58

Standing beside the President’s chair is a solid marble plinth with a bronze beacon—the Anarian symbol of law and order—fixed to the top. The President moves his hand to the padded arm of his chair and presses a button. All eyes are on the beacon. There is a flash of ignition and a jet of green flame roars upwards towards the domed ceiling.

‘The Senate votes to aid your quest, Lone Wolf,’ says Senator Zilaris. ‘Come, we will escort you to the Square of the Dragons and make preparation for the Cauldron to be opened.’

The assembly is dissolved and the state coaches are summoned to take you and all the senators to the Tahou Cauldron. You share a carriage with the President, Senator Zilaris, and Senator Chil, who is anxious to apologize for opposing the majority vote. ‘I trust you will forgive me, Lone Wolf,’ he says, unctuously. ‘I merely proposed what I thought was best for my country, but I now realize I was wrong.’ You nod benignly, in the hope that he will cease his fawning. He smiles and turns to the President. ‘Sir, I feel I must make amends for my misguided action in the Senate. If Lone Wolf is to enter the Cauldron tonight, surely it is our duty to ensure that he is adequately equipped. I propose that we visit one of my warehouses, where he is free to take anything he requires.’

The President agrees and the carriage is redirected to a warehouse near the Square of the Dragons. Senator Chil has many business interests in the city, and he supplies much of the weaponry and armour that equips the army. His warehouse is full of supplies, and you are encouraged to take whatever you need. From the vast stores you select the following:

• Rope
• Short Sword
• Blanket
• Mace
• Bow
• Flask of Water
• 6 Arrows
• Quiver
• Broadsword
• Lantern⁵
• Dagger

If you wish to keep any of the above items, remember to adjust your Action Chart accordingly.

Turn to 124.