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abraxaslogs2023-10-15 08:13 am
abraxasmods) wrote in abraxaslogs2023-10-15 08:13 am
Entry tags:
- !event,
- !npc,
- abby littman; the lovers,
- adora; strength,
- adrienne peters; the empress,
- aerith gainsborough; the sun,
- aloy; the hermit,
- altaïr ibn-la'ahad; the magician,
- alucard; the hierophant,
- arthur hastings; the hanged man,
- astarion ancunín; the wheel of fortune,
- bay kennish; the star,
- cal kestis; the hanged man,
- captain jack harkness; the hanged man,
- castiel; the hanged man,
- cirilla of cintra; the devil,
- claire fraser; the empress,
- claude von riegan; the wheel of fortune,
- clive rosfield; the tower,
- dan heng; the high priestess,
- dante; the devil,
- dean winchester; the lovers,
- diana prince; the empress,
- dion lesage; the emperor,
- eddie munson; the devil,
- erik lehnsherr; the hermit,
- finn; strength,
- geralt of rivia; the hanged man,
- haelva lueltar; the magician,
- hilda goneril; the lovers,
- himeka sui; the fool,
- inej ghafa; the hierophant,
- istredd; the high priestess,
- james t. kirk; the tower,
- jaskier; the sun,
- jesper fahey; the wheel of fortune,
- jill warrick; death,
- jo harvelle; strength,
- john blake; the tower,
- jonathan crane; the magician,
- julia wicker; the tower,
- julie lawry; the wheel of fortune,
- kell maresh; the magician,
- kelson haldane; the tower,
- kyle; the hanged man,
- lord john grey; justice,
- lucifer; the devil,
- michael; the emperor,
- nanaue; the fool,
- nathan drake; the fool,
- norman jayden; the hermit,
- rey; the star,
- rhy maresh; the lovers,
- rocket; the chariot,
- sam wilson; justice,
- sandor clegane; strength,
- sephiroth; the tower,
- stephen strange; death,
- steve harrington; the lovers,
- steve rogers; the hierophant,
- thancred waters; strength,
- the doctor; the fool,
- urianger augurelt; death,
- viktor; death,
- wanda maximoff; the hanged man,
- wrench; the hanged man,
- wylan van eck; the magician,
- yennefer of vengerberg; the chariot
EVENT #15: THE NETHER - IC EVENT LOG
Event #15 - The Nether
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Only one meeting is required. The Nether will give you their final answer the following day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
◎ Cinder's Core
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.◎ Featherhive
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.
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.◎ Aetherie
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.
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!
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
no subject
[ This is repeated purely for scientific benefit, clearly, and as if Viktor didn't just watch him make a fool of himself in that barely-even-an-attempt at cleaning up. Still, might as well be complete in whatever documentation happens here. That would've made Linhardt proud, he's pretty sure, though the mage would've also immediately told him to stop touching everything. Probably.
Better to not follow that thought any further and instead focus on the present where Viktor has his hand out, and Claude scoops the crystal back up from the table where he'd dropped it to place it in the other man's hand. ]
What I do know is we don't want to get any liquid near - [ with a gesture towards the crystal - ] or on that, if the warnings I've received are anything to go by. Might make it a little difficult to wash our hands here shortly.
[ He has no idea if that's actually true, but it's an entertaining thought and more importantly: he's got a spare pair of gloves in his bag he reaches for in case Viktor wants them after all. ]
no subject
It will help, he thinks, to know what Claude has already discovered.]
What happened?
[Just so he can assess whether or not he wants to do it anyway.]
Or, rather, what did they warn you about?
no subject
Oh, hm, what was it - [ between the exploding seeds and the crystals there's a bit of mental notes on his research to recall, though it only takes him a second - ] Something about if you get liquid on them, apparently they emit a smell that's rather horrendous.
[ Another pause, then with a mildly mischievous look to Viktor since he's all for embracing a test in the name of figuring this out: ]
Not that I've seen it or smelled it for myself. But we could always use this, [ as he reaches for a clear glass bowl with a flat rim that'd lay safely sealed on top of the table, ] to put a chunk of crystal beneath and see what happens.
no subject
I suppose we should avoid it.
[He supposes. Claude doesn't necessarily seem opposed, but they aren't the only ones in this alchemy lab. He'll be cautious. For now.]
We could see what other kinds of magic might activate it. Do you know any spells?
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[ Something about courtesy or whatever else along those lines would be fitting here for a variety of reasons, and so Claude flips the bowl over to its correct position before sitting it back down to await a use. There's always the exploding seeds to keep experimenting around with after what he'd worked on with Wylan providing some good ideas.
Said good ideas also include more tests, and he nods as a first response to that question. ]
I know a couple of wind spells and healing ones I learned back in Fodlan, though I've been working on some magic here, too. The healing spells seems like they might be most fitting given what we're doing here, but I can start with whichever once you're all set up.
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Yes, healing seems appropriate. Perhaps, depending on the crystal's reaction, we can figure out how to use it as an amplifier.
[Perhaps that's wishful thinking--they won't know until they try. Viktor uses the tongs to set the crystal carefully into a rig, taking a step backward once it's secure.]
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[ Something Lysithea would enjoy having back at home, Claude's positive, for all the things she could manage to do with that. Including aiming bolts of magic his way with ever more potency than she already has, and the briefest wistful smile crosses his face before he focuses on what's actually going on here.
Which is that crystal Viktor's set up, and that means there's nothing to do but spend a second contemplating which spell to send out. The stronger one of the two he knows, definitely, and he calls it forth with a modest flash of light, and - nothing happens.
Or so it seems when the crystal looks intact enough aside from something he can't tell is a flaw already in it or a new crack thanks to Recover. He'll ready another spell just in case another burst of magic following it will help after the investigation. ]
Seems normal so far. Want me to hit it again?
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[Speaking of, Viktor gestures for Claude to go ahead, pencil in hand and poised over his notebook for anything worth recording. He watches carefully, gaze attentive as Claude unleashes his first spell, eyebrows furrowing when there’s nothing observable right away.
Still, when the magic fades, Viktor gives a thorough inspection of the crystal, scrawls a few things on a piece of paper, and steps back again.]
Yes, try it again. Something stronger this time.
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Speaking of that: after Viktor's examination he nods and holds a hand up again. Claude concentrates - and maybe wishes he'd listened to Lysithea's lectures on spellcasting a bit more than tuning out - and thinks about the possibility of an amplifier. It brings to mind whatever'd happened around the dragon to intensify his wind spells into something much more damaging, but maybe that's a side effect of the Singularity. That tangent leads into another one as he focuses and calls forth the spell again with his hand much closer to the crystal.
Or tries to, but what happens rather than a burst of light signaling Recover is an impossibly cold breeze that wraps itself around the crystal and leaves it shrouded in ice which grows from the center outward to cover it in frost. ]
I-- huh.
[ Whatever he was going to say is (for once) lost to his astonishment since not even Claude has something ready to say now. Instead he stares at the frozen shards wrapping around the crystal with icy tendrils creeping along the tabletop beneath it with an honest expression of surprise on his face before reaching to tap it tentatively. It's definitely ice with what was on the table itself already melting, and he glances to Viktor next. ]
Can't say I've ever done that before.
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What's more surprising is that Claude seems surprised. Viktor's hand is poised over his notebook, though he doesn't write anything just yet.]
Did you mean to do the ice, at least?
[Maybe that had been the intent, and he just didn't expect the intensity.]
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[ Of those who knew spells back in Fodlan, the list of those who'd master ice magic was even smaller than most other areas. It'd been the sort of thing which had fascinated him in the abstract way all research topics had (and still do), but when actually applying himself to magic had taken more effort than seemed worthwhile for what else he'd wanted to focus on, well. That was the end of that.
Or so Claude thought, but now as he stares at the ice covering the table and touching a couple more frozen solid spots, that's confirmation enough: that's a lot of ice. ]
Or I should say it's not something I knew in Fodlan. I'd wanted to learn spells for it here but never made time just yet. Seems like something decided I should know anyway.
[ Just to be sure, Claude picks up the bowl he'd had earlier and touches it. Nothing happens at first - not until he concentrates and then frost starts to form around where the bowl's base meets the table. Definitely frozen. ]
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[Perhaps now is not a great time to be testing out previously-unknown powers, but Viktor will allow Claude the moment. It's good, too, to test it on neutral ground like the bowl, to make sure the crystal isn't interfering. He watches, carefully, still finding the expression of magic to be beautiful.]
How does it feel?
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Then again, it is on the warm side in here. Claude conjures up a small breeze with his hand held over the crystal to move the room's air over it. That'll likely be enough to help with defrosting. ]
Not that different from the magic I know, just to add another strange element to it and to make it more confusing when I'd reached for another spell entirely. I could've used this while gardening out on our rooftop during the height of summer, but better late than never. I don't suppose you have any solutions around here from other experiments that might need to be frozen?
[ Partially a suggestion made to be useful, and possibly also because it might not hurt to keep experimenting. Probably. ]
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He finds himself distracted, and turns his attention back to Claude, and his explanation.]
What spell were you trying/I> to perform?
[And is there a reason, that the Singularity might have compelled Claude to conjure ice, instead?]
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[ Which offers just about nothing by way of an answer, he thinks, even if it's what he'd intended to do as he watches Viktor's blow torch do a far faster job of clearing up the ice. Why would Recover be swapped for something, something as easy (relatively speaking) to call as what else he knows? If it was really that simple, then surely he could've learned it back at the academy. It doesn't seem to make any sort of sense.
Or perhaps it's that he'd rather it wouldn't once it occurs to him what it could be, even if it's a complete guess with a grimace paired with it before he reaches to sweep a partially melted piece of ice away from the crystal. ]
I know another spell I didn't before coming here where that one is more related to astronomy, so that was a nice alignment with my interests or so I thought. The only time I've been around much ice since arriving here was- after the Pit, when we made it out only to end up in the avalanche.
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[Viktor doesn't have an answer either. Maybe it's the Singularity itself, altering Claude's intention to alert him to this new power. That's more interesting to him than the crystal, at this point, though he hasn't forgotten about their task.]
I've...heard of powers manifesting in relation to various experiences. It could be this is a direct result of your escape from imprisonment, and the environment in which it happened.
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I've talked to a couple others about things they've had show up, for lack of a better term, but it didn't occur to me to ask if they were related. Seems difficult to not pin this on being on that mountainside. [ Something he'd rather not remember, but there seems to be a permanent reminder of it now. With that comes replaying what Viktor's said before glancing up at the other man curiously. ] When you say you've heard of it, do you mean with other Summoned or from something else?
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[That said, he doesn't necessarily want to dwell on the experiences of those who were kidnapped. He imagines it's not a pleasant memory, for Claude.]
We seems to be receptive, to the magic of this world, given our connection to the Singularity. It follows that our abilities are shaped accordingly.
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[ There's almost certainly a better explanation or association than that, vaguely linked together as he's made it in that sentence, but it's something Claude's considered more than once while looking for reasons for everything happening. ]
The first thing, or rather the only other thing I have that's not from home that I found by accident was when I was cleaning my mirror back at the inn and suddenly the night sky was there. I spent a lot of time studying the stars as a kid so I could see the logic, assuming... that's where it came from. That or I should've been an astronomer this whole time and now's my chance.
and so they zapped the crystal a thousand times the end
[Viktor smiles at his own joke--or maybe he's just pleased by the progress they're making. It might be a few more tries before they're able to find a use for the crystals, but its responsiveness to magic is heartening.
And, if Claude discovers something about himself along the way, Viktor will not object to learning. He gives an affirmative nod.]
Let's go again.