87
With a shudder, you step outside the pentacle and speak the sibilant words of the ‘forbidden tome’ known as the Song of the Dead. The ghost of the priest sighs and says, ‘It is done. Take the Amulet from the body of my former life. It will serve as a charm against the evil dead.’ You take the Amulet, which hangs by a silver chain around the dead priest’s neck, and place it around your own. (Mark this Amulet as a Special Item on your Action Chart.)
All is silent. Slowly, the cell grows colder. The sound of distant moaning fills your ears, followed by a mournful wailing that chills the soul, which gradually rises in pitch and volume. The dead have come to claim their vengeance. The use of the Power of Evocation has cost you 2 WILLPOWER points. A howling wind sweeps through the cell and the door bursts open. You turn and grab Shan’s arm. He has stood, pale and rigid with fear, throughout your exchange with the dead.
‘Quickly,’ you hiss. ‘Come with me.’ You run through the door and into the corridor outside. Shadow forms are flowing out of the walls and floor, and everywhere spirit shapes fly in all directions. You turn to your right and see the horribly mutilated corpse of the gaoler. Still clenched in his mortifying fist is a small Dagger. You may take this item if you wish. (Remember to mark it on your Action Chart under the Weapons section.)
If you wish to take the Gaoler’s Keys and free the other prisoners on this level, turn to 125.
If you wish to take the left stairway without delay, turn to 137.
If you wish to take the right stairway, turn to 212.