EVENT #15: THE NETHER - IC EVENT LOG

[abraxasmods]

Event #15 - The Nether

OOC event plotting | settings info

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After a Conclave vote earlier this month, you're prepared to accept the formal request from the Nether for your assistance. By now, you'll know who the delegates are and that the dragons have suffered an illness from the rifts that opened this summer, due to the unfortunate actions of one of your fellow Summoned. Whether or not you agree with your Conclave's majority rule, the decision has been made.

The expedition will begin on October 16 and last 10 days. If you need to return home sooner, you can activate your portal stone at any point during the trip, but there's no going back once you do.

Though mysterious, the Draconae - or daemons, as others call them - are not elusive like the Fey. Anyone who's been to Nocwich will have seen a handful of them amongst the population, and some reside in the Free Cities or the outskirts of Thorne. The only nation they aren't found in is Solvunn.

Into the Heart

Your arrival to the Nether is a frosty one. The northern island is barren, save for a thick layer of snow, a few birds, and some hardy insects. Massive skeletal remains can be seen as you walk over the ice. Every few minutes, the ground trembles. The Draconae warriors greet you at the base of the volcano, including Orion, The Warden herself. Though they appear intimidating, they're grateful you're here and will clap you heartily on the back.

Entering the Obsidian Heart requires nerves of steel, but appearances aside, the narrow walkway is sturdy. As long as you're brave, you'll make it down without a problem. The less sure-footed are encouraged to ask for a hand. If they do, they'll be assigned a Draconum warrior who will cheerfully carry them down the winding path. You can also help each other, of course! Any Summoned who are capable can carry their friends, too.

As you venture down, the oppressive heat intensifies...until suddenly it stops. The moment you reach the fiery gates, the smell of brimstone fades from the air and the temperature eases into that of a pleasant summer's day. If asked, the Draconae will tell you this is how it is - a blessing from the two remaining dragons. Without them, the air would suffocate all life within.

Although the main purpose is to aid the dragons, the Draconae will invite characters to take breaks, participate in recreational activities, and explore the Nether. They want their guests to be comfortable, especially as the Summoned have arrived to help.

Around the City

At the center of the volcano lies the Obsidian Heart, where the Draconae reside. Made of stacking homes and stone bridges that spiral downward, it's a wonder how anyone finds their way. There are no maps, signage, or any form of direction. Their ability to navigate appears inherent. The most dangerous beasts lurk beneath the lava, so unless you intend to go swimming, you're unlikely to run into anything aggressive.

Doors and furniture are heavy and are made of iron, bronze, or steel. You might need to push or pull furnishings and doors with both hands and extra effort. Luckily, citizens are happy to help - as long as you ask. If you don't, they won't interfere out of respect for your autonomy. In fact, if they see you huffing and puffing, they might stop to watch and will sincerely cheer for you should you accomplish your objective by yourself.

Watch your sticky fingers. While petty theft is a minor offence in other places, the Draconae are highly protective of their belongings and treasures. Hands and heads have been lost over stolen trinkets.

The Hieran Wing

As a guest, you'll be invited to stay at the Hieran Wing. Named after Hierus, the oldest living dragon, the Hieran Wing is located in the eastern section of the Citadel. The rest of the Citadel is under heavy guard and inaccessible.

◎ The rooms are carved into the stone itself. Bedding is comfortable, if simple, with room to store your belongings. A curved stairwell grants you privacy even though many rooms have curtains rather than doors. The few rooms that have doors contain no locks. Your safety is assured, but if you're nervous, you can ask for a guard to watch you at night.

◎ The dining area consists of open-fire grills, pots, and raw ingredients - including spices and fiery hot peppers. As great believers in self-sufficiency, the Draconae will leave you to make meals to your taste and liking. You can hunt and fish your meat, as well. There are numerous lava pools where one can net jumbo shrimp, crabs, and flaming fish. For larger game, you can go after the Erymaes Boar or Petran Bison. Feel free to share your catch with your friends or offer to cook for the culinarily challenged.

◎ The library contains only fiction. You'll recognize several titles from your faction or Nocwich, suggesting they've brought back their favorite stories to read. Other titles are new, written by the Draconae. Novels and poetry span all genres, but the most common ones seem to be adventure, horror, and erotic romance - some of which contain surprisingly detailed illustrations.

Magma Pools

Outside the Hieran Wing, unusual cerulean magma pools are provided for bathing. Despite how they look, temperatures are equivalent to that of a steaming hot spring. The magma bubbles naturally from within the volcano and provides soothing effects. No soap or cleaning agents are required. These magma pools contain tiny frogs that leap and jump around. The Draconae consider them a tasty live snack. Don't be surprised if you see a local munching on them.

The Foundry

The Foundry has expanded over the past two centuries. A marketplace now circles the ancient forge. Observing the tradespeople inside and their secrets are off-limits. However, you can browse a selection of tools, clothes, accessories, and potions. Healing potions are common due to the Draconae's lack of healing magic.

You'll have the chance to request custom-made jewelry and purchase glass ornaments that are blown for you on the spot. Merchants won't sell the large weapons on display, but daggers and other small weapons are available. They'll also modify any pieces you own by adding jewels, altering the fit, or repairing nicks and faults...for a price. The Draconae deal in Abraxan currency if you have any, but they'll accept a vial or two of blood or saliva as payment.

Negotiations & Meetings (Rank 5+)

The first order of business is to present your Conclave's terms to the Inner Sanctum, the Draconae's governing body. If you've been voted as a delegate, you'll be greeted by the NPC meeting you (and your partner, if you have one). If you haven't been selected, you can still speak to some of the NPCs available.

A Place at the Table

Negotiations will take place in The Solar on the second day, a hall lit with a fiery orb of light. This is where the Inner Sanctum conducts all of its business. Tightly guarded, you're the first outsiders allowed inside in centuries. Here, you'll have the chance to present your terms and convince the Draconae to accept. You'll also have the first day of your arrival to gather a few details about the NPC you'll be meeting.

Only one meeting is required. The Nether will give you their final answer the following day.

Be sure to reply with the terms before starting the thread. Mods will approve or ask for revisions, so try to submit your points by OCTOBER 17.

Once approved, please TAG IN with your character under the correct faction heading.

Meeting the Inner Sanctum

Members of the Inner Sanctum who are not involved in diplomatic affairs are Aster, The Guardian and Anneth, The Flame. Additional descriptions about the two NPCs and where they can be found will be in their character comments below.

Characters who are Rank 5+ (negative or positive) and who are not acting as delegates can speak with one of the two NPCs above.

To do so, TAG IN with your character under the NPC you want to meet.

Runaway at Pyritean's Rack

Abraxan outsiders will whisper that Pyritean's Rack is a nefarious torture device created by the Draconae for their victims. This is true if the victim in question is delicious meat. The Rack, in other words, is a giant cooking area filled with grilling racks and pits. Shelves of ingredients and spices line the perimeter. Its most striking feature is the primary heat source, which uses magma rather than fire. Ingredients and meat unique to the Nether result in dishes and flavors not found elsewhere. Hot peppers are a popular feature.

The Draconae cook and share their food each night at the Rack. The station is always occupied. Locals take turns hunting and fishing, preparing ingredients, and cooking. Consequently, food is provided without cost. You only need to lend a hand.

Not everything goes smoothly, though. An escaped hatchling has infiltrated the Rack, and Khloris, the baby dragon, is eager to snatch and steal food throughout the week.

Earning the Torch

Impromptu competitions are frequent. They usually begin when one cook sees another outdoing them and makes a challenge. You can either issue a challenge or receive a challenge. Challenges can be between you and the natives, or you can face off with another Summoned. Judging is done by the crowd, which can be chaotic.

Not to worry! There's no downside to losing except your pride. Though the competition can grow fierce and heated in the moment - including vulgar insults and much jeering - once all is said and done, there are no grudges when the food hits the table. Sore losers are looked down on as being thin-skinned.

Winners will receive a jar of spice mix or marinating sauce from one of the many talented cooks. We won't be modding this aspect, so just be realistic with your character's cooking skills. Be sure to work things out with your thread partner if the competition involves another player character!

Escaped Hatchling

One young dragon has escaped its sanctuary at Dragon's Glass. Curious, it's drawn to the smell of food at Pyritean's Rack. As a result, it's disrupting competitions, breaking equipment, and stealing ingredients or even chunks of meat off people's plates. Desperate to get the dragon back before it causes more trouble - or worse, injures itself - the Draconae have asked you to catch the hatchling.

Of course, you'll need to contend with the dragon's unique abilities.

Khloris, the runaway in question, leaves behind small patches of grass. Its pollen dust coats nearly everything it goes near. When eaten or touched, the pollen causes flowers to sprout in your hair for a day or two. It can't fly far or very high, but it's prone to swooping down to snatch meat off the grill. The Flame informs you the dragon can be lured with gold trinkets or bright colors like red and yellow.

To see if your character can catch the dragon, submit for a roll HERE. Submissions will close October 18 at 11:59 ET. Results will be posted on October 19 so players can account for their success or failure.

Ailing Dragons

The two ailing dragons are Hierus, the Obsidian Drake, and Kruos, the Glass Serpent. Mated to each other, they're the only remaining adult dragons in the Nether and have been for decades. When you visit them at Dragon's Glass, their condition is worrisome. The dragons' scales have lost their luster and are grown over with painful white patches. They appear lethargic.

Those researching can offer the dragons healing potions or ointment to aid their symptoms while a cure is worked on. If you're not much of a healer or a scientist, you can feed them or simply spend time with them. The dragons are intelligent and appear capable of understanding you, though they can't communicate directly.

Characters have 3 avenues of participation, depending on their interests and strengths: gathering ingredients, researching the cure, and looking after the baby dragons and eggs. They'll have time to do all three throughout the 10-day excursion.

Finding a Cure

At first, you aren't sure where or how to start. The Draconae suggest the Ashlands may be a place to explore. It's dangerous, they warn, but they have a potion that'll help keep you safe. Due to the hazards, you're told not to go alone. As you travel through the deadened land, you notice an odd phenomenon: where you walk, the air around you clears, and the ground beneath your feet springs to life. You realize you don't need the potion to protect you.

The changes are temporary, fading behind you as you walk. Curiously, the effect you exhibit is similar to what the Draconae claim their dragons are capable of - though to a much smaller degree. Still, you have to wonder if you and the dragons share a similar magical connection to the Singularity. You can't help but notice that those of you who regularly interact with the Horizon and have been doing so for a while seem to affect your environment more. Your aura may be a little larger and the vicinity restored around you lasts a bit longer rather than melting away immediately - maybe even up to a minute or two.

Restoration and Gathering

Your ability to restore the land has unlocked a vital element. Ingredients once thought lost can now be gathered by the Summoned such as yourself, and they may hold the key to curing the dragons. Bring back these ingredients to your peers waiting at Dragon's Glass. The more you gather, the more they'll be able to research and experiment, so don't be shy about making multiple trips.

There are three sections for you to explore. Each one has its dangers and a specific ingredient to collect.

Due to its circumstances, Aetherie is only available on Day 9 of the event, shortly before the cure is finalized. The Draconae will seal the area once more when they realize what's happening. Cinder's Core and Featherhive are open for the full duration of the event.

◎ Cinder's Core

Filled with petrified trees and fossilized bones, the area that restores around you demonstrates its previous life as a flourishing rainforest: the humidity grows, the grass turns lush, and tropical flowers sprout under your fingertips. Although its sulfuric air won't affect you, you'll need to brave dangerous heights to reach the tops of trees and dried-up waterfall cliffs to retrieve the kydros fruit. The fruit smells like citrus and is surprisingly light despite its size.

Vines brought back to life can help you climb, forming ropes for you to climb and bridges that weave beneath your feet. They'll wither once more behind you, so you'll want to move quickly to avoid losing your footing. Height isn't the only danger - the ground below is littered with sharp skeletal protrusions and jagged trees. Beware of dangerous thorn bushes that will come to life in your presence and try to crush you in their spiny embrace as you ascend.

◎ Featherhive

The air here is too toxic for the Draconae to breathe in for long. Luckily you're unaffected. Scattered across the ground are the remaining husks of birds' nests. A dragon's skeleton curls under a rocky overhang. Use your restorative ability to journey deep into Featherhive's heart. Pushing aside the thick overgrowth reveals a small clearing covered in bright crystals for you to harvest.

Although Featherhive poses no physical danger, the land is haunted by shadow birds, ethereal spirits connected to the dragons - and you. As you pass through, they flutter around you and parrot familiar lines to each other. Their movements are jerky and strange. Quickly, you realize the birds are mimicking your memories. They might replicate an entire scene or echo a phrase or two that's plagued you all your life. Or, if you're lucky, they're merely repeating your grocery list. Shooing them will cause them to dissipate into smoke, but they'll soon return.

◎ Aetherie

The loss of a dragon released a noxious gas through this village without warning. Escaping villagers were forced to leave behind those they could not save and seal the doors. The Oblivion is a painful moment in history for many, and none have set foot near the area since. Near the end of your stay, the Draconae request you use your ability to venture where they can't and gather Anoix pods, powerful healing seeds from a plant that only grew in Aetherie. They believe the abandoned huts will contain pouches of the pods on shelves and cabinets.

Entering the village, you expect a tragic scene of corpses. Instead, you find something far worse. The dead have mutated into grotesque arachnids, limbs fused to bulbous abdomens. They show no signs of recognition or awareness and attack you on sight. Hidden in the depths of the purple haze, rat-sized spiders scurry forth. Their venom causes painful sores that will fester and spread if left untreated. Multiple bites may result in temporary blindness or paralysis of a limb. Luckily, this will clear up within 24 hours to a few days, depending on the severity.

Grab the pods if you can or flee if you're overwhelmed. When word reaches The Warden, she'll rapidly send her people to reseal the abandoned village and come to aid any who need it. If you're injured, The Flame and her apprentices will tend to you at Dragon's Glass.

Research and Magic

Dragon's Glass is a glass-domed temple said to be forged from the fires of Kruos. It's located in the Spiral, which is outside the Obsidian Heart. Here, the two remaining dragons reside while ill, along with their clutch of eggs and a few precious hatchlings.

Anneth, The Flame, will invite you into the temple's alchemy labs, where you can apply your skills and knowledge to create the healing elixir that cures the dragons. Doing so requires you to experiment with key ingredients found in the Ashlands. You'll have access to basic alchemy books and apprentices at the temple. Use any additional tools, supplies, and knowledge you possess, and take advantage of the resources donated by the factions.

How you approach your research is up to you, but each ingredient comes with a set of risks - so be careful while you work!

◎ The kydros fruit contains seeds that will explode when heated, causing a chain reaction like popped popcorn. The explosions aren't large, but they might scorch your supplies. Crushing them in the open air results in a similar chemical reaction. However, soaking them in water makes them soften into mush, allowing you to turn the seeds into a paste that could be useful. The fruit is similar to grapefruit and is excellent for a sore throat.

◎ The crystals come in three colors: red, blue, and black. Extended contact will dye your skin that color. The stains are extraordinarily stubborn, so your clothes may not recover. These crystals resonate with a strange hum that suggests they respond well to magic spells. Combining them with a liquid will give off a foul-smelling smoke, so you may need to find ways to neutralize the stench before combining it into an elixir.

◎ The Anoix pods must be used sparingly, as no more can be gathered from Aetherie. They possess strong healing properties, but each pod is very delicate and must be split open with care so as not to damage the soft seeds inside. In addition to researching the cure, you can also attempt to help the Dracaone grow new Anoix plants using the preserved seeds.

The final cure will use all 3 key ingredients. Don't worry too much about continuity! As long as your character participated, you can assume they made a valuable contribution.

However, to assist with coordination, we've provided a RESEARCH DISCOVERY section where you can present any findings your character would share with others in-game.

Hatchlings and Eggs

While curing the adult dragons is a priority, the hatchlings and eggs aren't to be neglected. Baby dragons are active troublemakers, and without their parents to keep them in line, they've become especially unruly. The apprentices at the temple can only do so much. The Keeper has even made rare appearances in Dragon's Glass to lend his assistance.

Meanwhile, the eggs are beginning to show signs of affliction. The shells are beginning to weaken, and the feathery growths appearing on them will suffocate the hatchling inside if left untreated.

Babysitting the Dragons

If you have a spare moment, you can look after the baby dragons. Keep them out of trouble by reading their favorite stories, singing songs, and playing with them. They'll also need to be fed, watered, and their bedding changed or fluffed. The hatchlings are mischievous but friendly. They're eager to bond with the Summoned for reasons unexplained, as if they feel something resonating within you.

Many are attracted to shiny objects and bright colors and will attempt to steal them. Conversely, they might gift you a trinket that they've pilfered from someone else. The local Draconae would appreciate it if you returned any missing tools or jewels.

Hatchlings you'll encounter in Dragon's Glass are:

◎ Okenus spouts water instead of flame. Bearing fins instead of wings, this sea dragon is vital to bringing lakes and rivers back to the Nether. Currently, it can only make tiny puddles and rainclouds. Watch that your belongings don't get wet. Standing near the dragon might cause a small storm cloud to spawn over you and rain down on your head. A simple spell will make the cloud disappear, but if you don't have any magic, you might have to bring an umbrella.

◎ Epeius can form miniature gusts of wind beneath its wings, but it doesn't have firm control and frequently spawns them when excited. These small dust devils and whirlwinds will follow you around. Though they aren't powerful, they can be a nuisance, knocking over cups, blowing away hats, and sending papers flying. The other hatchlings will find your misfortune a source of amusement.

◎ Ledas can help salt deposits form in the shape of large salt crystals. Salt is important to the Draconae, which the hatchling is aware of and thus takes great pride in its abilities. The crystals can be eaten as is or crushed into granules. Ledas will strive to impress you with the largest crystals that it can make...which occasionally results in the structure collapsing, littering the ground with salt. You might find yourself sweeping often around this dragon, but at least you'll never be short on seasoning.

◎ Anthusa is a very special hatchling that creates bioluminescent algae. The algae grow on its scales, forming a symbiotic relationship. Unfortunately, without a proper habitat for this algae in the Nether, its glow has dimmed in recent years and the hatchling has become languid and sickly despite its youth. Nonetheless, Anthusa is friendly and curious even if it struggles to keep up with its siblings. You can help Anthusa play by lifting it to heights it can't reach, and carrying it back when the dragon is too tired to walk.

Weakened Eggs

As noted, the eggs demonstrate signs of suffering, too. Three eggs are waiting to be hatched. Whether all of the eggs survive is dependent on the decision that each faction Conclave made regarding resources found, as well as the help provided by you and your fellow Summoned.

The eggs can't be cured until the dragons are cured, but you can help slow the growths by gently scraping them off and wiping the eggs regularly with a clean cloth. They must also be kept heated, so check the magma frequently and refill any magma basins. The growths can be donated to those researching for additional study if you wish.

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Comments

pyritean's rack. {ota}

[falcony]

[ it does not take very long before sam hears word of pyritean's rack; the nefarious torture device of phenomenal food and friendly competition. he will watch the first day's events if only because he wants an idea of what he's getting himself into - but after that? there isn't anything anyone can do to keep sam away.

more often than not he will simply be cooking, finding familiar grounds with the hot peppers and selection of seafood at his disposal. chances are if you are the type to go hunting, or fishing, or are just looking for something to do - sam will send people off to bring him food without hesitation. he wants to try a little of everything, wants to learn and apply where he can.

it's only a matter of time before someone challenges him, and sam won't hesitate for even a moment before agreeing. he will probably show off a bit too, but lucky for him, he grew up learning to cook at wilson family reunions. if you think this is chaotic, you have no idea what those sunday afternoons were like.

so yeah, this? this is sam's element. with an ale in one hand and a large iron fork in the other, sam is officially the grilling dad here in the nether - and it's about time some of the locals got to try some of the meals he's most proud of. you too, if you come wandering by. ]

Hey! [ does sam know you? well, it won't really matter if he does. ] You have to try this- here. [ yes, he's already making you a plate. hope you're hungry! ]

drive-by

[nomnoms]

[ The plate will be handed to a seven foot tall manshark, who takes it without question and eats it whole - plate and all. In all likelihood, he barely tasted any of it going down. ]

Thank you. [ his voice rumbles, and he ambles off to the next person offering food. ]

[falcony]

[ sam will blink, once - give himself just the space of that single blink to process what's happened - before he smiles, friendly, casual, like this is a normal day for him. because in a way it kind of us. ]

You want- oop.

[ and there he goes. sam is going to look at his own hand, where the plate had been, and the grill in front of him.

welp. there we go. ]

[beautifullies]

[ Claire hasn't eaten, and she intends to pass through, but now there's food in front of her and she can't deny the way her stomach growls. It's only a second later that she realizes who is pushing the plate of food in front of her. ]

Sam! [ She says his name with a pleased smile, taking the plate from him and sitting right there in the closest seat. ] How are you? Staying out of trouble, I hope.

[ In a very short amount of time, she's grown fond of Sam, and so she's happy to eat as directed; it's been her first reminder of the day. ]

[falcony]

[ claire smiles, her attention finally coming up to meet his face, and sam just grins back. he is going to lean in for the hug before she can settle, but he'll make it quick enough that she can get back to her seat and start in on the plate.

he laughs, turning to the grill and the food in his hands. ]

Trouble? Me? Last I checked you were the one I needed to worry about. [ that is definitely not at all a subtle jab at the fact sam can probably guess this is her first meal of the day.

still, it's...god, it's good to see her. in person. around. ] Between you and me, I'm just glad to get out and about again, and I'm kind of a fan of all this. [ he gestures around them. ] The Draconae know a thing or two about food.

What about you?

[beautifullies]

[ She huffs at being called out, but he isn't wrong, so she simply rolls her eyes before pointedly stuffing her mouth full of food. She's nodding though, looking around at everything as she chews and listens. Wiping her mouth, she laughs in agreement. ]

I'm a bit disappointed we'll have to leave this behind when we inevitably go back to our factions. Not just the fantastic food, but being able to see others and have it be real.

[ It's always nice to see any of her friends in the Horizon when she can, and she tries to see as many as she can in Nocwich, but it's nice to be leisurely and casually. ]

I've been doing my best to keep my nose clean. The woods are something else.

[ She doesn't look amused by the antics of the birds, and she takes a long pull from her drink. ]

That area feels so different from the rest, somehow.

[falcony]

[ see, there's this whole thing with sam wilson where he's usually right about this stuff. and it usually comes at the expense of literally whoever it is he's talking to. is he, at times, also a hypocrite? absolutely. and half the words he tells someone else can be easily thrown back on him. but that doesn't make him wrong.

and judging from the way claire stuffs her face, sam just sort of lifts his brow at her. a very well known expression of uh-huh? want to keep arguing? but she's eating, and that's all he can really ask for in this moment, so that's good enough for him.

when she brings up the whole in-person of it all, sam can't help the way he...not deflates, exactly, but there does seem to be a kind of weight to him even as he nods. ] It feels harder each time, somehow. Nocwich helps, but even that's only for a weekend. Having over a week to actually spend with others is... it's hard to go back to the way things are.

[ he finishes up what he's doing, though - quickly calming the grill portion and keeping the fire contained. he's done for now, he thinks, and this is a bit higher priority. he takes what's left of the food he's made and moves to sit across from her nodding in agreement. ]

There's some kind of magic, or I guess lack of it. I don't know really know what's happening with all this, but it's...something else. How much of a difference we make, too.

[beautifullies]

I've been thinking about that, what our impact is here.

[ He's right too, that it gets harder and harder each time they're allowed to all cohabitate and are then separated. She hates that, but then she assumes most do. Especially the couples separated by factions; if Jamie ever did arrive and he wasn't with her in Solvunn, she wouldn't have to raise hell about it because he would. In any case, she does think about everything that simply existing in Abraxas implies. ]

We've been brought here, all of us, for a purpose. Is that to unite the factions, or be dispensible soldiers in their battles? When we get together this way, is it to see how large our numbers look when all together? Is it to make sure we all get along?

[ It's a mystery to her, one she wants to dig into, literally. ]

I've been here long enough that I'm ready to try and find more answers. I understand things better, and if anything small can help us build the bigger picture and get home, I'll take it.

[falcony]

[ he can tell there's more to follow her statement, when she leads with i've been thinking. claire strikes him as one of those people who - once her mind is settled - there is nothing that will stand in her way. he shifts a bit where he is, settling in to listen - and it does appear she's right.

the i've been here for long enough is what has sam finally nodding. he understands the feeling, the urgency that sometimes grips him. ]

That's the issue, isn't it? The first summoning we came through because Ambrose thought us powerful heroes that could help this world. It was in great peril, and we were the only ones to help it. [ sam lets out a breath, shakes his head, rubs at the back of his neck. ] What it was - is - causing that peril is what's up for debate. Since we arrived the Singularity's been going off, but is that because we're here or were we brought here to help it? The Cities are enlisting anyone who shows up, so is that because they just need numbers in their army against Thorne? There are theories around that the Singularity's the center of pretty much every universe, that its energy is what connects it all together. Are we here because the Singularity needs us? And the people that live here just happen to live in the most dangerous place in the universe? And that's not even broaching the whole gods situation.

[ there's a beat here, and then sam lets out a breath. forces himself to loosen a bit of that tension that had started to climb up his shoulders. ]

Sorry- if you can't tell, I've also been thinking about it.

[beautifullies]

Don't apologize when I brought it up. You've said so much of what I've felt. I've wondered if there are secrets buried underground, because no, I certainly don't think these people just happen to live here. I would be willing to bet they're the descendants of the first people pulled here at the start of the planet's existence. I don't know what happened next, but get enough people in one place—all from different worlds and backgrounds by the way—, and someone trying to govern them all is a recipe for disaster. There you go with how the factions were established and the tension leading to wars. As time went on, more people were pulled in and others began to have families. Even a hundred years is two or three generations down the line; people begin to forget their history and make up all sorts of myths, gods, and religions to explain their origins.

[ Claire can definitely get going when she wants to. ]

Which begs the question: at what point do we stop being Summond and start being locals? But these are just my theories.

[falcony]

[ oh, she can definitely get going. and sam is only going to add fuel to the fire - he may not be a philosophical type, but where this is concerned, where all of this is concerned, is people. it always comes down to people. and that's not ever going to be something he can take lightly. ]

You're also talking about places that pride themselves in their knowledge- the Thorne library, the universities, whether or not they have it written, there's got to be people out there who have wanted to know where they come from.

But okay, let's go with that theory. That the first people were pulled here and then dumped here and everyone around us now are descendants from them. First, is that assuming it's all the Singularity? So the factions doing the Summoning and all that business is just...what, a farce? And second question- why? Why now? And why were they pulled before? [ sam gestures around them, briefly. ] This isn't a place that needs to be populated, there's plenty of magic and swords and people willing to do what they need to- so why us? And why now?

[ after another moment, he smiles - apologetic, in a way. almost as if he's aware of how intense he can come across when it comes down to it. ]

Just...if we're going to start looking into all this.

Feed him

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Istredd is in a state of being where he's been so focused on research and the potential cure with the other healers and magic users that he forgets to eat and sleep. Lucifer's usually very good at reminding him of these things, he's always done that even in the start, but it's easy for him to get swept up in work.

He's coming back from going to get more ingredients, having snuck a few of the crystals and ignored the memory birds now that he knows what they are, and he plans on going to work. The crystals are in a little pouch and Istredd glances up when he hears 'hey.' He and Sam have only met briefly when Geralt brought them together in his library, although he's known who the man is for quite some time, being close with the others from his sphere.

Istredd takes the plate, a little dazed, and realizes he's hungry just about the time his nose smells the food and immediately craves it. It even makes a little gurgle and he gets a fork. ]

Thank you. I don't ... remember the last time I ate.

[ It had to be semi-recent, Lucifer would make sure of that, but probably still some time if he's hungry. ]

I heard that you're good at cooking from Wanda.

[falcony]

[ one of the things sam's noticed over these 'all summoned' events is that he can usually spot habits across the board. many of the summoned have come to this place knowing there is a cure to be found, and they know there is a purpose to be served.

which, as sam has seen and understands and knows, also tends to mean other things fall to the wayside. like eating, and taking care of yourself in general. really, the only reason sam hasn't gone on into those alchemy rooms himself is because barbeque is always better right off the heat, and usually he can stop someone walking by just as easily.

he recognizes the look on istredd's face easily enough - and he's glad when the other man actually stops and accepts the plate. that's the hard part, after all. ]

Oh? Hope it lives up to the reputation. [ the easy smile on sam's face means he's not actually that worried about it - he knows it's good. ] Sit, eat. Your brain's not working with a full tank if you haven't eaten enough.

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Most of the minds that immediately went for the cure are the same type, otherwise alchemy and healing wouldn't be their instinct. He probably should bring food to the others, now that he's thinking of it, and he might after he does the same. At this point the food doesn't have to be good, it just has to be edible, or that's the way he's been thinking of it since eating Lucifer's badly cooked meat.

Trying Sam's is a different experience and he sighs contently, taking a seat and realizing only then too that his body is tired. It appreciates having a moment sitting, having been standing or crouching over potions for a while. He has a tendency to get very absorbed, and he'll bring the food to Yennefer after this, see if he can get her to sit down without getting a specific stare. ]

Thank you, this is good. [ But Sam knows that. ] My partner has been cooking for us and what he seems to know is cooking meat. But only a little or a lot.

[ But of course, Istredd is going to eat everything he's handed and appreciate it! It's sweet of Lucifer to try and feed the people he cares for, even if it's terrible. It is possible he is going to poison one or all of them, but Istredd will stomach it anyway. ]

[falcony]

[ really, it's not fair to lucifer to compare his cooking to sam's. it's not fair to compare most of the summoneds' food to sam's. which may or may not be futile, given the state of the competition, but sam likes to think of himself as a good winner, and loser, if and when that comes around. the content sigh has sam grinning, proud to be feeding and also proud of the food itself.

sam laughs, keeping his hands busy with the food he's still got going on the grill and nodding along with istredd's description. ]

I know a few people like that, yeah. Meat's usually something people get comfortable with cooking first. Really, practice makes perfect, so I'm sure they'll be a lot more skilled by the end of this trip. [ istredd is being very nice about lucifer's food, if there's a possibility they might get poisoned. but hey, sam can only work with what he's given.

now - when istredd decides to take any leftovers to yennefer, she will probably refuse it until she knows for sure it's not lucifer's doing. but hey, they can deal with that then. ]

[magicalarchaeologist]

He's new to the caretaking concept but he's trying. It's the effort that counts.

[ And that means Istredd is going to support him regardless of how it tastes. Lucifer trying to take care of people is very sweet in his eyes, and while his partner grumbles about his reasons for doing so, they do know his reasons why. He's come a long way after a year and some change. Istredd's probably the only one who is actively eating what Lucifer gives him, but that's what being in a relationship is like.

This is a relief though, something that he is eating for the sake of it. He does know that his mind has to be fed but it's easy to get caught up in a project. He'll make sure Yennefer knows this is not Lucifer's doing, although smelling it would prove that, as it doesn't smell like a disaster. ]

I'll have to bring some of this to my fellow researchers. We're not coming up for air very often, but it's a big problem to solve.

[ They have to try and save an entire species. Big ask! ]

How's everything going in Cadens?

[falcony]

[ sam nods, even if its accompanied by a wink. ] It is the effort that counts, yeah. But sometimes you also want some good food. You know where to find me, from here on out.

[ but it is endearing to him, in a lot of ways. to know that istredd is the type to do that for someone he loves, no matter the actual product that's being talked about. it's a good tick in sam's book, as far as his opinion is istredd is concerned.

he nods when istredd mentions his fellow researchers. ] Back in the Cities I usually can bring the food to the Universities and labs. Here it's a little harder, so if you can get your buddies up here, I'll happily spread the love. Even if it's quick, food always helps.

[ the question has sam...well, he doesn't laugh exactly, but there's a kind of tired chuckle - one that istredd probably recognizes as that's a hell of a question. ]

It's going. A lot of us have been focused on some of the more local issues. What about y’all in Thorne?

[magicalarchaeologist]

[ Their psychic bond means that he can only sometimes get away with sneaking around, and in this case he's sneaking around because of food, but he'll make it work. Istredd wants Lucifer to feel like he's providing since he's putting in the effort. He doesn't know if any of the others have accepted his food, not everyone is willing to suffer through potential food poisoning out of love, but Istredd certainly would. ]

I'll see what I can do. Brains do need food in order to work and we can't risk messing this up. You could see the lot of us are workaholics though.

[ Istredd is the type and this problem has clearly drawn other people who are the type. Some are wise and coming in and out, some are just going to get ingredients and leaving the braining to the nerds, but most are as hyper-focused as he is. Yennefer was to be expected, but they're hardly alone in this endeavor. It'll all be worth it in the end.

He hasn't been able to see the hatchlings really, which is probably his only regret. He can't spend the time to look around, see the culture, book search. Lucifer at least has been able to do it. Perhaps they'll let them come back, if all goes well. ]

Everyone's mostly recovered from the rifts, we had a destructive situation in Nott from one of them dying at the docks. They've been trying to encourage us to go to Borrel more often, where their military and navy are. I'm not sure if they think that'll inspire anyone to join.

[ Cadens already is a military spot so Istredd figures they already have that covered, but in Thorne they used to have very tight control over where people could go. The military area in Borrel was one of those, but they recently opened a portal there. Istredd had asked them for Hayle and got Borrel instead, which he was very disappointed about. He's not even sure if they'd allow a Summoned to go enlist, if it was outside of their control in the castle. No one's displayed any interest as far as he knows. ]

[aquilus]

[Altaïr wouldn't dare subject others to his cooking while they are guests in a different land, lest the results give a bad impression and endanger their purpose here. His cooking can be called passable — he's spent too many nights journeying alone through the Holy Land for it to be otherwise — but no more than that.

Which may make it hypocritical of him to eagerly try the wares of others, but it wouldn't be his first incidence of hypocrisy, and it's a far more benevolent one. Besides, Sam is scarcely offering him a choice.]

You're fitting in quite well. [It's a statement of the obvious.] You win people over wherever you go, don't you?

[falcony]

[ sam may or may not know a thing or two about surviving on passable cooking. it could be said he actually had to eat much worse (but don't tell steve that, sam doesn't want to hurt his feelings).

still, it's kind of reinforced a way of thought sam already had - if you're good at something, and you like doing it, then it's your own responsibility to step up.

and step up, sam has. ]

Hey- I'm just lucky. How was I supposed to know they liked grilling? [ but the smile sam gives makes it known he's aware what altair is getting at, and sam shrugs. ] And I like people. How're you holding up?

feel free to drop if this shit is too OLD and crusty

[aquilus]

Forgive me if I continue to think it was more than luck.

[A surprise, maybe. But Sam is a people person a way that Altaïr is not; he isn't at all surprised to see him adapting seamlessly to what is called for in these particular circumstances.]

I'm well enough. I've only nearly died once or twice gathering the ingredients needed by our hosts. It's been a somewhat dull visit.

[Some people might assume he is joking in his recap of recent happenings. He is not.]

omg no friend you are TOTALLY fine

[falcony]

I won't argue too much, then. Cause that means it won't run out.

[ which is to say, sam's very aware of his own capabilities and where he shines. it just so happens that the nether is one such place, and he's not going to kick a gift horse in the mouth.

still, he is curious about how everyone else is fitting in - and altair's update does, in fact, catch his attention. ]

Sorry- rewind that. What? You almost died twice? Something else going on out there, or did I just pick the more-dull errands?

[aquilus]

The Aetherie was more populated than we would have expected after the disaster these people suffered there. But not by anything human.

[Not anymore, that is. Only monstrous figures filled with unthinking fury still walked the paths there.]

Also, a thorn bush attempted to crush the Doctor and I while we gathered ingredients.

[This was less ridiculous and more dangerous than it sounds.]

[falcony]

[ the mention of the area being populated has sam's mouth opening, prepared to ask by who and why haven't we heard from them, but is right about then that altair says a thorn bush tried to crush the doctor and i and well. he supposes that works as an answer. ]

Do you uh- normally get attacked by the local flora? [ which, okay, isn't fair. sam's got a feeling that it is actually a much more serious situation than that, but he has to ask.

then, a moment later. ] I'm also assuming you both made it out okay?

[aquilus]

This would be the first time. I'll be more prepared for future encounters.

[How? Who knows. He just will. Daggers better suited to cut plants, portable tinder to set an easy fire, who can say. Perhaps there is even magic for such things.]

We made it alive and whole and with what we came to get. I've faced more difficult challenges here and in the world I came from.

[Murderous thorn bushes: no big deal.]