Ashera TK V1 Dev #6

[18:47] {NARRATION} Ever since the last attack against Huangzhou, the Ghoul King's legion had seen weaker activity throughout Agartha. They had fallen back to their Skeleton Tower, a terrible construction of earth and bone that had risen high above the island they built it upon.

With many of the undead called back to Dawn due to Arthur Rowan's awakening, the Ghoul King's forces were waning even more than they were before the losses they had suffered. But still, the necromancer persisted.

Dark clouds had accumulated around the tower and in the sky while the undead lord was biding his time. Now would be the best time to strike. A team of heroes from each affected settlement banded together and journeyed off toward the tower to end everything once and for all.

Upon their arrival, the group found many of the encampments around the structure empty and abandoned. Tents and wooded barracks that had held the many undead soldiers were left behind while the Ghoul King brought his forces together in within the Skeleton Tower itself.

Some straggling undead could be seen shambling in the smoke and smog, and in the dead of this terrible, final night, the force of Agartha's finest chose to strike.
[18:50] {NARRATION} Among these accursed fields behind a boulder, the seven found themselves about a mile from the tower itself with several options of how to advance forward through the mist.
[18:58] A long road brought the lot of them to this very place, one that had been discovered out of luck, truly. If it weren't for the dragon returning there, they never would have known where the Ghoul King's army hailed from. Ethan still believed it to be a miracle that he was alive. His lips parted as he gave a few thoughts out on the way there.

"You guys are sure you wanna do this, yeah?" He asked, mainly asking himself that very question in the process. His wandered from one destroyed building to a half-torn tent. Had their plan to attack been caught? Were they expected? A few gestures brought forth flames to the straggling undead, hopefully catching them out before they entered the mist, coming to a stop not too far.

"We shouldn't split up. I've got a feeling this mist is gonna try to make us feel lost even if we're right next to eachother."
(Ethan Hawke)
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[18:59] Mikhaila never imagined herself walking upon such a source of corruption with a demon of all people, for starters.

But she was here now, facing down what could potentially be death itself. The prospect was frightening -- the fear in her slipped through the cracks of the stoic mask she was making for herself, but at least she was not alone... no, she was far from alone. She looked to the other members of their little task force before looking to the mists that obscured their vision to some extent.

"Positive." she murmurs, only to raise her voice a little for clarity. "Positive, hm- I could do something about this mist if it'll ruin our approach. I wouldn't want to run into a wandering skeleton."
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[18:59] Equipped and prepared, the Elder Drakan is loaded for bear against whatever nightmares they might face ahead.

Armor? Check. A freshly sharpened Nyeshk sword? Check. Potions, bottles, and other instruments of war and/or healing? Check. She even pats herself down and goes over the list in her head, one by one. They've got the time to afford sequestered behind the distant boulder, after all.

Other than her physical gear, she adds the looming, floating presence of the ethereal Quetzal to her checklist. It twists through the air in lazy circles around her with its eyes wide and alert on the lookout for danger.

From this distance the forces of the tower look underwhelming at best, but overconfidence is a slow and insidious killer. She knows better.

"Of course. If we didn't, we wouldn't be here. Do we have a plan of attack?"

Naturally, her focus shifts to the sea-serpent.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[18:59] The air carried the stench of decay. And the Elisheva carried the same smile on his face that he had before they fought against the army in Huangzhou. Or the army in the Dreadwoods. Or that giant dragon that had given his older sister an actual disease a few years back.

But the trip wasn't about revenge. They needed to topple this tower and the undead inside, no matter what it took. The tyranny of the Ghoul King had to end here.

That's what Noel had come for.

With a sword crafted from his own ice magic on his back and that prismatic glow clinging to his being, the demi angel prepares for what was likely their greatest trial yet.

"I'm sure. Splitting up is a terrible idea, too. Ashera and I can be guiding lights, if you all are okay with that." Before they could give a reply, the man's frame is lit ablaze - colors of the rainbow now all around him in addition to a few small faes. He nods to his sibling and stares ahead, looking for the possible paths.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[18:59] Emiri had followed along with the rest of their group - at his back rest Kagayaki, and nothing else. No potions, no first aid kits, or anything.

He was confident. Nothing would strike him as long as he had his faith. His belief.

"So, this is where the Ghoul King rests." He stares, gazing up at the daunting Skeleton Tower and the black clouds that brood around its peak.

"..Then tonight, he falls." He adds.

.. then, Emiri waits for someone to follow!
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[18:59] Eiphraem's eyes are locked forwards.

The reports from the scouts weren't wrong- He had to wait for the pullback from Gehenna, to watch the supply lines, the necromantic trails of energy. See when they had to be pulled back, to have their tethers strengthen, to send out new troops from the victims of the war.

His patience had been rewarded. The serpent was happy to strike when the time was right.

"We use it."

His body remains low and to the ground as he leads the group forwards under the cover of the silver mist that surrounds him- Were they less powerful magi, they would doubtless be afflicted by the thrumming current of mercury that surrounds the demon of Crafthold at his battle readiness, a numbing toxin that he couldn't help but have pervade his magic when he was ready to fight.

It leaves a faint, diamond dust sparkle in the air.

Passing close to the encampment calls him to drag the shroud of the air close to himself, infecting it with his personal magic.

"... Close to me." He whispers out, drawing the tyrium blade- It links with him, rather than merely draining him dry, infecting that platinum gleam in the air. If you have any obfuscating magics- Use them. Noel, can you chill the air?"

(Using Fool's Cold, + mercury mist to try to obscure us from magi detection.)
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[19:00] "If you have any obfuscating magics- Use them. Noel, can you chill the air?"
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[19:03] Chilling the air?

Noel bobs his head along in response, hands raising up soon after. After a bit of focusing, the air around the group begins to drop in temperature!
(Noel Elisheva)
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[19:10] Ashera would take her trek towards the skeleton tower. She would slowly take a look at the construction of the tower. Slowly feeling the small weight of the people that have died to the monsters that resided from the ghoul kings army.

Ashera would raise her sword, as she would slowly attune herself towards harmony. And would slowly attempt to do it further. She would even meditate even further. She would attune herself with the arcane. She would feel the loss of spirits around her. And would harden her resolve.

The people have been attacked by the ghoul legions army, terrorized by their people, they ghoul king has manipulated the dead of all kinds people, and animals. The king would disturb the lifestream as it exists.. and would use his evils upon whoever he deems fit...

That will happen no longer.

As she keeps her sword and mind sharp ready to protect, and cleanse the evils of the ghoul king once and for all.

(Ashera Ixis)
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[19:11] {NARRATION} With Eiphraem's mist that hid the group's movement as well as Noel maintaining a chill that could fool any basic undead, the party moved forth. The clay across the ground was torn up and grey. The closer to the tower the group was, the greater the corruption that ebbed forth grew. Even with the faint lights that those of holy talent could provide, everything here was dark and dreary.

In the distance those echoed groans of the ghoul patrols came, but fortunately for the living, they met the entrance with no opposition. The cold metal of the doors was anything but welcoming. Thick layers of reinforced iron and steel, had the whole of Agartha sent armies marching toward them, the entrance would have still posed a challenge.

But here it was, unguarded and uncerimonously approached, the other side of the threshold awaiting.
[19:11] Ohtli grumbles and shivers, -none- too happy about the cold.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[19:34] As they traveled through the landscapes surrounding themselves with mist Ethan took the time to memorize their position - the feel of the location and the way they'd have to escape if things went south. Even with Wayfinding in his back pocket it wasn't guaranteed he'd have the time to cast it fully. Green eyes trailed from one side to the other before a few muttered words escaped him, shared to the rest of the group.

"It almost looks like they're... Waiting for us. Expecting us. It could be bad."

Hopefully the mention alone was enough to give people some thought about it, have a plan of even how to open the door.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[19:37] There were hurdles, and then there was the door before them.

With its reinforced steel and large stature, it would be hard for the entrance to actually be accessed. Though.. The task might be a bit easier for a water magi.

Noel turns to Est and furrows his brow, almost too polite to ask if she would be willing.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[19:39] Soon after making their way through the barren landscape, they arrived to particularly durable-looking door.

A glance is given to each of the party members.

"That's what it seems like. There has to be another way in, though? Unless... this is it, which in that case we could probably try to... drill through it."
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[19:39] "I certainly wouldn't trust it," Ohtli grumbles, teeth chattering as she huddles down into her coat. With the doors flung wide open she's cautious. All the more reason to draw the Nyeshk longsword from its sheathe and heft the unfamiliar weight of the metal in her hand.

Around her still the Quetzal spirit flits and twists, equally as restless as its summoner.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[19:41] As the group drew nearer to the tower, Emiri feels.. Confused.

It feels too easy to get to the tower. Once they're there, he gives an inquisitive gaze to the steel doors that prevent their entrance.

"..Huuuh, those doors look heavy..." He pondered.

Emiri wasn't super smart somehow
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[19:44] Est arrived, far later than the rest of the group; her questionable physiology doubtlessly made it fairly easy to trail behind everyone, and it's only when they came to the door that rolling mist crawled up behind the group and reformed near Eiphraem.

"...You all left me behind," she muttered fairly meekly, but went silent as she stopped to contemplate the door. She glanced sidelong at Noel, mind instantly going back to the last expedition she had with him.

The one where she nearly got punched in the face by a flying golem. Ringing the doorbell wasn't the best idea - she should've just slipped in, stealthily. Perhaps...

"I am sure that I could try to slip through a crack here,"the spectral girl said, body already more like a human-shaped cloud of fog than an actual, physical thing. "...And find a way to open it. Shall I?"
(Est Kang)
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[19:45] Eiphraem's influence reaches far enough to coat them.

It'd probably leave everyone's fingers and mouth a bit tingly and numb, with thick, heavy eye lids. It's the profusion of mercury, and any holy mage or similarly purging effect could remove the light tickling sensation.

"..." His hand goes towards the gate, curiously.

"This can't be the only entrance. Let's canvas the tower for entries- I am certain we could fly up, if necessary, but I would not want to make us vulnerable midair."

He turns towards Est- Smiling, faintly.

"Hold on; Let's circle, first. If we can find a smaller, locked, entryway."
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[19:46] Ashera would walk towards the area. She would feel the buzzing of the occultic magic, and would slowly feeling the detect of the occultic influence. She would slowly maintain her fomorian stance, playing defensively.

Ashera would slowly take a look around to see the others.

"The door is quite firm and closed. Should I try to enter and break in? I can be able to unlock it without the other people being hurt as well as well I am on your call Eiphraem.."

(Ashera Ixis)
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[19:48] Est rolls with snakedad. Big doors are impractical - there usually is another smaller door for emergencies.
(Est Kang)
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[19:49] {NARRATION} Encircling the tower under the same magical guise that disguised their presence, they moved without trouble once again. The dirt underfoot provided for silent footfalls until nearly halfway around they spot it;

A hold burned through the bone and earth. No ash or incinerated debris left signs of fire magic that created this entrance, but whoever had formed it certainly found their way inside through here.
[19:51] Ethan Hawke asks, ".. Let's go through here?"
[19:51] Est Kang says, "...Worked for whoever was here before us. Might as well."
[19:51] Noel Elisheva asks, "Sounds like a plan. Should I scout ahead for the living?"
[19:51] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "What if they died-"
[19:51] Est Kang says, "Then we /don't/ die."
[19:51] Ethan Hawke says, "I don't think any of them will be living."
[19:51] Noel Elisheva says, "Good point."
[19:51] Emiri Taiyang exclaims, "..! Oh, we should go trhough this hole!"
[19:53] Eiphraem Kang says, "Ah-"
[19:53] Eiphraem Kang says, "Right."
[19:54] Eiphraem Kang says, "Yes- Noel, take point."
[19:54] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "--Are you sure?..."
[19:55] Eiphraem Kang says, "We can move up to the front, Ohtli, when needed."
[19:55] Eiphraem Kang says, "I trust in his detection skills."
[19:55] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Hnnn..."
[19:55] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "...Carefully, Noel."
[19:55] Noel Elisheva says, "Define that word again? We're in the hive of the undead.."
[19:56] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "Snrk."
[19:56] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Your back-talk is doing nothing for my concern."
[19:57] Ashera Ixis says, "Lead the way Noel."
[19:57] Noel gives a bow to avoid being thumped by Ohtli and takes the lead after -- projections of three faes colored by the primary hues orbiting around him. His aim is to move through the scorched hole in the tower's defenses and guide them in - carefully and cautiously.

At the same time, he aims to take on the persona of a walking radar, tracking any mana signatures that were not hidden in the general area.

".. I was just joking. I'm focused."
(Noel Elisheva)
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[19:58] {NARRATION} The tunnel went on for a short amount of time, still without note of fire magic. Somehow the constructed wall had been torn through until it arced downward. It was only small enough to flow through single file, likely the work of a lone person who had come here before the allied strike force.

Within the tunnel it was dark, given it was not constructed with light sources or hospitality in mind. It opened out ahead of the group where finally a green glow indicated something was awaiting.

Emerging through the exit, they all found themselves in a circular chamber, one with four more doors... foot prints across the muddied floor lead out from the hole in the wall and toward each of the doors. Three of them were smaller, while the entryway dead ahead was marked by another grand construct made of metal. Runes carved within it were the source of that emerald glow, and veins in the wall indicated they were drawing source from whatever lied behind the other three doors.

This was the north door, while the southern, western, and eastern ones were much smaller and made primarily of blackened wood.

Noel does not detect anyone nearby.
[20:02] After following in a single-file line down the cramped path, Noel leaps out into the center of the room, prepared for combat. Or maybe he was just trying to look cool, since he already knew that there was no one ahead.

Regardless, the four doors are given a great deal of attention as the others file out.

"What's the play here? We agreed to stay together, right? So we have three paths to clear before we can.. crack the northern hallway open." Cassel's lessons in deductive logic had paid off, apparently.

Noel turns back to the rest of the group, waiting to see what they made of it all.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[20:05] "We should hit each door together- you're probably right, Noel, each door contributes to opening that big one right here." She points to the northern door. "...maybe the person who broke in here first died trying to open it? What a strange design, too, it's like someone was intended to come here."

The blonde, on alert, surveyed their immediate surroundings.
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[20:07] Upon arriving in a room with three paths to take Ethan thought for a few moments. They all seemed equally non-descript and unclear - yet the path they would take would certainly change the outcome of this raid— the outcome of their lives. And so, the Wayfinder did the only thing one could do in this situation: He pointed at one of the doors and—

"Ee nee mi nee ma nee mo, let's stick together and take that do...

...or."

He ended on the western door.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[20:08] The Drakan tucks in her wings, shuffling in line behind all the others and into the keep's interior.

"We could search them systematically...Which I wouldn't be against. But as we discussed earlier, splitting up isn't a great idea."
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[20:08] The Kitsune pressed on as they went in, single file as everyone else apparently. Emiri glances around carefully in the dark, though his constant aura of Glow gave light.

"I.. hrrrm.."

Once again, Emiri waits for someone else to do something! He is so wise and undecisive kya ( >___< )
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[20:09] "Hold for one moment."

The serpent's voice echoes out. He was no master, but...

He walks over to the doorframe, trying to read over the runes. He had Elisheva's tome as somewhat of a reference, in addition to his own studies- Before they moved forwards, he attempts to read over the symbology that binds the magic into the door.

With a soft press of the front of the tome, when he pulls it from his side, the lock clicks open.

He's willing to take a few minutes.

The dead gave him no haste.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[20:10] Ashera would slowly walk along side the blessed angel, with the dark and beckoning room. She would take a look at the cramped tunnel as she would slowly reach towards the end. She would take a look at each door as she would see the others.

Each door would be quite odd towards her. One north door would look perfectly normal. Just like the others. She would then look towards everyone else. And would proceed to consult them on what door they should pick.

"Hey, These doors seem quite off... It seems that the main door up at the north is much different than the other blackened ones.... I think that the doors may be booby-trapped. Especially the one up the north....Should we approach with caution? Or should w-"

Ashera would take a look at Eiphraem. Hey may be unto something..
(Ashera Ixis)
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[20:11] Ethan Hawke says, "-"
[20:11] Ethan Hawke says, "Oh."
[20:11] Ethan Hawke asks, "You guys don't wanna clear the whole thing up..?"
[20:12] TattlesDM whispers: The magic within the doorway feels familiar, but in a twisted sort of way. Necromantic energies are certainly present, but while the Ghoul King's origins are from Arthur, no signs of Azraelite influence are here. Instead something warped, something that feels far worse than even chaos magic has been put into the foundations of this tower, a kind of magic even a Lich should not be capable of.
[20:16] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "I'm for clearing it out..."
[20:16] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "Noel can sense where things are though, yes?"
[20:20] Noel Elisheva says, "Might be more trouble than it's worth, honestly."
[20:20] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "I think our aim should just be cutting the head off the snake."
[20:20] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "."
[20:20] Est Kang asks, "...Excuse me?"
[20:20] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "I-"
[20:20] Noel Elisheva says, "..... "
[20:20] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "I meant the"
[20:20] Noel Elisheva says, "Mikhaila...."
[20:21] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "the ghoul king"
[20:21] Esso Naam says, "Despite the bad analogy here, I agree."
[20:22] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "If that will stop it all? Then by all means."
[20:26] Emiri Taiyang whispers something.
[20:26] Eiphraem's lips purse.

His brows knit together, and that's not a good sign.

His fingers idle near the runes, pulling back haphazardly as his tail starts to lash along the stone, sliding back and forth. His fingers tap along the book.

"... This isn't Arthur's work," He mumbles. "... But it's-"

His mouth moves, silently.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[20:26] Eiphraem Kang says, "... I think we should go to the south. We need to examine the whole facility."
[20:26] Eiphraem Kang says, "As much as possible."
[20:26] Esso Naam says, "Agreed."
[20:27] Ethan Hawke asks, "Why south?"
[20:27] Esso Naam says, "Best not to have any unwanted surprises."
[20:28] Mikhaila Elisheva asks, "Why not?"
[20:30] Noel Elisheva exclaims, "South it is!"
[20:30] Ethan Hawke says, "Alright-"
[20:31] Ethan Hawke says, "Better than going off a song."
[20:31] Admin ChanceA: I'll be rebooting in a bit (server tends to crash if it passes 32 hours uptime) but I'll give a 10 minute heads up prior
[20:32] Ohtli Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[20:32] {NARRATION} The southern door was chosen first. Aside from the veins that ran along the ceiling and floor and through the entryway's frame, there was little sign as to what was on the other side. The door opened without a struggle, though a long and hollow creak ensured stealth wasn't really an option.

Through the door, the team found themselves within a darkened room, but once they all file in, the door itself closed behind them. Torches lining the walls revealed anothe circular enclosure with nothing but a lifted stone basin upon a pedestal in the center.

Inscription along the side read:

The Sacrifice of Blood
The way ahead cannot be opened without pain

Within the large basin was a hand, bloodied and pale, but not deteriorated. It must have come from a living person who had come here first.

[20:44] Ashera would slowly take a small walk towards the southern door. She had a HUGE feeling that the darkened entrances were booby-trapped. But the power of her Deep attunement would slowly begin to quell if her abilities would allow it.

"Oh, this doesn't look too ba-."

Ashera take a look behind her as she would see as the door had slammed before her. She would turn around slowly. As the only way was forward.would

Ashera would slowly approach even further. Being calm, focused and collected. She would not allow the inscription to phase her trust and valor. Slowly would take a squint deeper....She would slowly walk deeper...

"Stay calm..Stay close...."

She would instruct everyone.

(Ashera Ixis)
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[20:58] The sensation immediately WHIPS Eiphraem's head up.

Noel's attunement to living beings might stand, but the serpent's nature immediately makes itself known as a soft, roiling buzz hits the minds of all nearby, a tinnitic buzz as the demon's mind reaches out.

Telepathy rolls out, trying to search for any nearby minds- Connecting, pushing to softly fill the 'channel' between them.

He splays a massive hand over the basin.

"... Ohtli."

"Is your athame magical?" He utters, tersely.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[20:59] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "No, sir. But it's old and I've always used it in my rituals..."
[20:59] Eiphraem Kang asks, "Do you think it can pierce my flesh?"
[21:00] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "If you tried hard enough, perhaps- what are you thinking to do?..."
[21:01] Est Kang says, "SACRIFICE ZEALOT TO THE BASIN"
[21:01] Ashera Would take a look around, sensing arcane presence, or any presence of life at all. And she would feel the presence almost immediately after the Earthquake..

"Oh no... This is a little irritating..."

She could feel the buzz after his telepathy Closing her eyes in silent pain....
(Ashera Ixis)
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[21:30] Ashera Ixis says, "This is.. Not good..."
[21:30] Lick!

Lick, lick, lick. Like an injured animal, Eiphraem immediately laps at his hand in between dabs- His thick, drug-carrying saliva combines with the foul smelling ooze, making a quick poultice with the consistency of tree sap- Some of it probably clinging to the hanky.

Demons were very, very resilient creatures.

He gently pushes his face against Ohtli's head, for a second, trying to calm down, whuffling softly through his nasal slits. He doesn't say anything for a moment.

He sort of a beast, at his heart, as much sapient rationality was put onto him.

It did not. It was worth an attempt. I think what is above is too much of an issue, and we are noticed.

We can try to break in- I think if we are noticed, we should stop here, and try the east. That is more likely to lead us to towards the north. We can double back if we are wrong.

Rather than trust his voice, he exhales softly and relies on telepathy.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[21:41] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "...I think blood loss is kind of problematic."
[21:41] It's either bleed out, or be trapped in a room forever. Ohtli naturally prefers the former as she rolls up her sleeve, bares her scaled forearm, and readies her knife again.

Her cutting is far less delicate on herself, but the result is the same. The Drakan bleeds freely into the bowl.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[21:41] Esso Naam asks, "Anyone here an Earth magi?"
[21:41] Ashera Ixis says, "I am."
[21:41] Esso Naam says, "Come with me for a moment."
[21:41] Ethan moved up closer to the bowl, too, looking down towards it for a few moments, then up to Ohtli. His left hand extended outwards to help out.
(Ethan Hawke)

[21:47] Ashera would slowly remove her armor plating from around her arms. She would slowly offer her wrists... And would take out her blade. She would slowly press her wrist against it. And would dump a pints worth of blood before feeling a slight light-headedness. She would use the power of lifetream to slowly speed up healing her blood wounds.

Ashera would still feel the stinging pain from where she was cut. And would give a small sigh.. She did the sacrifice not for herself. But so that the people could get out. The Paladin would nod her head. As she would look at everyone else. Including esso.

Ashera would slowly walk towards esso, as he seemed to have a plan in mind, Hoping that there would be any good in his idea. Maybe she would be able to save them. If the two had thought hard enough....
(Ashera Ixis)
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[21:47] Noel makes another knife for Emiri.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[21:47] Emiri cuts his hand with his rented ice knife! Whoa!

[21:47] "I'm a little reluctant to give my blood to strange pots, but..." She shakes her head at Emiri before looking at the bloody basin.

A small current of wind materializes near her palm, hovering almost innocently before fully manifesting into something threatening. Silently, a sharpened blade of wind cut her across her own palm, the wound causing her to wince ever so slightly as her precious, precious blood flows in with everyone else.
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[21:47] Esso holds up a hand to stop Ashera from stepping past where he'd stopped. He nods towards it.
(Esso Naam)
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[21:47] Esso Naam asks, "Do you hear that?"
[21:48] {NARRATION} The blood that spills into the basin does little to raise what is already in the container. They all bleed far more than the result showed, and it's not hard to see that. It's more than a few droplets, but given seven had drew blood across their arms/palms, it was now as though there were seven droplets in the bottom.
[21:48] TattlesDM whispers: There is a low growl coming from the other side of this bricked up doorway.
[21:49] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "..."
[21:50] Ashera Ixis says, "I do..."
[21:50] Ashera Ixis says, "I feel it too...."
[21:50] Esso Naam says, "We may be able to knock this down, but we'd probably be in for a fight."
[21:51] Est Kang says, "Serious question, there are /multiple/ water magi in here, have we considered just-"
[21:51] Est Kang says, "...Filling it."
[21:52] He flicks his earfins forwards, licking onto a thumb as he watches Ohtli carve deep, with some alarm- If not stopped, after the flow didn't work, he's slide it over her wound.

The saliva leaves behind a soft, floaty sensation, banishing pain after it's allowed to infect her wound, if she lets it.

It's an opiate.

He turns his head towards Est-


(Eiphraem Kang)
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[21:52] Esso Naam says, "There's a fair chance water will do the same thing blood will, but that's worth a try."
[21:52] Eiphraem Kang says, "... We could try that. If it fails- We knock it down."
[21:52] Eiphraem Kang asks, "Agreeable?"
[21:52] Mikhaila Elisheva asks, "What's stopping us from just blowing our way through that door?"
[21:52] Est Kang says, "Oh, nothing. In fact-"
[21:52] Esso Naam says, "The growling on the other side is what's stopping us from blowing these bricks down."
[21:53] Emiri Taiyang says, "Growling?.."
[21:53] Esso glances back at them, pointing at the bricked up archway in front of him.
(Esso Naam)
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[21:53] Esso Naam says, "Might be an option, but most likely a fight behind it."
[21:54] Ethan takes a few moments to look at the drops of blood remaining in the bowl, the cut in his palm being seared by his own magic as he contemplates the solution. A quick count of what was remaining individually left him finally speaking up - thinking he had the solution at last.

"One drop for each person that bleeds into it. That's how much remains— I think the solution's not to run away or avoid a fight, it's to take it."
(Ethan Hawke)
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[21:55] The Drakan wrinkles her nose as Eiphraem slathers saliva up the laceration on her arm, the skin on the back of her neck crawling. It is probably in her top ten of strangest sensations ever felt. But far be it from her to get in the way of the Archon's care of one of 'his humans'.

And...much to her surprise? It does feel better after he smears drool on the wound.

"I...thank you?" she replies, perplexed.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[21:57] Est has, notably, not bled into the basin yet - perhaps for the best, given the curious properties of the thing. She hums in thought for a moment, stuffing her weaponized ice back into her sleeve as she thought it over. She tapped the tip of her staff against the edge of the basin a few times, about to go ahead with the "just use water magic to fill it and/or see what happens" plan - but Ethan gives her some pause.

"...Take it? How so?"
(Est Kang)
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[21:58] Ashera would slowly pull of spare stone from the ground, as she would slowly create what is to be a battering ram. She would take a look towards everyone She would take a look at the few And would nod to them.

"Alrighty. Lets get to cracking!"

Ashera would say. She would be aware of those around her. And would need to prepare herself. Before she was going to do what she was thinking she would look towards everyone prepared. And would give them a warning in advance.

"Alright. Those behind us. Stay in your defensive positions.. Esso stand behind me."

Ashera would slowly delve into her meditative state. Increasing her connection with the arcane. The power of the lifestream would slowly bolster her physical abilities As she had practiced gathering the life energy around them. All whilst still hearing a buzzing from the archon.

Ashera would then arch her battering ram back, And would use the force of the arcane to push the back of the battering ram, increasing its speed as she would bash through the brick wall.

"BAM!""BAM!"

She was ready for what awaits them.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[21:58] Est screeches.
(Est Kang)
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[21:58] Ethan Hawke says, "..."
[21:58] Ethan Hawke says, "Probably that way."
[21:59] Emiri Taiyang says, "Hm."
[22:00] {NARRATION} The basin was left to the thoughts of the others. Ashera had other plans. The battering ram and the woman wielding it charge into what is little more than a bricked up archway, an addition to the walls of the structure that did not match the rest of the room. While the basin had sat awaiting a sacrifice, something else was shaking the room as it drew closer... and closer.

Until Esso and Ashera had heard its growls.

Until it was behind the brick wall itself.

And as the barrier between IT and the party came crashing down, Kalurex the Undead Dragon emerged, its wounds patched or torn away entirely as it was now reconstructed and reforged to end the lives of intruders.
[22:01] Esso Naam says, "Ah, this is a familiar sight."
[22:01] Noel Elisheva exclaims, "Familiar isn't the word!"
[22:02] Mikhaila Elisheva exclaims, "Is- is that the same dragon?!"
[22:02] Ethan Hawke says, "... Definitely."
[22:05] Despite the imminent terror this thing brings, Esso does nothing but grin, drawing his dagger. The thing's bigger than him, stronger than him, and maybe even smarter than him, but he injured it before, and he'll do it again.

"I see you've gotten patched up. I need to open that wing back up again!

He glances briefly back at Mikhaila before returning his gaze to the dragon. His next words are uncharacteristically venomous.

"We owe you."
(Esso Naam)
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[22:05] He emits soft, contented little thrums, eyes half lidding for a moment. He turns to try to do the same for Est-

Crash.

He doesn't hesitate. His left hand is hidden at his side, cut, but his right hand is perfectly hale, ready for battle as it grabs onto the blackened bastard sword with a single, massive grip befitting a demon properly. It bites into his flesh, the cold thrum of the accursed metal binding to it's master's aura.

He breathes, heavily, as mercury droplets float in the air around him.

His eyes go wide.

He slides backwards- To get room to charge, fully.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[22:05] "Great."

Holy magic began to manifest itself around Mikhaila in an aura. However, that was only the initial stage -- the magic went further. The holy glow began to intensify and deepen in shade while Mikhaila's blue eyes too, took on a similar shade. As the mana circuits under her skin began to glow golden as well, the holy aura finally crackled and violently erupted into one of pure energy.

"Maybe we'll finally be done with it this time."
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[22:07] It was a slightly familiar sight, though the beast was far less... alive than before. It seemed as if all the damage they had inflicted upon it had been reduced to nothing, torn away or patched up. The beast itself was far more ferocious than what the Wayfinder remembered; it wouldn't listen to his words a bit at that time.

Air was drawn in, his lungs filling up as his sparks lacking any color appeared around him. The world surrounding him lost all expression and hue, mana having its personality nullified and reduced to nothing. With his staff in hand and his body prepared for battle, the young man launched forth a blast of dark flames.

The magi that had found the beast out in the world was far from what Ethan was now.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:07] Following her muted screech, Eiphraem's ghostly ward pulled herself together and drifted to her lord's side, rolling along with the suddenly urgent fog at her feet. Her staff was gripped in her right hand, and by the time she took point she had multiple sharp needles of ice gripped between her fingers.

This was the dragon she failed to keep up with last time - but there were no elaborate high-speed chases to be had this time. "...Well, there's our exit," she muttered, pointing. "And..."

The mist swirled around her, the cold only becoming more oppressive and unforgiving with each passing moment. Go time.
(Est Kang)
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[22:07] Noel is in the process of tending to the cut on his hand as the flimsy wall is shattered by Ashera's might. If nothing else, she had saved them time and potential a potential maim.

But with such a familiar enemy now present for them all to see, their next line of action is clear.

They needed to finish what the army of Huangzhou started years ago.

And for some stupid reason, Elisheva's oldest son was smiling.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:08] And there it is. The undead dragon she'd heard tell of. To see such a creature lain low and then risen in a crude effigy, warped and twisted to the designs of a cruel master.

Really, it's better this way. Now they don't have to fiddle with the puzzle of the sacrificial basin, and now they can get down to business.

The ghostly Quetzal shrieks and fans its wings in rage to see one of its kindred so defiled. Ohtli joins in it its scream of outrage and fury, both of their aims clear- to lay the tortured soul to rest. Both dart in on feathered wings to right this dreaded wrong.

In this moment she does not allow her pressing age to hold her back from this sacred duty.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[22:08] As the brick wall came crashing down, the Kitsune was on his toes almost immediately. It became clear, eventually, perhaps even a bit too late that there was something on the other side of the wall.

What he didn't expect was the undead dragon that attacked them years ago. The same one..

"I see.." He said, pausing. "This is certainly the right place."

He puts his hands together. Focussing his chakra, Emiri begins to weave handseals near the speed of light - dozens within a matter of seconds.

"Raiton: Cloak of Faith!" He shouted into the darkness of the tower, a golden shroud of lightning covering his body.

And yet, it was like the glow he once sported intensified in these few moments. He reaches for Kagayaki on his back, pointing one of its blades at Kalurex.
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[22:09] "Raiton: Shinko no manto!"
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[22:19] Emiri Taiyang exclaims, "Zettai hoden!"
[22:19] Est Kang says, "WHAT ARE YOU SAYING"
[22:19] Emiri Taiyang exclaims, "RAITON: ZETTAI HODEN!"
[22:20] Est Kang says, "Oh, Raiton. I understand everything now."
[22:20] Est doesn't get it at all.
(Est Kang)
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[22:20] Kalurex the Reconstructed exclaims, "Wind Style: Rasen-Shuriken!"
[22:20] Est Kang says, "OH NO"
[22:22] {NARRATION} Mikhaila, Ethan, Noel, Ohtli, Emiri, Esso
Roll for 1 down each.
[22:26] {NARRATION} Mikhaila/Emiri/Ethan - 4 day temp
Ohtli - 1 day temp
Noel/Esso - Close call in your RP
[22:28] Emiri Taiyang says, "KIRI--aaagh..."
[22:28] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Esso Naam. ("Shoulder Gash", "Esso took a swipe from Kalurex the Reconstructed for Mikhaila Elisheva. While he saved the demiangel from being harmed, an enormous claw raked across his front and cut open his shoulder. Luckily it was only the tip, and the wound, while large, is not deep.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[22:30] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Ohtli Tezcacoatl. ("Minor Electrocution", "Ohtli was hit in the chest by a bolt of lightning from Kalurex the Reconstructed. The arc was nothing more than a minor blast, but it will leave Ohtli shaky for as long as the injury lasts (which shouldn't be long).", "Temporary", "Duration: Short (1 day)") **
[22:31] Ethan Hawke whispers: let me type my injury]
[22:31] Ethan Hawke whispers: because i already have]
[22:31] Ethan Hawke whispers: [the rough desc anyway]
[22:32] Never trust anyone who'll tell you fighting a dragon is easy; that's what Ethan learned on that day. Even after the leaps and improvements he made since the last time he faced the beast it meant nothing. His worthlessness was just about the same before its might, leaving him be somehow caught off-guard by the beast appearing inches away from his face, launching a strike with its tail dripping with acidic mana. It burn right through the skin on his left arm— the very same spot that had been completely destroyed by the forest beast.

Reito would be mad. How could he be so careless? She'd have to operate on the very thing she had gotten rid of days prior.

Ethan panted, remaining on the ground for a while after the dragon fell.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:33] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Ethan Hawke. ("Minor Burns", "Ethan got caught in Kalurex the Reconstructed's fire, and while he is a pyromancer himself, he was unable to avoid the undead dragon's inferno. Some minor burns roiled across his arm and will last for a little while.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[22:33] In a battle even more frenzied than the last, they clash with the dragon. The room is filled with hostile magic, and the artful dodger moves from spot to spot, darting in to hurt the dragon, then pulling out to avoid taking TOO much damage.

After an Adrenaline pumped battle, in the Dragon's final throes, it swipes frantically, scratching his chestplate, but narrowly avoiding doing more than that. His eyes shoot to Noel and Mikhaila, and while Noel manages to avoid the dragon's talons, Mikhaila does not.

Not.. AGAIN.

In an instant, the young man snaps across the distance, tackling Mikhaila to the ground, taking a wide gash across his shoulder, twisting through the air and slamming into the ground, cushioning Mikhaila from the landing. His injured arm falls slack to the side and he closes his eyes, exhaling through his nose and gritting his teeth as he tries to force the pain out of his mind.
(Esso Naam)
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[22:33] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "aaaaaaaaa"
[22:34] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Emiri Taiyang. ("Bruised Back", "Emiri was tossed into a pillar by a blast of Kalurex the Reconstructed's telekinetic might. While it did not shatter bone, the kitsune was left achy and bruised from the blow. It will last some time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[22:34] Waves of holy water and ice wash over the battlefield in addition to a wide assortment of others, aiming to protect and heal rather than attack the dragon directly.

It works fairly well up until the dragon becomes enraged by Emiri's foreign ways. Every handseal seemed to enrage it, and every incantation of declaration of an elemental affinity sparked a foreign rage that would be hard to find anywhere else.

The armored tail of the undead swings just over Noel's head as he bursts towards Emiri, hoping to save him. It was an extremely close call.

"Stay down! I'll heal you."

The medic makes his way over to his comrade, hoping to help him up!
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:36] Ohtli is still spry, for a sixty-something. She's quick on her feet and as she zips around on azure wings crystals sprout from the ground in her wake. Her and the spectral Quetzal work in unity and to great effect.

But the Drakan is not as spry as she used to be. When she should've gone right, she instead goes left and takes a bolt of lightning from the great undead dragon square in the chest.

She crumples, wheezes, and clutches at her heart. Oh...oh, sweet Spirits, is she having a heart attack? Her limbs can't seem to stop shaking either.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[22:36] Ohtli frantically presses life alert.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[22:37] Emiri shunshins away.. for now
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[22:38] Admin ChanceA: how do DMs set spendables again
[22:38] The fight was on, she could face the dragon again, but in an environment that definitely wasn't favorable for a fighter like her. Her best efforts consisted of high intensity bursts of energy in tandem with holy-infused winds to slice at the dragon's form. At some point the occultic winds ends up dragging Mikhaila a bit too close for comfort.

Her eyes went wide as she saw the talons coming.

She was about to get hurt again.
Why was it her? Why was it always her?
Seriously, why was she always the one to get hurt so badly?

Suddenly she finds herself tackled down. Gasping, she glances around -- she wasn't hurt? They had won?

"Esso, you-"
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[22:38] Admin Sodaman: i just edit using the shift click and edit the rpp they have
[22:40] Dungeon Master Scarlet Gensokyo: OH YEAH DM accounts can't access the debug menu
[22:40] Dungeon Master Scarlet Gensokyo: They have to spend negative rpp
[22:41] Ashera would charge towards the adversity before her. She would continue to take on the dragon once more. And would fight with all of her might. As many of her allies had fell, she would continue to fight on for them.

As she continued in her Arcane siphoning state. She would continue to assist in taking down the dragon. She would draw her blade. Stabbing through the tough and rigid armor. Slowly weakening the dragon as she attacked it.

As her Arcane attunement had increased her abilities, as well as helped to strengthen her resolve against her enemy. Even when her fears had over come her. Even when the pain of those that were killed from this monster forced her to grieve. So would continue to fight. And help take down the dragon... with Esso's assistance.

She would look towards the group. And would have a sense of concern for them. She had a sense to help and protect them. And they would suffer fighting against the dragon. She hopes that every would walk outalive in the journey...

"Is everyone alright? The dragon will pose a threat to us and the people no longer...."

She would say staring primarily at the injured.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[22:41] {NARRATION} The undead dragon was defeated once again, and as it drew blood and crippled those who stood against it, crimson ichor began to fill the basin. Steadily and surely it rose with each injury and each cry of pain until at last as the beast fell, it reached the grooved line.

A pulse of green light along the veins of the floor fired off, now crimson, toward the central chamber the party had first come to before entering this sacrificial chamber. Kalurex laid finished, dead, likely for good across the floor, but something had sent it, likely to die here.

But why?
[22:45] Admin ChanceA: the 'spend rpp' command?
[22:45] Admin ChanceA: is that what it's named?
[22:45] Dungeon Master Scarlet Gensokyo: Yeah, and then they have to "spend" a negative quantity to give RPP to the EC
[22:53] Admin ChanceA: ...Oh -
[22:53] Admin ChanceA: oops
[22:56] Eiphraem's mind begins to spin in the aftermath, glancing towards the basin.

His mind churns, unpleasantly, gripping at his chest for a moment, as he watches the basin. His hearts fall, a sinking sensation in his chest and lower coils alike as his massive claws drag at his coat- Covered in water, bone shards, and the aftermath.

He's paralyzed, for a long moment- Glancing towards the basin. He scratches, his brows knitting.

Breath flutters, and his sword arm hangs heavily. "... This-"

His fangs dig into his lower lips- Exposed, due to the adrenaline of combat, down from their sheathes in his upper gums.

He stares upwards.

"... Is everyone alright? We should have- Amelioration." He exhales, sharply. "I can assist. I think we are invited up."
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[22:57] Noel Elisheva says, "I think we're good to go. I've got Emiri."
[22:57] Ethan Hawke says, "..."
[22:57] Ethan Hawke says, "Let's-"
[22:58] Ethan slowly floated up to his feet, brushing the dust off his shoulder with his right hand.

"- get going."
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:58] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "...thank you, Esso."
[23:01] Esso lets out a groan, letting go of Mikhaila entirely. He reaches up with his now free hand and grips his shoulder next to the cut. His wounded arm moves when he tries to move it, so clearly it's not TOO bad.

"That's what friends do, right?"
(Esso Naam)
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[23:02] The Drakan recovers herself, dusting off dust and debris. She hacks, and coughs, and puts all her accoutrement to rights. All is well minus some shakes and jitters- and the fact that her hair stands on end as a result of considerable static.

Ah. But work. Work isn't done.

"Fine, fine. Just-" a twitch. "Fine."

Ohtli busies herself with the body of the dragon. Her head bends low and she begins a short prayer over the corpse of the fallen beast. Nothing too long that might leave them vulnerable.

When she opens her eyes again after brief contemplation, she reaches out to take one of the fallen reptile's teeth from its head. In the aftermath, perhaps, she can make sure that its spirit has been properly laid to rest after this ordeal.

"We should likely be on our way, yes."
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:06] {NARRATION} Returning to the main room, the party found the northern door now adorned with one red rune and two green ones. The red glow was, of course, attached to a vein that ran into the room they had just come from, while the other two extended outward to the western and eastern areas.

A chilling breeze came from where the tunnel they'd entered through had been as if something was trying to show them that the wall had sealed itself shut.
[23:07] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Well...the path is clear, it seems."
[23:07] Ethan Hawke asks, ".. Which one next?"
[23:07] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "The other two rooms hold the key to continuing."
[23:07] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "Flip a coin?"
[23:07] Eiphraem Kang says, "..."
[23:07] Eiphraem Kang says, "East."
[23:07] Esso Naam says, "I'm with Eiphraem."
[23:08] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "East then."
[23:08] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Let's get to it."
[23:08] Est Kang says, "East it is."
[23:08] Noel Elisheva says, "East-east."
[23:09] Ethan Hawke says, "East-it."
[23:09] Ashera Ixis says, "Lets go."
[23:10] {NARRATION} Entering through the east door, the party found a similar sight as before; a circular room with something in the center. Though where the basin had been in the southern area, now there was simply a raised platform covered in white coals and burning, green fire.

Any pyromancer or spiritmancer could recognize that this was no ordinary inferno, and meddling with the dancing flames could very well prove harmful.

Among the fire, all could see a locket with an L, steadily burning but never melting, out near the center. Along the side the table read;

Sacrifice of Possession
The way cannot be opened without loss.
[23:10] Esso tears a piece of his coat sleeve to wrap it around his shoulder. He seems to be having trouble doing it with one hand though.
(Esso Naam)
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[23:10] Ohtli reaches over, giving poor Esso a hand- but also twitching and potentially making a mess of things.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:10] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "...I would be wary of that fire, by the way."
[23:11] Ethan Hawke says, "..."
[23:11] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "More sacrificing. I'm noticing a theme here."
[23:11] Est strolls into the room, pushing the door open.
(Est Kang)
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[23:11] Esso Naam says, "Pain, possession. I wonder what's next."
[23:11] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "I suppose we'll find out."
[23:12] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "If no one else has something they want to give up...I have something I can attempt?"
[23:13] Esso Naam says, "I'll be the first to suggest we cut the knot."
[23:13] Esso Naam says, "Try putting it out with water."
[23:13] Esso Naam says, "I doubt it'll work, but we gotta try stuff anyways."
[23:14] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "No. I will tell you now, that's probably not going to work."
[23:16] Ethan looked at the flames for a few moments, a light frown adorning his features as its appearance and overall feeling was... Way too familiar. Green fire, some heat and the idea of losing something.

"That fire's... something else."

The Wayfinder's right hand shifted lightly, perhaps his type of magic could be useful there. A single green magical circle was cast forth from his fingertips, the first of an array of many others. Netherworld - the primary command that established a connection between the physical realm and the spirit world. If there was anything that belonged to that parallel plane within these flames, then the circle was sure to react in some sort of way, right?
(Ethan Hawke)
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[23:18] {NARRATION} The fires stir in reaction to Ethan's wayfinding, his magic attracting some heat and attention by what would otherwise be a non-living bed of flames. Perhaps it's a warning.
[23:18] Esso Naam says, "Alright, maybe we shouldn't wantonly use magic in here."
[23:18] Ashera Ixis says, "Mmm..."
[23:19] The Drakan casts her gaze about to the others before she starts to reach for the second sword on her back- the far less fabulous one, the blade of mithril that she's more typically seen with.

She admires the little smiley facing etching on its hilt, what truly makes it a work of art in her eyes, and looks back up to the brazier.

Ohtli approaches the bed of coals. Unless someone stops her?...She offers up the treasured sword, the last gift of a long gone friend, into the fire. And she does so with a heavy heart.

"...I'm sorry, Auggie."
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:19] Ethan Hawke says, "-"
[23:19] {Item} You drop Newbie Pants.
[23:19] {Item} You picked up Blue Mythril. Dropped by Ohtli Tezcacoatl. .
[23:20] Esso protectively grips Fulgur Mico as Ohtli tosses her mithril weapon into the fire.
(Esso Naam)
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[23:22] Ashera would Take a look at Ohtli's sacrifice. Giving the woman a nod. If only there was something of value she could give up as well she had thought.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[23:22] {NARRATION} Blue Mythril is cast into the green flames. They coil and lick around it until the fire appeared to take it in toward the center where the locket lied as well. They burned brighter and the sword's metal began to react to the heat. Parts peeled away and melted but the solid artifact remained present, in its own inanimate object Hel.

A fired red light was emit from beneath the table and down the vein toward the central room.

The deed was done.
[23:26] The Drakan watches what was possibly one of her greatest material treasures, full of years of sentimentality, vanishes into the flames. It reappears in stasis, out of reach but still observable.

Several bright, vivid memories flash through her mind. Kinder ones. Pleasant, even.

She hangs her head. It hides a few shameful tears that manage to leak from her eyes

"...We ah...We should continue. Yes?"
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:27] There seemed to be a certain emotional weight to Ohtli's gesture, heavy enough for Ethan not to mess with the fire any further. His lips parted but no word came out as the metal of the blade seemed to be ripped from itself. Watching the older woman tear up like that was something he didn't really expected or really wanted; it really was enough of a sacrifice for the door to open. If that kind of emotional bond to the blade was equal or greater than the pain the collectively felt with the undead beast from before then...

".. I'm sorry." He muttered towards the winged woman, offering one hand on her shoulder before nodding, moving towards the corridor after a few seconds of silence.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[23:27] Noel makes his way over to Ohtli once her sacrifice is through, a hand reaching out to lightly pat her on the back. For as long as he had known her, she had that sword. Parting with it was not an easy thing to do!

He sympathizes with the Drakanite and then prepares to continue, Emiri likely still with him despite the kitsune not being mentioned anymore after this particular post.

"Thank you, Miss Ohtli."
(Noel Elisheva)
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[23:29] The ghostly woman shudders, her blood running colder than usual as it dawned on her that, had she been able to drag her most important possession around, it might have been her tossing something into the fire today. Empty black eyes shift to Ohtli, looking just a little bit shinier as she bowed her head.

She doesn't say anything - Noel and Ethan are quicker on the draw - but the sentiment is there.
(Est Kang)
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[23:34] Esso has no sympathetic words or gestures; Noel and Ethan have that covered. As he watches the sword join the locket out of reach, and Ohtli's obvious pained body language afterwards, he doesn't even need to see her tears for his muscles to tighten as he grits his teeth.

A flame that was once small inside of him grows as those closest to him suffer at the hands of this tower. Esso grips the sheath of his dagger so hard that it hurts him, but he doesn't let up. Blood is starting to soak the make-shift bandage tied around his shoulder, but he doesn't react to it. He looks up at the ceiling as if looking through all the stone that this tower is made up of, glaring at the Ghoul King he pictures in his mind.

Though he doesn't open his mouth to speak, his thoughts are clear. The Ghoul King is going to pay.
(Esso Naam)
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[23:36] Ashera would walk towards the woman. As she would close her eyes at the sight of that. The woman before her was brave. And had resolve within her actions. Not many would part with a sacred blade of one close to her. And even less destroy it in front of them.

She would walk towards her and pat her shoulder. Using the power of the lifestream to attempt to soothe the woman. What she needed at this time was comfort in loss. And she would try her very best to do so.

"That was very brave and selfless of you Ohtli… We all thank you for your brave sacrifice.... This will not be for vain. And the person behind this atrocity will be punished for it. That's a promise."

The krausite would say, giving a not towards the drakkan.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[23:55] Ohtli re-steadies herself and engages in the time honored tradition of many of her Order magi predecessors.

She takes a deep breath and shoves down her feelings. There is work to do, treasured sword or not. The Drackan clears her throat, dabs her eyes, and casts one last look of longing towards its hovering effigy.

"Thank you, each of you. But there are greater things at stake. Let's get the lead out, hm?"
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:59] {NARRATION} Onward to the final, western door the party went. On their way through the central chamber they would all see two of the runes were now a brilliant scarlet, the final of the three that glowing emerald.

The west door lead to another, circular chamber identical to the other two, though this time there was nothing but a single obelisk standing high from floor to ceiling. Nothing was left behind this time, not a hand nor a locket, and the eerie air that already felt as though someone was creepily watching increased tenfold.

Upon the obelisk, these words were etched:

Sacrifice of Secrets
The way cannot be opened without truth.

[00:00] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Well..."
[00:00] Esso Naam says, "How ominous."
[00:00] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "It...-seems- straight forward?"
[00:00] Esso Naam asks, "The question is, what sort of truth does it want?"
[00:00] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "I'm assuming...a secret?"
[00:01] Est Kang says, "...That is /abysmally/ easy, if it is straightforward."
[00:01] Out of all the doors this one seemed to be the scariest. What were they supposed to do? Stand there and stare at the thing? Ethan lips parted, head tilting as he felt a chill run down his spine - forcing him to stand straight once again.

"What's... That?"
(Ethan Hawke)
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[00:01] The Drakan has only more and more frowning for this latest inscription. She's got a secret or two, certainly...

But after giving away her sword, hopefully someone else can field this one.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[00:01] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "I'm assuming it has to be something of great magnitude."
[00:01] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Otherwise it wouldn't be a sacrifice."
[00:01] Ashera Ixis says, "A secret."
[00:01] Ashera Ixis says, "Hmmm."
[00:01] Ashera Ixis says, "Alright...."
[00:01] Est Kang says, "...Anybody have anything juicy? I mean- I do not think my /one/ secret amounts to very much."
[00:02] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "...-Only- if no one else has anything to give."
[00:02] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Spirits, please."
[00:02] Est Kang says, "No, no. Sit this one out."
[00:03] Est Kang says, "...Though I do not think the obelisk would be particularly interested in hearing about-"
[00:03] Esso Naam says, "I don't know if I have a secret big enough to trigger this."
[00:03] Est glances in Eiphraem's direction.
(Est Kang)
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[00:03] Esso Naam says, "I'm pretty open."
[00:04] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "At least any secrets I have to give are involving people that are dead or gone. But really, let's see what you all can come up with."
[00:05] Esso Naam says, "My biggest secret for the longest time was my relationship with Muchom, but that's already public knowledge at this point."
[00:05] Est nods to Esso. There is understanding. There is camaraderie.
(Est Kang)
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[00:05] Esso turns his head away and mumbles the next part.

"But that's decayed a bit since then."
(Esso Naam)
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[00:06] Noel Elisheva says, ".. Sorry to hear that."
[00:06] Noel Elisheva says, "Uh.."
[00:06] Est stops nodding. There is no longer understanding. There is no longer camaraderie.
(Est Kang)
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[00:07] Esso shrugs his shoulders.

"Hard to be in a relationship with someone you almost never see. It may live or it may die depending on if she disappears for another few years."
(Esso Naam)
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[00:18] Ashera would slowly take a hand. And would touch the obelisk and would close her eyes. She would take a look towards everyone and back. She would really be deep in her feelings at that point.

"Everyone believes that I have everything in check. But that couldn't be farther from the truth. Every day I wake up I wonder about my kids. And how I never was able to BE with them enough because I was to busy trying to protect the others around me, as well as serve the will of lifestream..."

Ashera would close her mouth as tears would slowly show.

"I even missed my sons wedding, as she had given Layla his hand in marriage... Even worse, my lack of attention towards Nasu has lead him to push me and Ume away as he acts brashly and injures himself... And Aaliyah has slowly felt the same.... I wonder if I am a horrible mother for continuing to keep up my duties... Because I secretly feel like my kids are suffering for it... As I fear Yusha will follow the same fate....""

Ashera would slowly cry.

"Another thing... I feel the weight of the lives close to me. I continue to fight for what is true in this world... Only to wish that the suffering from those close to me will slip my grasp... Like Varick and Izabell has... The pain of that loss is why I try to fight... Why my resolve ever breeds true... My guilt was soon turned to will to keep fighting... Though I wish I could have saved my goodbyes for them before they left me....."

Ashera had said. Tears rolling down towards her cheek. This was her brutal honesty. And she had felt the need to get that pain off her chest. Even if the obelisk had rejected it. She would wipe her tears. Feeling the weight of her secrets diffusing... She felt she had to get it off her chest to eventually move forward in life.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[00:21] {NARRATION} With a flash of red the obelisk flared. The light traveled up the vein and out of of sight as it reached the central chamber. A shudder indicated that the entryway that lead higher into the tower was opened, and with it the air became all the more foul.

The burdens of the three sacrifices the Ghoul King forced upon the party were heavy to bear, but they had proven themselves all the same. The question still remained, however, as to who had suffered these tests beforehand? And what sort of fate had they found up ahead?
[00:22] {NARRATION} [Pause Here]

[19:33] A dreadful sensation coursed through Ethan's body before he could even react to Ashera's confession; her deep insecurities and the truth she couldn't deny was something that hadn't been shared, even towards him who had been trying to help one of her younger ones. He'd have to talk to her about the pain in her heart when they'd be out of there. For now, the magi couldn't help but look in the direction where the line of their accomplishment lead them. It wasn't with his eyes that he was observing, but with all of his senses.

A horrible taste in his mouth, a foul smell invading his nose, a thick, warm and humid sensation coating his skin, an endless darkness that dimmed even the light of success they had managed to make shine, and a silence that indicated nothing but doom was overwhelming the room.

This was no good.

"I.. think the door's open." He said,stating the obvious. As if compelled by curiosity and duty, the young Wayfinder advanced towards the main room - towards the northern door.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[19:33] Admin Vaeryne: Does someone have that?
[19:33] Admin Vaeryne: I'm currently in an event.
[19:34] Admin AnMouse: I'll get it.
[19:34] Admin Vaeryne: Thanks, Mouse. Let me know if you need backup.
[19:35] Eiphraem's eyes rest solemnly on the blade he recognized.

His hand rests idly atop Ohtli's shoulder, a bit too large to be particularly subtle in the moment. His eyes lock on, his expression somewhat difficult to read.

He lacked particularly for fear at the moment over concern. He speaks in quiet tones, his voice thrumming in the air.

"... That- Mm. Will you be alright?" His tail faintly flicks, eyes half lidded, before his head turns- Gazing over the others almost apologetically.

"If it opens the way- I suppose I could try-" His voice is a bit low, brow furrowing as his grip hardens unintentionally on the Quetzal's shoulder- Claws dig in, slightly.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[19:39] Admin AnMouse: It wasn't him doing anything, the drag was actually just bugged. No issue at all.
[19:44] The final sacrifice is made, completing the first three trials. It's hard to mistake that distant shuddering for anything but the door opening- though she does briefly consider the unfortunate possibly that it's the far-off rumbling of some other beasty.

The Drakan sniffs the air with her nose wrinkled.

"A fair guess...We should move on," she mutters.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[19:44] Noel stops short of the door leading to the final hallway, his eyes fixated on the last of the runic gems as it shifted in hue to match the colors of the others.

This was it. They were moving beyond the undead dragon and painful trials and on towards the Ghoul King's inner chambers, yet they didn't know much more than they had when the journey first started.

The L-shaped locket and the missing hand we things that he wanted to inquire further about, but.. to who? Only time and further investigation could feed the lot of them the answers that they were looking for.

".. Was there another hero? Someone that braved these trials alone?"

Up they went, into the murky and foul tower where nothing but danger waited for them.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[19:45] Ohtli Tezcacoatl asks, "There is no saying they were alone...is there?"
[19:45] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "We're a group, but we've only had to make one sacrifice in each room."
[19:46] Eiphraem Kang says, "Perhaps we could recover the pieces- Once we have taken this place apart."
[19:46] Eiphraem Kang says, "... If they died, it could be a worthy magi to consult the spirit of."
[19:46] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "...True."
[19:46] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "...I wouldn't mind having my sword back either."
[19:47] Esso Naam says, "I had the same thought Eiphraem."
[19:52] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Well...there is nothing keeping us from taking the hand that was left behind."
[19:52] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "As macabre as it sounds, I could make a connection from it if that's something you want to pursue."
[19:58] Ashera would wipe her tears. As she slowly began to find new resolve within her honesty. To her, it was good to release her tension as well as her burdens that she have to carry...She would find a new faith within her sacrifice. As it was made to help the others go on safely. She wouldn't like the others having to reveal what they bare close to them. And have they end up losing that in the process...

Ashera would slowly grip upon her blade. As she would grip her fist. She would try to realign with her attunement once again, Slowly easing herself with her abilities once more, now the action feeling more fluid and natural than before. When the allies and the lifestream surround her, she serves them with all her heart.

The paladin would slowly look forward, as she would see the gateway slowly proceed to open up. She would slowly command the life energy around her to slowly siphon out the foul smell that was dwelling from within the air. The stench of corrupt occultismwas becoming very irritating in her heightened state of mind...

Ashera would then take a look at the inside of the ghoul kings dungeon... He had very so planned this to have the people around her killed. The Ghoul king understood that they were coming. And Ashera, would hold him accountable for his depraved actions.

"Let us march forward. With our heads and out spirits high. The Ghoul King has attempted many time to end our lives. But very soon. WE will have him accountable for his actions...."

Ashera would say continuing to walk and siphon the depravity.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[20:00] {NARRATION} The central chamber revealed the northern door had finally opened. The runes that were written across it surface and once glowed a bright green were now a violent red that gave the room an ominous ambience. Eiphraem had detected it upon a closer study of the magic that thrummed through the mechanisms, but now all could tell that it was something terribly twisted.

A kind of binding that shouldn't exist in this world. No demon nor simple necromancer could have constructed the inner workings of the Skeleton Tower, but the answer to what DID weave these terrible spells into bone and earth remained a mystery.

The party had no choice but to continue onward, given the three doors to each sacrifical chamber were now sealed shut.
[20:01] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "Onward and upward then..."
[20:01] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "There's no other way."
[20:02] Ethan Hawke asks, ".. Stay close to eachother, yeah?"
[20:02] {NARRATION} The final doorway opened up to a large staircase that narrowed and spiraled. Higher and higher it went from one level to the next. Doors along the way were closed and locked tight, and even if significant effort was made in trying to open one, the one trying would find the metal heating up or chilling to a freezing temperature as a way to disparage any further pushing.

Whoever was watching the group was guiding them right to where they wanted them to end up.

Finally, the stairs stopped, and a long a landing that stretched on into the dimly lit shadows of an atrium, all could make out a single figure; a sandy haired boy lying across the stone floor. White and red robes were covered in blood and were torn in several places.

"Welcome, welcome, one and all..." came a voice from the shadows. "You'll have to excuse Leon, he tried to start without you."
[20:05] Admin Notyel30: was ken killed or
[20:05] Admin Notyel30: actually that would be a revive check one sec
[20:05] Admin AnMouse: That sounds like what happened.
[20:06] Admin AnMouse: Nope, sounds like he just got sent to a blackscreen.
[20:06] Admin Notyel30: nope; no prompt for revive comes up.
[20:06] Admin AnMouse: Try sending him to spawn.
[20:06] Admin Notyel30: i'll send him back to spawn
[20:06] The wretched scent of death only grew stronger as the spiraling stairs guided the group up to the heavens. The young man brought his right hand up to his mouth, covering his nose in an attempt to quell the horrible feelings that forcing their way into his heart. A chill ran down his spine as they finally reached the top of the stairs.

Dimly lit, barely visible— save for for the dead. Just what was going on? How long had this 'Leon' been up here and what happened to him? It seemed to click rapidly for Ethan, the inside of his lower lip bitten in a show of anxiety.

The hand.
A pendant with the letter L.

.. It couldn't be, could it?
(Ethan Hawke)
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[20:06] Admin Notyel30: Their spawn is 'Nagual'
[20:06] Admin Notyel30: and a black screen.
[20:06] The prostrate form is passingly familiar to her. It takes moments for it to register- the others likely knew it better, as she'd only seen it once before in the assault on Gehenna's Dreadwoods.

What mattered, however, was keeping the boy out of harms way. If he was even still alive.

Her mother-hen instincts kick into overdrive. One claw draws her sword, the other makes a pulling motion through the air. A corresponding pull of force tries to tug the fallen Leon closer to their group and towards safety.

...She hopes a little too late it's not trapped. Oops.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[20:07] Admin AnMouse: Send them elsewhere and have them /setspawn somewhere else.
[20:09] Est... struggled with verticality. Her physiology wasn't particularly conducive to rising; her fog preferred to stay close to the ground, and she with it. It was with some difficulty, then, that she climbed the stairs manually - with her own two feet, slowly and arduously. Each step was tentative, as if she wasn't sure if her legs would break down into mist on contact with each stair on the way up. All the while, she used her frozen staff like a cane.

"I hope... there are no more stairs," she muttered, perhaps slightly too late to be tonally appropriate. Though Leon's injured or dead body was the only visible thing in the atrium, the near-blind Est took slightly too long to pick up on it. Once she did, though, she supported Ohtli entirely. While she attempted to telekinetically drag Ohtli to safety, Est waved her hand, forming a ring of sharp icicles which hovered around her - pointed into the atrium, prepared to fire off like a chaingun at the first sign of something wrong.
(Est Kang)
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[20:12] As they ascended the steps of the tower, the Kitsune himself tries to open door after door to no avail..

He knew something was up. They were enchanted- they weren't meant to be opened, only to be passed.. As they continued to move, the Kitsune feels himself on high alert.

He had to use his staff as a support now- his back bruised, despite Noel's help, made it somewhat difficult to do his best here. Emiri had already considered that this it was a bad idea for him to press on, but the doors were shut. There was no longer a chance to leave.

His eyes fall onto Leon as they finally enter the last room. His heart sinks.

"..I see." He speaks, pausing. He stares at the fallen figure with the sandy hair, frowning.. "Leon.. I'm sorry we couldn't come sooner."
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[20:12] Admittedly, he does tug- Getting frostburned lightly on his fingers stops him from scrabbling for more than a second, before ascending fully.

Warmed water surrounds his hand, and the demon is a bit difficult to scald with heat or frost for very long. His flesh has unworldly tenacity.

However, at the sight that the very individual they had likely been callously speaking of as dead still on the floor.

Eiphraem's sword is back in his hand in an instant.

He had seen the young man before as well throughout the assaults- Lips purse, pupils adjust, and in an instant, he's likely at the other side of those charging forwards. If it was a trap, they might as well ALL run face first into it.

His blade held carefully to the side, he flanks to cover- Est might find herself 'yanked' on slightly, as the demon calls the air moisture with him, mists roiling as he tries to establish the area around the fallen young man as in his sphere of influence.

Hopefully, it would make him a more appealing target for immediate reprisal than Ohtli.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[20:12] Tears swell in the corners of Noel's eyes at the sight of the youth from the Dreadwoods. The one lad that Noel had actually considered to be more heroic than the forces of Huangzhou and Gehenna combined for the way he bravely launched himself forward to lead the charge that day.

The final blow that Noel had gotten was only possible due to Leon's sacrifice.

He knew that they had been guided here. That it was likely a giant trap, set up for them to walk into and give the Ghoul King the upperhand. And yet.. he starts to walk forward as if he did not have full control over his body.

"We have to help him, Ohtli! Eiphraem, he went through all of that on his own! We have to.."

His aura begins to flicker around him, but the closer he got, the more obvious it became.

If the hand was too far gone to be healed, and it belonged to Leon, then.. it was already too late.

The Elisheva stops in his tracks and loses that prismatic blessing, struggling to not be the one overly-emotional warrior in the group crying over spilled milk.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[20:13] Mikhaila hardly recognizes the form in front of them. She had recalled a boy being injured in one of the initial attacks on Gehenna by the undead horde, but was it him? Was it that boy? As those questions raced through her mind, Mikhaila instinctively walked over towards him along with the others.

Though seeing as everyone was ready and actually able to help, Mikhaila silently stood on guard.
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[20:14] Esso sidles behind most of the others, taking each step at a carefully paced measure. He hasn't quite reached the top before the voice starts, but he peeks out from behind those ahead of him just in time to see the corpse ahead of them as the voice speaks of how he tried to start without them.

Like Ohtli, he recognizes the boy vaguely from the attack on Gehenna, but his main concern is less on the body and more on the voice echoing out from the shadows. He's hyper-aware of the room before him as well as the stairs behind him, not quite sure what direction the, for now, bodiless voice might decide to manifest himself.
(Esso Naam)
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[20:24] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "b"
[20:29] Ashera would see that the final doorway would slowly proceed to open up. The krausite paladin would be more than alarmed by the sound of the ghoul kings voice.. She would slowly proceed to glare at the source ow what the voice was coming from. As she would grip her blade and her fists..

Only for her eyes to follow down to the corpse of Leon... her eyes would shudder as his body would just lie there... The Krausite paladin would lower her head as she had grit her teeth... She would see...That the ghoul kind would set him up in his game..He wasn't killed outright due to the wounds....

He was tortured....

Ashera would slowly speak as she would allow her resolve...To slowly take over to become will... A will that is beyond that of which she wasn't able to attain previously.. The arcane would slowly burst around her.. as she hid her tears in front of her allies...

"I won't....Let you...Get away..With THIS!..."

H-how dare you. Scrutinize his life like that..You...Will pay for this!....I will....Make you...Suffer for your injustice!"

"I will never forgive you for what you have done....All the people you have killed...All the lives you have taken....."

Ashera would stare at him. Fully attuned with the lifestream around her. Maintaining a deeper sense of concentration.. She could feel extreme buzzing from the man. And would continue to glare daggers at him.

"Heed my words Ghoul King....I am the hope of many....I AM the answer for all those that and cry and scream for solstice.. I am protector of the innocent, living and passed... I am the light that over shadows the darkness..."

"I am JUSTICE! And your crimes for your punishment are DUE!"

Ashera would yell. Bolstering her will against him. She would not leave without bringing him down. Nod one bit. Ashera would run towards the figure. not bothered by any other things in the world. All her arcane focus. As in defeating this man once and for all.


(Ashera Ixis)
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[20:30] {NARRATION} Ohtli's telekinesis was met with an equal opposition, one that tugged back on Leon's body and forced it upward. The young man was held in the air, his arms held outward so that he was presented to all before him. Leon's left hand was missing, and his hair covered most of his obviously beaten and bloodied face.

A groan echoed forth, ensuring all could tell he was alive.

"Ah... if only it were that simple." came the malicious voice from the shadows again. "Show them what you are now, Leon." A level of chaos stronger than Ohtli's own arcane forced the drakan's influence back. Leon was dropped to the ground where he caught himself by his only remaining hand.

He coughed and shivered before a slow rise to his knees brought him back to eye level. Through dark and hallow eyes and skin torn away from his face, the young man who had once so bravely fought against the Ghoul King stared down those who had come to see the end of the Undead Scourge.

"L-leave..." he muttered, as if it was all he could muster. "Go. PLEASE."

The temperature in the room grew colder and a number of other undead emerged from the shadows, primed and ready to strike. They came from the corners, from the alcoves, from the darkness that enveloped the space.

"Justice?" came the voice, followed by a hollow laugh. "You are weak. Pathetic. You have only condemned yourself to a fate worse than death."

"He's part of my army now," said the voice again. "As small as it's become... but with the rest of you joining it... maybe I will fall into the good graces of my Master once again."
[20:35] The sight of a man that seemed to be dead rising up from the ground was... Uncanny. His pleading and the fear in his voice only pushed the idea that there was a definitely lack of control on his part. This was hell, truly. They had no choice but to fight back against this, didn't they? The warmth of his flames couldn't even clashing against the cold of the air in the area. Ethan's teeth came to a grit, his heart pounding like never before as the threat of death seemed truer than ever.

His staff was summoned forth, his body surrounded by colorless sparks as he readied himself for a battle in this pitch-black world of theirs. Puppets deserved to be saved.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[20:36] And just like that, his fears become reality as what's left of The Ghoul King's small army of undead steps out from the shadows, and just like that, his dagger is drawn, but this time in his right hand considering the gash on his left.

The voice hadn't revealed themselves yet, but they have enough to handle now.
(Esso Naam)
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[20:42] The sight of Leon being nothing more than a reanimated corpse to carry out the will of the Ghoul King is something that causes a wave of actual anger to roll up his spine. He should have been able to tell! Maybe he was just tricking himself into believing that there was still a chance.

Regardless, that aura of his flares out in full force once he comes to terms with what needs to be done.

"We aren't leavin'. I wish we could have helped you more when you were alive. But if this is the reality we are faced with.."

He pauses for a few moments, conjuring the blade made of ice into his hand.

"Then the greatest mercy we can grant you is putting your tormented soul to rest." Waves of holy water start to splash out around him, lubricating the atrium-bound battlefield for what was to come.

Which was a lot of pain on both sides and lots of bones rattling, more than likely.

The Empath is prepared.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[20:43] Emiri could feel his soul quiver in the room- watching as Leon suffered, while they tried to save him in what may have even been his final moments.

His grip on Kagayaki tightens, the Kitsune pushing off of it as he stands at his best.

"No- No, Leon.. We will free you." He spoke. The Kitsune breathed slowly as he shut his eyes.

He needed power. He could feel his own self waning away in this moment.

"..You will pay tonight, fell necromancer." He spoke. Emiri's tone shifted immediately. He places his hands together, gathering all of the chakra possible. The glow around him almost seemed to recede.. He was gathering.... his power!!!!!

"I will pass judgement, and understanding of your crimes, like no other, Ghoul King."

..And then, all at once, it burst outwards. The waning glow around him was now an intense, radiant light in the darkness. The lightning grew around his body. It certainly helped everyone see the undead as they drew from the shadows. In the short time he could gather his power, he began to weave as many handseals as possible. The final one causes nature to grow in the darkest places, and his magic to intensify.

"Mokuton: Shizen no handan!
Raiton: Shinko no manto!"
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[20:44] "Weak?"

The demon's voice is cold- As the Ghoul King's strings yank Leon backward, binding his soul and body alike in shackles, the serpent's force collates- Every breath in the room drawing a soft cloud in the air.

"You underestimate her- And you certainly underestimate the force set before you. You think yourself a puppetmaster- You are no more than a wriggling larva, playing with human ends like a juvenile with toys. How much did Arthur leave you with, I wonder?"

"... It's such a sad delusion you have any power now that such a trick is gone- Do you believe should not be fleeing? Do not worry," His voice comes out thick, his fangs down. "It's far too late for that now."

"..." A deep breath in-

Don't destroy the boy.

The serpent's telepathy rings out, even as he saves his breath, charging to carve through the empty, suffering shells as he DARTS forwards, leading the charge. Disable him. He isn't beyond some semblance of saving. He's still conscious. We can give him DIGNITY and CHOICE.
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[20:44] The Drakan Elder with the bleeding heart tries and tries and tries to win over the telekinetic battle with the necromancer. To no avail. The boy yet lives and offers a faint spark of hope, even in spite of the pleas otherwise.

Then she sees that he's one of the fold now, just as the Ghoul King claims. A young man who'd only wanted to do the right thing twisted and warped to fit the mold of the necromancer's army.

Her hope falls flat, then is replaced by a flash of searing hot anger. There are few things that can make her feel such potent fury, but the corruption of something pure and well-intention? Surely that has to be on that list.

It's not the weapon she's used to, not the trusty blue mithril sword that Auggie had made for a clumsy young Drakan; the Nyeshk longsword is heavier, more awkward, but it will be no less effective at balancing the scales again, at returning things to the cycle they ought naturally to be a part of.

Ohtli bellows and charges, evidently unconcerned with the fact that she may be making herself a target.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[20:45] Their efforts to save the young man were fruitless much to young Mikhaila's display, for he was already dead- or dying. The words spat at them send a chill down her spine, but alas, she would not run -- she couldn't run, for she was here for a purpose just like the rest of them. As a squad of the damned encircled them, Mikhaila let out a visible breath before brandishing her spear -- the device on her left wrist guard expanded clockwise, section by section until it formed a full on shield.

An aura of pure, holy energy erupted around the young woman as well. Her eyes were lit with a certain kind of fury.

"I'll try, but I really don't think there's anything to do to save him other than... well..." She looked to the approaching dead.

"...plus, they all look similar too."
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[20:46] And there they were - those same faces, those same enslaved peasant soldiers, yet again. Est let out a short gasp, followed by an audible crack as her grip on her staff intensified and briefly shattered the ice that made up the length of it - before it quickly reformed. The sight of the banjo-toting farmer, in particular, inspired the spectral girl's eyes to narrow. There was some recognition there that was evident in her gaze - though perhaps it was just that she recalled him from the previous enocunter.

Or...

"I'm glad I came," she said, voice on the verge of growling as her staff nearly cracked yet again as she took a few careful strides forward, slamming her staff into the ground like a cane with each step. The ring of icicles moved with her, vibrating as if they were on the verge of firing off. "These are... still my people. This was always my responsibility." Once again, she didn't care about the voice of the Ghoul King; she was concerned purely with freeing as many of these tortured spirits as she could. Just like in Crafthold, she might as well have been deaf to the mastermind here.

Her people. Her burden. It was, after all, a task befitting someone who would have been part of that undead army, had things gone just a little bit differently.

Obsidian eyes scanned over the rapidly appearing army, before landing on the farmer again. Her staff rose and she performed a few experimental plucks at pantomimed strings, perhaps in acknowledgement - and her ring of icicles fired off, all at once. No hesitation this time.
(Est Kang)
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[20:51] Ashera would slowly look towards the undead leon. She had unfortunately knew that this evil was coming. She had griped her blade. Tearsing still soaring down her eyes at this atrocity.. Things such as this is why she had wanted to continue to fight on.

Ashera would point her blade towards leon She would be disgusted at what they had done to him... A boy who had believed in fighting for the good of his people, is what had lead him to be given an unfortunate fate... She would not stand for this injustice.

She would speak towards the man. As she would be infuriated at the atrocities that had been occurred here.... She would look towards eiphiraem and would speak to them.

"He will be set free, and put to rest... He is no longer with us.. We will give him the rest that he truly deserved..... There is no saving what is left of the krausite. Only to be set free.."

Ashera would say, Siphoning out the occult stench from the air without even knowing... The paladin would rush towards the three. Bent on putting them to rest, and burying the bodies of the lost... She is now within her goal. And is concentrated on doing it no matter what...

Ashera would do what she had come here for.. Cleanse the depraved actions of the ghoul king. Every. Last. One.
(Ashera Ixis)
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[20:52] {NARRATION} Leon struggled against the necromancer's calls with every hero who spoke out against the Ghoul King. He held his held as he tried to restrain himself, tried to fight back, but it was clear his suffering was immense.

More undead marched forth, axes and swords at the ready. They outnumbered the party 3 to one and yet... they held.

"Arthur..." came the Ghoul King's voice. "You think I speak of Arthur?" another cold cackle. "No... no no, the rotting Lich gave me life but he could NOT bring about all of this." A flare of that terrible red light thrums through the lining of the room, another wave of that horrid power.

"My failures in Gehenna... at the walls of Huangzhou... they were setbacks, but I always played my part. I always did what was asked of me!" he shrieked, some poisonous anger dripping into each word. "Die. DIE. DIE AND BE PART OF MY ASCENSION!"

Another wave of the arcane sent the first handful of skeletons shambling forth, and it even broke two into pieces. Leon let out another groan, and then began to scream. "You can't win here!!" he cried out, tears now streaking down his undead face, "You don't even knOW--" an ear splitting scream halted all speech from the fighter as occultic lightning cracked out of his wounds. Where an exorcist's storm once existed, Leon was now an envoy of darkness.

And as he screamed, blackened energy burned forth and spilled out of his eyes. His halberd was forced into his sole hand, and with the rest of the legion, he charged forth into icy missiles and violence.
[21:02] Esso passes his dagger from his right hand to his left, wincing and pulling the make-shift bandage tighter.
(Esso Naam)
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[21:03] Est isn't doing any of this tactics stuff - she's singularly focused on the farmer, still. It's personal, or... something.
(Est Kang)
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[21:04] Emiri Taiyang exclaims, "Mokuton: Jinsei no kaju-en!"
[21:12] Emiri Taiyang whispers something.
[21:17] Est Kang whispers something.
[21:18] Punished Dean whispers something.
[21:19] {NARRATION} Esso - 2
Est - 1
Ethan - 1
Mikhaila - 2
Noel - 1
Ohtli - 4
Eiphraem - 2
Emiri - 3
Ashera - 3
[21:19] Mikhaila dabs
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[21:21] {NARRATION} Eiphraem: 12day temp
Ethan: 1day temp
Emiri: 12day temp
Mikhaila: 12day temp
Est: 12day temp
Ohtli: perm
Ashera: perm
Esso: 1day temp
Noel: 12day temp
[21:23] {Item} You drop Newbie Boots.
[21:23] {Item} You picked up Broadsword. Dropped by Punished Dean. .
[21:23] {Item} You drop Broadsword.
[21:23] {Item} You picked up Newbie Boots. Dropped by TattlesDM. .
[21:29] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "a"
[21:31] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Est Kang. ("Occultic Smoke", "Within her misty form, Est has taken in a significant amount of occultic smoke as a result of being focused by the shadowflame undead Dean. While his music was once a source of joy, the smoke now billows and twists within and both burns as well as weighs down Est's physiology.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[21:31] Emiri takes a long drag
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[21:32] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "plz be gentle"
[21:32] Ohtli Tezcacoatl says, "my old frail bones..."
[21:33] Punished Dean says, "Clickity clack what the fuck are you on about."
[21:36] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Ohtli Tezcacoatl. ("Leon's Suffering", "In her fight to save Leon's soul, Ohtli was assaulted by a particular brand of occultic energy magic the undead hero was forced to utilize against her. While most of the injuries were on the outside and marked down in burns and cuts, while caught up in a massive blast before his death, Leon passesd on shattered memories of his time within the Skeleton Tower. Ohtli will suffer these visions in dreams and in moments of weakness for the rest of her life. Within them she will feel the boy's loneliness as he left his locket behind and removed his own hand, until he was finally face to face with the Ghoul King and someone else who was even more corrupt.", "Permanent", "Severity: MODERATE (-20 Vit)") **
[21:38] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Noel Elisheva. ("Energy Gash", "Noel was battered by the one handed Leon. With a single swipe of his halberd laced with occultic energy, the demiangel was cut across the front and his right cheek. While the cut isn't too deep, it bled a lot and will leave a nasty scar.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[21:40] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "ewwwww"
[21:42] ** TattlesDM has inflicted an injury upon Eiphraem Kang. ("Back Slash", "Across his back Eiphraem is now sporting a massive injury that would be permanent against any human magi. Leon took advantage of Eiphraem's blindspot within their fight in the Skeleton Tower and slashed across the demon's back with a swing laced with occultic energy. It cut deep and bled a lot but is definitely treatable.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[21:47] Despite his attempts to keep it together, Esso clashes again and again with the multitude of skeletons. He proves far less effective in this battle compared to the dragon, but this battle saw a far more dangerous opponent leading it; one which they still hadn't seen physically manifest.

Esso puts up a good fight, but he ends up tossed aside after a literally rib-crushing constriction by one of his opponents, and he hits the ground, dazed between this injury and his last. The rest of the battle passes in a vague haze before he recognizes their victory over the small army of enemies. Sadly, nobody came out of it without a scrape.
(Esso Naam)
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[21:48] After the initial volley of icicles which struck out against the rank-and-file undead soldiers, Est rushed in, Est giving up her slow, cane-aided walk in favor of skating along the ground on blades of ice that formed at her shoes; with no regard for tactics or her own personal safety, she rushed toward Farmer Dean. Est wasn't particularly strong; she couldn't truly contend with the undead banjoist's occult flames, but she was going to try.

Each icicle that emerged from the mist melted instantly in the face of such intense fire, and though the ghostly woman's winds scattered what flames they could, she was still outclassed - and she couldn't quite control the smoke from the fire either. It quickly merged with Est's own ever-present aura of mist, strangling and throlling it and seeping into Est herself as well.

There were downsides to being a vaporous phantasm, from time to time.

"I know you're..." she paused, wheezing for a mmoent, "Not actually in there- but..." Her iceskates melted, and her staff maintained its shape only by virtue of the powerful magic coursing through it. She stumbled forward, maintaining her physical form as best she could, and stopped in front of the undead farmer.

"...This... this is all I can do for you," she muttered, pushing aside the flames with her wind one last time, raising her staff, and shoving it straight through Dean. One twist of the icy weapon prompted spikes of ice to shoot out from its center and damage the skeleton beyond repair, putting him down for good. It was the only way to guarantee he wouldn't come back again.

"...Thank you- for teaching me how to play," she whispered, pulling out her staff and stumbling away from the impaled skeleton. She fell backward into a seated position near the fallen farmer, pulling up her knees. She only stared at him as the rest of the group took care of the remaining army. Flexing her fingers and forming icy picks on her nails, she took hold of the banjo - and played it, just like he taught her all those years ago. It was a slow tune, a bit tentative like she was rusty and hadn't picked up an instrument in over a decade, and about as sad as a banjo tune could sound.

And, once she was finished, she set it down between her and the skeleton, took a deep breath - inhaling more tainted smoke - and fell back the rest of the way, passing out.
(Est Kang)
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[21:52] Admin Notyel30: (Nope rather.
[21:53] As the group of nine clashed against the three main undead, and their legion of the skeletons, the Kitsune does his best at what he excels in- dispelling the legion!

Kagayaki is twirled, before being tossed into the air. Emiri forms ten hand seals in a matter of three seconds, and anyone trying to track his movements would be left dumbfounded as the luminate Kitsune did his work.

"Raiton: Saigo no kyusoku."

Kagayaki goes into the air, reaching high before bursting into a thunderstorm. A golden cloud illuminates the darkness of the floor as bolts of lightning and holy magic rain down, putting down the lesser of Ryan, Dean, and Leon's army.

But even so, it was very clear that Emiri was the weakest among everyone else- being taken to his knees multiple times.

All he could hear was a sweet, dreadful song. The Counselor hated it.

He slammed his hands over his ears. Emiri shut his eyes.He wasn't strong enough for this. Not at all. The haunting song continued to play, and even at some points, it burned. He searches for his walking stick- his weapon, his staff.

"Make it stop.. make it stop.. please."

But he cannot find Kagayaki, instead reaching for Dean's banjo as Est places it beside his fallen corpse. Emiri had been beaten and battered so badly that he could barely walk. The instrument is used as support.
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[21:53] A hard-fought battle unlike any other. That's what was waiting for the group when that puppeted being rose up from the ground. Flames of occult and cursed waters spread far and wide on the battlefield, peppered by blasts of crimson energy. Despite all of that the group prevailed. Their might was greater than the challenges ahead of them and bit by bit they pushed their opponents back.

Skeletons were quelled, undead were eradicated. The whole party was falling left and right, leaving few to endure what was to come. Ethan's gaze narrowed upon the high-energy Leon— determining that if they could defeat him, then the rest would fall easily. His right hand reached out, green mana erupting from his fingertips as a spell was cast on the go - a portal leading from his position to energy-wielding magi.

He stepped up before spotting something beneath the green light that lead towards the puppet - something he couldn't quite stop. It was too late to do anything, leaving the Wayfinder with no other option but to seek out the nearest person: His guardian angel.

"Noel! Use the portal and take h—"

Before he could finish his sentence his mouth was sprayed with a thick, dark liquid, sending him right down towards the ground twisting and heaving, turning around to face the dimly-lit floor in order to puke some of the cursed waters. Heaving and weezing were the only encouragement he could give, hoping that the young white-winged one would manage to finish it all.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[21:55] The angel-blooded woman let off bursts of pure energy that ripped through the horde of undead, completely causing some to explode while others were simply reduced into ash due to the amount of holy energies coursing within her shots. Mikhaila kept herself deftly swift with the use of holy-imbued wind magic, weaving through any mindless stragglers while also making sure to keep herself away from any attacks that would prove detrimental to her health.

Or she tried to, at least.

Again, her combination of energy, holy and wind magic isn't quite enough to keep her protected. While flying across the battlefield, Mikhaila's attention was far too glued to one of the three enforcers -- the young woman could only barely register the attack in the corner of her eye before it was too late. Unable to shield herself in time, Mikhaila is struck full-force by a wave of magic let off from Dean.

The wind is knocked out of her as she's sent careening across the area they were forced to fight on. She's dazed and injured, but not completely out of the fight. With slow movements, Mikhaila watches the results of the fight.
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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[21:58] The battle is hectic, a scramble as the undead throng comes washing down on them. Swooping, diving, using the unwieldly Nyeshk blade to hack apart bits of the undead. All the lesser corpses are felled, cleansed, and returned to death. As it should be.

As Eiphraem had wanted, the last one to remain was Leon. All that remains is to subdue him once and for all.

In the Drakan dives before being swiftly and brutally being driven back in a splendid detonation of occultic magic. It sends her, scorched and lacerated, tumbling tail over tea-kettle through the air and against the cold, earthen floor with a thud.

A crumpled heap of feathers and scorched armor, the Elder struggles to rise. Rise she does. Slowly.

Nothing is broken, nothing burned too terribly and no great, gaping wounds. But she trembles, shudders, and chokes back deep, pained sobs as a hand comes up to cover her mouth. Wherever her head is, it is not in the fight.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[21:59] The battle felt like it lasted ages. The group had thrown out everything they had and then some to combat the combined might of the tormented Leon and those that crawled out of the woodworks with him.

One by one, the undead entered the fray but it seemed as though they were able to combat them at twice that pace. And somehow, it still wasn't enough.

"Remember what Eiphraem said! We can still help Leon-- maybe."

Noel practices what he preached, freezing a small group of advancing ghouls to ice and then washing them away with a surge of holy water. The smooth harmony of shadow based flames and umbretarn from two of the stronger undead causes a problem for the lot of them as well, scorching and intoxicating the group as they went on. But with the Ghoul King so close, Noel wasn't willing to give up! And luckily, others felt the same way.

The main issue was how hard it was to get in close enough range to Leon to actually deal damage.

Noel ducks and dodges the powerful waves of magic being thrown out until Ethan does what he does best and creates an opening for the demi to use.

"Right! One Winged Wayfinding special, coming right up!"

Noel conjures a spectacular assortment of golden swords around him and then leaps into the green portal, only to arrive on the other side with his arms and wings spread wide. "Leon! I won't give up on you, and that means you shouldn't give up either! Stay down so we can help you!" And then the swords rain down one after the other, all targeting the floating energy magi. But rather than trying to pierce and destroy him like they had the general back in the Dreadwoods, the focus is to pin the man to the ground so that Eiphraem could carry out his plan.

The attack comes at a cost, though. A waywardslash of energy catches Noel in his fall, causing a large gash to be opened up from his cheek to his eyebrow. Blood flows freely as he falls to the ground with a thud, aiming to see if their teamwork had worked out.

Also, he suddenly realizes that Leon is Noel backwards.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:01] Eiphraem moves.

His fighting style is as ingracious in pitched battles such as these as ever- He hides himself amidst a smokescreen of pearlescent fog, darting to and fro to strike violent, thrashing swings, a hand a half weapon meant to be held in two hands by a man, being held in one by the demon.

It isn't so much force he prioritize- He relies on the antimagic properties of the weapon to sever and disrupt, going in when he sees launched blasts of black magic threshing out, taking arcing, carving swings with his blade to try to peel them away from targets like the kitsune, or Ashera- Striking in tandem to assist.

He IS used to functioning in a unit.

One time, however, a pass is caught already sliding along, he can't turn in time as Leon finally predicts the force of the serpent, and his jacketing is punched through by the raw, sizzling force of occultism striking him.

He SHRIEKS as the blackened energy catches himdown and across his shoulder- And he rolls, hacking in violent arcs with his darkened weapon, momentum from his absurd speed carrying him still forwards-

But he tumbles, on the sleek trail he leaves, rolling into a heap.

But a streak of vibrant fuschia is left along the ground, as the serpent struggles to get himself back up, his tail lashing and smashing into the stone of the tower as he's caught up in the pain, his vision going blurry.

Stunned, at least momentarily, from his flesh being corroded, it leaves him dangerously vulnerable...

Before Ethan's portal gives Noel the opening.

It'd bring it all to a crash.

He'd have the time to try to right himself-

But what would unfold, in that final crash of heavenly blades, impaling and pinning?
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[22:02] Ashera would continue her will to fight. As she had continued to fight on. She would face off against her enemies. Slowly facing towards Dean first. She would dash towards him, as she had learned to continue on fighting against the adversity before her.

The woman would fight with all her will. Using her blade to once more pierce the enemies flesh. She would then see that Leon and the other enemy was being slowly handled.. Though this was a grave mistake on her part.

Ashera would slowly be met with a cacophonic blast that would leave scarring tissue upon her arm.. The blast would leave Remains of pure depraved occult all over her body. As her harmony was being muffled with the cacophony blast... Forcing her Harmonic attunement to dodge those spots... Even with her heavily injured self.. She would get up. And would rise into the air. Making a wall of earth to wall run on...

The knight would then reach the pinnacle of her height. As she would be heavily injured. Often in worse shape than the people around her.
Though she would dash towards the ground Hitting dean with one feil swoop. The buzzing sound coming from the man and would finish the attack in one final blow.

The woman's sword would be glowing a brilliant light. As she would dive towards the undead. And would slice the undead in half... This was her special ability. She would Scream:

Sacred Sword: Avalonian Heavenly halberd!
(Ashera Ixis)
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[22:04] {NARRATION} The undead fell, the last of the Ghoul King's personal force. Dean, once a farmer, was finally put to rest, his banjo given to a new owner. Leon, a hero seeking justice for his fallen family, was left unconcious upon the ground, his halberd left alone beside him. In his final moments awake, as his mind was consumed with occultism, he had a pause of clarity as he soul left his cursed body.

Familiar faces who had fought alongside him each time the Undead Legion attacked had come to fight, and as they defeated the dozens that were sent their way, Leon felt some faith rise in his chest. He smiled, but given the circumstances, it was unrecognizable and far more reminiscent of a grimace. "Thank... you..." was all he managed to get out before he was launched back into a wall and knocked unconcious.

The party was ragged, tired, and injured, but their enemies were piled up in a circle at their feet. The red glow flashed again, angry this time, and from the ceiling a figure descended, one dressed in blackened armor that was adorned with terrible green accents.

"This is it then, isn't it?" the Ghoul King said, the defeat already in his voice. A long staff that ended in a silver bell rested in one of his hands, and through his blackened skeleton teeth came a long, hiss like sigh.

"It doesn't really matter... you'll all be wasted away soon, whether I am there to watch or not. I left my mark upon Agartha." His red eyes drifted off toward the wall. "And defeating even me is FAR from the end..."
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[22:09] Est slowly awakens, rising to a stand and once again using her short staff as a cane with which to support herself. Given Dezmerak is the immediate threat right now, she has yet to notice that Emiri stole her banjo.
(Est Kang)
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[22:10] Ethan offered a small pat towards Eiphraem's back, using his cold, oddly-textured body to rise up from the ground. A small smile is offered to the archon. A weak smile. This...

Wasn't good.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:15] Noel slowly rises back to his feet, one eye shut tightly due to the large gash running up it. His vision was certainly not where it should be, but they had to keep going. Stopping now with such an awesome enemy before them would be the end of everything! Probably.

"We'll see about that, King of Ghouls."
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:16] Esso climbs to his feet as if the fight's over, but he'd forgotten the most important thing; the voice manifests itself before them in all his intimidating glory. Esso's trembling, but he raises his dagger regardless.

In order for this to end, they HAD to deal with this one. Then, and only then would they have a chance to breathe.
(Esso Naam)
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[22:22] He drags himself back up, wobbling.

The wound wouldn't CLOSE, but it clots together even as the dark magic seeks to rend and re-open; Occultism was the magic of fallow fields, of the inhibition of regrowth, of final ends and destruction.

Even if Eiphraem lacked the resistance and natural attunement to stand amidst the carnage unchecked, the long lived beast wasn't apt to stay down- He grasps onto Ethan, hefting him up and half bracing in turn.

A soft utterance, shaking head head- With an almost undignified, positive reply from the demon. His eyes narrow- And he smells the blood in the air that isn't his own...

"... You can surrender, you know." His voice barely echoes above a whisper.

"It doesn't have to hurt. None of this was necessary. It never was. It never needed to be. I wonder- Is that why you did all this? Revenge, that would go down in the history books in a way you never had while alive? Promised a legacy?"

"To fight the enemies from life, with a passion and direction Arthur failed to give? Do not worry, I think- I understand your patron."

Softly, he quietly places a bottle into Ethan's hands, covertly- A skilled person might see he's trying to buy a good ten, fifteen seconds, as he slides over in front of Emiri- Blade drawn, keeping his right hand holding it visible, while his left moves...
(Eiphraem Kang)
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[22:26] Ashera would see the face of the ghoul king before her... Even the buzzing and stench would supersede her own injuries.. She would take out her blade. Using her Arcane connenction to attempt to soothe the occultic wounds upon her body. Allow her Harmonic connection to run freely...

Her deep meditative attunement and her commitment to taking out the ghoul king before her. She has never witnessed something so depraved and evil in her whole life... She would feel her anger in the beings injustice....

She had worked her whole life into defeating the depraved actions of the Ghoul king... She has worked her absolute hardest to defeat the kings armies... And would strive towards serving and protecting others from the corruption for her...

She has been tested on her resolve tried and true.. And would continue to march forward... Even in the state that would pain her the most... She would continue on to fight and put an end to the depravity.

"Ghoul King! Your tyranny, your suffering... It will end HERE! Agartha will be able to rest once again! And you will be punished for your CRIMES!"

Ashera would point her blade, charging towards him. This toll on the lifestream would be released, and the people will rest easy at once.

(Ashera Ixis)
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[22:27] Ethan grasps the bottle in his hand tightly, a small nod being given to the archon in the process. He'd wait for the right moment to use this one - letting an enemy see your intent and what you're capable of was the best for a disaster to happen. The concoction in his grasp reminded him of years back - twelve to be precise. Back then everything was much scarier. He had fought Nethradin to save his own life and Shizuko provided him with the very same brew.

The kind that could mend any wound.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:28] He continues to use the banjo while he searches around, even wholly ignoring the Ghoul King as he speaks. Emiri does not know what to do.

He's weak. He can't find Kagayaki.. As they prepare for what's hopefully their final battle, however, the Kitsune finds..

.. potion!

.. and Kagayaki on the ground! Directly at the feet. The fool. As he consumes the potion, he can feel his bruised back fixing itself- the song of the banjo coming to a rest.

"..thank you, Eiphraem." He spoke.
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[22:28] Est is also weak. She can't find the banjo, either, as she prepares for what's hopefully their final battle.
(Est Kang)
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[22:29] {NARRATION} The skeleton's eyes somehow narrowed at the archon. "Don't pretend to understand me, snake. I was NOTHING alongside Arthur, nothing but a thrall. I found someone else, someone better, who gave me EVERYTHING I asked for."

The final undead shuddered and shook its head. "No. Surrender isn't an option. Surrender would mean true pain, true obliteration." The Ghoul King clinked his staff against the stone floor and a chilling, occultic wind spiraled forth. Water and grime ascended off of the fallen soldiers and coiled around the belled weapon.

"I was promised more power than you could ever understand. And even if I died here, I contributed to Agartha's end."
[22:36] Emiri Taiyang says, "MOKUTON FOUR PILLAR HOUSE JUTSU"
[22:36] Est Kang says, "Oh. You. You stole my banjo."
[22:39] ** Ashera Ixis has inflicted an injury upon Ghoul King Dezmerak. ("Temporary Injury", "Temporary Injury", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[22:41] {NARRATION} Emiri - 1
Mik - 1
Ohtli - 2
Esso - 2
Ethan - 2
Noel - 1
Est - 1
Eiphraem - 1
Ashera - 1
[22:47] {NARRATION} Ohtli - 4day temp
Mikhaila - 12day temp
Emiri - 1day temp
Esso - 4day temp
Ethan - perm
Est - 12day temp
Eiphraem - 12day temp
Noel - 1day temp
Ashera - 4day temp
[22:49] Ohtli Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[22:49] Ohtli Tezcacoatl whispers something.
[22:49] Est was far too concerned with the banjo - cruelly stolen by Emiri while she was unconscious - to truly give it her all. The injury gained while putting down Dean, too, only made it more difficult to move. The fog was heavy now, and without that feeling of weightlessness she was all too sluggish.

All she could really do was play support - and so play support she did, limping around the edge of the room and launching spikes of ice from the mist that gathered around her, trying her best to contribute without drawing unwarranted attention. But, still, invariably - she went down in one of the most embarrassing ways impossible.

Walking straight into Dezmerak's lingering gravity field. It pulled her forward and she hit the ground hard, her icy staff shattering down to its base components of an orichalcum core and bits of mythril conduit as it hit the ground. Est's pitch-black eyes looked at the shattered weapon for a moment, then back to the rest of her group still fighting, and...

...opted to stay where she was. Est had fallen, and she couldn't get up.
(Est Kang)
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[22:51] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Eiphraem Kang. ("Death's Frost", "With a dangerous amount of ice encased around one of his arms, Eiphraem was nearly permanently injured by the Ghoul King. With the aid of his allies, however, he was able to keep the limb, though it was nearly frozen to the bone. Through his healing capabilities the demon will heal it back, but it will take a long time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[22:51] As the group battled against Dezmerak, Emiri begins to form handseals as fast as any other magi here can use their magic. His illumination does not wane- and the lightning magic he possesses arcs across the room.

He does not accept defeat. Not anymore. He wouldn't squander on the gifts given to him.

"Just as I told the last undead who tried to kill me," Emiri started, forming dozens of handseals within seconds- gathering his chakra for a final blow..

"My glow is my radiance. Proof that Jiuweihu won't let me fall." He spoke. The ox, the tiger, the ram.. All types of seals are formed by the Kitsune as a golden cloud grows through the room- it brewed with thunder, though it was closer to a dim sun.

"As long as I have faith, I cannot fall. I live and breathe for her."

It was like sunlight began to peak through the clouds, even as they stood in a dark tower.

"..And now, I banish you. I invoke.."

He watches as a fell blast of dark magic makes its way towards Esso, behind everyone - but certainly fatal. Even as the artificial sunlight peaked through, and the glow around him intensified, and it was like the light began to gather from one point.

"..Shunshin!"

Instead of going for the kill - the finishing blow, he disappears in a flash of light. Emiri and his illuminated aura disappeared from the room, only to reappear before Esso and take whatever blow may have spelled his end.
(Emiri Taiyang)
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[22:52] This was it, wasn't it? The final battle - the one against the Ghoul King that had terrorized all of a Agartha for far too long. A foul being that wretched of death itself. Between the exchange of spells and the powerful blasts of arcane energy blowing away spell and caster alike the fight only grew more violent. Ethan's wounds had thankfully been healed by Eiphraem's gift, though, leaving him apt to fight at his near-fullest.

As the battle raged on the young man used every opening he found to strike back, taking heaps of damage from the chaotic forces crashing against him and rising back up again. This was a tough one. He couldn't afford to mess around—

And that's about when it came. The opening he was looking for, the moment that could end the fight once and for all. He took a deep breath, hoping for the best before his left hand reached out forward, casting forth a portal that brought him right behind Dezmerak in the midst of one of his casts. That very same hand reached out for the Ghoul King, taking an undying grasp on his cloak and letting his magic do the trick.

The being would not only feel a single Ethan holding onto him but multiple - no matter how much his vile aura rotted and destroyed the Wayfinder's arm it wouldn't falter - the grasp remained as the illusion persisted through thick and thin, giving anyone the opportunity to finish it off.

.. This would most definitely damage the young man's left arm. Death magic was not to be trifled with.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[22:53] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Est Kang. ("Crystallized Mist", "Fragments of Est's form have begun to solidify, but not in the way she would want them to. The Ghoul King's ice magic was so potent that it overrode some of Est's innate ability to control her own body. Occasionaly her smoke and mist will freeze into solid chunks of ice that float around like hail that isn't entirely under Est's control. This effect will wear off over time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[22:53] After mustering himself for the final battle, the bloodied human glares down at the ghoul king, the one from which all the problems of this place stems. Everything he has to say adds up with what Elisheva had to say, and after a brief glance at Eiphraem, he dashes forward, weaving in and out of combat to deliver chinks to the Ghoul King's body. Even bones would come apart with enough stabbing.

Unfortunately, his speed doesn't keep him from being bowled over, and as the stray blast that would be his end arcs towards him, he can do nothing more than tighten up in an attempt to block the blow..

..but the blow never hits. He heard it connect, but he doesn't feel it. He hesitantly opens his eyes, looking in front of him at the councilor who'd saved his life.
(Esso Naam)
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[22:55] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Ashera Ixis. ("The Ultimate Plague", "If Ashera was not attuned to the Lifestream itself, this sickness would be her end. She is alive only because of the light within her that fights against the plague the Ghoul King himself infested her with. This illness will induce every kind of symptom imaginable, but it will only last a short while. It was intended to kill quickly, and Ashera's power to survive it will ensure she comes out on top.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[22:56] The bout was every bit as intense and impossible as one would expect a duel to the death against the Lich King to be.

Rather than fighting necromancy or depraved arts, it felt like they were fighting death itself - and it was proving to be a battle that they could not wiggle their way out of without catching at least a taste of it.

Noel fights at a distance this time, doing what he can to maintain focus with blood flowing over one of his eyes. His offensive talents are lacking, but his healing and defenses are more in tune than ever.

"Every hit feels like it is rattling my soul or somethin'. We need to finish this, Etha--"

Ethan was already in motion, and so was Noel. The holy water magi glides before Est and Eiphraem, casting a large bubble-barrier as he does so. He was in no condition to deal any finishing blows in his current condition.

But hopefully, he could keep the center of his brother's world safe.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:56] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Noel Elisheva. ("Broken Leg", "In his fight against the Ghoul King himself, Noel was cast into a pillar by a massive wave of telekinetic energy. The blow fractured his shin and will leave the demiangel crippled until it heals or is treated.", "Temporary", "Duration: Short (1 day)") **
[22:57] Noel also breaks his leg on the way over.
(Noel Elisheva)
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[22:57] Est drags herself over to Noel, slowly.
(Est Kang)
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[22:57] Est Kang whispers something.
[22:57] Est Kang whispers something.
[22:57] Noel Elisheva whispers something.
[22:58] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Ethan Hawke. ("Rotted Arm", "Ethan's left arm has become rotted with Death Magic by the Ghoul King. He fought valiantly against the great enemy, and was able to land the final blow while suffering this injury. His arm will be near useless after this unless treated in some way by a masterful surgeon.", "Permanent", "Severity: MODERATE (-20 Vit)") **
[23:00] Est Kang whispers something.
[23:00] Est Kang whispers something.
[23:00] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Ohtli Tezcacoatl. ("A Dozen Cuts", "Ohtli was left with dozens of cuts across her body by the Ghoul King's mastery over occultic winds. The air sliced clean through her armor and clothing and left its many marks. Her blood spoke volumes of how little things can add up quick, and while each one will leave a light scar, they will all heal over time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[23:00] Noel Elisheva whispers something.
[23:00] Est Kang whispers something.
[23:00] Noel Elisheva whispers something.
[23:01] Est Kang whispers something.
[23:02] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Emiri Taiyang. ("Broken Arm", "With a blast of telekinetic energy and occultic winds, Emiri was sent clear through a stony pillar by the Ghoul King himself. The crash broke Emiri's arm, but he was able to continue fighting on against one of Agartha's greatest enemies. It will heal in time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Short (1 day)") **
[23:03] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Emiri Taiyang. ("Icicle Gut Stab", "Emiri took an icicle to the gut for Esso in the fight against the Ghoul King. A volley of the sharpened spears very nearly killed Esso, but the kitsune jumped in front of them and took one to the stomach. Luckily it didn't pierce anything vital or else this wound may have spelled Emiri's end as well. It will heal in time, and will leave a nasty scar.", "Temporary", "Duration: Medium (4 days)") **
[23:04] Emiri Taiyang exclaims, "Agh! I need a medical-nin!"
[23:04] Mikhaila Elisheva says, "scre"
[23:05] ** Ghoul King Dezmerak has inflicted an injury upon Mikhaila Elisheva. ("Occultic Tremors", "While Mikhaila's holy magic was forced against the terrible might of the Ghoul King, she was forced back time and time again. While the party ended up victorious, the occultic influence that broke Mikhaila's resolve will leave her with the shakes until they are treated or wear off. She will be plagued with some visions of darkness for some time.", "Temporary", "Duration: Long (12 days)") **
[23:06] Ashera Would grip her blade. Fighting against the ghoul king herself. She would match from blow to blow. Consistently getting hitting against the enemy. She would continue to slice through the depraved ghoul king with her blade.

Ashera would continue fighting on with her injuries.. She would have never failed to keep on going to fight for good. And she would take every measure to make sure of that... She would continue to carry on Timing her strikes against his scythe.

Ashera would have her resolve in check. She wasn't just fighting for one person... She was fighting for all the people that had died due to him. From every country, mercilessly slaughtered... For All of the animals that had died because of the Kings selfish plans to destroy Agartha...

The krausite paladin was given an opening. As she would give it everything that she has this time around, as her stamina was slowly leaving her body.. And so was her attunement towards the Arcane wearing off soon. She would walk as she had spoken, picking up speed slowly after her final words towards the ghoul king. As his plague was slowly damaging her.

"Ghoul king...This is for all of the animals that have been slaughtered by your tyranny..This is for all the innocent lives that you have willingly taken without a single thought.. For Leon... And the lifestream…"

Ashera would dash towards him, going for one final lethal blow She would yell:

"BE JUDGED IN THE NAME OF THE JUSTICE!"

Ashera would utter, Stabbing the Ghoul king within her torso... The arcane magic spilling over would begin to damage the depravity around him, slowly causing the king to collapse.. As his death magic would slowly be removed.. The lifestream would feel a great draining presence be removed from it as the Ghoul king would die.

Ashera would slowly lean on her blade collapsing As well... It had taken everything to take him out. As she would slowly move out of her attunement.... Huffing heavily as her injuries would impact her...

"We did it... In the name of justice...For Agatha... We have saved and avenged the lives of out brethren… Thank you all for this...."



(Ashera Ixis)
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[23:06] One final fight, and the addition of the blessed mask makes the affliction left in the prior battle's wake at least...tolerable. Her mind still wanders when it oughtn't, unfocused and catching glimpses of memories that were not her own. Visions of torture, pangs of loneliness and despondency while being left to rot in the dark.

Between that and her occasional twitching fits, she probably shouldn't be flying. But fly she does, zipping hither and yon as her battered body allows.

The gales of occultic winds that roll off of the Ghoul King are her undoing and, with a shrill, nigh-reptilian shriek all of her body is lacerated by the razor sharp winds. Even the proud sun-motif breastplate she wears is rent in places, in addition to her coat and leg plates.

The mask atop her head is knocked free, making it all the worse, but she still fights on. Ragged, beaten, bruised, bloodied, and rattled. There's no other option.
(Ohtli Tezcacoatl)
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[23:10] Emiri Taiyang says, "for agatha..."
[23:10] {NARRATION} The fight was fierce and it was long. The Ghoul King was not an enemy to be underestimated, and while the Skeleton Tower left its mark on each and every member of the group, the Ghoul King pushed them to their limit. With the powers of a dark winter and the chaotic mastery only the truly vile could wiled, the Ghoul King roared.

"You don't understand." he spat as a blast of winds and sharpened hail cast Noel and Emiri through a stone pillar.

"None of you understand!" He froze one of Eiphraem's arms in solid ice.

"You'll all die! If I don't kill you, my Master will!"

The room shook and broke around them amidst the battle. The floor was blasted through and cratered several times, until finally Ethan seized the Ghoul King and thrummed his own illusion magic into the vile leader's mind. The undead screamed and fell to his knees, and his Death Magic very clearly killed Ethan's living limb. But he was forced to nothingness, forced to the ground where he shook and trembled into his true death.

Before a final, undead breath could be taken, a beam of crimson light fired downward from the ceiling and pierced Dezmerak's chest. It spread and burned the Ghoul King into nothing but ash, and before the source could truly be detected, the ceiling broke. Something had punched through it, leaving a flurry of black feathers that fell to the ground around the crippled group.

All was still and quiet, and the Undead Legion was finally defeated.
[23:12] Est Kang asks, "Who... who stole Ashera's kill?"
[23:12] Est Kang says, "Rude."
[23:12] Ashera Ixis says, "Nope."
[23:12] Noel Elisheva says, "...."
[23:13] Ashera Ixis says, "I Just stopped him from having a brain aneuriys."
[23:14] {NARRATION} A spire shard was left within the Ghoul King's ashes, likely corrupted as it was binding his life together. His staff was left behind as well, and the arcanium that made up the veins that provided a conduit for the dark magic of the Skeleton Tower could be picked up and taken home.
[23:14] Ethan stepped back and away from the Ghoul King after he vanished in a flurry of black feather.

.. That is if he could. In reality the young man was far past his limit. How had he managed to keep himself up was nothing short of a miracle. The rotted arm that held onto Dezmerak couldn't stop the Wayfinder's body from hitting the ground, his body falling face-first towards it.

And into a pile of rocks. Ouch.
(Ethan Hawke)
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[23:14] {Item} You drop Shaman Staff.
[23:14] Est struggles to reach out, hand hovering over the remains of her staff. Slowly but surely, ice forms over the orichalcum orb and bits of mythril that make up its 'skeleton'. It's imperfect, but good enough to use as a cane as she pulls herself to her feet.
(Est Kang)
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[23:15] TattlesDM says, "..."
[23:15] Est Kang says, "how fucking greedy do you have to be"
[23:15] Noel moves to collect a few of the blackened feathers as they fall around the group, still trying to grimace through the pain of only being able to see through one eye.

A certain name leaps from his mouth after he studies them for a while.

"Isaac."

But that didn't make sense. Isaac's limits were far below what the Ghoul King was capable of. He looks to the shattered ceiling above and frowns.

".. The Fallen Angel."
(Noel Elisheva)
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[23:20] They won.

They really won. Mikhaila was left on the ground in the aftermath, but even then she could manage a little smile. Even if she was a little better off than her comrade, the angel-blooded girl was left a pale, shivering mess.

She managed to croak out some words.

"...w-we did it, we really did it." Some of the dark energy pulsing within her made her shudder rather violently. "Great job... everyone."
(Mikhaila Elisheva)
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