Ultima IX books

The following is a complete transcript of all books and scrolls in Ultima IX: Ascension. Of note is that no new books were printed in the time between Ultima VII and Ultima IX.

History of Ultima

The First Age of Darkness

Early in the reign of Lord British there came unto the land of Britannia a powerful wizard named Mondain. He brang forth many creatures of great evil, using the power of his magic to control them. And there was great suffering throughout the land. It was in these days that the Avatar first came unto our realm, to vanquish Mondain and liberate our people.

The Second Age of Darkness

After Mondain's passing, Minax the enchantress brought forth terrors to menace the populace. She had been apprentice to Mondain. Perhaps more than that, if the moaning and wailing that echoed through the halls outside their shared bedchamber bore any meaning. She established a reign of death and destruction, her magic fueled by the strength of her passion. Again it was only the return of the Avatar that put an end to the oppression. Minax was vanquished, as Mondain before her.

The Third Age of Darkness

Once Minax was gone, peace reigned for twenty years. And then the last of Mondain's legacy became known. For he and Minax had together produced an unholy creation known only as Exodus. For many years it had stayed hidden, patiently gathering information to heighten its powers. Finally it chose to exploit the results of its diligence. Creating a mighty castle to reside in, Exodus brought forth a third plague of monsters, and nowhere in Britannia was safe from its relentless evil. This was the greatest challenge yet for our hero from another world; yet once again the Avatar proved triumphant. And with the defeat of Exodus, a new era of prosperity began.

The Quest of the Avatar

In days not long past, the Council of Wizards erected shrines to the eight virtues, that people throughout the land might meditate upon them. It was through studying the eight virtues and the three underlying principles that the great hero, who had defeated the Triad of Evil, started down the path that led to Avatarhood.
For verily it is known that the three principles are Truth, Love and Courage;
And that from Truth arises Honesty;
And from Love arises Compassion;
And from Courage arises Valour;
And that Truth comingled with Love gives rise to Justice;
And Love comingled with Courage gives rise to Sacrifice;
And Courage comingled with Truth gives rise to Honor;
And Truth, Love and Courage all united create Spirituality;
And the absence of all three principles leads to the vice of pride, which leads us to think of the virtue that is its opposite,
that of Humility.

And on the quest to become the embodiment of the eight virtues, the Avatar recovered the Codex of Ultimate Wisdom, and discovered that the one underlying concept that leads to the three principles which lead to the eight virtues is Infinity. Ponder this well, oh seeker!

Codex of Ultimate Wisdom:

Main article: Codex of Ultimate Wisdom

"How can one half of a thing be removed if it is separated from the other half that forms the whole? Good and evil can not exist without the other. If one is to be removed, it must join with the other."
"The Barrier of Life must be cast before Ascension. Place the 8 Sigils on the eight pillars in the Guardian's Chamber. Move to the circle in the center of the room, there you will be asked for the incantation. Speak the words, "Sanct Vas Grav In Mani An Corp" and the barrier will rise around the chamber. A gate shall then appear, summoning the other half that makes the whole into the room."
"The most destructive of all magic must be used to remove the whole from Britannia. Armageddon must be cast, but only after the Barrier of Life is in place, lest all the world be destroyed. To perform this ritual, you must have the eight sigils at hand. Then you must use three pieces of the dimensional portal. When you are asked for the incantation, speak the words correctly. They are "Vas Kal An Mani In Corp Hur Tym".

Blackthorn and the Shadowlords

As it seemed Britannia was entering a golden age, Lord British, the beloved ruler of Britannia, went down to explore the underworld and was lost. At this time, from the three largest shards of the broken gem of immortality came the Shadowlords, who could warp the minds of men and turn them away from the virtues. These Shadowlords influenced Lord British's trusted confidant, Lord Blackthorn, who took control and declared martial law in his ruler's absence.
The Avatar returned, and summoned eight companions to defeat the Shadowlords and rescue their king before the Underworld collapsed, while Blackthorn was thrown into the ethereal void for his betrayal.

Warriors of Destiny

After the shining example set by the Avatar, Britannia seemed all set to enter a golden age of peace and plenty. And then a great tragedy took place. Lord British, the beloved ruler who united the land of Britannia, and saw it through some of the hardest times in its history, was lost. He had gone on an expedition to explore the newly discovered underworld, and never returned. Many thought him dead. Lord Blackthorn took control in his absence, declaring martial law to maintain order. It was also around this time that the three shadowlords appeared at Stonegate. They were powerful, evil creatures, who could warp the minds of men and turn them away from the three principles. 'Tis said they could draw on "the power of the vortex" to transport themselves instantly anywhere in the realm. It was a dark time. The Avatar was summoned back to Britannia, and ultimately managed to rescue Lord British before the collapse of the Underworld, restoring him to his rightful place on the throne.

In-Game Manuals

On the Reading of Books

Reading books can be an enriching and entertaining pastime. You'll find that the more books you read, the more you will know about the world, its inhabitants, and its history.
In books, you can even find clues that you may otherwise miss. After opening a book, left click on the folded page corner in the top right to turn the page. To turn back to the first page of a book, simply click on the bookmark.
You can turn to the previous page by left clicking on the folded corner in the top left. Once you have finished reading the book, press escape or right click anywhere on the book to close it.

Journal

This tome contains:

History of Britannia
Bestiary of Britannia
Options
Save/Load
Credits

Take this book with you, for important information learned throughout your quest will also be stored here for you to reference at any time.

Adventuring Supplies

Denim shirt/pants
Backpack
Tool belt
Compass
Bug spray
Bread
Fruit
First Aid kit
Weapon

Equipping Items

There are many things that you will want to take with you, and some that you will simply use. Your tool belt, clothes, backpack, journal, and compass will need to be taken with you.
To do this, left click on the object and drag it onto yourself, then release. To simply use an item, just left click on it where it is.
Some items can be either taken or used. For example, you can eat food by left clicking on it, or you can left click and drag it onto your backpack or tool belt to take it with you for later.

Damage and Armor

When fighting, it is important to remember two things:

Weapons will obviously do damage, but armor will always absorb damage. You will only inflict damage if your weapon does more damage than your opponent's armor absorbs. Many beasts have natural armor, so you will need a strong weapon to damage the more powerful creatures.
Watch the meters at the top of your screen to see your weapon and armor rating. The bar on the right will show you the comparative rating of your weapon, compared to other weapons in Britannia. Remember, though, that this is only a general rating; different weapons will have different effects against various types of creatures.
The bar on the left will show you your armor rating. This will give you a general idea of the effectiveness of your armor. There are, however, some magical armor pieces that may not absorb as much damage as the sturdier garb, but may have other important benefits.
Each weapon has special attacks, which will also give you different results against different creatures. Britannia boasts many skilled fighters who will be able to train you in these new techniques.

Spells for the Beginner

Everyone wants to learn to cast spells. Not all spells are for the beginner, however. Some spells are simple, and do not require any mana points to use, like ignite, douse, or stone. But these spells, while handy, are not the ones that will really impress a date. Most everyone in Britannia has already seen the douse spell, or the gust spell. The real way to attract attention is to find the higher level spells! Once you've gained the skill and the mana to use it, you'll be casting lightning storms and summoning demons with the best of them. The higher the level of a spell, the more mana it will consume, so be careful not to try too hard to impress people with your magical abilities. There are tales of a mage named Haertes who was summoning reagents, then cast a charm spell to secure the attractions of a young lady, and was then promptly eaten by a nearby dragon because he had no mana left to fight back. His attempted tryst was unsuccessful, to say the least. Be sure that this doesn't happen to you, and watch your mana closely!

Spellbook

This book will enable you to cast spells, from the small to the spectacular.

On the Binding of Spells

To add a spell to your spellbook, one must find a binding Pentagram, which can be identified by the candles placed at each of the five points. Then one must place the spell scroll and reagents in the center of the Pentagram, light each of the candles, and recite the incantation for the spell.

Hawkwind's Note

Avatar,
Here is a list of the skills you must learn and tasks you must perform before departing Earth for Britannia. Read one section at a time and then do what is described. Refer back to this as often as you need.

Learn basic movement and the use of items here in your home.
-Look with the mouse, and walk by holding down the right mouse button.
-Use items by left clicking on them, such as the TV, clock, alarm, books, etc.
-I have marked some items of special interest for you.
-Get dressed by left click and dragging clothes onto yourself.
-Equip your tool belt, used for storage and quick access via function keys.
There are more items of interest downstairs.
-Equip your backpack from the bookcase. Press "B" to open it. Right click to close.
-Get the gate key from your desk.
-Take your compass from the living room.
-Don't forget your journal. You will use this to save and load your game, and important information will be stored here.
-Some food might be nice! Left click on food to eat it.
Your next task is to train in combat beside your house. You will find your weapons outside.
-Play hopscotch. Learn to walk left, right, backwards, & jump.
To leave your yard, you will need the gate key from your desk.
-With the key in your inventory, left click on the gate.
Explore and learn some advanced skills in the park nearby.
-Run down the trail by using the shift key, or press Caps Lock to make run your default.
-Learn climbing at the log on the scenic trail to the left.
-Watch out for wolves... you may have to fight.
Practice swimming in the pond.
-Look down while swimming to dive, and look up to surface. Don't stay under too long!

You are now ready for your adventures in Britannia. Seek out the gypsy in her wagon. She will guide you the rest of the way.

Your Friend,
Hawkwind

Poison and its Effects

Poison is a constant danger, so be alert and try to keep a cure on hand when possible.
When poisoned, your vision will be distorted, and you will see the effect as a green flush creeping across your health bar. If you do not find a cure, your health will begin to decrease, and you will eventually lose the portion of your health that is showing green.
Beware of unclean environments, where toxins thrive. Beware also of certain unclean creatures, such as rats, as well as some creatures who are naturally poisonous, such as spiders.

SAILING FOR DUMMIES

Click on the ship to take control of the vessel. Once you have control, hold down the right mouse button to move forward. Your captain will stay on the ship with you.
Click the left mouse button to fire the forward cannons if you encounter any enemies. Hit ESC to weigh anchor and walk around the ship. If the water is shallow enough, you'll even be able to get off, explore, and get back on by left clicking on the ship.
Since docking is more difficult, your captain will take control when you get close to a dock and sail you into port.

Creation of Potions

First you will need to place a flask full of water along with the proper reagent on an alchemy set. Use the alchemy set while the proper ingredients are in place to create the potion. Be careful, though, for if your ingredients are incorrect, you could create an explosion or poison.

Sage’s Big Book of Potions

Cure Poison: Red
Garlic has been rumored to stave off noxious undead, and can also be used to create a potion to cure poison.

Heal Potion: Yellow
The ancients wrote about the regenerative properties of Ginseng, which can also be used to create healing potions.

Water Breathing: Blue
The oxygen in the blood of Blood Moss allows the drinker of a blue potion extended visits underwater.

Mana Recovery: Orange
The same magical property that Spider Silk uses to bind spells can also be used to bind more mana from the ether to the drinker.

Poison: Green
The deadly Nightshade mushroom, when brewed, makes an even deadlier potion.

Invulnerability Potion: Purple
Mandrake Root is the most powerful of all the reagents. If one drinks a potion made from it, one is temporarily invulnerable.

Infernal Armor: White
The fiery properties of Sulphurous Ash can be used to create a white potion that, when drunk, provides armor of flame.

Invisibility Potion: Black
A good alchemist can draw the darkness from a Black Pearl and transform it into a black potion of invisibility.

Virtues of the Gargoyles

Control

All begins with the three principles: Control, Passion and Diligence.

From Control springs Direction.
Control combines with Passion to give Balance.
And Diligence joins with Control to provide Precision.
The absence of Control, Passion and Diligence is Chaos.

Passion

All begins with the three principles: Control, Passion, and Diligence.
From Passion springs Feeling.
Control combines with Passion to give Balance.
Passion combines with Diligence to yield Achievement.
The absence of Control, Passion, and Diligence is Chaos.

Diligence

All begins with the three principles: Control, Passion and Diligence.
From Diligence springs Persistence.
Passion combines with Diligence to yield Achievement.
And Diligence joins with Control to provide Precision.
The absence of Control, Passion and Diligence is Chaos.

Order

All begins with the three principles: Control, Passion and Diligence.

From Control springs Direction.
From Passion springs Feeling.
From Diligence springs Persistence.
But these three virtues are no more important than the other five:
Control combines with Passion to give Balance.
Passion combines with Diligence to yield Achievement.
And Diligence joins with Control to provide Precision.
The absence of Control, Passion and Diligence is Chaos.
Thus the absence of the principles points toward the seventh virtue, Order.
The three principles unify to form Singularity.
This is the eighth virtue, but it is also the first, because within Singularity can be found all the principles, and thus all
the virtues.

Books in Gargish

Kodeks Benmontas

dur anmurde vastim ui volde lem monte anvolde lem. ista ver ew behde. a ui nes tutim reski lem an min persa de ui. zentu ku an uiscar ansa por. a ni sa zentu ku an porcar. tu nes per te pri si kui re leinle. er duk anvolde lem, ew ark lem de via feltas. a duk lem ku lentas ew vervid.

The Book of Administration

(Translation)
For countless ages, we winged ones have led the wingless ones. This is right and proper. But we must always remember that they are no less valuable than we. A body with no head cannot move. But neither can a body with no legs. All must function in unity if anything is to be achieved. So guide the wingless ones and keep them from paths of error. But guide them with respect.

Kodeks Benommani

vas praetim, vas vidlem naksatilor kalle kodeks ante termur. ita rele vastim benommani. kodeks terle ante terort pritas, teresta re vidle pa lem nesde vasuis. vidlem terreg, monle pa naksatilor, juksarkle kodeks ku saeykt grav. sol lem ad omde vestas trak uis canle terpor ew leg kodeks. ante kodeks skrile pri ben ew ver res kui kuae. lem nes sol terpor kodeks, leg lem, ew inuislok lemde monuis aptade. ku verinde uis ew ankadsa ski, tu mante est ten un, or, ew us nesle re pos apta via. ista est desintas uide murom, ew ita uide zenmur sa per kodeks uisde ew bende. ista est kuauis kodeks est: re mon gargh zenmur trak ultim benommani.

The Book of Prosperity

(Translation)
Long ago, the great seer Naxatilor summoned the Codex into the world. Thus began the great time of prosperity. The Codex was placed within the Temple of Singularity, there to be viewed by those requiring its knowledge. The seers of the land, led by Naxatilor, protected the Codex with a forcefield. Only those upon sacred quests for wisdom are allowed to reach and read the Codex. Within the Codex is written the one right and true answer to any problem. One has but to reach the Codex, read it, and interpret its advice properly. With perfect wisdom and infallible knowledge, all that remains is to have the control, passion and diligence required to follow the proper course. These are the underpinnings of our society, and so our race is able to use the Codex wisely and well. This is the reason why the Codex exists: to lead the Gargoyle race to ultimate prosperity.

Kodeks Destermur

alt desde terreg ai ali terreg. ante esta terreg manite mur aniw zen. plu tri de ista zen vid zaw ve uide anvolde lem. ista daemon ade pal ew delsa. kualem lokte ista daemon de destermur sa lok. ew kerde, lem inte son esta misve uide liy. a kua lemmur uiste, an zen anku vol verde uis. feluis de lokde daemon nes ankredle.

The Book of The Underworld

(Translation)
Deep below the land there is another land. In that land live many strange creatures. The most interesting of these creatures look something like our wingless ones. These daemons, however, are pale and soft. Some say that these daemons from the underworld can speak. And, to be sure, they make sounds that are similar to our language. But as everyone knows, no creature without wings is truly intelligent. Fables of talking daemons must be discredited.

Kodeks Kir

tu rete ku qi aksi: un, or, ew us. de un sal traktas. de or sal sent. de us sal tepertas. a ista qi bentas an plu mag de sekde pen: un kuporte ku or re don mistas. or kuporte ku us re don leintas. ew us int ku un re don benintas. anai de un, or, ew us est anord. ita anai de aksi vidukte trak semde bentas, ord. qi aksi priinte re in pritas. ista est okde bentas, a lem mistim pri, kuauis kuante pritas sa venle tu aksi, ew ita tu bentas. kir ten an fin. lem teinte tutim, ku tu car parde mag te benfin de tutas. uide murom mis. lem mis teinte tutim, ku tu carzen, ew tu bentas, par car de priinle tutas.

The Book of Circles

Main article: The Book of Circles

(Translation)
All begins with the three principles: Control, Passion and Diligence. From Control springs Direction. From Passion springs Feeling. From Diligence springs Persistence. But these three virtues are no more important than the other five: Control combines with Passion to give Balance. Passion combines with Diligence to yield Achievement. And Diligence joins with Control to provide Precision. The absence of Control, Passion and Diligence is Chaos. Thus the absence of the principles points toward the seventh virtue, Order. The three principles unify to form Singularity. This is the eighth virtue, but it is also the first, because within Singularity can be found all the principles, and thus all the virtues. A circle has no end. It continues forever, with all parts equally important in the success of the whole. Our society is the same. It too continues forever, with all members (and all virtues) equal parts of the unified whole.

Kodeks Rit

vervid ben kua i, naksatilor, skri kuo i porle kodeks uide terreg ew estade kalle ante tim benommani: ku auks lorrelinlem i beninle vorteks lorrel, o kua i le vid kodeks kuater lem terinit anporle. i inle vorteks kuad re inbet grav ok orblap ew trakpor vorteks destrak termur. estatim i perle lorrel re inuislor kodeks ad kuad. vorteks tanle uide terailem, uislor inle ailemde, ew kodeks porle des re perle bende pa uide zenmur.

The Book of Ritual

(Translation)
Heed well as I, Naxatilor, write of how I brought the Codex to our land and thereby ushered in the time of prosperity: With the help of the Lensmaker I crafted the Vortex Lens, by which I could see the Codex where it originally rested. I created the Vortex Cube to focus the power of the Moonstones and draw the Vortex down to the world. Then I used the lens to form an image of the Codex upon the cube. The Vortex touched our plane, the image became solid, and the Codex was brought down to be used properly by our race!

Kodeks Xen

kuatim betlem grespor de ov, lem inzenle anku vol. a vel de inzen lem sa ski si betlem re invas est volde au anvolde lem. anvolde lem ansa lok, ew anten skitas de volde lem. lem nes dukle. volde lem anmur, a lem kredonle ku skitas ew uis de zenmur. lem nes dukte. sek volde ew anvolde lem sal de mis ov, ew sek dete de mis xen. tu per ve pride tutas, re plu ben inten agratas trak temanitas ante uide termur.

The Book of Family

(Translation)
When a child hatches from his egg, he is born without wings. But even from birth one can tell whether a child will grow up to be a winged or a wingless one. The wingless ones cannot speak, and lack the intelligence of the winged ones. They must be guided. The winged ones are few, but they are entrusted with the intelligence and wisdom of the race. They must guide. Both winged and wingless ones spring from the same eggs, and both belong to the same family. All function as a single whole, to better maintain the struggle for survival in our world.

Video Games by Origin

Knights of Legend, Volume I

Once, in the kingdom of Ashtalarea, there was a great war. For a time it seemed the forces of evil would triumph, but through the valiant efforts of Seggallion, the greatest knight in the land, the forces of the dark lord Pildar were finally driven back and defeated. All was well for a time, but years later Pildar had grown powerful again. From his dark tower he wove his evil schemes, and managed to capture the Duke, and the great knight Seggallion as well. With his greatest foe out of the way, he was prepared once more to set out on a campaign of conquest. In those troubled times, a party of great heroes arose. After many perilous adventures they finally won their way to Seggallion's prison and set him free. They then set forth to discover what had become of the Duke...

Windwalker

In exotic Khantun, there was a benevolent Emperor known as Chao Ti. He ruled wisely and well until his Warlord, Zhurong, acquired an elixir from the evil alchemist Shen Jang to put the Emperor into a coma. Evil spirits from the Astral Plane took over shrines throughout the land, and it was a dark time. But a young student, after completing his studies of the martial arts in a small monastery, managed to liberate the shrines, defeat the warlord, and cure the Emperor with the Elixir of Immortality. Long will his name be honored in Khantun.

The Caverns of Freitag

A great dragon named Freitag came unto the Mystic Isles, and there was much fear and anguish amongst the populace. One day the warrior Gertan set forth to beard the dragon in her lair, a vast series of caverns inhabited by strange creatures. He drove Freitag away from the land, and there was much rejoicing.

Tangled Tales

Once upon a time, in a strange land far away, there was a wizard's apprentice. His master, Eldritch, sent him on three quests, knowing he would learn his lessons best with the real world as his classroom. He encountered many strange and wonderful things. Ghouls and griffins stood in his way, and ghosts and giants as well. But he also found new friends, and brave adventurers to help him. He rode on a flying carpet, and on the back of a giant turtle.
Finally, after exploring an abandoned mine, a pyramid, and a castle in the clouds, he finished his third quest. He had learned so much on his journeys that his master rewarded him well, and declared him a wizard in his own right. He soon opened a school of his own, and as the years passed, and students came and went, his beard grew long with years.

Struck Commander

by Gilberto
This tome is the fanciful story of a man who, along with several comrades, gains access to a flying vehicle (much like a cart) and uses his abilities to fight terrorists and despotic monarchs who employ mercenaries using their own flying carts.

Other Books

A Memory of Stones

by Amy
As a child, I remember hearing the song 'Stones' and associating that with Lord British. My mother would tell me it was his favorite song, and that he would play it on his harpsichord in his room for hours. I even read in my books on the Avatar that the song was used to open a secret door that revealed Lord British's sandalwood box! I learned the song from a bowyer near Britain named Iolo, who said it was a favorite of his, too, and I've loved to play it ever since.

10,001 Uses for a Silver Serpent

The Silver Serpent is known for its insidious venom, which can be a dangerous and heavily addictive drug. When in the right hands, however, the venom can be refined to create one of Britannia's most valuable elixirs, Serpentwyne. Serpentwyne is known to cure poison, restore health, and prolong the life of the elderly.

Orbits of the Moons

As our twin moons, Trammel and Felucca, orbit our planet in their perfect, unchanging orbits, scientists speculate as to what might happen should there be a gravitational shift caused by any number of cataclysmic events. The gravitational pull would surely be altered, making their orbits extremely unstable. Should this unthinkable event happen, the moons might actually collide with the planet, causing a massive ecological disaster like none we have seen in our time.

Sir Drake’s Note

Sir Reynald,
Should you wish to join us after we have sealed off Destard, you will need to be able to find the secret entrance, because should we succeed, the main entrance will be unpassable.
The main entrance can be found near the small town of Dawn, close to the column on the west coast of Britain. From the main entrance, look to the east. Atop a snowy mountain to the east and slightly south of the main entrance will be an icy patch that blocks the way into the dungeon.
-Sir Drake

Creed of the Guild

None may enter a guild house without paying fealty. Those who have sworn their allegiance must be clearly marked with a brand, thus showing their willingness to be known and recognized as lifelong members of the guild.
No member of the guild will be forced to pay high prices when dealing with a shopkeeper who is friendly to the guild.

The significance of the number eight in current society: A Dissertation

by Sir Perky
We can find great significance to the number eight in the modern era. This is illustrated in the following examples:
There are eight virtues, each with their corresponding city.
There are eight dungeons, each associated with a city.
There are eight traditional companions of the Avatar, each hailing from a different city.

Mathis’ Note

To my dearest son,
I fear you will return to a desecrated home. The goblin raids are becoming more frequent and more intense every day.
All of the men have gone off to hunt for the goblin camp, but we have little hope that they will return. Most of the women have already left. They believed that by seeking help in Yew that our prayers would be answered. Sadly, they were told that our problem was not a concern of the people of Yew.

Mathis, I have written you this letter so that you might know what happened to your family. I know that my heart has been empty not knowing what has befallen you; I would not wish that same emptiness on you. I only wish that you had talked to me before running away. We could have worked things out, dear one.
I love you, Mathis.
Remember me...
Your loving mother,
Lila

Katie’s Note

Dearest Samhayne,
Surely if you are reading this, you have met my daughter Katie. Though you have not seen her most of her life, I knew you would help her find a job there, which is why I have sent her to you. Take care of her, Samhayne, and of yourself.
-Rebecca

Killigan’s Note

Killigan, you sniveling idiot,
You have failed in your duties. The people are showing compassion again, and if you want to keep your favor with my Master, you'd better find a way to fix it. And while you're at it, earn your pay and get rid of that pathetic Avatar. He's becoming quite a thorn in our side.
-Blackthorn

Jordan’s Journal

Day 1
I'm on my way to Valoria! I know this will be easier than Sir Robin said it would be. After hearing him in the tavern in Britain talking about the monsters and demons in Valoria, you'd think they were immortal! He looked like a coward to me... I'm surprised they even let him be a Knight of Valor. I know I'm better suited than him, so they'll surely let me in after I've solved their demon problem.

Day 2
The ship is holding together well, despite the storms that are brewing. My mother Flann was worried about me going off across the ocean alone, but she'll feel much better once I can send her word that I've become a Knight of Valor. Imagine her little Jordan being a Knight! She'll be so proud.

Day 4
I don't know what to do now... my ship is ruined! The storm grew worse, and the ship is now wrecked on the south side of the island. I tried to make it to the docks, but the winds were just too strong to fight. I went to the entrance to the Fortress of Valoria, thinking they might help me by providing a new ship, but they won't even let me in the front gate! I can't believe these are the Knights of Valor that I've always heard about. Compared to these guys, Sir Robin back in the tavern was a brave man. I could have sworn that the guard at the front gate was even afraid of me.

Day 6
This is horrible. What was I thinking? No wonder those Knights are always staying locked in their fortress. This place is crawling with undead, and I fear for my life. I was attacked by a zombie today, and thought I was fine, until another one came out of nowhere and almost killed me. I was lucky to get away, but my sword was snatched from me. My enchanted bow is still in the chest on my ship, but there's some huge crab there now, and without a sword, I can't get past it to get to my bow. More than anything, I just want to leave this place.

Day 8
It is with a heavy heart that I write this last entry, and I know it will be my last. This morning I was wounded in another attack, and I can feel the poison spreading. All I can do now is wait, and write this last entry in the hopes that someday my loving mother may see these words. To you, Flann, my mother, I am sorry I left you. I wish with all my heart that I had stayed with you, to help you take care of all of my brothers and sisters. With my dying breath, I want you to know that I love you.

Your adoring son,
Jordan

Baking Bread

Jastral's Special Recipe for Baking Bread

In order to make the bread, start with a bread pan. Then add the following ingredients in any order:
- Flour. Place on the ground next to flour sack and use the sack, this will measure out the proper amount of flour.
- Water. Add a full flask of water to the pan.
- Two eggs. Add two eggs to the pan.

Take the pan of dough and place it in the oven. A few moments later you should have some quality home-baked bread.

Ched’s Book of Vultures

Someone told me once there was no good book written about vultures. Well, I think that's because they spend all their time up in the mountains, and seem to like high places. They also hate fire, so they to avoid building their nests near a camp. Maybe they're afraid their nests will catch fire.

Moongates

Most citizens of Britannia have heard stories of magical portals known as Moongates. In fact, the stories are true. The Twin moons of Britannia, Trammel and Felucca, cause the Moongate to rise and set as they move through the firmament. These Moongates are magical gateways that can take one far across the land, even across time and through the firmament. The mechanism as to why is little understood, but the few who have mastered the Moongates secrets have been able to use them as vehicle of great adventure.

Ocean Travel Without a Boat?

Swimming the ocean may sound like an exciting venture, but it can be dangerous to swim in places that are too deep! The waters in an ocean are turbulent and can cause a person to lose their breath and drown quickly. If you see your breath meter going down at an extremely rapid rate, this is a good sign that the waters are too deep! You would do best to turn around and swim back to safer waters, and enlist the services of a boat captain.

The Big Bad Knight’s Guide to Mercy

When fighting, it is not always necessary to kill one's opponents. Often, a good hard hit with a non-bladed weapon can put them out of commission long enough for you to do whatever needs to be done, without taking their life. It is recommended to be far away when the victim recovers, however, for the resulting headache has been known to make people a bit crabby.

Despise Guard’s Journal

Day 1
'Guard the post', he says. Ha! What am I guarding it from? This is stupid. It's not like any of the troublemakers from Britain are going to come here, since we've sent them all away. Good riddance, too. People were always coming over, trying to borrow a broom here, or a hoe there. Then they'd keep it for hours before bringing it back. You'd think if they needed one for that long, they'd go out and buy one.

Day 2
This is it! I'm not coming in tomorrow. Since that clumsy miller lost his arm and was sent away with the other decrepit folk, the baker hasn't made any bread, and now I have to make a trip to get some. If the miller had been more careful, we wouldn't be in this situation. I really should give him a piece of my mind, but then I'd have to go to Paws, and I've heard that place smells. I'd rather just go get the bread.

How to keep people from stealing from your shop

Glue! You'll be amazed at how little you'll lose to thieves if you just glue your merchandise to the table.

Julia’s Journal

Day 1
Today I started my journey into the Covetous Mines, as per Lord British's instructions. I've been trying to talk to folk around here, but they don't seem to want to listen to my advice. However, they are not shy about asking me for money! I'm almost certain this behavior has to do with that awful column, so I am hoping to find more clues in the mines. So far I have not been able to find anything but a large number of undead, who's numbers have mysteriously risen with the amount of miners missing.

Day 2
I spent much of the day talking to the gypsies trying to find out more about the mines. It 's hard to talk to people, since everyone seems preoccupied with bickering amongst themselves... especially in Cove! Last night near the lake, I heard sounds of fighting coming from Cove. When I ran over, I noticed a riot between many of the Cove folk. At first I considered getting involved, but then realized it was their problem, not mine. I came home to find my belongings searched, and half of my gold missing!

Day 3
I came back late from the mines again, very frustrated at not having found anything. I am getting tired of these gypsies complaining and demanding things from me. Later, I went to Cove to buy some more supplies (mine were mysteriously missing) and met this little girl Dayla who was whining about her doll. I went to her home to investigate, and I found it under some boards. I decided to keep it for myself, as it's a nice enough doll that I can probably sell for some gold. After all, these people have been taking my things as they please, and I deserve something back. I am going to make a final trip into the mines this evening.

Joshua’s Diary

My Diary

Day 1
I've been trying to research what is going on with the moons. I can't understand it, but it seems as if they are moving closer and closer to each other.
This is definitely not a good thing. When the moons are out of alignment, the whole balance of Britannia can be upset. I will have to look more into this.

Day 2
I've noticed some unruly types have begun to take up residence on our wonderful island. I intend to keep my eye on them.

Day 3
Yes, now I'm quite sure, The moons are definitely moving toward each, and at an alarming rate.
I need some more supplies so that I can continue my research. If only I could find that darn boy of mine so that I could send him to get them.
I love my son, Leeland, but lately he has been acting strangely. He has been telling ridiculous lies to everyone in town, and neglecting his studies.
I don't know what has gotten into him.

Day 6
I can't believe it! Someone has stolen my journal! I can't finish my work without it. I asked Leeland if he took it, but of course he won't ever tell me the truth anymore.
I wonder if it was those ruffians who are living on the island now.

Kiran’s Compendium

After some years of research, I have created a compendium of magical armor in Britannia.

Kiran Shield
I include this because my own father spent years creating shields and weaponry before he began studying the art of enchanting. His final creation was a shield that gives the bearer a bonus to their magical reserves. The shield was left in my possession, but each of my brothers felt it belonged to them. I have placed the shield in the dungeon of Despise, and hidden it, only to be found when the key is placed on the proper stands. I have divided the key, the Kiran Stone, and given each of my brothers the location of one of the pieces, in the hopes that they might put aside their differences and work together to find the shield that belonged to our father and mentor.

The rest of the book seems to be missing.

A Tale of Solwen the Bard

By Eretria

Oh, let me tell of a man so rare
The women cry and the men do stare
And as he travels 'neath the moons,
He'll sing you songs and heal your wounds.

Instruments ever at his side
His name is known both far and wide
And when you need rescue or help,
He'll save you before himself.

Against undead, 'gainst mage or dart,
His blinding speed takes them apart.
Against a liche, or spiders too,
His skill makes little hard to do.

Oh, if you see this wonderful bard,
Ask him if he'll be your guard
For with him there, no matter where you be,
You'll be safe and worry-free.

Warden Bob’s Note

To all Guards of Wrong:
Be on the watch for the Avatar. It is believed he will be attempting to break Raven out of prison. Imprison the Avatar on sight.
Warden Bob

Wislem’s Note

To have already told you how to use these boots, but to know that you are wingless and stupid, and must have instructions to use Boots of Levitation! To jump while wearing the boots will make you able to walk on air. Then to jump again will make you fall. To know you are not bright, Deresh, so to not try to jump while high in midair!
To also remember that these boots will not work without the power of the Dome, so to not try to use them outside.
-Wislem

Alchemist Journal

Melvin the Mage

...mad? They call me mad? I pity the fools. They have no idea how close I am!

My years of research are close to fruition. A flying spell! Soon, so soon.

Then, we'll see the difference between genius, and madness! "Melvin the Mad"? Never!

...several failures, all of which nearly killed me. Yet, defeat is not in my nature!

In my next attempt, I shall try combining the light and dark, the day and night. Nightshade and Light are the key!

Only in that way can the force of weight be inverted. And yet, there seems something missing...

...no way to know the effects in advance, but I'm now certain the missing agent is feathers! But what amount to use?

I borrowed a few from a bluebird who "volunteered" (rest in peace, ha-ha!)

Now, my moment of glory is at hand! Then, I shall make my laughing "peers" pay dearly.

If I succeed, I must destroy this journal, the only record in existence of my trials...

The Ritual

By Naomi

While centered in a sacred circle
Performing a ritual of ecstasy
You've summoned my Deity of passion
Unknowing of the power she provides

Overwhelmed by this festival of flesh
You're ignited by an internal flame
I release your spirit on an astral adventure
Guiding your senses to its zenith

As though being born to a new realization
An ached cry escapes your lips
As the magic of the ancients boils in your veins
You release your soul unto me

Moon

By Naomi

The power that lies within the moon
Has once again cast its spell

Entranced by it's beauty and mystery,
I'm pulled by its powerful force

Lost in the light of the moon's sacred song
I begin to call out to thee:

"Awaken your beast of passion for me
Let me honor you with my touch

Let me worship the temple that is you
Let my body be my offering

Let me inhale your passionate ways
Celebrate the flesh of each other

Writhe in the delight of a powerful lust
That evokes from me with your touch

Mystic

By Naomi

I lay in a shallow pool of tenderness
I stare at a blue sky full of possibilities
As the day wears on the sun begins to fade
Casting a hue of passionate orange & pink embers

Watching the transformation from innocence to sin
The Grey shadows of darkness presents a jeweled sky
Numb from the pool of tenderness, I embrace my mystic night
Slowly writhing in the breath of his atmosphere

My lungs fill with the intensity of desire
A need for the mystic to expose his depth
To place a chilled kiss of emptiness upon my lips
I lay in his shallow pool of tenderness

Timelord’s Note

Avatar,
If you are reading this, then I know you have heeded my words well, and have accomplished great deeds. You may remember me as a name from the past, but I have been more involved in your life than you may realize. We share a past and a present, but for me, the past is as the future. In a future that I hope you shall not see, evil has desecrated the land, and our once great Britannia is now long dead. King Blackthorne [sic] now reigns, and I assure you he is not a kind ruler. I have returned to your time to leave you this spell, which will help you to defeat his traps. I cannot aid you directly, for Blackthorne [sic] has long had an interest in repaying me for the services I did British, and I fear he would not take my interference kindly. Use this power well, Avatar, and may the virtues be with you.
Hawkwind
The Timelord

The Story of the Demon Triumvirate

Before the days of Mondain, there were the Demon Triumvirate. These brothers of evil have long waited to enter our land, and the upsurgence of great columns of evil have opened the way for them to invade our realm.
These creatures are but one creature in its three component parts, and must be treated as such to be defeated. If one is attacked, it merely transfers its mortality to another of its components, and is not able to be damaged. To destroy this creature, the three components must be attacked simultaneously, so there is no way for the beast to ward of the attack onto one of its brothers.
The Demon Triumvirate is aware of this limitation, and will never be seen together. To overcome this, three valiant soldiers will be needed to go to each of the demons and slay them at the same time.
These words may only be read by one with the personal strength and courage to destroy the Demon Triumvirate. Use this power wisely to bring an end to their reign.

Dragon CookBook

101 ways to serve Dragon

Dragon Flambe
Dragon scale soup
Dragon fritters in Ale Batter
Casseroled Dragon with Herbs and Spices
Dragon and flower salad
Sweet and Sour Dragon
Dragon Raisin Bread
Mesquite Grilled Dragon
Dragon's head enarmed
Roast Dragon
Braised Dragon Legs
Dragon Consomme
Dragon Pignole
Dragon Tenderloins
Curried Breast of Dragon
Dragon Dumplings
Gingered Dragon w/Vegetables
Lemon Rice with Dragon
Marinated Dragon
Mediteranean Dragon Kabobs
Pepper Dragon
Dragon Chops with Grapes
Sauteed Breast of Dragon
Shredded Dragon with Ginger
Stuffed Crown of Dragon
Barbecue Baby Dragon Wings
Smoked Dragon Enchildas
Candied Dragon
Dragon Fricassee
....
* - turkey legs seem to go well as a side dish..

Destard Secret

There is a secret to the pillars.. but alas my quest for the magic shells might not ever be completed. I am no match for the monsters that dwell beneath the lair.. Talornias cult had devised a magic that would keep her protected by using the power of her first hatchling egg.. there were mystical properties around it and once the magic was discovered, it was destroyed and shattered into 5 separate parts hidden throughout the dungeon.. so that it might never fall in the wrong hands.

Companions’ Note

Lord British,
We will wait at the columns as you have asked. When you have received the runes of virtue from the Avatar, we will be ready to help you and the Avatar defeat the Guardian at last.
Good luck to you as well, Avatar!

-Your faithful friends,
Iolo
Shamino
Julia
Dupre
Jaana
Katrina
Mariah
Geoffrey

Darim’s Journal

This is the journal of Darim Kensington:

Day 37: I tried to escape her but failed. All I managed to do was to get myself lost in this enormous dungeon. I found some food by scrounging through the pockets of the dead, but there's not much and I'm running out of time. I think that the Wyrmguard spotted me and are after me. There aren't many places left to hide. I can hear the screams of the tortured and the smell of death grows stronger each day. I don't know how much longer I can survive in this place. I can only pray my beloved Adreanna is safe.

Darim Kensington

Timelord’s Note

Avatar,
If you are reading this, then I know you have heeded my words well, and have accomplished great deeds. We share both a past and a present, but for me, the past is as the future. In a future that you shall not see, evil has triumphed, and our once great Britannia is now long dead. King Blackthorn now reigns, and I assure you he is not a kind ruler. I cannot aid you directly, for Blackthorn has long had an interest in repaying me for the services I did British, and I fear he would not take my interference kindly.
I can, however, give you temporary control over the forces of Time. In this room, there is a pit that is deeper than the others. Take my scroll and go into that pit. You will find a teleport there that will aid you in binding the new spell. Be careful, for the spell does not last long.
I wish you luck, and hope that my present will never come to be your future.
Your friend,

Hawkwind
The Timelord

Blackthorn’s Note

My dear Avatar,
After all of this strife, it is time, finally, for us to bring this dispute of ours to a conclusion. If you're truly the 'Hero of Britannia' that you claim to be, meet me in the Abyss so that we may end this matter once and for all. You have escaped my grasp once, and I wont let it happen again.
I do wish you luck getting to the Abyss, however, as you will find the Isle of the Avatar has been rendered invisible to mere mortals such as yourself. You will also have no luck getting information from those pathetic followers of spirituality in Skara Brae, as my master, the Guardian, has already wiped it off the planet. Feel free to check it out for yourself."
Yours,
Blackthorn

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Ydjrffjhs hte jhhdsfe, Fofufq.

Spy Journal

Entry 1
I have been spying upon the Avatar like Lord Blackthorn asked. I'm not sure what I am to find but hopefully something of import will arrise.

Entry 2
Not much of interest today, he spent a lot of time talking with the people of Trinsic and did a little exploring of the island.

Entry 3
He is moving fast, I was almost caught near the outfitter and again near the blacksmith. Thankfully, I avoided capture, Lord Blackthorn would not have been pleased.

Entry 4
I followed the Avatar to the abandoned paladin fort where he collected some ashes that seemed to be of import.

Entry 5
The Avatar has spoken with a spirit! I have learned that the chalice of honor is hidden within the dungeon of Shame and that the mantra of honor is required to enter. Also, the mantra of honor is SUMM. I must inform Lord Blackthorn immediately so he may act before the Avatar does! I can almost taste the reward!

Entry 6
Some reward! Sent back out to camp to continue my spying without so much as a thank you! Perhaps if I bring Lord Blackthorn the Avatar's head I will gain some recognition.

The Pools of Covetous

by Menon the Scribe

A fascinating book going into agonizing detail on the properties of the pools of covetous.
The highlights include:
-Strange visions occur when placing a chunk of blackrock in the purple pools.
-The green pools seem to have a healing effect.

Lift Repair

This is a long treatise on intricate workings of mining lifts.
Written in the margin is the following:
"Steps to repairing lift if gear wheel breaks... again!

1) Find new gear wheel.
2) Turn off water.
3) Insert new gear.
4) Turn on water again.
5) Lift should work.

Demon Ritual

A burning skull
A red candle
A firey globe
A flask of blood
A severed head, annointed in blood

Sage’s Journal

My Journal
Something in the moons is causing the people of Moonglow to act quite unnaturally. They have all become liars. I even find myself falling into the same pit of deceit that governs them. Lately I have noticed that my son Leeland is acting the same. He has neglected his studies of the magical arts, and has instead found entertainment in leading wayward travellers on wild goose chases. I'm not sure what I should do about all of this.
Upon extensive study of the Moons from my telescope, I have noticed that they are indeed moving closer at a rate unparalleled for their normal behaviour this time of year. Thus I have concluded that something dire is about to happen to our beloved town, and quite possible, Britannia.
I went to that fool Tydus in hopes that he could answer my inquiry into the matter, and wouldn't you know, that fool actually had the gall to think he could charge me for his services. As if he was the one who owns the Oracle! He's claiming now that the Oracle specially requested that he act as a liason [sic] when an answer is needed. The Oracle is available to everyone!
I will continue my studies....

Book of Justice

'BEH' is the mantra that unlocks the power of Justice.
To find the Symbol of Justice, one must find a being who is pure and knows none of the petty prejudices that affect men. Such a being has not been seen in Brittania for many, many years, although it is rumored that one such creature was last sighted in the mountains to the northeast of the city of Yew.

Darim’s Journal

I tried to escape her, but I only managed to get myself lost in this enormous dungeon.. I had managed to find some food by scrounging through the pockets of the deceased but I am running out of time as well as food. The wyrmguard had spotted me and are after me. There aren't many places left to hide.
I do not know how much longer I can survive in this horrid place. I can hear the screams of the tortured and the smell of death grows stronger each day.
I can only pray my beloved Adreanna is alright..
Faithfully,
Darim Kensington

Shamino's Journal

Avatar, I know that you are journeying even now to save Britannia.
I am about to embark on a spiritual journey to see if I may fathom what exactly the nature of our enemy is.
This journey is a dangerous one, for it entails the separation of my spiritual self from my physical self.
If something were to disrupt the delicate balance between these two selves, I might be unable to return. If this is the case, then you, my friend, must help me.
For the ritual you must have the Bell of Courage, the Book of Truth, and the Candle of Love.
Only with these things will you be able to connect my two selves again.

Before the ritual can be complete you must remove the sacred fire that I have summoned to protect me.
You must light the braziers in this chamber in order to release the barrier. It is then, and only then that you will be able to complete the summoning ritual.
After you have removed the barrier, place the Bell, the Book, and the Candle on their correct stands. Use each of them, and recite the mantra of spirituality. This will complete the ritual.

Please hurry Avatar, Our time is very short...

Tristan's Journal

Journal of Tristan, King of Thieves

Day 1
Found an excellent vantage point from which to spy on the entrance to Britain. Makes our bandit raids that much easier.
...
Day 4
The raids go better than expected. At this rate, I'll be the most notorious thief in the history of Britannia in no time.
...
Day 6
Had to kill Julian today. He got a little too clever and greedy for his own good. Can't have him undermining my authority.
Too bad, he was a talented cutpurse.
...
Day 10
Our purses are getting fat! I need to find a good hiding place for our loot. I think I'll do some exploring tomorrow.
...
Day 11
Found a perfect place! There is a cave hidden in the lake above the waterfall. Even better, the only way to get to that lake is through a long tunnel inhabited by wolves (I had to kill one myself just to get down there). Across the bridge is a path leading up into a snowy valley where the tunnel entrance can be found. I'll have to check and see if I can find any good landmarks.
...
Day 13
There's a farmhouse just below the bridge. The family there can see us too easily as we traverse across it. Time to go on a little raid to take care of that problem.

Screetch’s Journal

my jurnel by screetch
- today, find cool cave. grom and me move in
- big bad man-things near broken house, try to hurt screetch. man things always try to hurt screetch.
- see bad man-things go behind house! rock move! me find rock but too big, cannot move. me confused.
- grom go look inside broken house see where how move rock
- grom no come back. me afeared man things hurt

Stonegate Cleaner

Day 1
I've been hired to keep Stonegate tidy, which is fine, but I really don't know about that ghost hanging around. He seems like a nice enough person, and he tries to be helpful, but it's just so strange to look at him and see through him. I saw some dirt on the floor through him the other day and I before I had time to think about it, I had walked right through him. Ever since then, he only appears as a disembodied voice. I don't think he liked having been walked through.

Day 2
This place is so hard to keep clean! First, the rats chewed through the harpsichord bench, and then all the earthquakes and shudders came, and started knocking bricks loose. Every time I get a brick put back into place, the Tower shudders again and they fall right back out! I'm not being paid enough for this.

Day 3
It's no wonder things have been shaking in here. I've just heard from my sister that there's been huge disruptions going on outside. She told me that her dog Kala was sleeping in the garden in front of her house, and some kind of tall red monstrosity came right up out of the ground right in the middle of her garden, and now her dog is stuck on top of it! My sister's pretty upset, so I'd better go try to help get her dog down. I should probably turn on the Tower defenses before I leave, or Hawkwind might be unhappy with me. What do ghosts do when they're unhappy? I'm not sure, but I don't want to find out.

The Bard’s Guide to Counterpoint

by Kenneth

A facinating tome covering the intricasies of melodic counterpoint.

Dealing with the Virtuous

by Gar Dian
A treatise on how to take advantage of those gullible, virtue-loving citizens of Britannia.

Iolo’s Melodies for Harp

by Iolo Fitzowen

Gwenno’s Song

by Iolo Fitzowen
Dedicated to my lovely wife, Gwenno. Thank you for all you've done.

Ye Lost Art of Ballooning

Back in the days of the Avatar's Quest, rumors spread of a strange sight in the skies. A tinker from the town of Minoc, claimed to have rediscovered the lost art of ballooning. According to ancient lore, this was a mystical practice that allowed one to soar through the air, higher than the birds themselves. No records have been found of the rituals used to perform this feat, but several farmers from the area still tell tales of strange sights. A strange sphere was seen, way up in the sky, and the voices of men could be heard drifting down from it. The apparition drifted up into the clouds and was lost to sight. This took place years ago, and naught has been heard of the mystic art of ballooning since that time.

To Be or Not To Be

by Wislem
To be the words comprising the complete Gargish primer, designed to educate the young gargoyle mind, both winged and wingless.

The Wizard of Oz

by Frank L. Baum
A little girl named Dorothy, from the far off land of Kansas was carried to the realm of Oz by a tornado. And her little dog, too! She met three faithful companions, who vowed to help her find a way home. There was a scarecrow, who was on a quest for truth, a man of tin, who was questing for love, and a lion, who quested for courage. Before their quest was done, little Dorothy slew the wicked witch, freeing the land from her evil influence. Her friends completed their quests, and she returned home to Kansas.

The Silence of Chastity

by I.M. Munk
The treatise on the monks of the Brotherhood of the Rose, including how they compare to their stereotypes.
...One common misconception is that monks still hold on to the outdated notion that "silence is golden." While this was, perhaps, a tenet they supported as late as 0103, no longer do the monks of the renowned Empath Abbey care to remain speechless...
...There is no doubt that monks love wine. Not only are there more monk stories centering on the creation of wine, but any visit to the Abbey will reveal just how much of the entire building is devoted to the formation the delicious mixture...

The Lost Book of Mantras

Ahm Kim Rum Bem Mu Dim Sum Kyo Ra Lox Nid Pey Beh Un Or Us Cah Biff Pow Ohm Summ Bang Lis Zowie Om Cow Frem Ort Lum Spam Mho Yum Tea Meow

Book of Prophecy

---

This section is about a book in Ultima IX. For other uses, see The Book of Prophecies (disambiguation).

---

Main article: The Book of Prophecies

by Naxatilor the Seer

An ancient prophecy tells of the final days. When the end of our world shall come. Three signs will precede the end. Thrice shall a being of great evil come into our land, and by this it shall be known that the end is nigh. This evil one is of another race, who consider the evil one a great prophet. Yet this false prophet follows not the principles of Control, Passion and Diligence.

One day the false prophet will come and desecrate our most holy shrine. And the false prophet will steal our most holy artifact, the Codex of Ultimate Wisdom. This shall be the first sign of the end. Then, it is written, the false prophet shall descend deep into the bowels of the earth. And the false prophet will cause the underworld to collapse. This will cause great earthquakes to tear our world asunder, and there will be a time of plague and famine. This shall be the second sign of the end.

One last time shall the prophet come. This time, the false prophet will come with a band of warriors. And they will destroy all that remains of the gargoyle race. There is only one way that this prophecy may be averted: That is by the sacrifice of the false prophet.

The Five Stages of Lawn Care

by A.P. Berk

This is the brilliant and witty depiction of the humorous antics of two young boys during one very hot summer in Britannia. From courting to practicing sword-play, the duo never seem to be able to avoid trouble. Though the boys grow up by the end of the story, they don't quite seem to lose all of their youthful instinct.

The Book of Spirituality

In your travels through life, remember always that Spirituality embodies the sum of all virtues. Chant the mantra as you meditate on Spirituality, and all will become clear to you.

Stranger in a Strange Land

by Robert Heinlein (First Edition)
The struggles of an individual from another planet who finds difficutly assimilating into his new society and culture.

Snilwit’s Big Book of Boardgame Strategy

Chess: Try to control the middle of the board with your knights, bishops, and pawns.
Nine Men's Morris: Don't let any of your pieces get trapped in the corners.
Draughts: Keep your pieces along the sides of the board, where they can't be captured.

Plant Lore

Mistletoe is easiest to find in the spring. Cut the sprigs with your left hand for greatest effectiveness. Hibiscus leaves can be used to make a tea which is excellent for sore throats. Never step on a dandelion, for it will anger any leprechaun who sees you do so.

Eulogy for Sir Ricardo

What can I tell thee of the great Sir Ricardo? He was friend, not one whom I spent a great deal of time with, yet one that I admired more than most. His recent death has touched me in ways I have not expected. I am sure that part of the reason, is that he is the first friend of my own generation to have died, and thus reminds me of my own mortality. But I know that it is more than that. Mostly I think that it has to do with how much I and all his friends and loved ones will miss him. It was always a joy to be with this bright, and cheerful soul.
My fondest early memories of Ricardo were on the fields of tournaments and battles. Sir Ricardo was an awesome force. I have seen him sweep grown men off their feet with a single powerful blow, sending them crashing bewildered to the ground. I have stood by his side as he led our squad crashing through a well entrenched enemy line knocking people aside as if they wee matchsticks.
In later years, I grew to cherish his wit and wisdom. In fact a more gallant, honorable man would be hard to find. He was a man of great integrity. Whenever he was a companion to any adventure or outing, you always knew that the events would be greatly enriched due to his participation.
I will miss Sir Ricardo
Shamino

Hubert’s Hair Raising Adventure

By Bill Pete
Hubert the lion was haughty and vain, and especially proud of his elegant main.
But conceit of this sort is not proper at all, and Hubert the lion was due for a fall.
One day as he sharpened his claws on a rock, he received a most horrible terrible shock.
A flaming hot spark flew up into the air, came down on his head and ignited his hair.

With a roar of surprise he was off like a streak, away through the jungle to Zamboozi creek.
He jumped in kersplash with a shower of bubbles, and came bobbing up with a head full of stubbles.
At first he just stared with a wide open mouth, at the cloud of black smoke drifting off to the south.
The he felt with his paws just in back of his ears, and suddenly realized the worst of his fears.

I'm Ruined he shouted oh what shall I do, I'd rather be dead or go live in a zoo.
And if anyone sees me, oh what a disgrace. I'd better discover a good hiding place.
He looked all around till he finally spied, an old hollow tree with a hole in one side.
He squeezed himself in, but the fit was too tight. The last half of Hubert was still in plain sight.

Works of JRRT

The Complete Works of J.R.R.Tolkien

Included in this collection is:
The Hobbit
The Lord of the Rings
The Two Towers
The Return of the King
The Silmarillian
The Father Christmass letters

Ethical Hedonism

A philosophical muse on the meaning of life and how one should live it.
By Richard Garriott

Why should I do unto others as I would have them do unto me? Why can't I poison the rivers and clear cut all the forests? Why must I obey the laws of state? Is it because some god will damn me to eternal hell? Well, that would be a good reason, but I believe a more basic reason is all that is needed.
Religions of the world outline moral codes of conduct by which one can live a successful life. But must one be religious to have such a code? In this book, I propose that such guidance can be found in mere thought alone. That logic and reason can guide you through the trials of life. At the very least, I think that what is outlined herein, can help you think about the beliefs you hold and why you hold them. In this way, I hope that after reading this, you will feel as I do that knowing why you believe something is as important as what you believe.
Other friends either here at Origin, or in my life have pondered this subject with me and later chapters will include their words and logic. I'd like to point out Herman Miller, long time friend and co-author of the Ultima series as a principal contributor.

Hedonism:
Life is to be lived to the fullest. Who does not hope that at their own end, they can smile knowing that they have enjoyed the journey. To each, enjoyed will be different. Some will want to have achieved greatness. Others will want to have left this world better than when they arrived. Some will just want to sit back and enjoy what life brings them.
If one lived alone on an otherwise lifeless deserted planet, one would feel free to do whatever one wished to pursue ones own happiness. If you wanted to poison all the waters or chop off your own arm, whatever made you happy should be okay. A life of unbridled Hedonism would be yours. It would be a lonely Hedonistic life, but it would be yours to do with as you and only you choose to make it.

Ethics:
Most people choose to live in the company of other people. We gather together in communities for many reasons. A community of people has many social, survival and economic advantages. If we want these advantages, we must restrict our Hedonism and avoid doing things that would otherwise make others push us out of their community. We must not interfere with others basic rights to pursue their own Hedonism.
Thus while living alone, we could have poisoned the worlds waters, living among the masses that we do, we must refrain from this type of activity. I will call these restraints Ethics. I will define Ethics to be logically derived restrictions on Hedonism. I will avoid the term Morals as it is often used to describe rules of conduct derived in other ways, for example because a deity has said so.

Ethical Hedonism:
An interesting symbol for this philosophy can be derived by superimposing a vertical line or "one" on top of and infinity symbol. The symbol can mean the balance between the Hedonistic life you could lead alone, balanced with the fact that we choose to live together in a growing limitless society. Thus a 1 and the figure eight infinity symbol combine to create the symbol for Ethical Hedonism.

A Treatise on the Lore of Gargoyles

by Norlick the Elder

Though gargoyles are considered by most to be mere legend, no records exist documenting the origins of the gargoyle "statues" that adorn many castles. Even the towering stone guardians of the Codex of Ultimate Wisdom have many of the physical characteristics of the "legendary" gargoyle. Nobody seems to know where they came from either. Despite the lack of hard evidence, there have been a fair number of unconfirmed reports of sightings of live gargoyles. It is the opinion of this author that daemons are a form of gargoyle. As many reliable encounters with daemons have been documented in various scholarly works, perhaps this is the best source of further information on the subject of gargoyles.

Alice in Wonderland

by Lewis Carroll

Alice saw a peculiar white rabbit one day. It was looking at its pocket watch and worrying about how late it was. Alice chased it down a rabbit hole, and fell a very long way. She found herself in a strange land. She went to a tea party there, with a mad hatter and a dormouse. She also met a strange caterpillar, and a cat that could vanish, with its grin dissappearing last. The queen of hearts yelled "Off with her head!" and her guards ran up to grab Alice - but then she awakened, and realized it had all been a dream.

Baldwin’s Big Book of Baking

Though some might scoff at the idea, the making of breads, pastries, pies and cakes is one of the highest callings in life. Study this book carefully, and someday you may be prepared to take on this awesome responsibility.

Bow Marksmanship

by Iolo Fitzowen

There is a zen to shooting well. Become one with your bow. Clear your mind of all thoughts save that of flying with the arrow to strike the target, and you will not miss.

Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang

by Ian Fleming

This wonderful childrens's story of a car that could fly has been pleasing youths and adults alike for many generations.

Collected Plays

by Raymundo

Housed inside this anthology of stage works are such greats as "Three on a Codpiece", "The Trials of the Avatar", "The Plagiarist", "Clue", "Thumbs Down" and several other prize-winning pieces. For convenience in production, several suggested costumes and make-up techniques are listed in the back.

Dilzal’s Almanac of Good Advice

Gambling is the surest way of getting nothing for something.
Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.
Never play backgammon with a centaur.

Encyclopedia Britannia Volume II. F - L.

Here is another volume in a long series of books detailing every known geographical location and historical personage. This work covers Faalga, the ancient sage of reptiles, through Lyceaum, the reknowned library that is now a part of Moonglow.

Encyclopedia Britannia Volume I. A - E.

Another volume in a long series of books detailing every known geographical location and historical personage. This work covers Aakara, the first mayor of Trinsic, through Exodus, the vile offspring of Mondain and Minax.

Encyclopedia Britannia Volume III. M - P.

Here is another volume in a long series of books detailing every known geographical location and historical personage. This tome covers Kanos, an historical tower in ancient Yew, through Pusmoran, the orginator of the rarely-used fourth person point of view.

Encyclopedia Britannia Volume IV. Q - U.

Here is another volume in a long series of books detailing every known geographical location and historical personage. This book covers Quaaxetlornicom, the mythilogical snow beast of the North, through, Utopia, the proposed manifestation of the time-honored concept of a perfect society.

Encyclopedia Britannia Volume V. V - Z.

Here is another volume in a long series of books detailing every known geographical location and historical personage. This tome covers Vargaz, contemporary storyteller and compiler of legendary parables, through Zyand, a prehistoric island.

Everything an Avatar Should Know About Sex

(all pages in this book are blank!)

Gargoyle Like Me

by Darok

Within this work lies a fascinating novel of a human who poses as a Gargoyle to view what life is like from the Gargish point of view. The story is a remarkable mix of historical and entertaining facts from encounters with many gargoyles. A particular emphasis of the work is the importance of the gargoyle family structure.

As there is no evidence of gargoyles having a gender, it is odd how close "father" gargoyles maintain a relationship with their (presumably) adopted sons. The attitudes seems similar to that of how the more intelligent, winged gargoyles treat the wingless. There is an air of condescension, but the feelings of care still exist, as if the wingless were children to be protected and watched over by the winged.

Gone with the Wisp

by Margareta Mitchellino

This novel, purportedly written by a young gypsy woman, depicts the golden days of Britannia. Filled with short anecdotes Mitchellino claims came from her people, the piece is quite amusing.

How Death Affects Those Who Work Around it Regularly

Day 1: Subject (Tiery) seems friendly enough and willing to accept my company.
Day 2: Subject exhibiting strange sense of humor, very morbid.
Day 3: No contact with subject.
Day 4: Subject makes continual references to recent conversations with cemetery occupants.
Day 5: ...

Karenna’s Pregnancy Workout

by Karenna

Herein are many words of wisdom for use within the realm of combat and exercise for pregnant women. The drawings included perfectly illustrate in explicit detail how these forms differ from more conventional styles, and how pregnancy truly affects fighting skills.

Karenna’s Total Body Workout

by Karenna

Found upon the pages of this combat and exercise training manual are words that expand upon the original edition. Sadly, this work has recieved much less attention than Karenna's other two.

Karenna’s Workout

by Karenna

Found within this plain-bound volume is a combat and exercise training manual. The work provides simple yet complete illustrations demonstrating a variety of steps that will not only disable an opponent, but also aids in good cardiovascular circulation.

Key to the Black Gate

The pages bound within this book contain well-documented clue information from the invaluable sources at Origin Systems.

Logbook of the Empire

This book appears to be the log of a ship called "The Empire." The last entry speaks of the burying of a great treasure, and of the growing discontent of the crew. There's a hastily scrawled note at the end, in different handwriting, that says "Captain Hawkins won't be makin' no more log entries."

Lord British

The biography of Britannia's longtime ruler
by K.Bennos

...While many may remember that Lord British was once but one of eight monarchs (back when the lands were known as Sosaria), few are aware that he is not even a native of our own lovely Britannia. His origin is from another world, one from which he entered ours by way of a red moongate (In fact, it is through this same type of gate that the Avatar of legend purportedly enters Britannia.) As ruler of one of the eight kingdoms, he was instrumental in selecting a champion to face Mondain, Minax, and Exodus. When the terrible machine, Exodus, was defeated, 'twas Lord British behind whom all the people of Sosaria rallied. The unified land become known as Britannia, with Lord British as the sole monarch. Though never let it be said he rules with a tyrannical hand. His reign has always been one of Truth, Love, and Courage, supported by his outmost belief in the eight virtues.

It was Lord British who had the insight to call forth a quest for the Avatar (whom also happened to be the champion from the days of Sosaria), and who gave prosperity and happiness unto the people.

Then came his mysterious disappearance, when the Stranger who became the Avatar was called by his companions to aid in the search for the lost monarch. Note how Lord Blackthorn, affected by the Shadowlords, quickly turned Britannia's fair lands into a place of terror. But find our noble Lord the Avatar did, and Britannia was restored its former, peaceful state.

Then came the gargoyles, and our honorable sovereign thoughtfully requested the return of the Avatar...

Morgan’s Guide to Unfinished Novels

by Morgan

An enlightening discourse on the enigma of blank tomes. Beginning with the heretofore unresolved mysteries of empty... (the rest of the book is blank)

Observations of Black Rock

by Rudyom The Mage

The mysterious substance known as Black Rock is completely indestructible. Only by magical means can it be molded and shaped. Black Rock can be found in small quantities beneath the ground, sometimes near lodes of iron ore or lead. Black Rock can be excavated by conventional means, but melting it down into a malleable substance is impossible, except by magic. I have found that a combination of electrical energy and magnetic energy has a profound effect upon the substance. Together, these properties cause Black Rock to become permeable, that is, one can put one's hand through the substance as if it were water!

Further study reveals that Black Rock might work as a teleportation device if magic, electrical energy, magnetic energy, and the correct alignment of heavenly bodies act together upon the substance. This theory still needs to be tested. The Black Rock transmuter I created out of an old wand does not work. It was meant to shoot electrical and magnetic charges into Black Rock, but all it does is make the substance explode! (I must be careful not to let the transmuter get into the wrong hands. Pointing it at a large quantity of Black Rock might produce a devastating explosion!)

I must quit for the day. The headaches that have been plaguing me have gotten worse. I am forgetting more and more. Very soon, I am afraid, I will forget how to cast simple spells. I believe something might be affecting the magical ether. But I cannot be sure...

On Dreams and Visions

Some say that in our dreams our astral selves journey to other realms of existence. Others say that imps and daemons create dreams to disturb our sleep. Now let the truth be known! Dreams are messages from the spirit world. Someday we will learn to decipher them, and benefit greatly thereby.

---

Transcripts and In-Game Text
Complete Transcripts	Ultima III ☥ Ultima IV (by subject) ☥ Ultima V ☥ Ultima VI ☥ Savage Empire ☥ Martian Dreams ☥ Ultima IX
Ports	Ultima III (NES) ☥ Ultima III (FM Towns) ☥ Ultima VII (SNES)
Other	Ultima VI voice ☥ Ultima VI signs/scrolls/books ☥ Martian Dreams books ☥ Ultima VII books Ultima VII signs/scrolls/plaques ☥ Serpent Isle books ☥ Ultima VIII books ☥ Ultima IX books