Almaric’s Tale - Inside the mound
Although not normally someone to tempt fate, the crown and ring could at least be worth a few coins.
Almaric places his torch in a brazier in order to continue illuminating the chamber while he works. Next carefully, and standing behind the throne, Almaric reaches up and attempts to remove the helmet from the seated skeleton - acutely aware of where his mace is, should the bones animate in any way. His mind briefly flashing back to his childhood and scary stories being told in hushed voices around the campfires of his parents adventuring party where a swift bash to the noggin was oft the best way to deal with troublesome undead - though he silently prays this is not going to be one of those.
After a small amount of wiggling, the helmet finally comes away and he lifts it clear of the (now revealed) antique skull of its owner. After shaking it to dislodge any detritus that may have stayed stuck to its insides, he gives the helm a cursory look before placing it within his backpack. It appears solid and Almaric notes that it is probably made from brass.
[/OOC It is a fully functional heavy helmet (see House Rules); +1 AC, +2 on d20 roll on Mortal Wounds table, -1 surprise, -4 hear noise]
Having removed the helm and with no signs of trouble, Almaric moves around to the side of the throne and turns his attention to the silver ring. With no flesh to hold it, the ring slips easily from the bony finger and after a quick wipe down with his sack, Almaric studies it.
The ring is plain silver and it is inset with a single ruby. Satisfied with his finds, Almaric slips the ring onto one of his fingers.
[/OOC Random choice, left hand index finger.]
No sooner has the ring settled onto his skin (which it seemed to fit remarkably well) when Almaric hears a voice enter his head. “You are protected.”
Spinning around to see if anyone else has appeared in the chamber, Almaric confirms that he is alone. Deciding that he does not like the turn of events that seem to be unfolding, he makes for his torch and the tunnel exit.
It is at this point that he sees the two red pin-prick glows that are advancing towards him from down the tunnel, seemingly forming out of the shadows themselves. Momentarily stunned, Almaric watches in horror as the very darkness of the tunnel coalesces into a dark and menacing shape - that of a dark shadow, man-like in appearance, which stands blocking the tunnel only a few feet away. The shadow points to the throne, but otherwise does not move. Behind the shadow, the tunnel appears obscured and hazy.
GM Note: It is at this point in a movie when the audience tends to shout out as one…“DOOOOOOOMED!”
[/OOC: He has a MIGHT bonus available for use at any time.]