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

[satanicpanics]

Probably.

[ He smiles easily, not missing a step when she slips her arm through his. He lets her lead the way, though, because he’s pretty out of his depth in the Foundry and actually has no idea where he’s going. ]

Because this killer idea is gonna give you a chance to show off your talents and me a chance to show off mine.

[ And he’s never going to miss an opportunity to show off. ]

I’ve got concept sketches, but uh…two words. Sword guitar.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Truth be told, she’s wandering a little aimlessly too. There hadn’t been a particular destination in mind aside from the list of stores that she had to visit if she were interested in metalwork that she was slowly working her way through.

Besides, getting lost in the shops and stalls with Eddie didn’t sound like an awful way to spend an afternoon.

At the mention of her talents, Hilda almost denies it but manages to hold her tongue somehow because out of all the things to come out of Eddie’s mouth she hadn’t expected that. She blinks several times. ]

You mean you want to create those two different objects as one thing?

[satanicpanics]

Bingo.

[ He grins, practically bouncing on the balls of his feet as they stroll. However strange his idea is, he obviously is very excited about it. ]

Look—

[ He pauses to slip his hand into a pocket and pulls out a scrap of paper which he unfolds it with a flourish. On it, he’s drawn detailed sketches of…well, exactly what he said: a sword that’s been fitted with a guitar’s hardware, complete with bat wings near the hilt for flair because he’s a parody of himself. ]

Guitar sword. I don't know how good it's gonna sound, but uh...that's for future Eddie to worry about. Think you can help me?

[theidlemaiden]

[ Seeing the bat wings makes her wonder not for the first time if he likes bats. It might not be a stretch considering he's got a tattoo of them on his arm. And with them being a permanent fixture on his skin, why would he get something that he didn't like? That would be silly wouldn't it? 

Bat wings aside Hilda turns her attention towards the rest of the design with bright curious eyes. Despite her upbeat demeanor, she's always been good at being realistic about circumstances. Aside from seeing Eddie's guitar, she's never handled one herself so she can't say for certain how exactly it would work. Someone once upon a time had explained the mechanics of a lute to her. And while most of it had gone over her head if she thought long and hard about it dug deep into her memories, it didn't work anything like a sword.

If Eddie were Claude she wouldn't have had as gentle of an approach to telling him so - but there's something so bright and eager to Eddie's excitement that she can't bear the thought of being the rain cloud on his parade. But asking realistic questions isn't that. Hopefully the amusement in her voice is enough to show that he's clearly going to win her over eventually. ] 

Are you trying to fight with it or use it as instrument? Or both?

[satanicpanics]

[ It may be a wild and outlandish idea in and of itself, but Eddie isn’t completely delusional. He’s well aware that can either have a guitar that looks cool, or a weapon that’s likely not very usable. ]

To be totally straight with you, it’s mostly just to play and look cool. But, uh…if you told me I could use it as a weapon in a pinch? I wouldn’t say no. Same as a normal guitar, honestly.

[ He flashes a thousand watt smile that literally no one could possibly say no to, even if he were asking the impossible. Which he isn’t! He knows there are some limitations. ]

And I mean, I know guitars. I wouldn’t make you do it all on your own.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Her cheeks puff up before she lets out a huff. She’s not not won over by the smile. Then again], she had also been willing to help him before he flashed her that smile. If he knew the sort of power he had over her she’d be in trouble. ] 

Well obviously I’d expect you to help. This isn’t just a one woman project you know! 

[ There is however, some undeniable relief upon hearing that Eddie isn’t expecting her to work on this all by herself nor that this was a commission of some sort. Making accessories and an ornamental corset on a whim when she felt like it is one thing. But making a full weapon and instrument? Both of those things were completely outside of her wheelhouse. ] 

Alright, I’ll help you. I saw some of the community forges this way that I’m sure we could use if we find some scrap metal for the sword portion. What made you want to do this anyway? 

[satanicpanics]

Obviously. You think I’m gonna let someone who doesn’t know guitars work on this without the aid of someone who does?

[ He rolls his eyes, but that grin still hasn’t faded. It's all a joke, and her help is obviously appreciated. ]

Well, it came to me in a dream.

[ He gives her a pointed look, because he hopes that serves as proof enough that he does sleep, thank you very much. It’s probably not as much sleep as he probably should be getting, but it’s sleep all the same. ]

And…I dunno, I just got kind of obsessed with the idea. A lot of guitars end up just as famous as the guys who play them--just for the way they look or sound, and it’s not always what you expect. And the instruments just become these icons in their own right, you know? I guess I just wanted something special. And why the hell not, right?

[theidlemaiden]

Well I don't know. Some people ask some really silly things. Maybe you were trying to test me to see how well I was paying attention to your "axe" skills or it was payback for being an awful awful axe tutor. 

[ Contrary to her words it would take a fair bit more to dissuade her from not helping him see this quest through even if it were any of the reasons that she had rattled off. They continue meandering their way through the throngs of incredibly tall Draconae, finding herself nodding even though she doesn't really have any frame of reference for these famous guitar guys. But while she might not have that particular frame of reference, she does know what he means by someone being recognizable by an instrument. Well, sort of. Swap in a weapon for an instrument and it's essentially the same concept. 

Teasingly she gives him a little elbow nudge. ]
 
Does that mean you're going to try and give Jaskier a run for his money? Or maybe there's a collaboration in your future?

[satanicpanics]

You’re not an awful axe tutor.

[ He looks genuinely surprised that she’d say that about herself, because he’s well aware that he would have absolutely no knowledge on properly using the weapon otherwise. His true love is always going to be music, but he likes having the ability to defend himself as well, and he wouldn’t really have that if not for Hilda. ]

I mean, you’re kind of my only reference for what an axe tutor should be but…I’d give you a five out of ten.

[ He grins, giving her a light nudge right back. Obviously she gets more than five out of ten in his book, but he can’t not toss a joke in. ]

Isn’t Jaskier a pretty big deal in the Free Cities? Yeah, I dunno about that. Solvunn isn’t really like that. I performed for them once after the whole...mushroom thing? I’m pretty sure I traumatized a couple of the locals.

[theidlemaiden]

A five out of ten?

[ Joke or not her mouth drops open with only the faintest hint of mild offence like she hadn't put herself down so lightly. It's immediately followed by a puff of her cheeks making her look vaguely like a pufferfish. ]

That's the last time I tutor you!

[ It soon gives way to a barely concealed smile however. ]

Traumatized them? [ An eyebrow arches. It's difficult to believe that anything would be more traumatizing than the mushrooms, the cultists and that display from the Gods. ] Oh, Eddie, don't tell me that you played that really loud music for them without any warning!

[satanicpanics]

Mmm...denying me further education…

[ He pretends to rethink it, and with a wide grin, continues: ]

Gonna call that a four out of ten.

[ He practically cackles, nearly slamming into a group of particularly statuesque Draconae. He slips his arm out of Hilda’s just in time to avoid them and joins her again on the other side of them with another grin. ]

Okay, maybe traumatized is a strong word. Just...shook them up a bit, you know? [ The look on his face says it all, though. ] It wasn't that loud.

[theidlemaiden]

[ As soon as he cackles, Hilda's cheeks puff out even further as she reaches out to give him a swat - only to narrowly miss swatting a very tall Dracaone square in the chest. Her cheeks flare pink, stuttering out an apology. Thankfully it's met with a bemused expression that she returns with a sheepish grin before she rushes forward to escape her embarrassment and catch back up to Eddie. 

When they do reunite on the other side of the group, she finally lands her retaliatory flick into his shoulder. ]

That's for the poor Solvunnites.

[ And for docking her another point from her imaginary axe tutor ranking. They turn down the street towards the community forge she had passed earlier, tugging him along inside. The forges and fires burn bright and hot, the air in here warmer than the streets outside. Clanking and clashing of hammers meeting iron fill the air. ]

Maybe next time you could give them a bit of a warning. Or once we make you this guitar sword you could ask Jaskier for some pointers about not startling your crowd in the bad way.

[satanicpanics]

I’ll let them know. I’m sure they’d thank you.

[ He only laughs again, both at her reaction and the look on his face, and endures the flick because he kind of deserves it. ]

Nothing wrong with the element of surprise.

[ He leans in a little closer and raises his voice above the clatter, just to make sure he’s heard. ]

But, you know, I guess if some people like to play it safe…

[ He doesn’t know anything about Jaskier’s performance style, and he’s teasing more than anything, but it sounds like they wouldn’t exactly mesh. Eddie may like to think of himself something of a bard, but he still fits firmly into the “accidentally biting a bat’s head off on stage” category of performer. ]

Not sure a guitar sword exactly screams safe, though.

[theidlemaiden]

[ That’s met with a roll of her eyes. She doesn’t really want her presence made known any more than it has even if what he'd said had been in a joking manner that she didn't take seriously. Years of expectation had kept her avoidance of acknowledgment razor sharp and it would take a miracle to dull that down.

She weaves through the tall bodies until they reach the scrap metal in the back. Hopefully there's something for them to work with back here. The goal isn't to come away with something completely viable but at the very least a starting point. ]

You're right it doesn't. But it does scream something that's for sure.

[ Anything that has some potential is picked out of the pile and handed over to him. A thoughtful look crosses her face. ]

If we make the sword part, did you have any ideas on how we'd make the guitar part? Are we going about this backwards?

[satanicpanics]

It screams metal as hell, that’s what it screams.

[ Solvunn’s more pastoral lifestyle clearly hasn’t dampened Eddie’s flair for the dramatics. He reels himself in in some regards; he never insults the Solvunnites’ close ties to religion, for example, as he’s fairly certain that would be one of the worst things you could possibly do. But just because they like to keep things simple doesn’t mean he has to. ]

Honestly, I think we might have to work together for a bit, which—awful, I know.

[ He presses his hand to his chest and flashes another teasing grin before he allows his arms to be piled up with more scrap metal. ]

But I have a pretty decent idea of how to build a guitar. I mean, I’ve never done it, but…guys used to make them out of cigar boxes, so how hard can it be, right?

[ If anything, he knows the important parts that make up a guitar and what makes it work the way it does. ]

But I’d like to make sure it doesn’t sound like complete shit, and I think part of that is gonna require teamwork. At least at first.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Timing is a funny thing because at that very moment she has several more pieces of viable steel in her hands and she can't help but dissolve into laughter. ]

I don't even know what that means. How does metal scream?

[ The thing with having friends from other worlds, other times, means encountering ways of speech that she has no frame of reference for. Rarely is it frustrating for her to navigate these moments - more often than not she ends up finding pure enjoyment in them because it means she can add more of it to her own vernacular if she finds it funny enough.

She pulls a face at the mention of them having to work together, a little, "Ugh," fluttering from her lips. It has no heat behind it though and is quickly dissolves into a laugh. ]

At least one of us is confident about their part of this little project. [ With enough metal gathered she nudges them towards an empty forge and anvil. ] I just don't want you to ruin the guitar if you have to use the sword. That's what I'm the most worried about.

[satanicpanics]

[ He’s never really had to explain the phrasing of “metal” to someone. Bad home, he tended to just inherently hang out with fellow metalheads. And if they weren’t metalheads when they met him, they were likely to be drawn in after a month or two. ]

It’s just…it’s a way of saying that something is cool. Like, so awesome, the only comparison is metal—as in the music. As in the loud type of music that permanently scarred half of Solvunn.

[ He laughs when she pulls a face, and just rolls his eyes in response. He has absolutely no qualms with working with her on this, but it would be wrong of him to pretend like he doesn’t. ]

Well…we can just call it an “in case of emergencies” weapon. Worry-free situation. Or-- [ He and his armful of scrap metal follow her towards the forge, peering over the top of it to avoid stumbling into something. ] And I know you'll forgive me for making this more complicated, but we could always figure out a way to make it convertible. Like--like a Transformer or something. [ No, he does not have a less 80s reference than that. ]

[theidlemaiden]

Eddie, I know we're from different worlds but you really should come with some kind of dictionary, you know that?

[ They could probably, once again, debate endlessly and fruitlessly about what constitutes cool but if the amusement in her voice is any indication, she's more than happy to agree to disagree in this particular instance.

Tossing him an apron she mulls over the suggestion before slipping her own on and tying her hair up into a quick bun. It goes without saying that she doesn't know what a Transformer is but if he's talking about converting something then...maybe it has something to do with, well, transformation. ]

You could be onto something. But I don't think I know any kind of magic that could turn a guitar into a sword. We might have to actually read some books. [ The boring and complicated kind - a gross thought really. ] In the meantime we could make the edges of the neck dull so you won't cut your hand if you're playing it.

[ See, she has been retaining some kind of knowledge. ]

First thing's first though. Can you hand me the tongs? We have to heat up the metal and I think this one should be long enough to work.

[satanicpanics]

You’d be surprised, but I get that a lot.

[ He chuckles and ties the apron behind his back, but he even follows suit and ties his own hair back. Not a common thing for him and he’s not the one handling the fire and smoldering metal, but he knows from nearly catching fire a handful of times in chemistry class that it’s probably for the best. ]

Hey, whatever the expert thinks is gonna work best right now.

[ He contemplates asking Wanda about that, just because it seems like she can do anything with her magic, but he finds himself somewhat doubtful that her ability extends to the exact sort of transformative magic they’re looking for.

He grabs the tongs and snaps them together like a pair of jaws a couple times before he hands them over. Like anyone would do when presented with a pair of tongs, of course. ]

I'm guessing you don't need any help with this part.

[theidlemaiden]

Me? An expert?

[ There's no put on humbleness in her voice even if it's said with a laugh. If anything she sounds a little baffled that he's choosing that word to describe what she's trying to help him with even if she can assume that he's teasing. Serious or not it sends a prickle of worry through her that she tries her best to ignore.

The clang of the metal is accompanied by an amused look as she holds out the metal towards him. ]

Well actually I was going to ask if you wanted to do it. I could walk you through it. You really just have to hold it to the forge and make sure that it gets heated to the right temperature. From there we can shape it.

[satanicpanics]

Well, more of an expert than I am.

[ He doesn’t mean to put any pressure on her shoulders, he just means that she has more experience with this than he does. Eddie has amassed a collection of skills over the years—a lot of odds and ends that he isn’t particularly practiced or mastered at, but he’s never been given the opportunity to try something like this. ]

Seriously?

[ He raises his eyebrows, but he reaches out to grip the piece of metal with his tongs-jaws. ]

I mean, sure. Just gonna have to cross your fingers that I don't catch fire.

[theidlemaiden]

Why not? People feel more accomplished when they work on their own projects, right? 

[ At least...that's what she's been told because it's not like she's got any personal experience with feeling a sense of accomplishment after finishing up her own projects. ]

And it's not like you're going to be sticking your entire body in there, Eddie. Besides, I think the most flammable part of you is your hair and I know you're not going to be silly enough to stick your head in there. 

[ Before stepping aside she passes him some goggles before slipping her own over her eyes. The coals in the furance are already burning bright, the heat from it rolling off them in waves. ] 

We'll know it's hot enough when it's yellow. 

[satanicpanics]

Usually, yeah. Good point.

[ He pulls the goggles over his eyes, taking a moment to arrange his hair so it isn’t stuck underneath and probably most likely won’t catch fire. ]

Hey, you don’t know what my body is gonna see as appropriate in this scenario.

[ He’s not particularly clumsy, really, just tall and noodle-like and if he could make the comparison to one of those inflatable guys that sit outside of car dealerships, he would. But he has a steady hand, and falling into the furnace is not going to be particularly high on the list of things that could conceivably happen.

It’s still a little unnerving, though, to be so close to the flames. It briefly calls to mind a traumatic experience with a house fire and a deadbeat father, but he pushes that aside quickly and focuses on his work heating the metal. He manages to not catch on fire, but he does glance at Hilda every now and then to make certain he’s not totally screwing this up.

He nearly jumps when he sees the steel turning a bright, glowing yellow, and hesitantly pulls away from the flames. ]

Now, right? [ It better be now, because the steel is already out. ] Now what?

[theidlemaiden]

Well this is my warning to your body not to do something silly like that because I'm not going to drag you back out! 

[ Except that's an empty threat. She'd absolutely haul his ass back out of a furnace if for whatever reason he found himself falling into it. Her silence says as much as she hovers just behind his shoulder watching the metal slowly begin to heat up. Any glance that Eddie tosses her way is met with an encouraging little thumbs up and bright smile, or offering him a little direction like making sure to bury the metal deep enough so that an even heat was applied to it. He hadn't dropped the metal - or himself - into the fire so as far as she's concerned he's passing this little impromptu lesson with flying colours.
When he pulls the metal out she ushers him towards the anvil. ] 

Put it here and we'll shape it next. We'll make the blade the handle and I'll just round the edges off so you don't cut yourself. 

[ There's not much time to contemplate asking him if he wants to do this part - the heat rolling off the metal would eventually cool and they'd have to reheat it again - so with only a beat of hesitation she gets to work hammering out the shape and tapering off the edges into a point. Eventually what starts to emerge is a distinctly blade-like shape. ] 

Is this sort of what you had in mind? 

[satanicpanics]

[ And his response of a vague and distant “mmhm” shows that he absolutely doesn’t believe her. Luckily in the end, neither of them have to worry about it because he doesn’t fall in.

He beams as he’s ushered towards the anvil, more than pleased with himself for not flubbing up the one job he was given to do—because he doesn’t expect to be given the job of hammering the metal out. He knows it’s quick, and he assumes skilled work. Instead, he just hovers over Hilda’s shoulder as she works, eyes growing wide in awe as a blade takes shape right before him. ]

Yeah…yeah, that’s good. I’ve got no complaints.