### 103

You lower yourself carefully into the hollow stem and soon discover that it drops away very steeply. It is a vertical tube for most of its length, yet you are able to slow your rate of descent by grabbing hold of tiny tendrils which protrude from the lining of the stem wall. As you get nearer to its base, the stem wall becomes semi-transparent and slick with moisture. You press your face to this warm surface, and you are able to discern other stems. They look like the trunks of trees in a dense green forest. Then you look down to see that the stem of this plant is descending into darkness. The darkness begins at the point where the stem passes below ground level. You decide to stop at this point, for you have no desire to explore the roots of this strange flower.

Carefully you examine the fabric of the semi-transparent stem. If you can force your way through this tough plant wall, you will be able to escape from your prison-like tube.

If you possess a bladed Weapon or a bladed Special Item, turn to 332.

If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, turn to 279.

If you possess Magi-magic and wish to use it, turn to 57.

If you possess none of the above or choose not to use them, turn to 4.