Chapter 20 Rage On!!!
Copyright © 2003 by the players of Emerald Sphere of Sighs.

From: Game Master [2002-11-12 22:19:10]
Subject: Next!!!
As it were, Jenge, Almodhim and Nesh were the next three to make the journey followed by three sets of guards and then a large number of slaves. Deshnah was the first to ask if objects by themselves could be transported and it was Ssrivan who made the conjecture that items carried on a person would go through but an item in and of itself was not able to be brought through the nexus point. This would leave many of the larger items behind and Ssrivan made a short lament for the cumbersome lumber and means of comfortable travel that would not continue with the party. Though they had served the party well, their time had come and they were stacked neatly off to one side of the large chamber, along with several other large items. The remaining slaves and guards would be heavily draped with all manner of "necessities" as they were transported through the nexus point
to the hut in the deep cavern.

The room you arrive in is simple. There is no furniture and the floor is just simply dirt. Looking around outside there is a beautiful bit of scenery. It is the bottom of the cavern that you had seen from above, and when you step out of the hut you can smell the fresh air that the plants are providing. The waterfall fills the air with a bit of moisture and a wonderful sound. The constant rush of water seems to drown out footsteps and other, softer sounds, though speaking is easily understood. Three by three you all arrive in the hut and move out onto the sand just outside the building where you meet up with the rest of your party as they wait for you. Finally Hrissu, Orun and the last of the guards exit the hut and join the rest of you one the sand outside by the water.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-13 09:26:51]
Subject: Fine kettle of ... well, it looks like fish
Shih walks back to the hut to confer with his companions. Opening his arms expansively ...

"Welcome to our custom-build paradise." :)

"Beware, all is not as it seems. The water is a larger version of the fountains above, probably used to power this area. Also, recall in the first pedestal room the illusory walls through which we passed. Those walls were maintained by the mechanical boxes of the ancients. They created, for all intents and purposes, solid walls. Some of the scenery that we see around us is no more or less real. The water, hut, sand, and stone path are real. Other things I'm less certain of. I have not yet found the device that projects this illusion."

"I had thought to try disenchantment to momentarily destablize the illusion and possibly detect the location of the projector. However, it occurred to me that this solid illusion is covering something and that something, once released when the illusion goes away, might attack us. I would want all of our companions prepared for such an attack before we attempt this."

"Dlarumei, is your specialized training in demonology useful in commanding demons to be gone? From what I've seen in the past, I suspect that it is not, requiring extensive preparation. There are demons who could destroy us as easily as we do a dri fly. While imprisoning such a one would be difficult, I suspect that it would not have been beyond the capabilities of those who created what we've seen so far."

"Also, the colors we've seen so far continue to bother me. Red, green and blue have too much symbolism for me! We must be extremely careful."

"Churisan and Orun, this might be an excellent time for one of you to assemble the metal spear. I was not jesting before when I said that it would be my weapon of choice against a greater demon. It's an artifact of amazing power!"

"From what I've seen, I'm guessing that all of this was created during the latter days. Enough technology was still known suggesting that the aristocracy could still read the ancient languages. However, those of lesser standing would have devolved to almost a tribal existance. The fact that Dlarumei can read some of their writing suggests it's probably not older. I'm also aware that this has been an area of particular focus for Dlarumei and her father."

"To build what we've seen, there would need to be teaching machines to maintain the overall educational level. The real find from this trip could be those machines. I'm very interested in searching any area here that would have been hidden from all but the aristocracy! Please understand, I don't consider this to be a tangent to our current objective. Clearly from all that we've seen, understanding that language could give us critical clues that we would otherwise miss."

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-13 19:58:26]
Subject: Calling the Kettle
Jenge the Scholar takes in his new surroundings with wide eyes. He turns slowly in place, drinking it all in, a quiet smile on his face. Eventually, he turns to Shih and says, "Learned Priest, can you tell us where you have trod, and what surfaces lie yet undisturbed by our perambulations? Also, have you inspected the tubeway and portal, yonder?" He slowly spreads his hands in gratitude.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-11-14 06:10:20]
Subject: Not all there...
"My companions, we are missing Adzul and at least one slave. I suggest we take a head count to be sure of who came through and who did not." Urutlen then goes into his high alert, focused state.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-14 09:22:31]
Subject: What a waste
Shih looks at Urutlen and quietly shakes his head at the loss of a potentially exceptional mrur. Ah well :)

Turning to Jenge:

"Noble Jenge, the difficulty I have is that I'm not as learned as I need to be. :) An observation from my many years of travel with worshipers of Ksarul. I suspect the same is true of those who worship your Lord Thumis. Still, I learn what I can and have seen much. My strengths lie in other areas."

"To your question, I have traveled around the hut, looked briefly at the tubeway entrance and ventured out onto the grass. I have not examined that entrance closely or ventured inside; I'm concerned about ru'un. What I truly want to investigate is further out. Those rocks, I suspect, do not exist. Before casting disenchantment, I was hoping that you or some of our other mages could better discern what's what."

"I'm also interested to learn the potential effects of the spear on these illusions, though I dread their potential effect if we get too close."

Shih looks on expectantly.
From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-11-14 09:27:41]
Subject: getting ready
Almodhim, having been transported, is shaking off the effects. She has heard of the demons lurking, and she keeps her hand near her sword just in case her expertise is needed.....

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-11-14 11:12:31]
Subject: Set up time
Orun quickly sets up a guard perimeter around the party. He moves the slaves off to behind the hut to protect them in case of any danger and to get them out of the way if action is necessary. He also sets them to the task of packing up what is left of the supplies that made it through the porthole. Consolidating and redistributing items to be carried. At the end of his instructions, he has a slave bring out the case with the metal spear and set it down in the center of the host of party members.

"As you requested Shih, thought I would stress using extreme caution. Adzul knew what it was to be used for, but does anyone else? Perhaps you, priestess of the Ksarul."

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-14 11:56:20]
Subject: Priestess indeed, you know my name!
"Contrary to popular belief," Dlarumei growls under her breath to Orun. " I do not have a working knowledge of every artifact that is housed in Monru."

She then steps forward towards the rest of the party and continues her answer in a much calmer and hospitable tone. "I must apologize that I was unaware of this being gifted to Adzul, thought I have seen this case many times in the artifact storage chamber near the Azure Sphere, I must confess that I knew not what it contained. Nor have I ever been made aware of such a device or how it works. Perhaps Adzul knew of its existence and requested it of the elders? Perhaps it plays a roll in our quest at some point? I have no answers nor do I even have any guesses." She then makes an apologetic bow and then looks around to the group for any other comments.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-14 17:58:02]
Subject: By Any Other Name

The former temple leader is almost trembling as he gazes at the case set before them. In a hushed tone, he says "Metal spear?" His voice is so soft and breathy you have difficulty hearing it over the sussurations of the waterfall. He takes a very small step forward.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-14 20:33:29]
Subject: Priests and cases
"Ser Jenge, I wouldn't advise touching the case if I were you--it has a distinct dislike of those of an ethos it doesn't approve of. As I seem not to be in opposition to it, I suspect you would be, and the testing of that would probably have fatal consequences, giving our servitor of the worm another potential mrur, a fate I am sure would not appeal to one of your learning."

"As to the spear's uses, the correct time for them will become apparent once we have studied more of the ancients' workings here, unless, of course, you believe you know something of use, in which case, that knowledge would be good proof of your utility to this group. In any case, Shih, I wouldn't advise its use against the illusions, as I suspect the effects would spook our slaves so badly that we'd spend days trying to round them up in stygian darkness, and as we wouldn't find them all, losing much of their capability to carry our supplies. Sometimes the testing of limits is not a good thing."

Ssrivan then awaits the priest's and Shih's responses.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-14 21:49:02]
Subject: Large blue oyster with feet ...
Shih purses his lips ...

"Ssrivan ... where would the slaves run? If they try to swim, they'll soon become unintended sacrifices to the Flame Lord, Vimuhla. The only cave in here is the tubeway. At worst, they might think about running away once we arrive at a more agreeable location."

"As to the ethos affinities of the spear, this is the first I've heard of it. When I examined the spear earlier, I simply sensed that it was an aggressive conduit of extra-planer energy. If a mage were to be stupid enough to have a spell active while holding the spear, then I suspect that that mage's pedhetl would be sucked through the spear. Ssrivan, would you please elaborate on what you've learned about this spear? Your reticence in this regard could get someone killed."

Shih looks critically at Ssrivan waiting for a reply. He is also waiting expectantly for the pyrotechnic display as the lone remaining slave gives the fountain a try. I wonder if he'll be smart enough to grab three dippers. I wonder if anyone would like to wager about whether he comes through a charred corpse?

From: Deshnah [2002-11-15 04:02:02]
Subject: Patrolling the perimeter
Desh wanders away from the central group discussing the metal spear, and wanders gradually around the perimeter set up by the guards. He spends time surveying the terrain and features beyond their limits as if trying to identify any sounds beyond the water created noise.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-15 11:43:15]
Subject: Just a few moments
Dlarumei kneeling over the case speaks while continuing her examination of the object.

"I must side with the noble locksmith over this issue Shih. The power of this object seems to be rather great, if I am interpreting some of these runes correctly. This one is the symbol for strength." She points to one of the runes on the case. "This one is for Patience and these two combine for destruction. There is one for calm and for peace and for exchange. The others I can not recognize well enough to be certain of their meanings."

She continues searching the exterior of the case, her hands now skipping across the surface of the case, her fingers finding the cracks and depressions, reading the textures of the carved relief.

"Several of these runes around the seam of the case hold magical powers, which I feel, are what protect us from the energies of the object held within. I think that they also protect the object from being noticed through various means, and that is why none of us knew of its existence before Adzul's demise. I also think that Shih's hypothesis about a mage's Pedhetl being used by the spear is correct. Though I am not sure that the experience would be a positive one."

She grows silent yet continues to examine the case.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-15 20:38:17]
Subject: Shih's answer
"Shih, it would be good to remember that there were three orientations of those who made these places and that the devices they created/used seemed to be used in concert, or at a minimum as balances to each other. This spear is definitely something of theirs, as evidenced by the writing on the case, which is in the same script as the script on the walls of the great hall, and by the murals themselves, where I am almost sure that one plate showed it in the hands of one of these ancients."

"As to its affinities, did you have any difficulty opening the case? I thought not. I opened it without effort, though it was obviously locked beforehand, a fact you may not have even noticed unless you were looking for that specific effect when you opened the case. As it showed obvious preference for those who followed the footsteps of the original owners/users, my conjecture is that those in positions of theological opposition to them would be in a much more precarious position when attempting to handle either the case or the spear--and I, for one, would not like to lose a member of the party to a ravening vortex of untamed pedhetl just to prove to you that such would be a likely effect on an unsuspecting follower of Stability."

"As to why you don't know these things already, I went straight to my rest after completing my examinations of the Great Hall, which was also the place where each of these gems of information settled into their places in my mind. Since you were long gone on your explorations of the rest of the tunnels when I awoke, this would be the first time where such information could be imparted on the group as a whole, without my having to explain it several times, and without the synergy that comes from many minds dissecting a nugget of information together."

"Thank you for your further inputs Dlarumei, and I welcome any additional light the rest of you could shed on these conjectures--especially you Jenge, as this spear seems to have kindled a most avaricious light in your eyes. What is it you know or suspect about such a thing? I ask for a second time, as your readiness to share what you know with us is an important determinant of your ultimate acceptance in the group."

Ssrivan then inclines his head in the direction of Shih, respectfully awaiting his response while keeping an eye on Jenge.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-16 23:12:30]
Subject: A Big Stick

The Priest of Thumis' attention is drawn inexorably from the case before him to the man who is speaking. Jenge's expression changes somewhat, his eyes becoming hard, his jaw set. He waits for Ssrivan to finish. Then he waits a beat, and finally, replies as follows.

"Craftsman Ssrivan, your concern does you credit, no doubt. Nonetheless, perhaps it would be more proper for you to refrain from the use of such terms as 'avaricous light,' at least when referring to my person. Further, I judge your phrase 'proof of utility,' and most especially your alusion to a process of 'acceptance in the group' as, shall we say, inappropriate." At that, he turns slightly away so as to keep Ssrivan in his peripheral vision. He continues, addressing his fellow priests.

"Most Holy Brethren, indeed I know somewhat that I would share with you, and certainly concerning the Metal Spear. But as your craftsman has so clearly stated, my position in your expedition is 'uncertain.' Apparently. Perhaps we need to settle this, now." He bows formally to each priest as accorded by their relative stations. No more, no less. With an eyebrow raised, he asks "Who leads this expedition, and who sponsors it? I will express my formal thanks, and then we may discuss who will aid whom, and what our goals are, either separate or jointly." With dignity, he folds his arms.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-17 01:44:01]
Subject: Ruminations
Shih cocks his head back and forth clearly trying to recall the exact sequence of events.

"Ssrivan, as I recall, you examined the spear shortly after me. I did not assemble the spear or touch its pieces. What I saw with perception of the energies and felt when my hand neared the metal suggested that I would die if I touched it. Please understand, I've cast spells with metal nearby and have almost lost my life as a result. I've also seen metal so attuned to magical energy that it could be carried. This magnificent spear is beyond any prior experience. When I said aggressive conduit, I meant that I believe that the spear would leave me a dead husk were I to touch it while a spell was active. It might even kill me if I simply touch it, though I doubt that since my slaves put the pieces away in the box after my examination. What the spear would do with my magic I'm only now hearing. Also, I somehow missed the drawing on the wall with the spear."

"I did not notice that the box was locked or the effect you mention. If you're correct though, then the simple and safe way to test your statement Ssrivan is to have Jenge try to open the box. He should not be able to do so."

Shih bows to Ssrivan ...

"Ssrivan, I've traveled with enough worshipers of Ksarul to respect the accuracy of your statements. Some of my best friends are worshipers of Ksarul. I have a reasonably good understanding of what someone of less than 10th circle is capable of. Those abilities have saved my life many times. I know that what you have learned about the spear you might not be able to put into words. This limitation has always puzzled me, but I have learned to accept it."

"Like the rest of this group Ssrivan, I've come to respect your keen gestalt perception. I now appreciate that the spear needs to be used at the right moment to achieve our goal. From what you've said though, is it reasonable to assume that someone must give up their life in order to power the spear?"

"My hope is that if the illusion around us is disrupted and we are attacked afterwards, then we have weapons of sufficient power to deal with whatever is uncovered."

Shih looks to the Livyani Priest.

"As someone with extensive knowledge of demons, how effective would you be if we were so attacked?"

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-11-17 17:14:14]
Subject: A recitation
Chúrisan joined the group of priests in time to hear a bit of the exchange regarding the spear, and Jenge's formal query. Facing Ssrivan he asked "Is the spear only such a danger to sorcerers? I suffered no ill effects from opening the case when I first found it."

After Shih finished, Chur responded to Jenge:
"The expedition is sponsored by the learned and noble Darmkula Ba'ascha, a high priest of Ksarul in the city of Monru, and Elder of the Clan of the Cloak of Azure Gems. Our understanding is that he acted on behalf of a number of leading scholars in Monru, and that there was considerable cooperation among temples. Hrissu Metumel of Golden Sunburst Clan, Neshkriuma Kharsama of Great Stone, Ssrivan Tlokhar of Dark Fear, Kunur Chettukeng of Dark Water, myself, Adzul Ogeado of Jeweled Mace, Deshnah, and a warrior named Vrodlan Miuz, were all recruited by Darmkula by mystic means, and brought to Monru to start the expedition. We were commissioned to retrieve the artifact called the Emerald Sphere of Sighs. Vrodlan and Adzul were killed along the way, and Kunur was obliged to leave us when we neared the City of Sarku. Near Monru we rescued Almodhim Harisaya of Red Sword Clan, whose traveling companions were slaughtered by demons of Sarku. We found Urutlen in the Underworld near the City of Sarku, where he had apparently been obliged to take refuge. Most recently we met Shih Nacunya of Jade Bone clan, who was sent to join us by our absent companion Kunur. Dlarumei Ba'ascha of Cloak of Azure Gems, Orun Vu'urtesh of Blade Raised High, and the Nameless One (he gestures towards the Livyani) have been our guides from the beginning, and I think you may look to Lady Dlarumei as our leader, for she is of the clan and lineage of our noble patron."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-17 22:32:03]
Subject: Agape
Shih arches his eyebrows and smiles to hear Churisan's description of our quest so plainly laid out.

Though Jenge could be a tremendous asset to our effort, the oath I took suggests that all will attack him if he choses not to join our quest. As the ones most likely to initiate hostility, Shih watches Dlarumei and the Livyani Priest for clues how this will go. He also casually positions himself so that he can attack decisively without killing others.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-18 07:06:27]
Subject: Listening to the introductions...
Desh approaches the party having wandered around the perimeter formed by the guards.  He approaches Churisan and speaks quietly to him , following which he hands him some papers.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-18 11:14:45]
Subject: Oh my... oops
Dlarumei puts the case aside and stands slowly, first inclining her head to Churisan and then bowing deeply to Jenge.

"Most Noble Priest of Thumis, I must apologize to you and admit my embarrassment of needing the correction from Churisan. His Lan actions show me my own lack of civility and caring, which are mandates for one who would co lead this assemblage. No offence to you, most generous Churisan, but to be reminded of my duties by a warrior of Karakan when I should be setting the example does cause me to reflect harshly on my performance here. I apologize to you Noble Jenge for being so engrossed in the mundane that I have let slip that which is so important to us in this troubled time, our dependence on civility and openness as members of a higher calling. All that which Churisan has outlined to you is true and real, and our cause is just and very secretive. There are many who would go to great lengths to stop us, and I believe that is why Noble Shih is so concerned with your intentions. Not that the followers of Sarku are suspicious by nature." She interjects this last statement as a means to add some levity to the situation.

"We have all taken it upon ourselves, with the added incentive of our clans being generously gifted many items of our own expressions, to complete this cause; the cause to find the Emerald Sphere of Sighs. I know that you were accomplishing your own personal tasks when you were spirited away from where you were, and we must also consider the confusion and strangeness of what has happened to you. But I would extend to you a partnership in our cause that will bring you and your clan and temple tribute for your efforts as well as an explanation for your absence and safe passage back to the lands above. I offer this to you not only to be generous but as a selfish leader who recognizes the gifts and wisdom that a follower of Thumis in your position would bring to our expedition. For me, the only oath that I would require would be your word that you would join with us and assist us in our endeavor, which I promise is of the utmost importance to many and an extremely Lan venture as well."

Dlarumei, in a effort not to drag this out for too long, bows respectfully once again to Jenge and then once to Churisan before standing in silent anticipation for Jenge's response or questions.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-18 16:14:38]
Subject: Decisions decisions
Shih smiles at Dlarumei's jest ...

"Jenge, as a seeker of knowledge, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about a culture and devices not seen since the latter days. I believe them to be that old. You will acquire knowledge that cannot be otherwise obtained. If even some of my conjectures are right, then certain important knowledge of the ancients that has been lost to us will be revived."

"The eclectic nature of this group vouches the accuracy of Dlarumei's entreaty. Please join us."

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-11-18 16:49:30]
Subject: demurrage
Chúrisan quietly responded to Dlarumei:
"Lady, you are dzáren voqosónz (priestess of high rank). It is lán for a person of lesser and appropriate rank speak to the noble priest. I apologize if I have spoken too frankly, but under the circumstances (he waved his hand around), it seems unnecessary to keep many secrets."

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-18 19:25:12]
Subject: J'accepte

As first one and then more of the companions speak, the scholar priest's eyebrows twitch. He bows neatly to Dlarumei, to Shih, and to Churisan, indicating gratitude with the tilt of his head.

"Most Noble Lady Dlarumei Ba'ascha, of Cloak of Azure Gems, your group's goals are not so far afield from my own. And I owe you a debt, for my options were limited until you came upon me and provided succor. I shall not forget." He clasps his hand emphatically.

"You speak of honor, tribute to my clan and temple. The Most Wise Lord Shih hi Nacunya of the Domed Tomb speaks of knowledge that men have sought for long and long. For all these reasons, I must accept your offer and join with you, lending you my aid. I am honored, and you have the oath you seek, without reservation." Jenge folds his hands together in a graceful sequence that can only be ceremonial. "By the honor of my clan, by the trust of my temple, I do join my goals to those described by Lady Dlarumei Ba'ascha."

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-18 19:48:29]
Subject: off we go then
Dlarumei turns to Jenge once more and says,

"The eclectic nature of this group, as Shih so aptly put it, is one of the reasons why we will succeed. Adding the wisdom and logic of a Priest of Thumis only strengthens our abilities and gives us even more of an advantage. If you so desire, noble Jenge, I will be more than happy to fill you in on all the minor details once we are in a less precarious situation. As for now I believe that there are those who have concerns about this place. For the time being, welcome and may our decisions today benefit us in our tomorrows."

Dlarumei then turns to Churisan.

"Noble Worshiper of Karakan, I thank you for your thoughts, but I am quite proud to have you in our midst and appreciate your comments. I am sure that you frankness and since of appropriate measure is only but one of the many reasons why you were chosen by the elders for this journey. I am sure that it would also be the reason why the guards feel so secure in your leadership. There is no offence taken from any who would speak for the betterment of our task or our members."

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-18 21:19:58]
Subject: Spears R Us
"As to the spear itself, Shih, I am pretty sure no one needs to die to hold it. If Churisan were to try and wield it, it would likely not harm him--nor would it help him. If any of the rest of you with sorcerous power were to touch it--and not be aligned with my Refulgent Blue Lord, the results would be both instantaneous and disastrous for you. I suspect that I could wield it--though not as a spear, for I have no expertise in the arts of war. I am also reasonably sure that its functions are much more complex than simply sticking it into some target to give them the embracing kiss of an impaling stake."

"And as to avarice, Ser Jenge--as a seeker of knowledge, I would expect no lesser emotion to touch your mind under these circumstances. What greater joy is there than tweaking out bits of useful information from the past for future gain--and that IS the avarice of the scholar. You may couch things in more gentle terms, but I read them as they are. It is good that you accepted the offer so graciously offered by the Noble Dlarumei, your loss would have been a waste of potentially useful information. You say you have knowledge relating to this device, yet you have yet to share it with the rest of us. In this, I cannot in good faith relent in my pursuit of knowledge, for lack of those details may be the difference between life and death for one or more members of this group at a moment when we can least afford to lose them. I ask a third time for what you know, now that your position in this group has been 'settled' by common agreement."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-18 23:30:52]
Subject: Puzzles abound
Shih unconsciously holds the bag under his tunic. Releasing it, he turns to Ssrivan:

"Ssrivan, I have seen devices dedicated to a number of Gods. I still find it extremely puzzling that that spear should have been in the possession of Adzul, a worshiper of Belhanu. I will not think uncharitably of the dead. In our present circumstance, we may never learn the reason of it."

"Jenge, welcome to our team. I'm as interested as my noble friend in hearing your thoughts about this spear and the illusion around us. Also, may I ask what circle (ooc: approx 1/2 level) you have attained in the sorcerous arts within your temple."

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-11-19 11:20:49]
Subject: Ingress and Egress?
"Noble scholars, before you begin your studies, please help us establish how we may either return the way we came or go forward. Should demons appear, we may need to depart in haste.

I see no means of returning, and the only path leads to that glowing tube. I have heard of ancient "tubeways" that allowed one to travel beneath the earth. Is that one? How does it work?"

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-19 14:43:14]
Subject: Ding ding ding ... right in one
"Noble warrior, that is indeed a tubeway. While I know the steps to summon a tubeway car and the mechanism to install a disk and set its destinations, how it operates remains knowledge lost in time. If you observe closely, you'll quickly learn what you need to know."

"We're in a difficult position. I spoke of the need of the aristocracy to preserve their position by guarding teaching devices. Of equal importance I suspect would be the prerogatives that go with using the tubeway. As your question pointed out, knowledge of how to use them would not have been broadly shared. However, for those with the knowledge, still it might have been considered a privilege to use them; one conferred by that same aristocracy. It is no different today. I will be surprised if there are no guardians to prevent unauthorized tubeway use beyond the portal. Tampering with that door may also release any traps on this side as well."

"As you correctly pointed out, there should be a mechanism to return from whence we came. One of the questions though is where one would return to. Suppose it's simply a matter of three individuals entering the hut and standing on the spots where we arrived. We have no idea where we'd go if it worked."

"Though it is high risk, we are on the path set for us. There are no safe paths, including those behind us. Let us continue."

"Again, I propose that, as a group, we all focus on penetrating the illusions around us. In my opinion, that is where we should begin."
From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-19 20:06:11]
Subject: List, List, O List!

The follower of Thumis takes his lecture stance once again. He waits for quiet and attention. He waits...

"Good. Patience is a virtue." This with a small smile. "Everything in its proper time." His eyes scan the group.

"Now, in my team's studies of these ruins (meaning the ruins in the realm of the Nyenu, which as we now know have a 'connection' with our present location), I learned somewhat of this spear. Of course, I couldn't know that I would chance across it so soon, but it seems we are guided by the gods." He bows his head and says, ritually, "Thumis be praised." He raises his head again, perhaps looking slightly out-of-sorts that he hadn't heard an answering recitation from his students, and continues.

"Allow me to be more specific. The spear was depicted in several modes. Oh, and I think we can safely say that it is not a 'spear,' but rather, a rod of power. Now, as to the modes, it may exist in its component segments, as you know. It is also used in conjunction with a Sphere, likely the very Sphere you have been seeking. And finally," and here he looks unmistakably at Ssrivan, "it is used in ritual worship of a goddess not of Pavar's Scrolls!"

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-19 22:51:20]
Subject: Telltales
Shih turns to the LP and Dlarumei to immediately observe their reaction to Jenge's statement.

"Jenge, do you speak of one of the Pariah Gods?"

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-20 19:42:40]
Subject: Lubdub
Jenge turns to answer Shih: "I do!"

His gaze roams over the group, watching, watching...

"One of those whose worship must be stamped out! Who have no place here in our world! Burned out root and branch!"

Now he stands up straighter, squares his shoulders and says, in a quiet voice, "And I know how to identify her worshippers..."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-20 22:37:22]
Subject: Ixna on the sclosurede
Shih rocks back, taking in Jenge's statement. He smiles innocuously and quickly walks away from Jenge as though he just remembered an errand. The idea is to avoid being caught in any area effect spells. At the appropriate range to still hear what Jenge says, he stops. He also continues to watch the Livyani Priest and Dlarumei for their reactions. If he can catch Jenge's eye without drawing the attention of others, he glares and tries to signal that he MUST STOP! If ineffective, he prepares as best he can for what may come.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-11-21 13:24:25]
Subject: must be a ritual...
Churisan watches and listens curiously as the priests dance.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-21 13:28:36]
Subject: Pardon me?
Dlarumei takes a step away from the rest of the party gathered in the center of the area, pulls her shoulders back raisings her arms to just above her waist. Her fingers dance with ritual signing, and she says quite sternly and pointedly.

"Then tell us now, Jenge, so that we may deal with the issue! We don't have time to play games here or now, and this intellectual conversation would be best put off till we find a safer place to discuss things of this nature! I am not at all at ease with Shih's fears of the triad, to begin with, and now you speak of the Pariah gods as well! If there is reason to believe that we are in danger, Speak now! Or let us table this till later! I fear that we are in no position to linger in this area, and all the time we spend standing here, allows us only greater vulnerability."

It is obvious that she is reacting to the tension now presiding over this group, and is taking defensive measures as she surveys the area and the group within it.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-11-21 17:40:12]
Subject: Huh? What??
Orun, looking both a bit shocked and concerned by Dlarumei's tone and comments, straightening himself in his stance he casts a very subtle glance around the chamber and at the party members. He creates a pretty convincing fake sneeze and then returns a small cloth to under his belt on his right side. He then, very casually lets his hand and arm hang loosely on that side, where you notice him slowly fingering the stock of his heavey, loaded, crossbow.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-21 17:44:06]
Subject: She doth protest too loudly
Those psychically sensitive know that Shih is also drawing in energy. He is doing this while holding the holy symbol in the bag around his neck and praying fervently to Sarku.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-21 20:51:38]
Subject: Drifting
Ssrivan makes sure he has drifted to a position where he is not in the direct line of fire of any of the wizards three. He will also signal his scribe to his side, as his curiosity seems to have been piqued again--this time by the stream.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-22 03:02:40]
Subject: Watching carefully
Desh, stays close to Churisan, while they speak. Once their conversation ends he looks again at the stream and also the stones beyond their perimeter.

"Has anyone else thought this all appears to be very strange? "Asks Desh Dryly.

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-11-22 10:06:21]
Subject: feeling tense
Almodhim has noticed the change in "temperature" in the company and stays ready to spring in a moment's notice. "Something's not feeling quite right here," she mutters to herself.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-22 18:54:34]
Subject: The Nature of Wisdom
The Priest of The Lord of Wisdom appears to have been lost in thought, perhaps, but now he inclines his head very slightly, his eyes bright, his arms slightly extended. He takes a quiet breath, and says in a more even tone than previously, "Perhaps I should say, rather, that I may have knowledge of a way to identify worshippers of this particular goddess. An insight, if you will. But our Wise Leader, the Lady Dlarumei, presents a very real consideration; our current predicament. It is meet that we take our conversation elsewhere. It was poor judgement for me to have brought up this topic at such a time. I ask your forgiveness, or at least, your understanding."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-22 21:46:38]
Subject: Shall we gather at the river ...
Shih focuses on Dlarumei and then, without turning his body, looks into the water and then in the different direction that Almodhim is focused. He is quivering with so much energy that even those without magic probably sense something. He turns slightly to shield a portion of his face from visibility from the water and quickly winks at Dlarumei. He then focuses intently on her, waiting for the first move ...

OOC: If anyone casts, this is going to be like throwing burning oil into a room filled with black powder. It's weenie roasting time. :)

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-11-23 12:51:28]
Subject: Realization
Almodhim, having observed the behavior of both Shih and Dlarumei, that they wouldn't be fighting one another. She uses her sense as a warrior, very dicreetly, to determine what other danger could be lurking in this place. Her senses tell her to keep alert. Her senses tell her that something might be lurking in the area of the trees. She discreetly readies her body for any fight that might ensue.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-11-24 02:30:14]
Subject: BOOOMMM!!!
Dlarumei, through clinched teeth grunts out, "I feel that I cannot withstand this insult any longer! Prepare yourselves for my offering!"

With that her hands raise above her head and she stands tall and straight. It almost seems as though she has grown about a foot as her darkened figure takes aim at Jenge. Then, quicker than anyone could think to react to, she springs into the air, about 5 meters high, twisting a full 180 degrees, opens her arms and speaks terrible sounds. An energy burst flashes out over the water as she casts the Obsidian Obelisk.

From: Game Master [2002-11-24 02:35:12]
Subject: Events unfold
Dlarumei's casting of this spell in this magically rich environment produces a much larger result that even she could have imagined. The energies released fly rapidly towards her intended target, as the recoil sends her hurling backwards through the air and straight through the roof of the hut behind her.

Some watch as pieces of wood shatter and spread out through the air, others watch as a 20-foot wide, 10-foot thick Obsidian Obelisk erupts from the water. As it shoots upward, you can tell that it has hit something, and that object is carried up, out of the water and slammed against the side of the cavern behind it. The entire cavern shakes and several small rocks fall from century long perches when the object is pinned against the wall. The strike has caused part of the object, previously concealed by invisibility, to be revealed, its dark stone-like skin marred and pierced by the obelisk. You can see a part of an enormous arm, the rest still concealed by invisibility, swing wildly at the Obsidian spike, striking it with a yet invisible weapon that it wields. Small flakes of Obsidian chip off with each strike and fly off into the surrounding area but are too far away to pose any danger to the party yet. You can also notice a thick dark liquid sliding down the face of the obelisk from where the point has entered the object.

Just as this happens Almodhim sets off an ear piercing alarm and points to the wooded area where quite a few (approx 30) small, bipedal, naked creatures charge towards the group, their spears lowered with their copper tips reflecting oddly the blue cast of the water.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-11-24 21:43:07]
Subject: Up and at 'em
Neshkriuma responds to Almodhim's alarm, rallying the guards into a defensive posture, set to repel the charge of the naked pygmies.

"Archers, fire as you can! Ware the Lady Almodhim! All others, stand here and protect the tubeway!"

Nesh moves forward a bit to keep the pygmies away from the crossbowmen, who will require a few seconds to load.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-25 02:10:53]
Subject: Swings towards the wood...
Desh,
Begins to mumble and incant as he watches the attackers emerge from the wood...

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-11-25 07:20:10]
Subject: Here's, um.... something in your eye.
Urutlen starts plucking off the attackers as quickly as he is able, starting with the most dangerous looking ones first. You can see a glazed look in his eye and a slight smirk on his lips as he is finally going to be of service to the party.

From: Game Master [2002-11-25 12:42:41]
Subject: And this continues.
Arrows sing past the front guard from behind them, and in the blink of an eye, four of the charging creatures fall. Two of them clutching at the shaft protruding from their heads and two simply drop like tossed sacks of grain. Urutlen's aim is precise and lethal; it would appear, as he nocks another arrow to be launched.

Several other creatures are brought down by crossbow bolts. The guards pull down three of the charging groups leaders and the single shot from Orun's heavy crossbow passes through the first creature and lodges into the chest of one directly behind him. With astonished grimaces the two fall and die. Even with nine of their host gone in a matter of moments, the small spear carrying creature press on. Perhaps even more intently than before, picking up their pace and screeching loudly, some bizarre war cry.

The interesting Shaman provides the next obstacle as he casts a strange spell that produces a strange, spreading, liquid two meter deep and 15 meters wide. This, stripe, if you will, lands a good 15 meter before your party and but a few scant feet in front of the charging creatures. The first creatures to encounter the substance stop dead in their tracks as the liquid grabs them and holds them secure. They fall forward, due to the momentum of their run and land, face first, into the substance, where they thrash around wildly, becoming only more bogged down as they try to escape. The creatures following the front line use their fallen brethren as stepping-stones and, leaping from their backs, almost clear the barrier. Each getting one or two feet stuck in the substance, they run their spears into the ground, turn and catch the next wave of creatures as they leap off the backs of their fallen. Like any good circus show, those being caught are there for only a brief second as they quickly are tossed up, onto the sand, and continue charging the party. Like a well-rehearsed children's program, the creatures barely miss a step as wave after wave of the attackers continue to leap across the void and approach.

Two guard archers pick off two of the catchers. As their stout bodies fall, face first, into the liquid, and their abilities to catch and toss now seem to be gone. Others in the party notice that the two have only become more valuable as a landing pad for those who leap across the barrier, enabling the creatures to advance more rapidly.

Nesh brings the guards with shields to bear creating a small wedge of protection with the polearmsmen directly behind those with shields. Orun, sword drawn, stands to the right side of the wedge, at its base, ready to hack up any and all that you try to skirt around the defensive parameter. Almodhim has taken up residence on the opposite side, though her actions and attitude would state that she might not be able to stay their long as the blood lust crazed look revisits her face.

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-11-25 17:44:26]
Subject: To Battle!!!!!
Almodhim's prayers have been answered! All of her pent up energy is released as she charges. She shouts a warning to all the party: "Beware of the copper tipped spears! They could be poisonous!!" She proceeds to swipe her sword through all enemies who have the misfortune of coming into eyesight.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-25 18:20:26]
Subject: An Evocation
The Follower of Thumis, gesticulating in bold strokes, barks out words that wrench the senses. His body arching backwards, he flexes forward as a drawn bow suddenly released. Space before him is distorted, then a roiling burst of pearlescent light expands from a pinpoint spark, whirling and spinning madly. Jenge's limbs are widespread now, and he shouts a command. The revolving disc gapes, giving glimpses of 'otherness' as it flutters and flaps its edges. It begins moving forward, towards the oncoming horde, almost yearning towards a target...

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-26 02:15:58]
Subject: KRAAAAAAA!
Shih gestures with practiced speed uttering words that suddenly amplify into an explosive concussion that rivals if not exceeds that of the obelisk. Aiming above that obsidian wall where the creature's head would be Shih casts his most powerful Hands of Kra. He is counting on its bulk to shield the walls and ceiling from distruction. The concussive backlash though, is vastly beyond anything that Shih has ever experienced from this spell, as he is blown off of his feet backwards. The terrifying thought racing through his mind as he descends is what in Sarku's name is the High Priest of The Horned One of Secrets going to unleash?!!

From: Game Master [2002-11-26 15:41:35]
Subject: And the day goes on
The air in the cavern is alive with seething and fluctuation energies. You can feel it on your skin and smell it as it drifts throughout the cavern encircling all who are present within its dark, stone walls. The small lake is glowing a bright iridescent blue and a mist, of sorts, has begun to gather around those casting evocations.

Jenge may find himself on his back, two meters back from where he cast his spell, but the ever widening, revolving disc continues to speed forward, toward the advancing creatures, its shimmering shape posing no conceivable threat apparently. As the shimmering disc begins to touch the sand, you notice that it does not push or move the sand in any fashion; rather it seems to consume it. By the time the creatures realize this, it is far too late, and as the disc passes through the whole left side of the advancing horde, they seem to simply disappear. Those who tried to evade the disc unsuccessfully writhe on the ground, their bodies missing whatever was unable to get out of the way of the discs edges. The disc continues forward past the horde and into the tree filled area, cutting a circular swath through the plush greenery and continuing into the rock side of the cavern. After it has made a six-meter circumference hole in the caverns side, you lose track of it, though it would appear that it continues on, you lose track as your vantage point is rather poor and there are still several other items to which your more immediate attention is required.

Apparently Jenge's aim was good, as the area that the disc passed through seemed also to be the area where the creatures were emanating. The 30 or so fresh recruits now choose the trough left by the disc as a way around the sticky mass laid down by Deshnah. Almodhim is there to meet them as they emerge from the trough, accompanied by Orun, who, when Almodhim advanced, jumped to join her. The two of them slashing through one creature after another as they pop up in attack from the discs impression. Precise arrow shots thread their way between and around the two warriors as Urutlen knocks down the overflow ratio to keep the creatures funneling straight into the whirling blades of Almodhim and Orun. His speed, a blur, as arrow after arrow is loosed from his bow in rapid succession, all finding their target with prejudicial precision. You can see a slight smirk cross his lips, as he seems to be calling the shots before he lets death fly.

After seeing that there are those who would advance without thought of self-preservation, Neshkriuma sends out a battle cry and advances the guard, full tilt, towards the remains of the creatures still crossing the Deshnah trap. His speed and force overwhelming the first creatures he meets as he casually slaps their spears aside with his blade and spins himself into the crowd separating head from shoulder and limb from trunk. The polearmsmen gather several twisting, thriving creatures on their pikes before abandoning them for swords and axes. Shields crash into creatures and swords emerge from between them to stab at those creatures pinned back by the shields into the rest of the advancing horde. The creatures, strong and determined to this point, break rank in panic and start to run in any direction where arrow, spear, axe or sword is not found.

During this exchange Shih congers up, and lets fly an evocation with such great power, that even he cannot hide the expression of surprise that fills his eyes. An enormous booming sound erupts from in front of his hands along with flames and smoke so thick that many of the slaves believe the end of creation is at hand. Though Shih had anticipated recoil he is still amazed as its force. Luckily the ground falls away from him as he blasts through the air backwards, his heals dragging helplessly over the sand, where he comes to a rather abrupt stop against the hard stonewall of the cavern. His hair and robes singed and his back slammed hard against the stone, Shih winces in pain as he slides down the wall to the sand below, slumping in a half conscious daze with Hrissu, unfortunately standing too close to Shih, laying beside him. Hrissu having taken a different path that ricocheted him off of the dome of protection placed over the slaves and porters by the Livyani Priest.

The explosion may have also spurred on the intensity of the guards charge as many of them have singed backsides as well.

The result of this amazing fireworks display is a bullet the size of a house heading towards the area just above the Obelisk. This Hands of Kra has yet to be rivaled in modern times, its impact most devastating, and its effects most horrid. The creature of its intended destruction was sheared away from its lower half just above where the obelisk had pinned it to the wall. Its upper half was crammed not just up against the wall like a dre fly being swatted, but into the wall itself, deep into the wall. The cavern trembles violently with the impact of the missile and many large stones fall from above. Solid rock is pushed back five meters into the cavern wall in the form of a giant hand imprint, the hand of Kra, a forever signature of the event.

Sparks and spouting fluid of several different colors can be see erupting from the remains of the creature still pinned against the wall, the rest of its body now becoming visible and hanging limply from the its mounting.

The wall hanging is not of flesh and blood but is most certainly a machine of some sort, made to resemble stone and created on an enormous scale. Upon its destruction several small doors open on the areas that would be its legs and small metal objects fly out and head for the rock pile on that far side of the cavern.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-26 16:04:25]
Subject: All for naught!
Desperately, Shih gets to his feet ignoring his pain and shortness of breath realizing that if these smaller ru'un make it to refuge, then more horrors may be visited on the group. He does his best to anticipate their destination and casts the smaller Hands of Kra before them as they near the rocks. If there is a passage there that can't be otherwise opened, he hopes that the creatures will have opened it allowing us to investigate at a later time. Shih has seen this smaller Kra spell pulp a large Dlaqo beetle. Hopefully, the natural augmentations of this chamber will produce sufficient force.

From: Hrissu hi Metumel [2002-11-26 17:10:49]
Subject: Well, how interesting!

Blinking, Hrissu surveys the chamber and the aftermath of the explosion. He cracks his knuckles and gets to the work of repairing some of the damage his compatriots have gathered to themselves. His lips move in the "Thirty-nine Eminations of Healing Energies from the Planes of Hnalla's Glory" and he reaches out to touch the nearest injured party member.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-11-26 17:57:56]
Subject: fire support
Churisan had added his arrows to the fire on the spear-carriers, and now turns to try long shots at the things in motion across the water.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-11-26 18:11:53]
Subject: Ware the metal midges!!
Nesh takes a second, between small spear carriers, to yell a warning:

Mages! Look after the metal fleas that desert yonder metal monster! They may sow the seeds of further danger!

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-11-26 19:02:12]
Subject: A Moment's Notice
With a gasp, Jenge pulls himself to his feet. He brushes his hair back from his forehead with a scratched hand. His braid has come undone. He scans the chamber, still looking a bit stunned. His attention is drawn by the flying automatons, and he draws himself into an enchanter's stance once again.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-27 02:42:16]
Subject: A change in stance ...
See's Desh tilt his body and begin once again to incant - this time his direction is obviously towards the stones...

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-27 05:37:13]
Subject: The watcher
Ssrivan is busily whispering notes to his scribe as he continues his investigations near the stream. The battle doesn't seem to phase--or even interest him, as he is occupied with other things. He does seem to be paying enough attention to avoid the swirl of battle, but that is about all.

From: Game Master [2002-11-27 10:04:05]
Subject: Deshnah's post
This was posted in the private files but I felt that it would be wonderful in the public side as well.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-27 02:44:28]
Subject: Another net...
Desh, was quite impressed by the layer of glue his first incantation produced, now he wants to see if he can help impair the access the Ruun seeks around the stones - so he plans to cast the webbing effect over the pile of stones and hope the stickiness of the webs holds the access ports closed or blocked....

A slight smile appears on Desh's face at the thought of the Warriors blood llust now being enacted onto the poor pygmies!

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-27 12:21:36]
Subject: Fizzle fizzle
Though Shih tries valiantly to cast his spell, he's more hurt than he thinks. Frustrated at his inadequacy, he leans painfully back against the wall behind him. Hopefully, someone will heal him or he will have to make the attempt as a first priority ...

From: Game Master [2002-11-27 13:06:17]
Subject: Calm before the storm.
An arrow arches out over the water from Churisan's bow, an interestingly long flight which brings much attention if for only to see what it might hit. Most eyes drawn to its flight can see the slow rotations of the fletching, as the arrow seems just to hang in the air on it incredibly slow, arching journey. Engineers are great a figuring angles and trajectories several members say out loud as the arrow strikes one of the small Ru'un on its trip to the rocks. The orb-like object bobs in the air as it is struck, sparks and small flashes of light escape from its top as the arrow bounces off its hard shell covering. Those not running down the last few creatures shake their heads in amazement at the shot and watch as the Ru'un sputters and coughs its way into the water. It's age, obviously making it weaker and its defenses perhaps gone the orb pops with a tiny burst of electrical power upon striking the surface of the lake and is gone from sight.

Deshnah, making all sorts of contortions and jesters launches out another spell. But having braced himself firmly and tempering his abilities, he remains upright as a sticky web slaps up against the rock, snaring several of the small orbs and hopefully blocking the path for the rest. His hope not realized as the remaining orbs simply choose an alternate path. Several of the small orbs pause over the rocks and with strange popping sounds thrust multiple spine type objects towards Churisan and Deshnah. Deshnah evades all but three of the spines, which strike him in leg, arm and chest, instantly robbing him of his consciousness and sending him to the ground in a heap. Churisan bats one away with his bow and ducks and twists enough that his armor takes a glancing blow from the orb, the spine protruding from his armor at a profound angle. Seeing that the spine is covered in an oily substance, he elects to remove it using a piece of cloth to cover the skin of his hands.

Shih stumbles away from the wall, trying desperately to remain on his non-responsive feet. He attempts, several times, to begin an incantation, and each time he is interrupted by the ground slapping him in the face. Until, finally, after the third fall, he elects to remain on the ground, his fading eyes fixed on the rock pile and the orbs, the look of utter frustration and pain on his face, with his hand stretched out before him its fingers pointing to the rock, poised and angry, he passes into unconsciousness.

Jenge also begins another evocation on shaky feet, but remains standing and wording some incantation for his next volley.

Hrissu, standing on shaky legs, pulls in energies and lets fly with a healing spell, enhanced so greatly by the chamber that Deshnah can be heard gasping loudly and springs to his feet, his eyes blinking with shock as he pulls the spines from his body. Shih also, stands abruptly and after shaking off some of his confusion focuses clear eyes on the rock pile and begin, again, his incantation. Dlarumei stands up from behind the hut brushing off wood pieces and straw and walks, seemingly on air, as she steps forward on the dome of protection cast by the LP. She then sits and slides down its side to the ground just behind Hrissu, thanking him, with a nod, for his assistance and continuing her stride back to the front line.

Hrissu's spell of healing may have even worked a little too well as about 50 of the previously slain small creatures pop back up, screaming and searching for weapons. Unfortunately, this divides the guards as over half had stepped through and past many of the previously dead creatures in pursuit of the few remaining. The creature, invigorated by the healing attack with vigor. Many stand and compensate for still missing limbs, while others, not able to stand, grasp at the feet and legs of the guards in an effort to bring them down to their level.

The small orbs slip, out of sight, behind the pile of stones next to the waterfall.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-11-27 18:48:36]
Subject: Interesting Observances
"In case the rest of you hadn't noticed, those rocks over there are another one of the huge Ru'un. If enough of the orbs get inside and it attacks us, things might get bad fast."

Ssrivan still hasn't seen something bad enough to follow through with his original last-ditch plan, but it still resides in his mind, just in case. The others seem to be doing a fine job of mulching the opposition, though the newly lively savages were a surprisong side effect, one requiring a bit of later thought. Ssrivan's dictation of notes to his scribe doesn't even slow down as he changes position slightly to view the rest of the action. He does stay quite close to the stream, though.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-11-27 19:06:03]
Subject: Kra though your back is aching, Kra though ...
Shih quickly surveys the freshly renewed scene of mayhem and reluctantly decides that a carpet of worms of death across half the cavern would harm as many friends as foes [but wouldn't it be glorious!]. Focusing on Ssrivan's words, Shih braces himself and again casts his largest Hands of Kra at the stones hoping to disable all of the ru'un, big and small.

An interesting thought occurs to Shih ... what if the beings that created all of this somehow stored their consciousness in those small ru'un.

From: Deshnah [2002-11-28 05:34:48]
Subject: Back on his feet...
Desh, Shakes his head in surprise and immediately pulls his Sling from his belt, to this he adds some small spiked metal bullets and begins to swing...

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-12-02 12:57:13]
Subject: block, strike
Churisan snaps orders to the guards closest to main group of the party. They form a line; dispersed now to give free play for axe and halberd use, and to try to compensate for their missing colleagues. If enough guards are present to keep the pygmies back, Chur and the archer-guards will keep shooting, and try to relieve Almodhim and Neshkriuma. If the line is too thin, they'll drop bows and unclip swords, cutting down the little wretches as they come.

From: Game Master [2002-12-02 15:28:50]
Subject: more and more
The battle for life amongst the creature is so severe that the sound of intense thunder created by Shih causes few to even notice. Those that are distracted are slain instantly and slowly sink back into the thick carpet of body fluids and renderings, which seems to grow and cause treacherous purchase for the combatants as they pour heart and soul into staying alive. The isolated island of guards furiously slashing and hacking, standing back to back, in a ring of death and destruction. Two have been lost to sea of grasping hands and charging beasts, the others fight with fevered intent in a well organized and disciplined ensemble. The remainder of the guards charge in from the fringe of the battle under Churisan's command, hacking down creature after creature as they battle to reunite themselves with their comrades.

Arrows speed from Urutlen's bow with deadly accuracy as he lets shaft after shaft loose in a most mechanical precision, lost in his trance he drills death into skull upon skull with an almost careless, competition-like repetition. Churisan's bow, cocked in the typical short-range position, launches his deadly attack as he too drills one creature after another to slow their progress and dampen their forces strength. When the company becomes too thick to shoot through, he slings his bow on his back, draws his sword and jumps into the battle swinging devastating blows with military exactness.

The Thunderclap created by Shih was the telltale sign of another monstrous spell being launched. In his well placed hast, Shih cares not for his own safety and fires his incantation without thought to his body placement, nor surroundings. His only focus was the target and a clear field of vision, unimpaired by party members, as he lets fly his second hands of Kra in mid-step. The recoil sends him back like the flash of lightning that attends the thunder, rocketing recklessly until his momentum is halted by the stone of the cavern wall. After pausing against the stones for a brief moment, his body leans forward and falls to the sand below his robes flowing around and over his tumbling and unconscious body as it makes the seven-meter drop downward. His motionless form unable to witness his spell glancing off of an invisible protective barrier and ricocheting up and off of the wall, its energies traveling like a run-away river through virgin lowlands, till finally it pins the hut up against the dome of protection in a mixture of pulverized wood and stone. The Livyani Priest noticeably pushing energies into his spell to keep it intact as the mighty hands of Kra weigh heavy on his creation. Slaves and porters cower as the pressure being placed upon the dome starts to fracture their protection. After a few moments the energies dedicated to the hands of Kra diminish and fade and the Livyani priest falls to his knees, pale with the exertions he has made to resist the spell of Shih.

On the far side of the cavern, the rock pile starts to move…


From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-02 19:08:05]
Subject: Flying Flitters
Having collected himself, observing the situation, and bracing himself against a solid surface, Jenge tenses and begins his chanting and gesturing once again. His hypnotic gestures in conjunction with his stentorian words coax power from the cavern, shaping it to his will and drawing forth the whirling, scintillating maw of the vortex. With a shout from the Sorceror-Priest, the summoning flies forward towards the moving rockpile where the flitters had converged.

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-12-02 19:46:29]
Subject: Who's next?
Almodhim, hacking with her sword and heaving with the strain, pauses quickly. She has hewn through most of her enemy and quickly glances over to see a suspicious looking rock pile. She keeps helping Orun with the enemy, but hopes to finish quickly here so that she may be of more use at the "rock pile."

From: Game Master [2002-12-03 12:56:06]
Subject: I fell into a burning ring of fire...
A burst of gray-blue light fires out of Jenge's hands as he shapes the incantation he sends looping towards the moving rock pile. The circle ever widening as it approaches its intended begins to touch lightly the waters of the cavern, and unlike the sand the water does not disappear. It does, however, send lightning flashes of blue into the air and around the spell causing the incantation to amplify and intensify itself.

The rock pile, standing erect as any man, with two legs, two arms a torso and head, of sorts, focuses on the fiery dish as it approaches. The creature, perhaps half the size of its slain brother, points both of its arms at the circle and you see several large arrow type objects fly rapidly towards the oncoming menace. They travel quickly, with flame and smoke trailing them, approaching the incantation, striking it, and then simply disappearing without a sound or trace. If the beast had a face, you are sure that you would see shock and amazement upon it at the failed attempt to destroy the approaching ring of blue flames.

The rocks move again, with surprising agility, and it appears that the beast is pushing something, though there is nothing to be seen. The whirling vortex, now shooting lightning from its fringe in all directions, does not even pause as it strikes the invisible barrier that the beast has erected. The bubble shape of the barriers outline is seen briefly as the conjured disc passes through it and towards the beast itself. With no time to fully react a third time, the monstrous pile of stones facing you, lunges to its left, in an effort to evade the gaping maw of the sizzling vortex. The size and weight of the creature, its downfall, as the, now 20 meter, ring of destruction takes its right leg and hip as it passes into the cavern wall and beyond.

The ground shakes violently when the moving pile of stones strikes it, falling into the wooded area, where trees shatter like cheep glass under the monsters mass. The missing appendage seems to cause the creature no pain, nor does it seem to dissuade it as it begins crawling towards the party, with large boulders stamping monstrous impressions in the soil. Each limb placement creating another aftershock as the beast purposefully hammers the ground on its trek.

From: Deshnah [2002-12-04 02:55:55]
Subject: A glint of metal
Catcing the eye of some in the party are the shiny objects Desh now holds in both hands.  He watches the stone figure carefully deciding on the right method of attack and where to position himself in the ensuing fight...

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-12-04 17:41:45]
Subject: Lead ballon
For those who are looking around instead of battling or watching the stone creature, they will see one priestess of Ksarul hovering about six meters off the water of the lake, her arms and hand weaving intricate patterns as she mutters unfamiliar sounding words. The lake itself, once again, offering up a blue mist, which looks all the world like a tether holding her in place. You can see her fixation on the stampeding pile of rocks as she brings evocations to bear.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-12-04 17:58:21]
Subject: too much fun???
Orun, blood soaked and wading, knee deep in carnage, continues to hack a swath through the creatures to the surrounded guards. Each swing from this massive warrior a hit; every hit a death. He deals out destruction with clockwork precision ever mindful of his surroundings. This is obviously where his talents rest, amidst the battle; acting and reacting, spur of the moment decisions over life and death. There is a gleam in his eye and spring in his step as he pays tribute after tribute to Karakan the master of war. His warriors cry increasing his fury and, shattering the nerve of many of the small creatures, he pushes forward through the masses to reach his goal.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-05 19:56:28]
Subject: Arise...
Taking a quick survey of his companions, the Grey Priest spots Shih lying face down next to the wall. He scurries over, and attempts to use a healing spell to bring the man back to consciousness.

From: Game Master [2002-12-09 14:33:40]
Subject: heads Up!!!
The thunderous poundings of the stone creature shakes the earth beneath your feet as it makes its way towards the party and the battle. Trees are turned into splinted particles and shot-gunned throughout the cavern and stones are hammered into dust. The creatures lethal rampage slows only long enough to recognize Dlarumei as she hovers over the water. It recognizes her, not as an old friend or an aide to its cause, but as a deadly force, and enemy in need of eradication.

Several fire arrows are sent from the massive creatures right arm, and with defining sound and red hot flame, they streak towards the hovering priestess. Dlarumei pushing her hands forward, her eyes fixed on the incoming missiles, in an effort to support and sustain the spell of protection she has placed. She leans forward, her feet seemingly well placed on solid ground thought six meter off the waters surface, her hands outstretched, her shoulders tense she seems to move forward to meet the incoming objects. With flame and smoke, explosion, debris, and blinding violence, Dlarumei stands firm as the first missile turns into a ball of chaos against her spell. The second explosion stands her upright as it impacts a bit lower than the first. The third pushes her backwards about 3 meters and the fourth spins her once, head over heals towards the water below. With cavern enhanced abilities, Dlarumei is able to stop her descent and right herself, bring herself back to an attack position and begin again, her spell of choice. A temporary setback in her attack and one that she hopes costs no one their life.

The stone fury continues on its thunderous charge, drawing ever closer to the battle with the pigmies. With their numbers reduced to only a few remaining, and with absolute fear in their eyes caused by the nearing stone creature, they break and run. Quickly dodging a few sword and axe thrusts by the guards, yet unable to evade the signature shot of Urutlen, an arrow through the head as he drops the remaining four creatures, one after the other, headed to the tubway doors.

The massive creature pauses again, taking stock of the possable targets ahead, steadies itself, focuses, and, without warning, launches a single missile. It screams towards the party, dodging in and out of the trees in its path, skimming over the ground, over the top of the countless dead pigmies, straight between Orun and Almodhim who take swings at its hind quarters as it passes. The missile, like a great serpent, rises up in a steep arch and then dives directly at Jenge as he leans over Shih.

Jenge, hearing the serpent high pitched scream and the warnings called out by the party, looks up at the diving object and without hesitation, makes the best evasive maneuver he could come up with. Grabbing Shih's robes and diving over the top of the prone priest, Jenge pulls Shih with him as he forces the two of them to roll over and over again down the slight incline towards the caverns wall. The serpents head, striking the ground exactly where the two had just been, erupts into a volcanic blast of sand and fire, creating a hole deep enough for a man to stand in and still remain hidden. The blast knocking Deshnah, Hrissu, Urutlen and Nesh from their feet and covering them with sand and small particles of burning material. Shih, still unconscious, lies next to a very dazed Jenge, struggling to even comprehend which way is up, their robes smoking and singed.

The earth shakes again as the stone creature begins, a new, his stampede towards the remaining party.


From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-09 20:31:42]
Subject: Chaos
From the point that Jenge heard the shrieking missile approaching, his world's focus zoomed in on a very specific death. Diving and rolling with poor Shih, an instinctive reaction, was the last coherent action in a whirlwind of chaos. As though pummeled by Hands of Kra, he reels back and forth, struggling by reflex alone for his thoughts are scattered.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-12-09 21:11:12]
Subject: Run Away !!!
Urutlen picks himself up, and quickly starts making his way towards the tubeway entrance. He encourages anyone else to join him. He knows he is over matched and hopes one of the priests or magic users has something to pull out of their collective hats.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-12-09 21:41:01]
Subject: Good Luck!
If anyone cares to look, Neshkriuma can be seen to roll over to a prone position, paying no attention to running, rolling or slumping party members. He has other fish to fry.

He snatches something small from his robes and holds it in both hands, near the ground.

From: Game Master [2002-12-10 17:52:02]
Subject: NEXT!!!!!!!!!
The cavern is a swimming miasma of intentions, ideas, actions and mystic conjuring, along with one, very large, rampaging bundle of rocks. Through all of this, Churisan stands calm, small pieces of burning embers smolder on his shoulders as he simply takes in the situation. He has been a part of far too many battles, against mind-numbing battle magic and various demons in Livyanu, to allow this one pile of rocks to disturb his resolve. Contemplation in situations like these must be brief, and with an authoritative voice he commands the guard to follow Urutlen's example and move to the tubway doors, post haste. He encourages the rest of the party to follow when possible.

Orun grabs the back of Almodhim's armor and drags her back a few feet, preventing her from leaping out to the stone beast, as she most assuredly would have done. He calmly motions to the doors, and understanding the intent, she begins moving in that direction, never turning her back to the beast. Orun makes his way to Neshkriuma's side where he strikes a protective pose behind Nesh, waiting to help him if he needs it.

Urutlen, having sprinted to the terrace, which extends out before the doorway to the tubeway station, stops quickly at its edge and draws one of his two remaining arrows. He scans out over the cavern with purpose and with a determination, seeking any target he can launch death towards. The next instant, his legs seem to buckle as though he is fainting, his fall spinning him backwards towards the ground. At the last minute his fall turns into a roll and a loosed arrow, which flashes upward into the air above him. The force of the shot should have allowed the arrow to sail out of sight, but it stops abruptly ten meters above his head. Then the arrow starts to descend, spinning and twirling as it approaches the terrace, finally stopping a foot off the ground and hovering there. Urutlen stands, last arrow ready, near where he had been lying, scanning, once again, the air around him.

Another volley of white web extends from Deshnah's area and envelops the rampaging creature, which slows marginally as the sticky substance wraps around its legs and shoulders. The tinsel strength of the web is strong, but unfortunately, not strong enough to stop the beast. The tangled mass only hindering its progress by slowing its advancing speed as it struggles to reach the party. This, however, may have been just the opportunity that Nesh needed.

Still prone and bracing himself against any recoil that may incur, Neshkriuma depresses the little button on the small, egg-shaped object in his hand. There is a small flash at his hands and about thirty feet out a wall of flame erupts. The flames grow till they are ten feet tall and thirty feet wide and thirty feet deep, completely involving the stone giant. The beast, paying no attention to the flames, continues to move forward, slower now but just as determined and with as much vibrato as it can muster.

When the creature is about halfway through the flames, it seems to slow further; there is a stutter in its step and a hesitation in its charge. The flames, now burning blue, are putting out so much heat that several of the remaining trees, 10 feet behind the fire, burst into flame. The stone color of the beast now starts to streak and run down its body and shinny metallic colors in silver, blue and rose start to shine through. There are small sets of sparks which pop and squeek, sputtering out tiny showers of pin point lights which are instantly caught up in the heat and rise far above into the cavern. The Ru'un reveled beneath its camouflage makes a valiant effort to thrust itself beyond the flames, its body movements making hissing and grinding sounds as smoke funnels rapidly up into the air off its super heated back and arms. As the Ru'un attempts to move forward, the arm holding it off the ground jumps and shutters, and popping sounds can be herd from within its structure. An explosion follows and the entire left side of the arm rips away from the beast and hammers the cavern wall. With that, the giant tips down deeper into the flames, landing on its side, arm and leg flailing wildly in an effort to right itself.

Orun, Nesh, Churisan and Ssrivan, imagining what may come next, sprint to the tubway patio, grabbing Jenge, shih and Hrissu on their way. Looking back they can see several of the small orbs escape the beast only to be incinerated instantly in the flame, popping like soap bubbles as they try and flee the inferno.

The giant turns slowly in submission onto its back, giving in to the flames with oozing liquids evaporating and smoking as a strange stench begins to fill the cavern. Then, without warning, several of the beasts flaming arrows streak upward, randomly traveling in crisscross patterns as they flee the giant. Several of them, unable to escape the heat, explode, sending sticky flames in all directions. The two that made it out of the inferno sputter and jerk in uncontrolled movements and slam into the cavern wall, just above the waterfall, bring down tons of rock and debris. Several other smaller explosions occur within the fallen giant and then one enormous chaotic burst sends flames and debris to all corners of the cavern.

Dlarumei, heading towards the party, pauses just in front of the steps up to the patio and blocks the majority of the flame and debris headed in the parties' direction. The exertion of expanding and extending her protective spell proves to be a bit much for her and she drops to the ground in a heap, weak and shaking from her efforts.

The flames from Neshkriuma's eye of raising an Infernal Barrier die down and flicker out after a few minutes. This is a welcome sight as the temperature of the cavern has risen to approx. 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-12-10 19:38:16]
Subject: The cavern's destruction
Ssrivan shakes his head ruefully at the near total destruction in the cavern, and the loss of interesting tidbits of information it entailed. He suspects that the talk of testing the area for illusions triggered the active response of the guardians, but with their destruction, he'll not likely ever be sure. He heads forward to the edge of the patio to see if he can assist Dlarumei the rest of the way up to the platform. She, like many of the others, seems too exhausted to move on on her own.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-11 15:20:44]
Subject: They're coming to take me away ho ho hee hee ...
Shih, unconscious, groans and drools a bit as he's deposited like a sack of dna grain on the floor.

From: Deshnah [2002-12-12 03:13:44]
Subject: Gently rising
Desh, Leavers himself up from his prone position where he cast his last spell. Looking round he will make his way to the Patio area detouring to assist any of the party who need help.

Some of the party might now notice he wears a small pin on his collar with a Clan symbol of the Jade Diadem Clam emblazened on it. During the fighting most people may have missed him placing it on his collar.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-12 19:40:52]
Subject: Shell-shocked
Dirty and bedraggled, robes flapping, Jenge half-crawls away, hoping to keep up with the rest of his companions. He tries to drag Shih along, but stops and shakes his head in an attempt to clear it. As he starts to regain his senses, he turns around to see what has become of the Beast.

From: Deshnah [2002-12-13 02:33:38]
Subject: A small dose of something might help
Desh, The little Shamen detours towards Shih and Jenge as they scuff along the floor. He arrives at their side and attempts to steady Jenge while rummaging in his small sack for some herbs.

While he starts mixing the concoct ion, he looks up and shouts to Urutlen "If you consider the creature you have shot to be dangerous to the party, would you care to try and do something about those other two higher up on the wall over there?" At which point Desh waves towards two spots high up on the cavern walls....

Then returns to his herbs prior to administering them to Shih and Jenge.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-12-13 05:43:43]
Subject: But wait....there's more !!
Urutlen, looking to where Deshna pointed out shoots his last arrow at one of the creatures overhead. If that is successful, he will attempt to grab the hovering arrow and shoot the other one.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-12-13 07:24:20]
Subject: Helpful sitting
Neshkriuma will help Desh make the two flattened mages more comfortable.

"May I be of some assistance, esteemed Deshnah, in this endeavor?"

After a little first aid, Nesh can be seen looking around the cavern, apparently scanning for more enemies.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-12-13 14:26:05]
Subject: Oh my aching back....
Dlarumei sighs and groans a little as she pushed herself up to her feet. Standing a bit weak on her legs she makes her way down the stairs and heads towards the Livyani Priest and the slaves and porters.

"Brew a little extra of that Shaman Deshnah" she notices his new addition, the lapel clan pin and inclines her head in a respectful bow. "We will be needing about four more servings if possible. Good thinking brewing up healing rather than casting it in this place". She shuffles off towards the area where the hut once stood.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2002-12-13 15:03:36]
Subject: Brew, too
Nesh will commence brewing up some healing herbal remedy alongside Deshnah.

"I will assist, as well"

From: Game Master [2002-12-13 16:28:37]
Subject: Aftermath?
The heat of the cavern helps to add to the exhaustion of battle and much of the party finds themselves rather spent after what just happened. Deshnah, squatting next to Jenge and Shih, quickly brews up a healing potion to distribute to those in need.

Jenge leans against the edge of the patio standing on the sand just before it. At his feet lies Shih, still unconscious but propped up a bit in an effort to make him comfortable and ready to ingest some of Deshnah's concoction.

Hrissu stands next to Jenge with his hands on his knees, still trying to clear his head from the hit he took earlier. Dlarumei staggers over to where the dome of protection stands still, the Livyani priest sitting on his knees, concentrating to hold the shield in place.

Ssrivan continues to dictate to his scribe all that has happened and is happening as the two of them have stationed themselves just a little north of the party on the patio to get the best view of everything.

Churisan, Nesh, Orun and Almodhim stand in conference just on the lip of the patio at the top of the stairs. The four of them watch with some concern and interest as Urutlen takes careful aim, focuses and launches a speeding arrow over a great distance. His specially designed bow allows the arrow to have a far lesser arch for the distance than did Churisan's when he shot the small orb. You watch the arrow streak towards the cavern wall, in its two-second trip, and striking the stone it shatters. Its target obviously sidestepping the attempt. While the other converse over the arrows target, Nesh sets up a small pot next to Deshnah and begins the process of brewing up herbal remedies as well. The two of them masterfully mixing herbs and other items to exacting amounts to create elixirs that will fortify and rejuvenate.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-14 10:28:34]
Subject: $#@!*$&!!!
Shih groans wistfully!

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-15 18:02:14]
Subject: Up in the Sky!
The dazed priest squints at the sky, then turns to Urutlin and asks, "Good archer, what is your foe? I cannot quite make it out..." He rubs his eyes, smearing the dust around his face.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-16 10:41:44]
Subject: Fallen tree playing jazz in the forrest
Shih again groans, dreaming vividly of being imprisoned down an oubliette under the City of Sarku, forgotten.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-12-17 07:15:04]
Subject: Nice side step...
To Jenge: "It appears to be a Hlaka, although they appear to have made themselves invisible somehow. I think the one I shot is still hanging there with my arrow in it. I see at least two more way over there on the wall, but they had time to side step my shot. I will keep an eye on them as best I can." Urutlen then tries to collect as many of his arrows as he is able. They are custom made and very dear to him.

From: Game Master [2002-12-17 13:08:18]
Subject: Great Brew
While the rest of the part decides about the Hlaka and what to do, if anything, Deshnah and Nesh have finished concocting their herbal remedies and Deshnah hands Jenge a small clay cup with a bitter smelling liquid and indicates that he must drink and eat the contents of the cup. Deshnah then examines the brew created by Nesh and smiles a smile of satisfaction with what he sees and smells. Together the two men prop Shih into a sitting position and begins rubbing small amounts of the liquid on his lips and over his eyes. The liquid slowly seeps into his gums and through his eye sockets and begins to revive him. Shih, still a long way away, parts his lips and Deshnah slips a large amount of the brew and a few herb pieces into his mouth. In a minute or so, Shih closes him mouth and swallows. This seems to cause a strange reaction as his body jerks a few times and then he bolts into consciousness. His eyes wide open and drawing a breath so deep that it seems that he has returned from the depths of the ocean, Shih sits up on his own, shaking a bit as Deshnah and Nesh offer him more of the cup. He takes it without a sound or objection and consumes its entire contents.

Deshnah, content that Jenge and Shih will be better than normal in a few moments, picks up two more cups and scurries off to where Dlarumei and the Livyani Priest are sitting with Orun.

From: Orun Vu'urtesh [2002-12-17 13:22:13]
Subject: Back from the dome
Orun returns from the Livyani Priest and Dlarumei, walks up onto the patio where he addresses the party.

"My noble colleagues, unless there are any objections, it is my opinion that we abandon this place before any other ills can befall us. It seems that the tubway station here is our next objective and I would humbly ask if our noble locksmith Ssrivan would investigate the entrance to insure us safe passage. I would hate to go through all of this just to get caught in a trap.

It will take us a moment to bring the porters and slaves around; we have to rearrange packs and the like as we lost six slaves and four porters during our last conflict. They were protected by the dome that the Livyani Priest created, but it would appear that they could not withstand the fear of the battle and perished within.

I say that we follow Urutlen's example and collect as much as we can before we leave here. I personally do not wish to donate any more than need be to this cavern."

With that, he bows and turns and heads down to the battle site searching for a few crossbow bolts and any usable weapons.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-17 16:20:34]
Subject: FEELING GREAT!!! OOOO YEAH!
Shih veritably shakes with vitality. He makes an internal note to talk to Deshnah and Nesh about a joint venture selling this brew. With my marketing contacts, we'll make a fortune!

Shih stands and stretches. Turning to Orun, he smiles:

"Our porters and guards will be better than new shortly, I assure you." :)

Shih turns to Dlarumei to get caught up on what occurred after he was unconscious.

"While I appreciate the desire to move on, I would argue that this main room is the safest place for us at the moment, hlaka or flying demons not withstanding."

"Also, there are still things in this room that bear investigation. Things that could offer knowledge critical to our eventual success. Let's make haste slowly."

The natural ventilation of this large chamber should already be cooling things down.

"Lastly, I must offer thanks to my Lord Sarku in a manner befitting this festival time."

With that, Shih directs his slaves to quickly bring the dead bodies to the tubeway entrance. Time is of the essence. Inspired, Shih assists them.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-12-17 17:01:55]
Subject: Ummm Okay....
Dlarumei, after having ingested the Deshnah/Nesh concoction, orders some of the other slaves to help carry the remaining dead to the tubeway entrance.

"I know, I know," she says to the assemblage on the patio. "I am not all that wild about him reanimating our dead either, but the logic in this case would be in his favor. We have still too much stuff to carry without these ten, and I am sure that it would be in our best interest if these ten could serve us a bit longer. I am assuming that Shih is taking them into the tubeway station to decrease the likelihood of brining something else back into being that might be in the cavern. Something longer dead that we would not want to have around."

"Am I right, noble Sarkuvian Priest?" she asks pointedly.

"If so, I would caution you not to try to enter the doorway until Ssrivan has finished his examination."

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2002-12-17 20:07:33]
Subject: Doors
"The doors seem to work quite well. This place appears to have had much better maintenance than the original chambers we traversed on the cavern level. They do appear safe--for the moment at least, and open at my approach."

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-17 23:26:51]
Subject: Bring out your dead!
Shih smiles and bows to Dlarumei, acknowledging the clarity of her thinking.

"Most correct Noble Lady." :)

Shih cheerfully continues preparing the cadavers. Those near him may hear him mumbling about the excellent condition of this one or that. Sarku will be so pleased!

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-18 19:19:43]
Subject: Refreshing
Jenge, recognizing the brew for what it is, forces it down. Its rejuvenating properties bring a smile to the southerner's lips. He begins following the conversation again, and as he gets wind of Shih's plans, he begins to look exceedingly uncomfortable. He scans the group, looking to see their reaction to this plan.

From: Almodhim hi'Harisaya [2002-12-19 00:45:05]
Subject: Let's plow
Almodhim cleans her sword and prepares herself for the trek out of this dungeon. She makes her way over to Orun to commend him on his fighting prowess and to agree with him that quitting this place suits her greatly!

From: Deshnah [2002-12-19 05:22:59]
Subject: Packing up
Desh, carefully puts all the herbs and equipment back into his little pack. Once tidied up, he will carefully scout around the remnants of the cavern within the protection sphere and see if there is anything of value ha can add to his cache.

He puts thoughts of re-animated corpses to the back of his mind as he notices the travels of the bodies into the Tubway entrance

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2002-12-19 12:37:18]
Subject: I'm dreaming of a dead Christmas
After positioning the ten dead slaves and porters in the tubeway entrance, Shih busies himself with drawing the necessary symbols on the bodies. When complete, Shih removes a strange dark stone from a pouch tied around his neck in his robes. Kneeling, Shih makes the worm sign with this holy symbol and offers thanks to Sarku for his gifts of knowledge, the defeat of their enemies and the opportunity to demonstrate, during this most holy period, the truth of Sarku's promise of everlasting life.

With that Shih begins speaking in what some might recognize as the secret language of Sarku. Drawing in the enormous energies unique to this location, Shih makes the gestures and says the words to cast necrofacture over the prepared dead before him.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-12-19 13:55:17]
Subject: setting some aside
Churisan was collecting arrows when he saw Shih preparing the corpses. His scowl made it clear what he thought of Shih's actions. He stepped over to Dlarumei and spoke: "How your clan treats its slaves is no concern of mine, but these men (he gestured toward the dead guards) died as warriors; they deserve better."

[ooc: I checked the archives and couldn't find any indication of the clan or temple membership of our guards. If the dead were Sarku followers then I won't say anything to Dlarumei. I've been assuming they were either low status members of Cloak of Azure Gems, or some lower status client clan -- so maybe worship Hru'u or Ksarul, but I don't know. If Vimuhla or Chiteng they should be burned, otherwise buried.]

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2002-12-19 16:36:25]
Subject: Rise up, no down, no up, uhhh.
"Noble Churisan," Dlarumei starts with a slight bow. "These men are not any of our fallen guard. I would never allow such a thing to transpire, and I am sure that Orun would have more forceful words were the Sarku priest to try and raise our fighting brave in such a manner. No these are merely several of the slaves and porters who perished from fright as Shih's spell slammed the hut into the dome of protection."

"As you surmised correctly, noble follower of Karakan, these are indeed affiliated to the Cloak of Azure Gems and the elders in Monru. And, as you also know, the followers of Ksarul are not entirely opposed to the creation of the undead. There are some temples of Ksarul that create undead for their own purposes. Though I find it somewhat unnatural and would not ever condone such an act unless it served some higher purpose. Here, I feel that it is imperative that we not loose any more provisions or equipment, and since each man carried an exact amount through the porthole, to lose one, means that we lose his charge as well."

"Have no fear, I am sure that we are all with you in making sure that our fallen guards shall receive their due and be as properly taken care of as we can afford at this moment. Your concerns are extremely Lan, noble Churisan, and I thank you for voicing them."

She bows again to the follower of Karakan and then picks a place along the edge of the patio to sit for a spell, I mean, a while.

From: Game Master [2002-12-19 18:19:35]
Subject: facts...
[OOC-Just to clarify for everyone, the guards are all followers of Hru'u. Hence the reason why they listen to Nesh so well. :-) ]

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2002-12-20 07:00:11]
Subject: Let's Do It...
Once Urutlen has collected all of the arrows he can, he offers his assistance to prepare the fallen guards. He is happy to be leaving this location soon. He is also keeping an eye on the creatures on the wall the whole while.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2002-12-20 17:26:52]
Subject: graves detail?
Churisan responds to Dlarumei: "Of course Lady, the disposition of the souls of your slaves is not my concern. I referred only to the guards who were killed in the fight. As our guards serve the Master of Change, I imagine Neshkriuma can oversee whatever rites are appropriate."

He turned to step away, but then hesitated and turned back and spoke again. "I have seen the dead walk before. Near Ne'ab, when we fought the Livyani at the foot of the Tlashte Heights, their sorcerers raised whole cohorts of the dead. They marched up to die again on our spears." He spoke quietly, and seemed to be staring at something distant. "Livyanu is like this place -- so much sorcery in the air even a blockhead like me can feel it." He looked away. "Lots of demons there too." Chur walked out to the killing ground and began collecting arrows again, carefully pulling them from the corpses of the pygmy creatures.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2002-12-21 19:43:57]
Subject: Rest in Peace
The southern priest follows the conversation regarding the corpses, and then moves away with distaste. He stays near the tubeway entrance, letting his eyes caress every last detail.

From: Deshnah [2003-01-06 06:19:30]
Subject: Looking Around...
Desh Finishes packing his medical items and herbs away after helping two of the party recover. While on the way ot the Tubway entrance he will check out the cavern for useful items to take with him

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2003-01-06 06:51:22]
Subject: Tubeway Entrance
Ssrivan is still investigating the area around the entrance for potential problems--we wouldn't want any more rude surprises right now.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2003-01-08 12:23:48]
Subject: Arise and be counted
The vast power inherent in the area surges in brown necrotic waves to embrace the ten corpses before Shih. The stench of recently opened graves permeates the air. With spasmotic jerks and then more smooth motions, nine of the ten porters and slaves stand, ready to resume their duties. Shih stares in puzzlement at the 10th that remains on the ground. He then turns to any onlookers entoning, "Behold, Sarku's promise of life everlasting revealed!"

"Thank you mighty Worm Lord for these gifts."

Placing these slaves and porters under the direction of his slaves, Shih moves to Jenge for a private conversation.

From: Dlarumei Ba'ashcha [2003-01-08 22:59:05]
Subject: oh why not
Dlarumei, who does not seemed to be bothered by the nine new/old arrivals but does look a bit puzzled about the lack of this "blessing" being imposed on the tenth.

"The gods do have their whims" she can be herd saying to whomever is within earshot.

"As for the rest of us, I would suggest that we make short work of exploring what is left of this cavern and prepare ourselves to move forward. The properties of this cavern, though helpful, leave me a bit uneasy, and I would like to press on as soon as we can reasonably do so". She then moves towards her small hip sack that was discarded during the recent melee, checks it and places it, once more, over her shoulder so the strap crosses her chest and the bag hangs off of her left hip. With that she looks around the cavern to check on any other items that may have been tossed aside and then makes her way towards the doorway to the tub station.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2003-01-09 14:26:25]
Subject: Not dead yet ...
Looking up from his conversation with Jenge as though a thought just struck him, Shih shouts over to Nesh, "Please check the 10th dead slave to be sure he's actually dead. He may be unconscious or in some kind of coma. Perhaps he has the ability to slow his bodily functions through meditation. Some of your brew may revive him or we can stimulate him a bit more drastically. Alternately, we could make sure he's dead and I can make another attempt at raising him."

From Shih's smile, it's not clear whether he's jesting with his last comment.

From: Neshkriuma hiKharsama [2003-01-10 08:09:04]
Subject: Here... try some of this
As there is a bit of healing brew still in the pot, and it's not gone bad yet, Nesh will bring a cup over to the 'not-dead' porter and try to get a little between his lips. Better to revive him than to kill and reanimate, despite the Sarku-worshipers' desires.

From: Chúrisan Sóruna [2003-01-10 10:49:03]
Subject: finding egress
Once he's collected a supply of arrows, Churisan joins Ssrivan at the tubeway entrance. He's eager to find out how we leave this place.

From: Urutlen Utu-Tengmai [2003-01-10 23:07:48]
Subject: Moving Right Along....
Urutlen also is only concerned with collecting as many of his arrows as he can find and then getting along to the next destination.

From: Jenge hiVarion [2003-01-11 07:56:23]
Subject: Enough!
Jenge, who has been conversing with the Sarku priest, begins to raise his voice. "Enough of your words, your baseless arguments, your placating and your patronizing! You cannot rationalize abomination! Keep to yourself, and I shall do the same! Fah, the *smell*!

He turns abruptly and returns to the tubeway entrance. His face is set in anger, and he works his hands.

From: Ssrivan hiTlokhar [2003-01-11 10:33:28]
Subject: Observations
"It appears that our predecessors in this place enjoyed watching the goings-on here in the tubeway chamber. There is a nice observation gallery hewn into the wall above and behind the station. I also wouldn't approach those beautiful bronze statues over there too closely, as they just might be additional ru'un.

Ssrivan then directs his attention to analysis of the floor's intricate pattern, as there might be useful information encoded into it.

From: Shih hi Nacunya [2003-01-11 15:14:41]
Subject: Rigid lump!
Shih bows sarcastically to Jenge's retreating figure calling after him:

"Clearly Noble Jenge, the rigidity of mighty Thumis does not enable a weakling such as yourself to explore some knowledge. Life's journey includes death, the province of my lord Sarku. Know this, even a stability worshiper may enjoy the blessings of The Worm Lord. Therein lies the truth of his promise. My gift of these newly created undead to my lord Sarku is an opportunity for you to learn about a broader world. Come out of your dusty tomes and embrace it!"

Shih invokes POE to learn what he may of this chamber. In particular, he's interested in quickly exploring down the holes created by Jenge's spells.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 03:19, Sun 27 Feb 2005.