Deep within the water's edge where ghostly dreams of essence meet. The tides lift high the mystic dreams to bring about a realm of vibrant illusions. Will you wake with a clearer head? Or be swept deep into slumber's cold embrace. A great power looms over the reflection of the Moon, its rays glowing brightly. A reflection of its deep endless well of aura, deeper than the Sun's intense eyes. The Dark water calls upon the dreamers to enter the realm of ancient echoes.
"Enter." Words were spoken by an elegant man. His legs sat crossed on a high perched chair of stone. Far below him was a mile of stairs, spiraling down his tower to the surface of an endless ocean. The Moon hung low, nearly touchable by sight, and protrusions of ancient statues and symbolic pillars scattered the water going for many miles in all directions around the tower. Rising from the ocean were descendants from all over the lands. They awoke abruptly to find themselves resting on the surface of the water like a gentle carpet floor. Rising to their feet the sight of the moon and tower before them they knew not how they got here, why they were here, or who accompanied them.
"Welcome." Said a voice, booming, yet elegant. From high atop the tower, he spoke to them all. "To the Dream World of Ancients. You've all recently fallen into a slumber. Now your soul visits me. But for what purpose? All that is here is my tower. Climb it, if you must."
It was not long that a few descendants began to observe the staircase of the tower. It had no means to hold on to keep one from falling. But the assurance of this being a dream made many brave enough to gently ascend. Forming a small line. It was about a quarter way that things began to change. The tower began to shake, making footing hard for those on the stairs. Some could not make it and fell off, some not to get up again. Those who managed to hold on would have to witness dark, winged beings, crawling from holes in the tower, wielding scythes, and descending to meet those below.
"Nightmarish Gaunts." The voice began from high above. "Only those worthy will be able to ascend any further." These Nightmarish Gaunts began to strike those who attempted to rise higher, some descendants using what abilities they had to take out one or two, but being forced off of the stairs by doing so.
It was not long until only a handful remained. Observing the tower and the monsters protecting it. Would they continue to ascend? Or search for other secrets in this Dream World.
Random NPC Sheets | Ascension (ascensionrpg.com)
(Nightmare Gaunts)