open Casual stroll

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade giggles, "This is Ponyville Cherish, Ponies here tend to" she airhoofs the next word "overreact when it comes to strangeness, but not any longer. The presence of the Mane Six have given them a backbone" Serenade comes to a stop then sniffs the air.

[FanOfManyShows 396]

@Blitz Boom
Astral relaxed a bit as she got up, letting her guard down for the time being as she headed out, heading on her way out of the train with Misty. Misty looking up to Astral. "Hope the house is still good." 

"Should be in order, since no antics happened there. At least while we were there."

"Well I wouldn't think it is too messy either."

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Iron paused, smiling a bit as Emerald spoke. "Brilliant idea. Still a bit iffy for my tastes but, it's worth it." He paced as he thought, still eying Emerald. "and whose crystals?" He looked curiously at her, Sapphire shrugging at it. "I'd think we could make a neutral crystal and use that. Right?"

"I'm not sure, might need to be absorbent to dark magic"
Sapphire also paced, trying to think. "We should do the harder tasks first and the easiest as the last for sure." She turns to Iron.
"What would be the hardest task?"

"Sacrificing a soul, or the timing required to capture dark magic from a curse spell. Many things could be difficult."

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

Deep in his cell, Warlock was still locked up, of course. sighing to himself, Looking around for any other ponies, mainly for the one that had been there previously.
Thoughts crossed his mind as he was still. "How does anypony even eat like this?" He asked to himself, among other things that was the main thing on his head.
Really everything was going through his head, except an escape plan.

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

"I've been around ponies in coronations, just never been the one in the place of them." General Wing said, in reality totally unsure what to say and super nervous, but keeping his cool anyway, he stepped out there, in front of the crowd of ponies, spending only a few moments to collect some semblance of a speech or at least, a thank you.
"I am grateful for this position now, humbly accepting it to the, best of my ability." He looked to Dew. "And I will do what I can to play my part as a general." H said with a smirk while looking forward. 

==================================
@Dji
Zealous chuckled loudly weirdly entertained by her saying that. "There is nothing to get off my chest Watts, I've lived with this for most of my life." He let out a sigh as he relaxed.
"It only bothers me due to being abnormal for a unicorn to not have a horn."

[Rising Dusk 27,514]

@Blitz Boom

Rising Dusk listened to the younger filly talk to him straight.  No more boasting, but of a creature that had suffered the wrath of this Master and seen the things done to others.  Sadly, this was the reality of things.  The detective did not underestimate the dark wizard.  He'd seen the magics the Master was capable of, much better than most could, and it wasn't simply his own magic he wielded, but things even darker.  It was a curious thought actually if even the foe he was up against knew what powers he was using.  Rarely does summoning a being capable of that power end well for the summoner.  Rising could see what was hidden in that dark magic.  He felt sorry for the witch who had been placed under hoof out of fear for so long.

Before he could reply to Lily though, he heard and felt the Master break the connection between the two. True, he didn't reply, but he also knew the strain of maintaining the link was building up while inside the O.M.I.  He was hoping to keep the connection longer to drain the Master more, but oh well.  Turning his attention back to the filly now sitting on the floor of the cage.  She was in such a defeated state, nothing Rising could say would really change her mind on anything.  "Hopeful it won't come to that," he told her in time to hear the cage creak.  Okay, it wasn't perfect yet, but still way better than the first attempt.  Of course Felicia set him a time table of 48 hours, which should be enough for round two with the Master.  Nodding his thanks to her as he turned to leave the cell room.  Sticking a hoof in the pouch of his hoodie to do a quick inventory of supplies.  Six gold disks and the mystery item still wrapped up in the leather scraps.

 "Scarlet, Bash, secure the O.M.I. until The Captain returns," he told the pair while leaving the cell room.  He needed to pay a visit to a cage maker for a few more improvements.  "Sir, come on!  Don't leave me with her!" the pegasus begged, fluttering out of the room.  "Close the door," he chuckled, giving her the option to reduce her interactions with the witch.  "Felicia, we need to return to Workshop 05.  We have a couple of Booms in the need of babysitting," Rising told her rather casually.  Dropping Molotov's name might have been too juicy a fruit for the Master not to try and take up.  The Master got to experience first hoof how protected the O.M.I. was, and should The Captain return soon, even more so.  Workshop 05 was as much of a fortress as the O.M.I. was and hopefully it was enough to draw out the Master, or at least draw out something that the detective could use in coming face to face with this foe.  He walked through the office and lobby to leave the agency.

Peace was always still possible no matter the good or evil.  Their land's newest Princess taught this lesson and proved it many of times.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@FanOfManyShows

"I'm sure it's fine, but I'll come 'round after paying up here just to make sure, alright? Get home safely, and no witchy talk on the street. Remember, princesses, haven't given you a pass on that sort yet."

Chow would flash a grin and wave at the two gals as they went on their way, whilst he went his own. Had to hurry back home here and get those bits before he'd get in trouble, then over to the gals, and then eventually, finally get home where he'd likely just slump down on the couch and pass out for a while. Been a loooong day, and he needed to get his batteries recharged. After making sure the gals were fine of course, though really, if something had suddenly happened, he got the feeling that they'd be able to deal with it. They knew their stuff, and weren't completely out of magic juice yet far as he were aware, though really, what'd he know about that, right?

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@FanOfManyShows

"We will need a magic imbued crystal rank two or higher, about the size of an acorn. If it's not empty, whatever is in it must be used or expelled before the gem can be used for this."

Magical gems were not all that hard to come by all things considered, but it depended on the rank. For example, a rank one were a simple find in mainly oceans and other areas with a lot of magical flow through them, that could be harvested and then sold as heaters for a hoofbath, something for a transportable cooling bag, small fans, that sort of thing. Nothing too massively strong, but useful in their simplicity.

Ranks above that could do all from being possible to recharge or fill with other sorts of magic, and all the way up to being able to run on itself through a loop, and carry an impressive amount of power. Yet the stronger it were, the rarer it were to find, with the strongest among them that were able to run on a loop, being almost impossible to find anywhere, and being illegal to own for private beings. Which in turn of course made them highly valuable at the black market, where depending on the size and function, it could sell for outrageous amounts of bits.

That weren't important right now though, as they just needed a rank two. A simple gem found among the same areas as the rank one's, like a four leafed clover. It couldn't contain an insatiable amount of magic, but they didn't need that either. They needed a sliver of the magic, and as a rank two, that particular gem would be able to contain that if they did it right. This sort of thing were common at most kitchenware stores and the like in Canterlot for a mediocre amount of bits.

"We will have to work slowly on it to make it susceptible to dark magic, but it should manage. If not, we will have to seek alternatives.

We'll need a second one for soul energy. It's not as difficult to go through, but as Sapphire should remember, it's draining, a messy sight, and we'll have to burn the remains straight afterwards. You don't want to risk revenants.

We will dig up Sapphire's corpse when that's done and cleanse the bones, then the blood will be last. And unless you two want to be schooled in how to do everything, I'm going to need a body soon. I can't use magic like this."

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@FanOfManyShows

There weren't many guards around anymore. Just four to make sure everything were running smoothly, whilst the rest had gone up to join in the gathering that they had been summoned for. They'd tell the remaining four what had gone on when they came back, but for now, Warlock would be alone in the cell itself, whilst the others stood outside.

Lieutenant Hogweed had left about a half hour ago, saying that she needed to attend some things, yet right after Warlock had talked out to himself in his solitary confinement, there'd be some mumbling outside, and soon thereafter, the door would open to reveal her, carrying a tray of some basic food. Nothing incredibly impressive, with just a hay sandwich, some water, and an apple, but this were prison after all, so what could one expect?

"Things are a little busy so the staff didn't have time to get down here right now, so figured I'd deliver this myself. Sorry if it doesn't seem like much."

She put the tray down on Warlock's bed and went over to examine how his restraints were. They seemed to still be fitting well, though of course, considering his lack of limbs, he weren't exactly mobile. Not chained to the wall at least, but it weren't much better to have the magic suppression chains on in so many places he did, and not being able to walk or float around. Hopefully he should be able to eat and drink normally, otherwise, Hogweeed would have to help him this time around, and otherwise make sure some other guards did so normally. She wouldn't allow prisoners to starve, even if they had hurt a lot of her friends.

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@FanOfManyShows @Dji

Iron should be able to see that not everything were as simple as he assumed when he entered the balcony, what with the guards mainly being focused on the newly landed sphinx with the sack on his back. They'd still listen to the new general though, as were obvious when they looked away from the sphinx and towards him briefly, as well as some swaying in the air, unsure of what they were going to do here. Duty, or turning around and greet their new general?

Tidal Wave were having a right laugh though as she saw this and pointed towards the big feline with a cheery grin on her face.

"See? I told ya your fluffy friend over there would come back."

She took a few steps forward and let out a loud whistle to get some attention from down under.

"Hey, this one's not an enemy. Put down your pokers and turn around to show my new colleague some respect."

"Night Guard, follow troop."

Screecher voice were surprisingly loud and commanding when she needed it to be, as were evident when she stepped forward and seconded the notion that Tidal Wave had started, which caused both Night and Coastal guards alike to stop their aggression and turn to face the stage, where there'd then a little by little get down on a knee, and kneel before the new general. The Solar Guards took some time more to follow troop, but when Dew took a few steps and nodded too, they followed troop, which finally left the sphinx able without an aggressive force to deal with.

"I am not amused by your underlings."

"Yeah yeah, whatever. Stop your bellyaching for a bit would ya? It's time for the ceremonial weapon hand over. We'll talk later, Spanky."

The sphinx would bore his claws into the ground at the nickname and stare back at the small general.

"My name is Enzo."

"Roger that, but keep it down anyway. This here's the good part."

"Benny, proceed with the ceremony."

Benny had stood a little flabbergasted at what were going on, but as he were called forth, he'd finally have some idea about what to do here that didn't involve looking like an idiot, and walked forward, whilst the other generals and Adviser Dew stepped backwards, leaving him and Iron in the front.

*clears throat* "On behalf of the forge of Canterlot, we present you, General Iron Wings, with a weapon befitting your new post. May it serve you well in the years ahead."

With that, he'd open it up, to reveal a beautifully formed, double-bladed axe made of a particularly strong metal, about the length of Iron's torso. It were made with attacking in mind certainly, but the notched on the lower parts of the blade could be used to catch some attacks and block via that if you were firm with these sort of things in combat. Furthermore, it were covered with runes that had been lifted from Iron's feather design, which should make this possible for the pony to control like if it were his own, metallic feathers. If he wished to, he could show off now by having it rise into the air and spin it around some, and he'd find it to have the same range as his feathers, though he might need to get used to it before it were as good in a tense situation.

(something like this, basically. Just with his cutiemark engraved onto the blades, along with that of his rank in the Solar Guards embracing it)

It weren't as good a job as Benny would have liked, but with the time being what it were, remaking an axe that had been ordered for somepony else to begin with, were the best option he had. He'd work on something else another day, if the general so wished it to be, though the dragon hoped that this would still be pleasing to the new general.

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@Moonlit @Zephyr / Karou

"I can safely say that I have not taken notice of anything odd here before. The castle does not even normally have a garden, and from what you mention and I feel, it does not sound like it have occurred naturally. However... I may have some idea of the culprit."

He wandered closer, along with the always closely following Brittle, who were actually not as terrified of this as some other things, but more transfixed on the weirdness of it all. Furniture grassing, bubble creatures living their own lives and not interacting with the lot of them in any meaningful way beyond just a small glance every now and again, and the garden itself. It were actually kind of nice, compared to the forest where it was full of predators and laughing critters, along with trees that could fall over at any time. It still kept her close though, and wary, as this were the unknown, and that presented terrifying possibilities, yet she she weren't shivering more than usual for the time being as Briar got close enough to feel the grass on the other side of the minuscule fence.

"The draconequus Discord have close ties to the Princess and her friends from what I understand, and can at times be found within the boundaries of this town. I think we should assume that he made this, and considering the grass feels alive and vibrant, it is likely meant as a well meaning gift. I would advice against eating anything from it though, just in case. Draconequui have their tendencies for pranks.

Though, I should mention that another draconequui recently made travel to our town, and as she made clear, are one who revels in doing things relating to nature. This may be her work, though I cannot say what motives she may have had to do so. Potentially nothing, which still makes me lean towards Discord for the time being."

While he kept on this talk, Cherish were about to answer what Serenade had said of the Mane Six - which she assumed were some sort of nickname for Twilight and her friends - when the siren in disguise had halted and started to sniff the air. An action which made the spirit nervous, and starting to look around to see what her nose might have picked up.

There didn't seem to be.... No wait, there were somepony up there it looked like. A whole group even, in front of a garden with something moving. It looked almost like... No, that was impossible. Once they got closer she'd surely see that this were just regular living creatures of some sort, and not the benches she could've sowrn they looked like from here.

"Uhm, i-is it them you can smell? It looks like a bunch of ponies and... A c-changeling, maybe? The drawings never had them with spikes, manes or tails, but I think I see holes in the legs. D-Do you think they're headed for the castle too?"

Cherish had started to whisper as she replied to Serenade, not wanting to be heard even if they were so far from them, and nopony could see her. Thoughts went through her head of Serenade wandering over to them to find out things, and worries that they might then find out their secret, but. surely that'd just be paranoia speaking. Long as she didn't speak, nopony there would know that Cherish were here, and Serenade were used to hiding herself among ponies. This should not be an issue, even if she did wander over there, though the spirit weren't sure what the sirens thoughts were on this. Whatever it were, it would likely define what they'd go and do now.

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@EQ_Theta

On 2/13/2019 at 11:25 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"That's good to hear. We'll make sure he takes his medicine like he should."

"You don't seem to be as cautiously hostile as the guard back there. I guess this might be a once in a lifetime opportunity to examine a longma up close. Wouldn't want to leave you feeling disappointed and I think I need one of those examinations after I broke one of my forelegs. There were some nice kits who were looking into my injuries earlier. Sen, could you take these for a moment?"

"Our guards need to be cautious and mistrustful of outsiders. It's part of the job when you need to keep other protected. He on the other paw, are a little too much for my taste.

As for myself, I see this like Yazma likely did: A teachable moment on some creatures I've never seen before, and from what I've seen in your friends thoughts, you don't seem like hostile creatures, so what reason would I have to be against you? The evidence speaks for itself really."

Hizhel flicked her paw and a notebook appeared next to her, floating in the air along with an ink quilt and pen.

"And those kits you mention are highly praised students of the colleague of mine who teaches the courses on healing magic. I have little doubt that they have done a good job, though I will have a look while I'm at it to make sure. Seeing their results on an unknown race should speak wonders on how far along their studies are."

She'd wait until Lin set down, then blow on her front paws and rub them together to signal she were about ready, then gently planted the right front paw on Lin's scaled chest. In contrast to the longma, Hizhel's paw were soft and hairy, with a gentle nature to it as the kitsune pushed about a few times to find a good position, before stopping a few inched bellow Lin's collarbone.

"Brace yourself, this may sting a little at first."

The feeling of having a needle poking through her skin would come shortly after for Lin. Soon thereafter, she'd feel as if something were floating through her as uninhibited as if she were made of thin air, and wander throughout her body for the next minute or until she broke contact with Hizhel's paw, at which point it would stop immediately. Lin would be able to feel its path through as it should feel like a weak rush of semi-cold water ran around inside her being. A potentially bad feeling, but it wouldn't last for more than a few minutes.

All the while, Hizhel would keep her eyes transfixed on her paw, whilst the pen scribbled things down into the notebook like there were no tomorrow. When it all finally ended and Hizhel removed her paw - provided that Lin had not moved herself before that - the notebook would be halfway full, and midway through a sentence.

Regardless of whatever it had been interrupted or allowed to finish, Hizhel would have the same question right after.

"Are you feeling okay?"

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@EQ_Theta

On 2/13/2019 at 11:25 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"Oh... I-I'm sorry if I was presuming too much. I hope I didn't hurt you."

Lyriel smiled at this and put her hoof on the seemingly guilty feeling mares shoulder.

"Don't concern yourself with this Fluttershy. You could not know that this were to happen, and I can assure you that it didn't hurt, it were just a little uncomfortable.

I would actually thank you for doing this, as now I know what you ponies do to relax, and you too in turn learned a little of my kind. Is that not something to be joyous about, rather than worry of what happened in the moment?"

It were a little more painful than she let on, but Lyriel wanted Fluttershy to feel better, not worse, so mentioning that would be about the worst thin she could do. Besides, she wanted to focus on what she said of it being a teachable moment, far more than what had went on as things happened, as it bred better ground to take the best possible from a situation rather than merely focus on the uncomfortable or painful parts. If she were prone to doing that, it were uncertain if she had ever made it out of the Silver Valley or make it through what the sphinx did, without breaking down and just wallow in self pity and bad memories. Life were more than that, as she were sure the Earth Mother would say.

On 2/13/2019 at 11:25 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"It's just that I didn't want you to feel left out. It wouldn't be right to let you stand outside the spa and watch with Lotus. Maybe there might be something else? Steam rooms, saunas, herbal baths, or seaweed wraps with mud facials? I can ask the masseuses to hold off on the massages."

"I see no issue with observing and learning from what happens to any of you, Fluttershy, nor to just wait and be told after the fact. A place of comfort and relaxation should first and foremost be for those who needs it and can benefit from it. If that means that it is best that I stand outside to allow you two to go through it, I see no issue with that, and I could easily find something to do. Perhaps I would wander to the sanctuary with her and hear tales from your animal companions? I'm sure they have many a tale to tell, and perhaps some problems I could help them with.

Perhaps Angel may be able to entertain her too? They seemed to get along fine from the time I saw them, and I could observe you then, to see what these treatments you speak of are. I think that I would prefer to see before trying more if it came to that, if that is okay?"

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@Rising Dusk

Lily were tempted to make a comment towards Scarlet specifically when it were said that the mare and her were going to spend some quality time together, yet what were the point? She'd have time later, when the pegasus couldn't stay away more and wanted to test her own will against that of Lily. It were cute really, but the witch had many years of experience over Scarlet, and had been living in a place where the chance of you getting sacrificed weren't as small as most would want them to be. Especially not if you disobeyed the wrong ponies. To think that a pegasus who didn't like being seen as anything lesser than those around her were honestly laughable.

Sos he let them keep on talking like they did, including mentioning this Molotov Boom again. A name she were sure her master had heard too and would send somepony out to track down to gain an edge over these ponies. Far be it from her to say that he were not inventive in his methods, but his actions could be seen as rather predictable if you knew him, which were also why she had a pretty good idea of what were going to happen if he didn't manage to get to this Molotov first. That being letting the monster from the chest out before time, as he'd be tired of simply testing the waters anymore. It were unlikely that they could simply deal with that creature without casualties, so she expected these ponies to do harsh things in retaliation. Nothing that would be enough, but something, certainly. Depended on whoever that captain were. She'd see when he or she came around.

As for Felicia, she whirred in agreement to what Rising were proposing, however she also came with a correction to a falsehood in his statement.

"ℂ𝕠𝕣𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟: 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕜𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕡 𝟘𝟝 𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕤 𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕙𝕠𝕞𝕖. ℕ𝕖𝕨 𝕟𝕒𝕞𝕖 𝕦𝕟𝕒𝕧𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖."

She didn't know that the officer had picked up this false name for the place before, after Molotov had yapped it out in connection to a dream she had interrupted when waking him up some time before this. Now that she had though, the fact remained that it had to be corrected in her mind, though she couldn't tell him what the name actually were, not write it, as Molotov had so far not called the place anything beyond his workshop, which were less of a name and more of just designating what it were. She'd have to address this with her creator at an opportune time, though for now, it seemed their time to wander away.

She'd do her best to give a wave towards the two ponies who could not understand her, yet refusing to do so to the pony in the cage, before turning around and skitter towards the door.

before they could get out of the building though, once they got to the front room, they'd find there was a few voices going off on the other side of the front door, with one of the muffled voices being louder and seemingly agitated. No words were getting through until the door would eventually be opened, at which point a certain pair of sisters stood on the steps, with the smaller one finishing saying something whilst the larger were busy holding her back from trying to enter the building.

"- and he's going to regret it!"

Null seemed to be about ready to kick something, whilst Void looked drained and strained right now, with her front legs around Null to keep her at bay, and neither of them taking notice of the door eventually opening. Seemed like Rising had something of an issue at hoof here, at least in regards to his passage being blocked.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"There are certainly merit to what you say, though how much they would be prey without magic could be up for debate. Not every pony is a unicorn or alicorn after all. yet I will agree that it will hurt them quite a bit to not have access to that on a large scale attack from physically stronger beings who still holds magic of their own, such as dragons or sphinx. I can imagine both parties would hold interest in this country for their own reasons.

As for what you say with greed being your motivation, I must admit that I had thought it to be something more... Complex. That being said, it is your own choice, and who am I to say that it is wrong? I do not hold the same background as you after all, nor the racial inclination towards hoarding. I would say though, that at some point, when your riches lays vastly before your eyes, you should consider treating yourself to a good time. One shouldn't live a long life such as yours without sometimes allowing themselves to simply bask in everything their heart desires."

Marley rose from his seating position and folded the fish paper up a few times.

"And speaking of desires, are your stomach satisfied with your meal thus far? Our time before we are taken away to the auction are ticking, and it might be that you have other places you wish to visit? If not that, a trip to the forest to find something large and squealing could also be a fun little activity."

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@Catpone Cerberus

After Fah'lina were done laughing at things, she rose up from the water and flapped in the air in front of the siren, using the large ears that were attached to her arms and legs as spread out wings. Wanting to show off as well, she took a few spins around Nada's head too, before stopping up in front again and pointing up the river before them, and leading her finger down the stream to indicate direction.

After that, she'd try to make splashy emotions as best she could without falling out of the air, before going onward to chomping into thin air and rubbing her belly.

Basically she were trying to say that they should go up the river and find some good fish to eat. Sugar were all fine and good for the mimic, but she needed some fish in her diet too, and thought that it might be kinda fun to take the siren along and see if she hunted like Serenade did. Nada were smaller after all, so perhaps she had trouble with fish that size, and after having her fun Fah'lina didn't mind helping the siren a little. Plus she'd get bored if she were alone for too long, so this seemed like as good a thing to do as anything. pack animals like her weren't meant to be alone for longer periods of time.

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@Lucid_Nightlight

The punch were effective enough to pummel the mango beneath the floorboards, and tear it from the suction cups that now dangled with acid dripping out of the squirming, torn ends.

"You gonna just take that, huh? Or are you gonna man up?!"

Yeah yeah, she wasn't the best at hype speeches, but whatever, it worked, right? Looked that way at least as six new tentacles - this time with spikes and suction cups down the side - latched on to the edge of the hole and propelled the mango up to the ceiling, where the tentacles would latch on. It were in several pieces by now, with a gooey, venomous ooze keeping it's parts together as they stretched out and bounced back like glue. Every time it opened, it would try to lounge more toxic goo towards the lemon as it crawled around up there and attempted to use agility to avoid more blows, but it weren't a winning fight as it stood right now. A good blow more to the fruit itself and it might be all over.

Or you know, it would melt into something disturbing. it depended on the limits of its potential mutations. Knowing who made it, there were likely some more gross stuff coming.

It was at that point that Lucid stomped down and changed some things around in the joint, which took Anomaly's attention away to have a glance at things.

"Hmm... The The fish are kinda tacky, but you can never go wrong with monkey mutants... The decaff one though? Kinda fun, but you need to go all out. Like this."

She snapped her tail, and suddenly the decaff - including the spat out stuff - rose up and went to force itself into the pony's muzzle to be drunk.

"Rookie mistake, hehe. And y'know, the rest is fine. Monkeys, right?"

Snapping her tail, Anomaly turned the counter into a caramel slime, which kept the form more or less, but slung out gooey vines to wrap up ponies and force them into its delicious form, and it wouldn't let go before whoever it had grabbed tasted it. Harmless fun unless you were diabetic, and really, if you were that, then why be in a bakery like this? That'd just be silly.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

The lemon put on a suit and walked off to probably open a library or something.

"Well, there he goes. Off to a successful life."

"I raised it well."

The decaf pony ran off he was not gonna stay in this evil bakery.

"I guess the mango wins then?"

[Sekel 692]

@Blitz Boom, @FanOfManyShows

KARMIC FATE

"This is going so well," Karmic said sarcastically, burying herself against Enzo's neck to try to be as small as possible so she wouldn't be noticed. "Maybe those soldiers should take a chill pill and relax. All that stress is going to blow their hearts sooner or later," she muttered before her eyes widened. "Is that a dragon!?"

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"A road trip? That doesn't sound so bad. It's what I've been doing for the past few months anyway, just going around Equestria," Aurora said happily.

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

Twilight went to the desk she had in the library and summoned out a couple of scrolls, inkwells, and a pair of quills. She gathered the items in her magic and trotted back over to Nerzhei.

"Do you know how to use a quill, Nerzhei, or are you used to other writing implements?" Twilight grinned, placing the items between them both. "Because we have a lot of translating to get to and a lot of writing."

@FanOfManyShows

WATTS MECHANO

"Yes, while abnormal, it's still a part of you. I don't really mind the fact that it's a stump and not a horn," Watts told him before laughing. "This gives me an idea! I can use you as a subject!"

[Widdershins 9,959]

@Dji 

 After having shunted off his rider, Kaltrop remained hovering, fruitlessly commenting as Dawn made her own attempts to turn herself about midair to now avail. His unfinished sentences punctuating between flaps of his large wings.

 "Use your-...

  Use your stupid w-...

 Fine."

 With a spinning dart of a dive usually reserved for snatching small birds for a meal out of the air, Kaltrop quickly covers the distance between the two to grab Dawn by the far end of her plummeting, catching her back in his claws & spinning under her to somersault rightside up again only to cover the several yard distance to the nearest rooftop and landing there with a thrown, two foot skidding stop to Dawn on the hay-thatched rooftop, the drake awkwardly alighting on the roof's peaked center some few feet farther.

 Sweating as much as a drake can & awkwardly trying to stand on a rooftop not exactly sized for anything longer/bigger than your more flat-footed pony, Kaltrop mumbles.

  "If you don't like the air, don't do things that get you sent there..."

 

   @Catpone Cerberus

Me? I am a great many things.

 The floating llama-esque head continues, rather emphatically. It's mouth not so much opening to speak as its lipline from its bifurcated, pursed mouth twisting to pose in whatever expression it deems to fit its words & expression.

  I have been called a god, a destroyer of worlds, an immense wurm of disproportionate moral... Dodger of Court Fines...

The head begins a very slow counterclockwise (naturally) spin around its center in the portal. Somewhat akin to a broken record. Ironically enough.

 ..Though most use the appellations of Dork, Urgh, and "Ohnothimagain." ...Yet to translate that last phrase though.

Having now completed slightly over a one-third-turn now in the portal, the rightward one of the draconequus's enormously large ears, previously having been stuck folded back through the edge of the portal, practically unfurls itself to flop down and easily cover the five foot distance to the ground. The left, gigantically floppy bunny ear appears to be attempting the same. It seems as if Widdershins isn't so much as travelling through said portal, but stuck halfway through while reacting to different gravity on either side of it.

But you can call me Widdershins! Do believe that's the name I'm going by in this continuity. 

…

  ...Gosh, this is uncomfortable.

 Widdershins's long mouth shortens on his somehow equally shorter, yet longer, snout in a wincing expression having now reached a point pretty much upside-down of the position where he had originally appeared.

...If you could, uh, help a Draggonaquiz out? Was trying to unclog the toilet with my face. Rose Luck is gonna so be totes mad again! Heh!

… Y'know, if I had a spine, this'd probably hurt even more!

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby didn't really have anything else to add to the topic, she wanted to point out that her whole point about her greed was that it was not a matter of choice, and that maybe her picture on 'treating oneself to a good time' was to lay in vast piles of riches, but she decided against it because even she didn't want to get stuck on every meaningless detail.
"Though I have no complains about the taste and quality of the meat, you can hardly call so little a meal" she commented when she too got up and readied herself to leave "And I don't have any place I see a need to visit, there is the illusion thing on my necklace that you suggested of course, but I'd say better time for that would be when we have more time." "And when it comes to your latter suggestion, I have to admit I am not sure of your implication, as it does sound like you are suggesting to go for a hunt, which I don't oppose, but since it's coming out of a peak, I'm not entirely sure"

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Nada followed Fah'lina with her eyes as she flew around her head, and tilted her head as she tried to figure out what Fah'lina was trying to say, and though she didn't get the whole message, she understood enough to get the general idea, but just to make sure, she said it out loud to check if she got it right "So you want us to go down stream to eat?". If she was to get a affirmative answer, she would then start making her way to indicated direction, staying as close to the mimic as possible.

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

@Widdershins
Cerberus just looked at the creature curiously as it spoke, and besides a general caution he didn't seem to be scared or otherwise concerned, but the cats that had came closer with him were another story, as they were clearly threatened by this unknown entity and possibly by the feel of magic coming from the portal. When the new acquaintance started spinning, Cerberus leaned his head to keep it on the same angle to best of his ability, and when his neck stopped him from tilting any more, he flopped to his side and ultimately ended up on his back when Widdershins reached the upside-down point.

His eyes widened a little from surprise when the ears came to view.

As this happened, he replied to what the talking head said "Widdershins, It's nice to meet you, I'm Cerberus, but I don't really care what you call me."

When Widdershins asked for help, Cerberus got back on his feet, he was bit confused by the toilet part of his comment, but considering that this thing was coming through a portal, it wasn't really the weirdest thing in the situation. He took hold of Widdershins's head, but before he did anything "What kind of help are you actually asking for?" "Do I push? pull? twist?"

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

"I feel the stinging alright. And my leg is a little tender after having to use it so soon after treatment. Mostly, I am feeling alright. Maybe a good night's rest is in order. Sen? Do you want a go?"

It was strange. Besides the stinging sensation, Lin didn't seem to notice anything out of the ordinary for her. She flinched when the needle pierced her hide but after that, it was as if everything was just normal, if uneventful. The sensation can be compared to running through thick brambles, some of which stuck to their skin; minor sensations but only noticeable once they had to come off. Those really bothered her as a child but as she grew up, it wasn't anything to talk about. Everyone knew it like she did and nobody would think about it. Having to experience it again was bizarre since it was a whole new scenario. 

As for Sen, he didn't see why he shouldn't try this process out for himself. Lin was fine, more or less, and he didn't stand to lose anything. He approached Hizhel and sat down before him, ready to undergo this procedure.

"I'd like to also have one of these examinations. And if I may ask, does healing magic have limitations? Like casting a spell can heal scars but can't heal side effects of having infected wounds?"

As uncharacteristic it was for Sen to ask about anything magic-related, he was secretly curious about this aspect. He had some form of healing magic granted to him but he never really had a chance to ask about the extent of it. It wasn't something he would openly ask about but nonetheless needed to get it out sooner or later. Even Lin was surprised by this, given his attitude to magic was for the longest time a negative one. Only recently did he show any sign of lightening up on this stance. A pleasant one, perhaps, and she was happy he got this chance. 

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

@Blitz Boom

"Hmm... I suppose the spa ponies could give you a tour of the place. Aloe and Lotus are the most well-known proprietors of the spa and they are very knowledgeable about the services they offer. We could speak to them if you want to know more. And if you want, the animal sanctuary is always open to visitors. Well, within reasonable visitation hours, but the animals seem to like having you around. Usually only Doctor Fauna and I go there during odd hours but they don't seem to mind; I'm sure they'll appreciate getting to spend more time with you."

Perhaps some time has passed between leaving the castle and having this tour around town. Fluttershy was now curious about what Nerzhei might think of this. On one hoof, it sounded like a good idea to let the dragon stroll around town and maybe relax a bit. On the other, it might make her think the pegasus is deliberately trying to avoid having to continue working on her assertiveness and confidence issues. But wouldn't it send the right message the dragon to learn that the timid pegasus is taking charge on the matter? Maybe but not everyone sees eye to eye on this. It really depends on what Nerzhei sees or chooses to see and how she understands it. But there was no point in letting the what ifs stew in her head; Fluttershy had let her know about what she and Lyriel have been thinking. 

"So, shall we head on back to the castle? Let's let Nerzhei know about what we have in store for her tomorrow!"

[Early Sunsets 2,106]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

"Draconequui?" Zephyr scratched the back of his head. "I'm not going to get turned into a muffin, am I?"

Sun Fire shook her head. "If they're associated with the Princess I'm sure we'll be fine. I trust she wouldn't allow them to do as they want if they were hostile. I think so, anyway," she said nervously. She glanced at the garden again. It certainly didn't look dangerous, but the unnaturalness of it creeped her out a bit. "I guess the name Discord fits him quite well if this was his doing," she thought.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade keeps sniffing "I can smell him"  Her eyes turn green and she bears her teeth, fangs included. Her wings and tail twitch. She keeps moving her head back and forth, and she's stomping her hooves.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Lucid_Nightlight

"Well, the mango got the fight, but the lemon went on to get itself a life... I think they both won?"

She snapped her tail and the mango turned to dust, before going once more and patching up the holes that had been left from the acid it had spend time spitting around.

Heh, silly pony running off. The coffee's not gonna stop following him. See?"

Anomaly pointed at the liquid which followed the decaff pony without delay. Silly thing probably thought that he could just escape the weirdness. Hah! They were draconequui (and Lucid). There were no escape from their meddling.

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

 

@Dji @FanOfManyShows

Enzo glanced up towards the dragon on the balcony, who were only a little larger than a regular sized pony, and wore armor carrying marks of both the Night and Solar guards.

"Little dragon who acts like a pony. Hardly a threat."

He still weren't happy seeing a dragon, considered his history with their kind, but this tiny morsel were hardly part of those who deserved his ire. He looked far too young, and those the sphinx had known were not fans of ponies. They would never wear the equine guards colors like this.

"When you're done with this matter, Dew, you will come to us without delay. My patience for your time will not remain forever."

With that, Enzo turned and slowly - to make sure he didn't hit anyone - made his way over to a more quiet part of the garden, where he could set both bag and Aurora down, then unravel the bag and start putting the books within into some piles to make them easier to sort through by whatever fool were to assist with this.

"Why do you find the presence of dragons shocking, little pony? Are they they not common among your kind, or do you harbor ill will towards their kind?"

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

 

@Dji

"Heh, gonna end with that if they don't fly out 'round his parts of the country. Ain't gonna disappoint my queen by letting her message go unsent, though wandering into that hive with the rep she have? *whistles* That's gonna be a tricky deal to get sorted. Sounds like you'd be up for it if it went to that though, eh?"

Happy joked about it, but really, other changelings weren't too thrilled with Onache at the best of times before, and now, reaching out to one of those that she were likely to have been pretty harsh on? Were gonna test how much Thorax had been able to let go, along with his subjects, since he'd probably not risk a revolt by trying to connect with a queen that his own drones weren't to thrilled about.

Still, could be kinda fun to see some of his old hivemates that had migrated over from what he understood. Might be they'd be less on his case when they weren't hungry and jealous of the attention he got from their queen.

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

 

@Dji

"I'm a scholar. I hardly see how I couldn't know how to use one."

Opening her bag, she pulled out a small, elongated wooden box, and opened it to reveal a crude stone quilt filled with squid ink, and two eagle feathers. She picked up the one who had clearly already been used, and put it down on one side of the desk, along with the ink, though she didn't pull any paper up from her bag. It hadn't been something she carried around with her often, and she imagined that what she had were now destroyed after the sphinx had her angry phase earlier, so it were lost. Along with several translated pages of this book, though at least she could remember those and were able to write them down again if needed be. It would be far worse if the book itself had been ruined.

"I usually harvest my own materials, but if this isn't befitting the paper you have, I'll work with what you have.

That being said, how do you wish to proceed on this? The words are intermingled, so perhaps we each have a piece of paper, discuss the meaning of certain words and write what it might mean from our respective sides, then write it down on a third piece when we are in agreement on the correct translation?"

There'd likely be other ways too, but Nerzhei weren't used to working with others besides Lotus, and the bunny usually did what she were doing now when it came to this, by jumping into the bag and taking herself a nap.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I wouldn't trust this town to hold one great enough with the sort of enchantments I think you would wish for in regards to your necklace. Worry not though, I will ask around when we reach the auction, and see if I can find a name of one who is prone to doing such things effectively, as well as discreetly. Wouldn't want to have anyone tell on you now, would we?"

Marley gave her a knowing look, as he were certain that anyone who would just be doing their job would be threatened into silence by the hidden dragon to keep her secret, which might end badly. Using one who were used to dealing with shady types and criminals who should not be crossed, would ensure one who knew how to keep their muzzles shut, as they wouldn't want to be known as a snitch. Those had a tendency to disappear under mysterious circumstances.

"As for the my intentions, it is merely to ensure that you are well fed, as it hardly seems fitting to treat one for dinner but then leave them hungry. If your stomach are not sated, and a hunt is then needed, the very least I could do would be to direct you towards a fitting area and ensure that you can do as you wish to undisturbed, yes?"

He were but a gentlebird, wanting to do right by those around him. Unless they got on his nerves, or threatened his friends or employer. At that point, one would find a less than gentle side of the muscular griffon. He'd hardly be worth his salt as a bodyguard if words were the only thing he could sling out after all, no?

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Fah'lina started clapping her paws and nodding in response to Nada's question, happy that the siren got what she were on about, before flying up the river at a speed that'd allow Nada to keep pace, though she would test how quick the siren could swim a few times just to see if she could speed up.

Eventually they'd reach a point where the river expanded into a minor lake, from where a large hole had gotten bashed into the ground a long time ago. The river continued after that, but this here were a nice enough place in the mimic's opinion. Rich on varied fish that swam in the stream or lingered/rested here for a time, surrounded by rocky formations that kept it somewhat tougher to get to for land dwellers, and there were some underwater crevices to hide in, just in case some troublesome folks came around.

The part with all the fish though, were what Fah'lina were mostly focused on, and she pointed down into the water at the swimming dinner arrangement who'd try to scurry away from the siren on sight. The mimic weren't something they really registered as much of a threat that easy, but the siren were large, so it triggered their instincts easier. Nothing a good fish pony couldn't handle though.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2/15/2019 at 3:58 PM, EQ_Theta said:

"I'd like to also have one of these examinations. And if I may ask, does healing magic have limitations? Like casting a spell can heal scars but can't heal side effects of having infected wounds?"

"Everything have some limitations. Healing wounds are the basics, but dealing with side effects of infections, such as necrosis or discoloration, requires an advanced understanding of the craft. Magical wounds are another matter entirely, which usually requires a specialist that are well versed in draining the magical residue whilst healing at the same time. Changeling doctors are surprisingly efficient at this, but I know of a few kitsune who could give them a run for their money, depending on the magic used.

Then of course, there's the highly advanced arts of reattaching limbs. Not say, a finger or an ear, which any healer worth their salt can do. More along the lines of attaching an entire limb, or in extreme cases, using a suitable donor limb to replace what were taken. Few are good at that, as it requires a being well versed in balancing both healing and necromancy in a harmonious way, which are not easy with opposing magic like that. I couldn't think of one specific that could do so, including myself, but I've read in some books before that the far away country of Harrowmark once prided itself in being able to harness light atop ground infested by dark magic. If there's any credence to that, they'd likely be the best place to look for information about this sort of thing.

It will be risky business even if you knew what to do though. Necromancy are forbidden magic for a reason, as it corrupts and decays by its very nature. Good could come from knowing what were needed to reach the peak of the healing arts, but it is far too easy to fall into temptation or get consumed by the darkness, so at least here in Neighpon, both the ponies and us agrees that no practice into necromancy are to be tolerated.

Not that there's much of a need for us, as there's being made some strides in realistic-looking, magical prosthetics that are perhaps not as good as a regular limb, but can be made to feel realistic enough. A far better solution than meddle with things that tend to only spell ruin."

While talking, the kitsune were putting Sen through the same process as Lin had been through, from the magical needle poking through to the wisp searching through his being, though this time, it went faster, as there were quite the similarities between himself and Lin, which meant there were technically lesser to write. Though even with that in mind, she still managed to fill around the same amount of pages of a new notebook that she had on Lin. Writing differences tended to fill out pages too.

"You had a small fracture on your hip that I patched up, but other than that, you seem healthy.

Ah, and as for what you mentioned miss, you just need to be out and about some more, so to speak. We can mend up a leg without much issue, but your muscles will need to get to work again since they tend to end up slumbering some after the process. It's not ideal, but the olden days alternative tends to include an incredible amount of pain, so it's seen as the lesser evil. I'd suggest some stretching motions too, just don't overdo it, or start to run around. Let things ease in by itself. I'd tell you to say that to this one too, but I know he's awake and listening. You have to pretend better to cheat ears like these, thestral."

"I'm just *urgh* listening in."

Rosa's eyes opened slowly, though as he spoke, it should already be apparent tell that he felt tired, drained, and as sore as if he'd flown straight into a house. The gaze he sent into the ceiling didn't hide it either.

"Sure you are, and I'm a diamond dog, heh. Joking aside though, before your friends squeeze all the life out of you, we had to rip your outfit off to get to your wounds, but the blood pretty much ruined ruined the cloth anyway. Your head piece is intact though."

"I can... Replace the rest. So *groan* what happened? Is the... Statue okay?"

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

 

@EQ_Theta

"Following them and seeing what they may have sounds good, thank you. I will speak with Lotus at the next possible time to figure out if she would be comfortable spending time without her draconic friend for a while. Her opinion should be weighed in.

But for now, yes, let us return to our friends. They may miss us. Hmhm, or perhaps they've found a tome, and are fighting over who gets to read first?"

Lyriel let out a short, pearly giggle at the thought of the pony and dragon pulling on each end of a large tome, both going *Mine!*. It were highly unlikely of course, yet as the imagery had entered her mind, she could not help but laugh at how it seemed to fit the two. In an exaggerated matter of course.

That fun little moment aside, she would follow Fluittershy back towards the castle, and feast upon what she had been given slowly. Lyriel were not one to gorge on things, so there were a good chance that both of these things may hang off from her for around an hour, if not more, depending on what her attention would be directed towards. Potentially less if say, a hummingbird came flying around who wished to have a small drink, which she would not deny it.

A lot had happened in the short span of time they had been out that would occupy her mind for a time when night fell and she were to return to the forest, yet Lyriel found that it were a blessing to have found a pony like Fluttershy, who had been willing to show her all of these things, and explain to her what they meant. Lyriel wanted desperately to be welcomed among the ponies, so that she may find some connections besides those of the animals, much like she had with her old brethren. The sphinx had seemingly managed to cast the spell over the forest which she claimed would cleanse her brethren of their corruption if they ever were to enter the Everfree Forest, but she held no hope that she could ever get them here, and as such, she would have to find new friends, and if the Earth Mother were willing, a new family. From what she could see, this place brought in many, varied beings at least, so who knew? Perhaps one day, another of her kind would wander in, seeking an enclave.

Ah, but that were thoughts for another day. For the time being, there were enough to juggle with for her for a time, yet there were one thing that she needed to do first, after she had wandered and thought for a few minutes.

"Fluttershy? I would like to thank you. I had long wished to see this town for myself, but knew not how to approach it, or even when. Then you came forth, and welcomed me to not only join in the sights, but also be told of and experience the lives that your kind have here. Perhaps it means little to others, but to me, it is a kindness that speaks well of your warm heart, and I cannot thank you enough for giving me your trust. I hope that one day, I may be able to repay you for the wonderful gift you have bestowed upon me, and that you will allow me to think of you as a friend."

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

 

@Moonlit @Zephyr / Karou

"If you were, I would think it to be a temporary thing at worst, as Discord have sided with the forces of Equestria. Whatever pranks may happen will likely be harmless or reverted quickly, as to not catch ire from his companions.

As for the female draconequus though... Well, I will say that I don't think she would turn you into a doughnut, however I cannot assure you she won't do other things, and perhaps make you something more nature-specific. Such as an evergrown.

To explain it briefly, I have only met her once, at the outskirts of town before reconstruction could begin, and at the time I learned that she is both a draconequus who take high interest in mutations and plant life, as well as her being a more neutral force than anything, only doing things for her own amusement. She also uhm... *clears throat* Created my kind by mutating regular beings around six centuries ago."

The last part were spat out quickly after his pause, as he thought of whatever or not this should be mentioned. However, hard as it were to accept this fact, it were undeniable, and he had to both live with that, and share the word to those who would listen.

"I know not her reasons, if ever there were any, but I have sensed the seed that she planted to grow the first of the sacred trees. The essence of nature and chaos were impossible to mistake for anything else, and had I not begged her to stop, she would have planted it in town to prove that it were indeed her doing that created my kind.

I am aware that it is a difficult one to believe. I did not wish to either, and I think many more of my kind will be reluctant to trust this, but the truth remains what it is, and it is something that serves no purpose being hidden away. As for how it relates to this, it is simply that if this garden is her creation, rather than Discord's, I cannot say what will happen if you step off the path and thread upon the grass, but I beg of you to not test it, lest the mood have struck for her to set a trap for her own amusement."

Some way from them, Cherish jumped back from seeing Serenade growl. Not that she were visible so that they could see it, but regardless, the sudden change in Serenade had stricken Cherish with surprise and honestly worry, as for whom it were she referred to.

"W-Who are you talking about? The p-ponies over there? Have they d-done something to you before?"

The growling, stomping, head swaying back and forth. And those fangs! Dear Celestia, what had befallen Serenade to make her react this way? And by whom? Had to be one of the ponies up there, but which one? The cape-wearer with the weird tail, or the other one, who didn't have that many things that made him stand out she could easily put a finger on. Not currently at least.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou "Not the ponies...HIM". Sereande sniffs the air again, "The unhinged one...Discord". Serenade's eyes continue to glow green, "Changlings and Sirens used to fight over our food supply...Changlings feed on positive emotions, Sirens can do both..but Discord...." She growls again, "His reign nearly wiped out our races."

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"Maybe he will become a cowboy and he will have decaf chasing him for a while until there is a final fight and he kills the decaf."

"That would be so cool!"

Lucid looked at Pringle.

"Cowboys don't say argh and make ponies walk the plank, silly! Ninjas do that."

"Argh! I'm a ninja!"

[Early Sunsets 2,106]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

"That's good to hear. I don't want to be a muffin for the rest of my life," Zephyr said.

Sun Fire looked at Briar, shocked. "A draconequus can do that? I knew they were powerful, but I didn't know they could create an entirely new race. We're lucky they're not hostile, then," she said nervously. She glanced at the unusual tree, still unable to get over the wrongness the garden made her feel. It wasn't that it felt dangerous; it just felt like nothing in the garden felt like it should even exist, let alone sit in a small town in the middle of Equestria.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

"I suppose so. It's all so new and different, learning about this. All I grew up with are herbal remedies, medicinal plants that have a lot of uses from making bandages to consumable drinks. Never once did I ever consider the possibility of seeing healing magic close up until recently."

"Or just being able to see this new perspective on medicine in general. Thanks for patching up that fracture. Didn't think that was there until you pointed it out."

As this was going on, the poking needle that Lin commented on earlier came into view, piercing Sen's skin and he could now see the innate magical gift granted to him at work. His skin weaved around the needle, sealing the exposed opening as quickly as it came to be. It was never quite as hyperactive as it is at the moment but the sight was rather uncomfortable to see, let alone feel. It was like a claw grabbing a barbed stick; one can feel the sharpened edges digging into the skin. Difficult to keep out of mind when the sensations of the barb moving beneath the surface was apparent in even the most subtle of motions. No doubt it was a relief when the needle was removed. And even better was Rosa waking up.

"Rosa! There's plenty of good news!" Lin exclaimed as she moved over to his bedside, grabbing her saddlebag off of her brother on the way there.

"The statue's been delivered and the trial is happening tomorrow. Scarcity thought you might be interested in these documents. Seems like she dug up some of Filigree's past and these birth certificates are part of it. Might this be more proof about your brother's identity? It is likely we might be see him tomorrow; you can meet and chat him up. I suppose he might have some questions about all of this when he finds out." 

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

@Blitz Boom

"I'm sure Twilight will be gushing in excitement over wanting to share her insights. She's very excitable when she's got a good book and wouldn't stop talking about it."

Just that thought was enough to get Fluttershy giggling. Rainbow Dash and Twilight certainly exude that kind of image when they get their hooves on a new Daring Do book. Before they know it, they'll bar themselves into the castle library and talk all day about what they just read, bringing back the old books and mentioning any and all call-backs to the previous stories or planning a visit to the next Daring Do convention. Twilight's duties oftentimes keep her from going but Dash would bring back some merchandise, including signed posters. It certainly helps that she knows the author behind the books, even went on adventures with her. Very few can brag about that without being called a liar, and even fewer could bring up being on the cover of a book, approved by the one and only A.K. Yearling. 

What followed is Lyriel's heartfelt thanks, a positive wave of emotions surged over the pegasus. Genuine and heartwarming to hear, a confirmation that even without being defined by being chosen to wield the element of kindness, her heart was an exemplar of that virtue. Fluttershy leaned close and hugged Lyriel before beginning their walk back to the castle.

"We are friends now, Lyriel. You don't owe me anything. I like to think about the best in everypony and every creature I meet and seeing your interactions with nature and animals makes me think we'll get along very well." 

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby took Marley's word on the topic of the necklace, as she was not only unfamiliar with the needed magic, but also with ponies in general when it came to knowing who to trust, so she just nodded at his his 'question'. "Well, like I said, I have nothing against a little hunt, so lead the way my little birdy, I'll be more than happy to show you my magnificence in its full glory." the later part of the sentence had a humorous undertone, like she was making fun of the fact that she had a very high opinion about herself and she knew it.

-------------------------------------
Nada wasn't swimming to her full potential, so she was able to speed up quite a bit from her original speed, it was one of the perks of being smaller than sirens usually, as the small size made swimming quite a lot easier and faster. She stayed in place underwater for a moment when they had arrived to the lake, scanning the area with her senses to get a picture of the surrounding area and the fish that was available, and when she was done, after few laps around the lake, she proceeded to catch some fish without any particular problems, sure few got away before she caught them, but that was the life of a hunter, sometimes the prey got away.

 

[OptimisticNeighsayer 471]

On 1/15/2019 at 1:26 PM, Blitz Boom said:

@OptimisticNeighsayer

As the music began, Vivid had closed her eyes and stood still, soaking in the tunes as they slowly rolled in, calm as a trip to the beach. It were a soothing begining yet her favorite part were not that, but rather what were the come.

When the music took on in force and intensity, to a point where it felt as if the ground shook beneath her hooves, a smile spread on her face. Memories of her sitting quietly near a party hall and listening to this very song play through the walls came to mind. Memories from a happier, more innocent time, even if she weren't allowed to go inside the building. It had all been so simple back then, without the hardships that came later in life, and through the years she had to seek harder and harder to remember this kind of good memory. It hadn't been perfect obviously, but compared to being chased out of town by a fraudulent shaman, the years on the road and then her eventual deal with the demons? It were pretty good, and throughout the years she had spent locked in crystal, this had been the setting she had stayed in, within her dreams.

Eventually, the music would end, yet Vivid still stood with closed eyes and just basked in the moment a little more, reluctant to let go of this pleasant blast from her past. When she did open them again, she still felt happier than usual though, and somewhat removed from the worries and stress of the last few days for the time being. She assumed this was what ponies felt when they went to a spa these days. An experience she wished she could have, yet due to her condition, that were currently not an option, much to Cadence's dismay. The princess had hopes that something like that would ease Vivid's mind a little.

"It have been nearly four thousand years since last I heard that melody, yet it still ignites a spark of joy in my chest. Especially when done this well. You have my gratitude for playing that."

Vivid were usually not one with a friendly look over her. The narrow eyes, the runes, flaming ears, alluring, shoulder-devil voice and general outfit, weren't something that tended to make her look as if she were anything less than bad news, wrapped in a passable pony disguise meant to lure the foolish into trouble. Now however... Well, she looked the same, but there was a certain spark in her eyes, and joyfulness that mixed in her facial features and voice that were at least making her feel more pleasant.

"You have fulfilled your end of our bargain, and I always honor my deals. So tell me then, are you ready to have this moved to your home, or whatever building you may have room for this in?"

"Th-thank you," Ivory replied. He knew that he had made a few errors in the playing, particularly on a technically difficult passage in the middle where he ended up playing augmented chords in the left hoof while the back hooves and right hoof played diminished sevenths. But Vivid apparently didn't notice, or wasn't too picky on interpretations. What mattered was the light in her eyes and the smile on her face, a sudden and joyfully-offputting change that gave himself a big, if awkward, grin as well.

"Well..." he continued in response to her question. "I didn't intend to actually have this thing moved anywhere. This place is still Royal property, and I heard rumors that Celestia is going to make the Castle a historical site--you seem to know them well, is that true? The console's well bolted to the floor and we could risk ripping up the walls if we try to touch the pipes. My house--and shop--barely has room for this thing in any case."

On 1/15/2019 at 1:26 PM, Blitz Boom said:

@OptimisticNeighsayer

Cover-up cautiously took a sip of the offered liquid. It was pretty much as Starlight said, and he could certainly see why it was something you'd offer others. The blend of bitter and sweet were interesting, and from what he had seen of Equestrians, they sure loved their sweets. However, he personally just thought it passable, and that was mainly for it still being bitter. He hadn't grown up with sweets like other ponies in this country had, and his snacks were more earthy, bitter, and occasionally salty in it. Sweets for him had been a small bag of nuts and roasted roots, along with a cup of dreadberry tea, and those kinds of tastes were still his favorite.

That being said, he would get through this a little by little, and enjoy it as much as he could, as being offered something and then just rejecting it seemed like it could be seen the wrong way, and he didn't want to step on anyponys hooves.

"Well, I've lived in Equestria since I was two, but my family and everypony else I knew were settlers from Harrowmark."

If Starlight had ever heard of that country, it would provide an additional layer of challenge, as though the country were small, the concentration of magic users were quite noticeable, and most stories would revolve around how they were either mistrustful of outsiders because they might be minions of the wilderness witches, or of the mentioned magic users themselves. Magic - and especially the dark kind - ran thickly through the ground there, giving raise to a sort of back and forth between the wilderness witches, who were generally evil, and the harvest mages, who tended to be protectors of their towns. It were a twisted kind of balance between them and the farmers that rarely included unicorns, and which seemed crazy to most who just looked at it from a distance. Some scholars had managed to make some fascinating books about it though, yet as the country were small and far from Equestria, who could tell who'd know of the place.

"Mother told me that they settled in Equestria because they wanted to escape the curses from a vindictive witch, so they raised a town deep in the wilderness far to the north, and that's pretty much it. We kept to ourselves, and there weren't really any tourists. The mayor said something about the princess once sending an envoy to see what were going on, but I dunno what happened. He didn't want to talk about it.

A-Anyway, Ormenthal were just fine until... E-Everything just... *whimper*"

Cover-up felt his pulse raise and had to stop himself for a little while to gather himself again.

"...Sorry, It's just that I don't know what happened. One minute I'm going inside to set a painting up on the wall, the next there's a lot of noise, and I have a building collapse on me. I didn't even have time to register what was going on before I woke up in the hospital. They said... O-Ormenthal is gone. Reduced tor rubble, and they couldn't find anypony. Just traces of dark magic everywhere."

He started shaking and had to put the cup down, or it would have ended up falling out of his hoof.

"I didn't know what to do. I was alone, everypony I knew were gone, and I was barely stitched together. So I just left when I was healthy enough to walk, and started drifting aimlessly. I came to Ponyville because of uhm... P-Personal reasons, and thought that perhaps if I could be more like you Equestrians, it would make it easier out here. And since you're friendly, I saw this was a friendship school and uhm... H-Here I am.

And uhm... I-If the tattoos are a problem, I can draw some new ones on me instead. I just really need to have some on me. Collapsing buildings leaves their marks..."

Hopefully she'd get that he were talking about scars, as he'd prefer not to show them if he could avoid it. They were pretty personal, and as his tattoos would prove, covered most of his body. Thank the grave warden that he had his ability so that he could at least pretend like they weren't there.

Starlight politely nodded every time Cover-up took a pause in his story. She then took a sip of her own cocoa and reclined back in her chair. "Hmm... Harrowmark... Ormenthal. I unfortunately have not heard of those places, though I grew up in Sire's Hollow, and, well... started my own town in the Northern Mountains before I got kicked out." She then took a great swig of her cocoa, as if to forget about her own dark past. "Maybe Headmare Twilight knows something about them. And she probably does," she said with a chuckling smile. "And no, your tattoos are fine, I understand," she replied. "Nopony likes looking ugly. Now, do you have a place to stay already? If not, I think--but I'll have to check again--we have some extra dorms that you can stay in. Technically I can't assign you a room until you are formally registered but I'm sure Twilight would understand your situation." She was a little surprised that she had to ask that--everything about his background and personality made him seem that he didn't already have a place.

OOC: I apologize for nearly forgetting this, @Blitz Boom. 

Edited February 18, 2019 by OptimisticNeighsayer

[Rising Dusk 27,514]

@Blitz Boom

Rising Dusk left Scarlet in an understandably grumpy state.  She needed to learn though that all cases were pretty and emotions needed to be kept in check.  There will be times she witnesses something terrible and that there are times to handle the backlash of them.  An officer can't let a criminal get to them as they poke and prod trying to find weaknesses to use against them.  At least Bash was being left behind to keep the two mares in check should Scarlet become to curious and not just keeping Lily behind a closed door.  Soon Tussle should also be returning from her mission of getting letters sent off to various authorities for aid.  A little Alicorn back up or advice would be nice, but doubtful.  Some Royal Guards could be helpful, but time is a bit short for them to assemble anything worthwhile.

It was time for the detective to learn something new though.  Rather surprised it took this long to find out he'd been referring to the workshop by the incorrect name.  He'd only mentioned it a hoof full of times.  So, Workshop 05 was actually his place of work before coming to Manehatten, mostly likely at Center Zero.  Would that make this one Workshop 06 then?  Or perhaps there was more to the name of these workshops than just the order one lives in them.  "I stand corrected," he affirmed with the large spider.

They're trip back to the workshop in question though was met with yet another obstacle.  Rising Dusk knew the voices before the door open.  Quickly using his magic to pull the swinging doors closed quicker to prevent Lily from hearing the noise at the front door to the O.M.I.  It was rather impressive so see the smaller pegasus able to push through the door with a larger earth pony wrapped around her torso to try and stop her.  He didn't need to do much detective work to figure Null wasn't as pleased as Void had hoped about the idea of Rising Dusk putting into her head that Null could fly again.  Not too surprised they could even open the door considering their nullification field didn't treat wards too kindly.  He'll need to bring up in the next meeting that they need to be more mindful of locking the door and not relying so much on the wards for lock downs.

Not skipping a beat, he addressed the sisters now baring his exit.  "Ladies, good timing," he smiled.  "This is my friend Felicia.  A sentient mechanical spider created by Molotov Boom," he introduced.  Depending on how much Void managed to tell Null, maybe showing the kind of work Molotov was capable of could help convince her his claims weren't so far fetched.  "She's pretty awesome," he channeled Scarlet for a moment.  "If you'd care to join us, I'm sure we can discuss your grievances," he offered, trying to squeeze by the small pegasus and get them to go with him to Molotov's.  "We're actually on our way to go see him now."

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@OptimisticNeighsayer

Vivid weren't deaf to the musical number not being perfect, but it were a four thousand year old piece that apparently had gotten several interpretations since then. That this pony made a few errors on something that to most likely seemed ancient, would be to nitpick, as it were honestly amazing that he even knew it in the first place. Besides, had she not enjoyed it anyway? The smile on her face as the number had played, and the sense of calm that she found rare in her life recently would say yes.

She found another smirk on her face as he began speaking, and mentioned his nervousness over moving this, and the legality of it all. It were amusing how little faith he had in her abilities, which were something that honestly tended to bug her, yet this pony didn't swing that in along with incredible distaste for her as a being. It changed things when you weren't viewed as some sort of freak or lesser being.

"I could move every pipe of this thing, and leave something else in its place, to ensure the walls wouldn't fall. But if what you're saying are true, and they intend to freshen this place up and present it as a historical site, perhaps you are right in it being best to leave it here. I simply didn't want it to just stand unused and rust away.

As for my relationship with the royals, it varies who I have spoken with. Celestia have gazed upon me once, as I delivered her a message, and her sister and I have met at times, when she wandered into my endless dream. Yet since awakening, I haven't seen her. Not that I did much ever since the mare sealed the door to my dreams shut either, but that is a conversation I will have with her in due time.

The Princess Twilight is one whom I am eager to meet, but I am currently forbidden to, and the rules of Shining Armor and Princess Cadence are to be followed. It's in my contract."

Her horn glowed a deep purple, and a small bauble of dark magic emerged in the air in front of her, which solidified into a rolled up parchment that began folding out to show a several meter long contract, written in small, dark letters, and at the end, signed in blood by her current masters. However, the part she wished to highlight were about halfway in, where the a small line would spell out what she had been speaking off.

*Who is to be contacted at any given time, can be chosen, restricted, or outright banned by the signed entities without the requirement of a reason.*

If he kept reading on, it were line after line of rules restricting every possible outcome to be either outlawed - in the sense of violence without it being an emergency - or her every action being something they could decide, up to and including following other parts of the contract. A small section added in case they specifically wished for her to be a little more hooves on, but knew she'd be restricted by the rules set about her not harming others.

"You will find that this contract is binding on a metaphysical level. I am quite literally unable to act against it, even if I lost all control over myself."

Rambling on, she'd roll the contract up when she were sure it were no longer being looked upon, though at the earliest when she were done speaking. Hopefully showing this would not cast a bad light upon her or her masters, though if needed be, she would defend it, and them. It were herself that had written this thing with the intent of it being airtight after all.

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

 

@OptimisticNeighsayer

"Nono, I'm... I'm okay. I have a room at the inn. They're kind to me there, and I make enough bits painting and such to cover it."

Honestly, he didn't want to settle in a new place in town right now. This school seemed like it might be fine to learn from, but being here constantly? Cover-up had grown up in an isolationist society. He couldn't handle being around that many ponies constantly. Besides, as he had said, they treated him well over at the inn. And by that he meant basically leaving him alone, and when seen, not try to interact too much with him, as Bubble Tea had told the others that he would prefer to go to them if there were something, and otherwise not be bothered too much. He liked how the innkeeper had taken into consideration how little the colt were comfortable with social interactions.

"Uhm, the headmaster you mentioned, Twilight... I-Is that Princess Twilight? I dunno how well she'd take it to see somepony from Harrowmark. It's... Well, full of some pretty dark magic, and I heard someone talk about her being a hero. Won't she... N-No, sorry. I didn't mean to..."

Cover-up fell silent and averted his gaze, whilst taking another small sip of cocoa. To think that he had just implied that the princess might actually meet him with hostility, in her own school. What mustn't Starlight be thinking about him after that?

"...Sorry to hear you were kicked out of your town..."

This would either be the right thing to say, or make Starlight angry, and get himself booted out. He didn't know, but he had to say something, and this were the only thing he could think of in the moment.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2/17/2019 at 8:26 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"I suppose so. It's all so new and different, learning about this. All I grew up with are herbal remedies, medicinal plants that have a lot of uses from making bandages to consumable drinks. Never once did I ever consider the possibility of seeing healing magic close up until recently."

"Or just being able to see this new perspective on medicine in general. Thanks for patching up that fracture. Didn't think that was there until you pointed it out."

"We use herbs and remedies too, but mostly for side effects, viruses, and small degrees of pain like headaches. They're quite effective in their own right.

And I'm honestly surprised you didn't manage to simply mend that wound yourself. Judging from the reaction your body had to my examination, it seems you're carrying a strong regenerative degree of magic. Have you not learned to harness it? I think I have a book about that sort of thing somewhere if you'd like? It pains me to see wasted potential like that."

Rosa in the meantime, listened in to what were being told, whilst the doctor curiously beckoned Omen over for an examination of her own. It seemed like the longma and the thestral had things to speak about regardless, so she might as well. Might be that Equestrian ponies had some differences to the Neighpoon equines they tended to have books on.

On 2/17/2019 at 8:26 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"The statue's been delivered and the trial is happening tomorrow. Scarcity thought you might be interested in these documents. Seems like she dug up some of Filigree's past and these birth certificates are part of it. Might this be more proof about your brother's identity? It is likely we might be see him tomorrow; you can meet and chat him up. I suppose he might have some questions about all of this when he finds out." 

"No, we have to... Find him before the trial. He needs... To know what's going on, before... Filigree tries to sway him."

Rosa slowly got up, winching in pain and groaning through the entire process, to a point where Hizhel made a few pills float out of her drawer and straight into his muzzle. Made him cough something awful, but right now she were his doctor, and she'd make sure he got the medication needed for now. Since it sounded like he were more pained after his process than first expected, she determined him to need pain killers. They should kick in in a few minutes.

"Tastes like... Sawdust. Can I see the certificates?"

(after he had a chance to glance over them, and finding himself disturbed, yet not surprised about how she had managed to get his own as well)

"A guard. It won't be... Easy to make him listen then. But... Thank you for bringing me this. It means... A lot."

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@EQ_Theta

Lyriel tenderly returned the hug the best she could. Unlike Nerzhei, she enjoyed this aspect of ponies

"You are a kind soul to nature, and the animals within Fluttershy. I could think of no better pony to call my friend. You are everything the animals speak off and more, which is no small feat considering most holds your name in reverence. For a time, I actually thought you to be another deity of nature, before it was clarified for me that you were indeed a pony. The sparrows found much enjoyment over that."

No ill will towards the small birds, but they could give off surprisingly sarcastic comments off if you were able to understand their words, and at the time, Lyriel had found herself to have become quite blushed over the whole situation. They meant nothing harmful with it far as she knew, it were simply how they were, and after the fact she could look back on it and admit to find amusement in it as well. Not everyday you had the chance to make a creature at least fifty times your size squirm awkwardly over mistaking a pony for a god, or woodland spirit at the very least.

"I hope the castle have fared well since we were last there. I would ask what problems they could cause in an hour, yet they are both resourceful beings. I'm certain that if they set their mind to it, this could be quite the spectacle to return to."

It were said in jest of course, as she didn't think they would do anything, but she didn't lie when she said they were likely capable, so if they had a reason, they could likely have done something significant whilst they were gone. Non-violent stuff hopefully.

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

 

@Moonlit @Zephyr / Karou

"To my awareness, they are able to do many things, and Discord himself is not innocent in the creation of other beings. We should praise ourselves lucky that their kind are not generally evil, but mostly wish to prank us. I shutter to think what would happen, were one of them to ever wish for our annihilation."

Even Discord when he ruled, had not been completely evil. He simply loved to be the ruler and to do with everything as he so pleased. For one such as him, the whole thing were likely no more than a game, wherein he made all the rules, and the players couldn't leave the game. If he had wished for nothing but destruction, everything could have been far, far more dire.

At the same time as he mentioned this, Cherish felt like she had grown pale from what Serenade said. Discord? The god of chaos himself? W-What were he doing here? She had heard others talk about him being back and perhaps helping around the place, but surely, if Serenade reacted like this, it couldn't be that easy. R-Right?

"S-Serenade, please, you n-need to calm down. You're uhm... S-Showing."

"I'm profoundly sorry for intruding, but I feel like I must inform you that it may not be him. Could be somepony else, so if it is a personal vendetta you hold against him, there may be no cause for alarm."

Serenade might find eventually that it were draconequus energy, though this garden had not been made by him. It were a collaboration between the female draconequus Anomaly, and the chaos-infused pony Lucid, though none present had been around to see them as they made something out here to pass the time, and seem friendly. Or perhaps she may not, though regardless, she might not find the intrusion from the evergrown to be welcome for varied reasons. Among them being that he were clearly listening in to at least some degree, even if Serenade stood a good deal of way from the other group.

"Again, I apologize my rudeness miss, but you sounded increasingly agitated over something regarding him, and I felt that you may wish to see that things were not as simple as it may appear. I can assure you, I did not listen in to most of what you said, but the name were said with what I can only assume is justified rage, which were hard not to hear for my rather sensitive ears."

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@Rising Dusk

"Pff, fancy bunch of bolts probably put together with magic. It'll break down like everything else."

Seeing as Void were currently stiff with a mixture of awe and confusion over the spider, Null managed to wriggle out of her stronger sisters grip and go over to push the spider on the face, as if it were nothing. An action which she assumed would end like it tended to with magical constructs: Felicia falling down. Instead the spider just looked at her, and then pushed the pony back on her forehead with the tip of one of her bladed legs.

"𝕐𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕗𝕣𝕒𝕞𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕟𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕖𝕥𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕔𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕠𝕣 𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕜𝕤 𝕡𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕣."

It was her way of trying to send a savage insult back, which seemed a fitting response to hurl back from being called nothing but a bunch of bolts, though it would be more effective against robots.

Seeing as she got a response back, and that Felicia weren't harmed by the effect of the pegasus, since she hadn't any magic in her construction, Null had some of the air taken out of the build up rage she had gotten blown up before Void and her had gotten here, but that didn't mean that she weren't going to confront him, and turned to face him straight on.

"So he can build machines. Whatever. Doesn't mean that you have the right to go over and just stomp around on something you know nothing about."

Her words were cold, but as tended to happen when she got too riled up towards somepony who didn't deserve it, Void interrupted. This time, by taking a grip in her sisters shoulders and starting to both drag her backwards and shake her a little.

"P-please just... He just wants to help."

"Help? Help?! How does it help to try and dangle hope over my head, when there is none? It's just another trap!"

"Stop it!"

This finally seemed to stun Null, as Void raised her voice to her sister and nearly shouted into her head with tears streaming down the side of her eyes.

"The detective have done nothing but try and help, and you keep pushing him away. For once, just try and trust that somepony wants to do something good for you big sis. P-Please..."

The gears in Null's head ran high as she glanced into her sisters sad face, and heard her give her basically a verbal slap in the face. One that she really meant too,  as her nervous stuttering had gone away for a time as she got the most emotional parts of the response out.

"J-Just look at what he can make. We've n-never seen anything like that work without m-magic, so how do you know he c-can't work with wings too? The o-officer trusts that he can, and he d-deserves better from you than being yelled at."

She hated having to scold Null. Her big sister had always been the one taking care of things. Making sure they got food on the table, kept healthy, somewhat educated, and first and foremost, stayed alive. To tell her off felt wrong to Void, because she loved her sister, and knew that the pegasus weren't truly angry about the offer itself, but rather, she were afraid.

Null feared hope. In part because it had been offered and taken from them so much during the years - and usually ended with at least one of them getting physically hurt - and in part because getting her hopes up and having it crushed had tended to almost destroy her mentally, to the point where she eventually just started to believe that there truly were no hope for herself, and had placed what little she had left in how Void's life could turn out. Being offered something she so fundamentally wished for like flight, were tugging on old strings for Null, and her fear over how it would turn out made her lash out. Increasingly so because she had actually started to place some degree of trust in Rising, and having him join the ones who preached false hope would feel especially harsh.

Whilst all of this sentimental stuff went on with them over the span of a few minutes, Felicia eventually just rose herself up on the tips of her legs, and wandered past them. She had no vested interest in their relationship, and they were in a hurry, so she wished not to linger and observe them anymore.

"W-We're following you, officer. Just l-lead the way."

Null wouldn't get a say in this, as Void lifted her sister up and put her on her own back. As Null were essentially filly sized, and Null were larger than normal, it weren't much of an issue carrying her around like this, and it would hopefully give Null a small bit of comfort. Not that the pegaus would show it, as she averted her eyes from all of them and sat down on Void's back whilst grumbling. Seems like she had resigned herself to following the group, which might prove to be the best case scenario.

"𝕎𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕨𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖. ℙ𝕣𝕠𝕔𝕖𝕖𝕕, 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕝𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕣."

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

"No that's pirates, duh! And there's totally cowboy pirates. They ride on sharks and robs seabanks."

From somewhere unseen, a drum riff to cement the joke made it's classic *badum tss* sound, and slowly faded into nothing.

"Pirate ninjas sounds fun too! What do they do? Hide in canons? Wear throwing parrots? Make their own language out of pure aaaaargh's?"

Quick as usual, they had now gone on to the next topic, and left the weirdness of the fruit fight from before in the past. How they hadn't been asked to leave yet or had somepony chase them with torches were really starting to talk about how jaded these ponies were. This dimension sure were weird.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I will respond to the sight with the appropriate awe and worship then."

Marley chuckled at yet another fun interaction between the dragon and himself, before starting to make his way out of the old building. It seemed now that he may finally get a true glance at who he were dealing with, and what size said dragon might end up being too, which were going to be important, in case a fight ensued. Not between them hopefully, though the information may well be worth it there too, but more in case they needed to strongarm their way out of some situation, in which case it would be good to know what his ally actually had of physical mass.

Heh, guess he'd get both a dinner and a show then. What a great day this were turning out to be.

When eventually they'd get out, and he closed the door behind them out of habit, he'd point further out towards the rundown part of town, in a direction that would lead them towards the protective barrier.

"If they have not since closed it down after the Canterlot Attack, there should be a walking trail to the outside if we follow that path. Allow me to speak with the guard if we encounter one, and I shall smoothen things out so he doesn't suspect we are sneaking around."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Fah'lina sat on a branch and looked over how the siren hunted with interest. Sure it looked mostly like what Serenade did, but the movements were quicker as Nada had less mass than the younger siren, and really, watching something else chase fish were just entertaining regardless.

Once the siren were done though, it was her time to show off, so the mimic dove in headfirst, aimed for the first fish she could see that were about the same size as her, and opened her maw wide.

The gaping mouth of the mimic embraced the fish as she swam across it, and help it down with the three rows of sharp teeth that lined both the top and bottom of her mouth, behind the typical critter teeth up front.

Poor thing didn't stand a chance as it were engulfed, knocked out during the process after it were gobbled up - which included Fah'lina having spouts of water more or less burst out of her gills like an underwater hose - and went on to be devoure, whilst the mimic in question swam up to the surface, and let out a small burp. She looked mighty pleased about herself, though one might wonder how it were physically possible for her to contain this, and only seem to bulge a little.

If anypony ever found the answer, it would end up being the same being who would be able to scientifically explain where Pinkie pulled her party canon from, yet both things seemed unlikely. Sometimes things were just unexplainable.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"Cowboy pirates? I thought they prefer to ride on dolphins."

"Everyone knows cowboy pirates ride on jellyfish, silly! And yes, pirate ninjas do hide in cannons."

A portal appeared before the three and a green unicorn with the cutiemark of a broken lightbulb stepped out. The portal then closed behind him.

"I was on a beach eating fries and a seagull ate one of my fries! Now I will take over your world so that the ducks will pay dearly!"

"BOOOOO! Worst acting ever!"

"Yeah! Your acting is even less original than Lucid's trick where he turned tables into fish!"

Lucid quickly looked over at Novia.

"Hey! That trick was very original!"

"I'm serious! I will take over the world and then I'll uh... probably be evil and stuff!"

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
"You'd better." Ruby simply replied, again her tone hinting just a bit about the humor behind the words chosen. She was more than glad to get to show a bit on what she's capable of, especially because she knew that Marley would most likely highly underestimate her based on her size, she was already planning what she would catch, maybe a bear, not because they tasted particularly good or anything, but because it would be bigger than Marley, so it would work as a not that subtle hint to not underestimate her. To his latter comment she just nodded, she had nothing to add.
---------------------------------
Nada watched curiously as Fah'lina hunted, she didn't really like to watch other creatures hunting or eating, because even though she did so herself, she didn't like to see animals getting killed, even prey, but she still watched the mimic to do it, because she really wanted to know how she did it. When Fah'lina had caught the fish and came to the surface, Nada hit her hooves together to give a little bit of praise to the mimic.

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

"This regenerative magic is fairly new, really," Sen turned to Hizhel, then examined the rest of his body. He thought about moving his hip to see if he could notice where the fracture was evident but it seemed like it's been dealt with quickly. It's like it was never there at all. "None of my kind grew up with magic and they have this really big anti-magic stance. Information on any kind of magic, healing or otherwise, is more or less unknown. The same could be said for me but ever since I gained this kind of magic, I never got a chance to learn about it. Maybe I'd like to have a look at that book."

As for Rosa's concerns about Filigree, it was a sound one that got both of the siblings worried. If Filigree was able to have he way long before they met and learned about the mine incident, then there might be a chance Stargazer could be swayed to support her. And if things don't go the way they hoped, they would then have to contend with Equestrian law. Who knows how many crimes they could be accused of when the story is spun in Filigree's favor. It gave them some pause, but with Rosa's current condition, they couldn't afford to rush into this.

"You need to regain your strength, Rosa. You weren't looking very good when we saw you come out from Lin's gate. We gave you some crude first aid treatment for your wounds but uh, I think I tore up your mask a bit. Sorry." Sen rummaged through his pack and pulled out Rosa's torn and smelly mask, accompanied with a sheepish grin.

"At least these documents confirm what we know," Lin added. "A bat pony, a guard, and Filigree's child. There's no way the Stargazer we met in Ponyville isn't the same one mentioned here. Let's rest up here for a bit and plan how we'll approach this. We still have an evening to wait out but if it makes you comfortable, we can leave early and hopefully run into Stargazer before he leaves for Canterlot. The trial starts at 9 am."

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

@Blitz Boom

"I'm sure Twilight and Nerzhei would have found something interesting. They probably a book they would discuss with each other for a very long time. I won't be surprised if they are having snacks right about now like a book club meeting. Those are fairly popular here! And... I was just thinking about what you mentioned, about the animals revering me. I don't know whether I should be feeling good about that or concerned. Having that kind of attention on me is a little daunting."

Though Fluttershy had issues about being nervous in a crowd, she never once had that issue among animals. She loves their company and honestly never saw them like ponies do. If there was an apt comparison for that, it would be a stage performance. She'd be fine if the spotlight was on her and only her friends were there to watch her. Once other ponies come in and a sizable presence is growing, that's when her legs lock up and the metaphorical butterflies in her tummy come out. The thought of that got the pegasus to slow her walk for a bit though she quickly returned to normal after clearing her mind.

Eventually, the castle was within view, the walk into town was a short one and with a quaint little town like Ponyville, navigating the streets was only difficult if the central square market was around. Thankfully, it wouldn't be until the weekends when they would show up. With no crowds to contend with, the pegasus led Lyriel into the castle and to Nerzhei and Twilight.

"We're back! How is everyone doing?"

[FanOfManyShows 396]

@Blitz Boom

Astal eventually made her way out of the train, waiting outside for Chow to catch up. "Are you excited as last time?"

"Not really, the excitement dies down dramatically after the first time here."

"Oh yeah, I've had that, weird that can happen."
Astral looked around, as if panicking a little.
"Why would Iron take so long?"

"Pretty sure he is just fine."

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

@Dji

"Subject for what?" He paused his step, looking to her.
"Why don't you just use somepony else for that? Because I'm not risking anything when I'm being called a 'subject'."
He resumed walking, and at this point Watts could notice he was on his way to the train, nothing to take notice of,
since there were many things nearby that he could be heading to.

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

@Blitz Boom

Iron was listening, right until Emerald mentioned the corpse digging,
and did a very visible double take as he wore a face of shock. "Her- your corpse?!"

"Yes, we kind of need it to do this."

"Well-" He paused, looking to Emerald while gesturing to her.. "Why doesn't she need to dig up hers?"

Sapphire sighed. "I had destroyed it while killing her so it's not an option." She looked up. "But nevermind that, we have to find those crystals, like she said."

"Actually, you won't have to go far, I have a few on hand, but all of them have magic in them already."

"Great, we can just go get those now then."

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

Warlock too his time getting over to the food, using his remaining hoof to eat it. Definitely used to not having legs by now.
"How long will it be before I get out of here anyway?" He asked in passing.
"Can't imagine it'll be short. But it'd be good to know what to expect. For me, that is."

===============================
Sure, he was a bit caught up in his haphazard speech, but being used to crazy things by now, he ignored the sphinx, though gave a few glances as he spoke.
But it was the axe that caught his attention, the runes would glow as the axe lifted up,
tilting a bit as it was off balance for a bit, but before long he got it balanced, and started spinning it, though not that fast, to be safe of course.
"Awesome."  He smiled and slowed it down, putting it upright. "Just what I was hoping for." He said with a smile to Benny.

[Rising Dusk 27,514]

@Blitz Boom

It was difficult not to be amused watching the interaction between Null and Felicia.  Not that he could even be sure she had bolts at all to be honest, but it would probably be rude to ask.  Such things you just didn't ask a lady, regardless of origin.  Even her attempt at an insult to the pegasus who just went to poke at the spider bot with her own insults.  Well, at least he thought it was an insult, but based on what he learned from Molotov in a short time, it was most likely an insult.  Targeting her missing wing to claim her frame was incomplete.  Kinda harsh, but not untrue.

Rising Dusk wasn't going to get much of a word in it seems as the altercation with the spider bot triggered something he, or Null for that matter, was expecting.  With the interactions he had with Void so far, he didn't think this outburst was something she was capable of.  And judging from the expression on Null's voice, it didn't happen often, or at all.  She should be applauded though to finally bring her older sister under hoof and give a verbal slap in the face.  He couldn't blame her with what he's heard so far about the darkness of this world they've had to experience.  Trust was a very fragile concept that was way more easy to break than build.  The detective has met his fair share of ponies with mottoes to trust no pony and you won't ever be disappointed.  In the same vein though, he could understand how that kind of negative attitude would be exhausting for the earth pony dealing with it day in and day out.  Especially when trying to settle into a new happy life in Ponyville

Remaining silent though, he let this family affair be between the two siblings.  Void was putting a lot of trust in him and in a pony she hadn't met, but Rising Dusk trusted him.  A lot of trust being tossed around and he only hoped it all worked out.  No, he'd make sure it would, with everything in his power.  It was also pleasant that Felicia remained patient, to and extent while this all happened as well.  Long enough anyways for Null to be defeated and placed on the larger sister's back for their trip.  He simply nodded to Void about following him and to Felicia who spurred them to move on from this.  Setting out into the city, this time more following Felicia than the other way around, just in case the spider bot got ahead of them and he needed to lead the sisters to the workshop himself.  Not quite sure how fast Void would move with that leg and a pegasus on her back.