### 210

The cannon’s shell hits the portcullis and explodes, tearing a great hole in the timbers. Smouldering fragments of the gate are scattered widely about the hall, and they set off a chain-reaction of smaller explosions when they settle on powder kegs and jars of inflammable liquids.

The enemy are thrown into a state of confusion and you seize upon the chance to make good your escape. You run to the portcullis and dive head-first through the ragged hole. With the Agarashi commander’s cries of anger and frustration ringing in your ears, you scramble to your feet and hurry down a stone ramp that leads to the level below.

Turn to 300.