Turn 159.0: Returning to the Surface

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Turn 159.0: Returning to the Surface

Posted: 8/21/01

Skandor's eyes are wide. He can not conceal the shock and amazement of the virtual hoard before he and his companions. As a Sword Bearer, Skandor has spent his time on watch over some of his temple's vaults, but none of them even came close to the splendor and sheer extravagance laid our before him. What he saw now, he had only thought existed in fairy tales of dragons and their lairs. He picks up the breastplate--finer armor he cannot recall seeing. Such a piece of armor would protect Emma quite well. Or perhaps one of the shields, since the item of her title, "Shield Maiden", was one of her favorites? Skandor notes that his companions, especially Storm and Hannibal, share his fascination with the items contained here. But the importance of the situation is not lost on him. He clears his throat, finally breaking the silence.

"My companions, while we may wish to remain here as long as possible to determine what some of these items might do, I probably do not need to remind you of our task. While I have faith in the Hathean priests above," he pauses, nodding politely towards Amos, "the ones who escaped could very well be informing their masters of our battle with Corvac. And, we have no idea what reinforcements they may have received in the time we have been down here."

Emma looks around for a long time, taking in all the wonders of the treasure-filled vault. "Only three," she murmurs, mindful of the words of Kilner's shade, "It's a shame we can't take as much as we're able to carry." Her voice echoes in the chamber, clearly heard by everyone present. "Do you think that the coin and gemstones count as one of the three items?" she asks Crayne, and then turns to Amos, including him as well in the question, "After all, the fortune arrayed before us would go a long way toward securing King Bryant's reign, paying the Dwarves a fair price for access to the adamantine mines, and ultimately arming our forces so they can stand against Caerloon's might. We'd do well to take some of it with us and accomplish such things with it. And perhaps a bit for ourselves, to more properly outfit us for the days ahead?"

Crayne replies, "I believe we should stick to what the priest Kilner told us. He clearly stated that the curse would be lifted on three items. It is not our place to take anymore. Greed is often the downfall of many a man or woman."

Hannibal winced slightly at that comment but said nothing. It would seem that those two would always be in argument.

Emma looked sidelong at Crayne. His choice of words seem particularly targeted towards her, though she couldn't be sure. Still to state that 'greed is often the downfall of many a man...or woman' seemed a bit contrived to her. The statement was true of course, but she didn't necessarily feel it applied to her at the moment.

She looks in the direction of Storm and Hannibal and answers their surprised expressions with a shrug. "Well, it's not like we're being funded very heavily by the caste of Anhur or the King's men at the moment," she explains, "So, what would be best? For this treasure to languish here, forever entombed beneath El-Balans? Or for a portion of it to accompany us and provide the means for seeing our quest to a noble end? I would say the latter. Right?" She ventures a glance at Skandor to see what the Sword Bearer might make of her logic.

Hannibal shrugged at the idea. "I like your reasoning Emma but I doubt the shade of Hathe would see your reasoning. I personally am not fond of magic...curses though, they give me the creeps!"

"I believe Emma that this treasure belongs to the Temple of Hathe. If these chambers had been found beneath a Temple of Anhur I am sure that you would claim the items for your faith. Is that not so?" Crayne says rising an eyebrow. He looks a little surprised at the priestess Emma.

"Yes, yes, you're right," Emma waved off the comment, "One could also argue that none but those that braved these chambers and had the courage and resources to uncover the treasure deserve it. Eventually, a Hathean priest might have discovered Kilner's Vault. But we're the ones that did actually it."

"Indeed! And our reward are the three items that Kilner has granted us." Crayne responds.

She turned to Amos and said, "But even we wouldn't have succeeded without Amos' interpretations and assistance. The treasure originally belonged to a follower of Hathe. And all of it still does. Kilner's shade granted us permission to take three items. And that's all. Nothing else belongs to us. Still, we should properly define what a single 'item' would be. Amos? What's your assessment? Would each gemstone count as an item? Would a chest full of gems count as an item? We don't want to offend your caste or dishonor Kilner, so please lend us your insight once more."

Crayne nods at Emma, "Indeed! This is a tricky one, Emma! Kilner's words were certainly unclear.

I believe though that we shouldn't take any unnecessary risk here."

Amos clears his throat, ready to weigh in on the rapidly-intensifying discussion. "You'n assume something here," the flighty priest begins in an unusually calm tone, "that each gemstone, each coin, is somehow magical. You'n may indeed be right, but in the plays and songs I'n have heard, a magical sword is commoner than a magical coin, yes? Without lengthy study, I'n would guess that a chest of coin would be safe to take...as one item. We'n wouldn't want to upset the gods too much by displaying," he turns to Crayne, "any signs of greed."

After listening to Amos' assessment, Emma finally comes back to the swords and armor, finding it hard to imagine such fine craftsmanship in her own hands. She looks around at the group, however, and recognizes that everyone probably desires something from Kilner's Vault. But not everyone would be able to claim something. Only three items were promised to them, and Hannibal had already been granted first choice. Who then would remain?

The priestess tried to focus her mental energies toward making the best choices possible. It was hard to do so given all the physical battering she'd taken lately, but thankfully Anhur's healing ritual had provided her a measure of her usual strength again. So who would it be? Crayne? The mage had already claimed Covarc's spellbook. That alone would provide him with enough treasure to last for a very long time, no doubt. The same could be said for Elloharin, since the two wizards would share the tome between them.

What about the warriors? Emma noted the gleam in Storm's eyes as the dwarf surveyed all the items. Surely, he would voice a desire to claim an item for himself. Canter, as well, seemed well-suited for the bastard sword in his hand. And Skandor? The Sword Bearer had lost his shield previously, and could certainly benefit from another. And then there was herself. She had no particular need at the moment, but a part of her wanted to give into the greed of the moment. She had certainly aided the group's cause. Would they think her worthy of either of the two remaining choices? And if so, what would she take?

Her eyes scanned the swords, but she discarded that option. Her longsword was perfectly serviceable and she needed to replace her flail, if anything. A shield, then? Somehow the choice seemed wrong. Emma no longer considered herself just a Shield Maiden. The title would remain hers within the hierarchy of her priesthood, but she could sense that something greater would be taking place, and it was time to let go of that duty. Instead, she should claim a higher calling than what the high priests planned for her.

If anything, the adventures of Rinder's Six had shown her that. The helmet, maybe? No. The breastplate. That's the item that seemed to call out to her. If she truly wanted to leave behind the imagery of a Shield Maiden--and even that of a Sword Bearer--she should adopt the armor of a true general, a leader for the armies of Rinder, whether it was on the battlefield or in the missions she undertook for god and country.

But Emma also realized she would need to live up to the part. Donning the armor of an officer and a general wouldn't simply give her the power of leadership. She would have to exemplify it with her actions. And to do that, she would have to start within Rinder's Six, itself. No more scathing judgements. No more in-fighting. She would have to accept the members of the group for what they were. After all, that was what any general was called to do when forming an army. And Rinder's Six was definitely an army to her, figuratively-speaking, of course. An army that would face the most difficult challenges possible and in doing so, preserve the way of life that everyone held dear throughout the Kingdom of Rinder.

"I...I would like...to claim an item," Emma spoke, "If everyone finds that acceptable?" She looked around, unsure how the others might feel about her request. Would they think badly toward her? She hoped not...

"I believe it the case that we all deserve an item. However, that cannot be so. I have already said that I will stand back and not claim an item. Thus, I believe it wise if I act as a mediator. Firstly, it seems that Hannibal has good claim to an item. Both myself and Emma have already confirmed this." Crayne looks around the group, "Skandor, Storm, Canter and Elloharin what do you think? Do you think Hannibal has good claim to an item?" Crayne waits for a reply.

Skandor can not hide a smile as he notices one or two of his companions do not even seem to paying attention, their eyes glued to the treasure. "As for the items we are allowed to take, I believe it was unanimous that Hannibal should have a choice. That is one. I might also recommend that we at least consider one of the chests of gold or gems. While the arms and armor are indeed fine and perhaps powerful, there is much to be said for gold. A magical sword cannot buy us mounts, or passage into an ocean, nor can a magical sword buy us information or food. Needless to say, I would again recommend that we at least consider that as one of our choices.

"As for choices other than Hannibal's, I see that Canter has taken a liking to that bastard sword. I would also recommend, as a tactician, that Emma be offered some form of magical protection, she being our sole source of healing and curative magics. But again, these are only recommendations, and I mean no disrespect or insult to the rest of us." Skandor smiles awkwardly, and offers the breastplate to Emma for her inspection. He clears his throat again, waiting for someone else to speak up.

"Hannibal should have the first choice, I say as well," Canter agrees, smiling to his friend.

"That is cleared up then! A majority of the Six think that Hannibal should claim the first item!"

Crayne turns to Hannibal, "Well done, Hannibal! You have deserved it!"

Hannibal nodded his thanks, the look on his face betrayed the fact that he clearly was not as excited as one should normally be. "I thank you then, all of you. What I did though I think any of you would have done in my place. I guess it is just good to have a family again." Hannibal turned back to the treasures and proceeded to chew on his dagger, something no one had seen him do since he first joined the group some time ago.

Crayne continues, "Well! I believe the only way to settle who takes the two remaining items will

be through the luck of a draw. If I write each name down on a separate piece of paper and scrunch it up into a ball and then place them in one of my belt pouches!" Crayne says as he takes one of the pouches from his belt, "Amos can then pick two from the bag if he has no objection. I believe this is the only

fair way to do this. It is ridiculous to think that anyone fought harder in that battle than anyone else. If there is anyone that has a problem with this method then I warn you now, I will not tolerate greed. For it is that that started this war and it is that that brought an end to the mage Covarc's life! Can I commence then?" Crayne says looking at everyone through his dark eyes. Crayne was becoming

powerful now. His magic was growing stronger than ever and he had been pleased with his display against the mage Covarc. He just hoped that his influence in the group would be strong enough to get them past this obstacle. He really wished that all of them could have an item for they certainly deserved it. However, it was not the case and this seemed to Crayne the only fair way to resolve the issue.

Hannibal says, "I think we need to make use of these items as best we can. In saying that, I would suggest that Storm or Canter be given a blade and Emma or Skandor be given a shield. Of course the hat thing works too...if that is the way we go."

"I think Skandor is right," Emma says, "One of the remaining two choices should be devoted to enough monetary wealth so that everyone can enjoy something from our success. The funds can be used to purchase new arms and armor of fine craftmanship for those of us that don't choose an item here. And it will do the group the most good."

"Urhmmm!" Crayne says as hears Emma's words, "I'm afraid I strongly disagree with you there. Magical items are very rare and are extremely valuable. I believe we would be foolish to take mere monetary wealth ahead of them. Besides which one of those chests are going to be heavy and cumbersome. I bet one of those rings or swords are worth a great deal more than one of those chests. Thus, I still think that the two remaining items should be drawn from the hat. If the person who gets drawn wants to take a chest for the group then fair enough. It is their choice. This is just my opinion but I warn to consider it before doing something we may regret in the future!" Crayne says.

"Point well-made," Emma concedes, "We don't know the true value of the treasures before us. In fact, we are unaware of which items are truly magical in nature and which are not," she nods to Amos, remembering how he drew on this argument in his prior assessment. "It might be wise for you to prepare your divination again, Crayne, so we can determine that now. And perhaps Storm or Hannibal could appraise the non-magical items and thereby give us an idea of how valuable the remainder might be?

"But, even after that," she continues, "I would still recommend that we take a chest despite how burdensome it might be. Magical items are indeed quite valuable...but some are only moderately so when compared to a gemstone the size of one's fist. Kingdoms have been built upon such wealth. And though we might take an item with us and sell it on the common market to obtain such coin...that would take money out of Rinder's economy...whereas taking this new wealth with us would infuse the coffers of King Bryant so that our war-chest would overflow to match the mercantile might of Caerloon. Such is my opinion. And I hope you'll respect me for it as much as I respect you for your own. I wish only to do what will be best for our kingdom and achieve the greatest good for the most people."

Crayne nods at Emma's words, "Perhaps you are right Emma!" Crayne concedes, "Perhaps we should

claim a chest for the group. I suppose it is fairer on the group in that we all receive a reward. Yes I do believe the second choice should be a chest of treasure." Crayne turns to Emma, "I suppose I must apologise to you all! It not often that a mage like me sees all this magic. It excites me and perhaps

I believe it a great shame for us to leave a magical item behind in exchange for monetary wealth. However, on second thought I do think that it could benefit the group more and it is fairer. Thus, that leaves the third choice which I still believe we should carry out by a draw as I first suggested."

"As for that third choice," Emma continues, "I retract my request. I don't really need any of the items here. With these coins and gems, I can easily purchase anything I might desire after we leave El-Balans. The same could be said of all of us. So that's two votes that we use a choice to take one of the chests with us. Will anyone else agree?"

Crayne looks surprised at Emma and hopes that he hasn't caused any grief over this, "If that is your decision, Emma. However, I do believe that you have as good as right as any to put a claim on one of these items. You have been a very influential member of the Six and your faith and abilities have gotten us through many a tight spot. I'd like it if you'd reconsider."

"I see," Emma says, "Well then, if the votes do not support a group-choice for one of the chests, I'll leave my name in, so I may make such a choice according to my individual right should I win the draw. Still, I'll share the wealth obtained from it with all members of Rinder's Six and our King and countrymen when we return. I think that's the fairest thing to do." She smiles at the wizard. "And fear not Highbrow," she says, "This disagreement will not undo us. It is merely a choice. I think we will succeed no matter how Nire's luck plays out in determining who selects what for the group."

Skandor remains near Emma's side, and listens to her words and Crayne's words closely. Inwardly, he was relieved that 'treasure' would not cause a rift in their comraderie. Emma's words echo the thoughts in his own heart, and he nods his head approvingly as she concludes her feelings. "And since my own choice would be the same as Emma's, and in fairness to the others involved, I wish to pass on having my name added to the 'lottery'. Seniority amongst Sword Bearers is a very powerful thing, and I feel that way towards all of you. I am one of the newest members of Rinder's Six, and though I may have risked as much as you did during the battle with Corvac, I have not risked it for as long as the rest of you. If I were to 'win' a choice, I would just not feel right...Anhur's guidance will tell me when it is time to inherit such a fine weapon, or such a well-made suit of armor.

"But for now, my companions, my conscience implores me to remain out of the drawing. I hope this does not offend anyone," he concludes with a slight, trained bow towards his companions. "But," he smiles widely, "I am eager to see who the two other lucky people are!"

Crayne smiles again at Emma. "I am glad to here those words, Emma. It appears then that the situation is concluded. Hannibal will have first choice. The second choice will be a chest of wealth

which will be split evenly among the group. The third item will be drawn from my pouch as I first suggested."

Emma turns back to Crayne. "That does indeed leave one remaining choice and no single person among Rinder's Six deserves it more than anyone else...at least after Hannibal, that is." She smiles at the thief and continues, "If you choose to draw names, I ask that mine not be among them. I f anything, it's clear that our group needs more offensive power in the days ahead. I already have Anhur as my sword and shield. Crayne and Elloharin have been blessed with the discovery of Covarc's spellbook. Skandor has chosen to remove himself--unnecessarily so, but he has chosen so regardless. And Hannibal has already been granted a choice.

"That leaves only Storm and Canter...our warriors. Let them choose a weapon for the greater good of the group...as opposed to a single possession for one person. I think that would be the wiser choice. And, if anyone should be asked to carry it...I would recommend Storm. After all, it was our dwarven friend here who agreed to risk his life to creep down to the cavern floor during our initial ambush of Covarc. In may ways, he risked more than any of us, and lived to tell the tale."

Canter then says, "I would agree, Emma. Storm, here, has taken more than his share of a beating for our fair party in over the past few months. I think it high time that he be given his choice of magical sword." Canter takes a step back, smiling to Storm.

Emma nods. "Well enough," she agrees, "Let us continue in the spirit of companionship, however. If we view these items as the property of Rinder's Six instead of any single person's, I think it would be for the best. It just happens that we place an item in a single person's hands for the duration of our quest."

Listening to Emma and Crayne argue over trivialities is creating a dull pounding in the Dimmed One's head. All this charity! "You all talk to much," he mutters, shaking his head slowly and staring at the spilled gold at his feet. He thinks of the time wasted, and of the treasure troth held in Covarc's book.

Finally Elloharin breaks in angrily. "Three items. Let us not take for no reason. A treasure has meaning only as a symbol. As an idea, not value of its worth. What have we to be grateful for? Our lives certainly, I thank you all for that. Our play, and our jobs, good. That is what we came for, that is all we're owed. Yet...we are offered something more. Now it is true that Amos and his followers will have great fun rooting through the library in the vault, and that is the true treasure. But it is also true, that this dank, disgusting, dirty, dungeon is far from cleansed. I say we owe the priests of Hathe something for the favor they have bestowed on us. Let us then have think symbolically. Three gifts, one for the warrior who struck the most boldly, and who suffered the most pain. One for the group, because without us, the warrior would have been helpless. And one for those who showed us the way, for those who brought us here and allowed us to do what we came to do.

"For this reason I say the following: A gift for Hannibal, of his choosing. A gift for the group. Gold. I would love a new toy, but frankly, I'm down to my last weeks' rations. I'd like a new cloak, a new rope, and some more lantern oil. I'd like to sleep on linens when we return to civilization. A chest will certainly not be an easy thing to carry, but it would not be difficult to rig a sling between two of our mounts. It is time Rinder's Six set up a retirement account. If any of us live that long. And the last gift. For the priesthood. This choice belongs perhaps to Amos, but the best gifts are always chosen by others, not by the one receiving. I recommend one of the horns. They are obviously instruments of some worth, and likely have not been seen in generations. A priesthood of music and poetry would appreciate something like that. Maybe the horn with two faces, or perhaps the black one...though I wonder if it is not cursed. Enough argument. Let us be out of these blasted caverns!"

With that, El turns and goes to the door, breathing heavily and tapping his foot heavily. How quickly companionship turns to ire. How quickly words of thanks turn to words of saccharine, too sweet to eat. Elloharin the Dimmed is anxious to leave. He feels the pressure of the earth squeezing at his temples. He feels the blood rush to his head, and a moment of dizziness seizes him. He swears softly and takes a deep breath of the less confined air in the corridor. Let them choose soon!

Crayne turns to Elloharin, "Urhmmm! You speak wisely Elloharin and I respect you for your thought. However, these items belong with the Six now. Remember we leave all the other items here to the priests of Hathe and the library. Knowledge is more powerful than anything. We have already done a great service to the priests by freeing them from the clutches of the evil Red Dragon mages. We have also bravely found the library of Kilner which Amos now knows how to use. I am sure there is a way that they will find to lift the curse on the other items in this chamber. Thus, I believe the priests are cared for. I believe the third item belongs with us. It may be crucial in our efforts to find the Ring of Fire Command."

"The priesthood of El-Balans," Amos says, turning to the impatient elf, "will consider their freedom, and the vast knowledge in the library below--the true Vault--, gifts sufficient. I'n heard as clearly as you'n did, Dimmed One, and Kilner's spirit permitted you and your companions to choose three items. The priesthood will respect Kilner's wishes."

Hannibal spent a good deal of time on these rings, inspecting each closely and with a great deal of interest. Finally he turned back to Emma and Crayne. "I was wondering if one of you would spend some time looking at these for me. If it is my name that is drawn for an item here, I would like to make good use of my choice."

"Sure," Emma agrees, "I'd be happy to take a look. Crayne may know more about it than I, though."

As she approaches to help he points to the ring with the feather insignia. "I'm willing to bet this one is a Feather Fall ring...I knew of a man in the Blood Clan who owned one...very unusual. The other three, however, I would appreciate anything you can tell me of them. ossibly you could read the insignia on any?"

I don't recognize anything about the ring with the feather," she explains, "But it seems prudent that it might work similar to Elloharin's enchantment. Perhaps he can verify that with Crayne's assistance?

"Let's take a look at this one," Emma says, holding up the ring with the inscription and angling it in the light to illuminate the engraving. She calls upon her limited knowledge of spellcraft and history, prepared to defer to Amos if the item turns out to be in the same language as the symbols upon the vault's door. "I can't be sure..." she says, inspecting the inscription carefully. Then, finally, "no...no, I don't recognize it." She smiles weakly, "all those seasons spent in the library and there is still much I have yet to learn."

Crayne nods at Hannibal's request, "I will try and help you in your decision Hannibal. From first inspection I would assume the following. Firstly, the ring with the two arrows I would assume to be an offensive spell. There are a number of arrow spells that come to mind. Melf's Acid Arrow and Flame Arrow are to name but a few. I would assume the one-word inscription is the command word needed to operate the ring. The ring with the feather on it I would assume to be a Feather Fall ring, as you suggested. A useful ring to have indeed. Very useful if you had the ability to fly," Crayne says, pausing for a moment, "The third and fourth rings however are not so clear to me. The fifth ring is unusual and perhaps not magical. However, let me take a closer look and then I will cast a spell over the rings to see if I can find out anymore. First, though it will take a few moments to prepare myself."

Crayne then takes a few moments--frustrating the impatient El--to memorize and then cast Detect Magic. He quickly adjusts his eyes to the magical hews of the room, which are bright and abundant. Indeed, Kilner had stashed quite a collection of magical items in this chamber. It nearly redefined the word "treasure"! The mage quickly casts a glance in the direction of a few of the chests, noting that a few of them did not seem to exhibit any trace of magical aura. He commits those to memory, remembering to suggest taking those so as to avoid any unnecessary magical traps.

He then focuses his energies wholely on the rings. First, the one with the two arrows, bent into a circle, tail-to-tip. The ring surely emanates magic, and after a moment of concentration Crayne thinks he can identify the type of magic the ring possesses: magic from the school of alteration. Wiping beads of sweat from his forehead, the mage then turns on the next ring, the one with the feather. Again, it appears to be imbued with magic from the school of alteration, though the magic is slightly weaker than in the first ring.

Minutes pass as Crayne moves on to the third ring. He concentrates on the ring, with its arc-shaped insignia, and once again discovers the enchantment's origin: the field of alteration. 'Interesting...' Crayne thinks to himself, 'I wonder if Kilner, himself created these...and if he specialized in the field of alteration magic?' Taking a deep breath, Crayne continues his explorations, turning on the ring with the wave. After a moment, he can determine that, once again, the ring emanates the charms of the school of alteration, with its characteristic silvery coloring. Finally, he turns on the final ring, the plain silver band with a streak of green. This ring appears different from all the others: its color is not the familiar silver of alteration, but a very deep, dark green, almost black, indicating the field of necromancy. Crayne's eyes linger over this ring for a moment as he tries to learn all his Detect Magic spell will tell him. Somehow he thinks this ring's powers are not offensive or harmful, for he has read that truly harmful necromantic spells have a pure black tint, whereas this one has a touch of green. 'What could that mean?' he wonders.

As his divination finishes, Crayne turns to Hannibal, informing him of what he discovered. "The school of alteration," he says, finishing, "concentrates on changing the properties of things. I regret that my current abilities can give you no further details on these rings, but at least we have a little more information, now."

Crayne then faces Hannibal and Storm, the two who will choose items. "I would advice you both to choose wisely. Do not merely take into consideration your own personal interest. Take into consideration the group--Rinder's Six. Would a magical sword or shield serve the group as well as a magical ring? You can assume a lot by looking at the emblem on the ring! If you have any more questions then do not be afraid to ask me!"

Crayne then takes up the spellbook of Covarc. Moving his hand along the front cover Crayne smiles with delight. He remembers, though, that caution is required here. 'Not now!' he thinks to himself, 'Back up at the Temple where there is more light and more time!'

He turns to Elloharin, who looks back, "I say we take a look at this when we get back up to the Temple. I'd like to cast Detect Magic over it first before we open it just to be on the safe side!" Crayne says, "Does that suit you Elloharin?"

The elf nods, watching the valuable book carefully.

"Now, it is time for Hannibal and Storm to make their choices. In the meantime, I recommend we select one of those chests," he indicates those that did not emanate magic, "to take with us as coin, since I discovered no magical aura from them. We can be sure, at least, that the coins are not magically harmful."

Hannibal chews nervously on his gloved right hand, mentally torturing himself with the decision at hand. So many opportunities, so many different powers, and he was forced to make one here. And what of the rest of Rinder's Six, they were each as brave as Hannibal if not more so. They deserved to draw from this pile as much as he. For a brief moment Hannibal teetered on just taking a chest, to share with the group. The hero business had not paid all that well lately and Hannibal was sure there was a little something that every man and woman in this chamber would love to buy for themselves. Hannibal's own armor, both pairs in fact, could use some adjusting and repairing.

Finally, after much deliberation, Hannibal smiles. It wasnt really a smile intended for the others but rather one of satisfaction simply for himself. He had done a great deal of thinking lately and was at the brink of giving up, but something inside him said that this was his sign, his chance for redemption!

Reaching out, much to Crayne and Emma's surprise, Hannibal completely ignores the rings he had been so interested in before and instead moves to select a sword! The longsword he takes is finely made and fits his hand well. He twirls it, flips it, and gets the feel of the weapon he feels he was destined to hold. The longsword, not symbolic of a Thief...it was the weapon of a Fighter!

Standing, Hannibal never took his eyes of his new possession. "Thank you all, this means a great deal to me!" With new Sword in hand, Hannibal steps back and allows the second choice to be made.

STORM: Which item do you choose? Aside from the rings, there are 2 lutes, 3 horns, the pouch of dust, 4 shields, 2 long swords (not counting the one Hannibal chose), 1 bastard sword, 1 chest plate, 1 pair of bracers, and 1 helm, in addition to the chests of coin and gems.

Once the three items have been chosen Crayne looks to the group, "I suggest we make it back for the Temple where we can get some rest and some attention. I for one think it foolish to hang around here. It is littered with traps, after all, and it will be nice to get some fresh air again. I do not believe that those two men who escaped will be a threat. I think it unlikely that they would have the courage to face Rinder's Six without their leader. However, that is not to say that we shouldn't be wary. Furthermore, me and Elloharin would like to take a look at the spellbook. Maybe, it will contain some spells that would help us to identify the items you have chosen," he looks to Hannibal and Storm.

Hannibal nods in agreement. His wounds still ached terribly and it took everything he had just to stand here with the group. "I could definitely use some sleep."

"Let's be off then," Emma agrees, "And prepared for trouble should anyone care to bring it to our door again."

With that, the party begins to move again. Hannibal activates the Marcus Switch, opening the door to the bridge. With Storm and Canter carrying the heavy chest of gold coins, they cross the bridge to the far side, where the hidden gateway leads back into the first large chamber (the one with the dead giant scorpion). El whacks his lantern, hoping to get the last of his last flask of oil to keep the flame burning long enough for them to reach the surface. The lantern provides just enough light, and after some time the group crosses the large chamber and finds the doorway to the narrow staircase leading up to the underground levels beneath the temple of El-Balans.

The stairway continues to ascend as Rinder's Six and Amos retrace their steps up to the surface. After what seems like hours they finally reach the threshold, the spot where the seal to the Ancient Chambers was broken just days earlier. Crossing out of the Ancient Chambers, the group finds its way along the tunnels of El-Balans, and into the familiar study beneath the sanctuary.

As they enter the study, the priest Dodgen, sitting and reading, rises to greet them. A wide smile winds its way across his face, and his eyes begin to tear as they meet with those of his Director, Amos. Dodgen rushes forward, throwing his arms around Amos dramatically. After a moment of heartfelt embrace, Dodgen breaks free, sniffling away his tears and facing the rest of the group.

"You'n have returned," he says simply, searching for words in this emotional moment, "you'n have returned from the Ancient Chambers. I'n have never seen anyone complete such a task. And you'n have rescued our Director! May Hathe shine upon you'n with infinite songs in his heart! Tonight," he continues, his smile growing wider, "we'n will celebrate. The success of Rinder's Six!"

"Composor Dodgen," Director Amos says, stepping forward and alongside his fellow priest, "Great thanks are indeed owed to Crayne, Emma, the Dimmed One, Canter, Storm, Skandor, and of course Hannibal the warrior thief... I am sure they'n will enjoy our best of celebrations this evening. But...our gratitude can best be bestowed by offering them rest and healing before their journey continues."

Dodgen nods enthusiastically. "But of course. I'n will send the most artful of healers to attend to you'n," he smiles again at the group. "Did you'n find the drama you sought?"

"We did," Canter replies, "and as I'm sure Amos will tell you, we found much more. Kilner's Vault is a treasure far beyond riches and coin. You and your priesthood will have much to study for generations to come. Amos will be able to show you the way."

Smiling, Dodgen responds, "That is good to hear! Well then, let us find you'n a place for rest, for healing, and for clearing your'n minds of the dusty dungeon below. Then tonight we'n shall celebrate!"

After being led back to the sanctuary, then out into the sun--which is a bit blinding, in a spectacular sort of way, after spending days underground in the dungeon--the group can see a new structure has been erected in the pace of the one razed during the Battle of El-Balans. Rinder's Six is led to this new building, where they find fresh bunks, water, and clean clothes to wear while their garments are washed.

Soon a group of young priests are led in, and they attend to some of the closing wounds of the party. They apply some lotions and creams, and also call upon the healing songs of the god of Hathe to provide some remedy. Each member of Rinder's Six receives considerable attention, and although they are not all fully healed, the improvement is significant.

(OOC: 18 hp are restored to each character, up to his/her maximum.)

The lazy afternoon drifts by as most of the group rests. Hannibal spends some time in the large courtyard at the center of El-Balans practicing with his new longsword. It had been a while since he had wielded a blade of such fine craftsmanship, and with one as balanced and finely tuned as this--it is far nicer than the blade he had been using!--he can begin to recall some of the more intricate moves he once new on the fields of Bigamore.

Storm, meanwhile, takes to counting the gold and coins in the chest. Skandor keeps an eye on the dwarf from his bunk, smiling as he watches over his friend, who is obviously in an ecstatic state. After a careful accounting, Storm rocks back on his hunches and exhales slowly, smiling widely.

"And the grand total?" Skandor asks, resting his head on his strong arms as he lies on his side, facing the open chest and stacks of coins.

"It be a lot, I tell ye!" Storm replies, almost giggling. Then, he breathes deeply and continues, "by me countin', we got ourselves here nearly 1,250 golders!"

Skandor nearly falls out of the bunk. Never before had he been faced with so much wealth! It was mind-boggling!

"And..." Storm continues, "we got ourselves some o' these stranger coins. Me father used to have a few, he called 'em 'platinum pieces,' said they are harder to mine, so they're worth more. We got us some 575 'o those fellers."

"Incredible," Skandor whispers, noting the way Canter's attention has also been drawn to their newfound fortune.

"And..." Storm continues.

"And?!" Canter interrupts, laughing.

Storm nods to the fighter, "And I be countin' 20 gems. I not be able to get an exact value, but my guessin' be tellin' me we got ourselves 10 at about 20gp, 5 nearin' 50gp, and then the other 5 between 100 and 250 golders."

"And?!" Canter says, waiting for more.

Storm shrugs, "That be it!"

"That's it?!" Skandor says, pretending to be annoyed. "You've done well, Storm. I'm sure the others will be pleased to hear of the wealth carried in that large chest. And King Bryant will surely be thankful as well."

1. HP Status, including the healing in this turn:

Canter: 30/44, Crayne: 16/16, Elloharin: 30/30, Emma: 30/47, Hannibal: 27/29, Skandor: 38/38, and Storm: 40/50.

2. STORM: please indicate which item you choose from the treasure trove.

3. Actions now? You are obviously obligated to stay for the celebration this evening. But how much longer do you intend to stay at El-Balans? Any other actions while you are there? Spells to memorize? Spellbooks to investigate? Questions for the priesthood?

Once you depart, where will you head? Will you head back toward central Rinder so as to deliver some of the wealth to King Bryant (who, one would assume, would be in Merriam, the capital city)? Or will you head immediately into Caerloon, heading south toward the distant Islands of Vile, where Gaten's play indicated the Ring of Fire Command once rested? If you intend to purchase some weapons/armor/supplies with some of the coinage, where will you do this? In Rinder or in Caerloon on the way?

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