open Casual stroll

[Widdershins 9,959]

@@Blitz Boom,

 

    Nah. Just toss it down any alleyway you come across. To be honest with you, I'm not much more aware where that sword came from than you are. Though, maybe I ought to try closing the wound-hole before something gets infected.  ...Eh.

 

   Well, magic is as magic does. That's what mah Momma always told me! Leylines, mana, magic, menna, bloodlines, multiverses its all the same really. More or less everything ties together one way or another & I think that's something most shorter-lived beings seem to forget when they can't see it so readily. A world without light is hardly fatal or as rare as you'd think.

    Say the absolute worst thing ever happens and... the world blows up or something. Give it a couple billion years, gravity pulls the planet chunks back together & life settles back down again. Everything stays the same as it constantly changes.

   Widdershins pouts a mumbles under his breath for a moment.

         Kind of makes it hard to care about the consequences...

 

 

@@Twilight-Shimmer,

 

    Oh hey there, you little Goosewort!

 

     Widdershins's tail coils from  around the back of  Stardust Nicole Silvermane, plops unceremoniously on his head and his fins bend around the back of his head to playfully slap both his cheeks at the same time from behind.

 

    We were just about to find you a place to settle down for the night!

Mind you, I don't really have any plans, but it very likely involves annoying ponies. It usually tends to.

 

   Oh, and watch what you drink, young one. Energy drinks are filled with just the worst of preservative herbs! And trust me, I know a think or two about unnatural additives!

 

 

/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\/#\/*\

 

@@~Phoenix~,

 

     Getting once more entangled in the thick, ropy, magical strands and both  weakened & afflicted with a burn, the claw struggles for a bit. It falls to the side of its ovoid shape & slowly rocks back and forth while an oddly electronic wobbling noise plays from a direction no one could clearly discern.

   After a tense moment it finally lays still with a satisfying, musical *Chtunk* sound. As  it lies there wrapped up in its net, it appears as if it is now ready to be safely carried around by anypony willing. Like some sort of easily pocketed monster.

 

     Man. We're so clever!

You know you kill the humor if you draw attention to it...     

   Oh, as if you weren't begging for attention with that reference!

[Twilight-Shimmer 151]

@@Widdershins,

@@Blitz Boom,

 

Stardust blinked a few times at Widder's actions then smiled a bit "Well, they are better then they used to be, they being Energy Drinks, and they about oh i think two hundred tears and some change ago were mostly sugar, and a few other things" he replied looking up at Widders with blue/green eyes. He then glanced to Amazon Lily and asked "So where we heading to?" as he slipped the now empty energy drink bottle back into his  bags

[Midnight_Aurora 571]

@@Blitz Boom,

 

*Cacora chuckles.* "She only looks that way. One shouldn't be afraid of something odd. Now, I am here. So there is nothing to be afraid of." *Her normal nature is active in a passive sense. Emotions being the one thing she could always sense. Many claim she is an empathic being and some have once asked to to join the changeling detection squad. This squad was designed to find changelings that weren't allies to Equestria. She respectfully declined the suggestion, because she didn't feel it would suit her life as she had come to learn it could be and it felt off to her.*

 

"Anomaly, you will behave yourself to the best of your ability and show the magic of friendship to those I care for?" *She asks Anomaly, not out of fear but out of concern and in an attempt to calm the foals and help her friends, the caretakers.*

Edited March 24, 2017 by Midnight_Aurora

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@@EQ_Theta

 

A few things would come into view as the edge of town were reached.

 

The first were that Omen were not with Sen and Lin, but instead had backed away unseen as they had started to move out of town and away from the angry mob, and the second major thing were that said mob seemed to be smaller. As in, severely cut short, and down to only a few ones, which the mob leader apparently didn't notice.

 

"I said something simple when I came here."

 

The words would echo in the minds of those nearby, and barely reach Sen and Lin as Omen wandered behind the small mob where a few more members suddenly fell down into holes that hadn't been there before, and that closed right after them. To most likely hard to tell what was going on, but to Sen and Lin, it should be simple to recognize Omen's gates.

 

"Every time somepony hurt Sen and Lin, I would send somepony away."

 

Another longma vanished with a surprised yelp, whilst Omen neared the mob leader.

 

"You hurt them, so I took them away. Sent them randomly nearby."

 

A sizeable gate opened in front of the mob leader, then around her, leaving only the direction where Omen stood as one she could face, though she didn't particularly care about whatever or not she would turn around. Wouldn't change anything.

 

"It's your turn to go now, and if you are mean to them again, I will send you to dragon land."

 

With that, the mob leader fell down a gate which closed behind her, though Omen didn't intend to send her anywhere else. like the others that had plunged around the village, near the walls, or in a nearby lake/river. The mob leader had been the worst, and gotten many to hurt Sen, so she deserved to be sent somewhere that would scare her.

 

So she had sent her to her home realm, and closed the door behind her. She'd let her out later, but this should work in making her too scared to go after them again. And if not, perhaps just go after Omen instead, since she had done this, not them. Rocks wouldn't hurt her like they had Sen, where she hadn't been able to effectively stop too many of the objects thrown at first because they kept moving quickly towards the edge of town, and it made setting a right gate to absorb things a bit more difficult. She had been able to do well in that regard the last bit of way fortunately, but not fast enough to keep Sen safe.

 

Perhaps she would have been able to if she hadn't stopped a little before the mob showed up and looked at something that caught her eye, or fallen behind to handle a problem where most had gone past her before she had the chance to tell them to stop, though she had still tried. Her promise had been said there too, but there wasn't taken much stock in that, and especially not for those who stopped up to teach her a lesson, or whatever they intended. She didn't know really, but just sent them away before it became too much of an issue.

 

Wandering over to Sen and Lin, who didn't look too good right now (especially Sen) she tilted her head and looked at their wounds somewhat curiously.

 

"Should we go back to Ponyville and get you two mended? I don't want you to be looked at by the mean ones here, and you look hurt. Sorry for that."

 

Omen were directing the last three words to how she saw it at somewhat her fault that they got hurt, when she were supposed to keep them protected. Something she'd do better from now on, and the next time anypony tried to toss something at them, she'd have a gate up to eat it, and send it raining down on them instead. If they could throw it away, she could return it without a problem, right?

 

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

 

 

@@genessee

 

Void listened on to what were another story that just cemented more and more that Lance might have not made the healthiest decisions in his life that one could hope for, to put it mildly. Though she wouldn't fault him for getting hurt too much, since he had prepared safety precautions after all. Couldn't be put on him that some meanies had moved that away and gotten him an unfortunate nickname.

 

"I-I guess that explains why you're here now then. To get away f-from the ponies that knew about that.

 

Why did you t-think about jumping off there in the first place though? Doesn't seem like s-something that would have any good results, even if it had gone f-flawless."

 

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

 

 

@@Foxy Socks

 

Both Briar and Brittle looked on as Foxy explained her backstory, intrigued and captivated until the end of it.

 

"That's quite the adventure you had there Foxy, with a rather unconventional outcome no less, as I haven't met many ponies that could speak with animals.

 

The concept of cutie marks is still somewhat strange to me, but to hear tales like this about how the mark gets left on you are rather intriguing, and does seem to explain a good deal about you, and how you seem so connected in both mind and body with the foxes. Something which I have also heard referred to as a *spirit animal*, if I remember the terms correctly.

 

It was a long time ago so the details are somewhat fuzzy, but the last one I met that could speak with animals did mention they could do so because they were linked with the beasts through their spirit animal. Might have simply been that one though.

 

But to return to your tale, I did not expect it to have such depth as you described. I do apologize for that, but I just hadn't expected that you found a connection with foxes, and then figured that it was a good idea to help animals in general. It is highly admirable, do not get me wrong, I had simply not seen it coming."

 

"I l-like snakes too. They don't laugh."

 

"Hahaha, well said Brittle.

 

Ah, and whilst I remember it, I can assure you that whatever I have been through is in the past. I have little interest to return to the jungle unless it is to lead an uprising, and that would require evergrown allies first. Something which I am considering asking them for, yet going to attack other tribes are a pretty big step for most, and especially when it's on strange territory. It gives the advantage to the jungle ones, and would require a substantial amount of fighters to overtake them. But this is a heavy-hoofed subject that's best left for the future. Perhaps something I could get the demon mare to help with now that I think on it. She might be able to rally the other snaproots... Hmmm, something to consider certainly.

 

But we are talking and talking to no ends. Perhaps we should stay somewhat in motion as well, and seek an unused tent for you before we grow roots?"

 

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

 

 

@@Lloyd

 

Blackbeak didn't attack Astral, but just reached her talon out and shook the pony's hoof.

 

"Griffins prefer to stay near their own, so not surprising you haven't met others. There's a few of us in Canterlot these days though, so you're likely going to see a few stands through town with some of us around."

 

"Back when I first came to town, Blackbeak here was the only griffin, so I tried to be friendly since I understand 'em better thn equines."

 

"You attacked me, and send us both to prison for the day until they figured out it was meant to be friendly. You were and likely still are an idiot that doesn't get that ponies don't find the same things acceptable as griffins."

 

"Awh, you almost make it sound like you haven't missed me."

 

"I haven't. It was actually rather quiet and enjoyable after you left, and I miss it already. But that's besides the point. I know why you're here. I got your spices packed and ready at the stand."

 

Chow stood and looked perplexed at what he heard.

 

"Wait, how'd you know that... Ooooh."

 

"You should know better than to underestimate Scarcity. She have set gears in motion ever since she heard you stepped into town."

 

"Bloody heck... Well, nothing that can be done 'bout that. You said you had the spices ready, aye? Let's settle things."

 

Blackbeak nodded and went back over to her stall, where she rummaged around a few packs under the desk, looking for the one she had packed up for him. Time that Chow spent by going over to his friends and whisper a bit to them to try and stop the griffin from hearing 'em.

 

"Well, didn't see that one coming, but it'll save us a bit of time and make things go smoother. Long as you don't get snarky towards Blackbeak that is. It counts as a challenge, and I don't wanna see your warding thingies make a mess here and expose you."

 

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

 

 

@@~Phoenix~

@@Widdershins

 

It had been an interesting little battle, but finally it seemed like the claw had surrendered and gone dormant for the time being, which made Smokey hum a little victory fanfare. A silly habit, he knew, but he couldn't help himself sometimes. Just be thankful that he didn't have his trumpet anymore so he could do this properly.

 

"A well deserved victory is ours. Time to claim our prize."

 

"Don't get it too close to you, or it might start acting up again."

 

"Quite right, we should simply have it follow in it's current bonds. Perhaps you can then direct us to where its owner is?"

 

Last rose up, nodded, and started walking towards where she had last seen Widdershine, which left Smokey to give a big grin to Phoenix and lift the double-netted claw up into the air in front of him, like a morbid trophy ready to take on the road.

 

"Shall we be on our way to reunite this limb with its careless owner then, Phoenix? Meeting a draconequus could be rather interesting."

 

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

 

 

@@Moonlit

@@Seamore Sandwich

 

"I'm stationed here in Ponyville actually, but I thank you for your concern ma'am. And I appreciate the offer for food, but I think it better if I go to the food stall. My shift is soon over as it is, and I could use a more hardy meal. Have a safe evening the both of you."

 

With that, Stargazer spread his leathery wings, and flew back towards the building site. He might have said he were going for something to eat, and he were hungry, but he would prefer to end his shift first instead of leaving others hanging when he were technically still on the clock. His work ethics wouldn't allow it unless he had a good reason, and he wasn't famished enough to count that as a good reason currently.

 

*sigh* hopefully when his shift were over, he could be allowed some sleep rather than have more things go wrong today, though with his luck, he might have consider that wishful thinking.

 

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

 

 

@@asdfmovienerd39

 

It wouldn't be long before they caught up to their feathery companions, who seemed to have been talking about something whilst the two were away for a short while. Pyhrus looked a little less self-tormenting in it at least, and had just gone back to grumpy and reserved, whilst Florence looked a little happier about things.

 

"You two seem better. Anything happened?"

 

"N-Nothing major, just had a chance to talk. You two okay?"

 

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

 

 

@@asdfmovienerd39

 

"Eh, I think the little rascals would just end up thinking you're talking silly talk. Foals can be pretty gullible though, so who knows? Might be they'll believe it, but then start to think that the ones you speak of are like, gods. Could end up seven kinda of crazy out of nowhere."

 

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

 

 

@@Lil' Lovebug

 

"Alright then, I'll leave him be."

 

A pity really, as she had started to look forward to seeing what they might be dealing with, but keeping at digging into things were perhaps a bit much anyway, she would agree to that. long as he didn't become an issue they could ignore him for the time being.

 

Besides, as the next questions rang in, she knew that she would be far more busy with explaining herself and her actions to really find any care for some random, potential changeling that were just selling beverages.

 

"I'm far more brittle than what you see Satin. I've had to deal with hatred and discrimination since the day I could utter words and share that I saw the departed, and it never gets any easier. I harbor hatred and anger for almost everypony that I see look at me and judge me unfairly, but I try not to act on it, because I know that I will be no better than what they expect me to be if they do. Just another monster attacking Equestria."

 

To say that she sounded bitter at the end there was to put it mildly.

 

"I sometimes go far away from everypony, and lash out at my surroundings there to let off some steam, but since my release, I have been able to find a few good things in this new age that I can try and focus on and find some joy in, so I don't need to so much.

 

Whatever I am and will become, I refuse to go down the route of becoming a rampaging monster. I will loose what little I have left if it comes to that, and do nothing but prove everypony right. I will rather suffer through this and hope to one day find someplace with understanding, than end up giving in, though it is at times a struggle that I have to handle. Though it helps that my contract with Cadence and Shining Armor prevents me from attacking anypony unless it's in self defense more or less. I made sure that they worded it right."

 

That she worked for the princess of love and her husband came up now and again, but she usually never mentioned their contract. She figured that this would be something that might interest Satin though, and would prove her point after this, regarding her question about why she acted so defensively about the changeling.

 

"Perhaps you will also understand now why I act as I do towards you: Because you are one of the few that doesn't judge me. You were somewhat shocked when I told you things, but you showed sympathy instead of anything negative, and a pony like that is somepony that I can consider a friendly acquaintance at the very least. And to see somepony like that getting the broad side of unreasonable hatred irks me, though perhaps I overreacted a little.

 

You need to understand Satin. I have lived a long life, and am likely bound to live far longer than this. I will not be able to keep any friends that I make, and I accept that, but I will need the good memories to live with myself as the times go by. Something which are never going to be present if I don't at least try to be defensive about the few spots of light in my life, and make the creatures in question feel better.

 

I know it sounds selfish, but it is the only way that I know how to look at it. Believe me, age does not always mean wisdom."

 

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

 

 

@@Midnight_Aurora

 

"I don't wanna hurt anyone. Ponies are friends."

 

Anomaly made a big smile, though she thought about.... No, I'm not going there. She'll have my pen bite me again. Suffice it to say that she thought on something a bit contradictory for the time being.

 

Slowly, somepony took a trying step out from the room. One of the caretakers this time, who had a dangling bundle of keys around his neck. Sometimes he were jokingly called the Keymaster for this reason, though it varied if this was what were focused on, or the fact that he kept bees at home and brought the finished honey to the orphanage.

 

"A-Are you certain about this Cacora? We can't put the foals at risk."

 

Normally, Honey Dew wasn't the nervous type, but the sudden appearance of Anomaly (She had literally grown rapidly out of the ground in the middle of the courtyard) had left him a little worse for the wear, so to speak. Especially since the best word he could find for what Anomaly were would be some kind of draconequus, and he had seen enough of Discord's antics to know that bad thing could happen, even if it were an accident.

 

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

 

 

@@Twilight-Shimmer

@@Widdershins

 

And now they were talking about potentially the world blowing up, oh dear.

 

Now, she was somewhat certain that Widdershine wouldn't attempt this, as she couldn't imagine any being wanting to destroy their own home, but it still wasn't a nice thought that it might crack and burst underneath their hooves. best not to think on this and instead focus on the two that seemed to be talking about energy drinks, of all things. Quite the leap in conversation, but she wasn't going to complain about that.

 

"Well, perhaps the energy drinks haves all sort of ba things in them, but in moderation, it's not too bad. Glugging several of them each day though, that could end up giving all sorts of issues, at least according to the doctors I know.

 

Anyway, we really should get you to the tents in the north end of town Stardust. The drink won't last forever, and finding you a stable place to rest for now will likely be a good thing to get done somewhat fast. We can't have you falling asleep in the middle of the road after all."

[dragon4111 914]

@@Blitz Boom,

"Again it depends on the alicorn," Draco stated as he rubbed his neck. "Ether that or the guard who authorized that transaction," Draco stated with a simple tone. He rubbed his forehead to alleviate the migraine that was forming in his skull. "Trust me when I say friend. A dragon takes his territories quite seriously,"

[Moonlit 593]

@@Seamore Sandwich,@@Blitz Boom, Serenade gives the Guard a nod, then heads back inside. Once there she starts to do her stretches. Wings out then in various positions for flying, diving, hovering. "I know these are essential, but I can go without the stretches." She moves onto her legs and neck. 

[Foxy Socks 2,599]

@@Blitz Boom, 

 

Foxy smiled, glad they were interested in her story. Perhaps she did have some connection with vulpines spiritually, after all, she even looked like one a bit herself. She wondered if there was more to it.

 

"Perhaps they are my spirit animal, I never really thought that to be a thing, but who knows."

 

She looked at Brittle, but only briefly as to not scare her away. Foxy was honestly surprised to her reaction on snakes, even if it was sarcasm. Foxy felt bad for a minute, not knowing what they mean by "not laughing at her," but knew she had a good friend to be with, who she seemed to trust very much.

 

"Oh yes, the tents. They are just right over there," Foxy said, not knowing if Briar could tell or not since he can't see. 

 

She walked over to the numerous temporary homes, not too large, but big enough to live in, and it's not like she needed much anyway. They were organized into quite a few sections, many with were already inhabited by other unfortunate ponies. The tents themselves were slightly varied in color, being reds, blues, and greens, but nothing too bright. They were labeled based on what section they were in and which number tent they were in. She walked around to a half filled one, not too far to where she was. 

 

She looked to see if there were anypony that would direct her, and found one Earth pony standing at the edge of the section, and went over to talk to him, though reluctantly, as she was shy.

 

"Um, hi, I was looking to see if there was anywhere I could stay..."

[FanOfManyShows 396]

@@Blitz Boom,

 

Astral nodded, having already thought of that. "Snarky comments will be held back, hopefully." She whispered, then turning her head to Misty.

 

"I'll be sure to make any either." Misty made sure she was whispering as well, glancing over at Blackbeak. "Why do griffons fight to greet each other?" She asked out in Blackbeak's direction.

 

---

 

He had only arrived at the hive just earlier, he had been trying to explain the situation of those earth ponies the whole time, Nectar wanting to teach them a lesson. "Trust me, they know I'm a good one, I'm sure Chow explained it to them."

 

Nectar stood above him, glaring out the exit in anger. "They tried to kill you."

 

"But that was before he could've explained it." He said, then nervously rubbing his leg. "Although it's mostly my fault for sneaking into that basement anyways. They didn't even add in a way to open the door after it closed."

 

"So you traped yourself in their basement?" He smiled sheepishly, and nodded. "I'll give you that." She walked past him to the exit. "But they did use sorcery while trying, So I'd have to alert Celestia of the possible danger."

 

Francis looked down, there wasn't anything he could say to keep her from doing that. Plus, he could get in trouble afterwards. "You are right."

 

She leaned back, wings fully extended, and with one flap she flew forward at an alarming speed, heading to Canterlot castle, ready to meet Celestia face to face and she had before so she knew it wouldn't go south like it did the first time. She landed on the balcony, looking around for her inside the room "Celestia? I have something to tell you!" She shouted out, hoping Celestia was there.

Edited March 25, 2017 by Lloyd

[EQ_Theta 457]

@@Blitz Boom

 

"Thank you but that's not necessary," Sen grunted under the stinging pain. The wounds on his body began close themselves, even the deep gashes that left more than just his scaly exterior open. His wings had just finished regenerating lost pieces and in a few short seconds, he looks good as new. He still feels the many lingering bumps or sores but he has grown accustomed to those over years of hunter training. "Calling you and sister abominations, that was really insensitive of them."

Lin walked up to the two of them and covered one of her eyes with her claw. The impact from that tomato looked like it hurt more than expected but she remained unfazed. Mostly. She had one look at her brother and was relieved to see more serious injury couldn't deter him. She then turned to Omen and did the same. 
 
"I don't understand. The villagers had every right to be suspicious but they went too far. Are you sure they're in a safe place, Omen? I'm concerned when they come back from... wherever they were sent, they might come back for us. Maybe wiping their minds before brining them back might ease some worries?"

Sen remembered there was something else bothering him. The angry mob coming to attack them only soured his mood for the day but he continued in the direction of the cave. Something about what went on in the clinic left him unsure about what he would do to anyone who turn their back on him, and whether they still deserved something more than just their guilt. 

"About what I wanted to discuss with you, Omen. Do they deserve another chance? What about Xin? What they did to us, wanting to hurt us and... If I did something so terrible and unforgivable to you, would you give me the chance to atone no matter how unsympathetic I could be? It's a hypothetical question but I'm having that problem and I don't know how to proceed." 

Edited March 31, 2017 by EQ_Theta

[~Phoenix~ 196]

@@Blitz Boom,

 

phoenix glanced at smokey a bit awkwardly. he was talking to her as if they were already friends. it wasn't necessarily welcome in Phoenix's eyes, but she could definitely control herself. for the time being she would simply have to deal with it. after all, she didn't see any way that this stallion could be a threat to her. however, she didn't forget the real thing she wanted to go after. the blade being held by that mare. "what about her?" she asked, nodding in Last's direction, her eyes fixated on the sword. if she wanted to know about it, she'd have to deal with these ponies for a little while longer, she supposed. 

[Midnight_Aurora 571]

*Cacora nods smiling.* "She hasn't shown me any reason yet to go a bit crazy. You know how I get when it comes to the Orphanage. Protecting what I care about tends to have odd side affects on those whom wish to cause harm. Besides, we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. Take those new changelings for example. Many put them in the category of that Chrysalis Hive because of what happened in Canterlot at first. But then, when given the chance, they showed us they weren't the same. This can be applied to Anomaly as well. Besides, you and the other caretakers already know of my Empathic nature. Normally if one's emotions are in line with dark intentions, I would know. Anomly hasn't given me a reason not to trust her. But.....If one is given, I will use all I am to protect the Orphanage and the foals. You caretakers have given me so much. It's the least I can do to return the favor."

 

*Cacora turns to Anomaly and says,* "You do understand what I am implying? If It turns out you do desire harm to that which I care for, I won't hesitate to stop you. It isn't out of mistrust that I say this, it is only so that one knows I will do just about whatever it takes to protect what I charish most. I would even face the Changeling Queen herself to protect them."

 

*She then takes a calming breath so that the fear the others are projecting doesn't affect her judgement. Then she says,* "However, I trust you mean no harm. Here in Ponyville friendship is magic and well, everypony and being needs a friend now and again."

[Twilight-Shimmer 151]

@Blitz Boom

@Widdershins

 

Stardust nodded a bit "I only drink energy drinks when I really need em or need to wake up quick" he replied cheerfully then looked up at Lily "So you think somepony where we are heading could help me get settled into town? he asked before tilting his head a bit "Of course that means I will need to explain my curse again, along with my curse mark" he added glancing to his cutie mark before looking back up at Lily "But I guess there's no helping it" he sighed shaking his head "Pity be the fool who yearns tor eternity, even more so the fool who obtains it though I doubt they wind up as Eternal five year old's via a curse" he chuckled.slighty

[genessee 535]

@Blitz Boom (Aw man, color change)

"Well, the way I thought of it was that I was going to end up as some kind of parkour master and land with, like, I don't know, flips and some other stupid stunt-y things. I doubt that would've happened, though."

 

Lance quietly shifted in his seat.

 

 

[BloodDrops 762]

On 22/03/2017 at 8:27 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Let me get this straight. You're saying that you did not only unleash a plague that killed thousands of beings, but also left it in a state where there's still some wandering around, and biting others to convert them to their illness?"

Blood blinked at her dumbly like it was a super big issue. She then snorted slightly angrily, like it was her actual fault. "If every time you raised your hoof, it caused lightning to strike the ground. How long would it be before you did a careless jester that ended up hurting some pony?" she retorted back. "Now consider the implications of if you sneezed, coughed, touched another pony you spread a deadly toxic virus. How long until it actually happened?" she asked. 

"I didn't unleash anything, it was only a matter of time until it spread" she added tutting.

 

On 22/03/2017 at 8:27 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Do you have any idea what sort of impact you are describing? Killing several thousands is one thing, and will be dealt with in time when I find out exactly how deliberate you were about that, as well as if you did this other places too. But to then leave a place where several infected still roams around, and potentially spreading this to the entirety of Equestria and beyond?

"They were on a island, nice and contained, they might be still a few infected but they don't know how to use boats. If they managed to get on board another ponies boat, then well thats there problem" she remarked.

 

On 22/03/2017 at 8:27 PM, Blitz Boom said:

I would ask if your brain had melted out through your ears, but I think the answer is an obvious yes. So instead of you thinking on this, let me tell you what will happen: I will take you back there, this will be fixed in one way or another, and then you will face what you have done. Come peacefully or be forced, I don't care. You're getting us there one way or another, so that this mess can be dealt with properly."

Blood Drops sat down, "i'm not going back there, was hard enough swimming off the island. Not to mention stopping you getting infected" she remarked. She sat down and blinked stubbornly at her, she wasn't going to move anytime soon. 

[Lil' Lovebug 1,041]

Satin placed her hoof on Vivid's, sitting there in silence for a moment. Various thoughts were jumbled in her head. Her mouth opened and closed, but the various questions, assertions and comments failed her. Eventually she managed an "I see."

"I guess let me start by saying thank you." Satin smiled and a soft blush grew upon her carapace. "It's nice to feel appreciated and cared about. It's also nice to find someone I can relate to, though I wish those relations didn't have to exist." Satin looked down at the table, the look on her face becoming somber. "Maybe with time we can help each other."

Satin paused for a moment and removed her hoof from Vivid's before continuing. "So you're under contract by the Princess of Love and the ex-Captain of the Royal Guard?" Satin visibly shuddered while saying Shining Armor's old title. "I remember you saying something about 'new masters' when you first told me about yourself. I find it... intriguing that they are who your contract is with. I guess if you were trapped in crystal before the disappearance of the Crystal Empire, it makes sense."

Edited March 27, 2017 by Lil' Lovebug

[Twilight-Shimmer 151]

(forgive my occ in the main RP thread but I cannot locate the ooc thread, but can I assume this thing will be paused till tracking is 100% fixed with the new site update? seeing as, it isnt keeping track of posts anymore.)

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

"Let's hope then that the alicorn doesn't clash with him. Otherwise, it might end with Ponyville being reclassified from damaged, to complete rubble."

Clockwork felt the dread looming over his head in the form of the thoughts of the potentially upcoming battle, but he tried to keep it at bay. It wasn't guaranteed to end badly thus far after all, only if the alicorn began to act petty rather than try and speak reasonably with the guild leader. Alicorns were supposed to be leaders and think of the civilians, so surely, he wouldn't go and put everypony in danger by acting poorly there... Right?

"I-I know you will k-keep them focused Draco, so we can all be s-safe."

Long Stare's voice were as minute as usual as she finally broke her silence to give a vote of confidence (nervousness aside) to Draco. She didn't want to think he'd do something that he knew would end badly, so she would think that if they started arguing, that he would keep them straight rather than have them fight it out. He had summoned the guild leader here after all, he should be listened to then.

Clockwork had no idea what the nervous mare had said, and he wasn't going to ask. Years of having to be around clocks had made him tune out sounds under a certain volume to not go mad from the constant ticking, so even if the whisper had been somewhat possible to hear, he hadn't registered it.

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

 

@Moonlit@Seamore Sandwich

"Perhaps it's a bit boring, but you know what Derpy said. You gotta keep up the training, especially if you wanna soar high."

Ziggy also agreed with Derpy from a medical point of view, which had mostly to do with cramps rather than keeping up training, but she could understand that this might be a bit boring. Perhaps if she joined in it'd be better? Hehe, yeah, that'd be fun.

So she bounced over and started to stretch with Serenade, and did hers to try and follow troop on the current movements she had reached, which wasn't a problem. That the zegasus shortly after started to noticeably hum a training montage sort of song and half-dance to it however, might be a bit off putting. She were just having some fun with this though, just as she were when she suddenly stopped the stretching and with a big grin on her face exclaimed:

"Alright everypony, time for moonwalking."

It was something she had seen her brother do a fair amount of times, and he were pretty good at it. As were she... For the first five seconds or so until she stumbled and tumbled into the pool with a small splash, and accompanied with the sound of a laughing mimic.

She were soon up and spouted a bit of water out of her muzzle though, so she seemed okay. Doubly so when a light went off over her head about the pool being full of things with sharp teeth and she bolted out of there and up to the *shore* if you would call it that. Hopefully nothing had bitten her and gotten stuck on her tail or something similar like that. She already had one little thing that chewed on her, and frankly didn't need more.

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

 

@Lloyd

"It's not the regular way, but it's seen as friendly with us since we're used to make friends by ruffling around when we're kids. Usually it's only close ones or bored ones that have a random go at another later on, but this idiot doesn't seem to have gotten that memo."

"Yeah yeah, blame a guy for trying to be friendly. Y'know, sometimes you can be so stuck-up."

Blackbeak snorted irritatingly in his general direction.

"We're not friends Chow. The only reason I endure your company when you come around is that you're good for profit, and because Scarcity wouldn't approve of hearing that I gave you the beating I sometimes think you deserve."

"Ever the vigilant servant, eh?"

"...We all have our debt to pay."

Blackbeak fell silent and pulled a bag up from behind the counter that gave of a mixed, rich smell of several spices, then tossed it over on Chow who caught it on his back.

"There, we're done. Any of you two shopping for spices?"

She directed this last part to Astral and Misty, whom hadn't said that they were looking for something yet, though who knew? Might be that they just preferred to watch her and Chow bicker instead.

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

 

@Foxy Socks

The earth pony turned around and gave Foxy and her companions a somewhat searching glance.

"All three together? We're trying to reserve the big tents for families, not friends."

"No worries sir, it is only her. We are simply helping our friend to find a place to stay. She is one of the unfortunate souls that lost her house in the recent attack."

"Ah, understandable."

The pony gave a look of understanding towards Foxy, which seemed to indicate that he were also one of those who had lost a home in this attack, before looking down on his clipboard and going through a few pages before looking up at them again.

"We have a bunch that have gotten empty in a nearby green section. I think number 43 should do the trick for now. It's that way for about fifty meters, then take a right and you should see it."

The areas were marked with poles going over if it was a 40 area, 30, 20, etc. depending on the area. Currently, they were in a 10 section, and the direction that they were pointed towards would follow the increase in numbers until they would eventually reach the one he scribbled down as now being occupied.

"Thank you. Let us proceed then Foxy, yes?"

 

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

 

@EQ_Theta

"I don't care what they call me. Makes no difference. And most of the mean ones are in or around the town Lin. Not the last one though. I sent her home. She'll be back soon. Hopefully she remembers what I said to her too, about sending her to dragon land if she goes after you again."

Why Lin cared about those mean ones Omen hadn't any idea about, but perhaps she were just more empathetic towards other beings than her. Or well, she knew that Lin were, as she quite frankly didn't think of the ones she sent away more after they were out of her sight (minus the *ring leader*) but she meant more in the sense that Lin apparently cared for her enemies more than Omen could understand.

As for how she handled being called names... Well, she had heard far worse and in more words than what had been tossed out at the end, and she didn't really see what the issue were with any of the things she had been told here honestly. Far as she understood, abomination meant that you were something unnatural, and she were. She were a soul given shape with shadow and chaos after all. Seemed rather unnatural and freakish to her.

"And I don't understand, why wouldn't I give you a chance Sen? You're my friend, and friends are supposed to be there for eachother, yes? How would that make sense with turning the back on you if you make one mistake? It doesn't sound right.

Also, what do you mean with unforgivable? What can't be forgiven? Eating me?"

The question seemed illogical to Omen as she asked Sen further about his inquiry, all the while tilting her head from side to side, as she tended to do when she were confused about something and wanting to turn it in her head. It didn't have to be that literal quite frankly, but she tended to take expressions somewhat direct, like the time Discord had told her that if you looked at a pot, it'd never boil, which lead her to close her eyes around cooking wares and then touching them once in a while for a few months, just to see if not looking at them were what made them warm.

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

 

@~Phoenix~@Widdershins

"We will follow her towards the draconequus, return the lost limb, and from there on out? It is hard to say, but since we both seem to have a vested interest in her blade, perhaps we can wander with her for long enough to allow us to have a closer look."

Smokey might have had a bit of a look already, but it was hardly anything, and didn't even involve any testing to see what the flames were truly made from, so he still had much to learn in his mind.

"Now that we are following her however, perhaps we can get a little more acquainted? I do apologize if it's a bit too forthcoming, but I simply cannot help myself when meeting somepony like you, whom embodies the beauty and finesse of the birds of legend so splendidly."

He turned a corner along with his companions, as Last lead them onward to where she had last seen Widdershine.

"I can start if you prefer. For example, I can tell that I hail from the east, beyond Equestria, far up in the mountains where life is harsh, but rewarding. As long as you don't insult the local kitsune that is. Random tricksters normally, and cruel beings if you get on their bad side.

They're rather easy to spot, as they are fox-like in appearance, though larger than ponies and usually filled to the brim with magic. Not the most talkative bunch right off the bat though, but sometimes that's for the better. Hard to get them to keep quiet in the long run if they first got started."

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

When Cacora turned towards Anomaly, said female being were in the process of blowing a bubble out of her mouth that looked like it was made of chocolate. One which, after it was blown and floated down towards the ground, apparently got a solid form as it hit with a noticeable thunk, and the smell of rich coco.

"I get it, but I don't wanna harm others anyway. The ponies who made me said I was supposed to, but I want to make things, not destroy them."

The point came more across when the chocolate ball unfolded into a dark armadillo, that went over to Honey Dew and sniffed his leg, which made the caretaker wince a little, though he tried to keep calm at the strange, but honestly harmless prank being pulled on him.

"Very well, just... Keep an eye on her Cacora, please. You know how draconeuui can suddenly take things too far."

Honey went back to the room and after rummaging around and whispering a little, the foals started to exit the room and go between looking worried at the pumpkin-headed Anomaly, or flock over to Cacora who-

"Hi foals. Are you feeling better?"

Could I not have one post without the interference, please?

"You were the one who said they were walking out, and I wanna make a good impression on them, not you. You're a weird one."

Typical, told off by a fictional character... Alright then, the foals wondered around, some asking Cacora if she were okay, some what you were, and if you were going to eat them, and... Back to blowing bubbles I see? Well, at least this time it's just bubble gum ones that's floating through the air this time. Hopefully that wouldn't become an issue.

"See Cacora? No destruction, no spreading hate, no hurting the tiny foals. So no problem, yes? Oh, and do you want an armadillo too? I think that one likes your friend."

A bit of an understatement, as the conjured beast had wrapped around Honey Dew's hoof and refused to let go as he tried to shake it off, and not knowing what exactly to say in this situation.

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

 

@genessee@Shineling

Void looked concerned at Lance for a moment, contemplating what she were supposed to say to his reasons for jumping off a roof, as well as being generally worried that he had gotten seriously hurt. He seemed fine the longer she looked at him, but falling from a roof and trying to make moves at the same time sounded very dangerous to her, so she had to take an extra glance just to be sure there were no permanent damage.

"O-Oh dear, that sounds like a dangerous idea. You could get it d-done though, if you trained a little. Even if it's not your s-specialty, you can still be good at things with enough time. Like uhm... I-I learned glass-blowing so I could m-make my own glass eye. Wasn't pretty for a long time, b-but it got better. Most doesn't even s-seem to notice."

It was a bit of a hard topic to land on constantly, so she were happy that it wasn't brought up all the time as she were trying to blend in here in Ponyville first, but Lance and her had a good conversation going and this served as an example of what she meant, so it wasn't too bad. Long as he didn't start to tell everypony right off the bat, that then got around with questions that were. That might make things a bit harder to swallow.

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

 

@Twilight-Shimmer@Widdershins

So the little one were cursed to eternally live like this? Dear Celestia, that sounded horribly.

"I'm... Sorry to hear about that. Have you veer tried to find a way to get rid of the curse, or is it too dangerous? Like, if it went off, would all the years just suddenly fall on you at once?"

A small light went off in her head as she recalled what else they were supposed to do, then with a minor cough pointed towards the tent area and started to walk again.

"Right, we have to keep moving and get you to a tent first. Hopefully they haven't filled all of them up."

They were close, so it wouldn't be too long. Close enough in fact, so that she could see a group talking with whom she assumed were one of the ponies in charge of this. At least considering what she thought was a clipboard. They were still some way from them, so she couldn't be sure, but she did think she saw that, and she definitely saw the changeling, strange-looking pony and... Well, other strange-looking pony really, though considering how different ponies looked like, who were she to judge others for a few physical oddities she hadn't seen yet.

"Huh, a changeling. Seems like this town is really attracting all sorts of folks."

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

 

@Widdershins@Seamore Sandwich

"Y'know, I ain't thinking that this is the best place to have a nap mate."

The chipper voice came from the right of Ambie, where a salespony with a tussled mane and healing scars going over him glanced at the pony with a friendly grin before pulling him out of the fountain by the mane. At least on the surface, Happy seemed to greet the other pony well, though inside he wondered what the heck were wrong with this guy since he had seemed like he were trying to drown himself. Not something he could outright say of course, since that'd blow his *nice guy* cover, but he could darn well think that this guy was a lunie. Well, that or passed out somehow he supposed. Seemed to be a lot of lumber near him, so might've been a long day for him.

"Besides, if you want a drink, you should just come looking for me mate. Happy Hour got you covered."

The wagon he had with him might be closed up now and a bit of a mess inside, but it wouldn't take too long to get something from in there if it were. Besides, what could he say? A sale was a sale, no matter how weird the potential customer were.

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

 

@BloodDrops@Missklang@Shineling

"I can make you go if I want to, little pony."

Nerzhei plunged her right fist into the ground and with her magic, made a glove of rocks around her hand which were grinding into her flesh in a very uncomfortable manner. Not enough to hurt her, but enough to sour her mood a little for the time being.

"Now, you make a fair point about how it was inevitable to spread, but it still needs to be taken care off, even if it is an island. Nothing can remain contained forever, and sooner or later, whoever is still there will cross the water, or somepony else will go there that just gets infected, then escapes and brings it to the main land. It needs to be handled, and I will have you be part of cleaning it up, if you want to or not. How I haven't a clue yet, since I can't test your blood to attempt an antivirus, but there have to be something that can be done. Like perhaps a... Herb that could come in handy... Hmmm."

She put her stone-encased fist to her chin and started scratching as she thought over what she had accidentally wandered into of information. A tidbit which could help them actually, though she hadn't a clue of how yet. She hadn't even a half plan currently, but it would just have to be one of those things that got done as they went along.

"Perhaps I have someone that can help with things actually. She's not flesh and blood, so the disease shouldn't touch her, and if there's any herb that could prove helpful, she'd be the one to know... Yes, I'd have to ask Lyriel about this on the way. But first, we're leaving Blood. And as I said, it can be by choice, or by force. I can lift you if I need to, though i can't see why you can't just come by your own accord. Surely you'd care about what happened to others out there, at least for personal gain.

Imagine if you will, what would happen if it got out to the leaders of Equestria and other nearby countries, what you had done and can do. You'd be hunted relentlessly, and then it'd be over with your attempts at going through towns unseen. You would quite likely be the most wanted civilian out there.

And if that's not enough, you seemed to enjoy dragon blood before. Could be I could be convinced to part with more of it, depending on your willingness to do something right, as well as covering your own flank."

Meanwhile, inside the hut, Molotov were rummaging through the crates to look for something he could craft into a strong enough explosive to make an actual threat to the ones outside. There seemed to be plenty of materials in here, but the labels meant little to him beyond the one with metal in it, and he didn't have a forge here. Damn typical.

Blitz were looking over and trying to find out what he were doing when Stormy poked his head in and she got distracted towards him instead, or more specifically, the bag of fun things he had brought with him.

"Yey, fun things to test! I bet they'll make pretty colors and loud noises soon. Thanks Stormy."

Blitz bounced over and attatched herself to his neck this time, whilst thoughts swirled in her head of what fun things she could do with these things once she tried to poke them a little, then crush them and see what would happen. Most stuff here in the Everfree required her to crush it to dust to be workable for some reason.

"Oh, oh, and say thanks to Grey too! Is he okay? Haven't seen him for days. Missed hearing you poking to him about Scootaloo. Hehe."

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

 

@The Power of Love Compels You

"I was sent against Discord on behalf of my old masters back when he still ruled the lands, and he found the demands I carried infuriating enough to trap me in crystal and leave me in some cave in the crystal kingdom, to teach my old masters that he were not a pawn of anypony. A place that I spent millennia in, thinking and dreaming mostly until eventually the royal couple stumbled over me some months ago.

I was in a poor shape. Famished and nearly unable to move from being trapped in the same position for so long, I would've been an easy one to trap again if they even put a little effort into it. But they listened to my weak plea for mercy, and were understanding enough to consider giving me a chance. So since I couldn't feel the hooks my old masters had in my soul anymore, I wrote a new contract with them in blood, to serve the royal house until either they or I were truly dead, and then helped them formulate the bond correctly so I couldn't be turned against them in any sort of way, no matter how manipulated I might become. Demonic contracts are binding, and trying to go against them can actually kill the demon in question. That's why so many leaves loopholes for themselves.

Regardless, I wouldn't voluntarily hurt them anyway. They have given me the chance to live again, and helped me when I were at my absolute worst. I owe them everything, but they aren't looking to cash in on it. They allow me mostly to be free to make my own choices, see the lands for myself and just be ready if they call me for anything. Be it Cadence that thinks I need to watch another play or other cultural thing, them needing a guard/something done discreetly, or either of them needing help with Flurry Heart. Doesn't matter.

It is rather good to get this off my chest actually. Normally I don't have anypony to speak about things such as this. Thank you for listening to me Satin."

Edited April 2, 2017 by Blitz Boom
Forgot something.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom@Seamore Sandwich

Serenade looks over upon hearing the splash and bursts out laughing, "I'll go and grab you a towel. Oh, and next time you want to go swimming, let me know and I'll make sure supper isn't around to bother you" Sereande trots over to where she keeps towels then hands one to Ziggy. 

[Foxy Socks 2,599]

@Blitz Boom

Foxy looked down the direction of her tent. 

"Okay, thank you!" she replied to the Earth pony, and nodded toward Briar and Brittle. It wasn't too far of a walk, but enough to get her thinking. How long would she have to live like this? Should she continue being friends with the two, or move on and forget about them?

Foxy had smiled just a bit when assumed they were friends by the Earth pony. She still had just met them, but she felt like they were special. They were kind, fascinating, and both had past struggles it seems.

She hoped to eventually have the Brittle feel comfortable around her, but it would take some time. There was something she liked about her, perhaps reminding her of her own timidness, or perhaps the fact she was a Changeling with an apparent difficult past. Foxy felt sympathetic toward Changelings even if they were seen as evil. She wanted Brittle to not have to be so scared of everypony. Foxy wanted to say something to help, but nothing would now.

At least Brittle had a good friend like Briar. That made Foxy feel a little better.

Halfway there she turned and smiled toward both of them. Queer ponies indeed, but good ones at that.

"So what are you two going to do now? Now that you have helped me get here, I assume you will have other things to do."

 

(Color may be different due to forum change.)

Edited April 2, 2017 by Foxy Socks
color

[Twilight-Shimmer 151]

@Blitz Boom

 

"Yes, any attempt to remove my curse or alter it in anyways, will result in all the lost passed years to return to me all at once, effectively killing me on the spot" Stardust replied as he followed Amazon Lily and widdershins. "I Suppose it could be worse, there were much much darker curses the mage that cursed me could have used" he added with a shrug "On the Plus side means I get to see many many new things during my long life" he giggled

[genessee 535]

@Blitz Boom

"Yeah! Well, you only get good at something if you practice in the time you do it. If I wanted to get better at, I don't know, tag, doing the same thing every game, hiding in the same spot, wouldn't get me better. Let's just assume the ponies I'm playing with don't catch on that I hide in the same spot. If I hid in the same bush every round, I wouldn't get better. When somepony would suggest tag, I would be destroyed unless the big bush was nearby. So in order to get good at something, you have to focus on new things every game. For example, I might practice running for a while. Every game I would, like, run in front of the pony who's 'it' and try to outrun them every time. Eventually I'd be a very good runner. But what if I'm cornered? Well, then I need to practice hiding. In this example I would try to find what makes a hiding spot 'good', like being original so nopony else gets there first, clever so nopony checks there, and convenient if I need to get out quickly. I would try to be able to identify a good hiding spot quickly without ever seeing it before. Then I would work on other things, but I think you get the idea. If I worked on these, I'll bet I could get good at tag faster than if I just ran around like an idiot every game."

 

Lance paused as he realised he not only totally overthought what Void said but also overthought on the wrong part. Was I supposed to say something about blowing glass? Or- or the glass eye? Arrgh, Lance, you're so stupid. Lance blushed.

 "Sorry, I kinda, uh, geeked out there. You probably think I'm weird, right?.."

 

[Storm Shine 1,196]

@Blitz Boom

 

Storm smiled and gave her a quick hug, "Grey is doing pretty good and I'll let him know you said thanks. He found the pinecones, and a few of the other things." He chuckled slightly, "In fact, I bet Grey is doing pretty great; seeing as he's probably with Scootaloo at the moment." The blue pegasus added with obvious amusement. "I'll probably tease him a little about it later, and I'll try to bring him by to visit soon."

[~Phoenix~ 196]

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"We will follow her towards the draconequus, return the lost limb, and from there on out? It is hard to say, but since we both seem to have a vested interest in her blade, perhaps we can wander with her for long enough to allow us to have a closer look."

Smokey might have had a bit of a look already, but it was hardly anything, and didn't even involve any testing to see what the flames were truly made from, so he still had much to learn in his mind.

"Now that we are following her however, perhaps we can get a little more acquainted? I do apologize if it's a bit too forthcoming, but I simply cannot help myself when meeting somepony like you, whom embodies the beauty and finesse of the birds of legend so splendidly."

He turned a corner along with his companions, as Last lead them onward to where she had last seen Widdershine.

"I can start if you prefer. For example, I can tell that I hail from the east, beyond Equestria, far up in the mountains where life is harsh, but rewarding. As long as you don't insult the local kitsune that is. Random tricksters normally, and cruel beings if you get on their bad side.

They're rather easy to spot, as they are fox-like in appearance, though larger than ponies and usually filled to the brim with magic. Not the most talkative bunch right off the bat though, but sometimes that's for the better. Hard to get them to keep quiet in the long run if they first got started."

Phoenix took another glance at the blade, continuing to ponder what sort of magic it held, and if there was any way she can make use of that knowledge. would she perhaps be able to acquire one of her own? she was practically dying to know the process of how a blade was imbued with the magic of the mythical bird. she turned to Smokey as he began to speak. 

she nodded in response to his plan, but then she cocked her head slightly as she heard him switch topics. she recoiled a bit at his compliment. she was unsure of what to think of it. at first, she felt a bit flabbergasted. it certainly wasn't something she was used to, nor did she ever expect it. i mean, there was no doubt that she was adept in her magic, but beauty? she wasn't so sure about that.

however, it seemed as though smokey didn't quite notice as he continued on, droning about his past. he certainly was the talkative one. unfortunately, Phoenix wasn't the type of pony who enjoyed it all too much. as they began trotting along, she simply continued to listen. maybe he was so self obsessed that she wouldn't ever need to relinquish any details about herself.  

[asdfmovienerd39 55]

On ‎3‎/‎24‎/‎2017 at 7:13 PM, Blitz Boom said:

stuff

 

 

 

"I'm much better now, thanks.." Zen offered a small smile and a light sniffle to signify that while she was over all the crying, she was still hurting. 

------------------------------------------------------

"Yeah, and I reeeeaaalllly don't wanna go down as the first pony in history to  accidentally create a new religion. That'd get me in whole heaps of trouble." Deadpan explained, "Mostly with my roleplayer." he added.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@@Blitz Boom

"Of course I wouldn't eat you. That's way too much for me; I can't imagine ever being put in the position of eating anyone. I'd rather starve, really. But back to the question, unforgivable isn't the same for everyone but at some point, something must cross the line, something that tells you enough is enough. Xin sold me out when I thought he'd be a steadfast and loyal friend. We grew up together, watched each other's backs, and then he turns around and prepares to hand me over on a silver plate. Betrayal... that's something I can't forgive."

Sen's anger was seething but some part of him wanted to believe otherwise. He wanted to be the friend that didn't fall short of the ideal, and he wanted to believe Xin could change. But there's always the problem of ideals: they never work out in reality. A naive delusion but he wanted to believe ideals can be lived out in reality. It says something about why he throws himself into danger for his friends. He didn't want them hurt so he takes the hits for them. 

Their destination wasn't too far away but Lin sped things up before elder Ghilan starts worrying about them. Apart from the calming atmosphere of the forest, Lin worried about the those Omen sent through her gates. They will remember what happened to them but she didn't know if that would convince them to stand down the next time they meet. Maybe their anger will intensify. They'll want revenge and Lin can't argue with emotions. Maybe this is a battle they can't win.

"Come on," Lin said to the two. "It's mostly straightforward from here. The place we're going to doesn't see many visitors and if we're fast enough, we could clear out before anyone could come looking for us."