<p>It is shortly before dusk when <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> approaches its destination. This is a shallow valley at the northwestern edge of the Shezar Hills, close to its border with the petrified forest of Helkona. You heed the lookout<ch.apos/>s cry and go up on deck to observe the sullen landscape from the port rail. Meanwhile, Banedon takes command of the ship<ch.apos/>s helm in readiness for a landing. As the craft descends, you survey the surrounding deadlands with trepidation. To the west, beyond the barren hilltops, a dull orangey light glows amidst the dust-choked clouds, proclaiming the hour of sunset. There is a strong sulphurous smell, and the distant hiss and rumble of active volcanoes lend further menace to this bleak, inhospitable landscape.</p>
<p>Banedon brings <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> gently to earth where it settles into the smooth, dusty soil. As his crewmen busy themselves securing its anchorage, he helps you to disembark.</p>
<p><quote>Godspeed and good fortune, Grand Master,</quote> he says, as you get ready to descend to the ground by ladder. <quote>I shall await Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s signal with optimism. Remember, when you have freed your master, he must speak to me telepathically. Only when I have received his mental command shall I approach Gazad Helkona. I will bring <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> into the centre of the city-fortress and look for your signal. May Ishir protect you both.</quote></p>
<p>It is shortly before dusk when <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> approaches its destination. This is a shallow valley at the northwestern edge of the Shezar Hills, close to its border with the petrified forest of Helkona. You heed the lookout<ch.apos/>s cry and go up on deck to observe the sullen landscape from the port rail. Meanwhile, Banedon takes command of the ship<ch.apos/>s helm in readiness for a landing. As the craft descends, you survey the surrounding deadlands with trepidation. To the west, beyond the barren hilltops, a dull orangey light glows amidst the dust-choked clouds, proclaiming the hour of sunset. There is a strong sulphurous smell, and the distant hiss and rumble of active volcanoes lend further menace to this bleak, inhospitable landscape.</p>
<p>Banedon brings <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> gently to earth where it settles into the smooth, dusty soil. As his crewmen busy themselves securing its anchorage, he helps you to disembark.</p>
<p><quote>Godspeed and good fortune, Grand Master,</quote> he says, as you get ready to descend to the ground by ladder. <quote>I shall await Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s signal with optimism. Remember, when you have freed your master, he must speak to me telepathically. Only when I have received his mental command shall I approach Gazad Helkona. I will bring <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> into the centre of the city-fortress and look for your signal. May Ishir protect you both.</quote></p>