### 293

The journey downstream is swift and easy. The icy river cuts a direct path across the frozen plain before it wends its way through an expanse of low, rolling hills, blackened and scarred by war. Ruined hovels smoulder on the horizon and scores of snow-covered corpses, human and otherwise, lie where they died in a running battle that has swept like wildfire across this land.

Shortly after midday, you see something in the distance that sets your nerves on edge. It is a group of figures, huddled together on the river bank. You magnify your vision and identify them to be Drakkarim, possibly deserters from Magnaarn's army, who are attempting to catch fish from the river.

If you wish to hide in the bottom of the boat and allow the current to carry you past them, turn to 108.

If you choose to row with the current, so that you will pass by these enemy soldiers as quickly as possible, turn to 69.

Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.
Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.