### 91

You are within ten feet of the steps when a leathery black dog appears from a shadowy alcove and moves to block your path. It growls at you menacingly and fixes you with its baleful eyes. At once you recognize that this dog is a young Akataz, a vicious breed of Drakkarim warhound.

If you possess Animal Mastery and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Master Superior or higher, turn to 348.

If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, turn to 173.