Zhar the Mad

Zhar the Mad is a quest boss found in a library section of level 8 of the catacombs. He gives a demented little speech, but will leave you alone unless you provoke him, at which point he attacks with fireballs. He is the first sighting a player has of the mage type monster, who are not otherwise seen prior to level 13.

There is also information available at D1 NPCs.

Zhar the Mad

• Quest Name: Zhar the Mad
• Triggered By: Speaking to Zhar the Mad.
• Frequency: Single player only, in 2/3 of games.
• Given by: Zhar the Mad.
• Location: One of the library rooms on Dungeon Level 8.
• Reward: Random spellbook, medium level or higher.

Zhar the Mad is a boss version of the advocates, the fireball shooting mages found on level 16 (and 15, in the person of Lazarus and his attendants.) He is found in one of the library rooms on level 8 in the catacombs, and appears to be studying peacefully. He will not attack the player unless provoked.

When first clicked on, Zhar speaks in a crazy voice. "All these interruptions are enough to drive one mad!" He still does not attack, though he'll turn to watch the player as you move around the room. He waits to attack until you click on the bookshelf beside him, at which point he mutters, "Your curiosity will be the death of you." and attacks with fireballs. He can also use Flash at melee range, and teleport as well.

Strategy Tips

Zhar's fireballs are far lower level than those of the Advocates found later in the game, he doesn't have much defense or many hit points, and in the enclosed area of the library, he's not too much of a challenge for most characters. He drops a book when he dies, which makes this quest worth at least two books, plus whatever scrolls and books fall from the random bookstands around the room.

Quest Dialogues

Others

Zhar the Mad

Activation

What?! Why are you here? All these interruptions are enough to make one insane. *laughs* Here, take this and leave me to my work. Trouble me no more!

Return

Arrrrgh! Your curiosity will be the death of you!!! *laughs*

Completion

Player

I'm sorry, did I break your concentration?