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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
[ 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.
no subject
[ 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!
no subject
[ 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.
no subject
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.
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[ 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.
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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?
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[ 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.
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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.
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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. ]
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[ 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.
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[ 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.
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[ 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.
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[ 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.
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[ 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.
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[ 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?
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[ 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?
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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.
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Once the metal is cooled and hardened she tugs her goggles off before presenting it to him, worrying her bottom lip. ]
We'll have to find some leather to wrap around the hilt and you'll have to attach the strings yourself because I have no idea how to do that but hopefully this at least gets you started.
[ There's a nervous silence that follows that. ]
Is it okay?
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His eyes are wide and he holds his palms out to take the blade with something akin to reverence like he’s being presented with a of holy artifact. He’s held a sword before, sure, but not something that was made specifically for him and forged right before his eyes. ]
Is it okay?
[ He echoes as he holds the blade up before his face, eyes still wide as saucers. ]
It’s metal as hell.
[ Which, as previously established, is a very good thing. A huge grin breaks across his face and he moves to hug her—but not before gently putting the sword aside. He’s not an animal! ]
Thank you.
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There's a moment when he pulls her that she freezes, caught off guard by the unexpected sign of affection. She doesn't know why she thinks that he wouldn't thank her for her help, but she certainly doesn't expect him to hug her either. Maybe it's because she had been so convinced that her first crack at this would end up as a complete failure, or at the very least, not how he had envisioned it which would require another attempt at it at a future date. She had failed to make a sword to someone's description before so she had expected a similar outcome.
But Eddie liked it. He had looked at it like it was the most "metal as hell" thing he had looked at. And while she isn't satisfied with her medicore attempt, Eddie's reaction fills her chest with a warmth all the same. After a moment she returns his hug, fiercely squeezing him close. ]
Oh, please I didn't do that much. I'm sure someone could make a better version of it. In fact we probably could if we kept trying. [ There's a genuine smile in her voice. ] But I'm glad you like it, Eddie.
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[ He pulls away from the hug to admire the weapon, not even realizing how flabbergasted he’s just left her with his gratitude. He holds it up in front of his face, turns it to catch the light—he’s clearly all about this sword now. He’s making it his entire personality for the next three months. ]
If it’s back to square one, you’ll be the first to know.
[ He grins and dips into a low bow with his sword. He’s obsessed. Absolutely obsessed. ]
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Oo, don't you dare, Eddie! [ A furrow immediately crosses her features. ] We worked so hard to make that!
[ If something did happen to the sword however, she'd be the first to offer to help make another one for him again. In fact, she's already trying to puzzle out how to make it better than this one. Lighter, easier to use. Something that could function as both a sword and a guitar.
The pout she gives him is short lived as she watches him sweep into a corny bow. Soon enough she's laughing, pulling him upright. ]
Are you hungry? Let's go get some food. Your new sword can come too.