so I am in hammerlorne.

got past the nasty stalks, and find myself against ethereal opponents.

no arrows work. I have no offensive spells. I have been using minor magics like predator sight.

I am thinking I have to go to save BEFORE entering hammerlorne and go buy offensive spells? what other option do I have (literally no points in melee).

dang it.

Well, the thing about BW's games is that eventually all resources are called into play. While being a specialist is necessary, so is having offensive, defensive and magic skills. Without going into details, you obviously are in a world of hurt.

I was in a similar position once in Book I - and can only say I was a stronger person when I emerged from the other side. It isn't fun to have to back up because your character is toast.....

I lucked out. I had a scroll of fire dart so I learned it. and I had to run around to regen mana but I got em all!

Ethereal need a magical bonus damage like a ring or amulet that adds damage or soul piercing arrows. I don't think damage pluses on the bow count.

I believe any damage bonus counts. Just having a Bloodthirsty Ring on (or whatever it's called, brain in need of coffee) allows you to damage them.

One of the great things of playing a mage. Vinhalu and Westwillow bow before the might of Turn Undead.