Author: Elusive Green, Posted: Sat Feb 2, 2019 6:22 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Knife and cleaver held at arm's length in front of him, Tyren continued to take slow steps backwards, away from the shambling, clattering noises that hounded him. Was the door on his right now? Had he turned himself around? If he could keep his head he could get back out, otherwise it would be very easy to wander deeper. It was a very optimistic view considering what he was up against. Something grabbed his arm, shattered bone sinking through the layers of fabric, digging into the soft skin on the inside of his arm. Even with the dagger clenched in his fist, it was his reflex to swing with his knuckles. He felt a jawbone crumble, but the corpse maintained it’s grip, drawing a sharp gasp through clenched teeth from the green eyed man. He took a lurching step backwards, lest he get caught up in more of them, and swung again, feeling the neck snap back, but it still wouldn’t loosen it’s hold.

Were his eyes really beginning to adjust to the intense, impossible darkness that swallowed the ruins? The thought flitted through his mind, as he felt he could almost see the ghost of his attacker’s outline. No, there was light, rapidly getting brighter. An entity of flame darted into the room, immediately setting one of the creatures alight, calling out in a tongue he did not know. Not but a breath behind it, a woman charged in, red hair streaming behind her, sword shimmering with blue starlight. She masterfully parted the creature that gripped him before she spun to his back, a glance over his shoulder showing she had drawn another of her weapons. What a vision she was, he could nearly feel the heat coming off the fiery maiden. “Better now.” It was an honest answer, his heart emboldened by her presence and the glow of her sprite.

The arm still gripped him despite being separated from it’s master, but he knocked it loose and reduced it to dust below his heel. He squared his shoulders, raising his weapons to the three that approached him now. Before he had a chance to strike, another cry in an ancient tongue caught his ear. When he looked, he had just moments to dive to the side, back and to his right, trying to not collide with his new ally, as a second newcomer leapt into the fray with a battle ax. She did not strike them with it though, instead releasing a freezing mist from her maw. As unsteady as the dead were already, they were near petrified in the cold. She approached, asking if he needed aid, and jolt went through him. She looked human, for the most part, but he could recognize in her features the changes he was only beginning to go through.

“No.” It was another truthful answer. Tyren pulled himself to his feet, shaking some of the rime from his clothes and rubbing his forearm. “It’s just a scratch, and I would like to go deeper.” He had a second start with the second woman that had arrived. He’d been too distracted by her draconian features at first, but he realized she was dressed in the strangest manner. It had been a rare occasion for a traveler like him to see the inside of a larger manor, but he was well traveled and indeed he had. She looked like a servant girl for a wealthy Lord, yet, there she was in the derelict ruins wielding a battle ax. He raised his hand as though to say something, then thought better of it, instead opting to retrieve his weapons, and spin them in his hands, joining the newly reinforced line against the dead.

Author: coloneldegrant, Posted: Fri Feb 1, 2019 11:30 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Thomas was bit …..overwhelmed. The Champion of Goddess of Death was ……….. someone………. not exactly someone he had expected from listening to tales and sermons provided by priests of that faith that occasionally found their way into his home village. To be frank the wraith woman was one that was a better fit of how Reaper's Hand would look like in his mind. But you know what they say about expectations and whatnot. Still it didn't diminished his fear one bit, for he was still within deep dank caves filled with…. who knows what. Then scream for help was heared and Mirannada charged down the hall quikcer than one can blink. Now he was left with lady in strange armor and scary as all circles of Luxuria Mortiferum combined, wraith lady.

Said lady started speaking again………. if the words she spoke were to come from any other person, then Thomas would snap back with some sarcasm or a retort along the lines of "I wll bloody know that I shouldn't have been here in the forst place but I didn't much have a choice in the matter". But words came from Adrea, more reaper looking lady than actual Reaper's Hand. So he just nodded along though the part about Jesgil filled him with some hope that he would leave this accursed place but in a momment.

But that too was quickly dashed with a quick "Excuse me", some magic he would be never able to understand and a charge down the same hallway the lady Mirannda went into. Thomas was left bit stumped for a momment untill he shook his head and took after the battle maid while screaming.
- WAIT FOR ME, I HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO GET OUT OF HERE.

Author: Jesgil, Posted: Thu Jan 31, 2019 7:18 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Jesgil smiled at the stuttering man, stepping forth and to his side before using her free hand to rub his back, as if to calm him down. "It is alright. You are in good company." She allowed Ardea to speak her words, clearly warning him of the dangers that rested ahead and, should he need it, Jesgil would lead him back to the surface. "She is right," she assured, "for it is our duty to rescue those who have become lost or in need of escaping to lead them back to the exit. There, the team will treat any injuries you have gained upon this adventure and a warm stew to fill your belly." Of course, this would not stop her from returning back down after a single rescue, especially with the cry for help coming from another. "If you may excuse me."

Her gaze then shifted away from the tattered man, eyes gaining a hint of gold as they began to slit in the presence of the flame as her tongue clicked, "Awaken, thy blood, and grant me thy ice!" in a Draoncian language. Her ears took a slightly different shape, pointed, but much shorted and bolder than an elf's, and her teeth sifted to bear that more of fangs. With a dash forward, Jesgil leaped into the mound of undead, exhaling a wall of frost from her muzzle, coating the nearby undead in ice. Enough time for her to head over next to the fallen one. "Are you alright? Do you need any healing or aid out?"

Author: Valravn, Posted: Thu Jan 31, 2019 12:52 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

The two women seemed to recognize each other, indirectly. The maidservant bearing a weapon was amicable and courteous, lending her aid to others less fortunate and in need. Their conversation revealed more useful information–the woman named Mirannda, the Reaper's Hand, was in fact the representative of the deity of death. The rest of their talk revealed minor details, such as the names of personal possessions and familiars. Miss Jesgil Yamar was a good addition to any group, such as their own. Her manner and poise showed an inclination towards cooperation and capability in terms of self-defense. Even if one of them was temporarily indisposed they would be able to cover for each other. The situation did not deem it necessary to provide an introduction again, so this would be put off for a later point in time.

While Mirannda's attentions were drawn away by the sounds of a struggle, Ardea attended to the whimpering man dressed in garments full of holes. A glance told her much; this man was in no condition to continue down here in the darkness without company. Old wounds and poor physical protection abounded, insufficient to preserve his life should his weapon or wits fail him. "You should leave this place." The armored woman advised. "The path will only become more perilous from here. The enemy is one who no longer breathes and feels no pain. Are you prepared to fight for your own life, to give no quarter when staring death in the face?" Her voice held no condescension, level and eerily calm. "To balk in fear is to accept death in these tunnels. Turn back and return to the surface." It was hard to understand what he was saying with his stammering. The way he quaked seemed as if he would fall to pieces at any given moment. Perhaps if she could recall the feeling of fear, she would have shown sympathy. "Should you decide so, Lady Yamar here can assist you to the surface." With a hand she motioned to Jesgil, whose affable demeanor would surely be less intimidating then Ardea's dispassionate coldness.

Author: Nix, Posted: Wed Jan 30, 2019 4:57 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Ardea’s words brought forth memories from DaeLuin. Once upon a time, Mirannda had woken up from being buried alive, with no memory as to who she was, or what happened to her. The phoenix’s gaze softened with empathy. There was much more she wanted to say, words of encouragement, but she did not know how the woman would take them. Mirannda turned towards the new woman, making it a total of three in their odd little mix. She was not dressed as the champion would expect, but she knew better than to take things at face value.

Surprise wrote itself all over her expression at the mention of her goddess. Of course, anyone who knew of the current deities and their titles would recognize the Goddess of Death’s title, but she had never introduced herself as the champion before now. ”Yes, it does, Jesgil. It is a pleasure to meet one who has met Mirthadra Din’an. She fares quite well, I shall let her know you inquired.” Calcifer glowed blue at the compliment as Mirannda eyed him with a playful smirk. ”His youth fits his nature well, I think.”

Yet, she watched as Ardea walk over to the stranger, Mirannda could not help but admire the precision. It appeared the woman was a very capable agent for Dalanesca. The male, however, seemed seized by fear. Each step was halting, his entire frame trembled. She eyed him critically, quickly dismissing the tattered clothing a temporary state of being. Something about the women was terrifying him, but he held his weapon as if it was no stranger. That sword was not picked up by a panicked, inexperienced mouse trapped in a corner. It was that fact alone that spawned a slight smile from the phoenix.

She waved her hand. ”No need for formalities. Like Dalanesca, I care not for titles. Mirannda or Mira is sufficient.” Calcifer opened his mouth, inhaling a bit, causing her eyes to snap to him with clear irritation. ”Just Mira or I send you to seek out Elata.” As Mirannda’s mind went two directions, the first to scold Elata for planting that name in Calcifer’s mind, the second to direct the group further in, a single word from a new voice echoed, coming from deeper within. A plea for help. Without hesitation, the phoenix began charging down the hall, Calcifer bobbing in matching pace.

There was no fear of becoming lost in mines, her own safety was abandoned to the wind as she rushed. Her sword was still unsheathed in her hand, mixing its starry glow with Calcifer’s own shining warmth. Just ahead, there was a darker section, suggesting an opening in the wall just outside her sphere of light. Upon reaching it, she paused for just a moment, taking in the scene that revealed itself upon her presence. Mirannda had entered a tomb of sorts, where the miners would bury their kin within the rich earth they spent their life working.

A single, living being was under attack by a plethora of angry souls bound to their decrepit bodies. No direction was given to Calcifer as he flew forward, yelling obscure words in an ancient language as he lit one on fire. Mirannda groaned his name as she rushed into the fray, her sword whistling through the still air as it sliced through leathered skin and brittle bone while she was unsheathing a dagger of deep blue and red metal in the other hand. She stood defensively at the stranger’s back, wondering how she was going to keep the flaming sprite in control and his flames from burning anyone other than the dead. "You okay?"

Author: Elusive Green, Posted: Wed Jan 30, 2019 6:53 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

The darkness was unnatural. Oppressive. He strained, his eyes aglow in the darkness but they could not pierce it. Usually, he could at least make out something in the shadows of night. Only the deepest of caves had held a darkness that would blind his eyes, and yet he had barely left the square of light marking the entrance and shadow enveloped him. Nothing but the dank reek of mildew and tomb mold assaulted his nostrils. Stagnant air that was neither stirred by the breeze, or sterilized by the sunlight. This was an old place. A place of death. Unfortunately, old places often held interesting mysteries, and Tyren’s curiosity had finally gotten the better of him. It was places like these where he learned the runes he worked into his craft, and to add something ancient to his grimoire always held an appeal.

One hand trailed along the wall. The stone was still smooth. Even lichen craved light to spread, so while the outside crumbled into disrepair, the inside was pristine. His footsteps were even, and measured, barely lifting his boots from the ground. Were there an obstacle or should the floor suddenly fall away, he didn’t want to miss it. That had already happened once, and it had taken him a moment to collect his disheveled self after his tumble down the flight of stairs. He still scolded himself softly for not going back up, and returning with one of the other adventurers and their mage light, but while he had faltered in his journey before, this was not yet the time to go back. The magic in his blood began to tingle, as it did in a foreign place on the edge of memory, and he wondered what he could be awakening to.

Anxiety was beginning to make his scales bristle. The patches were thickest on his forearm and down his back, curling around his sides under his clothing. The outside of his legs and shin were also protected by them, but they were hardly a suit of armor. He pushed back his hood. Aside from the faint echoes of voices he assumed were other treasure hunters, he had yet to detect anything out of the ordinary, but he could feel a difference in the air up ahead. The next step he took, his fingers brushed away from the wall, and he was standing in a larger chamber. He concentrated a moment, feeling his strength well up, and stomped. The stone was solid, and didn’t waiver in the slightest, but the heavy footfall echoed around the room.

Groping for the wall again, he kept following to his right, his heart starting to pick up. His fingers slipped from the stone again, and his palm landed flat on a dusty alcove. A frown creased his features in the darkness, gritting his teeth. It was empty as he searched, although dust and the tattered remains of fabric were, thus far, an unusual find. He shuffled further along, heart pounding in his ears and found another break in the wall. Another long, shallow alcove. He couldn’t reach the back of it, although the top was low, like the first one. The fact it was empty, did not make him feel any better. His stomach dropped as his mind assembled the image of other catacombs he had stumbled into. He knelt down, and there was another hollow like the first two below it. The kind of inclusion where a body would be laid to rest. “Blood and ashes…”

His hand immediately grasped the heavy cleaver that he carried, and tore it free from it’s scabbard. Perhaps it wasn’t a real weapon, but it would hew through flesh and bone with avarice. They were all empty. In a place that reeked of death, why were there no bodies? Did something move? His head whipped to the right. Was his mind playing tricks on him now? So this was the true danger of this place. Like so many others, you wanted your prey in the trap before it was sprung. His other hand found his dagger, and he struck the two together. No sparks flew from the steel in the unnatural black, but the sharp hiss of grinding metal did awaken a commotion towards the end of the room. A part of his brain figured it was the direction he would have gone had he continued straight from the hallway, and presumably deeper into the ruins. The cracking and clattering was not a part of his imagination any longer, and he could hear it over the pounding of his own blood. He took a wild swing in the black and met nothing. Adrenaline was making his spine tingle, and he crouched lower, weapons clenched in a white knuckled grip. If whatever it was got the drop on him, he’d be done for. He could already feel the phantoms of a dozen hands reaching out for him, and as strong as one could be, it was easy to be overwhelmed. That could not happen. He let out a loud roar, throwing his head back in challenge and crashing his blades together again. The clattering was getting louder. How close were they? The muscles in his legs bunched as he tensed to spring. 'Now? Not yet. Now!?' The sound was ringing in his ears, echoing all around him. The door was to his left. He had to go. He put his shoulder low and exploded outwards, ploughing into several decrepit bodies. Another heavy swing from the cleaver bit into something this time, separating it into two pieces he could not distinguish. Were they human? “HELP!” He stumbled forward over bodies as hands grasped at his cloak and shawl. He put his hand out for the wall and staggered as it met empty air. He took several steps forward, hands now outstretched as a blind man feeling around. He had missed the doorway, and was now circling away from whatever it was in the large chamber with him. He swung behind him, nothing, he followed the first swing of the cleaver with his dagger, and knocked a hand away. “Light burn you infernal dead!” He was facing them again, he thought, and took a few hurried steps backwards, gritting his teeth and scowling at the darkness. He had no idea where he was in the room anymore. “Shit.”

Author: coloneldegrant, Posted: Mon Jan 28, 2019 7:31 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Thomas was very confused and scared…… did that ball of fire just spoke to him? Di he had just seen a woman wielding a gigantic axe and wearing some realy strange…… "armor?"…. though that was realy forgotten when he heard her, the third voice of wraith woman. She said that she meant him no harm…. yet her voice was so strange to his ears making him more afraid…… yet….. he could try to escape but……..

He gulped, and stood up, because his fear caused him to fall upon his backside. And with trembling feet he stepped out into the light where three women were standing.

In presence of a Champion of Goddess of Death, an Amnesiac Reaper and Draconic Battle Maid one must be either incredibly exceptional or just mundane. Thomas could be described as the latter. His tunic riddled with holes, one sleeve being torn at the elbow revealing an forearm covered in bandage that was never changed. His hair, on top of the head and the face, was long, unkempt and probably never washed. Trousers in similar way to tunic had holes in them, and in similar fashion had their legs torn at knees, showing the world bruised and cut calves. His nose was crooked in manner that suggested that it was at one point broken, he features that weren't obscured by clothes were somewhat gaunt, early sings malnourishment. Overall he looked like begger sraight of the streets with two exceptions.

The Sword he held and gloves which covered his hands.

Gloves were made out of thick, dark hide and looked to be in prisitne condition. Such gloves would normally belong to a blacksmith fo some kind. Sword, which was held within death's grip by the man, was in condition very much like the gloves, prisitine and well maintained and despite lacking any decoration the craftsmanship of it  was impeccable . With it's blade starting out wider and thicker at the base and becoming more narrow and thinner at the point. Not to mention the double fuller in the middle of the blade. Truly a weapon worth it's salt……. so it was even more strange to see it grasped by man like him.

He looked upon evereyone gathered, with brown eyes filled with fear and started speaking.
- I ….am ehm am……- his voice was deep and raspy, as if his throat dried up momments earlier - ehm am i ah i ahm - words were stuck in his mouth, he gulped again in vain hope that it would enable him to speak. - 'am sorry to be creepin' m-m-m-m……… M'lady Mirannda. Was just…….. scared 's all I ….I ehm I am bi-bi-bit bit lost……. ehm. - He then sniffed loudly and rubbed his nose against the sleeve.
- I will be ehm ehh mhmh ehhhhh ……..

Author: Jesgil, Posted: Sun Jan 27, 2019 8:37 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

As Jesgil followed the sprite, she, too, noticed the man cowering his boots around a corner, placing the pair in a position to quite easily see them. While the sprite's tongue made an attack upon his pride, she merely gave him a smile and wave before walking passed to the other two women who resided just beyond. One was more direct, yet the other was more coincidence to catch as they headed closer. Still, the one's who hair shared a similar shine to Jesgil's made quite the interesting statement. The title she gave out: It rang similar to a messorem, one she heard from Death herself as she hid her identity, but the impact was much higher.

"Does that then make you a Champion for Lady Dalanesca?" she asked boldly, making sure to use a title to go with it (After all, from what she recalled, it should only be not used when its within her presence). "Please do tell me she is holding herself well. Anyways, I am Jesgil Yamar," she told the pair, offering the two a bow after resting the axe's handle behind her feet, "And this here is my dear Tillan," in reference to her axe once she got back to a normal stance. "I have been working with the Rescue and Care team at the entrance and made my way around before I met Young Calcifer here. Quicte the gentleman he was to me," she chuckled. "I figured the undead would not have the power to command such an entity, even one so young, so I figured he would be bounded with one of the explorers down here.

"Well, either way, its my duty to aid those who have delved into these caverns, whether it be a need for food, medical supplies, or tending of equipment. Though unlike the others, I do find myself pretty capable myself." Maybe she would be selling herslef too hard if she also added that Lady Dalanesca complimented her combat expertise…

Author: Valravn, Posted: Sun Jan 27, 2019 8:45 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

She did not know her, that Ardea gathered from how the crimson woman spoke. Hopeful desires extinguished and the truth now clearer her unasked questions were answered. Death's emissary showed cordiality towards her, even welcoming assistance and company. She had no reason to refuse, so she accepted. "I will assist you in whatever way I can, Reaper's Hand. My name is Ardea. Regrettably I have naught more to give about myself, as I no longer recall." This was the truth. Had she found more about her own origin, she would not withhold it from Mirannda. As the emissary turned her head, more unfamiliar faces came to join them. A small fire sprite belonging to the red-haired woman brought another dressed in the attire of a domestic servant bearing a large battle ax. The sprite greeted his master, informing the three of them of the presence of a fourth person hidden in the darkness of the mine's tunnels.

Turning again back where the sprite had came from, her eyes could discern the outline of the timorous man poorly attempting to conceal himself. "Luminatio." Casting a small glyph with her hand, a sphere of light manifested beside her. The vial of willowisps no longer needed, it was put away as she turned on her heel to approach the male mercenary. Her ghostly 'aura' gone, she was only slightly less terrifying as the light revealed her armor and great scythe. Boots rhythmically resonating as she walked, at this moment she more resembled an emissary of death than a spellsword. "You have nothing to fear, we bear no intent to harm you." She reassured him. The Reaper's Hand herself declared a vested interest in only the souls that had been trapped here, not those still with time left to live.

Author: Nix, Posted: Sun Jan 27, 2019 12:41 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Mirannda nodded. ”I am, and I have.” Whatever the woman was, as she came closer, things became clearer. She had heard of clothing that made one seem more spectral and coupled with pure black locks, played tricks with the eyes in this darkness. ”The mine is large and extensive, and I am but one person. That is to say, I would not turn down any assistance.” The phoenix turned her head and watched her familiar’s progress until he rounded a bend. Calcifer was rewarded by the sight of a curious person indeed. A maid with an axe was walking toward him.

Even more curious was the way she addressed him. He blinked with surprise as he froze in the air, her hand extending toward him. With the exception of Mirannda and possibly children, no one ever reached out to him. However, he held his excitement and did not allow himself to touch her, just allowed her close enough to feel his heat. ”Both, madam. My master has many sources, and takes appropriate precautions.” As he began to lead the frilly, out of place maid, Calcifer also thought about how much a reckless, stubborn woman his master was.

On the way back, Calcifer paused in his path and looked off to the side. ”You there, ya, you, the bearded male. Sorry, but ya look like a gaping fish at present. If you want to live, I suggest following me to my master. Mira will make sure you are protected until we return back to the surface. And ya don’t have to worry, she doesn’t bite.” Calcifer chuckled at his joke as he continued on his way to Mirannda. ”Mirannda, I found this lady and some clueless, scared lookin’ guy back there. Other than that, all clear.”

”Thank you Calcifer.” The phoenix took in the sight of the lady her sprite brought back. A single eyebrow rose in regard to the attire, but nothing would be said about that. ”I am Mirannda, Reaper’s Hand. This is Calcifer, and sorry if his tongue gets away from him at times. I think he’s still young.” She smiled warmly at them. ”And don’t let my title create any misconceptions. I’m not a cold-blooded, heartless assassin. Right now, I am only interested in releasing the lost souls.”

Author: coloneldegrant, Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 10:38 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Thomas looked upon two women intently when they spoke. Words poping up that sounded very important….. yet he could not discern their meaning as he was never faced with such things before. Though what brought him back from his thoughts was sudden movement, the ball of fire flew into his direction! He went quickly behind the cover of the wall, huging the stone as if his life depended on it. Thankfuly it seemed that sprite hasn't noticed him…… or it just ignored him at the very least and it went down furhter into tunnel. He tried to control his breath, to keep it quiet. He was somewhat succeding in this….. but…… then he started to wonder…. what are those two in the chamber doing? He could try to look….. I mean the sprite was gone and there isn't any light left so while he won't be able to see anything but they too shall not able to see him.

So he took a little peak and…..and…. went back behind the cover once again, heart pounding, breathing shallow and unsteady. The commoner almost squealed like a small girl but he quickly brought his left hand over his mouth, letting out but muffled barely heard sound.

"The Banshee woman….." his thoughts run….. "She ….. she…. looked here….. in my direction" his eyes started to dart around, darkness was everywhere…. but only now he noticed how suffocating. He could barely breath now, irrational fear squeezing air out of his lungs and not letting him take anymore. He tried to reassure himself that the gasthly woman have not seen him, how could she? But well…. he had seen her somehow. In a way that one sees death just behind the corner, waiting to reap your soul and take it to far beyond. His hand was still over his mouth, touching his long, unkepmt and greasy beard that hasn't see shower in….. in well ever. He was paralyzed, eyes closed, hand cluthing a sword he doesn't know how to use. He was waiting, waiting in fear for the end that would surely come his way.

Author: Jesgil, Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 10:09 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

The crippling remains of the undead had once again laid in pieces upon the floor of the routes the mines had taken. "Oh dear me," Jesgil stated, stepping over one what had been sliced through the spine, "I should find Joriv after this for another Incineration run." If it wasn't to simply clean the halls of corpses to dust, it would be to help try to keep the entry level somewhat clean and safe from disease, though any deeper would provide too much hassle as the numbers simply thickened up. Still, the main objective would be to help clear rubble, aid those close to the entrance, and be able to aid deeper in should any kind of alert or warning would seek out the entrance of the maze of tunnels.

Despite heading deeper in, it seemed her path was getting brighter before a small ball of fire floating into her sight: A flame sprite. Easily not a wild one as, in Jesgil's mind at least, fuel would be hard to come by here. "Why hello there, little one," she told the small sprite, moving her empty hand up to greet it as its flames made the silver strands in her hair shine more than the crimson. The biggest shine, however, came from the obsidian shard that rested around her neck. "Tell me, are you here to seek me out, or were you just investigating?" Despite many clearing the paths before them, it was not unheard of to be jumped from behind as the undead crawled in from other parts of the tunnel.

"If you need to lead me to your master to ensure I am trustworthy, than feel free to lead the way," she told the sprite, her smile radiating across the face of the maid wielding an axe…

Author: Valravn, Posted: Thu Jan 24, 2019 11:50 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

The Reaper's Hand…why did none of this sound familiar? A woman's voice came from the darkness in response to her approach, and in the dimness of the earthen walls she saw flickers of red around a face with what appeared to be a ball of fire. Ardea answered, voice echoing down to the woman's ears. "Your words say you are an emissary of death. You must be, if the dead fear the living. Have you come to ferry the souls of the lost to the afterlife?" Closer now, her form and shape were clearer to Mirannda's sight. The ethereal glow was from a spectral cloak and the darkness surrounding her became long raven tresses. In one hand she held a glass vial which willowisps flitted from, and the other a great scythe. "If so, then I have no further purpose to remain here. The dead will be sent to their eternal rest." This woman, did she know her? The chance was unlikely, perhaps wishful thinking. With nothing which to recall every face was a stranger, every place a first encounter. There was magic within her, that the tall dark-haired woman could tell. Bold and bright, yet ebbing at the edges–and something stronger mixed between.

Pale blue eyes stared back at the red-haired woman from an impassive face. No ill intent or hostility came from Ardea, rather a distinct lack of intent emanated from her behavior. Her actions seemed all based on unconscious habit than active volition. To those of lesser mettle, she could have come off as being quite intimidating. Despite that, she knew not to provoke another into combat unless necessary. More footsteps nearby drew closer, and she turned to look over her shoulder at their new company. Perhaps they had more knowledge of the past of this place, or anything useful to guide her next steps. If only she could remember…

Author: Nix, Posted: Wed Jan 23, 2019 4:15 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

As her heels clicked against the stone ground, it was not unexpected to hear other echoes bouncing through the tunnels nearby. Clinks and the clatter of bones disturbed the rhythmic steps. The phoenix knew she was not the only living being down here, searching to make their fortune. So long as none rose their blade against her, Mirannda had no qualms with anyone. To be safe, she allowed the mental walls she had spent so long building to fall, opening herself up to more than just shadow and flame.

"Someone approaches," Calcifer whispered, his voice akin to the soothing crackles of a campfire. Mirannda nodded once. Upon reaching a branching path, she spied a ghostly aura. It appeared to be a woman of sorts, but the poor lighting made it difficult to discern the true nature. The phoenix stared at her, unflinching, in her attempt to work her next step. 'Stink of smoke. Smoke and death.' A voice of a spider sent a shiver down her spine, a voice that she had opened herself up to. Mirannda could hear the creature scuttle back down the path.

"Only the dead have fear of me, for I am Mirannda, the Reaper's Hand," she called out to the woman. 'Dirty stink, now smoke? Lizard too. Home defiled. Deeper, gotta go deeper.' The phoenix frowned as she heard this comment. This was an entirely new creature than the spider before, one she wasn't quite familiar with by the sound of its voice alone. However, it was approaching her, meaning there were at least one or two more people from that direction. "Cal, recon down that tunnel." Her little fireball of a familiar began bobbing through the darkness, happy to oblige in any way for her.

Author: coloneldegrant, Posted: Wed Jan 23, 2019 9:42 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Deep within the caverns and mines of Kingdom ruined centuries ago, many a treasure could be found. Riches beyond ones wildest dreams, an enticing offer to those of strong wills and sharp wits….. or at least to those that think of themselves in such manner. Many now come seeking glory or to better their lot in life inside dampy caves filled with all matter of flesh hungry bugs and restless souls. Ruins around the entrance to old caverns were bustling with life, adventurers of all sizes, backrgounds and creeds gathered to fill their pockets, though many of them will not manage to do anything of the sort. Many will come out empty handed, many more will not come out at all, the caverns becoming their tombs. But if there is treasure to be found, if there is possibility of never having to work again in their lives, many will try their luck and consequences be damned.

Altough there is at least one man among the adventuring lot who did not come here seeking riches of the ruined Kingdom. Nor did he came seeking glory or to be remembered by song…… no….. he just got lost.

Thomas Druh was already deep within the caverns, not realy knowing why….. he kinda remembers wandering about some ruins….. bieng jumped by some wild animals….. and then things get hazy to say the least. The commoner scratched his head his head in confusion and then shruged.
- Well at th' 'ery least I ain't bein' haunded by the wolfs again - he muttered under his nose and went about wandering through the cave…… which was fairly hard since he didn't have any source of light on him……. he went in cicles for about good few hours before finding a tunnel that would let him press forward. Though as he went on further he might have started reconsidering his choice. He heard noises, noises of a fight. Someone was up ahead of him fighting against something. He waited a bit untill sounds died down and proceeded to sneak forwards, placing his steps with extreme care as to not make any noise. He saw some faint light at the end of the tunnel, but instead of coming ou there and looking for the source, he instead chose to hug the wall and only slightly lean his head from behind his cover.

He saw two women one which could be described as fiery, confidnet and ready, the other was ghastly almost like a wraith or banshee of sorts. Above the red heade warrior hang the source of light…. somekind of small ball of fire…….

Thomas was not certain what he should do…… should he greet them? Leave his cover and risk his life? Or maybe he should just wait it out behind the safety the stone vacern wall. Well…… he chose neither and just stared at the two, as he was lost in his thoughts.

Author: Jesgil, Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2019 8:57 PM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Jesgil noticed quite the number of adventurers gathering and preparing in Adeluna. It was preparations for a major excursion, that was for sure, with many ensuring they carried holy water and other symbols to act as wards. It did not make much to gather information from some of them to learn of massive happenings nearby at the ruins and it had caught everyone's attention. Guess that explain's the traffic, ran through the young woman's head as, while people did venture over there, it was never in such massive numbers! It was enough for her to make the journey herself and,, at the very least, aid a medical camp in those who worn themselves out on escaping.

After days of travel, she arrived on the scene, helping cook meals for the exhausted and mending the wounded that stepped out. Some were obviously confused with a woman dressed in a frilly maid outfit greeting them, decorated with an obsidian shard necklace that shimmered, while others seemed to have taken a bit too much joy into it (their treatments were not exactly gentle). Still, every now and then, each member shifted from caretaker to rescue op by deving into the ruins to try and find any who had trouble moving or to report those that had fallen in the ruin themselves. Today, it was Jesgil's turn.

"Awaken, my blood, and grant me thy steel," Jesgil muttered to herself in Draconian tongue before a beam of light came before her, solidifying into her trusted axe, Tillan. "Now be a dear and help me make sure things are alright, okay?" she asked the axe as she petted the blade with a whetstone, ensuring the weapon had a solid edge before venturing forth. The glances she got, again, confused folk, as many entered inside with many forms of protection, and yet here she was, stepping inside with such a frilly maid dress with a hum in her voice…

Author: Valravn, Posted: Tue Jan 22, 2019 11:00 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

Silently like a shadow, the swing of a scythe cut through the body of a risen corpse releasing an ethereal flame from its physical prison. The soft clinking sound of her armor echoed through the dark like bells that had long went out of tune. They had been trapped, abandoned and forgotten–but soon they would find closure. It would be all over soon, she thought as another pile of bones fell back to the dust. Venturing ever deeper into the mines, she wondered if this place held a connection to her past. It was hard to know, knowing so little. With only her name and naught else where should she start? There was…that memory. Faint and distant, of a place where she had lived. It seemed like a monastery or some sort of cloister, the sharp contrast of shadow and light forming shapes through the windows and stone architecture. Where was that? Was that place still standing? Why was she there? Only that which she had lost held the answers. Answers that the people she too had forgotten knew. What she did know was a deep-seated desire to send those who had stayed too long out of the realm of the living.

With each slice, she broke their earthly bonds and freed them to move onto the afterlife. She didn't remember how she knew there was life after death. In her past, had she been a pious person? An empty tome with pages wiped clean of any mark or blemish, that was a fitting description of her mind now. "It will all be over soon. The end of your time will soon arrive." The dark armored gown brushed against the walls as the wavering lights of willowisps illuminated her path. All the while she kept searching, looking for something–anything familiar. Edelweiss was a kingdom long forgotten from ages past. Aside from its wealth, not much had remained of its presence. There were many things the world would discover again and the people would learn. With her sight she sought out the undead here to give them their final rest, but within the twisting passages she sensed someone among the living. Out of curiosity she followed it, until she could faintly make out shapes. With hair black as night and her long gown, surrounded by wisps bearing a scythe, she appeared more like a banshee herself. 

Author: Nix, Posted: Mon Jan 21, 2019 9:47 AM, Post Subject: Find Death's Embrace [Open, Event]

There was so much to learn, almost too much. Angela of life, Dalanesca of death and desire, Zanar, and Lokir were the only names she knew of the deities. Mirannda knew that there were more, but she didn't know any of them yet. Then, to make matters worse, there were the deities of old in the vast history of Revaliir. Somehow, their influence was beginning to reach through the fabric of time and muck things up for the present.

As Mirannda pondered on the situation, she decided that what mattered was Life and Death had been tampered with. Those who were shut in the mine were stolen from the lifestream between the two domains. Countless souls were lost, doomed to linger in cold, dark halls and caverns. With no relief, no escape, it was no wonder that they were now rising their decaying bodies now that fresh air began to flow once more. Were they stirring out of spite, or were they merely wishing to escape? Regardless of their hopes, Mirannda had a job to do.

The champion of death and desire, Reaper's Hand, felt that it was her obligation to return the poor souls to Dalanesca for judgment. She was dressed in her traditional elvish leather armors, with swords on each hip and dagger hilts sticking up from her boots. Fiery hair was pulled back into a single tail, with a few defiant short hairs dangling before her face. If she found some treasure, that'd be a bonus. With her sapphire sword in hand casting its beautiful stary glow, Calcifer floating above her, she felt undefeatable. Calcifer Novis, her fire sprite, looked much like a little fireball, pulsing with energy as he was ready to help his master fight the undead.