[Eagle eye]

I see you have become acquainted with the salads. I think everyone's first meeting with them ends in a similar way - don't be deterred. I'm not completely sure, but I think I managed to leave the salad confrontation until after I had already passed through Shurugeon Castle, which made the battle much easier. Beforehand, however, I did a lot of running away. Be sure if you do choose to run from them, that you don't lead them towards the gates of Ishad N'ha ha or you will not be enjoying the game for much longer. I didn't - I ended up having to revert to a much older game.