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------ Chapter 19: A Crystal Wall, and a Mysterious Inhabitant -------
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The party emerge from the slippery corridor into a room with an
unusual feature ....

(DM:)
From Dithion's light on his club, you can see its rays reflect off
some kind of crystal at the far end of the large cave. It seems to
cover the entire far wall! You will have to get closer for more
detail.

(Dithion:)
Dithion looks over at the wall, and then back at the party, and says,
with a shrug, "My curiosity is killing me...or will kill me.  I have
to see that wall."  And so he heads straight for it.

(Falrun:)
After Dithion announces his intentions of crossing the room Falrun
quickly says "Don't you know that's one of the oldest baits for
adventurers?"

If Dithion insists on crossing the room anyway you hear Falrun mutter
"I guess that's why it's used so much, it works so well."  In any
case, Falrun will also hang back observing the area and watching for
danger.

After looking around briefly, and determining that the general area is
safe, Falrun will follow Dithion to the far end of the cavern to
investigate the shiny glint from the far wall.

(Silver:)
By the time that Silver crossed the water and entered the cave,
Dithion was heading towards the crystal wall. She stayed close to her
friends at the cave entrance, looking alternately at Dithion, and back
up the tunnel they just came from.

(DM:)
Okay, all of you are in the cavern now, and see the passage leading
off to the left (also a natural tunnel), while Dithion and Falrun are
inspecting the crystalline wall at the far end of the cave. The area
seeming secure (at least as far as Falrun is concerned :) ), all of
you crowd around the wall (some people probably keeping an eye on the
as yet unexplored tunnel, just in case).

I will try to give a small ascii map. Here goes ..


                          unexplored
                           passage

                     ______/     \_________
                   /                        \    *=Ant Figure in 
                  /                         |\         Crystal Wall     
 corridor        /                          |*\  |=Crystal Wall
 with big -------                           | /
  puddle  _______                           |/   P=Position of most
                 \                      P   /          of party
                  \                        /
                   \ ____________________ /

This is very simplified, and you see that the walls and floor etc are
very uneven.  Even the crystal is not even, but looks kinda like
solidified ice or something like that, although there is no cold
emanating from it.....

The crystal at the far end, is clear, and one can see into it.  To all
of your amazements, there is something inside the crystal. It appears
to be an antlike form.  Only, it stands as tall as you do, and is
slightly upright!

Also, at further study, you find the ant is purple coloured (was
difficult to see thru the uneven crystal), and it stands sideways
compared to you guys.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Well, this is interesting.  I wonder why that thing is
in there.  Perhaps we should try to release it."

(Shade:)
Shade frowns "Not today Dithion, we are too tired for another battle
if we can avoid it.  Tomorrow we shall see."

(Dithion:)
Dithion shrugs and says, "Of course.  Of course.  I didn't suggest
releasing it now, but later after we had rested."

(Keilan:)
Keilan replies to Dithion's original comment.  "Have you so short a
recollection?  The last time you messed with obviously unknown forces
we were very nearly slaughtered.  You are one of those who suggest
these caves and the race who built the temple may be connected in the
depths of time.  If the creature is not likely to free itself in the
next week, then leave it be and let's tell Mindak of its presence.
You can bother it on our way out.  Check the wall to make sure it's
solid and let us be on our way."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Listen you, jackal, first, those things were summoned
to guard the altar, they were guardians for whoever held this place."

(Tatiana:)
"Come on Guys!" Tatiana huffs from the back "this baiting and arguing
is getting old!"  "Can we just stop it and behave like adults?" she
asked doubtfully.

"It's bad enough we lost Arlon, but if this keeps up I'm leaving as
well!". Then under her breath "even if I have to dig my way out"

(Dithion:)
He continues "Whoever held this place trapped this thing...why?  Maybe
because it is a force for good.  Now, that may be false, but can you
in good faith just leave it there?  Never knowing if it's trapped or
not?  If it is sentient and good?  How would you like to be in it's
place?  Second, don't give me orders, Keilan.  I don't like orders, I
choose my own path, so don't tell me what to do.  Understand?"

He is obviously pissed at Keilan.

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana isn't too happy with any of the verbal combatants.  

(Keilan:)
Keilan responds to Dithion's original "jackal" comment in spite of
Tatiana's urgings: "I have no desire to argue with you.  But think too
that you have given me little reason to see the wisdom of your paths.
You fight well but I'd rather not fight at all if I can help it.
There is so little to be gained.  I..." <sigh> Keilan turns away
without further comment.

(Dithion:)
He turns to the rest of the group and says, "I will, however, submit
to the wishes of the rest of the group, and those I DO respect.  If
all of ye think it is dangerous, then I will let it be, but try to
think of yourself in it's position."

(Falrun:)
Falrun responds to Dithion, "Maybe we should, but is that really such
a good idea?  Maybe this was such a fearsome creature that encasing it
in this material was the only way to stop it.  I suppose the only way
to find out is to examine the situation more fully."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "I don't know if it is a good idea or not.  What do the
rest of you think?"

(Arlon:)
Arlon will crawl up near the crystal to look at the bug, being careful
not to bring attention to himself.  He recalls something from his
history *I know I have seen this thing somewhere during my learnings.*
the images are a little difficult to recall; but as he relaxes his
mind the vision finally comes to him *YES! That must be it, this is
wonderful.  They disappeared so long ago.  Mendahl should be very
interested as well.  Spells, spells, spells!*

(Falrun:)
Falrun then proceeds to examine the crystal for traps, secret catches,
or anything that may be a way to open the crystal or release the
creature.  Hopefully he won't accidentally release the creature during
his search.

While searching, he will ask, "Keilan or Silver, have either one of
you seen such a creature before or know whether this thing is
naturally hostile or not?  I would hope that this is not some form of
stasis created to hold a creature of the likes of the first three that
we encountered.  I would also like to know if anybody else has had
dealings with such beings."

(Silver:)
"The only time I have seen something like this was when a mating pair
of Ankhegs tried to nest around the farms near my Grove, back home.
The adults were fearsome indeed, and had to be destroyed before they
wiped out the small community of farmers. But this one, if indeed it
is an ankheg, would be a very young one indeed, judging by it's size."

(Falrun:)
"Someone remind me to thank Arlon for being the gallant hero by
running off when we could use his help and knowledge the most.  I tell
ya, I just don't know about some Elves.  They flit around the forest
talking about life, nature, and how lovely everything is and then as
soon as they get a little bit ticked, they run off in a huff. Present
company excluded of course.  Ah well, I guess some Elves are just like
that.  Kind of makes me embarrassed to be one."

OOC: ;-}

(Arlon:)
*That one almost hurt, it is still not time yet.  I really wonder what
you (Falrun) would do if I appeared in front of you as a huge spider.*
he smiles inside.  *I'll remind you, don't worry about that.*

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "I wouldn't blame him for leaving.  Just remember why he
left."  He glances darkly at Keilan.

(Falrun:)
"I agree that he may have had a good reason to leave, but I still
can't justify leaving everyone because of one individual's actions."

(Silver:)
Silver will smile gently when Falrun says this, and glance all around
the cavern. She will nod slowly as she does so.

(Falrun:)
"I personally know what it is like to be abandoned in times of dire
need on more than one occasion and I can deal with it.  Some of the
rest of our group haven't and may be going through what I have already
experienced.  I know that it is not a pleasant experience."

"But I suppose what is done is done and talking the issue to death
won't help either.  If Arlon is so heartless to make the rest of the
group feel abandoned, then so be it."

(Arlon:)
*Heartless!  Now you're getting nasty.  That appearing spider idea is
looking better all the time.  I wish they would stop dwelling on my
disappearance and concentrate on the work at hand.  I hope my idea
doesn't backfire, I guess out of sight out of mind doesn't always
work.*

(Keilan:)
On the subject of Arlon, Keilan says "Arlon is probably here.  He can
be invisible and he has said he can fly as well.  He could move
silently and nearly untraceably.  Elves are a lot I will never
understand.  I think it is that their long years rob them of a sense
of immediacy.  The older they grow, they harder they are to sway to
another course of action.  Their tongues remain golden and their eyes
bright but they become as stone headed as an honourbound dwarf.
Curious too, but not like the gnomes.  The elves I have met always
wish to know the movements of others.  Arlon may not be sitting with
us, but he may well know our every move."

(Silver:)
"Oh yes, of that I am sure" says Silver softly, almost to herself
"Aren't you, Arlon ?  Take care of yourself, my friend."

(Arlon:)
*Let them speculate on what I can do, I always liked playing charades.
The unknown can give way to fear and mistrust though; perhaps I should
tell someone ... Tatiana?*

(Silver:)
Thinking about Dithion's idea of attempting to release the
ant-creature, Silver says "Dithion, I feel I have called upon Mielikki
more than usual today during the battle with the Daemons. I would not
wish to risk being too burdensome on her, even though her mercy is
great. I do not feel that I could ask her assistance during any
problems that may ensue because of any problems that we bring upon
ourselves - for a little while at least."

OOC: I'm down to minor spells now. I think us clerics get our spells
     back in one big chunk at midnight, which is a while away yet.

(Tatiana:)
With a heavy sigh.  "It could just be a well preserved fossil in a
crystal.  It's worth looking at, but not worth tinkering with at this
time." "I thought we were going to look for a safe place to rest for a
little before we did any more cleaning out?"

"I respect individual rights.  But it's my right not to help when your
actions threaten my life one too many times." This was directed to
noone in particular, but a general warning to any careless individual,
including herself.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Fine.  When you are all ready to move out, let me
know." He goes and sits down somewhere and begins to meditate, saying
no more.

Dithion out

(Shade:)
Shade sighs, then in a slightly tired tone "Stop that guys. As a group
we need each other.  _BADLY_. We cannot afford to waste energies in
eternal bickering."  He looks at each friend in turn "Every one in a
group MUST know how to forget and forgive. As 'Ana said the past is
past, we must look at the future in a more positive way than we are
doing now.  And, above all, we must accept each other's edge. Keilan:
there is no need to immediately attack Dithion, he just stated his
mind and what his soul is telling him. Dithion: Keilan is not a
jackal, he surely can try to be more patient with your recklessness,"
- the bard winks to Dithion - "but try to be more patient with him
yourself.  Falrun: Arlon is not heartless, he is proud. As almost any
elf is. But in time he will accept friendship is more important than
pride. And he will be back with us."  Shade pauses a split second,
then "And last but not least, Shade: try not to be so patronizing. You
are talking to friends, not little children."  He turns and goes to
sit on a boulder muttering "Even if sometimes...."

(Arlon:)
Arlon is very impressed with the dark one *Perhaps the ruthless drow
have taught you something - how destructive their attitude is.  You
have truly broken free of them.*

*Hmm, I will need to make my peace with Keilan.  I will present my
staff to him as a token of friendship and see how he reacts - I hope
with humility; but I have my doubts.  We cannot continue to bicker,
for it will destroy the group. I should have done something sooner.  I
am not as wise as I would like to think.  I have much to learn from
you Shade, and you Silver.*

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana suppressed a smile in the background as she overheard Shade's
wry comment.  She was still holding her shoulder as if it hurt.

"Okay.  So Dithion, is that ant thing something safe to leave behind?"
"And are we gonna camp soon"

(Dithion:)
Dithion gets up and says, "Just a moment and we will move on.  Oh and
don't worry, I am not going to free it." He chants for a moment
concentrating on the ant thingy.

(Falrun:)
After having said his piece, Falrun walks over to Silver, takes her
off to the side and talks to her quietly not letting anyone overhear.

(Arlon:)
Falrun asks Silver to one side of the cave for a private chat - Arlon
(the spider) scuttles over to hear what is said.

(Falrun:)
Falrun approaches Silver and asks her off to the side so that he may
talk to her privately.  Once on the side he says, "I understand how
you must feel.  I went through the same thing when I first started my
adventuring career.  All that I can say now is, people will do what
they will.  If they stay, they stay.  If they leave, they leave.  I'll
tell you more about it later, but right now I believe that Arlon is
still here.  If you have some means of seeing those who are not
visible, I believe you will be able to prove my theory."

(Arlon:)
Arlon gets a little nervous here and begins to make preparations to
'return' - he is not sure if Silver has the ability or spell to detect
invisibility.

(Falrun:)
"Don't let anyone else get you down."

Falrun then puts his hand on Silver's shoulder and tries to give a
sympathetic look but all that he accomplishes is to give a puzzled
look that says he would like to be sympathetic but doesn't know which
expression to show, or how to show it if he did know.

(Silver:)
When Falrun touches Silver's shoulder, she moves towards him and hugs
him closely. "Ohh, my wise, dear friend. You show such courage, and
yet are neither proud nor hasty. You know, I can't actually see things
that are invisible, and yet I know here ... " at this point she places
her hand over her heart " ... that Arlon is around us, just as I know
that you ... " at this she places her hand over Falrun's heart " ...
have a depth of feeling which rarely surfaces, and is yet all the more
precious when it does."

(Arlon:)
He relaxes now, he can still pick the time for his return.  *Yes
Silver, you are quite wise.*

(Silver:)
Linking arms with him, she heads back to the group "What a mixture we
are, Falrun" Silver chuckles "and yet each one a necessary part of the
whole."

(Arlon:)
*All we need now is a little more testing and maintenance.*

(Dithion:)
Afterwards he says, "We still need to find a cave that would offer
suitable protection."

(Falrun:)
OOC: How far apart is the passage leading off to the left from the one
     that we entered?  As long as they are relatively close together
     Falrun will suggest that we rest here if everyone wants to.  As
     long as one person can keep an eye on both passages and there is
     enough room in this cavern for everyone.

(DM:)
This would be possible ....

(Falrun:)
"We could camp right here. That should give enough of a view and the
person on watch can stay by the tunnel entrances to keep watch.
Hopefully, if we are attacked, we could still use one of the entrances
as an escape route."

(Shade:)
"I agree with the requirements Falrun stated. If the entrances of the
cave are watchable by a single person, then let's camp here."

(Dithion:)
Dithion stops what he is doing and says, "Well, that was pointless."

To Falrun he says, "This place is o.k., but it is not very defensible,
Still if you are all eager to rest, let us do so."

(Falrun:)
After pacing the area, Falrun says, "It should only be about noon.
Since I don't have any spells to memorize, I'll keep watch for the
next six to eight hours or until the spell users are ready to go."  He
then walks over to the two entrances and takes a position that allows
him to see down both tunnels and settles in for a long watch.

(Dithion:)
Dithion plops down on the floor, takes off his pack, pushes it under
him and immediately falls asleep.

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana plopped down onto the floor softly and tried to get
comfortable.

She rested carefully next to the crystal and looked at it casually in
interest.  She tried to relax so she could prepare herself to cast
spells again.

OOC: How do we get spells back again?

(DM:)
Mages get energy to cast spells back, 1 spell-level per half hour of
sleep, and if they want to memorize more spells, that will be an
additional 15 min per spell level....

(Shade:)
OOC: I'll be fully spell-charged in 6.5 hours.

(Keilan:)
"Here will suffice I think."  Keilan leans his staff against one wall
and begins to remove his armor, still hampered by his injured arm.  He
then takes off the cloth shirt beneath and cuts both sleeves off.  The
left one is in tatters from the demon's wrath and he drops it on the
floor.  He sits down and begins slitting the other lengthwise.  When
this is done he flips one end over his shoulder and ties the two ends
together.  He slips his left arm in the sling and checks the knot to
make sure it will hold.

(Silver:)
Silver wanders over closer to the crystal wall looking closely at the
creature trapped within. Returning to those resting, she sits near
Tatiana and Keilan. Smiling at them both when she does so, she delves
into her satchel, bringing out not food, but a small velvet pouch.
Carefully unwrapping the pouch, she will take out seven ivory sticks,
all showing intricately carved animals, just ready to pounce into
attack or flight. She will almost lovingly touch each one in turn and
then move it dextrously between her slender fingers for quite a while,
before flicking it upwards for it to land in front of her.

As the final one lands, she will look at the them on the floor in
front of her, saying

       "All knowing Mielikki,
	Bestow wisdom upon mere mortals,
	Prevent our frailty turning into folly,
	Should we grant freedom to the creature"

OOC: Augury. Any result ?

(DM:)
On the augury part, it comes out neutral. There will not be anything
bad happening when you free the creature, nor will anything good
happen. From looking better at the creature, and from the augury
reading you are getting, you get the feeling that the poor creature
has been dead for all those years, hence freeing it will just free a
dead husk.

(Silver:)
At the end, she will gather the ivory sticks and carefully wrap them
once more in the velvet pouch.

Turning her attention to Keilan and Tatiana, Silver will note once
more their discomfort.  "I left most of my herbal mixtures and balms
back in the Commons, but if you would permit me, I could perhaps ask
once more on your behalf ..." and moving to Tatiana first, she says

       "Gentle, Loving Mielikki, 
	Your child needs Your embrace,
	Show her Your warmth, Your caring"

and moving over to Keilan, she says

       "Your infinite patience is required,
	Your humble servant wishes to act as a channel
	Once more to ease the suffering of a needy soul"

OOC: Cure Light Wounds, Tatiana gets 4hp back, Keilan gets 6hp back 
     Hmm, must have been a better prayer the second time round  8-)

"How do you both feel now ?"

(Keilan:)
"Thank you for your healing skills.  I think my arm is almost whole
again.  I'll leave the sling on though, no need to strain it right
now.  You must teach me of Mielikki and her devotions."

(Silver:)
Silver looks back at Keilan and smiles warmly. "Of course, Keil. When
we get back within Her realm once more." At this, Silver glances
around the cavern and towards the tunnels, frowning. Looking back at
Keilan, she adds "And you must tell me more of Hope. Such a beautiful
name. She is such a lucky child to have an elder brother who thinks so
well of her."

(Keilan:)
He opens a pouch and pulls out a piece of jerky and begins chewing.

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana looked to Keilan askingly. "I forgot to bring anything to eat.
I didn't think we were going to spend the night down here to save
face." "Could I impose and steal a stick to chew on myself?"

(Keilan:)
Keilan rips the piece of jerky he's chewing on in half and extends the
fresh half to Tatiana.  Around a large piece still in his mouth he
says, "This is all I've got, but you're welcome to it.  I'm not
planning to be here long."

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana gnawed on the jerky stick for a while.  "Thanks Keil.  You
don't mind if I call you that do you?"

(Silver:)
"Oh, and Keilan, if you have just a little of that food left, I would
be grateful."

(Keilan:)
To Silver: "Sorry, I'm out of jerky.  I only brought it to stave off
hunger for myself.  I'm not used to traveling with others.  Well, not
others who don't bring their own food.  I'll buy some more when we're
done down here.

(Silver:)
Silver looks a little embarrassed at this, eyes averted. She thinks to
herself that for one who is supposed to be "wise" she hadn't shown
much foresight by coming down here without food.

(Tatiana:)
She rolled over a plumped her backpack under her head and fell fast
asleep.  Sleeping sounder than Dithion for she never woke up. :)

(Shade:)
The drow looked at his companions' hungry faces. "Hmm, if we plan to
spend here about eight hours, I can spend one trying to find something
to eat. The underworld is not completely barren, and not everything
you meet is eager and capable to kill you." Shade checks his weapons
and takes out a sack from his pack. "I'll be back in an hour or less.
May your dreams be pleasant" - then to Falrun - "thank you, Falrun, if
I succeed in finding some food shortly I'll give you the chance to
rest for a while. We all need some rest, you fought as hard as anyone
else, the fact you have no spell to memorize does not make you
impervious to fatigue."  He makes a slight, respectful, bow to his
friend "See you soon, Falrun."

(Dithion:)
Dithion sits up suddenly, wipes his eyes, and says to Shade, "Hold on,
friend.  Don't wander off ... that is a good way to get killed.  I will
summon food from Des."

(Falrun:)
Concerning Shade's offer to find food, "Dithion is right, Shade.  We
should all stay together now.  We don't even know if this is a typical
underground complex or if it harbors something much more dangerous."

(Dithion:)
He chants for a moment and then food appears...it looks like common
travelers fare...bread, water, cheese and the like.  
(DM: create food and water)

Dithion smiles and says, "Des is generous, but he will not be generous
with me anymore today."

He falls back over and goes to sleep.

(Shade:)
The drow starts thanking Dithion, but then, seeing he is not listening
anymore (snooore;) he shudders glancing quizzically at the rest of the
companions.  "Well guys, thanks to the generosity of Des and Dithion,
let's have a snack."

(Falrun:)
After Dithion creates food Falrun takes his share and goes back to
watching the tunnels.  While watching, he takes out his swords and
starts cleaning and sharpening them.  He also takes off his leather
armor to clean it up and let it dry.  His long sleeve cotton shirt has
blood stains on the sleeves up to the elbows.  Falrun examines them,
shrugs his shoulders, and keeps on working on his other equipment.

Once he is done with his swords, he will sit on the floor in a
position to see down both tunnels and wait for his armor to dry.  He
will sit with his cloak over him, head slightly bowed, trying to blend
in as best as he can with the natural surroundings.

(Silver:)
After Dithion creates food, Silver goes and sits next to him. He
awakes, and they start to talk about Des, Dithion's deity ...

(Dithion:)
Des is a god of exploration, traveling, and new experiences.  His
tenets are fairly lenient for the lay person.  He requires very
little, except that his followers travel, explore (adventure), or try
new experiences (this can eventually lead to the worship of some of
the darker gods, as some followers focus on this aspect of Des, and
then become jaded, moving to stranger and stranger experiences).
Priests of Des assert that all adventurers do Des honor and homage
each time they go adventuring, even if they are unaware of Des.  Some
say that all pay homage to Des each time they open their front doors,
for each day is new.  Whether this is true or not is unknown, Des
isn't saying.

(Silver:)
"I have heard that Des requires little from his followers, but are you
among those who are favoured by Him and receive gifts from Him ? I ask
this because you gave us His blessing on the palisade, and you
mentioned that you may be able to call on divine light in the tunnel."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Oh yes.  I dedicated my life to him five years ago,
when I ran away from home.  I met a wandering priest, and we traveled
together for 3 years...he was my guide on that journey."  He smiles as
if remembering pleasant times.

(Silver:)
"Ohh Dithion", Silver says, looking sympathetic and reaching out to
touch his arm, "I understand only too well, for I also left home when
I was young - I could stand it no longer - and I too met with one
wiser then myself, who introduced me to the glories of nature"

(Dithion:)
Dithion smiles and says, "Sounds like our backgrounds are somewhat
similar...just to think, only those in higher places made the
difference.  I wonder why your goddess chose you, and my god chose me.
I suppose our personal disposition has made the difference."  He
smiles again at that.

(Silver:)
"I am glad we have more than just myself who is able to accept gifts
from on high to ease pain and suffering. And also one who is more
comfortable with journeys underground."  Silver says with a shudder.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "I understand how you feel.  I was glad of your presence
during and after the battle.  Since you were able to tend to our party
members I was able to go out and see to the villagers.  As for the
underground...I have journeyed in places akin to this before but I am
not totally comfortable.  It takes a while I am told, but I solace
myself with the fact that is a place that is new and yet unexplored."
He seems to get excited as he says the last bit, and a happy gleam
comes into his eyes.  Then he pauses and says, "However, I find it
curious that you do not feel more comfortable down here.  I mean, your
goddess is mostly unknown to me, but I thought she was the goddess of
nature.  It seems to me that this place would be within her domain as
well...the streams, the fungi, the lichen, and it's wild beasts.
Still, I say this out of ignorance for I know her not, so please do
not take offense at my words."

(Silver:)
"The realm of Mielikki is above ground, under the open sky. The dark
here does not bother me, for I love the nighttime, among forests.
However, down here, things seem somehow ...  less wholesome ... if you
know what I mean. I do not feel the gentle touch of Mielikki down
here"

(Dithion:)
He frowns and says, "Oh, I did not realize that.  That must be truly
horrible for you...I am sorry, but must say that you are handling it
very well.  Better than I might, I must admit."

(Silver:)
"But I have also certain unpleasant memories from my childhood which
involve being ..."  she shudders "... shut underground. Being down
here brings back those thoughts. Still, the strength of my companions
helps a lot - at least I am not alone." with that, she smiles.

(Dithion:)
He frowns again, and says, "I think I understand...my youth was not a
happy one, and it sounds as if you had the same type of problems.  If
you ever feel a need to talk it out, just know that I am here for
you...as is everyone at this time no doubt."

(Silver:)
"Thank you, Dithion. That means a lot to me"

(Dithion:)
He smiles again, although there seems to be a hint of sadness in his
eyes.  He says, "Well, all this talk of the past...I must say, very
nostalgic."  He laughs and seems to come back to normal.

(Silver:)
"One thing that puzzles me, though. You were talking with the other
mages about 'trading spells'. This has always seemed strange to me,
relying on powers that are not gifts from on high - and yet you seem
to have both gifts given to you and these other more ... arcane
powers. Does this not cause a conflict within you ? I don't believe I
could ever bring myself to use such powers." Silver looks slightly
confused, but very interested about this seeming conflict.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Ah, my mage abilities.  That is something I learned
before I left home...all in my family learn a skill at a very early
age, and I was trained in magic.  As for the conflict...nay, for the
magic has been a great benefit.  It has taken me places I could not
normally go, and aided those in need.  Once again, I would think you
would especially embrace it...for it is like a river.  The magic flows
around us naturally.  It is there before it was ever used, and will be
there after we are all gone.

(Silver:)
"What a beautiful description, Dithion. I can see now how the magics
in you do not conflict with one another. I also now appreciate what
using magic must be like. I should imagine that the arcane lore of
magic must involve extreme powers of will so as not to get carried
away with the power - with Mielikki's gifts I find myself being swept
along, yet knowing I am safe."

(Dithion:)
"Anyway, Des seems to have no problem with it."  He smiles and winks,
and then says, "Does your Goddess have tenets against it's use?"

(Silver:)
"Hmmm, I have never really thought about it before now, although I
have never heard of Druids involving themselves in such matters. I
have no doubt that Mielikki would welcome those who studied in the
magical arts, yet I could not imagine spending so long studying
ancient lore. I would feel I had turned my back on Mielikki. No, I
think magical arts must remain a closed book to me, although they are
now less of a mystery than before. Thank you Dithion" and Silver smiles
once more, now very relaxed and comfortable with Dithion.

"From what you say, you seem as suited to Des as I am to Mielikki"

(Silver:)
Meta: I find this worship stuff quite difficult to role-play, since I
      am personally not religious at all. If it starts getting
      annoying (to you as a *player*), let me know?

(Dithion:)
Meta: I know exactly what you mean.  It is kind of awkward, but it is
      fun to role play. :)



Party members rest, meditate and study ...

(Keilan:)
Afterwards he readies himself for sleep on the hard ground. "No
campfire today, I think."

(Silver:)
Silver sits quite still, eyes closed, and back straight. She frowns at
first, her lips moving as she mutters softly to herself. Slowly her
expression changes, and her face lights up. Occasionally, she frowns
slightly again, but soon she is breathing deeply, smiling. "Yes,
that's right. That's perfect !" Silver says, almost breathlessly, eyes
still closed.



A surprise visitor arrives ....

(Arlon:)
Arlon begins to make preparations to 'reappear'.  *It looks like it is
time to show myself, lets see how things have turned out.*

He first moves to the entrance from where the group came into this
chamber.  He first transforms back to himself.  He then secures the
trident in his belt, he then gets ready to make a small vertical jump.
*I'll need to time this right to maintain the effect.  This should
make some of them jump.* He takes hold of the ring and then jumps, he
removes his ring just near the top of his jump and he pops into view
about 1 foot off the ground.

(Falrun:)
As Arlon appears out of nowhere, Falrun is startled and jumps a little
but quickly realizes what is going on and settles back down with a
look of 'it figures' on his face.

(Arlon:)
"Now where ..." (in a puzzled tone) he then turns his head - "I must
practice that more."  (cheerful tone) "So how is it going guys!  Yes,
I have been watching - in my own way - as some of you had guessed"

"Sorry about popping out like that, I needed some time to think."

"There are several of us that seem to bicker with each other
constantly, we have different views and philosophies.  I enjoy banter;
but when it leads to bickering, it is pointless.  I have been a main
ingredient into this problem and for that I am sorry.  I try to speak
with wisdom, sometimes in too much riddle, but I have noticed I do not
act the wisdom I speak and that IS foolishness.  Shade, Silver, I bow
to your wisdom; very few times have I been in the company as one's
such as you.  I am happy to be back, I have missed you ALL."

(Shade:)
Shade steps near the mage "And we are happy to have you back, Arlon,"
- the drow smiles gently squeezing Arlon's left shoulder with his hand
- "we have missed you, really."

(Arlon:)
Arlon then moves over to the ant-man.  "Oh yes, this is very
interesting.  This creature has not been seen for millennia.  Before
the humans came to the realms, these creatures and the elves lived in
harmony.  When the humans came, they tried to destroy these creatures;
because of this they moved away, so far away that they were
practically forgotten - so this is were they came to.  The coloration
is different than I remember, hmmm, maybe an adaptation.  Mendahl
would be very interested in this.  When we get back I will tell Mindak
and Mendahl of this.  It is best we do not disturb this."

OOC: Again, it is nice to be back.

(Shade:)
"So you know this is a kind and reliable creature? Hmmm, thus
_TOMORROW_ we can try to feel if it's still alive, and free it in that
case. Otherwise, we can sell this interesting fossil to Mendahl."

(Arlon:)
"It's ancestors were good creatures, but I have no idea what this one
may have been like.  It was over 3000 years ago since they left and
this continent seems to corrupt things."

"In any case, freeing it would be best left to those more capable than
us.  Have you ever tried to free a trapped animal, they would attack
first and ask questions later, so to speak - with perhaps the
exception of Keilan and Silver."

(Keilan:)
After Arlon appears and throws out a discourse on the ant-dude:

(speaking elvish once again, so a few of you might miss this) "I
apologize for striking you, Arlon.  I seem to have fared the worst
against the demons and I was not in the mood for discussion when you
spoke to me outside.  I ... I will try to contain myself in the
future.  It rather upset me when you asked me to reenter the battle
when I was standing there with my arm battered into uselessness.  When
I used to grow angry from my sisters' torments, I would break
something, but my father was not a wealthy man and could not abide the
destruction of his property.  He taught me it was better to strike at
the root of the problem rather than releasing my anger at something
else.  He said too that it was far more effective at conveying one's
desires.  That I have never been able to refute."

(Arlon:)
Arlon to Keilan (in elvish):
"I think you took the strike part a bit to literal." he says with a
smile

"Just to clarify, I was only asking if you wanted to, I was not
expecting you to re-enter battle.  Many warriors I knew would feel
useless if they could not affect a battle, my brothers for two, so I
was just giving you an option.  But that is in the past now, we will
continue to learn of each other."

"I have something else to discuss with you that will require a more
private setting than this."

(Keilan:)
"Anytime you wish."

(Arlon:)
"Very good, perhaps during our rest here.  Back at the Temple when I
was examining the secret door, I thought I heard one of us speak
dwarven - was it you?  If so we could use that tongue."

(Keilan:)
(in elvish) "Yes, I was talking to Mindak in his native tongue.
Sometimes I think it's the only words a dwarf can really hear."

(in dwarven) "It helps to know how to converse with many people when
you range as far and wide as I have."

(in common) "So take your pick." (smirk)

Arlon (in dwarven):
"Dwarven it will be then, I chose to converse with many races also,
all of which have interesting histories.

After a short nap we can have a chat."

(Silver:)
Silver adds a comment, speaking in Elvish herself (albeit slowly and
with a strange accent) "Arlon, friend, I would also require a talk
with you over a matter which you could help me with ... and which you
might also find intriguing."

OOC: This is the first time anyone here would have heard her speak
     this language.

(Arlon:)
"Ok Silver, if now is a good time; I think Keilan and I will talk a
little later."

(Silver:)
Still speaking in Elvish, quite hesitantly and badly accented, Silver
walks a little way with Arlon, and says "It's about my ... umm, I mean
Tier Breche's staff. Such a powerful yet humble man." She pauses a
moment in memory, holding the unicorn-headed staff gently - was it
only such a short time ago he made his sacrifice ?

"The trouble is that I know so little about his staff. I know there
are runic phrases inscribed on it in helixes, one trinity for harm,
one trinity for healing. I do not know, however, if I am draining the
staff of its life by using it, or whether it can be recharged, or only
used so often each day. I know the healing spells are directed at
different types of suffering, but I do not know the exact nature of
the harm runes."

Looking at Arlon apprehensively, she says "I wish to use it as Tier
would have done, as he would wish it to be used. I do not feel I have
the wisdom yet to give his memory justice."

(DM:)
Arlon regretfully shakes his head on the staff. Though his general
understanding of magical items is great, and that of wizardly items
vast, he knows little of the forces involved in the creation and
sustenance of those items of a priestly nature.

(Arlon:)
Arlon is concentrating hard on Silvers words and the staff, "A very
interesting item and powerful one indeed.  As far as the staffs
properties, it is difficult to say if it is being drained or if it can
be recharged - most of the staves I know of have charges and are
drained with use of its powers with the more powerful magic draining
the item faster.  Most staves are also rechargeable; but I could not
say with this staff.  Dithion may be able to help you in that area.
He has a spell, I opted not to learn at this time, that gives
information on an item imprinted on it from previous users.  It is a
physically draining spell however, it would probably be best to do
after this excursion."

OOC: As a player you probably know most of this; but I just want to
     stay in character.  Whisper could tell us if Arlon would know
     more.  Now to continue the convo.

(Silver:)
"I see. I will ask Dithion if he can provide me with the knowledge I
seek."

Arlon (he will say warmly):
"As far as your wisdom to handle such an item, I see no problem there.
Your humility and actions show a wisdom that I have known very few to
possess.  You will do his memory justice, of that I am sure."

(Silver:)
Silver looks a little surprised, and slightly embarrassed by Arlon's
words. Reverting to Common, she says "Why thank you. I just hope that
when Mielikki calls me eventually, I may depart in a similar way."

(Silver:)
Going to Dithion, Silver will ask "Dithion, my friend, thank you once
again for providing such a feast. However, I have need of your other
talents. I seek knowledge, and like yourself, do not wish to
overburden my Goddess with trivial requests. Arlon tells me that you
can sense information about a magical item" with this she indicates
the unicorn-headed staff "left by its previous owner - in this case,
Tier Breche. I would not wish to stress you overly, but I do think you
would be interested in examining the item and finding out such
secrets."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Tier Breche?  Hmmm, I would be glad to examine this
staff for you...however, do you need to know now, or can it wait until
after this expedition ? The process can be a little risky, so I would
prefer to wait, but I have no problem with examining it."

(Silver:)
"Of course, there is no desperate hurry. Perhaps when we get back to
the village, we can arrange to explore the forest a little. I think
that we would both enjoy that ...  discovering hidden glades, finding
areas of land as yet untouched."

(Dithion:)
After the talk with Silver, Dithion again returns to sleep. 

(Keilan:)
Keilan also takes an opportune moment to sample Dithion's food.  He
stands over Dithion's deeply sleeping body muttering, "How does he
move so quickly in and out of dreams??"

(Arlon:)
After the talk about the crystal is over and Silver's discussion with
Arlon is complete - Arlon will grab some food and settle down for some
rest.

(Tatiana:)
6 hours passed and she woke up with a start as if an alarm had gone
off.

* Wake up! * An alarm of sorts had gone off.  It was Tuft. * When are
you coming out of that hell hole?"

* We haven't even started exploring it much yet. *

* WHAT!?! * the disbelief was clear even in the telepathic
communication.

* The battle with the demons was rough and the others thought it wise
to complete our mission before leaving.  So we camped first, to
recover *

* I can't believe you humanoids!  You're so vain! *

Tatiana gave a mental shrug.

* Fine.  I'm going out looking for mice. *

With that the telepathic communication was over.

Tatiana got up and stretched.  The cave was pretty quiet.  Most were
relaxing or studying the crystal encased ant.  The mages were studying
and she felt obliged to do so as well.  Opening up her backpack she
pulled out her spell book and started to study.

A few minutes later she quit because of her stomach growling.  She
noticed the food Dithion had created and helped herself to it.

"Thanks Dith'  I owe you one."

(Dithion:)
After a couple hours, Dithion awakes and he gets out a spell book.

He takes some of the food he created and begins to eat it, a
thoughtful look on his face.  Then he says to the group.  "I suggest
we all try to sleep and head out after midnight.  That way, we all
regain our spells, and we will be ready to go.  Of course, that will
throw our sleeping schedule off a bit, but hey that is ok with me.
What say the rest of you?"

(Arlon:)
After a few hours rest, he would get up and see if it is a good time
to talk with Keilan and then get some more rest until the party is
ready to move on - to go down the tunnel I suppose.

Arlon, after several hours of sleep, will get up and go through his
spell books for about an hour.  Every once in a while looking up and
around.  Seeing that Keilan may be at least semi-awake, Arlon will go
over to Keilan, put his staff down and sit next to Keilan and then
begin to talk in dwarven.

(Tatiana:)
She spotted Arlon across the cave and caught his attention briefly.
She mouthed "Good to see you" and thought he understood.

She sat back down gnawing on some cheese and bread and started to
study again.

OOC 2 1/4 hours later she will have studied.
    3 magic missiles
    2 melf's acid arrows
    1 mirror image

She got tired of studying and decided she didn't really need to
replace any of her third level spells yet and shut the book.

She got up to stretch again. Her long black hair cascading down her
back shimmered from the crystal's reflected light.



So the party rest for quite a while in this strange cavern. Some
meditating, others learning spells, others simply taking the time to
rest and sleep ....

(DM:)
During your waiting/resting/studying period, nothing happens, no
attacks, or strange phenomena appear, so.... Also, those who slept
will have d2 hps back from natural healing.  If you want to discuss
what to do next, I will assume that that will still be part of the
eight hours you guys camped out, so go ahead and decide what to do
next and let me know!

(Silver:)
OOC: Rest gives Silver back 2hp (she is only 4hp down now)

(DM:)
Okay, after resting for 8 hours, it will be about 9pm, so that is
still 3 hours away from regaining priestly spells.

(Falrun:)
Once everyone starts getting up and signs of life return to the camp,
Falrun will put on his leather armor after it is dry and stretch his
legs for a minute.  He will then walk over to the crystal and
reexamine it.

"Any one have any suggestions on how to free this creature from this
crystal shell?  I suppose we could try a nice solid blow from a large
heavy object.  Any other suggestions?"

(Silver:)
Silver comes over to where Falrun is examining the creature, and says
"I am afraid, Falrun, that freeing this creature would not give it
liberty. I sense that it's soul - whether good or evil - has long
since departed this place. What lies within is long since dead. Like a
fly trapped within amber, perhaps."

(Shade:)
"Well, we may be sorry for him/her/it, but this will allow us to not
worry about freeing the creature. We may just sell this now as just an
unusual fossil to Mendahl."

(Silver:)
"This is true, Shade. But sometimes the beauty of a fly trapped in
amber is precisely because it is trapped in amber. If you found such a
rare item, would you crack open the amber to release the dead fly ?"
This is said in a gentle, inquiring tone.

(Shade:)
"No, no Silver" - replies the drow - "I did not mean to break the
crystal prison of this creature. If he/she/it is surely dead there is
no purpose in doing so.  We can better sell it 'as it is'. I'm sure
Mendahl will easily get it in his tower with the whole crystal."

(Arlon:)
"Yes Shade, Mendahl should be very interested in this, and since its
life force has left, as Silver has said, I see no reason to free it -
if we could.  We could also let Mendahl handle that if he wants.  The
crystal may be of interest be it magical or natural."

(Silver:)
"Coming from the underworld, do you recognize this crystal that
trapped the creature so long ago ?" Silver says, touching the crystal
wall as she says this.

(Shade:)
OOC: Whisper? Do I know anything about it? Please, give a kind answer
     to Silver for me.

(DM:)
Shade looks dubiously at the crystal, but cannot remember ever having
seen its like, even in the deep reaches of the underdark.

(Falrun:)
After everyone has completed their spell memorization or whatever,
Falrun will say, "If everyone is ready, I suggest we head down the
next passage.  I again will take the point, waiting when I find
trouble or when a decision has to be made on which way to go."

When everyone is packed up again and ready, Falrun will lead the way
down the tunnel approx. 50' ahead as before.

(Shade:)
"I'd like to stay with you, Falrun" - says the bard - "I'm not as
stealthy as you are, but I know the underworld fairly well." - then,
with a lopsided smile and a slight shrug he adds a - "after all, I'm a
cave creature."

(Tatiana:)
"All right let's finish this job and get out of here!". She let
Dithion and Falrun lead the way.

Hanging back by Arlon and Keilan, she says to them both "It's good to
see you guys have patched things up.

(Dithion:)
Dithion arises, and hefts his club, he says, "I am ready."

He follows Falrun at a distance of 10-30 feet, being as silent as
possible.



And so the party, complete once more, set out just after midnight ....

(DM:)
I also assume that you guys explore the second tunnel from this
chamber. (not the one you came through).

Falrun goes on up ahead, followed by about 20' by Dithion, and then
the rest of the gang.  Suddenly Falrun stops and puts up his hand for
caution, Dithion quickly comes up to him while the others hang back
depending on the signal Dithion and Falrun will give (or not if you so
decide of course :).