So, a lava elemental globbed me and my shirt killed me.

Par for the course.

But, then I decayed, and it was still burning, promptly boiling me again!
Is this an intended mechanic? I don't see why logically the shirt would stop burning, but man oh man is it an unfortunate (unfair?) turn of events to kill me immediately after appearing on the altar.

Thoughts? Thanks in advance to anyone who can help!

A huge lava elemental hurls a glob of lava at you!
You make a competent effort to avoid the lava! [d100:67]
The lava hits you squarely in your chest!
Your black silk shirt softens the blow and absorbs some of the heat.
... 5 points of damage!
Strike glances off your chest.
... 15 points of damage!

S>
Your black silk shirt cools some, but is still hot enough to do damage!
... 70 points of damage!
Fire completely surrounds you. Your blood boils and your heart stops.
The faint blue glow fades from around your hands.
The pleasantly warm sensation fades as your heartbeat begins to return to normal.
The thick plates of bone around your forearms begin to crack, then shatter into a fine white dust.

After decaying:

Your black silk shirt cools some, but is still hot enough to do damage!
... 70 points of damage!
Fire completely surrounds you. Your blood boils and your heart stops.

It seems you have died, my friend. Although you cannot do anything, you are keenly aware of what is going on around you...

-The mind behind Rowmi's eyes.

It could have been worse. You might have kept your deed but left your armor in the Confluence ...

Just to address the question about this...

It is working as intended. The lava globs heat up your clothing/armor. Those things are still hot even after you die. There's messaging to indicate this, however, so if you've been hunting in the Confluence and happened to be set on fire, make sure you are aware of this before you either decay, or have someone raise you. It can, however, be cooled off before a raise.

~ Haliste ~
The Forest Gnome of Silverwood Manor
ASGM, Events