Blitz Boom

@Props Valroa (Spectra) "Yes, I feel the leash tightening ever more..." More of her big scale plans. At this point, he would not be surprised if she would begin to infiltrate the high command in Troy, and build towards being able to have them invade Equestria, under false pretense, using various anti-magic weaponry. In the chaos, it'd only be her that would really win, and both countries would be irreversibly worse off for it. Not that she'd care, as she would continue to pull her strings, cackling somewhere in the shadows. And he were part of it, with only death being an escape. And he weren't even sure if that would end up being the case, or if it wouldn't just be the beginning of a worse fate, still under her control. Or maybe he got lucky, and the construct would vaporize him in his sleep. What a... *Nice* thought that were. His mood soured, as she all but confirmed what he had sarcastically suspected, mere moments before. Just a wanton lust for power, caring not who got trampled in the path, or who it were... He had often been called a monster, for what he did, but he disagreed. He did not consider himself a monster, as he did not kill or maim indiscriminately. He made certain that his captures and torture, had not resulted in harm for the wrong ones. Spectra had no such qualms, and even gloated about doing so gleefully. This were the face of a true monster. One wrapped in the visage of an innocent mare, who hadn't a clue what had happened to her... He felt disgusted just thinking about it. "Troy? Oh, you will get what you deserve there, witch... Just you wait and see. They won't let you get away with all your evil." She tried to move where she looked, but Yuma couldn't even do that. She were locked powerless in this monster's body, haunting her until... When actually? Forever? At least until she died, and if she were going to Troy, she might get lucky and find that eternity would last a good while less. Not that she usually wished death and misery upon others, but this mare deserved it! And so did he. She remembered that one talking to her, and then starting to play music. Next thing she knew, she ended up like this. He were just as guilty as she were, and he knew it too. Why else would he constantly avert his eyes, and not look directly at them? He knew what he had done, and he should get what came to him, all the same. Monsters the both of them! Grr... If only she could move around. Why wasn't she able to? She thought ghosts were like, mobile or something. Why couldn't she turn herself? Were haunting like covering someone like a coat? Were she stuck inside, just looking out? She didn't knew which one were worse, but they were both uncomfortably horrible! What had she done to deserve something like this? Sure she wasn't the best pony in the world. She knew that. But this... This were way too harsh of a punishment for anything she had ever done, and frankly worse than she knew anypony deserved. Being exiled to another dimension, or just flat out killed, were merciful compared to this nightmare. ====================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) Jargon wrinkled his nose at the suggesting, and scribbled down a few things. "Hmm, yes. That could be a distinct possibility... There is no real way to add anti magic, without complications to the resident. And the material for the anti-magic materials are still highly guarded by the royal guards. Still, I can ask in about a countermeasure perhaps. If magical fire can be an issue, perhaps there is a magical countermeasure. I will inquire, and report back when I know more, Madame Rich." It was a small oversight, but could prove important. He'd make sure to correct this mistake, and see what options they might have. Perhaps something with the sprinkler system, could be implemented to better work against things? Clayton would know better how to have it done, and he would have to include that. It were imperative that this new home were not ruined, like the old one were. He would remain silent, for the short remainder of their time. He had said what he had to, and it appeared that she had several things to think of herself. Primarily regarding what she'd say to her husband and foal, when they would be reunited, he could imagine. It wouldn't be long now. Within five minutes, they would land at the outskirts of Ponyville. Not that the trip were not to the door, but the last bit of the way the carriage would have to be driven normally. It were town ordinance to not have vehicles flying over like this, as it wasn't safe for the locals, or the cart, in case it veered off. The service did not include the hefty fine that would result in, so their drivers would take the last bit of the trip on ground. They would more or less just ignore the locals, nodding at best in response to any sort of greeting, and just keep going on their way, towards the mansion that Spoiled Rich would be residing within. "We will be there shortly now. I can imagine they will at first be overwhelmed at seeing you, then ask questions. I took the liberty of bringing this along for that." He'd open his briefcase, and show the test kit as it were, that he had used on her earlier. "It should be sufficient to handle any concerns they might have, regarding your authenticity at least. I will leave the rest in your capable hooves, Madame Rich." If she had naught to say, they would arrive at the mansion not long after, but she'd get a chance to look out, and see the locals wandering about all the same. A few who would even notice and remember her. Judging fromt he surprise, then weariness, they remembered her quite well, in fact, and her sudden reappearance would end up being part of the day's rumor mill. Unless she didn't try to look out. The seats were well places, so that if you didn't care to look out, you'd have to be quite tall for others to see who sat in here specifically. So it did come down somewhat, to how she wanted to approach this. Regardless, when they eventually arrived at the mansion, neither her husband, nor daughter were in sight. It were mostly a gardener, and then of course, Randolph. He were currently inspecting the yardwork, making sure that everything were ready for later today, lest he'd be put on line for a messy entrance. Not that it was his job, but as the head butler, the blame would always return to him somehow. Thankfully things seemed mostly in order, though he would go and correct a vase quickly, that were a few inches too far to the side of its pedestal. Not a lot would care, but oh, if Mrs. Rich were still here, she'd have him flogged he bet. She always expected things to be immaculate. Especially out here, where the public could see it. Couldn't have it be said in town, that the Rich family were as sloppy as any farm pony, no sire.

@Illiad Easle (Null) Arcade, Ardee- Whomever got her stirred, were annoying her a bit. Null wasn't much of a morning pony in all honesty. When she finally managed to find a patch of peace and calm, she were the sort who liked to soak it in, as best she could, because who knew when the next time would come to happen again. It weren't that bad anymore, but everything took getting used to, and she'd have liked to lay down for a few more hours. But alas, life called, and there were plenty to do, so she better just get over herself. Seemed like the name of the game right now, were gonna be to help with some wings. Looking it over - once she had rubbed the sleep from her eyes - she could see some swelling, so it made sense enough, that she had some issues there. Shouldn't be too hard to solve for now. "Yeah, I can help you. Just take it easy. The swelling's probably gonna make this hurt a bit." Looked like it hurt a fair bit actually, but... It would be brief at least, even if she were being careful. Which she was. She didn't want Ardee to get hurt more, because of her. As Arcade would start to leave the room, looking for food, she'd give him a shoutout. "I dunno if maybe they also run a breakfast buffet. Try look there for a start, and I'll help Ardee a bit." Wasn't gonna be pleasant, but they'd get there eventually. Hopefully it would help a bit when around halfway, the small fox would pop up again, and go jump on Ardee, to help try to ease the pain a bit. It figured that trying to help her with the pain, over the swelling, was the better option, though it did feel a bit perky. Maybe it was the feather stuck in its folds? It wasn't sure, but it would channel energy into Ardee, but this time, not overdoing it. It didn't want to end up all out of juice again. Now they were safe, it wanted to be awake for its pamphlet. Once they were both tucked in, Null would chew her lower lip a bit, trying to find the right words to open up what to say here. "...I'm sorry for underestimating you, Ardee. I wanted so badly to keep you out of danger, that I pushed you right into the middle of it. I just... I couldn't bare the thought of going back, and having to tell my sister, and your siblings, that you died, because I couldn't keep you safe. It'd shatter them." =========================================================== (Void) "Of course. I was aiming that yours is the first, but I want to mark the occasion for all of you, including the date when you got your marks. But I'm adding that to the name plate. The same goes for everyone else, so we can celebrate their mark day, and I hope, it will also make you remember that no matter how long time have passed, and how far away you might end up, there'll always be someone who loves you, and a home that will welcome you." "It can be wherever you want it to be, honey." She were surprised by the hug afterwards, but even before she felt the tear, she'd lean in, and gently embrace her little angel. "It's okay honey, I understand. Having little doesn't make it easy to celebrate things. I've been there, and it is sometimes hard to even feel good, when you don't even know if there's food on the table tomorrow. But you've been through enough. You deserve a home, peace, and unending, unconditional love. And I promise, I'll give everything I have, to make sure you get that." She'd plant a kiss on Toupé's forehead, and then stroke her mane, much in the same way her own mother had done, when she were growing up. Void always saw foals in her life, someday. First as friends, but as she grew older, she knew that someday, she wanted a family too. Something that Null encouraged, and promised her that someday, she'd get. Even if they had to walk to the ends of the earth to find it. This were not how she imagined it would happen, but Void felt right now. This were her family, and it didn't matter to her, if some of them wandered to places far away, or got adopted away, by others who were eager to shower them with love and affection. They were, and always would be her children, and they'd always be welcome home with her. The picture were not complete, but... If she were to do this alone, that would be okay. These foals were more important, than any stallion could ever be, and if that were an issue, they had no place in her life. It struck her briefly, that she had given the same promise, that Null gave to her several times. Yet where her sisters had been said in desperation, anger, or as a way to stay sane, Void felt none of that. She felt only warmth in her chest, along with Toupé's tears, but she didn't mind. If she needed this, then she could continue, for as long as she needed it.

@Evil Pink One Mate, Chop isn't scared of Shark. You're thinking about the griffon floor sweeper. Chop is neutral.

@EQ_Theta "We kitsune are highly magical creatures, well in tune with the flow of magic that permeates the very air around us, and the ground we stand upon. In our race's earlier history, we harnessed that primarily to make use of illusions, and we have only fine tuned it as we have evolved. It is in fact, the thing that our young are taught as almost their very first set of spells, so they can hide from danger. When we grow older, we make us of it well, when we go out and explore the world. Mostly when we are found out to have been in an area, is because especially the young and inexperienced, cannot help themselves, in playing games with strangers, or get involved in things they believe they out to. Some also just find it humorous to reveal themselves briefly to one being, and then laugh as they start screaming about giant foxes, and make a fool of themselves. I can understand why. It can be rather amusing." Elder Zhao were a venerated teacher and elder, that were given much, well earned respect. But she too had been young, and filled with both wanderlust and mischief. She did not apologize for pranks such as this, and had learned much from seeing how other creatures acted upon that. But that were then, and these days, she would not be easily tempted. Not to say she wouldn't do it, just that she were better at understanding when the right time for such an act were. "in any case, if the time comes where he is ready, have Omen transport him to our town, and then approach our halls. She would seem the safest route of transport, for anyone to get to our town, for both us, and the other party involved." It were an annoying security breach, but it were not much of a big issue. Primarily because of who Omen were a byproduct of, and the fact that she had doubts they could stop her. Besides, she seemed friendly enough, albeit somewhat peculiar. Omen would look at Sen for a moment, pondering what he were saying, before she answered. Most things of what he said were something she understood, but there were that one thing, that she needed to try and grasp, and yet, there were naught for her to grasp on to, and so she would give that up, soon after. "We handle the dangerous things, like they told us. I go and look, and then we find out from there, yes? If the meeting goes well, perhaps they can come and help looking? They seem smart about these things. But I do not know what to expect from the meeting, or what it will mean. I will just do as you, Rosa, and Ghilan have told me to, and then answer their questions. If they will help, I do not know, but I will answer the things you have not told me I can. And I am not intimidated, I think? I do not know what that would be like. I do not think I am different from before, if that answers it?" Being intimidated required some emotions to rear up. Anxiety, fear, concern- A lot in the same *genre*, as it were. Regardless of the term though, Omen did not feel it. She only barely felt any emotion at the best of times, and fear were one that might have passed her vaguely, back when Lin were going to get her new body, but a meeting? Nothing stirred there, except thoughts at times, wondering what they would look like, or ask about. "This center holds a strong connection, to the nature spirits. If one could hear, this is one of the places, were the potential would reveal itself. Had you an ear for it, their voices would have been if not loud, then at least clear to you. You must both know, that this is not to say that you have no chance of being listeners, but it will be due to an outside force, if it does come to happen. Certain trauma, or encounters with special creatures, can plant the talent within you. Yet at this point, I in honest do not think that this is your calling. Yet still, I thank you for entertaining my request. It would have been an experience, to have non-kitsune, learning the craft. Well then, Omen, if you would please?" Omen would wander over, and try to go in, but the path would close before her. She'd just wander through the water, not thinking much of it. Her trip in there would last around six minutes, before the waters parted, letting her escape again. And by the looks of things, something had happened in there, as she looked both damp, and windblown, with some leaves stuck in her ever-moving mane and tail. She would also cough up a few leaves, when approaching, but then grab them with her tongue, and bring them in to be chewed. "It seems you had an eventful time. What happened?" "I walked through water, then the wind began blowing. Then more water, that had leaves in them. I think the pillow is wet now." "Did you hear any voices?" "...Does laughter count? I think I heard that, when I got splashed with water in my face." The elder blinked once, then smirked a little wider. "Probably not, it were likely just the wind and water through foliage. Yet I will try and find an answer, when the spirits have calmed. It seems your presence caused them a stir." "I am not overly surprised. Considering her connection, I would have thought it more unusual, if it were simple and quiet in there." "I had half expected for Him to show up personally, but still, I did not expect this. I shall look forward to hearing what they have to say of this, when they are ready. Though do not get your hopes up. I can imagine they were simply feeling playful. Why, I have a student whose tail they snared four meters of tangled river weeds to. He were wise enough to play along, rather than get upset, and were acknowledged by River, because of that. He's a promising young kit, silly as he gets around the spirits." =========================================================== @Evil Pink One Shark would stop getting into chase mode, and just let he griffon run off. She can't remember ever seeing him before, but maybe he had seen her when she were chasing and eating the big frogs? Some of the friends did not seem to like that, even though she had been told they were food. Oh well, maybe she should ask them someday, but right now, she were on a date. She wasn't sure what that were exactly, but she were on one, and it were her mate that had said it, so she would believe it was something good. Maybe it meant that they were going to get food? She should try and remember that, if that were the case. Speaking of getting food, when he were talking to the mare at the counter, he'd find that she didn't turn around just yet, as she were finishing up the counter, but she would, soon as he had given out the order on his behalf. That said, she'd barely pay attention to him at first, as she'd see Shark, and jump in place, looking surprised, then grinning widely. "Hah! I knew it! Chop! Come out here for a moment." She'd be calling back towards the kitchen as she said that, and a hooffull of seconds later - a time where she'd stand and step in place expectingly, while Shark looked on in confusion and joy, since y'know, smiling friend - a stallion would emerge to look at what the fuss were about. This one Shark noticed quite a bit, and it were hard not to for most. Chop Chop were a little over average size, and well fit. He were however, also in possession of several scars, that looked like something had torn into him, with large, sharp teeth. Particularly, the one around his torso stood out, as it covered both sides, showing a rather large maw had gone around his torso. The scar tissue were looking somewhat old, but combined with the ones going over his face, the fact he didn't smile often, and that steely gaze of his, Chop usually had others step away from him, when they met him, as he looked intimidating to them. Shark were not one of them. "*gasp* Friend bit by Shark! Not Shark shark, but other shark." "Hah, she knew. And I told you she were real! A land shark, right here in Ponyville." "Hmph. Figured she'd be bigger. And yeah, shark bites. Why'd you ask?" "Shark know teeth of shark, and Shark no like that friend got bit. It very bad. Friend is not food." "...I'll go turn up the stove. Something tells me she's here for food." "Friend has fishy?" He'd just nod, and go back into the kitchen. He had some work to do now. "Huh... Well, I'm sure it'll be good, whatever he gets you. Chop's a good chef, just kinda antisocial. You can have your coffee for now sir, and anything for you to drink?" Shark went and looked up at all the strange pictures, and lines of text, not knowing what the vast majority were. "...Water for Shark?" "You got it." The barista would get the coffee - soon as Light specified which of the 37 variants they had, that he wanted - and a can of water ready, and come over to their table with it, and say that the food would be there soon. Meanwhile, Shark would sniff at the coffee, but hadn't intended on drinking it. Not until Light offered her to try, in which case she'd cautiously lean over, and stick her tongue down, lapping a few droplets of it, and then go back to her side of the table, looking thoughtful. "...Shark not sure. Taste funny, not sure if bad. But water good." She'd lean over and stick her head into the thankfully wide can, so she could lap up some water. =============================================================================== @Lawyer Slip Ziggy looked on, getting concerned from what she heard. The medical parts anyway, as the other things still sounded a bit out there, but then again, who was it hurting, even if it wasn't true? And if it were... Cool. Sort of. There were some not so cool stuff in there. "Awh, poor guy. Maybe him and the filly in the woods would have gotten along. She have severe amnesia, where she can't remember a thing before waking up in a crater in the forest. She couldn't even remember her big brother, when he found her, and took her back to Deltrot. He had pictures to show it were real though, and he were a tinkerer like her. Said she'd been making explosives since she was five, so that fit what she were doing in the forest. Anyway, I had a look at her, but I wouldn't be able to help either. It's not my specialty. I'm more of a general doctor, with a specialty in setting bones. Your friends probably needs a CT scan, and perhaps a hypnotherapist to try and unlock his memories. Least he's somewhat healthy, though uh... Well, I know he's your friend, but maybe you should consider convincing him to get checked for the voices? Some medication might help with that. Like I said, it's not my specialty, but it does sound like he might have schizophrenia, and getting some treatment for that, might do him some real good. It's his own decision though. Unless he's a danger to himself or others, that sorta thing comes down to a personal choice. It's really good of you to try and take care of him either way. It sounds like he could really use a friend these sort of days, and like you said, a caring big brother. Hehe, also a boat load of hugs, but I can make that happen. I just looove hugs! Some days, I just sit in a cloud and wait for the right time to swoop down, and do a quick swoop-by hug. Not for too long though, I have excessive levels of energy production. If I sit down for too long, I end up getting jittery. Usually why I start off my mornings just swooping around for an hour, to get the worst out of my system, so I can focus on what to do, the rest of the day. What about you? Like, what do you love? Cooking?"

@Props Valroa (Spectra) "You could likely run a smear campaign, but I doubt it would do much. Phantasma has the adoration of many. They'll either end up ignoring what she may have done, or just believe it rumors with no facts to it. Or believe all she did, were fort he good of the kingdom. She's good at getting the populace on her side. Nopony seems to like Shade, with the most glowing compliment I ever heard about him, being that he's at least effective. You might be able to make him act less publicly, but I don't think he'd care about that enough to make him stop chasing you. At least I don't think there's much of a reason for him to worry about being seen and pointed out, when he can literally move through shadows. But that's just what I can gather. It isn't as if we'd ever move in the same social circles. Mayhap Troy would know more, but I don't want to get involved in whatever dealings you want to have with them. Whatever secrets you wish to share with them, in exchange for goods or favors, are not things I want to know." In large parts because he believed those information, were not come by kindly. It would be tainted in blood, and the more he learned of Spectra, from wandering around with her, the more he were faced with the fact that said blood, were indiscriminately drawn. A fact that made him feel further dread, but this pit in his stomach were something he doubted he'd be rid off, anytime soon. Not when he didn't even have his girls with him anymore, to bring him some modicum of comfort. "They will still see a testament to whom they have to blame for this, real face or not. A symbol of whom hurt them, and tore deeply into their country. Congratulations on becoming the next Discord, I suppose. Except you're not trapped in your statue." The *Yet* part at the end, would hang silently in the air, though he wouldn't mind if that became actual. It wasn't as if she did not deserve such treatment, after all she had done. Though of course, Discord got out again, eventually. It'd likely be best if she did not. Maybe put her statue with her in it, down into a giant block of cement, and toss it somewhere where nature would not undo the work, with any ease? *sigh* He knew it wouldn't happen. The statue were likely to e moved to a museum eventually, along with the story of that villainess, at some point after they had defeated her. Or she'd win, and she'd make the construct craft her more, to parade around her palace. Either way, he did not expect this statue to be used for anything overly important. He also had nothing else to say for now, lest she brought something up, or something would block their path eventually. Or they reached the point where they were told they had to carry the boat in a path away from Deltrot, to avoid the main city. It were on the map, and in the distance too. "A statue filled with fire ants, I ho- Wait, what the hay is that thing?!" It appeared that Yuma had not only reappeared, but now finally managed to see through what were once her own eyes. And she had seen the construct out of it, which were a bizarre monster to her. Likely a lackey of this horrible creature that had killed her, that she were now seemingly haunting. =================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) "He assured me that they would make use of materials and building techniques this time, that would ensure that even if a fire did break out, it would be unable to consume the house. I believe he might have found it a stab to his pride as it were, that the last one caught up in flames in the first place. I will make sure to ask further into things, as the building goes along, and run the information around with another professional as needed, to make sure that the claim holds true." It wouldn't look well, to have 2 houses in the same place, burn down to a crisp. Not even thinking about the costs and reputation, it would give the more superstitious members of high society, a reason to consider the place cursed, and thus it could become harder to have gatherings, collect funding for various things, keep friends in general- Various things that in and by themselves did little, but as a whole, would cause annoyance and problems for Spoiled Rich and her family. Best that would not end up being the case. Also, the resale value would plummet, and that tended to cause a slew of other problems. Certain ponies who did not want the property values to go down, could become quite troubling, if they had something to gang up on, and focus down. Much as she were a stern mother, in the eyes of many, she were still Tiara's mother. It were only natural that she would miss her presence eventually, even if she weren't gonna run around and bawl her eyes out to everypony in town. That weren't suited for a young filly, that were above most others in social status. Spoiled would likely end up seeing an emotional daughter when she returned, as well as husband. He had been worn down a bit by all the things that happened after she went missing, including now being a single parent for the last almost three years. With the added stress of having to look into funeral arrangements for a ceremonial burial in a few months, when his wife would be declared legally dead, he were getting some sleepless nights, and found himself losing some of the hope he once had, that she'd eventually return back to them. And that were not even touching on his worries for the future, especially regarding Tiara, whom he had at times believed were getting a somewhat bad influence from her mother, but still, she also had a good impact on making their filly a stronger, more self-reliant pony. Without her, how would Tiara turn out later? Especially when she'd hit her hormonal teenage years, where he wouldn't know what to do. Then of course, there were the leeches that had come out of the bushes, but he did his to try not to think about them. It just made him angry. As for the lawyer... He would give Rich a bit of time to read the letter. He had brought it in the documents, because he believed it would be good for her, to see that her family did actually miss her, and weren't just looking forward to reaping the benefits. A little time to ponder that, would likely be good for her. "Your husband is still the sole proprietor of your estate, in case you did get declared dead. He would have the legal right to make a claim against any inheritance you might have in your will, if he looks at them unfavorably. I have seen enough of them though, to believe that you going missing, and then seeing your family left behind, have also made some develop sympathy. Others I suspect, are just bidding their time, and won't make a large fuss until what they thought were the day, when the will would be read out. Your cousins Money Bags and Time Matters, have been consistent in contacting me on occasion though, to just hear if I had any news about you, in ways that made it clear that they remain worried about you, and hope you return. I've not had a single request for anything of value from either of them. Just wants for news, and asking me to send their best to your husband and filly. I believe they will be genuinely happy to see you are still alive, Madame Rich." It were cousins on two different branches of the family, with Money Bags being just a regular, high society socialite, and Time Matters from a part of the family tree that had a rougher time, but had pulled himself up and controlled a vast number of successful watch and jewelry stores, around Equestria. He were a hard working sort, that hadn't the most time back then, to go visit family for simply social calls, but he'd make the trip at times. As would Money Bags, though hers were more down to whenever she felt like it. She had enough inherited wealth, and business, that she never had to lift a hoof for anything, and neither would her offspring likely. A bit of a dingus, but a good hearted sort. The cart flew over the far edges of the Everfree Forest by now. And on the other side of this vast expanse, would be her home and family, unsuspecting of the surprise that were coming their way. ============================================================================== (Treasure) The two had been very persistent and insisting, that the old unicorn told them every little detail that he recalled about his former student. And what they heard, certainly gave them reason to think that this were their culprit's early days, and potential real name. A mare frustrated that magic eluded her, that saw failure from the greatest unicorn in the land, unable to help her with her affliction. Desperation turned to villainy, were not an unheard of story. It were a depressing regularity in story, yet this were one that were overall unheard of. Just somepony who had been forgotten in the cracks of history it seemed. A troubling thing, when that sort happened, and a surprise enemy then suddenly reared their heads one day. Still, they had some information now, and likely proof that the one they had vision on, were the correct one to chase after. That were going to be useful for them, as were anything else that he could tell them. As a matter of fact, seeing as he had a stake in this, and were a renowned unicorn, they would ask him to come along. Well, *ask* were saying so much. More specifically, they would tell him that in the interest of the safety of Equestria, and because he were the closest they had to an expert on their enemy, he were required to come with them. They would not care if they needed to pla6y off his potential guilt over his former student now being the mass murderer that she were - including Shade telling about what happened at the base that she had caused to explode - even if it seemed rough. They needed him to come along, due to his expertise, his role as an Equestrian defender in general, and because it might bring in the others of his group, in case they needed to bring the battle to her. They would need every advantage they could muster. Their trip now, would not be to the hut with the treasure though. It were time to return to Canterlot for now, and inform the generals of what they knew now, then get updates on what had happened in their absence. They could return to look at other things that Shade had managed to bring along, after everypony were caught up. The trip now being slower, as they'd have to make sure that Starswirl got with them. Unless he could teleport that were. Neither of them were fully aware of what he were able to do. Shade were tempted to just kidnap him, in case he were not as willing to be useful, but he'd behave. He would go and try to convince the generals to have the princesses send him a formal call for action though, if he had no other options. The old unicorn, were not going to be allowed to just sit this out, if he had a say in it.

@Illiad Easle Null would not be able to stop the tears, or find her words again, as she heard Arcade talk to her, saying the words that she needed to hear, and holding her, to try and bring her comfort. She didn't know how she deserved someone as good to her as him. He were attentive, loving... He were everything to her, and times as this, when she needed him the most, she just felt it even stronger. When he were done speaking, she still hadn't a word to find, much as she felt like speaking. Her head full of a jumbled mess of things she wanted to say to him, twisting and turning in a chaotic mess, but... She knew what it boiled down to, in her heart. And so she let herself answer not with words, but action, as she pushed forward, engaging him in a passionate kiss, tears still streaming from her eyes. She didn't deserve someone this good, but she thanked whatever sliver of kindness left in this world, that he were here, with her, and she would not let him go. Currently literally, as she kept the kiss going, hugging him close for a time, until eventually she would fall asleep in his grip. Had they been alone, perhaps she would be less... Restrained, but a small part of her were still aware, that Ardee were here. Perhaps another time, it would be a night just for them, but still, she did not complain. Here at the end of the bed, close to her love, she felt as happy as she ever think she could be. She would rest soundly, until the others would begin to stir. She wouldn't be happy to let go of Arcade and wake up, but she'd begrudgingly slowly open her eyes, that were a little puffed up from her previous crying. "Nnngh... What time is it?" =============================================================================== (Void) "They're plenty good, long as they're motivated. And don't you worry, they're persistent, but I make sure to keep a close eye on them, so they don't get hurt. A lot easier, once they got transfixed by the balloons. A lot of young foals tend to be transfixed by them. *sigh* I remember looking on at carnivals, just seeing hundreds of foals walking around with balloons. floating around... It were magical. It's honestly nice to finally see that wonder and amazement up close." Null and her rarely actually got into the carnivals. Too many there, so it were too easy to get noticed, with their abilities, with so many magical sources, all over the place. But they did like to watch it from the outskirts, and enjoy the sounds and lights, and imagine what it would be like to walk in and try things. Not that they didn't at times. Wander in, that were. Sadly they couldn't go and waste their limited funds on the stuff you could do there, as the things were expensive, and even if they had more to work with than normally, they could do other things with the money instead, that would be good. Like getting coats, or a room for a few days, or a week. They were both fascinated with the plushies you could try and throw balls for, but they had seen enough to know it were mostly a scam, and thus just a waste of money. They did go around and loot things though. Not directly from the stands or anything. They weren't thieves per se. More like dropped things, and leftover food abandoned somewhere, maybe a half soda here and there, if they got lucky- It were all fair game to them, and would be the closest they got to enjoying a carnival, or other such gatherings. Some times they were luckier than others, but they liked the leftovers they managed to get hold of. It were a nice change in their normal diet at times, and felt like a rare, well earned treat. She outta take the younglings here to a festival one day, when those sorts of things would be starting up again. Just the whole family, or at least as much of it as were possible. Ardee and Arcade as well. "And don't you worry about the wall. The little darlings didn't break anything there, nor on the table. It's surprises. The table we'll see soon, but I actually would like for you to unveil what I placed on the wall, Toupé. It's a little extra present, that I hope you'll like. Come on and gather up everyone." If Toupé unveiled it, it would turn out to be a mosaic. Smaller than the rest she had presented, but it were big enough, to show what she wanted it to: Toupé's cutie mark. It hadn't been easy, and she had to pull an all nighter mostly because she had to make this, and her other present, but she believed it was well worth it, and she hoped, the start of a tradition, where she could get one up for each of them, as they'd eventually get their marks. And like with this one, she might need to gently carve in small details in, like had been the case with Toupé's lettering, to the best of her abilities. She personally thought it looked accurate, but she might be wrong with the minor things. Hopefully it would be okay though. The underside had a small circle screw, seemingly making it possible to hang something from it. "Surprise! I thought this would be a nice way to celebrate, and mark the occasion. I've left a spot at the bottom, to hang a plate with your name on, when you know for sure what you want to do with that." Cherish were impressed at least, but she waited saying something. Void had seen her, and had smiled and given her a wave, but this were Toupé's important moment. She'd get to say hello soon enough.

@Rising Dusk Sorry for missing some posts! Here's a giant boop to make up for it.

Sorry if it's a bit below par this time. Work's been draining my mind, but hopefully it will be satisfactory.

@EQ_Theta "I would welcome the meeting. If not here, then Zhao could speak with him on your premise. I'm sure that she could pass as one of you fairly well." Elder Zhao would have a shimmer go over her, as she shifted her visage into that of a longma, similar to Lin, but without her shadowy features, and in a slightly different color. "I have passed as more complex things. And before you ask, this is not a shapeshift. This is an advanced illusion. It takes actual skill, or anti-magic capabilities to know better." They could try and poke her. It would feel like the hide of a real Longma. "A fine illusion, will trick the eyes. A good illusion, will trick reality. To a certain extend." It would fade, with a motion akin to a wind blowing it all of of her. She did not need to waste magic without reason, just to keep this up for more than the lesson required. "Feel not bad about it, Sen. It is a rare skill, that befalls few. I am certain you will find your talents elsewhere." SHe would lie if she had said she hadn't hoped, as it would be fascinating with one that were not of their kin, being under her tutelage. But there were still his sister left, who seemed eager to try herself too. Much like with Sen, the bubble would close as she entered, and the voices of the elements would begin anew. "Hey, there's another one with scales!" "Eh, if the other one could listen, why would this one?" "Shush, she has shadow wings!" "I think it's webbings. Is she a spider?" "Spider with four legs, and no fangs? Hehe, that'd be silly." "Maybe it's a kind of dragon. Can I poke her?" The sounds would be as before. If Lin could understand it however, were hard to say. Sen had no luck, but she had proven unusual in many ways. It might be discouraging for Sen however, if his sister again would turn out to be excelling in something peculiar, leaving him behind as a seemingly just regular, standard longma. Not everyone could handle that, and not get jealous. Meanwhile Omen would go over to Sen, and angle her neck so that she could look into his eyes. In case he did not look at her that were, as she spoke to him. She saw others look right at the one they were talking to, so she tended to do the same, and eye contact especially seemed important to her. The fact she didn't blink, being creepy to most creatures, did not cross her mind, even a little. Part of that whole *Personal space* thing that she weren't all that up to speed with. Wasn't like Discord discouraged that kind of behavior either. It were more the exact opposite, as he loved invading personal spaces, and have some fun with the ones in question. As he put it, *They should liven up, and adore the majesty of me.*. "Sen? Are you okay?" ============================================================== @Lawyer Slip He would not even get to finish the sentence, before Ziggy had zoomed over, and embraced him in a tight hug, her large frame looming over him, and her coat smelling like peppermint. Likely a perfume she wore. As for the hug, it would be over soon after, with Ziggy letting him go again, though grinning even wider. She loved the post-hug rush she felt. Ziggy had been silent through the story. Not a word would pass her lips, but she had a rather expressive face, showing that she weren't sure how much of it that she believed, but she would listen, and try to keep an open mind regardless. It were just that... Well, humans, y'know? That were an old fairy tale. And she had no idea what a particle accelerator were, but it sounded sciency. But like she said, this place had all sorts of weird creatures. Why not this too? Worst case, he were imagining it, and it didn't hurt anypony, so she saw no reason to rat him out, as it were. After he had sent Slipstream away, she drank her water, and were about to respond, when he said something more. Something she could tangibly respond to right off the bat. She'd circle around to the implausible story later, when there were no worry time over Rich to handle. That seemed prudent, as he were the one potentially causing himself unintentional harm. "Well, yeah. He hits himself in the head. And that's all fine and good, until you hit too hard, or rattle something just the wrong way, and end up with a brain hemorrhage. It's concerning behavior, and I hope he'll stop it, before he gets seriously injured. I'm a doctor, I don't like seeing others hurt. Especially not if it's done by themselves. Do you know why he does that? It kinda looks to me like he's having an argument with himself sometimes, and tries to make the other voice in his head go shush." She hadn't a clue he could read minds, but looking at hers, if he decided too, there'd be worry, thoughts on Slipstream, Rich, and just a whoooole lot of background music and thoughts of frolicking bunnies and bright rainbows, as well herself flying through it, lifting a chunky duck over her head, giggling like this were a dream come true. She had some silly thoughts at times, but she didn't mind, long as it didn't interfere with her thoughts during something important. ============================================================= @Evil Pink One "Maaar-keeet. Market. Wet market... Fishy place? Shark like fishy place." They'd sadly have absolutely no luck finding that sort here in town however. While they got tourists who ate meat through, a full on fish market were a no go, in large parts due to it not being enough to sustain a market, and Fluttershy. Those who did need it for a snack, or as were the case of the cook at Slappy Joe's, tended to go and fish themselves, to get the raw materials. That said, if they went asking around, they'd be told that said coffee shop had fish, and they could go and purchase a meal there. That would be an option. It were in the other end of town, and if they went in the door, a scrawny looking griffon would look up from his job of brooming the floor, to gaze at them, and went pale, then rushed off to the back room, without a word. Weren't a lot in right now, beyond a few getting a tall cup of coffee, so they wouldn't have to wait in line, though the mare at the counter were turned the other way, as she were cleaning the area. Had to look nice and sparkly after all. "Bird is silly. Run like prey, hehe. Shark chase?" She wasn't aware that he had run scared, and believed it to be perhaps an invitation to a game, like she knew them from the sea, or saw small ponies do at that other school place. A nice friend game. Though if he said no, she'd just follow him, and start to sniff the air profoundly. This place smelled weird, but in a good way. She hadn't smelled coffee properly before, so this were new. Also something that Light should definitely not ever let her drink. Caffeine were not meant for things with big teeth, and little in the way of inhibitions. =================================================================== @Catpone Cerberus Oof, that was a rather grim statement about his home world. Not a lot of love for his roots, which really painted a pretty bleak image, of how his home world must actually be. At least from his perspective. "I used to be scared of water. These days it will take a substantial amount for me to be overly concerned about it. Furthermore, I have nothing else to do for the day. I completed the task I had set for myself, in helping the O.M.I. as they helped me. Being helpful to you, seems more interesting that going and log some minor data into a spreadsheet. That can wait until later. Likewise, I would want to hear more too. Speaking with one from another world, is a fascinating encounter, and I do wonder of your experiences since arriving here, among other things." She'd grab her briefcase, and get ready for them to move out. She assumed this were some kind of maybe scientific crime. Potentially a biochemical he needed evaluated? Or a corpse in a strange state of decomposition? There had been some of those, as part of studies in Center Zero at times. Nothing her lab got involved with, but there were many departments, with their own specialties. Some required the studies of death tissue. "I would like to state that if this requires examination of dead tissue, or a being in advanced, necrosis, I have prior experience. I sometimes got sent to other departments for tasks, back in Center Zero. You get to see quite a few things like that." ================================================================== @Catpone Cerberus "I don't believe that you're feeling any good, but... We'll get through this. At least it's good knowing Charir made it out. The door were a mess when we went to look at it last time." Leviathan were worried, and it were clear to see in her eyes, and hear in her voice, but Ruby were tough. Not enough to not be affected by the curse it seemed, judging by some of her movements, but enough to soldier through this, and she did not need to be pitied right now, or a shoulder to cry on. Didn't mean that she'd stop worrying though. Ruby was probably her closest friend already. They had a solid bond going, and that didn't allow Leviathan to feel at ease, when she were hurt, and being cursed with magic that would kill her if she left, without the forced job done, certainly counted as being hurt. Oh how she wished she could just burn those two into their base atoms for this... *sigh* At least Charir had gotten out of here alive and well. That were a good sign, as she didn't want to think of him being trapped in a cage somewhere. It were a weight off of her shoulder to know he had gotten out and away from this sort of misery. The deer were not deterred, and just kept following her. She could use that to her advantage likely, leading him on to follow her towards wherever they were going. The basement as it were, soon as they could find an entrance for it. "Okay, that creepy little... Whatever, seems to be focused on you. Let's just keep him in sight, and lead on. It sounded like we needed to do something int he basement, that included him. We'll probably see when we get there." All the undead in the room had left by now, so it would be simple for them to move back the way they had come from, and start searching for the path. Now without any undead, they could start to look further for other paths, without anything getting in the way. The sole one they met, would instantly turn around and wander down a different path when seeing them. It did not seem they would be attacked currently. Likely orders from the leader, as they were now under enough pressure to not need to be brought in. If they looked in the last room, there were a loose door, if they searched the walls. It were well hidden, having seemingly been meant to not be traversed. Leviathan could find it by searching around, pushing here and there, but it were likely easier for Ruby, as there were a pair of gold-plated antlers behind it, leading down. A warning sign to some. Treasure to others. Though Ruby might need to walk in a circle a few times, to avoid the deer, who did not seem to stop his fixation on her. Like being chased by a turtle, with no idea of its intentions. =================================================================== @Catpone Cerberus "Aaaah, inn residents, wanting to be locals, huh? Then you're probably one of those who outta look at the new section of town, and get yourself down for a home there. There's not a lot built there yet, but there's some working on it, when things aren't as hectic and crazy as they've been today. Some of them include businesses, though there's still plenty enough already in Ponyville. Depends on the sort of work you like that is. If you talk about medicine and other related topics, so maybe you're healers, or doctors? You'd need the proper certifications to be counted as a doctor, but there's room for healers too in town, and there's that independent doctor, that got into town a few weeks ago. She's pretty nice, though I feel like a little filly, next to her. Where was I... Oh right, if you want updated information on stuff, I'd say go to the library. Princess Twilight keeps adding more and more tomes, and I know some other med students have gone there to read. Seems as good a place as any to start, yeah? But you really should try and get a residence claimed first. I'm pretty much off work by now. If you can wait the last bit before it's done, I can go show you where to handle stuff. You know, the right part of town, how to handle the claim, the library, that sort. Though it's hard to mis the library. The castle doesn't really blend in with anything." Doctor Neon grinned at them. She didn't mind helping out, and it gave her something to do tonight. Not a good concert happening this night anyway, so she had plenty of time. And if these waned to be new residents, she had to show them that Ponyville welcoming spirit! It'd be fun. Except the library. It was dull. But that were libraries in a nutshell. They were done with the tail, so if they could just wait the last bit of the hour, or come back after, Neon would have all the time to help them get settled in, as best she could. Though they might wanna weapon themselves with patience too.

@Props Valroa (Spectra) "Were it that simple, it would be more tolerable. But I know who three of them are. The first is Captain Hailstorm. One of the more favored to take over as Solar Guard general now, after the last one that were meant to take over from General Dew, had his accident. He's highly efficient, but he is still a military pony. He is relatively predictable, in what he needs to prioritize. Those two however... Shade Stealer. The leader of the Night Guard's special forces. Him and his workers stalk through shadows, and can literally jump out of one of them, and kidnap you, or assassinate you where you stand, in complete silence. He's a ruthless enemy, and I've long imagined that the only reason he haven't yet stabbed me in the back, is that he cares as little for the nobles as I do. He answers only to General Screecher, and if she wants something done, he will make it happen. His counterpart is that fancy looking mare you see there. Glorious Phantasma. She is the leader of Solar Guard's special forces, and her looks are deceiving. Much as she portrays a far better public image than Shade, she is a far more cruel opponent to face. She's a master of hidden weapons, and enhanced interrogations. If she gets hold of you, it is not a matter of if you will talk, but when. Her team is renown3ed spies, and are good at getting stealthily hold of any target they are told to apprehend. She might listen to the captain, long as their goals align, but is ultimately only answers of General Dew and Princess Celestia. These two utterly despise one an other, so seeing them both on the same assignment, means that both the royal guards are interested in you. And this was before the explosion. At this time, you will have gotten infamous enough to getting the undivided attention of both of them, and thus the entire guard, that is not currently working on handling the aftermath of your actions. And that's not even talking about the Costal Guard spymaster, whom I am assuming are getting filled in as we speak. And I have nothing to say of that one, since I know next to nothing about them. Just the name Ocean Song. Which might just be a rumor spread by the Coastal Guard, to make others paranoid about what they can do. Either way, the longer we stay in Equestria, the closer you will be to get stabbed from your own shadow." Great. He thought maybe the military would be on them, and that perhaps they'd have mobilized their spies to work on them. But this meant that they had already been gathered for it beforehoof, and now they were there, and likely actively working to find them. Between the spy network that Phantasma had, and the skills of Shade and his crew, every second they spent in Equestria, had the potential of ending their trip abruptly. Normally he would not want to be anywhere near either of them, but now... Maybe he deserved it, after all the things he had been involved in by this point. The last few days had made him an accomplice to several war crimes, and unspeakable fates towards innocents. And while after his wife's supposed death, he had done several cruel and horrendous things, that he hadn't thought he could once upon a time, and gotten so broken that he actually began to believe that he liked doing it, he had always targeted those who deserved it. He couldn't in good faith say that anymore. Not after what he had become part of. He might not be able to just run off and surrender himself, but he were feeling an increasing hope, that the two of them would be found, before they crossed the border into Troy. Because when they got that far, it were unlikely that Equestria would come after them. The border situation were tense enough, without that sort of brazen invasion. The construct would look at her, but not act at first. Something that made Operata scoff. "I don't recall it getting a lesson in common tongue, so I doubt it understands you." He would annoyingly lift his front legs, and make the movement of a box with it a few times, until the construct appeared to understand what it were asked to do. So it would begin to project again, yet this time, being from a lower vantage point for the most part, as it showed what it considered the important part of its adventure since. It were not aware that it were meant to show everything. It started as the mountain exploded, giving them both a good view of the chaotic mess of energy hammering in there, with it sitting calmly in a bubble of see-through light, yet rocks and fire would still rain down upon it. Next scene would be it out of the fire, looking at the remains of the mountain. It were a wreck, with first responders showing up a little after that, mostly ignoring it as they tried to combat the flames. Then came the town it had visited, where it had been doing a sweep of the town, to try and find its overseer. It had not managed to find one, so it were short, just showing it a little in clips, before it left again. Afterwards, it were a return to the mountain. It were still burning, but the construct moved through it, unbothered by such things, and would eventually show off the large, marble-like statue made of Spectra, as she looked before, with a plate of unintelligible words adorning the base. Likely her designation. Next was another town, far larger in size, and it showed a few places, where it had carved symbols into buildings, scrap heaps, etc, as well as where it had found a dumpster of books. It had showed itself scanning those for a time, explaining how it would have learned some degree of the language, though it still needed to be able to tell what thing meant what in the first place. It were just a matter of observation at this time. It would end with it leaving Deltrot - a sign said so in one clip - and then going out here to build this. It did not show much of what were used for it, except for wood, stone, and other things it could find int he adjourning area. Primarily stone though, of which many had come from the bottom of the river. A long process, but it had kept it busy. It would end at the point when it would have seen the two of them approach, and then sit down, gathering its limbs up, and becoming immobile. Light would go on in the eyes, but one could imagine it were recharging in some capacity, and thus were limiting excess power, on things not required right now, such as mobility. ============================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) The trip to Gold Needle's were mostly uneventful. A fair few noticed and remembered her now, that she were looking properly like herself, minus a proper hair treatment, and a new dress. But as promised, the lawyer had made sure the two were waiting for her, and the second she opened the door, they'd lead her in, present her with the dress they had been informed were to her preferred tastes, and then Gold would start to properly manage her mane and tail, while Needle would sew the dress to fit perfectly, Once all were said and done, she could go and find that the lawyer had arranged for a carriage, as he believed it being more dignified and proper for her, than a mere cab. The two muscular stallions dragging it, ready to be on their way, wings spread, and looking towards the trek to Ponyville. This were not the cheapest way to travel, and especially not when it were a flying carriage, but it would be the most direct, luxurious ride there, to arrive in class. And it had already been prepaid, tip included, so they simply waited for them to enter, before they took off into the air. And as were custom with this kind of high end travel, it were smooth, to the point where one would hardly notice they were flying, if they did not poke their heads out of the window. No expenses were spared, in this kind of construction. Which the price tag also showed, but that were not her problem to handle right now. Several others were, as Jargon would open his saddlebag, and present a folder of various paperwork. "While we are flying, Madame Rich, a brief follow up on things. I have contacted Clayton, and presented him with the schematic, as well as your new specifications. He is currently ensuring the proper materials are sent towards the location, and booking workers. They should begin breaking ground at sunrise. His best estimate is that it will take three weeks, for it to be build completely. Not as fast as his main competition, but undoubtedly more robust, and of higher quality. I will make sure to contact him with three day intervals, to get a progress report, and will return with any relevant details." He'd handle her a copy of the signed contract to see and read, if she so wished to. "As for your legal status, you have been formally declared alive and well, and your finances will reflect that accordingly. You will receive some legal documents within three days, but I have had them redirected to my office, and will handle them, in my capacity as your lawyer. You may end up finding that there will come a call for a blood test within the next few days however. In your absence, a few members of your extended family, had eyed your legal status as deceased, a chance to gain part in your estate. I have compiled a list of most abhorrent to least, when it comes to the kind of things I have been contacted about, regarding you, in your absence. I will give them credit where it is due, that it is an almost unheard of minority of bad faith requests. Most have simply been questions about when the date would be, so that they could plan a proper funeral for the date, or a request for a memento after the funeral, to remember you by, chosen by your husband. As well as regular request for news, regarding anything about what happened to you. A few exceptions are of course present, from those who smelled money, but even then, I expected worse." He'd hand her a few pieces of paper, with excerpts from things said or written to her, by the family. Including a letter from her daughter, asking him when her mommy would come home again. That one had hurt him in the heart, as he had feared any news he would eventually give, would be grim, but now Spoiled were back, he could see it in a much more endearing light. One that he hoped that she would see it in too. Much as she might think her daughter a... Stuck up little lady at times, she had genuinely missed her mother. What interactions he had with both her, and her father, had made that abundantly clear. It would be good for them both to have her back. "I will also be preparing a slew of financial papers, to show you how your investments have paid of over the years. I will have them prepared with Clayton's update, in three days. Is there anything else I might be of help with, Madame Rich?" ====================================================================== (Treasure) Phantasma had held the sword, trying to examine the weight of it, and had reacted instinctively when the bolt of lightning came her way, dragging a beautifully crafted, thin curved sickle from inside her tail, and placed it where the tip of the electric bolt would hit, cutting it in half, to be shot at either side of her. A blade made of the same metal, that Fae had in her possession, gotten at no small cost. She'd ideally have gotten enough of the metal to make a proper blade, but this were all she had been able to get. In fact, it were several years worth of getting small samplings of the metal, just to make this one sickle. A long, tedious progress. On one side where the magic went though, stood Shade would go in to interrupt, as they had the painting there, and dragged it briefly into the shadows, before going over and pulling it out again. "Nasty little surprise that one. Somepony does not like others touching their stuff." "It would seem so. I didn't expect you to handle it that way though." "I suppose I could have used another trick, but I know you've heard of this one, and my first reaction were to make use of it regardless." "Must have taken practice to not cut off your own tail." "Trial, error, and hair grafts. Troubling, but worthwhile training. As I'm sure yours were too." "Yes, but my errors include not being corporeal for days on end. I could not recommend it." "What, your dark powers are not all upsides? Quite a shocker." "I've paid the pound of flesh, to be able to use them in the first place. I've learned to accept that, and what other things can happen, from using these powers beyond what I intended." "You claim you didn't take it for power?" "No, but the question is wrong. You should ask what was worth taking this upon myself for. But I will let you find that out yourself. We have things to do, and if you want to know so badly, I'm gonna make you work for it." "Hmphm. Can't simply make things easy now, can you?" "Why start now?" Acceptable enough, she supposed. Besides, it were more fun for her to figure it out herself, and not having to rely on just his word for things, which he probably also knew she'd find questionable. Better to let her go and question those in his home town, so she'd learn more, from other sources, that did not have a biased opinion on her, yes? Sounded accurate, but she expected to be told a story of predictable greed, and a feeling of wanting more than he deserved. A stale tale, but one that were ever present in stories for a reason, as that were often what led one to go and search for magic like this. As for the book, they'd see a bit more, but after a time of no more information, they would close the book, and look around at the other things, yet to be examined. "I would think more are boobytrapped. We need some other tools for the task." "I will have my team deliver them, from the North Point safe house. IN the meantime, we should go and confront Starswirl. He have some explaining to do." She'd concur, and would rendezvous with him soon enough, near Starswirl's current residence. Shade showed up first as per usual, though there had been a moment, before he slinked into the shadows. His wings spreading as Phantasma's did, and she took to the air, as if he were preparing to fly with her there. Then reality hit him, as the bony appendages, were not able to be used for flight, and he'd fold them in again, and go into the shadows. This power had cost him the skies, and so far, he hadn't figure out how to get him back up there. Not properly anyway. Sometimes, it really grinded his gears. As he stood out of the shadows, and became fully formed, he'd shake the last few thoughts on this subject, out of his head. He had to focus here, and wait for Phantasma, who had taken the book without giving him a chance to take it himself. He'd argue he could get it there faster, but she probably just assumed that if he had taken this alone, he'd end up handling things before she even showed up.

@EQ_Theta "Being willing to listen, is the first step towards being enlightened. If your elder looks for knowledge, and aren't afraid of new inputs, it leaves him able to listen, and embrace things that he could not, were he to simply leave his interests, at the leisure of your other elders. Still, their wisdom should not be ignored. It is yet important, as it will be the basis for how to lead your own kin. Even if it must evolve, for you to face the broader world around you. If he means to listen, and he remains steadfast in that, no matter the outcome of your meeting, perhaps the day will then come, when we can offer him some outsiders perspectives to ponder. I should find it fairly interesting." "Education as well, for both us, and him. You two are open-minded, but you are not in the position of leaders right now. His perspective on things, will be different than your own." It were hard to say if it ever did become a thing that would come to pass, of course. Sure they both had an interest in it, and as elders of their own, isolated towns, they could meet the society of the longma, and their elders, on more common ground, than a pony, or Discord could. They too appreciated the comfort and joy of tradition, even if they approached it differently than the longma, but it were one thing that one could hope would change for them, now that members of theirs, began to see and to an extend, embrace outside perspectives. That said, they did not go into this, with the aim of changing their whole culture. Zhao and Sohe had their ideas of how things could improve, and they would offer them freely, but it would in the end, be a choice for the longma to take. It were their home, and their culture, after all. What happened to it, and how it evolved, should be their decision, in the end. Elders such as Sohe and Zhao, would offer perspective, and suggestions. Guidance if there were questions even, but they were not invaders, nor zealots. They had no interest in removing what it meant to be longma. It would be hypocritical do ever do such a thing, when they would fight fiercely for their own culture and heritage. "He showed foals some of his carvings. I think they liked it. The bad one came after that. I do not think he wanted the other one to speak with Sen or Lin. Or maybe it was me, since he asked me questions? I do not know." "There will always be those, who oppose progress. What is important is as they say, that the woodworker were receptive to meeting others. The younger generation are often easier to convince of things maybe not being bad, simply because they are not part of what they are used to. Convincing the older generation will be challenging. But this is a hurdle you will face soon enough." The elders were but the first example of this. There were older, regular citizens, that were likely not as keen on changes either. It would go against everything they had known, and been taught were good. It wouldn't be easy to make them think that introducing a new way of handling things, would be a good way forward. Yet they would have to convince them too eventually, to proceed as smoothly as possible. Or wait for them to perish, but that would take quite a bit longer. Best to try and aim for convincing at least a reasonable portion of them. "She seems at sound mind, so I would think her okay to travel. Just be calm easy Lin, if you begin to wobble, or feel queasy. It is just an after effect that will pass, if it haven't already." The elders would rise up, to begin the trip towards the room, that they wished for them to visit. It wouldn't be far from here. Up one bridge, then a small walk for a few minutes more, with nature blooming around them, and spirits yet looking at them curiously. Nothing as large as River, nor any as bold, but they did definitely bite notice in the strange visitors. It wasn't normal for non-kitsune to visit town. Much less be wandering with the elders. It were something that drew the attention of many of these curious little nature spirits, up until they finally stood at the door Sohe wanted them to be at. A fairly sized door, seemingly made out of wood, with various flowers and vegetation growing over it, to the point where you couldn't simply open it up. Sohe however, would wander closer, and put her paw on the door. Slowly, the vegetation began to move, revealing that there were in fact, not a door. The whole entrance were just overgrown with thick vegetation, that you would have to either have move, or chop through. The latter being an option that would definitely not endear you to the spirits, nor the elders. It would be seen as incredibly rude, as this were a room were one were meant to ask permission to enter, as it were a sacred spot for spirits and kitsune alike. "If you would please, come on in." The room were modest in appearance. The inside of a globe in construction, the various vegetation lining the walls would make it somewhat uneven, but there were still a sense of harmony in the way things were set up, if they bit notice in it. The flowers, vines, moss, etc. had a natural harmony to them, that made them be set just as they should be, in the eyes of the spirits that flowed around the walls. In the middle, would be a clear spot. Roots would go to the edge of it, but the circle, around a meter in diameter, were simple planks of wood, inscribed in a myriad of tiny symbols. The water flowed freely through this place, pouring in a stream through the top, and exiting down the bottom, yet on this middle piece, it would not touch. Rather the water would flow to the sides, as if over an invisible globe, and gathering below the platform again, in one, steady stream. It would almost seem as if a small igloo were present on the middle platform, made out of naught but air. There were sometimes a pillow on the seating platform too, but it were sometimes tossed around by the spirits for fun, though as they saw Elder Sohe had arrived, a few clear spirits with sprouts on their heads, would dive into a nearby plant, and seemingly possesses the vine to grab the pillow, and gently put it in place. The elder would bow her neck before the vine in kind, before it retracted. "I thank you, friends. Yet today it is not I, who come to listen. I bring guests, whom I hoped you might speak to, and see if they can hear?" She seemed to listen for something, and after a half minute or so, would smile a little wider, and bow her head once more. "Your willingness, is much appreciated. We shall see if it bears fruit." Only then, would she turn towards the others, whilst behind her, fluttering spirits would begin to pop their heads out, curiously watching the newcomers, that were to be tested. "I would ask you all to try, yet one at a time, please. Sen first, then Lin. Omen, I hope you will be willing to try too? I am somewhat curious, what they will think about you." "Okay." "Thank you. Now Sen, if you would please? Just sit in the middle, close your eyes, and focus your ears on listening. If you can hear a voice speaking to you, be not afraid of it. Try and listen, and when the waters part again, tell me if you heard something." He would get three minutes to listen, after starting. And once he were in position, the water would close around the globe. If he could hear the voices, one or more would end up being heard by him, over the sound of rushing water. How many voices were discernable, would be important. "Uuuh, this one has scales." "I bet he can't hear a thing." "I like your tail." "Never seen someone like you before." "Sohe likes him. Let's be nice." "Awh, but it would be so fun to poke him." Just because this were a sacred place, where one could attune with the spirits, if you had the gift, did not mean the spirits were overly serious about things. Often, the more playful would come out to do these tests, where the more serious were waiting to see if it were worth their time first. If Sen could hear any of the voices, he could respond to it, or them. If not, it would just sound like water, insects buzzing, wind blowing softly through, and rustling of leaves. Things such as that. ============================================================== @Lawyer Slip "Oooh, so one of those who wanna break the world, huh? I can't imagine most draconequui, likes that sorta member, but there's bad seeds in ever race, right? Just sometimes, those bad seeds can destroy the world. A bit spooky, but the world still seems to be here, so... No need to worry about it right now, heh. A shame he'd try and kill if he got a hug. He really sounds like he needs some friends. And a lesson in why it's wrong to hate others, just because they're not like you. Hopefully somepony will give him that someday. Like Gluttony had. That's what I were told anyway, that she were helped by a pony, and then she helped Gluttony and Avarice to be better too. That's why Gluttony is in that enormous landfill. An endless feast of things to eat, and she gobbles all sorts in her. It really helps keeping Equestria cleaner. But enough about ornery sorts, and massive maws. Let's go meet your friend!" Sounded like a gnarly, dangerous one, that Cataclysmor fellow. Best to avoid him, if she heard he were anywhere, and let stronger beings handle that. She still had way too many things to hug in this world, to be killed by a big ol' grump. Ziggy clasped her front hooves on both sides of her face, which had a huge, open-mouth smile on it, with eyes nearly glittering in pure joy. ""*gasp* Look at how tiny he is! Oh my Celestia, he's adorable!" Maybe not the smartest first words, but she were used to thinking alicorns were some of the few ponies, going over her head. This one were Twilight sized, more or less. "Hello, Rich! I'm Ziggy. I met your friend out here in town, and then he said he had an alicorn friend, and I just had to see, and there you are! I kept hearing all male alicorns were feral, but you're not! Obviously, duh. But like, you're not one of those who get hit by the random *BAM!* then alicorn, and go coo coo. And you're Twilight sized! That's so cute. Are you the same age as her? Or is it like, how long you have been an alicorn that matters?" In her happy words, spoken with the enthusiasm of a sugar addict, at the top of their high, she would be touching on the phenomenon that caused what were dubbed "Feral Alicorns" in Equestria. Nopony knew why it happened, but sometimes, it seemed just randomly, a pony would be struck by strange magic, and undergo alicornification. The ordeal were taxing both mentally and physically, so most who had it happen to them, went mad in the process, and had to be... Well, put down, cruel as it sounded. Since alicorns done the proper way, were usually just females, it added the tale that male alicorns were just not meant to be. Something about them meant they just couldn't handle it, though more professional ones, didn't participate in the gossip version, as they knew the random, unfiltered process could hit mares too. It were an odd phenomenon, that didn't have a source, or origin. It only happened in Equestria, according to reports, and it were impossible to track, since as soon as one had been through it, there were nothing to trace in the area, and there didn't seem to be anything happening there afterwards either. It were as if the country just sometimes *burped* special magic out, and sometimes, an unfortunate soul got caught in it. This one seemed sane though, so he might have bucked the trend, or been alicornified the right way. You'd think the princess would have announced that though. *gasp* Unless he were not Equestrian? He might come from somewhere else, like Saddle Arabia. They had their princess too! And princess Arabian Nights were supposedly extremely beautiful. Ziggy hoped to see some day, and figure out if the stories were true. "Oh! And uh... Water, please. Sorry for being hyper, but I have a ton of energy, and this is the sort of exciting thing that just makes me all psyched up! But... Ngggh.... No, not... Must. Hug.... But not in the... Kitchen..." She strained against herself, as her instincts were now telling her to rush in and hug, but since he stood over a stove, her logic said no. A logic reinforced by her mother, using her stern voice, so she knew that it were serious. SHe might need a couple of minutes here to just... Get this through her system.

@Props Valroa (Spectra) The construct were unmoving, as Spectra began to try and figure out how to do this properly, but when she were done, the code were accepted. The lights on its own faceplate would light along with every press of a button she made, and when it were done, all would flash twice, and the construct would stop projecting the light panel, and close its hand up again. Her authority had been accepted, and it would thus get on the boat with them. Operata kept as much distance between it and him though, as were possible. Which weren't he hardest, as the construct would go to the front of the boat, and faced his supervisor. As he had now located her, or whomever had been deemed right to replace her, it were time for it to deliver its report of what had happened in the mountain. It's chest plate would fold in, in a few, rectangular sections, and from them, would emanate light, that would give a holographic, three-dimensional *video*, of what had happened, from the moment when Magloria's shell were crackling, to when the various guards were wandering through, and of course, the explosion itself, and the fiery aftermath. It had not included when it had been the one to start Magloria escaping, as it were not something it deemed relevant information. Everything that had happened, that had triggered its alarm system, happened from after that. The picture were still limited to the room of crystals, where it had hung on the wall, and looked over things. So everything that had happened outside of that room, wouldn't be recorded. Which included Shade taking his cats, as they had run around in a panic, as everything began to unravel around them. If his wife had been in the same room as Magloria though, he would be able to tell that she had been taken however, and were in fact no longer in the possession of Spectra, but rather some other power. One he knew, as Shade were all too known by him. It had been a big base though. She were likely in some other part of the mountain, so she should still be able to twist this to fit her narrative. ============================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) "I still have the blueprints in the folder. The assurance company required the original, but I have both it, and a copy at this point. I will ensure the original, stays with me, and that only Clayton gains access to the copy." He would scribble down the other details. He believed he had heard of something for the bunkers provisions, that would be helpful, but he would discuss the details with Clayton. best not to give false expectations. It were hardly fitting for him to give falsehoods to his employer. The route to the spa were thankfully as mentioned, rather quick, and still clean. So they would get to the entrance of the extravagant building soon. Not the cheapest spa in town by far, but it were also not meant for just anypony. It were meant for high society, to be pampered within, and soon she would be feeling that once again. Discreetly entering, Jargon would go to the register, and pay the notable amount for a full treatment. The one at the register were well mannered and dressed immaculately, but he were also young and new. He didn't know about Spoiled, and would just assume this were her lawyer paying on her behalf, because she didn't deign it worth her time to do so. They had a few who used their assistants in much the same way, so it weren't too notable to him. Some of the workers would remember her though, and would be surprised, but welcomed her back all the same. After she were done, she'd find that her lawyer were not there, as he were still arranging things, but the Gold Needle Boutique would stand ready for her arrival, not too far from here. It were time for her to be properly dressed and having her mane and tail done properly, before returning home to what would be a very surprised family. ====================================================================== (Treasure) Phantasma would go and unlock the book fairly easily. Wasn't the first time she had to pick a lock, nor would it be the last. And this one were laughably easy. Old and not up tot he task. Though if had a magical protection... She'd still open it up, she just had to pull a few different extra tools out from her tail. Before she got a chance to open it though, Shade would put his hoof down on the book. To say she were dismayed by the action, were an understatement, as she wanted to know what they had to work with here. "Why do you try and ruin my fun?" "It's one of Starswirl's. How much do you trust a lock, is the only defense it has?" Her expression would stiffen, and she'd regrettably have to accept that he were right. This book belonged to one of the greatest unicorns in their country's history. He may well have put a magical trap on it too, just to keep others out of his private business. So they would stand at a distance, whilst Shade used his magic to open the book. Tendrils of dark magic, floating off of his bony wings, to grab hold of the book, and reveal what were inside. If a trap would spring, they'd be ready. If not, they would eventually get closer, after flapping through some pages, which would soon after reveal the note. One that grabbed their attention, as they read it through several times. "Tangible proof. How... Easy." "Yes, it shouldn't be taken at face value. However, it is something tangible, in that we can approach the wizard himself about it. It is a lead, if nothing else." Phantasma would put the note in an evidence bag, and stuff that into her uniform. They were going to want to be sure that this were close at hoof. The same with this book, but they both didn't even need to speak to one another, to know that they both wanted to read a little more, to see if there were more clues to work from. There were a reasonable chance that Starswirl might just take the book, and tell them nothing, if they presented it to him. It were prudent as investigators in their own right, for them to examine this evidence closer. Though Starswirl would be involved sooner or later. They would need his account of things here, to figure out if perhaps, they had actually found Spectra. Might not be her real name still if it were, but if she went to Starswirl, and struggled with her skills, they may well have found what set her on her path, and a rough estimate of when she began her grizzly business.

@Illiad Easle Just for the record, I have zero idea how to go though an actual therapy session. So uh... If it comes down to that, I probably need to be more of a descriptive figure, rather than one asking direct questions. I'd probably mess something up horrendously otherwise.

@Illiad Easle "I'm fine, just... A few bruises. It'll ache later, but I've had worse. Ardee's outta see someone first, after she's had some rest." She could feel it aching some already, but it wasn't something she hadn't tried before. Unless it started to bleed, or the pain would increase, she'd be fine. She just needed to take it easy for a bit, if that were at all possible. This line of work, who could tell how it would go? Honestly, the thought of just laying down on the floor for a bit, and breathe in silence, were rather tempting. Just a chance to clear her head, and get everything straight. But much as that seemed tempting, there were something else that were far more tempting than that. Beyond the want to have the Vengeance powers turned off again, but she would've asked Nine to do so on the way back, so that shouldn't currently be an issue. "Don't blame yourself, Arcade. If anyone's to blame here, it's me. The stuff I did when I went alone, it wasn't dangerous, and we were a big group, so no one tried something. But I left you behind, because I was scared that either of you were gonna get into this mess, but not out of it again. If I hadn't, maybe she wouldn't have been taken in the first place. You wouldn't have gotten killed on that rooftop... This here's my fault, because I didn't trust her. And don't say that ain't true, because it is. I didn't believe that if the fight came, she'd be ready for it. I were sure she'd be the sitting duck, just waiting to be shot down. Instead she came in, guns blazing, and showed teeth. Even though Basher held back, that doesn't change that she wouldn't have just been picked off. But I didn't give her a chance to prove that, before I just tossed her in a box, and told her to stay there. I just... Void trusted me to take good care of her this trip. Instead I tried too hard, and I almost f-failed her, and all of you. If she'd died, because of me, I... H-How could I even look her in the eyes anymore? Or y-you..." It all just hit her at once, and she'd lean in to him, crying into his chest fluff. She were happy, that they all got out of this alive, but she had put a lot of fear, pain, and other negative emotions in the back of her mind, when she put the focus on finding her Ardee again. She got a small respite earlier, because of Arcade, but it hadn't stopped boiling up back there, including when Ardee had shown up, and started to fight Basher. And now everything seemed calm and done, the barrier were falling down, and she needed to let it out. Even if it was just a little. Just a few minutes, where it were just him and her, before the next ordeal would toss them to the waves. =============================================================================== (School) Cherish hadn't anything to mention about this, as she knew a little bit more on how her mother's clinic worked, seeing as she lived there, and had been through several sessions herself. But with Sooth here, she would have the chance to do something else, before the day would be done. That being that she'd ask Sooth if maybe she could go to the Cutie Mark Party, if it was okay with the others. Sooth personally, hadn't anything against it, but did say that she would have to ask Void, and that Cherish herself would have to ask Toupé, of course. Which she did. If Toupé preferred not to, that would be okay. They were still new classmates, so Cherish could understand, and just wished her a happy Cutie Mark Party. If it were okay, Sooth would say that she'd go and ask Void about it, before school ended for today, so she should better go and ask. If it came to that, Void would be surprised for a start, to see her therapist. But when explained things, would understand, and welcomed Cherish, if she liked to join. Void figured it were good for them all to make friends. That would of course, also be an option for Lilac and Nova. She'd have to find some more plates and such in the closet, but there were food enough, she made sure of that, and she could easily make room around the table. As for how things were set up at home? It were extravagant. Balloons covered a fair few surfaces. Various, mixed culture party accessories were hung or put around, as it were hard to have enough, without being willing to take what one could find. The table were covered in a large cloth, but it were clear that something were beneath the lumpy tablecloth, as were there beneath a cloth, that were hanging and covering something in the middle of a spacious wall, with the best view when you entered the living room. Colors and flags were in abundance, wherever you looked, and once shed notice they were here, Void would pop around the corner, wearing a party hat, and using a small party horn. It had seen better days, but it were the best she had to work with, though Lacuna would repeat the sound it made, as best he could too, as he thought this were some new kind of greeting. She didn't mind. It would distract him away from trying to wander off and eat tinsel. Which at least he had been interested in trying. If the foals had been the same, she had three to try and stop from doing that, which would not have made things easier, but she would muscle through it, as best she could.

@EQ_Theta "With all respect I believe they deserve, your elders sounds arrogant and paranoid. Seeing someone stepping up to take a leader role, when one were needed, should be celebrated. It should not be viewed as one who might threaten their power. To me, that is not the views of a just leader, but one worried that a new one has risen, that were not vetted to think as them. Still, I could be wrong, and they are simply overly cautious, because they fear he is too inexperienced to lead. Were I to offer a suggestion, I would tell Elder Ghilan that he might want to question that if they think he lacks experience, why then not offer him their wisdom. He already holds the mantle of a leader. If knowledge is what he lacks, then that can be offered to him. That is what we do, when one of our younger ones have needed to step up, and lead. Encouraging one who knows that they must be there for their kin, and granting them the wisdom and support to do so, will make for a memorable leader."" "I would concur that, Elder Sohe, but I would strongly advice too, that those words be said by Ghilan himself, and not you. He must show initiative, humility, and respect, if he is to be taken serious by them. Having others speak for him, would make him seem unable to handle even the most basic of leadership tasks on his own. Still, they might not be willing to offer him guidance. If that occurs, consider your options. An outsiders perspective, might do him good." She did not directly state that they might be willing to offer him some guidance, but it were implied, and intended. They might not stand over the same kind of people, yet they were leaders all the same, with some tangible common-ground. There were likely things that they could teach him, if others did not. Even if they had to go and see him, which should not pose a great threat, if it came to that. Kitsune were masters of illusions. A race not partaking in magic, would be hard pressed to see through the deception. "As an elder, it is my duty and joy, to inform and teach those who seeks knowledge. I hope that things will proceed well for you, and that you understand caution. They might be willing to listen in time. In some ways, I can imagine they might already, if they allow Omen to wander their town. But try not to push too much at them at once. Yet stand ready if danger comes, to make use of all that you have. It is a balancing act to thread, yet I wish you good tides, as you do so." "Hmm, speaking of Omen, you are allowed to walk around their town, yes?" "I am. They say I helped with something, but I do not remember. Bad one attacked my friends though, and wanted me to tell him things. I have been told by Master Discord, not to lie, but I do not have to answer." "I would agree with that, yes. It is simply that if they allow you, perhaps you can be used not just as an example that outsiders can be helpful, but perhaps also as the link to the outside. Use her to cautiously make connections, or bring them something of the outside to inspect and evaluate. Do not bring them something uninvited. Unless it is custom to bring a gift to your elders, when approaching them, I believe it might be unwise." That would come down to the knowledge that Sen and Lin had. Omen could well take a gift with her. Something that would show respect towards the elders, but she shouldn't do so, if it weren't needed. It might be seen as condescending, or as if she were just trying to win them over with shiny things. Not an ideal situation. As for her usefulness in acting as a good example, of the outside world, it would depend on how the meeting went. The larger pool of elders would have to accept her presence, for her to be of use, but it could become critical. They best have trained her before the meeting, in how to behave herself, lest she'd cause some rather serious harm to their prospect of broadening the longma's horizons. "I assure you that it is perfectly legible. I save the big words for my intermediate classes." The fox would return soon after, it's long tail wrapped around a scroll the length of Sen's arm. It were closed with a silk ribbon, and the paper seemed wrapped around polished bone. Though if they looked closely, they would see it were wood. There were some pale variants in the area, that they liked to use for this sort, as it were long lasting, and did not damage the paper. The fox would run over to the elder, who'd nuzzle it a little behind the ear, before it dissipated, and she handed the scroll over to Sen. "This should be of some help, I would hope. If you get through it, and believe yourself ready, you can return and receive one for more advanced techniques. The sort that are often used, to teach dream walking, or wandering in minds. Now before you leave, Elder Sohe wished to see if perhaps either of you, had it in you to listen to the voice of the elements. Have you a little more time to spare, before you must depart? It shall take no more than ten minutes, I would think." They likely still had plenty of time. It were still over a day (OOC: far as I remember) until the meting with the elders, yet the night would not be completely peaceful. When the sun set in Equestria, it would be time for the golems to be inhabited, which they had been invited to attend. And who knew? Perhaps the voices of old, could provide some guidance of their own. They might even know of their progenitors, if they were told what information they did have now. ============================================================== @Lawyer Slip Ziggy would get closer, and boop him on his forehead with the tip of her right wing, and pull her tongue slightly at him, in a silly manner.. "Easy there, friend. I am not gonna judge you. Especially not for meeting a draconequui. This town has one, with Discord. And then there's the new one in the forest. I haven't met her yet, but I hear she likes to play games. Then there's Fright, whom I heard got through town recently. Of course when I wasn't here, which is a shame. I heard she were scary looking, but very nice. And I met Gluttony once. The instructor said that it was part of his medical training too, to see what happened with all the medical waste. I got to see her eat an actual ton of stuff, along with some barrels of toxic waste, and a large, bent piece of railing. You wouldn't believe the sort of things she can just chomp down, nor how fast. It was kinda hard to look away from honestly. Don't you worry about having a draconequui friend here, if that's what you wanted to say. Discord's seen as good, and he's one of the really important, big ones. Your friend's probably okay here too. I'll give them a hug if I see them, just to prove it, hehe. And Fah'lina's kin is... How was it written down again... Right, Discordian Knight Squirrels, were some of the animals that got changed back when Discord ruled Equestria. Then they bred and multiplied a lot, and when Discord was gone, they were some of the only creatures with too much chaos in them, to get back to normal. Too many generations of it being ingrained and stuff, though they did lose some things, the book said. Then they lived near where Canterlot were, and then one day, they were just gone, and nopony saw them since. Dunno where they went, but seems like some of them are around now. Like I said, you'll meet her later. She'll be back for snacks sooner or later. But I have time now, so sure! We can go see your friend, hehe. Does he likes hugs? Actually, don't answer that. It'll be a surprise." She were getting hyped up, and ready for action. So soon as her new friend here were ready to go, she'd be wandering right next to him, tapping along in sheer joy, and humming a little tune. Really looked as if she hadn't a care in this world. ============================================================ @Catpone Cerberus She couldn't help but being slightly disappointed in what she were told. She had hoped that there would be more concrete things to work with, that furthermore were not war related, but alas, it seemed that hope were for naught. Still, the data might still prove to hold some sort of information, that could be of assistance to her. "I would be lying if I said I hadn't hoped for another answer, but there might still be data that would be helpful to my research. I will be more than happy to let you see why I am looking for such information later, but to borrow your reasoning, this isn't the place for it. And my condolences for your world being - for the lack of a better term - torn asunder. I do not think it sounds like a peaceful place, yet losing your whole world still seem substantially horrendous." Magma would finish what she had ordered before, and pulled out some bits from her box to cover the cost. She were not a thief, and would pay what she got. Besides, what she had ordered were not expensive. It weren't as if she had gotten a large meal. That would be pointless for her, at this current point in time. "Perhaps we have something to gain from accompanying one another for a time? Among other things, I know the codes to unlock the research at Center Zero. Even retrieved, there should be a backup stashed in the Metaphysical Laboratory. My former boss showed it to me, as part of the protocols set in place, if an emergency happened. There'd be a copy both there, and at the Boom Workshop. The latter is easier to get, so I can imagine the survivor took that one. Doubly so if it is a Boom that survived. They are surprisingly tenacious, like cockroaches." It sounded as if there were more that they could discuss, but she got the feeling that he were signaling too, that they best take this elsewhere. Both to talk more technical terms, and to get on with other things. Who knew? Perhaps she could be of some assistance. He might come from a Equestria, but if it were not this one, the chances were slim that he knew how everything worked. That were something that she did have the power to assist with. As well as the time. ======================================================== @Catpone Cerberus The deer would not answer, but instead look at the door that had been sealed. If she looked back, she'd find that the darkness covering it, would begin to vanish. The smoke seemingly getting sucked out from behind, or dragged off in a vacuum of sorts. The leader and the priestess alike, began moving backwards as they saw this, and the latter would poke her staff into a stone slab they would eventually stand on, that would slowly start to rise into the air, with them on it. A magical elevator, as it were. Before they were far up though, the door would open, and the deer she had run into outside, would go inside, and look up towards them. Something that made the mummified, less alive looking leader of these undead, point towards him. "That is it." They would soon enough be out of sight proper, and at a higher point in the temple, leaving the two of them with this undead, that would look at them both with curious, darkened eyes. "Hey, I remember that one. He were out at the door. That's the one that got loose?" He didn't seem impressive, but... Apparently this were the one they had to lead into the basement? Pretty weird, but alright. They could likely do that. "Urgh, freaking stomach pain... I hate curses." She'd stagger forth a bit, grinding her teeth. She had been giving a nasty curse here, and she could tell it. Something they'd been told had a kill switch. Literally. If they tried to leave, without this one getting trapped in, they'd be royally boned. Again, quite literally. It sounded like they'd be de-fleshed. "Alright you, you wanna rumble, or are we gonna get you to downtown without any fuss?" The deer looked at her, and tilted its head at her. He didn't seem to know what she meant. "...Can you even understand me?" The deer would slowly nod, whilst a sound would come from further behind, from down the hallways. Sounded like something had broken. Perhaps a piece of the ceiling had fallen down, considering the loud noise. "Okay. Let's try again: Do you want to go to the basement?" This time, the deer would shake. It did not seem to be what he had in mind. "Why can't things ever be easy, y'know? Are you okay, Ruby? I swear, we'll get out of this. Just have to sorta... Come up with a plan. Have to get this one down, to get the curse out of us." The deer would now turn towards Ruby, looking at her. Then he'd take slow steps in her direction, looking like he wanted to do something, since his already slit pupils, seemed to narrow further. A sign he were focusing on her, for some unknown reason. Y'know, in case him trying to walk to her, weren't enough of a sign. ===================================================================== @Catpone Cerberus The doctor would hum a song as she inspected the tail proper. Something that seemed to have some heavy base, and beat, as she were also tapping with her right back leg. "Looks just about perfect, miss. Clean as a whistle, and no scratches. This shouldn't take more than a few moments then." She'd swivel around, and pull a small box, and a tube out of a nearby drawer. Opening the box, would reveal the prosthetic. Soft, sterile interior, made to fit with a rubbery construction, for when it were to be put on. And the color would almost match the rest of her tail. She had done hers to get it through what color, but it had gone off by a few shades. Wasn't massive, but if you were looking, you'd see the difference. Beyond that, it would look as if it were simply part of her regular tail. That were the point of a good prosthetic after all. She'd ask Sheska to sit still, then use the tube of gel to apply a little to her tail, while she carefully put the tip on her tail. It would slip on when she were done, and stay there, with the gel underneath helping to have it set there, and keep it clean, just in case a speck of dust or something had snuck in. "There we go. As good as new. Kinda. I know the color is a bit off, but they missed it by a teensy bit. Anyway, it shouldn't come off with any ease, but if it does, or you feel something slide under there, just clean it, and then reapply this gel. It helps keep it clean from any airborne stuff that might try and sneak in otherwise." She'd hand the tube to Sheska, with a warm smile on her face. "If you run out, it is in every pharmacy I know of at least, and it isn't overly expensive. Still, I think this should last you for a fair bit of time. So, with that sorted- What's your plans now? You're new in town, right? Are you in the tent city, that got set up after the buildings got damaged from the big attack? Or are you in that new section of town, like the silver-maned twins? Ooor I guess you could just be going through town, and stick at the inn, until you wander off in a few days. It's alright that I ask, right? I don't wanna be noisy, I'm just curious." Curious and a teensy bit bored, but they didn't need to hear that last part. It did fine being in her own head. =============================================================== @Evil Pink One "Just make sure to take care of yourself. Your marefriend got very sad the last time, and I'm sure she'd prefer it be a rarity, rather than a regular occurrence. Now then, Lieutenant Foxglove? Might we have some words in private?" The guard were baffled by the sudden request by the rather famous doctor, but she'd nod after a few seconds, and pushed her glasses further up her face again. "Me? I... O-Off course, Doctor Toxina. It would be my honor." The two of them would do their own bows, and then begin to depart. Though they would manage to overhear Shark's comment about the classes, which did at least make the older doctor smirk a little. "Claaaaa-sss. Class... Big class is fish? Are mate taking Shark to good hunt lake?" She were confusing it with him speaking of a high class fish right now, which did sound tasty. Even though she had the words for several things in her mind, and knew what they meant, it wasn't everything that were in there, or explained very well. Class might as well mean weight class, or as she had thought, a higher class of fishy than she were used to. It wasn't needed though. Any fishy, were a good fishy to eat. Oh well, it didn't matter, right? He had some idea what they should do, and he were safe and happy again, so she were thrilled. Him being okay, were all she had ever hoped for, so now things could get nice again. Hopefully no more bad things would come into town, trying to hurt her mate. FOr now, she'd go and nuzzle the sides of his face, until he were ready to leave. When he were, she'd follow, oblivious as to what they were actually about to do: Actual schoolwork.

@Props Valroa (Spectra) The construct heard them, and moved its head to look at them in better details. The diodes on its face plate, blinking as always, in codes that were alien for them to understand. It kept writing though, until it were done. And when the last scribble had been done, everything written the whole tablet, would start to faintly glow, though nothing more seemed to happen than that. It would then jump down to them. Or well, rather slide down the side of the arc of the construction it had made, and then jumped from the edge of the shore, unto the boat. It would recognize Operata, and he it, as his face scowled even further, seeing this disgusting thing again, mocking him with its mere existence. It turned towards Spectra though, in her new form, and raised it's hand again. The hand itself would split cleanly down the middle, and a thing line of lights would shoot out, and scan her from top to bottom, in a series of waves between the lines. She wouldn't even feel it. Nor would Operata when it did it to him, even though he nearly growled at the thing, and tried to move away, out of its reach. It did not work, and he'd be scanned all the same. At the end, the beams would retract, and it would instead change the lights, to show a perfect square surface, with small buttons on it, that matched its faceplate. Some writing or other would be above it, but it were illegible for them, as it stood and waited. "Hmph. Should smash this thing with a hammer and chisel, not indulge it in whatever this is. Some sort of authentication I'd assume." It would in fact be that. If she recalled, the construct had made a series of various lights at her when she had first set herself, as being its new supervisor. Something that ended with it then blinking all the diodes. That would be her registration code. It were not sure if this were its supervisor, as she were not looking like the one he recalled, but she stood and acted like the last, and this one were following her too. It also found some trace amounts of particles and other things that were found on and near Spectra, where she had taken it before, that would indicate her presence around that area. It could not tell for sure though, if this were its supervisor. Perhaps she had been replaced, or repurposed, and given a new shape, due to the former one being lacking. If it were her, she would know her authentication code though, and it would return under service. She had two tries to hit it correct. If she'd touch the light-based display, she'd find that it would interact with her touch, and have some mass to it, so she would be able to push the buttons, though she best try and do it right. No telling what would happen, if she failed to do it properly. ============================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) He would not respond, but just nod and write down notes on this. There were a time to write, and a time to talk. Sometimes both. yet right now, it were just for him to listen, write down in details what he had been said, so that he could pass it along properly, and then let her speak of everything she wanted to be done. If he spoke, he might miss something, and have her needing to repeat herself. It had been some years, but he very distinctively did not associate Spoiled Rich in his memories, as a mare who cared for repetition with her orders. Those she spoke to, ought to have listened the first time. He could be misremembering of course, but he felt fairly certain of this. If not, he were sure his memories on how things worked, would be refreshed soon enough, as he went through the ropes, and readied himself to be at active work for her again. "I may have misspoken. I merely meant that the situation with Goldie and her killer, were hard on the family, when it became known that a fraud were at play. Paranoia on such things have been present since, when it comes to high society ponies being gone for some time, just to return later. Hence why I think it best that before rumors begins spreading, and skepticism begins flourishing with your family, that we get there, so you can be the first to address them. My role at the scene, will be to verify whom you are, of course. Just so that everything goes smoothly. As for changelings, I will see what I can do about Clayton perhaps being able to handle a sensor of sorts, build in for your properties. I will return with information on that, soon as it becomes available." The news that changelings were now openly welcome in Equestria, along with several other races, might be best to save for a later time. It were among the less good news, that they would need to deal with eventually, that he did not want to spoil her mood further with, at the present time. He'd write down the last details, and then close the book. He'd need it with him, along with a few other things that he would place in his designer saddlebag for the trip. Though before she would attempt to leave the room, he would clear his throat to get her attention. "Madame Rich, might I offer a brush?" He tended to keep a few things ready, in case he had to look his best after a long day too, or his hair got frizzled in strong wind. So he kept a regiment of things. including a comb, which were so immaculately clean, that it might as well be new. A high end one too, that would glide through her frizzled mane well and good, and get it somewhat in control before they'd leave. If required, he could brush it himself, but he would offer it forth, as he assumed she would prefer to do so herself. When it were over - or in case she cared not to do this - he would nod and head towards the door. "The most direct route to the Dreamy Clouds spa, will be to take a small side street a few meters from here, and take a hard left. It should also leave less eyes to notice you for that time, Madame Rich. After we get there, I will go and make sure that the paperwork is done, as well as getting transportation for Ponyville prepared, and informing Gold and Needle that their schedule will be occupied shortly. They will be expecting you when your spa treatment is over, I assure you. I will make sure everything is paid for in advance as well, with the usual account." With that, if there were nothing else, he'd lead her out, and down the next-fastest, inconspicuous route. The fastest involved an alley with trash cans, and he wouldn't hear the end of it for a while, if he dared to suggest she'd lower herself to travel such a path. ====================================================================== (Treasure) With the painting being mostly just old, and historically valuable for now, they'd set it carefully aside, and go look at some other things. Phantasma drawn to the coins, with Shade heading towards a book that seemed to hold a tinge of familiarity to itself. He wouldn't try to open it though, but examine the outsides first, trying to see what he had to deal with here. Phantasma would soon after have separated all the coins she had found, into each their own sections, and sorted them after the approximate age. Though some were odd to her, and were stacked separately. "Now this is peculiar, but might give us a timeline. Some of these denominations are beyond ancient. This draconic coin for instance, I've only ever seen pictures of. They don't even have a real one for display in the museum, as the few found are so heavily guarded. This one coin, could well end up buying you a home on its own. The Dragon Isles hasn't used a coin like this for millennia. It could be a replica, or something she stole from a hoard. If not, she could be upwards of three thousand years old at the least." These sorts of coins, were mostly only found in the hoard of elder dragons, or hoards that had been passed down. A very few individuals, had managed to steal or bargain for one, over the millennia, but it were not many, as the dragons tended to see their old currency as a status symbol of sorts to posses. Something from before the then dragon lord, had discontinued the coin making, since he figured it were smarter to just accept that gold were gold, and then use weight and purity instead of some marking, that wouldn't matter outside of their isles anyway. Most places went with some variation of gold, from the sand dollars of Troy, to the bits of Equestria, or the dinars of Saddle Arabia, so for those who did want to go out ad buy things, they could just bring gold. "Hmm, she might have raided a collection, and if this coin is as rare as you say, I assume some of these others are of some rarity too. Might be that there'd be a record of some sort, if a collection that size had been reported stolen in Equestria's history." They might need to ask around the more unsavory types, off the books of course, but a coin this rare, might have a trace in history that they could follow. Even if it were just a rumor of some fool stealing from an elder dragon once, that would still be something to work from. "What are you working on? A book in gold. Anything out of the ordinary about it?" "Yes. You are more knowledgeable about history, but I feel fairly certain that this marking, is Starswirl's, is it not?" Phantasma would curiously go over, and look at what Shade would point to. She needed little more than a glance, to know what she were looking at. "Yes indeed, that there is his symbol alright. If this is one of his books, that would be good news though. We have one that we can actively question about this." "Yes, though if this is a spellbook, I wonder what she might have learned from it. We should question the old wizard to be sure, lest we end up getting surprised by something." Their focus would be on this for now, but once that were set aside, they'd go and check out the sword. It seemed to stand out, though they were both pondering in what way. Phantasma would get it eventually, but she would need to wrack her brain for a bit.

@EQ_Theta Sohe smiled at the response, and chuckled weakly before responding. Zhao kept quiet in the meantime, waiting for Sohe to respond. As should be obvious by now, the kitsune valued the words of their elders tremendously, and Sohe were older than Zhao. Even if they both held the same role in their society, she saw Sohe in the light of one whom she should follow, and respect, and had done so since before she became an elder herself. That sort of admiration did not go away, just because she were an elder herself. Sure they had their disagreements and arguments, but the little things were where you could see the unspoken hierarchy. Such as not interrupting another, or who got served first, when tea were passed around. Sohe did not have the power to decide for them all, but she did have the position of respect, for others to give her a degree of priority, and acknowledgement. "If your elders are too stubborn, think of it less as convincing them, but the next generation to come instead. Life is finite. Eventually, their time will come to an end, and the next in line will determine how your people will be lead. So if your current elders will not listen, remember that there will be others, and perhaps the next generation will be more amendable to reason." "I can only agree on that. Yet still, it will not help with your immediate issues, if the ruins you spoke of have become active, and will lure others in, or cause trouble in some other way. Even if your elders will listen, I have doubts they would be interested, or able to handle such a thing. It may even place you worse, if you speak of it. You may have to rely on yourself, and your closest allies in this. Even if they are not of your own kin. Though be cautious, lest you are seen as exposing them to strangers, before they are ready. Furthermore, I see no reason to doubt your word currently, on your old friend, Sen. We do not need Omen to vouch for regret, that already rests soundly on your tongue." It were a troubling path they had ahead of them, and the elders did not envy them. Though in truth, they were curious, and if given the chance, either of them might well accept an invitation to go there themselves, if it were presented eventually. They could be of help more than likely, and as elders of their own people, perhaps there could be some common ground for them to start from. Something not involving a lot of what they might see as radical young creatures, with crazy, new age ideas. "I had to take him away, before Sen did something bad. I do not understand it all, but Mother wants us to protect our masters. Sen is my friend, so he should also be protected. Even from himself." Omen were slowly getting some mobility back into her limbs, so she'd hopefully be able to stand up right again soon. It would be best not to give her more alcohol though. Might just be the sake, or it could be drinks in general,. but she seemed to have a zero tolerance biology to it, so it were likely best not to take chances. "I see no reason to not answer that. We send our kits to Equestria, for two reasons: Education, and seeking allies. Kitsune and the Neighponese ponies have not gotten along well historically. We are currently in a state of neutrality, but it could flip towards open warfare on us again, if their next leader is a zealous one. We are capable of defending ourselves, but the question remains, what would happen if they came with something we had not seen. We hear rumor for instance, that the nation of Troy are experimenting with anti magic weaponry. I don't see why they would bring that here, but if they had it, others may too eventually, or some other weapon we had not thought of, and weren't prepared for. We reproduce slowly. If our towns were destroyed, and our kin killed in droves, it could take a century or more before we would be enough for a full scale village of our own. While it is unlikely to happen, we cannot live under the assumption that it is impossible, when we as elders, are meant to both guide, and protect our kin. Equestria is a strong nation, but these days it is something it have not been for centuries: Inclusive, and welcoming to non-equines. Among the other races, we see now that if we are to seek an ally in Equestria, this is the time to do so, as Princess Twilight makes more and more connections. We do not think they can wage war on our behalf, or spare a lot of troops, if things were to happen. But they will reach Neighpon with words of friendship and cooperation eventually, and she does a good job of that. We debated this for nearly a full year, before we came to the conclusion, that she might be able to ally a shattered country, when that day came. But she needed to know of not just the ponies, but also us, free from the faerie tales and what propaganda the Neighponese will tell them. Our kits went there, to attend her school, where she and her friends wander the halls with regularity. This is the place to expose them to our kin, as well as for them to get a good education not only from our scriptures, but that of the Equestrians too. As they learn, so too will they teach, and show that our kin are not simply tricksters, with no reason beyond playing games, but a people of tradition, with a wealth of depth." She would need a pause now, to catch her breath, and drink some water. Zhao would take over, as she parched her throat. "The kits in question, were picked from a group of volunteers, and eventually, the headmistress at the school have agreed to send a student or two to our town as well, to study and learn. We hope that this will lead to her being willing to hear our call for help, in reaching some degree of lasting peace with our government, or at the least be able to provide shelter, or assistance, if the end begins here in Neighpon. We have interacted with other races for centuries, wandering around, playing some tricks, and observing. Our teachers at times, even bring students out to learn about other races in a controlled environment, like an area caught in a strong illusion, with one or two beings there to show them. Some have even settled down in places far from our shore over time, or roams freely to explore the world. This is a notable step further, as we are opening our reclusive towns up for others now, but we believe it is time to do so. Weapons, new diseases, an uprise in stronger and stronger monsters- There will eventually come a time, when standing alone, marks a disaster that we might be unable to recover from. Your people will have to acknowledge and accept that as well, before your day of reckoning comes. Which might be sooner than you have expected, if the parasite is anything to go by." "There is much still to do for us today, so our time will soon enough become limited, but I can lend you a scroll that might prove educational." Zhao would twirl her right paw, and a stream of raw magic would flow from her paw, and weave into a small, ethereal fox, running out of the room. A slight afterglow followed it like a trail, as it ran off. "It will retrieve a scroll for us, that will help you. I will expect you to not destroy it, and to read what it is in there properly. It's in the common tongue, so it should not present an issue, I would assume?" ============================================================== @Rising Dusk "No need to even grow your own, or make a personal carriage. How delightful concept. Last I had a carriage of my own, I had to go and not only salvage and repair it, but also make my own wickerman to drag it. These fine gentlecolts are much easier on the eye though." They also wouldn't need the maintenance that her wickerman had needed. She did a fine job with it, and it didn't drop body parts all over the place, but sometimes something came crashing through the woods, and it were a pain to remake it over and over again. Honestly she didn't feel that bad, when the carriage and the wickerman were smashed finally beyond repair. The most important things in it were mostly intact, and she managed to get a good fire going that night, to stave off the cold. One had to look for the positive things in life. Sometimes that required you to narrow your eyes, and look closely for that silver lining, but she believed it best to do so. Being in a rut wouldn't get her anywhere. Though she doubted she'd feel dismayed anytime soon. Equestria were a wealth of marvelous sights, that she were simply thrilled to take in. Good or bad, it were a wealth of new experiences, as well as things to work on. It were going to be a fun time, and sooner or later, she were sure that Will-O would feel that too. She just needed time, to get through all the horrendous things that she had become aware of in the last day. Caramel wouldn't say it aloud, but she truly felt no joy, telling Will-O of her heritage. Much as she knew that the mare had to know, just as much as the priestess did, for the safety of herself, seeing the light drain from her eyes, and her face fall... Will-O were her friend, and causing her this pain were not something she wished to do. Yet it were better that it had come from her, than from some uncaring guard, making her worried she might be about to be executed. "...Huh? Oh, I'm s-sorry, it's just... Your home. I didn't think it would also do this outside." "A marvel of magic this one. I think we can both learn much from Dawn, wouldn't you say so?" "If this sort can be learned, but... It's very impressive. Just more expansive than I had thought. Much more powerful in nature, than anything I thought I'd ever see, and live through." There were always the lingering threat in Harrowmark, of getting Twisted's attention, and potentially have his grasp of primordial magic, heaved upon you. Something that were bound to end in horrifying death, of worse. Will-O were not one who believed that could never happen to her, and so she always figured that if she saw immensely powerful magic, it would be that, and it would be the last thing she saw. To think that she had now seen this, both inside and out, and were not just able to live to tell the tale, but actually talked to in friendly terms, with the one who caused it? She never would have believed it, if it had been told her before today. It were exciting honestly. Exciting, and also somewhat terrifying. Dawn was lovely and seemed very sweet, but her magic were terrifying in its capabilities, and made her certain that if there were one thing in this world, that she never wanted to be, it were Dawn's enemy. She got the feeling that Dawn's did in fact make right. Long as she handled the evidence, and she probably could. "M-My apologies for before, Miss Dawn. I will take your advice to heart, and do my best to follow it." They were both majorly impressed with what they saw, on the inside of this carriage. Chirpy had a nice view from the outside too, but here inside, it were a marvel of indulgence. They were both slow to enter as they gazed upon that, and then further, wouldn't even seat at first. They were too busy both poking at the seating, feeling the softness, and look at the indulgent interior to be in a hurry. Caramel laughed a little at how silly they must look, when she realized that. "Ohohoho. I can imagine we must seem funny right now, poking at things like we're wanderers of a different age, trying to understand the oddness around us. Yet still, that is a very apt description, and this place is... How would I best describe it... I have seen certain overindulgent ponies and diamond dogs in my time, that flaunts what they have, by lavishly making a big deal out of their homes, and what they own. While I expected your home to blow that out of proportions, I did not think a carriage of all things, to be beating that as well. And without being tacky even." She'd take a seat, shortly followed by the now blushing Will-O, after she had been made aware of how they must appear. Something that made Caramel laugh some, as she found the display highly amusing. They'd both get a good look at this part of town, as they gazed out of the windows. Quite the sight, though Will-O did muse over it, after a time of seeing the same degree of luxury around them. "This is the part of town where the higher end ponies are, right?" "Does something worry you, Will-O?" "Yes. Well... Maybe. I just see all of this, and I kinda just worry, if that means that away from here, there's many that have to live on the streets." They came from a society were resources were finite, as well as scarce. If one had to live like Dawn did, hundreds of others would have to live in a way where they would be lucky to get food during a day, much less have shelter. This were a brilliant sight yes, but the thought had crept up on her, as she kept seeing the luxury, and it tainted her modicum of joy somewhat. Despite her heritage likely making some think otherwise, Will-O cared about others, a lot. It were one of the reasons she were a town protector in the first place. So the thought that all of this, came at the expense of others being able to live, caused her some concern. ================================================================================ @Lawyer Slip While he were talking - more specifically, after he slapped himself - her smile would lessen somewhat, and she'd tilt her head to the side, looking at this peculiar new friend of hers again. "I mean, if there ever were a place for an alicorn, it would be Ponyville. This place have lots of types. Same with changelings, of which there's a few in town. I've spooked one right out of his disguise. Say, are you... Okay? You seemed to stagger and then slap yourself. Have you recently hit your head? Maybe overextended yourself too much, or you've forgotten to drink enough water?" She were just worried about him. If he'd just let her know that there weren't anything serious, or if he'd just explain it, she'd ease up. Amnesia were not good, but it wasn't life threatening. She were mostly worried about him potentially being about to pass out, since sometimes those who were woozy, would slap themselves to try and *wake up*. Usually it wasn't something bad. Could be a heat stroke, lack of water, blood sugar- The whole works. But it could also be more serious, so she just wanted to be sure., because she cared, and didn't want to see him hurt. Provided he eased her mind on this - he did not need to provide details, if he decided on the truth - she'd continue on with the big smile returning to her face, and the joyful aura that made it seem like sunshine and bunnies were about to fall out of her mouth when she spoke. If not, she'd still respond, but her attitude would be more muted, as her worry would go over her general, joyful enthusiasm. "And my companion's not someone you met. Probably anyway. Far as I know, they're pretty rare. Like, *Thought-to-be-extinct* sort of rare. Her name's Fah'lina, and she's a... Hold on.... Right, Discordian Knight Squirrel. There's a more fancy species name, but it's pretty boring. I ran into her nearly a month ago, and she's decided to stick around. Not my pet though, Nooo. She doesn't like being called that. I'd say how she were, but it's kinda hard to explain properly. I think you'll have more fun seeing it for yourself, when she shows up later. Lyriel took her to see a friend in the forest. You've seen Lyriel actually, or this might not make sense. She moved into the forest with that dragon a few weeks ago. She's a dryad. You ever seen one of those? Made all out of vegetation and stuff. Kinda like Evergrown, but different." Ponyville attracted a lot of odd characters, and especially in recent months. An alicorn here were special, but at least to her, it fit the whole thing of Ponyville being a weird mixture of creatures, from all over the place. Now meeting him, were going to be a different thing entirely. She might get a bit tourist'y by that point.

@Props Valroa (Spectra) "I hunt nobles and break them down mentally for their crimes, and we're headed towards a country that separated from Equestria, because they oppose the monarchy. I don't need to hide my identity. I only need to be prepared for a full debriefing, as they'd want to know everything I have learned." He wasn't being smug about it. He knew that this would be the case, which might also include them taking her for interrogation in the bad way, for a few days. Depended on whom he would be sent to, he supposed. As their trip would take them on, they would be able to see something odd in the distance., Something not on the map. It wasn't too far from Deltrot, with them able to see the highest towers far in the distance. That is, if they looked past the large effigy that were build over the river, crossing from one side to the other in a bow, with then a large plate going up. Both sides of said plates had unintelligible scribbles on it, and the whole thing seemed to be made out of some sort of polished, white stone. And on top of it, currently finishing up on the inscriptions, were the construct, with a thin beam from its hand, carving the smooth symbols into the plate. They would notice it, before it noticed them. ============================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) The relief he felt when he saw and thus knew, that this were the real one, were immense. Of course the orders came right after, but he expected nothing less from her. Business and a focused mind as always, although he assumed they should also schedule a spa treatment for her, as well as some new clothes. Potentially while he finished some paperwork? He'd consider saying it, once he had his turn to speak. After his response to her orders, of course. He had to tend to her business first. "I will inform Clayton Quartz of your requirements, as soon as I am able. If he is working on a larger project currently, I will indicate that the contract might go to Hammerstone Industries. He will make time for your home, if he hears that." Clayton Quartz were a wealthy business owner in Canterlot. At least his main seat were here, but his construction firm had offices in several places throughout Equestria, as well as storage facilities for the various materials he used to make buildings from. Not a noble himself, he had earned every bit he had gotten, by making his company from scratch, financed in parts by his immense knowledge of valuable gems. His firm were also the best in the business, as he took personal pride in everything he made being up to par, and wouldn't tolerate failure. His homes even had a ten year guarantee, to cement that, and a long story of making homes that fit even the more outlandish wants of his clientele. His work included everything from nobles homes, to resorts, to recently, ensuring that Ponyville got repaired and improved, after specs from the peculiar forepony they had at the time, out of his own pockets. Yes it were tax deductible, but he still liked to be helpful, and didn't want to be cold and indifferent towards those with lesser means. Hammerstone were second rank in comparison, but still did fine work, and the two had a rivalry going. Knowing that his rival might get a contract for a returning noble, that were going to create a lot of publicity, would definitely make Clayton take notice and ensure that some of his finest workers were on the case. It were not cheap, but quality work seldom were. "I still make sure that your immediate family are updated on things, and still run various legal cases for your husband. I can assure you that Filthy Rich, and Diamond Tiara are alive and well, and furthermore that your husband is still legally married to you. I have never gotten the inclination that he wanted to return to her, but I have heard some murmurs that they have spoken. From what I can tell, it seemed he simply needed somepony to talk to, after you were presumed dead. Understandable grief as it were. His mansion is still there too. It were only your primary home here in Canterlot that were torched. Your summer home, and mansion in Ponyville, yet remains, and he lives there currently. Soon as everything is in order, I will have it arranged for us to go meet them. It is best that the news does not get there before you do, lest they think it a cruel joke of sorts. You remember how it went with Mrs. Goldie, yes?" One of the cases of a noble replaced by a changeling. It were a long, messy affair, that sadly did not have a happy ending, as the changeling had accidentally ended up killing Goldie, before taking her place for a few years, prior to being found out. This were one of the tales that were the cause for the increased security, when it came to returning nobles that had gone missing. One that had reached its conclusion around a year before Spoiled went missing. He would scribble down some details on his papers, that already had the other things she had said thus far. He didn't need to look at it. He were used to writing whilst focusing on his clients, as that tended to be the way they preferred it. The times they did not, he picked up on the signs most times, and pretended he did need it. Nobles were a delicate business to handle at times. "I am afraid that the entire scope of what your kidnapper are capable of, are beyond my current knowledge, madame. But it sounds as if what you want, are rather reasonable. Especially considering the circumstances. I will make sure to mention to Clayton that you will require a safe room in every home of yours, including the new one. Or should it simply be limited to your new main residence?" He would wait for the answer to that, before going on. "Regarding the guards... I will try and file the required paperwork to ensure we get informed, but it might be an uphill battle. I will make sure to threaten them with publicity if they do not comply though. If this is critical enough, they would not want it seen in details in the news papers If that is all for now, I will go and file the right paperwork, yet the process will take the better part of an hour at least. Far be it from me to give you orders madame, but might I suggest a trip to your usual spa in the meantime? I can make sure to have a new, hood crafted outfit prepared for you as well, if you would require so. From Gold Needle Boutique, of course." Gold Locks and Needle Flow, ran one of the best dress makers in Canterlot. It were not the most expensive of the options, but it were still a high end store, that had some prestige to it. Including their service of offering a brand new dress and a hair and mane styling, so you were ready to go, straight from their store. It might come in handy now, considering Spoiled's... Somewhat rough state. He assumed she'd want to freshen up, before meeting her family again. He'd also need to talk to her about her extended family and the issues there, but that would be later. It were best that she focused on her immediate family first, before the rest would grind her gears. ====================================================================== (Treasure) They would examine the picture, but it didn't seem to hold much to it. "The Canterlot Museum would likely adore having this in their collection, but beyond that, so far I see nothing of interest here, beyond the age giving us a pointer to go by at the least. Arcadian paintings like this were some of the things the lingering remnants of the town held on to dearly, according to the stories. I am not sure she ever were part of the high families, but she might have been there to steal from them." "She isn't in the picture itself at the least, so she wouldn't be part of theirs, but yes, she might have been part of their society proper. Things like this, would be among those things still beyond the wall, I can imagine. So this had to come from before it were sealed up. Perhaps if we find more info on them later, we can find if there's maybe a mention of somepony like her in their tales. If not, we can probably assume she started in the town's later years. Before she'd have a chance to get a reputation." They'd check the painting proper. Not breaking it, but looking over closely and carefully, the picture and the frame. Every inch, but unless something stuck out, like a hollow room for a slip of paper or something (yes, they would knock on it too, just to see if something sounded off), they would move on to the next thing. A small box of assorted nips it seemed. The top layer were jewels, but maybe something else in the cigarbox-sized container were worth having a look at. The jewelry themselves might be too, or the coins. If there were foreign denominations, that could help establish some things too.

@Illiad Easle (Null) The fox didn't suddenly wake up, but it did seem to loosen its folds briefly, to get a better grip on the feather, before it fell dormant again. It would help, but it didn't have things like breathing to show how it were doing. It were still at the end of the day, simply paper. But its tail would wage weakly a few times, before energy reserve mode were fully initialized. If this sort of thing were helpful, perhaps it could if nothing else, be made to carry them. It'd need more paper in its form, to have room for this, and the other feathers though, if they were to take them along. They'd need to both go and dig up the other feathers though, as well as see the performing kitsune. This sort of handywork were for their kind to handle, and the other one were likely not high on their list of beings they wanted to see. Not after he had broken into their room. "I'll talk to the staff when we get there. I'm sure they'll understand us wanting another room for now." If Arcade needed it, she would help her to carry Ardee. Which ideally she imagined would be required, as the latter were larger, but if he had it covered, and did not need her help, then her trying to force in on it would just delay them. Though all the same, she'd stand ready to be of some help if not. Might be she were a bit roughed up too, and didn't have a magic healing fox to help her, but she'd toughen it out for now. She wasn't bleeding, and this weren't her time to be in focus for things. It'd be fine. When they got back to the hotel, she'd go straight to the receptionist, and ask her about the room and everything. She wouldn't get long in answering anything though, before Penny would come and take over, to say that it had been arranged, with the old room blocked off for now, while everything were thoroughly investigated. She'd also apologize on behalf of the hotel, for the lack of security causing that. Which did take some out of her, as humility were not her strong suit, but she were trying to improve at it, and this seemed almost genuine. The sort of *corporate excuse with a tinge of realness* that many would tend to be used to, when dealing with things like this. Null didn't assume anything else at least, and just asked for directions. She'd get that, along with the new key. It weren't like they were being put in a suite, but they'd go a layer up, and farther to the right. The room were around the same size, and immaculately clean. This one also had a fair sized window, so they could have a view. It would do fine. And as for the old rooms, they were as mentioned, currently locked off, with investigators giving both it, and the room the kitsune had been in a closer look. So far they hadn't gotten much though. Nor had they managed to find the kitsune in question. It were like he had vanished into thin air. Though The Grey could likely catch him if it were needed. He were still within city limits. Anyway, for Arcade and her, the important task right now, would be to get Ardee to bed. She needed to get some strength back, and frankly, the two of them could probably do with a pause on things too. Just a chance to catch their breath, before the next thing would happen. ========================================================================================= (School) "Your caretaker would have to get in contact with me, and then I can set up a time for you. You can come in with her too, if you'd like to see the place first, of course. We can set up a good day for a tour, and a show and tell on how I do things there, maybe? I'm sure Cherish wouldn't mind having some friends over for a visit either, if you'd like to return for other reasons too." Her consultation ran from a room next to her primary residence. There weren't a good reason for getting extra space elsewhere, when they had to focus on having enough for those living here in the first place. It worked well too so far, though she were of course extra careful, after having adopted Cherish. The filly now looking with extra energy in her eyes, and ears standing straight up, by the sound that maybe there'd be a chance of others coming around to play with her sometime. Sure she loved hanging out with Crow, but it were nice with more friends too. Some who might in turn, want to come see her too. It'd be good for Crow to socialize more. She would patiently wait, for Lilac to ask her question in full, before responding to it. "It varies from creature to creature. Most times though, it starts off with me asking some questions, about what troubles them, and then I go on from there. Asking more closely in to things, and see if I can help to talk them through what troubles them. It takes time, but it does work for the majority of creatures. Sometimes, those that come to me will need some medication on top of a talk though. I can't give them any, as I don't have that kind of thing with me, but I can talk with a doctor, to make sure they get something that will help. It is rare that medicine will get involved though. It's mostly as a last resort, or for severe mental illness. The vast majority of times, the treatments are done with words, and like I said earlier, it will be words between me and whomever comes in. I don't go around and tell others secrets. It's both morally and legally not allowed for me to do something like that." "It's true. When I first came to town, I was sent in to talk to her, and she's never said anything to anyone. And it's lots of talking. Sometimes stuff that's hard to talk about too, but... It's good not to sit alone with it. It makes it less hard to deal with some days." She still had her episodes. A few near hits here at school, and every once in a while, crying session when she were at home, or out with Crow, where she just broke down, but she were doing a lot better now. And most of that, were down to all the help that Sooth gave her, both early on, and more as time went on. Having someone who didn't judge her, as she talked about things, but tried to actually help, were stopping it from getting worse, and she were slowly learning to come to terms with things, and be on the path to actually heal up after things. But it'd probably take a while more. Potentially years. She had... Seen some things. Horrible, horrible things.

@Catpone Cerberus "Ah, so you're from a separate dimension? That would explain the outlandish metalwork you are imbued with." She wasn't all that surprised. There had been scientists that had proven the existence of other worlds, since before she had arrived there. They even had a small token from another world, that were the basis of how they had managed to get a rare glimpse into one of them. Though they hadn't been able to do it for a while. It still required an alignment of various things, and some unorthodox methods. And even then, it were unstable, and inconsistent. It were enough to prove it though. So yes, she could believe this story, and it would fit well, as she could imagine that she would have heard, if there had ben any research into things like what she were seeing now. There were also the way the princesses banished others to other worlds of course, but Center Zero were a place for scientists. It wasn't the same if they couldn't find a scientific way to handle things, rather than trying to find a way to harness the elements. Which would have required them to find those things in the first place, so not like that had been much of an option anyway. "Could I inquire about your method of transportation? Were it intentional, or accidental? And you mention your technology is more advanced. Is that only in regards to biomechanical advancements, or is it true for other fields too? For instance, might you have some knowledge on biochemistry and advanced extra-species transmutation? For example the molecular transference of meat and bones, to an active, purely natural substance, such as that of rock, or water, and vice versa? Or were it more in the veins of robotics?" It were a shot in the dark perhaps, but it never hurt to ask, yes? She were curious now, and depending on the answer, perhaps even a little hopeful. The Equestria she lived in, and the wider world in general, far as she knew, had next to no information regarding transmutation, beyond more *simple* things, like one metal to another, or iron to stone. Elements within the same spectrum, were something that were getting some fascinating results here and there, but she sought information beyond that. Transformation not within the same classification or element, but completely different. The change of the entire molecular structure from for instance a normal, fleshy pony, to a purely elemental state, or as it were, the other way around. That were currently so far out from their abilities among the scientists she even knew of, that there had only ever been one study even touching upon the subject, and it were extraordinarily lacking in nature. They'd likely be at least forty years away from even the most basic advancements in that field. Or she could ask this one, who seemed to be from a more technologically advanced version of their society. If so, it might be that science as a whole were decades, of not centuries ahead. Perhaps there would be some answers to be had there, and they could do an exchange of information? She might not be the known survivor from Center Zero, but she had lived and worked in the town, and thus could provide the navigation and passwords required, for a smooth transition of information. Be it from the known survivor, or the town itself, if they could get access to it. Their orders would arrive within the next four minutes, so they had a bit of time to chat before things moved on. ============================================================= @Catpone Cerberus The undead leader, looked at her, with small lights flickering in the empty eye sockets. He may be more preserved than all but the deer she had passed before, but he were still undead. Mummified, and lacking in things, such as organs, or eyes. It had seemingly not been deemed important, or it were something related to tradition. A question for someone else to answer, as she had more pressing matters to attend, than pondering over ancient history. "Perhaps you speaketh truth. I know that they left with great speed, and it followed them. But now it is back. If not following you, then maybe they have perished, and it must return to slumber. The dragon's might, could force it back." He'd shift his face, seemingly looking behind her, at the cut off entrance she had gotten through, whilst the priestess would lower her staff, a faint aura of darkness beginning to pour. Yet he rose a hoof, and it halted, the magic returning to her staff, before it touched Leviathan. "So hear my words, equine: Take her, return it to slumber below, and then, you will know freedom. Leave this temple, and neither you, nor she shall follow." His horns would light up with a see through darkness, and rays of dark magic would hastily impact Leviathan's chest, and towards Ruby. The ones from the left antler hitting Leviathan, would carve a dark mark on her scales, marking her with a curse. Whilst the ones from the right antler, would be attempting to hit Ruby, and carving a symbol on her too. She could avoid it, but he would be relentless, and would likely eventually hit the mark, unless she did something unusual. If not, she'd feel as if a pit had hit her stomach, that refused to leave. An unpleasant, unwelcome curse, that would not ease up, until their task would be done. If she were impacted, the priestess would move away from Leviathan, who'd soon after open her eyes, and let out a large gasp, heaving for breath, before grimacing, and clutching her belly. "Urgh, feels like something's squirming around in there. What've you done?" ================================================================= @Catpone Cerberus Late the day after, there'd come a letter to Trox and Sheska, informing them that her prosthetic had been finished, and to please come to the hospital when they had time. Said hospital still had regular hours for the next hour, so if they made their way there now, they'd be able to have this done before day's end. If they did get there in time, they'd be able to ask for Doctor Neon, who would be reading a paper. Her office were clean here, and things were calm this time of the evening, so she could relax a bit. At least until she saw them, and a grin got on her face. "Heeey, somepony got my message! Great stuff. We got the stuff in earlier than I had dared to hope, and I went right on it. School's been quiet today, so I go back here at times to help out. You know how it is, yeah? Anyway, before I show you, can I see your tail before that please? Just want to make sure we shouldn't clean it first, just in case. Been a hectic time in town, so all sorts of dust and grime could have snuck in, even if it wasn't meant to." ===================================================================== @Lawyer Slip (forgot to add a picture of her. Here it is) "Las Pegasus is amazing! It's mostly in two parts, right? The cloud layer is the biiiig tourist area. Some casinos, but mostly foal friendly attractions all over. Then there's the ground level, where most of the casinos, living spaces for non-pegasi, and business tend to be. Some of the buildings are so tall though, that they poke into the sky layer. The main hospital is one of those. You really outta see it. Just party at the game corner, take the big ferris wheel, play your pocket change away at the Top Suits- There's loads to do, all throughout the day and night You seriously need to see it! I lived there my whole life, and I've never seen anywhere like it. Of course I did spend most of that time in the hospital, but I still got to see things through the windows, and a lot more when I turned 17, and could go outside more than a few hours. I did like the time my parents and the hospital staff let me go out with my siblings. Hehe, they look more like mom, so more pegasi-like than me, and they're her height too, but they're great ponies. My brother is working at a wildlife resort, and my sister's working on becoming an accountant like our mom is. It's Really funny when others see the three of us together. We're triplets, and they look exactly the same, but I am nowhere near it. It confuses the hay of of folks." She'd giggle, after going off a bit of a tangent, and stepping in place. Culminating with her pulling out a picture from inside her vest. It showed her, next to a pair of regular pegasi. Their coats were snow white, and their mane and tails lemon green and bushy in fashion, as if they'd just been widely tussled, and they both grinned widely at the camera, with Ziggy towering over them in the middle. Her mane too seeming tussled, so they had fun before it were taken it seemed. Though the mare were laying down on her belly, so she were more in their head height than normally. The only difference between the other two, seemed to be a mark. A lemon green droplet in their coat, that were under the left eye of the female, and the right eye of the male. Flanking them all, were a mare and a stallion. The mare looking having a faded, dark green coat and orange mane and tail, looking over through a pair of sharp glasses at the camera. She looked very professional, standing there in her suit and her tied back mane, but the pegasus were not frumpy. All smiles here. The stallion were a zebra, plain and simple. White and black, with a slicked back mane, neck and leg rings, tribal markings- The whole thing. He smiled, but looked more reserved about things, as he gazed into the camera. Not a harsh thought in his head, just not the most comfy around cameras. "See? That's me in the middle, then my siblings Lemon Drop and Citrus Slinger. And then there's our parents! That's mom. She's an accountant. I think I said that already? Anyway, her name's Math Crunch. And then there's dad. They met because he's a showman in Las Pegasus. He always draws a huge crowd, since folks are crazy curious about zebras. That's how they met to. His name is Zhoran. They're the bestest. I also have a companion somewhere here in town, but she's off doing something right now. You'll meet her later." She put the picture back in her inner pocket, and pushed up her frames. There were no glass in them, it were just he frames. Why she wore those then, were another matter entirely. "Anyway, you like racing, huh? Like professionally, or a hobby? Cause Las Pegasus have a race! I couldn't ever win that sort. I don't fly normally, so it takes off speed and stuff, but eh, it works for me, and it's more fun that way. Race ponies are a fun sort though. I knew a few in the hospital. They came around now and again because of strains. And some of them hit the track rings. That sounded real painful." ============================================================================== @Evil Pink One "If there is something, it's probably nothing serious. Just chin up, and let's see." She'd apply a local anesthetic, and then open up to see. And rightly so, there were something, that the doctor would slowly, and carefully extract. It appeared to be a sliver of metal. Probably something that had gotten dislodged and got stuck in there after he got poisoned, and lost track of things. Potentially when Shark tackled him. More than likely that honestly. Either way, she'd take it out with the pincers, and then leave it to the side for now. She didn't even have to ask for what she needed next, as the lieutenant would give her a freshly retrieved tetanus shot, a bandage, and some cleaning alcohol. "This might sting a bit, but try and keep still." She'd clean the wound, then stitch it up, and at the end, give him the shot. Wouldn't take more than a few minutes. She were a professional after all. "There we go. Just try not to rummage in dirt, and you'll be fine. Come back if something seems off though, okay? Better to be sure." Shark would go over and sniff the metal, getting a sense of how her mate's blood were. She had no interest in ingesting it currently though. Her mate were not food, and she should only taste his blood if she were licking a wound that were bleeding, yes? Probably. ============================================================================ @EQ_Theta The elders looked pleased as they saw the three interact. It were good to see that there were a true bond between them like this. They were likely to need it, for the times ahead of them, if their words were any indication. It did not sound as if their meeting with the elders of their village, were something nice, pleasant, or even easy. Worthwhile most certainly though. Even with what little they knew, they could tell that it were going to be a step towards a better future for the longma. The first in a long road, to get to that end goal. "It is nice to see you have resolve, and faith in one another. It will do you well, in your future trials." "I concur. It is not an easy task, but by all accounts an important one. There comes a time when everyone needs to try and communicate, and evolve. Being isolated and cut off from everyone else, only takes you so far. You might think it hypocritical, since we are also isolated, but we do make contact. And have taken a step further, by sending some of our kits to the town of Ponyville. It's risky, but we trust they will be safe. At least that they will be now." "Yes, the situation with the Oni. I am still surprised they encountered one there, of all places. I haven't heard off them so far from Neighpon before." "At least it is done. Elder Rhugan handled things well, though I did expect her to stay longer, to speak with the kits, or look around. You know how she is." "Like you wouldn't be worried about them too. They're your family as well. But you know Rhugan. She plays her own games, and acts when things are right. She likely didn't think it were the right time. I can imagine we will find her absent a few times soon enough." "Indeed. She is ever her own little mystery. Always were." "Maybe we should talk of it later. This is of these three, our talks of your sister and our own squabbles can wait." Zhao would nod, and take a sip more, as well as a biscuit. Rhugan and her were both elders, although she were the oldest, and thus had been able to decide which part of her name she wanted associated with her elder title. She had picked her first name, and thus it fell to her to use their family name of Zhao. It were tradition, and she considered tradition to be highly important. "There is no easy way, unless you're willing to let me completely rake your mind. It isn't easy to take over a mind, that simply isn't there anymore, but that is not something I would willingly inflict upon anyone, unless under strict duress. It does not sound like you would want to end up in that vegetative state either." Just because you could do something, didn't mean that you should. Destroying someone's mind, fell comfortably into that category of something that she could technically do, but had no want to do in practice. "The mind is a delicate muscle, and like any other, it must be trained to be stronger. Meditation exercises will be your simplest way forward, but sharpening your mind can be done in several other ways. Solving complex puzzles or crosswords for instance, can count as light training. But meditation is your best option, that does not include magic. And remember ever, that as said, the mind is delicate. A small mistake, and you could find yourself losing the mind, that you were trying to protect." "I can offer you some meditation advise if it were. Perhaps it will be of some help, but you will need to put in the work. That said, perhaps there would be something that could be done to undo the initiate hold there is on your minds. But I would need specific details from the ruins then. Some record of how it were applied in the first place. Have I that, I am certain we can have it safely neutralized." "Oh, that would be a fun time. But don't stress yourselves too much now. You three have an important task ahead of you it sounds like. It should be your first focus. If you try too much at once, you will simply spread yourselves too thinly. This meeting with your elders. Have you prepared for what they are bound to ask? Some things will likely be obvious to you, but have you thought on the answers yet? Preparation is an important thing. Doubly so for something as monumental as the first step, to a brighter tomorrow." She would take a biscuits too, gnawing a bit of it down. It did not need to be, as were shown when Omen took one, and slid it down in her usual fashion, but the elders liked savoring the taste. Had they known there were one who would just down anything, they might have been tempted to add one with extra hot spices of some sort. They might be elders, but they were still kitsune. A harmless prank were all fun and games.

@Catpone Cerberus We can stat off easily then. We skip a day, and they get a message about the tail prosthetic. I can have the nurse help them from there to find a place to settle in perhaps. Seems as good a start as any. As for the draconequui... Anomaly is my most *typical* draconequus. I still haven't used, and thus not settled well on Gluttony and Avarice, though my idea there still is generally that Avarice, is a bit of a money grubber, and somewhat unnerving to others to be around. More nervous and skittish than annoying. Gluttony is a brash, straight to the point sort. She'd do some tricks, and some jokes (like how she has a dog leas tied to one of her back teeth, to give off the impression she might have eaten a dog, just to mess with folks), but she's generally a lot of *What you see, ifs what you get*. Fright I have used, and I have her as calm, kind, and considerate. She is the Spirit of Fear, and looks the part, but she have found a better way to utilize fear, than scaring others. Hence the meditation center, and why others have their fear taken away when she is nearby. She feasts on their fear, whilst being helpful, and this way, others comes to her, rather than run from her. It makes her feel far less lonely.

@Catpone Cerberus Ooooh, I'm sorry, I misunderstood. I thought you wanted them retired. You meant the dragon and the bard. xD Bugger. My bad there. A time skip is fine. I can imagine that at this point, something nice and calm is ideal then, yes? Sooo... I should keep the radioactive ninja squid in their box? Jesting of course. Or am I? (Yes, I am) Anyway, that as an aside, what sort of thing had you in mind? I could have the kitsune swing by again. They're fresh in this scenario too, being far from home, with high expectations to them not misbehaving. It would be easy to make a reason for them to come around, if they heard of the thing that went biting in the inn. They'd be worried for them, as Trox and Sheska, are among the few they know somewhat well in the area. We can go further too, and I can have someone stumble over them per chance. I have adventurers, oddities, sales beings, black market associates, scientists, etc. I can have one for pretty much every scenario, calm or active. You just lemme know what sort you have in mind. I do have three special draconequui too if it is. Two I haven't used yet (Avarice and Gluttony, former being somewhat skittish and obsessed with shiny things, and the latter more brutish and direct), and Fright, who is good if the siblings have some trauma they might want help with. She runs a meditation temple, that for instance helps those who needs it, to face their fears. She's also likely the oldest character I have access too, so if they'd want more of a personal telling of the world they are in now, she'd be good at explaining too. (AKA, I BS my way through pretend history. ) It all comes down to what you want with/for them. I'm here to accommodate, best I can. ============================================================================ @EQ_Theta Roger that. Take the time you need, and enjoy your holidays. ^^

@Illiad Easle Wrote something now. If that isn't what you meant though, I haven't gotten the faintest idea how to incorporate things. I can't exactly have her use specific foals as examples, as that is highly unprofessional, and shows a clear lack of respect. I tried to touch on most things though.

@Illiad Easle (Null) "Can't say I expected it to happen like this, but you earned it, Ardee. Your very own cutie mark." She wasn't the lovey dovey sort like her sister. Had Void been here, she'd have grabbed Ardee into a hug and cried along with her probably. She on the other hoof, were more of a sort of *Pat you on the shoulder* sort of pony, when it came to friends. Though she'd go closer, and she wouldn't run off, in case Ardee needed some physical contact. If not, she'd just stand, with an honest smile creeping involuntarily upon her face. "Basher and I were having a not so fun time, and then Ardee came in and beat on him. Something were off with his fighting, compared to when it were just me and him, but anyway, Ardee got the better of him. Grey Mare just came and picked him up a few minutes ago. Turns out all that fighting also caused her to get a cutie mark. It's pretty good. You should have a look." More impressive than hers at least, but eh, was what it were. Neither her nor Void, had been lucky in that department. Ardee were on the better side, and rightly so. Seemed fair after the stuff she'd been through, since she got made in the first place, and 'til now. Hopefully she'd be proud of it, and not be one of those that tried to hide their mark, though she doubted that. She had seemed far too joyful over this, for it to make sense that she'd use dyes, or a skirt or something of the sort. When the fox finally got there, it'd head straight for Ardee, and climbed up on top of her, rubbing its head against the top of hers. She had been away from it for far too long, for its taste, and she seemed roughed up in some way. Not badly, but still some. It could tell the little pony expected it to do something about it. The way she stared indicated as much. Wasn't like it were happy about it, as it already spent a fair amount of its limited magic before, but... *sigh* fine! But it better get that pamphlet later. It would begin to run over Ardee where it saw the worst, and jump over the wounds, or rub against it, from the tip of its nose, to the tip of its tail. A faint green mist seemed to radiate on the wounds it touched, or jumped over when it did. It wasn't massive amounts of healing, but it did what it could to take the worst scrapes and sooth the bruises some, before it eventually - with clear struggle - would crawl up on her back, and then collapse. It were utterly spent right now, and couldn't do more. Not as it were now. "So it could do these sorta things. Not fully though... You might wanna swing by that kitsune and ask if he can beef it up somehow. Seems it'd be practical for you." It were a construct, made by the kitsune performer. Seemed to her like he might be able to increase its capacity perhaps, in case stuff got worse for Ardee eventually, and she needed proper healing. ========================================================================================= (School) "I were about to go into simpler language, just to reiterate a few things, but yes, I can change things now. I mostly wanted to give everyone a baseline idea of how trauma affected things, before I went on to other things. I'll just skip over the advanced stuff." She'd respond in a low tone too, before clearing her throat, and addressing the students once more. "With the basics out of the way, let us focus on something that should be near and dear to many of you: Cutie Marks. An important milestone for many young ponies to get, such as yourself, but something that can take time for some. ANd what I were talking about, is related to that in some fashion. Trauma is everywhere these days. It's been tough years, as you all know. That also affects cutie marks. See the cutie mark is an expression of something inside of you, as I am sure Miss Gypsum have told you. When you are in turmoil though, if for instance you have had to be part of a war, or suffer the loss of your loved ones, getting a mark can get harder. Some can even resent their marks, as they show after a traumatic event. I have been a therapist for quite a long time now. I have seen how trauma of all kinds can stifle the growth of a mark, or even cause it to change. Sometimes a foal will not be able to get a cutie mark easily, as they feel they don't deserve it, and if that thought is ingrained enough, it can affect your growth. Others do get theirs, but try to hide it, as they are told that it isn't good enough. In turn, making the foals feel like they aren't good enough either. Which in rare cases, can be so severe, that the marks change, or even vanish entirely. For some, trauma is what triggers their mark, and shows their true colors, as it were. It can be from defending one you care about for instance. Others have gotten their marks after abuse, and the mark represents their inner strength helping them break through. Others still have suffered, and their marks shows their resilience, or in some cases, their desire for setting things right. Trauma induced cutie marks used to be a rare thing, but they are never any less valid, than a cutie mark gotten from trying various things. For some, the trauma is the exact thing that unlocks their potential, and thus without the trauma, they might never have gotten the mark. I never hope for that for anyone, but if you end up being in that situation, please remember that you are equal, valid, and loved, no matter what your mark is, or how you got it. I also have talked with some over the years, that due to trauma, fears they might never get a cutie mark. I would want you to know that it isn't true. It might take longer, yes. Some will grow to be decades old even, before they get their marks. But every pony have it in them, to get a mark,. Be it as simple as a spoon and a bowl, or an intricate painting. You aren't broken, just because you don't have a mark, whilst it feels like everyone around you might. You just haven't bloomed yet." She'd use the blackboard to draw a few simple explanations to things, via a visual aid. One of them basically boiled down to how a peaceful mind, were more open to possibilities, and thus you could focus on things, that would help you. She also showed how bad emotions or trauma, lowered things, and that gave you less energy and focus to try stuff. Hence a lesser chance of getting your mark. Using a drawing of a pony with some percentage of it filled, and some situations happening around them, seemed a good enough way to simplify it. The topic were honestly very complex, if she had to explain all of it fully, so that would have to be for something a good deal of classes above this current setting. She'd then go on to give some examples on cutie mark hunting. Starting by drawing a small filly, and then follow it up as they would go along. "Let us pretend this little pony is called Stellar. Stellar is a young filly, who wants to get her cutie mark. So she starts off thinking about what sort of things she likes to do normally. Let us say that she likes to draw. That haven't given her her mark, so instead she tries things related to it. Painting, then taking pictures. Eventually she wants to try other things, and so goes with music instruments, as it could be something creative. This is the sort of way most foals tend to go at figuring out themselves, and thus find their cutie marks. I can perhaps make some suggestions of things you can try in Troy, if anyone would like that? It isn't unusual to get inspiration for your cutie mark hunt, by getting inspired by those around you."

@Props Valroa (Spectra) Yuma still had plenty to say, but her voice would die out to a whisper after a half minute more of complaining and vitriol. A time would likely come within the next few days or so, when she were more in tune, when she'd have more energy to work with, but things were still settling for the former sole occupant of this vessel. She might just be an intertwined soul at this point, but the whole process had still taken its toll. More on her than Spectra in fact, as she were not intended to end up like this, and thus the process had to be tweaked slightly to not cause both of them to die. Though considering what they were about to witness, she might be happy that she could at least not see anything yet. It were quite the disturbing sight to behold. The zebra would not be happy to explain, and yet it wasn't as if he could avoid it. Not after they had seen through it, and hadn't ended up another victim to the pile. So he told what he could to her, what little he knew. Which surprisingly wasn't a lot. This place were set up when the town were originally settled, by zebras that followed someone whose name he didn't know. It had more or less been forgotten now, but they knew the settlers had arrived here because of the unnamed being. It were because of them, that they had become practitioners of heretic magics, that were taboo in Zebrica, and highly illegal in Equestria too. Hence the area being hidden by strange magics, that meant that no one could see it, unless one from the village were there. If he hadn't been with them, they'd be as blind as to the true nature of the area as any other, even if they'd wander across the area, unless they were suddenly, violently snapped into that place. He did not understand how, as he wasn't high enough in the food chain for such things. And speaking of food chain... He would not be thrilled to say it, but yes, the town practiced ritualistic cannibalism on outsiders, and traitors. He for instance, would not be able to return now, as he had led them out to safety, as well as leaving the town behind, without becoming part of the pile. If he managed to get to Ponyville, he'd be safe, but this close to town, they might still try and hunt him down. Or they'd simply make sure that he could no longer access the area they had seen, in case they ratted him out. As for the practices of the town, he only knew that it used to be a lot more involved, and darker than now, but that something had happened generations ago. Something to whomever had run things, and without them, the others had settled down, waited, and practiced what they were able, with some changes over the years, as the meaning of it all started to get lost to them. They would have a lot more knowledge of what were happening here, if they got hold of one of their elders, or better yet, The Wild Witch. Some defector out of the wild somewhere, keeping hidden from them, that had turned her back on their town and practices. Though he would also say that she might just be a faerie tale, to scare them off leaving the safety of their town and community. In any case, he had his breath back, and they were going on their way, so he'd bow, then get saddled up and start rushing off again. he had a long way to go still, before he felt safe. Maybe he'd get caught and questioned eventually, but he technically hadn't done anything, and knew much too little to be of any real help to any investigator, even if he wasn't too worried about actually talking details about the island, and them having gone there. If at some point he'd end up spilling the beans, they'd likely both long since gotten to Troy. "...So what? You think we get to Troy, and everything will be fine? They will be none too happy about your presence there, if they knew even a fraction of your true nature." Operata had been quiet for a while. Even after they had left the zebra behind, he would have remained quiet, and just done his to help with the boat if needed, but otherwise look away from her, burrie3d in his own thoughts. His voice were not snarky and pointed though, as often were his want. He sounded like he'd given up, and struggled to find hope or meaning enough to even attempt to pretend he were doing okay. A lot of things were happening, and all of them took parts from him. Including one important part, that he had once thought lost, and now hurt more than before, because he had gotten the hope of getting that back. One step forward, and fifteen back. That is how it felt the last week or so, with the last few days just escalating it further. ============================================================================== (Spoiled Rich) The lawyer nearly jumped out of his good skin as he heard that all too familiar voice, and turned to look at Spoiled Rich. Going on a tangent, and making him baffled for a few seconds, before he'd correct his posture, and get a more serious, professional look in his eyes. A stark contrast to her, whom he had never seen more unkempt, but if her words held any sort of truth, then it were understandable that her personal routine had been impacted quite a lot. Yet still, they would have to test that. "*clears throat* Madame Rich. It is as always a pleasure to see you. I'd love nothing more than to begin with correcting things, but there is an important matter we must handle first." He'd go over to his desk, and pull out a small, reinforced box from the drawer. One he'd then pull a key out from his inner pocket to open. Opening the box, would reveal an engraved, silver coin, with an elongated, jagged gemstone, inserted into the middle. The coin had the name of his law firm on the edges, and the gem itself seemed to glow a pale blue, when Legal Jargon - the lawyer in question - held it near him. He'd then turn the box around, and put it on the desk, as he stood behind it. The gemstone growing slight orange in the meantime. "As per protocol, madame." It weren't unheard of, for others to kidnap a royal, then come back at a later date, and claim they were them. That usually meant changelings. As such, the wise had to take some precautions, and he were one of the rare lucky ones, that had managed to get hold of a small sliver of an extremely rare gemstone, that tended to be called *Snitches*, since it reacted cloaking magic. Especially that of changelings. So if this were a fraud of their kind, he'd know of it. If not, it left the option for another to still just pretend to be them, but this were a start. The second being that she also had to utter the correct code phrase, as she held the coin. One she had agreed on, back when he took her on as his primary client. The codeword were "Avacado". Pronounced incorrectly deliberately. If she held the stone and said the phrase proper, Jargon's face would light up, and he'd actually smile properly, and let out a sigh of relief. "Oh thank the princesses, it really is you. I hope you can forgive me for saying this Madame Rich, but know that I truly, genuinely missed you, and worried a lot about what had happened to you. I cannot express enough how joyous it is to have you back again. I will of course assist you in ensuring your business are in order. I assume you would want to know of your estate, yes? Your home is sadly correctly gone, burned to the ground when you vanished. The grounds however, are still your property, and you need only say the word, and I will ensure that Quartz Constructions are brought in to begin building a new home for you, as soon as possible. One that matches your expectations and demands, of course. Your money are still secure though. Beyond my salary, and the severance that had to be made out for your staff after the fire, your money have been kept in check, and your investments monitored. Several of them having paid off well in recent years, and others that I managed as per my usual orders. You will find that there are plenty to make a new home now, with a surplus exceeding what you had before you went missing. We just need to visit various places and have paperwork filled, to ensure you are properly reinstated into society, to null the upcoming date of you being declared legally dead. I have the paperwork ready if you will us to proceed with this first, Madame Rich?" He honestly were happy to have her back. Sure dealing with nobles could be troubling at times, but he much preferred working for one he knew how to work for, and - in his opinion at least - got well enough along with, compared to trying to start over fresh with somepony far too arrogant to even look at him while speaking business. And yes, he knew of several like those, and their lawyers looked miserable. ====================================================================== (Treasure) Shade had done what he had to in Canterlot, and had afterwards gone to the secure cabin, some distance from the capitol. Phantasma would show up about half an hour later, alone and waltzing in with a smirk on her face. "Started without me?" "No. I have just spread it out around the table for now, for inspection. Remember that we are supposed to find information first and foremost. Not calculate what things are worth." "I am well aware of our priorities here. Calm yourself, Shade. Or would you prefer Soul Prison?" "Knowing part of my real name isn't going to unnerve me, Phantasma. Or should I just call you Lakeside Dew?" She'd wrinkle her nose over that. "My birth name is hardly important." "Nor is my real name right now. The job is." "You say that, but at the same time, you hide everything. It is rather suspicious, but really, look who I am talking to." "Others can stay out of my private life. You I am just surprised did not find out before now. You're rather noisy." "I knew you had some sort of connection to Mausoleum, and that you had a false alias, but I still couldn't find more. For a time I thought you might be her secret husband, until I found the marriage certificate, and found out it were Operata instead. You are still a mystery. Or were, before your cousin started to share a few stories." "I am still not unnerved. As much as I despise your falseness, I actually do respect your tenacity in finding information. I haven't been actively trying to cover my trail five times over. I've been waiting for you to pick it up, and then begin digging. I were always curious what you'd do, once you learned the truth. It will be interesting to see." "So your turn to dig more into my past then, hmm?" "No. I know enough, and don't have to dig into more. It would just be respectless and gratuitous. Now shall we get to work?" The first thing they'd have to examine, were the large painting. Seemed as good a place as any to start, yes?