179

All manner of strange and exotic plants, oils, potions, and medicaments fill the shop windows, and the smell of the herb-filled street is intoxicating. There is a sudden bustle of activity at the end of the street. The crowd disperses, melting into the shops as if into thin air. A man stands before you, his face is streaked with sweat, his turquoise robes torn and heavily stained. It is Maouk—he has survived the Baga-darooz.

‘Were it not for the Zakhan, I would kill you here and now,’ hisses Maouk, his face a mask of hate. ‘But I will not lose my head for a cowardly Sommlending.’

His insult enrages you, but you control your anger. You sense he is not alone; eyes are watching you at every window.

If you wish to attack Maouk, turn to 197.

If you wish to turn and run back along the street, turn to 92.