### 190

The howling makes the guard nervous--he shuffles uneasily and holds his iron stave defensively, as if expecting an attack at any moment. Yet, despite his alertness, he does not see you approaching until the very last moment, by which time it is too late to avoid your first blow. You deal him a grievous wound to the neck which sends him reeling, yet he recovers quickly and comes staggering towards you, his stave now ablaze with blue fire.

If possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, turn to 208.

If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to unsheathe it, turn to 289.

Text copyright © 1988 Joe Dever.
Illustrations copyright © 1988 Brian Williams.