WARMASTER

DIRECTIONS: This Interactive Public Domain Shareware Campaign Disk was designed to merge a storyline with especially created scenarios. To play, read the storyline and when instructed to play the game listed then continue reading It is very important not to read this storyline in its entirety. Let the story unfold itself as you play the games.

The shed was hot with stale and stagnant air. Dust motes floated lazily in and out of thin strips of sunlight that filtered down through the gaps in the roof planking above. Even now - in the midst of summer's sunlight reign - a fire was burning merrily beneath the pitch pot in the corner of the shed. Sounds suddenly interrupted the reverent atmosphere; footsteps - angry footsteps - approached the door. A tall, lanky figure entered the shed carrying a tool of his undesired profession. The intruder threw down the scythe and began kicking it savagely across the hard-packed earth floor.

"Too young? What does he know about being young? He's been tied to this farm all his life and hasn't been further than eight leagues away from it during that whole time! Too young...Hah!" The indignant anger being displayed was coming from Tolem Highstalk, son of Micah Highstalk and legacy to the Highstalk fortune...this consisting of a ramshackle farmhouse, one open-air shed that dripped rain water on the hay no matter how often the roof was patched, three pigs (the sow died last season), two cows and forty-five measures of the rockiest, most used up soil that ever chipped a plow blade.

"It's not fair!", moaned Tolem to the ill-fitting wood slats of the barn. "I don't want to be like him... I'll end up stuck on this dirt pile for the rest of my life! I want to go places and do things! What does he know about how I feel?" Tolem sat down on the grain sacks as hard as he could hoping they might split (although, in the back of his mind, he knew that he would be the one to clean it up!). The seams grated a bit in protest but held. "I bet Soolem isn't grubbing around in dirt or playing nursemaid to some smelly old sheep". The mention of Tolem's older brother brought a wistful longing to his eyes because he just knew that his brother was taking part in some great adventure like slaying Wyverns or saving damsels in distress... "especially the damsel part", he thought with a smile. Soolem was older than Tolem by five years and had not been seen on the farm for at least three of those. He had grown up on the farm like Tolem but at 15 decided that he was cut out for a far more interesting avocation in life. He had no idea what that life entailed, but it had to be superior to slopping pigs and digging rocks!

At any rate, one night Soolem tried to explain to his father how he felt. The explosion that followed separated father from son for all time. "So!" father shouted at him, "the farm isn't good enough for you, is that it?"

"No, Papa" replied Soolem, "But I know there's got to be more to life than what I've seen so far. I don't want to end up bent and broken over a plow...like you!" The words were never meant as an insult; at least Soolem's conscious mind never formulated them as such. But, sometimes the truth, when thrown in someone's face has all the impact of insult even though not possessing any of the intention. The silence that followed the statement was hot and stagnant. When the blow struck, it surprised even Micah. Thwack! Immediately, an angry red welt appeared on Soolem's cheek. Soolem stared at his father for what seemed like hours, then he made the statement that Tolem would remember for the rest of his life.

"Thank you Papa", offered Soolem with dripping sarcasm, "you've made my mind up for me." With those words, Soolem picked up his trailsack from his cot and silently walked through the door. Father stood watching...his large, gnarled hands hanging limply by his side.

Tolem jumped up and yelled at his father "Stop him, Papa, he's leaving!" He made for the door to shout after his brother but Micah's arms stopped and held him like a vise.

"It's better this way, son", Micah replied sadly. "Your brother has chosen his path."

That was the last time his brother was ever mentioned in the Highstalk household. Tolem thought of these past events while laying on his back with his feet propped up on the seed sacks. He thought about how he had blubbered for weeks following Soolem's unexpected departure and how he had sat on the front porch step for hours every evening hoping to see his brother walking up the dirt road towards home. It never happened. Soolem never returned home but all contact was not lost. Tolem occasionally received letters from his brother.

These short, one page, hastily scrawled notes of Soolem's continued existence found their meandering way to the Highstalk farm - usually by way of nomadic peddlers each demanding a copper or two for their postmaster services. Tolem never told his father about the letters since he was afraid that he might burn them, or even worse, ridicule their content. He kept them in his Treasure Box that was hidden within the pedestal beneath the pitch pot. The letters were wondrous things...tantalizing hints of adventure and strange, magical places Tolem never tired of reading and rereading them. His two favorites had to be pasted to parchment because the handling had caused them to nearly fall apart! It seemed that Soolem had found employment as a courier to the Lord High Counselor and as such traveled great distances to deliver messages to and from the various nobility. In preparation for the position, his Lordship had even sent Soolem to the WarMaster Academy to learn the art of swordsmanship! WarMaster Academy! The words flowed around the tongue like a fine wine. Here was where young men learned the art of weapons and fighting and was absolutely essential if one desired to improve one's station in life. Entrance to the various Academies was simple enough although extremely hazardous. Each Academy had a secret entrance that had to be found to gain admission to the school. Naturally, the way in was one-way only - once entered, you could not turn back! They were also guarded by an assortment of nasty entities; inside, one either prevailed or perished!

Tolem got up from his position of reverie and walked over to the pitch pot. The fumes rising from it stung his eyes and caused them to water. Tolem glanced at the pot with undisguised loathing. He had spent innumerable hours stirring the thick black goo and applying it to the farm animals' hooves to protect them from the rocky soil. He hated the job with a passion! At the base of the pot was an Ironwood pedestal, two planks of which were loose. Tolem pulled at the planks and reached inside to reverently remove the metal box that lay hidden there. Inside the box was Tolem's most revered treasures...his brother's letters! Tolem had finished three of the letters and was working on the fourth when an angry voice reached him from outside the shed.

"Tolem? Are you hiding in that shed again?" Tolem quickly stuffed the letters back in the box and replaced it in it's hiding place.

"I'm just stirring the pitch pot papa", he shouted to the figure outside. Quickly grabbing the long, wooden handle, Tolem began furiously beating the tar-like substance. The shed door banged open and Micah, his father, poked his head through.

"Well, get a move on boy. The cows and pigs still have to be fed and I want to start sowing the West field before sundown!"

Tolem replied meekly, "Yes papa, I'm done here anyway." He scraped the wooden handle clean and leaned it against the pedestal. Opening the shed door, Tolem took a last glance back at the pedestal and sighed loudly to himself before walking through the door and back into reality. The following morning dawned bright and blue over the Highstalk farm. The air was already warm and promised to get much warmer before the day's work was complete. At the morningfast table, Micah watched his remaining son eat the simple meal quietly with none of the usual chatter that normally occurred between them.

"Tolem", Micah began but stopped when the words refused to form. He tried again, "Tolem, please try to understand. It's not that I don't want you to try and improve your life, but leaving the farm would be the greatest mistake you ever made! There's nothing out there but misery and death for the likes of people like us. Here, at least, you have honest work and a frugal but secure life."

Tolem looked up from his meager meal and replied, "But how will I ever know for sure, papa? I mean how will I know if the farm is where I truly want to be if I never see or do anything else?" Micah rose from the table without saying a word. He picked up his dishes and carried them to the wash bucket and then turned around to look carefully at Tolem.

"Sometimes it's best to leave the unknown... unknown. You probably won't believe this but I too used to burn for adventure. Yet, I did do something about it." Micah returned to the table and looked down at the only part of his life that he felt was absolutely right and good...his son, Tolem. "Wait here." he said. Tolem watched as his father walked back to the south wall of the farmhouse and knelt down on the hard wooden floor. Using the dagger that he always kept with him, Micah pried the floor planks loose and reached inside and retrieved a long, narrow package. Tolem thought to himself as his father worked, that he wasn't the only one with a treasurehole! Micah slowly unwrapped the package with trembling fingers. As the item was unveiled. Tolem's eyes opened so wide, they might have simply fallen from his skull! Held lightly but professionally in Micah's hands was the most beautiful and deadly looking sword that Tolem had ever seen (truth being, it was the ONLY sword he had ever seen). Micah lay the magnificent weapon carefully on the table and stepped back as though he didn't wish to be too close to it.

Very quietly, almost in a whisper, Tolem spoke in awe, "Where did it come from, papa?"

Micah - never taking his eyes from the sword - said "It is mine. It was given to me by Lord Bucknear for certain services rendered." He said the words with obvious distaste. The sword was a marvel in workmanship. The pommel held flourishes of intricately wrought gold and silver and had gems imbedded throughout the handle to serve as a grip. The blade itself had what looked like arcane symbols etched along it's length that were difficult to focus on with the eyes. At the base of the blade was a curious stamped impression - it looked like a mountain with a door imbedded in the face. Surely, an enchanted weapon of the highest caliber! Tolem reached out to grasp the blade when Micah quickly pushed him back into the chair.

"Do not touch it!" he yelled sharply. "It does not like to be touched by anyone save it's master!" Tolem looked at his father as though he had gone mad. It was only a sword, after all...wasn't it?

Micah saw the expression of incomprehension on his son's face and tried to calm himself. Quietly he said "This sword is not what it seems, Tolem. It has a life of it's own and selects it's master according to it's own set of needs. Micah knew that he was confusing his son even further so he set about to tell him the story of how he and the blade became one. Tolem listened intently as his father weaved a tale of the greatest of adventures. Micah had left home while still a boy and set out to find his fortune. He had served as a mercenary in Lord Bucknear's army and had soon proven his skill on the battlefield. After being promoted to Captain of his Lordship's Rangers, Micah was given the task of securing the stronghold of the great sorcerer Pathias located at the base of Mount Doom in the Eastern territories. A great battle had raged for weeks with no clear victor on either side. Micah lead a small band of his best into the center of the mountain by way of a secret passageway and vanquished Pathias' minions in one fell swoop. The slaughter that ensued affected Micah to the point of throwing down his weapons and leaving the scene in disgust. He vowed never to fight again. After the battle, Micah was showered with accolades and given the sword of power by his Lordship himself! He packed the sword away and headed back to the family farm...there he met and married Tolem's mother and settled into a life of quiet solitude...forever trying to forget his bloody past.

The telling of this story seemed to drain Tolem's father while, at the same time, relieving some great burden from his shoulders. Tolem sat in silence, his mind whirling with reborn admiration for his father. A warrior! His papa? It was too much to believe, but that it was true was without question. The truth of it was written all over Micah's face. Micah looked up at his son and sighed heavily, "So you see Tolem, I know what's out there waiting for you. A wise man once said, 'Only a man who carries a sword has need for one'. That wise man was right."

With the story told, Micah became the farmer again. "You're finished with morningfast" he stated as though it wasn't obvious. "Get started on that West field..! I want it planted before the rains begin." Tolem rose from the table and headed for the door. As he reached it he stopped and turned towards his father.

"I understand you now, papa." It was all that needed to be said.

* * * * *

The work was hot and difficult. In order to plant the grain seeds properly, one had to pull a long wooden awl through the furrows about five feet at a time. You then stopped and pushed the seeds into the furrow, spacing them one inch apart, covering them with soil as you progressed. Today, Tolem didn't mind the work. His mind was repeating the story his father had told...examining every detail...committing it to memory. He understood what papa had been trying to tell him but that didn't erase his own personal dream. It just served to bring it into a much sharper focus. Adventure apparently was more than the heroic tales he tended to weave in his fantasies. One could get killed! Tolem was mulling this over in his mind when his attention was distracted by angry shouts coming from the direction of the farmhouse. He dropped the awl and strained his eyes trying to see what was going on. Suddenly, two tremendous explosions racked the air followed by the clanging of weapons against shields

"Papa!", he screamed knowing that he was too far away for anyone to hear. He started running across the furrows, stomping newly planted seeds deep into the ground. Smoke and flames billowed from the direction of the farmhouse looking very much like the funeral pyres that burned whenever someone from the township died and was buried. Tolem kept running until his breath was short and a furious pain emanated from his side.

When he was two-thirds the way home. Tolem stopped to ease the pain that tugged desperately at his chest. While he caught his breath he could see some sort of activity taking place by the shed. It looked like his father was fighting off two other men with the sword! Forcing his lungs to accept the pain, Tolem begun to run again. Micah twisted sharply away from the man with one eye, blocking his downward blow with the ringing of steel. As the second brigand thrust toward him for the kill, Micah swung upward, cleaving him from groin to sternum! One-eye barely glanced at his lost comrade before he himself was forced to defend against a bloody and excruciating demise. This man was no mere farmer, he thought! Only battlefield experience could teach such skill. Micah was definitely the better of the two swordsmen and was about to separate the man's head from his shoulders when a moist-sounding Thwump was heard. He looked down to see a quivered bolt protruding from his chest! He heard the words "Papa, No!", but they sounded worlds away and he was suddenly so tired...so tired! Micah's sword arm slowly dropped to his side. One-eye took this opportunity to swing his blade down and across Micah's wrist... removing sword and hand from further combat. Tolem watched as his father tumbled to the ground. The pain in his legs and chest was forgotten as he put on an additional burst of speed.

He headed for his father's prone figure but was intercepted by one-eye and held fast against odoriferous chainmail. "Don't worry yourself none, lad. Your pa took what don't belong to him and we was just gitten it back. Pity he had to fight, though. I'm normally a peace-loving man." One-eye said this with an evil glint in his eye, knowing the boy wouldn't believe a word of it. He then acted according to his character and slammed the pommel of his sword against the side of Tolem's head. Tolem slid from his grasp like a grain sack.

The man with the crossbow looked at one-eye reprovingly and said, "Kill the brat and be done with it!"

His partner stood looking at the two still figures and replied, "I done a lot of things in my life that I ain't so proud of Soliah, but killing unarmed boys ain't one of 'em. Now, shut yer face and start looking fer that scroll !"

Tolem awoke with a giant troll stomping on his head. For the first few minutes it was not possible for him to even open his eyes without nearly slipping back under that blanket of darkness. In time though, Tolem managed to sit up and look to his surroundings. The farmhouse and the shed were blackened shells with smoke still wisping from the charred timbers. All the animals were dead or dieing...the survivors bleating out moans of anguish. Looking down, Tolem saw his father lying in a heap next to him. He crawled over to him and cradled his papa's head in his arms, blood dripping to a pool in his lap.

"Papa?" he spoke quietly. Micah's eyes fluttered for a second then cleared.

"Tolem", he whispered, "the scroll is buried in the North field next to that pile of rocks. Take it to Lord Bucknear, he'll know what to do with it." A sudden, wet cough wracked Micah's chest and bloody froth appeared at his lips. In a few moments it passed leaving him weaker than ever.

"The farm is not safe any longer, you must leave. I never wanted this for you Tolem. My past has caught up with me and now it is your future. I'm sorry...so very sorry." Another coughing spasm hit Micah and after it was done, his eyes closed to all further pain and guilt. Carefully, Tolem set his father's head to the dirt. He cried for a long time and when the crying was done he spoke with a firm voice.

"I will avenge you papa...this I swear!" Tolem grasped his father's sword and raised it slowly above his head. His fingers and hand tingled as though he had touched a summer lightning bolt and as quickly stopped. Suddenly a presence made itself known to him in his mind; it spoke in a small but clear and powerful voice. "I am yours now, Master!"

PLAY QUEST # 1 NOW

The Academy at TURANDIN was behind him now. Lord Bucknear had been a gracious and garrulous host. They spent many hours into the summer evenings talking about Tolem's father...tales of heros and triumphs gained and lost. Tolem listened with all the rapture one could expect from a religious convert sitting attentively at the feet of his temple master. His Lordship explained how Captain Highstalk (He couldn t seem to refer to him as anything else) had taken the Scroll of Pathias to prevent it's falling into evil hands again. When Tolem asked why they simply had not destroyed it, His Lordship replied "Can't destroy something that isn't of this world, my boy." It was also explained to Tolem that had he known he was coming, His Lordship would have arranged a far more pleasant reception! "This is how we test all new acolytes to the Academies" he said. "Perhaps unintentionally, you have proven yourself a worthy prodigy of your father...he would have been proud!"

"I have heard of this 'One-eyed' rascal. He is a Captain of Pathias' spy network...a most unsavory fellow. Has a certain moral code, though...won't kill unarmed women and children. Fortunate for you!"

Lord Bucknear informed Tolem that the Academy at SOLAHNA might have more information about the whereabouts of the 'one-eyed' man. He offered to write a letter of introduction so that the gauntlet similar to the one he had just traversed could be avoided. Tolem thanked His Lordship for his concern but, if he was ever to gain the skills necessary to exact his revenge, he must accomplish what all other acolytes to the Academies had to go through...and then to surpass them! Lord Bucknear smiled and said "Just like the Captain would have stated it. Well then, if it's a fight you're looking for, then at least allow me the privilege of sending a couple of my best men to help you in this 'noble' quest. Your father's ghost would haunt me for the rest of my days were I to allow you to journey alone."

Tolem considered these words and at last replied "This vengeance I seek is for myself alone, however some companions would be welcome on such a long trek. I accept your offer with gratitude, my Lord."

"Fantastic!" His Lordship remarked, "I imagine you'll be wanting to start out first thing so it might be best to introduce you to your fellow warriors tonight." Lord Bucknear stood up and headed for the door with Tolem in tow. As his hand reached the door handle His Lordship hesitated. Turning to the young warrior, he said in a low, serious voice, "You've chosen a hard path, lad. Since you're determined on this course of vengeance, and I do not berate you for it, you must always remember the creed of a WarMaster; Destroy thine enemies, but recognize the innocent." With this said, Lord Bucknear removed one of the many rings that ornamented his hands and gave it to Tolem. It bore the emblem of the sword and shield - the mark of a WarMaster!

PLAY QUEST #2 NOW

Tolem sat crosslegged at the bow of the ship applying healing potion to his numerous cuts and bruises. The battle to enter the enchanted vessel had been bloody and furious...the undead trying to halt them at every step. The Undead! Never would have Tolem believed that such creatures existed if he had not seen and fought to the death with them himself. Disgustingly vile, the zombies were the worst. Their rank, rotting skin hanging in tatters from bones that long since should have been committed to the worms. Tolem shuddered just thinking about it. Tolem tossed the empty potion bottle over the side and stood up to get a better look at this remarkable ship. Possessing no sail or rudder of any kind, the ship unerringly made it's way to the island at a respectable speed. The grating on the deck spoke of further room somewhere below but they could find no way down into those holds and were not all that anxious to explore further at any rate. Looking at his companions, Tolem was amazed at the strength and durability of the two knights. Several times during the battle in the town, Tolem was positive that either or both of them were wounded to the point of death, but each time they rose to fight again. It was most fortunate that they found healing potions in that deserted building or they all would be lying prone on this enchanted deck!

Sir Lyon was leaning over the railing emptying his stomach into the blue water; he was a warrior - not a seaman! Sir Morgan, watching his companion, smiled. He walked over to Tolem and stood next to him at the prow. "Lyon seems quite taken with this ocean life." he remarked with a smirk... loud enough for Sir Lyon to hear.

Wiping his face with his tunic, Sir Lyon replied, "Man was never meant to be around more water than is required for bathing! It is through no fault of mine that thy father was a fisherman, Morgan. Someday I must needs take you to the silver mines where I grew up. We will then see how thy humour abates in the darkness of a moss cavern!" The good-natured bantering of the two knights was a welcome relief to the boredom of the voyage. Tolem was growing more thankful by the minute that Lord Bucknear had seen fit to send these two brave fighters to assist him. Looking out over the bow he could just make out the shoreline of the island. What maze of entrance awaited him there? he thought. No matter. Whatever feats were required, he would perform them gladly. Revenge was food and drink to him and he intended on supping in great quantities. Gripping the pommel of his sword and feeling the familiar tingle, Tolem stood staring at nothing in front of him and at everything inside him. One face in his mind stared back... and smiled as though it knew he was coming. The one-eyed man beckoned!

PLAY QUEST #3 NOW

The enchanted vessel lay moored next to immense rocky crags that rose for at least a thousand feet straight up. How the ship knew when it was to stop and weigh anchor was an unsolvable mystery as no human hand guided it's passage. Next to the hull leading to shore were coral shoals that appeared to be sheared off at the water line - perfect for use as a walkway to the beach. The deck was quiet. The companions still resting from the long and arduous fight through the obstacles of SOLAHNA. Tolem was the first to awaken... stretching aching and bruised muscles as he rose to his feet. The two knights, sensing the movement on deck, followed suit.

"Well now, Lyon" spoke Sir Morgan, "is this or is this not far more entertaining than training Acolytes at TURANDIN?"

"I know not about it's entertainment value" replied Sir Lyon, "but as an exercise in battle procedures, it speaks well." Sir Lyon was an accomplished warrior but was a complete novice at evaluating humor.

Tolem examined his trailsack and made the announcement; "I think it's time we replenished our supplies, friends. We only have two days' of rations left." As the words left his mouth, a blue glow appeared at the stern of the ship enveloping all in it's cool radiance. A voice sounded from the glow like booming thunder.

"Know this, foolish warriors, your quest is doomed to fail. The one you seek is protected by Pathias, greatest of Sorcerers. As you attack him, you attack me! I do not tolerate insolence! Turn back now and be spared or seek me and be destroyed! The choice is yours." As the last syllable was voiced, the blue glow evaporated into a shower of sparks and an explosion of light. Then all was still again.

Sir Morgan was the first to speak. "It appears, Tolem, that your quest is evolving into something greater than vengeance!"

Tolem looked into the eyes of each warrior and saw no fear, only determination similar to his own. Lifting the trailsack over his shoulder, Tolem said in a strong, clear voice, "We better get ashore before darkness falls."

PLAY QUEST #4 NOW

Tolem sat beneath the shade of an immense Oak tree and was carefully writing in his journal the events leading to his present location in the grove of the Lady of the Lake. He had only just begun to keep a diary of his travels on the insistence of Sir Morgan. The knight had argued that a proper expedition should have a scribe to put to pen the trials and tribulations of it's members and since no such person belonged to the party, it was then the leader's responsibility to assume the role. Tolem did not look upon himself as a leader but was reminded by both knights that if not for him, there would be no expedition! He had learned some months before that it was pointless to debate such technicalities with these proud and stubborn men so he simply shrugged his shoulders and began to write daily into the diary. The companions had been resting for a week in the grove of the Lady upon her insistence and, consequently, were now glad they did. All were healthy and strong and ready for the next leg of their quest. All except, perhaps, Sir Lyon. In the short time they had been there, Sir Lyon had become quite enamored with the Lady. It was he who discovered that her real name was Melissa and that she had come to the tiny island to seclude herself from the evils of the outside world. Her home and family had been destroyed by minions of the sorcerer Pathias when she was a child and she had been forced to flee for her life!

The island grove was a refuge against all evil beings... it having been magically protected centuries before by some long forgotten sorcerer. It was her home. A few days earlier, Lady Melissa had sat among the companions and spoke of the Caves of Night - a tale of slaughter and pure, unimpeded evil. "The Caves of Night were not always referred to as such", she reflected. "Once, years before, the caves were known as Dwarvenhome and had been home to thousands of industrious Dwarves. "Within those dark mines, beautiful implements of wrought metal emerged - swords and shields of the highest quality, bejeweled furnishings and exquisitely constructed armour were the standard by which all others were measured. Nobles and knights throughout the continent were considered well-equipped only if in possession of an item of Dwarvenhome manufacture. Indeed, Tolem's own blade had the stamp of Dwarvenhome upon it...the symbol of the mountain with the iron door imbedded into it's &ce. Then, one day, a small party of ill-clothed, ill-mannered fighters arrived at the main entrance seeking food and temporary shelter. As with all strangers, the Dwarves invited them inside for rest and refreshment. Their kindness was repaid with the treachery of exploding orbs and the twang of crossbows! The gates to Dwarvenhome were flung open to a small army of warriors and soon after, Dwarvenhome was littered with the bodies of the Dwarven race! After this massacre, all exports from the mines ceased. People began to disappear from the roads, ransom notes arrived at nobles' homes and rumours surfaced concerning tales of torture and other foul deeds within the ancient mountain. Dwarvenhome soon earned a reputation as a place to avoid at all costs!"

With the telling of this sad tale, Lady Melissa's eyes filmed over with glistening tears and she was unable to continue. Sir Lyon moved to her side and gently placed his arm around her shoulder, holding her tightly until the sobbing was past. Tolem and Sir Morgan looked at each other as the same thought crossed their minds. Each rose to their feet and wandered off to attend to other, more pressing details leaving Sir Lyon and Lady Melissa to their own private consolations. Over the next few days, Sir Lyon and Melissa spent many hours walking through the cool shade of the giant Oaks - speaking to each other in low, conspiratorial voices. Tolem and Sir Morgan were left to their own amusements having been totally ignored by the two lovers. Having lost the trail of 'One-eye' curing their convalescence in the Grove, the companions decided that the Caves of Night was as good a place to start looking as any. Perhaps a score for the slain Dwarves could be settled at the same time. At any rate, it was time to move on. As the party left the entrance to the Grove, Sir Lyon turned for a last look at Melissa.

Tears flowed freely from her eyes even though a smile was upon her face. Sir Lyon promised in his strong, even voice, "I will be back for thee, my love! On this thou may depend!" Then the great oak door slowly closed on well oiled hinges and the Grove was silent once again.

PLAY QUEST #6 NOW

Sir Morgan, swinging his broadsword in great arcs, slowly backed away from the three warriors facing him. None of these swordsmen was his equal but greater numbers had been known to suffice before and it was best to play the defensive until an opening presented itself. That opening suddenly appeared. One of the three glanced behind his shoulder for an instant to see how his comrades fared and that proved to be a fatal error. Sir Morgan screamed a battle cry and jumped forward, impaling the man in the chest. Jerking the sword from the grievous wound, the knight continued the motion for 180 degrees and removed bandit two's head from his shoulders! The third man decided that somewhere else might be a much better place to be and started to run for the secret door that had revealed itself earlier in the melee. Tolem was waiting for such an opportunity and dispatched him with a wicked slice across his midsection - spilling entrails on the stone floor like wet, grey snakes. As quickly as it started, the encounter ended with no sound remaining save for the heavy breathing of the three companions.

Sir Morgan spoke as he wiped the blood from his sword on the prone body. "Me-thinks the festivities for the evening have reached their conclusion!"

Sir Lyon turned to him with a look bordering on disgust "Ever with the wit, aren't thou Morgan? Hasn't thy blade tasted enough blood for one day?"

Still wiping his sword on the tunic of a dead bandit, Sir Morgan shrugged his broad shoulders and replied "I didn't think that these fellows were up to a game of 'Dragons and Crones', Lyon. Did you?"

No retort was forthcoming as their attention was directed towards the two prisoners they had rescued during their exploration of the caves. The first man was obviously a mage with his torn and filthy black robe while the second was more of a mystery. His tunic looked the sort to fit under a layer of chainmail but his physique spoke more of a nobleman. Both of the captives were unconscious due to excessive torture at the hands of their 'hosts'. Tolem brought forth a bottle of healing potion from his trailsack and began administering aid to the unfortunate twosome. "We don't have enough potion for complete healing but this should be enough to get them walking again" he commented. Sure enough, both men groaned and began stretching their newly healed arms and legs. The 'Nobleman' was the first to open his eyes and evaluate his surroundings.

Noting Tolem's face first, he said "You don't look like a torturemaster!"

Tolem laughed and replied, "It was never my chosen profession, no. May I ask who YOU are, sir?"

"Name's Farwatcher or, at least, that's what I've been called in more fortunate times. Right now, you can just call me extremely grateful!" Tolem helped the man to his feet and had to support him until his dizziness passed. Sir Morgan was assisting the Mage while Farwatcher spoke of their situation. "Tau'Ling - that's my morose comrade over there - and I were heading for the Southern territories when we were kidnapped off the road and taken here to be held for ransom. At least that was the plan before they found out that we weren't worth anything to anyone. Next thing we knew, we were being fitted for the rack! Friendly place, wouldn't you say?" Tolem announced that since all of them had suffered various wounds from the battle and the healing potion was in short supply, they should head for the cleric's temple in the forest of Walrath and restore themselves before moving on. Farwatcher and Tau'Ling were welcome to join them if they so wished. Gathering their equipment and remaining supplies, the five companions set out through the secret passageway and headed for the temple.

PLAY QUEST #7 NOW

Master Cleric Rorun was attending to Sir Lyon's wounds with herbs and poultices and speaking to the party simultaneously, "I can appreciate your quest to give justice to this 'One-eye' and his master but as a Cleric of Shengali I am sworn to never seek violence on my fellow man - no matter how much he deserves it. I do hope you understand?" Tolem said that he did and thanked the master for his healing services.

"I can tell you one thing, though," continued Master Rorun "Mount Doom lies beyond the Plains of Alphar - across the Magenta River. But, the only way to the river is by way of the 'Sorcerer's Keep... A very bad place by any standard! You are welcome to take any of the supplies we have on hand to aid you." Sir Morgan walked into the room holding some parchment that he had found while routing the last of the brigands. Master Rorun saw them and said "Oh yes, the Treaty of Rillon. Those papers were brought to us by a courier of the Lord High Counselor some months ago for safekeeping." Tolem snapped his head around at the mention of the Lord High Counselor and asked Master Rorun what this courier's name was. Well, it was some time ago but I believe he said his name was Highhawk or Stywalk or something like that. Why, do you know him?"

Tolem replied "His name was Soolem Highstalk and he is my brother. Do you know where he was headed?"

"I seem to remember that he said something about heading East to deliver a parcel to Lord Myels. He seemed to be anxious to arrive... as though someone was trying to stop him from delivering it. I'm sorry, but that's all I know."

"We must be leaving now Master Rorun. Thank you again for all your help and don't forget to lock those front doors until you're sure of who or what is outside!"

"That we will, friend Tolem. I hope that you find your brother safe and free from harm's way! May Shengali look down upon you with favor!"

PLAY QUEST #8 NOW

Captured! One second the party was free of the Troll village - heading East towards Surrillon - the next they were surrounded by Troll warriors angrily shaking their axes at them! Sir Morgan slowly drew his sword from it's scabbard and prepared for one last glorious encounter when Tolem placed his hand upon his arm."Don't, Morgan!" warned Tolem. "There at least three hundred of them. We wouldn't stand a chance. Besides, they would have attacked by now if that was their intention. They have something else in mind. Let's just wait and see what happens and grab our chance when it comes."

Muttering to himself, Morgan sheathed his sword just as a large, ugly Troll pushed through the crowd and stood arrogantly before the companions.

"Chief want talk you!" announced big ugly in a barely understandable growl. "We go now... see chief!" With this said, the leader pointed toward the village with his war axe and gestured to the party to follow him. Chief Nobuga was easily the largest and ugliest Troll in the entire Village. He walked from his hut looking more like a short, fat dragon than anything else. The companions were in front of their escort of Troll warriors - a dozen of which suddenly forced them to their knees in supplication to Nobuga.

"You kill many my warriors," bellowed the chief. "Strong, brave fighters make eat good... big honor!" Seeing the confused looks on their faces, Farwatcher felt obligated to translate.

"Fat boy here says that since we fought so well, he felt the only 'honorable' thing to do is to have us all for dinner."

Tolem spoke first, "Tell the chief that we appreciate the invitation but that we have important business elsewhere."

"You misunderstand. He wants to HAVE us for dinner! We're to be the main course on tonight's menu!"

"Oh." replied Tolem as he looked around for a way out of their predictament.

Tired of all the conversation, Chief Nobuga shouted "Enough talk!" Looking at the Troll scout leader, he said "Take to hut. Make pots ready for cook!"

The party was escorted to a ramshackle hut in the center of the village and locked inside. Sir Lyon spoke when all was quiet outside the door, "Why didn't they take our weapons?"

"Trolls aren't known for their intelligence, Sir Knight!" replied Farwatcher. "They probably forgot about them when we were talking to the chief. It's amazing that the race has not gone extinct by now!"

Tolem, pushing at the door, said "Well, this door's solid enough. We'll have to wait until they come for us and then rush them. When we get outside, everyone make for the Southeast comer of the village. If we can get across the stream, we can probably lose them." No one else could think of a better plan so they all sat down on the dirt floor to get some rest before they had to move. Two hours later they heard the door being unlocked and they moved into position.

PLAY QUEST #10 NOW

"Someone's coming" announced Sir Lyon as he strained his eyes looking up the road. Squinting into the rising sun, Lyon concentrated on identifying the running man. "It's Farwatcher! He appears to be in somewhat of a hurry."

Farwatcher arrived at the party but could not speak for several moments until he caught his breath. Finally, talking between gasps of air, he told them of what he saw at Surrillon. "Tried to find the secret entrance into the main hall but now it won't matter" he spoke breathlessly. "Surrillon's been sacked!" Audible gasps of disbelief puffed from his audience. Continuing, Farwatcher said, "Signs of explosions are all around the main buildings. Must have happened a few days ago 'cause all the fires seemed to be out. Couldn't see any life, though I was too far away to really catch any detail."

Tolem spoke the word that everyone was thinking; "Pathias! My brother would have stopped there before continuing on to the East. We have to see if he left any messages that will tell us where he is."

"What about the 'One-eye' man? I thought we were going after him?" grumbled Tau'Ling.

"You are all free to go where you wish" replied Tolem. "I must find my brother first before I can seek my vengeance!"

"Sir Morgan spoke for all of them when he said, "Doesn't make any difference to me where we go. Just so I can avoid going back to Turandin and boredom!"

Tolem studied each face intently, looking for any signs of disagreement. To a man, they all gave him a perceptible nod as his glance met theirs.

"So be it!" he murmured. Drawing his sword from it's well-worn scabbard, Tolem led the party down the road towards Surrillon.

PLAY QUEST #11 NOW

"Soolem!" cried Tolem with tears running freely down his cheeks. "What did those scum do to you?" The two brothers were embracing each other fiercely although Soolem was weak from loss of blood and from the many cuts that Pathias' cutthroats had inflicted upon him.

"You're looking good, kid. Fighting seems to agree with you, eh?"

"Soolem", Tolem began in a solemn voice, "Papa's dead."

Soolem looked into his brother's eyes and then slowly sat down with a vacant stare on his face. "What happened?", he asked quietly.

"Some of Pathias' men came to the farm one day looking for the Sorcerer's scroll. They killed papa when he wouldn't tell them where it was. He was a great warrior, you know."

"Yes, I know. Everywhere I went, I heard stories about him and his adventures. Who would have ever guessed that our papa..." Soolem's voice trailed off. "I treated him so badly, Tolem. He deserved better." Straightening his shoulders, Soolem looked into his brother's eyes again and said, "Pathias has to be dealt with... permanently!"

"My thoughts exactly!" replied Tolem. "But first we have to get you healed and rested... then there's a few people I want you to meet."

Tolem placed his hands on his brother's shoulders. "It's so good to see you again, Soolem. I just wish I had better news to bring you."

Soolem crossed his arms over his chest and placed his hands on top of his brother's. "I may not have been the best son a father ever had, Tolem; but I will not allow his death to go unpunished!"

"Pathias will regret the day he ever heard the name 'Highstalk'!"

PLAY QUEST #13 NOW

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Tips for playing "War Master" from Legends newsletter.

War Master was designed a bit differently than other campaign disks of this nature in that it's main objective was to bestow knighthood to moderately successful Paladins while providing a captivating (I hope!) fantasy realm for people's minds to explore. War Master is a collection of fifteen scenarios - each graphically depicting a major encounter or turning point in the story line. This walk-through will take you step-by step through the first five scenarios with the remainder being covered in successive issues of Legends. I will try to cover each scenario as thoroughly as possible without giving away any of the surprises that pop up here and there. In order to enjoy War Master to it's fullest, I highly recommend that you complete the campaign disk that came with your subscription of Legends called Quest disk 01 (pretty original title, huh?). Anyway, you should have your Paladin to an accuracy level of about 40-50. Seeing and detecting should be at least 35. Any numbers less than these and you'll have a heck of a time getting through the first scenario! With the preliminaries taken care of, let's take a look at the first scenario:

GAME 01

This is actually one of the tougher games on the campaign disk. The map is large and everything is rather spread out. You begin at the Highstalk farmhouse with nothing more than your father's sword, some exploding orbs and a heart full of revenge! Nothing like a cool head to start a perilous quest, right? Right outside the farm is a crossroads. Decision time! You can go North and you can go South. Either way will get you to your destination but North is more roundabout and encounters are more frequent. Hey! you did want to become a Knight didn't you? You can't make it by taking the milk-run route !

Try to make the bad guys come to you over the worst terrain possible. Make them eat up their movement points instead of yours. If in doubt, always back up three squares from a sighting so they can't see you. The War Master academy can only be accessed from a secret entrance located in the mountains just South of the very center of the map. It's guarded, of course, but the guard may be waiting for you on the lower level so rest up on the stairs before descending. Once you're in the passageway, watch out for guardians such as ghosts and zombies. Ghosts are generally no problem but zombies can be real nasty. As a matter of fact, a zombie awaits you at the end of the passageway - save an orb for him. At the end of the secret tunnel lies the way up to the WarMaster academy. You'll enter a room at the Southeast section of the main building. Move to the Northeast part of that room and after you - he'll waste his movement points over the grating and then you can get him. Note: when walking over the grating throughout the academy, only take a few steps at a time before resting.

Movement points are used up rapidly and you don't want to be caught in front of a bad dude at the end of your turn! Go out the door and move North until you reach the doorway. Stand there for a move to recover your strength, then go forward two steps, open the West door and go back to the South doorwey to rest again. This little "Two-step" will keep you from getting killed by the guard in the Northern passageway. When fully rested, head out the door you just opened and put some distance between you and that guard by heading due West as far as possible. Remember, make the baddies use up THEIR movement points!

After checking out the veapons room (Pick-up the crossbow and bolts), go East through another passagevey that leads to the training area. There are two guard5 there so before entering, make sure you have maximum movement points. The best way to do this is to drop all the heavy stuff you can just before you shift-click on the "next" icon, then pick them up again on your next move. Takeout the two guards with the crossbow and go on up and meet "His Lordship".

GAME 02

This quest takes you and your companions to the ghost ship for transport to the "Isle of Solahna". The first part of this scenario you have to watch for mountain trolls and road bandits. The bandits are the more deadly of the two so I recommend using the "Frog-jump " technique wherever possible. You're probably wondering what this technique is, aren't you? I really shouldn't tell 'cause it was passed down to me from generations of avid adventurers and I'm under a "death-oath"' to never revea1 the secret! Naaaaa! You'll never buy that one! Actually, it's about six months old and I figured it out after dying four hundred and eighteen times vhile playing BREACH!

The technique is simple: when moving in an uncharted direction, move one man three paces forward and stop. Select another trooper and move three spaces past him and stop. Keep doing this until you run out of movement points or encounter a bad guy. When you see your first villain, move all men back three spaces from the encounter location and rest. Build up enough movement points to waste him and continue on. Whatever you do, don't leave your Paladin in a vulnerable location! Okay, back to the scenario. Follow the road East around the mountains watching out for bandits at the "bend". More trolls to discuss philosophy with on the South...make sure you pick up the healing potion at the well. Moving South on the road, go to the left of the first building you come to - this is the one that holds some healing potions and orbs. None of the other buildings are of any real use except as scenery. Once you fetch your supplies, move East through town towards the docks. A few ghosts are waiting for you (it IS a ghostown, after all!, but they should present no great problem to a hardy adventurer such as yourself, right? Your real challenge lies waiting on the ship...zombies! The best way to tackle them is to wait on the wharf, away from the boarding brow, and let them come to you. Make sure you have LOTS of movement points!

GAME 03

Okay, you've taken your sea voyage, gotten healed up and are now at the "Dock of the Bay". Once you leave the ship, there are again two ways to go...East and North. Go East if you went to appreciate the scenic beauty and to do a little "monster whomping". North will take you in the direction you'll need to go to gain entrance to Solahna. The only encounters along the North road are trolls so do the Adventurer's Two-Step, as explained earlier. The road will take you to a valley in the mountains containing a teleporter to the Academy. Once in the confines of the Academy, the serious fighting begins! Take the stairs down to the next level and assemble all three warriors around the foot of the stairs before venturing out. Let one of the knights (not your Paladin) be your pointman - go South, then West. Park the pointman one square South of the first passageway encountered and wait for the Sorcerer to try to stun him. When your turn pops up again, nail the Sorcerer with either or both of your remaining troops (Try and use your Paladin as much as possible without putting him in too much risk. It's the only way to reach knighthood). Go get the crossbow and bolts from the room to the Northwest before venturing any further. Give the bow to dude with the greatest number of movement points and park him one square South of the Southern passageway (Whew). Rest up and walk three steps South. Kill the bad guys using the bow (I love this part, don't you?). Have your Paladin take the Wand of Detecting and start practicing. You can now venture all the way down the East passageway without interference... after all, how many guards can this place have, anyhow? The South corridor takes you to the teleporter out of here and the North one leads you to a room with healing potions. If you need 'em, go get 'em! You'll eventually get to the stairs up and to the next teleporter. Take the teleporter and you'll see some stairs... that's right! Take 'em up to the next level! There's only a few opponents on this level so I'll let you play it out for yourself You DO want to do some of this for yourself, don't you?

GAME 04

Except for a TON of mountain trolls, this scenario is pretty straight forward. You have to get from the ship landing to the lake through a mountain pass. No problem! Straight West from the ship, just before you actually enter the pass, is a small valley. You'll really want to go there before you continue on. Trust me! Would I lie to you? Note: Use both your Ring of Seeing and your Wand of detection. The ring will show you the path and the wand will keep the heavies off your back! Plus, you'll build up these skills which are so necessary in making Knight!

GAME 05

This is a fun one! You begin at the Northeast shore of the Druid's lake. Your first, most immediate problem is the two Trolls that are in your "Blast-off" area. One Troll is five squares directly North and the second is four steps slightly Northeast. Use your Paladin for the one to the East...the other guys can handle the one to the North. The map for this scenario is of a large, oval lake surrounded by a shoreline with an island smack dab to the middle. The trick is to get to that island while still breathing!

From your start location, there are two ways to travel.. Northwest and South. Northwest is good if you like to swim - South is better. Use the ring to get the "Lay of the land" before venturing out. As you move South, look for some stepping-stones that lead to the island. Make sure you use your wand frequently because there's lots of evil puppies trying to stop you! Once you reach the stepping-stones, you'll really need to watch your step. The stones require four movement points each so it's easy to run out while in an "embarrassing" position! While following the stones to the island, keep heading in a northerly direction. There are several off shoots to other areas but they only lead to dead ends (However, one leads to some healing potions so you might want to explore a little!). The island itself is free from bad guys and is very restful so I'll leave you there to enjoy the trees and flowers before we do battle again next issue!


