### 275

You remove your hand from the Sommerswerd and draw another weapon just in time to fend off the creature’s initial attack. A flash of lightning briefly illuminates the cave and, for the first time, you see this mysterious beast: the sight is chilling to behold. Its mouth is a mass of twisted fangs and from its huge, bear-like body there writhes a score of slimy tentacles, each tipped with a venomous claw. Its reptilian head is domed and from its centre there protrudes a twisted horn, longer than a broadsword.

The creature retreats a few paces and howls with anger as it prepares to make its second attack.

Ixian Mhagani: COMBAT SKILL 40 ENDURANCE 60

You may evade combat with this undead creature at any time after the fourth round by turning to 56.

If you win the fight, turn to 16.