open Casual stroll

[Fuchsia]

On 2021-03-19 at 8:07 PM, Blitz Boom said:

On 2021-03-18 at 10:03 PM, abrony-mouse said:

"So true! Also webs. I once trotted through a forest near Tall Tale which was strangely quiet - out of the corner of my eye I saw a few webs and thought nothing of it. No bones to be seen... at first. My companions stepped on something and boom... webs shot out from everywhere and they were struggling like crazy but got stuck in place. The spiders were everywhere. Only me and Clairvoyance got out of that one." she shudders at the memory. "We found the bones later. So many bones, both critters and ponies." 

Billowing let out a deep sigh, and hang his head in sorrow at what he were told.

"We lose too many adventurers and wilderness groups to giant spiders, sadly. I am sorry for the loss of those you travelled with."He knew not an adventurer himself with over three years of experience in the field, who did not have their own variation of the tale that Fuchsia came with now. Giant spiders were a strangely prevalent thing to find out in the unseen corners of the world, that beings such as them chose to quest to find, and sadly, they then had to deal with losses to monsters. Giant spiders being among the more common, and with several variants. He himself had lost a dear companion before, due to a volcano spider, which were every bad thing about elementals, and spiders, combined into one, aggressive hunting machine. Thankfully that one were dead, though the loss were still there, which were perhaps an adventure he would share in due time. Not now though. It would seem disrespectful to compare now, when the topic came on a somber thing such as what Fuchsia had described.

Fuchsia nods on hearing the familiar words - exploration and risk go hoof in hoof and the best ponies end up gone and some of the worst remain; her ears flatten briefly and she touches her flank with a forehoof, remembering her parted companions but also offering a secret wish against her own premature parting.

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On 2021-03-18 at 10:03 PM, abrony-mouse said:

"Eye gnasher! Why do cultists always go for things like that." she shakes her head, also benefitting from the talk, feeling more herself after the fright of being trapped inside. "Silliest cultists I met all worshipped a great big rat in a sewer." she smiles, lightening up even as they descend into the bowels of the temple.

 

"There's a few of those cults that sorship seemingly simplistic, yet overgrown animals. Usually the crazed and desperate, who would latch on to anything they'd consider able to show them a path. I've met a primarily griffon based one, who worshipped a turtle, after it brought them a fish to eat when they were starving in a cave.

It's mostly harmless... To a certain extend. The issue becomes if the beliefs overtake, and the flock goes fanatic. Worship is what powers gods, and though animals are not that, they can evolve to being rather vindictive little pagan gods, if they are given enough of it. Making them stronger, and mostly, striving for more power. Usually through more worship, and blood. Depends on the animal really. Turtles, sloths, rabbits- That kind rarely goes to the deep end, even if they are risen far. Bats, canines, and especially snakes though, are a different matter entirely.The one I described, were not one of those. They were worshipping something far older, and I would imagine, still do so, to this day."

Fuchsia can only agree, "Creatures should believe in themselves, not some silly fat rat saviour." she says with conviction. "If we get out of here... maybe we can save those poor eye Gnasher cultists, or at least stop it from getting more!" she stomps her forehoof on the floor to make a point, incensed, despite their current precarious predicament. 

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On 2021-03-18 at 10:03 PM, abrony-mouse said:

Fuchsia takes a deep breath and, holding out her spirit catcher, approaches the stag picture, but there is no chime as before in the water chamber. She inspects the picture, and especially the scorched area above the stag. "Me too... maybe they set traps to stop critters getting in." Fuchsia chuckles weakly. "Deer always seemed peaceful to me... to think that this ancient group are delving in dark magic. I wonder what they had hoped to do with the magic?"  

 

"Modern deer tends to be calm, friendly sorts, who might be tentative around others, but are as friendly as most aloof ponies, at worst.

Then sadly, are the tribal traditionalists. Highly isolated, does not tolerate outsiders, and generally are best left as alone, as they wish to be. It is hard to say what happens with those, as they are rarely tolerant of outsiders of any kind - including modern deer, who have been out in the world - but I would not be surprised if certain dark practices have been practices by at least some tribes. Especially in the olden days, when it were less well known, the amount of incredible price those things often took. I highly doubt even their most traditional tribes would care much about what we're seeing here, beyond wanting it destroyed. Which may have been what happened here? It is hard to say. The scorching seems rather old."

They'd soon enough be able to find themselves at the bottom of the trip down, yet for now, there were still more to traverse, as it seemed they were headed rather far down rigt now. How deep did this thing go?

Fuchsia gazes fearfully up to the picture of the black box, pondering Billowing's word. She had seen the power of the belief of sentient critters in her own path, and now she was seeing something even darker and more ancient. "W-we should keep moving. Maybe there's a passage upwards, somewhere around here." she moves past the picture and down the steps into the gloom, carrying the dram catcher in her mouth.

Eventually her hoof arrives at the bottom, crunching on what is unmistakably dry bone. Fuchsia stuff a hoof in her mouth to stop her mouth shrieking as her bauble picks out ivory shards in the gloom... the floor is virtually obscured by dry bones. 

[Blitz Boom 4,635]

@abrony-mouse

Billowing reacted with less shock and horror over the bones, yet he still visibly grimaced over the unwelcome surprise. This were not a good omen, yet as it might prove to be important to know more, he'd still lean down, and rummage through some of the old, dry bones.

"Nothing seems recent, so that is something at least. Yet the variance of species here are troubling. I see  deer, equine, canine, some hollow ones I assume are related to flying races of sorts, and animal bones of many, many kinds. Most of which I don't even know, but the implication is still troubling. We best move swiftly."

There was only one way forward, and that were through the bones, and towards the hall on the far end of this room. A simple enough task. Y'know, if not for the fact that some of the bones started to stir, as pale wisps entered some of the skulls, and had the associated parts begin to gather up again. Because that's what they needed right now. The undead.

Not that Billowing would notice at first. He'd be more focused on moving forward, up until the first ethereal moan came out behind them, and the skeleton of a deer stood risen, and blocking the way to the stairs.

"*sigh* Not again..."

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@Rising Dusk

When the mare of the manor entered, Lily had greeted her with a deep bow, and had been about to wish the mare a good morning, and fair tidings. It were just very hard to get out, due to her bombastic entrance, and performance hungry nature, that caused quite a spectacle to proceed. One that left Lily momentarily dumbfounded, and mute, even after it seemed done. She just looked at Dawn with utterly baffled confusion, while she tried to soak in what had just happened. It had been an effective way to rouse her up though, and make sure the witch paid attention. That much were certain.

"...Yes, it have been good. I... Yes."

Lily had lived through a lot, and seen more than most could claim, of those she knew of, but the way Dawn acted like the world were a stage, and she were the sole reason the spotlight existed, were still something she had not gotten used to. Especially not this out of nowhere. The theatrics yesterday were one thing, but it hadn't been this explosive, or chipper. In Harrowmark, if you got someone this loud into your house in the morning, it usually meant something bad had happened. Like one of the scarecrows having wandered off into the main town, or a few dozen risen had shambled into town.

"...My apologies, young lady. I did not expect such a morning greeting. I hope you rested well yourself.

Regarding breakfast, that would be appreciated. I assume you have a laundry list of information you'd like to ask now, that your brother is not there to supervise? Requests for literature as well, as I gave my word I'd hand over, when I had access to them myself? I'd say you had no need to be shy, but I get the distinct feeling that isn't a prominent part of your personality."

Regarding the bauble, there was not much to see. Just the wagon moving on, down a dirt road. Nothing of note seemed to be going on in there currently.

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@EQ_Theta

"Dark magic can be a destructive, cruel thing, with a sense of karma, when it comes to those abusing it. We know it well, and you have our condolences for you having to go through that. It is not a fate that should befall anypony.

Your second body we understand more. A close relative can act as a good host for a wayward spirit, and sometimes, it is as you say. Turns are taken. Most often, one spirit will just assert dominance, and quench the other one entirely, until removed, and those in your situation would most of the time, eventually grow mad due to the split persona's behavior and meddle wearing them down. It is good to see neither of you suffered through something like that.

Before you ask: We are not going to grow insane. We exist in harmony, with no need for dominance, or conflict. Yet this is a rare occurrence, and takes beings that are highly compatible. had we not always been as close as we are, it is likely that madness would eventually have crawled to us. We have much to be thankful for really.

Your current body though, is an interesting thing. You say that Omen's mother were able to purge you from his body? And even made you a new vessel? Is Omen's mother a stitcher perhaps? Like Soul, they can make bodies of compatible parts, and infuse them with spirits. Even if this seems far more than what he can do, it is the only comparison I can draw, as I would otherwise have to assume Omen were the offspring of some powerful creature. Like a draconequus, or actual deity. Perhaps a pagan goddess of some note? Those things can be tricky to define."

Banshee would look on with interest, as Lin showed off some of her features in more details. Such a peculiar way to have ended up, after what sounded like a horrid, testing trial of an adventure, for herself, her brother, and Omen. A pity she could not say where she had been cleansed, but it were likely one of the sacred places, which only the ones meant to, would be made aware of.

"Long as your path may have been though, it is a good thing that it seems it have all worked out in the end. Blessed be that outcome, even if you know not entirely of where it all took place. Though I can understand why. Some areas were never meant to be found, and when it is, it isn't to be repeated. It makes sense that it were taken from you.

May we also say, your webbing is very impressive, and quite fetching on you. You carry yourself with bravur."

Never a bad thing to give compliments, now were it? Doubly so when she meant it, as the webbings were nice. She had just assumed it were somewhat of a female longma thing, rather than a Lin specialty. Consider her educated.

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@Califorum

"If it weren't too invase, and didn't change someone permanently, then I suppose that would be okay. Maybe we should try and test it on some non-living things before we go on to offering it to others. Just to get an idea on what we have to work with, and how we might improve it. It'd probably not good to test it on somepony, or they could end up with three heads. Or something else. It's just the first thing that came to mind."

It were a little snag in the whole thing, but who were to say that they couldn't still somehow make it work? Just had to experiment, calibrate, and perfect it over time. It'd likely take months, if not years, but everything worth doing, tended to require some degree of effort and time. And it would give them something to worth towards, in more dull times, rather than have them wander aimlessly. Even if it wouldn't succeed, there were a lot of good to be said for having a goal.

On 2021-03-21 at 7:17 PM, Magnolia said:

Magnolia's ears perked up slightly at what Gretha had told of Nightmare Moon. "Truth be told...I always liked the story of Nightmare Moon...I see my self within Nightmare Moon...almost. I am sure Nightmare Moon would not have been a bad ruler but what we got is what we have. I always preferred night over day if I am honest. As for your friend...that is a very interesting story to tell, for sure. Was I here to see her return? Oh, yes I was. I actually...saw her in the flesh for a split second but when I realized I saw her she was gone. I had wanted to...to...to...speak to her. That was...my goal at the time, yes." 

"Night is not a bad thing in an by itself, but what then if it never ended? No sun means plants would die, and you'd starve. There are other things too, but this is the problem, little one. Day and night must cycle, or things won't end too well. And with one having a vendetta against daylight, I don't think Nightmare Moon would have cared much for this cycle.

And don't get ideas about trying to find this presence that overtook Luna. I have seen others seek out dark presences before, and it scarcely ends well for them, or those around them. Getting banished are among the least dangerous outcomes from something like that."

Deltrot were getting into view in the distance now. Towering buildings marking the grand city, though it were still too far off to make out many details, beyond it being rather large.

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-03-21 at 1:08 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"You are correct that it does not change anything between me and my mother, her actions have still happened, and I don't see why I should look past them for any reason." "It also may be that she is not aware of it herself, since I don't find it unlikely that they can disguise themselves as one of us with enough perfection to fool us." "My only wonder is why her from all dragons, certainly there was stronger and all the way better options out there, yet she has been the one at least twice now." she didn't believe it was a coincidence, because in her eyes, regardless of if it was an actual elder or a direct relative, it was unlikely that they would just randomly go around spreading their bloodline among a species like hers instead of picking and choosing.

"Maybe whoever your father is, loves her, and doesn't want to mate with any other? Even if she doesn't sound like she's one to want family, in the way that I know it, doesn't mean that there can't be some sort of connection between the two of them, that just only shows up whenever mating season comes around. Or maybe it's some kind of desire from his part? Either way, I don't think it's as simple as the way you've described how males and females deal with things in your country. I think there are some sort of feelings involved here, in whatever fashion."

A bit presumptuous perhaps, but what else were the reason for the same two dragons, having offspring like this? And one even being an elder? One like that, would have a lot of options, so there had to be something more to it than that, right?

Still, she was a romantic. She might be overthinking this to better fit that sort of viewpoint, and it were just a big coincidence, or the elder considered their mother as his property. Or she were just the closest. There could be many reasons, frankly.

It wouldn't be long after this, that they reached the calmer entrance to Canterlot, and a guard halted in the process of cleaning the guard shed to greet the incoming guests. There were a few other guards around too, but they would let this one talk, as he had been the quickest one.

"Hail, friends. What brings you to our fair capitol on this grand day?"

Seemed like a very chipper one, compared to the last one that had been here.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"T-There's no rush, no worries. I'm staying here for the next w-week or so anyway, since Granny Smith and I have a lot to talk about, and if it takes longer than that, we can just uhm... I'll get you a letter to show them then. That should hopefully do the trick. I think? Again, I've never been there. I just know where it is.

And the definition of a pagan god is a little iffy. Your immortality might be something that happened when you became one, and your followers long since died out. Even if there's no longer belief to give you power, it doesn't mean you will just vanish. But a-again, that's just a suggestion. I'm not sure if it's this, or just some kind of undeath I'm not used to. I don't usually get out a whole lot."

One more thing that made this trek to the homeland such a nervous thing for her. She were used to sating at home, and not having to deal much with the outside world, beyond what might shamble into the orchard, or the somewhat locals, coming around for the produce they paid for. Or well, their couriers at least. Most didn't like going there in person. A little creepy for them apparently.

"It's a weird costume you have though. Are you sure that's not some kind of deity thing?"

"A draconequus caused it earlier today, after we won a game of hers."

"O-Oh. That's... Yeah, that d-doesn't sound like it would have been fun. But at least you won. You're not uhm... I-It didn't hurt you, right?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-03-21 at 1:08 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Few generations ago you wouldn't have been far from the truth, our kind was very popular as slaves, because while we are small, we are known to be very industrious and we can do more with less food and rest." "But now machines have replaced slaves in most things, as they do more faster and need no rest or food, though it was never outlawed" "That doesn't mean it's great, the comment about ending up as your slave was not a joke." not being owned by someone didn't mean you were necessarily free

"You needn't worry about that as it is. Even if I still had a need for servants - which i do not - I wouldn't have taken you. Regardless of how Industrious you may be, I don't know if you could be safely fed upon, and in that case it would simply be pointless to take you over a pony, as an example."

Very comforting that she evaluated things over the safety of both work and feeding, wasn't it? Likely didn't help that she didn't specify who she were concerned about the feeding being dangerous for. Her hive, or them. Might be best to not search for an honest answer to that.

On 2021-03-21 at 1:08 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"And yes, our education may be lacking from your point of view, but our parents and others from our community taught us exactly what we needed to know, we never saw the history we were taught as a correct one, it was just something you needed to know, in fact, the official story had false information about our species too, so it was very clear there was some....rewording of things." "And no mind tricks, I rather read for rest of my life tha...just no."

"You should always take any written history with a grain of salt. I find it is hardly ever truthful, but rather biased against who the author did not agree with. A good, neutral source is sadly hard to come by these days.

And As I said: You would not like my methods for escalating your learning. I would find you somewhat crazed and desperate if you thought it a good idea, quite frankly. Your vehement decline of it, just tells me that you have not gone mad."

On 2021-03-21 at 1:08 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

While it is true that our knowledge of many things is limited, comparing your Nightmare Moon to ours is not necessarily the correct way to look at things, because while I won't claim her to be perfect, everyone knows that's not true, she didn't get defeated, that already makes them different." "And as Sheska said, we rather read the information ourselves, and don't worry, you don't need to tell us to be critical of written history, you don't become a rebel by trusting your rulers." he was interested in getting to read some of this places history just to compare it to theirs.

"Lastly, we have no reason to ask the guard about these elements, it matter to us none if they exist or not, the point mainly was that regardless of how much we dislike him, from us three he knows the most, we are mere civilians in that regard, even if we know bit more than the average civilian." 

"It sounds as if you have a good grasp on how to approach information then. I can imagine it will serve you well, in the times ahead. I can't say for certain if anything the half-pony will have to contribute with, are as wise to take into consideration, but I suppose, as it does not seem as if we are done with him, it will if nothing else, pass some time with trivia. If it holds any merit, we will have to wait and see.

Regardless, what are your short term plans then? Where goes the first step after this? You wish to make yourself known to the princess?"

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@Theocatra

"Even for us, her sight is sublime. It traverses dimensions, and all aspects of time. Her sight might help find an answer for you. Provided she has what she needs for her brew."

Traversing the forest, seemed to go fairly smooth for now. There were a few sounds of critter, and the occasional bird of course though. A sparrow. Couple of flying rabbits, chasing hummingbirds- Y'know, the usual stuff. Wouldn't really get much weird until they got to a tree that would reach down to grab them as they tried to pass, and if successful in getting hold of SIlicon, would open its trunk up, and put her in there. Soon as the trunk closed up again, she'd then find herself in a lit bathroom, complete with running water, and a toothbrush.

The Everfree Forest were getting weird again.

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@Neoeryn

On 2021-03-18 at 3:12 PM, Neoeryn said:

"Oh! Uh, I don't think I was the cause of that... sorry lil guy. Huh, this place isn't anything like the Everfree... instead of trying to hurt others, these plants act as if it's the other way around.."

Fright would lean down and gently hold the withered plant, that Calamity had touched previously.

"The power to wither, with touch alone. Powerful energy child. Yet I have faith that in time, the flowers will welcome you, as they did me."

She'd let go of the plant again, and begin to look to the east, which led further into the massive forest.

On 2021-03-18 at 3:12 PM, Neoeryn said:

"I think I'm ready.

While we're heading there, you don't mind telling me about what you know about Discord, do you? He's told me he was redeemed after trying to take over Ponyville, but he's never told me anything else about what he's done.. You don't happen to know about Catrina's amulet... right? It was the one Tirek had used, but I'm not sure how he got a hold of it. Even Twilight was stumped. Discord seemed to know quite a bit about it, and it seemed to look familiar to me.. but I'm not sure why. I don't even know how Dis knew about it, as he never tells me anything. Always speaking in stupid jokes and nonsense phras-"

"I know much of Discord, dear child. He may have been one of the first of our kind to sprawl forth, when harmony and life came into the world, but many of us came not many centuries later. I for one, came to be because of Discord, even if he did not mean it to be so. He were simply playing a grand trick on a major population, and amid the chaos and fear, I shambled out of the shadows. You would be surprised how many of us were not born, but made by the act of another, even if it is less so now. Chaos does not flow as freely through the air as it once did, so it would take more than a minor accident in this time.

Discord and I however, did not mingle often. We wanted different things. He to have fun, and spread chaos amongst others, and thinking that it were just entertainment. And then there were me. Hunting for the scared, and feasting merely on their fears and nightmares. I made no delusion that it were not a kind way of acting, but it were all that I knew, and how I thought I were supposed to be. It were my nature after all. Just as his were guiding his actions.

There is not much I can tell of Discord though, as said. I know he were venerated among our kind, for being old and powerful, as well are more approachable than Mortimer ever were. In a sense, you could look at him as our *leader*, even if we did not have such a structure. He were just the one who had the most chaos, so often we looked to him to solve disputes, if any arose. As you can imagine, it often developed into silly games, until we got bored with the argument we began with, and just went on with things, as if nothing had happened.

The amulet you speak of, is not one I am aware of, sadly. I know only of Tirek's medallion, in the sense that it have a connection to his brother. Beyond that, I sadly know little. Due to the way he functioned, I had no interest in nearing Tirek, and risking him harvesting some of my magic. I would not wish to know what one such as him, would do with the power of fear.

But I do know some stories. You are free to pick one, of three topics: Vengeance, Governing, or Servitude. Pick one wisely, as I will test you before revealing more. Consider stories of this past of his, to be your reward for progression."

Whilst talking, she would wander down the hill, and into the darkened brush of the forest. She were still not touching the ground as she walked, but just the dripping lily pads, and she seemed too move effortlessly through. Mostly by not going literally through bushes, when she could go above it, or to the side. She could also remove it, due to what she were, but she would prefer this forest remained pleasant.

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@Califorum @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

On 2021-03-18 at 5:49 PM, Cali said:

Cali smirks at Molotov's comments. "Definitely sounds like some illusions are going on here. Perhaps we can investigate. Besides, I don't even have to be a rocket for you. I could be a plane, a bird, anything really. I am sure I can get us high enough. This world is very strange, it operates like none other place I have seen. I believe that they simply fluctuate and manipulate the light of the real sun and moon to make it seem like they are moving, when such things are utterly impossible to move. Where I am from, the sun is roughly 100 times the diameter of the entire planet, while the Moon is roughly 1/60th the mass and about a quarter the size. Perhaps here, they are merely balls of light and magic rather than physical places. The Sun, at least my sun holds billions of nuclear explosions every second..." she smirks at her knowledge.

Molotov were certainly listening in on this. In fact, he had even withdrawn some paper from one of the pockets in his belt, along with a pen, and were scribbling down what she were telling him. 

What? This was class A scientific information, that wasn't directly destroying the world as he knew it. No way he'd let that just go to waste. Nuhuh. He'd gather the intel, and have it locked up with the other stuff, and let whatever astrologist he had to deliver to, get the notes on this. What they decided to do with it, were none of his business. Though he'd keep a copy, because duh, of course he would.

"Yeah, see? That's what a lot of the sceptics are on about too. The sun's this little ball that can be kept in the castle, without burning anything, and yet it can give off enough light and heat to warm us, give us light, and help plants grow? Now what you're describing, that sounds more like it. And it also sounds like something that'll one day engulf the entire planet, but y'know, astrologists are a bunch of doomsday sayers. If we aren't getting melted by the sun, or flooded, it's a meteor smashing into the planet, and cracking it in half like an egg. They got no chill, whatsoever. At least the microbiologists know how to cut loose, and make rainbow-colored dream fungi, or some other weird stuff, just for the giggles. Granted, one time it ended up melting their lab equipment, and ate the power core, but eh. Can't go right every time, or it ain't science."

On 2021-03-18 at 5:49 PM, Cali said:

"I am sure Light and I will find common ground more or less, as we both ended up here on accident it seems. I don't care about leaving or going anywhere...as for this pony you call Twilight Sparkle I would like to meet her in person. she seems rather interesting to me." Cali smirks. "I am sure her and I would like to talk about this space stuff you know? I know a lot more but I don't wish to blow your mind with the details."

"I like stuff that goes kaboom! Ehehehe."

Blitz were clapping her little hooves. Mind blown weren't the sort of thing she usually dealt with, but it included blowing up something, so ergo she liked it. Perfect sense, right?

"The princess is walking around ponyville lots. I bet you could run into her, and you could talk science stuff. She's a smart pony, and smells of lavender."

What had the smell to do with anything? Nothing. Potentially everything, but likely nothing at all.

"And good that you're not leaving. There's lots of fun stuff in Equestria, like throwing grenades at timberwolves, or candyfloss. Do you like candy? Uuuh, I bet you like the real sticky stuff, right? Like toffee. Toffee's good. Especially salted caramel. Pinkie Pie sometimes gave me that. I kept it as special snacks, for when I completed real important work, or had a less fun day. Like the day there was a leak in the roof, and my gunpowder got wet! That was no fun."

It seemed she had a rambling filly at hoof. Certainly, Cali must be utterly thrilled.

On 2021-03-18 at 10:05 PM, Kujamih said:

Cali was telling everyone how impossible to move the sun, and Light smirked at Cali and said.

"... I don't know Cali... I mean you are able to do much more impossible things than raising the sun or moon. You are able to transform into something bigger or smaller than you. You can change your elemental structures into different things like turn into wood metal tungsten etc. You yourself can turn into a very powerful bomb and still live... Well it has a very bad side effect for you BUT still live. I even saw you once turn some of your dead skin into shurikens...."

"Wait, you can turn your skin into shurikens? Bwahahaha! Awh man, that's both gross and awesome.

Dude, what else can she do? Come on. Everypony's already looking at us like we're crazy, so what that, right? Let's hear it.

Or wait, what can You do, actually? You're deflecting here, but I wanna know what crazy sort you can do too, Light. Like, do you fire lasers? Are you able to fold yourself into more pieces? What parts can be dethatched, and can they be put back together wrong?"

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

@Califorum @Blitz BoomBoom @Windy Breeze

" Molotov.... You do know I'm NOT a robot.... Im more of a pony who has a lot of artifacts.... Thats attached inside my body..... Okay maybe a cyborg.. but more flesh than machine.... I mean you don't call someone a robot or cyborg just by having a heartphaser." 

Molotov asked Light about their abilities.

And light would ponder a bit before answering.

" If its Cali.... everything....she can do everthing... As for me... I have 10 cutiemarks."

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Silica would just narrowly dodge the living tree, "That was close" she'd say, spotting the poison joke near Zecora's just in time to pull Orchid back "Careful, you nearly stepped in the poison joke" she cautions, "and look, that must be Zecora's hut"

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom

I saw no remorse and pity in Cimex's cold eyes. Was she trying to hide her true emotion? She shrugged “I've long accepted my loss. Any loss are just part of my life and I've grown up to easily accept them. After all, life doesn't live up forever” I didn't say a word, only when she left the room and the gloomy atmosphere dissipated did I spoke up.

“Poor Cimex” I sighed.

“She's still trying to cope with her loss by living in a solitary life” Tepe turned to Razor, “Have she ever show this atticude to you?"

“I feel distate in the air, but she never ever said something like that to me. She doesn't smile very often but she does sometimes hang out with me and Autumn” Razor replied.

Edited March 24, 2021 by Windy Breeze

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom @Califorum @Kujamih 

2 hours ago, Cali said:

So theres not only 2 princesses but 3? What does this one represent? Knowledge or something? She sounds very knowledgeable. Also smells of lavendar...I'd like to smell that. You ponies are all so soft, squishy and look like pillows to me if I am honest. I like candy but it tastes better when dipped in kerosene with a hint of bleach? Or are you talking about normal candy? I like pretty much everything honestly in terms of food as long as I'm not eating dead bodies or anything."

Blue looked away with dreamy grin complete with a shade of pink on her cheeks. While cringing at the thought of eating dead bodies, Luna piped in “There's actually four princess: Celestia and Luna, the sisters represents the sun and the moon and are the officiall rulers of Equestria. Twilight Sparkle, the princess of friendship. And Princess Cadance, the princess of Love and the ruler of the Crystal Empire. We also have Prince Blueblood and Prince Shining Armor if unicorns count” she said matter-of-factly.

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

@Blitz Boom @Windy Breeze @Califorum

 Light was a bit confused and relieved at the same time.

"... Hmm you don't know what a cutie mark is and yet you have one, whats more interesting is your lack of knowledge of Equestria.... And especially your hate towards the princesses.....you have none."

[Neoeryn 196]

@Blitz Boom

Quote

"The power to wither, with touch alone. Powerful energy child. Yet I have faith that in time, the flowers will welcome you, as they did me."

"I-I hope so. I mean, I'm not worried about them welcoming me too much. I suppose.. I still feel really bad for it."

Calamity would watch as Fright held the flower, it seeming to spring back to life and relax at her touch.

Quote

"I know much of Discord, dear child. He may have been one of the first of our kind to sprawl forth, when harmony and life came into the world, but many of us came not many centuries later. I for one, came to be because of Discord, even if he did not mean it to be so. He were simply playing a grand trick on a major population, and amid the chaos and fear, I shambled out of the shadows. You would be surprised how many of us were not born, but made by the act of another, even if it is less so now. Chaos does not flow as freely through the air as it once did, so it would take more than a minor accident in this time."

"Huh.. I guess he must be really old. If he's the most well known to be the oldest, then it could possibly be so. I'm not sure exactly how I came to be, but Discord referred to my magic as 'catastrophe magic.' He sorta said it was a type no draconequus would ever want to be associated with, and that even he doesn't know how to make it work. But it could be another one of his little stories to frighten me."

Quote

"There is not much I can tell of Discord, as said. I know he were venerated among our kind, for being old and powerful, as well are more approachable than Mortimer ever were. In a sense, you could look at him as our *leader*, even if we did not have such a structure. He were just the one who had the most chaos, so often we looked to him to solve disputes, if any arose. As you can imagine, it often developed into silly games, until we got bored with the argument we began with, and just went on with things, as if nothing had happened."

Calamity would keep this in mind, remembering all the pranks he had pulled on everyone, and had tried to get her into the habit of. He had even tried to get into the school, just to pull pranks on her club. 

"Yeah! I mean, we've gotten into a few arguments, but it wasn't anything bad. Usually it would end up with us throwing milk clouds and frosting at each other. Even if he does get on my nerves, he does tend to lighten the mood.

We.. really only got into an argument about the books he always showed me. While the books said one thing, he would always say the total opposite, like he knew the history and actually experienced it.

I'm sure he did! It would just be great if he told me the truth.. The amule- Tirek's medallion, I heard has great power, or according to Dis. I'm not sure how he knows where it even came from.

I do remember meeting Tirek once. I don't remember how or why, but it's one thing I haven't been able to get of my mind, and I don't ever dare tell Discord. He's told me of their past with each other, and I don't want to risk anything. It's more of a faint memory than anything.

I remember.. just us and Tartarus. Maybe it actually happened, or it could just be my mind creating false memories to fill in the ones I may be missing.. but I can't help but feel it's actually happened, like there's some sort of familiarity surrounding his name. I think I may have been locked away... or I think he might've been. It's hard to tell."

If this wasn't a memory, then what was it? Why and how would she remember someone who's been turned to stone for centuries? Unless, she was older than she had thought, and she actually had met him. Even if she wasn't sure why it suddenly popped into her mind, she knew that he wouldn't ever find a way to escape. Not with a Princess as amazing as Twilight. 

Quote

The amulet you speak of, is not one I am aware of, sadly. I know only of Tirek's medallion, in the sense that it have a connection to his brother. Beyond that, I sadly know little. Due to the way he functioned, I had no interest in nearing Tirek, and risking him harvesting some of my magic. I would not wish to know what one such as him, would do with the power of fear.

But I do know some stories. You are free to pick one, of three topics: Vengeance, Governing, or Servitude. Pick one wisely, as I will test you before revealing more. Consider stories of this past of his, to be your reward for progression."

"O-oh well, thank you! I suppose I'll go with.. Vengeance. It just stands out among the others I suppose?

I guess they all sound interesting, but Vengeance seems to.. click, if that makes sense?"

And with that, Calamity started to relax somehow, listening to the stories which Fright were to tell her.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“Thanks, Banshee. I don’t think I’ve ever found a use for my webbing like this. Maybe a party trick, or probably something like special effects for Nightmare Night? Might be fun to whip up a scare!” 

“As for your other question, Mother is a lot more than a stitcher. She is powerful, but… I…”

She paused for a moment, hoping she might have the right words to say. To her Omen’s mother is just Mother, a source of comfort and strength, someone whom she’d felt close to, as she was family. It felt strange not knowing a lot more, but in a way, Lin didn’t want to intrude too much on Mother’s personal details. It keeps the mysterious aspects as they are, and knowing the kind of danger they already found themselves in before, it would be preferable to let some things remain unknown. 

"I’m sorry; I can’t say more. Please understand that I do this out of concern for her. I’ve seen the danger of others knowing about her, and I don’t want that to happen.”

Sen looked on and listened, evoking some painful memories. Their adventures were no doubt dangerous, but bringing that kind of danger to Mother and her children was something the siblings hoped to never repeat. It’s only now sunk in to the longma that they would have to consider the long-term consequences of the trouble they’d find themselves in. Running back to Mother all the time isn’t always a good idea, and they would need to rely more on finding solutions without putting someone they care about in jeopardy. 

“I’m not sure if I recall mentioning this when we met earlier, but I noticed there’s a theme going on with your family’s names, Banshee,” Sen chimed in, taking the conversation in another direction. “Is it a tradition or was it something picked up by the family at some point?”

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom @Califorum @Kujamih

Luna narrowed her eyes at Cali, trying to intimidate her “Don't you speak of the princesses like that. I might be a foreigner in this land but I worked for the royalty. It is confirmed Princess Twilight Sparkle saved Equestria a large number of times from their enemies”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby didn't continue on the topic since they were starting to near other creatures, but she didn't fully agree with Leviathan, mostly because she knew her mother, and because as much as she didn't like it, she was like her mother in many ways, the fact that she had never seen, heard of, or even smelled who her father was also didn't help to make it more possible, since one would think that if there was any feelings between her parents, certainly the father would have wanted, and been let to see his own offspring.

It also still didn't answer one question, how did they meet in the first place, the Homelands weren't a place where you just stumbled upon someone, so why would several powerful dragons meet the same dragon? Until of course she and Charir did have the same father, though that would only bring up even more questions considering their differences. Ruby made a mental not to think about this at some point when she got the chance to be in peace.

She put up a friendly act as they got closer to the entrance, quite the convincing one too, it turns out she could be friendly if she just decided to. "Business and meeting with a friend." she stated, her tone best described as professional friendliness, Charir was bit put off by the sudden friendliness, even with him being able to tell it was an act. "And as I expect that the question is coming, we use this entrance because I'm babysitting someone who is better off if we avoid crowds as much as possible."

Charir looked up at the guard with curiosity and wariness visible in his eyes, and if any of the guards tried to touch him, or really even came close, they would get a growl and small cloud of hot smoke, not hot enough to burn, but hot enough to be unpleasant, and Ruby would say something along the lines of him not liking strangers.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I cannot feel pain." Scarecrow stated "Only real negative thing for me personally was annoyance, and even that will fade away as my memories of the event blur." in his opinion Lyriel got the worse side of the coin in that game, but he couldn't speak for her "And the letter will work, though not necessary necessarily, as long as I know where to go, I can speak for myself." assuming of course he didn't lose his mind before that, but not only was that unlikely at this point, he most likely would care to go anymore in the first place if he did. 

For the deity thing he just shrugged, he didn't believe it to be the case, but he couldn't really disprove it either. 

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

Onache's evaluation didn't shock the siblings as much as one may think, and would only get a dismissive shrug as a reaction, in fact, they understood where she was coming from, they may not have been certain of what kind of feeding she was talking about, but they understood how they could be unfit to that, both for their own and the feeder's safety in mind, especially considering that they were a unknown species for most in this place. 

"I don't think we need to make ourselves known, the guard knowing to come here tells that the word has spread already, and even if it hasn't, it's safe to assume that he has informed the princess of our presence." that was also ignoring that it had been stated that Solar has been told to keep an eye on them, implying that someone in power knows already, and while they didn't trust him, one thing they knew was true, he was serving whoever was the ruler, because they knew he wouldn't know how to live without being a servant. 

"I think that after we are given a word from the doctor that we can leave, assuming we don't get picked up by guards or someone else, we need to just look around and see where we are." "If the guard is telling the truth, we're probably stuck here, so we need to get used to things, not that it's necessarily a bad thing." "So I guess the plan is to go outside and see what happens." it was hard to plan anything with the little information they had. And they wanted doctor's word because as distrusting as they were, even in their world doctors generally were honest individuals, that and they could tell excuse from a real reason, so they would know if a doctor was trying to keep them there for no reason.

 

[Blitz Boom 4,635]

@EQ_Theta

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

"I’m sorry; I can’t say more. Please understand that I do this out of concern for her. I’ve seen the danger of others knowing about her, and I don’t want that to happen.”

Sen looked on and listened, evoking some painful memories. Their adventures were no doubt dangerous, but bringing that kind of danger to Mother and her children was something the siblings hoped to never repeat. It’s only now sunk in to the longma that they would have to consider the long-term consequences of the trouble they’d find themselves in. Running back to Mother all the time isn’t always a good idea, and they would need to rely more on finding solutions without putting someone they care about in jeopardy. 

“I’m not sure if I recall mentioning this when we met earlier, but I noticed there’s a theme going on with your family’s names, Banshee,” Sen chimed in, taking the conversation in another direction. “Is it a tradition or was it something picked up by the family at some point?”

"You don't have to explain, if you think it is best for her that you don't. But next you meet her, do please tell her that there are those who values and respects death, that praises her skills and compassion. With the power you imply she has, we understand that you don't want to risk saying too much. The power to reap from the living with ease, and remake bodies, are one that would be abused, if somepony truly evil wanted to get to her.

And yes, it is a tradition with our names. With our long legacy of death, it is custom to give our foals a somewhat morose name, or at least one connected to death in some way.

It isn't always done though. We don't marry within our family, and not everypony that we may end up marrying, are keen on our names. usually there is some compromise, but other times, the morose is skipped over. Unless it is a filly. One way or another, we will gain a name associated with death, though it doesn't have to be all that dark sounding. Some of our cousins are named things like Pale Rider, Floaty McClowny, Eulogy Violinist, and Doll Dancer.

Then there are those like Soul Prison. His mother is a very, Very strict traditionalist, and his father a meek farmer. He didn't try to fight her, when she wanted to name him according to tradition. According to mom, she said she had originally another name in mind, but it came to her the first time that Soul opened his eyes, and stared into hers. He were pretty intense even then, apparently.

We also have mixed family names sometimes. We were told by Tomb, when she came around with our drinks, that we finally know the name of the mare who is of both us, and the Apple family. Lives in another country, but she and her parents are apparently coming to visit one of these days. She's called Bloody Ploughman. Apparently that's an apple sort too.

How does names work for your kind, actually? Sen and Lin does not sound like it references anything."

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

 

@Windy Breeze

"Some beings have a hard time to really express grief, or have just locked themselves off from feeling too connected to others, because they don't want to feel hurt when they pass. I am concerned for her, but we can't force her to cry over this out of nowhere. Maybe we should just give her some time."

It were a little... Disconcerting, to not see more of a reaction to this, but it might really just be this. They shouldn't jump to the worst, possible conclusion like that so early on, right?

"Anyway, if Razor trust her enough, I think we should try and believe in him some, before we jump to really bad conclusions. For now, maybe it's best to think of what to do, moving forward here? My uncle is going to grow nervous when we don't show up later, but they'll likely go and watch to see if we got there, so I'll just have to send a message to him when I can. I think it's probably best if we get out of town soon. I imagine you'd still want to be here, and try and deal with them though, right Razor? I'll make sure to send word back home, and have one of the stronger of my family come by and help you, soon as they can. This is way above my pay grade.

Windy? Do you have any sort of ideas on how we get out of town, and when it might be best? Perhaps you've seen a good way somewhere before we met, Tepe?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

3 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Business and meeting with a friend." she stated, her tone best described as professional friendliness, Charir was bit put off by the sudden friendliness, even with him being able to tell it was an act. "And as I expect that the question is coming, we use this entrance because I'm babysitting someone who is better off if we avoid crowds as much as possible."

"Sounds reasonable to me. I'd keep to the side roads if you prefer not to deal with crowds. You can avoid main street too that way, if you take a left behind Gin and Tonic's Brewery, and cross the intersection when there isn't a train coming. Stay westward after that, and you can cross safely, and without too many looking.

Mind me asking though, what are your role in this, miss?"

He'd point at Leviathan, who'd let out a small snort, that pulsed a weak line of smoke with it. A little performance thing that always seemed to spell out *tough dragon* for ponies, for some reason.

"Protection detail."

The guards neglected to try and near Charir as that were said, as they got the gist from that, and the stony stare she gave towards them.

"Everything's in order then. Just try and stay out of trouble, and welcome to Canterlot."

The chipper guard would give them a salute, and a big smile, while the others moved away, giving them a clear path to wander into the more silent part of Canterlot.

Once they were far enough from them, Leviathan would let out a small chuckle, and shake her head.

"I swear, some days I wonder how they lived around dragons so long, and still don't get that smoke doesn't always mean we are about to fry them.

So, where exactly are we headed here? You do know where the house is, yes?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

3 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I cannot feel pain." Scarecrow stated "Only real negative thing for me personally was annoyance, and even that will fade away as my memories of the event blur." in his opinion Lyriel got the worse side of the coin in that game, but he couldn't speak for her "And the letter will work, though not necessary necessarily, as long as I know where to go, I can speak for myself."

"I'm sure you can, but... N-Never hurts to be sure, right? A little message might go a long way. But it's your decision, of course. Of course... B-But if you want to take me up on it one of these days, you know where I'll be, right? Think about it at least, please."

"We will. But we have much to think about now it seems. And I would prefer not to speak of the draconequus and her game. It were not a pleasant experience, regardless of the price that may come from it. I felt blinded and torn asunder."

Lyriel grimaced some as she recalled the emptiness she had felt in that game, and the longing to be whole once more. Bloody did not ask more in to things upon seeing this, and would just nod, before grabbing hold of Rusty, and getting back to the main farm house.

"It sounds as if this risk of yours, have paid off. But we must prepare for what lies ahead then, as you said yourself, to avoid issues in the times ahead. What way would you prefer to practice first? I would be pleased to do anything I can, to help your progress."

Flapping down from a nearby tree, Crow would land on Scarecrow before she were done talking, and the costume would once again be whole. It didn't seem like it were free roaming time anymore.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

4 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I don't think we need to make ourselves known, the guard knowing to come here tells that the word has spread already, and even if it hasn't, it's safe to assume that he has informed the princess of our presence." that was also ignoring that it had been stated that Solar has been told to keep an eye on them, implying that someone in power knows already, and while they didn't trust him, one thing they knew was true, he was serving whoever was the ruler, because they knew he wouldn't know how to live without being a servant. 

"I think that after we are given a word from the doctor that we can leave, assuming we don't get picked up by guards or someone else, we need to just look around and see where we are." "If the guard is telling the truth, we're probably stuck here, so we need to get used to things, not that it's necessarily a bad thing." "So I guess the plan is to go outside and see what happens."

"Perhaps he has, but I assumed she may still wait for you to come to her. Regardless, if the plan is to see the town, then let us see if you are safe to leave then."

Her horn glowed, and not five seconds later, a doctor that she had kept at bay a few times, would enter the room. A simple, grey coated stallion, with a buzz-cut, and long, poofy tail in pale green.

"Apologies for not coming by sooner to check up on you. I needed to supervise a few other patients, and thought you were stable, so it would be okay. I see that wasn't wrong. You seem livelier already."

He'd flip through the clipboard he carried, until he found the page with them, and looked over a few things.

"Hmmm... Yes A few bruised bones, and minor muscle strain. The main issues when you were admitted, were dehydration, signs of starvation, and severe fatigue. You seem to be greatly improving on those points, so if you want, I can sign you out, and send you along with a minor bottle of pain medication, in case something flares up. That is, if you are supervised for a few days, just in case something pops up. As you took them in madamme, I am assuming you are somepony that cares about them,. and could keep an eye on them?"

"Correct. I'm a... Friend of theirs, and can transport them here with haste, if something does worsen."

"Excellent. But I'd still like to know first, if any of my patients may have any questions before we sign you out? Or concerns maybe? If need be, I can run a few more tests, if you are uncertain about something."

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

 

@Theocatra

Orchid's reaction to what just happened now, were at first confusion, then letting out a big, hearty laughter as he had been pulled back.

"You need to have no concern, we are nowhere to where we yearn. That is nu hut, nor this a poison joke's bud. As a biologist, I can assure you of this."

He'd push forth again, and grab one of the flowers. At which point it'd dissipate into glitter, with a small, filly-like giggle roaming through the air.

He'd then pick up a stone, then throw it at the hut, to find that it would fall backwards, as it were simply a cardboard cutout.

"We are in a zone of oddities. A playground of trickeries. Not made by you or I, but perhaps I would guess, a draconequui.

A telltale sign is how little we went to find Zecora's domicile, which would not be this close to town, as she likes to work peacefully, and without bad words and bile. Zebras are not all fondly thought of sadly, so for one such as her, distance would be welcomed gladly.

Let us procede, though beware: I don't think this is the last time we need to heed, the creatures want to ensnare."

They'd still need to go some way before they would find Zecora's hut. Doubly so if she had it shielded by illusions, to avoid unwarranted guests. Not always she were in a mood to talk, nor had time.

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

 

@Neoeryn

21 hours ago, Neoeryn said:

"I-I hope so. I mean, I'm not worried about them welcoming me too much. I suppose.. I still feel really bad for it."

Calamity would watch as Fright held the flower, it seeming to spring back to life and relax at her touch.

"Do not feel wrong for feeling bad, dear child. It means you have empathy, for even the smallest of creations. This is a good thing, as it proves you have your heart in the right place."

21 hours ago, Neoeryn said:

"Huh.. I guess he must be really old. If he's the most well known to be the oldest, then it could possibly be so. I'm not sure exactly how I came to be, but Discord referred to my magic as 'catastrophe magic.' He sorta said it was a type no draconequus would ever want to be associated with, and that even he doesn't know how to make it work. But it could be another one of his little stories to frighten me."

"I cannot say if he is the oldest exactly. There were some dispute between him, Mortimer, and one whom I never met, nor heard much about. But he is certainly among the oldest.

And we are wary of those who have more power to destroy, than play. It is one of the reasons why as I told you, we banded together to seal away Rebirth. Destruction, calamity, plague, and so forth, are not what we wish to be known for, as we are not usually cruel gods, bent on destruction. We are but higher beings, wanting to toy with the world. Power meant to decimate it, are not something we ever wish to harness, but we will find a path for you, dear child. I have faith."

22 hours ago, Neoeryn said:

"Yeah! I mean, we've gotten into a few arguments, but it wasn't anything bad. Usually it would end up with us throwing milk clouds and frosting at each other. Even if he does get on my nerves, he does tend to lighten the mood.

We.. really only got into an argument about the books he always showed me. While the books said one thing, he would always say the total opposite, like he knew the history and actually experienced it.

I'm sure he did! It would just be great if he told me the truth.. The amule- Tirek's medallion, I heard has great power, or according to Dis. I'm not sure how he knows where it even came from.

I do remember meeting Tirek once. I don't remember how or why, but it's one thing I haven't been able to get of my mind, and I don't ever dare tell Discord. He's told me of their past with each other, and I don't want to risk anything. It's more of a faint memory than anything.

I remember.. just us and Tartarus. Maybe it actually happened, or it could just be my mind creating false memories to fill in the ones I may be missing.. but I can't help but feel it's actually happened, like there's some sort of familiarity surrounding his name. I think I may have been locked away... or I think he might've been. It's hard to tell."

"...Tirek have been sealed away for a long time, within Tartarus. It may be that you witnessed that at some point, and have since then forgotten. That your memories seems fractured are tragic, yet it is not unheard of for us. Especially not the olden ones. The longer we live, the greater the chance of our minds getting affected, if we are not cautious. And even then, we may accidentally end up afflicting ourselves. Sometimes, not so much by accident. Some have things they'd prefer to forget, and little qualms about taking it out themselves."

This were troubling to hear, as it held quite a bit of implications, but she would reserve judgement. It may not be as bad as it sounded, and she should hold an open mind towards this one of her kin. Even if she were once worse, they all had the ability to change, if they put in the effort.

23 hours ago, Neoeryn said:

"O-oh well, thank you! I suppose I'll go with.. Vengeance. It just stands out among the others I suppose?

I guess they all sound interesting, but Vengeance seems to.. click, if that makes sense?"

And with that, Calamity started to relax somehow, listening to the stories which Fright were to tell her.

"There were a time, when Discord had a friend. A close one, not of our kin, but of the dragons. This tiny, broken form, groveling at the feet of his elders, and getting kicked around for being a whimp. Discord took him away, for reasons only he knew, and brought him to our lands. There, the little one thrived. He reveled in chaos, and the simplicity in not having to understand how to world works, and he adored Discord greatly. To some, I suppose he could be seen as a pet of sorts, but I saw him as nothing more than an enthusiastic youth, enjoying the first spot of freedom in his life.

Then one day, he did not return from one of his trips, and Discord went searching. He found nothing. He either asked, or demanded others of us to join in, and we too did not find him. Yet, after searching far and wide, I did manage to find one who feared Discord, with the dragon in mind, and followed him. A pompous centaur, who led me to a cave, where I found the poor dragon to have become a trophy of his.

When Discord were told, he became furious, and rained vengeance down upon not just that centaur, but most of those who dared to stand with him. Along with any who might be near enough to suffer the wrath, deserving or not.

He were lost in this wrath, until he eventually came to his senses, and returned to bury his little friend properly. From his body, sprung a pulsating, scaled tree, and until he were sealed in stone, Discord did not not it wither, nor suffer any hardships. In his honor, I took the tree when he fell in Equestria, and now ensures that it is cared for, until it blooms in full. What happens from there, I could not tell. Long term, ingrained chaos are hard to predict the effect of. Especially with the condition the poor thing were in, when he were found.

As for the centaurs... As said, he were lost in wrath. From that sprung another draconequus, who kept this going for long, as their endless adversary. A fight they have to degree won, but know that indirectly, Discord is at fault for their race being as scarce as they are. All in pursuit of vengeance, which far overreached what had been taken. This is why you do not incur his ire. It does not end well, when you stir the one who already gets simply lost in emotion, and holds power that rivals that of true gods."

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

 

@Califorum

On 2021-03-23 at 10:00 PM, Magnolia said:

"Sounds like a perfect plan really. I could become a good fashion designer then maybe? Using the shadows as my helpers...and then hunt down those who threaten others who were far worse than I ever was? Sounds good...sounds good to me. But how about you? Does that sound good to you? Changing things other than myself into shadows though, I can't say I've done that before honestly. How I describe it as, I just...fade away into a mist. I can see everything perfectly, it's not a spell...I've grown so used to it to the point where I just change form at will, see?" Magnolia said as her body would suddenly shift away into a black mist.

The black mist swirls around Zeehva a bit, it was cold. It didn't feel like anything though. It looked much like fog but with a pitch black coloration. It coiled around Zeehva's leg with great precession and re-materialized as her normal self as if that had not happened.  

Zeehva did not say anything as Magnolia dissipated into fog, though she did have quite a worried expression on her face. Not from what were going on, as she were sure that the mare knew what she were doing, but more like, she were turned to fog. She might end up getting left behind, as she weren't kept to Grethas back by gravity anymore like this. Thankfully it seemed to still work, and Zeehva got a more personal feel of what this form were like. The cold, misty substance, that felt harmless as an autumn breeze, yet carried the sort of sentience and color, that made her think of old depictions of monsters, risen from the dark pits below Tartarus' prison area.

She'd wriggle her hoof around in the mist as it touched her, but found nothing that were making resistance to her touch. A somewhat creepy feel, but... Cool too, in a way? She were a little undecided on this honestly.

"That was... S-Something, yes. I don't know if this is something anypony would like to have happen to them, but I suppose, we can test things, and see where it goes. Maybe it's not so bad. You seem to get through it unscathed at least, so that's a start.

It also seems fairly powerful, yes? Knowing when to not take shape, can really turn a battle against others. Maybe that's something those shadows you speak of, can take advantage of. Just uhm... Try not to go too far, please? It's a fine line between hero and murderous vigilante, and it's best to not go that far."

On 2021-03-23 at 10:00 PM, Magnolia said:

Then Magnolia would address Gretha about Nightmare Moon. "If one is to rule, than the location they are ruling must inhabit life. That is why I believe that under eternal night, the plants and trees of the world would be converted into...some other form of life capable of surviving in the night. Imagine forests with glowing mushrooms, dark trees with an ability to soak in the moon light..." Magnolia said as if dreamingly. She was one for the night.

"Plants could evolve, but it would take many, many years. In that time, you would have long since starved. But if you want a home like that, you could go to one of the dark places, where life have changed to be like that. I have been through a few in my days, though which ones are still around... Hmm, I recall the Wirth Tszangha forest being declared protected nature some years back. It's far, far to the south-west. Long away from these shores. Equestria doesn't really have these things.

Hmm. Though if you include caves, there are the Palewood Tunnels. Runs deep beneath the forest of Palewood, which look like thousands of pale, dead trees. The tunnels beneath are quite lively, from what I'm told. Near the eastern border, I think."

The spires of Deltrot got more in vie now. As did the varied larger creatures flying around, such as dragons. Not of Grethas size, but still, sizeable ones. The docks would also start to fade slowly into view, where many a large ship came in, carrying goods in large crates, being moved around by teams of unicorns.

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

 

@Califorum @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

On 2021-03-23 at 10:15 PM, Kujamih said:

" Molotov.... You do know I'm NOT a robot.... Im more of a pony who has a lot of artifacts.... Thats attached inside my body..... Okay maybe a cyborg.. but more flesh than machine.... I mean you don't call someone a robot or cyborg just by having a heartphaser." 

"Awh. I were hoping some parts might be detachable. Y'know, so that you could upgrade them or something. I ain't ever seen anypony like you before mate, so I was just hoping that there might be something there. Consider me educated. Though if you can't dethatch anything, what sorta benefits does this whole shebang even really give ya? Seems like it's more of a hassle than anything good then. Unless it were just, y'know, repairs and stuff. I know you said a few things earlier, but it just seems a bit off, if you can't even easily take of and replace parts. That's be a big focus if I had a choice in the matter. I know I don't, but you get my point.

Ten cutie marks are pretty cool though. You gotta have a ton of talents."

On 2021-03-24 at 12:24 AM, Cali said:

"The sun where I am from will eventually swallow the entire inner solar system in about 5 billion years due. The sun is powered by hydrogen fusing into helium, basically nuclear fusion. Over a body 100x the size, and 3 million times the mass of the planet you can imagine how it heats everything up. What you are describing sounds like a magical artifact, or a magical source of power rather than a physical creation that exists naturally. Your planet is spherical yes? Well I have something for you." she pulls out a globe of her world, Earth and gives it to Molotov.

Molotov took the globe, and gave it a bit of a spin, while looking over the continents.

"...Yeah, this looks a little like what we have here, just with the continents off here and there. Like here, right? Harrowmark's supposed to cling differently to Germaine, and Neighpon's way smaller than what I see there. Neat to see how close our planet is to yours though. And that sun of yours sounds like a massive issue in the future. Y'know, long after all known life have probably died off, but still.

Anyway, I got a globe over our world back at home. If you want it, I'd be happy to let you have it, and you can see the difference. It might find you a lil' funny too."

Both him and Blitz ate some more, as Cali and Light went on rambling, regarding the princesses, and waited for their time to interject something when it seemed to be right.

"Generally speaking, if you're a legit alicorn in Equestria, you're usually promoted to royalty. What happened with Cadence, with Twilight, and in time, Flurry Heart too. I'm guessing they're just waiting until she's old enough to give her a lil' crown. Gotta sort out what she's the princess of, though with her parents, I wouldn't be surprised if it were something like, Princess of Will, or War. Gotta be something passionate and guard-like the parents are gonna shape her into."

"I heard about Flurry Heart before. She's got biiiiig wings, for a tiny filly. When she gets older, I wanna make her fireworks. I bet she'd be happy with that, since everypony loves a good firework display, hehe.

And friendship princess is a totally real thing. She blasts bad things with friendship beams, and send them right to Tartarus. Or makes them into stone. If she wanders round Ponyville and see's an evil thing like that, it's gonna be pew pew Kaboom! Hehehe."

"What she's trying to say is, that there's a lot of magic in Equestria. Friendship is one of those, and supposedly, Twilight uses that. Mostly her role goes about making political allies though. Like dragons, griffons, selkels, and connections with countries that we don't historically does well with. It's easier to think of her as a sort of weird politician, with a specialty in ending old feuds, y'know?

Now Cadence, I don't really know about. I know her power were used to get the changelings blasted out of Canterlot once, but beyond that, I ain't sure how she functions in all of this. I just know she goes about ruling the Crystal Kingdom these days. Weird place, but eh, I bet it ain't so bad, and she definitely does better than their last ruler. What a dolt."

17 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

Luna narrowed her eyes at Cali, trying to intimidate her “Don't you speak of the princesses like that. I might be a foreigner in this land but I worked for the royalty. It is confirmed Princess Twilight Sparkle saved Equestria a large number of times from their enemies”

"I like the way Luna said it too. She really knows how to kick flank too. Blasted even a demi god, and helped tame him. If that ain't something, I dunno what you want. Her to ascend to actual godhood? Sure hope that's never gonna happen. I don't hear good things about the places were that sort went down, and Equestria ain't a land for gods. The draconequui are more than enough to wrangle with."

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

@Califorum @Blitz Boom @Windy Breeze 

" You know Cali, i also have wings and horns, and so did Rarity, chrysalis and cozy glow... That doesn't mean you're a princess. It's just onr of the requirements to be part of the CLUB."

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Silica would giggle "well now I feel silly' she would say as she watched the illusions fade away, walking alongside him "I don't see why Zebras should be looked down upon, just from the short time we've been together, I can tell you at least are a very nice zebra"

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby nodded to the guards instructions, showing appreciation for the help, and while the help was actually useful, the appreciation was just an act, she was actually slightly annoyed by the guard's chipperness. The salute and welcome also got just a generic friendly gesture as a response, and when they were far enough, Ruby's act dropped and she was back to her cold self "They don't want to take the risk, they are easily flammable." "And yes, I know where it is, not that it's easy to miss, it's unnecessarily big." she didn't understand the want for a big house, especially since she was used to living in caves barely bigger than herself. "It's [insert direction] from here, though I think using the routes the guard mentioned as far as possible is a reasonable idea, so we'll taking a bit longer route." less curious ponies there was ask about Charir, easier it was to get there. She would start heading towards the house, following the more quiet side roads as far as she could. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scarecrow made a mental note to try to remember to come here before a week passed, harder thing to someone like him to do than one would think, since he couldn't tell the difference between a day and a month. 

"There is really only one way to practice, being around ponies, I need to know how living talk to each other and act around each other." "Even learning to move my face requires me to see what kind of expressions are expected in what situations." "I also need to get used to ponies as much as I need to get used to this look" the goal was ultimately to become as unnoticeable as possible, to be ignored like anyone else would be ignored, but that was hard if he was always ready to flee when around ponies, it would also be easier to act like a living creature if he could relax. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Neither of the siblings said it out loud, but both of them wanted to point out that they weren't exactly the kind of individuals who's first things after getting away from oppressive ruler, would be purposely seek out another ruler, it didn't matter how good the rulers here was based on everyone's words, they didn't like authorities, and would need to see the hoofwork of these rulers before they were trustful enough to seek them out. 

"No questions or concerns, thank you." Trox stated, stretching his body and moving his cybernetics around a bit while doing a diagnostics check on them to see they were working correctly, this check wasn't visible outside in any way, it just looked like he was testing their movement. Sheska also warmed up her muscles a bit to ready them for moving after staying put so long, though unlike her brother, she had a question "I have a one question, do you have any kind of prostheses for my tail or do I just keep wrapping it with bandages?" she was referring to the fact that the bone in her tail was sticking out at the tip due to part of her tail missing, it wasn't in pain or otherwise in risk of further damage since it had healed, but bones didn't belong outside the body, and it looked unpleasant. Ultimately it didn't matter since Trox could build one if need was, but she figured it didn't hurt to ask.

After that there would be no more questions.

 

[Fuchsia]

On 2021-03-23 at 8:17 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Billowing reacted with less shock and horror over the bones, yet he still visibly grimaced over the unwelcome surprise. This were not a good omen, yet as it might prove to be important to know more, he'd still lean down, and rummage through some of the old, dry bones.

"Nothing seems recent, so that is something at least. Yet the variance of species here are troubling. I see  deer, equine, canine, some hollow ones I assume are related to flying races of sorts, and animal bones of many, many kinds. Most of which I don't even know, but the implication is still troubling. We best move swiftly."

There was only one way forward, and that were through the bones, and towards the hall on the far end of this room. A simple enough task. Y'know, if not for the fact that some of the bones started to stir, as pale wisps entered some of the skulls, and had the associated parts begin to gather up again. Because that's what they needed right now. The undead.

Not that Billowing would notice at first. He'd be more focused on moving forward, up until the first ethereal moan came out behind them, and the skeleton of a deer stood risen, and blocking the way to the stairs.

"*sigh* Not again..."

Fuchsia can only admire the more experienced adventurer's presence of mind as he seems able to take in the scene before him. She follows behind him, prancing gingerly through the bones, holding her spirit catcher in front of her, ears flattening at every splinter and her eyes firmly shut.

Before the bones stir, the buffalo chimes in her spirit catcher gives a low wail and Fuchsia opens her eyes to see the horror behind her. She screams shrilly and, without thinking, takes out the explosive vial from before and will lob it at the boney visage in behind her, primed by the spooky deer images from before. (If the vial breaks it will produce a fireball in a 10ft sphere)  

 

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“I’ll pass your message along, Banshee. I’m sure she’ll appreciate the comfort that it’ll bring.”

“As for your question, would you believe our names translate to ‘tree’ in the longma’s old tongue? Kinda silly, really. You see a half-dragon creature walking around and their name translate to something about as average as a plant. So much for names that match appearances… Having a naming theme sounds like a child is expected to know their role when they haven’t figured out their talents. If I’m not mistaken, that’s where cutie marks come in, right?”

Sen and Lin laughed it up to lighten the mood. More than anything, they were still somewhat unsure why they were given those names. After all, they never had the chance to ask their parents why they chose those names to begin with. Sentimental value? A good memory? Perhaps the they just looked at their surroundings and picked the first thing that came to mind? It’s as good a guess as any. 

“To be honest, there doesn’t seem to be a theme going with longma names. Well, most of the time. See, the longma elders give up their birth names and choose their new one based on an ideal they strive toward. The elder of our village, Ghilan, chose his when he took it upon himself to forge a new path and lead with novel methods. His name means ‘pathfinder,’ and we’ve been working together to help each other realize that goal.” 

 “But what of ours? I like to think the meaning behind them is why our parents chose our names. A tree may be strong on its own, but when it meets a force stronger than it is, it falls over. However, if there was more than one, perhaps it could weather the force. Strong on its own, but stronger together. Uh, that makes sense, right?”

Sen wouldn’t really see the explanation working well if anyone thought too hard about it. The analogy works better with a bunch of sticks. Breaking one was easy, but trying to break several at the same time was more difficult. In comparison, a tree is strong on its own, but it is doubtful anyone would try to bunch a few of them up and snap them like sticks.

Edited March 27, 2021 by EQ_Theta

[Blitz Boom 4,635]

@EQ_Theta

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“I’ll pass your message along, Banshee. I’m sure she’ll appreciate the comfort that it’ll bring.”

“As for your question, would you believe our names translate to ‘tree’ in the longma’s old tongue? Kinda silly, really. You see a half-dragon creature walking around and their name translate to something about as average as a plant. So much for names that match appearances… Having a naming theme sounds like a child is expected to know their role when they haven’t figured out their talents. If I’m not mistaken, that’s where cutie marks come in, right?”

"Oh, we don't think tree is a bad thing. It's kinda mellow and sweet really, and some pony names are very simple too. Have you heard of Pinkie Pie, for example? She is a pink pony, from the Pie family. So sometimes, things just sort of fits what the parents sees.

The naming is an odd one though, I can understand that, but that is also why it isn't too uncommon for some ponies to change their names, upon getting their cutie marks. Their birth names are given by parents, who think something will work. Which it does not always do, and in that case, names are sometimes changed. Other times, you just roll with it. Our father is of the clan, and are called Water Wraith. He's terrified of large bodies of water, and won't near the ocean, even if you try and drag him there."

12 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“To be honest, there doesn’t seem to be a theme going with longma names. Well, most of the time. See, the longma elders give up their birth names and choose their new one based on an ideal they strive toward. The elder of our village, Ghilan, chose his when he took it upon himself to forge a new path and lead with novel methods. His name means ‘pathfinder,’ and we’ve been working together to help each other realize that goal.” 

 “But what of ours? I like to think the meaning behind them is why our parents chose our names. A tree may be strong on its own, but when it meets a force stronger than it is, it falls over. However, if there was more than one, perhaps it could weather the force. Strong on its own, but stronger together. Uh, that makes sense, right?”

"Your elder system sounds like what we talked about, when it comes to ponies changing names. And he sounds like he have picked one with an important message behind it too. We wish him the best of luck in taking things forward.

And your names make sense like that, if you think about it like that. Could also be that they wanted to call you tree names, because they wished that you had a long life, bearing fruit? You know, growing old, have a lot of kids, and a nice, simple life, where you weathered the storms? Trees can mean a lot of things, to a lot of different beings. For us, trees have meanings as grave markers, but we're not thinking that's the case with you."

A small bell were heard above them, as a breezie rung the signal that break time were over. Something which made Banshee let out a minor sigh.

"We're sorry, but duty calls. There's still plenty of tourists that want tours, and we sadly can't spend all day speaking like this. Try to come by someday when we do not have a festival going, okay? We'd love to speak more with you, and share some of our family history. Maybe it will be enlightening. Come on now Abacus, we have to get back to work."

Abacus gave off an irritated caw, clearly not wanting that, as the four of them over there were making friendlies.

"We know, our little starlight, but there are so many who wants to bask in your glory. It isn't nice to deny them a chance to awe at you, right? And Soul will still be here when we get back. It's just your new little friend that will be away for some time. He'll come back someday. You know nopony could stay away from you, could they?"

Abacus gave a more proud caw, and spread her wings. Fanning her vanity worked well, as wyverns were still a subspecies of dragons, with all the pride that entailed. And the dumbest thin one could try and do when it came to a wyvern, were trying to break that pride, as you wouldn't get anywhere. Rather, you had to work with it, and make them act on it in positive ways. Had always worked for Banshee before, and it did now too, as Abacus leaned down and gave her goodbyes to Shrimp. Who in turn, would chirp pleased, and return to favor by rubbing his face on hers. They'd surely make good, long term friends.

Banshee would say her goodbyes again then, and go over to put Abacus in the harness, and fill the carts. It were time for the next flight.

If they wanted to, they could speak with Soul, who had been petting Shrimp for a bit, and were now standing near a wall, observing the strange little dragon. As well as its owner, who had not blinked once, soince coming over. Just stared at him. Which were even to him, a little creepy. Though they could also just leave, and enjoy a few more hours of things before the pre-trial rest they'd need.

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

 

@abrony-mouse

Billowing let out an impressed whistle at seeing the fireball that had just engulfed, and cremated the risen. These were all old bones, collecting dust in the bottom of this even older temple. They were pretty much kindling at this point. Which sadly were shown, when that one had caught fire, and it started to spread to some of the other bones. Some of which rose up, and moved towards them.

"I draw the line at flaming skeletons. Retreat! Let them burn themselves out."

He'd grab hold in his companion, and make a dashing sprint towards the only exit that were workable, as the way up were blocked with flames and risen: That being the path further inside.

There'd be no traps found beyond here. No long hallway, or depictions of anything. Just scorched walls in a short hallway, before it opened up into a larger room. The center of the temple, if he were to make a wager.

Four statues of deer were there, standing in each their corner, and looking towards the middle. They all seemed to depict in details, the buck from earlier, judging by the horns, and really made for an intimidating sight, as the scribbles hadn't done him justice.

From their horns, ran two chains. One onyx, and another one green. The onyx one seemed almost new and polished, while the other one were partially overtaken by moss, grass, and other minor overgrowths.

They gathered in the middle, where they each were attached to a hook near the final links, with the last few of each chain, gathering up at a central lock, depicting a feline head. And what were it they were holding up in hooks, and locking down? A sarcophagus. Thick stone and covered in glowing runes, beneath the chains. There indeed seemed to have been something locked up here, a long time ago.

Beneath it, if they looked, they'd find something nor scorched. A tablet, with old writing chiseled into it. As there were not much else to look at right now, and he were curious, Billowing went over and ran his hooves over it.

"*...Here we lie the vessel, in which we pour our curse. May his sacrifice be forgotten, and his name swallowed by time.* Now that seems kinda harsh I would say."

The risen were nearing though, so they had to do something soon. There were a few exits, but trying to go through any of them, would set off a trap. Though there were a path, which would take a choice: If they toppled one of the statues, they could cause a chain reaction, that would have them end up falling over one another, and function as steps they could use to reach an exit further up, where it seemed there had once been stairs to, that were then removed. One couldn't say what would happen with the object in the room though, but if they wanted to survive, they were likely going to need to do this, and see what came of it.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-03-26 at 10:33 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"They don't want to take the risk, they are easily flammable."

That one got an amused snort from Leviathan. Classic dragon humor that one, and it were a classic because it always worked. And with this timing, she certainly couldn't resist having a little sign of amusement about it, like she had just had. It were simply too good, and too well timed.

Other creatures rarely found that joke too funny, but then again, they were also usually the ones referred to as being flammable. Most things were to a dragon. And those things that couldn't burn, could be crushed. If neither of those worked, most would just wander around the object or being, or flat out ignore them. What were the fun in knowing you couldn't kill something on a whim?

On 2021-03-26 at 10:33 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"It's [insert direction] from here, though I think using the routes the guard mentioned as far as possible is a reasonable idea, so we'll taking a bit longer route." less curious ponies there was ask about Charir, easier it was to get there. She would start heading towards the house, following the more quiet side roads as far as she could. 

"As your bodyguard then, allow me to lead the way."

It would frankly be really, really easy to get on to where they needed to go. When they got to the section where the train crossed, it had just done so a minute or so earlier, and passed by them at a healthy speed. Walking on, they'd get through the minor alleys that had the least eyes on them, and they would soon enough, even pass by the main section of town, by mostly going around it. They could hear the noise though. That would be hard to miss, and some of the traffic would be evident too, judging by the ponies on more travelled roads they could spot, wandering back and forth in a myriad of different creatures. Some of which would look at the weird little group, taking the side paths. Primarily other dragons, of a smaller variant, but none of them seemed to care enough to actually follow them. Not for long anyway. The simplistic ones were easily distracted by some flashing lights or the like, and would forget about them.

A guard did follow them for a few minutes though, just watching if they were up to something, but provided they didn't do anything, and just ignored him, he'd wander off quietly again. He were just being paranoid.

If all went as planned, they'd be able to see the fine neighborhood soon enough. In which, the house they were looking for were, amongst a fair number of other, far larger mansions. It would likely feel a little overwhelming for Ruby, with all the riches hiding just outside of reach, within those ridiculous places. Leviathan were less tempted to go for that, and would rather steal something that meant something to them, than a few coin that they had an abundance of, but to each their own. They could likely both agree though, that these creatures had more than they deserved.

And it didn't take more than one snooty couple to look on them like *What are these filthy creatures doing here?* before she'd bar her teeth slightly at them, and start smoking out her nostrils again. As per usual, they'd scamper off, and not try to speak a word to them on the way. Didn't want to be burned, no?

"I dislike the opulent. Hoarding more than they could ever need, or argue for keeping, just to flaunt it at others, and mock them for not having the same. At least when a dragon hoards, we don't go around and throw it in others faces. Besides, no creature that's technically edible, should look at a dragon like they're better than us."

It didn't make her want to go into a furious rage, but it did certainly irk her. As well as made her feel better, when the things she stole, came from them. Let them feel what it were like to lose something actually important.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Perhaps we should go to the park in Ponyville then? When I were watching from the outside, before entering the town for my first attempt at communicating with them, I saw a lot wander there, to have a nice, calm time. I have yet to be there myself, but I hear they got here to stroll around, and enjoy a calm time. Ponies of any ages, just enjoying themselves. Perhaps there would be a place to walk and observe?

If not, there are many I see wander their marketplace. Even if you had no interest in the trade, it might still be a fine place to observe ponies dealing with things n their daily lives, yes?

Though we might also simply wander around, and see where the wind takes us. I have no preferences, so I will let the decision be up to you, my friend."

It weren't entirely true, as she did wish to go to the park, but this were about Scarecrow, and him learning how to blend in better. It should be up to him where they walked, and she could always wander the park another day. It would not vanish from one day to the next... Hopefully.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2021-03-26 at 10:33 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I have a one question, do you have any kind of prostheses for my tail or do I just keep wrapping it with bandages?"

"Ah yes, I were going to ask you about that, actually. It isn't good for the health to have bone perturbing like that. Sadly, we don't have anything specifically made for your race in particular, as we have never encountered something like you, but one of our nurses did say she were working on something which may function until we could have a proper one made. Might I ask wh-"

Onache's horn glowed, and he seemed to space out for a half a second, before going on with what he were now going to say, rather than ask into how this happened in the first place. She did not think Sheska would want to answer that, so she addressed this before it became an issue.

"-at sort of covering you would prefer? I think perhaps focusing on one that is fur-based, with an easily cleanable inner surface would do well. I'd also like to examine it a little closer if I may, so I can take precise measures? It will function the best that way, and not sit loose, as an example."

If he were allowed to, he'd use a tape measure, and look closely from a few angles, to make sure he got all details right, and would scribble them down. Soon enough then, the nurse from way earlier - the one with multicolored hair - would return, carrying a small bundle with her, and look as pleased as could be.

"Hey, you're still here. Sweet! Check this out."

She'd unwrap what she carried, to show what were essentially a tip for the tail. Granted, it would be sporting velcro to keep it tight and in place, and the fuzz were definitely not her color scheme, but it would keep it protected from Sheska. One might argue the feathers weren't needed, and just flair, but they'd have to take it up with the doc.

"It ain't perfect, but come on. Can't say it wouldn't do the trick for now at least, and you could use some color. Waddaya say?"

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

 

@Scarlet Rose

"Thank you, I think too, that you are rather nice. But it takes a lot to change prejudice. Many know not how to approach a zebra of old ideal, and it makes some irrational when it comes to how they feel. I am one who embrace new things, even if you still se me wearing my rings. It is easier to accept, so the worst I can neglect. Zecora is of a different brand. True to the roots of Zebrican. Something I can only find great, yet for others... They still need to decide on acceptance, or hate. Acceptance usually come fast, and will be something that last, when they learn she is a friend, and can be helpful in the end.

Even then, understand this my friend: Some concoctions take patience and peace, and in towns such silence will often cease. This gives her more room to do what she wills, and have acces to herbs that will help the cauldron to fill. A treasure throve of many a usable thing, without having to wait for a postmare to come and bring, what she wish, for her next dish."

As he wandered and talked, more things would try and distract them, and lure them off the path. Including a seemingly goo-like replica of Silica, and a sign going *Free muffins and sewing needles, this way*. But provided nothing worked, it seemed the way were simpler. With the path actually lifting up, and splitting into seven parts, that snaked around in different directions. It seemed whoever were trying to play with them, were finding them kinda rude for not taking part, or at least be a little freaked out.

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

 

@Califorum

On 2021-03-25 at 11:22 PM, Magnolia said:

"You have nothing to be afraid of. I just hope...other ponies would not judge me for my magic. Shadow magic, is not dark magic. It does not corrupt you." she'd say as her arm turned into black fog and she sort of would 'pet' Zeehva with it. It was cold, yet also oddly soothing. Then after a second of that, she retracted it. "As for other ponies using this, I am not sure. But you know I also created...constructs out of shadows..." she'd look away, she didn't even want to imagine herself fighting Zeehva ever again. She felt so so sorry for facing her before.

"So has Shade Stealer, and he isn't... Uhm, okay, maybe a bad example, as those who talks about him doesn't exactly like him. But he isn't locked up for making constructs. Or train others into using his kind of shadow magic. It's kind of mixed what I hear about the theories others have about him and the rest of the squad he runs for General Screecher, but uhm... Yeeeah. Long as you can control the shadow things you make, I'm sure it's fine."

She had wanted to be reassuring, but it just didn't go so well at the time, as the only Equestrian counterpart she could think of, were not exactly Mr. popular. A brutally efficient worker, but not well liked, or social. Maybe if they could keep the efficient worker part, and ditch the rest, they'd have a solid approach for Magnolia.

Zeehva would move closer and put a hoof around the now again solid Magnolia, as she seemed to avert her eyes when talking at the constructs at the end. She did it herself all the time, so she were fairly sure it were Magnolia feeling bad about their whole fight, where she had made some use of varied kinds of shadows.

"I'm not judging you, okay? I'll be here to try and help others see they shouldn't either. Hopefully we'll eventually get to the point where there are far more in awe or debt to you, than are afraid, but we got to take it one step at a time. Though, perhaps not turn into a shadow around others just yet? I understand when you say it, that it is shadow, but most will just see dark, as the schools are pretty similar. Think I recall someone once say shadow were made from dark magic, but watered down so it were safer... A-Anyway, not important. The future is, isn't it?"

On 2021-03-25 at 11:22 PM, Magnolia said:

She looked about the skyline of Deltrot as it was revealed into view. "Those sound like very interesting places, Gretha. The Palewood calls to me. I am surprised I have never heard of that place before. I'd definitely like to visit sometime. If Zeehva would like to go that would make me...happy." Magnolia grinned awkwardly at that. The other place she mentioned was also interesting indeed. Magnolia would look into the distance as the city came closer, until they eventually landed. 

"I wouldn't mind going to the Palewoods. I've never heard of them either, so maybe there is something special to find there."

"Depends how you feel about pixies."

Zeehva's eye twitched as she heard that last word.

"They're not so bad, once you get to know them, and unless you want to be eaten by the things they claim roam in the tunnels, it's best to be on their good side. They might *forget* to tell you which tunnels are safe otherwise.

At least that it how it were last I were there. Who can tell what have changed in the past few centuries?"

As she said this, a dragon flew from the approaching town, and straight towards them. A slick, yellow one with spiky... Well, spikes, on his head, that looked like short hair, two long horns, and green eyes. He'd dive under them as he got nearer, and then rise up so he were at their side, where he'd give a friendly toothy grin at the two ponies.

"Eeey, wouldya lookit that. Never seen her transport ponies before. Or doesn't she know you are equines? Have you finally gone senile, Gretha?"

"Maybe. I am after all feeling like I am forgetting, whatever or not I'm allowed to smack small dragons out of the sky."

"Hah! That's the Gretha we all know and love. Never losing that wit of hers."

"Little ones, this is my... Hmmm, I think it was eight times grandson, Dolt."

"Hey, it's Bolt and you know it."

"Are you sure? I can't remember you being called that."

Seemed like they were having a laugh at least, with actual laughter from them both after this, before the pony height, double length of an equine, dragon - not counting the tail - would land down on the spacious saddle as well.

"Real nice meeting you folks. Give it up."

He'd reach out a hand to go for a shake, starting with Magnolia. Seemed friendly enough.

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

 

@Kujamih @Califorum @Windy Breeze

On 2021-03-25 at 7:53 PM, Cali said:

"And as for my sun, here is a diagram that will help you out. A few actually. Don't ask why I collect these, I just like looking at them. I wouldn't mind having that globe though." Cali chuckled and pulled out the following diagrams.

Molotov were finding her talks on the map fine enough, but he were no mapping lad. He were an engineer, and an inventor, who liked solar energy. So when the papers came out for how the sun worked? Oh hay yeah was he gonna look those over.

"Uuuuh. Now this here? This is some nice stuff. Dr. Grindel always claimed this were how the rays worked, but we just didn't have the tech to properly test it at the time... Heh. Looks a lot like the work the next three doctors after him came to, and then a little something more. With a few variations. It isn't including certain magical rays that also has to be factored in for us, but still, this here's reeeeeal good. Want me to get you a copy of the solar work we got here in Equestria? Might be you'll find it interesting. On top of the globe, of course. Momma didn't raise no cheater, and I offered you that too."

On 2021-03-25 at 7:53 PM, Cali said:

Cali would listen to what else they said about the Princesses. "I find that all interesting. Where I am from., Princesses only exist in certain nations that have monarchies. There is a King and Queen. Perhaps you have a King and Queen here. Who are they? Is Queen Chrysalis the Queen here? Or is it someone else? Who was that last ruler of that...Crystal Empire you speak of?" Cali then grinned evily.

With a red flash, she popped a pair of pegasus wings onto her back. "Am I royal enough for you? Am I royalty now?" she did a striking pose.

"Heh, nice try *your majesty*, but there's still some lines of coronation, and natural order to go with here. Formchanging ain't cutting it. Or else all changelings would be princesses.

And no, we don't got kings and queens. Oddly enough, the top ruler of Equestria, and most other pony nations, are princesses or princes. I couldn't tell you why they don't upgrade it fully for the life of me.

Chrysalis is a queen of a changeling hive. Think of 'em like overdeveloped, magical, emotion eating ants. Just don't say it to their face. Man do they get prissy if you call 'em ants.

And last ruler was some twerp called Sombra. Dunno much about him, frankly don't want to either. He sounded like bad news, from the stories alone. Like, how he secluded the entire Crystal Empire away for a while, or returned several times, cause some twonk keeps toying with his powers, or something like that. Hopefully he's locked up in Tartarus for good now."

On 2021-03-25 at 11:03 PM, Kujamih said:

" You know Cali, i also have wings and horns, and so did Rarity, chrysalis and cozy glow... That doesn't mean you're a princess. It's just onr of the requirements to be part of the CLUB."

"Princesses are rulers of stuff, but her wings are pretty. That's important too, right?"

Folks around were certainly looking, but at this point, they seemed to just settle on what made sense: Crazy changeling. best to not ask questions, and stay away from her, and her weird friends.

"Argument to be made there for sure. Now, you folks done eating soon, before we get thrown out for creeping out the other patrons? I'm thinking we're reaching the limit for how long this sort is fun for 'em."

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom@Califorum

".... Wait arent we supposed to talk about something important here.... Thats why we went here right? Dang it Cali you derailed us again with your shenanigans..."

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom

Just feeling the coldness in Cimex's icy voice brought the feeling of dislike for the Changeling. My mind is wrong, Cimex is not a changeling who no longer cares about her loss, she's just trying to conceal her sorrows, she wants to be strong and forget the past which she reluctantly brought out earlier. I agree with Sorrow. Cimex has a hard time expressing her true feelings and still struggling to accept the passing of someone she loves. It's concerning but indeed we should wait for the opportunity to kindly talk to her about it or let her slowly realize she has overcome her emotions.

The thought of losing a loved one gave me a mental image in my mind, an old dry photograph of a happy family smiling and among them was a little filly mounting her mom's mane, staring at the camera with curiosity.

Waves came crashing down, screams filled the coast as houses came down and ponies are swept away, some will be seen among the remains of once had been a town or floating at sea.

I let out a soft gasp without conscience, I feel my eyes shaking like a leaf, my mouth gaped in sheer horror before realizing where I am. I am in Fillydelphia and my companion is a medium who can talk and interact with spirits, chased by a group of ponies with unknown intention and hiding from them from a changeling probably living in a solitary life.

“Thanks for the support, but I want to deal with them alone. I don't want you or anypony from your bloodline to get involved with them" I heard Razor talking to Sorrow. I must have been distracted I didn't even heard Sorrow. What did she say? I could only assume she offers to give help to Razor. I could only imagine Tepe's young clueless look as he listened, no doubt his interest peaking up.

On 2021-03-26 at 2:22 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Windy? Do you have any sort of ideas on how we get out of town, and when it might be best? Perhaps you've seen a good way somewhere before we met, Tepe?"

Now, it was me and Tepe's turn to answer. I gazed at Sorrow, not looking to left or to the right, just at her beautiful face. I don't know what to say, I'm not very good at stealth.

“I don't know but I guess we should make an 'identity'. Dressing up and wearing wigs can help, but only for you. I still want to wear my uniform" I crossed by forelegs and clutched my Wonderbolt flight suit, showing how I adore my 'sacred' clothing. I'm so proud of my uniform, I will only take them off If I had to take a bath.

“We should use alleyways or blend in the crowd. Take note we don't have to stand out from the group, especially one of is obsessed with her unnecessary garment”

Something inside my head snapped. It could be a vein or something but it doesn't really matter as I lunged at Tepe, passing through his ghostly body and slamming into the floor, almost breaking my nose by the impact. How did I forgot he's a ghost of a former living zebra? Oh, wait. We have to keep it a secret, we can't make another crazy spirit running around like Autumn.

“How in the hay did you do that?” I looked back at the source behind me, Tepe stared at me with awe and confusion. Oh no, Sorrow help me. I don't know how I should explain how I jumped through him.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom @Califorum @Kujamih

“We have over 42 changelings at our town even before the so-called... Changeling Empire Reformation” Luna shared her knowledge from the books she read at Canterlot, referring to the Metamorphosing of the entire Changeling Empire and the overthrow of Queen Chrysalis from the throne “Their families were one the first settlers of Richville when Scouthoof Spunky started the building of the town. Nopony knows why those changelings came along, all they said Is they wanted to start a new life for themselves”

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“We understand, Banshee, and we wouldn’t want to hold you back from your duty. It’s been great chatting with you. Until we meet again!"

The siblings felt like they could really spend a lot more time chatting up Banshee, though the same could not be so. There were guests to attend to and this would be a working evening for Abacus. Sen and Lin bowed and waved to the Banshee and Abacus, respectively, as they departed, ruminating on where the conversation ended. There was the Emerald Spires back home, a place where the trees were indeed used as markers and could not be chopped down for any use. 

Sen and Lin would use this time to check in on Rosa and Shrimp, the latter looking happy at getting the chance to meet a friend again. Lin stayed with the others, feeling just as pleased as the refraction. Similar with Amethyst, she’s slowly enjoying this kind of socializing; meeting friends and getting to know them better felt good. She’d make a mental note to come and visit Banshee again in the future, and she’s sure Shrimp would like that too. Once that’s he’d then go over to Rosa, though she’s catch sight of her brother walking to Soul. 

“Well, that has been an interesting chat with Banshee. You’ve been rather silent for a while, Rosa. Are you alright?”

In the meantime, Sen approached Soul, who was off to side. Looked like he was left out of the conversation, and there was something the longma wanted to ask. Maybe a few things, but he’d understand if Soul didn’t want to answer some. He wouldn’t want to leave the carnival without sating a little bit of his curiosity. 

“Hi, Soul,” Sen calmly bowed and smiled. “I… uh, can’t help but notice how close Abacus is to you. Could I ask you about how you two met?”

[Rising Dusk 27,804]

@Blitz Boom

It was always a pleasant experience to leave one's audience in shock and awe.  All the more enjoyable from a pony not use to their ways.  Those wide eyes and the difficulty in forming words, ah the mark of a grand performance.  Not that she was actually even trying to impress or express herself this morning.  In fact this was the more casual side of the detective's sister.  "I'm glad my hospitably was to your liking," the mare expressed with a warm smile.  "My rest was most divine," Dawn stretched and gushed her own delight for the previous evening.  It wouldn't be hard to imagine the kind of bedroom such a pony as her would sleep in, but they'd be wrong.  Lavish, pillars of marble, gold trim, satin cloths, fountains perhaps?  Psh, how predictable.  She did sleep like that once, but the taste was not for her pallet.  Instead, she simply teleported her childhood room into the a larger room of the manor and updated it slowly over her adult life.  New posters, make up, wardrobe or other decortications changed buy the feeling did not.  Simple and homely.  Her room contained no bed though.  Rather a pedestal she enchanted in her early years to generate a zero gravity bubble to suspended herself above with a body pillow to snuggle and blanket.  Trouble picking a mattress?  Remove the mattress.

"Breakfast it is.  Business later," Dawn chimed and tapped her hoof on the floor of the cabin they were in.  A rainbow ripple radiated out and the cabin whooshed away while either pony moved.  Briefly the void passed by before a vista of a diner appeared in the distance and rushed toward them.  Single ponies and families sat at classic booths and tables with red trim, engaged in friendly chatter while waitress' took food orders to relay to a small team of cooks in the back but visible through a small opening behind a long counter lined with stools that offered a third form of seating.  A popular if not more casual family diner that one would see more commonly all over Manehatten. As the vista got closer Dawn stood up, it'd be rather silly to appear sitting down on the diner floor.  Soon after, the pair appeared at the long counter and Dawn took a seat on one of the stools.  Picking up the menu sat out on the counter top to flip through it.  "I recommend the pancakes," she told Lily without skipping a beat.  Their teleportation grew a few looks from those ponies that weren't as regular at this diner, but the attention didn't last long. 

[Blitz Boom 4,635]

@EQ_Theta

On 2021-03-29 at 12:56 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Well, that has been an interesting chat with Banshee. You’ve been rather silent for a while, Rosa. Are you alright?”

"Sometimes it is good to simply sit back, and observe things. I find it relaxing, as well as a rather persistent professional habit. You were doing well in speaking with Banshee, and it seemed my input wasn't really needed, so I found it soothing, and somewhat fitting, to simply observe, and make note of what I saw and heard. Sounds like there is quite a lot of story to learn about when it comes to their family. As well as themselves. The split body information were rather... Intriguing, as well as horrifying.

I were also keeping an eye on the interaction with the others. It seemed to have gone well, so that is a surprise, yet a welcome one.

I couldn't help but overhear you received an invitation to learn more, on another day. Are you considering doing so? I'd suggest it being worth a try, someday when you feel up for it. It may prove to be very informative. As well as giving you another look on how dark magic does not always have to be evil in nature. I can imagine that being something that might open your eyes to a few things?"

He didn't know all the story, but he knew enough that dark magic had not exactly shown itself as a force of good, for the siblings. So perhaps seeing this other side of the medal, would prove to be informative, as well as open their eyes somewhat, to the fact that nothing were simple. Everything were variants of grey, rather than simply black or white. Even destructive magic like this.

On 2021-03-29 at 12:56 AM, EQ_Theta said:

In the meantime, Sen approached Soul, who was off to side. Looked like he was left out of the conversation, and there was something the longma wanted to ask. Maybe a few things, but he’d understand if Soul didn’t want to answer some. He wouldn’t want to leave the carnival without sating a little bit of his curiosity. 

“Hi, Soul,” Sen calmly bowed and smiled. “I… uh, can’t help but notice how close Abacus is to you. Could I ask you about how you two met?”

When he got addressed, Soul turned around with some surprise in his exposed eye. He were used to everypony doing just about everything they could, to avoid his company. Even several members of his own family acted this way, with only really Banshee and his mother, being some that he knew were proud of him, and were happy to meet up with him. And of those, quite frankly, Banshee were the more approachable one. He would not say a bad word of his mother, but she were a very serious mare, and took high pride in acting somewhat regal and aloof. He understood why too, considering her way of dealing with spirits, but it did mean that prolonged talks with her could start to sound more like a sermon, than a family visit. 

"I grew up with Banshee and Boo. When she started to get through to Abacus, and Boo began working with the harnesses, we had to learn to tolerate each other. Guess we got friendly."

He were more cagey about answering too much, as he was not sure what to think of these. Banshee liked them, but they liked most beings too, long as they weren't rude to Abacus.

"And you? How come you're hanging around one of Them? You got any idea how highly wanted they are by the Royal Guards?"

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2021-03-29 at 6:25 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"I recommend the pancakes," she told Lily without skipping a beat.  Their teleportation grew a few looks from those ponies that weren't as regular at this diner, but the attention didn't last long. 

Lily looked like she had just gotten a rude awakening, which weren't a lie either. This whole thing were bizarre, and quite frankly, she weren't sure if any of this were real anymore. She had just been in a cabin, which she could understand as having some sort of special connecting door to it. But then it had just seemingly fallen apart, and they had been travelling through a void of nothingness. Complete, dark blankness, with nothing to gaze upon, and yet still a floor to keep her hooves on. Or some kind of surface at least, as it wasn't as if she had been falling, for the short while it would be before they were suddenly rushing towards a place with other ponies in sight. Another room it seemed, that they'd soon land upon, and frankly, she were unsure of what to do right now. Standing still, felt as if it might be the wisest, as this were maybe some sort of illusion, but she couldn't tell. Too much oddities had just happened there, to make her feel certain of anything.

After a minute or so, she would cautiously raise a hoof, and try taking a step. Then another one. A little by little she'd wander towards the table, while making sure to keep an eye on things around her, and trying to gauge whatever or not she could find some sort of flaw in this, that would mark it as an illusion, It felt solid enough, but around this mare, she weren't sure if that were because it were, or if perhaps she were just seeing something else, and about to walk over a cliff somewhere for easy cleanup.

Once she were done wandering a few steps, she'd feel if the seat were real, before sitting there.

"Is this real? Is this some kind of illusion? Did you teleport us here in slow motion? What just happened?"

She were tentative and cautious, as well as uncertain about basically all of this. What were even real more? Were she? Were this some sort of sick joke, run by Twisted, and she were actually locked in her own mind?

"And what are pancakes even?"

This one might be sacrilege, but in fairness, how were she to know? Ingredients for frivolous things like that, wasn't exactly abundant were she came from.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

On 2021-03-28 at 6:19 AM, Windy Breeze said:

I let out a soft gasp without conscience, I feel my eyes shaking like a leaf, my mouth gaped in sheer horror before realizing where I am. I am in Fillydelphia and my companion is a medium who can talk and interact with spirits, chased by a group of ponies with unknown intention and hiding from them from a changeling probably living in a solitary life.

Sorrow were over before she even snapped out of it, and looked with worry at her friend.

"Are you okay? It seemed like you got a bad thought stuck in your head."

She may have some idea of what it might be, considering what she had talked about other times, but there were options. Either it were about where her mother had died, or it could be her accident. Might also be something she had never even thought about, or head of. Or maybe the experiences in the part of town wit the poltergeist activity. There were options. But regardless of which one it were, she 'd need to be there to try and help her friend get out of it. It wasn't good for her to linger on these things.

On 2021-03-28 at 6:19 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Thanks for the support, but I want to deal with them alone. I don't want you or anypony from your bloodline to get involved with them" I heard Razor talking to Sorrow. I must have been distracted I didn't even heard Sorrow. What did she say? I could only assume she offers to give help to Razor. I could only imagine Tepe's young clueless look as he listened, no doubt his interest peaking up.

"You're getting help Razor, and that's final. You don't have what it takes to even interact with those creatures, and if you found evidence, then what would you do? You're going to need somepony here to help you through this, and it's better I make sure grandmother sends somepony that's fit for the task, rather than one stumbling over the mess. You could be unlucky and get Mourners Puppet otherwise."

There was a grim thought. One that would solve the criminal issue certainly, but it were not in a kind way, if even half of the things she had heard were true. Which she weren't entirely sure if they were, but why risk it? Weren't for nothing that Mr. Sherwood kept the two of them away from regular pony settlements.

And Razor couldn't deal with this on his own. He needed somepony to interact with the living that actually could. Sure the lot of them could see him, but that was a rarity. He'd end up more like Tepe than his wife, and be unable to do much, as things just happened as they were going to, and he'd stay ignored.

On 2021-03-28 at 6:19 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“We should use alleyways or blend in the crowd. Take note we don't have to stand out from the group, especially one of is obsessed with her unnecessary garment”

Something inside my head snapped. It could be a vein or something but it doesn't really matter as I lunged at Tepe, passing through his ghostly body and slamming into the floor, almost breaking my nose by the impact. How did I forgot he's a ghost of a former living zebra? Oh, wait. We have to keep it a secret, we can't make another crazy spirit running around like Autumn.

“How in the hay did you do that?” I looked back at the source behind me, Tepe stared at me with awe and confusion. Oh no, Sorrow help me. I don't know how I should explain how I jumped through him.

"Uhm... So, I should try a disguise then, and we keep to small streets. Sounds alright. Maybe you can try like... A jacket or something, you can have over your uniform?"

Oh boy, how to explain this... Tepe was clearly not ready to her he were dead, so how would she explain this to them?

"...And I know you're proud of being part of the Wonderbolts, but maybe not try and show off to Tepe, with that whole *moving so fast it almost looks like you're passing through him* thing? I know it's a great gag, but your body is still sore, and it's probably best if you don't do this little burst speed maneuver. Plus I think you're confusing Tepe with it. Which I guess is the point, but still."

Bald faced lie, but the alternative sounded way worse, so she'd try this, and see if it worked. If not, they only had the truth yet, and that was gonna be a whole different, larger can of worms.

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

 

@Califorum

On 2021-03-27 at 11:13 PM, Magnolia said:

"I've never heard that name before. But it sounds like he gathers his power from shadows, sort of like I do. At least, somewhat. I can create and control shadow monsters, or even shadow demons...but really they are just constructs under my direct control. I don't create anything sentient, or that would probably end up backfiring...wouldn't it?" she'd smirk meekly at that.

"Life isn't something you can simply make, and think it will be constantly doing as you say. Ask any parent, or pet owner. Even trained or raised really well, they will eventually do something by their own accord, and not always smart things. So it's probably best that they don't have personalities or something. It might end badly, and would push back on you.

And I don't really know what sort of magic he uses. It's just something that reminded me of the way you speak about your powers. Maybe someday, you'll run into him, and you can say for yourself. Though from what I heard, it's probably best if you didn't. He doesn't sound very friendly."

On 2021-03-27 at 11:13 PM, Magnolia said:

She'd look to Zeehva as if endearing her words. "I-I wouldn't mind ponies being in awed and in debt to me, but yes, the future is more important. I'll not show my power around others...I don't want there to be unwanted attractions towards me. But the idea of me being...some sort of fashion-pony? Whatever that is? Sounds interesting...but it will require a ton of testing that I have not done." she'd say. Zeehva could clearly see that pride showing through her look. Magnolia was a deeply prideful, yet also hurt pony. Likely something that would remain for quite some time. 

"When you're ready, we'll try to find someplace in a forest where you can practice. The less eyes eyes on the early stages, the better. Wouldn't want them to know your secrets either, right?"

She'd still need to find some sort of hook and a way into things, even if they succeeded, but they should take this one step at a time. No need to rush forth when they hadn't even gotten the first step yet, in what were likely gonna be a long term goal sort of thing.

On 2021-03-27 at 11:13 PM, Magnolia said:

Magnolia was about to say something about the Palewood, buy then another dragon had arrived and approached them. She was surprised that this dragon was related to Gretha. He seemed to be the more slick, fast character. To him, Magnolia felt like an unusual pony. Something about her seemed off. The way that she was sitting, the shadows had shifted slightly around her. Little did he know, it was Magnolia's passive influence that subtly bended the shadows around her slightly. Barely noticeable.

She'd blink her light purple eyes a bit as she shook her hoof with Dolt. She was silent, unsure of what to say to Dolt. Dolt also noticed how beautiful and well kept Magnolia's mane and coat were though. 

Bolt - or Dolt, as seemed to be his unfortunate nickname - would shake the hoof and go on to offer Zeehva the same Who's cautiously take it, and get shaken all the same. 

"Real nice meeting you folks. Good that you ran into Gretha out there too, and not one of the wild predators. You can always count on her being nice to others.

I'm not here to ruin your vibe if you got something busy to do. Just saw her fly in, and felt like saying hi. Usually not in the area you see."

"You aren't getting into trouble now, are you?"

"No no. Oh nononono. I'm on an official break from school. It's out for the next few months now, so I just came by to say hello. You know mom would throw me into a pool of water dragons if I skipped school."

"I always liked her attitude. It reminds me of your great great grandfather. Oh what a handsome young man he was."

"Yeah, that's what she says too. Shame he got eaten. Oh well, stuff happens. So, what're you two folks out doing?

And what's with that funky magic around you? I haven't seen something like that before. Gives you a real shiny tint, y'know? Really dashing, in that sorta *shadow gem* kind of way."

He were talking to Magnolia as he spoke, and sat down relaxing on his ancestor. The town were nearly there now, with only around ten minutes worth of flight until they'd be at the harbor. Partially due to Gretha having slowed down some. Didn't want to rush into air space. It sometimes made a couple of creatures iffy to see, for some reason.

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

 

@Califorum @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

On 2021-03-28 at 5:32 AM, Kujamih said:

".... Wait arent we supposed to talk about something important here.... Thats why we went here right? Dang it Cali you derailed us again with your shenanigans..."

"I think we were gonna talk about Center Zero, though we also went to get something to eat, since the brain just ain't working right, if the body doesn't get some fuel to work with."

Been quite a detour, but he were used to that. Inventing for a Boom involved a lot of half finished projects lying around, because they were focused on that, rather than finishing the first thing they had been at. Sometimes they were distracted, or had a better idea. Other times, they just felt like setting it aside for a time, until they had the hunger for it again, or could figure out something stumping them.

On 2021-03-28 at 5:55 AM, Cali said:

"I would like to see what you have here, just out of curiosity really. What do you think of the way my world does things? At least in this regard. I am curious what you think of that." Cali would reply with a curious look into his eyes. She liked Molotov.

"I mean, considering they don't have magic, I get why they push technology so far. Not a fan of how it ruins your nature, but sadly, when you try to keep pressing forward, without thinking, this is the sorta thing that can happen. So yeah. Great progress, not a fan of how you ended up in it. Makes sense?"

Molotov would shrug as he responded to this. Were about how it were in his head. Some good, some bad, thankfully not his problem. She probably felt the same way about Equestria, as any would, who'd have some bias about how they were used to things running, were the best version. Even if they could also see how there were some good stuff to gain if they looked elsewhere. Sometimes things that could inspire.

On 2021-03-28 at 5:55 AM, Cali said:

"Changelings huh? Sounds pretty interesting. It seems like they have to drain emotions in order to survive...creatures have ways of surviving and what not. As for Sombra, I don't have much to say about that. Sounds like an interesting guy though." with that she would conclude and stand up from the table.

She agreed that it was time to leave, and levitated away the trash they had into the trash bins and flapped her wings looking to the folks around them. "By the way I'm not a changeling. I can just assume whatever form I want. Bask in my magnificence." she'd grin slyly, flapping her wings to emphasize her point.

"Yeah, you pretty much got changelings down. Can end up leaving folks as empty husks is they're the ruthless sorts. others harvest things more harmlessly, and we ain't none the wiser. Ain't as efficient, but y'know, beats being seen as a monster. Like Sombra is thought of. Ain't a lot of love for him, though I suppose, he might've been interesting. Doesn't have to be a good being to be that.

Heh. And you ain't making anypony convinced, y'know? They'll just think you're a crazy changeling. Folks looks at things they way they understand. They see you changing all the time? Well, only beings they know that can do that, are changelings. So, they'll think you're that. Just a bit off the rails perhaps. happened to some of 'em after the Canterlot attack went belly side up."

He'd start gathering their trays with his horn as he spoke, with Blitz's being last, as she were finishing her hayburger and soda. Weren't anything taking that out of her grip until she were done.

On 2021-03-28 at 6:30 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“We have over 42 changelings at our town even before the so-called... Changeling Empire Reformation” Luna shared her knowledge from the books she read at Canterlot, referring to the Metamorphosing of the entire Changeling Empire and the overthrow of Queen Chrysalis from the throne “Their families were one the first settlers of Richville when Scouthoof Spunky started the building of the town. Nopony knows why those changelings came along, all they said Is they wanted to start a new life for themselves”

Ah, so Luna had something to say on changelings too, eh? Made sense, her being a guard and all.

"Well, wasn't all that went with a hive, even before Chrysalis apparently started to amass her numbers, and flexing some muscle. Some were hiveless, or had been banished, or even lost a queen before. Some just wanted a life of their own. Not much different from today, except most places, they're allowed to show their real faces. What with the law being written like that and all, after Thorax popped up.

Think it's a bit much to call what they had an empire though. I mean, sure she had the biggest hive in Equestria, and that means there were a lot of changelings getting changed when the whole shebang went down, but there's a lot of hives out there, and some outside the country, were bigger than hers. Stronger and more ruthless too, if the tales are anything to go by.

Richville sounds like a fancy place. Never heard of it myself, but y'know, hats off to the changelings for being honest and open about things, when they had the chance. Not a lot like the underhoofedness of the sort hiding themselves all the time. Open and honest, gets a lot of way.

Now, you two done eating too, so I can take your trays off, and we can get going?"

Edited March 31, 2021 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

@Califorum @Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom

"Multiple hives huh." Light pondered." Interesting deviation on this dimension... But still very common occurance."

But Light would quickly lose interest as it gives too much nostalgia on his past and would quickly be seen in Light's face of it's discontent.