As the exploration of the ruined underground monestary continued, the trio found themselves attracted to a fairly well-lit entranceway that lead into large building that was partially buried in the cavern floor. As they passed into the broken stone opening they found themselves in a stairwell that had been filled with rock and debris. This only allowed them to go up the stairs. They found themselves on a balcony of sorts overlooking a large well-lit altar room. Their attention was immediately drawn to the large stone statue of a giant spider that loomed over the altar piece. Both Sharra and Neela recognized the figure that was prostrate on the floor in front of the statue. It was the priestess they had seen when they originally found this underground labyrinth. Sharra's attention quickly turned back to the giant statue or more precisely an object that was held in its stoney mandibles. It was the largest gemstone the halfling had ever seen! Eyes wide with amazement and excitement she turned to Neela, "That's mine! I want that gem... No.. I NEED that gem!" Nightsong looked at the two trying to remind them to keep their excitement in check as the priestess continued to recite in a language they did not understand. Neela found herself also transfixed on how to get at the gem with the priestess there in the room. Nightsong motioned to them both; she had an idea.... ** Thank you for viewing ***