### 69

As you strike your final crushing blow, the portal suddenly unleashes an explosion of hissing sparks. Quickly you turn your face away and save yourself from being caught by its searing flash.

Your destruction of the trapdoor has triggered a booby trap that was placed here by a sorcerer, hundreds of years ago, to protect the portal. Although you are momentarily blinded by the explosion, your swift reflexes and your innate healing skills spare you any permanent damage.

To continue, turn to 265.