Question about a Follower Card (Familiar) - need to resolve dispute

[Toadstool 0]

First things first, I haven't played Talisman in over 20 years! I played the 2nd edition back in the 80s quite a bit with my family and friends. We a few of the  expansions, too. It was such a great game that when I saw the 4th revised edition at a Barnes and Noble I just HAD to buy it and play it. I also orded some of the expansions but only Reaper and The Dungeon have arrived so far.

As for the question, my wife and I tried playing the game for the first time last night. When I drew the following card, we didn't agree on the meaning of it:

• Familiar : Follower : The Familiar will become your Follower if you lose 1 life. | Add 2 to your Craft. | Whenever you draw a Spell that you do not wish to keep, you may discard it and draw another one to replace it, which you mus keep.

My take on this card was:

• I can CHOOSE to give up a life and then keep the card as a follower.

My wife's take on the card was:

• I only get the card if I lose a life INVOLUNTARILY. Meaning, the next time I lose a life in a battle/psychic combat, I would then get the card.

My wife argues that wording does not indicate that I can elect to sacrifice a life to get the card.

Who is right in this case?

Thanks!

[EvilEdwin 0]

It's quite simply really. If you want to take the Familiar as a Follower, you immediately lose a life as payment. It's exactly the same as giving the Mercenary a gold for him to become your Follower, except this time the cost is a life.

I'm afraid in this instance your wife's interpretation was wrong.

[Toadstool 0]

Thanks for the answer!! Much appreciated.

[Toothless_Night_Fury 103]

Yes indeed. Your wife must obey you in this instance! lol

Welcome to the forums.

Ell.