46

From beneath the coating of moss which sheathes these vines emerge hundreds of tiny hollow barbs, transforming them instantly into deadly foes capable of ripping you to shreds. They whip the air within inches of your face, forcing you to frantically dodge and dive to avoid being torn open. You draw your weapon and strike out, cleaving through the end of one of these deadly creepers which emits a high-pitched squeal as it recoils, trailing a spray of sticky green slime from its sundered tip. As if enraged by their companion’s cry of pain, the remaining vines snake towards you with increased tenacity. You must fight them.

Illustration III—The deadly vines whip the air, inches from your face.

Haemodyls: COMBAT SKILL 49 ENDURANCE 42

These vine-creatures are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-blast and Kai-ray. If you possess Animal Mastery, you may add 2 to your COMBAT SKILL for the duration of this fight.

If you win the combat, turn to 19.