open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

So the face that Stargazer had made were anger then? Okay, she had to remember that for another time. It might be important at some point, since she understood that if beings were angry, something had gone wrong, and she had to stop doing whatever she were doing to see if it were here. Many things that could be learned from that.

Sounded like there were a bunch of things to learn actually about why one would be angry too. Being interrupted, and Rosa apparently being somepony that you didn't want to be known to hang around with were seemingly reasons for it, though she didn't understand the last one. It sounded like it had something to do with his job, but she didn't understand what that were either, so perhaps that were why she didn't get this? Might have something to do with his boss? Ponies had judged her for working for Discord. Might be the same thing? She had to remember to ask another time, once Rosa were done talking with his brother.

Seemed like there were nothing else to do here, so Omen would follow Lin as they left he oddly silent shadow realm, and came back, just in time to see that Sen looked to still be fine, and Amethyst were next to a small sliver of diamond. had it come from the cluster? It seemed like this weren't what the others were talking about, so maybe. Long as it wasn't one of the many colored ones it were likely okay though. She had grasped that much about this whole gem situation at least.

As for Amethyst, she were about to go back and continue with Sen's neck and head when seemingly, the bunch of them had thought she were done. After only checking his two front legs.

"...Oh, alright, I suppose we can finish it here darling, but do take the vial with you, in case it shows to have grown elsewhere on you."

She would much rather have finished a complete check, but she supposed that if nothing had erupted during their trip to the mine, and his front legs were completely free of any signs of infection, he were likely fine. She'd still insist that they took the vial though, just in case it got necessary, and as such, she pushed it towards Sen and would not let them get anywhere before he had accepted it. One were better of not taking the chance.

Putting down the brushes on the table so that she could return them to where she had found them later on, once she no longer had guests, she smirked a little. It were honestly delightful to hear a group this random and strange were yet so knit together that they checked up on one another, and genuinely cared when one of them were in potential trouble. And by Celestia, Rosa most certainly were.

"Even if we assume that they will be lenient on him, considering how he helped ensuring that Filigree's most recent attempt at taking over the country failed, he would still be in possession of a wealth of information they'd want, as well as being from a spy from an enemy state. They don't let some like that merely go with any ease. And if the generals then takes interest and comes down to have their own attempts, it will merely draw out longer.

I would say that unless something spectacularly happens, you should not expect to see him no sooner than tomorrow.

If it is any consolidation though, the generals we currently have are not known to threat prisoners unfairly. A few generations back, and he would have potentially been whipped, but thankfully, General Star Missile have long since met his end, and his practices will hopefully remain buried with him."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Something for something. See? That's why I like ya Ruby. You know how the world works. So alright, you have a token on ya then to use if you have something to ask you think I'm holding back that's worth your time. I'd offer some info right off the bat, but let's be honest here, I dunno what you care to hear yet. Except for places to get stacks of bits. That's a given, eh?"

Hardly counted as hard hitting info though. They'd always go and aim for that sorta thing, that were pure business. The token here were more in case she had some questions outside of that, to sorta even things out. No idea if the mare cared enough to ever use that though. Guess they'd see down the line, depending on how long it'd take her to go use that coin pouch of hers to do... Something. Alicornification perhaps? Spicy would ask, but no way were she gonna get an answer to this one.

They'd soon after get to the wagon, and Spicy would unlock it and present Ruby with the entrance to it, in case she wanted to lock up her well earned coin in there. She'd find several coffers and hidden drawers where she could stash this, provided said ones weren't already used by something. One coffer in the corner were completely empty and had a big, sturdy lock on it that might do the trick.

"Need some privacy to pick a good hiding spot in here?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

"I didn't intent to confuse you, but fine, I will try and speak more plainly if we meet again. Farewell."

With that, Onache turned around and flew back into the desert. When she knew they couldn't see her face anymore, she rolled her eyes and let out a large sigh. Communicating with this one were going to be a troublesome matter, yet sadly an unfortunate necessity. Much as she hated to admit it, she were currently envying Thorax for his simpler mind and generally friendly attitude even before he were reformed. It would have made situations like this a whole lot easier to get through, but oh well. Perhaps if he accepted the olive branch she were handing him, they could discuss some pointers in how to deal with these kinds of situations, loathe as she were to ask for help.

Meanwhile with the other two, Berry cast some glances behind her as they wandered off, to make sure the queen didn't turn around and start ramming back at them to strike, but it seemed like there weren't heading anything their way anymore, so they were apparently in the clear.

"This was about the weirdest start of the day ever. Wanna do something safer and more normal? Like juggle fire or fight bears?"

It were meant as a joke, but Berry wasn't kidding. This whole situation were nothing she had expected would happen when they had gone to the desert area. Frankly she sorta wished it had been The Conspiracy that were there instead. At least there she had some idea what to think of. This whole thing though? Big 'ol blank, but thankfully they seemed to be done with it for now, so it'd be fine. Probably.

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@Moonlit

When Ziggy took her head back in again, her mane were a back-swept mess with stray hairs pointing out everywhere, and all the hair on her face seemed to have been pushed down as well from the constant pressure of the wind. That said face were not full of dead insects too were pretty weird though. You'd think all of these hours something would've been squashed on her face.

"Hehe, I can totally feel I need it too. I'm all giddy and ready to go *eeeeee* all trip long! Ehehehe."

Ziggy's energy level were starting to go up into infectious vibes again, so she really needed to open up the pill bottle and take her medication before she threw caution to the wind and started to gallop in place or something similar.

Two small, orange pills were ingested, downed down with a bit of water from a small pouch of it Ziggy had in one of her pockets - the two small gulps needed took about half the water in it - and then stood around all jittery for a minute, and then her energy just crashed out of nowhere, and she got weak in her knees, resulting in the zegasus having to take a seat for a bit. Some strong stuff she'd been given.

"How's your book?"

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@Lucid_Nightlight

"Hey! I would never do this!"

You literally tore a pony apart once.

"She startled me! And I put her back together again, jeez. Besides, that was just a guard, this here's like... My dad."

Whom you once proposed to.

"Stop reading my history, snail face!"

During all of this, the serpanther didn't move, even when poked. Not until Anomaly rolled her eyes - I saw that - and snapped her tail, causing him to be briefly engulfed in a see-through green mist that oozed out from the top of her head. After it had pulsated around him for a few seconds, it would dissipate in the wind, and the serpanther would slowly open his eyes, and look into the sky above them.

"...I am not supposed to be here."

His view were interrupted by Anomaly, who put her head close in front of his. She had a line of chains in her mouth, as she were currently eating his bindings.

"Drama queen you, of course you are. Hey everypony, say hi to Zhu. Don't mind if he stares lots. He's looking at your futures. Spoooooky."

He weren't right now, but he may soon enough, and what things he may see then. Potential futures were nearly infinite the more complex a creature were, and draconequui were if anything complex, and controlled mostly by impulse. It made for many varied, potential futures. Well, for some of them at least. Not every draconequus were all that complex once you sifted through a few centuries of goofing around.

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@Sweet Scoop

On 6/7/2019 at 3:25 PM, Sweet Scoop said:

"Um...could you speak like a normal pony, sir?"

"Haha, yes, of course. Alo- I, shall endeavor to try, madame."

Alonsus didn't take any offense to what she said and simply smiled as he responded in a jovial tone, and with a bit of a hearty laughter in his voice. This mare were far from the first to say that they considered the way he spoke odd, or that he reeked of overconfidence, yet really, he could not disagree with them, as this were true. His way of speaking were not the norm, as were the confidence that nearly oozed from his being, yet this were how he carried himself.

It were as they had said many times in the self help classes he had to attend as part of his parole: If you don't have confidence in yourself, nopony else will either. To many he had just taken that far too literal, and had gotten to the point of sounding obnoxious to many. It were one of the issues why it were hard for him to take employment anywhere, along with his criminal record, which anypony who'd consider hiring him would have to look at, yet Sloppy Joe's were a place known for allowing employers who were a bit problematic elsewhere, and give them a fair chance to show they knew what they were doing.

The usual barista Berry for example, were a conspiracy nut, whilst their chef had gotten some permanent face and body wounds after a shark attack and gotten kicked out of the guards for a violent episode following a depressed drinking streak. Neither were wanted many placed, but Single Straw - their boss - had given them a chance and gotten some good, thankful workers out of it.

Whilst he had been thinking on this, Alonsus had gotten to work making sure the order were fulfilled as the mare requested, and served it up with a smile and positive attitude, though the way she were standing right now made it seem like she mostly wished for him to not speak to her ever again. A request that he frankly wouldn't be able to comply with, since they still needed to finish the purchase here. The employers here weren't allowed to take bits from customers wallets for... Varied reasons. Straw had some former ponies here who had made it necessary for the aging stallion to institute that rule.

"That will be three bits, and may your day be merry."

Berry said something like this often to customers, but she usually had the charisma to sell it well. Alonsus didn't always.

21 hours ago, Sweet Scoop said:

"Um. What's good here? Food?"

"There is a lot who likes the Ginger-Root Stew.."

The low voice would come directly from behind the maid, where an earth pony mare would stand and look at the second in line at the counter.

Long Stare were likely the most normal of the ones working here, but she had a thing that made her a nightmare to most other places: She were extremely quiet. Not as in she didn't sing or something, but as in her every movement rarely gave off a sound, and for some reason she were surprisingly easy to lose track of. Most that had worked with her before in other places or this, had distanced themselves from whom they most often referred to as *a living ghost*, and since she were a little shy and didn't like to interrupt anypony, she'd follow whoever she wanted to talk to and wait until there were an opening before addressing them. Mostly this resulted in her either scaring whoever she were trying to talk with, or surprise them when they turned around to find that there were somepony there.

Storm would have seen Stare around before as she dealt with deliveries of pastries to this place, as the mare were a server at this place. Nopony were really sure why though. Her house a few rows from the edge of town were paid well for, she dressed nicely, and the gem around her neck were certainly not cheap. Clearly, she had money somewhere, as this job didn't pay all that well, but how much or where from wasn't known. She tended to not really speak to that many outside of work, and just generally kept to herself. Best offer any had these days were that this job was to help her get some social interactions with others, though it were somewhat difficult considering her silent approaches. It had been worse though. When she started here, she wouldn't talk to anypony before she got addressed by them, so it were going in the right direction at least.

That being said, the maid would be highly unlikely to have taken notice of Stare before the low voice she always spoke with had popped up behind her, and given her a recommendation as to something that were good to eat here. Having looked at the maid, Stare certainly thought hat a hearty meal like this were the sort of thing that would be good for her. Plus it were rather good. Chop Chop often asked Stare to taste to see if it were good, whenever he tried something new, and it had been great the last time she had tried it.

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@Rising Dusk

2 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

 "More akin to a top that is slowing down.  Each day the sisters give the Sun and Moon a push to keep them in motion.  To the common folk in Equestria, it just looks like they raise them at dawn and dusk." 

"Your nation must be truly great when your rulers can do such a thing. I... Would like to see them one day, and watch the sun be pushed across the sky."

Wisp hid a small blush as she said the last part, realizing how stupid it must have sounded. Equestria were a long way from Harrowmark, so it would not be an easy trip, and what were to wait for her there? Seeing the sun rise in a place she had only ever heard through old family stories that were likely no longer true? It seemed like such a silly idea to even entertain.

Some from her country were likely needed to go there though. Diplomats wanting to make new ties, even from countries far away, and their queen would surely wish to meet the stallion who had not just stopped the herald of Suusha, but also released the priestess if Viz'nay, to once more give them hope of a peaceful end. Higher ups like that were likely to take advantage of old maps and teleportation to find where Equestria were and make contact, not her. She were just a villager.

Yet... There were what the mayor had told her to consider, as well as her own want to see the country where her family had once moved away from, though why she had never understood. The olden tales had made Equestria sound like a mostly good place compared to Harrowmark, so why her great great grandmother had not simply convinced her husband to stay there instead of following him, she would never understand. Nor why she did not leave later, or warn others that they had to, before it became much harder with the disappearance of Viz'nay, and the rise of Twisted.

Some things were just lost to the past she guessed... *sigh* She had a lot to think about here, and the past were but a small part in that, yet most important of all were to ensure Rising got through their town safely, and without issue, as the road he walked lead them towards the festivities. One could hardly blame him for that really, not when there were many there to shower him with well deserved praise.

And praise him they did, from the second he entered their vision, they were almost falling over themselves to bow, kneel, or just outright clap enthusiastically, whilst all saying their varied versions of *Thank you, great one*. One of them - an elderly crone with a large scar on her cheek, looking like a tooth mark - came over and hesitantly put a hoof on his shoulder and with tears running from her eyes said "Praise you, for bringing her back*.

Thistle herself were hovering on a pedestal across from the pyre as they got near, soaking in all that were happening, next to the mayor who seemed to have gotten some ratty, yet presentable clothes forth for the occasion. Something which to Equestrians would be about 150 years back in fashion. If there ever came trade deals between the countries, fashion designers and cloth vendors of any kind were gonna have their work cut out for them.

The mayor took a swig of a large bottle of something that even from a distance smelled like butter and old raspberries, and got ready to speak up, when Rising addressed Thistle with a risen hoof and he fell silent. To some extend, all of them did, as they parted to let him and Wisp have an uninterrupted path ahead to see the high priestess, and bothered him with tearful cheers and thanks no more.

Thistle made contact with the dirt and just looked at Rising, raising no hoof or anything, and having a neutral look on her face as she appraised him. Wisp felt like crawling away from that, as the high priestess were an awe inspiring, and somewhat intimidating creature to be focused on in her eyes, yet she remained there, as the seconds ticked on.

"𝕊𝕠, 𝕪𝕠𝕦'𝕧𝕖 𝕒𝕨𝕠𝕜𝕖𝕟, 𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕤𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕣?"

The voice were neutral, and the voices around them went silent, as the villagers looked on confused and uncertain of what were going on. Even the foals, who were more inclined to make noise, would be quiet and just watch on.

"𝔾𝕠𝕠𝕕. 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕤 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕞𝕚𝕤𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕪 𝕗𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕤 𝕙𝕖𝕝𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕙𝕠𝕟𝕠𝕣."

A smile crept unto the priestess's face, along with a warm glow in her eyes that seemed to show her being actually happy about something for the first time since Rising had met her. Around them, the crowd tension melted away, and soon after the festivities were once more underway. Wisp too were relieved, and let out the breath she had held as panic had entered her heart about the priestess being unhappy about something here. Praised by Viz'nay, it had not been so.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"I envisioned him as a wise old pony that talks like a fortune cookie."

Novia spoke up.

"Why can't you be a wise old pony that that talks like a fortune cookie?"

"If you can tell the future then, how will you react when I do this?"

Lumen threw picked up a rock and threw it at Zhu and then waited.

"Did you get my letter?"

Edited June 9, 2019 by Lucid_Nightlight

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

"Oh, we aren't finished yet?"

"I'm sorry for the interruption. Please continue, Amethyst."

Sen noticed Amethyst sliding a vial towards him, the kind that they had used to save others from complete cystalization from days ago. How they all got roped into this still had him wondering how Filigree managed to send a crystal over to his village. Perhaps he'll get a chance to ask if they ever catch Filigree again. Right now, Sen went back to lying prone on the table. Fortunately, he didn't go about moving everything back to where they were so as to not undo the whole set-up. Amethyst has been a good host and it wouldn't be good of them to mistakenly break something. 

Lin was willing to sit by and wait until the procedure is finished. She has been enjoying the tea lately and Sen still has yet to finish his cup. As they didn't have a lot to do, they were content to stay a little longer. 

"Rosa wouldn't be done until tomorrow? That's a long time to be asking someone questions. And even if they're done with him, I can only guess they guards will be looking for us as well. If they already know about his past, whose to say they'd be wondering why we sympathize with him. For all we know, we might be kept here too." 

There was a concerned look on Lin's face, bordering on scared. As much as she would want to fight this, she couldn't go against a large, well-armed group of guards and Sen wouldn't last long fighting them. Amethyst's words on generals treating prisoners better didn't hold much weight but it wasn't the mare's fault. Its just that they wouldn't really mean anything until she saw it for herself. Considering what might happen, Lin wasn't sure if she wanted to know if that claim was true.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby just nodded to the first comment, not having anything she cared to know at this moment. 

She stepped in the wagon "Actually I think you should know where it is so you don't get hurt accidentally." she stated "Because like I told you, I have a way to make simple locked things lot more secure." she put the bag in a coffer and locked it, then taking a fancy looking gem from her box, it was just a gem, but she needed to make it look like she was using it so that she could avoid unnecessary questions from Spicy. She put the gem against the lock and muttered something that was either other language or just too quiet to be understood, before putting the gem back to the box. 

"Now if any pony or creature other than me tries to open that, they get a very painful experience, and if they attempt to break it, it will most likely be lethal." "a security spell, I assume you are familiar with them, used to seal treasuries and other such things."

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"Actually I'd like some information." Nada said "I'd like you to tell me about any other creatures that have appeared since the banishment, and if you could also tell what their relations are with ponies, and if there's anything special about them." "And please, could you tell what that Changeling thing was, what kind of creatures are they?" 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Catpone Cerberus

"One of them magical bear traps, eh? I haven't seen that sorta thing used in ages since, y'know, they're massively illegal. If anypony starts asking around, let's just say it's a snapper trap. If it's a guard, they approach it carefully and react on the pain, and if it's a thief, then eh, we bury him and move on."

Wouldn't be the first time she had to go ahead and do that. Well, sort of. Usually she made sure they got set on fire or something instead. She kept a few things with her that could be used in a pinch far as she recalled. if not, the area could sometimes make it easier if say, there were bears. Ponyville might have a lot of them big predators on a leash, but that wasn't the case most places, and a bear were a bear. It wanted meat, and if it could get an easy meal, it'd go for it in her experience.

But enough about that. Pretty sure that weren't gonna be something they had to worry about, and she sure weren't gonna poke around at that lock, that were for sure. So, time to saddle up and be on their way.

"Alright, we seem ready to get going. Let's get on our way and see what's waiting us out in that big ol' world."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Honestly I dunno what were back then, but uuuh... We had Discord and a few other draconequui show up, those have been absent for a while.The evergrown are also- No wait, they didn't show up until like, 600 years ago, After your time.

Let's see... The princess made contact with hippogriffs and kirin too, which haven't really gotten along with our kind for ages, so that might count? Dragons too, but you'd know those I bet.

Hey right, there's the one that made this desert: A sphinx. Ever seen one of those? They're like huge cats with wings. Most of them are pretty bad news whenever stories of them have popped up. The one who made this likely had some sorta ulterior motive too, but at least seems to have moved on for now, so that's good.

I swear though, no kidding here, right? I were talking to somepony at the coffee shop earlier who swore to have seen a male sphinx flying with the Royal Guards. Man we had a good laugh at him for saying that. I mean really, every story about them includes invading countries, keeping slaves of every kind of creature you could think off, and their mythical city are supposedly full of the riches and knowledge they've taken from around the world. And he wanted us to believe that one of those were getting along with the guards? A real riot, lemme tell ya.

Heh. Anyway, I think those are the ones that comes to mind right now. I'm pretty sure there's more weird ones that've popped up, but not everything's talked about. Some are pretty hush hush until some sort of diplomacy have gotten up and running with them, and they can showcase it."

Berry were more than happy to share what she knew of the varied creatures, but some she weren't sure about whatever or not were new, some she new weren't, but they hadn't historically gotten along with, and then there were a bunch that she hadn't a clue about. Just small rumors of weird creatures that she couldn't put a name to, mentioned in passing conversations or drunk tales. Didn't seem substantial enough for this.

"Changelings are pretty easy to explain. They're bug ponies, who lives off draining other beings of emotions. Most ponies think it's just love, but I know that some other countries have others who eat other stuff, like joy, or sadness.

Basically they're parasites, and once they suck you dry of emotions, you might end up in a cocoon to be converted into one of them. They're usually black with holes in them though. That weird sight back there are a new evolution on them that've gotten forth with one called King Thorax. Reformed changelings like that are whole, and doesn't eat emotions because they share them with eachother. Pretty weird, but they're safer like this. More colorful too.

You might see a drone like that sometimes in Ponyville. They're the size of regular ponies, and not big with horns like their royalty. Bad history between your kinds though, so uh... Keep an open mind to weird stares I guess?

Also, I'm not entirely sure if the reformed ones can still do this, but normal changelings can shapeshift with magic. Really hard to make out who is one unless you notice something's off about their behavior, or they run into anti-magic. Honestly it's best to not think about it, or you'll start going coo coo from thinking everypony you meet might be a changeling."

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@EQ_Theta

"No no, it's okay dear. Your front legs are clean, which would be the easiest place on infection, and since nothing happened when you were near the mine, I'm sure it's nothing. Just take the vial with you in case something does happen. It will clear it up without much issue."

Amethyst appreciated that the two of them were willing to remain and let her finish, but the more she thought of it, the more meaningless it really seemed. There would have been warnings at this point more than likely, and if not, they had both this vial and Shrimp that could take care of the issue. There were no real need for her to stand and make Sen feel uncomfortable by prying through his scales and brushing his hair, beyond a minor want to please her inner filly, and her want to carelessly brush the hair of a new doll. A silly indulgence she hadn't listened to in many years, but times such as this did bring up that old, joyful feeling once again. It were honestly rather delightful to experience now and again.

"And really dear, I doubt that the guards will apprehend you. Spies are known to take advantage of those who doesn't know better, and manipulating them into gaining what they want. The guards would more than likely simply think you taken in by his tricks, and let you go with a stern warning. At worst you may be questioned for a bit and need to see a psychologist for a few sessions, but the threat here is mainly to your friend.

While every country uses spies, there are still a stigma against spies from other countries, and several guard rules about apprehending ones working for Equestria's enemies. As mentioned, Rosa will have some leniency for trying to save Equestria, but the family ties, as well as his work, will mean that they will have a lot of questions to ask, and most of them repeatedly to see if his story changes. They will also need to confirm certain things he will undoubtedly say, to make sure whatever he is lying or telling the truth. Such things takes time. even if the generals does not come in to ask more specific questions.

A salvation may be there for him if he can provide additional information on how the spy system works where he is from, and help dismantle it, but it really depends on who he used to work for. Some spy agencies and countries are more important than others, so depending on how things goes, trying to dismantle an inefficient organisation may not be worth much. Whatever things he have caused also have to be weighed up contra what he have given and can give, but I cannot say for sure what may happen dear. I can only speculate, and share what I am aware about from these sorts of things, based of common knowledge.

I do wish your friend the best though. He have done a great service, and worst case scenario, I'm sure that they will have him placed in one of their numerous rehabilitation programs to make him into more of an asset for society, rather than keeping him locked up forever."

The mare sat down and took another sip of her half-empty cup of tea. It helped a weary mind, and thinking of what may or may not happen to the bat pony were something which seemed to cause that particular emotion to rise in her. Funny how one such as this could have so many beings caring for his well being honestly. Not something she would expect a spy to gain, unless it were won through lies and duplicity, though what she knew off at least seemed to check out as him being genuine.

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@Lucid_Nightlight

The rock would fly towards Zhu, but stop mid air and be thrown right back at the one who threw it, guided by the wind magic that Zhu possessed.

"A millennia have nearly passed since I first opened my eyes, and gazed upon the tapestry of time. I have seen far more than any pony will, and been forced to bear witness to calamities you couldn't fathom. Ends that needed to be prevented, yet also balanced, to not tip the scales."

He turned his head and glanced at Lucid, with his golden eyes nearly glimmering in the sunlight, as seconds ticked by.

"I see your joys, and your sorrows if you continue with your mate. The loss that crushes your spirit, and the rampage which seals your path. Such carnage that comes from the harbinger of the thing from beyond beyond the plains...

Heed my words: You would do best in not celebrating what you thought could never be yours, with the one who dances with the damned."

"See? He's all kinds of weird, but its pretty fun to guess what he means anyway. And when. I'm still waiting to see the flying banana-owls."

Zhu's eyes fell on Lumen, and his slit pupils seemed to grow thinner in surprise.

"She won't allow you to die, pony from another land. Age, nor sickness will take you, and she will ensure that you will forever be bonded, though in some timelines I see you question if that is good or not."

"I think he's saying *happy wedding day* in weirdo words."

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

Lumen would catch the rock and attempt to eat. This wouldn't work since he's still just a pony. A little eccentric, but still a pony.

"I will one day be able to taste this rock."

Lucid looked at Zhu and asked him some questions.

"Oh! What else can you tell me? I wanna know more cool stuff!"

There were things Lucid was not really aware of. The whole thing about the stick wasn't as true as he thought it was. And what Lucid thought he was, he really never was at all. The only sign of the truth of who Lucid truly was came from his silly nature. He never was like most ponies, he was always different and full of surprises. Was it really the stick that made him capable of all these things or was a matter of placebos and self-fulfilling prophecy?

"When is the chocolate fountain going to be here?"

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

Amethyst’s words calmed the longma siblings; although Sen didn’t look like he was concerned but deep down, he was afraid of being detained longer in Canterlot. He had once been there, run in for vagrancy but that was when he was a lot younger. A lot more intimidated by the world and especially by figures of authority he did not recognize. How he managed to get in that situation had a lot to do with his naivety. Between his younger self and how he is now, there are still some traces of fear lingering below the surface, something he would keep to himself. Throughout the exchange, he kept quiet, getting up from the table and finding a seat to sip his tea while putting away the vial in his saddle bag. 

As for Lin, her tea had cooled down a lot more for her to finish sipping all of it. While she would like to drink a little more, she was hesitant to do so and only placed her cup on the table. 

“Rosa said as much but the guards will certainly look into the information he’s providing them. I believe he wants to turn his back on his old life as a spy but the words of two nobodies from out of town likely won’t hold weight. I guess that gives Rosa some small comforts but it will be much better if he doesn’t get locked up. I’d hate to imagine him wasting away in a cell.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, what was that you mentioned just now? A, uh… psychologist?”

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade closes the book, the title De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium printed in gold letters "I've read it before, but it's good to keep my knowledge fresh" She looks out the winder, "I figure it's another 4 hours to Baltimare, then a quick Pegasus cab ride to my parents place." Serenade puts the book away, "I'm going to get some sleep, I suggest you as well"

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Protecting one's things was illegal? the system was even more stupid than Ruby had thought...not that it mattered to her if it was legal or not, it was what she used to protect her treasure, and that wasn't going to change. "Protecting illegal money with illegal means, it's only fitting.".  When it came to the declaration to leave, to her usual manner she just nodded as response.

------------------------------------------
"Evergrown, Kirin and a sphinx." Nada repeated "Others I think I have at least heard of, but I can't be sure, since my memory isn't really serving me the best." "I may have even read something about sphinxes at some point, but I'm not sure." "And you told about Discord when we first met." "And changelings are just weird ponies with shape-shifting abilities." she scratched her head with her hoof and let out a sigh "There will be lot of reading if I ever want to catch up with everything."

 

[Rising Dusk 27,514]

@Blitz Boom

"One day, perhaps," the detective replied simply.  The future was always difficult to predict to any sort of reliable degree, but Harrowmark should have enough going for them right now to take a few steps in the right direction.  Maybe not Equestria at first with how far away it was, but foal steps with their neighbors would be a good start.  Right now though, Rising Dusk himself was already wanting for home.  All the memories he made while fighting Twisted in the swamp, all the foul, vile, rotten corrupted magic weaves that plagued the area would be with him forever.  After a time, he could dull the memories to help keep the detective's sanity intact.  A hot bath and visit to his local spa for a massage should just do the trick.  And a vacation, a much needed vacation.

Sadly it looked like Rising Dusk was interrupting the party with his appearance as the focus was all brought onto him.  It wasn't hard to tell by their reactions that any amount of his words would be able to get them refocused on the festivities instead of him.  There looked to be plenty of good food and entertainment for the foals, no need to waste it on the detective from another country.  Reality didn't really work that way though.  The citizens of Harrowmark had just been freed from a tyrant, it was just pony nature to be thankful.  The unicorn giving the villagers a warm smile and a friendly wave.  Being referred to as a great one was a little over the top, but with how old fashioned the rest of the place was, he could accept it.  Luckily his recovery was tired based and not sore based.  So, the patting from the elders and others wasn't too painful, minus his shoulder which only caused a minor wince from the unicorn.  His smile didn't falter though.

Finally he made his way though the cheering party ponies to reach his ghostly companion, who seemed rather neutral about his arrival.  A very stark contrast to how the rest of the village was behaving as a tense silence fell over the celebration.  Reminded of the conversation the pair had about death and probably the general vibe the specter got when trying to talk to the listening unicorn.  Pay back perhaps?  Rising Dusk stood before Thistle and returned her neutral expression, "Yes."  A simple reply.  He was pretty use to dealing with such expressionless conversation via way of Bash, but unlike Thistle, who also spoke mostly in grunts.  Cocking his head slightly to the side as the neutral tension continued to build but the specter finally broke it.  His head still tilted, he smiled back at her before straightening back up.  "It appears my deeds have been mildly exaggerated," the detective expressed, commenting on his treatment and worship thus far since waking.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Catpone Cerberus

"Yeah, you're right on that. Would be far easier back in the day, but nooo, some guards just had to get too greedy, and got what they deserved. Sad stuff that the rest of us now have to listen about this sorta stuff being *immoral and vile* because of that. A darn load it is in my mind, but that's the law sometimes. Real dumb."

Spicy ranted as she hooked herself securely to the wagon and started walking. You'd think all the stuff in there would make this impossibly heavy to move around, but that's where it really showed to be a good investment to have several enchantments in the wagon to mitigate that sorta thing.

Cost a lot more than she had been happy about to make sure it were secure and wouldn't just fizzle out or cause the whole darn thing to float,  but she couldn't argue against the results. Especially when carrying heavy stuff around like say, several bags of buts, gold bars, or statues.

"Alright, we got a good walk ahead of us girlie, so let's get cracking.

Feel free to keep that necklace of yours a bit loose too. Less we need to deal with the local wildlife, the better. Unless you want a skin for the cold days? We got a knife that can be used for that sort in there if you fancy a whack at it."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Berry went over and put a hoof as close to Nada's shoulder as she could reach, with a reassuring smile going over her generally, half-crazed expression.

"Hey, chin up Nada. You ain't the only one who doesn't know what's going on with the olden races and us. Been within the last few years that most of these sorta connections have been made by Princess Twilight, and they always keep striking from out of nowhere to folks, and most still haven't gotten used to things.

Dragons and changelings especially are a weird couple of allies that there's still hostility towards, even if the law keeps them safe. Trust me, getting used to these sorta things takes time for all of us.

I for one believe that knowing goes a whole lot of way in that, so later on, I can go find some books for you that talks about these sorta creatures. Might help getting you sorted on what to think, and what you're dealing with?"

The mare let go of the siren and would wander in front of Nada, walking backwards so that she could both see and hear what her new friend here had of plans about this approach. If this didn't tickle her fancy, Berry were gonna think of something else, as she wanted to help Nada get caught up on things, and settle more comfortably into society.

Of course, she'd also educate the siren in how to avoid getting caught up by The Conspiracy, but that were a given. Couldn't have her new friend end up on some table with tracking devices drilled into her teeth now, could she?

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

 

@Rising Dusk

"𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕓𝕦𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕦𝕥𝕙 𝕠𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕙𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟𝕗𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕒 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕡𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕤𝕚𝕩 𝕙𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕤, 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕝𝕤𝕥 𝕕𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕡𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕣 𝕓𝕒𝕔𝕜 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕪 𝕘𝕠𝕕𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕤. 𝔹𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕜𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕒𝕤 𝕒 𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕡𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣 ℍ𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕠𝕨𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕜, 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕔𝕙 𝕨𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕜 𝕗𝕠𝕣. 𝔻𝕚𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕤𝕦𝕔𝕙 𝕒𝕟 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕥 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕞𝕖𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕔𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟?"

Thistle gave the stallion a questioning look, somewhat surprised that he were questioning all of this. Perhaps it were mere modesty? An admirable trait for many, but this were his entry into their history books. The stallion who turned the darkness back. Praise for his actions leading to this moment were something that should be praised, and Thistle had openly encouraged it to the already excited townsfolk, as well as made sure to have it be added to the message that several carrier ravens were already out delivering, about the fall of Twisted.

Were rising to ever take a tour throughout the country at some later point in time, she had no doubts that he would find statues in a not so infrequent manner, risen here and there to mark the people's adoration of his actions. A little much to him maybe, but if he knew what it had meant to live under Twisted's rule for the past six centuries, whilst also seeing the light of their country more or less ebb out, he might understand the call for celebration. These were details that she would share with him once they had a more private setting to talk in, along with some other, lesser good information, which she did not want anyone else to hear.

"𝕎𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕦𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕔𝕦𝕤𝕤 𝕝𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕣, 𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕤𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕣.  𝔽𝕠𝕣 𝕟𝕠𝕨, 𝕨𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕣𝕪 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕝𝕠𝕔𝕒𝕝 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕨 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕠𝕕? 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕓𝕖𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕚𝕥'𝕤 𝕘𝕠𝕠𝕕."

Rising would find it easy to get to anything he'd want, as the crowd would spread like a school of salmon being approached by a shark if he seemed to be looking for anything.

The mentioned brew would be a pear-like, alcoholic beverage, but there were also water, and some kinds of sweet juices based off watermelons and pumpkins. Not an easy task to grow many off around here, but what they had were certainly worth opening up and squeezing the juices out of in their eyes.

It also had the same sugary substance to it as Rising had already consumed, to even the taste some, and he would likely still prefer not to be told what it were made from.

As for food, he could find basically everything. Stews, bowls of hay mixed with hot spices, candy of assorted kinds like berry-coated wickerflies, pears in varied dishes, as well as raw in bowls, and even a few apples here and there, though of a sour variant, rather than the red, sweet ones that many preferred.

Apples were not easy to grow around here either, so what little they had of them came from another, somewhat nearby town, and the only ones they could really grow were the sour ones. One of the reasons why the juicy, sweet pears that they were able to grow in abundance were the main fruit in this, and several other towns *near* them.

Before he would be able to get far though - if he even felt like looking at some of the food or drinks - the mayor would approach him, wearing his finest and taking Rising's hoof with both of his front ones, to give him a short, enthusiastic hoofshake. The stallion would have more muscle to him than it looked like from the strength in said shake, but hopefully it wouldn't be a bother, as the mayor intentionally went for the hoof that were not connected to Rising's bad shoulder, as he had seen the wincing before.

"It is a grand time to see you out and about already, Mr. Dusk. The high priestess were not certain how long it would take for your illness to settle, and our medic thought it may take you days to gain the strength to walk. Please tell me, are you feeling well? Have Will-O taken care of you properly?"

Speaking if the mare in question, Rising would find that she would get a visitor. A raven flapping down not a few seconds after the mayor had spoken, and landing on her back.

It were seemingly male, and a big one of it's kind to boot. Around twice the size they'd be seen in Equestria, with somewhat muddy dark feathers, compared to the more shiny onyx feathers of the regular kind, which were not hard to see as he stood there with his claws sunk into the non-flinching Wisp, and poked at the back of her head with his dark beak.

He's continue this until she rose a leg up and took the faded yellow parchment wrapped around his leg, which she then gave to the mayor, who'd pocket it for now. In turn, he'd fumble through a pocket quickly and withdraw a piece of dried meat from some sort of animal, which he would ensure the raven focused on with his small, milky eyes, before throwing it over for the bird to grab and feast on.

One of the local messenger ravens it seemed. A useful creature to send messages like this. Not unlike how some used pigeons in Equestria here and there where the normal postal service didn't reach.

Well, except for the fact that the pigeons tended to be alive whilst doing that.

This creature however, would be Rising's likely first encounter with a friendly, risen animal here in Harrowmark. He were in remarkable condition, but the dark magic that animated it would be obvious to him, and if not, the milky eyes and the couple of holes giving way to show off dead skin and a few bones, mostly hidden beneath his right wing and left thigh, should have been a dead giveaway.

It wouldn't be any sort of contagious dark magic though, and it wouldn't hold the same sick, corruption quality to it as he would have been somewhat used to from other sources in this country. There wouldn't be any sign of a specific caster doing anything to reanimated him either. However it worked, it seemed to be one of the naturally occurring reanimations that had been mentioned by Thistle briefly at an earlier point, when discussing how death worked in Harrowmark.

This were a pretty useful iteration though. Normal birds would tire easily over the long distances that some villages were from one another in Harrowmark. Undead carriers such as this however, didn't have that sort of disadvantage,  and if trained right would make for excellent ways to deliver messages, long as you remembered to give them their reward for their services, lest they snatched the messages back and refused to hand it over before they got something. A minor downside, but who didn't want to be paid for their work, right?

He also seemed to be on friendly terms with Wisp, or perhaps even belonging to her, as she rose a hoof again to stroke his feathers, and he responded with a pleased, hallow caw.

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

 

@Moonlit

"Yeppers. It's like medical handbooks. Always good to make sure you got everything fresh in your head space."

It sounded like they still had a lot of way to go now before they got on, and whilst Ziggy could surely entertain herself with the view and wind blowing through her mane, Serenade were right. They could do with a little nap so they were full of energy once they got there.

So Ziggy would curl up in a corner, using her large wings as a combined pillow and blanket, and after a bit snoozed off without a sound. The medication had made her pretty drowsy, so it weren't much of an issue to get to sleep honestly.

In case they didn't get disturbed during said sleep, Serenade would be up before Ziggy, who were now laying flat on her back on the floor, hooves spread unevenly out, and with her wings folded over her stomach. Beneath said wings, a curled up Fah'lina would be sleeping peacefully on the zegasus's stomach.

It weren't the first time the mimic had rearranged Ziggy's sleeping position a bit to make her into a sort of impromptu bed, though it were the first time she had slept like this. It were just that with all the rumblings from the train, she had wanted something more soothing in her ears. In this case, the calm heartbeat and slowly moving chest of Ziggy, sleeping away, having noticed nothing of the mimic sleeping like a cat on her stomach. Nothing unusual in her not noticing though. Ziggy generally slept like a stone, so it were easy to mess with her whilst she were sleeping.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

"Equestria are big on reform measures these days, so they try to avoid anypony simply wasting away in a cell dear. Of course, I can imagine there would be some prison in mind here, as they would have to figure out what to do, and then observe if he showed signs of improvement from the programs before putting him further along, and eventually, release him on parole. I sincerely hope that this will not occur to the dear colt though. Much as he have likely done wrong, I can believe he wishes to make something of his life now, and are trying to make amends. That should be encouraged, instead of just having focus on his past.

As for a psychologist, you can consider it sort of a mind doctor. Their methods vary widely depending on what sort they are, but they are professionals in evaluating the minds of their patients, and either offer their help in case they are suffering from some sort of mental instability like depression or repressed anger, or as they are also sometimes used, to evaluate the state of mind of somepony. For example if they show genuine remorse, or are improving from one meeting to another.

After the... Mine incident, a lot of us survivors needed to go visit one as well. Poor Clayton were there for years on end before he were able to functional normally in society again. None of us dealt well with the incident of course, but he needed the most help for not being a complete wreck. He didn't have anything to use as a coping mechanism like I did with obsession over my work, but with a lot of professional help and time, he have done much, much better.

If you ever feel lost, or broken in a way that you don't even know how to begin to describe, you should consider going to one and open your heart to them yourself dear. You would be amazed how much it helps to share and have somepony listen that won't judge you, but just try to get through and help you with whatever burdens your mind."

It really had done wonders for their group, and especially for their former forepony, as he had taken to the moonshine after the event for a while, which had cost him a lot of things in life that he had to earn back painfully slow after he had finally faced what he tried to escape from and got help, but at least he, and the rest of them, were in a better place now. And with their friends being released and returning to the world, there were even a small reason to celebrate, though of course, with all the things that had happened in their absence, there were plenty of hardships ahead for them all too. A sad, inevitable fact at this point, though at least things were in motions regarding them now, and she could relax her worries for a time whilst everything got sorted.

Seeing as the tea had gone cold under their talk, Amethyst did not resume drinking hers, and would understand if Lin would do the same, and prefer to fill a new cup. The hot water and the tea were still on the table, so it were not as if Lin couldn't simply pour a new cup to herself if she so wished, and perhaps try another blend if that tickled her fancy.

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

"I can tell you that the odds are in favor of this one eating rocks in the future. As for you, I see much. Nearly endless options in the long, twisted life ahead of you. Few are those who ends happily, and rare are the chance of you meeting your end from simple old age. But still, the odds are no guarantee. Remain with this mate of yours, and harvest the bounty for picking one whom can bring you to salvation. Though keep my warning in mind. It may yet save what you will have build, are you to remain, rather than leave."

"He's like this all the time. Vague as all hay."

"Choices changes, and the future does too. If I say too much, he will try and change something before that, and wander towards another catastrophe which nopony will have time to prepare for. Such is the burden of see the unwritten, and knowing that all must be balanced."

"Yeah yeah Mr. Weirdo, hehe. Anyway, I dunno where the chocolate fountain is going. I sorta figured Novia would just snap one up and place it riiight smack down the middle of the isle or something, so that we'd have to move it or go through it. I'm voting for through. Delicious wedding chocolate.

I wonder where the other guests are though. Hey, author person, you've seen them?"

No, but I know that they're spread all around the isle. You should hear a scream soon enough.

Which came a few seconds after that, and it seemed nearby.

"Guess we gotta go save the guests before they gets eaten."

Edited June 13, 2019 by Blitz Boom

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade lets them sleep, Ziggy needs it, and the Siren would like to keep herself intact cause waking the Mimic from such a sound slumber would result in bites and scratches. Eventually once the train neared the station she would gently nudge Fah'lina awake. "We are almost there." She'd then turn her attention to Ziggy, and would nuzzle the sleeping zegasus's. "Wakey Wakey."

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"I have no idea what you just said, Zhu."

"Does he take meds? I think Zhu needs to take meds. I diagnose Zhu with crazy!"

"Oh! Diagnose me too!"

Novia would think for a moment about what to do diagnose Lumen with.

"I diagnose you with being a pony."

Lucid was ready to go help the ponies that would probably get eaten by dangerous creatures if nothing was done soon.

"What exactly should we watch out for?"

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

“That’s a good sentiment. Just having someone willing to listen does wonders even if it doesn’t look like much. The rescued miners are going to have it rough given how much has changed since they were kept in that mine for many years. They’ll be opening old wounds again and maybe making new ones in the process. I hope they’re getting the help they need.”

Lin reached over to pour herself another cup and took two leaves, brewing herself the same tea. It was honestly one of the best she’s had in years and she never really got around to making herself some when she returned home. She wouldn’t have the means to trade for them back home. That was enough of a reminder to get busy when they get home but between herself and Sen, she wouldn’t know how to start. Honestly, the whole situation the miners are in mirrors the one the siblings are in and unlike Equestria proper where they have more means to get back on their feet, the two didn’t have that luxury. Sen will likely need to pick up a new skill or go back to being a hunter, if anyone is willing to let him in to begin with. 

Sen, however, seemed to have taken Amethyst’s word and carefully considered it. He still has his worries about coming to terms with losing father and mother, though he seems to be improving. There hasn’t been a conversation about them lately but he would take the mare’s suggestion if it was necessary. For now, he seems to be doing well enough by keeping occupied. 

“Hey, Amethyst, you wouldn’t happen to know where we could find inexpensive books would you? Maybe those that teach reading and spelling?”

[Widdershins 9,959]

@Catpone Cerberus

 Flopping his long body over, lengthwise, onto the grass to face up, Widdershins loudly expresses himself.

A Cat, a Pone AND an Urge?!!? Such wonderful, composite creatures that roam this wide, wooly world of Ech-Quest-ria!

Gesturing with his ears like one would with their arms while talking, the draconequus wriggles his long ears up in the air as he continues rambling.

Such a creative diversity of characters as comparable to the many worlds I say I don't remember traveling through! Why, its almost as if this world was created by some host of writers making some sort of show directed at children or the like!

Nay, when a Dragonequus composites themselves, its only symbolic! Never would have I guessed I'd come across a CatHorse!

  ...Not that I'm "Critiquing" or anything, of course.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@Dji

 Snaking his head back up off of the mare, the young drake puffs his checks and grumbles a reply.

 "Well, if you can't fly then..." he pauses, reluctantly contemplating his next course of action.

  "... you want me to take you somewhere other than this rooftop? Provided you can think of a way to ask me to carry you. Rather than just assaulting me.

… as seems to be your first impulse."

[Sekel 692]

@Widdershins

DAWN STREAK

"Hey! Assault is the most direct force!" Dawn protested and managed to wriggle out from under the drake and stood up, fluffing her feathers and dusting herself off. She looked off to the side for a moment and down at the ground from the roof before taking a deep breath and sighing. "Fine ... can you ... please ... take me to my home?"

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"Happy hour is a thing that bars do," Aurora grumbled as she attempted to get herself back to some semblance of normal and began following the weird being at a sedate pace once they got moving again. "I am not adorable. I am fluffy ... when I puff up after washing."

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"That would be very helpful, Last. Thank you," Twilight told the mare, having dialed back down a tad from her excitement to just plain old enthusiasm. "Now, for the ingredients! I need ... let's see," she devolved into mumbles as she tried to figure out if she's heard of the ingredients before or not.

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE

"Oh, then no, that isn't me," Karmic admitted and looked down at the island as they passed it. She didn't know why she was drawn to it. Maybe it was because of what had happened to Enzo? Maybe it was because it was so desolate and isolated? She couldn't tell but by the time she had realised she was still on Enzo's back, the island was far in the distance. "What kind of temple was it, Enzo?"

[Widdershins 9,959]

@Dji

  "Fine"

 Kaltrop begins as he flexes his wings out with an audible sound into the position dragons tend to use when they think they're being subtle about showing off.

 "If you would kindly be specific about where home is."

Then drooping his wings after a pause, as he blushes a bit to add one one last addendum.

 "...and... uh, if you can figure out a way to, uh, get on me that isn't awkward...I don't exactly do this for just anypo-... anyone."

Edited June 15, 2019 by Widdershins

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
To her usual manner, Ruby just nodded to Spicy's short rant. She wanted to say something when Spicy called her girlie, but held it back knowing it again would only cause problems. Spicy's choice of word both annoyed and slightly amused Ruby, annoyed because it was a way for Spicy to try to make herself above Ruby, not that she could tell if it was her intent, and amused because...well, she was quite a lot older than Spicy. "I don't really care for skins, they are messy and need too much work to make to last."

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"I know you're trying to make me feel better about it, but remember that I have millennia long cap in my knowledge about..everything really. I'm sure it takes ponies a while to get used to things too, but I really doubt any pony is even close to how much behind I am." Nada said with rather matter-of-fact-ly tone "And really, how much someone else has to read doesn't really make the amount of information for me any smaller." "But I would appreciate a lot if you got me books, even about things besides the creatures, really anything that has happened between the banishment and now would be appreciated." 

----------------------------------------------------------
@Widdershins
"That's a oddly long and complicated way to say 'you're are an unusual sight'." Cerberus commented surprisingly unfazed by the weirdness in front of him, though he still seemed very curious, looking at Widdershins all over "Can I ask you something?" he didn't wait for permission "Where do Dragonequus come from?" the cats had started coming back now that there didn't seem to be serious danger, though they still stayed some distance away just in case, meaning that soon enough there would be an army of cats some distance behind Cerberus just standing there staring at Widdershins.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Dji

"Y'know, I weren't always called that? After I got sucked into this world and got myself converted, I had to pick one that sounded more like what you creatures would run with, if I were to be any good at the whole scouting game. Back then, I were a wine maker called Harry, so I figured Happy Hour were sounding about right. Doubly so since I could keep up my booze business here, though frankly, I love it far more here. All that magic you creatures take for granted? None of that where I were from, so there were no magic box I could use for aging the wine right. Nope, there I had to store this stuff for ages before I could even attempt to sell it.

Honestly, I don't miss it. This place is so nice and clean, and the magic? Boy howdy, let me tell ya, I love it. Same with the wings. There's just something special about soaring through the skies all by yourself, ya know? Far better than the corrupt, polluted shell I started on."

Whilst speaking, Happy and her had gotten a fine enough pace going again, all things considered, and it seemed like this time, they might be getting some peace. Wouldn't be long before they exited the forest now, so here were hoping that it held, and that they wouldn't get assaulted by an Ursa or something. Though granted, Happy would like having one of their hides as a coat. They were darn pretty.

3 hours ago, Dji said:

"I am not adorable. I am fluffy ... when I puff up after washing."

"Awh, ain't used to that sorta talk, eh? You're gonna need to get a bit used to that sorta thing girlie, cause honestly, I'm a bit on the cheeky side sometimes. Started being just an act, but it really just feels right after doing it some years.

Now, you talking 'bout being all fluffy after a bath? Are we talking *massive floof moment* or more of an *angry baby owl* sort of thing?"

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

 

@Dji

Last silently saluted the princess in response, as Twilight agreed on the protective duty. It weren't much, but this did show that the princess were willing to think of others helping her with her safety. Perhaps talking her into getting a proper guard force of her own would not be as difficult as Last had at first thought it could be? They'd see soon enough, after they had finished their task. Depending on what happened, she might end up being more cooperative about it, or feeling too secure, if nothing were to go wrong. They'd see.

Meanwhile, Cherish floated over near the princess to try and get what she were speaking off that they needed. The princess were mumbling a whole lot though, so she couldn't understand it. Well, she'd tell them where to go and what to pick up eventually, surely, so she'd wait a bit and see if the princess spilled the beans here, or if they would have to follow her blindly. Something which Last seemed to have no problems with, but Cherish were less inclined, as she did prefer to know what they might be doing, in case it were dangerous or something.

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

 

@Dji

"One made to protect the Element of Hatred. Traps and dragons lining the halls, all aiming to keep this gem from entering the world, like other of their allies did.

That is the lie they would sell, were they still here to speak it."

Enzo's voice got sour, and beneath him, his claws extended from his paws, as the familiar memories of the scaled beings who had held him there came to mind, and the want to tear them apart grew.

"They would never talk of the things they did for i, like kidnapping a sphinx kitten, barely old enough to traverse away from his own lands, and chaining him within the center. That were my reality, as I woke to find the element bound to me in a magical necklace, and no way to leave. Threats, begging, it made no difference to them, whilst they treated me as little more than a mere animal. No, less than that, a Thing!"

Below them, the waves crashed around as his wind magic reacted to his anger, though they were too far above the waves for them to have a chance of hitting them, no matter how chaotic it may look.

"There were others too. Creatures captured, and tormented for whatever twisted reason they excused themselves with. All the while, keeping me there for decades on end, until one day, they were simply gone. Dragons, servants, forced slave laborers, all of them, packed up and vanished during the night. But I were still stuck there, unable to leave the main chamber, and just having to sit in silence, and wait for them to return, so that they could at least provide the only decency they ever had, in keeping me fed.

Have you ever felt the loneliness gnaw at your bones? Felt isolation drive you to dark places, as you have nothing but your own thoughts tormenting you? If ever you felt this, then try to imagine it happening for two hundred years. That were the fate they left me to, along with a hunger that were never sated. Whatever critters and bugs I managed to lure to me, were neither tasty nor enough to sate me, and though I had a wellspring in my room to ensure there were water, it cannot sate hunger.

Tell me, can any being blame me that I cared little for the motives of those who made it past the traps, and finally answered the riddles to take that accursed thing from me? Be they evil or not, they ended my torment, and had they not too left me behind, once the battle commenced in Canterlot, you wouldn't have found me surrendering to the guards, nor seeking shelter with your kind. I would have been out there, likely causing havoc upon the dragons, to gain vengeance for the years they stole from me."

Things calmed down beneath them again as the island they had to go to came into view. This were a story that Enzo had told himself many times during the years, as he frankly had little else to do in the two centuries he had been trapped, mostly all alone in that accursed temple. Speaking it now to someone else though, were a different and emotional situation, Thankfully not one that had resulted in any creature getting hurt though.

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

 

@Moonlit

The shaking made the mimic bash against the hoof weakly with her small arms, without claws. She'd get up fine, but she didn't like being rushed to wake up. Rather, she preferred to take her time, and were it not because she knew who the voice telling her to wake up belonged to, she may well have responded with showing a lot of whatever limb were poking her straight into her toothy maw. Something which could still happen if she kept getting poked at during her upstart. Something which Ziggy had learned the hard way a few weeks ago, and dutifully never done again.

Serenade were thankfully smart enough to not do that, and instead as she had just poked to Fah'lina lightly and shortly, whilst speaking in a way that didn't make it sound like the mimic were getting rushed or hurried. This caused the small thing to get the time to brush the wings she'd used to cover herself away from her face, and rise up with a small, chittering yawn.

Ziggy wouldn't wake up that easily however, as she were having herself a pretty good nap and weren't as easy to get going as the mimic were. As such, after Fah'lina were done stretching her small, bushy limbs and shake to get the last out of her system, she'd crawl into action.

Getting up to the mare's head, she'd take a deep breath, and then exhale straight into Ziggy's nose.

The zegasus would wrinkle her muzzle as the mixed smell of fish, candy, and whatever else the creature had feasted upon roamed through her head, and eventually, her hooves would go up and cover her nostrils to stop more of this from entering.

"Eeew, stinky. Somepony needs a breath mint."

She slowly opened her eyes and looked at the mimic, who did her best to look sarcastically innocent. Complete with paws gathered in front of her, big eyes looking towards an imaginary halo, and a cute little smile. For a creature that couldn't speak and whose writing were still pretty bad, she had a way of getting her point across, as she did now too when Ziggy pointed at her with one hoof still covering her nose.

"I'm not falling for that, smelly mouth. There were fishies in that."

The mimic would then jerk her head a few times towards Serenade whilst still looking up and facing Ziggy, indicating it weren't her, but the siren, before just starting to laugh, pull her tongue on Ziggy, and flap over to land on Serenade's head, which gave Ziggy the chance to get herself up from the floor and with a small yawn, get ready to face the day again. Though she did could really use to get outside so there were room for her to stretch her wings without hitting something. Since she had been woken up, and Serenade seemed like she were standing ready, she guessed this meant they were about to get off the train?

"Good morning. Or evening? I dunno. Hello then, hehe."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I dunno, I like a good fur coat during winter, even if some animal huggers likes to complain about it."

One of the reasons she never got within fifty miles of Ponyville during the cold seasons. She knew well about that weirdo with all the animal, and she didn't want any grief considering she were well beloved and as a friend of the princess, also well connected. Best way to deal with this situation were to do nothing, and just go elsewhere, like Baltimare. That place always managed to have some fun things to do during winter.

Word or something must have spread as they wandered on, since no creature seemed to want to pop out and play with them, so the trip were rather uneventful. Boring even to Spicy, as Ruby weren't really one she knew what to talk about to that wouldn't just be shot down, as the mare seemed to really not be big on the whole *talk to pass the time* thing.

Whilst she thought on that, Ruby might find something else to focus on that weren't visible to somepony regular like Spicy, about an hour away from Canterlot: Several instances of gold, stashed somewhere near them that didn't have an obvious entrance. Another buried ruin perhaps? Caved in hideout? Magically infused invisibility barrier? Whatever it were, it'd be one that potentially hadn't gotten robbed in advance. Perhaps this day could end up getting better?

(Letting you decide where exactly it will be, and how they get there)

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Heh, I don't even have to go to the library for that. I have a lot of history books at home. I read 'em through to find out where The Conspiracy had things changed to cover up their nefarious deeds."

She might be smiling whilst saying this, and in a jovial tone no less, but Berry would be dead serious about why she had the history books. It wouldn't do her much good since she didn't have any definitive proof of one of those cover-up's yet, but sooner or later she'd find something that matched with the inconsistencies, and them Boom! She'd blow this thing right open, and expose what were going on.

Anyway, she had written most of the stuff down that seemed to really get to her, so she wouldn't have an issue letting Nada have them to read and learn. Long as she ignored the notes from the mare here and there, it were likely to be rather enlightening to her about what had happened in the past millennia or so.

"And you know, there I've seen one pony that were more behind than you. Get this: Three thousand years behind. Yep, got herself all crystallized back when Discord ruled, and didn't get free'd until around three months ago. I ran into her in Ponyville when she were looking for some sorta swordspony that needed to get a message. She figured since a lot came into Sloppy Joe's, we might've seen him.

I'd argue she might've been crazy, but she did make a pretty strong case for herself, with a lot of compelling details to back it up."

Whilst most figured that inns or taverns were the hot spot for seeing and hearing weird stuff all the time, coffee shops like where Berry worked were pretty talkative too, and she both heard of and met a lot of creatures there, as the primary barista. Some of the stories she could tell would potentially blow the mind of the siren, or make her think that everypony in town were utter lunatics. Perhaps both.

"Heh, anyway, I know it's gonna be a darn slump to go through to get fully accepted and all Nada, but chin up and trust me, they'll warm up to you in time. And before they do, you'll always have me, Serenade, Cherish, and the princesses to back you up and support you. You won't be standing alone in all of this."

Figuring this were the right time, Berry would step over and give Nada a big ol' hug, with her smiling face hugging against the scaled belly of the siren. This here were her friend, and both Berry and all the others that had gotten to know her and supported her thus far, were gonna stick with her, and make sure that she'd be safe and cared for. The changeling might even too, though boy howdy were there a lot of history to prove otherwise.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 6/14/2019 at 9:48 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“That’s a good sentiment. Just having someone willing to listen does wonders even if it doesn’t look like much. The rescued miners are going to have it rough given how much has changed since they were kept in that mine for many years. They’ll be opening old wounds again and maybe making new ones in the process. I hope they’re getting the help they need.”

"I can assure you that both Clayton and myself are sparring no expense to make sure that our old friends gets all the support they can, in whatever way it is needed, yet we both know that it will only become worse for some of them after they learn of what happened with their families and loved ones. it is not easy to see how ten years have passed with you out of the picture, as sometimes the answer can be quite... Troubling."

Following Lin's example, Amethyst would also pour herself a new cup of tea. This time, taking from the Harromark leaves to make a blend that smelled like a mixture of blackberries and tree sap. Not the most delightful combination, she knew, but it were palatable, and the taste were delightfully earthy and rich, so it made up for the downside in her mind.

She wouldn't bore these two with the details unless they asked for them, but it really had been an unsettling task of helping them, whilst knowing some of the stories to at least a few of their questions about family and friends, yet knowing that it would be a cruel thing to do to give them clear answers at the time. Soon enough they would have to face things, yet for now, they had managed to convince them all to undergo treatment in a closed, private facility that certainly were expensive, yet well worth the bits since the staff were very kind and attentive, as well as trained in everything they needed in dealing with others. Some had chosen to stay there on the grounds, unsure of what to do, whilst others had managed to get apartments, or being gathered in small houses nearby the place, rented by Clayton. He really did carry the majority of the financial burden here, but he had insisted on not troubling her too much with that sort, and said that since she mostly dealt with the ponies in question as she were a far better being at caring for and comfort others, the least he could do were to make sure that the majority of the financial aspects were taken care off.

On 6/14/2019 at 9:48 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Hey, Amethyst, you wouldn’t happen to know where we could find inexpensive books would you? Maybe those that teach reading and spelling?”

"Personally I would suggest simply using the library if it were about teaching Omen, though I assume it is because you don't want Shrimp to accidentally damage borrowed property, and you wish to be ready?

Well, fresh books can be somewhat costly, even if they are mainly meant to foals... But slightly used would not be an issue, would it? If so, one can often find plenty of used books of varied kinds at thrift stores. In fact, there is a rather delightful one down Peppermint Street, about two and a half mile to the north of my shop, that tends to have many school related things for sale that primarily targets students, which means that their prices tends to be fair on most things. Places like that may hold an inexpensive way to get good to passable copies of literature?"

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

"Believe what you will. I see what is to come, and I pray that for your country's sake, you will remember to heed my words when your turning point happens."

Zhu cared little if this one believed him. Few did, yet for this one, he could not nudge things to make sure that what he saw did not come to pass, except by giving a hint that the stallion might remember in the moment, and adhere to. If not, then there would be consequences, or perhaps whomever made sure to keep the balance in his dimension would come to fix this themselves. he saw beings in Lucid's futures that seemed to be there for such reasons, though all seemed to be nearly shrouded, so he could not get a good look at them.

While he got on his paws again, Anomaly would grow a lab coat and glasses, and take part in the doctor stuff.

"We must cure him. We have the technology!

...Right after we get the guests back. The author is just gonna be a big meanie about it if we don't try, and the wedding will be all quiet. Boooring.

So, follow the screams! And you should expect lots of things. Everything on this island can fight for itself somehow. Lots of poisonous stuff, big teeth, tentacles - can't forget the tentacles - memetic powers, etc. If you can imagine a way for it to be dangerous, I might've done it.

I think that first scream came from the grove where the Tentacle Viper Bushfolks grows though. They eat pretty quickly, so we miiight wanna hurry."

(You can make up animal, flora and fauna on the island) "Yeah, what he said."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade suppresses a giggle. "It's Evening, I let the pair of you sleep a bit longer as it seems you both needed it, and yes we're here." Serenade grabs her saddlebags, "Now we can catch a cab or walk/fly to my parents house." Serenade exits the train into Baltimare Central Station. As soon as Serenade steps onto the platform a small russet-colored blur tackles her, sending both it and the Siren into a pyramid of bags, which collapses. A stream of words, too fast for any pony other then Pinkie to understand, comes from the blur. 

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

Lucid was on the lookout, while as crazy has may have seemed, he still had value for the lives of others. He did try to read the minds of whoever was around so he could maybe find them. He looked down at Pringle who was at normal size.

"No, the astral thing was a load of baloney. I don't actually do that, it's stupid."

Pringle climbed up on Lucid's head and would look aggressively at a nearby hamster that had ladybug wings.

"What's with that thing?"

"Yeah! What does it do?"

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

“A thrift store on Peppermint Street… That sounds good! I think we can rest a little easier knowing we won’t have to pay extra for damaged books to the library.”

Sen smiled and nodded, looking over to Omen and Shrimp reassured their early education will be covered just fine. Maybe not exactly how he planned it but it is better than shelling out ludicrous amounts of bits for books and school fees. He didn’t exactly plan that far ahead but understandably, the meager amount of bits he had saved up in his travels combined with the extra bits Rosa gave him won’t be enough to cover the expenses. Still, there are some alternatives they can eventually turn to much later on, preferably ones that don’t require expenditures. 

“Maybe Shrimp can join you and Lin on your next study session. How does that sound, Omen? Want to give our little friend a preview?”

As for Lin, Amethyst’s response to her earlier question was… disturbing to say the least. Disturbingly accurate more like but it was right on point. That was a matter she and Sen wrestled with for a while and hearing about it gave her pause. She didn’t take a sip of her tea but stared blankly at her cup. It seemed as while Sen was able to slowly come to terms with it, a little bit of her couldn’t let go of that imagery. The same ones from the swamp that she could still remember in detail. 

“I… yes. Troubling. Emotionally draining and painful for them to move on from it. I guess the biggest help you can give them is to just be with them, lend an ear to listen. Having someone who listens does wonders to ease pain. I don’t mean to tell you how you should be doing things but… I just thought it could help.” 

Lin’s reply was more heartfelt than she initially anticipated but she truly meant everything she said. There was an air of genuine concern that even she was compelled to give what help she can by offering her own experience despite how vague it came off. Perhaps some of Sen’s concerns rubbed off on her.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
As to be expected, Ruby didn't say anything during the travel, after all, she didn't have anything to say, and Spicy didn't seem to care for starting any conversations either, not that it was a bad thing, in fact, she enjoyed the silence. She kept her senses sharp now that her natural animal repellent wasn't there, but there didn't seem to be any creatures besides few curious prey animals that looked at the two mares wondering if they were a threat. 

She almost missed the gold near them because of the high amounts of treasure right next to her, but it being in opposite direction to said treasure, it was big enough difference to get her focus on it better. She stopped walking "Is there supposed to be gold in that direction underground?" she pointed to a direction "It's in several places, I'd guess it's in boxes about the size of my box." "From positioning I would guess they are in a open space, probably a room of sorts." 

(Some sort of cellar with hatch or something to get in, maybe a cellar of some old house that has rotted away long ago?)

---------------------------------------------------
Nada listened everything Berry had to say, she didn't know how to feel about the mare she told about, because regardless of if she was crazy or really that old, it could become a problem when it comes to getting along with her...if Nada ever met her that is. Nada smiled at Berry's words and hug, leaning down enough to somewhat return the hug, she would need to learn to float in more flat position so ponies would have easier time to interact with her. "I guess I haven't thought it like that." "I'm so used to being alone that I forgot that regardless of how this thing goes, I already have friends here." she then, wanting to make things more positive, continued with a slightly joking tone "Maybe the princesses would take me as their personal entertainer if the common ponies don't like me." it probably was lot more amusing to her than to Berry, but hey, she has sung to trees for last millennia, one's humor is bound to dry up a bit in that time. 

 

[Rising Dusk 27,514]

@Blitz Boom

Hard to argue with that kind of logic.  Rarely was it so a case to be solved that affected ponies on such a scale.  Mostly just putting an end to a gangs terror on a neighborhood or bringing a wayward pony for abusing their magic.  A celebration such as this was understandable, but being held in his honor... well, he'd just have to accept that.  "Fair enough," the detective nodded, finding no hole worth prodding in her logic.  Casting his gaze around to all the gathered ponies of this town, wondering how many other were taking the time to do the same if word spread fast enough.  He couldn't imagine he was out all that long.  The side effects of the power pill and subsequent antidote were brutal, but not long lasting.  Twisted Gears had dung in deep for his last stand, that was for sure.

Turning his attention to the tables littered with food, all of which looked quite delicious in their own right.  Not one for much foreign food, even if Manehatten had some of the most diverse cuisine in Equestria, he preferred the more simple of foods.  Although there was the restaurant he found off the beaten path while on a case in Canterlot that had absolutely divine curry.  He's yet to find a substitute for it in his own city.  A pity though since his caretaker had already fed him not that long ago.  His desire for food at the moment was pretty low on the list.  Although, simply observing a celebration fueled his own interests in listening and pony watching that not partaking of the food was not all that much of a problem.  Rising Dusk also wasn't much of a drinker when it came to alcohol.  "Water will be fine, thank you.  Should aid my recovery more," he told the specter and made his way over to what he thought might be a pitcher of the clean liquid.

Instead though, he was greeted by the mayor of the town, who looked more dressed than everypony else in attendance at the celebration.  Accepting the older stallion's hoof in the exchange of shaking.  Relying on the other's own movements due to the lack of energy to put much effort into it himself.  The detective offering up a smile nonetheless though.  "The side effects of the medicine are extreme, but ultimately short term.  Just a little physical fatigue, sir," he tried to assure the town's mayor.  When the inquiry about Will-O came up, he glanced in her direction, not all that far from him it seemed, and then back at the mayor.  "Ms. Wisp's care has been more than I can ask for.  I thank you both for your hospitality," he bowed his head in thanks. 

Only to feel the tingle on the back of his neck as a disturbingly familiar presence pulled at his extra sense.  It wasn't all that hard to pinpoint as the large bird swooped down to deliver a message to his host.  The clout of necrotic magics that surrounded the bird was a somber reminder of how different Harrowmark was from Equestria.  A point of tension that might make relations with his home a little strained.  The mixing of light and dark magics.  It would be up to ponies like him and the O.M.I. to explain the intent of these dark magics to help ease acceptances with the Princesses.  No magic is inherently evil, only the intent behind the spell. 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

10 minutes ago, Rising Dusk said:

"The side effects of the medicine are extreme, but ultimately short term.  Just a little physical fatigue, sir," he tried to assure the town's mayor.  When the inquiry about Will-O came up, he glanced in her direction, not all that far from him it seemed, and then back at the mayor.  "Ms. Wisp's care has been more than I can ask for.  I thank you both for your hospitality," he bowed his head in thanks

"Excellent. I wish that we could have offered more than what we have, but we are far into what used to be Twisted's territory, where resources have not been abundant. Hopefully we can finally start to make a change now, and bring back some interest in Oaksbrook from elsewhere. Perhaps if you one day return, we can present you with a town we can be proud in."

Most of the buildings in the town were generations old, and the only ones who could technically count as new, were ones that had been so damaged that they essentially had to rebuild them. Since Twisted had taken much of the resources from around the land for his own gain, and ordered them to provide him even further, expanding on housing or rebuilding were a rare occurrence, as it wasted what he had considered His materials.

In this case he had allowed it as the building were important to house some of the more useful townfolk that had to do his bidding, though he had made clear that he would look into instead forcefully clearing another house of far less useful subjects the next time, rather than this.

Mostly though, they had to settle with simply repairing everything the best they could, with as little materials as possible. If at all an option, reusing some that had been broken before were optimal, as that were not seen as wasting anything, and if Rising were to look around, he would easily be able to see this mindset at work. Even the mayors house had some rather large patches of old wood hammered in places, with some sort of vegetation set in to fill the worst gaps. Both him and his predecessor would have liked to fix this, but neither of them had been crazy enough to try and ask Twisted if it were alright.

The former mayor had attempted to sneak around the problem by going out and harvesting some wood herself. An action which only resulted in the whole thing getting confiscated by Twisted, who mockingly thanked her for giving him some bonus materials for the month. Perhaps it were going a bit far, but he had wanted to make clear that they could not just get things by going out and getting hold of it themselves after he had gotten his share. He wanted to make sure they relied on his mercy more than that, so that they wouldn't get any ideas, and the following month he had sent minions to take all the materials and half their usual food supply, instead of just most, every single day, just to show them what disobedience of any kind would cause. Thank Viz'nay that this nightmarish existence were now at an end.

"I will not hold you Mr. Dusk, but please, anything you need - anything at all - don't hesitate to ask. We will all gladly do whatever we can to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Is that not correct, Will-O?"

Wisp stopped petting the large bird and looked over at the mayor as she were addressed.

"Y-Yes Mayor Pineworth, of course."

The mayor looked as the somewhat nervous mare with a knowing look, and chuckled to himself.

"Well, I wont disturb you further. Please enjoy the festivities, and I ask of you to perhaps let us know before you leave, Mr. Dusk? We would like to give you our farewells when the time comes."

Without even waiting for an answer, the stallion would lift his hat - revealing an old, large scar going down his bald scalp - and step back into the crowd with a smile on his face, giving Rising his privacy again. If Rising still looked for the pitcher of water, he would find one on a nearby table too, right next to the juice that attracted mostly the foals and those with weak stomachs. Not everyone here handled their spicier drinks all that well, nor were allowed to touch it. They might be celebrating here, but Harrowmark did still have some ground rules and traditions that they had been allowed to follow, which they intended to keep going. A legal minimum for this sort of thing were but one of many.

Meanwhile, as her playtime with the bird had seemingly been halted for now, Wisp would move a little closer to Rising. An action which would cause the raven to focus more on the one who they seemed to be approaching, though not showing any sort of alarm over the unfamiliar face.

"I don't think this is something you'd see much where you're from, so... Dusk, this is Chirpy. Don't worry, he won't hurt you. I've had him since before he hatched, and he's always been the kindest bird alive. Or dead I suppose. He uhm... A villager from another town accidentally shot him with an arrow. I didn't notice before he got back with the message he'd been sent with and I saw the arrow still sticking out, two days after I expected him to return in the first place.

I know this might seem horrifying to you, but creatures just sometimes come back here in Harrowmark. Depending on what state they're in after, the animals have a good chance at remembering who they are too. It's mostly about what's left of the head, and Chirpy's are intact."

It were a rather foalish name to give an animal, but in her defense, she had been a little filly when she had first gotten the egg from her mothers own raven, and when he hatched, she had just been so gleeful. Spouting about having her very own little chirpy.

It seemed so silly now, but things didn't change for her. Alive or dead, this were still her long time friend, and he still responded to the name he had once been given. It weren't like some of the other messenger ravens who had been through the same thing, but had ended up in a worse condition with their memories and needed to be retrained, or even needing to be retaught basically everything from scratch. Chirpy had been lucky in that regard.

And speaking of the raven, it seemed like he were getting aware that Rising were not an enemy, and potentially even someone that his owner got along with, so he flapped over to a nearby table, got a polished piece of metal that had fallen off one of the barrels, and flapped back to Wisp's back. Once there, he'd jump forth a little, and present the piece of metal to Rising on Wisp's head. Cementing that it were meant for him by pushing it a bit forward with his beak and looking at the stallion. A loud caw would follow soon after, which seemed to just make Wisp smile and let out a small giggle.

"I think he likes you."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Wait, there's boxes of gold 'round here? Well hot diggity Ruby, you're a darn miracle worker."

Normally Spicy would question these sorts of statements, but Ruby had already shown that what she could do in feeling out the good stuff weren't bogus. She were the real deal when it came to this, and one who'd want a pretty bit anytime that she could, so frankly there were no reason to think she were fibbing here. Well, unless she were planning on knocking Spicy out and steal all her cash, but she wouldn't do that. They'd barely met, and she were rolling in bits already. If Ruby were going to stab them in the back, then sure she'd wait until she could get 'em for all they got, and not just some petty cash in a wagon, right? The gal weren't stupid after all.

"Alright, lemme park this thing and then we start looking for some sort of entrance. Lots of vegetation, few run down shacks, and who knows what in the ground, so we got some ways to go searching for an entrance. Heh, we might even need to start digging if it's buried. And then folks say I'm weird for keeping a shovel in my wagon."

Whilst she were talking, Spicy would have parked the wagon off the road, and released herself from it. So now, she were just about ready to go treasure hunting.

"You smelled it out, so only fair that you're the lead on this Ruby. So, what's the plan boss?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

Awh, weren't this all kinds of nice? Nada were returning her hug, and it seemed to have gotten through that no matter what went on, the siren had pals on her side now. A few fairly powerful ones too, considering some of 'em were princesses. That carried quite a bit of weight in a society like Equestria, where the monarchy basically ruled with varying degrees of importance. Twilight weren't really part of the government or anything yet, but she'd likely get there in time, and with all the peace connections she were making these days to old enemies, she were a crowd pleaser in Equestria. Pretty strong card to sit with, and she wasn't even the highest ranking one on her side.

Sure, some like Berry and Cherish weren't all that important to this. A ghost and a conspiracy nut weren't exactly what most would consider star witnesses or anything, but apples to that, right? Everything - and everypony - counted here.

The lil' joke from the siren got a giggle and a snort from Berry, as she imagined Nada in one of them huge, golden bird cages that she'd seen depicted in theater productions now and again. Just a big ol' siren, floating on a perch, and singing away next to a huge water bottle.

"Hehehe, oh man, if you could only see what I saw right now."

Berry pulled back and beamed up towards her friend with a big grin from ear to ear.

"And they'd be lucky to have you perform. I heard your voice before, and you got yourself a real good voice. We just gotta get you caught up on some new tunes one of these days, so can expand your repertoire a bit and really wipe the floor with whoever gets the idea that they're able to outperform you."

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@Moonlit

So this were Baltimare? Seemed pretty. Seemed to be some sort of issue with assault hugs here though, but that were nothing that really startled Ziggy. She did the same thing constantly. How she didn't have a wall of restraining orders had actually surprised a few ponies here and there.

Whoever this were seemed to have the same sorta issue of over-friendliness that she had. The being in question also had the issue that at the time where Serenade were tackled, Fah'lina were still sitting on her back, which meant that she were very aggravated at the sudden attack. Doubly so because she almost got her tail stuck beneath a heavy-looking bag and got knocked off her comfy ride. Unless Serenade were quick on her steps, the mimic would attack the blue creature with maw wide open and aiming for the first the best body part to set her teeth into.

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@EQ_Theta

On 6/16/2019 at 2:58 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Maybe Shrimp can join you and Lin on your next study session. How does that sound, Omen? Want to give our little friend a preview?

"I do not know. Shrimp? Do you want to read?"

Omen hadn't a clue what to say in the situation, as she still weren't on the line about her technically being the owner of Shrimp. To her, he were more like a very small, non-talkative friend, so she figured that situations like this, he should be asked, not her. He might not answer though, but she still did so as it seemed like what normal beings would do, rather than simply say yes on behalf of a friend of theirs.

So she had gotten close to the refraction, who were sniffing the air and looking towards the large cluster with eager eyes at this point, though he remained on Omen's neck for the time being. He would pick her head, but the steam from the tea she had drunk before annoyed him, so he had gone down to here.

They met face to face now as the question were asked, and Omen just stared at his small creature, who seemed to both depend on their group, and do perfectly fine at the same time. A strange situation, yet it seemed like ensuring that he got fed dealt with most of the input needed from her, so it were at least not complicated for her. Once they got to the day to day things that Sen and Lin had dealt with for a good while now though, it may start to change.

"Ohme!"

A botched word were all she got before he playfully bit her nose and made chirping noises. He seemed to be smiling so... Guess she had an answer then?

"I think he says yes?"

On 6/16/2019 at 2:58 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I… yes. Troubling. Emotionally draining and painful for them to move on from it. I guess the biggest help you can give them is to just be with them, lend an ear to listen. Having someone who listens does wonders to ease pain. I don’t mean to tell you how you should be doing things but… I just thought it could help.” 

Amethyst smiled and shook her head as Lin apologized for her well meaning word. Such a kind hearted young lady this were, and yet so unsure of the worth of her own words it seemed. It carried with it some degree of charm to it, though she did wish that the poor thing would one day be confident that what she said were as valuable as what anypony else would say, even if it were one reinforcing a plan of action that were likely already in motion.

"I don't mind dear. It shows me that your heart is in the right place, to care for ponies whom you have barely met.

And I do wish that I were there to personally see to their mental health, yet much as I wish I could constantly stay with them, the professionals insisted that I leave them some breathing room. In their opinion, it would be hard for them to constantly see a reminder of how time had passed in their absence, when they were still struggling to accept that. I cannot say that I agree with them, as I know that some of them needs the comfort of a familiar face in this difficult time, but for the sake of their betterment, I conceded to not be there every waking moment I have.

So I spend time working, and waiting to hear more from both doctors and Clayton, whilst visiting my old friends as often as I am allowed to. It is not an ideal situation for anypony, yet sadly, this appears to be the best course of action. Though I can imagine that once Clayton have found news of all the friends and families of them, and we have to break the news, both of us will be needed to shoulder tears from some - if not all - of them.

I know not if you have ever lost somepony, but try to imagine that happened, and you were first told of it several years later. It is a... Horrifying prospect to face."

Amethyst's cup shook slightly as she lifted it to end her talk with a sip of tea, and a grim shadow went over her otherwise jolly exterior for a brief moment. She could not imagine the pain such news were going to inflict upon somepony, yet even trying to made her feel physically ill and assaulted. What horrors were she not to see on their faces?

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@Lucid_Nightlight

"The Hamsterbug? It tastes good."

As she said that, the creature looked over towards them, and with a loud, surprised squeak, would curl into a ball and roll away quickly. Every time it bounced, it left behind a kind of yellow ooze that just sunk into the ground, which would not be easily identifiable, until it reached a tree and just melted straight through it. Said tree let out a loud and started to stuff the hole with dirt, gathered up with a long vine with a large and sturdy, near metallic strength leaf at the end of it.

"Just munch it before the acid comes out. It's less yummy when your tummy is gone."

As the dirt got moved, they'd find a guest too, who had been seemingly buried to the neck and covered with leaves. Possibly by the tree.

"Oh look, we found one. Off you go to the wedding ground, hehe."

With a surprised gasp and a drawn out scream, something would come from below and drag the pony down into the dirt, then back to the wedding area, where she'd be spat out of the ground, like a bad tasting piece of apple.

"That's one screamy thingy. Any of you hear more screams, or smells the weird normies?"

To the right, 150 meters. Look into the water.