Chapter 17 The Great Hall of the Ancients
Copyright © 2002 by the players of Emerald Sphere of Sighs.

From: Game Master [2002-05-23 14:10:58]
Subject: In Ya Go
While Dlarumei and Shih speak quietly to one another, the party files in through the carved wooden doors, through the black and red inscribed walls of the antechamber, down three long slate stairs covered with centuries of dust and out into a magnificent chamber.

The ceiling is tall with large pillars pushing the carved stone up almost out of sight. All the walls in the hall are of living rock, carved and polished to a fine luster and inlayed with beautiful stones of varying colors. Intricate patterns and ornate relief work adorn almost every vertical surface and the floor is made up multicolored slate tiles that create patterns which run throughout its surface. The hall is rectangular in shape 150meters long by 70meters wide with four alcove style antechamber on each of the long sides. The far end wall has four dark wooden doors, each separated by statue of some, noble looking person. They are in good repair for their supposed age and each had an ornate metal light holder above it. At the end nearest to you are placed three large, throne-like, chairs that are elevated from the main floor to the height of the knees of a normal sized man.

Behind these hangs a tattered and faded tapestry with a scene depicted upon it that is impossible to make out. Time has not been as kind to this particular item. The bottom third of the tapestry having crumbled away with age has revealed two silver boxes that are attached to the floor. Between the thrones and these boxes sits a small stone counter, plane and smooth stone on your side. But on the other side there are small buttons and lights, none of which seem to functions any longer. On each side of the silver boxes a slit with red and green lights that twinkle back and forth has been created toward the top. Their luminescence seems as strong today as you imagine it being centuries ago.

In the very center of the room is a table arrangement where 10 large wooden tables with stone tops create another rectangle. There are small passageways between the tables to allow access to the interior of the rectangle, possibly for serving personnel or entertainers you surmise. There are still a few chairs left standing around the table, many of them are broken or in major disrepair.

There is a large amount of dust covering everything, and in fact the path that Shih and his porters took across the room is clearly defined. Only the other antechamber, diagonally opposite from the one you just came in through has a door. The rest have small oval shaped tables in their centers and carved story type depictions on their walls.

The room is lit well by your meager torches, the very nature of this room reflects and amplifies your light to fill the entire room with a warm, golden glow. The party settles into a space between the rectangle of tables and the three thrones.

ooc[picture in the archives soon]

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-05-24 17:42:40]
Subject: Palmists
After a brief period, Dlarumei and Shih come down the stairs to join the rest of the group.

"My friends, the devices of the ancients that you see behind the tapestry control the illusory barriers through which we passed. We must be careful not to disturb them as this room can provide a safe haven if we are pursued when nearby.

We are deep within the Tsuru'um under The City of Sarku. Above us, our most holy Festival of the Dead is underway. The Tsuru'um is more alive with undead that at any time of the year!" *private chuckle*

Shih walks over to one of the large bundles near his slaves and withdraws a dark robe covered with white symbols depicting the many aspects of Sarku.

"Noble ones, though I dislike suggesting it, please don these robes. I am your guide to the tubeway and willing party member to accomplish our quest. My mission is as secret as your own. I would have to accept the final death before disclosing the nature of it or failing to support you all. Please respect my life as I do yours and put on these robes. Should we encounter those that worship my Lord, I will say that you are pilgrims and that I am guiding you under a vow of silence to pray at some of our inner shrines. Can you accept this burden for your own honor to thereby increase the chances of our success?"

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-05-26 10:41:41]
Subject: whatever works!!
Almodhim turns to Shih. "I will gladly don whatever you wish. Whatever will hasten our departure from this most unnatural underground nightmare!" Almodhim moves to receive one of the robes.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-05-26 14:45:58]
Subject: A fashion statement
"Stalwart Aridani, I knew that a brave follower of mighty Chiteng would be first to answer the challenge." *bow*

"You have my thanks Almodhim hiya Harisaya. Please everyone, come find a robe. If we encounter worshipers of Sarku, please conceal your weapons. This is most especially true of the archers."

Shih turns to Almodhim.

"My slaves can help you don the white paint on your hands and face that will add the necessary touch to the illusion. Please let them help you."

My slaves stand expectantly with open jars of white face paint in their hands.

While robes are selected and paint applied, Shih carefully examines the room being very careful not to step on any symbols or glyphs. If the pictures depict a story, he will seek to understand it.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-05-27 18:35:55]
Subject: Toys????
Ssrivan perks up at the mention of the devices maintaining the illusory wall. How to observe the panel without approaching too close to it--it is obvious that the tapestry was some kind of shield/barrier in the past, so sidling to a position that does not break that line would give a better opportunity to study the panel and the lights from a distance. He will take care to carefully scout out the territory he traverses to ensure he doesn't trip any traps or alarms along the way. He will have to move slowly anyway, so as not to raise the dust any--a little around his feet isn't a problem, but it needs to remain undisturbed in the area of the tapestry as well.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-05-27 19:03:44]
Subject: Robes and Concealment
Ssrivan carefully snags one of the Sarkuvian robes as he passes the vicinity of the newcomer on his way to accomplish his informational quest. The face paint can wait until a few of the others have finished with theirs--and it will give him plenty of time to observe the toys in this room.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-05-27 20:49:03]
Subject: Take a bow...
Urutlen reluctantly puts away his bow so that it cannot be seen, but is as easy to get to as possible. He also stashes a daggar or two in the folds of the robe for even easier access.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-05-27 23:47:54]
Subject: Interesting ideas
Dlarumei respectfully declines the face paint; her black lacquer mask shall remain firmly placed. But in an effort to comply with a seemingly good idea she picks out a large robe, one larger than she needs, in order to insure a hood, which will cover her face completely and hopefully hide her from investigating eyes, should they be encountered. With the robe draped over her shoulder she walks towards Shih, bows slightly and speaks in a calm and soft tone.

"I can see that you have come well prepared and I am sure that this fact helps us all to relax a bit, if relax we can under the City of the Dead at this time of year. I would like to assist you in finding our passage to the tubway. While I am sure that you are much more attuned to the writings and glyphs that are found in the Tsuru'um I would offer you my humble knowledge of the language of the ancients. I have studied their writings in Monru for many years and have seen drawings of the passageway that we seek. I know that Kunur had a copy of one of these drawings that I am sure he has shared with you. Perhaps together we will triumph more quickly."

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-05-28 13:17:09]
Subject: paint yer wagon
Almodhim moves to receive the face painting from the slaves. Relectantly, but with resolve

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-05-28 15:23:13]
Subject: Scratch and sniff
"Lady Dlarumei, I make no claims to possess all knowledge. The directions that I received from Kurnur will require that we all leverage what skills and cunning we have to win through to our destination. In short, I know generally what we're looking for, but not the manner of it. In this room, my instructions indicate the existence of a secret passage and no more. So, we must all hunt. At the same time, I must urge extreme caution! Avoid stepping on any pictures or glyphs, especially if they are religious in nature."

"We see all around us the lengths to which some unknown ancients went to protect this place. The way before us could contain traps beyond the experience of any here. Also, I become more and more concerned that we will encounter sophisticated ru'un. I have encountered three that were diminished or damaged at different points in my life's journey. They can be deadly, especially so if encountered in a metal corridor where magic cannot be safely brought to bear. At great personal risk, I was forced to climb onto a slave's back to summon the mighty hands of Kra. While it worked in disabling an already damaged ru'un, the resultant blast burned me horribly and killed my slave. I have never seen a fully functional ru'un and dread the encounter. Also, if anyone hears humming, please alert the group. The ancients use tamed lightning in their devices and, sometimes, in their traps."

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-05-28 18:13:28]
Subject: cough, cough
Orun, on his way to pick up a robe, notices the care with which Ssrivan walks. He also notices the slight dust cloud that is forming from all the activity. This prompts him to say,

" Noble colleagues and the rest of you present, let us keep our movement to a minimum for now. It is apparent that our walking about is creating a disturbance in the air quality of this room. If you must move about, let us do so with cautious steps and without dragging robes and weapons. The dust is thick but it is easily disturbed."

He then moves slowly back to the slaves and porters to insure that they remain still.

From: Game Master [2002-05-29 21:13:22]
Subject: Archive file
The Great Hall is now available to be view in the archives.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-05-29 23:00:52]
Subject: Eyes that can see
Shih moves a little bit apart in the room. Those that are adept at magic may sense him reaching beyond to manipulate extraplanar energy. He then slowly moves about the room.

"I have cast perception of the energies. The two silver boxes have a field around them that casts off a red ora glow and has a red glowing line which runs up the wall behind them and into the ceiling above the boxes."

"In the third alcove on the south side there is a secret doorway under the
table and in the second alcove on the north side (second from the left) there is a doorway in the ceiling. A red glowing line is present in front of the doors at the west end of the
great hall. "

"The fact that I was so easily able to discern these doors with POE is a concern. Sometimes, things are what they appear. However, these two hidden doors could be very cleverly traped. In either case, I suspect that the key to the doors is the two silver boxes."

Shih turns to the area of the slaves.
"Livyani priest, what do you make of this?"

Shih continues to focus on these silver boxes to determine their operation. Privately, he's very concerned that turning off the boxes or pressing the wrong button sequence will not only open the secret door, but release some trap behind the doors at the end of the room. If he has any idea what does what, he will press buttons as he's seen done to summon the tubeway and set its destination.

If he as no idea and nobody else offers any suggestions, then he'll suggest that everyone get ready to fight for their lives. He'll suggest that everyone separates into the alcoves and, after uttering a prayer to Sarku for a easy passing beyond, he'll press buttons.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-05-31 09:37:34]
Subject: disguising
Churisan grimaces, he's obviously not pleased about this, but he cooperates. He unstrings his bow, makes sure his robe is loose, and if necessary cuts a long slit to allow him to remove a weapon. He also gets a shortsword from the party's supplies, as his bronze weapon is still missing.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-06-01 08:20:56]
Subject: Paint & Robes
Neshkriuma will divest the necessary weapons and don the robes and paint needed to traverse this strange place.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-03 23:09:50]
Subject: Introductions
"I'm confused. You've identified two secret doors that are untainted by sorcery, yet instead you investigate the silver box? Why not examine the doors themselves? Perhaps Ssrivan has some thoughts." He pauses, and realizes Shih doesn't know who that is. "Ah, allow me to introduce my noble colleague, Ssrivan Tlokhar of the Dark Fear clan. Master Ssrivan is a master locksmith, and has aided us greatly in such matters already. I should perhaps introduce the other members of our expedition. There is the exalted Hrissu Metumel of Golden Sunburst clan, a reknowned singer of the hymns of Dra, the warrior there is Orun Vu'urtesh of Blade Raised High, and Lady Dlarumei Ba'ascha of the Cloak of Azure Gems you have already spoken with. I am Churisan Soruna of High Pinnacle clan. My colleague speaking to the guards is Neshkriuma Kharsama of Great Stone. The warrior-priestess is Almodhim Harisaya of Red Sword clan, and the learned scholar-priest near her is Adzul Ogeado of Jeweled Scepter. Urutlen Utu-Tengmai only recently joined us, I believe he belongs to the Rising Sun clan. That person there is called Deshnah, and he" (Churisan gestures rather casually towards the Livyani mage-priest) "has not graced us with a name. "

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-03 23:42:46]
Subject: Well met ...
"As I said in the room above, I am pleased to meet all of you. At this most holy of times to my Worm Lord, Sarku, I offer his blessings to each of you that your intellects and egos prosper throughout eternity. For this is my Lord's promise that all who worship him will live to one day see the ultimate victory of Lord Hru'u's change upon the universe."

Shih bows to everyone again in greetings and makes the worm sign with his right hand. He then turns to the area where the slaves and porters are located to once again try to find the Livyani priest.

"Churisan, I thank you for your lan greetings and for that of each of you. I would also meet the Livyani priest of The Shadowed Ones that Kurnur indicated was part of this august assemblage. While I sense his presence, he remains elusive. Please show yourself that I may come to know all who pledge their lives to accomplish this quest as I have now done."

"My lord Ssrivan, I am indeed most interested in your views on what I have described. I am most respectful of the devices and traps devised to protect the secrets of Lord Ksarul."

"As to why I focus on the silver boxes, they appear to glow with extraplaner energy that may originate from these boxes."

ooc: GM please confirm that this is what I see and that I'm not off on a tangent. Is the glow from these secret doors the same as I see eminating from the silver boxes?

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-06-04 17:22:43]
Subject: Children and Baubles
"With all respect as to your presence here and your knowledge of this place Shih, I would strongly suggest you don't touch a single portion of that nice gem encrusted panel in front of you. The possible poisons with which it might have been coated are both long-lasting and cruel in the passing they provide. I would hope you have no desire to go to your Worm Lord in disgrace due to a burst of rash behavior. I am looking at the sources of power in this room myself--and note that I have not attempted to play with them indiscriminately. Observation of the situation and of the room itself is of import--and only then, should we meddle with ANY of the room's baubles."

Ssrivan continues to scan the room at his vantage point near the boxes and the table, gently interposing himself if the impetuous one actually attempts to get too close to the table/panel.

This new-found adherent of the Worm Lord is much hastier in his decisions than others of his ilk, a point Ssrivan is taking deep into his heart.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-04 21:17:53]
Subject: Refulgent blue chlen shit ...
Shih consciously bites back a fitting retort. Instead, he continues to examine everything to understand its operation.

From: Deshnah [2002-06-05 07:28:03]
Subject: Circling the panel
Desh knows that the puzzles which confront the group are not his forte. So while others study the energy flows around them he decides to study the doors for signs of passing etc...without going too near or touching anything

From: Game Master [2002-06-05 11:42:45]
Subject: Chlen dung? In here??
The acoustics of this hall echo with conversations as it has become apparent that its structure allows for the easy listening of all conversations. Even the most calm and discreet of parleys can easily be heard by all. It is this convention, which brings many of you to the understanding that this hall would have been used for most effectively discussing affairs of state or other such important issue driven conversations without secrets. The alcoves seem to be the only area of "dead" space where sounds neither enters nor leaves.

Hrissu is seen looking into the ceiling and studying the pillars and the three thrones. It is obvious that he is trying things and pondering issues over and over in his head.

Deshnah has wandered all the way down to the far end, perhaps 120meters from the rest of the party to examine the four doors in the west wall.

Though standing some distance apart Ssrivan and Shih have been having some discourse about the best manner in which to attack this rooms interesting presentations. Once again the acoustics of this hall prove to be of great assistance in this communication effort.

Nesh, never trusting anything related to the ancients, has set up archers in a perimeter area around the group's main body with other guards posted in strategic locations.

Several of the party members are still applying white makeup and robes of the worm lord. Many of the slaves and porters are being marked as well to keep up the appearance brought forth by Shih to help in safer passage in this underground.

OOC [just an FYI. If you go to the archives and open up the file listed as Ca Great Hall you can see an aerial view of the cavern. Note that the majority of the party is between the three thrones on the east side of the hall and the set of tables in the center. The hall is very large and I really need you to keep track of where you are and where you are going. Please contact me if you plan to move your positions so that I can keep track of your locations as the game progresses in this area. Thanks :-) ]


From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-06-05 19:57:25]
Subject: Ssrivan's Antics
For anyone paying attention, Ssrivan is down on the floor, apparently tracing lines in the dust in a most concentrated fashion. His whisperings indicate he just might be looking for some kind of huge doorway, which seems a bit strange, since no one else seemed to think that there was another exit there.

From: Deshnah [2002-06-06 03:39:15]
Subject: Strange ....
Desh who is down in the West end of the hall finishes scanning the four doors and the space in front of them . Thanks to the good accoustics in the room you hear him mutter to him self.
" Strange, why open a door but not enter the room? Or perhaps they entered without stepping on the floor"

He continues his remote study of the doors...

From: Game Master [2002-06-06 11:41:30]
Subject: sounds cary
From that actions of Ssrivan and Shih, brought to light due to the room's sound characteristics. These are things that the rest of the party would hear whether they would like to or not.

"Looking carefully at the pattern of the different tiles, Ssrivan makes some quick calculations in his head and drops carefully to the floor at the point where the pattern ends and the rest of the floor begins. He carefully traces along the line, looking for the telltale signs of potential or past movement. It is entirely likely that this, like all of the other rooms in this place, was designed for massive pageantry, and as such, the entire area might just be able to rise up and expose a triumphal path to the tubeway station below--and as the staff/superiors here would be the ones on the upper platform, the etiquette of status would be maintained. It would also allow the room's owners to be up and out of the view of arriving visitors in potentially hostile meetings.

All these musings are whispered softly in a test of the room's sound characteristics--as Ssrivan looks towards Shih to verify that he heard what was being said, as well as a look at his lissome assistant, to verify that she donned one of the Worm Lord's robes and that she was still dutifully noting his actions for later cogitation."

Ssrivan's dutiful assistant does respond with a nod of respect and indicates that she is able to hear him clearly.

"Shih nods to Ssrivan indicating that he heard him clearly. He whispers back.

"Clearly, during a major event in this room, a senechal or trusted guard would be hidden with these devices to open the doors and produce various effects. The triumphal procession you describe makes excellent sense and is one possibility. Controlling main access is clearly one of their functions that I learned when coming through the illusory walls in the first place. They probably have one or more protective functions that could be instantly lethal. They may also illuminate the area as I've seen done in some of the halls below Jakalla. Understanding whether any of the tiles are meant to rise or descend is a sound place to begin."

He then bends down to help."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-06 14:52:10]
Subject: Re: Strange
Shih lifts his eyes from the cracks on the floor, carefully sits back on his heels and whispers Deshnah's observation quietly to himself:

"Strange, why open a door but not enter the room? Or perhaps they entered without stepping on the floor"

Shih speaks up, trusting to the excellent acoustics to be heard.

"Desh, please describe what you've found and why you're puzzled. I didn't understand your remark. It's almost certain that doing the wrong things in this room would send our souls quickly beyond. Is a possible explantion for what you're seeing that those of lesser status would view the proceedings in this chamber from beyond those doors? Are they somehow visibly blocked? Do you hear anything that might indicate water, humming or other dangers beyond?"

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-07 17:42:29]
Subject: Curious!!!
"Something just occurred to me. We needed special talismans to get beyond the illusory walls into this area. These talismans came from those in Monru. Judging from the indeterminate age of these piles of ash, I'm beginning to wonder whether we're the first people that those in Monru have sent on this quest. Does anyone have any more information?"

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-06-10 17:41:22]
Subject: Cats?
Dlarumei speaks softly as there is no need for greater volume to be heard.

"The talismans that we were given were from a box that was found by my great uncle. It is one of the items that brought on the beginning of this quest for him. Years of research, reading and deciphering ancient texts have brought us to this place. However, the size and scope of this hall could never have been imagined. In fact, what lay beyond the illusionary walls was unknown till this very day. So, noble priest, we are now allowed only our own cunning and wisdom to solve what we must to continue on with our journey. It appears that others have found their way here as well, though it would seem as if they were not allowed to leave. I know that this group was chosen for their separate abilities, that together we would be able to move forward through all trials. This seems to be yet another trial, and as with all trials, there is a solution, we must only find it."

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-06-10 17:59:03]
Subject: Eyes wide open
Orun, not very comfortable in such a place as this, remains deathly silent and at top guard, scanning the room constantly for any sign of anything that could pose a danger to the party. It is obvious that he has spoken with the guards who are closest to him as they are scanning the room also.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-11 15:27:03]
Subject: On guard
Like Orun, Churisan is obviously not very comfortable in this situation. He moves among the guards, making sure everyone is alert, and then takes a position near the stairs where we entered the room.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-06-11 19:53:25]
Subject: Ssrivan's retort
Said in the same low voice as his prior conversations.

"On the contrary, Shih. The wonderful things on top of this platform make a beautiful magnet for the unwary and the foolish. Those who once worked here loved pageant though, so they would have been very easy for one who knew the system to activate their mechanisms, without unduly endangering themselves. We don't yet know how to trip this door open, if indeed it is one, but it will be a much safer activity than any of the paths we have yet seen. You need look no further than the plundered corpses of our predecessors here to know the price of a misstep."

Ssrivan then continues his careful sifting along the edge of the different area of flooring.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-12 12:55:44]
Subject: What Corpses?
OOC: what corpses is Ssrivan talking about? I haven't seen any mention of corpses in the descriptions.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-06-13 18:49:24]
Subject: In responce.
"Noble Churisan," Dlarumei says softly, to keep her voice from filling the entire room. " I believe that Shih is referring to the piles of ash which lay before that counter as corpses. Though in their present state corps may not quite fit the description." There is a lighthearted sound to her voice as she tries to create a bit of levity to relax some of the others who are starting to feel a bit tense.

From: Deshnah [2002-06-14 05:58:41]
Subject: re the doors
Desh,
Starts realising the whispers have been asking him questions.
He inwardly tuts at being so absorbed in the doors not to notice the requests prior...

In answer to your question Shih, I can hear nothing beyond the doors, certainly their is no indication of mechanisms or items behind the doors as we have so far encountered.

The doors themselves do not seem to be blocked from this side by visible or invisible means.

I can also see no evidence of magical blasts or charring - I might assume then that the door can be opened purely by physical means - either here at the door or over on the panel. But I do not intend to touch anyhthing just yet.

The bodies I passed over on the other side of the room I would guess were Pei Choi, judging from the gems that would have been in their exoskeleton and would have survived the fire which consumed all else. Will someone collect the gmes for the parties coffers?

As far as a detailed description of the doors - I have seen the following:
Outside the doors on the west wall, there seem to be small indentations in the dust where the doors were opened. Not all four have been opened before, as you can see in the dust. From south to North. Door #1 has not been opened in a very long time. Door #2 was opened most recently there are marks where the dust had been moved and then more dust has gathered on top of that. Maybe 20 years ago or so is when you feel that the door was opened last. Door #3 looks similar however, maybe 200 years from its last opening and door #4 comes in around 120-150 years. Strangely though, there are absolutely no tracks in the dust in front of the doors that have been opened. This is really odd to you. There is no sign at all that something walked into the room.

Desh

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-06-14 06:17:51]
Subject: Opened Doors
"Desh, it is likely that the doors were triggered open from the panel here, which would explain the lack of footprints in their vicinity. Looking at the condition of the erstwhile Pe Choi, I would say that one of two things happened to them--they touched the wrong part of the panel and set off a localized trap that exposed them to the Blazing Glory, or it opened the wrong door and something attacked from the far side of it. As it appears that no one approached any of the three doors that have been opened, it would seem that all three of those are linked to traps, and that if any of them is safe to open, it will be the fourth. I will continue to search this area, however, as I have reason to suspect all of the obvious exits from this room."

"Dlarumei, has anyone been to the Tubeway Station in recorded memory? If so, how long ago was that, as it will give us some additional clues as to which paths here might be safer to take?"

Ssrivan then continues his minute examination of the floor area.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-14 09:02:37]
Subject: Yrrrrch ... wrong species
Shih shudders in private contemplation of long ago memories as the import of what's being discussed sinks in.

"While the Pe Choi have exoskeletons, the only species I'm aware of that cements gems to their exteriors is the Hluss. I have encountered these bugs in the past. While they could also be trying to find the tubeway, there may be more to this. They appreciate ancient artifacts as much or more than humans. Their harnesses have metal rings, which could explain the bits of melted metal we found in the piles of ash."

When Shih found the piles of ash, he put the gems in a separate pouch commenting to Ssrivan that we'd figure out how to distribute these later.

Given the relative larger size of a hluss than a man, Shih re-examines the piles of ash to determine if they might have come from a hluss body. Hmmm ... piles are elongaged ... yes, it probably was hluss.

Shih wonders privately what kind of distructive force could reduce one of these bugs to ash ... something more than heat. Dessication and heat? Better than these accursed bugs deserve!

"As a reminder, I perceive an extraplaner magical line in front of all western doors. This continues to support the argument that these doors are opened by these metal panels, which glow with the same aura. Desh, I am encouraged that you didn't see marks such as a ru'un might make or worse, the wide trail of a nshe'. I remain very puzzled by the route the hluss entered by. Does anyone see any tracks?"

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-06-17 18:45:34]
Subject: A breath of....air, anyway
Almodhim feels a touch better in this open space...but she's still on her guard. She is strapping on her gear, getting her sword ready. "Death has been here. Death is certain to come again, and quickly." Almodhim claps to some nearby servants to get some quick rations ready for her, for she knows she's going to need the extra fuel for any carnage that might occur.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-06-17 20:58:21]
Subject: OK
From my watch point near the other end of the room, I respond to Churisan in an almost-murmur, as if he is near at hand. Owing to the acoustics of the room, I can hear him well. "I am watchful, noble Churisan. Send me two guards with hand weapons and their inquisitive nature still about them, and we shall continue to keep watch."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-17 21:17:09]
Subject: Twinkling lights
Shih calls a slave over with a piece of parchment and writing utensil. Taking this, you see him focus on the silver boxes making notes. Afterwards, Shih gets up and backs carefully out of the hidden room to examine the main hall and alcoves.

"To keep you informed, the silver boxes have twinkling lights inset into their tops. Several of these lights in a row and several rows stacked upon each other, all recessed into a rectangular area just below the top of each box. After studying them for a short time, I've determined that they play a pattern that repeats itself. About every minute the pattern starts over and is played through."

"I'm looking for anything in this room that appears to form a grid. It could be art on the walls, separate floor or ceiling tiles, a mosaic, anything."

"Trap master Ssrivan, I have seen colored lights on buttons and within panels that acted as a means to summon tubeway cars, set its destinations, and turn on windows into other places. The ancients and lords of the latter times created devices that were truly wonderous. These lights on the silver panels could be buttons that when pressed cause things to happen. I personally believe them to be a trap. Imagine though the wonder and, as you said, the pageantry of these lights to those not familiar with their purpose. While they may point to a pattern in this room, they may also be completely false, a mechanism to draw the eye away from a much more simple mechanism to open the portal we look for. I see by your actions that you are tracing the extraplaner lines of energy around the portal and, I'm guessing, to the device that operates it. While your actions make the most sense, I'll look for an alternate way to interpret these lights."

I wander purposefully around the room trying to find a grid pattern on anything in the room. This includes the chairs (i.e., under, over, around) and any columns.

If I don't find anything immediately, I direct some of the slaves to an area of floor away from everyone (to avoid choking dust)and have them clear away dust from a small section of floor.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-18 12:22:41]
Subject: Watching
Assured that guards are watching and listening at the stairways and doors, Churisan joins Neshkriuma and Orun near the piles of ash.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-19 21:19:45]
Subject: safe alcove?
Churisan calls quietly. "Noble priests, master craftsman, we would like to move the servants into one of the alcoves, preferably that one (he gestures at the one in middle on the wall opposite the stairs we entered down). Is it safe?"

From: Deshnah [2002-06-20 03:12:26]
Subject: Searching for the Grid
Desh joins in the search for the grid or pattern. He considers the doorways and then looks towards the North wall for any indication on that wall...

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-06-24 07:13:48]
Subject: Where they are ...
OOC: GM, I'm assuming from our earlier posts that we've explored this room thoroughly and that the alcove in question has been examined.

"Churisan, if you think it wise, then please move them. I have no reason to believe that alcove is less safe than where they are. Alternately, if there are ancient protective devices, they may be designed to operate most effectively in the main room in defense of whoever reigned here. Please move them; good thinking."

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-06-24 12:42:16]
Subject: to the alcove
Churisan gives a few orders, and the bearers and servants (who had been standing around nervously amid the tables) move into the large alcove in the middle of the wall opposite the stairs we entered on. The guards adjust their positions accordingly. "Colleagues, this is not time or place for cooking, but I've ordered some of the prepared food out. You may wish to eat a bite or two, or have someone refill your water bottle."

From: Game Master [2002-07-01 11:47:38]
Subject: Things
As the slaves and porters shuffle off to the northeast alcove they raise a bit of dust. Try though they might to walk calmly and with purpose a small cloud rises in the area from where they were to the alcove. While many of the nobles find this to be an annoyance, Ssrivan and Shih look up from their work momentarily, hearing the migration, and notice something quite odd. As the dust cloud rises up to about the 3-meter level a thin red line is noticed. It seems to fade in and out as the dust crosses the area. The small section that has reveled itself, about a meter of line, runs straight down the center of the room from east to west and appears to be invisible without the dust covering its path.

In the alcove, some of the slaves and porters set up a protective perimeter under the direction on Churisan and Nesh, while others begin preparing a quick meal for all. While the dried meats and other packed item promise to be a rather uninteresting repast, the will suffice as a good means to ward off hunger and supply some energy.

Hrissu is noticed wandering around the large pillars and send notes of song up along their sides, while Almodhim has taken this time to pause and rest herself for more active moments when she might be needed. Deshnah is seen purposely feeling the walls on the north side of the room. Through the alcoves and around the pillars, it is obvious that he is searching for something. Dlarumei is also searching, in like fashion, along the south walls and alcoves. Adzul can be seen sitting in one of the alcoves feverishly scribing notes, about this rooms content, onto a parchment that he has scrolled in front of him. Urutlen is watching very intently towards the ceiling, searching for any items that might look out of place or pose a threat.

From: Deshnah [2002-07-02 02:43:44]
Subject: Pattern in the wall
Friends,
I believe there is a pattern scribed onto the wall in relief - a single line running around the entire room. Can those of you close to other walls confirm if it is there as well - it is about 3ft off the floor.

Also within each alcove here in the North wall the pattern changes to form an intricate pattern, the line travels without break thru the pattern and out the other side.

The slight evidence of burning within the pattern suggests it was either made by heat and fire or it marks a pathway for such. I wonder if the ancients used such divices to protect the room and what effect this fire would have on any of us in line with the pattern?

Desh

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-02 23:43:05]
Subject: Interesting
Upon hearing Deshnah's words from across the room, Dlarumei stands up from her crouched search along the base boards and examines the patterns etched into a band that runs along the wall at the 3 foot level.

" You are right Deshnah," Dlarumei says softly, yet is easily heard by all. " The pattern seems to be one contiguous line carved into the stone. There are also burn marks in the channels on this side as well, just as you described on your side of the room. I am not sure how they were caused so I would defer to Ssrivan if he has the time to look at this interesting item. With his apparent training in such matters he might be able to recognize the patterns and burns."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-03 14:52:55]
Subject: Patterns in the alcoves
After conferring briefly with Ssrivan, Shih walks over to the alcoves to examine the patterns found there. He holds up a stone(?) to compare these patterns with the inscriptions on the back of the stone(?).

"So that we are all aware of it, there is another red line three meters off the ground running the length of the room in the middle."

Anyone looking up will see the red line revealed in the dust suspended in the air.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-07-04 09:25:27]
Subject: Check this out.....
You all might want to take note of those carved creatures at the tops of the pillars (he says, nodding his head in their direction) I don't know much about all of these things, but they just don't look right to me.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-05 00:09:08]
Subject: Hummm interesting
Dlarumei studies the small stones pattern and compares it to the one that runs the walls surface.

"I can see no similarity between this pattern on the wall and the pattern on this stone, noble Shih. I must admit that until Deshnah pointed out some of the peculiarities about this wall pattern, I had simply supposed that it was just a form of decorative art. But now I am not so sure. Look closely Shih and see the slight burn marks within the patterns themselves. What can you imagine that would cause such an interesting marking?"

Her voice, though low and calm, caries throughout the hall.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-07-05 00:38:26]
Subject: I sees feets
Orun who has been strangely, and uncharacteristically quiet for quite some time, speaks up.

"Noble Shih, you had asked if any other tracks had been found, and while I do not claim to have a refined talent for tracking, I can most certainly identify Hluss tracks, accursed bugs," he mutters under his breath. "There seems to be a set of old tracks, though practically buried, which indicates that they arrived into this room through the same door that you did. The door in the alcove on the northwest corner. The tracks also seem to indicate that they knew where they were going as they head straight for the area behind the three thrones there where you and Ssrivan have been working. The tracks do not wander, neither do they indicate that any stops were made nor that they glanced around to find their bearings. No it seems to me that they went in a straight shot to that local, just as straight and unwavering as one of Urutlen's loosed arrows."

Orun kicks at one of the tracks, wiping it clean from the floor and rising a bit of dust. He then walks slowly and carefully back to where Nesh and Churisan have set up the slaves and porters.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-05 02:17:00]
Subject: Not right ...
Shih looks up at the creatures Urutlen is pointing out at the top of the columns and tries to discern whether they are indeed strange. The word demon hovers at the back of his mind as he makes his examination.

From: Hrissu hi Metumel [2002-07-05 09:30:30]
Subject: Standing back a bit
Satisfied that the acoustics of this place are indeed extraordinary, Hrissu steps back near the porters and slaves, allowing the investigators to do their work.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-06 00:55:13]
Subject: Magic circle
"Though I'm not familiar with this particular configuration, I feel strongly that the patterns and lines form a magical containment area, possibly for the things at the top of the columns, but certainly to contain or invoke fire. Examining the symbols and scorch marks, it appears that they are completely contained within the pattern. From this I surmise that whatever burned the small marks into the pattern originated from within the pattern itself. I further suspect that whatever incinerated the Hluss was a room-wide effect."

"If our Livyani companion would join us, his deeper knowledge of sorcerous matters could be of true value."

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-07 10:16:22]
Subject: Wandering around
Ssrivan seems pretty quiet at the moment, though he is moving around a lot in his area of the room. It appears he is trying to find one of the ends of the red rainbow, though not much else is obvious from his movements. He does seem to be listening to the inputs others have been asking for, as he does look up at the pillar-tops and at the line in the wall near his current location. Once he finishes there, he returns to the small hole he appears to have made in the floor shortly before Shih came over to him and set him off on his current wanderings.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-08 18:29:11]
Subject: Pageantry ...
"Ssrivan, imagine the pageantry of a trusted chamberlain ceremoneously raising a large ornate staff to touch the hidden red beam of light and the floor opening as you've described. Truly grand!"

On the raised pedestals, is there a place where someone standing could reach up to touch the hidden red line?

From: Deshnah [2002-07-09 03:37:48]
Subject: Turning from the pattern
Desh seems quietly pleased at his discovery of the burnt and inscribed pattern running around the north wall and the patterns it forms.  Whilst others have added this discovery to their pool of knowledge Desh glances around the remainder of the room, tracing the line of the inscription and then moving his gave onto the creatures at the top of the columns - "What makes them appear strange I wonder?" He says quietly

From: Hrissu hi Metumel [2002-07-09 09:32:01]
Subject: Thrones... why the heck not?
Hrissu, with a sudden mad gleam in his eye goes over to the dias and attempts to sit down in one of the thrones. Doing so, he cocks his ear to one side and listens to acoustics some more.

From: Game Master [2002-07-09 17:18:42]
Subject: Sing by, sing
Dra the uncaring has some interesting disciples…
Hrissu wanders to the dais a plops down on the center throne and cocks and ear to the air to listen to what he can hear. One of the first things that he hears is a gasp of air coming from behind him where Ssrivan stands next to the wall and then he notices that all eyes are looking straight at him. This would include the eyes from above perched atop the pillars. Hrissu freezes for the moment and to the North and South of the room of the center of the room, between the two center-most alcoves, on the main floor, two short pillars rise from the floor to about one meter in height. They are almost a meter square and there is ample dust raised as well and a nerve jumbling scraping of stone on stone as they move upward to their station. You all notice that some of the slaves shrink back, remembering the last time stones moved on their own.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-09 17:27:12]
Subject: um,.. oops
Dlarumei spins and raises a hand in Hrissu's direction and calmly says.

"Noble Hrissu, it would be most prudent of you not to move from your spot, in fact, I would suggest that everyone should stay perfectly still for a moment until we have had a chance to digest this newest situation we now find ourselves. It is obvious that we can all hear each other no matter how close or far away we stand from one another. So there is no need to move, besides if this idea of Shih's is correct and pageantry is the order of the day, respect would be in extreme order at this moment for whomever sits on the throne."

With that Dlarumei slowly drops to her knees facing Hrissu and takes a submissive posture while fingering strange gestures with her hands.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-07-09 20:26:53]
Subject: bafflement
"Noble scholars, I was indeed just about to urge that we move onward if we can, but this precipitous behavior is perhaps a trifle rash. Please recall that our goal is simply to find the way to the Ancient's transportation device below. And that above us and around us are an untold number of Sarku-worshippers eager to invite us to their rites..." Churisan has his bow and arrow ready as his eyes dart around the room. He is standing near a column, having just been peering at one of the beasts when Hrissu took the throne. "I can't imagine what Hluss were doing here, so far from the ocean, but this is not where we were told we would find the sphere. That place is far to the north, beyond the mountains. I am uncertain of your epiphany, learned priest."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-09 20:31:30]
Subject: Cause they only have eyes ... for you
Shih's immediate reaction is to prepare to cast Hands of Kra amidst the demons as they descend to eviscerate Hrissu. If, on the other hand, the demons decide to render him down to a smoldering mass of body fat and bone, then Worms of Death on their ledge would be the order of the day. If all they do is watch, then it's likely that Hrissu can give them orders which, given my limited knowledge of the man, would probably be to sit on the ledge and do nothing.

Assuming that the demons don't cause me to destroy myself in a futile attempt to protect Hrissu, Shih motions Ssrivan out of the alcove with the devices.

"I've had an epiphany! In those helpful piles of Hluss, I discovered three unusual flat gems. Their colors are quite telling. If I'm right, I have the solution to our puzzle. One gem is azure, the other red, and the last green. That triad of color has particular significance and is also seen in decorations around this room. Unless anyone here has a better plan, I'll have two slaves climb atop the platform next to our lucky priest of Dra and raise me so that I can reach the hidden beam of red light. While papers in Monru indicated that this was the quest for the Emerald Sphere, I have reason to believe that it will require all three gems in sequence to accomplish our objective. I believe that we must climb on the pedestal and hold up the three gems, I'm guessing in the order of blue, green and red, into the beam of light. If that doesn't work, then I'd suggest trying the sequence in different order. Lastly, I'd try just green. Does anyone have additional thoughts on this that they would now share."

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-07-09 20:48:37]
Subject: startled
"Hoi! I was indeed just about to suggest what we need to proceed more quickly, but noble priests, is this not perhaps a bit precipitous? Please recall that our goal is merely to pass on to our transportation below. And that above us and around us are untold numbers of Sarku-worshipers, eager to invite us to their rites..." Churisan has Shih's steel sword in hand, and was peering at one of the creatures on the columns when Hrissu sat down. Now his eyes dart around the room. "I don't know what Hluss were doing here so far from the ocean. The colored plates are intriguing, but we are far from where the Emerald Sphere is said to be, it lies beyond the northern mountains, near the inland sea. Why would they exert power here in constructions of the Worm Lord?"

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-09 22:23:33]
Subject: Anhhhhh ... wrong answer!
"Churisan, my companion, this room has nothing to do with the worship of Sarku. I believe that it pre-dates that or was built here when Sarku worship was not dominant here in the Kra Hills. This area is very fertile magically and, I believe, was quite contested in ages past."

"I'm afraid that my reasoning goes along a different path, one much more distressing. Did you know that just south of us there's a place on the Sakbe road where the Battle of Dormoron plane can still be seen taking place? There, if you had an age to watch, you would see that the Doomed Prince of the Blue Room was and remains allied with two terrible beings, anathema to life on this plane of existence. I speak of The Goddess of the Pale Bone and The One Who Is. Had it not been for The One Other betraying that triad, none of us would be having this conversation. Emerald is the color of The Goddess and red with a white dot the color of The One Who Is. Blue for Ksarul."

"Look about you. This motif, which has all of these colors and related symbols, was not chosen at the accidental whim of some austere clan matron. I believe that this place would be considered holy to those who wish to restore that triad to power. I am very concerned that beyond this room we will find one or more shrines and artifacts sacred to that alliance."

"My knowledge of these matters is in part why I was selected for this quest. I have been giving this matter much thought."

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-09 23:54:34]
Subject: Hoi, HOI, HOI!!!!!
"Let us be patient!"

Dlarumei's voice is more troubled now.

"Do not make any sudden movements! Prepare for action but take none at this moment. If your swords are sheathed, do NOT draw them out, if they are out already, prepare them but leave them at your side. I fear that any action taken will bring that host of, things, down upon those who take action. They seem to look to Hrissu, not as food or fodder, but as guide. And I would encourage you, Hrissu, not to make any motions at all. Even a head nod could be interpreted in any number of ways. We must remain calm and be very selective in our actions. We must also be prepared all for any action we take and it must be simultaneously executed or we may be overwhelmed."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-10 09:07:46]
Subject: Should we decoupage him?
"Good priest Hrissu, I believe that Dlarumei and Churisan are correct about the predicament you find yourself in. This could be a most auspicious sign that you should embrace the Worm Lord quickly so that you may receive his promise of eternal life."

While said with sincerity, it's also said with a humorous lilt that indicates that Shih has no such expectations.

"I do very much agree that you should remain motionless at least for the moment. Unfortunately, I greatly fear that we must now fight the creatures on the column. Surely, they were set to guard those thrones to prevent their defilement. Should you get up without making the appropriate signal ... well ... worshiping the Worm Lord does have its advantages." =)

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-07-10 09:44:05]
Subject: Threes
Inspired by the levitation of the two additional platforms, Churisan views the room with the eyes of a builder, his eyes glancing around again before settling on the creature on the pillar, whose wings are twitching. He calls from his place next to the pillar closest to the middle north alcove: "Your theology is strange to me, but there is indeed a theme of threes here. Three thrones, three alcoves on each side, three steps at the entrances, now three raised platforms, the throne dais and the two others. And you say you have three stones? Surely these conjoin somehow?"

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-10 10:06:01]
Subject: Symbols ...
"Good point Churisan. It's possible that the gems need to be inserted into the light from those particular pedestals. Hmmm ... are there symbols on each pedestal?"

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-07-10 12:22:04]
Subject: Let's see here...
Orun, closer to the recently raised pedestal than anyone else, calls out to the rest in a calm and strong voice.

" There are no marks of symbols on these new arrivals that I can tell. There does seem to be two purposefully placed inlaid rectangles that are a bit askew, and, when I look at the way my feet are placed when I stand it seems that they would fit the pattern on the top of the pedestal. Other than that, the only interesting addition is that the dust has revealed an alarming inability for me to catch my breath and another invisible red line which is traveling over the top of this pedestal from the wall to the center of that large chandelier type object which hangs in the middle of the room.?"

Orun then coughs a few times and looks back up to the creatures on the ceiling.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-11 01:33:25]
Subject: Epiphany revised
"It appears that we must stand on each of the pedestals and raise one gem on each. The light will shine on the chandelier and something will happen. Ssrivan, this would seem to be the a solution to some problem. You may be absolutely right to focus in the alcove. If so, then what we're investigating will has some other effect. Your thoughts here are critical!"

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-07-11 07:15:43]
Subject: At the ready.......
Urutlen, ever amazed by Hrissu, is standing very still,is ready to loose a slew of arrows at a moments notice. He has grown very fond of the eccentric priest, and would like him to hang around a while longer.

From: Deshnah [2002-07-12 04:18:25]
Subject: Considering a spell...
Are we agreed the creatures atop the pillars are likely to offer us no good advice or help if they come to life?

Perhaps a spell to envelop them in a web may be useful when we try to use the gems to deflect the light onto the chandleir?

Whilst remainng completely still, Desh continues to focus on the pillars and mumble words as if in preperation to use a spell should the need arise.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-12 09:03:38]
Subject: If they come to life ... too late
"Desh, I'm not sure that casting a preemptive spell at them is a good idea unless we're prepared to immediately engage them. If we think we'll have to engage them, then standing on a slave's shoulders atop a pedestal is probably not where I'd choose to be. Getting it ready in case they become agitated by our activities does sound like a good precaution though."

A description is in order:

The figures atop the pillars are long human looking creatures with two arms and two legs. Very thin and drawn they are and nude. They are squatting on the pillars tops with their knees tucked into their chests. Their heads are rather dog shaped with large fang type teeth escaping from out their lips. They have very long fingers with claw-like nails at their ends. Their feet also seem to shaped like their hands and over their backs are large wings that are folded up tightly and now twitch from side to side. They seem to have no armor and carry no weapons other than thin club-like stick. Some of them have this stick tucked in a belt, others have it in their teeth and yet others carry it in their hands or feet. But each one of them owns one.

GM: How many are there and how are the ones on the back side of the column to Hrissu watching him? I'm assuming that they're completely silent. Would a web spell be large enough to cover them or simply inconvenience them as they fly out the uncovered back side?

"The column they're on is large enough that it must be load bearing. Let's try not to damage it. Does anyone have Ineffable Blight or similar area effect spell? My worms will feed well on their naked flesh."

From: Game Master [2002-07-14 01:28:43]
Subject: Clarifications
A quick clarification from the Gm.

There are, at least, 20 creatures that can be counted atop the pillar. A rough estimate would put the creatures around 2 meters in length, were they to stand erect. The majority of them are looking to the throne where Hrissu is seated. But, there are a few (approx. 5) who are busy looking off into other spots in the room. One each peers to the newly raised pillars on the north and south sides of the room. One to Ssrivan behind the console, one to the slaves and porters in the alcove and one to Shih and Dlarumei on the south side of the hall. If you are not listed by name here please do not think that you're not being watched because…you are:-)

As to spell effectiveness:
Like most things in life, you just can't tell if it's gonna work till you try it. Someone made a good point earlier that this is fertile, rich land and therefore very conducive to magic working and usually working well. There are many bonuses added to the spell caster when he or she produces physic or ritual spells on fertile land. The opposite is true when spells are cast on barren or desolate land. Some spells can go catastrophic if cast in miserable conditions. So,… while you are all seemingly "under" fertile soil, it is, perhaps, better to think of it as being within the heart of fertile soil. So therefore, heed this warning and be careful of the spells you choose to let loose. Some might be stronger than you had intended or you may even lose control over your own spells if they become too powerful. Of course it surely does help to have the power to eliminate ones foes. The problem here could be argued that if your spells are stronger, faster, better than they were, then so are your enemies. Let us not be confused either, because while the cavern above was also in and around fertile soil, it had other properties, which counteracted spell casting of certain types. Just a little hint here, remember the sand and how unnatural it was. Obviously imported and all over the entire floor. Wink wink. It served several purposes, not the least being a great conductor of electricity when wet. So, magic users, be ever conscious of your surroundings, I am, and it plays a large roll in your spell effectiveness.

Dust control:
With all the activity going on, what with pillars rising and people shuffling about you all notice that there is a knee high dust cloud that has developed in 2/3rds of the great hall. The raised alcoves are still clear of the cloud as is the tops of the raised pillars and the three raised thrones. Behind the thrones is still clear (where Ssrivan is lurking) and the set of four doors at the extreme west end of the hall are also clear. The dust is so fine that it is almost vapor-like in nature.

Oh, do have fun with all this, I am...:-)

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-07-14 10:42:23]
Subject: that ol' black magic
Almodhim has been listening to all said. She understands that she must not draw her sword, no matter how unnatural this magic-filled place feels. She stays on her toes, though. Almodhim will be ready for whatever is required of her.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-16 08:58:11]
Subject: BOOM!!!
In a strident tone ...

"Everyone please listen a moment. Please extinguish all flames. If possible, use magic light. As Hrissu is not apparently in immediate danger of being eaten, I'm suggesting that we sit and let the dust settle."

"When young, I was once wakened by a terrible explosion that shook the walls. A granary, miles from my home, blew up killing everyone in the immediate vicinity and sending debris thousands of feet away. A clan elder told me later that it was a dust explosion. These are quite common during the hot months when there's no rain. While usually not this severe, the granary was huge and only half full."

"While I'm not sure if the concentration of dust is sufficient (a granery has much more dust), it's still worth being careful. Even if it doesn't explode, a fire is also possible. I suspect that if the powdery dust in this room were to explode, then the support columns might not survive the blast. This would be ... bad! Let's re-ignite the torches in an hour."

"While I don't like wasting water, I'm suggesting that we have the slaves dribble water on the floor, particularly in areas where we're walking frequently. Does anyone have a spell that would create water?"

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-07-16 14:21:27]
Subject: dust
flatly, in response to Shih's latest warning,

"I suspect we are more in danger of suffocating than exploding. In any case, we must have light. It may suit you to burrow down here in the dark, but not me, nor, I think, my companions. We will not extinguish torches unless there is sorcerous light first.

As to water, unless someone knows of a safe source nearby, or can provide it with sorcery, we should conserve it for drinking. We've no way to return to the surface now."

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-07-16 15:58:38]
Subject: They speak softly, but.........
"Don't be fooled be the size of those sticks the creatures are carrying. In my dealings in the merchant trade, I have seen these types of sticks before. They are filled with something heavier than wood, like a metal of some sort. If you get struck by one of them, it will cause much more than a bruise. Also, didn't Churisan mention something about the three stones earlier? I think we should consider their significance. I don't believe anything is going to get better all by itself at this point."

From: Deshnah [2002-07-18 02:30:31]
Subject: Time is running out...
Uhmmm, I don't like the look of this - I fear we are runnig out of time.

There is a small slot in this wall (I am standing roughly behind the pillar that rose up on the North side). The slot runs up from the floral pattern up towards the point where the beam of light eminates from.
In the slot is a glass tube of some sort and it is rapidly filling up with green liquid, my friends it is already one third full.

I guess that there are similar tubes near the other points where the light beams eminate from and they are also filling up?

I assume they are not for decoration but something will occur when the green liquid reaches the top. Either something less than pleasant or possibly is this the coloured lense we have been thinging of creating using the coloured gems?

So saying Desh turns and continues to watch the increasing height of the green liquid.

From: Deshnah [2002-07-19 03:13:34]
Subject: Time & colours
Friends the more I consider thir rising liqiud the more I think the colour of liquid is important - I believe this may be the lens we are looking for to colour the red light beams.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-19 06:31:59]
Subject: Gems and beams
"Note please that the Ruby, Azure, and Emerald gems are of just the right size to seal over the holes from which the beams appear to emanate--or maybe they END there and are coming FROM the chandelier. It might be a really good idea for you to place them into these points now--Ruby first, followed by Emerald, and lastly Azure, before the room begins to erupt in the dance of flaming death. "

Ssrivan's mind is racing as he considers all of the possibilities--but of one thing he is sure--the impetuous ones have started things a little too soon for his liking.

"Hrissu--whatever you do--do NOT move from your current location, unless you want to end your Skein instantly. You have triggereed the first part of a trap, and moving much more will trigger the rest of it."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-19 13:20:46]
Subject: If the shoe fits
"The last ritual I saw started with blue, progressed to green and then to red. However, if you're sure that red, green, then blue is the order, let's do as you suggest."

I give the red gem to Deshnah and the blue gem to Ssrivan as he's a Ksarul worshiper. I'll retain the green gem and do whatever it takes to get into position to put that gem into the hole when Ssrivan directs.

"A warning, do not immediately look at whatever opens or happens. To highlight my concern with a tale from another place, there is a shrine to the Goddess of the Pale Bone under Jakalla that I'm told will melt anyone who looks upon it and does not worship her."

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-19 18:45:13]
Subject: Three Gems
"With three of us in position, we should be able to have someone count and on the agreed number, insert all three of the stones. I would suggest three as the number, as there are that many Gems here."

Ssrivan snaps his fingers and points at a pair of his lucky bearer slaves--they shall position themselves to insert the Azure stone at his command (one on the shoulders of the other).

Ssrivan will then advance with them to the appropriate wall space for the Azure stone.

"It might be a good idea to have offerings of some kind on the three pedestals--and seeing this place, they had better be live ones. Naught may come of it, but preparation is always a good thing."

Ssrivan continues his inexorable advance to the wall while pointing out three more trembling slaves to approach their assigned positions in front of the pedestals, to mount them after his command (which will come at the same time as the command to insert the stones).

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-20 00:42:48]
Subject: Um, hello?
"Let us not be hasty in our thoughts and careless in our actions noble ones. Yes, we seem to be under a time pressure, but as Ssrivan has just suggested, the wrong thing can bring us all a little closer to our gods. If Deshnah claims that the color of the liquid in his wall is green, then why would we offer him any other colored stone that the emerald one? Are all the tubes offering the same color as Deshnah's? And Shih, noble priest of the worm god, I would not step away from your station to deliver these gems to the others. Our watchful eyes seem not to like the slaves movements at all. Instead, noble priest, give the stones to me that I might pass them slowly to the others without walking."

Dlarumei slowly sluffs of the robe of Sarku which had covered her robes of Ksarul, and gracefully rises to her feet. With her head still bowed toward Hrissu she says.

"If you are correct in your assumptions, noble Shih, and this is all based on ceremony, then I would think that any movements that we make should follow in a ceremonious fashion. To scurry or sulk about would be to bring down the masses from above. If you would please, noble Shih, hand me the stones that I might send them where they need to go. Green to Deshnah, and I can see a red line behind Ssrivan, so I would assume he would receive the red stone and that would leave Azure for us.?"

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-07-20 08:13:38]
Subject: The Mark of the Beasts
Urutlen is watching all that is happening and trying to keep an eye on as many of the Beasts as he can. He is prepared to pick off as many of the Beasts as possible if they make a move towards any of the party.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-20 10:02:01]
Subject: Memory role time ...
Doing his best to recapture the formal ritual associated with passing of an object (it was an odd mask at that time) from the ceremony he once saw, Shih passes the red and green gems to Dlarumei. With all formality, he then moves to stand before the blue liquid tube next to him. On a hunch, positioning his left hand to catch the gem if he's wrong, he positions his gems at the top of the column of liquid in the hope that by some magic, the gem will be carried upwards into the correct position slowly as the liquid rises. If that doesn't work, he raises the gem overhead with the expectation that one of the winged monkeyboys will swoop down (now that's pageantry!) and place the gem in its correct position.

To GM: Confirming that the holes where the gems would fit are much too high to reach without some augmentation?

From: Deshnah [2002-07-22 08:55:45]
Subject: Acting with Pagentry
Desh, not used to thoughts of Pomp and Ceremony prepares to receive the Emerald gem. Once received he plans to use the pedestal to reach up and place it atop the 'phila' of rising green liquid.

"Honourable Orun may I ask - those delightful gems that are hanging from your belt - Why are they glowing?" Althought Desh like many others has seen Dlarumei create them each morning with her sunrise ritual this is the first time he has noticed them glowing.

From: Hrissu hi Metumel [2002-07-22 11:11:04]
Subject: Ah, thrones.
Hrissu sits on the throne, vaguely smiling. He responds to Dlarumei's gestures and obeisances with the dignity befitting a Priestking of Ganga, almost instinctively. He is a peculiar combination, this scion of highest lineage, this careless idiot savant. He does not seem concerned about his own safety, nothing in his gaze or manner seems troubled. He follows the instructions of his companions only because it seems to please them.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-22 13:26:45]
Subject: One order of Pomp to go
Dlarumei, after taking the gems from Shih, holds them in her hands tightly and begins a chant in a tongue that is known by none of you. Nor does it even resemble any language that you have ever heard. Her voice ever growing in volume and intensity, she opens her hands and the gems seem to float in mid air. The blue gem moves slowly towards Shih, who reaches to take it from the air. The green gem flies across the room to Deshnah and hovers before his face until he takes it from before him, and the red gem travels in Ssrivan's direction until his fingers wrap around it. When this is finished you notice that Dlarumei, herself, is floating off the ground and she moves slowly through the air to stand/float before Hrissu. She mutters something to him that is heard by all but, in some strange fashion, only understood by Hrissu. She then turns her back to him and claps her hands above her head as though to signal some beginning.

Her voice strong and authoritative, "Play along my noble companions, so far we are moving forward. Or at least it seems as though we are."

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-07-22 13:43:23]
Subject: Calm in mid stream.
Orun speaks quickly to Deshnah.

"From what I understand, noble shaman, they are a source that can retain extra power for her when she needs it to cast spells. They only last a few days, and that is why she replenishes them each morning. I carry them for safekeeping and for other reasons that she has not explained to me. I'm sure that we can discuss this at a later, more convenient time as you seem to have a job coming your way."

Orun is, of course, referring to the gem that is headed towards Deshnah's head.

From: Game Master [2002-07-22 18:12:46]
Subject: What's next?
It appears that all of this action has caught the interest of the creatures high in the ceiling. They peer down, following with their eyes and heads, those who move. The slaves tentative movement caught the biggest response, wings moving at bit and clubs being drawn into attack positions. Dlarumei's actions seem to bring order back to the creatures and some focus to the affaire at hand. Shih's idea of a ritualistic affaire seems to have been correct and the beasts seem less agitated now that there is some action happening.

Both Ssrivan and Shih, being tall, are able to slip their gemstones into the open hole at the top of the long indentation in the wall, which holds the tub filling with colored liquid. It is with much stretching and grunting that Ssrivan delicately fingers the stone into place, but he manages it and presses into a more solid setting with his dagger. Deshnah is also able to achieve this result but by leaping to the wall from the pedestal and sticking to the wall that he must climb a bit to reach his target. Once his stone is in place, he drops back to the pedestal. Deshnah tries to leap down from the pedestal but as he approaches the edge of the stone he notices that the creatures become agitated. It is obvious that he would bring this to Shih's attention as well, and Shih being who he is would test the theory and notice that if he make gestures of leaving the top of the pedestal that the creatures become agitated with him as well.

Dlarumei claps three times loudly, in an attempt to distract the creatures, but they do not move from their intended. She then makes gestures towards Shih and Deshnah to follow her example in the pageantry at hand.

Somehow Orun has slipped back against the wall and has managed to load his heavy crossbow, and item that no one has ever seen him use, and Urutlen has his bow pointing downward but the bowstring is taunt with two arrows knochted. Almodhim, not too far off of Orun's right shoulder has set up a brace of weapons on the table in the alcove that she is in. Her appointed slaves slowly slipping knives and other weapons to the surface of the table, from her rolled up fabric bag, for easy reach. Nesh and Churisan seem to have been targeted by the creatures, probably due to the fact that they control a large number of people in the alcove directly behind them, and have had no opportunity to move without causing disturbance much less ready any weapons further than those already at hand.

Like a drunk Emperor astride his throne, Hrissu seems to be all too at easy in the power seat and plays his role as though he truly belongs there. All wait for the liquid to rise to the newly place gems, or do they?

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-22 21:47:40]
Subject: Examining details
Having the red beam yet as an example at his hole, Ssrivan puffs a bit of dust upward to see if the beam is still exiting the hole, and if it remains red. He will also look carefully at the track on the wall to see if it is still gaining in illumination/virulence.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-07-23 06:51:21]
Subject: Ready, Steady, Go !!
Urutlen, calmly tense, is waitng for the winged things to make any sort of aggressive move. He is also ready to spring to safety, perhaps to the top of one of the nearby pillars if need be.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-07-23 20:57:04]
Subject: still
Churisan has Shih's steel sword in his hand. He has gradually assumed a classic stance, sword held parallel to the ground but raised to head level. He stands still and watchful.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-24 14:38:09]
Subject: Be careful what we wish for ...
"Given the devices and other things we've seen here, it would appear that we're dealing with artifacts from the latter days. If this is associated with the triad as I believe, then this should be a holy site to certain of their worshipers. But, knowledge of this place was somehow lost. What bothers me most is its lack of usage. The last things to come here were Hluss 20+ years ago. Something(s) were hidden here by whoever last sat on that throne and it appears they never returned. Clearly, they knew how to summon and bind demons to their will. When whatever opens here from our efforts, I believe that we could face magical and mechanical guardians that are vastly more powerful than anything we've yet seen. Until we're through this, please share anything you see or sense. The smallest piece of information may be the difference between life and death for us all."

From: Deshnah [2002-07-26 03:17:44]
Subject: Time slips on..
Desh takes a glance around the room as he checks to see if all the tubes are filling at the same speed.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-07-27 08:50:24]
Subject: Almost baked weenies
Shih makes the Sign of the Worm, praying silently to his Lord for strength and guidance, when suddenly he looks up. Those near him might notice a strange necrotic dark gleam in his eyes. Shih withdraws the carved stone found amidst the Hluss remains and the carved stone used to enter this room. In each hand, he raises a stone so that they can be easily taken by someone levitating.

"Dlarumei, it is time to deliver the final key! Please take these two stones to Ssrivan along with the one that you possess so that he can place them correctly within the console. Please ... do this swiftly before we are all incinerated."

Once Dlarumei comes to take the stones, Shih once again offers prayers to the Worm Lord in thanks.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-28 13:47:53]
Subject: Patterned stones
"Shih is right Dlarumei, I will need the three patterned stones. Each signifies the opening of one of the ways into this room and the channeling of that door's associated being's power into it. Now all I need to do is put them in in the proper order. I suspect, since the Hluss opened the first door, that their stone must be placed first to follow the scheme of the pageant, followed by the stone used by Shih, and lastly, the stone we used. That would be a logical progression though there are others. I really need to examine all three stones together, and quickly, for we don't have a lot of time left."

Ssrivan then waits, hands outstretched in a position of both supplication and expectation--the stance one would expect of a high priest in the midst of an important ceremony.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-07-29 01:12:42]
Subject: tossing stones..
Dlarumei makes a few motions and produces the stone from within her robes. It hovers before her and soon the two that Shih holds up are silently moving to join hers. When all three are together they move towards Ssrivan with great speed, who plucks them from the air in front of him.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-07-29 14:27:29]
Subject: Stones 3
Ssrivan carefully places the stones so that he can observe them together. Do they seem to fit together in any specific pattern? His study of the patterns of the console lights should make this a relatively simple comparison--as the edges of the stones can only be assembled in a very limited number of patterns, depending on exactly how they were cut. The lights should have eliminated the least likely ones already.

From: Hrissu hi Metumel [2002-07-30 14:46:02]
Subject: How can I not be at ease?
Remembering that Hrissu hiMetumel is 137th in succession from the throne of the Priestking of Ganga is now surprisingly easy. He looks at Dlarumei, smiling indulgently.