GM: Last time we left off, you were all brought forward to plead your case to the dwarven council of Thanes on behalf of the refugees that were freed from Pax Tharkas. You now wait outside in a lobby while the Thanes discuss in private what to do.
Arman: My father is a wise dwarf. He�ll make the right decision, and he has enough strength on the council to push it through.
Taurus: I find it curious they would allow a representative of their enemy to sit at the council. I would be surprised if a great deal of fights did not break out between them or as a result of hypocracy.
Taurus: I hope so Arman, many lives depend on their decision.
Arman: aye. There is alot of political manuvering that goes on. The clans have always made up the council, and it is the High King that is the most prized seat. Unfortunately, it has sat empty for hundreds of years.
Taurus: Why is this? Should not a High King be chosen?
Taurus: Did the previous have no heir?
Taurus: Forgive my ignorance in Dwarven polotics.
Vexin Sixtoes: No hair? must be a funny looking dwarf
Taurus looks at Vexin oddly.
Vexin Sixtoes: The No-hair king
Gilthanas: The seat has sat empty for it is he who possess the Hammer of Kharas that holds the right to the throne.
Arman: The seat has sat empty for it is he who possess the Hammer of Kharas that holds the right to the throne.
Vexin Sixtoes , bored, begins dumping out his pouches and perusing his collection of trinkets
Taurus: Really.. the Hammer of Kharas...
Taurus looks thoughtful.
Taurus: Where would this hammer be?
Vexin Sixtoes: If they knew, someone would be king I think
Arman: It is in Duncan's tomb, or at least it is believed to be.
Taurus: Why has no dwarf retrieved it?
Zhage half listens to the converstation, appearently deep in his own thoughts.
Arman: the tomb is not accessable. It is impossible to retrive it...
Eben: uh, your name is Kharas... were you named after the hammer
Arman Stands up straight and puffs his chest out proudly.
Vexin Sixtoes finds a Batwing Crunchie from his pouches, excited that they were not all gone as he had thought, and beings munching on it
Arman: I am named after Kharas. Kharas is the greatest dwarf off all time, and i am Kharas, reincarnate.
Vexin Sixtoes (while crunching away): Why haven't you found the Hammer o' mighty Kharas?
Arman pats his chest with his fist.
Taurus watches Arman with some measure of speculation, nodding some.
Vexin Sixtoes spits out a wing bone
Taurus: That is indeed a great title, Arman. Perhaps it should be you who retrieves the Hammer and unites the Dwarven clans.
Vexin Sixtoes: I wanna see this spooky tomb!
Arman: as I said, the tomb is impossible to reach... No dwarf has been able to reach the tomb, and so the hammer remains lost to us.
Arman laughs at Vexin
Vexin Sixtoes: Reach it? Why is it hard to reach?
Taurus: I do remember, not so long ago, that many did not believe in the existance of the True Gods. Or Dragons, for that matter.
Arman: perhaps in time, you will. Provided that the council concludes with a favourable descion for you.
Taurus: These are changing times Arman.
Arman (seriously): The dwarves of Thorbardin never lost faith. We know the gods have left, but we did not forget.
Vexin Sixtoes: Right, you can't forget when every dwarf curses using the name of Reorx!
Arman: this is true, my friend! And Reorx will one day hear our pleas to curse our enemies!
Arman grins widely
Vexin Sixtoes laughs
Vexin Sixtoes re-packs his pouches and tries to peek through the doors into the council hall
Taurus: I would like to learn more of Reorx. When we have the time available I would wish to converse with your Loreholders.
You wait for what must be an hour outside the council chamber. The guards at the door ensure that Vexin's prying eyes cannot get in, but after a long wait, the doors slowly swing open. Arman looks to the rest of you and makes his way through the doors.
Vexin Sixtoes cheerily hums a death march as he follows Arman inside
Taurus stands, dusting down the more formal of his clothes; though still worn from travel. He steps inside behind the group, eyes searching for the Thanes for any hint at their decision.
The Thanes all wait with patience until you are all inside. The doors close behind you and the chamber falls silent. at this point, Hornfel stands and addresses the delegate for the refugee's of Pax Tharkas.
Hornfel: It is true that you humans brought the Cataclysm upon the world, and it is true that the Neidar made war on Thorbardin. But dark times are here again, and ancient grudges must not control our destiny. Here is the decision of the Council: whosoever recovers the Hammer of Kharas, that person will the dwarves of Thorbardin befriend. If you agree to our terms, and bring the hammer to us, your people may pass. There is one other condition�one of your party remain here as a hostage for your safe return.
Hornfel points squarely at Eben, indicating that he shall be the hostage kept.
Eben: wha-- me?!
Eben: Taurus, I...
Taurus looks towards Eben, surprise clearly written on his face, turning his attention back to Hornfel.
Taurus: Lord Hornfel. I do not question the wisdom of the Thanes, nor your honorable intentions, but you have my word that no misdeeds shall pass whilst I still draw breath.
Taurus: If the word of a Solamnic Knight means anything to this great Council you will allow us to keep our companion to aid us in our task.
Hornfel: These are the terms that the Council has come to. If they are not accepted, then you only have one alternative...
Vexin Sixtoes (whispers to Taurus): Finally! We're free of that guy for a while!
Hornfel gives a dark look to Raelgar
Raelgar smiles and stands
Taurus frowns at Vexin before looking back to the council and Raelgar.
Vexin Sixtoes grins at Taurus
Raelgar: if you do not accept this descion, you will be imprissoned to await trial for tresspass and... MURDER!
Vexin Sixtoes: WHAT?
Raelgar says the word "murder" with all the vigor he can muster
Taurus: Should we agree to your terms, I will have you assurance that Eben will be given the same hospitality and luxury you have afforded on us during our stay and..
Taurus becomes quite serious, locking eyes with Hornfel before continueing.
Taurus: .. no.. harm shall come of him until our return.
Vexin Sixtoes (mutters to himself): well... accidents DO happen...
Hornfel: Your friend shall not be harmed, this the council deems to be so.
Taurus looks to Eben.
Taurus: Is this satisfactory, friend?
Vexin Sixtoes: So! On to the spooky tomb!
Eben clearly looks nervous but remains quiet
Taurus places a hand on Eben's shoulder and gives it a firm reassuring squeeze before turning his attention back to the dwarves.
Taurus: We shall return your Hammer.
Vexin Sixtoes: So, is it ok or not Eben?
Taurus: But we have a condition of our own.
Taurus: We require one of your own, as hostage, for the journey.
Taurus: It is only fair.
Taurus smiles.
Arman: I shall come with you.
Arman steps forward
Taurus nods to Arman, looking back to those of the Thanes.
Hornfel (nodding): as you wish. Arman shall accompany you.
Arman: I also request that Korto be sent with us on this quest. Taurus wishes to learn more of Rerox and I am sure Korto can learn something from this knight.
Hornfel: yes, it is a splendid idea, Arman. We shall have Korto summoned to their quarters.
Taurus looks at Arman once more, somewhat curious about his request but stays silent on the matter. Feeling quite bad that Eben is forced to stay here but deep down knowing that it is for the best.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hmm, I can summon animals, but I don't think dwarves count
Vexin Sixtoes: Maybe Aghar...
Hornfel: You have accepted this quest. The Hammer lies with in the Valley of Thanes, the burial grounds of dwarven royalty and nobility.
Taurus: In Duncan's tomb?
Hornfel: The hammer could lie within Duncan's tomb. It is only rumored to be there. I see that my son has told you his thoughts of where the hammer lies.
Hornfel: We also request that you take the Helm of Grallen. Thank you for returning it to it's home here in Thorbardin. If you would leave it in the tomb of Grallen so that the prince may finally find peace. The helm may also become of some use to you in your quest.
Vexin Sixtoes: Are you sure Eben doesn't want to wear it again?
Vexin Sixtoes giggles
Taurus nods some, inclining his head to the dwarf.
Eben glares at Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes grins wide
Taurus: As you wish Lord hornfel. If there is nothing more I would like to get underway; we have wasted too much vital time already. I would have the Hammer to you before the end of the morrow.
Vexin Sixtoes: Well, aren't you optimistic?
Hornfel raises his hand, and two dwarves enter the chamber. One carries a drum, the other a scroll. Together, they begin to chant a song as they lead you out of the council chamber.
The Two Dwarves: Three were the thoughts of those in Thorbardin In the dark after Dergoth when the ogres danced. One was the lost light, the limping darkness In the caves of the kingdom where light crumbles.
The Two Dwarves: One the despair of the Dwarfthane Derkin Gone to the gloom of the tower of Glory. One the world, weary and wounded Down to the deep of the Darkling�s waters.
The Two Dwarves: Under the heart of the highland, Under the ceiling of stone, Under the wane of the world�s glory, Home under home.
The Two Dwarves: Then was Kharas among us, the Keeper of Kings, The Hand on the Hammer, Arm of the Hylar. At the gleaming grave site of gold and garnet Three sons of the thane he buried thereunder.
The Two Dwarves: While Derkin saw dark upon dark in the tunnels, In the halls of the nation saw nooses and knives, Killers and kingmakers came to Kharas With agate and amethyst, asking allegiance.
Zhage holds his head while muttering "Why must they always send in singing dwarves
The Two Dwarves: Under the heart of the highland, Under the ceiling of stone, Under the wane of the world�s glory, Home under home.
The Two Dwarves: But the stalwart in heart is strong as a stone, And bold and unbending his mind to the better: The Hammer of Hylar was firm in the halls. Denying all discord, all doubt and division.
The Two Dwarves: He turned from intrigue, from the wild tunnels, Out to the open, one oath swearing That time nor treachery shall ever tarnish The Hammer�s return in a time of great troubles.
The Two Dwarves: Under the heart of the highland, Under the ceiling of stone, Under the wane of the world�s glory, Home under home.
Taurus departs the chamber in an orderly fashion as he listens to the song; somewhat curious about its lyrics. He looks around to his companions once outside of the hall.
The two dwarves complete they're chanting but the drum continues to sound. The two dwarves part and stand on either side of the council chamber doors. Arman strides out and heads to your rooms.
Taurus: Arman, have your dwarf meet us as soon as possible. We'll be heading out promptly.
Arman: He shall be summoned shortly. We will be ready when you are.
Taurus: Excellant. The rest of you pack a light pack, enough rations for 3 days. We're moving out the instant we're ready.
Zhage: What about the pilfered gold Taurus.
You arrive back at the suite and begin to prepare for the journey.
Vexin Sixtoes: Pilfered? I'm sure he just found it
Taurus: Leave it here, it will only slow us down. I am sure Arman's men will take care of it for us.
Zhage (quietly to Taurus): I don't exactly trust Eben to watch it.
Taurus (Quietly): Its not like he can go anywhere with it..
Zhage (Quietly): Good point.
Eben walks over to Taurus and Zhage.
Taurus looks up to Eben.
Taurus: Thank you for doing this Eben, you do a great survice to your people.
Eben: Why on Krynn did they pick me? I don't like it here... it's... to enclosed.
Taurus: I have no idea, it is a shame to loose you to this task. You've proven yourself quite a capable combatant.
Vexin Sixtoes: Arman, is there a place I can exchange steel for gems?
Zhage muffles a laugh/
Arman: There are many places, but it may take some time...
Zhage (coughing): Sorry. Don't know where that came from.
Taurus: I have a task for you whilst we are away. We need to prepare for the refugee's. Can you organise adequite lodgings and supplies for them; use of the horde you require.
Eben: I suppose I can...
Taurus pats his shoulder and leans forward to whisper something to Eben.
Taurus nods to Vexin.
Zhage removes his crossbow and bolts from his pack and leaves them with Eben.
Eben grins slightly and nods to the knight.
Eben: good luck on this quest gents!
Zhage: Don't think I'll need these. Keep an eye on it will you.
Eben: certainly, Zhage.
Taurus pats his shoulder and goes about removing the heavier items from his pack. Eyeing the longsword he had taken from skullcap he slides it into his belt; knowing it will come in handy in a tomb.
Taurus: Perhaps we should use the helm of Grallen to ask where the Hammer is most likely to be.
Vexin Sixtoes: Arman said he knows there the tomb of Duncan is
Zhage walks as far away from the helm as possible.
Taurus: Aye, but an aged perceptive might assist on the hammer's discovery.
Arman: It is hard to miss.
Vexin Sixtoes: So have Eben put it on again
Taurus: Eben. Would you do us this honor? One last time?
Vexin Sixtoes ginrs
Arman gives out a jovial laugh
Vexin Sixtoes: As I recall, I did the honor for him last tim
Eben: no way!
Eben backs up against the wall.
Taurus frowns.
Vexin Sixtoes: We don;t need anyonoe to put it on
Taurus: Eben, please. You're the natural choice. It won't be long, I promise.
Eben: What if I can't come back? What if I end up being the dwarf prince forever?
Zhage muttered It'd be an improvement.
Taurus: You'll be rich beyond your wildest dreams?
Eben: I don't want to be some stuffy old dwarf for the rest of my life!
Taurus: It wont happen.
Eben: How can you be sure?
Taurus: Grallen wishes to rest, he would not take over your body.
Taurus: Trust me.
Taurus smiles.
Taurus: Have I ever led you astray?
Eben: Maybe he'll like it and decide not to switch back?
Taurus: No. I don't think so.
Eben lowers his shoulders and lets out a heavy sigh.
Eben: alright, but for only a minute. any longer, and you forceably take the helmet off, understand?
Taurus: I give you my word.
Taurus takes the helm, offers it to him, smiles.
Eben takes the helmet and rises it to his head. He stops inches above and lowers it back to his chest.
Eben (sternly): I'm serious.... not a second longer.
Taurus: Only a minute.
Taurus nods firmly.
Zhage can't help but laugh quietly.
Eben slowly raises the helmet back to his head. He squints his eyes closed tightly as if he were about to be tackled by a raging ogre. He quickly thrusts the helm down onto his mop of hair.
Taurus holds his breath, watching on anxiously.
Vexin Sixtoes: ere we go again...
Eben stands there for a few seconds, his hands still pulling down on either side of the helm. He opens one eye and looks around. Then his other eye opens. Then Eben grins from ear to ear.
Eben: Hey! nothing happened!
Taurus frowns.
Taurus: Are you sure? give it a moment.
Taurus walks over, inspects the helm. Taps it.
Taurus: Maybe its broken...
Vexin Sixtoes: Magic's gone
Vexin Sixtoes: Tapping it just makes you look like a monkey
Eben lowers his arms and stands waiting. His smile still plastered across his face.
Eben: maybe he's sleeping?
Vexin Sixtoes: Eh...
Taurus: Perhaps it only works once on each person.
Taurus looks towards... Zhage.
Vexin Sixtoes looks at Eben like he's look like a dog with substandard intelligence
Zhage looks at Taurus and shakes his head.
Zhage: Let's see... metal armor would make a good conductor..
Taurus laughs, though perhaps.. just perhaps.. a nervous tone in it.
Zhage: I'll look at it, but not put it on.
Taurus: Eben, please hand the helm to Zhage.
Eben gladly takes the helm off and hands it to Zhage.
Zhage takes it and gives it a quick look over.
Zhage: It's only a guess, but it could only work in specific locations important to Grallen. The gate could have been one of these places. But that's only a guess.
Taurus: I see. Perhaps we should take it to the tomb of Grallen first and try it there?
Zhage: Sounds like an idea.
Taurus nods, offering to take the helm.
Eben: I guess the kender will have to wear it then, huh?
Taurus: Arn't you glad you're staying here now?
Vexin Sixtoes: Nooooope!
Vexin Sixtoes ginrs
Taurus: I will wear it, if neccasary. But you all must ask sensible questions; I will retain no memory of the event.
Zhage hands the helm over to Taurus, nodding.
Vexin Sixtoes: I can think of all sorts of wonderful questions!
Taurus wraps the help up and stuffs it in his pack.
As Taurus stuffs the helm into his pack, a knock on the door is heard
Arman: Ah, I bet that will be Korto
Taurus looks up.
Taurus: Enter.
Korto Brechenhammer opens the door and enters the room.
Korto Brechenhammer is a stocky dwarf of a little over 4 ft in height. He has brownish hair and beard, greying at the temples, and balding on top of his head. His eyes are grey in colour and seem alive with life. He wears a well crafted suit of Banded mail armour and a steel heavy shield with a hammer and forge embalzzoned on the front.
Taurus inclines his head to the dwarf.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): Good...day...
Vexin Sixtoes: Hullo! I'm Vexin Sixtoes! Dragonslayer Extraordinaire!
Arman: Korto, I'm happy to see that you could make it. This Is Taurus, Zhage, Vexin, Tuerwester, Eben and Gilthanas
Korto Brechenhammer nods to the kender
Vexin Sixtoes offers his hand
Korto Brechenhammer nods to each of the party in turn
Zhage nods in the dwarf's direction.
Korto Brechenhammer tales the kender's hand in a firm hand shake
Vexin Sixtoes keeps his hand extended towards Korto
Taurus bows somewhat more deeply, giving the dwarf a glance over taking note of the symbols on his shield.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): It is my...honour...to assist you in this...quest
Taurus: Korto, it is an honor to meet you. I have heard only good things of you.
Zhage translates what Taurus said.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): Oh? What have you heard?
Taurus looks to Zhage, offering him a relieved smile. Looking back to Korto.
Taurus: I am lead to believe you are a man, er, dwarf.. of the gods.
Taurus: Any dwarf who's destiny is shaped by the hand of Reorx is a friend and allie of mine.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): I must improve my common...so please to speak in common...
Arman: I'm not sure what they have told you, but I requested that you accompany us to Duncan's tomb. I felt that it be important that you join us. Taurus here has shown something that no man, dwarf or elf has seen in over 300 years...
Zhage nods and ceases the translation.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): curious, "Oh?"
Korto Brechenhammer curious, "Oh?"
Taurus: I wish not to display the works of the Gods frivolously but perhaps on our journey I may be given the oppertunity to act in their name.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): I honour Reorx's memory, he was the first forger and for me he is very important.
Taurus: In the mean time I welcome you to our group. We have a great task ahead of us, perhaps we might converse on our journey.
Vexin Sixtoes begins examining himself in a small steel mirror with the word "Korto" etched in dwarven on the back
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): I have heard rumours that gods have returned, but I have seen no evidence. But if what you say is true, then I would be interested in learning more
Vexin Sixtoes asks Taurus to hold the mirror for him so he can adjust his topknot
Taurus: And I from you. Whilst I feel the Gods embrace I have much to learn of their scripture, dictate. We have much to l--
Taurus takes the mirror from Vexin, it almost forced on him, eyeing it curiously never having seen it before.
Taurus: Armas, if you are ready, I would like to set out now.
Vexin Sixtoes Adjusts his topknot and flips it around in satisfaction
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): What is this? Is this how you..."humans" honur your guests? By stealing from them?
Vexin Sixtoes: Much better.
Taurus looks at Korto confused.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hmm? whose stealing?
Taurus: Stealing? Whatever do you mean?
Vexin Sixtoes: I'll ge tthem!
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): That mirror belongs to me
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh
Arman frows, looking at Korto and then to the mirror.
Taurus looks at the mirror, frowns, glares at Vexin.
Taurus: Vexin....
Vexin Sixtoes: Does it? It must have fallen into my pouch
Taurus hands Korto the mirror, looking at him very apologetically.
Taurus: My most deepest apologises Korto, Vexin sometimes forgets himself.
Vexin Sixtoes: You should really take better care of things that are important to you, not throwing them into other's pouches
Korto Brechenhammer glares at the kender.
Vexin Sixtoes: And accusing me of stealing?
Arman (leans in to Korto): best to keep your pouches sinched up tight around that one.
Vexin Sixtoes gasps in shock
Arman scowls at the kender.
Vexin Sixtoes: I never steal!
Vexin Sixtoes: Stealing is WRONG!
Taurus: I'm sure no one is accusing anyone of anything.
Korto Brechenhammer (in halting common): Kindly keep your fingers out of my pouches! Perhaps they won't fall into yours then!
Taurus: Lets get to our task at hand, please.
Vexin Sixtoes: My fingers were not in your pouches! hmmph!
Vexin Sixtoes: Come Skitters, let's get going
Vexin Sixtoes calls his enormous weasel from a dark corner of the room, bigger than most humans
Arman (scolds Vexin in a fatherly way): I'd be wise to do as he says, little one. Here is Thorbardin, you can loose your hands for such an offense.
Vexin Sixtoes: offense? he put that in my pouch!
Taurus straps on his shoulderguards, the last part of his armor and locks hsi gaunglets into place. Securing his cloak and his pack he tests the weight, ready to move out.
Zhage gets up and leaves.
Vexin Sixtoes follows Zhage out the door, leading Skitters alongside him
Taurus steps in beside the dwarves.
Taurus: Please, forgive Vexin, we have been away from civilised lands for some times and he has forgotten the ettiquettes of society.
Taurus: Its his way of saying... hello...
Korto Brechenhammer grunts, "Well it does not make for good first impression...I am unaccustomed to...human...behaviour and even less so that of the kender race"
Korto Brechenhammer adjusts his belt and follows the others
Taurus: As are we with Dwarven custom, I feel this places us on equal footing.
Arman: it is true. No human or kender have been in our halls for over 300 years. We only know what we do from books... Anyhow, we should catch up with the others, before they get lost.
Korto Brechenhammer : Hmmm, indeed, I suppose it does
Arman smiles and heads out the door
Taurus: Aye, I agree.
Taurus quickens his pae.
Korto Brechenhammer (in Dwaven): Reorx give me strength
Arman takes the party to the transport shaft. There is no line up here, making the wait very quick for the next lift.
Taurus: No matter how many times I see it these contraptions are still a wonder.
Korto Brechenhammer : Yes, many wonders exist in these hals...
A short wait at the lift, and the clear platform rises to the top level of the giant Stalactite known as the Life Tree of Hylar. The platform is empty so you get on board. It shoots down at a quick pace, stopping at other levels to allow more dwarves to join the ride down
Taurus shuffles some to the side making more room. Smiling at a few dwarves on the lift, the novalty of all these short people around and him towering over them far from wearing off.
Soon, the platform is nearly full. It reaches the bottom level and the throng of dwarves shuffle out the tunnel into the streets of the lowest level.
Arman takes you back down the beautiful streets and out of the Life Tree. Here, you find the familiaity of the docks as Arman finds passage across the Urkhan Sea on another cable boat.
Taurus peers out across the water uneasily, shifting his weight some from one foot to the other. Attempting to take his mind off the deep darkness of the water he converses with Korto.
Arman: We'll head to the Eigth Road. This will be the most direct route to the Valley of the Thanes.
Taurus: When the Gods stepped back from your kin, you still carried their words and teachings?
Korto Brechenhammer makes a gesture at the mentioning of the Valley.
Taurus nods to Arman.
The cable boat makes its way across the Urkhan Sea, the Life Tree of Hylar towers over you from behind, even as you make your way farther away.
Korto Brechenhammer : The gods left the world, but their teachings still held wisdom. Why abandon that?
Korto Brechenhammer : I learnt the ways of Reorx to assist my smithing. I hnour his memory by keeping to the old traditions.
The ride takes about 30 to 45 minutes before it docks on the far side of the sea. Arman Steps off and waits for the rest of you to follow.
Arman: This road will take us straight to the Valley of Thanes.
Arman strides off down the road with purpose
Taurus steps onto the cableboat carefully, and off, quite quickly. Spending the entire ride at the exact -center- of the boat; obviously not a fan of cross water travel.
Vexin Sixtoes follows swiftly behind Arman
Taurus: It is a pleasure to hear that the dwarves held strong to their beliefs. I'm afraid those outside this great mountain where not so resilent.
Korto Brechenhammer steps off the boat following Taurus
Taurus: Many turned to false gods, prophets or superstitions.
Korto Brechenhammer : Has wisdom left the world of man as well as the gods?
Taurus: I once knew a man who prayed to a newt, he said it would carry him on its slimy back to the afterlife.
Taurus: In some places, yes. In others, people make do.
Taurus: They adapt.
Taurus strides down the road behind Arman, peering around the lowly lit caverns as they move through.
Korto Brechenhammer : Ah, I see. It makes little sense to me. IF a child is told not to place his hand in the fire by his father, is the advice any less valid when his father is no longer around to give it?
Arman: Men are blind to their own folly, Kroto. They brought these dark times upon the world, yet they do not take fault. I have not met a human until just yesterday, but it gives me hope to see that they have begun to atone for what had happened so long ago.
Korto Brechenhammer : Was it so easy for the human's to give up on the god's teaching, simply because they were no longer around?
Taurus: That is where the teachings of man and dwarf differ. To use the same analogy. If a child's great great grandfather told this great grandfather not to place his hand in the flame, would he remember it? And would the teachings be the same after being filtered through
Taurus: And would the teachings be the same after being filtered through generation upon generation?
Korto Brechenhammer : A truth is a truth...in both cases the fire still burns.
Taurus: Indeed. But oft, a flames effects are not instant and when realised the damage has already been done.
Taurus smiles at Arman for his kind words.
The group walk down the cavern road for an hour or so, when off in the distance lies a massive gate. It's doors are sealed tight and a few dwarves look bored as they stand guard.
Arman: There is the gate. We are nearly there, my friends!
Taurus looks upon the dwarves as they approach, nodding firmly.
Taurus: Excellant.
Zhage follows behind listening to the convsation, but once again, deep in thought.
The dwarves see Arman and Korto with the party and quickly move to the gate mechanisim. They crank the wheel there and the gates grind open. A cold biting air pours over your face and the dim light of an overcast sky trickles through.
Taurus unsuccesfully resists a shiver that runs its course over his body. Peering inwards through the great doors before stepping in toe once more.
Taurus: The lighting effects of crystal and moss really make this a world beneath the world.
Taurus: Sometimes I can even feel a breeze.
Arman Steps through the gate.
Korto Brechenhammer hesitates before moving through the doorway...
Arman (laughs): that's because you're stepping back out to your own world.
Zhage just keeps walking, seemingly unaware of the change in his surrondings.
Taurus peers up.
Taurus: I.. thought the gate was the only entrance?
Arman walks forward, a fair distance to from the gate and stops as he surveys the valley. The gate behind you grinds closed and thumps loudly as it locks behind you.
Korto Brechenhammer : Oh? Not at all
Korto Brechenhammer to no one in particular, "I have not been outside in years..."
Arman: There are two enterances accessaible by man. The North Gate and the South Gate. This is the Valley of Thanes. The mountain walls protect it from all intruders.
Vexin Sixtoes: We're locked out again!
Taurus: I see.
Vexin Sixtoes: Or in... or...
Taurus: At least those without wings.
Vexin Sixtoes: Did I tell you about the time I...
Vexin Sixtoes: Hey I can sprout wings!
Taurus: We know, Vexin.
Taurus smiles.
Korto Brechenhammer is startled by the kender, "Truly? I am indeed ignorant of your race. I did not know you possessed that ability."
Zhage coming back from his thoughts. "He's a special Kender. Very Special."
This dreary, barren valley lies between soaring peaks of the Kharolis mountains. Burial cairns dot the landscape, the desolate mounds breaking the monotony of the naked ground. Far away, in the heart of the valley, there is a small patch of green. An awe-inspiring tomb rises from it, forming a stony pinnacle.
Taurus: But then, arn't they all?
The sun seems a strange sight after many hours underground, but the valley still seems confined; heavy clouds hang low across the valley, creating a cavernlike feel which somehow seems even more claustrophobic than the underground environment the heroes have just left.
Vexin Sixtoes: My Goddess, Chislev, allows me the ability occasionally
Korto Brechenhammer : Indeed?
Taurus points the the impressive tomb off into the distance.
Taurus: Which tomb is that?
Arman (Omniously): Duncan's Tomb...
Taurus: Oo..
Vexin Sixtoes: Indeed... maybe I'll show you later
Taurus: And which tomb does the helm belong to?
As you gaze upon the wonderment of the tomb, a low-hanging cloud begins to drizzle freezing rain down into the valley. Soon, everything is in a thin layer of ice.
Zhage: Lovely weather.
Taurus pulls his cloak tighter around him at the bite of the cold.
Arman: It lies below Duncan's tomb.
Taurus: Then let us make haste before this weather dampens our spirits.
Arman points straight ahead as he brings the hood up upon his cloak.
Korto Brechenhammer wraps his cloak about him more tightly, "Aye, I knew there as a reason I haven't been "outside" in so long."
Taurus: I am curious however. What dangers can we expect in these tombs? Traps? Walking dead?
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh walking dead!
Vexin Sixtoes: That is one big chuck of earth attached to the bottom of that floating tomb
Taurus: Indeed. The dwarves go to great lengths to secure their posessions when they leave this life.
Korto Brechenhammer : Most of the tombs are safe. Some have restless dead within. If we don't disturb them we should be alright. (looks at the kender) If we don't stray too far from our quest we should be fine.
Arman nods at Korto's words.
Taurus eyes Vexin also.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hey! Stop looking at me!
Taurus: Just remember Vexin, no disturbing the dead. Alright?
Vexin Sixtoes (mutters): So I can go check out the restless dead...
Vexin Sixtoes: Uh... ok...
Taurus nods and smiles.
Taurus: They're be plenty of time for exploration and adventure when we're done.
Vexin Sixtoes croses his fingers behind his back
Arman: Let us continue on our course then.
Arman moves off toward the floating tomb the looms in the distance
Taurus: Aye.
Korto Brechenhammer : Agreed
Taurus steps in behind, pulling his hood up over his helm.
Vexin Sixtoes: Come Skitters!
Taurus: And that goes double for Skitters, too. No gnawing on those laid to rest.
You follow a worn path that heads toward the center of the valley. To either side, many crypts and tombs are obscured by the sheets of freezing rain that beat down upon the valley.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ew, Skitters is only interested in bloody meals
Your trek across the valley is a short one.
An oasis, oddly green in the autumn gloom, surrounds a lake at the valley's center. Stone tombs, covered with ice from the freezing rain, fill the oasis. As soon as the heroes enter the oasis, the rain ends and the sun comes out. As the clouds clear away, they see, looming above the lake, a giant floating mountain crowned with a castle.the tomb of Duncan.
A ruin is visible on the opposite shore of the lake, and one tomb stands empty before you on the near side.
Taurus: The weather here is rather.. sudden...
Taurus peers across the lake at the ruin then towards the tomb on the near side.
Taurus: Who's tombs are those?
Korto Brechenhammer : checks... [1d20+4 = 16]
Korto Brechenhammer : The near one there is Geallen's
Taurus: We should go to this one first, to return Grallen to his final resting place and ask of him where to find the Hammer.
Vexin Sixtoes: What do we do? Have a funeral for the helm?
Korto Brechenhammer : The ones on the far side are unknown to me. They've always been there, I know not what they are from.
Vexin Sixtoes: And now I lay helm down to rest....
Taurus: I believe Korto would know the propper thing to say.
You approach the Tomb of Grallen. A 15-foot obelisk stands on the lakeshore. Behind it is a statue of an armored dwarf, arms spread, bare head thrown back. The pedestal bears runes that read: " Raised to honor Prince Grallen, hero of the final assault on the fortress of Fistandantilus ."
Korto Brechenhammer : Please, we dwarves value our customs and rituals. Do not make a mockery of them!
Taurus eyes the statuee, adjusting his pack and removing the helm. He steps forward, uncovering it.
Taurus: Your brow shall never be chilled again, Lord Grallan.
Arman watches Taurus intently.
Korto Brechenhammer : By Reorx, it is the helm! I never thought I'd see it...
Taurus steps closer, raising to place the helm on the head of the statue.
Korto Brechenhammer : is clearly amazed
Korto Brechenhammer is clearly amazed
Arman smiles to Korto.
Arman: it is true, my friend.
Korto Brechenhammer Makes a signof blessing
As the helm is placed upon the head of the statue the statue turns it's head to face the party.
Taurus: We beg of your councel once more, your guidance. We seek the Hammer to unite the clans against their impending enemies. Let your last act benefit your people's future.
Taurus steps back, bowing deeply to the statue.
Statue: What you seek is above. Its only entrance is across the lake. Say "mourn for Kharas" and step through the unbroken arch.
Korto Brechenhammer (stunned): By Reorx!
The statue then crumbles as the final word is spoken
Taurus says a quiet prepare before turning to Arman.
Taurus: You were correct, the Hammer is in Duncan's tomb.
Taurus: Perhaps it was you who was destined to recover it.
Arman smiles proudly.
Arman: I knew it. It is my destiny. I am Kharas incarnate.
Taurus grins.
Taurus: Then let us make haste to fullfill that destiny.
Taurus begins to make his way around the lake.
Korto Brechenhammer : I suppose we should get walking
Arman follows Taurus
The ruin across the lake is overgrown with lilies, jasmine, and snapdragons. The ground is carpeted with petals. In the ruin's center stands an arch, broken in the center.
Taurus steps up to the broken arch, looking it over breifly before speaking. "Mourn for Kharas." He pauses, then, steps through. A leap of faith; somthing he has in droves.
Vexin Sixtoes makes his way to the arch, leaving no trace of his passing through the underbrush
The knight steps throught the arch and finds himself on the other side. Nothing seems to happen.
Taurus peeks an eye open, looks around, then turns to look bak at the group.
Taurus: It didn't work..
Arman scratches his chin.
Taurus: Dwarven?
Korto Brechenhammer shakes his head, "No, Perhaps there is something we missed? Maybe only dwarves may enter?"
Korto Brechenhammer approaches the arch and in dwarven says"Mourn for Kharas" and steps through
Vexin Sixtoes: Maybe only Kender may enter...
Taurus circles around to stand with his companions once more, watching as Korto steps through.
Kortos steps through the arch and finds himself on the other side. Nothing seems to have happened.
Arman snorts a laugh.
Taurus: That would be an interesting twist on things, Vexin. Perhaps you could take a look at it Zhage, it might be broken.
Korto Brechenhammer turns scraching his beard along his jaw, "Hmmm"
Arman: aye. I think if anything, it wouldn't work for a kender.
Arman winks to vexin.
Korto Brechenhammer steps back and examines the arch
Vexin Sixtoes sticks his tongue out
Vexin Sixtoes goes to the other side, and steps through, saying "Mourn for Kharas" in Dwarven
the kender finds that the results are similar to the others; nothing seems to happen.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hmm, must be broken
Taurus: The arch is broken... Perhaps it must be repaired?
Taurus: Grallan did say step through the -unbroken- arch.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh, the statue said UNbroken arch
Vexin Sixtoes looks around for an unbroken arch
Gilthanas nods to Taurus with a puzzled look on his face.
Zhage: Well... If it is broken, we should find the pieces to fix it.
Taurus: Everyone, fan out. Bring back to the arch any pieces that might be missing.
Taurus goes about searching through the underbrush and weed ridden ruins.
Korto Brechenhammer joins the others in their search for peices of the arch hoping they'll be easy to find.
Vexin begins digging throught the undergrowth and finds, entangled in the vines a chunck of stone.
Kortos finds another slab of stone leaning up against a rock. The slab is covered in vines and moss.
Vexin Sixtoes: Let he who is worthy find the first stone!
Taurus and Zhage both find two more pieces hidden within the plant life.
Taurus pulls away the vines and recovers the stone piece, moving it over to set it down infront of the arch.
Korto Brechenhammer BRings back the piece he found and searches again
Korto continues to search but does not find anything resembling a piece of an arch.
Zhage moves his pices close to the arch.
Arman Returns to the others empty handed.
Zhage: Anyone guess how many are left?
Taurus stands before the arch, tapping his chin thoughtfully. Looking over the stone pieces assembled he tries to find out which piece goes where and replace it.
Arman: how many pieces do we have?
Korto Brechenhammer : Four I believe
Zhage goes and takes another look around.
Korto Brechenhammer Looks some more.
Zhage walks back and looks around the weeds and vines once more. He nearly trips over a large slab. It looks heavy.
Zhage: Erm... I found another piece..
Taurus: Great! Bring it over.
Zhage: Uh... can I get a hand?
Arman walks over and helps Zhage with the big slab.
Taurus looks over as Arman joins Zhage, nodding he turns his attention back to the stone.
Zhage: Thanks Arman
Taurus: What do you make of it Korto? How does it go back together?
As Taurus asks Korto to examin the broken arch pieces, he shifts a couple slabs around an soon realizes that more pieces are needed. If they are all relatively the same size, then 4 pieces are missing.
Taurus: We need thre-- no four more pieces!
Taurus: Spread out.
Vexin Sixtoes: I found grass!
Zhage starts to look around again.
Taurus goes about searching as well.
Korto Brechenhammer searches again
Taurus finds another piece buried in the tall weeds.
Gilthanas (shouts): Hey over here!
Taurus: I found one too!
Gilthanas points into the lake near by.
Taurus begins to drraaaag the piece he found over to the arch then moves over to Gilthanas, peering into the lake.
Taurus: There is a piece in there...?
Gilthanas nods
Zhage: Want to go for a swim Taurus?
Taurus looks somewhat anxious.
Taurus: No.
Zhage laughs.
Vexin Sixtoes: How far down is it?
Gilthanas: it looks about 10 feet down. This lake is strange. it does not have gentle slopes...
Taurus: Vexin.
Taurus: Can you swm down and tie a rope around it so we can drag it out?
Vexin Sixtoes: Loop a rope arund my feet
Taurus: Who has rope?
Arman: That water is bound to be cold...
Gilthanas: if no one has rope, we can maybe use some of these vines...
Taurus: Good idea!
Taurus begins to pull at some of the vines and attempts to tie them together to form what he thinks is a rope.
Gilthanas draws his long sword and begins to chop away at the vines.
Taurus ties the vines around Vexin's feet securely.
Vexin Sixtoes , with the rope looped around his feet, leaps out over the water, nd with sickening cracking and crunching noises, his shape shifts into that of a meium-sized shark as it hits the water
Taurus blinks.
Gilthanas raises an eyebrow.
Taurus: Right....
Taurus cringes some.
Korto Brechenhammer is startled by the sight...
Taurus: How's he going to tie the rope around the stone?
Gilthanas: I wonder how he intends to tie the vine like that??
Zhage: Show off
Vexin Sixtoes takes an edge of th stone in his mouth and tugs on the rope
Taurus blinks a bit and tries to 'reel' the catch in.
The group tugs on the rope and the shark rises to the surface. The slab of stone falls from his jaws.
Vexin Sixtoes swims down again to grab the stone
Taurus pulls tighter on the rope as the shark tries to swim away then, seeing him drop the slab lets it loose as he tries again.
Taurus: Come on Vexin! Stop playing around!
Vexin Sixtoes swims down again trying a different angle and biting the stone
The sharks jaws clamp down on the slab and this time, he is pulled up to the surface with the stone in his jaws
Taurus: We've got a live one!
Taurus laughs out, pulling the shark, and slab, up onto the shore.
Vexin Sixtoes flops around gleefully like a fish out of water, then with another bone-crunching sound shifts back into Kender form
Vexin Sixtoes: I've always wanted to be a shark!
Taurus cringes as he changes again.
Taurus: Nice job Vexin.
Taurus: So thats three.. we need one more.
Korto Brechenhammer : Well done kender. I've never seen such a display, or creature. You say the power comes from the gods?
Vexin Sixtoes stands up and bows
Taurus goes hunting once more.
Vexin Sixtoes: Yes, Chislev loves me
Korto Brechenhammer searches for the final stone.
Vexin Sixtoes: Soon she says I'll be able to change into animals 8 times my size!
Taurus drags his feet through the grass and comes upon the final slab of stone.
Taurus: Ahar!
Taurus lugs the stone over and dum[s it on the ground panting lightly.
Taurus: Last one. Now.. to put it together.
Gilthanas: Lets piece them together...
Korto Brechenhammer does his best to assist with the rebuilding
Taurus nods and begins to arrange them on the ground.
With all the pieces now, it is a simple task of finding where they go. When the arch is pieced back together, the seams glow faintly and fade. The seams can no longer be seen and the arch is now one solid piece.
Taurus steps back, dusting off his hands and takes a slug from his waterskin.
Taurus: Well done... now, the final test.
Taurus: Arman, would you care to do the honors?
Korto Brechenhammer admires the craftmanship of the archway, "Truly astounding!"
Arman: aye, but we need to still get it back into place. I can't walk through it here on the ground...
Gilthanas looks at the arch lying on the ground and then to the two pillars that stand side by side.
Vexin Sixtoes: You tall people need o lift it up to the top
Taurus: Ok.
Taurus: Dwarves on the left, Gilthanas and Myself on the right.
Taurus: On three we lift. got it?
Gilthanas nods.
Taurus moves into position, grasping the side of the arch as he crouches down.
Korto Brechenhammer follows the instructions
Taurus: Right. One... two... three! Heave!
Taurus heaves, trying to lift up the stone.
Arman Grunts as he pushes the arch upward. Gilthanas does the same, surprisingly stong despite his slight stature.
The arch slides into place, the dwarves having a bit more difficulty due to their height. As the arch rests atop the pillars, the seams glow faintly and then fade, just like before. The arch is now complete.
Arman: mighy fine work, lads!
Taurus dusts of his hands, grinning.
Korto Brechenhammer claps off the stone dust from his hands, "Most impressive, not a seam remains!"
Taurus: Dwarves know how to work stone, indeed.
Arman positions himself in front of the arch. He eyes the arch and then steps forward.
Arman: I mourn for Kharas.
Taurus holds his breath.
as the dwarf steps through, his body glows brightly for a second and then the light vanishes, Arman is no where to be seen.
Taurus blinks.
Korto Brechenhammer : Does everyone speak Dwarvish?
Taurus shakes his head.
Taurus: I'm afraid I do not.
Korto Brechenhammer exlpains the phrase in dwarvish making sure those that don't speak the language pronouce the words correctly.
Taurus nods, repeating it several times until it passes as Dwarven; or as close to.
Korto Brechenhammer : "Ich trauern f�r Kharas"
Taurus steps up to the archway, looks around, then repeats the words nice and slow like.
Taurus (poor dwarven): I mourn for Kharas
Korto Brechenhammer Will go last afer the others are all through to make sure no one slips up and is left behind
The knight says the phrase in dwarven and as he steps through, his body glows brightly. You feel the sensation of pins and needles all over your body. It is not painful, but not very comfortable either. Taurus vanishes from sight.
Vexin Sixtoes walks through the archway with Skitters, speaking in perfect Dwarven "I mourn for Kharas"
Korto Brechenhammer when everyone is through he walks through the arch reciting the dwarven words, "I mourn for Kharas"
Gilthanas steps through the arch after Vexin. Both glow brightly like those before them and they vanish from sight. Zhage follows suit.
Taurus makes a very quiet prayer to the Gods should he not make it to the other side that his soul be carried to Kiri-Jolith.
You all appear in a circular room, one by one. A door is closed shut on the far side. The walls are made of stone, as is the floor.
A duplicate of the teleport arch from below is here. As the last hero exits from the teleport, there is a flash of light and the arch vanishes behind them. There is a trapdoor in the roof, but no ladder from the floor below.
Taurus peers slowly around the room, getting his barings. Stepping forward he moves to the door, inspecting it to see if it is locked.
Arman: Aye, it's locked. I tried it already, lad.
Taurus: Aye...
Taurus peers up at the trap door in the roof, judging how high up it is.
Taurus: Gilthanas... jump on my shoudlers? See if you can get that open...
Vexin Sixtoes goes to work on the locked door
Gilthanas nods and climbs up onto the knights shoulders. He reaches for the trap door and pushes it open.
Gilthanas: it's not locked
Taurus: See if you can get through...
Korto Brechenhammer : Did anyone keep some of that vine?
Taurus: Help the others up one by one.
Vexin works at the door but the lock does not seem to budge.
Taurus: No... we'll have to do this the old fashioned way.
Korto Brechenhammer searches the room for unusual stonework that would indicate a concealed or secret door.
Taurus: Zhage, your up next, then vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes stands in front of the locked door and says "I mourn for Kharas" in Dwarven
Gilthanas jumps lightly up and graps the edge of the door. He pulls himself up through the hatch and then turns to help others up
the door does not react to Vexin
Taurus: Zhage and Gilthanas can help Korto and Arman up. Then you all can help me up and skitters up.
Vexin Sixtoes srticks his tongue out at the door and goes up the trap door
Korto finds no hidden stone work
Zhage waits for Vexin to climb up.
Korto Brechenhammer agrres and clambers up to the trap door with the help from the others
The group all manages to make their way to the top of the hatch. You all find yourself on top of a tower. Here, you see that you are near the bottom of the floating tomb. You can see the valley below you. To the left is a gallery that looks out over the valley as well.
Korto Brechenhammer looks out over the valey, taking in the view, mouthing a small prayer ro Reorx as he does so
Taurus steps onto the gallery and peers down at the valley below in awe. Shaking his head slowly, still not use to such wonders. Shaking himself from his thoughts he peers arouhd and makes his way across the landing searching for an entrance inside.
Zhage: Well... I must say this is a nice view..
Taurus: Alright, same way we got up. We'll lower you down one by one.
Taurus: Gilthanas, your up first.
Taurus moves to the side, offering the elf his hand.
Gilthanas accepts the hand and lowers down to the gallery.
the rest of the group follows suit and soon, everyone is down below again
Taurus leans over the edge to lower Gilthanas down as far as he can, nodding to him to let go to drop the last half dozen feet.
Taurus: Who needs a rope!
Zhage: So, no that we are out... were do we go?
Taurus laughs, dusting himself off and begins to move across the open space towards the door.
Korto Brechenhammer : I need a rope
Taurus: Perhaps this door isn't going to be locked?
Zhage: Let's give it a shot.
Zhage walks over to the door and give it a try.
You head over to the double doors and find that both are locked.
Zhage: Hey.. it's unlocked.
Taurus peers around cautiously as he approaches, trying to open the doors.
Skitters: that was weird, i went to get dinner out of the oven, my screensaver comes up and kills FG2
Taurus: Do you think your ancestors would mind terribly if we forced the door?
Zhage: Hold on a second Taurus.. Let Vexin try to open it.
Taurus nods.
Arman: If we can try not to damage anything, then lets take that approach...
Taurus: Ofcourse.
Korto Brechenhammer Moves about further down the area admiring the construction of the place.
Vexin sets upon the door and has difficulty with this lock as well.
Zhage: Problems Vexin?
Vexin Sixtoes: No. There's uh... no lock to be picked
Taurus: Perhaps there's another way in.
Zhage walks over while chanting and taps the door with his staff. (Knock)
Vexin Sixtoes: Uncle Trapspringer himself could not open that door!
Korto Brechenhammer wonders if those are truly stairs he sees going up...:)
The staff taps the doors and they swing open
Vexin Sixtoes: Pfft! Stupid door magic
Korto Brechenhammer turns about as he hears the doors open behind him, and retuns to the others
Taurus grins at Zhage, giving him a hearty pack on the back.
Taurus: Good work Zhage!
Vexin Sixtoes: Nobody knows how to craft a respectable non magic lock anymore
Korto Brechenhammer : What's in the pack Zhage? :)
Zhage: Let's hope there are no more doors like this. I don't have any more spells..
Taurus kneels down, taking a moment to light a torch.
The spoils of victory�many of the weapons, armor, and shields of Duncan�s defeated enemies�are stored here.
Taurus strides inwards, shedding torchlight across the spoils.
Taurus: I can see why all the trouble.
Korto Brechenhammer is intrigued by the arms and armour,much more so than by the architecture of the place, and moves inward to examine some pieces.
Vexin, Taurus and Kortos all notice that as they enter, a few of the weapons move slightly.
Taurus: Woah... hold up.
Taurus: There is some magic in play here.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oops...
Gilthanas: what is it?
Taurus shifts the torch to his shield arm, resting his hand on the pommel of his sword. He edges closer to where he thought he saw movement.
Taurus: There might be somthing hidden amongst these spoils...
Zhage stops immediately and carefully looks about after the dreaded oops from Vexin.
Korto Brechenhammer : Is there some trick of the light here? I swear I saw the items move!
Taurus approaches a rack of swords slowly. As he steps closer, a long sword spins out from the rack and bounces hard off his shield. The sword clatters to the stone floor.
Taurus jumps back.
Taurus: What the!
Gilthanas draws his sword and looks around cautiously
Taurus: Keep away from the weapons...
Vexin Sixtoes: Maybe we should go the other way
Zhage: It's just a flying sword...
Korto Brechenhammer raises his shield, "By REorx! The wepons are possessed!"
Taurus draws his longsword, tightening his defence as he moves for the opposing doors.
Taurus: Stick close, keep back from the weapons.
Korto Brechenhammer switches to a defense stance (total Defense) and follows
As Korto shouts Reorx's name, a suit of armor steps of it's stand and falls to the floor. The sound of metal crashing into the floor echos loudly across the chamber.
Taurus jerks around.
Taurus (Quietly): And... keep our voices low...
Zhage: It's just falling armor..
Korto Brechenhammer : What was that?
Arman: What in blazes...
As you inch toward the door, a helmet from another suit of armor soars through the air and smashes into Korto's shield.
You all arrive to the double doors. You see behind you various weapons floating back and forth in random patterns.
Zhage: Maybe we shouldn't be in here..
Korto Brechenhammer : This is not good...What are the weapons doing? Protecting something?
Taurus (Quietly): If we don't aggrivate them... perhaps.. they'll leave us.. alone...
Taurus tries the double doors, keeping his eyes on the floating weapons however.
Taurus reaches for the door handle and turns. The handle does not budge. Moments later, a dagger soars through the party and lodges itself in the wooden door, inches from the knight's head.
Taurus: ...
Taurus (Quietly): I.. dont think.. they want us.. in there...
Zhage looks lat the dagger and prys it out of the door.
Korto Brechenhammer : I don't think they want us going through there lad.
Vexin Sixtoes: We should go up the stairs then
Taurus (Quietly): Vexin... try the lock... we'll watch your back.
Taurus steps forward, forming a defencive wall to block the door from the weapons 'sight'.
Vexin Sixtoes: Ok, but if it doesn't work we go up the stairs
Korto Brechenhammer Korto locks shields with Taurus for added defense
Taurus (Quietly): Like it or not, we're here as hostiles to raid this tomb for the hammer. Thats how they're going to look at us, and they're going to protect themselves.
Vexin works at the door and like the others, he cannot make progress.
Gilthanas: lets hope the hammer isn't so... aggresive.
Vexin Sixtoes: Up the stairs we go!
Taurus: I'm surprised to see you so scared Vexin... usually you'd be draggin us through that door.
Taurus smiles a little.
Vexin Sixtoes: I'm not scared!
Taurus: But I digress, we'll come back after we check the other route.
Vexin Sixtoes: These doors aren't built right, they don't open to my touch
Taurus begins to edge towards the entrance.
Zhage holds onto the dagger he removed from the door, to keep it from escaping.
You make your way back to the other doors. The weapons just float past you in their seamingly meaningless pattern. You exit back on to the gallery.
Taurus circles around and heads for the stairs.
Zhage places the dagger back in the room and walks away.
The stairs reach up into the next level. A strange purple fog floats down the steps.
Taurus: Alright.
Taurus: So. Purple misty steps or floating animated weapons?
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh purple fog
Vexin Sixtoes bounds up the steps
Taurus: After you Vexin, your the more agile of us.
Korto Brechenhammer : What is that? It's like a purple haze...all in my brain...?
Zhage: Misty steps it appears..
Taurus trudges up slowly after Vexin.
Taurus: An odd prayer Korto, but, I like it.
Korto Brechenhammer : Aye, Lately things just don't seem the same...
you make your way up the steps. Nothing seems to be out of the ordinary until you get closer to the top.
Vexin steps up to the next step when the floor beneath his feet seem to become slick. Everyone behind him seems to have the same thing happen to them.
Taurus frowns
Taurus: Uhh..
The slickness seems to just appear, but everyone manages to keep thier footing.
Taurus: Take it nice and slow...
You all reach the top of the stairs.
Zhage: I don't think I like this place much..
As you reach the top of the stairs, a frantic, disembodied voice screams at you in Dwarven:
�Defilers, begone! Tempt not the sleep of the ageless.�
Taurus almost falls over, grabbing the wall to stabalise himself.
Vexin Sixtoes: We are not defilers...
Taurus: Well, to be perfectly truthful.. the instant we set foot in here we became defilers.
Taurus: So lets find the hammer and get out.
Taurus heads northwest, following the wall.
Zhage: I agree with that Taurus.
Vexin Sixtoes: Oh boy another door
Taurus: Give it a try Vexin, you might have better luck with this one!
Taurus grins at him reassuringly.
Vexin Sixtoes tries the door
Vexin tries the door, and predictibly, it is locked.
Gilthanas: I have a knock spell memorized as well. It is the only one I have, so we should use it wisely if need be.
Taurus: Aye, lets search out the areas we have access to first.
Taurus: Then we can try the locked doors.
Taurus continues down the hall.
Taurus Quietly Now.. if I was a hammer, where would I be....
Taurus (Quietly): Now.. if I was a hammer, where would I be....
You round the cornor and find that it is a crumbly floor of a view point.
Zhage (quietly): In a toolbox?
Vexin Sixtoes goes to work on the door
Taurus chuckles quietly, double backs.
Vexin Sixtoes: Nope, just like the others
As you walk down this gallery, the fog thickens to the point that you can't see your nose in front of you.
Taurus waves the torch about, keeping one hand on the wall.
Taurus: Stick close to the wall.. I dont want to scrape anyone off the floor.
Zhage: I really dislike this..
Vexin Sixtoes: This is really great!
You feel you way along the wall and it suddenly breaks away into another room. The fog is not as thick in here, but still keeps vision limited.
Taurus: There's a room here!... follow the wall.
Taurus squints, edging his way through the fog trying to make out shapes.
You seem to make out numerous alcoves on the far wall
Taurus: Alcoves... what could be in here...
Taurus feels about one of the alcoves.
You stumble around in the alcove and it appears to be empty.
Taurus: Empty!
Taurus continues along the wall checking each alcove.
You edge your way along and search in each alcove. They all appear to be empty.
Taurus follows the wall around until he's back out on the opening.
You make your way back into the hall way. You faintly make out stairs to the left
Taurus: I can make out stairs!
Taurus: Cursed fog.. I can barely see anything...
Taurus edges along to the stairs, trying to make his way up.
As you approach the stairs, you see that there is a landing of some sort straight ahead, past the stairs.
Vexin Sixtoes peeks around the corner
Taurus: Vexin, check the stairs.. we'll check the landing.
Taurus moves out onto the landing carefully.
Vexin Sixtoes moves up the stairs to check things out
Vexin creeps up the stairs. They only go on for a few steps before leveling off. Strangely, you walk for 10 feet or so and find nothing but a dead end
The others step out onto the landing and immediately they are out of the fog.
From this overlook, the ruins lie to the east. In the distance to the west is another exit from the valley. South are the nests of giant vultures in the caves. To the north, a horrifying sight greets you. The snowshrouded peaks of the Kharolis Mountains are covered by a huge army of draconians crawling down into the valley; the enemy is here.
Arman: What... What is that?!
Arman points to the army.
Taurus: ...
Taurus jaw just drops.
Zhage: Oh my..
Taurus: Draks.
Korto: Draks??
Taurus: Half dragon, half man. They are the foot troops of the dragon armies.
Taurus: We need to find the hammer, we need to find it now!
Arman: How have they traversed the mountains?!
Vexin Sixtoes peers at the wall, then back at the stairs
Vexin Sixtoes: Stairs don't lead to blank walls
Taurus: It appears that dragons are quite good climbers.
Gilthanas: Shall we follow Vexin, then.
Taurus: Aye...
Vexin Sixtoes tosses a coin at the wall
Taurus slowly shakes his head, commenting to himself. "I didn't think they'd move on Thorbadin so quickly...
Vexin Sixtoes: Stairs are stairs for a reason... to get somewhere... not to get to a blank wall
THe coin falls to the floor and rolls to the corner
Taurus makes his way to the stairs and heads up them.
Taurus: Vexin, whats up here?
Vexin Sixtoes searches for a way to open the door
Taurus: The Dragon armies are moving on Thorbadin.. we must make haste.
Vexin attempts to open the door, and then he realizes that there is no door here.
Vexin Sixtoes: It worked! I'm not broken!
Vexin Sixtoes quickly recovers
Vexin Sixtoes: I mean, of course it worked, I'm the master
Taurus looks at the blank wall, then looks to Vexin, confused.
Vexin Sixtoes walks through the wall
Vexin runs face first into the wall
Gilthanas: I think he's inhaled too much of the fog.
Taurus: Aye...
Taurus grabs Vexin by the back of his shirt and drags him up to his feet.
Taurus: Lets go Vexin, we can't waste anymore time.
Vexin Sixtoes: Stairs don;t lead to walls!
Vexin Sixtoes: Stairs are there for a reason
Taurus squints an eye.
Taurus: Korto, would you use your hammer to perhaps.. make.. a door?
Korto: here at the wall?
Taurus: Yes. Vexin seems convinced there is somthing behind it.
Korto: I will not destroy this tomb just because this kender thinks he sees something that isn't there.
Vexin sees nothing but a wall.
Taurus: Alright.
Vexin Sixtoes: Do YOU build stairs to get to blank walls?
Taurus: Vexin! Lets go!
Taurus tries to drag Vexin away from the wall, down the stairs and back around to the doors.
Taurus: Alright. We either open these doors, or the ones protected by the floating weapons.
Taurus: Which is it? I'm inclined to open the one that is protected.
Arman: Maybe they knew that kenders would come here and would want to know where it would lead. It would keep them busy for a LONG time, no?
Arman chuckles
Vexin Sixtoes sticks his tongue out at Arman
Vexin Sixtoes ok gilthanas, open the door
Zhage: I don't want to go back down those stairs.. So open this one.
Taurus nods.
Gilthanas: Before I use the spell, are we sure we don't want to try bashing it in first?
Arman frowns
Taurus looks to the dwarves.
Arman: I would prefer not to do such things, but if we must. The hammer is more important at this point.
Taurus: If we spend all day dancing on eggshells we'll have nowhere to take the hammer to.
Taurus gestures in the direction of the draks.
Taurus takes out his morningstar.
Taurus: Step back.
Taurus takes a big swing.
Before Taurus connects, Vexin hears a click from the lock
Vexin Sixtoes: Ha!
Taurus pauses, looks at Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes: I'm not broken!
Taurus: Why didn't you do that the first time?
Vexin Sixtoes: uh, of course I unlocked it... I am the master...
Vexin Sixtoes: I wanted to explore more before going through here
Taurus drops the 'star back into the loop on his belt. He reaches to the door and opens it.
THe door swings open.
A moss-covered fountain is in the center of this room; water trickles from the top of the spire. Lying against the fountain is a white-bearded dwarf, snoring lazily.
Taurus frowns, whispers;
Taurus (Queitly): There meant to be a curator...?
Vexin Sixtoes: Wakey wakey! Ham n Bacin!
Arman jaw drops open
Vexin Sixtoes: Well... not really Ham and bacon...
Arman: that looks like... Kharas!
Taurus peers at the old man closely.
Vexin Sixtoes: No, he really doesn't look like you
Taurus: Well, he's an old dwarf... yes...
dwarf wakes suddnely at the noise the kender makes.
Taurus: Hail sir dwarf!
dwarf: wha-- who is that there...
Taurus: Our apologies for disturbing your rest.
Vexin Sixtoes: Hullo! Vexin Sixtoes, Dragonslayer Extraordinaire!
dwarf: hmm...
Taurus: I have brought before you Arman Kheras to retrieve the Hammer of Keras.
Taurus nudges Arman forward.
Kharas: Who? I am Kharas...
Taurus looks at the dwarf very confused, then peers around the chamber. Whispering to Zhage quietly, "I think he's a little confused, poor old guy."
Arman: Sir, I am Arman, Arman Kharas... I am Kharas reinca... I am named after you. The high king has not been filled for hundreds of years. We beg you to let us bring the hammer back so that we can reunite the dwarven clans.
Zhage (quietly): Well... age seems to do that..
Kharas pats his belt and looks around as he pats his way up to his shoulders.
Kharas: I don't have my hammer...
Taurus nods slowly, listening to the dwarves speak.
Kharas: What have you done with my hammer!?
Arman: We have only just arrived. We found you in deep slumber only moments before you awoke.
Taurus: Please, you must help us. Your people are in grave danger.
Kharas: hmmm... The last thing I remember is stoping here to have a drink from this fountain after I laid Duncan to rest...
Vexin Sixtoes: hmm... I don't suggest drinking that water again
Vexin Sixtoes: It puts you to sleep for what? 300 years?
Taurus approaches the fountain, inspecting it closely.
Vexin Sixtoes: Now THAT is a sleep spell!
Kharas feels his beard, as if it had just grown a second ago.
Taurus: Hmm.. so it does..
Kharas: what... what is this?
Vexin Sixtoes: this? this is a fountain, this is water...
Korto (quietly to the others): Kharas was said to have shaved his beard near the end of the War...
Kharas: Not that! This!
Taurus nods slowly.
Kharas holds his long white beard up
Vexin Sixtoes: I ust told you
Taurus: Its... your beard.
Vexin Sixtoes: If what you say is true, you slept for about 300 years
Taurus: Much time has passed, I believe, between drinking from the well and now.
Vexin Sixtoes: in 300 years, hair is gonna grow
Vexin Sixtoes asks Zhage for a bottle to put some of the water in
Kharas: If you seek my hammer, then I will accompany you...
Taurus: Do you know your way around this place?
Kharas: I... no. my memory... It all seems to be shrouded in fog...
Zhage goes through his pack and carefully removes one of his empty vials.
Taurus: I'm sure it will all come back. But I'm afraid we have to keep a quick pace...
Zhage: Here you are Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes: Thanks Zhage!
Taurus: There is much at stake here.
Vexin Sixtoes bottles up some of the fountain water for later
Taurus walks down the hall to the next set of doors.
Taurus: Vexin! Come take a look at these doors.
Vexin Sixtoes: hmm... k
The lock does not budge
Taurus: Hows it going?
Vexin Sixtoes: this door is broken too
Taurus looks over his shoulder.
Taurus: Keep working on it, I'll check down here.
here is a large wooden platform that looks out over the valley. You can see that the wood here is rotten
The lock clicks open for the kender.
Taurus steps slowly through the room, peering around curiously as he approaches the platform; inspecting it closely as he approaches.
Vexin Sixtoes (in a sing-song voice): Oh Taaaauuuurus! Door's open
Taurus sees that the platform is being supported by wooden beams that are worked into the stone of the tomb. The wood platform has many holes in it.
Taurus slowly backs away, turns and heads out to see Vexin at the doors. With a pat on the shoulder for the Kender he throws the doors open.
Taurus: There is a wooden platform in there, doesn't seem overly stable.
This corridor is lined with shallow niches holding granite statues of noble dwarves.
Taurus: I hope these arnt the animating kind of statues...
Taurus slowly begins to walk down the corridor, shield high and ready.
Zhage: I hope not..
You see down the passage at the end of the hall that it turns sharpely to the right. To the left is stairs that acsend upwards
Taurus: Vexin, get to work.
Taurus grins, nods to the doors. He then heads to the left and checks to the right.
Taurus edges down the corridor cautiosly, peeking to the left.
down the hall you see a strange sight.
This square shaft is filled with webs. A cascade of ice chips falls from the shaft, evaporating as they strike the floor.
Taurus frowns, moving out towards the web and trying to edge around the room.
The lock remains closed.
Vexin Sixtoes: This door is broken!
You edge around the room and see that around the cornor is another tower with a spiral stair case leading upwards.
Taurus calls out.
Taurus: We got two staircases up! Spiral and straight!!
Vexin Sixtoes runs to the group, not about to miss out on any fun
Gilthanas: should we try the straight stairs first?
Taurus waits for the group to catch up before continueing further, this time to go up the straight staircase.
Taurus: Aye.
Taurus: The Spiral is most likely a side tower.
You get to the top of the stairs and the landing turns tto the right
Taurus circles around and moves across the landing.
Vexin Sixtoes peeks around the corner
The corridor leads to a door.
Taurus: Do your thing Vexin.
Vexin Sixtoes: Stupid doors
THe door remains locked
Taurus: Come on Vexin! You can do it, I know you can.
The door clicks as the lock opens
Vexin Sixtoes: Black is my color!
Taurus grins and opens the door.
This room at the towers base holds crystals and colored glass bits. From above comes the sound of heavenly chimes. The tower itself is flooded with rainbows of light dancing on the walls and crystal chimes rining in the wind.
Taurus peers up and around in awe at the sight.
on the far side of the room is an archway leading to a landing.
Taurus: You dwarves really take pride in your craft...
Taurus moves across the room to the landing.
Zhage: This is a beautiful room.
on the landing, you are even higher up in the tomb. The peaks of the highest towers are not far from here.
Taurus heads over to the stairs.
Vexin Sixtoes: Up up up
Taurus moves up the stairs and looks left and right.
Taurus: Aye.. up we go. Those doors, see if you can get them open.
Taurus: I'll check this landing to the left.
You go to the top of the battlements of this section of the tomb. To the left, you see a staircase that is carved directly from the rock that the tomb is built around. To the right, the battlemets go off down another tunnel
Vexin Sixtoes ventures down the hall to the west
You see stairs carved out of the stone that lead up higher within the tomb
Taurus looks around then double backs to the east.
You see the doors and a tunnel that leads off down another passage
Taurus: Vexin, try the doors.
Taurus goes off to scout down the passage.
The lock does not open.
Taurus strides down the hall, waving his torch around.
This room has windows on three sides looking out over the valley and mountains below. At the center of the room is a great altar carved with images of dwarves in battle. Three items lie upon the altar. Hanging on a stand behind the altar is a finely woven tapestry with dwarven script upon it. The text reads, �Take you in need.�
Vexin Sixtoes mimicks Taurus' words to himself
Vexin Sixtoes: Come on Vexin! I know you can do it!
Taurus slowly walks out to the alter and peers at the items atop it, taking up the text he squints at it and calls back for Zhage.
Taurus: Zhage! I found somthing!
Vexin Sixtoes: Pfft!
Zhage wanders off down to find Taurus.
Zhage comes around the cornor
Zhage: what is it?
Taurus: I found some script.
Taurus points to the tapestry.
Arman: This door looks like it is locked up tight, lad.
Taurus: Its in dwarven, I would think.
Zhage Looks at the text.
Taurus sees what the items on the alter are.
Zhage: it says "Take you in need."
Vexin Sixtoes meander over to Tarus
There is a potion, a scroll, and some incense.
Taurus: I see... what is the scroll? Is it magical?
The rest follow the kender.
Taurus takes the potion and incense.
Taurus: We may need these.
As zhage rolls the scoll open Kharas points to it.
Kharas: that. that is a scroll of remove curse and prayer...
Zhage looks at Kharas.
Zhage: I think he is right...
Zhage passes the scroll to Taurus.
Taurus: We'll keep it handy.
Taurus takes the scroll, neatly placing it in his belt.
Kharas: There were other items here, no?
Taurus: A potion and some incense...
Kharas: Ah, yes... the potion can cure serious wounds if drank. The incense is incense of meditation...
Gilthanas: how do you know this?
Kharas shrugs
Taurus: /e eyes Kharas.
Taurus eyes Kharas
you do not sense any decit
Taurus: Lets move on.
Taurus looks to the door, then to vexin, grinning.
Vexin Sixtoes: bah!
THe locks do not budge.
Taurus: Try that one down there.
Taurus nods to the smaller door.
This lock does not open either
Vexin Sixtoes: both broken
Korto: I do not think it is the doors that are broken...
Vexin Sixtoes: Pfft!
Taurus smiles some at Korto
Taurus: Lets unbreak them.
Taurus takes out his morningstar and winds back.
A few splinters break from the door.
Vexin Sixtoes: Stop that!
Taurus puts his back into it.
Zhage: We still have the stairs to try... unless you think we should go this way...
Taurus: Stairs?
More splinters fly from the door.
Taurus: On the battlements?
Vexin Sixtoes tries the 2nd door again
Zhage: the ones that are carved out of the stone itself...
Zhage: yes. On the battlements...
Vexin Sixtoes: I guess so
Taurus inspects his 'handywork' then nods.
Vexin Sixtoes: These doors are broken
Taurus: Yes, lets give them a go.
Taurus trudges up the stairs, peering down the side as he goes. Liking the heights no more than the deep depths of water surrounding the life tree.
You see a flagstone courtyard ahead of you. Off behind, is another tall tower. Across the courtyard is one more tower.
Taurus: Be careful... looks like a steep drop.
Taurus walks out into the courtyard, taking in a deep breath of the cold air. Heading towards the first tower to check inside.
Taurus: Check across there.
Taurus calls out, pointing to the other tower.
Vexin Sixtoes: Wow, look at the view!
Vexin Sixtoes: Reminds me of flying!
From this flagstone courtyard, you see the valley and the draconian army making it's way down the slopes of the mountain. You also see a large cap of a ruby tower near the center of the entire tomb. The top of the tower bears a sharp spike. In the center of the courtyard beside a hole lies a 16 foot flagpole with a lance tip. there is an inscription in dwarven on the external wall.
Vexin Sixtoes reads the wall
Taurus peers alllll the way up the flagpole to the lance tip, tilting his head some.
Taurus: Odd shaped flag pole...
Taurus looks into the first tower. You see a ramp that circles a fountain, providing two tiers of stone cells. A suit of full plate rests on a wooden stand in the corner.
The inscription reads: "Lances did great Huma seek To forge upon the dragon's peak With silver arm and silver pool And Hammer would he forge wyrm's doom. "
Taurus approaches the full plate, running his hands over it gently. Admiring its work. Catching himself he steps back, releases a sigh and leaves the tower.
Vexin Sixtoes: What's the armor, Kharas?
Kharas: That... that is my armor!
Taurus: And fine armor it is!
Kharas looks it over but does not take it from the stand.
Taurus tries to determine if there is a visable path or entrance to the ruby tower near the center of the tomb.
Zhage does not know what the significance of the flagpole-lance is.
Taurus sees a door leading into the ruby tower beyond the pit.
Taurus: Vexin, over here...
Taurus points, heading across.
Vexin Sixtoes follows
Taurus: It has to be in there. I know it.
Vexin Sixtoes: What's with the flagpole Kharas?
Kharas: It is a replica of the great Dragonlances, Weapons of a time long forgotten...
Vexin Sixtoes: cool!
Taurus: Dragonlances?
Taurus: You mean... Dragons use weapons?
Arman: You didn't get to read the Canticle of the Dragon when you were a boy, did you?
Arman chuckles
Taurus shakes his head.
Taurus: I do remember the tail, but... only vaguely.
Arman: "Yet out of the darkness of dragons, out of our cries of light, in the blank face of the black moon soaring, a banked light flared in Solamnia, a knight of truth and power, who called down the gods themselves, and forged the mighty dragonlance, piercing the soul od dragonkind, driving the shade of their wings from the brightening shores of Krynn...
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooh
Vexin Sixtoes: I slayed dragons, but not with a lance
Taurus smiles some, eyes rising to the flagpole as Arman speaks.
Taurus: Perhaps... its time to ready our lances once more.
Vexin Sixtoes: So, into the ruby tower then?
Arman: aye. but first... The Hammer of Kharas.
Taurus: Aye.
Taurus: The door, if you don't mind Vexin.
Taurus readies his morningstar.
Gilthanas: I do have my spell left...
Taurus looks thoughtful.
Vexin Sixtoes: Well, we're at the top
Taurus: Aye. Try it.
Gilthanas: But I should use it, only if this is where the hammer is...
Taurus: There is no way to know that at any door.
Taurus: Use it now, the rest we'll just have to deal with.
Gilthanas nods and rolls up his sleeves.
Gilthanas chants softly and the doors swing open.
the ruby is too thick to see anything.
Taurus steps inwards.
This room is filled with an obscuring smoke which slowly dissipates once the door is opened. A broken phial lies on the floor. A second set of doors is across this short hall. Near the doors is a skeleton of a dwarf.
Taurus: Be careful... there might be a trap at work...
Taurus approaches cautiously, inspecting the skeleton.
You see on one of the skeletal fingers is a signet ring.
Taurus kneels down, turning the ring slowly to see the symbol.
Taurus: Does anyone recognise this?
Arman approaches and looks at it. His mouth turns into a frown and his brow furrows.
Vexin Sixtoes: Kharas?
Taurus: What is it Arman?
Arman (quietly): that is the signet ring of Kharas...
Taurus nods slightly, glancing back towards Kharas.
Taurus: I see...
Arman moves the body slightly.
Arman: look..
Vexin Sixtoes: Seems Kharas is alive and dead at once...
Taurus looks down.
Arman points to the remains of a small scorpion that is beneath the skeleton's heel.
Taurus: This is strange...
Vexin Sixtoes: Kharas? is that you?
Kharas: Is that me?
Kharas points to the skeleton with confusion.
Kharas: Don't be daft kender! I am right here.
Vexin Sixtoes: But they say that's your ring
Taurus (Quietly): Arman, who are Kharas' children?
Arman (Quietly): Kharas had no children.
Kharas Looks down at his hands and feels where there should be a ring.
Kharas looks at the party with a sullen look
Vexin Sixtoes: Who are you, really?
Kharas: I admit... I am not Kharas. I am only the guardian of this tomb. I have been testing you. The weapons, the slippery stairs. The locked doors and purple fog. I am responsible...
Taurus: And how have we faired, in your test?
Kharas nods and raises his eyebrows.
Kharas: you've done quite well...
Taurus: Then let us play no further games. We require the hammer.
Taurus: Not for our own gain but for all dwarfkin.
Taurus: Human.
Taurus: And even Kender.
Vexin Sixtoes: That's me!
Kharas: It lies beyond those doors.
Kharas points to the doors across from you
Vexin Sixtoes groans at the mention of more doors
Taurus: Will you allow us to take it?
Kharas: I will not stop you. If the hammer allows you to take it, then it is so.
Taurus: Would you be so kind as to open the doors, at least, so we might meet your final test?
Taurus: My Kender friend grows tired of playing with locks.
Kharas raises his hand to the doors and they fly open.
Taurus: You are most kind. I would suggest you prepare your defenses. For the Dragonarmies decend and they shall leave no doubt sacred.
Taurus turns and makes for the now open doors.
This room is hot, lit with a sanguine light streaming through crimson windows. Only a narrow balcony extends over the shaft which opens to the distant lake below.
Hanging from a slender thread, a mighty bronze hammer swings back and forth. Every hour, it strikes one of the gongs which jut out from the walls.
Taurus walks out onto the balcony, peering down over the edge into the lake below. Peering up as sanguine light hits his face; letting his hoot fall back in the warmth.
Taurus: Arman. The hammer belongs to your kin. Call it.
Arman: I can not reach it. Plus, it is important that you deliver the hammer to my father. That was the arrangement.
Taurus nods slowly.
Taurus: Aye, that it was.
Taurus: Zhage. Would you grant me flight?
Zhage: I can do so...
Taurus: I would appreciate it, its a long way down.
Zhage chants and gestures towards Taurus. Soon, the magic dances across the knight's body.
Taurus lifts up into the air, hovering. He nods with appreciation of Zhages mystical abilities. He hovers forwards towards the hanging hammer.
Taurus: In the name of the dwarfkin of Thorbadin, under the instructions of Thornfel of the Hylar and in the company of Arman Kheras; I hereby claim the Hammer of Kheras!
The hammer swings to and fro but it is not difficult for you to grasp it. The hammer is enormous, and quite heavy, but you manage to snap it from the thread and carry it back with you.
Vexin Sixtoes claps for Taurus
Taurus grips it tightly, afraid it might fall. Craddling it in his arms he floats down to the platform before his companions, looking over the heavy hammer with awe.
Kharas: And so the hammer does not object to you taking it. Nor shall I.
Taurus: This is truly a work of art, just knowing what it has created in its long life is awe inspiring...
Arman looks on with pride. He can not contain his joy at this moment.
Taurus: We should leave this temple, no more will we defile it with our presence. Your people must be warned of the ensuing assault.
Taurus: Guardian of Kheras. I thank you for your wisdom and may you protect the final resting place of your master as well as you have guided us.
Kharas: I will show you the way down. come with me.
Taurus nods and follows the aged dwarf.
Kharas exits through the double doors into the courtyard.
Taurus follows at a brisk pace, securing the hammer in his pack so his hands are free.
As you exit the ruby tower you hear a roar pierce the cold air. Your gaze is shot upwards. There, you see perched atop the tower's cap is the red dragon of Verminaard. Ember!
Taurus: ...by the gods.
Taurus: Run!
Ember (In a Hissing Roar): So Old One, you consort with my enemies! More, you hide behind their puny form! Step aside; they are mine! No man holds me back now!
Kharas smiles.
Kharas: Begone, child! Do not tempt my anger. Do you desire death so?
Ember's lips curl in a cruel snarl.
Ember: No, Old One! It is you who tempt fate! I know the Oath; the power of your word binds you! Not even the terror of the dragonlance could bind one so well. Come, Evenstar, show these puny mortals what company they keep or has the Council stripped you of your pride, too?
The dwarf's face clouds with anger; his form swells, taking on a golden hue, stretching, and growing until a golden dragon stands in the dwarf's place. Ember laughs with derision.
Evenstar, the gold dragon, turns to you.
Evenstar: Ember is right; I may not interfere.
Ember (Bellows): Prepare to die!
Vexin Sixtoes: Ooooh
Ember takes to the air.
Taurus mouths the words 'motherfucker' as he almost stumbles back.