### 253

Swiftly you take aim and fire, but the creature escapes with just a graze across its dog-like forehead. Screaming with fury, it hurtles along the walkway and throws itself, clawing and snapping, at your face. You drop your bow and unsheathe a weapon just in time to receive its attack.

Dhax: COMBAT SKILL 20 ENDURANCE 26

You may evade combat at any time by running into the archway opposite; turn to 277.

If you win the combat, turn to 141.

Text copyright © 1986 Joe Dever.
Illustrations copyright © 1986 Gary Chalk.