Chapter 46
"The Drums are Beating"
I turned to face Grace and Oliver, my expression a mix of concern and determination. I took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. I had other duties in which I needed to focus on.
"I need to go and check the front line," I said firmly, my voice carrying a sense of urgency. "Something tells me that there's more happening out there than we realize. I can't just sit back and wait here while our defenders are risking their lives."
Grace and Oliver exchanged glances, their faces mirroring a combination of worry and understanding. Grace stepped forward; her voice filled with empathy. "Violet, we understand your concern, and it's dangerous out there. The battle is fierce, and you're our only hope as the dungeon core."
I nodded, acknowledging their valid point. "I know it's risky, but my core is safe, these bodies are replaceable. I can't ignore this feeling inside me. I have a responsibility to protect not just this temple, but the lives of everyone here. I can't turn a blind eye to the front line while others fight for us."
Oliver stepped closer to the gate, his gaze filled with admiration and support. "Violet, we trust you. If you believe it's necessary to check the front line, then we'll stand by you. Just promise us that you'll prioritize your safety and not take unnecessary risks."
Violet nodded solemnly, grateful for their understanding. "I promise, I won't put myself in unnecessary danger. But I need to see with my own eyes what's happening out there. I need to support our defenders, offer guidance, and use my powers to aid them in any way I can."
With their agreement, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. I knew that venturing to the front line was my duty, but it was a task I needed to take. I have the weight of the world on my shoulders. I had the power to make a difference, and I wouldn't let fear hold me back.
"Thank you, both of you," I said, my voice filled with gratitude. "Stay safe here and know that I'll do everything I can to ensure our victory. We're in this together."
With a determined nod, I left my body in the temple tower and floated my point of view to the front lines. I was ready to face the challenges that awaited my people. The road ahead would be treacherous, but I also knew that I had my friends' support, which gave me the strength to face whatever lay ahead.
I floated my viewpoint above two gunslingers that were hunkered down in the trenches that we built around the kill zone.
Seraph Scalesong is a seasoned gunslinger with a weathered appearance that reflects years of dedication and experience, even if they have only been alive for about a month now. His reptilian features are distinct, with scales glistening in shades of earthy brown and green. A pair of piercing yellow eyes conveys a sharp intellect and an unwavering focus. He possesses a lean and agile frame, honed through combat and training. His attire consists of a well-worn duster coat, adorned with patches and insignias symbolizing their allegiance to the Librarians and Huntress. Strapped to Scalesong’s side is a holstered revolver, polished and cared for meticulously. With an air of calm confidence, Seraph Scalesong exudes a sense of authority and knowledge, testament to his unwavering commitment to protecting sacred texts.
I scanned the first snake librarian and the classic blue boxes popped up in my HUD.
Name: Seraph Scalesong
Race: Reptilian (Snake)
Class: Gunslinger
Subclass: Domain Librarian (Rare-Class)
Level: 5
Attributes:
Skills:
Strength: 12
Firearms: Proficient
Dexterity: 16
Acrobatics: Proficient
Constitution: 14
Perception: Proficient
Intelligence: 13
Stealth: Average
Wisdom: 10
Survival: Average
Charisma: 11
History: Average
Abilities:
Gunfighter's Prowess: Seraph Scalesong is highly skilled in wielding firearms, gaining a +2 bonus to attack rolls and damage rolls with ranged weapons.
Quick Draw: Seraph Scalesong can draw a weapon as part of a surprise attack giving them an advantage in combat.
Sharpshooter's Eye: Seraph Scalesong has keen eyesight and steady hands, allowing them to make precise shots even at long range. They have an advantage on ranged attack rolls beyond normal range increments.
Agile Dodge: Seraph Scalesong possesses exceptional reflexes, granting them the ability to dodge and evade incoming attacks more effectively. They can use a reaction to gain a +2 bonus to their AC against one attack.
Librarian Training: Seraph Scalesong has undergone rigorous training in the sacred arts of the Snake Librarians. They gain an advantage on History checks related to ancient texts and lore.
Background:
Seraph Scalesong has dedicated his life to the preservation and protection of ancient knowledge. Trained in the art of gunslinging, they are a reliable and skilled defender of the sacred texts. Their journey has taken them through various challenges, honing his combat prowess and deepening his understanding of the secrets hidden within the libraries. With a calm and authoritative demeanour, Seraph Scalesong stands as a stalwart guardian of wisdom, ready to face any danger that threatens his sacred duty.
Equipment:
Revolver: A finely crafted revolver with a customized grip and barrel.
Ammunition: A supply of specialized cartridges tailored for maximum efficiency.
Duster Coat: A weathered duster coat adorned with patches and insignias.
Adventurer's Kit: A set of basic supplies for survival, including rations, a bedroll, and other essential items
Potion of Healing: A restorative potion to mend wounds in times of need.
Scalesong spoke, "You ever get the feeling that something big is brewing? The air feels charged with tension, like the calm before a storm. Those bug riders were just the first wave."
Spellbind explained, "I know exactly what you mean. It's as if the entire world is holding its breath, waiting for the storm to break loose. I can't shake this sense of impending danger. Something big is coming, it is only heating up."
I scanned the second Librarian. Her information popped up in my HUD.
Sylphine Spellbind embodies a combination of grace and strength. Her slender and lithe figure, covered in smooth scales of deep indigo and silver, moves with fluid elegance. Her eyes, a mesmerizing shade of amber, reflect both wisdom and a touch of mischief. She was adorned in a tailored vest, embellished with intricate patterns, and complemented by a long, flowing cloak; the outfit epitomize a sense of refined style. Strapped across her chest is a bandolier carrying specialized cartridges, each meticulously crafted for maximum efficiency. Spellbind’s keen senses and quick reflexes make them formidable gunslinger, ready to face any threat that comes their way. With a quiet and observant demeanour, Sylphine Spellbind exudes an aura of mystery, hinting at the depths of knowledge and secrets they possess.
Name: Sylphine Spellbind
Race: Reptilian (Snake)
Class: Librarian
Sub Class: Gunslinger
Level: 6
Attributes:
Skills:
Strength: 10
Arcana: Proficient
Dexterity: 14
Investigation: Proficient
Constitution: 12
Perception: Average
Intelligence: 18
History: Proficient
Wisdom: 16
Medicine: Average
Charisma: 11
Insight: Average
Abilities:
Ancient Lore: Sylphine Spellbind possesses extensive knowledge of ancient texts and arcane lore. They gain an advantage on History and Arcana checks related to ancient civilizations, magical artifacts, and hidden knowledge.
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Scholar's Insight: Sylphine Spellbind has a keen eye for detail and can quickly analyze information. They gain an advantage on Investigation checks to uncover hidden clues or decipher complex puzzles.
Magical Affinity: Sylphine Spellbind has a natural affinity for magic, allowing them to cast a variety of spells. They can cast spells from the Librarian's spell list and have a pool of spell slots equal to their Librarian level.
Bookworm's Focus: Sylphine Spellbind's deep devotion to knowledge grants them additional concentration and focus. They have an advantage on Constitution saving throws to maintain concentration on spells.
Mystic Defense: Sylphine Spellbind has honed their magical defences, gaining a +2 bonus to their AC against spells and magical effects.
Swift Reader: Sylphine Spellbind can read and comprehend written material at an accelerated pace. They can use a bonus action to read and extract information from a book or scroll.
Background:
Sylphine Spellbind is a dedicated scholar and keeper of ancient knowledge. They have spent years studying the mystical arts and delving into the secrets hidden within the ancient tomes. With a thirst for knowledge and a deep reverence for the arcane, Sylphine Spellbind is a trusted advisor and researcher within the order of the Librarians. Their expertise in history, magic, and deciphering cryptic texts makes them an invaluable asset in the pursuit of unravelling the mysteries of the world. With a calm and contemplative nature, Sylphine Spellbind seeks to unlock the secrets of the past and harness their magical abilities for the betterment of their clan and the preservation of knowledge.
Equipment:
Spellbook: A well-worn spellbook containing a collection of arcane spells and rituals.
Staff: A simple yet elegant staff imbued with magical energy.
Scholar's Robes: Flowing robes adorned with intricate symbols and sigils.
Potion of Invisibility: A potion that grants temporary invisibility when consumed.
Arcane Focus: A crystal orb used to channel magical energies.
Scalesong said, "I've been hearing whispers, rumours of a possible attack, not just this skirmish but a full-on invasion. The wolves have been growing bolder, and the signs are all there. Now, you add these insects into the mix. We need to be ready, my friend."
Spellbind nodded along, "Agreed. We've faced countless threats before; however, small they were but this one feels different. The scorpions have always been a nuisance, but now it seems they've rallied, united under a common cause."
Scalesong took and deep breath in before speaking again, "We must stay vigilant and strengthen our defences. Our knowledge is our greatest weapon, but it's useless if we can't protect it. We can't let them breach our walls and desecrate the sacred texts."
Spellbind gave her a tooth-filled smile, "Indeed. Our duty as guardians of knowledge is paramount. We must stand together, shoulder to shoulder, and face whatever comes our way. Our skills with the gun are honed, and our resolve is unyielding."
"Remember, my friend, our gunslinging prowess is not just about shooting accurately. It's about quick thinking, adapting to the situation, and protecting one another. Our unity will be our strength."
I should listen to their conversations more often. I felt myself getting pumped up from their pep talk.
Spellbind hissed, "Absolutely. We're in this together. No matter what happens, we fight side by side. We'll use every trick in the book, every cunning strategy, to outwit and outgun our enemies."
Scalesong patted his friend on the back, "And we won't falter. We won't allow fear to paralyze us. We'll keep our aim steady, our fingers firmly on the triggers, and our eyes sharp. We're the defenders of knowledge, and we'll prove it."
Spellbind pull his revolver, did a fancy spin, which I just loved and slammed it back into the holster. "Let the bugs come. We'll show them the wrath of the Librarians. They'll regret the day they dared to challenge us. Together, we'll overcome this threat and preserve the wisdom of the ages."
“Right, there is no talking in our Library.”
They shared a laugh, and I gave a little chuckle at the bad dad joke.
As they finished their conversation, the two gunslinging Librarians shared a determined nod, their eyes filled with steely resolve. The impending battle loomed before them, but they were ready to face it head-on, defending their sacred domain with unwavering courage and firepower.
I double check the traps and fortifications that I had created for my fighters, but it was a few hours after midnight before the second wave finally poked its head out to greet us.
As the distant sound of war cries and drums echoed through the night, my heart sank. I could feel the weight of the impending battle pressing upon me, but I was strangely happy that the waiting was over. Finally, we were in the moment and a mixed sense of distress and excitement washed over my core. I knew that my people were preparing for a fight, risking their lives to defend what they held dear.
With a heavy heart, I closed my eyes in prayer, my voice soft and filled with both desperation and determination. "Oh, great Huntress, hear my plea," I whispered, my voice carrying the weight of my worries. "Watch over my people, those who stand at the front lines, ready to face the horrors of war. Grant them strength and courage in the face of adversity. Protect them from harm and guide their blades with precision."
System Notification: You have been awarded faith experience towards your vow.
I pushed the notification away, not worrying about the experience, levels, or skills at this point. I needed to have faith in my people. My words hung in the air, mingling with the scent of old books and the quiet stillness of the library. My mind was filled with images of her people, their faces etched with determination and resolve. I prayed for their safety, for their victory, and for the preservation of their way of life.
"May the Huntress bless our defenders with her divine presence," I continued, my voice gaining strength as I continued my prayer. "May she guide their steps, shield them from harm, and lead them to triumph over the forces that threaten our existence."
In the silence that followed, I felt a glimmer of hope, a flicker of faith that my prayers would be heard. I knew that the outcome of the battle was uncertain, but I refused to let despair consume me. Instead, I drew strength from my connection to the Huntress and the unwavering spirit of her people.
With renewed resolve, I opened my eyes, my gaze filled with determination. I knew that I couldn't simply sit and pray; I had a role to play in this fight. I would learn from my mistakes as I watched. I would learn and make my enemies pay for thinking they could enter my domain. I will make them bleed for each step they took.
"Stay strong, my people," I whispered to the night, my voice filled with conviction. "I am with you, and together, we shall overcome. We shall prevail."
With my prayer echoing in the air, I looked into the darkness, ready to face the challenges ahead and stand by my people's side. I stared into the dark, I could hear the drums and howls. I waited with courage as the armour foes stepped into view.
The fire ant attack on the librarians' front line of defence was swift and relentless. The night sky was ablaze with the crimson glow of their fiery wings as they charged down upon the snake scholars, their screeches piercing the air. The fire ants are a specialized weapon designed for close-quarters combat and offensive maneuvers, and they begin to unleash a torrent of searing flames toward the gunslinger’s defensive line. The air crackled with heat as the fiery stream erupted from the nozzle of the weapon, engulfing everything in its path.
Scalesong's jaw dropped open and said, "By the Huntress's scales! Look at those! What kind of insects are those? Their armour is unlike anything I've seen before. It seems we're up against a formidable foe."
Spellbind in a shaken tone stated, "Indeed, my friend. Their heavy armour suggests they are well-prepared for this battle. We cannot underestimate them. We must stay vigilant and rely on our training and skills to overcome this challenge."
"I can't shake this feeling of apprehension. We must be cautious and assess their weaknesses carefully. We cannot afford any missteps."
The librarians, armed with their venomous revolvers and quick reflexes, stood their ground, forming a formidable line to protect the domain and knowledge housed within their grand library behind them in the temple. Their scales glistened in the moonlight, reflecting their unwavering determination. As the trench came under attack, the warrior librarians' hearts raced, fueled by a mix of adrenaline, defiance of their enemies and fear. The deafening roar of gunfire and explosions reverberated through the air, creating a chaotic symphony of violence. Dust and smoke filled the trench, obscuring visibility and adding to the sense of disorientation.
The fire ants, adorned in their formidable heavy armour, marched with relentless determination into the kill zone. Each ant moved with precision and coordination, their steps synchronized like a well-drilled army. The clinking sound of their metallic armour resonated through the air, creating an intimidating symphony of impending danger.
Their armour was crafted from a combination of heat-resistant alloys and reinforced chitinous plates, providing excellent protection against both physical and elemental threats. The dark, reddish hue of the armour glimmered menacingly in the dim light as if reflecting the fiery spirit that burned within the hearts of these formidable warriors. The ants' armour featured intricate engravings and symbols, depicting ancient markings and sigils that represented their colony's strength and unity. The designs, a combination of sharp angles and flowing curves, added an aesthetic touch to their otherwise functional armour, giving them an air of mystique and ancient power.
Spellbind was clearly shaken as I watched over them. She whispered, "Gods above, look at the size of that creature! It's a monstrosity beyond imagination. I can feel my blood turn to ice in its presence."
As the enemy marched, the ground seemed to shake beneath their weight, their heavy steps leaving deep imprints in the earth. The sound of their synchronized footfalls created an eerie rhythm as if announcing their approach to anyone within earshot. Their helmets, adorned with menacing visors, concealed their faces, leaving only narrow slits for their glowing, fiery eyes to peer through. The eyes burned with an intensity that matched the flames that raged within their core, a testament to their unwavering determination and ferocity.
In their hands, the fire ants wielded an array of deadly weapons. Some carried massive polearms, their tips gleaming with razor-sharp edges designed to impale and slash through their enemies. Others brandished heavy war hammers, capable of delivering bone-crushing blows that could shatter even the sturdiest of defences. The weapons were crafted with a perfect balance of functionality and aesthetics, combining the efficiency of their design with the intricate engravings and patterns that mirrored their armour.
Scalesong took aim down his iron sights and spoke loudly so his friend could hear over the noise. "I can hardly believe my eyes. This is no ordinary enemy we're facing. Its sheer size and ferocity are enough to strike fear into the bravest of hearts."
Spellbind tried to speak up and said, "My hands tremble, and my voice fails me. I've studied countless creatures in our archives, but none compared to the terror that stands before us. The weight of despair settles upon me. How can we possibly stand against this abomination? It feels like a cruel joke played upon us by fate. "
That was when I noticed Alex heading up and down the line of Librarians cheering them on, "We must not lose hope, my friend. Fear may grip our hearts, but we are not defenceless. We must rally our fellow librarians and draw upon our collective wisdom."
Spellbind smiled at her leader and said, "You speak the truth, though my soul quakes with terror, I will not let it consume me entirely. We must find strength within ourselves and find a way to protect our people."
With every step, the ants advanced, closing in on their intended targets. Their synchronized movements, combined with their imposing presence and menacing armour, created a chilling aura of impending doom. The kill zone became a battleground of fear and uncertainty as the ants, driven by a primal instinct for conquest, prepared to unleash their wrath upon all who stood in their way.
The sight of these armoured fire ants marching into the kill zone was a formidable spectacle, instilling a sense of unease and foreboding in the hearts of their opponents. It was a testament to their military prowess, their unwavering loyalty to their cause, and their unyielding determination to claim victory at any cost.
Amidst the chaos, the gunslinger's grip tightened on their weapon, their fingers instinctively finding their place on the trigger. They felt the weight of their revolver, a familiar comfort in their hands. The cold metal offered reassurance amidst the chaos and uncertainty. Each deafening blast from their gun sent a jolt of recoil through their arm as if echoing the intensity of the battle. The acrid smell of gunpowder filled their nostrils, intermingled with the metallic tang of blood and the earthy scent of damp soil.
I watched as the gunslinger's senses sharpened; their focus honed on the immediate surroundings. They scanned the Killzone, searching for any signs of movement or danger. Their eyes darted from one potential threat to another, vigilantly assessing the situation and reacting with split-second decision-making. Time seemed to both slowdown and speed up simultaneously. Every second felt like an eternity, yet the battle was a blur of rapid movements and fragmented images. The gunslingers' minds raced, processing information at a heightened pace, instinctively seeking out targets and calculating trajectories.
The gunslingers’ hearts pounded in their chests, its rhythm a constant reminder of their mortality. They were keenly aware that one wrong move, one misaimed shot, could mean the end. The weight of responsibility pressed upon them, knowing that lives depended on their skill and accuracy. I knew that if the enemy got past the front line, there might not be a respawn for any of my warriors. If we lost the domain, I lost my dungeon core powers.
Amidst the chaos and danger, a steely determination settled within the two gunslingers I watched from the start. They embraced the role of protector; their resolve became unwavering in the face of adversity. They fought not only for themselves but for their comrades-in-arms, driven by a deep sense of duty and loyalty. Fear lingered, a persistent companion in the depths of the trench. But the two gunslingers refused to let it paralyze them. I was proud of them as they harnessed the fear, transforming it into focused energy, fueling their actions and sharpening their senses.
Alex yelled out along the front line as shell casings fell by the dozen onto the dirt floor, "Let our fear be the catalyst for resilience. Let it fuel our determination to outsmart and outmaneuver this beast. We owe it to our clan to face this horror head-on. Though our bodies tremble and our voices falter, we are the keepers of knowledge. Let us delve into the depths of our lore and uncover any secrets that may aid us in this dire hour."
The librarians all let out a cheer that rivalled the insect's drumming.
In the midst of the battlefield, I noticed that the gunslinger Spellbind found a strange kind of solace in the battle. She looked alive. I could tell she now felt a part of something greater than themselves. The relentless cacophony of battle, the palpable tension in the air, and the unyielding spirit of survival mingled within their being. As the battle raged on, Spellbind stood tall, a steadfast figure amidst the chaos. Her every movement was precise, her aim true. She fired with purpose and determination, holding onto the belief that her skills and resilience would see them through the darkness of the trench and into the light of victory.
That was when I saw the creature. He was clearly the leader; I could see him ordering his troops. He was heavily armoured, with black and gold plates covering their body from head to toe, the plate work fitted to the scorpion's exoskeleton underneath. The armour was adorned with intricate patterns of scorpion tails and claws, adding to their fearsome appearance. The leader helmet is shaped to cover their sharp mandibles and covered with curved horns jutting out from the sides. If I didn’t know better, he looked like he belonged in a grim dark fantasy novel.
I saw him lift a spear and threw it towards the front line. The through was farther than a kilometre, but it looked like it was shot from a ballistic missile. The spear was honed to a deadly point and soared through the air with deadly precision. It cut through the battlefield, whistling with chilling intent. Its target: Spellbind. She was becoming a formidable opponent, but it wasn’t meant to be. The spear arced gracefully, guided by a skilled hand, and found its mark. It impaled Spellbind, piercing her flesh with a sickening thud. Time seemed to freeze as the lifeblood drained from her body, her once-mighty from crumbling to the ground.
The air crackled with a mixture of awe and horror as onlookers witnessed the demise of Spellbind. The impact sent shockwaves through the battlefield, momentarily silencing the chaos of war. Warriors paused, their faces etched with a mix of relief and reverence, acknowledging the skill and precision behind such a remarkable feat.
The fallen foe lay motionless, her life force extinguished by the relentless force of the spear. It was a testament to the prowess and determination of the one who launched it—a warrior of unparalleled skill and unwavering resolve. I wanted him dead. I felt rage beyond measure. I wanted to boil the flesh from that leader’s bones. Spellbind should have been reading a book, or doing some research, she shouldn’t have died on this battlefield.
Amidst the battle cries and the clash of weapons, a hushed whisper spread among the ranks of my warriors, echoing the pain that this single act had caused. Spellbind was the first of my librarians to die that day. The spear's flight had cut through the chaos, but the fear seemed to leave the others. They would not stand for their sister’s death. Neither would I.
The fallen ally served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and the power of a well-aimed strike. The memory of the spear's flight would be etched in the annals of battle, a testament to the bravery and skill that lay within the ranks of the warriors who fought to defend their cause.
That was when the fires started…
In all my time back on Earth, I had never dreamed that I would be seeing a walking tank.
These firebugs.
The firebugs, which I found out later were ants, unleashed waves of searing flames, attempting to break through the librarians' defences. But the snake warriors, with their agility and strategic prowess, swiftly dodged the fiery onslaught, using their guns to counterattack.
The best part... they were about to hit my traps.