Azrael's Treasury

A party gathered and a journey to the coasts of Agartha. Not much was to their surroundings. Their eyes would have more than likely been to the ruined door within the cliff that cut the coastal beach from the rest of the land. It seemed to have not survived the test of time by it's condition. Perhaps they could slip past it if they so chosed. Or destroy the door if they wished. It seemed fragile enough for the brash action. Perhaps to be wary of the carvings. Seemingly the work of a rune scribe. They glew dull, however. It'd be a surprise to any runescribe how such a thing could still be any state of activation.

Regardless... They were to do something here. No rush, however. This place has been here awhile.

It can sit a bit longer...

As usual, Arthur would bring his own undead for such occasion- as a matter of fact, a whole dozen of these, because he no longer trusts any expedition attempt to go absolutely smooth, not to mention the constant danger of the traps around them.

"Stay on your guard."

"Remember, the places of power like this oft have numerous traps to them, and the potential to fall victim to an ambush. Do not rush ahead, and allow my servants to explore first."

Though, the first mark upon their expedition as they sailed here was the door - possibly, leading somewhere in particular, which means they must investigate. But should they really?

"You two. Inspect the door." - he addresses to his Undead, all while the examines the work infront of him. He was a fairly experienced runescribe--

-- and perhaps inspecting it would give him an insight?
(Arthur Rowan)

Gideon looked towards the door that stood within their view, As the Oscuri drew closer he'd keep a good distance away from it recognizing but not understanding the runic symbols that decorated the base of the lump of metal.

He'd turn towards Arthur wondering if his skill as a runescribe improved enough to be able to transcribe this." Can you read this Arthur? If we can figure out what this is perhaps we can avoid springing a trap. " As Arthur used his undead to examine the door he would use his is own legion to swarm around searching for any hidden treasures or perhaps alternative routes they could take if the door turned out to be far too much of a risk.

" Lets continue to search around here, But as Arthur said be on guard and stay close." Although he'd prefer nobody to be hurt he knew sometimes curiosity could get the better of someone.
(Gideon Ruger)

Well, here he was. Accompanying Gideon and the others unto what one could really call a quest. He honestly had no idea what to expect here or why he was here in the first place- Oh, right. Aiding Gideon. Well, there was that but he was here also to ensure that nobody else got hurt- at least, as far as he could help it. He wasn't too strong or smart or quick or anything but he could at least take a hit, that he could!

"Mhm..." He'd reply back to Arthur as he looked left and right as best as he could, his torch at the ready and his own heated shell providing some illumination in their current darkness.

"Oh, uh. I can help with that too..." With Runes, that was. He wasn't...well, really a master yet but he was experienced with the art as well. Though, if Arthur didn't need any of his help then that was fine. He'll keep watch like he was doing currently.
(Ragna Krimson)


It is a bitter defeat.

 She had seen the body laying down within the snow. She had watched as other vampires descended upon her lithe frame, taking away the opulence that once thrummed within her beating veins. There is a struggle of some sort to hold back the feeling...The moments when she chokes upon the seething rage within her heart. The moments where she nearly forgets that this-...This journey is not akin to the war, but similar in so many different ways. The anticipation blossoms and the headaches occur more and more...And all she can remember is the blood upon the snow, blossoming outward, thorning across the ivory plains.

 "...Yes."

 Silently, she does as she is told. But the loss of one made her feel as if she had lost a piece of herself. A side of her that was compassionate, and nice, and wholesome. In the end, she remains to herself and her own pained heart. "I'll look to the door." Careful, simple, she'd inspect the ruined door....Mindful to not touch, but merely, wait for the answer.

 Hm.
(Bei Rowan)

No alternative routes to be found. Nor treasure for them to take. If there were... it would have likely been taken long ago for those actively looking for such. No doubt that the door had been looked at in the past as well. Though... it seems as if it had not been moved... perhaps a century more or less.

Undead sent first to bother the door. Bei Bei, as well. The runescribes of the expedition team looked into the door a few steps away. The door was very... intricate. To a scribe or not. Alot workings of the ruined door seemed to be a mixture of scripture along with the craft of scribing itself. Around the length, missing bits of it however.

Nothing came from simply touching it however. The scribes were well able to tell that there was a trap laced within the opening of the door. But there was something further, of course. That might have required a closer look.

Just what he expected.

It doesn't take him long to figure out that there's a trap, and while he does not risk his hide, it might be worth to actually dispel it- considering that the runes were fairly old, it's safe to assume they should be relatively easy to counter and overpower at this point.

"Stand back. There's a trap ahead of us."

Approaching, the Adjudicator directly gazed at the runes inscribed that were meant to trap the unfortunate adventurer. Drawing the blood from his hand with the hemomancy, he spilled it over the runes, to cast the enchantment that should dispel it's function.

'A silent passage you shall grant,'
'Your roots are gone, like withered plant.'

Least the runes were fuelled by something beyond the power of a magi that he happens to be, the passage should be open by now- yet, he does not risk itjust now.

Perhaps he'd have to send his Undead forward, still?
(Arthur Rowan)


 Brute-forcing through this situation would have more than likely ended in a catastrophic ending. Upon being told to simply 'stay away', she would depart....Her lithe frame standing next to the Rowan as she stares forward, draconic scales appearing upon her frame in a defensive manner, perhaps, preparing herself incase something just suddenly 'flies' out of the door.

 "Understood."
(Bei Rowan)

Gideon would heed Arthur's warnings standing far back as he attempted to dispel the ancient writings, Perhaps there was some information to be gained by watching or reading the runes after they were nullified.

He crossed his arms and nodded using his undead to move along with Arthur's own incase the Trap was within where ever this door lead.

" Good call, Lets see where this old thing leads then. "
(Gideon Ruger)

The workings, moments before only glowing a dull color, would fade to match the color of the door. Except for a small section around a place at the center of the door. It was a bit more radiant with many of the workings now missing.

It highlighted a single section of the scriptures that could be made out on the door.

...the blessed will guide those who seek it to the Morninglord's Salvation...

It's no wonder that the Oscuri would be the key.

Even in their last expedition, the Azrael's relic was guarded exactly by the Oscuri- there's a clear bond between those items that were blessed by the Azrael and his chosen. Promptly, his head turns towards Gideon after reading the scripture, before he exclaims.

"It appears that relic will reveal itself for as long as you make path."

"Go on then, Gideon. You're ought to move forward."
(Arthur Rowan)

As Gideon would lay eyes on the doors words he felt a sudden initiation take place. A strange and very vague message but being as he was the only one here who could be seen as 'blessed' under the Morninglords terms he steeled himself for what could possibly lie ahead of the door.

" I suppose they were referring to me. "That being the case he'd move forwards first using his trio of undead as guards in case an attack he couldn't see would come towards him. Igniting a flame of reika within his hand then given to one of his undead who would proceed to press it against the door. Hoping perhaps some reaction would cause the door to be swung open from this.

"Whatever lies ahead we face together, Let us claim victory then." He walked in wondering what would b
(Gideon Ruger)

You have 23 minutes left until your next check. You currently do not qualify for an RPP reward in the upcoming check.

It seemed not the oscuri would be willing touch the door himself. Rather passing bit of the blessing to an undead in the form of the altered mana all oscuri were blessed with... Not to say nothing bad had happened.

No, the door had to begun to fold in onto itself. Finding bits of difficulty in the action of doing so, but regardless the way would open to them. Bits of energy seemed to move along the walls further towards wherever they might have found themselves next venturing into.


Arthur Rowan says, "Let's get going. We shouldn't linger around for long."

Gideon Ruger says, "Agreed"
Forward it seemed. Led by whoever led the go into the path that seemed to bring them down. There were traps, yet not a single would have seemed to trigger on their entry. Though, perhaps they might have still been wary of ones that might have not connected to the door.

They were soon to enter a cavern. The first thing they were likely to notice was the room being taken by magma. At least, portions of it were. And it had destroyed some objects within the cavern room. Pedestals. Each with a relic upon them. It seemed one pedestal was well in the proccess of being done away by magma on it. The pedestal still had a relic uptop it however.

In the very center of the room... was what seemed to be a door that was similar to the door that opened the way for them. Likely working the same, except for the fact that it would lead them downward.

Leave no stone unbroken.

If there was a way for them to retrieve the said relics, then Arthur had to attempt doing so; but of course, he had to stay cautious in regards of the potential traps, and within a single motion, the several undead were dispatched to secure any potential breach for the trap- that is, should anything be fired upon him, they would take the blow.

"I believe we shouldn't leave these things behind, Gideon."

But of course, something bigger could happen in case things go wrong; for such scenario, he chooses to retrieve a single relic at the time, and carefully.

Through the power of Telekinesis.

Grasping it with the invisible force, Arthur subtly lifted the relic from the pedestal that was slowly burning. While his attention was focused, it never went beyond becoming unsuspecting of anything that may go their way--

-- something can go wrong anytime, after all.
(Arthur Rowan)

What greeted him when they first entered the cave would be heat- something that was used to quite a lot being both a user of magma and a smith himself. This heat however was foreign- not of his own and certainly not the kind of heat one could find in near a forge. A bad heat, so to say. A dangerous heat.

And while they were in the clear right now- no traps or anything, one couldn't be too careful, no? Though, he believed that the relics were important- and they were. Afterall, all of them here hailed from Valmasia. All of them here were Azrael's servants and so was he included in that. "I c-" as soon as he began to speak so quickly would he close his mouth as he saw the older and more powerful members of their expedition do their own parts- or at least in this case; Arthur.

Well. He'd leave that to him. Not that he wouldn't provide any aid or anything- he'd do what he could but for now, better let him do the job than him going in blindly trying to save it.
(Ragna Krimson)

Gideon would examine the area, his green eyes scanned the room where magma flowed and parts that were burning and onset with flames. Many seemed to be loosed while others seemed to be up for the taking. However within Gideon's expertise of Azrael's artifacts he knew for certain it could not be destroyed by mere magma.

Although there were far too many options to choose from no doubt some would be traps while others would lead the way beyond the door that stood in the center. A scowl formed on Gideon's face at the displeasure of the obvious trap...yet he knew no other way to dispel it other than hoping for the best.

If he was truly the blessed sent to rescue them and lead them towards salvation he would choose the most safest option. Yet it seemed he Arthur had the same idea of grabbing the burning relic with the arcane. Also sending his undead to search for potential traps of the other relics he would wait eyeing the more untouched of them all.

The relics stood idly by It was no doubt something worth having but also clearly the most dangerous to take the relics. But he agreed having something is better than nothing at all whatever risks came would have to be dealt with to the best of their abilites.

" Very well I'll take one of these everyone stand on guard. " He'd order one of his undead to grasp one of the 6 relics into his hand hoping nothing would come of it but preparing for something to happen despite that.


(Gideon Ruger)

Well that was one relic. And there were others within the room. Each seeming different in their own right. Each pedestal with bits of scripture on them. Gideon would have taken other. It seemed nothing happened to the either of them for their actions. Perhaps even Ragna could take one. Nothing seemed to come out of simply taking them.

Perhaps something was needing to be done. Gideon sure had a point as well. Azrael relics couldn't quit be done away by mere magma.

So... Where were the others that were likely to be laying about if not on a pedestal... Perhaps encased in magma long hardened? Or perhaps there weren't twelve within the room to start?

Gideon noticing nothing came out of merely grasping the relics thus he began to read the scriptures they carried hoping it would give him a better clue on how to activate the door. Wiping away the soot and ash from the letters so he could read them as clearly as possible.

Perhaps at first the writing was faded and old barely legible but as the Oscuri's own reika connected he had hoped they would illuminate like the previous door did." There seems to be more to this than just taking the relics. Lets find out what we have to do to proceed. "
(Gideon Ruger)

There's something that Arthur notes, however- magma does not come out of nowhere, and either there were magi whom scavenged through and blasted the magma all over, or they were amidst something that could erupt with lava in any time.

Preferably, it was the first option.

"Search the room. Do not get burned by the magma."

He addresses to his own Undead, soon enough dispatching the dozen to locate the remaining relics, if there are any- as for the clearings of magma, the Adjudicator began to clear them out with wind and Telekinesis alike. By purging the remnants of magma, perhaps there's more to be found?

"The door infront of us is likely the exit elsewhere, Gideon."

"Though, I believe we could use every relic we can get our hands on, even if they're fairly weak and can only be used as battery. Perhaps you should try interacting with it, or letting your Undead do so."
(Arthur Rowan)

Well...Maybe he could help? He'd find the nearest relic that was covered with magma-cooled and and hardened and would attempt to clear away the magma from the relic. There may be more clues to what they needed to do with the door in their path from them. The others could also work on the other relics while he worked on the ones that were...magmatized? If that was even a word. He wasn't sure to call it, honestly.

But he was a magma magi and he could...potentially do that? Well, he'd get to work on that. A relic at a time. He wasn't expecting things to be easy though and he was always on guard.

He wasn't going to jinx it though. Slow and steady.
(Ragna Krimson)

Arthur was right. The door infront of them indeed lead them downward. If any took the time to look to it... the door's runes were similar to the last. But it was closer to a pristine conditon it seemed. Instead of blank space at it's center, it seemed to hold place for something to be entered. Enough for a single object.

If they had any brains, which they have seemed to show so far, a relic likely enough to open the way forth. Beyond that.... Arthur act of supressing the dangers in the room seemed to be working well enough.

More relics were taken by there hands. There seemed to be pendents, rings, and such jewelery giving a faith feeling that could be said to be reika in a way. Though somewhat more pure. None quite feeling different from the other. Ragna would have found no relics within any hardened magma surprisingly.

As for Gideon... He'd find azraelite scriptures he should have known as an oscuri. Even if a bit unfamiliar with them.

"We have enough. Let's get going."

Without wasting much time, Arthur proceeded towards the door once the relics were collected; he might not be Oscuri, and he may not even be the Azrael's chosen, but he surely knew how these things work by now. As a matter of fact, he passed two ruins already, each containing an Azraelite relic.

What would stop him this time?

Approaching closer and holding onto relics he retreated, the man began channelling his mana through the runescribing casting technique, as if projecting the power of the relics in terms of runes- it's a good thing he was specialized in such workings, or else they may have been stuck here otherwise.

'Eihwaz - The Purpose of Strength and Stability.'
'Gebo - The Purpose of Exchange.'
'Dagaz - The Purpose of Breakthrough.'
'Raidho/ Nauthiz - The Purpose of Journey for each.'

One to empower the relics.
One to channel their strength.
One to open the gate.
And one to secure their passage.

Fuelling the runes with nothing else but his own blood, the preferred casting technique of Adjudicator, the runewords were projected towards the door while he held onto objects of Azraelite power.

If this didn't open the door for all of them to pass - that'd be quite the issue at hand.
(Arthur Rowan)

As Gideon poured over the scriptures he would recognize them with ease, The mantras and callings of the morning lords wisdom something imparted to him since birth and even now as he roamed around within one of his former domains. Eyes motioned towards Arthur and then to the door. It seemed quite obvious what their next task would be.

Gideon would use his telekinetic abilites to grasp as many of the relics as he could hold at his current ability leaving the rest for Arthur to attempt the same. Attempting to find the key to fit the key whole he'd charge them with reika as he did so hoping it would have the desired effect.

"Then let us continue to move forwards then, One of these relics has to be the one to open the door. We just have to continue to figure out which one."

He would gather the first 3 relics hoping the mechanism would unhinge itself. Opening or at the very least causing some reaction
(Gideon Ruger)

Ragna found...nothing, apparently. Well, that was dissapointing. But he supposed he should count his blessings that nothing bad came out of that as well. Nothing found and nothing gained but nothing was lost as well in his attempt to get the relics from the magma. Well, that was that. Turning around he'd float back to where the others were and rejoin his companions. "I found nothing..."

He'd admit to them, shrugging his shoulders- that was really the only thing that he could do for now.

He'd stood at ready, glancing left and right- keeping his attention as open as he could.

That was...really the best that he could do right now, sadly.
(Ragna Krimson)


 "I imagine that it'll have consequences if you choose the wrong one regardless. Please, be careful." A simple nod is given to the Ruger as she braces herself for what might come. "Besides, aren't relics and treasures usually guarded by some 'beast' after you crack the code?...I don't want to jinx the lot of us but-..." she says, pausing. "I feel as if it might come." In the end though, she just awaits to see what happens. Hopefully, it won't be just as she expects.
(Bei Rowan)


Arthur Rowan says, "--Gideon, do not. Not yet."
Arthur commands one of his Undead to stop Gideon from doing so. He's pre-occupied with the Runescribing ritual to try and open the door.
(Arthur Rowan)


Gideon Ruger asks, "Do you think theres a pattern to them you can decern?"

Arthur Rowan says, "I'm doing the ritual right now."
Gideon would shrug and instead wait for Arthur to finish whatever it was he was doing more infomration couldn't hurt but still BeiBeis unsettling words he did acknowledge.
(Gideon Ruger)

A ritual would have been performed to attempt to open the way for them to move on. All they needed had been collected afterall. Four parts done in a ritual that would have worked out rather flawlessly for most in these types of situations. This had not seemed to be most situations afterall.

The empowerment of the relics. Flawless. Channel of their strength. Flawless. To open the gate. An issue. The gate would not respond simply to any it seemed. Though it shook as if attempting to do so... Before black lines ran through the workings of the scribe that made this door... whoever they might have been. They'd attempt to spread... though... they had quickly retracted themselves until they were no longer visible.

And the door would quote the scriptures on it. All it's scribings turning a dulled color for a single excert to glow brighter.

...to one day use the gifts to revive our savior. Of all we give back, we will recieve the ultimate prize for bring back the Morninglord. Our path to Utopia and more. Misuse of these gifts will only delay...

Quite again... A single place remained open for a relic to be put into it. What might happen if the wrong relic would be inserted... well those black lines come to mind.

There's little else to do.

If the runescribing ritual did not work, then that means the gate before them will not open so easily. There's hesitation in his mind, one that considers the option of something vile grasping out at him and attempting to injure Arthur in the process, and for that scenario, he considers doing it through his Undead.

"Step back. I think it needs... something that looks like it's the most expensive of all the relics here."

"It speaks of the ultimate prize. It speaks of receiving one. Perhaps, we must sacrifice the one with the greatest potency."

Of all that Arthur held, he picked out the relic that held the most power in it, that felt like it'd almost vibrate with the mana and energy - especially after it was empowered, since the ritual was half successful.

Handing over the relic to one of his Undead, he spoke.

"Move it. Insert the relic into the slot."

Meanwhile, Arthur stepped back, gesturing for the others to do so as well. Who knows that would happen?
(Arthur Rowan)

Gideon would see the glowing letters and the black lines that scrawled around the area...He wondered if it was due to Arthurs tampering but it was only obvious that as they got closer to the actual relic the task of getting through would be more and more difficult so Arthur could not be blamed.

He stood idle for a moment dropping the relics he had grasped with his arcane into the hands of the Undead. Gideon tried to remember how the door opened last with him showing the reika manipulated from Azrael's own power. He figured the idea would not be so different.

"I've got an idea. Gather all the relics into a pile, I'll sense which among them has the highest potency in Reika, Since other Oscuri can sense reika to a high degree this must be a task only one of Azrael's chosen can do. " Indeed as all the relics were presented before him he'd place his hands on each one hoping to discern which one had the strongest and weakest Reika signature.

Also taking his time to inspect each object hoping to find a clue to the meaning behind them." Search for any other clues we can gather while i'm at it. "
(Gideon Ruger)


Arthur Rowan says, "I've worked with these relics just now, Gideon. Here's hoping we're both right, and the most potent relic is the key."

Gideon Ruger says, "Guess only time will tell but if not prepare for whats to come ..."

Of all the relics obtained, the most valuable seemed to be a pendent. It looked like an a common blacksmith could make and give to any soul that asked and brought the copper. Something given to a skeleton to put into the place that remained open for something to be inserted.

Once it had been, the little placed closed with the relic inside. A similar shake to the door as before. Perhaps with some more experience... Arthur might have opened the door without need to guess relics.

But to the door, it would begin to move open. Folding in on itself like the last. It's working dulling in their color again. Eventually to be drained of their power. Once the door have completely folded, the place the relic had been interested opened up once again. The relic sat within.

It's presence of reika much more notable... even by those who were not oscuri. It couldn't be told apart from a master pieced object even... besides the feeling that it was taking away from whoever might have worn such a thing.

Friend Jacket drops Lasting Faith.

You pick up Lasting Faith.

It was the key, after all.

There's almost a sense of satisfaction to the fact that they were right all along; a smirk that graced his face underneath the mask, before he approached and reached his hand out to pick up the pendant - he did not wear it, at least not yet, but it would certainly make for a worthy prize to be stashed elsewhere.

"Excellent. It appears the path is open."

"We should not linger more around here. Let us get going."
(Arthur Rowan)

As the door folded in on itself Gideon would nod towards everyone else seeing as their goal was accomplished, They could move deeper within the forward into the maze like volcanic structure.

"Well good job, I'm actually surprised we've gotten this far without their being some undead guardian or gatekeeper to trick us into giving up all our blood...Well I guess we should count our blessings Azrael's intentions were always to keep out heretics not his faithful so as long as we follow the instructions it should be alright... "

He proceeded forwards deeper into the cavern hoping whatever lied ahead would yield more answers to their goal.
(Gideon Ruger)

"I imagine...Without a runewriter of some sort, this mission would be much more dangerous." She pauses briefly, her head bowing slightly in acknowledgement. "It's a good thing we had Arthur invest in the craft-....It turns out that it's more than what we imagine'." It's a complete necessity. In any case, she'd simply strut along, following behind the group.
(Bei Rowan)

Arthur Rowan has enchanted the Lasting Faith!

You pick up Lasting Faith.

Well, that's one step forward at least. He didn't know what to expect beyond the door or anything but he made his way with the others. Often not, he asked himself- why was he even here in the first place? And he had to keep telling himself that he was here in order to take a bullet for someone if need be.

Or just help in some other cases.

Really, that's all he's good for.
(Ragna Krimson)

And it was downward.

It was a fall most magi wouldn't survive regularly. They should have found no issue however. As it seemed the lot of them could fly, or at the least float. Once they had touched though, they found a room that at first glance... identical to the last.

At another look, the room was much more well position the the previous. Magma and marble would decorate the room. Scripture decorated the walls kindly. Especially about the eight doors within the room. In the center of the room was another door for them to fall down. It seemed something larger was to be placed into it this time though. Something the likes of a weapon.

Might it be within one of these rooms?

And so it begins, yet another puzzle they must overcome.

Truly, they'd have no time to search for each and every room separately, would they? Instead, Arthur sends out his Undead to scavenge and search every single room there is, all to make sure that they can cover this area as quick as possible.

"Gideon, send out your own Undead to do the searching around the rooms. We'll spend a whole lot searching through each and every room if we'll do it on our own."

"As for the others, join in, and be mindful of any potential traps. If you see any runescribe workings, then step away and let me handle it. More than likely, it's a trap."

Just like that, the Rowan began his search through the rooms with his servant in tow. Perhaps they'd be the first to find something?
(Arthur Rowan)

Well. Ragna could thankfully float so he'd at least have an easier time getting down there. He hesitated a bit- dropping off heights wasn't something that scared him. When he couldn't see what laid beneath though? That did. He'd wave a torch around, hoping to get a visual on what was beneath them before jumping down and letting gravity do its magic- both ways, too.

He'd float down, assisted by the pull of natural gravitation until he touched down.

Well, for now. He'd seek out to do something. Maybe read the scriptures himself? Maybe look for something he could find interesting? Something metal, perhaps...

Blacksmith senses don't fail him now...
(Ragna Krimson)


 ...She descends, brilliant wings beating down upon the winds themselves as she floats carefully, steadily, mindful of the magma despite knowing that her own wings are 'intangible' when it comes to the walls and things of that nature. Nevertheless...The woman would simply find her attention to be taken elsewhere. "It is best to not waste them all, yes?" she questions while looking towards the walls, steadily reading the scripture.

 "Let's simply look at this, yes?- Then we'll decide as to what we should do." She imagines, going in the wrong room might possibly lead to death. Or worse- eternal pain.
(Bei Rowan)

Gideon descended down closer into the darkness, His wings of reika allowing him to take flight easily now in more control over the emotions it brought onto him he was easily able to control himself yet still his bloodlust remained whatever lied dominant here could always be ready to jump out and attack.

He studied the scripture's hoping to gleam clues about what exactly they could use. Perhaps they would have to find the item required to open the door behind one of the doors? He wasn't quite sure. Gideon trusted Arthurs expertise he had been collecting relics longer than he had so instead of checking the room himself he also used his undead to search for anything while he read the scriptures each door held.

" I wonder what this one will be now... "
(Gideon Ruger)

Arthur absolutely never enters the room first, ever. He has Undead servants for that.
(Arthur Rowan)

True! They had no time to search every single room. Or maybe they did, and perhaps just being a tad impatient. Regardless, skeletons moved out to the rooms to retrieve what they could. Each one would find a weapon to bring back. And if they could speak, they would tell of scripture being on each all. A glow that seemed to be similar to that of reika highlighting words. Though... not told to read over all of it likely enough.

Regardless, they would have twelve weapons within their hands now. As for all of them... this was a great chance for them to catch up on their azraelite scripture if they were lacking in such knowledge. With all the scripture... you might have thought whoever wrote it all to be a high priest.

Or an oscuri that proved too zealous in their time doing all of it. As for Ragna... he'd be doing similar as the others. Though if he'd take the time, he'd find the weapons all collected not exactly... weapons good for use. None of them were really.

Arthur would find the scriptures mentioned before... Seven of them seemed very in line of what you'd hear on an azraelite sunday. Though, one was very strange if he was well caught up on azrael's teaching. Not exactly... Valmasian.

Gideon didn't find much but as the skeletons brought back the weapons he would begin to sense each one to figure out which would be required to open up the path ahead. He felt this was one of the final obstacles in his way to the relic hoping it was something that would help him achieve an even greater presence in Dawn.

Only time would tell after all...He moved towards Arthur and the rest of the group not really adding anything as of yet but waiting for everyone to bring back their gains to deduce which weapon should be placed in the slot.
(Gideon Ruger)

He was not unfamiliar with such.

Fortunately, the history books of Valmasia contained much about such scriptures, which included the letters and words for the Azraelite scriptures like these. The mission of many Oscuri upon mainland, and even Agartha, was all about unsealing Azrael after all - and such would be possible with the retrieval of relics.

Though, Arthur did not share the goal, he was quite the scholar when it comes to such things.

"Hand over the weapons with any scriptures to me. I'll read them, and see which one we'll need."

Other than that, once he's gotten the weapons he needed, he'd begin to thoroughly examine them in attempts to understand what each of them say - perhaps there's a hint, or even a key to proceed further with their quest.

And what do they say?
(Arthur Rowan)

Eight doors, one leading downward...

 As of yet, the woman would simply keep to herself, both arms positioned behind her back to not touch anything as she gives the room yet another sweeping glance. There's something about this that felt familiar but...She couldn't really put her finger on it. Or maybe, she's simply have one of those moments. For now though, she awaits to see how the weapons come out...Hmh.
(Bei Rowan)

Ragna followed the exemple of the others and went on to do his own search. Though it seems that he wouldn't find much like the previous time he tried doing anything. Thruthfully, it was pretty discouraging for the young lad. He came here to be of some use- maybe help his town and his friends in some way and all that was doing was...well, not achieving anything.

He'd found a weapon that wasn't any good at all. Sure, he believed in ceremonial weapons but a weapon was a tool of war- a tool made to hurt and more. He would know- he made plenty of them though even if they weren't really 'the best'. They were good enough for him and whoever wanted them.

Still, he'd look it and any other that he found for writings and in the case of them having them, he'd just pass them off to Arthur much like the many undead that he controlled.

...Yeah, pretty much that.
(Ragna Krimson)

Ragna Krimson drops Adamantite Amulet.

Ragna Krimson has enchanted the Adamantite Amulet!

Ragna Krimson picks up Adamantite Amulet.

Of eight weapons brought to them... It seemed all eight were covered in scripture that was found in the room they were. Seven something you'd likely find in scripture of any azraelite tome as the core bits of the religion.

A single one, a spear, could have been said to be the non valmasian azraelism. A sect of the faith that would come from Felera. Speaking of perserving the world until Azrael returned on his own. All things that humans did would eventually go wrong. Out of their favor.

This weapon seemed the most fragile of all weapons collected.

While Arthur could already guess just which weapon would need to be inserted, he decided to not risk it just yet- something told him that it may not be as simple as he thinks, and considering that their lives could be on the line, he would not dare to rush this part of the job.

"Allow me to perform the same ritual as before."

Gathering the weapons in his hands, with the Undead stood nearby to hold the weapons he could not physically fit on his hands, Arthur began the runescribing ritual once more- all to channel the strength of the Azraelite relics towards the door, to see if it would react in one way or another. Just like previously, the same steps were repeated.

The empowerment.
The channel of their strength.
The breakthrough.
The journey.

"Stay back until I tell you to approach."

Perhaps it will not open the door, but it may yet reveal the hint they would need to understand better which relic must be sacrificed.
(Arthur Rowan)

As Gideon conducted his own studies of the weapons and the scriptures they held he'd wonder which of them exactly would be the proper weapon to resolve this plights. As he looked over the spear it would be clear to him it was far more different than the rest.

Talks of preserving life, and waiting for Azrael's return while doing nothing. The dreadful recluse nation of Felera something he had studied upon for a while. Although Felera's concepts were not any he could agree with there was some advantage they had over Valmasians albeit a small one.

" I think it could be this spear, Felera's Oscuri are amongst the living and oldest race of Oscuri dating before Valmasians era. Due to a time vortex the Oscuri currently in Valmasia are all descends of the trapped ones. Thus it would make more sense this spear as old as it is holds they key that would have been 'preserved' by Felera's logic " He made his suggestion, He would cross his arms and await the others conclusion towards the puzzle looking towards Ragna.

" Are you alright you've been dreadfully quite this whole time? You need to communicate with your teammates if anything were going to go wrong we have to work together and that includes you. "
(Gideon Ruger)


Arthur Rowan says, "Yes, I suspect that it is the spear too. But I do not wish to risk my hide so soon."

Arthur Rowan says, "We must check, first."

Ragna Krimson exclaims, "Hmm? I'm fine, sir!"

Ragna Krimson says, "Just...not much for me to do, honestly."

The same result as the last. Though, this time the door would not make the attempt to fold in on itself. Perhaps this was was much more pristined condition than the last. As before the black lines would attempt to take a portion of the door. But they would not reach as far as the last time.

And they would be left with a single high lighted exert amongst the ruins of the door.

... those that choose inaction over the collection of the gifts to help the Morninglord's return have better purpose if they are adamant... their death and sacrifice will lead to something greater, and it is not the end as we should know...

Although he didn't readily agree to this he figured if this structure was created with Felera's thoughts in mind it wouldn't matter they would have to play by their rules and still claim whatever it was that was left behind there.

" It seems that we have to do things as a Feleran would do. Even though the thought isn't something I care for I'll let it be what is. "

He stood waiting for Arthur to place the spear within the door. Perhaps something would come of it but his hand was prepared to release his scythe if there was any battle to ensue.
(Gideon Ruger)

It would only make sense to sacrifice the Feleran Spear.

The empire of Felera have been known to do nothing but keep to themselves while being ruled by the Ice Queen of theirs, who's said to be the powerful Lich. While Valmasians actively gathered the relics, while they actively did everything to fulfil the prophecy of Azrael, when it comes to Felerans--

-- they hardly have done anything at all.

"The spear it is. Even the history books of Azraelism speak nothing of Feleran achievements - because there's nothing to tell."

"Stand back. We're putting in the spear. In case it happens to be the wrong answer... we must prepare ourselves."

With that, Arthur handed over the spear to one of his Undead to insert it as soon as they made their distance from the door- gesturing for the others to come along, he braced himself.

This could be a wrong move, after all.
(Arthur Rowan)

"It's rather unfortunate...As far as I go, I'm nothing more than a simple knight. I'm afraid that if I were to...assist, I would only make matters much worse than what they could be." A pause. "If something goes wrong, then I'll beh ere to use my strength to protect the lot of you. Until then.." She says silent, her gaze drifting towards the highlighted exert. "We should focus on the true task at hand." It seems to her that there needed to be a little more than what they've done in the past.

 "And-...If you all believe that putting in the spear will work, then so be it." She imagines though, that putting the ones with all eight scriptures in might be better. Just food for thought, but for now, she simply stands away- awaiting their fate.
(Bei Rowan)

More writing. Hmm...Well, he could understand what it said and after a brief period of turning his brain on and actuall thinking about the words, know what they were talking about but still. Was this a warning? That those servants that stagnated should be sacrificed or something? He wasn't sure, honestly. Still, the two experts on this were Arthur and Gideon. He has only just started to learn about Azrael's more advanced teachings.

Speaking of the Morning Lord- the scar on his forehead hurt and he reached up to rub at the ifninity symbol that Frank carved there before he just nodded slowly to the others, moving backwards to let Arthur do his job while he stood at ready for anything.

Well, as best as he could at least.
(Ragna Krimson)

And so it was the spear. Given to a skeleton and placed into the door's... key? It stood still for long moments. Before the spear would simply break while placed within the door.

And the door would move, surprisingly. Folding into itself. To reveal a way further down for them to descend. As for the spear... It seemed the pieces could have been taken. They seemed to be made out of a rather odd metal, seen from where many of them stood.

Friend Jacket drops Touched Steel x8.

You pick up Touched Steel x8.

Floating along Gideon would smirk as it seemed they again made the right choice with little effort, All that was required to do now was gain the final step, The last push so to say.

Undead would continue to follow their Oscuri master, Discernable from Arthurs undead by the ethereal green hue to their bones due to Gideon's power of Reika.As he constructed wings again made of reika he'd begin flying forward excited to see what lied ahead of them.

Of course he'd wait for the rest of his party to catch up going in alone seemed more dangerous than anything. He prepared himself for what was a head the scythes blade tremoring at the thought of cutting through flesh.
(Gideon Ruger)

This is it.

The final challenge was nearing, and Arthur stepped forth. If it meant facing the dangers that lied ahead, he wouldn't mind - they've arrived here for exactly that, and facing off against something in order to acquire the relic means it's necessary to do.

Picking up the metal on his way to the final door, he spoke out to the group.

"It's now or never. We're close to what we've come here for. Let's get moving."
(Arthur Rowan)

Well, the spear had indeed been the key it seems. Still, it was sad that it broke but it looks like the pieces that were still salvagable could be used for Dawn's further plans at least. That was a positive. Other than that, it seems that they have one more door- at the least. He wasn't sure how many more but for now.

One more.

He'd drop down when the rest of the group did as well, following after them.

Wee.
(Ragna Krimson)

Welp…

It's a good thing she wasn't the one making the decisions, because she would have definitely gotten the wrong decision. "I wasn't...really expecting that." A pause. "I thought that there would be something more grand- like bloodletting, or perhaps, a show of unconditional faith." She pauses briefly, a light smile appearing on her features. "It's good to know that these people are more simplistic. If-...It were anything like the places that we've been to before, I'm afraid that a lot more of us would be injured." No...This was purely based off of the rune writing that Arthur had. And because he had gotten so far...She imagines that they might be ten times ahead of where they'd originally be if he hadn't.

 "In any case, let's go then."
(Bei Rowan)

Down the next level, it wasn't the same as the last two caverns they had fallen into. It was a simple hall of mable. At the end of it, a pedestal with a skeleton leaning against it. Sitting. Head lowered. From that they could see, something on the pedestal just as well. Around the room were skeletons lying about. All of them armed... but none of them moving. None of them unable to be revived either...

Something to be well wary of... But they seemed fine for now. As far as could be seen, they would only need to walk over to collect the clock. Though, that's usually not how these things worked out...

No... It was best to exercise caution as before. Especially here.

This couldn't possibly be something that they would expect Valmasians to fall for, could it?

Of course Arthur will not approach. Of course he will always exercise extreme caution, even almost paranoid, always. Such challenges were put in order to cripple the naïve adventurers, but that would not work with him.

"Stand back. I'll simply retrieve it from here."

Commanded by Arthur's thoughts, the Undead spread out to secure the perimeter, as always- as a matter of fact, they even expected the skeletons to rise up and attack them any moment, a precaution to the sudden attack by otherworldly forces that would certainly follow.

And a sudden pull of Telekinesis.

It's intended to pull the item upon the pedestal, something that was likely the relic they've been looking for so long- and whatever trap that may come with removal of it, at least they would not be close for it to happen.
(Arthur Rowan)


 She imagines that the dead had fallen from traps. Seeing as they are simply lying about the room with weapons and armor intact...She could only assume that what might occur are 'walls' enclosing within the area, arrows shooting through them, or perhaps, something a little more sinister, like spikes suddenly rising from the ground. In any case, she isn't the sturdies of beings but...She prepares herself for what might seem to be the worst time of their lives. Although..

 "Arthur can teleport...Perhaps, it wouldn't be that bad if he went there and back." Although, from what she can see, a dead body also leaned against the pedestal. Either he grabbed it and died just as he was doing so or...It was a result of him grabbing them. In any case..

 "Arthur, can you grab the nearest skeleton with your magic and see what's the cause of death?" Perhaps, a chink in the armor might show...If not, then her nex bet might be'noxious' fumes..

 "...Or that.
(Bei Rowan)


Arthur Rowan says, "You forget I'm a wind mage. I could conjure air bubbles around our heads, if necessary."

Arthur Rowan says, "Noxious fumes won't work."
Gideon thought for a moment as he watched the marble hall covered in decorations and other fine tuned items. Yes indeed this fanciful expression of architecture was no doubt Feleran they had nothing better to do than master their building crafts.

As his attention turned towards the Skeletons he would merely observe them. As a Necromancer seeing the grounds littered with bones was always a sign of caution that brought a few questions to his head. How did they die?, What killed them? and are they going to revive to attack them?

Whatever the case was it seemed as if they were going to need to get the clock it guarded, He wondered what would happen but it seemed that a fight would ensue no matter what.

He watched as Arthur pulled it towards himself a thought that hadn't crossed his mind but he figured it couldn't possibly be that simple. However he would wait as the object drifted every closely towards them crossing his arms.

" I wonder what this artifact is capable of...or even if its the one we're searching for it seems rather too simple... "
(Gideon Ruger)



Well, this was...

Almost bland? It was as majestic as all the other halls, don't get him wrong but compared to the others it just seemed more...simpler? Though, all the skeletons around them indicated to him that it really wasn't as simple as one might think. He wasn't sure what happened here. People died, surely. But how? Were they killed by traps? Did they turn on each other? There were many a posibilities that they could have perished.

Armed and armored too...What material? Mythril? Steel? Whose skeletons were these, anyways? He had some many questions right now and no answers to be given. Still.

He'd stay back as Arthur ordered despite his curiousity to move to study their arnamanets.

Hmm. Hopefully, this would be as smooth as before.
(Ragna Krimson)

The skeleton of the pedestal rose. And grabbed the cloak before it left his reach. "A master of this land's magics... be you a true azraelite?" It spoke as it put on the cloak itself... And pulling a odd dagger from it.

"Not every soul dim enough to fall for such a thing, I suppose. Speak your purpose..." The skeleton made a gesture with it's dagger. And skeletons would raise. Masses of them around them. Some with blades. Others with bows.

"Not one are imbeded with a gift for those they find themselves opening their way here..." Dull green orbs within the sockets of the skeleton looked to Gideon in particular.

"As if asking for aid to find your purpose beyond your death... I only ask as you seem Valmasian... many of you. To a degree..."

Why, of course he did not expect this to go without a challenge.

As a matter of fact, he almost grinned under the mask. It's fun and games to sort out the puzzles, but would it really be a struggle if nothing stood in their way in order to reach their final destination? Of course not.

"I've grasped the Arcane, the magic that lingers upon Agartha, yes."

"I am Adjudicator of Valmasia, Arthur Rowan. My purpose is to improve Necromancy, and to discover new ways of resurrecting undead without limitations that it currently has. We follow and abide by the teachings and culture of Azrael."

But he noted the rise of the skeletons around them. Without a further wait, he summoned his undead to arms, and his gaze pointed towards the skeleton that rose from a throne.

"Why? Do you doubt us?"
(Arthur Rowan)

As the skeleton stirred to life pulling back the cloak towards itself halting Arthur's attempts at grasping it. Whatever it could be Gideon would surly be wanting of it for his own uses. As it seems out of the four there he was mostly being addressed he decided to respond.

"Indeed we are Valmasian. The reason we seek this cloak and all other of Azrael's artifacts is to protect ourselves from what is prophesized, Another divine war. Many signs of Kraus beginning to march Warlords into Agartha have been reported and now more than ever us followers of Azrael's mission need to band together to repel them and any other foul creature that serves the light or the darkness."

He'd continue floating, The reika lines on his body shimmering with brilliance as it was clear he was one of the more advanced of his kin." I am Gideon Ruger..Researcher of death and corruption, My goal is to create Undead weapons worthy of being passed down from Generation to protect Dawn and Valmasia from any threat. Undead weapons comparable even to demons or vampires in strength especially.. "

He paused for a moment wondering how the skeleton react to their words, Yet he was also a master of the arcane and as his ability began to progress a new power was stirring within him. However even he was ignorant to it as his knowledge of the arcane was at most limited.
(Gideon Ruger)

"..Figures."

 There's a brief silence, her frown beginning to deepen considerably. "That something like this would occur." But perhaps, it is because of her half-jianghean features that would cause matters to become a little more convoluted and twisted. "It's as they say...Even if I seem a little different than what you might think-...I'm a faithful follower of Azrael and a defender. We're currently preparing his armor and things of that nature for when he returns...And this- this will assist us in moving forward."

 Atleast, that is what she feels.

 "Azrael will come to us-...And we wish to be prepared to welcome him with open arms, especially, when the promise of Divine war is so close upon us."
(Bei Rowan)

Well, a talking skeleton. As one would expect from a servant of Azrael. In fact, this was his first time seeing a more...well, 'alive' skeleton. He saw the many undead around his town but they were moreso faceless and silent. Or just really, really stoic. In which case, then Ragna would tip his helmet to them and their dedication.

"Mhm." He'd been more or less silent through this expedition through both not really having much to do and the fact that his normal was yelling. Lots and lots of cheerful yelling and that probably wasn't quite the acceptable behavior in here.

He'd say more but he was afraid he;d screw up if he did.
(Ragna Krimson)

"No, I do not doubt you in the slightest. It is simple. I do not trust you." Another gesture of the skeleton. The armed and armored would ready themselves. And the skeleton leading them all seemed to touch a bit of black flesh on the cheek bone... It seemed to be regenerating the the cloak on the skeleton. Though, somewhat slow.

He looked to them. "I hid these relics for a reason. I did not trust the faith of those around me. And I do not trust the faith of you all as well."

"But if another divine war is among us... perhaps I should emerge once more."

"Without the likes of those who might be unfaithful."

The dagger would be pointed to Arthur and panned to Ragna. "Look upon a true Azraelite, Commander Kelemvor. Likely the only lich you've seen in your time. If your faith is true, you shall see azrael in the after life. And you'll find greater purpose."



That is something Arthur would certainly not allow to happen.

"I've faced worse."

The Blaazkul is drawn, a hateful, oversized staff that almost seeped with the energy of Chaos while it was wielded by Arthur; within a single moment, the clouds of Storm were conjured above them, and the Undead drew their weapons.

"Then we'll take it on our own."

"Attack."
(Arthur Rowan)

Indeed the only Lich he has ever had any notice of as such the flesh on the bone began to regenerate itself at a slow pace. Gideon had always been interested in Lithification and if one would be presented to him so perfectly then....He glanced towards Arthur knowing he too would perhaps be interested in this.

"Arthur a proposition, If we can lets take this Commander home with us. I want to study lichificaiton a nd see what secrets there are to pull from his bones. Even an immortal can be restrained if done properly. "

He grasped his scythe turning his head towards the creature, He too had been skeptical of the faith of others but he would not lead him to ruin as it did this man, No he would use fear and power to corrupt the minds of those who wished to look away and force them to watch as Azrael's ascension began despite their actions.
(Gideon Ruger)

...

Welp. He couldn't say that he saw this coming. But then again, death was the greatest trade of Azrael's followers. So this was acceptable in a way to him. Still, faithful he might be, he would be more useful for Dawn and the others alive rather than dead right now.

Still, he'd grasp the handle of his blade, ready to draw it if needed. Gideon wanted to talk- or at least bring the undead commander ...aliveish? Well, whatever the decision.

He'd stand by his comrades.
(Ragna Krimson)

The skeleton wouldn't expect a great deal from it's skeletons. Sentenials that lasted moments in a battle before they were blown to bits or thrown back to put themselves back together.

Kelemov seemed much more dangerous in a battle. But with the years he'd likely spend within this hall... perhaps his experience had left him. And his skills rusty. To the end, that seemed to play as a downfall for the lich. Unforunately he'd had chance to injure them and one was well taken.

Ragna of all people fell victim to the magma magic of the lich. Piecing pieces of the left arm and leaving permanent damage as well as scars that wouldn't go unnoted.

In such a chance, he'd found himself able to strike the lich. Either opening a decisive attack for his allies and defeating the lich himself.

When it was done... all that could be taken from the lich seemed to be his dagger... which seemed to hold an odd depraved ordanment. And the cloak. Perhaps the lich as well if he was preserved for experiments.

Ragna Krimson has emerged victorious!

Kelemvor has emerged victorious!

Ragna Krimson has rolled 6 or under: they may be captured!

The Storm, the lightning and the power of blood.

All of those were used as a mix to put an end to the depraved Lich that stood in their way of retreating the artefact; and in this case, this could be either the cloak or the dagger. Considering that he grasped onto the cloak, this might've been just that.

In joint effort of their group as a whole, at last, the Lich was defeated - it was undeniable that he was a powerful foe to fight against, but considering that they were in the constant state of war and were always preparing themselves for the worst, perhaps it was too little to stop them.

And in the end, it could not.

Inhale, exhale... the Adjudicator steadily breathed once he'd seen the Lich fall, and picking up on the energy that he still had left in him, he walked over to the defeated Lich, his hand reaching out to the dagger and cloak- neither are worn, but are instead thoroughly inspected.

Perhaps there's greater power in them?

"--Great job, everyone."

"Gideon, you can take the body of the Lich. And Ragna-- how badly are you hurt?"
(Arthur Rowan)

Horrific magics filled Gideon as darkness swelled with intentions to torture and torment the fallen Commander. Kelemvor's control over the magma and other elements was impressive however Gideon was a master of the Metaphysical and Ethereal magics, Ripples of time would be hurled towards him weakening his defenses leaving him wide open for the attacks of his allies.


As the scythes blade vibrated with bright reika Gideon would strike forth sending an empowered burst of energy towards the lich slashing and carving his way through any opposition faced by the skeletons while his own made quick work slashing and trapping the Kelemvor.

As corruption flowed Gideon would focus himself while in battle, Attuning to the Arcane powers that lied within the world As he did he would release a ripple of power containing within it what could only be known as the decay of all life. The telekinetic blast moved forward pressing the Warrior back and decaying any flesh that remained on his bones.

Plant life in the path of Gideon's power began to wilt, Perhaps due to the extreme hatred and malice Gideon exuded for no particular reason perhaps a side effect of his growing chaotic nature manifesting itself even when he chooses not to show it.


As the final blow was delivered he awaited the deliverance, Ragna seemed to be injured luckily however he was prepared with a kit for when they got back home. He'd pull the life energy from the surrounding plant and animal life further rotting away the energies to seal Ragna's wounds and stop any injury he had rom becoming fatal.

"It seems we accomplished what we came here for...You did well Ragna..we all did however I'm more so ready to begin on the projects and studies to further increase our power. Perhaps these skins could be instilled within Undead to better increase their regeneration from rotting? So many mysteries still left to uncover. "
(Gideon Ruger)

Gideon the liches body would be incased in chains of reika to carry back with them. Luckily it was the remains of an oscuri so it could tough out the long journey. He had plans for what the lich could be used for after he extracted all the information he needed.
(Gideon Ruger)