open Casual stroll

~Phoenix~ · November 17, 2017

Phoenix looked up at Smokey from her sitting position as he explained why he hadn't told her. she gave a slight nod in agreement. she could definitely understand why he would be so careful about telling ponies about his wealth. it were an easy thing to judge somepony by. and Phoenix herself would hate to be judged so harshly, especially considering where she had come from. although, it certainly seemed like whatever this job was, it did a fair bit more than simply pay well

although it were a bit of a shock at first, she was able to quickly recover. she stood up happily as the subject quickly turned to food. she were excited to see what sort of food would come of a place like this. for most of her life it had been simple baked goods, and any raw unclean vegetables she could scrounge up. she knew of a patch where wild edible roots often grew, and she had plenty of them to keep her going. but they were quite flavorless and tough.

as they approached the kitchen, Phoenix could pick up a scent of sorts. she didn't know what it was, but it certainly got the right amount of attention from her. her mouth began watering from the delicious scent, and she had to swallow a few times in order to stop her mouth from overflowing with saliva.

as the kitchen came into view, she noticed another pony there. being the awkward one that she was, she tried to ignore him, in hopes to avoid the possibility of conversing with him. she would simply not have anything worth saying.

as Smokey talked to the unfamiliar stallion, Phoenix found herself a seat at the large U-shaped table. she marveled at it, and took note of its rather odd shape. just how many ponies were meant to be able to dine here? although she wouldn't dare ridicule smokey on his decisions, it most certainly seemed like he went overboard with this place.

as this train of thought rolled on by, Phoenix was suddenly surprised by the strange tall glass that was placed in front of her, along with the fruity smelling blood-red liquid. she was rather unsure of what to do.

she looked up at Smokey, who was sat across from her "well, i do have a few questions... but i don't want to ask anything you're not willing to answer..." she replied to smokey's statement. she knew that some ponies could be rather annoyed when too many personal questions were asked of them.

EQ_Theta · November 17, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Lin clawed her way past a few clusters of rock and gem, carefully winding her way around not having to touch the formations. Each swipe a precise cut. The first few swings felt natural, cutting further in but every now and then, she'd feel numbness on the tips of her phalanges before needing to take a break. About three breaks in and she noticed the Refraction looking at her and trying to get her attention. She looked at the section of wall where it is boring into before noticing some strange barrier keeping the creature at bay.

Seemed like magic at first glance that she could likely find some workaround. She studied it for a few moments before trying to sink one claw in to see how it would react. It was... elastic? It wasn't the right word she had in mind but it certainly felt something like it. The barrier would open at parts before forming around her claws, which would require careful fiddling if she was going to avoid the crystal cluster the barrier was surrounding. Lin managed to get a sizeable hole open for the Refraction to burn through the crystal.

"Here you go," Lin cheerfully said as she watched the creature to see what it will do. "Some room for you to work your magic."

Though her demeanor was still consistent with trying to keep a positive outlook despite feeling the pressure to give in to despair, there was a sinking feeling deep down. Lin had some suspicions that maybe she and the Refraction weren't the only ones in the mines. The constantly shifting barrier hinted that something is aware of what her little drake could do....

And whoever or whatever is in there, she suspects it is adapting.

Blitz Boom · November 17, 2017

@EQ_Theta @Shineling

The Refraction wriggled with eagerness when Lin started to help it, and go against the weird field that was keeping it away from the good lunch/power source. Much like a bee near a window, it kept pushing against it, thinking it was gone now and wanting to get closer to the slowly sinking cluster.

A triumphant, small roar escaped it as Lin finally broke through, and it slithered across her outstretched arm towards the gem. Excited, it literally launched itself from his carer's claw to embrace as much of the large cluster as the tiny body would allow, and bit down.

The gem seemingly tried to fight back, like the first bundle around Omen had. It grew, lurched, and tried to embrace the small creature, but it wasn't fast enough. More efficiently than the gems could spread, they got drained, and the barrier that had been set around it started to waver and falter completely. In a last, desperate attempt to do something, it broke off the part of itself that the little draconic creature hung unto, exposing something weird.

Beneath the outer shell of the cluster, sat a glass orb. Runes could be seen on the side, blushing up weakly a few times, but considering the large gash down the side and how empty it seemed, it appeared as if something had been taken from this. Though something may still be left, considering the lingering, but weak glow from the runes.

The refraction did not care about that. It wanted the gems, and the part of it that had been taken were not enough, so it slithered over and grabbed hold once more, clawing and biting to secure its hold as the energy around it started to spark more and more-

There would be little time to react after that. The Refraction would have taken in more than it could handle at once, turned around to the wall where Lin and it had been before, and let out a large, furious flame of glittery whiteness. It would hammer through the rocks for several meters, and make en eerie sound emate from the new walls, but it might also do another thing, which were to hit Lin.

The thing to be happy about for her were that the flames were apparently not fatal. Unlike the normal flames this creature had used a rare few times to protect itself, or to gain something - it had almost set fire to a book once for attention - it didn't appear to burn.

However, the bad news were that the if the energy hit her, it would feel like her brain was being assaulted with colors and weird sounds, which might well overwhelm her and make her disoriented for some time. It were likely not the effect it should have, but really, only Discord knew what it might really be, and it might well be a defensive thing against living things, and something that could harm things that did not have a habit of breathing.

Still, Lin may have just avoided it, as she would likely have seen what the Refraction did when it got enough energy in it outside, and could see the signs. Plus, it should be obvious which way it wanted to blast, but just in case she was distracted, there were this.

After the flames, the only thing that would be left would be half a cluster of gems - which the Refraction was greedily making into a block of diamonds as well - and the orb, who would soon after pop out of the gem and fall down on the ground in front of the half-devoured cluster.

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@~Phoenix~

"No need to be modest, ask away. I owe you some answers after all.

Perhaps I could start by telling you about my line of work? I'm an adventurer. And a pretty good one at that, if I have to say so myself."

A chuckling was heard from Grim as he stopped at the pots and went over to a rather large fridge to pull out a few things.

"You know, I could fire you Grim."

The chuckling stopped, and the two stallions looked at one another. A few seconds passed, and they both went into a small laughter.

"Heh, there's a joke if I've ever heard one. Now where was I again... Ah yes, my job.

I do the typical things. Explore uncharted islands, forgotten places on maps, sometimes looking under well known places to find buried tombs, temples, and all that kind of thing. Per law, I then have to donate the things of historical importance to the museum in whatever country I find myself in. I then get a small gratitude payment, and move on. Really, it pays rather poorly, and if it was simply that, I would live as badly as that short-sighted mare, Daring Do."

He scoffed slightly. Daring Do and him had met, both int he field and outside, and quite frankly,t he two of them did not get along whatsoever.

She were of the conviction that everything should be stored, handed over, or just left there to no point at all, which made her little more than a foolish goodie two-shoes in Smokey's eyes.

She on the other hand, thought of his politics as vile and openly called him out as a bottom-feeding grave-robber. She had even mentioned him a few times in her books. Not by name or enough description to make anypony know, but he knew the small things she put in there were aimed at him, and the last time they had met, that had been brought up.

He... May have overreacted a little during that confrontation, and a lot of words had been exchanged, but suffice it to say that the both of them would rather sleep in a vase of rattle-snakes than trying to socialize with one another.

"You see, by law, I have the right to lay claim to things that either have no or little historical value, as well as any raw gold, gems, and so on. You would be amazed how little actually holds value for a museum these days, as there is only so many identical statues of the same era they can have around before it becomes trivial. Now, personal collectors on the other hoof... Those are interested in those things, and as you can see, they tend to be willing to pay well for them."

He left out the detail about how he also sometimes found magical things, or just stuff he personally didn't deem historical enough compared to profitable, which he would then sell illegally on the black market via an associate of his, but that was a more touchy subject he did not wish to pursue further for now.

"A nice profit, even with all the medical bills."

A small comment came from Grim, whilst he pulled away from the fridge and held forth what seemed like two ice creams in some rather fancy glasses. He took out a few fruits too, of which he took and cut two oranges, adding them to the ice before putting them back into the fridge again. In that time, Smokey had sent him a knowing look that basically looked nice, but was his little way of reminding him to not share too much. He was the only one outside of the shady sides of business life who knew of what really went on besides Smokey, and he did not wish to have the greying stallion blow it for him now.

"Sometimes it can be dangerous, yes, but that's just one of the things that makes adventuring such a thrilling experience.

But I ramble on and on. What questions do you have? And please, have a sip of wine. I can assure you that it is not toxic."

To prove so, he took a sip of his own glass, enjoying the fruity taste and the warmth that came after it had begun sliding down his gullet. It would not make you drunk unless you took a whole bottle at once, but it would please your taste buds.

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@genessee

"That's the spirit Lance! Don't you worry, you'll get the hang of everything in no time."

Berry grinned and patted Lance on the back. Good stallion this one, and seemed like he wasn't a spy currently. She'd have to remember to rummage through his trash for evidence one of these nights though, just to make sure. Soon as she figured out where he lived, but there would be a time and a potentially creepy stalking exercise for that later. For now, they should head back to the shop, though the sight of a Minotaur did make Berry slow down a little and pull her tongue at him when he wasn't looking. Though she didn't say why as she kept on walking again.

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@BloodDrops

It felt as if the world had been lifted from his shoulders as he saw her open the bag and it just turned out to be a few things she had stolen. Of course, stealing was also bad, but compared to killing somepony? It was barely a crime at all compared to that, by far the lesser of two evils. Though when she said that she could go back and finish him off, the relief faltered some.

"No! I-I mean... T-That's not necessary. Y-You got the t-things to even it o-out, right? I-I'ts good e-enough."

His heart were racing like a roadrunner as he tried to not think of how little this mare seemed to care for life (he was failing horribly) before he slowly took notice of the fishing rods, and the next thing in a line of worries popped up: He had to try and learn a flesh-eating, crazy mare how to fish, without really knowing how to do so himself...

This was not a carnival. Whatever he had of experience in the small pond with fishing up tickets for one of the stalls were not gonna do much else than telling him how not to catch his own face and toss it out with the hook, and some idea how to fix knots made in the lines. Harsh work back then, but outside of the circus act itself, the clowns had to do whatever was needed around to keep things rolling. They were kinda like handyponies, just with less focus on fixing toilets and attractions.

Still, what little he had learned then would have to suffice, along with whatever he had heard around, which mainly came down to *Get worms, hit middle of lake*. Not much, but it was this, or Blood would eat somepony, so it would have to do... Dear Celestia, he hoped it did.

"So... F-Fishing... Right. I can uhm, t-teach you. Yes. When uh... W-When should we go?"

He almost finished that with *master* but he managed to keep that from stuttering out of his muzzle.

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@Moonlit @Seamore Sandwich

The look that went over Fah'lina's eyes should tell how much she enjoyed what she was about to do, but it didn't last long as she turned around, spread her ear-wings, and swooped towards the stallion.

he didn't hear a thing as she got to him and opened wide, engulfing most of the top side of the stallion's head.

He was quite the screamer, to put it mildly. Flailing around with the sharp rows of teeth boring down into his neck and start of his muzzle.

She wasn't budging though. SHe kept on with teeth and claws until the pony finally managed to run confused into a tree, knocking himself out, as well as some of the Mimic's teeth.

She gave a squeaking yelp and pulled back, with four of said teeth still stuck on the lower part of the pony's neck.

It weren't of the front row, which at least didn't make her look stupid while they grew back, but it felt wrong behind it. She could feel the holes with her tongue, and it frankly made her angry. Enough to make her kick the unconscious pony a few times before flying off him and towards where Serenade either were, or would have taken off towards. This was really just a horrid day in her eyes. First her chew toy got herself hurt, and now she had lost some teeth. What was next? A fish would beat her up?

genessee · November 17, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Lance nodded and continued to walk alongside Berry. He did notice her reaction with a Minotaur, and was about to ask why, but figured he would get more conspiracies he would have to decipher and dropped the thought. He did have another question, though.

"Hey, did you ever happen to get a mare come into the store recently with wooden leg and a stutter?"

BloodDrops · November 18, 2017

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

t felt as if the world had been lifted from his shoulders as he saw her open the bag and it just turned out to be a few things she had stolen. Of course, stealing was also bad, but compared to killing somepony? It was barely a crime at all compared to that, by far the lesser of two evils. Though when she said that she could go back and finish him off, the relief faltered some.

"No! I-I mean... T-That's not necessary. Y-You got the t-things to even it o-out, right? I-I'ts good e-enough."

His heart were racing like a roadrunner as he tried to not think of how little this mare seemed to care for life (he was failing horribly) before he slowly took notice of the fishing rods, and the next thing in a line of worries popped up: He had to try and learn a flesh-eating, crazy mare how to fish, without really knowing how to do so himself...

This was not a carnival. Whatever he had of experience in the small pond with fishing up tickets for one of the stalls were not gonna do much else than telling him how not to catch his own face and toss it out with the hook, and some idea how to fix knots made in the lines. Harsh work back then, but outside of the circus act itself, the clowns had to do whatever was needed around to keep things rolling. They were kinda like handyponies, just with less focus on fixing toilets and attractions.

Still, what little he had learned then would have to suffice, along with whatever he had heard around, which mainly came down to *Get worms, hit middle of lake*. Not much, but it was this, or Blood would eat somepony, so it would have to do... Dear Celestia, he hoped it did.

"So... F-Fishing... Right. I can uhm, t-teach you. Yes. When uh... W-When should we go?"

He almost finished that with *master* but he managed to keep that from stuttering out of his muzzle.

Blood drops blinked at him and nodded, "ok then" I remarked. My belly then growled causing me to pick up several apples and demolish them in several bites. I then turned my attention back to Sloppy. "Let's go fishing now, since i've ran out of apples, the fish should fill me up for awhile" I add before frowning.

"We don't need a fishing licence or anything, because I've got no time for that. I kind of need to be fed within the next few hours or I might eat some pony" I add blinking at him.

"You got no other duties you got to attend to? I don't mind waiting but not too long" I finish blinking at him and picking up the sack that i could put the fish into if we caught any.

~Phoenix~ · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Phoenix sat in silence, with a slight smile on her face as she listened to Smokey tell her about his career. listening to him tell his stories has proved to be rather interesting thus far. she didn't know what it was about him, but she found herself being very attentive.

perhaps one day later she'd ask him to tell her more stories about his adventures. it's certainly alot more interesting than her life, living out in the woods. or at least, she thought so. after all of this, she was rather surprised that Smokey hadn't asked her anything. especially about what that wretched draconicuus had revealed about her. she was sure that she would have to talk eventually, but hearing Smokey talk first would definitely help her to open up.

to her surprise, he had just about answered all of her questions as to where he got the money for all of this. she had opened her muzzle to let one of her questions out, but found that the information she wanted was already present in his little speech. so she sat there stumped for a minute or two.

stalling to think of something to ask, she decided to have a go at the wine. did Smokey say something about it containing alcohol? she had never had anything like it before. with her magical grip, she levitated the glass down in front of her face. it looked light, and fragile. nothing like she had ever handled before. she very gently pressed the edge of the glass to her lower lip, noting how smooth it felt. she tipped it up, and took a small, cautious sip of the red liquid. although she could most certainly taste the fruitiness of the drink, it had another strange aspect to it she couldn't quite describe. she could only imagine it was the taste of alcohol. it didn't seem very strong, but it was doing no good at masking itself. she wasn't quite sure what to make of it.

as she took a sip, and then another just to try and confirm it, her eyes began to wander around the room. looking at the large kitchen, and the large table, and the large, well... everything. and then a question came to mind. she ever so gently let the glass back down onto the table, and she spoke up "why the big house, though? do you expect guests often?"

Blitz Boom · November 18, 2017

@genessee

Berry stopped up at the weird question, and looked at Lance with a slight frown as she scoured her mind.

"Wooden leg and a stutter? Uhhhm... No? I don't think so. We get all sorts, and stutters aren't unusual, but wooden legs? We don't have pirates in town far as I know..."

Still, there was something. A nagging thought that tried to bore its way to the surface.

"Wait... Not the store, but... Weren't there one at the food court yesterday? Voyage? No, that's not it. Void? Yeah, yeah, I think it was that. Was she really dark and had a glass eye too by chance?"

Berry pointed at her left eye to show which one she had meant. It had been pretty well made, but she were sure that it wasn't real with how the light reflected differently in it. It had been one of the only things she had really bit notice in, as she had been pretty tired from helping with rebuilding stuff and just wanted something to eat before she could sleep, so it had taken her a spell to figure out which one lance were talking about, but she got the feeling it might have been this one. Not really normal to have missing limbs here in Ponyville after all.

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@BloodDrops

"M-My duty is to protect Equestria. I'll d-do that better by h-helping you. R-Right?"

It hadn't sounded convincing when he had said the first part, but as he had thought a number of times by now, this was not the life for him. It was too stressful and dangerous. He had just wanted to help, and show his parents that he could make them proud by protecting their country, but this was too much. All of it was far, far too much. Why didn't he listen when they said that this meant nothing? That they'd be proud of him if he followed the family business in the circus? But nooo, he had thought better, and believed that something greater like his aunt had done were the way forward. How hard could it be to stand guard after all, right?

He almost felt like doing a mixture of a bitter laugh and a crying session, when he heard somepony. No, three someponies actually, and they were coming this way! Oh no, oh nononono, this wasn't good. This mare she would... H-He had to get them away.

"I'll m-make them leave, Just... G-Give me a second p-please."

Slappy stumbled over his hooves a little as he turned around and went towards the intruders. Hopefully he could get them to leave.

If Blood followed, she would see that said intruders were a dragon, around the height of a grown stallion and draped in armor plates, and two ponies. A pegasi without a left wing, and an earth pony with a wooden back leg and a glass eye. The ponies were both carrying saddlebags that seemed to be full of something, whilst the guard just carried his smile, and saluted the youngling as he approached. Seemed like the markings of the Night and Solar guards on his armor wasn't just a fashion accessory.

"I-I'm sorry, but the s-station is closed."

"Awh man, that's going to be a bother. How come it's shut down?"

"We uhm... T-That is, the forepony w-wanted it clear, so there wouldn't be a-accidents or looters when m-materials got m-moved."

"Well, good on her to be safe I suppose. Well, sorry to say this, but we're gonna have to walk a bit of way. I know a stop a little further down the trail we might be able to use."

The small pegasi grumbled, and didn't look allt hat happy, whilst the earth pony just gave a silent nod to things. As for the dragon, he were about to move, when a smell reached his nostrils. A rather peculiar and distinct smell that could only mean one thing.

"Phew, I'd advise you to look around the area a little. Smells like there's a dead rat nearby."

Pretty gross stuff up close, and frankly something he'd prefer to avoid, so he'd be on his way with the two ponies then. Provided that Blood didn't do anything stupid, they'd be gone again in a minute or two, leaving just her and her servant behind once more.

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@~Phoenix~

Smokey took a sip of his own wine once more, and savored the taste. It wasn't all sorts of wine you could just drink if you wanted to do it properly, and this was one of them, int he eyes of experts. But frankly, the whole sipping, swirling and spitting thing? Pretty gross, and really not his style.

"I do have guests at times, but really, I never get this place fully filled up, even if my parents are visiting.

See, I grew up in Dodge Junction, in this dingy little place. It was nice and all, but it was never high up the ladder or very spacious, and it could get even more cramped when extended family was around for a visit. It was good though, and my childhood wasn't ruined by it in any sort of way, but the lack of personal space gets toy eventually.

So when I eventually came into money myself, I wanted to build myself a place with some space. Dodge Junction wasn't ideal for that, so eventually I settled myself in Canterlot, and when looking around for some housing, I got some pretty mocking words from a few nobles, who thought that country colt should keep his unwashed hooves out in the dirt."

A small tick at his right eye came when he remembered that irritating first meeting. Not the best first impression he had gotten of the big town.

"I got the last laugh when I purchased a house formerly owned by an influential noble family that had wanted to get rid of it, and destroyed it, just to build my own home on the rubble. I know I know, spite in that context is pricey, but the look on their faces when it began to be broken down was worth every bit.

Anyway, when I had to build my own place then, I figured that I had a good deal of bits, and now a pretty big chunk to place a property on, so why not go all out? Get all the luxuries that I couldn't even about when I grew up, and well, one thing led to another..."

He wouldn't lie, he had not been the smartest with his money the first year or so. It had gone up in making everything bigger and better when he had the bits for it, and it just meant he had to go on more and more adventures to try and find money to finance the next and so on and so on. It had helped when he finally had gotten enough brain cells to get an accountant that had the guts to scold him about his penance for not having bits in reserve. There wouldn't always be things to find right away after all, and he appreciated being brought back to a sensible state. He still used the same accountant actually, though he didn't have to be scolded that often anymore.

"Still, much as it was a bit extravagant, I do like this place. Big enough for having whomever I care for come over, hold some parties if necessary at some point, and when eventually I do get a family of my own, they won't be cramped and living from payday to payday like what happened when I was a colt. There'll be plenty of space, love and finances too make sure they grow up well.

What about you Phoenix? Do you have any thoughts on how you wish to raise your foals, and what they should have of good things in their lives? Hypothetically."

A silent *for now* went through his mind after that, but he dismissed it. Surely just a moment of snark that he had managed to keep in, and nothing more.

~Phoenix~ · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Phoenix continued to sip on her glass of wine as she listened to Smokey. admittedly, she was starting to enjoy the taste of it. she could see why some ponies seemed to love the stuff so much. though quite honestly, in a thirst quenching moment, she'd likely rather have some water.

she analyzed Smokey's answer in her own mind. so he still had his family? that was more than what could be said about her. she had lost them at such a young age, that she didn't even know how she would act around them now, if they were still here. she was a bit jealous at the fortune of others, but she had long finished her mourning.

one thing that Caught Phoenix's attention, was that he never mentioned anything about strange mares. she had heard stories about Stallions who would invite a different mare to their homes each night, especially if they had money. of course, not all were the same, and she were certainly glad to see that Smokey wasn't like that. there was that odd feeling again. she wasn't entirely sure why, but the thought of another strange mare in here... it almost made her feel... jealous? surely that bump on her head had done a bit more damage than she thought.

or was it simply the fact that living as a mare was beginning to grow on her? after all, she had been one now for a little over half her life. was the old version of Phoenix still in there somewhere? or was her old identity out the window at this point? clearly, there was a battle raging in her mind that has yet to be decided. and it would seem as though some more ammunition had been dumped onto that battlefield, in the form of a question, one that Phoenix recognized was in Smokey's voice.

she snapped out of her daze, and nearly choked a bit on her wine, as Smokey had asked the question. "how do i wish to raise my foals?" she repeated to herself in her mind. the mere idea sent shivers down her spine, and it wasn't in a good way. having foals of her own was a subject that her mind never before dared to go near. after all, she never expected herself to even think about romance, but here she was. as much as she wanted to pretend that she had no feelings towards smokey, she couldn't help but take into consideration the fact that she had been thinking about him a bit too much. but the idea of having foals? that was a bit too much. she never would, at least not while this curse plagued her. that would mean she would have to... with a stallion...?

through all this mental turmoil, she realized she still had yet to provide Smokey with an answer. she placed the glass down, and coughed a bit into her hoof to try and clear her trachea of any wine droplets that may have found themselves down there. with an intense blush shining through her orange fur. "w-well, i d-don't really know..." geez, was that the best she could muster?

Edited November 18, 2017 by ~Phoenix~

EQ_Theta · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Such is what a creature given what it craves will do when it sees it: go wild! Lin was amused at the display seeing the Refraction just going at it and it didn't appear to lose steam as it just kept going and going. While she still kept at holding back the constantly reshaping barrier enveloping her claws, it got easier. When it would act up, she'd change her positioning a little bit at a time while observing the changes to make sure she could keep herself ahead with one or two steps.

As soon as the Refraction looked to get greedy with the gems, the sputtering of flames caught Lin by surprise. She nearly stepped back but remembered she was still keeping the barriers back from collapsing onto the drake. If she had, who knows what could have happened but thankfully, she kept her composure. The flames and the glittering white embers gave her quite a shock, not to mention the strange hallucinations that came with it.

What can only be described as a barrage of colors bombarded her eyes accompanied by what can be described as white noise. A shrill one but it blocked out all sound from her ears and she could barely concentrate what's before her until she shifted her claws again. It held this time but it meant widening the gap for the Refraction. It was a minor setback but it could've been worse.

An orb dropped from the cluster. Knowing that the Refraction would keep at the diamond for a while and unable to hold the barrier any further from the setback, Lin took a deep breath and with one quick swipe, hooked her claw under the drake and pulled it away.

"Sorry I had to do that," Lin picked up the orb with her other free claw and showed it to the Refraction. "This might be what we're looking for. Is Omen's scent on it?"

genessee · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

"Yeah, that's her. Do you think she'd be in the same place you saw her about this time of day?"

It was unlikely Berry knew, but Lance wanted to know. Plus it made decent conversation on the way back so they didn't just have to walk in silence, or him having to listen to another conspiracy.

Blitz Boom · November 18, 2017

@~Phoenix~

Smokey couldn't help but smile a little more as he saw how she almost choked on things as he asked her the question.

He had expected there to be some kind of issue with getting an answer to something like this, considering how well guarded Phoenix seemed to be about everything about herself and her previous life, though the stammering, adorable little show he now got wasn't expected. it was rather adorable if he had to be honest, and it was good to see that she hadn't withdrawn herself from him after he asked this, or run away.

After the draconequui's session of letting some things be shared about both Phoenix and himself that they would not like others to know, it had seemed like he had to often walk on glass around her. Carefully, methodical, and not too forceful, or things would just end poorly. The episode int he train where he had found her using him as a pillow was a good example of this, as he had been forced away as soon as she had found out what it was she were doing, and hadn't spoken a word about it afterwards. Granted, she passed out pretty soon after, but still, it seemed like the sort of things most would have affect them more then a rejection and ignoring session.

Why he had thought that it would fare better to prod at this topic then were hard to say. Perhaps he thought that with a little wine, a bath, and some time away from all the noise and other ponies that seemed to get to her, she would be more relaxed, and willing to say a few things. Sure, Grim was still here, but he wouldn't tell a soul about it, and he had made sure to make as little sound as possible after the two had started to talk together. He even made sure to chop carefully, which he normally did with some rather quick and noisy cuts.

But to return on track, it seemed that perhaps he still had to be careful with his questions. Foals had been too personal it appeared, but perhaps he could refocus her instead. See if he could use the failure as a stepping stone, if you would.

"No worries. Some ponies need to turn such a question in their head for days, months or even years before they have an answer. You'll have the answer some day too, Phoenix. And when you do, I will look forward to hearing it.

I found it was good to look back at how I had it as a foal to start things, and then begin from that first stepping stone. Like... If you think back, what is the first thing you remember that you wish were different? Something you think you could do differently, if you had the final say?"

Perhaps she'd shut down again, or just not answer at all, but this were the closest way he could think of asking to her past without being incredibly pushy and forceful about it. if this didn't work either, he'd have to ask into the here and now, rather than the then or when, it seemed.

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

@EQ_Theta @Shineling

The Refraction wriggled and hissed, wanting to get back and take the last in of the gem cluster, but apparently, it had to be content with 3/4'th of it devoured. Lin had been the carer for it for days now, and would know better than Sen how to keep hold of it to prevent it from escaping, even though it had grown around double the size since they had gotten to the mines in the first place.

Things changed when the orb got put near it, and it was asked to sniff it.

At first, it was only a small one, to find out if this were food too, but when it figured out it wasn't, it just kept wriggling. Then a few seconds passed and it stopped and returned to the gem, sniffing it more closely. There was something about it that had caught its interest. It poked at the bauble with its nose, clawed the sides weakly, and as best as it could in its current position, it tried to wrap around it and turn it around, looking for something.

Eventually it settled on the rift that was all the way down through it and began clawing at it like a cat who wanted something on the other side of the door.

Small rawrs, chirping noises, and desperate sounding, incoherent noises came from it as it tried and tried to get through, but to no avail. Eventually, out of other ideas, it took a breath and blew a thin line of glittery flames at the orb.

The results were... Not there. Nothing happened, except making the runes glow a little less faint.

Desperate, and not knowing what else to do, the small creature looked up at Lin with the tiny, blue eyes gazing at her own.

"O.. Ohm... Ohme..."

Much as it tried, it couldn't say the word, and went back to trying chirping sounds after that. Words were hard or a tiny one like this, but it seemed like the bigger it got, the larger the brain went as well. Perhaps one day, when it was substantially larger than this, it would be able to speak normally, rather than in broken toddler form, whilst crying and hugging the orb.

Lin had been right. Whatever they had come for, it was in this thing. Though... What part of Omen was this, and why was it broken?

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

@genessee

"No idea, but we can find out. Come on, let's head for the food court! If Straw asks, say we were washing the stench of the blacksmith's lunch out of our lungs or something. He doesn't like the smell either."

Berry would switch direction on the spot, and head right for the food court, which she knew were still open today. With the influx of the Courier Guild, they had to be ready early on to have a shot at being able to feed everypony that worked hard to get their town back together again, though she had no idea who were serving today. Perhaps Void and Pinkie like last night, though that really depended on how long they had been at it. Might be a different shift now, if they had pulled an all-nighter. Only one way to find out.

Edited November 18, 2017 by Blitz Boom

~Phoenix~ · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Phoenix lay her face down against the table, folding her hooves in front of her. perhaps if she didn't have to look him in the eye, which only increased the awkward factor, she'd be able to mumble out some answers of her own. she knew that Smokey would want to know more about her at some point, and after he was so kind and accomodating to her, she owed him that much. it would only be fair.

her curse was no secret at that point, and it was all due to the vile creature in the forest. it was also very clear that Smokey was hinting at that when he had asked her that last question. what would she do differently? well, the obvious answer to that would have been to never have gone exploring that old witches shack. but it were a tad more complicated than that at this point.

phoenix didn't like the question, though. it seemed like something that wasn't too in depth, and meant purely as a blunt force to try and break down her barriers. and Phoenix would be damned, because it was working. she had already decided in her mind that running away and hiding wasn't going to be an option anymore. and even if she did, what would happen? she'd probably make it a few hoofsteps outside before succumbing to her anxiety.

she lifted her head up with a defeated sigh, as if she had lost some sort of psychological battle "i get it... you're referring to what that creature said" she responded. her voice was quiet. she went on, "and i suppose i should clear up the confusion... i had been living out in the wilderness nearly all my life, even when i was a young colt... that's right, i didn't grow up a filly... and when i was about ten, i came across a small cabin. it looked old and abandoned, so i figured i'd check to see if i could use it as shelter, or at the very least find some supplies. however, i wasn't the first to have found it. there was a sorceress, a witch. and she cursed me for trespassing. that's how i ended up like this" and with that, she used her hooves to gesture down at her body. it was rather feminine, with a light frame, only about two thirds the size of Smokey, complete with Soft Marish curves. to match, she had a soft feminine face. "but that was nearly twelve years ago. I've been living like this for longer. I've come to terms with my situation years ago, but only under a few conditions."

a couple of the simpler conditions have already been broken, and all of the others were currently being tested. she hoped that Smokey would be able to see her dilemma, without her needing to state it explicitly. and she hoped that speaking up and clearing the air about it would satisfy Smokey, and would lead him to understand that she didn't like being bothered about the subject.

BloodDrops · November 18, 2017

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"M-My duty is to protect Equestria. I'll d-do that better by h-helping you. R-Right?"

It hadn't sounded convincing when he had said the first part, but as he had thought a number of times by now, this was not the life for him. It was too stressful and dangerous. He had just wanted to help, and show his parents that he could make them proud by protecting their country, but this was too much. All of it was far, far too much. Why didn't he listen when they said that this meant nothing? That they'd be proud of him if he followed the family business in the circus? But nooo, he had thought better, and believed that something greater like his aunt had done were the way forward. How hard could it be to stand guard after all, right?

He almost felt like doing a mixture of a bitter laugh and a crying session, when he heard somepony. No, three someponies actually, and they were coming this way! Oh no, oh nononono, this wasn't good. This mare she would... H-He had to get them away.

"I'll m-make them leave, Just... G-Give me a second p-please."

Slappy stumbled over his hooves a little as he turned around and went towards the intruders. Hopefully he could get them to leave.

If Blood followed, she would see that said intruders were a dragon, around the height of a grown stallion and draped in armor plates, and two ponies. A pegasi without a left wing, and an earth pony with a wooden back leg and a glass eye. The ponies were both carrying saddlebags that seemed to be full of something, whilst the guard just carried his smile, and saluted the youngling as he approached. Seemed like the markings of the Night and Solar guards on his armor wasn't just a fashion accessory.

"I-I'm sorry, but the s-station is closed."

"Awh man, that's going to be a bother. How come it's shut down?"

"We uhm... T-That is, the forepony w-wanted it clear, so there wouldn't be a-accidents or looters when m-materials got m-moved."

"Well, good on her to be safe I suppose. Well, sorry to say this, but we're gonna have to walk a bit of way. I know a stop a little further down the trail we might be able to use."

The small pegasi grumbled, and didn't look allt hat happy, whilst the earth pony just gave a silent nod to things. As for the dragon, he were about to move, when a smell reached his nostrils. A rather peculiar and distinct smell that could only mean one thing.

"Phew, I'd advise you to look around the area a little. Smells like there's a dead rat nearby."

Pretty gross stuff up close, and frankly something he'd prefer to avoid, so he'd be on his way with the two ponies then. Provided that Blood didn't do anything stupid, they'd be gone again in a minute or two, leaving just her and her servant behind once more.

Blood didn't do waiting, she had already attached the strings to both of the rods and then hocked two worms as bait on the ends of the hooks. After doing this she picked up her bag and slung it over her shoulder, then walked up to Sloppy "we going fishing or what?" I ask grumpily after the ponies had moved down the alternate route. She frowned "Why you send them down that way?" she asked blinking at him "You know the drains are leaking there and there's tons of trash covering the ground?" I add frowning at him. There was a loud crash as something hard landed on the ground, "not a very safe way you just sent them, mr protector" I remarked before holding my fishing pole in my mouth.

"Anyway time to fish, even if you did just send three ponies down that street with the giant sinkhole. Two should be ok to fly out with there wings and all" I add with a smirk. "you really need to pay attention to the hazards in this town, after all its not very well built yet. Come on before I get hungry, then you will have more concerned then a few ponies being stuck for a few hours" I remark.

There could be a faint sound of 'help' coming from the distance, though it easily was ignorable.

genessee · November 18, 2017

@Blitz Boom

"Wait, like, righ--"

Before Lance could finish, Berry was already heading towards the food court. Well, I could either go check in with Straw and possibly get Berry (or me) in hot water, or go with her and hope the smell excuse works. Plus, I'll look like a wimp if I decide to go back to the restaurant. He frowned. I don't really have a choice, do I?

"Hey, wait up!"

With that, he broke into a faster trot to keep up with conspiritual mare.

Edited November 18, 2017 by genessee

Victoria Sponge · November 19, 2017

@Blitz Boom

"A sibling thing? I would consider that a possibility, if Battenberg and Victoria were actually anything alike. Besides their love for baking and for each other, though only one will admit to that, they're really not that similar."

"Exactly, everything goes exactly as Battenberg wants but nothing goes as I want, that's why we're different. I spend hours making myself pristine and beautiful, she practically wakes up like that... Not that she's better looking at me... She can't be, that's why she's still as single as I am."

Red laughed at Victoria's attempt to cover the accidental compliment directed at her sister, she couldn't admit that other ponies were beautiful too.

"Oh come now Vicky, you know that's not true, you and your sister are practically identical twins in all but colour, you're both beautiful and you both put a lot of work into keeping yourselves that way, I know for a fact Battenberg doesn't wake up looking how she does, it's just you're in bed so long you never see her do any of that."

"I suppose you may be right, still doesn't mean she has it harder than I do."

Royal looked over at Benny who's remark still hadn't received any kind of proper answer.

"I don't want to go too much into Battenberg's love life because that's a thing that's very personal to her, but I will tell you that she is more successful than her sister, purely because she's a lot easier to get along with. Battenberg's main problem isn't getting people interested in her but keeping their interest. As she's a very reserved and quiet pony who doesn't easily open up to other ponies unless she sees something really good in them, like with you two, she finds stallions get somewhat... bored with her. They don't understand that she doesn't like to talk and doesn't have to talk and so they miss out on opening her shell and seeing the pearl inside. I'm sure she'll be fine though, one day she'll meet somepony who understands that she won't always be talkative but will always be very affectionate and sweet. I can understand how it is for her because I was the same, but then I met Red who does understand those kinds of things and one day Battenberg will meet her Red Velvet."

Royal had a lot to say on the subject, it was clear how much he related to Battenberg and how much he loved every member of his family and wished only the best for them.

EQ_Theta · November 19, 2017

@Blitz Boom @Shineling

The way the the Refraction tried to speak... it caught Lin way off guard this time. It was definitely bizarre and if it is caused by the drake consuming more gems, what would becomes of the creature? More talkative? That would be one way to get the home a lot livelier but that is a matter for another time. Right now, the orb is causing some distress though that could still be the drake missing Omen. But it said her name, or at least tried to. Lin didn't have to make a second guess about how she deduced that. She knelt close to the Refraction and gave it a reassuring stroke on the back of its head.

"It's okay. You did great. Let's go outside and brings this to Omen. Maybe it might get her to wake up."

Without further hesitation, she placed the orb in her satchel and the drake on her back before heading out. It was mostly uneventful notwithstanding the happenings of Clayton seeing his friends again or Discord and Sen still tending to the unresponsive Omen. She quickly ran to them and opened her satchel to show the two what she and the Refraction found inside the mines. Judging by the look on her face, she was holding back the urge to let loose with excitement knowing she might be disappointed with the result.

"Discord, Sen, I think this might be what Omen's missing. Wouldn't have found it had our little drake friend stayed behind."

"So... what now?" Sen inquisitively tilted his head while trying to make out the next thing they should do. Just having an orb there didn't mean their problems were fixed. "Do we find some place to put it or?"

"Might be that the orb could be drawn to Omen like a piece that would try to fix itself? Worth a shot." Lin placed the orb next to Omen to see if her hypothesis would work. Only time would tell if they needed another plan.

The Resident Brony · November 19, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Invictus was fascinated by the creatures, and almost flew down to them

"Pathetic, hmm? I suppose they are, for believing lies. But, what exactly IS the Bishop? Pardon my curiosity..."

Moonlit · November 19, 2017

@Blitz Boom @Seamore Sandwich Serenade quietly swam on, looking back at Fah'lina and giving her a smile. Once this was all done with, she'd take Fah'lina with her to see her mother, the mimic deserved a good pampering. She was still confused at to the state of the town, had it been attacked again. If she remembered correctly, the river would take her near to the hospital but not all the way.

Widdershins · November 20, 2017

@Foxy Socks, @Blitz Boom & @~Phoenix~ :

Trotting down the corridor high-hoofed with Rainbow Dash in tow, Rarity strides into the sitting room.

"Sorry about all this! It does appear to be quite... the, ah, Day today. I do hope you are all alright? Has everything been alright in... here?..."

From where she stood, just a pace in front of the open door, Rarity stops to take notice of the room. Decidedly in better shape then her workroom, yes, but cleaning wasn't her highest priority now so much as checking that everypony was quite alright. In the momentary heavy pause, Opalescence decides to slink back to her owner, curling around a front hoof to glare back, mostly at Briar, with the sort of "rubbing-it-in-now-that-you're-in-trouble" smug grin that Opalescence had gotten so used to doing.

Halting while the plantpony gave what explanations and condolences he could, the white mare would give a knowing and comforting nod of her head.

"Oh Dear, I see, so long as everypony is unharmed. Never any of you worry though. Much as I try to train her, my little Snookums here does have a bit of a fast claw on her!"

Reaching down to ruffle the sneering cat with a hoof, Rarity continues on.

"One does get awfully proficient at cleaning with a kitten & filly around to clean up after! I do have me a stain removal spell & another for reassembling most of broken China. No lasting damage, I assure you! This is at least the third time that teapot has been put back together after all!

*chuckle*

Oh! And where are my manners! This dashing mare behind me is Rainbow Dash, a frequent associate of mine on many a venture; most I'm sure she would love to take any chance at regaling you about if you so wish!

Hmm... Oh yes! Did however, want to deliver a bit of bad news, Miss Socks. A few... uh...well, a... series, really, of... "Unfortunate Advents" have arisen that have made a spot of bother in finishing your request. Would it be alright If I got back to you on a later day with the finished project? Perhaps have a courier deliver it back to where you currently reside?"

############################################################################

To Bloom Blick again!

Slowing down to answer and allowing Happy Hour to step up enough in pace to lead the way now, Ambie's tail swishes in thought between his back legs.

"Well... I guess I did the basics. Like you said. I told them that I was alright and they needn't worry & that Ponyville is fine.

The grey mare I gave it to said she'd do her bestest, but the mail does... should take a while, you know. Besides, I'm sure my Mother wouldn't do anything too rash."

##########################################################################################

@Dji and Blitz Boom

Rather smoldering now and impatient, Kaltrop slips further out from under Dawn. Tail still tucked under her and with her pinned between the cage of his wings and his front claws now on her chest with his face and warm breath level with hers; the young, lithe drake fumes once again, his muzzle flushed with the strain of their scuffle.

"You know that's not true. Don't be stupid. Dragons might bully, fight or compete against each other... but they don't ruin or even end lives. You ever stop to think why ponies don't bother having any books on us? Why it's common practice to steal eggs for their schools' rites? How many times there's been border disputes over some dragon living too close to the constantly popping-up ponytowns and the dragon inevitably gets killed by some "hero?"

You don't li-listen! You never have! All you ever thought about was how things helped you! Y-...Y-You... Wh-why don't you shut... y-you s-stupid..."

Legs buckling from quivering emotion, Kaltrop finally falls. His muzzle meets Dawn's and their lips & mouths meet in a deep, passionate kiss.

A minute, possible two or three pass without most present enough to tell accurately. Kaltrop slumps to one side of the pegasus mare; his longer, warm body mostly enwrapping her sides with his long head draped across her chest, somehow accidentally right over the scar over her wing. Very faintly, inaudible to any save for the sounds vibrating in his throat where it drapes across Dawn where she could feel his words coming out; a small whimper escapes the drake's tightened throat.

"P-please... don't leave me again..."

Edited November 20, 2017 by Widdershins

Foxy Socks · November 20, 2017

@Blitz Boom @Widdershins @~Phoenix~

Foxy gave a slight smile. "Don't worry, I'm sure you're very busy. Finish it whenever you can, I'm not in a hurry right now." Foxy didn't think to ask of the incident, but she didn't think it was much. Foxy was more focused on the new pony next to Rarity, whom Foxy recognized before she introduced her. "Oh hey..." Foxy said to Rainbow, feeling slightly intimidated to be near a well known pony like her. Foxy had not really seen her before, though she definitely had heard about her.

"Sorry, um, I-I didn't expect to meet you..." Foxy continued to Rainbow Dash. "I have heard of you before, it's-it's nice to meet you..." Foxy generally was shy, and being around somepony she wasn't familiar with made it worse. She was far better than Brittle, as it was more of a confidence issue rather than a trust issue for Foxy.

Sekel · November 20, 2017

@Blitz Boom & @Widdershins

DAWN & AURORA

Dawn was speechless by the time Kaltrops had started stuttering. While she could focus on the insults, she was much more concerned (well now anyway) about the dragon’s feelings potentially being real. Dawn thought they were heartless, cold, and without emotion. Before thinking on it further, Dawn couldn’t even let out a sound when she felt their muzzles meet for their few seconds. Her eyes had widened, her muzzle was stunned into a Frozen position, but she was knocked out of it long enough to respond to Kaltrops with her own whisper. “I .... I .... won’t.”

Aurora, meanwhile, was looking away when the impromptu kiss happened. She couldn’t take fighting, and it had gotten too much to even see them yell at each other. “What’s happening?” Aurora asked the other two, facing away from the group and staring at a couple of houses, when she couldn’t hear anymore yelling and screaming.

@Blitz Boom & @Seamore Sandwich

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

”Sorry, impromptu praise usually helps a pony’s confidence and keeps driving them forward,” Twilight apologised, ears flat against her head. Regardless, she did have a few questions about the location of the bunker they were heading to. “The bunker is near the Everfree!? Do you know how many monsters there are in there!? Actually, I have better questions. Is the bunker safe!? Can it be protected from monster attacks!? Is it waterproof!? Fireproof!? Why have it near the Everfree at all!? Why not closer to the town!?”

Blitz Boom · November 20, 2017

@~Phoenix~

He listened to every word that was said, whilst sipping more of the wine down. Whilst he seemed rather calm and interested in it, his mind was on fire with questions about what this meant. Was Phoenix focusing on the side of her that were once a stallion? Who had the power to simply curse somepony with a lasting spell such as this, which had been unable to be removed too by the sound of it? Or had she even attempted? There was so much he wasn't sure about, and thus far, so little answers, but at least he had more than he had thought. Even if it was not as simple as what he had hoped.

"It is quite the story, but it does explain some things I did not think would be a good idea to bring up.

Phoenix, I'm... Sorry to hear what have befallen you. I cannot imagine what it would be like to find yourself changed like this, for a small misstep such as that. The result are stunning, but beauty must not seem like a fair trade for having to rethink your life, and which ways you approach other ponies within it."

The compliment were not meant to be slung out the way it were, but in the heat of the moment, it had felt like the proper thing to express, along with his heartfelt sympathy for what Phoenix had gone through. Certainly, the draconequus had told some earlier, but the devil had truly been in the details here, and it changed his perspective on what had happened between Phoenix and himself. Not as in him having any regrets, but rather how it now made sense for her to not find comfort in her more feminine expressions of affection, such as cuddling.

"...Grim..."

The aging stallion had started to cut through a selection of fruits to make for a tasting platter, and smiled back at his boss as he were addressed.

"Nothing's gonna leave this room."

This was between the two youngsters, and though he heard it, that didn't mean he had to get involved, though he did want to smack Smokey upside his head for not going over and giving Phoenix a hug. Poor thing must be feeling pretty vulnerable right now, and could likely use more than words to know that she had somepony there for her.

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

@BloodDrops

"I uhm... S-Sorry..."

Slappy felt for a brief moment like he had to correct this mare, but what wouldn't happen if he got on her bad side? It was better for him to not correct her in how the garbage on the station were materials, and that the trio had gone in the opposite direction of where that hat been. Somepony could be heard giving out a low swear as something among said materials plopped down and gave him a bump on the head and the ground a dent as well, but it was outside of the restricted area, and from the sound of it, the pony had thankfully not died. He might have been trapped though, as Slappy could swear he heard some low prayers for help between the swearing, but there were other ponies to pick up things. Surely they could help without him having to lave his owner.

As for the drainy pipes... He had no idea about that. He had never been in Ponyville prior to this assignment, and didn't know how things were set up, though it sounded like something he should get slipped to the forepony at some point so she could send somepony to look at it. Just best to wait a little perhaps, when Blood would be resting and he would have the chance to dot his without having a stalker.

The sinkhole sounded unlikely somehow. With all the things being transported into town, and the amount of workers walking everywhere,w ouldn't it have collapsed under somepony already? Urgh... Where was a Geologist when you needed them?

"B-But yes, we s-should go. F-Find a good place."

Those were thoughts for another time. Right now, he picked up his prepared fishing rod, and began leading the way to a stream he had seen earlier. Hopefully that would work, and they didn't have to look through the forest for a lake.

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

@genessee

The food parlor wasn't entirely ready after all when they had shown up., It certainly was getting prepped, and there was a few things out to have a pop at, but any good dishes and such weren't out yet. Mainly a salat bar and some left overs from yesterday, whilst the kitchen staff were seemingly hard at work.

There wasn't any sign of Void here though. But they could always just ask the one who seemed to wandering between the tables and helping to set up things before the *grand opening* at around 12. Looked like a regular, well-mannered background mare of indistinguishable features who jumped a little as Berry whistled to get her attention.

"Are you trying to scare my out of my good hide?"

"Not really. Look, we're trying to find Void, is she here?"

"No. I saw her a little while ago though. She came around to tell the Cakes that she couldn't help today. Something about having to leave for Canterlot I think?"

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

@Battenberg

"Sounds complicated, though I guess you're right. She just needs to wait and find somepony who got the hots for buns and batter, and then everything will work out for her. Hay, it will for the both of them, just wait and see. They're pretty different, but there's some good ponies under the layers.

But I think I've dug a little too deep into this subject. Have to be kinda awkward to hear a total stranger rummage around the love-life of your family. I'm sorry about that by the way. Sometimes my mouth and my brain doesn't follow troop."

"Everypony needs to work a little on their looks during the day Victoria. It just varies how much effort somepony puts into it."

Pop wanted to divert the conversation a little away from things, and this was the only straw she had to grasp on in the moment, though one more went towards the surface as she desperately tried to find some kind of way to move away from talking to strangers about special someponies, foals, etc. She knew she had been a big part in that, but still, she didn't know how to respond with it anymore in a way that wasn't a little too searching, to put it mildly.

"Can I ask by the way, how is the cakes coming along? Did it go well?"

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

@EQ_Theta @Shineling

The runes on the cracked orb would glow stronger the closer it got to Omen, culminating in it being basically on constantly as it got nearer, but nothing happened beyond that. It just laid t here near her, seemingly reacting, but without much else happening. Perhaps they needed to put it closer or break it open, but at lest for now, the murky bauble were not giving up its secrets.

""T-Thank the stars above, you're back. Please, I need your pet back to help with the others. I've managed to calm the others down a little, but the rest are still trapped."

It had not been an easy thing to do, and quite honestly, there were a lot that he had not told them, but at least the two that were freed so far didn't sob so much anymore. However, they were huddled together, away from the rest, and looking between Clayton and the other creatures. Especially Discord, whom they obviously didn't trust, and elieved to have some part in what they had so far gotten into their head were a extended slumber. Clayton had yet found a way he could tell them how long they had been away, even though the two had been questioning him about it. It would be too much for them right now he thought, though it had to get through eventually. He couldn't keep lying or distracting from the truth, and he could see in their eyes that they knew that it had been more than a few weeks, or even months. They weren't stupid.

As for the Refraction, it kept an eye on Omen and the bauble, after reluctantly letting go of it before when Lin had separated it from the object. She were far larger and stronger than the draconic creature were, so much as it might try to stick, it wouldn't be too hard to pry it off the bauble. It currently kept an eye on Omen and what was likely some part of her, but it could be refocused on the crystallized miners again, if Lin directed it towards them.

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

@The Resident Brony

Vivid made a grimace as the Alicorn moved closer tot he beings below, who tried to reach out for him. She were about a half second from grabbing hold of him with magic and them slam him back on the bridge, but he went away from them on his own before it got that far.

"Don't go near them, unless you want to end like them. I am not going down there to save you.

With that settled... You asked about the Bishop of Sin? She is a demon, who have risen to the position or arch demon after her merger with the core of the Veil. It moves by her will alone, and beware whoever who attempts to take it from her. Event he other arch demons leave her alone, afraid of what she might do, and unwilling to hear her sermons.

She is the founder of the Church of the First Word. It might not sound like much, but it is far worse than you'd think. I have only been to one sermon, and my soul darkened just from hearing her speak the words engraved in the first bible. A tome of flesh, bone and blood, stitched together with the bodies of angels and demons alike, encasing scribbles of madness and horrors. Even for Hell, it is extreme.

As far as I know, she is convinced that the written word is the only truth, and not just the deranged words of some unknown entity after what I've been told was a clash between above and below, and far as I know, her church is gathering more followers, making her more influential and powerful by the day.

She is a deranged, incredibly sadistic, and intelligent being, who is aiming to show all of our kind, and the darkest of souls, the true way. I don't know if her aspirations will land her the throne one day, or be the cause of her demise, but I can say this for certain: If you meet her, you will not escape her as you are now. Either you're lucky and you die, or she will make you into a disciple. Pray to whatever higher being you believe in that you'll never meet her and find out which one she'll push on you."

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

@Moonlit @Seamore Sandwich

It wouldn't be too long until Fah'lina would be up with them again, and would land on Ziggy. The zegasus' leg seemed to be improving ever so slowly, with the bone mending a small bit, but she still required actual, medical attention, with the speed that this went at. Unless the spectre did something, that would remain a fact.

It seemed like the rest of the way towards town were not filled with ponies, however, as they got further up the river, towards the hospital, they'd find themselves faced with a pair of ponies, of which at least one of them would likely meet Serenade with fear. She had been faced with three of her kind before after all, and things had not exactly gone well.

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

@Dji @Seamore Sandwich

"Where I'm from, you get praise when you've earned it. I haven't yet.

The bunker I mention is one of 14, if you want to know why I want one of them outside of town, answer me this: If somepony is out of town when an attack happens, do you want them to run through the forest to get to the next town, or have a safe spot away from what you consider predators around here?"

Last did not think much of the Timberwolves she had run into, and frankly, she had expected more from the Manticore when it had faced off against her, so she didn't think much of the creatures she had seen in there. However, she were a trained fighter, whilst these were civilians who'd be unlikely to have the sort of training needed to know how to face off against something larger than them, with pointy parts, such as claws, fangs, or spikes.

It guided her reasoning behind wanting a few bunkers on the outskirts of town and inside the beginning of the forest. It was a safety measure for desperate situations, which were far better to have and not need, than to need and not. At least as far as she were concerned.

"It will have to be made from bricks that doesn't set on fire easily, and doesn't wear out within a year or two, but a skilled builder would not have an issue with that. Water can be redirected too for each of them, so nothing gets flooded. We had a few methods back home we could use, that should do the trick here too."

She shared a little about what she meant, which essentially involved some pipes and a drain, whilst they got towards the site she had thought off, though as they approached, something was weird. Not with the spot itself as they hadn't gotten there completely yet, but rather, the river. It seemed like something, was swimming in it? They were still some way out, so she couldn't be entirely sure, but it did seem like that at least. They should get closer and investigate, just in case.

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

@Widdershins @Foxy Socks @~Phoenix~

There it was again. The feeling that the cat was glaring at him, and not in a kind way.

It was interesting how for some reason, you could tell that somepony was starring at you if your senses were good enough, but that was a thought for another time. For now, the focus should not be on the trivial matter retaining the nature of intuition, but rather address the matter at hoof, which for now thankfully was not an agitated Rarity. It seemed that this were not the first of the cats antics, and especially not if the mare had a spell to be able to fix it ready. It were clearly something she used often. Perhaps even more than she had let on.

"It never ceased to amaze me how many things unicorns seem prepared for, but then again, I do not know enough magic to really tell. What I can do is little more than a weaker telekinesis, though perhaps it is just my kind in general that cannot follow troop. The Lotus's never seemed able to do things such as that. Though to be somewhat fair, they did not drink tea either... A question for the ages, but not one I can answer.

Ah, but I ramble. May I ask into the nature of what happened up there? As we told, we did arrive with a companion that... Well, I believe you are familiar with the antics that Draconequui can indulge in for their entertainment, from what I have heard from the others around town.

I realize that perhaps we should have warned you in advance, but it seemed like the kind of thing that would have turned things rather awkward, and so far she haven't seemed to do anything harmful, so it seemed the best to keep silent. Please, forgive me for not warning you. I hope that whatever happened - if it were related to her - did not cause too big of a mess? I will assist in cleaning up if it is."

He neglected to mention the Coast Guard from last night that Anomaly had most definitely hurt in the past, since it appeared as if said guard had left town, and that he did not need to guess how things would go if he associated himself with a being that tore ponies apart, and put them back together again poorly. He couldn't blame them for their assumptions and actions if it were honestly.

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

@Widdershins

"Never underestimate parents. They can get pretty rash in it if they get the inkling that something's going on with their offspring, even if they don't usually speak that much together."

His mother... Well, Happy did have a fine relationship with his parents, but it were far between he had seen them. Especially the last five years before he got taken here, were they could perhaps all get together for Christmas, exchange some gifts and hollow words about how the others were, etc. before the whole thing would be over and they'd get to their own businesses.

They liked eachother well, and in emergencies, they'd get there for one another, but they had just drifted apart over how life went. Much as he did well for himself, a wine salesman wasn't something they had in mind for their son, and he were stubborn, so... Yeah.

But that was his folks, wherever they may be now. Ambie's were likely different, especially considering one of them were a changeling. Likely the father, but they'd see soon enough.

"Anyway, all in due time. We're almost in the forest and need to start keeping our eyes on stilts. Just... Ignore the town, alright? It's been all kinds of crazy all morning."

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

@Dji @Widdershins

Pop couldn't answer, as she was currently starring slack-jawed and in disbelief at what had just happened. Dragons and ponies kissing wasn't something that got her out of it like this since, well, Duh, but these two? They had been trying to tear one another apart a second ago, and now Kaltrops had kissed Dawn, and apparently didn't want to let her go, whilst Dawn had either gone into shock or... No, basically just shock. She didn't know what else it could be, and she had no idea what to do about this.

"Nothing huge, just them kissing off the start of one of them love/hate relationships where there's a lot of fighting and passion."

Spicy on the other hoof, had nothing holding her back after she had rolled her eyes at the spectacle and waved Marley away from the two bundles of *joy*. Whatever was going to happen next was best to not stand too close to, since it was either gonna end in more sloppy makeouts, or a fight of the kind that would get the onlooking guards to act, rather than stand and looking at eachother unsure at what to do.

"I'd stay out of reach if I were you. Soon as that mare is outta her shock, I'm betting it's gonna get messy."

Seriously, if there was a bookie nearby, she would've gone for it. What was the chance that this would just end peacefully after all? 1 in 200.000? Usually she were good with odds, but this sort were off the grid and out of her league.

If they did end up just getting through this well off, she were going to find someplace and put a bet on Marley hooking up with the changeling next. Two weird couples in a row would make her bet on going full on out the window, regardless of how she knew Marley felt about changelings. Might as well figure it as one of those weird days where everything could happen, right?

Widdershins · November 20, 2017

@Blitz Boom

"Heh... well I'm... kinda not looking forward to meeting them again. They were... kind of the reason I left in the first place..."

Ambie reiterated through a low mumble, one hoof abashedly rubbing against the other. Attempting to catch back up in the conversation and the direction they were walking, Ambie picks back up his pace after Happy.

"Oh sure! Shouldn't be too hard to find the cart... don't know why we would want to take sticks to our eyeballs... that sounds pretty painful..."

###################################################################

Blitz Boom, @~Phoenix~ & @Foxy Socks

"Oh? Is that so? Your friend was a Draconequus as well? Well, that would explain a fair bit ...like those wood nymphs. Must make a note for a design for that... Well, perhaps if she had introduced herself among the more conventional ways, I could have set a spot for tea for her as well, but that does seem to be the way with some. A gentleman like Discord does defy introduction, after all! But a new spirit around does sound like something I ought bring up to our Local Princess someday."

Rarity off-hoofidly ponders in her unintentional way of name-dropping her connection to royalty as she had become accustomed to doing with her clientele.

"But do think nothing more on the matter, Good Sir! If anything is harmed, I assure you I have extra stored away somewhere! What kind of businessmare would I be otherwise? Besides! As many times as little Sweetie Bell has ran off with some new roll of fabric to build a go-cart or somesuch, I've grown accustomed to some amount of chaos over the years!"

Rarity trails off with a good-natured chuckle.

genessee · November 20, 2017

@Blitz Boom

Lance frowned and muttered a profanity under his breath. Well, if I can remember wherever their cabin is I could go say goodbye, or at least leave a note. But that would be kind of creepy, wouldn't it? I mean, I just met her yesterday. What if they don't remember me at all? But even with the butterflies in his stomach and thoughts buzzing around his head, he still managed to look mostly unfazed.

"Bummer."

He then turned to address Berry.

"Want to grab a bite to eat anyways? I mean, we're already here, and I didn't eat anything this morning... and I can treat us both, if you'd like?.."

Lance kind of squeaked out the last bit, and instantly regretted it. Great, now I sound like I'm flirting. Should've just kept my muzzle shut.

~Phoenix~ · November 20, 2017

@Blitz Boom

although Phoenix had lost her appetite, there was absolutely no sense in denying her body the nutrients that she needed. that was the main reason she decided not to retreat back to a decent hiding spot after her long winded ramble. her head returned down to the table, where her folded forehooves covered her face.

she listened to Smokey's reply, and she deeply appreciated the amount of sympathy he appeared to be showing. she weren't normally the type of pony who wanted sympathy, as receiving it was a deal more embarrassing than the situation itself. but, it didn't seem like it could be avoided at this point, so she took whatever Smokey could send her way with a pinch of dignity. along with the sympathy, came the sting of what almost appeared to be a compliment. no, in fact, it most definitely was a compliment. perhaps Smokey didn't mean to say it like that, but there was no denial. she could definitely understand Smokey's merits. after all, she knew she was attractive to some degree. she loathed the fact. but she would make no acknowledgement. considering the situation, taking a compliment like that would be almost like giving up her past and accepting things the way they are now. she wasn't sure if she were really ready to do that. she would need to find out soon. the questions have been dancing around in her mind for days.

as she steeped over what she had done, and the consequences, she entered a state of inner anguish. her eyes began to idly explore the room through a small gap in her tiny fortress. her gaze traced the bottom of the glass that were in front of her. she almost wished to continue drinking it, but she refused it to herself. it was almost childish, how stubborn she were being. in any case, she wouldn't be able to hide her face forever.

then, smokey assured her nothing would leave this room. "thank you..." she mumbled a bit through her forehooves. the reassurance had helped her to calm herself a bit. and then, she finally decided to face things. she were treating the whole situation as if she were a foal, being scolded by their mother. but enough with that. she finally lifted her face from the table, and avoided eye contact as she took hold of her wine glass, continuing to sip it.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

@Widdershins @Blitz Boom @Foxy Socks

Rainbowdash trotted up behind Rarity, and peered over her shoulder, noticing the mess that they all seemed to be discussing. it looked like somepony had knocked over a small tea table, and a bit of it had spilled everywhere. along with some bits of broken glass. but now wasn't the time to worry about that. someone had taken notice that Rainbowdash was there.

she would be a little creeped out, in light of the whole robot spider thing. for a good reason too. what's to stop the whole situation from repeating itself? after all, here stood one of the ponies from the whole ordeal right in front of her. but Rainbowdash had to push that to the side. after all, she couldn't ignore a fan.

with a flap of her wings, she lept right over Rarity's head, landing out in front of the two guests "Rainbowdash at your service!" she announced with great volume and pride as she held a hoof to her own chest. she trotted around to the side of the unfamiliar mare, and put a hoof around her shoulder "don't sweat it, plenty of ponies have heard of me. being starstruck is pretty normal" she said rather casually, relating the Pony's shyness to her own presence. it's something she was used to seeing in the young colts and fillies who were over-excited at the notion of meeting a real celebrity.

then she looked over at Briar, cocking her head once again at the Pony's strange appearance. however, he did explain that there was a draconicuus nearby, who was stirring up some chaos. she lept up into the air, and began hovering. "ah HA!" she exclaimed as she pointed a hoof in Rarity's direction "i told you i didn't do anything!"

Edited November 21, 2017 by ~Phoenix~

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