As we made our way through the long and wide corridor, the metallic walls rusted and intertwined with pipes spewing smoke. The dim white light barely penetrated the darkness, making the space feel claustrophobic. The cold and oppressive air sent shivers down my spine.
Our group formed a defensive formation, with eight Magi on the vanguard, six on each side, and eight in the rearguard. In the center, I stood alongside the Priestess. The rhythmic thump of our footsteps echoed through the corridor as we pressed forward.
Curiosity overwhelmed me, and I turned to the Priestess, seeking answers about the grotesques that plagued this place. I asked her.
"Priestess, what exactly are these grotesques? Are they some sort of experimental creation?"
She turned her head toward me, her cold gray eyes locking onto mine. The Priestess replied, her voice calm and measured.
"The grotesques are former humans whose bodies have become twisted and misshapen, reflecting the desires that consumed their minds. Their corruption starts subtly, with mood swings and indulging in their base desires."
Pausing for a moment, she closed her eyes, and the rest of the Magi followed suit. When she opened her eyes again, she continued,
"But their souls eventually succumb to darkness, and their bodies undergo rapid transformation, turning them into grotesques. There are various types, and we should never underestimate them, for even the most twisted and deformed retain their intelligence."
Her words resonated within me, leaving me with even more questions.
"So many questions, and yet so few answers. What has truly happened here?" I pondered silently.
As we continued walking, the sound of our footsteps was the only noise in the corridor. The light dimmed further, pipes leaked a violet sludge, misty smoke filled the air, and machinery with tubes littered the walls.
Finally, we reached a gigantic rustic door adorned with runes. Coming to a halt, the Priestess and the entire Magi squad began to chant. Their prayer to open the door, seeking forgiveness and eternal rest, echoed through the chamber.
The massive door slowly creaked open, revealing nothing but darkness beyond. We held our breaths, prepared for any grotesques that might lurk in the shadows. Gripping my sword tightly, I readied myself for a possible confrontation.
The Priestess then signaled five Magi to cast a reconnaissance spell.
"Magi, cast the reconnaissance spell. Search the chamber and ensure there are no hidden grotesques. Also, deploy a reconnaissance spell in the corridor to check for any lurking grotesques within the pipes. We must not be caught off guard."
She gestured to another group of ten Magi, instructing them to create defensive barriers.
"Prepare the defensive barriers. Do not allow any grotesques to flank us."
Addressing the rest of the Magi squad, she commanded.
"Magi squad, be ready to incinerate any grotesques that cross our path. The others, cast the spell of light to illuminate this chamber."
Finally, she turned her attention to the Magi holding the banner and said, "Prepare the Prayer of War."
The Magi squad responded in unison, "Yes, Priestess, it shall be done!"
I marveled at the Priestess's commanding presence as she efficiently directed the Magi squad. Her elegance and authority were undeniable, and the Magi responded with quick, precise movements, ready to face any battle.
Approaching me, the Priestess spoke with concern in her eyes.
"Grand Pontiff, we must wait for the reconnaissance spell to be completed. We need to navigate this chamber safely, as the grotesques may be planning an ambush."
Nodding in agreement, I observed the Magi squad diligently performing their assigned tasks. Those responsible for the reconnaissance spell raised their staffs, summoning transparent, small white birds that flew into the chamber and corridor, searching for any signs of grotesques.
The Magi tasked with creating the defensive barriers raised their hands and staffs, chanting fervently as runic symbols scattered around us, forming a protective shield. Simultaneously, the Magi assigned to the spell of light chanted hymns, causing runic symbols to dance around their staffs and form a glowing orb of illumination.
One of the Magi approached us and reported,
"Priestess, we are ready to dispatch the birds into the chamber and corridor."
The Priestess nodded, her gaze focused on the task at hand.
"Very well, we shall wait a little longer."
The Magi extended their left hands, and four birds soared into the chamber while one ventured into the corridor, inspecting the hidden recesses where grotesques might be lurking. We waited anxiously, each passing moment filled with tension and anticipation.
After what seemed like an eternity, only one bird returned—the one sent into the corridor. A Magi stepped forward to deliver the report.
"Priestess, the corridor is clear of anomalies, and there are no grotesques hiding in the pipes. However, the path leading to the shortcut shows signs of anomalies. We must tread carefully."
With a determined expression, the Priestess replied, "If we turn back now, we risk losing precious time and the lives of our Templars. The grotesques may trap us and cut off our escape. We have come too far to retreat. The shortcut remains our only viable option."
The Magi nodded in understanding, their faith unwavering.
"By your command, Priestess."
Addressing the Magi, the Priestess gestured toward the banner holder.
"You may begin the Prayer of War."
The Magi nodded and stepped forward, raising his voice in a powerful invocation.
"Oh, blessed Lord, grant us the strength to face a thousand battles. We sing your praises and hymns to the unbelievers. Be our sword and shield, protecting the faith we hold dear. Grant us the grace to discern our enemies and the honor to stand against them. With dignity and pride, we march forward, knowing that only in death there is respite".
As the prayer concluded, particles of gold and red shimmered from the cross on the banner, swirling and dispersing throughout our bodies. I felt a surge of energy, my senses sharpening, and my body growing stronger.
The Priestess looked deeply into my eyes, seeking confirmation.
"Grand Pontiff, do you feel any unusual effects upon your body?"
I responded, feeling the newfound strength coursing through me.
"My body feels lighter, yet stronger, and my mind is more focused than ever before,"
A faint smile graced the Priestess's lips. "That is the power of God—through prayers, weapons, and the strength we receive, we can fight against the grotesques. We are all grateful for the blessings bestowed upon us."
Her eyes flickered with a mix of determination and reverence as she continued.
"But enough talk for now. Let us prioritize your safety, Grand Pontiff. We must escape from this place."
I nodded in agreement, realizing that the time for contemplation had passed. "Let us press forward."
As we ventured deeper into the dark chamber, our footsteps echoed ominously, reminding us of the danger that surrounded us. Fear gripped my heart, and I clutched my sword tightly, knowing that retreat was not an option.
In the depths of my being, I silently pleaded to God, "Please, save us from this plight."