### 74

You do not have to wait very long for the riders to appear. As soon as they think you have gone, they emerge in single file from the back of a derelict cottage and draw themselves into a circle in the middle of the village. Although they are out of earshot, you can tell by their frantic movements and gestures that they are having a heated argument. Suddenly, they break the circle and ride towards you. Cyrilus, still lying unconscious across his horse, is in tow behind the last rider.

If you have a bow and want to ambush them as they ride past your hiding place, turn to 20.

If you wish to attack the last rider and try to recapture Cyrilus, turn to 203.

If you wish to let them pass and then follow them, turn to 227.

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