Graded &nbsp; [Shadowfen-Ryke] Shadowfen&#039;s Dungeon Dive

Uasal

gmimperfecti

Keeping in mind the items which would fetch a better price, as mentioned by Varic, as well as the opportunity of trading cuts with the Innkeeper or even bringing whole creatures for the mentioned Scholar Eldrin, Cook’s mind and objectives were fully organized. And noticing, at least in his eyes, the raptor’s friendly disposition towards Laurien, the middle-aged man was glad. Despite having looked dejected when he received only scraps of the mouth-watering BBQ, Desmond didn’t seem to have taken offense against the metallic-prosthetic-assisted female, or at least that is what he thought. Cook’s eyes widened a few notches as the raptor revealed his sickled claw, thinking that a slashing from it would certainly cause some damage. The human grinned as he heard the short creature’s violent disposition, himself not being much different and only keeping it under wraps until the time was right.

When he heard a female voice coming from behind him, he turned around, his eyes fixed on the pale-skinned female with crimson eyes, even straightening his slightly hunched self in the process. It appeared that his memory wasn’t faulty just yet, remembering her as the one who had requested a rock of salt from the Innkeeper earlier. "That sounds just dandy, Miss. If my partners here are all set, I reckon we best git to it and tackle that dungeon pronto." He told Nebula, already gearing himself for whatever it was about to happen. However, the human was clearly not geared enough. He watched in clear awe and disbelief as hands moved through the air and energy crackled, even being felt by someone who was stunted, at least for the moment, towards the arcane. “What in the tarnation is that?!” Cook thought to himself, his eyes narrowing after the surprise. “Lord Almighty…” The voice escaped his lips in a tone barely above a whisper. This being the very first time he had been exposed to such a clear display of magic, the middle-aged man wondered if this is also what the raptor meant when he talked about taking magic classes. It was clear that his early ideas of magicians and possible parlor tricks were incorrect. Extremely so.

Assuming he had to walk through the rift in space-time, he swallowed hard before taking measured steps towards him, steeling his nerves the best he could. It would take but a moment for his spatial dislocation, now finding himself face-to-face with the eerie scenery around the dungeon’s maw. His hazel eyes darted, left and right, taking every detail in: from the miasma of vegetation to the trees in their sickly visage. The last one, in particular, gave him a quick flashback of a dark, dense forest. In it, the fog was so thick that one could barely see a few feet in front of them without some kind of aid, like a flashlight or lantern. Cook’s eyes next fixed towards the equipment and other belongings left by other souls who attempted to delve within the dungeon, as well as the discarded prizes that were brought back from the delve. The middle-aged human could taste the saline composition in the air, his lips becoming even drier than usual. His left hand instinctively reached into his pocket, his palm wrapping around the pendant which he had received from Mira. In tandem, his right one reached onto his belt, drawing his chef’s knife from it. The sharp object, being tightly held by its wooden handle, offered a small comfort to him, familiar and yet foreign. With that, he waited for the others, his eyes fixed at the dungeon’s entrance, ready to see this through, regardless of the consequences.

II-CinderRadcliff-II · Mar 6, 2024

TRAVERSING SOMEWHERE

Lauren turned to face Cook upon catching him approaching from the corner of her eye, her eyes narrowing a little upon seeing that Desmond and him seemed to get along swell. How he could tolerate the raptor was beyond her understanding. As he introduced himself and suggested that the three of them group up she turned her gaze towards Desmond specifically, her cold glare staying locked onto them as she intently listened to what Cook said. Her gaze broke off from the raptor as Nebula approached them as well, noticing her demeanor was much more stoic - almost emotionless with the way they seemed to speak. And then the raptor himself seemed to resonate with what Cook had said, although he seemed to like her as much as her glare from earlier suggested she liked him with the stink eye she could almost feel him giving her. Watching him getting frustrated at Nebula for not greeting him as she did with Cook was amusing. She concluded her business with Varic as she put the pendant into one of her pants pockets before sliding the breastplate overtop of her warm coat, looking back to Cook with an answer to his question.
"I don't mind joining your group, as we share the similar goal of exploring the dungeon." Lauren approved of Cooks invitation as she gave a brief glance to Desmond, taking a few steps towards him and kneeling down to whisper something to them. "And as for you... I ask that you keep your ear rupturing screeches for emergencies, alongside that you lead the way inside of the dungeon - seeing as how you seem like the type to pull something on people who feed you scraps." Lauren advised the raptor as her hand of skin and bone softly glided over his feathers, suggesting that she suspected him of planning some form of revenge for her little harmless prank. She thought it would be better if he knew about her suspicions of him now rather than later, as with her guard up she figured he'd be less likely to try getting revenge... Whatever counted as revenge at least. The mere possibility of revenge was enough to warrant putting her guard up, seeing as how she couldn't imagine how getting on a raptors bad side could ever lead to anything good - or at least, funny.

It was as she got back up on both feet that a portal created by Nebula opened up. Her curiosity tried compelling her to be the first to step forward, but she was hesitant to jump in considering the swirling fragments depicting unknown lands and tempting whispers offering false promises. And then as she watched Cook steeling his nerves and walking through, she was quick to follow suit - the disorientation from traversing from one place to another in the blink of an eye barely phasing her. Perhaps it was because she had grown so accustomed to experimenting and studying Pandora's Prism in her past life, though that ancient relic from her original world and the portal Nebula created seemed to be inherently different. She was quick to observe the area and even quicker to start looking around, picking up the various journals scattered before the entrance. Some of the books were thoroughly torn asunder, others seemed too soaked in mud and/or blood to read their contents. And while there were still a few that were still intact and clean, all of that remained seemed to only hold warning of what had attacked them before they were - presumably - dragged back down to their tomb. Lauren had paused for a moment as she closed one of the journals she had quickly skimmed through, closing the book gently before looking back to Cook.
"Hey... Can you lend me a hand quick?" Lauren asked him quietly with a bit of a downtrodden expression in her eyes, as she then quietly gathered the remnants of each adventurers belongings and organized them into a growing pile. Using what little information she had and some mud from the ground, she wrote names upon certain items for future search parties to find and bring back to Shadowfen. This was all she could do for the fallen adventurers. While it was far from a proper funeral, at least their souls could rest easier knowing that someone - that anyone took a few moments of time to pay their respects. Once she had finished up with a fair number of impromptu memorials, she walked up until she was a few feet away from the dungeon entrance. She felt the chilly air from inside of the dungeon spilling forth, her eyes cautiously looking for any sign of danger that might come out to greet them.

Uasal

IN ISEKAI HELL

Develius · Mar 7, 2024

Once Desmond had bought his items, as well as amounting his debt, the little raptor was finally ready to depart. He was excited, if not a bit worried. After all, this was his first time delving into a dungeon so first impressions matter. He had heard many terrible tales about various dungeons, as well as what could be lurking within them. Yet the rewards one could find we more than tempting. But every dungeon is different and rarely, if ever, are exactly the same. Whatever he'll encounter down this one will determine how he'd feel about entering further dungeons to come. Will he be willing to go back into one again after this? Perhaps he might be encouraged? Or will he vow never to step one sickle-clawed foot in one again?

He watched as Nebula activated her arcana magic to create a magic portal to their destination. The concept of portals was not new to the raptor, considering he's already enrolled in a magic school. Nor was it the first time he'd see a portal. However, this would be his first seeing someone actually form a portal personally. It was rather mesmerizing. Perhaps one day, Desmond might be able to create his own portals. It would be a far easier way to travel than walking to and fro long distances, a relief to his poor, poor legs. Of course, a more mischievous thought brushed against his conscious; already promoting schemes against Lauren. Perhaps he could push her in with a rude kick, where he'd laugh and giggle with the excuse that someone else did. Ooooh, that would be a funny way to start things off.

But just as they were going to depart, Lauren would kneel down and whisper something into Desmond's ear. And it caused his blood to run cold. Metal lady was onto him. Or, so it seemed like it. Desmond's pupils shrunk as his feathered puffed up to the feel of Lauren's hand glide against his feathers, not even daring to move or even take a breath, save for the brief uncontrollable shivering he was feeling. He had to stay quiet; strengthen his nerves! If he showed too much weakness, his entire cover would be blown wide open! That is, IF, he still decided to go along with the plan. Right? Maybe Cook can back him up if she threatened his life? That's what buddies are for, right?

Only once did Lauren stand back up did Desmond finally sputter into a coughing frenzy, catching his breath. Scary Metal Lady! He had to watch his back now. From his perspective, this was war. Or for someone more sane, perhaps it was a sign he should've actually drop his newfound feud. Desmond needed time to think, but for now it was best to keep it cool.

"WHAAAAAAAAAAAT?!" Desmond gasped theatrically, calling out to Lauren as he watched her and the others enter the portal, "W-WHY DESMOND WOULD NEVER! HOW DARE YOU THINK DESMOND WANTZ TO DO THAT! SHAME ON YOUZ!" The raptor then proceeded to follow them, barely stopping to watch the rather hypnotic swirling capture his attention, before proceeding to leap into the portal.

And no... Desmond will not want to go into the dungeon first either.

Upon exiting the portal, Desmond would be greeted to an atmosphere of dread and darkness. Darkness enveloped the land, with a thick coating of dark miasma of twisted vegetation surrounding them. This was enough to put Desmond on edge. While raptors like him were to have good low-light vision due to their large eyes, this didn't appear to be simply ordinary darkness. And as such, he couldn't see as well as he'd like. Not a very good first impression! He'll have to rely on his other senses to navigate here, like his smell [Heightened Smell F], and to keep close to his compatriots. He'd make sure to keep close to Cook's legs, quickly pulling out his light stone as he carefully searched around the nearby area.

"D-Desmond don't like this d-darkness." the poor raptor stated nervously, keeping his body low to the ground, "Place too f-funky-like."

Too focused on watching his overall surroundings, Desmond would find himself walking away from Cook's position and accidentally trip on something, dropping the stone as it rolled away a few feet away from him. The raptor panicked as he stumbled up, quickly clasping his claws around it. Yet in front of him did something lay, a human skull staring into his gaze. "REEEK!" the raptor gasped, quickly standing back onto his feet and extending the light stone to see what ailed him! Turned out that 'skull' was nothing more than an eroded stone. Desmond sighed in relief, chattering to himself to excuse his ordeal. "D-Desmond okay!" he called out with a light stammer, "Just tripped!"

But what Desmond did trip on was what looked to be a discarded blade, rusted and overgrown with the gnarled vines. The raptor lowered his head cautiously, sniffing the sword for any signs of abnormality. Though as he looked around nearby, he'd identify more loose items; more loose weapons, shattered artifacts and tattered books. They were certainly not the first to step here. The marks in the ground also told of a foreboding incident... as if the fallen were dragged by whatever predators lurked in the darkness. A shiver crawled up Desmond's back, but so intrigued was he by the marks that he decided to follow one of them.

That trail would lead him to the entrance of the dungeon itself, where it would appear to stop just before the archway entrance by where Lauren and Cook were glancing in. There he'd feel a cold damp breeze brushed towards him, with the saline mist coating his mouth of salt. Even with his coat of feathered and his cloak keeping him mostly insulated, would the raptor feel the brush of cold permeate his skin. It gave him chills. And as he glared into the abyss that lain before him, he could've sworn he heard the faint sound of distance screams whispering in his ears.

"D-Desmond don't like this mood..." he stated lowly as he attempted to see [Perception F] what laid before them. He then proceeds to whip out his guitar, with one claw nervously strumming a string at a slow but shaky pace, "Maybe s-song can help lighten it?"

Maxxob · Mar 7, 2024

Cook

Uasal

Cook looked a bit in a trance for a moment, peering into the entrance with intensity. His right hand tightened more and more around the hilt of the chief’s knife, up to the point of turning his knuckles white. The same could be said about his left hand, which was inside his pocket. The human could feel Desmond’s feathers brushing against his gray pants as the saurial kept himself close to the human. It was hearing the raptor’s voice next that snapped out Cook from his trance. "That darkness, it ain't exactly welcomin', but reckon we'll find our way through it somehow. Gotta hold on to that hope, ya know?" He offered, looking at Desmond with a small smile. However, those with at least [Insight F] would notice that the human had little confidence in what he had just said. The human’s gaze went back towards the entrance, his attention only shifting once more to the sound of someone, or something, tumbling near him. The middle-aged man turned in a heartbeat, his reflexes being abnormal for his age [Fast F], his knife at the ready. When he saw that it was the raptor who had tripped over something and said to be alright, he let out a nervous sigh, relaxing once more.

That is when Lauren’s voice reached Cook’s ears. Looking at what she was doing, he nodded, once more placing the sharp object on his belt and helping her to move the belongings of the fallen souls and creating a pile. It became clear why she was doing it, his half-century experience hinting at it. Taking a step back, he gazed at the pile silently for a few moments, before murmuring. “Life, it's like a fragile leaf in the wind. One moment here, the next gone quicker 'n a firefly's flicker. Just a whisper in the breeze, then darkness.” His expression was unreadable. Walking back to the entrance, he began to gaze once more, as if trying to peer through the mist. And, as the saurial offered to play a song, the knife was drawn from Cook’s belt. "Well, reckon if there's somethin' lurkin' just beyond this entrance, your strummin' might just coax it on out. Might be better to square off with whatever's waitin' right here at the entrance 'stead of gettin' caught in the belly of the beast." The human’s mind hinted at a use for the song much different than what the raptor had originally planned on.

Uasal · Mar 8, 2024

~Nebula~
(Mundane Monster)

Nebula observed the unfolding scene with a degree of detached pragmatism. The raptor, Desmond, seemed agitated by the darkness and the eerie atmosphere surrounding the dungeon entrance. As he fumbled with his light stone, tripping over what appeared to be discarded items from previous adventurers, Nebula couldn't help but find the whole situation rather idiotic.

"Attempting to lure the creatures out from within the dungeon," she thought, her stoic expression unyielding. In her mind, the concept seemed flawed. If the monsters within the dungeon had the ability to roam freely outside its confines, the nearby town would likely have already faced catastrophic consequences. The very essence of dungeons, according to her understanding, was to confine and contain the formidable creatures within, preventing them from wreaking havoc in the external world.

Nebula approached the entrance, her gaze fixated on the archway that led into the foreboding darkness. She briefly glanced at the raptor's attempts to play a song to lighten the mood, finding the notion somewhat absurd in the face of the looming unknown. The arcane forces at play, the twisted vegetation, and the apparent struggle left their marks, and Nebula remained focused on the task at hand – exploring the depths of the dungeon.

She spoke, her voice devoid of the warmth one might associate with camaraderie. "It is not advisable to linger here. The creatures within are confined, they will not come to us. Coincidentally our objective lies within the dungeon's heart, not at its threshold. We proceed cautiously and without unnecessary provocations." Nebula's red eyes scanned the surroundings, her posture unyielding as she awaited the decision to delve into the dungeon's abyss.

That being said one issue weighed on her mind, would entering this dungeon also trap her within?

gmimperfecti · Mar 9, 2024

II-CinderRadcliff-II said:
she then quietly gathered the remnants of each adventurers belongings and organized them into a growing pile. Using what little information she had and some mud from the ground, she wrote names upon certain items for future search parties to find and bring back to Shadowfen. This was all she could do for the fallen adventurers. While it was far from a proper funeral, at least their souls could rest easier knowing that someone - that anyone took a few moments of time to pay their respects. Once she had finished up with a fair number of impromptu memorials, she walked up until she was a few feet away from the dungeon entrance.

Maxxob said:
That is when Lauren’s voice reached Cook’s ears. Looking at what she was doing, he nodded, once more placing the sharp object on his belt and helping her to move the belongings of the fallen souls and creating a pile. It became clear why she was doing it, his half-century experience hinting at it. Taking a step back, he gazed at the pile silently for a few moments, before murmuring. “Life, it's like a fragile leaf in the wind. One moment here, the next gone quicker 'n a firefly's flicker. Just a whisper in the breeze, then darkness.” His expression was unreadable.

As Lauren and Cook worked on the memorial they noticed several pages referencing the Owlbear as a spiritual guardian of special [Domains] existing both in the physical world as well as spiritual realms that comprised a [Domain]. From several of the random pages it seemed like one of them was an adjunct professor from the Azuran Acedemy up that ways.

They also stumble upon a few bits of loot that they could have salvaged worth possibly an F-grade Debt. There was a nice signet ring from the debris of what could have been a knight. Another pile had a Weaping Willow Staff that was probably a Catalyst F. Another coal black cloak likely served as light armor F for a rogue.

Still they didn't let greed take hold and the memorials were built. It was curious to see after all that cataloguing five mounds of what remained. There were a few miscallaneous piles but those looked like an older accumulation. Like reading the rings on a tree they could tell this most recent party of five had likely met with something that could exit the dungeon and haul the majority of thier corpses and gear back in. According to rumors the dungeon had only been exposed for about a coupe of months give or take. So the five fresh mounds could be one total party kill or the result of attrition from several.

Still when it was all done there was a sense of peace that settled over the area.

Develius said:
But what Desmond did trip on was what looked to be a discarded blade, rusted and overgrown with the gnarled vines. The raptor lowered his head cautiously, sniffing the sword for any signs of abnormality. Though as he looked around nearby, he'd identify more loose items; more loose weapons, shattered artifacts and tattered books. They were certainly not the first to step here. The marks in the ground also told of a foreboding incident... as if the fallen were dragged by whatever predators lurked in the darkness. A shiver crawled up Desmond's back, but so intrigued was he by the marks that he decided to follow one of them.

Despite the salt, Desmond was able to use his noise to isolate the saline smell and explore other scents. He definitely smelled Owlbear, but it was hard to make out more details. Fresh human blood came through with it's typical iron aroma. Oddly he didn't smell anything other animals having been in the area recently. Not even a predator marking it's territory... But that's when Desmond found the territorial markings of the Owlbear. He learned that the urine of the Owlbear smelled strongly of salt and fresh cut grass. Also several large mounds, the older ones that looked desiccated were actually something akin to owl pellets. These were spread out further than what the human and elf cyborg had discovered creating thier memorial mounds. He did find a nice glittery gem necklace in one of the pellets that the Owlbear apparently couldn't digest. These pellets were placed all around the clearing.

gmimperfecti · Mar 9, 2024

The transition from the frigid, saline mist of the dungeon's entrance to the interior was marked by a sudden shift in atmosphere. As the adventurers stepped forward, the cold, salty air that had enveloped them began to retreat, sucked away by a series of hidden vents emitting a low, mechanical hum, reminiscent of an ancient, arcane vacuum designed to preserve the sanctity of the space within.

In the half-light, where mechanical fixtures sputtered in harmony with the soft glow of fae fires, the Antechamber of Echoes began to reveal its secrets. The room, vast and imposing, bore the weight of history in its stone arches and the remnants of opulent decoration, now marred by the passage of time and the scars of battle.

Amidst this blend of the ancient and the arcane stood Vigil, a golem of intricate design, its form a testament to the blending of magic and machinery. With each flickering light, its metallic surface caught the glow, casting eerie shadows across the floor.

Vigil's sensors activated with a stuttering flicker. His voice, once clear and authoritative, now emerged as a fragmented echo of its former self. "Welcome, seekers... access Title... containment... please, don't go...re…re..booting…" His speech was a patchwork of his original directives and the ramblings of a construct driven to the brink of insanity by solitude.

His body shuddered, there was the sound of multiple clicks and pops, rusty grating and then the lights dimmed and went out. A second later the golem shuddered as a thrum of power coursed back through its body as it appeared to reboot.

"Greetings, travelers of the mundane realm," it intoned, its voice more coherent, a curious mix of warmth and mechanical whirr. "I am Vigil, guardian and steward of this threshold. Your Titles, if you please, for entry beyond this point is not granted lightly."

Vigil's demeanor, though welcoming, carried an undercurrent of loneliness, a guardian left too long in silence, its purpose dimmed by the absence of those it was meant to serve. Its movements, once fluid, now betrayed a hint of rust, of gears not turning as smoothly as they once had. "It has been... many cycles since last we had visitors," it continued, a flicker of something akin to hope in its mechanical gaze. "Many seek, some find, fewer still return."

As the lights struggled between the mechanical and the magical, casting an otherworldly ambiance over the room, the adventurers could not help but notice signs of recent passage — or perhaps, more accurately, of struggle. Scattered across the stone floor, near the entrance to the next chamber, were items that spoke of whatever happened outside continuing in this chamber. A blade, whole and covered with blood lay behind Vigil. More gear, a discarded pack, torn and leaking pots and food. Something glittered from within it’s contents. And there, just beyond where the shadows gathered more thickly, a pool of blood and a boot with part of a leg sticking out of it.

These didn’t seem to be Vigil's doing; the guardian looked to be part of the floor in the center of the room and made no move to harm or hinder, but rather observed with an air of detached curiosity, as if trying to recall a protocol long forgotten. "Beware," it said, almost as an afterthought, "The facility has grown... capricious in my solitude. Protocols further within may not recognize the nuance of your... hospitality."

Maxxob · Mar 11, 2024

Cook

Uasal

When Cook entered the first chamber of the dungeon, his eyes were already darting all around, taking in the faded architecture of the place. Time certainly wasn’t kind towards anything, living beings or not. After the first steps, he saw some sort of creature, a few steps ahead and to his right, coming to life, its imposing visage already tripping all sorts of alarms into the human’s head. With narrowing eyes, the knife on his hand was tightened further, his stance shifting, subtly, from his almost usual goofy disposition to a predatory one. However, the first words that came from the creature made Cook hesitate, his mind, for now, not even registering the shock of seeing something so uncanny and only focused on the danger they might or not pose.

And, despite the construct’s second attempt at communication being more welcoming and warm, the middle-aged human didn’t relax. His wizened eyes darted to the entrance of one of the other rooms, squinting to make heads or tails of the contents that lay beyond, on the floor. The discarded pots caught his attention, slightly, thinking that there might be some use for them. However, what really caught his attention was the pool of blood and the severed leg, his mind reeling with implications as his gaze was once more locked onto Vigil’s inorganic visage. Hazel eyes darted around his form, trying to pick any signs of splattered crimson, viscous liquid. Not finding any, his stance relaxed a few notches, but still not going back to his usual self. Only then, he finally addressed the creature, wariness being palpable in his voice.

“My handle’s Cook. Titles, huh? Them weird classifications we got?” The foreign human had a rough idea on how those worked, as he had used [Appraisal F] a few times on things and people, who eyed him strangely as he did so. Pulling back from the depths of his memory, what he had seen when he used the skill while looking at himself in a mirror. "I reckon those would be somethin' like [Isekai], [Human], [Apprentice Knivesman], [Imperfect Debt F], and [Imperfect Debt E]. But tell me, would they get me through, uh...Vigil, was it?" Giving the creature his Titles, he wondered if those fell into the classification who would allow him through and, if they didn’t, what would be his next course of action. “What 'bout them bones over yonder? Seem like they got themselves in a rush, too antsy to wait 'round for ya or somethin'?” Cook asked next, pointing at the remains with the index of his left hand, wondering if the guardian knew the tale of what might have happened to them, darting to them before focusing on the golem once more.

Develius · Mar 11, 2024

Following the tracks, Desmond continued pressing his snout against the ground, trying to pick up anything that wasn't just salt smothering his nostrils. [Heightened Sense: Smell F] There had to be some other kind of lead as to what happened here. And after some sniffing around, the raptor picked up something... familiar. They smelled like the owlbear ribs back at the inn, only much more potent. Vague... but potent. But intermixed with it was yet another smell. An iron-y smell he recognized. No doubt it was the unmistakable scent of human blood. And it was fresh. The raptor had to make sure to cancel out the fresh smell, focusing on the unknown. Those were the only two scents he could pick up... but strangely nothing else stood out. With a few more deep inhales, Desmond could finally make out what it was. His feathers perked up cautiously, knowing that it had to be the scent of an owlbear.

A living one.

And a few steps more, the curious raptor would finally come upon the source of the scent. It came from the base of a tree. His head lowered to investigate, before retracting back in a disgusted manner. An overwhelmingly strong smell of salt and freshly cut grass bombarded his senses. "Blrreeegh!" he wretched, shaking his head to rid of the horrid stench, "Horrid smell!". He quickly realized he must've smelled owlbear pee, given its acidic undertones. In this context, the creature must've considered this portion of the forest as its territory. And the blood... well, that was just it defending its territory from intruders. And the poor sods that encountered it must've suffered a terrible fate, or managed to escape but not unscathed.

As Desmond stepped back to get some fresh air, he found himself accidentally stepping on something... squishy. He reeled back with a gasp, turning around to see a large mound behind him. He wasn't sure what it was at first, but upon further inspection he'd come across pieces of bone stuck within it. Was this poop? Oh god, he didn't step in owlbear poop did he? But it didn't smell like poop. In fact, it didn't have much of a smell to it at all. And it wasn't the only one. Desmond could see several other mounds spread out across the territory, though they looked older and more desecrated. That's when it hit him. These weren't feces, but pellets! The undigested material owls cough up. Still pretty gross, but better than stepping in poop. He wouldn't be able to rid himself of that stench off his feet for days!

The raptor proceeded to investigate the other pellets, curious as to what the owlbear had been eating. As he did, he'd discover one pellet containing something shiny. Oooh! How could he not resist digging it up? Desmond used his sickled toe-claw to dig through the pellet, quickly uncovering the culprit. Wrapped around his claw, was a nice glittery gem necklace. His eyes grew wide as he stared at it excitedly."Oooooh, prettyz!" he thought to himself. It resembled the gold-beaded one that he had on him right now, currently tucked beneath his robe to prevent thievery. He wouldn't want to repeat the ratkin incident again*. The raptor's eyes shifted back cautiously, making sure the others didn't see what he found, before putting it in his bag with a pleased chuckle. Finders keepers!

He then proceeded meet back up with the others at the dungeon entrance...

Cook and Nebula's responses to his song request weren't quite what he was expecting. They were greeted with an exasperated glance from Desmond, looking at them as if they were utterly nuts. "Are youz serious?!" he hissed in a whispered tone towards the two, "Desmond is not THAT coo-coo-like to do that!" He wasn't thinking of strategy to lure whatever was in there, no way! He just wanted to lighten the mood with his totally good and awesome singing skills. After all, it ought to get lonely and spooky down in a dark, dank dungeon, so it's good for morale. Guess they didn't share his view...

Desmond waited for someone to go first before stepping inside... in this case being Cook. He followed close behind, holding onto his light stone, as his eyes dart from wall to wall. This place felt very old, ancient even. It had been rundown through the ages, no doubt having seen many battles take place within its walls. Despite its desolate atmosphere, the raptor's senses were on high-alert. Though as they would find out, it wasn't completely desolate of life. Dim lighting lit the hallways enough for them to get around, which typically meant that something still stirred within. Friend or foe, nobody knew. Most evidently, however, there was a large golem in the middle of the room; its large metallic body standing watch in stalwart silence. The raptor's eyes squinted at it cautiously; it didn't trust. It almost felt like it could turn on at any-

The construct stuttered to life, causing Desmond to assume a defensive stance. Instinctually, the raptor lowered his body, hissing as he raised his feathery arms out and his tail upwards to make himself look ~~slightly~~ bigger. Thankfully, however, it didn't appear to be aggressive. It sputtered and spattered for a moment, its rusted mechanical interior creaking to operating power, before it properly rebooted to a functional state where it spoke. The raptor's guard lowered slightly, now looking up at the tall golem - who referred himself as Vigil - with inquisitive curiosity. After Cook announced his name and titles, Desmond puffed his chest out.

"Greetings Vigil! Desmond is the Great and Mighty Desmond!" he announced boldly, puffing himself up on his own 'bravado' with a bow, "Desmond is proudest Deinonychian [Saurial [Deinonychian]] beastfolk [Beast] in all of World! Desmond's songs bring joy and happiness wherever he goes, yez yez!" He would be sure to leave out, or forget, any of his more... negative aspects, but at the very least his name and race should hopefully satisfy the guardian enough.

He was just a little guy, after all.

The raptor proceeded to scout out the room more in depth, seeing if there's anything else worth investigating. Eventually Cook pointed out the remains of a traveler near one of the chamber entrances, wondering what happened to them. He immediately ran over to investigate, sniffing at the remains to see how fresh it was. The pool of blood within the boot was a grizzly sign, but important. It indeed smelled fresher then he expected, but just how fresh would determine what they may find down there [Heightened Smell F]. The food leaking out of the pots could still be edible, if they hadn't long expired already.

But as he investigated the crumpled backpack full of gear, he noticed something glittering within it. "Oooh?" he chirped curiously, "What haz we here?". Using his claws, Desmond rummaged through the gear in an attempt to get to the shiny.

ITEMS:

Antidote Vial F (x1) - Simple yet effective, these vials can neutralize common poisons. Handy in a pinch and easy to use.
Basic Light Stone F (x1) - Emit a soft glow upon activation, illuminating dark areas without attracting unwanted attention.
Crystal Vial Containing a Breath of Wind E (x1) - Unleashes a gust strong enough to clear paths or solve wind-based puzzles. Its uses are as varied as the imagination of its wielder.

TITLES:

Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt F (x2)
Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt E

*[See "Underground Journey with Ratkin"].

II-CinderRadcliff-II · Mar 14, 2024

TRAVERSING SOMEWHERE

As Lauren listened to what Cook and Desmond were talking about she found herself agreeing with the raptor, however reluctant she was to do so. One of the things they lacked most of all currently was information about what awaited them further inside, and with their lives on the line any information could serve as a crucial lifeline if utilized correctly. They needed the extra precaution for the moment until they had more information to work with.
"I'll have to concur with our feathered companion on that. We lack crucial information about the dungeon currently, especially considering how recently it was uncovered and how few adventurers have survived with their sanity intact. It's too much of a risk." Lauren commented as the group began making their way into the dungeon, the frigid salty air right at the entrance gradually fading away as the familiar mechanical hums of vent fans seemed to purify the air as they entered. With a glance to what was above their heads the sight of mechanical fixtures suggested that the monsters ahead may be more artificial than natural, keeping that thought in the back of her mind as she continued talking to Cook. "Information will be key to us if we wish to properly explore the dungeon without losing life or limb... Unfortunately, I've already lost three..." Lauren paused as she quietly pondered over the new life given to her, continuing on with a more sorrowful tone and expression. "I don't like talking about how it happened, but after it happened I recall the memory of feeling completely shattered- fragments of my former self writhing in pain and agony for what felt like hundreds of years... It's a feeling that I would not wish for anyone else to experience first hand..."

As Lauren entered the first room of the dungeon with the group she was quick to spot the golem, immediately eyeing it over multiple times over with a sense of wonder and curiosity glistening in her eyes. The intricate design alone was aesthetically pleasing, and the convoluted combination of machinery and magic had her practically hovering around like - akin to a hummingbird hovering around a delicate flower full of nectar. It was only when the golem started coming to life that she backed away for her own safety, assuming a defensive stance in preparation for a fight... A fight that never came, much to her relief as the golem tried to speak. It was apparent that time had taken its toll on the golem as it needed to reboot before it could speak coherently, though upon it asking for their Titles she pondered a bit. She was aware of how Titles worked vaguely, though without the skill to Appraise herself she'd have to rely on others to correct her if she was wrong. However, she did have a good of what Titles she already possesses.
"Greetings Vigil, nice to make your acquaintance. I've been called an [Abomination], [Construct], and [Fae] in the past few weeks, and while it's not completely inaccurate this body of mine was born and raised as an [Elf]. I guess there's also [Imperfect Debt x3], though I don't believe I have any other Titles currently." Lauren introduced herself with full transparency, adding a hint of uncertainty towards the end of her statement incase she was wrong about what Titles she truly did possess. Her attention turned to the corridors leading to the rest of the dungeon, and the sight of a severed leg still in its owners boot unnerved her a bit. It was a more welcome sight than the monstrosities he made, but it still didn't bode well for what resided deeper within the depths. It was when Desmond rushed towards the bag with something glittering inside that Lauren then slowly approached the gear left behind, picking up the sword and sheath it came with. While she wasn't well versed with swordsmanship, it was better than fighting with her fists and legs - and it could also serve as a good conductive material to better electrocute opponents using her limited magic. "By the way, Vigil. What will await us further inside? if you would be so kind as to enlighten us, it would be very greatly appreciated." Lauren inquired as she fastened the sheath around her waist and slid the sword inside, curious as to whether or not the golem had any valuable insight they could use.

Uasal

IN ISEKAI HELL

Uasal · Mar 16, 2024

~Nebula~
(Mundane Monster)

As the other adventurers offered up their titles to Vigil, Nebula remained silent, her mind calculating the potential consequences of revealing her true nature. The thought of her monster title being exposed sent a shiver down her spine, and she knew that the only path forward was the destruction of this stone guardian.

With a subtle movement beneath her cloak, Nebula summoned her powers, manipulating the fabric of space around her target, her eyes a subtle red glow. "I bear the title of [Challenger]. Now perish, Impact" With a flick of her finger, she unleashed a devastating attack, targeting the core of Vigil with precision. The air around the construct crackled with energy as the space distorted and rippled, creating a mesmerizing yet horrifying display that many unused to spacial manipulation would find mind boggling.

The impact struck Vigil like a meteor, sending shockwaves reverberating through the chamber and creating a crater where he once stood. Dust from which quickly filled the chamber.

With an unperturbed expression and her eyes red glow dimming, Nebula stood behind the three traveler's she had accompanied. Her gaze remained steeled on the construct, ready to react to any retaliation it might carry out. Had she taken the stone being down? Once the dust settled, everyone would know.

Actions:2/3

Impact - Magic D, Domain (Spacial Fabric Manipulation) E, Gravity Affinity, Magical Range E, Magical AOE E, Energised E, Selective (Vigil), Quake E, Vorpal E, Accurate E, Penetrating E, Sixth sense -Weak point Vision, Hotshot, - Nebula forcefully impacts the fabric of space that her target area rests upon with her mana. Simulating a meteoric impact as the fabric buckles, twists, and turns. - D Grade - 2 post cooldown. 1 Action
Dodge - Magic E, Domain (Spacial Fabric Manipulation) F, Teleport F, Energised E - Nebula manipulates the fabric of space to instantaneously dodge incoming attacks through teleportation - E Grade - 0 post cooldown. 1 Action (Activates on incoming attack)

Maxxob · Mar 16, 2024

Cook

Uasal

~A few moments earlier~

Cook listened attentively to the crimson-eyed pale girl, Desmond and Lauren about the whole idea of using the raptor’s happy singing to attract whatever wonderful food-stuff which could be waiting for them beyond the entrance. He raised one eyebrow, his age-acquired stubbornness still hinted that it would have been the best course of action, but he didn’t comment on it further. Furthermore, Lauren’s comment about information being crucial did end up cracking his stubborn mind slightly. The middle-aged man had to remind himself that he was, after all, new to that world and he would do well to take in consideration what the others might say.

In addition, when Lauren commented further about her own experiences and what the lack of information could bring about upon the group, his expression relaxed, empathy present on his wizened hazel eyes as they met hers. His orbs then focused on his own right arm, which tightly held his Chef’s Knife, not even being able to imagine how losing it, or even his hand, would affect him. After a moment of contemplation, his gaze shifted back to her. "I can't rightly fathom what it'd be like losin' even one limb, let alone three. But I've heard tales 'bout how it can change a soul. Reckon I'm mighty glad that ain't seemin' to be your situation." The human offered, in earnest, not wishing to pry further into her past.

~

Battle in the Warrens - Darkest Dungeon

Cook still had a hint of wariness in his gaze as he gazed at the inorganic guardian, catching Desmond sniffing the remains he had pointed at further yonder, apparently searching for something. If the situation were any different, the human would have chuckled as he saw how the raptor was behaving slightly like a dog. However, the situation escalated to its maximum in a blink of an eye, as Nebula simply attacked the guardian out of nowhere. The human’s eyes widened as he saw the space around Vigil, which was right in front of him, crackled and distorted, attacking towards the creature with a strong impact. With the crater which was formed almost sucking Cook into it, he exclaimed as his free hand covered his eyes for debris and dust. “What in tarnation, girl?! Things are goin’ to hell in a handbasket, really fast!”

However, despite his words, a grin began to creep on his lips. The skin on his face stretched slightly, almost like leather. With his expression betraying him, as soon as he could see even a silhouette of Vigil, he began to act. After all, a group could only be as passive as their most aggressive member allowed them to. With a quick movement, the Chef’s Knife on his hand was dancing towards the towering guardian, the killing intent of the attack being palpable. After the wide slash and stab, would straighten his slightly hunched back. The grin was still present on his lips, but now was accompanied with narrowing eyes. His right hand, which held the knife, now had its palm pointed upwards and his wrist kept doing circular movements, taunting Vigil to attack him. "Now, I ain't one to relish in violence, but sometimes, well, things just gotta get done." Cook’s tone hinted at the exact opposite of his words, sarcasm dripping from it.

Actions:

1 - Five Star Chef - Weapon Mastery [Knife] F, Area [5ft] F, Selective [Vigil], Blight [Bleed] F, Penetrating F, Accurate F, Incurable F, Continuing [Poison] F, Contagion F, Energized F - Grade F Cooldown 0 - With a quick swipe of his knife, Cook attacks a 5ft area around him, accurately homing into his targets. The deep stab makes the target bleed, as well as poison them, spreading the effects to whatever other target that comes into contact with them. 1 Action
2/3 - Cook’s surprise - Weapon Mastery [Knife] F, Reflect F, Blight [Bleed], Continuing [Bleed], Hot Shot F, Accurate F, Selective [Vigil] F, Penetrating F, Energized F, Incurable F - Grade F Cooldown 0 [2 Actions] - Assuming a relaxed stance, Cook waits for the target’s attack, before surprising them with his attack. While observing their attack, he tries to gauge the best place to attack to disarm them with his counter-assault. 2 actions

Base Effectiveness:
Strength E (2) + Chef’s Knife (1) + Weapon Mastery F (1) = 4
Five Star Chef added damage = Blight [Bleed] +1, Continuing [Poison] +1, total 6
Cook’s surprise = Blight [Bleed] +1, Continuing [Poison] +1, total 6 with possibility of Hot Shot bringing to 12
Both abilities possess Penetrating F (-1 to items used to defend/counter), Accurate F (-1 to Speed)

gmimperfecti · Mar 19, 2024

Maxxob said:
“My handle’s Cook. Titles, huh? Them weird classifications we got?” The foreign human had a rough idea on how those worked, as he had used [Appraisal F] a few times on things and people, who eyed him strangely as he did so. Pulling back from the depths of his memory, what he had seen when he used the skill while looking at himself in a mirror. "I reckon those would be somethin' like [Isekai], [Human], [Apprentice Knivesman], [Imperfect Debt F], and [Imperfect Debt E]. But tell me, would they get me through, uh...Vigil, was it?" Giving the creature his Titles, he wondered if those fell into the classification who would allow him through and, if they didn’t, what would be his next course of action. “What 'bout them bones over yonder? Seem like they got themselves in a rush, too antsy to wait 'round for ya or somethin'?” Cook asked next, pointing at the remains with the index of his left hand, wondering if the guardian knew the tale of what might have happened to them, darting to them before focusing on the golem once more.

Vigil's visual sensors flickered with interest as he processed Cook's array of Titles. "Acknowledgment: [Isekai], [Human], [Apprentice Knivesman], [Imperfect Debt F], [Imperfect Debt E]. Access granted, Contractor Cook. Your Titles bespeak journeys and debts, both known to this facility. [Imperfect Debts] suggest engagements pending within our protocols."

As Cook inquired about the gruesome scene laid out before them, Vigil's head tilted slightly, an almost imperceptible whirr emanating from within as if gears were shifting to align with a difficult memory. "Observation: The remnants you indicate are recent. Unfortunate outcomes for those unprepared for the facility's... temperament. My protocols are preservation and guidance, not enforcement. The disturbance originated beyond my chamber. Caution advised: The facility has evolved in unpredictability. Entities within may not distinguish between guest and intruder."

The lights flickered again, a dimness briefly overtaking the chamber before the fae fires and mechanical lights stabilized. "Clarification," Vigil added, his voice a blend of melancholy and mechanical detachment, "My existence is to facilitate research and safeguard protocols. The past cycles have... altered some functions. Interaction is a rare variable. Your presence, an anomaly worth noting in logs long dormant."

Vigil paused, a soft hum emanating from his core as if pondering the extent of what he could share. "Advice: Vigilance is paramount. The facility's defenses adapt and respond to perceived threats. Your Titles afford you a measure of passage but do not guarantee safe conduct through all corridors."

As Cook absorbed Vigil's words, the guardian's gaze seemed to linger on the discarded items and the dark stain leading away from them. "The facility does not willingly relinquish those it claims. The path you seek is layered with challenges both ancient and newly birthed. Prepare, Contractor Cook. The Antechamber of Echoes is but the threshold to deeper enigmas."

In the dim light, cast by the uneasy alliance of mechanical and fae luminance supported by Desmond's [Basic Light Stones, F], the aftermath of a desperate struggle lay strewn across the stone floor of the Antechamber of Echoes. Near a dark, dried puddle of blood, the scene was particularly morose: a lone boot, grimly still occupied by its original owner's leg, a testament to the swift brutality that had claimed its wearer. Beside it lay a sword, its sheath blood soaked and tarnished, reflecting a life of conflict, now abandoned in its final duty.

But it was the blood-splattered backpack, lying forlornly nearby, that held the remnants of hope and purpose once carried by the fallen adventurer. Carefully, as if respecting the sanctity of the departed, the backpack's contents were revealed, each item a piece of the puzzle that had driven its owner into the depths of "Elysium's Veil."

Among the mundane supplies — a filled waterskin filled with a liquid that smelled of cinnamon and spice; a coil of rope; a kit of field rations with pepper and sage — lay two items of note. The first, a delicate shiny vial filled with a swirling, luminescent liquid that seemed to dance with its own inner light.

The second item, more telling in its simplicity, was a tattered journal, its pages filled with hastily scribbled notes and observations. Quick scan did make it apparent this was the travel log and report designed for the Azuran Scouting Party lead by Mira's Husband. Only the earliest pages were readable. This included a more extensive map found at end of the post. The blood had soaked and ruins the ink on most of the latter pages. Tucked within the journal was a makeshift bookmark, a piece of parchment with a single, cryptic message: "Trust not the eyes that see, but the heart that feels. In darkness, find the light; in silence, the song."

In Vigil's chamber, our spirits were unexpectedly lifted. We had anticipated conflict but were met with conversation, a rare commodity in these forsaken depths. The presence of Artek, our Construct Golem companion, seemed to bridge a gap with Vigil, who regarded us not as intruders but potential contributors to the sanctum's ongoing saga. It was a peculiar interaction, to say the least, revealing the chamber's hidden threats only to guide us through them. Mechanical vines that ensnare with a touch, paths that led nowhere but to peril, and shadows filled with deceitful whispers; all were disclosed by Vigil, who seemed more a lonely sentinel than a guardian.

Our passage through Vigil's domain was marked by an unexpected honor – the title of "Independent Contractor, F." This recognition was bestowed upon us after Vigil's "Title Review," a testament to our willingness to engage with the sanctum's demands. In exchange for aiding in the containment of rampant experiments and the repair of dilapidated mechanisms, Vigil offered goods produced within the confines of his domain. It was an arrangement born of necessity, a symbiosis in the heart of desolation.

Our curiosity piqued by the strange drainage from the grates on the North wall, we could but speculate on its purpose before venturing towards the dungeon's core, drawn by the allure of the largest chamber mapped in our minds.

The Hall of Echoes tested us in ways unforeseen. Every step, every word became a cacophony, warping our senses and straining our cohesion. Here, we encountered the Dream Wraiths, manifestations of sorrow and addiction, bound to defend the secrets they unwillingly keep. Each encounter with these pitiful beings left behind a residue of essence, a tangible sorrow that hinted at their tormented existence.

Our venture deepened, propelled by the need to understand, to uncover the truth behind "Elysium's Veil" and its legacy of despair. Yet, the hall, with its myriad doors, promised not just answers but further mysteries, each path a choice between enlightenment and oblivion.

Mira's husband's account, preserved within the pages of his journal, serves not just as a chronicle of their expedition but as a guide, a warning, and a plea. It reveals a dungeon alive with memory and malice, a place where the past lingers like a shadow, and every discovery brings both light and darkness.

[Mira's Husband Journal]. This is a [Quest Item]. Useful for giving Mira peace of mind and/or rewards from appropriate Azuran officials in The City of Azuran. While most of it is ruined, no doubt higher level magics or skills could reverse the damage.
[Gear, F: A kit of field rations with pepper and sage]. This gear is sufficient to handle situations related to Hunger F while in the dungeon.
[Item, F: Waters of Spice, an intoxicant]. A filled water skin filled with a liquid that smelled of cinnamon and spice that if drunk has an exhilarating, intoxicating affect on it.

Develius said:
The raptor proceeded to scout out the room more in depth, seeing if there's anything else worth investigating. Eventually Cook pointed out the remains of a traveler near one of the chamber entrances, wondering what happened to them. He immediately ran over to investigate, sniffing at the remains to see how fresh it was. The pool of blood within the boot was a grizzly sign, but important. It indeed smelled fresher then he expected, but just how fresh would determine what they may find down there [Heightened Smell F]. The food leaking out of the pots could still be edible, if they hadn't long expired already.

But as he investigated the crumpled backpack full of gear, he noticed something glittering within it. "Oooh?" he chirped curiously, "What haz we here?". Using his claws, Desmond rummaged through the gear in an attempt to get to the shiny.

[Dreamshade Elixir, E-Grade]. The delicate shiny vial filled with a swirling, luminescent liquid that seemed to dance with its own inner light. This was no ordinary potion; it was [Dreamshade Elixir], a rare and potent substance rumored to grant visions of otherworldly clarity, but at a steep price to the unwary.

Develius said:
"Greetings Vigil! Desmond is the Great and Mighty Desmond!" he announced boldly, puffing himself up on his own 'bravado' with a bow, "Desmond is proudest Deinonychian [Saurial [Deinonychian]] beastfolk [Beast] in all of World! Desmond's songs bring joy and happiness wherever he goes, yez yez!" He would be sure to leave out, or forget, any of his more... negative aspects, but at the very least his name and race should hopefully satisfy the guardian enough.

Vigil's sensors recalibrated, focusing on Desmond with a perceptible sense of intrigue. As the raptor introduced himself with unmatched enthusiasm, the guardian's mechanical form seemed to lean forward minutely, as if drawn by the novelty of Desmond's presentation.

"Recognition: Deinonychian [Saurial [Deinonychian]], [Beast]. Acknowledged, Mighty Desmond," Vigil's voice echoed, the mechanical undertones softening ever so slightly, "Your declaration is... unprecedented within these walls. Joy and happiness are variables not accounted for in my protocols."

A flicker of light danced across Vigil's form, casting a warmer hue over his metallic surface. "Query: Mighty Desmond, does your song alter the fabric of this facility? My databases catalog only the despair of failed experiments and the silence of abandonment."

Despite the weight of history that clung to every corner of the chamber, Vigil's interest in Desmond suggested a capacity for curiosity beyond mere protocol adherence. "Advice: Your unique composition may interact unpredictably with dormant protocols. Caution is advisable. The facility's adaptation mechanisms are... comprehensive."

As Vigil addressed Desmond, the lights in the chamber pulsed gently, illuminating the pathway forward and highlighting the scattered remnants of those who had come before. "Observation: The facility, though ancient, is receptive to new data inputs. Your presence, Mighty Desmond, constitutes such an input. Contribution to the harmony of this domain will be... noted."

The golem's gaze then shifted towards the more ominous signs of previous encounters, the remnants of struggle and fear. "Addendum: While joy and happiness are commendable, the facility harbors entities less inclined towards such sentiments. Your bravado, while admirable, may attract unwanted attention. Vigilance, Mighty Desmond, will serve you well."

II-CinderRadcliff-II said:
"Greetings Vigil, nice to make your acquaintance. I've been called an [Abomination], [Construct], and [Fae] in the past few weeks, and while it's not completely inaccurate this body of mine was born and raised as an [Elf]. I guess there's also [Imperfect Debt x3], though I don't believe I have any other Titles currently."

Vigil's sensors fixated on Desmond as he made his bold introduction, a faint whirring sound accompanying the golem's attempt to align this new information with its ancient protocols. "Acknowledgment: [Saurial], [Deinonychian], [Beast]. Designation: Desmond the Great and Mighty," it intoned, its voice carrying a mechanical echo that filled the chamber. "Noted: Contribution to morale through sonic manipulation." Vigil's head tilted slightly, mimicking a gesture of respect, albeit with the stiff precision of machinery. "Your presence adds a variable of unpredictability. The facility has been void of such... vibrancy for extensive cycles."

Then, turning its attention to Lauren, Vigil regarded her with an intensity that suggested it was scanning her deeply, perhaps recognizing the meld of magic and machinery within her. "Acknowledgment: [Abomination], [Construct], [Fae], [Elf]. Additional Notes: [Imperfect Debt x3]. Subject Lauren embodies a confluence of elements uncommon to this facility's archives." A subtle shift in Vigil's stance suggested intrigue, a rarity for the guardian. "Query: Your form suggests extensive modification. Potential applications for facility improvement noted. Query extension: Willingness to share insights on construct integration with organic systems?"

Vigil paused, processing the interactions, before addressing the group with a semblance of warmth that seemed out of place emanating from a being of gears and arcane energy. "Caution: The facility beyond harbors remnants of pursuits both grand and grotesque. Your unique compositions may attract attention, both benign and otherwise."

In the flickering light, where the shadows danced between the ethereal and the mechanical, the remnants of the unfortunate adventurers served as a grim reminder of the dungeon's dangers. Vigil's gaze drifted momentarily towards the boot, the blood, and the scattered belongings. "Advisory: Previous entrants encountered facility defenses beyond my control. Their narratives...terminated prematurely. Preparedness and caution are advised."

II-CinderRadcliff-II said:
It was when Desmond rushed towards the bag with something glittering inside that Lauren then slowly approached the gear left behind, picking up the sword and sheath it came with. While she wasn't well versed with swordsmanship, it was better than fighting with her fists and legs - and it could also serve as a good conductive material to better electrocute opponents using her limited magic. "By the way, Vigil. What will await us further inside? if you would be so kind as to enlighten us, it would be very greatly appreciated." Lauren inquired as she fastened the sheath around her waist and slid the sword inside, curious as to whether or not the golem had any valuable insight they could use.

[Magic Gleaming Sword, F-Grade] from Vigil's Room in the entrance of the dungeon. Despite the sheaths condition, this mithril blade gleams brightly in any lighting condition, amplifying the light and projecting it out to AOE Grade-E 50ft! The [Equipment Limiter, 1: Requires External Light Source] does apply. F-grade characters aren't allowed to use magical items like these unless you had Focus F skill. For you it's just a nice shiny sword made of Mithril. Exchange for an F-grade asset, gear, or debt if bartered during this thread, but there's potential to convince someone it's worth an E-grade debt or asset.

To be continued in the next post...

gmimperfecti · Mar 19, 2024

With a subtle movement beneath her cloak, Nebula summoned her powers, manipulating the fabric of space around her target, her eyes a subtle red glow. "I bear the title of [Challenger]. Now perish, Impact" With a flick of her finger, she unleashed a devastating attack, targeting the core of Vigil with precision. The air around the construct crackled with energy as the space distorted and rippled, creating a mesmerizing yet horrifying display that many unused to spacial manipulation would find mind boggling.

The impact struck Vigil like a meteor, sending shockwaves reverberating through the chamber and creating a crater where he once stood. Dust from which quickly filled the chamber.

With an unperturbed expression and her eyes red glow dimming, Nebula stood behind the three traveler's she had accompanied. Her gaze remained steeled on the construct, ready to react to any retaliation it might carry out. Had she taken the stone being down? Once the dust settled, everyone would know.

However, despite his words, a grin began to creep on his lips. The skin on his face stretched slightly, almost like leather. With his expression betraying him, as soon as he could see even a silhouette of Vigil, he began to act. After all, a group could only be as passive as their most aggressive member allowed them to. With a quick movement, the Chef’s Knife on his hand was dancing towards the towering guardian, the killing intent of the attack being palpable. After the wide slash and stab, would straighten his slightly hunched back. The grin was still present on his lips, but now was accompanied with narrowing eyes. His right hand, which held the knife, now had its palm pointed upwards and his wrist kept doing circular movements, taunting Vigil to attack him. "Now, I ain't one to relish in violence, but sometimes, well, things just gotta get done." Cook’s tone hinted at the exact opposite of his words, sarcasm dripping from it.

As Nebula unleashed her devastating attack on Vigil, Cook couldn't help but join the fray, a grin spreading across his face despite the sudden escalation. The chef's knife, an extension of his own will, danced with deadly precision towards the towering golem. His movements, a blend of culinary finesse and lethal intent, aimed to support Nebula's spatial assault with his own brand of violence.

The impact of Nebula's attack resonated through the chamber, the very air crackling with the force of her spell. The golem, Vigil, once a steadfast guardian of this threshold, found itself the focal point of an onslaught it was never designed to withstand. Nebula's manipulation of space and Cook's culinary weaponry converged on the construct, tearing through its defenses with a force that echoed the chaotic origins of the dungeon itself.

In the wake of their bold assault, the adventurers stood amidst the ruins of their confrontation, the dense air heavy with the aftermath of their clash against Vigil. The spatial distortions, a tempest of warped reality that had briefly engulfed the chamber, now receded, leaving the fabric of the world to settle back into its accustomed form. Yet, the world that reasserted itself bore the scars of their actions; the entrance, once a beckoning threshold into the depths of mystery, now stood sealed, an unyielding barrier forged by the golem's final act.

The sudden silence that followed was deceptive, a brief calm before the storm of the dungeon's ancient defenses sprung to life. Mechanical vines, their dormant state belied by their decorative guise, unfurled with lethal grace, slithering from their concealments in the walls and ceiling. They twisted and writhed, seeking the warmth of living prey. From beneath, a cold mist, as bitter as the northern seas and laden with the taste of salt, seeped through the floor's crevices, clouding sight and numbing flesh.

In the shadowed aftermath of the conflict, an eerie quiet descended upon the chamber, a prelude to the unfolding chaos. Amidst the unsettling stillness, a cacophony of voices began to seep through the ancient stone, originating from beyond the northern wall. Their cries, a blend of agony and enticement, permeated the air, weaving a tapestry of temptation and despair.

"Free us... release the chains of our torment," whispered voices from the hidden infernal nursery, their tones dripping with false sweetness. "The passage you seek, laden with treasures untold, lies beyond our prison... only the brave shall claim them," they lied, their promises as hollow as the void from which they emanated.

Amidst these deceptive calls, another presence made itself known. The spiritual guardian, a spectral owlbear roused from slumber, filled the chamber with its mournful rage. "Fools... all of them fools," it bellowed, its voice echoing off the walls with a mix of sorrow and fury. "The last to challenge the protocols met their end, not by my claws but by their own madness. Will you, too, succumb to the veil's seduction?"

-- Activated mechanical vines, now alive with a sinister intent slithering and s

eeking out Cook and Nebula. They have been directly attacked this round, defend on your next turn if you'd like or take the consequences.
-- Creeping mist, thick with the taste of the ocean and as cold as the arctic making sight and smell require Perception Ability F or higher. Plus it's a hazard that will begin freezing you to the bone next round.
-- Based on perception and position, Desmond is sure the Owlbear will arrive next round.
-- There is an option to explore and/or escape towards 2a (requires a strength or similar action), 3 or 5 are 1 move action (30 feet) and 8 is 2 move actions (60 feet) away. Perception or knowledge skills or assessment, etc could be used to scout.

Develius · Mar 20, 2024

Moments Earlier...

Hearing Vigil refer to him as "Mighty Desmond" had admittedly caught him slightly off-guard at first. He didn't expect his bluff to work. However, he proceeded to play along, giving a toothy grin of unbridled pride to prop himself up. The construct then stated how it could not feel joy or happiness, aside from his neutral monotone voice, to which Desmond frowned slightly. "But without joy, life has no meaning! Desmond keeps spirits up being happy! Metal Man should be happier more, yez!"

The construct then asked Desmond a unique query. One attaining to his songs' capabilities and if it bends the fabric of reality here. Desmond didn't quite understand that last part, but took full pleasure to "affirm" the first. "Erm, uh, yez?!" the raptor stammered briefly, posturing himself in a more upright stance with his arms crossed,"Desmond's songs are mighty as is Desmond's titles! They can warp minds to experience joy and goodness to everyone who listenz! And also banish stinky-binky foes to shame and ridicule! Yez yez, dis is true!"

Vigil also warned that Desmond's song may unintentionally activate certain aspects of the dungeon's infrastructure. Whether it was good or bad wasn't clear, but the raptor gave a confident scoff all the same. "Desmond's not worried." he boasted, raising his feathery arms up and outwards, "Desmond will prevail! Whatever dungeon throws iz no match for the Great and Mighty Desmond!"

Desmond tracked the illuminated pathway forward provided by the construct carefully. It stated that it will keep track of the raptor's "new inputs" and noting his "contribution to the harmony of the domain". Of course, it also warned against being too joyful might attract unwanted attention. It recommended that Desmond practiced vigilance. Desmond nodded vigorously. "Yez yez!" chirped the raptor as he proceeded towards the bag in the corner, "Desmond shall be VERY vigilant, Metal Man! Thankz you and hopes you haz a good life!"

Present...

Digging into the sacks contents, he'd find a few particular items of notes. The first he'd uncover were rather mundane, enough that he'd simply toss them aside for others to look at. He wasn't interested in those things, he was interested in the shiny that caught his eyes! The raptor's pupils grew with mounting interest before laying eyes on the culprit. He picked it up, turning his head for one of his eyes to to get a better look. In his claws was a shiny vial, full with a swirling glowing liquid that looked as if it was... dancing? Desmond had no idea what this potion was, but he couldn't help but be enamored by what was within. There was something in it worth drinking... something his mind was convincing that he should consume it. A scraggily voice was egging him on, one he recognized... by the one who introduced him to a substance that changed him, for better or for worse. The sounds around him became muffled and distorted as the voice grew ever louder... and bolder.

It urged him to drink it. It urged him to consume. It wanted him to relive enlightened clarity once more.

He'd find himself staring at the pretty vial for longer than expected, before hearing a sudden BANG! Immediately it shocked Desmond out of his stupor, causing him to shriek loudly in surprise. The shockwave rippled through his body, as he leapt some several feet into the air which nearly pushed him back to the wall! What the heck was that?! He remembered the first few seconds being all in a blur as he regained his composure through the thick dust and debris. He was able to save the vial and put it in his bag. He'll deal with that vial of worms later.

But once gaining the courage to turn around he'd be met with a terrible scene. The poor raptor gasped. Vigil was dead; now sporting a gaping hole that had blasted through its chest. And the smoking gun of it all, stood the mysterious Red-Eyed lady; her eyes glowing dimly amiss the dark dungeon. Nebula had shot the construct, all while gazing in a cold, heartless expression devoid of empathy and guilt.

"W-WHY?!" Desmond screeched towards Nebula in utter bewilderment, "WHY DID YOUZ DO THAT?! METAL MAN WAS NO ENEMY! HE WAZ FRIEND!" Cook seemed to be sharing the same sentiment, stated how an action like that nearly killed 'em. For a moment Desmond felt like his statement was validated, expecting for a moral argument between the boys and the gals to take place. The raptor looked at Cook for advise, expecting him to lead the charge...

But what he saw instead was a disturbed face twisted in a malicious grin. Before he'd know it, the man would STRIKE at Vigil with his knife, goading the construct to attack with an encouraged remark towards violence.

Desmond couldn't believe it.

The raptor screamed madly; his great and mighty persona now devolving into sheer panic and horror. "YOUZ TOO?!" he shrieked, clearly upset and shocked by how sudden to violence they've gotten, "WHATZ IS GOING ON HERE?!" He glanced desperately over to Lauren for help, hoping she could somehow defuse the situation. That's when he realized another unfortunate circumstance. Glancing just behind her, he'd see that the entrance was now sealed off by a barrier. "W... We're trapped!" Desmond gasped, his voice now getting shakier, "Oh no, oh no, oh no, diz isn't goodz!"

The damage had already been done... and now they were to suffer the consequences. The dungeon's defenses had now been activate, as mechanical vines burst into the chamber from both the walls and floor. Desmond ensured he stood a good distance from their unfurling tendrils, attempting to dodge their attempts with [Acrobatics F], before feeling a cold miss rise from the floor. Desmond began to cough as the familiar saline air flooded his nostrils and bittering his tongue, while the chilled air attempted to seep through his warm feathery coat. Even with his robe covering his already dense plumage, the poor raptor was already feeling very cold.

There was a moment of ominous silence, before an avalanche of voices cried out in utter anguish, whispering for them to continue on to find the treasures within. Desmond didn't trust those words one bit. He already had a voice echoing in his head currently, he didn't want any more! Then another voice echoed close by, one filled with sorrow and rage. It sounded... animalistic, yet intelligent. Deceptively so. Whatever it was, it wasn't happy to see them! And it ensured they would all perish here!

Desmond utilized [Perception F], trying to pinpoint where it was coming from. And while he couldn't figure out WHERE it was, given that it filled the entire chamber, one thing was for certain. "Scary voice is coming this way, yez!" the raptor barked, trying to alert the others to his situation, "Soundz biiiiiig! We need to go!"

The raptor's toe-claws twitched, desperately trying to figure out what to do next. His nerves were shot, both mentally and about to be numbed physically, but he wanted to help his group somehow. Maybe if he just ran forward down the hall he might bump into something useful? That or maybe he'll bump into something much more unpleasant, but that's future Desmond's problem! Without a solid plan in mind, Desmond ran [Fast E] straight into the entrance just past the bloodied pack and skittered down the Hallway. He carried his Basic Light Stone in hand, his only beacon in such desperate times.

ITEMS:

Antidote Vials F (x1) - Simple yet effective, these vials can neutralize common poisons. Handy in a pinch and easy to use.
Basic Light Stones F (x1) - Emit a soft glow upon activation, illuminating dark areas without attracting unwanted attention.
Crystal Vial Containing a Breath of Wind E (x1) - Unleashes a gust strong enough to clear paths or solve wind-based puzzles. Its uses are as varied as the imagination of its wielder.
Dreamshade Elixir E (x1) - The delicate shiny vial filled with a swirling, luminescent liquid that seemed to dance with its own inner light. This was no ordinary potion; it was [Dreamshade Elixir], a rare and potent substance rumored to grant visions of otherworldly clarity, but at a steep price to the unwary.

TITLES:

Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt F (x2)
Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt E

II-CinderRadcliff-II · Mar 20, 2024

TRAVERSING SOMEWHERE

Moments earlier...

As Vigil seemed to ponder over the Titles she had revealed to it, Lauren patiently waited for a response from the golem - her eyes scanning it over trying to learn more about how it worked. Though she had her doubts that there was much she could learn about how it functioned. The query it voiced brought her attention back to its gaze, giving a slight smile as she prepared to answer its question.
"I don't know the intricate details about how it works, but the wires in these prosthetic limbs are connected to the nerves in by body - allowing me to move them as if I had never lost my previous limbs... Aside from the nerve connections, there are multiple screws and bolts that had to be drilled into the bones where the metal sockets meet flesh. As you can probably imagine, I wasn't the one who attached them... Rather, it was a former lover that lost their sanity and died from a collapsing building." Lauren informed Vigil as her expression shifted into sorrow, the memories of her host still haunting her. It had become more bearable since she escaped from the ruins, but she could never revert back to the bliss that was her former ignorance. Despite her efforts to avoid remembering the pain from her hosts life, bits and pieces still found ways to slip into her day-to-day life and conversations. Vigils cautionary advise was quick to catch her attention, forcibly taking her mind off of her memories as she heeded his advise. "The forewarning is very much appreciated. I've been through a similar experience before, so I've already taken some precautions in preparation for the dangers lurking further in."

Present...

As Lauren slowly walked away from Vigil towards Desmond near the hallway, the sudden movement in her peripheral vision from Nebula caused her fight-or-flight instinct to kick in. As soon as she had turned back towards Vigil and Nebula the shockwave from the attack against the golem hit her, though she only stumbled backwards a little thanks to her being prepared to defend herself. Her eyes quickly went wide when she realized that they had attacked Vigil, looking towards Cook and Desmond to see what their reactions were. Desmond looked bewildered and horrified at the whole situation unfolding, a sentiment she could agree with - especially after watching as Cook revealed a more twisted side of himself as he joined in the attack on the golem. Vigil had done nothing to try and attack them. And now not only was the golem rendered as lifeless as the walls of the dungeon itself, but the entrance of the dungeon was sealed off either until they thoroughly searched for an alternative exit or cleared all of the dangers lurking deeper within the dungeon. Her hands clenched into fists in frustration with the idiocracy of the two people in their party.
"What idiotic thought ran through both of your skulls before both of you attacked the golem Vigil?" Lauren pondered in a tone that blatantly broadcasted just how peeved both Nebula and Cook have made her, wrapping one of her hands around the hilt of the sword as her eyes gave a harsh glare to the two of them. Her gaze shifted towards Nebula specifically however, as she had actively attacked the golem without any provocation. "Did the thought ever cross your mind that completely annihilating the guardian of the dungeon - whether by accident or by intention - could potentially turn this dungeon into our permanent tomb? That dumb stunt of yours just trapped us all in here, and revoked any trust I previously had in you." Lauren finished her lecture as she turned away from both Nebula and Cook, walking towards Desmond in the few moments of brief silence that followed the golems eternal slumber.

Then all hell started breaking loose a moment later.

The mechanical vines were enough of an issue to deal with, though the mist seeping from the floor also didn't help. While her legs and arm weren't affected by the mist due to being made of metal, the rest of her body was susceptible to its cold embrace. Regardless of the situation, Lauren was quick to take action. Pulling out her sword from its sheath with her normal hand, she raised her prosthetic arm above her head in an attempt to protect herself from the vines. Though with how little protection it provided... She felt a brief moment of clarity as she ran towards the hallway Desmond had fled to, before feeling some of her mana being drained into her arm. As she glanced up she saw a transparent blue... thing, floating over her head. It almost looked like a [Holographic Great-Shield]... The vines above seemed unable to simply pass through it, and so she decided to utilize it for now and figure out how she did it later. Any vines that weren't blocked by the shield she used the sword to swing at, running as quick as she could to catch up with Desmond.

[Magic Gleaming Sword - Grade F] from Vigil's Room in the entrance of the dungeon. Despite the sheaths condition, this mithril blade gleams brightly in any lighting condition, amplifying the light and projecting it out to AOE Grade-E 50ft! The [Equipment Limiter, 1: Requires External Light Source] does apply. F-grade characters aren't allowed to use magical items like these unless you had Focus F skill. For you it's just a nice shiny sword made of Mithril. Exchange for an F-grade asset, gear, or debt if bartered during this thread, but there's potential to convince someone it's worth an E-grade debt or asset.
Simple Breast Plate [Heavy Armor F] - Simple yet effective armor that takes advantage of your Vitality. Grade: F.
Sobriety Pendants [Grade: E] - Enchanted to keep the wearer clear-headed and free from the influence of intoxicants, magical or otherwise. Perfect for navigating environments saturated with mind-altering substances.

[Holographic Great-Shield] - Grade E - 1 Post Cooldown

Feature F [Catalytic Augment] + Magic E + Componentless Magic F + Selective Magic F + Barrier F
Using the Catalyst built into her arm alongside her magic, Lauren can project a barrier in front of herself. This barrier is shaped to look like a great shield and is anchored to her arm, allowing it to move alongside her until the duration expires or until the barrier is broken.

Uasal

IN ISEKAI HELL

Maxxob · Mar 20, 2024

Cook

Uasal

Battle in the Ruins - Darkest Dungeon

As Cook’s wizened eyes saw the guardian, once standing as a beacon of knowledge, information and perhaps the only companionship to be found in the ruins, now destroyed and left to be claimed by the passage of time, his eyes narrowed with subtle enjoyment. His blood was still running hot, adrenaline pumping through his veins at increased quantity. "Hah! Way to go, girl! That was some fancy magic work you pulled off there!" He shouted, directed at Nebula, but without moving his eyes away from the fallen construct. However, the victory over the golem, who had presented no harm at that point, did have overreaching consequences. From the corner of the human’s eye, he saw that the entrance to the dungeon had been sealed shut, and their only means of escape could have been gone forever. However, the knivesman’s expression didn’t show horror or desperation, but annoyance. He would carve a way out of that ruin, even if he had to gut every creature in it.

His eyes would then dart towards the very corner of the room, which lead to a passage to the next chamber and where Desmond had been rummaging through the remains of previous delvers. The middle-aged man would offer a small shrug to the raptor’s shrieked chastising, only really speaking out when Lauren’s backlash was voiced. Letting her vent out her very valid frustration, easily noticing how furious she was with the whole debacle, he began in a calm, chilling tone. "Y'see, when one of us gets tangled up in a scrap, reckon all of us are in the thick of it. Maybe the gal spotted somethin' off 'bout that golem, or maybe it was somethin' else. But let's not go forgettin', we've been knee-deep in hostile territory since we set foot in this here dungeon." He added, without a shred of remorse, about what had just taken place. And, just as Cook had said his piece, something lashed out against him. With his defensive stance kicking in [Cook’s surprise], his hand which held the knife moved on its own, steel clashing against steel.

As the attacker recoiled, he could see what it was: a mechanical vine which slithered like a snake. However, since his attention had been directed as Desmond and Lauren, he had not the opportunity to counter-attack the mechanism instantly. His tongue clicked, audibly, with displeasure. In tandem, the human could taste the mist which now was being poured into the chamber, feeling his lower limbs begin to chill ever so slightly. Cook knew he had to act, and it needed to be fast. And the feeling of urgency only grew as voices which whispered began to reverberate within the chamber with false promises of treasure, their tone laden with honey. Yet, in the fervor of still ongoing battle, the middle-aged man’s mind blocked all, but Desmond’s voice. Putting himself into action, being sure that the crimson-eyed girl would be more than able to handle herself, he attacked the mechanical vine which targeted him.

The chef’s knife in his hand danced through the air once more, slashing and stabbing with uncanny reflexes. After repeating the attack which added to the fallen guardian’s destruction, he would slash horizontally once more, attempting to mangle or destroy the mechanical appendage. "We gotta skedaddle, pronto!" The human bellowed at whoever was still left in the room, not even waiting to see if his attack had any success or not. He began rushing, running with abnormal speed, fleeing from the crippling mist which was filling the room. He took the exact same path as Desmond did, running towards the exit of the chamber and down the hallway. The sobriety pendant on his neck shifted slightly left and right with each step, as Cook plunged himself into the unknown.

Actions:

1 - Five Star Chef - Weapon Mastery [Knife] F, Area [5ft] F, Selective [Mechanical Vine A], Blight [Bleed] F, Penetrating F, Accurate F, Incurable F, Continuing [Poison] F, Contagion F, Energized F - Grade F Cooldown 0 - With a quick swipe of his knife, Cook attacks a 5ft area around him, accurately homing into his targets. The deep stab makes the target bleed, as well as poison them, spreading the effects to whatever other target that comes into contact with them. 1 Action
2 - Basic Attack against the Mechanical Vine A
3 - Come back here! - Fast [F], Energized [F] - Grade F Cooldown 0 - As a shifty old man, Cook can run through greater distances than one would expect from someone his age.

Strength E (2) + Chef’s Knife (1) + Weapon Mastery F (1) = 4 + 1 (Basic attack) = 5
Five Star Chef added damage = Blight [Bleed] +1, Continuing [Poison] +1, total 7
Ability has Penetrating F (-1 to items used to defend/counter) and Accurate F (-1 to Speed)

Cook gained from Mira, Ember Inn:

Sobriety Pendant - Enchanted to keep the wearer clear-headed and free from the influence of intoxicants, magical or otherwise. Perfect for navigating environments saturated with mind-altering substances. Grade: E. Note he promised Mira some closure on her husband. (Wearing it)

Cook gained from Varic, Ember Inn:

Antidote Vials (x1) - Simple yet effective, these vials can neutralize common poisons. Handy in a pinch and easy to use. Grade: F.
Detoxification Spell Scroll - When activated, this scroll purges the user of toxins and minor curses, a must-have for any adventurer delving into places unknown. Grade: E.

Cook owed from Varic, Ember Inn:

Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt, Grade F. Failure to pay this back will result in the narrator requesting Grading Mod to make this a permanent title. Holders of this title will be unable to trade with merchants upon being assessed for purchases of F-grade or higher.
Temporary Title: Imperfect Debt, Grade E. Failure to pay this back will result in the narrator requesting Grading Mod to make this a permanent title. Holders of this title will be unable to trade with merchants upon being assessed for purchases of E-grade or higher.

Cook Gained in Room #1:

[Mira's Husband Journal]. This is a [Quest Item]. Useful for giving Mira peace of mind and/or rewards from appropriate Azuran officials in The City of Azuran. While most of it is ruined, no doubt higher level magics or skills could reverse the damage.
[Gear, F: A kit of field rations with pepper and sage]. This gear is sufficient to handle situations related to Hunger F while in the dungeon.
[Item, F: Waters of Spice, an intoxicant]. A filled water skin filled with a liquid that smelled of cinnamon and spice that if drunk has an exhilarating, intoxicating affect on it.

Uasal · Mar 21, 2024

~Nebula~
(Mundane Monster)

As chaos erupted in the chamber, Nebula's expression remained unchanged, her features stoic and unreadable. Cook's sudden enthusiasm for violence and Desmond's panicked screams barely registered with her. She had never cared much for the opinions or emotions of her companions, viewing them merely as means to an end.

Lauren's scathing words cut through the air, but Nebula felt no remorse or guilt. The mention of trust puzzled her—she had never trusted any of them to begin with. In her eyes, they were all disposable pawns in her quest for power and knowledge. Whatever bond they thought they shared was nothing more than a fleeting illusion, easily shattered by the harsh realities of their situation.

Ignoring Desmond's panicked cries, Nebula focused on the task at hand. The threat was the mist and mechanical vines, and they needed to be dealt with promptly. With the other three members having escaped the room in rapid fashion, Nebula was free to be a little more aggressive in terms of her spell-casting. Out of sight now, she revealed her galaxy-like hand and arm, raising it high into the air above her head. With her catalyst firmly grasped, Nebula spoke aloud "Dimensional Well".

As she did a small red orb no bigger than a marble appeared above her extended arm. It was dense, so much so the space around it was visibly warping. "Activate". In a dim flash, the small orb quickly grew to the size of a watermelon and its gravitational pull quickly began to draw in everything within its sphere of influence, excluding only Nebula and the party members accompanying her.

Those fortunate enough not to be crushed by the gravitational pressure of the orb's effects when pulled close would be banished to Hell temporarily.

Actions: 2/3

Dimensional Well - Magic E, Domain (Spacial Fabric Manipulation) F, Gravity Affinity, Magical AOE F, Energised E, Selective Magic F (Excludes Nebula and Party), Incapacitating F, Aura F, Vorpal F, Penetrating F, Accurate F, Portal F (Hell Plane) - Nebula overloads the fabric of space around her with mana after pulling two planes together, creating a localized gravity well that will crush or immobilize any foes within range before transporting those who survived to an alternate plane. A complex and deadly method of attack. - E Grade - 1 post cooldown. 2 Actions.
Effectivness: 5+4+2= 11 + Pen + Accurate. 1 true damage to all in range that aren't excluded by selective.

Note true damage will trigger regardless of success or failure.

gmimperfecti · Mar 22, 2024

In the wake of Vigil's demise, the dungeon's defenses sprang to life with a vengeful urgency, unleashing mechanical vines that thrashed with deadly intent and a cold mist that threatened to sap the warmth and will from anyone caught within its grasp. Amidst the chaos, the adventurers, bound by a shared goal of survival, made their desperate dash down the ancient, echoing hallway, past the beckoning mysteries of The Hall of Echoes and the arcane complexity of The Essence Harvesters' Workshop, towards an uncertain fate that lay ahead.

Desmond, with his raptor instincts on high alert, navigated the onslaught of vines and mist with acrobatic finesse. His [Fast E] speed a blur as he darted past the bloodied remnants of previous explorers, Desmond's light stone cut through the darkness, a single point of hope amidst the enveloping despair.

Lauren, her prosthetic limbs immune to the chill but her spirit undeterred, summoned a [Holographic Great-Shield] with a clarity of purpose she hadn't known she possessed. The shield, a beacon of azure resilience, repelled the mechanical vines as Lauren carved a path through the entanglements, her sword flashing in defiance of the dungeon's malevolence.

Cook, ever the pragmatist, faced the mechanical menace head-on. His chef's knife, an extension of his will, danced a deadly ballet, slicing through the animate vines as if they were no more than the ingredients of a particularly challenging recipe. With a cry of determination, Cook unleashed a burst of unexpected speed, following in the footsteps of his companions as they plunged deeper into the dungeon's heart.

Traversing down the hallway, the adventurers' footsteps echo against the stone, each sound magnified and distorted, playing tricks on their senses. The corridor itself is a gauntlet of forgotten lore and untamed wilds, with drainage gates and vestiges of the facility's infrastructure casting long shadows across their path.

About 30 feet ahead, the corridor splits, offering a choice between two chambers, each a world apart from the other.

To the right, a flight of stairs ascends to the Echo Chamber, where the very air seems to thrum with an unseen force. From a quick look, this hall, however, is more than a mere obstacle; it serves as a hub, connecting various doors and passages that lead deeper into the dungeon's heart. The Echo Chamber promised secrets wrapped in silence, a place where words carried weight and whispers could kill.

To the left, the corridor descends into the Essence Harvesters' Workshop, a technological marvel even in ruin. Arcane machinery, now silent, fills the room, once used for the extraction and refinement of Dreamshade essence. A testament to ambitions unchecked and lives unmoored.

The air here is thick with the presence of automated defenses, still guarding their long-abandoned posts. Amongst the detritus of failed experiments and arcane research no doubt lies the key to understanding the alchemical under pinnings of what happened here.

At the corridor's end, the path is obstructed by muck and refuse, leading to the Warren of Owlbears. This area, once a part of the facility, has been claimed by the dungeon's spiritual guardian and its kin. Bones, gear, and remnants of the unfortunate adorn the nest, woven into a macabre tapestry of survival and territory. Here, the cycle of life and death continues unabated, a stark reminder of the dungeon's capacity to adapt and reclaim.

Here are optional opportunities for advantage or Loot. Each round you can use skills, abilities, and stunts to explain how you might have uncovered and leveraged an advantage or snatched some interesting piece of loot. You can ask more questions in our thread or privately to me on Discord. You must justify your acquisition through role playing and skill/ability usage.

Note: When Desmond and Cook arrive the owl bears at first don't seem hostile. However, when Lauren arrives the atmosphere shifts. This are juvenile owl bears and function something like a group of enemies. At first glance there's likely 20 - 30 spread throughout the warren. They do appear to naturally form clusters or grouping. Initiative goes to players first then the npc's will respond next round.

Advantages:

Within the warren of juvenile owlbears in [Elysium's Veil], several hidden advantages lie in wait for perceptive adventurers. Discovering these could significantly turn the tides in their favor as they navigate through the dangers of the dungeon. Here are three hidden advantages:

Ancient Totems of Harmony:
- Description: Scattered throughout the warren, ancient totems imbued with a calming magic have been overlooked by the owlbears. These totems, remnants of the dungeon's original enchantments, can emit a soothing aura that pacifies the owlbears temporarily, making them less hostile toward intruders. If adventurers find and activate these totems, they can create safe passages or areas within the warren where they can rest or bypass the owlbears without conflict.
- How to Use: To activate a totem, players must solve a simple puzzle or alignment challenge that attunes the totem to the peaceful aspects of the dungeon's magic. Once activated, the totem's aura lasts for a limited time, providing a temporary haven.
Residual Dreamshade Essence:
- Description: The warren's proximity to the Essence Harvesters' Workshop has led to the seepage of residual Dreamshade essence into the area, unknown to the owlbears. This essence, when carefully collected and refined, can be used to create potent concoctions that boost the adventurers' abilities or weaken the owlbears.
- How to Use: Adventurers with knowledge in alchemy or magic can gather the essence found in patches around the warren. Crafting it requires finding specific apparatus or tools, potentially located in the nearby Essence Harvesters' Workshop. The concoctions can then be used strategically during encounters.
Veil's Echoes:
- Description: The walls of the warren, much like the rest of the dungeon, are imbued with the latent magic of [Elysium's Veil]. In certain areas, whispering echoes can be heard, offering cryptic clues or warnings about the dungeon's hazards and treasures. These Veil's Echoes can guide adventurers to secret caches of supplies left by past explorers or reveal weaknesses of the owlbears that can be exploited.
- How to Use: Listening carefully to the whispers and deciphering their meanings allows the adventurers to make up a lead or hint that they can use as a hidden advantages within the warren. Success may require piecing together the clues from various echoes or performing specific actions in response to the guidance offered.

Uncovering these hidden advantages requires keen observation, clever thinking, and sometimes, a leap of faith. For adventurers willing to explore beyond the surface dangers, [Elysium's Veil] offers opportunities to turn its own mysteries against the threats lurking within its depths.

Loot and Treasure:

In the depths of the Warren of Owlbears within [Elysium’s Veil], amidst the chaos and the remnants of arcane experiments, lie hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by daring adventurers. Here are three cool treasures or objects of significant value:

Circlet of the Guardian Owlbear, Grade-E:
- Description: This ancient circlet, adorned with feathers and a bear's tooth, is said to have been worn by the first owlbear that ever guarded the dungeons of [Elysium’s Veil]. It grants the wearer enhanced perception and strength, embodying the dual nature of its original guardian. When worn, it allows the adventurer to see in low light conditions as if it were day and gives them a fearsome presence in battle.
- Powers: Grants the wearer [Low Light Vision], along with a +1 effectiveness boost to strength. Additionally, (Limiter once per adventure), the wearer can emit a roar that can either rally allies, providing them with a temporary boost in morale, or terrify enemies, potentially causing them to flee.
Feathered Mantle of Elysium, Grade-E:
- Description: This exquisite mantle is made from the feathers of juvenile owlbears, each imbued with a fragment of [Elysium’s Veil]’s magic. It shimmers with a spectral light and offers protection against magical attacks. The mantle makes it much easier to to blend into their surroundings, making it an invaluable asset for stealth or evasion.
- Powers: Provides +1 effectiveness resistance to [Elysium Veil, F-Grade] magics and a stealth enhancement. The wearer can activate the mantle’s camouflage ability once per adventure (Limiter), rendering them nearly invisible for a short duration.
Owlbear Cub Companion, Grade-E:
- Description: Amidst the warren, adventurers may find an owlbear cub that has been inadvertently separated from its kin. This cub, though young, already shows signs of possessing unique abilities tied to [Elysium’s Veil]. If befriended, it can grow to become a loyal companion, assisting in battles and providing its unique insights into the dungeon's mysteries.
- Powers: The owlbear cub can detect hidden traps and secret passages within [Elysium’s Veil], making it an invaluable guide. As it grows, it will gain abilities reflective of its dual heritage, such as a fearsome charge or a protective aura for its allies.

gmimperfecti · Mar 22, 2024

Uasal a stranger in a strange land...all alone...

As Nebula uttered the spell, the very fabric of the dungeon trembled at the invocation of such power. The mist, thick with arcane cold, and the sinuous mechanical vines, animated by ancient magics, both surged towards her, intent on engulfing her in their grasp. Yet, the Dimensional Well, a swirling vortex of cosmic energy, began to warp and bend reality around it, drawing in the hostile elements with voracious hunger.

The mist, embodying the chill of forgotten arctic seas, spiraled towards the well, its essence shimmering with a spectral light as it neared the event horizon. The vines, too, writhed and twisted in defiance, but found themselves inexorably pulled towards the swirling maw. The sight was a mesmerizing dance of destruction, as both mist and vine disintegrated upon contact with the well's edge, their substance shredded by the unfathomable forces at play.

Yet, as the spell reached its zenith, something unforeseen occurred. Nebula's manipulation of spatial dimensions resonated with hidden layers of the Veil, tearing through veils unseen and touching upon the forbidden. Her actions, a cacophony in the silent depths of interdimensional space, caught the attention of a being of immense power, The King in Yellow.

In that moment, the landscape around Nebula warped and twisted further, the air itself splitting to reveal a pathway none had intended to tread. The King, sensing the disturbance and the coordinates it provided, acted with swift decisiveness. Nebula found herself enveloped in[YELLOW], her spatial coordinates manipulated, transposed, and shifted to move her against her willing or not through the layers of the dungeon. Even with her D-grade ability available, resisting would have been hard, but that was on cooldown.

The transition was jarring, a disorienting shift that brought her before the grotesque court of The King in Yellow. The once dimly lit dungeon corridor faded away, replaced by the opulence and decay of a throne room that defied reason. She stood at the center of a grand, twisted hall, the focus of an audience she had never sought, facing a figure whose presence was as suffocating as the miasma that filled the air.

In this landscape of grotesque opulence and decay, the domain of The King in Yellow unfurled like a nightmare brought to life. This area, once a pinnacle of Elysium’s Veil's hedonistic ambitions, now served as a throne room for this formidable devil, a space where the boundaries between indulgence and horror blur.

The King in Yellow resided in what was once an amphitheater of pleasures, a vast hall designed for the entertainment of the facility's most distinguished guests. Now, it was a court of decadence and despair, with the King perched atop a throne made from the twisted bodies of those who sought to bargain with him and lost. The throne, a living monument to his power, constantly shifted and writhed, its components locked in an eternal torment.

Around him, the hall was filled with a court of lesser demons and fallen mortals, each transformed by their own excesses into caricatures of their deepest desires. These beings, caught in the thrall of The King in Yellow, partook in endless, macabre festivities, their laughter and screams merging into a cacophony that echoed through the corrupted halls.

The architecture of the space reflected the twisted nature of its inhabitants. Walls adorned with frescoes that animated to depict scenes of hedonism that spiral into madness, floors carpeted with lush, yet somehow unsettling, flora that seemed to feed on the debauchery around them, and ceilings from which hang chandeliers made of crystallized tears.

In the center of this depravity, a stage remains, where The King in Yellow often commanded performances from his subjects. These performances were not merely for entertainment but served as rituals that reinforced his dominion over this layer, weaving the very essence of decadence into the fabric of the realm.

Floating orbs of light that flickered with a sickly hue provided illumination, casting shadows that seemed to move of their own volition, adding to the unsettling atmosphere. The air was filled with a miasma that dulled the senses, making it hard for the uninitiated to discern where the hall ended and the nightmares began.

Nebula found herself not just in a physical space but in a battleground of wills, where to survive, one must navigate not only the physical dangers but also the psychological warfare that The King in Yellow excelled in. His presence permeated the area, a constant reminder that here, in his domain, the rules of reality bent to his whims.

To challenge The King in Yellow was to challenge the very nature of Elysium’s Veil's final layer, a task that required not just strength, but an understanding of the debts and desires that fueled this realm's existence. It was a place where the cost of failure was to become another ornament in The King's court, lost to the hunger of endless desire.

The air, thick with the essence of decadence and decay, vibrated with the whispers of voices lost to excess. Before her, shrouded in enigma and draped in tattered yellow robes that seemed to rewrite around him, sat The King in Yellow. His presence was overwhelming, an embodiment of both chaos and control, and his endlessly yellow eyes, concealed beneath the folds of his robe, fixed upon her with an intensity that pierced the yellow of her soul.

With a voice that echoed from everywhere and nowhere, deep and melodious, yet carrying an edge of madness, he spoke, his words wrapping around Nebula's essence like a tight hug.

"Ah, a visitor from realms afar, who wields the threads of reality as one might a simple tapestry," he began, his tone almost conversational yet laced with an undercurrent of something much darker. "To rend the veil so recklessly, to dance upon the edge of worlds with nary a thought for the precipice upon which they tread."

He paused, as if savoring the moment, the silence stretching between them charged with expectation.

"They have brought themselves to the heart of decadence, to the seat of my power, such a boldness commands attention. But tell us, do they understand the realm into which they have so blindly stumbled? The rules that govern this court of despair and desire?"

His laughter, soft and suffering, was the miasma in the room, the sound somehow both beautiful and terrifying. The other demons looked horrified and happy...and hungry for a new plaything to have arrived so fortuitously.

"Their actions have woven them into the tapestry of this place, a thread amongst the myriad, bound by the will of The King in Yellow. But fear not, for their arrival has provided us with a... diversion. Let us see whether they will become a cherished pawn in our grand design, or merely another soul lost to yellow of our domain."

With that, he gestured languidly, an invitation or perhaps a challenge, leaving Nebula to ponder her next move in this game of cosmic consequences.

Maxxob · Mar 22, 2024

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