338

This narrow lane is flanked by hovels and makeshift shelters for the poor of the city. Beggars assail you from all sides, pleading for money with outstretched hands, but there are so many of them that you quickly abandon the idea of making a donation.

At length, the lane opens into a rubbish-strewn square faced by a shadowy, unsigned building. As you draw nearer, its grey door creaks open and a curly-haired youth beckons you to approach.

‘Welcome, stranger,’ he says, in a syrupy voice. ‘You look lost. Why don’t you rest here a while. I’m sure I can help you find your way.’

If you possess Kai-alchemy, turn to 2.

If you do not possess this Discipline, turn to 155.