Book One, Chapter Four, Post Twenty-Five

Quiberron orders Bart to return, and opens his eyes. “Nothing too unusual for the first hundred feet or so, but there are some strange holes in the walls.”

Sabal emerges from the cave shortly after the owl, just as Terrence begins trying to address Erandis. After Roland speaks, he informs the group, "There are several tunnels further down, each lined with scorpion webs. I did not see anyone, anything else, down any of the tunnels, but I did not venture farther than the owl."

“Fascinating,” says Quiberron, peering at the creatures. “I wonder why they aren’t moving? I would suggest that none of us should make any loud noises or sudden movements until Sabal gets back.”

Quiberron cocks his head and reconsiders. “Although perhaps we should call out to whoever we are meeting. Does anyone know their name?”

"Erandis!” Terrence shouts. ”Hello! We come in peace! We'd like to negotiate a purchase!"

At the sound of Terrence’s loud voice, all the scorpions fall silent and retreat into their holes. Then, all torches snuff out and all magical light substantially dims.

“Psst... Can someone who doesn’t have puke all over their shirt take over the negotiating?” Quiberron hisses in a voice just loud enough to be heard by the party.

Terrence whispers, "There's no puke on the shirt I'm wearing! Of course, I did take it off a dead guy at the dinner party, so it could be haunted."

Roland steps forward. "Perhaps I can try talking to them." He then speaks up in a louder voice. "Ignore the theatrics of my friend, he was sincere. We come to bargain. We seek only an antidote for the high lord, and regardless of what my compatriots are willing to do, I personally pledge to fulfill any favor required in return."

"Thanks for picking up the ball, old fellow! My tongue seems to have swollen from all that poison. Your leadership is inspiring.”

Even with Roland’s words, everything remains dark and still.