DM
You sleep and rest while others examine things and guard the sleepers. Soon everyone is awake and walking around. The priest prey to their Gods for the miracles that will heal and protect the party in the days to come. Carynth speaking to mother Nature, Grumach sitting lotus style meditating, Ulath and Saggar preying in dwarfish to their god or gods.
Soon everyone is ready and has eaten. The party prepares to move. Glancing around it is hard not to notice how many have died or are lost. And the new member Saggar seems eager to face the next danger.

SAGGAR
Saggar prepares his equipment and dons his armour and weapons. "Who is leader of this band? Do we search the doors long hidden first or enter the portal in search of Alof?"

CARYNTH
Carynth shrugs philosophically. "Actually, Biladoc makes a great deal of the decisions, but so far things have been pretty straightforward." She checks her scimitar, then replaces it in her sheath. "I'm for going through the portal. Alof's been alone a long time."

ULATH
After praying to his God, Ulath says: "I'm ready to leave! Came Flint!" And suggests:
Let's do the same organisation as in the temple. Scout ahead, two warriors behind him. Then, as my friend Carynth seems to have a fighter personality, she should be next with another of us, as backup to the fighters. Last Grumach (I think his ethos does not allow him to initiate combat!?) and the last of us! So cousin, you stay with Carynth or with Grumach?

HUMPHREY
Humphrey looks to the rest, "Sorry for being addled. I should had followed Alof, to let him know the rest of us were coming. Let's head through the portal." Humphrey then walks through the portal.
OOC:
Once Humphrey is through the portal he will see if he can get back through. What does he see on the other side of the portal?

DM
Biladoc grins and leaps through the portal behind Humphrey. There is a shimmering blue mist for a few seconds and then they are both gone.

GRUMACH
Also walks through the portal.

KINSON
As to Saggar`s wondering about a party leader: Kinson says: "To my knowledge, we have never formally decided on one. In fact we were attacked while discussing it in the Inn -- by the beasts that teleported into my and Humphrey`s room."
To Grumach`s inquiring of what the party members are, he responds: "I am a Paladin, dedicated to finding the Truth, and destroying evil. I will gladly take up a position in the fore of the party, to defend my friends." (The actual position 1st rank or 2nd rank doesn't matter, the order you suggest is fine.)
Since, Humphrey, Grumach, and Biladoc have already gone, it doesn't seem worth it to try and detect evil on the portal, so Kinson walks through also.

CARYNTH
Hi ho! Carynth follows.

ULATH
"It seems that everybody is going through a Portal, so let's go! Come Flint, don't bark!"

KINSON
I think everyone has gone through the portal. Has anyone not responded yet?

DM
As the other members enter the portal they feel disorientation at first and then find themselves in a hall made of fitted stone that is ten feet wide. A little to the west stand Biladoc and Humphrey. Humphrey has lit a torch and stands with it far over head. Finally Ulath and Flint enter the tunnel through the portal. Flint lets out a low growl but is quiet. He wags his tail as he looks up at Ulath. This hallway extends west and east. West it goes thirty feet where a hall branches off to the south. It continues on west from that point. To the East it extends fifty feet where a hall branches off to the north. The east hallway continues on as well.
Here at this location can be seen several scrape marks on the stone floor. They form no design or pattern. There is also a brown stain on the floor at this point and a small bit of cheese as well as some bread crumbs.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey has suggested that we go a little each way to see if we can determine which way Alof went. If we can't then perhaps the dog can scent him out.

DM
Are you going to break up to go each way, or all go the same way?

KINSON
Maybe we should just try letting the dog scent him out immediately.

DM
It seems that you all agree to go a short ways down each hall and look and if that does not turn up any signs to let Flint attempt to track Alof's scent.... Now who will go which way and look in which direction.

CARYNTH
Let's go left first, for 20 or 30 feet or so, what say?

GRUMACH
I agree with letting the dog try to scent him out. Also, if we're feeling particularly reckless, we could wander aimlessly screaming "Alof!"

DM
Biladoc nods and moves forward to the west down the hallway. He moves thirty feet down the hall where another hall splits off to the south. Looking south he sees that it goes twenty feet south where another hall splits off east and then continues twenty more feet where it ends in a door. Looking west it seems to go sixty more feet into the darkness and continues on. He looks back at Humphrey point both ways shrugging his shoulders.

KINSON
Kinson follows along behind Humphrey and Biladoc (OOC: I believe we worked out a marching order, and presume we're following it). Then he whispers to Humphrey, for no reason other than the situation seems to call for a whisper, "Only so much can be learned from hallways, I suggest the door."

GRUMACH
"I would also suggest the door. It seems the best option at the moment."

SAGGAR
"Me thinks we should look to the south before going on down the other hall" Saggar whispers as he prepares his axes for battle.

CARYNTH
Carynth nods in agreement, a worried look on her face. "It's going to be very difficult to find Alof with all of these tunnels. I have an augury spell we could take time to consult. However, it will only give a vague impression of the next half-hour. Shall we take time now to do it?"

KINSON
"Will your spell help us to find Alof sooner than deliberate searching? I wouldn't use it unless it does, and even then I might suggest waiting until we stop to rest. However, I do agree that we should move south into the chamber."
"I believe we've gotten all the help we can get from the dog for now. Three of us have stated we are going to explore the chamber to the south, is everyone coming?"
Kinson will move south as soon as everyone has their say.

GRUMACH
'Sounds good to me'

DM
I can have the dog track the dragon if you want. But, I just wanted to warn players that he is not on Alof's trail. I did not want to mislead. I can have the dog follow the dragon's spoor if you want.

KINSON
"We were nearly decimated by a few humans in the last encounter -- I don't think tracking down a dragon would be wise. Humphrey, this place is like a maze, perhaps we should establish a systematic search pattern -- something simple like always turning right when a turn is possible."

GRUMACH
Looks like, to me, our more obvious choices are:
Use sniffers to track Alof, such as Flint of Grumach. Obvious disadvantage of leading more likely to Something Bad.
Do a systematic search of the place, mapping it out as we go, marking our progress on the walls, and perhaps leaving notes periodically for Alof to meet us at X. Obvious disadvantages being that we might get lost, stumble onto Something Bad, go in circles. If we leave markings on the walls, or directions to Alof, we might lead Something Bad to us. Explore magical searches (Charles: does Liscivious grant Grumach divination spells, such as Augury?). Obvious disadvantages being the amount of time consumed. Scream out Alof's name, and hope he appears. Disads being that we might get Something Bad arriving in lieu of Alof. Wait patiently by the portal hoping Alof will return. Disad being that Alof might not return, something else may use the portal regularly (such as cultists). Split up, and try several methods; while arguably faster, this splits us up into smaller more vulnerable groups. Anyone want to add to this?

CARYNTH
Carynth definitely doesn't want to split up, so let's go that southern route, and wander =) No, really. Does someone want to be in charge of mapping. Carynth is poor with pen and paper, so it most likely won't be her. Otherwise, she's amenable.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey sighs, "I would like a chance at taking on that dragon, but I would like to find Alof first. I say we try the Augury spell if someone has it memorised and if that fails, do I right hand search, with someone mapping our way."

KINSON
"Nothing to add. You've stated a fine assessment of the problem. I`ll throw my lot in with Carynth and Humphrey and suggest we use the magic first -- the augury spell; then failing that we can start a systematic search."

KINSON
"Nothing to add. You've stated a fine assessment of the problem. I`ll throw my lot in with Carynth and Humphrey and suggest we use the magic first -- the augury spell; then failing that we can start a systematic search."

GRUMACH
Okay, good. Grumach will memorise as many Augury spells as possible, next chance he gets. This probably entails meditating for four hours, and just memorising over his old second level spells...
Anyone want to compile a list of yes/no questions for the auguries? Grumach will have 2 spells (six questions). Anyone else wants to memorise Augury spells (or similar)? Carynth, don't druids have access to it?

CARYNTH
You must have missed the message where I offered to cast it two days ago. =) I have it, and we should compile a list of questions, such as, if we continue south, will we find Alof this day, and hit and miss with directions from there. What say all?

DM
So are you all going to stop and learn Augury spells to cast? If so where are you going to stop ...Right here in the hallway?

SAGGAR
"We should not stop. Let us continue south." Saggar speaks as he looks around

GRUMACH
"Saggar suggested moving south. Perhaps we should trek on until we find a more defensible place, and then begin the questioning process."

KINSON
"I agree with Saggar and Grumach that we should find a more defensible position before attempting any spell casting. Perhaps we should have done it near the portal -- although that wasn't a very defendable location. Moving south would seem to be a good idea."

CARYNTH
Then I believe we're all in agreement to move south! Carynth takes her normal position toward the front, and heads with the rest of the party.

DM
The group moves south with Saggar the dwarf leading the way. He and the others are looking West to see what is in the chamber beyond. The stone chamber is only twenty feet deep (not including the hallway). On the South wall all the way West is a Stairwell going up. As you watch: A deep rumbling roar begins, somewhere overhead. The walls and ceiling shake, and dust falls in clouds from above. Flint begins to sneeze uncontrollably and Grumach does not like it at all. Stones bounce and roll down the stairs, followed by the crashing of larger boulders, and the horrible grating and groaning of shifting stone. With a sudden last surge of tumbling stones, the disturbance ends, dust drifting eerily in the sudden silence. Looking south down the hallway you can see that it goes sixty feet where a hallway splits off to the West. The hallway south continues.

SAGGAR
Saggar looks down the side hall and than continues south

BILADOC
I say to the others:
'Give me a few seconds, guys. Just want to see if there's any way up those stairs.'
I quickly approach the stairs, carefully as not to cause any rock slide, and see if there's any opening leading up or if the stairs are totally blocked. I then return to the front of the party.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey after waiting for the dust to clear. "Well let's see if we can make it up the stairs. I am afraid though that it is sealed off."
Humphrey will check out the room. Taking care to look at the ceiling and walls.

DM
Humphrey looking at the stairs notes that the stairwell is indeed sealed by the large stones. He also notes Biladoc standing under his legs looking at the stairwell as well.
Biladoc moves forwards and examines the way up. Ulath mutters, 'Be careful little one."
You examine the stairs. It looks completely blocked

BILADOC
I take a look at the walls, trying to spot any hidden / secret doors. If I don't find any, I'll say to the party:
'I'm getting tired of going down this hall. It seems to go on forever. I think I'll take a peek at that passage next to the door. It's just a feeling, but I think it may lead somewhere more interesting than these halls. After all, those are the only passages leading west. Saggar and Ulath, don't you want to take a look in those passages to the east? Not to far, 20 or 30 feet, just to see if they come to an end and then return to join the others.'

SAGGAR
Saggar nods and goes to look where the eastern passage goes

KINSON
"Since you have preference of where you would like to go, I suggest we all go with you. In this maze, one way seems as good as another, and I think we are safer not breaking the party up."

DM
Saggar walks down the East hall thirty feet and looks further down it. I assume with lantern to see 60 feet. The hall goes thirty more feet and ends in a T intersection.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey speaks "Let's do the Augury and see if it can help." Any suggestions for our cleric as to what type of questions we should ask."

DM
The hallway to the East goes sixty feet and ends in a T intersection with a hall going north and south. Looking north you can see it goes fifty feet and ends in another T intersection. Looking south you can see it goes sixty feet and turns East. Everything is quiet except from the clank of your armour and weapons and your breathing.

SAGGAR
"I do not like this silence" searches wall before him in T-intersection for secret doors

HUMPHREY
We might also want to mark each intersection that we come too. I would suggest that we use arrows with the rear of the arrow pointing to the way we decided to go.

GRUMACH
Here are some suggested questions
"Is Alof alive?"
"Is Alof down the south corridor?"
"Is Alof down the north corridor?"
(if both directionals are "no", then we can assume Alof is behind us somewhere, or has left the labyrinth)
Once we get these three questions down, we start moving. At every branch we cast Augury again to determine which direction we should go. This is one way to go about it.
Another is:
"Is Alof farther north than we are?"
"Is Alof farther west than we are?"
this way we split up the map, and know which quadrant he's in (relative to us). This may be more efficient. Other good ones:
"If I yell 'Alof' will creatures hostile to us attack us?"
"If I yell 'Alof' will it cause us to be attacked?"
"If I yell 'Alof' will he hear us"

BILADOC
I also agree with Humphrey, the arrows are a good idea. About the questions, I prefer the 2nd group (is he north, is he west). Another thing I'd also like to know: are Gathrax, Kaddar and Serian still alive and well? (Don't tell me you forgot about them... ;-) ). And are we still under Pensula or have we travelled further than we imagine? (I don't know if Saggar can answer this last one...).

CARYNTH
I like all of the questions, including the following ones. However, we can't cast it at every intersection - at least, I can't, cuz I can only learn it once a day - or rather, I only have one memorised.
And I like Humphrey's suggestion of marking the corridor with arrows. It seems to me to be the only option that makes sense as far as our keeping track of where we've been. So if all are in agreement, Carynth will cast the augury! =)

HUMPHREY
"Go ahead and Cast it. We will guard you."

KINSON
"I think I brought up this subject once before a long time ago when we were talking in the Green Dragon Inn. But I still believe we are being hampered by not having a party leader. Take this intersection for instance, if we weren't casting an augury spell to determine which way to go, it probably wouldn't matter if we went north or south. A party leader could just pick one and we would be on our merry way -- without one we stand here talking for quite a long time about what to do next.

DM
While everyone discusses the casting of Carynth's spell Saggar searches the ten foot section of the hall directly to the east. After ten minutes you all are still talking and Saggar's search has been fruitless.

CARYNTH
Carynth shrugs before casting her spell. "I don't see why it's so important yet, but of course I'll go with what the party decides. I think we're doing stunningly!" =) She casts her augury spell, asking the second set of questions first, but if she has time, she wants to ask all of them we've come up with so far. Do you need the complete list, Charles?

GRUMACH
"Then I nominate Humphrey, he is decisive. Either that, or Carynth or Kinson, they are also decisive, and reliable."

KINSON
"I second the nomination of Humphrey. If he is interested?" He looks at Humphrey,"Humphrey are you interested?"

SAGGAR
"I am afraid I do not know where we are"" Searches the wall heading north along the wall

HUMPHREY
Kinson doesn't know how to respond to Saggar`s comment, so he smiles at the dwarf. "OK, I'll be the leader. Kinson will be second in command.
Now let's get do the Augury.
About the questions
Is Alof alive? (good question, I think)
Is Alof in the labyrinth?
Is Alof further north than we are?
Is Alof further south than we are? (Do East instead of south, since if North is no, South is Yes).
Once we have Alof in a quadrant then (should he be in the SE Quad) is Alof more S than E from us?
If I yell "Alof", will he hear me?
If I yell "Alof", will that cause us to be attacked?
Is Alof more than one hundred yards from where we entered the labyrinth?
Is Alof down the south corridor? (Unless Alof is directly down the corridor the answer will be no.
Is Alof down the north corridor?
Has Alof left the labyrinth by the way we came in? I would think that this would be no.
How many questions do we get?

DM
Saggar moves north a little and continues his search as Carynth casts her enchantment. She weaves the magic carefully calling upon the powers that be for aid in the ritual she works on.
Meanwhile Saggar discovers something interesting in the East wall just north of the intersection. There seems to be a door there of some sort. He continues looking for a latch of some sort.

CARYNTH
Carynth looks questioningly at Humphrey, then sits down to compose her questions. "I've no interest at all in being leader, though of course it was nice to be thought of," she shrugs, then gets to work.

BILADOC
I go help Saggar searching for a way of opening the door and for any traps that door might have. I say to him:
'Even if we find a way to open this, I think we should wait until Carynth finishes her spell.'
I turn to Kinson and shake my head:
'You humans are so helpless. Why do you need someone to tell you what to do? Can't you decide on your own? Fine, if it makes you feel more secure, pick a leader. I'll agree with your choice.'
I then say to Carynth, smiling:
'We can always do what we want, if he gives a silly order.'
OOC:
Can't help it, folks. This little fellow is a little (a lot?!) Chaotic, you know? ;-)

KINSON
Kinson: "I understand and, in fact, I agree with you. The first step toward wisdom is to question."
OOC: He is a Holy Knight ;-)

DM
Saggar and Biladoc search for a catch. Soon Biladoc finds a small wire that looks strange at the base of the door. Meanwhile Saggar finds a stone that pushes in.

CARYNTH
Still chuckling, Carynth attempts to compose herself. "Okay, folks. I only came up with eight questions, but actually I didn't come up with them, did I? Here they are:
Is Alof alive? (good question, I think)
Is Alof further north than we are?
Is Alof further south than we are?
If I yell "Alof", will he hear me?
If I yell "Alof", will that cause us to be attacked?
Is Alof down the south corridor?
Is Alof down the north corridor?
Has Alof left the labyrinth?
Has Alof left the labyrinth by the way we came in?
Okay. I thought of a new one, so that's nine. "Anyway," Carynth concludes, "Some of these questions depend on the previous answers of course, but I'm going to hurry and cast the augury before I have to listen to a team leader," she grins a little maliciously, but winks at Humphrey.

SAGGAR
"I think there is a door here." Continues searching for a way to open the door.

BILADOC
I say to Saggar:
'Lets wait for the answers, then remove this trap and open the door.'
I study the wire, carefully, not touching it, just trying to see where it connects and what it might trigger.

SAGGAR
Watches the workings of the wire and waits "I have a stone to open the door I think right here. What is that wire?" The dwarf mumbles as he tugs on his beard pensatively

KINSON
"If the wire is a trip wire, it stands to reason that opening the door triggers it. Perhaps causing it to trigger before the door is open might be wise -- unless you think you can disarm it? Since you are a halfling, I could take off the chest plate of my armour and you could use it to shield yourself."

DM
Is the exit that Alof took to the north?
NO
Did the exit that Alof took from the labyrinth leave him just outside the labyrinth? (Trying to see if he used a portal or gate)
NO

DM
Carynth waits in deep meditation for someone to give her more questions to ask before her spell expires. Meanwhile Biladoc is examining the wire he found sticking out from under the secret door. (You can't make anything out of it Biladoc). Saggar inquires with Biladoc as he looks at the strange wire the halfling has found. Kinson is just standing there erect looking back and forth down the hallways. Humphrey seems pensive as Ulath scratches Flint's ear. The dog cocks his head to allow his master better access to his ears. Meanwhile Grumach seems uneasy as he glances around and everything. A far away scream makes Grumach almost shoot through the ceiling. The scream echoed and its origin is impossible to tell even to Flint and Grumach.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey keeping watch hears the scream. "I couldn't tell where that scream came from could any of you. Let's finish the spell and be on.

BILADOC
OOC:
I haven't received any message regarding the answers to the initial questions. Seems that Alof is out of this maze, right? I also believe I couldn't disarm that wire or understand what it may trigger. If that's the case...
BIC:
After the scream, I say:
'If we still have any questions, what about asking if this scream came from someone we know, and where did it came from? (more to the north than to the south, more to west than to east). And maybe ask if it's safe to open this door or if there's any potential danger inside?'
I say to the party, looking at the wire:
'I can't figure this out. I say we attach a rope to this wire and pull it from a safe distance. It's obviously meant for someone opening the door or in the vicinity of the door. I think we should be safe if we trigger it from 20 or 30 ft away. (Only if I can't disarm it, Charles.)
If nobody says anything against, I'll do so.

DM
YES, he is out of the maze! He is not just outside the maze. And he is alive. As you are unable to disarm it you back up and prepare to tie a rope to the wire.

HUMPHREY
"Let's finish the spell. then disarm the trap.

BILADOC
I turn to Humphrey:
'Do you think Alof might have something to do with that rockslide back in that room? Maybe he went out that way. Do you think we should ask that and if there's any chance of clearing the stairs? About the scream, maybe it's a good idea to ask what distance it came from.'

DM
Here are the?'s Carynth asks (I believe I still have 7):
Is it safe to open this door?
Yes and NO
Is there potential danger inside?
YES
Did Alof's exit cause the cave-in?
NO
Is the exit Alof used still accessible?
YES
Did Alof leave the way he came in? (this one may have been answered already,
NO
Did the exit Alof took from the Labyrinth leave him just outside the Labyrinth?
NO
Did Alof's exit trigger the cave-in?
NO

KINSON
After the Augury spell is completed Kinson will suggest that everyone except Biladoc moves around the corner, for safety, as Biladoc prepares the rope to pull the string trigger on the door. He will also move around the corner for safety.
Kinson says: "I believe Carynth has already asked her final question, so it's probably too late, but we might have used them to determine where the scream came from -- perhaps someone is in need of help. It sounds like Alof has already left this maze, I suggest for the time being that we stop pursuing him, and continue our quest here."

DM
Seeing no objections Biladoc pulls on the wire using his rope. One sharp tug and the small wire comes free from under the door. Nothing else happens. Examining the wire shows it to be about 2 inches long and quite sturdy. If Biladoc did not know better he would say it was a homemade lock pick.

SAGGAR
Saggar unlatches the door and pushes it open, axe ready

KINSON
Kinson says: "I believe Carynth has already asked her final question, so it's probably too late, but we might have used them to determine where the scream came from -- perhaps someone is in need of help. It sounds like Alof has already left this maze, I suggest for the time being that we stop pursuing him, and continue our quest here."

CARYNTH
Carynth murmurs to Kinson, so as not to disturb Saggar, "Aye, I see your point, but I'd rather find Alof myself. I'd not be wantin' him to feel deserted."

BILADOC
Seeing Saggar opening the door, I grab my dagger and mace and step to the side of the door, getting away from the entrance.

DM
Saggar opens the secret door by pushing on a stone. Biladoc readies mace and blade in case of trouble. The secret door opens to a wide hall. Twenty feet wide. It turns into stairs leading up. The length of steps and hall is thirty feet. You can tell that as it reaches the top of the steps some five feet higher it opens into a room. A horrid smell washes over the band from the opening. The smell is somewhat like that of decay. The scurrying of a rat can be heard from beyond the portal but little else can be seen or heard.

BILADOC
I turn to Humphrey and say:
'Since you were so eager to be the leader of this party, why don't you lead the way?'
I wait for him to move in and then follow the others into the room, looking for some way to keep this door open (just in case we need to use it again in a hurry. I don't suppose I can find a way to open it from inside the room?...).

SAGGAR
Saggar advances maces at the ready up the stairs

GRUMACH
Grumach will follow. Can he identify more specifically what caused the odour (dead things, Troglodytes, ghouls, etc)? He will ready his chain for action.

DM
Saggar and Grumach advance through the door. Saggar enters first with Grumach close behind. Who follows behind them????

HUMPHREY
Humphrey heads up with both swords at the ready.

CARYNTH
Carynth whispers, "Hey, Humphrey? Check the floor for any fresh footprints, aye? Maybe Alof came this way." She'll follow after the immediate press of bodies up the stairs.

KINSON
Kinson draws his sword and follows the party. He will take up a rear guard. He also takes a close look at the ceiling of the room we are entering, looking for falling traps and or creatures that fall or fly.

DM
Ceiling is twenty feet high but he sees nothing but a few webs Saggar leads the way up the steps with Grumach close behind. Behind the two of them come Humphrey and Kinson the Knight. Carynth comes next followed by Ulath, Flint and Biladoc.
As Saggar reaches the top he sees that the room is twenty feet deep and extends thirty feet more to the south. Making it a twenty by fifty foot room. There are two exits in the East wall of this chamber. One all the way north exits east going only ten feet before turning north. The other is ten feet from the south side of the east wall and is steps that lead up.
The room itself is littered with rubble and bones. Not many bones just a few scattered around. Suddenly as he reaches the top four greyish skinned humans with wild looking hair leap towards Saggar and Grumach at the top of the stairs. They let out blood curdling howls as they do so. The humans have long nails and a foul stench of Carrion precedes them making members of the party stomachs churn. Grumach, Biladoc, and Carynth begin to regurgitate there former meals adding to the confusion(Note they can act but with modifiers).
Saggar acts quickly to the assault bringing up his axe in a deadly arc that cleaves the first opponent in half, sending it backwards to fall lifeless on the ground. Grumach attempts to strike those that attack him but is unable to due to his lack of current composition. A clawed hand rips Saggar across the left cheek causing blood to flow freely into the dwarf's beard. (-3hp). Saggar feels a strange stiffening but shakes it off. The two creatures on Grumach manage to bite him on the neck causing a spurt of blood(-6hp) and the other claws him on the left leg (-1hp). Grumach also feels the stiffening of his limbs however he is not able to fight off its effects, Grumach crumbles paralysed at the top of the steps. The others have a chance to react to the sudden attack.
ACTIONS PLEASE!

HUMPHREY
Humphrey presses into the room with both swords swinging. If given the chance he will move to the side in his attacks so that others may attack.

BILADOC
Since I'm in the back of the party, I'll leave the rescuing to the knights and move to the north entrance, ready to mace (the weapon, not the gas) any grey dudes that may appear from there. I'll keep an eye on the others, ready to tumble away from any attack.

KINSON
Kinson will attack the grey men with his sword, doing the same as Humphrey and trying to move to the side to allow the other entrance to the room.

DM
Saggar leads the way up the steps with Grumach close behind. Behind the two of them come Humphrey and Kinson the Knight. Carynth comes next followed by Ulath, Flint and Biladoc.
As Saggar reaches the top he sees that the room is twenty feet deep and extends thirty feet more to the south. Making it a twenty by fifty foot room. There are two exits in the East wall of this chamber. One all the way north exits east going only ten feet before turning north. The other is ten feet from the south side of the east wall and is steps that lead up. The room itself is littered with rubble and bones. Not many bones just a few scattered around. Suddenly as he reaches the top four greyish skinned humans with wild looking hair leap towards Saggar and Grumach at the top of the stairs. They let out blood curdling howls as they do so. The humans have long nails and a foul stench of Carrion precedes them making members of the party stomachs churn. Grumach, Biladoc, and Carynth begin to regurgitate there former meals adding to the confusion(Note they can act but with modifiers).
Saggar acts quickly to the assault bringing up his axe in a deadly arc that cleaves the first opponent in half, sending it backwards to fall lifeless on the ground. Grumach attempts to strike those that attack him but is unable to due to his lack of current composition. A clawed hand rips Saggar across the left cheek causing blood to flow freely into the dwarf's beard. (-3hp). Saggar feels a strange stiffening but shakes it off. The two creatures on Grumach manage to bite him on the neck causing a spurt of blood(-6hp) and the other claws him on the left leg (-1hp). Grumach also feels the stiffening of his limbs however he is not able to fight off its effects, Grumach crumbles paralysed at the top of the steps. The others have a chance to react to the sudden attack.

CARYNTH
Carynth attacks with her scimitar, attempting to shake off the debilitating effects of her nausea.

ULATH
Ulath will say: By the power of Zephyr, BACK you rotten creatures, BACK to your rotten Lair!

DM
Saggar rips out a battle cry swinging his axe in a double arc at the ghouls. The one ghoul before him moves quickly and avoids the first axe blow. The second swing however catches it across the chest leaving a gaping wound . However, the beast continues to fight. Carynth rushes forward as Kinsell and Humphrey moves to the attack. She swings her Scimitar at one of the two beasts on Grumach but misses. Humphrey moves forward swinging his swords as he moves to the side to allow others to pass. One of his swords connects on one of the ghouls to the right. He leaves a wound on the creature but it leaps for him. Kinson the knight moves forward and to the left. He swings at the beast fighting Saggar but misses the creature as it attacks Saggar again. Biladoc moves through the center to the north exit from the room directly ahead. He is on guard for any more enemies coming in from that direction. The ghouls seem to ignore him because of his size and having more than enough opponents to keep them busy. Ulath will say: "By the power of Zephyr, BACK you rotten creatures, BACK to your rotten Lair!" He holds his holy symbol high and forcefully in front of him. The two ghouls that where on Grumach scream and howl as they back away. The one on Saggar seems unphased. The Beast on Saggar seems concerned as his aid backs off. However, he manages to claw Saggar twice( -1hp, -3hp). Saggar's dwarven constitution does not help him this time and he falls to the ground paralysed.
ACTIONS: Two retreating ghouls and one that just won't quit. :-)

BILADOC
Since no more ghouls appear, I'll charge the closest of the retreating ones, taking advantage of the fact their scared and are not paying much attention to me. If I can backstab him, I'll do so. If not, I'll strike with my mace first and then with my dagger.

SAGGAR
'Thunk'

HUMPHREY
Humphrey will attack with both swords at the one which just downed Saggar.

ULATH
Ulath will say, while moving to attack the ghast Finish this one, the others are running!
He will then attack the ghast, while trying to avoid the perfume!

CARYNTH
Carynth follows his advice and attacks the last one that isn't running.>

DM
Saggar thunk's to the floor loudly. Biladoc attempts to attack the retreating ghouls. Just as they turn and run straight for the exit he is standing in front of. Biladoc looks shocked but manages to act swinging his mace and dagger. His mace lands squarely on ones head and it drops to the ground. Humphrey steps forward swinging his swords. One misses the Ghast as it turns towards him. His second blade however catches it on the neck and its head separates from the rest of its body. Its body collapses to the ground. The head hits the wall and rolls a few times. As it comes to a rest the Ghast hisses and then its eyes glaze over. Ulath moves forward and smacks the already downed ghast. Carynth moves to attack the ghast but as she starts she sees Humphrey's swing. Just then another convulsion rocks her small frame. Everything she just ate comes up and spews onto the floor as she bends over. Kinson just stood there looking around during this round(As I received no message from him). The last ghoul darts past Biladoc and down the hallway. Saggar and Grumach are still not moving at this time.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey goes after the last ghast swinging both swords.

KINSON
Sorry about my inaction last round, it was entirely my fault. Like Humphrey, Kinson will also attack the last undead creature standing.

DM
The last one has ran down the hallway past Biladoc. It is out of sight as there is a turn there. Will you pursue?

BILADOC
Seeing the charge of the two knights, I run after the last ghast. (I'll be able to get to him first, right?). Nevertheless, I'll move close to one of the walls to leave room for them to pass, if they catch up with me.

DM
Short legs and heavy armour. About the same speed. :-)

HUMPHREY
Humphrey will pursue, so that this fowl beast doesn't harm others.

KINSON
Kinson will pursue the undead creature. Quickly, but cautiously.

BILADOC
I'll keep chasing the ghast, ready to stop if he runs into some friends or into a dead end.
If I can still see the ghast, I'll throw a dagger at him, trying to make him slow down. Is he getting away fast or are we gaining up on him? Apart from the expected 'audible glamer' behind me, can I hear anything else? Do I smell something (like a pack of ghouls...)?

DM
The three of you rush into the hall that turns north right away. It goes twenty feet north and turns east again. The "ghast" seems to be in the lead. Biladoc is next with Humphrey and Kinson right behind. It goes twenty feet east and turns north. North it goes forty feet and turns east again. However here there is a flight of steps leading up.

ULATH
Ulath will bind the wounds on Grumach and Saggar!

CARYNTH
Carynth will also see if there is anything to be done for these two. She has a laying on of hands and a heal spell, to be shared out according to whom is more greatly hurt.

DM
Saggar seems the most injured.

CARYNTH
I will heal him, and see if that helps his paralysis. If not, I'll try to move some joints around and limber the boy up!

HUMPHREY
Humphrey running after the Ghast, "Biladoc throw something at it so it will turn and face us."

DM
The ghoul runs faster then Biladoc. The hall goes twenty east and t hen turns south. The ghast just turns the corner as Biladoc throws his dagger. The Dagger Careens off the wall missing the creature. The hallway goes ten feet south and ends in solid wall. However, the ghast is not visible.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey will use his swords to see if any of the walls are illusionary.

DM
Humphrey's swords scrape the walls sending sparks flying. The walls appear to be stone.

BILADOC
I'll recover my dagger and start inspecting the walls, looking for any hidden doors or mechanisms. The ghast disappeared in the last part of the room, right? Did I saw him enter this part of the maze or did I lost sight of him before?

DM
You lost sight of him as he rounded the corner. You pick your dagger back up and begin to look. You quickly discover a secret door on the East wall.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey will open the secret door and go through.

BILADOC
Seeing Humphrey moving in front, I'll take out a couple of daggers and get ready to throw them at any foe that comes in sight. I'll step in the room after the knight(s). Do I spy any trap by the door? Maybe there's too late to look for them... Oh well, poor Humphrey ;-).

KINSON
Kinson follows Humphrey through the secret door -- sword drawn and ready. He says: "If we don't catch this creature soon, we should start thinking about heading back to the rest of our group. They may need our help -- and we don't want to get lost or separated."

BILADOC
I nod to Kinson:
'I agree. Just a couple more minutes. We don't want him to get reinforcements, do we?'
I then move to the south, daggers ready to throw as soon as I spot a target.
OOC:
Can I smell the ghast? Is the smell stronger south or north? I choose to go south because I think the ghast didn't have such an advantage upon us (60 ft. north). Maybe I'm wrong...

DM
No smell gives him away.

KINSON
Your argument has convinced me, south, then around the turn we go. Kinson will allow Biladoc and Humphrey to lead the way. He will take up a rear guard position, looking over his shoulder every 5 seconds, so nothing sneaks up on them.

DM
You go south and look east. The hallway slopes downward for twenty feet or more. But after twenty feet the hallway is covered in water. The hallway extends forty more feet in water before turning north. From end to end where the bends are the hallway is seventy feet the forty eastern part covered in water. You could easily wade through. No sigh of the undead you chase.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey seeing that the chase has ended. "Let's return and tell the others of the stairwell going up. It will help us get out of here."

KINSON
Kinson looks at the watery hallway, then hears Humphrey say the chase has ended. He says: "I agree with Humphrey, we should return to the others. I suppose that the undead don't care if they are wet or not, so the creature could have passed through here. But there are only three of us, and if there is anything lurking beneath the surface of the water, we could become outnumbered very quickly."

BILADOC
OOC:
Looking at the water, does it look like someone just crossed it (muddy, stirred, small waves, splashes on the walls or the floor where we stand) ? The ghast didn't have that much advantage on us. If he passed this way, there should be some signs of it.
Can we see the bottom? How deep is the water? If the water looks still, I'll take a look at the walls for any doors.

DM
The water is black and you can not see the bottom. The waters are still and you see no ecits along the walls of the water.
Humphrey and Kinson start back the way you came. Biladoc stares at the water as they continue to leave.
Will you leave Biladoc behind? Or will Biladoc follow? Will you wait while he looks at the water?

HUMPHREY
"Biladoc what are you looking at?"
Humphrey will wait for Biladoc to respond.

BILADOC
I say to Humphrey, as I look for doors around the walls:
'That guy didn't pass the water. It's to still. Maybe there's another door here.'
If I don't find any, I'll return with them to join the others.

DM
After a few short minutes you find no other secret doors? Do you all return the way you came or go the other direction?

KINSON
Kinson says: "I suggest we start back to the others." and be begins walking back to the secret door (the way he came).

DM
I assume you three go the way you came then???? You begin to head back the way you came when you hear some thundering footsteps headed in your direction.

BILADOC
OOC:
Are the footsteps coming from behind us or in front? Can we tell if there's more than one "thing"?
BIC:
I take out a couple of daggers, ready to throw them. If the noise came from behind, I'll run forward to join the others in the main room.

KINSON
Charles, I need to know how far we got along our path going back before we heard the "thundering foot steps" so I can plan a defensive?
If we are still in the hallway, can we tell from what direction the footsteps are coming?

DM
Just twenty or thirty feet down the hall. As you head back they are coming from in front and sound like several things coming your way. You can also hear the clank of armour.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey on hearing the loud footsteps pulls out both swords and will forward hoping to get to a corner where he can catch a glimpse of the approacher before it sees them.

DM
Suddenly Saggar, Grumach, Carynth, and Ulath see Humphrey, Biladoc, and Kinson coming the other way in the hallway. they have their weapons drawn and seem ready to fight.

GRUMACH
A look of alarm will flash across Grumach's face at the sight of the weapons. "Gah! Not us! Friends! Friends!" As he yells the word friends, he thumps his chest a lot.

SAGGAR
"Greetings all. What see thee down said hall? " the dwarf Saggar queries

BILADOC
I smile at the look of Grumach's face and say to the others: 'Didn't any of you learn to move a little more silent? You sounded like a buffalo stampede.'
I put away my daggers and continue:
'We lost the last ghast. There are a couple more turns and a dead end. I found a secret door that leads into another part of the maze. There were two corridors, one going north and another going east, this last one filled with dark water. We were about to return and join you. Did you found anything back in the larger room?'

CARYNTH
Carynth will wait pensively to see what happens, but in my head, her scimitar was already drawn, so that's the position she's standing in.

GRUMACH
"We didn't think to look. I think we should leave this place as soon as we can, I would feel better to see the open sky again."

SAGGAR
"Nay we were looking for you as we knew not where you had gone" Saggar mumbles lowering his axes

HUMPHREY
Humphrey puts both weapons away and greets the group with a smile. "Well we lost the undead through a secret tunnel and a watery passage. We also found some stairs leading up. Do you all want to go explore the watery area or take the stairs up?"

KINSON
Kinson also sheaths his sword. "We are all together again, and relatively healthy! This is good. I vote for across the water. We can use a rope to help us across the water -- only one person enters the water at a time, with a rope tied securely around them, the rest of the group hold on to the other end of the rope, ready to pull the person back to safety in case of trouble. We cross one at a time."

GRUMACH
Grumach sniffs the air. "I would suggest up." Grumach starts to figit. "I would very much prefer the stairs."

CARYNTH
Carynth fidgits uneasily and says, "I second Grumach, although that rope thing is a good idea. Those things were really nauseating."

BILADOC
I move next to Grumach and Carynth and say:
'I third Grumach, too. And that rope idea is *not* a good idea. I can just see what comes next: "We should choose someone light, easy to pull back in case of danger, hum... let us see, oh I know, what about you, Biladoc?". No thanks.' ;-).

KINSON
Kinson tilts his head up and laughs deeply, "Well said Biladoc! It doesn't really matter to me, so going up the stairs is fine with me as well. I believe we choose Humphrey as our leader, so I will follow his decision."
He smiles and there is a mirthful glint in his eyes, as he looks to Humphrey for his decision.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey's smile is a little less big, "I was hoping to go check out what was across the water, but will lead the group to the stairs and up.

DM
The group heads back to the L shaped room where the ghasts came from. the place is littered with rubble and trace. There the stairs are leading upwards. party order, Light source, any other actions?

GRUMACH
OOC: Hum. I've forgotten whose who anymore... Kinson, Humphrey, Ulath; these are the fighter types? I know that Carynth, Saggar and Grumach are cleric types, and Biladoc is a thief. Was Kinson a fighter/mage, or was that Serian? Anywise, I've never been good at marching order decisions, so I'll pass the buck on to someone else. All I can say is that Grumach will offer to be a torchbearer.

DM
Kinson is a Paladin. Serian was a fighter mage or is.

CARYNTH
Carynth, the cleric who enjoys the fighting aspect of her job, takes a position toward the lead, or up front, whatever, with her scimitar drawn, unless there are objections from other bloodthirsty types.

BILADOC
OOC:
Before anything else, I'm *not* a thief!!... I merely believe in a more balanced and just distribution of wealth. ;-)
BIC:
I'll take a quick look at the rubble around the floor, looking for anything of value as I say to the party: 'I can go first, looking for traps and doors. I've got infravision, so I don't need to carry any light.'

GRUMACH
"Humphrey, what say you lead, then Carynth, Kinson, Saggar, Alof, Myself. I can carry a torch, and Carynth should, and Saggar."

HUMPHREY
Humphrey will be at the lead of the group and assumes that Kinson will be in the lead beside me.

ULATH
Ulath, the priest who enjoys his priestly side, takes his back place in the marching order

KINSON
OOC: I'm a little confused here about the marching order. First, lets see if I have all the party members (listed not in marching order):
Humphrey - "Fighter"
Carynth - "Fighter/Cleric"
Saggar - "Fighter?"
Alof - "Fighter?"
Grumach - "Fighter"
Ulath - "Cleric"
Biladoc - "Redistributer of Wealth"
Kinson - Paladin
Here are the requests so far:
Biladoc - Up front
Carynth - Up front
Humphrey - Up front
Ulath - Protect the rear.
Grumach - Protect the rear
Here is my suggestion for marching orders
: 4-Abreast
Biladoc Humphrey Kinson Carynth
Alof Ulath Grumach(T) Saggar
3-Abreast
Biladoc
Humphrey Kinson Carynth
Alof Grumach(T) Saggar
Ulath
2-Abreast
Biladoc Carynth Biladoc
Humphrey Kinson or Humphrey Carynth
Kinson
Alof Saggar
Grumach(T) Ulath
Single-File Biladoc or Biladoc
Humphrey Carynth
Carynth Humphrey
Kinson .
Grumach(T) .
Alof .
Saggar .
Ulath
Comments or criticisms are welcome.
Forgot to specify that the (T) denotes the person carrying the torch/lantern.

GRUMACH
>Grumach - "Fighter" Nope. Cleric. A violent one. "Fighting Monk Priest"

BILADOC
OOC:
Before talking about the marching order, only two remarks: Alof is also a "Redistributer of Wealth" (remember how he used to "fall into the shadows"?) and I think we haven't found him yet (at least, I haven't received any message saying so).
As for the marching order, I like the 2-Abreast option, with me alone in the front. As we used in the sewers, this allows the fighters to engage an enemy, striking over my head while I strike low. It also gives me the chance to look for traps or doors as we go along.
BIC:
If I find nothing in the rubble, I'll try to take a look at the ghasts (holding my breath as I do so). I'll say to Humphrey:
'Let me know when you're ready to leave and where you want me to stand.'
I'll stop the searching and get in line as soon as Humphrey calls me.

DM
You find an old dwarven shield that is corroded and has dwarven writing on it.

HUMPHREY
First of all when it comes to marching order it will be as follows:
Humphrey Kinson
Carynth Biladoc
Alof Saggar
Ulath Grumach
My Reasons, Sir Kinson has abilities to provide protection for the front lines. Should the front line get in trouble the 2nd line is well versed to get them out of a trouble. Our two clerics are spread out. We will stay away from 3 and 4 abrest for now. When needed Biladoc can move ahead, but while we are marching there is no need for him to be right in front of us. If he wishes to scout ahead of the group then he may do so.
Single file will be as follows:
Kinson
Biladoc
Humphrey
Carynth
Alof
Saggar
Ulath
Grumach.
Humphrey gets at the front of the two abreast marching order, waits for all to fall into place and then heads for the stairs.

DM
I take the two abreast order as the hallway is 10 feet wide. The stairs lead up a short distance to the East. (occupying a ten foot section of hall) Then the hall stretches thirty more feet and turns north. There are stone coffins along the left wall in this hallway.

BILADOC
I'll take the old dwarven shield and show it to Saggar and Ulath: 'Can you make anything out of this writing?'
I'll then take my position in the lead and move along.
OOC:
How many coffins are there? Are they open or closed?

DM
They are closed. There are twelve of them in total. They also have dwarven writing on them.

------------------
There's a moment of silence as the party members look at each other and at the coffins and the storyteller stops writing to wipe the sweat from his brow. Everyone has a feeling something is Alof ...sorry, afoot. That's what we'll see in the next chapter.