The Life Guard: Difference between revisions

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{{inhota}}{{campaign navigational box|hota=expanded|allin=expanded}}
{{inhota}}{{campaign navigational box|hota=expanded|allin=expanded}}
{{scenarioTest
{{CampaignScenario
| scenario      = The Life Guard
| scenario      = The Life Guard
| description    = Dargem must defend Kilgor from the forces of Erathia and Bracada for 3 months. If Kilgor falls, the game is over. The maximum level of heroes is 18. After winning, Dargem will proceed to the next scenario along with the Pendant of Holiness.
| description    = Dargem must defend Kilgor from the forces of Erathia and Bracada for 3 months. If Kilgor falls, the game is over. The maximum level of heroes is 18. After winning, Dargem will proceed to the next scenario along with the Pendant of Holiness.
Line 6: Line 6:
| size          = L
| size          = L
| source        = hota
| source        = hota
| victory        = Survive Time (84 days) or Defeat All Enemies.
| victory        = Survive Until Time Expires (84 days) or Defeat All Enemies.
| loss          = Lose Hero [[Kilgor|<span style="color:#{{Gold 2}}">Kilgor</span>]] the [[Barbarian|<span style="color:#{{Gold 2}}">Barbarian</span>]].
| loss          = Lose Hero {{gl|Kilgor}} the {{gl|Barbarian}}.
| allies        = {{purple}}{{tan}}
| allies        = {{purple}}{{tan}}
| enemies        = {{red}}{{blue}}
| enemies        = 1: {{red}}{{blue}}
| difficulty    = Normal
| difficulty    = Normal
| bonus          = {{BonusCr|Wolf Rider|17|loc=Gruezak}}{{BonusCr|Stormbird|8|loc=Dargem}}{{BonusR|Gold|2500}}
| bonus          = {{BonusCr|Wolf Rider|17|loc=Gruezak}}{{BonusCr|Stormbird|8|loc=Dargem}}{{BonusR|Gold|2500}}
| carry          = {{Hn|Dargem|noname=}} {{An|Pendant of Holiness}}
| carry          = {{Hn|Dargem|noname=}}{{Hn|Murdoch|noname=}} {{An|Pendant of Holiness|noname=}}
| max_lvl        = 18
| max_lvl        = 18
| cback          = hota ai 2
| cback          = hota ai 2
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== Prologue ==
== Prologue ==
<!---{{cvid|HotA 1.7.0-Data-HotA vid-ROGERA-bik-ROGERA|thumbtime=0:00|float=left}}--->
{{cvid|Allin2|thumbtime=0:00|float=left}}
{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Dirt, mess, and folly. The very things I abhor and strive to stomp out wherever I go are bound to become staples of my life for the coming months. Oh, the sacrifices a man has to make to reemerge as the top choice for jobs no one but a true artist of delicate business can handle. You might think I am here to enlighten these dim barbarians about the health hazards that come from picking ears with a loaded pistol—and your guess will be wrong. I have come to do a favor to someone who may soon become the ruler of half a continent. A favor remembered for a lifetime.
{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Dirt, mess, and folly. The very things I abhor and strive to stomp out wherever I go are bound to become staples of my life for the coming months. Oh, the sacrifices a man has to make to reemerge as the top choice for jobs no one but a true artist of delicate business can handle. You might think I am here to enlighten these dim [[barbarian]]s about the health hazards that come from picking ears with a loaded pistol—and your guess will be wrong. I have come to do a favor to [[Kilgor|someone who may soon become the ruler of half a continent]]. A favor remembered for a lifetime.


{{clear|both}}
{{clear|both}}


== Scenario ==
=== Timed events ===
{{TEheader}}
{{TErow| 7 | AI Resources | freq = 7 | loc={{red}}{{blue}} (AI)|effect=+10000 {{Gold}} [[Gold]], +20 {{Wood}} [[Wood]], +20 {{Ore}} [[Ore]], +10 {{Mercury}} [[Mercury]], +10 {{Sulfur}} [[Sulfur]], +10 {{Crystal}} [[Crystal]], +10 {{Gem}} [[Gems]]}}
{{TErow| 1 | Day 1.1 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 250:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: This was probably the day after which I began to loathe myself even worse than after my ill-fated theft of the [[Helmet of Anduran|Helmet]].<p>It all started with [[Stella]] meeting me at the pre-agreed place, handing me a bag of ducats and saying:<p>[[Stella]]: "Excellent work, Mister [[Dargem]]! My masters are pleased with your success."<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Glad to hear it, my lady," I nodded politely. "And now, I would like to hear more about the expedition you mentioned..."<p>[[Stella]]: "Nice of you to remember that," [[Stella]] smiled broadly. It seemed to me as though smiling was her professional skill. She had definitely mastered the art of answering any manner of a question with one. "If you still want to take part in the expedition, then there is one more task for you to do..."<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Wait a minute, good lady, we didn't agree on this!"<p>[[Stella]]: "That much is true," she sighed. "You have the right to refuse. I must say, however, that this mission is extremely important to my masters. And likewise for you."<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "How so?" I inquired, squinting and looking her in the eye.<p>[[Stella]]: "The young [[barbarian]] chieftain [[Kilgor]]," Stella said softly. "Perhaps you've already heard of him—an unsavory character through and through... He recently spread the word that he is in dire need of mercenaries. He tried to raid [[Bracada]], but ended up getting trapped. Now he needs a hand to break out. And [[Kilgor]] is willing to pay anything to get help. Do you understand what I'm getting at?" The young woman's eyes flashed, and she turned to the sea.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Hard not to. You want to help this savage out so that he will finance the expedition," I hazarded a guess.<p>[[Stella]]: "Correct, as always, Mister [[Dargem]]."}}
{{TErow| 1 | Day 1.2 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 251:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: And so I agreed to become the captain of a unit that should help [[Kilgor]] get out of his predicament. Well! I hear he can't stand mercenaries, but things are going from bad to worse for him, and he hardly has any choice. My men and I will approach from the sea and land to support the forces defending [[Fort Wildblade]], the barbarian chieftain's headquarters. He was generous enough to placed an auxiliary fort at my disposal and even sent me something like a "liaison officer"—a [[Gruezak|pig-faced dolt]] with a nonsensical name that starts with "G". I think. This shambling mound of lard looks like a brigand through and through. Well, if anything, at least he can procure his own supplies for his rabble, even if by robbery.<p>The combined forces of [[Erathia]] and [[Bracada]] are advancing from the north. Our task is to contain them, and then to overturn and defeat them. Darn it, I'm a traveler, mage, and collector, not a warlord! I already tried this role once, and I didn't enjoy fighting regular troops at all.<p>Right now, my biggest concern is not so much the life of the filthy brute, [[Kilgor]], but rather the prospect of letting down my employers. My reputation, which I had barely begun to revive, would be shattered forever, and, worse still, I would never find out about the expedition [[Stella]]'s masters are planning. Well, how's that for an incentive to try and play [[Tarnum]]—or some other mythical military genius. I've acted on worse.}}
{{TErow| 4 | Day 4 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 236:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: I have received disturbing news. [[Bracada]]'s troops are led by the legendary [[Solmyr]]. He is a powerful [[genie]] and a very close servant of [[Gavin Magnus]] himself. I wouldn't enjoy meeting him on the battlefield!<p>Maybe [[Kilgor]]'s thugs could keep him at bay? Ugh. Dreaming sure feels nice—it's just a pity that dreams so rarely come true.}}
{{TErow| 8 | Day 8 | From an unsent letter by [[Gruezak]]:<p>{{H|Gruezak|0=}}: So far, I've managed to play this [[pirate]] like a fiddle. For the kind of "been there, seen it" adventurer figure he's trying to pull, he's surprisingly unobservant, or maybe just too arrogant to pay attention to things going on beyond the tip of his nose. I managed, for example, to convince him that the disassembled [[ballista]] I brought with me was actually parts of a mechanism designed to turn a whole [[Gorgon]] roast on a spit.<p>[[Uncle Bof]], I am of the opinion that [[Dargem]] figuring out who I really am is not a risk to consider. I can act freely around him, while he is convinced I am plundering the neighborhood for provisions and any other goods that are not nailed down. And if it turns out that he is unreliable... I remember your lessons well enough, old man. No person, no problem.}}
{{TErow| 9 | Day 9 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 255:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Today, [[Gruezak]] delivered a message from [[Kilgor]] himself:<p>{{H|Kilgor|0=}}: "Hireling! The Lord of [[Krewlod]] is addressing you! The [[Erathia]]ns and the spellweavers took me by surprise; that much you know. I am confident in my power, but the enemies outnumber me, and they have vile magicks on their side! I therefore command you: render all possible assistance to my forces and make sure that the enemy's shock troops do not penetrate my fortress!<p>I know your type well; people like you have no honor. You hired blades will happily stab your employer in the back if someone gives you a better deal. We're both grown men, and we understand that, don't we? I'll have a caravan of gold and supplies sent out—to secure my rear, not because I really like you. Under other circumstances, I'd love to see what color your guts are. Good luck!"<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Can't say I'm surprised. What else can you expect from a [[barbarian]] chieftain? A confession of love?}}
{{TErow| 11 | Day 11 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 256:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: [[Kilgor]]e's spies were so kind as to shared some information with me—after, of course, they brought it to their ruler. If only this slop balloon, [[Gruezak]], would be of use like that once in a while! Anyway, several enemy generals are preparing a strike at [[Fort Wildblade]], right into the heart of the territory I have been deployed to defend. It is not yet known what kind of heroes they are, but there are at least two of them. The [[Bracada]]n wizards began work on an arcane ritual to magically transport those armies right under our arses!<p>Damn cowards! The only thing I know for sure is that they won't be able to bring all their generals here at once; they will send them one by one. After the first ritual, the [[mage]]s will have to recharge their portal, and we will have about a month to prepare for a new strike.}}
{{TErow| 12 | Day 12 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 257:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Sometimes I can't help but wonder; why does one's luck turn all the time? Fate can be capricious. It all started with that mouthy rat [[Boyd]]—he wanted to take my place, and it was clear as day, even to one with no eyes and half a brain. I put up with him for a long time, hoping he would come to his senses and quit scheming. Alas! I had to execute the half-wit as a show of force, so that no one would ever draw new plots against me.<p>And what do you think? He rose from the dead! I don't know who helped him—the mainland [[Jadame]] is an incredible mess, and literally anything can happen there.<p>The vile rotten carcass teamed up with [[goblin]]s, [[Halflings|man-eating midgets]] and other abominations from the wastelands, and they managed to oust us from the continent. I could not tolerate such an affront. I decided to take on this repeat offender... and failed!<p>That stupid bonehead rejoiced. He buried me alive, assured that he was not only killing me, but also condemning me to terrible death throes. Ha! Hoping to scare a [[Nighon]] native with some earth over his head! Isn't that something! Mind you, I am not a simple [[pirate]]—I am a sorcerer of the air element, and of quite outstanding power at that. Extracting some air out of the soil for breathing, weakening my bonds with tiny, pin-sharp gusts of wind—all that is small change for me. And then, long hours of patient, diligent exercises in forcing the wind to blow away the sand, until, layer by layer, it goes away and frees my coffin. [[Tor Anwyn]] himself couldn't handle me, let alone a stupid [[pirate]]'s even stupider corpse!<p>There were no brains left in that bone box at all—otherwise he could have come up with a better idea than the execution, which I myself forced into his mind, begging him not to dispense the reckoning with the same measure that I once dispensed my punishment to him with. They say the [[Bracada]]ns have come up with a whole science about the turns a person's thought takes—I think they call it psychology. Maybe I should write a textbook on the subject for them.<p>Well, dear diary, I have literally risen from the grave, and before long, I will regain my power... Very soon.}}
{{TErow| 14 | Day 14 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 258:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: A caravan of gold from [[Kilgor]] has arrived. I hope this doesn't cripple his army too much. I believe his dashing men are getting ready to do something too, besides watching [[Dargem]] do the dirty work. Or are they?|effect=+1575 {{Gold}} [[Gold]], +3 {{Wood}} [[Wood]], +3 {{Ore}} [[Ore]], +1 {{Mercury}} [[Mercury]], +1 {{Sulfur}} [[Sulfur]], +2 {{Crystal}} [[Crystal]], +3 {{Gem}} [[Gems]]}}
{{TErow| 15 | Day 15 | From an unsent letter by [[Gruezak]]:<p>{{H|Gruezak|0=}}: It's surprisingly easy to pass for an idiot in the eyes of others if you happen to be born an [[orc]]. Well, our ancient cult of feasting is indeed very easy to mistake for a mixture of gluttony and sloppiness, if you have never been invited to sit at our table or taught the meaning behind every tradition-laden component of our ceremonial regales. This fop [[Dargem]] pulls unimaginable faces, as soon as his eye catches us, with all the required rituals of respect, skin and butcher our kill, applying patterns of hot blood to our faces; the seniors among us have first choice of the most valuable cuts and intestines which irrevocably lose their delicate taste as soon as the living warmth leaves them. Well, let him be content with his thrice moldy cheese and wines forgotten in a dusty basement since time before gods.<p>[[Old Preudhum]] would have the time of his life watching this gourmet! Now that was a man who knew his high cuisine: he could slice a fresh spleen into paper-thick slices, roast and serve it while the one who supplied it was still breathing. I remember, [[Bof]], how you brought me to meet him and told me to learn everything he knows. I remember the way you uttered that word, "everything." I was a diligent student, [[Uncle Bof]].<p>Someday I'll be asked, "Who were you in [[Kilgor]]e's time, [[Gruezak]]?". That's probably how I'll answer: a cook. I just hope I won't be hearing these questions while drawn over a rack.}}
{{TErow| 21 | Day 21 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 260:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: A woman on a ship is trouble; that's what [[Erathia]]n sailors think. This is actually the case, and it's quite understandable. On a long voyage, the male crew will sooner or later get at each other's throats if one of them enjoys female company, while the others do not. For this very reason, the pirates never even take women captive—they just throw them overboard.<p>However, most of the female population of [[Regna]] can hardly be characterized as timid housewives. Some female [[pirate]]s have become legends of no smaller caliber as the best male [[captain]]s. Of course, few girls in [[Regna]] have the guts to become regular sailors—this is a difficult and taxing job, fraught with constant risk. There is a stratum of [[Priestesses of the Sea]] in this society—they are considered full-fledged crew members, but no one forces them to scrub the deck or stretch the sails.<p>They can hardly be called cultists, although they observe rituals originating from the religion of some small people once assimilated by [[pirate]]s. Rather, they are battle mages, supporting the crew with simple but effective spells. Male [[pirate]]s largely perceive them as comrades-in-arms; but that's before going ashore, of course. It is worth noting, however, that some of these [[priestesses]] are very talented spellweavers of no smaller power than, say, [[druid]]s. They command great influence and maintain close ties with the most reputable [[captain]]s and admirals.}}
{{TErow| 22 | Day 22 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 261:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: We should be on our guard! There is information that [[Adelaide]], the ice priestess, will soon invade the region. Well, I, for one, am not afraid of her silly tricks with icicles. She'll regret getting in the way of [[Kilgor]] and I!}}
{{TErow| 28 | Day 28 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 263:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: What is known about the [[Nix]]?<p>They are an ancient race of humanoid amphibians. They differ from the [[Tatalia]]n [[lizardmen]] in their larger size and emerald-colored scales. Also important is the fact that they prefer to live in salt water; they actually tend to spend more time in the depths than on land. Maybe the two species are related to an extent, but hardly greater than, say, [[goblin]]s and [[ogre]]s. The [[Nix]] once engaged in piracy, attacking ships and coercing tribute out of coastal settlements. This barbaric lifestyle, as well as constant internecine wars, brought the [[Nix]] to the verge of extinction.<p>They were scattered all over the world, and many ended up being enslaved. I've known these creatures since I lived in [[Nighon]]. We often used [[Nix]] laborers to work in flooded mines. Recently, however, they have managed to forget their old feuds and have reached out to the [[pirate]]s of [[Regna]]. That was a wise decision: it gave their race powerful patrons.<p>An adult [[Nix]] is no weaker than an [[ogre]] or a [[troll]], and armed with his weapon of choice, trident, he becomes a veritable death machine. For this reason, [[Regna]]n [[captain]]s respect and value these creatures highly, and [[Nix]] can often be found at the forefront of their hosts.}}
{{TErow| 49 | Day 49 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 264:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: An urgent report came, telling about the soon-expected arrival of the [[wizard]] [[Astral]] in these parts! I think I've heard of this rascal before. He professionally messes with the heads of enemy soldiers, and is likely capable of other dirty tricks as well. If the scouts are not exaggerating, then [[Astral]] is accompanied by [[Titan]]s. Apparently, he is dead set on vanquishing [[Kilgor]]. I cannot let that happen! No [[Titan]]s will help him defeat our hordes. The old fool will crawl away in disgrace!}}
{{TErow| 50 | Day 50 | From an unsent letter by [[Gruezak]]:<p>{{H|Gruezak|0=}}: [[Bof]], I'll just pretend I never received your last letter with instructions. Don't forget: I have a lot of interesting things to share, should someone be willing to listen. For one, there's a captivating story about how [[Kilgor]]e circumvented [[Boragus]]'s law on the size of clan leaders' life guard by designating his extra men as kitchen staff on the registers submitted to the Duke. About the person who put the very idea of such a trick into his oaken head. About how Bo... the very mastermind personally recruited these "knife and brazier workers", and about what he taught them. What... recipes. About the exquisite treats the chieftains who abhorred [[Kilgor]]e's rise would receive from this kitchen.<p>Of course, now, right after yours... our lord has proved his right to power in the only way worthy of a [[barbarian]]—by force, that is—this information is useless. But what if the seed falls into fertile soil a few years from now, with the clans already weary of his rule? What if they find out what a rotten foundation underlies the shrine you and [[Kija]] are erecting around the figure of our brave ruler? Think about it, [[Bofmog]]. Think carefully before giving me ultimatums and forcing me to risk my skin. I don't care about [[Dargem]]. I will say more: not only was he disrespectful to me, he even dared to threaten me, and I would like him to pay for that—but you yourself taught me that in our line of work, one cannot give in to feelings.<p>It would be small challenge for me to make sure the hireling does not survive the last fight, and the reward [[Kilgor]] sent him... disappears, but I found signs that someone other than myself is keeping an eye on him a well. This is someone who already counts on the money and would definitely disapprove of your plans to ensure yourself a safety net through a little embezzlement, just in case something unforeseen and premature befalls our ruler. And I'm not prepared to pay with my life for your greed.}}
{{TErow| 70 | Day 70 | [[Dargem]]'s diary. Entry 265:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: It seems that the last enemy general is about to arrive here at the head of his army. The famous [[knight]], [[Sir Mullich]], decided to throw his gauntlet in this war. He is preparing to march here with a group of [[archangel]]s. I must admit that this foe is our biggest threat thus far. Just how accomplished a warrior [[Sir Mullich]] is can be judged by the fact that he is no more allowed to ride in jousting tournaments, so that others would have a chance to shine. However, an all-out war is no tilt, and I am not bound by any rules here! That being said, we should make proper preparations; It's not worth taking risks when victory is so close and the enemy is about to falter. Perhaps I won't even have to pummel [[Sir Mullich|Mullich]] with my own hands—if I manage to distract his attention from [[Kilgor]]e's headquarters, the time gained thus should be enough for reinforcements from [[Krewlod]] to arrive. Once they're here, the enemy coalition will have no choice but to retreat.}}
|}
=== Rumors ===
{{Rheader}}
{{Rrow | [[Adelaide]] | [[Adelaide]] is rumored to be assembling a combined army. }}
{{Rrow | [[Astral]] | They say [[Astral]] wasn't a [[wizard]] all his life—he was once considered a decent shooter. }}
{{Rrow | [[Cave of Illusions]] | They say that in the old days, in the mountains to the west, one could find the entrance to a mysterious cave. At some point, it disappeared without a trace. I wonder why. }}
{{Rrow | [[Mullich]] | [[Sir Mullich]] prefers to rely on flying creatures in battle. He also somehow got his hands on a real [[cannon]]! }}
{{Rrow | Old Version | They say that back in the day, you could find huts built right in the middle of lakes in these parts! How do you like such tall tales? }}
{{Rrow | [[Solmyr]] | [[Solmyr]] himself is about to face [[Kilgor]]! What can [[orc]] bands do against his mighty thunderbolts? }}
{{Rrow | Worms | [[Sandworm|Huge worms]] have appeared in our parts! It's probably the [[wizard]]s' fault—they throw out magical waste, then the worms eat it up and grow big! }}
{{Rrow | [[Xanthor]] | They say the [[Orc]]s captured some big-time scholar on the border with [[Erathia]]. }}
|}
=== Objects ===
==== Events ====
{| class="sortable wikitable" cellpadding=5px
! Location
! Message
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 4, 104, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Ambush!<p><center>'''Guardians:''' 50 {{Cn|Crew Mate}}s, 15 {{Cn|Gunslinger}}s, 50 {{Cn|Rogue}}s, 15 {{Cn|Sharpshooter|image=Sharpshooter (HotA)}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 534 {{Gold}} [[Gold]]</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 6, 1, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | It's horrendously cold in here...<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{Morale|-1}}, {{Mv|Take|-400}}</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 10, 22, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | {{H|Murdoch|0=}}: "Hey, pal, thanks for saving me from those things!"  The voice of the stranger in the odd-looking hat rang out.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "How did you let them capture you?" I asked.<p>{{H|Murdoch|0=}}: "There were too many of them; I didn't have enough time to reload."<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "That's why I prefer good old-fashioned magic," I said weightily. "I am handy enough with the pistol and the arquebus, but there's no better feeling then giving a foe a mouthful of [[Lightning Bolt|lightning]]!"<p>{{H|Murdoch|0=}}: "I owe you one. My name is [[Murdoch]], and I'm a [[mercenary]]."<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "I'm [[Dargem]]," I said. "I'm a mercenary, too... sort of."<p>{{H|Murdoch|0=}}: "Well met, [[Dargem]]! To repay my debt, I will accompany you on your adventures, but for a limited time. Business calls me to [[Jadame]].<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "That would be good: I could use some trusty companions. Oh, you know what! When in [[Jadame]], if you happen to meet one little, mischievous..." I was loath to let my regular companions in on the details of my less-than-successful endeavor off the coast of the distant continent, so the rest of the conversation was kept low. [[Murdoch]] lifted his dark-hued spectacles, narrowed his pale eyes, and nodded. We shook hands.
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 18, 38, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | {{H|Dargem|0=}}: Suddenly, a phantom appeared next to me, taking the form of a [[red-haired woman]]! I drew my cutlass and prepared a [[Lightning Bolt|bolt of lightning]] in my left hand. My bodyguards also drew their swords.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}:"Who are you? Identify yourself!" I shouted.<p>Phantom: "Give... Mograin... oots... vitation," said the phantom, gesturing violently and occasionally seeming to distort for a moment.<p>
{{H|Dargem|0=}}:"What are you on about? I don't have any boots except my own... and no "vitation" for sure!" I said angrily, confused as to what was going on.<p>I didn't get an answer, though: the phantom was gone. Some spatial anomalies again, I thought warily as I put my cutlass away.<p>Man: "Cap'n, look! There's something glistening on the ground!" one of my men exclaimed.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}:"Well, that's what I thought!" I said, looking closer. "Someone was experimenting with spatial beacons, but messed up the settings. Collect them! They are nothing more than pretty pieces of glass now."<p><center>'''Contents:''' 7 {{Gem}} [[Gems]]</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 23, 72, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Entry from [[Dargem]]'s diary:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: I noticed that brightly colored tent from afar. I thought it might be the keymaster's, for some reason left unmarked on my map—but it was surprisingly small, which confused me. Then an odd-looking grey-haired man in a peculiar outfit appeared from somewhere. When he saw us, he waved, then ran into the tent. Just as I shouted at him, "Who are you?", the tent vanished into thin air! We searched the area carefully, but found no sign of the old man or his blue tent... There was, however, something valuable lying on the ground: he must have dropped it.<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{An|Speculum}}</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 46, 105, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Entry from [[Dargem]]'s diary:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: We saw an unfamiliar ship: it popped up, as if out of nowhere. As we got closer, someone on its board shouted loudly, 'De Spanjaarden!', and then the ship just disappeared! What do these words mean? I've never heard anything like that. We must have encountered the legendary [[Flying Jadamean]]—it's said to bring bad luck.<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{Luck|-2}}</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 48, 72, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | ''Note: Only applies to {{purple}} AI player''<p>Low difficulty ally bonus<p><center>'''Contents:''' 10000 {{Gold}} [[Gold]], 20 {{Wood}} [[Wood]], 20 {{Ore}} [[Ore]], 10 {{Mercury}} [[Mercury]], 10 {{Sulfur}} [[Sulfur]], 10 {{Crystal}} [[Crystal]], 10 {{Gem}} [[Gems]]</center></p>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 61, 30, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Entry from [[Dargem]]'s diary:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: A puff of smoke from over the hill caught my attention. I decided to check it out. To my surprise, I found a [[halfling]] farmstead! With all my rage, I let a [[Lightning Bolt|bolt of lightning]] at the nearest shack. The house burst into flames, and the little bastards scattered in terror. I laughed ominously, sent a few more bolts after them, and then snatched a musket from a companion's hands and fired a shot.<p>Let those dirty midgets remember [[Dargem]]! Let them run all the way to [[Jadame]] and complain to their kin!<p>I hate the [[halfling]]s, their nasty chieftess [[Henrietta]], and her friend, the old goof [[Frederick]]. If they dare get in my way again, I won't be playing by gentlemen's rules!<p>After quenching my thirst for revenge, I decided to replenish my supplies a little. By way of robbery, of course. I'll see if someone dares say I didn't deserve it!
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 62, 12, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Entry from [[Dargem]]'s diary:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: Today, I met a famous scholar named [[Lex]]. We sat by the campfire, trading stories. [[Lex]] told me that somewhere in the void between worlds, huge chunks of stone are flying, on which people and other creatures live—and these stones seem to form new worlds like ours. To be honest, it sounded like ravings of a madman to me. Flying rocks? They are heavy and inevitably fall! Still, some food for thought.</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 76, 64, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | {{H|Kilgor|0=}}: "[[Dargem]]? What the hell?!" Kilgor growled from the wall, surprised.
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 80, 63, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | ''Note: Only applies to {{red}}{{blue}} AI players''<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{Luck|+3}}, {{Morale|+3}}, {{Mv|Nullify|Nullify}}</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 84, 52, 0<br>84, 58, 0<br>107, 37, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | ''Note: Only applies to {{red}}{{blue}} AI players''<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{Mv|Nullify|Nullify}}</center></p>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 90, 52, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | {{cnu|Ogre Mage|Cyclops King|Stronghold#Creatures|name=Ogres and Cyclopes}}: "Good to see you, mercenary! We have cooped up here to hide from the sorcerers' wrath, but we will gladly help you!"<p><center>'''Contents:''' 15 {{Cn|Ogre Mage|name=Ogre Magi}}, 5 {{Cn|Cyclops King}}s</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 103, 25, 0
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | Entry from [[Dargem]]'s diary:<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: I had an utterly dreadful dream today! In it, I worked at an observatory lost in the mountains. It was equipped with huge telescopes that transmitted information to a crystal ball. Suddenly, something went wrong with the telescopes: the feed from them began to stutter. It was night outside, and I was very scared, but I had to check out the telescopes and find out what was wrong. I was shaking with terror at the thought of going out into the mountains in the middle of the night!  I had a pony in the stable to ride on. I was just trying to mount when I fell and woke up. How good I felt after finding out that it was merely a dream!<p><center>'''Contents:''' {{Morale|-2}}</center>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 2, 94, 1
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | ''Note: Only applies to {{blue}} AI player on [[Difficulty level|impossible difficulty]]''<p>Bonus for max difficulty level<p><center>'''Contents:''' 93 {{Cn|Halberdier|image=Halberdier (HotA)}}s, 13 {{Cn|Zealot}}s, 15 {{Cn|Arch Mage|name=Arch Magi}}, 8 {{Cn|Naga Queen}}s, 3 {{Cn|Titan}}s, 34 {{Cn|Steel Golem}}s</center></p>
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | 2, 102, 1
| style="padding-left:7px; padding-right:5px;" | ''Note: Only applies to {{blue}} AI player on [[Difficulty level|impossible difficulty]]''<p>Bonus for max difficulty level<p><center>'''Contents:''' 87 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s, 56 {{Cn|Crusader}}s, 16 {{Cn|Champion}}s, 5 {{Cn|Archangel}}s, 132 {{Cn|Obsidian Gargoyle}}s, 41 {{Cn|Genie}}s</center></p>
|}
==== Towns ====
{{town header}}
{{town row|86, 73, 0|tan|Stronghold|nofort=}}
{{town row|88, 95, 0|tan|Cove|[[Kraken Bay]]}}
{{town row|48, 70, 0|purple|Stronghold}}
{{town row|76, 63, 0|purple|Stronghold|[[Wildblade]]}}
{{town row|20, 26, 0|red|Castle|nofort=}}
{{town row|54, 26, 0|red|Castle|[[Thundertown]]}}
{{town row|5, 5, 0|blue|Tower|nofort=}}
{{town row|91, 3, 0|blue|Tower|[[Star Grove]]}}
{{town row|5, 47, 0| |Stronghold|nofort=}}
{{town row|104, 56, 0| |Castle|nofort=}}
|}
==== Heroes ====
{{hero header}}
{{hero row|87, 74, 0|tan|Gruezak|Barbarian}}
{{hero row|88, 96, 0|tan|Dargem|Navigator}}
{{hero row|9, 2, 0|{{tan}} {{imprisoned|small}}|Murdoch|Mercenary}}
{{hero row|13, 28, 1|{{tan}} {{imprisoned|water}}|Elmore|Captain}}
{{hero row|48, 70, 0|purple|Oris|Battle Mage}}
{{hero row|48, 71, 0|purple|Dessa|Battle Mage}}
{{hero row|76, 63, 0|purple|Kilgor|Barbarian}}
{{hero row|21, 25, 0|red|Ingham|Cleric}}
{{hero row|54, 27, 0|red|Beatrice|Knight}}
{{hero row|56, 28, 0|red|Theodorus|Wizard}}
{{hero row|0, 98, 1|red|Adelaide|Cleric|image=Adelaide (HotA)}}
{{hero row|5, 6, 0|blue|Iona|Alchemist|image=Iona (HotA)}}
{{hero row|7, 1, 0|blue|Fafner|Alchemist}}
{{hero row|92, 4, 0|blue|Solmyr|Wizard|image=Solmyr (HotA)}}
{{hero row|93, 5, 0|blue|Cuthbert|Cleric}}
{{hero row|0, 94, 1|blue|Astral|Wizard}}
{{hero row|0, 102, 1|blue|Sir Mullich|Knight|image=Sir Mullich (HotA)}}
|}
==== Monsters ====
{{encounter header}}
{{encounter row|25, 105,0|{{Cn|Enchanter}}s | "What do you want? Go away! Don't interfere with our experiments!"}}
{{encounter row|70, 90, 0|{{Cn|Air Elemental}}s | It seems that some wild elementals are preventing the Priestesses of the Sea from leaving their hideout.}}
{{encounter row|84, 95, 0|{{Cn|Mighty Gorgon}}s | "Moooo!"}}
{{encounter row|92, 91, 0|{{Cn|Monk}}s | "Ye ungodly heretics!"}}
{{encounter row|96, 90, 0|{{Cn|Halberdier|image=Halberdier (HotA)}}s | "What are these stinking [[pirate]]s doing here?"}}
|}
==== Seer's Huts ====
{{SorQheader}}
{{SorQrow|seer=3|loc=25, 60, 0|quest=Defeat:<br>{{Cn|Red Dragon}}s<br>at (25, 56, 0)|rew=5 {{Cn|Behemoth}}s|prop=I'm breeding [[Behemoth]]s here. [[Red dragon]]s have been flying in from the north of the ridge lately, stealing my young! If you take out the monsters, I will reward you handsomely.|prog=The [[dragon]]s are very close by, but you will need a decent army to kill them.|comp=Thank you for saving my sweet babies! They're safe now, and I can give a few younger ones to your army.}}
{{SorQrow|seer=1|loc=36, 48, 0|quest=Be:<br>{{H|Murdoch|Mercenary}}|rew={{An|Pendant of Holiness}}|prop=My good friend [[Murdoch]] was about to embark on an adventure to another continent. Before leaving, he decided to hunt some mysterious monsters. He said they had [[Fangarm|heads like squids]], or... hell knows, I'm not a fisherman! He's been gone for a while, and I'm worried.|prog=Have you heard from [[Murdoch]]?|comp=[[Murdoch]]! How glad I am to see you in good health, old sport! Give this bauble to your [[pirate]] friends—I think they'll need it in the future.}}
{{SorQrow|seer=2|loc=95, 59, 0|quest=Return with:<br>15 {{Cn|Monk}}s|rew=15 {{Cn|Cyclops|name=Cyclopes}}|prop=<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: A [[cyclops]] tribe lives here. They are tired of preachers who keep coming year after year, trying to turn them away from the faith of their ancestors. Killing them would be too easy: the [[cyclopes]] want to eat them! They ask me to bring about 15 holy men for lunch; then the gorged [[cyclops]] tribe will join me!|prog=No lunch, no deal!|comp=<br>{{Cn|Cyclops|name=Cyclopes}}: Finally: a hearty lunch and a proper payback for the irksome preachers' blasphemy! Bring them here now: our bellies are growling!}}
{{SorQrow|seer=w|loc=20, 45, 1|quest=Defeat:<br>{{Hn|Beatrice|Knight}}|rew=10 {{Cn|Gunslinger}}s|prop=Hail to you, brother! Damn [[Beatrice]], the self-proclaimed [[pirate]] and bandit hunter, had us trapped in this hole. If you take our revenge on that arrogant woman, we'll join you.|prog=[[Beatrice]] is still in [[Erathia]]'s service.|comp=Great job, brother! Are you ready to take us into your gang?}}
{{SorQrow|seer=w|loc=85, 69, 1|numQ=2|quest=Be:<br>{{H|Elmore|Captain}}|rew=(none)|prop=<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: It seems that recently, [[pirate]]s have developed a sensible but irksome custom of locking their houses. I guess [[Elmore]] lives here; I'll have to find him if I want to visit his place.|prog=Only [[Elmore]] can open the door.|comp=<p>{{H|Elmore|0=}}: "Thank you for saving me, [[Dargem]]!" [[Elmore]] exclaimed and bowed dramatically, taking a knee.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Enough of the honors! Let's go have a chat," I grumbled, not without a silent sigh. I must admit that I enjoyed receiving the honors, but I didn't want to overindulge myself in the company of [[Regna]]ns.}}
{{SorQrow|quest=Be:<br>{{H|Dargem|Navigator}}|rew=+2 {{Ps|Attack}}|prop=<p>{{H|Elmore|0=}}: "I've had absolutely no luck lately! I keep getting locked up," [[Elmore]] said angrily.|prog=[[Elmore]] will only talk to [[Dargem]].|comp=<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Bad luck, huh?" I chuckled.<p>{{H|Elmore|0=}}: "It's probably that old business in the tomb! I got into one... everything must have been cursed there! Ever since, I keep getting caught by [[knight]]s and [[demon]]s... even some [[Lobstrosity|talking lobsters]]," [[Elmore]] sighed, and began rummaging through his trunk.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "[[Lobstrosity|Talking lobsters]]? Where did you meet them?"<p>{{H|Elmore|0=}}: "Never mind! They're unlikely to still be there!" The [[pirate]] waved me off. "You'd better try this!"<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "And what's that?" I asked, looking at a bowl with a pestle. There was some green stuff in it.<p>{{H|Elmore|0=}}: "Paste made from rare mountain berries. [[Barbarian]]s eat it to get stronger.<p>{{H|Dargem|0=}}: "Are you and [[Miriam]] conspiring? Both of you seem to have developed an alarming desire to put all sorts of disgusting things into your mouths..." I grumbled.<p>Reluctantly, I scooped up some of the paste with my finger. The smell was vile, as if someone had already eaten these berries once. I held my breath and licked my finger. A wave of warmth spread through my body, my vision sharpened, and my movements became smooth and precise. Should I finish the treat?}}
|}
==== Quest Guards ====
{{SorQheader}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=14, 30, 0<br>51, 53, 1|quest=Be:<br>{{H|Dargem|Navigator}}|prop=The guards here say they have orders to only let Dargem pass.|prog=The guards here will only let Dargem pass.|comp=At last, it is Dargem.  Do you wish to pass?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=14, 68, 0<br>51, 51, 0<br>96, 53, 0|quest=Be:<br>{{tan}} player|prop=The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.|prog=The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.|comp=The guards note your tan flag and offer to let you pass.  Do you accept?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=54, 30, 0|quest=Return after:<br>Month 1, Week 1, Day 5|prop=Closed till month 1, week 1, day 5.|prog=Closed till month 1, week 1, day 5.|comp=You are free to go through now.  Do you wish to pass?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=98, 17, 0|quest=Return after:<br>Month 1, Week 3, Day 3|prop=Closed till month 1, week 3, day 3.|prog=Closed till month 1, week 3, day 3.|comp=You are free to go through now.  Do you wish to pass?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=1, 94, 1|quest=Return after:<br>Month 2, Week 4, Day 2|prop=Closed till month 2, week 4, day 2.|prog=Closed till month 2, week 4, day 2.|comp=You are free to go through now.  Do you wish to pass?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=1, 98, 1|quest=Return after:<br>Month 1, Week 4, Day 6|prop=Closed till month 1, week 4, day 6.|prog=Closed till month 1, week 4, day 6.|comp=You are free to go through now.  Do you wish to pass?}}
{{SorQrow|guard=1|loc=1, 102, 1|quest=Return after:<br>Month 3, Week 4, Day 1|prop=Closed till month 3, week 4, day 1.|prog=Closed till month 3, week 4, day 1.|comp=You are free to go through now.  Do you wish to pass?}}
|}
==== Quest Gates ====
{{SorQheader}}
{{SorQrow|gate=1|loc=9, 70, 0<br>94, 81, 1|quest=Be:<br>{{tan}} player|prop=The guards here say they will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.|prog=The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.|comp=The guards note your tan flag and offer to let you pass.  Do you accept?}}
|}
==== Pandora's Boxes ====
{{encounter header}}
{{encounter row|50, 52, 1|[[File:Pandora's_Box_(water).gif|link=Pandora's Box]] [[Pandora's Box]]|''Note: ONLY applies on [[Difficulty level|easy, medium, and hard difficulties]].''<p><center> '''Guardians:''' 215 {{Cn|Troglodyte}}s, 189 {{Cn|Infernal Troglodyte}}s, 44 {{Cn|Beholder}}s, 39 {{Cn|Evil Eye}}s, 9 {{Cn|Red Dragon}}s<p>'''Contents:''' +1 {{Ps|Attack}}, +1 {{Ps|Defense}}, +1 {{Ps|Power}}, +1 {{Ps|Knowledge}}, +5000 {{Gold}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
|}
==== Other objects ====
{{encounter header}}
{{encounter row| 2, 75, 0|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 1.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 50 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Shaman's Puppet}}, 5000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row| 2, 80, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Thought|water}}|{{Sn|Anti-Magic}}}}
{{encounter row| 3, 77, 0|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 2.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 15 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row| 3, 85, 0|{{map object|Ocean Bottle}}|Do they call you by your name?}}
{{encounter row|10, 72, 0|{{map object|Witch Hut}}|{{Ss|Fire Magic}}}}
{{encounter row|13,  6, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Gesture|water}}|{{Sn|Visions}}}}
{{encounter row|14, 79, 0|{{map object|Warrior's Tomb}}|{{An|Endless Sack of Gold}}}}
{{encounter row|14, 100, 0|{{map object|Beholders' Sanctuary}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 75 {{Cn|Beholder}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Armor of Wonder}}, 5000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|26, 95, 0|{{map object|Derelict Ship}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 40 {{Cn|Water Elemental}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Ladybird of Luck}}, 4000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|30, 48, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Hidden Valley}}
{{encounter row|31, 30, 0|{{map object|Crypt|image=Crypt (dirt-grass-swamp).gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Skeleton}}s, 20 {{Cn|Zombie}}s, 5 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 2000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|33,  1, 0|{{map object|Scholar}}|+1 {{Ps|Attack}}}}
{{encounter row|36, 103,0|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 2.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Glyph of Gallantry}}, 4000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|40, 95, 0|{{map object|Ocean Bottle}}|What question can't be answered with a "No"?}}
{{encounter row|42, 72, 0|{{map object|Witch Hut}}|{{Ss|Pathfinding}}}}
{{encounter row|46,  1, 0|{{blue}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (vertical).gif}} (non-removable)|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Arch Mage}}s, 35 {{Cn|Enchanter}}s, 25 {{Cn|Arch Mage}}s</center>}}
{{encounter row|49, 101,0|{{map object|Shipwreck Survivor}}|{{An|Necklace of Ocean Guidance}}}}
{{encounter row|51, 84, 0|{{map object|Beholders' Sanctuary}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 100 {{Cn|Beholder}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Necklace of Dragonteeth}}, 6000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|53,  0, 0|{{map object|Abandoned Mine|image=Abandoned Mine 6.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 100-200 {{Cn|Harpy Hag}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{C}} [[Crystal]] Mine</center>}}
{{encounter row|54, 29, 0|{{red}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (horizontal).gif}} (non-removable)|<center>'''Guardians:''' 5 {{Cn|Archangel}}s, 25 {{Cn|Zealot}}s, 35 {{Cn|Crusader}}s, 25 {{Cn|Zealot}}s, 5 {{Cn|Archangel}}s</center>}}
{{encounter row|61,  7, 0|{{map object|Witch Hut|image=Witch Hut (snow).gif}}|{{Ss|Air Magic}}}}
{{encounter row|62, 102,0|{{map object|Ocean Bottle}}|How fast should a hydra run to not hear the clink of a sword tied to its tail?}}
{{encounter row|68, 80, 0|{{map object|University}}|Any four random skills ''except'' Diplomacy, Eagle Eye, Necromancy, Scholar}}
{{encounter row|68, 80, 0|{{map object|Derelict Ship}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 40 {{Cn|Water Elemental}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Spirit of Oppression}}, 4000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|71, 34, 0|{{map object|Witch Hut}}|{{Ss|Luck}}}}
{{encounter row|73, 45, 0|{{red}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (vertical).gif}} (non-removable)|
<center>'''Guardians:''' 100 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s, 5 {{Cn|Angel}}s, 25 {{Cn|Zealot}}s, 100 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s, 25 {{Cn|Zealot}}s, 5 {{Cn|Angel}}s, 100 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s</center>}}
{{encounter row|74, 20, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Mystery}}|{{Sn|Frenzy}}}}
{{encounter row|75, 74, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Sometimes, where a place seems to be completely empty, something interesting is hidden there.}}
{{encounter row|77, 97, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Gesture|water}}|{{Sn|Protection from Air}}}}
{{encounter row|77, 103,0|{{map object|Derelict Ship}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 20 {{Cn|Water Elemental}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|79,  5, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Incantation}}|{{Sn|View Air}}}}
{{encounter row|81,  4, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Caution! Possible avalanche!}}
{{encounter row|83, 84, 0|{{map object|Beholders' Sanctuary}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 50 {{Cn|Beholder}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Torso of Legion}}, 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|85, 60, 0|{{tan}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (horizontal).gif}} (non-removable)|<center>'''Guardians:''' 35 {{Cn|Corsair}}s, 15 {{Cn|Sea Witch}}es, 5 {{Cn|Nix Warrior}}s, 15 {{Cn|Sea Witch}}es, 35 {{Cn|Corsair}}s</center>}}
{{encounter row|89, 68, 0|{{map object|Witch Hut}}|{{Ss|Logistics}}}}
{{encounter row|92, 46, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Gesture}}|{{Sn|Lightning Bolt}}}}
{{encounter row|95, 51, 0|{{red}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (horizontal).gif}} (non-removable)|<center>'''Guardians:''' 45 {{Cn|Marksman|name=Marksmen}}, 20 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s, 10 {{Cn|Champion}}s, 20 {{Cn|Royal Griffin}}s, 45 {{Cn|Marksman|name=Marksmen}}</center>}}
{{encounter row|97, 12, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Bracada}}
{{encounter row|97, 47, 0|{{map object|Warrior's Tomb}}|{{An|Cape of Velocity}}}}
{{encounter row|97, 80, 0|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Incantation|water}}|{{Sn|Shield}}}}
{{encounter row|98, 16, 0|{{blue}}{{map object|Garrison|image=Garrison (horizontal).gif}} (non-removable)|<center>'''Guardians:''' 5 {{Cn|Titan}}s, 300 {{Cn|Master Gremlin}}s, 50 {{Cn|Arch Mage}}s, 35 {{Cn|Naga Queen}}s, 50 {{Cn|Arch Mage}}, 300 {{Cn|Master Gremlin}}s, 5 {{Cn|Titan}}s</center>}}
{{encounter row|99, 73, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Beware of surprise attacks!}}
{{encounter row|103, 0, 0|{{map object|Sign}}|Listen to the voices of the void...}}
{{encounter row|105, 85,0|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 1.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Clover of Fortune}}, 4000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|106, 69,0|{{map object|Black Tower}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 1 {{Cn|Green Dragon}}<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Inexhaustible Cart of Ore}}, 2000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|107, 74,0|{{map object|Crypt|image=Crypt (sand).gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Skeleton}}s, 20 {{Cn|Zombie}}s, 5 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 2000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|107,103,0|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 1.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 25 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Cards of Prophecy}}, 4000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|15, 31, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck Survivor}}|{{An|Cape of Conjuring}}}}
{{encounter row|20, 50, 1|{{map object|Derelict Ship}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 20 {{Cn|Water Elemental}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|23, 72, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 1.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 50 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Equestrian's Gloves}}, 5000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|35, 24, 1|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Gesture|water}}|{{Sn|Precision}}}}
{{encounter row|35, 25, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck Survivor}}|{{An|Dead Man's Boots}}}}
{{encounter row|53, 40, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck Survivor}}|{{An|Hideous Mask}}}}
{{encounter row|58, 42, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 2.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 15 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|62, 36, 1|{{map object|Beholders' Sanctuary}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 50 {{Cn|Beholder}}s<p>'''Contents:''' {{An|Ring of Life}}, 3000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|64, 11, 1|{{map object|Shrine of Magic Mystery|water}}|{{Sn|Clone}}}}
{{encounter row|67, 70, 1|{{map object|Seafaring Academy}}|{{Ss|Leadership}}, {{Ss|Navigation}}, {{Ss|Offense}}}}
{{encounter row|91, 56, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 2.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 10 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 2000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|95, 31, 1|{{map object|Shipwreck|image=Shipwreck 1.gif}}|<center>'''Guardians:''' 10 {{Cn|Wight}}s<p>'''Contents:''' 2000 {{G}} [[Gold]]</center>}}
{{encounter row|96, 82, 1|{{map object|Corpse|image=Corpse3_(sand).gif}}|{{An|Speculum}}}}
|}
[[Category: Campaign scenarios]]
[[Category: Campaign scenarios]]

Revision as of 18:49, 14 March 2025

Horn of the Abyss Only available when the unofficial expansion, Horn of the Abyss, is installed.
Campaigns
1 - Restoration of Erathia Restoration of Erathia 1 - Restoration of Erathia
1. Homecoming
2. Guardian Angels
3. Griffin Cliff
1. A Devilish Plan
2. Groundbreaking
3. Steadwick's Fall
1. Borderlands
2. Gold Rush
3. Greed
1. Steadwick's Liberation
2. Deal With the Devil
3. Neutral Affairs
4. Tunnels and Troglodytes
1. A Gryphon's Heart
2. Season of Harvest
3. Corporeal Punishment
4. From Day to Night
1. Safe Passage
2. United Front
3. For King and Country
1. The Grail
2. The Road Home
3. Independence
2 - Armageddon's Blade Armageddon's Blade 2 - Armageddon's Blade
1. Catherine's Charge
2. Shadows of the Forest
3. Seeking Armageddon
4. Maker of Sorrows
5. Return of the King
6. A Blade in the Back
7. To Kill A Hero
8. Oblivion's Edge
1. Culling the Weak
2. Savaging the Scavengers
3. Blood of the Dragon Father
4. Blood Thirsty
1. Crystal Dragons
2. Rust Dragons
3. Faerie Dragons
4. Azure Dragons
1. Razor Claw
2. Taming of the Wild
3. Clan War
4. For the Throne
1. Farming Towns
2. March of the Undead
3. Burning of Tatalia
1. Lost at Sea
2. Their End of the Bargain
3. Here There Be Pirates
4. Hurry Up and Wait
3 - Shadow of Death Shadow of Death 3 - Shadow of Death
1. Clearing the Border
2. After the Amulet
3. Retrieving the Cowl
4. Driving for the Boots
1. Graduation Exercise
2. Cutthroats
3. Valley of the Dragon Lords
4. A Thief in the Night
1. Bashing Skulls
2. Black Sheep
3. A Cage in the Hand
4. Grave Robber
1. On the Run
2. The Meeting
3. A Tough Start
4. Falor and Terwen
5. Returning to Bracada
1. Target
2. Master
3. Finneas Vilmar
4. Duke Alarice
1. Harvest
2. Gathering the Legion
3. Search for a Killer
4. Final Peace
5. Secrets Revealed
6. Agents of Vengeance
7. Wrath of Sandro
8. Invasion
9. To Strive, To Seek
10. Barbarian Brothers
11. Union
12. Fall of Sandro
1. Poison Fit for a King
2. To Build a Tunnel
3. Kreegan Alliance
4. With Blinders On
4 - Horn of the Abyss Horn of the Abyss 4 - Horn of the Abyss
1. Pirates and Palms
2. Master of the Island
3. Devil Sunrise
1. Prisoner of Doom
2. Evenmorn
3. The Shores of Hell
4. The Freedom of the Nix
5. In Search of the Horn
6. Treachery
1. Frontier
2. Heart of Water
3. Horn of the Abyss
4. All Hands on Board!
1. World on Fire
2. Beyond the Horizon
3. Dead or Alive
4. Tomb Raiders
5. Deus Ex Machina
6. Tarred and Feathered
7. New Order
8. Homecoming
⏷ All In
1. A Friendly Visit
2. The Life Guard
3. The Tree Killer
4. Knee-Deep In The Undead
5. Chasing the Dream
5 - Heroes Chronicles Heroes Chronicles 5 - Heroes Chronicles
1. A Barbarian King
2. The Criminal King
3. Ultimatum
4. The War for the Mudlands
5. Siege of the Wallpeaks
6. Trapped!
7. Slash and Burn
8. Steelhorn
1. Cerberus Gate
2. The Boatman
3. Truth Within Nightmares
4. Twisted Tunnels
5. Jorm's Ambush
6. Old Wounds
7. The Queen's Command
8. Never Deal with a Demon
1. The Trouble with Magic
2. Walking on Clouds
3. Don't Drink the Water
4. Hard Place
5. The Secret in the Flames
6. The Magic that Binds
7. Birds of Fire
8. Masters of the Elements
1. The Dragontalker
2. Dragon's Blood
3. The Dragon Mothers
4. Dragons of Rust
5. Distrust
6. Dragons of Gossamer Wings
7. Dragons of Deepest Blue
8. Clash of the Dragons
1. A Distant Cry
2. Senseless Destruction
3. The World Within
4. The Roots of Life
5. Rebirth
1. The Endless Sands
2. The Nameless Land
3. The Sparkling Bridge
4. The Fiery Moon
5. Vorr, the Insane
1. Hopewielder
2. The First Law
3. By Royal Decree
4. The King's Son
5. The Ransom
6. Beyond the Borders
7. Naming a Nation
8. The First Tatalian War
1. Tarnum the Overlord
2. The Land of the Vori
3. A New Enemy
4. A New Ally
5. The Capture
6. Tunnels of Ice
7. The Barbarian's Wife
8. The Protectors of the Sword
In doing another job for his employers, Dargem agrees to help the new barbarian king Kilgor get out of the trap he fell into during his raid on Bracada.
The Life Guard
Size 3 (108×108) - L
Underground enabled
Scenario Description
Dargem must defend Kilgor from the forces of Erathia and Bracada for 3 months. If Kilgor falls, the game is over. The maximum level of heroes is 18. After winning, Dargem will proceed to the next scenario along with the Pendant of Holiness.
Victory Condition
Survive Until Time Expires (84 days) or Defeat All Enemies.
Loss Condition
Lose Hero Kilgor the Barbarian.
Allies: PurpleTan
Enemies: 1: RedBlue
Choose a bonus
Start with 17 Wolf Rider(s) on Gruezak
17
Start with 8 Stormbird(s) on Dargem
8
Start with +2500 Gold
2500
Difficulty
Normal / Knight
Normal
Carried to next scenario
DargemMurdoch Pendant of Holiness
Level cap
18

Prologue

0:13

Dargem Dargem: Dirt, mess, and folly. The very things I abhor and strive to stomp out wherever I go are bound to become staples of my life for the coming months. Oh, the sacrifices a man has to make to reemerge as the top choice for jobs no one but a true artist of delicate business can handle. You might think I am here to enlighten these dim barbarians about the health hazards that come from picking ears with a loaded pistol—and your guess will be wrong. I have come to do a favor to someone who may soon become the ruler of half a continent. A favor remembered for a lifetime.

Scenario

Timed events

Day Title Message
Day 7 At RedBlue (AI):
AI Resources 		(Repeats every 7 days)
(none)
Effect: +10000 Gold Gold, +20 Wood Wood, +20 Ore Ore, +10 Mercury Mercury, +10 Sulfur Sulfur, +10 Crystal Crystal, +10 Gem Gems
Day 1 Day 1.1 Dargem's diary. Entry 250:

Dargem Dargem: This was probably the day after which I began to loathe myself even worse than after my ill-fated theft of the Helmet.

It all started with Stella meeting me at the pre-agreed place, handing me a bag of ducats and saying:

Stella: "Excellent work, Mister Dargem! My masters are pleased with your success."

Dargem Dargem: "Glad to hear it, my lady," I nodded politely. "And now, I would like to hear more about the expedition you mentioned..."

Stella: "Nice of you to remember that," Stella smiled broadly. It seemed to me as though smiling was her professional skill. She had definitely mastered the art of answering any manner of a question with one. "If you still want to take part in the expedition, then there is one more task for you to do..."

Dargem Dargem: "Wait a minute, good lady, we didn't agree on this!"

Stella: "That much is true," she sighed. "You have the right to refuse. I must say, however, that this mission is extremely important to my masters. And likewise for you."

Dargem Dargem: "How so?" I inquired, squinting and looking her in the eye.

Stella: "The young barbarian chieftain Kilgor," Stella said softly. "Perhaps you've already heard of him—an unsavory character through and through... He recently spread the word that he is in dire need of mercenaries. He tried to raid Bracada, but ended up getting trapped. Now he needs a hand to break out. And Kilgor is willing to pay anything to get help. Do you understand what I'm getting at?" The young woman's eyes flashed, and she turned to the sea.

Dargem Dargem: "Hard not to. You want to help this savage out so that he will finance the expedition," I hazarded a guess.

Stella: "Correct, as always, Mister Dargem."

Day 1 Day 1.2 Dargem's diary. Entry 251:

Dargem Dargem: And so I agreed to become the captain of a unit that should help Kilgor get out of his predicament. Well! I hear he can't stand mercenaries, but things are going from bad to worse for him, and he hardly has any choice. My men and I will approach from the sea and land to support the forces defending Fort Wildblade, the barbarian chieftain's headquarters. He was generous enough to placed an auxiliary fort at my disposal and even sent me something like a "liaison officer"—a pig-faced dolt with a nonsensical name that starts with "G". I think. This shambling mound of lard looks like a brigand through and through. Well, if anything, at least he can procure his own supplies for his rabble, even if by robbery.

The combined forces of Erathia and Bracada are advancing from the north. Our task is to contain them, and then to overturn and defeat them. Darn it, I'm a traveler, mage, and collector, not a warlord! I already tried this role once, and I didn't enjoy fighting regular troops at all.

Right now, my biggest concern is not so much the life of the filthy brute, Kilgor, but rather the prospect of letting down my employers. My reputation, which I had barely begun to revive, would be shattered forever, and, worse still, I would never find out about the expedition Stella's masters are planning. Well, how's that for an incentive to try and play Tarnum—or some other mythical military genius. I've acted on worse.

Day 4 Day 4 Dargem's diary. Entry 236:

Dargem Dargem: I have received disturbing news. Bracada's troops are led by the legendary Solmyr. He is a powerful genie and a very close servant of Gavin Magnus himself. I wouldn't enjoy meeting him on the battlefield!

Maybe Kilgor's thugs could keep him at bay? Ugh. Dreaming sure feels nice—it's just a pity that dreams so rarely come true.

Day 8 Day 8 From an unsent letter by Gruezak:

Gruezak Gruezak: So far, I've managed to play this pirate like a fiddle. For the kind of "been there, seen it" adventurer figure he's trying to pull, he's surprisingly unobservant, or maybe just too arrogant to pay attention to things going on beyond the tip of his nose. I managed, for example, to convince him that the disassembled ballista I brought with me was actually parts of a mechanism designed to turn a whole Gorgon roast on a spit.

Uncle Bof, I am of the opinion that Dargem figuring out who I really am is not a risk to consider. I can act freely around him, while he is convinced I am plundering the neighborhood for provisions and any other goods that are not nailed down. And if it turns out that he is unreliable... I remember your lessons well enough, old man. No person, no problem.

Day 9 Day 9 Dargem's diary. Entry 255:

Dargem Dargem: Today, Gruezak delivered a message from Kilgor himself:

Kilgor Kilgor: "Hireling! The Lord of Krewlod is addressing you! The Erathians and the spellweavers took me by surprise; that much you know. I am confident in my power, but the enemies outnumber me, and they have vile magicks on their side! I therefore command you: render all possible assistance to my forces and make sure that the enemy's shock troops do not penetrate my fortress!

I know your type well; people like you have no honor. You hired blades will happily stab your employer in the back if someone gives you a better deal. We're both grown men, and we understand that, don't we? I'll have a caravan of gold and supplies sent out—to secure my rear, not because I really like you. Under other circumstances, I'd love to see what color your guts are. Good luck!"

Dargem Dargem: Can't say I'm surprised. What else can you expect from a barbarian chieftain? A confession of love?

Day 11 Day 11 Dargem's diary. Entry 256:

Dargem Dargem: Kilgore's spies were so kind as to shared some information with me—after, of course, they brought it to their ruler. If only this slop balloon, Gruezak, would be of use like that once in a while! Anyway, several enemy generals are preparing a strike at Fort Wildblade, right into the heart of the territory I have been deployed to defend. It is not yet known what kind of heroes they are, but there are at least two of them. The Bracadan wizards began work on an arcane ritual to magically transport those armies right under our arses!

Damn cowards! The only thing I know for sure is that they won't be able to bring all their generals here at once; they will send them one by one. After the first ritual, the mages will have to recharge their portal, and we will have about a month to prepare for a new strike.

Day 12 Day 12 Dargem's diary. Entry 257:

Dargem Dargem: Sometimes I can't help but wonder; why does one's luck turn all the time? Fate can be capricious. It all started with that mouthy rat Boyd—he wanted to take my place, and it was clear as day, even to one with no eyes and half a brain. I put up with him for a long time, hoping he would come to his senses and quit scheming. Alas! I had to execute the half-wit as a show of force, so that no one would ever draw new plots against me.

And what do you think? He rose from the dead! I don't know who helped him—the mainland Jadame is an incredible mess, and literally anything can happen there.

The vile rotten carcass teamed up with goblins, man-eating midgets and other abominations from the wastelands, and they managed to oust us from the continent. I could not tolerate such an affront. I decided to take on this repeat offender... and failed!

That stupid bonehead rejoiced. He buried me alive, assured that he was not only killing me, but also condemning me to terrible death throes. Ha! Hoping to scare a Nighon native with some earth over his head! Isn't that something! Mind you, I am not a simple pirate—I am a sorcerer of the air element, and of quite outstanding power at that. Extracting some air out of the soil for breathing, weakening my bonds with tiny, pin-sharp gusts of wind—all that is small change for me. And then, long hours of patient, diligent exercises in forcing the wind to blow away the sand, until, layer by layer, it goes away and frees my coffin. Tor Anwyn himself couldn't handle me, let alone a stupid pirate's even stupider corpse!

There were no brains left in that bone box at all—otherwise he could have come up with a better idea than the execution, which I myself forced into his mind, begging him not to dispense the reckoning with the same measure that I once dispensed my punishment to him with. They say the Bracadans have come up with a whole science about the turns a person's thought takes—I think they call it psychology. Maybe I should write a textbook on the subject for them.

Well, dear diary, I have literally risen from the grave, and before long, I will regain my power... Very soon.

Day 14 Day 14 Dargem's diary. Entry 258:

Dargem Dargem: A caravan of gold from Kilgor has arrived. I hope this doesn't cripple his army too much. I believe his dashing men are getting ready to do something too, besides watching Dargem do the dirty work. Or are they?

Effect: +1575 Gold Gold, +3 Wood Wood, +3 Ore Ore, +1 Mercury Mercury, +1 Sulfur Sulfur, +2 Crystal Crystal, +3 Gem Gems
Day 15 Day 15 From an unsent letter by Gruezak:

Gruezak Gruezak: It's surprisingly easy to pass for an idiot in the eyes of others if you happen to be born an orc. Well, our ancient cult of feasting is indeed very easy to mistake for a mixture of gluttony and sloppiness, if you have never been invited to sit at our table or taught the meaning behind every tradition-laden component of our ceremonial regales. This fop Dargem pulls unimaginable faces, as soon as his eye catches us, with all the required rituals of respect, skin and butcher our kill, applying patterns of hot blood to our faces; the seniors among us have first choice of the most valuable cuts and intestines which irrevocably lose their delicate taste as soon as the living warmth leaves them. Well, let him be content with his thrice moldy cheese and wines forgotten in a dusty basement since time before gods.

Old Preudhum would have the time of his life watching this gourmet! Now that was a man who knew his high cuisine: he could slice a fresh spleen into paper-thick slices, roast and serve it while the one who supplied it was still breathing. I remember, Bof, how you brought me to meet him and told me to learn everything he knows. I remember the way you uttered that word, "everything." I was a diligent student, Uncle Bof.

Someday I'll be asked, "Who were you in Kilgore's time, Gruezak?". That's probably how I'll answer: a cook. I just hope I won't be hearing these questions while drawn over a rack.

Day 21 Day 21 Dargem's diary. Entry 260:

Dargem Dargem: A woman on a ship is trouble; that's what Erathian sailors think. This is actually the case, and it's quite understandable. On a long voyage, the male crew will sooner or later get at each other's throats if one of them enjoys female company, while the others do not. For this very reason, the pirates never even take women captive—they just throw them overboard.

However, most of the female population of Regna can hardly be characterized as timid housewives. Some female pirates have become legends of no smaller caliber as the best male captains. Of course, few girls in Regna have the guts to become regular sailors—this is a difficult and taxing job, fraught with constant risk. There is a stratum of Priestesses of the Sea in this society—they are considered full-fledged crew members, but no one forces them to scrub the deck or stretch the sails.

They can hardly be called cultists, although they observe rituals originating from the religion of some small people once assimilated by pirates. Rather, they are battle mages, supporting the crew with simple but effective spells. Male pirates largely perceive them as comrades-in-arms; but that's before going ashore, of course. It is worth noting, however, that some of these priestesses are very talented spellweavers of no smaller power than, say, druids. They command great influence and maintain close ties with the most reputable captains and admirals.

Day 22 Day 22 Dargem's diary. Entry 261:

Dargem Dargem: We should be on our guard! There is information that Adelaide, the ice priestess, will soon invade the region. Well, I, for one, am not afraid of her silly tricks with icicles. She'll regret getting in the way of Kilgor and I!

Day 28 Day 28 Dargem's diary. Entry 263:

Dargem Dargem: What is known about the Nix?

They are an ancient race of humanoid amphibians. They differ from the Tatalian lizardmen in their larger size and emerald-colored scales. Also important is the fact that they prefer to live in salt water; they actually tend to spend more time in the depths than on land. Maybe the two species are related to an extent, but hardly greater than, say, goblins and ogres. The Nix once engaged in piracy, attacking ships and coercing tribute out of coastal settlements. This barbaric lifestyle, as well as constant internecine wars, brought the Nix to the verge of extinction.

They were scattered all over the world, and many ended up being enslaved. I've known these creatures since I lived in Nighon. We often used Nix laborers to work in flooded mines. Recently, however, they have managed to forget their old feuds and have reached out to the pirates of Regna. That was a wise decision: it gave their race powerful patrons.

An adult Nix is no weaker than an ogre or a troll, and armed with his weapon of choice, trident, he becomes a veritable death machine. For this reason, Regnan captains respect and value these creatures highly, and Nix can often be found at the forefront of their hosts.

Day 49 Day 49 Dargem's diary. Entry 264:

Dargem Dargem: An urgent report came, telling about the soon-expected arrival of the wizard Astral in these parts! I think I've heard of this rascal before. He professionally messes with the heads of enemy soldiers, and is likely capable of other dirty tricks as well. If the scouts are not exaggerating, then Astral is accompanied by Titans. Apparently, he is dead set on vanquishing Kilgor. I cannot let that happen! No Titans will help him defeat our hordes. The old fool will crawl away in disgrace!

Day 50 Day 50 From an unsent letter by Gruezak:

Gruezak Gruezak: Bof, I'll just pretend I never received your last letter with instructions. Don't forget: I have a lot of interesting things to share, should someone be willing to listen. For one, there's a captivating story about how Kilgore circumvented Boragus's law on the size of clan leaders' life guard by designating his extra men as kitchen staff on the registers submitted to the Duke. About the person who put the very idea of such a trick into his oaken head. About how Bo... the very mastermind personally recruited these "knife and brazier workers", and about what he taught them. What... recipes. About the exquisite treats the chieftains who abhorred Kilgore's rise would receive from this kitchen.

Of course, now, right after yours... our lord has proved his right to power in the only way worthy of a barbarian—by force, that is—this information is useless. But what if the seed falls into fertile soil a few years from now, with the clans already weary of his rule? What if they find out what a rotten foundation underlies the shrine you and Kija are erecting around the figure of our brave ruler? Think about it, Bofmog. Think carefully before giving me ultimatums and forcing me to risk my skin. I don't care about Dargem. I will say more: not only was he disrespectful to me, he even dared to threaten me, and I would like him to pay for that—but you yourself taught me that in our line of work, one cannot give in to feelings.

It would be small challenge for me to make sure the hireling does not survive the last fight, and the reward Kilgor sent him... disappears, but I found signs that someone other than myself is keeping an eye on him a well. This is someone who already counts on the money and would definitely disapprove of your plans to ensure yourself a safety net through a little embezzlement, just in case something unforeseen and premature befalls our ruler. And I'm not prepared to pay with my life for your greed.

Day 70 Day 70 Dargem's diary. Entry 265:

Dargem Dargem: It seems that the last enemy general is about to arrive here at the head of his army. The famous knight, Sir Mullich, decided to throw his gauntlet in this war. He is preparing to march here with a group of archangels. I must admit that this foe is our biggest threat thus far. Just how accomplished a warrior Sir Mullich is can be judged by the fact that he is no more allowed to ride in jousting tournaments, so that others would have a chance to shine. However, an all-out war is no tilt, and I am not bound by any rules here! That being said, we should make proper preparations; It's not worth taking risks when victory is so close and the enemy is about to falter. Perhaps I won't even have to pummel Mullich with my own hands—if I manage to distract his attention from Kilgore's headquarters, the time gained thus should be enough for reinforcements from Krewlod to arrive. Once they're here, the enemy coalition will have no choice but to retreat.

Rumors

Title Message
Adelaide Adelaide is rumored to be assembling a combined army.
Astral They say Astral wasn't a wizard all his life—he was once considered a decent shooter.
Cave of Illusions They say that in the old days, in the mountains to the west, one could find the entrance to a mysterious cave. At some point, it disappeared without a trace. I wonder why.
Mullich Sir Mullich prefers to rely on flying creatures in battle. He also somehow got his hands on a real cannon!
Old Version They say that back in the day, you could find huts built right in the middle of lakes in these parts! How do you like such tall tales?
Solmyr Solmyr himself is about to face Kilgor! What can orc bands do against his mighty thunderbolts?
Worms Huge worms have appeared in our parts! It's probably the wizards' fault—they throw out magical waste, then the worms eat it up and grow big!
Xanthor They say the Orcs captured some big-time scholar on the border with Erathia.

Objects

Events

Location Message
4, 104, 0 Ambush!

Guardians: 50 Crew Mate Crew Mates, 15 Gunslinger Gunslingers, 50 Rogue Rogues, 15 Sharpshooter Sharpshooters

Contents: 534 Gold Gold

6, 1, 0 It's horrendously cold in here...

Contents: -1 Morale Morale, -400 Movement Movement points
10, 22, 0 Murdoch Murdoch: "Hey, pal, thanks for saving me from those things!" The voice of the stranger in the odd-looking hat rang out.

Dargem Dargem: "How did you let them capture you?" I asked.

Murdoch Murdoch: "There were too many of them; I didn't have enough time to reload."

Dargem Dargem: "That's why I prefer good old-fashioned magic," I said weightily. "I am handy enough with the pistol and the arquebus, but there's no better feeling then giving a foe a mouthful of lightning!"

Murdoch Murdoch: "I owe you one. My name is Murdoch, and I'm a mercenary."

Dargem Dargem: "I'm Dargem," I said. "I'm a mercenary, too... sort of."

Murdoch Murdoch: "Well met, Dargem! To repay my debt, I will accompany you on your adventures, but for a limited time. Business calls me to Jadame.

Dargem Dargem: "That would be good: I could use some trusty companions. Oh, you know what! When in Jadame, if you happen to meet one little, mischievous..." I was loath to let my regular companions in on the details of my less-than-successful endeavor off the coast of the distant continent, so the rest of the conversation was kept low. Murdoch lifted his dark-hued spectacles, narrowed his pale eyes, and nodded. We shook hands.

18, 38, 0 Dargem Dargem: Suddenly, a phantom appeared next to me, taking the form of a red-haired woman! I drew my cutlass and prepared a bolt of lightning in my left hand. My bodyguards also drew their swords.

Dargem Dargem:"Who are you? Identify yourself!" I shouted.

Phantom: "Give... Mograin... oots... vitation," said the phantom, gesturing violently and occasionally seeming to distort for a moment.

Dargem Dargem:"What are you on about? I don't have any boots except my own... and no "vitation" for sure!" I said angrily, confused as to what was going on.

I didn't get an answer, though: the phantom was gone. Some spatial anomalies again, I thought warily as I put my cutlass away.

Man: "Cap'n, look! There's something glistening on the ground!" one of my men exclaimed.

Dargem Dargem:"Well, that's what I thought!" I said, looking closer. "Someone was experimenting with spatial beacons, but messed up the settings. Collect them! They are nothing more than pretty pieces of glass now."

Contents: 7 Gem Gems
23, 72, 0 Entry from Dargem's diary:

Dargem Dargem: I noticed that brightly colored tent from afar. I thought it might be the keymaster's, for some reason left unmarked on my map—but it was surprisingly small, which confused me. Then an odd-looking grey-haired man in a peculiar outfit appeared from somewhere. When he saw us, he waved, then ran into the tent. Just as I shouted at him, "Who are you?", the tent vanished into thin air! We searched the area carefully, but found no sign of the old man or his blue tent... There was, however, something valuable lying on the ground: he must have dropped it.

Contents: SpeculumSpeculum
46, 105, 0 Entry from Dargem's diary:

Dargem Dargem: We saw an unfamiliar ship: it popped up, as if out of nowhere. As we got closer, someone on its board shouted loudly, 'De Spanjaarden!', and then the ship just disappeared! What do these words mean? I've never heard anything like that. We must have encountered the legendary Flying Jadamean—it's said to bring bad luck.

Contents: -2 Luck Luck
48, 72, 0 Note: Only applies to Purple AI player

Low difficulty ally bonus

Contents: 10000 Gold Gold, 20 Wood Wood, 20 Ore Ore, 10 Mercury Mercury, 10 Sulfur Sulfur, 10 Crystal Crystal, 10 Gem Gems

61, 30, 0 Entry from Dargem's diary:

Dargem Dargem: A puff of smoke from over the hill caught my attention. I decided to check it out. To my surprise, I found a halfling farmstead! With all my rage, I let a bolt of lightning at the nearest shack. The house burst into flames, and the little bastards scattered in terror. I laughed ominously, sent a few more bolts after them, and then snatched a musket from a companion's hands and fired a shot.

Let those dirty midgets remember Dargem! Let them run all the way to Jadame and complain to their kin!

I hate the halflings, their nasty chieftess Henrietta, and her friend, the old goof Frederick. If they dare get in my way again, I won't be playing by gentlemen's rules!

After quenching my thirst for revenge, I decided to replenish my supplies a little. By way of robbery, of course. I'll see if someone dares say I didn't deserve it!

62, 12, 0 Entry from Dargem's diary:

Dargem Dargem: Today, I met a famous scholar named Lex. We sat by the campfire, trading stories. Lex told me that somewhere in the void between worlds, huge chunks of stone are flying, on which people and other creatures live—and these stones seem to form new worlds like ours. To be honest, it sounded like ravings of a madman to me. Flying rocks? They are heavy and inevitably fall! Still, some food for thought.

76, 64, 0 Kilgor Kilgor: "Dargem? What the hell?!" Kilgor growled from the wall, surprised.
80, 63, 0 Note: Only applies to RedBlue AI players

Contents: +3 Luck Luck, +3 Morale Morale, Nullify Movement Movement points
84, 52, 0
84, 58, 0
107, 37, 0 		Note: Only applies to RedBlue AI players

Contents: Nullify Movement Movement points

90, 52, 0 Ogre Mage Cyclops King Ogres and Cyclopes: "Good to see you, mercenary! We have cooped up here to hide from the sorcerers' wrath, but we will gladly help you!"

Contents: 15 Ogre Mage Ogre Magi, 5 Cyclops King Cyclops Kings
103, 25, 0 Entry from Dargem's diary:

Dargem Dargem: I had an utterly dreadful dream today! In it, I worked at an observatory lost in the mountains. It was equipped with huge telescopes that transmitted information to a crystal ball. Suddenly, something went wrong with the telescopes: the feed from them began to stutter. It was night outside, and I was very scared, but I had to check out the telescopes and find out what was wrong. I was shaking with terror at the thought of going out into the mountains in the middle of the night! I had a pony in the stable to ride on. I was just trying to mount when I fell and woke up. How good I felt after finding out that it was merely a dream!

Contents: -2 Morale Morale
2, 94, 1 Note: Only applies to Blue AI player on impossible difficulty

Bonus for max difficulty level

Contents: 93 Halberdier Halberdiers, 13 Zealot Zealots, 15 Arch Mage Arch Magi, 8 Naga Queen Naga Queens, 3 Titan Titans, 34 Steel Golem Steel Golems

2, 102, 1 Note: Only applies to Blue AI player on impossible difficulty

Bonus for max difficulty level

Contents: 87 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins, 56 Crusader Crusaders, 16 Champion Champions, 5 Archangel Archangels, 132 Obsidian Gargoyle Obsidian Gargoyles, 41 Genie Genies

Towns

Location Player Type Name
86, 73, 0 Tan Stronghold -
88, 95, 0 Tan Cove Kraken Bay
48, 70, 0 Purple Stronghold -
76, 63, 0 Purple Stronghold Wildblade
20, 26, 0 Red Castle -
54, 26, 0 Red Castle Thundertown
5, 5, 0 Blue Tower -
91, 3, 0 Blue Tower Star Grove
5, 47, 0 Stronghold -
104, 56, 0 Castle -

Heroes

Location Player Hero
87, 74, 0 Tan Gruezak Gruezak the Barbarian
88, 96, 0 Tan Dargem Dargem the Navigator
9, 2, 0 Tan Imprisoned Murdoch Murdoch the Mercenary
13, 28, 1 Tan Imprisoned Elmore Elmore the Captain
48, 70, 0 Purple Oris Oris the Battle Mage
48, 71, 0 Purple Dessa Dessa the Battle Mage
76, 63, 0 Purple Kilgor Kilgor the Barbarian
21, 25, 0 Red Ingham Ingham the Cleric
54, 27, 0 Red Beatrice Beatrice the Knight
56, 28, 0 Red Theodorus Theodorus the Wizard
0, 98, 1 Red Adelaide Adelaide the Cleric
5, 6, 0 Blue Iona Iona the Alchemist
7, 1, 0 Blue Fafner Fafner the Alchemist
92, 4, 0 Blue Solmyr Solmyr the Wizard
93, 5, 0 Blue Cuthbert Cuthbert the Cleric
0, 94, 1 Blue Astral Astral the Wizard
0, 102, 1 Blue Sir Mullich Sir Mullich the Knight

Monsters

Location Type Result
25, 105,0 Enchanter Enchanters "What do you want? Go away! Don't interfere with our experiments!"
70, 90, 0 Air Elemental Air Elementals It seems that some wild elementals are preventing the Priestesses of the Sea from leaving their hideout.
84, 95, 0 Mighty Gorgon Mighty Gorgons "Moooo!"
92, 91, 0 Monk Monks "Ye ungodly heretics!"
96, 90, 0 Halberdier Halberdiers "What are these stinking pirates doing here?"

Seer's Huts

Location Quest Reward Messages

25, 60, 0 		Defeat:
Red Dragon Red Dragons
at (25, 56, 0) 		5 Behemoth Behemoths Proposal: I'm breeding Behemoths here. Red dragons have been flying in from the north of the ridge lately, stealing my young! If you take out the monsters, I will reward you handsomely.
Progress: The dragons are very close by, but you will need a decent army to kill them.
Completion: Thank you for saving my sweet babies! They're safe now, and I can give a few younger ones to your army.

36, 48, 0 		Be:
Murdoch Murdoch the Mercenary 		Pendant of HolinessPendant of Holiness Proposal: My good friend Murdoch was about to embark on an adventure to another continent. Before leaving, he decided to hunt some mysterious monsters. He said they had heads like squids, or... hell knows, I'm not a fisherman! He's been gone for a while, and I'm worried.
Progress: Have you heard from Murdoch?
Completion: Murdoch! How glad I am to see you in good health, old sport! Give this bauble to your pirate friends—I think they'll need it in the future.

95, 59, 0 		Return with:
15 Monk Monks 		15 Cyclops Cyclopes Proposal:

Dargem Dargem: A cyclops tribe lives here. They are tired of preachers who keep coming year after year, trying to turn them away from the faith of their ancestors. Killing them would be too easy: the cyclopes want to eat them! They ask me to bring about 15 holy men for lunch; then the gorged cyclops tribe will join me!
Progress: No lunch, no deal!
Completion:
Cyclops Cyclopes: Finally: a hearty lunch and a proper payback for the irksome preachers' blasphemy! Bring them here now: our bellies are growling!


20, 45, 1 		Defeat:
Beatrice Beatrice the Knight 		10 Gunslinger Gunslingers Proposal: Hail to you, brother! Damn Beatrice, the self-proclaimed pirate and bandit hunter, had us trapped in this hole. If you take our revenge on that arrogant woman, we'll join you.
Progress: Beatrice is still in Erathia's service.
Completion: Great job, brother! Are you ready to take us into your gang?

85, 69, 1 		Be:
Elmore Elmore the Captain 		(none) Proposal:

Dargem Dargem: It seems that recently, pirates have developed a sensible but irksome custom of locking their houses. I guess Elmore lives here; I'll have to find him if I want to visit his place.
Progress: Only Elmore can open the door.
Completion:

Elmore Elmore: "Thank you for saving me, Dargem!" Elmore exclaimed and bowed dramatically, taking a knee.

Dargem Dargem: "Enough of the honors! Let's go have a chat," I grumbled, not without a silent sigh. I must admit that I enjoyed receiving the honors, but I didn't want to overindulge myself in the company of Regnans.


Be:
Dargem Dargem the Navigator 		+2  Attack skill Proposal:

Elmore Elmore: "I've had absolutely no luck lately! I keep getting locked up," Elmore said angrily.
Progress: Elmore will only talk to Dargem.
Completion:

Dargem Dargem: "Bad luck, huh?" I chuckled.

Elmore Elmore: "It's probably that old business in the tomb! I got into one... everything must have been cursed there! Ever since, I keep getting caught by knights and demons... even some talking lobsters," Elmore sighed, and began rummaging through his trunk.

Dargem Dargem: "Talking lobsters? Where did you meet them?"

Elmore Elmore: "Never mind! They're unlikely to still be there!" The pirate waved me off. "You'd better try this!"

Dargem Dargem: "And what's that?" I asked, looking at a bowl with a pestle. There was some green stuff in it.

Elmore Elmore: "Paste made from rare mountain berries. Barbarians eat it to get stronger.

Dargem Dargem: "Are you and Miriam conspiring? Both of you seem to have developed an alarming desire to put all sorts of disgusting things into your mouths..." I grumbled.

Reluctantly, I scooped up some of the paste with my finger. The smell was vile, as if someone had already eaten these berries once. I held my breath and licked my finger. A wave of warmth spread through my body, my vision sharpened, and my movements became smooth and precise. Should I finish the treat?

Quest Guards

Location Quest Reward Messages

14, 30, 0
51, 53, 1 		Be:
Dargem Dargem the Navigator 		(remove) Proposal: The guards here say they have orders to only let Dargem pass.
Progress: The guards here will only let Dargem pass.
Completion: At last, it is Dargem. Do you wish to pass?

14, 68, 0
51, 51, 0
96, 53, 0 		Be:
Tan player 		(remove) Proposal: The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.
Progress: The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.
Completion: The guards note your tan flag and offer to let you pass. Do you accept?

54, 30, 0 		Return after:
Month 1, Week 1, Day 5 		(remove) Proposal: Closed till month 1, week 1, day 5.
Progress: Closed till month 1, week 1, day 5.
Completion: You are free to go through now. Do you wish to pass?

98, 17, 0 		Return after:
Month 1, Week 3, Day 3 		(remove) Proposal: Closed till month 1, week 3, day 3.
Progress: Closed till month 1, week 3, day 3.
Completion: You are free to go through now. Do you wish to pass?

1, 94, 1 		Return after:
Month 2, Week 4, Day 2 		(remove) Proposal: Closed till month 2, week 4, day 2.
Progress: Closed till month 2, week 4, day 2.
Completion: You are free to go through now. Do you wish to pass?

1, 98, 1 		Return after:
Month 1, Week 4, Day 6 		(remove) Proposal: Closed till month 1, week 4, day 6.
Progress: Closed till month 1, week 4, day 6.
Completion: You are free to go through now. Do you wish to pass?

1, 102, 1 		Return after:
Month 3, Week 4, Day 1 		(remove) Proposal: Closed till month 3, week 4, day 1.
Progress: Closed till month 3, week 4, day 1.
Completion: You are free to go through now. Do you wish to pass?

Quest Gates

Location Quest Reward Messages

9, 70, 0
94, 81, 1 		Be:
Tan player 		(pass) Proposal: The guards here say they will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.
Progress: The guards here will only let those who fly the tan flag pass.
Completion: The guards note your tan flag and offer to let you pass. Do you accept?

Pandora's Boxes

Location Type Result
50, 52, 1 Pandora's Box Note: ONLY applies on easy, medium, and hard difficulties.

Guardians: 215 Troglodyte Troglodytes, 189 Infernal Troglodyte Infernal Troglodytes, 44 Beholder Beholders, 39 Evil Eye Evil Eyes, 9 Red Dragon Red Dragons

Contents: +1  Attack skill, +1  Defense skill, +1  Power skill, +1  Knowledge skill, +5000 Gold Gold

Other objects

Location Type Result
2, 75, 0 Shipwreck
Guardians: 50 Wight Wights

Contents: Shaman's PuppetShaman's Puppet, 5000 Gold Gold

2, 80, 0 Shrine of Magic Thought  Anti-Magic
3, 77, 0 Shipwreck
Guardians: 15 Wight Wights

Contents: 3000 Gold Gold

3, 85, 0 Ocean Bottle Do they call you by your name?
10, 72, 0 Witch Hut Fire Magic Fire Magic
13, 6, 0 Shrine of Magic Gesture  Visions
14, 79, 0 Warrior's Tomb Endless Sack of GoldEndless Sack of Gold
14, 100, 0 Beholders' Sanctuary
Guardians: 75 Beholder Beholders

Contents: Armor of WonderArmor of Wonder, 5000 Gold Gold

26, 95, 0 Derelict Ship
Guardians: 40 Water Elemental Water Elementals

Contents: Ladybird of LuckLadybird of Luck, 4000 Gold Gold

30, 48, 0 Sign Hidden Valley
31, 30, 0 Crypt
Guardians: 25 Skeleton Skeletons, 20 Zombie Zombies, 5 Wight Wights

Contents: 2000 Gold Gold

33, 1, 0 Scholar +1  Attack skill
36, 103,0 Shipwreck
Guardians: 25 Wight Wights

Contents: Glyph of GallantryGlyph of Gallantry, 4000 Gold Gold

40, 95, 0 Ocean Bottle What question can't be answered with a "No"?
42, 72, 0 Witch Hut Pathfinding Pathfinding
46, 1, 0 Blue Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 25 Arch Mage Arch Mages, 35 Enchanter Enchanters, 25 Arch Mage Arch Mages
49, 101,0 Shipwreck Survivor Necklace of Ocean GuidanceNecklace of Ocean Guidance
51, 84, 0 Beholders' Sanctuary
Guardians: 100 Beholder Beholders

Contents: Necklace of DragonteethNecklace of Dragonteeth, 6000 Gold Gold

53, 0, 0 Abandoned Mine
Guardians: 100-200 Harpy Hag Harpy Hags

Contents: Crystal Crystal Mine

54, 29, 0 Red Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 5 Archangel Archangels, 25 Zealot Zealots, 35 Crusader Crusaders, 25 Zealot Zealots, 5 Archangel Archangels
61, 7, 0 Witch Hut Air Magic Air Magic
62, 102,0 Ocean Bottle How fast should a hydra run to not hear the clink of a sword tied to its tail?
68, 80, 0 University Any four random skills except Diplomacy, Eagle Eye, Necromancy, Scholar
68, 80, 0 Derelict Ship
Guardians: 40 Water Elemental Water Elementals

Contents: Spirit of OppressionSpirit of Oppression, 4000 Gold Gold

71, 34, 0 Witch Hut Luck Luck
73, 45, 0 Red Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 100 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins, 5 Angel Angels, 25 Zealot Zealots, 100 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins, 25 Zealot Zealots, 5 Angel Angels, 100 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins
74, 20, 0 Shrine of Magic Mystery  Frenzy
75, 74, 0 Sign Sometimes, where a place seems to be completely empty, something interesting is hidden there.
77, 97, 0 Shrine of Magic Gesture  Protection from Air
77, 103,0 Derelict Ship
Guardians: 20 Water Elemental Water Elementals

Contents: 3000 Gold Gold

79, 5, 0 Shrine of Magic Incantation  View Air
81, 4, 0 Sign Caution! Possible avalanche!
83, 84, 0 Beholders' Sanctuary
Guardians: 50 Beholder Beholders

Contents: Torso of LegionTorso of Legion, 3000 Gold Gold

85, 60, 0 Tan Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 35 Corsair Corsairs, 15 Sea Witch Sea Witches, 5 Nix Warrior Nix Warriors, 15 Sea Witch Sea Witches, 35 Corsair Corsairs
89, 68, 0 Witch Hut Logistics Logistics
92, 46, 0 Shrine of Magic Gesture  Lightning Bolt
95, 51, 0 Red Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 45 Marksman Marksmen, 20 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins, 10 Champion Champions, 20 Royal Griffin Royal Griffins, 45 Marksman Marksmen
97, 12, 0 Sign Bracada
97, 47, 0 Warrior's Tomb Cape of VelocityCape of Velocity
97, 80, 0 Shrine of Magic Incantation  Shield
98, 16, 0 Blue Garrison (non-removable)
Guardians: 5 Titan Titans, 300 Master Gremlin Master Gremlins, 50 Arch Mage Arch Mages, 35 Naga Queen Naga Queens, 50 Arch Mage Arch Mage, 300 Master Gremlin Master Gremlins, 5 Titan Titans
99, 73, 0 Sign Beware of surprise attacks!
103, 0, 0 Sign Listen to the voices of the void...
105, 85,0 Shipwreck
Guardians: 25 Wight Wights

Contents: Clover of FortuneClover of Fortune, 4000 Gold Gold

106, 69,0 Black Tower
Guardians: 1 Green Dragon Green Dragon

Contents: Inexhaustible Cart of OreInexhaustible Cart of Ore, 2000 Gold Gold

107, 74,0 Crypt
Guardians: 25 Skeleton Skeletons, 20 Zombie Zombies, 5 Wight Wights

Contents: 2000 Gold Gold

107,103,0 Shipwreck
Guardians: 25 Wight Wights

Contents: Cards of ProphecyCards of Prophecy, 4000 Gold Gold

15, 31, 1 Shipwreck Survivor Cape of ConjuringCape of Conjuring
20, 50, 1 Derelict Ship
Guardians: 20 Water Elemental Water Elementals

Contents: 3000 Gold Gold

23, 72, 1 Shipwreck
Guardians: 50 Wight Wights

Contents: Equestrian's GlovesEquestrian's Gloves, 5000 Gold Gold

35, 24, 1 Shrine of Magic Gesture  Precision
35, 25, 1 Shipwreck Survivor Dead Man's BootsDead Man's Boots
53, 40, 1 Shipwreck Survivor Hideous MaskHideous Mask
58, 42, 1 Shipwreck
Guardians: 15 Wight Wights

Contents: 3000 Gold Gold

62, 36, 1 Beholders' Sanctuary
Guardians: 50 Beholder Beholders

Contents: Ring of LifeRing of Life, 3000 Gold Gold

64, 11, 1 Shrine of Magic Mystery  Clone
67, 70, 1 Seafaring Academy Leadership Leadership, Navigation Navigation, Offense Offense
91, 56, 1 Shipwreck
Guardians: 10 Wight Wights

Contents: 2000 Gold Gold

95, 31, 1 Shipwreck
Guardians: 10 Wight Wights

Contents: 2000 Gold Gold

96, 82, 1 Corpse SpeculumSpeculum
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