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Dreamspeaker

New Master

Oct 5th, 2018
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  1. [18:14] {NARRATION} The stench of death - no, undeath - was the first sign of the approaching crypt. Further signs showed themselves on the walk up. Decaying plantlife - or what was once benign now hostile and carnivorous, half-rotted and yet still very much alive animals...
  2.  
  3. Or the truly undead. Skeletons with bits of rotted flesh clinging to their forms, bony hands tearing up the weeds as you entered the ancient graveyard. Others used their hands like rakes, pulling away leaves and detritus, but it was an ultimately fruitless venture.
  4.  
  5. A masoleum stood out, with a broad figure, nearly seven foot tall, in front of it, a massive axe caked with dried blood sitting upon his robed back. "Greetings!" He called out, voice cheery with an odd rasp.
  6.  
  7. "Coming to join the festivities?"
  8. [18:18] This was no surprise to him.
  9.  
  10. That's what the scouts have reported, after all- a powerful Necromancer, residing in a place of his own, and quite expecting of the guests to arrive - specifically, Valmasian ones. As it should be, Arthur led his people, the scarlet hues observing everything he sees.
  11.  
  12. The rot, the decaying plantlife, the putrid stench...
  13.  
  14. It's something he wished to rid the world of. Not in the way those fanatics of Order plan to, no- but to fix what Azrael himself could not, and remove these flaws of undeath. After all, who doesn't enjoy being whole again, even if they died and returned back as something... less than original self?
  15.  
  16. The Adjudicator was escorted by his own undead, too.
  17.  
  18. "Ah, greetings."
  19.  
  20. "Yes. I believe we've been invited by the master of this household."
  21. (Arthur Rowan)
  22. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  23.  
  24. [18:18]
  25.  
  26. Death...
  27.  
  28. There is something about the moment that tweaks her senses and forces her to feel everything but peace. The tumultuous beating of her own heart rings within her ears...And eventually, she finds herself beginning to defy gravity, her obsidian wings beating against the winds themselves, refusing to touch the rot of flesh and bones that stick to the ground.
  29.  
  30. "Looks like you're getting what you want."
  31.  
  32. The promise. The lack of control is something that she often tries to grasp...But even in times like this, her passion gets her in trouble. The voice of another ringing in her ears. "...Festivities?-..What do you have in mind?"
  33. (Bei Bei)
  34. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  35.  
  36. [18:19] The stench, that is perhaps the first detail that grasps her attention as they approach the crypt, the signs of undeath never unfamiliar, though no easier on the eyes. Things here were unkempt, not suitable for those that liked to keep their creations from looking disgusting.
  37.  
  38. Amber hues fall upon each and every detail, even those that would serve no purpose, and yet all one could do was listen closely to the broad figure which spoke out towards all present.
  39.  
  40. "Festivities, huh."
  41.  
  42. She chuckles, unsure as to why anyone would see this as an event that'd invite anything ordinary.
  43. (Rea Valenta)
  44. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  45.  
  46. [18:19] More or less he just gazed upon all of the decaying plant-life and the half-rotted and still very much alive animals.
  47.  
  48. Glancing at the skeletons tearing apart foilage with their bony hands, and then the mausoleum.
  49.  
  50. He just nodded as he stared upon a nearly seven foot tall broad figure, with an axe caked with dried blood sitting upon his back. Before he then simply decreed after Arthur.
  51.  
  52. "Why the fuck not?"
  53. (Frank Armiger)
  54. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  55.  
  56. [18:20] A venture into the depths unknown. Even the Archon was rather. . . Interested in the realms of the undead. Manifesting rather. Obedient lives that stood as powerful figures to stand against its own spirits.
  57.  
  58. "Oh. . ."
  59.  
  60. Unaware it was to be a party?
  61.  
  62. Determined to follow on in. It took to descending to the ground. Planting its feet firm as it gazed upon the gatekeeper.
  63.  
  64. "Oh. . . Is such a wonderful. Creation. Am sure one is far more capable such spirits I conjure.~"
  65.  
  66. It's gaze gave weigh to desire. It truly had to learn something of this caliber. Another realm in which it could control!
  67. (Shiva Vel'Heim)
  68. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  69.  
  70. [18:21] Gideon arrived on the island, Undeath being the very first thing that stood out to him, The plant life the animals, shells of their former self yet still seemingly being driven to action merely by instincts. Such was the art of Necromancy, Drawing life from the surrounding and redistributing it as one pleased. The rot and natural decay didn't bother the young necromancer in training yet the extensive damage to the surroundings was a touch he found interesting.
  71.  
  72. "So much death and decay, Its impressive they still function as if normal. I wonder what they're here protecting."
  73.  
  74. Emerald eyes trails upward towards the mausoleum and then to the tall figure in front who greeted them. He'd keep his guard up at all times expecting the worst to come. Whomever was in this place carried potent Necromancy the sort of which Gideon would love to learn from.
  75.  
  76.  
  77. After all death was apart of the cycle, Undeath was gaining freedom. The results of the terrain afterwards? Were simply a means to an end.
  78. (Gideon Ruger)
  79. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  80.  
  81. [18:28] {NARRATION} "Of course, of course!" He said with a completely jolly tone, eyeing up Arthur's undead. "I'm sure Master Neversi will be pleased to have you to discuss the craft! But, there's just a simple problem." He said, reaching up to scratch the back of his neck, making no motions to unseal the door.
  82.  
  83. "All that pass through are required to give blood! A mark of good will, you see!" He said, stepping over to a massive seal etched into the wall. What was once beautiful white stone had been stained brown with bloodletting after bloodletting, and thrummed with magic to even the untrained eye.
  84.  
  85. "So... I'm afraid for the inconvenience, but surely losing blood is a small price to pay for admission?"
  86. [18:32] A simple shrug is given.
  87.  
  88. For some reason, Arthur felt that providing the blood may have... different, strange effects, or the fact that this Necromancer gathers blood for a simple purpose - just to 'sample' whoever is visiting him. Such precaution is understandable, and though suspicious at first, Arthur decides to agree with it.
  89.  
  90. "Very well."
  91.  
  92. A dagger is pulled- there's nothing about it, obviously, it's just a simple knife; he uses it to slash across his palm, utilizing the blood magic to let the blood float towards the Gatekeeper.
  93.  
  94. Assuming the white, but stained stone was the place where he was supposed to drop it, soon enough, it splashes, staining the dried surface of the stone with Arthur's crimson.
  95.  
  96. "I assume this should be enough."
  97. (Arthur Rowan)
  98. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  99.  
  100. [18:33]
  101. Bloodletting.
  102.  
  103. There is a moment of silence- a hint of reluctance that rolls forth and yet...She finds herself beginning to carefully raise a single, simple hand towards her blade. She grimaces slightly as she follows through- mimicking the movement of Arthur after he was done.
  104.  
  105. (Bei Bei)
  106. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  107.  
  108. [18:34] Gideon for a moment was adherent...his blood did belong to a noble house in Valmasia giving it as some token of admission was more than off putting, But after some time letting the request ruminate in his mind he figured he wanted the secrets of this necromancer. No matter the cost or pain he's bled before and he can bleed again.
  109.  
  110. Moving over to the stone he'd observe it for a moment, Seeing if there was any trick or trap to this, 'Simple request' , Besides the unsanitary nature. Waiting for Lord Arthur's go ahead before giving up his admission fee. As he approached the stone he'd reach over to his scythe and cut his palm on his left hand.
  111.  
  112. Allowing the blood to rest upon the stone looking towards the Gatekeeper to see if this was enough for admission.
  113.  
  114. " Satisfied?"
  115.  
  116. His eyes trailed back, towards the group as he walked towards them reclaiming his spot next to Frank and Arthur's undead.
  117.  
  118. (Gideon Ruger)
  119. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  120.  
  121. [18:34] Shrugging, he reached down and pulled a kitchen knife he kept in a pouch strapped to his side, it too was crusty and disgusting like the wall from being used to draw blood and carve into people.
  122.  
  123. With that he brought the palm of his left hand, pock-marked with countless scars from having to draw his own blood and open himself for a plethora of reasons. In fact hes had to do this so many times within his life now, that it was pretty uncanny.
  124.  
  125. Thus he slammed the tip of it into his hand drawing forth his own before walking forward and silently pressing his hand into the seal on the wall that thrummed with magic.
  126. (Frank Armiger)
  127. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  128.  
  129. [18:35] "Would seem this is rather. . . Inconvenient. Yes?" As it listened to the undead speak. There was no material like substance in its being. Outside of the acidic nature that brewed. And surely. . . Could such things be claimed as blood?
  130.  
  131. Hesitating to draw it's dagger and cleave open a wound. The blood of this being was surely to some extent. . . Priceless. "Hrm. . ." Walking up. It's hand held out and with a silent swipe.
  132.  
  133. It took a tight grip and released it's palm to spray over in offering. . .
  134. (Shiva Vel'Heim)
  135. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  136.  
  137. [18:36] A small blade is drawn through the palm in mimicry of the adjudicator, little else on her mind given that blood was something of a common a gift to those of twisted nature. A sigh escapes her, and soon enough the essence is offered in exchange for pass.
  138.  
  139. "Quite forward, aren't we? Though, I suppose it'll be worth it.. Hopefully."
  140.  
  141. Adventures like these always proved to be trying.
  142. (Rea Valenta)
  143. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  144.  
  145. [18:41] {NARRATION} Without a single moments hesitation or pause to examine it, even from your resident runescribe, you had given blood, and the seal drank greedily of your essences.
  146.  
  147. It was as though a vampire had bitten into you, drawing your blood, more than that, your very essence of life out, before it was 'satisfied', or rather until you managed to pull away.
  148.  
  149. Blood was not lightly given, but greedily taken, and all of you would suffer for it.
  150.  
  151. [-20% Temp Nerf for four days to all.)
  152.  
  153. "Aahah..." The Gatekeeper chuckled, though a nervous edge poked through the cheer. "The gate isn't opening, it clearly needs to be fed more..." Something had prodded beyond the vicious draining.
  154.  
  155. You felt compelled, though to what was hard to tell. Loyalty? It was weak, but only because of your innate strength as magi.
  156. [18:44] ** Morrana Coza has inflicted an injury upon Arthur Rowan. ("Siphoned Life", "Blood had been given in a foolish bid for approval. All would suffer for the loss of their vital life.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
  157. [18:47] When feeling it's body being greedily siphoned. Even the Archon could see the devious ploy that came from such a tribute. Though without much knowledge. And. . . Persuasion. How could it tell the difference?
  158.  
  159. And yet as quickly as it was taken. Was the snap back from the Demon.
  160.  
  161. Grilling down the gatekeeper with all, but few words. "There is no longer any desire to feed such. . . Heinous offering." Reaching into the depths of cloak. It held tight in its grasp. Concealed. A potion of rage.
  162.  
  163. One it was growing readily to shatter and absorb into its being. This party. . . Is over.
  164. (Shiva Vel'Heim)
  165. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  166.  
  167. [18:47] If there's something Arthur feels strongly about, that's the attempts of the others to deceive him.
  168.  
  169. Though there's a drain of blood from him, and an evident sap of strength, Arthur's gaze turns to the Gatekeeper, a frown appearing on his features. He clears his throat, soon exclaiming with an obvious intent to get through already.
  170.  
  171. "Your master is waiting for us."
  172.  
  173. "And I don't think he will appreciate it if you stall us for longer than you need, while his own matters are waiting."
  174.  
  175. The wound soon closes, and though the bleeding halts, the weakness settles inside his body- he feels it, but makes no apparent sign of such, nor he submits to any feeling that's stirred inside of him. If anything, the Arcane taught him one thing - to actually stand his ground.
  176.  
  177. --And it may soon turn into something far worse than he initially expected.
  178.  
  179. "Well? Are you letting us through?" - assertive tone, quick to tell what Arthur wishes for, exactly.
  180.  
  181. And what happens next? That remains to be seen.
  182. (Arthur Rowan)
  183. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  184.  
  185. [18:49] Gideon felt pain as the blood was drawn from him...weaker even...it seemed the stone took more of his blood than was expected...a simple ploy and now it worried the hell out of him.
  186.  
  187. He looked towards Arthur wondering how he would take this but it seemed that there was nothing really to be done. Everyone offered their blood and everyone seemed just as drained as he did. It would take time to recover from this and facing a Necromancer of great power with his own vitality limited seemed more than disturbing.
  188.  
  189. He took a piece of cloth out and bound his hand, The offering was paid yet Gideon would remember this and would refuse from anything he hadn't securely checked out to make sure nothing was a trap like this.
  190.  
  191. He crossed his arms awaiting for the next instructions from Arthur.
  192. (Gideon Ruger)
  193. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  194.  
  195. [18:51]
  196. Weakness.
  197.  
  198. There seems to be something that was amiss. Somewhere along the line, she had spilled too much of her own blood despite giving the smallest modicum. Sickly, twisted, within the moment, scales flourish into existence...The flight of her being faltering slightly until she is placed upon the ground once more. "...I'm afraid that I-...Will not be giving more." For it had weakened her too much. Much more than what she would have liked.
  199.  
  200. But for the most part, she would carefully begin to dress her own wound. Lightly taking a single cloth from her satchel to bandage it around her hand...Her cerulean hues narrowing considerably. Angry...To a strange degree, perhaps, because she does not understand it. But still, for greed. And for someone else's own purposes, she follows through.
  201.  
  202. Ouch.
  203. (Bei Bei)
  204. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  205.  
  206. [18:53] Quite the wicked trick, and where as one would naturally fight the occurrence of such an event, it happens in passing, up until the very moment in which her strength is knowingly gone from her.
  207.  
  208. When it is all said and done, she clenches her fist, her distaste apparent given the trick played upon those whom were simply ready to gain passage.
  209.  
  210. Her brows furrow, yet her agitation is kept well behind a guise of patience. "This damn well better be worth it.."
  211. (Rea Valenta)
  212. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  213.  
  214. [18:53] Finding that the seal had greedily drank of his essence, and the gate still didn't open, he just squinted at the gatekeeper after said man said it needed to be fed more.
  215.  
  216. More or less, he wasn't so keen on that at this moment as the gate still wasn't open, gazing at shiva for a moment. Thus he pointed at the gatekeeper and simply decreed.
  217.  
  218. "Yeah, I'll fucking smear you all over that wall If it needs more blood, bitch."
  219.  
  220.  
  221. (Frank Armiger)
  222. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  223.  
  224. [19:00] {NARRATION} The Gatekeeper had drank his axe, letting the massive double-headed thing press into the decayed earth. His hooded face let out a mirthful laugh. "Oh, come now, it's only blood!" He brought the thing up easily, slicing through his hand - with not a drop flowing.
  225.  
  226. An undead faced you, though perhaps you'd already discerned that.
  227.  
  228. "Blood is only a hindrance, surely it's best to submit to your betters, yes?" Despite the dire things he spoke, his tone was as cheery as ever.
  229.  
  230. "Now, now, don't make me use this barbaric thing on you."
  231. [19:01] Shiva Vel'Heim says, "One sounds as coy as a. Nethradin. No longer am I going to play a part in this as some mere. . . Humble persona."
  232. [19:02] Gideon Ruger says, "Hm..."
  233. [19:04] So this was never meant to have a peaceful walkthrough to their 'Master'.
  234.  
  235. Alas. Arthur almost hoped he would have a chance to at least speak to Necromancer, but seeing that what was likely his own undead desired to consume their blood and disregard the 'invitation', if it was even real one at this point, that meant there's only one intent that the Master had.
  236.  
  237. A hostile one.
  238.  
  239. "And here I thought I'm going to speak to civil people."
  240.  
  241. "We're coming through, one way or another."
  242.  
  243. At least, he memorizes that nothing else in this household could be trusted. Not the servants that persisted around here, nor the people that met them - no one at all.
  244.  
  245. The staff was drawn. It's clear as day that even if they submitted, they'd likely die before any progress would be made.
  246.  
  247. "Get out of our way."
  248. (Arthur Rowan)
  249. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  250.  
  251. [19:05]
  252. "I've changed my mind."
  253.  
  254. Her breathing hitches for the moment...Trusting within something that has sapped her vitality has proven to be rather difficult. Strenuous even. Even though Arthur is most certainly a blood magi-...Who could have solved the issue by using the rotted blood of the dead that were around them, she believed that this would now be the biggest issue. Backing away is not something that she would do...And for now, she would allow the drunken stupor of grandeur to loom within her mind.
  255.  
  256. The presence of proxima and power pulse to life...Her gaze darkens considerably as her tongue clicks. "We won't be giving you anything else." Annoyance. It flows about in nothing more than a low hum as she rolls forward. "Move." It is no longer a question, but instead, an order.
  257.  
  258. "Now."
  259.  
  260. And now, instead of being an order...It becomes a threat that quickly blossoms into action. She is quick to bring about pain to this being. She is quick in causing havoc.
  261. (Bei Bei)
  262. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  263.  
  264. [19:08] Gideon sighed, It seemed everyone wasn't as enthusiastic about the trick who would be though? The undead Gatekeeper seemed far more keen at taunting them for their lack of security during the offering but it was a mistake they all paid for willingly.
  265.  
  266. Gideon simply wanted to move forward and if he had to reclaim ground from the Undead he would do so if need be. The secrets of undeath are waiting for him and he was long since tired of being barred from them by others.
  267.  
  268. Chains made of reika began to form seemingly out of nothing, Ethereal and whistles yet the horrible sound they carried with them of rusted metals grinding against one another echoed throughout the bone filled grave yard.
  269.  
  270. The scythe was hafted freely from Gideon's back as reika shrouded around the mans body and weapon as well. He wouldn't let this creature stop him, Undead or not all things will learn the lesson of obstructing him.
  271.  
  272. "I've waited long enough, I care not whom or what you are, You'll move or be moved."
  273.  
  274. The dreadful warrior now stood before them, All of is allies, and one demon stood against him with an Army of undead at his sides.
  275. (Gideon Ruger)
  276. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  277.  
  278. [19:08] Watching as the axe sliced through his hand and no blood exited the wound, he just nodded and then simply retorted in turn.
  279.  
  280. "How about you use that Barbaric thing on yourself, I followed fucking Arthur here not knowing what to expect."
  281.  
  282. A sigh escaped his mouth before he drew forth his Arcanium staff, and slammed the butt of it into the ground.
  283.  
  284. Thus he pointed at the hooded man with his left hand and continued his monologue while holding his staff idly within the other, standing proudly upon this moment.
  285.  
  286. "In the end all things shall be unmade, but for now I'll start with you upon the path to a brighter dawn."
  287.  
  288. With that he ignored all of them trying to reason with the man, and grabbed the end of his staff within both of his hands, taking flight upon glorious wings of brilliant Rieka, he wreathed himself in cosmic fire and lunged forth, swinging it in a brilliant shimmering arc.
  289. (Frank Armiger)
  290. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  291.  
  292. [19:11] "I can't say I expected this much from something so crude looking."
  293.  
  294. A smile adorns the knight's features, the lack of strength hardly daunting over the mage as anything substantial. The quiet grips her, and what follows is but a focus of her strength. A hand falls upon the revolver at her hip, the favored weapon drawn and carelessly pointed towards the hulking figure without a single care in the world.
  295.  
  296. "Lets see what you and that rusty looking junk is capable of."
  297.  
  298. Things had gotten barbaric quite some time ago, with the trick played upon them earlier. Regardless, if this thing wouldn't move, then she'd just have to make it.
  299. (Rea Valenta)
  300. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  301.  
  302. [19:14] {NARRATION} "Oh, fine, be that way then." Like a father scolding his child, the axe was hefted up. The ground began to stir with molten rock and rumbling earthquakes. His form reinforced with the strength of the earth.
  303.  
  304. "Come, little slaves, your master needs your assistance!" He called, raising the axe to the sky. The undead slaves you'd seen earlier, so many of them, now swarmed in to assist their master, like dogs begging at his heels.
  305.  
  306.  
  307.  
  308. The Gatekeeper moved surprisingly fast, and was surprisingly durable - one could even see why. Or, Shiva could at least. The rune that empowered the gate, the one that they had all fed blood to, gave power to the Gatekeeper. It was drawing on dozens, perhaps hundreds of lives worth of stolen life essence, and it showed.
  309.  
  310. Injures would make themselves apparent, slashes, burns, scapes and cuts...
  311.  
  312. But Shiva took the worst of it. The Archon had been identified as the most potent of the foes, and the Gatekeeper had taken a special interest in her at the end, after suffering one too many of those occultic cannons in the fuscilade of magics that assailed it.
  313.  
  314. "LET ME RID YOU OF YOUR BURDENS!" It cried out cheerfully, bringing the massive axe, one that still possessed a keen edge and a savage weight, down upon the Archon. It sank in, but not enough to kill, or even leave a permanent injury. Even still, the mark would remain for some time, another alongside the siphoned life.
  315.  
  316. With your combined magics, you'd find yourselves overwhelming the undead, and with a final effort -
  317.  
  318. he clattered to dry bones and dusty flesh. How long had this thing been raised? The seal that had empowered him cracked and broke, and with it, the Masoleum it had guarded opened up.
  319.  
  320. Oh and his axe clatters to the ground too, filthy loot heatens.
  321.  
  322. The Gatekeeper drops Gatekeepers Reaper.
  323.  
  324. You pick up Gatekeepers Reaper.
  325.  
  326. Inhale. Exhale. Inhale. Exhale.
  327.  
  328. The cuts, bruises, burns and everything... it was too much. Enough to almost overwhelm the group, but with combined magics of them all, they were able to actually push on, to make through with their efforts and eventually defeat the undead that stood in their way. At least, the Valmasians were unscathed, but--
  329.  
  330. -- the likes of Shiva, not so much.
  331.  
  332. The moment the Gatekeeper decided to keep himself pre-occupied with the Archon, the Adjudicator yelled out, barking an order to the fellow Valmasians. It was their chance.
  333.  
  334. "He's distracted! Strike him down!"
  335.  
  336. "Now!"
  337.  
  338. A combination of lightning, of cutting winds, and even of potent Arcane energy, it all fell down upon the undead that opposed them, effectively crumbling him. He huffed and puffed, seeking for a way to withdraw the power back from the axe that drained them.
  339.  
  340. Picking it up, he carefully inspected it. Perhaps there's a way to draw some of the energy back? Though, he turned his gaze to the group.
  341.  
  342. "It's clear the Master of this household never had any intention to speak to us, apparently."
  343.  
  344. "We're going in stealthy, at this point. Do not make noise. Quickly take out slaves you see on your way. Do not touch anything that looks suspicious."
  345.  
  346. "We're going in, taking him out, taking the shard and everything he researched, and leaving. Got it?"
  347. (Arthur Rowan)
  348.  
  349. The battle was long, and the battle was tough. He did his best to protect the Archon that had held a longtime presence within his life since he was a child only to find her taking the heft of his massive axe.
  350.  
  351. Fighting still ongoing, he did his best to continue to protect while also unleashing violent waves of dusty brilliant cosmic fire across the area, blinding all with its radiance.
  352.  
  353. Vicious bursts of thunderous Rieka were fired from his form as his mana waned and surged sickeningly as he drew upon the stars above, along with everything else he could tap into within the area.
  354.  
  355. Finally with their combined efforts the gatekeeper was taken down, the chaos turned to silence as he stopped channeling magicks.
  356.  
  357. Watching as the gatekeeper clattered to dry bones and dusty flesh in the end, walking forward the Oscuri knelt over the pile and dug through it until he found what looked like a spine. With that he grabbed ahold of it and stashed it into a bag currently strapped onto his back, before walking backwards and looking into the open Mausoleum door.
  358. (Frank Armiger)
  359.  
  360. It was apparent through the intensity of the conflict that the archon would find its presence to become a factor to the untamed undead. "Whoever this master is. . ."
  361.  
  362. Wailing throughout the field as it carried itself with a sense of power. Flinging the Arcane with it's banshee like cry. The deafening cries only working to be as effective as a deterrent to avoid what only seemed to last for, but a bit long.
  363.  
  364. Tossing the spirits under its whim like shade in the dark. Inspiring the volumes of mana that pooled forth. Expending all it could with raw umbral might.
  365.  
  366. Though there was a mistake.
  367.  
  368. A slip.
  369.  
  370. It felt the brutality of the burdens that came from exhausting its limits. A shape welding into its flesh as it came down upon them.
  371.  
  372. Only restrained by the sudden clap of its hand. Holding the Undeads blade at bay. Finding only a small amount of strength to push them away and retreat. . . Away.
  373.  
  374. "I've. . . Done enough. Will gladly see to welcoming all when they've returned." Cause it could go on no longer. And likely would rush to get these injuries swiftly taken care of. "The keeper is handled. Surely the master would see I as only a prize to obtain. Best. /Azrael's/ chosens meet them." As Arthur knew the realms in which they trespassed and Frank, Gideon. Were oscuri.
  375.  
  376. "Another time then.~"
  377. (Shiva Vel'Heim)
  378.  
  379. Arthur meanwhile, also orders his own undead to carry the Gatekeeper's body for future things... or what's left of him.
  380. (Arthur Rowan)
  381.  
  382. Gideon aimed countless chains made from his reika, Combined with the powerful cutlasses made from his scythe he carved open the undead hordes that surrounded the larger Gatekeeper. Using bursts of dark magic and powerful gravitational forces he'd continued to pester the Gatekeeper.
  383.  
  384. Yet he was no ordinary undead, Seemingly empowered by the seal of blood offered by the Magi and the Archon it gave him an even stronger advantage against them, The Oscuri warrior did not falter, Using powerful illusions he'd scatter the man's mind.
  385.  
  386. Reaching deep into the Dark shards energy to even pull forth slight arcane talents something he still hadn't quite grasped but was becoming more familiar with its essences the more difficult he fought against his foes.
  387.  
  388. As well as being surrounded by other magi who could use the Arcane gift he would reach deep within himself charging the occultic power to his scythe Slashing towards him with a daunting strike sending a horrific burst of occultic malice towards the undead.
  389.  
  390. It collided with him, and it seemed his allies and the demon joined in bursting him into oblivion until finally....The Gatekeeper and his minions fell.
  391.  
  392. " Azrael has blessed us with victory, We will move forward and continue on our quest despite this....unnerving distraction"
  393.  
  394. Gideon took out his journal and began documenting what he had just saw, and fought against, although he was still drained he turned his attention to the stone that had drained them and regretting his words before they came out of his mouth he spoke them
  395.  
  396. "Archon....You're talented with runes yes? Could it be possible to regain our vitality from this stone?"
  397. (Gideon Ruger)
  398.  
  399.  
  400. Bloodletting.
  401.  
  402. Some use it as a means to please their gods and goddesses. Some use it as a means to strengthen their spirit and soul by purging the toxins from their body. And at certain times, exorcise the demons that run through the system of their being. Breathes are cluttered and heavy...They drift past her lips and flickers of smoke and brimstone. Weakness stays here, even if only briefly....Even when all else seemingly fails. She trembles, the occultism rushes forward- and soon....She finds herself beginning to fall back to the ground.
  403.  
  404. "I'll see you later Shiva, be careful-...Be safe." It is spoken within a fit of coughs. And within her own hand, amongst the cosmic glitz is shown blood. It thorns out within the center, spiraling. It seems that she pushed herself a little too much. It seems that...She wasn't very ready for all that was to come.
  405.  
  406. "I'm not sure how far I'll be able to go but-...I'll keep on moving." Anything to achieve the dream. Anything to make it to the end. For now, she follows behind Arthur, awaiting his own decisions.
  407. (Bei Bei)
  408.  
  409. Quite the durable little bastard, but eventually with their combined efforts it seemed that they possessed enough power to whittle him down until there was quite literally nothing left. Yet, her focus did not seem to be towards any of the things which were dropped despite her hardships, for the material possessions of some old, hulking beasts did little to pique the interests of what lied within.
  410.  
  411. What wounds that did mark her person is carefully noted, the cool, flow of water flowing about to clean, and soothe the swelling pains that did manage to bother her.
  412.  
  413. Her revolver is promptly put away, and a simple nod towards Arthur marks her agreeance on this matter as a whole.
  414.  
  415. "At this point, I'm only interested in having this person apologize for his games..."
  416. (Rea Valenta)
  417.  
  418. While the group recovers, Arthur tries to draw back any blood that was taken by the axe- whether it's dried, or in the form of energy at this point.
  419.  
  420. --Or not. Arthur is quick to assume that the energy of blood is what exactly took the toll upon them, and because of that, he tries.
  421.  
  422. Meanwhile, he gestures his group to follow. His posture lowers slightly, always on guard- moving quiet, like a thief in the house, he sneaks in and tries to make his way through. Nothing even lures his attention otherwise, and he quickly whispers.
  423.  
  424. "Follow. We've got Necromancer to meet."
  425. (Arthur Rowan)
  426.  
  427. Gideon contiues to write in his journal as the Archon leaves. "Hm well. I suppose we'll have to contiue then, I'm more than interested in whatever research this necromancer has to offer us. " puts his scythe away silences the sounds of chains that usually linger around him. Casting illusionary magic around everyone as well to keep their sounds minimal.
  428. (Gideon Ruger)
  429.  
  430. Unfortunately, attempting to draw upon the seal is fruitless. The magic had been expended by the Gatekeeper in his fight with you, and now was left only as normal blood, dried and caked with countless others.
  431.  
  432. And thus, into the Crypt you walked.
  433.  
  434. Darkness and gloom radiated, lit only by torches that barely clung to life. The air was thick, like a miasma, and one could *feel* the misery that came from this place, from the undead slaves that were less willing than the Gatekeeper. Bones lined the walls, the floor, some poking out from disturbed dirt.
  435.  
  436. As you walked, fires of life lit in the skull of one of the skeletons. "What do you plan to accomplish, little children?" It asked in a sneering tone before cackling. The tunnels expanded, and it was hard to tell which ones would lead you to your goal, as many were clearly made after the crypts construction.
  437.  
  438. You pick up Gatekeepers Reaper.
  439.  
  440. Attempting to be as stealthy as possible, Arthur took his way into the Crypt- he did his best to avoid sights of anyone that could've spotted them, but alas, there's still the fires of a particular skeleton that spots them.
  441.  
  442. Adjudicator doesn't spend time talking too much, and instead, he gets straight to the point in this particular scenario.
  443.  
  444. "None of your business."
  445.  
  446. "Though, aren't you stuck here as one of the unfortunate? Help us, and we might help you."
  447.  
  448. "I'm a Necromancer that works on making people whole again, on giving them back their flesh and life. Are you interested?" - there's a pause, to which Adjudicator adds.
  449.  
  450. "If not, we have nothing to speak about."
  451.  
  452. At the same time, he gestures to his people, in a muffled tone.
  453.  
  454. "Explore around. Try to find any first aid to tend to our wounds. Do not touch everything that looks too good tobe true or suspicious. Go."
  455. (Arthur Rowan)
  456.  
  457. Gideon would wander near the entrances to the corridors, Seeing if there was any chance of discovering a marker or perhaps indications on what path would lead them to their destination and audience with the Necromancer of this place.
  458.  
  459. He explored the crevices but made sure not to touch anything too suspicious looking, Only using his eyes and not his hands. Flying above the broken cracked soil in case he were to trigger any sort of hidden traps. He wasn't trusting of this Necromancer or his minions anymore after the Gatekeepers trick, So he would ignore the talking skeleton and instead focus on the path that he could discern was best to take.
  460.  
  461. - that is if he could, He would also explore the surroundings to see if there were any bits of metals or objects lying about that he could pocket, Especially of the high quality kind.
  462.  
  463. Once he was done scouting the area, He would return to Arthur and give him a report on his success or his failure given what he found.
  464. (Gideon Ruger)
  465.  
  466. Rea as always, seemed rather scattered about in terms of her conscious, the thoughts which pass only passive in manner. The desire to roam however does precede that of listening to an overconfident being converse with those whom had the patience to listen. The bones about the wall receive a passive glance, and certainly is she wandering in hopes of finding material.
  467.  
  468. IF anything is seen, she does well to refrain from touching it with her fingers alone, and passively does she close her eyes to feel about for energies that were known to her, whether it simply be mana, or that of the arcane itself.
  469.  
  470. "It can never hurt to be thorough, no...?"
  471.  
  472. She murmurs to herself, a light breath of air pushed beyond pursed lips. Just how long would this journey be? She's certainly wondering. Speculating.
  473. (Rea Valenta)
  474.  
  475. Having collected the spine, he just looks at the group of them. His red cloak now even more tattered and more burned, fresh scarlet adorns it quickly joining the numerous brown stains as it dries.
  476.  
  477. With that he just walks to the back of the line as illusionary magic is casted upon him, following behind Rea. Taking care to gaze upon her back as his eyes trailed downwards for a moment, as a sigh left his mouth.
  478.  
  479. Nodding, thus he entered the Crypt. The Air was thick, like miasma and he could innately feel the misery that emanated from this place, his greave stepped and snapped a exposed bone poking out from the disturbed dirt.
  480.  
  481. Glancing at the fires of life light within the skulls of one of the skeletons, he then just spoke outwards in turn. Quite tired of this charade.
  482.  
  483. Thus he spoke.
  484.  
  485. "I know what Arthur, of what these others wish to accomplish for the most part. As for me? I am here out of hope for a brighter future."
  486.  
  487. Standing proudly with his hands now on his hips, he continued to speak.
  488.  
  489. "Just as you were a living once, even in your current form. You know all too well the pains of this world, the suffering we all must bear."
  490.  
  491. A sigh escaped his mouth before he continued his long winded monologue
  492.  
  493. "Believe in me skull, and share your knowledge with me as I- Frank Fucking Armiger work faithfully towards the day of OUR salvation."
  494. (Frank Armiger)
  495.  
  496.  
  497. Exploring in a place such as this seemed rather dangerous. She isn't like Rea...She cannot control and pull things from afar to remain safe with gravity magic. Nor can she truly push things away for the sake of it. In any event though...The woman merely shakes her head from left to right as she murmurs. "...In the crypt-...I'm uncertain if it's wise. All around us are undead. He could easily reanimate one if we're not careful." She says silently..
  498.  
  499. "He might not be able to see us, but-...I think he can always give them an order from where he is." It is their connection, or so, she believes. "We should be careful. Weary-...." But even then, while she mutters to herself...She begins floating about, as if attempting to spoke a secret entrance. Or perhaps, a way to lighten the load on the both of them.
  500.  
  501.  
  502. (Bei Bei)
  503.  
  504. The skeleton only cackled in response to Arthur's offer. Its body was half-buried among the dirt and mud of the crypt, only a head and one arm visible to begin with. "Fool, you're nothing compared to his divinity! He'll add us all to the Project, and then we'll be divinity ourselves." If pressed, it only gave similar responses. Others found similar skeletons, talking heads that were taunting but otherwise harmless.
  505.  
  506. Thankfully, no traps were found, and instead, caches of valuables, buried with the dead that hadn't been found quite yet. Gideon, an old amulet of Mythril, still gleaming but now lacking its magical properties, only fit to be melted down.
  507.  
  508. Bei Bei would find a ceremonial sword of the same material. Again, worthless as a weapon, though as art or material, she'd find value.
  509.  
  510. Rea, meanwhile, would find herself what appeared to be a strange object carved from magical gold. A powerful enchantment had once been placed upon it, but it was withered now, only the faintest echoes of what could've been remained in the lustrous metal.
  511.  
  512. Pressing on, the group would come into a widening room. The ceiling raised, though they'd been traveling steadily down the entire time. The fumes in the room were noxious, coming from an alchemists station. Several completed potions lay nice and neat on a rack beside it, unlabeled, their caps sealed tightly.
  513.  
  514. If you had an alchemist among you... Perhaps you might be able to identify such things.
  515.  
  516. Bei Bei picks up Wood x500.
  517.  
  518. Gideon Ruger picks up Mythril x2.
  519.  
  520. Rea Valenta drops Poppylus x2.
  521.  
  522. Rea Valenta picks up Orchilacum x4.
  523.  
  524. Humouring them would be a mistake.
  525.  
  526. A shake of his head, and he gestured 'follow' to his people again. They had to move quick if they wanted to reach the destination as soon as possible- the undead followed Arthur suit, but then, they've stumbled into what seemed to be like a pile of the potions.
  527.  
  528. He notes the fact that there were few of them, and more than likely, they're similar - or at least, for every potion, there's a copy. What alchemist makes only one sample of potion, anyway?
  529.  
  530. "You. Test the potion."
  531.  
  532. It's a good thing that magical properties of potions were known to work on the undead as well- whatever effect comes from Arthur's servants tasting them, they might use for themselves.
  533.  
  534. And if it's something negative? At least there's no real loss.
  535.  
  536. Though, with that, he actively and always searched for clues as to where this Necromancer may reside, or where his valuables could be. Perhaps upstairs? Perhaps in his own room?
  537. (Arthur Rowan)
  538.  
  539. The undead drinks the potion, and...
  540.  
  541. Nothing happens! Perhaps it was tailored to an undead specifically? There was a puff of magic, but no benign or negative effects could be seen or felt.
  542.  
  543. He doubts. Nothing in this household could be trusted, after their encounter with Gatekeeper.
  544.  
  545. "Do you feel any effect from potion?" - he asks from undead, while the eyes of Adjudicator constantly inspect the house. In this room, there may be something that they can find to help them orient around the house. A mapping of it, maybe?
  546.  
  547. And if not, that means they will not stay here for long. He leaves the decision to grab these potions for his people.
  548. (Arthur Rowan)
  549.  
  550. The undead simply shakes it's head to the negative to Arthur's query.
  551.  
  552. Gideon simply observes the potion room, Observing the many facets and bottles lined up, He wouldn't dare touch anything knowing that he knew nothing of potions or of Alchemy....and to have some wayward Necromancers vials of strange liquids in his possession made him feel uncomfortable even thinking about.
  553.  
  554. He watched as Arthur fed his undead the potion, Yet it seemed nothing came of it at all. He eyes the undead suspiciously but then continues to move towards whatever exit is present. This wasn't a room Gideon could tinker with but he'd observe the surroundings to see if there was anything of value he could collect.
  555. (Gideon Ruger)
  556.  
  557.  
  558. There is nothing more than curiosity...For the most part. And while the potions are most certainly something that draws her attention- she believed that it would be within her best bet to simply...Allow them to pass. Greed isn't within her nature. And well-...Shes probably more frightened of fucking up and hurting everyone rather than anything else. If she were within this room alone though, then maybe...
  559.  
  560. Just maybe.
  561.  
  562. Moving along then...To avoid the 'noxious' fumes.
  563. (Bei Bei)
  564.  
  565. "There's nothing for us to have here."
  566.  
  567. No doubt that the household was as ever dangerous, and they needed to proceed as quick as possible, and yet as silent as possible. Doing his best to avoid the sights of any guards, of any slaves, and even the eyes of the skulls, Arthur moved around the Crypt and inspected for Necromancer's room.
  568.  
  569. Surely, he's gotta be living at least somewhere?
  570.  
  571. "Be on the lookout. Avoid any gazes. Be mindful of your next step as you walk, traps could be anywhere."
  572.  
  573. There's nothing else for them to do but to hurry up and try to find the Necromancer's hold. The longer they remain here, the more there are chances they will be swarmed.
  574.  
  575. And wouldn't that be just tragic?
  576. (Arthur Rowan)
  577.  
  578. With the potions left behind, and Arthur's search sadly fruitless, they continued on, pressing deeper into the Crypt.
  579.  
  580. The smell of rot became more apparent, and eventually followed by voices. They seemed to be arguing, more of them the closer the group got. First two, then five, up to a dozen before counting them all became hopeless. Some spoke rationally, some gibbered, some merely screamed when it was their turn to speak, or not.
  581.  
  582. They were out of sight, for the torchlight ended and left the crypt in utter darkness ahead.
  583.  
  584. Only darkness.
  585.  
  586. They must be getting closer. Hearing the voices ahead, and quite the overwhelming amount, Arthur could only assume that they belonged to the slaves- or that the Necromancer has gathered his slaves in a single hall where something was discussed. But what exactly? There was a mention of Project by one of the talking skulls--
  587.  
  588. -- and while it sought to taunt Arthur, with that, it actually revealed a piece of information about their Master.
  589.  
  590. "Bei, light the tiny amount of fire, just enough for us to see. Try to keep it down."
  591.  
  592. But with that, it wasn't just her job to do so- the mist of the storm traced around Arthur, making a sickly blue appearance of light ahead of him, enough to see plenty - a risky move, as should anyone begin to focus on the source of this light, they might suspect something.
  593.  
  594. It certainly beats wandering in the dark.
  595.  
  596. Nearing closer, Arthur didn't peek out yet; he tried to listen, to understand what they're speaking about. Leaning himself just enough to take a tiny peek, he glanced - what's in there? A large group of undead?
  597.  
  598. A meeting?
  599. (Arthur Rowan)
  600.  
  601. He'd hover along following the leader, Silent choosing not to speak but instead to write in his journal as well as draw a map of the course they had taken thus far making sure that if necessary they could find their way back.
  602.  
  603. Gideon closed his book silently seeing as the voices continued to grow louder and more prominent with each step they took more voices filled the area, Some undiscernible others very clearly speaking yet too far off in the distance to know about what exactly.
  604.  
  605. He tried to tune in the ones that were speaking a bit more clearly though, Hoping he could hear what exactly what they were attempting to say.
  606.  
  607. He wonders what could lie ahead, As well as what project the Necromancer could be working on
  608. (Gideon Ruger)
  609.  
  610. Morrana Coza whispers something.
  611.  
  612. Morrana Coza whispers something.
  613.  
  614. Morrana Coza whispers: "We could use them against the master! They want to kill him right, and then we'll be free!"
  615.  
  616. Morrana Coza whispers: "Free from what? Life? You want to die? YOU WANT TO DIE?"
  617.  
  618. Morrana Coza whispers something.
  619.  
  620.  
  621. Can they truly hide from the undead in such a fashion? A part of her feared that if she were to light the fire...that they would be discovered. And yet...She does just as he desires. Within her hand, a gentle, purple hue of light would flicker to life. The intensity is set low...Careful. It allows them to see just enough ahead of themselves to not bump into anything or walk into 'pitfalls' that might be infront of them...But as for the rest..? It might take something supernatural for them to see what's farther ahead.
  622.  
  623. In the end though, she keeps herself steady and careful, moving forward...Her ears attempting to pick up the more rational voices...And occasionally, if possible'...Certain babble that might be able to be deciphered. However...Upon being told, it is very apparent that what would come next...
  624.  
  625. Is yet another trial.
  626.  
  627. She tenses for the moment...Her hues fluttering as she leans in to Arthur.
  628. (Bei Bei)
  629.  
  630. Bei Bei whispers: They want to kill us. Or eat us for our power-...
  631.  
  632. Bei Bei whispers: Be careful.
  633.  
  634. Arthur Rowan whispers: I know. Some of them whisper of overthrowing their master, but--
  635.  
  636. Arthur Rowan whispers: I will not trust it. Let's just keep moving. We need to fight that Necromancer.
  637.  
  638. Gideon Ruger whispers something.
  639.  
  640. As long as everyone felt that they were thorough in this search, then no complaints were to be head. When it came time to regroup, she did exactly that, and without worry did she seem to handle the metals pilfered. They were nothing special, but given the circumstance anything was better than nothing.
  641.  
  642. A light hum escapes the Valenta, and the voices which creeps is processed to her best ability until none else could be held, and the darkness took place.
  643.  
  644. "How about a light?" She inquires, sure that magic would suffice if she herself had an aura worth utilizing in this scenario.
  645. (Rea Valenta)
  646.  
  647. Shrugging, he just continues to follow Rea. He more or less had nothing to comment on, nor did he particularly care too much about this Mausoleum or the inhabitants of it.
  648. (Frank Armiger)
  649.  
  650.  
  651. Morrana Coza says, "Josh approved me."
  652. As you came into the chamber, the STENCH of rotting flesh and flies hit you at once. It was putrid, enough to turn your stomach at the merest scent. And as you came in?
  653.  
  654. Something rounded.
  655.  
  656. "Ooh, they're here!"
  657.  
  658. "Help us?"
  659.  
  660. "No you idiot, we kill them! Then we get the reward!"
  661.  
  662. "No, he wants them alive! Or, we do..."
  663.  
  664. A thunderous step came forward, followed by a sloshing of wet meat dragging across the stone floor...
  665.  
  666. "Hullo!"
  667.  
  668. The 'creature' that came into view was anything but natural. Dozens of bodies and skeletons stiched together in some... Monstrosity of a creature. It's form radiated magics of nearly every school, save the exorcist, all congealing together into some horrible amalgation.
  669.  
  670. It had one leg upon which it dragged its considerable bulk, heaving itself around ponderously. With so much flesh, one could only imagine how hard such a beast would be to *kill*.
  671.  
  672. It had over twenty heads, each one speaking, gibbering, screaming.
  673.  
  674. There's no point in dragging out the dialogue.
  675.  
  676. Arthur already knew how exactly this place functions. It's about whose power is greater, that of who could intimidate another- they could not afford to waste much time fighting yet another powerful undead, and they had to move forward, to the Necromancer.
  677.  
  678. If they stopped by for every case like that? They might as well never truly make it to the Necromancer.
  679.  
  680. "Hello. I'll speak only once."
  681.  
  682. The Adjudicator pauses, the staff already drawn. He does not expect the Project to actually listen, but it's worth the try.
  683.  
  684. "We're Valmasians. Among us, Necromancers and Master Necromancers. The Art has been advanced to the point of making people whole again, of returning them back to life and making them free."
  685.  
  686. "You can have your freedom now. All it takes is letting me and my people pass, and I promise that you can return with us, and you'll have all the opportunity you want in order to become free and alive again, in better flesh."
  687.  
  688. "Refuse us... and I suppose same fate as Gatekeeper's awaits you."
  689.  
  690. "Make your choice."
  691.  
  692. Though, he has no hopes that they'd actually consider. Like the others, they've fallen too much most likely.
  693. (Arthur Rowan)
  694.  
  695. One of the heads nodded excitedly. "Freedom, give us freedom, this life is horrid!"
  696.  
  697. The rest shook their heads.
  698.  
  699. "No, it does not speak for us! He speaks only for itself!"
  700.  
  701. "AGGHHHHHH!"
  702.  
  703. "You, SURRENDER, WE SPARE."
  704.  
  705. "NO, WE EAT!"
  706.  
  707. "Kill?"
  708.  
  709. They seemed to disagree on what to do with you after they'd taken you, only agreeing that they would take you...
  710.  
  711. Mostly agreeing.
  712.  
  713. Gideon's view would be illuminated by the creature. Multiple bodies stacked upon eachother, Heads and souls combined into one. Such horrid rotting flesh and bone and the Necromancer in training was nothing more than awestruck in admiration towards the creature and his wanting to meet the Necromancer in charge only increased.
  714.  
  715. " What a beautiful work of art. The way the bodies pile amongst eachother...The way the souls are blended animated together to create an undead so horrid. Yes this has piqued my interest far more than the Gatekeeper. I want this thing I want it badly..."
  716.  
  717. Gideon saw before him a master piece and even if he wasn't the one to create it he wanted all the secrets that contained within it. If he was going to create something capable of stopping the Demons and Vampires that threatened Valmasia something of this magnitude was required.
  718.  
  719. A venomous gaze filled with much inspiration became to spark in the Oscuri as he continued eyeing the countless corpses clawing and suffering to be freed yet wanting to kill the torment was nothing less than wonderful to witness.
  720.  
  721. When Arthur's offer came to undo the creature into something other than what it was Gideon's gaze shifted towards him, Looking quite offended that he would want to unravel such a masterpiece.
  722.  
  723. " I think the creature is perfect how it is...I why undo something that has already been perfected to this amount? It could be used to defeat all of our enemies and then some."
  724.  
  725. Gideon turns to the creature this time a much more relaxed expression one showing near praise to the creation. Yet still there gleamed in his eyes distrust.
  726.  
  727. " Listen creature you need not be freed from your form what you need is purpose. Goals, To be a guardian of death that relishes suffering to enemies, Not a prisoner kept within and bound to serve as a guard dog. You need to be a symbol of death that strikes fear. Into all such your master is quite talented if I must say so. My intrigue to meet him has been expanded..."
  728. (Gideon Ruger)
  729.  
  730.  
  731. Arthur Rowan says, "It is useless, Gideon. Draw your weapon. We'll have to defend ourselves."
  732. You're too far away. Get closer.
  733.  
  734. You're too far away. Get closer.
  735.  
  736. You're too far away. Get closer.
  737.  
  738. You will fight the boss until it has fallen.
  739.  
  740. If you drop, someone can help you back up. Your first 'death' is free, no consequence. Every death afterwards results in an injury roll.
  741.  
  742. Make sure you're all in the same guild.
  743.  
  744. Prepare.
  745.  
  746.  
  747. Rea Valenta says, " wait u can pick people up... "
  748. The amalgam was a monstrosity, a being that *needed* to be killed for the sanctity of the world. Even if preserving the world wasn't what the group had in mind, it certainly didn't hurt their karmic appeal.
  749.  
  750. A lashing tendril of rotting flesh caught Gideon, more than caught him... Wrapping around the poor Oscuri, it was brought up to what could only be called a mouth, despite having no place whatsoever on the creature.
  751.  
  752. It opened, rearing back, and - crunched. His left arm disappeared at the elbow, bitten cleanly away like a stick of celery. "Ooh, so much life! He'll be delicious!" It raised him to take another one, before an errant stroke of magic slashed away the tendril and saved the poor Oscuri's life.
  753.  
  754. Flesh burned away, bone cracked, and eventually...
  755.  
  756. The horrific Amalgam was torn to pieces.
  757.  
  758. Another obstacle over.
  759.  
  760. Weary and tired, Arthur had no desire to delve upon this island any further. There's a certain trace of willing to get the Shard and the notes that they were looking for no matter what- and they've been deep in the Crypt, hopefully deep enough to finally meet the Necromancer soon.
  761.  
  762. With the gust of ashes settling down, he glances at Gideon and notes his apparent injury. He frowns, and all that he can do is utilize the blood magic to keep his bleeding at bay- the blood is forced to coagulate by skilful hands of the Rowan, and soon, he speaks.
  763.  
  764. "--Come on. We must get moving. I think the Necromancer is close."
  765.  
  766. "And Gideon... you've already done enough. If you think you cannot continue anymore, go home, rest. We'll try and finish this on our own."
  767. (Arthur Rowan)
  768.  
  769. More or less, he did what he could which was mend the wounds of others as he continued to wax and wane in grotesque amounts of mana.
  770.  
  771. Sending bursts of energy into the monster, he just watched as it lifted Gideon with a tendril of rotting flesh, before a mouth bit onto his left arm tearing it off at the elbow.
  772.  
  773. But that didn't stop him, the group finally vanquished it and with that he started to follow Rea once more. Taking time to examine her body inadvertently without her knowing.
  774. (Frank Armiger)
  775.  
  776. You're too far away. Get closer.
  777.  
  778.  
  779. There is both awe and fright within the brilliance.
  780.  
  781. She finds herself envious at the presence of the being. She finds herself drowning within the essence of something so pure- something so...Decadent, that she could never truly do. In the worst way, she finds herself beginning to grow silent- nothing more than pure fire escaping past her hands with each quick bursts..
  782.  
  783. Inhale.
  784.  
  785. Strike.
  786.  
  787. Release.
  788.  
  789. Breathing is timed with anticipation. And what comes with each attack is a strategic moment. She's beginning to learn that this body is not just a weapon, but instead...A true temple that houses brilliance. And for that, she musn't be reckless.
  790.  
  791. For now, she's ready.
  792. (Bei Bei)
  793.  
  794. The battle raged on, Although he had hoped the creature would consider his offer it instead seemingly attacked them in a blind rage. The once undecided cooperation of corpses lead its vicious power to throw the Oscuri all about the area.
  795.  
  796. Although Gideon persisted it seemed he would be grasped by a tendril of darkness quickly slipping him up and then? His arm would be bitten off the pain that scoured his insides as he felt his arm leave him...Something he never thought would come true yet it was the reality he faced...a grim one indeed.
  797.  
  798. As Arthur secured his arm using blood magic the Oscuri would grab him with his only able hand and shake his head.
  799.  
  800. " I wouldn't be anyone worth mentioning if I just went home....Even I am to die here, I would prefer it be fore a reason. Death is only the first gate way after all...I'll continue to struggle on but if something comes from this that helps Valmasia prosper then my life has been already forfeited."
  801.  
  802. Gideon made his choice, Live or die it would be up to himself and his 'allies' to see what came up to face them next.
  803. (Gideon Ruger)
  804.  
  805. And with that, the last of the Necromancers guardians had fallen. The path ahead lay clear, and infact, one could see that there *were* guards present. Zombies with pikes, standing in perfect attendence at their walls, blocking access to the Necromancer no longer.
  806.  
  807. And through them, he spoke.
  808.  
  809. "You've made quite a mess of things to come see me, have you not? Come, come, and we shall speak."
  810.  
  811. And true to the word, his chambers. Not the coziest of places, but considering it was a crypt, who could blame him for not living in luxury? A bed sat against a wall, operating tables. "You cut apart my greatest work." He said, annoyance.
  812.  
  813. "But you've delivered yourselves to me, so I can only assume you intend to repay it?" He smiled, eyes glimmering green. "Or - you want my divinity." A stave sat upon his back, magics gleaming from the gem that topped it.
  814.  
  815. Arthur no longer had any peaceful intentions.
  816.  
  817. This was all a trap from the very beginning. Not only his servants attacked them on sight, but to top it off, they've been forced to sacrifice their blood, thinking that the invitation was going to be the truthful one, as it was promised from the very beginning. Instead, they were deceived?
  818.  
  819. That wouldn't stand with Arthur.
  820.  
  821. He raised his staff, the crackling electricity aimed at the nearest undead under his servitude. Why? He intended to take out at least a few before the fight starts- he knew very well by now how much he abused the presence of his slaves, and how much they assisted him in fighting.
  822.  
  823. "We've come for other things, to speak to you. But--"
  824.  
  825. "Now that you decided to deceive us, to lie to us, to make us a target on sight? We're taking your divinity."
  826.  
  827. Supercharged, the lightning in Rowan's staff was threatening to go off any moment. It was the burst of the Storm mage that would shock undead in an instant, seeking to fry and eliminate them out of the fighting before it even begins. He speaks more, briefly but threateningly.
  828.  
  829. "And you're going to hand it over to us, or you're going to follow your servants straight to Oblivion."
  830. (Arthur Rowan)
  831.  
  832. Is there truly any reward worth reaping from this decrepit place? She has questioned it all along, dug deep within herself, and found that the proof was beginning to make the answer she's seeking apparent. The unstable energies about her seemed to quietly writhe, surging ver so viciously as her bright hues flicker about within the dark to find a target.
  833.  
  834. Impatience, and anger burns like a wildfire, her once stoic expression traded for a look of disgust when that familiar voice strikes her ears.
  835.  
  836. "So full of yourself.." She murmurs, reaching for her weapon.
  837.  
  838. "No more words with you, this so called divinity is coming to an end. You die for testing me."
  839. (Rea Valenta)
  840.  
  841. Gideon eyed the man holding his left arm bandaged and bloodied by the fresh wound. He had been struggling to continue onwards his vitally drained and his body ripped apart. Yet still he wanted to accomplish his goals or at the very least die trying.
  842.  
  843. He stood against a pillar waiting for Arthur and the others to make words with the Necromancer. He was far to exhausted having lost his blood and arm he was rather drained and struggling to move along yet he forced what energy he could to continue and stand ready if need be.
  844.  
  845. His eyes would be illuminated by the divine object, A spire shard in its truest form. This was what others clamored for to perfect their arts? If only he could achieve the feats the Necromancer did.
  846. (Gideon Ruger)
  847.  
  848. He stared ahead on the path that lay ahead with emerald eyes, gazing at the veritable mob of zombies with pikes that gave clear vision of the necromancer.
  849.  
  850. With that he listened, and was currently in the necromancer's chamber, gazing around the room he saw nothing in particular of note here. A bed and operating tables. Then his gaze was drawn back to the necromancer, he did notice the staff upon his back, gleaming with magics from the gem that topped it.
  851.  
  852. Thus he spoke.
  853.  
  854. "I've come to deliver your body parts to all the corners of this chamber, before we claim that staff upon your back, If you intended for this to go any other way you probably shouldn't have fucking tried to kill us with your stupid fucking minions."
  855.  
  856. Thus he stepped forward, gripping his Arcanium staff in between his hands, before he just swung it in a shimmering arc, sparkles of cosmic magic glittered brilliantly as it was wreathed in dusty brilliant cosmic fire as he attempted to cleave the man in half.
  857. (Frank Armiger)
  858.  
  859.  
  860. Ruins.
  861.  
  862. There is something about this place that speaks of a mysticality. Something that makes it feel both nostalgic and filled with a sickening, twisted despair. Her realization often comes with how horrid things such as necromancy can be...And how different that Arthur had become. For someone who had desired to assist Valmasia….For someone who had desired to change the world for the better, she believes that there is something different. Something-...Frightening about the entire experience. For now, she remains silent...Her gaze drifting elsewhere as her mind roams.
  863.  
  864. You caused this.
  865.  
  866. The voices say.
  867.  
  868. You pushed him this far.
  869.  
  870. And it is her sins that make her want to push him further. Because power and brilliance forces her to become drunken. And although she likes to see herself as good-...Even she knows that she is far from it. Rotten, corrupted- perhaps from the touch of another. Perhaps, from the venom that leaves her lips when speaking. In the end, no matter how twisted this scene is...
  871.  
  872. It's more than what she could imagine. "Give in. And you'll live. You can return with us-...To Valmasia. To bring havoc on our foes. But say no...And I'm afraid that this will have to be done." The bandaged hand grasps upon the pommel of her blade and soon, she sinks into her stance. Careful and low...Draconic scales flourishing into existence...Smoke billowing outward as she rises in the air once more.
  873.  
  874. "Your divinity will be ours either way. You may choose after you fall.." that is, if he can survive.
  875.  
  876. (Bei Bei)
  877.  
  878. "And why should a god listen to peasants?" He quipped with a grin, shaking his head. "No, I will not 'give you' anything, other than the chance to serve as a replacement for the Amalgam you brutishly destroyed."
  879.  
  880. A sigh, and a wave of chaotic power erupted from the man. Telekinesis, at its finest...
  881.  
  882. "Come then, I know how the game is played."
  883.  
  884.  
  885. Arthur Rowan says, "--This energy..."
  886.  
  887. Arthur Rowan says, "Split up."
  888. Alvich Neversi surrenders!
  889.  
  890.  
  891. Gideon Ruger says, "....This is..."
  892. Gideon stands up feeling the Arcane pressures around him...a bit denser than usual.
  893. (Gideon Ruger)
  894.  
  895.  
  896. Rea Valenta says, " ...Just kill him."
  897. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 10)
  898.  
  899. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 9)
  900.  
  901. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 8)
  902.  
  903. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 7)
  904.  
  905. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 6)
  906.  
  907. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 5)
  908.  
  909. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 4)
  910.  
  911. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 3)
  912.  
  913. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 2)
  914.  
  915. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 1)
  916.  
  917. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: Go!)
  918.  
  919. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 10)
  920.  
  921. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 9)
  922.  
  923. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 8)
  924.  
  925. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 7)
  926.  
  927. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 6)
  928.  
  929. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 5)
  930.  
  931. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 4)
  932.  
  933. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 3)
  934.  
  935. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 2)
  936.  
  937. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 1)
  938.  
  939. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: Go!)
  940.  
  941. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 10)
  942.  
  943. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 9)
  944.  
  945. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 8)
  946.  
  947. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 7)
  948.  
  949. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 6)
  950.  
  951. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 5)
  952.  
  953. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 4)
  954.  
  955. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 3)
  956.  
  957. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 2)
  958.  
  959. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: 1)
  960.  
  961. {RP BATTLE} (COUNTDOWN: Go!)
  962.  
  963. Telekinesis blasted across the room, rippling and tearing the environment around. Stone crackled and crumbled, operating tables tossed around like so much confetti. Sound, energy, water, all made for an enemy that was hard to approach with anything more than hit and run tactics.
  964.  
  965. But those were enough. Numbers overcame. His divinity proved hollow and useless, and in the shambles of what was once a lab, a living quarters and throne room all in one...
  966.  
  967. They overcame.
  968.  
  969. Alvich's staff broke and crumbled to nothing, the power that had been channeled through it too great for the coil to hold. Only the shard remained, gleaming and hot to the touch, its potential infinite.
  970.  
  971. And... To the observing eye, one might spot a quivering girl in a corner, somehow untouched by the shrapnel and debris that had been so haphazardly thrown around like ammunition. Sheaths of paper poked from her arms as she fearfully watched the battles conclusion.
  972.  
  973. Morrana Coza drops Spire Shard x1.
  974.  
  975. You pick up Spire Shard.
  976.  
  977. Bei snatches the girls paper, ty little bitch
  978. (Bei Bei)
  979.  
  980. beibei is tkv6'd into the shadowrealm roll for death 1-6 is death
  981.  
  982. This was almost too much to bear with.
  983.  
  984. The fight was as intense as one would expect it, the power of Divinity fuelling the Necromancer's strength enough to fight of all of Valmasian magi at once- and yet, the numbers still overcame, they still have proven to be far too superior.
  985.  
  986. Huff... huff...
  987.  
  988. "We... we made it..." - a single word, before he floats the Spire shard to himself. Hot to the touch, he kept it in his own vicinity.
  989.  
  990. Battered, tormented, even injured, Arthur quietly hissed from the remaining pain that lasted once adrenaline worn off. His glance shot towards the girl, and while distrustful at first, he assumed she was the assistant of the Necromancer. And obviously, she had the scrolls in her hands...
  991.  
  992. That means she could burn them anytime. A careful approach is needed.
  993.  
  994. Walking, no, trotting closer, the sharp exhales of Adjudicator made the presence in the dark room apparent. Though, he wasn't quick to extend his hand - who knows, maybe she's yet another obstacle to their path.
  995.  
  996. "Hand over the scrolls, and you can come with us unharmed."
  997.  
  998. "Enough blood was spilled today. I hope you'll make a better decision than all of your Master's servants did prior."
  999. (Arthur Rowan)
  1000.  
  1001. The girl shook her head fearfully, and Arthur could see the beginnings of rot among her.
  1002.  
  1003. She was undead, and still bound to his last command.
  1004.  
  1005. Tension.
  1006.  
  1007. It is both virulent and sickening- and from what she can tell...Everything that stands at this particular moment brings about a feeling of both uncertainty and wander. The necromantic notes that are gathered within the girl's hand had only meant one thing- that she would possibly be the opposition that the Rowan would most certainly step over. In the strangest ways, she remains silent...Watching, seeing the 'rot' that occurs upon the young girls features as she shakes her head from left to right.
  1008.  
  1009. Sickening.
  1010.  
  1011. Death. Some are bound by will, others are bound by force. And from what she can tell-...This girl had look to the necromancer as a means of safety. Which might've also meant that this wasn't just a mere test. That he was simply protecting what would be his home...What would be his own area. Silently, does she begin to move about the area, her body rising- brushing against gravity as she peruses the area idly...
  1012.  
  1013. Not too interested in necromancy notes.
  1014. Or dead bodies. But mayhaps, searching for something else that might be around.
  1015. (Bei Bei)
  1016.  
  1017. This actually called unto usage of his art.
  1018.  
  1019. The man was dead. That means he no longer has influence- no, in fact, her soul should be struggling right now, to avoid leaving her body so soon. Arthur channelled his own mana into her, and though he was willing to help, there's a keen awareness to the fact that she may still try to destroy the scrolls.
  1020.  
  1021. Should she do so? The Adjudicator will intervene.
  1022.  
  1023. There's a flow, that of a blissful mana she's used to, the mana that kept her alive on this world. Or rather, undead.
  1024.  
  1025. "I'm a Necromancer as well."
  1026.  
  1027. "Your Master is dead, and he no longer holds any influence. I'm giving you a chance for a better life. If you will stay here, if you do not surrender the scrolls - you will die without his mana to keep you going."
  1028.  
  1029. "But I can sustain you instead. There's no need to hold onto his influence, especially when he's dead."
  1030.  
  1031. "Come with me."
  1032. (Arthur Rowan)
  1033.  
  1034. Gideon was utterly exhausted. Not only dealing with the pain from his arm but the telekinetic blasts that rippled through him breaking him down yet the Oscuri would not falter, The scythe made of bone cleaved powerful blasts of reika sending streams of emerald flames to the Necromancer.
  1035.  
  1036. He wouldn't stand for anymore of this, Although he could feel the burst of chaos flowing through him it was still not yet within his grasps to control it. The Dark cosmic shard began to pulsate grinding him the very power he so desired to destroy his enemies.
  1037.  
  1038. Wings of reika formed from him, His mind began to slip into a vision of Azrael's glorious expeditions. An arm would be fashioned from energy magics to replace his missing left arm. Solidifying it with his mastery of gravity magics.
  1039.  
  1040. He would not let this burden stop him, Nor hold him down. The Oscuri would charge towards the Necromancer, Aiming to cut a limb off from him. and cut him into bloody pieces if possible.Yet his body moved almost robotically harder to read and even more so to avoid.
  1041.  
  1042. As the fight ended Gideon would aim to claim the broken pieces of the Necromancers staff. It seemed Arthur had already claimed the spire shard. The Oscuri wanted pay back for the his arm and the trickery and deception they faced thus far. He reached down with his scythe and quickly slashed off the necromancers head, And used his reika arm to pull his heart from his chest.
  1043.  
  1044. Something that he would find useful in later experiments. He'd also collect a few of the larger bones that came from the necromancer. it was bloody work but he enjoyed it.
  1045.  
  1046. Next he would look around the room exploring for notes and other artifacts that could possibly be used for his own experiments especially learning how to make the corpse golem that took his arm from him. And if possible something to heal himself with.
  1047.  
  1048. (Gideon Ruger)
  1049.  
  1050. The battle was long, and it was tough. More or less he persevered, the Oscuri deftly flying around on wings of Rieka, weaving past the arcane, the sound and water that buffeted the entire chamber.
  1051.  
  1052. His healing magics preserving Rea and Arthur along with his time magics accelerating their movement beyond what is normally possible for humanity. The mage's arcane force would tear him to shreds everytime he would attempt to collide and launch Rieka bursts.
  1053.  
  1054. Thus he was relegated to channeling time and holy energy at the man, his power waxing and waning as usual, faint glittering wings can be seen mixed in with his Rieka as he continued to draw upon the stars above, and his blessing.
  1055.  
  1056. But ultimately their numbers overcame, with that he watched as Rea and Arthur finished up the work from a distance, and the man was destroyed.
  1057.  
  1058. Walking forward, he knelt over the corpse, bringing out the same kitchen knife from earlier, he rolled the necromancer around and began sawing into his back, attempting to dig it into his spine but it was proving difficult as he only managed to tear it from the body partially in a upwards U shape.
  1059.  
  1060. Thus he plunged the end into the back of the man's head jabbing until it was a mass of mushed flesh as he attempted to get through until finally it came free.
  1061.  
  1062. Gripping the top with his hands, he pulled and it slid out from his grasp due to the slickness of the blood, thus he grabbed again and planted his greaves into the man's back pulling until it came out with a sound akin to one peeling an orange open as the pink strip of bone came free.
  1063.  
  1064. He then simply pulled once more and ripped the spine from Alvich's lower half with some effort, thus he stood and wiped his forehead, leaving a nice smear of scarlet across his pristine features. Nodding at a job well done, he then placed it into his knapsack and just stared at Arthur talking to the girl.
  1065. (Frank Armiger)
  1066.  
  1067. The girl looked hopeful, instead of fearful, as Arthur portrayed his magic - and then her eyes went wide and she hid her face with a cry as the necromancers body was savagely ruined, clearly horrified by it.
  1068.  
  1069. She couldn't have been anymore than 12, and was obviously not a threat. Likely ordered to protect the notes in the chaos of the battle, a good thing too, considering how there wasn't a solid surface left for them to have rested upon.
  1070.  
  1071. Gideon eyes the girl as she hold various notes and waits for them to be surrendered.
  1072. (Gideon Ruger)
  1073.  
  1074. As Bei Bei explores, she unfortunately doesn't find much of worth, anything she might've found was destroyed in the cataclysmic battle between them and the chaotic Necromancer.
  1075.  
  1076. At least, it worked.
  1077.  
  1078. He knew she no longer could do any harm to the scrolls; as much as he wished he could calm her further, there's no time to be wasted here. Certainly, the countless slaves may still seek revenge for their Master's death... even if they had an opportunity to escape.
  1079.  
  1080. But Arthur knew that the construction of star would need workers. These people, here on the island? They were perfect opportunity, not just for that, but to free them from their rot and do the first practice of Biomancy.
  1081.  
  1082. Grabbing onto girl's hand, he took the scrolls, and led her out of the place. There's still preservation to do about her, and moreover, something far more advanced - perhaps, to force her body to age, even as it died?
  1083.  
  1084. "We're leaving. Let's get going."
  1085.  
  1086. Oh, but Arthur's job was not done. As such, every single undead that was not immediately hostile on their way back and expressed at least some desire to leave with Valmasians - they were all bound by Arthur, creating the numerous subjects to control. Fortunately, he's had a lot of strength in him to carry the weight of so many people.
  1087.  
  1088. And so they left. New workers for Valmasia, new subjects to work with, and the notes of the old Necromancer that would surely help him.
  1089.  
  1090. But most of all? The Shard. The Divinity in his hands.
  1091. (Arthur Rowan)
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