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

erik lehnsherr — solvunn — the hermit

[heavymetals]

— open prompts below
— hit me up @ extreminator if you'd like me to type up a top level involving a different prompt, I'm open to whatever!

— into the heart

[heavymetals]

[ The descent is of no concern to Erik, mainly because he doesn't actually have to walk his way down. Magnetic fields seamlessly carry him down the way, and to the nearby observer, it will just look like he's flying, not losing his poise or balance for even an inch.

He will slow down or even stop mid-air if he sees someone struggling, though, a genuine offer as he stretches out a hand. ]

Can I help?

[cointosser]

[Not fucking again.

He will scream it to the skies. Not fucking again. After that fucking dwarven bridge, Jaskier had made a promise to himself. To the world. To Destiny herself: he would never be found, dead or alive, on another one of those tiny fucking bridges. Not after what happened to Borsch... whether he lived or not.

Not in a bloody century.

And yet, he stands somewhat near the path's edge, knowing that this stupid, insignificant, ridiculous, terribly carved path is what separates him from dragons. From true dragons. A beast he has been chasing his entire life to see. His heart is a terrified thumping caged thing in his chest. He approaches the edge, gives a startled gasp, then falls back.

This is worse. This doesn't even have a rope. Or a Geralt.

And yet, Melitele herself seems insistent to bless Jaskier in this moment, knowing his desire to meet a dragon is as unselfish as it comes -- and that he fully deserves it. Because as a hand offers itself, Jaskier sees who it is attached to, and that... oh, Melitele, bless you. That's a "yes" from him. An absolute yes. Speaking of yeses --]

Oh! Gods, yes. [The words are nearly a purr, but also real, actual relief. Jaskier takes the hand, clasping it with both of his own.] Yes. I mean, yes. I absolutely -- yes, I could use a little help, I'm afraid I'm not terribly great with heights, and -- oh, fuck, are you floating? Excuse me, levitating? Is that's what happening?

[Alucard has corrected him more than once on the difference.] You know what? It doesn't matter. I just want to be free from this. [He would gesture to the entirety of this path, but he's still holding onto him with both hands.]

[heavymetals]

[ Well, he's certainly eager. But then, Erik can't fault him. He too would probably be relieved beyond measure if heights were such a serious issue for him, and if someone were to offer help. Well, maybe a little less relieved. Definitely a lot less demonstrative about it.

But he doesn't mind being on the receiving end, either. He wouldn't have stretched out his hand otherwise.

His eyes flicker between the hands clasping his own and the other man's face, lips twitching in vague, brief amusement. ]

I'm gliding on magnetic fields, to be more specific. It's part of my innate abilities.

[ Probably closer to flying than levitating, but Erik isn't as particular about semantics. ]

Can you walk, or should I carry you down?

[ Both are viable options. Just down to how much Jaskier wants to look like a damsel in serious distress. ]

— rooms

[heavymetals]

[ Erik is quiet, and he keeps to himself. He may share the living space but it's not unlikely that at least some of his roommates won't even see or notice him for the first few days, only crossing paths with him when he's either coming in or leaving.

Aside from that, whether in his own housing area or while passing by another, he might spot someone struggling to open a particularly heavy door, waving a hand in the air and said door pulling open on its own without any effort. ]

They could have made these easier for us.

[ Well, it's not an issue for him, but anyway. ]

[pathologise]

( she'd been starting to wonder if it was a push door instead of a pull, or maybe just really stuck when he'd come along, opening the door as if it was nothing. embarrassingly, it was the door to her own room (their room, it'd seem) that she'd gotten stuck on )

Thanks. ( not at all embarrassed. well... only mildly ) Maybe everyone that lived here before was stronger?

[heavymetals]

[ It's not that she's not strong or anything. Erik has an unfair advantage here. But he's not doing it for the sake of competition, he's just genuinely trying to help.

Although he now looks more intrigued by the fact that she was trying to open the door to the room he's staying at. ]

The Draconae look fairly stronger than the average human. [ Which he assumes she is, as he hasn't seen evidence to the contrary so far. ] Are you also staying in this room?

[carmesi]

[technically, it should be easy for wanda, too, except she’s currently feeling very frustrated and worried over her boyfriend going off and avoiding her. what is going on with him? one of many questions she can’t sort out, as of yet.

when the door opens, wanda’s about to turn around, tension in her shoulders and a pinched expression, ready to say something rather curt and—perhaps—rude.

except she holds her tongue when she sees it’s erik.

her pinched expression tightens, eyes darting away quickly to make it inside the room instead. she just needs—to take a breath.]

[heavymetals]

[ Erik can immediately tell that something's not right with her. It speaks to the moments they've shared together, or just the sense of kinship they share, but it's not the kind of reaction he would expect from Wanda on a normal day.

He gives her a moment as she steps into the room. Were it someone else, a passing acquaintance or a stranger, he would probably just leave them be and walk away.

Instead, he steps inside, carefully keeping himself a distance away and gentle with his words when he asks. ]

Is there something the matter?

— magma pools

[heavymetals]

[ Erik is sure that the purpose of this trip isn't relaxation, but it's impossible to deny the effect of the magma pools on anyone who decides to take a dip. Well, they're going to be here for a while, so he supposes most everyone is going to bathe at some point.

But after a long day, it does feel good to just sit in the hot pool, feeling his muscles unwind from whatever task he undertook for the day. His liking of this place comes and goes, but he would say this is one point firmly in its favour.

Should someone settle in nearby or get into the pool beside him, he'll acknowledge them with a glance, shifting his left arm just enough that the numbers on his forearm aren't as visible. A good number of the Summoned won't even know what they mean, but still. ]

[nomnoms]

[ The surface of the magma pool appears disturbed by something beneath, ripples indicating movement of something... possibly quite large. So it might seem strange at first when it appears to only be a tiny frog that appears, leaping into the air...

... only to be snatched by the maw of a manshark, surfacing from below with a great splash. He stands up in the middle of the pool, having swallowed the poor creature whole, before noticing someone else is nearby.

Nanaue's flat, black eyes look at the man curiously, and he gives a friendly wave. ]

Tasty!

[ He means the frog, probably. ]

[heavymetals]

[ Erik isn't particularly concerned... yet. He's fairly sure that they would have been warned by now if there was something dangerous lurking in these waters, and no one around seems to be alert or scared.

Still, he's ready for a fight, if need be. There's plenty of metal around for him to make use of, and he trusts his own reflexes to be quick...

--luckily, it looks like he won't need to. There's still a second of surprise there, but then he recognizes the shark... man... creature. He's seen him around Solvunn, and heard about him even before then. Unique as he is, it's only natural that he's so widely known.

He smiles amusedly, returning that wave, and then gesturing to the other frogs around. ]

Do help yourself. I'm a little full.

[beautifullies]

[ Claire's been out gathering and she's exhausted, but only physically. She's been accosted by memories she'd rather forget, and she's heard the magma pools are pleasant. When she enters, there are two people situated together, and it feels too much like intruding, so she slips into the pool with the lone person and takes a moment to take a deep breath, letting out it slowly as she settles. Only then does she open her eyes and offer a small, tired smile.

If a Summond were going to understand the numbers, one of them would be Claire, who was there in the trenches during the war. ]

I hope you don't mind, it's been a long day.

[heavymetals]

[ To expect any sort of privacy here is unreasonable. It's much like a public bath here, and if Erik were to mind sharing the space, then he wouldn't have come here. Or, at least, he would have chosen a time when most Summoned would be asleep.

So, when she addresses him, he just shakes his head. ]

Not at all. There's plenty of room for us both.

[cuckooo]

[ esme had come to bathe off the blue stain that the crystals had left on her hands after listening to the birds screaming at her, but she didn't think she'd come face to face with magneto in the magma pools.

she hovers like an awkward goose a moment before she slips into the water, arm crossing her chest so she can curl her hand around the burn on her bicep as if that will hide the barely healed scar. ]

Hello.

[heavymetals]

[ Being the only place to clean themselves, the magma pools are rarely ever completely deserted. Erik has tried to come here at times when it's a little quieter, at least, but even then there is the occasional Summoned, no doubt thinking the same thing.

Still, he doesn't particularly mind the company. Since it's Esme, he greets her with a nod, his eyes immediately drawn to the injury on her arm. ]

What happened?

— foundry

[heavymetals]

[ There isn't much that catches Erik's eye, but he likes to browse nevertheless. This place is rich in metal, he can sense it all around him, can smell its constant presence surrounding him, and above all else, it's what makes him feel the most comfortable and at ease here.

Rather than purchase any of the finished pieces, he'll ask one of the workers how much for one of the raw metal pieces. Once he has it (and the local's attention), he'll hold it in the palm of his hand, then shape it into an intricate piece with the use of his abilities. Maybe a box, a hairpin, or just a decorative trinket. The local seems to appreciate his ability, and offers him another finished item in exchange for his. ]

That seems like a fair trade.

[assembles]

[ Steve is no blacksmith himself, but he's befriended a few over the years, finding that skillset particularly useful when his main weapon is a metal shield. The magic of Abraxas has helped him to use a shield that isn't made of vibranium while tricking it into behaving like it is, but that's mainly in how it moves through the air, bouncing back to him no matter where he throws it.

But the ability for the shield to absorb any blow that comes at it, no matter how strong? That he can't just fake with magic practice. For that reason, he does wander over to the foundry after he's taken in most of the Obsidian Heart, curious to see if they have any special metals that he hasn't been able to find in other parts of Abraxas.

As he wanders the marketplace, window-shopping for now, he happens to witness an interesting exchange. He doesn't recognize the man who shapes metal with little more than a thought, turning something plain into an ornate trinket, but that sort of power is eye-catching. The stranger clearly isn't one of the Draconae, which means that he must be a fellow Summoned.

Once the transaction seems to have completed, Steve steps over. ]

You made that look easy. [ Of course, he's curious to know how the stranger managed to reshape metal like it was nothing — no forge or hammer required. ]

[heavymetals]

[ Having earned himself a small box, he puts it in his pocket and straightens, looking at the man who's just addressed him. ]

To me, it is easy.

[ It's one of the very few things he doesn't mind talking about himself. Quite the contrary, he's proud of his abilities, and he's spent long enough pretending he had none. ]

I can control and shape metal to my will.

[bestfuneralever]

[Along with the local, the guy has also managed to catch Klaus' attention. He watches as the metal twists and reshapes in his hands, an intrigued look on his features.]

Well, that's a fancy gift you've got, there.

[He's never seen a power quite like that, none of his siblings could manipulate anything physical in such a way, so it's fascinating in the same way people find street magic fascinating.]

— featherhive

[heavymetals]

[ He's no healer, and as much as he doesn't mind helping in other ways, he feels fairly useless until he gets a chance to gather some ingredients. It's about the only thing of use when it pertains to the actual cure, and he's not worried about the unwelcoming environment. He can handle himself just fine.

However, it's not the environment itself that proves to be more challenging. It's the birds flying close to him, landing on branches in his path. They parrot disjointed lines that he can't process at first, until they're stringed together into full sentences. ]

So much more— [ The scattered words are interrupted by another bird, this time more articulate. ] There is so much more to you than you know.

[ It doesn't take Erik long to understand what is happening. For the most part, they're memories he can ignore and keep walking— ]

We have it in us to be the better man. [ Another bird replies: ] We already are.

I've been at the mercy of men just following orders. Never again.

[ But then, there are memories, words that sink in a little deeper, like claws, daggers buried into flesh. ]

Here's what we're going to do. I'm going to count to three...
...and you're going to move the coin.
You don't move the coin, I pull the trigger.
Understand?

[ He grits his teeth, and walks faster, ignoring the birds this time, but not the next one. ]

I'm not letting them take you! I'm not letting them take you!

[ Rage and grief rise suddenly, and Erik yells, waving a hand violently in the air. Whatever piece of metal he can find around, maybe a blade or a simple trinket, flies rapidly against the bird. It vanishes into thin air. It'll probably come back, but at least for now, it's not talking anymore. ]

[thedreamer]

[ There are a few reasons the Doctor has dared to tread this path again, the most important being that as many ingredients are needed as they can possibly collect, and he both needs to help and needs to stay busy. He's aware by now what lurks in these lands, his own memories having been pulled to the surface and exposed without his consent, but as he often does, the Doctor has compartmentalized the pain of it and reasoned if it happens again, he's far better prepared.

More importantly, there's a chance others might fall prey to the birds before being warned, and he'd rather not see someone suffer alone if he can help it.

He's careful in his approach, having heard most of what was echoed and painfully aware he's walking into a veritable open wound just now. His hands are held out in front of him, his steps slow. ]

Hello there, I'm the Doctor. Nasty business, those birds.

[ For once, he's remarkably aware the less said right now, the better. ]

[familysucks]

[They're not supposed to be out here alone, but like Erik, Michael is confident in his ability to take care of himself. Archangels are nothing if not arrogant. Even without their restorative aura, what concern is toxic air to someone who doesn't need to breathe? There seems to be no other barrier between them and the crystals they're meant to be gathering.

Sure, the wildlife's annoying, but even the nicest beach has seagulls.

Though he's set his mind on a solo venture, the sound of someone else nearby—more accurately, the sound of someone being harassed by shadowy avian mimics—attracts his attention. Michael wanders into view just in time to catch the glint of metal flying through the air, its target suddenly dissipating.]

Satisfying in the moment, though be warned: do it too often and they'll pick their words with intent. They recognize an insult.

[Which is the other reason he's out here on his own. It's irritating enough that others might overhear a past he doesn't care to share; it's worse that shooing them makes the birds mean.

Behind him, a bird lands atop an ancient rib poking out of the ground. It puffs up its throat and croaks Free will's an illusion, Dean.]

— anthusa

[heavymetals]

[ Everything he learns about this place seems entirely surreal. It started with the magic, the gods, the unique creatures. Despite all he's seen in his life, he never thought he'd meet a dragon.

It's certainly an experience. He's not bothered by it, but he's not sure how he feels otherwise. It's easy to dedicate himself to a more physical task, though. Handling the little hatchlings isn't that difficult, and he's glad for the distraction, after his time in Featherhive.

For whatever reason, the weakest of the hatchlings takes a liking to him, and despite any attempts Erik might make at denying it, the feeling is mutual. After acting mostly like he's doing the bare minimum, he'll eventually be seen carrying the baby around in his arms or shoulders, playing with it and singing German lullabies to it. He even uses his abilities to help the creature higher in the air, creating magnetic fields that make both him and the hatchling levitate in the air, able to release it so it feels as though it really is flying. ]

[hatejakku]

[ Finn manages to catch them in the middle of one such levitation session. He hadn't seen someone fly before, not like that, so of course it catches his attention and leads him to walking closer. But once Finn sees what's going on, sees Anthusa fly seemingly on his own, it makes him smile wide.

The tiny dragons have attracted Finn's attention, too, and he's bonded quite a lot with Anthusa during their time here. He's wanted to help the small dragon, has been largely unsure how, and ultimately felt helpless aside from keeping the little guy company.

But this- ]

Look at you! You're doing great!

[ He's talking to the hatchling, of course, giving the dragon a little wave while it happily rolls around freely in the air. ]