Page 40

Deke's from around here, you reason, and Merlyn's just visiting. He probably knows his way around this place.

"Let's try the western route," you decide.

"Yeah, good choice!" Deke pumps a fist in the air.

Merlyn shrugs. "I guess I can't win 'em all," she says, and starts down the western path after the two of you. "I just hope this path is safe," she continues. "Remember what Sharalinda said about manifestations of Vulkaro's fury. I believe this path dissolves pretty quickly into wilderness." You shudder and hope not to encounter any monsters.

"They both do," Deke answers knowingly. "And don�t worry about monsters. "Anyone comes near us and I'll pound 'em with my fumball! I got the best arm Gundal's seen in years!"

You notice Merlyn roll her eyes, but she says nothing.

"Hey Merlyn," Deke continues, "What else can you do? With your magic I mean? Besides cure headaches and all?"

"Lots of things!" Merlyn says brightly, but then looks down and confesses, "Well, actually not that many yet. I can do a basic spell calling on the power of each of the four gods. A windspell from Zephiro, a waterspell from Kuaro, a firespell from Vulkaro (though I'm a bit uncertain about using that one now), and the healing spell is from Kalyro."

"Why don't you want to use the firespell?" Deke frowns.

"Well, with Vulkaro becoming a demon and all...its spells can take on strange effects. I don't know how well I'd be able to control a firespell right now. It might hurt people whom I don't intend it to."

"Ah," Deke agrees. "Okay, let's stay away from firespells."

"Sharalinda says those four spells are all she'll teach me for now," Merlyn says. "But she's promised to teach me more when I'm ready."

"Um, guys?" you speak up. "I think something's crawling around in those bushes over there."

Deke and Merlyn look to where you are pointing.

"It's a fireshrew," Merlyn says, "A minion of Vulkaro. I can see its nose poking out."

"Let's go get it!" shouts Deke.

If you want to fight the creature in the bushes: give up 5 courage points, and turn to page 46.
If you have less than 5 courage points or don't want to fight, turn to page 29.