Blitz Boom

@Kujamih @Loud Opinion

I ignored both suggestions, and gave her another name. Muahahaha.

Was a fun little thing though. Also, I have now set some very bad things in motion. I hope you don't mind a little trouble.

============================================================

@Starforce

Dunno. Right after she beat him, I suppose? Getting the fighting over with.

Operata fights via music, empowering his cats. usually they do well in attacking and protecting him, but if you get them say, stuck to a wall, and then beat the tar out of him, he won't be able to react on it quick enough. Just again, please no cat murder.

Also, she could just grab them both, and tell him to surrender instantly, or she'd make herself a new pair of mittens. He'd like her way less, but he'd surrender. His cats are his everything.

@Loud Opinion @Kujamih

"Shark... Eag- Yeer... Jäääää-ger? Shark Jäger?"

Shark couldn't get the word that Light had said, to sit right in her mouth. It sounded odd, and not something she could connect to something. Pony names had meaning, so she needed one too, yes?

Jäger were one that was rough in her mind, as Anomaly hadn't implanted many words beyond the regular, common tongue ones, that ponies tended to speak. But a few had slipped through, from her vault of *words she thought sounded funny*. And this Germane word for hunter, were one of those. It sounded somewhat like what Light had said, and had a meaning that made sense to her. She were a shark, and a hunter. She had to be, since she needed to eat, so that made sense.

"Yes! Is Shark Jäger. Now I have names, like friends do. Shark Strider sound good too, but Jäger fit. I am hunter. Great, great hunter too. Can catch all food.

And you... Liiii-mbooo. Limbo. Limbo Dreams... Dream is for sleep. You sleep much, friend?"

She tried applying the same logic to Limbo, when she were told the mare's name, and so far, it were just leading her to think that Limbo slept a lot. Something she herself, were not all that used to be able to do all that much yet. Though she were enjoying this new life for that reason too. She could sleep in peace, at the bottom of rivers, where no thing were larger than her, that'd try to hunt her. She had only met 2 predators larger than her in the waters around here, and they were friendly. She did not fear those.

"I like sleep. Small dangers here, so it is sa- *sniff* *sniff*"

She'd suddenly stop, and jump quickly into the bush next to them. She'd then come out with something that looked kind of like a frog, crossed with a goblin. It's massive maw having many teeth, and a barbed tongue, it were trying to shoot towards them, as it let out feral growls.

"Is frog! Frog is food."

Shark were happy about this find. She thought she had hunted them all down, like Anomaly had asked her to do. But seemed like some where still left. As for this one, that were about half the size of her, she'd tear apart, and chomp down, like the happy little predator that she were. Which were a good thing. These things were quick growing, quick to reproduce, and were highly dangerous. Seemed like she yet had a hunt to go on.

Cause this wasn't one she missed before. They grew to maturity within hours, and this one were the size of a recently hatched. And if they listened well, they'd be able to hear the distant sound, of a large, deep croak. Far to notable to be from a regular frog.

As for the two of them arguing... She'd get to that. For now though, she were eating. She were also however, completely unaware of how ponies tended to view this kind of food consumption.

==========================================================================================

@Starforce

"Death is inevitable, but it pleases me to hear that you did not meet it so early in your life. Quite a close call by the looks of things though. The ancestors must have smiled upon you that day."

A grizzly wound, no pun intended. Really spoke of the brutality of nature, regardless how innocent and beautiful it seemed to be, for so many. This one had been lucky, but she had meet many who weren't so fortunate. And as violent deaths were a big reason for some to get stuck in this world, a fair amount of ghosts came from violent animal attacks. The more sudden and brutal, the more likely to have caused a trauma, that made it hard to accept you had died.

"And I can assure you, that Elysium and Tartarus, are very real. We have gotten few, yet important glimpses into those realms, and heed my words: You do not wish to become the kind of soul, who ends in Tartarus. I know you have heard of the imprisonment of those such as Tirek there, but that part is little more than a waiting room, or a naughty corner. The true Tartarus is beyond words, in all the worst ways one can imagine. I would not wish that place upon anyone. Much as some may deserve it.

I hope that few gets send there too, but as said, the reapers deal with the souls when it comes to the lands beyond. All we can do is to help them see clearly. What happens next, only they control. If they even have agency, and does not simply follow orders themselves."

Whilst they had talked, Zeehva had set up the stand, and were putting first the potions that had been made on the table, then the cauldron set up, and prepared to deal in more potions. She didn't look happy still, but the tears had stopped running, and she were preparing to work, so she were doing her outmost to at least be productive.

=======================================================================

@EQ_Theta

17 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“We will always appreciate your help, and I’m sure Elder Ghilan already sees you as someone trustworthy. The folks back home need to see some positive influences if they are to be convinced. You stood by us, and we will vouch for you when asked. To us, you and Omen are good examples that not everyone from the outside is as bad as they think.”

"Kind words. I hope I can live up to them, as well as the trust you've put in me. For what it is worth, I trust all of you too. I would not have gotten to this place without you, and I feel fortunate to have run into you all. Even the nose biter."

He were referring to Shrimp there at the end, who had gone back to take another nap. He'd get awake when he wanted to, or when it were food time. Or when he were thirsty, or wanted to play. Right now though, he just wanted to nap. It had been some long days recently in his mind, and he didn't want to be mixed up into all of it constantly. That was for the tall creatures, not him.

16 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“So, ready for a sample? Some may say this method of easing pain sounds like inflicting more pain, but I don’t intend to cause harm. The goal is to make you feel good, and I aim to make sure you feel better. Omen? You want to get a massage too?” 

Massage does tend to include some degree of pain, if the muscles are not loosened enough to begin with. Such is the process, and I'd be intrigued to try your method."

Rosa would lay down on the carpet, and prepare himself for the treatment. An action which Omen would follow troop with, though she didn't really understand why yet.

The two would have different reactions to the massage.

Rosa would have pretty tightened up muscles. Constant training, stress, and needing to be sharp, left him to be rather hard in several places, in his musculature. So it'd hurt on him. He'd keep the worst in, but the occasional groan would escape him. It would ease up after some time, but there were a lot to work with.

Omen on the other hoof, didn't sy a peep. Her musculature were pretty weird too. She were built with nerves and muscles of a pony, so it wasn't like, piano strings that kept her moving, so that was familiar at least. But she wouldn't have any sort of tightening to work on. It seemed that even after several thousand years, and never having this done on her before, she wasn't suffering under the sort of stress that tended to cause aching muscles. Her taking it easy in how she moved, and not getting tensed up, as she had no need for that, likely helped too.

Although if he pressed at the bottom of her spine, right above her flank, she'd blow purple bubbles out of her mouth, smelling like lavender. Hitting the area more and more, would give the same result, just with varied amounts and sizes of bubbles. Another *design flaw*, as Discord had called it, more than likely.

======================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

"For ponies, *bigger creatures* usually refer to minotaurs, and dragons the size of Leviathan. Dragons of your regular, impressive stature, are beyond their capacity to make a cart for. I have seen some boats that might, but that is another topic, I suppose.

As for the sturdiness, it does need to hold a certain balance. If they make it too thick and sturdy, it becomes too heavy to move with any speed. Too flimsy, and it starts falling apart. It is a balancing act, though they have hit so for most creatures. Minotaurs hitting it fit with a fist, tend to just dent it."

He'd watch the hole that had been left by Charir, with a tentative look, thinking for a moment on how to explain this then.

"...If anyone are so inclined to ask, that hole came after you heard something hit the train outside. I'd rather not get into longer questions from them, regarding who might have vandalized this. They should be able to fix it fairly easily, but do please ask your brother to refrain from doing that further. I'm sure he were just curious, but if they come and say, see that the entire wall have been cut up, it will begin to raise questions, and involve the law. It's best to avoid that, in my opinion."

"Does that have something to do with your feeling of being watched? Think the law's after you?"

Leviathan was just gonna push this button. She were sure they all wanted to know. Minus probably Charir, who likely couldn't give a flying rat about this. If she had to pop the first attempt at it, she'd happily do so. They needed something to do on the trip anyway, beyond just looking out of the window, and watching the forest and plains stretch out before them. A beautiful sight, but for one, it would get boring for Leviathan fairly quickly. And secondly, Charir were there, so he was the only one getting a good look at nature in all it's beauty. Including various animals flocking about, in the more open plains here and there. A flock of boars being the most prominent.

"...In an case, how are thinking we should proceed, once we get back to my employer?"

He'd attempt just ignoring this topic for now, and see if it would be honored. Or if they would use the isolation of this cart being far away from the others, to shake it out of him. Potentially in a litteral sense.

====================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-12-05 at 12:50 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Scarecrow was surprised to hear this, he knew ponies weren't the always friendly perfect creatures as many believed, but something like that sounded quite non-pony like, though then again, it may have just been the past, after all, non-ponies being openly allowed among ponies was relatively new thing as far as he had heard, though then again, as far as he knew, he could have heard it yesterday or millennia ago. He didn't have much reaction to the animal argument happening partly on top of him, mainly because Lyriel was there, he knew she would deal  with it. 

That aside, it seemed it was time to act a bit again "I....don't know." since he had hard time with expressions still, he faked emotion with his tone and things like pauses "or more accurately, don't remember." "Long story short, I may have hit my head or something, I... my memory has been bit hazy lately." "But I haven't seen others of my kind, so I may be the only one around." 

"You are not. I have heard of one other, from the animals. Yet they have little idea where he is now, sadly.

And it is as he says, I'm afraid. Scarecrow suffers from a large memory loss, and know little of even his own kind's history. To him, what you just said, are as news. Might I please ask that you elaborate? It sounds so out of character for the ponies I have met."

"Oh, my sincere apologies. Please follow me. I shall brief you on the history. Perhaps it might bring back some memories."

He'd guide them to follow him towards the back room. IN there, sat the tools of his trade, amongst many a mannequin. Half finished creations taking form, amongst needles and cloth in many shapes and sized, and papers showing off his drawings of dresses and other clothes. Flamboyant and gaudy to some, but Rarity had a solid hoof in controlling the market for simple, yet elegant, and as a bearer, most would wander to shop with her, over others. So he had to carve his niche in extravagance, to allow himself to have a clientele as well. He did less brazen things too, but he primarily made things for the more outlandish requests. A fair few from Pinkie Pie. That chicken costume were a particularly curious one, but she had insisted, and he could not simply turn away a costumer.

He'd direct them to a table, and would get some cups and a pot of tea preparing. It could warm as he talked.

"As said, the story is not kind.

The evergrown first appeared 600 years ago, wandering from the wilds of the south. Before them, there laid a vast desert, that suddenly bloomed into thick, lush jungle overnight. We know not if the jungle came first, and they arose from that, or if they somehow caused it. If they knew, they did not tell, but I think they knew as little as we did.

Regardless, they came with friendly intentions, towards Equestria. They thought this land a good one to be first, as our land were thriving with magic, in where they could plant seeds from their sacred trees, and take some residency, where they were allowed it. And as a new, curious race, they sought knowledge and cooperation. Both of which Princess Celestia offered them with a smile, and open hooves.

At first, most were simply intrigued and friendly. Curious especially, when it came to be known, that your blood, were an essence that could turbo-grow plants. A kind of hyper-effective fertilizer, I have heard it described as. As your kind had little to offer, but much to want, they offered vials of this essence to Equestria, in exchange for goods, books, and other things of interest. It could be harvested safely from them, as blood can from a pony, long as the dosage is small enough.

*sigh* But there were those, such as my ancestors, who had changing attitudes. They wanted this essence for their fields, and did not much care that it could only be gained in smaller, safe amounts. Nor that the evergrown were deserving of the kindness and respect any other living creature deserved. They thought of them just as odd plants, that had something they wanted.

Evergrown began going missing, and investigations were done by both parties. Sadly it were the evergrown who found the truth, as one had escaped a farm where several of their kind had been captured, strapped down, and drained to the last drop. The lifeless husk then burned amongst the garden trash.

As you can imagine, there were an outrage from them. They had come with friendly intentions, but were then killed and discarded like trash. Their leaders denounced the ponies as not wanting friendship, but just being led by greed and malice, and retreated to their magical trees. The areas wherein they were, were shrouded in thick magic, and much as others have looked to find them, for the past six hundred years, very few have ever been spoken off being anywhere else, and often vanish soon after the claims are made. Likely returning to their village."

"That's... That's revolting! How could anyone do such a thing, towards innocent creatures? They were willing already, to share what were wanted. And I cannot imagine the price being too steep."

"Their elders were not wrong. It were indeed actions, lead by indifference and greed.

Princess Celestia were furious. She condemned the act, and had all who had partaken in this unforgiving act, severely punished. But the damage was done. The evergrown had seen the dark side of equines, and as a new, flourishing race, they had not the luxury, or experience, to think that this were not just an act, to lure more of them in for the harvest. They had to think of their own. And as Equestria were the first they had reached out to, to try and gain allies amongst a more established, knowledgeable race, I think they - understandably so - feared what might happen, if they reached out to others. And as such, they retreated, and went to establish themselves in unseen places.

I'm sorry the beginning of your races tale, is not kinder than this, Scarecrow. Though this is likely generations before your time, I can imagine the stories of the outside, still weighs heavy upon your society. Though I do wish there will come a time, when you will try once more."

==================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-12-05 at 12:50 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"It is indeed interesting to hear the similarities, though, there's one big difference, we don't have queens, or any type of rulers in that matter, every decision is made together, more specifically, between those affected by said decision." ideal system as far as they were concerned, but they were aware that it was pretty much impossible to get working for any species that lacked their kind of community focused mindset.

"An understandable distinction in leadership, I suppose. For us changelings, we would perish in that matter.

A queen is not just the leader of a hive. We are the only ones who can lay eggs, and as such, a hive lives and dies by its queen. And even beyond that, the drones needs leadership. As much as ponies imagine that we have a hivemind, it is not so. We are not a shared mind. The drones simply understand what their queens want, because we live so closely, and they are used to our orders. We ensure that there is order in the hive, and that mouthes are fed. We are mothers, providers, and leaders.

This... Thing, I have become. Came about when I learned I failed the second. I could not sate their hunger enough. And for my hive, I will endure this ridiculous transformation, as a real queen should. One of many things Chrysalis failed to understand.

But I digress. Kobolds have similarities with changelings, yet you are more together than us. That much I can assure you. Not every hive, would come to the defense of another, nor welcome just any member of another into their hives. Resources can be scarce, and if so, a queen must spend that on her own children first, before that of another hive. Cruel I suppose, yet survival can be at times. I can imagine you would know that all too well."

She had briefly gone on a tangent, but much as she were an immoral being, from the perspective of ponies, Onache were but a dedicated queen. And the thoughts of how she failed her duties, by sticking to the old ways, had left a bitter taste in her mouth, that had yet to clear. So as the subject went near it, she had vented a little, of the frustration that lured within her mind.

She were still intrigued but what she heard though, from the siblings. Their societies had clear differences, yet there were a fair few things they had a common too. Such a peculiar thing to find out, yet one that did help her feel somewhat more connected to these smaller beings. How curious a feeling that were, considering her initial expectations about this cooperation.

On 2021-12-05 at 12:50 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

They would seek out a place to sit in the inn, curious about a group that had gathered around a single table, seemingly to look at something, there was a female voice coming from middle of the group "...speaking of interesting individuals, I met these kobolds from the sea, they had gills and fins, can't say I had ever met someone like them before, they had lot of stories to tell, but this one really stuck with me..." there then was a sound of guitar and the voice started to sing (something like this but in 3rd person.). as the singer got more into the song, her head came to view as she presumably jumped on the table, it was a purple head of either a kobold or a dragon, hard to tell from only the head, but one could probably guess from the reaction of Sheska and Trox, as the both looked at her in surprise "Is that?..." "Chega?" the singer also spotted them and seemed surprised, but she didn't cut the song short, and thus had no further reaction yet. 

Now this were something special. Another kobold. And... Did they know this one? It seemed like it, though maybe it were but a kobold word... She would need to observe and see how this went on, after the song had finished. Something told here there would be much information, but she would learn the most, by not saying more. Simply listen in for now, and witness what might come of this.

@Starforce

Whoops, missed this. I uhm... Dunno. Your idea, your thread title. You can see from this one that I'm not good at naming threads.

Just poke me when everything's ready for me to pop in.

As for how he'd have known of her, Operata is technically working for a consortium of sorts, where he helps deal with troublemakers, and in exchange, they help keep him out of prison. They probably heard some rumors about this area, and some disappearances, and sent him to investigate.

==================================================================

@Loud Opinion

Eh, it's fine.   Sometimes, the natural way of one to react is by annoyance, and Shark isn't helping things.

@Illiad Easle

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

She sighed, "You know how I feel about him, and this... calls a lot of it into question. I don't know how to feel about it all. Still, he has something of mine, or more likely my father's, and I best take it back before it can be used improperly. Plus... I've got to make sure he isn't about to unleash an even worse horror on Equis."

She looked back up at Void, "It'll probably take me a bit to sort all this out. I'll come by as often as I can in the meantime. Take good care of them while I deal with this, alright?"

"O-Of course. Take all the time you need. I'll let them know you're dealing with a personal matter, if they start to ask."

It had looked a little dicey for a time there, but it seemed like things had gone as well as could be. Vale did not look as if she wanted to slowly peel Molotov apart, layer by layer, so he might be able to survive their encounter. Long as he didn't say something stupid, so... That was a little harder to swallow. Hopefully he'd be alright though. They could probably use him for something, and she'd kinda miss him. Sure he was a little uhm... Him, but it weren't many faces from the past that were left. One should tresure the few that remained.

She'd look concerned as Vale took off, but did not try and stop her. Afterwards, she'd wait until the ones who looked after the foals during the night would be ready, before making her way home to hher family. She were sure that her parents, her sister, and Arcade, had a lot to talk about up until now, but she had questions too, to all of them.

*sigh* It were going to be a long night.

(in case Vale usually keep them under watch during the night, Void would do so now. I assumed there were guards)

(Molotov)

Molotov would've situated himself in the old research station, that the Consul had directed him to, and where he had made the data cube. It had the materials, and a roof over his head, so it'd function as a good place for him to work for the time being. With how much he had to atone for, he needed to be able to build something, long as he were able.

Vale would find that standing up high, there would be two pair of griffon eyes looking down upon her in silence. One pair being the one she had *sparred* with before, who'd not remove her steel gaze from the doe at first. Yet for some reason, both of them would retract, and seemingly signal that they were staying out of this. Just as the door opened, and a semi-depressed, tired looking Molotov came wandering out.

He had taken a nap, after whatever the consul had done to him wore off, but it hadn't gotten him fully up top. Enough to get to work on a few things though.

Behind him, yet quickly skittering over to his side, were the large, metallic spider, Felicia. And riding her abdomen, her much smaller, elder sister, Carmen. Though Molotov would hold a hoof out to stop Felicia from moving forward. Which she absolutely could still do, but she'd halt. For now.

"Guess it had to come to this. Dd what you feel you must. I won't be resisting this time. Just... Please make it quick. I don't want my girls to get scarred over this."

"ℂ𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕠𝕣, 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕓𝕒𝕔𝕜 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥."

Felicia wandered more forth, but Molotov would step out in front of her, and put a hoof on her shiny, metallic head. A loving pat, that caused her to pause, though she could still easily sweep the pony aside.

"Felicia. You've always been a smart girl. More than I gave ya credit for at first. You understand that actions have consequences, and I've been part of something bad here. Whatever happens, this here's my consequence.

Take care of Carmen, alright?"

He'd take a step forth, whilst Felicia cautiously took one back. She might still charge in, to protect her creator, despite his words, but... She needed to mull over this for a few cycles.

As for Molotov, he stood ready now. A little cringed and tense, expecting some kind of harpoon to be trusted into his larynx, but... If that's what she felt like she had the right to, that was her right. Though he were hoping she would've given him a chance to do some good instead.

Vale would also find however, that Carmen were not as willing to stand back, and would rush over, as quickly as her legs could carry her, and crawl up Molotov. She dodged his attempts at grabbing her with his horn, and would go up on his head, and look right at Vale.

"Please. No hurt. No hurt."

Quite honestly, they were blowing this way of proportions, from Molotov thinking he'd get killed in retaliation. Good on the lot of 'em for making this a lot more awkward than it had to be.

(Changelings)

"Huh... That's it? Sounds like regular life, but on a larger scale.

We've been in the public eye, and under a lot of scrutiny since we first opened up and went public. Right after the announcement about Thorax. Might be it were legal for us to be open, but folks still had a lot of mistrust, so we had constant *surprise* inspectors, public pressure against our presence, and stories swirling everywhere. Whenever as much as a cat went missing for an hour, we'd be questioned, and the theater ransacked. So I'm used to the whole show of the lies and attempts at finding stuff to nail us down with, as well as how to educate others about us, so they know we're not monsters to be feared.

We'll have to figure something out about those who'd come in with an attitude of wanting to hurt us though. Back then, we just confused them with illusions and such, and the authorities dealt with them.  We got more numbers now,  and less authorities to go with now though, so we'll need to think about that for sure. Bruce? Do you think you can suggest some guards, and help them learn the ropes, just in case?"

"If you wish it, your majesty."

"Thanks. We'll compile a list later, and go over it.

About the bigger influx of other changelings we'd get, I'm hoping this will make the more solitary ones pop out of the woodworks, actually. I'll welcome all, and try to help them best I can, just like we've always done. Might be we can't hire them here, but I know some beings around town to chat with, and now we'll have the old theater as a more dedicated shelter, where we can put in some actual resources. It'll be nice not being reliant on the occasional donation, and small contribution from I dunno who, of the higher ups in town. It's always been appreciated of course, but it isn't reliable."

@Sekel @Kujamih

On 2021-12-03 at 2:01 AM, Widdershins said:

The young drake was taken aback. Wordlessly accepting both the candied gift and the elder couple's advice left him weak for a response. Indirectly during the conversation, he stammered in a smaller than normal tone. "It's just... all new. I'm a dragon. We don't get along well with others."

Questions filled his head that were too much and embarrassing to have time to articulate into a response. Such thoughts were badly dashed as Dazzle and Long Stare entered into the store's room to much surprise. Having been jarred out of a funk of thought and derailed, the bronzed sunset colored dragon stood with blank expression of detached puzzlement sitting back on his haunches and one claw still upraised holding the candy pouch staring at Dazzle as she talked.

"Don't let the traditionalists back home fool you into thinking otherwise. Even if there's not a lot of couples between our kinds, there's more of us getting along with them than you think."

Benny would try and be a little uplifting here. It seemed like Kaltrops had his guards dropped a little now, and draconic pride were a fickle thing. It might make him suddenly put up his barriers, to not seem weak, rather than keep going. Trying to be supportive helped sometimes. He knew that from experience, though he wasn't the best to judge by really. He were less prideful than your average dragon, so not everything would work as well on others, as on him. Worth a shot though, right?

On 2021-12-03 at 2:01 AM, Widdershins said:

Egotistical as Kaltrop tended to be, anything pony-shaped was pony. If it was dragon shaped, then it was worth thinking more about. Usually how to best pose to frighten them off; Kal wasn't the best at fighting when it came to it. The new "pony" had mentioned only two subjects he cared to comment on: an "action" involving two members & showing off one's breath weapon. Clearly, he could let his guard down now and talk about what he did know, fighting ability. Without much tact and confidence bluntly returning to his voice, he loudly commented to the room at large.

 "Of course, we can do it. We do it all the time. Why me and Dawn here were doing it out in the middle of the street the other day...."

 He paused to idly inspect the pouch and try cautiously opening it with his other claw, unaware of what "It" he was referring to.

 "I'm quite good at it. This mare won't keep her hooves off me."

Throughout what Kaltrops were saying, Pop had a hoof risen in front of her muzzle, and chuckled slightly, with a still obvious smile on her face. It were pretty clear to her that the dragon had no idea what were being said, but as she did, this were just golden comedy for her. Especially with Dawn's reaction behind him, as she got extremely flustered over what he were brazenly popping off. She were lucky nopony were nearby enough to hear it. If there had been, they would've have something funny to tell their friends about later.

Benny on the other hoof, had both his gauzed hands up around of his mouth, clamping down to prevent the laughter from escaping. He was doing a poor job of the other effects though, as he went down to his knees, then the ground, with muffled sounds coming out of his mouth. Though seeing as he were having tears coming out of his eyes, and seemed to be a free hand away from hammering one of those into the ground, and going into a fit of out-of-breath-laughing, it wasn't going well.

On 2021-12-03 at 8:51 AM, Sekel said:

"KALTROPS! SHUSH!" Dawn cried in embarrassment for the dragon as well as herself, her face turning much redder than her fur was coloured. She had no idea if he was doing it on purpose or not but the way he said made it seem like he was toying with them. "W-W-WE NEVER HAVE UH ...." she trailed off and simply hid behind Kaltrops as best she could.

"I believe you, but I don't think he knos what he's saying right now. Hey Kaltrops? Lend me an ear for a moment."

Pop would wander closer, and giggle ever so slightly. Oh, this were going to be perfect.

Once she were close enough, she'd lean in, and whisper into his ear what it were they were talking about. It were going to be priceless to hear his next words, after he got some context to what he had been saying, and why they were laughing, whilst Dawn were nearly blushing into a tomato.

On 2021-12-03 at 8:51 AM, Sekel said:

Meanwhile, Dazzle stared at the shop when she heard the cries and merely shrugged to herself. She looked at Benny and nodded. "We're outside, so I can show you but I don't think you want to stand too close to me," she smiled at him. When she was certain the dragon had taken some steps away, a blue light traced the scales under her fur. Electricity built up in the air and Dazzle tilted her head up to let out her lightning breath, zapping the air all the way up into the clouds before shutting her jaws to stop any more lightning from escaping her.

(getting confused by placement now. Will go on the assumption the rest is inside, whilst Benny is in the doorway, and Stare and Dazzle outside. Please correct me, if wrong)

Benny's eyes lit up as he saw the electric breath, like a foal watching fireworks. It'd draw some attention from nearby pegasi especially, as they thought there were a stray thunder cloud, but nothing would seem to be there when they arrived. It'd cause some confusion, and talk around town later. Nothing that'd go back and hurt any of them though, likely. Just another weird little bloop on the Ponyville radar.

"Ooooh. That's very pretty. Y'know, I'm not that old, but you're still only the second dragon I've seen being able to do this. And the other one's way older than you. And a pure dragon, but y'know, that probably doesn't matter.

Do you know if this is biological, or magical? Y'know, with us dragons having the biological fire breath, and then some with magic properties pumping that one up. Just wondering if this is a natural thing, or magical. Because if it's the latter, you could probably end up doing all sorts of wind and electric related stuff."

While all this went on, Stare just stood about, near Dazzle, and observed. Thus far, it didn't seem like she were really needed anywhere, so she went into her habit of just laying low.

=======================================================================

@Sekel

Anomaly would swivel around as she heard the sound, and the two oddities would refocus from one another, to their guests as well.

"Oh, just siblings fighting. Kids sometimes, right?

Now both of you behave in front of our guests.

Anyway, you met Rose. She's my oldest. Got her when I lost a kidney down at some harbor a few years back, and it mutated into her. Heh, silly hook accident. Anyway, Henry here's my youngest. He's about... Three months old. Lost an ear somewhere, and things went a little bonkers, hehe. Don't mind him being a big guy. He's really gentle, when him and Rose isn't fighting."

"ⱧɆⱠⱠØ, ₲ɄɆ₴₮."

"...I'm waaaay too sober for this, but alright. Hello there, big guy. Wanna bump?"

Happy would raise a hoof up for a fist bump, then watched as Henry cautiously clutched his meaty, left hand into a fist, and carefully bumped it against said hoof. Seems like he got the greeting alright, so there were some culture going on in this household.

====================================================================

@Sekel @Zoom Jetstream

"Ooooh, yes I can! But not in here. Nononono. Mayor Mare doesn't like it when there's kaboomies in town. Gotta go to my workshop. It's in the forest. That way!"

She'd point in a direction towards the Everfree, at which point, Enzo would let the filly go on top of his back with the others, and begin to wander that way. It seemed as interesting a thing to do as any now, and he figured it best he did not overstay his welcome for now. He had plenty of time to come back to this town later.

As for Blitz, she would have just been let go off, when she'd rush straight over to Atzy, and gave the gemling a massive hug.

"Hehe. You feel like a giant beetle. With sparkly bits."

In case Atzy could still feel out emotions, despite not needing to feed on them, she'd feel a great amount of joy and love, radiating from Blitz. Though even if she couldn't, just looking at the filly would say that much. She wore her emotions pretty obviously on her sleeves.

======================================================================================

@Sekel

Last would put another, firm hoof on the princess, and not let go of her currently. She could see how this were going, and whilst her foremost duty were to protect her princess, the Shrine Maidens had not grown up, thinking that meant never laying a hoof on their princess. Being loyal, meant knowing when to step up, and take action beyond just shielding them from things, and right now, she needed to take some action, before the princess would end up doing something dumb.

"Your majesty, take a deep breath. If you panic, you won't be able to figure this out. You're not in any immediate danger, so calm down, and think carefully about this. Otherwise, you might end up hurting yourself."

Not before Last would knock her out by force. Which would be regrettable, but if the alternative were more death magic, but now done with the princess weakened, and in a panic, it would be the best thing to do, to protect her.

==========================================================================================

@Starforce

On 2021-12-02 at 11:36 PM, Magnolia said:

Looking to Dread she would look her in the eye. "It is most surprising to me that it isn't more widely known. In all my travels I haven't encountered those who dabble in such arts. I have no doubt you may be, as well as others like you, frowned upon by the others in this world. I hope that isn't the case. As a matter of fact, I thought for the longest time that these arts are impossible. But at least I know now that they not only are possible, but are part of what the world is. There is life after death." she paused.

"What do you know of the afterlife?" she asked further.

"My family harbors back to the time when Discord fell the first time. For a long time, we suffered persecution, and mistrust. They saw us as misfits and freaks at the best of times, and evil about to rise at the worst. Especially the more powerful amongst us.

Generations had to prove time and time again, that we were there to help, and not hinder, before it were accepted. As much as our craft can be. There will always be those who fears us, or think we are phoneys, as they do not believe in spirits, nor the afterlife. To us that matters little. We are not meant to force others to subscribe to our believes, but rather do what we are supposed to, and be pleased in the knowledge that we have done right. Some take to that better than others.

As for why you see few who as you say, dabble, it is because most fear being persecuted. Even of our family, most who go the more extreme routes, remain at home, where we are the guards and protectors of the three villages, that makes up the area. There is less judgement there. Besides, it is only the mares of our family who are like this. The stallions do not possess the gift. All but one, yet he forced himself to straddle that line, through forbidden knowledge. For a good cause though, so I do not blame him. Desperate beings rarely make long, thought out plans.

Regarding the afterlife, I can only tell you that there is more beyond Tartarus. A place of beauty, in which all but the most rotten of souls will end up. I cannot tell you more of it though, nor why some souls seems to reincarnate. We can only see glimpses as we help them pass on, to whatever awaits them after death. The way it functions, and what lies ahead in full, is only known to the reapers. And they speak with nopony.

Do you fear the afterlife, friend?"

While this went on, Zeehva would slowly, and in silence, set up the booth next to Dread's. She needed to get this done. They'd need the bits, so she had to get to work. Which would start with her having a place to put things.

She were saddened, and feeling despair to some degree right now, but sadly, she were familiar enough with that, and how to push that down, whilst working. There'd be time to cry more tears later. For now though, she had to focus. For him.

============================================================================

@Kujamih @Loud Opinion

"Naaaa-me. Name... I am... Shark? Friends now call me Shark. So I am Shark, yes?

But friend have two name. Pretty names too. Whiii-te. White. And Liiii-ght. Light. White Light. Is sounding good.

If friend can have two name, I can too? So... Shark... Shark..."

She seemed to really struggle with this one as she were attempting to find a word that she thought sounded like it were good with Shark. But that required being creative with words, and she were still new at this. She had a tough time guessing what to say here.

"...Hunt? Frog? Does friend have idea? Friend sounds smart."

Maybe Light could think of something. Though he wouldn't have a cutie mark to go by. She were a blank flank, and it were questionable if she even could get one.

=========================================================================

@Widdershins

Cover Up listened with great care to what he were being told. Of a culture, and a history, that erupted so much that it nearly destroyed itself, and they had to take to a curse to stop their inevitable demise. A sad tale, and one with a rich history behind it He felt sure he were just being given the highlights now, as for example, it did not speak of what happened in the silent years, but it still felt as if he were learning quite a bit about the kirin. A race whose emotions flared so high, that it had actual, applied force to it... To think such a thing possible, were crazy, but with what he had seen, did it not make sense? Maybe if it was an emotional fire, that would explain why it did not burn Whitt when he flared up.

Though it didn't seem like such a thing were a boon. Surely he couldn't have been the first to be scared of this display, and it must make it hard for the kirin to connect to others. Though his reasons were different, Cover Up could understand how difficult it were, when that sort of thing happened. Trying to connect to others that were, among those who couldn't always understand you. He had tried coming in with his own cultural background and blend in, and the more he spoke of it, usually, the less others wanted to do with him. Equestrians had a weird attitude towards death that just seemed to alien to him. Like the most natural of all things, were taboo.

Whitt sounded like he had it worse though. A long, personal history of emotional distress, then wandering into a world where he didn't even have to talk to get feared. And as a clearly very emotional being, he could imagine the kirin also had his bouts of for example, being rather obsessive. The situation he mentioned with the rock would indicate as much at least.

When the next spout of flame came up, it wasn't bravery that made Cover Up slowly raise a hoof, and reach it towards Whitt. It were curiosity, and whilst it felt warmer, he wouldn't retract it unless he felt it got too warm. It would tell him how bad this were, and if perhaps, the flames were not as harsh as he had first gotten the impression of.

"...M-My family were made of settlers. Them and a few dozen more, came from a far away country called Harrowmark, when I was a toddler.

We settled here, but I haven't grown up with the same culture as Equestrians. I grew up with that of Harrowmark, and there, our culture revolves around death.

We worship gods that governs the peaceful afterlife, and the state of undeath. We openly talked about, and plan what to do, in case someone dies. We celebrated holidays, based around the pinnacles of death's powers, in various forms. It's a culture that respects, and reveres it, but Equestrians don't. Most of them, doesn't want to talk about it, and the more I did, the less they wanted to listen. They just want to think of here and now, and live carefree, and with kindness. But I grew up in an environment, where we were taught to be suspicious, and fear the up rise of witches. We didn't hug often, and our lives were simple.

After... A-After something destroyed Ormenthal, and took everyone away, I had to go out into this world, and I don't understand it. There's so many dangers, but Equestrians doesn't even think about their own mortality. And they're so... I dunno. Both open to things, but really paranoid about stuff they don't think is normal. It's not easy to connect to them.

I went out here, because I were told a rumor that someone had seen ponies, that looked like my parents, and my brother. But I've yet to hear anything since I got here. It's been over a week, and still nothing. I kept having some hope, but now, I... I don't know what to do, if I let go of it. What would I do? I don't have a home, and I can't go back to Harrowmark. It's closed off, and too dangerous, with the gods out of balance. But I don't know what to do here either, and...

...I-I'm sorry sir. I didn't mean to switch it on to me. We're talking about your history here, and that sounds like a tragic tale. One that's better now, I hope? At least it sounds that way, after the pony came to help you. It must have been weird though, yes? To suddenly speak again, after being silent for so long? I can't imagine how that must've felt for you all.

Have there been any kind of problems since you've all been talking again? Besides the uhm... E-Eruptions?"

====================================================================

@EQ_Theta

8 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“We take what moments we can, rest when we could spare the time. It feels like a lot is changing now, but I suppose that’s what we’ve gotten ourselves into, right? Never thought I’d see this happening to myself as a youngling, and I guess the same is true for the future. “

“Strange journey is about right. A lot of what we’ve been through isn’t normal, but what if all this strangeness is becoming normal to us? Going back to a normal life would be just as strange as leaving a normal life behind.”

“Great, now normal and not normal are up for debate!” Lin sighed for a moment and pondered on what they’ve been through over the past days. Aside from that wonderful night at the carnival, it was true that a normal life reminiscent of her childhood just wasn’t coming back. If anything, living alone, then meeting some unlikely friends was becoming routine. It would be difficult to go back to a simpler lifestyle, not when she knew just how much larger her world has become. 

"Equestria is a place where normal* isn't something with a set definition. It is a land of oddities and weirdness, and that is even if we don't include the draconequui. But yes, even for this country, what we hav been through currently, is rather strange. Educational though, yes? The chance of encountering such oddities as we have regularly, is so minute, and yet, we now have them. From crystal beasts, to the Kitsune, there's a lot to digest."

"..:Digest the kitsune?"

"It was a figure of speech. It just means we have a lot to think about, with what we have seen.

Though I doubt it will cause our lives to suddenly go topsy turvy. I'm sure we've been through the worst at this stage, and that we'll have more breaks from the abnormal, than partake in it. Which would be good. We'd need some stability, to focus on what matters, such as helping your Elder Ghilan."

This being a thing that still needed to be done eventually, though that'd be hard, if they were juggling abnormal things constantly. It were probably less severe for a time now though. They had to meet with Uddo, and in a few days, see the spirits inhabit their new bodies, but beyond that, they did not have any obligations. There were a degree of peace over things now, where one could reflect, and contemplate. Or simply relax as best as possible. Whatever might work the best.

As for the floor, they could lay down on it if they wished to. There were some carpets around, and the floor itself were not cold, but pretty luke warm, so it wouldn't be the worst experience imaginagble.

8 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“I still don’t know what to make of Uddo, to be honest. I’m surprised we ran into someone father knew and even more surprised that he recognized us despite never meeting them before. He seems nice, and he was open with us earlier at his shop. I really didn’t think he was the kind that struck me as a strict perfectionist, but he must’ve been different back then. I’m looking forward to meeting him later and learning more, but I think you’ll like him. You, uh… feeling nervous about meeting him later?”

“Maybe with all this talk of strange journeys, he could be help bring something normal to life here in the old town for you, Rosa. And speaking of pleasant things and being paranoid… you could use something that can ease your tension. Sen used to get these body massages after training, and he sometimes did that for me. Seems like you could use one.”

“Only if you want, my friend. Only if you want.”

"...Actually, a wellness center might not be a bad idea. Massages, a proper bubble bath, a sauna, everything else along those lines... I haven't tried so for a long, long time, but it would be pleasant. We'd have to find one that were not overly expensive though, as I've yet to go on a gig for Scarcity. I can probably think of a few, if you just give me a moment."

"Wellness..."

Omen would tilt her head to the side, then stand completely still for around 48 seconds. At the end, she'd get her tongue out, wrapped around some papers. A little wrinkled up, but they were still mostly fine, as she hadn't placed it in the stomach she usually used for digestion.

"Dragon I got the fire sauce from. Were someone going around there, giving these out. Said it were wellness? Is that what it says?"

Unwrapping them, it did indeed seem to be related to a wellness center. One that he knew of, in Manehattan. It seemed to be part of a promotion, from what the text said. A collaboration between *Rose Tint's Wellness Center*, and *The helpful members of the esteemed Macabre Clan*. before the details of what the center offered, there would be a brief description of what the collaboration entailed. Which seemed to be a new kind of skincare treatment, generously donated to them. Which would be part of what one would get through this voucher. Along with a massage, a trip to the bubble baths, and then the sauna.

"Huh... Promotional material for a free, limited spa treatment. From the looks of things, one does agree to try the new treatment when making use of this, so I am assuming this is meant to work as promotional material. Must mean it is an unorthodox thing, that they need to have promoted. Fascinating.

How come you got in possession of three of these, Omen?"

"The pony asked if I wanted to try. She held three. I said yes, and ate them. The paper tasted like flowers."

The pony had been mighty confused at the voice, then the tongue, and finishing off by Omen then eating these vouchers, so she had been lost for words. Otherwise, she could've explained she just held a hooffull, rather than them being supposed to be distributed like this.

"Well then. A delightful opportunity. Maybe something to think about taking advantage off. Though I'm curious, what is your massage option, Sen? I did not take you for a masseuse, or have skills in that kind of thing. Do tell. I'm curious."

@Illiad Easle

On 2021-12-01 at 7:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Those gathered looked relieved to see her focus and skill at the task at hoof. They had her practice with a few simple runes, giving her a proper feel for how the metal poured and could be shaped, before bringing her over to the actual project. It centered on a large emerald, absolutely flawless and nearly spherical. Next to it there were several diagrams that showed what would need to be engraved onto and into it in order for it to function. Far more complicated than any of the gem creatures that Euclid had made previously, at least that Blitz had seen.

They started with Euclid and Dinky doing what they did best, using their triple laser technique to carve the interior of the gem without cutting through the gem itself, hollowing out a space inside that they teleported a flawless cloud diamond to fill the space within. Then the carved the rest of the interior runes, this time with entrance holes that would allow Blitz to pour the minostralium in to complete the runes. Then the pour hole would be closed back up, necessitating that Blitz poured only exactly what was needed.

She tended to go by the idea, that if she saw something, she'd get an idea about how it might explode. But even without the life on the line, she wouldn't get that feeling when she saw the gem. It looked far too pretty to just blow up. This were the sort of thing you'd use as a power conductor in some fashion, and place in the midst of a large robot. Or something similar like that. You didn't explode it at least, that was for sure. The less pretty ones could be used for that. Y'know, when there weren't a life or dead situation at hoof.

At that point, she had been prepped on other runes, to see how she'd do. As per usual, she learned fast, though thankfully she skipped the point where she then went off the rails, and tried to make something unorthodox, with said skills. Though this were just training, and not as crucial. What would be, would be something involving this gem, and the odd, magic metal. Maybe she were using that to prep this crystal, and the foal were gonna be a crystal pony?

She'd see eventually. For now, she'd follow instructions silently, and with a steady hoof. Normally she hummed when being focused, but right now, she were like, four times super focused. Had to spend all her effort on this, and make sure it got right. And provided she were not given false instructions, she would complete it too.

It were pretty tense. Why, she didn't even comment on how jealous she were of their cool laser this time. Something she'd really want herself, and which every smart pony should know, she should not be let near enough to examine. If she did in details, she might end up making one herself somehow. It continued to amaze even her sometimes, what she could make out of some trash and a bit of inventiveness. As well as things that laid around unattended, which might be usable as parts. She were a lot more in control of herself about this than when she got here originally, but she still had her moments of being overexcited and impatient.

On 2021-12-01 at 7:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

It took several hours to get all the interior runes just right, then they could move to the external runes. These would be cast in minostralium and then attached to the gem, these would produce the actual aura that would allow the foal to interact with the world, these were external so that they could be replaced as the foal grew to keep the projected size the same as his natural size would have been.

Finally, a good amount of time later, it was finally done. It was ready for the next step.

Euclid could hardly take his eyes off of it, a faint smile on his face. "It's... flawless. Thank you Blitz." He sighed, "Let's go, no sense wait-"

Dell held out a hoof, shaking his head. "We should all rest first. If we try to do this tired mistakes could happen, and it would all be for naught." He turned to nod at Blitz, "You've been a very big help today. I hope you'll be able to help us again tomorrow?"

She didn't notice time at all as she were doing this. It felt like she had just been going at this for mere minutes, when she were suddenly done.  But boy howdy, when she were made to halt, and told it were done, she really had a chance to just let out a small gasp of relief, and put on a big grin. Then wobble backwards for a few steps, until she found her hoofing. Not in the direction of the gem thankfully. She made sure to put her weight in the opposite direction once she felt she might fall. But she kept her hoofing. Heh, must've been at this longer than she thought. Probably why her tummy was rumbly too. Wasn't a meal she even had earlier. Just some jello. That was more a snack than anything.

"Hehe, itzy bitsy dizzy."

Much as she might be a little drained there, she still had a fair amount of energy, and would face Dell with a big, pleased grin, and try to go in for a hug. If the hug seemed rejected, she'd just jump in place instead.

"Of course I'll help. Anything to help the poor little foal. You just get lots of rest, and call me when the next part comes in, okay? I promise I'll follow directions to the itty bitty details there too. And then we can celebrate with little hats, and fireworks."

She could neither confirm, nor deny, that she had several pieces of fireworks hidden around her usual work area, for just such an occasion.

"Bright and early, yeah? I'll remember to sleep tonight then."

She had slept the night before, so usually that meant she's attempt to keep working for a few more days, but this was really important, so she'd try her best to sleep. And if that didn't work, she'd take something from her snack box. She always felt drowsy after taking some of that. She still wasn't sure why though. Maybe the sugar just gave her a bit of an overload.

For someone who technically had a rather good brain in her head, it were a surprise that through her brother before this, and now up here, she still hadn't noticed when there had been put sedatives in her snacks, to ensure she got some sleep, rather than work until she collapsed for a few days. Nothing dangerous, and it wasn't needed at much anymore, but she still often felt that there were just too much to do and see, to waste any time on silly things like sleep.

@Widdershins

On 2021-12-02 at 1:50 AM, Widdershins said:

Oh! I have a few undead-related characters too i've written about! (Even if i'm not much of a zombie fan) That could likely fit into your setting too! Like a pretty chill butcher that ran a business for the more predatory species all above-bar legality before he went "mysteriously missing" one day and turned up zombified and none the more aggressive for it. Or a sort of anti-Fluttershy of Red Thread, a shy, pale necromancer who takes care of all the little critters who met unfair ends. 

Well, Harrowmark have been closed off, and hard to exit for centuries, but it's fairly simple enough to enter, long as you can get past the undead sea monsters. but they aren't everywhere either, and now the country is about to open up a little more, once again.

The undead of Harrowmark aren't all shambling, wanting to hurt others. Some have gotten to such a stage, but others have their own societies in the marshes, and hidden places, away from the main cities. In many various forms, from risen, to geist, to amalgamation, poltergeists, and so on.

Maybe the butcher would fit well there, but Red Thread would fit in more with the Macabre Clan of Equestria. Old family of mediums, who tend to the departed, who cannot move o, for various reasons. Sorrow is but a single member, but there's many around the country, doing their part. Necromancy is not per se frowned upon by them. Only if used wrongly, to try and desecrate the dead for personal gain. Attempting to help animals who did not get a chance, by offering them some life after death, would be something they'd welcome, and invite her to join them, and partake in tutelage of generations, upon generations of professionals, dealing with death magic in many, various forms.

====================================================================

@Starforce

No idea. It's your proposal, so seems more fitting you name it.  Sides, I haven't a clue.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-12-02 at 7:19 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Vale didn't look too sure, "You... you don't have to do that for me. I'm not that good at cooking anyway. I was always much better at science and experiments, mechanical endeavors, not chemistry."

"Then someday, you can teach me something sciency, and we'll have fun with that too. Just like we're gonna have in making this recipe, once I find it. It'll be fun, and everyone can join in on learning how to cook some Cervid dishes. Besides, it's important to learn about other cultures, and what they eat is part of that."

Void was definitely going to go for this plan when she could now, that Vale seemed to be a little apprehensive to the idea. It wasn't to be mean though, but to try and get her into the deep water so to speak, with something she weren't familiar with, so she could learn along with the rest. It were like with the math class Void had sat in on, where she too ended up learning, but on a topic in which Void were actually proficient, and with a more cultural angle too. Making Cervid food, could bring the topic into why deer and does ate this, what their homes were like, where such ingredients grew, and so on, and so forth. It were important that the adorable younglings here, got exposed to more than just Equine culture. Just like how Elef were experiencing another culture, though without the same link to it, as he had by blood. It didn't change the fact that he were getting more enlightened, and learning all kinds of new, fascinating things. She'd want that for all of them.

On 2021-12-02 at 7:19 AM, Illiad Easle said:

They were all asleep at about the part where the dogs had returned to find Snow Hoof, Vale listening in as well, "You know, they have a story much like that one in Cervidas. The evil step mother was a reindeer in my version though."

She sighed, motioning for Void to join her in leaving the room, having taken care of the rest of the cleaning while the story was told, "Now, you owe me a good explanation. I won't wait any longer to hear what you've kept from me all day."

"It's a great tale, told on several continents. Even the dragons have a variant of it, although there the evil stepmother gets eaten at the end, and the boar is a wyvern.

*sigh* But I guess, we should get to it then, huh? Let me just grab my bag then."

Void would go over and grab her bag, then lead Vale outside, or at least well out of ear range of the foals. She'd then take the folded paper out of her back, though she wanted to say something to the doe before she hoofed it over.

"When you read this, know that I asked the consul, and he says it's legitimate. It's a transcript, from his meeting with Molotov."

She'd then hoof it over, and give Vale the chance to read through the whole thing, which wouldn't skip a beat. Not even how Molotov had needed to vomit from the shock and horror he felt, once he were faced with indisputable evidence. It'd all be there, from start to finish, including the last message dotted down from himself. The one where he didn't ask for forgiveness, but a chance to atone for what he had inadvertently taken part in. As well as the part about having something of hers, from the facility.

"I don't know what you're feeling right now, but... I'm here for you, if you need to speak about it."

She wanted to say a lot of things, including that she were going to meet up with Molotov eventually, but this might be an emotional point for Vale. She'd have to not pour gasoline on it this quickly, by saying stuff like that, and instead be supportive. Like a friend should be.

(Changelings)

On 2021-12-02 at 7:19 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin nodded, "Believe you me, I don't give praise lightly, or to any who do not deserve it. I hope she'll earn my approval, one day, but until then she will be properly evaluated. But yes, all the preparations appear to be in order, three days should be enough for them to get settled in their new roles, give the casino a trial run with a group of actors, and we'll be ready to open the doors to the populous."

"Best if we all got some rest before then, even if you won't be directly in charge it will expose the hive in a very new way, and you'll need to be ready for unexpected interactions and complications."

"I dunno. You praised me pretty early on, hehe.

Aaah, but jokes aside, I asked her to show up at 6 in the morning. Dunno if we really need folks that time of day, but it gives her and Ace plenty of time to get to know one another, and find some kind of harmony in how they work. Though I'm just happy we have everything filled out, and that barring me needing to do something about either of them, I don't have to deal with horrid stuff, like firing anyone. I don't know if I'd have the heart to do that."

"Doesn't mean he's not right. You have status now, your majesty. There's value in the hive now, and some will jump at that."

"sigh* I know, I know. You're both right here, but I'm not even sure what the first thing to worry about there is. The other casino's trying something, to not get more competition, I guess? That's probably something to be concerned about."

@EQ_Theta

10 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Our friends say they could handle it, and I don’t have any reason to doubt them. Honestly, I wouldn’t know exactly how they’d filter magic, but I’m sure they know what they’re doing. If that knowledge is not theirs, they probably learned it from somewhere. They’ll be careful, because if there’s something we learned from them, it’s that playing with magic can lead to disaster, but it wouldn't hurt to talk to them about what's to come.”

“It’s even worse if that magic is unstable. Sen and I have been on the wrong end of unstable magic before, and getting out of that was one of the most painful things we ever experienced. I wouldn’t wish that kind of hurt on anyone, and coming from a history of being cleansed from harmful magic, it was rough. Now that I think about it, I don’t want this kind of experience to become a habit.”

"All magic can be harmful. It's how it's being applied that matters. I'm sure you'd be able to use your expertise to avoid the same kind of malady, where you to find yourself in a similar situation again.

But yeah, best to approach things like that with some caution. I cannot fathom how painful of a process it have been for you to go through, to be cleansed like you have. A rousing endorsement, your words are not."

He'd chuckle slightly, and stretch his legs ou. A nice comfy seat he were in right now, but he could certainly feel he were a bit crumpled up, with everything that's been going on. Had he been alone, he'd have just closed his eyes, and had a nice, silent nap. But as he had visitors, that were not advisable. It'd also mess with his sleep pattern, so best to wait regardless, as tempting as it sounded to just lay back, and have it done right away.

"The future is certainly going to become interesting though, but I hope we're over the worst. No more treason for me, or magical mishaps for you, Lin. Nor any more potential mind control in yours, Sen.

...It's been a strange journey actually, hasn't it? Yours more than my own, I'd personally say. Yet it's been a relentless amount of oddities for days now, culminating in this brief reprieve. I hope there is time for us to savor it, though I feel there will come something. A call from your town perhaps, with ominous, or urgent news. Or Omen will wander into a yarn shop, and we'll spend the next seven hours untangling her.

Though perhaps I am just being paranoid. Just seems a lot of things have happened for us all for some time now, and not slowed down, but rather escalated, and this pause seems... Tentative."

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

But, there was another more pressing subject. Omen bringing in Rosa’s new belt with a message elicited quite an annoyed response from the thestral. If this C.G. knew about Rosa now, that may also mean she knew about them, and that could spell trouble down the line.

“She knows about this place and about you…. Who’s to say she knows about what we’ve all been up to? You think we might be in danger from someone like her?”

"You have little to fear. It were always me who were her preferred target for her little pranks. And even then, she is annoying at worst, not dangerous to us. As she is employed by Scarcity, and said mare have both me now employed, and a vested interest in staying on your good side, it would be illogical for her to send C. G. to cause damage, or anything of the sort to us. It'd be akin to buying a brand new fridge for a friend, and then attack it with a hammer, whilst laughing at said friends.

Just ignore this for the time being, and we'll deal with it as it comes up. I'd prefer not taking this chance to breathe, and spend it on being paranoid about being listened in on currently.

Let's focus on something more pleasant. The meeting with Uddo and his family later. What thoughts have you made on that?"

He'd lean back as best he could in the chair as he awaited an answer, and let his limbs go limp. A mere moment to relax might be all they'd get, but if it were so, he'd at least try to be as relaxed as he could be, in that time.

==================================================================

@Zoom Jetstream

"Uhm... Well, they're probably fine. Lots of adults here.

Hey, wanna do something fun? I bet there's something we can do around town. Maybe you know something? I haven't been a lot of other places than school, the bakery, and the edge of the forest. And the prison. But that's where I live, with my dad, since he's a Night Guard. Well, we did, before the hydra crushed it. That was kinda bad, but the nice mayor put us in a new place until they rebuild. And everypony came out okay. Even if Gary's snacks got out. I gotta remember to catch more crickets for him when we get a new cage. It's nice when he can't go out and hunt food. Bad weather isn't nice for that sort.

Do you have a pet?"

Jelly were asking a little of this, and a little of that, since she wasn't sure what to go with here. She didn't know that many, and things hadn't been that she could just skitter around. What with first moving here, then getting school and various official papers ready, and then that hydra smashing up their home from the inside... It had been a huge mess. But today was a new day, and it were looking up. School had been okay, she had a new foal to speak with now, and she there was a friendly sphinx in town. What could go wrong?

@Illiad Easle

For the night time stories, I'm just picking some random one of the old Grimm's tales, and such, and ponify them a bit, whilst keeping details vague. I figures it leaves a bit of creative thinking. And saves me from writing a full fanfic.  Hehe.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-11-30 at 6:23 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Her eyes widened a bit before she shook her head, "Nonono, I didn't bake this, I just picked it up from a deer in the market. No, my mother never got the chance to teach me how to make it." She sighed before resuming eating.

"Sounds like I need to rummage around for some cook books then, and find a recipe for these. And when I do, we're gonna have us a nice little cooking lesson."

She had hoped to learn from her, but with what she had just heard, they'd just have to go at this a little differently, but would hopefully still end with Vale able to cook these. Had to be possible to scrounge up some sort of Cervid recipes somewhere, if she just looked around hard enough.

On 2021-11-30 at 6:23 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Elef was happy to add a few slices to his stack, following Vale's example, and Ardee was curious enough to try a piece as well. Teal and the foals stayed away, not liking the smell, but Toupé, surprisingly enough, took up Vale's offer to try a bit.

Tasting it slowly, a curious expression came to her face, "It tastes... good, better than I would have guessed." She didn't take it any further, thanking Vale for the opportunity and going back to her food while Ardee and Elef enjoyed their portions, both expressing a strong appreciation for the variety offered them.

"You like fish? That's a surprise. I haven't met a lot of ponies who have it like that, outside of Neighpon.

That can be another cooking lesson someday maybe: Sushi. There's some very pony-friendly recipes there, that still involves a fair bit of fish. And some that have a good deal more than regular pony portions. Haven't done that in years, but it might be fun. It also involves rice, and steamed veggies. There could be a fun idea for some variety in your food, with plenty of options if you don't want to try meat."

There was an avenue she didn't think she'd get to explore again, outside of maybe feeding griffons. Personally she didn't really like the taste of fish, so it wasn't for her, but as it seemed Toupé, Ardee, and Elef alike enjoyed this, she might get to try this again. She just hoped she could remember how to do it right. It were surprisingly less simple than it looked, in her experience. Which had a lot to do with presentation as well.

She'd have to figure out if there were rice in the area though. She hadn't a reason to look for it before, so she didn't know. Probably not, but... Eh, she'd see. Might be something to improvise with, someday. For now though, it were just nice to speak with them about things like this, and have a light hearted atmosphere, over the heavy topics that had come up earlier.

On 2021-11-30 at 6:23 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Soon enough the dinner was completed and the young ponies all helped clean up what was left over. Vale left the remaining bread in a stack on the counter, "It'll keep well enough, just in case you want a snack later."

 

Then it was off to get ready for bed with the foals, and they were soon gathered on their bed ready for another story, they looked to Void to lull them to sleep.

Alas, nothing good could last forever, and once the washing up had been done, and Void had made sure that everyone had brushed their teeth, it were time to put the bundles of joy to bed. And they were expecting a story too, which she'd happily oblige with.

"I have a good tale we can read through: Snow Hoof, and the Seven Diamond Dogs. It's a bit lengthy though, so if you get too tired, I promise we will read from where we left off, tomorrow."

It was a classic tale really, though with a bit of a darker tone at times. The boar's heart and the evil stepmother were important, yet somewhat evil parts, but stories did need a villain. And this one surely were, from beginning, til end.

It didn't paint changelings in a good light though, as the evil step mother were one of those. But they could find a more positive tale involving them some other night, and at least this would speak to them in good terms, when it came to diamond dogs. A race they probably didn't know of, and this gave a small glance into how they were, and what they tended to do. With illustrations.

She remembered how she had always been uplifted when it got to the point where the seven diamond dogs came home after a long day of digging for diamonds, to find an exhausted pony laying in their home. Unsure what to do at first, but enamored by her kind heart, and radiant beauty. The little song that followed in the tale, were one she'd sing along with, like her mother had done with her. And she had to admit, a tear would still fall from her eye, when it came to where Snow Hoof had been poisoned by the apple, and laid to rest by the diamond dogs, in a cage carved out of clear diamond.

And the ending, after the galant zebra came and cured her of the ailment that held her still, before taking vengeance upon the evil stepmother. Aaah, she felt like a little foal again, getting to that point.

Which might be tomorrow. It depended on how tired they all were, as this were as she said, a lengthy tale. And if they did not last through it, she'd bookmark they page they had reached calmly, and silently wander from the room, with a big, nearly glowing smile on her face. *sigh* Such adorable little angels, all of them.

(Changelings)

On 2021-11-30 at 6:23 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He raised an eyebrow at that, "Truly? That is indeed quite impressive. No, I hadn't the slightest clue."

"She'd be happy to hear that. Nearly no one could ever tell with how good she were at this. Except zebras of course, but you know how perceptive they tend to be. Heh, the few times she managed to trick a zebra, always made her happy, though she were always nice about it. Nothing vile, or rude. They tended to be either respectful, or indifferent to her, so she had no hard feelings against them.

She always said that we might not be fighters, but that didn't mean we had to be defenseless. Using this skill, and really going to town with transformations, helped her bluff us out of a lot of bad situations."

On 2021-11-30 at 6:23 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Her turned his expression to her, maintaining eye contact for several moments before speaking, "No, my evaluation of you has yet to begin, one can hardly be properly measured when they expect it. Good luck."

With that he would turn to leave, waiting outside for the others before continuing, "You did well not to feed into her pride. So long as she feels she must earn her position, I think she'll serve most adequately. Now all that remains is to watch and wait."

"How approachable."

She didn't show it, but Penny were actually kind of annoyed by his attitude. She had wanted some kind of evaluation, so she knew what to work with. This wasn't helping her to get any kind of idea how to deal with him. Guess she just had to be patient, and find out later. Maybe she could get some words from the others of their hive to figure it out. Surely some of them would've had some more direct contact with him, at some point.

"Yes, well... Show up bright and early tomorrow for training, and we'll take it from there, alright? 6 sharp."

Penny nodded, and returned to her paperwork. It seemed she were done for now, and she wouldn't do more, as Bling exited the room, and shut the door.

"It honestly went way better than I had expected, but we'll have to see. She's good at keeping things organized, so long as she can apply that to beings, and not get too cold, along with following orders, I think it'll be good. A lot of ifs I guess, but I prefer having hope.

Thanks for the praise too, but I think you did a good deal too. You didn't give her any sort of satisfaction in what she did. She'll never tell, but I think she'd want your approval. It's good that you show it takes more than a tidy setup to earn it.

So... Now we're set up with that, I think that's pretty much it then, right? Give them a day to get their stuff in order, then maybe open up here in 2-3 days? We'd need to make some flyers."

@Randimaxis

Well, guess it's time to poke the bear again.

Poke poke poke poke poke.

@Kujamih

On 2021-11-28 at 10:32 PM, Kujamih said:

and that demon going crazy.... hmmmm was she born here in casual stroll? if so she has a potential to try and destroy this universe......

let us fix it!

plus @Loud Opinion has dream power..... that could help that demon..... 

She was made in and for this thread, yes. She cannot destroy the universe though, nor wants it. That's why she were so careful in ensuring her contract were as tightly written as it were, as it is literally impossible for her to break it, and she wanted to make sure she couldn't accidentally hurt someone. She have her mood swings, but she still wants desperately to be part of this world again, despite how it pushes her back sometimes.

If you want a pop at that, you can try, but even if she can't hurt, she is allowed to detain. If you are deemed a threat, she will retaliate. She may make for a friend that understand issues though, if he have those.  Up to you. And if it is, we need to sort a setting.

As for the dream powers, her dreams is solely of her life before she sold her soul. The door to her room have warning signs, to advise Luna and her chosen to stay away from it, as there is a strange, otherworldly energy emanating from it. Had that covered some years back, when there were a stint in the dream realm. Which ended up also taking an entity out, that had been trapped there for over a thousand years. Forgot about him actually.

====================================================================

@Starforce

I mean, we could, but I'm saying this straight off the bat: I won't be dragging in cannon chars if I can help it. As I have written previously, I don't like using those directly, as I don't want to mess up the character, and I don't watch the show. Hence I cannot in good faith, say that I could do them justice. So that's a limitation to consider, if you want to continue this.

======================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

I forgot what they came about in, were a prison actually. Whoops. xD Fair enough then. And your idea of hints from the other world is fine by me. Feel free to roll with it.

@EQ_Theta

15 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“It’s going to be something, I suppose. Wielding power alone without magic is already something big and difficult to wrap our minds around, but having the magic of an alicorn… I don’t know, and not knowing scares me.”

“I trust our golem friends will know what they’re doing, and they did mention that the magic they’ll give Scarcity is a copy. I doubt they’ve met an actual alicorn, so anything they’ll come up with is a simple imitation. They’ve been honest with her so far, but I can’t help but feel like they’ve got something in mind when they said they’ll agree with her terms. After all, they mentioned they had some experience working with Scarcity’s type before.” 

“Still… could it really be true? That alicorns are immortal? Being long-lived is different from being immortal, and have there been any actual alicorns who are proven to be immortal?”

"You may misremember things somewhat. Scarcity have the magical source ready. What she needs is assistance in filtering it in safely to her being, which is what the spirits are seemingly able to do. I don't know what their idea is, but remind me next we meet them, to strongly urge them from not trying something disastrous. I do not want to be in her black book, and experience the worst of what might befall us, by incurring her wrath like this. I have seen enough examples of what happens if you slight, or annoy her. Wrath is another matter entirely.

*sigh* But be that as it may, we will see eventually.

As for your other question, perhaps the more appropriate wording isn't immortal, but ageless. Which for many seems the same. The difference most doesn't think of, is that immortal means impervious to damage, whereas ageless, or effectively immortal, means impervious to age, and most time, disease. I hear it theorized the lesser degree of disease, and complete lack of more ingrained ones, comes from them regenerating so rapidly, as part of being ageless. I haven't read enough into it to know though. But I assume since that's what happens to dragon, the similarities means there is a chance it is the same thing. Just without the increasing size. To some degree, anyway. Alicorns do grow somewhat.

Alicorns also die. None so far having been from old age, but there have been others who have been killed, or imploded during the creation. Don't let the propaganda fool you. There are not only 4 alicorns, known to Equestria. There are others, but stories of them are often covered up, as they are not done correctly, most of the time. How exactly it happens haven't been recorded, but best assumptions are intense magical fluxes, that strikes an unfortunate being, and forces them through the process. Most of the time, that makes them mad, and they have to be taken out, lest they go on a rampage. Others simply doesn't survive the process.

Yet there are a few outliers. They are either quietly living for themselves, have mysteriously vanished, or willingly left Equestria. I know only of one who are in a self imposed isolation now, within this country's borders. Well, I heard of the general area, but wherein he himself is, is another matter entirely. As for others... Most are presumed to be dead, if they're not visible. The process is apparently rather traumatic, when it happens in uncontrolled circumstances, so they go away to be alone, and deal with it in peace.

How the princesses does this, without some kind of issue happening, is a secret that not even the agency I worked for, have the faintest idea about. I just assume it have something to do with Celestia finding a safe haven where it can be channeled, and that for some reason, the process only works on mares. Most of the *unsanctioned* alicornifications, have involved stallions. Yet correlation, is not causation, so the jury's still out on that."

15 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Rosa? I take it those initials don’t sound good? Is this stuff from someone you know?”

"A fellow spy, that I dread meeting again. C.G. is a ludicrously effective infiltrator. You could look right at her, and you'd have no idea who she were, even if you met her time and time again. Which for a non-changeling, is rare. The teachers had issues at times figuring out if she had even come to class, just to find out she impersonated another student, or had managed to disguise herself as part of the interior.

She were also one who enjoyed to torment me, and make me the butt of many of her pranks throughout the years. Last I heard, she had gone missing during a mission to Saddle Arabia, six years ago. All they apparently found, were her kit, coaxed in blood and hair. It seems she instead faked her own disappearance, and shifted employer instead.

She isn't a threat I think, but she's rather annoying. And now she knows where I live. *sigh* This is gonna be a hassle down the road.

And don't ask me what C. G. actually stands for, as I have no idea. Her parents were forgers, and taught her well. She had new, official paperwork seemingly all the time, and the only common thread were the initials in her name. It became easier to just call her C. G."

============================================================

@Kujamih @Thunder Light

4 hours ago, Kujamih said:

she would then go near to Blitz and drop her bag of itch.

" no need for that Blitz..." 

she would then go near the spider and Molotov.

" this has Light's energy you know.... anything touched by Light is highly questionable... I guess that includes me..."

"Yeah, well, it ain't like we're mind controlling Puff or anything. From what their mother said while guiding me through the whole thing, we give 'em some magic so they can be whole, and they'll serve, and learn, so one day they can go do their own thing. They're not allowed to hurt anypony, and their mother's words, are above ours. Ain't that right Puff?"

"Yes. Mother knows... What is best. We... Live by her words."

She were still trying to get used to formulating these words, even if they were telepathic in nature. So there were some minor gaps in stuff, as she went talking into their heads with her skittering voice.

"Hear that? even if Light have gone truly off the deep end, she ain't gonna join him in like, sending folks into a volcano."

"Fluffy!"

With this sorted, Blitz would now have more time and focus, to go over to Puff, and rise up on her back hooves to hus the spider on her face. Puff simply stood motionless in response, not sure what to do. She tried moving a leg to hug back, but the motion seemed unnatural for her body. Like her leg didn't want to bend that way, so she stopped.

Molotov just grinned, and let his sister have a go at this. Maybe seeing how harmless Puff were around his sis, would convince her this were alright.

=====================================================================

@Kujamih @Loud Opinion

4 hours ago, Kujamih said:

"wait!..... you watched others.... making pups.... never mind...."

"Nooo. I watch friends have many pups. One reef, have maaaaaaaany pups. Big reef with the... Beee-ll. Bell. Big reef with bell, yes?"

She were talking about the school, wherein she saw some adults, and a lot of foals. The act of actually making a foal was utterly alien to her, but she'd figure it out sooner or later. First she had to find a mate, and then she could make him teach her. Not this on. Metal friend was not mate material for her. She wanted one with less metal, and more shiny. Shinier coat, should mean healthier friend, and therefor, healthier pups, yes? She were sure friends and sharks had that in common. If they looked big and strong, that would be good too. Strong pups survived longer.

=======================================================================

@Starforce

On 2021-11-29 at 12:39 AM, Magnolia said:

"I am most afraid that my words may not suffice for such interesting things you dabble in...Thank you for providing this knowledge to us. It will not go forgotten I can assure you that. I believe it would be best for the two of us to visit the one you speak of at your family's estate. My friend here had gotten some...important files as to how her husband had...passed. I think that since we are in the area it would be a good chance, and an opportunity that would best be taken." she said calmly, shaking slightly as she gave Zeehva some gentle pats to emphasize her word.

Upon seeing Lunari in the photo Magnolia was quite intimidated but would hide that - still, she'd shudder a bit. Given that she were dealing with things she didn't understand and her mask of being strong, and uncompromising was completely gone, she were a lot more true to herself. "...Wow. That is quite something...once again my words likely won't match the merit of your own but this is all very fascinating. Lunari is from a time long ago I can already tell. I don't know a lot about the past, I should have read and studied more. That's my fault for not knowing more." she admitted. 

"It isn't near here, but the train can get you close. From there, it is just a matter of dinging the town, and then ask the locals to show you the way. Most there are bat ponies though, so there is not much life to find during the day hours. I think it important that you go there somewhat soon though. Your friend seems as if she would need it.

I'm sure she will say something herself soon. This is one of those things where she needs to shed her tears first, it seems.

As for Lunari, you would be unlikely to have found out much of her. Her kind of guard have been forgotten to the pages of history. And those who does remember them, insults their names, and call them fanatics. They were not. They were simply loyal without fault, to the throne of night."

It wouldn't take long after she said that, before Zeehva would stop crying as profusely. She'd then grab towards Magnolia, and - still sobbing slightly - would hug the mare tightly, for about ten seconds, in otherwise complete silence. As if she needed this to attain strength, she'd then slowly get back on her hooves, and try to dry the tears from her puffy eyes.

"If w-we're going I... W-We need to sell p-potions. I must... T-Thank you, Magnolia, f-for..."

"Ease your words, friends. Focus on setting your craft on the ready, if that is what you can muster, and I will entertain your friend here. Most of my customers doesn't tend to show for another half hour or so.

Ask what you will, glamorous one. It sounds as if you are curious of death."

@Illiad Easle @Thunder Light

"Oh, you know me my friend. I simply could not wait to see you again."

There hadn't been anyone objecting to them following, so Briar had joined in with Brittle, to find Wilderbeast again. And it seemed he were in quite a relaxed state. A fair thing too. He had worked hard today. He deserved some relaxation.

As for this comment - which he were chuckling about after the fact - it were simply a bit of blind humor. That, along with plant based puns, delighted Briar to go with at times. Some thought he would perhaps take offense if they talked about him being blind, or made a comment that could be seen as talking about it, but that were hardly the case. He were okay with being whom he were, and took no offense to something like that. Did he wish he had eyes? Certainly, but his plan to try and achieve them, had involved Discord, and that ship had sailed. So unless he suddenly heard of a method, he would accept his limitations, and enjoy life regardless.

"It seems you have found yourself a comfortable hideout here. Are you often doing this, when we are not working?"

==============================================================

@Illiad Easle

Blitz gasped, hooves in front of her muzzle, as she heard what the reason were for this metal. As well as what it is that they wanted her to do with it.

"The poor foal! Of course, I'll do anything I can to help."

Blitz were a chaotic being, so to speak, but she had her heart in the right place. At the end of the day, more than anything, she wanted to help others. And right now, there were a foal who needed that, or he wouldn't make it. That simply wouldn't do! Poor little thing hadn't had a chance to enjoy life yet. It was way too early for him to be put in a grave.

"Show me what to do, and I'll do it exact. Pinkie Promise."

They wouldn't have to worry about her wandering off, or losing focus on this. If there were something really important, she could direct her full focus on to something, and this were not just important, but time sensitive too. She'd be on this, and they wouldn't get her out of it. And Silver were right. Her expertise with explosions had a lot of trials and error to it, but one thing it required, were a steady hoof, as well as a stable magic force to get it done, without all of it blowing up in your face. And since some of the stuff she could make, would pulverize anything within a few meters - which would then include herself - she knew when to stay laser focused, and when it were okay to be a bit more scattered.

It'd be like the time she had been making grenades. They hadn't been able to get through to her while she were working on that, even when they were bashing a pan with a pipe, right next to her ear. She completely tuned it out. She'd listen to words this time. She had to, as she didn't know what runes to put on to this, or how. She needed details! And quickly! For the poor foal's sake.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Still, it had been some time since they had last eaten, Vale stepping up this time to feed them, "You said I'd have to take a turn, so I prepared a little something last night."

She went over to a bag she had stowed away when she first came in in the morning, pulling out a stack of cracker-like bread, enough for two per pony, a small tub of what looked like yogurt, and a selection of sliced cheese and small fruits.

Void were more than happy to hear that there were something else they could focus on right now, rather than her apart not-so-good defense, regarding their mistress. This were getting to be a bit of a messy situation.

As for the distraction, Void were honestly pretty surprised at what she heard. As well as saw, once Vale presented what she had prepared. It shook her out of her nervous fit, as her eye fixated on the culinary achievement, of her fellow foal raiser.

"I... I actually completely forgot about that. But this is looking very nice, Vale. And *sniff* *sniff* smells good too. Great timing too. I think it is about time for everyone to have something to eat again, before we hear a lot of grumbling tummies. I'll set the table."

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

She spread them across the counter for the young ponies to see. She held up one of the bread pieces, "In Cervidas they call this Knäckebröd, which means crisp bread, It's like a cracker here, but meant to last a long time without going bad, which is very good for deer as we tend to be nomadic. You can eat it as is, or by topping it like we will tonight."

She gestured next to the yogurt like substance, "This is Filmjölk, which translates to sour milk, but this is safe to eat. It's like yogurt, but not as creamy and a bit more sour, so you usually top it with some fruits. It's one of those things that don't taste too good, but it's very good for you."

She demonstrated, taking one of the crisp bread, spreading a thin layer of the sour milk on it, then adding some cheese and a strawberry, taking a bite to show it was safe to eat. She looked a little disappointed as she ate, "It's not as good as I remember my mother making it, but it's still good. Go on, there's enough for you all to try some different combinations, you too Void, so see what you like."

While the older ponies took to assembling combinations that intrigued them, the foals were content to nibble on a crisp bread each with some of the fruit and cheese separate, their caregivers dipping the fruit in a small amount of the sour milk so they would get some of the healthy mixture too.

While Vale explained, Void would have the table set. Plates, cups, and some cooled cactus juice. She had to work on making more soda at some point, when there were time though. It'd be nice to have in the back pocket, for when things became more serious.

She were still listening in well however, despite doing this. She had seen some of what deer ate, but it had been hasty, and they didn't know details. The time Null and her had been trapped by them, they had to do with random dirt-covered veggies tossed at them in their cage. This here were a good deal better looking than that.

"I've seen bread like this before. I think we found some stacks of smaller, thicker versions of it once, when we scavenged some rations we found up north once. Though it smelled more... Well, it's hard to describe. A bit like stale ale, and beets. This is far more pleasant."

When there were room, and the table were done in properly, she'd go and pick up a slice too. Such a fascinating little piece. She'd have to ask Vale how to make these later. If they lasted a long time, she could perhaps get to work baking of of these for ration packs at some point, just in case Null went off, so she didn't have to just scavenge for food. But for now though, she'd try tasting it. A little nibble, just to judge what kind of taste this were.

Once she had a feel for it, she'd put some sour milk on, then top it with a spread mixture of cheese and fruit. More cheese though. She rarely got the chance to enjoy a good cheese anymore, and this seemed like it'd make for a good combination. The fruit were just to add a little tinge of sweet to the sour.

Once it were assembled, and she were at the table, she'd take a slow bite, and chew it slowly. Really give herself a chance to enjoy the tastes here. Judging from her facial expression, she clearly enjoyed it too.

"This is pretty good, Vale. I'm impressed even. I didn't know you could bake. Think you could teach me this someday? It'd be lovely to learn something new.

Everyone enjoying their meal?"

(Changelings)

13 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin raised an eyebrow, "I doubt you have one of hers. She and Mari both are brand new queens, their first generation only a year or so old at the start of the crisis. Still adorable foal-lings. More likely you have one of Permu's who was sent with Oracle to help her establish her hive. Besides, the Blackwater Protectorate is a long way from here, and changelings often find the anti-magic wastes particularly deadly."

When a changeling died, the magical shield that covered their entire body and also served to form their disguises would dissipate, exposing their bodies to the atmosphere and causing them to burn to ash, which is why no one had ever found a dead changeling before. Anti-magic could cause this field to fail, resulting in them burning alive, an especially painful way to go. As such, the anti-magic wastes were all but impassible to changelings, too long out there would kill them.

"Further, Mariposa is in the zebrican isles, even further but a bit more accessible. Especially now that work is beginning to repair North and South Port."

"As I said, some of them lie about their hives, for various reasons. It's not hurting anyone, so I don't nag them about it, lest they start acting weird. Also, I might've mixed it up. There's a lot of changelings in the area, and while I do my best, I can't remember every detail.

Although I know some have spoken about the quarry. I was even asked myself recently, if I wanted to go there. But my place is here, in New Las Pegasus. Others might want to go that route though, since there's some fans of that hive. I should remember to send them along with some news from town, and an open invitation when that is, actually. Soon as they find a stable, secure path around the danger zone. Hopefully shouldn't take too long now, with things easing up slowly.

Guess there's lots and lots of things to look forward to in the future, now that we have one. Hehe."

14 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

He gave a smug smile, "And what makes you think I haven't seen your rendition? I was around before and during the crisis remember, and I must say, Cheshire's rendition was my favorite by far. I did not know that she herself performed my part, I'm honored."

"Are you kidding me?! You were there? Cheshire would've gone so giddy the entire theater would've lit up. She's gonna go crazy when she hears this.

And you bet she did that herself. As well as several other parts. That was always her specialty, to trick others, often via making use of several impressive illusions at once. Either to play more roles than one, or in some cases, to really confuse someone. Like for instance, this one time that a shop owner in the old town, told her that he didn't care about the law, and he didn't want us *filthy beasts* in his shop. She went in, and started to mess with him, to prove a point. About a dozen different beings going around and touching things, lifting them and set it out of order, fire off comments and so on. And he were going mad, since he couldn't tell this was her.

That's always been a thing of hers. Illusions, with some magic in, can make for an impressively realistic body double, able to touch things all the same. Combine it with some high end ventriloquism, and you have a recipe for one hay of a performer.

All of us, from her hive, have her passion for theater in some way, and we're strongest at illusions. None of us could do what she did though. We don't have that sort of magic to work with. Though if things goes well, I hope I can replicate her art. It was always so impressive, to see a stage of 6-7 performers, and then knowing that it was all her, acting her heart out, and none were the wiser.

That play, where she played you, right? Could you tell that she had three parts at once, for the majority of that, with some of us going in at times when a character went out of sight, for a seeming transition? Or vice versa? It's so few who could actually tell, unless they were strong hunter types, who could go by heart beats, or like, really minute smells."

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Before entering her room, Rasputin took a moment to prepare, adopting a stoic, slightly unimpressed, expression and cold demeanor. He hardly acknowledged her greeting, simply nodding when addressed, then turning his cold gaze around the room as if analyzing it, judging it for any potential flaws, as he waited for Bling to break the news to her.

She did not look impressed at him either, as Rasputin put on the tough act. Nor did she look like she'd scowl either. She kept her demeanor as it were. Some tough beings who liked to flex muscle had come in to intimidate her during her work before, and if they didn't make her break her facade, this minor display hadn't a chance. Not in her current state at least. Maybe if she were in a bad mood, it might change.

As for flaws, he'd find the room spartanic. It had the essentials, and furthest along the wall, a bed, with a small table next to it, holding a mug of water. No personal items of any kind were shown, nor any mess. Even the desk were ridiculously clean. The sort who took pride in her work, to no surprise.

Now she'd be tested though, as the situation were laid out before her, by Bling. Not the full details, as she weren't to know that there were a *test phase* more or less going here, but otherwise, she'd be told of the position they were willing to offer her, as the one she had hoped for had been filled, by internal promotion. By a staff member with impressive credentials as well.

"So that's how it is. We'd still like to offer you the position of floor manager though."

"I accept. When will I be required to start?"

"Wait, really? I thought you'd be a little... Well, miffed, about this."

"I'm not an idiot. Considering the time it took, I assumed you had another candidate too. I asked around whom might have the guts to do so, and began hearing rumors that the floor manager were being considered. So I had time to come to terms with this potential outcome. It is undesired, but it is still a position of some importance, and a shoe in."

"And you know you're not allowed to try and sabotage his work?"

"If I did, it would just get the both of us dismissed, the casino would end in a rut, and there would never come an opportunity to run it again. There's more to gain from simply doing my job, and be ready to step in, if he can't handle it, or at some point goes elsewhere. Trying to sabotage him would be illogical."

She were slightly jealous, but she kept that inside, and didn't show it in her actions, words, or even gaze. Her hive had died by being too prideful to know when to simply swallow said pride, and if she began to be consumed by it too, rather than being the one in control, she'd end up with nothing. Patience would get her more, and she'd deal with this job then, in the meantime. It beat having to help with tax loop holes for beings with more cash than morals, or logical sense.

"Any objections, or comments, from the assembled committee? I assume you're here to see if I would act out of place at least, Rasputin?"

She didn't ask about Bruce, because they all knew why he were here. Guard drones like him were so... Simplistic. 

@abrony-mouse

On 2021-11-27 at 12:47 AM, Fuchsia said:

She rests her pink forelegs on the bed and smiles, "You sure have a lot to fill me in on." she gestures to the grand homestead. "But sure, I could do with eating something other than coconuts and tropical grasses. Let's plan our next move over breakfast."

"Delightful. If you would excuse me for a few moments."

He felt fairly fatigued still, as he rose from the bed, and wandered towards the adjoining bathroom, but he simply could not be looking like this. He were in the presence of a now well-groomed mare, and n comparison, he looked like somepony who had crawled out of a trash can. Utterly disgraceful.

It would be about ten minutes until he returned. His shower were hasty, and his fur still somewhat damp, but as he finished combing his coal-grey hair, he'd at least feel like he were more presentable to his adventuring companion.

"Much better. Now I don't disgrace your radiant presence as much anymore. Now then, please follow me, and feel free to ask anything you will, as we move along, if you have questions."

The path out of the room and towards the kitchen would take some time to traverse, as they had to get through a few, long halls. Through which were more of the audacious looks of a very well off, high society pony. Though even if that were the case, the only pictures were of himself, Grim, various close friends, and of course, his family. None of them overly pompous in nature, as he didn't much care for that. And the staff seemed nice to, as every time he passed somepony cleaning, or doing something else, they'd greet him kindly, and he'd in turn, do the same. This also added time, as he halted to properly wish them a good day, and other things, but it should hopefully show that he were not the sort of rich pony who considered himself so far above others, that they deserved to be disrespected.

Eventually, they'd get to the kitchen. Grim would be at the counter, chopping up some tomatoes into cubes with surprising speed, and add them to two porcelain bowls, as the salads were being made.

"Hel-"

"Sit down. You're in no condition to overexert yourself right now, young man."

Oof, he were in for a talking later it sounded like. Grim usually didn't call him that, unless he were sorely disappointed in him. Best to do as he asked.

A squash chopped up and added later, Grim would come over with the bountiful bowls of fresh salad, and put the cutlery down next to them. Then he'd go over to the fridge, and bring along two large, crystal glasses.

"What might the lady wish to drink? We have milkshakes, orange juice, apple juice, a more exotic mixture as well, if that would hold interest. Twelve kinds of soda, sparkling water, and lemonade. My apologies for the sparse selection, and simplicity of the meal. I will ensure that by dinner time, there will be a proper meal. Have you any preferences for that as well, madamme? You need only mention it."

He'd be galant and smiling towards Fuchsia, as he waited for her drink preference. But Billowing would have to wait until she had picked, before he would get an option. First came the one who had brought him safely home.

===========================================================================

@Starforce

On 2021-11-27 at 3:19 AM, Magnolia said:

Bending down a bit to Zeehva she would embrace her again lovingly and rub her hoof through her mane calmingly. "See...? He is always here with you. He loves you and he will never, ever give up on you. While you may not have seen him in a very long time, he is always here with you. Whether it be around you in a spirit form you cannot see...or within your heart - he loves you and he is still with you." she spoke, continuing to rub her hoof through Zeehva's mane. Along with some other comforting measures, she would turn back to Dread.

"C-can you tell us how these pictures are taken and how they capture spirits? Are these spirits, indeed around us? Or were they only captured in the photo? This is really interesting..." she spoke, shaking a little bit. A few tears fell from her eyes but mostly for Zeehva's sake.

"He s-shouldn't... *sob* He s-should be at r-reheest."

She could barely get the sentence out, and were unable to gather the strength to raise her hooves up to give back on the comfort she felt from Magnolia. She needed to cry this out, before she'd be able to get back on track.

Meanwhile, Dread would let out a sigh, and lower her head some. She would not respond, until spoken to, but she would lay down the camera.

"I'm sorry that this is one you knew, who still lingers. It is not easy to know they have not moved on peacefully. I sadly cannot help with that, as I am not able to do what have to be done, but when you feel ready, I will give you a note, and directions on whom to talk with, in my family's estate. They will help you to get another chance at speaking to him, and say your goodbyes.

*sigh* It never gets easier to face those whom are haunted, by the loved ones who deserved better for their afterlives. That is what my camera shows. It can picture those who remains along with us. Most being simply wayward spirits not yet ready, or able, to move on, as the one with you seemed to be. I can imagine have moved along to other places in town already, but not the one, whom sounds like they were your friends dearly departed.

Spirits are everywhere, and larger towns draws them in, as it presents sights that they may have wished to experience before they died, and could now resolve. Most are simply not prepared to move on, for minor things as such, and will pas on in their own time, without ever having an impact on us living. Others are not so fortunate, and need help, before they lash out. That is what me and my family does. We are mediums, to varying degrees of power, with the goal of assisting spirits, and those hurt by their passing. Such as your friend here.

If you wish to know how my camera works, it does from duality. Let me show you."

She turned the camera to take a picture of herself. And when it were cleared up, it would show her, with a mare standing seemingly on her. Larger than Dread herself, and intertwined with the chains. She also seemed very old, as the mare looking at her then, were wearing armor that had not been in use for at least the last seven hundred years, and were rather intimidating. Cause of death, seemed to have been something shot in her head, as she had a hole between her eyes, going all the way through.

"Her name is Lunari Ruby. An old soldier who were stuck, and got the help she needed to come to her senses. Now she wanders with me, and vanquishes the dark spirits we encounter, until she feels she have done enough to deserve rest. We are connected, so she takes the picture, as much as I do. Therein lies the link. Together with the special lens."

=============================================================================

@EQ_Theta

The groups would say goodbye to one another, and soon after, the lot of them would be back, home at Rosa's place. And soon as he had unlocked the door, he'd go for the first seat he could find, and sink down in it with an elongated sigh.

"What a day it's been. I feared worse, but it at least seems like thinks went benign. And that we will for once, have a few days away from that angle of things. Though once that have passed... I am not thrilled to think about her with so much added power. She may have a vested interest in doing well, but she is already substantially powerful, via influence. If Scarcity goes further, and becomes magically, and physically, more powerful too, I wonder if she will remain in lane...

*sigh* But the dice are thrown. I know her well enough by reputation, to know that when she say she had precautions, it is likely some degree of a kill switch. Golems have historically been creatures that could go wild, and be dangerous. Difficult to handle too, so there would be certain things imprinted into them, that could work to undo the work, if need be. I can imagine she holds one of the simplest variants of that, if she means to relinquish control again of it which would be a scroll with a sentence engraved into their chem. If she destroys it, there will no longer be a mechanism for her to do anything, so it would be a matter of her doing so, when they had fulfilled their bargain.

We should inform them of this, before the event itself, so they know what to expect. But I see this going only one way. And after she have effectively become immortal... Who knows?

*sigh* I suppose it's just a matter of accepting it. I should go and find what she left in my room."

"This."

Whilst he had been talking, and lounging back, mentallyt exhausted, Omen had gone to his room to pick up something she saw sit on the bed. An elongated, oversized jewelry box from the looks of it. Omen would put it down on Rosa, and as he opened it, he would find an exact replica of the belt he had given to Elder Ghilan. Except brand new, and with all the pockets filled with the correct objects. There were also a note, simply saying-

No excuses now, slacker. Get to work.

C. G.

"C. G.? Oh, you have got to be kidding me. This is where she went? Of all the reasons for her to vanish, it were to end up with Scarcity..."

==============================================================

@Loud Opinion @Kujamih

On 2021-11-26 at 11:49 PM, Kujamih said:

Light could only stay awkwardly silent to everything the shark is saying and trying to imply with the other strange pony.

he would then boop the shark to make her stop.

".... maybe you and I aren't that similar...." Light blushingly said.

Shark would wrinkle her nose as she got booped, and take a step back. She remembered a diver doing this to her once, back in the ocean. It had been very confusing. then too. She hadn't hurt him either. He had just swum off right afterwards, and she had taken off to hunt some sardines.

On 2021-11-27 at 9:52 PM, Limbo Dreams said:

Then she mentioned pups, which Limbo correctly translated to 'babies' with even more confusion.

This lack of sense was starting to frustrate, and that bled through her tone toward , "What are you talking about? And why babies?! They just sit around wanting to be held, and sometimes become giant monsters! Why would we risk that?!"

"I see friends go into their reefs, with their pups. To be friend, having pups is important,, yes? Important for sharks too. Many, many dangers in the ocean, but here? Much safer. Good place to find a good mate, and have many pups, that can then have more pups, and make many, many more. Is naaa-tuuu-raaal. Natural. Yes. Is natural, yes? Without mate and pups, you not been here. No one would. Is important to have pups.

I hope to get many, many pups. All special too. I can teach them many things. Like hunting frog, and swim fast Just like tasty fish."

Considering her genes were more evolved, and rather strong, if she did find a mate, and could procreate, her genes would likely be dominant, so there'd be more shark ponies around. And there really were no reason why she couldn't mate with ponies, so someday, when she found a hapless stallion, that didn't know how to fight her off, she'd begin muddling the gene pools. On a small scale at least. And she looked forward to having kids. It was the natural way of things, as she knew it. Besides, it always looked so nice when she saw ponies with their foals. She'd like that too.

"Do friend pups sometimes get really big? How? What happen?"

10 hours ago, Kujamih said:

" ...errr...." Light would then not continue his reply to them as it would seem to be the proper route of action for this.

"You two not want pups, because they can be big? Be monster? Is very sad. You look like you would make healthy, strong pups. With strong teeth."

===============================================================================

@Kujamih @Thunder Light @Starforce

On 2021-11-26 at 11:49 PM, Kujamih said:

~Cali in the realm of darkness!~

Cali found herself inside the darkness. she would try stabbing and slashing randomly, but to no avail. she'd notice that more and more eyes are staring at her, so she'd quickly try to escape that realm. as she exits she throws 5 flash grenades inside the portal.

" stare at this..." Cali said in a bad ass way.

then she herself plugged the portal with a portal that throws anything that goes in it back where it came from.

she'd noticed that Molotov is petting the weird spider.

" what are you doing?" 

 The grenades wouldn't really do anything. The shadows didn't get hurt, or displaced by the light. In fact, they were enthralled by it. Coming from a world where there were only darkness, colors and light fascinated them greatly, and they'd watch enthralled at the show. Though before she left the dimension, she'd be able to hear a whisper, dancing upon a cold breeze her way, saying but one word.

"Unworthy."

Mother's judgement, on her potential to be a master. Cali were far too violent, for her to want her children near her.

As fore what she did to the portal, nothing in this dimension could leave, lest they had been embodied by a master, so nothing that went in would be able to leave regardless. Well, Hammond left for a little while, but he opened a new portal he jumped through. For their kind, there were many holes they could make between their worlds, as the other dimension ran between many other dimensions. Theirs with Equestria, were but one of them. But as they weren't hostile, it shouldn't be something to worry about.

As for Molotov, he'd actually be somewhat annoyed at her question.

"What I'm doing? I'm protecting this here innocent lil' soul. Sure you scared her right badly with that stunt."

"Scared... What is that?"

On 2021-11-26 at 11:49 PM, Kujamih said:

".... I'll stab what I want Molotov.... I didn't see you having a problem with light?" Cali starred at Molotov.

"Hey, I don't agree with Light stabbing ya. If you wanna beef it out with him for that, that ain't none of my business. Not sure where he ran off to, after Blitz got hitched on my noggin, but your beef's with him. Powder Puff here's just being right confused. Ain't a reason to chop her down. Poor thing haven't even been alive for ten minutes."

"No more fighting!"

Blitz would raise her voice, and then a small pouch over her head.

"Or everypony gets itching powder in their tails."

====================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

11 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"But since the topic came up, unsurprisingly I too have some enemies, or well, Ruby Shine has, and unfortunately not all are....dealt with, yet. Not saying this because they are dangerous, I'm not stupid enough to leave loose ends like that, but if you spot someone giving me a mean stare, that's probably it." this was mainly because not everyone was an idiot, if someone invited her to their room, and then woke up few hours later with all of their expensive stuff missing, assuming they aren't too drunk to remember her like in most cases they are, it doesn't take genius to figure out what happened, but since she knows what she's doing, only evidence of it would be the word of the individual against hers, and usually it was her word that won, because as stated, there was no evidence, and in cases the other side kept trying, she just had to put on a small act and it was her victim who was in trouble with the law. Then of course there was the cases where the victim while knowing she was to blame couldn't do anything due to fear of losing face or due to her knowing something that would ruin them in other way, though those ones usually didn't stare her down as it was best for them to avoid her.

Naturally the few things she said were said in quiet voice. 

"I'd prefer to keep the details to myself, but I have... Reasons, as to why I am concerned, when I find a lot of attention being on my person. It makes me think that I were not as thorough as I had wanted to be."

He'd refuse to speak more of the matter, in case he were overheard by someone. As *law abiding* as he were, he had a past that he assumed were gone and buried, that he did not want to come up to the surface. It would prove to be very disruptive to the life he had made himself, and quite frankly, he liked things as they were. He had a well paying job, tolerable enough creatures around him, and a griffon whom he were feeling increasingly certain off, were the mate for him. He would hate to leave all of that behind, because of how things once were.

Especially his potential mate. A flawed diamond to some, but he admired her feral attitude, and delightful mixture of aggressive huntress, and somewhat shy social bird. How long would it not take him, to find one even half as alluring as her? Whom were not a changeling, mind you. Urgh. Had he a bit for every time that happened... Well, he wouldn't be rich, but he'd still have a surprising amount of pocket change, considering the circumstances.

"I find the feeling have vanished for now. Perhaps it was nothing, and speaking of it have eased my mind. Just in case though, I will inform you if I feel something similar again."

For the time being however, the train would roll into the station, and it were time for them to board the back one.

He'd have two personal of the train service come in and help him secure the wagon, while the others could go back and board the last part of the train, that were tagged on just before this. A more spacious one, meant for larger beings. Of which there were none others right now, so they'd have privacy. Should be room for all of them, provided that Ruby didn't *hulk out* in here. She'd probably smash the entire thing to pieces then.

After all were secure, the train would start to rumble out, and Marley would come wandering back to them, shaking his head.

"Everything should be secure now. I could've sworn though, that for a moment... No, foolish talk. Think nothing on it. It wouldn't be possible, and I am merely feeling slightly rattled. How are you finding the accommodations thus far?"

It would be a pretty simple train wagon, with some - in this case - large benches, with red cushions on, and a table one could flap down from the wall, if they so wished for it. Otherwise, one could always look out of the window, as the train began to pick up speed. Or put your head out through it like a dog, he supposed, if that were your thing.

===================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

11 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

Scarecrow noticed the pony's confusion, and decided to help out with it "She's a being of nature, she can communicate with animals and plants." his neutral tone fit his words, as it gave the impression this wasn't the first time he had to 'translate' things to ponies, not necessarily a truthful impression, but it did give a small illusion of normality to their relationship. 

Granted Lyriel was more than what Scarecrow said, but in his eyes that was beside the point and thus not relevant, besides, it would probably just confuse the pony more. 

"I'm afraid I am still somewhat confused."

"I am a Dryad. I stand here before you, with the shape of an equine, yet I rose from the ground, and follow the Earth Mother's guidance."

"...Dryads are real? I thought them a fairy tale."

The snake would slide further out, and place her heavy body upon Lyriel's back. She did not mind though. Not with such a beautiful animal, who would hold her head above the height of her own. Quite a proud one this one. She could imagine, this place had something to do with that.

She would wander closer to him then, carrying the snake with her, and let him have a chance to examine her in a little more details. At which point, he'd have the chance to see her mossy exterior more closely, and get big eyes over that.

He'd attempt to go closer to Scarecrow and do the same, but the risen wings, and narrowing eyes of Crow, brought him pause. Though as the bird threatened him, the snake would turn her head towards the *bird* and open her mouh up high, whilst hissing. Which made Crow turn to her, and raise its wings further, and prepare to let out a shriek in her general direction. Until Lyriel intervened.

"Please, calm yourselves. No fighting needs to happen. He were but curious. And my friend here is not as I. He is an evergrown. Of nature in his own way, but not the same as I."

"They are reemerging? Oh my. My several times great grandmother were a farmer when they first showed, hundreds of years ago. She were... Not kind to them. Her diary spoke of the joy she felt when she harvested them, and felt no remorse, as she did not think of them as creatures, but just plants. I know that kind of action, were a large part of why your kind retracted from equine society.

I'm ashamed of her actions, and I do not condone it, for the record. It were a disgusting attitude to have. It is good to see that your kind still remains though. What brought you back into the world? Have something changed?"

==================================================================

@Catpone Cerberus

11 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

They were happy to change the topic, though before that, Trox wanted to say something "It's very much appreciated that you promise to not pry, though It's not a secret what happened, just an unpleasant topic to talk about, and I am willing to give you the summary of it if you ask when Sheska is not around to hear." Sheska lowered her head slightly but didn't seem to disagree, Trox comforted his sister a bit as he continued "She got the worse of it and it would be wrong to make her live it through again." he let out a sigh "Honestly it could be helpful to be able to talk about it at some point." he being lot more emotionally reserved than his sister, he hadn't really had the chance to let his feelings out

"I am not a shrink, but if you want an unbiased ear, and honest opinion, I can provide that. Brutal honesty is not always a kind response, yet it can be necessary. But we will see what happens when that time arrives. I stand ready when it is, and whatever is told, will remain between us.

Full disclosure on something tangible however. If your emotions or mental state begins to cause trouble, such as lashing out against civilians, I may tamper and dull things briefly. It is in no interest for any of us, if the locals begins to connect us with violent tendencies. Though I find it unlikely, as you appear able to reel one another in to some extend, I'm merely stating a fact. One that I do not normally, warn others of in advance."

She'd offer some advice too, on more constructive ways to get some of their emotions out of their system, and deal with some of the underlying issues they had, but it didn't seem the time, in her opinion. Besides, she were not a professional. She knew how the mind worked, and how emotions worked, but she hadn't a diploma, hanging on a wall somewhere. Merely experience from life, and her own training. As well as what came from looking into other creature's head long enough. Certain patterns began to emerge, once you did so long enough.

11 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"But for better topic." Sheska finally declared "fun." though she then fell silent as realization hit her "It has been a while hasn't it." Trox rubbed his neck as he thought about it "Yeah, we haven't really had the chance to have fun since then have we." "We used to do lot of fun things with our community, but there's no community here, no young kobolds to play with." "After we left home closest thing to fun has been learning useful skills, I spend my time tinkering while Sheska studied medicine, healing magic and other such things." "All fun things we did were connected to the community, a lone kobold is bored kobold." that was the downside of kobolds' close knit communities, everything they did was build around that, so when they were separated from those communities, they became lost and sometimes even helpless. "Is there any taverns around? we could go sit down and look at these maps bit closer, they also tend to have nice atmosphere to help to forget one's worries." 

"There are several taverns. I inspected those when first I got to town, and found them wanting. But for the cleanest among them, I would suggest Bubble Tea's Inn. It seemed spacious, and welcoming enough, all things considered."

She would neglect to mention how she had then instead mind-tinkered with a mare, to stay in her house, and be serviced instead, as it would not be a good look for her. No need to tarnish her own reputation so easily, lest they began to pry. She could tell then, as it seemed minor. Wasn't as if she had harmed the mare, after all. Just made her welcome the queen into her house, and serve her food. Hardly a crime.

She would begin wo wander from this place, and back towards the noise town, wherein the inn laid. It wouldn't be far, but they did need to go down a few streets first. Then they'd eventually reach the largest inn in Ponyville. Which did well these days, regardless of potential monsters attacks, as things like the castle, lured in tourists. As did the mane 6 too, of course.

"Your kind are intriguingly close to function, like us changelings do, just so you are aware. We are social creatures, and do rather poorly on our own. It is why exile is a harsher punishment than death, for most changelings. Being in a hive provides protection, socializing, understanding, and easier food. Those who become hiveless, for one reason or another, sometimes struggle to do well. Those who do acclimate well, are those who blends in seemingly with society, but you can usually spot them, as being very forthcoming creatures, in a community. If you find one being unusually friendly, and the type to always go to places where many are, and mingling, it may be a changeling. A social butterfly, as the ponies tends to call social ones.

Not as extreme as their Pinkie Pie though. It would be too erratic to work efficiently, as a disguise.

To return to the topic, it is interesting to hear that kobolds, and changelings, have similar ideals. A community is just another variation for a hive, and though your goals in said community are not the same, there are tangible similarities.

As for your studies, I would keep those medical studies, and healing magic skills sharpened. There are usually a good market for either. It may well prove an efficient livelihood for you."

When they'd eventually get to the inn, it was a nice, rustic looking, wooden in, in two floors. Most of the top were rooms for the guests, whilst the ground floor were mostly for eating and drinking.

@Catpone Cerberus

Bugger! Sorry about that mate.  I'll get on to that right now!

2 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

@Blitz Boom
Just a question, you okay with me hinting about other characters from "the future" having arrived too? I'm not planning to introduce them into the RP (until  if at some point comes a situation where such would be appropriate(you can tell me if ever you feel like such would fit)), but just add details that imply their existence (a piece of technology, dialogue from Solar (since he would be looking into such things), odd feelings, mysterious figures, etc. ), mainly my only (current) plan regarding about it is for if/when they get to explore the prison (and collect the two bodies from there), there could be some implications that they are not the only ones in this world.

Potential chars from the future ain't so bad. We already have a few temporally displaced, some sealed for a long time, that's essentially with the mindset of the past, and some from other dimensions. Really, a traveler from the future wouldn't be so bad. Long as it's done right, and you sound like you have an idea about how to set it up.  So no worried from me.

I wonder what prison you're talking about though? I can't remember us talking about a prison at any point. Could you refresh my memory on that?

Also, regarding *mysterious figure*, the one trailing Ruby and the gang, isn't from the future. Very much the present. :3 Heh. Haven't planned that whole thing out fully yet, but we'll see how it goes.

As for the Inn suggestion, I like it. A bit of a fun clash between world's variation of their kind.  Looking forward to that.

==========================================================

@Starforce

Might be hard to manipulate one that's about 4000 years old, and have a contract that she literally cannot break.  She made sure that it was extremely carefully written, so that she wouldn't have any loopholes.

As for attempts to reform her by Operata, he'll just mention his own deal, that kept him from incarceration, but if she's not interested, he'll shrug it, and tag along, to see what'll happen. He'd find her to be a fascinating study, with a currently unwritten path ahead, as she could swing many ways. And if she then picked a bit of a harsher path, then he'd prefer to be on the good side of somepony really strong, rather than be a popsicle. If they'd get friendly? Hard to tell. Long as she doesn't kill his cats, there's always a chance.

=======================================================

@Kujamih

Okay, trying another path for the shark picture then. Holdup.

Is this better?

As for unfinished stories, there's a fair bit, aye. A fair bit involving my demonic mare up there, as players came in, started to get well acquainted with her, and then just vanished. Which in the story, is making her feel worse every time, as she tries to connect to others, but then ends up left behind and betrayed. Which really isn't helping her mental state sometimes.

@Rising Dusk

Tiny pokes for you. : 3

@Illiad Easle

There, that should be better.  She paints it in a nicer light for the foals, and have her own thoughts on it on the inside, as well as making it more ambiguous. Lemme know if this still ain't doing the job.

@Illiad Easle

I'll work on correcting things, and have most of what she thought happened, as internal dialogue.

@Illiad Easle

Let me know if I overreached with the last post, about Gemini. I figured you set it up as a *make something up* moment, but if I misread that, or went too far, just let me know, and I will have it changed.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The ponies seemed distracted by something else though, Ardee looked up, "Can... can we write on this? We... we'd like to remember at least... when the others died."

Vale gained a much more serious expression, "Yes, of course. Here, just tell me where and I'll write them in so their names will be legible." Under Ardee's direction they added to the calendar the names of their fallen siblings. Ayjay (Vale wrote out the name rather than assigning the initials they were based on) was the first, only lasting till the start of the third moon of spring. Effs was the second, making it to the second moon of summer, and Rare was the last, dying the same day that Null had found them.

That established, they decided they wanted some time before coming to a decision on when they'd celebrate their birthday.

Void had looked a bit awkward as she hadn't thought of how they might not know what dates were. Thankfully Vale had saved the day, by coming in with an explanation, yet it were still a bit awkward, to say the least. No less so, when the foals started to speak about their dead friends. It was good they wanted to commemorate the days they died, but still, it made her heart bleed for them. Poor things had seen too much death already in their lives, and it were going to leave some dark marks upon them. She knew so from experience, though she hoped that they would get off easier than that. 

It might not be a bad idea to perhaps think of a shrink at some point in the future though. With the sort of thing they had to tackle with in their lives, that might help them greatly. It had helped her at least, and likely would Null too, if she could convince her sister to go there. So far no luck on that front, but maybe with her new coltfriend, there was a chance she could make Arcade help to convince her.

"Whenever you're ready, we'll write the dates down. And when the other ones comes around, we'll make sure to do something in memory of them. There are some traditions I can tell you about, when those days near. Trojan, and otherwise."

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She didn't look too sure, "Well, we always called her Mistress, but the other ponies called her Powers."

"Gemini" Toupé spoke up, pointing to the front pocket of her coat where the name was embroidered, "Gemini Powers."

They all looked back at Void, worried expressions as they awaited her reaction to the reveal.

Void were stunned for a second, then looked away awkwardly, and fidgeted in place, as she tried to find out a way to say this. Hoooh boy, this was gonna be awkward...

"O-Okay, so uhm... G-Good news, is that I knew her. A little bit. She were in the town, or I g-guess facility, that we grew up in. And uhm...

W-Well, the last time I saw h-her, she were r-rushing over to Null and I, after we uhm... A-After the accident... That t-took my leg, and h-her wing. She saved us, and g-gave us a chance to e-escape. Your mistress was a g-good pony. That m-might have been why s-she got in trouble."

She had to take a few deep breaths after that, before going on, but she had to do this. If she ended it here, it would give off a bad impression.

"S-Sorry if I sound a l-little uhm... Nervous. Just t-thinking back on that day, m-makes my anxieties go a l-little haywire."

She didn't want to speak of how she remembered the sound of crushing bones, and torn flesh. A context she understood, once she woke up, and found her leg gone, but had mercifully been knocked out for during the process.

As for Gemini... She had her assumptions, but considering how she faintly recalled her parents talking briefly of that night, back in the day, they said that a neighbor had brought them back, and that was the only visitor they got, before a couple of others came in to check up on things later. That being the time she remembered her father yelling, though she couldn't remember what, anymore. Considering what she remembered of Gemini, and how she had been if not nice, then at least neutral to her and Null, she could imagine that it were her that had gotten them home.

Yet she had still been among those who had pinned Null down. She just couldn't remember if she had been the one with the blade, the large scissor, one of those restraining her big sister, or one of the gathered ones who watched. Some of whom, were likely medical attendees. The only ones who'd likely have some idea of the answer of that, were her parents. She were but a foal at the time after all, and it was over twenty years ago, in an adrenaline rush, whilst trying to save her sister from being grounded. She might remember some things wrong now, but had blabbered it off to her parents back then. Or they had gotten a report at the time.

Thinking back on this, brought a lot of guilt back too. What happened to Null and her... She knew her big sister blamed herself, for being lured in in the first place, and struggling, so it just caused more chaos once Void barged in. But Void would always know that in the end, it were her fault. If she had just stayed out of it, she would still have her leg, and though she would've been grounded for the time, Null would've eventually gotten new flight feathers, as she grew older, instead of lumbering around with a single wing, that made it impossible for her to fly.

That one would always be her fault. And she didn't know if she could ever forgive herself for it, even if Null did.

*sigh* This were something she had to bring up though to her again later. So she now had several things that she were going to have to bring up tonight. Considering who the foal's mistress were, it would be the most important. And one that might not have such a rosy tint to it as she believed.

(Changelings)

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin gave her a sidelong look, "I wouldn't have brought it up as an option if I had any doubt as to your ability. I may be powerful, but queens are a power all their own. I'd be hard pressed to take down even the weakest of fledgling queens by myself. Still, I'll do all in my power to make sure you're on the right path. I'll get you in contact with Oracle and Mariposa as well, it has rarely ever gone well for queens when they didn't have other queens to support them."

"I'm a pacifist, that could lose a fight to a perceptive cat. I'm sure you'd have a fighting chance, even if my moralle changes, since I wouldn't have the slightest combat training. That's one of the reasons why I honestly are feeling a good bit safer with Bruce here around."

Bruce hadn't said something for a while, but that wasn't his job to do either. He were there to protect his queen, not interfere in their talks. Rasputin didn't have to worry though. He had yet to say anything to others that he wasn't meant to, and he wouldn't now either.

As for where he'd stand on what Bling asked... As he usually said, he were there to protect his queen. As per her own words now, that included to protect her from herself, if she cracked under the pressure. He wouldn't be able to do as much as Rasputin by any mean, but perhaps his life could provide an opening.

"And I'd be happy to speak with those two, regardless of what happens. Especially Oracle. I think we have one of her changelings. You'd be amazed how many scouts ended up isolated from their hives, once the crisis started. We probably have fledglings from at least a half dozen hives in town, where we don't know the fate of their queens.

Dunno if Mariposa's one of them though. Not everyone's as happy to talk about where they came from. And a few sometimes pretend to be from more important hives, to feel better about themselves, so the one off of Oracle's might not be for real. We'll see some day."

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He shook his head, "No no, it's all right. I wrote about it in my play, but it doesn't surprise me that that part may not have been used in all renditions. Or perhaps you didn't realize that the play was an autobiography? Can't hardly fault you for that."

He sighed, "Perhaps another time I can go into greater detail, but I was born a pony, and my parents, most specifically my father, threw me out at a young age for not being as strong as my siblings. Left me to fend for myself on the cold streets of Stalliongrad. While my experience isn't the same as hers, I do believe I can understand her situation."

"The play was written by you?! I always figured it were made after the fact, by someone that liked to exaggerate, and add more to the story. No wonder Cheshire always put so much effort into performing your part, when we had it on stage.

It's a shame you never saw it. I think you would've been impressed. Hopefully she haven't forgotten it when she comes back."

Bling lived happily with the idea that Cheshire were still alive, and no one could prove it to her otherwise. As she had been a good queen until the very end, and a kind being in general, although she liked to play silly, harmless tricks, her afterlife wouldn't have ended in the flames. So Rasputin likely didn't see her. Only one who'd know the truth, were at the Blackwater Quarry, and until he'd perhaps end up back here, there'd be no way to shatter that dream of hers. Which might happen one of these days. Word would eventually have to come by now that there were safer travel routes, from some changelings who'd like to go and join that hive, that some of his siblings still lived, and kept up the traditions. He'd want to come home again, even if the news he had would shatter them.

(up to you when/if that news might come his way)

"I'm sorry to hear it's all real though. It's a tragic story, that doesn't begin well, and ends worse. Hopefully it can end up going better now, and the next play we'll make about you, will be a grandiose tale of redemption, and acceptance. I'd love to help you write that someday."

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin rolled his eyes at that, "Thorax is an example of everything wrong with the Equestrian perception of changelings as a species, though it isn't entirely his fault, he simply made the best of the terrible situation his Queen set up for him. Perhaps on another occasion I can explain my thoughts on his philosophy in depth."

"I'd never turn into what he were, but it was because of him, that changelings in Equestria, managed to go from hated pariah's, after Chrysalis's disastrous, foolish attack on Canterlot, into accepted creatures. Sure there were still prejudices, but were it not for him, we would've never been able to live openly like we did, and have this theater in the first place. Not unless we did so, forever hidden, and that was never Cheshire's dream for us. She wanted out to be able to walk in the open, and after what Chrysalis did, that seemed impossible.

Whatever else there were with Thorax, I'll always praise him, for the life he made possible for us."

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He nodded, "She fell defending Manehatten. One of the strongest queens ever to live, and even she was no match for that draconequis. Still, her defense allowed the majority of the city's population to successfully evacuate."

"Least she did not die in vain then, tragic as her loss is. I can imagine she is missed by many, including those she saved. Hopefully when Manehattan one day gets remade again, they will remember her, and put up a statue in her honor."

Sad news, yet sadly not unexpected. Many had died after what Discord had done, and their kind were not free of his mayhem either. So many drones and queens alike had died, and hives been torn apart, due to his actions... And to think that once, ponies were starting to think of him as a friend. Even if he were gone now, she could imagine that those draconmequui that were still out there, would have to hide for a long, long time, to not be hunted down and attempted killed too, because they would be seen as potentially the next Discord in action. Even if none of them were as powerful as he were.

On 2021-11-25 at 10:30 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He smiled a bit, "Perhaps you will. I hope you'll at least be able to meet Oracle and Mariposa, the latter being the daughter of Sleipnir. If fate allows you should also meet with Permu when the Æther returns, and Nirvana when travel to the Himallamas becomes feasible."

"I've read about the Himallamas. It sounds like a very beautiful place. Definitely somewhere to go visit someday, once everything's starting to be cleared out in their area, and the world begins opening up a little more. Though mostly looking forward to meeting Mariposa. Maybe as the daughter of Sleipnir, she'd have run into Cheshire, or heard of her, so we'd have some grounds to stand on there."

After this, she'd lead them on to the inn. Going in, the innkeeper - a griffon called Clarice - would point them towards the room, without a word. She were busy dusting off the counter, and clean the extra keys. Besides, she knew why they were here. They were expected. Or well, 2 of 'em were. The last one - Rasputin, likely in disguise - she didn't know about. Wasn't her issue either, long as they didn't cause problems. And Hive Cheshire had never given her problems before.

Going into the room, they'd find Penny. A stack of papers on each side of her spacious, oak desk, and five more floating in the air in front of her. She were reading over various ones in front of her, whilst pens were floating, scribbling down on those hanging there at various times, and as Cheshire opened her mouth to speak, she'd raise a hoof up. Cheshire got the point, and waited a few seconds more, until she'd nod, and float the papers into a stack in front of her.

The whole way the office she had made herself here, were as professional in look as she were. Sharp glasses on her muzzle, a tailored suit, and a strong poker face. Her eyes watched the three with some curiosity as they entered, and she could finally give them her full, undivided attention. Though before that, she'd float a small, berry sized globule of pride towards her, which were gathered in a bowl, at the side of her table. She tended to snack more on her food, than to gobble down a lot at a single time.

"Cheshire, Bruce, and I am assuming the famed Rasputin? Please, come in."

Her tone were professional and to the point too. A bit hard to read her due to it, but that tended to be a strength of hers. Made it harder for clients to know if they intimidated her.

@Starforce

22 hours ago, Starforce said:

Sounds good. I am fine with whichever character you would like to play. You had another one too, that demon one with the coat?

That would be Vivid Loss. This one.

She would likely not be a good fit, for several reasons. One being that her power is demonic, and if Magloria absorbed that, it would do to her, as it have to Vivid. Meaning that she'd be corrupted physically. Vivid looked like a completely normal pony before she made her pact, and got infused with demonic magic.

She's also by far, my most powerful character. She could crush Magloria with ease, but her contract prevents her from causing physical harm to others, unless given permission by her masters. And those two wouldn't, unless it was a dire circumstance. That also makes it hard for her to partake in Magloria's work I think, since she neither can, nor want, to cause others harm. She tries desperately to fit in to a world she have been apart from for thousands of years, and is having very little success with it.

They would have some common ground, as Vivid struggles with her mental, and emotional state. The more the world at large rejects her, the more she hates it, but she still keeps trying to fit in. Because she still believes in being a pony, more than a demon, even if she is more demon than mare at this point, technically. She would never join in on anything that'd include causing others harm, despite her instabilities sometimes causing her to smash a large area of a forest to bits. When she's not sad and thinking about her long dead foals.

I think she's a bad fit because of this. She cannot be taken in on a bad course, and she will not be defeated easily. Best one could hope for with her, is a standstill of some sort.

Anyway, to get back on track: Her plans wouldn't be against what Operata would like to join in on. He likes to make others suffer. If they deserve it. But he's flexible, and he'd enjoy the excuse *Well, she made me do it. I was afraid she'd kill me otherwise*. 

@Starforce

Had to go far back, but found it. His name is Operata Symphonia. AKA: The mad tenor. And his cats are called Sonata, and Falsetto.

As for what you wrote... I have a zebra halfling. She's just a doctor though, not a hero, but she could be one they went to look for. Maybe she'd be enticed knowing there were others like her, who actually had made it fine?

Struggling a bit to think of what she'd do, since the only alicorns, are those in the show, and I try not to control those, as I fear messing it up, since I don't watch the show.

Hmm... How would she feel about going after an alicorn I just made up? An unfortunate soul, struck by a surge of magic that's out of his control? eluded to *accidental alicornification* some time before in the RP, which is where it's not filtered right, and most undergoing it goes mad. Otherwise, after being defeated, Operata might ask into what it is that drives her, and as she tells her story, he'll ask her why she didn't get revenge on them then, as they were to blame. Why bother with randoms, since that would never satisfy her anger. They could go and hunt those down, and in the process, she might learn something. Be it about forgiveness, or how revenge won't satisfy that anger she feels. Perhaps then, she'd be willing to listen to suggestions about what else to do? I dunno, spitballing it a bit here.

42 minutes ago, Starforce said:

As for her magic, she can absorb spells and likely has a lot of spells in her array but mainly focuses on ice and water manipulation as well as transforming those into crystals, and weaponry. I am not sure how she got this magic, any ideas? 

Just say she's an advanced Hydromancer. She controls water to enough of a degree, that it too can become ice. Ice crystals for instance, of some strength. And if she can make the ice how she wants, she can likely form it to her will too, so ice weapons. Magic ice, so it doesn't just melt in the sun like regular ice.