The Necromancer

Who is the necromancer?

On EverQuest Project 1999's Green server deep in the Nektulos forest, there resides a red-eyed Dark Elf necromancer named Lokaius. Citizens of nearby Neriak might describe Lokaius as having unconventional beliefs regarding Hate. Some might describe these beliefs as controversial, but good for conversation. Though mostly secretive, these tenets of Hate are something he is occasionally willing to share when coaxed enough by wine while gazing out of the underwater windows of the Blind Fish tavern.

Yet, Lokaius' true haven lies not within the walls of Neriak, but in the shadowy depths of the forest. It was here, amidst the rain-soaked timbers, that he stumbled upon something extraordinary.

While carrying out menial tasks for Noxhil V`Sek, Lokaius came across a large tree with roots that snaked into the earth like the fingers of a dead god. It was here that a black wolf lept from the fog and viciously bit him. With his dagger and a few incantations of life tap, the wolf was quickly felled. Lokaius was shocked by the moment that the beast’s life force was released from its mortal vessel, for he sensed the life force of the animal in a way that sight or sound cannot describe. The force drifted down just behind him and to the base of the tree. Between those massive roots, hidden and almost forgotten by time, was a cellar-like stone door. For one who sought to manipulate the powers of life and death, experiencing this somehow tangible movement of the very essence of life was all at once profound, exhilarating, and intriguing.

Compelled to investigate further he discovered the door was protected by a peculiar lock. The contraption looked simple and elegant, but where one might expect a keyhole was instead an arcane symbol. The metal work of the hinges were part of the lock, which surprisingly appeared in an unlocked position. Pulling on the door revealed that it was also locked from the inside. It did give way slightly, and the sound of a chain pulling taut against the back of the stone suggested that someone had secured it from the inside.

The implications were clear: whoever or whatever was behind that door either never left or had another way out. Dark Elf vision is unhindered by darkness, and Lokaius could glimpse the chain through the slim crack afforded by its slack. He dropped the weight of the door back in place and slowly as if to be quiet about it, the locking mechanism engaged on its own, sealing the door.

Lokaius knew a rogue who may enjoy the challenge of this puzzle, but knowledge is power, and this was now his secret to hold. Perhaps a metal file would be the answer to the chain, and he had a good clue about how the arcane lock would open. Sensing his bearings, he noted his location and returned to Neriak.

The story of the necromancer will continue.
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