Chapter 72: 72: The Rot!

A red light flashed on and off every few seconds in the cockpit of the heli-jet. Lash groaned in pain as he tried to open his eyes and look around. His entire body was in pain, and Saurian was shouting at him across the link to wake up! Lash slowly unbuckled himself from his seat and tried to slowly look around. The muscles in his neck screamed at him he called upon his Nature Domain to cast a heal...But froze mid cast. His Domain wasn't there anymore? He pulled up his Domains and balked at the information. Nature, Technomancy, Synthesis, Transmutation, Illusion, were all grayed out. While Grave, Rebirth, and Trickery were still active. Lash looked at his skill/power chart and found a lot of it was also grayed out. Did they fly into a rift or something?

The emergency hatch on the side of the heli-jet was open and a ray of the setting sun streamed into the plane. Lash pulled up several messages and prompts he had received while he was out. All he remembered was flying towards New Orleans the plane shuttered and all power was lost. Everyone strapped in and they had come down hard! Lash wasn't terribly worried about his companions, Kory, and Kara alone could survive the fall, and Blue's Scarab would absorb the kinetic damage.

Lash stumbled out of the heli-jet and looked around. They had landed in a ruined part of the city. Knee deep water remained, along with huge devastation across the whole area. The sounds of gunfire cracked off near by, and green energy blasts lite up the immediate area. Lash stumbled over a piece of rock and fell into the water which helped him wake up, but also made him painfully aware that a lot of his bones were cracked.

Congratulations User! You've entered a dynamic event area!

Objective: A door way to the realm of Death has been unsealed by mysterious forces. Find out how it happened, and close the door before the denizens of the Death realm swallow New Orleans!

Bonus Objective: Find out who is responsible for opening the door.

Bonus Objective: Help save civilian lives, mundane and super-natural alike.

Note: Event has been in play for over three days Dream time.

“Daw...” Lash coughed on the word and tried to open his mouth again. “Dawn... Why can't I use my abilities?” Lash whispered softly.

“Hello User! You've entered an area that has been converted into a Death realm. Though you are still on Earth, you are currently experiencing an alternate Dimensional field. Just as you did when visiting the Winter Unseelie Court place of power. Give it time and you'll regain your abilities.” Dawn replied softly.

Once Lash understood 'why' several progression bars, and a percentage meters showed up next to his skills, powers, and magic. Magical Perception optimized and adapted to allow him to see the current of Death energy flow through the air like a current of water. It ebbed and flowed across the whole city like the aurora borealis. He also saw dozens of Reapers attempting to fight off different forces that hadn't gained a physical form. What ever was happening it was happening on several fronts.

With a snap of several of his bones Lash bit back a yell as he felt his Regeneration optimize and adapt to the area. He breathed a sigh of contentment. Lash would often forget how dependent he was on his abilities. One by one his skills/powers started to turn back on. But several of them were tied to his magic. So they were only half as effective. An audible snarl rang out across the area as a human creature with no skin raced towards Lash. Necrotic energy oozed out of the creature, it made it practically dripping with blood pus as it jumped at him. Lash dove to the side as the creature missed him, Lash activated Transformation and about half of his body shifted...Great...

Switch with me! -Saurian shouted across the link. Shape Shift (Saurian) had always been one of Lash's first abilities. So he activated the ability and with in a few seconds stood a ten by twenty foot long carnosaur like monster. Saurian roared at the ghoulish creature and pounced on it. The ghoul seem to rethink its life choices for a brief moment until Saurian ripped it in half. The ghoulish creatures soul essence was absorbed through the Rebirth Domain which was still active.

Saurian let loose a deafening roar to the skies around him, several undead creatures roared back at him. While he heard several other voices cheer, and howl in reply. A fiery red head with a killer body flew over the wrecked city and came to stop in front of Saurian's snout. Kory smiled wide and hugged Saurian.

“You're awake! Blue's Scarab said we had entered an energy field that disrupted your abilities. So we created a perimeter around the crash but we soon realized that the creatures attacking were attempting to pull us further away from you!” Kory said to Lash. Kory continued to wear the transparent suit of armor that Lash had made for her. Which Kory was not very thankful for as she was covered in grime, maggots, and goo from the zombies.

In the movies, books, and comics the heroes always seem to be impeccably clean, well groomed, and full of life. Despite the fact that they have been in a war zone. Lash/Saurian was happy to see that in their world that didn't happen. Saurian nuzzled Kory for a bit which the Warrior Princess didn't say no to. Several dozen roars rang out and creatures with far to many limbs, mouths, and flesh not properly sewn on raced towards them.

Kory took to the sky and shot green star bolt energy down on them as Saurian playing the role of the tank rushed in and tackled the whole group. Bowling ball towards the bowling pins! The monstrosities were either crushed or blow wide open for Kory to shoot from above. With each kill the soul essence of the monstrosities were absorbed into Saurian through Rebirth.

Observant Learner attempting to learn Necromancy Domain.... 1%.....2%.

“Where is Supergirl, and Blue Beetle?” Saurian asked, he slowly connected Kory to the Temporary Pack Bond it felt like reaching across a pool of acid to make the connection.

“I'm not sure! We don't have any communication here. I tried my comms to contact VICI but Blue said the same field that took you out is disrupting communications as well. We are in a dark zone he said... Though I am not sure what that means, since it was day light at the time.” Kory replied, Saurian chuckled a bit at the Princess for not understanding a common phrase of Earth.

Saurian reached into his Grave Domain which was still active and attempted to cast Spiritual Guardian.... All he got was a busy tone. He looked around and saw the dozens of Reapers fighting the ghostly apparitions and understood that no Guardian would come to his rescue currently they had their own worries. He did however send several Soul Heal spell casts at several Reapers that looked hurt. The Grim Reaper look a likes regained their vigor, their torn cloaks, and damaged weapons became clean, well groomed, and repaired. Kory flew over to Saurian, and watched him send blue and green energy to essentially nothing.

“Are you alright?” Kory asked, concern written on her face.

“Yes, just helping some our of allies.” Saurian reached out and placed a gentle claw on Kory's face and for a brief moment she saw what he saw. She yelped in response and watched with wide eyes as another near invisible battle took place around them.

“Warden! The local witches request your presence three miles east of here!” A Grim Reaper he had recently healed screamed at him, then chopped a ghost in half.

“I understand! Thank you!” Saurian said back and began to head in that direction. Kory flying next to him. As they traveled Saurian cast Death Ward on Kory. Though he didn't think she was in any real danger, better safe than sorry.

One by one all of his skills/powers came back. Once they did he saw progress bars appear next to his Domains. Though their progression was noticeably slower. He saw that he got several experience prompts from Adaptation, and Natural Energy Absorption, Energy Manipulation. Seemed his body was attempting to metabolize Necrotic Death Energy.

Saurian ran through the ruined city streets of New Orleans as zombies, ghouls, abominations, monstrosities, and skeletons walked around in a flood like fashion in knee deep putrid water. Creatures slithered and swam through the water like giant leeches. Kory landed on Saurian's back for a ride, she had been flying for several hours and needed a recharge. Saurian barreled through the mass of rotten flesh and bone to head towards the Witches. Though he discovered he had created an undead train that followed after in his wake.

“At least we know they are still alive!” Saurian said to Kory as he pointed out two people with hawk wings flying in the distance.

Hawkman, and Hawkwoman were doing dive bomb attacks on a giant flesh golem that was at least three stories tall. Each swing of their Nth metal paces tore huge swaths of flesh from the golem since the maces had anti-magic properties attached to them. Saurian reached out with his bond, and once again it felt like he was reaching through a pool of acid. Mental resistance experience spiked several times with his Damage Resistance, while Observant Learner had obtained 57% with Necromancy Domain. The Temporary Pack Bond linked up with the two warriors of Thanagar.

What dark magic is this! -Hawkman said across the link as he stuttered in the middle of his dive bomb.

Hawkman! Hawkwoman! It's Wraith! Starfire, Supergirl, and a new recruit named Blue Beetle are in the city with you! -Saurian called across the link.

Aha! Well met Wraith! We've been trying to get message out for days but couldn't get anything past the field! Is the rest of the League on their way? -Hawkwoman called across the link.

I'm afraid not! We were on our way to New Orleans to seek your help with a matter and simply fell into the battle. I fear that the League has no idea this is even happening! -Saurian sent back.

Hello...Ah yes it worked! Hello this is Starfire! Have you seen Supergirl, and Blue Beetle? -Starfire asked. Hawkman took a moment and with his Thanagarian war helmet he scanned the city and pointed out Supergirl, and Blue a few miles from Starfire's position. Once they had a point of reference Saurian reached out with his Telepathy and connected the two.

What the!? **Analyzing new intrusion into our system** -Blue, and the Scarab chatted across the link. Which surprised Saurian that the Scarab could join in the conversation.

Wraith!? Are you alright? Where are you? Is Starfire with you! -Supergirl shouted across the link.

**The Supergirl is confused, we are not with in communication range with the Agent of Calamity** Dude, I think we are using Telepathy? -Blue Beetle replied.

Welcome everyone! When we entered the area my abilities were temporarily taken from me. But I am slowly adapting to the area. Give me a few hours and I'll be able to create a communication hub and we'll get the League here. -Saurian sent across the link.

After that they started to share information about what had happened. Hawkman, and Hawkwoman had been assisting with the rescue and rebuild efforts in the city. They didn't think to call for help given that a lot of people were facing the same issues they were. Then they noticed something strange. Riots, attacks, and murder had started to rise in the city. Then they realized that several of the rioters were...Well zombies! Thanks to Thanagarian history the warriors had a basic understanding of what they were. Then a special forces branch of the UNWS (Wardens) showed up and started to try and quell the violence and destroy the Zombies.

Thanagar uses Arcane Science as their back bone given that their ancient history had a extra dimensional being that educated them. Until their 'God' got to arrogant and demanded to much from the Thanagar's, they revolted and imprisoned the God. During the war between them and their God he had often used reanimated Thanagar warriors. So Zombies were not something special to Hawkman, and Hawkwoman.

Saurian arrived at the FOB (Forward Operating Base) for the local super-natural societies. New Orleans has a rich history of witch craft, and voodoo. Why would it be any different now? Several covens of witches had erected magical barriers and wards. While Voodoo Priests, and Priestess shot out magical energy that zapped the zombies of their strength. They had converted an old cathedral into their base of operation. The Cathedral stood with in the french quarter and looked like it had seen better days. With practitioners stationed in the windows, balconies, and bell towers they flung magic down at the surrounding zombies. The immediate grounds around the church were oddly dry, and showed no sign of corruption.

“Warden! Please come this way we need to cleanse you of the Corruption!” A woman's voice called out from the barrier.

Saurian stomped across the city street filled with water, rotten bodies, and watched in marvel as attack spells were flung out like fire works. He entered the area with Kory still on his back, and he heard the woman sigh audibly. She started to massage her head and smiled. Saurian understood what had happened! He reached across the Telepathic link and called Supergirl, and Blue to their position. With in a few minutes they flew over, given that Kara now had the ability to fly just like her cousin.

“All of you gather up we have to cleanse you of your Corruption!” The same woman called to them. Once they landed a group of witches both men and women channeled their energies into them.

“Muchas gracias a todos” Blue said as he sat down on his ass and rubbed his head.

“Yes thank you! It felt like something was trying to claw its way inside of my head!” Supergirl said as she came over to check on Saurian who nuzzled her in response.

“What is that? I assume that is not normal to this city?” Starfire asked the woman who seem to be in charge.

The woman or the high priestess, Crone, head Witch, Coven Leader, take your pick. Was an older woman in her fifties with long brown hair tied back into a braid, green eyes, healthy tanned skin, though she had a few winkles around her face, and mouth. She seem to smile a lot! She had a combination of black combat gear ontop of a more traditional robe. No staffs, brooms, wands, or pointed hat. Just several charm braclets, necklaces, and eaarings.

“Greetings to you Warden Lash, and your Partner Saurian. I am High Priestess Elsa... Please no jokes. Supergirl, Starfire, and...Blue Beetle of the Justice League. I'm going to cut straight to the point, why are you here?” Elsa asked, her stance was firm and expected a backlash from her attitude.

“We are here because of him. Blue Beetle has an alien technology attached to him. We came to ask Hawkman, and Hawkwoman about the technology. We had no idea any of this was happening. But since we are here can we lend you aid?” Saurian said, his reptilian voice was rumbled from his massive chest as he was still about as big as a carnosaur. Jaime jumped a little as Saurian wrapped his bladed tail around him.

“I see, that takes a weight off my shoulders. Yes we would be more than happy to have your help. To answer your previous question Starfire. No, what you are feeling is the corrupted effect of Death slipping into your mind. If you don't take time to remove the corruption it would eventually drive you insane, then kill you. Eventually converting you into one of the walking dead.” Elsa replied, Kory swallowed audibly and went to stand next to Saurian who wrapped one of his arms around her small frame.

“Ya..Ya... hold on I'll ask. Excuse me... High Priestess Elsa my...Partner wants to know why technology doesn't seem to be working inside the field?” Blue Beetle asked, as the Scarab face on his back let out several indecipherable squeecks and clicks.

“Currently the energies of 'The Black' and 'The Grey' have cast a wide area of effect in the city. This has cut us off from rest of the world. These energies don't blend well with modern day technology. At least for now. We are attempting several work arounds but we don't have any specalist with that sort of talent in our Covens.” Elsa replied. This meant that none of the covens or super-naturals in the city had the Technomancy Domain. Or, if they did they were in the same dilema as Saurian was. They couldn't adapt to the situation yet.

“So, how do we get the Black, and Grey to stop effecting the area?” Supergirl asked, clearly confused about the situation. It was like they were speaking a foreign language but used the same english words.

“There are five points in the city, five 'locks' that need to be controlled and reset at the same time. Currently we control one of those locks, it is located here in the catherdal. It is currently in its reset position that is why we were able to establish a barrier here. We don't know who unlocked the door. This was not an accident, someone organized this.” Elsa replied, she excused herself for a moment when a Warden ran over to give a report to her. This allowed the group to convene for a moment.

“Wraith, what is going on?” Supergirl asked, clearly confused. She like Starfire was still in her combat uniform. It was covered in grim, mud, muck, and other things. Blue's Scarab chittered and clicked on Blue's back.

“Wait! Scarab said its magic...Magic is real!?” Blue all but shouted, and several people near by looked at him as if he was talking crazy.

Starfire, and Supergirl both turned slowly to look at Saurian who continued to lay down on the ground next to them. Saurian could see the gears turning in their heads, he was not entirely surprised with Starfire. She had seen a lot of the universe in her time and was sure to have encountered a few alien races that still practiced magic. But Supergirl was less so. Krypton history was a tangled mess in the comics, especially since Saurian didn't know what dimensional referance Dawn had used.

“I'll make it simple for you. Magic is just a form of science that has yet to be fully explained. The manipulation of cosmic energy to weild, bend, and warp reality around us. Khaji Da, any follow up?” Saurian inquired to the Scarab, who chirped in surprise as Saurian was covered in a film of golden light. Foresight activated briefly when Saurian said the Scarabs name.

“Wait!? The Scarab has a name!?” Blue shouted in response. “Oh!... No he say that is an acurate interupration of 'magic'.” Blue replied, as the Scarab... Khaji Da chirped back.

Elsa soon returned and helped Saurian give a basic explanation of what magic was to the three heroes. But they couldn't spend to long explaining. Hawkman, and Hawkwoman soon flew over from their attack on the Flesh Golem and landed next to them to get cleansed of the corruption. They greeted each other and introduced themselves. Elsa excused herself and went back to organizing the local super-naturals, and Wardens.

“I'm afraid I dont recognize the technology of the suit you wear Blue Beetle.” Hawkwoman said to them. She crouched behind Blue Beetle as she ran a hand up along the Scarab who chirped at her in response.

Hawkman aka Carter Hall was 6'1” with blue eyes, brown hair, who wore plate male garb across his whole body, and hawk helmet. With an Nth metal belt that helped off set his total gravity, along with his strength, durablity, healing factor. He had two large wings attached to his back that helped him fly around. While Hawkwoman aka Shiera Hall was 5'4” with brown eyes, and auburn hair that was tied back up, she wore full plate male along with a Nth metal belt like her husband. They both held Nth metal battle maces, and were both incredibly seductive in their full armor. Unlike the comics and movies, Hawkwoman was dressed in full combat gear she looked like a lady angelic knight with her wings behind her. But one would notice that they both had Eygptian God Horus style to them.

“Have you ever heard of The Reach?” Saurian asked, he currently laid down next to every one due to massive size. He looked like a giant iguana sun bathing, with the group next to him, and his tail wrapped around the group.

“We have, yes! The Scarab is from them?” Hawkman said with visible tension in his body. The Scarab chirped and Blue translated. Technically they could have spoken across the pack bond, but when ever they were face to face most people spoke out loud.

“Khaji Da has no knowledge of, The Reach. Who are they? Did they make the Scarab?” Blue asked. He stayed still even with Hawkwoman behind him.

“The Reach are a force of inter galactic conquers that pose as peaceful traders. They have to be invited to a planet before they can 'invade' but once they arrive both the Green Lanterns, and any Thanagarian warriors must leave that planet.” Hawkwoman replied, she continued to run her hands over the scarab before she stood up and joined her husband.

“Hold on a moment everyone, can I ask all of you to guard me for a moment. I have to speak to my Patron about something.” Saurian rose to his feet, then knelt down and tried to take on the look of some one praying. It was of course a disguise but he wanted to try it. He used Cosmic Awareness on The Reach.

Cosmic Awareness has leveled up! It now only takes 92% of your total energy to use!

The Reach story information has been partially unlocked. Beware! That using this information may invite disaster of a self made prophecy!

“Thousands of years ago, The Reach seeded different worlds with Scarabs of a variety of colors. These Scarabs were meant to be advanced agents of The Reach. Each generation one would find a Scarab hero to help spread the word of The Reach and place them in a positive light. Once The Reach arrived on Earth the Scarab hero would proclaim them peaceful traders and encourage the planet to invite them. However, the magic practitioners of Ancient Egypt found the Scarab and discovered its malevolent intentions. They used magic to cut off the umbilical cord between the Scarab, and The Reach. Allowing the Scarab to become its own agent, granting it freedom. Now the Scarab is free to choose its partners, and is granted free will!” Saurian said the entire story in one whole breath and collapsed onto the ground. The golden light that swallowed him faded from sight. Everyone including the super-natural society members near by looked at him in shock. Especially after Saurian lost consciousnesses.

Lash gently pushed against the link to try and wake Saurian up. The giant reptile refused to respond and just curled up more. He was tired, and enjoyed sprawling out across the ground bathing in the light of the moon. He smelled several people near him, including Starfire, and Supergirl or were both sitting next to him with their backs against him. He heard a few shouts, and the flare of magic in the air.

“Oie! I'm a right bastard I am! Names John Constantine. Oh bloody hell! What happened to the big ass liza! Gah! Jesus Christ Zee what gives!” Said a loud mouth...

“What happened to him?” A familiar voice of Zatanna spoke as she came to run her hand across Saurian's cheek.

“He was covered in a golden light and told the entire past of Blue Beetles Scarab.” Supergirl replied to Zatanna.

“Oie! Golden Light! Did he receive a prophecy from his Patron!? Jesus Christ and he decided to do this in the middle of a battle field!” John's voice was harsh on Saurians ears. Saurian felt a reassuring hand under his eyes.

“His breathing is steady, and his energy is growing. I'm sure he'll be fine. Once he wakes up we'll be sure to move into action.” Said Wonder Woman, who began to run her fingers over his scales. Saurian stirred and nuzzled into her hands. Wonder Woman laughed softly and kissed his nose.

“Time to wake up Wraith. We have work to do.” Wonder Woman said softly.

Saurian slowly opened up his four reptilian eyes. Yes four, Lash's transformed state was not the only one that went through that change. Wonder Woman stood in front of him in light weight battle gear. A half face spartan helmet, breast plate, leather skirt, plate greaves, plate gauntlets, sword, lasso, and shield. Taking on the blue, red, and white color themes. The armor was tailored to fit her so she naturally looked amazing in it. The armor showed off her curves, and had magic pulsating across it. Saurian turned his head to see Zatanna, and Constantine.

Zatanna had thigh high leather boots on, with black leather pants, a white corset that exposed far to much cleavage, black forearm gloves, and a half suit jacket. Her raven black hair was tied back, as she took off her top hat and bowed from her waist giving Saurian a great view of her bursting chest. John stood next to her in his stereotypical rain coat, local pawn shop suit pants, white shirt, and suit jacket and a cigarette in his mouth. John was six foot even with blue eyes, and blond hair that was cut short and slicked back. Saurian slowly moved to nuzzle Zatanna with his snout who laughed and hugged him in return.

“Been a while, Saurian! I'm happy to see you too!” Zatanna said with a smile and kissed his cheek.

“What? No love for the third wheel?” John said with an eye roll. Then soon stood perfectly still and blinked several times as Saurian had licked his entire face with his massive forked tongue. “That was disgusting” John said as he began to clean his face off.

Saurian reached out and connected everyone with the Temporary Pack Bond, even John was considered friendly. Once every one grew use to sensing every ones thoughts, Saurian took a moment to nuzzle John again as the 'wanker' had in some way actually enjoyed the giant tongue. Not many knew this about Constantine but the man was actualy Bi-sexual. Zatanna giggled and covered her mouth as she watched John figure out that every one knew what he was feeling.

“OH FUCK OFF ALL OF YOU!” John screamed and stepped away to lite up another cigarette.

“How long have I been out?” Saurian asked.

“Only a few hours. For some reason communications started to work in the safe area, specifically around you.” Starfire said with a smirk. Saurian took a moment and saw that all of his Domains were back.

“Alright sit tight let me make something real quick.” Saurian walked over to a clearing and created a broad range communication receiver and broad cast device. The thing grew up from the ground like a tree, the roots spread out to stabilize it self, while the bark was partially metallic. The branches extended out and produced dishes, and antennae.

“There we go! I have cell phone service! Right you are, ye giant iguana! Now make a tele, and lets watch the game!” John gave a slow golf clap to Saurian who huffed at him.

Just like that entire area had access to the outside. The Wardens had reached out to several super-natural societies and they sent messages through the magical grape vine. The reason that Wonder Woman, Zatanna, and John all showed up. Saurian saw several Amazons getting blessed by the local witches and started to head out into the city to fight the infestation.

Observant Learner has finished learning Necromancy. Necromancy has been absorbed by the Grave Domain.

The Grave Domain has gained a Sub-Domain, Necromancy: The manipulation of the dead, death, death energy, mind, body, and soul.

Effects: You can now metabolize Necrotic energy with no ill effects, Spells contained with in the Grave/Necrotic Domain takes less energy to cast, and are more powerful.

Comment: The Black see's you now, they find you....Intriguing.

You are reading story Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics at novel35.com

“Warden, are you ready to move out?” High Priestess Elsa returned, she looked exhausted and desperately needed a bath. Saurian did a mass area of effect cast of Sooth, Nature's Supplement, Immaculate, and Nature's Kiss on the entire FOB. Because of the situation no one melted into an orgasmic puddle of pleasure. Though many people did groan in satisfaction.

“That is fucking wonderful, thank you Warden. Come this way we have the locations to the other four locks.” Elsa led the team over to a table that contained a map of the city.

The other four locks were spread out among several other churches, cemeteries, and one specific one was at the shipyard. If you drew a line to connect them all it would make a pentagram. Elsa explained that each lock was guarded by a Revenant that would have to die before the lock could come under control. She showed us a magical image of what each lock looked like and how to reset it. Every minute, of every hour, of every day the locks remained open more and more disturbing things started to appear. This also was not only happening in the city. Several other locations spread out across the world with doors to The Black realm had been opened. So the sooner they closed this door the faster they could consolidate their forces and move on.

“Well that is all well and good then, love. But who here is capable of banishing a Revenant? Because if we don't, it will just get back up.” Constantine said, Elsa looked at John then looked at Saurian who nodded.

“Well aren't you fancy.” John played with his lighter and looked around the table.

“So, how are we getting there?” John asked....

Saurian used Size Alteration and cast Enlarge on himself and grew to be about thirty feet tall, and sixty feet long. He knelt down and everyone who needed a ride climbed on top of him. Which was John, Zatanna opted to ride along, Starfire still needed time to absorb more energy. Saurian had cast Daylight and given her a tiny ball of sunlight to absorb, then about two dozen Amazons, witches, and Wardens jumped aboard the Saurian train. Saurian linked everyone up and left the FOB and entered the zombie infested city.

With the use of Adaptation Saurian easily moved through the city on all fours making the journey slow but feasible. He moved at about 15-25 mph through the flooded city. Nearly all of the mundane civilians in the city had been evacuated days ago. So all the people they saw were part of the super-natural communities, or the enemy. While everyone that could fly flew ahead to the next lock location.

“Well isn't it a comfort to know that if you ever need a job you can always be public transportation!” Constantine said, as he laughed at his own joke but shivered when he saw the Amazons glare at him.

“John, Lash and Saurian have been granted the title of Brother to the Amazons. So you may want to keep your insults to yourself.” Zatanna said as she elbowed him in the size. John rubbed his side and tried his best to ignore the glares coming from the super model warriors.

After about an hour they came to the next church just in time to see Blue Beetle fly over head and shoot his white noise cannon at Cathulu HP love craft creature, that was at least three stories tall. Its lower half was a giant octopus, with its upper half with dozens of arms that came from a variety of people, and animals. With a giant stag head? It let out a squelching screech the bodies on the ground shuddered and got back up. Flesh renewed, and bones reconnected.

Saurian roared in challenge and used Intimidating Shout, and Rallying Call. The shock wave rolled through the church grounds. The re animated corpses froze for ten seconds, and all of their flyers got ten percent of their energy back. The Amazons cheered and jumped off of Saurian and joined the fray. Zatanna created a shield of energy that her and John jumped onto and flew away. Starfire having absorbed the Daylight glob flew into the air and started to shoot star bolts. The Wardens that remained pulled their cloaks off to reveal a pack of were-wolves! They jumped off and tore into the zombies. The Witches cast levitation and flew off into the fray casting spells, and spell wards.

Wonder Woman yelled and dove straight towards the Revenant and sliced through its tentacles with her God-Slayer sword. The creature roared in deviance but couldn't retaliate as the Hawks flew down and bashed its skull with their maces. Supergirl took a flank and decimated a pack of ghouls, while Blue turned his arms into blades and fought against the legion of skeleton soldiers and warriors. Saurian bound across the church grounds and collided with the Revenant.

The giant monstrosity Revenant screamed as it was pushed into the church, the entire building caved in on itself. But Saurian pushed it through the whole building and out the other end! Rock, debris, and rotten flesh went flying through the area. The stag head let out a screeching bellow! Saurian laced his claws with Judgment and tore through the creature!

With Manifestation dozens of Saurus Warriors materialized from nothingness and started to pick through the destroyed church. With a roar and a crash Saurian was sent flying through the air and he crashed into the street near by. A mini earthquake went through the area. Wonder Woman shouted 'Attack!' The Hawks flew down and dodged the tentacles as they attempted to swat them from the sky. A golden lasso wrapped around the monstrosity and restrained it. It bellowed another scream as more and more undead creatures responded to the call.

A crimson red pentagram appeared behind a man with a rain coat. He flicked his lighter with a smirk and pointed at the Revenant. Zatanna yelled for everyone to get clear as a giant hellfire napalm erupted from the pentagram and swallowed the Revenant. It screamed in mass panic and pain as the hellfire consumed its flesh and soul. That was one way to banish a Revenant.

“I don't suppose you could cast that again?” Wonder Woman said as she landed next to John.

“Oh of course your majesty! Just need a few minutes to recharge!...No, that will be the last time I do that today.” John said with a smirk, Wonder Woman pegged him with a glare and went to rejoin the Amazons, witches, and Wardens.

Saurian picked himself and went to the church to help excavate the ruined church. In hindsight he should not have destroyed it in the battle. The Lock was located beneath the altar, it was a six feet tall three feet wide cylinder with wailing spirit faces carved into it. It had a combination lock on its top that a Witch flew down and started to set up and reset.

Two locks down, but now they had to secure the area. A witch shot a spell flare into the air to announce their victory. But with every lock obtained there forces would spread thinner and thinner. Saurian went to the front of the ruined church and began to construct something. He cast Alteration, Compression Transformation, Virtual Intelligence, Unburden, Fabrication, Military Special Operations, and Machine Control.

A control node was created, the node looked like a metallic four sided pyramid that was about ten feet wide, and ten feet tall. Each side was pure obsidian with spell script inscribed into it. Each corner of the pyramid shout out a tendril that buried itself into the ground. From the burrowed point a twin Vulcan cannon turret grew from the ground to be just as tall as the pyramid. The turrets had full rotation and could cover multiple fields of fire. One by one the turrets grew from the ground, laser sights activated. Before anyone could ask what he had done the sound of the turrets spun up and they started to shred any undead creature that was near with 20 mm enchanted rounds.

“WOW, that is fucking loud!” Constantine shouted over the roar of the cannons.

Saurian used Manifestation and created a single Saurus Veteran to over see ten Saurus Warriors. They would remain in the immediate area and help provide safety and cover for any one looking for it. The quad turret pyramid would continue to shred any creatures that came near. Saurian picked up everyone that was leaving and they left for the next lock location.

The next lock posed a bit of an issue, or rather the Revenant in charge of it. Everyone got off of Saurian and he altered his size to be eight by sixteen. All of their air born people came down from the sky after Supergirl took a necrotic arrow through her mid section. They were dealing with an archer! Thanks to his new Sub Domain Saurian pulled the Necrotic arrow out and healed the wound with no side effects. The location of the lock was in the high rise area of New Orleans, it was located inside of an old underground private bar and club. As far as they could tell the Revenant killed everything alive that came through its area.

“Which building is it?” Blue asked as he peeked around the edge of the building they hide behind then quickly pulled his head back at Khaji Da's insistence as a putrid green arrow stuck out of the wall just where Blue's head had been.

“Christ! That thing has us dead to rights it does. Its the fifteen story tall white building with stained glass windows. We have to get into the basement with out being seen.” John said as he played with his lighter everyone was starting to learn it was a nervouse tick.

“No, we need to kill the Revenant as well. Even if we reset the lock the Revenant can just capture it again.” Zatanna said, she raised her arms and said an incantation backwards. Several arcane eyes flew out and started to look around. With in ten seconds they had all been shot down.

“The archer is sitting ontop of the building we need to get into. Since its undead we'll assume it has a sense life ability. So invisiblity is out.” Wonder Woman said, she looked over everyone to ensure they were not injured.

“What about flooding its sight with life?” Saurian suggested, every one looked at him waiting for him to continue. Saurian created a will o wisp of natural energy, then another, and another.

“If we come at them from all angles it will decrease their chances. But this plan is still dangerous.” Starfire explained her point of view. Saurian did a mass cast of Death Ward and looked at everyone.

From behind cover suddenly eighty saurus warriors sprinted out and ran in all directions. Then hundreds of will o wisps of natural energy flew out. The Amazons, were-wolf Wardens, and Witchs ran in all directions as the air born Leagures took to the skies and all went straight towards the sniper. Necrotic arrow, after arrow was shot in quick succession towards every living thing the sniper could find. With the use of Gravity Stride the saurus warriors sprinted up the building as fast as they could go. All while this was happening Saurian was using Earth Swim to move through the ground into the underground club.

The club was pitch black, full of water, and the smell of rotten flesh. Saurian pulled himself out from the nearby wall and sent a Grave pulse through the area. Nothing living or dead was in the club. He silently moved towards the back towards the cellar. It was flooded, naturally! He dove down into the water and swam through it towards the back. There the same ghostly cylinder was sticking out of a wall. Necrotic energy from The black was oozing out of it. Saurian felt his Saurus Warrior Manifestations wink out of existence as they were shot one by one. The whole building shook, and an inhuman screech rang out.

Got him! -Starfire called out across the line.

Me and Zee will start banishing him get the lock reset. -Constantine said over the line.

Saurian's warriors had seen the witch reset the last lock, so since they saw it. He saw it. He started to rotate the mechanisms back and forth until at last the lock clicked and the cylinder moved back into the wall. It stayed there but The Black energy continued to ooze out of it. They needed to get them all reset. He swam back up into the club and emerged to find the were-wolves jump in surprise as he came up out of the water.

“Sorry...The lock is reset.” Saurian told them. He created another Veteran to manage ten warriors. They would stay in the club and protect the lock.

“Wraith could I ask for some healing?” Hawkman said with a hiss of pain. He had three arrows sticking out of him, all between spaces in his plate armor. Wow that Archer was incredibly talented.

“What did the Revenant look like?” Saurian asked as he started to pull the arrows out one by one.

“It looked like a up right goat with three heads, and four arms. The upper arms shot the bow, while the lower arms had swords in hand. Its tail was forked and each tip was a snake.” Hawkman said as he bit back a scream as Saurian pulled the last arrow out. Hawkwoman landed near by and came to help her husband stand, she looked perfectly fine!

“You the only one that got hit?” Saurian asked, and Hawkwoman laughed at her husband.

“Yes...I thought I'd be fine.” Hawkman said as Saurian cast Unburden to clean the Necrotic energy out. Then cast Sooth, Nature's Supplement, and used the Necromancy Domain passive to close the wound.

“Brother Saurian! We have a horde of undead incoming to our position. May we ask for another hail of bullets?” An amazon warrior walked over with a smile on her face.

Saurian clapped Hawkman on the shoulder then moved to create another metal pyramid with four shredder turrets. The pyramid drilled itself into place and the tendrils grew and set it self up. The turrets partially grew, and built themselves up. From inception, to construction, to live firing took all of ten minutes. They gather up and headed off towards the next lock which was located inside of a cemetary. Great....

Along the way to the graveyard they got word that one of the other cities doors had been sealed. Atlantis had shown up with its mystical forces and stormed the coastal city. So only four cities including theirs still had death doors open. The ocean was a pretty intresting place right, a lot of creatures from long forgotten past were starting rise in the water. Saurian couldn't help but think about a certain corrupt undead they had met at Poseidon's temple weeks ago.

The next Revenant was both incredibly simple and incredibly difficult. The whole immediate area around the graveyard was filled to the brim with thousands of dead things. Flesh golems, wraiths, specters, ghosts, banshee's, death knights, and a very pissed off Elder Lich. The lich was the Revenant. Everyone stepped off of Saurian and he just barreled his way through the mass armies of the dead. The ground troops followed in his wake.

Wonder Woman created a phalanx with her sisters and the waded into the field like a mobil blender. Cut! Stab! Push! Move forward, repeat! The were-wolves howled to the moon and grew several sizes larger and jumped into the fray like a fox in a hen house. The Witches took a slower approach and walked behind everyone casting a helpful spell, ward, and boon here and there. Zatanna, and Constantine stay with the witches and did the same.

Supergirl, Starfire, Blue Beetle, Hawkman, and Hawkwoman flew straight towards the Elder Lich and started to attack it. Blue created a sonic cannon cracked the bones of the lich before it screamed and flew necrotic fire at Blue who had to fly away becaus the fire balls began to chase him. Supergirl tackled the Lich and began to crack its skull with her fists only to be knocked aside by a death knight that came to rescue its master. Starfire shot green energy blasts at the death knight as she flew to the rescue of Supergirl. But out of all of them! Hawkman, and Hawkwoman struck with their maces as the Lich screamed in absolute terror. The Nth metal maces distrupted the magical energy that kept it together. CRACK! Its shoulder caved in and it dropped its staff.

With a wave of its hand hundreds of lesser zombies rose from the ground only to turn to ash as Saurian cast a AOE Judgment on the whole graveyard as he had rushed through the walls. As always for a brief moment something ancient and powerful slipped him on like a glove. A Giant grim reaper appeared above the cemetary with scyth in hand, it swung the blade and every single creature in the immediate area dropped! The Elder Lich who remained screamed in panic and attempted to throw necrotic fire at Saurian who was momentarily frozen in place.

Wonder Woman landed in front of Saurian and held her shield. The fire blasted across her shield and was deflected in time. The Hawks dove once more and bashed the Elder Lich into dust, it screamed and wailed in agony with each swing until its soul fire was extinguished from its skull. No one had to do a thing as a Grim Reaper flew down and collected the Lich's remains so it couldn't regenerate. Hazah!

“That was dangerous Sauring! Why did you do that?” Wonder Woman said, she was clearly un happy that he had put himself at risk.

“I trusted that my team had my back.” Saurian's nonchalant reply made Wonder Woman glare at him, but she nodded all the same.

Saurian curled up next to a giant crypt in the massive cemetary that New Orleans is famous for. The mass AOE Judgment he had cast took a great deal of energy out of him. Wonder Woman had been right that was dangerous to do in the middle of a fight. But it did remove the surrounding undead in one large swath. Starfire landed next to him and walked over to hug him, she burried her face into his neck and mumbled.

“Can we just sleep for a few days after this is all over?” Starfire said to him, Saurian curled his tail around her and chuckled in response.

“We'll see...” Saurian replied.

With the help of Meditation Saurian regain his energy quickly, as always he used Manifestation to create a Veteran, and ten warriors to patrol the immediate area. He also created the pyramid shredder quad turrets around the massive crypt once the lock had been reset. One more to go! Everyone was clearly exhausted, it was The Black's influence over them, normaly a few hours of hard battle would just be a warm up for most of them. But they could feel it rotting their flesh, and their minds. They needed to finish this quickly.

The last lock was located at the pier. More specifically it was a pier used by ghost ships to seek passage to the realm of the dead. This lock was the focus point for the whole door. In other words this was the door handle to seek passage to the realm. Along the way they didn't meet a single undead creature, being, or spirit. Until the reached the pier, there sitting ontop the lock was a woman. This woman was 5'9” with pitch ink black skin, white hair, and brown eyes. She was completely naked, and revealed a voluptuous figure. The woman sat with her legs crossed, leaning back with her hands resting behind her.

“Hello everyone! Have you been enjoying the festival of Rot?” The womans voice was seductive, sweet, and whispered delightful idea's into ones mind. Wonder Woman pointed God-Slayer at the woman.

“Who are you?” Wonder Woman asked, the woman with pitch ink black skin watched Wonder Woman or more specifically the sword.

“I am the Guardian of The Black.” The Guardian said with a smile. Her title sent chills down every super-natural inclined individual in the area. Guardians of the respective colors were terrifying existences that were on par with the old Gods. Wonder Woman to her credit didn't back down, but she did widen her stance to prepare for combat.

The Guardian nodded at the super-naturals in the area with a satisfied smirk. She looked at each and everyone of them and settled on Saurian. She jumped off the lock, her naked breasts bounced with the movement. She casually, and seductivly moved towards Saurian. He responded in kind and moved towards her though once they got closer he took a knee and bowed his head in respect.

“The High Council of the Rot are talking about you...The Green, The Metal, and now The Black. You are tied to all three! Interesting.... Well we can talk about that later. You should reset the lock now.” The Guardian said with a smile as she gestured towards the lock, which surprised everyone.

“Aren't you going to stop us?” Supergirl asked the obvious.

“Nope! The High Council of the Rot wants to make it clear that this was not their play. Because with out life the Rot can't exist. We apologies for the denizens of our realm that escaped into your world. It was not intentional, they got a little excited. If we are being honest, I normally spend my days in tropical islands soaking up the sun, and drinking mai tais!” The Guardian said, she spun around on her heels then stopped after a few twirls. She almost fell over until Saurian reached out and caught her. She grinned up at him and winked.

“Thanks big guy!” The Guardian said as she blew him a kiss and stood up straight.

“You are welcome, Abigail.” Saurian said softly, as Foresight activated briefly. Abigail whirled around and looked at Saurian in shock.

“Well isn't that interesting!” Abigail, the Guardian of Rot said. She popped her hip to one side and looked at Saurian with an apprasing eye.

The witches reset the lock. With every lock now reset the cylinders slid back down. Necrotic energy shot out of each lock, and flew towards eachother making a pentagram that twisted in on itself. Then with an audible click the necrotic green energy in the air slowly faded from sight. The Rots influence slowly faded afrom the city. One by one the creatures that remained slowly came to a stop and fell into pieces. The day was theirs!

As the influence of the Rot left the immediate area. The pitch ink black skin faded from Abigail. What was left was a beautiful woman wearing thre inch high heels, red skin tight pants, and a black tupe top. She had silver platnium hair, brown eyes, and a health glow to her skin. She raised her arms up into the air and took a breath in.

“Wait...Did we win?” Blue Beetle asked, really confused.

“Yes, we won Blue.” Wonder Woman replied.

“Great! Can I go home now?” Blue Beetle asked.

Abigail didn't stick around, she handed Saurian a piece of paper with her contact info and disapeared in a flash of smoke, leaving behind the smell of the harvest. The knee deep water in the city started to evaporate at a visible rate. It seemed the water was part of the influence from the Rot. Saurian snapped his claws and one by one each of the pyramid quad shredder turrets burst into particles, as did his manifested warriors and veterans, along with his telecomunication tower.

VICI was able to establish contact with them at last! As the field went down, one by one things started to turn back on. Turns out that since VICI is a creation from Arcane Science she couldn't establish contact through the spell shield that was over the city. Things to change for the future. They all headed back to the main FOB and reported into High Prietess Elsa who was shocked to hear about the guardian of the blacks apperance. One by one they got reports of her showing up at the other door ways and helping the teams shut the doors. Saurian moved to the first lock they had secured in the Cathedral and used Retrocognition and rewind the perception of time till he found what he was looking for. A few dozen shadows moved into the room, they had the look of Atlantean gear. Then Saurian recognized one of them. Melina.... The corrupted living dead.

“Shit... Looks like she still had a part to play in the grand scheme of things.” Saurian said, he showed the scene to Elsa and the Wardens. This had happened minutes after the tidal wave had hit, right when everything was in total chaos.

Congratulations User! You've completeled the Dynamic Event!

Objective: A door way to the realm of Death has been unsealed by mysterious forces. Find out how it happened, and close the door before the denizens of the Death realm swallow New Orleans! Complete [+]

Bonus Objective: Find out who is responsible for opening the door. Complete [+]

Bonus Objective: Help save civilian lives, mundane and super-natural alike. Complete [+]

Total event time: Four days

Reward: Ten DP.

Comment: You may not have started the fight, but you did finish it!

“So, ummm...Can I get a ride home?” Blue Beetle walked over, he sheepishly looked down at the ground waiting for a reply. Saurian looked at Blue and grinned. The giant monster with a large smile made Blue shiver.

===============================================================

***The Reyes House***

Alberto Reyes was home from work, he worked at a auto garage which he owned. He had a small crew, with a local business that did well for itself. He sat down with his daughter Milagro Reyes at the dinner table helping her with her homework. Bianca Reyes was in the kitchen cooking dinner. It was a peaceful moment with the family that was only missing their son, Jaime. A knock at the door broke the atmosphere as Alberto got up to answer it.

He came back a moment later with a package addressed to the Reyes family. To open immediatly upon delivery. Alberto opened the box and inside was a brand new Wayne Tech holographic smart phone!? It was assigned to Jaime. A note on the phone said to turn it on and place in the middle of their living room. The family expected a message from their missing son quickly complied. When they turned it on and stepped back something entirely different happened.

A flash of blue light flooded the whole room! A being made of energy with ones and zeros appeared in the living room. The lines of code slowly got more and more complicated and complex until it spit out a man wearing a blue bug outfit. The man was on his knees swearing up a storm in spanish. The man sounded a lot like their son.

“Jaime?” Alberto asked wide eyed.

“Dad! Mom! Milagro! I can explain!” Jaime said as he tried to not vomit.

“As promised he was returned with in the week! Have a lovely day Reyes family!” A projection of Wraith appeared from the holographic phone. He waved and closed the phone line.

“Big Brother! What are you wearing!?” Milagro asked, stars in her eyes.

“Ummmmm.......” Blue Beetle said.

You can find story with these keywords: Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics, Read Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics, Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics novel, Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics book, Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics story, Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics full, Dream Engine: Beta Tester…. D.C. Comics Latest Chapter