Color Monitor capable of 640x480 resolution at 256 colors
Double Speed(2x) CD-ROM drive
Keyboard & Mouse
Installation:
1. Insert the Curse of Dragor CD into your CD-ROM drive.
2. Double click on the Curse of Dragor CD icon on your desktop.
3. Double click on the Install Curse of Dragor Demo icon.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Starting the Game:
1. Once the installation is complete....
2. Double click on the Curse of Dragor folder icon on your desktop.
3. Double click on the Curse of Dragor Demo (fat) icon.
Playing The Game:
When the game begins, you are taken to the main user interface. Here you will select to "start" a new game. You will lead a party of four(4) explorers and will be asked to build your party before beginning your journey. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Movement-
To move in Curse of Dragor Demo you can either use the arrow keys on your keyboard or the arrow keys on the user interface. The directions on the arrow keys apply.
Combat-
To engage in combat within Curse of Dragor, use the space bar on your keyboard. To run from a foe (when you are getting your butt kicked), use the R key on your keyboard.
Opening Doors, Gates, etc.-
To open a door, gate or other object, simply click on that object. Most will open if unlocked. If they are locked, double click on the door and choose your method of opening.
Picking Up Objects/Inspecting Objects-
To pick up an object, simply drag and drop it to the character you want to carry that particular item. If you don't like to drag and drop, simply double click on an item and select what you want to do with it.
These are the basics to get you started with Curse of Dragor. If you have any other questions, please email : rhino@domark.com
The Story of the Curse of Dragor....
MACABE THE SEER
The twin moons of Trinasia were high in the northern sky when Macabe the Seer sat down to his meal. He was startled by the sudden clamor of a pack of horses outside of his tent. At 187, he had little strength to waste on such impetuous fools. Yet he knew why they had come. He was the only one that could help them.
Macabe was a living legend to the Trinasia populace. He was the only surviving Hexaemon Council disciple. Only he had the power to teleport people into Xorinth Castle. Yet, this sacred duty seemed more of a curse to him. For over 150 years he had been sending eager mercenaries on one way journeys into his beloved Xorinth. Now, like so many others before them, these adventurers were drawn by the lure of Dragor’s Curse. As the tent flap opened, a beautiful woman entered.
"Macabe! Please guide my worthy band of warriors." These words were uttered by a stunning creature of beauty and brawn. "My name is...." "I know your name child," said Macabe. "I know of you and of your band of motley warriors. No doubt, the rest of the village will also know of you when they see your names added to the list of the missing." He looked solemnly at her lavender eyes and beckoned her to sit by the fire. Macabe had seen too many like her: young, strong, and determined. Every so often he could hear their voices when the wind blew in from Xorinth. He was saddened that their voices no longer spoke of life.
"Will you guide us?", asked the woman. "Tell me why you seek my services child." The youth dropped to her knees and begged, "You know the story....you know the secrets of Dragor and of Xorinth Castle, please share your wisdom." Perhaps it was her eyes or even her aura that charmed his hardened heart. In a gruff tone he uttered, "Fine my lady, sit with me and be silent while I reveal the Curse of Dragor."
Macabe brought out a large, green gem and placed it in his palm. The tent grew silent, even the flames of the fire were quiet. She heard his voice change, it was distant and hushed. "I was younger then....a man respected and admired by my countrymen of Xorinth. My family was proud of my role as first seer to Rhama. I was also a disciple of the Healer - Serenity. My land was well known by the rest of Trinasia, as the place where Black and White magic were practiced in harmony. Where their immense powers were focused by the Council to the benefit of the world and its people. Life was good then! The people were prosperous and content in their ways. Laughter was common in the streets of the capital. Xorinthians would gather near the great Castle of Xorinth and celebrate with the Council members.”
“Yes, the Council was special. Often I would gaze at them and marvel at their magical presence. It was never made public of their origins, some believed they came from the heavens, while others said they were from the distant lands of Roxtra. I only cared that they were here. For my destiny was once that of a petty thief who squandered his gift of second sight. One day, I was running from the local guardians when I was suddenly stopped and levitated high off the ground. Tristan the great warrior stood before me with a mighty flame sword pointed at my skull. Instead of death, Tristan teleported me into the interior of Xorinth Castle. There, I was placed in front of the Hexaemeron Council. The Hexaemeron Council was a union of sorcerers united for the common good and the pursuit of knowledge. Under the leadership of King Meridian, they transformed Xorinth into the most prosperous kingdom on Trinasia.”
THE HEXAEMERON COUNCIL
“The Council was gathered around the meeting table in their lavish chamber.”
“Aquia the people's speaker, was the first to notice me. A beautiful women in her middle years, with a tall, lean body, she presented a elegant image. Aquia was famous for her impressive telepathic abilities and for her highly effective skills of problem solving and diplomacy. Aquia was always calm under pressure. She wasn't powerful in magic, but her mental prowess was unparalleled.”
Next to her was Arath the teacher. Arath was the oldest member of the Council, but was also its wisest. He was a devoted scholar who tirelessly strove to increase his knowledge. Meridian had saved him from execution by a jealous King in a nearby kingdom. Since then, he has guided both Meridian and the Council in all areas of study.
Believed to be the smartest man on Trinasia, Arath still made time to teach the youth of Xorinth the virtues of education and of magic.”
“In the shadows, laughing with Tristan, sat Shaun the apprentice. Shaun’s appearance of a wiry and untidy youth, hid the power of a mighty sorcerer. As an orphaned child he was snatched from the streets by Meridian. Meridian had quickly sensed his leadership potential. To most people, Shaun was a freak, but he never let their thoughts disturb his quiet temperament. He would often read quietly after his magic lessons or tag along with his hero Tristan. The Council knew that in time, Shaun would become their leader.”
“Tristan the Warrior, was the most flamboyant member of the Council. A ladies man with a quick temper, Tristan was often the center of controversy. In the early days of the Council, Meridian and Tristan fought often, but Meridian (with the help of Rhama and Arath) had tamed his wild ways. His mighty sword was now used for good. Tristan has slowly gained the respect and loyalty of the Council. Every day he diligently trains both his magic and fighting skills. Tristan has adopted young Shaun as a brother. Together their talents are nearly unbeatable.”
“The closest to Meridian is Rhama the Advisor. Rhama is his childhood friend. Together they have faced many trials. Rhama's gifts in magic and weapons has saved them on countless occasions. Now in old age, he is a dedicated scientist. His practical, analytical mind has developed many new spells and weapons. Rhama's skills in Alchemy have produced many inventions for the Xorinth community. Even with his many duties, Rhama still finds time for frolicking. He is a renowned drinker who has leveled many a pub after a wild drinking bout. Rhama is not a man to underestimate.”
“Perhaps the most enigmatic member of the Council is Serenity the Healer. Her origins are unknown, but it is believed Meridian was saved by her healing skills after his defeat at the Battle of Vorcantic. He has kept her near ever since. Serenity's healing touch has aided every member of the Council. She is a mute, but communicates with telepathy. Her free time is spent healing the sick of Xorinth. However, a mysterious sickness unaffected by her magic, has taken many Xorinthian youth, and has put her in depressed spirits.”
“Faced with these legendary beings, I was terrified. Rhama spoke first and asked me what ale I liked. Before I could answer, Aquia interrupted. ‘We have been watching you Macabe. You have talents that you do not realize because your spirit is dominated by malevolence. You have a choice, become an apprentice to the Council and use your talents for good or feel Tristan's blade on your neck.’ The Council became silent and focused their gaze on me.”
"If it pleases, I ask to serve the Council,’ I said. Tristan laughed and bellowed, "Serve you will boy, the latrines need a good scrubbing."
“The next six years went quickly. I spent most of my days serving the needs of the Council. At night I learned the ways of magic. Rhama and Arath were tough teachers, but they were patient and kind. Tristan and Shaun showed me the way of steel and trained my body. One day I looked in a mirror and I no longer saw that little vagabond.”
“Unfortunately, my magic skill was never great, but I was able to see the future. My premonitions saved the kingdom from several disasters both natural and manmade. Yet, many nights I would have this troubling dream. I dreamt of a white hawk that would always follow me on my trips in the countryside. The hawk would watch my moves and loudly squawk. Even Serenity did not know what this dream meant. She told me telepathically that Meridian was returning from his crusade in the Southern Provinces and that he would know.”
“King Meridian had been away for nearly seven years fighting the enemies of Xorinth. I had never seen the King. The Council spoke of him as if he were a god, but the people spoke of him as if he were a father. With his wisdom, I could truly find my purpose in the world. I longed to meet this great leader and serve his cause.“
THE APPEARANCE OF MERIDIAN
I was returning from an errand, and walked on a isolated road when I heard a familiar squawking. I looked to the heavens and saw the huge hawk! I ran fearing for my life, but the bird was too swift. The creature landed in front of me and before my eyes transformed into a old man with brilliant silver hair. ‘I am Meridian, and you are Macabe.’ In shock, I uttered, ‘Yes, my lord....how may I serve.’ Meridian spoke in a somber tone, ‘I need your services my lad, you have the gift of future sight and this gift can aid me in my greatest battle.’ When I looked at Meridian, I was amazed by his aura. I could feel the power that emanated from his being. His eyes of gold seemed to hypnotize my mind. I would have done anything to assist him in his coming confrontation.”
“Meridian continued, ‘The Council thinks you are ready for your first battle. I can sense your apprehension. The first battle is always the hardest. I have confidence in you Macabe, but you will need to reach into your soul to find the courage to win the coming fight. Come sit with me.’"
“As I sat next to Meridian, he told me a frightening story. He told me that in his last battle, he and the forces of Xorinth were foiled by the sudden appearance of an army led by Carantus the Warlord. This army of evil was manned by supernatural beings that overwhelmed the humans of Xorinth. Meridian had to use his magical powers to stave off the assault and allow for a retreat of his troops. During the retreat, a fierce storm ravaged the troops. Meridian quickly realized that this was not an ordinary storm, but a maelstrom of black magic. During the previous battle, he had felt a strong force of darkness on the battlefield. He was determined to find its source. As his troops fled, he turned to fight this fiend and provide cover for his men.”
“He used several spells to stop the storm and when it stopped he was alone on the road. A dense fog arose around him and then he heard a sinister voice calling his name. Though this voice was unfamiliar to him, he sensed a powerful being was behind it. As the fog thickened....a dark mass arose from the road's surface. It began to coher into shapes. For one of the few times in his life, Meridian was afraid; this was no ordinary wizard that faced him. I still remember the chilling words Meridian spoke.”
"I watched a large creature transform in front of me. At his side were two hideous gargoyles. It was the shape of a man, but it had no face. Its two yellow eyes glowed with rage."
"’Hello brother....you look aghast,’ uttered the apparition. I was indeed in shock for it was my half-brother. ‘Dragor! I cast you into the underworld - how did you escape?’"
"Shut up fool, I have come back to claim your precious land of Xorinth. I also intend to collect your head and those of your Council. It has been a long struggle out of the tortures of the Underworld, but with the assistance of my new friend Carantus - I AM BACK!"
“Meridian commanded. ‘Dragor, listen to me, we can....’, but Dragor quickly disappeared into a ball of green flame.”
“Meridian told me the story of Dragor. Dragor was his half brother, part man - part demon. Meridian's father was seduced by his mother, a Borken Witch. His father tried to kill this crazed witch and his bastard son, but sadly his magic was too weak. He ended up a blinded and crippled shell of a man. Meridian only met Dragor once before, in the mountains of Vorcantic. Dragor headed an army of skeletal warriors against the forces of Xorinth. He wanted Meridian dead, so he could rule Trinasia unchallenged. The battle was fierce and many perished in those mountains. Meridian was severely wounded by a magical thunderbolt from Dragor. He too would have joined the ranks of the dead had it not been for reinforcement from the Council. Together they captured Dragor. For the good of the people, Dragor was cast into the abyss of the Underworld. His last words to Meridian were a curse of revenge. It looks like Dragor made good on that vow. I could see the concern in Meridian's face as he finished our conversation.”
"So you see Macabe, I fear that a climactic battle is approaching. I need your skills of premonition to warn me on the approach of the Dragor and Carantus army.’ I agreed to this mission, but deep in my soul, I cringed at the thought of the titanic battle to come.”
THE BATTLE OF XORINTH
“Rumors of Dragor’s march to Xorinth Castle were filtering throughout the entire land of Xorinth. In every land he had entered he laid waste to countryside. Meridian and the Council had mobilized in defense of the kingdom. Together they conjured a shield of magic that protected the borders of Xorinth. I busied myself with magical mediation. I used every ounce of my strength to locate Dragor and his army. My efforts paid off. I was able to locate him at the Western Border. He was there with Carantus, together they had an army of sixty thousand strong at their call. Yet for all their power and determined efforts, they could not break the shield.”
“I reported my sighting to Meridian and the Council. Together we developed a plan to defeat this monster. There were high spirits all around when Tristan and Shaun came forth with an ingenious attack strategy, but.....”
The girl saw tears in Macabe's eyes, and for a moment, she thought he would break down. Quickly, the tears were gone and Macabe regained control. He spoke with a heavy heart.
“That night I was by the front gate of the Castle talking with the guards. I was surprised to see Myra, a young lass of seven, walking toward the gates. She was a favorite of the Council. An orphan, she always cheered them with her playful antics and pleasant disposition. We had feared her lost, since she was missing for several days. Most believed her to be lost in the woods. The Council would be happy to hear of her safe return. I called to her, but she ignored my greeting. Something was different about her. She began to utter a haunting giggle and then her eyes began to GLOW! I tried to stop her, but she screamed with rage and pushed me with immense power against the wall. I blacked out.”
“I awoke to screams and explosions. The castle guards were all dead - most burned to ashes. I ran to the Council chamber as the Castle shook with explosions and billowed with thick smoke.”
“I rushed into the chamber in time to see Lord Dragor and his gargoyles attacking the Council. Serenity was down and Arath nearly beaten by several gargoyles. The rest of the Council were trying to fend off the gargoyles' attack and get to Meridian. He was in dire need. Dragor had him encased in a plasma web. I tried to surprise attack Dragor, but he suddenly turned. I then saw his eyes glow brightly. Before I could react, he zapped me with an energy charge, and again the world went dark.”
“I awoke to see Serenity over me. Even though she was hurt, she had saved me with her healing touch. The rest of the Council was there, all except Meridian. He was gone, banished by Dragor. Shaun told me the tragic tale.”
“While Meridian and the Council were eating, Myra crept into the Chamber. She screamed a vile curse and then exploded into a ball of flame. Out of the flames rushed Dragor and his gargoyles. The Council fought hard, and many of Dragor's gargoyles were killed, but Dragor had gained the upper hand. He had quickly captured Meridian and then used his superior power to hold them at bay. Dragor told the Council that Meridian would soon know the tortures of the Underworld, and then vanished with him. Without Meridian, the shield of magic was gone. Dragor and Carantus were now marching on the Castle.”
THE CURSE OF DRAGOR
“The Council spent the remaining hours teleporting the Xorinth populace to nearby lands. My heart grew cold as I watched the glow of the approaching army from the tower of Xorinth Castle. Aquia joined me and said, ‘You have fought well Macabe, now it is time for you to go.’ ‘I want to join you in the final fight my lady,’ I pleaded. She resisted, ‘There will be no final fight, the Council cannot win without Meridian. We will instead transform ourselves to hide from Dragor. We will hide in stasis until Dragor leaves these lands. It is best to survive to fight another day, than to die in vain. Macabe, you will be in charge of restoring us to our rightful places. Only then can we attempt to free Meridian. Quickly - Take this jewel! We have empowered it with the sum of our magic. Use it to help free us.’ Those were the last words I ever heard from a Council member. In an instant, I was teleported to this nearby land. That was a very long time ago.... “My brave one, listen carefully to my words....rumors and speculation are all that document what happened next at the castle. From the best sources, it is said that Dragor found the Castle empty of life and treasure. When he found that his victory was a pyrrhic one, he became insanely enraged. He blighted the lands of Xorinth and put a magical curse on Xorinth Castle. Dragor then disappeared with Carantus on crusades of evil into other lands. Since his victory, Trinasia has suffered greatly under his reign of darkness. Only Meridian and the Council can topple this tyrant. Our key to salvation lies within the castle walls. You must find the secret that restores the Council. Only then can Meridian be freed.”
“Beware my lady, the Castle is now a repository of horror. Inside its walls are said to be giant ants, possessed knights of armor, zombies, and deadly plants. Devious tricks, hidden traps, and deadly puzzles await to ensnare the unwary. You will need to remain focused in your quest or your bones will surely join those of the others. While in the Castle you must act swiftly. Once Dragor senses your presence, he will undoubtedly send horrible monsters to crush your brave band. Finally, I have sensed an unholy abomination within the walls. A creature that I cannot see, but I can feel its powerful hatred for all the living. I fear that no one may able best this specter. During your quest I will do my best to support your efforts.”
ONWARD TO THE CASTLE
“Many brave warriors have tried to free the Council....none have returned from their quest into Xorinth. Macabe rose slowly and led the woman outside. Assembled around the tent were many warriors of substance. Their confidence and bravery warmed his heart. He spoke to them with conviction. "Children of Meridian, I am about to send you on your greatest challenge. I will be watching out for you during your quest. You will not be alone! If you are in peril, I shall send in my guardians with valuable potions. Look for them in the dark passages of Xorinth Castle."
The group cheered and the woman spoke, "Wise Macabe, I thank you for your words....we pledge to break this wretched curse. My team will prevail!" Macabe took out the gem and began to chant a conjure. In an instant the woman and her group were teleported into Xorinth Castle.
The next morning, Macabe stood at the tent entrance. The wind was blowing strong and cold from Xorinth. In his sleep, he had a dream of sunlight and of laughter....he was reminded of a time long ago, and maybe of a time to come. As he looked toward Xorinth, he shouted "Go with my blessings children. I call on the great Meridian to aid your quest. I pray that I do not hear your voice calling on the winds."
