Against the Undead

Part 2 of the Adventure of Vykaard's Crypt

While Friend and Artemis the Deerple investigated the strange urn, the remainder of the party remained in the hallway. From the darkness beyond came the shuffling of footsteps and low moans. They grew closer until our heroes could see the forms of zombies advancing. With Ferrum in the lead, the party engaged, striking expertly and carving the walking corpses into mincemeat. When the threat was neutralized, our heroes decided to regroup and continue. Alas, the mysteries of the locked urn remained undiscovered.

In the next room, our heroes were overwhelmed by a putrid stench. Their eyes watered and they gagged uncontrollably. Suddenly, two ghouls attacked.

"Back to the corridor!" Ferrum urged.

The party retreated, with the ghouls in hot pursuit. Once in the corridor, however, the stench no longer overwhelmed the group. They were able to form a shield wall with Ferrum and Khelled in front. The ghouls struck madly but could not get past the front rank's defenses. Gabe turned one of the ghouls while Friend and Artemis poured missiles into the other. Soon it was down as well; the party could advance.

They wandered down a long corridor until they came to a solid stone doorway. Try as they might, there was no way to gain access.

Suddenly behind them appeared a female figure in a long black gown.

"Ah, another party of heroes wishes to meet its doom in the depths of the crypt!" She laughed and then continued, "would you like to know how to get past the door?"

Warily the party assented.

"If you can guess my riddle, I shall tell you. However, should you answer incorrectly then you shall suffer . . . punishment. Do you agree to my terms?"

Again they agreed.

"Very well. This is my riddle -

Who makes it has no need of it.
Who buys it has no use for it.
Who uses it can neither see nor feel it.
What is it?"

Without hesitation Gabe answered "a coffin."

The lady in black shrieked in anger, and then disappeared. Then the door ground slowly open.

The party was faced with a pitch black corridor.

What will they face next? Find out in the thrilling conclusion!