The Resistance against the Old Powers in Osskil

A Wizard of Earthsea

Ged's struggle against the temptation and attacks of the Old Power trapped in the Terrenon stone.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The Temptation of the StoneThe Temptation of the Stone
The Lure of Power Serret's Offer Serret and Benderesk tried to persuade Ged to use the Terrenon stone, an Old Power that could answer any question. They offered him the shadow's name and unlimited power. Ged's Resistance Ged felt the cold evil of the stone and refused. He said the Old Powers are not for men to use. He resisted the temptation, though it was difficult.
The Attack of the Stone's ServantsThe Attack of the Stone's Servants
The Old Powers Unleashed The Black Creatures When Ged and Serret fled, the Stone sent black flying creatures, botched beasts from ages before, to attack them. They were deadly and relentless. The Escape Ged transformed into a hawk and fought them off. He escaped, but Serret was killed. The Old Powers could not cross the sea, so Ged was safe once he flew over the water.
The Lesson LearnedThe Lesson Learned
The Danger of Old Powers The Wisdom of Refusal Ged knew that if he had touched the Stone, he would have been enslaved. His resistance was a crucial test of his integrity. He realized that true power comes from within, not from external sources. The Shadow of the Stone The experience in Osskil made him more determined to face the shadow on his own terms. He had rejected a shortcut, and that choice strengthened him.
during Ged's stay at the Court of the Terrenon
during the escape from the Court
after the escape, reflected on later