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Elcroon followed, with sword in one hand, using light from the lantern Bishop was carrying to see.

Black Dog continues to advance ahead of you, tense as if ready to spring on something. But there's nothing in the passage, which leads to the top of a flight of steep and narrow downward steps.

There's a vague lizardy odor from the steps, which must be overpowering for Black Dog, who braces rigidly at the top in a posture that won't let you easily pass her. She is glaring down the steps into the darkness.

(To all) Another cockatrice...? Down those stairs. Let's get rid of it and come back up. (To Black Dog) Careful, faithful friend. Grip by the neck and give it a good shake. He looks the dog in the eye and says, Alright then, I'll make the noise for it. But let Bishop's Stickman go first. Go whenever you're ready, and we'll be right behind you, friend.

The vagabond minstrel winks a sign to Bishop and Elcroon and says aloud, Bloddy nice weather down here, isn't it? Like a fine June day in the mornin'. He eye signs to Bishop asking the traveler of gods and spirits worlds to send his magic animated man of sticks to descend the stairs ahead of Black Dog.

Bishop orders the wooden effigy to continue advancing forward.