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As politely as you can, in the face of your obvious horror at the provender laid before you, you refuse. The deranged king’s face contorts with fury. ‘You dare to insult the Imperial Court of Gyanima!’ he roars. At once the assembled nobles turn into a snarling mob.

‘Guards!’ The guards of the king, armed with javelins, enter the banqueting room. Their aim is deadly and true. Before you have had the opportunity to defend yourself, your heart is impaled upon a steel point.

Your life and your quest end here.