175

As Vandyan’s curse echoes around the hall, the transparent surface of the remaining bell-chamber glazes over. Then there is a loud cracking sound and suddenly the crystal chamber collapses in an untidy heap. The rune located above it remains in position. It now hangs suspended in mid-air, but the column of dark mist that inhabited the core of the chamber swirls around the shattered remains like a small tornado. From its centre there comes a hideous shriek and a lance of fear stabs at your heart when suddenly you recall having heard this terrible sound once before. This dark shadow is Zorkaan the Soultaker, the entity that you encountered at the clearing in the Grochod Forest, the evil presence that you disturbed as it fed upon the psychic remains of the innocent Slovian prisoners slain and buried there.

The whirling shadow of Zorkaan gathers speed at a frightening pace. You sense with dread that it is leeching energy from the rune so that it may attack you with the full might of its devastating psychic powers.

If you possess a Red Vial and wish to use it, turn to 182.

If you possess a Blue Vial and wish to use it, turn to 136.

If you possess a Yellow Vial and wish to use it, turn to 154.

If you do not possess any of these vials, or if you should decide not to make use of them, turn to 75.