### 154

Despite your precautions, your cloak suddenly bursts into flames and you are forced to retreat from the edge of the fissure before you can put them out. You quickly smother the flames and suffer no injuries, but you are convinced that it is impossible for you to gain entry to the fortress by this route. Reluctantly, you return across the killing zone to the edge of the petrified forest.

You are feeling disheartened by your unsuccessful attempt to enter the fortress, but you do not allow your disappointment to weaken your determination to complete your vital mission. After resting for a few minutes, you resolve to enter Gazad Helkona by other means.

Before you make your second attempt to enter Xaol’s stronghold, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 ENDURANCE points (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery).

To continue, turn to 62.