Rules Shadow

8/4/2019 Rules Shadow

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Shadow Realms

LRP

2009


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Shadow Realms

Welcome to the Western Realms, more often referred to as the Shadow Realms due to the harsh nature of

this land where high mountains meet with deep forests and barren hills run to an uncharted sea. The

population of humans that do live here are constantly waging war against evil forces: Orcs, Ogres, Sorcerers

and the living dead. However, these lands are also the homelands of some of the ancient races, Elves and

Dwarves, who also fight to stop the waves of chaos overrunning their land.

Laythorn Moontouch, Elven Chronicler of the Realms

IntroductionShadow Realms is a third generation live-role-play club created in 1991 by Mark and Paula Dollar. This is

the latest version of the Shadow Realms rulebook and we thank all those who have contributed over the years.

You may notice a few changes and if you have any comments or questions please speak to a Shadow Realms

referee. We welcome suggestions on how we might improve the system and we are continually updating and

play-testing.

The club has always prided itself on encouraging character development, allowing each player as muchchoice as possible when creating and advancing their characters. This is achieved by offering a wide selection

of character classes and races and by giving you the chance to obtain skills that may not normally be

associated with your chosen career.

Every character starts off with the same basic skills whether you wish your character to be a warrior, wizard,

rogue or ranger. We understand that you may wish to play something a little different from the classes

covered by our system and ask that you speak to one of the Shadow Realms referees. We will work with you

to work it into the system as we want you to be able to play whatever concept you choose.

To find out more about Shadow Realms and how to get involved please check out the Shadow Realmswebsite:

www.shadowrealms.co.uk

About all that remains to be said is that we are here for your enjoyment, if you have comments (praise or

criticism) please speak to a referee as we can only improve with feedback from you.

Within this rulebook the use of he or she is for ease of explanation and in no way denotes that any

character class or type of character is more suited or only available to male or female role-players.


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The Basics

Combat

Combat is an important part of Shadow Realms and as it is so common the system is made to be simple as

possible while still allowing characters to develop skills in character to increase their chances of survival.

Within Shadow Realms there are six body locations and each location begins with only 1 hit point. Theselocations are: Head, Body, Right Arm, Left Arm, Right Leg and Left Leg. As mentioned later, armour will

boost the number of hits a location can endure before becoming useless as will the skills Dexterity and

Toughness (see Location and Armour).

When a location is reduced to ZERO hit points or less (i.e. -1, -2 etc.), it ceases to function. If a leg is reduced

to zero or below it cannot be used and the victim must drop to the knee of that leg and not move about. If it is

an arm that is damaged, the player must drop anything held by that arm. You cannot swap what you are

holding to the other hand, you must first drop it and then pick it up with the other arm. If it is the body that is

reduced to zero, the player must fall over and has the option of slipping into unconsciousness or screaming

uncontrollably (until suffering any further damage to the body or cured). Please note that if you take the

option of screaming uncontrollably, you are unable to do anything else (for example healing yourself as the

damage suffered stops you being able to carry out the necessary actions). If the head reaches zero then thecharacter is unconscious.

Should any LIMB or the HEAD reach -4 then it is deemed shattered and can only be healed by a Cleric with

the Set Bone spell. This could leave the character with some side effects (especially in the case of the head) at

the Referees discretion. Limbs reaching 6 are deemed severed or beyond repair. Only a powerful and

expensive restoration spell can regenerate or re-join the lost limb.

If the HEAD reaches 6 then it has been severed or damaged beyond repair and you are dead. It is important

to note that head hits are STRONGLY DISCOURAGED. However, we understand that they doaccidentally

happen. Anyone found continually delivering head hits will have their characterdiabolically mutilated.

In the case of the Body, at -8 your character is dead!

Shadow Realms asks all players to please role-play all of your hits. Having big chunks being cut out of

you with a sword hurts and bigger chunks will hurt more than smaller ones! The more you role-play,

the more skill points you will be awarded (see Skill points).

Bleeding and Counting down

If at any time you find yourself at zero or below to any location then that location is damaged and will begin to

bleed. Begin a count of60 seconds and then repeat that count over and over. Each time you get to 60, any

injured locations Bleed Down another point (from 1 you bleed to 2 and from there you bleed to 3 etc).

As soon as a bandage or tourniquet has been applied to a damaged or injured location or a healing potion has

been administered, the bleeding (and counting) stops.

A limb cannot bleed to shattered so if the arm, leg or head bleeds down to 5, it can be healed as normal: it

does not require the use of the Set Bone spell. However it can bleed to severed as it becomes irrepairable and

will have to have a Regenerate spell cast upon it.

Body: 0 is screaming / unconscious -1 to -7 is unconscious -8 is dead

Limbs: 0 to -3 damaged but healable -4 to -5 is shattered -6 is severed

Head: 0 to -3 unconscious but healable -4 to -5 is shattered -6 is dead


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Subdual DamageSometimes you might not actually want to kill what you come across (it has been known) and so to stop them

hurting themselves (or more to the pointyou) you wish to incapacitate them. To subdue an opponent properly,

a blunt weapon must be used on an unarmoured location, or if the attacker possesses the Open Handed

skill a swift punch will suffice.

Characters without unarmed combat, or a suitable weapon to smack the target with will not inflict

subdual damage but instead deal lethal damage. Please dont call subdue if you dont have the

necessary means to do so.

Subduing monsters: this will only work if the target does not see the blow coming and is unaware of

the danger, a single blow from a suitable weapon or a character with unarmed combat will subdue the

victim unless it is exceptionally tough. If the target is ready for combat, this technique may not work

due to their expectation to get hit.

Subduing players: to subdue a player character, you must do enough subdual damage to take the

location being hit to 0 or below. A single point of subdual damage lasts 60 seconds.

The victim has the option to choose to accept lethal damage over subdual if they wish

Please note: You lose 1 life point for every second time that you are subdued by a blow to the head.

Unarmed Combat / Open Handed Skill and Grappling

To use this skill you must never, ever, really hit someone any harder than a tap, and in most cases, it is

preferable not to have any contact whatsoever (like stage-fighting). Using this skill results in your character

inflicting lethal damage rather than just subdual to an opponent. Be sensible with it.

As with weapons, full swings also apply to unarmed combat. Flurries of rabbit style punches are nowhere near

as effective as a fully wound up haymaker. To actually injure your opponent in unarmed combat, full swingsmust be given to punches, kicks etc. If you cannot produce a full swing the blow(s) will be ignored and taken

only for the impact. Apart from the obvious, there are good reasons for this: if you are winding up properly to

strike a blow, your opponent will be able to prepare for it and this can avoid actually getting punched in the

face. Also if each blow is distinctive your opponent will be able to react properly to each distinctive strike

rather than have to tally up a barrage of flailing arms. Remember you are inflicting the same amount of

damage as an axe or sword with these blows so they are going to have to be pretty impressive strikes. You can

take Weapon Mastery or Strength to increase the damage you are doing unarmed. For the more creative,

armlocks, and other moves are also acceptable although each point of damage must be distinctively applied.

Unarmed Combat can also be used in grappling situations when countering a creatures strength. A character

without strength but with unarmed combat would be on equal footing when tussling with an opponent who

had strength (see below).

Example: Baldrick the Warrior hits Sara the rogue over the head with the pommel of his sword for

triple subdue. Sara has 2 hits to the head so falls over. Had the call been simply triple she would

now be on the floor bleeding to death, instead she counts to 60 and her head returns from 1 to 0. She

does this again until her head returns to a positive figure (in this case 2 minutes after being knockedout). She is no worse for wear except for an exceptional headache and a desire for revenge

Example: Baldrick the Warrior has jumped upon Thrud the Barbarian in an attempt to grapple him.

Thrud has strength and tries to use this to get Baldrick off, but as Baldrick has unarmed

combat, this doesnt work, and Baldrick hampers his enemy long enough for the party to help

him subdue his foe. In the next encounter he comes across Thruds brother who has strength

twice and tries the same tactic on him by jumping on his back. This works for a while until

Thruds brother catches one of his arms and throws him into the nearest tree. If Thruds

brother had tried to shrug Baldrick off, this would not have worked as Baldrick had unarmed

combat, but as he managed to grab a limb he could use his strength to break the grip.


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StrengthStrength represents how much force your character can put into your blows. In basic terms this means that a

character or monster can call double if they have one point of strength (or triple if they have two points

and so on). However strength is also relevant when subduing, restraining or throwing someone through a

hedge. Likewise it is also useful inpreventing these actions, however if you dont see the move coming, you

cant resist it. You can increase your strength as you advance in the game, and it is gauged in levels.

Characters without the strength skill are deemed to have strength at single, or level one. They do not need to

call strength as they have none. Characters who have bought the strength skill can call strength when

performing strength related actions. However, strength can be bought more than once, and calls such as triplestrength or quad strength are not unheard of, especially by monsters (see also Monster Strength Calls).

Monster Strength CallsMonsters usually have a strength level assigned to them for purposes of grappling etc. However some

creatures are so immensely physically strong that they have their own calls. Here are the three main ones:

Ogre Strength: Unless you have a strength level of 4 or quad forget it. However an Ogre could

feasibly be grappled by multiple opponents. Only the strongest can wrestle with Ogres.

Troll Strength: Unless you are a legendary hero, forget it! A Troll can tear you in half! Virtually no

one can wrestle a Troll (and survive). Even the toughest and most skilled characters

are likely to be shrugged off.

Demon Strength: It doesnt matter what youve got, a call of Demon Strength should send you flying

into the nearest bush. Even the mightiest character is like a rag doll to these monsters.

Damage CallsThe following damage calls may be heard at Shadow Realms. You may notice there is no Single call as it is

assumed than any blow without a call will cause a single point of damage.

Double: Deals two point of damage

Triple: Deals three points of damage

Quad: Deals four points of damage

Quin: I think you can work out this and anything higher for yourself

Knock Down: All projectile weapons cause knock down (usually called when the victim has forgotten!) Magic [number]: Deals magical damage, usually only applicable against magical creatures.

Spirit [number]: Damages the life force rather than the physical body (see Life Points).

Shatter: If this blow hits a weapon or piece of armour it is destroyed and will need a Mend spell. If it hits

an unarmoured location is will take it straight to 4 and it will require a Set Bone spell.

Sever: This blow does no damage to weapons or shields but will sever limbs instantly. If this strikes the

body or head then you are dead.

Through: This means that the blow has found a chink in your armour and is going straight through it into

you, or that it is being delivered by a weapon so sharp that it pierces the armour on the first hit leaving it

undamaged. If you are hit by through damage, then fall straight to the floor unless you have enough hits

(including Toughness and Dexterity) to take the damage.

Please note: Just because you can call something, doesnt mean you must! Please dont call your

maximum damage with every hit.

Example: Baldrick has taken dexterity twice. This means he has a 3 hit point base (see Dexterity). He

then wears leather armour on his chest giving him 4 hits to that location.Soe, if he was hit once to his body

for a Single Through, this would immediately negate the armour leaving him with three hits. The single

scrapes off one of his point of dexterity, leaving him with two hits left to the body. The armour is undamaged

and Baldrick is oka . In the next encounter he is struck b a Tri le Throu h and over he alls.


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Locations and ArmourArmour can be worn to give you extra hit points and therefore make you capable of surviving more blows.

Any unarmoured locations struck will take the full damage of the blow. Protecting your front with a

breastplate, for example, will not protect your back, even though it is the same location in our system.

Type of Armour Bonus Total Hits (not including Dexterity or Toughness)

Fur/Leather* +1 2

Heavy/Hardened Leather* +2 3

Studded Leather*/Ring Mail +3 4

Chainmail /Scale +4 5Plate +5 6

* These types of armour can be repaired using the Mend Armour skill or by a Repair spell once their

initial hit-points have been expended.

These types of armour can be repaired using the Mend Armour skill or by a Mend spell once their

initial hit-points have been expended.

Throughout the campaign, it may be possible to discover magical or otherwise special armour (for example:

Elven chain or Dwarven plate). Items such as these may have different properties and if found will be

explained by the Referee.

DexterityWhen Dexterity is taken it means that your character has improved their reactions so much that they are able

to dodge out of the way of blows. In reality what may happen is that the blow lands squarely on your chest, in

game terms what happens is that at the last second your character twists out of reach so that the blow is only

glancing, meaning that you can carry on fighting, or running away. However, if you get hit by an unexpected

blow (from behind for example), you cannot use your Dexterity to get out of the way and the blow takes full

effect. Your base hit points increase by one each time you take the skill. Dexterity points are deducted as

normal armour points when you get hit. Dexterity is only lost for the duration of an encounter and returns as

long as the character has at least 4 life points remaining.

Please note: You should react whenever you are hit as we expect you to try to roleplay dodging the

blows.

Anyone having taken the skill Dexterity and wearing 4 points of armour (chain mail or equivalent) or more

has the first point of dexterity negated by the weight of the armour and therefore must buy two points of

Dexterity to produce the effect of one when the armour is worn. Once the armour is taken off all Dexterity can

be applied as normal.

Example: Sara the Rogue has takenDexterity twice. This means she has a 3 hit point base. She thenwears leather armour to her chest and legs giving her 4 hits to those locations. If she was hit twice to her

body and once to each arm then her Dexterity would mean that she managed to effectively dodge the

attacks and she has 2 hits remaining to her arms and 2 to her body. Since she is on 4 life points, a rest at

the end of the combat is all that she requires to restore her Dexterity, so she once again has 3 hits to her

arms and head and 4 hits to her legs and body. In the next encounter she is hit for adouble to the leg from

behind and as she did not see the blow coming it ignores her dexterity and though her armour negates

some of the damage she is still on 0 to that leg and unable to walk. Luckily a healer is on hand with a

location potion and her wound is soon healed.


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ToughnessToughness is similar to Dexterity in that it enables you to take extra blows before falling over. However,

instead of enhancing your reflexes, it increases your body mass and density. The idea is extremely simple:

whereas an elf may be swift and agile, a barbarian is just big and tough (though these are just stereotypes and

there are exceptions). Unlike Dexterity, Toughness does count for unexpected blows as it is your body you

are developing, not your reflexes. However, also unlike dexterity, it does not automatically heal: you must

take extra location potion per level of toughness to heal yourself up to full health.

Please note: Dexterity hits are damaged first, followed by armour, followed by Toughness.

Magic in CombatSpells are often cast during combat both by monsters and players. We dont expect you to immediately

memorise the spell list to know how to react (youll pick that up as you go along), but there is a simple

guideline to follow until you know the spells better. Most spells are self explanatory, such as I shatter that

sword or Fear me!, so you can easily figure out how to react. However, some apply specific damage

against the target, such as: darts [1 point], missiles [3 points], bolts [5 points] and strikes [10 points] and this

damage is taken to the chest location unless the caster specifies otherwise.

If you are ever unsure about the effects of a spell, please fall over and then discretely get the attention of the

Referee or caster so that they can inform you of the gory details!

If you do know the effects of the spell please remember to react to it fully. A character may well be able

to take the damage dealt by a Magic Bolt but it should still throw them off their feet in spectacular

fashion.

Other pointers

When fighting, please do not repeatedly tap at your opponent (known as Machine Gunning). Any

damage given out in this way will be taken by the monster as one third of the damage done or ignored

completely. To be fully effective a weapon must be swung from the elbow for a dagger or short

weapon, from the shoulder for a long weapon and from the waist for a two handed weapon. The

weapons normally used in LRP are representations of large, heavy, crushing or slashing weapons (with the

obvious exception of daggers and spears), please treat them as such. This also applies to unarmed combat

(see below).

If you are struck by an arrow or bolt, fall over! Even if you can take the damage. Its the force of a shaft of

wood knocking you over not always the damage.

Grappling is allowed, but please ensure that you do so in a safe manner and that the person you are

grappling is content to do so. If you intend to grapple on an adventure, please check with the Referee

beforehand to find out which monsters you can grapple with. Please make sure that you are not carrying

dangerous equipment (e.g. glass bottles, sharp metal armour etc).

You must never thrust or stab with any weapon unless it is designed to do so (see a Referee to determine).

All weapons must be swung, in a safe manner.

Never lean the tips of swords on the ground as this is the quickest way to break them.

Do not deliberately aim for the groin or the head. Pull your blows: were not here to hurt people! If someone else is not pulling their blows, tell a Referee,

do not make it into your personal vendetta, otherwise it can get dangerous.

All weapons must be checked by a Shadow Realms Referee.

Do not shield charge or use shields as an offensive weapon. Shields must have foam edging and will be

checked by a Shadow Realms Referee.

Do not throw weapons or other objects that are not authorised as a Thrown Weapon (see Referee).

Please keep safety in mind but be aware that this is a contact hobby and Shadow Realms is a physical

club.


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Life PointsAlmost every character starts off with 6 Life Points (exceptions are noted under race or class). These are a

representation of your life essence: the force that keeps you alive. A characters life points can be affected by

certain magical attacks and by poisons and diseases. These life points can be regained up to their maximum

level by the use ofLife Potions, spells or a full nights sleep. Some races lose life points when they use their

innate abilities and these may be regained in the same way. These races may gain an extra life point for

concerted use of their abilities, awarded at the Referees discretion. Life points are automatically restored

after 4 hours sleep.

Most characters who reach 3 life points or below immediately feel weak and ill: the equivalent of having a

heavy flu. At 1 life point, you do not feel like fighting, walking or even standing. Any character reaching 0

life points is unconscious. Upon reaching -8 life points your character is dead.

Please note: You lose 1 life point every second time that you are knocked out by a blow to the head.

Any character that gains more life points than their maximum (usually through drinking too much Life

potion) goes mad and rushes around for as many minutes as they have life points over their maximum level,

or until knocked out. Their life then reverts to their maximum.

Warning: Exceeding your Life point maximum is potentially hazardous to your health!

Some monsters (particularly the undead) may be calling Spirit or Life Drain either with their weapons

or their touch (or by sucking your blood if they arethat sort of undead). This means that they drain one point

of life from you, which can be healed as normal.

Poisons and DiseasesThere are several forms of poison and disease in the system. However, if you are just told that you are

poisoned or diseased with no other special rules: immediately lose one life point and then lose one further life

every 5 minutes until cured (or deceased).

Blade Venoms

Some poisons are passed via magical means others are ingested, still others are spread on blades and inflicted

this way. These are a few examples of the more common blade venoms:Blade Venom Once spread on the blade these will add a certain modifier (depending on the potency)

to the damage being done with that weapon (e.g. +3).

Poison does not do any extra damage to armour. If the enemy mentioned above was wearing leather armour,

the first hit would only do standard damage as it hasnt penetrated the armour. However, the hits after that

would cause full damage to the location hit.

Sleep Venom Assuming this pierces the skin, it will instantly put the target to sleep for 5 minutes. It

may not work on larger creatures, or those with strong constitutions.

Paralysis Venom Assuming this pierces the skin, it will instantly paralyse the target for 2 minutes. It may

not work on larger creatures, or those with strong constitutions.

Please Note: The use of poisons is illegal in the Realms with strong penalties for those found using /

carrying it. If you are interested in being able to buy or make poison, please speak to a Referee.

Example: Sara the Rogue finds some +3 Blade Venom (which she identifies using the skillID

Poison). She has two points ofweapon mastery in dagger use and spreads the poison on it. She then goes

and stabs up an unarmoured enemy. The first hit does 6 venom, the next 5 venom, then 4 venom, then

3 venom, then the poison is used up and any further hits are just standard triples.


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PotionsHealing potions are magical liquids, brewed by alchemists, which close wounds and stop bleeding when

administered correctly. They act so fast that the wound appears to heal before your eyes, though the healing

process actually takes around five minutes to complete. Herbal bandages are similar in nature, though take

longer to complete the healing process, usually around ten minutes. Normal bandages have no healing

properties, although they do stop the wound from becoming any worse.

Although anyone can administer potions and tie bandages, to get the most out of them you need the skill

Discern Nature of Wound. This skill means that you have been taught how to administer potions and applyherbal bandages to the maximum effect. If you do not have this skill, administering potions becomes hit and

miss and you may end up pouring all of your potions down an injured person when they only needed one

dose. The healing process is not painless, a wounded area is still sore and weak even if it has been recently

healed so please roleplay this fact and dont simply jump up and start running around as soon as you have

been tended to. It is also impossible to heal yourself if you are unconscious.

Starting Characters may choose up to 4 points of basic potions or bandages to start with (e.g. 2 location

potions and 2 Life potions, or perhaps just 4 location potions). Potion and bandage prices may vary depending

on the campaign and the time of year. The Referees decision is final on price.

Location Potions: These cure the physical damage caused by weapons, offensive magics etc. They are

usuallyyellow in colour and on average cost 4 silver crowns.Life Potions: These cure the spiritual damage caused to the Life Force by poison, disease or spiritual

attacks. They are usually redin colour and cost 5 silver crowns.

Herbal Bandages: Herbal Bandages cure 1 point of location damage, (unless made or applied by someone

with the Advanced Healing skill). Herbal Bandages cost around 2 silver crowns

(depending on their potency).

Alchemists can make potions that have effects other than basic healing, for example potions that cure disease,

neutralise poison or temporarily add to your strength or toughness. It is said that some alchemists can make

potions that replicate the effect of almost any spell in the Realms spellbookfor the right price. Please speak

to a Referee if you are interested in buying any less common potions.

Miruvor:

This Elven potion cures either Life or Location damage, but it will go to whichever is needed most. For

example, if an arm is at -1 but the life force is at -5 and one dose of Miruvor is administered, then it will heal

the life first. The colour of Miruvor depends on which race of Elf has made it:

Wood Elves and Wild Elves use Green Winter and Ice Elves use White

High Elves and Water Elves use Blue Drow use Black.

Miruvor cannot be bought because it is given and controlled by the Elven Lore-Wardens. Their generosity is

linked to the individual Elfs progression in society. The more you give back to the people (including

monetary donations), the more Miruvor you will have access to. Due to the nature of the ingredients required,

Miruvor may be harder to get hold of during winter or times of need: this is enforced at the Refereesdiscretion.

If you have no physical representation for your potions or bandages then you have no potions or bandages.

All you need for a phys rep potion is an old miniatures bottle filled with coloured water (up to 5 points of

potion per bottle). Alternatively plastic bottles can be covered in leather. Bandages can simply be ripped up

old sheets. Most potions are on a one for one ratio (i.e. for one hit, one location potion is needed).

Only one bandage per location is allowed until that wound is healed.

The maximum amount of potion or poison that any one person can carry is 30 doses.


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CostumeWhilst we understand that new players may struggle to put together appropriate costumes, we do expect that

after your first few adventures you will have developed your costume to a similar standard to others in the

club. The Shadow Realms Staff will be happy to advise and assist you in reaching this standard. All branches

have a limited number of very basic costumes and weapons that can be lent out for a small fee (to cover wear

and tear) but we would prefer that you make every effort to make or buy your own. We produce our own

weapons and have addresses of several companies who also make weapons. If weapons have not been brought

after a few adventures we will politely suggest that you do start to buy your own!

Take pride in your costumes. If your costume is good then this will encourage others to have good costume

and when everyone is in realistic costume it is easier to suspend disbelief and fully enter into the spirit of

the game. Please try to get costumes in a medieval-fantasy style and try to use natural fabrics, or synthetics

that look real (rather than shiny man-made materials). Also, please try to use colours in keeping with the feel

of the event.

Shadow Realms discourages the following with hefty sarcasm and sometimes a large stick with nails in:

Anoraks White trainers Blue Jeans Plastic Bags

Modern Rucksacks Lime green and other florescent colours

If you must bring mobile phones, please make sure they are hidden and switched off and be aware that you

are responsible for them. Also, please keep watches hidden as they werent invented.

SHADOW REALMS can take no responsibility for anything lost or damaged on adventure (especially

items from the above list which we reserve the right to damage or lose personally!)

MonsteringMonsters are the people that players meet during the course of an adventure, acting out many roles throughout

the day, whether they are orcs for the players to bash or a helpful wandering Druid. Monstering is FREE as it

is hard work but often very rewarding. Without a monster crew an adventure cannot run. If you are

monstering, please turn up in dark clothing and bring a belt, some gloves and a hood if possible. As there is a

limit to the amount of monster kit any club can provide it is good etiquette to try to bring these basics and

monsters who make the effort to bring good kit are more likely to be considered for NPC (Non-PlayerCharacter) parts.

Sometimes monsters wearing heavy costume or masks cannot hear spells cast at them or feel every hit planted

on them. Please do not scream and yell at the monster if you feel hard done by: they are doing their best.

There might even be a very good reason why the monsters are ignoring the partys efforts to turn them into

carrion, and they are not going to disrupt the action by stopping to explain this. Referees are the go-betweens

for the monsters and the players. If you have any queries or problems about the monsters (or vice versa) then

speak to the Referee rather than the person involved.

To ensure a reliable monster crew, Shadow Realms operates a policy of rewarding those that make our

adventures work for us. Free adventures will be awarded for consistently good monstering.

AdventuresIf you are planning to attend the next adventure please try to contact us in advance. This is particularly

applicable if you are intending to play as marking up on the day delays the start of the adventure.

There are a limited number of player places and this is usually based on the number of monsters. If you have

not contacted us in advance stating that you intend to then we may be forced to ask you to monster.


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The RefereeAt Shadow Realms you will find a small group of dedicated individuals who have played and monstered for

several years and developed their knowledge of the system, the rules and their ability to deal with unexpected

situations to a great extent. These individuals have progressed to being Referees and if you have any

questions about the system: be it background, rules or character advice, these are the people to ask. Though

they cannot hope to know everything, they can almost always help. It is also their job to make sure that

everyone abides by the rules and make sure that the game runs smoothly for all involved.

Referee Calls:These are calls made by Referees, and are instructions that you will hear the Referee and authorised monsters

or players calling.

Time Out This means you must cease play immediately. You may relax, and talk Out of Character

(though not about In Characterstuff). Try to mark or remember your position so that you

know where to return to for Time In.

Time Freeze This means exactly that. You freeze on the spot and close your eyes tight and hum. This call is

used to allow Referees or monsters to alter the state of the encounter. You may be given

special instructions by the Referee, but otherwise just keep your eyes closed. When Time In is

called, carry on exactly as you were before, even if the Ogre you were about to hit has been

replaced magically by your healer. Carry on with that sword swing!! No time has elapsed for

your character, even though you may have been waiting for a minute or so. If you react in a

manner not conducive to good roleplay: opening your eyes to watch what is happening, talking

to other players or magically realising that a monster has just appeared behind you, you will be

penalised.

Time In This is used to denote when we go back into character, and game time continues where it left

off.

Time Faff Time Faff is to remain in exactly the same state as Time In but remain in the current vicinity

and not move onto the next encounter. This is usually a good time for players to discuss In

Charactertactics and theories or settle internal party disputes.

The referees decision is final and you are expected to adhere to any decision made by any Shadow

Realms Referee. Do NOT openly argue with any call, simply accept it and ask to speak to the referee in

private afterwards if you need an explanation or to share your point of view. If you still feel aggrieved,plesae speak to the Branch or System Manager.

Safety Call

Man DownThis is only ever called when someone is actually hurt and could need medical attention. If you hear thisstay

exactly where you are and go to Time Out status (see Referee Calls). Only Referees and authorised

Monsters should be moving. If you see someone who is incapable of calling Man Down then do it for them!

If you dont, maybe no one will. However, please be sensible with this, we dont want a Man Down call

every time someone falls over in the gorse! A nasty blow to the face can put somebody out of the actionthrough shock and if time to recover is all they need then let the encounter continue and call over a Referee to

deal with the situation.

If you are a qualified First Aider, please inform the Referee at the beginning of the adventure.


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Creating CharactersBelow is a blank character sheet and it is this that the Referee will fill out at the beginning of each adventure

based on your choices and using information from previous adventures if applicable. Although the design of

this character sheet may vary, the different sections remain the same.

The Referee will carry these around on the adventure and will use them to mark-up the progress of your

character as you go along. This will include how injured you are, what state your armour is in and how much

magical power, life points and potions you have left (if any). The Referee will also use this as an indication of

your involvement in the adventure and your role-playing when it comes to awarding skill points at the end of

the adventure. After the adventure this information is stored on a character card for the next time you play that

character to save you having to remember the skills, spells and items that you may have.

There is also a section entitled

Notes. This is where the

Referee can record any useful

information about your

character and any special items

you might be carrying or might

find on the adventure. Because

the information on the sheet and

your character card are for thereferee, you will not necessarily

be able to look at them, but you

can ask the referee to advise you

of your current skills / spells /

hits etc.

Character BackgroundAlthough all that is entered on

the character sheet is the

relevant information for playing

the game, every player is also

expected to submit a written

background to a Shadow Realms

Referee for each character they

play. This background, which

can be as long you like (but we

would appreciate a written

summary for any background

longer than a side of A4), will

be kept by Shadow Realms and

can be added to at any time. Not

only will this background enable

you to develop your characterlogically (especially useful for

complicated characters), but will

also allow the Referee to see

how well you are role-playing

your character, and therefore

award appropriate skill points

more easily.


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Skill Points

The last section of this rulebook contains a list of all skills and a brief description of what each does. It also

contains tables for all the major races and classes showing how many Skill Points a certain skill costs: for

example Toughness is likely to be cheaper for a warrior than it is for a mage.

Every character of every race starts with the same 4 skills: One Hand Short, Pole Weapon, Treat Wounds and

Speak Common (see skill list). To make your character an individual we give you 6 skill points to spend in

the character class of your choice.

At the end of each adventure you play you will be awarded between 1 and 4 skill points according to your

overall performance on the adventure (2 skill or 3 skill are the usual awards with 1 reserved for just showing

up and 4 reserved for exceptional achievement). You can then use these skill points to further build your

character (or save them for a later date).

When you reach 60 skill we ask you to retire your character for special occasions (events and special high-

level adventures) as at this point we feel the gap between high level and starting characters gets unmanageable

for basic adventures.


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Race

In this rulebook we have included information about the most commonly played races: humans, dwarves,

elves and halflings. However we have rules for playing many other races including goblins, orcs, hobgoblins,

ogres, trolls, drow and many more. If you wish to play one of these races on a standard adventure, please

speak to a Referee. We are always willing to look at exotic ideas for characters, so if you wish to play a race

not mentioned, please do not hesitate to speak to a Referee. Usually there will not be a problem but we do

reserve the right to modify or even decline ideas that we feel may be unbalancing or detrimental.

Humans of the RealmsHumans are the newest race to appear in the Western Realms, with only 600 years or so of history. Even so,

generations have passed since the first clans settled here. Though the land is perfect for farming, it is

necessary for some men and women to turn to the sword to defend themselves against the marauding

monsters of the woods and mountains.

At this time the Humans are ruled by King Thorak (the Paladin King) who inherited the title from his Father,

Malak (the Warrior King) in the year 495 (human calendar). He rules with his wife Queen Elena from the

Castle of the High Crag, in the capital city of the Western Realms, Vacarin. Most humans have a delicate

alliance with the Elder races who tend to treat them as ignorant children and though tempers occasionally

fray, and sometimes blows are exchanged, these minor fracas have not been enough to alter the balance of

power so far. Whilst the King appears to be in a position of ultimate power, many anonymous whispers saythat the true power rests with the Conclave of Wizards, a mysterious organisation made up of the twelve most

powerful human wizards in the Realms.

Much of the human population of the Realms worships the twin patron gods of the Shadow Realms: Serin the

Bringer of Justice (Lawful Good) and Sheetra the Goddess of Mysteries (Chaotic Good). Both govern orders

of Knights or Paladins fighting for good throughout the land.

Outside the cities, where justice and mysteries are less important than the weather and the seasons, most

humans follow Gaia, the Earth Mother (though she is known by many names throughout the Realms). She and

her daughters Siran (Spring), Shanna (Summer), SSoola (Autumn) and Sif (Winter). Though Gaia does not

tend to have Clerics and Knights, she does have a devoted following of Druids and Rangers.

Then there are the darker Gods whose worshippers crave blood and souls for their Dark Lords. These evil

Gods now lurk in deep and hidden locations as they (and any other new cults) are soon wiped out by the

Knights of Serin and the Paladins of Sheetra. Hopefully.

Worship of deities found in popular fantasy campaign settings (Forgotten Realms particularly) is common and

there are many source books which provide information about these deities. This is the choice of our players

and as much of this material is covered by copyright we will not reproduce it here but rather direct people to

the publications which cover these deities. Please speak to a referee about common deities in the system.


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The Elves

Deep in the Forest of Light, in a hauntingly beautiful city called Silver Spires, the High Elves are ruled by

King Lytherial. Lytherial succeeded his father Ilthanus and his queen Atheria after the formers tragic death in

Elven Year 1104. Although Lytherial is believed half wood-elven and half high-elven, all honourable Elves of

the Realm follow his rule. Many believe that this is because most of the sub-races of Elves do not have a royal

family, choosing to look to their head lore-wardens for guidance.

Elves tend to live with their own kind (except within the great Elven cities such as Silver Spires where many

different sub-races mix) and over the untold centuries of their existence they have diversified to suit theirenvironment becoming experts in certain paths of magic until the powers became innate within the different

peoples. For example, the Wood Elves are masters of nature and their woodland environment, whilst the rare

and chaotic Fire Elves are Lords of destructive fire magic. Seduced by chaotic and evil powers, the Drow are

holders of the terrible Dark Magics that they use with glee upon their cousin elves whenever they have the

opportunity.

Elves may seem haughty and arrogant to Humans, who they see as short-lived barbarians, on the whole,

though undeniably useful in the fight against evil. Despite encroachments by woodcutters into their forests,

they have learned to tolerate and work with Humans to defeat the constant threats to peace from the evil

forces, though some Elves resent the fact that humans are expanding into formally Elven territories.

Due to the importance of the Elven deities (and religion as a whole) in Elven society, Elven clerics (and most

Elves) are aware of each of the main Elven deities. Elves should be fairly rare on adventuring parties and any

group that finds itself with an Elven archer, for example, should count itself very lucky.

Wood ElvesWood Elves are the elves of the forests, the sylvan folk of ancient legend, and possibly the original elves.

They are totally at home in woodland and at ease with the natural creatures within. All Wood Elves abhor

destruction of nature, in particular ancient woodlands, and will become quite irrational if confronted by such

wanton destruction. When compared to most of the other Elven sub-races, the Wood Elves are intensely loyal

to the Elven monarchy, and indeed provide the majority of Elven rangers to protect the ancient Elven forests.

Wood Elves are generally chaotic good in alignment, and dress in natural colours of leather, suede and

fabrics. Any class can be played as a Wood Elf, but paladins and thieves are extremely rare.

Wood Elven Life AbilitiesOne Life Point Entangle Obscure Warp Wood

Two Life Points Barkskin Speak with Plant Spider Climb

Elven Life Abilities

To learn these spell-like abilities, the elf must spend 1 skill point per level of the ability. After this the elf

needs just to concentrate and say the name of the ability (no vocals required), however this costs Life

Points instead of power (see Life Points). Although a character can learn level 1 and level 2 abilities in any

order, you must learn all level 1 and 2 abilities before learning higher abilities. Unless otherwise noted, therules for these abilities can be found in the Magic section of the rulebook.


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Wild Elves

Wild Elves are the barbarians of the Elven race: fierce fighters who are as fearless as they are superstitious.

Tribal loyalty is everything and the quest to gain honour and prestige within and on behalf of the tribal group

is a lifelong task. Whilst the Wild Elves are in many ways primitive, they are not stupid and have evolved to

their lifestyle over many centuries. As a result an adventuring party might curse having a Wild Elven warrior

with them in a delicate negotiation but in a fight they know he will prove invaluable.

Most Wild Elves are scouts or warriors although a few become shamans (i.e. magic users of one kind or

another). They wear fur, suede and leather and almost invariably avoid using metal weapons and armour.

There are many reasons for this: firstly they have no mining abilities of their own so the only metals they use

would be what they capture from, or trade with, others. Secondly, when it rusts it symbolises decay (so feared

by this superstitious people): this is why bronze is so prized by this race as it is one of the few metals of pure

properties.

Wild Elven Life AbilitiesOne Life Point Entangle Obscure Warp Wood

Two Life Points Courage Pass Without Trace

Three Life Points Enchant Weapon Minor *

*The Wild Elf summons the spirit of an ancestor to aid them against a foe that cannot be harmed by mundane

weapons. The Elf must have Commune with Spirit before he can buy this ability and will rarely allow anyone

else to wield this weapon. If the weapon is destroyed while enchanted then the spirit within is destroyed and

both the ability and the skill spent are lost.

Water Elves - The Guardians of the Sea (Rare)

Water (or Aquatic) Elves are possibly the most noble of all the elves. Very few ever adventure at all and those

that do are almost always warriors. Deep below the sea lies a beautiful aquatic city called the Nrym Coral

Towers. It is here that the Water Elves are ruled by King Dremnayliea and Queen Shellinvtas and although all

aquatic elves pay homage and respect to the Elven High King, their loyalties truly lie here. Sea elves are a

marbled green or turquoise in colour whilst freshwater elves are more marbled blue and far rarer. They all

have pointed ears and GILLS. Players are advised that all aquatic elves are Lawful (unless there is a very

good reason why not). Most will wear green or blue and scale armour (if they wear any armour at all) at least

to the body. Spears and nets are favoured weapons as are large swords. Players must make a particular effort

to convey thefeel of a water elf in their costume.

Water Elven Life AbilitiesOne Life Point Identify Liquid Walk on Water

Two Life Points Commune With Water Neutralise Poison

Four Life Points Touch Dehydrate

RANGE: Touch DURATION: 2 minutes

The object or person touched is drained of water and knocked unconscious for a count of 120. When

the victim recovers they will go mad with thirst and will go for the nearest liquid, killing to get it if

necessary.


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Winter Elves (Winter Only)

Winter elves are almost as noble as water elves but with a harsher outlook on life. The frozen wastes of the

Northlands are an unforgiving area and Winter Elves match their environment. Most are hunters, living in a

clan-based society led by elders but some become adventurers and travel south in winter, returning north as

the weather becomes too warm for them. Winter Elves are very pale with black, white or occasionally even

blue hair. They tend to dress in white and are skilled tactical fighters. Winter Elves take double damage from

fire based spells and attacks but only the damage that affects THEM not their armour or defences (i.e. damage

absorbed by their armour is not doubled). Winter Elves take HALF damage from cold-based attacks (or none

at the Referees discretion). Winter Elves have an incredible hatred for the evil Ice Elves who are exactly likeWinter Elves in all but their actions.

Winter Elven Life AbilitiesOne Life Point Cure Touch Freeze Touch Shatter

Two Life Points Commune with Ice Ice Shield (asBarkskin)

Three Life Points Ice Bolt

High Elves

High Elves are perhaps the most human of the elves, living in family groups within great cities. High Elven

society revolves around these noble families and the serene exterior of High Elven life hides political intrigue

that sees plots run over many centuries. High Elves can be of any alignment but overtly evil or uncontrollable

High Elves are extremely rare and are often cast out of society. A typical High Elven trait is a perfectionist

attitude to whatever they do, tending to make them seem particularly aloof to all other races. There are two

different types of High Elf: Gold (or Sun) Elves and Moon (or Silver) Elves. Gold Elves are tanned of skin,

often with a golden sheen and tend towards blond, light brown or red hair. Moon Elves have skin that is

slightly more pale than that of even the palest of humans and their hair tends towards dark brown or black.

Gold Elven Life Abilities

One Life Point Illuminate Immobilise PVM1

Two Life Points Magic Shield Strike Down

Three Life Points Magic Bolt

Moon Elven Life AbilitiesMoon Elves have forsaken their innate abilities for the study of magic. However these elves may

choose up to three one point spells to be powered by their life in the same way as the abilities of other

Elves.

Half Elves

Elves occasionally breed with races outside their own (although this is almost exclusively limited to humans)

and this sometimes leads to the birth of a child: a half elf. Half Elves usually have human features, with more

angular faces and slightly more pointed eyes and ears. Half Elves run off the skill table of whichever society

they were brought up in and they can learn any level 1 or 2 point abilities of the parent race of Elf (at twice

the cost).


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The Dwarves

Of all the races of the Realms, surely the Dwarves have been the most reclusive since they mined their way

into the Shadow Realms through the Great Mountains, many centuries ago. King Farthaine Greatbeard,

wielder of the Dragon Slayer Axe and his queen Gravanna rule from the mountain stronghold of Grey Towers

which is said to hold as many floors under the ground as above it. Of course no one has ever really bothered

to count them for once they reach the great beer cellars they tend to go no further. Along with beer the

Dwarves (one of the three Elder races) love precious treasure - both making and hoarding it and they are

incredibly skilled at doing both, hence the phrase: as tight as a Dwarfs purse string!

Because of their love for beer, over the years the Dwarven system has adapted to the extent that they can

actually gain strength and healing from their brews but this is a skill which must be practised before it can be

taken advantage of. Their drinking habits tend to make them short tempered, a fact which leads them into

many fights. Fortunately for this stocky, bearded and extremely talented race, fighting is another occupation

for which they have a great passion (especially against the other Elder race, the Goblinoids), and anyone who

says that a Dwarfs fighting prowess is diminished by his or her size normally does so very quietly in case

they are overheard. If they are, they are always persuaded otherwise, often by a large axe travelling towards

their head at great speed. Dwarves dont take too kindly to insults!

Dwarves as a race are hardy (8 life to start) and extremely stubborn, characteristics which give them an

advantage over most other races in the form of a resistance to certain types of spells. Over the centuries they

have developed immunity to Immobilise and Slow spells and take only half damage from spiritual and neuralattacks, mind based spells, poisons, and diseases. They are also the only race that as a whole can manufacture

weapons as this skill is taught to them as soon as they are able to walk and talk. Once in their lifetime a Dwarf

will be able to make their own magical weapon. However after this peak in their creative powers they will

never be able to duplicate the perfection they have achieved in making their masterpiece and due to their

intense pride will never make anything again as they are unwilling to make what they consider to be an

inferior item.

All Dwarves are less than 5 tall, they ALL have beards and ALL wear at least twelve layers of clothing.

Dwarves are not overly common, mostly because of the lengthy courting process before marriage, which

tends to consist of very subtle and delicate enquiries into the actual sex of the other Dwarf concerned!

Halflings

These are small plump borrowers of other peoples things, a skill which they are normally very good at.

Smaller than Dwarves, they usually come in two different types: Hobbits and Kender, the latter being the

more annoying. Used to being overlooked, they have developed the ability Blend which enables them to

merge with their surroundings in a similar way to the Elven ability Pass Without Trace. This costs them 2 life

points to cast but has the advantage that it may be cast in ANY reasonable cover, woodland or urban. Due to

their hardiness and peculiar outlook on the world they also have the ability to overcome fear and are immune

to Fear spells while they have something edible on them as their only real fear is that they might run out of

food.


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Character ClassOne of the most important things you will need to consider when you create a character is what role they

perform. You will find that the class you choose will determine how much certain skills cost. For example

Strength is cheaper for a warrior than it is for a mage, on the other hand a mage can create magic items and

scrolls whereas a warrior cannot.

You may wish to change career at a later stage. To do this, you MUST speak to a Referee to have your

character card changed. The cost for changing career is 3 skill points and any career change should be

discussed with the referee well in advance so they can explain the potential benefits and consequences for

your character.

Please keep in mind that due to printing costs we cannot include EVERY possible character class, so the ones

we have included are simply the most common ones. If you wish to play something that is not in the rulebook,

just speak to a Shadow Realms Referee and they will try to find a way of fitting your idea into the system.

WarriorsYour basic sword-swinger is the backbone of every adventuring group. Theyre the ones who really get down

to business chopping all the monsters into little bits whilst the wizards are still fumbling over their spell book.

These guys and gals are fairly common as a lot of people in these dark days have realised that there is a living

to be made swinging a sword, and it makes you rich a lot quicker than ploughing a field.

ScoutsThese woodland types have made a living by being good at acting more quietly than your average warrior.

Scouts are the people that the adventuring party relies upon to tell them whats coming. You generally get two

types of scout: Good scouts move in the vegetation to the side of any path the rest of the group is on, about

twenty or thirty metres ahead of them. This allows them to avoid being spotted themselves whilst they return

to tell the party what it is they are about to encounter. Then you get the dead scouts

BarbariansThese are large humanoids originally from the Northern Wastes, though some tribes now live within the

boundaries of the Western Realms. These hardy (begin with 8 life points instead of 6) but primitive people are

very superstitious and any acts of magic or trickery are frowned upon. Although they shy away from magic,clerical (shamanic) power does not concern them as much. Barbarians usually have a pathological hatred of

undead. For this reason, any Barbarian confronted with undead will either charge it, or run from it.

RoguesDark and shady with dubious interests in helping the party, these characters are usually trusted by none but

grudgingly respected by all. Normally highly skilled with weapons but even more skilled at finding treasure

and knowing how much its worth.

Knight ErrantsThese people are usually heavily armoured fighters with a single-minded attitude to any evil creature

CHARGE! These highly trained individuals, who are usually Lawful Good (depending on their deity), are

dedicated followers of their religion, donating all money gained to their Church after each adventure. In return

their church will supply them with equipment, though this depends greatly on their level of devotion.

Berserk RageBarbarians can go into a berserk rage once per day. This rage lasts up to five minutes and in this time they

are immune to all mind-affecting spells and can continue to fight until any location reaches 4 (broken) at

which time the pain will be severe enough to make them recover their senses (or drop unconscious). While

in this state the character has difficulty determining friend from foe and will fight anyone they feel is a

threat (both standing and armed). This ability costs 4 life points to use as it is so draining.


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Spellcasters

There are four major types of magic user: Mages, Clerics, Druids and Bards.

Each of the classes has benefits and disadvantages as well as spells unique to their class.

Learning Spells

All spellcasters start off with a certain amount of Spell Points (see individual classes for details). These

should be spent on acquiring spells (4 spell points could be spent on 4 level 1 spells or a level 2 spell and two

level 1 spells). To learn further spells will either cost money (in the case of Mages and Bards) or more spell

points (for Clerics and Druids). Where a cleric who follows his gods tenets will steadily increase in

knowledge every adventure a Mage may find a lot of money and gain spells quickly or very little and take

time to increase.

Casting Spells

Spellcasters store raw energy inside themselves in the form ofpower points and they learn to release this

power through the use ofSpell Vocals. The higher the level of the spell, the longer the vocals. For example:

Level 1: By the arcane powers of magic, Magic Dart.

Level 2: I call forth the powers of magic to send forth a Magic Missile.

Level 3: I summon the arcane powers of magic, give them shape and release them to smite you with a

Magic Bolt.Level 5: I draw upon the essence of the weave to fill me with its power so that I might summon the

elements of magic and bind Earth, Air, Fire and Water to unleash upon you a Magic Strike.

Vocals for each spell may vary as long as some vocal is used. The length of the vocals should be

proportionate to the level of the spell.

Any spell cast without spell vocals (and for mages, any third level or above spell cast without vocalsand

spell components) will either NOT WORK or go CATASTROPHICALLY wrong. You will lose the

power points that you were trying to expend and face the possible consequences.

Power Points are used to keep track of the amount of raw energy the spellcaster has at his or her disposal. As

the caster grows in experience, so they learn to hold more and more energy.

MagesThese are the guys in robes who stand behind the main line of warriors hurling spells at the enemy whilst

avoiding any close combat. Well, this is the idea behind them but it never really turns out that way though as

the enemy tends to get past the warriors or the wizards run out of power.

In the Realms magic is an acquired and ever evolving skill with research wizards forever coming up with new

and more potent spells to add to the Realms spell-book. Spells take time and money to learn and the more

powerful the spell the more difficult it is to acquire.

When casting spells of third level and above mages must use physical spell components (see a Referee for

guidance on this). By buying the skill Focus a mage can use a high quality item (for example a staff or

wand which they must obtain IC) instead of using spell components. If you try to cast spells of level 3 or

above without spell components then congratulations, you just blew your own hand off (or worse).

All mages have the ability to buy Accuracy at the cost of 3 skill points. This skill ensures that spells hit

their targets, rather than backfire with possibly horrible effects! A mage without Accuracy cannot cast

ranged offensive. A mage may also buy the skill Improved Accuracy which allows them to choose a

location with their spell (for example, Magic Strike HEAD!), a potentially devastating ability!


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Spells are bought and taught in towns and cities, usually sold by those who have survived long enough to

write a few books of their own (represented by buying the ability Teach Magic for 15 skill points). The

greater the mage, the higher their knowledge and the more spells you may be able to learn from them. Costs

may fluctuate due to civil unrest, times of war and who or where the mage is, but a benchmark price for them

is as follows:

1 point spells = 1 Mark

2 point spells = 2 Marks



5 point spells = 16 MarksBeyond the point of a level 5 spell, the price becomes negotiable with the Archmages.

6 point spells = 50 MarksApproximate prices: 7 point spells = 100 Marks


However, remember that Archmages are more likely to teach non-offensive spells. The reason for this is that

they dont want to teach Death Bolt to those who might oppose them for a seat on the Conclave!

Of course if one is fortunate enough to be taken on as an apprentice or become a member of the Mages

Guild, it may be possible to learn spells at a reduced cost (see Referee).

It is also possible for magic users to spend time and money researching new spells (See Spell Creation

section after the main Spell Book) but success is never assured.

Wizards start their adventuring career with 4 points worth of spells and 6 power points (so the mage could,

for example, cast their level 2 spell twice and 2 level 1 spells). We expect mages to develop in their careers:

learning the lower magics before taking the challenge of the higher levels (for example learning Magic Dart

before Magic Missile). If all available power points are used up SENSIBLY during the course of an

adventure then up to three extra power points may be awarded at the Referees discretion.

A wizard cannot wear armour and still cast spells: the most they can wear is one layer of fur or leather.

MagesMages begin with 4 spell points and 6 power points. They gain between 1 and 3 power points each

adventure (depending on how effectively a mage uses up his power on the adventure). They cannot castthrough armour and can wear just one layer of fur or leather to grant some protection. They can cast

spells up to 5th level though Arch Mages may cast spells up to 8th

level.


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ClericsClerics are Priests and Priestesses who adventure in the name of their Deity to educate the ignorant in the

ways of their God or Goddess, or to cleanse the world of Evil (or good, if they are thatkind of Cleric!). Often

they are the healing experts on the party, although this often depends on their religion. Because of this they

have certain advantages when it comes to healing, in particular they are the only class who can mend broken

or shattered bones (see Combat).

Clerics, like Wizards, store raw power in the form ofPower Points (6 to start with) and release them to cast

spells, invoking the name of their God as they do so. For example: By the will of Serin I draw upon his

might to smite you with a Spirit Bolt. However, unlike mages, they do not buy their spells but instead theyare granted spell points (4 to start with) by their deity and may spend them on appropriate spells (see

Appendix for Cleric Spells). During the course of the adventure the Cleric should spend time praying,

spreading the teachings of their God and generally being faithful to their chosen power. In this way the

faithful Cleric is granted spell points to spend or save for spells, the number awarded depending on the

devotion shown on the adventure. To show their faith, ALL clerics are expected to wear and use a holy

symbol, though this may be hidden from view whilst not casting spells. It is also usual for a Cleric to donate

all their earnings to their Church, which will in return supply the Cleric with potions and equipment to

adventure with. Remember: the more devotion, the more support.

Clerics tend to be the same alignment as their deity, and although this is not always the case it is almost

unheard of for a Cleric to be of an alignment very different from that of their God and still be able to gain

power from them. For example: a Lawful Good deitys clerics will be almost exclusively Lawful Good,

though there may be a small number who are Lawful Neutral or Neutral Good.

Clerics and Undead

Clerics have the ability to Turn Undead. To do this, they must hold up their holy symbol, advance on the

creature and constantly chant something similar to: by the power of..I turn undead. Depending on the

power and standing of the Cleric and indeed the power of the creature, it may back away from the ever-

advancing cleric. If the Cleric stops or retreats then the creature is able to attack again.

DruidsDruids are a character class closely linked to Clerics but who dedicate themselves wholly to nature. Their

spells are also governed by Power Points (6 to start with) but they are so biased towards Elemental Magic

that they should be treated completely separately from other magic users (see Appendix for Druid spells).

Most Druids worship the Goddess Gaia (the Earth Mother), one of the oldest deities in the realms, and her

daughters and they receive spell points from her in the same way that Clerics do from their various Gods (4 to

start with). Druids believe in, though not necessarily worship the Elven Gods. The Elven Druids tend to sway

towards their own Gods more than Human Druids but there are rarely any arguments between these differentsects of the Earth Mother. Druids are usually neutral in alignment and rarely harm any living thing unless

battling against evil. Druids prefer to use a mace or staff and rarely use a great amount of metal unless of pure

properties (for example bronze). The Druids are guided and watched over by a conclave of 3 High Druids.

ClericsClerics begin with 4 spell points and 6 power points. They gain between 0 and 3 power and between 0 and 3

spell points each adventure (depending on their level of devotion to the tenets of their faith). They can castthrough any amount of armour (assuming it is appropriate to their deity) and can cast spells up to 5th level.

High Priests may cast spells up to 8th

level.

DruidsDruids begin with 4 spell points and 6 power points. They gain between 0 and 3 power and between 0 and 3

spell points each adventure (depending on their level of devotion to the tenets of their faith). They can cast

through any amount of non-metal armour and can cast spells up to 5th level. Arch Druids may cast spells up

to 8th

level.


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BardsBards are travelling entertainers, often seen as the most noble of Rogues. They come in many different forms

and there are as many words to describe them: troubadours, entertainers, historians, scholars, reporters,

teachers and scribes. Most Bards, no matter how untalented, have a restless urge to discover legend-lore and

stories, which often makes them a store of surprising information. Bards are jacks-of-all-trades and masters of

none, save in the area of words and song, which is reflected by the various skill costs. As a bard you can

choose whether you are a storyteller, a musician or a mixture of both. If you choose musician then please

bring your instrument with you as you may be called on for a performance! It is not wise to anger a Bard,

especially a powerful one, for through story and song they have the power to control peoples memories and

emotions and sarcasm and satire destroying your character can prove an enemy too great for the most skilledof sword swingers. Due to their mastery of words and knowledge they have the opportunity to develop skills

peculiar to this class. With sufficient roleplay on the part of the bard, it is IMPOSSIBLE to tell if they are

lying by any means, magical or not. At the cost of 6 skill points they can buy the skill Recognise Lie, which

enables them to study a person for a short while and then tell whenever they are lying. For 15 skill points they

can develop the ability of True Sight which will enable them to see through deceptions that would fool the

eyes of most people.

In addition, Bards also wield a small amount of magic, usually seen as being derived from their deep

understanding of words, stories and song and the power locked within them. The Bard starts off with 3 level 1

spells and receive 3 power points. Power is gained at a cost of 2 skill for 3 points of power. Spells are paid

for at the same price as mages but the spells they can gain are restricted by the nature of their art (see

Appendix for Bard Spells).

BardsBards begin with 3 spell points and 3 power points. Unlike other power users they do not automatically

earn power points but instead buy them at a rate of 2 skill points for 3 power. They buy their spells in the

same way as mages. They can cast through armour up to studded leather and can cast spells up to 3rd

level.

Chief Bards may cast spells up to 6th

level.


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Prestige Classes

The following classes cannot simply be chosen when you start a character and are usually granted when

joining a particular group. If you are interested in any of these classes, please speak to a referee for details.

AssassinsAssassins tend to get their money in an entirely different way, but sometimes they come out to adventure just

to hone their skills or are they really after another member of the party? You can never be totally sure until

its too late.

RangersOnly those people warranted by the Elven or Human kings are authorised to call themselves Rangers as it is

an official title with strong penalties for its misuse. They are almost always relatively skilled fighters,

proficient with most weapons and adept at survival techniques. Rangers are always good or neutral in

alignment (tending to be either Neutral Good, Chaotic Good or Lawful Neutral:see Alignment). Because of

their affinity with nature they are granted spells from the Druid spell list but they are more limited and

specialised. The spells available to Rangers are listed below (an explanation for what each of these spells do

can be found in the magic section).

One point to remember while playing this class is that any Ranger who commits an EVIL act will either losepermanent Life points as one of the woodland deities exacts revenge or will be hunted down and killed by

other Rangers.

One Point Spells:

Cure Detect Lie Entangle Immobilise Illuminate

Know Alignment Obscure PVM1 Repair Warp Wood

Two Point Spells:

Barkskin Cure Disease Delay Death Detect Invisibility Farseeing

Neutralise Poison Pass without Trace PVM2 Speak with Plant Spider Climb

RangersWhen Rangers are appointed they are granted 1 spell point and 1 power point. They gain 1 spell point and

1 power each adventure. They can cast through armour up to ringmail and can cast spells up to 3rd level

(though they must have all available level 1 and 2 spells first).


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Paladins and KnightsTo achieve Paladin or Knight status, a character must first adventure as a Knight Errant until he is appointed

by his Deity, usually through a ceremony performed by another Paladin or Knight although sometimes by a

High Priest (appointments are at the Referees Discretion).

Once they have achieved Paladin or Knight status characters may gain spells throughout their careers. These

are granted in a similar way to Clerics by the accumulation of spell points which they may then spend

acquiring spells. Discuss with a Referee which spells would suit your character / religion best. See the

examples below:

Example Paladin of Sheetra Spells Example Knight of Serin Spells

One Point Spells

Detect Magic Cure

Dispel Zombie Detect Influence

Illuminate Detect Lie

Protection versus Magic 1 Know Alignment

Remove Fear Protection vs Zombie

Two Point spells

Farseeing Cure Disease

Mind Message Protection vs Skeleton

Knights and PaladinsOnce appointed, Knights and Paladins are granted 1 spell point and 1 power point. They gain 1 spell point and 1

power each adventure (assuming they follow the tenets of their faith). They can cast through any amount of

armour and can cast spells up to 2nd level.


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Multi-Classing

If a character changes class they can longer buy skills from their previous list and if they are a spell-caster

although they do not lose any spells or power they have already gained they cannot progress any further.

An alternative to changing class is to multi-class. This is a much more involved process than simply paying

3 skill and changing class. To multi-class you must first find another character of that class who is willing to

spend time with you in character teaching you the skills you will need in your new profession. The below list

shows approximately 6 skills per class that you must learn (and pay the skill cost from your current class)

before you can be considered for multi-classing.

Desired Class

Warrior 4 different weapon skills (One Hand Long, Two Handed, Either Handed, Use Shield, Open

Handed, Bow, Crossbow or Thrown), Weapon Mastery in 2 different weapons

Scout Bow or Thrown, Find Tracks (x2), Identify Potion, Identify Poison, Recognise Disease

Barbarian Improve Constitution (x2), 2 Handed Weapon, Toughness, Strength, Open Handed

Knight 1 Hand Long, Use Shield, Read and Write (racial language), Recognise Evil (or Religion),

Recognise Undead and Recognise Disease

Rogue Evaluate Treasure, Crossbow, Thrown, Identify Poison, Weapon Mastery (in either Knife,

Thrown

or Crossbow)

Cleric Read and Write (racial language), DNW, Recognise Undead, Recognise Disease, Identify

Potion, Make Potion (or Herbal Bandage)

Mage Read and Write Magic, Sense Magic, Recognise Magic, Create Item (see below for guidance)

Druid Identify Poison, Identify Potion, Recognise Disease, Recognise Undead, Make Herbal

Bandage, Find Tracks

Bard Read and Write: Magic and 2 other languages, Lore level 1, Evaluate Treasure, Sense Magic

After you have met the above requirements you will have to speak to a referee about what else is required to

finally be able to buy skills from either list and have all the benefits of both classes. This is on an individual

basis and will cost a minimum of 3 skill (as per changing class) and usually involve joining a guild or church

and completing a certain task or quest.

Certain points to remember when multi-classing:

A character may only multi-class once.

Not all multi-classing combinations are equal and the less you gain from the multi-class, the easier it

should be to achieve. For example, multi-classing between non-spellcaster classes (Warrior-Rogue)

should be relatively straightforward but multi-classing between spell-caster classes will be somewhere

between hard (Bard-Mage) and near-impossible (Cleric-Mage).

Druids are particularly difficult to multi-class, with scouts and rangers being the only likely multi-classingpossibilities (but even then this may not be appropriate).

When multi-classing from a non-spellcaster to a spell-caster you will have to spend an additional 3 skillpoints to buy your starting power points.

When multi-classing to Mage, the character must create a magical item of some description which will be

judged by the apprentices master. This can cost anything from 1 skill point to create, however the powerof the item may affect the characters future in the Guild and how difficult the final task is to be accepted

as a full member.


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AlignmentEach character in the Shadow Realms system has an alignment, an Out of Character description of their

outlook on life. This consists of two parts, which, when put together give the Referee a better understanding

of how your character will react to certain situations. The first part of the alignment defines how the character

lives his life in regards to society and its rules: chaotically or lawfully. The second part describes their natural

disposition: good or evil. Between each of these extremes is a neutral option which leads us to having nine

possible alignments.

Common Alignment ArchetypesLawful Good: Believe in a strong, well-ordered society but believe that it should exist to improve the quality

of life of all within it.

Neutral Good: Believe that chaos and law have no bearing on what is right, and so will help an organised

society if it is helping those within, but will try to overthrow it if it does not.

Chaotic Good: Believe in their own moral compass, that the end justifies the means and that people are

individuals who shouldnt be pushed around or told what to do. They often equate law with tyranny.

Lawful Neutral: Believe in a strong, well-ordered government, whether it is authoritarian or liberal and will

support it in all but the most extreme situations.

True Neutral: Believe in the ultimate balance of forces. Since most people in the world make judgements,

true neutral characters are extremely rare. They are even rarer on parties as they do their best not to side with

law, chaos, good or evil. They will even occasionally change sides in a battle, if the other side is losing,

seeking to maintain a balance and stop either side from becoming too powerful.Chaotic Neutral: Believe in following whatever particular whim they fancy, and if they cant decide will

either do nothing or toss a coin (though they may purposefully go against the outcome). They are almost

totally unreliable, happily gambling away everything on a single dice and not caring about the result.

Lawful Evil: Believe in using the rules of society to further their own ends, not caring if a rule that helps

them hurts or kills someone else. They only give their word when they are sure it will not adversely affect

them and will only break it if they are sure they can do so legally, within the rules of society.

Neutral Evil: Believe in getting ahead by any means possible. If there is a quick and easy way to do so, be it

legal or extremely illegal, they will take it. They base allegiances on power and money and so are often very

receptive to bribes, often betraying their companions if it will advance their cause.

Chaotic Evil: Believe in taking whatever they want by whatever means necessary. They will happily destroy

anything that gets in their way for they believe that governments are for the weak: those incapable of fending

for themselves. Because of this, they believe in raw power and strength: that they are allowed to takewhatever they want, and that the weak are there to be exploited.

Although we expect all characters to play their alignment, this is only a game mechanic and so we do realise

that sometimes characters may begin to change their attitudes due to the nature of adventuring. If you feel that

your alignment no longer matches your character, please speak to a Referee about having it changed.

PLEASE NOTE: You cannot normally play an evil character on a standard adventure.


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Money

1 Gold Mark = 10 Silver Crowns 1 Silver Crown = 10 Copper Pieces

Starting characters are deemed to have spent their money on potions, equipment or spells. During adventures

money may be gained by payments for quests or any other means you see fit but please remember that there is

a death penalty for crimes such as highway robbery and murders!

Each character starts off in the clothes and armour that they are standing in. If your character wishes to change

the weapons they use or what armour they wear then they may have to either find it on an adventure or buy it

In Characterbefore they can wear or use it. This is enforced totally at the Referees discretion and will

usually only be done if there is a good in character reasons. You will have to supply the phys reps of any

weapons and armour your character wishes to buy.

Magic ItemsAs Shadow Realms is a fantasy system you should not be surprised if magical items appear from time to time.

These range from single use scrolls and items of little power or a limited lifespan to incredibly potent and

powerful items that have a permanent effect. To find out if an item is magical you will need either one of the

skills Sense Magic or Recognise Magic or the spell Detect Magic. Once you have determined if an item is

magical, you will need to find out what it is does in order to use it properly (some items may simply affect the

bearer, so the effects will be told to you by the Referee if you risk this). The most common way to do this is to

use the spell Identify Magic, however the skill Lore may tell you some history about the item including who

made it and what it was used for.

Some creatures are only affected by Magical Damage and if you are ever fortunate to get your hands on a

magical weapon you will find it extremely useful in these situations. Magic weapons may have other effects,

but the element that most have in common is a magical damage value. For example, a basic magic sword

may do magic single and if this is the case it will add no modifier to your damage. However a sword doing

magic double will add a +1 modifier to your damage. This is likewise the case with a magic triple sword

(that will add +2 to your damage) and any more powerful weapons (though these are almost unheard of).

During the campaign you may find weapons that only add their modifier in certain circumstances (for

example only while fighting demons or undead or evil creatures). If this is the case you will be advised by the

referee.

Unless master-crafted or in some other way protected, Magic Items can be shattered, warped, burned

or otherwise destroyed using the relevant spells. A damaged item may be mended using the spell

Mend or Repair however it will lose ALL magical abilities. The only way to retain the magical

power of a damaged magical item is to use the spell Reform Object.

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