Upon their return to the cavern's entrance a female Guardian stepped forth. For an example of her species, the size of this creature was not so impressive, but the expertly crafted blade at her hip and the stern expression she wore spoke for the countless battles she had endured over the coarse of her lifetime.
"I am Inachus, the Matriarch of the Clan that borders the insufferable wastelands."
"For eons my ancestors have guarded the restless souls of this world; enduring the wrath of those forgotten by time's grasp and plagued by the horrors of the impenetrable darkness brought forth by the Shade."
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The male Skydancer that stood by Inachus' side nodded his head in agreement with their Matriarch's words; the butterfly and whisp like flames surrounding his body danced as he moved, their light illuminating the coal body of their creator. The thin dragon had been the first to approach the cavern and now spoke with intent and purpose.
"I am Hallow, guide to the lost and deceased souls of this world."
"The labyrinth of our home and the underworld it encapsulates is plagued by a creature touched by the Shade's magic. The Eidolon is a being of terrifying power, but it fears the light and thus my ancestors have used their magic to keep the creature at bay for countless moons. With each passing day the Eidolon grows in strength; those touched by its emptiness are trapped as well, but are also growing in power and soon I fear that my magic will be no match for these beings. We believe an ancient artifact needed to contain the Eidolon may be housed in this cavern."
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Hallow's words pipped the interest of the two Pearlcatchers of the group. The duo seemed intrigued and ready for their part in the explanation and as their time came, the pair spoke in unison.
"We are Cairnstone and Rotrock, the watch and ward of the oubliette's entrance. No creature, live or dead passes into the labyrinth without our permission"
Cairnstone gazed up at their Guardian judge, a look of admiration and solace embedded deep in her earthen eyes.
"If you deem us worthy, we will surely not disappoint-"
The male Pearlcatcher by Cairnstone's side nudged her, interrupting her words with his own.
"I understand your position, but 'no' will not be an acceptable answer. Too much is at stake and if needed we will use force to retrieve what we have spent so long searching for. The Eidolon cannot be allowed to enter this world and I will not let the suffering of my ancestors be in vain."
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As the others spoke of their intent, the male Ridgeback of the group stood behind, separating himself from the others by a good amount of distance. He watched not only this unnamed Guardian, but his own comrades with careful attention; his expression and posture making it very clear that little trust was between them.
"Threats will not earn this Guardian's trust Rotrock"
As the Ridgeback finally spoke, the others turned to face him, watching as he approached; the wires hanging from his torn flesh rocking rhythmically with his steps.
"I believe an introduction is in order. I am Wep'keer. My machines, or rather my abominations keep this clan alive."
"I believe you said any that wish to enter this cave need a healer to accompany their party, yes?"
The Ridgeback paused, grinning as a chuckle escaped his mangled throat.
"I am by no means a traditional healer. Through experimentation and research, I have found much more... Effective ways to treat a broken body. Machines are more efficient after all."
Wep'keer frowned with a snarl as he continued speaking.
For Reference:
Hallow:One who can scout ahead
Inachus:One who can withstand damage
Cairnstone and Rotrock: Two who can quickly bring down your enemies
Wep'keer: One who can heal you
Ashes | F
