275

Your brave attempt to disengage the lock proves unsuccessful and so you decide on a different course of action. You and Karvas agree that you will try to attack and overpower the gaolers at the first opportunity. Patiently you bide your time until an hour later, when you hear footsteps in the corridor outside followed by the sound of the tumbler lock spinning. The door creaks open and in strides the Knight Bachelor, accompanied by an escort of six armed guards. The knight is holding a short-bladed sword in one hand, and a wooden bowl filled with vile-smelling gruel in the other. He offers the bowl to Prince Karvas at arm’s length.

‘Welcome to your royal apartment,’ he says, in a sneering tone. ‘I’ve had the cook prepare you some food after your long journey home, Prince Karvas. I do hope you enjoy it. It’s a meal fit for a king who will never be.’

Karvas is angered by the knight’s insolence and he slaps the bowl of gruel out of his hand. The arrogant knight laughs, but before he can step away and leave the cell, you spring forward like a pouncing tiger and attempt to grab the sword from his hand.

‘Slay him!’ screeches the knight, as he struggles to free himself. Instantly the guards rush at you with their weapons raised in eager readiness to carry out his order.

Knight Bachelor & Citadel Gaolers (6): COMBAT SKILL 43   ENDURANCE 38

Prince Karvas is unarmed and unable to assist you during this combat. If you win this fight, turn to 39.