3/08 Vacation in Helheim (High CoD)

Deep within the mountain ranges north of Theria.

This is where Lumi Fenrir and his companions find themselves after receiving a report from a small team of archaeologists- if one might call a terrified, whispered message from the last member of the team a report. What information could be gleaned was little- that the team was massacred and their location the only concrete information obtained.

Trekking through the mountainous snowdrifts and over treacherous ridges was a thankfully simple task for these elite of Theria*, and upon cresting that final ridge overlooking their destination, it became immediately clear the source of their archaeologist’s woes…

Across the field of snow below them was a large, clearly aged granite building covered in snow. Parts of its front were cleared off, especially towards the huge frontal doors- where the archaeologist’s camp stands.

More concerning, is the group of figures wandering around it. From this distance, it’s difficult to make out detail, and while they could approach, they would risk being spotted as they crossed down the flat, whitewashed area.
[20:28] Good fucking Stars how did he keep getting himself into these things?

Trudging along into the mountain ranges the Lunaris mostly keeps silent-- Mythril orbs lazily drifting about to take in their surroundings. How'd he even get past Theria without someone stabbing him in that cloak?..

It's not like the Watch existed after all, though.

Coming upon the site of snow-covered granite his brow began to furrow. If those that were killed within the archaeology site were massacred, then the figures before them stood as the convicts... Most likely.

Drawing in a slow breath it's let out in a misty huff. Now it laid on Lumi to make the decision on how they were to proceed-- Or Dun to create an avalanche upon those before them somehow someway. This was the circus, after all, and he was one of the clowns at this rate.

Placing a hand on the hilt of his blade he'd speak aloud quietly. "So-- How're we doing this?.."
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[20:29] It'd been an odd request. 'Hey Sen-sen wanna come check out this weird stuff with me?' Yes, it was strange but who was he to turn down a friends needs?

Thus he found himself suffering the long trek into the frozen northern tundra in search of this archaeology site. A hand reached up to rub the back of his neck as he squinted towards the distance. Well, what exactly was way over there?

A temple certainly but beyond that he really couldn't say. His attention shifted to gaze at the rest of the landscape. Nothing but frozen tundra as far as the eyes could see. Well, wasn't that a pickle!

Turning towards Lumi he'd offer a smile, his eyes darting to the rest of those present. An odd crew but one he'd always found enjoyment with. "Want me to just fly over there and get a peak?" Those great leather wings stretched outwards, before coming back to close over his shoulders. The digits at the ends interlocking neatly.
(Seneca)
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[20:29] Dun would march away contently into the depths of the mountain without fear of danger or trouble to come. The clown prince of Theria had embraced the frenetic chaos of his mantle, and found he feared less and less these days not due to his prodigious strength, but simply due to the entertainment value that came win or lose.

Life had become a comedy, of that there was no doubt.

Marching along progressively with idle crunches of his black sabatons against the snow and slush, the clown prince would hum to himself in thought as his stolen cambion eye scanned across the surroundings with curiosity, idle amber glow flicking about as he did his best to enjoy the sights on this little swoiree.

Yet, at the perception of the distant granite building, the clown would cease his noise as he grit his teeth lightly with excitement. He had a feeling this was about to be the start of the evening's entertainment, and boy did he like a strong line up.

"Alright, fifty coins says they'll try to kill us if we don't try to kill them first. Any complaints?"
(Dun)
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[20:30] Seneca says, "I'll take that bet. I say they'll at-least scream at us first and try to scare us."
[20:30] Random Demon in the back exclaims, "Hundred coin says the clown on the side honks!"
[20:32] Accompanying the group of Therians alongside Caelus the Osronan Radiant would wear a slightly more bothered grimace to usual.

A bad dream or perhaps a series of troubling experiences here and there. He offered a favor to towards the Fenrir for his aid in the war though hues would fall hard onto Seneca as Dun started his spiel and they arrived at what seemed to be a snowy impasse.

"Fifty coins says if ya attack them unprovoked, we'll be in deeper shit than if we'd o' just let em make the first move... Lets move carefully, but not daintily, is all I ask." Robin would simply chime in with his own insight here.

He knew how Theria often did things..

But he was in no mood not to speak up if this expedition started to remind him too much of their demonic neighbors.. though his first duty was making sure those here didn't perish as they could all be redeemed in some fashion.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[20:34] Personally? It was goood to finally get out of the therian air...But he was still slightly irritated from being mugged by a certain demon. A thin whisp of air soon left his mouth as he went back over the reports given by a team of archaeologists.


A massacred and a simple location? It was almost insufferable. But so forth? He still went on even further. For his own gain not even that of theria's. Mountains of snowdrifts and even that of ridges far beyond the normal words of danger did little to stop them.

But with the goal in sight? And..strange figures walking around it that were barely noticable? It was hard to even see what they remotely where. Tilted his head left and right briefly as he thought of a way to truly get around this as others spoke. Eyes forever trained onto the granite building half hidden with snow.

"Y'know..I've never been one for stealth. Or even literally sneaking around. Flying over to get a peak seems kind of like a waste but..perhaphs we could use our words here?" There was a half breeze as he glanced back towards Seneca for a brief moment. "Also I'm dressed like this because it looks nice, moving on from that..Caelus? I'd just say-"

Did Dun make a bet with coins involved? There was a small crack of his nuckles before he let out a low breath. Fifty coins..was defiantly not worth it. "Right lets...just approach it slow. If they attack they attack, if not? Well, that makes our lives a lot easier."

And with that? He'd simply...stroll on up if everyone was in agreement.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[20:38] {NARRATION} Everything was going according to plan as they climbed down from the ridge towards the camp.

Then, very quickly, things stop going according to plan. Roars from the camp echo out over the silent reaches of snow, and those facing the camp would see a small horde of lesser demons charging them all. Leading the horde, a lumbering hulk, clothed in a deep occultic aura, claws bared.

Mid-charge, its voice booms out towards them- led only by a menacing laugh. “Fresh meat! I had wondered when someone would follow the trail of that worm we let escape!”

Lumi and company would have moments to prepare before the charge hit them.
[20:43] There was a small blinking from Lumi as he heard the roar of something echoing within the camp. A small thin sigh left his lips as his eyes scanned over the lesser and even smaller horde of demons rambling towards them. Then again, he was focusing on the wrong thing.


He almost missed the hulking behemoth with that ever so stained occultic aura.

It was almost like a field day..But looking to the group behind him with a ragged smile on his face as he placed a hand on his blade. Ready for a semi-quick draw. "Soo..Someone owes Dun fifty coin. But besides that? I don't think running is any use here so..Lets clean up some demonic influences alright?"


There was another small shrug as Lumi looked towards the group before glancing back towards the others still charging towards him. "Who knows..maybe they might have something even shinier on em."
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[20:43] Well, that went poor fast. With a sigh he'd look over to Dun. "Does that count as me winning? They did scream first." Though he doubted the Warlord would see it that way.

Regardless as he heard the thundering feet of the occultic beast getting closer. The dragonic warrior pulled free his great nyeshkian club, holding it high for a moment. His wing's outstretched behind him, before they came down and pushed him upwards into the sky. From above he'd get a better vantage point as well as gain the chance to dive bomb into his foes.

"I would like to offer surrender but I doubt these beasts are amicable to it!"

They really didn't look the type, so instead of wasting more breaths the suspended Knight brought his wings in close and dive-bombed towards the hulking brute.

Ready to meet it head on in combat. Though, he probably should have paid attention to the small fry.
(Seneca)
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[20:43] With the snow scrunching under their feet the Lunaris is content to simply continue on. What could possibly go wrong? It wasn't like they would be surrounded in mere moments in--

Ah.

They had alerted the horde.

Demons rush towards their position and just like that Iberl joins the fray. The air about Caelus grows all the colder as his star makes itself known to the lessers that approach them. Before them all rushed what he assumed to be this little wave's leader.

"Well... It was worth a shot, mh? Let's cut them down here and now." Calm and collected as always the runeblade's withdrawn. Mana traces its edge as the ethereal magic stems from his body.

This was going to be fun.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[20:44] Dun would crack his knuckles with contented excitement as he slowly crunched his black sabatons away down the ridge with an ambient snicker. His cambion eye flicked here and there about the approach with sight aided along by his sharpened senses from years of blindness.

The clown wasn't missing the show, that was certain.

Yet, as they grew closer to the tents and camp, the roaring echo that was laden forth from the depths of the granite assembly made clear that stealth was certainly not on the menu. To be quite honest, the clown wouldn't have had it any other way, he liked a good performance more than anything.

As the brute began lumbering forth towards the party, the clown warlord would raise his calloused fists with a click of his teeth, bowing mockingly into the distance as with an audible pop, his arms were blackened and hardened by mana.

Well, at least the fight was coming to them.

"Keep the change, I wanted it to be a fight anyway."
(Dun)
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[20:45] Readying himself, the sounds of engagement were hot on them...

Robin would take out his shimmering claymore and then allow his aura to ignite upon him. It seemed that regardless of what they did here... The hulking and seemingly occultic bastards here would be charging at them.

"Well... at least we know tha' they ain't friendly." He'd say as they advanced in as a group Things were going rapidly, but not too different from how the rest of the others surmised.

"Aye though... guess the clown was right. Color me impressed." Intending to strike lethally to the occultist, but less so to any aiding them, it seemed the Shining Radiant wasn't going to hold much back here.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[20:47] {NARRATION} The charge hits, the supervisor demon swinging for Lumi immediately, claws clanging against his quickly-drawn blade.

Continuing to swing its claws towards the Warlord, the horde swarms from behind the demon- easy to cut through, but in quantity a true nuisance. Most importantly, keeping his companions from immediately coming to his aid. Arrogantly laughing with each attack, the brute continues its assault, even as its ‘subordinates’ fall around it.

[ Lumi will get -1 on rolls following the end of this combat. ]
[21:01] {ITEM} Traded item with Lumi Fenrir: Sandwich
[21:01] {ITEM} Traded item with Robin lux Queen: Sandwich
[21:10] {NARRATION} It’s immediately apparent that the supervising demon had earned its position.

The claw swipes are rapid and brutal, and its occultic mastery drains away at the life and energy of all those present.

Robin's leg was wrapped around by a chain of occultic-infused metals, tearing, burning tight- until from a sharp movement, it broke. It was only a small fracture and would heal without complication, but it'd hurt for the time being.

Seneca isn't quite as lucky as Robin. A shade-cloaked claw lunged forward and wrapped around his throat, squeezing hard around him- and it's clear it nearly crushes his neck, afore a blow from Lumi had knocked it away. However, the dragon would have some trouble breathing, his throat weakened.

Lumi and Caelus both get away without trouble.

Dun had begun to use his damage reflecting technique just as the demon jumped up towards him- however, just as the damage was reflected back towards the demon, the demon seemed to engage its OWN reflecting technique. The power bounced back and forth, cascading-

-then Dun faltered for a moment, and that resonated power slammed into the clown's face, cracking his mask and breaking his nose. It's amazing he got away that fortunately, truly.

This action staggered the demon, however- reeling from the sheer power displayed, leaving Lumi the perfect opportunity to strike in at the fel beast.
[21:18] Dun would snicker with amusement as he played at his usual trickster antics in battle, idly coaxing the timestream about to wither the great demon as he clicked his teeth together with ambient glee. The clown prince of Theria loved a good fight more than almost anything, and this overseer certainly had the muscle to back up his loud mouthing!

Were that all politics was handled in such a manner.

Yet, as he stared down the charging beast, his palm raised and blackened with recursive energy to turn back his might, his heart dropped lightly as the beast reflected the energy back upon his reflection. Arm straining as the kinetic force continued to gather and accelerate, the clown would grit his teeth in preparation for the worst kind of trick possible.

The one one played upon themselves.

With a sickening snap, his nose was shattered in a splash of blood down the seams of his mask, his vision briefly blurred as he came to terms with the sudden pain of a ping ponged haymaker crunching his cartilage into fine powder. Slowly, he'd rise from the ground with an idle grumble, readjusting his rubber mask once more with a grimace as he glanced at the spreading cracks from where it had been hardened.

He needed a new mask one of these days...

"I've heard about getting a stuffy nose, but this is ridiculous...is everybody alive? Can I say go team yet?"
(Dun)
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[21:19] Perhaps as it was after fighting with Veles opened his eyes to something..more. Sure he needed to get better, But even now? It was purely practice at this point as his swift drawn blade clashed against the demon's blade. And as such? He danced through it all. Weaving throughout the lashing chains the demon implored in his own high command it was almost as if walking through razerwire.

But seeing as when Seneca was nearly caught within the demons grasp? He lunched forward with a single drifting slash towards its arm. He'd have to heal his friend a bit later.. But this? Was nothing more than what he figured to be.

An all out battle royal as it truly was, but with Dun managing to stagger the demon causing him to reeling back from what was displayed he moved in.

Blade drawn as he danced around the demon with a flurry of strikes aimed towards its legs, cutting deep enough to cause the creature to fall to his knees..and before long? His blade rested neatly upon the demons neck before virtually stomping down on his own blade so it would cleanly slice through with more than enough force...Before quite literally patting down the creatures to see if there was anything of value on it.

"Well..You can say half of that statement Dun but ah..Mh. Yea, you can say that Dun. We did it! Don't mind me ah..looting it though, common business practice and all that."
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[21:19] Good Stars this was annoying. ANOTHER shadow-walking Demon was flaunting its Occultic hide about these mountains. Dipping and diving into the fray, even without his wings, the Lunaris cleaves wildly at the fel beast.

Iberl's light, beams of mana, and the might behind his blade are all that he can offer to this team as they clash against their foe. It was an uphill battle, absolutely, but they'd prevail in the end...

Injured, of course, for most of them.

With Lumi delivering the finishing blow towards the Demon Caelus would offer a hand to help others back to their feet-- To help others stay standing, even, should they need it.

"Don't suppose that's the last we'll see... Let's think outside the box if we can-- Can't quite say my luck'll get us far though." A dry chuckle escapes him. "Anyone need help moving forward, or?.."

Caelus's gaze eventually falls towards the distance about them-- Checking for others that may be coming.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[21:22] Into the fray he went! He'd fought demons all his life and he wasn't going to falter now that a particularly ugly one had shown up. That great club of nyeshk came down again and again upon the beasts shoulders. As the dragon dived to and fro, his great wings keeping him from staying to low to the ground.

It was going well, he was keeping the pressure on and he could see the blood start to flow from the beast. Then it happened, he felt that great shadowy claw upon his throat, his hands came up to grip the magically limb. Tightening as hard as he could to try and break the wrist before his throat broke.

His vision started to fade, the world going dizzy as he tried to breath. Then he saw Lumi's blade come down upon that inky limb. Breaking the grip, as the dragonic warrior crashed the ground. His hand coming to rub his throat as he rolled away from the fighting.

There was still the lesser demons; looking to them he waved his arm. Sharpened bone splintering outwards towards the lesser stock. Making a bit of use of himself as he allowed the main beast to be handled by Lumi.

Though as the fight ended he heard something about help, his hand raised and in a raspy voice spoke. "I could use a drink of water."
(Seneca)
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[21:23] Facing off against the hulking and umbral behemoth, the party of manly brawlers and swordsmen wouldn't know any fear.

Feeling that tinge of light powered righteousness travel up his spine the swordsman would look to stab and slash at openings within the large being's guard and stance.

Dashing in and out, and shrugging off any hints of occultic fervor headed his way with the blessing bestowed upon him by the light.. the final stretch would quake the area, sending snow in an upheaval of energy though the Shining Radiant would get snagged with some metallic energies on his leg.

Recalling when this had occurred before though, Robin would let out an annoyed growl as he sent forth a beam of light to slam into the thing, disorienting it for Lumi's ultimate flourish.

"Ain't the most hospitable bunch.. are they? Damned demons... if only their skulls weren't so thick they might see anythin' but darkness." He'dsay out as he freed his leg, and walked along, the pain mild but his resolve only bolstering.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[21:27] {NARRATION} Staggered so by the resonant energies that had erupted between itself and Dun, it was at Lumi’s will- legs falling out from beneath it, collapsing to the ground. It began to recover, claws extending, directing to make the Fenrir back away-

-yet it was not fast enough, as the blade pressed to its neck, which was then cleaved through in one brutal blow. While he checked the bare corpse, it would be no trouble for the rest of the magi to cull any of the remaining lesser demons.

With the demon occupancy of the camp and ruin defeated, they would have ample time to examine the area.

The camp itself...had been, other than most of its standing structures, destroyed. Chests were smashed open, alchemy stations shattered. Among the little that remained intact was a small corner of the camp with an anvil- the area where the archaeologists maintained their equipment. Notably, this area- and a good clearing around it- looks entirely unmarred by even blood.

Moving towards the temple, the large, if plain, granite doors are swung inwards. Upon them were a number of runic inscriptions- yet most apparent is that the largest one on the door is broken apart. It seems like it would’ve broken when the door was first opened, and based on its design, it’s some kind of seal.

Stepping through them would reveal an odd sight. Throughout the single, large room, there are nearly a dozen furnaces, anvils, and workstations. Some are fallen apart from age and decay, yet most remain near-to peak. It looks as if they were in the process of restoring the forge, as some of the furnaces have now-smoldering fires filling their coals.

And on the wall opposite the entrance…

Is a giant, orange portal. Heat radiates from around it, and the portal itself is surrounded by a ring of intricate runes. By the base of the portal lay one of the archaeologist’s corpse, within one hand a runescribe’s mythril stylus, and in the other what used to be a journal- and is now a smoldered, ashen tome that’d fall apart at the slightest nudge. Inspecting the runes that surround the portal would reveal that while many appear to be ancient, from many centuries ago- several appear to be brand new. As if replacements for old, damaged ones- which is an easy conclusion to draw, with the runescribe’s corpse laying at the portal’s base.

Should any of them decide to smash or deface the runes opening the fiery portal now- it wouldn’t close. It both appears that it’s being held open from the other side, and that wherever the demons came from, it was from through it- and if they wanted to stop the flow, they must pass through it.
[21:33] There was a small pause from Lumi as his eyes once more observed the scene before him. Most things were smashed, an anvil left intact with..nothing truly disconcerning about. But even as his eyes looked over every fickle detail as he moved towrds the temple. Blade sheethed once more with his hand still resting upon its hilt as he peered into the rooms inside.

And beyond it? A glorious...half finished forge. Almost as if someone had set up base here a long, long time ago. And with it? It was almost complete...save for the smoldering portal opposite the entrance.

Staring into it with curious eyes as looked lower below it. Stepping towards it a smidge bit closer as he did his best to suffer the flames of it. Inspecting those oh so interesting runes of old on it before reaching down to the runescribers corpse and pocketing the mythril stylus. It might come in handy later after all..but turning towards the group he gave them a rather dry smile.

"Out of the frying pan and into the fire right guys? But ah..Seriously though. Ya'll want me to jump in first or are we going to jump in together like a buddy system?"
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[21:35] Aiding along whoever may need it Caelus's gaze continues to travel about. The camp? Fucked. The temple?.. Rather astonishing given the seal and runic inscriptions about them. Those Mythril orbs take in that sight for a time before pressing on.

Now came the contents of the temple itself-- A blacksmith's home if anything. It wasn't too out there to believe Demons themselves had to create their own weaponry and armor from time to time, but it's the portal that draws his full attention.

That had to go. Now.

Moving towards the runescribe's corpse he of course moves to do the obvious- Check their journal. Only to have it... Dissipate to dust. Scrunching up his nose a grumble escapes his lips, shaking his head.

Rising to his feet he'd let out a soft huff. "If it'll close this thing?.. Then yes, we're going in.- Best to stay together as best we can though, so yes... Buddy system."
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[21:35] It was an odd thing but the demon's that Seneca bested where all left alive. Simply bound within ivory shackles and body braces. If his fellows slew them that would be upon there own deeds. Not his.

Walking through the ruined camp was a rather disheartening sight. It was beyond a mess. What had these archealogists been trying to gain here? His gaze traveled across the area. Wondering for there reasoning. His feet found there way over towards the anvil area. Looking around at the various equipment.

"Hey, Lulu... Uh, anything you'd want to call dibs on over here?" It was after all... A little bit of payback for him saving his throat. After-all he'd nearly lost it with the demon.

Though of course after the search his feet would take him deeper into the building. To where he could see the great radiating portal, he didn't know why but there was something... Familiar about it. As if it was calling to him.

How peculiar?

Shaking his head from side to side, those little golden bells jingling. "Yeap, that's a bad sign. That's some kind of demon portal I just know it."

Though then came the question to jump in one by one or through a buddy system. Without missing a beat the Drakanite was side-by-side with Lumi. "Buddy system for sure."
(Seneca)
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[21:35] Dun would do his best to cease the running blood that dripped down the remnants of his nose's cartilage with a grimace, stolen eye scanning the camp for any valuables with an idle hum as he tapped his mask's chin lightly with amusement. The clown warlord had been distracted by the pain, but now he can certainly gauge that this wasn't the demon's camp.

At least, not originally.

Yet, the detective work would be put on hold as the group's attention was turned towards the granite temple, the broken runes offering a degree of interest to the mercenary as he mulled upon how exactly the archaeologist's present had managed to shit the bath quite so bad. Who would have thought trying to dust up demon ruins would end poorly for one's life.

Common sense, people.

As they entered, the clown would at last begin to take mental notes, interest piqued at the variety of forgeworks and artificing tables that the ancient ruins possessed. Dun had ambitions to turn Theria into an armory unlike any other, and for that they'd need a forge to rival the gods.

Demons were just lesser gods with extra steps, perhaps they knew something of metallurgy mankind did not?

The single, felinae cambion eye that sat in his socket would hold tightly upon the glowing portal, Dun's mouth dropping with amazement as he stared directly into the heart of the storm. A portal like this...such an ambition was one he'd dreamed of manifesting after decades, and yet one sat here in near perfect condition...

"If you need someone to go first, no fear. But buddy system works."
(Dun)
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[21:36] Travelling down past the demonic presence that had watched over their actions there would be an odd heat... a cruel tingle in the air as they made their dive deeper into the compound.

Despite anvils and work stations alike.. there was a heat that couldn't be placed to any forge. One that caused the Radiant to feel a sheer sense of disdain for it all and it'd all be capitalized by what was found.

The corpse in front of the olden portal.. those Helheimic runes and that otherworldly heat would certainly elicit feelings of duty within him as he watched it all go down.

"Whatever gets it done the quickest..." Robin would say to Lumi's question entering the portal with the others at that and feeling heavily inclined to put an end to anything, and everything responsible for linking the two realms in this tainted way.. but giving him a mild idea for the future.

"They've got an' interestin' idea though. Scopes all focked.. but madness an' a lack o' light will certainly do tha' to ya." He'd admit.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[21:37] {NARRATION} Stepping through the portal sends the group awash with blistering heat, as they enter an otherworldly environment.

Looking over the area around them would reveal that they’re standing on a section of upraised metal platforms within some deep pit. Glowing lava covers the ground beneath the platforms, and everything seems to have a reddened tinge.

Further along the platforms branch off in several directions, revealing what seems to be some kind of demonic forge, filled with lesser demon- most of which haven’t noticed them yet.. Regardless of how the branches are followed, they all appear to terminate near the opposite end of the pit.

It wouldn’t take more than a moment to discover why. Far at that opposite end, a huge demon sits hunched over an anvil, one arm braced to it, the other swinging up and down, slamming an incandescent purple hammer. To look directly at it would be as if peering into the sun, and it seems to radiate plasmatic flames.

But their time for investigation is cut suddenly short as the demons nearest towards the portal notice them, and begin to rush forth towards them, their claws bared with a snarl. It’s unlikely they’ll be able to maintain any discretion following this ensuing conflict, as already demons further along have begun to notice them.
[21:44] This? Was definatly not home anymore. But where ever they were? It was blistering hot for no reason. Patting down his scarf ever so briefly as he let out a thin sigh and shook his head to the side for a moment looking towards it.

"Huh..So this is what death feels like, pretty toasty right?" A bad joke as the warlord himself chuckled briefly. Almost...half skipping down the platforms before staring at the various directions it branched off into. Everything was..interesting, save for the hammering ring of metal upon metal.

Even as it screetched in his ears his eyes turned- and almost instantly went blind from the radiating heat of what looked like a demon hunched over a forge swinging something akin to the literal sun. Way too bright..but judging from that archiologist? That was what he was..more than likely after. Along with whatever else was found in the forge.

"Riiight..So-" And just before he could even begin to speak? Demons began rushing towards them. A glance back towards his group with a thin smile on his face as the grip on his blade tightened. "Well..Any body want some roasted demon on a stick? Cause it looks like thats what we're about..to literally eat."

Blade at the ready incase things got..too distraught.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[21:46] As he passed through the portal, the clown realized in that moment that this was no average doorway into the next room of the fancy temple. The energy in the air felt familiar for certain; yes, he'd tasted much the same in his time idling outside the tower of the demons time and time before.

Yet, no longer blind, he was free to scan the depths of the helfire without impediment, and contently he would enjoy the sights as he clapped his calloused palms together with glee at all the excitement. The clown prince wasn't much of a tourist, but sights such as these were the sorts one enjoyed once in a lifetime.

He would savor each minute.

Following along with the group, the clown would make notes about the forgeworks that lined the great, industrial platforms rising high above the molten lava, the heated metal and smell of Sulphur in the air. It was the sort of place that practically smelled of sin, truth be told.

It was his kind of show.

Yet, as the demons further along turned their sights upon the approaching party, the clown would only sigh as he raised his fists once more, igniting in a shimmer blue shroud of ethereal mana as his fists blackened with condensed energy once more. Sadly, it seemed like they weren't the neighborly sort.

"I'm on a diet, but you do you Lumi."
(Dun)
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[21:46] … Well, it was absolutely Hel. If it wasn't for the overall reddened tinge of everything the heat was the selling point. Gritting his jaw he'd take a slow look about.

It was interesting to note, however, the multiple forges and the singular one that hunched over an anvil. It was a good thing he had Mythril eyes at least! While they didn't necessarily burn looking at this being he could feel his brain boiling by the moment.

"Wonder if my brother will end up down here...- Or myself, even." A faint chuckle escapes him before the Demons surge forth once more. Good Stars what was he expecting in this place?

"I don't think eating Demons is healthy, Lumi, but I don't control you. To each their own and what not-- Just shred these things to pieces."
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[21:46] Luckily! He didn't have to worry to much about all the advanced metallurgy and forging going on. After all he wasn't an artificer nor was he particularly smart in general...

However, he knew about demons. He was an expert upon them at this point. One would learn what they fought after years of constant battle. While others may marvel at the technology on display he was focused upon the demons themselves looking upon them closely.

"This will be a grand melee."

He couldn't help but feel his lips curling upwards ever wider. It was going to be a new chance to test himself against the demons before him. Though, really he couldn't help but give Lumi a side-long glance.

Demon on a stick... Well maybe one demon.

"I'll think about it." As he spoke he reached to his shoulder and pulled forth a massive thread of bone. The end curling into a sort of cudgel.

He was going to bash some screws loos but as always, it didn't look like he was going to be doing much slaying.
(Seneca)
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[21:48] So it begins.

The hordes were upon them as soon as they viewed Helheim's vacuous Hellscape. The lands were wrong.. warped and mangled facsimiles of the world but tainted and bleeding in lava and other tainted ichors that simply ran off into the horrendous and heated scenery.

Robin would wear a look of determination, as he looked to the others here and then heard the flapping and squeals of the damned as they encroached upon the quintet of warriors that refused to back down here, regardless.

Glowing brightly amidst the evils that plagued and quite literally swirled about them, it'd remind him of the dreamlike hells had been plaguing him as of late.

Though..

There'd be a look over towards Lumi though as he proposed eating them to which he'd only mildly squint about looking towards the onset of the things kicking about.

"Ain't... ah... Let's focus on beatin' these thin's down in their homecourt, first..."
(Robin lux Queen)
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[21:50] {Item} You drop Cold Iron Ingot.
[21:50] {Item} You picked up Cold Iron Ingot. Dropped by Dun. .
[21:50] {Item} You drop Sandwich.
[22:18] Lumi dabs.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[22:24] Sajid asks, "You need an extra man?"
[22:25] Seneca says, "This... Man."
[22:27] Dropping down from apparently no where, Sajid join in while letting his eyes switch between people. The forming of his being conjuring up as nothing more than an evil, demonic spirit with some glimpses of light there.

Just there, with a gun, of course.

"I think you guys need a hand? Lucky I was near death."
(Sajid)
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[22:28] Seneca asks, "Burger you say?"
[22:28] {NARRATION} Though this horde is small, it’s apparent that size isn’t everything- each of these lesser demon is rabid with fury as their forge is intruded upon, and this rage shows.

Caelus is caught red-handed, literally, as his hands are hit by terrible streams of magma- searing through whatever covered his palms, leaving them burned so, so very badly. Far less majorly, a shard of rock had scored his arm. It'd leave a nastery scar, but it would heal.

Seneca and Dun were both blasted with a simultaneous and massive blast of fire, blasting them backwards and searing their chests with pain. That too would heal rapidly.

Robin got socked in the mouth by a rock, knocking several of his front teeth out. Far easier to recover from was the rocks that then scarred down his cheek, leaving blood leaking down his cheek. It's a lot of blood, but it'd pass.

Finally, Lumi escaped with minor singes, yet unscathed.

Nonetheless, it’s still a small horde- the Fenrir in particular excelling in culling through a swathe of them, blade flashing out and severing limbs. They even manage to, in a display of excellent swordship, make a lesser demon kebob.

Unfortunately, though this first group has been slaughtered, that does nothing to the just as furious demons barreling down before them- the team of magi would need to push forwards through them, carving and butchering until they could reach that platform at the opposite end.
[22:34] Dun would waltz through the demon horde with jesterly confidence and poise, swinging his blackened fists in a swirling tantrum of ultra violence as blasts of raw, decaying energy ushered forth in a grand spectacle of chronological light. The clown was having the time of his life even in spite of his broken nose, and this was becoming especially apparent as he began to simply give in to the glorious chaos.

Just enough that the flames that lapped forth took him entirely by surprise, coating the torso of the clown in searing heat as he shouted suddenly in a bit of genuine pain. HOT HOT HOT. Deep breathes. HOT. Very hot. The clown's armor was super heated for a time by this action, and the burns could be felt between the black plate and his charred skin.

Well, at least he still looked good doing it.

Recovering from the shock of the sudden flames, the clown would raise his blackened fists once more with excitement, silently nodding to the approaching remnants of the horde that blocked their path with a solemn determination to reap their lives with his bare hands for the crime of getting in the warlord's way.

He really hated when people did that.
(Dun)
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[22:36] Good Stars they needed to find a new way to deal with all these damn Demons. Letting Iberl scorn those that approached him he'd grumble and curse under his breath; Blade swinging to and fro as they're cleaved to pieces.

A shame, of course, that magma spat everywhere from those gathered.

Letting out a sharp scream as his hands are thoroughly scorched his blade promptly clatters to the ground. It's the pain that causes his hands to convulse-- Opening and closing rapidly as he tried to figure out just how to continue his fight--

Right as the rock shard scored his arm. A flesh wound, nothing more, but another injury he'd have to shoulder. Growling under his breath two blades of raw mana conjure themselves up into his palms.

Then it's back to work...

With the Fenrir finishing them off his Mythril gaze darts about their surroundings. Who was next? Where would they be going?
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[22:40] The battle would be quite whacky... The fires that emanated off of the beasts would in fact be crippling and burning but apparently a stray rock would find it's mark and hit the Radiant in his face chipping a few of his teeth.

He'd simply keep on fighting though, feeling the gash along the side of his face as well bleeding a bit profusely. He thought he'd actually finished the creature off there, but it was probably more an offhand blast he'd hit it with... as the others moved in for the kill..

"--Not... havin' a good time.."
(Robin lux Queen)
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[22:40] A small horde of demons? Dangerous. But a forge of plundered loot and a warlord intent on robbing anything? There was no stopping his constantly swinging blade as he danced through the hordes of flaming demons and magma spewing forth.


And in truth? It was...brutal watching as Robin took the horde apart. Honestly? It was something spooky seeing the radiant cleave the the demons like butter. Doing what he could in truth? To help with the descimation of demons.


But now that it was all over? Once more did his blade become sheeth'd and rested with his grip tightly on it. Staring at the corpses of demons around him as he let out a thin sigh. "Right..uhm...if anyone wants to go back now? I don't mind it- Hey Sajid, and ah..yea. No hard feelings or anything!"

And really? He didn't want these people to die, as greedy as he might be..he still loved em, somewhat.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[22:40] Death? Yes that was becoming more and more of a possibility at this point. He felt the flame's wrapping around his body, so far he had third degree burns and a half-crushed throat. Not so good for him...

Well, who was he to just give up? Sure he was on a last leg and the little bastards kept coming. What would happen if he backed out now? They'd just get through and keep killing.

"Aaah-"

The word escaped his lips barely, his pain threatening to distract him. Yet, he couldn't stop now, now was the time to double down and unleash a waft of even greater violence.

His body began to heat up, the weaker cloth starting to catch fire as his internal temperature rose to trail alongside the fires that where raging about him. He'd not give up so easily when it came to stemming a tide of monsters.

His skin turned red as the silvery scale's along his flesh started to harden. With a great exhalation, smoke trailing upwards from his lungs. The Dragonic Berserker's eyes narrowed at the upcoming horde. As his body erupted in half-melted spikes. Dashing downwards towards the incoming horde like a falcon going for prey.

Probably not going to last much past the next wave if his flagging motions where anything to go by but he surely wasn't going to just drop here and now.
(Seneca)
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[22:45] {NARRATION} Those gathered and now somewhat wounded- with the exceptions of the Fenrir and the newly-appeared Sajid- would have mere moments to breath before the next wave of furious demons set upon them.

A cursory glance would reveal that most of the ones between them and the giant demonic blacksmith have been culled, now- only a few more waves before they had pushed through.
[23:09] {NARRATION} And carve and butcher they did- though such was a wholly one-sided affair.

It’s once more apparent that they are chafe before a farmer’s scythe. Mowed through by the dozens, the demon push back even as ground is made towards the blacksmith at the far end- who remains unmoving even through this commotion, this disruption of their forge, their hammer swinging down in the same rhythmic This close the incandescent hammer glows ever so much brighter, purple light bathing the anvil.

Then they shatter through- Dun himself being the catalyst to dissemble the last of the demons with a massive, rotating surge of etheric energies. With near all the lesser demon and supervisors culled, the remainders broken and fleeing- the path towards the blacksmith lies open for them to approach- and should they step forth, no reaction is given. The blacksmith appears to not have noticed them or their conflicts, utterly focused on their creation.
[23:09] "ZOINKS."

This wasn't something his spirit was ready for. And as such, he hopped into Caelus arms. "YOINKS, CAELUS. WHAT ARE WE GONNA DABA-DABA-DO?!"

Obviously, a Sand Burriel came around when things got sticky and it ssaved them both from any serious injuries outside of bruises.
(Sajid)
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[23:11] Oh Stars, oh FUCK that was a lot of Demons. Even after a number were cleaved and diced down to bits there simply was too much.

As Sajid pops on up into his arms the Lunaris… Stares at the man. What the fuck had this man done. This man who had shot him not once, not four time, but EIGHT times just jumped into his arms.

He had half the mind to drop him.

Yet as the sand burial comes around them he'd just grit his jaw; Raw mana joining in on the defense to stave the demons off. Honestly it was a combination the two should've thought over sooner.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[23:17] And so the waltz began, to the anthem of the hammer's fall. The clown prince of Theria had been warmed up by the previous encounters with the demonic scourge, and now he was finally starting to feel awake. Cambion's stolen eye focused upon the crowd at large, wounds would laden forth across the clown's heavily muscled flame as he delivered crunching kicks and punches to the horde.

Yet, it was clear he needed to do just a bit more. The tides were to crowded, he couldn't properly push them aside with just an idle sweep of his leg. Their tiny teeth bit into his scarred muscle, only building the clown's fury as he growled with rage. How dare they nibble upon his flesh?

ONLY HE COULD NIBBLE UPON HIS FLESH GOD DAMMIT.

Doing a poised backflip with the aid of his time magic, the clown would take a deep breath as he brought his hands together to his side, gathering energy steadily within the confines of his palms as a growing ball of kinetic force would begin to surge with a sapphiric glow. The more he thought about it, the angrier he got, and the greater the size of the sphere that built within his palm.

As they approached, he answered.

"LET'S SEE IF YOU CAN SURVIVE THE POWER OF A TRUE THERIAN WARRIOR!"

Pointing his hands toward the crowd, the crackling orb reached its crescendo before, in a great flash of light, a massive wave of spiritual force would be released down the pathway, blowing away all in its path into the lava, or to those unlucky enough, cinder and ash as the beam vaporized whatever stood in its path. Crackling bolts of super heated mana churned about its form, until just as soon as it had came...

It was gone.

Heaving steadily, Dun would sigh as he put his palms on his greaves, catching his breath as he waited for the group to lead on. The smith of Helheim remained, it was time for an audience.
(Dun)
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[23:17] This would be a valiant wash..

With the anger over the chipped teeth fueling him.. and also loathing every manner of events here the Radiant would simply glow brighter and fight that much harder. His swings cleaving away at demonic hordes of flesh and evil alike.

Helping the others here by providing openings for their attacks, there'd be an odd sight of Sajid jumping onto Caelus over in the distance he could've sworn... But pushing past to slash away and open up for that bombastic beam of ethereal energy Task was cooking would be more important at the moment.

"This is gettin' a bit out o' hand. But we'll make it yet... Feelin' a little bit less messed up myself too." He'd admit after popping the cork to a healing elixir and feeling his teeth reforming back to shape and the slash on his face lessening to a degree.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[23:18] And once more? The fenrir emerged from hordes of demons...suprisingly unscathed. Which, that in itself was far too confusing on a real note. With his allies mowing down lesser demons left and right? But with that commotion..and the brillance of Dun quite literally eviserating them to pieces?


For there prize..Wait, That blacksmith was still hammering away right? And in truth..he was never one to enjoy interuptions from his own crafting. However he turned towards his group and lifted up a single hand. Grinning all the while as he stared towards them. "Ah..one moment guys."


And as such? The warlord soon continued down the path with his allies towards the blacksmith. Reaching into his own bag to pull out the very same hammer he used to forge his own weaponery and armor with as he let out a rather loud shout.

"Oiy blacksmith! I got a challenge for ya' right here, right now! I bet I can make a better weapon than you ya' molten fool" Maybe insulting the demonic blacksmith wasn't a good idea..but hey, Its how most people got his attention anyway. His hammer ready in his hand as he stared at the blacksmith. Seeing how the fellow crafter would react.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[23:20] {NARRATION} When the challenge is delivered, the lumbering demon pauses mid-swing, head turning to look towards Lumi. Its eyes appear as if orbs of magma, and it slowly lowers the hammer to the anvil- hand remaining clasped around it.

In a low, gravelly voice, it responds to him- though it sounds somewhat fatalistic. “You seek to possess Teine Mallaichte. You know not what you ask.” It seems this large demon has made an assumption about Lumi’s reason for challenging it, and has ignored his insult.

Their eyes travel from Lumi’s face to the sword on his back. “Should you be willing to wager the blade upon your back, your challenge is accepted.” Gesturing with their free hand towards a nearby anvil. “You may use that to perform the challenge.”

Moving to face their own anvil again, the magma-covered demon lowers what they had been creating to the floor, retrieving several chunks of shimmering mythril.

Giving Lumi time to get to the anvil- or leaving himself open for a surprise attack, it speaks idly to him. “I am Anotri. What are you called?”
[23:26] "Not sure what ah..Teine Mallaichte is but, Might as well right?" There was a half shrug before Lumi slowly continued taking his steps forward. Only narrowing his eyes briefly as the demon mentioned the blade upon his back. Letting out a thin hiss in truth as he looked towards his blade as he closed his eyes for a moment.


"A heavy wager..Fuck it, I have confidence in my skills. My blade won't be lost in this challenge." A thin grin upon his face as he moved towards the nearby anvil. Running a hand over it briefly before reaching into his pack and pulling out an assortment of Mythril and darkened Nyeshk.

"Anotri? Lumi Fenrir. Warlord of theria, Pillar of Artificery. Among some other titles..but here? I'm just an artificer. Lets get to crafting shall we?" A small smirking smile on his face as he turned to face his own anvil.

A battle..of artificers? What could be more fitting in the end in this blazing inferno right?
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[23:26] {NARRATION} Nodding towards Lumi as he positions himself at the anvil, it responds in greeting to the deliverance of the Fenrir’s name and titles.

“A powerful name. Come, Lumi. Let us hear the song of each other’s creation.”

Without further ado, Anotri would raise its hammer...and begin to forge the mythril earlier placed on its anvil.
[23:27] Well, as Lumi does that, he noticed that he was still in the arms of the Star-lover. His eyes looking up as he blinked lustfully at them.

"So..."

"No hard feelings?"
(Sajid)
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[23:27] Robin lux Queen says, "--Interestin' turn o' events."
[23:29] … Why was this gun-loving fuck still in his arms? Why was he looking at him THAT WAY? Swiftly withdrawing his arms from under Sajid he'd promptly plummet to his feet or the ground itself.

"Still won't forgive you-- I won't forget, either." Crunching up his nose his head began to shake gently. "The burger, however, was appreciated."
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[23:30] Promptly lands on his eyes, shaking his head to the left and right.

"Men. So hard to please... but it's expected.

You'll forgive me one day."
(Sajid)
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[23:31] Caelus Lunaris says, "You also shot me eight times."
[23:31] "Of course, It'll be a grand showing for all those currently present."

A smirk from Lumi as he began to forge in his own right once both there hammers were raised. Slamming into the mythril and nyshke in twine. Using his expertiece to truly mold something..stranger than most.


Using the very fires of the air and thankfully the magma of the forge to heat up his metals? Made easy to forge the process of his blade even further.

"Lets..get this party really started!"

(Lumi Fenrir)
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[23:31] Sajid says, "You can't prove that."
[23:31] Dun was happy that he wasn't blind, but not happy that he had to see how gay Sajid was for Caelus. This left his mood at best at a luke warm neutral, but luckily the blacksmith competition of the demons and wolves held his attention more than the flamboyant homosexuality. This was going to be legendary.
(Dun)
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[23:31] Caelus Lunaris says, "... As I said, should--"
[23:32] Caelus Lunaris says, "I WAS THE ONE WHO WAS SHOT."
[23:32] Sajid says, "I don't see the marks of proof..."
[23:32] Looking to the exchange, there was a nod given to Lumi as he went to produce something equally as marvelous of his crafts as the forgemaster himself.
(Robin lux Queen)
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[23:37] {NARRATION} The battle is fiece, and intense- as intense as a battle between artificers could be, the both of them focusing so intently upon their own creations. It, perhaps, would even be somewhat dull to the onlookers.

Yet it wouldn't be forever. Eventually- nearly at the same time, in-fact- the two would finish their creations, and move them towards a table nearby.

Solemnly, Anotri looks upon the pair of creations. With a trembling, grating laugh- close to pebbles running across each other- the demon raises its hammer, looking over it...then placing its head to the ground before Lumi.

“I am free. You are now the bearer of Teine Mallaichte, if it finds you worthy.”

Then, before even he could respond- the hand that had last touched the hammer begins to crumble into ash, progressing up his arm. Anotri begins to laugh again as it fades to dust, until what remains of its form suddenly crumples in one moment- blown away by the idle winds in the depths of the pit.

Lumi won, and now the hammer lies before him, ready to be claimed.
[23:45] For once? He welcomed the challenge of an artificer against artificer. The focus of there crafts outweigning anything else of the room. If his allies where cheering him on? They probably weren't but- he couldn't here them regardless.

But the time between the two wouldn't last forever...And as such? Both creations would soon be placed upon the table nearby. And what Lumi had crafted? Might have as well defied any true standers. A double edged blade, One half blackened by the nyeshk mixing with mythril in true fashion as it was simply..defining. A strangly perfect balance of weight even if it was a tad on the heavier side. But its strikes? Would feel as if the world had gotten heavier from the true swings of it.


But the demons laughter? Was..bareable at least. But with the hammer raised lumi's hand drifted towards his own blade-...before the hammer's head met the ground with its handle towards him. The new owner of Teine Mallaichte.

"Ah..Glad I could free you Mr. Anotri, And now..Lets see if it finds me worthy and doesn't burn my bloody arm off." And with it? He moved to pick up the hammer, provided it didn't burn him..he'd rest it on his shoulders as he looked back towards the group.

"Well? We have a portal to close now boys."
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[23:47] {NARRATION} Soon after the hammer was lifted, it began to violently vibrate- before tearing itself from Lumi's grasp and coming to levitate before the assembled magi. Purple flames radiate with rage around it- until they begin to raise upwards in the shape of an indistinct figure.

Forming before them was what appeared to be an angry elemental formed of plasma, lightning crackling throughout its figure, magma rising up around it. The hammer itself is lost within the raging energy, and its eyes stare down at the group.

Then it swings an arm forwards, plasma surging forth towards them- magma crackling with static power surging from the floor beneath them, intent to incinerate them all. In the wake of any movements it makes, clouds of ash follow behind it, choking and obscuring vision.

It would seem this is what Anotri had meant over the hammer finding Lumi worthy.
[23:51] Dun would clap his calloused palms together with cheer as Lumi seemed to successfully win his smithing competition against the demon. Truth be told, it was an all together exciting venture into the depths of Helheim, and the clown was certain he'd love to visit again. Truly a worthy vacation venue if one liked a good tan and decent weather.

This was the way of things.

"Now now, before we start feeling too heroic, we should try to get a gauge for how this portal's put together! How else are we gonna build one in Theria if we just start from scratch...THINK OF THE CONDOS WE COULD SELL HERE LUMI, WE LIVE IN THE SNOW."

The clown's rant on portals and long term investment plans into one's relaxation were halted as the hammer decided it was going to have an attitude, causing Dun to squint as he raised his fists once more with a hardening pop, knuckles blackened in preparation for some good, manly fun.

"Okay but after this. THIS CONVERSATION IS NOT OVER."
(Dun)
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[23:54] Maybe he should have listened to Anotri's warning a bit more because in soon enough? The hammer removed itself from his grasp as it simply..began levitating. A thin line formed upon Lumi's face as he let out a deep sigh.

"Nothings ever as good as it makes out to be..well, guess we'll ace this test with blazing colors right ya'll?" And honestly? But with Dun's sudden outburst he stared directly at Robin for a moment. Blinking ever so slowly before turning to Dun and giving the warlord a single wink.


"Later sure, but here? Now? I want my rightfully earned hammer so I can make some blessed works with it. And honestly? I'm already feeling at home here..minus all the damn'd fucking heat." Was he being truthful? Yes.


But here? He already had his spirit alight due to the recent craft off still flush in his veins. He was itching for more..and more he was going to definatly have in a moment with a new hammer.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[23:55] It was a show, absolutely, and where would they be without the final act? As the elemental of plasma, lightning, and magma forms before them the Lunaris offers a brief hum of surprise. It was, in fact, not expected!..

Though to prove oneself worthy of a Demonic relic did require some trial.

Clenching the runeblade in one hand with a brief pain shock of pain rolling up his arm, Caelus just shakes his head slowly. This, truly, was going to fucking hurt him more.

"I-- I really don't think anyone's going to want to live in Hel, Dun, really."

Then again who was he to talk? The man had a stone that let his wife talk to him, and with it came hearing the many voices of the departed. From lost souls to favored ones he questioned whether he should really even make a blade with it.

No one said he was smart-- Merely observant.

"... Regardless, let's smack this thing back into its place." Caelus grumbled, rolling his shoulders backwards as the ethereal wings pop back into existence.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[23:59] Letting out a light sigh of content, it'd certainly be washed away as the hammer seemed to spawn a guardian of sorts. From his analytical rest the man would shoot a glare over to Task, before shaking his head.

"I wouldn't recommend tha', Tasky… Though if we did somethin' like this... for the opposite side? We might be able to kill a few demonic birds with a single righteous stone."

Drawing his Starburn again though, he'd steel himself to slay this wraith and finally find a way to close this thing off for good.
(Robin lux Queen)
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The Teine Mallaichte is merciless. Its beams of plasma and rushes of lightning-infused magma charge towards the group constantly, wearing them down- shocking, burning, incinerating their flesh.

Sajid was shocked through the heart, but thankfully, it was not too late- as though it causes his heart to stop, the shock immediately to follow kickstarts it back to being again. Unfortunately, his heart would likely need the occasional additional kickstart. As a perhaps minor additive, throughout the combat the Teine had torn at his flames, consuming them to fuel its growth. They would return, in time, but he would be left cold and shivering while they did so.

Robin got seared along his back and rear as the hammer slid by, causing a perhaps discomforting sensation whenever he sat down until the burns had healed.

Caelus, for as battered, beaten, broken, and old as he is- got away relatively unscathed, if perhaps harrowed by the encounter. The plasmatic being had moved its ‘face’ right up to his, stared him down...then essentially wrapped him around in a storm of plasma, fire, and electricity. His figure would be laced with the lightning, and singed all over by the fires- yet he managed to resist the most of the damage. His muscles would occasionally spazm, and he’d hurt all over from the various burns. But, they, thankfully, would heal.

On the one hand, Dun’s use of his reflective technique and ability to take absolutely all damage had paid in dividends. On the other? As it turns out, standing there and allowing a raging being made of fire and electricity wail blow after blow on you is not conducive to good health, regardless of ones overall sturdiness. The bones in his arms would crack and fray- near to breaking apart and shattered. Not quite, but still both painful, and risky if he didn’t allow them to recover.

Far more majorly? The clown’s mask was ripped from his face- and, coincidentally, the right side of his face with it by a roaring blast of inferno, burning and scarring that entire side of his face...and also destryoing the eye resting there.

But eventually its attacks would begin to flicker. The sent plasma dimming in its heat and colouration- those constant barrages of magma thinning, slowing to nothing. Its form wavers, and in its center- the shape of the hammer could be seen.

It would be possible for Lumi to reach in and claim the hammer- yet despite its waning form, it still hasn’t presented a true opening for the Fenrir to exploit. And with each moment that passes, the light of the plasma increases as it begins to recover- the Clown Prince of Theria being the only one close enough to drive forward to give Lumi the chance he needs.
[01:09] This? Was something that was extremely warming in truth. But not in the common sense, it was a harrowing pain of an artificers. Yet..just what had he put his group in through? Traveling through the depths of helheim for a demonic hammer?


Of course Lumi would risk life and limb for it, its what he did after all....Well, maybe other peoples limbs.

And suprisingly? Up until this point he was reletively unharmed. If by sure luck, or the graces of etherial mana flowing from him it was safe to say..he was happy to not get hit by anything. Though he knew he needed to truly end it one way or another, and honestly? He spent most of the fight besides weeving in and out to truly find an opening to seize the hammer. And with barrage of attacks being flung forth? He saw it.

The shape of the hammer, his prize

Getting to it..was going to be difficult. But? With no fear in his heart he raced towards Dun. Sword sheathed as he callled out with a simple thing. "Oiy Dun! If you're arms still work fucking toss me at that damn thing!"

And if Dun..did toss Lumi towards the plasma creature? He'd reach out with both hands to grasp the fading form of the hammer. He really, wasn't going to let his prize escape his grasp.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[01:11] Dun would stand down the very storm of Helheim itself, plunging into its heart with his scarred form with a cackle of glee and excitement as he released a belly laugh of mindless cheer. No matter how hard the fight, no matter how dangerous it got, even if things got too hot to handle, the clown prince was having the time of his life.

No GODDAMN FEAR.

Forced to stand down the tide of overwhelming, pulsating plasma fire, his teeth would grit as his blackened skin, hardened by mana and sheer resolve, would begin to fray and crack at the ruthless application of heat and pressure. His bones cracked slowly but steadily, muscle tearing and singing as skin burnt away to reveal the hardened muscle beneath.

Yet, the clown had taken worse blows. This would not be his end.

Yet, almost as soon as Dun had regained his sight, he'd LOST IT AGAIN as the searing heat charred the cambion's replacement black, turning the stolen eye to melted goop as he grimaced with agony. The right side of his face was singed black not from mana, but from the sheer brutality of the wound.

Yet, as Lumi drove forward, the warlord would nod break his resolve as he held his ground, laying down a barrage of decaying energy orbs to give the flamboyant wolf boar of Theria his shot.
(Dun)
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[01:13] Well this sucked. This sucked a lot! Lightning, plasma, and magma scathed the grounds they fought upon. All of this was for a hammer-- Good Stars he'd be muttering about this to his daughter for the years to come.

Caelus hacked and slashed where he could-- Letting Iberl's light shine through to slow down the elementals assault. Yet it's barely enough on his end... Even the beams of raw mana proved less than effective against this monstrosity that fought against them.

Soon enough the elemental's before him. It's like the world stopped, truth be told, and as those Mythril orbs stare back at the elemental... He's shocked, burned, singed-- Everything in between. Another pained scream escapes him before he's promptly launched aside.

Spasming. Wide-eyed.

As the battle comes to its conclusion he'd shakily rise to his feet; Falling, even, twice as his leg gave out. Good Stars he needed to retire at this point...

Maybe. Possibly.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[01:18] {NARRATION} And in that moment, that opening granted to the wolf-boar and the Clown Prince…

Quite simply put, Lumi is yeeted forwards, hands outstretched for the hammer. And within several blinks of the eye-

-its ripped from the glowing figure’s chest, leaving a large, gaping wound as he rolls to the ground, hammer in-hand. Behind him, the plasma-creature shudders, seemingly vibrating in agony and fury...then explodes forth in fiery rage towards him.

Into the hammer itself, sending it alight again with blinding incandescence. It’s warm to the touch, and more importantly...

Teine Mallaichte is claimed, and rests within the Fenrir’s grasp. Now that it is his, it is light, and he could feel the power thrumming through it- and yet at the same time, he has an inexplicable urge to create something.

Without warning, he is pulled from this reverie as the platforms they stand upon tremble, and it would take only moments to discern as to why. The conflicts to reach this point had worn down upon the old forge, and even as they look upon it…

Pieces of the platforms begin to fall down into the magma below them. They can still make it back to the portal they used to arrived, yet they need hurry- the gathered magi would have perhaps moments to take what they find of greatest value within the demon blacksmith’s collection afore they must flee.
[01:20] {Item} You picked up Ghost Mythril x2. Dropped by Teine Mallaichte.
[01:23] Well, they'd gotten the hammer!.. Now the platform was beginning to crumble away, however. Furrowing his brow the Lunaris turns his gaze towards the others gathered.

"We have to go NOW."

The Lunaris hissed, far too ready to just rush on off through the portal at his warning. Surely everyone else had half a brain to follow after, right?.. Probably!

Hopefully.

There's a pause however at a familiar hum nearby. Mythril orbs flick towards some Arcanium on an anvil... The same ethereal mist of mana stemming from the bits of ore. Chuckling under his breath he'd rush forward, snagging them before turning towards their exit.

Using Iberl's presence he'd launch himself through the portal; Content to get the Hel out of Hel. They'd got what they came for and then some! Truth be told even with the injuries... He'd call this a win.
(Caelus Lunaris)
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[01:27] Dun was suddenly blinded again, his third eye and second right eye suddenly stolen by hellfire as the clown growled with frustration and pain. It was entirely his luck to go blind a second time in the middle of Helheim, he was JUST STARTING TO GET USED TO SEEING AGAIN GOD DAMMIT.

Yet, even in the darkness of sightlessness, this was not the clown's first rodeo as a blind man. He still sensed the flow of energy about their party, and in that moment a single distant sense of energy would lead the man forward.

Forward...

…


Forward a bit more.

And right into a gleaming bit of silver that would otherwise have been irrelevant to him, had he not been able to sense its spiritual energy. Ghost mithril from the depths of Helheim, a blacksmith's treasure that was now his own.

Nice.

Pocketing the pair of ingots, the clown would turn back the way they came upon Caelus' warning, not wasting any time as he ACCELERATED THE TIMESTREAM AROUND HIM TO SPRINT OFF BACK TOWARDS THE PORTAL FROM WHENCE THEY CAME.

SUCKS TO SUCK, RUN FASTER TEAM

Dun would cackle with cheer and blindness the whole way back.
(Dun)
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[01:28] At the very tail end of facing the wraith it seemed that Task and Lumi were able to retrieve the hammer from it's fading form though injuries were certainly sustained accompanying the onset of all of this.

Finding something that completely resonated with him at the forge here though, aside from the means to close this gate to Helheim for good there'd be a look of reverence as he collected actual celestial ashes into a pouch... The perfect item for sharpening a blade such as Starburn discussed with Lumi.

"Well.. I'm closin' this thin'.... But I also found precisely what we were lookin' for. to help give Starbun tha' edge."
(Robin lux Queen)
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[01:28] Ripping the hammer from the glowing figure's chest was..estatic in someways. Cradling the hammer in his hands before that oh so potent urge to craft fell upon him. Warm to the touch..but now? That urge to continue crafting grew and he was almost keen enough to simply stay in this furnace an craft.

But with everything crumbling around him? The immense power thrumming in it only focused on for just a minute as soon enough? But now?


It was time for him to straight book it. Running back towards the portal with the hammer in hand as he pushed with all his might to keep going even further, finally...closer, and ever closer still, just towards that blessed portal and onto fresher grounds.

Saints it was going to be painful getting back home without the constant urge to smith.
(Lumi Fenrir)
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[01:38] {NARRATION} Caelus surges straight through a falling beam of metal- quite literally sending shards flying out around him in a glorious spray of shrapnel. He manages to clear through to the other side- though that shrapnel is, unfortunately, still flying at rapid pace.

While some would say it sucks to suck, unfortunately, in Dun’s haste, he literally runs into these metal shards- which mostly clangs off of him, excepting where it manages to puncture through the seams in his armour. It’d hurt, but not forever.

Lumi, despite his sudden addiction to smithing, finds himself near-guided through the collapsing structure- seemingly led by the hammer itself. It did seem to contain a spirit, didn’t it? Apparently this spirit didn’t want to end up in the magma below. In a moment of surprisingly clear thinking, Sajid follows the Fenrir’s route without much trouble.

Robin was just shorter on the draw to flee than everyone else- and though he manages to near-catch up, and does succeed in getting through the portal- falling debris scrapes by the back of his head as he fled. It’d bleed, and it’d hurt, but it wouldn’t last past a few weeks.

Barreling through the orange portal with the falling platforms dogging their heels- barely moments after they had arrived upon the other side, it winks shut behind them. Though they escaped not unscathed, they had escaped- with a generous amount of spoils, as well as Lumi having claimed Teine Mallaichte.

Now they simply must trek back through the mountains to Theria.