We explore the rest of the tunnels, wandering from room to room, wary for any surprises the underground residents might offer. I was eager to be out of the tunnels as fast as possible, but was hoping to find some gold, gems, or even, at this point, some paper. Vellum is a rare commodity in my life these days and I will be on the lookout for it from now on.
Seika and I were pleasantly surprised when we found a tin of soap and an opportunity for a shower. When we find a city I am looking forward to a hot bath. Back in Freestone the bath, depending what extra services one desired, could cost as much as a silver, so I will reserve on for the occasion, and part with my last silver very reluctantly.
Mosholu investigating the temple
As we explored the tunnels and constructed a map, it occurred to me that the old place might be rebuilt. Surely the economy here was built on something, though the details of the architecture suggest this was once fertile land. Olive trees and olives litter every surface that will take a carving tool. Perhaps the dry air would be good for a library or Wizards Guild. If what the sailors said is true then the wizards of Helios may need refuge from hostile governments. It's a sad day indeed when honest citizens, already exposed to nefarious merchant types, are further threatened by their governments.
By the end of our exploration we found no vellum, but an escape route. At the time I wasn't sure which was more dear, scroll and book paper, or the small launch we found to take us to the mainland. We did have an exciting time when we discovered a room behind a mirror filled with golden treasure. Before we could fully examine the pile, winged beasts flew from an urn atop the treasure and gave us quite a fight. After we finished the battle a djinn appeared and left us with some very useful, or at the least interesting, information.
He had last been here when the Empire of the Tal'Kora ruled the lands. He explained how once this land was fertile and a center for olive oil production. The oil was used for food and cooking but it's main source of productivity was in lubrication of works and in some cases fuel. Before the Djinn went into his jar, he had noted the growing decadence of the Caliph.
I have become more able with my magic, though I am sure my city survival skills are suffering for it, and I look forward to returning to civilization. To mix with the people and see what the Helians are like. The djinn made me very nervous when he spoke of the flow of magic over the land, noting that he felt the arcane forces had receded somewhat. I once met a priest who was traveling through Freestone and had, many years before, lost his magic (but not his faith) and I fear I will feel his frustration. After resting we left for an oasis the djinn suggested was not too far away.
