>TM 4
>LS 2
>PS ON
>PL58
>SM6
>CP ON
>FO OFF
>------L-----------------------!---------------------------R
		ä273ä      

	You approach the gates of Hikas just as the last rays 
Š	of sunlight are dipping below the western horizon. 
Š	Bathed in the sun's afterglow this ancient city-port 
	looks warmly inviting, and you cast your eye 
Š	appraisingly across the stone geometry of its 
Š	protective wall, its conical towers, and its 
Š	pyramidal dwellings. Every surface is embellished 
Š	with runic symbols yet few remain legible for 
Š	thousands of years have elapsed since they were 
Š	carved.

	The Vakeros at the east gate recognize your Kai tunic 
Š	and offer you a guarded welcome. They warn you that a 
Š	curfew is in force and tell you to be off the streets 
Š	by dark. You pass through the gate and follow a long 
Š	shadowy street that descends towards the wharfs and 
Š	taverns that line the banks of the Carcos River - a 
Š	murky, silt-rich channel which divides the city in 
Š	two. Mindful of the imminent curfew, you tether your 
Š	horse to a rail and enter the nearest tavern in 
Š	search of a room for the night. Inside the air is hot 
Š	and stale. A small number of men and women of mixed 
Š	nationality stand at the counter and sit at small 
Š	tables. Their low-voiced conversations break off as 
Š	you let the tavern door shut behind you with a bang.


	If you wish to take a seat at a table, turn to  â245â

	If you wish to approach the counter, turn to  â161â