DM
Two elven females, one dressed in chain armor and being embraced by a chain mail wearing elven male. The other elven female wears leather and her head turns towards you. There are three humans in robes, and a powerfully built elven fighter wearing platemail and carrying a great shield. In his hand rests a glowing silver blade.

VOICES
Male voice "Well as small as we are it's not safe to split up. At least I'm against it as I am not as seasoned as some of you. Daughter of Los Vain, we need you to lead us. Would you please do so?"
Female voice quiet and almost tame, "Someone needs to scout that way....We shouldn't go near the source of that wind."
Same male voice "Ayla what do you know that we do not?"
Female voice quite low, "More than you could ever possibly imagine."
Other male voice, "Hmm...Ayla, would you be up to accompanying us if we were to choose a direction other than west?"
Female voice, "No."
Other stern voice, "Well Ayla, we cannot force you to let us accompany you. Nor do I have any desire to do so. However, we may be in Greyhawk as you wanted. Was this your master plan? To use us until you get where you wanted, then abandon us? Daniel gave me the impression that royalty used people, but I had faith that that did not apply to all royalty. Since you don't want us to accompany you at all, I am going to check the west tunnel."
Growling sound.
Other female voice, "Alright.. maybe I haven't been listening all that much so I could have gotten some things mixed up. The way I see it, she doesn't want us to go with her to wherever for whatever.. I'm still not quite clear as to what that is.. but she doesn't want us to go down any of the other tunnels to see if there's anything around or a way out.. Going back the way we came is impossible.. so what are we supposed to do? Just hang around here forever?"
Steady yet almost melodic male voice "Ayla, we cannot stay. If you know what danger is near, and it is as bad as you imply, we must move. I defer to your greater knowledge here; show me the way to travel, and I will follow. The others will follow or go their own way, as they choose; it has been this way since I met them. Which way shall we go, my sister?"
Female voice, "You go that way. I go that way.' Ayla says, and points into the wind.
"For once we agree princess. I think my friend, Timor, is not thinking so clearly when he suggests we investigate the source of that wind."
"As to your skills Mareena, how would you feel scouting the way with Silvan? As you can see (indicating his plate mail armor and shield), I am not equipped for such work at the moment."
"What do you think Silvan? I think we should get away from this wind. I've got a pretty good idea of where we are relative to where we started. Will you and Mareena scout the corridor to the north (pointing in the direction we came from past the door that Ayla flung open) - when you reach the first T intersection to the east - have a look down there and return. If you see or hear anything that might indicate trouble, return to us instantly."
"If, for some unforeseen reason, we are not here, wait for us at the place we started in the secret room. Simply follow this corridor north until it stops and then turn left (west) and follow the corridor until it ends in a door - that will take you back to the pillared room. The secret room will be our rendezvous point if any of us get separated from the group. If you go to the rendezvous point and we don't collect you within one day, you are on your own."
"I will look "carefully around the corner and see what I can see. Be back in a minute."
"Ayla, that's the way I suggested earlier and you told me was wrong. They way you are pointing is towards the source of the wind. Is that the way you want to go?"
"The way *I* go."

SAGGAR
Stepping into the hall and echoing a deep dwarven voice:: I think the lady needs accompanying!

MAREENA
Still peering down the eastern hallway, Mareena nearly jumps back at the sound of the voice, and the sudden appearance of the dwarf, her eyes wide. They travel from the dwarf to the human.. and then to the halfling, and she blinks once, glancing toward the other party members silently.
A young elven woman, she is about five feet tall, and on the thin side. Her gold hair is braided to keep it out of the way, her pointed ears sticking up through a few stray strands. She wears somewhat old, dull looking clothing as well as thin, light leather armor over this, and she has a worn brown cloak as well. At her belt is a large leather pouch as well as two daggers and a small, hand-crossbow. She also carries a sword, which she seems to have picked up during her travels. She wears simple leather boots, and in all, looks like your basic thief.
She folds her arms, not saying a word, and does not bother to introduce herself immediately -- uncertain as to the other party members' reactions to these newcomers.

AYLA
The 'lady' spins. "I beg your pardon?" she says, looking truly insulted.
"I fought a minotaur, and won, with no help, now you presume to make me one of your delicate, fragile topside princesses that can't fend for themselves but need a man to do it for them? Think again, sir. Never in this lifetime!"
Ayla is a tall, beautiful princess with flowing black hair and amber eyes. She could easily win any beauty contest with her small, finely chiseled features.
She is currently wearing tight doeskin pants and a loose white blouse with a low V-neck. She carries a backpack and at her side a sword is sheathed, crusted with Emeralds, diamonds, and rubies, it alone is worth a fortune, and the blade is made of pure silver. She is also wearing dirty boots that reach up to her knees, and fit her like they were made specifically for her, as she mumbles softly something about no one being around when she fought the dragon, and lost.

KINSON
Kinson steps out next to Saggar.
Next to the dwarf stands a very tall human in plate armor, a long sword sheathed at his side.
He smiles warmly and says, "Hello fellow travelers, I am Kinson. May we be of service?"

MAXIMILLION
Max looking even more perplexed, "There you go, you did it again, letting everyone know you are a princess. Why not tattoo Princess of Los Vain on your forehead, Ayla."
Then looking towards the newcomers, "You should be warned our lady here is very head strong, but she is a marvel. Now, what can you tell us of yourselves and our surroundings?"

BILADOC
I follow the others into the hall, saying to Saggar:
'Couldn't you have kept silent a little longer?!'
I then turn to the strangers and say:
'Greetings, travelers. If you be so kind as to tell us something about this place, we could help you around this maze. What is your answer Ayla, princess of Los Vain?'
Before you stands a 3'7'' tall halfling, with dark brown leather boots, dark brown breeches and a light brown shirt appearing beneath a studded leather armor. You see two short swords at my hip. Tucked in my belt is a pair of soft brown leather gloves. I wear a cloak of very dark grey, almost black. I have dark brown hair and very dark brown eyes and a warm smile. I also carry a mace and lots of daggers in my belt. There's a staff sticking out of my backpack and a crossbow and a short bow.

MAXIMILLION
A very handsome man in dark blue robes greets the newcomers:
"Well met friends. My name is Maximillion Starr", then in a little bit of an embarrassed look, "Do you mind telling us where we are. We are a little lost and would like some knowledge of our whereabouts. By the way did you notice a wind that went by here while ago? Big burst, than nothing.
As far as accompanying the lady, that's what we are trying to do. It's she who needs convincing that she lets us." The last is said with a bit of frustration.

SAGGAR
"It would seem to me sir that you should have more respect for those of royalty. It is her position that merits it despite your personal feelings. Ones worth is measured by deeds and acts and not such words. Yet her position does dictate respect for her post." speaks forth the burly dwarven cleric.

AYLA
The woman to the side of them all seems to answer:
"Answer to what? Where you should go? I already told you. all of you go that way." she says, pointing (Opposite to the wind, I don't remember the direction) "But I have to go to my destiny. And Ayla is not my royal name, if you insist on using my titles my name is Princess Thanus of Los Vain. Ayla was just my childhood nickname that I now use while travelling INCOGNITO."
Ayla shakes her head, and turns towards the wind, seeming enchanted by something.

SAGGAR
Pointing down the hall Ayla has indicated "That way should lead to an exit as I follow a gentle breeze from there as well"

TIMOR
The human man who will later identify himself as Timor the healing hand of Elanna, looks over the three strangers as they step into the light provided by Max's staff. He silently fidgets with his walking staff as he waits for the others to get over their initial conversations.
For some unknown reason (perhaps he wants to change the topic of conversation when he sees Ayla get upset, perhaps he is just tired and cranky, or maybe he just misses his mommy..), the brown-eyed Timor seems more agitated then his usual self. "I hate to interrupt, as it is always a joy to make new acquaintances, but do I dare remind anyone that we are in fact lost in a maze of corridors and have yet to see the light of day?
Might any of the three of you (referring to the three unfamiliar faces)know of a way out of here? or at the very least...where here is?"
(To those who give Timor a casual look will notice)
The man who will later identify himself as Timor is a human who stands just over six feet tall. His hair is well groomed and jet-black in appearance while his eyes portray an innocent brown coloration. His outfit is comprised of simple traveling clothes adorned with a trio of belt pouches and a single leather pack. In his hand, he walks with a dull metallic walking staff, while from his neck dangles a medallion, which depicts the glowing hand of Elanna (goddess of health and healing).

MAXIMILLION
"Ayla, would care to share with us a good reason that we will understand and agree with, as to why you should go that way by yourself and we should go the other?"

AYLA
"Because if anyone other than me goes that way, they will die."

SAGGAR
The dwarf steps forward "I am Saggar, Cleric and healer of this band. Well met fellow adventurers." He wears chain armor with twin axes at his belt, a heavy battle-axe held in his hands. A silver dwarven holy symbol about his neck. His hair and beard braided and dyed a bright yellow.
"We are where we have no idea. We traveled here via a gate from the southern continent. We hope we are still there as we have a quest of great importance" the dwarf answers.

MAXIMILLION
"But how do you know that we will die and by what means."

AYLA
"I know a lot that you will never understand."

TIMOR
Timor stares wide eyed at the graceful Ayla as these powerful words spew fourth from her tender lips. With a single eyebrow raised in a questioning manner the priest mumbles a questioning sound, "Eh?"

MAREENA
Mareena snorts quietly through her nose, and rolls her eyes, gazing toward the direction she feels she has been commanded to go by the princess. When she speaks, it is in a soft voice, so that people will probably have to strain to hear her, if they do want to listen.
"Royalty has spoken.. I suppose I should bow down and obey.."

KINSON
When the adrenaline of the situation slows down you get a better look at the human who introduced himself as Kinson.
Kinson is just under six-and-a-half feet tall, red hair peaks from beneath the helm on his head, he wears a full beard, which makes him look older, but its obvious he's still young. He wears plate mail armor that could use a good shining, a dark brown cloak hangs down his back, his trousers are also brown, and good leather riding boots are on his feet. At either side of his waist is a sword, one long the other short; he carries a dagger on the same side as the short sword. On his back is a bulging backpack, a short bow and quiver strapped to it. Around his neck hangs a leather cord that disappears under his armor, but you can see the top of what appears to be a holy symbol, perhaps the symbol of Tempus.
(OOC: I think this is Kinson's deity -- I have to check my records which I don't have here).
Kinson steps up to Mareena and says, "I'm sorry to startle you, we've lost a few friends in these dungeons, and I couldn't keep my excitement at finding new friends in check." If she allows he bows, takes hold, and kisses the back of her hand.

MAREENA
Mareena will probably keep her distance, with her arms folded, not allowing him even the chance to kiss the back of her hand.

KINSON
Kinson turns his reach for her hand into a graceful flourish during his bow. He pretends not to notice the elf's reaction, smiles warmly and moves on to introducing himself to the rest of the party members.

SAGGAR
"AR AR AR HERE HERE KINSON, WORTHY LORD !!!!!!!!" Saggar utters a deep roaring yell while his axe lifts high, gleaming in the mages light.

KINSON
Kinson throws a wink and a smile in Saggar's direction, but says nothing.
He moves over to Maximillion smiles, and offers his hand for shaking. "How do you do?"
While shaking Max's hand his smile momentarily wavers and you see a look of sadness in his face, he asks:
"You seem vaguely familiar, have we met before?" You notice his free hand stroke the scabbard of his short sword. He regains his composure and smiles even wider, "I guess not; well met, indeed!"
Kinson greets Timor warmly as well, "a healer of Elanna, wonderful! We have lost many friends that were healers, your arts and prayers are never appreciated enough until they are missed."
Last but not least, he introduces himself to Ayla, the princess. He approaches her, drops to one knee, with one hand on the pommel of his long sword, the other clasped to his breast, he says:
"My lady I am at your disposal. These good folk obviously care for you, they desire to assist, and protect you. I ask your approval to join your cause, and receive these good people as compatriots."
Then rising and turning to the others he says, "there are only three of us, which is too small to travel alone in this dangerous place, I ask if we may join thee?"

AYLA
Ayla doesn't even seem to notice at all.

KINSON
Kinson turns to face Ayla, a look of indecision on his face. He fiddles with something underneath his armor, like he is trying to grasp an object.
His expression clears, he straightens his armor, turns toward the others and joins their conversations.

LEGILDUR
Legildur rolls his eyes in disbelief at the loud antics of Saggar - no wonder they have lost so many friends in this complex!
Seeing that the strangers pose no immediate threat to the party, Legildur decides to leave his introductions to later and see what is keeping Voriax (as he hasn't returned yet during all the talking). He moves west along the corridor (following Voriax's route) to see if he can find him.
The newcomers see a figure (who stands at least half a foot shorter than Kinson) in a suit of engraved plate mail armor (you can't see the design from where you stand) move fluidly away from the group down the west corridor.
They only catch short glimpses of him through the rest of the party. His left arm bearing a kite shield while a full leather backpack and unstrung long bow sit on his back. A couple of pouches and a quiver hang from his leather belt.
You catch momentary sight of his face within the mail coif as he turns away, and the fine features you see reveal his elven blood and part of why he moves so smoothly in plate mail. You realize he must have substantial strength and dexterity in addition to the elven blood to explain the easy motion. Your eyes are drawn to the stunning long sword he holds easily in his gauntleted right hand - a silver and mithril, rune-etched blade, emitting a faint bluish light along the edges, seems to tug at you until he disappears down the corridor.

MAREENA
Mareena starts in the direction Ayla told everyone else to go, pausing to glance back. She folds her arms, leans against the wall, and waits, watching as the others worship the princess. She doesn't see what the big deal is. Sure, this one must be born of royal blood or whatever, but to someone who couldn't care less about Royalty, Mareena's only seen the individual act rude.
She does tell herself, however, that she is not jealous or anything of the sort, merely annoyed at the situation she has found herself in. She gazes down the passage, squinting slightly to see in the darkness.
ooc - Suuure, elf.. just keep telling' yourself that.. *grin*

DM
The direction she indicated for you to go is east. That is the direction where the halfling, dwarf and human knight just came from.

KINSON
"We found no way out from whence we came. But there are ways we did not explore."

BILADOC
I approach Kinson:
'Are you going to give up on Ulath, Grumach and Carynth so soon? Some friend you are...'
I turn to Maximillion:
'My name is Biladoc Lightfoot. Yes, we came here following that same wind. We had a fight with some kobolds a few moments ago and I thought they could have caused that wind by opening some passage to the outside.'
I look at Ayla and then back to Maximillion:
'Is she always this nice? I bet that poor minotaur committed suicide, just to stop listening to her. Here, I've drawn a map of this place.'
I say to Timor:
'If you are a healer, could you please assist me? Those kobolds and their flying snakes hurt me a bit (-9hp).'
I turn to Ayla:
'What makes you so sure only you can go in that direction and live? What's down there? Do you know anything about a dwarf called Bereg Whitehelm? And a white dragon?'

TIMOR
The brown-eyed Timor goes back to remaining unusually quiet as he waits for everyone to ready themselves to continue. His mind is filled with questions as to where they are and how it is that they can return to the open surface to see the sun once again. True, he always does enjoy meeting new people, but the priest feels unusually unsettled in this environment.

AYLA
"The dragon will kill all but me. That much I know. She calls to me now... I need to go..."

MAXIMILLION
Max looking perplexed, "No one said anything about a white dragon. White dragons are evil from what my master told me. How do you know that this dragon will not kill you? Also, if we are to divide now how are we to rejoin again?"
Looking towards the new comers "and who is Bereg Whitehelm?"

KINSON
Kinson turns to Max: "We have found evidence that a dragon does reside within these dungeons. When we first arrived we found some small dragon scales, and marks on the floor of a large clawed beast. From the direction we came there is a dwarven temple with a very large tapestry depicting a White Dragon, the floor at the entrance to the temple is heavily gouged. Within the temple lies the crypt of Bereg Whitehelm, a dwarf that was turned into a specter -- we have slain his specter, but at great cost, some of our party was killed."
Again Kinson touches the short sword hanging at his side.

SAGGAR
"I say we should stay together and a white dragon is a creature that should be slain and not followed. Besides that is the way from which the breeze comes and it smells of an exit. I head west as I think we should all do, milord Kinson"

KINSON
"I agree, staying together is the best idea -- whether we head toward the dragon or not doesn't matter to me. Did Ayla and the missing party members both go the same way? If yes, then I say we go that way too. If not, then I say we go the way of the missing party members; if we follow Ayla and they return, they won't know where we have gone. But we know which way Ayla is going. And she doesn't care about us. We should follow Timor, and Legildur -- they went after the missing people."

AYLA
Ayla smiles.
"Silvan, you can't go.... period. That is not a way out. Or if you want to you can, be prepared to watch anyone else who comes die." Ayla says, and with that puts her nose into the wind and starts walking.
"One of them is already coming! I'll be there soon to help with him!" She calls into the wind.

DM
Note: Voriax has gone west and turned the corner and has not come back yet.

VORIAX
Dragon!! Dragon!!! Oh, just kidding. Nevermind.

AYLA
"I want only the Orb."

SAGGAR
"Orb? The orb of power? I am sure you do but rest assured that is what we quest for as well. It is an item that must be kept from evil or destroyed."
Saggar moves down the west hall as well.

AYLA
"It is my kingdoms." Ayla growls, glaring at them warningly.

SAGGAR
"It is nay of your kingdom. The orb has been missing for eons and was of the Lizard King not of your faerie kingdom young princess" Saggar grumbles, going down the west hall

DM
True words chimes the DM. :-)
Meanwhile Timor goes down the west hallway and looks south where Voriax went.

KINSON
"I said they were lost, not lost forever, as my dear friend Humphrey was. I assure you I have not given up on them."
Kinson's face becomes concerned at the mention of Biladoc's wounds.
"Friend, you hide your wounds well, I did not realize you had been injured. Please accept my apologies."
Kinson places his hands on Biladoc's shoulders and says a small prayer -- Biladoc is healed for 8HP.

BILADOC
I say to Kinson:
'Sorry Kinson. I should have known better than to say that. Me and my big mouth, huh?'
In a lower voice I add:
'Not much luck with the ladies, hey? How come you never treated Carynth that way? She was worth ten of these.'
I then turn to Ayla and say:
'What do you intend to do when you meet the dragon? You say he won't kill you. Even if *you* try to kill him? And about that Orb, there are followers of Diabolicus and drows after it, too. We came across both and I still have some scores to settle. I'd like to go along in that quest.'

KINSON
"Indeed I agree, she was special. I'm always shy with the ones I really like. Sort of just clam up. If, no when..., I see her again, I will endeavor to change that situation."
He squeezes Biladoc's shoulder and smiles at him.

AYLA
"Who said anything about kill *HER*. We have been friends for some time. We speak constantly, even now.. Come if you want, I don't care, but she will sacrifice all of you to increase the orbs power for me."
Ayla says, and starts jogging down towards the wind.
"Oh, She's a Wind Dragon by the way!"

SAGGAR
A broad grin crosses the dwarf's face "A lass with the brass of a dragon. I like ya lass, and 'tis my opinion we need more royalty like you. If such were the case the world would be a far better place for us all!"

MAREENA
Mareena watches as Ayla disappears down the hall, and she rolls her eyes, muttering something under her breath which is probably best unheard. She looks around, to see who still remains.
"Um.. alright... who tricked me into coming along?"

BILADOC
I say to Ayla as she starts to go away:
'If you are such good friends, how come you can't stop her from killing us?'
I turn to Saggar:
'Do you think that scepter we found may have some influence over that Dragon?'

AYLA
"I'm her friend, but when a dragon gets hungry, they get hungry."

SAGGAR
" I know not but would welcome a chance to rest and see if it will"

MAXIMILLION
Max smiling:
"A wind dragon did you say, well that's a dragon of a different color entirely. It also explains the burst of wind we just experience. Now, that I understand a bit more, I believe that Ayla, should indeed go on by herself. The only question is Ayla, where should we meet you, once you are done with the dragon, or is the wind dragon going to fly you back to Los Vain?"
Turning to the newcomers, "What's this about a scepter, may I see it?"
If the party still follows Ayla, then Max will do so as well.

AYLA
"Back at the little village inn."

SAGGAR
"Mareena how did your band get into this dungeon? Do you know where we are in the lands? The princess mentioned Los Vain, are we on the northern continent?"

MAREENA
Mareena frowns a bit, and shrugs, glancing around, having not moved from her spot.
"We came through a green circle. I have no idea where we are in the lands, nor what continent."
She grumbles in a quiet voice, and motions to the way Ayla went.
"~SHE~ probably knows, but good luck trying to get information from her. I'm still trying to figure out what is going on... I'm new to the group, in case you didn't notice.."

SAGGAR
"It would appear that she cares for not but herself and your party is nothing but a tool for her to accomplish her goals"

KINSON
"Based on the little time we've known her, I would have to agree. But that is often the case with royalty."

MAREENA
She snorts through her thin, almost delicate nose in reply, but does not comment. She's never been overly impressed with royalty, and this simply proves her past theories correct.

AYLA
Ayla glances over her shoulder at Reena.
"Interesting way to act towards someone who climbed spider webs to save your hide. Maybe you'd like it back up there if I'm such a bad person."
Ayla says, and with that starts running.....

SAGGAR
Saggar smiles and laughs:
"Such a picture of beauty when ya do that lass, almost as good as the princess with her nose ahigh"

BILADOC
I say to Ayla, smiling:
'I can understand that. Ask her if she likes fresh kobold meat or giant weasel. I know where we can get some of that.'
I turn to Saggar:
'Et tu, my friend? What's the matter with you guys?! Spring fever?! Don't you want to show them the scepter we found? Maybe they find a use for it.'

KINSON
Kinson looks toward Biladoc: "Show Max the scepter, let's see if he knows anything about it."
Kinson begins following Timor and Legildur:
"No sense attracting attention in the hallway any longer."

DM
Saggar has the scepter

MAREENA
The elf scowls, and shakes her head, folding her arms tightly about her chest.
"I'm not anything like that princess."

AYLA
"I agree whole heartily, after all, I know how to take care of myself."

MAREENA
She frowns in the direction the princess goes, but doesn't reply, supressing her retort for some other time. After all, she didn't want to get eaten by a were-princess and her dragon friends, or anything like that.

DM
Timor and Saggar head west following where Voriax went.
At that point Ayla begins jogging west bypassing Saggar and Timor unless they opt to keep up.
(This is going on down the west corridor where it turns south.)
You move down the west hallway where it turns south. You see Voriax talking to the wall.

SAGGAR
Saggar opts to keep up with her

TIMOR
"Great Elanna have mercy...Ayla's illness is spreading..."
Timor mumbles to himself as he witnesses the sight of Voriax and the wall.
Slowly, calmly, and confidently, Timor walks to Voriax and places his hand on Voriax's shoulder. "Voriax...are you alright? Come, let us rejoin the others.."
Timor tries to urge Voriax back with the group.

DM
Saggar joins you here around the corner and then Ayla begins running your way.

VORIAX
Voriax can't help but laugh a bit outloud.
"Have no fear, good friend Timor. I am not insane. Far from it. I am trying to convince these two elven people behind this secret door to come out. Mayhap a priest of Ellanna can do a better job. They seem to have a fear of human mages."

DM
Ayla turns the corner seeing Voriax and the wall. Shortly joined by Legildur.

TIMOR
Timor stares at Voriax a few moments to see if he is being serious or if it just a mental illness that is talking. When Voriax becomes insistent, Timor decides at the very least to see if he himself can hear the voices. Besides, enough strange things have happened recently, so who is to say this isn't real.
To Voriax in a low whisper, "Do these elven folk speak Kenil?"
[assuming Timor gets an affirmative response]
"Hello?" He says to the same wall which Voriax was speaking to.
"'Tis I, Timor, helping hand of Elanna. My friends, please join us in the light. We can get some food, and then sit down and discuss what ails you. My other friends are devising a way to leave this maze, perhaps we can offer you an escape from the labyrinth as well?"
Timor barely waits a heartbeat for a response...he feels ridiculous talking to a stone wall. "Come!" he says to Voriax in a more assertive tone while grabbing his arm:
"We must rejoin the others...we have MANY problems to work out..."

VORIAX
[hopefully they will respond soon or Voriax will put up a struggle causing the priest to wait a few more seconds - giving these two 'voices' (if they really exist) a chance to respond]
"One moment Timor. Let these two have a chance to use reason. We mean them no harm, and they must know that. We would have done something by now if we were going to. Of course, they may have gone away from the door. Let's open it if we can and see."
Voriax will attempt to find the latch for the secret door, hoping he saw enough of its workings to do so.

DM
Voriax finds the latch easily that opens the secret door.
Then finally Kinson goes west and reaches this point.

TIMOR
Timor, figuring that if Voriax is crazy it is best to humor him for a bit and if he is not crazy then there really is someone here who may know of a possible way out, waits for Voriax.
While waiting, Timor decides to speak some more:
"Friends, It is I again, Timor of Elanna. Please, you must realize the helping hands of Elanna mean no harm to anyone. I beseech you to come out so we can at least speak face to face for a moment."
(if there is still no response)
"Would you feel more comfortable speaking to others of your elven kind?"

DM
That leaves, Biladoc, Mareena, Max, and Silvan at the intersection. Everyone else has gone down the west hallway.

VORIAX
To the two elves (well, one elf and one mixed elf):
"I am stepping away from the door. My companion Timor here is a cleric of Ellanna. He is a good friend. Mayhap you'll trust him more and come out. We are short on time, and confused as to where we are."

TIMOR
Timor takes a single step through the secret door and looks around as best he can in the darkness. "Hello? It is I, Timor, helping hand of Elanna." is all he says awaiting a response.

VORIAX
Voriax, gambling that they already moved down the hall, shines his light down there. I have the hooded lantern still lit from earlier.

DM
The door is opened and Timor steps into a small square room lined with bookshelves. there is also a small wooden desk in the center with a crushed skull in the center of it. A male and female elf stand in the room with weapons drawn.

VORIAX
Voriax will step slowly into the room behind Timor. "Again. We mean you no harm. As a matter of fact, these books are much more interesting to me right now."
Voriax will begin to browse the books, not being able to hold himself back. (Assuming there are books on the shelves).

AYLA
Curious about this new development, A gorgeous elven woman looks inside the room. Her large eyes looking around the room curiously, and studying the newcomers. Easily one of the most beautiful creatures you've ever seen, she is as easily as beautiful as any royal.
"Oh, Hi." She says simply, and looks back towards the wind, starting to go that way again....

DM
You feel no more wind.

BILADOC
Seeing (almost) everyone heading west, I'll go in that direction, too:
'Wait up. I've never seen a wind dragon before.'
When I see the secret door, I'll squeeze between the others to look inside. I say to the two (one and a half?) elves in the room:
'Relax. If we intended to cause you any harm, you'd be dead by now. It's 25 of us against 2 of you. My name is Biladoc. Who are you? How did you get to this place? Do you know of a way out?'
While saying this, I'll approach them smiling and holding out my hand.

DREW
"Crazy old evil mages always work alone, right? And they usually don't have elven thralls nor do they threaten to leave when we don't say a word, right?" thinks Drew.
Slowly, very slowly, Drew stands up from his hiding place behind the huge chair. He motions for Kyrie to do the same.
Now that doors are not slamming in your faces you can examine these two people a little more.
On the left is a fairly short being sprouting the telltale ears of an elf. He is dressed mostly in leathers and earth color cloth. He has a bow sticking up behind his head, a sword at his side. He stands straight, and looks you defiantly in the eye. He blond hair is tied tightly at the back of his head. He speaks:
"Hello," he says in an accent you have difficulty placing, "my name is Sir Andrew, Son of Glorn The Short, O'Basque." He looks around and seeing no immediate reactions to his name continues, in a much easier tone:
"Oh, this is stupid. 'Sound like my father. Ugh. So anyway, that was my title but if you want me to respond please call me Drew. This lovely lady at my side..."
He gestures towards an elven woman who stands a little shorter than he. At his last statement, she turns to give him a stare which, to all of your amazement, does not turn him into salt. Hurriedly he says, "Uhm, right, uh, this is Kyrie, perhaps she can introduce herself."

VORIAX
Voriax mumbles hello from behind his book.
"Glad you opened the door. How many of there are us now anyway?"

DM
With a bright flash of light at the ceiling and a loud plop. A halfling comes crashing from mid air with daggers drawn. Those of you that know Alof the halfling thief see him looking confused sitting in the middle of the floor.

VORIAX
Those of us who don't are confused as well. But I try and ignore the newcomer to look through the books. I'll trust Legildur to take care of business. This is pleasure time.
:-)

KYRIE
As Drew grabbed her arm and dragged her inside that awful room again, she caught a glimpse of the human mage that caused him such a fright. She felt kind of relieved; somehow, humans were less threatening to her than gigantic snakelike monsters and killing black clouds. But the door closed before she had a chance to say anything, and probably for the better for she got time to remember how treacherous humans are, and how many a sailor lost his life in a port thanks to a trusting nature.
She hardened her resolve for the coming fight as she helped Drew try to block the door with furniture. But then there was nothing to do but listening to a friendly voice through the wall and feeling trapped in this small -way too small- room. The darkness didn't bother her, but the stall and dusty air, the closeness of the walls and the sheer weight of the stone she imagined over her head gave her a suffocating impression. Her breath came shorter and more laborious as she struggled to stay calm. The stranger's voice calling friends and Drew's babbling about evil mages mingled with the sound of her own blood rushing to her ears to create a deafening roar that threatened to shatter her composure. She thought she could see the bookshelves tipping slowly towards her, with all those heavy books about to fall on her head and bury her alive, and she pushed against the unmoving wall trying to prevent their fall. She couldn't breathe in there; the air was all out. She noticed her hands trembling. She could still faintly make out voices through the chaos in her mind, but getting air into her collapsed lungs felt harder and harder, and she couldn't care less about what they were saying. She watched as the ceiling came slowly down on her, making the room smaller and smaller...
And then suddenly there was fresh air coming in, carrying a strange smell that was unknown to her, and she took it in with great gulp of air. It was a man's smell, strong and alive, healthy. Then there was another one, and she welcomed these signs of life as one would a savior. She looked up with unfocused eyes and saw light, meaning that the door was open. The walls took back their normal place, the ceiling was back up. She ignored the newcomers a little while longer, breathing in and out, taking back her self control and what was left of her dignity. She started to make out words again as the roar in her ears diminished to a dim background noise. They were asking questions.
"... we are or how we might get out of here?"
She couldn't talk just yet, not trusting her voice not to reveal her panic of just a moment ago. How she missed the open air and limitless space of sky and sea from a ship's deck! She closed her eyes for a minute, conjuring this image of freedom, trying to hear the waves and taste the salty air.
"Would you care to come with us, there are others...we are searching for an exit."
She liked his voice, and she felt much better. Cursing the day she ever set foot in this city of human fools, she straitened up and faced the newcomers. She was astonished to see how many there were! One of them was completely absorbed in the bookshelves that so nearly killed her sanity a few moments ago; let him have them, let him have them all!
"Relax. If we intended to cause you any harm, you'd be dead by now. It's 25 of us against 2 of you.'"
Oh, great! Talk about stating the obvious. Guess that might explain why we had to hide, heh!?! Duh! They've lived a mere 20 years or so and then they feel they know everything, those humans! After a century spent with them, you get bored with it all... Realizing that her fright had caused a surge of anger, she went back to calming herself down -knowing she wasn't going to be fair if she didn't. He was smiling, and he was right.
" My name is Biladoc. Who are you? How did you get to this place? Do you know of a way out?"
She swallowed hard and tentatively smiled back.
Then, just as she was about to introduce herself, with a bright flash of light at the ceiling and a loud plop, a halfling came crashing from mid air with daggers drawn and nearly landed in her lap. She jumped back, knocking her head against the far wall and pushing the mage and his newly acquired books. Running a hand trough her long and very pale hair, she could feel a bump growing. Just one of those days. She sent a murderous look towards Drew as she heard him say her name; somehow, it must be his entire fault. She smirked a humorless smile and said to the newcomers:
-" I am called Kyrie, and am I ever pleased to meet with you..." ;-)

BILADOC
I forget the two elves:
'Alof! Is it really you?!'
I jump to him and help him up, as I say:
'Where have you been? You've lost some good fights. There were the guards in Pensula and then the ghouls. Those stinking beasts made me throw up my lunch, but we showed them. And then the specters and the kobolds and now there's a wind dragon and some of our friends are gone but we found these lot hanging around and they are afraid of this maze and don't know a way out and why are you looking at me with those wide eyes and hanging mouth and why don't you say something?'

ALOF
Standing with the help of Biladoc I say to everyone:
"Greetings, My name is Alof as some of you already know. I'm as surprised to see you as you are to see me I can assure you. Never the less I am glad. Where I've been, you ask? Well, when I went through the teleporter when I met Saggar I just happened to stumble upon another.
That took me to a tree a couple hundred feet high. In that tree I found this ring, I was kinda hoping to find a mage who might be able to let me know what it does?
Anyway, I went into this town called Waterdeep and when I mentioned the word Pensula and Asga no one had heard of them. I met two warriors one by the name of Inglenuff and the other Daren. Well we were searching caverns to try and find a teleporter back home we were chasing a goblin that ran one way and we went another. Unfortunately we ran into a troll instead and well it killed Daren and gave me these nice claw marks. When that was over a light came towards me and knocked me out. When I came to I found Inglenuff and the dead troll gone. I then stumbled upon something else that sent me here."
Then I turn to the people I know and ask:
"Could any of you fix this?(pointing to wound. I'm at 3hp). Where's Carynth and everyone else? If Humphrey's dead did anyone find a short sword on him because I lent it to him and it was given to me by a dear friend."

TIMOR
A thought occurs to him, perhaps Ayla may find her answer as to whereabouts of this orb she seeks, or it may hold a clue as to undoing her other problem(s). Perhaps there could be story of recount of a tale involving the 6 teleporting mirrors and finding someway to control the location which they teleport to/from...or there maybe information about this place, or about how to leave, or about the green circle....the possibilities are endless...so, the brown eyed priest will in fact take two moments (rather than a single one) to peruse the books that adorn the shelves.

DM
The books don't seem as useful as one might think. You notice Voriax is reading an old book he pulled out of his pack.

VORIAX
Voriax takes three or four books off of the shelves and begins to place them in a bag he has been carrying. "If we can wait here a few moments, I may have some information that will be helpful. Let me check this book."
Voriax will pull out a different book and start quickly pawing through it.
(No index, eh Charles? :-)

TIMOR
The brown-eyed Timor, fighting off his desire to spontaneously combust(don't ask), greets the new faces with warm smiles. "As I had said to Biladoc, Kinson and the others...mayhap we can save the formalities for another time. Right now, I only wish to return to the surface and see the light of the sun once again."
Timor gives a quick glance to the books (do they appear to be written in Kenil or some other language?) If any one in particular catches his eye (something that would catch his eye would be something related to (any) religion or philosophy, or perhaps just a really interesting story book, or something about the use/application of various herbs and plants - or random dm choice) Timor will slowly pluck it off the shelf and hold it for inspection at a later time.
He heads for the door and turns back to speak to the new faces once again, "Several of my traveling companions are headed westward in search of a 'wind dragon'. I on the other hand, apparently have a differing agenda. From the legends I heard the town bard sing, dragons, of any type, never have their lairs at the entrance/exit, but rather in a secluded section of whatever complex their lair resides in. For the long I stay in these accursed caves, the more I feel the walls closing in upon me, that is why, I in fact, intend to head off in the opposing direction. Feel free to know, I, or any of my friends, would welcome your company, but it is up to you to choose which way your heart and destiny lie."
With that said, Timor (who seems to be becoming claustrophobic) decides to head in the direction away from the dragon. After taking a few steps, the brown-eyed priest realizes he's blind without Voriax's light. With a deep sigh, he turns and walks in the same direction as everyone else. He pauses at the doorway to make sure everyone who was in the book-laden room has now exited and staying together; if necessary, he will say a few words of encouragement to hurry along anyone who appears to be lingering in there (Voriax, don't make me come in there and beat you away from those books! :P

DM
The hallway west turned south and went past the secret door. It goes ten feet past the secret door and then turns east again. I think Biladoc can provide you with an accurate map of what lies in that direction.

SAGGAR
Smiles broadly: "Welcome Alof my friend."

KINSON
Kinson rushes over to Alof and hugs him, which looks quite odd -- a six-and-a-half foot tall human hugging a halfling. "Glad to see you again, it seems we've searched for you a long time... Carynth and the others are missing, they were taken from us by magical means.
(OOC: some of them dropped out of the game). You are correct and Humphrey was killed -- I have one of his short swords; it is definitely magical -- it helped us vanquish the specter that killed him." Kinson gives Alof the short sword (+1).

BILADOC
Seeing Timor and Voriax so interested in the books, I say to Alof:
'You can tell me all that later.'
I go search the desk and afterwards take a look at the books. If I find any that looks interesting (very old, strange symbols, glowing ;-) ) I take it along.
As I search, I ask Drew and Kyrie:
'How did you get in here? Do you know a way out? I've got a map of this maze, but it is incomplete. Do you know any other areas of it?'
I show them my map. On top of it is written:
http://www.geocities.com/Area51/3355/a_m_m.html
;-)

DM
You find none with glowing symbols. But there are lots in writing you can read that look important. You find an old feather Quill in the desk and that is all.

ALOF
I turn to Biladoc and say:
"Ok, I tell you what happened to me later. Could you please tell me what the parties goal is at this time."
Then turning to the party I say " What are these mirrors you talk about? Could the thing that sent me here be one of them?. Oh, and by the way I'm almost dead so if we have any priests here healing would be appreciated." (I say that last line as friendly as possible).

KINSON
Kinson says to Alof:
"Saggar, Biladoc and myself just joined this party only a few minutes before you arrived. They seem as disorganized as we were when we had such a large party. There is the princess, Ayla, who is heading toward a wind dragon that lives within this maze, she has told the rest of us not to follow her, because the dragon will kill everyone but her, like most adventurers we are being fool hardy and following her anyway. I haven't heard talk of any other goals, but before the two parties met up one of our chief goals was to find you -- that is now complete."
Kinson smiles big and slaps Alof on the back affectionately.
I forgot Kinson carries spells. Kinson looks ashamed for not helping his friend sooner.
"I've already laid hands for today, but this will help."
He approaches and casts cure light on Alof.

SAGGAR
Turns towards Kinson nodding and walks to Alof:
"Little friend might I extend healing to thee?"

MAXIMILLION
Maximillion Starr looks at the Alof and Kinson, "Who was the Humphrey anyway? Sounds like the type of guy I would like, if he were still alive today."
Max then continues the way Ayla went.

KINSON
Kinson looks at Max, then says:
"Humphrey was one of the bravest warriors I've ever known. He gave his life for us. I hope his spirit helps touches you."

MAXIMILLION
Max looking thoughtful:
"You know, I think this warrior and I were sort of kindred spirits. Now, to catch up with Ayla."

TIMOR
Timor realizes he is essentially blind without a light source, so he does end up following the others. Besides, this is an unusual type of dragon, perhaps it does in fact have its lair near the entrance/exit...or perhaps it has its own entrance/exit (such as an opening in the roof for its own flight accessible way)

KINSON
Kinson follows after everyone else -- the direction Ayla took.

DM
Ayla is just standing at the secret door right now looking around.

TIMOR
After looking through the books Timor looks up at Voriax and then the two elfin forms.
"Come...I really think it is time we left... I do not intend living my life under the surface.."
He says those last words as he pulls his clothing in upon himself as if he were cold or unnerved. He knows he has no authority over these people, but he wants to leave, and truth be told, he doesn't want to leave alone. - He never expected his life to turn out like this when he was studying at the temple in his youth...

SILVAN
OOC:
Boy, ya' turn yer back for a few days, and the whole world drops in! Sheesh! ;-)
BIC:
You may (or may not) have noticed a golden colored elf in bright chain mail crouched where Ayla was sitting by the wall. A closer look reveals some features that seem similar on both the princess and the heretofore-silent elf. As Ayla (and others, apparently) travel the hallway of the winds, his crouches, staring after them for a long time. Suddenly, he stands, looks around him, then mutters to himself:
"None shall perish for her obstinance; or her selfishness." With that he moves towards the hall where Voriax and Timor disappeared from view, the yells, "Timor! Voriax! I go to gather the others who have followed my sister! If you follow as well, remain at a safe distance, and we shall all leave together a soon as possible!"
With that, he turns and strides quickly down the hallway, hoping to catch up to them before they get too far. If any are still in the area of the intersection (Mareena, I think?), he will say as he goes:
"Go with Timor and Voriax; it is time we were quit of this place... and this quest!"

MAREENA
Having been waiting quietly in the hall, she was sure she didn't want to get eaten by a wereprincess or her wind-dragon friend. Waiting seemed like a better idea than anything. She blinks as she sees this new elf appear, and sighs, standing up from where she was leaning against the wall. Then she heads down the hallway in search of Timor and Voriax

TIMOR
Not looking up from what he is in the middle of doing, Timor listens to Silvan's words and nods. When he sees 'Reena standing in the room, with a bit of a startle:
"Oh, 'Tis you... I had not heard your soft footsteps entering." With a bit of a grin, the brown eyed Timor adds, "You really must stop sneaking up on me like that."
As if just now remembering where he is and who is with him:
"Oh, Mareena, this is Kyrie and Andrew...err Drew. Drew, Kyrie, this is Mareena." as he speaks there names, the priest uses his hands to motion towards whichever elf he speaks of at the moment.
After they've had a chance to exchange greetings (informal as a nod or more formal as a handshake),Timor directs Mareena's attention to the books:
"'Reena, you never told us what it is exactly you search for... may I direct your attention to these books. They hold knowledge of one type or another, perhaps they hold the knowledge which you seek?"
He figures even if she is just looking for excitement, one of these books may hold a story or legend or map of sorts. He also briefly wonders, as not everyone is literate, if Mareena can read, but the brown-eyed priest doesn't ask since the question maybe considered rude.
(After about five to ten minutes have passed)
Timor decides they have been there long enough and that the others have had a good enough head start. He closes whatever book he is reading and looks to Voriax:
"Voriax, You have 'played' long enough...we will revisit this 'toy store' should time permit later, but for now...we really should hurry after the others."
He looks to Kyrie, Mareena, and Drew (and possibly Alof as I am unsure if he went with the others or not... but my guess is that he went with the others since he apparently knew them) "If you all would care to accompany us, Perhaps together we can find our way out of here and see the light of day once again.."
The priest begins making preparations to leave the chamber and waits for everyone else to do so. (he won't hesitate to tell Voriax to hurry up another two or three times as necessary) When all are ready as he stands in the doorway, Timor says:
"As Silvan said in his fleet-footed passing, The others are further ahead, we have given them quite a headstart. We shall follow in the direction they went and hopefully we'll manage to get out of this place that is beginning to feel more and more like an underground prison." Under his breath he mumbles, "I hope the others have left a trail for us to follow that is..."
With metallic walking staff in hand, Timor waves Voriax on (since he is the one with the lantern and Timor's human eyes can't see squat in this infernal darkness)
(and they're off?...)

VORIAX
"One moment, Timor.", mumbles Voriax, caught up in the book he pulled from his backpack. "If you can wait, I believe I may be finding some answers or at least clues to this orb Ayla seeks. I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner. This book should hold valuable information. I *must* browse it now."
Voriax eats up the book (not literally, Timor!)

MAREENA
Looking toward Drew and Kyrie, she nods quietly, brushing a bit of loose hair back behind a pointed ear. Then she speaks -- although looking slightly skeptical of the newcomers, her tone isn't non-friendly.
"Hello.."
As Timor mentions the books, her eyes move to skim them, widening slightly, and she moves to look over them carefully although she doesn't pick up or flip through any.
As Timor begins to prepare to leave the room, she turns back toward him, heading in that direction, coming to stand near the wall which she leans back against to wait -- she'd rather be out of here some time within her lifetime as well.

KYRIE
Kyrie shakes her head, as if trying to rid herself of the ethereal remains of a particularly bad dream, and looking up at Timor, sends a luminous smile his way. She might not be the most beautiful girl around (that place being filled already, it seems... ;-)), but she is pretty enough and knows how to get her way with men, and how to recognize one she likes when she meets one.
This one she does, and she will go with him, trying to avoid the direct light of the lantern Voriax carries; she seems to be seeing better without it. She will thus try to walk in front of that second little group (about 10' ahead) - although she is in no mood to fight for leadership and will gladly leave the scouting to anyone whom seems even remotely interested.
(Charles: if she goes first, she will use her tracking skills to follow the first group, first looking for signs they might be leaving behind and if that fails, for tracks - Lord knows they're numerous enough to leave plenty of them, even if the environment isn't ideal!!! If someone else goes before her, she will contently follow, taking notes on her piece of wood.)
As to what she looks like (sorry, just realized I didn't take the time to describe her yet!), she stands 59" tall, with a lithe but rather muscular body for a woman. She is wearing clothes you would hardly associate with the fairy folks; they seem more like sailor's pants and shirts, and a few sizes too big for her at that. She has a supple but strange way of treading the floor as if she expected it to slide away from under her feet at any moment (anyone familiar with the sea will recognize the walk of someone who hasn't been ashore long). Her long hair is braided and very pale, although it is rather hard under such bad lighting to determine if it is very pale blond or downright white. Her complexion is dark, her face carrying the kisses of the salted air, fierce winds and sun, making it hard to guess exactly how old she is, even though her curious, alert violet eyes give away her youthful age. She has strong, working hands - or fighting hands, from her stance. She carries a long sword on one side and a hand axe on the other, and when she greeted you guys with both in hands, seemed to be rather comfortable with them. She does not carry a backpack, but has a large sack that she swings over her shoulder when travelling. You can also make out many pouches and scroll cases dangling from her belt. She has the strange habit of carrying a round piece of wood (literally a slice of tree trunk) on which she constantly draws with a piece of charcoal as she walks.
As she passes in front of Timor, she calls out to Drew:
"Let's go. There isn't any more we can do here."
He follows without a word.

AYLA
'Are you still there? You didn't leave did you?" Ayla yells as she looks about.

VORIAX
"Who are you talking to?"

AYLA
"Her!"

DM
Everyone has gathered outside the secret door to the room with the bookshelves.
The hallway goes north and south there. North it turns East(hence where everyone just came from), South it turns east. (Hence on Biladoc's map it shows where that is.) So where to my good friends. Voriax is busy reading an old book. Will the group wait for him or move on.

SAGGAR
"What do you speak of these mirrors? Do you have a way of controlling them and might we see them? I might be able to control them. As to the orb, I know it is located on the southern continent from where we were brought. Therefor mayhap one mirror will take us back there. Can we see? Does a mage have identify to cast upon a couple of items I carry?"

VORIAX
Voriax steps forward.
"There is but one mirror, but it works to six different locations as far as I can tell. We have been at two of them, and I'm not sure we want to take a chance of a third. The one was the lair of a lich, and we used the mirror to leave that place. We went to a tower of a Red mage, and had to flee that place. Two out of six were not pleasant. I'd rather wait until we have to before we try a third. And I have access to identifying magical things, but not at this time of course. There is much preparation to cast such a spell. When we come to an area of rest, I will do my best to figure them out."

SAGGAR
"Voriax did you focus on a location when using the mirror or could I see it, how do you select which location to be transported to? As to the items I would greatly appreciate that. Are there other routes the way you came Alof? What of that gust of wind?"

MAXIMILLION
Max looking at the secret door:
"Oh yes, I too can help out identifying once we have has a chance to rest in a town. Question: How do you know we are not in the southern continent? Did anyone walk into this place and therefore knows where this place? Or did all of you teleport in through a device like we did."

SAGGAR
"We teleported here, but I have come to the conclusion from what I have seen so far that we must be otherwise. It would appear this is a place in the northern continent from what I have found. No dwarves have ever lived in the southern continent"

VORIAX
"I have the mirror, but let's wait until we get to a safer place to unwrap it. It's secured and I am wary of breaking it. God knows what it would do if broken. It contains a good deal of magical energy. When we identify the items, we'll look at the mirror. Sound good?"

SAGGAR
Looks at Voriax:
"Yes that does sound well sir. Mayhap we could return to the room from which we have come and rest there while we look at these items. The mirror makes sense with what is going on here and if we can get it to work for us we could truly benefit from it in working our way to the southern continent"

VORIAX
"I have a feeling that Ayla will not rest again until she finds her dragon. So we may have to wait until later to take care of that. Time is not a luxury down here it seems."

KYRIE
Kyrie looks around, a little annoyed at how everybody seems to be lost in some thing or other. She searches into her large sack a little, and without changing tone or raising her voice, using exactly the same pattern of speech she had been using from the beginning, she asks:
"Would the orb you're looking for look anything like this one, per chance?..."
(Charles: in her hand, she holds Polaris iron ball. Let's see what happens

DM
She holds up a slightly rusty iron ball about 3 inches across.

SAGGAR
Smiles:" I would be willing to bet those are iron bands of bolaro. If thrown at a target and focused upon they will open to bands and entrap the target"

VORIAX
Voriax puts his book away in his bag.
"I'm ready. Did you wait for me? That was nice of you. I have learned a few things that are interesting. Ayla? Why were you looking for the orb again? Do you intend on using it? Oh, and how did you become friends with a dragon. Last I knew, dragons didn't get along with elves that well."

AYLA
Ayla shrugs "Of course I'm, looking for the orb, and that's not it."

VORIAX
"That doesn't answer my questions. What do you intend to do with the orb once you find it? I have found some information that leads me to believe that it is extremely dangerous to use it if you are not a dragon. And since the dragons used it against the elves in the previous wars, what makes you think this dragon will help you?"

AYLA
"I just know. And I'm going to use it to protect my kingdom and win the war. If I don't we will be pushed from existence."

VORIAX
"Well, it's your decision of course. As long as you know that there is great risk in using it, and that it was used before to try and destroy your people."

AYLA
"And now it can be used to help them. How ironic."

SAGGAR
Looks at Ayla:
"The orb is of great power and I fear great evil. Power might be maintained by securing it from the dark forces that search for it, but mayhap no good can come from trying to use its powers. From what I have found, I assume it evil and the forces it controls twist good into a wicked image of itself."

ALOF
Alof looks around:
"Good friend Saggar, never did truly thank you for saving me from the guards. Thank you."
He says slapping the burly dwarf on the back.

KINSON
Kinson moves over to Ayla, "Princess, I have in my possession some papers that we found. These papers are written in a dark language that I do not understand but we were told they contain information concerning the war with the elves. We believed they were written by the parties responsible for instigating the war, perhaps they contain information that would be useful to you.
I will give them to you, but on one condition: That whatever information is within them must be shared with everyone present here now. So that we may choose for ourselves how to use what we learn. I would expect that anyone who wants to examine them may do so. We seem to have quite a few scholars in our group, based on the love of literature I've seen."
Kinson waits for her response before retrieving the papers.

AYLA
Ayla turns, looking interested:
"Papers written by the ones that started the war... Yes, I'll tell you if I can read them, please, give them to me!"

MAXIMILLION
Max perks up at this:
"If I may be allowed, I will cast a spell on this document tomorrow, that will allow me to translate it. If so I will read it out loud immediately so that all may know what it says."

AYLA
Ayla nods. "I think that will be acceptable."

KINSON
Kinson nods his head: "Um Hmm. Thank you Max, I shall take you up on your offer."
Turning to Ayla, he says, "Princess, please do not be offended, but the orders of my church -- to discover all information I can about this part of the world, must override my duty to you. I will hold the papers until tomorrow, Max can then read them, and then together we shall decide what to do with them."
He does not wait for her to answer (suspecting an argument), but turns and strides in the opposite direction.

AYLA
Ayla almost seems to forget about it, and looks around again.
"Oh where could she be?!" she says, almost looking annoyed, and continues wandering the passages....

BILADOC
I take some of the books, the ones I find more interesting (older, bigger, ...). Not many, I don't want to became a walking bookcase. I say to Voriax and Timor:
'You seem to know something about magic. Would you be interested in examining some magic writing we found in one of the rooms? Our friend Ulath, Saggar's cousin, disappeared right after reading it. It's the closest thing to an exit that we've found. Kinson made a copy of the words. Care to look at it?'
I then ask Ayla:
'Have you been here before? You say you can talk with the wind dragon by telepathy. Can't you ask her where she is or how can we get out of here? Or at least what's the name of this place.'
I try to look at Kyrie's writing:
'Are you keeping a map of the route you've traveled so far? Maybe we can join what we've got and complete the map I've started.'
I take a look around and say:
'Well, where to, now? We've wandered for some time in this maze and it's now almost desert. As far as we know, there's only one ghast, a couple of kobolds and a 30 feet snake... huh, I mean the snake is 30 feet long, not that it has 30 feet.'
I take one of my short swords and give it to Kinson:
'Here, you can use of these. I'm sticking to my mace and daggers.'
I turn to Mareena and ask her:
'Do you know how to use a cross bow? Not a hand one, but a normal seized. If you like, I can give you this one. I just picked it up and didn't had time to get use to it.'
If the answer is positive, I'll give her the cross bow and the bolts I got from the kobolds.

ALOF
I turn to Kinson and say:
"Thank you for keeping the shortsword intact. It's too bad I couldn't have gotten it back from Humphrey himself." (I'm assuming when Kinson mentioned the sword's owner when he was talking about Humphrey it was me he was referring to)
Turning my attention to the map Biladoc showed us earlier I say to the group:
"The area with the water looks kind of like the area I was in when the flash of light I mentioned hit me." I'll follow the actions of my friends Biladoc, Saggar and Kinson.

AYLA
"I'm trying, but she won't answer for some reason..."

KINSON
Upon hearing his name Kinson walks over to Biladoc and takes out a small piece of parchment.
"Here it is," he hands the parchment to Max On the paper is written the following: "have ye a nice day _Without"
(OOC: Perhaps Charles would like to amend that for any magic user types -- this is what Kinson understood it to be, but he used a mirror to copy the inscription verbatim because looking directly at it causes the person to disappear.)
"Thank you my friend, but I think Ill stick to my trusty long sword. I kept Humphrey's sword because it is magical and was one of the few weapons we had that could strike the Specter. It has now been returned to its rightful owner, and I am satisfied. It was a gift while I had it, but the gods work in mysterious ways, I don't mind not having it."

MAXIMILLION
Max overhearing the conversation:
"I would also like to take a look at it. If need be I can cast a spell tomorrow to read it."
Max smiling, "It's good to see a hobbit who is long winded. I'm sure you and Timor will be good friends."
Max will concentrate and communicate with Solaman (an owl who has been keeping out of sight says "Whooo".)
DM: Does Solaman have any idea which way to the wind dragon due to being sensitive to the wind patterns in the tunnel or maybe a way that makes him nervous?

KINSON
Kinson has already handed his copy to max. He says: "The inscription is near here, we could also walk to the chamber and you can examine it first hand. If you would like."

SAGGAR
Smiles at Alof:
"The least I could do for a friend of my brother."

BILADOC
I smile back at Max:
'Yes, it's nice to meet someone who can speak more then me. And I like you too, Max Million of Stars. It's not everyday I meet a human who calls me a hobbit instead of a halfling.'
I look at the others and continue:
'I guess the rest of you are also good company. You're probably just scared and confused. Don't worry, we've been in worst situations and managed to get out safe.'
I look at Kinson and then at Legildur:
'Does any of you have any suggestion as to where we should go? I'll go along with what you decide, although I'd like it if any of the mages would try to determine where that magic inscription took Ulath to.'

MAXIMILLION
Max grinning:
"Yes, I always though halfling a derogatory term, I mean what are you a half of. I've met some hobbits who have been quite amazing and have since no longer referred to them as halflings. A human term if I ever heard of one."

SAGGAR
Smiles at the hobbit:
"Scared lad? Nay I am most comfortable in such tunnels of stone beneath the ground. Yet I too have a quest and a desire to find where we are at in the very least."

KINSON
Kinson has handed his copy of the inscription to Max, but he makes sure that anyone else who shows interest in looking at it, gets to see it.
As to where to go next Kinson does not know. "I was commanded here by my church elders to investigate goings on in the south, and I have learned of a war with elves, but have not learned the cause. Since I do not have a specific agenda, it doesn't matter which way I go next. Unless the party wishes me to be their leader, and I strongly suspect that this party has members that would object to that, so I will follow instead."

VORIAX
"We normally go by majority rules around here. A leader is not necessarily the best idea it seems."

SAGGAR
Turning to Kinson:
"Kinson it must be the way out, have a nice day -without or outside!"

KINSON
Kinson runs his hand through his beard looking thoughtful.
"That does seem to be the most obvious interpretation, but where there is magic, there is often trickery. However, I would be willing to read the inscription directly."

SAGGAR
Saggar looks at Kinson:
"I follow thee noble lord. As to the war with the elves, it would appear a dark force has formed an evil alliance to attempt their destruction. It is a sad thing they are flanked on all sides. Mayhap it is because they are the key to the conquest of the world or just because they have been an annoyance to all of their neighbors."

KINSON
Kinson smiles at Saggar:
"Good friend! We have traveled well together. I think we should stay with this group, as there is better safety in greater numbers, against most things anyway. And I get the feeling they have other plans for the moment. We'll see what happens."

SAGGAR
"I would think that is possible and would seem the logical interpretation from what we have seen. Perhaps milord we should rest in the old tomb again and see if we can make sense of the items we found and heal. Then we could proceed through that gate and exit these halls"

ALOF
If we're not going anywhere soon (let's get moving!) then I'm going to pull out the mysterious ring I found in the tall tree and show to one of the mages in our party to hopefully figure out what it does.

DM
Show it to which one?

ALOF
I'll show it to either Max or Voriax (I believe they're mages) or whoever else would care to see it.

DM
He shows you a ring with a pulsating gem set in it.

VORIAX
"Interesting. But there isn't anything I could determine about it until I could identify it. Mayhap later, we can figure it out."

MAXIMILLION
Max looking at the ring with the pulsating gem:
(DM: Does Max's Magic Knowledge tell him anything?)
"Let me study it while we decide what to do. As anyone put it on yet to any noticeable effect? If I can not figure anything out, I'll be happy to identify it, when we get the chance."

DM
Looks old. that's about all you can discern besides the fact that it is magical.

DREW
As the group heads out of the library in pursuit of the rest of the party, Drew pulls up next to Voriax.
"Voriax, sir" he says in a conversational tone, "Would you care to tell me where you are from, how you came to be here and what quest (if you are on one, of course) you are pursuing?"
"Kyrie and I had been at sea for close to 8 months following the usual merchant milk run. And when we put into port in Pensula well it seems as though the villagers had truly lost their minds. They hollered that the elves were all traitors and had to be killed! You can understand Kyrie and my fright. We tried to get back to our boat but soon a mob of angry villagers spotted us and tried to lynch us, right there on the spot! Not knowing what to do we fled down some alleyways and dropped into the sewer system. Walking through there we met up with a dwarven priest of Zephyr named Polaris. He led us to a room in which, inscribed upon the floor, was a design which radiated magic and looked for all the world as a summoning circle."
"Well Polaris tried to use his orb (the one Kyrie just showed you)on the design and he vanished. Just like that, pop! Kyrie and I, not wanting to get separated also stepped into the circle and we ended up here as did Polaris. Wherever _here_ is. Anyway we came upon the wizard's chamber you have just seen and I tried to look around quietly when all of a sudden a black cloud formed in the ceiling and attacked me, yanking me off my feet. It was then Polaris gave out a mighty bellow and a gale force wind erupted from him tearing into the black cloud which was holding me hostage, killing it instantly. The blast was of such a force that all that remained of Polaris was his orb and his clothes. The rest of him vanished.
Kyrie and my goals at present are to get out of here and somehow find our way back to our boat. It seems as though our paths lie together for the time being, I would very much appreciate to hear a tale of your travels."

KINSON
"Did you say Polaris? We met a dwarf named Polaris in the city of Pensula. He turned into a statue right before our eyes -- a friend in that city in currently looking after him."

MAXIMILLION
Max string off into the oblivion,
"Well Polaris was the being responsible for the wind we felt. Now that being is gone and the wind dragon no longer seems to be here, therefore it makes me wonder if Polaris was the wind dragon in a polymorphed state."
Looking at the two elves who were with Polaris, "What more can you tell us of Polaris?"

VORIAX
Voriax appears thoughtful as he considers...
"That is most interesting. I know not what magical trap or creature that might have been. It is really too bad that you lost your companion. As to me, I met up with a party in a bar on Peninsula a long time ago. We were following a druid named Ess to the southern continent for some unknown reason. I believe he was following directives from his god. At any rate, we got caught in a battle with another ship (of pirates) and fled into a green gateway at sea. It magically transported the whole ship into some underground river. So then our party went on shore to look around. We ran into a great deal of orcs, and a huge lizard, and eventually the lich Quandor.
We lost many party members in those days. I finally used the magical mirror we had found to transport us to the tower of the red mage. We escaped that bastard and his hellhounds and made it to a nearby village. From there we went into an underground tunnel system where we found the green circle you mentioned. Or at least one that was similar to it. We followed Ayla (a quick glare in her direction here) here.
And now we are trying to escape. That is the short of it."

SAGGAR
Walks with Kinson:
"So milord, what thinks you of the action we should pursue from here?"

KINSON
"I believe we should stay with this group. I have a strong desire to confirm what these papers say. I'm sure that knowledge will inspire yet another decision for us."
Kinson turns to Max: "I say Max... Which direction was your group heading when we stumbled upon you? Are you about due for a night's rest? Or shall we continue in the direction you were going? Are we waiting for the book readers?"

ALOF
Alof looks confused:
"Your brother...You did say your clan was Cragcliff, correct?"
Alof's eyes almost bug out.
"Dain Cragcliff was your brother?"

SAGGAR
Nods slowly:
"Indeed that he was, my little friend."

KINSON
Kinson overhears their conversation:
"Dain was as good a warrior as Humphrey, perhaps even better, I knew him only a short time. I met the two of them together, at the Green Dragon Inn. Dain was on a quest to destroy the cult of Diabolicus, before I met him they waylaid him in the Chask woods, he escaped, and I'm happy to say many cult members did not. Dain had been separated from the group he traveled with before us, they were supposed to meet up in Pensula."
Suddenly Kinson's face grows sad:
"He never made that meeting. Your brother was special, I shall never forget him." He wonders off slowly to the edge of the party's light...

SAGGAR
Nods at Kinson and follows him out of the parties light:
"Your kind words are appreciated noble one. He was a great warrior and I shall follow in his footsteps to accomplish what he started."

SILVAN
Taking a deep breath, the mostly-silent elf in chain turns to gaze at the group.
"I have just realized, gentle creatures, that I have been quite rude, and would like to rectify my ill manners. I am Silvan, brother of Ayla, and chosen of Laskanthar. I am deeply ashamed of my behavior since you arrived; it not my normal habit to ignore others. Please forgive me."
Turning to look at the newcomers, he adds, "It is good to meet you, Drew, and Kyrie. Though the last time I saw this many of the First People together, I believe there was a coronation!" Speaking then to the dwarf and the halflings, he says, "Well met, Saggar, Alof, and Biladoc. I have seen members of your races before, of course, but never met before today. The stalwart and steady hand of the Mountain Dwellers is legendary, and the joy brought by the Small Folk is always welcome."
Moving at last to the human, he finishes:
"Well met, Kinson. Did I not hear that you , too, are a chosen warrior of your god? It is good to meet another who shares the commitments I have made," he says, then looking away and lowering his voice, he adds "though I would not doubt Laskanthar is as disappointed with my actions recently as I am.
Perhaps we should attempt to leave this area. If my sister is indeed waiting upon a dragon, it may not choose to reveal itself to so large a group. Did some of you say you knew of a way out?"

DREW
Drew takes in what Voriax tells him of his adventures.
After a few moments of pondering he says to Voriax:
"Well, it seems as though the best we can do now is to follow Ayla until she finds her dragon and perhaps it can get us out of this place."
Having said that Drew will follow the group.
"By the way," he says to Voriax, "you hungry?"

VORIAX
"Actually, yes. When we get a break again, food sounds good. You have anything other than the jerky I am carrying? I can't cook, so the dried stuff is easiest for me."

KYRIE
A voice suddenly calls from up ahead:
"Did I hear someone mention food...?" ;-)

BILADOC
I say to Saggar:
'Don't you want to go back to the room where Ulath disappeared? Maybe one of the mages can understand that inscription and find out what happened to him. If you prefer to move on, I'd suggest we take a look at the water covered area . If that 's where Alof was before, maybe we can find a way out to that Waterdeep town.'
At Voriax's mention of food, I turn and say at the same time Kyrie does:
'Did someone mention food? A small lunch would be nice. Does anyone know a good way for cooking giant weasel?'

SAGGAR
"You are right my friend, that would seem to be the exit from this place. Let us return to that room. Come."
Head back from where we came to the room Ulath vanished in.

ALOF
I am going to pick up my things and put the ring in my pack and go and check the halls to make sure the way is clear. (daggers drawn)

MAXIMILLION
Max seeing the group just standing around:
"Well Ayla, since you cannot seem to locate your dragon anymore, shall we look for a place to spend the night, or do you want to keep searching."
Looking at the folks he just met today:
"Do any of you have any areas which you looked by and now would like more time to explore?"

BILADOC
I follow Saggar, saying to the others:
'Come on, we can rest there, prepare something to eat and examine all those items everyone has found quietly. There's even a barrel of kobold ale. Perhaps one of you mages can turn it into something drinkable. There's also a fresh spring of water.'
While moving I say to them:
'And remember. *Don't read that glowing inscription* or it'll send you to wherever it sent Ulath.'

VORIAX
"I am open to going back to a resting room, but Ayla may not be. Mayhap something has happened to the dragon, and we should go check it out. Not that I am overly concerned for a dragon, but the orb may be in jeopardy."

KINSON
"It seems the party is undecided as to which way to go. Some want to go through the watery hallway, some want to chase after a dragon. We could flip a coin and let fate decide one way or the other. Or we could all decide to go a completely different way altogether. That is what I do when undecided, do something completely different."

MAXIMILLION
Max looking perplexed, "May I make a couple of points:
1) I thought it was already determined that Solaris was the source of the wind and therefore the wind was not from an exit.
2) Since Solaris disappeared in making that wind and Ayla's contact to the wind dragon has also disappeared, then that might lend one to believe that Solaris, was in fact the wind dragon, polymorphed of course. Regardless Ayla's no longer senses the dragon and therefore, correct me if I am wrong Ayla, she doesn't know which way to go.
3) From what you said of the glyphs, I'm afraid that studying them will cause them to be activated.
Conclusion: I see four options and would like to know if there are more.
1) We have then means to make a device to track the orb with. We could do that and see what we find out."
2) Read the glyphs and hopes it takes us out of here.
3) Use the mirror to go to an old or new location.
4) Explore this dungeon some more and see what turns up.
Of course there is also discussion, but that is just a delay to the other four.
I vote for continued exploring as this place seems to bring adventures to it. There might be a reason."

KINSON
Kinson listens to Max and nods his head:
"Yes, I agree with you. Everywhere we've been has been lethal, so this place is as good as any to explore. I also think we should stay and explore this place."

VORIAX
"As long as Ayla doesn't object, I feel we should continue to search this area. We may very well be in the right area, and leaving it would be premature. We need to figure out exactly where we are."

SILVAN
Silvan nods, saying:
"I, too, agree with Maximillion. As Voriax said, we may be in the correct location, but not be aware of it. My personal preference is to have Ayla lead us in search of the dragon, whatever its name may be. Finding it and getting the orb seems to be the best way to get everyone out of here. I would like to hear more of this 'Solaris'. What makes you think that this person is the dragon?"

MAXIMILLION
Max looking at the group, "Didn't Drew, or was it Kyrie, tell us that shortly after first getting here, they and Solaris who was with them encountered a cloud like creature and that Solaris produced a high burst of wind. In doing so, he destroyed the creature, but was no where to be found, only what he was wearing and carrying remained. Am I wrong?
As far as Ayla leading us to the dragon, I don't think Ayla now knows where the dragon is and therefore cannot lead us to him. Now those who were with Solaris how long ago was that burst of wind?"
DM: Max is trying to determine if Solaris' attack was at the same time as the Gust of Wind we all experienced.

DREW
Drew says to Max:
"Uh, I believe it was me who mentioned that and I am sorry to have caused all this confusion but I am sure that our companion's name was 'Polaris' and not 'Solaris'. Furthermore you are correct on all points of Kyrie and my story.

DM
Saggar and Biladoc start heading back to the rune room where Ulath disappeared. Others discuss searching some more the area as Biladoc and Saggar move off towards there dwarven friend disappeared.
Where are you going? Saggar and Biladoc are moving. Everyone else is talking.

ALOF
Considering their the only ones I know well I think I'll go with them.
I'm also a little curious.

TIMOR
Timor, who has been strangely silent these past few minutes, finally speaks after much contemplation.
"We seek answers to questions we are not totally sure upon. Perhaps it's best to remember the greater powers and ask them for assistance. Elanna's might is too involved in the powers of healing, but perhaps those of you who find inner strength in other greater powers have the ability to divine knowledge? [Anyone here have spells of divination? For I know I'm not the only priest here anymore. ] Even something as simple as an augury can help."
The brown eyed Timor looks around for any responses from the other priests/religiously devoted. - you can't very well expect Timor NOT to suggest turning to the immortals in times of questions ;)
[After any response]
"Now, another matter I have thought of. Seeing how some have mentioned needing rest, perhaps it is best if some of us do just that. I propose some of us return to that library we found, it had a closeable door and will provide relative safety for proper resting. Then, those who do not desire or need the rest can split into two scouting groups. They can head off in separate directions and get a better understanding of the surrounding layout of this complex. After a few hours they can return and notes can be compared. Once we see what has been learned, both from our own rest and from the scouting groups, we can determine our next course of action..."
He looks around and waits for input and thoughts.
[in case you couldn't figure out what he just said: he suggested splitting into three groups, one group that needed to rest/memorize spells, etc, two separate scouting groups]

KINSON
Kinson sees his friends leaving, "I will go with you too, we have traveled far together, and I proudly stand at your side." He turns to the others in the group, "I implore you all to come too, most of you have expressed the idea of exploring this place, if you come you are furthering that desire. The area is very near and is also a defensible place where we could rest. I believe the larger our group the safer we are, so we should stay together."
He follows after Saggar and Biladoc, (hoping that the others follow too).

DM
Now Biladoc, Saggar, Kinson, and Alof head to the Kobold room where Ulath disappeared and the magical runes are written on the wall.

VORIAX
Voriax will come along, and attempt to persuade Legildur to come too.
"Timor? Ayla? Everyone else? You coming?"
Voriax is anxious to examine more runes.

DM
Legildur nods and follows you behind Saggar, Biladoc, Alof and Kinson.

AYLA
Ayla continues to ignore them completely, wandering down the corridor.....

DM
Which corridor? Please refer to Biladoc's map.

DREW
Drew follows the group which is heading towards the "runed" room and anxious to rest and study.

DM
Ayla starts wandering down a hallway (waiting for her to tell me which one).
Legildur, Kyrie, drew, Voriax, Alof, Biladoc, Kinson, and Saggar head East then south making there way towards the room of the runes. That leaves Silvan, Mareena, and Max standing in the hallway. Please let me know what you are going to do.

MAREENA
Standing silently as Mareena listens to the rest of the group speak and discuss various things, most of which she has little knowledge, she decides against getting into the conversation at all. As what is now a rather large group decides to head toward some room that apparently has runes in it, she stands, and heads in that direction quietly, following along.. trying not to attract too much attention to herself in such a large group.

DM
Mareena now joins the group going to the old Kobold room that had the runes in it. Leaving Max and Silvan standing there and Ayla wandering around.

MAXIMILLION
Max in concentration then realizes that most have left:
"Hey, where did everybody go?" Then he sees the tail end of the group, "Hey, wait for me!"
Max rushes to catch up with the main group using his Q-Staff for light.
After he catches up, "Good everybody is staying together.

DM
Everyone enters the runed room. Straight ahead runes glow on the wall. Is anyone going to read them? Max turns left and goes down a short hall to a small room with a fresh spring and a dead giant weasel in it. there are some piles of furs and a few crates in this area.

----------------
And now we leave the adventurers to rest and recover. More exciting adventures next Artisc chapter, same Artisc page.