Astier stood up as the group approached. A particularly thin and old looking Aster walked in front. Astier noted an atmosphere of excitement around the group. They stopped and the old creature stepped forward making a clicking noise. He did this for a long moment, then all of a sudden the creature leaned his head back and bellowed a long, high note. The song suddenly stopped and all but the water was silent. Astier shivered at the abruptness. Then, as if in one voice, came the word barely remembered: “Yilk”
Silence remained for many moments. The song gradually returned and soon reached its original vigor.
The group split, some following the old Aster back into the valley, others approaching Astier. One of them took Astier’s hand and led him to an opening in the wall, the rest following. They led him as before through the maze of tunnels, returning him to his rope.
As he tied the rope around himself his guides turned and began to glide away. He was sad to see the Asteri go. He promised himself he would return as soon as he’d gathered enough provisions for a longer stay. He lit his secondary torch. Vague memories of ancient tales stirred in the minds of the Asteri. Fire! They doubled back. Their song changed, becoming discordant and angry. They scuttled towards him, changing their orientation so that they clung to the walls and ceiling of the tunnel like spiders. They overtook him and tore into his flesh. Unspeakable horrors ensued.
