323

You follow Gwynian through a series of corridors to a stable from where he brings forth a magnificent white stallion, the finest steed you have ever seen.

‘This is Wildwind, Grand Master,’ says Gwynian, as he strokes the steed’s muscular neck. ‘He will carry you to Casiorn far swifter than any horse you have known. Swifter than even your own fine steed, Storm.’

You look into Wildwind’s intelligent eyes and you detect the faint aura of magic about him. But it is not until you climb into the saddle that you sense his true power.

‘A thousand thanks, Gwynian. I am forever in your debt.’

And with these words you bid Gwynian farewell and leave the Halls of Learning. You depart from Varetta through its great east gate and, once outside the city, you spur Wildwind to the gallop. You are astounded by his speed and untiring stamina: Gwynian was right—he is the fastest horse you have ever ridden. In little more than an hour you have covered sixty miles. It is only when you find yourself approaching a stone bridge, commanded by a huge gated archway, that you are forced to rein him to a halt. Above the archway you notice the words ‘Denka Gate’ engraved into the stone. Below them, written in chalk, is the message ‘Toll—4 Gold Crowns’.

After a few minutes, an unshaven old man emerges from a door set into this grand gate. He holds out his hand and demands that you pay him the toll.

If you wish to pay the gateman his toll of 4 Gold Crowns, turn to 74.

If you cannot pay, or if you do not wish to, turn to 331.