Of all the members of the party it is only you, Anstran, who truly understand the power of Grimstock, the Archmage of Admund Fort. Within the close community of the Shield Lands he has become a legendary figure, serving all the kings for the last four hundred years. He is respected in all fields of sorcery and many outsiders travel for miles to hear his counsel. It is difficult to categorise his position within the Shield Lands since all defer to him - even King Barrasain at times.

Ever since you hefted the Blade of Gaxx from it’s undead wielder you have felt a strange, nagging sensation deep within. This feeling goes beyond even the super-sense that is haragei, transcending your ability to be at one with your surroundings and becoming something more profound. Now, in the grasslands of Furyondy you get the distinct impression that the nagging sensation is Grimstock - or to be precise his awareness - and that he has somehow been studying your progress closely, particularly with respect to the blade.

Your knowledge of Grimstock goes way back. Your father, Andriath, The 10th Earl of Warvik, gained great favour with King Barrasain when, during one of many skirmishes with the northern bandits, he is supposed to have saved Grimstock’s life in a moment of great danger. A modest man, your father never dwells on the tale, playing down his role considerably. As a boy, however, you received the very best training in all areas and even then you can remember a similar nagging sensation. The son of an Earl would normally gain special treatment but you somehow felt more priveleged than the rest.

You recall one especially strange incident, which only now seems relevant, when - at the age of thirteen - a strange, dark-robed man with pale eyes came to you one night. Throughout your career you have always reasoned that this was a dream but now you are convinced it was not. The figure studied you as you lay on a bed. It was impossible to shape features to the face as they appeared to move with a fluidity that spoke of sorcery.

"Lie still, young Anstran," the figure said with a musical voice. "I am not here to harm you as you might imagine, nor am I here to help you."

"Then why are you here ?" You were puzzled.

"To test you !" The figure’s eyes seemed to sparkle with insane pleasure. Without warning his hand reached into your chest and you flinched. The skin was untouched yet the hand dove deep within and your mind reeled at the pain. Eventually, in triumph, the figure pulled out a small sparkling jewel and smiled.

"Welcome, young Anstran !" it yelled. "Welcome into our world." With that he replaced the jewel and made a curious gesture before him. You felt immediately dizzy and he became indistinct, as if he was melting into the night. "I welcome the world’s newest Mystic, Anstran..."

With that it was gone...

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