### 281

A one-eyed mongrel is standing in front of the inn, its head cocked defiantly at the first-floor window through which you are observing the Vakovarians.

Mentally you command it to cease its infernal yapping and it responds by running away along the street, whimpering pathetically, as if it has just seen a ghost.

Most of the bandit activity appears to be going on around the quay. In order to get a better view, you leave the inn and make your way down through the ruins towards the lake, taking care to avoid those Vakovarians who are out looting. The burnt-out shell of a meeting hall offers you an unobstructed view of the quay and its flagstoned square. You hide here, invisible among the charred roof timbers, and watch as a curious scene unfolds on the quayside.

Turn to 163.