Tales from the Stellar Realms 01: Time

Prologue

The crash of thunder filled the summer’s dry night air. Dark, thick storm clouds covered the sky, blocking out any starlight that tried to creep through. Standing atop the Arch Mountain was a cloaked figure; his silver eyes glistening as he watched the storm rage. How are we to combat them? A fallen god? he murmured as his claws tightened on a gold-colored leather tome.

A crash of lightning struck near his feet, shaking the very foundation of the mountain. The ground shook as it began splitting apart. As though responding to his question, the tome leapt free from the creature’s grip. Landing roughly upon the ground, the book fluttered as it flipped open to a specific spell. Warp. The cloaked figure looked at the spell and nodded softly. Yes… That could work, he spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, as he picked up the book in his claws once again. His left claw began sparking with magic as he read over the spell. Come from afar, heroes. Warriors from the Outrealms, come and take up arms. Come and save not only your worlds but save all worlds, he said as the ball of magic exploded into the sky.

There was an evil cackle from behind the tome user. He hesitated slightly but turned to face the newcomer. Standing before him was an eight-foot-tall creature shrouded in darkness. "Do you honestly believe some warriors from the Outrealms can stop what’s already begun?" The newcomer cackled, their teeth clicking and their emphasis on warriors and Outrealms sticking out. Their tone upon saying those two words was one of disgust.

Time Eater… the tome user began as he clutched the book tighter in his claws.

Time Eater smirked, their blood-stained fangs shimmering under the veil of darkness that surrounded them. I will purge this world and all others into a new era! One where my power is unquestioned! they roared as their tail slammed against the ground. Their smirk grew twisted and gnarled as they eyed their foe. I will destroy any who oppose me, starting with your precious warriors of the Outrealms. They sneered as they drew their demonic claymore and held it high.

"Is power all you desire? I know the true you. You once said having power did not make one strong," the tome user responded as he took a step back.

To have power is to be strong! You should know that better than any, Arcanist! For it was your kin who granted me such limitless power. Time Eater snarled.

Another crackle of lightning filled the sky as a distortion formed in the sky. Arcanist merely nodded to himself. ‘Tis done. Warriors, the best from each realm, are being summoned. Their might combined, they will stop you, he said as he watched the distortion.

Time Eater was unamused as their forked tongue flicked out of the veil of darkness. I will consume their flesh as I’ve done before. They cackled as they sheathed their claymore. A single year, Arcanist. A single year of time is what stands between me and my goal. Though even if your so-called warriors had a thousand years, they would still be nowhere near my power. They laughed as their large wings shot out from the veil of darkness surrounding them. Their powerful wings tore across the night as they flew off to their domain.

Arcanist sighed regretting to himself as he looked to the tome in his claws. If they fail, it won’t only be their individual worlds purged, it will be all of time and space, he murmured as he looked to the distortion in the sky. His silver eyes focusing as he saw four beacons light up. A frown hung on his face. I had hoped for more. Four… he paused as he watched the rifts, Four is less than last time. And the nine last time failed. Heroes, we’re counting on you. I’m counting on you. May your courage and skill save us all in these dark times.

images_image_qx02.png    images_image_qx03.png

Azura sat alone in her chambers. She stared longingly out the window, recounting her adventures that led her to this point. Absent-mindedly she toyed with her light blue hair, her lilac eyes shimmering in the light of the setting sun. Her thoughts drifted to the simpler times before everything. Never in her wildest dreams did Azura think she would be the one to take up the throne of Kardax. She always believed it would be her older brother, Henry, but he was gone.

She turned her gaze to the longsword and longbow in the corner of her room. A deep empty sigh escaped her as she recounted the two who had given their lives for her. Her elder brother, Henry, a paladin of the god of healing and mercy, Patrokolos. Henry was once the wielder of the longsword, Starfang, as he called it. He had been killed by a fiendish undead blue dragon, along with its master. Azura recalled how her brother had thrown himself in front of the monster’s claws to shield her from the assault. His final words still ringing in her mind. Live for me in the world you shape.

Henry had always believed she would make the better ruler. For it was Azura who believed in others, believed in the goodness within people. He was stronger and more disciplined, but she was the one with words. Azura wiped tears from her eyes trying to regain her composure. Every time she thought of how she was to rule, she would remember her brother and how he would encourage her.

Her gaze shifted to the longbow, Astra, the name given to it by its wielder. It was a simply crafted yew bow, but the carvings along the back of it made it look more elegant. Astra had belonged to a lavender-haired woman, Camilla Windstride; she was Azura’s retainer and best friend. Any retainer to those of noble birth would talk of willingly giving their life for their liege, though many never had to. Camilla however was different. Azura recalled how Camilla never spoke of such willingness, but when the time came, the bow user had done such. Azura gripped her spell book tightly as her eyes remained fixed on the longbow. It was the dark wizard, Narcian, that murdered Camilla. He had aimed a dark beam at the young sorceress, but the lavender haired ranger took the hit. She had tackled Azura out of the blast and taken such upon herself.

Azura was brought back to the present by a knock at her door. Milady, everyone has gathered for your coronation, came the maid’s voice.

She nodded, drying her tears as best she could. Yes, of course. Thank you, Hannah, Azura replied, standing. Her coronation had finally come, and though it was meant to be a day of celebration, she felt empty. But she had to be strong, she had to appear as regal as her older brother had when he rallied the outer provinces. Walking to the door, Azura felt everything grow cold. Her vision became fuzzy, and before long she saw only darkness. A rift appeared before her, the young future queen walking through without even realizing what she was doing or where she was going.

images_image_qx04.png    images_image_qx05.png

Chuck hefted his greataxe high into the air as he let out a victorious roar. He had conquered another clan master, taking the women and children as his own. Murdering clan leaders, all the men from the clan and taking his prize, this was what the mighty half dwarf, half orc lived for. His clan consisted of nothing but women, children and himself. All the women and children from other clans that he had ruthlessly murdered.

He would not have it any other way. He was enthralled with the power and dominance. Chuck, claim another prize for clan Bloodscourge! Chuck roared as he inspected the new members being added to his clan. If any looked weak or sickly, he would dispose of them.

As he went down the line-up, he noticed a single child that caught his eye. You! Chuck began as he pointed at the young boy. How fight you with axe? he questioned as he approached.

The young orc stepped forward, his hands shaking as he gripped his hand axe. He took a swing at the half-orc that towered over him. Chuck scoffed as the axe splintered against his sturdy frame. The sounds of gasping and gurgling filled the air as Chuck hefted the boy into the air. Chuck, see you as waste. You moxie, but to strike Chuck? Chuck growled as he choked the young orc. The women gasped as they watched the large half-orc kill the boy. Let be example! he roared.

Night soon fell upon the bloodied fields and the clan pitched their camp for the night. Chuck stalked through the camp, as was usual for him after acquiring new additions to his clan. As he reached his tent, he heard a distant roar of combat. Hefting his axe in one hand, Chuck charged towards the sounds. Not even looking, the half-orc entered an unusual ripple in the scenery.

images_image_qx06.png    images_image_qx07.png

Warren sat upon his lofty throne. Before him, the people had laid out a fine feast, for he reminded them every day that it was he who slayed the monstrous blue dragon. The elf smirked as he stood and walked over to one of his men. Tell me, guard. He paused.

Yes, sir! the guard responded as he stood straighter.

What is your purpose in Frothcrest? Warren asked as he watched the nervous man.

M-m-m-my purpo-s-s-se? Well… uh… My purpose is to serve you, King Couseland, he replied, trying to hide his fear.

Very good. So, if I were to ask you to demonstrate your loyalty to me? Warren began his question, watching the guard.

Anything you ask, milord! the guard sharply replied with no hesitation.

Warren smirked; he loved it, when his men were so quick to respond. Very good. I grow bored with the court jesters and their antics for amusement. I’ve decided on a new show for my amusement. Go to the arena and await further instructions, he ordered.

Yes, sir! the guard stated, then bowed to the elf. He took his leave, leaving the elf to the vast feast laid out.

Warren felt himself become very excited with the show soon to begin. He sat upon his throne once more, overlooking the arena. He snapped his fingers drawing the attention of the gatekeepers. Let the games begin. He chuckled as the three men moved forward. As the first two gates opened, the guard from earlier stepped forward from one side. And from the other side was a young man, black hair, green eyes. From the third gate, an executioner emerged dragging a young woman; she appeared to be in her early teens, black hair and green eyes much like the young man.

Father! both the children responded, seeing the guard.

Carver? Leandra? the guard exclaimed in confusion.

The elf felt it, the thrilling rush of absolute power. Warren smirked as he watched the confused family. Thomas Hemmington, Carver Hemmington, you’re both excellent fighters. So, I’ll cut to the chase. He snapped his fingers, pausing as he did so. The executioner brandished his axe, letting it hover over the girl’s neck. You two will fight to the death for my amusement. If either of you refuses, Leandra here is the one who will suffer.

Both men hesitated for a moment before drawing their weapons. Leandra had tears in her eyes as she yelled for them to stop. The men rushed one another. Sounds of metal clanging as Thomas’s greatsword clashed against Carver’s longsword. Warren leaned forward in his seat watching the fight ongoing. He devoured the feast as he watched the men fight in the arena. Blood stained the ground indicating one or both of them wounded. From the distance he was, Warren could not tell nor did he care which of them was wounded. He giggled excitedly as he watched the son best the father in the fight. Kill him, Carver, he ordered.

No, Carver responded as he dug his longsword into the ground.

Then that’s it. Your sister dies instead. Warren laughed. Thomas got to his feet, his greatsword in hand. He looked from the elf to his children. The father swung his blade around, decapitating his son; the squelching of blood filling the room. There was no remorse in the father’s eyes as his son’s lifeless body fell to the ground and head rolled to a stop. My, my, Thomas, that truly was impressive. Such loyalty. Good man. Executioner, release the girl, he added as he stood from his throne and turned away. He could hear the agonizing screams of the man as the axe came down severing the girl’s head from the body. How he enjoyed the screams, the anguish of others. Warren smiled as he walked out of the room.

He found himself in the royal gardens and frowned. This world bores me. I need new subjects to amuse myself, he said as he looked at the sky. As though responding to his very commands, a rift appeared before him. A smirk formed upon Warren’s face as he eyed the rift. He held out his hands to either side of his form. Armor soon covered his figure and a morning star and tower shield flew to his hands. Let the carnage begin. He chuckled as he walked through the rift.

images_image_qx08.png    images_image_qx09.png

Camilla took a deep breath before plunging into the drainage system. She had heard the sounds of the armored men pursuing her and knew this was her only option. Her only regret was not having a way to cover her ears for this escape. She felt the rushing water in them and mentally groaned knowing how putrid the drainage of the town was. As the ranger was dumped outside the city’s limits, she tumbled to her feet. Not the most pleasant side of things, she muttered as she stepped out of the mess of sewage. The squelching and squishing sounds filled the dull night’s air as Camilla got clear of the drainage. She shook off, trying to clear the guck from her hair and figure.

The ranger walked a small distance before coming upon a steady stream. She sighed as she cupped her hands in the stream using the water to clean herself off. It took some time, but she soon had herself cleaned up enough that she felt comfortable. She shook off, sending the water everywhere as she straightened out. Camilla sighed to herself again before walking into the tree line, looking for a place to set up camp. She tied a line five feet from her camp all the way around it. Hanging from the line were a series of bells and other small objects that could make sound. Once the perimeter was set up, Camilla sat by the small campfire skinning a rabbit she had trapped. While there was not much meat, it was still in her eyes enough. She roasted the rabbit before tossing the meat into the small stewing pot hanging above the flame. Why? she muttered to herself as she watched the flame. Her yellow eyes gleaming in the darkness. Why did I trust them? she murmured as she recalled the events with the supposed Guardians of Kardax. Camilla closed her eyes, shaking her head. Her thoughts drifted to the events leading to this point.

The arrows rained down. Everything went so fast. Roy and Kanna fighting the bandits. While she provided cover fire to allow Lun and Thrall to advance up and help in the fight. Gemma had gone invisible at the start of the fight. Before long, they were dead, all twelve bandits. Then came the night spent in Roy’s cave; the lizardman pulled the ranger aside to talk to her. You can’t just rain arrows down on random people! Roy growled.

They were breaking into your home, Camilla responded.

They’re still people! Roy snarled as he slammed his tail against the ground.

Camilla shook her head slowly opening her eyes as she recalled the event. She groaned as she slumped back against some of the rocks in her campsite. She took a deep breath before exhaling slowly. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. You let people in, and they eventually exile you. Just like before, how stupid are you! she yelled at herself. Camilla shook the thoughts from her mind as she served herself a bowl of stew. After the meal, she laid back on her bedroll and fell asleep.

The next night Camilla walked through the town, the hood of her cloak draped over her head, covering her from view. She remembered the intel she got from the guild; the town duke was the target. She watched him and moved silently. Camilla had seen him dozens of times, and each time was committing an act against various townsfolk. Whether it was the man trafficking children or raping young women. The thoughts of his acts sickened Camilla. She climbed the side of a nearby shop and perched upon the roof, watching the target. She let out a low steady breath as she nocked an arrow on her bow. Even now, he was up to no good. He dragged five children, all chained at the hands and chained together, forced to walk. Positioned not too far was the next man in the trafficking line. He had a wagon and looked ready to run.

Camilla watched for a moment, lining up her shot. She had to make multiple shots in rapid succession. One for each set on manacles, five. One for the target. Six. And one for the other man, but not a killing shot. Seven. She took a deep breath, nocking two additional arrows on her bow, three arrows on the string. Camilla pulled back the string, her body steadying itself as she released and quickly nocked two more arrows and fired. The five arrows hit their marks breaking the manacles. Before the duke or the other man could react, the sixth arrow flew forward, splintering the duke’s skull. Arrow seven left the string soon after and pierced the other man’s calf muscle. The children fled each one running a different direction. Camilla heard the man cursing under his breath as he reached for the arrow in his leg. She leapt down from the rooftop, drawing her short sword as she did so.

I wouldn’t touch that if I were you, Camilla stated as she landed nimbly on her feet. She smirked slightly as the slavery drew his hand axe and glared at her. I missed any vital areas intentionally. I want intel, she said calmly.

Bitch cost me my slaves. I was going to make big money for each of those brats. You know how much they worth? He paused as he tried to look intimidating but failed. He winced as he lost the ability to put pressure on his right leg. The man grunted in man as he slumped against a wall and collapsed to the ground.

Where was Duke Kilan getting the children? Camilla asked as she watched the slavery closely.

Orphanages. There’s dozens of children trickling in every day, none getting adopted. No one would notice if they just started disappearing. He growled as he tugged at the arrow.

Why? Camilla continued as she listened intently.

Huh? Why? We sold children? It paid well. Each of those brats was worth five hundred gold, six hundred if they were healthy. The man grunted as he fumbled with the arrow. He looked up when he noticed the shadow looming over him. You’re going to help me, right? This arrow is yours after all. He growled.

Camilla was silent as she stared into the man’s eyes. Her yellow eyes giving him a cold stare and causing him to swallow nervously. She drew forth her short sword, swinging it with all her strength and severing the man’s head from his body. The ranger stood, cleaning the blade off on the man’s attire. There was no remorse in her eyes as she sheathed her blade on her belt. They got what they deserved, she muttered as she pulled her hood up and disappeared down the alley.

It was not long before the guards caught wind of what was done and were investigating the deaths. Camilla left town, hearing the commotion of the townsfolk as she crossed the drawbridge out of town. She inhaled deeply as she set off into the wilds to the north of Kaylyntowne. Her feet quickening their pace when she heard the movement of the guards nearing the drawbridge. The wilds were her home; she spent much of her life in such and could easily lose her pursuers. Her yellow eyes beading everything she needed to know about the area as all light vanished from the density of the forest.

Night had fallen, and even the moon’s graceful light could not penetrate the forest overgrowth. Camilla frowned as she looked at the locket she carried. Where are you, Lady Azura? she questioned aloud before looking over her map. She tucked the locket back into her cloak pocket before drawing out her route. In the distance, Camilla heard a sound that drew her attention. It sounded like singing. She nocked an arrow on her bow and carefully approached. No one. There was no one in the area, but the ranger knew she heard singing. Her heartbeat slowed as her yellow eyes scanned the area, taking everything in in the low light conditions. Before her was a watery looking rift. The singing was coming from the rift itself, or from the other side. Behind her, Camilla her the sounds of guards rushing in her direction. She cursed under her breath. Her choices were limited. The rift or be captured. She silently nodded before diving into the rift. The guards came to stop upon the area but found nothing. There was no way their suspect could have disappeared. They split up searching the area but still found nothing. Nothing but the map with a drawn-out route upon it. They run off in pursuit of the route noted.

Chapter 1 – Chance Meetings

Chuck looked around as he found himself in an alleyway of a large city. He was not used to such; the barbarian was normally in the vast open lands of his wilds. He shouldered his great axe as he began walking around and looked for answers. Hey, big guy, aren’t you out of place? came a voice, causing the half orc to look over. Standing before him was an elf clad in full plate armor, brandishing an impressive looking morning star and tower shield. Chuck sized him up before drawing his greataxe and letting out a loud war cry. The elf smirked as he steeled himself. Looks like I get a fight right out the get go. Alright, come on.

Hey! Don’t fight! came another voice. A young girl with pale blue hair called as she rushed over to the two men. She was breathing heavily, clearly not used to running. Her lavender eyes glancing between the two men.

Stay out of this, girl. This is a fight between men! the elf stated as he rushed the barbarian. The two men exchanged strikes, both going for crippling wounds. Several guards began rushing toward the sound of combat; they shouted to the men to end their fight. It was not suited for city streets. There was a smirk from the elf as he swung out his morningstar crushing the skulls of three of the guards. I’d like to see you try to stop me, he stated.

Chuck roared, his greataxe cleaving through four guards as he rushed the elf again. The girl flinched back as she saw the bloodshed. Please, stop this, both of you, she began, her body trembling as she spoke.

Two arrows shot past, one striking the half orc-half dwarf’s bicep. The second arrow found its mark hitting a small chink in the elf’s armor and pierced his armpit. Both men staggered briefly before looking for the new attacker. Lower your weapons. You’ve already caused a scene. More guards coming this way, a lavender-haired ranger stated as she nocked another arrow. Her yellow eyes gleaming as she watched the three. Besides, the young lass did ask you nicely.

You always so cowardly you ambush your foes? the elf questioned as he removed the arrow and healed his wound.

Chuck fight ranger! Chuck roared as he lunged for the ranger.

She was fast and easily dodged the bullrush from the barbarian. A subtle smirk lit up her face as she fired an arrow at him. It did no damage but did explode creating a smokescreen. Chuck coughed a few times as he tried to wave off the smoke. As he moved, he felt something sharp against his throat. Move and I slit you right here, the ranger whispered as she held a short sword to his throat.

All three of you, stop this! the blue-haired woman cried as she watched the three others.

Before long, more guards were upon them. The ranger shook her head as she sheathed her short sword. Let’s be away, shall we? she said before taking off in a sprint. The others soon followed as she seemed to know where she was going. Guards could be heard from all over the city, pursuing them. As the four reached the outskirts, they came upon a vast cavern. With brief exchange of looks, they set forth into the darkness of the cavern.

The elf easily took the lead being able to see in the dark with his dark-vision ability. Not far behind him was the half orc-half dwarf. And behind him was the blue-haired girl. Stumbling at the back of the party was the ranger. What’s the matter, Hood? Can’t see in the darkness? the elf taunted.

There was a chuckle from the ranger as she fumbled with something. You’d like to think that, wouldn’t ya? Nah, I’m just clumsy outside of combat, she jested as she finished putting something over her eyes. The blue-haired girl glanced back, her eyes widening slightly when she saw the impressive pair of goggles the ranger had donned. What? Something wrong? the ranger asked looking over the blue-haired girl.

No. No. Nothing like that! I uh… you just look like someone I once knew, she stammered. After several hours of walking, they reached a more open room. The four paused before deciding to stop and catch their breaths. The blue-haired girl looked at the center of the room and cast a small fireball. Flames ignited the ground, illuminating the room and allowing the group to better view their surroundings and each other. I guess introductions are in order. I’m Azura Vaughan, she began.

Warren Couseland of Frothcrest, the elf proudly introduced.

Chuck, the half orc bellowed as he pounded a fist against his chest.

There was a chuckle from the ranger as she removed her goggles, allowing them to hang around her neck. Name’s Camilla. She was the last to introduce herself. Silence. Each stared at one another, trying to assess how to proceed. Camilla stretched her arms over her head, giving the three a mildly amused look. Well, like it or not, seems like we’re stuck together.

How do you figure, outlaw? Warren quickly shot back as he watched Camilla closely.

Outlaw? You figure that by my weapon choice? Or my fighting style? Camilla teased before letting her arms fall to her sides. She was clad in a forest green tunic; under such was a dark gray long sleeve shirt. Brown knee high boots covered her feet, and small pieces of leather covered her shoulders. Hanging from her shoulder armor was a black cloak with a hood. Brown faux leather gloves covered her hands. The fingers for her ring and pinky fingers were torn off, a single ring rested upon her left ring finger. Her lavender hair covered her left eye, giving her a faint aura of mystery. But the most concerning thing to the elf were her yellow eyes. Or perhaps how I dress? Camilla added with a slight click in her speech. Hanging from her belt were two short-swords, her quiver and a small bag. Over her shoulder was her longbow.

Warren narrowed his gaze. I’ve seen many of your kind. Steal from the rich, give to the poor. Kill those in power and create chaos. He spat. Warren was an elf, yet his armor would make many give him a second glance. Clad in full plate armor, he looked very intimidating. His blonde hair was pulled back in a single ponytail. His dark blue eyes sizing up the ranger. In his left hand was a massive tower shield that in a pinch could easily protect his entire figure. In his right hand was a massive morningstar that more closely resembled a mace.

Camilla rolled her eyes as she sat back upon a rock and watched Warren. "And I suppose you think you know all about a common thief like me?" she said with sarcasm in her voice.

Hey, break it up! Azura chimed in as she watched the pair. Azura was half elf-half human and had features from both. Her complexion was pale like an elf, and she had the slightly pointed ears of one. Her hair was long and pale blue in color; her lilac eyes glanced between the others. She was garbed in a very simple attire, a pale blue dress with black leggings underneath. White gloves covered her hands; small lumps at her ring fingers made it easy to tell she wore two rings. Around her neck was a simple amulet with her house crest engraved in it. She wore a pair of light brown ankle high boots to cover her feet. But the most stand-out feature to the young sorceress was how large her breasts were.

Chuck merely sat to the side, watching with a bit of confusion as the scene unfolded. He had black hair, his dark brown eyes glancing back and forth. The massive half orc was clad in nothing more than a loincloth and even that seemed to be not covering anything. His muscles were toned and very well defined, rippling with every moment. Chuck wonder what we do now? he finally spoke up.

We? What do you mean we? Warren responded as he looked to the half orc.

Well, we all did flee the scene of crime. Involved or not, we’re all seen in the same light by the guards. Outlaws. Criminals. Murderers, Camilla noted as she began setting up a wire around where the group was sitting.

And what are you doing, thief? the elf demanded. He watched as the human ignored him and continued. She was hanging bells, small trinkets, coins and other metallic objects from the wire before finally sitting by the small flame. Excuse me, I asked you a question.

Correction, you demanded an answer. And I don’t take orders from you, Camilla replied as she opened her pack and began looking through it. She mumbled a bit to herself before pulling out a bedroll and bag of dried meat. Looks like as good a spot as any to set camp, she added as she laid out her bedroll.

Azura nodded. Why don’t we all get some sleep and we can continue this discussion another time? All of us are riled up with emotions right now and aren’t thinking clearly, she suggested as she withdrew her bedroll from the small bag tucked under her skirt.

Chuck yawned loudly as he pounded his fist against his firm chest. Chuck agree. Chuck think we talk more after rest.

Warren hesitated but finally gave a nod. While he was an elf and did not require much sleep, he still required rest. He sat to the side, watching the others get comfortable on their bedrolls and soon doze off. With a faint grunt, Warren began undoing his armor, setting the full plate to the side. Once each piece of armor was off, he flicked his wrist, and the armor was called back into the bracelet he wore on his right wrist. What am I doing here? he wondered as he watched the other three.

The group rested for a few hours, nowhere near enough to be considered adequate sleep. Each gathered their few belongings back to their bags and readied to continue. Azura looked everyone over and smiled slightly. Ok, now that we’re all rested and calmed down a bit, why don’t we discuss our next course of action?

Alright, I’m all ears, Camilla replied as she collected her wire and metallic objects.

What happened to those guards, it affected all of us. So, like it or not, I’d say that means we’re in this together, Azura duly noted. She paused as she watched the other three. So why don’t we at the least get through this cavern together then maybe, just maybe see from there?

Chuck like plan. Chuck grunted as he stood.

Yeah, alright, sounds like as good a plan as any, Camilla said as she drew her longbow.

Warren sighed then nodded. Alright, but once we’re out of this place, I’ll likely bid you three a farewell.

The four began their descent into the depths of the cavern. Chuck had taken the lead, Warren behind him. Azura walked behind Warren, and behind her was Camilla, the human made certain to pull her goggles over her eyes before they continued. As they reached a series of tunnels, they found that there were many offshoots and branch points. Each studied the tunnels trying to decide which way to go. Camila walked along the tunnel mouths, throwing small pieces of chalk down each tunnel. What’re you doing? Warren asked, curious this time.

Checking for traps. If there’s traps, those chalk pieces are enchanted to create a small flash followed by a loud bang, she explained as she tossed a piece of chalk down the last tunnel. Most of the chalk pieces emitted a flash before loud bangs were heard. Hmm… Five trap tunnels, and three safe ones. What do you guys think? she asked as she nocked an arrow, listening for movement.

Azura threw a small fireball down each safe tunnel, illuminating them further than the group could initially see. Ah shi— Warren began as dozens of goblins rushed from the shadows of the safe tunnels. He flicked his wrist, his armor forming around him as he drew his morningstar and tower shield.

Chuck let out a war cry as he drew his greataxe and rushed forward. Camilla smirked as she nocked three arrows. Let the good times roll, she jested before saying something in a different language, a more reptilian sounding language. As she finished, her arrows began glowing different colors. One red, one blue and one yellow. She fired her arrows, each one splitting into more arrows of the same color as the original as they flew down the tunnels.

Azura began making very specific hand gestures conjuring various spells in her palms. In her right hand was a fireball, and in her left a blue orb that dissipated and flew into each of the other three. She flung the fireball forward, taking out six goblins. Chuck mercilessly cleaved his way through the horde, taking the heads off any who opposed him. Warren stayed toward the center of the group, using his shield to block incoming attacks. Camilla nocked three more arrows and spoke in the reptilian language again before letting the arrows fly. This time one was white, one was green and the last gray. The white arrow exploded upon impact with a goblin. The green one sent poison everywhere. And the gray arrow ignited the areas with the poison.

Nice trick, Hood, Warren jested as his morningstar crushed a goblin’s skull. He stepped forward, his tower shield bashing two goblins and forcing them to stagger.

Azura, Chuck, get down! Camilla called as she nocked an arrow. The shot was perfect. Both obeyed and ducked as the arrow whizzed pass. One. Two. Three. The arrow continued. Four. Five. Six. Six clean through and through targets off a single arrow. The seventh goblin hissed as the arrow became lodged in his chest. Before he could attempt to remove it, the arrow exploded within his chest.

The four exchanged glances as they realized they had dispatched the goblin horde. Not as individuals but as a team. All turned quickly to state which tunnel they should try, only to realize they had all turned to the same tunnel. Once again, Chuck took the lead, Warren behind him. Azura walked behind the cleric, and Camilla was behind her. Every so often the group would hear movement that was not their own.

Once the tunnel opened up again, they were met with a sudden drop and free fall. Azura and Warren managed to cast slow fall spells upon themselves but watched in horror as the barbarian and ranger fell helplessly. Chuck swung his greataxe out, managing to dig it into a wall to slow his fall. He watched the ranger fall past him, before she vanished from sight. Camilla took a deep breath as she positioned herself to take the fall. A sharp pain filled her right arm, but her fall stopped. Turning to look, she saw a red clawed hand had grabbed her arm.

Human flesh… so tasty. Something growled as the claw tugged at Camilla. The motion was painful for the ranger as the claws easily began ripping through the muscles in her arm, drawing out blood.

Her mind blanked; a sudden wave of fear clouded her rational mind. She remembered the tunnels from before, the fiendish lizard people. Their claws. Their teeth. Their hungry eyes. This clawed creature reminded her of the moment. The moment when she felt most helpless. Her free arm twitched