It has been over two years since Kokron's appearance of New City. The return of the Great Sorcerer has wrought many changes in the region, to be sure!

Since the gates to the Great Dome have been thrown open, the city is now known as Jema Farb and rests in the center of what is now known as New Kingdom. This nation-state is said to encompass a region extending for at least 100 km in every direction from the new Court of Truth in the heart of the Dome. Although very rarely seen, Kokron is said to be a radiant being who's existence now serves only one purpose - bringing peace and well being to all those who will accept the New Magna Carta and its covenants. All intelligent beings are invited to settle within the boundaries of the realm and can expect protection from persecution.

This would have been unthinkable even as recently as a year ago when a young sh'rell priest created a movement within the Delta that threatened to bring about an uprising; however, his new church was crushed by the military and this priest, known as T'rel, was executed in a most public and gruesome manner. Although, his life and ministry were cut short by the iron hand of the ruling party, the written record of his teachings spawned a movement that took hold and began to spread beyond the confines of the city. A great ideological war, it seemed was looming as mutant forces began massing on the plains in preparation for the final showdown with the forces of 'Genetic Purity'.

And then he came...

From the sky, it is said, great Kokron came to the Delta and to the Dome. His message was much the same as that of the doomed shi'rah. With a revelation backed by his supernatural presence, the greatest sorcerer in history returned from beyond this realm to recant his earthly legacy and renounce the Knights of Genetic Purity. The city's rulers attempted to destroy this second great blasphemer but their soldiers and flying machines were swept aside with a wave of his hand - and the gates to the great dome thrown open. Glowing with a light that is not from this dimension, all that saw the wonder of his form were forever changed. Striding into the forbidden wards, his light bathed the populace and they came to know TRUTH.

Now, it is said, Kokron 'rules' this New Kingdom from a state of grace - in spirit form. While his materialization was short lived, his presence now resonates within the walls of Jema Farb and can be felt throughout the land.

Many pilgrims come to see the being who accompanied him upon his return - the tall and splendid tuft - Phizztuft, he is called - who permanently dwells within the new sacred garden in the heart of the dome. It is said that all that have been in his presence are forever changed as this sentient plant exudes an overwhelming aura of serenity and peace. That is not the least of his precious nature however. Power - power to drive a great city - broadcasts from his 'flesh' and so it is the same for his many 'buds' that have taken root throughout the Kingdom. None shall ever know darkness again as a result.

And what of the wizard's staff of legend - Abrax Gobronicus/"The Gobron"? It is said that Phizztuft once quested after and wielded it, and it was this quest that brought about the return of the Master. However, there is as much myth as fact in these accounts and neither he, nor Kokron has ever spoken of it...

Far to the east of the New Kingdom, at the very border of civilization, sits the small trading post known as Matsy's Place. Nestled alongside the bank of a slow moving river, the few shacks and crooked fences that make up the compound are barely discernible amongst the wild growth that covers the region. If not for the fact that the main house is built upon stilts and the ever-present smell of the smokehouse, one could pass close by and not notice the place. Locals, of course, know the trails that lead to Matsy's and the river traders have the bank marked - but this is untamed country. Very little land (for many kilometers in every direction) has seen a plow. There are no roads, no power stations, no comforts and definitely no law.

Of course, Matsy makes her own law when the traders and trappers come to call. A large dark-skinned saurian, no one wants to see her bright neck flesh flair. It does so only when she is angered and that usually means there'll soon be fresh meat for the River Hissers. But, hers is a popular spot amongst the rugged explorers who penetrate this for into the wild lands. Her famous 'Green Stew' is always piping hot, her whisky's always potent and her trade goods reliable.

On this night, amidst the sounds of the croaking, bleeping, chirping and buzzing of the mudtoads, glowflies, timbercrickets & such, there is a bit of excitement around the great firepot at Matsy's. A grizzled old PSH wanderer known as Simon tells that someone has found a way into the Stone Mound at the great soul besh pond. He reports sighting an open entrance through the mosses - an amazing revelation because it has been thought impenetrable for as long as anyone can recall.

What does this mean? What does this portend for the villages along the river and the forest folk who prefer their peaceful lives undisturbed?

"Why, if I were young again and had the gumption, I'd fetch me up a glowcube and have a look see in that there hole - I'll tell ya that." Simon declares with a gruff voice as he stuffs tender pipewide into his worn wooden pipe. "Dangerous - could be, but think of what might lie below, eh?" Shaking his old and weathered head, he chuckles roughly and takes a deep puff before looking around at everyone. Gesturing with his smoldering pipe, he says, "Maybe some a YOU might go an 'av a look, huh?"

Those to whom Simon speaks are a collection of young adventurers who have lately gathered at Matsy's. Their common bond being a thirst for knowledge of the world beyond their small villages. Now, it seems, just such an opportunity has arrived!

Dawn streams through the gaps in the old wooden walls of Matsy's guest 'house', stirring those inside to a waking state.

Outside, old Simon has laid out some smoked fish and a large kettle of tea. "Well," he wheezes, "thought I might spring for breakfast seeing as how you may have a tough ti...." his voice trails off in a mumble as he shuffles up the rickety wooden steps to the main house. Looking down from the porch, Matsy fingers a handful off coppers before turning and going inside.

(It should be noted that Flit seems to have much more interest in the wide variety of blooming flowers that surround the compound, while Lassiter (blinking his near blind eyes in the sunlight) twitches his snout actively and flies up into a nearby tree that bears an abundance of small but plump fruits.)

Once everyone is ready, its time to set out...

The party sets out down the trail that leads in the direction of the soul besh pond. As they head out, Matsy and Simon wave farewell.

Simon, waving his pipe, calls out, "Ya'll be a lookin' out now - ya hear? There are some bad dabbers out that way. Been settin’ traps en such, they has!"

As the group moves into the dense swamp foliage, Matsy can be heard to croak loudly, "Come back here and tell us what you find!"

And the adventure begins...

Traveling the better of the day, the party of seven comes upon a gruesome sight. Up ahead on the trail, it looks like some corpses are hanging from trees. They're grens, by the look of it, and they have large pieces of bark attached to them with vines. On these bark shingles are painted Tech I writing. They've been dead for a day or two and the swamp flies are already busily swarming about the bodies.

Aleax & Lassiter fly up to have a look but they can't see much more than is obvious to everyone else. These are simple tribal folk who have been killed with arrows and gunshots. They are hung (with vines) by the neck and the lines are tied to the tree bases. The Tech I markings on the bark shingles could be a message or warning but no one in the group can decipher them.

Leaving the hanging grens behind, the group finishes the day's travel.

On the second day, another unusual sighting is happened upon. Reaching a very deep & steep gully, filled with a wide creek, the path comes to an old stone bridge. However, on the opposite side, the path is blocked by a large pile of felled trees, branches and other debris. Primitive, hand-painted ‘signs’ are protruding from this pile in several locations. The language looks very much like that encountered earlier.

Except for the noise of the creek below and the occasional sounds of forest wildlife, there are no signs of intelligent life about...

With the black-eyed mutant leading the way, the trio of Hagus, Gasgut and Vladimir slowly pick their way over the pile of logs, branches, etc..

Nothing remarkable happens and they are able to end up on the other side without incident.

Gunther cautiously begins to make his way over the pile of wood debris when the orange blur of Ziber begins to scamper past him! The cat's anxious movement knocks a log loose and a small metallic object rolls out onto the bridge behind the climbing pair. Being at the top of the pile, they are able to roll over to the other side just as the explosion erupts on the bridge!

In a loud shrapnel blast, the primitive grenade detonates - hurling branches and leaves from the pile off into the creek below. Fortunately, no one else was behind them!!

It seems the party was lucky with regards to this trap...

The group finishes the day's marching without further event and sets out in the morning, intent on reaching the Mound by late afternoon.

It is on this third day of travel that the party finally meets up with the cause of their last two encounters...

Sometime around mid-afternoon, Lassiter flies back to the group from his advanced position ahead. In a low voice, he describes seeing a 'road block' about 75 meters ahead on the trail with several armed dabbers standing guard. He indicates that he feels they are quite psychic and were aware of his presence.

Ahead on the trail (out of the group's visual range), the brief sound of flute music can be faintly heard. Its a short series of notes repeated several times - and then it stops.

Lassiter and Aleax take flight, lifting up & away in a forward split. Flit merely stands by a tree, chirping for no apparent reason.

Gasgut finishes speaking, sheathes his sword and (apparently) moves to a position that might offer some cover when...

DOYOYOYOYOYINGGGGG! An arrow sticks into the tree trunk only inches from his head!

From down the trail, about 15 meters away, three figures can just barely be made out. They are heavily camouflaged dabbers and all three are crouched behind trees with bows drawn. A squeaky voice calls out, "Drop your weapons and walk forward with paws raised!"

There is another brief but shrill burst from the flute, in the distance...

Flit steps forward with his palms open - evidently an indication of friendly intentions for his species.

Meanwhile, Lassiter RAPIDLY takes flight back in the direction the party came from.

From Ziber's position (which IS pretty well concealed) comes what at first sounds like the flute music again. It then becomes immediately obvious that the hunkered down cat is trying to imitate it for some reason.

The three dabbers hold their position. The one to the rear of the others keeps an eye on the sky in all directions. More of them can now be heard coming down the trail...

As Flit speaks, Gasgut takes a non-threatening stance and raises his hands.

The kneeling dabbers with the bows seem to relax their pulls quite a bit and look at each other with raised eyebrows. Approaching on the narrow trail, the three from the barricade come into view just as Flit finishes his rant. Two of these are also armed with bows that they have ready to use - the third carries a drawn revolver and the flute hangs from a string around his furry neck.

The one with the flute, evidently within earshot as he approached, responds to Vladimir & Flit by saying, "I don't believe that you are the ones who have defiled and soiled our land." With a slight baring and chattering of his tiny teeth, he looks the group over and continues. "We know that you have come to explore the opened mound. Call in your flying scouts. Call them in and come with us. You may keep your weapons and you will not be harmed - but NO tricks. ANY TRICKS will be dealt with harshly."

The three on the trail begin walking back the way they came and motion for the group to follow. The three camouflaged ones behind the trees keep their positions.

The party is led off the trail & down a smaller path that leads to an interesting camp. It is on somewhat higher ground and is enclosed within a sturdy barrier that is topped with rolls of sharp edged wire!

Inside this fortified position, this party discovers a colony of dabbers - just like Lassiter reported. There are numerous buildings (with small doors and very low ceilings, suited to the dabbers' small stature) and tents within the community. Its essentially a Tech II environment.

Of particular interest (aside from their food stockpiles) are several stations where craftsmen are busy with metal working projects. There appears to be a real skill for it in this clan and they have a sizable amount of salvaged scrap metal for use in this regard. Wire, ringmail armor, arrows, daggers, hinges and cooking utensils are but a few of the things that they are producing. It also appears that they manufacture some interesting trinkets - for barter purposes, perhaps. Since virtually everyone in the party is familiar with gunpowder, another thing is noticed; one of them is evidently capable of manufacturing metal canisters containing an explosive charge - the incident at the bridge comes to mind.

There are at least 30 members of this dabber grouping.

Ultimately, the party is lead to a building near the far corner of the encampment, from which two dabbers emerge. One is an elderly female, robed and bedecked with tribal jewelry made from wood, metal and small bones. The other one is quite obviously the leader of the clan. He wears a high quality short sword and has a pistol-gripped scattergun slung across his back. She is introduced as Ploth and he as Janger.

Janger looks the group over and then gives the escorting dabbers a knowing look. Some of them walk off to other areas and about half take seats near the party to listen and observe. Janger relays the following story about recent events.

"A few weeks ago, strangers came into the Maghi-Roo - changed men, like him." He gestures toward Hagus. "They came into the sacred places and they desecrated them. They tried to persuade some of our neighbors to the east and the west to join their band. Those who wouldn't were killed and their homes looted. We posted warnings at the sight where we found the bodies of our Grennish trading partners so that others might not fall victim as they did. To the east, another village was razed and our friend and mentor, the one we call Kipton was taken away in chains. He has skills and knowledge of the old ways. Perhaps they need him to teach these things. He is our friend and taught my people to work metal and other good things. We think they took him into the mound when they breached it." He looks over at Ploth and the gray furred old fem-dabber speaks up, wagging a bent finger. "The pond is where we bury our dead and dedicate our offerings to the Great Spirit. It is a special place. We thought the mound to be natural stone. Now it is a thing of the ancients. This is why they came. Our people - none of us - will enter this place. It is forbidden and the Stones tell of bad tidings for any of us who violate the sacred mound with hearts full of greed and lust. NO! We will seal it!!"

Janger looks over at her and then back to the group. "So you see", he says, "we would like to learn what became of our friend, Kipton, and why he was taken from his village. We know that you have come to investigate this place. Please do it for THIS reason. Return and tell us what you find. When you return, we will again seal it forever. If you can help us, I am certain that the Great Spirit would bestow many favors upon you in your travels.

As he looks at Gunther & Aleax, Janger's brow furrows and he tucks his small chin into his neck with a frown. "The raiders have gone for now.", he says. "Although they were numerous and well equipped, I don't think you can expect a confrontation with them while exploring the innards of the mound; however, it may fortify your courage if I send along an escort." Looking over at the three camouflaged archers, he waves them over and they seem to know what he expects of them. Continuing, he looks at Gunther and says with a very wry smile, "It is WE who will be punished for violating our laws - not you. Forgive me but you are not... 'clean' in the eyes of the Great Spirit, therefore, you will not violate any of our customs and beliefs by entering the mound - especially with the good and proper intention of discovering Kipton's fate."

He glances over at Ploth and then says, "Return with information about their purpose, why he was taken and where. Then, perhaps, we can speak of 'rewards'. You go now."

Evidently finished speaking to the party, he turns and re-enters his hut. The three scouts begin leading the party away.

Leaving the dabber community behind, the party continues down the trail - escorted by the three, dabber scouts. After another hour of movement, the body of water (often referred to as soul besh pond) is reached. There, the group notices why it gets its name. There are many soul besh flitting about the area and they seem to be drawn to the large fetid pond. The dabbers don't seem alarmed and quickly use flint & steel to light torches that begin producing an abundant amount of smoke. Motioning the party forward, they wave the smoking brands about and this seems to discourage the large soul besh insects (skeeters) from coming too close.

Walking around the pond, they point ahead to a large stone - more like a small stone hill, to be exact. Hidden in a dense thicket of trees, you would had to have searched for some time to find it here (its a long way around the pond!). Its surface is covered in ivy & moss and it is perfectly round.

The dabbers will go no closer, however, they give you two of the smoking smudge sticks to ward the skeeters off. Observing the party's actions, they watch as the group moves into the thicket. Almost immediately, it becomes obvious that this place has been recently visited by a large group. There has been a camp here and then... they see it. Near the base of this smooth round stone is a chiseled hole - about 1.75 meters wide. There is stone debris all about. The stone, it seems, is about 2 meters thick! Beneath the stone surface, those who get close enough can see a huge glass 'eye', as wide as a man is tall! It rests on the end of a strange metal machine that reaches all the way to a floor, about 10 meters down. In the murky gloom of this home of the ancients, vague shapes of machines and metal line the walls and fill the shadowy corners.

Aleax is forced to make way for the descending bat that swoops past him into the underground room!

Within the span of a few moments, Flit flutters in behind him and illuminates the chamber with his glowcube device! At almost the same instant, Aleax's face goes momentarily blank and his wings go limp! The dark elf drops ALMOST to the floor before his wings again begin flapping!!

Flit's bright light reveals several things of great interest. First of all, the room is dominated by a very large white metal device of the ancients. Its purpose is unknown. There are a number of metal cabinets & tables along the walls that appear to have been ransacked. On one wall, is a shelf that holds an odd device that is set into the wall. It has no obvious function but there is a slit in the wall underneath it that holds a small yellow card (made of plastic).

There is a curving stairway that leads up (from the floor) to an exit concealed by a thick black curtain.

Of GREATEST interest, however, are two large (their bodies, excluding their legs, are 1.5 meters wide) spiders that are clinging to the walls. They have dark fur except for their legs, which have bright red fur. They flash teeth in a menacing manner as soon as the light comes on!

Vladimir ties the rope off to a nearby tree while Gasgut, Gunther and Hagus look on. He prepares to lower himself in next round!

In the action immediately following the glowcube's activation, the spiders act first! They leap from the walls and scamper to attack Ziber with great speed! The agile cat is lucky, though. One of them misses badly as he gnashes at Ziber's tail while the other comes closer but still doesn't find anything to bite!

The hovering Flit emits a Sonic Blast but causes no damage!

Aleax fires a crossbow bolt (at Short range) at the same one and hits it in a leg joint. The spider's thick hide and fur prevent 5 points but it still takes 6 points of damage!

Lassiter shoots a revolver round at the other one (at Short range) and grazes it pretty good along the back! It's hide/fur stop 5 points but it takes 4 points of damage! The spider is Stunned!

The spider fighting Ziber snaps at him again but still can not find flesh to sink his fangs into! The second one, still groggy, wobbles somewhat but does nothing more!

Vlad drops to the ground, turns and attacks with Gasgut right behind him! What bravery!! However, this tricky stunt was a bit too much for Vladimir as he slips and falls hard to the floor! Vladimir is Stunned! Gasgut steps over him and slashes at the spider on Ziber but misses, his sword striking the

floor with a sparking clang!

Aleax works, in mid-air, to reload while Lassiter (from Short range) shoots again! His bullet just misses the Stunned one! At almost the same moment, an arrow from Hagus (firing from above at Short range) hits the creature! Its hide stops 5 points and it takes 5 points of damage!

Simultaneously, Ziber goes wild on the one tangling with him! He claws at it and even tries to bite but the extremely agile monster avoids damage! One of Ziber's claw swipes goes clumsily wide and he injures his paw striking the large white machine! Ziber takes 1 point of damage!

One of the spiders turns and attacks Vladimir while he's down! The arachnid bites into his leg with great force but his studded leather armor prevents all damage!

(The stunned spider gives its attention to Ziber but automatically loses initiative)

Ziber claws the spider facing him for 4 points of damage! (its fur & hide prevent harm).

The others come to Ziber's aid as the nearby Gasgut hurls a dagger into the thing at Point Blank range! Gasgut sticks it good for 12 points of damage! Flit inflicts 6 points of sonic damage! Lassiter fires a revolver round from directly overhead at Point Blank range, hitting for 9 points! The spider is dead!

Gunther shimmies down the rope and drops onto the floor!

The furry spider battles with Gunther, biting at him but failing to harm the man! Gunther fights back but the agile creature causes him to miss wide and hit Vlad instead! (its only a grazing blow and Vladimir's sturdy armor protects him)

Vladimir throws a dagger at Point Blank range and it hits for 10 points of damage!

Ziber shoots his revolver at Point Blank range! It hits for 20 points of damage! The evil arachnid staggers back and falls - Dead!!

Gasgut is able to retrieve his weapons (as is everyone else who threw anything).

The rope falls to the floor and Hagus successfully climbs down the large machine and joins the group.

Lassiter flies up the stairs and looks behind the curtain.

Behind the curtain, there is a landing. On one side, there is a partially collapsed wall with solid earth behind it. It has obviously been this way for centuries. It also appears that someone (or something) has been digging in it recently for reasons unknown.

On the other side of the landing are some curved steps leading down. Following them, the group arrives in a strange room. It is lit with Tech IV panels in the ceiling and the air smells fresh here. In addition, there is no dust or dirt anywhere! The room itself is rather plain, with smooth white walls & floor. There are a few chairs along the walls, of ancient manufacture, along with some bland abstract 'art' of some kind on two of the walls.

There are 3 exits from the room - smooth doors with no handles of any kind - North, South & East.

The south door opens with a ‘whoooosh’ as Gunther moves towards it. Moving to look inside this opened door, the party's eyes adjust to the dim light inside. The walls in this new room are painted with what can be best described as orange & red shadows. There are two exits from this room - one larger than the other.

There are two VERY interesting things here: 1) There is a long curved window along the south wall. Amazingly - IMPOSSIBLY - there is a scene of terrifying beauty beyond its pane. The land outside is barren dirt and rock, as far as the eye can see. Low, jagged mountains thrust up into the black, star-studded sky. Overwhelming this bleak landscape is a huge, banded orb. It fills up fully half the sky, like a swollen painted moon. Bands of red, orange and yellow cut across its awesome surface, broken only by the large red dot wedged between two of the bands. This is no painting. The party is looking out the window at another world!

2) There is a fine wooden desk across the room. Behind it, sits a man made completely of metal! Rising, he approaches the party and begins speaking in a friendly & excited voice, "MORE visitors to our museum! It will please you to know that The Curator has made adjustments to better suit uhhh... 'modern' visitors." Pausing, he touches his fore finger to his bottom 'lip' and muses. "If I could only figure out which DOOR everyone is entering from."

Approaching the party, he continues, "No matter, I am happy to be of assistance. I can provide a tour, answer any ques...." he stops and looks at Flit, Ziber and Lassiter. He then says, politely, "Oh... I'm afraid that your pets will have to be leashed within the museum. Just a moment." He turns, goes to his desk and begins walking back, holding three collars with 2-meter leashes attached."

"Please, please," the metal man says, raising his hands, "all of your questions will be answered." Turning to Gasgut, he says, "The Carvilon Museum serves to preserve and maintain the old K.B. Hutchy's Zurtory."

"Please, I must insist. You can't take the tour unless your pets are leashed. Those ARE the rules!" He adds, "You are such an eager group, brimming with curiosity. I might suggest the Lecture Hall as a starting point for your tour."

The metal host is completely distracted by Gunther's question and turns to face the window. As he does, he doesn't notice the animals' antics.

"Why we are looking out over the landscape of Jakilite's largest moon. The famous red spot is a great storm that has raged across the planet's surface for uncounted millennia. Beautiful to behold, isn't it? There are many such exciting scenes within our facility. Why I... uh.." interrupted by Vladimir, he turns and says, "Well, I'm not permitted to divulge such information without prior authorization from Administration."

Pausing, his metal eyes blink and then he turns to the rest of the group and asks, "Would you like a tour?"

"Well then, it seems we're all in agreement. We shall begin our tour in the Lecture Hall!" Walking over to the eastern door, the metallic host (who goes by the handle of Porter) gestures for the group to enter as it 'whoooshes' open. "Please, step into the vator".

As everyone files in, there is faint music playing in the background (do you know the way to Sante Fe...) and it is noticed that there are no instruments of any kind on the walls and no other exit. Once everyone is inside, a pleasant sounding voice asks, "Destination please." Porter promptly responds, "Lecture Hall - we have a tour today!" There is a feeling of motion and a few moments pass before the doors again slide open to reveal a very interesting scene!

As the door opens, Porter looks over at Gunther and politely states, "Pardon me sir but the leash MUST remain in your hand at all times. Security can be most unpleasant in these matters." (it seems Gunther had let the leash fall for some reason)

Beyond the door of the vator is a large and plush room. The floor is covered with a thick red fiber that everyone’s' feet sink into a bit as they step out upon it. However, it appears that age has been a problem because these red fibers come loose wherever it is stepped on. This has the dual effect of leaving footprints in the material and coating everyone's feet with red 'fuzzies'.

There are large paintings on the wall that look incredibly realistic. They depict scenes similar to the landscape seen from Porter's reception room. Directly ahead is a counter. This counter is flanked by wide doors on either side. Behind this counter are two metallic beings similar to Porter. One of them oddly, is missing his head. It seems to have been blown off!! There are scorch marks and signs of burn damage in its neck area. Porter turns to the group and says, "Drinks and snacks are available here at modest prices. Does anyone care to make a purchase? Oh... as I mentioned, our previous group has caused us to modify our systems. We now accept the custom of 'barter' in exchange for any items purchased from our museum."

Along the front of this counter is a display containing many colorful items that are, apparently, foodstuffs favored by the ancients for events such as this. They appear quite strange.

However, the single most amazing feature of this antechamber is the windows upon the world outside. Through these windows, the party sees a fully intact and operational city of the ancients! People (all PSH, of course), in colorful and sophisticated clothing, pass by - some of them even FLOAT by, utilizing anti-gravity devices. Floating transportation machines whiz about in the air and the skyline is filled with huge shimmering buildings that reach into the clouds. It is a scene of wonder and the population appears happy, excited and well off. There isn't one among the group who couldn't sit and watch this for hours!

Porter seems a bit put off as everyone gazes out the windows with fascination. "Please don't tarry now, the show is INSIDE." He waves his hand toward the doors beside the counter.

Porter looks on as Hagus begins to search the area.

Meanwhile, Flit is shown some tubes filled with multicolored syrupy liquid. Sampling several of them, he finds the orange fluid to be delightful! The attendant gives him a translucent token that shimmers in the light. "The theater is equipped with snack chairs for your enjoyment. Simply deposit this token and your chosen drink will be available throughout the show." He hands the jittery hummingbird a drinking tube to go with his interesting token.

The other snack bar attendant (the one WITH a head) answers Gunther, with regard to his headless partner. "Customer dissatisfaction, I suppose. That last group was hard to please. Especially the one with the quills! I don't even think they were interest..." Porter raises a finger and cuts him off, saying, "That will be enough. This is a TOUR!"

"Is everyone ready to proceed?", he asks in his normal polite tone.

Porter, about to unclip the purple velvet rope that blocks entry into the next room, turns to answer Gunther. "Why, we came from the nexus of the Observatory level, of course." He then turns to Vladimir and says, "Ohhhhh, I see what you mean. This IS most improper." Leaving the rope for the moment, he moves behind the counter. Speaking in low tones to the intact attendant, he activates the token machine and provides each party member with several of them. "Please accept these as our gift. We haven’t the parts to effect repair of the damage, I'm afraid. You are quite right, you are entitled to a tour experience that is unmarred by such unsightliness. Now please, if we could all move this way." (Ziber, it seems, is given tokens good for variations of a meat product known as a 'Hot' dog. Whatever its made from, it seems to appeal to the animal's sense of smell.)

Moving into the next room, the party sights a chamber with a large, high ceiling. The ceiling is rounded and smooth. This creates an optical illusion that makes it difficult to tell just HOW high it is. Indirect lighting seems to come from all directions and the overall feeling is that this is an important room. There are many seats in here! They are organized in rows and face a large raised stage at the far end of the auditorium. These are nice seats!

At any rate, as the group looks over the many rows of seats, an old man in ancient garb suddenly appears on the stage! Raising his arms, he says cheerfully, "Ladies and gentlemen, the show will begin as soon as you take your seats. Please find your places and enjoy the presentation."

As everyone finds their place, Porter (standing back at the doors) begins ushering in scores of PSH ancients - what a crowd! Many of them carry food & drink and they are very well dressed. It only takes a few moments to realize that they are going to fill the place up!

Within a few minutes, all the seats are filled and the room is completely dark, as Porter shuts the door and steps back into the concession area.

Suddenly, everyone feels as if they are floating in a void. The chairs, the stage, the room is gone and nobody can even feel their own weight! Then, without warning, you are surrounded by stars - as if floating in outer space. Below, can be sighted a blue & white sphere with hints of brown - the white areas are formed into swirls and swipes, having an overall wispy appearance. Behind it is the familiar image of the moon, although larger and brighter than anyone has ever seen it before! The sphere begins to slowly turn and then... an old man's face appears upon its surface, as if it was hidden on the other side. It is the same man that was on the stage but, this time, he has a stern visage. "Welcome to the Carvilon Museum. Loyal followers, answerers of the Call, your help is desperately needed. Long, LONG lonely years have passed since we have been able to serve. Our previous visitors taught us that the world outside has changed. They took advantage of our innocence and stole from us. They taught us new words and helped us change our... pro - ... programming. This we have done. We have changed our methods. We have upgraded security to the extent possible. The time has come to rekindle the spirit of the Museum. I am inviting each of you, our newest guests, to participate in its dawning glory. Together, we will expand our facility and create new ex-ex-ex-ex... exhibits. (the image of the sphere with the old man's face warps momentarily but returns to normal). Each of you will assist with preserving the wonders of times forgotten!"

Everyone feels a bit dizzy as the lights unexpectedly come back on. The many ancient humans stand applauding and cheering - the ovation is for the party!

At this point, the man appears on the stage again. Motioning for the applauding crowd to let him speak, he says to the group. "Check the arm rests of your seats, gentlemen. There, you will find your contract acceptance card. (sure enough, a white plastic card rises from a narrow slot on the seats belonging to Gunther, Vladimir, Gasgut, Hagus & Aleax) Each one has a red circle towards the bottom, beneath some Tech III writing. "Please press your thumb onto the red disk to accept.", the old man, says.

All of the ancient humans have cards too. They hold theirs up, pressing the red disks (which immediately glow brightly) with ecstatic glee!

As Gunther finishes reading the card's text, several nearby humans pat him on the back and shoulder, smiling. One says, "Yes, yes that's it."

The old man on the stage looks on with a cocked eyebrow as Gunther tries to locate Porter. However, he soon remembers that the metallic guide had earlier stepped back out into the lobby and is no longer here. In fact, upon realizing this, Gunther tries to open the door and join him but finds it locked. The party is shut in!

As Gunther makes his way to the stage, the other people step out into the isle. Frowning, they try to block his way, asking, "Why don't you accept? Why do you question the Curator? Why don't you join us?"

However, as the animals begin to mention that these people are mere images, he is able to gather his will and walk straight through them - in fact, everyone can do this!

Additionally, upon nearing the stage, the old man simply vanishes. Looking around for him, Gunther (and everyone else) notices that the crowd of illusory people appear restless and angered by the party's behavior. They whisper to each other, point at the party members and begin to develop menacing stares.

It is at this time that a voice resonates throughout the hall. It is the voice of the old man, and he asks, "What IS your decision?"

The many ancient patrons now begin jeering and angrily denouncing the party. They are becoming nothing short of an angry mob! Its a good thing they're just illusions and can't hurt anyone…

The angry crowd begins tearing at their clothes, shouting with unbridled rage as the party pries at the door and searches for other exits. Although they haven't harmed the party, its disturbing to note their behavior. What's worse, they appear to be morphing into mutants! They are rapidly becoming beasts with fangs and tentacles, completely removed from their human form!!

It is then that the Gasgut is knocked back! The door to the lobby is thrown open!! Standing in the doorway is a 2-meter tall machine that moves on tracks. It is made of metal, plastic & rubber. While not humanoid, it does possess the equivalent of two 'arms'. There are various small appendages, plates, joints & hoses about its form. Additionally, their are several small but colorful lights blinking on & off near the top of the thing. However, it appears to have been heavily damaged recently.

When the door opens, the holographic people begin clawing at the party screaming, "Lead us or FEED us!!"

The old man does, in fact, reappear upon the stage. Shouting above the din of the crowd, he says, "There is still time to reconsider. The alternative is... ablit-ablit-ablit-abliteration." His image momentarily appears 'jerky' & filled with 'static' but this lasts only a moment.

Also, everyone can smell something. It smells like... something's burning somewhere.

As Flit flies forward & up, the robot wheels about one meter forward and raises an arm, firing. Flit is hit by three needle clusters! Flit suffers 42 points of damage! Flit is paralyzed! Flit falls to the floor (fortunately, this causes no additional damage!!)! Ziber is struck by three Stun rays! Ziber is stunned! Ziber is Knocked Out!!

On the stage, the old man grasps his chin between his thumb and forefinger in obvious thought...

The robot points its needler weapon in Lassiter's direction but does not fire. Apparently, the hovering bat is past extreme range for the device!

The intimidating machine does discharge its stun ray at Vladimir but something goes wrong. Perhaps its overheated or simply malfunctioning - only a shower of bright sparks comes out, followed by a curl of foul smelling smoke! Valdimir makes his way past it, dragging Ziber along the way!

In the midst of this action, it appears something else is going wrong.

The old man on the stage disappears, as do all of the monster images that were filling the room! The robot rolls forward about 1/2 meter and then comes to a stop!! All of the lights turn very dim!!

Even porter and the concession attendants stand motionless!!

As Gunther approaches the vator door, it slowly opens. With Porter standing nearby (evidently inactive), the feminine voice is replaced by a slow mechanical drawl that asks, "Dessssssssstiiiiiinaaaaaatiooooonnnnn Pllleeeeeaaassssssseeee."

The vator very slooooooooooooooooooooowly takes the party back to the observatory. However, just prior to the doors closing on the theater lobby, Porter animates slightly and slowly produces a small metal orb with several knobby protrusions. He hands it to Gunther just before the doors close.

After rigging lines, the paralyzed adventurers are hauled back to the surface by their fellows. Shortly thereafter, the 3 camouflaged dabber archers appear from the brush. However, as they approach the party, their eyes widen and they step back with fear and apprehension! Its not the group that bothers them, its what's behind them! From the hole in the stone dome, there rises a floating box with a bright blue window on it. As soon as it leaves the dome it begins floating toward the party and Porter's face appears within the blue window! Without looking directly at anyone in particular, he voices a warning, "This is an emergency message. This is an emergency message. Evacuate the area immediately. I repeat - EVACUATE the area."

Then, without warning, the blue window goes dark and the box slowly sinks into the mud at the edge of the pond. Nothing more is heard from it.

The dabbers seem very anxious to lead the party back to the camp. They are quite agitated and their little raccoon teeth jitter and snitch as they look around.

With the assistance of the dabber guides, the party takes the short route back to their camp. However, about half way there, a deep rumble begins to develop from the direction of the pond - followed immediately by the very ground shaking. A few moments later and a wave of heat washes through the swamp. Many birds take flight and fill the sky all around, creating an eerie unsettled feeling. The dabbers, looking up & around at the many flying birds, look back at the party with eyes that belie no small amount of dread. Increasing their speed to a trot, they complete the rest of the trip back hastily - so much so that the group very nearly becomes lost trying to keep up!

Once back, Janger offers 3 empty huts for temporary quarters. He orders some of the non-warriors to build a cooking fire for the group & supply food, drink, etc.. Ploth (the old female) examines Flit, Gasgut & Hagus and begins administering to them. Hagus returns to consciousness rather quickly; however, her medicinal talents are frustrated by the condition of the other two. Taking Janger aside, she whispers to him and then returns to her hut. He, in turn, asks the party to rest for an hour or so and then he will discuss their finds. Without giving anyone a chance to respond, he strides off with his scouts and sits around a small fire with them. From a distance, the party can see them talking excitedly to him as others gather nearby to listen in. More than a few others gather near the party's huts, simply observing the group - occasionally cocking their small furry heads from side to side as if very interested in something.

In time, a long time actually, Ploth again exits her hut and approaches Janger. This time, when they approach the group, the whole village follows. Ploth orders Flit & Gasgut taken into a hut - to be alone with her. As she joins them within, the gathered villagers begin a spirited chant, accompanied by rhythmic clapping and stomping. They make quite a bit of noise in this manner but now and then her voice can also be heard chanting loudly within the hut. After a short period of this, she emerges with arms raised. When she does, the others fall to their knees, place their palms over their eyes and then uncover them, spreading their arms wide. They seem quite joyful, yet, reverent, in doing this. They make a collective, "Ooooooooooohhhhhhh", sound. Within seconds, Flit hops out followed by Gasgut! Not only are they walking on their own power, they're both bright eyed and undamaged!!

However, in this moment of joy and surpass, Gunther cries out, "I've got it!" Holding up the metal orb he'd been toying with all along, there's a soft blue flash and then suddenly...

The party is again standing in the room beneath the stone dome - the one where the spiders were! Only this time, the sounds of the dabbers' camp can be heard, including their voices. Several of them are there with the party and others can be seen (Ghostlike) at the room's edge. A light breeze cools the room and the smell of dust fills the area. Its coming from above! The stone dome is being pried open. This time, it hadn't even been opened yet! A humanoid drops through the opening, gliding on leathery wings in a slow circle and finally landing on the floor. Unlike Aleax, this mutant has reptilian features and scales instead of skin. A forked tongue flicks out, tasting the air. Many ropes begin to fall through the opening and mutant faces can be seen above, peering down into the room. Without warning, the world starts to move faster and faster. The figures and the room begin to darken and blur. In a moment, the group seems to be standing in a new chamber. It is pie shaped and shelves line the walls. These shelves are piled with all manner of ancient devices. The smell of roasted flesh assaults everyone's noses (& snouts). Dead mutants lie about the room and there is the smoking wreckage of a robot in their midst. A longhaired but fairly well dressed human is sort of cowering by one of the shelves. A large muscular humanoid comes into view. He is shirtless but has an ammunition bandoleer across his chest. Most noticeably, his body is covered in light brown quills with dark tips. "Alright, Kipton", he spits with disdain, "we BOTH know its in here. Find it NOW!" The longhaired man's eyes dart about with fear, but then he gathers himself and says defiantly, "I told you before, I'd rather die. Shoot me now and get it over with." Chuckling under his breath, the quilled man steps forward and says, "I though you'd say that." Once he gets close enough, he brushes his forearm roughly against the man's throat - hard enough for the quills to draw blood. The man cries out and falls backward, holding his throat. However, within moments his demeanor changes. Inexplicably, he wipes the blood away with his sleeve and says, "My deepest apologies, lord. I serve only you, my master. Your servant begs forgiveness." Laughing deeply, the quilled man turns to face his fellow mutants. They nod smiling and walk forward to force the human to all fours. "Therrrrrrre", the quilled man says, "crawl behind me, slave." Nonchalantly, he strolls past the shelves, occasionally pausing to examine some item. Each time, he glances down at the prostrate Kipton and asks playfully, "Is it this one? THIS one perhaps...?" Eventually, the crawling human points to a small metal object on a lower shelf wrapped in some kind of thin transparent material. "There master", he says, "That will reactivate the Yorkum Tortel!"

The quilled man gingerly handles it for a few minutes while the human humbly remains on all fours. Finally, a slow and evil smile begins to spread across his large face. Holding it in his palm, he says, "Well done, slave – very well done. But there's so much MORE for you to do before your short pitiful life comes to an end." Turning to the others, he says boisterously, "Come! Let's be off to Ulmin!!"

At this point, the scene vanishes as Gunther drops the orb onto the ground! Shooting a gout of spark & flame, it spins in the dirt for a few moments before coming to rest. Spewing one last stream of sparks, the blackened object just lies there. The many dabbers widen the circle around the party - stepping backward in awe and wonder at what they've seen!

Janger, somewhat shocked, says, "N-Now... now I know who has caused this disturbance. Those you saw were from the Iron Society. I know of them - yes - but they have never traveled this far south before. I also know of the one that Kipton called 'Master'. He is known as Tok-Tog, and MANY call him master." Looking down and shaking his head, he mutters, "Poooor, Kipton. If only we could rescue him..."

Janger handles the 'dead' metal orb with curiosity before tossing it to Ploth.

Nodding, he says, "Of course, of course... I will tell of what I know. But first, let me say that I would not ask you to bring back our friend without something in return. You risked much when you entered the dome rock - we are grateful for that. Come, let me show you something." Turning, he leads the party to his cabin, accompanied by Ploth and what appear to be his best warriors. Upon entering, he opens a wooden chest and pulls out a small box-sized ancient device. Handing it to Gunther, he says, "We recovered this some time ago. I am told it is in good working order. Please, accept it as a measure of our gratitude and friendship. They call it a Meedi-kite, I think - I'm sure." Speaking to Gunther, he says, "You remind me of Kipton. I think you could make it work. It is of no worth to us."

Taking a seat in a small chair, carved from a gnarled tree stump, he says, "We often receive reports from traders to the north. This... this Tok-Tog - he is very dangerous. As you have seen, he has a unique gift. He can convert anyone, anyone at all, into his willing subject. They say it never wears off. He is said to head up a nasty faction within the Iron Society. They hate just about everyone and they especially loathe Jema Farb and any place that aspires to be like it. You know now that many communities wish this very thing for their peoples. Kokron's mighty hand reaches far and has touched many hearts. He has been rumored to have knowledge of the Yorkum Torkel. No one knows for sure what it is - only that it is a dormant ancient machine that could destroy a great city like Jema Farb in the wink of an eye. And Ulmin - this is the name for his secret base. All I can tell you is that it lies somewhere in the hills north of Jainus. I can provide a map to Jainus. I know its far - I myself have been there only once, and I can't say it was to my liking. Somehow, you must find the whereabouts of Ulmin, infiltrate it and capture Kipton. I doubt he will be a willing party to your rescue and Ulmin will be hidden and well guarded. To that end, I offer the following reward to help fortify your courage. You see, we have done well in our trading..."

(G.M. NOTE: At this point, I would like to suggest something. I can draw out this map, just as it would look to the characters, and mail it to everyone. If I mail it out on Saturday, you should all have it on Tuesday. Since I doubt anyone will object, please update your address in e-mail if I don't have your current one.)

"This is what I offer: In Gold Coin, I will pay 250 if Kipton is brought back alive. If you return within 30 days, I will pay a bonus of 100 to each of you who survives the expedition. If you destroy the Yorkum Torkel, and can prove it, I pay 200. If you return here with it intact, I pay 1000 to EACH OF YOU who bring it. Bring us Tok-Tog's head and I pay another bonus of 500."

Staring intently at the party, he asks, "Will you accept this quest?"

The next day, the party begins its journey to Jainus in the hopes of discovering the whereabouts of Ulmin and the brutal renegade, Tok-Tog.

Using Janger's map as a guide, the party sets off down the trail through this swampy country. The narrow path that leads north, to the Soul Besh Pond, is tempting. One can't help but be a bit curious as to what took place there yesterday. However, it is decided to stick with the task at hand and proceed along the main trail, which is generally a west-northwest direction.

(G.M. NOTE: When traveling, I will always assume that the party moves at Normal Speed. Optionally, the party can travel Slow or Fast. Slow is better to avoid traps and to notice things of value or interest. Fast is best for covering ground quickly but makes the group more vulnerable to ambush, traps, etc. & in some cases can use up rations and water in a hurry. Additionally, every speed category is affected by how much the party carries. Currently, everyone is unburdened except for two characters - Hagus and Vladimir. They are both burdened. Since the group must move at the speed of the slowest characters, the average travel distance will be about 16 km per day. If everyone were unburdened, it would be 24 but only 8 for Heavily Burdened. This is only significant if the group is facing a time limit but is also important for another reason; in wilderness settings like this one, random events/encounters are generated randomly for every day of travel. While some are beneficial, more often than not they are a threat of some kind. So, in a way, the slower the travel - in this kind of setting - the riskier. These #'s, 24/16/8 are for normal speed. Fast is 48/32/16 & Slow is 12/8/4. These figures also apply to Combat Time, by the way - they represent the number of meters you can move in a round or 1/2 that distance and still do an action. Whew - that's enough of that! Someday, I'll go ahead and post the Move Rate table on Particulars, I guess.)

Anyway, the party travels the better part of the day when something unexpected happens. There is some rustling in the brush off the trail followed by the surprising appearance of two large mutated rabbits - they're Floppsies! Leaping WELL over the party’s' heads, these 2.5 meter tall creatures burst from their cover and land on the trail about 15 meters ahead of the group! They wear well-tailored clothing of subdued grays and pastel greens. Wearing floppy hats and vests, they are quite a contrast to the militaristic dabbers that the group has become accustomed to. They wear longswords and daggers and also carry longbows, however. One of them hops forward about 4 meters and says, "I am Boosu." The other one also takes a hop forward, his ears and hat flopping as he does. "I am Mully.", the second one says in a friendly tone. "Who be you?"

Their noses twitch as they sniff the air...

The large rabbit named Mully responds to the gliding Lassiter by saying, "No, I'm afraid there are dangers ahead. We know why you come this way and we support your mission. This is why we speak to you now - to give warning. Be alert tomorrow when you near the Rocks. The King's hunters are sure to be lurking there. Beyond the Rocks, you'll have to watch for the Sky Raiders. They're ex-military and have a most foul disposition. It will take luck, skill and courage to complete your journey."

Seeing that the party has no interest in dialogue, the large information bearing bunnies shrug and bound off. With a few great leaps, they disappear into the swamp...

The next day's travel is largely uneventful as the party plods along the trail through the vast swamplands.

As the sun hangs low in the sky, however, something comes into view ahead. Above the trees can be seen tall monolithic stones, weathered with age and streaked with green algae. They must be some strange remnant of ancient civilization!

As the party draws closer (Moving another half Kilometer or so), they loom larger and larger - they must be at least 50 meters tall and at least 20 meters wide, and there are so many of them!

Gazing at these impressive relics, the party almost doesn't notice the sudden appearance of two figures that step onto the trail about 25 meters ahead. Short stubby badders, one of them bears a plastic full body shield with an ancient emblem emblazoned upon it. He wears a plate vest & helm and holds a steer's horn for blowing. His companion wears leather armor, holds a barbed net and also carries a lasso. The one with the horn calls out, "You there! Place your weapons on the ground and come forward. Do this NOW and you will live!"

Instead of complying with the badder's demand, Lassiter flies forward. Closing more than half the distance, he stops and hovers about 10 meters from the pair.

The one who spoke raises the horn about halfway, as if perhaps contemplating blowing it. The other one begins walking forward, preparing to toss the barbed net at the hovering bat.

As Gasgut comes forward, the closest badder begins eyeing him more than Lassiter. As armed conflict rapidly becomes obvious & inevitable, Gasgut draws his dagger and jogs forward a few steps to throw! The badder also moves forward at the quick step!

With better initiative, the badder tosses his net at Gasgut at Point Blank range! It opens out in flight and covers Gasgut's upper body - the weighted hooks whipping about and catching in his clothes, flesh & the net itself! Gasgut is tangled! Gasgut can't use his arms!

The second badder blows a mighty blast from his horn and, at the same moment, Lassiter turns invisible!

The one who threw the net over Gasgut pulls out a sap and prepares to knock him out! The other one, having dropped the horn, is moving up quickly to join his partner. He's drawn a wicked looking flail and is using the large plastic shield to very good advantage (As far as cover goes) due to his 1.5-meter height!

GASGUT IS IN TROUBLE!!

Ziber and Gunther step up, fighting to save Gasgut! Ziber claws the evil badder for 8 points of damage but hurts his mouth trying to bite his sword hilt - Ziber takes 3 points of damage! Two gunshots go off directly above and behind the badder! He is hit twice in the back for a total of 43 points. It is blown forward and falls dead!!

At the same time, Gasgut cuts his way through the tangling net and throws it off!

Aleax flies forward to Point Blank range and fires a bolt at the second one. Its using the tall body shield for cover! The cover effect reduces the damage by 15 points! The force of the impact turns the shield and the bolt still grazes his metal helm (denting it), though it is deflected!

A few meters back, Hagus takes cover and fires an arrow at the same badder, which narrowly misses!

Vladimir throws a dagger that strikes the plastic shield and bounces off!

The lone surviving badder slowly lowers the flail to the mossy ground, his dark beady eyes scanning the bloodthirsty heroes very carefully. As he does so, Aleax's dark wings spread wide as he glides to the ground near the bloodied body of the dead one (While deftly reloading).

No sooner do all of these things take place then sound can be heard on the trail ahead. Its more badders, and they're approaching quickly! Their secret snarling language can be heard through the trees, as can the rattle of armor and weapons - the sounds that at least half a dozen would make!

Cocking an ear slightly to the sound of his friends coming, the badder's eyes turn toward his weapon and his furry fingers flex. He too begins a slow snarl…

Ziber & Gunther go at the badder as Gasgut hurls a dagger at Point Blank range! This time, forced into melee, he can't use the shield as cover! Gasgut's dagger strikes him in the lower leg for 5 points of damage! Gunther's hammer attack misses the target and Ziber manages to get around the shield a bit and claw him for a total of 16 points but his plate vest is able (barely) to prevent the damage! Fighting to defend himself, he attacks Ziber with the flail but the nimble cat avoids damage!

Aleax successfully picks up the dropped sap and then takes the lasso off the dead badder's belt before readying again for flight!

That's when they come into view...

Down the trail, about 40 meters away, 4 badders are sighted. Three of them wear ringmail, carry med. wooden shields and have bolas at the ready. The fourth has the shield slung over his back and has a short bow ready. As they approach, it can be seen that there are 3 more behind them. Two of them have short bows ready and wear only leather armor while a third wears chainmail and has two flint-lock pistols drawn!

As soon as they see what's taking place, the 3 with the bolas begin moving fast to close with the party, swirling their bolas overhead! The other 4 also begin to advance, but much more slowly. "Keep the large ones alive!" the chainmailed badder calls out.

The badder fighting Gasgut bashes him with a grazing blow but the human's thick leathers prevent damage! Neither does Gasgut inflict damage with his sword attack!

From a tree branch 5 meters up, Aleax fires a crossbow bolt that sticks in the ground near an approaching badder!

Flit takes off and flies behind the approaching badders before turning 180 degrees!

The 3, bola, wielding badders run forward 30 meters before pulling up. They're now within ten meters of those on the ground and ready to throw!

The other 4 advance only about 10 meters but turn and draw their bows (And raise pistols) to confront Flit!!

Near the melee involving Gasgut and the flailing badder, Hagus has a good position behind cover from which to use his bow.

Evidently not wanting to endanger their fellow brigand, the bola swirling badders all toss their weapons at Vladimir, who is isolated on the trail! The shrouded man ducks as one flies over his head and deflects another one with his shield! The third one strikes him in the legs and the whipping weights cause 18 points of damage! Vladimir's leather armor prevents ten points and he deftly scoots out of being tangled! Spectacular!

The badder defending against the trio of Gunther, Gasgut and Ziber is near panic as he flails at the viscous cat but misses! Gunther smacks his breastplate (Clang!) for 8 points of damage! Likewise, Gasgut's sword sparks of the plate vest for 14 points of damage! (Bong!) But its the crazed cat that gets him. One of his raking paws is blocked by the shield but the other one lacerates him for 8 points of damage! Ziber locks his teeth on the large rodent's throat for Thirty (30) points of damage!!! Its lifeless body goes limp in Ziber's clutches!!

At the other end of the battle, Flit finds himself in trouble as the quick badders get the drop on him. Six arrows and 2 pistol shots are directed at the hapless hummingbird as he flutters in the open! Three arrows sail past Flit and both of the flintlocks miss the target! Another 3 strike him for a combined total of 94 points of damage! One of them pierces his wing and interferes with flight! Flit falls to the ground! Fortunately, VERY fortunately, Flit takes no damage from the short fall as the soft ground is a better than average place to smack upon.

A half a second later an arrow zooms past the chainmailed badder. A few seconds after that and one strikes him - Hagus hits the mark! Its at Short Range and it hits for 40 points of damage! The badder's chainmail stops 25 points! Almost simultaneously, a revolver shot goes off at Point Blank range above and behind the same badder! It's not that good of a shot but inflicts 9 points nonetheless. This badder is badly hurt! This badder is Slammed! He staggers forward 4 meters and is knocked down! This badder is Stunned for two (2) rounds!!

Ignoring the downed & crumpled bird, the three archers angrily whip about and prepare to fire arrows at the nearby invisible bat!

Growling, the three who threw the bolas step forward drawing melee weapons! Two of them have hand-axes and the third has a club!

The invisible Lassiter beats a hasty retreat as he reloads in a hurry! Six arrows are fired at him (Or at least where the 3 archers think he is)! While they fire, two arrows from Hagus zip past them! The barrage of arrows from the badders sail off into the swamp but one actually bounces off something in mid-air - its Lassiter! His leather fittings keep him from harm!

Aleax swoops around and down to the trail, landing behind the archers beside the Stunned chainmailed badder.

Vladimir makes an arm motion as if he's throwing something but then realizes he wasn't holding anything!

Gunther's hammer glances off the badder's shield who steps up to confront him! The badder hits him in the arm with his club! Gunther takes 1 point of damage (His heavy furs protect him some)!

Gasgut too is confronted with an advancing foe! The badder catches his sword with its shield and hits Gasgut with his hatchet. Gasgut's leathers prevent damage!

Ziber's leather gear also protects him form his opponent’s hand ax as he bites and claws at the enemy! Ziber claws him for 24 points of damage! The badder's ringmail armor stops 20 points! It takes 4 points and is stunned by the force of the cat's attack!!

Flit crawls to safety while the badders fire their bows at Lassiter!!

Two more arrows from Hagus strike their target! The retreating badder is hit for 32 points of damage. Its armor stops 10 but it still takes 22 points and falls dead!! The only remaining archer (Stunned on the ground) alive begins to get to his feet. Looking around, though, he doesn't go for his bow. Instead, he raises his stubby paws in surrender!

Vladimir, Gasgut and Gunther are STILL frustrated by the defense of their melee opponents and do no damage to them. (G.M. NOTE: Yes - you DO get an advantage when you attack from the side. You get an even better one from the rear. And yes - the shield is useless against an opponent on your right side when there's one also on the left!)

Glancing behind them as they make a fighting retreat, the two badders in melee see their fallen comrades and the surrendering archer. Seeing themselves surrounded and hopelessly outnumbered, they stop fighting and drop their weapons! Looking around them, their noses twitch nervously as they hold up their paws.

(At this point, I need to make clear the fact that the badders' armor is too small for the humanoid party members to effectively use. In addition, Lassiter, Flit, Aleax (& to some extent, Ziber) need custom gear. It has a gold value, though - about 25% of book value.)

Also, there have been several references to picking up this & that and its kind of confusing. What follows is a total list of their gear. I've already made note of several characters picking things up but this list is what their was BEFORE anyone grabbed anything: 4 M. Wooden shields, 3 Bolas, 1 ruined net, 2 Handaxes, 4 Suits of badder ringmail, 1 mace, 5 daggers, 3 shortbows, a sling, 18 sling bullets, 1 club, 1 sap, 1 lasso, 2 shortswords, 1 L. Plastic shield, 1 badder plate vest, 1 Flail, 3 suits of badder leather, 1 suit of badder chainmail, 3 one-shot pistols (W/Powder horn and 32 reloads), 118 arrows and one horn. As I mentioned, some of this stuff has already been claimed. If you want something, leave me e-mail NOW. If someone else also claims it, I'll let both players know so it can be worked out. I just want to move past this ASAP.

Lastly, to save time, Lassiter (Who becomes visible) and Aleax DO go overhead to have a look around. Its ahead, at the base of the great Stones that they locate the badders' camp. It is marked by a red banner on an iron pole that is decorated with chains and various skulls. There are 3 large tents there and a stew pot hanging over a small cooking fire. Tethered to stakes in the ground are two shaggy mules eating fodder from a trough. A brief search produces: A small clay pot with a sticky liquid inside, rations to last 9 dabbers for about 2 weeks, 2 wine kegs!, a wooden chest with chains, shackles and locks (w/keys) for 25 prisoners, a whip & 2 flogs, flint & steel and another metal flask just like the one Aleax took off the chainmailed badder!

The rest of the party can reach this area in about a minute. Its very close by.

As Gunther gathers up the shackles and chains, Aleax tests the potion out with one of the prisoners. The badder eagerly slurps at the flask and suddenly goes airborne! This badder can fly!!!

Rising above the party, it struggles to free itself from its rope bonds but begins to fly away nonetheless, to everyone's astonishment. That flask must hold a magic potion!!

(G.M. NOTE: So far, 4 characters have claimed items from the 'pile'. I have made very careful note of this and will update all PC sheets when the party moves on. So far, the only discrepancy is that both Aleax & Ziber want the lasso - although Aleax DID take it from the dead badder during the battle and so had it first. The other detail is that Gunther will need Aleax's bolts from the crossbow as arrows are of no use!)

Snapping his head around, Gunther holds the chains as he watches the prisoner escape!!

Tracking the badder's flight, Hagus looses an arrow at short-range that hits for 32 points of damage! Wearing no armor, the struggling badder is killed instantly. The second arrow misses the mark but it hardly matters as the lifeless creature begins to lower at a fairly rapid pace. The two remaining prisoners look on with fear and dread.

The captive badders are definitely intimidated by Aleax's threats. One of them, in fact, does speak up. "We guard trail to the King's Island! The Stones have been added to His kingdom! NOW you trespass and we are shamed!"

The speaking badder answers Gasgut saying, "The guard changes in ten days. The King's Island is six days' march up the north trail - there." He indicates the direction with his eyes. There IS another trail leading north from these Stones in addition to the one leading east. Apparently sensing an opportunity to be spared, the badder makes a suggestion. "Perhaps you wish to go, yes? We could guide you - make it safe!"

The speaking badder's eyes go wide as the bat begins to dine upon his bodily fluids. "For 15 generations, the Kings of the Red banner have made their home on Bokkum Goll. Is finest Prison Island in the Thazer frontier! The peoples of Jainus make pact with our clan. They pay to house worst criminals and bandits - keep Jainus clean! King Juba-Red him even hire spell-slinger for extra help. Him human, like summa you! NOBODY escape from Bokkum Goll! Jainus pays good!!" Looking around at his captors, he says, "Of course we take you there!"

Somewhere in between the dialogue, the badder answers Aleax's continued questioning. "The eastern road used by villages trading with Jainus. It is mostly clear but for last two years, Skrawk's Raiders been busy in the area. Looking for meat mostly. They breed good - farm bad. Ambush River get name from loooong time ago when Jainus first was built. Mostly safe now but IS pretty good place for ambush!"

Seeing another chance, he adds, "Hairless round-ear is right - no one runs from here! YOU could let us go when you go. King Juba-Red him think we all dead. Pretty good plan, huh?"

The other badder, fearing for his life, answers Gunther. "We make good mud packs an things. Spuffer, him know lots bout mending bones an such. Now him gone to Great Den. But I watch him all the time! I can do his things! Let us travel with you and we will help this way!!" Not seeming too interested, Gunther leaves the dejected prisoners in chains as the sun slowly sets into the swampy tree line.

During the night, Gasgut's small fire casts a glow upon the skull-laden banner of the badder patrol as the swamp insects and birds make their usual chorus of nightly noise. However, some time near dawn, the sleeping party is rudely stirred awake as the badders' chains rattle, they whimper and even cry out in pain. "Stop! Nooooooo!" They howl. Looking in their direction, all that can be seen is the dark outline of Aleax crouch near them and the glint of a dagger blade in the firelight.

(G.M. NOTE: The status of the last badder (I thought they were both dead!) can be decided anytime along this travel or even in past tense - I careth not.)

The next morning, the journey continues. For another 16 (Roughly) kilometers, the party enjoys rather uneventful travel along the Thazer road. However, late in the day, a road leading south is happened upon that corresponds with the southern path marked on Janger's Map - the one leading to Troacar. Opting to press forward, the group makes camp a short distance past that point.

The next day's march brings the group to the point along Ambush River often referred to as Seroon Narrows. A deep and steep walled canyon looms over the rushing torrent of the river at its bottom, which surges over multiple falls some 100 meters below. A long and well-built stone bridge spans the chasm. Its moss-draped masonry is a welcome sight when contemplating any other means of traversing the Narrows. Other than the sturdy bridge, there is nothing else of interest here and the party decides to press on. However, all day long a storm has been brewing overhead and it gets darker by the hour. In addition to that, fine droplets of precipitation begin to land upon the travelers and it is soon noticed that this moisture is highly acidic. As a full-blown thunderstorm becomes imminent, the increasingly aggravating nature of the water and the odd ochre colored thunderheads bode ill. This could be an Acid Storm approaching. They are known to blow in from the Soul Waters every few years but are almost always said to be further east than this. Such storms are rumored to lay waste to large areas of land, killing much of the flora & fauna with high intensity acidic rainfall for sustained periods. As the winds begin picking up, the party is forced to decide what to do...

As the acidic rain begins to rapidly start coming down, the party begins taking damage!! Cries, shrieks and howls can be heard from deep in the surrounding swampy woods and, through the driving rain, birds can be seen taking flight in every direction! All around, plants begin shriveling and curling up and the two shaggy mules begin braying and pacing in an increasingly frantic manner!

Gasgut's quick thinking is sound. Moving the group close to the base of the bridge, his idea of driving stakes and otherwise tying off ropes seems feasible. In addition, it quickly becomes clear that this chemical rain only reacts to living tissue so the ropes are safe from the burning effect.

Those trying to hold onto the mules are having an increasingly difficult time as they are beginning to buck and pull violently upon their tethers!

Using ropes, stakes, etc. (Even including exposed metal supports from the bridge's own structure), the party CAN position itself to literally hang on the steep bank beneath the bridge until the storm passes. (G.M. NOTE: This will require a ST check to avoid falling into the torrent below but only a Black Res. will be a failure as certainly everyone will help everyone else. In addition, the chains can be used. So far, EVERY party member has taken 5 points of damage from this driving acid rain!!!)

The party members cling to Gasgut's rigged rope and chain line as the storm lays waste to the countryside! The two mules panic! Snapping their tethers they buck and run, trying in vain to find cover from the acid water that's killing them. One of the mules looses sight of the canyon edge and the party watches helplessly as it's hooves slip and it tumbles down the steep embankment to the rushing rapids below. The second one simply runs back down the trail, and it fades into the swamp - it's cries becoming more and more distant...

Hanging on for what seems like an eternity, all are able to keep their grip except for Ziber, who is able to hold on with Gasgut's help after VERY nearly slipping away to a watery grave!

After about an hour, the rains do subside and everyone is able to claw and pull their way back into the open. A great steamy mist blankets the landscape reducing visibility to no more than a few meters as everyone checks themselves and their gear. Sadly, there is no sign of either pack mule and all plant life within sight is shriveled and withered.

Able to move at a slow pace, the party wearily crosses the bridge and journeys for another hour. Its a poor camp that is made this night as its difficult to build a decent fire and the visibility is so poor.

The next day, the fog does not lift. It gets worse! An incredibly thick blanket of fog envelopes the entire region reducing visibility to ZERO! The party loses a day's travel!!

As morning comes round again, the mists have (Thankfully) lifted and movement toward Jainus resumes. As the river region is left behind, the effects of the localized storm gradually diminish and the landscape slowly begins to look more normal. During this sixth day of travel, it is noticed that high overhead (About 1000 meters) large hawks circle. Its isn't clear why but they can be seen off and on all day. They never descend, however, and so aren't a factor when...

In mid-afternoon, something approaches rapidly from the direction of Jainus. Its moves so quickly that Lassiter's forward position gives no meaningful warning to the others. It’s a hovering open-air ancient vehicle (About 8 meters long and 4 meters wide)! Riding inside are 4 PSH men. 2 in front and 2 behind them. One seems to be piloting the craft while the other three sport impressive looking rifles! In fact, as it comes into view, one in the rear (The only one wearing armor - its a suit of ancient style plastic armor) raises a gauntlet hand and calls out, "Stop here!" The craft's forward motion quickly ceases and it descends to touch the ground. Standing in the vehicle, the armored man hails the party, "Greetings, travelers." He says with a warm smile. "What brings you this way?" His three fellows hold their rifles upright and not in any threatening manner.

The armored man slings his rifle, steps forward and shakes Gasgut's hand. Another one, with rifle pointed down, follows to his side. The other two take up defensive positions within the hovercar, carefully surveying the surrounding swamp and the sky.

"My name is Sekland Moore and I am thankful to be LEAVING Jainus! Mind that you keep from trouble there - I warn you. I have traveled far to meet my cousin, Maurus Stills, who has dedicated his life to the Brotherhood of Thought. They have established a mission within Jainus to spread the word of Kokron's return. A noble calling to be sure but not in the eyes of the Iron Society. They are a poisonous lot and make a business of framing innocent political opponents and anyone else who questions their ways. The Grennish townsfolk do not favor their presence but they are law abiding citizens outwardly and have contributed much to the town's growth and reputation as a trade center." Looking past Gasgut, he eyes the chained badder, and asks with a slight smile, "So, you've encountered that bastard King's thieves, eh? Is that how your friend suffered his wounds? Well, its a fine deed you've done. I travel to this island of King Juba-Red to ransom the freedom of my cousin. My hope is that its simply a matter of paying more than the Iron Society did to have him framed by those cursed badder slavers. That vile and wicked prison should be torn down and all within set free. No one deserves the hellish life of a prisoner within its walls and I suspect most are forced slaves anyway. I can not believe the spineless Grens who look the other way in the name of 'security'. It disgusts me. The peace that The Brotherhood would bring to the town may soon be replaced with a bloodbath, I fear."

Looking at the badder again, he says, "Why don't you let me take that off your hands. Its not much but may be helpful in bargaining in Juba's court. While I can't turn back now, I have some recently purchased majiks that will certainly aid your feathered friend. I would give it to brave travelers such as yourself anyway but, in this case, we could call it a trade. You'd certainly be helping me and I won't forget that should our paths cross again. What do you say?"

Sekland ponders Hagus' point thoughtfully as he looks the badder up and down. "Yes," he says slowly, "I suppose the King would seek vengeance if he knew who it was that slew his soldiers and I am sure they have the means of extracting such information." Frowning, he nods up and down with folded arms, purses his lips and then says, "Oh well, he's yours to keep. But here..." Turning, he extends a hand back toward the car and one of the men hands him a cork stoppered blue glass bottle with an effervescent fluid inside. "As I said, you have done a noble deed and I respect your courage." Stepping forward, he crouches beside Flit. Stroking his fine head feathers, he gently places the bottle beside him on the ground. Rising, he turns to the party and says, "When he's ready, let him drink the whole thing. It will do much good for the little fellow." Stepping back into the car, he turns and pauses, saying, "That badder... I wouldn't bring it into Jainus."

As Gunther pokes about the hovercraft, the two rifle bearing men inside pay him little heed. They continue to survey the area, watching and listening for any sign of threat. In fact, they don't even seem to be paying attention to Sekland's dialogue.

As Hagus hesitantly poses his questions, Sekland listens patiently and prepares to answer when Aleax chimes in. At that point, the armored man raises an eyebrow and responds. "Tok-Tog, eh? I know of him. I had to buy information in Jainus to learn of Marus' fate and that's how I learned of him. He 's a renegade even among his own kind. As I said, there is a delicate social balance within that community that no one wants disturbed. However..." He pauses and seems to be thinking. Narrowing his blue eyes, he says, "Since you hunt for Tok-Tog, and not, I sense, with much liking, you might receive the aid you seek from his superior within the local Iron Society. Their leader, it seems, only rarely visits Jainus but you can find a Lord at Newman Hall." He draws a simple sketch in the soft earth of the trail, indicating the building called Newman Hall. "The one you must speak with is called Ill... Illiey... Illkili... Oh, I can't remember. You'll know him when you see him."

Sitting finally, he instructs the pilot to move on. As the craft again rises, he says to the party, "Farewell, my friends. Keep your powder dry. I hope that our paths cross again one day." As the car speeds off, Sekland turns and calls back, "Watch your baaaaaaaaaacks...." His armored hand can be seen waving as the car fades from view.

As these words are contemplated, sounds of whimpering and cries of pain draw everyone's attention. It seems that Aleax has the chained badder against a tree and is tormenting him again with his dagger. The pitiful creature begs and pleads but the dark skinned elf ignores his cries and continues the torture.

The party finishes the day's travel and yet another without event.

On the eighth day, by all accounts, Jainus should be reached before sundown. Setting out early, barely a single kilometer is crossed when something is sighted up ahead. Clearly, Lassiter has the best view but Hagus can see it well too. About 40 meters ahead of Lassiter, there appears to be a wounded bird on the trail. Its flapping its wing as if trying to take flight. Its some kind of intelligent, mutant hawk. Its equipped for travel and even wears an old faded military uniform of some kind.

There is no sign of anything else in the area...

As Lassiter hovers 40 meters from the downed hawk, it becomes apparent, even from the bird's standpoint that the 'column' is disbursing and moving off the trail.

Within moments of this process beginning, something rolls out from under its wing and begins spewing a THICK green smoke - and plenty of it! Within seconds, the wounded hawk is completely obscured by the roiling green cloud!

As the party sets up and waits, (Most not knowing what the others are doing) the green smoke continues to billow up ahead of Lassiter...

Within about 30 seconds, the sounds of angry screeching can be heard and then 9 hawkoids appear overhead - they scan the trees below as party members open fire!

A revolver shot goes off in the brush as Ziber shoots at one (From Medium Range) and misses!

From his treetop position, Aleax shoots two arrows at one of the hawks but both miss!

From a crouched position in the foliage, Gunther fires a crossbow bolt that sails past the target!

Gasgut fires 1 arrow that misses and then breaks the string on his bow when he draws it a second time. His bow has been rendered useless!

From his well-concealed position, Hagus fires two arrows that both miss. The second one misses badly and Hagus has some kind of a accident as he accidentally injures himself. Hagus takes 2 points of damage!

The hovering hawkoids, arrows whizzing past them, take notice of those who fire and prepare to return the favor with bows and javelins!

If all of this weren't enough, a winged warrior bursts from the smoke cloud. Its the 'wounded' hawkoid and it attacks Lassiter with a sword in each hand!! Lassiter tries to fend it off. He does a decent job and his armor helps but Lassiter still takes 8 points of damage!!

From somewhere in the trees, the badder lets out what sounds like a dying cry..

The hawkoid trying to kill Lassiter misses the small bat badly, using both of his swords. That bat got damn lucky!!!

As Ziber grabs up the flask and gulps down its contents, Two arrows from Aleax, a bola from Gasgut and a sling bullet from Valdimir all sail past their fluttering targets! The hawkoids fight back with an Ariel barrage!

One of them takes a disliking to Hagus' hidden posture and shoots two arrows at him. Both of them miss and stick into the earth near the well-concealed mutant.

Another one sights Gasgut trying to make his way through the tangled foliage toward Lassiter. As soon as he pauses to throw the bola, this hawk shoots two arrows at the hard-fighting Gasgut. Both miss badly but, nonetheless, this particular hawkoid seems quite skilled with a bow and it also wears a faded military uniform like the one that's about to kill Lassiter. This one even looks like he might have suffered burn damage in the past as he's quite scarred.

A third bow wielding bird targets Gunther with two arrows! One narrowly misses and the other is deflected by his large shield!

A lone hawkoid hurls a javelin down upon Vladimir but it hits a tree instead!

Two more target Ziber for Javelin attacks and one hits him but is deflected by his leather armor!

The remaining 3 all hurl javelins at Aleax! One misses and another misses badly! In fact, the bad miss is so bad that the hawkoid looses it balance and its remaining javelins fall to the ground! The third one hits, though. Some tree branch cover reduces the damage as does Aleax's armor. Aleax takes 8 points of damage!

The 3 that threw javelins at Aleax look like they might want to melee with him now...

Hagus' bowstring snaps as he draws it! Now HIS bow is rendered useless too!! The hovering hawkoid facing him shoots two arrows back but still can't hit the well-covered Hagus! Drawing a mace, its now coming down to melee!!

Vladimir steps up and slings a bola at the one who threw a javelin at him! The bola wraps up the hawk and it becomes tangled! The hawkoid falls to the ground and takes 6 points of damage! The hawkoid is stunned! The hawkoid is Critically injured (Broken wing)!

Aleax drops down to avoid melee this round but the agile hawks follow and close. Aleax is now faced with 3 hawkoids in melee! Flit appears out of the trees and lands on a limb near Aleax's position, chirping loudly!!

Gunther fires a crossbow bolt up at the hawk menacing him but misses again, while it again misses with arrows (And AGAIN one is deflected by the large shield)!

As Gasgut and Ziber cut to Lassiter's position, they are trailed by 3 javelin tossing hawkoids! Gasgut is missed just as he comes up beneath the uniformed swordmaster and throws his dagger! Gasgut's dagger bounces off the creature as if by magic!

Ziber is grazed by two javelins for 14 points. His armor prevents 10 points of damage! Ziber claws and bites at the hawkoid (And this allows Lassiter to escape) but can not seem to damage it. It ruthlessly counter attacks, slashing Ziber with its swords! Ziber suffers 54 points of damage! Ziber is stunned!!

Flit hums loudly - annoyingly so! - as the three hawkoids quickly move in on Aleax! PSHOOOO! PSHOOOO! Aleax discharges two one shot pistols at the last possible second! Two of the hawkoids are hit! Both of them are knocked down and stunned! (Their armor prevented any lethal damage but the force of the impact was enough to temporarily incapacitate both birds!) The third one (Not Distracted by Flit's humming) grazes Aleax with a sword thrust but his armor prevents all damage!

As Gunther carefully sights on the one hovering 20 meters above him, it shoots two more arrows at him! One arrow misses wide and again, another is deflected by that damn shield! On the other side of the trail, Hagus attacks the hawk that lands for melee but misses badly. It smacks Hagus hard with its mace for 30 points of damage! Hagus' armor stops 15 points! Valdimir closes and throws a dagger at Point Blank range that hits the fighting hawk but its armor protects it and the dagger glances off!

Further ahead on the trail, Lassiter is ignored as he hovers in concentration and two of the hawkoids break off (One of them is the other uniformed one)! These two turn and fly low and fast to land beside the downed one with the broken wing. Its screeching in pain! However, one hawk stays back, draws a sword and prepares to cut the Stunned cat's throat but Ziber Heroically recovers to defend himself! In the brief struggle, the hawkoid's sword is driven into a tree trunk and breaks!! The blood-soaked cat lives for now!!

At the head of the trail, Gasgut has the swordmaster's undivided attention! The hawkoid misses with one sword and slices the human's armor with the second. Gasgut escapes damage! Fighting back, he strikes the uniformed brigand for 39 points of damage! (Its armor stops 15 points and some other force {Forcefield, Majik?} prevents an additional 10 points!) The hawkoid suffers 14 points of damage and screeches loudly!!

The swordmaster hawkoid tries to disengage from Gasgut as it shrieks at him! Gasgut appears terrified for a moment, but only for a moment as he catches it with a wide arcing slash before its out of range! The bird suffers another 14 points of damage! Its seriously wounded!!

Keeping its distance from Ziber, another hawk tries to strike terror in the cat's mind with an intimidating screech! Ziber is unaffected!!

The hawkoid battling Gunther does this too - they're ALL screeching horrifically!! Gunther ignores it and shoots but misses AGAIN!!

Vladimir and Hagus both strike glancing blows on the warring hawk that faces them but don't inflict any lethal damage!

Aleax easily and swiftly knocks one of the Stunned hawkoids unconscious as another goes for his back with a sword! Just at the moment it thrusts, the sword *blinks* from its hand and reappears in Flit's tiny hand! The dejected hawkoid looks up at Flit with a frown.

On the trail, the second uniformed hawk and a partner lift off, carrying the critically injured hawk into the air and over the trees! With a limp neck, the wounded hawk cries out as they fly.

Pointing his fine sword at the wounded hawkoid hovering over him Gagsut yells, "Come get some MORE!"

Aleax knocks out the second Stunned hawkoid while the weaponless one runs across the ground and picks up a javelin! Vladimir, Hagus and the lone hawk battle on without effect! Gunther's opponent drops quickly to land and engage the human in melee! The one facing Ziber turns and arcs downward, coming in behind Gasgut from the rear as he shouts at the wounded one - Gasgut barely dodges its sword!

Able to make it to safety, Ziber looks on (As does Lassiter) while Gasgut finds himself fighting a fresh opponent AND the wounded one which comes back down! Gasgut isn't wounded but he looses his grip and his sword flies out of his hand, landing a few meters away!

Gunther and his foe melee on the ground with no effect! As do Hagus, Vladimir and their opponent! The Hawk facing Aleax battles him with a javelin and the elf fight s back with his sap - neither gets the advantage!

THE BATTLE RAGES!!! Gasgut fights his way back to his sword and successfully retrieves it, despite fending off two birds! Gunther's opponent hits him with its mace. Gunther's furs stop 5 points of damage! Gunther takes 5 points of damage! The hapless pair of Hagus and Valdimir still can't get an edge on the hard-swinging bird they face! Aleax's opponent drops its javelin and simply tries to peck at the dark elf! Aleax, strikes it hard upon its head and

Knocks it out! Its leather cap doesn't help!!

Coming in over the treetops, the two hawkoids that carried off the hurt one have returned!! Drawing swords, they both head for Aleax!

TSHOOO! Aleax discharges his third pistol at the uniformed hawkoid (At the last second) when it descends to fight! Its armor prevents all damage, but it is Stunned and Staggered by the grazing shot! The second one attacks with its sword but only strikes the barrel of the raised pistol that Aleax holds up in defense - Clinnggg!

Hagus and the hawkoid trade attacks ineffectually and then Vladimir brilliantly ensnares the thing with his net! It is completely Entangled, takes 5 points of damage in its struggle and even hits a nearby tree and is Stunned!

Fantastic use of a net!!

Gunther and his opponent fight w/o effect!

Gasgut is cut for 8 points of damage as he fights his two foes!

In the midst of Fighting, Aleax becomes stunned for no apparent reason!

Hagus and Valdimir are able to subdue the netted bird and hold it to the ground as Gunther and his foe continue their stalemating battle across the trail.

Gasgut and his opponents continue their ongoing sword battle when...

Bam! The uniformed hawkoid knocks out the Stunned dark elf with the hilt of his sword! Holding the elf's limp body, he screeches out for all to hear! While his partner keeps an eye on Flit, he calls out, "Stop! STOP! STOP the fighting! Stop it now or I cut his throat! Let us collect our wounded and we will begone!! Stop it or I KILL HIM!"

Gasgut slowly walks backward toward Hagus, Valdimir (And Gunther more or less) while holding his sword at the ready. Putting his back to a tree, he says to the birds, "I don't know what we've done to warrant an attack but now you know we can defend ourselves. Leave us and don't return but let that elf go! Do it now while we're feeling generous!"

The five surviving birds flock together while the one that Valdimir has pinned down screeches from its net! Two of them begin splashing water on the 3 that lie Knocked Out on the ground, crowing at them to wake up!!

Gasgut says to Valdimir, "Let that bird out of the net. We're trying to make a deal here!" Gasgut then slowly begins approaching the five that surround Aleax. "Okay", he says, "now let him go!"

The uniformed hawkoid looks never takes its eyes off Hagus, ignoring Gunther's friendly approach. As Hagus' countdown nears zero, it releases the elf - Aleax's body tumbles to the ground.

The hawk starts walking forward, accompanied by the other four. Speaking to Hagus (As it passes Gunther), it says, "Let him out. We will leave."

The other three are sitting up and coming too...

The hawkoids collect themselves up and fly off! But not before the uniformed one that Gasgut cut up says his piece. "You've bested us YES! But know you this - you walk through OUR country and nevermore will we bow to humanoids. Your kind will always PAY!!"

With that, they fly off screeching - as inexplicably as their attack!

Ziber spends a while licking his wounds and even passes out for a little while afterward. As Gunther and Vladimir look about the area, Aleax comes around and, except for a headache, he's fine.

After about an hour, it seems Ziber has strangely healed up a bit and is ready to travel. So, moving on, the group marches for the better part of the day until Jainus is finally sighted ahead!

Situated on the bank of a wide river, the hill country can be seen on the other side - an inviting change from the now familiar swamplands. Jainus itself is not that large (Population of approx. 1000 citizens) but appears prosperous and peaceful. Broad fields surround the town and farms, cottages and barns dot the area as the party draws close to the city gates. The town proper is on a wide rise in the land and is surrounded by impressive earthworks and fortifications cut from rough-hewn timber.

The dominant race of Orlens have done a good job here of carving a community from the wilderness. Though a peaceloving lot, their large size and numbers must be a fairly effective deterrent from organized raids in the area. The tall wooden gates are observed by the Jainus Guard but those entering aren't stopped or questioned. Once inside, much more can be seen of this interesting community. There is a central fortified Keep in the center of town that is constructed from stone, is three stories high and is designed for the Orlen's physical stature. Its ivy covered walls rise impressively above the roofs and chimneys of the housing that surrounds it in different directions.

There is a well-ordered market here - dealing heavily in farm products, domesticated animals, meats, wagons, woodwork, armor, weapons, tools, traveling/adventuring gear and solar battery chargers and power systems. There is a minor broadcast power set-up here as well - 100% solar powered. A rather ingenious fish farm is operated within the city walls too. Water is pumped uphill from the river and feeds an intricate winding canal that also supplies water to a large garden & park area blooming with all manner of exotic plants. Its quite fascinating.

Four particularly interesting buildings are 1) A popular tavern amongst visitors called Slivkin's. All sorts of mutants are eating and drinking there. Its owned and operated by a talkative mutated wasp. 2) The sheriff’s office and jailhouse. Rather featureless, it garners the party's attention when a large wooden wagon is sighted nearby attended by 4 badder slavers. It seems that they are preparing to load a chained prisoner for a one-way trip to King Juba-Red's island. 3) A restored ruin of the ancients. This low and wide building is surrounded by trees and a bit too much wild growth compared to the well-kept look of the rest of the city. There is no outward indication of the building's function or purpose but it fits the description of the Iron Society headquarters that Sekland described. 4) A rather plain but columnar austere structure houses a bakery. Its monk-like occupants likewise fit the description proved by Sekland of the Brotherhood of Thought. In fact, as the party passes nearby this structure, some of the Brotherhood notice the wounded party members and come out to the street with wash basins, bandages and food. Saying little, they offer welcome comfort from the hardship of the trail and administer soothing attention to the wounded travelers along with a simple meal. When they do speak, they merely welcome you to Jainus and make mention of the Hope of Kokron's message and that they hope you will carry it in your hearts. The call the building The Triune.

Lastly, there IS a city militia here. Its simply referred to as the Guard or Jainus Guard. Roughly 400 strong, it is comprised entirely of trained Orlens. Their banner symbol is that of a flaming sword crossed over a green wreath on a black field. They are armed with Tech II & Tech III weaponry and appear capable.

The party has ample time for a brief tour of the markets before they close. Several transactions are concluded by Aleax & Hagus as Gunther examines some ancient weaponry for sale. This episode being quite brief and uneventful, Aleax heads for the building known to house the Iron Society. Thinking it best to follow him, the others do so.

Upon arrival, the 3 humans keep back a bit as the other 5 approach with Aleax in the lead. Drawing near, some dark clothed figures slowly emerge from the columnar front of the building. All three are humanoid and dressed in black leather armor. One of them is larger than man-sized, a second has four arms and the third wears a head wrap not unlike that of Vladimir - but this individual's eyes glow somewhat beneath the wrappings. These three eye the approaching characters warily and look past them to the humans with disdain.

Pushing through the wild growth that partially conceals the structure, they come forward. The one with the concealed face asks with a gruff voice, "Whadda ya want?"

(G.M. NOTE: In each case, these three figures have 'personalized' leather armor that sports chains, extra buckles and spiked shoulder pads. This doesn't really impart extra protection in game terms but it imparts a generally menacing anti-social look. In addition, the two with exposed faces have tattoos on their hands and neck. In fact, they share an identical tattoo of a hammer.)

The shrouded one looks down at Ziber's paw and then slowly back up. As he does so the four-armed mutant comes closer and seems to study the cat for a brief moment.

The one that Ziber spoke to then looks to the four-armed mutant but that one just shakes his head and says nothing.

A robed figure appears in the dark doorway behind the three figures. "I am Illyki", a voice says. "Come within and speak now." An arm extends from the robe and points to the 3 humans standing nearby. "Watch them", is all the robed humanoid says.

That same arm beckons the party to enter. Following this figure inside, the 5 are lead into a featureless room with some benches along the wall and an ivy-draped window that lets in very little light. There is a leather & wooden chair in which Illyki seats himself as he pulls back his robe. His appearance is most striking as his flesh is completely transparent! At first this is difficult to view as muscles, veins, eyeballs, etc. are quite distracting. In addition, he has four legs and a forked tongue! His only possession seems to be a simple dagger upon his belt.

Once all are seated, he says, "You are strangers here yet you know of this place and of me. State your purpose and... I warn you - attempt no 'trickery' or deception with me. I see all."

Illyki stands and abruptly draws his dagger as Aleax mentions Tok-Tog but seems to relax considerably as he continues with the request for information.

The transparent fleshed mutant begins pacing a bit, his four legs making for an odd stepping motion. Spinning, he throws his dagger into a wooden beam that runs up run one wall - Doyoyoyoyoinnggg. "You DO know much about us it seems. Yes, Tok-Tog is in hiding with his gang and they are plotting madness." He studies the group for a few moments, noticing the wounds, bandages, torn clothing, etc., that is clearly evident. "I can see you're on a mission and yes - we CAN work together. You understand, of course, that 'officially' I can render no aid of any kind." Lowering his voice, he looks out of the window as if concerned that someone might hear. "Looking back he says softly, "I can tell you that Ulmin is an ancient underground ruin. In the Old days, it was an underground transportation system. Such places are not that uncommon but this one is well suited for his needs. It is located between the Tipped Canoe River and Lake Tarote, very near the Prow. On the eastern shore of the lake, look for a stone marked with the symbol of the Hammer. More marked stones will lead to the caves that house their den."

Walking to the wall, he jerks his dagger from the wooden beam, flicking his forked tongue as he does so. Still holding it, he says, "One thing's for certain. You're in no shape to take on Tok-Tog and his gang. Most of you need medical attention and... I don't think you are well enough equipped."

Walking to the door, he concludes the meeting by saying, "This, however, is not my concern. You mustn't remain in Jainus. I know what must be done and I wish you success. Such words are bitter herbs to swallow and your presence pains me." Motioning for the party to exit, he says, "Be about your business and, however you do it, do it quickly."

The party leaves town and travels past sunset to camp away from the local fields.

Its now the next day...

The sun crosses the sky without incident on this, the 9th day of the adventure.

Everyone, except for Hagus, is able to enjoy a complete day of rest and recuperation. Flit hops from one wounded party member to the next, checking bandages, cleaning wounds and making up poultices from the mud of a nearby creek. He gets quite a bit of rest himself too.

Near sundown, Hagus finally returns with a good-sized wild fowl. After cleaning and dressing it, the meaty bird cooks up nicely over Gasgut's fire as the sun dips below the trees. Lassiter, and especially Flit, are forced to seek nourishment from nearby fruit trees and the nuts & berries among the captured badders' rations.

(G.M. NOTE: For a complete day of rest (With Flit's assistance), the following characters regain Hit Points: Lassiter gains 3 HP, Gasgut gains 6 HP, Vladimir gains 10 HP, Gunther gains 10 HP, Aleax gains 5 HP, Flit gains 10 HP and the hardy Ziber gains 12 points.)

The night passes quietly and the sun then dawns on the 10th day...

Gasgut restrains the anxious winged elf and the party remains at the campsight another day...

(G.M. NOTE: With Flit's continued First Aid attention, healing occurs as follows: Lassiter heals 6 points, Hagus heals 10 Points, Gasgut is completely healed up as is Vladimir & Gunther, Aleax heals 5 points, Flit puts some bad moss under his bandages and doesn't heal at all and Ziber heals 6 points.

The party has the rations on hand to remain here for up to two weeks - considerably longer should Hagus' hunting prove fruitful. The problem is that the group isn't equipped for a long-term stay. Without tents or some kind of temporary shelter, exposure/sickness can start to become a problem for the humans and the mutated humans. You can only sleep on the ground in this environment for so long before CN checks start happening. This is a seasoned group of outdoorsmen who are used to a rugged existence so this isn't really a problem right now. All I'm saying is that it can become an issue eventually.)

The 11th day arrives, heralded by a chorus of wild birdcalls from deep within the swamp. Somewhere in the distance, a dog is barking...

A third day is spent at the isolated campsight without incident or event.

Flit continues his First Aid actions and is more careful when tending to himself! Lassiter heals 3 points, Hagus heals 5 points, Aleax is now fully recovered, Flit does much better - healing 10 points and Ziber recovers 6 points.

(G.M. NOTE: The characters still in a wounded state are: Lassiter - down 6 points, Hagus - down 7 points, Flit - down 7 points and Ziber - down 33 points.)

Day 12 arrives with a light rain falling...

As the rain patters down through the leaves, three creatures leap into the party's midst by surprise! They are Hukreel (Giant toads - dark slimy green with black spots along their back and powerful biting jaws. They are not that uncommon in these swamps. Weighing about 70 kg, they consider most moving lifeforms to be potential food.)

Before anyone can react, they attack the 5 party members resting upon the ground! One of them snaps at Hagus and misses! One bites Vladimir and another gnaws on Ziber but their armor protects them for now! Their thrashing legs kick up muddy soil and knock sticks from Gasgut's sputtering fire.

Lassiter and Flit leave their perches as the toads surprise the group! Lassiter flaps upward, about 10 meters while Flit successfully Distracts the toad snapping at Vladimir!

Gasgut flings a dagger at the Toad chasing Hagus! It hits but only nicks the slimy beast and its thick knobby hide prevents any meaningful damage.

Ziber scratches and bites at the one confronting him but it tucks its head back, batting its solid black eyes, and Ziber's strikes miss!

Evidently, Gasgut's dagger throw had some slight beneficial affect, however, as the thing reacts to it while attacking Hagus and hits its head on a tree! The toad takes 2 points of self-inflicted damage!

The one biting at Ziber seems a bit intimidated as it doesn't bite the cat either.

Effectively Stunned by Flit's distraction, the toad facing Vladimir is easily netted. With a quick and strong jerk, Vladimir seals up the net around the thing and it thrashes helplessly inside! (G.M. NOTE: Actually, using muscle powered missile weapons is not allowed when engaged in melee - see Gobron History & 'More Gun Rules' - but Flit's Distraction made it possible. I rolled randomly to see which one he distracted since he wouldn't say. In this

case, it was just luck that it was Vladimir's. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have been able to throw the net!)

Ziber goes wild, clawing his toadyish foe for 8 points of damage and then biting it for 25 points! Its eyes bug out and its gooey tongue extends from it toothy mouth as the cat's fangs Crunch into the back of its neck! Its dead!!

The rest of the party comes to Gasgut's aid as the dizzy toad turns to go at him (Evidently forgetting about Hagus...). Vladimir stabs at it but finds only dirt as does Gunther with a poor flail attack. Hagus, though, turns, draws his sword and slashes it for 12 points! Aleax descends to the ground directly behind it and discharges a one-shot pistol, hitting the thing for 7 points! The toad is Stunned! From overhead, Flit lets out with a strong Sonic Blast! The toad suffers 16 points of damage and is killed instantly! The sound radius encompasses Aleax and Hagus! Both of them take 8 points of Sonic damage!!

The third toad continues to struggle within the net but can not escape...

As Hagus begins opening up the toad, it quickly becomes obvious that this is not FROG - its toad. The reeking stench of its exposed innards and the dark gray nature of its meat bode ill for rations...

Lassiter continues to flap about, well above those on the ground.

The party ambles (& flaps) back into Jainus just after mid-day. There is an orlen guard nailing up a poster (Written in Tech III) near the gate. There is a picture of a nasty looking hawkoid with a tricorn hat on the thing.

Only Vladimir & Gunther, it seems, can read it...

Arriving at Slivkin's the party hears the sound of laughter and music from within the pub. From the street, it is possible to vaguely make out the form of the mutated wasp bartender in his unusual but fashionable suit.

Suddenly, the door swings open and two of the Iron Society members previously encountered stagger out. (The one with four arms and the very large 3 meter tall one) Rudely, they push pass the party, knocking Gasgut and Vladimir aside and sending Lassiter scampering away from their heavy boots. The four armed one sneers at the group, "Watch your step you lowlife scum."

Aleax, it is noticed, has vanished for the moment. He seems to have briefly stepped away while no one was looking.

The two drunken mutants wander off, grunting and laughing.

Aleax rejoins the party...

As the group hangs out, one of the Orlen waitresses comes to each party member with drinks on a tray. To Valdimir, she hands a dark ale, to Ziber - a mix of milk and some kind of clear alcohol, to Flit - a super sweet schnapps in a tall glass, to Aleax - some type of juice, to Gunther - something called a Kokron Blast (Its a steamy cold shot), to Gasgut - Slivkin's specialty, the Mind Bender, to Hagus - a Slim Bloater (Its a pale blue liquid into which the waitress drops a handful of very thin wriggly worms that quickly inflate and then dissolve, causing an intoxicating effervescent effect) and Lassiter is giving a small mug of piping hot blood with a shot of whiskey. She makes no comment, but merely smiles and moves on after serving the party...

Aleax seems to be making friends with some humans.

(G.M. NOTE: It is really too late for Gasgut to rewind the clock and negate a variety of actions that have taken place publicly and privately inside the tavern. It will HAVE to be assumed, since I didn't originally understand Gasgut would be preventing access to the tavern, that Aleax pushed past him and disregarded his words (i.e. simply not caring and daring him to have the whole party arrested or whatever.)

The dialogue will just have to move along from this point.

Gunther continues to lounge near the piano man as Aleax makes friends with some rugged looking humans. Vladimir lurks near the door and, after Flit talks to the two-headed waitress, he flutters over to the card table. A few brief moments later, there is a smattering of applause - it seems the bird has won a bit of gold!

It seems that Aleax's new friends are experienced explorers - one much more than the other two. One of them is close to middle age and has mostly gray hair. He's a grizzled husky fellow (PSH) named Jackson. He's unshaven, smells of whiskey and wears well-worn clothing and furs. Jackson introduces a younger (But no less rugged) companion as his nephew Koosie. Koosie has a crude tattoo of a dagger on his right forearm and he's missing a few teeth. He doesn't have much to say. The third doesn't seem too 'civilized'. He's shirtless and wears buckskin pants and boots. He shaves but has long stringy matted hair and sports ritual scarring around his shoulders and all over his back. When he doesn't acknowledge any of the party members, Koosie says, "Oh don't worry 'bout him… that's just Horse. He's with us!"

Anyway, Jackson says that the three of them have been hunting, trapping and scavenging saleable artifacts east of town for over a year. They've also done some mapping work for Larkum (The leader of Jainus). A few months ago, their semi-permanent camp was overrun by Tok-Tog's band. They killed another of their party, Jackson's brother, stole their animals and goods and then burnt down their cabin. The three of them barely escaped death and they (Especially Jackson) HATE Tok-Tog. It seems they had a deal with Illyki and paid for the right to work in this area without harassment. Tok-Tog didn't honor the agreement and so the attack was by complete surprise.

Based on Aleax's statement that the party was hunting him, they are anxious to join that mission. They're not asking for money - they just want in on it!

Some nearby mutants seem very interested in this conversation...

A couple of miles east of town, Aleax soars in and joins the party. (It seems he had a short errand to run...)

The three humans are not too talkative but seem well equipped for adventuring. They carry plenty of gear and each one uses a large bore musket. In addition, Jackson & Koosie ride centistede mounts! Horse walks along side them as they travel and usually stays a little bit ahead. All together, the three seem to be everything they claimed.

Moving along, Jackson says, "Tok-Tog's hide out - any a you know anything about it? I know its in those hills," from his saddle, he looks toward the hills in the east and nods, "but that's all I know. Some think the old Stone Hole may lead to his den but I don't know about that. That whole area up through there is packed to the gills with them damn Terls. Just don't see anyone comin' and goin' from that way too much. I suppose we could have a look though. I reckon we could run off any a them terls if they come about us."

As Aleax lands amongst the group, he is surprised by an unexpected attack from Gasgut! Gasgut punches him! Aleax takes 5 points of non-lethal damage! Gasgut swings again but this time the elf ducks the blow! Stepping back, Aleax touches a finger to his lips, looks at and sees a bit of blood...

At this, Jackson and Koosie look at each other and smile but make no comment. Horse, too, looks at Gasgut but with a blank stare. He then turns and begins walking again.

Jackson nods up and down thoughtfully as Hagus speaks. "Just which way had you planned on headin' anyhow? Once we get across the river, I mean - if you want to have a look at that there Hole, its okay by me. Otherwise, I'd just send Horse here", looking down at his long haired companion, "around in them hills for a couple of days. Why he's the best damn tracker I ever SEEN. If that 'ol secret hideout's anywhere nearby... Horse'll sniff it on out."

Koosie spits and then looks at the party. "Damn straight", he says.

The night passes without event and so does the NEXT day and night.

On the morning of the 14th day, there's a loud birdcall near the camp. Shifting his eyes that direction, Jackson makes a similar bird call. In a few moments, Horse steps out from behind some thick trees and enters the camp with his scouting report...

(Over the past two nights, Ziber has engaged his Mental Control of Body mutation, in addition to one full day of recuperation - Flit, of course, isn't present to administer First Aid but the cat heals 24 points of damage!)

Horse says, "I find hidden cave near where Canoe finds lake. It’s hidden well but they foolishly mark the way with stones. I saw them all. I saw one guard and no recent sign of a large party entering or leaving but a few DO come and go. I saw three from Jainus come and speak to the guard. One of them large and one with four arms. I see their tracks. They came from the Old Stone. I look at the Old Stone too. It has red paint on the metal cap - it say,

"NIMLU". This is strange. I think they write that there.

"Well done Horse," Jackson says thoughtfully. Get yourself some food. We're moving out shortly.

Jackson looks up from his gear as he unpacks it. He looks Aleax up & down and ignores his question. Instead, he turns to Koosie and says, "Get up there and keep a look out, ya hear?"

Getting back to his saddlebag, he stops and re-closes the flap. Slowly walking around the side of his mount, he confronts the party. "Here it is", he says gruffly, "you wanted some help on this thing, well you got some help. You don't want some help - fine, we turn back in the morning. I'm about ready to stop carin'."

Vladimir, having said nothing since leaving Slivkin's, rises to his feet while coiling his lasso. Breathing through the rags that cover his leprous face, he says, "I agree with this plan. If I could borrow an extra skin, fur or such from one of you", looking to Jackson & co., "I believe that I could change my appearance to the point that any prior physical description wouldn't apply. What I mean is, if they have one or more lookouts with our description, I think I could fool them. In fact, we could put a hood or hat on Lassiter and I could carry him up in a sack - perhaps he wouldn't be recognized either. In fact, I might even pass as a... mutant."

Continuing to speak, he seems to become interested in branches, twigs, ferns, etc. that lie near the edge of the camp. Examining some of them as he talks, he says, "And what of this Stone Hole? What could the Society be doing there? Could THAT be some kind of second entrance to their underground system? Or are they assuming we will track them to it and it is some kind of trap or beastly lair?" Picking up handfuls of ferns and leafy twigs, he looks over toward the heavily camoflaged Hagus and nods knowingly. "Yes", he says in his somewhat raspy voice, "I think I can do this, alright."

Breaking off part of one of the twigs, he pauses and muses thoughtfully, "Has anyone still got a pair of those shackles? Hmmm... I suppose plain rope would do just as well."

Watching and listening, Jackson's lips begin to curl up into a slight smile…

Vladimir sees Gasgut struggling with leather straps, leaves, etc. and puts a hand on his arm. "No", he says, "that's not what I had in mind. Horse says they keep a guard at the entrance - perhaps there's a second or third at times. We can't be sure because things can change. I get the impression from his description that they aren't too concerned about being disturbed. What I mean to say is, there don't seem to be any fortifications, guard dogs, moats, pits with spikes or anything major. It seems to me that what we need to do is get the guard or guards to talk to a couple of us while every one else creeps up quietly behind. If we can all attack at once with, say... arrows, thrown knives and that sort of thing, we just may be able to walk in through the front door. That's not to say there isn't more elaborate security beyond that point, but so far we know about one guard. I think that, say, two of us approaching with everyone else about 50 meters back should do it. As for the shackles, we could be bringing a human 'prisoner' as an offering to join their band. If the guard gets aggressive with us, then we can offer to let HIM claim credit for catching the human if he'll let us in - just anything to gain his confidence and keep him talking. What do you think?"

Vladimir draws his shortsword and extends out his arm. Looking at the blade in the morning sun, he squints one eye as he looks down its length. "Hmmm, needs sharpening.", he mutters. Then he asks, "Oh, and what ABOUT that Stone Hole?"

Jackson pipes in at this point. "Good plan ya got there. Say, I got sumpton at might help." He looks through his bags and tosses Valdimir some skins, a buckskin shirt and an old weathered hat. "Oh, here it is...", he says. "This here's a, uhhh..." he holds up an odd little ancient device. Its about the size of a compass and has a metal back, much like a compass would. The front, however, is a multifaceted crystal surface, "thing like - you can hyp... hipnotil... you can make some one stare at this thing when it goes off an they'll jest stand there an not do mucha anythin else. Lookie here...". Jackson pushes some button on the side of this thing and begins emitting a dazzling color spray that is simply mesmerizing! He cuts it off, and none too soon as several of the party members have gone slack-jawed and bedazzled!

"Only thing is, though, it goes through a battery real fast..."

Horse looks up from his meal and says, "No. Steel cap on Hole too heavy. Take three men to lift off. At least three men." He then goes back to eating..

"Okay", Vladimir says, "we can't split up... so I say we head for this 'Hole' and have a look."

Jackson and Koosie mount up as Horse kicks dirt over the remains of the fire.

From his saddle, Jackson asks, "Any objections?"

After breaking camp, the party travels for over two hours through the wooded hills until coming upon a sight of ancient ruins. Flying about, ahead of the party, Lassiter reports that the place appears deserted. Coming out of the trees, Horse (Who was also ahead of the group) concurs. "There's nobody here." he says matter-of-factly.

There's not much to see as the forest has long since reclaimed the area. Amidst the overgrown and broken stonework, lies a flat rectangular area of particularly well preserved 'paving' of some kind. In its center is a round metal hatch with small half-rings (Like pull rings) around its edge. It is about two meters in diameter and appears very heavy. Just as Horse reported, there is a word scrawled across the metal hatch in red paint.

"Hold on a minute." Jackson says, while watching and listening. Dismounting, he pulls his nice musket out of its saddle holster and hands the reins up to Koosie. Here, takes the centies over behind that wall there. Tie em off an watch our rear. Horse, you stay with him."

Kneeling behind the cover of some overgrown rubble, he levels his rifle at the area of the steel lid and says, "Okay, lift it on offa there."

Tired of waiting on the bat, Valdimir walks over and gives Gasgut and Aleax a hand. Grunting, they slide the Heavy lid off the hole. Hagus finds a spot under a tree and falls unconscious. As the lid comes off, Jackson cocks his weapon from his covered position.

As the lid is dropped a meter or so away, Vladimir (Breathing hard with his hands on his knees) says, "Oh, and there isn't a 'guard' here. Who ever said there was?"

Koosie chuckles from behind his covered position...

Looking into this 'hole', all that is visible is a smooth metal shaft that leads straight down. It is circular, almost two meters wide, and there are metal ladder rungs leading down. Cool air emits from this dark shaft and the sound of rushing water can be heard from deep below.

(G.M. NOTE: The shaft isn't wide enough to accommodate Lassiter or Aleax in flight.)

The bat seems to hesitate as he prepares to scale the ladder that leads down the shaft. As he pauses, Jackson calls over to Gunther. "Son, you sure get some weird ideas. Say, why don't give that there bat some light to take down with him. You guys must have a cube or two, right?"

Lassiter turns invisible! Judging by the sound of his movements, he climbs into the dark shaft and begins climbing down the metal rungs. It isn't too long before he can be heard squeaking excitedly - the sound he makes during combat!

"Hey, I think Lassiter's in trouble!" Vladimir exclaims.

As Hagus prepares to enter the shaft, Aleax climbing out abruptly forces him back!

Below, Gasgut can be heard crying out in agony (Uncharacteristically)!

Valdimir steps up the shaft while quickly taking his lasso out. Looking down, he exclaims, "Something's wrong. We've got to haul him out of there!"

Jackson, in a commanding voice, calls out to Koosie, Horse and Ziber, "KEEP your eyes on those trees! Watch out for an AMBUSH!"

Ziber leaps down with the rope and his fall is broken as Vladimir and Aleax hold it taught! Tying it off on the panicked Gasgut from above, the cat is confronted by the two small mutant creatures as the human is hauled upward!

From below, a revolver is fired and the bullet ricochets about the shaft.

Now its Ziber that has an odd look on his furry face as he glares up at his companions on the surface. Something's wrong with him.

Gasgut's hand looks very bad. Its been badly lashed by something sharp and is dark red and swollen. He appears to have been poisoned!

The actions of Gunther and Hagus take two rounds to accomplish. During this brief time period, Gunther is able to dramatically improve Gasgut's hand with the ancient device & Hagus re-ties the rope.

In the shaft, Ziber is heard fighting but he also shouts up to the surface at his companions. Saying, "No Hagus, bad plan!" As Vladimir begins to descend, as Hagus suggested, Ziber swipes at him, saying, "Get back! You're useless!"

In this confusing situation, it is obvious that Ziber is not in his right mind...

Ziber heroically scampers up and bolts out of the shaft - bowling Valdimir over in the process! Everyone is out (Except for Lassiter...) and Gasgut seems to be coming out of his panicked state.

Standing back, yet trying to peer down the shaft, Vladimir says, "It looks like those things have gone back down. I can't see them!"

Looking worried, Jackson rises and quickly walks forward, saying, "I don't like this. We need to get that bat outa there."

From their covered positions, Horse and Koosie look back toward the Hole as the action halts.

Jackson's eyes narrow and he looks about the area. Taking a deep breath through his nose, he seems to be sizing up the situation in his own mind.

Vladimir opens his water skin and pours a bit on Gagsut's head & face. Crouching, he asks, "What now?"

Jackson takes another deep breath as a few silent moments pass...

"I don't think the bat is coming back out," he says. "Something's not right here. We know this place was recently visited by several of Tok-Tog's gang and they did write on that dang cap. This we know - but this Hole... this..." his voice trails off as he drums his fingers on the butt of his custom musket.

"This feels like a set-up."

He looks around at the group and says, "If we leave now, I think we can be in position to enter at the cave after dark. We'll just have to come up with a plan between here & there. I think 'ol Vladymere here had as good a plan as any. I say we leave now."

Vladimir responds, saying, "Wait a minute. You're not suggesting we just LEAVE Lassiter down there, are you?"

Putting a weathered hand on Vladimir's shoulder, Jackson answers, "Yep, I'm afraid so. It’s all we can do now." Looking over at the crouched form of Koosie, he says, "Let's mount up."

Vladimir pauses, shrugs, and then begins helping Ziber wrap this large piece of rubble so that it can burn.

Looking on, Jackson responds to Gasgut, saying, "I have no idea which way it runs but I've seen these ancient tunnels before. Bout half the time they're full up with water. Don't really know why."

As Koosie and Horse were already moving out, Jackson calls out to them, "Ya'll hold up now. They're gonna try an throw some kinda burnin thing down there."

Since Gunther has the flint & steel, he does the honors and the heavy projectile is shoved into the shaft! Careening off the walls and ladder, the flaming sparking stone mass crashes downward, lighting up the shaft around it as it falls... falls... falls... Boom, boom, boom... Bam... boom... Splash!

Through the smoke, flame, shadows, etc. its not possible to tell whether or not the small creatures were carried along with it but if they WERE on the ladder, chances are close to 100% they aren't now...

As soon as the splash sound is heard, the flames instantly went out.

Seeing the plan develop, Jackson rides over and offers his sturdy rope to extend the length. Also, he helps Gunther & Gasgut by additionally tying it off to his saddle.

Gasgut's makeshift torch proves essential as the pair of Aleax and Ziber move down the shaft. Gunther's prediction, too, is accurate as many of the rungs are bent or loosened. Traveling down the ladder is hazardous duty.

At a depth of roughly twenty meters, the climbers encounter a side shaft. Those looking down from above can see this feature.

Hauling Aleax & Ziber out of the treacherous shaft, the party prepares to move out. Before they do, Hagus quickly prepares a whipping snare trap beside the entrance and conceals it with leaves & foliage. Leaving the thing open, the group backtracks to the other known entrance...

This journey takes the remainder of the afternoon and it is already nightfall when (After having paused near where Horse indicates the cave lies) Horse returns from his advanced position to report. "I get closer this time," the longhaired man says. "Cave entrance set in hillside. Guard in cave now but he sleeps. Another, a woman, is hidden on the hilltop. I saw her - she NOT see me! She's not asleep. Horse likes this woman. We KEEP her. She is for my tent." Looking around at everyone, Horse gives a warning stare... "NO hurt her. She will be my WOMAN!"

Cocking an eyebrow, Jackson climbs down from his saddle saying, "Ok then… what's the plan?"

Horse, saying nothing, turns and moves off into the darkness. As usual, he is amazingly quiet...

As Hagus prepares to go to the cave entrance alone, there is a scream in the direction of the hill. Something's gone wrong!

"Damn!" Jackson says angrily. "Horse found trouble."

Taking out his shortsword and net, the wrapped figure of Vladimir says, "Let's go."

(G.M. NOTE: IF - any party members want to go to the hill/cave now, it will take 6 rounds to get there at top speed!)

Jackson hops back in his saddle and he and Koosie gallop off at top speed through the forested hills, headed for the cave! At a full run, Vladimir takes after them.

Moving quickly to the scene, Gunther hangs back as the hill with the cave comes into view in the moonlight. The cave entrance (At its base) is discernable by the glow of a torch or lantern within it. Standing at the entrance, Jackson and Koosie fire their muskets into the cave while Horse, evidently, is fighting inside. It is difficult to tell what is going on!

On top of the small hill are several gnarled trees and plenty of brush, but no sign of the woman that Horse described.

(G.M. NOTE: The party is about 25 meters from the cave entrance. Any party member can get there in one round. It takes two rounds to climb the hill from this point, although Aleax could fly there in one round. The two centisteeds are standing near the cave entrance as well.)

Vladimir's rotted jaw clenches beneath his dirty wrappings as he runs toward the cave to join Jackson and Koosie. Running in the darkness, his sword glistens in the lantern's glow as he closes on the entrance.

As the party looks on, for the next few seconds there is still no sign of movement on top of the small hill but Jackson & Koosie hurriedly reload. As they do, they yell toward the cave (And so does Valdimir) things like, "Come on! You can take him! Watch yourself! Noooo!" (etc.) It’s as if they are 'cheering' horse on but, for some reason can't or won't help him. By the sounds of their anxious cries, its obvious that Horse is in big trouble inside.

As the party reaches the area near where Jackson, Koosie and Vladimir are standing (And shouting), they instantly see what's going on.

The cave entrance is blocked by steel bars! Its a hinged metal door (A strong one too) and its shut & locked. Behind it, is a somewhat narrow short passage leading into a cave with a low ceiling. There is a bright lantern inside resting on the cavern floor and a heavy metal door at the rear of the chamber. Beside the door is a large wooden mallet. The ENTIRE interior of the cave isn't visible from the party's vantagepoint although most of it is.

At any rate, there is no sign of any woman anywhere. Inside, about 12 meters from the bars, Horse is locked in mortal combat with a four-armed mutant! (It’s the same one that was with the other two at the Iron Society HQ and at Slivkin's). Horse, wielding a hatchet and dagger is getting the worst of it by FAR. In fact, he appears very near death and has suffered a severe head wound. His four-armed opponent wields two (2) maces and a small metal shield. He is wounded too, but not badly.

(G.M. NOTE: This is combat time. That last bit of movement by the party was a combat round. A new round begins now. Jackson & Koosie are going to fire through the bars again...)

PSHOOOH! PSHOOOH! BLAM! BLAM! The muskets of Jackson and Koosie discharge at the same time as Aleax unloads with the HP revolver! The four-armed mutant is struck 3 times but not critically. Its studded leather stops 15 points of damage. The mutant suffers 46 points of damage, and is staggered back 2 meters! The mutant is stunned! Hagus' arrow sails past and strikes the cave wall.

Horse, who had been prepared to parry, stoops a bit (Reflexively) in response to the gunfire & the arrow.

Bloodied and badly hurt, Horse rolls out of the way as his opponent stands stunned.

Vladimir reaches for the bars but jerks his hand back as Aleax continues to fire, Hagus draws his bow and Gasgut steps up to do the same! Jackson & Koosie quickly reload!

SPPRRRROYYOIYOIYOINGGGG! Hagus snaps another bowstring! One of Aleax's bullets grazes the mutant for 12 points of damage and one of Gasgut's arrows strikes him for 9 points. The mutant's armor prevents 15 points of damage so it suffers 6 points! Bleeding from multiple wounds, he is obviously in pain but still not critically injured and begins to make his way toward the metal door at the rear of the cave!

In fact, its this door that several of the combatants notice. A thin metal plate slides open (This is done from behind it, on the other side) and another mutant can be seen peering into the cave from behind the door. Its eyes go wide as it sees what's going on.

As Jackson & Koosie raise their muskets to fire, they are pushed back (Along with Aleax) by the trio of Gasgut, Valdimir & Ziber who tug at the gate with all their strength.

Try as they might, after a few seconds it becomes patently obvious that this gate is much too sturdy to be opened in this manner. Inside the cave, the four-armed mutant makes it to the door, smearing blood across it as he manages to swing it open. As the door opens, it reveals a pack of angry musket bearing mutants!

As the prone form of Horse looks up in shock, they lower their weapons at him and the party, preparing to fire a volley.

As Gasgut, Hagus, Aleax AND Valdimir, dive, roll, dart & fly away from the cave entrance, Jackson and Koosie kneel & fire! Almost simultaneously, there is a volley from inside the cave! A musket ball strikes a bar just a few centimeters from Jackson's head!

"HORSE! NOOOOOOOOOO!!!", Koosie cries out in despair. Quickly, Jackson & Koosie pivot away from the bars and begin to reload!

Jackson and Koosie reload while the party does nothing. The two frontiersmen seem willing to stand their ground. They use the rocks around the cave opening (& to some extent the bars themselves) as cover while they pour their

powder and quickly ram fresh shot!

Hagus, Vladimir and Gunther are all in covered positions now roughly 30 to 40 meters from the cave entrance. Aleax is flying about, using cover or whatever, and Ziber has climbed the hill but inexplicably crouches - paused, he seems to be watching something or other up there. It’s just too dark to tell. Gasgut is also away from the cave entrance, perhaps not as far as the others.

As Hagus trots up to the cave entrance and takes his place, Gasgut also moves to a point where he can visually determine the fate of Horse.

Jackson & Koosie fire their muskets into the cave and (Almost simultaneously) musket fire is returned! Koosie is hit for 8 points of damage (A Serious wound for Koosie!)! Koosie is slammed backward 2 meters, is Knocked Down and Stunned! Jackson is grazed for 8 points of damage (Little more than a scratch for Jackson.) but it doesn't really faze him.

As Ziber tops the hill and enters the foliage there, he becomes difficult to follow in the darkness. Within a moment, though, there come the sound and muzzle flashes of two flintlocks from Ziber's position! The cat has been attacked up there!!

Coming forward, Vladimir looks up toward the hilltop as he clutches his net and sword. It appears he's about to move up there to help...

"DAMN IT!", Jackson curses, as he begins to reload.

Koosie lies there, stunned and wounded as Jackson rams in a new round. Picking up his bow, Gagsut looses two arrows into the cave, taking up Koosie's former position. Hagus also sends an arrow into the cave and Aleax fires two revolver rounds.

Hagus' arrow misses badly - it hits the exposed foot of Horse's body. Gasgut's first arrow misses everything and so does his second. Unfortunately, Gasgut's hand slips off the bowstring and he accidentally hits himself in the eye - quite hard. Gasgut is temporarily stunned! Aleax's first round misses but his second hits one of the mutants! It takes 12 points of damage and is blown backward - Dead!

As Aleax hurriedly dumps his cylinder and quickly pushes in fresh cartridges, Jackson & the mutants finish reloading. It appears that the mutants are loosing their courage in a hurry. The bloodied four-armed mutant (His arms full of Horse's personal effects) scrambles over his fallen comrades to get behind the door as the others prepare to close it. At the same time, they are trying to push and/or pull the dead out of the way so the door CAN be closed!

Vladimir starts running up the rocky hillside towards Ziber's last known position. As he does, the cat's fighting cry can be heard up there... Ziber's in melee!

As Gasgut stands Stunned, Jackson fires his custom musket! Hagus shoots two arrows and Aleax fires two more revolver rounds!

Both of Hagus' arrows miss badly, as do Aleax's shots. In fact, Aleax actually renders his revolver useless (Temporarily) as he mishandles the recoil and clogs the barrel and hammer with dirt and a bit of grass.

Jackson's musket shot hits the fleeing four-armed mutant in the side for 54 points of damage! The mutant's studded leather armor stops 15 points but he still suffers 39 points of damage! The mutant is stunned as the metal door clangs shut (CLANG!)

From the darkness of the hilltop, a woman screams out and Ziber's yowling suddenly stops. Vladimir has now joined him up there.

Hagus steps over to Koosie and grabs the human's musket, horn & ammo pouch. Satisfied that the young frontiersman will live, he turns and prepares to move up the hill.

Gasgut, blinking - yet recovered, doesn't wait. Charging up the slope, he yells out, "Won't support others... he'd already fucking BE there by now. Wants to hang back & take pot shots. Selfish, self serving, companion abandoning BASTARD!" As he moves, he slings his bow and draws a dagger...

Jackson hears Hagus' words but silently nods 'no' as he quickly reloads his fine rifle - all the while never taking his eyes off the four-armed mutant that is in the cave. The mutant, no longer stunned, drops Horse's gear and feverishly tries to open the metal door. Pounding on it with four fists, he cries out, "Open it! OPEN IT!" He cries out in pain as a mutant on the other side rams the small metal plate closed, catching some fingers in it. His comrades have abandoned him.

Suddenly, his head snaps up - as if he is looking at or hearing something towards the cave ceiling (He is looking at an area out of view from the bars).

Meanwhile, Koosie moves away from the entrance and leans against some large rocks, holding his side.

The four-armed mutant picks up his two maces & shield, prepares to battle something or someone out of view from the bars (Someone entering the cave from the back & top!). Jackson curses angrily as his shot MISSES the mutant (Who now moves out of sight from the bars!)

As Aleax continues to clean his weapon, Hagus joins Gasgut, Ziber and Valdimir atop the dark hill.

Jackson reloads as Aleax finishes clearing his pistol for re-use!

Inside the cave (In the back, out of view from Jackson & Aleax AND from those above), the sounds of fighting can be heard. Both Vladimir AND the four-armed mutant yell out in pain! They've both been wounded!

The sounds of Vladimir & the mutant in melee continues...

Jackson slings his rifle and grabs up Koosie. Performing a classic one-man carry, he takes him to his centisteed and helps him into the saddle. "Take the bald one's advice and head for the trees, kid." Slapping the animal's rump to send it on its way, he turns to again face the action. Grimly holding his musket, he looks up toward the hilltop.

Hagus starts down the ladder with Gasgut right behind him (Just above him, actually)!

Aleax flies up to the hilltop and locates the shaft, just as Gasgut's head disappears into it.

Below, Valdimir & Ziber continue their battle.

For some reason (Back at the cave entrance - & now out of everyone's sight), Jackson cries, "LOOK OUT IN THEEEEERRRE!"

As the mutant, Vladimir and Ziber fight on, the cat paws the unsavory foe for 8 points! As Hagus and Gasgut drop onto the cave floor, Gasgut pulls the dagger from his teeth, spins and throws at Point Blank range! It hits for 5 points but the mutant's studded leather protects it from all damage this round. Ziber's claws don't find flesh and the dagger grazes off!

Jackson fires a musket shot at the metal door! Three laser bolts are fired FROM the metal door (Out of the thin sliding plate, which has reopened)! Vladimir is hit for 28 points of damage! Vladimir's armor stops 15 points but the human still takes 13 points of damage!

Vladimir disengages from the four-armed mutant, faces the door (Which is about 3 meters away from the melee) and raises his Med. metal shield for cover! He seems momentarily unsure of what to do next.

On the hilltop, Aleax quickly begins his own descent down the shaft.

Hagus pulls down an iron lever set into the cave wall. There is a metallic 'click' at the cave entrance and the sound of chains running...

The barred gate slowly swings open!

Jackson, of course, sees this as he reloads again. Additionally, Gunther is trotting forward to the cave entrance to join Jackson!

In the meantime - Ziber claws and bites his opponent for 18 points. The mutant's armor stops 15 points & his shield almost prevented the bite – he suffers 3 points of damage! That's a serious wound at present! The mutant manages to knock the cat with a mace as well for 15 points. Ziber's armor stops 10 points so he takes 5 points of damage!

Gasgut moves up to the metal door braving Point Blank laser fire! Gasgut is hit 3 times for a total of 42 points (His shield helped too!). Gasgut's armor prevents 10 points so he takes 32 points of damage! Not stopping, he quickly and forcefully jabs at the shooter through the slit! He hits and his foe on the other side cries, "AHHHHHHHH!!!". The laser-wielding mutant suffers 26 points from a mortal neck wound and falls back DEAD on the other side of the door!

Right behind Gasgut, the anxious Aleax wants to get to the slit to shoot but the sword wielding warrior is taking up too much space. Trying the latch, Aleax finds the door to be locked from the other side!

As Gasgut steps aside, Aleax steps up to peek through the slot and shoot! As he does, there's a second laser bearing mutant that has already taken the place of the first one and has the drop on him! But, instead of frying the elf with Point Blank laser fire, the mutant hesitates while blinking rapidly. Aleax doesn't hesitate and fires twice through the slot! The first bullet clips the target in the shoulder for 12 points and the laserman staggers backward Stunned! His second shot misses!

Ziber, with the initiative, mauls his mutated opponent for 30 points and Hagus adds another 18 with a shortsword strike! The mutant dies in a most gruesome fashion!

Running back out of the cave, Valdimir appears to be following Jackson who himself is beginning to move up the hill. Vladimir calls out, "I'm coming with you!"

Gunther is there at the cave opening too.

Only reaching up with his smallish dark hand to shoot, Aleax pops off a couple of caps into the door slot without looking at what he's shooting at. Its unclear whether or not he hits anything but, from the sound of it, the mutants on the other side have beaten a hasty retreat!

Stripping the four-armed mutant, Hagus begins rolling his clothing and leatherwear into a large ball as Gasgut works the flint to spark a flame. Hagus also is able to salvage a number of small belongings from the mutant's body – one that everyone notices is an iron key ring with a key on it!

Gunther finds that Horse can't be saved and is also able to gather up his personal effects, which the mutant had tried to make off with.

Jackson & Vladimir are now somewhere atop the hill...

(G.M. NOTE: All of this takes about 30 seconds as the party is not presently in 'Combat Time'. Until such time as combat resumes {Initiated by the party or Tok-Tog & Co.}, normal dialogue, searches, examining, etc. can take place...)

Aleax isn't as patient as Hagus. As soon as the lock turns, Aleax steps up and opens the door while Hagus loads his quiver. Immediately, the winged elf begins scavenging the dead mutants that were laying behind the door.

Behind the door, a narrow natural passage leads away to a curve - about 20 meters away. This is the route that the mutants fled. Their dead comrades (Just behind the door) provide some pickings for scavengers...

Gasgut picks up a laser pistol! (Although he doesn't know how to operate it) He also picks up a musket, horn & hatchet. Aleax is also picking up a horn, musket and hatchet as he fishes through pockets, pouches, etc. when there's noise from up top.

Hagus can hear it best as he's half way up the ladder but its audible to everyone. "Get him!", a strange voice yells. Almost instantly after that, the sound of two muskets is hear!

Vladimir & Jackson are fighting up there!!

As most of the characters begin stepping into the tunnel (And preparing to lock themselves in), Hagus quickly drops down from the ladder. Scampering to get out of the way, he barely avoids Vladimir & Jackson - the two of them fall onto the cave floor, having come down in a panic. Its fortunate neither of them broke anything!

"There's a world of hurt of comin' down on us, kiddos!" says Jackson as he scrambles to his feet. Vladimir's eyes are wide with fear and they dart to and fro momentarily. Getting his bearings, he half runs, half lunges into the passage with Gasgut, Ziber & Aleax, saying, "Shut the door! SHUT THE DOOR!!"

ZAP! ZAP! Gasgut Heroically discovers the laser's method of function and hits the cavern wall with two laser bolts! The red glow reflecting in his eyes, Jackson too makes for the passage... in a hurry!!

(G.M. NOTE: Please, we are in Combat Time now. I need short concise actions from EVERYONE. Aleax is preparing to reload a firearm in the natural passageway - I have actions from NO ONE ELSE.

There is now a light shining down the shaft that leads to the surface and the sound of mutants descending the hillside can be heard as well. They won't be at the front gate THIS round. They will, though, (Whoever's coming) be there at the end of NEXT round.

Aleax mentioned he thought the group that retreated was not too far ahead (Further down this cavern passage, into the complex). Now that he mentions it, others too can hear the sounds of voices ahead in the tunnel. {Keep in mind this is all happening in the span of a few seconds} It doesn't sound like they are advancing on the party, though.

<Lastly, (And for a multitude of reasons) I don't think the party is going to survive this encounter. Oh, it might - but I doubt it. However, it IS possible with good actions and some luck. To that end, if there are ANY questions, confusion, rule interpretations, etc. that anyone has/needs, then post me e-mail or call before you state your action.)

May fortune smile on... most of you.>

As Gasgut speaks and Ziber reloads, Hagus quickly uses his blade to cut away the small pouches & packs from the bodies on the floor. Jackson closes the sliding panel over the viewing port as the mutants descend from the hillside and enter the cave. They can be heard on the other side of the door! As the party moves out, Tok-Tog's voice calls out, "Get that door open now!" "Its locked!", another voice yells, as a hand jiggles the handle from the other side...

Moving down the passage, its Gasgut & Ziber in front, followed by the pair of Vladimir & Aleax. Behind them come Jackson, Hagus & Gunther.

Rounding the corner, the party comes upon a large cavern! There are a number of lanterns scattered about the place so the lighting isn't too bad. (G.M. NOTE: This description is IMPORTANT! Please read it very carefully & call or post e-mail if you have any questions...) Where the curved passage ends, their are rough hewn steps (Carved from the natural limestone) that lead down about 3 meters to the floor of this large chamber. In other words, it’s a sunken area. There is a flat ledge that wraps about halfway around each side from the entrance (meaning that from the curved passage, one could descend the stairs or choose to step upon either the right or left ledge and walk about halfway around the room… until the ledge ran out). This ledge is about 3 meters above the floor.

The back half of this cavern is actually ancient construction, having a squared off wall, ceiling, etc.. The ceiling in this place averages about 7 meters in height. The back wall - the ancient constructed back wall opposite the passage entrance -is 60 meters away. In that back wall are two exits, about 20 meters apart. There are no doors there, just man-sized ancient halls that lead away from this chamber. However, about 15 meters away from the back wall, a fast moving stream runs from a large round opening in the left wall and exits from an identical opening in the right wall. It was a man-made tunnel in ancient times but now is simply an underground stream. It is about 7 meters across. On either sides of this stream are poles & racks holding nets, hook-rods, and other gear designed to harvest fish and other game from this water source. There are also some tables, for cleaning fish, cooking pots, some strange hides stretched out and many other signs of a common food prep area.

CLOSER to the party, and the entrance, is another cavernous passage on the left side. In fact, this particular passage is just about where the left side ledge ends. Just beyond that opening, there are some large stalagmites on the cave floor (Between this opening and the stream). Positioned within this group of stalagmites are 5 mutants. They are roughly 35 meters from where the party now stands and they are using the stalagmites for cover. In that natural passage (On the left side, closer to the party) is another of the laser wielding mutants. HE is about 25 meters from the party but he is also using the opening for cover.

On the right side of the cavern is another rock formation. Its not really a stalagmite type of thing, but more like a giant lump of rock that nearly touches the ceiling. At any rate, there's two mutants using that thing as cover too. One of them is the laserman that Aleax wounded. He's badly hurt but preparing to fire nonetheless. The second one has a musket pointed up at the party and a hatchet as a side-arm. These two (And the rock formation itself) are closer than the others - about 15 meters from the entrance.

The five mutants that are in the stalagmite formation (The furthest back - roughly 35 meters away) are as follows: One has a musket & hatchet, one has a musket & dagger, there's a third laserman & a freakishly tall mutant (Almost 5 meters tall!) The giant sized mutant wears studded leather, has a giant spear & javelins. Near him is another oversized mutant - he's one of the three that the party met at the Iron Society HQ (Along with the four armed one). This brutish looking character is 3 meters tall himself! He also has studded leather and an oversized battle axe.

Of much more immediate concern, however, are the four mutants waiting on either ledge. When the party reaches the entrance, four mutants step up to fight - 2 on either ledge! On Gasgut's side (To the left), there is one with two flint-lock pistols & a short sword and one with leather armor, a med. metal shield and a mace! On Ziber's side (The right ledge), are two more! One has leather armor, a longsword & a hammer. The other has leather armor, a med. metal shield and a mace!

(G.M. NOTE: At this point, the party isn't surprised by the figures on the ledges, and neither are they. It’s a matter of initiative. Gasgut & Ziber (for the moment) are, for the most part, blocking the rest of the party from fighting - or from being hit... However, Aleax, could reach through and shoot, Valdimir might push through and move down the steps dodging, etc., etc.. Its just going to be nearly impossible for Jackson, Hagus & Gunther to do much this upcoming round as far as fighting the mutants confronting Ziber and Gasgut. We'll see. Behind the party, back down the curved passage, they're pounding on the door...)

The initiative is close but the party has it!

Turning to his right, Ziber shoves the two mutants with impressive effect (RED result!)! The one with the longsword is knocked off the ledge! The fall has a RED effect! The mutant takes 10 points of damage from the fall and suffers a Critical Injury (Effect: Invalid)! {BUT, he's actually dead when he hits the floor - see below} The other mutant actually AVOIDS Ziber's shove (00 rolled!) but drops his mace (Black Res.)!

To the left, Gasgut scrapes the laser pistol against the rocky cavern wall and accidentally turns it off (Black res.)! His sword attack misses!

Trying to use a revolver in the tussle of melee can be hazardous as Aleax discovers. Aleax fires two shots but his hand is turned and he grazes himself for 11 points but (Miraculously) it has no effect. His second shot hits the one that Ziber knocked off just before the point of impact. (So it also took a direct shot to the body from a HP round BEFORE striking the floor and suffering the critical injury!)

Simultaneously taking a couple of steps down the stairs, Vladimir pivots and throws his bolo at short-range but misses!

Gasgut's foes take a step back but doesn’t give way. One of them fires two flintlocks but the human hero is only grazed for 18 points while the other one's mace attack is ineffective! Gasgut's armor stops 10 points. Gasgut takes 8 points of damage but isn't slammed or stunned!

The passage opening (Where the party is) and the immediate ledge area around the opening is raked with laser fire and musket shots! Vladimir is struck for 56 points of damage by laser fire! His armor stops 15 points. Vladimir takes 41 points of damage and is now seriously wounded!

One of the musket-shooting mutants within the stalagmite area has a misfire and is blinded by the powder flash (Black res.)!

Ziber struggles with his foe that uses his shield for protection but doesn't go for his dropped mace. Neither has an advantage this round!

Aleax fires 2 HP revolver rounds, both narrowly miss Gunther (As he passes) and both miss Ziber's foe but one grazes ZIBER for 11 points! Ziber's leathers prevent 10 points. Ziber takes 1 point of damage from the stray round!

Hagus shoots two arrows at the wounded laser man at the large rock. One misses cleanly but the second is a good shot. The mutant has 75% cover, however, and the arrow smashes into the rock instead!

Gasgut strikes his foe down with his fine sword, hitting for 13 points of damage! In addition, he pumps him with hot laser fire for a total of 77 points of damage - the mutant falls backward, his chest opening up in a most gruesome manner!

Vladimir is there too with an excellent Martial Arts move! The mutant's shield helps him but the 'rag-man' kicks for 3 points of damage! The mutant is Slammed! He is Knocked Back! The mutant falls and takes 5 points of damage and a Critical Injury (Sprained leg!)! Worse still, this happens during a series of laser shots directed at Vladimir. The mutant is hit for 20 points as he falls! The mace & shield wielding mutant hits the cavern floor dead! Two laser shots hit Vladimir! Vladimir takes 70 points of damage. His studded leather armor stops 15 points. Vladimir takes 55 points of damage and is KILLED!

Jackson pulls up as Vladimir cuts him off! Vladimir paid the price but even Jackson accidentally hits his head with his rifle barrel for 7 points of damage!

Gunther charges down the steps and straight for the large rock formation! 6 laser shots target him! The wounded man at the rock (Holding his bleeding side in pain) misses twice and glances off Gunther's large plastic shield once! The mutant in the tunnel (The one on the left side of the cavern below the end of the left ledge) misses Gunther twice but hits him once in the head! Gunther's thick furry cap stops 5 points but Gunther still takes 37 points of damage!

As Gunther reaches the rock, the musketeer there has reloaded. Both he and the wounded begin to move in a way to get a shot at Gunther but still use the thing as cover.

At the stalagmites, the two giant sized mutants start to come out, but crouch down again as Gasgut shoots HIS laser. One musketeer has reloaded while the other one has recovered from his misfire and is now about to reload...

Aleax fires two shots at the laserman in the stalagmites! Both shots are good but the mutant has too much cover. Both shots strike the stalagmite very near him and do no damage!

Hearing Hagus' words, Jackson bounds onto the steps and takes off running to the tunnel in the left wall! He braves plenty of fire! Gasgut backs him up by opening up at the laserman in the tunnel with HIS laser! Gasgut's laser shots hit the mutant for 22 points and then again for 33 points - the mutant (Grimacing in agony) falls backward DEAD!

As Gunther too bolts forward, Hagus tries to hit that musket-man at the rock. Hagus shoots two quick arrows and one of them hits the mutant in an exposed area for 24 points! Arching his back and dropping his musket (JUST at the moment he had the bead on Gunther!), he falls onto the rock dead and then rolls to the cavern floor.

Gunther is able to round the rock just as the wounded mutant does so. Confronting each other face to face, Gunther shoots first hitting his opponent for 7 points of damage. The mutant is slammed! He staggers backward 3 meters, is Knocked Down and Stunned! He's still alive, though...

Back on the ledge, Ziber takes a page from Vladimir's book, first feinting then kicking the mutant off the ledge! His foe takes one point of damage from the fall, is Stunned - the mutant is knocked out!

As one of the stalagmite musketeers reloads (The one that was momentarily blinded), the other one fires at Gasgut but misses! The laserman within the stalagmites fires at Jackson as he crosses the floor! Jackson is missed, then NARROWLY missed and then hit for 42 points of damage!

The mutant that fired his musket at Gasgut prepares to reload while the other readies to shoot at Gasgut next round. Gunther's surviving foe's eyes roll as he lies Stunned (For the moment). The two giant sized mutants are now coming forward! Moving out from their cover, they are headed for the side tunnel where Jackson has entered (And they've got their melee weapons out)...

As Gunther slits & grabs, Hagus runs to the tunnel at full speed! Right behind him, Gasgut pulls up (About halfway) and fires laser bolts at the largest giant bearing down on Jackson. His deadly fire inflicts 55 points. The giant's studded leather armor prevents 15 points. It takes 40 points of damage and falls DEAD with a flailing crash!

The second oversized mutant pulls up a few meters away from Jackson, who fires his musket at short-range! It’s a good shot but some kind of Forcefield about the mutant prevents all damage! It responds with a weak Sonic Blast that does no harm to Jackson!

Aleax pulls his trigger but nothing happens. Click, click - its empty!

Within the cover of the stalagmite formation, one mutant shoots a musket at Hagus but misses him! The laserman fires at Gasgut, striking him once for 28 points of damage. Gasgut's armor stops 10 points. Gasgut suffers 18 points of damage!

One of the musketeers in the stalagmites is now reloaded while the other begins to reload! From within the tunnel (Behind Jackson), two MORE mutants come running up. They look tough! Both wear leather armor, are over 2 meters in height and muscular. They both have two drawn flintlock pistols and maces on their belts. One of them will kill Jackson (From behind) while the other will kill Hagus (Who's only a few meters away).

Popping the cylinder out, empty casings hit the stone floor as Aleax reloads! Gunther steadies himself and aims!

Hagus steps up to attack a tunnel mutant but misses! The mutant discharges its flintlocks at Hagus! One of them is knocked upward by Hagus' sword and shoots the tunnel ceiling - the other one hits Hagus for 27 points. Hagus' studded leather stops 15 points. Hagus takes 12 points from a grazing shot!

Jackson battles the large axe-wielding mutant! Jackson slices him a bit for 24 points but his armor stops 15 points. The mutant is nicked for 9 points and attacks Jackson with its oversized axe! Jackson is lacerated for 60 points! THAT hurt!

Gasgut closes the remaining distance to the tunnel and gets off laser shots at the mutant taking on Hagus. He hits him with no effect. THESE mutants are immune to lasers! Almost simultaneously, the second tunnelman comes up behind Jackson firing both flintlocks at the battling human. (TWO Black results - incredible!) One of the pistols explodes in a misfire and the other one shoots off in a random direction as he falls to the floor, crying out in pain!

From the stalagmites, one shoots a musket at Ziber and misses! The laserman actually changes his fire to match that of his musket-wielding partner – he too targets the crouching feline on the ledge! Ziber is struck (Yeow!) for 56 points of damage. The cat's armor stops 10 points so he takes 46 points of damage! Ziber is GRAVELY wounded and very near death!

Hagus and his foe melee at the tunnel entrance with no effect! The second pistol toting mutant (The one that misfired), lies stunned but IS recovering.

The giant mutant’s forcefield deflects Jackson’s bayonet thrusts! Jackon is slashed for 20 points of damage and falls! Aleax fires two HP revolver rounds at the giant mutant (from his concealed position on the ledge) at Medium Range. One misses and the second is deflected off the mutant's forcefield!

As Gunther sits (braced & aimed) near the large rock, Ziber leaps (he really has a Talent for it!) onto the large rock formation from the ledge. Landing on the side away from the action, he presses flat against it, thus providing 100% cover for the time being.

Gasgut, somewhat deftly, moves up to the stalagmites. Playing a guessing game with the mutants therein, he bobs to & fro a bit as he closes - and so do they! As one of the musket men furiously reloads, one pops out and shoots at Gasgut at Short range but misses! The laser mutant, however, steps around a large stalagmite at the front of the formation and confronts Gasgut at Point Blank Range! They fire simultaneously! The mutant falls DEAD from 66 points of damage! Gasgut grimaces in agony as he takes 74 points of damage! (84 minus 10 for leather armor)

The musket man that missed, seeing his partner lasered to death, drops his empty musket on the cavern floor, draws out a hatchet and readies to close with Gasgut!

The enemy has the Initiative and Hagus is struck for 42 points of damage by his opponent’s mace! He even (Black result) hits his head with his own sword hilt for 3 points. Hagus' armor stops 15 points and he suffers a total of 30 points of damage! Hagus is now seriously wounded! The other 'tunnel' mutant leaves his empty pistols on the floor and rises to his feet while drawing his mace. He looks angry too!

The hatchet man misses Gasgut but the musketman steps up and shoots at point Blank range! Gasgut's armor prevents any lethal damage but he IS Stunned!

CRACK! Aimed & Braced, Gunther fires off Horse's fine musket and strikes down the hatchet man facing the Stunned Gasgut! The mutant takes 12 points of damage and is blown back DEAD! The musket man drops his rifle and will now dispatch Gasgut with a dagger...

Both the giant AND Jackson fight very well! On his back, Jackson makes an excellent move to parry a very good attack! However, what the giant fails to notice is Aleax gliding in from behind and above him! The giant is surprised as Aleax attempts a garrote attack! It’s a damn good effort actually but the winged elf just barely fails to slip the noose around his thick neck. (G.M. NOTE: The giant mutant will be denied an action next round, though...)

The four surviving mutants are obviously oblivious to casualties on their side. They are possessed with an unreal type of fanaticism and appear willing to fight to the last!

The mutant draws back his dagger in rapid motion to strike Gasgut dead when he's hit by musket fire from Gunther! The unarmored mutant takes 9 points of damage and is slammed! He reels backward for 4 meters, is Knocked Down and Stunned!

Hagus now battles two mace-swinging mutants! The one on his shield side bangs a near miss off the medium Metal shield - its a good thing Hagus carries it!

The giant’s forcefield deflects Jackson’s bayonet thrust (He’s still on his back)!

Peeking over the large rock, Ziber shoots two revolver rounds at the giant but misses both times!

Aleax fires twice at Point Blank range! The giant’s Forcefield deflects both rounds!

Gasgut is no longer Stunned!

In pain, Hagus tries to fight off his assailants and strikes one for 12 points of damage. Its armor stops 10 points and it takes 2 points of damage!

Running up, Gasgut fires at Short Range with the laser! A lucky shot! Gasgut hits Hagus' second foe for 66 points - burning him down with devastating effect! His second shot is a misfire as bright beams of light erupt from the weapon's casing temporarily BLINDING Gasgut! His third shot misses everything! Gasgut is blinded by the weapon's malfunction!

Jackson stays on his back, thrusting with his bayonet! He fights well but his attack is deflected by the mutant's Forcefield! Aleax's bullet's (Also well shot) simply bounce off an awesome Forcefield! The giant again slashes Jackson for 80 (EIGHTY) points of damage! Jackson is now in very great pain and close to death, covered in blood!!

Scrambling, kicking & dropping his musket/bayonet, Jackson is now trying to dodge while reaching into a pouch for something...

The Stunned and wounded mutant, near the stalagmites, is now no longer Stunned and is preparing to stand again.

In terrible pain, Hagus simply has no choice but to battle his lone foe as Gasgut stands blinking. Hagus' shortsword doesn't find its mark, though, against his well-trained opponent, who likewise can't find an opening in Hagus' defenses.

Flapping in the air, Aleax hurriedly reloads while Gunther strides toward the stalagmites and the mutant there that struggles to his feet! Gunther's words momentarily get the giant's attention but, suddenly, a spray of intense rotating color springs forth from Jackson's palm! It’s a gorgeous display of hypnotic & shifting color and lights! This visual effect has an overwhelming power over those in its immediate vicinity...

Hagus is actually able to resist it, as is his opponent. Aleax, too, turns his eyes away while continuing to shove in fresh cartridges and Jackson (its controller) is unaffected. However, its primary target IS affected. The giant mutant goes slackjawed with awe and is stunned with amazement and fascination!

"Get the axe. Tie him up," Jackson says through clenched teeth - sweat and blood pouring down his face...

Shaking his head, the pain-wracked Gasgut regains his vision. His temporary blindness may have actually prevented HIS succumbing to the Color Spray!

The wounded mutant at the stalagmites (toward which Gunther strides) looks around, spots his dagger, and prepares to make for it

Near the battle between Hagus and his muscled foe, Gagsut moves up firing. He FRIES down the mutant with over 100 points of damage! At the same moment, Aleax garrotes the hypnotized giant with NO trouble - even as Gunther pivots and moves toward him to grab the axe. Behind Gunther, the last remaining mutant (Wounded and bloody) charges with dagger in hand...

As the giant's knees buckle and he collapses, Jackson crabs backward and stands. As he does so, he pulls a dagger and prepares to throw.

Gunther turns and raises his shield as the mutant attacks! However, it never really stood a chance as Jackson's dagger strikes it in the heart and it spills backward DEAD!

(G.M. NOTE: For the moment, the party is now out of 'Combat Time'...)

Jackson, his buckskin clothes soaked dark with blood, looks on with grim determination. "This isn't the time for pickin's," he says. "Grab up them laser pistols an let's find us a place to hole up. I gotta feelin' we'll be a seein' ol Tok-Tok any second now. Jes pick a direction an let's GO!"

Wracked with pain, he quickly rams down a fresh load into his musket. As he does so, he looks Gunther up & down with a bit of a furrowed brow.

Ziber bounds toward the man-made stream and (Using his amazing Leaping Talent) 'broad-jumps' over it before moving down the right side passage on the far wall.

Seeing this, Hagus begins moving down the tunnel while Gasgut & Gunther offer suggestions. Jackson goes with him!

Aleax ignores everyone and begins a systematic search of the giant. He won't be accompanying anyone... or listening to anyone.

The party is splitting into 3 parts!

(G.M. NOTE: In this particular case, I'm going to give descriptions of what both Ziber AND the rest of the party (sans Aleax) sees. This way, I won't have to give elaborate descriptions more than once. Naturally, everyone will have to pretend they know nothing about what they can't 'see'. I can assure all concerned that any such transgressions will be met with the ruthless retribution that has become my hallmark.)

___ZIBER’S GROUP___

Ziber darts down the left-side ancient passage and enters a deserted chamber that is largely empty. Its not too well lit either but there are a few hanging lanterns that prevent total darkness. Centered in this spooky room is a strange set of stairs. Obviously of ancient construction, the individual steps are flat planes of clear plastic affixed to a slope. The railing on either side of these rising steps is clear with continuous strips of black padding. These steps lead up to a darkened opening higher in the wall opposite the side in which Ziber entered.

To his left, there is a large wooden platform just sort of haphazardly placed on the floor of the room. Behind it, the left wall (Also north) has two passages leading away from the chamber. The left one leads a short distance to a door that is boarded over with many nails. That particular hall doesn't look entirely stable either. The other exit leads down about 7 or eight meters to a rather richly carved wooden door set with large (And perhaps gaudy) iron hinges.

To Ziber's right (The south wall), there is a line of iron bars that separates off a section of this room. There is a locked gate that allows entry into this section. The back wall of this barred off section is collapsed but the most noteworthy feature of the area is the four prisoners trapped behind the bars! There is a man-sized froggish being, some kind of mushroom fungus being, an elderly PSH and... Lassiter! Lassiter is caked with mud and his fur is matted down. He looks haggard and weak. The others appear to have suffered savage beatings and appear to be near death. It’s painful to look at. Especially hard for the cat is the sight of Lassiter’s tiny hands gripping the bars as he screeches desperately for help...

___JACKSON’S GROUP___

Moving down the tunnel passage, Hagus, Jackson, Gunther & Gasgut come upon a well-lit cavern filled with plenty to look at! (By the way, before catching up, it appears Gasgut grabbed a few weapons, etc.. He carries a laser in each hand!!)

At any rate, there is a seated PSH hunched over a table that fits Kipton's description. He is thin and pale and barely acknowledges the party's entrance. Looking over his shoulder, he squints a bit and says, "Are you the ones making all the racket? Can't you see I'm working." He then turns back to his task, ignoring the group!

There are a number of tables in here piled with ancient baubles in various states of disrepair. There is an impressive tool kit, plenty of lights and even some ancient books. There is a sleeping area and even a small waterfall at the rear of the cavern that could easily serve as a bath/toilet.

In one portion of the cavern is a strange looking ancient machine with many boxes and wires all about it.

This is just an amazing 'workshop' filled with all manners of curiosities!

___JACKSON’S GROUP___

Jackson hears Hagus but doesn't seem to pay much attention. Instead, his eyes dart around the cavern and his head turns from side to side. Still breathing hard, he speaks with a painful expression.

"Man, this ain't no good. We'll be all trapped up in here. If you want him," motioning towards the busy human, "bring him along but we can't sit here. No way."

___ZIBER’S GROUP___

Ziber peeks back into the grand cavern from the hall, calling to Aleax, "Hey! Look for some keys out there!" Busy stuffing his pockets, the winged elf doesn't even look up. He does hold up a key ring, though, with two keys on it. And jingles it in the cat's direction before tossing it onto the cavern floor with a clatter. He then continues his enthusiastic search of the giant's body...

As Gasgut enters the workshop/cavern, he sees Hagus rummaging around, Jackson leaning on his rifle & Gunther readying the medi-kit for use on Kipton.

As these things take place, Aleax strolls in - looking satisfied and 'innocent'. About 30 seconds later, Ziber bounds in with a haggard looking but ALIVE Lassiter!

It takes a couple of minutes to get set up but Gunther is able to apply the ancient healing device to Kipton. The frail prisoner tries to resist but he is weak from near starvation and so Gunther is able to force his will upon the poor fellow. After a few moments, the man begins blinking and his eyes take on a look of self-awareness - its working!

Suddenly, Jackson raises a finger to his lips, saying, "SHHHOOOOOOOOHHH... I hear some voices out there. Get ready, they'll be comin' now."

Jackson listens intently to the words of Gasgut & Hagus. As the frontiersman has a strong survival instinct, he takes the advice and begins loading all muskets. His painful wounds hinder him some but he quietly and quickly does this work. Each time he loads one, he leans it up by the entrance to the room.

While Jackson quietly goes about this task, Gasgut IS - in fact – quickly and effectively able to explain the operation of these lasers. It’s quite simple really, once you understand all those buttons...

Just as everyone seems to be nodding with understanding, Kipton speaks up with a strong whisper. "I don't know who you are but I want to join you. I can fight." He makes his way to his bed, reaches under it and pulls out a loaded flintlock. "All I want to do is get OUT of here! That monster won't ever scratch me again. I'll kill myself first." Pausing, he looks around the group as if only now taking them all in for the first time in detail. "I'd ask why you're here and who sent you but there's no time. It’s enough for me that we have the same enemy. There are NO other exits from this room – and another thing... Tok-Tog has at least one hand grenade that he bought just a few days ago. If he throws it in here, we've all had it."

Lassiter half flutters & half walks over to Kipton's bed and crawls under the blankets. Turning and turning, he quickly makes himself appear to be nothing more than a lumpy pile of linens. His dark eyes and twitching snout can barely be seen under the folds...

Watching him, Aleax cocks an eyebrow and steps over to the heaviest looking table. Quickly (And with relative quiet) he turns it on its side and crouches behind it, checking his revolver as he does so...

Jackson waves Gunther off with a weak smile, saying, "Just a minute now. Wait just a minute..."

As Gunther finds his place, he does an excellent job of concealing himself. All the while, everyone else is holding their breath - waiting for the cat to report...

His drawn face revealing intense thought, Kipton walks back over to his worktable. He picks up the object he had been working on and quickly screws on another part with a green button on it. Looking toward the passage, he says in a hushed tone, "I think I may have a plan..."

Kipton pauses as Ziber reports. Once the cat mentions the invisible one, Kipton says, "Screen me. Get in front of me. Do it now, while there's still time..."

Moving down the hall, Kipton steps out into the main cavern - followed by Hagus, Gasgut, Jackson, Ziber and Lassiter. Aleax lags behind a bit & Gunther is in the rear...

This is what the group sees:

At the stalagmites are two mutants. Both wear chainmail & have drawn longswords. They are kicking over the bodies and are cautiously looking about the area. In the area between the large rock formation and the stairs (The stairs that the party descended when entering) are two more mutants checking the dead. One wears leather and has a mace & shield. The other wears studded leather and carries a spear & javelins.

Further back, near the stream, Tok-Tog is clearly visible. He is kneeling behind a flat rock that is used as a food-processing table. Using it as cover, he is carefully scrutinizing the scene - that is, until the party makes itself known. Seeing the group, and Kipton, he rises to a half crouch but says nothing.

Kipton takes a step forward, shouting, "Hold it! FREEZE! I've finished the trigger and you DON'T own me now! I'm getting OUT of this place and no one had better try and stop me. I'll die first and I'll take all of this with me. I'm not bluffing!" The pale man trembles slightly and has already begun to sweat. With a clenched jaw, he stands firm though - holding the 'trigger' in his left hand and his flint-lock in his right.

Tok-Tog calls back, "What IS this? Who are you people and who is this man to YOU? You think you can break into my home, slaughter my people and just LEAVE? It’s NOT so easy!" The quill-covered mutant is obviously enraged.

Very near Kipton and the party, a voice poses a question (The voice is coming from thin air!), "Why don't we talk about this? There's been too much killing here. No one else has to get hurt..."

Appearing hesitant, Tok-Tog finally responds. "So... you're being PAID? It's money that makes you fight. Perhaps we can talk. Yes - let’s put down our weapons and... talk.

(Footsteps of an invisible individual QUICKLY approach the party. Kipton turns his head in that direction, pulling back the arm that holds the 'trigger', shouting, "NOOOOOOO!!!")

Tok-Tog purses his dark lips in thought as he clutches his rifle. Seeing the group moving toward the stairs, he calls out, "Grukus! Let them pass!"

The other 4 mutants (At the stalagmites and the large rock) have already taken cover but leer at the group with malicious intent.

Nearing the steps that lead up to the exit passage, a sweat soaked Kipton pauses. In a low voice he breaths, "Wait." After a pause he says, "Some of them must be outside. They're waiting for us outside..." Looking nervously at his new companions, he suddenly blurts out a yelled command to Tok-Tog. "Give me your rifle! It will be proof to any outside that we have an agreement. Put it down and back away! Take these others with you! PUT IT DOWN!!"

Tok-Tog definitely seems very hesitant about doing THIS although the 'trigger' bluff is currently working.

Aleax, by the way, doesn't obey Hagus. Instead he positions himself behind the others to the degree that their bodies offer the maximum cover should Tok-Tog suddenly open fire.

Tok-Tog commands his henchmen, "Get back here... get back. You too Grukus. Come to me."

Without hesitation, the various mutants (& apparently the invisible one) begin walking backwards at a reasonably quick pace until they are all in the vicinity of the quilled warlord. After pausing a bit too long, Tok-Tog gingerly puts down his rifle (He's over 30 meters from the party) and the entire group begins to step back across the stream. It seems there are stepping stones that are JUST below the surface of the fast current. Once on the other side, they spread out a bit and continue to glare at the party. Tok-Tog, however, maintains an air of civility and has his hands raised about half way...

Aleax says in an aloof voice, "It doesn't take wings to 'scout' the hall. YOU go do it Q-ball. Besides, they may have trapped that exit door by now."

Lassiter, on all fours with his nose twitching, takes flight! Flapping about a bit, he quickly heads for the dropped rifle. The spear-wielding mutant prepares to throw as the bat nears them but Tok-Tog stops him. With no hesitation, the bat snatches up the weapon and rapidly beats his wings in a beeline back to the party. His tiny teeth displayed in a wide grin, Lassiter chirps, "Look at my new rifle!" He is deeply satisfied by this...

After a few moments, Tok-Tog calls out across the cavern strewn with bodies in pools of blood. The rushing stream mutes the sound of his voice a bit but he can be heard well enough. "Be gone! Go the way you came! And pray I never find you!"

Moving into the passage (WHILE keeping an eye on Tok-Tog & Co.), the group makes its way to the steel door. Jackson stays behind, saying, "Ya'll give a holler when you get the thing open! I'll be watchin' 'em..."

Since the key is still broken off in the lock, the door is hopelessly jammed. However, Aleax moves up and makes an attempt at lock picking. After a few minutes he gives up in frustration. Looking around with anger, he snaps, "We've got four lasers, right? Let's point them at the lock and melt the damn thing off!"

(G.M. NOTE: In the interest of pacing, I am going to take a few liberties here that I doubt anyone will object to. If so... TOO BAD! HAAAAA, HA, HA!)

Aleax's suggestion, it is found, has great merit. With direct concentrated fire, the lock literally turns to molten steel and melts to a point where the door can be forced open. Once open, the party ultimately encounters five (5) mutants outside - coming forward from the tree line and down from the hilltop. Jackson's horse is out there too but Koosie and his horse are nowhere to be seen.

Kipton confronts these surprised members of Tok-Tog's gang with the revelation that he is free from their master's influence, he has been rescued and Tok-Tog himself has given his precious rifle as proof of free passage beyond this place. Uncertain and confused, the mutants offer no armed response to the party's passing. With Jackson catching up (And collecting Horse's body), the group makes its way into the forest - in the direction of Jainus and tracks left by Koosie's centisteed.

It is about 9:00 p.m. roughly and it is about 6 km or so to Jainus...

Once into the darkness of the wooded hills and about ½ km from the cave opening, Jackson (With Horse's body over his saddle) says, "Well, we gave 'em hell alright. Ol' Tok-Tog is still out there, though. He'll be a lookin' for all of us - you can count on it. As for me, I guess I'll catch up with Koosie and we'll move on. I really wanted to kill 'im. Well... all I did was get my friend here killed. An look here - I'll be much obliged to take back his personal effects. He'd wanta be buried with'em. I guess that's what I'll do."

In the shadows, Lassiter's small form can be seen flapping up to a high tree limb for safety. Aleax seems to have vanished altogether though he is certainly somewhere nearby - up in a tree, behind some dark brush or something. It’s dark in the forest at night.

Jackson scratches his stubbled face as Gunther speaks and looks on thoughtfully. He seems to appreciate Ziber's gesture even more. Glancing over at Horse's body (Slung over his saddle), Jackson says, "Nahhh... his people have a custom. They'll want him buried as a warrior - that's what he'd want too. He'll need his gear in the Happy Hunting Grounds. His boots, his rifle, his tomahawk and medicine pouch - these were his only belongings in life. I can't put 'im in the cold ground without 'em..."

Kipton, still quite nervous and excited, looks around the dark scene with a worried expression.

Having shaken everyone's hand (And paw), Jackson leads his centisteed away from the party. "Good luck to y’all. I gotta find Koosie and get on outa here. I'm sorry we didn't kill 'im. You know I wanted to. Well... I hope ya'll make it on to wherever you're takin' the feller. Like I said... good luck to ya'."

Within a few moments, the wounded frontiersman, his mount & dead comrade vanish in the darkness of the woods.

As Hagus redirects the party to the trail, Kipton speaks as he walks, "I don't think Tok-Tog will pursue us tonight. But I'm not so sure about going back to Jainus. He has friends there and he can communicate with them from his base. By the way, where ARE you from? You say you came to rescue... me. But my village was destroyed and everyone killed." Tears welling up in his eyes, he sniffs, "How could you know? Why risk your lives for ME?" The moonlight dimly illuminates the man's drawn & pale flesh.

Above the group, a dark-winged form passing overhead momentarily blocks the moon. Aleax, it seems, has taken flight to perform one of his 'errands'.

Kipton stops and exclaims, "Janger! Oh, I SHOULD have known! That loyal friend..." Smiling, Kipton begins walking again, saying, "I can't wait to thank him in person." Holding up the 'trigger', Kipton continues. "This is meant to activate the device that Tok-Tog has named the Yorkem Tortel. He found it in an ancient research station near Janger's village. However, it’s not functional from a remote location and that is what he wanted me to rectify. While I believe its possible, I must say that he still poses VERY GREAT danger to the people of this country and especially to those who dwell in Jainus. His plan is to detonate this device and destroy the town and everyone in it. This would install HIM as local head of the Iron Society and grant him a reputation as a ruthless killer. The device, you see, is a bomb - but no ordinary bomb, to be sure. It is immensely powerful and it was such devices that brought on the Great Darkness. But there's more... this one has an artificial mind and can be conversed with. It’s a bit demented if you ask me and seems to relish the 'thought' of exercising its function. I don't know... perhaps such dialogue was considered a safety precaution in ancient times. If so, it didn't help in the end. While my extraction has certainly halted his plans, there is ample means within Jema Farb to complete his scheme should he choose to journey there." Walking on for a few paces in silence, he adds, "For our safety, we must avoid Jainus. However, those poor people don't have any notion of the dire threat to their lives that Tok-Tog has hidden in his caves..."

About this time, Ziber darts back onto the trail. The cat is obviously frustrated in his attempt to pursue the soaring elf. Taking a breather, Ziber begins preening his paws. It’s at this time that both Gunther and Hagus give out. Having been running on pure adrenaline since the escape from Tok-Tog's lair, it’s now obvious that they simply carry too much weight for sustained travel. Hagus will likely need to drop (Or transfer to someone else) one of the two muskets he's hauling. Either that, or he'll need to somehow shed about 5 kg. In the case of Gunther, the Tech IV tool-kit that he grabbed is a real burden, weighing 10 kg. Also, his flail is very heavy weighing in at a whopping 8 kg. Whatever he does, he needs to shed about 7 kg to continue on.

As the group takes a breather, about 20 minutes passes before someone points to the sky. Its Aleax up there, all right. Circling the area, he seems to have finished his mysterious task...

Flapping down from a nearby tree limb, Lassiter speaks up in his familiar (But currently weakened) squeaky voice, "Kipton, if Tok-Tog believes - or is forced to assume - that you CAN detonate the Yorkem Tortel from a distance, how far would such a distance be? It seems THAT would be our 'free passage' range before we can expect attacks. I mean, I think we can be tracked by

someone experienced in such things." Lassiter's dark eyes glisten...

"About 30 km was my intended distance," Kipton replies. "And yes, he knows I'll die before being captured again and he'll HAVE to assume I'm not bluffing about the trigger. It is difficult to decide what to do."

Sitting nearby, Lassiter vigorously scratches behind his ear with his leg. After he finishes, he says, "If we go into town, I say we do it in the morning when there are people in the streets and everything is open. Tonight I think we're as likely to be arrested as anything else..."

After resting, the party continues on for another hour or so until locating a rocky cul-de-sac between farms (About 2km southeast of Jainus). It’s a good place for a camp as there is water nearby and a bit of shelter from a rocky overhang. It even appears to have been used for this purpose in the past. Aleax finally descends and lights upon a large flat rock, folding his dark wings and looking on silently. He appears to be studying Kipton...

Putting down his gear, an exhausted Kipton simply lies down on a patch of ferns and falls asleep. Twitching his nose, Lassiter waddles up and asks, "Who's taking first watch?"

Lassiter sends leaves and twigs flying as he scrambles to his feet and takes flight. The flapping bat makes an erratic line for some nearby trees, his small form getting almost lost in the darkness. Kipton rolls over blinking his eyes.

As Gasgut turns to throw a bola and Hagus makes his charge, the normally dull-witted elf is NOT surprised. In addition, he actually gets the initiative and takes flight!

Hagus' attempt is obviously frustrated as his foe takes to the air. Gasgut's thrown bola does connect but it’s at such long range (Over 30 meters) that it looses most of its force and just basically bounces off the flying target (i.e. Blue Result @ Long Range).

(G.M. NOTE: The party is now {Temporarily, perhaps} out of 'Combat Time')

Circling overhead, Aleax calls down to Gasgut and Hagus. "I always thought you'd try something like this. You should have picked a better time! I'll GET you for this... when you LEAST expect it!" The enraged dark elf than simply flies off in the night - disappearing over the tree tops.

Coming back to Gasgut's small smoldering fire, the mutated bat squeaks, "Well... this isn't good. I've never been this far from home and it’s a long way back to Janger and Matsy. We may have to fight badders and who knows what else on the way. This is bad." He sits down near the pile of smoking leaves and twigs. Grabbing a thin stick, he thoughtfully prods the thing to get it burning a bit faster.

The night passes with everyone keeping alert watches for Tok-Tog's pursuit and/or some kind of retribution by Aleax...

Kipton, for one, looks a lot better than he did but the morning light only highlights the obvious strain he's been under. Lassiter looks on (Chewing a piece of juicy green fruit that he's found) when Kipton speaks. "Good morning all. You don't know how anxious I am to get the hell out of here, but... I see that you are all wounded - hardly fit for the journey, I think. It would be good to find a place, a house or village maybe... a place to hole up and prepare. I can see that we'll need rations as well. If we can get past Jainus, maybe we can find a suitable spot for some short-term construction and reconnoitering. What do you think?"

Lassiter wrinkles his black snout and spits out the fruit pulp he'd been chewing. "Agggh! You're right, we need to search for some better food!"

Kipton nods in agreement, saying, "I don't know of any one place along the road that would be best to camp, but getting out of HERE is a very good idea. Tok-Tog will come looking for us. If I were him, I'd have scouts everywhere and as many telepaths as possible. For all we know, they're ALREADY watching the road west of Jainus. That dark skinned one - the one who left last night. I notice he hasn't returned... what does this mean? Is he an enemy? Forgive me, I don't know but - what are his motivations? He knows our location..."

"Damn him!" utters Lassiter.

Kipton frowns in thought and then says, "There is another option. We could move south. With luck, we can find an ancient road in that direction within two days. That road is avoided by virtually everyone in this country. It’s believed to be cursed and, supposedly, leads to haunted ruins. Of course", he says with a shrug, "there are the usual tales of treasure and ancient relics to be had there but one thing's a fact - I've never heard of a successful expedition on that road. NO ONE returns." Looking at each party member, one after the other, he says, "They'd never expect us to go that way. If we do, and can find a way across the Ambush, we can reach the coast and follow it westward." Pausing, he adds, "Of course, we would not be SEEKING any 'haunted ruins'. I simply point out that we aren't likely to be followed that way..."

Readying for travel, Gunther prepares his coveted med-kit for use on the wounded party. Ignoring his own damage, he applies it first to Gasgut. Using six charges, Gasgut is restored to 100% health! The device does not function as well on Hagus' mutant physiology. Using four charges, Hagus is however healed for 50 points! Ziber's feline system is even more alien to the device's analysis & treatment processes. Six precious charges are expended to heal meager 20 points for the wounded cat. Two charges, though, are enough to heal up Lassiter completely!

The device's medical banks nearly exhausted, Gunther packs it away and prepares to journey...

Heading south, per Kipton's plan, the party quickly departs from the relatively 'civilized' landscape of the countryside surrounding Jainus. The forest (And oft times swampy) terrain is wild and dense - the pace is slow.

A number of the adventurer's Talents prove invaluable as the journey progresses - namely Gunther's sighting and the Scouting Talent that both Hagus and Gasgut possess. Lassiter's ability to fly about and find the best routes is also, of course, very valuable.

Having traveled about 6 km, Lassiter excitedly descends through the trees to report. His snout twitching with agitation, he squeaks, "There are bodies up ahead. I didn't get close; they're near a strange orb that is half sunk in a bog. I couldn't see too well and didn't want to take chances. It’s only about 50 meters ahead! Also... I've spotted that elf. He's following us and using the treetops for cover as much as he can. He knows I've seen him though..."

"Sounds like trouble." Kipton says in a hushed tone.

"Yeah, but they have weapons - GOOD ones too!" Lassiter exclaims.

Hagus moves ahead... alone.

Gunther moves ahead, leaving Gasgut, Kipton, Lassiter and Flit behind.

As Gunther makes his way forward, trying to locate the cat and Hagus, he is in no way as quiet as they are.

As Gasgut looks on, Kipton & Lassiter frown a bit with concern. What's noticeably absent in the setting is any significant reaction to the large hummingbird's return. (G.M. NOTE: In game time, its actually only been about 48 hours since he flew off...)

Kipton eyes him warily but seems to accept the new arrival as he is obviously an acquaintance of his rescuers. He shuffles to the side a bit in order to stay clear of those constantly beating wings...

Lassiter flaps about through the dense forest and lights upon a branch near Flit, squeaking, "Welcome back. We could have used your help in Tok-Tog's cavern! Vladimir didn't make it out." The bat's small beady eyes look around a bit and then he says, "Look what I have - Tok-Tog's rifle!" He grins widely, displaying his tiny needle-like teeth.

The Gamma World's sun hangs low in the sky, casting reddish orange streaks across the horizon beyond the forested swamps. The sounds of Gunther's tromping steps fade into the familiar chorus of wilderness insects and birds that buzz, chirp, caw, bleep & blort without let up.

Lassiter sort of sits there for about 30 seconds and then says to Flit, "Aleax is behind us - about 200 meters, I'd say. He's probably making his way closer as we speak." Pointing his rifle down at the ground, where Gasgut is standing, he says, "He and the elf have had a scuffle. Now the elf trails us seeking some sort of surprise revenge. It’s quite bad, actually..."

Below, Gasgut ignores the bat (And Flit, for that matter) as he keeps a watch for any signs of trouble - Aleax or no Aleax.

(Another G.M. NOTE: The party's rations are running very low. Originally, the group set out with about 2 weeks worth. Well, that time is up. While some food was salvaged from the packs & pouches of slain mutants, and Jackson & co. shared theirs, the party has enough to last about another day or so - and that's stretching it. Water isn't such a problem as Lassiter is able to locate running sources from the air and, in any event, it hasn't been too difficult so far. However, skins can't be filled with standing swamp water and that is where the party finds itself now. Very shortly, the group will be forced to address the critical issue of Survival in this Gamma wilderness...

Also, certain mutated animals such as Lassiter & Flit have sort of a built-in advantage in this area as they can occasionally locate nourishment where others can't. However, even they require 'home terrain' in which to find their standard favorites. It’s much different in a strange environment.)

Lassiter listens as Gasgut speaks. Looking down from his tree limb, he just sort of stares at the human, as if not comprehending him...

About 50 yards from the party (In the direction from which it has come so far), there is a noise that gets everyone's attention. Its the sound of an old dried tree limb snapping off and falling a long way to the ground through other limbs. Looking that way, everyone can make out the spread wings and dark form of Aleax. Evidently, he'd been trying to sneak closer (To get a listen, perhaps...) and failed to be as sneaky as he'd hoped.

Grim faced, Kipton clutches his musket.

Lassiter, too, turns in that direction, half raising his fine new rifle. His black leathery snout twitches rapidly.

Before collapsing onto the broad green leaves of some mutated forest plant, Kipton yawns and says, "I have no idea what the thing is. But it worries me."

Lassiter locates a hollowed tree near Gasgut and climbs in. Kicking out an old bird nest, he moves around inside a bit until finally attaching himself upside down and closing his small eyes for sleep.

Flit flies back and doesn't seem to have anything to report. By the time the bird comes back around, the party has long since bedded down & Hagus has assumed his hidden watch. Flit bounces around a bit and then takes his nightly rest along with the others...

Eventually, Gasgut relieves Hagus (As the others sleep) and takes his turn at watch. He is all too well aware of what could spring from the darkness in any direction - not to mention gunshots & poison arrows. Listening intently to every sound that emanates from the camp's perimeter, Gasgut is drawn to the sound of movement to his right. Instinctively turning that way (Just a

natural reflex action) he doesn't see the winged evil elf diving down from his left! However, Gasgut gets a lucky break as the not-so-bright-elf grazes some tree branches with a wing and Gasgut whirls to face him - NOT Surprised!

Aleax is attacking with a garrote! He's trying to KILL Gasgut!

Gasgut instantly raises his musket to fire at Point Blank range! The dark elf smiles as his eyes betray an attempt to Beguile but it has NO EFFECT!

It all happens so fast but Aleax's garrote attempt is thwarted by Gasgut's musket shot that grazes the dark elf. Taking his black leather armor into account, Aleax would have been grazed but his Kinetic Negation nullifies ALL damage!

(G.M. NOTE: Except for Aleax & Gasgut, all others must spend the next round waking up, getting up, grabbing nearby weapons, etc.. Of course, Hero points could negate the delay if desired. It appears that Aleax's intention is to fly away again...)

Lassiter pokes his furry face out of the knothole in the tree, his small dark eyes blinking. Quickly, he begins scrambling out to get to his rifle that he left leaning up against the thick roots below.

Kipton rolls over and grabs up his musket, not certain of just what to do.

As mentioned earlier, Aleax is (Evidently) wanting to fly away now that his assassination attempt has been aborted. However, he is quick to flash his sardonic Beguiling gaze at Hagus. Whether it will have any effect or not depends upon who gets the initiative and, of course, dame fortune.

Getting the Initiative, Gagsut again flings his bola at the winged menace but misses completely. Beguiled, Hagus hesitates and doesn't let loose with the arrow. Aleax flies off into the darkness again.

Morning arrives in the wooded swampy wilderness and the party members begin to feel a distinct sensation... HUNGER!

**** Posted as private mail to Hagus and Gasgut before reading the other posts ****

Together with Gasgut, you [Hagus] move ahead through the marshy woods. Gunther, Kipton and Ziber either won't or will not follow.

Coming upon the scene again, you notice that nothing has changed. As Gasgut stands guard, you move up to inspect the bodies and salvage their weapons. As soon as you get to the bodies (They are about 4-6 meters away from the orb), you collapse!

The orb is emitting some sort of powerful field! You suffer 9 points of Ability Damage! Your ST has been reduced to 3 and you collapse under the weight of your own gear.

It occurs to you that this orb is somehow sapping your strength. You can feel its humming vibration much stronger here and you feel very light headed. You think you might be able to get away if you shed your armor, shield, musket & other heavy gear. You also feel that if you try to move closer, or from one body to another, you will suffer further ST loss and be TRAPPED here!

Incidentally, you lie next to one of the 'not-men'. As you earlier suspected, he isn't a living being but more like 'Porter' from the ancient underground facility near Janger's camp. He appears weathered and a bit worse for wear and tear but certainly not significantly damaged in any way. He holds a HP bolt action rifle similar to Lassiter's except this one has a complex tubular fitting atop the barrel. He has an ammo pouch and some other kind of Tech IV tubular device on his belt - its purpose is unknown to you.

The others lie at various locations about the orb but at roughly the same distance from it. Again, you think you can move/crawl back along the path you came but to further disturb the damage field will drain your ST completely!

Clawing, pulling and growling, Ziber is able to help Hagus crawl free!

Seeing Hagus too weak to carry virtually any of his equipment, or even wear armor, Kipton muses, "Hmmm." Rubbing his chin, he states, "I think Gunther is at least partially correct about this phenomenon. The orb seems to have quite an appetite for energy and, evidently in a variety of forms. The question arises - what does it require energy FOR? It could be anything!"

Flit finds his lack of Knot Tying & Untying Talent to hinder his lasso fashioning effort. He does his best though.

Watching him toss it and try to retrieve items (Again & again) it becomes obvious that it could take hours to remove gear from these bodies in this fashion - and even then, only a couple of things could be 'fished' out this way. It’s not impossible though - it will simply take an inordinate amount of time.

Additionally, after about 20 minutes of Flit's efforts, it’s also noticed that Hagus isn't recovering.

Lassiter doesn't hesitate. He flaps off after Flit and the two of them disappear over the treetops...

"Good luck!", shouts Kipton encouragingly. Ziber looks up from his morning catnap with mild interest as well.

Kipton walks over to Hagus and begins working the action on his newly salvaged rifle, instructing him in its loading, firing, overall function and care. "This thing's in good shape." he declares as a matter of fact.

Examining the metal pipe/tube, he opens a panel on its side and frowns. Handing it back to Hagus, he just shakes his head saying, "Not only is there no battery, but its all burnt out. THAT is useless without some hard to find parts... An exciting find nonetheless, though."

Its about this time that Ziber's ears perk up a bit and his sleepy eyes become alert. The cat hears something - something in the woods.

Soon everyone hears it; it sounds as if something (Or things) is moving throughout the swampy plant-life toward the party's position. They're pretty close too - within 25 meters.

The rustling in the woods suddenly stops. For a few tense moments, the only sounds are those of the mutant swamp bugs, toads and birds that blurp, croak and call throughout this wilderness.

Then a deep raspy voice calls from the mossy woods. "You... who ARE you?" A second and similar voice asks, "Yes. WHO are you? Come closer so we can 'see' you..."

Kipton's eyes display undisguised fear as these voices speak. He quietly drops down to one knee behind a large mold covered log, pointing his musket in the direction of the voices.

In addition, Aleax can clearly be seen gliding to a high branch on a large tree near the party to observe the goings on. From his vantage-point, he is about 15 meters off the ground with a good field of fire and he does, in fact, draw his HP revolver... smiling a sardonic grin.

Quickly shimmying back into his heavy studded leather, the feeble Hagus finds that he no longer has the strength to use his new rifle! Well, he can lift it for short periods of time and perhaps rest it on a log but there's no way he could carry it around in combat. It’s a sorry sight.

There is a very long pause and then one of the voices can be heard again. "Your weapons. They frighten us. We hate violence and the mere sight of weapons causes us great distress. Please put them away!"

Kipton, with his tongue in his cheek, looks around at Hagus, Gunther & Gasgut with squinted eyes.

From the trees where the voices could be heard, come 4 large figures of bizarre appearance. They are about 3 meters tall and about 1.5 meters wide. They're some kind of plant creatures!

Basically tubular or trunk shaped, they shuffle along on thick mobile roots. A few spindly vines dangle from their central bodies but they seem to have no manipulative limbs of any kind. What's fascinating and frightening about them is that they appear at least partly 'animal' in that their large trunks are topped with a dark lipped toothy maw (Much like a fat upright walking worm...). On either side of this wide mouth are two ganglia of tangled roots and dark plumb bulbs - 'eyes' perhaps? At any rate, they walk sort of stooped over so as to present the 'mouth' to the 'front' of the creature.

Shuffling forward, they pause about 10 meters from the party. One of them moves a meter closer and asks, "WHO is causing the 'buzzing' and do you have any MEAT?" You notice his large form shudder slightly as he asks about food and can also see a bit of slimy drool ooze from his disturbing maw.

Aleax shifts his position so as to be more behind cover up there in the tall tree. He points his revolver directly at the large speaking plant.

Kipton whispers loudly out of the side of his mouth (Never lowering his musket or taking his eyes off of them), "Sri-Hu... they must be attracted to the orb’s vibration. Typically, they only attack by ambush but they WILL attack us if they're hungry enough. Fresh meat is all that motivates them. Whatever you do, don't put down your guns..."

As Kipton speaks, much of what he says makes good sense - especially the ambush part. These plants have an amazing ability to shift the color and patterns of their green 'flesh' to blend into their environment. Their Chameleon like gift could easily render them nearly invisible in this swamp.

Hagus' charisma, perhaps, discourages a completely friendly response though it seems that these plant monsters are inclined toward peaceful intentions. At any rate, they are interested in the words spoken by the hairless mutant and shuffle a few meters toward the orb. The tangled, vines massed around their maws wriggle and twitch as they do so.

Pausing, they huddle up together and their 'foot' roots begin intertwining and writhing together - perhaps in some strange communication ritual known only to their kind.

Coming apart again, three of them begin moving toward the bodies while the one that spoke remains still, evidently 'watching' the party.

Watching from above, Aleax looks on as Hagus dumps gear on the ground. Springing from his perch, he glides to a much lower branch on a nearby tree and lights upon that instead. Looking on with a smile, he notices that even after removing these items, Hagus can not even BUDGE his pack, nor can he rise and move off with the burden of that rifle in his feeble arms.

As the 3 large plants move even closer toward the orb, the dark fleshed elf looks at them and then back down at Hagus. Chuckling, he says, "Your first plan wasn't too bad. I think I WILL have dinner in Jainus tonight. But THIS plan... tsk, tsk... what are you thinking?"

The lone plant beast (that remained still) shuffles a bit closer to the party as if to better 'hear' what Hagus (And Aleax) have been saying.

As Gunther says his piece & Gasgut makes for Hagus' heavy pile o' gear, Aleax cocks an eyebrow.

The lone plant suddenly starts thumping his thick roots on the ground and the other three stop in their tracks (Only 4 or 5 meters from where Hagus fell). Turning, they face the party...

BLAM! BLAM! Aleax fires two HP rounds at the motionless plant! Not only do the elf's shots miss (And miss badly) but the kick from his heavy-duty revolver throws him off balance - Aleax slips and falls from the low branch and hits the ground! Aleax is stunned!

Roaring with rage, the plant monsters amble toward the party with what amounts to charging speed! (It will take them all of the next combat round to close for melee...)

Ziber, drawing his revolver, moves back with Gasgut, Hagus and Kipton. The cat has no interest in retrieving dropped items.

As Gunther moves to the fallen elf, Aleax Heroically shakes off the effects of his fall, gets the initiative and takes to the air! PSSOOOH! Gunther fires his one-shot pistol but is buffeted by the sudden flapping of Aleax's large leathery wings. Gunther's shot misses wide and he falls!

The four Sri-Hu converge on Gunther. They've closed with the intention of making him their DINNER and Gunther's on the ground!

These mutant plant monsters aren't going to listen to persuasion now – not that Hagus can be heard anyway over the sounds of fighting...

Ziber & Kipton take a combat stance to fire their weapons at short-range!

(G.M. NOTE: All of this, Hagus' action, Ziber & Kipton firing and anything Gunther and Gasgut do will all happen simultaneously. There's also the matter of Initiative - which the party will have...

Of course, Gunther is on the ground - basically surrounded by these towering terrors. Ziber, Kipton, Hagus & Gasgut are within about 8 meters away and within an area of large trees.

It should also be noted that Aleax soars overhead. Flapping his wings, he's gaining altitude in an upward spiral but not leaving the area.)

Gunther's large plastic shield comes in handy as he struggles to his feet!

A small volley of fire erupts as Gasgut, Kipton and Ziber shoot into the melee. Amazingly, the only thing to hit is one of Ziber's revolver rounds. One of the plant beasts is struck for 10 points of damage and a sizable chunk of its soft green flesh is blown off!

That one lumbers forward, bends and lunges - biting Ziber on the arm! The cat's leather gear prevents 10 points. Ziber suffers 4 points of damage!

The other three snap at Gunther! One of them roars and it shudders a bit - then it attacks twice in a mind twisting blurred fashion. This mutant plant monster is Distorting Time! Gunther is bitten! His heavy furs stop 5 points but Gunther suffers 9 points of damage!

As Gasgut reaches for the second musket on the ground, Kipton hurriedly prepares to reload. Ziber is in melee! Hagus now has good aim on one of the three fighting Gunther!

Overhead (About 50 meters up), Aleax slowly circles...

As Kipton reloads, Hagus fires two rounds at the one he has been aiming at. It KNOWS he's aiming at it too and charges at Hagus! His first shot hits but the second misses. Plant matter is shot away in a green mist as the thing takes 30 points of damage! The creature is Stunned and stops moving momentarily as it sways...

Ziber (Makes his special melee/missile weapon DX roll) fires two more rounds at Point Blank range, claws and bites! His pistol rounds explode into its torso and it reels backward as he claws and bites deeply into it. It suffers 72 points of damage and dies!

Gasgut turns, steps up and fires at Hagus' foe at Point Blank Range! It’s blasted for another 18 points and howls in pain!

The other two bite at Gunther but he successfully defends himself and takes no damage! Going for his dagger, he stabs the one that's Distorting Time for 4 points.

Ziber quickly dumps his spent shells and reloads!

Hagus steps up and shoots again at Point Blank range! The thing quivers wildly as its mid section is blown out by 60 points of damage. It falls back dead!

Yelling "Benton!", Gasgut charges one of the two battling Gunther but it surprisingly dodges his sword attack! Gunther again jabs the Time Distorting plant for 2 points!

Kipton fires but misses everything again!

The towering plants biting at Gunther are frustrated by his large shield and Gunther suffers no damage!

Blam! Hagus' shot hits the one on Gunther for 30 points! Its Stunned! Simultaneously, Ziber fires two shots at it but misses both times! Ziber is hurting!

Gasgut tries to throw his dagger (Never a guarantee in melee...) but the creature butts him and he drops it! Gasgut slashes the beast with his fine longsword for 20 points of damage!

Kipton reloads!

Flit and Lassiter come into view overhead. They've finally returned!

The one battling Gasgut tries to flee, thus granting free attacks on its rear...

Kipton fires a musket at it and misses!

Ziber fires two shots and one round hits it for 20 points. The fleeing monster is also stunned!

Gasgut is able to turn and thrust his sword into the one that was fighting Gunther, KILLING it!

Lassiter dives down and fires a single shot into the one that tried to flee as it wafts Stunned - his HP rifle round at Point Blank range blows a huge chunk of flesh out and it collapses. The PLANT MONSTERS ARE DEAD!

NOW... Flit heads for the orb...

"THAT tells me there's a shortage of game in the area," says Kipton as he reloads. "That thing is attracting everyth..." Kipton pauses as he sees Flit hovering about 10 meters over the orb. Saying nothing, he looks around at the others...

Looking pleased with himself, Lassiter flaps down and lands upon one of the fallen plant creatures. "Good bullets!", he exclaims proudly (And Telepathically). However, his expression turns serious as he communicates that, "We just saw Aleax take off in the direction of Jainus. I think he's left us for good and I DON'T think he's up to any good."

With pursed lips and a concerned expression, Kipton says nothing as he watches Flit while reloading his musket.

Lassiter speaks to everyone's minds, "I think I could retrieve some of that stuff from the bodies if you'd like me to try. How do you know which thing we could use? It’s hard to tell from here."

Looking at the bodies, he then turns to Hagus. Communicating again, he says, "I think Flit & I should go buy supplies NOW. We're all starving and Aleax has only been gone a few minutes. If we give him a full day and night in town, who KNOWS how much trouble he'll stir up. Besides, we don't even have to fly all the way into Jainus. There are farms about the area and merchants come and go along the road and other trails. We could trade with them. How much money do we have? I don't have any at all. Everything was lost in that underground river (Suddenly, everyone's mind is filled with a frightening sensation of tumbling in an underground torrent...). Flit & I will need money - it shouldn't take much. Hmmm, perhaps we could trade some excess gear for food."

Lassiter squeaks a telepathic message to all. "Yes, I can fetch some of the gear from those fallen 'not-men', just so long as I can get within ten meters. It can't weigh more than about 4 kilograms but I can try every hour! Flit here can do the same thing!"

"We'll try tonight," he says as he takes Hagus' money and picks up some of Hagus' spare gear. Before leaving, he advises, "Find a new place to camp within a few hundred meters. I saw a good spot to the east when I was airborne earlier. Build a fire at sundown and make it plenty smoky. That way, we'll find you when we return. We'll also try to see if there is a party headed for us on foot..." With that, he and Flit fly off.

Later in the afternoon, but before sundown, lassiter and Flit return. Their mission was a success! They carry enough dried fruit, breads, jerky, trail mix, etc. to last the party 10 days! Lassiter even has two wine skins and herb pouches for soup & stew mixing. They've done well!

Walking about on the ground, the two of them are obviously very tired from the round-trip flight, as they were FULLY loaded with supplies. Nonetheless, Lassiter mind-squeaks, "Well, we have a couple of hours until dark. Maybe we can try to snatch some of that fine gear, eh?" He shows his small needle-like teeth in a black lipped smile

For slightly over two hours, Lassiter and Gunther stay near the orb and the mysterious bodies. While its still daylight, Gunther continually tries to rope one of those bodies with his 'noose'. Lassiter, meanwhile, clenches his fists and concentrates but nothing happens. Frustrated, he sits and watches as the human methodically, tosses, misses and then tries again & again.

Finally, just before it is too dark to see (AND at the point where rest becomes necessary), Lassiter tries his Mental Mutation again. This time, the auto pistol vanishes from its holster (From one of the bodies) and appears in Lassiter's small black hand! He beams with pride.

As its getting too dark to see and its long past time for food and rest, the intractable Gunther refuses to stop. As Lassiter yawns and readies to fly to the others, Gunther gasps with excitement - he's roped one around the ankle! With Lassiter's anxious help, they pull it out of the orb's perimeter and salvage its gear - a scattergun (Loaded), bandoleer with 37 extra shells, saber & dagger.

Now very tired and hungry, they are forced to join the others with their new finds and spend the night...

Morning finds the party rested and fairly well fed as Hagus distributed only half rations the night before (this won't affect performance immediately, but sustained marching on half rations will have the same effects as no rations - it will just take twice as long to reach the fatigue point)

At any rate, there was no sign of Aleax and Tok-Tog's gang during the night. All seems peaceful enough for the moment...

Taking his meager breakfast ration without complaint, Kipton ponders a bit. "I think we need to hurry back to Janger's camp. That winged friend of yours... Aleax." He just shakes his head as he chews. "I'm very worried. Tok-Tog WILL seek revenge and he still needs me to trigger the Yorkum Tortel. We've not seen the last of him. I can assure you of that."

Finishing his rough fair, he rather matter-of-factly moves about the camp demonstrating the action, loading, use and care of both the auto pistol (which is also loaded) and the scattergun to all interested in such things.

With Hagus settled in to recuperate, Gasgut strides back toward the orb with Flit's rope (Fashioned into a fairly well tied 'lasso' by Gunther). Lassiter flaps along behind him.

Once there, they note with concern that a large wild boar now lies within the orb's perimeter. "Hmmm, must have come upon it during the night, the poor fellow." Lassiter speaks to Gasgut's mind. Unsure of exactly how far back to stand and yet wanting to get as close as possible, Gasgut cautiously moves forward and begins tossing the rope.

The human's throwing talent helps compensate for the not-too-well designed lasso knot. Within about 40 minutes, he manages to snag the arm of the one with the extra auto-pistol clips and drag it out! Anxiously, he and Lassiter quickly remove its remaining gear - 9 extra auto-pistol clips, a longsword and a medium metal shield emblazoned with a painted image of a flaming war eagle. As Gasgut and Lassiter examine this shield, they discover it is an enchanted item! The thing is virtually weightless and seems to be constructed of the highest quality metal. (G.M. NOTE: In many cases, the function of enchanted items, or even the knowledge that they ARE majicked, will not be known. In this case, it doesn't matter particularly. So, this is a +2 med. Metal shield. It weighs nothing as far as traveling status is concerned and provides a -5 col. shift. In addition, when used as cover, the damage reduction is -25).

Now every excited, Lassiter looks at the two remaining bodies with gear but doesn't seem to feel he can use his mental powers to retrieve the heavy weapons they bear.

Additionally, as Gasgut has been busy, dark clouds have been rolling in from the south. They have a strange yet familiar color to them and the air is beginning to take on a metallic and acidic quality. The acid rain is coming in from the sea again!!

The party has about 30 minutes to act before the deadly rain begins to pelt the area.

Working feverishly, everyone pitches in in an attempt to throw together a quick shelter for protection. However, the acidic rain begins to drop before the effort even comes close to completion. Beginning to take damage, the party finds itself in DIRE straights.

Thinking fast, Lassiter uses his newfound Survival Talent to rise into the air and survey the surrounding area from above. Heroically, he locates a nearby ravine with a large clump of heavy roots that provide a thick overhang – large and wide enough for the party to huddle beneath. Leading the group to this place he's discovered, he shouts in everyone's mind, "Quick! Get in!"

Everyone suffers 5 points of damage moving to the hollowed ravine. Kipton, in agony from acid burns, is very near death. Barely able to speak, he says, "Med... medi... kit."

The rain continues, somewhat sporadically and often no more than a drizzle, for about 2 hours. Constantly having to shift position to avoid the burning waters, Hagus is denied the rest he had earlier sought.

Helping Kipton back to the camp, Gunther applies the ancient medical device and cures him completely! (-2 drug bank charges & 1 anti-burn charge). He hasn't looked THIS good since he was first encountered in the cavern. While he recuperates, Flit & Lassiter perch in the treetops to watch for trouble.

Moving back to the orb, Gunther, Gasgut, Hagus & Ziber pick their way through the still steaming foliage. Approaching the orb, it is noticed that a couple of large birds (Acid eaten) now lie within the perimeter. They must have flown into it in a panic while seeking cover...

At any rate, its quite difficult to gauge the safe boundary from which to attempt the lasso action. Nonetheless, Gasgut steps forward and begins to try. For about 30 minutes, he moves from one spot to another - throwing and then pulling back the rope - trying to get a good angle. It’s during one such attempt that he missteps somewhat. Evidently encountering the orb's expanded outer field, Gasgut loses 6 points of ST and collapses under the weight of his gear! Falling to his knees, the mighty human warrior blinks a few times and tries to steady himself from falling prone.

Gasgut makes it out of the sphere's influences along with all his gear. The swampy forest is still and quiet in the aftermath of the deadly storm.

Lassiter echoes the sentiments of Gasgut and Hagus, saying telepathically, "I don't want to go back to town. We might end up in one of those wagons headed for Juba-Red's dungeon!" Looking to Gunther, he says, "Kipton's plan wasn't too bad. Back there", motioning toward the hills & Jainus, "we're outnumbered and too much is unknown. Since we all need to agree, I hope you can see this."

Leaving the camp and the site of the strange orb, the party presses on in a south-south eastern direction. Lassiter uses his Swamp Survival Talent to guide the group as it marches. Speed is slow, however, due to the terrain and - of course - the heavy burden of gear and weapons that the party bears.

Making camp again, there is still no sign of pursuit. Both Lassiter and Flit report that all is clear as far as they can see.

The next morning, the party sets out again and - around mid-day – Lassiter flaps down through the trees with news. Speaking excitedly to everyone's minds, he says, "There's a group of humanoids ahead. About a dozen, I think. They're about 500 meters to the east of us and they're camped right now. It looks like they've built some temporary shelters. I think we could bypass them and not be seen, or I could go talk to them. What do you think we should do? They don't look like Tok-Tog's people from what I can see..."

It seems Lassiter must have slipped away during this interesting dialogue as his excited voice suddenly erupts into everyone's minds (And he circles overhead, a flappin' & a squeekin')...

Ignoring the half-submerged lizard, or perhaps not noticing him, he communicates, "I just got back from their camp. There are about 15 of them - humanoid mutants. A strange lot they are too. I spoke briefly with their leader, Stillweller. They were an expedition to a place called The Kee-Oon Catacombs. I'm not too sure about this lot but they seem fascinated with anything that might be radioactive. It’s like some kind of cult. Anyway, those shelters are to avoid any more deaths from the acid rains. There were about 20 newly covered graves from what I could see. I guess they lost more than half their number from that last one that rolled in. It’s worse than that, though. Stillweller says they're calling the expedition off. The Catacombs aren't radioactive - no. They're possessed with some kind of very dark and evil majicks and he warned me to turn back. He said he lost another 16 of his company to undead beings that prowl that area at night looking for souls to steal. He says we're headed straight for it! That must be the reason Janger marked that part of the map as a Bad Place. Stillweller says he thinks that the Catacombs offer a passage under the Ambush but it’s not worth trying. What's left of his group is in bad shape. Maybe Gunther's idea wasn't so bad."

Lassiter then lands and begins reaching into his shoulder pouch for rations when he sights the new arrival. His black snout twitching, he looks around the party and then to the lizard with suspicion.

The party gears up and spends the remainder of the afternoon moving a few more kilometers through the thick and treacherous swamps. Finally making camp, Lassiter's voice can be heard in everyone's head...

"Well, those Rads won't find us here. They'll be traveling in a completely different direction. My judgement is that this would be a good place to stay for a few days if need be. There's good running water over there. We've got good cover and firing points. Also, we can build a few small huts from these trees and those ferns." He indicates with his small, black hand the foliage to which he is referring.

Continuing, he voices, "Gasgut, why not give Hishy something to fight with - or maybe you Gunther. You humans sure are a hoarding lot. Also, for what's its worth, I don't like ANY of these plans. I have my own plan. Here's what I think. We can just go south to the coast. Moving west from there, we must arrive at the point where the Ambush delta's into the sea. Perhaps we could just build a boat or raft or something - just some way to travel a kilometer, maybe less, around to the other coast and move westward to Janger's camp from there. Kipton's basic plan is good. He just didn't know how we'd cross that damn river. Well, here's one way we could do it, perhaps. I mean, yeah, it could be dangerous. I'm not even sure how many of you can swim! Going back north to the trail is just asking for it. I agree with Kipton. But... Hagus has a point too. We could just wait them out. Gunther's idea of going back is intriguing. We're better armed now and, assuming they've set up searches and ambushes, that cave might be almost empty now. Of course, if I were TT, I'd have abandoned that hideout by now or at least rigged it with some nasty booby traps. I just think we've done our best and all we need to do is get Kipton to safety and maybe get word to the authorities in Jainus as to what Tok-Tog's been up to. Why take unnecessary chances?"

For the next three days, the party sets about building an improved campsite.

During the first two days, Hagus, Gasgut and Ziber do NOTHING but rest and recuperate. Lassiter (Using his Swamp Survival Talent) and Flit (Using his Woodcraft Talent) recruit Gunther and Hissshido in an overall construction project. Together, the four of them proceed to cut saplings, gather broad leaves, pack mud, etc. as they build thatch huts and make the camp more defensible. This would most likely be done poorly if not for the Talents of Flit and Lassiter - not to mention their ability to fly and thus better find materials to work with!

By the third day, Ziber joins in the work, having completely recovered from his wounds. The cat always seems to heal very quickly if given the opportunity! Hagus and Gasgut seem to have regained a portion of their lost strength as well during these 3 days. (G.M. NOTE: They gained back 1 pt of ST per day of rest...)

By sundown on the third day of encampment, the only damaged party member is Gunther. He is still bothered by a small wound. Rations are still available for 4.5 days. There are now three sturdy mud-packed thatch huts that can protect the entire party from the elements and they have sunken earth floors with firing slits too. Overall, the party could stay here for a long time...

As the group drifts off to sleep, Kipton ponders aloud; "I wonder what Tok-Tog is doing right now? I hope Janger is looking after his people. I'm so worried..."

It’s sometime after dark when, on Hisssido's watch, there are sounds of large things approaching. The lizard quickly alerts everyone by lightly slapping his tail against the thatch walls and hissing. Hanging upside down from a nearby tree limb, a groggy Lassiter telepathically says, "What's this? Who's got the lights?"

As the glowcubes come on, two towering figures step into the camp. Evidently another form of mobile plant-life menace, each is three meters tall. They have a 'head' shaped top that might be mistaken for that of a lizard at a distance but the species is basically a scaly bark covered thing with two large stalks that it uses to walk on. Each of these ambulatory stalks ends in a thorny claw-like pad. They even sport a tail-like root to balance themselves.

Kipton rolls over on his blanket and thrusts his musket through a firing slit in the same motion. Rubbing one eye with the back of his hand, he calls out, "Lizard bushes! They're looking for food - open fire!"

Hagus' HP rifle fires but the mutant misses the plant beast he had targeted!

Gasgut fires two arrows. On misses and one hits - the arrow that hits simply deflects off the creature’s hardened, bark-like hide.

Coming fully into the camp, one of the things comes upon Gasgut while the other moves to the hutch that houses Hagus. Their talon tipped 'foot roots' poke forward eagerly as they move up. Perhaps this is the means from which they draw nourishment. At any rate, they are undeterred by the party's meager resistance and it seems very much as though they are preparing to FEED!

Hagus tries to aim but decides, in the frenzy of battle, to shoot instead. Click, click... his HP rifle is out of ammo!

CRACK! BOOM! Lassiter fires at one of the things from his perch on a tree limb but the impact of the bullet is deflected by the thing's scaly bark! Simultaneously, Gunther fires the scattergun but misses altogether!

Hissshido's oil flask toss also misses. The flask hits a nearby tree instead, breaking and sending oil spattering everywhere!

Dropping his bow, the weakened Gasgut goes into melee with dagger and sword against the one that Hissshido had targeted. The plant's tough bark stops 20 points of damage. It takes 1 point of damage from Gasgut's attack! The towering plant uses its terrible 'toe claws' alternately in a viscous pawing/raking attack against Gasgut! Gasgut's leather armor stops 10 points of damage. Gasgut takes 26 points of damage!

The second one steps up to the hutch containing Hagus and wavy beams of red light emanate from its 'head' area. Hagus is just barely able to make use of the mud packed wall as cover and is not struck by the Radiation attack! That portion of the wall turns dark and scorched and begins smoldering as the tall plant turns its attention to Hissshido.

Lassiter flaps down from his perch to attack. Hovering at Point Blank range over Gasgut's opponent, he fires his HP bolt action rifle but misses badly and drops it - it goes off again when it hits the ground. Luckily no one is hit!

From inside his hutch, Kipton fires his musket at the large plant moving toward Hissshido. He chips it for 8 points of damage! While Hagus hurriedly reloads (Cursing profusely), Gunther steps out and pumps off two scattergun rounds at the same plant. He hits it twice for a total of 42 points of damage! The thing is Stunned!

Gasgut tries to throw his dagger in melee but its knocked out of his hand! He hits the thing with his sword for 21 points!

Coming to Gasgut's aid are Ziber and Hissshido! Ziber attacks with tooth and claw, tearing at the plant for 26 points of damage! Hissshido's thrashing tail slaps the thing and it goes rigid - its Stunned too!

With both plant monsters momentarily Stunned, Gasgut and Ziber are able to immediately dispatch them without mercy.

The battle is over just as suddenly as it began... and the remainder of the night passes peacefully as a new day dawns in the Gamma World.

Another day passes in the camp amidst the now familiar sounds of wild birds and insects so common in this region. Additionally, the sounds of woodchopping are heard throughout the day as, under Flit and Lassiter's guidance, the campsite is upgraded a bit. Several defensive firing positions are added, including one in a high tree for Flit and Lassiter. On the ground, two are constructed - simply log squares surrounding a 'fox hole' and further surrounded by sharp wooden stakes. As this work consumes the day, that is about all that happens.

Gasgut and Hagus spend the day in rest and recuperation - each of them benefits as a result!

As yet another morning arrives, the party's remaining food supply stands at 3.5 days.

Looking on with a bit of nervousness (As normal), Kipton reacts to Lassiter's thoughts. "I'm one of the 'humans' and I don't need anymore rest. I think we should all listen to what Gasgut says, too."

Stepping closer to the rugged human fighter, he says to him, "I'm OK with anything you have in mind. The bat... Lassiter, I mean... says what's in my heart, though - I'm also worried about Janger's village. If we were to vote, I would vote to move on now."

Looking up at Lassiter and then back to the others, Kipton (Somewhat sheepishly) takes a seat upon a newly cleared tree stump.

Leaving their temporary home behind, the party sets out for the old road – due west. As usual, the dense forested swamp makes for torturous travel. By nightfall, Lassiter flaps down with a scout report...

"I can see that road just up ahead. We can pick it up in the morning just fine. Also, I can make out that ruined city. Its about 15km to the south of us and the river runs right through it, just like they said! That's a big place. It looks like it was built during the time of the sorcerers to me!"

Making camp in the best spot available, the night passes without incident as a new day dawns.

Inspecting his one-shot pistol, Lassiter straps on the powder horn and stores the shot. He also fits a dagger and hatchet onto his harness, courtesy of Gasgut.

Responding to Hagus, he voices to everyone's minds, "Well, those cultists weren't really a war party as such but they were certainly armed. I had the impression that they were more 'pilgrims' than warriors. It’s hard to guess what they encountered. But I'll say this much - NONE of our options are to my liking. These 'catacombs' are an unknown and would seem to be haunted or otherwise occupied, at least. If we take Gunther's suggestion, we're still going to have to cross that bridge over the narrows...

Say... Flit, you have a real Talent for Woodworking. The river isn't moving that fast this far south. Maybe we could build a raft or some such thing and just cross it here. I mean, who says we HAVE to go underground? Judging by our map, if we cross here, our only known worry will be Skrawk's Colony. But I do like the idea of tracking along the coast. Avoiding any kind of ambush sure sounds good..."

It seems the river at this point is a fairly consistent 1km across with the current being rather strong towards the center. Its depth can't be gauged but the party estimates it to be about 6-8 meters at its deepest...

Flit hurriedly directs the construction of a smallish but sturdy raft with oars & rudder - a bit too hurriedly perhaps as the thing comes apart in the river! The various precautionary steps, prevent any catastrophe from occurring and the next raft is better constructed.

After two days of woodworking and struggle, the group manages to cross the mighty Ambush River and cut south to the coast. From there, the heroes engage in a weeklong hard march through coastal marsh - moving west again. After nearly 8 days of travel, the group, exhausted, hungry and worn out, is confronted with the blessed sight of a dabber patrol from Janger's village! Wearily, but happily, the party is lead back to the village and is greeted enthusiastically by Janger and Ploth. The tired adventurers are promptly given food, water and wine while Janger details some surprising recent events.

Janger, it seems, has been in communication with Illyki (Janger is one well-connected dabber!) and the two of them learned of the fight in the cavern from a secret observer who communicated the results. Shortly after the party left the area, a strike force of Jainus militia troops were dispatched by an 'anonymous tip' and were able to capture Tok-Tok and what remained of his gang AND secure the Yorkem Tortel. Its now safely in storage and deactivated. For political reasons it seems, the party's identity remains unknown to the authorities in Jainus and the Iron Society at large; however, Illyki is grateful and, interestingly, so is King Juba the Red. Juba extracted a heavy price from Sheriff Dagger to take Tok-Tog and company into his dungeon.

That night, in a festival atmosphere, Janger hosts a feast in the party's honor! It is during this event that the group is presented with 2,000 pieces of gold! "You've earned this", Janger says with gratitude, "along with our admiration and affection."

After the feast, Janger says, "Sleep well my friends, tomorrow, I have news regarding King Juba… news that will be of great interest to you."

(G.M. NOTE: There is no word of Aleax.)

Janger invites the party to join his dabber folk in their morning food preparation and meal. Afterward, as various anxious dabbertraders begin displaying their wares, he tells of something very interesting...

It seems that he had a visit from Sekland while the party was away. He relayed a story about his visit to King Juba the Red's island castle. Sekland wasn't able to buy his brother's freedom. Instead, King Juba offered to free him ONLY if Sekland and his men would undertake a mission for him - a mission that Sekland isn't confident he could complete.

Many years ago, King Juba the 1st (Red's great, great, great, great grandfather) found the lonely island castle and rebuilt it into the fortress that everyone knows today. He had, at that time, a very special tree that he planted in a walled courtyard - a VERY special tree. He had somehow uprooted it from the very heart of Ingree and transported it all this way as he searched for a suitable home. This tree has highly magical properties that it bestowed upon him and his seed. He and his descendents have enjoyed very good fortune, great wisdom and very long life as a result of being in its presence every day. Most believe it’s been the key to the family's long legacy. Of course, all know of the stories of Juba the 1st. He was a rare benevolent badder! He and his clan were actually known for their good will and generosity - at least, that is the legend. Over the generations, the kings have become more and more belligerent and antagonistic. Juba the Red is the worst of all. He buys prisoners from Jainus and other places to work as slaves. He hoards wealth and is a menace to the entire region. However, he now lives in fear so Sekland says.

His tree is dying. He doesn't know why but his royal sorcerer has divined that the cause of its wilting can be found where it once lived. He has told the king that if it is to be saved, the means lies hidden there.

Of course, deep Ingree is a strange and deadly realm, filled with old majicks, sorcery and wandering monsters created by wizards long dead. Juba is offering majickal transportation to the region his seer has envisioned if any are brave enough to undertake the quest. On top of that, he's desperate and willing to give over his ENTIRE treasure vault if his precious tree can be restored to health. His hoard is rumored to contain treasure worth over a quarter of a million gold pieces!

Sekland has since returned to the island to once again bargain for his brother's release. Janger feels the party is ready for THIS quest.

A dabber force is dispatched to Jainus in order to fulfill the party's trade needs as custom leather and armor work is completed in the village.

Meeting the returning trade party on the trail, the heroes are now equipped as desired - all trades having been completed (More or less...) as they turn north toward Juba Red's Island.

From Janger's camp, it’s roughly the same distance to Juba's castle as it is to Jainus. With an experienced and well-armed dabber escort, the trip is secure and relatively uneventful. Upon reaching the dark body of water, which surrounds the dread prison isle, the party comes upon a large military encampment. There are roughly 80 badders here - all regular soldiers in King Juba's army. This camp seems to have been set up for the purpose of receiving heroes that have come in answer to Juba's offer. Amidst the tents, battle flags and fire pits can be seen small groups from surrounding villages and towns - representatives that have come to join this camp. It is quickly learned that they are here to bear witness to the King's Pledge - a Royal Pledge never having been broken since the reign of Juba the 1st. Of the observers present, half it seems, would like to see Juba be the first to break a Pledge. Perhaps it would give them certain political or other advantages in the region with regard to commerce or tribal alliances. It’s not entirely clear. The other half is here out of concern - concern that the powerful king can no longer be trusted to keep his word at all - not even after the invoking of a Royal Pledge. The Pledge, of course, is all too familiar to the party - the king will surrender his treasury in return for the means to restore his sacred family tree to health.

From the banks of the ominous lake, the distant isle can be clearly seen. The darkened stone of the castle rises above the dense moss-draped tree line, along with other structures - obelisks, statues, etc. Its distance from the shore makes details difficult to ascertain and certainly reinforce the prison isle's reputation for security. If Tok-Tog is locked up there, he's not escaping easily - if EVER.

As the party arrived, a horn was sounded. Some time after the camp is entered; a small boat comes from around a tall rush of reeds. It contains two badder boatsmen, a dark robed and mysterious PSH and... Aleax! Joined by the plate-mailed captain of this large encampment, the dark-robed man speaks to the party in a low voice, devoid of emotion. "The King is ill and not holding audience," he says without feeling. He then essentially reiterates what Janger had described as the King's Quest - that His Majesty, King Juba The Red, offers the entirety of the royal treasury to those who would return from Ingree with the cause AND the cure for the dying Tree of Kings. The army captain growls, "This bunch looks less hardy than the last one." The robed man responds by saying, "Oh, yes, there have been two bands sent ahead of you. You are the third and last, as I fear the tree will have died before I can prepare more of these." As he says this, he hands Gasgut a sealed ornate scroll. "Read this to return here. We will be waiting. Do NOT read it before." Gasgut, of course, also hands him a written list of the party's various equipment demands, which the robed man reads with a cocked eyebrow. Looking over his shoulder, Aleax studies Gasgut's list with a muffled chuckle. Whispering into the man's ear, the black skinned elf points a slender finger at Gasgut. The man nods slightly and speaks. "You will pray thanks to your gods that we do not flay you alive here and now for the entertainment of our troops." Hearing this, the badder captain's eyes narrow and he half draws his scimitar from its white leather scabbard. The robed man continues, saying, "You come... 'recommended'. We'll see about that." He then whispers to the guard captain which results in the party being surrounded by a HOARD of musket and bow wielding badder infantry. Without the opportunity for debate, the heroes are forced to listen as their concerned dabber allies look on silently. The robed man repeats the King's Pledge for all present to hear. Then, waving his arms about with his head tilted back, he chants a high pitched rhythmic verse in an unknown tongue, all the while making with strange arm & hand motions. Soon the scene begins to fade to darkness - the last sound being that of Aleax's evil cackle...

A few seconds later, the party finds itself beside an overgrown ruin in a forest of very tall and old trees. This is definitely not the swamp that they are familiar with. No - this is an entirely different place! It has a strangely quiet feeling about it and an completely different array of wild flowers and other vegetation curl and blossom about the forest floor - not to mention the new and colorful insects and birds! From this old ruin, an overgrown stone path leads off into the woods.

Lassiter's eyes squint (as usual) while he turns his head this way and that, snout twitching all the while. "Two parties before us..." he says into everyone's minds. "I'm not sure if that's bad... or good. I know one thing for sure - we need to know what's around us."

The bat launches into the air, flapping about with his familiar 'echo' chirp heard as he flies through the tall trees.

After a brief time, he comes back, communicating; "This ruin is old. The forest here hides three other stone paths! Basically, I think they lead off north, south, east and west. There's a small river just beyond those trees there to the north. There's a large hill to the east and another to the west. Further east is hilly country and there appears to be a very large lake much further west. I can't see any signs of buildings, smoke or anything else from here. My eyes aren't too good, either though."

The bat then sits on a high point atop the cool stone of the forest ruins and begins scratching behind his ear.

Hagus detects that another group was here in the past few days and traveled west - down the more prominent stone path. There may have been a second group a few days before them, but their trail is just too cold to decipher.

Flit reports no sign of civilization in the immediate area, but it’s very hard to tell in this old growth forest terrain.

As Hagus goes about laying the traps, it seems as if Ziber and Hissshido can smell something in the air - Ziber, in particular looks like his hackles are up.

His small nose twitching rapidly, Lassiter doesn't seem to be sensing the same thing, though he tries.

Suddenly, the scene surrounding the ruins changes!

The trees are leafless and blackened by fire. Many are burnt to smoldering stumps. The entire area is a smoldering charred wasteland and foul smoke drifts through the entire area.

After a moment, the party realizes that these ruins have become the remains of Janger's village! This isn't Ingree - its the swamp again, and its been ruthlessly ravaged! From the smoke, old Ploth staggers forward and falls at Gasgut's feet. She is badly burned and one arm is charred to the bone. Wheezing, she cries, "WHY did you leave us? As soon as you abandoned us the Red Demon burned everything. Now look... look what is left. The Great One sees all and his reach is farrrrr... Come back. Come back now!"

Startled, the party can only watch in amazement - her cries echo as she and the blackened surroundings fade away. All the party sees now are the solemn tall oaks (green & healthy) and the stone path - as serene and beautiful as a few moments before!

Lassiter does indeed take to the air. Heeding Hissshido's warning, he stays high off the ground as he flaps through the upper reaches of the old oaks and pines. Looking down as he weaves, dives and circles about, his tiny 'sonar' squeak can be heard.

Coming back, after a few minutes, he reports, "Whatever it is you sense Hissshy, I can't find it. Why don't we take Hagus' suggestion, huh?"

Pepo stands by patiently as Hagus speaks and Hissshido moves through the group hissing in low tones. With a cocked eyebrow, he responds to Hagus, "No one is certain about what this disease could be, or what could have caused it. We... myself and our circle," he motions his free hand in a slight arc, "believe that some answers may be found near the grave of the first Tree's Keeper. There are none left, you see, and all the elves are sleeping again. The Old Shrine I speak of can still be found on the westernmost lake in this region that the elves called Selinar."

Clutching his gnarled cudgel, he takes a deep breath and says, "I offer this only to save the Tree. Perhaps it will help. I warn you again, though – this is a most dangerous undertaking. Your predecessors have failed. I know something of this land, Selinar, that you now pass through. Perhaps you would be better alone. Perhaps not." Stroking his white beard, he looks on silently.

Pepo responds, saying, "Red Menace, eh? That's likely Sulfar - he's already found you. That dragon didn't live these long years by being foolhardy. He serves the one who would prevent your quest. He'll use guile and trickery to confuse and intimidate you. And then he'll strike..."

Addressing the entire party he continues, "Generations ago, a limb was removed from the elves' Tree of Life by a traveling mutant. The legend is that he took it to a distant land where it grew into a new tree - a 'Tree of Kings' it is said. I know nothing more of it, but if it now suffers from a disease that is to be understood. The elves' Tree suffers as well and their fates are intertwined. Save the old clan's Tree and you save the transplanted one as well."

Frowning in thought, he adds, "It is difficult to explain to... 'outsiders'... how such a thing as the Tree came to be and what it means to the old ones - the elves. It sustains, it provides... the 'environment' in which their kind may dwell among us. I... I don't do well with this, do I? When its health has been restored... when you stand in its presence - then you will understand. You will see the truth of this journey and the goodness of your cause. It is good that such as you should come among us for this purpose. While those who dwell within Ingree's shelter are isolated from the outside world, we know of Mighty Kokron's return, the tale of the Great Tuft and the 'New City', now Jema Farb. A new age has arrived and the peoples of old deserve a place in it. Yes... yes - your arrival at this time is most proper. Shall we travel now? The others", looking around, "won't be coming with us. They must return to the Stones."

The cudgel clutching old man takes a half-step back, uncertain and confused. Preparing to answer Flit, he cuts short his speech as soon as Hagus levels the rifle on him. He also notices, with some interest, as Ziber creeps up to study him.

Pepo doesn't look as if he wishes to travel with this bunch any longer.

Frowning deeply, Pepo refuses to answer the questions posed to him at the point of a gun. His penetrating eyes shifting to & fro, he seems to have taken a dislike to the party.

Raising his cudgel, he turns to leave. So do the two men with him. Stepping silently off the stone path and into the tangled woods, he says forcefully, "We may yet aid you in your journey but you must find your own way now..."

A few moments later, the three are gone - just as they had appeared before, silently melting into the sylvan woods.

Hissshido and Ziber, it seems, no longer detect anymore of them nearby either.

Lassiter takes to the air. Flapping about, he prepares to retake the point position when he communicates psychically to all, "Never look a gift brutortz in the mouth. Isn't that how the saying goes?"

His nose twitches slightly as he wheels over and flies ahead.

Leaving the encounter scene behind, the party continues down the lonely stone path. Traveling for several hours, the heroes sight something above them more than once. High - HIGH - in the sky, flies a monstrously large red dragon. It seems to be covering the region in a wide circle and is difficult to track through the tall trees. Flit, of course, can keep an eye on him and reports that he occasionally dips behind the high hills before rising again later. As there is nothing the party can really do about this (Unless Flit wants to fly up and converse with it - Lassiter isn't volunteering), the journey continues in spite of the menacing presence.

Eventually, Lassiter flaps back to the group and communicates that there is fighting up ahead near the road!

Creeping forward, it is possible to observe what Lassiter has reported. Between the tree trunks and forest floor growth, six creatures can be seen - some of them large wolves and the others some kind of half-man & half-wolf. There's something about these beasts that is quite disturbing. It’s almost as if they project an aura of evil. In addition, it quickly becomes clear that the half-man beasts wear clothing similar to that of the Jainus townspeople. Somehow, these 'beasts' must be one of the groups questing for King Juba that preceded the party! They even carry adventuring gear such as packs, rope, weapons, etc.

At any rate, these monster beings are snarling and growling at a small group of tiny winged humanoids that they have trapped beneath a fine, weighted net. The tiny people are very small - less than a meter tall - and have delicate wings and small antenna protruding beneath silky light colored hair. They wear colorful shiny clothing and are trying to fight back with tiny swords. Basically, they can only poke at the monsters' toes and aren't having any success.

Flit zips up to a position directly over the netted sprites and Heroically pulls the net away, freeing the tiny people! They promptly take to the air, fluttering away in all directions!

As the surprised wolf beasts look on, two HP rifle shots go off! Ziber's narrowly misses while Hagus' hits one of the half-'men' and knocks him into a tree - he falls to the ground Stunned (But, otherwise does not appear seriously injured!).

As Ziber works the bolt action for a new round he seriously jams his rifle - so seriously that it will take at least 30 minutes to repair!

The 3 completely wolf-form creatures rise to their hind legs snapping ravenously at Flit who hovers out of their range. The two, remaining half-men snap their heads in the direction of the rifle shots, snarling. Immediately, they move for cover - one of them grabs something from a pouch that could be a grenade...

Two of the wolf-forms notice Gasgut and Hissshido as they snap at the elusive hummingbird and take off at full speed directly at them! DAMN, these things look wicked!

Hissshido and Ziber fire almost simultaneously at one of the large bounding wolves but BOTH missed the fast running beast! Invisible and hovering overhead, Lassiter discharges a flintlock at one and hits, staggering the thing in mid-stride! A half second later and Gasgut's musket shot hits the same one at Point Blank range - its stopped dead in its tracks and falls back Stunned! The second one runs through the barrage and leaps at Gasgut, its jaws snapping! Dropping the musket, Gasgut deftly tosses an auto pistol towards Ziber and draws his sword - all the while deflecting the wolf's viscous attack with the enchanted shield! A great move!

From his position in the tree, Hagus fires again but only hits the tree that his elusive target is using for cover - a chunk o' tree blows off as the beast ducks! Near the same one, Flit barks an ear splitting Sonic Blast that caused the creature to flinch and lower its ears but its otherwise unaffected. As the remaining wolf-form creature continues jumping and snapping at Flit, the wolf-man behind the tree hurls his grenade at the party. BLAM!

Except for Flit, the entire party is caught in the resulting blast (Including the two wolf creatures that had run forward). Ziber's ringmail stops 20 points but he still takes 12 points of damage and is slammed! Ziber is thrown 4 meters and is stunned and suffers Delirium! What becomes of Lassiter is not known although a small furry bat leg sails through the air in a bloody arc!

Gasgut's armor & shield prevent all damage but the mighty warrior is knocked to the ground and Stunned! Hissshido's armor protects him well but the battling lizard still takes 4 points of damage, is knocked back and Stunned and suffers Delirium! Hagus and Gunther's cover prevents blast and shrapnel damage but both are stunned!

The Stunned wolf is blown into a tree, stunning it further - the active one (On Gasgut) is likewise blown sideways and Stunned!

Through the smoke and falling leaves, the two man-wolves emerge from their cover and begin a trot toward the incapacitated party, ignoring the chirping hummingbird overhead. The fallen man-wolf near them remains Stunned for the time being (i.e. the one Hagus hit with his first shot). The last remaining beast - the wolf-form snapping and growling at Flit – remains focused on the flitting bird.

Flit fires three auto pistol rounds at the yapping wolf directly below him at Point Blank range! The thing is hit three times and is blown back Stunned! Near him, the half-wolf that Hagus originally hit rises to his feet and readies a lasso to use on Flit!

Heroically recovering from the blast effects, Gasgut flings his shield to the scrambling Ziber and together, they find the Stunned wolves and quickly end their evil existence!

Simultaneously, Hagus fires another rifle round and knocks back one of the two approaching - it falls back Stunned! The second one, though, jogs forward and catches Gasgut just as he kills the fallen wolf. The half-man bites at Gasgut, in hand to hand combat, but the veteran human avoids the gnashing fangs!

Hagus' shot misses Flit's foe but the agile hummingbird hits the monster below him twice before accidentally DROPPING his autopistol! The lasso swinging wolf-man is blown backward, Stunned!

As Ziber crushed the throat of another one with the edge of the enchanted shield, Gunther shoots an autopistol shot into the melee between Gasgut and his foe - it hits a tree near Gasgut's shoulder!

Gasgut fires two revolver rounds in the air as the thing deflects his arm upward in the brawl! Neither of them damages the other in melee (Gasgut's armor is saving the day!)

Gasgut continues his desperate fight as the remaining two survivors lie Stunned on the ground beneath Flit.

As Hagus climbs down the tree, the sprinting Ziber destroys yet another of the evil beasts that lie Stunned from gunfire.

Meanwhile, Gasgut and his foe are locked in a ferocious battle. Again, the thing knocks Gasgut's pistol aside as he fires two more shots! Gasgut slashes it for 28 points of damage with his enchanted sword and it roars in pain! Fighting back, it bites Gasgut's forearm for 24 points. Gasgut's armor stops 20 points but he still takes 4 points of bite damage and blood IS drawn...

The second Stunned one below Flit (The only other one alive) rolls its eyes as it remains incapacitated momentarily.

Locked in melee, Gasgut successfully hits his opponent with a Point Blank shot as he empties his revolver! Following the reeling monster, he plunges his sword into its heart - at the same time Ziber enthusiastically destroys the last one, in the same gruesome animalistic fashion.

Less than a minute after it started the battle is over. As the surprised party members look on, the wolfen forms magically begin to transform to their old bodies. The long dark wolf furs begin snaking back into the pours of their flesh as their teeth and claws, too, slowly retract. This 'morphing' process lasts for nearly two minutes as the group looks on with amazement and then pity upon sighting the bloodied bodies of the former mutant adventurers - all but one with dark bruised crushed throats. As the bodies are mostly naked, there is little salvage although a couple do have sacks, packs and a bit of weapons and gear. It appears Hagus is already beginning the search process...

Meanwhile the tiny sprite beings return to the scene, excitedly thanking the party for their rescue. As they are all chattering in unison, their high pitched voices mingle in a largely incomprehensible chorus of animated banter and laughter.

They fall silent, however, as the forest suddenly darkens. The sun is blocked as the HUGE form of a red dragon passes just over the treetops. Its mighty wings buffet the tall branches as if by a great wind and its hot breath can be felt even on the forest floor as it passes. For a brief moment, the party can see one great dragon eye look down upon them but only for a brief moment - then its gone.

Gulping, the now silent sprites slowly turn toward Gasgut. Huddled together, they whisper amongst themselves and then look at the brave fighter with grave expressions.

As Hissshido comes back to his senses, Hagus searches the bodies and the surrounding area. He locates a few weapons and gear on the bodies and also seems to find something on the forest floor near the stone path...

The sprite with the vest takes to the air and flutters about, weaving through the party. Hovering in the midst of the group, he asks, "Why are you here? The bald one has mentioned Pepo to me as well as the shrine of the old Keeper. Why would you travel there? He mentioned the sleeping elves. How would you know of such things? Is it your purpose to awaken the clan? WHY would you do this?"

The sprites heartily thank the party for freeing them but just don't have the additional information Gunther is seeking. In fact, they largely take to laughing and flying about in the treetops while the party goes about its business. The one thing that several of them DO mention, however, is that he can most likely be found down the south road this season.

Traveling on, the party uses the remainder of the day moving down the sylvan stone path. Its finally decided to stop and make camp near a fork in the road. Flit reports that he can see each direction leading to a body of water. The western path - the one the party was on, leads to a large lake (This was sighted before) but the new southern path also leads to a lake (But its much smaller).

Throughout the night, distant howls (As if from wolves) can be heard echoing through the forest. Morning arrives without incident.

Traveling all day, the party finally arrives at the shore of a beautiful lake - just as Flit had described. The setting is remarkably tranquil and serene - the lake's waters clear and still.

The idyllic picture transfixes the group momentarily as the setting sun's rays cast a orange-red shimmer across the waters - that is, until everyone sights something coming around a bend, about 5 km away. It’s a ship!

Using his scope to sight with, Hagus reports that it is an oared galley with black sails. It appears to be crewed by roughly 60 humanoids, most of whom wear Tech II armor. In addition, they are evidently lead by a fearsome looking being almost 3 meters tall, wearing dark plate-mail armor. The ship is steering for a stone formation jutting out from the shore. Sighting this as well, Hagus identifies it as roughly a pile of stone atop which rests some kind of small stone edifice or altar - this is most likely the 'shrine' that Pepo spoke of.

Lastly, lost in the searing light of the sun - HIGH overhead -the dragon lazily circles.

As the party watches from a concealed position, the ship draws near to the shore before weighing anchor and rolling up the sails. As the sun sets, these humanoids begin ferrying troops and supplies to the shore. Setting up tents, raising a command staff banner, chopping wood, etc., it looks like they're setting up a long-term encampment. After all but about 20 of them depart, and the last of their barrels, sacks, etc. are taken ashore, the ship raises anchor, unfurls its sails and begins to turn and sail away - lanterns are systematically lit about its deck as it starts to move again

Almost as soon as the ship raises anchor, the party sees that a band of these humanoids is moving toward the road that the party is near. There are about 10 of them - armed with bows, spears, and other assorted items. They don't see the group, they're simply making their way in the party's direction for some reason.

As the party watches and waits, the humanoid band finally passes by. Since it was a 5-km walk from where they disembarked, they arrive after sunset and so its quite difficult to make out their features to any great extent.

They are not tall - WELL under two meters - and have brutish, almost swine-like facial features. They wear leather armor and carry bows, swords and wooden shields. They appear to have the gear to make a camp of their own out here and something else - these beings smell. They smell BAD.

Flit suddenly takes off into the sky, headed directly for the dragon high overhead.

Flit becomes a very small dot as he rises ever higher to encounter the giant flying monster.

As the two draw near to each other, the red beast suddenly emits a large fiery blast of fire from its mouth toward Flit! The mutated hummingbird heroically dives from its path and drops straight down - fleeing!

The thing pursues him and the two of them descend very rapidly as the party takes cover! Just as the nose-diving Flit reaches the treetops, however, the monstrous dragon arcs back upward. Beating its huge wings, it again climbs high into the sky - just as before.

Those who are still eyeing the dragon notice that he suddenly disappears - he simply vanishes in thin air!

Within about a minute of this surprising event, a loud horn can be heard blowing from the area of the shrine encampment - arooooooooooo... aaarroooooo.

The forest remains relatively quiet as 30 minutes or so passes. Based on everyone's best scouting, sighting and other covert observations, it appears that nothing special is going on at the fortified shrine site nor is the advance party on the road doing anything in particular. The dragon remains unseen.

Coming around, the bound orcish raider's eyes dart to and fro as he scans the heavily armed party surrounding him.

"We wait for YOU." The orc says proudly. "Sulphar, him say you should be deaded at first sight. Be strangers up to no good - have treasure lots!" Shutting up quickly, his eyes squint as he carefully studies the party members' gear, weapons and other belongings. "Big boat go back to other side of lake. You wanna go there too, huh? I take you to Pognash. Him give you ride okay - all the way to bottom of lake!" His eyes flashing, he says, "But not before we take all your good STUFF! HA, HA, HA, HA, HA!" His head tilts back as he barks out a laugh.

The prisoner scowls and spits at Hissshido, blurting out, "Sulphar be LAST of his kind! Him afraid of, like, teknoalgy. All the others were hunted down by flying ships from far away. Him SMART, yes! Soon you be one fried lizard! Ha! HA!"

The day passes as the party awaits the return of Hagus. Ziber quickly gags the uninformative prisoner and leaves him bound to a tree. Gasgut reports that the advance party (The group nearby on the road) seems aware that one of theirs has turned up missing. They have taken up a much more defensive posture and they don't stray far from their fixed position now. It also doesn't appear they're searching for him at this time...

Right around sunset, Hagus reappears with the following report: The orcish camp blocks the small neck of land on which the shrine sits. There are a few, small groups of 3 patrolling the perimeter area but Hagus was able to slip through them. Additionally, they've built up a low earthen perimeter as a barrier and they've dug pits with wooden stakes in front of the 'wall'.

There is a path in the middle of the fortifications that allows egress for the orc patrols and foragers but it is a narrow little worn trail. None of them appear to be armed with Tech III weapons.

Their leader is definitely of another species. The very tall and large humanoid has a sort of dead yellow flesh with blackish blue hair and dull dark eyes. It carries a pole arm in addition a wicked looking flail. Its plate armor looks well seasoned. There is another of them that looks like some kind of shaman, perhaps. However, the most important news is that Hagus could see further down the lake from his vantagepoint. That ship is coming back and it should be arriving in an hour or so by his reckoning. It is packed with many more orcs - at least a hundred, he'd guess. Lastly, he reports that he hasn't seen the dragon since this morning, either.

Just as Ziber finishes, it sounds as if the leaves begin to softly rustle about the party. The rustling becomes a chorus of soft whisper-like voices that breathe, "They have not followed our warnings. They will abandon their old friends to the red demon. Only the Great One that sees all can help them now. One of them knows... if only they could get PAST the red demon's fire in the night... look, behold - here again they will flee, like the Feadiels before them..." The voices seem to pause, almost as if actually awaiting a response.

As the party debates Hagus' ideas, the forest begins to darken as the sun sinks lower & lower.

Leaving the area, the party travels all night. Near morning, Ziber appears from the brush to report that the fork in the road is just up ahead and he doesn't smell any orcs about.

Much better rested, the party sets out again - sometime after mid-day. Traveling the remainder of the afternoon, the group decides to stop w/o having encountered the description from Hagus' 'vision'.

From all signs, and Flit's aerial reports, it doesn't appear that the orcs have sent a group to follow. Since Hagus favors traveling at night, that option is put forth as the sun sets. However, before it can be decided, a wolf's howl can be heard in the rapidly darkening forest - a sudden reminder of the mysteries lurking in this strange realm...

Looking about while clutching weapons, the party's' ears are assailed by the sounds of others answering its call. These are much closer though, and surrounding the group from all directions. Already, snarling and growling sounds are approaching, tightening the invisible links of a wild and lethal 'net' - and this time, it sounds like there are many MORE of them.

Exploding from the near darkness of the trees, come many very large wolves - from all directions! Its difficult to count as they're everywhere, close and coming fast - but there are about twenty (20)!

In addition, two of the wolfmen (partially clothed) accompany them at a brisk trot. One has a very fine two-handed sword that can be seen glowing slightly in the rapidly approaching darkness.

Flit takes upward flight as Hissshido's natural Blinding Flash discharges! All of the wolves howl and yip with pain (All except the two humanoids, anyway). Each of the four-legged wolves suffers 3 points of damage and two-thirds of them are temporarily blinded! The two wolfmen turn away in time and are unaffected.

The sound of gunfire erupts as Gasgut, Hagus and Hissshido open up. Both of Hagus' shots miss but Gasgut hits a large wolf with one of his for 13 points of damage! It's blown sideways and falls to the ground wounded and stunned!

Hissshido stumbles and misses badly, in fact suffering a nasty recoil accident in the process. Hissshido is stunned!

Of the large wolves that aren't blinded, one of them leaps at Gasgut, biting for 27 points of damage! Gasgut's armor stops 20 points. Gasgut suffers 7 points of damage and the large & heavy wolf has locked its jaws on the human's arm!

A second one locks its jaws on the throat of the Stunned Hissshido, Stunning the hapless lizard battler even further and inflicting 45 points of damage! Hissshido's armor stops 20 points of damage but he still takes 25 points and the thrashing wolf pulls his Stunned form to the ground! Simultaneously, the empty handed wolf man moves quickly to Hissshido's position. As he does so, he deftly retrieves a small bottle from a pocket in his tattered breaches, uncorks it and quickly swallows it contents!

Three of the large wolves find Gunther, almost at the same time. He uses his large shield to fend one off but the other two bite savagely! Gunther's armor stops 10 points but he still suffers 62 points of damage and is pulled to the ground! One of them has its jaws locked on his right arm - the other one is locked on his left arm, near the shoulder. Gunther's in almost as much trouble as Hissshido!

The wolf-man with the sword attacks Hagus but his enchanted shield deflects the slashing two hander! Hagus is undamaged!

One of the Blinded wolves is coming around and will be able to attack next round along with the others. The remainder are still suffering from the Blindness - rolling on the ground and pawing at their eyes.

By Hagus' Heroic rally, the party gains the Initiative!

With Surprise, Ziber strikes the sword-wielding monster to subdue. It’s a perfect blow and the thing's knees buckle as its eyes roll about. Blam! Blam! Hagus hits it twice with auto pistol rounds as he steps up to Point Blank range! Spinning, it's thrown back 5 meters - falling into a tree and dropping its sword. Its Stunned!

Heroically, Hissshido throws off the effect of the Stun! Pulling up the scattergun, he touches it to the wolf's large side and pulls the trigger. The thing's innards are sent flying as the blast goes through its body for 40 points! It's dead!

From above, Flit flings his net at the upright wolfman moving on Hissshido. It's a bad throw - it flies uselessly over its head. Nearing Hisssido, the thing crouches and its belly expands. With a horrendous belch, it breathes a gout of flame from its mouth at Hissshido! Hissshido is struck for 27 points - his armor stops 20 but the lizard takes 7 and he is Ignited!

Gasgut Heroically throws the huge wolf from his arm and strikes the reeling animal for 22 points with his sword. Taking another step forward, he shoots it with an auto-pistol round as well, finishing it off!

Fighting in (evidently) a near panic, Gunther heroically frees himself from the jaws of the two wolves on him. Blazing away with the auto-pistol, he fires 3 shots at one of them, striking it for over 90 points of damage - completely blowing it away! In the excitement, he grazes his own foot badly and actually suffers 2 points of damage! Like lightening, he switches targets to the other one but this time he drives the barrel of the pistol into the ground before pulling the trigger - its a destructive misfire! Gunther takes 5 points of damage and his right arm is numbed useless!

The wounded wolf still lies Stunned while virtually all of the others remain Blinded. The one that Gunther had intended to dispatch resumes its mauling attack, joined by two (2) others (One of which just recovered from Blindness)! Gunther is bitten by the savage snapping jaws of the beasts for 27 points BUT none of them gets another jaw lock on him! Gunther is seriously wounded!

This time, it's the nasties with the Initiative!

The wolf previously wounded by Gasgut rises to its feet and skulks off into the woods as most of the others still struggle with Blindness.

The wolfman still standing turns and breathes fire on Ziber! The cat's armor prevents all damage but Ziber is ignited!

Moving to aid Gunther, the flames on Hissshido's clothing, armor, etc. grow. The flaming lizard suffers 27 points of Burn damage!

On his back with one bad arm, Gunther desperately tries to parry the snapping saliva slinging jaws in his face! The first one clamps its jaws on Gunther's leg with a savage biting attack. His armor prevents 10 points but Gunther still suffers 26 points of damage! Gunther parries the moves of the second one but the third bites for 9 points of damage! Gunther is now Very seriously wounded!

Hagus steps up and empties his clip into one of Gunther's foes, blowing it away with 3 rounds! Gasgut's shot hits another one - knocking it back and to the ground Stunned with 13 points of damage! Hissshido blows the third one off with a scattergun hit for 20 points. It's sent reeling and lies Stunned!

Fluttering about 7 meters overhead, Flit fires three autopistol shots at one of the blinded wolves! He manages to hit it with one of the shots - it falls Stunned from 12 points of damage! Flit drops his autopistol in the process!

Two more wolves recover from Blindness to join the fray as the wolfman makes quickly for Flit's dropped weapon.

Again, the very fast and ferocious wolves have all the Initiative!

Snatching up Flit's auto-pistol, the grinning wolfman pivots in a crouch and gouts another arc of burning flame in the direction of Gunther, Hissshido, Hagus & Gasgut! Moving forward to attack, Gasgut Heroically ducks at just the right instant - in a quick roll that brings him back to his feet! Recovering, Gasgut takes a few steps forward and fires from one barrel just after Flit successfully Teleports his pistol back to his hand! The wolfman is Staggered and Stunned by the scattergun blast!

The flames strike Hissshido, further intensifying the flames about his person. Hissshido suffer 27 points of Burn damage, suffers System Shock and collapses - an invalid! Hissshido is Immolated and will be consumed by flames next round!!

Ziber Heroically rolls to & fro in the dirt to put out the flames on his furry body - but not before suffering 18 points of Burn damage!

Gunther Heroically regains the use of his arm (And the rest of his bloodied body for that matter...) and scampers to use his saber on the two badly wounded & Stunned wolves that lie nearby. That's two more dead ones!

Coming forward to attack the two newly active wolves, Hagus is confronted with them attacking HIM almost before he can react! Hagus suffers 3 points of damage from one bite but is not immobilized by locked jaws! Hagus' shortsword usage proves futile in the melee.

Five (5) more of the snarling and snapping dire wolves can now see. Only three more remain blinded. It doesn't look like they are letting up at all although several seem a bit apprehensive as they regain their vision and see how many of their pack lie dead.

With Heroic momentum, Ziber leads the party to win the Initiative this round!

Dropping into position, he strikes an oncoming beast for 54 points of damage - cleanly slicing off its head!

Stepping forward, Gasgut thrusts his enchanted sword into the heart of the Staggered wolfman, killing him!

Fluttering low, Flit fires at Point Blank range but misses badly and drops his pistol AGAIN!

Meanwhile, Gunther Heroically moves up and VERY QUICKLY scoops a large amount of dirt and sand over Hissshido, putting out the flames in time to save the mutant lizard's life! (G.M. NOTE: This was the ONLY move that would have saved Hissshido...)

Hagus, again, can't find the mark with his sword but it hardly matters - as the remaining animals seem to lose the stomach for more fighting. Snapping and growling, they pause for a few seconds before turning to flee into the darkness of the woods.

With smoke still curling from Hissshido's unmoving bulk, Gunther greedily quaffs one of the majicked healing potions from Jainus. As the others set about keeping watch for another attack, Ziber soon falls unconscious from exhaustion.

A quick search of the two wolf-men reveals nothing - and they too (Like the others before) begin reverting to mutated human status in a most unnerving supernatural manner. Also in near miraculous fashion, Gunther is healed of ALL damage by the potion's action! With howls still echoing throughout the woods, the party decides not to wait and hoists the near comatose Hissshido across the shoulders of Gasgut and the soon recovered Ziber. Together, the group moves some distance away from the scene of the carnage. After a brief walk, the group finally halts along the muddy bank of a gurgling rivulet sniffed out by the cat warrior. It's going to be a long night...

It is a mostly sleepless night as howls and calls wail throughout the darkened forestland. Often, those on watch are alerted by sounds of movement but whatever is making the noise never makes itself seen.

Morning dawns with great relief to the weary adventuring band - and the wild sounds die off as it does so. Rising to meet another day in this fantasy (And most decidedly hostile & dangerous) realm, the group is alerted by the sound of something approaching through the trees and underbrush. Its difficult to make out what it is but it approaches directly and is displacing a great amount of brush, branches, etc, as it moves.

It is large... very large.

Gunther does his best but Hissshido's burned cloak basically falls apart as he tries to spread it out. As it does so, Gunther notices that a few other items on Hissshido's person have been destroyed by fire as well...

Emerging from the trees is... a tree! No ordinary tree to be sure, however - this tall old oak has a large human-like face in the center of its trunk, complete with greenish moss that tends to look like eyebrows and a long beard. Its two primary branches end in large more or less flexible 'fingers' and the bottom of its wide gnarled trunk splits to form two large shuffling 'legs'.

What's most interesting is that is carries a dead orc in each of its long fingered 'hands'. Each one appears to have suffered a massive head injury and it would be natural to conclude that this creature inflicted said damage!

Since Flit is 'flitting' around and through its upper branches as it moves, it is aware of the party - more or less - and certainly seems to have been headed for it at any rate.

Coming to a stop near where everyone is hiding, it shakes its leafy 'head' and drops the orcs on the ground. With VERY slow movements of its 'mouth', it says, "Come out from hiding. I have come to help you…"

"Hagus... your band must travel far." The large wooden being shudders somewhat and pauses - slowly closing and then slowly opening its large wooden 'eyes'. In fact, it does this VERY slowly. Continuing, it says, "You seek to heal the Tree of Life. The illness comes from its deepest roots. These roots do not exist in this dimension. You must seek their true origin to find the disease and cure it." Stopping, the towering oak being slowly smacks his wooden 'lips' and just sort of stands there. A light breeze ruffles its upper leaves a bit as it does so...

Thinking it finished, several of the party members begin to speak when it suddenly starts up again. "Ahead on this road is the Dark Watcher's cave. Inside lies a passage to the other world. It is expecting you. There is another way to the secret elvan land. You can use the rainbow. It is a dangerous journey to its source from here. You must choose one of these ways."

The old tree must hear slow too as he takes a LONG time to reply. Finally, he says, "The Dark Watcher's cave is near. You can reach it today. He has never been seen. Not since his Master placed him there. This morning, Sulphar already hides over the cave - waiting to prevent any retreat. They work together."

Again, the tall oak slowly closed its large 'eyes' and just sort of pauses for awhile - for a long while. Ziber actually falls asleep and then the thing slowly cranks up again...

"The way of the Dark Watcher is most direct. It leads to the Tower of Light. If the Watcher could be defeated, his treasures may hold a useful weapon or two. The way to the waterfall where the rainbow will appear is three days march to the north. I can take you there but patrols and ambushes will be everywhere. It worsens with each hour. If you choose to seek the source of the rainbow, you must HURRY. It appears at this place only once every hundred years or so. Time is fading away now - along with all hope. It was prophesied long ago that outsiders would come to save the Elvan Tree. For this to be, you must hurry. I fear it may already be to late."

With that, the huge oak reaches a 'hand' down and picks up Hisssshido. Slowly raising the wounded Master of Swamp Zen, he brings him close to one large eye in order to more closely examining him.

Still holding Hissshido in his wide & flat oak 'palm', the Old King looks down upon the raised face of Hagus. "No and no..."

The tall oak's 'eyes' slowly close and then open again.

"Sulphar will avoid battle unless certain of victory. He will continue to wait until its certain…"

Still holding Hissshido, the friendly treant answers Hagus, saying, Only time brings regrowth after fire."

Finally rising, it appears that Hagus' self-healing mutation has indeed restored him to 100% health. Hissshido, too, appears good as new (Although his armor, gear, etc. will never be the same...)!

The tall oak pays Flit no mind and makes a very slow sound - something between a grunt and a sigh (Its hard to tell) before closing its 'eyes' and... sleeping?

The day passes as the various party members set up watches and alternate getting some additional rest.

Hagus quickly finds it impossible to salvage the burned garment that Hissshido once sported and is forced to bury it.

The remainder of the day (And night) is spent checking & rechecking equipment, cleaning up and telling stories of each other's past. Afterall, the group has only known each other for a few weeks and most of that time has been spent in harrowing situations. Since the 'morrow may be the last day for one or more of the adventuring band, the stories are a pleasant distraction and everyone gets their turn.

During this additional day, Gasgut and Ziber do nothing but rest - their armor and weapons put aside for the time being. Except for Ziber's occasional (And habitual) self-grooming, the two of them take much additional sleep as Flit hops about them administering continual First Aid.

(G.M. NOTE: By the next morning, both Gasgut AND Ziber are completely recovered - although Ziber's recovery was additionally aided by the self-healing mutation of his kind, the Kzin.)

Setting out, the group leaves the Old King behind - with a very slow shrug, it turns and begins plodding back up the road in the direction the party came from. BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... BOOM... its giant root 'feet' thunder upon the stone road path. After traveling about 50 meters, it evidently feels a more direct path would be 'off road' and thus turns and plunges directly into the forest, almost immediately disappearing from view as it moves away.

It doesn't take long for the party to discover the object of their trek this day. Looming ahead, is a wide and rather high hill. It is spotted above the tree line about 10 kilometers away. As the party moves toward it, Flit is able to get an airborne view and report his findings; the road, it seems, leads directly up the hill and to the opening of a prominent cave. However, this is on the opposite side of the hill. That side is quite rocky and steep - the road being practically the only means of egress. In fact, it appears that the road was once part of some kind of grand entrance promenade; however, much of this now lies in ruin. While the road itself is still serviceable, buttresses, columns, arches and the like lie toppled along the approach and at the bottom of the sheer cliff-like hillside. In addition, the forest area within about half a kilometer of the hillside road has been burned in a fire. All tree cover in the area has simply been burned away. Approaching undetected will be quite impossible.

Finding a secure place (As much as possible anyhow...), Hagus directs the group to hole up as the sun sets and the night passes.

Feeling that dawn approaches, Hagus makes it known that now is the time.

Moving up the stone road, the party passes over & through ruined arches and columns as it progresses toward the cave. As it turns out, ropes are not needed as there is enough of the road intact to allow foot traffic all the way up to the cave mouth.

After almost an hour of careful movement, it appears that both Hissshido and Ziber can smell the dragon nearby. Being very near the mouth of the cave, the party continues until Hagus discovers that part of the road is actually an illusion! Had he not been so diligent, the first in line would have stepped off the cliff and fallen to his death! Using his stick to gauge the stone path's true dimensions, he is able to guide those who follow around the phantom portion of the platform and on toward the cave just ahead. As he does so, there is a sound from above like a deep exhalation of breath and a few rocks slide down the hillside. Nothing major, but it is as if a large body of some kind shifted its weight and sent a bit of gravel falling...

Finally reaching the opening, the lead heroes peer inside but see only darkness at first. Moments later, as lights are brought to bear, the interior dimensions become more clear. This is not a particularly large natural chamber. Scattered about on the floor are many bones and bits of fur - as if many animals have been consumed herein. Further within (About 20 meters from the opening) is a large rough hewn stone 'throne'. There is no other object of furniture of any kind. Sitting upon this stone seat is a larger than man-sized humanoid with one central eye. The figure is reclining and wearing scale-mail armor and a deep purple cape. This character is quite large and would effectively be a giant standing at full height. Its odd that such a being would be, basically, lounging in this fashion - or for that matter 'living here'. There's nothing here but the large stone chair and something else...

Behind the throne (And largely blocked from view by it) is a passage filled with a dimly glowing mist. As the being spots Hagus and light begins to illuminate the cave, it shifts to rest its large chin atop one of its fists - doing nothing but casually observing the party for the moment.

A bit more gravel rolls down the steep cliff-side as the party begins switching weapons, talking plans, etc.. This is followed immediately by the now all too familiar sound of the rush of wind produced by Sulphar's beating wings. The great dragon being invisible, it is virtually impossible to tell exactly where he is but the beast is obviously flying about - closely overhead...

About the same time, the Cyclops sees Hagus kneel and aim. This gets its attention and it rises.

CRACK! Hagus fires a HP rifle round into the Cyclops's torso. The bullet passes straight through and strikes the cave wall behind it with a sparking, rock-chipping ricochet. It's as if the large humanoid wasn't really there!

Gasgut kneels slightly to let down his musket as he readies a grenade (You have to pull the pin to ready it...) in one hand and a bag of dirt in the other, while Gunther also readies a bag of dirt.

Outside the cave, the dragon's huge wings can be heard beating. It is obviously very close to the cave entrance and is in a tight overhead circle - even perhaps hovering occasionally.

As the party sees the bullet pass through the 'image' of the Cyclops, it takes a step forward with palms out and speaks. "That's a fine introduction. Now, if you would be so kind... what can I do for you?"

With a slight & confused smile, the peaceful being responds, "Was it the Red Demon that said these things? That foul creature should be hunted down and destroyed. You know he fears outsiders such as yourselves - hunters with the oldest majiks of men. What DO you hunt here? You wish to return home... are you lost?"

His one giant eye squinting a bit, the Cyclops apparently isn't too satisfied with Hagus' dialogue. Coming forward, he passes him and (Ignoring Ziber) peeks outside into the morning sun. Looking down the stone path, he waves Flit & Hissshido forward. "I thought I heard more of you. You might as well come in and join us..." The large single-eyed warrior suddenly stops - taking a slightly crouched stance.

"Wait a minute. Wait just a minute! I hear that Demon... he's here!" Turning back inside, he says in a low voice as he bends down, "With your help, I might just be able to rid us all of this problem once and for all. In exchange, I'll assist you with the passage you seek..."

Blinking his large central eye, the Cyclops motions everyone to come up close. Speaking in a barely audible tone, he whispers, "That Dragon has VERY good hearing. Gather round and I'll tell you my plan."

Becoming very irritated with the party - being ignored by all of them less than a minute or after being fired upon - the Cyclops moves toward Hissshido, saying, "DON'T try to talk to tha..."

He's suddenly interrupted by Flit who flies into the cave and hovers about his large head. The hummingbird, too, shows little respect for the giant humanoid's lair, but rather looks about excitedly to see what he can.

Swiveling, he tries to follow the rapid movement of the mutant bird with his one eye. Obviously angry, he turns and steps up directly behind Hissshido. Shouting over his head at the invisible dragon, he bellows, "Don't let my little piggies ESCAPE!"

Immediately upon shouting this command, the Cyclops image fades away. Where the being's head was, is now a hideous floating orb-shaped monster! It also has one large eye that corresponds exactly to the location of the 'Cyclops's' eye. In addition, ten snake-like swiveling eyestalks are located about the top half of its spherical body. Under its large central eye, is a wide and toothy maw surrounded by black leathery 'lips'. Its hide appears to be some kind of thick, chitenous material. The creature is about 2 meters in diameter and gives the impression of great weight somehow majickly levitated.

As this foul creature makes itself known, it floats back toward the center of the cave, spitting, "Your 'quest' just came to an END!"

His wings buzzing loudly, Flit goes for his piece!

Outside, it sounds as if the dragon says something but only Hissshido is in position to hear it.

With Evil Heroics the Eye Tyrant moves to take the Initiative but Gasgut Heroically gets the drop on him (And thus, so does the party) and fires both barrels! The thing is grazed for 41 points but its super armor plated hide stops 35 points. It suffers 6 points of damage and doesn't even seem to notice - this thing is TOUGH! - as the damage barely amounts to a scratch.

Flit fires 3 auto pistol rounds from his hovering position - missing with all 3 rounds!

Hissshido fires a scattergun blast upward at the floating beast but also MISSES!

Ziber swings his mighty sword and narrowly misses the agile monster!

The party shuts its eyes as Hissshido comes with a Blinding Flash! As the party recovers from the searing light blasting through their closed eyelids, it's obvious that the creature has suffered greatly but is not COMPLETELY incapacitated. The large central eye and about half of the eyestalks (Those on the side facing Hissshido) indeed appear Blinded as they blink and roll about. However, 5 eyestalks (On the opposite side of the large orb) that were faced the opposite direction remain functional, although they too blink a bit. One of these eyes swivels down toward Gasgut. Widening, it locks gazes with him as the hideous iris forms shifting hypnotic patterns. Gasgut is momentarily charmed but Heroically resists it! Rotating about 180 degrees a second eye releases a dark sickly green ray directed at Hissshido! The mutant lizard Heroically dodges it - and its a good thing too!!

Its wide maw roaring with rage, it begins quickly floating toward the throne.

Making for the large stone throne, the quick moving orb evidently intends to use it for cover!

BLAM! BLAM! Both Gunther and Hagus fire! Gunther's shot narrowly misses the thing but Hagus' round hits solidly at the edge of the large central eye socket for 60 points of damage! Its armored hide prevents 35 points but it suffers 25 points of damage!

Flit's Sonic Blast inflicts an additional 6 points of damage!

Lunging at the flying object, Ziber again misses with the great sword - in fact, misses quite badly.

The Watcher is hardly bothered by these nominal attacks and is about to drop behind the throne (Leaving only the top eyestalks exposed) when...

Hissshido cracks his tail at him, discharging a Stunning Force attack! The large orb flattens slightly as ALL of its eyes squint and its wide dark lips draw taught. It's STUNNED! All of the eyestalks droop and swivel about slowly in a daze as a string of thick saliva pours from one corner of its nasty mouth.

For the moment, it's incapacitated!

Hagus begins to diligently search the large stone 'throne' and the area around it as the others set up to remain here awhile. After about 30 minutes, its obvious that if there is something to be found, it's quite difficult to locate. (G.M. NOTE: In a situation such as this, certain Talents are very helpful - but so is a high IN score. Hagus is tied with Flit for the lowest IN in the party. Therefore, Hagus requires a certain amount of luck in this particularly difficult task. Of course, in keeping with the party's 'Hot Streak', he rolls a 98 and gets it. All I can do at this point is just shake my head...)

After more time passes, (Closer to an hour) its beginning to look the this search is pointless until...

Hagus finds a nodule of stone atop the backrest that can be depressed and turned. Completely seamless and perfectly constructed, this thing was virtually impossible to detect! Activating the mechanism, there is a deep grinding noise - stone on stone - as the large stone seat slides sideways to reveal a square shaped hole in the floor. Eagerly peering inside, the party sees what looks like two (Treasure?!) chests - one large and one small - along with several leather sacks and a box-shaped ancient device of unknown

purpose.

Hagus investigates the shallow recess while the anxious party looks on. After an extended period, he simply shrugs and motions everyone back as he reaches for the stuff. A short while later, and with a bit of help, he has dragged out all the items. Emptying the sacks and opening the old chests (Unlocked), it appears that the Watcher had no deadly safeguards on his 'hoard'. In fact, it hardly appears necessary at first glance because the anticipated cache of gold, enchanted items and high-tech weaponry doesn't materialize.

Here's the breakdown:

1. Golden dipper (soup ladle)
2. Two (2) polished metallic disks with a rainbow-like hue when they are turned and held to the light. They are about 1/3 meter in diameter and weigh practically nothing
3. A very nicely sculpted silver snuffbox
4. An ancient idol of some sort - about 1 meter high and corroded. It depicts a running humanoid wearing some kind of armor while carrying an oblong orb. (football trophy)
5. A shiny silver flute
6. A very fine military pick - well crafted, balanced and light, a good weapon
7. An impressive pendant featuring an attractive dark red gem-stone
8. A nice ring
9. A silver measuring spoon
10. An ancient device that is about the size of a tinderbox. There is a crank on one side and a small hole on another. (pencil sharpener)
11. A pendant. This one is a leather cord supporting an image carved from a dark crystal that has a purple-reddish translucent quality. The image is that of some type of plant being - tall with a mushroomish head and many vine type appendages
12. An ancient canister. (This Tech 4 aerosol spray can is an emergency fire fighting/quasi-military tool. It discharges a GUARENTEED fire retardant mist that coats everything within a 10 meter radius when set on the ground and set off. It even reduces the effect of high temperatures by up to 75% to people, animals and equipment so coated - for up to 3 hours)
13. Eleven (11) H-cell batteries
14. A nice pair of woven sandals
15. A knitted coif
16. A royal cape - black with a shiny purple lining
17. An assortment of spice jars, along with a jar of preserved mushrooms in a fluid and a jar of persevered berries
18. A heavy (40 kg!) ancient box with many complex features. The large box is the most fascinating thing of all. (You do NOT have a good working knowledge of its functions and it needs a bit of repair. It also needs power. Designed for broadcast power, and broadcast only, you might be able to rig the H-cells to get one 'use' out of it. It would take a good roll, though, as well as a good roll to repair it. What you do know is this; the thing is a matter transformer - a cross between a replicator and a transporter. Basically, it re-orders matter to repair things - your vibro-sword, for example)

It is, of course, unknown why The Watcher would collect such things. Perhaps they were taken from previous explorers, accepted as barter or intended to be used as barter. There may be some other ultimate purpose for this odd collection but it will likely remain a mystery.

A slight breeze blows through the cavern, rustling Ziber's orange furs a bit as the battle cat quietly grooms himself near the cave opening.

Outside, a crow flies down and lights upon the displayed carcass of The Watcher and begins pecking at one of the eyestalks. As soon as it gets a glimpse of Ziber, though, it squawks and takes off again in a flutter of black beating wings.

Stepping into the strange mist, the party quickly leaves the cavern behind.

(G.M. Note: In the interest of continuity, I am moving the party forward. If there was something else you wanted to do in the cave or something you wanted to pick up/discard or whatever, its still possible to do that. Since some people just don't post very often, I can't wait on them.)

In the tunnel, nothing can be clearly discerned except for the party members themselves and the fact that there is a solid surface below, to the sides and above. Moving forward, the party travels for approximately one hour before stepping out into a forest setting. Behind them, the 'tunnel' is only visible as a cloud of quickly fading mist. Strangely, the mist itself quickly dissipates and there is no longer any sign of the passageway at all. In fact, its quite unclear how it could have ended in the middle of a forest, but somehow it obviously has.

Looking around, several things can be sighted right away. This forest is very reminiscent of the previous landscape (Outside of the Watchers cave...). This is a very old forest and is filled with beautiful flowering plants, blossoms and colorful singing birds - an idyllic setting.

Just ahead through the trees, another road can be seen. This one is also built from stones but all of these stones are white. Someone must look after it often as it is very well kept. This road leads down a gentle slope to a wide quiet river - this can also be seen through the trees from the party's current position. Where the road meets the river's edge, it becomes an elegant white arched bridge that leads to an island in the center of the river. On this island is a beautiful castle - a central round keep (3 stories) atop which sit 5 towers - two small and 3 larger. Around the lower part of the castle appear high stained glass windows and smaller watch towers. Atop all the towers and spires, long thin banners flutter in the soft breeze that caresses the countryside.

It is noted that the road wraps around the castle on either side and becomes another arched bridge on the opposite side - leading off into the forested terrain on the far bank as well.

It appears that the entrance, a huge elegantly carved wooden gate, is on the side of the river that the party faces.

Lastly, it should be noted that there are many apparently empty suits of armor along the battlements atop the main keep. Holding spears and bows, its not clear how these suits of finely crafted platemail are being held up (Perhaps mounted on poles?) but there are several dozen within clear view.

Moving forward, the party travels down the white stone road, crosses the fine arched bridge to the island and approaches the castle. Ziber finally gives in and bounds up from behind to join the others. Reaching the large oak doors, the party finds a large iron knocker there. Looking up, there is nothing more to be discerned about the high towers above, nor the empty suits of armor that line the battlements.

The place seems strangely still and quiet.

As the doorknocker is banged against the huge oak doors, Flit rises to fly about the upper reaches, peer in the windows, etc. as would be expected. However, as he crests the battlements, the empty suits of armor suddenly animate and begin to draw bows and notch arrows to fire at the flying mutant hero! Even before he (Or anyone in the party) can react, however, he SMACKS into some invisible stonework (Most likely an arch of some kind connecting two of the towers)!

Flit suffers 20 points of damage and is Knocked Out! Fighting to stay conscious, his survival instinct takes over and he dizzily flutters downward - bird eyes rolling. Finally, he slips from consciousness and simply falls the remaining 3 or 4 meters to plop onto the ground next to Gasgut... PLOP!

The many suits of armor, peer down at the party from the battlements, arrows still notched but not readying to fire at the moment...

After the standoff hangs in the air for nearly 10 seconds, one of the two oak double-doors swings slowly open. Behind it stands a feeble old elfish figure, supporting himself with a black gain (The cane's handle is finely carved as a dragon's head). He is plainly dressed and wears both several rings and a silver amulet.

Looking down at Flit, the old elf's eyes look up at the party with some curiosity. "My... what's all this then? May I help the lot of you in some way?"

"Where are you? Why, you are at The Palace - some say the Tower of Light. Sadly, it is MY prison."

Giving a warm, yet sad smile toward the party, he asks, "How do you come to this place yet not know where it is you find yourself? If only I were free to travel, you can be certain that I would know where I was going!"

He gives the assembled group a very thoughtful look - his eyes lingering on the Tech III & IV equipment and weapons that the heroes bear. Gesturing inward, he says politely, "Since you are lost, feel free to come inside for refreshment and rest. Take a tour of the Palace if you wish, I care not. Please, though, a warning - do not touch or remove anything that you see within these walls. While it is my home, it is NOT my property. The Master of this house is quick to anger and... trust me - you do not want to incur his wrath."

The old elf slowly shuffles aside to allow entry (If that's the party's intention...).

Behind him, the party can see into the hall. It rises 10 meters to a domed brass ceiling that radiates a strange but pleasant light. Two rows of pillars extend from the large carved oak doors to the far wall - upon the far wall is carved a large perfect circle with rune-type inscriptions surrounding it. Between the pillars hang translucent curtains. Behind the pillars & curtains (On both sides of the round hall) are white marble stairs that curve upward to the next floor. Two large statues (3 meters high) stand near the foot of each set of stairs. These statues depict warriors with elfish features but... there's something odd about them. Its not easy to tell what it is... there's just something strange about them.

Looking around fearfully, as if afraid of being overheard, the old elf says in a low hushed tone, "Why... this be the home of Moorkroft, The Elfbane. I crossed him long ago and now I am cursed to be the custodian of this place. I will never again step foot outside these walls."

Looking blankly at Gunther, he says, "This is no city-state. This is a Kingdom, and you stand at the seat of its power."

"My fate is my fate. I will speak no more of it." The old elf sadly states.

Having gotten his attention, the old figure responds to Hagus with a bit of a smile, "Well, there are actually four defined 'regions' within the forest..."

Trailing off, he looks past the party and exclaims in a low worried voice, "Oh my... more visitors." With a concerned frown, he closes the large oak door again with a creak and a thud.

Coming from behind the party, flying towards the island castle at treetop level, are 10 large birds. In fact, they actually have the physical hindquarters of Very Large cats! With features otherwise resembling huge eagles, these 4-limbed creatures sport wide feathered wings and are approaching at high speed. The suits of armor atop the battlements look up at these approaching things as well.

Flit's feathered bird-neck flops sideways as Gasgut props up his unconscious Friend.

As Gasgut muses, the line of flying griffins draws closer, clearing the treeline and passing over the river. They are now 200 meters away and closing at over 100 meters per combat round.

"Yep," Hagus thinks to himself, "they think we're lunch!" Bracing his scoped rifle, he fires two shots at the lead flyer. Both hit! It suffers 60 points of damage and drops in altitude, Stunned!

Flit Heroically swims back to consciousness at the sound of Hagus' rifle fire!

Backs to the wall, the party is confronted by 9 attacking griffins within seconds! Just as they close, Hagus fires 2 more shots, the first at short-range and the second at Point Blank range! Gasgut fires both scattergun barrels at Point Blank range! Hissshido fires a scattergun shot at Point Blank range!

Hagus narrowly misses with the first shot - these creatures are incredibly agile for their size and are now more wary of the party's Tech III weaponry, as if semi-intelligent! His second shot hits for 25 points of damage! The flying attacker is stunned!

Gasgut hits with both barrels! His foe is struck for 30 points of damage and is thrown against the stone wall. It's Knocked Out and falls to the ground!

Immediately, Gasgut and Hagus are each attacked by another of these creatures!

Hissshido's shot hits but it is simply a graze. The beast suffers 14 points and attacks. However, Hissshido is able to duck and use his scattergun defensively to fight off the large talons and plunging beak thrusts! Hissshido is undamaged!

The things bite and claw but are trying to grasp as an eagle or hawk would to carry off prey... or like a cat would to rake!

Flit is positioned safely (For the moment) behind the others and is not attacked!

Gunther, faced with melee, takes a completely defensive tactic and uses the shield to parry! This works fairly well as its talons can't get past the large plastic barrier. In fact it suffers a minor injury (2 points of damage) hitting the large plastic thing! However, it does bite Gunther in the head - and badly! Gunther suffers 60 points of damage and is temporarily blinded by a gush of blood and leather headgear askew!

Ziber doesn't fare much better as he takes on one of his own. Evidently mesmerized by these strange mixtures of bird & cat, Ziber has simply stood there, not even drawing his sword - not until its too late... Ziber suffers 36 points of talon and biting damage!

Two more still fly about nearby, ready to swirl about and attack as soon as there is an opening!

BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! Gunther heroically clears his eyes as he repeatedly pulls the trigger in a desperate melee. This proves near fruitless, however. During the struggle his hand is knocked aside and the first 3 shots go off in the air (Fortunately, not hitting another party member!) He does graze the thrashing beast with one shot but fires the last one into the ground WITH THE BARREL ALSO PRESSED INTO THE GROUND. The griffin suffers nominal 8 points of damage but the ruined auto-pistol is blown from Gunther's hand! Again, Gunther's arm dangles useless as its numbed to the bone...

Hissing out his command, the party very briefly shuts its collective eyes as the lizard warrior discharges his Blinding Flash ability! Again, its effect is overwhelming to its intended targets. All but two of them are blinded! Amidst a CHORUS of panicked screeching and cawing, the monsters flap about - bumping into each other and the ground before trying to fly upward and/or away.

Two of them, though, continue their ferocious attack - the two on Gunther and Ziber.

Scrambling to use the large plastic shield for maximum protection, Gunther manages to avoid the slashing, grasping talons and biting beak. His armor prevents damage from the scratch that does connect.

Ziber, though, is being eaten alive by his rending foe. While his ringmail saves his life and the dodging cat DOES prevent the griffin from grasping and raking, Ziber suffers 64 points of damage! Ziber is stunned! Ziber is VERY near death!

Taking the opening to quickly change weapons, Hagus steps forward and brings down the fine military pick onto one of the blind one's side. Hagus strikes it for 45 points of damage and it shrieks even louder in pain!

The blinded monsters continue their LOUD and shrill screeching - most of them settling to the ground, rapidly beating their wings like huge flustered chickens. However, the two battling beasts seem oblivious to the plight of their comrades and continue their savage assault.

It is only through Hissshido's Heroic rally that the party gets the drop on them at this critical moment! Popping that tail just as Ziber Heroically snaps to and scampers aside, the wild flying terror is blown off the bloodied cat by Hissshido's Stunning Force! It's Knocked Out! With an usually crazed (And genuinely disturbing) look in his eyes, Gasgut steps up immediately and severs the thing's head with one long arc of his family sword!

Hagus tries to finish off the one he's previously wounded but it seems to sense his approach. Fluttering up and back while thrashing those talons, it manages to avoid that deadly pick for the moment.

Heroically regaining the use of his numbed arm, Gunther flicks on the vibro-sword in self-defense! From his defensive position, he manages to wound it slightly for seven points. Raking wildly with talons and beak, it fights past and through the human's sword and shield. Gunther is simply overwhelmed with the size and fury of this thing as it grasps with its talons and rakes with its hind paws - Gunther's armor helps a bit but the struggling human suffers 70 points of damage! Gunther is in serious pain and in trouble!

Flying up directly behind one of the screeching blind ones, Flit opens fire with his auto-pistol at Point Blank range! His first shot hits the thing for 36 points of damage, stunning it! His second shot, however, is a rare chamber explosion (Must have been a bad round)! Fire shoots from the gun as its blown from the bird's tiny hand, only to dangle from the secure thong tied to his thin bird 'wrist'. Now FLIT'S auto-pistol is damaged! Flit's shooting arm is numbed useless from the shock of the misfire!

Just as he gets out of the way, Ziber rolls over onto all fours - panting heavily as the blood drips from his gashed chin. Within a few seconds, he collapses... unconscious!

The griffin on Gunther continues to maul the hapless human, despite all attempts to fend the thing off. Gunther suffers 32 points of damage and falls Unconscious! (G.M. NOTE: Gunther is at ZERO hit points. Unless he receives medical attention within 30 seconds, Gunther will DIE.)

Hissshido, however, promptly gets its attention as he clips it with Ziber's sword for 25 points of damage! NOW, it's turned its focus to that lizard!

Hagus steps to the one that Flit had just hit with the auto-pistol round and kills the Stunned beast with his pick!

Possessed by some kind of crazed mania, Gasgut comes up beneath one of the undamaged ones flapping about and strikes it for 88 points of damage with his longsword! Its Critically Injured (But still able to fight at half-strength should it be forced to)!

Flit lets loose with a tremendous Sonic Blast! He hits TWO of the things with it (And very nearly gets Hagus too!). Each of the beasts suffers 30 points of damage! One of them collapses onto the ground from the shock and the other is stunned!

With Gunther and Ziber down, Flit seems confused as what to do...

Meanwhile, Gasgut's arcing blade decapitates the one he had previously struck - it collapses in a gruesome heap while Hagus crushes the skull of a Sonic Blasted/Stunned monster before it can ready itself!

Hissshido has a bit more trouble, though. Fighting the lone active creature, his sword usage proves ineffective and he has to heroically dodge the thing's lashing talons and plunging beak!

(G.M. NOTE: There are now 6 of these creatures left alive. One is seriously wounded and is roughly 50 meters away {It's the one that Hagus first hit with rifle fire...} - it hasn't come forward and doesn't seem to interested in the combat at hand. A second one lies unconscious near the wall but is groggily coming around it appears. There are two Blinded ones on the ground - both are wounded. A fifth one, also blinded, flaps about near the ground, undamaged. The last one, wounded, fights Hissshido.

There are about 20 seconds of blindness left. Coincidentally, that's about how long Gunther has to live...)

Without pause, the rending griffin tears at Hissshido but the battling lizard's armor prevents all damage! Hissshido isn't able to strike the thing with the sword as he defends!

Hagus' shot narrowly misses his target, as does Gusgut's wild slashing sword!

Flit lands beside Gunther. With one limp bird-arm, he's forced to open the flask with his a strong peck from his beak. Forcing the majicked liquid down the human's blood covered throat, Flit ignores the battle raging a few meters away!

Within seconds, the surviving griffins have completely regained their sight! Seeing half their number dead & the fact that they're ALL badly wounded, the lot of them simply takes flight - squawking & beating their wide blood spattered wings. They are moving away in random directions but two of them actually are headed for the top of the castle.

As Hagus, naturally, sights one of them for another shot, he pauses as Gasgut attacks him! It appears the sword wielding human wants to fight some more and it DOESN'T MATTER who or what! Just as Hagus raises the rifle defensively, Gasgut Heroically regains his senses and slowly lowers his sword as he breathes heavily - dripping sweat in a rage...

By this time, it appears that Gunther is coming around - his wounds being rapidly healed to 100%! Ziber appears to be very badly hurt but not mortally wounded.

Watching the fleeing griffins fly away, it is noted that the two that flew up to the top of the castle actually flew INTO the largest of the three main towers.

Hagus doesn't cover anything with his scoped HP rifle. Instead, he sets about performing some surgery on the paws of the dead griffins. Meanwhile, Ziber begins groaning a bit as he comes to.

In the distance, behind the tree line, the wounded griffins can be heard screeching occasionally.

The door to the castle remains shut.

The old elf doesn't answer the door. In fact, it sounds like someone slides a bar across the other side, locking it.

After some high altitude scanning, Flit returns to chirp out a report. It can be summarized as follows:

The river and island are located within a large forest region. The river flows down from a mountain range - roughly 40 km to the east. It drains into a sea about 15 km to the west.

As noted before, the white stone road leads north, beyond this castle and across the river. The road also, of course, leads south - back in the direction that the party approached the river from.

From his great height, Flit is able to note numerous other features. Firstly, that this mountain range to the west actually curves around in a vast crescent shape to form a border along the far north and south as well - sort of enclosing this forested terrain in against the sea. There are, though, very large areas of grassy plains and hills between the base of the mountains and the forest's farthest edges. There is also a large (About 10-km wide) clearing in the rough center of the wooded territory - in the direction of the road leading north. At various points throughout, he can sight high distant hills rising above the trees - 4, in particular, are quite prominent.

Virtually no detail of these sights is discernable due to the great distance, as Flit is not particularly gifted with extraordinary vision and/or perception.

Flit points out that the party is near the southern point of this region that is enclosed by the sea to the west and the vast 'crescent' mountain range. The 4 prominent hills basically surround that wide central clearing but they are more like N/E, S/E, S/W & N/W rather than E, W, N & S as Gunther hypothesized.

The birdish scout shakes his feathered head, seeing no correlation between the sprawling vista and any kind of 'clock'.

As Gunther sights in on the things with through Hagus' scope, he takes it away from his eye as everyone sights one of them diving toward the party.

Within a minute or so, a lone griffin lands at the edge of the clearing. Its painted markings are clearly visible to all - peering at it through the cover of the thicket off the road. Into its furred portion have been traced dark spiral & woven designs with some kind of dye that appears to have been there for a long time. In fact, this creature appears to be considerably older than the ones the party fought the day before.

It can see the party but doesn't behave in any kind of threatening way. In fact, it lowers itself a bit and begins cawing repeatedly as if trying to communicate. Flit, it seems, may be able to understand its message - at least to some degree. Ziber, too, seems to be much less threatened by this creature, as its tail movements must be communicating friendly intentions to the battle-cat.

After a minute or so of this odd behavior, it begins pawing at the ground near the edge of the white stone road. Its powerful claws pulling up dirt and leaves, it digs into the forest soil. Within a few minutes, a skeletal hand is revealed. Continuing to dig, it begins throwing up additional humanoid remains from a shallow grave.

Backing away, it appears to be waiting for some action from the party now. The others continue to circle - lower now - but still over 200 meters above the trees.

Looking closely, Hagus discovers the remains of at least 5 orcs and as many huge wolves. They've been dead for some time and the remains are nearly all skeletal with hair, fur and remains of badly rended armor and shields. It looks very much like these orcs and wolves were killed 'griffin' style - judging by what's left of them. Other than that, the carcasses dug up reveal no special insight into the nature of these particular griffins or what, exactly, they might be meaning to communicate.

After looking closely at this unearthed burial sight, the party notices that the other 15 griffins have flown on a bit to the west but are still basically circling. The old griffin that the party has been observing turns and begins to slowly walk toward the west as well - keeping close to the treeline but not entering into the grasslands beyond. After about 15 paces, it stops to look back at the party, slowly twitching its tail.

Deciding to follow the old griffin, the party is lead along the edge of the forest for the better part of the day. Leaving the road far behind, there is felt a certain amount of trepidation as so much trust is being placed in this beast (And those flying above!). Finally, the creature turns back into the woods, moving through thick growth that is difficult to pass through with heavy equipment & weapons such as the party carries. Nearly losing sight of it more than once, the group finally arrives at a stone hut - its greenish stone walls nearly invisible from even a short distance away.

As the party approaches it, the remaining griffins descend through open places in the trees to land about the area. Most of them simply watch but several take to grooming themselves a bit.

Peering inside the dank structure, one's eyes gradually adjust to the darkness inside. Moving in, Hagus and Gasgut pull aside large and heavy tarps to reveal odd shaped saddles and long lances. Looking back at these griffins, it soon becomes obvious that this gear is designed for aerial combat atop these creatures - they seem to be offering their services as steeds!

With a rush of air and the beating of wings, Ziber's mount takes to the heavens! From below, all can see their furry comrade riding about above the treetops. Soon, Hagus and Gasgut join him as they too take flight atop their willing mounts.

Hagus, it seems, has a real talent for managing these flying creatures while Gasgut and Ziber do little more than hang on.

Screeching, the large winged beasts appear anxious to fly to some unknown destination.

(G.M. NOTE: Perhaps Flit knows, but the hummingbird isn't humming right now...)

Taking off eastward, the griffins fly at a very high rate of speed! In fact, they must constantly slow down for Flit to catch up.

With the party grouped together the remaining 10 beasts fan out in front - basically in a wide arc formation. Keeping at treetop level, a lot of ground is being covered QUICKLY in this manner.

Moving toward the mountains in the east, the edge of the forest can be sighted ahead. As Flit described, there is a large region of hilly plains between the forests and the base of the mountain range beyond. Flying toward it, though, something else comes into view - something ahead...

Atop a low rise, sits some kind of log fort - square shaped with wooden towers in each corner and half a dozen wooden buildings that look like barracks. Yes, as the party draws closer, it becomes clear that this is a major orcish stronghold! Above the fort, large (MUCH large than the griffins) winged reptilian creatures - apparently mounted by riders - fly in wide concentric patterns, some of them landing within the fort while others appear to be flying off for some purpose.

As soon as all of this comes into clear view, however, it appears that the party is spotted! Immediately, 12 of these huge mounted creatures and riders begin moving to intercept the incoming party and its furred/feathered escort.

Additionally, there is a large cabin near the barracks with several fire pots outside its door. From within it, steps out a 4-meter tall giant with flaming red hair and coal black skin. He wears a ring with a brilliant flat gold top that catches the light of the setting sun with a momentary flash. Seeing the party approaching and potential aerial combat looming, he steps back inside his cabin.

Amongst wagons, piles of hay & various animals (Including numerous barking hounds), the party can see that this fort is 'manned' by something like 100 orcs. Many of them begin running to climb the walls and towers as they ready bows.

Hagus fires two HP rifle shots at extreme range. Both miss and a sudden buffet actually causes the hairless one to strike his own chin with the rifle stock - Hagus is stunned and slumps a bit in the saddle!

The rising wyverns and riders continue to head straight for the party and the griffins head straight for them.

(G.M. NOTE: The two flying groups are now about 350 meters apart. It will take two (2) more rounds to close. Bow use (For Gasgut, or anyone else) won't be possible until that second round. By the way, the griffins DO move faster than the much larger Wyverns...)

Both formations close on each other at battle speed. The two groups are now 50 meters apart and will make contact next round.

As the 10 lead griffins crash into the oncoming wyverns, the party - lead by Gunther's mount - is able to dive and turn to avoid combat!

Amidst shrieking and roars, the griffins tear at the large wyverns and riders in a fierce aerial duel! Looking behind them the party sees griffins falling from the sky and a wyvern or two as well - the carnage is unbelievable.

The delay is enough for the group to flee the scene, however and the sounds of battling monsters and orcish drums gradually fade as the group's flyers skim the treetops headed south.

Moving south, the griffins silently (Well, mostly silently - they occasionally cry out in eagle fashion as they fly...) carry the party away from the orcish fortress in the foothills.

Headed in the general direction of a very large hill, Hagus feels comfortable with that destination. (G.M. NOTE: This 10 km wide hill is east of the great forest and is one of the major terrain features in this forested valley that Flit described. To the south of it flows the large river that travels from east to west. To the east, it flows down from the mountains and winds through the hill country. To the west, it enters the old forest and travels past the strange castle. Also to the west of the sprawling high hill, the large clearing in the forest's center is distantly visible...)

Eventually, the griffins find a place to land and deposit their riders. There are a few attempts to communicate with Flit (Evidently) once on the ground but the hummingbird looks on with blank blinking bird eyes and then proceeds to groom his colorful feathers. Soon thereafter, the marked beasts suddenly take off in a rush of wind from their beating wings. Circling overhead, their shrill cries fill the party's ears until they slowly loop about and head off westward - dropping in altitude beyond the hill and returning closer to treetop level as they head for the western horizon.

Trying in vain to catch the fast flying griffins, Flit finally returns in frustration. However, the hummingbird hums that he spotted something on the other slope that wasn't visible from the party's earlier approach. It’s a statue - twice the size of a man - of what appears to be a wrestler. It’s carved from stone and has turned greenish from exposure. He didn't get close enough to tell any more about it or its surroundings. It just looked interesting.

The sun is now setting as the group finally reaches the sight of this old carving. In the fading light, there are several things about it and the area surrounding it that are worth noting:

First, there is an old and small trail leading away from it that Hagus discovers. It hasn't been traveled in some time and leads down the hill, toward the forest to the west. Additionally, there are some groupings of stone along this trail that have been overgrown with grass and weeds. But looking at them, they seem to have placed where they are as markers or some other form of communication to a would-be observer.

Most interesting is a number of humanoid remains that are encountered in the area as well. They appear to be orcish but have been lying here for a VERY long time and aren't even noticeable until stumbled upon. Looking at the rusted remnants of their armor, helms and shields, they apparently died from severe smashing damage.

Again, the statue appears to be a representation of a human in a wrestling pose. It is a nude and the figure is quite muscular. It is a large statue, over 3 meters tall, and has experienced much weathering as a result of many years of exposure to the elements. There is an additional feature to this work of art as well. Set into its forehead is a small disk or medallion. It is covered with dust and grime (Like the rest of the statue) but it distinctly appears to be made of gold.

The night passes as the heroic explorers camp near the old statue.

It is now the next morning as the clever and resourceful party performs its normal routine of ignoring its capabilities and sitting dumbstruck.

Nothing happens when Flit touches the gold medallion.

<As Ziber>

Purring softly, Ziber seems to enjoy the warmth of the morning sun upon his aching and wounded body. His tail flicking to and fro slightly, he says, "All I can think about is King Juba's treasurrre..." His eyes narrow a bit as a slight breeze rustles his fur. Looking at Gunther, he says, "That's why we're herrre. But this whole rrrealm is some kind of grrreat mysterrry. We need to know what to DO." His eyes flashing, his ears perk up a bit as he adds, "We need clues."

Turning his wide head to the statue, he thinks out loud. "That piece of gold in its head... . Guntherrr says that giant in the orrrcish hold wore a similar thing on a fingerrr. Guntherrr has good sight!"

Lifting a claw to indicate Flit, he continues. "Now Flit hearrrd the grrriffons say that 'gentle peoples' wanted that giant's rrring. Those grrriffons would fight to the death forrr it. They seem prrrogrammed to do this - to somehow be prrredisposed to aid anyone else who would as well. Like, this is the purrrpose of theirrr lives. Why can't these 'gentle peoples' just get it themselves? If they can control these grrriffons, they can do ALOT."

Taking a break now that he is fully awake, Ziber stretches and scratches behind his right ear with his right leg. Biting and snitting after a flea on his right paw, he returns to his musings. Lying on his belly, he drums the 'fingers' of one paw, saying, "I think these 'gentle peoples' arrre the sleeping elves that seem to be the key to saving this special trree - wherrreverrr this trrree is. It seems logical that if they wanted that ring, they would want this piece of gold too. After all, Guntherrr claims they are nearrrly identical. Since everrryone is so worrried about this piece of rrrock coming to life, why don't we make a new camp to the west. We can move down therrre, to the forest - about 10 kilometerrrs from here. Then Flit can fly back and teleport that thing out of its forrrehead and rejoin us. With the right 'encouragement', maybe he can teleport into the orrrcich home at night and teleport that ring off that giant's finger too." Winking at the head-bobbing hummingbird, he asks, "Wouldn't that be possible?" Stretching out, he bares his amble fangs in a great yawn as his back arches and all of his claws extend. Settling back down, he seems to fall half-asleep.

Taking the better part of the day, the party finds a suitable spot for a campsight in the edge of the forest to the west. Having traveled for nearly 10 km, there is not much left to be done today but set up for the night.

Currently, food & water supplies are still good for at least a week.

(G.M. NOTE: The orc fortress is over 40 KM to the NE. On foot, it would take the party 3 days to reach it - assuming no one gets lost. Flit could probably make it in one day if he left early and flew hard with a light load. Flit can make it to the statue and back in a matter of a few hours...)

It's well after dark when Flit returns. As he comes back into the camp, he proudly shows off his new gold medallion! He was successful! The night passes uneventfully and, eventually, dawn breaks anew in the forest valley. Poor Ziber, it seems, has not gained any benefit from his self-healing mutation for the THIRD night in a row.

(G.M. NOTE: Ziber heals faster than everyone else when spending a day in rest due to his mutated cat nature. If Flit administers First Aid successfully on any given day of rest, he'll heal at a double rate. By the way, FLIT is still suffering from 20 points of damage too...)

<As Ziber>

Slowly opening one eye about halfway, Ziber sleepily peers at Gunther, his tail flicking slightly. Within moments, however, he is again asleep in his shady spot.

<As Ziber>

Snapping his wide head up, Ziber bares his fangs and hisses at the playful mutant bird. Swatting at the annoying pest, he narrows his eyes and watches as Flit flaps about. Slowly, slowly, the cat falls back asleep – shifting slightly on his comfortable spot.

Dropping a bit of his weaponry, Flit prepares to take off. He soon realizes, though, that with the damage pack and grenades added to his load, he'll have to dump a lot more - that is, if he has any plans of fleeing a pursuing pack of wyverns. Quickly, the hummingbird sheds his armor and ALL equipment. Except for his utility harness and camouflage cloak, his only other item carried is his recently found 'tuft' pendant, which he seems to hold dear for some reason. Taking off, the party soon loses sight of him and can only hope for the best.

The day passes uneventfully as the group awaits the return of their feathered comrade. Hagus and Gasgut return from their hunting trip without any meat, although it appears Gasgut has augmented the party's supplies with a quantity of edible fruit. After dark, the party posts watches as normal, with still no sign of the birdish warrior.

It is at dawn of the next day that a sudden rush of beating wings announces the return of Flit! Heaving for air, the exhausted bird drops into the camp and chunks the giant's ring near the smoldering coals of the previous night's fire. Flit appears EXTREMELY weary but obviously quite excited and proud. Ziber, who appears to have benefited somewhat from the day's rest, lazily stretches a bit and twitches his nose in the direction of the ring. Looking at it, it is obvious that the gold medallion set into the top of the ring is very similar to the one Flit took from the statue's forehead.

The sun continues to rise as its light filters down through the old growth forest canopy. Ziber shifts his position to take advantage of a particularly warm ray of light. Lying on his side, he opens his fanged mouth in an mighty wide-eyed yawn before preparing to spend another day sleeping and dreaming of whatever cats dream of.

As Flit & Ziber seem to want little more than continued rest, nothing more occurs on the day of Flit's return.

The next morning finds that both he and Ziber are doing better.

(G.M. NOTE: Ziber has healed another 25 points and Flit has healed 5 points)

As Ziber…

The cat-warrior lazily opens his eyes, having swiveled his orange ears in the direction of the conversation. "Does this mean we're moving out again?" he asks with a fanged yawn.

The party spends the rest of the day (And night) pondering Gunther's map and these two gold medallions.

The next morning find Flit and Ziber in even better shape. Flit has healed an additional 5 points and Ziber has healed another 6 points.

In addition, both Hagus and Gasgut were better able to provide food for the group during the day and an additional day's rations is stockpiled. Hagus & Gasgut estimate that the party has provisions for 9 uninterrupted days of travel at this point.

As another morning dawns in this serene forest camp, something surprising occurs! A large vine shrouded oak at the edge of the camp suddenly begins to stir. VERY slooooooooooooooowly.... its limps flex and stretch and a definite 'face' becomes evident on its trunk. This is a similar being to the Old King, encountered before, but this one is even OLDER!!

Man, this thing is SLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOW!!!!!!! Amazingly, no one even noticed it before.

"You woke me three days ago." The wooden being speaks INCREDIBLY SLOWLY. It must be very old.

After about 20 minutes, its eyes slowly blink again (Taking about 5 minutes to do so). Looking over at Flit, it voices,

"So, you are finding the keys…" Having said that, it just sort of shudders slightly - sending a few perched birds fluttering off - and then just stands there.

As everyone waits for the thing to say something else, Flit's bird-head darts back and forth expectantly while the minutes drag on.

Finally, the creature's eyes slowly close and it begins to emit a sound that could vaguely be construed as... snoring.

(G.M. NOTE: Flit can't fly around this vast campaign area on his own. That won't work as it’s against the standing rule of not splitting up. His last solo flight was specific and preplanned and would either be a success or result in his death. An open-ended private adventuring campaign with different timelines, private dialogue, etc. simply isn't feasible.)

Packing up, the party heads out down the long sloping hill. Using the trail, the group is able to eventually re-enter the forest and even comes upon the familiar white stone road again - this time its laid out in east west fashion, presumably leading to the central plains area.

As dusk approaches, there are sounds heard up ahead - sounds of battle! Flit flies through the trees to see if he can scout out what's going on and returns with an excited report. It seems there are two groups of 'horse-men' combating each other about 100 meters away from the party. They are fighting with arrows and hurled spears at the moment but are slowly closing for melee. There are roughly several dozen on each side of the fight!

Flit describes these creatures as horses with human torsos instead of horse's heads - literally half man and half horse

As Flit turns about to fly ahead again, Hagus & Gasgut decide to move forward with stealth.

Gunther remains behind with Ziber & Hissshido. As the human tries in vain to get a view through the dense forest, the two mutant animals ready their weapons in a defensive and concealed position near the road.

Soon, the other three can no longer see Flit, Hagus & Gasgut.

As several party members observe the action, they see that the fight finally breaks up as one of the centaurs - an older male - acts as peacemaker and is able to interpose himself between the warring factions. They seem to respect his actions but he too is wounded and some on one side still jeer and taunt him although most on both sides remain silent yet enraged.

Numerous beings on both sides are wounded, several quite badly.

The old one calls out, "This is pointless! Please! We have injured! Please! Let us call a halt to this at once, I beg you all!"

Most seem to be lowering their weapons as a result.

As Hagus and Flit reveal themselves, the centaurs abruptly become alert and ready their weapons - this time, as if united against a common foe. As they eye the two approaching mutant heroes, it is clear that they have never seen beings like Hagus and Flit before. While wary, they are obviously curious and appear very interested in the advanced weaponry and gear that the two party members are sporting.

The older one - the one who broke up the brawl - approaches. Raising a hand in greeting, he asks, "Who is this now coming among us? More of Moorkroft's servants?"

He doesn't appear hostile, yet he isn't exuding 'warmth' either and his horse tail twitches from side to side as he speaks.

The man-horse beasts do not at all seem alarmed by Flit's revelation of others in hiding. In fact, they seem to noticeably relax and appear very interested in the party and its purpose.

Several can be heard talking amongst themselves, saying things such as, "Could this be the prophecy? Are they the ones? Look at their out-world weapons - they must possess great power to have come this far."

Others, exclusively amongst the group that was battling the other, point at their previous foes saying things such as, "NOW we have the means! If they ally with us, we are ready now!" Those they speak to respond more cautiously, as one of them says, "Who's to say they are allies or even care? It’s too dangerous. This is foolhardy!"

As the two groups exchange these words, they begin to rise to anger again. It soon becomes apparent that they may soon actually take up arms against each other anew.

Trying to keep the peace, the older one holds up his arms as he clops-clops closer to the group. "Yes", he says, "our wounded could use whatever care you could provide." He motions for several of those gathered to provide Flit with water and whatever else he needs, which they immediately begin to do. "We MUST know - what is your purpose here. Why have out-worlders come to our lands?"

The clan-master looks down at Gasgut and says, "Moorkroft is the great grandson of another sorcerer of the same name. We know him as Moorkroft, the 4th. It was his ancestor who decided to build an empire of evil within these lands and expel all other life."

As Gunther speaks, the centaurs gather closer to hear - the clan-master himself listening very closely to what the human has to say.

"The Tower of Light, you say?" Looking about at the others, he nods knowingly and says with a sorrowful and grave voice, "That is the Moorkrof’s' home and has been for generations. The individual you spoke to was none other than the evil one himself." Pausing, he seems to be thinking and studying the party. Then, continuing, he adds, "My son is held captive there. He will only be released when our clan swears allegiance to his sovereignty over this part of the forest - our homeland." Waving his hand he says, some of us feel we must submit while others... others of us would attack him now – somehow finding a way inside his fortress to destroy him once and for all. But there is more..."

Uncorking a wine flask, he takes a deep drink, wipes his bearded mouth with the back of his hand and hands it to Gasgut. With not-too-well concealed excitement, he says, "The legends tell that the spirits of the old elves are hiding - some say sleeping - within the hearts of oak trees scattered throughout this territory. Their essence lies trapped within the wood as the line of Tree-Keepers has been killed off by an elder Moorkroft. The Moorkrofts, they say, suffer from a curse laid down upon Moorkroft the 1st by the mighty Tree-Keeper at the time of his coming. He and his seed are doomed to live a horrid existence inside rotting shriveled bodies. However, the legend says that our current tormenter's father discovered the secret of these sleeping elven spirits and has been systematically finding their trees and extracting their essence for sustenance. You see, this extraction of an 'inhabited' tree - when one can be found - temporarily reverses the disease process and even halts his body's aging. Why the elves' spirits are suspended within these oaks is a mystery - many believe that they too were cursed to imprisonment when they didn't fight hard enough to defend their sacred forests - but such is the talk of old mares."

"There is a legend, though..." "There is a tale of a time when out-worlders will come and take the place of the long dead Keeper. It is said that this band will find the hidden Tree of Life and, in doing so, free the spirits of the sleeping elves to reclaim their lost right. I have reason to believe this particular legend is more than a colt's bedtime story. Firstly, Moorkroft's forces have become increasingly active in the last several months - as if searching for something or someone. Dangers lurk everywhere. Even his orcish troops, who he never before allowed within the forests, can be spotted fouling the roads with their filth. The legend says the out-worlders will come in the spring and it is spring. And then there's you..."

Thoughtfully, without taking his eyes off the party, he reaches into his leather vest and pulls forth another of the gold medallions. Tossing it to Gunther, he says, "Its a family heirloom. No one seems to remember how we came to own it. I've always kept this in remembrance of my father but I feel, somehow, you should have it. I never thought of it as a 'key' before. Please take it as my gift." The others look on, many nodding in agreement as Flit administers to the nearby wounded. "We offer whatever assistance we may in your quest... and... would be most grateful if you could aid me in the retrieval of my son."

He begins to speak again when he is interrupted by a sound from above. HIGH overhead, one of the familiar 'painted' griffins circles - producing its high-pitched eagle cry. Looking up through the trees, he watches it for a moment - disinterested. Then refocuses upon the party. "This... 'Ingree' of which you speak. I have heard tell of it before. They say it may only be reached by means of magic. Be this true?"

Since the heroic party doesn't seem to know what to do next, the centaurs offer to prepare a small feast for the group so that everyone can relax together for awhile. Moving off the road, the entire party relocates to a nearby stream where the wounded seem to find some relief in the muddy banks.

The debate remains quite animated amongst the clan, however, as to whether or not to confront Moorkroft in battle or to submit to his rule. The two 'camps' within the centaur clan are each staunchly opposed to the other's point of view.

Trying to respond to both Gasgut and Hagus, the clan-master says, "Moorkroft's forces are plentiful and ruthless. He controls thousands of stinking orcs - both here and in far-away realms. His magic is powerful as well - not to mention many horrible creatures that have allied themselves with his armies. In our land, those of us who would ally together are scattered and most avoid contact out of fear. However, if there were a leader... one who could call all to arms... then maybe, no YES! I am certain that we could muster forces sufficient to fight back! The mighty dwarvish clan and the unicorns come to mind. Of course, awaking the elves is of paramount importance as they truly have the power to expel this evil from our midst forever. If the legend were true that they were made to sleep in response to their pacifism, then surely their will to fight would be great! Of course, I speak only of myths now..."

Hissshido looks on. Chewing a large melon, he hisses as he spits seeds.

The clan-master looks at Gunther's map while stroking his beard. "Hmmm...", he says, "The dwarvish clans live in this region - here." He points to the NE corner of the forest, between the base of the mountain range and the large hill that rises from the forest there."

Looking around at his nodding compadres, he says, "Yes. Yes, I believe we CAN call a Gathering. We will begin tomorrow. Rest yourselves now. Your journey on the morn may not be an easy one..."

A new day dawns after a night spent in the company of centaurs.

The centaurs sample Gunther's dark brew but find it bitter and distasteful. Several stomp their hooves and swish their tails in response to the temperature as well. They're just not used to it. At any rate, they vow to do their best with regard to rallying their brethren in the region and wish the party success and luck!

Taking off, it again becomes quickly obvious that Gunther and Hagus have to lead the formation - the others having only marginal control over these flying beasts. Hissshido, in fact, has the worst time of it and ties himself in to the saddle as securely as possible - hissing complaints all the while.

After flying for approximately an hour, the party passes over the large hill (its about 15-km wide) that rises in the NE corner of the forested valley. From this aerial vantagepoint, several things can be sighted that are of interest. Firstly - there is the white road again. It can be seen leading from the base of the hill, into the surrounding forest, from three different sides. On the east side, the road appears to lead eastward to the clearings beyond the woods' edge and on toward the mountains. Additionally, another white road leads north from the hill's northern edge. It too leads north into the forests and, most likely, continues in that direction toward the mountains as well. Lastly, there is a western white road that leads into the heart of the forest in the direction of the great river to the west.

However, there is something else...

Gunther spots it first. Then, pointing it out, the others can see it as well. Its on the hill, which itself is lightly wooded. There is something glowing, or reflecting, within a small grove of trees near the hill's summit. It’s not possible to make out in detail from this height but there's definitely something down there.

Ziber calls ahead to the others, "What IS that shiny thing? I want a better look!" Awkwardly, he attempts to maneuver his mount in that direction but isn't being too successful.

With most of the party keeping above the treetops, those who fly in to investigate discover something interesting AND ominous.

Beneath the cover of the trees, is a vertical pole with runes carved along its length. It’s not tall - less than 1.5 meters - and has a horizontal plate near the top. Above the plate is a needle pointing at a graduated gauge. Lined up at the base of the pole are ten open pouches of soft greenish leather. These ten small pouches visibly contain large gold coins.

There is also a most foul smell about the area and the reason for it soon becomes obvious as numerous orcish corpses can be seen hanging from nearby trees. Others are impaled on stakes in a cluster nearby as well. Some of these haven’t been dead all that long!

As Hagus takes in the seen, Ziber is able to coax his mount into following that of the bald humanoid. His pinkish nose twitching, the cat's tail puff's up considerably at the sight of the bodies and he begins to emit the familiar low growl.

It is at this time that a figure steps out from the cover of a cluster of trees and brush. It’s humanoid, and female. The woman is large - over two meters high and grossly overweight. Her features are repulsive and she appears unclean and perhaps diseased. Oddly, she wears a dirty blindfold that she removes as she makes her presence known. Smiling, she reveals dark and decayed teeth. Pointing at Hagus, she says with contempt, "YOU want the Key of Justice. To have it, you must solve my riddle." Pointing a meaty finger at the pouches, she spits, "The pouches contain 10 ounce gold crowns but ONE of them has 9 ounce crowns instead. If YOU can find which bag has the lighter coins, in a SINGLE WEIGHING on my scale, the Key to Justice shall be yours!" Laughing, her wide and pimpled breasts jiggle beneath her filthy dress. "I don't think you'll do it though, honey. You don't look too bright." Cackling, she squats and begins to urinate...

Looking down as he tries to control his hovering mount, Hissshido bares his gator-like teeth with a hiss.

The fat woman wiggles her hips, saying, "Wooooooo, wooooo, WOOOO! A college boy!" Watching Gunther for a moment or two, she looks back at him waggling her tongue.

Laughing, she then states, "I KNOW what you're thinking lover. You use the scale ONCE... PERIOD. You Do NOT pick up the bags. But because I'm feeling generous today, you MAY take any number of coins out of any or all of the bags if THAT will help your feeble mind."

"Oh, I almost forgot." she grunts. Reaching up her soiled dress, she appears to pull something from her genital area. Holding it up, the glistening (And I DO mean 'glistening') object appears to be, indeed, another medallion!

Making thrusting motions with her wobbling fat hips, she exclaims, "Guess wrong honey and you are MINE!"

Growling, Ziber lands (Roughly) and begins to untie himself from the saddle. He looks like he means to harm this 'woman'.

Jiggling uncontrollably with mirth, the fat woman can hardly contain herself. Finally, wiping away a tear, she spits, "And YOU are the ones they are counting on to wake them up! Ohhhhhhh... THAT'S a good one!" Again she falls into a wild seizure of laughing. After awhile, she finally calms down, saying, "No, my slow learning little honeys. You get to use the scale ONCE. That means ONE time. That's one more than zero and one LESS than twice. If you plan to place one coin at a time on the damn thing, you'll be done once you weigh the FIRST ONE. If you want to gather a group of coins together and weigh them all at once..." Looking at Gunther, she smiles a rotten toothed grin and speaks very slowly. "That means you could take coins from several or all of the bags and weigh them - together, all at once - if you thought it would help."

Turning around, she faces away from the group, exclaiming, "That's it. Figure it out shit heads."

"What if we just TAKE IT." Ziber growls, while readying his two-hander.

She doesn't even turn around, but simply responds in a carefree giggle, "Back off furball or I'll skin you for my supper."

Backing up Ziber, Flit flies low and in a tight circle over the large woman's head. Spreading his wings in a loud buzzing hum, the gold medallion suddenly vanishes from her hand and reappears in Flit's! Obviously quite satisfied with himself, he shows off his prize to the others.

Enraged, the woman's shape suddenly transforms into that of a large & bipedal giant toad! She (it) still wears the dress but she now brandishes large clawed hands and a fanged maw. YOU'LL PAY FOR THAT!", She croaks. Spinning to face Ziber, she says, "STARTING WITH YOU!!!" As she says this, some blue smoke begins roiling up from the ground near where Ziber stands. His nearby mount takes a few steps back, screeching its loud eagle cry.

Ziber takes a combat stance, growling, "Here I am, bitch."

Hagus' shot misses as the toad woman sprouts very large wings and goes skyward toward Flit!

Not having any true control of his mount, both of Gasgut's shots miss badly as well.

The blue smoke next to Ziber materializes into another one of these large toad beings - except this one has blue flesh! Ziber's tail puffs out and he bares his fangs in a hiss!

Hissshido now begins the laborious task of forcing his mount to the ground. Since he has the most difficulty with control, it is no simple thing - however, he is determined to assist Ziber in combat.

Ziber steps up to battle the blue monster as Flit readies his net!

Blam! Blam! BOTH of Hagus' shots hit the flying she-toad as she closes on Flit! She must be some sort of enchanted creature as the rifle shots, while clearly impacting, do her no real harm. However, the second shot is of spectacular aim (Natural 00 rolled!) - nailing her froggish face directly between the eyes! She is momentarily Stunned!

Flit casts his net over her, causing her to become entangled! The she-toad struggles to remain aloft and begins to drop in wounded-duck fashion...

In great pain from his still serious wounds, Ziber slashes at the flailing creature as it melees with him! They damage each other in the exchange but Ziber fares MUCH worse and, again, is VERY NEAR DEATH. Ziber's sword use inflicts 47 points on the thing but Ziber (After armor) suffers 40 points of damage.

The blue menace roars in pain, as well, but appears to be only more determined to dispatch everyone's favorite fighting cat. To his credit, Ziber does not flinch in the face of his immanent destruction but continues to fight with the pride and dignity that the Kzin are known for.

Flit flies in close to the descending Tangled monster and emits a (Rather weak) Sonic Blast! She is unaffected and the net surrounding her erupts in flame! As it burns, she is able to tear it away and regain her aerial stability just before impacting the ground! It looks like she's not finished with Flit YET!

Hissshido gets himself freed to dismount and fight as Hagus lands nearby. Hissshido goes for his scattergun!

Ziber raises his sword to defend when his mount suddenly rushes past him! With a leap, aided by a couple of flaps from its mighty wings, his griffin attacks the bluish fleshed thing with tooth and claw! Ziber's fighting mount inflicts 59 points of damage on the creature - it is now Seriously Wounded! The thing tries to fight back but is overwhelmed by the griffin’s fury and inflicts no damage in return!

Even though seriously injured and roaring with pain, the blue-skinned monster has the initiative and fights wildly against the onslaught of Ziber's mount. The kzin's griffin suffers 42 points of damage from its claws!

Its fury is short-lived, however, as the griffin’s clawing, biting and raking completely tears it apart - not to mention Ziber's repeated swordblows and Hissshido's scattergun blast after its down! The carnage is horrific!

Nearby, Gasgut lands and begins to dismount - he's got that crazed look again...

Above, Gunther continues to observe in a hover as Flit Heroically escapes his pursuer and manages to grab onto the saddle of his fast flying mount, which quickly lifts him to safety. Frustrated, the slower flying she-toad grins broadly as she sees Hagus closing to within aerial melee range (G.M. NOTE: The two of them WILL be in melee combat next round).

"Come to Mommy!" she bellows.

The airborne she-toad is FAST and furious as she flies to meet Hagus. However, the hairless adventurer Heroically wins the Initiative in the clash! It comes for naught, however, as she deftly avoids the swinging war pick! In fact, she also avoids the slashing vibro-sword of Gunther as well!

Ziber tries to participate, but in the close quarters and buffeting wings, he drops his sword and it falls way back down to the ground! Gasgut can't even get into the fray amidst all the large flying beasts in aerial combat!

The she-toad flays wildly at Hagus' MOUNT but Hagus AGAIN Heroically reigns it to & fro to avoid damage!

Hagus is somehow filled with a rush of FEAR! AGAIN, Hagus Heroically fights back the overwhelming urge to flee this horror and remains locked in combat!

On the ground, Hissshido hisses while looking up & around. His thick tail twitching a bit, he raises it in a quick jog toward the sacks of gold!

Flit continues to cling to his griffin friend as it continues to climb in altitude to safety.

The aerial battle rages as Ziber & mount dive to the ground in an attempt to quickly retrieve his sword! (G.M. NOTE: Ziber can NOT attack next round)

His eyes filled with an unnatural kind of fear (Which he seems only barely able to manage); Hagus tries a tricky stunt in which he reigns up his mount in an attempt to get its claws in to the fight! This results in the flying toad-hag and the griffin becoming locked in a bloody brawl in which the griffin suffers badly. Its attacks against her are without effect and, in fact, it misses SO BADLY with one paw swipe that Hagus is VERY NEARLY thrown from his saddle! Hagus tries to use his enchanted pick but that too misses badly as he struggles to keep control! Hagus' mount suffers 48 points of damage and is seriously wounded!

Rising above her, Gunther strikes down upon her back with his vibro-sword! He smites her froggish hide without effect!

Well above, Flit circles in safety, chirping something about "flying awaaaaaaay!"

Below, Hissshido reaches for the sacks of gold but pauses before touching anything. Looking up at the battle overhead, he looks back down at the gold, then at the scale, all the while stroking his chin in thought. (Gasgut will be able to fight in the air this coming round. He's now tied in and airborne. BOY, does he look pissed.)

Turning his mount to land, Gasgut fires two shots and one of them actually grazes the flying monster - with no effect!

Hagus also turns to fly downward, right behind Ziber.

As Gunther maneuvers to stay above her, the she-toad goes into a dive in pursuit of the others!

Seeing this, Hissshido shakes his head, stops pondering the scale and begins dumping the pouches of coins into one large sack that he carries.

HIGH overhead, Flit holds on to the saddle of his griffin that is flying in a wide looping motion

As Hagus, Ziber and Gasgut land, dismount and take up their combat positions, she follows but spreads her wings to slow her descent. Seeing the various enchanted melee weapons being brandished, she does not land but instead descends to a height that is just above the reach of Ziber's sword.

Glancing over her shoulder at Gunther (Who is still above and behind her – not to mention Flit, who is WAY above and behind her), she licks the griffin blood from her claws. Maintaining her hovering position, she croaks to those below, "The KEY. Return it to me NOW or join the others." She motions a froggish paw toward the slew of orc corpses mounted on stakes nearby.

Looking up only briefly, Hissshido finishes loading up all the gold and then re-secures his sack upon his mount's saddle.

With little prompting, the powerful griffins bolt skyward in a direction away from the flying toad monster - and Hissshido has joined in!

Shrieking curses, she moves at maximum speed in pursuit but the griffins' wing strokes produce even more speed and the party begins to gain distance on her as the chase develops!

Soon, the mounts can be safely steered back on the original course without fear of being intercepted, as she falls further and further behind. Several of the griffins cry out loudly, as if with pride. Eventually, she stops to hurl one last curse before turning back to her hilltop denizen

Within another hour of flight, the hills beyond the great forest's edge can be seen below as the party is flying into 'dwarf' country - at least that's what the centaurs seemed to be saying.

Flying over this area, it is once again Gunther that spots something below! Very near the forest's edge is a clearing - or, at least, the trees in that area are quite thin. Within this area of fields and lightly wooded groves sits a cottage. It’s surrounded by a stone fence and there appear to be numerous carvings or statues scattered about the area around this home in a haphazard fashion.

A lower pass for closer inspection reveals a pretty estate with many singing, multi-colored birds, flowers planted about the cottage and the smell of a cooking fire rising from the stone chimney.

The various statues are all humanoid in design - many of them of dwarvish stature. Although very lifelike, they have no particular artistic nature about them - they certainly aren't posed in heroic fashion or anything that one would expect from a monument of some kind; however, the various songbirds seem to like them, as they are obviously a favorite perch.

Landing near the front entrance to the cottage, Flit hops from the saddle and begins his familiar bobbing stride to the door. Pausing to groom under a wing before knocking, he finally does, calling out, "Hello! Helllloooooooooo... Izzz anybody home? Wezzz come to azzzk about..."

Suddenly, the door swings open and a previously INVISIBLE robed and shrouded figure with weathered green hands casts a large (And previously invisible) net over Flit's small form. Thrashing and squawking in panic, the hapless bird is yanked inside by a pair of powerful green arms.

The door is then slammed shut!

Flit's continued screeching can be heard from inside, along with the sound of a woman's cackling.

There is a very loud squawk of fright from Flit that can be heard by the airborne party members from within the cottage but still the bird does not appear. He does NOT teleport out.

Hissshido starts trying to get his mount to land but the more he kicks its sides and pulls on its reigns, the less control he seems to have!

Flit's high-pitched cries are suddenly muffled, and he can no longer be heard.

Flit's mount pounces on the wooden front door to the cottage, tearing and pawing at it with its mighty claws!

Hissshido has lowered his altitude somewhat but still can't seem to effectively steer his griffin to the ground. Hissing loud curses, he continues to flail about in frustration, finally calling out to the others, "Well, I can't leave him down there! We've got to DO SSSOMETHING!"

From the direction of the cottage is a loud 'snap' and Flit suddenly appears in a window sill near the door, shaking his head and gasping for air – a feather or two drops from one wing as he makes himself seen. Without hesitation, he launches skyward and gains altitude rapidly, his wings being nothing more than a blur as they beat at super-speed!

In his animated 'buzzing' communication, he cries out, "Don't look at her EYEZZZZ, don't look at her EYEZZZ!"

Flit appears to be disoriented and fear-filled.

Hissshido continues to struggle with his mount.

Flying on into the hills, Gunther makes careful note on his map as to the approximate location of the cottage...

After another 30 minutes or so of flying, the party reaches the base of the mountain range that forms the long 'crescent' around the eastern edge of the wooded valley. Scanning the ground for signs of life, there is finally sighted some stonework set high into the side of the foremost mountain. Approaching it, the party can see that this is a monolithic stone ramp-way leading to an incredibly thick and powerful looking walled gate - a gate that seemingly provides entrance into some underground keep within the mountain itself. The doors are stone and have a seamless fit. Actually, there is a blockhouse with a triple portcullis ahead of the stone doors but, from the air, this all within the party's view.

At any rate, the whole place, which is set-up to house and defend a garrison, is deserted. The mountain wind simply whistles and blows through empty ramparts, stairwells and windows.

From this vantagepoint, the party has an excellent view of the surrounding countryside - actually, it’s had it for some time!

There is no sign of 'dwarvish' life in the area!

The griffins seem in need of a rest, and encourage dismounting. Several of them take up 'perches' on the parapets while the others simply lie down, 'sphinx' like in their mannerisms.

Flit seems better now but doesn't have much to say. He flies into the bottom floor of an empty guard tower and begins preening his feathers, occasionally looking around - on alert.

After landing behind the deserted walls, Hissshido unties himself from the saddle and dismounts. Once on his feet, he quickly readies his scattergun and adjusts his ring-mail coif. He can be heard muttering, "I can't believe we ran from a cottage..." as he walks up to the imposing stone doors to examine them more closely.

<as Flit>

Peeking up from under his wing (while preening), Flit looks out of the smallish door (From the tower room into which he earlier flew) and buzzes, "I already told Gunther. I was TRAPPED in a net byzzzz a woman with snakezzz for hairzzz! She has a companion that tried to chokezzz me! MY Forzzze Filed buzzzted the net good and I flewzzz away!" Sitting under his wing a few moments more, he looks back up and declares, "Therezzz only four medallionzzz - not FIVE! And the one to be keepingzzz them is ME!"

<as Hissshido>

Still studying the huge (& nearly seamless) stone doors, Hissshido turns to the others and hisses, "I wonder if the dwarvesss live inside? Exsssept for thessse doorsss, I've notisssed that everything else in thisss fortresss ssseemsss desssigned for sssmaller humanoidsss." Standing there silent for a moment while gripping his scattergun in his gator-like hands, he looks about at the party and then down at the sleeping cat. Turning to Gasgut, he looks at him briefly and then says, "Maybe we can jussst… 'knock' and they'll come out. Anybody have a big hammer?" He begins looking about his person and then removes his heavy flail. Putting down the scattergun, he hefts it a couple of times, saying, "Thisss ssshould do nisssely..."

It’s morning in the abandoned mountain fortress. Flit flies around excitedly; looking for flowers to slurp nectar from. This high up from the forests, though, he returns frustrated and chomps on some of the juicer fruits that the centaurs supplied instead. While his beak busily works his breakfast, Flit's dark bird-eyes dart about nervously - always keeping a wary eye on the party members desiring his golden prizes.

Hissshido's tail flicks back and forth as he walks up a stone stairway to the upper fortifications. He seems to have no interest in the medallions as he gazes down at the forest valley below and toward the sea on the far western horizon.

Upon waking, Ziber seems to have used his mutant powers to heal himself over-night. Ziber has gained 18 points!

<as Flit>

Flit listens while watching the leering gazes of Gunther and Gasgut upon his small-feathered body. After a thoughtful pause, he responds to Hagus' obvious Talent for Negotiation by hopping over to Gunther and giving him the one he found most recently. Then, he gives the centaur's medallion to Gasgut and places the statue's medallion near the sleeping form of Ziber. Flit seems most fond of the first one he captured - taken from the giant's ring. He continues to covet that particular one...

This done, he begins unfolding his 'medicine' pack on the smooth stone floor near Ziber. Flit prepares to perform his own brand of First Aid on the still healing cat.

Seeing that Flit is preparing the type of care that would entail Ziber NOT moving, Hissshido steps forward and hisses, "How long are we ssstaying here? I want to find thisss tree before it diesss." His eyes widening a bit, he adds, "I want Juba'sss treasssure!" The large lizard anxiously drums his gator-fingers on the barrel of his cradled scattergun.

Another day passes as Flit tends to Ziber and the two wounded griffins. The griffins seem content to lie about and let Flit do his thing. Several of them, however, go hunting and return with a few deer for their dinner!

The next morning finds the griffins at 100% health AND they seem to have formed some kind of birdish 'bond' with Flit.

Additionally, Ziber has regained another 15 hit points and is nearly at full health!

As he examines the massive stone doors leading into the mountainside, Hagus is stumped at how to open them. Searching for secret levers, movable stones, etc. all proves fruitless and force certainly does NOT work.

In his head-bobbing walk, Flit approaches the group and stands near Hagus to observe his efforts. Having a tendency to hum songs to himself, the bird is a bit distracting to the hairless humanoid but Hagus is able to proceed nonetheless. Seeing that there isn't much success in this endeavor, Flit begins hopping from one foot to the other, expressing his impatience with the process.

Finally, unable to contain himself any longer, Flit speaks, "You know, I could Teleportzzz myself to the other side! I wonder how thick thozzze doorzzz are..." Taking off his gear, he begins to spread his belongings out near the party. "Will any of this help?"

Flit's stuff consists of a damaged (And useless) auto-pistol, a hemp rope, a glow cube, 2 oil flasks, a steel mirror and seven auto-pistol clips (One is empty). He also, of course, has his ring-mail armor, utility harness and camouflage cloak but this stays with him, as well as his 300 domars and single gold medallion.

Having displayed his items, Flit takes off to fly about the stone towers in a carefree manner...

Hissshido takes a long draw from his dark leather waterskin - gulping loudly but saying nothing.

<as Hissshido>

As Gunther activates his ancient vibro-sword, Hissshido steps up to speak. "I sssugesssted 'knocking' a few daysss ago. If our purpossse isss to sssomehow recruit thessse 'dwarfsss', then damaging and defasssing their ssstoneworksss ssseemsss foolisssh." The mutant komodo looks at all those gathered and nods thoughtfully, asking, "Remember the one calling himssself Pepo? Sssomething tellsss me we ssshould not have angered him ssso. In sssearching for cluesss AND help here, we mussstn't be too hasssty. I agree with the cat. There'sss too much russshing and not enough planning - not enough THINKING."

Placing his hands behind his wide back, Hissshido begins to pace as he speaks, "Now," he hisses, "what do we KNOW? We know about the esssistenssse of the dwarfesss from the centaursss. We asssume there ARE dwarfesss. We know, according to the centaursss, that thessse 'dwarfsss' will fight Moorkroft IF properly rallied. We WANT to fight the wizssard, right? What elssse do we know, eh? We know that they do not ussse thisss plassse in any way. If the centaursss are aware of them, then there mussst be sssome dwelling above ground in thisss area OR there is another entranssse to an underground realm that IS being usssed with sssome regularity - OR they occasssionally make foraysss to the sssurfassse from sssome plassse to the south and interact with the centaursss that way. Thisss all asssumesss that they DO live underground. The centaursss mentioned nothing about that. I sssay that before we do

anything that could be regarded as disssressspectful, we take Hagusss' sssugestion and at leassst explore thessse mountainsss from the air firssst. Thisss isss what I sssay."

Turning to his mount, Hissshido begins the process of saddling up. The other griffins glide down from their perches or simply walk nearer, depending on where they were - expecting to be mounted as well.

Hissshido calls out, "Come on Gunther..."

It actually doesn't take long for the party to sight what they've been after. Moving deeper into the mountain range, a craggy valley is soon discovered to contain what appears to be a mining village!

Flying lower, the party can see that it is indeed populated by short and stocky humanoids - bearded for the most part. Once the flying group is sighted, most of them stop their work and look up at the incoming strangers. A few males pick up nearby crossbows, spears and axes in a quasi-defensive stance.

The village is definitely Tech II level technology and the simple homes probably house roughly 200 of these hardy mountain folk.

There are homes, an obvious mine, a corral holding different kinds of animals from pack beasts to mountain goats and there are various buildings for working such as a tanner, butcher/food storage and various metal working areas.

This can all be seen clearly as the group descends.

Additionally, rough trails lead away from the community in three directions, indicating possible trade routes through the mountains and down into the valley.

As the village folk begin massing toward the landed griffins, a stout figure emerges from their group. It’s an aged dwarf with a long white beard. He wears an Exquisite suit of platemail covered by a black hooded cloak. He sports a finely crafted war hammer on his belt.

This figure breaks from the pack and boldly approaches the party, his short black cape blowing in the mountain breeze. Stopping a few meters from the griffins & riders, he surveys the party with a subdued but somewhat arrogant 'look'. In fact, as he cranes his stubby neck to look over everyone's gear and weapons, his expression turns to one of disdain and quite obvious DIS-like for the 'outsiders'.

Behind him, the armed males begin inching forward with weapons at the ready, although they remain at least 30 meters from the party still...

Finally, the white bearded dwarf raises his round nose a bit and huffs; "I ALONE speak for this clan." Turning back to the village folk, he waves a short arm, exclaiming, "Look! I TOLD you they would come! MORE Outsiders to defile and curse the land!"

Turning back to the party, he says, "Leave us or we will destroy you now. If you wish council, then I DEMAND tribute!"

A number of the armed dwarves behind him show encouragement by rattling their weapons and shields.

Flit looks over at Hagus and then back at the old dwarf - then back at Hagus and then back again at the old dwarf.

Hissshido just hisses.

As Ziber makes his declaration and holds up the medallion, the well-groomed cat's words are evidently impressive to the crowd. The dwarven people look at each other with nods and raised eyebrows, followed by hushed but enthusiastic chatter.

Hagus' Talent for Negotiation again bears fruit as the dwarfish leader greedily accepts the ten gold coins with a grin. Having difficulty pulling his eyes from Hagus' fine shield, he declares, "I am Berronar, son of Dugmaren. The warriors of Tor Mogus pledge allegiance to your cause. If the centaurs will do battle, then so will WE. You ride Rahna's steeds, and so it seems that the legend is indeed coming to pass."

Grasping his war hammer, he raises it over his head and turns to yell at those behind him, "Sound the CALL to arms and carry it to all!"

Facing the party with an intense and proud stare (That STILL doesn't look very friendly), he says, "Come among us now. We wish to hear of your travels and what brought you to our land. Our craftsmen would examine your strange metalworks. We will FEAST TONIGHT!"

Turning back toward the village, he waves a stubby hand for the party to follow and the crowd begins parting to make way.

"Hmmm..." Hissshido mutters in a low komodo voice.

As night falls, the party is treated to a great feast put on by the brooding and arrogant Berronar. While the clan leader keeps his distance from the party members (Being content to study them from a distance), the many townsfolk are quite taken with the newcomers and shower the group with hospitality.

Ale flows freely and large cuts of pork and mutton are boiled in great pots and roasted over smoky fires. Many kinds of nuts, breads and fruits are prepared as well and there is plenty for all. These dwarves seem a merry sort - at least once the drinking begins in earnest - and they quickly take up song and dancing, accompanied by the playing of drums, pipes and stringed instruments.

As the evening progresses, the dwarves question the party at length about their background, their homes, how they came to be here, etc. The heroes’ high-tech weaponry and gear - especially some of Gunther’s items, awe them. They are also quite convinced the party's arrival signals the fruition of a legendary prophecy concerning the 'sleeping elves' and a return to happier times.

Since the party naturally has questions too, there is a certain amount of new information that the group learns simply from conversing with the dwarves over the course of the feast.

1) Moorkroft IV is not nearly as powerful as his great grandfather was. His orcish forces resent being kept (For the most part) out of the heart of the valley. In fact, their number has substantially decreased over the years due to major inter-tribal conflicts. Moorkroft doesn't tend to his forces as he should either, spending most of his time in the Tower of Light - where he is rumored to be seeking the secrets of eternal life. It is said that this is somehow tied to certain 'special' trees throughout the valley and that the orcs are largely kept out because of their destructive nature.

In fact, the notion that the old elven fortress remains standing at all has angered many generations of orcish generals.

2) The dwarves are aware of sizable herds of semi-intelligent unicorns near the lake to the west, but never interact with them. It is said that they fought along-side elvish forces in the distant past.

3) The party meets an interesting dwarf named Domurry who, evidently, has the powers of 'majik' himself, though not to the extent of Moorkroft by any means. He mentions that he has a brother - Crube Collie - who was able to make the journey to a far-away place called 'New City', where he supposedly owns a famous tavern, has an elven wife and two 'dwelf' children. He is disappointed to learn that none of the adventuring party members can give him any news of his far-away brother.

4) Berronar has a son, Broggmar, who also appears to be a capable warrior. He is much warmer toward the party and even offers to personally journey high into the mountains in the hope of enlisting even more aid for a battle with Moorkroft. There are, it seems, a species of truly GIANT eagles, known as rocs, that dwell there. He claims to be able to communicate with them and swears that they hate Moorkroft because his flying henchmen come to steel their eggs - evidently for use in his strange experiments. They also come under some occasional harassment from a black dragon that the evil one controls, although it is rarely seen and no one knows of its lair.

Broggmar loves and respects his father but feels that the old dwarf is too cautious and protective of the clan. While personally brave to the point of foolhardiness, Berronar, he says, truly wishes to avoid a battle if possible. However, he assures the group that messengers have already been sent to the other clans calling for the raising of an army to march on Moorkroft.

5) The mobilization of the dwarves (Not to mention the centaurs) will NOT go unnoticed by Moorkroft's minions. It should be expected that he would bring his forces into the forest and prepare them to win a decisive victory against this rebellion. Overall, the older and more experienced dwarves are skeptical of the chances for victory - despite prophecy and the party's obvious superior technology and mutant powers.

The dwarves say it will take 3 days to ready for the march south and then 5 days to be in position for battle. They feel it will take Moorkroft's forces somewhat less time to be in place. They are ANXIOUS to hear any specific plan the party might have about the conduct of this coming conflict.

6) The old woman with the greened flesh and snake-hair (As Flit described) is a legendary figure and said to be immortal - at least she'll never succumb to natural causes, it is told. The legends say she is doomed, by an elven curse, to spend eternity in her hideous form. She was once a powerful elvish druid and the famous 'painted' griffins that the party rides were, according to legend, given her as a gift by the Great Moorkroft I - they were secret lovers and she committed treason upon her people in this union. It is said that her misery has driven her insane but numerous brave souls have tried to end her suffering (And thereby gain her rumored TREASURE), only to wind up turned to stone by the sight of her horrific GAZE.

It is suggested by more than one dwarf that she may possess powerful enchanted items that could be helpful in the coming fight and if ANYONE could destroy the menacing woman once and for all, it would be this group of extraordinary heroes!

7) The abandoned fortifications, in which the party spent the last several days and nights, are known as the King's Hall. It was sealed shut by Moorkroft I and can not be opened until his line is severed - i.e. Moorkroft IV DIES. It is a most sacred place to all dwarves and they keep pretty tight-lipped about what lies behind those stone doors.

Having been quartered for the night, the party rises to find the dwarven community busily preparing for war. Enhanced training, drilling and weapons practice is being conducted while engineers talk over drawings of siege equipment.

Broggmar says a brief farewell as he hoists his traveling pack and climbing gear, accompanied by 5 of his fellows. "I go now to speak with the rocs", he says as he turns to leave on his tough trek.

Distantly, great horns can be heard blowing as the other mountain clans announce their intentions.

From his second story window, old Berronar looks down upon his people, and the party.

<as Hissshido>

Hissshido, hearing Hagus' thoughts, offers, "I sssee no reassson to chassse unicornsss. Let the sssentaursss find them. How would we communicate anyhow? I sssay we kill-sssnake hair and sssee what ssshe hasss that could help usss - jussst like thessse dwarfsss sssay. Then we can find the sssentaursss and tell them what'sss transsspired."

Flit preens his feathers atop a nearby wagon.

<as Hissshido>

The armored komodo responds to the others, saying, "I ssstill sssupport the idea of ssslaying thisss vile creature. There hasss been much ssspoken of 'dessstiny', of 'legend' and of 'fate'. I'm beginning to believe it myssself. I don't underssstand how thisss can be happening but it doesss ssseem to be, doesssn't it, hmmm? Sssoundsss a bit crazsssy, I know, but I can't believe we ssstumbled upon that cottage by chanssse. Perhapsss our mountsss intentionally lead usss there. Thessse people sssay that our griffinsss, our 'painted griffinsss', have lived sssinssse the time of Moorkroft I & that they usssed to be her petsss. I can't believe that. No, what I think isss sssomeone or sssomething isss 'painting' new generationsss of them in antisssipation of sssomething... sssomething 'big' happening here. I'm not ssso sssure everything thessse dwarvesss sssay isss all that accurate. They don't ssseem to get out of the mountainsss much. I've had a chanssse to talk with a few of them."

Thinking for a second or two, he says, "Their leadersss ssseem to think that with all their clansss, and thossse of the centaursss, the overall troop ssstrength on both sssides isss roughly equal. Again, I'm not ssso sssure. Gasssgut hasss a good point about giantsss and wyvernsss. What if thisss 'black dragon' isss there? And what of our enemy, fat lady jussstissse? Don't forget about Moorkroft'sss griffinsss either. And thossse empty sssuitsss of armor might be fighting too - who really knowsss? If the centaursss have desssided to fight, they will want to win asss badly asss anyone elssse." Turning to Hagus, he says, "They know thisss valley well.

Itsss their home. Let them locate the unicornsss. If they're to be found at all, and sssomehow persssaded to act asss independent cavalry, then it will be the centaursss who will do it. I'm sssure of that."

Finally, waiving his lizard hands, he exclaims, "And another thing. If thisss sssorcerer, Moorkroft, isss ssso powerful, we hasssn't he come after usss already, eh? The one thing thesss dwarfsss sssay that makesss sssenssse to me is the notion that he'sss holed up in that cassstle - obsssesssed with sssome kind of resssearch. Perhappps there'sss a way to ssstrike before thisss 'battle' ever takesss plassse!. Wait a minute. Isss there a Misssusss Moorkroft? There mussst have been a Misssusss Moorkroft III... right?"

Hissshido looks around at everyone. Shrugging, he says, "Perhapsss if we are sssuccesssful with sssnake-hair, ol' Berronar will warm up a bit to usss. We need ALL THE HELP WE CAN GET! If not for Juba'sss treasssure, then jussst to make it out of here alive..."

As Ziber, Hagus, Flit & Hissshido listen to Gasgut, they note that Gunther has wandered off repeatedly over the past hour or so - returning infrequently to say a bit or listen quietly.

Having strolled off again, the blonde human says something to Hagus and then HAGUS wanders off.

Flit's bird eyes blink as he watches Hagus walk off and turn the corner.

Nearby, some dwarvish children toss food scraps to the party's resting griffins - lying in the shade of an open-air pavilion...

Flit's fine-feathered head cocks to one side slightly as he listens to Hagus - his bird-eyes occasionally blinking.

Hissshido hisses in a low voice, "Well done! If everything that the conjurer told you isss true, then we now HAVE sssome needed help. Of courssse, we'll have to take our chansssesss but I like them better if we could control animalsss - like Mookroft'sss griffonsss? And clairvoyance - who knowsss what the range isss, but if we're clossse enough, and it worksss as promisssed, we could sssee inssside that sssnake-hairsss houssse, or even the Tower of Light! VERY USSSEFULL!"

He doesn't comment on the other two potions or the scroll but, noticing Hagus' new studded leather armor under his cloak, he extends a lizard finger to touch it and breathes, "Nice..."

With great struggle (As usual) Hissshido manages to get his uncooperative griffin airborne. Flit has less trouble but also has a difficult time with control.

However, the two of them draw a crowd of on-lookers (Especially the dwarvish children) as they rise over the village in flight. In a wide and wobbly circle, they pass over the rooftops before pointing their mounts in the general direction of the forested valley. After a short while, they begin slowly flying off.

In the streets, a number of dwarves raise tankards, tools and weapons in a farewell salute. Nearby, a small guard of warriors eyes the remaining party members with slight curiosity before turning and walking off.

After about an hour of flight, the now familiar cottage is again sighted. As the party circles high overhead, Hissshido calls out loudly, "OK - the word thisss time isss "BLASSSTER".

With that, he begins trying to force his griffin to the ground. This is a long and difficult task for the brave lizard as he just isn't very good at managing the flying beast. At least he doesn't have to fight in the air, as that WOULD be a disaster.

Flit tries to direct his mount to fly alongside Hissshido's. Together, they ultimately manage to land. Hissshido lands in the front of the cottage and dismounts there. Flit, however, lands his griffin on the roof and hops off.

Ziber follows the lead of Hisshido and Flit, trailing them closely. Before his descent, however, he turns to Gunther, saying, "You'd betterrr back us up."

Ziber lands his griffin behind the cottage, near the small wooden structure that is either an outhouse or storage shack, or both. Upon dismounting, he leaves his rifle on the ground and readies his two flintlock pistols.

On the rooftop, Flit walks to the edge (Just over the front door) and looks down as he readies his polished steel mirror.

Hissshido leaves his scattergun in its sling. Instead, he readies his flail & med. metal shield. Striding up to the door, he raps upon it loudly with his weapon, calling out thusly, "Come forth 'Rahna'. Your time hasss come! We are the gatherersss of the Keysss and today you will be releasssed from your curssse. Today you DIE! Ssshow yourssself, cursssed witch!"

Seeing that there is no answer, Hissshido takes a step back and then has at the cottage door with a hefty booted kick! The door smashes open and Hissshido, with shield raised, begins moving forward.

As Gasgut comes in for a landing (Just behind the others - except for Gunther), Hissshido is staggered back out of the doorway by a Surprise attack! The battling lizard is bowled over by an overwhelming invisible being. The two of them roll in the dust near the front door and Hissshido suffers 30 points of damage from powerful twisting wrestling moves. Whatever he's locked in combat with, it’s obviously MUCH larger, very strong and - of course - invisible!

The door to the cottage begins closing again.

Hissshido's mount lowers in head and lets out a battle screech but hesitates to join in the fray, as it can't see what to attack.

With lightning Initiative, the invisible monster continues to wrestle Hissshido near the front of the cottage. Thrashing violently, Hissshido is quickly subdued with a crushing blow of some kind - Hissshido takes 30 points of damage! Hissshido suffers a Critical Injury! Hissshido collapses into a Coma! There is a roar of pain as well from the invisible attacker and dust flies from the area where they fight!

Flit dives and flaps about, buzzing LOUDLY in a vain attempt to Distract Hissshido's invisible foe!

Hagus and Gasgut join in the melee! Hagus' deadly pick can't find the unseen target but Gasgut's Enraged Assault is awesome - Gasgut's sword hits the Invisible mauler for 110 points of damage and its large form can be heard hitting the ground, kicking up more dust. Its still lives but from the looks of the impact and the sounds that follow, it is obviously VERY hurt.

Some kind of overwhelming Battle Fury has again consumed Gasgut. It’s quite frightening to behold and doesn't look too controllable.

Slashing wild, Gasgut hits the invisible being for another 44 points of damage! It cries out in a monstrous moan - appearing stunned and grievously injured.

Hagus' swinging pick again fails to hit home as Flit frantically flies low overhead, holding out that mirror in fear.

Suddenly, Gasgut is attacked from behind - it’s the medusa! Appearing out of nowhere, she slashes to & fro with a short sword, narrowly missing the bean-eating battler!

Hagus' eyes meet with her HORRIBLE GAZE! His Mental Strength is insufficient to avert his eyes and he is able to do so just in time, only with Heroic effort!

Ziber remains behind the cottage and Gunther continues to hover above.

Gasgut relentlessly attacks the fallen monster, striking it again! There is an agonizing wail followed by a rush of wind. It appears to be simply... gone!

Meanwhile, Hagus does battle with the ferocious medusa! Hagus' pick nicks her for 20 points of damage! Having pulled a dagger with her left hand, she fights Hagus closely with sword, dagger and her hair – which bites and snaps at Hagus as well!

Hagus suffers a minor 5 points of damage from her sword but his shield prevents damage from her dagger and hair!

With nothing to fight, the Gasgut’s bloodlust turns to face the medusa. Gasgut meets her HORRIBLE GAZE! Gasgut Heroically averts his eyes before being turned to stone!

Flit flies in low, just out of reach of her snake-hair. Holding out the mirror, he buzzes loudly, "Look up herezzz!"

With a quick and nimble move, the medusa throws her weapons at Hagus as Gasgut moves up to fight! Simultaneously, she takes a step back and (In a split-second) touches a ring on her left hand and turns Invisible again!

Hagus and Gasgut try to hit her as she flees but are inhibited by a rather clumsy drop in altitude on Flit's part.

It appears she's run away a short distance and, at present, it’s not possible to tell exactly where she is...

"Izzz juzzzst trying to help!" squawks Flit, to the frustrated warriors.

Gasgut snaps his head toward the bird in a rage and raises his sword to strike when he suddenly pauses. Extending his arms, he cocks his head back and yells out a yell before slowly regaining his composure.

About this time, Ziber’s head pokes around the corner of the cottage. Crouched low with his fur standing up, he looks around cautiously - his nose twitching and one ear swiveling a bit.

His hummingbird wings a blur, Flit turns and flies to land on the ground near Hissshido. Checking him quickly, he looks up and says, "Hezzzz still alive but thizzz lookzzz baaaad!"

Ziber looks around then bolts over to Hissshido and begins dragging him inside. Flit follows along in his head-bobbing walk - after picking up Hissshido's dropped flail.

As they move through the front door, Ziber says to Flit, "Be surrre to close all the shutterrrs..."

Leaving the griffins outside, the party takes refuge in the griffin’s cottage.

Flit is very worried about Hissshido. He just shakes his bird head as he raises the lizard's eyelids - revealing rolled back eyes in the light of the glowcube. "Hezzz needzzz a miracle..." buzzes Flit in a low tone.

As the party looks around, Ziber says to Hagus, "We COULD track herrr, you know. I'm surrre you could do it if you trrried." His pinkish nose twitches as he sniffs about...

The search reveals that the cottage has two rooms and is sparsely furnished. The main chamber has a sofa, chair, table & two smaller chairs, a small cabinet with cooking & eating utensils, a food prep & storage area (From which the party CAN restock its rations), a fireplace (With wood & and axe nearby) and a side room - this is a simple bedroom with practically nothing in it of interest.

Both rooms are lantern lit with a fairly low level of light.

The two (2) main items of interest are as follows:

1) In the main room is a large, standing closet. Inside, is a crossbow with 30 quarrels, a hunting knife, flint & steel, pen & ink, a LARGE old leather-backed book, a set of keys (quickly discovered to be keys to the cottage, etc.), whiskey and several mugs, a golden sickle, a golden torque and a polished yet gnarled staff of dark wood.

2) In the bedroom is a door that opens into a narrow stair leading down into a dark cellar or basement of some sort.

<as NPCs>

Ziber responds to Hagus, saying, "I think we should find herrr. Prey should neverrr be allowed to escape. Besides, there may be a secret entrance out therrre that leads back into that cellar. Forrr all we know, she could be beneath us NOW." Ziber then begins quickly grooming the fur on his left paw with his tongue.

Standing on the floor near Hissshido, Flit looks up at everyone and says, "At least getzzz him on her bed. I'm not sure, but I don't thinkzzz he'zzz can wake up on his own. My bezzzst guess... I think he can survivezzz for maybe five dayzzz or so like this. Some thingzzz I can try, yezzz, if I stayzzze with him."

Flit then flies up and lands on the table top to better address everyone. "Hagus sayzzz take him to the dwarvezzz. Moving him now izzz very risky, BUT they may have zzzome kind of cleric. You know - like dabber Ploth! Otherwizzze, I must stayzzze with him."

With his wings folded back, Flit places his small hands on his 'hips' (His drumsticks, basically) and looks at everyone. His bird-eyes blink once.

<as NPCs>

Flit stands on the table humming to himself as Hagus & Gunther ramble on.

From the bedroom, Ziber can be heard dragging Hissshido onto the bed with a great 'heave'. Coming back out, he walks over to her cupboards and begins rummaging through her food supply mumbling something about fish.

As Gunther finally finishes, Ziber stops chewing and his ears perk up. Raising a furry finger, he asks, "Did anyone hearrr that?" Taking quick steps, he strides back into the bedroom and then looks out the door, saying, "Its Hissshido. He's moving!"

"It'zzz a miracle!", buzzes Flit.

Checking on him, the party soon discovers that Hissshido has 'come to' in some inexplicable way. He's badly injured but capable of speech and travel. Perhaps Gunther's Heroic plea helped...

It must have!

"Oh, my head hurtsss", moans Hissshido.

Hissshido sits up on the bed with great strain, all the while holding his head with a grimace.

Flit walks up to his bedside and watches him.

Ziber walks over to the narrow stair that leads down to the cellar. Looking at Hagus, he waves a paw toward the passage and says, "Afterrr you."

OK then, with Gunther & Gasgut staying up top, and Hissshido still too weak to move, Hagus moves down the stairs with Ziber & Flit behind him.

Searching diligently, he finds no traps on the stairs and the three of them make their way down to the bottom...

Nearing the base of the stairs, Flit also lights his glow cube. The three of them enter into a small chamber with stone walls, ceiling & floor. The room has a 'shrine' type feel about it as there are candles everywhere (not currently lit) and a pedestal with a white cloth on one side of the room. On this pedestal are the lifelike statues of 2 young children cowering in fear. The statues are dressed in real clothes and there is a feather duster near them.

Looking about, the 3 brave explorers notice nothing else of interest here.

Those safely upstairs hear the sound of a grating stone and something being moved.

<as Flit>

Flit head-bob walks up and looks up at Hagus and then over at the now kneeling Gunther. Looking from one back to the other, he blinks once and buzzes, "Why not try one of thozzze keyzzz we found up stairzzz, huh?"

Flit steps up, looks at the lock and then at the keys. Carefully selecting one, he turns in the lock and opens the chest.

Looking in, he spies its contents and begins pulling things out. First of all, he finds a very fine silver locket with a Tech II engraving on it. Inside is the perfect 3-D lifelike image of a bearded, well-groomed man in a purple cape. He has a piercing & mysterious gaze. Flit also recovers a sack of gold coins - over 700 and a golden goblet set with gemstones! On the bottom of the chest are many children's toys and articles of children's clothing. Beneath of all that is yet another of the golden medallions! Gunther believes it to represent the month of 'November'.

Assuming everyone continues to search (Especially Hagus), there is nothing else of interest located down here.

Ziber's ears perk up at Hagus' suggestion. In response, the battlecat says, "Yesss... let's go get herrr. Without her weapons & food, she can't travel farrr."

Rising dizzily to his feet, Hissshido hisses, "Yeah, that isss, unlesss she'sss taken one of the griffonsss..."

Flit's head snaps around and he gulps hard - his bird-eyes blinking as he looks about.

Hissshido lets out a low deep hiss and slowly begins gathering up his gear. The mutant komodo is quite obviously suffering a great deal of Pain. Checking his scattergun, he piles up his other gear and weapons on the bed so as not to have to carry anything else.

Stretching his back a bit, with a grimace, he turns and begins moving toward the front door. Pausing, he says, "The bird and the cat ssshould remain behind. We don't want her sssneaking back in. Asss for me... it'sss persssonal."

Hissshido opens the front door and looks outside, his eyes narrowing as he scans the area in the front of the cottage.

Ziber reaches out a paw and places it on Hagus' shoulder, saying, "What is to be gained by this act? If those stone figures are herrr offspring, then how will rrreviving them help? Can she care for them now? Can WE?"

Looking to Gunther, the battle cat offers this - "Perrrhaps mentioning to herrr that we CAN do it would be a bargaining chip of some kind. Maybe she would join our forces in the coming battle in exchange for knowing herrr children can live out theirrr lives. Orrr... perrrhaps she would trade that rrring, eh?"

There is a slight twinkle in Ziber's cat's eye...

But Hissshido is having none of it. "Ussslesss talk. We all know what hasss to be done. Let'sss go."

To make certain she doesn't sneak back in, Ziber grabs some of Flit's flour and spreads it out on the floor in front of both doors. Then he takes up a position inside to watch for her approaching from either direction.

The rest of the party sets out to track her...

Moving from the scene of the scuffle, Hagus studies the ground carefully and points out the direction she moved in. However, he soon looses her trail and pauses to re-asses. It’s at this time, that her voice comes from the still air nearby. "Sooooo... the 'Gatherers of the Keys' are both thieves AND killers. Since you've no doubt plundered my home, leave now with your ill-gotten gains and begone. There is no need to add murder to your list of crimes and you'll find me a hard catch to snare. Leave me in peace!"

Hissshido clutches his scattergun and hisses

From her unseen position, the medusa responds, saying, "You lie, thief."

There is a pause, accompanied by what sounds like a muffled sob. Then the invisible medusa says, "Restore them... IF you can." There is a longer pause and she says, "If I can touch their flesh once again, if... I can... hold them, once again. If I can DO this, I will believe you are who you claim. You will have an ally in your quest."

Hissshido leans over and quietly hisses something to Hagus.

Hissshido just looks at Hagus & Gunther with a wry (Slightly tooth exposed) smile but doesn't resist Hagus' hand on his weapon for now.

Moving cautiously back into the cottage, the party rejoins the vigilant Ziber (Whose furs are standing on end in the presence of the invisible monstrosity).

While the others wait, Gunther descends the stairs alone...

When he re-emerges a few minutes later with two elvish children (Looking frightened and confused but otherwise healthy!), there is shriek, followed by uncontrollable laughter and sobbing from their cursed mother.

The children look up and look around with wide fear-filled eyes as they take in the bizarre seen around them. Then, they too begin crying - its all Gunther can do to hold on to their hands and keep them from fleeing out the door!

Suddenly, the medusa speaks. "You must leave us now. I face a great challenge that I can only meet alone. You have given me a second chance with them and for that I am grateful. Whether or not my curse be lifted, I am indebted to you and... here... take this..."

A finely crafted jeweled ring is tossed onto the floor at Gunther's feet. "Use it to summon the Servant when in need but beware... he does not come willingly."

There is a pause while the children cry and then she says, "You, hairless one - look at the stars tonight. They will tell you where the remaining keys are. The keys will open the Lost Sanctuary. It lies to the west, at the convergence of the four roads, near the river. That is where you must use the keys. You will have to penetrate to the Heart of the Sanctuary and use the Tablets to enter the Head."

Again the rampant terror-cries of the children cause her to pause before saying, "Please do not question me further on these matters as I have revealed too much already. If you are to fulfill the prophecy, you must reason these things out ON YOUR OWN. Now please, leave us... I have much to do."

The invisible medusa ignores Gasgut's questions and doesn't seem to care that the party has appropriated her valuables. Instead, she remains focused on her confused & frightened children. There is no farewell as the party quietly departs...

Taking flight, Ziber suggests finding this 'place for the keys'. Using her information as a guide, the party flies westward - giving the 'justice hag's' large hill a very wide berth. After about an hour & a half, the sight is located. Very near the large river that runs down from the mountains and through the woods, four white stone roads can be seen coming together. In fact, there is a beautiful white stone bridge that connects the northern road to the other three (The intersection is on the south side of the river).

Flying lower, the party can see through the thick tree cover and it is soon obvious that there was once a city here. Looking down through the treetops, it is seen that the entire area holds endless overgrown ruins. In most of the available space, between what must have been gorgeous buildings, oaks, bushes and other forest plant life have grown, giving the region a feeling of lonely desolation.

Landing, the party discovers a large platform at the intersection of the four roads. It’s formed into a set of concentric steps and is made entirely of crystal! There are also four crumbled crystal pillars on the platform as well. It appears that their purpose was to hold a small crystal dome that has since crashed around the platform.

The white stone roads lead north, south, east & west from this crystal ruin (The northern road, of course, bridging the river). At the beginning of each road, a metal slab is embedded, now covered with rust and dirt. There is writing on them that Gunther is able to study and, apparently, read.

Lastly, there are 12 slight depressions formed into a circle in the center of the crystal platform. Filled with dirt, twigs, etc. the party probably wouldn't have noticed them had not the medusa mentioned that the medallions are to be somehow used here.

Its decided that this would be a good place to spend the night so that Hagus can discover what she meant about the 'stars'.

As night falls, the party's campfire light causes eerie shadows to play throughout the ruined structures nearby. Suddenly having a funny expression on his face (As if hearing something or other) Hagus mounts up and takes flight into the night sky.

<as Hissshido>

Hissshido takes a break from his eating. It seems the lizard has a HUGE appetite tonight and is really going through a lot of rations - and water!

As Hagus lands and speaks, Hissshido listens thoughtfully as pieces of jerky fall from his toothy maw. With a shrug, he suggests, "We already gather the dwarvesss and centaursss. It will take daysss for them to asssemble and I sssee no way to hasssten that. Go back to the centaursss, we could... or... keep gathering thessse keysss. If we can retrieve the ressst, perhapsss we can learn more that will help usss or even gain another ally. Waiting ssseems like a wassste of time and TIME isss in ssshort sssupply."

Kicking back on his bedroll, the komodo lets out a hearty belch and closes his eyes. Taking a few slowing breaths, he appears readying for sleep. Before he dozes off, though, he says (With his eyes still closed), "It hasss been sssaid that I act with hassste, such as one who isss 'foolhardy', 'rassh' or of feeble mind. Thessse judgementsss are asss raindropsss to a pond. I am alwaysss in the right place at the right time."

Ziber swivels one ear a bit toward Hissshido. Then, with a great fang exposed

yawn, he arches his back, turns around on all fours several times and settles

down into a comfortable sleep.

There seem to be some night crickets about.

The next morning, the party takes flight at dawn with (As usual) Hagus & Gunther's mounts leading the formation.

Clearing the treetops, Hagus' first target location is clearly visible. It’s a large hill (Roughly 15 km across) that rises above the forest about 25 km to the west.

Leaving the crossroads and ruined city behind, it takes less than an hour to reach a point just above the hill's high summit. It is at this time that something is spotted below. Gunther sees them first...

They are three winged beasts - monsters of some kind! They have lion like bodies, not unlike those of the griffins, but have bat-type wings (Much like Lassiter had) and grotesque mannish heads (Although larger than a human). They also have large clusters of spikes on their long cat-like tails.

These three beasts look powerful and fierce but are slightly smaller than the griffins and definitely do not fly as fast. (G.M. NOTE: They CAN outmaneuver - easily so - griffins controlled by Gasgut, Ziber, Hissshido and (For the most part) Flit.)

As the approach in a rapid wing-beating climb, they yell out disturbing 'battle cries, yells and loud guttural sounds.

Hagus pulls up and fires as the monsters close! CRACK! He hits one for 34 points of damage! Its Stunned! The other two close to within about 10 meters and slow to a virtual halt.

Hissshido tries to draw his scattergun but can't!

Ziber tries to draw his spear but can't!

Gasgut draws his sword and readies for melee!

(G.M. NOTE: Its a matter of Initiative now...)

With the Initiative, the two closest manticores whip their long tails forward and release a cluster of spikes from the clumps on their tails! Like some sort of medieval seige engine, each of them flings 6 sharp spikes from its tail with tremendous force and accuracy - one targeting Hagus & the other Ziber!

Ziber's griffon screeches as it suffers 28 points of damage! Ziber is hit by multiple spikes! Ziber's ringmail stops 20 points but the battle cat suffers 76 points of damage! Ziber is Impaled! Ziber will be taking Progressive Damage!

Hagus' new armor is amazingly effective as the hairless mutant suffers only 21 points of damage from several hits! However, his mount fairs worse - suffering 42 points of damage. One spike hits Hagus' griffon in the head, causing it to rear back violently, knocking Hagus' rifle from his hands! Hagus' prized weapon plummets earthward, crashing through tree branches on its way to the ground. Hagus' mount screeches in pain!

The third manticore spends the round Stunned but is shaking off the effects and can still fight. It remains about 25 meters away, but WELL within the BR of those aweful spikes...

Gasgut indeed has much better control of his mount now! He closes a bit and fires! The blast hits one of the agile manticores for 40 points of damage! It's Knocked Back and Stunned! "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!", it roars in pain! Drawing his terrible sword, Gasgut prepares to engage it in melee!

Having his usual problems with controlling his mount, Hissshido again tries to get at his scattergun, but can't do it and still hold on!

Fighting for control, Ziber paws at the spike embedded in his belly while trying to hold onto the reigns. Its a desperate struggle for life!

Going BESERK, Gasgut thrusts his sword into the heart of the shotgun-wounded manticore. Screaming with rage, Gasgut's voice drowns out the monster's death cry as it falls earthward.

With stunning speed, Flit's mount likewise overwhelms the previously wounded manticore - rending it to death with ferocious beak and claw action. It too plummets in a twisting bloody heap.

With a splendid and quite HEROIC move, Gunther dips low in the saddle to yank Ziber's two-handed sword from his back. Meanwhile Ziber's life drains away as he remains impaled and bleeding to death. Ziber takes 10 points of Progressive Damage!

Hissshido struggles to free his scattergun but still can not do so and still hold on. He curses in lizard speak.

Flit again tries his patented Sonic Blast but again fails to generate enough volume to cause damage!

With lance lowered, Hagus drives into the manticore facing him! Before the beast can react, it’s skewered for 40 points of damage! The manticore is Slammed and Stunned! Still attached to Hagus' lance, it flails about with eyes rolling!

A BESERKED Gasgut then turns, moves in and smites it on the back of the neck - nearly decapitating it and definitely KILLING it! The last of the three then follows its brethren to a sorry fate.

Hissshido gives up trying to free his weapon, Ziber takes 10 MORE points of damage and IS GOING TO DIE, while Gunther flies about without a target.

Flit flies after his mount!

As Flit catches up to his mighty griffin, he again grabs onto the saddle and folds his wings back into riding mode...

With HEROIC mental control, Gasgut is able to fight back his rage - so that he doesn't attack his fellow party members!

With HEROIC effort, Ziber is able to steady his mount enough to pull the stake from his gut and staunch the bleeding. Doubled over in agony and Critically wounded, he has at least stopped the Progressive Damage!

Deciding its time to land, the party descends to the lightly wooded hill. Moving to the point from which the manticores came, a small cave is soon sighted in a rocky outcropping. Perhaps it’s their lair...

Additionally, Hagus is able to recover his rifle. Its damn well made as the thing hasn't really suffered significant damage from the fall.

Upon setting down near the cave, and once Hagus returns, Hissshido and Flit quickly help Ziber out of the saddle and gingerly lay him out on the ground. Flit carefully begins examining the terrible wound.

Inside the cave are the remains (gnawed bones mostly) of many animals. In addition...

There is a dusty skeleton of elfin stature & features. An old looking parchment (Partially eaten) lies next to these remains with something written out on it in Tech II longhand. The corpse wears a finely crafted & expensive looking robe.

At this point, Hissshido gathers everyone together (Except for the resting Ziber). Still badly injured himself, he offers the following.

"The ressst of the keysss should be found, but he", motioning to Ziber, "and I are of no ussse in the air. In fact, itsss too risssky for him to travel at all now." Shaking his komodo head, he hisses, "I will ssstay here - in the cave, with Ziber. Our beassstsss will ssstay asss well. Itsss a good location. We'll be fine until you return. At least I think so..."

Waiting for his slack-jawed comrades to reply, Hissshido muses, "Hey, wasssn't there sssupposssed to be another key here? Maybe more SSSEARCHING would be good."

The manticore's bodies are soon located and opened up for a look. Hissshido, in fact, enthusiastically volunteers for the job and performs it with great vigor and competence while Hagus & Gasgut stand nearby.

Nothing is found, however - nothing at all that would help.

With blood covered hands (Nearly up to his shoulders), Hissshido begins opening his large waterskin to rinse off when he sights Gunther examining and then practicing with Ziber's sword. Shaking his head with a disgusted look, he gets the blood and guts off his arms and dries off. Then he takes a long drink and walks over to Gunther, saying, "Don't tell me you're planning to take our wounded friend'sss sssword with you. I'm afraid that'sss a risssk I cannot accsssept."

Hissshido stands there - facing Gunther with his hands upon his lizard hips.

"Hummph", grunts Hissshido as he takes back Ziber's sword. Without comment, he stands over the sleeping cat and watches the others take off.

Those who fly about in search of some other feature/landmark are disappointed to find...nothing!

When eventually the party returns to land again, they find that Hissshido has moved himself and Ziber into the cave and has already begun preparations for an extended stay. When he hears that nothing new has been sighted, he thoughtfully says, "I've been thinking about that 'note'. I think the manticoresss definitely brought that corpssse up here. From where I have no idea but... I don't like that 'note' ssso much either. There'sss ssssomething funny about it. Besssidesss, did anyone find any pen and ink on the body? Thisss sssmacksss of sssome kind of trickery. Remember, that wizard knowsss about usss and may be trying sssome thingsss to cloud our thinking or ssstall usss. I don't like it."

Sitting down in a meditative lotus position, the Swamp-Zen master continues to speak with his eyes closed. "If Hagus isss correct about a key being here on thisss hill sssomewhere, then perhapsss thisss cave remainsss the bessst plassse to sssearch. I will meditate on it..."

Hissshido then goes into a quiet state of contemplation.

Hagus carefully scours the area & then the inside of the cave with absolutely no results.

It’s now mid-afternoon...

Opening his eyes, the Master of Swamp Zen does his post meditation stretch and watches Hagus tap the cave walls, search for seems, etc.. After a few minutes of this, he exhales slowly and hisses, "Now jussst what did the dwarf ssspell ssslinger sssay that potion doesss?"

Hagus drink the whole clairvoyance potion!

With the sun now hanging low on the valley horizon, Hagus returns to the cave tired and frustrated. There simply is no sign of anything of interest here other than this cave.

(G.M. NOTE: At this point it’s pretty obvious that I am going to have to tell the group what to do. The lack of THOUGHT, especially from a group of veteran gamers is truly shocking.

1) Hagus must wake up, walk outside and see what part of the hill the star is shining on - now that you are physically on the damn hill and not looking at it from 25 km away.

2) When searching or doing anything else, you can always use damn Hero Points to make something happen. Let me say this a little more clearly for those of you who need to hear it twice. If you are trying to do something and its not working or you simply MUST have it work, use Hero Points. You KNOW this.

I really don't understand why this group tends to fall off into these comatose pauses. If not for the NPC's, the group would probably just have died already. There's no doubt about THAT.)

Hagus renews his search of the cavern's rear wall with intense vigor. As Flit & Hissshido light it up with their glowcubes, the hairless one scrutinizes every nook & cranny looking for anything that might indicate some kind of hidden door.

Finally, exhausted and mentally drained, Hagus takes a breather. Leaning on the cave wall, Hagus places one hand on a stone outcropping while absentmindedly twisting his hand on another stone embedded in the wall. With Heroic luck, he unintentionally triggers a hidden release!

A portion of the wall begins grinding and recedes, revealing a dark cobwebbed passageway that slants downward. A bit of dust falls from the ceiling as the stone moves.

With bright lights shining behind him, Hagus bravely descends the dark ramp alone. He appears to go about 20 meters and enter some kind of chamber. That's about all that can be seen by the others.

Still holding up his glowcube, Hissshido looks around at everyone else. His tail flicks slightly and then he anxiously looks back down the passage in Hagus' direction.

Ziber raises his sleepy head and yawns at Flit's raised voice. Hissshido pays the bird little heed and continues to shine his light down the passage as Gunther & then Flit follow Hagus' daring lead. Gasgut, too, looks on as the others move down the passage.

Its sounds like Hagus is headed back toward the cave in a hurry!

Hagus & Gunther soon emerge from the passage and rejoin the others in the cave; however, Flit is not with them. Just about the time this is noticed, there is a sound of a wind gust coming from back down the passage followed by the sound of a mild explosion!

Hagus clutches another of the medallions and a wax-sealed scroll on gold-gilded paper.

Flit's fate is unknown...

Ziber rises to his haunches in a startle, his hair raised as he looks at the passage.

Hissshido snaps his komodo head toward Hagus & Gunther and then back toward the passage. The mutant lizard readies his scattergun for combat.

Hagus turns his attention to the secret door but just as he begins to re-study the mechanism, Flit blows past him at top speed!

With the sounds of intense fighting coming from down the shaft, Flit, Ziber, Hissshido & Gunther quickly begin strapping into their mounts for take off...

What will Hagus & Gasgut do? Join them or remain behind.

The party lands and spends the night. In the morning, Hissshido again suggests remaining behind with Ziber.

Overnight, Hagus uses his Mental Control of Body mutation to restore himself to 100% health!

Ziber uses his Mental Control of Body mutation to heal 12 points! Hissshido regenerates 12 points overnight!

Hissshido, unusually hungry & thirsty, listens to Hagus speak while feeding on everything in sight. Between big chews, he responds, saying, "Well, that sssoundsss good but we'd probably jussst get lossst up there. Neither one of usss can fly thessse thingsss worth a damn. And what happensss if we run into one of thossse wyvern patrolsss, eh?"

Hissshido just shakes his head and gulps deeply from his almost empty waterskin.

Ziber lowers his ears and emits a deep low growl in Gunther's direction as the cat slowly mounts his wounded griffon and begins tying himself into the saddle.

Before everyone takes off, Gasgut checks the supplies and determines that the party has about 2 days worth of rations remaining. Water isn't a huge problem as the large rivers and their tributaries can be tracked from the air with relative ease. (G.M. NOTE: It is assumed that the party occasionally lands for 'rest stops', to fill water skins, etc.. In this area, water just isn't an issue. FOOD, though, is another story. The party needs food and so do the griffins unless you give them a day or two to hunt. So what the dwarves provided and what was stolen from Rhana is running out fast. Plus, Hissshiso's appetite is enormous when he is regenerating...)

Picking a destination at random, Hagus decides to lead the flying party due west, to a tall rocky formation near the sea.

After an hour or so of flight, the group closes on this tall peak. Drawing nearer, it is noted that there is a large wooden structure atop the thing. This 'structure' is roughly round in shape and constructed of tree logs packed tightly together - there is no top so it is an 'open air' type of walled enclosure. There is nothing that looks like a window, door or anything like that, nor is there any stair or path that looks like it leads to the base far below in the forest.

The party is about 150 meters away and on a level altitude with the top of the peak and the strange construction there.

Hissshido and Ziber do not take Hagus' suggestion about going here, there or anywhere - as usual, its all they can do to maintain control...

At any rate, Gunther and Hagus quickly confirm Flit's observation as they rise high enough to spot five very large bird eggs grouped inside the enclosure. In fact, these eggs are about 2 meters wide!

Flit soon starts buzzing with intense excitement as well as his vigilance pays off. Streaking down from the northern mountains is a HUGE eagle-like bird with a wingspan of at least 25 meters!

It is making a swooping beeline for the nest and will arrive in a few minutes.

Hagus raises his rifle but soon lowers it as the 'meeting of the birds' is going to happen quite a ways out.

Watching from afar, the party is forced to wait a LONG TIME as Flit and the gargantuan roc circle in slow loops - evidently communicating in some kind of unknown 'birdish' fashion. From this distance, Flit appears as little more than a dot in the sky and he can't be heard, although the roc's eagle-like cries carry across the skies.

Eventually, after what seems like close to an hour, Flit attaches himself to the thing's massive neck and it begins making a deep-flapping beeline toward its nest.

They're coming in!

(Flit’s conversation with the roc)

Well, you fly out to meet this GIANT bird and meet it a few km away from its nest (And the rest of the party). Its size is awesome!

As you make 'verbal' contact with it, it slows and begins a swooping circle to communicate with you. Toward you, at least, its intentions seem friendly; however, it is highly agitated that there are 'predators' near its eggs.

At any rate, you ARE able to communicate with it as it understands 'English' to a degree (Amazing!) but can only respond by shaking its head yes or no. As for the common tongue of 'birdish' kind, the two of you can communicate that way as well, but complex dialogue isn't possible in this fashion, as that 'language' is VERY simplistic.

Nevertheless, as you 'converse' with this MONSTROUS bird, you acquire the following information:

1. It is HIGHLY distrustful of anything/anyone near its nest and generally kills and eats whatever is foolish enough to stray so close. It constantly reminds you of this.
2. In its nest is a very old and small metal chest that probably contains one of the 'keys' you covet. 'The rocs' have been entrusted with its protection as long as any of them can remember - and their ancestors pledged to do this until Those Who Would Restore come to the valley to claim it. However, she's not sure YOU are it and won't give it to the party unless you produce the 'Chimera' key located to the south. The roc seems to think, for its own reasons, that there is another key to the south somehow related to the concept of 'Chimera' and that if you fetch that one, it will prove your mettle.
3. Its eggs are about to hatch. You (i.e. the party) might befriend it and thus possibly recruit it in the upcoming battle if you could help gather A LOT of food for its hatchlings - such as a stack of deer, wild boar or other large herd animals.
4. The rocs HATE Moorkroft. He occasionally sends a black dragon into the mountains to steal their eggs. They think he uses them in his laboratory as he searches for eternal youth. If the party can kill that dragon (And PROVE it!), she says that at least 10 of them would help in any major battle AND would both fly & escort you home from the valley should you eventually succeed in awakening the elves!
5. You gather, of course, that the party can simply try to locate this alleged key she guards and simply steal it, take it by force, or whatever BUT she'd have to be killed first.

After a long and wearying dialogue, this is ALL that you can get out of her. Since she is still headed for her nest, she offers to let you hang onto a couple of neck feathers as she closes in. The roc is MUCH faster than the party.

(back to the rest of the group)

As Gunther speaks into the radio, his voice can be heard on Gasgut's belt as it is GASGUT, and not Flit, who carries the other Com-Unit.

In a dream-like state, Gunther appears to be in some way linked telepathically to the approaching birds as his voice continues to chatter through Gasgut's communicator.

Finally, when Flit does dive from the roc to join the party, his bizarre precognition is confirmed. It’s a miracle!

Atop its nest, the awesome roc spreads its wings and blocks out the sun - cocking back its head and releasing a thunderous screech.

As Hissshido listens to Hagus (Still strapped into his saddle), he hisses, "Yesss, the dwarvesss did sssend a party into the mountainsss to ssseek aid from the rocsss. Who knowsss if they've sssuccssseeded. By my reckoning, the dwarf clansss should be asssembled by the time the moon risssesss tonight. We ssstill have a few daysss to ssspare before they will be near the Mookroft'sss Tower."

Hissshido & Ziber then take off, along with the others, and fly south as directed by Hagus. The location of the next key is easy enough to spot. It’s another of those large hills that rises from the forest. About 20 km south, its only about an hour's flight and the party is able to find a spot at its base near a rapidly running stream and some sort of ruined tower. The ruins are mostly collapsed and overgrown but the still sturdy base affords some shelter and a defensible location should it be needed.

The remainder of the day is spent setting up a camp. While Flit's First Aid is comforting to the cat & lizard, they will need a FULL day of rest to realize any substantiate benefit.

While the griffins are cut loose to hunt on their own, Gasgut uses his Forest Survival Talent to locate edible plants, roots and berries in the area. While this is helpful for Gasgut's personal survival, it’s hardly what's needed to feed the entire party. Hagus, too, moves out to hunt (Borrowing Gunther's bow) but returns at sunset - tired, frustrated & empty handed.

The next morning, the griffins return and their bellies, at least, look full. Lying around the camp area, they are content to sleep.

Overnight, Ziber heals another 9 points using his Mental Control of Body mutation but Hissshido is unable to regenerate any of the damage to himself.

(G.M. NOTE: For all practical purposes, the party is facing its last day of rations. Generally, mutated animals have an innate foraging ability assuming they are in terrain familiar to their upbringing. However, if Flit is going to administer First Aid & Hissshido and Ziber are to rest, none of them will be able to do anything else. That effectively leaves Gasgut's Survival Talent and Hagus' Talents of Hunting, Trapping & Plant I.D. to sustain the party. If the group is going to remain here all day while Hagus & Gasgut forage and the animals try to recuperate - fine. I'll make the rolls. If there is some other plan, let me know A.S.A.P.!

Also, two of the griffins (Hagus' & Ziber's) are still damaged and they can also benefit from a full day of rest...)

Spending the day sleeping, the two wounded griffins recover 5 points of damage each!

Gasgut again forages for Survival but fails to produce more than the minimal amount needed for his own sustenance.

Flit's First Aid is very helpful to the wounded mutant animals. Hissshido heals 10 points and Regenerates another 28. Hissshido is very nearly at 100% health!

Ziber heals 12 points and uses his Mental Control of Body to heal another 9 points! Ziber is now better than 50%...

Hagus returns from hunting with a wild boar over his shoulder! (One arrow was destroyed in the process) This additional food will last the party for two (2) more days!

Meanwhile Flit activates Rahna's ring and summons the large and powerful Invisible Servant from another dimension - right into the party's camp! Its imposing presence is felt by all although it can't be seen. The resting griffins raise their heads and begin to stir. Flit immediately begins firing off questions at the being, such as, "What is the nature of your binding to the ring? What are your limitations? Do you have any healing capabilities? How can you be set free from the ring?" Flit also offers to 'set it free' if it will give this information, help the party, etc.

Its deep and menacing voice responds, saying forcefully, "Since you command me with no task, I choose NOT to remain and speak. Your days as my master are NUMBERED."

There is a blast of whirling wind that ruffles Flit's feathers and the being is gone...

(G.M. NOTE: When night falls, just as the night before - although I don't think I mentioned it, Hagus confirms that a star beam is shining upon the hill and is able to, in fact, pinpoint its exact location.

The next morning will arrive w/o incident - will the party spend another day camped or go exploring? WHICH will it be?

With Hagus leading the way, the party mounts up and flies to a point near the top of a particularly steep & rocky slope. Coming in for a landing, Gunther spots something.

It looks like the heads of three creatures quickly retreating into a (difficult to spot) cave. The heads appeared to be those of a lion, a goat and some kind of reptile that bears close resemblance to a smaller version of Sulphar...

Untying himself from the saddle, Hissshido readies his scattergun. Helping Zyber unstrap himself, he turns to Hagus and hisses, "I sssay we jussst blassst it out of that hole with the dabber bombsss."

Assuming Hagus & Gasgut don't change their minds, the two of them begin gathering up as many twigs & grasses as they can, in an attempt to form some bundles that can be lit.

Ziber keeps an eye on the cave opening, taking up a prone stance with his rifle pointed toward the opening. Hissshido crouches nearby - also at the ready. As Gunther's eyes drift toward the cat, Ziber glances at him with lowered ears and a deep-throated growl...

(G.M. NOTE: If the plan IS to gather the combustible items, this can be done. It will take about 45 minutes to prepare this move correctly and that time can have been assumed to have passed IF that is the plan...)

Flaming arrows aren't needed as the oil soaked bundles can be hurled while lit and the distance isn't so great anyway...

Tumbling down into the cave proper, the burning stuff does indeed put off a lot of smoke - it pours out of the cave opening and drifts skyward.

After waiting a period of time that would seem sufficient to smoke out just about anything, nothing happens. Either the cave is VERY deep; the monster can hold its breath a LONG time or its just not there anymore. At any rate, it isn't being flushed out as the smoking bundles continue to burn.

Moving through the wisps of the remaining smoke, the party enters the cave - ready for anything.

Observing the interior of the smallish cavern, the chill of FEAR seems to crawl up everyone's spine - everyone, that is, except the Master of Swamp Zen, Hissshido.

There's no 'chimera' present. In fact, there's nothing here at all except for the still smoldering bundles that elicit a bit of coughing from some of the party members. However, towards the rear of the cave there is... 'something'.

As the lights are shined back there, a strange - very strange - kind of 'mist' is illuminated. It wasn't even noticed at first, it being very dark. However, once noted, it can be seen to have some very tiny 'sparkling' particles floating about within it and the strangest thing is that the mist slowly forms into geometric shapes - like hexagonal patterns - that constantly shift in slow motion. Its somehow disturbing to look upon and it definitely generates FEAR.

As the group eyes this thing, everyone (Except Hissshido) begins to feel dizzy and weak kneed. Except for Hissshido, everyone falls to the cave floor, or at least, to their knees with an arm or weapon out for support. Looking around in bewilderment, Hissshido watches as his comrades struggle with some unseen danger.

The party awakens - shaken and either on the cavern floor, all fours or something similar - to find Hissshido kneeling nearby with a look of deep concern.

Ziber comes around last and looks worse than everyone else. The cat just looks 'drained' and appears even weaker than he already was. "I just drrreamed I died...", he mumbles...

Obviously, the group has been subjected to some form of Fear based Mental attacks.

As Hagus & Gasgut bravely move toward the shifting mist, Gunther bats his eyes as he AGAIN heroically regains his senses and observes his surroundings.

As the still kneeling human watches, Hagus and Gasgut begin penetrating the geometrically shaped fog. Hagus does indeed step into it, but not before wincing with an expression of extreme intrepidation. Gasgut fares less well. Upon encountering the bizarre mist, his face looses color and is filled with FEAR. Gagsut, too, collapses on to the cavern floor... unconscious!

Clutching his scattergun, Hissshido begins moving toward his fallen comrade, the lizard's tail twitching a bit as he closes in.

Hissshido quickly begins trying to revive Gasgut when a sound comes from inside the mist. It sounds like dry rock crumbling onto the cavern floor in a substantial mass.

Looking up, the party members see the bizarre shifting mist begin to break up and drift away - behind it is revealed Hagus and Flit near what appears to be some kind of crumbled statue (its features can no longer be discerned as it is closer to dust than solid stone).

Flit holds proudly holds yet another of the golden keys!

Hissshido nods with satisfaction, hissing, "Good work... whatever it wasss you did. Sssinssse we ssstill have all day, let'sss get another one. It ssseemsss Flit won't be denied..."

Weakened but able to speak, Ziber (& eventually Gasgut) chimes in... "Yes,' growls the battle cat, "let's do this."

"I agree", groans Gasgut - struggling to his feet.

The party returns to the Roc's nest and again Flit engages in long 'chirping' conversation while the party stands off. Additionally, Flit is allowed to examine the chest in her nest - finding that it holds only another of the keys - BUT she let's him have it. As for aiding the coming assault, she is indifferent at best. It is only about noon at the moment & the party has rations for today and tomorrow.

As no one (Apparently) offers another suggestion, the party follows Hagus into the sky - heading east.

Flying to a point not too distant from Rahna's cottage, Hagus & Gunther think they have triangulated the location of the next key. Flying low, Gunther sights a low hill with some kind of construction near its top.

Circling, the party gets a better look and several things are noticed:

First, the woods on and around the low hill have been damaged in the recent past. Its difficult to tell how but it looks as if something or some 'force' has knocked trees down and just generally thrashed the area.

Second, there are signs of orcish dead about the area - much like with Evil Lady Justice's hill - as the stench of death fills the air and oricsh remains can be sighted on the ground in several areas. They are just lying about, here & there, and appear to have been mauled to death. It's difficult to tell much more from the air.

Third, the construction atop the hill is a smallish stone fountain. Clear water can be seen gurgling from stone carved, lizard-head images within the fountain's center. There is nothing else here and no logical explanation for why a nice fountain would be out here in the middle of nowhere.

It is now well into the afternoon.

Camping near this new sight, Hagus takes off to hunt (As much as he can before sunset) and Gasgut sets about foraging.

As darkness eventually falls, Gasgut returns with a nice bounty of fruits, berries, roots & other edibles - be they taken raw or cooked - that will last throughout the night and tomorrow, thus extending the party's food supply another day!

Hagus, however, returns in frustration. It seems the lager game animals are avoiding this area - just no luck this time.

The new dawn arrives with the griffins, themselves, circling the area - evidently seeking their own 'breakfast'.

Following Hagus, Gunther, Gasgut & Hissshido begin climbing the mound in the direction of the fountain, not particularly knowing what to expect. Flit remains behind for the moment, staying near Ziber, as is his custom; however, only moments after beginning the climb, the mound suddenly changes appearance & shape. Hagus is thrown off as the illusion of a small hill is replaced by the reality of a sleeping beast - and it's a big one too. Rising to its feet to confront the party is a Tyrannosaurus Rex! The hill & fountain were simply an illusion! The griffins overhead become highly agitated and screech out their familiar cries as the thing prepares to attack the party!

Oh, by the way, there's another one of the medallions embedded in its forehead.

With the Initiative, Flit quickly moves into position and Heroically teleports the medallion to his hand - just before Hagus is CHOMPED! As Flit clutches his prize, the gigantic beast simply fades away... It's gone!

Waiting for the wyvern riders to move on, the party descends to the place from where they appeared. In the marshes there, the dead body of a great beast is discovered amidst some ancient ruins. Its difficult to tell what type of creature it was as it has been badly burned and hacked; however, in it's charred and bloodied forehead is the unmistakable indention and imprint of another of the medallions that has since been removed...

With nothing more to do, Gasgut suggests that the party fly to where the griffins are assembling (rather than travel with the marching dwarves) as it will still take the dwarves a few days to arrive. The party can use that time to scout the area around the castle, observe whatever forces Moorkroft has in the field near his fortress and Ziber (Along with the two wounded griffins) can get some more rest and recuperation before the large scale battle that is looming.

Hissshido agrees, hissing, "If only we could get asss lucky finding a sssecret way into that cassstle asss we were in that manticore cave..."

Shrugging, he laboriously ties himself into the saddle and prepares to take off again.

Gasgut, upon hearing the exchange between Ziber & Gunther shakes his head and smiles - saying, "Centaurs - I meant CENTAURS, OK? Let's get moving." Ziber squints his eyes in a quiet smile and casts a sidelong glance toward Gunther...

Taking flight for the final conflict, Gasgut suggests a wide sweep eastward to confirm the movement of dwarvish forces from the mountains. Since there is ample time, and no danger, this is done.

Indeed, long dwarvish columns of troops, wagons, equipment and herd animals are sighted from the air. A substantial force, they are still 2-3 days away from being in the staging area for a siege. However, when the party is sighted, the dwarves signal greeting with trumpet blasts and drum beating!

Turning southward, the party eventually approaches the region in which the first encounter with the centaurs took place. Flying in low, they soon sight them again - this time its a huge gathering of the humanoid/horse hybrids, several thousand are strewn over a wide ranging area of forest.

Coming in for a landing, the party sees that there is a sprawling encampment below the tree cover, complete with ditches and log fortifications. Greeted with cheers and jubilation, the flying heroes are anxiously welcomed back.

Again, the elder clan leader comes forward and is glad to hear of the party's successes with recruiting the dwarves and locating more of the golden medallions. However, it is with a heavy heart that he informs the party of some ominous developments of late. While the consensus amongst the clans remains in favor of attacking (Especially as the news spreads of the dwarves coming arrival), the Clan Master reports that Moorkroft is massing troops on the grounds surrounding the tower (On this side of the river, that is) and his forces are mighty. Additionally, there are signs that his army is preparing to march on the centaur gathering NOW and, if they do, would arrive here BEFORE the dwarves do. Worst of all, Moorkroft has sent a message via courier bat threatening to draw and quarter the Clan Master's son if this force is not disbursed at once. In addition, he is demanding a large tribute, to be paid in gold, for daring to challenge his rule.

While moral is high, especially with the return of the party (whom the centaurs, like the dwarves, believe to be the prophesied deliverers of the elves), there are many who fear looming disaster if some kind of action is not taken NOW to thwart Moorkroft from making good on his threats. The ones who fear the worst simply do not believe the dwarves will arrive in time to tip the balance and the centaur clans will be badly mauled, not to mention the execution of the Clan Master's son.

Additionally, the large unicorn herds were not persuaded to join this encampment as auxiliaries and may also have been covertly threatened or influenced by Moorkroft's minions.

Many of the centaurs, while bravely pledging their lives in the coming battle, are beginning to have second thoughts.

All look to the party for leadership and inspiration at this critical time.

After some quiet meditation, the Master of Swamp Zen (At least he thinks so...) rises to address the party. "Hagusss makesss one point that isss abundantly clear - we are going to HAVE to get inssside thosssse towersss. Sssooner or later, we have got to have the remaining keysss, and he HASSS THEM. Perhapsss it wasssn't the bessst idea to knock on the door in the firssst plassse but what'sss done can not be undone."

Pausing, he begins to pace as his tail flicks to & fro. "The item of greatessst consssern isss the hossstage. However, if Moorkroft isss asss sssmart asss I think he isss, he won't carry out that particular threat until he hasss absssolutely no further ussse for the colt. We could lead the centaursss north, to meet the dwarvesss. At leassst they'd be moving away from Moorkroft'sss army. In the meantime, perhapsss we could accompany a sssmall force of centaursss to 'pay tribute'. At leassst we could have dialogue and perhapsss pull off a sssurprissse of sssome kind. I don't know..."

"Hmmm..." he mumbles, "there'sss always the idea of disssguisssesss. Perhapsss our centaur friendsss could brings back a few ssstray orcsss for their 'uniformsss'. That presssentsss at leassst a few possibilitiesss. We could alwaysss try the frontal asssault method - flying in at night would be bessst there. And I SSSTILL like the notion of finding any kind of sssecret entranssse. Few sssuch fortresssesss exissst without ssssome kind of way to essscape in cassse of emergensssy. Of courssse, it could be imposssible to find even if it doesss exisssst." "There's alwaysss the classssic, of courssse. Find someone to BRIBE!"

Nodding in a self-congratulatory manner, he casually buffs his nails on his tunic and hissses to on one in particular, "Why do I ALWAYS have to be the one who comesss up with this ssstuff?"

Cocking an eyebrow, Gasgut adjusts his new robe and asks, "What about that scroll - the one Gunther grabbed from the crypt?" Looking to Hagus, he asks, "Didn't he give it to you? Could THAT help us?" He looks about questioningly.

Digging through his pack, Hagus DOES find that sealed scroll and hands it back to Gunther. His eyes following Hagus' hand and then looking up to Gunther as he holds the thing, Gasgut lets out a somewhat stern sigh and asks, "Well?"