Your reasons being at the Vault of Graves are your own, but one thing is clear, this isn't a pleasure jaunt. More adventurers die in the Vaults than anywhere else in the world (so they say). One such appears to be Tomas Grayson, son of a local merchant. Or, at least that's what the crier said when he directed you towards the merchant's house.
The interviews with Marcellus Grayson and his guard captain took almost an hour. Some of the adventurers - some might say mercenaries - left before they had their interview, bored with the wait or for other reasons. Once it was over, a dozen of you waited expectantly for his decision. Finally, the merchant looked up from discussion with his captain.
"Thank you all for your interest in helping to find my son and return him to me. I cannot express how much your help means to me. Everyone here can get a token from Tomas on your way out the door. It will get you a 10 percent discount the next time you purchase from one of my stalls."
"Abroshqualmie, Evangline, Weslay, and the sisters Trihedron and Tamis, may I have you remain? The rest of you are free to leave." Feet scuff and weapons jingle as people stand up to leave. There is a little muttering about the choices, but by and large the rejected applicants have no hard feelings. It isn't as if there won't be other work for them soon enough, the world being what it is.
"Please, have a seat. "Marcellus said, gesturing to a half dozen chairs along the walls. "You five were chosen based on Captain Garret's recommendation on your general skills and probable ability to work together and get the job done. I hope he was not mistaken."
"Now, as to payment. The money will be paid after my son is returned to me ... dead - he almost gagged on the word - or alive and well." He raised a hand to forestall the inevitable complaints. "I can, however offer this." He picked up a tray with five small vials of blue liquid on it, and handed it to Trihedron, standing still and slightly ahead of the others. "They are healing potions, one for each of you, and should come in useful in your encounters. They are of the moderate variety, from what I have been told."
"You'll be needing a description of Rory, and his friends too, I suppose. He is tall, about 180 pounds, with light hair, a small triangle shaped scar on his right arm, and not much older than you," he indicated Evangline.
"The friends he was with...well, one is back - left my son to rot in that hole, gods cure him! - and the other is a half-elf. Grungy sort, probably the reason they went down there in the first place... Sorry, it still hurts to think of it and I want to blame someone. My son should have known better, though, and yet he made his own decisions. Anyways, the half-elf's name is Jerm, but I can't tell you much more about him than he has dark brown hair."
"The diviner I hired to scry him described a star-shaped room, filled with moving shapes in the darkness. A dirt tunnel led to the place, behind a door the diviners could not see. That is all I know. The star-shaped room was recognized by one of the old-timers in the Three Portals. I can't help you with a map though. All I know I have told to you."
"You need to be heading off to the Three Portals to get into the Vaults as soon as possible. I don't know how much time my son has left. But, before you go, if there are any questions you need answered, do not hesitate to ask."
did the coward tell how deep they got before disaster? abrosh says as he runs his arm painfully and he glances around the room at his new companions.
Your reasons being at the Vault of Graves are your own, but one thing is clear, this isn't a pleasure jaunt. More adventurers die in the Vaults than anywhere else in the world (so they say). One such appears to be Tomas Grayson, son of a local merchant. Or, at least that's what the crier said when he directed you towards the merchant's house.
The interviews with Marcellus Grayson and his guard captain took almost an hour. Some of the adventurers - some might say mercenaries - left before they had their interview, bored with the wait or for other reasons. Once it was over, a dozen of you waited expectantly for his decision. Finally, the merchant looked up from discussion with his captain.
"Thank you all for your interest in helping to find my son and return him to me. I cannot express how much your help means to me. Everyone here can get a token from Tomas on your way out the door. It will get you a 10 percent discount the next time you purchase from one of my stalls."
"Abroshqualmie, Evangline, Weslay, and the sisters Trihedron and Tamis, may I have you remain? The rest of you are free to leave." Feet scuff and weapons jingle as people stand up to leave. There is a little muttering about the choices, but by and large the rejected applicants have no hard feelings. It isn't as if there won't be other work for them soon enough, the world being what it is.
"Please, have a seat. "Marcellus said, gesturing to a half dozen chairs along the walls. "You five were chosen based on Captain Garret's recommendation on your general skills and probable ability to work together and get the job done. I hope he was not mistaken."
"Now, as to payment. The money will be paid after my son is returned to me ... dead - he almost gagged on the word - or alive and well." He raised a hand to forestall the inevitable complaints. "I can, however offer this." He picked up a tray with five small vials of blue liquid on it, and handed it to Trihedron, standing still and slightly ahead of the others. "They are healing potions, one for each of you, and should come in useful in your encounters. They are of the moderate variety, from what I have been told."
Trihedron takes the vials with a nod - "Thank you - I... We will make sure to put it to the best possible use" - even without knowing the others that have been selected, the dwarf immediately makes a point of giving a vial to each one of them at a time.
"You'll be needing a description of Rory, and his friends too, I suppose. He is tall, about 180 pounds, with light hair, a small triangle shaped scar on his right arm, and not much older than you," he indicated Evangline.
"The friends he was with...well, one is back - left my son to rot in that hole, gods cure him! - and the other is a half-elf. Grungy sort, probably the reason they went down there in the first place... Sorry, it still hurts to think of it and I want to blame someone. My son should have known better, though, and yet he made his own decisions. Anyways, the half-elf's name is Jerm, but I can't tell you much more about him than he has dark brown hair."
"The diviner I hired to scry him described a star-shaped room, filled with moving shapes in the darkness. A dirt tunnel led to the place, behind a door the diviners could not see. That is all I know. The star-shaped room was recognized by one of the old-timers in the Three Portals. I can't help you with a map though. All I know I have told to you."
"You need to be heading off to the Three Portals to get into the Vaults as soon as possible. I don't know how much time my son has left. But, before you go, if there are any questions you need answered, do not hesitate to ask."
did the coward tell how deep they got before disaster? abrosh says as he runs his arm painfully and he glances around the room at his new companions.
Trihedron nods at the gnome's question - "And do we know exactly why he ran, and when he last saw your son?" - she adds.
Tamis silently takes the vial from her older sister, a look of fear and appreciation on her face. What did I get myself into? So many strange people here... probably should have realized it wouldn't all be dwarves
"Umm... Do you know where we could find the friend that returned whom he traveled down there with?" Tamis shyly asks.
"Perhaps he would know the best place to pick up the trail." She adds, the words fading into a whisper as she finishes.
"All I know is he came back out through the inn, white as a sheet, and screaming how he was the only one left. Got on a horse and rode out of town like a pack of devils were on his tail."
"Very well then, that means we are unfortunately prevented from gathering any more information from him..." - Trihedron nods at the man, then speaks, resolute - "I guess it is time we took our leave then - We will do whatever is in our reach to bring your son back" - she bows shortly, then turns around, heading first towards Tamis, but addressing all the others.
"Well met all, unfortunately time is of the essence, as a young boy's life is at stake under unknown conditions - My name is Trihedron, and I am pleased to meet you all, but I believe any other formal introductions are best followed through on the road, to save us time" - she comments while storing the vial, and refitting her sparse gear and weapons - "Are we ready to go?" - she asks.
Let me grab a thing or two! And I AMA Abroshqualmie of Saraenrae. the small gnome says as he rubs his fire blackened arms
Abrosh quickly purchases a long spear and a couple scroll cases
"Abroshqu..." Maybe he'll go for Abe
Tamis taps the greatsword strapped across her back, before looking up at her sister. "I am good to go... I think."
im here now
Upon receiving potion she replies
"Thank you, This will be quite Handy."
After folks start introducing them selves
Eva adds
"Since I have not introduced myself, I'm Evangeline Valeria Astrid."
"Well met Evangline" - Trihedron nods with a smile, then turns to Abroshqualmie - "We were about to accompany Abroshqualmie as he gathers some additional supplies" - then again looks to Marcellus Grayson - "With your license, we will take our leave to carry out whatever final preparations are necessary, and start the search for your son"
She then stands up, and begins gathering her gear with an obvious nod to Tamis.
Tamis quickly fall in line behind Trihedron. "Final preparations? what else do I need to do. I've got my sword. Is there something else I need?" She asks her older sister, concerned that she forgot to get something important.
"I believe we have all we need Tamis - but you heard Abroshqualmie - he needs additional supplies. Also, I know ye can handle yer own as far as foraging goes sister, but if we're heading underground that may not be enough - how many days of rations have ye packed?" - she asks without being condescendent - "I have five days worth on me, but am going to buy another score before we go on"
Turning back to the group she adds - "They're pretty quiet so far, don't you think?"
I have 5 days as well…do you think we need more?
Abrosh cocks his head to the side and ponders
Tamis rummages through her backpack for her rations. "Looks like 5 days. Never needed more then that, though I suppose I could pick up more. Do you really think we are going to need 25 days worth Trihedron? That seems like a lot. Never been in a dungeon like this before though. Hmm, okay I'll buy a score as well. You're the traveler. I guess I'll take your word for how much we need." Tamis replies, thinking aloud.
"okay, lead the way sister. Your bound to be better at dealing with villagers then me, these people don't act like dwarves." She stammers out before realizing that she was still speaking aloud, her face blushing slightly.
After Eva does a quick check of her supplies
"I only have two days worth, so I think we could go shopping and stock up.
And I hope they have some with Jerky and Smoked Gouda."
Upon hearing the comment about "acting like a dwarf."
"Of course they don't act like Dwarves, because they are not Dwarves.
If you want I could handle the talking."
Trihedron wears a puzzled look at her sister, but then laughs - "Apologies Tamis... I meant to say that I am buying five more days worth of rations - you are in the right, that is not a score"
Checking her backpack, then turning to Abroshqualmie, she adds - "I would say that, at least ten days per person worth of food would be desirable, since we are blind as to what we are going to find, and the underground can be treacherous - one moment you are just stepping into a cave, and the next one you are sliding down a tunnel, to be carried many hundreds of feet down below"
"Should also check if we have all that is needed for cave trekking - ropes, pitons, hooks, etc"
At Evangline's suggestion - "It may be a good idea, though I wouldn't expect to run into trouble while shopping for supplies - they are selling, we want to buy - not much that should go wrong with that I expect... In any case, let us get going as fast as we can"
if I buy more can anyone carry them? I am just a little fella...
Eva replies to Trihedron
"I tend to find the best deals in towns and villages, when I go shopping."
To Abroshqualmie's question while being diplomatic.
"While it pays to be prepared, there could be times where you might get separated from the party, and if a party member has your stuff it'll be trouble for you.
Though for now I think I could hold onto the supplies, and I would recommend getting a Handy Sack, of one of those magic bags."
I have 5 with me, I just can't carry the rest, thats all.
takes the potion form Trihedron with a wink and smile in Dwarven says " I thank you and can see we will be working well to gather"
bob turns on a foot back torus Grayson "before I forget I do have a few questions about your son and you 3 each in fact" only holds up 5 fingers
"What is his favorite color, food and if you can remember his boy hood pet if he had one, and for you mister Grayson what was his mothers madden name and your fondest drink"
" i wonder if he will catch it"
Before the companions leave, the bard, quiet until this point, asks a few questions of his own. Merchant Grayson looks nonplussed, and answers, 'I fail to see how these things are helpful in finding my son. But, if you insist? He is fond of blues and grays, enjoys pork pies with wine, and he has never had a pet. My wife was born as a Lineberry, and I enjoy Teruvian Fire Brandy. Is that enough for you? I assume you are trying to gather information that my son would know so that you can avoid being fooled by an impostor?"
The hobbit was quiet, buried in his books. Content to sit quietly and observe. As the question of weight for the journey comes up, he decides it is time to break his silence.
"I have inherited a magic bag from my parents. Although it looks small, I have manage to stuff more things in it than most people fit in their house."
Wesley opens his bag and produces a folding desk and folding chair.
"We can stuff all the provisions in this bag if it will make things easier on others. I have endeavored to put anything in this bag that would be useful in my many travels. I have many books I have accumulated over the years."
"Oh, and I have smoked fish. It is sealed in packs, but I like the taste of smoked fish. It keeps longer than you would think. Some say it tastes better when aged."
Wesley looks solemly at the merchant. "I have rescued over a hundred held captive against their will. You have my word I will do my best to see your son back with you."
Abrosh smiles and he plops another 10 days of rations in Wesley's bag
looks Merchant Grayson in the eyes "yes something like Mr. Grayson grandma always told me you cant be to careful. Also my last question be for I forget can we have some thing of his not to pricy just some thing that was his and his alone"
looks to the party with more movement then need takes a deep bow
"my sincerest apologies I for got it introduce my self I'm but fill free to call me Bob"
leans in closer to Trihedron with a half smile whispers
"thank you for reminding me I almost for got rations I got lots of wine a ale but no food"
gives a small wink and a chuckle
"okay 10 days makes a lot more sense. Oh and climbing stuff! I suppose that could be useful." Tamis replies to her sister.
She always more prepared. She thinks admiringly.
Having gotten all of your questions answered and supplies purchased, the six of you head towards the Three Portals Inn. Actually, the Three Portals is more of a tavern than an inn, with no sleeping space to speak of. Accommodations are found elsewhere in the village, but the Three Portals is both the physical and financial center of town.
At first glance, the Three Portals appears to be a typical tavern - only several times larger than most - with a rough and rowdy crowd. The bar fills the long wall to your left, perhaps 100 feet long, and is staffed by at least 4 barmen. It is hard to get an accurate count, because of the crowd of people milling about.
There is a large round opening in the floor, maybe 10 feet across, with a 3’ high wall surrounding it. On the right side is a sloping ramp leading perhaps 20 feet below the floor of the tavern and ending in a large set of iron-bound doors. On the wall directly across the “hole” from you is a smaller iron-bound door, perhaps 4 feet tall.
About 10 feet in front of that door is a small gathering of people around a very tattered and bloody looking young elf. The elf is sobbing and you can barely make out what he is saying through the din of the tavern and the poor wretch’s sobs. “Please, you have to help. I left him, I had to, it was awful. Help him, he’s my brother I can’t leavehimIcan’tleavehimhe’smybrother...” A group of dwarves and humans over at a nearby table started gesticulating to a pile of money on the table. One scruffy looking dwarf was smiling at the young elf as he raked the money into a leather pouch.
Your attention is drawn to a stout dwarf in fine clothes pushing his way through the crowd nearby to reach you. He smiled and spoke over the crowd “Welcome to the Three Portals! My name is Thofir and this is my place. Come to try your hands at the Vault, eh? Well, we have the resources for it, no doubt about that. There is food and drink, and some basic goods sold over there", he indicated a stall selling prepared foods and basic weapons. “And there is always a healer on call if you should be unfortunate enough to need on, as you can see.” A human in light tan robes was holding a hand to the wounded elf’s torn ear, a nimbus of light showing that healing magics were in play. “All for a fee, of course.”
Suddenly, a bell by the small door began ringing frantically. The young elf let out a howling sob and lunged for the door, crying “Arthanis! You’re alive!” But, before he could reach the door, a dwarf with a truncheon tackled him and held him down. “You know the rules,’ he snarled, and nodded at a man in purple and red robes standing nearby. The man held his staff at the ready and pointed it at the small door. Another dwarf flung the door open to reveal a steel gate. Behind the gate, you see a glimpse of gnashing fangs and writhing fur before a stream of fire erupted from the mage’s staff. A shriek and the smell of burnt fur filled the air as the dwarf slammed the door shut again.
The dwarf before you looked at the scene for a moment before turning back to you. “So, have you picked your portal yet? I’d not recommend the well just yet. You look a little green for that.”
"Whoa, what was that about?, And what are the rules here?"
Tamis watches the event in front of her with rapt attention. What did Trihedron get us into? Have to remember to ask what she's heard about this place...
"Why was he not allowed to go back for his brother?" Tamis exclaims in outrage. What has the world done to these dwarves for them to have so little regard for family?
tell me what has happened abrosh says to the elf as he puts his burned arm on his shoulder
Wesley is content to hide in the background, his cloak and small stature allows him to melt in to the very shadows. He confidently walks up to the man in the red and purple robes. He pulls back his hood to reveal fair, curly hair tinged with red.
"Good man, please tell me the rules. You have an efficient operation here, we just want to know how it works and what we are allowed to do."
The dwarf answered Evangline and Tamis. "Hah! I thought surely someone wanting to go into the Vaults already knew all there was to know about the Three Portals. Well, the well", he gave a bark of a laugh ,"is the nastiest, foulest, damned difficultest place you'll ever see. I've seen scores of parties vanish without a trace into the depths. Those that come out, rarely do so in the same condition they arrived in. The rat door" , he motioned to the small door that you just saw opened and shut with such alacrity , "leads to the rat tunnels. There's a warren of them under there, leading all sorts of places. We know of at least four levels that they open up into. they's be a might bit snug for your brick of a fighter there," gesturing at Evangline, "but the rest of you'll be just fine. Might have to crawl a bit though. The final portal is the main entrance there, "he said, gesturing to the final door at the end of the sloping ramp. That's where most of the fresh meat start. Takes you to the first level of the Vault."
"You're all new to the Vaults, eh? Fine by me. I get paid the same. 25 gold a head, payable up front. Covers all the ale you care to drink and helps pay for a resident healer to be available day or night. You go through a door, it gets locked behind you. You need out, ring the bell."
He pointed to the elf. "He got himself torn up by one of them rats in there, maybe the one you saw getting toasted by Hamish over there. He ran, left his kin. Not too uncommon. The Vault's bring out the hero in some, the coward in others. He didn't get too far, seems like. No one, and I mean no one opens the grates without the bell ringing. It's a standing rule. There's things down there that could wipe out half this tavern without sweating too hard. Them portal gate's are protected by some high level magic. It's what keeps the region safe, and me in coin. And some of them have learned to ring the bell, hoping to get free of the Vaults. So, you ring the bell, you wait for the door to open, and for someone to determine that you aren't a gribbly."
---------------------------------------------
The elf looked at Abroshqualmie with terror-filled eyes. "I left him, I left him, I left him. We were attacked by something, I never saw what, but the smell was incredible. Then, I don't know, the thing engulfed Arthanis and I tried to burn it and it backlashed. I can't believe he's gone..."
---------------------------------------------
The wizard looked down upon Wesley and smiled. "You go in, you do your best to stay alive and gain treasure and fame, you come out. Ring the bell inside to signal that you are ready to return to the Three Portals. Once we verify that no monsters are trying to force their way into the tavern, we open the magically enhanced grates to allow you passage. It's quite simple, really.
I guess his brother had already been lost to those rats. Didn't really look like an elf at that grate now that I think about it.
"did you say all the ale I can drink? I like this place." Tamis exclaims excitedly.
"Oh and we are tracking a boy who ventured down here. He is tall, about 180 pounds, with light hair, a small triangle shaped scar on his right arm, 'bout same age as her." Tamis explains pointing to Evangaline.
"Went down with two friends, another human and a half-elf. Do you happen remember them and which of the portals they ventured down?" Tamis asks, slowly making her way to the bar on the far wall.
talking to the party "I only have 21gp left no more also ill need rations. I do have a 2 barrels one of zantos ale and one ok wine more then willing to share them but ill nee the 25 gold minimum to go in to bad gryson did not tell me that at the start. if you lend a hand ill pay it back asap, ill try to make some coin and get info well where here.
takes takes out his had harp and gets to work
A man sitting on a stool with a set of pan pipes glared at Bob as he started to set up shop. "Oi! Ain't no playin' in here without you pay the fee!"
Thofir smirked and said, "Aye, Finser's got the right of it. He paid his part and has the tavern for the evening. If you want to try later on, then you can pay for the privilege."
The dwarf looked to Tamis. "I bet the little one here has a gold or two you can borrow. Did you say you were looking for a boy? Sounds like Grayson found himself some fresh meat to go look for his son. Figures. He couldn't afford any veterans." He motioned at the rowdy crowd.
"The boy and his friends went in the main door there, and were gone longer than most green groups. Thought they'd all died for sure when that fellow rang the bell. He was white as a sheet, he was, and ran out fast as lightning."
"Anyways, if you're going in, better make it quick like. The longer you sit out here, the louder the chanting will be when you finally do go in...and you don't want to give the gribblies in there any more warning than you have to."
I only have 12 gold on me, perhaps I could cast a curative spell to cover the rest? I have the ability to heal everyone in the room if that would suffice.
leans in closer to Trihedron with a half smile whispers
"thank you for reminding me I almost for got rations I got lots of wine a ale but no food"
gives a small wink and a chuckle
"You're most welcome Bob - even though ale can be a lifesaver, we need some food in our stomachs" - she jests - "Though I am curious about your questions, and would like to talk to you later about them" - Trihedron adds.
The hobbit was quiet, buried in his books. Content to sit quietly and observe. As the question of weight for the journey comes up, he decides it is time to break his silence.
"I have inherited a magic bag from my parents. Although it looks small, I have manage to stuff more things in it than most people fit in their house."
Wesley opens his bag and produces a folding desk and folding chair.
"We can stuff all the provisions in this bag if it will make things easier on others. I have endeavored to put anything in this bag that would be useful in my many travels. I have many books I have accumulated over the years."
"Oh, and I have smoked fish. It is sealed in packs, but I like the taste of smoked fish. It keeps longer than you would think. Some say it tastes better when aged."
Wesley looks solemly at the merchant. "I have rescued over a hundred held captive against their will. You have my word I will do my best to see your son back with you."
Trihedron cannot help but nod in approval at the surprising level of preparation and determination shown by Wesley - "As will we all" - she reinforces.
Suddenly, a bell by the small door began ringing frantically. The young elf let out a howling sob and lunged for the door, crying “Arthanis! You’re alive!” But, before he could reach the door, a dwarf with a truncheon tackled him and held him down. “You know the rules,’ he snarled, and nodded at a man in purple and red robes standing nearby. The man held his staff at the ready and pointed it at the small door. Another dwarf flung the door open to reveal a steel gate. Behind the gate, you see a glimpse of gnashing fangs and writhing fur before a stream of fire erupted from the mage’s staff. A shriek and the smell of burnt fur filled the air as the dwarf slammed the door shut again.
The look in Trihedron's face is grave and somber as she witnesses the drama unveil before them - on the one hand, her dwarven profile understood the necessary care that the situation called for, but on the other, as soon as the door opened she felt the urge to jump forward, shooting that creature dead, and wading into the tunnels looking for the sibling elf.
As the wretched one recounts the sad tale of how he ran off, leaving his brother behind, she shakes her head - "Stay calm - You did as much as you could - nothing more can be demanded" - trying to soothe the man's sense of guilt and despair.
The mood lightens up as the talk of ale and performance arts takes the room, but Trihedron is frozen, looking at the elf - What if it was Tamis and me...? - the disturbing thought freezing her in place.
So far, the Vault of Graves was a destination, a far off thought and prospect. But not anymore - it was reality, and not a pretty one at that.
But she was there for a reason - shaking off the stupor and moving away from the elf, but still starting at him every once in a while, she turns to her companions, heading to the counter - "I have enough to cover our expenses Thofir" - and placing 15 platinum in front of her.
"We can sort out the details of who owes how much to whomever else the next time we meet out here - so let us make sure we make it back" - she adds to her companions, then turns to Thofir again - "I also wish to provide all the ale he can drink, and perhaps more" - she nods towards the dismayed elf - "How much?"
------------------------------
At the description of the possible entrances, Trihedron states flatly - "I believe we should take the main entrance - let us start humble and with care in our step" - downing her mug of cider in one go, she stands up gathering her gear - "And Thofir is right - let us not dally anymore - a life is on the stake here - time is of the essence" - she finishes, moving towards the top of the slope and waiting there for the others.
Tamis reaches the counter, procuring herself a mug of ale. She takes a swig of the ale, the dwarven brew reminding her of home.
You can do this Tamis. Trihedron is here, she'll make sure that we don't get over our heads. She promised we would make it home...She wouldn't lie to our parents. I hope. Please know what your doing sister, I don't want to end up like those elves.
Tamis takes another drink pensively, the full weight of what shes about to due kicking in.
Seeing her sister move towards the door far too soon, a look of dismay crosses Tamis' face.
I guess no more liquid courage before the adventure.
Tamis' slides through the crowd around the bar and heads back towards her sister and their traveling companions. Taking a deep breath in, she follows her sister towards to end of the slope. Time to show her you belong out here. "Let's go save this man's son."
Wesley grins and adds:"Let us make them pay in libations when we return. Unless your a dwarf, I find drinking impairs your adventuring."
Wesley bows to Tanis:
"Thank you milady, if we return, I am sure we will have enough to cover your outlay."
He again looks serious: "We have a saying in the rescuing people business, if you wait long enough, they won't be alive when you find them."
Wesley says: "About rations. I have plenty stashed in my bag. The good hobbit kind, enough to keep us little folk from wasting away if we miss our square six. That's if you pass on the smoked mullet."
The hobbit tucks his cloak about himself and seems to melt into the shadows better than many rogues.
...
"leads to the rat tunnels. There's a warren of them under there, leading all sorts of places. We know of at least four levels that they open up into. they's be a might bit snug for your brick of a fighter there," gesturing at Evangline, "but the rest of you'll be just fine. Might have to crawl a bit though. The final portal is the main entrance there, " he said, gesturing to the final door at the end of the sloping ramp. "That's where most of the fresh meat start. Takes you to the first level of the Vault."...
Eva puts on a slightly sour face showing hearing that it was very tight spacing.
"Given the size of rats compared to Ulfens, I guess it's to be expected."after a few moments
She joins the dwarven sisters for a Drink and she asks the group
"Before we go in, I think we should know a bit about each other before we go in. This is not just for trust reasons, but so we also have an Idea of who can do what and if there is a chance for any synergy among the talents and skills in the group.
And even setup a formation for moving so we don't get ambushed."
you know...I hear that the goblins down here are really just mutated goblins and are crazy strong.. Abrosh is saying when Evangeline begins
i do lots of healing. I will keep you standing, I have some command of fire and am deadly to undead as well. I Gould probably stay in the middle of everyone.
Wesley nods:
"Wise to plan now rather than later. I hide so I can't be seen. My most powerful magic accelerates those around me to move and attack at an extreme speed. Right now I can affect five targets, so it will probably be you five as I have no martial capability to speak of."
He pulls out a magic rod.
"I use this to nullify other spellcasters. One hit with my fiery rays and their magic is stopped for a while."
"As for our order, in the caves we know the rear is safe at first. I prefer to put the power up front. What do you think about this? I will take the rear with my dog and our healer. We can put Tamis and Eva up front. Bob and Trihedron in the middle."
Eva puts on a slightly sour face showing hearing that it was very tight spacing.
"Given the size of rats compared to Ulfens, I guess it's to be expected."after a few moments
She joins the dwarven sisters for a Drink and she asks the group
"Before we go in, I think we should know a bit about each other before we go in. This is not just for trust reasons, but so we also have an Idea of who can do what and if there is a chance for any synergy among the talents and skills in the group.
And even setup a formation for moving so we don't get ambushed."
Takes a cup in each hand and starts to drink each in turn "Good idea Eva! well you all should know buy now I'm a Bard and being a bard is the greatest of things, I can do a little of every thing form simple prestidigitation to in planting my idea in peoples heads not to mention I can make sure we all keep a good movement in triple time"
winks finish one drink and contuses
"as well as keeping morals high and your minds sharp. well not as sharp as mine of Corse but good enough"
Looks adoringly to Trihedron "again you show the size of your heart and caring for others Trihedron not only do you pout others ahead of you, you paid my way knowing me not even a day. I'll prove to you that this trust is not in vain and that ill repay you as only a true bard can.................. assuming we get out a live that is" He downs the last bit in the other cup as starts dancing to the next step in the journey, he does not put them down either.
Wesley watches Bob put things in a bag similar to his.
"Wow, you got one too!"
He scampers up to Bob. "Can I check it out, I was going to move some books to my dog, but if you have some extra space......."
"Wait, if you can store the rations, that would be great."
Wesley begins to unpack bags of hobbit trail and smoked fish from his pack. The weight is about 40# total.
He whispers:"Never put one of these things inside another. Ma said that would be bad."
Wesley watches Bob put things in a bag similar to his.
"Wow, you got one too!"He scampers up to Bob. "Can I check it out, I was going to move some books to my dog, but if you have some extra space......."
"Wait, if you can store the rations, that would be great."
Wesley begins to unpack bags of hobbit trail and smoked fish from his pack. The weight is about 40# total.He whispers:"Never put one of these things inside another. Ma said that would be bad."
Lets Wesley put what he needs to in the bag "Yea I got one my over proactive brother made me take it when I left home I swear I see him in the shadows fowling me some times but that's just his way. Your Ma sounds almost as smart as my grandma."
Pauses for a second then all most pleading ""You mean there rest of you don't have one? My brother told me all adventures had them on reason I took it please tell me you guys at least have true crystal weapons to"
Shows his sword looks made from a single piece of emerald colored stone