open Casual stroll

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
As to be expected, Ruby kept just going, not really paying mind to Leviathan's tricks, she wasn't above doing tricks in the air either, but she preferred more extreme ones that she couldn't really do now, like as example, plummeting towards the ground only to glide moments before the crash, tricks were like fighting for her, more dangerous the better, it wasn't a healthy state of mind.

Charir meanwhile observed Leviathan with interest, he wasn't as much confused as he was just curious, his life may have not really encouraged having fun, but he was still a kid, so the playfulness hadn't died off yet. This also showed eventually, as while he didn't do tricks of his own, when Leviathan went around him, he followed her with his eyes, leading him to roll around with her movement, while also letting out a bit of smoke, creating a very short lived smoke ring around himself.

"I'll get something for myself, could you look after Charir? maybe help him if he seems to have trouble hunting." she didn't really give time for Leviathan to answer or argue, as she said something to Charir right away and then separated from the two, Ruby may have started to warm up to having company, but she still preferred hunting alone. Charir meanwhile would climb into a nearby tree and start smelling around, he wouldn't push Leviathan away so to speak, but she'd find that it would be a while before there would be a group hunt of any kind, Charir and Ruby had learned to do things alone, and that didn't change in few days.

If nothing happened, Charir would get a scent and eventually find a young boar to catch, which he would kill by cutting its spine with his claws, as he was too small to easily break its neck, Ruby would appear some time after carrying a bear, its neck would be broken, and the smell of fear would still be lingering on its fur. 

--------------------------------------------------
"We are aware of draconequui, we have had...interactions, with their kind, but it is appreciated you'd think to warn us." Scarecrow stated "Haven't met Discord specifically, but his name is well known, even I know of him, even if I don't remember from where."  sure it probably came up with their little interaction with the other one, but Scarecrow knew he had known about Discord for quite the while, he just didn't know why. 

----------------------------------------------------
The reactions from the lizards were various, Sheska and Trox had least interesting reaction, they had seen all of this before, so they were mainly surprised Onache decided to break the disguise, Sear was mainly curious about the whole thing, as stated, she hadn't met a queen before, so she was curious to see what they'd look like in the new forms, and was mainly surprised by how friendly she looked, they already knew she was a changeling, so the transformation itself wasn't a weird thing, and Chega, well, her reaction was best summarized by the thought that popped up in her mind 'Oh my, so fluffy!' if she wouldn't have know Onache's personality, she would have probably hugged her there and then. 

Chega and Trox would take the offer, while Sheska and Sear stayed out, Sheska didn't say any reason, but it wasn't hard to tell she was uncomfortable with the though of something being send to her mind, and Sear simply stated she wanted to make sure Chega would be aright, neither of them showed distrust towards Onache though, and would have chosen to stay out regardless of who it would have been doing it. 

The reactions to the memory from Trox and Chega were similar but also different, empathy was the general reaction from both, but it was different kind of empathy. From Chega it was pure strong empathy, she wanted to just hug Onache and tell her it was okay, while for Trox it was more from understanding, Onache didn't need to read his mind to be able to see it, there was a clear hint that he could relate at least partly, and while Chega wanted to hug Onache, Trox wanted to put his hand on her shoulder and say that he understood.  As Trox whispered to Sheska to explain what was shown, she too showed same kind of understanding, they may have no experience on having to make such decisions regarding offspring, but they had made some difficult decisions for survival.

"There's two sides to every story." it had been a weird experience, but Chega was happy she had gone through it "And I'll make sure your side doesn't get buried in history." obviously she wasn't going to name Onache at any point, that wasn't her style, but she could be sure that soon a song about a hidden sacrifice would start playing in various taverns around the world.

 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

7 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Omen? Maybe its best if we could hold off on talking about this until we get a better source of information for this subject. That book Rosa suggested might explain it better than us.”

“Though you have to admit, that is a pretty nice name for a book. Maybe I want to check that out as well and see what’s in it. You know… out of curiosity.”

"Remind me to take you to a library, and show you the foal section, one of these days. I think it would surprise you the varied topics, which are written about for foals. This is but one of them, and not the weirdest by far. Others are simply titled painfully ignorantly. One of the more known one, being a book about who helps the elderly, if they become unable to take care of themselves. A useful book, for foals wondering what's happening with their grandparents, but a less than fortunate title, of *Who cares about the elderly?*. It gives it a rather... Dismissive, and demeaning tone, that is most unbecoming, of the sensitive topic."

It was a good book beyond that though. Informative, whilst being sensitive to the younglings, by not mentioning certain less than stellar facts. Such as how some care facilities, were horrendous, and should be burned to the ground. Had his father been sent to one of those, he'd frankly potentially do it, once he had sorted out how to get all of those in there, to leave the place safely first. No elders deserved the sort of treatment, that he had sometimes witnessed, in his line of work. Had been something that had made him swear to himself, that he'd never let his father end up, in a place like that. And then he had left...

*sigh* One more reason why he were a failure, to his poor father... Could he only understand the clue that Zhu had left him, in place of the necklace he took, there might be something he could do. Yet turning it as he had, he still hadn't the faintest idea how to interpret it. He hoped to soon enough get a chance to get to the library, but he needed to get through all of these things first. Could he somehow save his father, Rosa would need a place where he could stay, so he could not abandon the arrangements here. He'd need the stability, and local credentials, to make a difference. And time to scout out a good caretaker for him, that could handle his deteriorating condition well.

He could never make right, the time that he had lost with his father, in his lucid times, before the dementia took over in full. That he had ignored his fathers pleading words for his son, to wallow in his own sadness over that... How could there ever be forgiveness for something like that? The thought of him, alone and scared, as he felt his own mind slipping away, were horrifying to Rosa. Yet he had done that. He had failed his father, and he could never make up for that. All he could do, were at least to try and get his father away, from a place that did likely not look kind to him, as his son was a marked traitor.

9 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Well, well… looks like our little friend here’s figuring things out on his own and got the water running. Nice work, Shrimp. Enjoying your little bath?”

Sen approached the sink to watch the little refraction clean himself, though he’d reach in and start assisting the creature. If Shrimp didn’t like Sen’s meddling, he’d understand and pull his claws back until bath time was done, and he’d turn off the water afterward.

Shrimp chirped in response, but kept at washing himself, without looking towards the others. When Sen came in, and began to interfere, at first, Shrimp would let out a yelp, then move to avert his grasp. Until he came to understand, that Sen were just trying to help him, and not take him away from the small waterfall, before he were done washing. He didn't mind after that, and would even playfully nibble Sen, as he went along.

The wash wouldn't take long, as Shrimp were after all, pretty small. And should only be washed with water. There weren't anything but hoof soap here right now, but soap in general, he would not be pleased by, and would do his outmost to get it off of his scales, if applied to them. Along with hissing. Might be he liked being clean, but soap were not clean in his mind. It were like swamp muck.

Once it were all said and done, and his scales and claws, shined cleanly, he'd let out some happy chirps, and take a few slurps more of water. After he had let out a small burp, Rosa would slowly begin to turn off the water again, just to see if the refraction were done with it, before he stopped the stream fully. But it seemed so, as he'd begin to slither out, and up Sen's arm, to get a nice, comfy position on his head.

"It's interesting to see how focused he seems, on cleaning himself. Most young creatures, of most races, have an aversion to being clean all the time. Yet for him, it seems almost instinctual.

Yet another thing, learned via observation it seems. I wonder what else we'll get to discover, as he grows further. And how much of it will be from his baseline instincts, and how much he'll take in from observing all of us."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

1 hour ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I'll get something for myself, could you look after Charir? maybe help him if he seems to have trouble hunting."

"I'll give him a little hand if he needs it, and stay out of his way otherwise, so he can finish his prey himself. Which I don't doubt he can do. He's a fine little hunter."

It was a pride thing too. She'd imagine, that if she helped, it would cheapen the hunt. Which if she judged by how Ruby at least, seemed fixated on showing how strong she could be, without help from anyone else, and needing help would be an insult. Something that'd make them seem weak. And judging by what she knew of their culture, death were preferable to weakness. Which to her, were pretty messed up honestly. But she had said her piece on that, and frankly, it wouldn't change a thing, if she said so again. Primarily since Charir couldn't understand her.

Though he did seem to understand actions at least, as he had played along to some extend, when Leviathan were having some fun in flight. So there were some understanding, and willingness to participate there, though he still seemed more reserved, that she would've liked. Maybe he were still nervous? Or the childish wonder were just not as prevalent with them? Ah well, they'd teach him the joys of life eventually.

With Ruby leaving, she'd stay behind and watch over Charir, and examining how he hunted in silence. Her own placement would be a fair bit to the side, where she could watch him, without interfering too much with his hunt. Had to place herself a different place than she'd prefer, due to wind, but whatever she could, to not intrude too much on the process.

As he went down and got his prey, she'd scout for trouble. Didn't seem there were any (for once) so Charir would get his prey laid low, rather easily, and in peace. An action which Leviathan would applaud, with a big approving grin.

As for herself, she wouldn't go hunt, but would instead take one of the packs of meat, out of her bag. Or at least, that had been the plan, but her bag was on the cart, so currently not with her. So as she had to make due, she'd scan around, and soon enough point towards a rabbit jumping through. From her finger, would come a thing line of electricity, piercing the rabbit, and killing it instantly. She'd swoop down and grab hold of it after that. Sse weren't as hungry, so she'd do fine with just this, until she got to her bags.

4 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

If nothing happened, Charir would get a scent and eventually find a young boar to catch, which he would kill by cutting its spine with his claws, as he was too small to easily break its neck, Ruby would appear some time after carrying a bear, its neck would be broken, and the smell of fear would still be lingering on its fur. 

"Smells like the hunt went well. Any troublemakers, or were we for once, all allowed to hunt in peace?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I heard rumors, that one of them are living in our forest now. It's... A little disconcerting. Made me hesitant to take the little ones into the forest these days. Depends on which one it is, how bad it could be. I were told one of them looked harmless, but made a lot of strange creatures. And the other were horrifying to gaze at, but nopony felt fear near it. Even heard a few say they felt calmer, than they ever had been before.

*sigh* Very strange creatures, and Discord is apparently, the most powerful of them. Probably the oldest too. You shouldn't be too worried. Most of his big pranks, he doesn't do anymore, ever since Fluttershy kind of... Tamed seems ugly. I guess, taught him, is more accurate? Maybe."

"The famed yellow mare. The animals speak in reverence of her."

"Pretty much all animals like her, so that makes sense. Mhm. I'm not sure if her effect works on you though. It's... I dunno. Maybe it's a connection with nature, maybe with animals. I couldn't tell."

"I have spoken with her, at length. I felt no different around her, though I did enjoy her company. Her animal sanctuary in particular, were very peaceful."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

9 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

The reactions to the memory from Trox and Chega were similar but also different, empathy was the general reaction from both, but it was different kind of empathy. From Chega it was pure strong empathy, she wanted to just hug Onache and tell her it was okay, while for Trox it was more from understanding, Onache didn't need to read his mind to be able to see it, there was a clear hint that he could relate at least partly, and while Chega wanted to hug Onache, Trox wanted to put his hand on her shoulder and say that he understood.  As Trox whispered to Sheska to explain what was shown, she too showed same kind of understanding, they may have no experience on having to make such decisions regarding offspring, but they had made some difficult decisions for survival.

"There's two sides to every story." it had been a weird experience, but Chega was happy she had gone through it "And I'll make sure your side doesn't get buried in history." obviously she wasn't going to name Onache at any point, that wasn't her style, but she could be sure that soon a song about a hidden sacrifice would start playing in various taverns around the world.

Onache did not care for sympathy. She had done what she had done, multiple times, because it was the most merciful option there were. The unknown price of being a changeling queen, in a world that didn't respect their need to feed. The reason for showing them, were so they could see something that would resonate not just with her, but with others too. As well as provide some knowledge, of what a queen's life could sometimes be.

It were also one of the things she could show of interest, that did not portray her as evil. At least any real changeling, worth their salt, wouldn't think her evil for this. It were a tragic duty, and the only way it could be made evil, were if you ordered the drones to do that for you.

A real queen didn't just control her drones. She'd take responsibility, and do the hardest things personally. This duty... She had never entrusted others with it, nor the cleaning afterwards. It were her responsibility. Just as it were to hunt down, and eliminate her own changelings, in case they underwent mind death. The only merciful thing one could do for them by then, and something which every changeling feared to undergo.

"Any changeling should know that this is something which happens, even if we rarely, if ever, speak of it. It will give you something to sing of, that can be related to, by my kind. Make with it what you wish, though understand that I did not share this, to garner sympathy. You wished for a tale, and such, I gave you one that I doubt most ponies have the faintest idea of, nor would understand the necessity of. An important aspect though, and the reason why you now see me as *fluffy*. I don't much care for the design, yet I accepted, by the promise that like this, my nymphs would not grow up, needing to feast upon others, for nourishment. And any solution which does not leave them hungry, and fearing encroaching mind death, is one I am willing to listen to.

Some duplicity, by beings above my station, were still part of the process, but it is yet for the better. Now I need no longer to hunt, nor cull. And with no need to hunt, I have no reason to be as I were before."

Onache would look at Trox, with a set glance into his eyes. During which, he'd find something were said to his mind, and his mind alone.

"It saddens me, that you can relate."

She promised she wouldn't pry. Didn't mean she couldn't send something. That were not written into her promise. Though seeing this gaze, made her somewhat sad that she couldn't pry. There seemed to be a story in his eyes, which hurt him. A shame that he had that, with all else, he were carrying around.

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

 

@Starforce

On 2022-02-19 at 3:55 AM, Magnolia said:

Looking to Soul and Macabre she'd smile lightly. "It appears that I am not the only one to have a re-union today, and not the only one to learn lessons. Do yourselves a favor and appreciate family while you have it, and beyond that as well. I regret judging you earlier, Soul. I won't pry myself into your family affairs but I am quite glad that you two were able to resolve it. As for me, I have another puzzle piece. Another re-union made that I never thought possible. How often we do not see ourselves in the realms of possibility and find ourselves surprised where we end up."

"It was an accident. A building collapsed, and crushed Soul's cousins.

The damage were extensive. Multiple limbs unusable, and internal parts damaged substantially. They would not have lived through the night.

There is a room here, which contains certain forbidden relics. Against the rules, Soul broke in there, and stole the mark, and tools of a stitcher. An older, necromantic profession, where as little said of it as possible, is better. Though the title should give you some idea what the craft are capable of.

As I understand it, he then knocked out the guards in he medical wing, and where there were once two ponies, were soon but one. Realistically, they should not have made it through that, nor should he, as he should not have the capability to hold these powers. The mares of the Macabre clan, are the only ones that can harness death, through their curse. The stallions support, and help in other ways, but they do not have the powers themselves, and a Stitcher's craft, should require one already attuned with the powers, to harness them without sacrifice."

"...There were sacrifice. My wings. My pound of flesh, willingly given.

A small price to pay, to save them."

Soul kept hold of his grandmother, as he paused briefly, before adding a small bit more. Said in a hurt, yet stubborn, dark voice.

"Apart there were none, together, they are one."

"Yes, and do feel free to keep the grizzly details for yourself."

On 2022-02-19 at 3:55 AM, Magnolia said:

"I wouldn't mind knowing the location of this place. All this time I actually have had no idea where we are in relations to the other places. I intend on coming here again in the future for obvious reasons. I am sure that you would be an excellent teacher in magic, Alluria. I want to broaden my horizons, both in my perceptions and also in my practices." she spoke, that small smile once again returning on her face. It was clear that Magnolia was a very curious sort, just like Twilight. Runs in the family, after all.

"Bring forth a map, and I shall mark upon it this location. Lest you have none? I can procure one, if need be."

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

 

@Kujamih

On 2022-02-19 at 11:48 AM, Kujamih said:

"I finally found you Light..." 

" Hey mom? I'm having a nice day... I have this friend, I really wanna meat and introduce you too... His name is Light. Let's go meet him shall we?

"...You seem to have calmed down, so sure, why not? Finish your breakfast first though, then we go see your friend. And be nice to him, or you're getting a timeout."

Anomaly wasn't stupid per se, it were just a regular issue with draconequui. Beings based on being rather silly, and living in a world, where the rules of nature bend to their wills. Immortal demigods, and pranksters as they were, they had an issue with not being overly cautious. Hardly ever a reason to, when one were like them. Which meant they tended to be semi-easy to trick. As Cali had just about come to understand now.

Once everything were said and done, Anomaly would pack up, and have a giant plant eat them up, and begin the transport, to where they needed to go.

On 2022-02-19 at 11:48 AM, Kujamih said:

" But... My responsibilities..." Lights mind right now is filled with doubt and confusion.

Light looks at Anomaly like a lost child. Looking at her.

"Heh?" 

"Jeez, they're that important to you? I figured it was shrapnel. Wanted to put it in my evening salad, but fine fine, you can have them back."

Anomaly would cough up a thick, leather bag, rattling with the sound of dark gems within. She did figure they looked kinda weird, but waste not, want not, right? Yet it seemed he were having an existential crisis, and she really didn't much care to deal with that right now.

That being said... Maybe she should inquire what these things were first. Seeing how there were someone coming for them.

"Say, what are they for? And what'd happen if I say, threw them out? Would that stop the mare who's coming back to kill you in a few minutes, from doing so? Or helping her?"

Shark's ears perked, as she heard this, and her muzzle contorted in a growl, showing her razor-sharp teeth, even more prominently.

"No one hurt friend! No kill. I hurt them!"

"Oh, don't be so dramatic about it. I'm sure it'll be fine. Although my other half, are acting dumb. Silly thing. Bringing this... Cali, I think the text says, right here. Anything I outta watch out for? Cause if ponies starts getting killed in this forest, I'm the one that's gonna be hunted down, so really wanna avoid that whole thing. And I think Shark's on the same page. Heh, you really know how to pick 'em, eh lover-boy?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom @Starforce

As  the flower ate them and transport them were they want them to be. Cali snuggled Anomaly.

as they entered the domain where the real Anomaly is and Light. Cali was struck by Light with a black shard from afar.

blood would spill as Anomaly gaze upon this events unfolding right before her eyes.

Cali would once again reach out towards the clone anomaly. "....mom?" She says as she spat out blood.

 

meanwhile....

as the rattling dark shards were spat out by Anomaly Light would snap out of his daze.

" Wait that thing was inside of you!... And you even let it out!?." Light panicked.

" That thing is highly toxic to magic users! Especially draconicous who are made of pure magic! That thing absorbs all sources of non changeling magic! Anyone within eye vision of this thing would attract it and absorb it's magic! So whatever you do don't look at it! You'd be lucky.... Hmm why is it not working?"

Light was confused as it seems to not faze the Draconicous... let alone was able to extract it out from his body.

but they're attention to this shard would be cut off by the appearance of Cali...

what would be the tide of events to happen? 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Starforce

On 2022-02-21 at 6:09 AM, Magnolia said:

Magnolia looked to Soul and then back to Alluria. "Unfortunately I don't have a map with me at the moment."

"Grave Robber!"

A minute mare would scurry out from behind a shelf in the library, and nervously look up towards Alluria, through her thick glasses.

"Y-Yes, Miss Sparkle?"

"I need a regional map. With all due haste."

"Of c-course, Miss Sparkle."

The mare would scurry off. Likely to find a map, before the ghost's ire would fall upon her.

"A map shall be forthcoming. I shall mark it then."

On 2022-02-21 at 6:09 AM, Magnolia said:

"It is most unfortunate your family found themselves in that situation. I realize that you are loyal to your family. Many can learn from that. Especially my...parents..." she said with a great deal of grit in her word. That'd soon vanish as she continued. "I hope that in time, those around here realize what family means. As well as the sacrifices Soul has made for those he loved. He shouldn't be disrespected around here anymore. I am sure that won't be the case for much longer." she'd smile slightly as she left it at that. 

"Only a few judge him still. They see what good he could do, and how he persevered. The word on what he does, make more approve too. A thankless job, yet one which must be done.

In time though, I would wish for you to take time away, and return here for a time, Soul. There are things which I would like to prepare you for."

"I will find the time. How long would I need?"

"Two months at the least. We will cover why later, even if it cannot be postponed forever. I have done so for far too long, as it is."

"Understood. And speaking of preparing, there will come another here, within the next few days I would think. The friend of Magnolia. She's haunted by her late husband, and need closure."

"I will ensure that Last Wishes, prepares the auditorium. Your friend will be expected, when she have time, Magnolia."

Alluria gave Macabre some odd glances, throughout this talk. Something which she said, seemed to have caused her to think. In a good or bad way, were hard to say. Alluria had a pretty good poker face, when she didn't try to show any.

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

 

@Kujamih

(before they showed up)

"They're toxic? Huh, fancy that. Though y'know, they're in a bag, silly thing. No light there, so checkmate."

Light would get a hat on, reminiscent of A Rook, falling down from a nearby tree.

Anomaly wasn't overly concerned here. She didn't feel worse, so she were likely fine. A little less powered up, due to splitting herself of course, but that were what that were. Wasn't like this were a weakness of hers. It wasn't pure iron, or pure silver. Go figure that she'd be so *lucky* the have the same weaknesses, as a faerie of myth, huh?

(after the others showed up)

"Wha- NO!!! Why did you Do that?!"

The illusion were affecting her pretty well it seemed. All this version of Anomaly saw, were Cali being killed by Light. Aaaaand maybe she were a little too wrapped up in the illusion then saying *mom?*, to not react to things.

Now, Anomaly wasn't a creature of death. This version were no different there, but she could still do things. In current case, summon vines from the ground, barbed with a paralytic, that'd lash out towards Light. Yet with a snap, they'd all turn into bubbles, pelting him harmlessly, and popping with the fresh scent of dead rats.

What? OG Anomaly might help, but she were still a draconequii. She had to have some fun herself.

"Alright, that's enough. Snap out of it, hehe."

"Get outta my way, meddlesome... Me."

The two of them would then be busy trading blows. Nothing massively serious. Just some friendly dismemberment and throwing of live cats, giant pumpkins, chocolate squirt guns- That sort of thing. But it would leave them occupied for the time being.

Which meant it were now just Cali, and Light. And Shark, who'd place herself in front of Light, and look towards Cali with her tail raised, and teeth barred. The look in her eyes wasn't nice either. No big surprise though: She were tired of seeing others hurt her friend. She'd hurt them, if they kept trying. Not by killing though. She had understood she weren't allowed to do that, but she could still toss someone around, or bash into them like a ram.

"No hurt friend! No more mean ones, doing bad things. Will stop."

Edited February 23, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-02-21 at 5:41 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Remind me to take you to a library, and show you the foal section, one of these days. I think it would surprise you the varied topics, which are written about for foals. This is but one of them, and not the weirdest by far. Others are simply titled painfully ignorantly. One of the more known one, being a book about who helps the elderly, if they become unable to take care of themselves. A useful book, for foals wondering what's happening with their grandparents, but a less than fortunate title, of *Who cares about the elderly?*. It gives it a rather... Dismissive, and demeaning tone, that is most unbecoming, of the sensitive topic."

“Well that doesn’t sound right. That’s not a very nice title for a book if attitudes toward the elderly are as dismissive as you say. It’s only right that children should take it upon themselves to give back to their parents. I… oh… I remembered what you told us about your father. Sorry, I didn’t mean for this to go there. Let’s just drop this conversation.”

Lin quickly grew somber at the thought, partly because of Rosa’s family history and partly because of her own. She may have recalled the longma’s practices, but she wasn’t exactly in the right position to spout those sentiments when even she’s neglecting her last remaining grandparent. Despite only knowing about him being alive recently, she clung to the knowledge that their village’s healer was also looking after him when she isn’t tending to others or out gathering more medicinal herbs. Perhaps when she has time away from Equestria, she and her brother will get a chance to catch up with grandfather. 

As for Sen, he was content to let Shrimp bathe on his own, but he enjoyed the playful nibbling. No one kept pets back home, but raising a little creature was certainly an experience worth undertaking. It helped that even at his age, Shrimp was already able to understand him. Being a fast learner had its perks, and who knows what the refraction will learn many years down the road. It’ll be interesting to see what he’ll be when he’s all grown up.

For now, the longma would like dry himself, lest his head become soggy from the refraction’s bath. He’d settle for grabbing the nearest towel to get himself cleaned and doing the same for Shrimp. He’d never forget to be gentle, and if he had that towel, he’d loosely wrap it around the refraction to get the water dried of his scales. It wasn’t something common back home, but he saw it enough times away from home that it was an ingrained practice. If there wasn’t a towel nearby, he’d go with whatever was the next best alternative, even if it was his own wings. 

“I’m sure this is Shrimp learning this on his own. I don’t recall showing him how to bathe and clean himself, and this is all just him. Pretty impressive by the looks of it, and I am glad we got this chance to see it. I just hope we can get him to see you as trustworthy, but that is going to take some time.”

“Maybe with Omen’s scent being around us so often, it could also get stuck on you, Rosa? Or that might just be wishful thinking. Anyway, we got a bit of time to spend, and I guess we’ve covered the home decorating part. You want to just rest here or head to the library? I recall seeing it along the town square.” 

Edited February 23, 2022 by EQ_Theta

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

" I see you've been busy Light? I have too..." She says, as she manipulates the Draconicous to distract the other half of it.

"Let's dance!"

She charged towards shark and Light.

Her body released tentacles with scythes at it's end, to slash her opponents.

Even though light lost his Shards, he was a trained earth pony, and was able to dodge some of the scythe while some scrapped him.

" Ahh shoot... I forgot how hard it is to be an earth pony again."

Cali noticed something was off with Light, so she started focusing on Shark.

" You're up to something light... If you don't take things seriously, you'll end up making the same mistakes again and losing your loved ones once again."

Cali would then place another device at the ground.

A make shift portal device.

"Mom, over here please help!"

Cali is trying to lure the hypnotized draconicous.

Light had a bad gut feeling on what Cali is planning.

" No stop Cali! I give!" 

Edited February 23, 2022 by Kujamih

[Plum Blossom]

@Blitz Boom 

"I like to help my family too. There's always s much to do around the farm, but my older sister always manages to make it interesting," Plum Blossom replied.

"Oh, my family had that dog for a long time now. In fact, the dog is almost as old as I am, though she's still as energetic as a young puppy. Oh, and her name is Willena," Plum Blossom explained. She was quite fond of the family dog, and Willena often helped out around the farm in many different ways.

"Anyways, I know where we can start. That is the town hall," Plum Blossom said, pointing to the round circular building sticking above the rooftops. "It's not really that interesting, but it's useful because it marks the center of town in case you ever get lost. However, what is interesting, is Sugarcube Corner," Plum Blossom exclaimed, leading the way there.

"This is the town bakery and it is always very popular. It is run by Mr. and. Mrs Cake and Pinkie Pie. Sometimes I do baking with them there. Pinkie Pie is a very interesting character, and you will learn a lot more about her very soon," Plum Blossom said, hinting at the "Welcome to Ponyville" parties that Pinkie Pie throws. "Want to get a cupcake?"

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Rising Dusk

Lily were silent as mother and daughter spoke, out of respect for what seemed to be a moment between them. Yet she did raise an eyebrow, uncertain of what she had said, that had seemingly been so amusing to Dawn, yet less so to her mother. An internal joke perhaps? She'd need to ask, but had to wait for a proper time to do so. Which would likely be when the mother dismissed the spell, and would begin her own preparations.

On 2022-02-14 at 9:45 PM, Rising Dusk said:

Dawn finished her little fit and dabbed at tears that were forming in the corner of her eyes.  "Oh, what a joy," she muttered and tapped the mirror, returning it to a reflective surface.  Sliding off her stool caused it and the vanity to sink and melt back into the floor.  Still a little distracted, she wandered over to the wall, "Now which one of these is my closet?" she inquired.  Swiping her hoof through the air from left to right.  All the doors in the long house slide along the walls as if not attached.  Doors zoomed by before the unicorn until a decorated, flowery, lavender door that didn't match the rest of the room, stopped in front of her.  It opened on its own to reveal a cottage on the other side.  Well, a cottage that had been designed and made into just a giant walk in closet.  Natural sunlight beamed in from windows, taking them away from the torch and brazier firelight provided by the longhouse.  Rows and rows of racks with outfits snaked about the cottage and a dozen armoires appeared to stand in random, unorganized places. 

There would still be pause, as she'd witness yet another example of not just vast space, and untold riches, but also magical flair, from Dawn. A curious spectacle, which she were not sad to admit, had her somewhat jealous. The things one could do, with this much power... Good things, of course. She might have studied under an evil tyrant, but that didn't mean she wished to be one herself. It were just the result of a long list, of poor life choices.

As the true door she sought, seemed to come into light, the splendor of it all, hit Lily rather hard. In silence, she'd take a few steps forward, to better see what were in this room, and gazed upon the rows and rows of cloth, in what amazed to being the biggest closet, that Lily would ever gaze upon in her entire life.

"There are more cloth in this one room, than I have seen in entire villages. What some wouldn't give, to have so much to use of...

I mean not to sound jealous, nor condemn you for your riches. You have earned where you are, of that I am certain. It just... Puts things in perspective, to see how so much, can be in the hooves of one, when I grew up seeing less than this for decades on end. At times, it can yet be hard to fathom such a thing, from one who are not even a ruler. I shudder to think how vast the resources are, for your princesses."

She'd be silent for a few seconds, looking around further, with curious, somewhat awestruck eyes. Maybe someday, she'd see something like this in her own land, during her lifetime. She'd like that, even if it were mostly for those high in society. It were still better than for it all, to go to one, with a few of his favored lackeys gaining some extra, for their servitude and assistance. If regular beings could get even a fifth of this though, if they set their minds to it, it would show great improvements. Something which would take time, but hopefully in a few years, things would begin to look up properly.

"Speaking of shuddering... The little incident earlier. Might I ask for context to that? Do you not leash those you care for in Equestria, when traversing dangerous areas? What reason were there, for the amusement you seemed to derive from it?"

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

On 2022-02-23 at 11:24 AM, Kujamih said:

Her body released tentacles with scythes at it's end, to slash her opponents.

Even though light lost his Shards, he was a trained earth pony, and was able to dodge some of the scythe while some scrapped him.

Shark were a nimble sort, yet she too got hit by a few. Mostly just cuts and scraps, but there did come a reasonably slice down the side of her cheek, that had some blood start to drip down, ever so slowly. Seemed like this one certainly were aiming to only do bad things, so she'd go on the offensive after that, charging headfirst, aiming to bite into one of Cali's hoof, and throw her into the river. She'd be able to, if she out the effort in, as she had the muscles to actually throw a regular sized, normal weighted mare that far.

Meanwhile, the two Anomaly's, were beginning to assault each other with various odd animals, thrown at one another. Or well, it were the same two, constantly getting changed by whomever had the one in question, before being tossed back, or occasionally, battling one another. Describing them would be pointless, as the rapid transformation of the feral things, kept it in a constant flux.

No matter how Shark's attempt at attacking would go, eventually, they'd reach the critical point of no return.

On 2022-02-23 at 11:24 AM, Kujamih said:

"Mom, over here please help!"

Cali is trying to lure the hypnotized draconicous.

Light had a bad gut feeling on what Cali is planning.

" No stop Cali! I give!" 

"No! Nonono- No more fighting!"

Other Anomaly, saw the attack going on, in this myriad of insanity. And not the good kind of insanity, mind you, and screamed skywards. Or well, it wasn't a scream that came out, as much as a myriad of small crumbs, that rapidly expanded into large loafs of fluffy bread, that'd seek out and engulf everyone, and everything, that it came into contact with. And she wouldn't stop doing this, until everyone had stopped fighting. Forcefully. Though Cali would be the first one to get picked out by a swarm of these, so that she could get some protective layers, keeping her safe from the rampaging Shark. Honestly though, a solid slash, and she might be able to tip her over, and send her rolling towards the portal, if that was her want. Wouldn't be nice of her though.

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

 

@Starforce

"She is not the first, that is beyond help, which most can provide. It is why we are here. We serve the purpose, of solving that, which most cannot. We will ensure she gets to say a proper farewell, then guide him towards whatever afterlife awaits. Be it good or bad, is not for us to decide upon. We can only open the gate, while their actions decide their resting place. Tartarus, Elysium, or Purgatory, til they are one day prepared for rebirth."

"A lot of good that did me."

Alluria hadn't much time to be displeased, as Grave Robber came around a stack, holding a large, rolled up parchment, the height of Magnolia's torso and head combined. Likely a map.

"Y-Your map, Miss Sparkle."

Alluria would levitate it up, and unfold it, showing a spectacularly detailed map, of Equestria. Only a few settlements, risen within the last few decades were missing, but they were of little importance right now.

"Punctually. Return to your studies."

"Y-Yes Miss Sparkle."

She'd scurry off again, while Alluria turned, and showed where on the map they were. Near the middle, of the three cities in this forest. The Breezie village had a name, and a large question mark though, rather than an exact placement, nor look. A security measure, which needed to be upheld still, for the foreseeable future.

"This is our location, compared to others in Equestria. Ignore the breezies home, if you are looking for pinpoints. It will not serve you well."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-02-23 at 8:18 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Well that doesn’t sound right. That’s not a very nice title for a book if attitudes toward the elderly are as dismissive as you say. It’s only right that children should take it upon themselves to give back to their parents. I… oh… I remembered what you told us about your father. Sorry, I didn’t mean for this to go there. Let’s just drop this conversation.”

"You... Needn't apologize for that. My father is... He's unable to care for himself, nor can I care for him, or would be worthy to even gaze upon him anymore. I am a traitor to all he worked for, and a failure as his son, for leaving him behind, when he desperately cried out for me, in the months he began to slip away. Even if I came to understand what Zhu's message meant, and could retrieve him, the best I could do, were finding someplace that could ensure his last years were comfortable, away from his disappointment of a son.

*long, drawn out sigh* Sorry. I didn't mean to drag the mood down. I know your culture, you care for your parents, as they did you, and I admire that. Optimally, I would have liked to do the same, but there is nothing I can do there, even if I weren't several countries away from him now. He needs professional care. Not one who'd just fail to hear his cries again."

How lovely things had turned here. Were it not for Shrimp, the whole mood here, would likely get so depressing, that Omen would be able to feel it. Blessed they were though, he'd at least remain cute and playful, giving a ray of sunlight, sorely needed, in the midst of all of this.

On 2022-02-23 at 8:18 AM, EQ_Theta said:

For now, the longma would like dry himself, lest his head become soggy from the refraction’s bath. He’d settle for grabbing the nearest towel to get himself cleaned and doing the same for Shrimp. He’d never forget to be gentle, and if he had that towel, he’d loosely wrap it around the refraction to get the water dried of his scales. It wasn’t something common back home, but he saw it enough times away from home that it was an ingrained practice. If there wasn’t a towel nearby, he’d go with whatever was the next best alternative, even if it was his own wings

Shrimp would cheerfully accept the towel (one were next to the sink), but wouldn't be dried off by help alone. Rather, he'd twist and twirl in the blanket, trying to dry his scales on the soft, dry surface. And when he were done, he'd nibble at it, to see what sort of thing it were. He wasn't sure, but it wasn't food, that was for sure. Didn't taste good. Was good for afterbaths though, yes. He'd have to try and remember this.

On 2022-02-23 at 8:18 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’m sure this is Shrimp learning this on his own. I don’t recall showing him how to bathe and clean himself, and this is all just him. Pretty impressive by the looks of it, and I am glad we got this chance to see it. I just hope we can get him to see you as trustworthy, but that is going to take some time.”

“Maybe with Omen’s scent being around us so often, it could also get stuck on you, Rosa? Or that might just be wishful thinking. Anyway, we got a bit of time to spend, and I guess we’ve covered the home decorating part. You want to just rest here or head to the library? I recall seeing it along the town square.” 

Before he could answer, Rosa would find that Omen had gone over, and began to do something which helped him well, in getting out of his  malady: She started to rub up against him like a cat, as well as using her tongue to ruffle through his mane. And he were looking utterly flabbergasted from this. At he were for a few moments, as various responses came through his head, before he finally had one. One that popped in, once he had understood what it were she were doing, by rubbing herself against him like this.

"Wha- I uhm... I-It... Omen? Are you trying to rub your scent on me, as if you were a ca- Pet."

"Yes. Is it working?"

It would, though faintly at best. Omen didn't have much of an odor, due to her not being able to sweat, among other things.

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

 

@Ocean Wavedream

On 2022-02-23 at 4:34 PM, Plum Blossom said:

"I like to help my family too. There's always s much to do around the farm, but my older sister always manages to make it interesting," Plum Blossom replied.

"Oh, my family had that dog for a long time now. In fact, the dog is almost as old as I am, though she's still as energetic as a young puppy. Oh, and her name is Willena," Plum Blossom explained. She was quite fond of the family dog, and Willena often helped out around the farm in many different ways.

"Awh, a cute farm doggo. I'd love to see him sometimes, when there's not lots of busy things to do. We don't have farms in Canterlot, but I hear it's hard, important work. I mean, of course it's important, since farmers makes sure we have food, so they're really important. Even though the snooty foals didn't like them. Kept saying nasty things to farm ponies. They're very rude, some of them."

On 2022-02-23 at 4:34 PM, Plum Blossom said:

"Anyways, I know where we can start. That is the town hall," Plum Blossom said, pointing to the round circular building sticking above the rooftops. "It's not really that interesting, but it's useful because it marks the center of town in case you ever get lost. However, what is interesting, is Sugarcube Corner," Plum Blossom exclaimed, leading the way there.

"This is the town bakery and it is always very popular. It is run by Mr. and. Mrs Cake and Pinkie Pie. Sometimes I do baking with them there. Pinkie Pie is a very interesting character, and you will learn a lot more about her very soon," Plum Blossom said, hinting at the "Welcome to Ponyville" parties that Pinkie Pie throws. "Want to get a cupcake?"

"Ooooh, I know the Town Hall. My daddy goes there to speak with Mayor Mare. She's a very nice mare, and her office is pretty. He speaks with her a lot, he says. Makes him get a big smile on his face."

With how tired Stargazer tended to look, with how much were to do in this time, she liked that he had somepony he could talk to, that were making him smile. She didn't know about what though. The little she had seen the mayor, she had been a very nice mare, but she still didn't know a whole lot. Her daddy and the mayor, had spoken mostly by themselves in the office. Sounded like it was some important guard things. Maybe something to do with their home too, now. Not good it had been broken down, but they were all alive. That was the most important thing, right?

Jelly would follow along as she spoke, walking on the ground, instead of flying. Which Plum would in time get to realize, she did most of the time. It had a lot to do with Gary. Caring for him, he couldn't stay on well, when he were much tinier, so she just walked around, and it had stuck as a habit. Not that it was a bad thing either. Would make sure she kept her legs well used, and strong. She'd need that, when she'd eventually go try the guard training herself.

"Oooooh. I heard about Pinkie Pie, in Canterlot too. She's really famous. Is it true she is an earth pony, but have strange, mysterious powers?

And cupcakes sounds yummy. Do they have jelly ones? Filled cupcakes are the best. Same with doughnuts."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Starforce @Blitz Boom

Cali would still reluctantly slash off the crumbs, and would cry out for assistance towards the other Draconicous.

" Mom!"

Light noticed that a prolonged fight would only cause more trouble than it's worth and would hate to see the ponies he know fight.

 But Light can't even get near the rampaging Cali.

As he was thinking and backing away from her attacks he accidentally stepped the sack fool of black shards.

the shards starts to shine when in contact with light and starts absorbing magic around it.

Light then grabs the sack of shards and prepares to throw it towards Cali.

" Cali! I said enough!" He screamed as he throws the shards towards her.

Cali would easily swat the sack.

"Please as if that would..." Cali was stopped from her tracks as the shards react violently to her.

" What?"

the shards would then violently cling towards Cali and merge inside her.

"Ahh! Noo!" Cali frustratingly cried out.

her hold towards the Draconicous would break as she focus on escaping from the shard's clutches.

 

"What's going on?" Light shockingly said.

As Cali struggles to break free from the shards, she would trip the trap portal and caused her to slip inside. And go through the magic graveyard.

"Wait no!" Light tries to chase after Cali and save her but she was already deep into the portal.

 

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-02-25 at 6:06 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Wha- I uhm... I-It... Omen? Are you trying to rub your scent on me, as if you were a ca- Pet."

"Yes. Is it working?"

“We wouldn’t know much it worked unless Shrimp tries something, and even he might know something is different if he’s working with something more than just his sense of smell. I gotta say, Omen, you never cease to amaze… or confuse. Seeing this display, I think the cat from the bakery might have left an impression on you after it rubbed itself on your legs.”

“Do this enough times and Shrimp might start thinking you’ve become a cat.”

Sen and Lin chuckled at the thought. It was strange seeing Omen do something a cat would do, rubbing itself on someone or something to mark its scent. Shrimp didn’t like seeing Munchkin do that, and the cat was already pushing its luck. Still, it seemed like it may have developed some kind of interest in Omen if it was being nice to her. If that cat was really a stray doing its own thing, who knows what will become of it beyond lounging at the local bakery. The siblings would stick around to see how Shrimp would respond in this situation. Maybe he’d pick up on the scent on Rosa, or maybe he won’t.

However, Sen still couldn’t help but overhear Lin’s and Rosa’s conversation from a little earlier. He couldn’t imagine what it was like to have memories slowly taken away as one grew older. The whole idea of a disease that could do that is unfathomable, and yet it exists. The worse part was the toll it was taking on his friend, and he couldn’t help but feel for him. That kind of pain is the one that he had to try to ease somehow.

On 2022-02-25 at 6:06 AM, Blitz Boom said:

 

"You... Needn't apologize for that. My father is... He's unable to care for himself, nor can I care for him, or would be worthy to even gaze upon him anymore. I am a traitor to all he worked for, and a failure as his son, for leaving him behind, when he desperately cried out for me, in the months he began to slip away. Even if I came to understand what Zhu's message meant, and could retrieve him, the best I could do, were finding someplace that could ensure his last years were comfortable, away from his disappointment of a son.

*long, drawn out sigh* Sorry. I didn't mean to drag the mood down. I know your culture, you care for your parents, as they did you, and I admire that. Optimally, I would have liked to do the same, but there is nothing I can do there, even if I weren't several countries away from him now. He needs professional care. Not one who'd just fail to hear his cries again."

“Rosa? Can I have a word? Preferable somewhere private. This pain you’re carrying about your father. I’m… worried about this and how its eating at you. Would doing something about it help ease your pain? Visiting and just… saying things that need to be said?”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
Charir didn't really know how to react seeing Leviathan's approval as he glanced at her while checking his surroundings after the kill, it felt weirdly nice, but since nobody had really given him any kind of compliments before, his reward for doing something right in the past being a lack of punishment at best, he didn't really know what it was he felt, because while he had pride like any other dragon, there was a difference between having pride and being truly proud of oneself.

Something that an observant individual may have noticed about Charir and Ruby was that, ultimately, their pride was but a front, fueled by a deeply rooted lack of self-esteem and worth, because would not a truly proud creature carry their failures proudly?

"No trouble, only wild animals." Ruby stated as she dropped the bear on the ground "Hopefully it stays like that, I have had enough magical freaks for a while." she then proceeded to eat, and like the siblings they were, Charir and Ruby did things very similarly, cutting the skin cleanly out of the way before feasting on the meat.

This style of doing things didn't actually come from the need to protect the hide, even if they sometimes used the hides for things, and rather was just a habit that came from their home, as the hostile, close to uninhabitable land they called home was such that even prey needed certain features to simply survive the environment, one of those things being durable and thick skin, and while dragons could easily bite through it, it was tasteless and chewy at best, and unpleasant at worst, so they just preferred to cut it out of the way to get to the more tasty parts, and like any habit, it stuck with them, even if the skins of animals here were lot less unpleasant to eat.

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

"I also know of her, It could be some kind of magic she naturally generates, since she speaks normally to them, could be connected to that stare of hers." Scarecrow said as his two cents "I know of one other pony that can communicate with animals, I do not know his name, but he is a bat pony, lives in the forest, I have never heard him to say a word to anyone or anything, regardless of him being rather social, but he seems to be able to imitate animals to the extent he can communicate with them." the memory had kinda just appeared to his mind, but that was normal to him, there were many things he thought he didn't remember, that only showed themselves when triggered by something else than him trying to remember them. 

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

All the lizards listened interested, even Sear and Chega, who knew quite a bit about changelings at this point, didn't know about things like mind death, though it did make sense, since it wasn't hard to guess why those they had met hadn't talked about such concept, and it wasn't a secret that pony documentation on different creatures could have been better and less one sided, granted they were trying, or well, Twilight was trying, but it was lot of work that would take a while.

"It is quite the wild concept that a species can just change like that with everything from their appearance to their dietary needs changing." Chega said in surprisingly analytical manner, she may have been a goofball and a love stricken bard, but she was still well educated kobold, after all, one wouldn't leave to the surface without educating themselves first as well as possible. "Granted we kobolds change quickly depending on our environment too, but as I have understood it, we are not talking about generational change with your kind, and rather an instant one." she didn't really expect a response to her words, as indicated by her thoughtful manner of speak, it was more her sharing her thoughts out loud, though she would listen any possible response with interest.

Trox reacted to Onache's words with a slow blink and slight head movement, it mirrored his thoughts, signaling a message in lines of, 'everyone has their demons, we just gotta live with them', the unfortunate truth was that he and Sheska were used to it, as much as you could get used to it, and ultimately, it was like Onache said earlier, 'new age, should not bear old scars.', war was horrible for everyone involved, and now they could only look forward and hope they'd never have to return to it. 

Sear noticed the exchange of looks between the two, but besides feeling a kind of sympathetic curiosity, she didn't do or think much about it

Chega, wanting to keep things positive, continued  "But I'm happy that the change is a positive one, you may not like your....less threatening look...." she thought she looked adorable, but decided to not say it out loud "...but I'm sure you'll get used to it." 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

Other-Anomaly would've come over near Cali when she were called out for, after stopping the bread assault. She'd taken a... Well, whatever it were, it had a lot of teeth, and had been thrown at her head, then tossed back with a lot of suction cups and red eyes.

When things escalated though, it really took a turn. Even with the magical veil lifted from her eyes, Other-Anomaly would rush over towards Cali instantly, as she were being sucked into the magical portal, and would throw a vine from her mouth out, to grab hold of her torso, and attempt to draw her back. No matter how deep in she were. Laws of reality had no place for a draconequui. Something which sadly, might have another effect entirely. That being, sucking her into the dark dimension with Cali, trapping them both in a magicless, dark space of crystals. It depended how strong the draw were from the portal. This one though, would do her darnest to get Cali back. Including unravelling her tail, which turned into three long cords, wrapping around the nearest trees.

"Ngggh.... Don't... Let... Go..."

This version of the draconequui, hadn't the foggiest idea about what were really going on, beyond Cali being drawn to the bad place, she had shown off before, and she didn't want any creature to suffer that fate. Which might end up resulting in instead, two being claimed by it.

Of course, if Other-Anomaly couldn't reach Cali, she'd have instead tried to jump in to get her instead, and just have the vines stay back here as a rope, provided it hadn't closed.

Shark meanwhile, would stand over at Light, and shield him still. Some more cuts on bruises were shown on her after the fight, and she were looking rather dirty from the various impacts into the ground and other objects, but she'd stand steadfast, protecting Light, until she saw the attackers would be gone. This was Her friend. The one who were trying to hurt him, were not friend. Not food either, so... Eeeene-myyyy. Enemy, yes? Bad one, who were enemy.

If Light tried to go there, she'd bite into his tail, and force him back. She hadn't a clue what this were, but it were clearly a bad place. He were not going to go there.

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

 

@Starforce

On 2022-02-25 at 3:58 AM, Magnolia said:

"I hope that you have a way to send a letter, actually. You know, It would be better for me to write some letters to both Twilight Sparkle and Shining Armor - as well as my parents. You gotta have some post service around here, and this would be the best way to make my presence known is so that they can know that I well, exist, for a lack of a better word. And that way it would lay the ground work for future interactions. How about that?" she asked. 

"Yes, there is mail delivery. Either through the postal office, that resides within the Moonlit Thicket, that does over-night deliveries. Or as I am preferential towards: Via owl, directly from this estate. I shall direct you to there, once you have written down what you wish. Hold for a moment."

Alluria would float over the goose feather and ink quill that she had used to write herself earlier, as well as some rolled up parchment, which were located under every bookshelf within this grand library. A little old fashioned, but she found more comfort in this, as well as usability, than in pens. Her thoughts on those things were rather harsh, as they did not produce writing quality worth gazing upon. At best, she'd accept a type writer, but mostly she went with these tools of the trade.

On 2022-02-25 at 3:58 AM, Magnolia said:

"Soul, tell you what. Maybe you can go back and bring Zeehva back to here. I know she has likely completed her shopping by now and her and I could stay around in this place for a while. We weren't going to get much done in Deltrot anyways, I have a feeling if the two of us stay within this area for a while it would do us some good, most certainly for her. This would give me an outlet to write those letters, what do you think?" she asked, wondering what they thought of the idea. 

"...Very well. I'll go get hold of her. Though remember that she cannot traverse the way here, that we did. It will be at least some hours, before I get back here the regular way. Brace yourself with patience."

"We shall take well care of her. And perhaps when you do return, Puppet will have risen from her slumber. I can imagine she'd like to see you."

Soul did not answer, with more than a mere nod, then slink into the shadows of the floor, and be on his way, back to Deltrot.

"When are you planning to tell him?"

"When he returns, I will find time for us to speak of it."

"Hmph. Good. I tire of your endless delays on this. Time will not be on your side forever, Macabre."

"I have plenty for this, and more to come. Yet now, I need to prepare the chamber. Behave here, and don't harass my granddaughter too much, Alluria."

"I am educating her."

The two would exchange glances, and unless Magnolia had something to say, she'd leave right after.

"Troublesome family at times. Regardless, we have progress to make, Magnolia. Write your letters, and do so with grace. No descendant of mine will disgrace parchment, with scribbles befitting a diamond dog."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-02-27 at 6:43 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“We wouldn’t know much it worked unless Shrimp tries something, and even he might know something is different if he’s working with something more than just his sense of smell. I gotta say, Omen, you never cease to amaze… or confuse. Seeing this display, I think the cat from the bakery might have left an impression on you after it rubbed itself on your legs.”

“Do this enough times and Shrimp might start thinking you’ve become a cat.”

Shrimp heard the word cat, and perked his neck, looking around to see if one were near. Thankfully, that were not the case, so he eased up again after a dozen seconds or so.

He were a simple little thing still. Sights, smells, and general instinct, were what guided him most of the time, while he slowly started to learn more about the world around him. Omen rubbing herself on things, wouldn't make him think of a cat, as he knew she weren't one. She were just doing something, that he didn't know were normal or weird, yet she were still just Omen to him. His primary caretaker. He could see that, as well as smell it, despite Omen not smelling like much.

The most that would come from this, were him emulating her, and start to rub up against other creatures, the same way she and Munchkin did. As for if it even worked... Kind of? Seeing how she were rubbing up close to Rosa, Shrimp would be thinking he were perhaps not a danger. And the smell was soothing. Yet at the same time, it also made him jealous. He were the one who should be given this attention. So he were glaring some, though thankfully she stopped after doing this for only a little bit longer. Though then she'd take out her long tongue, and start to lick Rosa on the neck. He'd say something to this, but the look of defeat on his face, clearly spoke that he were just going to accept this.

On 2022-02-27 at 6:43 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Rosa? Can I have a word? Preferable somewhere private. This pain you’re carrying about your father. I’m… worried about this and how its eating at you. Would doing something about it help ease your pain? Visiting and just… saying things that need to be said?”

"I appreciate the gesture, but there's nothing that can be said, or done, that will make me feel good about my father. Because the best I could ever hope to do, were to get him out of my old country, and then ensure he had some good caretakers here. I cannot give him back the time where he were losing himself, and called out to me, scared and alone. All times, where I ignored his cries for me, and sat drinking, drowning my own sorrows over this. That selfishness, cost him the time with me that he desperately wanted, before he were slipping away. Time, and the comfort, of knowing I were there. And instead, he had to listen to how I hadn't visited, and just sit with what friends he had left at times, yet mostly alone. Thinking about what were happening...

When... When I finally sobered up and went there, it were far too late. He were gone almost constantly, and the staff... T-They told me how he had c-called out for me, and of all h-his cries..."

Rosa would break down crying at that point, and would need a few seconds before he could even speak further, without it being a blubbering mess of a sentence.

"I only thought of m-myself, and left my own f-father to suffer through t-this alone. There is n-nothing I can d-do to make up f-for that."

He had to stop talking at that point, and just stand there, sobbing silently, with his head held low.

The first one who'd be with him this time, would be Omen, who were almost sure she got this right, as she went over and embraced Rosa, in a stiff hug.

Regarding Rosa... This were a thing he thought of often, and mostly he could contain it. But speaking so much of it, and remembering things, such as what the staff had told him... He deserved every single, judgmental glare and word he had been given, if not more. It were unforgivable, and he could never make up for that again. And this time, the emotions had managed to get too overwhelming, and take him over.

This were also the reason he refused to take as much as a drop of alcohol again. It had been the substance he used, when he wanted to drown himself in his own, selfish pity. And he had lost everything, from his friends, to his father's last, lucid moments, because of it. He had chosen to drink, and he knew it was his own fault, not some temptation of a bottle. But he wouldn't accept going down that route again, no matter how hard things were, and how much easier it would be, to just give in.

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

 

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Leviathan didn't notice their sort of pride at all, as it were so normal to her. Few of the dragons she knew, were willing to admit fault, and even less so learn from them. The pride and view of *I am better, so I am right*, were pretty common in their kind, at least here in Equestria. Gave them a well deserved reputation for being arrogant. Which she weren't free of herself, even though she'd admit to not being perfect sometimes. There were lessons to learn from failure after all. It just wasn't easy to swallow that fact.

As for the response, regarding potential troublemakers, Leviathan would give a pleased nod. It were good to hear that for once, they seemed able to just hunt, and eat, without troublesome interruptions.

"It's good to hear that we can go ten minutes, without some oddity approaching us, Might be this odd day can be salvaged af6ter all.

Charir here did well while you were away. Didn't need any help either, of course. Nothing wrong with his hunting instinct, that's for sure."

She took her own prey, more or less peeled off the fur - wasn't hard, long as you cut the *anchor points* of the fur - and ate her rabbit. Minus the head of course, which she'd cleanly sever, before burying it. And then shed work on eating the rest. She wouldn't keep this skin though. It wasn't worth much, and frankly, ponies seemed to get extra fidgety, when it came to rabbit fur. She didn't need the hassle.

After her quick meal, she'd bury the rest of the remains, as to get them out of the way. Which were mostly just bones, and the hide. She weren't that fuzzy of an eater, when it came to small creatures like this.

"So, the plan is going to see the bird's boss, tell her what went on, then take his paycheck, yes? What's the plan after that?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I think I've heard talk about a bat pony out there. Some kind of hermit, maybe? Rumors are... Yes, they tend to go a lot of places."

"I find myself surprised. The animals speak to me of several creatures, but they have yet to tell of another, whom are able to speak with them. Not one whom carries themselves, on leathery wings. I wonder why they have kept such a thing from me."

She were not insulted or anything. Had they cause to hide this truth from her, she would not be offended. She merely wondered why it were they would do that, when she had never done anything, to indicate she wished to harm others. Did they still not trust her? Or did he make those he spoke with, promise not to tell? Perhaps he had reason for wanting to keep her at bay, for the time being? She knew not, but she would ask when she returned to her glade, eventually. Mayhap there would be answers to find, and she could send a message of peace to him, via the animals.

A task for another time, yet one she'd like to pursue, when the time were right. It would please her greatly, to speak with more, who knew the language of nature. Albeit in another form, than what she had expected.

"Perhaps you can someday, show me where you met him? Speaking of meeting, I can't help but notice it appears you have one, who wishes to meet with you, my friend."

Lyriel would point towards the entrance to the house proper, where a mare with glasses, and an odd dress, seemingly put together by stitching various amounts of cloth into one, stood and tapped on the door.  A sight which drew in the gaze of Honey, who'd correct his glasses as seemingly a reflex.

"Ah, yes. My colleague from the orphanage. I should... Yes. Please excuse me, and have a nice day."

With that, he'd give an apologetic look to the two of them, and wander into the house, so that he could go and answer the door.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"As a desert dweller, I found this fuzz to be an irritating addition. Something which were bound to merely make the heat unbearable. I have found that it does not add heat in that way, so it makes little to no difference. Besides that in appearance, that as you say, make me less threatening. Yet as I can still change shapes. Hence that can be remedied, to some extend.

As for us changing as drastically as you see now, you may as well know that even to changeling kind, this is considered a disturbing turn of events. Most of the regular ones, do not only refuse to acknowledge that those that wanders, the path of the *redeemed* changelings, are still kin. They are openly hostile. I too, were among those, and gave my vocal support, to handle this issue, before it spread. An irony, which is not lost upon me. Yet when offered what is a better alternative, when the fact were laid out before me, a choice needed to be made. One the Council of Queens will not be further pleased to hear about, but neither were they, when Thorax send words to them. Even for our kind, change can be hard to embrace."

She'd stop briefly then, as a faint glow were seen on her horn. She had picked up some less than stellar thoughts, that she hadn't the faintest interest in seeing go further than they had. Weren't far from thought to action sometimes, and the things she had picked up on, were not something that would do her well, if it went to action.

"As I were coming towards, adaption is vital, and this too, will be something I will come to accept.

Regarding what you say of kobolds, it sounds as if you have regional adaptability then, yes? Not a lot of higher sentience beings I hear that have that. I wonder how vast changes can then be, between a flock of kobolds, depending on the region."

Edited February 28, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

 

@Blitz Boom

 

The madness within the graveyard accepts Cali as it's new residence.

" I finally saved you from your curse Light... May your path in life be bright..."

Cali laughs as she descends.

" See that? I can break fates!"

But her descent stops. She felt a hug of another that won't let go.

"Why? You'll die here!?" Cali cries.

 

 

 

Meanwhile...

Light saw the heroic action of the Draconicous. He soon tries to follow and save Cali, but was stopped by shark.

And was scolded by her.

" Shark thank you... But Cali is Friend too...hehe I know she's a very contradicting friend... But friend none the less. And I wanna do what you do with friends this time, help and save." 

[Rising Dusk 27,537]

@Blitz Boom

Dawn stepped into her walk in closet.  The subtle change of atmosphere from the longhouse they were just in.  Aromas of clean cloths, the different warmth of spring weather replacing that provided by braziers or a fireplace.  A flick of her horn cast a small rainbow orb into the ceiling.  The orb shimmered through all the colors available to the world.  The cottage let free the sleepy yawn of old wood awakening.   "My brother says I have a problem," the mare chuckled.  The orb settled on a pale rolling of greens and browns.  Coming to life, the long snake of cloths racks slowly rolled outfits into motion.  Like a long conveyor belt, outfits came long to the small amount of room in the entry way of the cottage for ease of standing.  Only stopping when an outfit that matched the parameters set by the orb above.

"And he might be right," Dawn admitted, but there was no sense of worry in her voice.  If this was a problem, it's one she gladly, openly accepts.  A green dress with gold trim and frills floated off the rack in front of her and hung in the air.  Dawn simply shook her head and the dress returned to the rack soon before it was set in motion again.  "A different kind of resource, but it is vast nonetheless.  I assure you they don't have closets like this though.  Equestria has a good deal of wealth in its own right," as she was sure Lily had witnessed in enough places with her short visit thus far.  Another dress came off the rack to present itself.  Brown with a white shawl.  Dawn rejected this dress with a shake of her head as well.  The rack continued its search.

"No, we do not leash other ponies.  Or other sentient creatures for that matter," Dawn smirked.  Nothing something she thought she'd be explaining today.  Even if it was a joke she made at her mother's expense.  "Leashes are for pets.  We hardly live in a country where there are threats around any corner, and a general trust that one isn't going to wander off somewhere dangerous.  In more civilized society, the act of leashing a pony would fall into Pet-play.  A form of foreplay for a power trip to spice up one's love life," the mare explained, far less ashamed than she should really be.  But considering the kinds of circles she works in, she's not all that naïve to such things.  "My own personal amusement came from the kind of reaction I can get from my mother," not that she'd ever want to know even the smallest detail of her parent's love life.  "Call it rebellious flair," Dawn acted out, lifting her hoof to hold in the air for dramatic emphasis.

The rack stopped again and another dress presented itself.  Another brown dress, although decorated in fine green leafy patterns, a silver belt in the design of wrapped vines.  A low cut collar, form fitting and wouldn't fall long enough down her legs to catch on much.  "How about this one?" the mare inquired.

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-02-28 at 5:13 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I appreciate the gesture, but there's nothing that can be said, or done, that will make me feel good about my father. Because the best I could ever hope to do, were to get him out of my old country, and then ensure he had some good caretakers here. I cannot give him back the time where he were losing himself, and called out to me, scared and alone. All times, where I ignored his cries for me, and sat drinking, drowning my own sorrows over this. That selfishness, cost him the time with me that he desperately wanted, before he were slipping away. Time, and the comfort, of knowing I were there. And instead, he had to listen to how I hadn't visited, and just sit with what friends he had left at times, yet mostly alone. Thinking about what were happening...

When... When I finally sobered up and went there, it were far too late. He were gone almost constantly, and the staff... T-They told me how he had c-called out for me, and of all h-his cries..."

Rosa would break down crying at that point, and would need a few seconds before he could even speak further, without it being a blubbering mess of a sentence.

"I only thought of m-myself, and left my own f-father to suffer through t-this alone. There is n-nothing I can d-do to make up f-for that."

“I’m not saying that your father’s state is all that will be of him. This pain… you carry it inside you, and it eventually it makes you start believing that it is what it is. You said his condition robs him of memories, but maybe there’s still something you could do. He may not remember, but you going there to let him know that you are with him now…”

“Maybe it’s naive of me to believe that things could turn out differently, but your father it still physically around. Your words could still count for something, even if it is just a short apology. I don’t know if what I’m saying now will help or make things worse. I… just thought I’d try to ease your pain.”

Sen may have started to blabber off into something more incomprehensible, but he still thought Rosa speaking with his father might be worth doing. Coming from the longma’s background, he didn’t get a chance to say goodbye to his own father. To him, any opportunity to part with some words was worth the time and effort. He’d stay silent, but the longma embraced the thestral in quiet contemplation. Perhaps there was nothing left to say, and Sen was deluded, but he had to try to ease his friend’s burden.

Lin walked up and joined the others, though she’d place a claw over her friend in solidarity. She didn’t have anything more to add, and unlike what she did with Sen, she was uneasy about talking to Rosa. Silence and moments spent alone in thoughts may be more appropriate now. With them just sitting there, they’d give their friend all the time he needs to think and process this moment.

The siblings would be there for him, but moving past this pain was Rosa’s choice to make. They wouldn’t interfere in something this sensitive, just as they learned that moving on from their own sorrows was a decision only meant for them. 

[Plum Blossom]

@Blitz Boom 

"The audacity!" Plum Blossom gasped, pretending to be offended about what she heard about the snotty foals in Canterlot. "Hmm, I'm not sure if they have jelly filled cupcakes, but if anypony would know, it would be Pinkie Pie. Let's go there then," she said, leading the way.

There was quite the line at Sugarcube Corner when they arrived, as always, and it appeared that Pinkie Pie was at the counter. When Plum Blossom got to the front of the line, she knew what she wanted. "Hi, I'll have a red velvet cupcake please. Thanks," she said as she put the bits required on the counter.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
"The plan was to get to do some more business with her, but it will be seen if that will happen without Marley, since he's her bodyguard." Ruby stated between eating "It seems our plans just don't succeed today, I'm also still sure we had something planned earlier too that we have forgotten, getting my things was not the main plan I believe." it probably wasn't super important since she forgot it like that, but she was still slightly annoyed to have forgotten it. "If there won't be business, then I'm out of ideas for now." 

When she and Charir both were eventually finished, which was around the same moment due to the prey-dragon ratio being similar enough, they buried what was left, which was mainly the hide and the bigger bones, smaller bones like vertebrae many times went with the meat half-accidentally. "One thing we need to decide is what we are going to do with Charir," she wasn't planning to chase him away, but he couldn't just follow her around until end of time, he had to learn to live here without someone needing to watch over him all the time. 

----------------------------
Scarecrow gave a little wave to Honey in case they wouldn't talk again in this time, and since there was only the two of them now, he returned to the topic of the batpony "Maybe animals haven't mentioned  the batpony because they don't think him as worth mentioning?" he suggested "What I mean is that, as stated, he communicates by imitating animals, both verbally and physically, and when you consider that batponies generally are a rare sight compared to other kinds of ponies, maybe the animals just see him as another animal? animal that just happens to look like a pony?" granted he had underestimated the intelligence of animal before, but to him it looked like a plausible theory, it could also be that Lyriel just hadn't met the specific animals that hang around the batpony's residence. "I can show you the place at some point though, it isn't too far from my cave actually." while again he didn't remember when he had seen the batpony last, he knew he was still around this time, as the other context in the meeting were such that he could narrow it down to being at most year or two ago, possibly lot less.

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

As Onache explained about the change being disturbing, she'd get a wordless response from all four lizards which was basically a kind of acknowledgement in lines of 'yeah, I can see that being the case.' even the kobolds, who were the definition of community, could see a sudden physical change like that causing a bit of an stir among their kind. "I did not know there's a Council of Queens, though, then again, pony nor dragon history doesn't really talk much about anyone but Chrysalis, and I don't know if average changeling would know about that." Sear stated out loud, though she said it to nobody in particular, Chega also seemed thoughtful about it, but didn't say anything. 

Onache using her horn got a curious look form the others, but since they all were now aware of her capabilities, and had some context about the creatures around them, they could guess what that was about, and didn't really want to bring it up out loud, as they didn't want to turn the tavern against her in case they didn't like the idea of someone being able to get into their heads. 

"I don't know the exact limits of that adaption, since studying it is hard due to our isolated way of living, something that all communities I know of share." as willing as they were to work together, different communities rarely came to contact with each other, and when they did, there usually was a language barrier that took time to solve, since living in isolation, the language of kobold communities many times evolved unaffected by other communities, though there was usually some common language that some individuals knew, since they also studied the surface languages.  

"But they can be quite drastic, I've met different kobolds during my time on the surface, some are bigger or smaller, some have thicker scales than others, some are more or less magical." "Three specific examples that come to mind are what I call the Ice kobolds, crystal kobolds and sea kobolds, the first one is a community that lives somewhere in the northern mountains, the biggest difference to us is that their scales form differently, helping them keep warm, it's almost like a fur, but scales, the crystal kobolds are very colorful, and their horns grow more similarly to crystals rather than smoothly like ours, they were very secretive, but they said they live in harmony with crystals and worship something they call 'the crystal dragon'." During the explanation, Sheska and Trox listened with interest, they hadn't seen or heard about these kind of kobolds before, but considering the places these kinds probably lived, it made sense why the Empires never found them. "Lastly, the sea kobolds, I actually sang about them when I noticed you, they are the most different I've seen up to this point, they have fins, webbed feet and hands, and lastly, but most importantly, the have gills, along their lungs, though latter is lot less effective, and they have special equipment and magic to allow them stay out of water longer.

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

On 2022-02-27 at 10:43 PM, Kujamih said:

"Why? You'll die here!?" Cali cries.

"Nnnnngh. So will you... Chaos, you're heavy. Don't go into the... Whatever."

It were not easy keeping hold, but it were seemingly working thus far. But they had to drag her out of there, and soon, before the portal would close, and she'd be stuck in that magicless crystal pit. They had to try and get her out of there, before that happened.

On 2022-02-27 at 10:43 PM, Kujamih said:

Light saw the heroic action of the Draconicous. He soon tries to follow and save Cali, but was stopped by shark.

And was scolded by her.

" Shark thank you... But Cali is Friend too...hehe I know she's a very contradicting friend... But friend none the less. And I wanna do what you do with friends this time, help and save." 

"...Then I help too."

She did not like this. Cali, were not what she'd consider a friend, as she had hurt Light. Why he wanted to save her, were honestly confusing to her. Seeing how he had directly been harmed by her, and she seemingly tried to toss him into the strange crystal space.

But if he wanted tos ave her, she'd help. Which right now, seemed like it might depend on going over to the vine that were grasping on to Cali, and pull in it. The more of them that did that, the better. Especially if Other-Anomaly had indeed jumped in, to grasp hold of Cali, rather than get a vine around her. In that case, they'd need to drag the both of them out of there.

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

 

@Starforce

If she thought of it a little, Magnolia may well realize that the mention of granddaughter, did not refer to her. Instead, it were in reference to Grave Robber, and how Alluria seemed to have her as more or less, a personal assistant of sorts. One whom seemed unable, or unwilling, to say no to whatever commandments, the long dead mare were giving her.

As for the parchment, Alluria took the invitation to watch, as her descendant wrote it. She focused on the writing style at first, just to see how it might look, but would soon instead focus on the words. A heartfelt message, from one sigbling to another, explaining things in as much detail, as one could expect, when it came down to a single parchment. Whatever details were not covered therein, she could well fill in, as they met.

Hopefully, she would have more luck with this, than Alluria had. She were not even certain, if Shinning Armor were getting her mail, or if some other guard, were perhaps throwing them away, as it seemed ludicrous to them. Either way, she were most displeased, and wished for better results than that, for Magnolia.

"Beautiful hoofwriting, and the message comes through thoughtfully, and clear. If this does not make him listen, I shall personally see that a messenger goes to the Crystal Kingdom, and drags him here. Which have been a plan of mine, if they continued to refuse answering. It is highly disrespectful, to not even send a response. They have much they can learn from you. Manners for one."

Of the three youngest generation, of her descendants - and the whole batch in general, that she knew of - Magnolia were certainly the most valued, by Alluria. She had manners, a dedication to family, and did not appear to think too highly of herself. Self confidence were a good thing of course, but there were a limit, which included refusing to even send a parchment, or an unseemly thing, like a letter, back to those who respectfully made contact.

"Roll it up, and tie the silk band around it. We shall put upon it, the seal when you have come so far, and then set course, for the owl yard."

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-02-28 at 9:08 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"My brother says I have a problem,"

"As a guest, I would use other words than that, though I agree with the sentiment. I see more clothes here, than you could feasibly wear with any regularity."

In her mind, one should have a few sets of clothes, for when you were washing them. Two sets for daily use, a fancy dress, and then perhaps something for rough weather, and that were it. Where she came from, Lily were used to just having one, and dealing with it, but she could see arguments for having multiples, like this. Perhaps one more, for winter periods, as it beat having to huddle around a fire. Yet this? This was excessive. Perhaps a result of what happened, when one had boundless wealth, and little in the way of reasons, to not make use of said wealth? Though she were sure, that Dawn could use it for better things than hoarding clothes, even then. She doubted most of this even got used.

On 2022-02-28 at 9:08 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"No, we do not leash other ponies.  Or other sentient creatures for that matter," Dawn smirked.  Nothing something she thought she'd be explaining today.  Even if it was a joke she made at her mother's expense.  "Leashes are for pets.  We hardly live in a country where there are threats around any corner, and a general trust that one isn't going to wander off somewhere dangerous.  In more civilized society, the act of leashing a pony would fall into Pet-play.  A form of foreplay for a power trip to spice up one's love life," the mare explained, far less ashamed than she should really be.  But considering the kinds of circles she works in, she's not all that naïve to such things.  "My own personal amusement came from the kind of reaction I can get from my mother," not that she'd ever want to know even the smallest detail of her parent's love life.  "Call it rebellious flair," Dawn acted out, lifting her hoof to hold in the air for dramatic emphasis.

"If that is what you use leashes for, I can imagine there to be quite the looks, the first time you witness a leash seller. And might I add, Equestria is not as lighthearted anymore, as I thought before. You have your own darkness. Which I feel as if I were better of, not knowing about."

Now, Lily wasn't a prude per se. She had lived a long life, and had her adventures, one might say. Yet it seemed unfitting for the land of Equestria, to do such things. And especially with leashes. Though she supposed, it would make sense. With how calm things were, they'd have a lot more time on their hooves to try various things, for various reasons. This... Seemed plausible as one of them, yet she were having a hard time imagining how it might be done. Not that she were going to ask either. That seemed wildly inappropriate.

"I can see why now, your mother had a reaction, such as she did. She and your father have likely partaken in this *Pet-play*, and you mentioning it, must've been particularly embarrassing. At least I don't think there is much sense, in such a strong reaction, without some intimate details, with the subject matter.

But since I doubt you'd have interest in discussing the potential details of your parents... Escapades, perhaps now would be a good time to simply move on from the subject."

Gods knows that she would rather not discuss the details of her family members, in compromising situations like this, and Dawn didn't seem the type to indulge in it either.

On 2022-02-28 at 9:08 AM, Rising Dusk said:

The rack stopped again and another dress presented itself.  Another brown dress, although decorated in fine green leafy patterns, a silver belt in the design of wrapped vines.  A low cut collar, form fitting and wouldn't fall long enough down her legs to catch on much.  "How about this one?" the mare inquired.

Lily wouldn't answer at first, as she were taking a few rounds around the dress, and giving it a closer look, before making any hasty judgement. One never knew, if suddenly say, the back would make it grizzly to gaze upon. Yet after inspecting it a bit more, she did not see anything of the sort. Not a big surprise, seeing how fashionable, Dawn were. She would likely not tolerate something ugly, within her selection.

"It's beautiful. Functional, and stylish, in a way that I can respect. It would serve you well, for showing some modicum of respect, for Harrowmark, and what it is like. I hope you will believe me when I say, that there are two things which weighs heavily for our people. Faith, and respect. I would never ask you to embrace ou faiths, nor would any reasonable Harrowish citizen, but respect they'd wish to have both ways. Showing up in something, which is still far beyond what we have in fashion, yet shows you have clearly inquired about the culture you're visiting, will make for astrong first impression, in that department.

It were one more reason, why I were so harsh on your seamstress's creations. Most of them, would not show that, whereas what your brother will wear, shows understanding.

It is a pity, that I do not have a Harrowish crow to offer for your attire. It would suit it well. Perhaps there is a tame one to find, when we arrive. It seems very suitable. At least in my eyes, yet it doesn't really matter, unless you bring one of your own crows. Or are crows kept as pets, here in Equestria? In Harrowmark, we mostly have crows and cats. Creatures which have more function, than simply being there for the sake of companionship. I can imagine you'd have all kinds of exotic things to pick from, in what I am going to assume are a large country?"

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

 

@EQ_Theta

Their words touched him, but Rosa did not feel he had the strength in that moment, to reiterate, that he could not even get his father away from his old home, at this point in time. And even if he then could that, how could he feel good about it, when he gazed upon the mostly lost shell of a stallion, he had looked up to all of his life, and remember how in his hour of need, he had been left alone, in the home? How could he ever be forgiven for that?

All of them gathering up in an embrace, made his tears flow thicker, but it was good. They helped give him comfort, in this moment, where the shell had cracked, and should help him gain his footing again soon. He just... Needed a few more seconds of this. Just a little more time, and he'd be fine...

Shrimp too, would join them. Normally he wouldn't, but seeing how all his caretakers were embracing Rosa, and how even he, understood that the stallion were sad, he'd slither from Omen's mane, into his, and embrace his scalp, as best he could.

"Tender words, to soothe a broken heart. Fortune smiling, against sorrow deep."

The half-way growling, yet somehow indifferent voice, came out of nowhere. There had been no sound of a door opening, no steps upon the wooden floor, or creaking stairs- Nothing. At least not for Rosa, and Omen. The latter of whom would turn her head though, as she began to smell the familiar presence, of the quadruped, that were calmly, and silently, wandering into sight.

He were the size of a regular pony, and wore a thick, brown robe, covering most of his bodies. The hood hung deep, casting dark shadows over the face, and making it impossible to see who, or even what, this one were. Were the voice before not masculine in nature, one couldn't even tell if this were a male, or female.

A tongue though, would slither out, and briefly be in vision. A reptillian one, which seemed unfitting, with the fact that one could see his paws. Striped and meaty, like that of a tiger, poking out from beneath the sleeves of his robes.

"...Stranger."

"You remember? Then halt your craft, til my work is done. Delivering words, which must be said, of things undone, and remade."

He'd look up, and though the face were still covered by the hood, but the two serpentine, glowing yellow eyes, would be visible, as they looked them over, one by one.

Were one of them try to attack him, they'd find they'd be repelled by a barrier of sorts. A magical trinket, originating somewhere around his chest area, beneath the robes.

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

 

@Ocean Wavedream

On 2022-03-03 at 12:35 AM, Plum Blossom said:

"The audacity!" Plum Blossom gasped, pretending to be offended about what she heard about the snotty foals in Canterlot. "Hmm, I'm not sure if they have jelly filled cupcakes, but if anypony would know, it would be Pinkie Pie. Let's go there then," she said, leading the way.

Jelly giggled, as she saw the impression of the snooty foals. A lot of them in Canterlot, that wasn't high brow like them, made fun of them. Their parents didn't like it, but like her father had pointed out, to the one who came around to complain to him, their colt should not have mocked her first then. Then the noble began to get offended, which just made Stargazer coldly, and calmly respond, that they had plenty of empty cells ready, for those causing a public disturbance.

The nobles did not like him for many reasons, but his utter lack of want to bow and scrape for them, were definitely one of them. And as he were law enforcement, they couldn't just start to cause a scene, as he'd have the authority to deal with it then. Which yes, he'd likely get a reprimand for, since it'd be against a noble, but he could care less about a write up like that.

On 2022-03-03 at 12:35 AM, Plum Blossom said:

There was quite the line at Sugarcube Corner when they arrived, as always, and it appeared that Pinkie Pie was at the counter. When Plum Blossom got to the front of the line, she knew what she wanted. "Hi, I'll have a red velvet cupcake please. Thanks," she said as she put the bits required on the counter.

Wouldn't be more than a few seconds then, until it were Jelly's turn then, and she'd ask if they had jelly filled muffins. Or maybe jelly doughnuts. Caramel-filled stuff were fine too. Just something with a nice, gooey center. If they didn't, she'd try a lemon cupcake, and pull the required bits out from one of the pockets in her belt.

Stargazer always told her to be prepared. As did his ex wife, and they both did theirs to make sure, that Jelly would be ready for various things. Which for example, also meant that she were raised to know to keep some of her allowance, in her belt, just in case she'd need some bits for something, at some point. Was more meant for like, a bus ticket, or a map. Maybe something to drink, stuff that were essential, but she still had a fair bit of allowance, so she could refill when it were. And this were important too. It were bonding, and she could use some friends.

Regardless of what she'd get, she'd follow Plum to where they were seated/stood afterwards. or if they were headed outside too, which were fine too.

"Mommy took me to Sweet N' Rolls in Canterlot, every Sunday, to get morning bread. This place is a lot smaller, but it looked nice. Smelled really good too."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-03-06 at 12:00 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"The plan was to get to do some more business with her, but it will be seen if that will happen without Marley, since he's her bodyguard." Ruby stated between eating "It seems our plans just don't succeed today, I'm also still sure we had something planned earlier too that we have forgotten, getting my things was not the main plan I believe." it probably wasn't super important since she forgot it like that, but she was still slightly annoyed to have forgotten it. "If there won't be business, then I'm out of ideas for now." 

"Not much of a businessmare, if she can't make do without her meat shield. Though I guess she'll have to ease up on things, until she finds a new one. Ponies are some frail little things, most of the time. But I guess we'll see."

As she had no interactions with Marley's boss, she didn't have a clue how to evaluate that pony, beyond just going with the baseline idea, of how a regular one would be. This one might be crazy though, or have powerful magic. Maybe she were daft, and tended to make a lot of enemies, through her words, and needed someone to stand and take the brunt of what went her way. It was hard to say, so for now, she'd just kinda guess on the whole the subject, and wait to see for herself, before judging too much. Might be she'd end up pleasantly surprised.

In any way, if that didn't pan out, they had to go find something else to do. She might have a few ideas, but overall, it would depend on what the others might like to do.

On 2022-03-06 at 12:00 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

When she and Charir both were eventually finished, which was around the same moment due to the prey-dragon ratio being similar enough, they buried what was left, which was mainly the hide and the bigger bones, smaller bones like vertebrae many times went with the meat half-accidentally. "One thing we need to decide is what we are going to do with Charir," she wasn't planning to chase him away, but he couldn't just follow her around until end of time, he had to learn to live here without someone needing to watch over him all the time. 

"In time, he'll find his place, but he's gonna need some preparation before that can happen. Most importantly, he's gonna need to be able to learn to speak Common Tongue. He's not going to get far, without being able to understand others. After that, it's up to him what he wants. If he wants to stay in Equestria, I'll teach him how to make it here, one way or another. If he wants to go home, I'll try to convince him otherwise, but if he insists, I'll teach him how to harness his magic the best he can, so he can at least fight back properly.

I know it might not be seen as the right way to do things, but honor means nothing, if you're dead. I'd rather cheat and live, than be dead and respectful."

She honestly did not like the idea, of him leaving to go back where he came from. It were dangerous, and frankly not a good place, for just about anyone. He should have a better life, and he could have that here, if he were willing to acclimate somewhat. With step one of course, being not to eat/burn ponies, and step two, being not to raze cities. Frankly if he could get those two down, he'd have a fair bit of leeway, depending on the situation.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Perhaps you are right. He may be acting too much like one of them, to make them think of him, as merely a winged pony. Though I can't help but think, that there may be other reasons... I suppose, there is little to be done, other than to wait and see. When the day comes, that you think it best to show me this pony's domicile, I shall gladly accept.

Til such a time though, it seems time for us to move along. Might I suggest perhaps visiting the forest, if at least for a brief time, to allow Crow to move around? He have done well in staying with you, but I can imagine, some time to stretch, may do him well? What think you, Crow?"

He'd let out a low coo, and nod, whilst shaking one foot at a time. He had done well thus far, and while he did not technically have muscle cramps, due to not having muscles, he'd still like to be able to soar a little too. Which sadly couldn't happen in town, as Scarecrow would cause a riot then, but he could likely fly over it. Long as he didn't get too close, most probably wouldn't know any better.

Scarecrow would feel it in the connection too, that Crow agreed with the idea, though he could wait some still. He were not in a hurry per se. Though he would like a pause for himself, when there were time. Just a bit, and then they could go back to scouring Ponyville. It was a big city after all, all things considered. Still plenty to gaze upon here, that they had not.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-03-06 at 12:00 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

As Onache explained about the change being disturbing, she'd get a wordless response from all four lizards which was basically a kind of acknowledgement in lines of 'yeah, I can see that being the case.' even the kobolds, who were the definition of community, could see a sudden physical change like that causing a bit of an stir among their kind. "I did not know there's a Council of Queens, though, then again, pony nor dragon history doesn't really talk much about anyone but Chrysalis, and I don't know if average changeling would know about that." Sear stated out loud, though she said it to nobody in particular, Chega also seemed thoughtful about it, but didn't say anything. 

"The council deals with various issues, that affects our kind as a whole. Which there are few of, so mostly it comes into affect, to ensure there is no territory disputes. Invading the territory of others, are considered a grave offense, if done so without proper reason, and will be punished as such too. Unless you are able to convince others, that your goal is fruitful, or are too strong to fight against. Chrysalis were a fool who had others convinced, that they could take over Equestria, and harness a boundless, infinite source of love from there. Not enough for others to openly support her, but enough for there to be no clear verdict on what to do, as she grew her hive beyond capacity, and yet kept pushing.

To think that even with everything presented on a silver platter, and power beyond what most would get, she still failed... There are reasons, why word have long been, to not overextend upon Equestrian grounds. Fairytales I long thought, but there is undeniably power here. Some which can be seized, but most which are better left unstirred."

She would not deny, that she once considered taking a careful step into Equestria, to see what might be possible to get for her own hive. Yet the stories and warnings, had not done the country justice. it were dangerous to try and seize it, as Chrysalis so well showed. Though in honest, had another queen been in charge, whom were smarter, the coup may well have succeeded.

Had she had the same options, she for one could see an easier way to deal with several things. For one, not just keep an alicorn, and Celestia's favored student, trapped in some mine. It held far more promise to either have them cocooned and drained, or just flat out have them exterminated first, so that they could not come and interfere. Poisoning Celestia's treats may well have been a good thing too, just in case. Nothing too serious, as her power would be valuable to examine, and potentially harness, but some kind of sedative at least.

But one could always ponder the failures of the past. It were done, and she had no desire to try the same stunt, that Chrysalis had done. Quite frankly, she wouldn't have, even then, as Chrysalis had been a mockery of a queen, to get to where she did in the first place. She had more respect for her changelings than this.

On 2022-03-06 at 12:00 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"But they can be quite drastic, I've met different kobolds during my time on the surface, some are bigger or smaller, some have thicker scales than others, some are more or less magical." "Three specific examples that come to mind are what I call the Ice kobolds, crystal kobolds and sea kobolds, the first one is a community that lives somewhere in the northern mountains, the biggest difference to us is that their scales form differently, helping them keep warm, it's almost like a fur, but scales, the crystal kobolds are very colorful, and their horns grow more similarly to crystals rather than smoothly like ours, they were very secretive, but they said they live in harmony with crystals and worship something they call 'the crystal dragon'." During the explanation, Sheska and Trox listened with interest, they hadn't seen or heard about these kind of kobolds before, but considering the places these kinds probably lived, it made sense why the Empires never found them. "Lastly, the sea kobolds, I actually sang about them when I noticed you, they are the most different I've seen up to this point, they have fins, webbed feet and hands, and lastly, but most importantly, the have gills, along their lungs, though latter is lot less effective, and they have special equipment and magic to allow them stay out of water longer.

"The variations are that severe? I had expected minor things, such as more keen senses perhaps, or certain small things, which could help some, in the environment they lived in. What you speak of, are quite a bit more substantial. A fascinating prospect. Makes me think that your kin could conceivably live anywhere. Quite a useful trait, in a world that could suddenly turn itself upside down, with all the magic that flows through it, and the things that wanders it. Not everyone have that somewhat calming thought, of their kind being able to still persist, somewhere, rather than be utterly exterminated.

As for your varied kin... I doubt I would ever meet those in the frozen north. Yet those in the water, I might. Deserts being my choice of habitation, I prefer dealing with water, rather than cold. It might be an interesting thing one day, to go seek out your water-residing brethren, and hear more of how things are for them. Considering the amount of predators in the sea, I can imagine things are not always that delightful.

...They do not have a working relationship with the sirens, far as you are aware, do they? Rare is it I have heard any getting along with them, but there are always exceptions, and I'd prefer to stay far from them, if so. They and changelings, do not get along well, to put it mildly. To put it bluntly, it comes down to us going for the same prey, yet wishing different things from them, in a way that does not commute. Even hatred-affiliated hives, does not like them. Except for Queen Persephone, but if she still lives, I doubt she is less mad, than last she were spotted."

Edited March 9, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Cali would then hug Anomaly warmly.

" Thank you..." 

Light would then head over to pull the vine with the help of others.

Even without the shards, he was still an able Earth pony. Losing the shards actually made him more quick, nimble and strong. Only thing now is he has no more magic, which the portal that absorbs magic dosnt affect him anymore.

"Cali!! Hold on!!" Light shouted.

(Waiting for outcome.)

 

[GingerLightning 258]

@Blitz Boom

"Did you really just threaten me?" Howl asked, shockingly calm. He seemed mildly amused even. He let out a small chuckle quietly.

"What did you tell them, munchkin?"  he walked over and ruffled Ginger's mane.

"I told them about what you did to my bullies. I did tell them not to mess with you. " she said simply.

"geez... sorry about that. I was a bit over protective of my little sister back then. I'm sure you understand." He apologized to Queen Cheshire, bowing a little.

 

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

“Whatever you may think of our words, Rosa, know that we aren’t pushing to do something you don’t want to do. We just don’t like the idea of you carrying all of this burden on yourself.”

“We’ll be here if you need us. All you need to do is ask.”

The siblings stayed as they are, and their offer would be upheld so long as their friend needed them. Right now, this is where they should be, and they’d give their friend the time he needed to process. Is it any wonder how grief takes hold and consumes, but Sen and Lin recalled their mother’s fate… it wasn’t a good way to go. If they could save their friend from that, then they’d do whatever it takes. Now even the siblings wonder if they are beholden to some curse, that misfortune would follow them and befall those they care about. 

On 2022-03-09 at 6:20 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"...Stranger."

"You remember? Then halt your craft, til my work is done. Delivering words, which must be said, of things undone, and remade."

Emotions were running high, but the sound of an unknown voice came from the same room they occupied. Sen turned to see who else was with them shortly after Omen alerted them to the strange presence. A robed creature with piercing eyes and a forked tongue watched them, yet made no sound. It was unclear what this creature was, but neither Sen nor Lin were up for speculating as they looked to the other occupant in the room. On impulse, Sen raised a wing before Lin, Rosa, and Omen, standing between them and this unknown creature while he stared it down.

“Who are you?” Lin questioned. “And how did you get in here?”

“Don’t try anything, stranger. If you’re here to talk, then let’s just talk.” 

Sen was just about ready to make a move, though he’d give this intruder a chance to speak. It wouldn’t be right to make a mess out of Rosa’s new home when they’ve just finished decorating. The property damage wouldn’t be a delightful sight if there wasn’t a way to pay for the clean up and replacement furniture. 

[Plum Blossom]

@Blitz Boom 

“Oh yeah, Pinkie Pie is well known through out Ponyville for her baked goods. My family often comes here and I started learning baking here as an apprentice too. Where should we go next? Here’s all kinds of interesting places in Ponyville,” Plum Blossom said as she ate her cupcake. 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

"I am purpose, without home. A stranger to a world, I have seen burn countless times."

The odd male would have his serpentine, glowing eyes, linger on Sen, more than the others. If but a few seconds.

"Dreaded summer, lingering blue. Beware the one, who weave the moonlight."

"You talked strange back then too. With Master Discord."

Suddenly, Rosa would tear himself from their grips, and charge at the robed figure aiming to strike him in the face. An action which only had him repelled by the barrier, yet not crash into a wall. Wind would blow unnaturally past them, and soften his descend backwards, causing neither him, nor the room, any harm. Though the toilet paper rolls were halfway everywhere. Not that the stranger focused on that. Just Rosa, as his eyes landed upon the thestral, who were tensing his muscles, and looking increasingly agitated.

"Do not try. I prepared for this, many moons past. You would only harm yourself, and you yet have purpose."

"What in Tartarus do you want here, Zhu? That's who you are, right? You look like the reports said."

The stranger did not answer, but would raise a paw, and pull back the hood, to show his head.

One could just about see his shoulders, which seemed feline in nature, and striped like a tiger. His neck and face though, were that of a serpent. Scales raised, and striped like the rest, yet there were no denying that this part at least, had semblance with a snake, far more than a feline.

Said neck were arched, and would add a little, yet not much, more height to him overall, than a regular stallion. There also seemed to be a flappable hood, like a cobra's, yet tucked in currently, as he tasted the air once more.

Judging by Rosa's response, or stomping into the floor, and looking uncertain what to do, he had some degree of confirmation, on who this were. Apparently, the infamous seer Zhu, who had once upon a time, left him a note, and now stood in front of them all. Probably not what any of them - beyond Rosa and Omen - had expected. They might notice how his eyes did not linger on any of them individually, at length. He would avert them towards other surfaces, and likely judge by smell taste and hearing, where they mostly stood.

"He is not here, so you failed to understand. I come bearing answers, to correct this, before you wander down paths unwanted. Though things have changed, balance must yet be my purpose, for what else is there?

As how I entered, a door unlocked, is open for guests."

Omen had forgot to lock the door, in essence. Something she hadn't thought about, as she poked about, and accidentally unlocked it, which left room for the serpanther to enter. And now he stood here, hopefully not ready eat them.

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

 

@Kujamih

Seeing how everyone else were chipping in, regular Anomaly shrugged, and would come over to help pull too. Though at a fair distance from the portal.

Inside the portal, there'd slowly be movement of the two trapped there, as the vines would begin to be pulled back, via combined effort. But Other Anomaly, wasn't doing fantastically. The magic were draining from her, and she were starting to feel pretty light headed. Still, she were okay with how things were. If you had to go, this was a good way, yeah? Least she'd be remembered for something good, and important. That was more purpose than a lot of others got.

Outside again then, the ground would tremble a little, as a large, monstrous creature got into view. Segmented eyes on top of it's face, looking down, and the odd boulder-like nubs on its face, rubbing together, making some sounds. The body had much the same way of standing as a gorilla, though larger, and the knuckles seemed to have bone plates covering them, adding protection, and a severe punch potential, if the muscular creature cared to do something.

Alongside it, would flutter a pixie, with dark red eyes, wearing a dress made of various, stitched together animal hides. She appeared to have razor-sharp teeth, like Shark did, and looked them over curiously. She did not have a chance before, real Anomaly talked to them though.

"Kids! Oh, perfect timing. Henry, come over, and help mommy drag the crazies out of that place. Don't get too close, Rose."

Henry - as it seemed the large one were called - would nod, then take all the vines in his meaty hands, and pull back hard.

The slow drag would be replaced by the two of them rapidly getting yoinked out, and thrown over the trees. The vines would break as they came along, meaning there were no longer anything holding them back, from flying off.

Now, good news, were that they'd be headed to a place, were regular Anomaly were prepared to catch them. Bad news, were that it would be via giant sunflower, who'd catch them, stuff them into the center of it's flower, and then have them slide down it's sticky insides, to the bottom. There, a hatch would open, that'd let them slide out, covered in plant juice, and likely not feeling fantastically. Wasn't really an experience that should make one feel awesome, at least.

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

 

@GingerLightning

"Hehe. Nah, I'm just messing with you. I'm sorry, but you're just so fun to tease. No offense meant, friend.

Aaah. Seriously though, don't fight in here. We're a pacifist hive, and I'd ask you to kindly respect that. It also leaves a bad impression on the locals, if they see us fighting, or being aggressive in any way, and it's still the early days, og f changeling acceptance. We have to step careful, and show them they've got nothing to fear. At least not from my hive. We might be small, and the council scoff at us, but we'll make an impact in this new age. Mark my word.

And yeah, I get being protective. The things I've done against those, who'd hunt my kids. Nothing violent, but I'm sure they'd have preferred that, hehe.

Anyway, you must've had a long trip, huh? Can we offer you any refreshments? Maybe some emotion jelly? We mostly have joy, but there's a few others in stock. We like to keep a surplus, in case we find some hungry hiveless, or another hive is having a hard time, and need some to get by. Family or not, we like to watch out for our kin. Especially those that are down on their luck."

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

 

@Ocean Wavedream

"Oooh, you're an apprentice baker? That's cool.

Back in Canterlot, not a lot wanted to be bakers, or plumbs and stuff, but daddy says it's important that we have workers doing all kinds of stuff, and that we should show them all respect. Bakers help get early ponies their breakfast, so they get a happier day. That's important.

Bat ponies have their own bakers too, did you know that? The one daddy took me to meet, makes these really good muffins, with some sort of jelly, and caramelized crickets in them. They were so good."

Bat ponies - or thestrals, if they were full blood, and pedantic about it - tended to need some bugs in their diet too, for biological reasons. Jelly weren't any different, though she didn't openly go around and just eat bugs around others. She understood they found it weird. But she did share critters with Gary sometimes. She preferred stuff that wasn't moving anymore though, whilst he preferred a hunt.

Standing around as they did now, she'd munch of her jelly doughnut, and look around, with her eyes eventually settling towards the appel farm in the distance.

"Can we go see the farm? I heard there's Apple ponies there, yes? I've never seen one before, but I hear they make the best apples anywhere."

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

 

@Starforce

On 2022-03-09 at 5:52 AM, Magnolia said:

"Yes, they would be wise to answer these letters. Even if the replies aren't the most fruitful - simple acknowledgement will go a long way for what they have done to me over the years. If you don't mind, I would like to write the other two letters." she spoke calmly. If Alluria accepted this response, Magnolia would go along with writing the letters. First up was her letter to Twilight Sparkle.

"I would never stand in your way. If anything, I would encourage it. It is high time that we make all see the truth before them. If they do not like what they see, that is their loss, yet I for one, shall not turn my back on family. I shall treasure, what they so recklessly dared to cast aside."

Alluria would run a spectral, yet firm hoof through Magnolia's mane, as she leaned in closer to the letter to her parents.

"In your situation, I cannot say I would have been so eloquent myself, with this particular letter. I can think of several harsh phrases, I would have liked to add myself.

Be advised, if they do show, it will be to tell excuses. I cannot believe they would want to be seen as the villains in this. If so, I ask that you kindly offer me a chance for a rebuttal beforehoof. I have no patience, nor respect, for those who abandon kin. It should not be done, unless something extraordinary happened. And even then, when reached out for, to ignore your words... Yes, I believe I will have some choice words to mull over."

She said nothing of it, but Magnolia might start to sense a certain pattern with Alluria, and how she viewed the concept of family, as sacred. Something to be treasured. With a certain special focus, on great ire, to those who toss their kind aside. One might wonder why that were, yet who knew, what either mare might think? As there were these three letters now to be sent, perhaps it would soley be on them, or something else entirely?

On 2022-03-09 at 5:52 AM, Magnolia said:

By the time she had written this letter it is likely Alluria would have read the other one. She'd hand Alluria this letter, wondering what she thinks of it. It was best to get these out of the way first and foremost.

Alluria at this stage, would have Grave Robber bring them the Macabre Clan's seal, and some wax, so they may do this correctly. The seal of their clan specifically? A skeletal hoof, holding a nearly burned down candle. A symbol that dated all the way back to their founder, Morticia Gloom, who said that this had always held a special meaning to her father, though he either knew not why, or would not tell it. Nothing beyond it being related, to the very origins of their ability.

After all were in order, Alluria would lead them on, to the Owl Yard, as it were called. A large building outside of this, where the sound of hoots were heard soundly, as they approached the door.

None would try and stop them from entering. A few even bowed to Alluria, or looked surprised, to see that she were outside, though they all allowed her the peace to do what she were doing currently. As she had been here longer than any of them had been alive, she had been part of their lives as long as they knew. As such, they treated her with the respect, that they would family. Most of the time.

As they entered the building, they'd witness a large area, with thick foliage, and an elaborately grown, dark-oaked tree, standing thick, with solid, gnarled branches, and several enticing *residencies*, placed into the foliage, to make it feel as natural and authentic as possible, for the birds.

The light shining from above here and there, that gave the building a rather dim lightning, perfect for the birds, showed that the roof were likely off. Likely intentionally.

"Hoot Handler? Are you present?"

"Of course, my lady, of course. How might I help, this fine day?"

An elderly stallion, in his likely seventies, would wander out from behind the tree, holding a now empty satchel. He looked at them with warm, kind eyes, hidden behind his thick, bronze-rimmed glasses, and showed a great big smile on his wrinkly face. Here in front of them, stood the yellowing persona, of a stallion, who had lived a good life, and felt right at home with it. Not all who could claim to be that fortunate.

"I would present to you, my descendant, Moonlight Sparkle. She wishes to have three letters send, to members of her family. I hope that shall not be an issue?"

"Of course not, my lady. It's good to see that one of them finally responded, though I can't say I have heard of this one. A fine young mare though.

A pleasure to meet you, Miss Sparkle. My name s Hoot Handler. I care for the owls. Well, until I train my grandcolt to take over, in any case. Then looms retirement."

"We know both he is prepared. It is you who wish not to let go."

"Hehe. Perhaps. Ah, but let's not keep the young lady waiting, because we bicker along. Might I please have your letters, and hear where exactly they must go, Miss Sparkle? I shall find the best owls in the yard, to make sure they get there safely."

Edited March 10, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Light would run towards Cali, to check up on her.

But as he gets close, he would then slowly back away, to avoid getting near the gew they're in.

" Cali! Owww euww... Are you alright?" He asked.

" You should've left me there... We could've finally lifted the curse and killed Order..." She mumbled as she struggles to move around the plant juice.

Cali would look at the clone anomaly and would try to hug her... But black shards starts to slowly creep out from her body.

"Ughh... It seems I can't control this power of yours yet Light... I have to avoid magical creatures for the time being..." Cali would radiate magic absorbing force within her body. But only changeling magic and non magical creatures can safely go near Cali right now.

" Why didn't you tell me that this was your plan all along!? I thought you went mental again... I can't handle that anymore..." Light angrily said while feeling sad.

" Would you've agreed to what I did? Apparently not... And besides let me do something for you once in a while..."

" But the Shards..."

" Give me sometime.... I can control it no problem... Unlike you hehehe."

Light and Cali, who is still weak and light headed, would bow down and thank everyone for helping and saving them.