Blitz Boom

@Sekel

"Let it come to a test then. Little filly, says what you think, when you gaze upon her."

Enzo would flip his paw, so that the filly would be in the palm, rather than being held up like a kitten. Once he did so, he'd raise his paw up so that she could gaze upon Atzy. The reaction would be immediate, as her eyes would almost start to shimmer, and she'd run to the edge of the paw, to get a closer look.

"*gasp* Shiny bug pony! Uuuuh, so pretty."

"*sigh* I swear, it is day in, and day out in this town..."

The burly bat pony had come out of a nearby building, to see what all the ruckus was about, and upon seeing this display, would let out a tired sigh, and take flight. Seems like he had another situation to deal with here.

"Sir, it's been a really long few days, so I will just be direct: Are any of you here to cause trouble?"

"Despite what you might think,, based on what I am, I have no intend of it. We merely wanted to see the area."

"Okay then. Enjoy your stay, and watch out for Blitz. She's prone to cause explosions."

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@Sekel

"I've given my word about her. I won't break it, lest she makes me."

"Krrhhhtxhhx. She means if I try to kill you, alicorn. My old queen would have liked that. The new one, I am uncertain of. She does not have the thirst.

And we found the thing you sought. It lies on your map."

It would indeed be laying in that room. Uprooted, and put in a flower pot, as she wasn't sure how fresh the delicate lotus had to be. She also didn't know if it needed the graveyard dirt specifically, so the dirt were from there, but no need to tell the princess that part. She seemed squeamish.

Cherish would flutter into sight as she saw this, and floated closer with a bit of hope muttering around in her chest. Had she still a heart that could beat, it might have skipped one there, as she gazed upon the last part of her potential salvation, from these unseen chains.

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@Sekel

The pumpkin headed one would wander over and pat the changeling queen with an even bigger, jagged grin on her face.

"Awh, isn't that cute? You think logic works on draconequui."

"Yeah, that's funny. Mom drinks from her head all the time, or smash it to freak out others. Sometimes it just kinda wanders off. Draconequui doesn't need brains in their heads. I do, and Henry too, but we're not really draconequui. Sort of? I dunno, not important."

Rose shrugged her shoulders at this whole thing. Who had time to think about logic and reason?

"Why don't you go fetch your brother, and we have a nice big gathering?"

At this, Rose would grin, then flutter off, in a north-bound direction.

"Hehe, kids. Such silly things. But I'm totally real, and the draconequus that made this place. Pretty, right? I like my island more, but it's still good.

My name's Anomaly. Who're you?"

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@Sekel

Chop would simply grunt in response, and be on his way. He had some work to get done, and should be getting there soon, as the reservations required him to begin long-roasting a filled pumpkin. Not one ordered a lot, but if it were done with a reservation, he had the time for it. Even when you included the prep work.

In the meantime, Stare would go over to a nearby drawer, and pull out a small penny pouch. From it, she'd withdraw a few bits, and lay them out on the ground.

"These are bits. They're how we pay for things in Equestria. Other countries have other currency, like dollars, chips, or silver crowns. Some trade in livestock or produce, like chickens and eggs.

If you want more details on the big system, Scarcity can say more about it than me. But anyway, in Equestria, this is what we tend to pay with. Dragons also tend to have a fascination with hoarding them. I think because they're made of gold, though it'd still a little odd."

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@Sekel @Widdershins

To prove the point that this were indeed his marefriend, Benny would turn his head, and plant a kiss on Pop's lips. Gave her a mighty big blush,  but she certainly wasn't pulling away from him. This may also help the two others see how to do this, when you considered the difference if mouth sizes and shapes, but they likely weren't at that stage just yet. At least not in public.

When they'd disengage again, Pop stood all flustered, whilst Benny had the biggest goofiest grin you could imagine a dragon having. He was really making his race proud there, or something.

"I uhm... G-Good to see you're okay again, and... Oh, hello... D-Dawn, right. Sorry, my brain needs a little reset it seems. Hope we didn't cause you discomfort? Or... Oh my, have you found yourself a nice dragon too?"

Pop gazed at Kaltrops with interest, and a little smirk. Dawn seemed to have developed a similar taste to her, hmm?

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@Starforce

"I wanted revenge at first too. It's hard not to, when something horrible happens to you.

But vengeance doesn't help us, unless it's done right. Blindly seeking to make someone else pay for a thing, will just cause us to torment those around us, not thinking about anything but reaching those we're aimed for, even if we'd trample someone down.

So I sought what you need too: Justice. It can still blind us, but we do not have to sink to the level of those who hurt us, to make them face what they've done. I have no one to blame anymore, but you do, and you will have them answer for it. But not by hurting others. You're better than that, Magnolia, and as your friend, I will make sure to always remind you of that."

Zeehva would embrace the mare again. They were both broken ponies, in their own ways, who had bad things happen to them, and wanted to set things right. Their paths to do that had been different, but ultimately, it were good their ways had clashed, as they needed one another to keep themselves stable. Magnolia from hurting others, and Zeehva from going into a depressed breakdown.

They'd need something to cheer them up here, so she'd open up one of the small vials of the Midas Tears, and popped a single droplet out, on a nearby, pony-sized stone. At first, it seemed the droplet just stood there, glittering on the edge of the top, balanced, but ultimately bound to slide down one side harmlessly.

Then it popped, and the glittering gold began to rapidly cover the stone, from top to bottom, before a dozen seconds or so later, it would be completely covered , and glistening beautifully in the sun. Too glittery to be actual gold, if you knew your way around things, but definitely pretty to look at.

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@EQ_Theta

It were hard not to agree on the part regarding the newer Canterlot, contra this older part of town. For a starter, it were more quiet, which he did enjoy quite frankly. Large towns tended to be obnoxiously noisy in the long run. And while he were more than able to just tune it out, it were good in his opinion, to not have to, in this area. The lack of nobility wandering wherever they so pleased were also good. Few enjoyed spending time with those. Doubly so as whomever they tended to look down upon, were then also gazed unfavorably upon by those seeking to gain their favor. Suck-ups, as you might call them.

It were also a more impersonal area, and despite being Equestrian - and therefor less industrialized as some other places - it still were a major city.  And he frankly missed some sense of a more rural, homely place, where one could find nature. Not a lot of nature all things considered, but there were still some here in the old town, and with the correct furniture, he could make it homely in the right way. It would never be exactly like living in the forest, but such were life. Just had to accept it, and move along.

It also gave him some more privacy, as he knew the guards frequented this part of town less, as it were far from the castle. They still did go here of course, but it were less so, than the more populated, and close to the princesses, main town.

As for what they would see as they made their way beyond this bakery, it seemed as could be expected. Less traversed by tourists than he had been lead to believe, but perhaps it were just not a prime day for it. He would have to see over an extensive period of time, to get a sense of the regularity, and timing, of groups like that. Or he could stop himself from being this way, but he considered it unlikely that he could, as he had done it for too long to help himself. Plus it passed time on dull days, if those were to return at some point in his life.

"Calling it a watering hole might be more of a saying, about it being a community hall of some kind. Or it could be the local water plant, which tends to be locked off, to avoid someone going in and tampering with the water supply. It can be hard to tell, but it is something to inspect one of these days. As is the park, yet I think we have seen plenty for now. After our meeting, I think would be better time to inspect the rest of town, though what we have seen so far is promising. I think there may be some merit to living here, beyond me being somewhat ordered to do so.

I will admit to looking forward to our second meeting with Kiba and his father later, more than our first one, if I may change the topic a little. They seem like interesting longma, who have managed to integrate rather well in this equine society. I get the feeling there will be fascinating things to hear about how that have come to pass, and their day to day experiences with it all."

He'd wish to direct them towards home for now though. As mentioned, they're would not be long until their meeting. About twenty minutes after arriving at his house in fact, judging by the position of the sun, if he saw correctly, so they had spend their time well. Met some interesting character, made some arrangements, had an encounter with a suspicious cat and a bakery- What more could you really want?

"It won't be long now. I'd suggest we share the furniture in here, and lay down for a rest until the time comes, when we are retrieved."

He'd get inside, and let the others in, before closing the door. He'd pause before locking it though, as inside, on the door, there were a note stuck to said door, with a dark blade. The note being simple, and just going *Stay silent, spy.*.

"I get the feeling Soul Prison have paid a short visit while we were gone. And not surprisingly, he did not use the door as intended. Ah well, I suppose not all greetings today were bound to be kind.

So then, shall we rest our eyes for a brief time, so we are prepared? Or would you rather we speak further of the happenings of today?"

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@Kujamih @Zombie Breeze @Starforce

Much as he might think otherwise, there were eyes on Light as he fell down, and began to limp away from the scene of his crime. Silent steps would indeed follow his path too, though the one stalking him would not be easily spotted, as they were agile, and made little to no sound.

As he finally thought himself free of all who may wish to chase him, He'd suddenly find that he did indeed have company, when something jumped out of a nearby bush, and straight at him. It were so close, that he would probably not be able to stop the creature, as it made contact with his leg, and- Crawled up the leg, aiming for his head. And if there were not stopping said creature, it would end up there, where it would get on all fours, and bend over, to look into Light's eyes.

It was a squirrel-like creature of some kind. He had webbed hands and feet though, and the ears were quite massive, going as far as the tail, and merging with lose skin between the hands and feet, which made him appear to be somewhat of a flying squirrel, of some sort. He were oddly colored though, being mostly a lustrous onyx color, with dark grey tips to give him some color variation in various places. Most notably his chest puff, and face features. And speaking of face features, Light would find that the small creature looked at him with not two, pale-grey eyes, but three. The two primary ones standing as expected, yet there were also a slit third one, going diagonally down in the direction of forehead, towards nose, gazing at him from the creatures forehead.

Besides the eyes, this were a spot on look of a Discordian Knight Squirrel. Or a mimic, as some also called them. A once assumed extinct race, that carried trace from Discord's time in power, many millennia ago, that had retained some of the chaotic changes he had done to them. This coming from generations upon generations of breeding between the changed squirrels.

As for why this one had been chasing him, and were now trying to look into his eyes? Who knew? Critters were weird, right? Or were there something more to it? It would be up to Light to figure out.

Meanwhile, back in the hospital, Blitz would reach out towards Cali, but Molotov were stubbornly holding her tightly. He wasn't gonna risk anything happening h-Oly cow!

Suddenly, he'd find that a firecracker had gone off in his face. Utterly harmless stuff, but it were enough to get him out of things for a moment, due to the shock, which were why Blitz had fired it off. It were what she had to do to be let go off. Big bro wanted to keep her safe, and she got that, but Cali needed her now, so she had to go there right away. As she would. Blitz would in fact jump right at Cali, and hug her the bestest way she possibly could.

"Don't be sad, laser friend. I'm here. We'll make you feel good again."

I will respond to things in here tomorrow. Including what you wrote, @Starforce, about new characters. Sorry for not doing so before. Real life's been distracting the last week or so.

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The young ponies had all turned their attention to Null and Void by the time that Void thanked Arcade. Arcade nodded, "It was the least I could do for her after she saved our lives. I'm equally in your debt for the care you gave my family."

"It's been my pleasure. They're all such good ponies, that just needs some stability and love."

She hadn't really had issues with them. Just some fun, and some sad things that had come up at times, but none of them were problem foals. From Piecey to Ardee, they were all rather well behaved. In the case of Piecey and Peal, somewhat relatively so, but they were small foals. They acted pretty normal with that in mind.

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

After a bit Teal asked, "So... is Arcade going to stay here with us now?"

He looked unsure, looking over at Null, "I don't know, have arrangements been made for me somewhere?"

"There... Haven't been arranged anything right now. I think."

Null felt a little bit of worry over hearing this. If he were to stay here, how long was it gonna be? A week? Ten years? If she had to go and dole out Vengeance, she couldn't stay here forever. But how long could she? And... What if she left, and he then weren't with someone else? Like Ardee here? They seemed to be close. What if she-

"I'll work on getting some space for you, and clear everything. In the meantime, you can share the room Null and I had in the workshop. No worries, the beds can easily be pushed apart. We'll all sit and have a nice chat about space and such later, when we got you cleared, okay? Also, you're both needing a health exam before you're getting to be here too much. The others had one, but you haven't. You'll be going to a proper doctor and have it done. I'd suggest mom, but I don't want to stress her more with these sorts of things, when the foal's that close to being born.

When you've been checked, we'll go see mom and dad too. They've been worried about you, you know. This whole thing scares them. It scares me too, big sis. There's a lot of things that could've gone wrong. So would you please just lay down your guard, and make sure you're okay? At least for a few days?"

"...Fine. I guess it can't hurt to have a check or something. And I'd like to hear what's been going on while I were away."

"Few things, but uhm... We'll talk about that later."

She'd have to dwell Null about Molotov sooner or later, and judging by her memory of the two, she wouldn't be pleased. She distinctively recalled her big sister at one point, taking the unicorn, and hammer him into a wall in fact, for hitting on her. And that was just one of several ways she had shown her displeasure about his presence before.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked a bit unsure, "Well, I can say we don't do anything here that would fit that description, not the sort that the Tartarus, Æther, or the Stacked Deck would. House wanted this place to be a more... family establishment. We do have some holding pens for any unruly patrons until they sober up or the Grey could collect them. But that's all I know about anything like that. I mean, if you wanted to add things like that I know of a few rooms that could be repurposed."

"Nononono, nooo thank you. I'm on House's side on this. I don't want any of that sort here. Let's just keep things as they are.

*clears throat* Anyway, thank you for the help so far Ace, and I will be looking forward to the list. Take care."

Bling would give the pony a smile as he'd leave the room. Which would probably be right after this, which would then leave this room a changeling only office. Such a strange concept, yes? Yet here they were.

"He seems like a nice pony to have a around. Knows his way around what machines does things the best, and seems very focused and efficient. We'll see. Maybe he'll end up applying for the manager position? Then again, could be he's more interested in the ground floor things. Hehe, guess we'll see.

That being said... I'm sure House told them a lot of things, but I think it'd be good if we had our own look around. It seems like I have a lot of papers to look through though, so... Rasputin? Do you mind taking the charge, and run the group on a search?"

"You shouldn't stay here alone."

"It'll be fine, Bruce. Worse case, I know my way around some illusions and trickery. I'll be okay. And in caser there are some shady ones around, I'm sure you're in more danger from them out there, than I am in here. They'll need you."

Bruce weren't happy about this, but he would follow orders, and fall in line to join Rasputin, if he agreed to run through this place. As would the others.

@Rising Dusk

Boopa the snoota. Don't worry, she's meeting a human. This is the best day ever for her.

@Rising Dusk

16 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Your filter would be appreciated.  I'm sure another agent at the O.M.I. would have a crack at it first," he mentioned.  Or at least some group being assigned to be the experts of Harrowmark.  Being driven mad by a book doesn't sound all the pleasant to him to be honest.  Waves of pleasure and pain washed over his back as the recoil of the deep massage battled with the soothing wet warmth of the towel.  "You hear that Rising, a land more fit for your function over fashion sense," his sister jibbed.  "Sensible ponies," the detective shrugged.

"Function yes, but had things been different, we might have had at least some fashion sense along with it too. But most of our resources have been going to the same place, for the last six centuries, and we've rarely been allowed using more than we were told we had. So cloth had to last. Same with produce, timber, or even gardening tools. If you removed the magic from most of our tools, you would find them rusting and falling apart from age rapidly.

The gold and art he took, can be returned, but it will take time before we have much in the way of fabric or produce to offer around. I can imagine the fields are already being expanded though. Mines too, and scavenger hunts for parts for new scarecrows will become increasingly important too. The next few months are going to prove explosive for us. *sigh* And much as I enjoy this treatment, my place is inevitably at home, doing my part in it all. Dealing with his literature is one part, and I will get to work on it, soon as the worst of his experiments are dealt with."

16 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Plenty of currency, frequent patronage and just being friendly with the staff.  Easy ways to earn that favorite customer badge," Dawn sighed delightfully.  "You'll never need worry of mother or myself being under-pampered," the younger mare smiled.  Rising lazily lulled his head in Lily's direction.  "At this specific spa, yes.  I have a local spa I visit for massages.  Being an officer of the law can be hard on the body," Rising knew all too well.  His preferred spa was popular for city agencies and specialized in such usage of a pony's body like firefighting and law enforcement.  Being pampered was perfect being kept on the rare occasion.  

Lily would nod at what she heard. She had little more to say about that, as it seemed they were well on their paths to ensure they'd last longer, by taking care of themselves. She could imagine that Rising's place were smaller, and with less abundance to it, as he did not seem the type to prefer this kind of place in general. Yet long as he had some place at all, that were what mattered.

As for Dawn, nothing she said were a surprise really. Pay for services, be frequent, and most importantly, be kind to the staff. It would make her valued customer most certainly. Especially if she also tipped well, which she could imagine the mare did. Dawn did not strike Lily as the sort who'd want her favorite spot, or spa ponies, to be tempted to take another client over her. Be their favorite, and they may well have a more flexible plan, which could fit Dawn well. Lily did not know exactly what Dawn did on a daily basis, but more than likely, she wouldn't be able to grasp it all. Many layers to this young mare.

16 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

With the warmth of the towels slowly disappearing, Rising rolled up into a sitting position.  Letting the towel slip free onto the bed before started to stretch out.  Now to just sit here all nice a pristine and glowing.  Not likely to be subjected to anything else before the cloths shopping, he hoped.  "Do take a mud bath Lily, you won't regret it," Grace recommended.  "Relax and shine your coat.  Then we'll be off for some shopping."

Lily didn't want to get up, but alas, there were more things she should be doing in here, before the time came for them to go to the market. She didn't know what they'd be shopping though. Local produce? Or did Dawn want to show her what Equestrian fashion were? Guess they'd see soon enough. Yet for the time being, she'd let out a yawn, and slowly get up on her hooves again. She felt so relaxed that it were actually kind of a struggle to get on her hooves, but she'd persevere, for the sake of trying what she had denied at first.

"I think I will then. Let us see what it can do with an old soul like me."

She'd either walk there herself, or be guided there (in case it wasn't in the room) and would get well covered. A chuckle would escape her as she gazed upon her covered form dripping with this healthy mud treatment.

"I almost look like a Boghunter. What an odd situation."

Rising likely remembered the Boghunter he had met, with less than kind memories about the darkened creature(s), aiming to swallow him whole. Thankfully nothing like that here in Equestria, and much as some darkness might come through to this side, they would not be among them. They were kept securely out of the town, and especially the capitol. He shouldn't run into another, if he stayed in Copperhagen for his visit.

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@EQ_Theta

On 2021-10-10 at 2:01 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Munchkin would stare at the refraction and study his reaction. Cats are supposedly known for being curious creatures, and this kitten was proving to be one. She studied the little creature nestled in Omen’s mane, even climbing up to the a nearby cabinet to see the creature in full. Alas, it wouldn’t last because the visitors are leaving, but it has made some sort of rival or enemy. The cat wouldn’t prod this further before returning to her pet bed and rest, satisfied at what it managed to learn today. Still, this behavior might add to what Rosa may consider puzzling, especially if it is intentionally prodding for a response from Shrimp. 

This were actually one thing he didn't find too odd. Considering Shrimps size, and the cat being a predatory creature technically, he assumed that this were her assessing whatever or not to hunt Shrimp. The climb just made it more likely to him, as cats liked high location, where they could get a good look over the potential prey below. He kinda wished Munchkin had tried to jump after Shrimp though. It'd have looked funny to see her instead get through a gate, as Omen's defense would come into play, though Peaks would likely not have enjoyed it.

The cat would be acting as such far as he were aware, but there were still some parts of him, that thought something fishy were going on with that cat, no pun intended. Though for the time being, there'd be nothing concrete. Perhaps he'd see the cat sometime when walking around town, and could try and follow it, to see if there were something to learn. Yet, that were for the future. For now, they had other engagements to think about.

On 2021-10-10 at 2:01 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“If it’s alright, I’d like to get another look at the town map and get my bearings before heading back to your home. If we’ll be heading off to our appointment soon, I won’t take long.”

“We don’t have any plans to visit more areas, but sister is right. I wouldn’t want to get lost around here. Once she’s done, we can head back to your home and wait things out. If we’ll be taken away all of a sudden, I think it’ll be best if we’re somewhere private. I think us walking around might have left some weird looks on the locals. Or maybe it’s just me expecting that? Either way, maybe let's not draw any unwanted attention to ourselves.” 

"We're getting some looks already. Less than expected, but I've noticed thus far, three pairs of eyes that have lingered on us as we traversed the place.  No confrontations though, so that's pleasant at least, and the looks could well be merely from us being new sights within the area. Nothing stands out as us being stalked, harassed, or singled out in much of any fashion... Yes, I think I could get somewhat used to this area.

But one thing at a time here. For a start, let us return to the map, and see further what might be there, that's worth looking at. The better we know the area, the more we can traverse it safely. And know the pockets we may linger in, that would not cause unwanted attention, in cases of extractions like this. If it does not happen though, I think there won't be much in the way of judgement from the locals. They seem... Openminded, to a fault. At least thus far."

They would have one encounter as they wandered back. An earth pony, that were wandering around the garden of one house, seemingly raking leaves. Soon as he saw them, he'd rush inside his house, leaving the rake on the ground. That were the end of it however. There were no accusations, or word thrown. Just some odd, slightly rude behavior. Against whom among them? Impossible to say really.

They should make their way back to the map with relative ease, lest something else happened.

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-10-10 at 12:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"What's with ponies and finding ways to prolong their lives, it's not as nice as one may think." Ruby half-muttered "Yes, we're done here, feathered male creature."

"Then we should proceed."

Marley did not dignify her renaming of him with a reaction. It were painfully obvious by now, that none of them had even the slightest amount of interest in treating him with anything resembling respect, so why bother pointing such things out? Dragons sometimes... Were he not a civil griffon, he would've perhaps enjoyed a somewhat brief, yet satisfying life as a dragon hunter. He didn't much care for their hides, but beating them up would feel immensely satisfying at times.

On 2021-10-10 at 12:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

She didn't comment further on the mother situation, mostly because ultimately it didn't matter to her, the relationships of others weren't her business, and she didn't really care either. "I do hope we don't end up finding more cursed things, one necklace is far more than enough." it was something she should look into eventually too, she knew few individuals that may be able to help with that, or at least may know someone who can, though that was worry for that time, it hadn't yet caused too much trouble.

They'd get to leaving soon after, once the small dragon had been told that they were not to stay further. So they would leave, and Ruby could get her little prize room locked up again, before they'd then finally, be able to wander out of this impersonal domicile, and towards the exit. This place needed some pictures of some sort, in Marley's opinion, but he doubted that Ruby would care to listen to him. For her, this were clearly not a home. It were little more than a storage facility, made to keep her treasure and trophies. At best, one could say her trophy room were a kind of home, but it did not seem enough in his eyes.

"You'll find that cursed artifacts of some kind, tend to be in most temples, or long buried holy site. Often they are either made by whomever held worship there, or were the center of said worship. Minor dungeons and older, civil structures, have a lesser chance of it, but they do crop up now and again. Oftentimes, they are not so bad. The sacrificial pieces left behind however, have been the demise of many an excavator. By design most of the time. Sacrificial magic is an outlawed, taboo kind of wizardry for a reason."

He'd pluck a small down off from a little below his beak as he spoke, and keep it between his talons, until they could make it outside. A lose little thing, that had been about to fall of its own. He did not wish to be anything but a griffon, yet at times, the need for preening, or simply lose feathers at random, could get slightly annoying.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"A two headed feline? Man things have I seen, or heard of, yet this is not one of them, I'm afraid. Yet if ever I meet you in this stage, I will know that beneath it all, is you. I will carry that knowledge with me, friend."

Speaking of multiheaded creatures, the three headed snake that had been napping around her neck, slowly rose up its head, and looked around, in three different directions, yawning drowsily. It's eyes would land on a few buildings, as well as objects, but all the heads would eventually focus on this twitchy pony. As were mostly the case with snakes, it seemed utterly indifferent to him, and just slid its tongues out to taste toe air, as most snakles would. Though this one had more feathers around its head than you'd usually see on snakes. All of this sunlight were pleasing to it.

"Multi-headed creatures in general is another matter, but that comes more to the one whom made him, tha-"

The right snake head would let out a slight hiss, interrupting Lyriel.

"I'm sorry, little friend. What I meant to say, is that it comes down more to the one whom made Her, and not so much whatever affliction have befallen you. Unless that too, is from the twisted mind of a draconequus? I have only met one, but they seem like very stressful creatures to be around, if she can be measured against others of her kin."

The snake were not overly talkative right now, although the right head would spare some effort to go into a starring contest with Crow. Even opening her mouth threateningly, as Crow slowly rose its wings, though neither made a sound. Crow were going to have to get some help in how to socialize with other creatures sooner or later, or this would end up being a recurring, or escalating issue.

"Both of you behave. There is no need for hostility.

I'm sorry for the interruption, Ceron. What I understand of your situation, it sounds dreadful. To share body with one, wishing to destroy you, and whom embrace a feral life, which you do not agree with.

Is there no hope of reconciliation between you though? If you must share the same vessel, could there not be some kind of peace to be found, rather than this fear and distaste. If one wanders in darkness, and the other in light, is it not just a matter of finding a place to transition, where neither would be unhappy about it? I'm sorry if it sounds like a stretch, or impossible, but I have never faced an issue such as this. As a dryad, my place is to find harmony in nature, and so, I seek that first, if it is possible. Please, forgive me if it is not, and I sound foolish to you."

Ceron were in quite a bad situation, to put it mildly, and she did not have an answer for it. As such, all she could offer, were perhaps trying to help him come to some kind of terms with the other side of him. Perhaps meet up in the dark hours, and hear the other side of this story? Surely there must be some kind of compromise that could be met. At least she hoped so, for Ceron's sake.

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

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-10-10 at 12:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Over 800 years and she just...turned around? What in the Night's darkness could have happened on that mission?"

"Imagine that one you followed blindly, as you thought that path right, told you that your next order were to dispose your brother. Your duty might well make you do so, but it would change the way you thought of the one who had given you that order. Or the last drop had simply fallen, laying on top of many other, deeper issues that she had been lamenting. If there are many, it does not take much for one to finally snap. As one who knows well how the mind is put together, I can assure you, that some just requires that little push, and everything spills over."

In fact, she had at times given that little push herself, for various reasons. She could tell how easy it sometimes were, because there were some who simply had more build up than they were able to keep in forever. Or as she said, it was a point of morale she finally couldn't oblige with having broken any further. Or it were one of many, many other reasons. What did she know? She could only guess from a few angles, but having never known this mare, it were not exactly easy to read her. Nor would it have been in general, judging by Light's machine parts making her ability to meddle with his mind impossible. She were going to assume that this were part of the general augmentation package, and be irritated by it all.

On 2021-10-10 at 12:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Oh, yeah, that's a good point." "We should get those maps now, that's why we came here right?" Solar joined in with "Let me" and without giving a chance for arguing, he would go get some maps, two general maps of Equestria, one map of the general area they were in, and a tourist map of both sizes, he would pay after Onache. If nothing unusual happened, he would pay and give all but one of the full-Equestria maps to the kobolds, on the map he kept he would draw something using his horn and few pens he had with him, after which he gave it to the kobolds too, he had drawn another map on top of the map, and with the names 'Solar Empire', 'Night-Realm' and 'Crystal North' having been written on it among other details, it shouldn't have been hard to figure out what it was. Lastly he pointed at where ponyville was and said "We're here"

Nothing special would happen. The grinning clerk seemed like she wanted to say something, but Onache made that thought go away. She were irritated enough, without somepony working in a tacky souvenir shop making small talk. She would simply lay down the bits for her ware, and then be done with this. However, she did not stop much of what would happen with Light, and so, he'd get a "Hello" and the usual "Thank you for your purchase". She just cut out the chitter chatter in between.

"I assume nothing good came from the Crystal North either then. But that is not for here. These ponies small, insignificant thoughts tire me to meddle in. Follow."

Provided there were no arguments, Onache would lead them out of the store, look to the right of her, and then go left instead, heading for what would soon turn out to be the park. A small section of it currently not being frequented by others, which is where she had lead them. Why it wasn't in use? Hard to tell, as it looked fine. Probably just too many feeding the ducks, and otherwise enjoying the more open areas around the pond, rather than these more narrowed paths through the bushes.

"Better. Within range of others, but not enough for them to hear. This is a more passable area for chatter that would alarm the small minded."

Onache were trying to be a better being, but irritated as she were, she were speaking of ponies like lesser prey again. A habit that would take some time to move past.

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

@Starforce

On 2021-10-10 at 5:49 AM, Magnolia said:

Magnolia would gently levitate the ingredients aside and put her hooves to Zeehva's cheeks gently. "If you are disgraced than I will join you in your disgrace...I didn't even know it was possible for this to happen to someone and I am sorry that it had to be you..." Magnolia sighed, feeling the tears form at the edges of her eyes. "We will see through our pains together...don't let anything tell you any different. Just because it isn't real doesn't mean it doesn't matter. Perhaps we can find someone who can reconstruct your cutie mark and your scars should you wish...but either way, I am always going to be here for you." she sobbed, hugging her tightly. 

Zeehva wouldn't speak for a little bit, as she simply accepted the hug, and tears began to roll slowly and silently, down from her eyes. So many times had she said that she were done crying, and yet a day would hardly pass, when she did not find something from which she would weep. Yet it were goo0d to have someone to weep along with, who could comfort her some, as memories flooded her, which did not bring her much joy. Of the faint sound, before it all collapsed, and the agonizing pain as she woke up in the medical facility, all wrapped up, and had to be given the tragic news. Of her scars too, but mostly of her husband, and his untimely demise.

"It c-can't be done... I asked a-around, not wanting to b-believe the zebra, but e-everyone says it's sadly not p-possible. At best I could g-get a tattoo, but it's n-not the same. Only... I-It's only the zebras who can h-help me, and I'm not ready for that. I can't... I can't l-let go yet."

Zebras could do things that regular medicine just wasn't able to, but they had restrictions they too had to work with. In their cases, oftentimes something that seemed odd, as their craft had more mysticism than pure science to it. When it came to her, the scars were connected to her feeling of loss, and longing for her deceased husband. It wouldn't be possible for her to get rid of these scars, according to them, until she had come to term with what happened, and moved on from it. Only then wouldn't there be a strong tether to her scars, and she could be made whole again.

One day she were likely going to hit that point, but it were not a small, simple thing to move past.

She'd have said more, but then the pot started to simmer down, and stop shaking. Much as she didn't want to, she had to tear herself from Magnolia, and go to the cauldron.

Inside, the liquid had drastically reduced, with only a third of it left. Yet that third, were looking like liquid, glittering gold. Calm and sitting nicely, and now, ready to be drawn up from there, and put into the large vial she had. Quite the concoction to look at, and soon as every drop was in there, she'd put a cork in, and seal it tightly. Or well, almost all of it. She's also fill two of the slim glass vials with this.

"*sniff* M-Midas Tears. P-Pour over any surface to give it a shiny, golden sheen. It's not r-real gold, but it gives a good coloration, and it s-spreads rapidly. A droplet can cover an entire tile. It's p-popular to shiny up clothes, statues, or as t-temporary coat dye. The only thing it doesn't work on, is glass.

There... *takes a few deep breaths* used to be a rumor you could turn lead into gold with this, but i-it isn't true. The recipe for that have been sealed away, long ago.

And... Thank you. I know I can be a little f-fragile sometimes, but it's good and uplifting to know you're there, Magnolia. I hope that every time you face something hard, I can do the same for you.

Maybe uhm... S-Something nicer to talk about. Want to see the potion in action? Try and find s-something to cover then."

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

@Starforce @Zombie Breeze @Kujamih

 Okay, props be to Luna, she had the right idea on how to handle Light, though sadly, it had been far too late in the process. By then, he had already pushed the shard into Cali's chest, and made her unresponsive. Molotov would try to rise up from his position in bed to join her, and if the pain had really been taken, then this shouldn't be an issue, right? And if so, he could move over. To Cali, specifically, to try and help sort out what were with her. Blitz were obviously quite worried about her, and Light seemed locked down, so this should be the right choice, yes?

On 2021-10-10 at 7:35 AM, Kujamih said:

"D-dont touch me..." Cali said with a tone deaf voice while still looking blankly from afar.

" see!? what did I told you, she's fine...phew..." Light said with a sigh of relief.

" wh-what did you do to me Light?.... I'm going to kill you for this...." Cali said in her still tone deaf voice.

" oh crap this ain't good..." Light said while trying to climb off a window.

"Blitz.... whatever happens... stop Cali for me." 

" what the hell did you do to me LIIIIIGGGHHHHTTTTT!!!!!"

Cali screamed as life cones back to her eyes...... so much life that fire and lasers are coming out of her eyes in rage.

"....ad•ieu..." Lights final words as he leaps out of the building to save his life from the wrath of Cali, also forgetting how high the floor he jumped off of.

( what floor?)

Blitz were going to jump forth and grab Cali, happy to see her special friend were alive, but Molotov would scoop her up, and take a few steps backwards. He couldn't place what it were, but even at the start, he could tell something was wrong. Her tone was off, and in his opinion, getting a foreign object inserted into a vital organ, yet surviving, were cause for concern first and foremost. It could be some sort of take-over mechanism, or corrupted magic. Light seemed happy to dabble in sacrificial magic after all, so there might be something here to that, despite him claiming it were meant to save her life.

And then, all Tartarus broke lose. Cali got angry, then Really angry, and then she started firing off lasers and fire. The doctor jumped for cover as the wall got scorched up, and hid under the bed. Molotov however, had some fire coming his way, and had to focus his magic all that he could, to keep up a protective field that'd keep himself and Blitz from getting scorched. Blitz was actually a little scared right now, but not for the flames. It were all for Cali, who didn't look too good. What with the anger and death blasting from her face.

"Cali! Don't be angry mare! If Light did a bad thing, we'll help. Caliiii!"

As for Light, he had just jumped out from a window on the third floor. This would not end up being the smartest decision in his life.

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

@Zombie Breeze

On 2021-10-10 at 5:09 AM, Zombie Breeze said:

“Yeah, especially if it's really that important to be mentioned in your report” unlike Windy, the ominous feeling in Tepe was strong as he has been lost for years now. If this so-called suspicious activity is connected to Cimex, then they might have to make a move immediately.

Razor glanced at Sorrow “I saw a diamond dog talking to a royal guard. They said they heard some creature scream nearby, but that's what I got from them”

Uhoh. This wasn't good... Neither how Tepe were, nor what Razor told them. In fact, the feeling from Tepe, were so notable, that Legion flared up, and glanced up towards him. Their voices were silent, but did it escalate, they were ready to interject, as were prudent, before they'd end up with a far more devastating spirit to this town, than Razor's wife had ever managed to be. Age meant a lot to a spirit's power potential after all.

"Tepe, p-please calm down. And Razor, you have to show us where that is. Cimex missing, and the screams, that's no coincidence. We have to go out there and find her. We brought her into this, when we went here to hide. We can't just leave her behind.

Windy, we have to leave. In case she locked us in here, help me figure out how to open it please. We should start getting to the diamond dog, if there's no trace right outside. Their noses are good. Maybe it could sniff out where she went? If it didn't have something to do with this, but... L-Let's take one step at a time."

A part of that though, would be to take some of the tarts from the closet, and eat one, before giving another to Windy. The ghosts could take one too if they wished to. It wouldn't do anything for them, but the energy would be good for the living, and the dead may feel a bit better by doing this. If not, they could then be on the way. It seemed they had a rescue mission to commence with. Good that some parts of Legion were good at various things. Might be they could help in this chase.

On 2021-10-10 at 5:09 AM, Zombie Breeze said:

A red flag was raised in the diamond dog's dialogue but it could be possible she did not really talking to guards since diamond dogs have a fragile relationship with the pony race. Or it could be possible this dog is responsible for a crime being committed. Luna was against putting the dog who call herself Pop to the investigators immediately as it had been a sloppy move done by Ither guards like her “If you have found something suspicious, please go to the nearest barracks or police station”

"I will go look right away then, miss guard pony. I find something, I bring it to you, yes? Or other guards. Pop wants to help ponies."

Diamond Dogs did indeed have somewhat os a history with ponies, but Pop were not generally speaking, against them. She got some harsh words thrown her way, but she did not retaliate. She lacked that aggressive spark that many of her other kin had. Another reason she were not well seen among her own kind. Maybe someday, when the princess made contact with more of them, things would be better. Twilight's influence did many good things for other races. Could well be, yes?

For now though, Pop would wander off in the direction the screams had actually come from. Unless the guard interjected. If the guard mare followed her, she'd lead her right to where things had happened before. The ground wasn't wet, as it hadn't rained in days, so there were no paw prints from her to go by. She'd be safe... Probably.

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

"I w-was so worried, b-big sis.  It was h-him, and you went r-right after him. And t-then this c-curse it... It f-feels weird."

"...Choking..."

Null were feeling a lot of things right now, but one of the more encroaching ones, were a light-headed sensation, as she couldn't breathe right now. Another *perk* of their size differences. And one that Void thankfully listened to, and relented her strength a little, to allow Null to take a few deep gasps of air in.

"S-Sorry. I just..."

"I missed you too, sis. But it's fine, okay? He's gone, and the curse with him. We're free."

"The c-consul said family had to t-take over for the Grey. Do we have-"

"It's over."

"Sis, don't l-lie to me. Do we have more family?"

Void would pull her sister out, and grab both sides of her face, so she couldn't look away from her. Face to face, she knew that Null couldn't lie to her. She had too many obvious signs, when she were dealing with her sister in that manner.

"...Her name is Epsilon. She were offered a choice, and I... Couldn't save her."

Void would pull Null back in again, this time for a more gentle hug, with Null nearly vanishing in her grasp. The tears she felt on her chest were one reason for her to cover her sister, so she could cry without others seeing it. Null were a prideful sort. She didn't want to be seen as weak, but this were about family. It couldn't help but hurt her, and make the outer layer crack away a little.

"But you saved us. I know you'd like to think you can protect all of us, big sis, but you can' do everything. You did the best you could."

While Null were *clearing her system some, in the warm, safe embrace of her sister, Void would look over towards Arcade,, who were having a moment of his own, with Ardee. It seems there were promises between them too. A little spark too, perhaps? They seemed to be close at least.

It were odd seeing one that reminded her so much of her sister, but maybe that had been what really helped them get along too. She'd like to hear more, but for now, she'd just wait for the two of them to be done speaking, before saying something of her own, towards the small unicorn, with the odd horn. A detail the foals certainly hadn't been kidding about, when they showed a picture of him earlier.

"Arcade? I have a lot of things I'd like to say, and ask, but more than anything else... Thank you, for taking care of my sister."

It'd be the first time Arcade had seen her, and he may have some words of his own, about how different, yet similar she seemed to Null. Not just the size of her, which even for an earth pony mare, were rather large. But also how Null and her differed in how they acted around others. Were Null were more cold and hardened, Void were more open and warm, without trying to hide things, or put up a facade. Her injuries were of course, also different, with the dark wooden back leg, and her eye, though he may not see the part about her eye, unless he focused hard, and noted how the light reflected a little differently off of her false one.

They may have things to talk about indeed, but right now, it were all a nice, big family gathering.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-09 at 8:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin fixed her with a direct stare, "I suppose you think that was terribly clever?" He considered several gruesome threats that he might lay upon the insolent changeling, but ultimately decided that his clear displeasure would likely be sufficient to dissuade any further sass without the threat of mutilation.

"Now now, let's not get all riled up. I'm just teasing Bruce, because I know this irks him. Our fun little games you know? But if it rubs you the wrong way, then sure, I will find another angle to go with. Don't wish to cause offense to Rasputin himself."

"Aroma, be civil. I know you're not one to take orders here, but if you don't behave towards the others - including Rasputin - I'll leave you here, and take Jam Hoarder instead."

That comment made Aroma's smile faint a little, and she'd stay silent for the rest of the trip, beyond a little low whistling at times. Jam and her had a rivalry of sorts, so it were a feather in her hat, that Aroma had been picked for this, over him. Yet if she were the left behind, and he were taken in her place... That would sting quite substantially. Enough to make her correct course.

Bling did not threaten, as Aroma knew well that if it came down to it, she could snap Bling's neck faster than she could formulate a word. But she did know the pressure points to ensure that the ditzy looking changeling scout were listening, and understanding that there could be consequences that did not involve fighting, yet could hurt more.

On 2021-10-09 at 8:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The front desk worker who had approached them nodded. A bit nervous, but to his credit still well composed, he stepped out from behind the desk to take position in front of them to lead the tour, "Well to start, I'm Ace, I am one of the front of house managers, in charge of keeping the wrong sort out of the casino and keeping guests inside for as long as possible by minimizing conflicts, encouraging return business, and offering calculated incentives to keep patrons gambling. I personally vouch for every member of the floor staff who are still around as reliable, honest, and loyal, because House did not tolerate cheaters in the slightest." He then led them through the same tour he had led Null and Arcade through the week prior, minus the active gambling floor and the mention of Cabinet Mare, which had been removed from it's previous position. A key difference is this time he talked about the items more in business terms rather than entertainment. Listing out which games and attractions had previously been very profitable for the casino and which had slimmer margins. He spoke well of all the staff members he introduced or who introduced themselves along their tour.

He concluded the tour in House's old office, where a number of official papers sat ready for her to review, "Well, that's about it. I hope we'll be able to work together going forward. If there's anything you need, you need only ask."

Bling had big eyes as they wandered through the casino, and followed along without a sound, nor without halting. Ace were doing a good job of explaining things as they went along, and presenting both beings, and the various floors, functions, and whatever objects they encountered. Somewhat clinical, as there were talks on profitability, but that too was important, if they were to run this place again. They'd need to run some wanted adds out, especially for a general manager and accountant she assumed, but it were good that they already had some staff. All of whom seemed nice and by the introduction, served important functions, that it were good to already have experienced beings at. And she very much included custodian workers there. There really wasn't enough respect for the cleaners, dish washers, plumbers, and waiters, in her opinion. They may seem small and inconsequential to some, but try to imagine if they weren't there. No food would be served, the place would be dirty as all hay. The pipes would be overflowing, and the whole place would be a rat-infested dumb within two weeks. You to treat those who made the wheels turn properly with respect, from top to bottom.

She did slow down and halt as they got near the theater. A small smile spread on her face, as she briefly imagined the things one could do on a scene like that. Not just them, but entertainers of many kinds. Like it were supposed to be, and had been, back in the golden days. That would be her most important project honestly. To return this place to its glory. Surely there'd be some performers dying to go here, if only they got the word out. Maybe even in Troy? If the ambassador were any indicator, they had a link with them now. Might mean they could get some of their locals here, and some were performers.

But such glorious ideas and dreams, would have to wait. For now, the tour went on, and there were more to see. Nothing with back rooms though. Or at least not seemingly hidden ones. Might mean there were none, but ergh... She doubted it. The casinos had reputations for their room for cheaters, for example. And she didn't imagine there weren't some rooms they used, or had used, for less than good things in general. Like hoarding goods that wasn't supposed to be there. Which would be a practice that whomever got the job of managing the casino, would be told were grounds for firing, if they broke. She didn't care if the casinos had all done their fair share of something shady. She didn't want to carry on that legacy.

Eventually, the tour would end in one place she had definitely never been: House's old office. Honestly, less impressive than she expected, and yet at the same time, something impressive. Nice and straight forward. made her think that this place definitely needed some personality. Maybe a few plants, for a start? Not all that important yet, but something to think about.

Uuuh, maybe one of those clacking ball things she had seen some times before? They always looked so official, and kinda mesmerizing.

"That was a good tour, Ace. Thank you for the rundown of things, areas, and your coworkers. It's good to have you with us.

I do have a couple of questions actually. First off, as a experienced worker, you probably know what kind of staff we are going to need, right? Could you perhaps help make a list of those positions, and then perhaps make suggestions on some you think that are already staffed, that might be better if they had more responsibility? If you don't know, that's okay. Just trying to get some degree of sense of what's still needed, before we could think about reopening.

ALso... Please don't take this the wrong way, but I heard the casinos tended to have some back rooms with some... Less than stellar stuff both stored, and going on. Do you know about that? Or is there perhaps someone else who does? In case there's still something there, I'd very much like to get rid of it before too long. I know a casino can't exactly be a completely moral affair, but I'd like to at least try to have a clean house, to some extend."

@EQ_Theta

11 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“With all of you showing your little friend a lot of love and care, I know you’ll do right by him. He’s very lucky to have you all looking out for him. You know, seeing all of this has got me thinking about Munchkin. I’ll see if she’s really a stray or if her owner lives around here. Maybe I might adopt her and give her a permanent home.” 

Meow!

Speaking of Munchkin, the sound of a cat coming from the front door got Stiff Peaks to look to the front entrance to see the cat she was just talking about waiting. She seemed like she walked in on the conversation at the right time. From there, she walked up to Omen’s legs and rubbed herself against the Ki’Nathar’s legs, weaving her way around. Seems like in the short time she’s seen Omen, the cat’s already feeling affectionate for this strange creature. The same cannot be said for Shrimp, but how he’d react to a cat showing up and placing its mark on his caretaker is still a mystery. Perhaps Munchkin is testing the refraction, curious to see what happens.

Shrimp popped his head out a little, and looked down towards the cat, as he heard it meow. He were cautious, and would pop right back into Omen's mane as best he could, once he actually saw the cat. He wanted nothing to do with Munchkin, even though a very low, barely audible hiss was heard. This marking how he were none too thrilled about how the cat were trying to push herself on his caregiver, yet were still too scared of cats to try anything else than hiding.

"It can be hard to say, if she doesn't have a collar on. Perhaps try to ask the local veterinarian, and see if they have any record of a cat with her description? She seems rather healthy and well kept, so it might be that she have other shelters too. Ownerless cats tend to be a little more scruffy. Depends on the area I suppose. She does not need to scrounge through trash here to find food, or go into ill fitting areas for shelter, as you are providing her with this, so she may simply be of a higher standard.

I find cats to be puzzling to understand at times, if I may be honest. Cat logic on occasion, does not seem to function like our own."

An understatement frankly, far as he were concerned. But be that as it may, she'd likely find that if the vets had no knowledge of Munchkin, nor did she have any collar on, she probably did not have a current owner. Though best of luck convincing the free roaming cat to remain mostly stationary there, or wear a collar. Really though, this might just be Munchkin's way of seeking an owner. He heard about cats aggressively adopting themselves before, so why not?

11 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“You say you’re going to be residing here, mister Rosa? Well, let me tell you now that the first morning batch is always ready by 6 o’clock, on the dot. The restaurants and cafes around town come for their orders early, but there’s a batch of freshly baked bread for anyone hungry.”

“Thank you for your time, Miss Peaks. We’re looking forward to coming back.”

“And thank you all for visiting. The same goes for you, little Shrimp!”

"I shall keep that in mind. Until next we meet, Miss Peaks."

Rosa would do a formal bow, and begin to move towards the door. This had been a productive meeting, and a place he'd memorize for sure. Though he'd maybe to see if he could find another route than what the cat had lead them. He'd need to map things out in this part of town to be able to do so, but the more paths, the better. Might be he could find one that were faster. Of course, flying was the fastest way that he could go, but it wasn't always best to fly places. If for example say, you needed to remain undetected.

11 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“So, Rosa, I take it you’re looking to get some new tools? Lin and I don’t ave other plans, so we’re good with wherever you want to go next.”

"I don't really have plans, no. I wanted to know if there were areas like this, but I still need to have my finances in check before I can re-acquire a set of workable tools.

In an ideal world, I could simply lay up my belt, and be done with it. But sadly, that will not be the case. I have two employers who relies on my skillset now, and as such, I must prepare, and remain sharp. But that will come in due time. For now, there does not seem to be a lot of time left for us to enjoy, before the meeting. Might I suggest that we do not linger in public when we are snatched away? I get the feeling the creature who handles our transportation, will not aim for subtlety.

That being said, we can likely enjoy a brief trip to the park. Often a meeting place for many local creatures, in various towns. Though if you'd like us to take it in fully later on, we can always just wait, and return home for now. Or do something else entirely. As you have access to many areas,. perhaps there is a place you think would be prudent for us to visit?"

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

@Widdershins

"If... If I burst into flames, I'd die. O-Or worse."

Cover Up had a tick at his eye as he said that, as the image of himself, covered in large spots of bubbled, burnt flesh came to mind again. He did his best to just push it aside, but something told him that he were going to have nightmares about this for some time to come. Maybe if he focused on something else for now, it'd be better?

"And uhm... T-Thank you for the compliment, sir. I don't know how to do a lot of things, but I've always had a talent for painting. When I got my mark, my mother made this brush for me, and my father the ink well. I've been painting since. Mostly on creatures. These tribal marks, that Equestrians call tattoos, are interesting to make. Not a lot wanting them around here though."

With his art done, he'd direct his brush above it, as the magic going over his horn changed from pale black, to pale white. And as it did, the brush would absorb the ink he had written on the ground with. Once it were all gone, it would go to the ink well, and deposit it back in there, before the large cork got stuck in it once more.

"I uhm... C-Can also take ink, and some black paint off of things. I'm hoping to be good enough to work with colors someday, but maybe that's just a dumb d-dream though.

Do you... B-Burst into flames a lot? Is that a thing for Kirin? I never heard of your k-kind before, so I don't know these kinds of things. Sorry. Nothing like you live, or unlive, in Harrowmark, or around our town. W-Well, the ruins of it now, I guess."

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

@Widdershins @Sekel

12 hours ago, Widdershins said:

"I-i was..." Kaltrop flustered at Dawn Streak's interjection. "Only commenting on his actions. Constructive criticism. 

 A-anyways, You sure do know alot about Ponies, Benny. It's a long tradition of dragons to keep to their own cave and territory. Guess you flew pretty far to find a hoard of your own then." 

"Ooooh, you meant He was judging. Heh, whoops. My bad there. No worries though sir, I don't take it all that hard. Draconic pride, and storied experiences with ponies, can get some of us a bit antsy, right?

And I guess I know my fair share. Been living here for a few years now, and it's going fairly good. Helps I'm not rhe isolation sort. My mother owned a teritory with a lava and hot springs area in Dragon Land, and got used to having others seek out the area. Long as they paid her tribute, she'd allow it too. Kinda like a hot springs here in Equestria. She also liked having her kids close, so we're a tightly knit family.

As the baby of the bunch though, my siblings sure likes picking on me more, but it's mostly not meant in a bad way.

So yeah, used to socializing some. Went here mostly because of my marefriend though. Picked up a letter in a bottle at the beach one day, and found a pony were looking for a pen pal. Figured I'd humor the pony a bit, and maybe have some fun, but we actually hit it off pretty well, and eventually decided to meet. Things just naturally evolved from there, and now I live in Canterlot. Not a future proof home, but it should do fine for the next few decades at least.

...Okay  I kinda lied, I do hoard figurines. Just find them rather pretty."

The other guards tended to be surprised when they came around and saw his collection, but Benny didn't mind showing off the various ones he had gotten hold of over the years. Sure it got him marked as a geek sometimes, and it might not always be meant in a good way, but that was no reason to get all fire and doomsday on them.

Moving on to the next subject at hand, would be Kaltrops' companion, who apparebtly had gotten to know the dragon, through sheer stubbornness. He could totally buy that, since this mare seemed rather head strong.

"Ain't just us dragons that are stubborn. Some ponies can be unwavering too, and if they set their target on you, they'll push along. Or do you mean actually, literally charging? Cause man. That's being really direct. Did you hold something she wanted?"

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

@Starforce

"The world have many sides to it. Most are lucky enough to not have to see the ugly underbelly. O-Or something like that. I just mean that things are more complicated, and less black and white, as some would like to think.

And yeah, alchemy requires a steady hoof, and conviction. It's not just putting herbs in a pot, and stirring. There's procedures, rituals, and sometimes even songs to sing to the mixtures. It's a very odd profession. Very satisfying if you do it right, though.

The same eay I'm sure Fright feels, when she helps someone in her temple. I dunno why it isn't more widely known, but perhaps she just likes it being for those who truly needs her, who'd then be told from others that have been there? Maybe it's to avoid those who'd just come there to be rude. Draconequui isn't overly loved by equines, in general."

At the questions about her cutiemark though, Zeehva felt silent, and looked away. She bit her lower lip, trying to think of what she should do here. Just explain? Ask for privacy on the matter? Flat out ignore it? But then that would seem rude. Especially over what Magnolia likely thought was a small, simple question.

After contemplating for about a half minute, she'd make a weak nod, and then pull up her dress, so that Magnolia could see the cutie mark. Or well... She'd see a drawing, of a droplet in four colors going downwards. It eere draw upon a large patch of scar tissue on her thigh, that seemed to have been nade from one of the more serious wounds, after her hoise fell down on her.

"B-Back when our house fell down, I got most of my wounds to my legs and torso. The biggesr is this one, where a piece of thw chimney tore in, and... A-And tore my cutie mark off.

It can't regrow on this barren skin. And I can't be rid of that, until I learn to move on with my life. Until then, I'm... Disgraced. I drew on it in a vain attempt to regain something lost, two months ago, when I wallowed in sorrow. More than usual. But it's not real. Just a memory of something else I lost."

She'd fight the tears on this one, and as some managed to escape her, would instantly raise her hoof to dry them. She did not want to cry on the ingredients, and contaminate them. Even when discussing something sad, like this.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

It were pretty simple things she had them do, with preparations for dinner, and making sure that knives were kept out of reach of the small ones. As they could not semi-fly and use a bit of magic, she had to keep that in a drawer until needed, and even then, keep a close eye likely, but she would, and they'd proceed with things nice and calmly, until their guests would arrive.

(Null)

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The Consul sighed, "Until recently you and your sister were still paying the debt incurred by your ancestor to Phi. I fear it will still be many generations still until the full debt is repaid. The debt could very well be until the family line ends. Gods do not typically make fair deals with mortals after all."

"Like I said: There's many gods, and for better or worse, some of them are aware of Void and I. Bound to happen when you start meddling enough. Same goes for demigods, but they're not high enough up the food chain for this. Might be one can link us though. Unfortunately have at least one who thinks somewhat fondly of us. Including one we accidentally freed. A fair few lot more who'd instead like us burning in a pit. Guess we'll see who's still alive and kicking."

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He raised an eyebrow, "The fact that the two of you no longer suffer the curse is proof enough that you are free from Phi's bounds. You and any future descendants you have are safe, provided they don't enter into a new agreement with Phi, but for now they are at the same risk of getting bound to any other god. Regardless, I can see I won't be able to dissuade you from this goal. I wish you the best of luck."

"If she dies, without descendants, Phi would search down the line, and find someone that'd say yes. You said it yourself, that he wasn't gonna let go of this family that easily. Neither am I. Just gonna have to see who's the most stubborn then."

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He sighed, "Before I became the avatar of Vengeance, the Grey held the mantle in interim, and were entrusted with Nibiru to assist them. Keep in mind I was a unicorn back then, not even an important one, so when Karma chose me to be the avatar... Grey Mane was less than pleased. He refused to fall in line and take orders from me. He cast Nibiru out, at midday, in the middle of the desert."

Nine added commentary "We can't survive in direct sunlight for long. It burns us in the short term, and will kill us with enough exposure."

The Consul continued, "As such we believed that Nibiru was no more. The fact that they survived is quite the feat. Perhaps more likely is that another specter has taken their name, or they had split themselves prior to getting cast out, whatever the circumstances it doesn't change that Epsilon has potentially accepted Vengeance, and I'll need to go and initiate her properly."

"Guess you have your own family mystery to sort out there. Hope for you it's the real one, and not just a pretender. Who knows? Maybe he got stuck to an animal that came by, so he could get some shade. Whatever it ends up being, he best be treating Epsilon right."

"That's not just killing, that's torture. Bloody disgraceful. Might be I'd sincerely want to kick you in the face more than once, but that ain't meaning I'd leave you stranded like this. That's some petty, cruel behavior."

Null had wished death for quite a few, but killing them via slow torture, were simply going too far. She hadn't the foggiest about what be going on with Nibiru, but least she knew that Nine wouldn't be treated like this. She'd never go to such depths. Even if he was a massive twonk sometimes, and could use a throttling, but so were she. Guess they fit together in a way then.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He chuckled, "The love the two of you share is blatant, even if I weren't empathic I'd've seen it from the top of the wall." He stood from the table, "I'll have a guard escort the two of you over, I think they'll all be excited to see you. Follow me."

He led the way out of the dining room as servants moved to clear off the table behind them. In the foyer he spoke to a guard, one Null might recognize as the one she had told about Elef's vampirism. Regardless, she recognized Null, and came over to them, "Good to see the two of you made it out safely, the foals will no doubt be happy to see you again."

"Keep it to yourself. I don't want to go waving a flag around over this. Let's just get going. I'm sure sis is halfway freaked out about this whole sensory thing going on."

She'd follow along with the consul, annoyed that apparently, it were obvious between Arcade and her. She did not like being read like this. Felt like she were being scrutinized for some reason, and that were not something that usually made her feel all too comfy. Sure Illiad seemed so far like a good stallion, but this were a long time, ingrained kind of thing. Arcade were the only one she had opened up mostly full too, beyond her sister. Though for them both, she had tried to avoid talking about her self-destructive nature, or suicidal thoughts too much.

As they finally went along, she'd recognize the guard alright. Seemed she were still alive and trusted, so that had to mean that she were doing well with Elef, she'd imagine. That was good. She hadn't thought much of the foals, as she had been busy with all other sorts of things, but it were good to see that he were likely taken care of too. Hopefully eating his friend hadn't made him a total wreck. Which admittedly, was a weird thought to have.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade spoke up, "Did they-"

The guard held up a hoof, "They are all fine, more than fine even. Elef has practically been wholly accepted by the other thestrals here, and the others appear to be thriving under Void and Vale's instruction and care. Still, you'll get to see for yourself soon enough."

With that she led the way out into the city, taking care to stick to the less common roads until they stood in front of the building the foals were staying in. "Well, here we are. Go on in, first door on the left. I'm sure you can find your way back when you're done."

Sounded indeed like Elef were handled well, though it surprised her to hear he were presented for other thestrals. Null had assumed they'd all be hidden away, more or less. But they were socializing? She'd have to ask her sister how that were going. Probably good. You could always count on Void.

Wouldn't be too much of a walk either, before they stood at a seemingly regular building, without anything really standing out. Probably for the best, all things considered.

Null would barely have gotten the direction as to where to go in there, before she were on the way. At first just walking determined, but then eventually setting into a run, and not halt until she were over there, and almost barged through the door. She hadn't been away from Void this long before, and she really wanted to see her again, okay? Sue her.

Though she didn't go that far. She'd halt, and rise her hoof up so that she could grab hold, her heart pounding away in her chest. And meanwhile, inside the room, Void suddenly stopped, as she were almost done chopping the blackroot, and looked around. It was odd, but she almost could've sworn she felt... No, that was impossible. It'd be days still, right? Wasn't exactly a short trip, from what she understood.

And then, Null opened the door, and wandered in. The two would lock eyes, and for a moment, there'd be nothing. Simply silence. Yet the moment would quickly pass, and Null would rush towards her, meeting near the kitchen, in a tight embrace. Neither were saying anything right now, but even though Null were being near crushed by her sister's muscular grip, she didn't care. She were just grabbing hold of Void as best she could, with a smile on her lip, whilst her little sister cried silently, with a big, happy smile of her own. They'd get to talking soon enough, but right now. They needed to have this moment first.

Normally Void would run over to her sister too, but she still had a little passenger that she needed to think about here, so she couldn't just do that.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"You'll do."

"Oh, I so love being underestimated. It makes me all tingly inside."

Aroma let out a small giggle, and wriggled her eyebrows at the king. She knew as well as him, that he were stronger than her. But that didn't mean that she, or the others, were useless. Not even Twitchy Pete were a bad pick when things began getting heated, though he had mostly been picked due to him being proficient at detecting traps, magical and physical alike. His paranoia also tended to help in not falling for obvious things, so that was useful for their predicament as well.

"Don't hassle her advisor."

"Is that what they call them these days?"

She'd smirk at Bruce, who even for a griffon right now, did not look thrilled. But they generally tended to butt heads. Frankly, Bruce were only joining because Bling had asked him, and she had always treated him with respect, and kindness. Even when he staggered halfdead into town, and frantically were swinging around himself, delusional and thinking he were still being attacked. He'd ended up attacking her when she approached, but she never held that against him. She understood the position he had been in, and when she came to, her first question were is he were okay. He'd go to any lengths for her. Including tolerating Aroma.

As for her, she mainly joined because she were bored, and this sounded like fun. That she could annoy Bruce at the same time, were just icing on top.

As they moved into town - Bling placed in the middle - Nightingale would direct them towards the best route possible. Which included a surprisingly large number of open streets. Yet as she said, the side alleys were often points of attack, and general turmoil. It had gotten even worse now, so it were best to avoid most of them. Though there were a few places where she had them go through there still, to get a more secure path towards their destination. It were not a short cut really, but the point weren't getting there fast. It were getting there safe.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Scout."

The Basher froze, and turned his attention to Rasputin, "Ah jeeze"

"Go home."

He looked conflicted for a moment before he turned and left the alley, grumbling to himself the whole way, "Un FREAKING believable, I CANNOT believe this. This is a real freaking embarrassment."

Rasputin sighed once the Basher was far enough off, "That colt... If I hadn't promised his mother I swear." He shook it off and kept moving, getting them to the casino without any further issues.

"You know those cases where you're curious, but at the same time, you're pretty sure you don't want to know? I think I'm having that sorta moment right now."

As Basher had confronted them, the various changelings had reacted in varied ways. Nightingale and Aroma just stood still, whistling slightly as they looked at their *guest*. Nightingale was not surprised there'd be one on their path, as one were bound to, with a larger group like this, but she did not know this ones affiliation. So she'd just sit where she were, and be a cat, on Aroma's back. Twitchy nudged towards Bruce, thinking this were about to become real bad news, and Bruce stepped in front of Bling, narrowing his eyes at this one. Less intimidating as he was looking like a griffon youth, but that could change, if this one did not back off.

The whole thing were resolved by Rasputin though, who seemed to know this one. They had questions, but for now, it were best to go on. Although Nitpicker would have said something, had they not started to wander along, before he could write something down. It would have to wait for later, it seemed.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin stopped the guard, "You see, we're the new management." He motioned for Bling to show the deed, upon which the guard would nod and step aside,

"Apologies, go on in."

Inside the casino the house lights were on, lighting everything brighter than usual, as a few members of the odd staff milled about cleaning and doing general maintenance on the place. One of the ponies at the front desk looked surprised to see them, "You're the new management? I was told to expect changelings... Though I suppose you all could just be in disguise. Would you like a tour of the facilities? To meet the staff that's still here?"

Bling were still baffled that this were real. But the casino indeed looked closed, and the deed gave them access as it were presented. Were this really happening? Gosh. There'd be a lot of things to handle here, she were sure of it.

Going inside, Bling's face lit up a little, as she saw the clerk. She remembered this one. Always seemed like a nice pony when she had come around rarely, or heard about other changelings interacting. It would be nice to have this one around with them.

"No worries, we are changelings."

She'd prove this, by dropping her disguise. The others - Rasputin perhaps not, and only into another costume, looking like a changeling drone, or something - would follow troop, one by one. Except Nightingale. She'd stay a cat, and lay down, tail waving and letting out a big ol' yawn.

"If you don't mind, I like my costume for now."

Aroma wasn't gonna argue, and rose a hoof to pet her fellow changeling. Nightingale had to focus to not purr, but she managed to get through it, and simply just laid there, observing from her kin's back.

"And we'd love a tour, and to meet whatever staff is here. And don't be worried. We'll run interviews with whoever is still working for this place, but unless something goes really bad, I don't think there's gonna be a ton of replacements. It's nice to have experienced creatures, knowing what they're doing.

But please, would you mind showing us around? Let us know a little about what's here, what's gone, and just you know, generally have a nice view of things. I never really took a big tour of this place before."

He probably knew who Bling were to some degree, even if she hadn't been here much, since she didn't gamble. She were all around town, helping out with other changelings, so it were hard to not have seen her at some point. As well as hear things, but it depended on how much you cared about the local changelings.

@Sekel

"I suppose it cannot hurt to go there. Though I doubt they would fear you. I'm a more visible threat to them."

He would let out another sigh, then swoop down towards the town, and as could be expected, there'd be a panic. Most ponies would scream and run for shelter, or hide under things, whereas only about a half dozen in the area he landed, seemed ready to cause a fight. He did not much care though., Enzo did not think those he saw as threats. Just more short-sighted, irritating creatures. *sigh* What was the point in it all?

Then suddenly, as he were about to simply let off his passengers, and then slump down in the middle of the street, he felt something tug on his left front leg. And when he looked down, he saw an odd filly. Hair like a strip of fire, and a tail looking as if explosions were frozen there. Yet most remarkably to him, were what she were doing: Hugging his leg.

"Yey, giant kitty!"

A few around looked mortified, but unable to go forth. Except for a small mare, with a coat like charcoal, going forth to try and grab the little one. Yet she were too late. By the time she got halfway, Enzo had already taken a paw down, and tugged on the filly's stretchy back skin. He'd lift her up gently, until she were face to face with him, and he could gaze into her small, grinning face. The ones around seemed to hold their breaths, horrified at what were likely about to happen to the poor filly. That being despite Enzo not looking angry, just tired.

"Do you know who, or what, you are speaking to in that manner, tiny equine?"

"A squishy kitty. Boop!"

And with that, the filly just went ahead and booped his nose. No pause, no hint of fear at all. She just went ahead and booped him. And then just hung there, held between two of his fingers, and laughed her innocent, joyful little laugh. Right into the face of a sphinx.

Enzo blinked befuddled, then the sides of his mouth began to rise up, and a glow began returning to his eyes, as he let out a bellowing laughter. Highly confusing those around him, but causing this odd little filly to just go in and hug his nose.

"Ahahaha. Such innocence and wonder."

It were just so mindbogglingly silly, that he could not help being uplifted by it. Among a town of beings wanting him to leave, there were this one, who just came over and acted as friendly and welcoming to him as any other. Even toyed with him, as one might their friends, without even thinking about what it usually meant, when a sphinx came near. Had this been in the sphinx capitol, this filly, and her entire family, would have been imprisoned and educated in who their superiors were, but for Enzo, this were simply amusing, and helped him get out of his stupor.

It were wondrous what a little spark of that wide-eyed thrill and curiosity, that he felt like he had lost so long ago, could do to brighten up the day once more.

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

@Sekel

On 2021-10-06 at 1:46 AM, Sekel said:

"You fought for what? Something unknown? A reason lost to generations?"

"We fought for loyalty. Everypony that went there, a thousand years past, volunteered for their task. There have never been, nor will ever be, anypony as loyal to the night throne, as the Shrine Maidens. It is the same devotion I bring to your throne, your majesty. Doing less, would be a dishonor."

It were all she'd have to say, lest she were asked for more details. But she had the feeling the princess didn't want to know right now. Though she were a curious sort. In time, she'd want their history. And depending on how she were, she'd either be horrified, or understand the position that Princess Luna were put in, when gathering them all, so many generations ago.

"Kkrthxxg. Intense, aren't they? Stubborn little equines."

The two of them would exchange a death glare, before looking back towards the princess again, and hear what else she had to say.

On 2021-10-06 at 1:46 AM, Sekel said:

"Regardless of all that. While you are both here with me, I want you two to not duel each other to the death. We've already got one ghost here and I'd rather not add more!"

A chittering, laughing sound came from the manetid, as she heard this, and would then point one of her bladed arms towards Last.

"Kzzlxth. Had we dueled for death, there would only be one of us left now. We just let out tensions."

"Hmph. If I duel tot he death, there will be death. This was just exercise, and I will expect anypony who joins your guard, to be prepared for things like it. I don't know how the others guards are in the capitol, but I will not accept weakness. I will make them a force that can protect you, and this town properly."

Twilight should have really thought on things, before making Last her captain, but the dice had been drawn, and it wasn't like Last were going to flog somepony. She were just going to pretty vigorous in her training, and some were bound to fall off. Probably expecting a cozy role, just loitering around. Hmph. Not on her watch, they wouldn't.

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

@Sekel

Really, it were supposed to be pumpkin latte in the pumpkin, but as she took the ladle down, and poured a bowl, rather than a cup, she'd find that it were now soup instead! Steaming warm, and just what she'd hope it would be. Provided what she hoped it would be, were nutritious, and delicious.

Flaxxy and Lulu would pick a bowl and a cup respectfully. The changeling would just smell it though, and set it on the table, whereas Flaxxy would start lapping it up like you'd expect a canine to do.

"See? All good and healthy. Mom! I think they like the taste. Stop hiding."

Out of a nearby bush, a creature would wander out, and bounce towards them. Well, most of a creature. It appeared to be missing its head.

That'd last until it reached the table, grabbed hold of the pumpkin, and turned it around, revealing a jack-o lantern face. As soon as the pumpkin were then set up on her neck, eyes would blossom inside it, and it would animate. The grin growing wider, on the attempted friendly face.

"Well duh, of course they like it. I'm delicious, hehe.

Welcome to my home, of chaos and creation! It's awesome right? Come ooon. Admit it. I've done really good here, and barely anything got out. Except for the stuff I made in the forest, but those are mostly harmless. Okay, princess weren't, but I dealt with that problem. See? All responsible and stuff."

She'd spit out a long straw, and bend it to fit into the top of her head, where she'd then take some good gulps of her own pumpkin juice. Yummy yummy, for any tummy.

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

@Sekel

Chop Chop responded to the compliment like he did much else. A small grunt, and a nod. He were cleaning up after himself though, so he'd return to that, so he could get ready for work soon.

"Chop thanks you for your compliment. Life hasn't always been easy after he was bit, but he's still a great cook. The scars can't take that away from him, and it's fortunate that Straw doesn't just judge him on his appearance, like others did, when he sought work.

As for wealth, it means a lot of bits. Our family used to be rich, and have become that again, but nowhere near as much as Scarcity, I think. Her antique store is pretty popular with the nobles and other well off beings, since she have a great reputation for only selling quality wares. And for knowing how to deal with customers well. Which isn't always easy with nobles. They can be pretty high strung and snobbish.

She once told me that *Most nobles are bubbles of arrogance, coating insecurity and jealousy. I succeed, because I cater to their ever-present want for more, to prove they are better than those around them, whilst protecting their little bubble.* She does not think highly of them, but as she says, she doesn't have to like them, to sell them things."

Once Chop were done, he'd put what he used, beyond the plates and utensils the two of them were using now, back in their cabinets and drawers. He'd then come and give Stare a loving kiss on the forehead, which she responded to by then rubbing her head against the side of his. Afterwards, he'd give a small nod, and a grunt, towards Dazzle, before leaving.

If she had something to say though, she could do so before he left. He could probably answer something briefly, before moving along.

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

@Sekel @Widdershins

"I didn't mean to judge him, miss. Really sorry if it came out like that."

Benny gave a jovial, yet embarrassed grin, and rubbed the back of his head with his right hand. Looks like he stepped in it again there, eh? Well, wasn't the first time, and likely wouldn't be the last one either. Sometimes, he just sorta stepped in it like that. But hey, no harm, no foul, right? Seemed like he weren't being physically attacked yet, or really cussed out. Why, they even sounded like that wanted to meet a dragon pony couple! That wasn't always the case, unless it were to speak about them being unnatural. Hopefully that wasn't the case here, but only one way to find out.

"But sure, we can meet up with her. Come on, her store's just down this street."

If there were no issues, he'd lead them down the side street, and towards a rather well sized store at the end. A nice looking one with big windows to really showcase the rows upon rows of beautifully packaged, and presented, candy in all its many, many variations. From hard to soft, in many, many colors, sizes and shapes. The sign outside, went *Circle Pop's Candy & Confectionary*. At the mare in question herself, were currently outside, waving off someone carrying several gift baskets along with them. A rather large looking stallion, who'd give them a nod as he passed them by.

He wouldn't say something unless asked though, and would simply be on his merry way, whilst the mare who had waved at him with a happy smile on her face, would instead fixate on Benny approaching her. She'd get a certain light in her eyes as she did, and would run over to tackle him. He stood his ground, but he certainly felt the worried impact of that welcome.

"Heeey, don't be worried here. You know my scales are about as thick as my skull."

Her face were against his chest scales, but the comment still made her lift a hoof, and push him on the nose as a response. Silly dragon and his silly comments.

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2021-10-06 at 5:07 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Aww… He can talk! A lot of ponies will find that hart to believe, but you’ve pretty much convinced me, little one! He’s special, that much is true. I know it’s not my place to tell you what to do, but you look after him, alright? Treat him well, but don’t spoil him. We don’t know how things’ll turn out, but it’ll be interesting to see how he’ll grow.”

“We will. Thank you for these carrot balls, too. Shrimp really seems to like them.”

"I think he will be big."

Omen had no real frame of reference as for how big they might get, but she were probably going to outlive him, so she'd get to see thousands upon thousands of years of him evolving before her very eyes. He'd grow big, he'd grow mighty, and in time, he would grow old. If he were like regular dragons, he may end up living tens of thousands of years. But she were effectively immortal. Not touched by the last four thousand years at all, which might indicate that she were more or less eternal, lest something odd happened, like Discord unravelling her. Though after her being settled in for so long, could he even do that? It were hard to say, but there were a lot of time to answer that.

"We still need to set some boundaries so he isn't over-spoiled, but he is but a few days old now. Let him experience joy and curiosity for a little longer, before we set too many boundaries. I can assure you at least, that he will be safe. No harm will come to the little guy."

The hoof nibbles were gentle like a kittens, and mostly just from a creature without many other ways to communicate and play instinctively, than with malice. A good sign too, since Peaks was a new face, and he tended to not like new ones, but it seemed them being around other creatures so much, were making him tentatively interested in them. And when they then gave him tasty treats, that meant to him that they were friends. Though as none of his friend group here involved dragons or griffon for example, he'd likely still hiss and be defensive around them. Considering his relations with cats too, a sphinx would likely cause him to go into a panic, but what were the odds of running into one in Canterlot?

On 2021-10-06 at 5:07 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’m not sure if I could point you to the right place for camping gear. There’s a general store at the town square that should have some supplies. If not, there’s also a recreations store in the area. The latter mostly sells sporting equipment, but they occasionally have some of the more outdoorsy stuff. They might just have what you need. Worst case scenario, you probably would need to go to the newer town, but the things you’re looking for will be expensive. That one, I’m sure.” 

"I don't mind wandering around at the various places, to see what essentials they may have. If need be, I will traverse further, but as a resident of this part of town, I do believe it best if I attempt to purchase as locally as possible, to help the area thrive. I can assure you, that we will meet again on occasion, with that being one of many reasons. Other being the craving for good baked goods at times. The days I've woken up, craving a properly made croissant, or a cinnamon bun, is not a low number. It's comforting to know a nearby place to wander then."

While he spoke. Omen would finish eating her cream puff. The texture were odd to her, as she did not generally eat many squishy things. More solids like rock, or crumbly like coal. She were undecided on if this were something she liked, but perhaps she would learn more from seeing how Hammond would react. Brother may know better than her, if this were good.

"IN any case, I thank you kindly for the advice, as well as directions. I will look forward to the next time we shall meet. Fare well, Miss Peaks."

"P...Ph...Fheeks!"

Shrimp tried himself to say her name, and actually got relatively close on the phonetics. The P was just causing him some issue right now, so he went for the easier F sound.

Omen would not move an inch, before Peaks were done with Shrimp in whatever fashion she were currently, and when the time then came, she'd start to move away, whilst he chirped happily towards Peaks. He liked his new friend, and her tasty treats. Hopefully he'd see her again soon.

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

@Starforce

"It is admittedly a bit of a tame threat for most, but for those who wants to run a legitimate business, it can actually be detrimental to have your license revoked. If you're just in for it for personal reasons though, or already deal with shadier individuals, it doesn't really do anything. But there's not really anything else they can do, but bar them, and banish them. Going further is seen as too barbaric for them. It's the same in Equestria, though at least here, there's the chance you may get turned into stone. Or banished to another world. Equestria can get kinda harsh on their enemies really."

She'd look at the pot, and take a few steps further back. This was going to go on for a bit, and she'd prefer not to stand in the liquid popping off inside, and making the cauldron shake. Thankfully she had made sure to not do too big of a portion, so it should not be able to tip over. Though she stood ready, just in case.

"It could be worse, but it tends to scare novices when they see this, and they go meddle with the pot. Big mistake. It's just mixing properly, but there's some volatile things in there. It makes it a tiny bit unstable, but it's not too serious. Just... Gotta give it around four minutes. Once it stops moving, it's done. I think you'll like this potion actually. It tends to be something that catches the eye.

There's potions for just about everything really. Like... Yeah, I suppose, he's a special one. A zebra I knew in Zebrica, that went out a year ago, to fond his fortune in the big world. He wasn't bad really. Never harmed anyone, but he uhm... Used his alchemical skill for promoting fear responses in others. Stuff like making fumes that made those around think his skin was melting off, or things like that. Not to try and invade anywhere. He's a performer at heart, and for some reason, his fascination, is making scares. He tended to creep me out, but he were pretty liked by the local shaman. Apparently, it's a rarely followed, traditional artform.

I'd show you some of that too, but I don't know how to make those things. It was above my paygrade."

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

@Starforce @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

Hee better be able to explain, because seeing what Light had just done, the entire room were just gawking at him in disbelief, uncertain about what the hay they had just witnessed, and what to do here. Did they call the guards, since he had just stabbed her? Ask question? Run for their lives, screaming like somepony threw ice down their spine? What kind of reaction were meant for this? Everything just froze, and even the medical equipment and notes the doctor had been floating around, were clacking to the floor, as he lost the focus to be able to keep them floating.

Well, Blitz knew hers at least. She were not gawking, but instead trying to go from reaching out after Molotov, to reach out after Cali. And as the gawking and confusion went on, she finally managed to wriggle free, and would rush over towards Cali.

"Cali? Caaaaaaaaali? Are you okay? Don't be hurt, human friend!"

She'd poke if able, and nudge the mare, unsure of what were going on, and actually for once, looking a little worried. Why wasn't Cali saying something? And where were that spark in her eyes? She seemed so... Broken. Like the cord had been yoinked outta her.

"What the f- Hay?? Dude, did you just stab her? I thought you two were pals or something."

Molotov were not one to throw the word *dude* around a lot, but this just really felt like the correct time, to just bust it out there. What else was he going to say, to this display of outright crazy, popping off right in front of him? *Oh bugger, what a spot of bother.*? Nah man. This here called for something special. And explanations. Preferably before the doctor got out of his haze, and would run to get the security guards.

@Starforce @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

Seems like you two have a plan, so that's good.  We'll run with it, and see where it leads.

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

A small thing for everyone though: I will be postponing my writing until tomorrow, and then have that work into the *every second day* schedule, so it's Thursday, Saturday, etc. I wanted to write today, but while at work, a knife slipped, and I'd like to give my finger some rest for the evening. Nothing major, just ain't pleasant to type with, and the throbbing is distracting. Tends to get better the day after, so gonna go back at it tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Vale nodded, "I thought as much. Being a pilot still uses the wings, but not in the same capacity as flying, so it'd be something she could do without reminding her of who she doesn't want to be."

"The idea just gets better and better, the more you think about it, doesn't it? I'll make sure to find them, and ask them if they'd be willing to meet with her, once everything's cleared. I'm sure I can find some sort of literature on this though, that she could read too, in the meantime. It never hurts to be educated about something, before trying it."

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The foals were certainly curious, though they had enough self restraint to not go rooting about in the bags themselves, as such the note was left undisturbed along with the food, only getting stared at by the foals unless something was held out for them to take.

Peal elected to lie on Void's back for a quick nap after her curiosity about the bags was satisfied.

The rest of the ponies trotted over soon enough, done with their game they were ready to see what was coming next.

She'd not take out something yet, but the little rascals would have something to look forward to soon enough. Even though she almost did, when Peal began having a little nap on her back. It was simply just so adorable, and really warmed her heart since to her, it meant that they felt safe around her. That meant a lot, considering the sort they had to deal with in the past.

It also meant a lot that she were doing this in the first place, since it reminded her of the times where Null had done the same. Oh how she looked forward to seeing her sister again soon. Such tales she must have to tell, of her mission. Hopefully she were okay, and hadn't gotten through this with some kind of new, major injury, though she'd prefer not to think about that. The worry just sadly weren't so easy to let go of.

"Now now, I know you're all curious, but we'll get to dinner soon enough. I need to prepare something here first though. Could one of you please get me a pot?"

She'd pull the thing she had in mind up from the back: A gnarled, bulbous root, as dark as charcoal, and the size of a small ball. Had this been fully grown, it would have easily been at least three times bigger, but she had elected for one of the smaller ones, as it took less time to boil. Had it been one of the big ones, it'd take upwards twenty hours. This one could be done in three. Which were still some time, but it would be worth it. Though that were only if she wanted it whole, which tended to only be the case for stews, where this came in after fully prepared, and sat there for a while to soak out a nice flavor into the dish, before getting discarded. She were going to chop it up though, and have it simmer peacefully, along with a few of the reeds she had use din the past to stir a pot. Could be done in an hour like this.

Blackroot were a harsh one to work with. Hard and chewy like a pair of clogs, if it weren't done right, and tasting like the inside of a gym bag, laced with chili. It took patience to make ir work right, but if you had it, you'd get a chewy, very meaty vegetable, that were abundant in nutrients. And the best thing were, that it were fairly common in the desert. Just had to look for the seemingly dead bushes with a red, leathery flower near the ground, and you'd have your target.

She were planning on having it served in a mush, that'd function as dipping sauce for what else she were going to present. Of which she had plenty other things to get to work with too as well, but first,. it were getting a pot, and then show them how to properly chop this up into small cubes. Which considering how hard it were, would require her to ask them to stand back, whilst she slowly, and with great effort, went through the motions of cutting this one out.

(Null)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The shadow wings retracted and returned back under the Consul's natural ones, "That is certainly news. Typically agents of Vengeance, such as you and I, receive a Shadow Specter to serve as a connection to Vengeance and as a link to the powers granted by the same. Nibiru was the one granted to Grey Mane when he first founded the Grey, it became bound to the same curse and tradition as the rest of the family, but does not cause it. Epsilon accepting Nibiru in addition to becoming the Grey Mare most likely means that she has agreed, like yourself, to serve Vengeance. If she decided to stop serving Vengeance, Nibiru would leave her and seek a new host, but she would still be the Grey Mare."

He sighed, "I have tried to destroy the Grey, but fighting against those loyal to a god as ancient as Phi is no small task. You were lucky enough to get disowned. I don't think Phi will be easily convinced to release the last member of the last family that serves them."

"It's a big world, and there are many gods. You'd be surprised what some of them could be convinced to do, for the right price."

The Consul were widely aware of things, that much was pretty clear, but Null felt like she had seen enough to know some things he didn't. Including the location of various gods. Though she'd need to revisit some of them, as it wasn't all who'd have kept strong over the last few years, as lesser gods required constant worship for power. Stronger ones, could do well with what they had for centuries before losing even a small amount, and the truly great ones, cared little for worship. It were little more than acceptance of their superiority to them. Though those gods tended to not care much for mortal matters, unless it directly involved them.

As for the situation with the little inner partners of theirs... Well, she first off were not a fan of how Nine had popped out, but the alternative with how it looked for Illiad were worse. Perhaps it would eventually go that way for them too, once they had more of a symbiotic relationship? Well, they'd see. Might not be so bad or whatever. She were frankly more interested in the contest though, where they talked about what were going on, and who she had to hunt for. That she were also part of vengeance's little passe though, were unexpected, and frankly, irritating.

"As for Epsilon, I'm not happy she's part of Vengeance. But that's her own choice. My target is Phi. I'll figure out some way to deal with whatever kind of god that thing that is. Don't care she says we're disowned. She could die without having any foals of her own, and it'd get passed on regardless of what we think. What about if Void had foals, and they'd end up taking the deal? Or-"

She'd cast a glance at Arcade and blush, looking away quickly again, with her eyes turned away from them both.

"A-Anyway, she's still blood, and she needs saving. She's not looking as rotten as he were. Not yet.

What's this about Nibiru though? Why does it sound like you thought that one was dead?"

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He nodded, "Yes, the Scout, we'll do what we can to apprehend him, see that he is properly punished for his crimes, but he is one of the most successful killers in Equestria's history. I could go on about his exploits, but I doubt you brought him up because you were interested in hearing his history. Although... if you decide to continue with Vengeance now that your personal vendettas are resolved, you may be assigned to deal with him."

"There's still a lot of bad blood to deal with out there, and some of them, are gonna be some I personally would like to see pay for their little games. The job's not over just because Grey Mane is. Least I don't think so. I... We, are gonna have a talk about that later."

She'd look at Arcade again when she said this, but her blush were diminishing rapidly, and she kept her eyes on him this time. This were going to be something she'd want his input on. Personally she'd think she had only just started what were probably a long term commitment, but with how things were going, he had to be heard too on this. Sure he'd given her some input on his stance thus far, but with there being an option now, they had to talk it over. She hoped he'd think it was good they went out there though. She had a world she'd like to show him, even if it was torn up, and looking a little rough right now.

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He went to take a drink from his mug, then looked into it and sighed before setting it down empty, "If that's all, I think it's high time you saw your parents. No doubt you want to introduce them to your coltfriend before you marry him." He smirked.

And there he went, aggravating another blush, though on this, she'd turn to look right at him, with somewhat red cheeks, and narrow, annoyed eyes. She wouldn't outright threaten him, but that came down a lot to the fact that she could now be annihilated by some of his magic, and she wasn't feeling thrilled about that idea. So she'd be more thoughtful in her response... To a certain extend.

"That's none of your... Grrr. No, I'm not going there first. I need to see my sister, and Arcade have a family to see too. Where can we find them? I'm pretty sure you haven't gotten them somewhere in plain sight,"

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He sighed, "That said, I trust your judgement that she would be a good fit for the position. Provided her pride can be kept in check. What we'll need is for her to come to you, offer herself for the position, rather than have you ask her. Besides, there may yet be a better option among the ponies here in town, and integrating with a few trusted ponies can only help our image in town. My reccomendation would be then, once we've examined the property, to send out an advertisement for the position, make sure she sees it, and wait for her to come to you and ask for it. If she doesn't, then we'll no doubt encounter a number of willing applicants we can try in the mean time. I doubt that everyone who worked in the casino before were killed, so those who remain would no doubt be grateful to get their jobs back."

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin nodded, "Best to go while the sun is high, disguised, and be back before it sets. I'll meet you out front once you've gathered those you think would do a good job."

"Oh, I wasn't going to kick everyone out of there. Most of the workers are probably lovely beings, who'd do an excellent job. I just think we need a little less of the more uhm... Sadistic sorts, that tend to sometimes crawl into these places. And I like your idea of how to get to her. I was planning on just go there, and talk it out with her. I wasn't actually gonna beg her, just offer her a chance to do something I know she's good at, long as she knew there were a layer over her. Yours is better. She's gonna have to swallow her pride and apply like everyone else, and I know she does. She may have too much pride to beg for a job, but she has even more pride in her own abilities. If she thinks she can do better, she'll chase after a chance to prove that, over her little thing with me.

Pride changelings are a weird sort, but it sounds like you know well how to deal with them. I disagree though, that giving someone praise means you owe them something. I see it more as acknowledgement of a task well done.

And speaking of a task, I have some changelings to gather up. I'll see ya soon."

She'd spin around herself in a little pirouette, and then wander determined towards the door. There were a lot to do now, and she had to get to work on getting it done, before the sun set.

It'd be about twelve minutes, before she came over with four changelings, and a cat. The changelings were not wearing clothing like those of Hive Cheshire, but they were still distinct in several ways.

One had a large gash on his back, showing that apparently, one had attempted to crack him open sometime in the past. The scar going over his right, blinded eye, as well as the various ones on his legs and torso, also told of the fact that it had not been a short amount of fighting he had done. One of their few guards, and likely their most intimidating too, as he on top of this, were also a large, burly fellow, carrying around a large, curved axe. Immaculately clean, of course. He did guarding around where he were needed, but it was rare he had to bloody himself.

The second were a smaller, shifty looking changeling, looking at Rasputin with a searching gaze, analyzing the king now that he could see him up close. Rasputin had likely seen this one do so from a distance other times before, with a notepad in hoof, but he had not approached or said anything to the king previously. He still wouldn't talk, on behalf of him missing a tongue, but he would greet with a proper bow. Normally they'd communicate in writing, or hoof language when it came to him, and it did well. He still had his notepad, as well as a fanny pack, with something unseen weighing in it.

The third were a regular looking changeling. Not damaged like the first two, nor overly concerned about Rasputin. In fact, she seemed a little like she were in a haze. Though Rasputin weren't dumb. He could likely see it was an act. Made everyone think she were just a ditz, going around doing nothing. Yet she were one of their best infiltrators. A profession with not too many uses in this place, but the things she saw and heard sometimes. As well as did, but Bling very specifically did not want to know. She had asked once, and gotten a sudden, very predatory gaze from the changeling for a brief moment. She got the hint that some things, she were best of not knowing.

The fourth changeling were wearing round, brown glasses, and had some saddlebags, in which one could see some various things, such as rope, and crystals. He also appeared to be rather nervous, and would react on various sounds by turning his head towards them quickly, to see what it were. He wasn't much worth in a fight, but when it came to finding traps, his paranoia tended to actually help them. His old hive had tossed him out for being unproductive, though in this town, he tended to work on security systems here and there, though he only did that for a little coin when needed. He did not like dealing with businesses here in town often. A lot of potentially scary ones there. He'd be rather close to the big guy, whom seemed to give him a small degree of comfort in his presence, though the big one seemed utterly indifferent.

The cat were a little beige tabby, sitting on the back of the ditzy mare. It were obviously a changeling, but this one were good at hiding that little fact, so most regular ones, wouldn't know. Something this changeling took great care in making sure were the case, as it helped to sneak around without issues. This were the changeling who had yearned to get to a high spot in town, and now that the status of the hive were suddenly about to get up - and because Rasputin were here, and she wanted to know more - she were being around to be extra helpful. Since the siege, that were by mostly delivering food around. She knew all the good places to be, and not to be, so she were perfect for the job.

"Okay then, that should be them all. In order, this is Bruce, Nitpicker, Aroma, Twitchy Pete, and the little one here is Nightingale. She'll make sure we'll get there safely.

Now come on everyone, in disguises."

A flash of colors later, and the five that had not changed shape, would have done so. Bling looked so utterly mundane that nothing really seemed to stand out, Bruce were looking like a guard, while the rest just looked like locals, or tourists, that had come at a bad time. A small clearing of the throat from Bling later though, he'd change once more, and now looking like a standard sized, bored teenage griffon.

"I don't like hiding my axe. We'll look like easy prey."

"I know you worry, but we'll get through this. Just hide it like you usually do, and we'll get this done with quickly, okay? There's some good, hidden paths we can take to stay out of sight."

He'd grunt, but put down an illusion spell to make the axe just look like a backpack, and put it on his back.

@Windy Breeze

Ginormohug to you!

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

@Twilight Sparkle

Oooooh. We're celebrating? Do you need fireworks? Perhaps something more explodey?! *enthusiastic filly laughter*

No worries princess. The fun stuff's all new, so it won't leave another scorch mark on the palace! Probably. Only like a 12% chance, and that's basically safe!

*lights the fuse* Fire in the hole!

@Randimaxis

The poking will commence, until the slumbering beast awakens. That being you, Randi. You alright?

@Rising Dusk

9 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

Dawn chuckled, "A fair assessment Lily.  Equestria's population at large would easily be considered novice, if not even blow that.  I would less question their skill so much as their drive.  Just less reason for such intense studies."  "That is changing," the detective piped up with a grunt as spa pony hoofs went back into his back.  Events in Equestria's recent history has spark a growing interesting in the study of magic.  Nothing too over the top or extreme, but noticeable enough the royalty approved the opening of the O.M.I.  "So maybe in a few years, we could see an increase in silver use," the mare with a plan tapping her hoofs together excitedly.  For Rising, that just meant more work.

"You'll need what we have then. Increased magic use, will mean more will inevitably begin to practice dark magic. It is a school that will attract those of dark intentions, and there will always be some, no matter how joyful a place seems. Though, for the sake your own sanity, I would recommend you ask another to read the tomes I specifically can offer, Rising. If you would forever be able to remember the horrific details in those pages, it would drive you mad. Though I suppose, I did offer to give you a copy with less details. I could simply do that.

Yes... Give me a few months, and I'll be with you."

She knew she promised someone that... Was it Dawn or him? *sigh* She just couldn't muster the effort to care. They could have one each.

11 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"What a culture shock indeed," Grace hummed.  She couldn't fully grasp the concept or shocks that the two countries difference in magic could be.  Only able to focus on a language she could understand.  "Many ponies in the rural areas tend to such fashion, if even bother with cloths at all for the purposes of their jobs," the differences between the urban and rural almost in their own cultural rules as it was.  But between Manehattan and Canterlot, the pegasus only knew of the city life.  "Well darling, we'll be sure to give you a taste of what we have to offer," she affirmed.  The next part of these journey Rising wasn't looking forward to.

"It's natural to us, to wear clothes. Even if ratty and threadbare, we should have it. Harrowmark have a lot of swampland, and bitter winters. We need the warmth most of the time. It also helps hide our scent from what might lurk out there. We know most of the creatures we could face, but something new sometimes rises up from the muck. It can be interesting to watch, after we struck it down, but we don't keep them. Have to make sure to burn them. Only way to make sure it doesn't get up again."

She spoke of harsh things, but she were utterly, completely relaxed. Her muscles felt like they were melting, and a sensation of joy like she had never felt before, were swimming calmly through her being. *sigh* This were living the good life. She'd miss it when she had to go home, but she had a responsibility to fulfill. Though once connections were made, it wouldn't hurt taking a trip over here now and again, to get this feeling again. It'd likely be good for her back in the long run too. She did not find it thrilling in the end, with how gnarled and locked up she felt at times.

12 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Monthly," Rising replied to Lily's inquiry.  Although, just the massage, and he visited a more local massage parlor rather than zapping across Equestria to Ponyville.  "I'd say every couple weeks or so, or just when I need one," Grace offered her own input.  "I lost count," Dawn sighed happily.  "Ms. Dawn has a slot booked every week.  Or we also do house calls for our favorite clients," the head spa pony pipped up.  Stepping down from her massage on Dawn, she tapped her hoofs together and the other spa ponies did the same.  They ended the visitor's massages and another spa pony wheeled a tray over with a stack of hot, wet towels.  Each spa pony taking one and folding into particular shapes to fit each of the group and place them on their backs to send the soothing warmth throughout their worked muscles.  "Enjoy," the head spa pony sang and they departed so the group could relax and recover.

Clearly not an issue for Dawn and her mother though, as both mother and daughter seemed to go frequently to these things. They would have a healthy body going into their older years if they kept this up, and frankly, that was for the better. Though really, with how good this felt, it might be the long term effects were more of a secondary thought, than the primary one.

It was a shame when the massage ended, but it seemed they were on their next part of the treatment, which appeared to include warm towels on their being? Peculiar, but it was a delightfully cozy feeling, so she weren't gonna argue with it.

"I do wonder what favored client she may refer to. Perhaps the one whose more than likely pouring quite a nifty bit of currency into this place, hmm? Trust me though, you are doing a smart thing. Take it from one whom have likely lived longer than you both combined: You do not want to enter your twilight years, with soar muscles, and aching limbs. It is not a pleasant time to begin with, and things like that, will not help.

What of you, Rising? Are you only here when they make you? You don't want to end up like a huddled over prune now, do you? It's important to think of these sorts of things, before they get too late. Unless you plan on dying before you get that old. I always assumed I would. To think how it ended... It's almost funny."

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2021-10-03 at 4:16 PM, EQ_Theta said:

"It’s alright. I was able to get a feel of the bits your friend gave, and my apron’s still dry, so there’s nothing for me to worry about. And as for your little friend here… he’s getting something healthy with a bit of… well, not so healthy ingredients. I went with air frying the dough balls to reduce the oil. No way am I going to give that to a little creature like yours. Might irreparably ruin its health. I can't say I've ever encountered a refraction.”

"You likely have not. The few we've met who are even aware of them, speak of them as being pretty rare. A shame really, considering how pretty they are."

It were curious how a being from their world, ended up having eggs, that came to another world, to then be picked up by one of Omen's nieces, and given to her. A lot of chains in that whole thing, that simply seemed odd, and made Rosa wonder some of this displacement, had something to do with their rarity. Had a large number of eggs been taken elsewhere, by an outside force? Perhaps intentionally? It were hard to say without concrete evidence, but it likely didn't matter much to Shrimp right now. All he knew were these large, strange creatures, and who he could trust. Details on his species were well beyond him currently.

As for trust, normally he would snap out towards those who got too close, or at least hiss, but the treat had put him in a very good mood, so when Peaks went over to try and pet him, he'd rub his head against her hoof, and let out a few melodious chirps between bites. If she kept on for more than fifteen seconds, he'd nibble her hoof playfully, as he thought this were a sign she wanted to play. And for him, playtime, involved teeth. Seeing how he were only just about the size where he could wrap around a regular pony's hoof though, it were harmless. Especially since hooves were sturdy. It wasn't a nose, for example.

"He must have enjoyed the treat even more than I thought, Usually he bites and hisses at strangers. The first few days I knew him, he went between begging me for my food, and hissing at me, or biting, when he wasn't hungry. He'll grow up and get talkative in time, but he's rather... Feral, at this stage in his life."

"He can talk. Shrimp?"

"Ohme!"

He'd utter the word, then either return to nibbling on Peaks' hoof - if it were still there - or would rub his face on her mane, affectionally, before returning to his treat.

On 2021-10-03 at 4:16 PM, EQ_Theta said:

"Glad you all enjoyed it! Hey, if you all just want to spend some time to rest, there’s a park right in the town center. It’s a lovely place to relax while getting your bearings of the old town. Lots of tourists there on some days, but that’s where some inns are built. Every convenience all in one place, unless you’re looking for some place specific. Maybe I could point you to where you want to go?”

"I can't say that we are. So far, we are merely getting our bearings, and follow advice on where to move on, place by place. It wouldn't be a bad idea to get a view of the local park quite honestly. Though I do have a question: Do you have any place in this part of town, dealing with things such as survivalist gear, or camping equipment? I'd enjoy the option of a proper, out of town trip now and again, and it wouldn't hurt to replace my old gear."

It wasn't so much tents and the likes he meant, but... She didn't need to know what he did with the sort of things he could find there. It wouldn't be the best, and they had already taxed her patience enough right now. Could be harder to keep innocent though. He could have asked for places he could buy weaponry. That he'd not try and ask about, as much as find it himself, on a day there were time.

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

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-10-03 at 9:47 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Also, I'm not necessarily that enthusiastic about purposely seeking out Discord, he may be considered good, but he's still as annoying as rest of his kind." 

She then addressed Marley "Are you sure she's still in the hospital? If I remember correct, she had plans to spend time with that not-so-secret lover of hers." "Though regardless, if we didn't have anything else planned, may as well go see her again, who knows, maybe there's more business to conduct." 

"I suppose you're right. It was just a minor thought too, to try and get something done. But it sounds like there's more meaning in going with the bird."

"I do have a name. Have you considered using it?"

"I would, but then I wouldn't get to annoy you as much."

She'd wriggle her eyebrows vague at Marley, amused by his obvious annoyance at the degrading way he were referred to. She couldn't help it though. Wind aligned dragons were a teasing, joyful sort. The same place where the suggestion to mess with Charir came from, were also where her interest in poking at Marley were. It were part of her nature. And also part of why her father had been eaten, but y'know, he kinda asked for it, by going too far with it. In her mothers place, she'd probably have done the same.

"As for my employer, she will be unable to spend much time with her associate, until his *dear* mother stops pestering his existence with her presence, or someone manages to find what dark chest she have hidden what remains of her heart, they will be separated outside of seeming professional settings. And there is not a tournament yet. As such, if she is awake, she will be possible to conduct business with. I'm certain she knows of some location that she had meant to examine, that she'd be willing to share, considering your gift for telling where things of monetary value are.

Are we done here though, or are your brother needing more time to admire the trophy room?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

Crow would let out a growing, annoyed cooing sound, and lift its wings up halfway, in a threatening stance.

".Pardon Crow, but I don't know that word. What is a *Lycan*?"

Crow had some innate knowledge of various stuff, from when he were formed, and among them, were the myth of the lycans. The beings who under the gaze of the moonlight, would change into something feral and often violent in nature. Their inner beast made manifest if you would. Nothing of the sort were something that Lyriel had ever heard of, with the closest being changelings. Though this were far from those strategic, multi-form emotion eaters. This were a full on, physical and mental transformation. And depending on the lore it could get quite rough, for both the one undergoing it, and everyone around them.

"Whatever it may be, I cannot say for sure if we've met. Many are the animals in the forest, and none yet have spoken of being a pony in the daylight. It sounds like you become a predator of sorts? A wolf? A bear?"

Crow made some more noises, looking still none too pleased about this, but that were more or less a given it seemed. It did not appear to be overly happy when it came to stuff that would affect it personally, and a beast in the forest might. It did not like other predators feeling superior to it.

"Crow claims wolf... Are you perhaps related to what happens at Howler's Den? The animals speak in great fear of that area, when the moon rises high in the sky. Not something I put blame on you for. What you go through, it sounds as if it causes you great discomfort, and worry. I can imagine you fear you may hurt your fellow ponies? A tragedy if that were, and I can understand that concern. You have my sympathy, friend.

Perhaps I can help you some evening? My presence is soothing for many of natures children. It may be that I could help soothe your feral self, and bring clarity to your troubled mind?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

Now this one were more interesting, in a positive way, for Onache. Rather than the dismal traitor for a bad cause before, this one had seemingly turned around, and become a highly dangerous individual for both major empires. Knowledgeable in how it worked, and fighting it with brutal, heartless efficiency. It were perhaps not a rosy story, but with how that other world sounded in general, this were likely as good of an ending as one could expect.

"What a peculiar one, Scorch is. The worst nightmare I can imagine the empires would have, with her knowing so well how they work. To think about the damage one such as her could do, with whatever cause drives her forward now, is alluring. Yet actions are one thing. The reason behind them another. I take it seeing how you claim she cared for her subordinates, it may be related to you and yours, in some fashion? Surely there must've been some method to whom it were that she killed, over others of you? A common trait in the dead, beyond the lack of a functional heart.

Also, could we finish this talk elsewhere. I have had to work mind games here for the last ten minutes, as this talk draws attention. It gets dreary to do so whenever one of them hears something that alarms them, or makes them curious."

This were a fairly popular tourist shop, with other customers. She had assumed they realized that the reason no one approached them with questions, or called the guards on them, were due to her adjusting what went through their heads at what they heard. Some repression here, some altering of thoughts that would have lead to annoying actions there- The usual stuff for a mind bender like herself. And she could easily keep this up for days more, but it were still annoying her, and could easily be dealt with, if she were to simply purchase this item, and they could then leave. Which she would, provided there were not an issue. The clerk/owner were closely by as it were, so it would not take long to go and speak with Knick Knacks. A green mare with multicolored hair that looked wild and unkempt, along with a big, impish smile on her face. She almost radiated joy and hospitality... How droll.

If the others had no further to say, Onache would quietly go up and pay for her mug. Sure she could steal it, or have it given as a gift, but she didn't stoop so low for a mere mug. She had her standards.

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@Starforce

"Well, the good thing is that Silver Vine isn't found in much of Equestria. It's being handled when it pops up, and otherwise what there is, is kept in small pockets here and there. It is sadly not something that can just be eradicated though, as it is an important component in various medications. Iron deficiency pills, heart medication, and various sorts of stomach bug cures too. It's needed, but it's a balancing act to have it usable, but not overwhelming. So far, they're doing it well. And hopefully it will keep that way.

Also, please don't try and think of weapons you can make via alchemy. It's considered taboo. The zebra rarely exiles some of their own, but conspiring to make alchemy for the sheer purpose of war, or harming others, will have your license revoked, and sent away. It's even rarer that one manages to overcome their exile, and return humbled, but it have happened a few times. Others... Well, if they didn't care about the rules already, they don't care about not having a license, so sadly some of them are still out there, merrily doing that sort of thing. It's disheartening really."

The mixture would change color to grey behind them, slowly, but surely. Once the pot was full of that color, Zeehva would grab the gnarled, debarked stick that she used to stir with, and slowly stir, as she instructed. Once to the left, four times to the right, and then two times to the left, before pulling out the stick. Every rotation having to be roughly exact. And once that were done... Well, it started to rumble, and the liquid began to go into an array of erratic colors, that sparked around, like it were made of fireworks inside the pot. It'd also start smelling like a locker room, that had been cleaned in old raspberries.

"Just... Try to ignore it. It's fine. For the love of the ancestors though, don't put your hoof into the pot."

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@Starforce @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

"Oh come on, it ain't loaded. It's a toy. And I'm trying to get some help in before this guy's a puddle of blood on the floor.

Seriously, what were you thinking, Light?! Sacrificial magic is forbidden for a reason. Don't care if you used a good version. This stuff's nasty, and it always costs somepony. And you''re bloody well looking like you're about to die. You're literally bleeding outta your head! A lot too."

Without the grenade thrown, there weren't as much of a fuss. The doctors mainly figured that Molotov had been clocked by somepony, as females had been there, and he had a reputation. So it would be a few minutes before a doctor would check in on them. A greying, yellow stallion with parchment white hair, and a pair of elegant, narrow glasses. Likely mostly meant as reading glasses.

At that point though, the grenade would have activated, and the puff of pink smoke would pour out, along with the fart noise, making for a weird display for the doctor to gaze upon. Though not as much as the stallion seemingly bleeding out. That would get the old stallion to move quickly, and use his horn to pull various bandages, gauze, sewing kits, and so forth out of the cabinets in here. Depending on how severe it were, he'd just do a quick patch, before calling for nurses, so they could start a blood transfusion. Which would include him asking Light what had happened, and what his blood type were. Repeatedly, whilst checking his pulse, and the wound(s) to see if things got worse.

He had chosen a fine place to start bleeding. But maybe having done this in the first place, and especially without warning, were what most would consider a very bad idea.

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

@Loud Opinion

The shark mare listened with fascination, as Limbo told her what various things hair could do. It making you able to fly? Oooh. Such a strange, strange thing. She had not yet seen a pony use hair for flying though. Maybe it were something special, they did at special times? There were so, so much more to learn about these odd creatures she were now one of, it seemed.

"H-aaaaair. Hair. Hair for... F-lyyy... Fly. Hair for fly? Ponies very special. Can I learn to fly with hair too? Looks like pony, so must be like pony, yes?"

She were filled with curiosity and wonder, and frankly, as odd as what Limbo said, she'd take it as factual, until she knew otherwise. She wanted to learn after all, and that meant listening to what these many, many smart ponies said. That was the only way she'd learn to be a smart pony too. And now she had to know how to fly with her hair too someday. None on her tail maybe, but she had long, flowing hair on her head. Was that enough? She wanted to ask, but then Limbo acted odd. Turning around, wandering in odd patterns. And then, she sped up.

Her ears perked as she saw this, and she went into a happy, playful grin. This pony were friend, and friend could chase for fun. Must mean that now, it were time to chase! Fun fun, like with the fishies, but without the eating.

So she'd rise up from the ground with her wings, and start to fly after Limbo. And Limbo would find it were not easy to get away, as she were surprisingly fast. In fact, if she didn't slow herself intentionally, she'd catch Limbo quickly, but where were the fun in that? The chase were fun, so the chase must last longer.

"Hehe. Gonna catch you friend."

@Starforce @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

Bit outta nowhere honestly. O.o But alright, if that's your want, we can make it work. Say she had to go and do something. Like, a calling she heard, or she got sucked through a dimension rift thingie. Plenty of options. And then we can discuss whom else you may have. Who potentially are in the hospital, and comes around due to the commotion from this room.

@Windy Breeze @Illiad Easle

"We're inventors, and engineers. We make lots and lots of fun stuff. Here I mostly help repair and optimize stuff though. Dunno what big bro is doing though. Like I said, he's down there, where he thought they needed him more, and he sent me up here to help all the sad beings, that got away."

"To clarify: The Æther attempted to get Molotov Boom from a shelter, to have him assist here. His expertise on machinery were sorely sought after. He sadly declined, on behalf of wanting to help others in the razed world. But he offered to send his little sister with us. She's apparently more wild than he were, but she is genuinely helpful, if we can keep her focused."

"He said it's important that one of us made it, and that he'd always think about me. I miss him, but my big bro's a smart pony. He'll make it, and there's lots to do up here so everything works good. It's nice to help, right? Makes me happy to see so many safe and free of all the bad stuff down there.

Hehe. So what do you do up here?"

"Brittle and I, as well as WIlderbeast, whom just left, work in the agricultural department."

"They have a plant pony picking fruit and stuff? Hehe, that's funny. I went there once when they were harvesting pumpkins. Stumbled when running real fast, and got one stuck on my head. It looked really nice and calm once I got my head out though. Nice place to just breathe easy. Then Grump found me, and chased me around for a bit."

"I can assure you, she will end up being the reason for me going prematurely grey..."

The guard let out a sigh. Wasn't as bad as it once were, but by the gods, Blitz was a hooffull sometimes. Valuable due to her skills, but a powder keg they had to handle with extreme care, and caution.

@Imperium

Hey there mate, ya got the ping for the last post? Been some time, and not seen you respons yet.

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@Loud Opinion

Still having some issue figuring out what to do with Limbo and the shark mare?

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Illiad didn't look too sure, "Twenty Five years is a long time... She may not even know I'm still alive. If she fell in love with another on the Æther... I wouldn't blame her. She deserves someone who can be there for her. And our foal... Plein will be twenty seven when the Æther returns. Older than I was when she was born, lived her whole life without me. She won't have any idea who I am." He sighed, "Perhaps it's better this way. As an alicorn I'll live for millennia, maybe it'll be easier to be separated like this... maybe it won't hurt as much when they die if we're distanced..."

She didn't know how he'd act to it, but Void would walk straight over, and give the consul a comforting hug, lest she were stopped. He really looked like he needed one right now.

"We didn't see our parents for twenty-three years, and it didn't make us less happy when we found them again. Time is time, but they're still your family. Your wife will miss you, and your daughter might have only vague memories of you, but you're her father. She'll want to get to know her real father, and she'll be proud of what a great stallion he's been, for a world that almost got completely ruined.

And who knows? Perhaps with Discord gone, and the gates closed again, they might come back sooner than that. Don't lose hope, Illiad. And don't think it's better you didn't get to connect. You have a long life ahead of you, and generations of generations of foal, grandfoals, and so on, to make happy memories with."

Poor illiad had a lot on his plate, and these sad thoughts wouldn't be helping making them any easier. And with how much he had helped them  the absolute least she could do, were trying to give the stallion some support, and attempt to give him some hope.

She felt sure that she weren't wrong about his daughter either. Her dad was an alicorn, and the savior of the world. What kind of pony wouldn't be proud to have that kind of father? Sure he wouldn't be able to have her with him for long, when you thought of his long life, but then came the genrations after that. He'd still have family that he could cherish and care for. And with his now long life, he'd need the happy memories, in the millennia to come.

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Vale smiled at the praise, "Thank you, I figured teaching them paper airplanes would be a good way to get them interested in things like flight, and how creatures without wings can also fly, and from there it turned into a fun game. Ardee seemed rather interested at least. Maybe we could get a pilot to talk to her? Maybe one of the pegasi who trained your sister? What do you think about that?"

"I think that would be a lovely idea. It's a shame to have wings, and not get to fly. She just shouldn't get pushed to be a speed flyer. I don't want to be like them, and try to change her into someone she's not. It'd just be good if she wants or needs to, she can have a regular, lovely flight."

They'd have to find those who helped Null, but that should be possible. She had spoken about them enough to get a fine idea of them, and they could be helpful. Long as they didn't go too harsh on Ardee. She shouldn't be pushed to be like Rainbow Dash.

As for the little rascals that came over, she'd open one of the saddlebags and let them have a look at things. Though as everything was packed in, all they'd be able to see, were the top of some oddly red, tough looking fruit, some dark roots, and a few sour-smelling reeds of sorts. Desert food were odd, but with the right love, they'd still end up delicious.

Peal would be able to look into the other bag, as she were on Void's back, and find that there were the smell of sugar in there. As well as some cacti, free of needles, and cut packed in small bulbs.

There'd also be the letter that Molotov had sent them. Laying near the top, and ripe for the picking, if it were.

(Null)

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

He nodded, but less pleased, "Unfortunate, but we'll be prepared. If that is all, Branch, Dove, you're dismissed. I'll contact you once it's safe enough to send you back to New Pegasus."

"Before you go-"

Null would have listened, and nodded along as needed when she heard what the Consul had planned for things. Seemed like he had a fair idea of how to deal with things, and seemed to be willing to lend the changelings a hoof. A smart move really, since they might not be the top dogs in that city, but they were present a lot of places. It were always wise to have those who had an eye and an ear almost everywhere, on your side. You never knew the stuff you might learn.

Still, there were one thing she'd like to share her opinion on, before Branch and Dove left.

"- Don't tell them about Cheshire, unless you can give them some sort of proof. I doubt they'd believe it, and there's no point in shaking their hope, without a meaning to it. I don't think it'd go well if the leadership they have, went into despair."

There were proof if one wanted it. A witness, in fact: One of the changelings that had been with her as they were attacked, who'd know the truth of it all. His name were Pirouette, and he had been relocated after narrowly making it out of there alive, and towards one of the few safe camps. He'd either been relocated to Troy, or the Blackwater Ridge, depending on which one had been the closest, and so far assumed his entire hive, and all of Las Pegasus, were nothing but ash and rubble. If they could get him to New Las Pegasus, he'd be able to tell a truth they wouldn't like, but would believe. And help him get back to his family again too. Beyond that though, there were no proof, or witness to speak of.

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The Consul turned to Null and Arcade, a bit more friendly expression on his face, "So, I assume you're Arcade then? Null's sister Void has been taking good care of your family since they arrived here. If I might ask, were you with Null when she went to confront Grey Mane?"

He looked a bit sheepish, "Well, I was physically present, but I was incapacitated, I couldn't tell you much about what happened there."

Illiad nodded, "That's alright, I know you did your best." He turned to Null, "You mentioned that Epsilon is the new Gray Mare, who is Epsilon?"

"Epsilon either works at, or owns, the Top Suits casino. More than that though, she's kin. Seemed like Grey Mane had more than two foals, but I didn't know before he was dead. And after that... Something's taken hold of her. Shadows surged at her, made her grey like he were, after she uttered an agreement to some sorta deal. I dunno what it is, but I got a name: Nibiru. Does that mean anything to you? I think it might be related to whatever the old quack of an oracle made contact with, to get us cursed in the first place. Need to figure out what it is, so I can find out how to yank it out of her, and shove it back into whatever abyss it came from.

...Also, ran into another face I recognized, the day before. Was in an alley, some gangbangers tried luring us into a trap, and he came in. The guy I stole my mace from, down in Tartarus. He's still alive, and made it out of the area before it closed up. No idea what he's planning to do in that town, but I'm guessing it's nothing good. With him being a serial killer and everything."

(Changelings)

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin smirked, "It's been almost a week your highness, but yes. The new Gray Mare seems to have taken to her role rather well. Things have been rather quiet outside for about a day now, I'd say it's safe for us to start venturing out now, and taking possession of the casino seems a good first adventure. The hotel will give us plenty of housing for any changelings who were previously homeless, and will free up space here to properly renovate it into a hive. If we're lucky we could even connect the two buildings with some tunnels once we start excavating."

"A week?! No wonder I feel like Upbeat is always pestering me about getting some sleep. Jeez. Time really flies when you're busy.

If you say it's safer, we can go. But not on our own. I'll have one of our delivery changelings come with us. She's been really helpful getting things around out there unseen. She'll know the safest routes. As for the casino...

I were actually wondering if perhaps we'd be able to have it run as a casino again, and then use the theater, as well as the unused, or unneeded spaces for shelter. Combined with this theater, we'd have more than enough space for not just all the changelings in town, but more and more that might come later. And if the casino remained active, it could help us finance things well. Everyone chips in here and there, and we do our best, but we still have to turn every coin, to make sure it lasts as long as possible.

That why I need Penny Pincher. She's used to work in places like this, before the crisis, and she's a deviously clever one. That's also why she's the last one left of Hive Agnostica. A hive of pride, that fell for their hubris... *sigh* Penny was smart enough to know when to make a tactical retreat, and got here a year after the crisis. We offered her help, but she said that until we had something to offer her that mattered to her, she didn't care. It got a little sour after that sadly. Some words thrown around, and I ended up saying I'd wait for her to come to us, and ask for the help she'd sorely need.

I'm not proud of what I said, and I have tried to apologize to her, but she's always busy, and kept saying we should get back to her, once we had something of value to our name. She's gonna be rightly smug about me being the one coming to ask her of help, but if we're going to have a chance to make this work, we're going to need her. And I know she'll do it. Last few times I heard about her from those few she does hang around with, they keep saying she's annoyed when she looks as the casinos, knowing that she could run them better than most of the current owners. I'll need to have an accountant or two that checks that she's not laundering money away if it is, but we could probably make it work. After getting hold of the town for a gambling permit, and I guess a few hundred other papers. She'd know best what they are."

Hive Agnostica, was a pretty short lived hive. Only lasted through it's first large batch of hatchlings, reaching maturity, so they hadn't made much of a mark in their time. Very prideful hive though. Refused to accept help from others, and as could be expected, pride were their favored emotion to feast upon. And there were no shortage of that here in New Las Pegasus, if you knew where to look.

"I'm not keen on making this place not functional as a theater though. This place is my queens pride and joy. Everything she lived and fought for. I'll have to think about what we do carefully. Maybe we can still keep the stage here at least, so we can use it for showing any potential new hatchlings someday, the joys of performing. She'd like that."

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

He looked over the letter himself, "I do hesitate a bit on the line that anything we find within will be ours, It would be prudent to send an advance team first to see what exactly that entails before we go ourselves. It could be relics, it could be contraband. In either case we'll want to know before it becomes our problem."

He turned back to Bling, "Still, it seems we're already in the Grey's good graces, perhaps they've realized the karmic debt you're owed, and have decided to start repaying it."

"But one thing at a time. We should go there, then have a look at the ground floor, and see what's there. We can send in some groups to check out the spaces beyond that, and hopefully, if there were something bad, The Grey took it with them. We'll have to get rid of it ourselves if not. I don't want to sit on illegal stuff.

I don't really get what karmic debt there might be, but I'll have to thank Epsilon if I see her again someday, as well as give her my condolences. It's gonna be a weird meeting. *sigh* But I suppose, we might as well get ready to go check things out. Or would it be better to wait until later today? You definitely have a better idea of when it's the safest during the day, since I can't even keep track of what day it is."

@Windy Breeze

23 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

“I understand, ma'am. However, you will be taken for the investigation when a new missing report comes up" witnesses are still important despite the flaws of using them, there is always a silver lining that could still help them, like arresting the fake witness, “You must expect to be approached by a guard as you are considered to be a 'point of interest', 'and' a piece of evidence. Any questions?”

"Pop understand, miss guard pony. I heard sound, I am a witness. If you, or other guard ponies come, Pop follows. Will not cause trouble."

This were potentially bad, but then, was it really that? She were known for slinking around town, doing a little of this, a little of that. She had a home with Needle, but most of the time, she were the sort who'd wander around town, and sometimes made others wonder if she were actually homeless. With how much she were around, this wouldn't be the first time a guard pony had asked her questions, on if she heard something perhaps, and most of the time, she helped if she could. Only when it would go against Needle, did she become more hesitant about sharing some things, even if she did know them.

This were just another of those times, yes. And even if the guard pony thought she had done something, what then could she do, without evidence? Hmm... Maybe she'd have some of that. If that was the case... Well, Pop was loyal to Needle, but not the goons. If it were between her and them, and there were ironclad proof she had assisted them, she'd rat them out, and put herself as having been used. She was a helpful diamond dog. Needle could argue that she were just too gullible to have known better before it was too late.

23 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

Tepe did not know much of what happened. Most of it doesn't make sense other than the worry of being hunted down by local gangs which explains why she's very worried for Cimex. He simply approaches her, putting a hoof and ruffling Sorrow's mane “I'm sure everything will be alright”

However, Tepe was unfortunate to be slapped in the face by fate when Razor finally arrives.

"Razor, you're back already? Did you find her? What's the holdup? Is she in trouble?"

A few questions, with a lot of worry behind them. She of course hoped there were nothing bad going on, but sadly, it were possible that something bad were indeed going on, and they had to probably break out of here, and take action in some way.

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@Windy Breeze @Kujamih @Starforce

On 2021-10-01 at 8:32 PM, Windy Breeze said:

“It's a relief you're doing alright"

"Sore to my core, and please no more, heh. Seriously though, in our line of work, getting stuff just randomly falling on ya, or exploding, isn't all that uncommon. Gonna be some injuries every now and again."

Weren't the first time Molotov had been here for stuff falling on him, and wouldn't be the last either. Sure he took precautions, but with how much Blitz and him worked on, there were bound to be something happening sooner or later. Frankly he were just amazed sometimes, that they hadn't caught fire yet.

18 hours ago, Cali said:

"Well I would be happy to listen to whatever you have to say. I don't have much I can really add other than that your family lineage seems to go back a really long time and you and your sister here inherited a lot of their traits to say the least. Exploding candles seems like an interesting story to say he least." she laughed gently at that, eager to hear about it. Cali looked to Luna, curious to see what she has to say about that.

"The Boom family have a long, exploding lineage. But even in the worst of disasters, there's always at least one of us getting through. One of the other research assistants, even went and called us cockroaches. Wasn't very nice, but neither was she. That mare had a temper, I tell ya.

Grandpa did a lot of wonky stuff though, like the time he-"

16 hours ago, Kujamih said:

"... there! is the pain gone?" as light said those phrases a pop came out of Light's forehead, and now blood is coming out of it.

" I really hate seeing other people skwerming in pain... so I took the pain away from you..." light said  while bleeding out.

" oh... please be carefull on your work space... always wear proper protective equipments(PPE). this is the last time I'm gonna clean you off of carcinogens aswell."

Molotov halted his words and just blinked curiously, as he saw, and felt, what were happening here. With the pain just sorta seeping out of him... The hay was this? Some sorta healer thing? Was Light able to use heal magic? That stuff was rare as all hay. He'd be able to get tons of folks lining up, from town to town, just for a chance to- Ah buggering hay! That wasn't healing.

"What the- Dude! Not cool! I ain't gonna let you use forbidden magic, and then go die for a little soreness. Nurse? Nuuuuuurse?! Oh, bloody hay. Sorry about this sis, but I'm gonna need your toy."

He'd use his horn, and levitate a hand grenade out of Blitz massive, bulbous tail. Then he'd pull the pin, and throw it with magic out through the door. He'd open it if it wasn't before that. Along with of course, yelling out *Fire in the hole!*.

It caused a stir out there, though the grenade were completely safe. It'd just shake a bit, and then let out a puff of pink smoke, with a fart noise. He had no idea how Blitz made it do that, and from what he could gather, neither did she. She just found it fun, and were one of several things she had hidden in her tail, in case of emergency. What kind of emergency? Who knew? Could be a fire, could be a boring lecture. IN either case, she had things, and her tail was large and thick enough to hide things in with relative ease. At times, she even got home and when brushing it, found all sorts of things from the street.

Of course, this would only happen - as would the inevitable array of three guards, and a bewildered, yet highly annoyed doctor entering the room - if Molotov wasn't stopped in anything by say, Cali. Might be she'd stop him from calling out, or sort the issue. Or Luna or Blue might go fetch help right away. Something, that wouldn't include Light going and dying for now smart reason here.

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

@Starforce

"Silver Vine is an invasive species of plant, that tends to strangle out trees, so it's mostly kept isolated when it's dormant, and if it tries grow further, the excess area is cut down, and the dirt salted. It's a pretty volatile thing, that can't be just roaming wherever. It's volatile nature goes into the potions too.

As for your idea... That would end up getting us jailed. Stink bombs are a popular prank thing, but if it's this concentrated, the smell could take years to clean out, and get so gut-wrenching, that nothing could live near it, and it would leave a large area entirely inhospitable. We'd pretty much be doing a large scale attack on an Equestrian population. That sort doesn't tend to go over well with the guards.

And don't get discouraged. Potions takes time to get used to making. My first attempt ended up with a white liquid, that suddenly took form, and tried to pull me into the pot. My teacher had a good laugh over it, once she countered the mixture. Least your thing here is still viable for others. It just needs to be made less concentrated."

Behind her, the liquid in the pot where slowly shifting color, but it'd be a few minutes more, before it were at the stage that she had warned about. Though compared to what they could smell from Magnolia's mixture, it wouldn't be so bad.

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

@EQ_Theta

14 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“That’s… twenty bits alright. I… sure hope those are clean.”

“No need to worry. Apart from looking odd, it isn’t any cause for concern.”

"I've handled bits from her before. Omen doesn't salivate for some reason, so much of the bacteria within spit, that we all have, are missing in her. And the coins are... Stored separately. Omen is very special."

"I keep the coins in the third stomach."

"You're not helping right now..."

Omen looked at him confused, not understanding. Had she been trying to help someone before that? She did not think so, but perhaps he meant it helping, as in her helping them get food? But she was helping with that... Maybe it were one of those sayings that she wasn't supposed to take literal, which in turn just confused her further.

15 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

Peaks would take one dough and carrot ball and extended it to Shrimp. She was curious if it would enjoy this admittedly rushed recipe, something that she scrounged up together in the heat of the moment.

Once he saw that one of the treats were headed his way, Shrimp's eyes went wider, and he started to reach out with his small arms, and mouth, wanting to grab hold of the treat that he now considered his. It were being reached towards him at least, so surely it were for him, yes? And it smelled good. He wanted it! He'd even start to let out some excited chirps as it got nearer, though he still wouldn't snap after it with his mouth. For some reason, that wasn't something he did a lot, even though it had a better reach. Unless he wanted to bite a being, that were.

Once he got hold of the ball, he'd let out a triumphant yelp, and rolled it around in his hands, sniffing it to get a better idea of what this might be. And then, he chomped down. Got around a fourth of it in that chomp, and judging from how he seemed to just perk up, and then go ravenous on the thing, he was a big fan. In fact, once he were halfway done, he'd look away from the ball, and up towards Peaks. He'd still clutch it, and have his mouth covered in batter, but at the same time, he'd still let out a little happy song, and give her a quick noodle dance. Must look rather weird for her, to see the little draconic creature rising up from his spot on Omen's face, and wriggle around joyfully, but Rosa thought it was a good sign at least. In fact, he seemed surprised, judging by his risen eyebrow.

"He must really like those. Normally he doesn't do this towards strangers. He tends to hiss more. You should remember this place for when you think he deserves a treat another time, Omen. I'm sure you and Peaks could find a fair price for them if it becomes a regular thing."

"I understand."

Omen would focus directly on Peaks, and sniff the air in her direction. Rosa would neglect to say why she did that, and hope she just thought Omen smelled the baked goods. Knowing she were marked for life likely wouldn't be good for Omen's reputation. Or his, but he were trying to think of her first here, and not himself via association.

17 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Here you go. Cream puffs and carrot balls ready to eat. And about your question, Omen, eating air is an expression. Whipped cream filling is very light on the stomach, and when you take a bite into it, you’ll notice how there’s not really much of anything in it. You can try letting air into your mouth, and you’ll get an idea of what the expression means.

“Now, take a bite into the cream puff. Get in a mouthful of cream. You’ll notice there’s a difference. A lot more substance, and the texture is smooth. Lots of flavor and all without letting your mouth still feel empty. I guarantee it! The same applies to all of you. Try it!”

Omen opened and closed her muzzle a few times, to let air in, but she felt nothing from it. Likely had something to do with that whole *breathing* thing that normal beings had to do. She did try that too, but she were bad at it, as she barely ever did this, and it seemed unnecessary to her.

As that didn't get her anywhere, she'd pick up the creme puffs, and share them around with her friends, whilst Shrimp kept going at his own treat. It were somewhat more heavy than he were used to, so one at a time was best for him. There'd still be one creme puff left too, and Omen were about to store it as she usually did, until Rosa said that perhaps it were best that he carried it for now. She'd comply without causing a fuss.

All as one, they'd have them, and be ready to chomp down. Omen and Rosa at least, would take a bit at the same time. Omen looked as moved and enthralled as always, while Rosa raised and eyebrow, as he slowly chewed through this peculiar thing. Granted, he had tried similar before, but this were different, and he were trying to articulate how he might say so best.

"How can I say this..."

"It has cream."

"...Factually accurate, but not what I meant. I wanted to say, that this is surprisingly understated, in your sales pitch. The flavors are far more notable than I expected, yet in a good way, that doesn't seem to overwhelm too harshly. And the texture... I am not one for - pardon my expression - mushy foods, lest we are speaking fruit, but it is hard to not like this. I'm fairly impressed.

Sen? Lin? What do you think?"

@Starforce

It's because we're waiting for @Windy Breeze to write something, though I'd suggest perhaps moving forward with things regardless, and let Windy catch up later? Can't have us just sitting on our hooves now, can we @Illiad Easle?

Also seems like @Courageous Thunder Dash is behind too.  Might be an issue of not getting a notification? Happened before.

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-09-30 at 5:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Illiad smiled and chuckled when he heard the cackler's call, "A big hello to you as well my small friend." He'd hold out a hoof to rub Lacuna with, or more accurately to allow Lacuna to run hid head against. There was a bit of a wistful look in his eye, "Silver was fascinated with these creatures... no doubt she would have convinced me to get one... had we had more time together..." He sighed, but returned his attention to the matter at hoof.

"There's still time, Illiad. She's not dead, and The Æther will come back some day. Maybe when it does, Lacuna will have matured, and had a clutch of his own you can pick from. If not, I know a good breeder."

Times like this, she felt really bad for the consul. He had a lot to deal with on most days, and then, he also had to think of his loved one, floating who knew where exactly, on The Æther, as the evacuation ship in a sense, floated between planes. He couldn't tell how she were, what she were doing, and had no idea when he'd see her again... It had to be tough for the poor alicorn. Hopefully with the gates closed, and Discord gone, they'd be able to get back home soon.

On 2021-09-30 at 5:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

When she arrived back at the house she would find that the young ponies and Vale had turned the beds into a pair of small forts and were busy tossing somewhat crudely made paper airplanes between them, while the foals frolicked in the middle trying to intercept them, Peal using her small wings to boost her jumps while Piecey tried to grab them with her magic, occasionally mustering enough focus to change their trajectory somewhat.

Vale took advantage of Void's return to duck out of the battle and come over to her, "There you are, what kept you?"

"Sorry about that. The meeting with the Consul didn't take long, but I had another errand to run after that, and then I figured that since a lot of good have happened today, I'd get us something to celebrate it. So, I've picked up all the ingredients I'd need, for a Sand Platter.

Don't worry, it's not made with actual sand. It's a selection of local food, served up in small portions for tasting purposes. And after that, I'm improvising a cake. Sadly not easy to get hold of milk, but I know a few tricks on how to mix things right."

For the cake itself, she'd honestly just use butter, and then add in a little sweet to cover up the extra salt from that. It wasn't perfect, but diluted, a little sweetened - You'd barely be able to tell the difference. The frosting though, she'd make use of a few things, including the insides of a cactus. The water stored, mushed up with the flesh of the plant, and something she'd barely gotten lucky enough to spot at the market as she rushed along, and it should do the trick. It's be a little more lemony sweet, than simply sweet, but alas, such were the case with improvising.

"Looks like I'm not the only one that's been busy. It looks like you've been hard at work, finding a fun way to help the little ones gro into their wings and horn. It's very creative. I like it."

It was really looking like a fun way to do this, and it were working some. She could see them somewhat fly, and use a trickle of magic, to get to them. Or at least try to. Small steps here, and this were a small, yet entertaining way to begin that. Also utterly adorable.

(Null)

"It seems like there's a fair bit, and at the center, is three. Never met the third, but the two who met us there were called Bling and Upbeat. They seemed like nice enough changelings. From what we've seen and heard, the three of them is from a former local hive, and they're running a kind of community for them there. Gathering up food, sharing it around to others of their sorts, keeping them fed, giving them a roof over the head, help for work, that sort of thing.

They're present everywhere, but they don't seem to be in power anywhere. Looks like they're taking care of their own, and keeping up morale 'round town. Utterly harmless, but since they know some here, some there, they're probably the best to ask about what happens in town. You're also gonna need 'em when talking with a pair of the casino owners. Dragons. Got some sorta curse on 'em that makes others treat them like gods, by their own words. For some reason, the changelings ain't as affected.

...They also asked when we got into town, to spread the word that they're looking for their queen. Cheshire, I think they said the name was. They seem to think she's still alive out there somewhere. Dunno if I believe it, but they seemed nice. Might as well pass it along."

(Changelings)

On 2021-09-30 at 5:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He let out a rueful chuckle as he shook his head, "And I've slain hundreds more with my own hooves, a thousand more by those I commanded. I served Discord for a time, helped him seize Canterlot. I only stopped when he allowed one of his other Generals to threaten my granddaughter, Queen Delphi, The little good I've done here, as significant as it may be for you and the others here, is but a drop in the bucket compared to the atrocities I've committed."

"And you got sent to Tartarus, where you've suffered for your actions too. You've seen the error  of your old ways, and are trying to be better. That's what matters in my eyes, and it's a good first step towards making up for all the rest. Don't just focus on the end goal, or you'll end up feeling like you're not accomplishing anything."

Bling would send an encouraging smile to Rasputin, before they parted ways for now. He had done a fair few more nasty things than expected, but she stood by her assessment that he were showing remorse, and as such, should be given the chance to make up for the past. And so far, he were doing well there, and she thought he deserved to hear that. He might not think it was enough to merit praise, but then she'd just have to be more insistent with showing him some positivity, until he'd get it now, wouldn't she?

On 2021-09-30 at 5:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

(I think a time skip would be prudent here)

Over the next few days things quieted down in the streets, the Trojan guards starting to patrol the streets in a limited capacity. Rasputin spread his teachings among those selected to teach the others on how best to improve their harvests moving forward. His process boiled down to the following steps:

1. What emotion do we want to gather?
2. Where/When do creatures typically experience this emotion the strongest?
3. Is there something a changeling can do to encourage this event / bring creatures to this location?
4. Can a changeling be present to discretely collect this emotion while it is still fresh?
5. Repeat for each desired emotion

Bling barely felt that a few days had gone by. She didn't go outside, so she couldn't judge by the sun, and she were far too busy counting minutes and hours. She tried counting meals at the start as an indicator, but then she skipped a few because she were needed for this or that, so that went out of the window. It were mostly going quietly, but there were a lot of various changelings now suddenly stuck under the same roof, and tensions were already high, with what were going on outside. The teachings by Rasputin, and the assigned heads of the various tasks, would thankfully keep them occupied enough for this to not escalate too much, but there were a few times when things got near spicy, and she had to do something. Plus, she had to make sure that various other things were handled in the background, with communication and updates going on around the other shelters of changelings, and making sure that there were supplies for all of them. They had more than enough here, but not all the shelters did, so they had to keep something going, or prepare it, in case it went on for much longer. If it wasn't for the reports, she frankly wouldn't have any semblance of what day they had right now.

As for the changelings, they were mostly taking to the teachings well. A few stragglers here and there, but peer pressure made practically all of them at least try to join in on getting educated on various tasks. So things seemed to go well. Beyond the times when Upbeat had to be after his sister, to make her get at least some rest.

And then, The Grey made contact.

On 2021-09-30 at 5:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The morning after the second full day that they had been inside the theater, they would find a letter stuck in their door with a knife, Rasputin would identify this as a 'friendly' message from the Grey. The letter was addressed to Bling, and read:

Leader Bling of the Changelings,

With the death of R. House the Top Suits stands in need of new management. Given your group's history with the establishment it seems fitting that you and those who follow you take up said role. We have no doubt you'll find the accommodations to your liking. Anything you find within the casino and hotel when you take possession of it is yours to do with as you like, should you accept.

Gray Mare

Included with the letter was the original deed to the Top Suits, already signed over to Bling.

Bling had been trying too take a short nap whilst waiting for news, so when Rasputin came in and told her she had a letter, she thought it was a note of sorts from their fellow changelings. Up until he told her whom it were from, and that it were addressed to her. Which certainly woke her up. And got her a little scared too, honestly. Why would they make contact to her specifically? She had done her best not to get on their bad side.

She honestly had to read it through two times, and then look over the deed to the casino four times, before it sank in what had just happened her, and her jaw figuratively hit the floor.

"They're... G-Giving us the Top Suits? That's...  Wauh."

She had to take a step back, and think about this for a moment.

"That's a pretty high end casino. And suddenly, it's... I don't even know what to do with it. I mean, the theater in there are amazing. The stage is wonderful, and horribly, horrendously underused. But the rest, is... And there's this place. It's my queens legacy. I can't just abandon it.

...Okay, okay, think... Maybe we can make both work. Retain this as a shelter for now, then try to get the Top Suits running. Get some acts in, have the theater open again. Maybe use the proceeds to fix this place up, and make it into a proper, olden theater, like she always hoped?

...I'll have to get hold of Penny Pincher then. Ancestors have mercy, she's gonna be smug about this, but she's the only one of us with any sort of business sense, and it wouldn't be good for us to squander this chance. We'd probably never have one like it again.

This came outta nowhere. I thought you said it'd take a few days for them to even gather themselves, but it's only been one, right? That's pretty quick. The new one must be efficient. Whom I guess must be Epsilon then. She were House's foal, she'd have the rights to the hotel. I guess she's taken up the cursed mantle then. Poor mare. I hope she'll be able to find some semblance of joy in the shadows."

@Kujamih

No more sad. I fixed the post now.

@Starforce

Zeehva hadn't really set up any sort of task. She had explained what she were doing, as she had already done a mix before Magnolia showed up, so she figured the next one she could have Magnolia follow along with things.

Still, she didn't stop the mare from trying to make a mixture, and at the end, she'd have a paste alright. It were orange, and on occasion, there would bubble up a spot of green, that'd burst, and give off a foul odor. Like really, truly foul.

"Well... The bad news is that you've used the wrong ingredients, so even though you did do something, it's not what I've been working with. Honestly didn't think you'd try and make something already, so uhm... Guess I should have explained things a little better.

The good news is that we can still use that. Stink bombs are pretty popular, and you made a pretty potent blend. We'll need to dilute it though, or this stuff would cause a stench that'd last for years. A shame we didn't get any balloons, but maybe I can improvise something... Anyway, current drought first.

Heh. You know, it's good you didn't add any Silver Vine to this. Then it would've exploded, and we'd been covered in a massively smelling foam."

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2021-09-29 at 5:26 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Thanks. I only accommodate Munchkin’s activities because I was concerned for her. She comes and goes as she pleases, but whenever it rains, she stays here and lounges around like it’s her home. Well… I guess you can say she kind of lives here, until closing time anyway. After a while, it became like clockwork. She knows when the bakery opens and closes, and she’s no longer taking food from the shelves.”

In that moment, Munchkin roused from her rest and looked to the group for a moment before walking out of the bakery without a fuss. Seemed like she proved the owner’s point about coming and going as she pleased. Whether or not it took umbrage to the noise, none could say, but it says something when the cat had free rein to do what it wanted.  It didn’t seem too disturbed at Omen and Shrimp despite the odd looks it got from them. And speaking of oddities, Stiff Peaks would get her own introduction to them.

"Cats are very... Independent creatures. In the end, they will do as they please, and generally speaking, simply stick around us for easy food, and comfortable places to relax. At least I assume so. I will admit to not being a cat owner. I just observe things at times."

Quite honestly, he were a bit torn on cats. On one hoof, he could admire their independence, and self reliance, which tended to be very well. They did not need as much maintenance to do well, as for example dogs, or birds. Though on the other hoof, he were also aware that the cat were likely to just be around their owners, because it were convenient sometimes, and they were odd creatures to understand at times. Sometimes, cats would just be cats, and it were best to simply go along with it. Kind of like with Omen, though if cats could open portals around places, he'd fear what sort of things they'd get up to.

On 2021-09-29 at 5:26 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Whoa-ho there! Your voice is inside my head, but you look like you’re just staring at me. How… how are you doing that?”

“It’s… uh, telepathy. That’s how Omen regularly speaks. A little strange a first, but you’ll get used to it after a while.”

“If you say so. Um… cream puffs it is, and I think the expression you’re going for is ‘like eating air.’ To tell you the truth, these cream puffs are made with the opposite in mind. You’re not getting a light snack that’s not filling. Take one bite, and you’re getting a taste of sweet, creamy filling, none of that whipped cream nonsense. I saw you’re little companion on your head, but I don’t think it’s safe for it to eat this. How about I give you an alternative? Wait here.”

Once the cat were gone, Shrimp would poke worth, and look around, just to see if it were somewhere. Especially upwards, since the ceiling cat, were his first experience. It didn't seem like there were anyone, so whilst the mare were talking, he'd start to sniff the air, and slither further out on Omen's head, to get closer to the creme puffs, and other baked goods. At the point where Peaks would go out to the back room, he'd be sitting on her nose, wrapping his tal around that, whilst he were leaning forward to get a better smell of the stuff in front of him. Many things there that smelled tasty to him. And all the while he did that, Omen would stand motionless, even though she'd still respond to Peaks.

"How can you eat air?"

She didn't get that. Clouds she understood, as they were far away, and she'd seen ponies sit on them sometimes. So they had to have some mass, right? Even though she kept falling through them when she used gates to get up there. But air were everywhere, and normal ponies breathed that. How could they eat it, when they breathed it, and it had no mass to chew on? Couldn't even drink it then, no?

She'd ponder this until Peaks came back, and upon seeing what she were carrying, Shrimp would start to sniff the air even more. Whatever they were made from, seemed to be in his taste, though he wasn't begging for them currently. So he seemed to at least understand that strangers stuff, wasn't something he should beg for.

On 2021-09-29 at 5:26 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Here you go. Bite-sized pieces made from the same ingredients as donuts but little to no oil. I’ve added some bits of carrots in there as well. I don’t know what it is you’ve got there, but after hearing about how reptiles can’t eat certain things, I think you’d be better off being safe. That’ll be five cream puffs instead for twenty bits. I’ll throw in the the dough and carrot balls for free.”

"Twenty bits. Okay."

Omen stood still for a moment longer, then slowly - to avoid Shrimp falling off - her mouth would open, and her tongue would begin to extend. Bit by bit were laying on it, nicely in a row, and as her long tongue would get to the desk, she'd deposit the dry coins down there. Peaks would likely think this strange, on account of them not being wet, smell, Omen apparently having them in her system, and the long tongue. Or she may just brush it off, like most others had recently. It appeared a fair deal worked under a kind of *I don't want to know* sort of attitude.

"They are there, yes?"

"That seems accurate from this distance. And what she have is called a refraction. A kind of elongated dragon, with different magic to what we usually see in Dragon Isles dragons. He's a newly hatched, and utterly harmless. Plus as you surmised, vegetarian. Just like ponies."

Rosa did not currently know if he would be welcomed all that much in the neighborhood, but he were feeling increasingly certain that with his group of friends, he'd certainly be remembered. Omen especially tended to have that kind of impression on others, as she looked like a pony, but her... Everything, worked against that.

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

@Widdershins

On 2021-09-30 at 2:54 AM, Widdershins said:

Whett reached down with a hoof to concernly boop the cowering stallion gently on the head. Mulling the predicement aloud and over him, the kirin kept speaking in that practiced way of one who has spent way too long talking to themselves out on their own.

This was it. This was when he were going to be set on fire, and he's get burned up. He'd end up with massive burn scars everywhere, and this he couldn't cover up, so everyone would be able to look and stare at him.

And the pain. Of course the horrible, horrible pain that'd come too. Now that the kirin had touched him, he would no doubt feel the flames licking around his body soon.

...Why wasn't he smelling burnt hair, and bubbling flesh? Surely he should feel something after being touched like this, by a burning creature like Whett.

He'd poke an eye open, and see up,., to notice the kirin was no longer flaming, nor scorching areas around him. Had it been a... No, it was real. He could see it on the grass on the ground. There had been a flash of fire. What in the name of Suusha were going on here?

On 2021-09-30 at 2:54 AM, Widdershins said:

"But that's a depressing thought!" He pouted in a soft, if goofy musing tone. "My home, my family and all others I had known through my entire life, guess they kind of just seemingly wandered off to explore Equestria too... What do I have anymore? A weak guess that they're out there and alive, constant thoughts that if they were, we had all left each other behind without caring and I have to try and fit into the odd culture of Equestria? As well as find myself somewhere that were my own, eventually, and settle down! Somewhere with other ponies! I mean, like, you don't want to be a loner living in the forest! In some cultures, those're like that tend to go mad! Who wants to end up like that?!"

"You... Lost your family too?"

Cover Up would take his hooves more from his eyes, and look up at the kirin. Still scared obviously, but also a little sympathy had sneaked into his tone, and eyes.

"I... M-My home fell down on top of me. When I woke up, they said they couldn't find anyone, but then others said they'd seen them out there. Just... W-Walking along, without me. I've tried finding them, but everything's just weird. I'm not Equestrian. Their c-culture is strange to fit into."

It seemed the kirin were musing along, and so far, had not sen him on fire. Maybe... Maybe he didn't want to? But then with what he had said... No, no that was impossible. Surely you couldn't just flare up like that, and not know about it, right? That would be crazy.

He'd slowly get on his hooves, cautious, as to not cause something burning to happen. primarily to himself.

"I'm... Cover Up. My village were settlers from Harrowmark. It's uhm... W-Well, loners there certainly goes crazy. I don't think its the same here. There's not enough dark magic here. It's very clean here, I guess?

Ad I... D-Do you really not know what you just did? You went all b-blazing. Like this."

Cover Up would use his horn to pop off the cork in the large ink quill, and then dip the large paint brush in it. With speed and precision, he'd then draw a picture on the ground. A perfect, ink painting of how Whett looked like before. Though with perhaps a bit too much in the eyes, looking all hateful. It were how it looked to him in the moment, so that just... W-Well, he'd get the point, surely. The picture were spot on, as Cover Up were a talented artist. It were all he had, so he honed his skills well, and had done so all his life. His parents had been very supportive. Long as he also did his chores.

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

@Widdershins @Sekel

On 2021-09-30 at 2:54 AM, Widdershins said:

"...You went to a pony for healing? Well that's quite neat for you. Wasn't aware how much ponies knew so much about dragons and their health and such. Our species have just so much to do with each other. Not like they keep us in entirely seperate parts and actively keep us out of world government matters and stuff.

 Glad you decided to injure yourself while flying, then claw at yourself more until you hurtled at us like a mountain dropping. Just what we needed on a walk, being Hurtled at. Do hope your day has been okay, ours sure has been eventful. 

Also yes, I very much appreciate you backlogging literally every minute description about everything you've been doing all day to us random strangers you've met for all of five minutes. Sure does seem like typical PonyTown behavior."

"Heh, you sound just like my oldest brother. He's very snarky too."

Benny gave a big grin towards his fellow dragonkin. Benny was about the height of a pony, and twice as long, so it wasn't because he was a massive specimen, but as a fire-aligned dragon, he had strong fire breath, and as part of the army technically, he had to go through their combat training. So he had some things going for him, that wasn't just *feral dragon fighting*. As the youngest of twelve, he also had a long history of being the butt of his older siblings jokes, so he had taken the brunt of a lot of hits. Helped him take a few hits more than the regular to go down.

That being said, he didn't want to fight, so if it could, he would avoid that altogether.

"You're wrong on the point on us dragons not getting a vote though. The old dragon lord didn't want to deal with ponies and the like, so he kept the Dragon Isles to themselves. Dragon Lord Ember sounds more reasonable, so I'm sure her voice is gonna end up carrying some weight going forward. We gotta trust our sprawling young leader, right?

And you know, they do know a fair bit about dragons. Well, outside damage, anyway. But thankfully I didn't need a lung transplant. I just had my hands cut, and disinfectant works the same for us both. Us dragons just heal faster. It's pretty fun though, when they come in and ask questions about how dragons are in general though, to learn more. Like you said, we don't always had a lot to do with one another in the past, but it's a brave new world now, right? Our dragon lord is on friendly terms with the local princess, and that means there's more of us coming around to mingle now. You should just see how Fillydelphia are looking. My parents live there these days. I think it'd be a good place for you to have a look around. Really opens up your perspective to things, and you sound like you could use that. This here's an Equine world mostly. Best we can do, is to not try and hide in your small area, and get grumpy over how things are, but rather go and explore what they have to offer. Maybe, you'll even find that some of them will matter to you. Like this nice mare.

Heh, probably not as much as my marefriend, but then, dragon and pony couples aren't really that common. I'm guessing you'd be against that too? Just lay it out if it is, friend. Best to just get it out of your system, and we can deal with it. I bet you can't tell me something on this matter I haven't heard before."

Kaltrop was a grumpy sort, but a lot of dragons tended to be around ponies, if they had their antiquated views to deal with at the same time. He understood. He had been around a lot of them, and got their point of view. He just didn't agree with it. Not that a lot cared. To a fair few, Benny wasn't acting like a proper dragon. He didn't like fighting, he dated a pony, had cast aside his real name, to use this more friendly one, and overall, were a smiling, happily acclimated dragon, living well in the equine world. A lot who had certain views on how dragons acted, tended to get confused when meeting him in fact, as he were being more friendly than they though his kind would be.

And he were likely about to get another earful for that. But hey, wasn't the first, and certainly wouldn't be the last.

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

@Starforce @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

"Crushed by falling debris, huh? Heh, it'd been Great-Uncle Kindle Boom all over again. Thanks for the helping, Cali. Can't go get myself killed already now, can I? Too many things to do, and not a foal to my name. Though this is gonna really hurt tomorrow, I'm guessing. But hey, better than being dead, am I right?"

"Gimme gimme gimme!"

Blitz would do her best to get to her brother, wriggling and trying to lounge forward, even using her horn to try and counter whatever kept her in place, be it physical, or magical force. But she were unfocused right now, so her magic didn't hold that much sway. And they better keep hold of her, or she'd pounce on him, like an excited dog, without thinking too much about how he were pretty much soar all over.

Not everywhere though. There were a nice little spot near his left, front leg's ankle that were pretty alright currently.

"Excited to see you too sis, but your big bro's in a mighty hurt right now. So a rain check on the hugs 'til it's better, aight?

Don't worry that she ain't answering. It takes a bit to get through when she's in this mode sometimes. She takes that after grandpa. He'd have been so proud, if he'd been alive to see her grow up. Mom were still mighty proud in association though. She loved grandpa, and seeing how Blitz took after him, really made her a happy camper. Worried as all hay too though, since she's as wild and energetic as he was. Reckless too, but we'll get it through to her sooner or later, how to stay proper safe.

And before you asked: I weren't jealous. Even though I could see that glimmer telling that lil sis was her favorite, she still showed me plenty of affection and encouragement. And grandpa was awesome, so can't fault anypony for liking one that's so much like him.

Wanna hear some stories? Like for his birthday cakes, he used to make his own candles? Usually he got excited, and added dynamite to them. Even on his last birthday that I got to join in on. I dunno what was the best. The glaze, or the look on Aunt Fuse's face when it hit her."

He'd let out a weak laugh, that were rather short-lived, as he winced in pain. Buggery mess this was, and it was probably gonna hurt for a while. Weren't that just a load of annoyance?

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Illiad snorted, "That it is, the magic that governs marks is one of the most natural magics known in all of Equis, and as such it is the hardest to understand. Nonetheless, I'm sure whatever the outcome, it will suit you perfectly. Though if I had to hazard a guess, I'd say it would more likely reflect your compassion, your empathy, and your nurturing nature, if Vale's reports on how well you are caring for the ponies are accurate."

"It's not hard. They're very good ponies, who just needs an environment of love, and understanding, so they can grow into healthy adults. Though some do have some issues. And I need to get hold of Molotov, to try and help with one of them."

If he had seen the reports, he'd know about the foal missing her wings. A horrible, disgusting thing done to her, which would normally not have any kind of solution. Yet as he had seen on Molotov, he were a unicorn, that had made functional wings for himself. Hence, he should be able to make functional replacement ones for wing amputees too. In fact, the design for them, were in the data cube the Consul had gotten already, so he could likely have it sorted via some other tech savvy beings too. Wouldn't even need the invasive surgery, since she already had the nerve endings and neural connections for it. Just had to make wings in the right size and weight, then have them attached accordingly. A simple spell could likely do that.

"But we'll see what happens, right?"

At this point, Lacuni stopped looking around the room from Void's shoulder, and looked straight towards the odd pony, that he had never seen before in the market. But Void were friendly with him, so that meant he was a friend, right? A friend who needed a happy greeting sound.

The cackler would let out a sound towards the consul, which were reminiscent of a ships fog horn. Impressively deep and reverberating too, and you could really see the little one putting some effort into doing it, and puffing his chest a little after that, mighty proud of himself. Earned him a bit of a scratching on the side of his face from Void, so that were good times for him. If the consul tried, he'd find the lizard would rub his head on his hoof, and radiate nothing but joy, and a little caution. Though the caution were normal, from any of his kind. It were an instinct thing, when one were this low on the food chain.

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He raised an eyebrow, "If you're asking whether the account is factual, I don't doubt it. If you're asking whether he bears responsibility, then I can confidently tell you that he does not. As of now he does not have any outstanding debt on the part of Vengeance, meaning that he stand blameless for the actions of his former companions. Vale may not accept that right away, but it should help her on the path of forgiving him for his tangential part."

He looked over at the clock, "I have another appointment, a meeting with some elected officials. Don't hesitate to come back if you need anything."

"I meant more about him being responsible for making some of the things, that got used. But I guess you answered that too, at the same time. It's a relief to hear that he isn't responsible for the bad things, and I'll make sure to let Vale know that. Though I still think she's going to try and at least beat him up when she sees him. It's not easy letting go of your anger, and I think she needs someone to blame. I've seen it from my sister, many times. It's easier to blame another, than to accept what happened, and move on.

But I'll leave you alone. Good luck with your meeting, and thank you."

If there were nothing more, she'd leave, and move towards the outskirts of town. She needed to speak with Molotov, and it would be rather important to get done. She'd be back at the foals an hour after that, with a bit of a hopeful smile on her face, and a bag of something special she had picked up, after she were done. She wondered what they might be doing right now, but she were sure Vale kept them entertained.

(Null)

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade had an odd look on his face when he saw Illiad, he whispered to Null, "Is that what an alicorn looks like? Given how the scholars talked about Celestia I imagined something more... god-like?"

"I've seen real gods. This ain't nothing. Still, he's playing it common right now. Ain't the same if he gets flared up."

She'd whisper back to him, and she sadly wasn't joking. Demi gods and gods, she had seen them both. And from that, is how she learned that her curse did not affect primordial magic. Too raw and powerful she imagined. Tough regardless of that, the visual tended to be mighty weird on some of them. Especially the gods. She'd seen some with physical avatars, and some as pictures. Those in pictures were odd, like the ones from Harrowmark, though she were sure they'd be a great deal more impressive in real life. With Viz'nay, being a giant, silvery moth, with countless souls nestled under her wings, and Suusha looking like one of the old depiction of humans, but humongous, and with sharp claws, dark eyes, and six tentacles writhing on his back, in sickly green. Risen corpses bowing before him, as he towered above the swamps.

The ones she'd seen herself... She'd need some time to try and explain them. And don't even get her started on draconequui. By the gods, Discord were by far not the weirdest looking one of those, and he were already a weird mix of things.

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

If Illiad heard the comment he didn't show it, nodding to each of them to take their seats as he did, "It is good to see that all of you were able to return... mostly unscathed... from your mission. I've already read the reports so we can skip over the minutia. Tell me, what do you think would be a good course of action in regards to New Pegasus? Null, I understand you have some pertinent knowledge of the current situation, care to weigh in?"

"The town's gonna tear itself apart. Apparently, Grey Mane's lackeys kept the gangs from ravaging freely, and now that he's dead, they're going on the assault. I'd say to go in, and beat the tar out of their bosses. Show them that there's still law around, before they end up racking up a kill count on the civilians.

Dunno how it's gonna be when the new Grey leadership steps up, but even if they did go back to their thing, it might take some time.

...Her name's Epsilon. Their new leader. One of the casino owners. She seems... Fair."

She had more things to say on Epsilon, but that were for a time of privacy. The rest wasn't supposed to know about certain things yet, like her being taken over, or the family relation with Void and herself.

(Changelings)

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Save you words for one who deserves it, my debt is yet far from repaid. It will take several years, if not decades, serving you and other changelings to atone for all I've done. But I'm glad you are willing to allow me to do so here."

"Nono, I'm not hearing that. You saved lives at the gates, Rasputin. There's dozens out there, who have their friends and hive brethren, only because you stepped in. It might not seem like enough for you, but it matters to them, and you're allowed to feel good about that."

Bling looked concerned again, yet not about what were going on outside. Well, not primarily, though some would always be in her mind, as there were a lot to deal with, and some hunkering down and hoping for the best to get through.

The point being, that she were concerned about Rasputin now. Not so much because of his physical injuries, as they seemed mostly superficial, but more due to his emotional damage. It were good to be remorseful of wrongs you'd done, but he had to remember that he was allowed to be praised, and feel good about himself at times. It couldn't first be when he felt like everything were paid off, or he'd end up miserable. No matter his previous crimes, he didn't deserve to feel that way. He had been in Tartarus. He had suffered already. Now were the time for him to rebuild his life, and his reputation, and she wouldn't hear him being like this towards himself.

On 2021-09-28 at 7:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He took a seat nearby, "If all goes well, it should take two or three days for Grey Mare to acclimate to her position, and for the corruption to be cleansed from the ranks of the Grey. They Grey will go back into the shadows, where they belong, cleaning up the scum that the law can't. Once we start hearing about gang bosses disappearing, then we'll know it's safe to go back to our lives. In the meantime, now is the perfect time to train everyone to be more productive, more effective as cultivators, harvesters, and gatherers. But that can wait until tomorrow. Everyone deserves a good rest after the day we've had."

"We can manage easily throughout a few days like that, but today's not done. Still have to arrange for food, and getting everyone situated well. There's gonna be a lot of questions to answer too, and some of the most injured to see to. Make sure they're being taken well care of.

But that's my headache. You go and get some well deserved sleep. I'll get to it once I've managed to calm everyone enough. It won't do us much good in trying to train anyone, if they're worried that someone might break through at any second, or fear we're stuck in here for months. If your wounds are worse than they look, get to the medical station right away. If I get around tomorrow, and find you bleeding in bed, you're gonna be in a world of trouble."

Bling would pull her tongue at him playfully, then take a few deep breaths, before moving towards the exit again. She had gotten a little bit of time to collect herself, but now, it were time to get to work again.

@Rising Dusk

Think I missed a few, so here's multiple boops.