Chapter 8: The Wormwrithings

The almost-hidden drow squeaks in fright as the earthen hand reaches up to grab her. She is simultaneously grabbed and held in place by the stone hand and lined in green flames. She looks to be on the verge of panic now, "You'd better stop, or I'll take you out with my powerful magics!"

It's quite clear that the female is bluffing.

The female's eyes pop open as the hand squeezes, "Please, no!" she says, "Don't kill me! I'm just an apprentice!"

"I am Hanne Hallen of Menzoberranzan," she says, puffing out her chest with pride, "I came here with a hunting party looking for purple worm eggs, but we were... separated."

Sarith scoffs, "A minor family," he whispers to Hunter, "With no real influence."

Sarith shrugs, "I'm unsure. Things change in the city faster than you can imagine. The house could be in total disgrace by this time. It couldn't hurt to let her accompany us, though, at least for now."

The female drow looks uncomfortable, "I think they're probably all dead... we were separated by one of the worms," she says, "but perhaps the loss can be forgiven if I return with an egg in hand. I agree to your terms."

Xeliss finds it oddly difficult to get a read on the female drow. She talks a big game, but she was quite easily overwhelmed by Hunter...

Hanne manages to stay on her feet, but she appears to be somewhat shaky. Looking around to get her bearings, she nods, "This way," she says as she begins walking, looking back at every chance to make sure you're following.

An hour later, as you are making your way through a long tunnel, everything around you begins to shake and rumble. Suddenly, the tunnel floor gives way at the front of the group.

Hunter tumbles into the pit, but Mai'ngor and Hanne manage to stay out of the pit. Hunter finds herself in a small chamber about 25 feet down, with a single exit to the north.

Peering into the hole, Hanne shrugs, "Well, I was hoping to find an easier way down, but I think this will do."

Other than rubble and dust, there's nothing of note in the room. The only exit is to the north.