PANEL ONE: The champion leans down to speak to Xaga; Maiz sits behind him. CHAMPION: I hope we can get to the Crypt of Irchalos before DeVallon manages to find me again. I'm kind of surprised he hasn't already. XAGA: Oh, you don't have to worry about that. PANEL TWO: Front angle on the champion and Xaga. CHAMPION: Hm? What do you mean? XAGA: I've been maintaining a magical ward that prevents him from coming near us. It's a temporary measure, but it'll keep him at bay till we reach our destination. PANEL THREE: Close on the champion. CHAMPION: Heh...DeVallon's probably been spending the last few weeks doing nothing but trying to find a way to bypass the ward and get to me... PANEL FOUR: In the distance, a group of naked woman stand in a circle. In the foreground, DeVallon watches them from behind a tree. WOMAN: And now, here on the Women's Mount where no mortal male may tread, we shall conduct our ceremonies... DEVALLON (thinking): I've always wanted to see this...