"01 - Odyssey" - читать интересную книгу автора (McGough Scott)

lugged a crossbeam to brace the gate when it closed for the

night. The road lead directly into town with only a portcullis to

bar the way. The wall was only twelve feet high and the guards

served more to collect tolls than defend the city.

"Why have you come to the pits of the Cabal?" intoned a guard

who drew away from the gate as if to duck behind the wall.

"I have come into my own," Kamahl said absently, looking to

the city beyond. The guard was confused and unconsciously gave

way as the massive barbarian came closer. The fighter drew his

attention to the minor servant before him. "I will compete in the

tourney. Where would I find the Master of the Games?"

The guard blinked at the bald statement but regarding the

warrior seemed uncertain how to respond. Shouting broke out on

the road behind him, and he turned from the barbarian to the

commotion. There were several wagons backed up the causeway

leading down to the pit. Kamahl could see soldiers gathered in a

clump in front of the waiting vehicles.

"As you can see, the road is backed up due to a wreck." The

guard said, drawing a little confidence from the sight of his

fellows so far away. "The elevator cable snapped and killed a

mule." Kamahl just strode forward, ignoring the guard's

outstretched arm.

"No profit from crazy men anyway," the soldier muttered as he

stepped away from the barbarian.

The road's decline prevented horses hauling fully loaded