Transcript | [UNTITLED] SMP

[The Wizard arrives at Doc’s Manor. He has Null, Ollie’s Linter, tucked carefully in a handmade leather carrying case that sits at his hip. The Wizard steps into Doc’s home, surprising him slightly.]

[18:07:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc, hello!

[18:08:07] <✦[rp]Doc> Oh- hello there!

[18:08:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I hope you got my letter, I know I sent it short notice

[18:08:44] <✦[rp]Doc> I think my mail is getting intercepted

[18:08:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh dear!

[18:09:08] <✦[rp]Doc> The whole situation isn't what you would call ideal

[18:09:21] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, no seems not

[18:09:30] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Does it have to do with the whole...Malfaction situation?

[18:09:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Joco filled me in

[18:09:37] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, that is the situation

[18:09:46] <✦[rp]Doc> I'm not really sure what to do about all of it

[18:09:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Seems a lot has happened since we last spoke!

[18:09:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> So you really are going to marry that Ceph fellow?

[Doc folds his arms, huffing out a breath]

[18:10:11] <✦[rp]Doc> Well I don't want to. I made that much clear

[18:10:34] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah...I see

[The Wizard nods, he’s too excited to dwell on past news, and clutches Null tight.]

[18:10:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, on a more positive note! I've translated I think 75% of your Code

[18:11:07] <✦[rp]Doc> Oh, how is it going?

[18:11:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That's what I'm here about, I think I figured something pretty big out!

[18:11:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I figured out your Entity Name

[18:11:36] <✦[rp]Doc> My- what?

[18:11:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh shoot!

[18:11:47] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yeah, figures, you wouldn't know

[18:12:05] <✦[rp] The Wizard> An entity name is something given to a player that sort of represents who they are in an abstract way

[18:12:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Most people will never know their entity name for as long as they exist how the code made them this time around

[18:12:37] <✦[rp]Doc> What gives the name? The code?

[18:12:45] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Exactly, the Code

[18:12:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It's sort of like a marker of sentience, almost?

[18:13:01] <✦[rp]Doc> Interesting.

[18:13:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It awakens most things when they're given one

[Null hums in his arms, he holds it out.]

[18:13:05] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Anywho!

[18:13:15] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Your entity name: It took me a damn long time to find it, but I did

[18:13:28] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It was wrapped up all around you, which is very rare, normally they're all in one place

[18:13:38] <✦[rp]Doc> Hm? What does that mean?

[18:14:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, take Finch's entity name for example, I found theirs in one place

[18:14:09] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Between the code of their wings

[18:14:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Which makes sense, for what their entity name is, actually

[18:14:36] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I knew someone else whose code was around their wrist

[18:14:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> The actual name was wrapped around the code of their wrist

[18:14:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It's fascinating!!

[18:14:59] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Anyway, getting ahead of myself

[He pauses for emphasis]

[18:15:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Your entity name is: Player_Gateway

[18:15:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Sort of fitting, ain't it?

[18:15:36] <✦[rp]Doc> It seems so, since that is how I got here.

[18:15:42] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Exactly!

[18:15:43] <✦[rp]Doc> Does the location itself have any meaning?

[18:15:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes, actually!

[18:15:59] <✦[rp]Doc> What did you find there?

[18:16:35] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Here's my hypothesis, when you came through the portal, parts of your world came with you, meaning what you are now is a fusion between your original body and mind, and parts of that original portal

[18:16:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hence, you are literally part of the Gateway

[18:17:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Here's my thinking on that: there’s some janky wording in there that I cannot wrap my head around, and what appears to be block states? Which will mean nothing to you but mean nothing good about the state of your code in general

[18:17:48] <✦[rp]Doc> Block states?

[18:18:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Block states indeed

[18:18:08] <✦[rp]Doc> Could you quickly explain that?

[18:18:35] <✦[rp] The Wizard> There's parts of your portal that got turned into blocks, and are currently inside your body

[18:18:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Or so I think

[18:18:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> AND, if what I believe is true, I may be able to use Null to pull these out

[18:19:13] <✦[rp]Doc> Parts of the- what? Blocks? Like these blocks?

[He taps his foot on the wooden planks on the floor.]

[18:19:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes, exactly!

[Doc looks alarmed]

[18:19:27] <✦[rp]Doc> How would they me inside of me without me noticing?

[The Wizard waves his hand as if this is obvious.]

[18:19:36] <✦[rp] The Wizard> They're not activated

[18:19:42] <✦[rp]Doc> Activated?

[18:19:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We all have parts in our Code that are in active and inactive states

[18:20:12] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We have the ability to do some things are certain times, but not at others, so those things become inactive

[18:20:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Those blocks got coded in, but remain inactive

[18:20:49] <✦[rp]Doc> What happens if they get activated without you removing them?

[18:21:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well...better not to have that happen

[18:21:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But I suppose...

[18:21:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You were a medic

[18:21:32] <✦[rp]Doc> I've seen someone explode before. It's nothing new to me

[18:21:39] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, right

[18:21:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Bad, bad things would happen to your body

[18:21:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You might...grow? These blocks out of your body

[18:22:15] <✦[rp]Doc> Do- can people throw up here?

[18:22:25] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I don't think I'm familiar with the concept

[18:22:37] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh wait! Nope, yes, vomit

[18:22:34] <✦[rp]Doc> What about the idea of blood?

[18:22:48] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Blood is difficult, some have it, some don't

[18:22:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It depends

[18:23:15] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Why do you ask?

[18:23:39] <✦[rp]Doc> Those are the two ways to remove something, normally

[18:23:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, yes, I see

[18:23:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I do have a solution, I think!

[18:24:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Unfortunately, it does need us to build another machine

[18:24:15] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And the machine requires...some specific items to work

[18:24:20] <✦[rp]Doc> You said you might be able to get them out- another machine.

[18:24:25] <✦[rp]Doc> What items?

[18:24:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah lemme check Null here

[18:24:46] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I've been keeping my notes in it, very handy!

[18:25:05] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, here, "the horn shard of a warden, a focusing glass, a nether star for power, and lightning rods to channel said power."

[18:25:25] <✦[rp]Doc> I have three of those, maybe

[18:25:37] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Which would you be missing?

[The Wizard notices something move out of the corner of his eye. He looks up to see Prince crawling out of Doc’s wall. Prince drops onto the ground, looking up to grin at the Wizard.]

[18:25:42] <✦[rp] The Wizard> PRINCE?!

[18:25:46] <✦[rp]Doc> The sta-

[18:25:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> hey

[Doc turns around]

[18:25:55] <✦[rp]Doc> WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY HOUSE

[Prince makes a peace sign with his left hand.]

[18:25:56] <✦ [rp] Prince> whats up

[18:25:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Where in the world did you come from?!

[18:26:15] <✦ [rp] Prince> from up yer ass wizman

[18:26:30] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That is well past rude!

[Prince starts wandering down the hall, continuing to talk as he walks.]

[18:26:07] <✦ [rp] Prince> i did say that we should talk, doc

[Doc follows, and the Wizard, concerned, stays a few paces behind.]

[Doc, exhausted already: ]

[18:26:12] <✦[rp]Doc> I specifically requested you not break into my house.

[Prince turns suddenly, pointing a finger into Doc’s face]

[18:26:20] <✦ [rp] Prince> i did not BREAK IN

[He leans back, hand on his hip, cocky.]

[18:26:27] <✦ [rp] Prince> i made a secret entrance when you were away

[He sniffs, unamused, and looks around.]

[18:26:40] <✦ [rp] Prince> cool house you got here

[18:26:47] <✦[rp]Doc> Why would you make a secret entrance into my house?

[Prince notices a cake on Doc’s dining room table.]

[18:26:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> ah hell yeah cake

[Prince scampers over to it, grabbing off a piece as the Wizard comes up beside Doc.]

[18:26:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc, do you know why he's here?

[18:27:50] <✦[rp]Doc> He said he wanted to talk to me, but I did specifically request no breaking into my house

[18:26:53] <✦[rp]Doc> And you did break it to make the entrance!

[Prince waves his hand back and forth, his back to them as he dines on cake.]

[18:27:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> ehh potato tomato

[He turns, satisfied.]

[18:27:42] <✦ [rp] Prince> its was a good entrance wasn't it?

[18:27:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It was surprising for certain

[18:28:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> and i did say that i have a secret entrance

[18:28:16] <✦[rp]Doc> That you made, by breaking one of my walls

[18:28:21] <✦[rp] The Wizard> He has a habit of breaking and entering, apparently

[Prince grins dreamily. He pushes past Doc and the Wizard and heads for Doc’s office.]

[18:28:27] <✦ [rp] Prince> i love crime

[Prince crouches down, pointing out Doc’s collection of sculk shriekers.]

[18:28:39] <✦ [rp] Prince> also dope. screamers.

[18:28:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Do you have a reason to be here Prince?

[18:28:48] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I mean, besides just to be a nuisance

[Prince stretches out, scratching his claws into Doc’s carpet.]

[18:28:55] <✦[rp]Doc> Don't mess up my carpet

[Prince retracts his claws.]

[18:28:57] <✦ [rp] Prince> i did say to talk!!

[18:29:12] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well you could have done the polite thing and left a note

[18:29:18] <✦ [rp] Prince> pfft

[He snorts, standing. Prince jostles his robes and a paper flies free.]

[18:29:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> manners are for losers

[18:29:37] <✦[rp]Doc> Two weeks ago they all broke into my house, so this is actually an improvement, as awful as that is

[The paper lands at the Wizard’s feet. He picks it up, souring as he realizes it’s another note about the Echo.]

[18:29:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> More of these Prince, really?

[18:29:29] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That's not what I meant by note

[18:29:40] <✦ [rp] Prince> what note

[18:29:45] <✦[rp] The Wizard> This one!

[The Wizard gestures at it. Prince doesn’t even deign to look at the note.]

[18:29:49] <✦ [rp] Prince> i didnt write that

[18:30:10] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, someone did, and it was not myself and I doubt it was Doc

[He folds up the note, and pockets it.]

[Prince baby-talks, innocently.]

[18:30:25] <✦ [rp] Prince> and it twasnt me ur magic-ness

[Doc blinks, lolling his head back, visibly exhausted.]

[The Wizard huffs.]

[18:30:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> If you don't mind, Doc and I were discussing something pretty damn important

[18:30:41] <✦ [rp] Prince> how about you talk about dragons instead

[18:30:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Dragons?

[18:30:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> What about them?

[18:31:01] <✦ [rp] Prince> dragon deez nuts across your face!

[18:31:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> woo!

[The Wizard sits down on the ground. Prince jumps in the air, going for a high five from Doc. Doc denies it, sighing deeply, rubbing his face.]

[18:31:13] <✦ [rp] Prince> hell yeah sculk

[Prince sets down a sculk shrieker and smacks the top of it. It sets it off. Doc looks like he would rather be buried six feet underground than be here right now.]

[18:31:25] <✦[rp]Doc> This is what happened when they came to the town hall

[18:31:34] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Same thing happened to us

[18:31:29] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You really can't get these Malfaction varmints to leave, can you?

[18:31:46] <✦[rp]Doc> And when Ollie and Faulker tried to fight them off, we all lost

[18:32:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, well, the one Prince was no match for us

[18:32:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Unfortunately he is annoyingly persistent

[18:32:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And a surprisingly interesting source of information

[18:32:28] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It might be worth it just to hear him out until he gets bored and leaves

[The two turn to where Prince had just been standing to find him gone.]

[18:32:34] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, now where did he go

[Doc smacks a hand over his face. His voice is muffled through it.]

[18:32:42] <✦[rp]Doc> Probably to look through my stuff.

[Through a downturned grimace: ]

[18:32:48] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Right, of course

[Prince has wandered upstairs to Doc’s music room and sitting area. He plunks down random notes on the keys.]

[18:33:00] <✦[rp]Doc> Prince-

[18:33:04] <✦ [rp] Prince> piano!

[As if speaking to a child: ]

[18:33:12] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, it's a piano

[Prince slams his fingers down on the keys, playing the most horrible discordant chord he can.]

[The Wizard, covering his ears: ]

[18:33:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Unpleasant…

[Prince launches into a blazing rendition of Darude Sandstorm.]

[18:31:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> also. doc my man. you said you got sculk questions or something. something about electricity or somethin

[18:33:46] <✦[rp]Doc> I don't really have sculk questions

[He stops]

[18:33:53] <✦ [rp] Prince> yeah? you dont?

[18:34:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And I believe I heard everything I needed to at the Corroded meeting you crashed

[18:33:57] <✦ [rp] Prince> werent you using em for something

[18:34:05] <✦ [rp] Prince> to get your ass home or whatever

[18:34:07] <✦[rp]Doc> It's a more advanced form of a mycelial slime mold

[18:34:12] <✦[rp]Doc> Like a living wire

[18:34:15] <✦ [rp] Prince> pfft

[18:34:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, is it actually?

[18:34:23] <✦ [rp] Prince> its not

[18:34:29] <✦ [rp] Prince> dont believe the doctor

[With emphasis: ]

[18:34:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I think I'm more inclined to believe The Doctor

[18:34:45] <✦[rp]Doc> It conducts electricity, and spreads on its own. It pulsates like a slime mold does

[18:34:43] <✦ [rp] Prince> its more awesome

[He jumps up, slamming his paws on the keys a few times before slipping past Doc and the Wizard to head back downstairs.]

[18:35:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, that makes what Prince said about being mostly wires make sense…

[Prince stops.]

[18:35:14] <✦ [rp] Prince> oh that was unrelated

[He knocks on his skull.]

[18:35:18] <✦ [rp] Prince> i have regular wires in my brain

[The Wizard raises his eyebrows, face neutral.]

[18:35:27] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Do you also have sculk in there as well?

[Prince shrugs.]

[18:35:37] <✦ [rp] Prince> uhhhhh, i mean maybe

[He snorts.]

[18:35:44] <✦ [rp] Prince> i dont do surgery on myself, grape boy

[18:35:51] <✦ [rp] Prince> cant really check

[The Wizard enunciates each word.]

[18:35:51] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Grape, boy?

[He points at the Wizard.]

[18:35:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> ourple

[18:36:03] <✦[rp]Doc> What?

[18:36:08] <✦ [rp] Prince> u are purple

[18:36:11] <✦ [rp] Prince> hence, grape

[The Wizard blinks.]

[18:36:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, well I suppose that made more sense that I was expecting

[He looks down at himself.]

[18:36:27] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I am purple

[18:36:30] <✦ [rp] Prince> exactly

[The Wizard narrows his eyes and nods.]

[18:36:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hmm, grape indeed

[18:36:35] <✦ [rp] Prince> see. you get it grape boy

[18:36:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I don't think I like it when you call me that

[18:36:55] <✦ [rp] Prince> with your advanced age, you could even be someone's grape grandpa

[18:37:08] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well I like grape grandpa more, has a better ring to it

[18:37:08] <✦ [rp] Prince> ba-dum-ching

[Doc pushes past the grape conversation and back into sculk territory.]

[18:37:07] <✦[rp]Doc> Anyway- that's what I've been treating the sculk as, and so far I have been completely right.

[The Wizard claps.]

[18:37:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes! Right, the sculk!

[Prince points at Doc.]

[18:37:29] <✦ [rp] Prince> well. youve been fucking em up my man

[18:37:36] <✦ [rp] Prince> the things ive been hearing

[18:37:44] <✦ [rp] Prince> well, its usually too much voices normally

[18:37:54] <✦ [rp] Prince> but this guy? this doc guy? when he appeared

[18:37:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> sculk was like

[18:38:14] <✦ [rp] Prince> wait. fucked up guy alert. you did something to us. some part of us

[18:38:25] <✦ [rp] Prince> and i was like. damn fr? and so im here

[18:38:24] <✦[rp]Doc> What??

[18:38:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc, did something happen with the sculk when you arrived?

[18:38:49] <✦[rp]Doc> I don't know? I'm not sure what's going on

[18:38:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince...were you here before Doc?

[Like it’s obvious: ]

[18:38:45] <✦ [rp] Prince> i was here first

[18:39:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince, the more I learn about you the more confused I become

[Back to Doc: ]

[18:38:57] <✦ [rp] Prince> you said you were using em for something

[18:39:08] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, they naturally conduct electricity

[18:39:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> how'd you get that conclusion

[18:39:29] <✦[rp]Doc> Do you want a demonstration?

[18:39:32] <✦[rp]Doc> I can give one

[18:39:34] <✦ [rp] Prince> go ahead

[18:39:37] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I personally would love to see one

[Doc goes into his storage room, Prince and the Wizard follow. As Doc grabs materials for his demonstration, Prince begins digging through Doc’s chests.]

[18:40:09] <✦ [rp] Prince> ill pilfer some of these if you dont mind

[Flatly: ]

[18:40:17] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince stop going through Doc's stuff

[With some bite: ]

[18:40:20] <✦[rp]Doc> Don't touch my things

[Doc starts out the door, and the Wizard follows. Prince points at one of the signs on Doc’s chests as the two of them head out of the room.]

[18:40:23] <✦ [rp] Prince> also you mispelled it

[Doc waits at the door, gesturing for Prince to follow them.]

[18:40:45] <✦[rp]Doc> Okay, come along

[Prince snorts, and trots out of the room.]

[Doc leads them into the courtyard. There he sets down a sculk sensor, as well as a door. He steps back and forth between the sculk sensor. The vibrations of his movement set off the sensor, triggering the door.]

[18:41:08] <✦[rp]Doc> See?

[The Wizard nods quickly.]

[18:41:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh a redstone signal!

[18:41:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes, now I understand

[18:41:20] <✦[rp]Doc> It detects movement and puts out a pulse

[18:41:32] <✦ [rp] Prince> ohhhh

[18:41:38] <✦ [rp] Prince> you meant redstone

[18:41:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes, Doc electricity must be something different where you're from

[18:42:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Here electricity is lightning strikes

[18:42:10] <✦ [rp] Prince> i thought you were striking the Echo with lightning

[Confused: ]

[18:42:11] <✦[rp]Doc> Just- it's the same thing. It's the same thing

[18:42:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> its different

[18:42:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> markedly different

[18:42:24] <✦ [rp] Prince> one hurts, the other is normal

[18:42:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I'm inclined to agree with Prince on this one, but of course, we are from different worlds you and I, Doc

[Trying to explain: ]

[18:42:58] <✦[rp]Doc> Redstone pulses from the electricity, like a wire

[18:43:26] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Electricity through redstone, now that’s a concept!

[Prince sets up a shrieker next to the sensor. The movement of the three of them continually set it off.]

[18:43:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> now that's good music

[18:43:38] <✦[rp]Doc> I already have tinnitus, you do not need to make it worse

[18:43:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> In my understanding, redstone is radioactive, and reacts to outside forces

[18:43:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But that's semantics

[18:44:10] <✦[rp]Doc> Radioactivity is so much more dangerous that electricity-

[18:44:22] <✦[rp]Doc> It makes you rot from the inside. I have seen it

[18:44:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> oh ive been eating it sometimes

[18:44:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince you should not eat redstone, I swear on the Void

[18:44:25] <✦ [rp] Prince> i like the taste

[18:44:25] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But I think whatever's inside you is probably already rotten

[18:44:51] <✦ [rp] Prince> nuh uh

[The Wizard sighs.]

[18:45:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince, do you have anything else of note, or can Doc and myself get back to business?

[18:45:27] <✦ [rp] Prince> nah not really but ill just hang around here being awesome

[Prince trots off towards the house.]

[18:45:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I-

[18:45:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc I'm sorry for whatever he's about to do

[Doc raises his voice, not quite shouting, but still loud.]

[18:45:41] <✦[rp]Doc> Please leave my things alone

[Prince puts a sensor and shrieker above the door.]

[18:45:49] <✦ [rp] Prince> doorbell

[Doc turns back to the Wizard.]

[18:45:49] <✦[rp]Doc> I'm used to it by now

[From the pained expression on his face, the Wizard doesn’t entirely believe him.]

[18:45:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh-kay

[18:46:21] <✦[rp]Doc> Is there any way of telling what the blocks are?

[The Wizard sighs, stretches, and tries to get himself back on topic.]

[18:46:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Right, the blocks, that whole shenanigan messed me up

[Prince, from behind them.]

[18:46:43] <✦ [rp] Prince> they might be cds and vhs tapes

[They ignore him.]

[18:46:48] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Unfortunately I just know they're there

[18:47:27] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I think the only way to know for sure is to extract them

[18:47:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Which...will be a process for sure

[18:47:35] <✦ [rp] Prince> you gotta bust them out dog

[The Wizard pulls out Null, listing off the things they will need. Prince leans incredibly close over his shoulder, reading with him.]

[18:47:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, a nether star, a shard of warden's horn, a focusing glass, and lightning rods

[18:47:41] <✦[rp]Doc> Right, the things

[18:47:54] <✦[rp]Doc> I do not have a star

[18:48:05] <✦[rp]Doc> But I believe I have everything else

[18:48:05] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I've got lightning rods for sure

[18:48:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> horn??

[The Wizard gives Null a gentle pat on the top of it before putting it back in the leather carrying case. He replies matter-of-factly to Prince.]

[18:48:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Also called an Echo Shard

[18:48:17] <✦ [rp] Prince> ohhh those

[The Wizard looks at Prince with a deep side-eye.]

[18:48:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You might be familiar with all your Echo nonsense

[18:48:21] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, I have one of those definitely.

[18:48:20] <✦ [rp] Prince> yeah

[18:48:23] <✦ [rp] Prince> those arent

[18:48:26] <✦ [rp] Prince> their. horns

[18:48:46] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hmm, well, still need one of em

[18:48:48] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Whatever they are

[18:49:36] <✦[rp]Doc> I'll see if I can gather some of it up, yes

[18:48:47] <✦[rp]Doc> So yes, the star is all I don't have

[18:49:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Lemme dig around, I'll see if I can scrounge one up

[18:49:06] <✦ [rp] Prince> gross that you would need an echo shard dude

[The Wizard turns to Prince, confused.]

[18:49:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince what do you think an Echo Shard is?

[Prince looks away, embarrassed. The Wizard furrows his brow, now absolutely sure that Prince has done something unspeakable with an Echo Shard. They are…shaped like that…he guesses.]

[The Wizard ignores it: ]

[18:49:29] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc, are you wanting to do this today?

[18:48:21] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, I think so.

[The two of them split off, the Wizard picks up a star from Malfaction, and gathers the necessary lightning rods from his copper supply. Doc collects the Echo Shard, as well as a focusing glass. Prince takes a power nap in Doc’s bed. They reconvene after an hour or so with their gathered materials.]

[The Wizard touches down in front of Doc’s manor. He heads inside, speaking to the open air as he doesn’t see Doc yet.]

[18:59:51] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc, I've gathered the star, have you got the other items?

[Prince comes downstairs wearing Doc’s silk bathrobe and night cap. He stretches, scratching his chest.]

[19:00:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And of course, Prince is here still…

[Doc comes out from his office, not seeing Prince yet.]

[19:00:09] <✦[rp]Doc> Yes, I got the other items

[Prince yawns, smacking his lips.]

[19:00:10] <✦ [rp] Prince> doc's bed was soft

[Doc deflates, sighing.]

[19:03:39] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Shall we head down?

[19:03:49] <✦[rp]Doc> Right, let's try to not let Prince in.

[19:03:54] <✦ [rp] Prince> pfft

[19:04:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I think that's like trying to keep water out of a sieve

[Prince crawls into one of the open nooks in the book case, squeezing in a space that doesn’t seem possible for him to fit in.]

[19:04:07] <✦[rp]Doc> How did you get in there

[19:04:20] <✦ [rp] Prince> i do yoga

[19:04:02] <✦ [rp] Prince> i already know where it is

[19:04:18] <✦[rp]Doc> Alright, then where is it?

[Prince gets out of the bookshelf, takes two paces to the left side of Doc’s fireplace, and pulls one of the candleholders forward. Two of the trapdoors flip down, revealing a secret room behind it.]

[A baby drowned runs out from inside the room. It grabs onto Prince’s leg.]

[19:04:31] <✦ [rp] Prince> um. who's child is this

[He tries to shake it off. It hugs tighter.]

[Smirking, Doc brushes past Prince and walks into the secret room.]

[19:04:36] <✦[rp]Doc> You found it.

[The Wizard follows, grinning.]

[19:04:44] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Your child I think, Prince

[Prince looks down at it, lifting it up by under the armpits.]

[19:04:56] <✦ [rp] Prince> my new daughter

[Doc and the Wizard take the elevator down to the underground testing area.]

[19:05:09] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hopefully that was a good enough distraction

[19:05:25] <✦[rp]Doc> We can hope

[They arrive together, stepping out into the humid underground cave system. Below, a lake of lava sits half cooled over into obsidian. There is a small platform leading down made out of crimson wood and oxidized copper, and on top of the obsidian platform is a large portal frame.]

[Together, Doc and the Wizard walk down to the obsidian platform together. The Wizard has the top of Null’s carrying case open, using their top to project blueprint plans he scanned in earlier.]

[19:05:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, let me look at my blueprints

[19:05:43] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I sketched some plans up before I came

[19:05:47] <✦[rp]Doc> Right

[19:05:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> They're preliminary at best, but...hopefully

[He projects the machine into reality, beginning to cobble it together out of a deep slate facade. He steps back.]

[19:06:44] <✦[rp]Doc> Would you like the other materials?

[19:07:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hmm, give me a second, I'll see where they need to go

[19:07:06] <✦[rp]Doc> Very well

[Prince’s voice echoes through the cavern as he appears at the end of the tunnel.]

[19:07:11] <✦ [rp] Prince> hey nerds

[The Wizard deadpans from where he squats fiddling with redstone wires.]

[19:07:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh great, here he comes

[Prince comes down onto the obsidian platform to watch them.]

[19:07:32] <✦ [rp] Prince> you're very bad at hide and seek

[The Wizard holds up a hand for Doc to hand him the item.]

[19:08:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Shard?

[Doc sets it in his palm.]

[19:08:13] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Thank you

[Prince climbs up onto the top of the machine.]

[19:08:21] <✦[rp]Doc> Prince, you should get off of there

[The Wizard wipes his brow of sweat, standing.]

[19:08:43] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Can you try to not be a nuisance for five minutes?

[19:09:00] <✦ [rp] Prince> ^-^

[19:09:07] <✦ [rp] Prince> no

[The Wizard holds up a hand for Doc to hand him the item.]

[19:09:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> The focusing glass?

[Doc sets it in his palm.]

[19:09:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Thank you

[He wrinkles his nose at the alignment and then at the blueprint.]

[19:09:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, ordered it wrong

[He moves things around, suddenly more satisfied with his work.]

[19:10:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hmm, I'm close I think

[The Wizard stands up and steps back.]

[19:10:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I think it may work

[19:10:35] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It's ramshackle, and slapped together, but using Null...we can try

[19:10:48] <✦[rp]Doc> Okay, where does null go?

[19:10:59] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, lets see…

[Prince fiddles with one of the levers, and the Wizard smacks his hand away.]

[19:10:33] <✦ [rp] Prince> what's this for

[19:10:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> For all your snooping you're very bad at gathering information

[19:11:11] <✦ [rp] Prince> i never snoop btw.

[19:11:15] <✦ [rp] Prince> im just here

[19:11:26] <✦[rp]Doc> So what do we do now?

[Doc stares at the machine, an odd, intense expression on his face.]

[The Wizard wipes his hands on his pants and nods at his work.]

[19:14:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> There. I think that's good

[Prince wrinkles his nose.]

[19:14:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> looks a bit shit

[19:15:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, I'm tryin my best here Prince

[19:15:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It's the best its gonna be to not kill Doc

[19:15:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> try better

[19:15:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah shoot-

[The Wizard leans down to fix something else.]

[Doc’s expression grows more confused as time goes on. He narrows his eyes at it, as if trying to puzzle something out without quite knowing what the question was in the first place.]

[Prince tries his very best to look away from the Echo Shard.]

[Finally, the Wizard stands, takes in a deep breath, and steadies his hands. It’s ready. No more second guessing. He turns towards Doc.]

[19:22:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ready Doc?

[Doc shakes his head, zoning back in.]

[19:22:53] <✦[rp]Doc> Hm?

[19:23:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> The machine, I think it's ready to go

[19:23:12] <✦ [rp] Prince> what does it do

[19:23:26] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It will hopefully pull some blocks out of Doc that got stuck on his way over

[19:23:23] <✦[rp]Doc> Right- right. Where do I stand?

[The Wizard points at a position in between the channeling lightning rods.]

[19:23:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Right here

[Prince looks at either side of Doc, craning his neck.]

[19:23:38] <✦ [rp] Prince> where is it gonna come out

[19:23:51] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hopefully right out of him, or somewhere in the air, we'll see

[The Wizard inputs a code into Null.]

[19:24:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Initializing block 1

[19:24:04] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Null ready

[He flicks some levers.]

[19:24:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> System ready

[Straightens the focusing glass.]

[19:24:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Glass focused

[Finally, hand over the final lever, looks at Doc.]

[19:24:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ready?

[Doc nods.]

[19:24:27] <✦[rp]Doc> Sure.

[19:24:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Pulling block

[The Wizard throws the lever. Sparks fly, the machine hums, Null begins to glow. Doc’s body begins to fizzle and shift. A block appears in his hands.]

[19:24:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Block one pulled!

[The Wizard scans Null’s screen at lightspeed, reading the incoming data.]

[19:24:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Based on Null's calculations, I think there will be four of them

[Doc blinks, he looks down at the block in his hands.]

[19:24:46] <✦[rp]Doc> There's numbers

[19:24:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh?

[Prince makes grabby hands towards the block.]

[19:24:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> oooh lemme see

[19:24:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Be careful around the lava!

[19:25:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Does that block feel at all familiar Doc?

[Doc squints.]

[19:25:47] <✦[rp]Doc> I'm not sure. The lighting down here isn't that good, so I'll have to take them up to really look

[19:25:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, next block

[The Wizard inputs the codes into Null, repeating the process.]

[19:26:08] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Pulling…

[The same things happen again as the Wizard throws the lever. Another block appears in Doc’s hands.]

[19:26:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> oogh! i saw that one

[19:26:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> can i also get blocks pulled out of me

[19:26:39] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I don't think you have blocks in you, Prince

[19:26:45] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Just sculk...and wires

[19:26:56] <✦ [rp] Prince> dont forget the robotic implants

[19:27:04] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We cannot forget those

[19:27:02] <✦ [rp] Prince> how do you think i got this tall?

[The Wizard speed-reads data, looking up part way through to check in on Doc.]

[19:26:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> How are you feeling?

[19:26:43] <✦[rp]Doc> Not- great. But it's fine. it doesn't really hurt. It's more of a nausea

[19:26:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That makes sense Doc, just two more, you've got this

[The Wizard inputs the codes into Null, repeating the process.]

[19:27:13] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Null ready...

[19:27:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Pulling…

[The same things happen again as the Wizard throws the lever. Another block appears in Doc’s hands.]

[19:27:30] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright Doc, one more, are you still feeling alright?

[19:27:42] <✦ [rp] Prince> if ur gonna explode you have to legally tell us

[19:27:47] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That would be best, yes

[19:27:48] <✦[rp]Doc> I'm not going to explode.

[He grimaces, blinking hard.]

[19:28:02] <✦[rp]Doc> I might collapse after this, but for now it's fine

[19:28:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, damn, alright, we'll be ready

[19:28:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Last block

[The Wizard inputs the codes into Null, repeating the process.]

[19:28:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Null ready...

[19:28:23] <✦ [rp] Prince> can i get dibs on his ocular and audio inputs if he dies

[19:28:26] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Code found...

[19:28:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince, please-

[19:28:36] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Pulling

[The same things happen again as the Wizard throws the lever. Another block appears in Doc’s hands.]

[19:28:46] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, we pulled em

[He pulls Null out of the machine delicately, looking at a nauseous looking Doc. Prince pokes Doc’s face as he tries to keep his footing.]

[19:28:55] <✦ [rp] Prince> r u gonna die

[Doc pushes his hand away.]

[19:29:01] <✦[rp]Doc> The first one and the last one look the most familiar

[19:29:09] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, do they?

[The Wizard points Null at Doc.]

[19:28:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Initializing Null for a scan

[Doc rasps: ]

[19:29:15] <✦[rp]Doc> And the letters at the beginning spell gateway

[19:29:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Null is reporting-

[19:29:25] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You're looking good! The blocks are gone

[19:29:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> If you'd been feeling any headaches or nausea before, those might be gone now

[19:29:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Gateway is together again as well

[19:30:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Shall we head upstairs? We can look at these blocks in more detail

[19:30:15] <✦[rp]Doc> Right, yes

[19:30:17] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Unless Doc, you're not feeling too well

[19:30:29] <✦[rp]Doc> I should get upstairs regardless

[19:30:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Right

[The Wizard supports Doc the best he can as the two of them, with a curious Prince to tow, head upstairs. They arrive in Doc’s office, where Doc pushes the Wizard away, supporting himself on the edge of the table.]

[19:31:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright, here

[19:31:25] <✦[rp]Doc> Okay, I'll put them down in order

[He places the items in order of spelling out “Gateway”.]

[19:32:15] <✦ [rp] Prince> oooh! items

[19:32:18] <✦[rp]Doc> They don't really seem related

[19:32:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Fascinating...

[19:32:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> No, they don't

[19:32:29] <✦ [rp] Prince> gah tay wha tay...

[19:32:39] <✦[rp]Doc> Sure, Prince

[19:32:43] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Iron block...deepslate...nether wart block...copper

[19:32:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> They do spell out Gateway

[19:33:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But these secondary numbers...I have no clue what they might be

[19:33:18] <✦ [rp] Prince> probably code or somethin

[19:33:37] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Perhaps, can't be sure

[19:33:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ringing any bells for you, Doc?

[He taps the copper block.]

[19:34:26] <✦[rp]Doc> They're all two letters and six characters except this one

[19:35:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Huh, strange

[Prince yawns loudly.]

[19:35:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> yknow. this seems like boring old man shit

[The Wizard raises his head from the table.]

[19:35:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Finally have you gotten bored, Prince?

[Prince shrugs.]

[19:35:42] <✦ [rp] Prince> eepy maybe

[19:35:46] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Lasted longer than I expected

[19:35:47] <✦[rp]Doc> I truly don't know what you expected

[19:36:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well...Doc I have some idea of what this could mean

[19:36:27] <✦[rp]Doc> Lets hear it

[19:36:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> If could be some form of coordinates, but I have no clue how to parse them into directions

[19:37:16] <✦[rp]Doc> That first one would check out

[19:37:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> If only there was an Abyssal Archive here...maybe we'd be able to get more information...but alas, no such in this place

[He continues to tap the copper block.]

[19:38:09] <✦[rp]Doc> 74 seems reasonable for a y coordinate

[19:38:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh?

[Prince reaches forward suddenly, snatching the iron block off the table, and racing out of the room with it.]

[19:38:25] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince put that back!

[19:38:26] <✦[rp]Doc> Prince!

[19:38:36] <✦ [rp] Prince> nuh uh

[Doc and the Wizard follow as quickly as possible.]

[19:38:42] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince that is important!

[19:38:53] <✦[rp]Doc> We need that!

[Doc heads out the back door, the Wizard trailing behind.]

[19:38:54] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Where-

[19:39:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Where did he go?

[19:39:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah there!

[They chase Prince through the courtyard.]

[19:39:55] <✦[rp]Doc> Wait- i think he dropped it

[19:40:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Where?

[19:40:13] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Did you get it?

[19:40:20] <✦[rp]Doc> No

[The Wizard shouts into the air.]

[19:40:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince where the hell did you put that you mangy fleabag?

[Prince]s voice comes from behind him.]

[19:40:38] <✦ [rp] Prince> rude!

[The Wizard whips around.]

[19:40:47] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Do you have any idea how important that is?!

[19:40:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> yeah

[19:40:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Then return it!

[19:41:01] <✦[rp]Doc> Give it back!

[19:41:12] <✦[rp]Doc> I want to go home!

[Prince stands his ground, holding the iron block in his hands.]

[19:41:06] <✦ [rp] Prince> be nice to me

[The Wizard stops. He pauses.]

[19:41:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Fine

[19:41:21] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince would you please return the block to us

[19:41:29] <✦ [rp] Prince> hmmmmm

[19:41:44] <✦ [rp] Prince> hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

[19:41:54] <✦[rp] The Wizard> For old....grape.....boy..........grandpa?

[19:42:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Because you're so nice and generous

[19:42:07] <✦ [rp] Prince> keep going

[19:42:10] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And so smart and clever at getting into place?

[19:42:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> ....Doc you as well....

[19:42:22] <✦ [rp] Prince> hhhhhhmmmmmmmmm

[19:42:29] <✦ [rp] Prince> okay ^_^

[19:42:35] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh thank Void

[Prince hands it to Doc, who grabs it like a lifeline.]

[19:42:37] <✦[rp]Doc> Thank you

[19:43:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> see? im nice

[19:43:29] <✦[rp]Doc> That running around didn't help me

[19:43:32] <✦ [rp] Prince> if ur nice to me

[19:43:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince....you are a handful for sure

[They return to the office.]

[19:43:56] <✦ [rp] Prince> ^_^ i learn from the best

[The Wizard sighs deeply, tired from running.]

[19:44:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well, today has been eventful

[19:44:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> How are you feeling Doc?

[19:44:29] <✦[rp]Doc> I can't remember what I was saying about the numbers anymore. And, not great

[19:44:42] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, Void, I'm sorry

[19:44:53] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I'll write these down, see if I can figure anything out

[19:45:07] <✦[rp]Doc> I'll try to figure it out on my end as well

[19:45:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> "GA-X51130"

[19:45:15] <✦[rp] The Wizard> "TE-33GGF4"

[19:45:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> "WA-5055RW"

[19:45:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> "Y-C8S74"

[19:45:39] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Sounds grand

[While the Wizard finishes writing down the last one, he sees Prince poorly try to sleight of hand the deepslate block from the table and replace it with cobbled deepslate.]

[19:45:47] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince....

[19:45:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Please put that back

[Prince’s eyes flicker from side to side.]

[19:45:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> its still there

[19:46:05] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I know it's a fake, the real one is normal deepslate

[19:46:09] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That's cobble

[19:46:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> >:(

[19:46:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> i just want a souvenir

[19:46:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> no fun

[19:46:32] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well the fake can be your souvenir

[Doc holds out a lightning rod.]

[19:46:36] <✦[rp]Doc> Do you want a lightning rod?

[19:46:41] <✦ [rp] Prince> oh!

[19:46:42] <✦[rp]Doc> From the basement?

[19:46:43] <✦ [rp] Prince> yea

[19:46:47] <✦ [rp] Prince> i need that for later

[19:46:51] <✦[rp]Doc> There you go

[He hands it to Prince, who holds it up, as if to check for authenticity.]

[The Wizard turns to Doc.]

[19:47:08] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc do you mind if I pop by in the coming weeks and fiddle with your portal a bit?

[19:47:16] <✦[rp]Doc> Be my guest

[19:47:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I know you'll be busy with the wedding whatnot soon, and I need something new to work on

[19:47:46] <✦[rp]Doc> I can tell you how I made it

[Prince gnaws on the lightning rod to test for authenticity further.]

[19:47:25] <✦ [rp] Prince> can i also pop in to sleep in your bed

[Doc, caught off guard: ]

[19:47:39] <✦[rp]Doc> N-no, you can't do that.

[Prince whines: ]

[19:47:45] <✦ [rp] Prince> im lonely

[19:47:55] <✦[rp]Doc> Prince I'm being forced into a marriage

[19:48:02] <✦ [rp] Prince> marriage practice

[19:48:55] <✦[rp]Doc> No- What?

[19:48:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh dear....

[19:49:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Well I should be on my way out soon. Prince, I know you love to annoy Doc here but I've actually got some things I'd like to chat to you about

[19:49:16] <✦ [rp] Prince> me??

[19:49:26] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Doc isn't the only person I've scanned

[19:49:31] <✦ [rp] Prince> ohhh right

[19:49:43] <✦ [rp] Prince> i remember when you trapped me

[19:49:50] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Yes indeed

[19:49:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I read through your code a bit ago

[19:49:56] <✦[rp]Doc> Hm? What happened there?

[Prince flops on the table, dramatically.]

[19:49:56] <✦ [rp] Prince> it was terrible doccy

[19:50:01] <✦ [rp] Prince> i was caged

[The Wizard deadpan: ]

[19:50:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> He hid in a hole

[Prince, dramatic: ]

[19:50:05] <✦ [rp] Prince> it was so fucked up

[19:50:10] <✦[rp]Doc> Okay then

[19:50:15] <✦ [rp] Prince> then the wiz and his crew held me down

[The Wizard deadpan: ]

[19:50:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> He could've escaped incredibly easily

[Prince, dramatic: ]

[19:50:24] <✦ [rp] Prince> and he used a weird machine

[19:50:26] <✦ [rp] Prince> on me

[The Wizard, slightly quizzically: ]

[19:50:26] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I think he liked being scanned

[Prince, dramatic: ]

[19:50:32] <✦ [rp] Prince> it was really scary doc

[19:50:35] <✦ [rp] Prince> dont trust the wizman

[19:50:53] <✦ [rp] Prince> i still remember the feeling of being held down. it was awful

[19:51:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> it was both oddly hot and cold

[The Wizard, slightly quizzically: ]

[19:51:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Don't you like being trapped?

[19:51:12] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Isn't that part of the whole echo thing anyway?

[Prince, normally: ]

[19:51:33] <✦ [rp] Prince> different kind of trapped

[19:51:16] <✦[rp]Doc> I-

[19:51:20] <✦[rp]Doc> …

[The Wizard, apologetically: ]

[19:51:23] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Sorry Doc

[19:51:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Anyway

[19:51:29] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince, I'm sure you've got wedding terrorizing to do in Wisteria

[19:51:42] <✦ [rp] Prince> oh! wedding plans

[19:51:46] <✦ [rp] Prince> yes

[19:51:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We can walk there in the nether together

[19:51:55] <✦ [rp] Prince> ooh!! yippe

[19:52:04] <✦[rp]Doc> Oh dear, not the wedding again

[19:52:04] <✦[rp] The Wizard> See you later, Doc

[19:52:08] <✦[rp]Doc> Be safe

[19:52:17] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Next time I see you may be the wedding, Voidspeed, friend

[19:52:18] <✦ [rp] Prince> youll be my dad the next time i see you

[19:52:26] <✦[rp]Doc> The what- what??

[Doc sputters in intense confusion.]

[The Wizard waves from the portal.]

[19:52:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Goodbye Doc!

[19:53:03] <✦[rp]Doc> Goodbye

[19:53:24] <✦ [rp] Prince> ya

[In the nether, the Wizard launches into everything that’s been on his mind since he read through Prince’s code.]

[19:53:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> What...exactly are you?

[Prince strikes a cute pose.]

[19:53:49] <✦ [rp] Prince> im a guy! cat guy

[The Wizard rotates his hand.]

[19:53:58] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And what about all the wires...?

[19:54:04] <✦ [rp] Prince> experimentation

[19:54:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah, cyborg cat guy

[They walk in silence for a few beats, before the Wizard needs to know: ]

[19:54:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Do you know what the SCC is?

[19:54:43] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It was all over your Code

[Prince goes pale and quiet, and not just in volume, but in the way he moves. His walk becomes stiff, and his hands stick close to his sides.]

[19:55:08] <✦ [rp] Prince> uh yeah

[The Wizard realizes he’s touched something bad quickly, and tries to back peddle.]

[19:55:09] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh I'm sorry, maybe-

[Then he catches the look on Prince’s face, and every ounce of anger he felt towards him shatters.]

[19:55:22] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Are you alright?

[Prince shrugs. It’s non-committal. His voice is slightly choked.]

[19:55:28] <✦ [rp] Prince> 'm fine

[19:55:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah. Em. Besides that-

[Prince pulls in a breath, pushing through.]

[19:55:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> didnt expect to hear 'em is all

[The Wizard, as gently as he can: ]

[19:56:12] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Is that the experimentation?

[19:56:17] <✦ [rp] Prince> yea

[The Wizard feels his shoulders tense.]

[19:56:28] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I'm sorry, if it's not something you had wanted

[He pauses, then breathes. He can relate to this, even if he can’t say it aloud.]

[19:56:46] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We can't always choose why we were created

[19:56:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Or for what purpose

[19:56:51] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Or what ends

[Prince seems to sober up, some life returns to his step, some motion to his movement.]

[19:56:54] <✦ [rp] Prince> mhm

[19:56:59] <✦ [rp] Prince> i know my purpose

[Something seems to change in Prince, like he realizes what he’s said too late, and what will come next rushes in like the coming tide.]

[19:57:17] <✦[rp] The Wizard> What is your purpose?

[Prince shudders, his mind awakening and taking over his body. He stops stock still in the middle of the road. His muscles tense without him wanting them to, his eyes move and roll, his mouth opens and closes slack like a machine, and a voice that is not his uses his vocal chords to speak. Like an animatronic, with poses and specific mannerisms, he delivers: ]

[19:59:21] <✦ [rp] Prince> It seems you have questioned of what my purpose is! Scout 30201 primary purpose is to serve every and all masters. I was cloned from Cidrich "The Little Prince of Science" Parker, but beware! I do not have many of his genius and disobedient qualities!

[19:59:33] <✦ [rp] Prince> I am made to serve and nothing more! Thank you for asking. ^w^

[He does a programmed pose.]

[The control drops, and Prince shakes his head, he doubles over slightly, and his hand goes to his stomach, nauseous from the sudden control.]

[19:59:36] <✦ [rp] Prince> eugh

[He tries to shake free of it, ashamed when he realizes what the Wizard witnessed.]

[The Wizard stares at him, horrified. He has never seen anything like this before.]

[19:59:38] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh my Void

[19:59:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince, are you okay

[He reaches out, concerned.]

[19:59:52] <✦[rp] The Wizard> That didn't sound like you

[Prince can’t look at the Wizard, he pulls back.]

[19:59:55] <✦ [rp] Prince> automatic response

[19:59:57] <✦ [rp] Prince> its fine

[Prince keeps walking.]

[The Wizard eventually follows. He catches up slowly, letting Prince return to his normal stride a few feet in front of him.]

[20:00:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Prince...do you want to know your Entity name?

[20:00:54] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You might not

[20:01:01] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It might not bring you anything but more...anger

[20:01:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Or pain?

[Prince stops, he is silent for a moment.]

[20:02:01] <✦ [rp] Prince> it probably wont be a surprise.

[The Wizard stops as well, staring at Prince’s back.]

[20:02:12] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Alright.

[20:02:19] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Vessel. Player_Vessel

[Prince looks oddly calm. He turns, slowly, trying to pull on his familiar, jokey face.]

[20:02:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> mhm. not surprising

[The Wizard adds, as quickly as he can.]

[20:02:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It was in your head

[20:03:03] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Next to all of that experimentation nonsense

[20:03:03] <✦ [rp] Prince> my head?

[20:03:10] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Stamped in

[20:03:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Like it was an afterthought

[20:03:45] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It didn't seem like it was put there with all to much care

[Prince looks down again, unable to meet the Wizard’s eyes. He turns to stare out at the lava lake across the way.]

[20:03:40] <✦ [rp] Prince> yeah the scc would do that…

[Both of them are quiet.]

[The Wizard speaks up, voice full of soft concern. Any hate towards this person has gone. He’s worried. Deeply.]

[20:04:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Does that happen a lot..?

[20:04:04] <✦[rp] The Wizard> The automation?

[20:04:19] <✦ [rp] Prince> there's only a few things that trigger it

[20:04:24] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah. I see

[The Wizard joins Prince, stepping up beside him.]

[20:04:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> So there's a lot of you then, all over?

[Prince shrugs.]

[20:04:51] <✦ [rp] Prince> probably, if the scc kept producing me

[Quietly.]

[20:04:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh. I see

[20:05:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I-

[20:05:20] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I wish I could do something

[20:05:30] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But...I'm sure you know

[20:05:34] <✦[rp] The Wizard> The failsafes

[Prince’s face whips towards the Wizard, he looks surprised, his gaze returns to the ocean of lava ahead of them. His expression slowly begins to sour.]

[20:05:58] <✦ [rp] Prince> yeah.

[20:06:13] <✦[rp] The Wizard> I'm surprised Ollie injecting code into this world didn't do anything-

[A hint of peaking emotion: ]

[20:06:22] <✦ [rp] Prince> i dont even know why they would put a failsafe…

[Falling into a dark, gravelly finish.]

[20:06:27] <✦ [rp] Prince> i was cloned to die

[20:06:31] <✦[rp] The Wizard> To die?

[20:06:36] <✦ [rp] Prince> i was never meant to live long

[He wonders, like me?]

[20:06:40] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Just to watch?

[20:06:44] <✦ [rp] Prince> oh no

[20:06:48] <✦ [rp] Prince> guinea pig

[20:06:54] <✦ [rp] Prince> weapons testing

[Response: ]

[20:06:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah.

[Realization: ]

[20:06:59] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ah...

[20:07:08] <✦ [rp] Prince> gladitorial combat oddly

[20:07:18] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, you and-

[20:07:29] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Nevermind, I knew someone who you'd have liked a long time ago

[20:07:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Fighters, in their own right

[20:07:45] <✦ [rp] Prince> ah

[20:07:47] <✦[rp] The Wizard> What lead you here?

[20:08:07] <✦ [rp] Prince> i was. doing a job. i was going to go home

[20:08:17] <✦ [rp] Prince> i went through the portal

[20:08:32] <✦ [rp] Prince> i end up in the taiga where the malfaction would be

[20:08:41] <✦ [rp] Prince> i froze. ceph found me

[20:08:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh, I see

[After a beat: ]

[20:09:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Do they know you're here?

[20:09:18] <✦ [rp] Prince> pff i doubt it

[20:09:27] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Don't care enough, I'm assuming

[20:09:30] <✦ [rp] Prince> im expendable

[The Wizard turns, he means what he says.]

[20:09:37] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You aren't now

[20:09:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> As annoying as you are, if you leaned a little less into the sculk thing, I think you would be loved here

[20:10:02] <✦[rp] The Wizard> People like people

[20:10:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Especially here

[20:10:14] <✦[rp] The Wizard> We need each other, no matter how angry we get, we need each other

[20:10:34] <✦ [rp] Prince> what is a tool without someone to use it?

[Earnest: ]

[20:10:41] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Itself

[Like the answer should be obvious, like there is no other answer: ]

[20:10:47] <✦ [rp] Prince> useless

[Considering, but not accepting the answer: ]

[20:11:00] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Ready to be molded into something new, I think

[20:11:06] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But I'm an optimist

[20:11:10] <✦[rp] The Wizard> It's gotten me this far

[Dismissive: ]

[20:11:20] <✦ [rp] Prince> mhm. and i was doomed to service

[20:11:30] <✦ [rp] Prince> its not all that bad though

[20:11:33] <✦[rp] The Wizard> No?

[20:11:40] <✦ [rp] Prince> im happy serving

[The Wizard considers his face for a while. He believes it.]

[20:11:49] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You are, aren't you?

[20:11:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> i am!

[20:11:57] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Hmm.

[He can’t change Prince’s mind, not in a day.]

[20:12:16] <✦[rp] The Wizard> You're an odd one, Prince

[20:12:26] <✦ [rp] Prince> ^w^

[20:12:31] <✦ [rp] Prince> that i am!

[Prince turns towards the Wisterian portal. The Wizard stops at the edge of it.]

[20:12:43] <✦[rp] The Wizard> And stop leaving sculk in my house Furball I know it's you

[Prince laughs, snapping a finger gun at the Wizard.]

[20:12:52] <✦ [rp] Prince> it was definitely not me

[He shouts: ]

[20:12:56] <✦[rp] The Wizard> But stop by sometime

[20:13:00] <✦ [rp] Prince> mhm

[20:13:02] <✦ [rp] Prince> maybe

[He waggles his hand.]

[20:13:11] <✦[rp] The Wizard> This faction nonsense is...well I'm hoping we'll be through with it soon

[20:13:25] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Anyway, I shouldn't keep you

[He nods for Prince to go on towards the portal.]

[20:13:50] <✦ [rp] Prince> well. be seeing you

[Prince instead walks backwards off the walkway and into the lava pool.]

[20:13:54] ✦ [rp] Prince tried to swim in lava

[20:13:55] <✦[rp] The Wizard> Oh Void!

[The Wizard mutters: ]

[20:14:07] <✦[rp] The Wizard> An odd one indeed....

Doc / Wizard / Prince - [8-03-23]