"Into the Earth" is a story setting created by Fantom Fox for an original story and for use in Vampire: the Masquerade campaigns. The details of the treasure and adventure are yet unknown, but what follows is an introduction to the story and the main character (NPC) who drives the opening of the campaign.
--------------------------------------------

~1929. There is great excitement in northern Africa as an ancient Egyptian tomb is discovered far from the Valley of Kings. It’s walls reveal the myth of the Pyramid of Wer Maaw, a gigantic structure hidden in the western desert that housed the greatest wealth of ancient Egypt. Treasure hunters and historians flock to Cairo from every part of the world, all hopeful to set one foot inside that pyramid of riches.

But deep in the night, sinister forces were at work. The tomb was defiled and destroyed, leaving the pyramid’s location and details known only to a select few. These few found themselves often in danger. Several were kidnapped, and a few were killed for the information. But the ploy worked, and many treasure hunter hopefuls left empty handed.

The ones who remained were as determined as ever. Due to the limited factual information, rumors flew. Many teams set out in search, but few ever returned, and none with any success. Failure after failure, people still continued to seek out what promised to be the greatest treasure of all times. There was one man who swore above all else to find the Pyramid of Wer Maaw. His name was Ricter Lex.

~193X. It was near midnight. A light haired man sat alone in a bar, papers spread in all directions in front of him. He ignored the din of the activity around him and focused on his notes. His search had led him finally back to Cairo. There was someone here who had the information he needed. All that was left was to find him before....

A dark figure approached the man’s table, interrupting his thoughts. "I know what it is you’re after, Mr. Lex, and I warn you, you will not succeed if you continue your current path." Lex looked up and started to speak, but the figure cut him off. "You will never defeat the mysteries of the Pyramid without our aid. Your devoted brother has already sought our council."

Lex narrowed his eyes. "I already told your messenger that I’m not interested in your business. Please, leave me alone. I do not concern myself with my brother’s folly." The figure did not move from its spot. Lex stared at his work in front of him. "Now, leave me alone," he growled.

The figure bowed then rapidly departed. A young woman serving drinks nervously came over to Lex’s table. "Is there something I can do for you?" Lex buried his face in his hands and shook his head. "No," he said snappishly. He was shaking all over. `They’ve never been that close before. What can I do?` Suddenly, he felt someone slide close next to him on the bench. He jumped and turned quickly. The woman with the drinks put her head on his shoulder. She leaned into him saying, "I’m off work now. Care to talk about it?"

Several hours later, the two were lying in a bed in a near solidly dark room. The woman, whose name was Lucinda, nuzzled Lex’s neck. "Is all that you told me true? You’re searching for some lost treasure from ancient times? That’s incredible."

Lex nodded. "I know. But I’m outclassed and outnumbered. My brother was always better at finding these kinds of things when he put his mind to it. There’s just nothing I can do to get the edge that he has. I’ve tried nearly everything...."

Lucinda sat up. "I want to help you, but you must answer me one thing. Why did you refuse that man’s help?"

"Because," Lex started, "that man and his organization destroyed my family. I cannot commit to an organization that...." His voice trailed off.

Lucinda leaned in close. "Let me help you. Please. Let me kiss you."

Lex looked at her carefully, finally understanding. "Yes."

The following night, Lex greeted the darkness in high spirits. "I swear this day that I will claim the Pyramid of Wer Maaw for myself and my clan. A new man has been born this night! Beware, brother! Randall Lex will not be defeated this time."

Profile: Randall Lex