### 220

You hear a gruff shout followed by the sound of heavy boots pounding up the stone stairs. Your stomach churns with the fear that the Drakkarim are about to storm the observatory platform, and again you risk your life by glancing over the parapet. Fortunately, this time you escape being used as a crossbow target, and you are able to catch a glimpse of a lone Drakkar ascending the stairs at a run. He is a barrel-chested Drakkarim assault-trooper clad in full battle-armour, with scarlet cape, plumed helm, and spiked shield. As he bounds up the steps two at a time, he curses loudly and slashes at the air with his serrated sword. His fearless charge is so recklessly courageous that it inspires his cautious comrades to leave the landing and follow in his wake.

If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, turn to 198.

If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, turn to 291.

If you possess Magi-magic and wish to use it, turn to 117.

If you do not possess a Bow, nor either of these Disciplines, or if you choose not to use any of them, turn instead to 16.