### 81

The instant you step through the archway you feel an electrifying jolt run through your body, and a writhing snake of blue-white energy arcs from the rim of the arch to the hilt of the sword Helshezag. A gasp of astonishment arises from the acolytes, audible even above the howling wind.

'We have an intruder in our midst,' screams Cadak, levelling his wizard's staff at you accusingly. You fight the paralysing effect of the current and tug the sword free of its scabbard. For a moment the current weakens as it is absorbed and neutralized by the dark energy of Helshezag, but then the tip of Cadak's staff ignites with a crimson flame and the current intensifies anew, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.

Turn to 228.

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