Owner	Pose
Havok	The desert, somewhere in North Africa. Mid-day and extremely hot. But it's a dry heat. A collection of white land rovers and a few trucks are seen surrounding an archeological dig site. In recent weeks the dunes have shifted and exposed an ancient tomb that has yet to be raided. Sir Arthur Higgenbottom, archeologist from England has been tasked to excavate the tomb for the local government. His team, consisting of 75 employees and volunteers have laid seige to the location with their spanners, brushes, and vacuum drills. They are scattered all around the exterior aspects of the tomb (which is like a shrine) and some are within the darkness of the mosoleum like structure. There are steps that descend into the darkness (albeit illuminated by electric lights). The steps descend down to approximately 30 feet beneath the surface and there is where we find the lead archeologist along with his trusty staff. Within that group is Alex Summers who is on site as a geologist employee who is there to discern whether or not the site is structurally safe or not. They all stand near a stone doorway that houses a solid stone door which they are having an issue getting through. It's beyond the door that their prize awaits. An unknown tomb of amazing historical significance.
Artemis	They aren't the ONLY ones in this particular part of North Africa searching for knowledge. The approach of a lone visitor may go unremarked, but the whinny of the horse announces them all the same. It announces Her, to be more precise. Artemis is following up on a research lead from Stephen Strange's library. And she looks more than a bit annoyed as she approaches the dig site. The tall woman is swathed in white against the heat, a longbow and broadsword prominent upon the saddlebrow. "What is this?" she demands, even before dismounting.
Havok	Various workers see and are curious about Artemis' approach. Most return to their work brushing off rocks and sifting through ancient stuff. However a woman, mid to late 30s, wearing khaki shorts and top with a wide brim hat approaches. "Welcome. I'm Elizabeth Huxtable." Her accent is clearly English in origin. Her black hair and dark eyes imply she has Moor blood in her ancestory. "How may I assist you?" comes her question following her introduction.
Artemis	Artemis dismounts smoothly, the white robes rippling in the breeze. "You may assist me by stating the purpose of your expedition." the tall woman begins. Lingering near the horse, she pats its neck as she draws back the hood of her wrap. The long, crimson ponytail disappears beneath the fabric, and she studies the Englishwoman as she would study an opponent. "I, too, seek knowledge in the desert. And my search has brought me to this location. I do not want to think that we may be at odds."
Havok	"At odds?" questions Elizabeth as her brow raises and her eyes take in the full scope of Artemis. Noting the way she moves and the potential hostility in her voice - perhaps it's just posturing or could be more. Elizabeth says, "Historical research. We are seeking information regarding who was burried here. When did they live. What culture or society they are from and then we put all those pieces together to make a better sociological and historical map of human civilization."
Artemis	Artemis remains at her horse as she unwraps the long garment, showing the attire of a warrior beneath. The ponytail swishes about her calves, and she removes the broadsword in scabbard to casually settle it into the harness across her back. "My information tells me that this is a site of the Bana-Mighdall, an ancient society of warriors. I would join you in your research." And no, it wasn't a question.
Havok	Elizabeth is puzzled, "Oh?" comes the question to the Bana-Mighdall reference. She will look back a the tomb and say, "Perhaps.. please, come speak with Dr Higgenbottom. He's our lead archeologist. I'm sure what you're suggesting may strike a chord in his thought processes." Elizabeth will turn and begin walking in the hard sand back toward the tomb mouth expecting Artemis to accompany her.
Artemis	Artemis does indeed follow, booted feet crunching softly on the sand. "You are not familiar with the Bana, I take it." she replies while they walk. "Most people know the Bana only as 'Amazons', which is not completely correct." The tall woman's strides are long and she keeps up readily with Elizabeth. "What brought Doctor Higgenbottom to this site, specifically? Archeologists don't just gather a team of this size without having a specific goal in mind."
Havok	"I'm not as familiar as I should be. Considering the content of the peoples involved.", notes Elizabeth and she elaborates, "It would be nice if we all knew a bit more in this man's world." But instead of pursuing the conversation, shelving it for a later consideration, Elizabeth segues to, "I'm sure Dr Higgenbottom knows quite a bit more on the subject. He is quite versed in ancient cultures of the Mediterranean peoples. As for the size of our excavation party. We are funded by a corporation called 'Roxxon' who sent us here to gather information for the local peoples. If you like, the liasion is also here. You are free to speak with him as well."
Artemis	Artemis nods as she listens, grunting softly. "Yes, I would speak with this liasion, as well as the Doctor." she declares. Of late her world has become complicated by the presence of 'Doctors', beginning with Strange. But that arrangement has proven to be a most positive one, as is indicated by the information that led her here. "What are the Doctor's plans for any relics that are uncovered?"
Havok	"Study, primarily." notes Elizabeth as they reach the mouth of the tomb. She says, "However, that's dependant on whether or not we can breech the inner chamber. There is a huge stone door and the geologist warns about potential structural collapse if it's moved too quickly and everything needs to be reinforced." Voices are heard below, they seem to be arguing. All three are male. American Accented Male (Havok), "I've given you my suggestions. If you don't like it. Let me get out of here before you start trying to punch your way through that door." American Male (roxxon rep), "I appreciate your concerns, Mr Summers. But I'm sure we have it well in hand." English Accent (higgenbottom), "Gentlemen. Please. I plan on doing what Mr Summers suggests. There's no sense in rushing this and risking our lives."
Artemis	Artemis ducks her head, ignoring Elizabeth for the moment when she hears the other voices from within. Booted heels echo on the stone as she descends, and then the tall woman steps right into the midst of the team at the doorway. "I am seeking Doctor Higgenbottom and the local liasion." she declares, standing there looking both impatient and fierce.
Havok	Descending the 30 feet amidst the electric glow of the 60 watt yellow bulbs. Artemis will discover the three men. A blonde (alex) who wears standard khaki shorts/shirt. An older man (higgenbottom) who is perhaps in his late 60s. And then a 30 something brunette male (roxxon rep/matthews) wearing full slacks and a sweat stained cotton shirt. Alex appears as if he's about to take a swing at the roxxon rep. The rep is also armed with a pistol in his belt at the small of his back.     The three turn to see the woman descending. Alex is caught off guard with her prowess and strength of voice and Dr Higgenbottom seems quite pleased as he steps forward, "I am Dr Higgenbottom. How may I help you?"     The rep turns sharply, annoyed.
Artemis	Artemis's eyes narrow as she sizes up the group, momentarily meeting the rep's gaze before turning to the Doctor. "I am a researcher who is seeking knowledge of an ancient tribe. The call themselves the Bana-Mighdall, and I have reason to believe that this location may be of significance. The woman Elizabeth told me that I could find you here, Doctor."
Havok	Higgenbottom nods to Elizabeth and then she smiles and excuses herself to return to her duties. There are three other people in the 10x10 room. Workers who help carrying things up and out of the tomb itself. The far end of the room has a 6' high door with a clear hint of Greek archetecture to the build. But very early in greek history. Dr Higgenbottom says, "I share your assessment." He glances back at the stone door. "However, we're at an empasse at present and will not press forward until we can get this door reinforced." The rep continues to look annoyed. As if there's something inside the next chamber he wants. Alex seems to agree with the Doctor. But says nothing and remains more casual off to the side.
Artemis	Artemis takes a casually braced stance, folding both arms over her chest. She looks at each of those present in the room, then back to the door. "Once the door is reinforced, how do you intend to move it?" the woman asks simply. Pointing to the annoyed-looking rep and then to Alex, she asks. "Also, who are these people, Doctor? And I would know more of this Roxxom corporation before we proceed."
Havok	Alex chimes in, "Alex Summers, Geologist." He takes liberties with his title. But he's doing the job here, so why not. He adds with confidence, "After it's been reinforced, we bring down the hydraulic jacks and pry it open with leverage." Higgenbottom notes, "And this is Mr Matthews. He's our financial liasion from the Roxxon Corporation. He's a bit impatient today. Wanting it all done at once." Matthews says, "The less time we're here, the more money we save. So the faster we get into that room, the more money we have for research."
Artemis	Artemis unfolds her arms, hands finding her hips. "We will not need the hydraulic jacks." she declares, almost casually. "If that will save time. Tell me what your Roxxon wants to do with Bana relics, Mr. Matthews. I find it unusual that a corporation would spend this amount of money for knowledge and history."
Havok	Mr Matthews says, "I'm sorry. I'm not at liberty to discuss..." Suddenly the door begins to make a rock on rock sound as if it's opening on its own. Dust begins to get kicked up and Alex is heard saying, "What the heck?" Dr Higgenbottom turns about to look at the door, "Did anyone trip anything?" Matthews looks at the workers who are clear of any potential triggers or traps.
Artemis	"Get back!" the tall redhead yells. Stepping forward, she interposes herself in between the group and the door, whether they want it or not. She is focused on what may be inside. And while she waits, she declares. "You will -do- nothing... you will -say- nothing... without my permission."
Havok	The dust blocks most of direct sight as the door grinds open. Seconds will pass after the noise stops where no one can see anything but a cloud of red dust and smell the ancient scents of a musty room. However, when the dust finally clears there is a dimly lit room with a green hue beyond. Within the green light are three human sized figures that move in slithering grace. They rush forward toward the entrance and yell in a foreign tongue with a lot of sssssss's in the vocalization. http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/forgottenrealms/images/7/74/Monster_Manual_5e_-_Yuan-ti_-_p307.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20141116095915 Dr Higgenbottom is heard saying, "Oh my." as he backs away. Matthews states abruptly, "Sheto eshon kalvis elonsh." Alex surmises, "Oh hell. He's on their side." The snake like men slither forward with scimitars at the ready and attack through the door at Artemis.
Artemis	Artemis isn't an archeologist, she's a warrior. And she's trained to fight in a variety of situations for a couple hundred years now. The broadsword scraps out of its scabbard, and she assumes a ready stance at the doorway in the time it takes for the dust to settle. The three snake-men attack and scimitars meet Amazon steel. <CLANG> <CLANG> <CLANG> Attacks are turned with casual grace, and with the last she pivots to slam an armored elbow into the side of a snake-man's head.
Havok	Snake man number one goes down, the other press the attack. They don't respond to Matthews' remark. But it could have been instruction of some sort. Alex says, "Dr Higgenbottom, get out of here. We'll take care of this!" and he'll go after Matthews who has pulled out his gun and taken aim toward Artemis' back. Alex is too far away to leap across the room. Instead, he balls up his fist and suddenly the room is blindingly bright and loud as Matthews is blasted with Alex's lowest intensity plasma. Matthews impacts with the far wall unconscious. Meanwhile, deeper in the room, more of the snake men emerge from a deeper chamber.
Artemis	The other two continue their attack, and as Artemis steps into the chamber she sees more emerging. Another parry, a twist of the broadsword angling the point of the scimitar outward. Number two is neatly beheaded as she ducks beneath the third one's attack to scoop up a fallen scimitar. She spares Alex a glance over her shoulder when she hears Matthews smack against the wall. "Alex, there are more. Many more." she declares.
Havok	His own ears still ringing from the resonating echo of his blast, Alex yells back a little louder than he should, "Push them back, give me a clear shot!" and he'll move into the doorway a few feet behind her. The snakemen emerge up a ramp that descends into the deeper darkness. They also carry scimitars and are ready for battle. Others have short bows with arrows drawn. Alex will ready himself for his next shot. Which will likely be into the mouth of the ramp.
Artemis	The Amazon uses both weapons in the battle dance, now. Number three is parried with the scimitar before being cut in half by the broadsword. Giving Alex a nod, she lets out a loud battle cry and wades into the advancing snake-men. No longer fighting defensively, the Amazon attacks swiftly and without mercy. Several fall quickly, their blood spattering the walls. The first archer to emerge catches the thrown scimitar in the middle of his chest with such force that he is knocked back down the ramp, bowling over others behind him.
Havok	Alex moves forward, waiting for that clear shot. Snake-men fall all around. Alex braces himself and then with both hands clasped, he releases his fiery plasma down the ramp blasting all that would be approaching in a future wave. Knocking them all back, causing significant damage to the corridor that serves as their ramp up and even collapses some of the roof of the ramp preventing further ascending. The FOOOOOM still echos through tunnels and once again, Alex practically defeans himself. Dust rises again from the fallen roof of the corridor. But the fight is over, for now.
Artemis	Over a dozen have fallen by the time he gets a clear shot, and only then does the redhaired Amazon pause. The broadsword is streaked with reptilian blood, and she is splattered generously with it as well. But the woman isn't even breathing hard. Looking over at him after the blast, her gaze narrows a touch. "You seemed surprised that Mr. Matthews could speak with the snake-men. But you have secrets of your own, it would seem." The sword lowers, but not her guard.
Artemis	Over a dozen have fallen by the time he gets a clear shot, and only then does the redhaired Amazon pause. The broadsword is streaked with reptilian blood, and she is splattered generously with it as well. But the woman isn't even breathing hard. Looking over at him after the blast, her gaze narrows a touch. "You seemed surprised that Mr. Matthews could speak with the snake-men. But you have secrets of your own, it would seem." The sword lowers, but not her guard.
Havok	"I'm an X-Man. Havok is my callsign. And yes, surprised but also annoyed. That jackass was playing us and leading us into a trap. I'm sure if you weren't here, we would have had a bit of a harder time." He looks around the room and Dr Higgenbottom calls from the landing in the first room. "Is everyone quite alright?"
Artemis	Artemis reaches down to wipe her blade on Matthews' expensive slacks before sheathing it. She crouches, checking him for a pulse. "He is not dead." she declares. "I am Artemis, Shim'Tar of the Bana Mighdall." she offers in a low voice. "But for the Doctor's benefit, simply 'Artemis' will do."
Havok	"Pleasure." states Alex before he calls back to the doctor, "We're in here, doc." Higgenbottom will come into the inner chamber along with a few assistants. There will be some ooing and awing and Alex will do his best to explain the situation regarding Matthews and the snake men. Leaving out all the gory details and extended knowledge. Alex speculates that there is some ancient culture living beneath and that a more fitting expedition needs to investigate. Alex says as a tail statement, "Like Artemis here. She's quite capable and would be a better party leader." Alex also throws Matthews under the bus.