### 153

Maouk orders his black-clad troops to search the area, threatening them with death if they allow you to escape. You bite your lip and wait for a chance to run.

Creeping from one boat to the next, you reach a narrow flight of stone steps. At the top of the steps, beyond a small paved square, lies a maze of crooked alleyways that disappear into the shadows of the Thieves' Quarter. You are less than twenty feet from safety when a cry echoes across the water: 'There he is!'

You sprint along the deserted passage and climb a stairway into an open courtyard. The sound of hooves clattering on the cobblestones below urges you onwards. There are three possible exits from the courtyard: a high, nail-studded gate to the left; an alley to your right; and a straight, paved pathway that leads to an arch. You must make a quick decision for Maouk's men are close at your heels.

If you possess the Kai Discipline of Tracking, turn to 42.

If you wish to enter the gate, turn to 75.

If you wish to enter the alley, turn to 117.

If you decide to take the straight pathway through the arch, turn to 169.

Text copyright © 1985 Joe Dever.
Illustrations copyright © 1985 Gary Chalk.