Karnak, Monarch of Death

Waraine’s serpent staff glowed blood-red as he chanted, "Flowing blood, become darkness and rain down your curse!"

Black clouds billowed into the sky and engulfed the space above Karnak’s head. A moment later, pitch-dark rain began to pour, a deluge soaking the earth and splashing across the plaza floor. Karnak’s expression hardened as he unfurled a mana shield to block the rain.

As expected, this thing is more troublesome than it looks.

It was just like holding an umbrella in the rain. No matter how well you positioned it, you couldn’t keep yourself entirely dry. Like a drizzle slowly soaking through clothes, this necromancy showered down tiny, insidious curses to gradually erode the soul. Ironically, it was a technique Karnak himself had often favored in his prime.

It worked great when I used it... but when you’re on the receiving end, it’s just annoying.

Dispelling it was still no easy task, but at least he could endure it. He maintained his defense and gradually retreated, preparing for his next move.

First, he put on a suitably surprised expression. "A remarkable technique."

Then, with a tone of genuine admiration, he asked, "Is this another necromantic art bestowed by Tesranach?"

What believer wouldn’t beam with pride when their enemy acknowledged the glory of their god?

Sure enough, Waraine puffed out his chest and shouted, "Now you understand the profound wisdom our lord has bestowed upon us!"

"Fascinating."

Karnak had once faced an entity presumed to be Tesranach. The said entity resided in the void beyond space and time. They had fused with the authority of Astra Shunaph that Karnak had cast away, proclaiming themselves as Tesranach. Had that being made contact with the cultists here?