In the dungeons, beings of every imaginable race and origin meet and interact with one another. Some of the strongest friendships and alliances in the universe have been forged in the dungeons, as well as the most bitter, hate filled rivalries.


    Your request to join the Mezirma/Boxtar/Toris/Srini adventure party has been denied and your invitation rescinded. Better luck next time.


    I''m sorry, Urg, he thought. I failed you.


    you? I''d let you join us, really, but you''re not a good candidate.”


    Urg, I''m sorry!


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    Boom!


    The stone block crashed to the floor in front of him. He ran to the end of his cloak, careful his feet didn''t touch the floor, threw down his pack, stepped on it, picked up his cloak, and threw it down in front of him again. By repeating this process, he was able to reach a darkened passageway nearby without his feet touching the floor. The healing potion was still active, so the wound in his hand closed, but he could still feel blood on his skin—his, Urg''s, and the dungeon monster''s. He huddled deep in the shadows, hardly daring to breathe.


    I have to check?”


    I''m sorry Urg. I should have kept my distance and watched them for a while before approaching. My stupidity got you killed.


    The beast-kin children informed the adults that the dungeon portal nestled between the giant forest trees had vanished. This could only mean the young female adventurer,  was dead.


    Two of the forest people, her parents, collapsed, huddling together, weeping at the death of their only child. Their grief flowed outward, covering the entire tribe with sadness.


    The tribal chief stood nearby, also saddened by what had happened but unable to do or say anything to make it better. “We could have sent ten of our strongest, most capable child warriors,” he said to the small, shaky, fragile-looking shaman standing next to him.


    “They would not have survived this dungeon. The gods demanded a sacrifice." The shaman''s quavery voice was hoarse from inhaling large amounts of smoke from burning medicinal plants. "And the young girl was the most suitable candidate. We all must make sacrifices if our tribe is to survive."


    “Is what you foresee that bad?” the chief asked.


    “Yes.”