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::the basement is pretty much as you left it, gems sparkling in the wall, with flickers of light running from one gem to the next:: * Rhys stands up and stretches his back out. "Finally." ::the room smells mildly of cat-musk and blood:: * Lisl wrinkles her nose. "You'd have thought that stench would be gone by now...." * Zoya follows Lisl, a faint flicker betraying her magical shields. "What, you thought Rhys would mop the floor while he was here?" She grins at Rhys. * Jelarthna drops lightly down to the basement floor <Lisl> ::grinning a little:: Or at least brought a 'lert to do it.... <Jelarthna> ::sniffs:: None to pleasant, is it? <Jelarthna> Hello, Rhys. Anything happen? * Michelle floats down with the benefit of a levitation spell. "Sorry it took us so long, but we wanted some kind of plan before rushing off into another world." <Zoya> ::looks at Michelle with a falsely vacant stare:: Did we have a plan? <Rhys> Right, gentles. There's your portal.. ::gestures to the flickering hole in the wall:: I'll watch this end for you, but if you're not back by the time of the new moon... well, don't expect there to be a portal here anymore. <Jelarthna> Understood. <Jelarthna> Do what you have to to keep this end safe. I should be able to bring us home. <Lisl> Well, we've got...what, close to two weeks? ::repositions her pack:: Not a problem. It's only a desert world inhabited by mad magicians and monsters. What could go wrong? <Rhys> Very well then. ::settles back against the wall:: ::through the portal, you catch a glimpse of a large spider pacing around:: * Jelarthna grins at Lisl <Jelarthna> Do you really want to ask? <Bluestar> ::there is a quiet *pop* in the corner, and Bluestar walks out of the shadows:: Right. How's everyone? <Lisl> Do you really think I care, Jel? ::grins:: As long as I get my exercise.... <Zoya> ::blinks and stops to consider the spider:: Nasty looking thing. If it's as fast as its smaller brethren, we'll need to hit it immediately, and hard. <Jelarthna> Ready, willing, and eager. <Lisl> And speaking of exercise, I've got a plan for that. ::pointing through the portal:: <Tyl> I think I'll hide in your pocket for this one, okay, love? All I'd need is wings for that thing... <Michelle> Let hear it then Lisl. <Jelarthna> ::chuckles and nods:: Yes, as a matter of fact, I do care. <Lisl> Jel, you've studied this thing...how many can go through this portal at once? * Tyl climbs into Jelarthna's shirt pocket <Jelarthna> No worries, Tyl. I'll keep you safe. ::smiles and helps her in:: <Jelarthna> We can go through it roughly as fast as we could through a door. It's a powerful portal, and the transference is complete and effectively instantaneous. <Jelarthna> I would suggest Lisl and I go through first unless someone has another idea. <Lisl> ::chuckles:: Well, I've already seen the transference... what I mean is, how many can go through simultaneously? * Crystal Spider wanders out of sight. <Jelarthna> as many as can dive through at once. It's only limit is our size. <Jelarthna> Think of it like a door, it's pretty much like that. * Zoya stares at the ceiling, apparently mentally rehearsing some spell. <Lisl> ::nods:: Well enough... okay, here's my plan... <Jelarthna> Although... * Jelarthna looks thoughtful <Jelarthna> if we hold hands, we -should- transfer simultaneously <Lisl> We toss something inanimate through to get its attention, Jel and I jump through and engage it, and the heavy-hitting magic-users follow with some heavy-duty bug spray after we have it immobilized. How's that sound? <Bluestar> I can enact a psionic defense mode that will protect you as long as you're within about ten feet of me. Still, we're liable to be a little conspicuous if we do that. <Zoya> Holding hands is no good. We'll need every possible instant to attack that thing once we cross. <Lisl> ::nods:: I need both of mine free to attack. * Crystal Spider paces across in front of the portal again <Zoya> Why not just time its pacing and jump through when its back is presumably turned? * Bluestar coughs quietly, and leans against the wall the portal is on. "Is it just me, or does it not seem like a good idea to stand in front of that portal while the spider is walking back and forth?" <Zoya> Heh. If it was going to notice us, it would've already, I'd think. <Jelarthna> ::grins at Bluestar's comment:: I think we should go with Lisl's idea. <Zoya> Go, then. <Lisl> Because if it's like a regular spider, it can see in almost every direction, and it's *damn* fast. * Bluestar shrugs, still leaning against the wall. "I won't take the risk of it suddenly noticing me, then." <Lisl> ::grins at Bluestar:: I had to stand directly in front of the portal and wave my arms to get its attention last time. I think the portal comes out a bit above its head-- so be ready for a drop, Jel. <Jelarthna> Oh, and be ready for a bit of porting sickness. <Bluestar> That could be bad. <Zoya> ::scowls:; How bad? <Michelle> Guess I'll get to try out my new toy. ::waves her staff a little:: <Jelarthna> mmm, shouldn't be too bad. This is a pretty stable portal. Just something to be prepared for. * Crystal Spider walks back in front of the portal, dragging something behind it that looks like a brown bag <Zoya> ::nods:: Let's get on with it, then. <Jelarthna> wait.. what's that? * Lisl reaches into her jerkin and pulls out what looks like a jumble of silk rope and cloth-wrapped rocks:: Ready? What's wha-- ::turns and looks:: Hmmm... * Crystal Spider walks out of sight again. As it passes the portal, you see the bag is actually a person wearing a brown robe <Lisl> She's brown-bagging it? <Zoya> Go! We'll deal with it when we get to it! <Lisl> Well...that looks like a distraction to me...going *now*, Jel! <Jelarthna> Okay, Lisl, you take right, I'll get left! * Jelarthna leaps through the portal * Lisl jumps through the portal, aiming for the spider's right side. * Bluestar gestures eloquently to the portal. "Ladies..." * Jelarthna lands on his feet to the left of the spider, but stumbles as he draws his sword * Lisl immediately begins whirling her rope-contraption over her head, which spreads out into three weighted "arms" about three feet long each. * Michelle renews her levitation spell then floats through the portal. * Zoya shrugs and jumps through the portal, reaching into her sleeve to extract a wand as she does. * Bluestar looks at the portal and sighs. "Somewhere, it is forever... Evermeet." He leaps through the portal. * Zoya aims her wand at the spider and waits for a good opening. ::you come out of the portal in the center of a LARGE damned web made out of something similar to spun glass. The heat is unbelievable and pounces on you nearly as fast as the spider does::* Lisl tosses her bola, aiming about halfway up the legs. "Hells! What's THIS stuff?? * Zoya stumbles slightly in the unexpected intensity of the heat, but manages to keep the wand pointed at the spider. <Jelarthna> ::shakes his head to clear it, sword moving almost lazily to turn aside a leg plunging towards him enough to hop and stumble out of the way:: I don't know! * Crystal Spider jumps at Jelarthna, pincers snapping hectically * Michelle doubles over in pain as soon as she passes through the portal dropping to the web. * Lisl makes fists of her hands, calling both Claws, and cuts herself free of the Web, already panting in the heat. <Lisl> HEY!!! BUZZ BUZZ!!! Remember me?? * Jelarthna leaps back, hissing out a quick Magic Missile, which hits the spider in the abdomen * Bluestar gets an irritated look on his face, concentrates, and takes on a smoky, ghostlike appearance, and drifts through the web and to the ground. * Michelle takes several serious cuts as she collapses on the web. * Crystal Spider turns on Lisl, raising its abdomen and a shot of fiery light issues from a stinger like appendage towards Lisl <Zoya> ::A thin green ray shoots from the wand as the spider turns toward Lisl. It hits the spider in the leg and shatters it.:: * Lisl grits her teeth as a slight misstep causes a broken shard of web to slice through her leggings...she hisses, and the cut closes over. <Jelarthna> ::looks over at Michelle:: damn! Lisl, keep it's attention! ::jumps lightly over to Michelle and scoops her up, not breaking the web, but leaving traces of blood at each step:: * Bluestar resumes solidity, gets that look of concentration again, and begins concentrating on the spider. * Crystal Spider shudders, then spits a mouthful of toxin at Zoya, coating her face and upper body <Lisl> Oooh, this is GONNA hurt...::goes into a rolling dive to dodge the ray, picking up multiple glass cuts as bits of web shear off on contact with her Claws:: * Zoya banishes her shields so she can see through the toxin coating them, and raises the wand again, trying to aim for its head. * Crystal Spider bobs her abdomen again, catching a light beam across at Lisl again <Michelle> I'm alright Jelarthna...just caught me by surprise. ::Michelle's voice sounds weak and she appears to still be in some pain.:: * Crystal Spider turns to deal with the bola entrapping it's legs, biting through the weapon in a snap... suddenly, without warning, half of her back leg buckles under her, breaking at the joint * Lisl does an end run around the spider, trying to keep it distracted and away from Michelle, slicing at bits of web as she goes. "DAMN!" She trips, and eats sand as the beam catches her in the left leg. * Bluestar gets a harsh grin, and begins to concentrate again. * Zoya is trying very hard *not* to move much, and instead is waiting for a good opening... <Jelarthna> ::blinks in surprise for a moment at Michelle's earring:: Maybe so, but I need to get you off of this web... ::spits out a harsh sounding spell that sweeps aside part of the web and web debris, and jumps down through the hole to the ground:: * Crystal Spider leaps awkwardly, two of her legs being mostly non-functional or missing, at Lisl. It catches her across the back with one ripping front leg <Lisl> AAARGH!! ::screams, and turns like a cornered animal, lashing out at the offending front leg with her Claws:: <Zoya> Jelarthna! I thought we agreed you'd conserve your magical energies! ::shoots at the spider again, missing its head and barely scratching its back:: * Crystal Spider shudders again and seems to keen in a high pitched wail as another leg, adjacent to the first, snaps at the joint. The spider scrabbled for a minute, raking Lisl's leg, and falls over onto the sand. * Lisl's blood paints the sand, followed by a gush of water as Lisl lands on one nearly-punctured water bag. * Jelarthna mutters something under his breath and sets Michelle down carefully, and rushed over to Lisl and the spider:: * Bluestar stops concentrating. "Okay. Kill it." * Crystal Spider flails wildly for a moment, then regains her feet, all five of them... she seems to hiss as she spits a wad of poison at the charging Jelarthna * Lisl struggle to her feet, limping towards the spider as the laid-open leg closes and heals. "JEL!" <Jelarthna> yipe! ::dives to the side and rolls back onto his feet, just outside the pool of nastiness:: * Michelle stands hunched over, then starts trying to follow Jelarthna. * Lisl darts forward, grabbing the spider by a leg and hanging on while she slices her Claw through a joint. * Jelarthna holds his sword out carefully, advancing more slowly and watching the spider carefully for an opening * Crystal Spider wobbles and falls again, four working legs seeking to make mince out of the tenacious Lisl <Zoya> ::The spider's pause to spit at Jelarthna affords Zoya another opportunity to shoot her cold-ray at it, this time landing squarely on the side of its abdomen.:: * Jelarthna leaps forward, hacking at the legs attacking Lisl * Crystal Spider makes that high pitched wailing noise again, barely audible over the wind. A shattering of crystal drops from the spider's side and falls, sparkling, onto the sand * Lisl stands her ground and parries the Spider's wild jabs, seeking to get a slice in of her own while she can. One leg scrapes along her cheek, barely missing the eye and leaving a long scratch from ear to chin. <Lisl> The head! Zoya, see if you can hit the head!! * Michelle stops when it becomes obvious she isn't going to catch up to Jel without getting within melee range of the spider and instead just stands there concentrating. * Crystal Spider kicks out one last time, punching one long front leg through Lisl's stomach, to emerge dripping from her back. Then, it rolls back, twitches few times, and dies <Zoya> I'm trying, Lisl! It's a pretty small target, though! * Lisl makes a surprised gasp, dropping to her knees with her eyes open wide. * Zoya freezes for a moment, unsure whether the thing is really dead, then turns to Lisl. "Are you- In Erdian's name!" She rushes to Lisl's side. * Lisl coughs. * Michelle finally manages to pull herself up straight and walks over to Lisl. <Jelarthna> no! ::jumps up onto the spider and thrusts his sword into it's head, then rolls off and it and grabs Lisl:: * Bluestar stays out of the way, and looks around to make sure the spider's big brother isn't heading this way. <Zoya> ::considers Lisl's wound gravely:: Can you heal that, or do you need help? ::gestures at the approaching Michelle:: * Lisl 's voice is a bare whisper, and a drool of blood slides from the corner of her mouth. "Get it... out... please..." <Jelarthna> Lisl! ::pulls her carefully off of the spider's leg, wincing at the noises, and turning his head aside a bit:: * Tyl picks herself up out of the dust, brushes herself off and looks around. Dusty wanders up to get, almost friendly. With a shrug, she climbs onto the spider's back and he walks her over to rejoin the group <Zoya> ::shakes her head and speaks almost clinically:: Would've been cleaner to break the leg and pull it out from the back. * Lisl falls onto the sand, coughing as she tries to draw breath, until she finally manages to pull in a deep wheeze. <Zoya> ::looks around for other possible attackers, then decides to check on the brown-robed body:: <Michelle> You going to be alright Lisl? <Jelarthna> just rest, Lisl... ::looks up at Michelle and Zoya:: <Lisl> ::giving Zoya a dirty look:: Hole....::cough::...was big 'nough...::cough, cough:: ::nodding to Michelle and holding up two fingers. ::the man is quite dead, the blue-grey of his face, combined with several ragged bite marks prove mutely that he didn't die pleasantly:: * Michelle looks around and then wanders over to retrieve her staff. <Zoya> ::examines the body and its pockets:: I wonder how he stumbled into this thing. ::in the pockets Zoya finds some strange ceramic pieces, shaped like large flat circles, with score lines showing that the circles are meant to break into 10 even pieces.:: * Lisl groans as her vertebra shifts back into place with a wet "pop." * Tyl arrives, riding Dusty... <Zoya> :;examines the ceramic pieces:: Interesting... Wonder what these are for? <Tyl> Lisl, are you... going to be okay? <Jelarthna> ::shudders and offers Lisl the remaining water from her pierced waterskin:: <Lisl> Bad...luck? ::a final cough brings up some blood as the wound in her back closes, and she sits up, arm pressed against her stomach:: I'll be...fine, Tyl. Just give me a minute or two. ::accepts the water skin gratefully:: ::he is also carrying a large waterbag and a knapsack containing several yellow round things, looking like waxy spheres. There is some dried meat of an unidentifiable animal. He also has a knife, it's blade obsidian and the handle is bone:: <Michelle> Gang, I hate to say this, but I don't know how much time we have before that cock sucking asshole can cast his spell. It could be tonight for all I can tell. <Jelarthna> tonight? <Lisl> ::giving Jel a faint grin as she takes a long swallow of water:: You'll tell me if this leaks out below, right? <Jelarthna> er... yeah. * Jelarthna looks a little uncomfortable <Michelle> Could be tonight, could be twenty years from now. This world has multiple moons. I'm afraid I'm going to be at about half power until I can synchronize with them. * Zoya examines everything, then shrugs and takes the dead man's possessions. She shows the ceramic pieces and one wax globe to the others. "Any idea what these might be?" <Lisl> ::grins a little wider at Jel's discomfort:: I was teasing, Jel, I'll be fine. <Jelarthna> I hope so. <Zoya> ::glances at Michelle:: Really? I thought the book seemed to indicate a single moon. Is there one that seems more prominent that the rest? * Bluestar takes one of the waxy globes and sniffs it carefully. <Jelarthna> ::looks up at Michelle:: aside from that, are you okay? <Michelle> The ceramics might be some form of currency. A few hundred years ago on my world some nations scored metal disks in a similar fashion so you could break them up into smaller denominations. <Bluestar> Smells like honey. * Lisl finishes the remaining water in the skin, and does, indeed, seem to look lots better. She's still covered in blood, but none of it seems to be flowing anymore. <Zoya> ::eyes the ceramic doubtfully:: Could be. <Lisl> Beeswax? * Michelle looks at the sun high in the sky, "Couldn't tell you Zoya. Maybe tonight." * Bluestar moves into the shade. "Still... as fascinating as these artefacts are, it might not be a bad idea to get a move on, as soon as we can." <Lisl> ::sparing the knife a glance:: Maybe they're metal-poor here? <Zoya> ::sighs:: Well, then, I guess Bluestar's right. Let's get moving. The sooner we can get out of here, the better. <Lisl> ::gives Bluestar a sour look:: I'm working on it. It's not like I *tried* to get myself gutted. <Jelarthna> ::finally stands and looks around, somewhat satisfied that everyone seems to be okay, and moves to retrieve his sword:: <Michelle> I'll be fine once I have a chance to adjust. I hate multiple moons. They play such havoc with my body. * Bluestar looks down at something by his feet. "Oh, dear... this doesn't look pleasant." <Bluestar> ::to Lisl:: "Take your time. I understand being run through absolutely wrecks someone's day." <Zoya> ::looks at Michelle sympathetically:: Yes, I suppose so. <Zoya> ::looks over at Bluestar's discovery:: <Jelarthna> ::cranes over to look:: What? ::you see a large, oval shaped blob of something looking sort of like spun glass:: * Bluestar is looking at a three foot high, oval, spun glass ball. <Lisl> ::muttering:: Easier than being skewered by that rapier wit.... <Zoya> That's not what I think it is, is it? <Jelarthna> egg sack? * Lisl heaves herself to her feet, still holding her stomach, and moves over to see what the fuss is about. <Bluestar> It's definitely not an object d'arte. I'd guess an egg sac, but biology isn't my field. * Tyl and Dusty trail along behind Lisl... * Michelle walks over to the ball and holds a hand about an inch above it. * Zoya pulls her wand back out. "I think we're better safe than sorry." She aims the wand at the sack. "Stand back, guys. This might explode." <Jelarthna> Tyl, are you okay? <Lisl> Dusty? You're the expert in matters arachnid... <Jelarthna> sorry about all the jumping and rolling... * Michelle rises and sighs, "It's an egg sack." Michelle moves as quickly as she can out of Zoya's range. * Bluestar clears the field, too. <Tyl> I'm fine, dear. Interesting thing about being six inches short... Gravity doesn't seem to have quite so much of an effect as normal * Jelarthna grins * Lisl limps backward, straightening a little as she does so. <Zoya> ::waits for the others to move out of the way, then subjects the sac to some extreme temperature differential:: * Jelarthna watches with interest ::the egg-sac cracks, shudders, then bursts into pieces. Weakly, several dozen tiny crystal spiders (well, about two inches around) climb out of the sac:: * Zoya begins carefully stomping baby spiders. * Bluestar looks over at Zoya, and begins stomping spiders. <Baby Spider> ::crack:: <Baby Spider> ::crunch:: <Baby Spider> ::snap:: <Baby Spider> ::splurt:: * Michelle stomps any spiders That get near her, but doesn't actively pursue them. * Lisl frowns as a baby spider reaches her foot and tries to sting through her boot, singeing her big toe a little. "Hey! Talk about insult to injury!" She raises her foot and squishes the little bugger. * Lisl stands up straight and stretches experimentally, wincing a little as the new tissues stretch over her stomach. <Lisl> Ahh...much better. ::starts to systematically destroy the remaining fragments of web:: Don't want to leave this around to cause a problem later....hey... * Lisl moves over to a shadowed corner of rock, absently slicing through the web before reaching down. <Zoya> What's That? <Lisl> Looks like the big sparkly liked little sparklies...::walking back to the group and holding out a double-handful of gemstones for inspection:: <Zoya> ::eyes Lisl's find:: Hmm. Well, maybe it ate them, too. * Michelle glances at the gems, "If you want to carry them Lisl you're welcome to them. Per...Actually, we don't know how long we're going to be here. It probably wouldn't hurt to hold on to the gems so we can exchange them for local currency." <Lisl> ::shrugs:: Consider it a group fund. ::eyeing mini-Tyl slyly, and grinning:: Or at your size, Tyl, a nest egg... <Zoya> I hope we won't have That much dealing with the natives. If this fellow here ::points at the body:: is any indication, we're going to be powerfully strange-looking to these folk. <Jelarthna> ::shakes his head:: That's bad, Lisl... <Jelarthna> ::looks thoughtful:: I wonder if there are elves here? <Tyl> Ha. Ha ha <Michelle> You get used to it Zoya. Though it will make sneaking up on this bastard hard. * Tyl looks up at Jel * Jelarthna picks up Tyl gently <Tyl> There are sort of elves here. I guess. They call themselves elves, but I never saw anything like them before * Lisl unslings her pack, inspecting the hole the spider put in it, shrugging, and putting the gems in a pocket on the other side. <Jelarthna> could I pass for one, or are the differences too great? <Tyl> Very tall, exceedingly thin... and fast. <Lisl> Fast? Like, runners? <Tyl> ::shakes her head:: they're at least six to seven feet tall... <Zoya> ::to Michelle:: Get used to what? Being strange-looking? Sure, if I was planning to move here. But I'd much rather sneak in, get Tyl and her sister, and get out without having to deal with anyone. * Jelarthna blinks in surprise <Jelarthna> I think I agree with Zoya. But we may not have a choice... <Tyl> and there are others... half-dwarves, the size of humans, but much much wider. <Michelle> ::To Zoya:: Agreed. So anyone know which way we need to go? <Jelarthna> half dwarves? <Zoya> ::glances at Lisl:: You said you thought you could track... <Lisl> ::blinks:: Well. ::brushing sand out of her hair:: No problem being mistaken for those, then. Anyone else with pointy ears? ::flipping one of her own ears forward:: <Tyl> Half dwarf, half man. All muscle and bad temper <Michelle> Sound like Lisl alright. * Jelarthna laughs <Lisl> ::nods:: If there's a scent, I can track it...give me a sec. Hey now! ::shooting Michelle a dirty look:: <Tyl> They're called Muls. Lisl wouldn't pass for one. They don't have any hair. This is a very strange place <Lisl> Tyl...don't take this the wrong way, but do you mind if I sniff you a sec? * Jelarthna sits down and pulls off his boots carefully, hissing slightly as he examines the cuts crisscrossing them * Michelle concentrates and the cuts she received from the spider web slowly heal shut. <Tyl> ::points at her chest:: I don't think this me is going to smell like me... I made this me out of clay... it's not really alive... just a vessel for my spirit <Jelarthna> ::mutters:: wish my boots were tougher than that... <Lisl> ::taps a finger against her skull:: Silly me. Good point. Hang on...::closes her eyes, furrowing her brow as she thinks for a moment:: * Jelarthna critically examines his boots <Tyl> ::grumbles:: It's a very badly put together piece of work. I'm not really alive in this form, but if this form takes an injury, it'll come back to the real me... I need to work on it some, but I was in a hurry. <Jelarthna> Tyl, you did a very fine job, love. <Lisl> Okay. I think I got it. And heavens know this place isn't like the Town Square or anything.... <Jelarthna> ::softly:: not good... <Lisl> ::wanders out into the desert a little ways, clear of the battle scene, and shifts to wolf-shape, beginning a wide circle around the portal. <Tyl> ::to Jel:: She really is a nice looking wolf. I've never actually seen her in That form before * Jelarthna pulls some cloth from his pouch and wets it, cleaning the cuts on his feet and gritting his teeth <Zoya> Jelarthna, do you think you'd better have Michelle take care of That for you now? There's no telling how far we'll need to walk. * Michelle heads over to Jelarthna, "Do you want me to take care of That?" <Jelarthna> ::looks up and makes an "ooh" noise:: yes, you're right.. I haven't either. <Jelarthna> ::smiles at Zoya and Michelle:: Only as long as everyone else is taken care of. * Michelle passes her hand over Jelarthna's foot, the familiar blue glow bathing both and healing the cuts as the hand passes over them. <Jelarthna> ahhhh... thanks! * Lisl pauses and dips her head to the sand to the west, trotting a few paces out and repeating it before looking over her shoulder once and starting westward at a dog-trot. <Michelle> Looks like Lisl found it. * Jelarthna wraps the cloths around his feet and pulls his boots back on, then stands and takes some testing steps <Zoya> Let's go, then. ::heads out to follow Lisl:: * Bluestar pulls the hood of his cloak up, and begins to follow Lisl. <Jelarthna> I hope these will last... ::nods:: Okay, let's go. * Michelle heads off after Lisl, occasionally supporting her weight on her staff. <Jelarthna> ::taps Michelle on the shoulder:: let me know if you need help, okay? ::it's hot. There's very little shade. The wind brushes particles of sand into your face without cooling you off:: <Bluestar> ::trudge, trudge, trudge:: * Lisl checks over her shoulder occasionally to make sure all are following, sneezing at the dust-filled breeze. <Zoya> ::walks steadily behind Lisl, looking around at the scenery, such as it is, every so often.:: ::the desert is sort of rolling dunes, with soft sand underfoot, which makes walking tiresome. There are a few piles of rocks, a couple of shriveled looking plants, and occasionally large insects scurry out in the dunes:: * Bluestar sips some water, keeps walking. * Lisl occasionally nips at an insect, but otherwise sticks to the trail. ::the desert is hot and unrelenting. The sun shines fiercely in the sky. The wind pushes scouring sand into your clothes, eyes and hair:: ::in the distance you see a dark, pyramid-like building:: * Bluestar keeps his hood up and trudges through the sand. * Lisl lifts her head, yips once, and continues. <Jelarthna> ::looks up and squints against the brightness:: Is that it? ::small stubborn looking plants straggle up around rocks and occasionally you see small lizards or insects:: * Bluestar barely tilts his head upward. "Yes. Let's keep going. Hopefully there will be less sand inside. I'm chafing in places I'd rather not contemplate." * Lisl snaps at a lizard. * Michelle follows along. <Zoya> ::trudge trudge trudge:: * Lisl looks over her shoulder at Bluestar with a doggy-grin, before dropping back abreast of Jel and nudging his waterbag with her head. * Jelarthna grins at Lisl and opens the waterbag, then squirts some into Lisl's mouth * Lisl swallows, sticks her tongue out to pant for a moment, and lopes forward a little faster, wagging her tail. * Jelarthna laughs lightly and closes the waterskin, putting it back on his belt as he continues to glide forward over the sand. <Jelarthna> How far is it? I'm having some trouble judging distances over all of this sand. ::the building seems to grow almost imperceptibly closer as you walk:: * Lisl circles around behind Jel, nipping him lightly in the backside and jogging forward again. <Jelarthna> ::jumps:: Hey now! * Jelarthna grins at the wagging tail trotting ahead and shakes his head in amusement ::the sun slowly begins its descent towards the horizon. No moons rise in the sky:: <Jelarthna> moonless night... <Zoya> ::glances up at the building:: Erdian's breath, that thing is huge. * Bluestar looks at the horizon and frowns. "Let's pick up the pace a bit. I have a hunch it'd be a bad idea to be too deep into this desert once the sun goes down." * Bluestar has some water and eases into a slow jog. * Lisl breaks into a trot, ranging ahead again, scouting forward. * Michelle surveys the skies, "I could be wrong, but I believe both moons will be new tonight. Meaning that he's going to cast the spell tonight." <Zoya> ::pauses for a drink and takes off after Bluestar:: Well, then, let's not dilly-dally! ::the building is constructed from alternating layers of black and blood red rock. Two huge obsidian statues rise from the entrance, standing perhaps fifty feet high. The statues depict, in terrifying realism, a humanoid dragon-creature with vestigial wings and a long, barbed tail:: <Jelarthna> Then we definitely need to increase our pace... Is anyone going to have trouble keeping up? ::slowly increases his pace to match the others:: * Michelle also has a drink and takes off after the group, having some trouble keeping up. * Jelarthna puts his arm around Michelle and helps her along * Michelle pants, "So now what?" <Jelarthna> ::grins at Michelle:: We get in, get Tyl and Cwal, and get out. <Michelle> I meant...HOW...are we going to get in. ::Points at the statues:: Those things are probably golems. <Zoya> I don't care for the look of those statues. You don't suppose they're at all like gargoyles or anything, do you? <Jelarthna> hmmm... maybe Bluestar or Lisl will be able to tell without alerting them? * Michelle puts her hands behind her head and slowly walks around in a small circle trying to slow her breathing and pulse. * Lisl pricks up her ears, trotting back to the group with one ear up and one down in what looks like a quizzical manner. <Jelarthna> Lisl... can you tell if the statues ahead are golems or gargoyles or something of the sort without alerting them if they are? <Bluestar> Can one of you see if they're magical? I'm trying to conserve my strength. <Jelarthna> Zoya, want me to handle that? It's a pretty small drain. * Lisl tilts her head to one side, her tongue lolling out as she pants. After a moment she shakes her head. <Zoya> ::fixes Jel with a hard look:: No, Jelarthna, I don't. You need to save every drop you've got to get us home; there's no telling how hard that'll be. ::She mutters under her breath and pushes a thin tendril of magic carefully toward the statues:: * Michelle closes her eyes and cocks her head to one side as if listening to something. <Jelarthna> ::reaches down to scratch Lisl's head:: That's okay, thanks. ::grins at Zoya:: Understood. ::watches her and the statues closely:: * Lisl raises an eyebrow at Jel, but accepts the scratch. * Lisl head-butts the waterbag again. <Zoya> ::lets out a slow breath:: They're magical. The whole damn *thing* is magical, but there's some different kind of magic connected with those statues. We might want to look for a back door. * Jelarthna gives Lisl another squirt of water * Bluestar eyes the statues. "Okay. We can move away from the statues and look for a secret entrance. But with the amount of area we'd have to cover... I don't know what our chances are like." * Lisl swallows the squirt neatly, pushes her head against Jel's leg in a stay-there gesture, and takes off at a gallop, giving the statues a wide berth as she starts a circle of the temple. * Michelle nods her head in agreement, "Ideas? If Adam or I can touch that thing we can scan the structure and eventually have a blue print of the whole thing. Or Adam could scan the ground to look for tunnels underneath us. I'm afraid that's the best we can do." <Zoya> Tunnels might be useful, actually. I'd be willing to bet the captives are being kept under ground. <Jelarthna> Let's give Lisl a minute to do a circuit of the thing. * Tyl peeks out from Jel's pocket and looks around <Jelarthna> ::grins:: Have a nice nap, love? <Bluestar> That's not a bad idea, Michelle, but I don't think we should attempt it right here. Maybe around the corner, if Lisl comes up empty handed. <Tyl> I'm okay... it's hot. <Jelarthna> How long would that take, Michelle? ::looks up at the sky:: I'm starting to get worried about time... <Zoya> ::drily:: That happens in the desert. * Jelarthna offers the open waterskin to chibi-Tyl * Michelle shrugs, "I don't know. Depends on how lucky we get." * Tyl looks at it dubiously. <Tyl> I might drown in there. An odd thing to do in the desert, I'm sure, but I think I'll skip the experience <Jelarthna> okay hon. ::puts the waterskin away and looks thoughtfully at the statues:: * Lisl appears around the other corner of the building and trots towards the group, looking over her shoulder once or twice warily. <Jelarthna> Everything okay? what did you find? * Jelarthna looks in the direction Lisl came from <Bluestar> If you found something, lead on and we'll follow. Otherwise, sit down for a sec and we'll figure out Plan B. * Tyl tilts her head to the side, as if she's listening to something... * Lisl circles around behind the party and shifts back to half-elven form. * Lisl works her jaw and spits a lizard bone out of her mouth. "Ick." <Lisl> Okay, there *is* a back door. But... <Tyl> There's something going on... I hear drums <Jelarthna> but...? <Jelarthna> drums? <Zoya> ::raises an eyebrow:: What'd you eat it for if... Let's move faster, then. What's going on? * Jelarthna grips his sword lightly <Lisl> It's barred, and guarded by a pair of bald ugly dudes. Still, with this group, it's probably better than the front door. <Lisl> Drums? ::cocks an ear:: <Zoya> Bring on the "ugly dudes", then. ::in the distance, you can hear staccato beats:: <Bluestar> Back door it is. Quick kills would seem to be in order. Let's hustle. * Michelle follows the group, double checking her grip on her staff. * Zoya follows Lisl's lead, already beginning a spell under her breath. * Jelarthna moves quickly and quietly behind the others, watching the surroundings for other dangers * Lisl nods and jogs back the way she came, trying to walk silently. ::the sun slips below the horizon, the last glimmerings of pink and red sky reflecting against the sand, making the dunes look soaked with blood:: * Jelarthna looks for a moment at the setting sun with concern, then for slightly longer at the scene <Jelarthna> amazing how nature always has it's moments of beauty, no matter how bleak it may otherwise seem... <Lisl> Ptah. Everything here makes me think of blood and killing. ::pauses for a moment of thought:: Yeah, that's nature for you. <Michelle> That's because the purpose of art is to hold a mirror up to nature. And quite frankly, there isn't a mirror big enough. <Jelarthna> ::smiles at the comments and tears his attention away from the scene:: * Bluestar snorts. "I just want my wife back." <Zoya> Yes, by all means, let's get on with it. <Lisl> Cut the chatter. They're just up ahead. ::as you turn around the side of the building, you see two well-muscled bald men guarding the door. They are armed with some sort of small shields strapped to their forearms, with long bone blades protruding about two feet past the end of their hands:: * Jelarthna moves quietly slightly closer and looks back at the others, pointing to the one on the left and then himself * Tyl climbs out of Jel's pocket and onto Dusty's back. <Tyl> I think I'll get out of the way, shall I? ::very softly:: * Michelle nods to Jelarthna and tightens her grip on her staff. * Lisl nods, and calls her Claws. "Two can play at that game...they may have reach on me, but *mine* are Ginsu." She grins evilly. * Jelarthna looks to the others to make sure everyone is ready <Zoya> ::whispering:: Ready? ::She gestures and whispers a few quiet syllables, and a sudden whirlwind descends from the sky, tangling the two guards for a moment in its fury.:: Go! * Lisl darts forward on the balls of her feet, heading for the one on the right. * Jelarthna leaps forward, his blade drawn somewhere in mid-leap and moving deceptively quickly to the legs of the one on the left * Bluestar draws his cloak around him and speeds toward the door. * Mul-guards screams a war cry and brings the Turtle blade down hard across Jelarthna's sword, blocking the blow * Michelle points her staff at the guard Jel's fighting and an argent projectile streaks from the staff striking the guard in the chest. * Mul-guards reaches into his tunic, removes something small and flings it at Michelle. * Bluestar begins calmly fidgeting with the lock on the door, half-turned to not completely lose sight of the combat behind him. * Lisl aims her shoulder at the right guard's midriff, Claws out for a stab at his stomach. * Michelle tries to jump out of the way, loses her footing in the sand and falls to a heap, the object passing overhead. * Jelarthna moves his sword almost lazily into a series of feints leading to a strong high attack, watching the Mul's movements closely and attempting to study how the odd weapons are attached to his arms <Mul-guards>: ::one of the guards goes down under Lisl's attack:: * Zoya dissipates the windstorm. "We've got a time limit here, Jelarthna!" <Mul-guards>: ::the other gets in a good blow at Jelarthna's head, striking him with the shield part of his weapon across the back of the head:: * Michelle climbs back onto her feet. * Lisl pins her opponent and guts him efficiently, making sure he won't be getting back up. <Zoya> ::Several blue bolts fly unerringly from Zoya's fingertips to the guard, scoring burnmarks:: * <Mul-guards> screams in agony, then thrusts down at Jelarthna with the turtle blade * Jelarthna rolls away, keeping his blade steady enough to cut one of the guard's legs * Mul-guards falls over, clutching at his wound * Lisl growls, and leaps at Jel's opponent from the side. <Lisl> Oooops....! ::turns her dive into a tumble, somersaulting over the prone body:: * Zoya rushes forward, ready to enter the pyramid as soon as the guard is taken care of. * Michelle starts walking towards the door figuring combat will be over by the time she gets there. * Jelarthna gets to his feet and staggers for a moment, aiming a quick blow to the fallen guard's head * Lisl stands and dusts herself off. "TOOK you long enough. Fop." She grins at Jel. <Mul-guards>: ::his head splits like an over-ripe watermelon, splatter brains and other unpleasant things all over the place:: * Bluestar gestures to the door, which is now open a crack "Everyone, inside please." * Zoya steps up to the door and begins checking it for magical wards and/or locks, muttering, "He *can't* have left the entrance guarded by just those two..." <Jelarthna> Sorry about that. Got a little distracted by the exotic weaponry, I think. ::rubs his head and enters the door cautiously:: <Lisl> But I haven't had lunch...::still grinning as she slips through the door after Zoya:: <Bluestar> There was a poison needle in the lock... it's not a problem. * Michelle adjusts a ring she's wearing then follows Lisl into the compound. <Jelarthna> ::nods to Michelle:: You okay? <Zoya> ::glances askance at Bluestar:: If you say so... ::steps through carefully:: <Lisl> Well, we know he doesn't have any undead...we would have woken them by now with this racket. ::you hear a deep thrumming in accompaniment with the staccato drum beats, the floor seems to vibrate with it:: <Michelle> As okay as I can be without having synchronized with the moons yet. <Zoya> ::shivers:: Let's find them and get out of here. I don't like the sound of that one bit. <Bluestar> Right. Let's head in. * Bluestar does the hustle. <Lisl> ::snorts:: Sounds like a luau. * Bluestar pulls up short, stopping abruptly. "Stop!" <Jelarthna> ::puts a comforting hand on Michelle's shoulder and nods to the others, advancing inside:: * Jelarthna stops * Zoya stops. * Lisl stops. * Bluestar begins examining the floor. "There just *would* be something else..." <Zoya> ::glances around nervously, then looks back at Bluestar:: What? <Michelle> Zoya, was there anything in that spellbook about needing a lot of plants for this spell? <Jelarthna> dangerous plants, I take it? * Lisl glances at Michelle. "That psycho-weed, or whatever they called it? The stuff Tyl was taking?" <Michelle> Don't know, but a hell of an awful lot of them. Particularly for being in the middle of a desert, inside a structure that doesn't appear to get much sunlight. <Zoya> ::frowns, thinking:: Nothing specific. But the mages on this world drain their magic from life - it seems to affect plants, especially. If there's a big spell happening, he'll need some plants to give him an energy-boost before he starts with the sacrifices. ::a gong rings through the structure, shimmering and menacing:: <Bluestar> Okay, everyone back up. ::points at stone slab floor:: We have to jump over this stone, or the ceiling comes down on our heads. It's only a dwarf's height or so, so everyone should be fine. Just be careful. <Zoya> ::backs up and mutters under her breath some more.:: * Lisl nods, shifts into wolf form, and takes a flying leap over the slab. <Michelle> What I wouldn't give to be able to levitate right now. * Bluestar backs up, runs, and leaps over the slab. <Jelarthna> need some help, Michelle? * Lisl turns and watches the others, grinning wolfishly. <Zoya> ::grins at Michelle:: Grab hold. I think my spell is enough for both of us. ::offers Michelle a hand:: * Bluestar drifts down the corridor a bit, examining the walls, floors, and ceilings. <Jelarthna> ::grins at Zoya and waits for her to go across:: * Michelle takes Zoya's hand. * Zoya tightens her grip on Michelle's hand, and jumps, pulling Michelle up into the air with her. With both of them, they don't fly, but they do float over the indicated space with ease. <Bluestar> Jelarthna, come here. ::points at some swirling, glowing shapes on the wall:: Can you break these, please. * Lisl shifts back into half-elven form. * Jelarthna looks closely at the runes at then over at Zoya. <Jelarthna> I think you'd better take care of this, Zoya. * Zoya steps over to the runes and gives them an examination. * Zoya frowns, then lifts a hand in front of a rune, and stares at it until it goes dark. One by one, she does the same for the remaining runes. <Zoya> ::When she's finished, she's panting softly with effort.:: I... knew those... guards couldn't... be it... * Jelarthna watches Zoya with concern <Lisl> You alright? ::offers Zoya a waterskin:: <Jelarthna> she's probably going to need a minute... * Zoya takes the waterskin and drinks gratefully. "He's strong. You keep saving your magical strength. If you have to break his shields to get us out of here, you're going to need all of it." * Jelarthna nods grimly <Zoya> ::hands back the waterskin:: I can't stop to rest; there isn't time. Let's go. Bluestar? Which way? * Lisl nods, and cocks her head for a moment to listen, trying to localize the sound of the drumming in this vault. <Lisl> Michelle? Didn't you say Adam could map this place? * Bluestar concentrates, "Tyl and Cwallie are above us. Third level." <Jelarthna> ::nods:: Could you or he do it while walking, or would it take all of your concentration? * Jelarthna grins <Lisl> ::nods forward:: The sound is coming from that way...up and towards the center. :a blood curdling wail comes from below your feet, a high note of absolute fear and agony:: <Michelle> Actually, assuming the drums are in the same location as the spell I can get us there by tracking the sound backward. Just keeping going this way for now. I'll tell you when it's time to turn. * Bluestar moves ahead, taking point, checking everything out. <Lisl> Well, I think we know where the slaves are. * Jelarthna shudders a little and looks grimly ahead ::a second wail, lower pitched than the first, emits from the same location. The gong sounds again, shimmering:: <Lisl> Tyl and Cwal first...they're his key, if he needs blood relatives. * Lisl sets her jaw and starts counting screams. "A thousand, you said, right Zoya?" <Jelarthna> and quickly... * Tyl coughs suddenly and a roil of black smoke appears where she was. When it clears, the small Tyl is nothing more than a black piece of rock * Bluestar says nothing, but picks up the pace. <Michelle> Time for the direct approach? <Zoya> The *strength* of a thousand. It could actually be fewer individuals. ::hurries after Bluestar:: * Jelarthna lets out a small cry of despair and follows Bluestar quickly * Lisl curses and follows, glancing over her shoulder to cover the rear. * Michelle brings up the rear. ::another scream, definitely a woman, echoes through the hallways:: * Zoya shudders. "Let's hope we find them soon. He's not wasting any time." <Lisl> ::muttering:: Where's the fire exit when you need it? <Jelarthna> ::softly:: you better not touch them, you monster... * Bluestar continues to hurry along the corridor, getting more impatient with every passing moment. ::you come to a set of stairs that split to the left and right, leading both up and down. Grotesque bas reliefs are carved along the walls, picturing scenes of torture and death:: <Michelle> Well Adam could start smashing walls to get us there faster, but it would destroy the element of surprise. * Bluestar takes the stairs up. * Lisl eyeing Jel narrowly. "Just remember, sport, be careful...if he kills *you,* too, he's that much closer to his quota. * Jelarthna nods grimly <Jelarthna> I know... <Jelarthna> and that strands you all here as well. * Jelarthna follows Bluestar up the stairs quickly * Michelle gets a puzzles look on her face, "I wonder how many we'd count as?" * Lisl shoulders her way forward, flaring her nostrils in both directions on the steps. ::a scream, strange and insectile, rings through the hallway:: * Michelle follows the group up the stairs. * Zoya spares a quick glance at the other directions, then follows Bluestar. ::the second level is of red stone, with a rich, sweet smell of incense floating on the air:: * Jelarthna sniffs the air distastefully * Bluestar barrels down the hallway. * Zoya follows Bluestar with all speed. * Michelle races after Bluestar. * Lisl wrinkles her nose. "She's definitely up there...and she's got company." * Jelarthna mutters something elvish and takes off after Bluestar ::another shriek, this one deep and male:: <Lisl> Watch your mouth, kiddo. ::shifts into full-wolf and races ahead of the two men:: ::you come to another set of stairs at the end of the corridor, leading upwards. the bas-relief carvings are of dragons rampaging... there's something decidedly creepy about them:: <Jelarthna> not liking this one bit... still up? * Bluestar wheels about and hurries up the stairs. * Michelle stumbles to a halt, "Zoya?!?" * Lisl nods and takes the stairs in bounds. <Zoya> Not a lot of choice... ::turns in the act of going up the stairs:: Michelle? What's wrong? * Michelle shrugs, "If it's a trap they already set it off." Hurries after the group. <Zoya> Come on, then... ::waits a moment for Michelle to catch up and takes the rear:: <Jelarthna> ::pauses for a moment to watch ZOYA and Michelle in concern, then casts a worried look upstairs and stays with the ladies:: ::the third tier is black again, and dark... from the end of the corridor, you see a strange greenish light:: <Zoya> ::points up:: Jelarthna, stop that and go up there to help. I'm more than capable of holding the rear. * Bluestar rips his short sword from his sheath and strides determinedly down the corridor. * Michelle moves as fast as she can to catch up with Bluestar and Lisl. <Jelarthna> ::looks back and forth between Zoya and Michelle, then hugs them both quickly and runs full tilt up after Bluestar and Lisl <Zoya> ::mutters to Michelle:: Sheesh, you'd think *we* were the sacrifices... * Bluestar suddenly grimaces, makes a rude gesture at the ceiling, but doesn't break his stride. "It knows we're coming." <Zoya> ::continues to hold the rear, one hand glowing a bilious green and half-raised to attack:: * Lisl bounds down the hallway. <Jelarthna> ::nods:: So direct it is... ::bounds after Lisl:: ::you enter into a dome-like structure. Large trees grow abundantly, filling the area with a soft green light that seems to come from their leaves and branches:: * Zoya sighs softly in the (albeit only slightly) cooler and more humid air. * Bluestar looks about quickly for the others. * Jelarthna is beside Bluestar, sword ready * Lisl takes a deep breath, sparing a wondering glance at the stately giants. A few breaths more, and her lips peel back from her teeth in a snarl, hackles rising as she races on. * Michelle runs up to one of the trees, presses her head against it and starts whispering. * Jelarthna springs after Lisl * Bluestar charges to the center of the room. * Zoya hangs back, keeping an eye on Michelle. * Michelle rushes after the fighters. * Zoya follows. ::the drum beat increases and there are several shrieks at once:: <Michelle> Try and keep the fire spells to a minimum. * Jelarthna nods and keeps running * Tyl screams, not in pain but in terror and disgust. <Zoya> That's her! ::suddenly a tree near you wilts and turns to grey ash inside of a few seconds:: * Michelle screams in pain and collapses to the ground face first. * Jelarthna shies away from the tree and sprints towards Tyl's scream <Bluestar> [face plant?] * Lisl spares the tree a glance, leaping over the ash-pile in a bound. <Zoya> Damn it! ::She gestures violently for the others to keep going and kneels by Michelle to help her:: We'll catch up! Go! <Lisl> [I guess it was an ash tree.] <Jelarthna> [you're fired, Karen. :P] <Lisl> [oak-kay.] ::as you enter the clearing, you see a tall elf, taller by far than any elf should be, nearly nine feet, standing over a small opening in the floor. Near him, bound with cords of shimmering orange flame, are Cwal, Tyl, and an older elven woman:: <Jelarthna> [I'm not rooting for you anymore!] <Bluestar> [leaf it be, guys] <Lisl> [Aww...maple I can change your mind if I turn over a new leaf?] <Lisl> [drat] <Michelle> Go on Zoya. However he's draining the plants, he's draining me through my connection to them. That's a hell of an awful lot of power at his disposal. Certainly more than he expected to have. You have to finish him quickly. ::Michelle manages to get out between gritted teeth.:: ::the elf points into the opening, a stream of what looks like glowing sand extends from his finger. A chorus of screams echoes through the room. Another tree turns to ashes:: <Zoya> [I'm out of my elm-ent here...] * Bluestar charges. * Michelle screams again. * Jelarthna charges also, splitting away from Bluestar and approach from another side <Narrator> [willow stop that?] <Jelarthna> [::weeping quietly::] <Lisl> [Pining away, Shbee?] <Narrator> [I'm going to pine away here... drat] * Zoya scoops up Michelle. "We'll have to leave too quickly to leave you here. I can put you to sleep if you prefer, but I'm carrying you with me." <Narrator> [well, this is a real tree-t] <Zoya> [Wish I'd thought of that one forest.] * Lisl swings to Bluestar's other side, aiming for the tied-up victims. <Bluestar> [no branching out] <Jelarthna> [There's gonna be fall-out from that one...] <Bluestar> [That was acorny one.] <Lisl> [Pulp fiction?] <Jelarthna> [like something a dogwood come up with?] * Nilgarthor turns quickly, spraying heated sand at Bluestar. His face is altered and alien. Thick greenish fluid is leaking from his eyes, nose and mouth. <Lisl> [oooh...Shbee, you're such a sap] <Michelle> Damn it Zoya. I know what I'm talking about. ::Each word is a struggle as Michelle tries to bring the pain under control.:: <Nilgarthor> [wood you please knock it off?] * Bluestar slides to the ground, burying himself in the depths of his cloak. A yell of anger and pain is quickly cut off. * Jelarthna hits Nil's's flank, thrusting quickly and efficiently <Jelarthna> [I will knot!] <Lisl> [Careful, she's twigged ya, Shbee.] * Nilgarthor screams in rage, biting at Jelarthna with wickedly pointed fangs. Green slime drips from his mouth. * Zoya continues running to catch up, still carrying Michelle. "So do I." She bursts into the room just as Nilgarthor turns to face Bluestar and stops in horror. <Nilgarthor> [Bud I have a game to run here!] * Lisl rushes to the victims, tearing at the fiery bonds with her teeth. * Jelarthna jumps back, sleeve ripping as teeth skitter off of gleaming elven chain <Lisl> [Fir sure] <Nilgarthor> [you are not making yourself poplar around here, Lisl] * Bluestar bursts out of the cloak and aims his sword at Nilgarthor's exposed side. <Zoya> ::carefully drops Michelle without tearing her eyes from Nilgarthor:: Stay close. ::Her hand begins glowing green again, and she begins to angle around the... thing.:: <Zoya> [Ju-niper call anymore...] <Lisl> [Ooooh, I'm shaking like a leaf, KT] * Nilgarthor whirls again, slashing out with claws at Jelarthna * Jelarthna hops to the side evasively, putting the beast more between Bluestar and himself, sword somehow there to deflect the claws * Tyl struggles out of her bonds with Lisl's help * Lisl howls with pain, mouth blistering, and shift to half-were, attacking the bonds with teeth and Claws. * Michelle lies were Zoya dropped her, eyes closed and whispering something under her breath. <Nilgarthor> [stop needle-ing me, Lisl] <Nilgarthor> [I just cone stand it anymore] <Zoya> ::Carefully watching Nilgarthor, Zoya approaches the captives:: Lisl - let me try. You keep an eye on that thing. <Lisl> [My, that was a l-arch comment....] <Zoya> [You're barking up the wrong tree...] <Lisl> ::working her mouth:: Zoya...does it matter how the victims die? They have to be killed ritually, right? * Nilgarthor roars, then stops, focusing on Bluestar <Zoya> I assume so, but I'm not actually certain. I might be, as long as they die in the right place - here - at the right time - tonight - they'll suffice. <Zoya> ::looks up from the fiery bonds:: So be careful. <Lisl> Hells. * Jelarthna darts forward almost instantly, thrusting quickly into Nilgarthor's back, then quickly moves back and to the side to avoid counterattack * Michelle adjusts her ring and vanishes. <Lisl> I guess I'll have to concentrate on that bastard, then. Jel, Bluestar...clear off! ::reaching for something on her belt:: * Bluestar slows down, focusing on Nilgarthor. He develops a slight facial tic which fades away quickly. <Nilgarthor> ::the gong sounds again. Nilgarthor screams, a weird ripping noise starts and suddenly a long, spiked tail grows. Nilgarthor whips the tail around, lashing at Jelarthna's legs:: <Lisl> ::murmuring something to Zoya:: <Jelarthna> ::jumps back at Lisl's cry, barely avoiding the newly grown tail in surprise:: Whoa! * Nilgarthor points into the hole in the floor. Super-heated sand flows into the hole. There are dozens of shrieks. * Zoya pulls a wand out of her sleeve and kneels beside Tyl. "This is probably going to hurt, but I think it'll free you. Try to hold still..." She holds the end of the wand only a fingers width from the bonds. * Adam suddenly appears where Michelle was lying. He rushes towards Nilgarthor apparently intent on bear hugging him. As he moves forward his skin turns grey and his features become sharper and more angular. * Lisl pulls the thing from her belt, lobbing it high at the tall elf-lizard...it looks suspiciously like a water balloon made out of sheep's bladder. <Zoya> ::A murmured word sends a crystal blue spark from the wand to Tyl's bonds, and they crackle loudly as they turn to ice. With a well-placed shove, they shatter.:: * Tyl leaps free from her bonds with a triumphant scream <Jelarthna> Adam, look out! ::jumps back further as the bladder arcs into Nilgie:: * Zoya glances over her shoulder and barks a sharp word, pointing toward Lisl's missile. A thin bolt of fire races toward it... * Bluestar glares at Nilgarthor, gets a cruel smirk on his face, and twists one of his hands. The crude loincloth that Nilgarthor had about his waist suddenly violently explodes. Curiously, the only one struck is Nilgarthor. <Lisl> Hey, Nilgie! How 'bout some kick in the head! * Nilgarthor roars in anger and pain. With a vicious swipe he whirls, his claws sinking into the older elven woman still bound. <Tyl> MOTHER! ::screams, falling to her knees in shock and horror:: * Nilgarthor gets struck with flaming mule-kick... he blazes briefly then leaps into the hole in the middle of the room. * Tyl rushes to the elven woman, clutching at her desperately. <Lisl> SHIT! Where does that motherless bastard think he's going??? <Jelarthna> ::blinks in shock:: no... ::rushes forward to look down the hole, knuckles white around his sword:: * Adam jumps down the hole after Nilgarthor. <Zoya> NO! Let it go! We've got what we came for! * Tyl wails in grief, clinging to the body of her mother * Zoya kneels beside Tyl to see if anything can be done for her mother. <Jelarthna> damn.... we have to go down. There's no way I can take Adam with us from up here! <Lisl> Not if that hell-child gets what HE wants! * Jelarthna quickly searches the faces of his friends <Zoya> ::without looking up:: Without Tyl, he can't have what he wants, Lisl. It's too big for us! Get Adam and bring him BACK! <Nilgarthor> :hundreds of shrieks come from the level down with a flash of light and heat... nearly half the trees explode into grey dust:: * Bluestar rushes and begins working to deactivate the fiery chains that bind his wife. <Lisl> Shit...I'm a wolf, not a bird...levitation spell, anyone? I can go down! * Zoya sighs, and shakes her head mournfully at Tyl before standing and pacing carefully to the edge of the hole. "Damn him... ADAM!" * Jelarthna growls deep in his throat and slams the tip of his sword into the ground, then kneels in front of it and grips the blade in both hands. Blood begins to trickle down the blade and pool on the sand as Jelarthna begins a harsh-sounding chant, the intonations echoing oddly <Lisl> Ehh...is demon-magic...wise here, Jel? * Bluestar gets Cwallie undone and looks around at the group. "Why are we still here?" <Lisl> We're missing someone. <Zoya> ::glances from Jel to Lisl:: It might be the only way, now. ::glances back down the hole:: ADAM! ANSWER ME! * Tyl turns weakly, her face soaked with tears. <Lisl> Dammit...someone give me a route back up, and I'll go GET him. MEN. Even if he IS mostly women. <Tyl> Break the globe... that's the last thing he needs... ::she points to the twelve obsidian spheres surrounding the clearing, each larger than the next. The largest is over four feet in diameter:: <Zoya> ::to Bluestar:: You break the globes. I'll help Lisl. ::she begins rapidly spinning a rope made of yellowish light and feeding it down the hole:: * Bluestar wheels about and begins focusing on the globes, working to mentally shatter them with his mind and physically break them with his sword, working from the largest to the smallest. <Adam> I've got him for a minute or so! Get down here before he breaks free! * Nilgarthor roars with frustration * Lisl grabs the light-rope and slithers down it as fast as Zoya can create it. * Jelarthna begins to shudder, gripping the sword's blade more tightly, causing the blood to flow more freely... <Zoya> ADAM, you idiot, come BACK UP HERE! He can't finish the spell, now, we've ruined vital components! It's time to go HOME! <Lisl> Adam, wagon's leaving, come ON. * Adam has completely transformed into an earth elemental and is currently holding Nilgarthor in a crushing bear hug. <Adam> If we don't finish this guy now he'll just do it all over again. * Lisl keeps up a steady stream of curses enough to turn a sailor's ears blue, and drops the rest of the way to the floor from one story up. * Tyl moves over to the far side of the room and starts frantically digging through some chests. With a scream of anger and frustration, she starts dragging the chests towards Jelarthna's portal * Jelarthna watches his blood begin to spread evenly to both sides, his intonations staying even and controlled, and a glowing doorway begins to rise slowly from the pattern of blood, leaving no trace of the sacrifice as it rises. <Zoya> It's too late for that, Adam! Jelarthna can't hold this portal very long! He's only got so much blood in him! <Adam> THEN GO!! * Jelarthna slumps over, leaning his head against the blade of his sword for a moment, then pulls the blade from the ground and forces himself to his feet <Lisl> Fine. I'll do what I can. ::calling her Claws again and climbing carefully up the Adam-statue to plunge them in Nilgarthor's eyes. <Jelarthna> It's open for at least three hours, or until I close it... ::speaking weakly:: <Zoya> ::glances back at Jel:: How long...? * Nilgarthor shrieks, biting at Lisl weakly. <Bluestar> ::breaky breaky breaky:: * Lisl snarls, turning half-were and biting back, hard. * Tyl throws the chest into the portal, then goes back for another one <Zoya> Three? ::mutters something unflattering under her breath, then tells the rope to "stay" and begins climbing down.:: <Lisl> Ugch...::spits and keeps stabbing:: <Jelarthna> ::watches Tyl weakly for a moment, then hobbles over to her:: Tyl, you need to go through.... to get safe <Tyl> ::drags another chest over to the portal:: Put Cwal through first. She's expecting. * Lisl hisses between her teeth as little puffs of smoke rise from her fur, where the green ichor splashes. * Jelarthna grunts and staggers over to Cwal, lifting her awkwardly and carrying her to the portal * Lisl shifts her position and goes for the throat, slashing at the jugular veins. <Zoya> ::At the bottom of the hole, Zoya stands panting with exertion, surveying the scene. After a moment, she pulls out her ice-wand and aims a few judicious blasts at what look like vital and soft parts of the monster.:: * Bluestar has broken eight of the spheres, and is working quickly on the remaining four. * Nilgarthor chokes, a gusher of green ichor spewing from his mouth, then he shudders, staggers and collapses * Tyl drags another chest over <Lisl> Rrrrargh! ::leaps away, tumbling as she hits the ground, away from the gush of poisonous blood. <Zoya> All right, come on... ::gestures at the rope:: * Nilgarthor reaches out weakly, grabbing Lisl's ankle, smearing it with ichor * Jelarthna carefully pushes Cwal through the portal, careful not to touch it himself <Nilgarthor> A curse... on... you * Nilgarthor coughs again and lays still <Lisl> Rrrrr......::baring her teeth, and biting deep into Nilgarthor's hand:: Mine first! <Zoya> Come on, Lisl. I don't know if that was actually potent, and I can't check until we get home... <Jelarthna> ::walks over to Tyl and puts his arms around her, swaying weakly and ignoring the chest she's trying to lug <Nilgarthor> ::the silence of the temple is awesome... the ground is littered with the dead, blasted by the searing sands:: * Adam shakes the body producing a sharp snap, then throws it to the floor, stomping on and flattening its skull on his way over to Lisl and Zoya. * Lisl hauls herself to her feet, checking to make sure everything is more or less intact. "If my foot tries to kick me in the butt, we'll know. If it kicks Jelarthna, it's normal." * Bluestar finishes breaking the smaller globes, and walks over to stare down the hole. "Please tell me we're done here." * Lisl surveys the damage, and shakes her head. "So much waste...and for nothing. *That* is evil." * Tyl struggles for a moment. "Damnit... my sword!" <Zoya> ::looks up:: As soon as we climb back up the rope, yes. ::steps aside so Lisl and Adam can climb:: * Jelarthna slumps to the ground bonelessly <Tyl> Oh hell. ::slides out of Jelarthna's grip and rolls on the floor.:: * Lisl takes a deep breath and climbs hand-over-hand, legs swinging free. * Adam stamps his foot on the ground three times. * Tyl concentrates grimly. With sweat straining from her forehead, she makes a rising motion with her hand. The remaining trunks and Jelarthna begin levitating towards the portal. Tyl staggers after them. <Zoya> ::glances at Adam:: Please tell me you didn't just collapse this room with me in it. <Adam> ::A wall collapses allowing any survivors to escape. Then a pillar rises out of the floor lifting Adam and Zoya back up to the rest of the party.:: <Bluestar> Tyl, dear student, rest a bit. ::raises a hand and starts levitating the trunks and Jelarthna:: * Tyl coughs, spitting a mouthful of dark blood onto the ground, then falls into the portal * Jelarthna struggles to stand and plants his feet on the ground, shaking his head to clear it <Adam> No Zoya. But this building will collapse in an hour. I suggest we leave. <Zoya> ::grins weakly at Adam:: Show-off. ::She lifts a hand, and her rope dissolves into glittering sparks:: Let's go, then. * Adam grabs a trunk in each arm and marches through the portal. <Jelarthna> ::gasps at the sight of Tyl and start towards the portal, then stops, waiting for the others:: Best if I go through last.. I'll be able to recover some of the energy in the portal that way... * Lisl yelps and catches the edge of the hold with one hand, pulling herself up and giving Zoya an evil glance. <Lisl> Not a...::pant, pant:: problem. * Bluestar hangs back, keeping an eye on everyone. "Ladies..." * Zoya walks slowly toward the portal, breathing heavily. "That... everyone?" She glances around, then steps through. <Lisl> ::resting on the floor for a moment, taking a last look around:: Everybody here? Nothing we forgot? Everyone remember their toothbrush? <Jelarthna> ::grins weakly at Lisl:: Cwal, Tyl, and Adam are already through. <Jelarthna> I think the ugly elf managed to snag my toothbrush, though. <Lisl> Right. So let's go before the lad bleeds to death, hmm? ::stepping through the portal:: * Lisl calls back, "S'okay, Jel, I spanked 'im good for you." * Bluestar steps through the portal. <Jelarthna> ::looks around, sighing heavily:: Let's just make sure... * Jelarthna walks over to the pit and looks down at Nilgarthor's body, then pulls a large ruby from his pouch and smears some more of his blood along it's whole surface, chanting slowly, a glow rising in the center to glow brightly...: <Jelarthna> ::slumps a little more, looking even more drained as the ruby glows painfully bright, and a slight scent of burning flesh rises:: My curse on you, Nilgarthor... ::tosses the ruby down onto the beast's body and stumbles through the portal with a slight grin:: |
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