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

[heavymetals]

[ Erik gives the man a more lingering look this time, almost scrutinizing in the way his eyes move up and down. That sounds a little conceited to Erik, but that's an observation he keeps to himself. This is not the place or time to alienate the only other person around.

Besides, if he's here, that's double the memories for the birds to centre on. ]

Very well. [ Doctor it is, it seems. ] Erik Lehnsherr.

[ He could have just not shared a name, it's not like he's feeling particularly inclined to chat right now. Certainly not as eager to do it as this man seems to be. ]

You'll forgive me if I'm not in the mood to quote books right now. [ And if he has a favorite, he doesn't really feel like sharing it either. ] Let's just keep walking. We can ignore them.

Well. He can try, that's for certain.

sorry for the delay!

[thedreamer]

Glad to meet you, though — obviously, I wish under better circumstances.

[ Not only for the memories shared without consent, but the whole purpose of their being in the Nether at all. As ever, though, he hopes to be of use. ]

Ignoring them, sure, that'll work. [ Despite his being sarcastic, he almost manages to sound like he sincerely believes it. ]

They do seem persistent, but we'll try your way!

[ A hint of his usual optimism is in his voice, and he'll follow along with Erik while hoping for the best. It isn't long before the birds reappear behind them, though. And it's the Doctor's memories, a brief conversation that starts with his voice saying, "I can explain. Tell them why I had to." And then Amy, "You want to be forgiven." "Don't we all?" The memory of Amy's voice is devastating, to say the least, but the Doctor is good at masking that. At least for now. ]

Too much to ask that they would echo good memories, I suppose.

no problem

[heavymetals]

[ Erik's got a degree on sarcasm, so how dare you think he wouldn't notice that. He absolutely did. Does it help? Not really, no. But it's also a trait he appreciates in others, so it's a little conflicting.

But at least, the next bird that comes back doesn't do so for him. It might not have helped to lash out, but it has given him a moment to calm himself, to gather some energy so he's better prepared to deal with the next one that comes. ]

They latch onto pain. Feed off of it, I would imagine. [ He glances at the Doctor, then at his bird. ] They've purposefully dug into my memories, seeking the ones that would draw the most intense reaction from me.

[thedreamer]

If we had enough time, I'd stay here alone to study them. Understand them better.

[ Try and stop them, if such a thing were possible. Then again, they've existed here for a long while. This is their purpose, seemingly, which would make them more challenging to overcome. He wouldn't want anyone else in harm's way, of course, but his insatiable curiosity compels him to seek knowledge where he can.

As they talk and walk, the Doctor keeps turning over what he heard of the other man's memories. I've been at the mercy of men just following orders. There are any number of horrors he might have gone through, but those words in particular stand out. Just following orders implies...military, police, someone with authority, enacting some sort of twisted justice out of so-called duty.

I'm not letting them take you —

It's little wonder he lashed out as he did. And focusing on what tormented him means the Doctor can forget about his own memories for the moment. ]

The pain seems to be the point, unfortunately. The greater, the better. Like an echo — perhaps they draw some sort of power from it, the more intense it is. [ Trying to understand it grounds him. To the extent it can be understood at all. ] Small mercies, I suppose, that we're not alone for it.

[heavymetals]

You would?

[ It seems wild, to Erik. He wouldn't spend another second longer than he had to near these birds. The way he says it, he assumes that he must be a scientist of some sort. It would explain the Doctor thing, at the very least. ]

It wouldn't surprise me if they did. With the way things work in this place. [ Abraxas in general, he means. ]

Not being alone comes with the unfortunate downside that others will bear witness to your pain. I recall my worst memories all too clearly. I don't like strangers learning of them like this. You must agree with the sentiment.

[ Because who would ever be comfortable with something like this? ]

[thedreamer]

[ For these creatures to be able to enter what should be his very impenetrable mind and pluck those memories out, well, it's unsettling to say the very least, but it's ultimately an easy question for him to answer. ]

If it meant neutralizing them and sparing anyone else from this, undoubtedly I would.

[ That is what he does, though. Or — certainly tries, as much as he can. To help. To protect. ]

You'll hear no argument to the contrary from me. We all have a world of our own terrors to face and it should be our choice whether we share any of them aloud. We don't have to speak of it, though. Forget it ever happened, if you prefer.

[ He moreso worries about the other man in terms of not being alone with it, though he's just as upset his mind would be violated this way, even though he's a complete stranger. He's not comfortable with it, either, but the Doctor also operates under the continued delusion that he's perfectly fine and always okay. Absolutely okay. Hearing the words of a friend long dead, stolen from his memories, that hasn't rattled him at all.

If he had to choose, though, he'd prefer a stranger he might never see again hearing these memories aloud over a friend. ]

[heavymetals]

[ Erik has met a handful of people with the extraordinary ability to enter anyone's mind, no matter how impenetrable. So at least that much isn't news to him. ]

I see.

[ A selfless, helpful sentiment. Erik isn't so much that sort. He would sooner avoid the place rather than stay for whatever reason.

Then again, he has had his moments... it takes the proper kind of incentive, with him. ]

I do prefer, if you don't mind. [ He slows his step, looking the Doctor up and down attentively. ] And the same of your memories, of course.

[ Because he may act like he's fine, but he's not. Erik can tell, and besides, who would be? ]

[thedreamer]

[ The Doctor himself has the ability to enter anyone's mind, though he generally needs to be connected with them through touch in some way; fingers on their temples, a headbutt, whatever it takes. Though, he rarely uses that ability. ]

Consider it forgotten, then. On the one caveat: if you ever need to speak of it, call on me. I know, I know, a perfect stranger, the very last sort of person that most would ever call on. I've found for myself sometimes...there are secrets I'd prefer to protect my friends from. Thank you for the same, though.

[ More than anything, he prefers to protect his friends from the weight of the emotional toil some of the memories carry. But then, the Doctor struggles letting people too close, he always has. He gets attached easily, but on his terms. ]

Have you ever done anything quite like this before? This particular...mission? Not this exact thing, obviously, but what we've been called on to help with — the helping in general?

[heavymetals]

And there are things I would rather keep from anyone, friend and stranger both. But— [ Because the offer is kind, and genuine, Erik tips h Nis head at the Doctor. ] I will keep that in mind, should that ever change.

[ He has already shared more than he thought he would, since he got here. With Wanda most of all, but thankfully not out of necessity, or because he was forced to. He felt a kinship with her that he can't really explain. ]

Well, never have I went on a mission to save dragons, no. [ He knows the Doctor didn't mean anything this specific. He thinks he's funny sometimes. ] But I have, on rare occasions— helped. Together with other mutants. That's what I am, for the record.

[thedreamer]

[ The Doctor gives a little nod of acknowledgment for the acceptance of his offer, and he won't push or pry beyond that. He's certainly not the best at honoring boundaries at times, even by his own admission, but he does have a sense about these things at least half the time. ]

We have something in common then. Well, two things, I suppose. No dragon-saving missions before this, we're both here at the same time, and if you tell me your favorite color is also blue, I'll say we need to buy a lottery ticket. [ For a moment, a brief flash of a smile. Because he does think Erik is funny, and because in light of what's happened, the Doctor will latch onto a bit of lightness where he can and try to be funny in return. ]

I'm not a mutant myself, but I'm not human, though I look it. Time Lord, actually. Your mutation, how does it affect you, exactly? If you don't mind me asking. And if you do mind, please feel free to draw on a range of reactions from stern glare to yelling and all points in between.

[heavymetals]

[ Well, the Doctor could always push and try to pry, but chances are Erik would just shut in on himself. And there's less of a chance he'd react violently these days, but the possibility is there. Basically, it's just easy for everyone involved that he respects those boundaries in this instance. More of a chance that he will choose to open up of his own volition, later on. ]

Best you don't waste your money on that lottery ticket, then. [ What grown ass man has a favorite color anyway, please. ]

Mutants are humans. [ To clarify. ] We are the new step in human evolution. A mutation in our genetic code grants us unique abilities. In my case, I'm capable of generating and controlling magnetic fields, and manipulating metal to my will.

[thedreamer]

[ But blue is so aesthetically pleasing! And perfectly acceptable. But then, by any definition of the word, the Doctor can't necessarily or responsibly be called grown or mature. ]

I've seen mutations in other species across the universe, co-existing where one suddenly has an ability the other doesn't, branching off in a different direction forward. Evolution — brilliant. And there are others, you said, but all with different abilities?

Ah — to generate and manipulate metal like that, it must drain you? Does it hurt? Sorry! Loads of questions, that's me.

[ He's seen so much in the universe and naturally, all species evolve in vastly different ways, but he's not yet come across human or humanoid species evolved in quite this way before, so he's fascinated. And wondering what it must feel like; as natural as breathing, or absolutely draining to use that power? ]

[heavymetals]

[ Well, he wasn't going to say anything, but if the shoe fits...

Anyway, Erik listens to the Doctor and draws a few conclusions from what he says. He travels the universe, not just the galaxy. Impressive, and intriguing. A question to save for another time. ]

And in every instance, they coexisted with their less evolved kin? [ Because that is not Erik's experience, so far. Peaceful cohabitation seems to be brittle at best, and brief whenever achieved. ]

That's alright. [ The questions, he means. Talking, as it turns out, does distract from the birds. So the Doctor wasn't wrong there. ] No, it doesn't tire me in the slightest. My abilities are in my nature. It can take some concentration at times, but it's not tiring. And yes, there are mutants with abilities than you can't even imagine.

[thedreamer]

Coexisted, yes. Peacefully, however — that's another matter. Unfortunate that it's all too rare. In the natural world, there is evidence of mutualism, a harmonious existence alongside each other. One species mutates and the other doesn't change and yet they can share their world in peace, miraculously. What I've seen more often than not is mutation and evolution that lends itself to competition, parasitism, a fight for dominance, fear breeding violence.

[ The most parasitic and violent of all mutations he's ever witnessed, of course, was the toxic scourge the Daleks had brought forth to the universe. Engineered from humanoid Kaleds, experiments turning them from a thinking and feeling species to evil creatures stuck in metal casing bent on domination and destruction through the known universe. But that's a story for another day. ]

Your abilities then — bit like breathing, from the sound of it, the way you aren't harmed to use them. Glad for that! It needs to be said. [ A brief smile. ] And the first time you realized what you could do, from then to now, how did you learn to wield your power, or was it innate?

[heavymetals]

[ Erik pauses, looks at the Doctor, then nods. Ah. ] That sounds much more familiar to my own reality.

[ Not that Erik has always had the best reaction to the hostility he and other mutants have been the targets of, he will be the first to admit. For a long time, and even now at times, all he's ever known is anger and revenge. He is not going to return violence and oppression with an outstretched hand, or a peace offering. He's always going to fight back. ]

Our abilities are often linked to our emotions. At times, they can be difficult to control. So, in part it was innate, but with time, and the proper concentration, it was possible to further master my control over those abilities.

[thedreamer]

I'm still hoping for the day it's no one's reality.

[ The Doctor can understand the urge to fight, the call to it when violence and oppression have dominion. Understanding something and accepting or advocating for it are different, though. He'll always abhor violence and attempt to be the arbiter of peace, the one who stands between those at war if he must. To protect and fight for justice and harmony, however he can. ]

And it hasn't been impacted at all since you've been here? I know the magic here is...unique. In fact, I'd never before seen magic like what exists here.

[heavymetals]

[ Hope feels like such a bitter word to hear. Charles sounded just like this man. Even now, after all they've seen, he still hopes. Tireless and stubborn. Erik is too tired, too skeptical to be so naive.

Sometimes, he wishes he was. ]

Not aside from the first days. But I haven't tested them to their full capability yet, so I wouldn't know. Perhaps there are things I no longer can do.

[ But no one wants Erik causing destruction on a massive scale. Erik doesn't want to, either. ]

Do you have any unique abilities?

[thedreamer]

I wonder that, too, how much this world's affected those of us with innate abilities. Everyone to varying degrees, it seems, and for those who had no unique abilities before arriving here, it seems to have created some or enhanced what existed. From what I've been able to discern so far.

[ As much as he can learn about this place, he tries to. Though, he knows he's not unique there, either. ]

I can travel through time with my spaceship, though that's more of an action or a skill than an ability like what you have. I can talk to animals, though I haven't had a chance to test it here yet. The dragons could understand me, but they seem to be able to understand everyone here.

[ He doesn't think to mention his ability to regenerate because he can't anymore, this being his last life. Nor does he mention his telepathy because he can't simply read anyone's mind like this, not without touching them in some way. ]

Time will tell if this place decides to give me anything else, I suppose. Or what I might learn.

[heavymetals]

I was told the same.

[ He's not sure how he would feel about that. He's had his own abilities enhanced, and all it did was bring him closer to causing mass destruction. He has them under control now, but there could always be something to trigger that.

Erik nearly stumbles over himself when he stops to turn to the Doctor at that, eyes wide. ]

You can talk to animals?

[ There's surprise in his voice, and distant, barely concealed pain and grief. It's a power like any other, really, but it's too close, too personal for him. ]

What about— [ He swallows down the knot in his throat, and forces himself to go back to a neutral tone. ] These birds? Can't you communicate with them?

[thedreamer]

Among a few other things.

[ And there are other things, but the Doctor has always been a bit distractible in that way. Not because he feels a need to hide his other abilities — extrasensory hearing, being able to see a long distance away, able to move far more quickly than most — he just doesn't think of them at times until he needs to put them to use. His mind is always turning in different directions too, and some things simply don't occur to him. ]

But I did try talking to these birds earlier, when I'd been through this way before. There's something blocking us, it seems. Another trick of this place, absolutely maddening.

[ As distractible as he can be sometimes, he doesn't entirely miss the reaction that Erik has had. ]

Talking to animals — you've known others with that ability?

[ Perhaps it's the worst question he could ask right now and he'll leave it alone if that's the case. ]

[heavymetals]

[ Erik would suggest that these birds aren't animals at all; with the way they vanish into thin air, it would be entirely possible. But right now, he's lost much of the interest for conversation, wanting nothing more than to be anywhere but here. And to be completely by himself.

He turns away again and resumes walking, pushing the swell of emotions down by force. ]

Only the one.

[ As if on cue, one of the birds materializes on a dead tree nearby. It echoes the voice of that little girl again, the words in Polish but easily translated by whatever magic is in this place.

This time, Erik makes it a point to ignore it entirely. It hurts enough as it is, he won't give it what it clearly wants. ]

[thedreamer]

[ Like an itch on the surface of the skin begging to be addressed, it takes all of the Doctor's restraint not to inquire further. It wouldn't ever be because he wants to trouble Erik further or impose his will or be nosy to be rude, far from it. It's only that the Doctor believes he can help, fix, make things perhaps marginally better, if even for a moment. But there are some hurts that can't be mended, some pain that runs too deep. No amount of words, certainly not with a stranger, will fix any of it.

He's learning that, too, slowly. It's in Erik's short reply and the way he walks off that tells the Doctor he'd be wise not to press. And one day, perhaps in the future, he'll have earned the chance to help in a different way.

The words in Polish are understood (only because the Doctor knows nearly every language, too), but it only reinforces he ought to follow his companion's lead and follow him more quickly up ahead. ]

We're not far from the crystals, I see them up ahead.

[heavymetals]

[ That's a good decision on the Doctor's end. Erik has a propensity to react poorly when pushed for personal information, and all the more so when he's already been tested by the circumstances he's in. That's very much the case here, with these birds digging into his mind, dragging from him memories he's unwilling to relive, and share even less.

He looks ahead, but can't see anything just yet. ]

You've got good eyesight.

[ All he can see is darkness, the air thick with toxins, almost like a fog. ]

[thedreamer]

Oh! I didn't mention that, did I? Thought I did —

[ If he sounds, at times, a bit here but not here, it's because he definitely is. It doesn't help he's turning over the words in Polish and everything else plucked from Erik's mind and shared aloud by the birds without his consent. The only mercy the Doctor can really grant in all of this is to keep quiet about what he's witnessed here thus far, and try to lead the other man as quickly away as possible. ]

I'd wager — [ The Doctor makes a show of holding his hands up together like he's looking through binoculars and he squints. ]

Approximately zero point eight kilometers ahead. At the rate we're walking, it should take us... oh, being generous — nine point six minutes. Give or take a few seconds.

[ He continues walking ahead, leading him through the fog now, but looking over his shoulder. ]

I'm sorry I couldn't figure a way to quiet them.

[heavymetals]

[ The man does seem a little odd. Could just be the kind of person he is, or a characteristic of his kind. Admittedly, it's not the sort of person he tends to keep around, but then he's much more taciturn himself, and he doesn't always know how to deal with extroverts.

He shoots the Doctor a stare like he's incredibly skeptical that he can actually gauge the distance like that. He would say as much too, but then he brings up the birds again, and Erik quickly loses any desire he had to speak. ]

It's not your fault. Nothing to apologize for.

[ Could be that there is no one at fault, here. That these birds simply exist, and Erik's past has just too much tragedy for them to resist. ]