[Sat Jun 30 20:13:35 GMT+00:00 2001]

Camping down for the night you rest and eat preparing for the tower to come. The weather seems to be holding as the sun falls into the late sky. Along the tree line you can already see the mists begin to form, as the clearing stays relatively clear and the mists rolls down the embankments into the forest floor.

Isreal looks for another tree to keep away from the monsters on the ground.

[Kirarae]: "Love the mists Eh?"

Russeth sighs as he sits against the old wooden walls of the barn. "Tomorrow as the old man told us. We will travel one day to the south and we should reach that tower, however I sense the little trip might be altered so we should sleep well." Running a hand over the wounds on his left shoulders and lifting the bandages he smiles as it has gotten better. "How about sleeping with us inside the mill, Isreal? I think you will be a little safer. I'll take the first watch."

[Kirarae]: "We should look around for any supplies that might be useful"

Elina yawns as she wakes from her spot besides Russeth. Standing up, she tosses dried straws out of her blonde hair and approaches Zakren. "I was wondering if it will be too much to ask of you to teach me more of your faith. If possible I will like to become a member of your church and faith please?" Asking in a polite manner as she curtseys.

[Isreal]: "yes off to the tower get the loot then back to town to count or money an how about a rest a bit?"

Russeth nods confidently towards Kirarae, "Tomorrow before we depart maybe. The sun is about to set we should remain grouped."

Russeth nods at Isreal as he lets out another sigh and brings his hands to his hips. "Aye. And we can also re-supply for those who need it in a city."

Isreal tries to get just above the group where he can help out if anything comes in the night

Zakren snickers to him self at her comments as he makes a somewhat level spot for him self to sleep on. "Maybe lass in due time, these are currently not them.

Russeth stands up from his position as he looks at Isreal climbing in a nearby tree, "Whatever." Striding to the barn's apparent door he looks outside at the mist, smiling as he notices the clearing is clear of any. "Alright. Get some rest already, I will stay up."

Elina nods politely. "Yes I do agree Zakren. Perhaps when we have more time on our hands. I do wish to share your faith soon." Curtseying as she returns to Russeth's side. "Dinner anyone? Will need a fire though."

Russeth draws his longsword and slides along the wooden wall until he meets the shadows. "No thank you. Good night dear."

Isreal stays up most of the night getting little rest watching out for the others

Elina nods at Russeth. "Goodnight." As she lies upon the ground and sleeps.

Isreal sits in the tree looking through his book trying to gain some arcane knowledge trying desperately to keep his eyes open to watch for danger

Russeth comes out of the shadows, sheathing his sword in a very silent motion and dropping to a knee next to Kirarae. Shaking him softly, "The time for your first watch in our ranks has come. Fellow hunter." As he sits back on the ground for a moment then lies completely and drifts off to sleep.

Elina shifts a little as Russeth lies down next to her. Muttering something as she rolls a little to the left.

Isreal 's eyes drop several times and he nods off until his head drops down waking him sharply

Russeth comes out of the shadows, sheathing his sword in a very silent motion and dropping to a knee next to Zakren. Shaking him softly, "The time for your first watch in our ranks has come. Fellow hunter." As he sits back on the ground for a moment then lies completely and drifts off to sleep.

Zakren rolls over and looks over to Russeth. "It’s not my night to watch find someone else." Rolls back over and goes, back to sleep.

Kirarae blinks a few times as he awakens, but nods to Russ once he gains his bearings sitting down with his longsword and a whetstone and begins to sharpen it before going around to each one of his comrades and wakes them.

[Isreal]: "what do you want?" trying to whisper

[Elina]: "Huh? What?" muttering sleepily as, Kirarae wakes her from her reverie.

Russeth blinks for a moment as he looks up, then at his surroundings trying to make out if they are still the night or it's daytime.

[Kirarae]: "Morning has come"

Isreal looks around having fallen asleep during the night and not knowing it he starts studding the books once more

[Elina]: "Oh. Thank you Kirarae." Stretching as she stands from her spot. "This village might still have some useful herbs around. I will be near the village. Come running if you hear me shout. Ok dear?" Looking at Russeth as she turns and starts towards the east.

Russeth nods at Kirarae as he rubs his eyes and stretches his arms. "Nothing has happened. Good sign." He rolls over next to his backpack and withdraws a bread loaf from it, eating pieces by pieces he lies against the barn wall, "We should make it quick today. This one forest is a bit strange." Smiling he approaches Elina.

Russeth nods towards the lady as he watches her leave, "I will search the village. With Kirarae, I guess anyone can come to your help." Smiling still he turns and stares at Kirarae.

You wake to a fairly nice day of sunshine as you make your way outside, with no trees or fog to block your feeling of warmth as the sun shines down upon you. Taking your morning stretch you look off at the tree line and the thoughts of having to go back in the wet dismal forest yet again.

Isreal flips down from the tree like a monkey showing off his skills an stands an awaits the group

Kirarae stands up and nods "Lets look for what was the general store"

[Isreal]: "ha that is a joke witch is the general store " laughing

Russeth steps out of the mill and looks back at Kirarae, "If you can make out which building is what in here you are good. Actually you can go alone, I'll stay here I have some things to do."

Kirarae nods "I saw something strange last night, but I'll tell you once I’m finished"

Isreal takes a sip out of his wine skin an says we should start out I want to spend as little night time in the forest as I have to we are burning daylight you saw something strange why did you not wake us? Things like that could get us killed Kirarae "

Russeth quickly forgets about the idea of searching the town, he drops to a knee and runs his hand in the grass, drawing back a bit of dirt. He rubs his hands together to remove that dirt and then looks directly at the trees, his eyes twitching slightly. "And letting it pass by without warning it of our presence might also have saved us. Isreal."

You all exit the mill moving about the area seeing no signs of any stores left other then the ruins of a few structures left standing. You are able to notice the tracks of many beasts that have crossed the clearing from the south to the north.

[Kirarae]: "Had I woken you, you might have done something foolish. They were battered and worn torn from the looks of them. They meant us no harm."

Russeth nods to himself as he looks back within the mill and sighs. He notices Kirarae hasn't left yet and joins him, "I will go with you."

Isreal looks at the tracks

[Kirarae]: "So what now?"

[Isreal]: "these are boot tracks what did it look like?"

Russeth shrugs at Kirarae, "What now? Let's go see these still standing buildings." Deciding to take the lead he heads to the closest one in a straight line, if possible.

Kirarae follows along

Isreal keeps watch on the ranger from the mill

The remains of the buildings are nothing more then a shell of once was. Many barely stand held up by rotting planks of wood.

Elina shakes her head as she returns empty-handed. "Seems like the town is in total ruins. Found anything?"

Russeth glances inside each of them quickly, if he sees anything unusual or of interest, he will go in.

[Isreal]: "well I say we head out quickly witch way Zak do we head from here?"

Zakren turns to Isreal. "The old guy said south for a day then we are to look for light or something."

Kirarae looks to Russ "I saw an army last night, or what was left of one"

[Isreal]: "well these things came from the south if they don’t lead back we should be ok "

Russeth walks back with the rest of the party; "This town is indeed in ruins. We will head south already. There is no point in staying here any longer. And considering there might be an army around, even a better reason to leave." He grins.

[Zakren]: 'from what Kirarae said I don't think they will be back this way for a while."

[Kirarae]: "I'm worried"

[Isreal]: "well we should hurry time is wasting death waits for no man " laughing

[Elina]: "I did not find any herbs of any use dear." Looking disappointedly at Russeth as she glides to a stop besides him.

Russeth grabs his backpack and tosses it atop his shoulders, "Don't worry. You’re fine with us." Smiling at Elina, "Bah. It’s no big deal, there will be plenty of herbs on the way."

Isreal eats some rations an says, "I did nothing useful " smiling with his mouth full

Russeth follows the tracks to the southern end of town and then looks straight ahead.

After soaking in what you could of the sun and searching the ruins you leave before loosing the day in the woods, you gather your gear and once again make a trek into the woods from the southeastern side of the village. As you proceed down into the flooded forest floor and fog that has yet to burn off. A winding path can been seen running across the muck and the mud from the beings that passed in the night.

Elina smiles at Russeth's comforting words as she gathers her equipment’s and prepares for the day's journey ahead.

Isreal puts the food away and heads out behind Russeth

[Kirarae]: "I'm wondering what awaits us south. That army was not in high spirits, so I’m guess they had withdrawn. And since there were only about a hundred of them left, it started out quite sizeable.

Russeth shrugs at Kirarae, "Were they an organized army running in ranks. Or were they just cowering from something?"

[Isreal]: "well Kirarae there are times where small strikes are far better that large all-out wars"

[Kirarae]: "Organized, still in rank. Humanoid at that."

Zakren listens to the words. "Maybe they were routed from a battle and sought to hide their escape by retreating in the woods. Or maybe something else happened."

[Kirarae]: "I'm curious as to what the something else could have been"

Russeth begins walking southwards, following the tracks as long as they head to the south. "I don't know either. We will find out in due time. So many possibilities."

[Isreal]: "maybe they where on there way to battle an cut through the wood as a short cut to the war grounds"

Elina listens intently at Kirarae's comments while she looks at the tracks. "We should follow the track. However I suggest we travel a distance away from it. Least anything is following that troop Kirarae saw the night before."

Isreal follows the ranger not wanting to stay in the ruins alone

[Kirarae]: "They were coming from battle. No troop, even militia goes into combat in that shape"

You continue to do so for several hours as the sun finally burns off the fog about you, using the trail has made the wood travel somewhat easier. The woods have been quiet for the most part of your morning travel as you see up in a tree before you a large black bird that roosts upon a branch hanging over your crude path. It sits their calmly watching you as you make you're way along deeper into the southern, woods of the forest.

[Isreal]: "that bird is does not have a good intent look how it watches us"

Isreal lowers his head away from the bird and pushes onward

[Elina]: "Might be a familiar. Best we watch ourselves from now on." Saying as she follows Russeth.

Kirarae looks to Elina "What do you say, you seem to be the most magically inclined of us all."

Russeth glances up at the bird and smiles, he takes a few steps forward and presents his arm forward, then letting out a few bird cries, he tries to modify the animal's attitude towards the party.

Elina smiles at Kirarae's comment. "I am yet to be a great mage my friend. But I do know of familiars as such. Eyes for a wizard they are."

You pass by the large bird perched in the trees as it slowly turns its eye upon you as you go by. It pays little mind to Russeth and his bird like calls.

Isreal looks down the trail thinking hope the gem is worth all this

[Kirarae]: "Could you find out if that one is, if so I'm gonna poke this wizard's eye out"

[Isreal]: "Russeth may be able to tell ya but not I"

Russeth shrugs as he looks up at the animal, "It seems not to like people that much. Let’s move on, keep an eye open. If that bird follows us then it won't be a good sign."

Elina ponders at Kirarae's suggestion. "I may be able to do something. Ready your bow. Shoot it the moment I complete my spells." Saying as she starts muttering some arcane words.

Kirarae nocks an arrow into his bow awaiting the word from Elina

Russeth turns around and glares at Elina, "What? You intend to kill it just to know if it's a familiar? Even if it is. Do we want to provoke its owner? You don't want to provoke a wizard."

Zakren looks up "Yeah just kill an unknown mages familiar why not that’s all we will need." Laughing as he shakes his head making his way up to Isreal.

[Isreal]: "yeah kill it crows is good eating" smiling keeps moving laughing with Zak.

Russeth continues walking into the track, not looking back, and watching the surroundings.

Elina stops her spell before its completion at Russeth's comment. Bowing her head in shame. "Well it will hurt the wizard a great deal if his familiar is killed."

[Isreal]: "well just kill it and lets move on" walks faster

Kirarae looks to Russ "Your call..."

Elina follows Russeth silently, sulking, as her love does not trust her judgement.

Leaving the bird behind you make your way along as the ground beneath you begins to harden some as you see the water is once again residing away. Above you the sun is begin to fall as the night slowly pushes in with the first signs of mists appearing behind you in the water soaked woods. Making your way a bit farther you are just about upon dry land as you look for a place to camp for the night, not seeing any tree of lights around you that the old man spoke of.

Russeth sighs in relief as they decide to leave the bird alone. "Good idea."

Isreal says, "where’s the tree? If that old man was pulling our leg I will go back an lash him something fierce"

Russeth looks down at the ground, glad it is not as flooded as the part of the forest they came from. "Maybe we will need to camp again before go on further. Now that we are on a somewhat harder ground it might not be that bad of an idea, looking down at the ground, trying to see if the tracks still go further.

Kirarae sits down around the fire with a bit of wax and his bow

[Isreal]: "ok great lets camp but there’s no sigh of the tower"

[Elina]: "Do we have any meat left Kirarae? I will like to cook a little tonight."

Russeth nods at Isreal. "There's a lot of mist. We won't see anything at that time. That’s why we must camp."

Isreal looks at Kirarae "hay can you make those? Or only use them?"

Russeth sighs as he gathers some wood and piles it up in front of Kirarae, quickly building a fire for the evening and for Elina to cook. "Aye. Perhaps meat will be a little change."

[Isreal]: "well Kirarae you going to talk or just sit there waxing your bow" smiling

Elina smiles at Russeth as she waits patiently for Kirarae to pass her the meat.

Kirarae hands Elina a small bundle

Russeth gets the fire going rather largely as the rest of you sit about.

Elina nods her thanks as she goes about adding salt and a little ginger to the meat roasting it over the fire.

[Isreal]: "well I thought Russeth had a bad attitude toward me, at least he would talk to me no matter how foolish my question".

Russeth rubs his hands together after finally getting that fire going. "Well go ahead and cook your thing now, Hun." Turning towards Isreal he shrugs, "When you do stupid stuff. At least."

Elina cooks up some meat in no time over the ranging fire that licks the leaves above it in the trees.

Russeth reaches for his waterskin and pours down some of the content into his mouth, "That fire is hmm. Large maybe we should put it down and start a smaller one?" He stands up quickly as the fire almost reaches the leaves.

[Elina]: "The meat is done. Come and get your share." Smiling at herself as the scent of well cook meat drifts into her nose.

[Isreal]: "I don’t say you leave that meat out it will attract attention we don’t want" looks around wondering what else has smelled the food cooking

Preparing to eat you hears the screams of what sounds like a man, running through the woods. You hear it for a several minutes before all goes quiet once more leaving only the call of the wild.

Russeth shrugs as no one gives an answer he tosses his waterskin over his backpack and watches the fire, then turning around from the long screams, "Does that mean we're close to the tower or something?" Drawing his swords quickly.

Isreal stands an pulls his dagger what’s that was that a man?'

Elina drops her share of meat as she stands and moves quickly behind Russeth while readying a spell.

[Isreal]: "I don’t like that " looking out into the mist

Russeth glances over at Isreal but does not reply; instead watching into the mists at nothingness in the direction the screams came from.

You stand about staring off into the darkness and swirling mist. You can see nothing nor hear anything in your general area.

Isreal says we should get back to back we don’t want what happened to hawk to happen to us"

[Russeth]: looks around at his companions. "I guess this really means we have to stay on watch a bit more. We will stay up in pairs tonight, what do you say?"

Elina nods at Isreal as she turns her back at Russeth and covers his back.

[Isreal]: "yeah that’s a better idea that only one" Puts his back into the circle of the group.

Russeth nods at Isreal and turns to Kirarae, "I will stay up with Elina. You two can take care of the other half of the night." While pointing to both Kirarae and Isreal.

Zakren nods, as he didn't hear his name and returns to eating some of the roasted meat.

Elina nods. "What about Zakren?"

[Zakren]: 'appear I have the night off lass." Laughing at her comment.

Russeth shrugs, "I can get some rest while you watch with him. If you insist?" Smiling as he looks back at him.

[Isreal]: "ok I will I hope I don’t get taken like hawk" looking out into the mist

[Zakren]: "Taken he wasn't taken he is over there with druid in the bushes."

Russeth nods at Isreal, "We need to sleep closer tonight. So gather up next to the fire."

[Isreal]: "I but part of his shoulder was taken " kind of laughing

Elina giggles at Zakren's comment as she huddles closer to Russeth.

Isreal pulls up some ground and pulls out a blanket an beds down for the night

Russeth stands up at the edge of the camp, his blades drawn he sighs again, "I hope we're close."

Kirarae continues tending to his bow

You sit about the area as Zakren and Isreal have gone off to sleep, sounds of snoring can be heard coming from where Druid and Hawk are assuring you they are to.

Elina watches the other side of the camp intently as the rest sleeps.

Russeth watches across the camp, seeing the fog is not all that dense, he feels a bit reassured.

[Kirarae]: "I wonder sometimes if that fog isn't natural"

Elina turns a glance to the side of her eyes to catch a glimpse of Russeth. Getting up from her spot, she approaches Isreal and wakes him. "Its your watch now Isreal. Wake up."

Russeth strolls by Isreal and is about to tuck him with his feet as he notices Elina walking by, letting her take care of the business he walks back to his spot and beds down for the night ignoring Kirarae's comment.

Isreal wakes up "wolves men what, what, what" gets up and looks around "watch great"

[Elina]: "No it’s your turn to watch." Yawning as she goes to a spot near Russeth and rest her self-down.

Kirarae nods off, bow in hands

Russeth passes his left arm under Elina's head as somewhat of a pillow and smiles, slipping into a state of trance himself quickly.

Elina makes herself comfortable, lying her head upon Russeth's arm as she drifts off into a reverie.

Isreal starts the waking of the group walking to each person tapping them lightly, then starts looking off into the woods hoping this day will take them to the tower.

Zakren yawns and rolls over, before getting up to go relieve him self in the bushes. Soon after you see him tip toe to another area of the bushes and continue his business.

Elina hugs Russeth as she wakes, waking him in the process.

Russeth wakes up to the first tap of Isreal and opens a single eye, noticing Elina hugging him he smiles and rises his head, placing his lips upon hers and hugging back.

Kirarae puts his bow away rubbing his eyes

Elina giggles at Russeth's unusual show of affection. "Morning Darling." Standing, she starts packing, getting ready for the tower.

[Isreal]: "I see trust comes quickly to rangers it seams I was the only one up " smiling

Zakren returns after waking Hawk and Druid up. "SO are we off or no?" Chewing down on some rations.

[Russeth]: "How are you this morning. Hun?" He is quickly up on his feet and stretching his neck, arms and legs. "I'm ready for some tower stuff." He reaches down into his backpack and withdraws the wineskin, accompanied of a small sugar bun. He guzzles down some water, and then uses some more to clean his mouth. "Indeed Isreal. I was testing your trustworthiness." Smiling back at Elina he tosses the sugar bun into his mouth.

[Isreal]: "yeah let’s get off on to the tower"

Elina smiles at Russeth. "Doing fine I guess." Singing a little song to her self as she gets ready.

Russeth scratches his head as he stumbles toward his backpack and packs up his belongings. "Keep your eyes open. We are looking for trees of light. I think so."

[Isreal]: "well you just got lucky I need ya to fend off these monsters everyone keep up about"

Russeth shrugs as he walks pass Isreal and near the tracks. "Let's move it."

You wake once again to the morning light as it pokes its way through the treetops. Making a fine day to make your way onward into the unknown. Eating and gathering your gear you once again set out through the woods. You travel on for several hours it seems when you come to a small river some 25' foot across, the waters are calm and still as the current pulls along from its depths down stream. Across the river you see the lone figure of a large black bird watching from above in the trees.

[Elina]: "Darling, can you tell if it’s the same bird we saw the day before?" Pointing at the bird as she speaks.

[Isreal]: "see that bird has it out for us I am telling ya "

Russeth ponders a moment, his clenched fists resting upon his hips. "That bird is here again. I don't like that." Remembering the first one to his best, he raises an eyebrow. "I don't know. We need to find a way to cross this river."

Zakren looks across the waters to the bird. "Oh come on what do you think there is only one of its kind. Besides we have not wronged any mages yet so why would one be stalking us?"

Kirarae shakes his head about the bird "How deep is the water?"

[Elina]: "We are heading towards one." Pointing it out patiently to Zakren.

[Isreal]: "we did talk about what we where going to do in the village you don’t think mages get info from towns?"

Russeth shrugs at Zakren. "True, cleric. We haven't hurt any wizard in any way. No point in starting now. I have no idea how deep it is." He looks down the river and shrugs. "Let's just swim across." Taking a few steps in, reluctantly pressing onward to see its depth.

Elina shivers at Russeth's suggestion. "I can't swim..."

Russeth shakes his head with a smile. "You can probably by use of a rope."

[Isreal]: "neither can I an I am not going in there may be another large snake"

Russeth takes a few steps into the water as he drops off an underwater ledge and submerges, at which time two large slashes can be heard coming from down stream as you see to large lizard like creatures swimming along the surface towards him.

Russeth quickly makes his way back up the ledge.

[Kirarae]: "I have an idea"

The two alligators pass by you as they skim the water surface propelling them self along with their massive tails.

Elina starts muttering arcane words as she reaches into her spell pouch drawing forth some iron powder.

Isreal watches what the animals are going to do

Kirarae ties the end of his rope to an arrow and nocks it in his bow "If I can make it across I'll secure the rope more soundly"

Zakren laughs, "Yeah well you do what you want I look for a shallow place to cross there has to be one either up or down stream somewhere."

Russeth makes his way out of water. "That's a very abrupt underwater ledge. What’s up with all of them."

[Isreal]: "well you just don’t have any luck Russeth"

Russeth shrugs as he gets out and dries himself off the best he can. "Ya. I guess."

Elina holds the last syllabus of her spell as she waits for the alligators to make a move.

Isreal says "just back away from the water Elina they where just looking to sample a small bit of ranger"

Russeth sees no harm in the alligators he walks back away from the river, and then looks upstream. "Let's go upstream first."

Kirarae looks for a strong tree to shoot his arrow into

Elina sighs as she replaces her component back into her pouch. "Do be more careful darling." Saying as if she is lecturing a child as she starts moving upstream.

Looking around for a suitable area to cross. You make you way up stream some where you can see up ahead of you some sort of pile up of trees and branches laying across the water.

Isreal follows Russeth hope he knows what’s the right way

Kirarae replaces his bow "Guess that won't be needed"

[Isreal]: "that looks shallow enough Russeth you want to cross first" smiling

Russeth glances at the pile of debris and sighs, "Let's see if we can cross there. Probably home of a wildlife animal. A beaver probably." He smiles as he makes his way closer to the pile.

Coming to the area of debris you can now see that it indeed a fallen tree across the water which has blocked up several branches and other debris from up stream. Perched out on one of the branches running along the water surface sits a small water turtle. As you near the tree it turns its head and slips into the murky depths of the water.

Isreal says "I will cross first I have the best balance"

[Elina]: "I suggest we make a rope train. Incase anyone falls into the water."

Zakren looks at the bridge leading across to the tree. "Ok now who is going first?" Looking about to the others.

Isreal gets set up to cross the tree balancing the weight in his back

Russeth shakes his head as he watches ahead. "You go ahead and try. I'm tired of falling in the depths of rivers and lakes anyway."

Kirarae grins at Russ "But you’re so good at it"

Isreal has made his way safely across to the other side. "Toss me a rope an I will tie it off, other than that make your way across"

Russeth hops on the tree and smiles, "Hand me the rope I will carry it across."

Zakren hops up on the log with Russeth and makes his way safely across to the other side.

Elina waits patiently for the others to throw her a rope, since she isn't agile to make it across the river safely to the other side a top the tree.

Hawk looks at the tree. "Blah it seems easy enough Russeth just go across".

Russeth watches across at Elina, "Isreal, toss your rope across?"

Isreal tosses the rope an holds it tight

Hawk makes his way over behind Russeth safely to the other side.

Kirarae begins walking across the Tree Bridge.

The alligators can be seen lurking in the murky water waiting for another mid, morning snack but seems they will need to look elsewhere.

Elina shakes her head as she ties the rope around her waist. "Drag me in real fast if I fall." as she starts to cross the log.

Kirarae makes it across safely leaving the two ladies left to cross over.

Russeth glares down at the alligators, "Hey. I don't like the looks of these alligators."

[Isreal]: "throw something at them".

Russeth draws his longsword slowly as he watches them cross and then the alligators.

[Isreal]:"hurry now the tower waits"

Druid gets up and follows behind Elina staying close to her as Elina slips and falls into the waters she pulls Druid with her and with lightning speed you hear a splash and bubbles with the churning of the waters below. Blood pops up to the surface as the ripple fade away into the waters. Elina pops up and tries to swim to shore as no signs of Druid are seen.

Isreal pulls the rope as fast as he can

Russeth draws his longsword forward as he steps on the tree. "Damnit. Pull her back." He exclaims quickly as he looks behind her, hoping to see Druid pop up as well.

Isreal pulls Elina to the other side and pulls her on shore and leans over her "consider the debt repaid my lady"

Elina reaches shore with the help of the rope as no signs can be seen of Druid.

Elina screams as she reaches the shore. "Druid! Druid!" Crying as she sees no sight of her friend.

Isreal helps her to her feet. "Where is druid what happened? NO....."

Russeth sheaths his longsword and draws a small knife, staring down at the waters, watching for the alligators or Druid, "These beasts. We should've KILLED them!"

Zakren mumbles a few words to him self-standing near the shore as one of the alligators can be seen swimming away down stream.

Isreal "dam the water nothing good comes from it "

[Kirarae]: "She is lost to Nature."

Elina weeps silently, refusing Isreal's helping hand as she sits upon the shore. Tears trickles down her lovely face as she continues weeping.

Russeth doesn't know how to react, he breathes heavily as he watches the alligator leave, sheathing his knife a moment later and kneeling next to the shore.

Zakren looks on "Kind of makes you wonder if those screams we heard were those of the paladin." Shrugging it off he looks off into the proceeding woods.

[Isreal]: "well I loved here as much as anyone but we must go there a better place to mourn her"

Russeth gets back to his feet, grabbing his belt and pulling up once to make himself more comfortable. "Let's finish what we have come for. Quickly."

Elina continues weeping, refusing to leave her friend's place of decease.

[Isreal]: "you better drag her Russeth we must be away from the water before night fall if at all possible I would like to make the tower this night"

Russeth sighs deeply as he lets his arm fall to his sides, and shakes his head as he walks by Elina. "Dear. We shouldn't. We shouldn't stay here now."

Elina shakes her head furiously. "She died because of me! How can I leave her be?" Tears shrieks down her face as she stares at Russeth.

Isreal starts to move south trying to get the group moving

[Russeth]: "You know there is nothing we can do for her anymore. She did not die because of you..."

While Elina pouts along the shore an alligator lunges out of the water and latches on to her cloak dragging her towards the water.

Isreal runs back mumbling arcane words as he runs

Russeth tries to help Elina up, "Come on." He notices the alligator reaching for her as he pulls upon her furiously.

Kirarae grabs his longsword and tries to stab the beast

The beast begins to roll along the shore wrapping her cloak around its mouth as it pulls her off the shore.

[Elina]: "Help!" Shouting in shock as she gets drag back into the water.

Russeth draws his swords and jumps in the river, his swords angled for a piercing blow at the head of the creature.

Kirarae strikes at the beast with his sword as he fails to strike it but Isreal sends a beam of white light straight into its head as it tears off a section of her cloak and swims to deeper water trailing the garment.

Isreal saying a few finishing words and points his finger down at the beast light flies from his finger hitting the beast

Elina scrambles back to shore and crawls in Russeth's arms, seeking comfort.

Zakren looks on; "Well I guess your ready to leave now aren't ya lass?"

Russeth pulls Elina closer to him as he steps back away from the water. "Holy... let's get away from this cursed place."

Elina nods silently at Russeth as she faints in his arms. Her body doing slum as she faints.

[Isreal]: "I told ya but no I am always wrong no one pays attention to me " walking off into the woods south

Russeth shakes Elina as she faints, "Hey. Wake up now. You’re okay." He looks confused as he lifts her head up.

[Kirarae]: "Once she get s over the shock she'll be ok"

Elina shakes her head weakly. Puffy eyes stares into Russeth's. "Help me get away from here." Saying in a whisper as she tries to find her feet.

Isreal Zakren and Hawk have moved on off into the woods while the rest of you stand back by the river.

Russeth notices Isreal leaving and sighs; reaching a hand behind Elina's delicate legs he lifts her up and carries her behind. "Now I hope nothing more tries to get in our way. For a few hours."

Once everyone is across safely you can now continue on into the woods. This side of the land appears to be dry and normal for this time of the year as it must be set higher then the rest of the land avoiding the soaking waters from the other side. Moving along for a few hours you see the sun is heading towards the late sky giving only a few hours of light before all is dark again.

Elina cuddles Russeth's neck, as she lies weakly in Russeth's arms.

Isreal looking at Zak "we will have to stop outside the tower for everyone to rest if we reach the tower this day"

[Zakren]: "Maybe, depends if this tower is empty or full. But we have to find it first."

[Isreal]: "we should camp here an wait for the others start a fire someone"

Russeth shrugs at Isreal's comment even if it was to Zakren. "If we do not find this tower today. I suggest continuing to travel at night, will give us a better chance to see that ‘light’. The fog is not as dense here as it was back before the ruins."

Elina doze off within the comfort of Russeth's arms, tired out from the day's experiences.

[Isreal]: "well Russeth it’s your call but I have seen no signs of lights out here

[Zakren]: "Well, its still light out I guess we won't see much of lights until night fall." Just my opinion though."

Russeth grumbles a bit, as he helps Elina get to her feet now that they have stopped. "This is taking too long. We can rest a bit until it's nightfall like you are saying. And then make a little reckon of the area."

[Isreal]: "your right but well its up to you guys what ever ya want to do but she looks like she needs rest"

Elina mumbles as Russeth tries to set her down. Holding on tighter, she hugs him closer still.

[Russeth]: "Yeah well I guess the events can be exhausting. But I guess. A few hours of rest will be fine. Huh?" He stares at Elina's eyes as he speaks.

Isreal takes out his book and starts looking it over before he goes to bed

You sit about the area as the sun once again falls from the sky giving way to the night; this comes as no surprise as the cries of the wolves within the woods can again be heard.

Russeth looks a bit unsure about the area as he glares around for signs of the fog.

Isreal studies his books more before he takes his rest.

No signs of fog or mist can be seen from your area at this time, as you look out into the darkness now enveloping you.

Russeth glares into the darkness, "We need to move now and search for these trees. We went upstream at the river and therefore changed our direction."

Elina screams suddenly from her sleep. Jumping up from within Russeth's arms as she does. "Druid!" Her eyes widen in shock as she slowly recognizes it was just a nightmare.

Russeth almost bounces off the ground as Elina screams. "Whaaaaa...."

Isreal wakes at the scream and jumps to his feet

[Russeth]: "Good thing. You woke everyone up. Let’s get moving in the night. We can maybe spot these trees. All right?" He looks around for answers.

Elina nods slowly at Russeth too stun to answer as she stares into the woods.

[Isreal]: "very well lets move" taking his wine skin from his side an sips from it

With the day now gone you scour about looking for this tree of lights in the night. As of yet you have not seen any sign of a tower anywhere in the woods. When you come across a small crude trail running through the woods.

Russeth watches the trail with interest and kneels down next to it, closing his eyes and raising his head, he touches the edge.

[Isreal]: "what is it?" "Have you found something

Russeth shrugs at Isreal. "Well there's a trail. Remains to know which way is the good one."

[Isreal]: "well what to do fearless leader"

Russeth spins around and watches the others with a smile he approaches Elina. "This trail seems to lead north and south. Let us go to the south for now and see if it leads to a potential tower."

Elina stands behind Russeth, feeling more herself after the lost of Druid has pass, looks at the trail. "Maybe if we wait for dawn, we will be able to tell which direction we should head for."

[Isreal]: "ok lets move out no need standing here"

Russeth begins marching southward. "Might not be that bad of an idea Elina."

Elina manages a smile at Russeth as she follows his lead. Singing a soft song of moaning as she does.

Following the trail for some time up ahead a mule is standing by an obelisk on the right hand side of a bridge. The ten-foot wide moss covered drawbridge spans over what appears to be a moat surrounding a large tree. The mule stands there quietly tied to the obelisk. Across the bridge you see it stops near two small 3 foot high stone walls as the trail goes on to end at the base of the large tree, set in its trunk is an entryway of sorts. Leading to what looks like from here a set of double doors cast within a dim ghostly light. On the outside of the tree above the entry way some 20feet overhead is a lantern and 20feet above the lantern is a solitary 6-inch wide arrow slit that you see commonly among castles. Above the slit the tree is shrouded by mist. As the two massive chains that pull the bridge up for defense hang from well above in the mists.

[Isreal]: "what about the lighted tree?" we should not see it in the day"

Hawk peers up from the bushes; "hey look someone left their ass unattended." As he mumbles about thieves.

[Isreal]: "yeah they did or is it food?"

As you watch the bridge, as you see a young man emerge from the double doors carrying several empty sacks. He hesitates in the entryway, before removing something from his pouch upon his belt. He then walks across the bridge with the item held at arm's length. As he reaches his mule the young man puts away the item back in his pouch. In the dim light you could not see what he held, apparently he hasn't seen you either. The man puts the sacks upon the mule and checks the animals harness as he prepares to leave.

Russeth stares at the arrow-slit for a moment, bringing his hands to his hilt. "Prudence is the key. That has to be the tower we were told." He narrows his eyes a bit, "You think. Someone lives here?"

[Isreal]: "for some beast that guard the tower"

Russeth steps forward towards the man blurts out "Who goes there?"

Russeth cries out and with that done the young man leads his mule off down the darkened trail as he makes his way quickly off into the woods. As you see the tree begins to glow with tiny little lights spread out across its branches and trunk. The upper tree may have lights like the lower area as tiny twinkles of light can be seen through the swirling mists above.

Isreal disappears from sight.

Russeth shrugs as he watches the man leave, "This is strange. This man seemed to go in there without any problem, you think there's really anything evil about that place anyhow?" Pondering for a moment he makes his way to the edge of the bridge, drawing his swords at midway.

Isreal appears "great just great all that time back at the river, we have lost the loot to another raider"

Watching the area for any signs of life since the young man left, have shown no movements. Off in the nearby woods you here the howl of wolves not far off. When shortly later you hear the scream of a man and the nay of a mule coming from within its dark reaches. The wolves have gone from howling to what sounds like fighting off in the night.

Russeth is more on his guards than he was before, having been surprised twice in a week that almost caused his death.

Isreal "yes he was caught by the wolves we should have no problem getting the gem now"

[Elina]: "The man! He is in trouble! We should help him," exclaiming as she starts turning towards the scream.

Isreal stands ready for first light to head out to find the man

Russeth looks down below the bridge away from the other's sight and sighs, spinning around as he hears the fighting. "Leave the man alone. We will just not be as foolish as him." He glares at the high doors in the tree, and narrows his eyes.

[Isreal]: "well we should wait until morning to find him anyway

Russeth nods at Isreal as he finally agrees with something. "All right. Let’s camp now, but we will be watching by pairs again. By REAL pairs."

Elina nods reluctantly. "Well if we find it anyway. The wolves probably drag his corpse to their den if we wait."

Russeth shakes his head at Elina; "It's not even worth the risk. We need to rest."

Kirarae goes off into the bushes and what seems, like vomiting sounds come from within.

[Isreal]: "yeah lets rest for the night maybe explore the tower"

Zakren looks over at the lass. "Well what fool in their right mind unlike us would travel these woods in the night?"

Elina sits herself down beside Russeth once more as she seeks comfort within his embrace. Looking at Kirarae as she speaks. "What is wrong Kirarae?"

[Isreal]: "what’s wrong with Kirarae, alone at that Zak that is really foolish"

Hawk snickers. "He has a weak stomach it seems." Laughing as he beds down for the night keeping his blade close at hand.

Russeth shakes his head as he still stares at the tower, but sits down next to Elina. "Rest dear. I will wake you up once my laugh is over."

Hawk mumbles something from his bed. "Maybe he was only putting the mule away and we scared him off only to lead to his demise."

Elina shakes her head as she looks at Zakren. "Well we will never know. We ain't the only fool around in this world you know." Giggling as she finds it funny.

[Isreal]: "I don’t think so not our luck hawk"

[Hawk]: "Then on the bright side maybe the wolves will have their fill on him and leave us alone tonight." As he rolls over and takes a deep breath.

[Isreal]: "yeah maybe your right "Isreal rolls over an falls asleep

Elina sighs in comfort as she lay her head upon Russeth's lap, drifting slowly into reverie.

Kirarae returns to camp wiping his mouth

Russeth shudders as he watches Kirarae coming back, "What's up with you Kirarae?"

Zakren looks to Kirarae. "You all right there, you look a bit pale tonight?"

Kirarae shakes his head "I'll be alright"

Russeth smiles as he runs a hand over Elina's hair. "Alright then. You okay with taking first watch with me?"

Russeth shrugs as he waits not for an answer and looks away, "Just keep your eyes open for anything about."

Zakren smiles and beds down for the night to try and get some rest, taking shelter under a bush.

Russeth shakes Elina off as he begins to feel a wee bit tired. "Dear. I think it's time for a little watch." Smiling he looks down at her eyes.

Kirarae nudges Hawk "Its your watch" then sulks to his bed

Hawk opens his eyes and sighs as he rolls over to sit up. "Yeah, yeah I’m watching." Gets up and makes his way to the edge of camp, standing with his back towards you.

Elina slowly opens her eyes and notices Russeth's. Smiling a little, she gets up to a sitting position and resume watch. "Alright dear. Get some rest."

Russeth slips quickly into a trance, sitting cross-legged against one of the poles.

Elina gently wakes Russeth, as he is the closest to her. Standing, she starts waking Isreal and the rest.

Isreal sleeps thinking of the anger of coming in here for nothing

Hawk walks around as the lass gently wakes you up. "Ok everybody up! Time to move on."

Isreal wakes up and stretches before eating a little and goes use the bathroom. "Now what explore the tower or go for the man we saw last night?"

You wake to the morning light as you have survived yet another night in the woods. With the coming of the light the tree no longer twinkles as you look up to see quite the large house set up in its branches where the mists once swirled.

Elina shrugs at Isreal. "Sure. But how can we be sure this is the tower?"

Zakren looks at the lass. "Well the old man said the tree of lights how many trees did you see with lights on or about it?"

[Elina]: "Oh." Blushing at Zakren's comment. "I did not hear him said that. My attention was somewhere else...." Shifting her feet as she bows her head, embarrass.

[Isreal]: "well what now Russeth or we sit here with our hands up or ass? Explore the house of follow the man?"

Russeth was still sleeping but he rolls over as Isreal speaks, "What? Give me some time to wake up."

[Elina]: "Maybe we should look for the man's body. He might hold a key."

[Kirarae]: "we could knock"

[Isreal]: "well wake up then you’re the leader you should be able to make a decision as soon as you wake"

Russeth stands up quickly, stretching his muscles. "We will go see the tower, IF and only if it needs a key that we cannot assume." Leaning towards Isreal, "How about you check that bridge closely. Make sure it's not some kind of trap."

Russeth smiles at Elina. "What was I saying. Oh yeah. If it requires a key we might go see about the man. For now let's try to get in there without having to go to a wolf's den."

Isreal looks over the bridge carefully

Elina smiles at Russeth and nods. "Lets go then." Saying as she watches Isreal.

Russeth packs up his gear and tosses in another sugar bun, then walks over to Isreal and looks down as he works. "You're a thief. You should be doing that in seconds. Hurry up." He smiles as he looks down at him.

[Isreal]: "it looks clean slippery though an there bubbles in the water maybe some of those beasts from the river in there Elina should maybe not cross. Well when it comes to traps you take you time so as not to take your own life"

[Elina]: "Not cross? You intend to leave me out here alone?" Looking at Isreal with hurtful eyes.

Zakren snickers at his comment as he looks up. Hmm well seems that bird is back again." Pointing up to the tree.

[Isreal]: "if there’s nothing in that dam house I say we claim it as the groups house maybe clear the woods start an inn here " laughing

Russeth sighs at Isreal, "Same for decisions. Now stop trying to push me to do stuff in a hurry." He looks up at the tree and shrugs, "Oh well. So far this bird hasn't been that bad."

Elina smiles at the bird as she holds out a little bread, tempting it.

[Russeth]: "An inn within a madman's tower. Oh. Good idea." He presses upon the bridge with his left foot, keeping the other one safe on the ground.

Isreal starts to cross the bridge to the other side.

Russeth watches him crossing the bridge and waits for the results patiently.

Isreal makes it to the other side of the bridge with out a problem.

Isreal starts out across the bridge as he slips and slides to the other side with relative ease.

Isreal takes out his rope an tosses it over "how about I pull you all across?"

Russeth withdraws his rope from his backpack and hops on, sliding to the other side.

[Elina]: "Hmm toss me a rope? Or carry me across?" Giggling as she grabs the rope and ties it around her waist.

Isreal pulls the entire group across

Russeth comes to a stop before the door and turns around, staring at his rope. "Let me give you an hand with that." He grips part of the rope tightly

Rising up out of the moat is a large beast with six snakelike heads. The eyes peering down upon you as the heads start an attack upon Russeth and Isreal.

Kirarae seems to sulk a bit still, and he looks a bit pale

[Isreal]: "once across don’t go traipsing forward I would like to search for traps left over please"

Elina starts muttering a spell as she grabs some power from her pouch.

Isreal takes action and starts mumbling a words

Hawk rushes over to the waters-edge to strike at the beast.

Russeth watches his rope he slides back across the bridge the best he can. "Don't stay there, Isreal!" He draws both his blades on the way, twirling them out and stopping before Elina.

[Isreal]: "well that’s bigger than one of those beasts back at the river" Trying to get into the passage for shelter.

Elina completes the last syllabus of her arcane spell. The iron powders, within her palm glows bright and vanishes into thin air as she focuses her attention upon Russeth.

At the end of Elina's words nothing seems to happen as the beats turns to the larger group.

Kirarae aims at the beast and lets loose two arrows as he watches as the arrow sticks into the beast and then lets loose another, which flies off missing everything

Zakren stands back in awe at the beast debating on what action to take.

As you converge upon the beast the heads dart back and fourth striking Russeth, then Zakren, while two others strike Kirarae and Hawk. The remaining two go upon Isreal missing him both times.

Russeth dodges to the side, unable to avoid a bite from the large beast's head; his swords remain angled toward his foe, launching a first assault on the creature's body, and remains close as he hops from side to side.

Kirarae jumps back and lets loose two more arrows

Isreal wipes his head and moves a little more back into the passage muttering the words to his spell. Finishing the words and a bright light brighter than before flies forth and strikes the beasts head one of them that is.

Kirarae grits his teeth through the blood and lets another volley of arrows loose at the beast, still only one sticking in.

Russeth slashes brutally almost on the same spot with two furious and quick blows, the hits are almost identical as blood drips down the lizard-like body.

Elina unties the rope around her waist quickly and retreats a, fair distance, from the monster while facing it.

Russeth glares at Zakren, "Zakren. Stand back. Heal those in the need if you can."

Zakren pulls his mace as he swings hard at the beast sending his mace backward through the air.

Hawk attacks upon the beast missing it cleanly.

Zakren looks at his empty hands. "Yes I agree Russ", running back towards Elina.

The creature lunges forward striking Russeth three times, and Zakren once in the back as he flees. The other two miss as they dart about over your heads.

Russeth retracts his swords, diving below one of the necks, however making himself an easier target he is hit three times, while remaining on his feet he twirls the blade stylishly and attempts to sink the short sword in the creature's body. Holding it upside down and follows up with another slash from the longsword.

Isreal looks for the switch for the drawbridge hoping it will lift by its self

Elina starts muttering some arcane words as she points her finger at the creature. Upon completing her spell, wind swirls around her finger, gathering into a bolt of white and flies forth at the creature.

Russeth glances over his shoulder in the process, "I could be seen as someone in need of healing, Zakren."

[Isreal]: "if I can get this bridge to raze you get the beast under the dam thing I can’t do anything, if I go out on the bridge to fight I will fall in all I have is this dagger"

Russeth almost lost his grip on his longsword as he slashed, but was able to maintain control, on the bright side his short sword pierced deep into the creature's flesh.

Isreal looks around for anything

Zakren returns back to the front line to assist Russeth.

Russeth blurts out; "Does it know you are there?"

Hawk swings again missing once more.

Elina starts muttering some arcane words as she points her finger at the creature. Upon completing her spell, wind swirls around her finger, gathering into a bolt of white and flies forth at the creature's body.

[Isreal]: "well I guess not I have no idea"

Elina’s white bolt fizzles out at the end of her fingertips.

Kirarae falls to one knee, even more blood coming out the gash. From this position he lets another volley of arrows fly

[Russeth]: "Concentrate your strengths on the body everyone!"

Kirarae spits a bit of blood to the side as he watches another sink into the creature and another fly off into the woods

The beast comes in again striking Zakren has he tries to help Russ, as another head strikes Russeth again. Two others make their way back in to the doorway as they strike upon Isreal, leaving the remaining two strikes to miss, Kirarae all together.

Isreal lets out a scream and drops to the floor

Russeth withdraws his short sword from the body of the creature, determination in his eyes he cries in elven and twirls the blades again, sending them forward at the beast's body, unable to dodge the heads at all.

Kirarae takes aim at the beast once more

Russeth sends another gush of lizard blood backwards, retracting his blades they are dripping blood, his studded leather chest is also a bit dirty now after the many strikes upon different parts of his body.

Zakren begins his chanting on his prayer has he places his hands upon Russeth’s back. Sending a pale blue light into him.

Hawk swings once more this time connecting with the beast as he cuts into its body.

Russeth cannot take a moment to thank Zakren nor breath as he goes back into melee, dodging whatever he can. Nothing

The beast whining and hissing in pain falls over to its left side and leans against the tree motionless.

Hawk jumps up and down. "Ha I got you hehe." Laughing at his defeat of the beast.

Kirarae stumbles backwards, his bow falling from his hands. Blood flowing from a nice sized wound across his chest.

Elina sighs in relieve as she returns to the group and starts memorizing her spells.

Zakren makes his way across the bridge to the falling Isreal, where he begins to bind his wounds.

Isreal lay motionless on the other side of the bridge

Russeth sighs in relief as he lifts his body up, his face covered with his and the creature's blood. "Well Heh. It was about time you hit." Cleaning his blades against the creature's body. "Why do you think this creature lived there. As a guard or simply its home?"

Zakren stands now that Isreal is awake and makes his way back across the bridge slipping as he goes. "Ok I think we should hide out a bit before going on, hehe I’m out of cures."

Isreal gets to his feet "great god in heaven what the hell was that? Well better get inside the tower."

Russeth nods at Zakren. "Aye let's rest for a few then we go and visit the tower more thoroughly."

[Kirarae]: "Anyone have any cloth I can bind this with?"

[Isreal]: "well better inside the tower we can defend it"

Russeth stares at Isreal confusedly. "Who knows what lies WITHIN the tower?"

Zakren nods and makes his way over to Kirarae to help him with his wounds. Placing his hands down on Kirarae and smears some muck upon his wounds then wraps them up with a cloth. "Here this should help for now.

Russeth nods towards Kirarae as he sees him tended. "Whew. Well that was a large fellow, I hope there's not that many much around here." He looks around, his swords still drawn out before him; he spins and sees nothing. "This thing must have some treasure somewhere." He sheathes the blades and walks over to Elina. "Is it me or hmm. Arcane magic did not work around here?"

Elina continues with her studies, not hearing Russeth as she is in deep concentration.

Kirarae hobbles over using his bow to help him walk "Well that was fun..."

Several hours have past as the sun has reached the high point in the sky as the spell casters have finished with their works.

Isreal rested inside the doorway where he was knocked out

Zakren stands and comes out of the bushes once more. "Ok who needs healing still?" Looking around towards the others and any signs of wounds.

Elina closes her book with a satisfy smile. Looking at Russeth as she replaces her book into her pack, she approaches him and starts to bandage his wounds carefully and gently.

[Isreal]: "I could use a little but I may be better off than the others"

Hawk snickers, "Blah I have only a mere scratch from its teeth nothing of concern at this time."

Russeth raises his hand at Zakren, seeming to need it this time.

[Kirarae]: "I as well could use some attention"

Zakren makes his way over to Russeth once again, before looking over to Kirarae. "Then form a line starting here."

[Russeth]: "However it is of no emergency. Tend to Kirarae now. I can wait, we should enter now."

Elina nods at Isreal as she finishes with Russeth's wounds and approaches Isreal. Carefully, she tries to bandage him.

Zakren goes into a long stint of chanting as he tends the wounds of Russeth and Kirarae then one on him self.

[Elina]: "Well does anyone still have any minor wounds which needs my attention?" Looking at her comrades as she speaks.

Russeth slides across the bridge once Zakren is done with a smile, feeling much better now, there are stains of blood on his body but no apparent wounds. "Have you found a way to enter this place?"

Isreal takes his book out while looking at the others

Kirarae stretches a bit "I'm gonna be sore tomorrow"

[Isreal]: "well I can get in the trouble is getting all of you in"

Zakren nods "Well out of cures so what do we do now?"

Russeth nods at Isreal. "I will make sure everyone crosses safely."

Isreal looks at the entryway in search of traps or other devices.

Russeth nods back at Zakren, "At least we will try to get in, maybe we can let you study a bit more before going in further."

Hawk speaks up "I have a minor wound lass."

Elina nods at Hawk and starts bandaging him up as best as she can.

Once across the bridge you come to the entryway of the tree. Four medium size torches mounted into the sides of the entryway, giving off light allowing you to see two large oak doors with large iron lion knockers in the center of each door. Below them set in the door on the right is a large iron handle and key lock below it.

[Isreal]: "well shall we knock?" laughing at Russeth

Russeth glances at the torches and grabs one of them. "I wonder how long these things have been lit." He does not laugh back as he looks at Isreal seriously. "How about you try to pick the lock first?"

[Isreal]: "what that would be a crime you said I could not commit a crime in front of you"

Elina examines the torches as she tries to see what fuels the fire.

Russeth really feels like hitting Isreal with his fist on the head, "Stealing from the innocent is a crime. Opening the lock of a tower whose guard has attacked us. I think that's different, don't ye?"

[Isreal]: "well leader we where not asked here nor have we the right to just barge in is it ok if I pick the lock? Ah yes but we did not have to come here"

[Russeth]: "We were not asked in the bandit's lair. Was it a crime to get in?"

[Elina]: "These torches... they produce no warmth... Must be magic." Pointing at the torch she examines as she looks at the rest.

Isreal moves toward the door." Tries to take 2 of the torches "magic well they should bring some price"

Trying to remove the torches is of no use for they seem attached into the walls.

Isreal goes up to the door and looks at the lock and then tries to open the door

Elina shakes her head. "It will not comes off easy. Anyone would have stolen it if you can just pull it out."

Russeth shrugs as he lets the torch there and brings his attention to Isreal.

Isreal just pulls the door open I don’t like the looks of this its not locked" looks about the inside of the door with great care

Russeth grins slightly as he takes a step forward and watches inside, "Heh a single person came out of there and he was unarmed. Why should we worry inside?"

[Elina]: "Beware of traps Isreal." Cautioning him as she moves closer to Russeth.

You can hear some talking or singing from within as Isreal looks inside. As he quickly closes the door and runs to the back of the line.

Isreal comes running out well there is this 14' tall stone giant in there ready to eat us

[Elina]: "Here use my staff and test the floor." Passing her quarterstaff to him as she holds on to Russeth's arm.

Russeth glares at Isreal as he runs by, "What are you doing?"

[Isreal]: "I hate this place"

[Kirarae]: "So what’s the call?"

[Isreal]: "well no traps on the inside just that stone giant with that bloody big club"

Russeth opens the door after Isreal has left, the vein on his forehead growing he looks inside.

[Elina]: "Ah... Giants... Is it coming out? I think I need to memorize some other spells then." Saying as Isreal runs pass taking no heed to her quarterstaff.

[Isreal]: "it wants a pass word, was there any words written on the map or any of the papers?"

Russeth closes back the door, confusedly. "Hmm. ya. A password."

[Elina]: "Where's the map? May I have a look?"

The singing once again stops when the door is shut. The woods are all but quiet about you except for the calls of the local wild birds in the area.

Isreal yells out " rumple stillskin rumple stillskin rumple stillskin"

Russeth withdraws the map from the sack he was given.... And looks down upon it.

[Isreal]: "this is great how did that guy get in here?"

Russeth shrugs, "No idea it has probably been here for a while."

Hawk looks over the bridge, "Maybe there is a way in under the water, or maybe the guy from last night had the password. Hmm wonder what does lie in the murky waters below."

[Elina]: "Let me see darling." Saying as she reaches out her hand.

[Isreal]: "right that beast might have gotten some treasure down there"

Russeth tosses it to Elina as he looks down the bridge, he notices Hawk might be right and approximates the depth below. "Maybe we could lower someone with a rope and see about it. However that might just as well be suicide."

Elina grabs hold of the map and peers intently into it.

Hawk nods at the words of the others as he looks about the moat. "Well one good sign is there are no more bubbles or at least on this side."

[Isreal]: "well do you want to try it hawk? Tie on we will pull you up at any sign of trouble"

Hawk looks back, "Heh I don't know about all that now, who knows what else is around this place, it seems the mage doesn't like visitors."

[Isreal]: "yeah but he is said to be dead"

Elina sighs as she returns the map to Russeth. Turning, she starts examining each of the torch holders individually.

[Isreal]: "well how to get in? I could climb to the top and toss a rope down? We start at the top an work our way down?"

Russeth shrugs as he looks inside. "Now this is an awkward situation. Perhaps we can run fast enough across the room?" Grinning he imagines himself running successfully from the giant. "I really don't like to see that giant. My father told me about these and I don't like the fact I am stopped by one." He draws his blades and takes a footstep towards the door. "You can try that Isreal." He sighs and sheathes his blades again, turning around.

Elina shakes her head. "If we are going to face the giant. Best we get prepared for it." Saying as she sits down near the wall and memorize her spell book.

Isreal looks up to determine how high it is

Zakren nods " Yeah sounds about right lass." As he makes his way off to pray for the return of his spells.

Russeth sighs, crossing his arms as he glares down in the water. "You think we could actually see anything if we dive down there?"

[Isreal]: "well that’s a high climb I may need a little spell help give me a min to look over my books"

Hawk looks at Russeth. "Well couldn't see much in the last lake but that’s why we have hands now isn't it?"

[Isreal]: "an I will need more rope that’s got to be about 100 feet or more"

Russeth smiles at Hawk and dangles his head feeling unsure. "Ya but hands can't see a six-headed dragon-like creature swim in my direction."

[Hawk]: "No but when they are the first to go you know its time to get out. Hehe" Laughs at his words.

Russeth points to one of the large poles "But it's always worth the try. Let’s give it a shot. I will tie a rope there and I'll swim down."

[Kirarae]: "This is accomplishing a lot"

While you stand about outside this persons home you see the sun getting later and later into the sky, as the spell casters finish with their works.

[Isreal]: "well I will watch over the rope an pull you up if you get in trouble, well Russeth up or down you make the decision"

Elina she stares at the creature knowing full well there is nothing she can do now. She starts singing a song of valor, as she tries to encourage her companions, hoping that they will strike the creature down.

[Kirarae]: "Anyone think to try the name of the man who send you on this mission"

Russeth nods at Isreal as he leaves his weapons and equipment down except for his knife. "It will be down. Safer, I would guess." Quickly into the water he tries to make it to the bottom for a first try, knowing when it gets too deep.