Section 151 A Cleft Stick You stand at the threshold of a wide staircase that descends into darkness. For a moment you consider the black, gaping maw and wonder at what you might find below. Before you take that first step however, you see a small stick protruding from the ground near the staircase's right balustrade. In a hastily made cleft in its upper end you see also a tattered piece of parchment. Carefully you look around and wonder if this might be some type of trap, but curiosity gets the better of you and you snatch the message from its hold. To your surprise it is a warning, and it is one of your brethren who has penned it. "Greetings Brother. I do not know your purpose here, but I write with the earnest desire that you be spared at least one of the dangers that reside below. The second level of Traebor holds many perils, the greatest of which can be found if you try and make for the third level without a talisman in your possession. Ensure that you have one of the Sharyah in your hand when you make for the steps. If you do not it will go badly for you." You read the note again and wonder at what it means, but you will take notice of it. Carefully you replace the parchment in its cleft and take to the stairs. The second level of Traebor awaits. Options: The second level of Traebor can be found below but you must make preparations before you can descend. The map you have made of the first level is no longer of use to you and in its place you must prepare another that can be used in this darker, and more dangerous region of the Temple. For players using pen and paper a new sheet of paper will suffice. For those using a spreadsheet a new page will be required. To continue on however. requires also a new torch or the possession of a Light stone. If you have no torches or Sharyah'ka, turn to section 187. If you do have illumination to continue turn to section 102 and discover what the second level has in store. Goodluck. The Torchlight Text Edition is the intellectual property of the author, Wayne F Densley, and all rights are reserved by him. Any questions regarding this title, or any other book in the Chronicles of Arborell series can be answered by emailing the author at densleyw@shoal.net.au