open Casual stroll

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Cali would reply to Anomaly disappointingly.

"You need to grow up... Learn to love your creation, call them your own. Maybe then you might learn the true beauty of you powers and not be careless.... Just as Discord has... You don't want to be out done by him if I recall..."

It seems Cali knew stuff that she shouldn't have been able to, which was quite weird.

 

Meanwhile

Light would diligently learn Sharks way and Blush and try not to be awkward when it came to pups making.

" I guess it's my turn to teach you some pony culture then... We, that includes you too, use hugs and kisses to show affection to the ones we love."

Light would slowly show Shark how a hug would be done. Usually sharks are cold blooded creatures, but to Light, she is his warmth.

The kissing part was a bit hard for light as he would be shy about it. But if he would turn down this, he might and up showing to shark that he doesn't truly love Shark. So he mustered up his courage and gave her a gentle kiss.

 " Ahmm that's how we show love..." Then Light remembered that shark is not really the brightest creature out there so he would try to correct himself.

" You only do this to your mate and your pups okay shark? I would be extremely be jealous if you do it with somepony else. Ahmm."

" But I think we need to go to a school to learn even more and properly. I'll go ask Anomaly for assistance."

(If no further intrusion or major event would occur)

Light would heed aid towards Anomaly to help them get into a school.

 

[Widdershins 9,959]

@Blitz Boom & @Sekel

 "Please. I would never pick a fight and comit a crime right in the middle of a populated pony town and risk being captured." Kaltrop proudly, yet oddly enunciated in a way that a guard like Benny might catch onto for its implication that the slenderer dragon might have indeed been guilty of a few misdemeanors. "Not that I think that is of any concern. I don't think pony do Mind.

 You're a capable fire dragon, Beany. I think you know well enough that any other dragon could see you were capable of a fight and that alone would merit a fuss were you to blunder into some other dragon's territory munching on candy like a foal. You're... what, twice the muscle of any pony that lives here, long talons with a volcano burning inside you and that's not enough to get you shooed out of town? I'm sure sudden jets of a lightshow are the least of concern to this country town."

Besides. Anyway. As you stated.
I fly. I prefer my time alone. I do. The very notion of "cooperation" is silly to a dragon of high standing dragon status such as I.

 I fail to see how I could offer anything w-worth the t-time of working alongside anypony else." Kaltrop stammered his indecision, letting slip the pony phrase he clearly usually made a point of avoiding. While it was true the younger drakling talked much about dragon ways, the elitist way he talked spoke more of the passive-aggressive way alot of ponies bullied, as if they knew they had nothing but status as a weapon.

 

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

(and also Cover-Up's section)

"Oh i'm sure there's LOAADS zombponies! No one's ever thought twice about it! Kirins sure don't have a concept about it far as I know! You worry too much, Little Guy!" Whett Kindle gave Cover Up a consipratorial friendly boop before they set off.

The Kirin had skipped after the artist horse with alot more energy then the one leading, and with notably less focus. While larger, his head had whipped around and noticed alot of things sometimes accompanied with nonsensical small talk from descriptions of the School of Friendship and buildings they passed to small flowers on the side of the path, all of which seemed a peppering of questions that both ponies could easily see the answer to. 

 When they had been greeted by the passing farm stallion, Whett had given an inelegant, but peppy hop into facing them and greeting them with the amount of cheeriness in volume that one would inclined to flinch and contemplate the science behind how much sound it took to cause window pane glass to shatter.
"HI THERE!!

Actually, it's Kirin!~ We're magical n' stuff!"

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-03-26 at 6:04 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"If there is a price to pay, it shall be by me, and me alone. I will hear none of ideals of sacrifice from your part, for this cause. If there is a price to be made, I shall pay so myself, in full. You are my friends, and I treasure you. More than you may realize. And I will toss you from the forest myself, rather than allow any of you to fall prey, to whatever antics that creature may have. Fruitless as I know it is, since I cannot physically hide from her."

“I’m not sure if we could stop ourselves from making rash decisions if it means you’d find peace. Let’s hope it won’t have to come to that, but we’ll still throw up some gates to make sure you aren’t getting hurt. If something goes sideways, we’ll be ready.”

“I… we wouldn’t know what to make of other draconequi. The only one we’ve met so far is Discord, and he seems to be different enough from how to stories depict him. Chaotic as he may be, he seems to have found some positive influences. Not sure same could be said about others of his kind, but I’m not holding my breath.”

Discord has proven himself in more than one occasion, and the siblings could count him as a friend. That much is especially true for Lin, which could cause issues with the folks back home if word ever got out. Keeping it to themselves was simple enough, as it wasn’t a topic anyone would just blurt right out of nowhere. The more pressing concern was what the one they’ll meet would do to Rosa. If this will be true for the deal, then it will likely be something important.

As for the immediate future, they’d have a little bit of time to keep their thoughts on what comes next quiet. Maybe things could be a little more jovial until then. 

On 2022-03-26 at 6:04 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Yet that is for later. If we try and focus on Uddo, then pray tell, is there something you think we should bring? I am not aware, if it is customary for longma, to bring something to the meal, or the hosts in general."

“You don’t need to worry about being prepared for the meal. The hosts would be the ones to prepare for the guests, though I’m unsure if that may hold true for ponies. He’s been away from the forest for so long, he may not continue the practice anymore.”

“I suppose there’s also something else to consider. He offered and invited us earlier today, and he may not have a lot prepared on such short notice. I suppose it won’t hurt to bring some food to make sure he doesn’t run his supplies dry. Some vegetables or plants might suffice.”

In truth, the longma left the preparations for guests to themselves, as visitors shouldn’t have any burdens placed on them. It could be the same for ponies or others living in Equestria, but the siblings didn’t know about their customs. Uddo will likely know more about how the locals did things, and he’d do that enough times to get used to it. Fish and plants were par for the course for longma diets, but with a taboo on ingesting animals, vegetables were about the closest thing they could consider bringing, unless one also included deserts. That latter option wouldn’t be so bad either, and it may break up the monotony of having too many greens for a meal.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby didn't offer to pull the cart, but not because dignity, she didn't see it as degrading in any way, quite the opposite actually, having lived a life like she had, she preferred to do physical labor, like everything else, herself, and in her eyes those who needed someone else to do such things were weak and pathetic, though there was a difference between a need and convenience of course. The reason she didn't was more for sake of her act, since she knew that a pony like what she pretended to be would not pull the cart herself until absolutely necessary, and Leviathan was supposed to be her employee, though it was slightly odd to her that generally bodyguards also did things like that, since that slowed down the speed the guard could react in case they are needed. 

Charir didn't climb on the wagon this time, as he had gotten enough rest to the point that he wanted to use his own legs, though he did stay close to Leviathan, keeping her between himself and Ruby.

"I have a hunch on who that may be." Ruby stated coldly as she looked at the picture of the mare "Didn't personally know her, but Spicy and Marley told a little about the mother of the casino's owner, and I'd say the....demeanor in the picture matches the image I got of her." "If I'm right, this is more a celebration than mourning period for most, though the owner himself may be upset, seemed like the kind of individual to have the false believe that just because someone is same blood as you, you need to support them." obviously Ruby didn't support this believe, wanting to have her own mother's separated head in her claws some day. 

After telling this to Leviathan, and possibly leaving the wagon somewhere if there was clear system for that, she approached the nearest staff member and asked "Who would I ask about the whereabouts of specific guest?"  and if it wasn't made clear at this point by signs or something else, she would also ask what she should do with a cart that she was bringing to somepony staying at the casino, after which she would approach the individual she was instructed to, and if it was another staff member, she'd ask in what room was Spicy staying, and that in case she wanted to know who's asking, Ruby Shine was asking, and that she had an important message from Marley, and also her stuff. If however it was the owner himself she was pointed to, she would be more blunt. simply asking where Spicy was and that she had her stuff and a message for her ears only. 

Charir meanwhile was his curious self, though he stayed more obviously close to Leviathan, seeking security in this very much unfamiliar situation, it was pretty clear at this point which dragoness he liked more, though it wasn't entirely just because Ruby's similarities to their mother, it was also to small extend the opposite, because while Leviathan was quite small for a dragon as far as Charir was concerned, he could tell she was lot older than Ruby, so in relation to their lifespan, Ruby was a young adult at best, while Leviathan was closer to full adult, thus, instinctively, being only a kid himself, Leviathan became in a way his new mother figure, while Ruby was more like a big sister, even ignoring the fact that she most likely was literally his sister. 

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

Scarecrow didn't really know what to say to Leviathan's little story, so he just gave an empathetic nod/bow, the kind where, if he would have had eyelids, he would have closed his eyes. As usual he kinda just observed the even that unfolded around him, he didn't want to interfere in nature, even if it was a clash between an unnatural bird that happened to be his companion and arguably unnatural squirrel.

"No and yes." Scarecrow stated "It is true its actions are slightly concerning from point of view of normalcy and nature, but, and no offence to you Crow, for unnatural Everfree forest creature created by mad draconequus, I expected worse." "Though it should be mentioned...." he was now addressing crow "...as I am unable to form any kind of emotional connection, if you end up causing trouble, be it on purpose or not, that is worse than the benefits your companionship gives me, we may have to reconsider our relationship." "I do trust you, and considering your willingness to stay with me, I at least hope there is some kind of benefit you get from me too, so I wish not to break the partnership, but the truth is, I am uncaring, and ultimately have selfish wants like every thing that exists, and because the protection of innocent is the last thing left of the morality I once probably had, I am not willing to risk my potential to help for sake of disguise." he felt it was best to be honest, even if it would risk offending Crow enough for the separation to happen now, because even with that risk, he had endless time, and certainly, eventually, be it after several millennia, he could socialize without a disguise anyway, and while sure it would mean the game he had to go through was a waste, to him it was more an annoyance than anything, and as much as he wanted to, he couldn't really empathize with what Lyriel had to go through in it to truly care.  

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

"Solar Empire is a desert, and they have plenty of kobolds too, so we can adapt to that." Trox mentioned, not really expecting any kind of response, just pointing out. Chega thought for a second "It could be none of us have settled in a desert here, at least not in Equestria, since I doubt anyone would choose one specifically, and I don't see the kind of situation happening that would force us to do so, in Equestria that is, since outside Equestria there's bigger deserts where there could be less choice in the matter." this was again very analytical answer, as Chega thought about her past studies. 

"That's what makes the guard so annoying to deal with, they are predictably unpredictable, yet also unpredictably predictable." "They are blindly loyal to their superiors, and very blunt, if they want to kill you, they will tell it to your face as they are doing it." "So either he is truly loyal to Celestia, which would mean he's telling the truth, or he's still loyal to Daybreaker, and is lying to everyone." Chega listened with interest, getting bit more information about the other word, Daybreaker, that was an interesting name, she would need to ask about that when the time was better.

The group kinda expected Onache to lead the way, but after it became clear that wouldn't happen, they all started observing in their own way, first was Sheska and Trox, due to their background, they paid more attention to the creatures around them, was someone looking after someone else with wondering gaze? maybe someone looked annoyed that someone had pushed past them rudely? Comments about odd individuals, things like that, signs that someone who was more aggressive than the norm had gone past. Sear meanwhile, being skilled hunter among other things, was the one to notice the marks on the ground, though while finding the griffon marks slightly odd with the wider, she didn't think much of those, as griffons were generally heavier than ponies and left deeper marks, so she mainly focused the the ponymarks, since hoof marks that are different than the hundreds of other hoof marks usually implied something, there was also other reason she found that to be the more likely culprit, even if the griffon was the more obvious one if following stereotypes. Chega's way was bit more unique, as she climbed on Sear and stood on her shoulders, looking over the crowds in case she could spot something.

"Heavy pony hoof steps going towards the more quiet parts of town."  

 

 

[Rising Dusk 27,537]

@Blitz Boom

"If you were looking for something poetic, you'd likely find Rising saying he has the City.  You're wrong to think him alone.  His work is more than just toil.  The relationship he has with his coworkers is satisfying to him and on his beat, his patrol route, he is well loved by the community.  Reserved, quiet, wise and thoughtful, his expression is just... different.  Rising is rarely even at his apartment to brood and be secluded.  I have my parties and I love to date and explore, fleeting distractions.  Someday we'll both have our Special Someponies, when the time is right and the right pony is found," Dawn exhausted.  

"Feel free to introduce me to anypony you wish, who knows when the click will happen or what form that pony will take," she mused.  Dawn didn't share the fairy tale interest most mares had in dreams of find Prince Charming.  She wishes not to swoon over such royalty.  Much more ideal to her likely to be swooned over by somepony in such prestige.  A wonderfully amusing thought.

Ushering in through the newly opened door, the scent of clean fabrics was replaced with the scent of aged wood and apple cinnamon.  The pair walked in through the entryway of a homely town house in a cozy neighborhood of Manehatten.  The door closed on its own behind them.  Aged, polished hardwood floors met their hoofs that lead down a short hallway.  Coat racks lined on either side, one side containing an array of more fashionable coats and the other, a single dull well worn black coat for rainy and cold days.  Where the hallway ended, a large living room awaited.  Looking up revealed a skylight where natural light could bath the living room during the day.  A secondary hallway laid under a staircase that ran up and spiraled along the walls to landings on each of the second and third floors.  Three doors on each floor could been seen behind the polished wooden banisters, a total of six rooms.  One room on the third floor had double doors instead of a single door.

Two sofas sat in the center of the living room, facing either other with a coffee table between them.  Slight angled toward the large fireplace against another wall.  Flanking the fireplace, a pair of red leather arm chairs.  Aged and worn, still maintained to prevent damage, but they told a story of heavy use.  Beside one, an unorganized pile of newspapers.  The other chair, a neat pile of fashion, theater and home magazines.  To the final side of the living room, an apple wood dining room table with four chairs.  All sitting before a rustic kitchen with granite island.  Bronze oven and stove, sink and matching icebox.  Apple wood cabinets and pantry.  The pair had seen a portion of this kitchen not long ago in the mirror on Dawn's vanity

"Not as grand as my own, but there's always something special about where one grew up," Dawn relaxed as the presence and safety of her home for two decades washed over her.

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

On 2022-03-25 at 11:43 PM, Kujamih said:

"You need to grow up... Learn to love your creation, call them your own. Maybe then you might learn the true beauty of you powers and not be careless.... Just as Discord has... You don't want to be out done by him if I recall..."

"Pff, we're all outdone by Discord. He's the strongest of us. In chaos at least. I'm the best in evolution. He don't have a candle to me. Hehe, wall the things you see in this forest? Minor things, and gimmicks. My island is where all the fun stuff are.

And I'm not gonna change again. Evolution is a wild thing, yearning to be free. So I'm pushing it along a teensie bit. And sure sure, sometimes, a bit of bad happens, like Princess, or that time Rose eradicated my second island -"

"I said I was sorry!"

"- but y'know, problems have solutions. Like Shark. And just look at her. Finding a mate, and being ready to usher in a whole new kind of pony, potentially thousand of years in advance. How isn't that beautiful?

Y'know, unless she starts to eat pones, but I'm reeeeeally sure she have no interest in that. So long as she passes that on to her pups, it'll be fine. Heh, maybe you'll see someday, when you go shopping around for one of them, yeah? I mean, there's no active chaos magic rolling round in her, but a bit of lingering magic can do lots all of a sudden. Like Rose here, yeah? She have the last sliver of destructive magic I had left in me, and she's able to just utterly erase things from existence. Henry... I dunno, he's about a month old now, and still sorting things. He likes sitting in lava, so that's pretty cool.

Hehe, and speaking of not being responsible with your powers, what about you, Mrs. *interdimensional shapeshifter, playing dress-up with foals*? Doesn't sound like responsible use of your time either, eh? Eh? Come oooon. You know life's more than work too, right? Outta have fun, and just go with the flow."

On 2022-03-25 at 11:43 PM, Kujamih said:

" I guess it's my turn to teach you some pony culture then... We, that includes you too, use hugs and kisses to show affection to the ones we love."

Light would slowly show Shark how a hug would be done. Usually sharks are cold blooded creatures, but to Light, she is his warmth.

The kissing part was a bit hard for light as he would be shy about it. But if he would turn down this, he might and up showing to shark that he doesn't truly love Shark. So he mustered up his courage and gave her a gentle kiss.

Shark were actually warm blooded, as again, she were more pony than shark. Though her tail would be a little less warm, on account of it being more scaly, than furry.

As for the hug, she'd return it with enthusiasm, though a little clumsily, and stronger than were needed. She'd have to learn some degree of restraint with her strength, when showing these sorts of affection.

The kiss though... Now that confused her, and she just stood there, eyes opened, and waited for it to be over. Her eyes clearly showed that she were confused at what this were, as well as not sure what the meaning of it were. Were this meant as affection as well? Was this the pony way? Guess then, she should show him the shark way?

She'd open her maw high, and then chomp down on the top and bottom of his muzzle. Gently mind you, and for but a few seconds, with joy in her eyes. Sharks didn't have lips, so their kind of affection tended to be done with gentle nippling. Sometimes licking, and booping of snoots too. He'd be safe, as even if he began wriggling, she'd just loosen her grip rather than tear him up.

On 2022-03-25 at 11:43 PM, Kujamih said:

" You only do this to your mate and your pups okay shark? I would be extremely be jealous if you do it with somepony else. Ahmm."

" But I think we need to go to a school to learn even more and properly. I'll go ask Anomaly for assistance."

"Only mate? Okay. What is... Jeeea-loooo-us? Jealous. What is jealous? Is it food?"

It didn't make sense in the context for her, but then, neither did the concept of being jealous, so no wins there, regardless of how you looked at it.

As for schooling... Yeeah, they'd have no luck, getting either of them into an official Equestrian school via her. Technically, she wasn't even an Equestrian citizen. And neither were Shark.

On 2022-03-25 at 11:43 PM, Kujamih said:

Light would heed aid towards Anomaly to help them get into a school.

"Hey, don't look at me. I'm home schooling. If you wanna enroll into pony schools, you gotta speak with their mayor. Or princess? I dunno, maybe both. Rules and laws are silly things, but ponies do love them so."

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

 

@Starforce

On 2022-03-25 at 11:42 PM, Magnolia said:

"...It means a great deal to me that you would not only respect - but support my decision. I am not against stallions, mind you...perhaps in another world if I had never met Zeehva, I would have wanted one by my side eventually - but what matters is the here and now. What we can do with our actions, and to connect each other with stronger bonds - that include true love, as well." Magnolia said, having willingly looked into Alluria's eyes.

"Love is indeed the most important part. Though not raised to be accepting of... Non-traditional couples, in the end, what the heart yearns for, is what is important. Long as it does not hurt another, or are against certain laws, one should be allowed to follow it.

That being said, if you have some interest in stallions still, you may yet be able to grant us another descendant. I shall be following what will happen with interest, yet in the end, your happiness, is what matters. You have earned such in life, after all you have been through, one way or another. Just do not pass up the chance to size your moment, when her business have concluded. Trust me, I know well, that life does not go on forever."

On 2022-03-25 at 11:42 PM, Magnolia said:

"Thing is that most have to understand is that Zeehva saved me from a very dark path. If I had not encountered her, I would have harmed many ponies in my quest for my voice to be heard in a crude, and vengeful way. She is the one who showed me a different path. Not one forged by battle, theft, and servitude..." Magnolia paused, breaking Alluria's gaze and looking off into the clouds above.

"But by talking. Simple. Talking, yes. How simple such a thing is - yet so many forget the meaning of words." she said smiling up at the clouds and then looking back into Alluria's eyes. Oh, how she could never tire of looking into those ghostly eyes.

"Then I have her to thank, for bringing me a descendant, whom I can be proud of. I hope it will not be long til I shall meet her, yet hours shall still pass at the least, I would think. Getting here tends to take time, as it is beyond regular bounds of society. A matter of some degree of privacy, and independence, are related to why, but there are several factors. Yet I will pester you with history later, there is likely more immediate things you would like to see, and know. And I stand ready to indulge that, as best I can. Long as we remain within the walls of this town, I can traverse it in its entirety."

Alluria would keep her gaze on Magnolia too. Though she did not need to blink, her descendant might find it interesting that she yet did. A habit, that were not halted so easily, simply by her being dead for centuries.

One could see pride in the deceased mare's eyes though, beneath the stoic layers, that she so often had layered more prominently over her demeanor. She were still trying to get used, to being around family once more. To think, how many generations must it not have been now, since last one deigned to answer her? Far too many, she would think. And this generation, were by far the most interesting, and varied. She would wish to meet them all, if possible. Even the parents, whom she had less than kind thoughts towards at the current time.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-03-28 at 9:50 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"If you were looking for something poetic, you'd likely find Rising saying he has the City.  You're wrong to think him alone.  His work is more than just toil.  The relationship he has with his coworkers is satisfying to him and on his beat, his patrol route, he is well loved by the community.  Reserved, quiet, wise and thoughtful, his expression is just... different.  Rising is rarely even at his apartment to brood and be secluded.  I have my parties and I love to date and explore, fleeting distractions.  Someday we'll both have our Special Someponies, when the time is right and the right pony is found," Dawn exhausted.  

"Feel free to introduce me to anypony you wish, who knows when the click will happen or what form that pony will take," she mused.  Dawn didn't share the fairy tale interest most mares had in dreams of find Prince Charming.  She wishes not to swoon over such royalty.  Much more ideal to her likely to be swooned over by somepony in such prestige.  A wonderfully amusing thought.

"Work is not the same, as family. But I understand your point of view, and that he finds joy in seeing those he works with, and those who benefits from his service.  Though still, I hope he finds one, before he goes infertile. You too. Neither of you, should be denied the blessing of a foal. Or several, if you are so inclined.

I will halt my pushing of it, for now, at least. Though I think you may find the prince interesting to get to know regardless, hm? If you want to have hooks in the country, you could do well, in being on good terms with the crown prince, I would think."

Granted, there were a few reasons why Necrotic were single, from what she were aware, yet... She wasn't entirely sure if that wasn't more of a boon in this case. It were hard to get a proper read on Dawn, in all honesty. Twisted would have loathed her. Which were just one more reason why - albeit cautious to a certain degree - Lily were somewhat fond of the young mare.

On 2022-03-28 at 9:50 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Not as grand as my own, but there's always something special about where one grew up," Dawn relaxed as the presence and safety of her home for two decades washed over her.

"This place is at least seven times larger, than where I grew up. And I think that might be a gross understatement."

It would likely be more than twenty times, if you took in all, which she so far couldn't see. Her home had been modest, to put it mildly, and there had been six ponies living there. To say there were no privacy, were a laughable understatement. A little sad at times, to remember that of those six, only she remained, but such were time. It took, and it took, and rarely gave back, if not forced to. The various monsters didn't help either, if she were to be honest. Harsh as it sounded, there were a reason why in Harrowmark, they tended to have a healthy amount of foals, or pups. It left spares.

As for this place she were in now... She had an inkling where it were, even before she were nearly flat out told so, as some of the surroundings, looked awfully familiar. Yet the comment from Dawn, had all but cemented it, as being her parents house. Or mansion, would perhaps be a better term. This place looked enormous.

"This is where you and Rising grew up then? There's certainly space for a couple of foals, and parents here, in rather comfortable surroundings. It seems your parents works have left them well off, for quite some time. Is this really how well you can as a teacher, and a... Hmm, your mothers profession escapes me, I must admit. Regardless, surely what both of them does, must be highly valued, to leave you with so spacious of a home.

How were it, to grow up here? I don't know anyone, who have ever had this much space, even as a sole being. And that includes Twisted. He spread his work over several buildings, yet he lived in a small building. Barely a stable, with little luxuries. He claimed it distracted him from the work, if he become too comfortable."

The biggest luxury he had, were his bed, yet he barely used it as it were. He were constantly working on improving his craft, and going on to do bigger, and worse things. Were she honest, she would think all of it, were because he wanted to ascend to godhood, yet didn't know how to kill a god proper. So instead he manipulated things, to change the scales drastically, and eventually end up getting Viz'nay eradicated. Which would leave a vacuum. Or he were mad enough to think that he could have them both toppled, and take it all upon himself. Crazed, but she would not be surprised.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-03-27 at 3:09 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’m not sure if we could stop ourselves from making rash decisions if it means you’d find peace. Let’s hope it won’t have to come to that, but we’ll still throw up some gates to make sure you aren’t getting hurt. If something goes sideways, we’ll be ready.”

“I… we wouldn’t know what to make of other draconequi. The only one we’ve met so far is Discord, and he seems to be different enough from how to stories depict him. Chaotic as he may be, he seems to have found some positive influences. Not sure same could be said about others of his kind, but I’m not holding my breath.”

"Their kind are varied, so it is hard to judge one, on how another does. Discord is chaotic, but seems to be mostly on a calmer side these days. Some are rumored to cause havoc and madness, on a scale that makes beings lose their minds. Then there are one like Fright, whom apparently runs a temple where she helps others with their problems- As said, they are very varied. We must keep that in mind with this one too then. Although the fact that one resides so close to the princess, and she have yet to attack it, does speak of her being if nothing else, then perhaps discrete, and not one to take away locals? As they have Discord on their side, I would imagine that if it came down to it, he could likely fight off that one, if she turned out to be trouble.

Regardless, your offering of gates is appreciated, and would be preferable. But if it comes down to there being a price, which I am given a choice to pay, I ask that you please let me, and do not interfere. Regardless of how she is, she is still a draconequui. It will likely be more painful to my dignity, than body.

Though speaking of gates, I would suggest that perhaps only yours, and not Omens? I know she is faster, but what might happen, if the draconequui finds access to her home world?"

"...Sibling?"

"Yes. I would prefer it not coming to that, when we don't even know how dangerous she is."

Granted, Omen and her kin, were told strictly not the fight, or harm, but there would likely be ways to sway them, or make them unaware of what harm they were causing. He could think of a few ways one less experienced than Omen, could be made to cause quite a few issues, regardless of intent, and he'd think it best for all involved, if it did not come to that.

On 2022-03-27 at 3:09 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“You don’t need to worry about being prepared for the meal. The hosts would be the ones to prepare for the guests, though I’m unsure if that may hold true for ponies. He’s been away from the forest for so long, he may not continue the practice anymore.”

“I suppose there’s also something else to consider. He offered and invited us earlier today, and he may not have a lot prepared on such short notice. I suppose it won’t hurt to bring some food to make sure he doesn’t run his supplies dry. Some vegetables or plants might suffice.”

"It varies with ponies, with what sort of meal it is. A straight forward dinner, the hosts usually handle things, and the guests would at best, be expected to bring wine. Something like a cookout though, others would be expected to bring a meal, and put it on a table so that all can mix and match. A good way to meet and get to know your community a little better. A large number of casseroles though. A simple meal, for the more uninspired.

In regards to this, the issue here comes, that we don't really know what he might be thinking on preparing. If we wish to add to the meal, we'd have to ask. If it is but to fill his closet again though, we can bring what you think might be best, even if it is things from your homeland. I can imagine him not having easy access to that, so perhaps it would be a nice gesture? Unless all things there are meant as something you would have to purchase, or trade for, first? I am not yet clear on how the rules are, regarding plucking things from the wilderness, when it comes to the longma settlements.

We can also go by things from Equestrian soil, where the rules can be more loose, depending on the area. And I do have extensive knowledge on what is, and what is not, poisonous. So we could bring him some safe things, which would have common usage in food. I will leave the decision on this solely on you though. I think as a fellow longma, you would know best what might make him pleased, and we can work from that accordingly."

Omen would be ready, if it were something that had to be paid for. Of the lot of them, she likely had the largest amount of cash available, while at the same time, having nothing she needed to use them on, as she had no real need for anything. Shelter, food, objects- All were luxuries to her, as she were extremely low maintenance. As were Shrimp, really. Shelter from bad weather, and some fruit to eat, and he were happy.

As for Rosa, he'd straighten up, and try to clear his head. They had things to do now, and he needed his focus, for whatever were to come now. Soon as Sen and Lin set them into motion, they'd leave, and get on track with whatever path were best taken, in their opinion. 

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I have a hunch on who that may be." Ruby stated coldly as she looked at the picture of the mare "Didn't personally know her, but Spicy and Marley told a little about the mother of the casino's owner, and I'd say the....demeanor in the picture matches the image I got of her." "If I'm right, this is more a celebration than mourning period for most, though the owner himself may be upset, seemed like the kind of individual to have the false believe that just because someone is same blood as you, you need to support them." obviously Ruby didn't support this believe, wanting to have her own mother's separated head in her claws some day.

"She have a very punchable face. But yeah, it's customary for ponies to mourn others death's, even if they were disliked. Frankly I don't think all deserve it, but it's rare among ponies, that there is at least not someone there, ready to bawl out their eyes for someone, who did not have an ounce of kindness in their heart.

...I also find this tacky. The pack mourned my adopted mother better, when her time came. This is just overblown and ridiculous."

Simpler times back then. Though really, it were simpler times in general, compared to this. The rich always got far more than they deserved, and sadly, this were no different. The whole place were draped in black, yet it were clear that no one really liked her. Other scoffed at the pictures, or openly ignored them. She did not see a single tear anywhere, nor really anyone, which indicated that they had likely shut down things for now, while the mourning proceeded. Her best bet, were that most of the employees, were gathered somewhere, for a memorial speech. Probably most of them involuntarily.

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

After telling this to Leviathan, and possibly leaving the wagon somewhere if there was clear system for that, she approached the nearest staff member and asked "Who would I ask about the whereabouts of specific guest?"  and if it wasn't made clear at this point by signs or something else, she would also ask what she should do with a cart that she was bringing to somepony staying at the casino, after which she would approach the individual she was instructed to, and if it was another staff member, she'd ask in what room was Spicy staying, and that in case she wanted to know who's asking, Ruby Shine was asking, and that she had an important message from Marley, and also her stuff. If however it was the owner himself she was pointed to, she would be more blunt. simply asking where Spicy was and that she had her stuff and a message for her ears only. 

There were a point outside the hotel, where guests could park their various modes of transportation. A few other carts were there too, though there'd be space for them. Most who came here, were tourists, so it weren't often that the parking lot got filled. Yet it were good to have it, just in case. Especially for the larger things, like poker tournaments, when the contenders tended to take their personal transportation means with them. At least if it were a higher up event.

They wouldn't have to go far to find an employee from there, as one were always stationed outside, ready to handle guests. Even now, when the hotel seemed closed for new entries, there still had to be some there, to assist those already checked in. As such, an attendant had walked over to them, when they were seemingly looking for a place to park, with a friendly smile, and warm eyes. Seems like someone hadn't been broken by his job yet. Or were just professional enough to hide his likely indifference.

...Or you know, this might be a genuinely joyful pony, who wanted to show the customers a friendly face, but what did she know? She were a dragon, not a changeling. She couldn't read minds.

"A good day to you all, friends. I'm terribly sorry for the inconvenience, but I'm afraid we're closed for the day, due to the passing of Mrs. Pennyworth. Furthermore, it isn't customary to simply give details out about our guests, lest there is special circumstances.

That being said, it sounds as if there are unregular events at hoof here..."

The stallion looked to the side, uncertain what to do here.

"...Let me call for one, more familiar with the pair. They can likely help guide things better. A moment, please."

He'd scurry off, and about... 3-4 minutes later, there would come another, older pony. Tuxed up, and looking a good deal more neutral. Probably a card dealer. They were meant to not give anything away.

He'd cast a look upon the cart, then back at the assembled group.

"That looks like hers, yes. You're looking for Spicy then? I can direct you there. Follow me please."

He recognized the pattern on the cart. She had a certain style, as did others of her kind, and he were paid to be observant.

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Charir meanwhile was his curious self, though he stayed more obviously close to Leviathan, seeking security in this very much unfamiliar situation, it was pretty clear at this point which dragoness he liked more, though it wasn't entirely just because Ruby's similarities to their mother, it was also to small extend the opposite, because while Leviathan was quite small for a dragon as far as Charir was concerned, he could tell she was lot older than Ruby, so in relation to their lifespan, Ruby was a young adult at best, while Leviathan was closer to full adult, thus, instinctively, being only a kid himself, Leviathan became in a way his new mother figure, while Ruby was more like a big sister, even ignoring the fact that she most likely was literally his sister. 

As he would direct them through the mostly empty casino, with all the machines turned off for good measure, they'd see more depictions of the passed, former owner, as well as various memorial statues. None of them were shown respect by the staff, yet at the place had surveillance, they couldn't openly mock it either, so they had to settle for indifference. Though it were questionable, how much the owner would care, if it were just minor things. Spitting on them though, would likely cause some trouble. If for nothing else, then sheer principle.

Leviathan didn't care much though, as she wandered along, with a great big smile on her face. Not from the death, but rather from how it seemed like Charir were staying close to her, for apparently comfort, into this - to him, she'd assume - odd place. She felt rather good, that she had earned his trust, to at least the point where she had become a point of comfort, for the young dragon. Hopefully she could keep his trust, and show him that he could rely on her, as he began to learn more of this less harsh country, than where he came from.

Wouldn't be much longer after that - discounting the fact they had to get to the third floor - before they'd come to the room. The pony that had lead them there would nod, the take his leave. He had other things to do, and this clearly was none of his business.

Walking inside, they'd find Spicy, sitting with a bottle of wine next to the bed, and taking the last few drops out of a big glass, of what smelled like red wine. It appeared she were in a great mood, albeit a little tired looking.

Seeing the troupe passing in, she'd raise the bottle towards Ruby, with an increased grin on her face.

"Now There we got ourselves a pony, who knows how to party. Calm down, calm down. I've done enough blackouts for a time, but this here bottles going down, one way or another, cause ding dong, the witch is gone. For real this time. It ain't one of her mock passing's, just to see if the staff would mourn her enough, if she actually died. Finally got herself on too many beings bad lists, to outrun judgement.

But enough about my good mood. Where's Marley at, and who're your gang? Don't tell you you went and traded him on the black market or something?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"No and yes." Scarecrow stated "It is true its actions are slightly concerning from point of view of normalcy and nature, but, and no offence to you Crow, for unnatural Everfree forest creature created by mad draconequus, I expected worse." "Though it should be mentioned...." he was now addressing crow "...as I am unable to form any kind of emotional connection, if you end up causing trouble, be it on purpose or not, that is worse than the benefits your companionship gives me, we may have to reconsider our relationship." "I do trust you, and considering your willingness to stay with me, I at least hope there is some kind of benefit you get from me too, so I wish not to break the partnership, but the truth is, I am uncaring, and ultimately have selfish wants like every thing that exists, and because the protection of innocent is the last thing left of the morality I once probably had, I am not willing to risk my potential to help for sake of disguise."

He'd feel understanding coming from Crow, before the bird would begin to let out some words of its own. Well, not words per se, but rather, it would flap down to the ground, and scratch a message into the dirt.

"Being better than them, doesn't mean I am going to hunt them, or their owners. I want to see their towns too, and how they live. Not be hunted.

I am the hunter. Not prey."

So overall, seemed like they had some agreement. Crow felt above pets, and most prey, which were not too surprising, as it seemed to be a mixture of spider and bird, made of nature parts. As such, a predator, and that wouldn't fit with caring deeply for the prey. It also didn't much care for hurting regular beings for no reason, in parts due to it not wanting to be hunted after, but rather remain able to see their world.

There were something more though, that it would scribble after this. It just had to jump back a bit, to make some room.

"Are you aware of a change? Something feels different from before."

Scarecrow likely couldn't tell, but it was true. There were a minute, nearly impossible change in their bond. For what purpose? Who knew. To it, it simply felt like there were something of a stronger tether, as odd as it sounded.

"Seems there is less to be worried about here then. Simply a predator, asserting dominance. And that went for you both. Now please, can you two behave among one another?"

Crow nodded. It had made its point, and had no further need to antagonize the mimic. As for her, she tentatively crawled out from her hiding space, and would crawl on top of Lyriel instead. Though she would still keep a safe distance, with some escape options into thick brush, from this... Thing, that were wandering with Scarecrow. Sure he were scary too, but at least he didn't act like he might eat her.

She'd chitter away, to which Lyriel would shake her head.

"I agree. Nature have become... Troublesome, since the draconequui moved in. Some things goes better than others. Yet he is not one of hers. He have been here for far, far longer. I assume this means you do not speak much with the other animals here, so you are from the outside? Are your friend too?"

There'd be a bit more back and forth, and Lyriel would nod once again, when it were all done.

"I see. I will send some word around, and see if others can help you. If I find her, I will send her toward you. You have my word."

The mimic - not wanting to be near Crow for any longer - would wander off after that, and disappear into the brush.

"A long day it have been, and yet it have barely started."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Solar Empire is a desert, and they have plenty of kobolds too, so we can adapt to that." Trox mentioned, not really expecting any kind of response, just pointing out. Chega thought for a second "It could be none of us have settled in a desert here, at least not in Equestria, since I doubt anyone would choose one specifically, and I don't see the kind of situation happening that would force us to do so, in Equestria that is, since outside Equestria there's bigger deserts where there could be less choice in the matter." this was again very analytical answer, as Chega thought about her past studies. 

"That's what makes the guard so annoying to deal with, they are predictably unpredictable, yet also unpredictably predictable." "They are blindly loyal to their superiors, and very blunt, if they want to kill you, they will tell it to your face as they are doing it." "So either he is truly loyal to Celestia, which would mean he's telling the truth, or he's still loyal to Daybreaker, and is lying to everyone." Chega listened with interest, getting bit more information about the other word, Daybreaker, that was an interesting name, she would need to ask about that when the time was better.

"So I am assuming the Solar Empire have the short sighted view of simply letting the sun bake down constantly then? What a waste of natural resources. As for your adaptability, I am not saying you would not be found in a desert. Merely, that it have not been in mine. I would have known. You can trust me on that."

She did not like trespassers. let it stay at that, and derail from going over further details. Just in case someone might be listening in.

"As for the geographics, Equestria is very biodiverse, from what I can gather, but it is a big world. Some of them, have deserts that stretches seemingly endlessly. Some towering mountains, or icy tundras. Not exactly a lack of space to find, and I would think only few places would be beyond adaptability.

Regardless, moving on to the guard... We will see what happens. A good idea would likely be though, to take every heard or seen from him, with a substantial grain of salt. Let him prove through action, where his loyalties lie. So far, I've yet to see substantial reasons to trust him though."

She were biased of course, as she didn't like those she couldn't read. Yet what she had heard from Trox and Sheska thus far, were not speaking in his favor either.

On 2022-03-27 at 2:29 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Heavy pony hoof steps going towards the more quiet parts of town."  

Nodding to the message, Onache would begin to wander in that direction, and spend her effort scouring through recent memories briefly, of those they passed. See if anything stuck out to them. She also stopped editing around those who reacted to her appearance. She had more important things to deal with now, and tired of the endeavor as it were. Let them get used to this, and kneel, if they dared to raise a hoof to her.

"...None have passed by, carrying a heavy load. That isn't the reason for the marks. Seen... Ah, there. One noticed another passing by, stomping unusually hard. Didn't get a look though, but... This way."

She wandered cautiously to the side, sending them towards an alley, that would connect them to an area near the park. There would be a few dozen more heavy hoofsteppes going that way, bu they would rapidly deteriorate. As if the one who had made them, had either calmed down, or just become more cautious, of not standing out.

There would still be clues to track though. While there would be plenty of hoofsteppes on the dusty ground, going in and out of the park, those wandering around it, were far fewer. One track specifically, would follow along the bushes, on the outside, and would fit the pattern, of the one they were following, as well as the direction, if they looked carefully.

Following that, they'd find that they would end, as they made it to a paved road. The area would have a few ways one could go, towards a clothing district, a residential area, with primarily elderly ponies, and an unfinished building, meant to replace one that had been recently destroyed. The reason for that, came in mind as she read one of the passerby's, and it caused Onache to pause, and look actually baffled.

"A... Hydra? There was a hydra here? What manner of town is this?"

Regarding further clues, there were few to go by, but there were ponies in every direction. Maybe if they picked one, Onache could scour some minds, and see if she could find somethin. That is, beyond depictions of monsters, that even she thought were myths.

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

 

@Widdershins @Sekel

On 2022-03-27 at 12:52 AM, Widdershins said:

"Please. I would never pick a fight and comit a crime right in the middle of a populated pony town and risk being captured." Kaltrop proudly, yet oddly enunciated in a way that a guard like Benny might catch onto for its implication that the slenderer dragon might have indeed been guilty of a few misdemeanors. "Not that I think that is of any concern. I don't think pony do Mind.

 You're a capable fire dragon, Beany. I think you know well enough that any other dragon could see you were capable of a fight and that alone would merit a fuss were you to blunder into some other dragon's territory munching on candy like a foal. You're... what, twice the muscle of any pony that lives here, long talons with a volcano burning inside you and that's not enough to get you shooed out of town? I'm sure sudden jets of a lightshow are the least of concern to this country town."

Besides. Anyway. As you stated.
I fly. I prefer my time alone. I do. The very notion of "cooperation" is silly to a dragon of high standing dragon status such as I.

"It's pretty hard to think of him as scary, when you see him fumble around, or try to claw a half eaten, caramelized apple off of his chin."

"Heh, yeah... I mean, I know how to fight, but everypony who sticks around me for long enough, pretty quickly figure out that I'm not all that aggressive. Never really fit into the Dragon Isles due to it. The rest of my family, and my mother especially, is well able - and willing - to deal out the hurt, if the situation is for it. Me? I'd prefer to talk it out. That's one more reason why I'm not in the front line. I lack the aggression. But hey, I'm a good blacksmith, and that's important too. You'd be amazed how much tattered gear I tend to go through repairing in a given week.

And yeah, some ponies, not a big fan of the breathing, so I tend to keep it down. Not really a lot that needs to be set on fire either, so it's not all that useful around here. Unless there's a campfire. That's mostly with the scouts though. Great bundle of foals, even if they're a little happy about doodling on my scales."

"Oh, don't pretend like you don't like it. The last time, you wouldn't wash yourself, before you had it all pictured."

Benny would rsie a hand to behind his head, and get a big, goofy grin on his face, as he were faced with a bit of a *busted* moment. Really, dragon or not, it was hard to think of him as scary, when you saw things like this. If it had been one of his elder brothers though? Biiiig difference. Some of those looked like they were just looking for a reason to crack some skulls. And in one case, that were true.

"Well, uh... Yeah, I got nothing. Heh."

It were not that Benny were flat out ignoring what he heard, that sounded like there ´were admission of heinous crimes by Kaltrop. It was more that he really didn't want to know, as and were afraid what he'd learn, if he asked. Right now, he could at least still feign ignorance. If he had details... He couldn't do that anymore. So hopefully the dragon would just keep quiet, and not do more horrible things. His new marefriend might be a good, positive influence on his life, in this manner.

"You know, cooperation have merits. I get it, if you're air alligned. Aloof sorts, who doesn't like being bound to things, but it's a big world, full of bigger, and stronger things. Apart, we'd crumble, but make some good friends and connections, and you'll see that you have some you ran rely on, when the going gets tough. Long as it isn't super illegal for instance, I'd be happy to have your back. Wadda ya say? Wanna try it out, friend?"

Benny would have spoken as they walked inside, and as he finished, would hold out his hand, offering it for Kaltrops to shake. A friendly manner, to try and offer a literal outstretched hand, in friendship. Had to start somewhere, right? Might as well be with him. He liked making friends.

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

 

@Widdershins

On 2022-03-27 at 12:52 AM, Widdershins said:

"Oh i'm sure there's LOAADS zombponies! No one's ever thought twice about it! Kirins sure don't have a concept about it far as I know! You worry too much, Little Guy!" Whett Kindle gave Cover Up a consipratorial friendly boop before they set off.

"Yeah, I... I guess I do worry a lot. It's just... It's hard to know who to trust, sir. I grew up being told that others were untrustworthy, and that you could only count on your neighbors, and family. Now I don't have either, and am wandering such a different culture... It's weird. Also I uhm... I guess it is okay to show you. W-When we get to the inn. I have uh... A little sliver of my culture left, that I'm hoping will help. N-Not a risen, or zombie, or anything like that. Just... W-Well, easier to show you, when we get there."

Cover Up really were worrying over nothing, most of the time. He knew it too. The vast majority of beings he had met, since his town were destroyed, had been nothing but kind, if a little curious about him. But with everything that had happened, and again, the culture difference, still made it hard for him to trust, and therefore adjust. He were doing a little better though, day by day. And maybe it would be good for him, to know Whett, in that regard. He were so very... Forthcoming and direct, compared to Cover Up. It might well be that a little of that could rub off on him, and vice versa. Make them both a little more tolerable/less awkward to be around.

In response to the boop, he'd tentatively raise a hoof, and then after a small delay, push back on Whett's booper. It was done so softly though, that it were barely something he'd feel. Foal steps though, right? Foal steps.

On 2022-03-27 at 12:52 AM, Widdershins said:

 When they had been greeted by the passing farm stallion, Whett had given an inelegant, but peppy hop into facing them and greeting them with the amount of cheeriness in volume that one would inclined to flinch and contemplate the science behind how much sound it took to cause window pane glass to shatter.
"HI THERE!!

Actually, it's Kirin!~ We're magical n' stuff!"

"Heh, well ain't you a chipper fellow."

The farm pony would give a grin towards the kirin, not too fussed about the energy, he seemed to put into things. He were used to seeing Pinkie Pie, so after dealing with her a enough times, folks tended to get a bit jaded about energy like this. He were at least. Wasn't the same for everypony, he supposed.

"So, kirin you say, eh? Think I heard some of the foals speak of that. Somethin' they learned in school. One of those the princess ran into, yeah? That why you're here, lad? Out looking how it is, round where she is? Heard that story a few times lately. She's been active making friends and stuff all 'round, so guess it's unavoidable. Ain't a big fuss. Better than the monsters, y'know? 

...'Cept that weird one, her fanatic's running round with. Ain't kidding ya, giant, talpking bug. Not changeling, but like, a proper, big mantis. Seemed like the sort who'd cut for good measure. Could be useful on a farm, but ain't thinking that's what them scythe arms were for.

Anywho, what brings you to Ponyville, friend? Maybe I can help guide you, and your lil' shy friend there. Don't worry 'bout me messing with ya. Wheat Whacker's the name, and my only game's farming."

 

[Plum Blossom]

@Blitz Boom 

"Oh just you wait and meet the Plum Family. We are an interesting bunch, that's for sure. And we are definitely farm ponies. Even before I got my cutie mark, I knew that I was going to be into plum farming when I grow up. It just so happens that my cutie mark means I'm into baking too." Plum Blossom said.

"Oh, Ponyville definitely has that quiet village feel, especially if you live on one of the farms on the outskirts. That is, when there isn't some monster tearing through town," Plum Blossom said.

"Yeah that's Applebloom, one of my friends, and that's Applejack, her older sister. Should we go meet them?" Plum Blossom asked.

[Sekel 692]

@Blitz Boom & @Starforce

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

Twilight was too busy reading the letter from the owl to pay too much attention to what was happening around her. Usually the letters would be classed as spam mail but something in the way this particular letter got to her had her reading it over and over.

"Sorry for not feeding you, miss owl. I don't have any owl treats. Haven't had them in a long time," she told the owl distractedly, unsure if it was still around or not. She gained a confused expression when she saw who wrote the letter and looked between it and the others. “I don’t really know who this Magnolia is but … it’s a highly convenient letter. There’s directions to Thicket Woods from the train station. Seems like we just need to take the train from Ponyville and continue beyond Canterlot for a spell."

@Blitz Boom & @Widdershins

DAWN STREAK & DAZZLE GLEAM

DAZZLE

Dazzle took a couple of breaths to keep herself calm while in the presence of Kaltrops. He infuriated her a bit and she's yet to find out why. She was brought back to her senses though by Stare talking to her.

"Huh? Oh, yeah, sure. I think bringing Scarcity here is better than finding her. Maybe she's got something after ... a day. I think that's how long it's been," Dazzle told Stare with a small smile. "Do you want me to help with something about that?" she asked after noticing the others going into the candy shop. She didn't exactly like candy herself and she hasn't had any in years but it might be worth an ask to try one if she parted ways with her new friend for a while.

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

DAWN

As for Dawn, she knew Kaltrops was a lot of hot air when it came to talking pompously but it annoyed her too. She felt a bit hurt at his statement of not working alongside any pony and attempted to keep it showing on her face. She made the mistake of looking at Circle Pop while feeling this and quickly walked into the shop to see the different kinds of candy available. She liked the look of the different candy Pop had made but she ended up heading into the backroom Benny suggested they go to to chat some more.

"S-So, how ... do you two ... make it work?" Dawn asked the pair when they were all set in the room, minus Dazzle and possibly Kaltrops if he bothered to walk in as well.

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"That was certainly something," Aurora commented lightly, shaking herself a bit to keep balanced and somewhat comfortable with the weight of the liquid-filled barrel on her back. She did enjoy herself within the draconequi dimension once she let things go and went with things. She tested turning and walking forward and backwards before nodding. "Okay .... Lulu, Flaxx, Happy, do we have a plan at the moment? I think Happy and I were going back to Queen Onache but I could be wrong."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE & ATZY

"Whooa that is soo cool!" Atzy cheered happily, bouncing up and down in excitement. She had never seen a firework before and it was such a joy to behold. "With the way it exploded, and the pictures, and the boom, and the soot, and hahaha, this is amazing! Is there any more!?"

Karmic smiled at the firework display but mainly, she stayed back and let Atzy enjoy things for the first time. Having been a puddle of changeling parasitic goo, Atzy might not have experienced much until Karmic had stumbled upon her during her escape with Zio.

"Just try not to get too carried away. I don't think the land can handle two explosive happy ponies," Karmic told them when the minute-long show had finished exploding.

Edited April 5, 2022 by Sekel
Changed Twilight’s reaction

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-04-01 at 4:01 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Though speaking of gates, I would suggest that perhaps only yours, and not Omens? I know she is faster, but what might happen, if the draconequui finds access to her home world?"

"...Sibling?"

"Yes. I would prefer it not coming to that, when we don't even know how dangerous she is."

“In that case, I think I have a few places in mind I can send us if things go wrong. I’m not sure if a draconequus has the ability to track movement over large distances, but I could try sending ourselves to locations that don’t appear sensible. Might not be enough to call off a chase, but those areas are isolated enough that they aren’t going to get anyone else caught in a bad situation. It should keep Omen’s home realm safe from unwanted visitors.”

One location Lin expressly had in mind was an old mountaintop she resisted in for some time. She needed a place to practice using Malvernis’s dark magic, and there was some measure of success. Unfortunately, it also caused all vegetation to cease growing in the area for many years to come, possibly for eternity. A reminder of of her own pride, yet it still served its purpose when she needed a statue moved there before transport to Scarcity’s shop. Last she knew, a storm rolled in and covered the area in a thick layer of rainwater. It might not be the prettiest place to look at, but there was still a measure of utility in a place she once desecrated. 

Beyond that, there were a couple of forests outside of Equestria she could send everyone in case they need to lay low. The journey outside Equestria’s borders is full of uncharted land, some of which could be useful for throwing off a scent or a lead. An old hideaway might still be usable, if it hasn’t been covered in overgrowth, but that remained to be seen.

On 2022-04-01 at 4:01 AM, Blitz Boom said:

We can also go by things from Equestrian soil, where the rules can be more loose, depending on the area. And I do have extensive knowledge on what is, and what is not, poisonous. So we could bring him some safe things, which would have common usage in food. I will leave the decision on this solely on you though. I think as a fellow longma, you would know best what might make him pleased, and we can work from that accordingly."

“Maybe Uddo misses some of the food from back home, but this time of day isn’t good for foraging or trading. Those with food for exchange have likely already gone home, and looking for food isn’t safe when nighttime approaches. The only time that’s ever an option is if one were traveling along the paths between the villages, and even then, travelers would rest in the forest outposts instead of braving the trails at night. You’ll never know what creatures could be hunting in the cover of darkness.”

“I think it might be best if we go with simpler food that is easily or already prepared. We appreciate your offer to go looking for food from the wilderness, but between time and effort, we could be needlessly exhausting ourselves. You ought to save your strength for what comes after dinner, Rosa.”

“Let’s see if we can find ourselves something like a fruit basket or some assorted vegetables. I hear ponies have a kind of meal where they mix different plants together with other kinds of food. I’ve never tasted it before, but I heard they could be delicious. It’ll also be close enough to that mixture of plants we normally have, just with different plants.”

Sen had once heard of that meal being described as such, and it was pretty delectable based on what he could remember. Fruits and vegetables tossed together and drizzled in dressing that was just as strange to him as the idea of the meal itself left a lot to the imagination. He was still open to that idea, but he wouldn’t be surprised if Uddo planned to prepare the same thing for dinner. The lack of meat was certainly within the realm of possibility. 

Their trip within the town could give them some ideas while taking a stroll, but the siblings would give Rosa and Omen a bit of time to get ready before heading out. Lin was simply certain that she’d have some other options in mind while they are out and about in the town.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Sharks warmth and strength of her hug was a bit of a surprise to light, but he did not mind. But after the kiss, the nibbling of shark made him bright red. Sharks show of affection is more extreme than he'd expected. But he does not wish to be out done by shark, So he too tried to nibble and boop Shark.

" Am I doing it right?" He blushingly questioned.

Back at his question about the school with anomaly.

" I guess shark and I should go find one then, that is if you wanna go to a school to learn, shark? is the school of friendship exist in this dimension? If so can we be sent there?" He asked anomaly.

 

Edited April 2, 2022 by Kujamih

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby had a neutral expression during the interaction with the staff, her dislike of everyone made a kind of a loop which led to her to be relatively friendly to staff in places, since the fact she wanted to interact with them as little as possible lead to her wanting to make things go as smooth as possible. She didn't pay much attention to the appearance of the casino as they were lead to Spicy, as frankly she didn't care about the dead mare or really anything else to do with this place, she did notice Charir's...preference, but she was not surprised or hurt by it, she wouldn't come close to herself either.

Ruby thanked the pony that lead them with a nod as he left, she appreciated that he was smart enough to not get curious, an unfortunately rare thing with ponies, and if it would have been more common, she may have disliked them a bit less, but only a bit. 

"I figured you'd be on a positive mood." Ruby remarked in the same style as when she interacted with Spicy before, not that it was much different from anyone else. She didn't actually remember if the wake passing's had been mentioned before since she hadn't been fully listening, but it did not surprise her at all and seemed somewhat familiar idea regarding the old pony. "I don't think many would be willing to buy such a stubborn bird." she joked, before going to the topic itself "This is Leviathan, my bodyguard, don't let the size fool you, looks can be deceiving."  "And this one, we call him Charir, don't try to speak to him, he doesn't understand a word you say, in business terms, he's a package I'm transporting." 

as she spoke, Ruby kinda just realized a one more picture she may be accidentally drawing of herself, and she wasn't entirely sure yet if it was a good thing or not, she was a 'pony' with two dragon travelling companions, wearing a cursed dragon's eye on her neck, be it covered by the sebra's necklace, carrying a box with claws and teeth of dragons with her, and in her fake story her client is a dragon...she really just came up as a pony with odd obsession with dragons, implication which was even more interesting if Spicy really believed she was a changeling. She also had literal sense for treasure and was 'allergic' to substance known to irritate dragons...she had to think about it, there could be enough fuel for a fake backup story.

"Then for Marley, well, for start, we were actually coming here with him, but something came up, which was important enough that he promised his paycheck just so that I'd deliver the message..." she though for a moment to remember the exact words "...He will be taking undisclosed amount of personal time, and you can open some folder he told you to not open if you value your life." she then stated with tone like one reading from a script "And for what happened exactly, since I don't know what that folder will have, in short, a magical, seemingly religious fox attacked our train and after some very cult like discussion took Marley with it, voluntarily may I add, he was not taken against his will." she saw no reason to not tell that, since that much detail would be something someone that just happened to see it from outside the train would also have. 

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

Scarecrow gave acknowledging nod to Crows response, though it made him wonder for a moment if Crow could actually die, it clearly had will of self preservation, but since it wasn't natural being, would it die or would it just rebuild like Timberwolves did? For Crows question, he shook his head, he didn't really feel the connection in the same way Crow did, so small changes went unnoticed, though he did ask what Crow meant exactly, and would focus on its possible response while Lyriel chatted with the mimic. He did notice the Mimic's focus being seemingly more in Crow, and in a weird way it was almost nice, since it was rare he wasn't the most feared thing around.

"Indeed, even I can tell there has been a lot of things for a short time." For him there wasn't long days or short days since he had no sense of time, but he could tell the passage of time from certain things, the most obvious being the movement of sun and moon when he could see them. "Maybe this day will stick in my memory for while longer, as it has been a while since things have been this...eventful."

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

The siblings nodded regarding the Solar Empire, that was one of the very few positive things about living under Nightmare Moon, they couldn't even imagine how horrible it was to live in constant sunlight, even if you had adapted for it, though they didn't think natural resources were a problem, since Nightmare moon had somehow managed to keep nature alive without sun, there was no doubt Solar Empire had also magical means to keep the land habitable enough. They also nodded regarding the guard, though they would probably never trust him fully, because if nothing else, just seeing him gave them flashbacks of the things his kind did.  Sear and Chega just listened and observed curiously, not wanting to comment on topic they didn't really know about, though they did give small nods of agreements towards the biodiversity of Equeastria and the world.

"That's Ponyville for you, don't know what it is about this town, but it seems to attract all the weirdest and most dangerous beings and events to it, haven't seen anything similar anywhere else." Having heard about it few times now, Trox and Sheska also wondered about the town's tendency to be attacked "Could be it's some kind of magical concentration point, studies in our world show that magic isn't evenly spread, just a guess though." he could have talked more about it, but they had something else to worry about at the moment.

Everyone would be observing the surrounding in the same way as previously, and again it would be Sear to speak up "This is only a logical reasoning based on nothing I can see, but maybe they went there." she pointed towards the elderly pony residential area "The unfinished building, while it would be a typical choice, there isn't really anyone to harm, and there..." she pointed towards the clothing district "...is bit too busy to do something unnoticed" "Meanwhile there..." again the residential area "...I think most of the population is elderly, they are an easy target, and there could be financial motivation if it's a relative." all the kobolds looked at Sear, not because they disagreed with her, but because the concept of killing one's own parent for money was so horrendous to community species like them that they hadn't even though about it as an option

 

 

 

[Rising Dusk 27,537]

@Blitz Boom

"Home sweet home," the mare affirmed and remained quiet for a moment for Lily to take in her own observations.  Homely and cozy, at least by Dawn's standards, but her perspective was of course skewed by not knowing any different.  In the area this home was located, it was like many others along the block.  More upscale than the suburbs to be sure, but not near the tier where Dawn herself lives.  Full of many memories in both the good and bad times.  The second floor was where the twins lived.  The left door was less of a door and more a childhood art project.  None of the wood could be seen behind the spattering of unorganized band and theater posters, magazine clippings and photos.  It was lucky the door knob survived the mess for the door to even be opened.  The door on the right, dark oak to match the rest of the aesthetic of home, simply had a plaque of a silhouette of the Manehatten skyline nailed to it.  The third room between the two was a spare bedroom for guests.

The third floor was a bit hard to see from down on the ground floor, but their were matching rooms.  The middle room with the double doors served as the master bedroom where their parents slept and the other two doors on either side were each their offices.  Their fathers was more a library than and office really, but they were such buried in there was a desk at least.  Mothers was spill over for outfits that couldn't fit in their primary closet.

"I'd say well enough.  Father teaches higher education at University.  Better pay through a teacher of primary school at least.  Mother is the real bread winner.  Aerial dancer for the Manehatten Theater and ballet.  Very big and popular entertainment of the arts.  And she was very good at it.  Past her prime to perform, now she teaches it and his highly sought after," Dawn explained.

"Who are you calling, 'Past her prime'?" a familiar voice inquired from above the pair.  Casting one's gaze upward would reveal the pegasus gracefully fluttering down from the third floor.  Dressed in a forest green dress with bronzed, aged autumn leaf clips decorating her mane.  A pearl necklace and heavy evidence she had spent her own fair share of time in front of a vanity to elevate her already good looks.  "You're aging gracefully of course, mother, but what is the likely hood of you pulling off a Pluie Fouette these days?" she asked.  "How I miss my youth," the mother sighed, placing the back of her hood across her forehead in dramatic fashion.  "The size may seem a little big for a family of four, but through my work, the need to host gatherings was common place."

The sound of hoofs on hard wood clacked on the stairs of the third floor.  Trailing down and down the journey to the ground floor.  Rounding the last bit of stairs the nose maker came into view.  An older stallion.  Charcoal gray with a spackling of white spots here and there.  A lighter gray mane and thick bushing mustache that draped down on either side of his mouth to his chin.  His mane and mustache had begone to salt and pepper as he crept into older age.  The unicorn's horn was aglow in that same dark gray aura that was matched by the aura that enveloped the loose bow tie around his neck that attempted to complete the suit he'd been dressed in.  A pair of silver spectacles adored his snoot.  The bow tie folded and weaved, failing terribly to complete a bow.  "Confound this thing," the frustrated stallion exclaimed.  His voice was gruff, aged and worn from decades of talking in lectures in higher volume tones to ensure the back of his classes could hear him.  Each syllable causing his mustache to wavier a little against his puffs of breath from speaking.  Grace fluttered over to the stallion "Let me, dear," and with a few quick movements of her hoofs, tied his bow tie into a perfect fit. 

Edited April 5, 2022 by Rising Dusk

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Starforce

"Most of the tomes you see here, are written by the Macabre family. Two thousand years of knowledge, pertaining death, related magic, and theoretical science of the matter. I dare to say, you would not find its equal anywhere. At least not in Equestria.

Some tomes though, are written by those associated in some manner. A few tomes of my own making for example, or that of scholarly necromancers. Yet the subject remains the same. And it all began, with the first tome. Follow me."

Going past rows and rows of books, they would eventually reach a section with various objects of importance, encased in glass montres, carrying special magic within, that would cover things in a pale hue. One of those, laying at the very heart of the library, were the object that Alluria wanted them to see. A brown tome, seemingly bound in leather, closed and hovering slightly in the air. Though it seemed unremarkable, the extra layers of defenses on it, told how important it were for those here.

"Not everything grand, begins with an object that draws in the eyes. So is it with the Macabre Clan, and this, the personal diary, of Silent Howl. The tales of her day to day life, dealing with death, and a society that shunned her for partaking in it. All whilst looking for the origins of her own, unknown parents. It is via this, that we know of her father, who is said to have been the original source of this curse, that afflicts the clan's female members. As well as where especially the earlier leaders of the family, found ways to alleviate, some of the worst issues that comes with it. Teach themselves, and their young, how to live with it."

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

 

@Ocean Wavedream

On 2022-04-01 at 3:14 AM, Plum Blossom said:

"Oh just you wait and meet the Plum Family. We are an interesting bunch, that's for sure. And we are definitely farm ponies. Even before I got my cutie mark, I knew that I was going to be into plum farming when I grow up. It just so happens that my cutie mark means I'm into baking too." Plum Blossom said.

"Plums are nice. Sometimes, I can make plum jelly, but it gets varied. That's what my cutie mark means. I got it, when I bit into a cloud, and I turned the insides to jelly. I dunno how I do it, but I know the clouds have to be juuuuuuuust right. Not gonna be a jelly maker though, nuhuh. I wanna be a Night Guard, just like my parents."

Her mom would prefer it if she had become a jelly maker of some sort, since she were worried what might happen to her daughter. Yet much like with Stargazer, she were supportive of their filly, and if she were determined to be a guard, they'd make sure she were prepared, and knew how to stay safe. In the end, that were the job of any parent too. To ensure that their foals got prepared for the world, and had their backs, in whatever path they chose. And as Night Guards, they both knew how to make sure, that Jelly were ready for it, if she kept wanting to go down that path.

On 2022-04-01 at 3:14 AM, Plum Blossom said:

"Yeah that's Applebloom, one of my friends, and that's Applejack, her older sister. Should we go meet them?" Plum Blossom asked.

"Sure! Hi, Applejack, and Applebloom. My name's Jelly Drop. It's nice to meet you."

Sure she had seen Applebloom in school, but that didn't mean she had definitively spoken with her. Had only been a day there, before the house broke down, and she had to skip the second day. Not a lot of time, for others to get to know the bat pony hybrid, from Canterlot.

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

 

@Sekel @Starforce

"Krrthhrk. A letter with directions? How convenient."

"It could be an ambush."

The two of them agreed on this at least. The whole thing just seemed overly convenient, considering their plans, and they had both lived in a place, were trust were a rare thing to have, for those not in your immediate circle of companions. So this just seemed like it would be a way to lure in the princess, to kidnap/kill her. Maybe both.

"But we only just came up with the plan to go there. How would they know we'd be interested? I'm sure it's just a coincidence."

"I don't trust in that. My blade are going to stay ready for this. Yet it is the princess who decides. Where you go your majesty, I shall follow."

"Rhrhhhtjkx. My path, is bound to yours."

As they spoke, the owl took off again. He had delivered the message, and gotten a treat in return. He had fulfilled his part, and wanted to go home to have a nap again.

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

 

@Sekel @Widdershins

"I'll be fine. Stay safe, okay? I won't be long."

Least she didn't hope so, but you never knew with Scarcity. Especially with how long it had been, since last she saw her sister. Might be an hour, if she had much to share.

For now though, she'd leave, and the rest could then go and have their conversation in peace, here in the back room. Though she did send a glance towards Kaltrops.  Something told her that he were going to cause trouble in her absence. But sadly, she couldn't do a lot about that right now. She had to go and deal with other things first.

*sigh* Hopefully they wouldn't be trying to strangle one another, anytime soon... Or at least not in-door.

On 2022-04-02 at 1:23 AM, Sekel said:

"S-So, how ... do you two ... make it work?" Dawn asked the pair when they were all set in the room, minus Dazzle and possibly Kaltrops if he bothered to walk in as well.

"The relationship, or other stuff? Cause it's both pretty easy.

But assuming you mean the relationship, it's not too hard. You have to give and take a little, like with any couple. Accepting quirks, make room for eachother- Everything. Just think of him as a large, scaled pegasus, that won't wrinkle.

Seriously, the race thing isn't important. There's some quirks. Some oddities. Same as there'd be with any couple. The most important thing, is that you like one another, and find some balance, in how to approach things. Dragons and ponies tend to have different interests after all. I was lucky that Benny embraced Equine life fully, but I don't expect Kaltrops to do the same. But you can share the culture, bit by bit, and then figure out how best to share it, with one another.

As for the age... Just try not to think about it. It will inevitably happen, but that's just how life is. Treasure the time you have, instead of worrying about the future."

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

 

@Sekel

"That was about the gist of our plan, aye. Not sure 'bout you two though."

Happy were just aiming to return to his queen at this point, and update her on all the crazy stuff, that had been going on. Which were not exactly a short list.

"I think I will aim for Ponyville, and revel in a little amount of stable society, rather than this chaos infested forest. I think I have had quite enough for now."

"Bah, was fun. Come back one day too. Want to fight big guy. Looked strong, and Flaxxy like strong."

"Please forgive her. She have a great urge to fight anything, that she sees as stronger than her. A lack of proper challenges, I'm afraid."

"Y'know, Ponyville ain't far from the hive. You wanna tag along still?"

"Long as we do not have to meet your queen. I would explain why, but it wouldn't be polite."

"Yeah, I get it. But no worries. We'll just avoid the desert."

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

 

@Sekel

Blitz did indeed have some more, and she were thrille3d to show it off. Not everything as glamorous as this, but they could have a solid, twenty minutes worth of fun with this. And albeit he had not at first been overly interested in the noisy, and smelly things, Enzo had to admit, that he were feeling some joy over this. There were something special about this, in his eyes.

"And that's most of what I had left. Pretty, right? And I made it with stuff I found in the forest! And sometimes bins, but mostly forest stuff.

My big bro took me to his workshop, and that's bigger, and full of even more special stuff. Good materials too, so I can make even better stuff. Hehe, already did, days ago. And he makes lots and lots of things too. You should really see it. Some of it right, are robots! And AI."

"What are robots, and AI, little one?"

"Robots are metal creatures, and AI means Artificial Intelligence. It's like... Making life, with technology."

"...I understand little of this. Have either of you some idea what this means?"

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-04-02 at 2:54 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“In that case, I think I have a few places in mind I can send us if things go wrong. I’m not sure if a draconequus has the ability to track movement over large distances, but I could try sending ourselves to locations that don’t appear sensible. Might not be enough to call off a chase, but those areas are isolated enough that they aren’t going to get anyone else caught in a bad situation. It should keep Omen’s home realm safe from unwanted visitors.”

"Good. If we are fortunate, we will not need this, but I find that it is always wise, to have a backup plan. Things can always go wrong after all."

They had seen that several times, as they had been along their path. Mostly it would backfire on him, yet there had been mostly contingencies, and even if not, the other members of the party, had solutions. This in and by itself, were also backup plans, so it would fit the grander narrative, so to speak. The important part still, were that something might always not go according to plan, so one had to think of what to do, in case that happened. For this situation, Lin had a good plan to work with. They would make use of that, in case the draconequui proved... Unwilling to help.

On 2022-04-02 at 2:54 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Maybe Uddo misses some of the food from back home, but this time of day isn’t good for foraging or trading. Those with food for exchange have likely already gone home, and looking for food isn’t safe when nighttime approaches. The only time that’s ever an option is if one were traveling along the paths between the villages, and even then, travelers would rest in the forest outposts instead of braving the trails at night. You’ll never know what creatures could be hunting in the cover of darkness.”

“I think it might be best if we go with simpler food that is easily or already prepared. We appreciate your offer to go looking for food from the wilderness, but between time and effort, we could be needlessly exhausting ourselves. You ought to save your strength for what comes after dinner, Rosa.”

“Let’s see if we can find ourselves something like a fruit basket or some assorted vegetables. I hear ponies have a kind of meal where they mix different plants together with other kinds of food. I’ve never tasted it before, but I heard they could be delicious. It’ll also be close enough to that mixture of plants we normally have, just with different plants.”

"Very well. Although the meal you mention, described about 80% of the standard equine diet. It could be everything from a salad, to a stew. But we will see. If I can get some more details, perhaps I can narrow it down."

"Then I buy things, yes?"

"I'm sorry we continue to rely on you for this, Omen. I swear, once I have gotten to the point, where I get paid for my efforts, I shall repay you every bit I have used."

"Why? I do not need them. Ponies use it for food. Homes. Things. I do not need that. Better to use on you, before I digest instead, yes?"

Omen really didn't care what her bits were being spend on. Right now, they were just taking up space in one of her stomachs, and that was it. She didn't need the things in life, that ponies had those for, and Shrimp likely didn't either, most of the time. So why not spend it on those she liked? Even she could understand the logic, in it being better, than letting it go to waste.

Wandering along, there were one thing which might change their direction actually, now that Rosa thought of it. A detour, from the regular, main market.

"The meal, is it in need of vegetables only, or is meat wanted? Ponies are not keen on the sale of it, but business is business, so there is a section for those dealing with meat and fish, a good deal away from the regular market. Inconvenient, but it beats the old ban there used to be on the sale, before the monarchy started to understand the helpful trade deals one could have, by allowing vendors catering to others in town. Came in handy too, once Princess Twilight began to make contact with others."

If they wished for meat, they'd have to turn around, and move almost straight in the other direction. Not for too long really, and they'd smell it before they got there. The smell of fish had gotten rather thick this time of day, if you were in the wrong direction of the market. Those who lived in this area though, tended to not really care all that much. Some even found it comforting, as they were either non-ponies, or used to live at the sea.

A fair sized meat market. Fish could go on display, in many forms, whilst actual meat, like boar, had to be prepared from places like tents, of buildings, to avoid accidental exposure. Some just got around it, by making use of curtains in some places. The finished product were fine to have around though, just like the fish. Dozens and dozens of options either way, with the majority of the sellers here, being griffons. Especially the fish vendors. They knew their stuff well, and as natural hunters, were good at catching fish.

If not, they could move on to the far larger, more varied greens market.

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

 

@Kujamih

Shark were nodding enthusiastically, when he asked if he were doing well. Whilst not exactly right, he were doing a great effort for a pony. She'd try to practice the *kissing* ting, that he were so fond of too then. When he were willing to try to learn her signs of affection, why shouldn't she do the same about his cultural displays? Besides, his version didn't threaten to draw blood, so maybe it were better.

"The School of Friendship? Peh. Yeah, that boring place is here alright. Or well, not here, but in town. It's hard to miss too. It's pretty big.

I'd think it more fun if you tried to go to clown school, but hey, your life and all, yeah? It'll probably teach you pony things better. Just remember Shark: What are ponies?"

"Friends!"

"And what don't you do to friends?"

"Eat them."

"Atta mare. You two are gonna do great. Hehe. And you're gonna confuse the hay out of the princess and her friends too. Actually, friendship school sounds great. You should go."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-04-03 at 12:03 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I figured you'd be on a positive mood." Ruby remarked in the same style as when she interacted with Spicy before, not that it was much different from anyone else. She didn't actually remember if the wake passing's had been mentioned before since she hadn't been fully listening, but it did not surprise her at all and seemed somewhat familiar idea regarding the old pony. "I don't think many would be willing to buy such a stubborn bird." she joked, before going to the topic itself "This is Leviathan, my bodyguard, don't let the size fool you, looks can be deceiving."  "And this one, we call him Charir, don't try to speak to him, he doesn't understand a word you say, in business terms, he's a package I'm transporting."

"Enchanting company. Nice meeting you folks.

And you'd be surprised who'd pay for Marley. Some specific folks in fact, would frankly give more than I'd see in years, for a chance at wringing his neck."

"Eh, didn't seem worth the hassle. And yeah, I'm watching Ruby. Don't try something, or you're going under the weather."

She'd rise a hand, palm up, and would showcase a bit of weather magic. A small cloud, some snow, a miniature, hand-sized hurricane, some lighting- The whole shebang. Didn't seem to cause any sort of worry from Spicy. Her mood were way too good right now, for her to really get beaten down that easily. Sides, this right here, were mighty cool.

"Now ain't that something? Rarely seeing magic-using dragons, and not one that varies like this. And no rings for it either."

"R-Rings... Le Perinne?"

This caused Leviathan to take a step back, seemingly distressed.

"Hey hey hey, relaaax, aight? I ain't one on her payroll. Just seen the old dragon and her cult here and there, over the years. Don't worry yourself."

"Good. I know... Stories."

"Go figure. Anyway, just made the comparison. That trick right there were some good stuff. Seriously though, where's Marley?"

She more or less ignored CHarir. If he didn't get what she were saying, what were the point in wasting her zingers on him? Sides, he was off limit it sounded like, so she'd best not try something regardless.

On 2022-04-03 at 12:03 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Then for Marley, well, for start, we were actually coming here with him, but something came up, which was important enough that he promised his paycheck just so that I'd deliver the message..." she though for a moment to remember the exact words "...He will be taking undisclosed amount of personal time, and you can open some folder he told you to not open if you value your life." she then stated with tone like one reading from a script "And for what happened exactly, since I don't know what that folder will have, in short, a magical, seemingly religious fox attacked our train and after some very cult like discussion took Marley with it, voluntarily may I add, he was not taken against his will." she saw no reason to not tell that, since that much detail would be something someone that just happened to see it from outside the train would also have. 

"...Bugger me, and here I thought they'd never get him to go back. Damnit. Guess I owe Scarcity a bottle of fine malt then. That stuff ain't cheap, ya know."

"Wait, you knew about his thing? From the sound of it, you were told not to tamper with his folder."

"Yeah, and I didn't. Doesn't mean I couldn't ask around. Some griffon popping in from nowhere, with a flimsy backstory, looking for work? Outta worry it's a guard, y'know. Truth were way funnier than that though. Actually planned to add a photo of his poster in his next birthday bonus, just to have a great big laugh. Figured we'd be best buds enough by now, and all that."

"Can you fill in what the heck it was all about then?"

"Vigilante group fro out east. Heroes, but without the whole *beloved by everypony* deal. Fair few think they're too violent in their methods, and causing more issues than they solve. Fair other bunch who idolizes them. Marley were pretty much the muscle of 'em, while the one you were talking off, sounds like Ashta. Some sorta transcendent monk, with complete body and inner spirit mastery. Mix that sort, with how absurdly magical the kitsune are, and you get a ight big problem, if you're on her bad side. Same with Marley really. Stories I heard, when he had those amulets on, about the stuff he'd be able to smash? Good stuff.

Probably a fair bit of exaggeration. You know how it goes. Anyway, if he let that slip, I'm sure your word on this is right. I'll make sure you get his pay then. Just have to get the slip to get outta here first, and we can go count up coins. Sounds good?

Now, level with me here. How did you folks meet? Sounds like you did some side work while I was down for the count. Any details, or are ya just gonna slip me a *None of your beeswax* on this?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Hmm, unfortunate then. Crow could feel there were something, but wasn't sure what. It  wasn't sure of details though, and whilst Scarecrow were one it understood, didn't feel massively, it still figured perhaps he had some sort of greater share in this, that'd help him get it more. Oh well, seems not. Nothing to do but shrug its wings, and wait to see what time would bring. If something were stirring now, then maybe in a few weeks, there'd be more tangible things to notice. Long as it wasn't the two of them merging. It would object heavily to that.

"Good to know it is not only me, who feels today have had much to it. Yet now, it seems we finally find ourselves with a moment of respite. I find there are still things we could observe, like the lycan's apparent stomping grounds, or the bat pony you mentioned, yet perhaps... Perhaps it would be best, to get a measure of calm first.

Perhaps, you would like to see my personal grove? It is not something I would show to just everyone, yet I trust you. I don't think you would try and desecrate my sanctum, nor bring those with cruelty in mind, towards me.

The innermost sanctum are important to me. If something were to happen... It would be where I would regrow, lest I were stricken down there. The one place of safety I need, where one cannot simply get with ease. Yet I'd be happy to show you, lest you have other plans. I wish not to take all your time."

She had taken much of it as it were, and wished to take all, in case he had other things he wished to do. They both had plentiful years ahead of the as it were, it seemed. Even if it were only one of them, who enjoyed being alive, by all accounts.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-04-03 at 12:03 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"That's Ponyville for you, don't know what it is about this town, but it seems to attract all the weirdest and most dangerous beings and events to it, haven't seen anything similar anywhere else." Having heard about it few times now, Trox and Sheska also wondered about the town's tendency to be attacked "Could be it's some kind of magical concentration point, studies in our world show that magic isn't evenly spread, just a guess though." he could have talked more about it, but they had something else to worry about at the moment.

"You posit it is laying on a leyline? Hmm... Quite possible. I am not one to feel out magic, nor study those things, but it could well be. I hear those place can become odd, and the more lines that are connected to that point, the worse it can get. Could also have something to do with your princess. Those alicorns seems to draw in troubles likes moths to a flame."

That could also just be because those who wanted to take over things, were drawn to strike at those with power, but ergh... There were some variation

On 2022-04-03 at 12:03 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Everyone would be observing the surrounding in the same way as previously, and again it would be Sear to speak up "This is only a logical reasoning based on nothing I can see, but maybe they went there." she pointed towards the elderly pony residential area "The unfinished building, while it would be a typical choice, there isn't really anyone to harm, and there..." she pointed towards the clothing district "...is bit too busy to do something unnoticed" "Meanwhile there..." again the residential area "...I think most of the population is elderly, they are an easy target, and there could be financial motivation if it's a relative." all the kobolds looked at Sear, not because they disagreed with her, but because the concept of killing one's own parent for money was so horrendous to community species like them that they hadn't even though about it as an option

"Logically speaking, it would make sense. I will see what I can find."

A large area to cover, so she needed her focus. Slowly then, she'd move down the path, and scan in what she could read, from the area around her. Quite a few thoughts there to go by. Most of them dull and dreary, if not scattered and confusing. She hated touching upon minds, that had mental issues. They were troubling to navigate, and the fact that nothing remained stable, meant she could not influence them for long, if at all. It was an annoying, chaotic state. Though she grasped that it wasn't like the ones who had it, were all too keen on it either.

Thoughts on grandfoals and such were also something she liked to avoid, as it reminded her of her own children, and how those who were left, were now part of Thorax's hive. She longed to see a thriving hive again, yet alas, she were denied that for now. She needed to prepare a suitable grotto for eggs first, then get Happy back, before she could work on getting in that direction. And then hope that the process, nor his mixed heritage, made either of them incompatible.

Mulling over that, she would finally perk her ears, and find something. A smidgeon really, but there were something familiar in the air. Thoughts going of a figure, looking around. Some residents getting nervous about him too. But still not a face. Merely a presence, and some concerned, elderly creatures. Yet it were something tangible.

"I have a few things that indicate the went this way. Urgh, so annoying. The only one who looked well at him, have such a muddled mind. There's no details. All I can make out, is that whomever it is, wore a blue flower in their mane. Others have picked up on something though. The air's tense. Some are nervous. Whomever it is, is somewhere here, and isn't going to stop.

I am not sure it is one searching for a specific pony either. The movements seems... Searching. The ones who took notice, are scattered around. We need to be cautious here. And I'll need some perspective."

Spreading her multiple layers of pale wings, Onache would flutter up into the air, and get a better look, over the surrounding area. It helped her to see a few things of note, which quickly brought her down to ground level.

"I found something. There's a house five down, where the door is wide open. East side, going around near a garden, I saw someone pass, with a blue flower in their mane. A green pony it seemed. And there seemed to be a stir towards the west, near one of the houses. Can't say what it were, but the reactions didn't seem positive. We'll need to divide and conquer. Who goes where? And make haste in your decision."

Onache would pick what wasn't dealt with. But she'd have the others go and pick an issue to investigate each too. They'd cover more ground like this.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-04-05 at 9:18 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Who are you calling, 'Past her prime'?" a familiar voice inquired from above the pair.  Casting one's gaze upward would reveal the pegasus gracefully fluttering down from the third floor.  Dressed in a forest green dress with bronzed, aged autumn leaf clips decorating her mane.  A pearl necklace and heavy evidence she had spent her own fair share of time in front of a vanity to elevate her already good looks.  "You're aging gracefully of course, mother, but what is the likely hood of you pulling off a Pluie Fouette these days?" she asked.  "How I miss my youth," the mother sighed, placing the back of her hood across her forehead in dramatic fashion.  "The size may seem a little big for a family of four, but through my work, the need to host gatherings was common place."

"A small issue like age shouldn't stop you. You're in peak form still, and barely reaching your half-point. All you need, is some body enhancing magic. A minor enchantment increasing both strength and dexterity a few percentages, should do wonders, without affecting you negatively, considering your physique. Hmm... Perhaps a little for stamina too, though that would be better via potion if it were. It takes practice to properly mix three or more together with any degree of success.

I can assure you though, it can work wonders. Before I were given seventy years back, I had to rely on a few myself, to get through the trials I were faced with. I'd offer the medallion, but it was attuned to me, as I were in my nineties. It would overwhelm, and have side effects.

...I apologize though, if it isn't my place to offer such things. I don't know if it holds interest. If it helps, it isn't stealing power from others. It just makes use of natural magic, to give a little boost. We're mostly farmers and scholars in Harrowmark, scraping by to do with what little we had, amidst monsters. We needed a little pick me up sometimes."

To them, enhancements like that, were akin to coffee, for an Equestria. It helped perk you up, though this were more efficient, as it did more than just make you feel more awake. Had to regulated correctly though, or it started to backfire, like adrenaline. If it held interest, she were sure they could figure something out for Dawns mother. If not, they were free to deny the offer, of course. It were but a suggestion. Even if she didn't know what sort of dance term they had used. Likely a move that took some energy.

"As I told Dawn just before too, you have a lovely home. There's almost room for a village in here. One should almost be here, so they had a chance to admire the matriarch of the place too. I see were Dawn gets her flair for drawing in ones eyes, and tendency to light up a room, comes from."

On 2022-04-05 at 9:18 AM, Rising Dusk said:

The sound of hoofs on hard wood clacked on the stairs of the third floor.  Trailing down and down the journey to the ground floor.  Rounding the last bit of stairs the nose maker came into view.  An older stallion.  Charcoal gray with a spackling of white spots here and there.  A lighter gray mane and thick bushing mustache that draped down on either side of his mouth to his chin.  His mane and mustache had begone to salt and pepper as he crept into older age.  The unicorn's horn was aglow in that same dark gray aura that was matched by the aura that enveloped the loose bow tie around his neck that attempted to complete the suit he'd been dressed in.  A pair of silver spectacles adored his snoot.  The bow tie folded and weaved, failing terribly to complete a bow.  "Confound this thing," the frustrated stallion exclaimed.  His voice was gruff, aged and worn from decades of talking in lectures in higher volume tones to ensure the back of his classes could hear him.  Each syllable causing his mustache to wavier a little against his puffs of breath from speaking.  Grace fluttered over to the stallion "Let me, dear," and with a few quick movements of her hoofs, tied his bow tie into a perfect fit. 

The same could not be said for the one that came next. A pony that seemed to fit the textbook definition of a teacher so hard, that it were almost a caricature. She would have thought this a costume almost, if she had not caught a vague glimpse earlier of him, as well as how much he reminded her of Rising. Despite the bushing mustache, and the age, there were a resemblance between them, as she looked at him. Not in the minor details per se, but just the overall tone. Whereas the mares of the family were dressed for center stage, both Rising and his father, seemed to prefer to simply be regular, and blend in. A few things that could stand out, like the impressive mustache on this stallion, but nothing near what the mares were going for.

"And I see where Rising's sense of simplicity, and functionality comes from. A compliment, I assure you. As there is something to be said for flair, so is there for the sense of straight forwardness.

Delightful to meet you, young man. My name is Amazon Lily. Wilderness Witch of Harrowmark. I take it you are the proud father of our savior, yes? My my, have you gotten yourself a good one here, Grace. He ages handsomely. Reminds me of my late husband, minus the mustache. Though it would have looked well on him."

Grace could relax. Lily were not interested in hitting on her husband. She were just admiring him, and giving him some compliments of her own. Nothing wrong with that, least she started to actually flirt. Which she wouldn't. He wasn't her type, even if he reminded her of her late husband. Too... Taken. Heh, as well as her not being too intrigued by teachers. She liked other interest areas than that, and after Twisted, didn't much care to be lectured on a daily basis again.

Edited April 12, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Light:....

Light would try and grab Sharks attention by booping her on her nose gently. 

" You only eat food shark. Friends are not food." 

"So  I guess that's a yes then Anomaly?"

He would then ask Cali if she'd like to join but...

" Hey Cali... I know your not gonna come with, but I'm just asking for the sake of it... Wanna come with us?."

" No." She immediately replied.

" I have better things to do here... So many..."

Light was a bit worried about Cali's condition. But it's Cali we're talking about..

".... Um okay... So beam us up Anomaly? I'd do it myself... But I don't have magic anymore..." 

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-04-06 at 6:07 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Very well. Although the meal you mention, described about 80% of the standard equine diet. It could be everything from a salad, to a stew. But we will see. If I can get some more details, perhaps I can narrow it down."

“Hmm... I could have sworn it was about one or two different types of food, but I suppose you’re right. I remember some of the ingredients though: spinach, tomatoes, and a kind of sprout. All of that wrapped in a thin kind of bread and served with a green fruit on the side. I don’t know if anyone could have that prepared in a short amount of time, but if that’s not possible, I’m sure we could go with something else. I still think a fruit basket would be nice, even if we don’t eat everything in it.”

“I also heard about a kind of dish, a salad, I think, that isn’t made with green vegetation. Some ponies called its main ingredient a ‘potato’ and it was easy to prepare. I wouldn’t know if that is true, but I’ll keep an eye out for that. Some stores have a section where that kind of stuff is already prepared. If we find something like that, we could consider getting some.”

“Only way to find out is if we go out and see for ourselves, right? I don’t mind meat, but the only thing we could consider familiar is fish, and I’m not even sure about it for now. Might just be me, but living in exile didn’t leave too many readily available food options, so it was just getting used to eating vegetation. Let’s see if we could find a market or maybe that map by the town square. I thought I saw something on it that could help.”

Although fish was a staple of longma diets, it isn’t exactly eaten regularly. The longma know they should only take what is enough and never more than that to let the local population recover. Small fry were also tossed back into the rivers if any were caught. The most prominent thing eaten by the longma are plants, the green and leafy ones to be precise. That and whatever fruits grew in the forest as long as they weren’t poisonous. Mushrooms of any kind were off-limits as well, as no one knew if they were safe, and none were brave enough to try. 

If there was a local market or deli, the siblings would try those locations first. They could get in, grab something interesting for dinner, and head off without too many problems. It’ll no doubt be simple, but the longma pretty much lived off simplicity. It’ll be a surprise if a whole banquet was prepared for their evening’s meal. 

On 2022-04-06 at 6:07 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I'm sorry we continue to rely on you for this, Omen. I swear, once I have gotten to the point, where I get paid for my efforts, I shall repay you every bit I have used."

"Why? I do not need them. Ponies use it for food. Homes. Things. I do not need that. Better to use on you, before I digest instead, yes?"

“You know, maybe you could hold on to those bits a little longer, Omen. Sen and I also have some bits, and we’re planning on spending them. It might not be much, but I think it’ll be enough to get us something nice for tonight's meal.”

“Oh, and if anyone wants to throw in something they’d like to eat, go right ahead. I think not making everything in tonight’s meal just vegetables would be a good idea. How about you, Rosa? Omen? Is there something you’d like to find while we’re out looking for food?”

There’d be about a good hour of time for exploring and shopping for food while the afternoon sun is setting, though the siblings aren’t aware if there are any night markets operating in the area. Even if there were, they’d preferably try to keep to their schedule so they could make it to dinner. It’d be interesting to see what the markets have to offer, and perhaps they’d deviate a little bit from their preferred tastes to try something new. 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

"If that's a big issue, I can just give you some magic. It's pretty easy. Just gotta tinker with you a teensie bit, and you'll have some. Up to you if you wanna try it though. Can't guarantee if it'll give you some minor mutations. Probably nothing major. That rarely happens with small stuff. And you know, implanting the magic gene in you? So easy, it's almost tedious. I just don't do it a lot, since I like natural power. Like Shark and her strength, yeah? I gave Princess a bit of magic, and that didn't go well, but eh. Can't win 'em all, right? You chose."

Now, far be it for Anomaly to say that she didn't like to mess with beings, and change them around a bit at times, against their will. But she could be nice too, and this here were a kind gesture. And really not beyond her. Her whole thing were biology, and the amount of creatures with magic bui8ld into their biology, were staggering. Especially equines. It wouldn't take much tinkering to activate the same sorta gene that a unicorn had, or some variation of pegasus magic. Hay, she could just as well just loosen the natural grip of his earth pony magic. That sorta thing tended to just get stuck naturally, and enhance their physique and connection to nature passively. There were a reason why earth ponies were generally stronger, had more stamina, and were great at farm work.

What she could do, were just untether it. Let him have more free control over this, and really amp up his power. Mostly his physical power, and he'd have to be cautious, to not end up getting downsides, from overextending too much, but he'd have a few tricks too. Though he'd have to agree first. Them was the rules, as she just made them up.

"If we're not going to the friendship school, then where are we going?"

Toasty got the gist that while the others had their crazy things to go and do, Cali and her, would have something else to do. Something involving the mare, getting control of her newfound powers, which seemed to involve some sorta anti-magic, but beyond that, she hadn't a clue. But the two of them were close now, yeah? So obviously, she'd make sure to go along with her new friend, and give her lots of companionship, and food. Drinks too. Had to make sure her friend didn't die of starvation and thirst. And who better for that, than a flying, magical toaster? No one, was the answer!

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

 

@Starforce

On 2022-04-06 at 2:19 AM, Magnolia said:

Magnolia follows along, clearly amazed by the rows and rows of shelves seen about the place. Like any Sparkle would she was almost entranced by all of them. If she had a way, she could perhaps spend days and days here of reading - but she has much she  should be doing, after all. "Well, that is quite astounding. 2 thousand years? That would surely be a way to entrance my sister here." she grinned at that. "Twilight would love this place, and I am sure you would have a lot to teach her here, wouldn't you?" she asked, her eyes looking to Alluria. 

"I have been told, that her heart yearns for knowledge. Yet I wonder if this is the sort of knowledge that she would accept, or if she would try something drastic. There have been those in the past, who thought this knowledge heresy, or simply could not accept that it were being done, for other ludicrous reasons. Insolent whelps, wanting to erase history, not befitting their world view. Hmph.

Those who came, were met with resistance. Blood have been spilled on the very bricks of this town, defending their ancestry. Even from nobility, arrogant and unwilling to accept refusal, have died here.

For her sake, I hope that she truly welcomes history and knowledge. Or if not that, then at least accept it exists. If she tries to erase what does not fit her world view... You must drag her out of this place, before she gets hurt. She may be an alicorn, but there are old, ingrained powers in this place. It is not wise to meddle with it."

On 2022-04-06 at 2:19 AM, Magnolia said:

Her eyes then settled upon the subject of conversation. "Makes me wonder what started the curse. Or why the curse even began. I would assume they went far and wide to find a cure - to no avail, unfortunately." Magnolia commented. 

"Whatever caused it, are unknown to them. When she finally found whom her father were, he had died. An orphan himself, given up, with an unremarkable life. Best they can guess, it is his father, or likely mother, who first started this, yet they have not found who that were yet. And without that, they cannot find the true origins of their curse, nor truly understand it. They have simply accepted it long ago, and made it a boon. It is not as if it can be removed anyway. It is far, far too ingrained in them by now, and it is rare that any of them seek a cure for their condition. With the general stance from the Macabre matriarch, for fifteen hundreds years now, to simply accept their lot in life.

Last one I knew of, who sought to cure their affliction, went missing thirty years ago. They don't even know if she's alive or dead. Or worse."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

17 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Hmm... I could have sworn it was about one or two different types of food, but I suppose you’re right. I remember some of the ingredients though: spinach, tomatoes, and a kind of sprout. All of that wrapped in a thin kind of bread and served with a green fruit on the side. I don’t know if anyone could have that prepared in a short amount of time, but if that’s not possible, I’m sure we could go with something else. I still think a fruit basket would be nice, even if we don’t eat everything in it.”

“I also heard about a kind of dish, a salad, I think, that isn’t made with green vegetation. Some ponies called its main ingredient a ‘potato’ and it was easy to prepare. I wouldn’t know if that is true, but I’ll keep an eye out for that. Some stores have a section where that kind of stuff is already prepared. If we find something like that, we could consider getting some.”

“Only way to find out is if we go out and see for ourselves, right? I don’t mind meat, but the only thing we could consider familiar is fish, and I’m not even sure about it for now. Might just be me, but living in exile didn’t leave too many readily available food options, so it was just getting used to eating vegetation. Let’s see if we could find a market or maybe that map by the town square. I thought I saw something on it that could help.”

"That narrows it some, yet there are still many options. The first one, sounding like some variation of a Spring Roll. Various veggies in a roll, then baked, cooked, or fried, or even served as is, in a warm wrap. The fruit on the side might be a regional choice, but I am not certain. Culinary cultures mixes and matches quite a lot between ponies, so one areas dish, can suddenly become a nationwide star. Even outside of the original nation.

The one with potatoes, might be a root vegetable mixture, of some sort. Also something one can prepare in several ways. I mostly see potatoes as fries, boiled as is, or when mixed up, in a stew. Potentially soup. Personally don't mind a good potato-based stew. Aaah, or a nice Borscht. Haven't had a properly made bowl of that in years, but it is magnificent, when done correctly. Lovely taste, and looks fairly inviting too. A nice, pink soup."

He would think back on the last time he ate this, as they wandered on to find the map again, to lead them towards the nearest, most usable place to get some vegetables. As they were not getting meat, that market could remain for itself today, but it were fine. They'd probably go and see it eventually, as there were still hopefully many, many days ahead of them here.

Regarding the kind of vendor they were looking for, the great market in Canterlot Square, were the best thing to go by, if one wanted variation, and a fair chance at the lowest prices, as the sellers there couldn't get too expensive, due to mostly having competition for what they sold. One of the reasons why a fair deal, had something unique with them, to kind of use as their hook, to lure in customers. If they could get them interested in one thing, they might be able to make a larger sale, based off of their full wants and needs.

If they wanted something local though, there were a produce market, here in the old town. It wasn't insanely popular, nor the most stacked in the world, as the owner used the large yard he had, as his farm land. Got him some fine variation, but not a ton of things, so it were fine by him, that he wasn't overrun. He also got some stuff in the wilderness, but this were more a hobby, than anything. he had his pension, so he were taken care of. This were mostly to keep busy, and get to know his neighbors. As an ex-con, he knew it best to give others a chance, instead of judging everypony needlessly.

17 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“You know, maybe you could hold on to those bits a little longer, Omen. Sen and I also have some bits, and we’re planning on spending them. It might not be much, but I think it’ll be enough to get us something nice for tonight's meal.”

“Oh, and if anyone wants to throw in something they’d like to eat, go right ahead. I think not making everything in tonight’s meal just vegetables would be a good idea. How about you, Rosa? Omen? Is there something you’d like to find while we’re out looking for food?”

There’d be about a good hour of time for exploring and shopping for food while the afternoon sun is setting, though the siblings aren’t aware if there are any night markets operating in the area. Even if there were, they’d preferably try to keep to their schedule so they could make it to dinner. It’d be interesting to see what the markets have to offer, and perhaps they’d deviate a little bit from their preferred tastes to try something new. 

"I assumed I were about to get prison food, so I'm frankly not fussed about what proper food we are eating. An orange might be nice, but that is hardly a priority."

"I eat fire."

"And everything else not alive, I've noted. I don't think you need to worry about Omen not eating dinner. You should be more worried she might consider the plates to be part of the meal."

"I am not supposed to eat those?"

"Case in point."

Regarding night markets, it were limited, but there were some, as Canterlot did have bat ponies living around too, and those were mostly night active. A real boon for the Night Guards on duty, in case they needed to get something to eat. And for the local Bat Ponies that were not on duty, of course. One way or another, Canterlot never truly slept. A great thing for Princess Luna too, as she could then see those who appreciated her night, so she didn't have an accidental relapse again.

If they went for the big market, there would be some stalls starting to close, and make room for the next ones, but there should still be more than enough options 'round to gather what they wanted. Including some who stood ready to wrap everything wanted, into a nice fruit basket. Some service tended to draw in customers as well, so having a quick hoof with this, were a grand boon.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

" I've had enough of magic..." Light doubtly looked at Anomaly.

"And  besides I've mastered my earth pony magic already, and was top notch at my military, that's why I was the one who was chosen as a candidate." Light proudly said.

" And if I got mutated, I believe it would be harder for us to enter the school."

Light now awaits their teleportation, unless Shark has something to do.

 

Meanwhile at Cali's side.

" Again, I would rather like to stay here and be accompanied by powerful beings who could stop me if I go rogue. I may be a proud pony, but I do not underestimate the monster that easily manipulated Light. I to might end up bending on its will.." Cali calmly replied to the flying toaster.

Edited April 7, 2022 by Kujamih

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-04-08 at 3:10 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I assumed I were about to get prison food, so I'm frankly not fussed about what proper food we are eating. An orange might be nice, but that is hardly a priority."

"I eat fire."

"And everything else not alive, I've noted. I don't think you need to worry about Omen not eating dinner. You should be more worried she might consider the plates to be part of the meal."

"I am not supposed to eat those?"

"Case in point."

“No prison food for you, Rosa. You’re not imprisoned, and you’ve got a nice dinner coming tonight. Let’s see if we can also find a nice stew for you while we’re out and about. We’ll add that to the list of food we’ll be keeping an eye out.”

“And Omen? I think it would be best if we don’t make things difficult for our hosts. Let’s not make them buy more tableware because you, umm… ate them. Maybe we’ll look for something spicy to satisfy that craving for fire. It’s not quite like fire, but it’ll be close to eating something like it.”

The old town market would be a good place to start, even with some vendors already turning in for the night. The large one out to have a lot of options for them. Canterlot square was the first stop, and the siblings would be keeping an eye out for some things they’d be interested in picking up. A fruit basket would serve as a nice gift that they could all indulge in, but there was also some vegetable rolls that Rosa mentioned. That might be nicer when they’re going for something with more variety. The basket out to be their first stop, but the siblings considered splitting up. One would go for the produce, while the other went around looking for foodstuffs already prepared. A grand market in Canterlot ought to be large enough to have someone selling those.

“Rosa? Omen? You want to split up two-and-two for a bit? I think we can cover more ground and see what else the market has to offer. Sister could start with the fruits while we head off and look for other stuff to buy.”

“Might make things a little easier on your pockets if we could have a bit more spending money. Omen, could we get a few more bits from you just in case we need a little extra?”

The spending money would just be enough for a few items, though any food items might need to be enough for about seven. Portions could also be smaller, but it would be ideal to have enough for everyone to share. The few stalls and vendors around that are still open seem to have a few bits of fruit to start, even if they aren’t quite as fresh as they were in the morning.

Fortunately, they didn’t have to look too hard or far to find a stall with a couple of fruits on sale. There was a mix of oranges, apples, bananas, and a few other options that the longma couldn’t identify. At the very least, those would be edible if they are put up for sale. Looks like they got something to work with for now.

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

On 2022-04-08 at 12:03 AM, Kujamih said:

" I've had enough of magic..." Light doubtly looked at Anomaly.

"And  besides I've mastered my earth pony magic already, and was top notch at my military, that's why I was the one who was chosen as a candidate." Light proudly said.

" And if I got mutated, I believe it would be harder for us to enter the school."

Light now awaits their teleportation, unless Shark has something to do.

"Your choice, buzzkill. But you're gonna have that from Shark anyway. I mean, you can't exactly play off that she's a regular pony in a costume. And no, I'm not gonna make her even more pony like. This here's just perfect, hehe. No reason to make her life go even more upside down."

"Then we go sch-ooooool. School. We go to school! All friends there, not food."

Shark would jump in place, then wander over next to Light, and rub the side of her face against his, in a gesture meant to express joy. Sorta like cats, but with less want to mark others with their smell.

"Me and mate, go to friend school."

She'd be ready to take off when he were, and they could then talk their case at the school properly. It'd be an... Experience, for sure, though Light likely had to do most of the convincing.

On 2022-04-08 at 12:03 AM, Kujamih said:

Meanwhile at Cali's side.

" Again, I would rather like to stay here and be accompanied by powerful beings who could stop me if I go rogue. I may be a proud pony, but I do not underestimate the monster that easily manipulated Light. I to might end up bending on its will.." Cali calmly replied to the flying toaster.

"Aaaaand This is where I step in.

You want to be 'round powerful beings, safe from being where you can hurt others, yeah? Then go with us to our summer home! It's fun. It's this nice little pocket dimension, in the old castle. Big forest area, with lots of space, and pretty much harmless creations. So far. I mean, unless the Root Goblins starts to go crazy for some reason. But they seem fine right now.

Come ooon. It'll be fun! I could even send you to my island instead. Way off the grid. Like, in the middle of a big ocean, and with turbulent waters for miles, kind of off the grid. I haven't had a surprise visitor for years. Hehe, man that unicorn were so confused, when her teleport spell crashed her there. She took really well to it though. She's still there actually. Really should go say hi soon. Make sure she's not trying to sell pebble insurance to the rocks again."

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

 

@Starforce

"I don't worry what you might do to her. It is this place she should be concerned about. I am by far not the oldest thing here, and not all which slumbers wakes with a mind, to listen to pleas. Yet I am loathe to mention them further, lest I stir them unintentionally.

...I am not one to beg anything of others, but I ask you to listen to me carefully: If I tell you to run, you grab her, and you do not look back. Do I make myself clear?"

Before saying this last sentence, Alluria would have looked away, starring at seemingly a random spot on the wall. As she had spoken again, she had turned to Magnolia, and looked her straight in the eyes. She wanted to make sure, that her descendant knew that she were not kidding. This were serious.

It might sound ominous, but the reality of what could happen, were far worse. Show respect to the history, and there were untold numbers of beings to learn from, dead or alive. Threaten their history, and there would be consequences. Potentially really bad ones, which is why Alluria gave this warning.

"Still, I doubt she would do something harsh to the history here. She wears the mantle, as a Princess of Friendship. I do not see her making many friends, if she does things such as that."

On 2022-04-08 at 1:17 AM, Magnolia said:

"If she's the princess, then what does that make me? Honestly never considered that." she shrugged.

As for the curse, "That is definitely quite a period of time to get used to something. I wonder what happened to the last one, but I suppose there are some things we'll just never know. Sometimes we aren't meant to know certain things." Magnolia commented. 

"It makes you related, and little more. Barring what I have heard, of the one in the Crystal Empire, the magic of alicorns does not pass on to others, nor affects family one had before the transformation. You are not a princess, nor is your brother a prince. You may have some grounds to apply for nobility status though. Yet without sufficient funds, you would not be generally accepted as one. It would be a token title at best.

Is there other things, that makes you wonder, or should we pass beyond the walls of this library? I know this town. I can't imagine one unfamiliar with it, does not have questions. I certainly had many in my day."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

21 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“No prison food for you, Rosa. You’re not imprisoned, and you’ve got a nice dinner coming tonight. Let’s see if we can also find a nice stew for you while we’re out and about. We’ll add that to the list of food we’ll be keeping an eye out.”

“And Omen? I think it would be best if we don’t make things difficult for our hosts. Let’s not make them buy more tableware because you, umm… ate them. Maybe we’ll look for something spicy to satisfy that craving for fire. It’s not quite like fire, but it’ll be close to eating something like it.”

"Stew takes time and effort, and are best served freshly made. If I show up with a bowl of stew, it would be rather rude towards their cooking, and I do not have allergies I can use as an excuse. I will eat what the rest of you will, and the stew will be for another time. Perhaps then. I can make one for us all to enjoy. And spice Omen's plate up with some Dragon Peppers. Please don't try her portion, if it comes to that. You will likely end up either on the toilet for four hours, or hospitalized."

"Are we-"

"No, we're still not talking about that. Please, let's just move on."

"Okay. Do not talk about toilets. Do not eat plates."

Simple enough orders for now, though she would hold to him, the promise that he'd show her book about toilets. The more he tried to avoid it, the more curious she just became.

21 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Rosa? Omen? You want to split up two-and-two for a bit? I think we can cover more ground and see what else the market has to offer. Sister could start with the fruits while we head off and look for other stuff to buy.”

“Might make things a little easier on your pockets if we could have a bit more spending money. Omen, could we get a few more bits from you just in case we need a little extra?”

"It sounds like a valid plan. I would suggest bringing Omen along with you, Lin, and then I shall wander with Sen. Omen is good at carrying things, so if you find a fruit basket, I trust that she would do well in helping you transport it. As for other things, I have a more varied knowledge of things, so perhaps I can better help you find that, Sen. However, that is simply my suggestion. I can wander with Omen too, if you would prefer."

While Rosa spoke, Omen would go over, and regurgitate fifty bits into Lin's pouch/hands. This would probably be a good deal worse, if she had spit, and they didn't come out dry and slightly warm, but to the few onlookers who stopped to look at them, it still seemed plenty odd.

Looking around, they could find many places still being open, here in the Canterlot Central Market. The Old Town market were mostly shut down now, with there not being a ton of vendors to begin with, and none having the sort of fruit baskets and the like, they were looking for. It was an area more focused on getting you food, not presents. Not this time of day, anyway.

Besides, the central market had something special: Bat ponies. More specifically, the sort of fruits some of them grew, and moon-grown fruits were rather interesting. Looked special, that was for sure, although not a lot of bat ponies did this sort of thing. Moon growing plants were hard work, and required some external source of magic. Earth Ponies had it easy, comparatively speaking. This also meant the produce were a little more expensive, but one tended to pay for the oddities more, than the normal things. Unless there were an Apple Family mark somewhere. That tended to get the price going up a bit more, than those around them.

There'd be some bat ponies starting to set up, and two of them, dealt in fruit. If they looked around, maybe they could find either of them, and see if they couldn't get a basket made.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Your choice, buzzkill. But you're gonna have that from Shark anyway. I mean, you can't exactly play off that she's a regular pony in a costume. And no, I'm not gonna make her even more pony like. This here's just perfect, hehe. No reason to make her life go even more upside down."

" Then we'd have double the power! Who says we can't have two knights?  Oh And if you dare touch Shark, I won't go easy on you. I can kill Draconicous with or without the Black shards." Light warned Anomaly 

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Me and mate, go to friend school."

He would cuddle back and enjoy her warmth.

" Then it's decided. The school of friendship would be the best choice for you Shark since lots of races go there. The chance of anyone being racist is lower. So thanks again Anomaly, we are ready to depart."

 

Cali's side.

" Ahh now that sounds like a plan." 

Cali would go near the side of the toaster and Anomalies creation. While Light would remain beside Shark, on the otherside.

.

She would turn and look at Light.

"I guess this is where we split ways for now. See you around Light, oh and watch YoUr bAcK tRaItOr...cough..cough... Sorry he's really pissed off and wanted to give you a parting word..."

Light would try to keep himself calm and show off a poker face, while sweating a bit. He was also a bit alarmed on Cali's situation.

" Oowwkay? Take care of yourself?... I hope we meet again old friend."

" Hah that is if your still alive." Cali jokingly said.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
"I knew it was unlikely you wouldn't check his background." Ruby commented quietly, she was mainly just thinking out loud, so she didn't expect a response of any kind. 

"So it was amulets that did that to him...anyway, in case you'd want to know, she got him to go with her by talking about some mother dying, didn't listen that well, her way of talking was....pretentious, and I don't personally like her kind, have had....an experience, with one." while her dislike was partly from just generally not liking magic, magical creatures were on whole another level on her list of dislikes, because for some reason after certain level of magicality creatures became insufferably annoying, she didn't know if magic caused change in personality or if certain personalities just were naturally better at magic, but that didn't really matter since the end result was the same. "But yes, sounds good, and honestly, the payment is just extra, since we were coming here anyway, I would have had no reason to not tell you regardless if he had promised payment or not." may be odd coming from a greedy creature like a dragon, but for her the way she gained things was part of the satisfaction of gain, and since this was probably the easiest and most boring way she had gotten profit, it was also the most meaningless. 

"The details on what we have been doing and how trust has been formed between us is indeed none of your business, all I'm going to say on that is that it's...mutual stake, so to speak, not too unlike to you and Marley as I understand it." "But for the meeting itself, I see no harm in telling you, funnily enough, our first interaction was when Leviathan tried to steal from me, too bad for her, it was this she tried to steal." she touched the necklace as she said 'this', regarding Charir she said nothing, since she assumed that calling him a package told Spicy enough to assume it was through whoever she was doing business with. Speaking of him, Charir just curiously looked around, now bit more comfortable, he left Leviathan's side enough to look at some things in the room from closer, nothing major, just looking at objects he didn't recognize, smelling substances and/or smells he didn't know what they were, and so on, maybe even poking something gently to see if it reacted to him. He did stay certain distance away from Spicy the whole time though, not getting close enough for either touch the other, though he did momentarily stop to smell the air around her, most likely smelling the alcohol. 

Ruby wondered if Spicy had done investigation into her while they had been separated, though it would have been odd if she hadn't, not that she was worried, since she hadn't just became Ruby Shine the pony without proper work. She did exist on paper for starters, obviously, since she couldn't own property if she didn't exist, but it was left slightly mysterious since there was only so much you could do. Basically, everything after her arrival to Ponyville matched up, there were few interactions with guards at first as her manipulation and thievery weren't as perfected in the start, but at most that was few small mentions of her getting caught stealing something relatively worthless, if such petty crimes were even written down anywhere, but before that it was very vague, as any information just stated that she came from outside the nation of Equestria from some small nameless village somewhere, and since places like that didn't have any systems to keep paperwork of citizens, it made only sense that any information about her ended there.

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

"Sure, lead the way, as stated before, I don't exactly have a schedule, having time until the end of time and all that, and you can trust me, as much as I lack empathy and other positive emotions, I also lack the capability for ill will, as I cannot feel the emotions that usually motivate such actions." Scarecrow stated, he was the definition of true neutral when it came to his emotional state, and his personal principles that he still remembered were luckily towards the good direction. "And it's not like I'd remember where the place is even if I suddenly became cruel." his tone indicated that it was an attempt at a joke, but since he was incapable of truly finding a joke funny, he was bad at making jokes. 

The bat could wait, he was more active at night anyways, so later they went, more likely they would actually be to be able to interact with him, besides, Scarecrow was curious to see the sanctum of nature, maybe in such a place even he could feel his lost connection to nature.

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

It was true that the princesses probably had something to do with it too, not only due to being the leaders of the nation, but due to power inviting challenge, but it didn't explain everything, wild creatures and magical events didn't have the concept of rulership or power like those trying to take over had, so the princesses most likely had no effect on that, there was also the fact that it was Ponyville and not Canterlot that was constantly being attacked, even those who didn't know about Twilight went there first many times.

This time it was the twins speaking, as they were the most familiar with strategies, having grown up in middle of a war, and thus came up with one very quickly "I'd say you and us..." Trox said, addressing Onache directly "...should go directly to the suspected pony, as you can see into their mind and in case things go bad, we are quite skilled in taking down ponies, even non-lethally..." he then pointed at Sear with Chega "...Meanwhile you should go see what the stir is about, and also check the open door to see if everything is aright there, you are known to the community so they trust you most of us, and you can fly, making it bit faster." Sheska cut in "Maybe I should go with Sear and Chega? You can handle yourself, especially combined with Onache's capabilities, but in case this is actually bad, there may be need for a healer." All the lizards seemed to agree, but they waited for Onache's input too. 

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-04-10 at 4:26 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It sounds like a valid plan. I would suggest bringing Omen along with you, Lin, and then I shall wander with Sen. Omen is good at carrying things, so if you find a fruit basket, I trust that she would do well in helping you transport it. As for other things, I have a more varied knowledge of things, so perhaps I can better help you find that, Sen. However, that is simply my suggestion. I can wander with Omen too, if you would prefer."

While Rosa spoke, Omen would go over, and regurgitate fifty bits into Lin's pouch/hands. This would probably be a good deal worse, if she had spit, and they didn't come out dry and slightly warm, but to the few onlookers who stopped to look at them, it still seemed plenty odd.

"Then it’s settled. I’ll go with Omen, and Sen will go with Rosa. We’ll get us a nice assortment of fruits to share, while you can look for something delicious for dinner. I won’t mind whatever you’re getting because that’ll be a surprise. Looks like we’re getting some odd looks now that the market is clearing up, but let’s just focus on what we have to do. See you in a bit?"

“Let’s meet up here at the entrance when we’re all done, all right?”

Sen and Lin pooled their accumulated bits from their time in exile and added them to the fifty bits Omen provided. It wasn’t exactly an impressive amount, but Sen had about 20 bits on him, while Lin had another 15. They would have had more, but Sen already spent some of the bits he had on other things long before today. Still, it might be more than enough. The siblings split the 80 bits evenly among themselves, while the remaining 5 bits were put away. Lin doubted that she’d need all this money for a fruit basket, but she never knew when it’ll come in handy.

From there, they’d split up with Lin looking for some fruit vendors. Some bat ponies were just about ready to open, but she’d keep an eye out for other ponies who were closing up shop to see if she could get a last-minute purchase. Those would be her priorities, and she’d start with the bat ponies to get an idea of what is available for purchase. 

“Hello. I’d like to buy some fruits from you, but I’m not sure about what you’ve got. Do you sell the usual fruits other ponies sell, or do bat ponies grow something more interesting?”

As for Sen, he’d wander around the mostly empty aisles and stalls for something interesting to eat. Some of the suggestions the group presented earlier were pretty delicious, but it didn’t look like anyone was selling vegetable rolls or stews at this time of day. Fortunately, there was one that had some foodstuffs out in the open, all looking like they were packed in little boxes and just about ready to go. A stall operated by a lone mare with her mane tied in a bun and wearing an apron, though it looked like she was trying to avoid eye contact with the longma and the thestral. Still, Sen walked up to have a look at what was there.

“Hi there. I couldn’t help but notice that you have some of this food packed in boxes. Could you tell me about them?”

“They’re puff pastries. Ones in the red box have spinach, while the white box has mushrooms. Both go for 5 bits a piece, but I don’t think you could afford them.”

“Why not? I’m sure I got enough-“

“Don’t play dumb. I saw what you and your companions were doing with your money, and frankly, I’ve got a reputation to uphold. I sell food, and if someone sees me taking regurgitated bits, I lose customers because that’s unsanitary. So unless you’ve got clean and sanitized bits on you, we aren’t doing business.”

Seemed like this mare’s real observant and prickly, and on top of her blunt and uptight response, she’s already made up her mind about dealing with Sen. A little ironic considering she still isn’t making eye contact with him or Rosa. A shame a compromise likely won’t be reached despite the food looking pretty good, and Sen felt a little dejected by their exchange so far, though he tried to not let it get to him. It looked like the rest of her equipment’s already packed and ready to go, and the remaining food was likely there to get some extra sales before calling it a day. Her attitude, however, seemed to indicate otherwise, at least for now. 

[Rising Dusk 27,537]

@Blitz Boom

"My my, magic sure is capable of a lot," the pegasus mused.  Of course their own domain over the weather and the clouds was nothing to scoff at, but it certainly didn't have de-aging properties.  Not that the thought of extending her life was ever anything to consider.  It wasn't all that big of a part in Equestrian culture as a whole.  Lily's explanation didn't have all the details, simply restoring one's strength and dexterity wasn't all the answers to aches and pains.  She didn't doubt Lily of course, it was a brief overview after all.  "An interesting offer to keep in mind, but I worry for the evolution of the art, should old mares like myself keep hold of the spot light too long, c'est le vie" she chuckled.  Innovation kept the art form from going stale, and Grace knew of the importance of passing on to the next generation, just as her mentor did for her.  Grace brought fresh performances to the art and her students will do the same in time.

With his bow tie affix and perfect to the neck portion of the suit, he gave it a momentary befuddled look on why that was so easy yet beyond him.  Finishing allowed for him to divert his attention to the visitor.  "Hohoho!  Magnificent!  The visitor from Harrowmark.  A pleasure, a pleasure.  Star Echo, at your service," the stallion greeted, his tone full of joy and mirth.  He swung his leg across his chest in a deep formal bow.  "Hohoho!  Father of the savior, you flatter me.  Very sharp, that son of mine.  Mind like a steel trap.  Can't forget a thing even if he tried.  Would have made a great teacher.  Rather quiet though.  Alas, Equestria had a different calling for him.  No less important, not at all.  Out there, catching those scoundrels, bringing them to justice.  Hohoho!  A very proud father I am, gifted with a radiant daughter and luminous son!  Hohoho!" Star Echo rambled on, full of passion and joy in his speech.  Dawn beamed at her mention and Grace looked all the more lost in his voice.  

Dawn took after her mother in most aspects, but Rising only met half way with his father.  Their father loved to talk, to weave the art of story and poetry every chance he got.  Simplistic and function over fashion to be sure.  However, Rising is a listener, their father a talker.  Really only non-talker of the family, but that might have been to off balance their dynamic.  Star Echo reached up to adjust his spectacles, "It's been many Moons since I've had to attend such a special event.  Oh the stories I'll get to share with my classes come the marrow.  A rather bright group I have this year.  Ready minds to expand their horizons~  Father dearest, tempus fugit," Dawn had to interrupt before another rant bubbled to the surface.  "Oh, yes.  Quite right, quite," he reigned himself in.  "Where is your brother?" Grace inquired.  Dawn drew in a breath and cast her gaze off into the negative space between her parents.  Slowly exhaling as she let the invisible tether between the twins tug at her mind like the smallest of threads.  "Canterlot... Castle... Stairs?" it was faint, much easier to use than when he was cast away to Harrowmark.  No overwhelming darkness to drown out an already thin thread.  The mare blinked her focus back into the positive space as a though occurred to her.  "We foalnapped him before he could grab his saddlebag... He doesn't have the Pocket Watch... He can't teleport back..." Dawn slapped her hoof against her forehead as she connected a few dots.  "I'll be right back..." she groaned.  Before she could be seen dragging her hoof down her face, she simply vanished.  No flash of rainbow light to mark her teleportation as she could instead finally opt to use That Place again.

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@Kujamih

On 2022-04-10 at 12:36 AM, Kujamih said:

" Then we'd have double the power! Who says we can't have two knights?  Oh And if you dare touch Shark, I won't go easy on you. I can kill Draconicous with or without the Black shards." Light warned Anomaly 

"Already died once. Didn't stick. And I have way more contingency plans now, than I did back then. So plrt!"

Omen pulled her tongue on him, clearly not worried about his hollow, pointless threat. Even if he could somehow kill a draconequus, he had to kill a looooot more, than what he were looking at now. Contingency plans, in his face!

On 2022-04-10 at 12:36 AM, Kujamih said:

He would cuddle back and enjoy her warmth.

" Then it's decided. The school of friendship would be the best choice for you Shark since lots of races go there. The chance of anyone being racist is lower. So thanks again Anomaly, we are ready to depart."

"Fine fine. Off you go then. See you around, turtledoves."

She'd wait until the groups were done with their touching farewells - including how Toasty would sprinkle them both with some lightly roasted breadcrumbs, for good luck - but once they were done, she'd snap her tail, and suddenly the two would be grabbed by vines, and fired off in a large, improtu slingshot, straight over the tree crowns, and towards Ponyville. Not an issue for Shark, soon as she got her bearings up high like this (she had so far stayed at near ground level), but Light might have some trouble. If it wasn't due to the increasing amount of inert pollen that began sprouting about on him, covering him rapidly in a thick skin of dandelion fluff. Would give a nice trail as he flew along, and soon as he'd hit a surface, it would take the impact damage for him. And explode in a large puff of white. But he'd be safe! That counted. Right? Probably yes.

On 2022-04-10 at 12:36 AM, Kujamih said:

She would turn and look at Light.

"I guess this is where we split ways for now. See you around Light, oh and watch YoUr bAcK tRaItOr...cough..cough... Sorry he's really pissed off and wanted to give you a parting word..."

Light would try to keep himself calm and show off a poker face, while sweating a bit. He was also a bit alarmed on Cali's situation.

" Oowwkay? Take care of yourself?... I hope we meet again old friend."

" Hah that is if your still alive." Cali jokingly said.

When that was done, Anomaly would scratch her pumpkin, and look at the assembled creatures.

"Oh, relax. I made sure they'll land safely. I don't wanna paint the town with ponies. Oooh, though paint in the shape of ponies, throwing themselves into walls? Now there's a thought... Hmm, maybe later.

Anyway, just follow along, and we'll get on to the castle. You pony types likes to ask questions, yeah? Then have your fun, while we move along. And Rose? Watch out for poachers."

The little pixie-like creature would flutter over, and look curiously at her mother.

"Why? It's not like they can hurt us."

"Nah, but that dryad said she doesn't like them, and you kids could use a pet. Two stones, with one bird."

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

 

@Starforce

"While I share certain sentiments about nobility, I have to accept some degree of association now, due to your siblings. As do you.

That being said, the majority have not gotten better since my time, from what I have heard. Had I the freedom, I would be pleased to go and teach them a lesson, yet that isn't my role to bear. Not as I see it now.

Moving beyond that however, we should gaze upon more of the town. As you have seen a theme with the residents, as you say it, I trust the sights of the objects, will not fill you with further dread then. If the guards did not, I can't imagine the rest will be too bad for you.

And yes, they will move, if Twilight arrives. I have told them before, to look out for her, as I assumed she'd visit on her own, eventually. A pity my own words were not enough for her."

Alluria would lead them out of the library, walking solidly on the ground as she did. Sure she could float, but she'd travel in eye-height of her descendant. It were the least she could do, as they wandered around. And what better place to go in her opinion, that to witness one of the great, floating plates, hovering calmly in the air, not far from the tower. Polished stone, inscribed with glowing runes, of ancient origins. Each three times the height of a pony, it were definitely a notable thing to see, and hard to miss.

"To start, these are less ominous than you may think. They are beacons. Signals to what wandering spirits might come into this area, that there are salvation to be found here. They're stationed in all the towns in this forest, and details where to go from there, to arrive here. Waystones I suppose, one might call them."

Magnolia could likely tell the runes inscribed into the stone, were magical in nature. An unusual sort of magic though. Arcane in nature, but having an additional school added to it. That of death. Spectral to be precise, rather than Necrotic. Just as the regular, known magic groups had various schools, so to did death, after all.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-04-10 at 11:24 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I knew it was unlikely you wouldn't check his background." Ruby commented quietly, she was mainly just thinking out loud, so she didn't expect a response of any kind. 

"Hey, what can I say? The sorta things I do, I gotta know I can trust my sidekick."

Spicy would shrug her shoulders. Seemed a natural assumption really. She had to put her life in his talons after all, so she better know who she were dealing with, best she could. And even then, she had still run him through the ringer, just to be sure.

On 2022-04-10 at 11:24 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"So it was amulets that did that to him...anyway, in case you'd want to know, she got him to go with her by talking about some mother dying, didn't listen that well, her way of talking was....pretentious, and I don't personally like her kind, have had....an experience, with one."

"Heh. Sounds like the usual response, to folks who've met with a playful kitsune before. Lil' troublemakers the lot of 'em, if you ask me, but usually harmless. Ain't judging you for not liking it though. I've had my run ins, and that's been some lessons in losing my cool more than once.

Anyway, that mother you weren't on about... Gonna assume that'd be Gra'loha. Only know her by name though. Far as the stories goes, she leads 'em, like her own lil' vigilante family, and she either gets hold of, or makes those trinkets they're using, to beef up further. Ain't got a single word on anypony seeing her though, so not even sure what she is. Tough luck on her condition though. Can't blame him for wanting to see her off proper. Ain't all that's as wretched as this ol' geezer were."

She pointed towards one of the pictures hung up, of the old mare that used to be in charge here, and rose a flask to it. Weren't gonna be a lot of sad tears at that funeral, that was for sure.

"Aaah. Fun fact though: Marley wasn't only strong 'cause of those amulets. But without 'em,. it certainly took the edge off."

On 2022-04-10 at 11:24 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"The details on what we have been doing and how trust has been formed between us is indeed none of your business, all I'm going to say on that is that it's...mutual stake, so to speak, not too unlike to you and Marley as I understand it." "But for the meeting itself, I see no harm in telling you, funnily enough, our first interaction was when Leviathan tried to steal from me, too bad for her, it was this she tried to steal."

Spicy had taken another sip, when this comment came up, and she nearly laughed the gulp up again. It thankfully got down instead though, and after getting the clog to pass down, she'd point towards Leviathan, and do something a little dumb perhaps, though it felt good.

"Hah! Somepony got owned."

A comment that'd earn her a small thunderbolt on the snout, which caused the hair in her mane to stand a bit on end, and her face contract briefly.

"Aight, aight. I deserved that one. Just saying, ain't good to try taking that thing. Pretty darn near thought she'd tear a limb off of me, and beat me with it, the first time I looked interested at it. Ain't wise trying to go between those two."

"Hmph. Minor misunderstanding, is all."

Was some things to smell to, and poke at. A rather fancy suite this were, so there were everything from nice chairs, to a bowl of fruit, some candy, a radio, a liquor closet - same place that Spicy had gotten her current bottle - some perfumes, and so on, and so forth. She'd offer the chonky fellah the rest of her bottle, when he started to smell around her, but she figured that the others wouldn't be too keen on it. Especially that lanky lass, with the weather magic.

As for the smell, it were rather earthy, with a sweet, floral overtone. Wouldn't smell anywhere near as bad, as your regular grog would.

As for investigating Ruby... Well, she had tried asking in a few places, but she had gotten nothing back. Seemed like the mare just either weren't there, or hadn't been remarkable, until relatively recently. had she the resources of Scarcity, she could investigate proper, but her own resources of folks, were far more limiting. Best she could tell, Ruby least weren't a cop, or one of the known ones, in the industry. Seemed safe enough.

"Anyway, you're a mare who likes to look at the cold, hard facts. Or cash, as it is now, hehe. I got his part back home. Soon as I'm proper done here, we'll go get you sorted. Sounds gravy?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"No matter how little you may feel, I will still always ask. You deserve to be shown the same respect, that I would show any other."

It were still weird to her, to think what it must be like, to feel nothing. She tried to ponder over it, but she never found an answer. How could one live, if you could not feel? She supposed, that was why he didn't want to... *sigh* poor creature. Hopefully there would be salvation to find for him.

She would lead the way further and further into the forest, going past rivers and countless trees. Thicker and thicker brush, as they seemingly just wandered forward, with no goal in mind.

Then eventually, they would come to a seemingly unpassable amount of vegetation. Thick vines and droopy trees, bushes and large flowers, making travelling forward, seemingly impossible. Lyriel would raise a hoof, and slowly move it from one side to another, which made the thick vegetation brush aside, giving them access to what laid behind.

Behind a meter of vegetation, they would find an open field, full of grass, fitting in size for a rather large house, if one wanted it. Yet that is not what were here. A river flowed through the sunny field, unobstructed by most vegetation from above, though a faint shimmer would tell that there were some magic in play here.

Critter scurried along the floor playing, whilst larger animals were either nibbling at the fauna, or resting comfortably. Odd pairs too, like a wolf and a bear, laying with a small herd of critters, and deer in their midst. And above song birds would joyfully sing along.

Most of whom were awake though, would halt their activities, when they noticed who had come in. Lyriel as such, would move first in, and motion towards the pair with her.

"Be at ease, my friends. These are not going to hurt you. All are of the forest, and in the heart, all shall be at peace."

In essence, no fighting were allowed. Nor hunting. Which were why various critters came here for some respite at times. Also, they liked the calm, soothing energy, that rolled through here. It were vibrant and calming, just like its inhabitant. Scarecrow likely couldn't feel it, but Crow did feel a little more relaxed, he had to admit.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Onache would agree with their assessment, mentioning that she had some rudimentary understanding of mending magic, so they'd be fine without Sheshka. And so, with everything settled, they could start to split up finally.

(rolled a dice for the result)

Onache's group would get other to the pony in question, as the equine rounded the corner, and stepped out on the grassy area, where a fair bit of terraces were to be seen to.

Onache would press forward in front, approaching the mare, and would then push into her head from a distance. Nothing were really seen, beyond a weak glow on her horn, butt he mare were not moving, and were seemingly utterly paralyzed. She were fine though. She weren't aware, as she were being scoured. It was more like... Spacing out for a bit. Onache knew how to cover her tracks, so she would get answers soon.

Would be about ten seconds, and the mare began moving again, over to the third terrace. There, she'd knock the window, and turn to face the apartment building, as an elderly stallion came out and opened the screen door, so they could have a chat. Seemed like there were nothing but happy feelings there.

"This isn't her. She's just here to visit her grandfather, to whom she have no ill will, whatsoever."

The others would find that the commotion sadly, were exactly what they had been looking for. An elderly couple laid on the ground, severely wounded, whilst a panicked caretaker were trying to patch their wounds as best she could. You could see another had rushed off, headed for the hospital, likelyt to get actual help, and a gurney. Which were needed. By the looks of things, both of these ponies had been stabbed multiple times on their porch, and slumped backwards, falling down on the grass. Both were unconscious, and judging by the wounds, they had been struck from behind. The weapon used, were nowhere to be seen, but a trail of blood did briefly lead in a westward direction, towards a shaded section of the buildings. It would contain an alley, where one could find a small pile of rapidly burning clothes, and a now half-melted knife. The fire would be rather intense, and smell of some kind of accelerant. As for who had set it? Likely moved on, and blended easily into the crowd, on the main street.

Back at the victims however, they were not doing well. The panicked unicorn could use some help to put pressure on their wounds, but she weren't magic user. She only had her earth pony skills to rely on, so she were limited in what she could do alone, and how much pressure to put on. If they helped, maybe they'd be able to save their lives.

As for the door? Red herring. Just a lock that wasn't all that reliable.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-04-11 at 2:16 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"Then it’s settled. I’ll go with Omen, and Sen will go with Rosa. We’ll get us a nice assortment of fruits to share, while you can look for something delicious for dinner. I won’t mind whatever you’re getting because that’ll be a surprise. Looks like we’re getting some odd looks now that the market is clearing up, but let’s just focus on what we have to do. See you in a bit?"

“Let’s meet up here at the entrance when we’re all done, all right?”

"Very well. Let us proceed with haste, and may our endeavors be fruitful."

"Yes. May we be full of fruit."

Omen didn't really get everything that Rosa said all the time. He used some large words and phrases in her opinion, but she were trying her best, and this way made sense to her. Might not be correct, but that was another matter entirely.

Regardless, they'd be splitting up, to get the task done quicker. One which seemed would go easier for one, than the other.

On 2022-04-11 at 2:16 AM, EQ_Theta said:

From there, they’d split up with Lin looking for some fruit vendors. Some bat ponies were just about ready to open, but she’d keep an eye out for other ponies who were closing up shop to see if she could get a last-minute purchase. Those would be her priorities, and she’d start with the bat ponies to get an idea of what is available for purchase. 

“Hello. I’d like to buy some fruits from you, but I’m not sure about what you’ve got. Do you sell the usual fruits other ponies sell, or do bat ponies grow something more interesting?”

The batpony nearest, were a young one. Barely twenty summers, and with short brown hair, though his tail reached far, and curled a few times to not lay on the ground all the time. As he spun around, they'd see into his bright, silvery eyes, that there were a friendly, hopeful equine there, to greet them to his little stand. Likely a youngling, that took pride in his work, and hoped it would pay off too.

"Hello and good evening. There's lots of vendors selling the usual stuff, but you definitely want to try something moongrown. I haven't set up right yet, but you can come look in the cart, and see what I mean. I think you'll love it."

He'd direct them to a cart to the side of the stand, that were currently covered. A humble one, but making your mark took time. But once he got started proper, he felt certain he'd be able to make a living like this. Despite what some others tended to tell him. City bats were so... Demeaning sometimes.

He'd pull out a few things, and lay them on the stand. The first being a glittery, silvery fruit, looking like a small comet. Though without craters, so perhaps more of a moonrock.

"This is a good one. Moon Plums are ripe with a floral scent, and the insides are silky smooth, with an incredibly fresh, natural sugar taste to it. If you ever tried nectar, it's not dissimilar, but this isn't liquid. You'd need to crack the shell first, but it's easy. It's kinda like a coconut. Just a sharp instrument up top, and you can crack it in half."

Next thing, would be a small clutch of multicolored berries. Though they looked a little like pearls, and the branch they were stuck to, seemed wispy and frail. Like it would vanish into dust, if you looked strangely at it.

"Northlight Grapes. They can be eaten piece by piece, to enjoy the variance in sweet and sour flavors, but I personally, like to mix them into a juice. It gives a healthy drink, with a whole rainbow of changing flavors, and it looks quite pleasing too."

Next were a... Well, it was weird, but it kinda looked like a three dimensional, hoof-sized star, with a long, thin string attached to the top. Looking in the cart, there were varied sized though, both smaller and bigger.

"Star Potatoes. I know, nightmare to peel, right? No worries there. They're best eaten with the peel on. Looks better that way too, though the shine on the surface, goes all the way through. I personally like to used them as baked potatoes. They're naturally more creamy and spicy than regular potatoes, so they go really well with some garlic butter."

"Do you have more spicy?"

"Yeah, I have a few things. What uh... What sort of thing are you looking for, ma'am?"

He were a little taken off guard by her wording, but... Customers were customers, right? And this were Canterlot. He were sure this were quasi-normal for this place. Somehow.

"I eat fire."

"That uh... Well, I guess maybe..."

He'd rummage around, then pull up a smaller sack, that he'd open up on the counter, to show about twenty beans. Bright pink, and with a sweet aroma wafting from the bag. Yet the more they laid in the moonlight, the redder they'd become, and the smell would go from sweet, to increasingly more peppery.

"Core Beans are an interesting bunch. If you leave them in the dark, you'll have a nice, sweet treat. If they're in sunlight, they'll grow bitter. Dip them in water for an hour, and they're salty. And as you can tell, moonlight makes them grow hotter, and spicier. It's something my grandfather mixed up, but it never caught on. He stopped making them years ago too, but I'm hoping times have changed. They're very nutritious. They just can't stand in the moonlight for more than an hour after they've gotten ripe, or they'll self ignite."

On 2022-04-11 at 2:16 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Hi there. I couldn’t help but notice that you have some of this food packed in boxes. Could you tell me about them?”

“They’re puff pastries. Ones in the red box have spinach, while the white box has mushrooms. Both go for 5 bits a piece, but I don’t think you could afford them.”

“Why not? I’m sure I got enough-“

“Don’t play dumb. I saw what you and your companions were doing with your money, and frankly, I’ve got a reputation to uphold. I sell food, and if someone sees me taking regurgitated bits, I lose customers because that’s unsanitary. So unless you’ve got clean and sanitized bits on you, we aren’t doing business.”

The experience for Sen and Rosa sadly, were far less enticing. The seller had given off red flags for Rosa, when she refused to look at them, and things did not get better, as she opened her muzzle, and began insulting them. This were the point where he would then step in, and speak to her directly. She would likely still not look at him, but his gaze bore right into her regardless, with a glare that spoke of how little he cared about her opinion, or feelings. Though his voice wasn't spiteful. It were collected and neutral, albeit somewhat cold.

"I could explain the facts of how these bits are more sanitary than several parts of your stand, but as it seems you will soon be busy dealing with things that you were unable to sell, I see no point in taking more of your time. Come Sen."

He did indirectly tell her that her attitude likely kept some customers at bay, but he didn't wish to spend more time around her. Frankly, wasting the breath he had on this, had been more than she deserved already.

(next does not happen, if Sen is not willing to leave the stand)

When they were far enough away from her, Rosa would halt, and face Sen.

"Don't take her words too harshly. Ponies such as that, are too focused on appearance, rather than logistics. I would not wish to encourage her gaining more profit as it were. Let us find someone with a more open mind, that seems willing to think further than presumptions.

That being said, if you would hand me the bits, please? We may as well get this done regardless."

If Sen would do that, Rosa would move a few steps to the side, pretend to sneeze, and drop the bits from Omen into a bucket of soap water that had been left behind. Someone washing their stand for the evening, currently dealing with a customer, and not knowing better.

Fishing them out were foals play, and he'd be done in a few dozen seconds, with just a wet hoof to show for it, and nothing else. And if the one with the bucket would come over, he'd apologize for the mess, and offer him a bit as an apology for messing with his clean water. Though he would not be interrupted, so that was a moot point, and he'd simply have a wet hoof to show for it. As well as some now definitely wet bits.

"If you would be so kind as to help me dry these, we can continue. Use this cloth, if you'd like."

He'd hoof over a piece of torn fabric. Half of what were left of his old face mask, that he figured he'd keep around, just in case. Never knew when you might need a bit of cloth, and with a new belt on, he had stuck it in one of the compartments.  The other half he had dropped, so he'd just dry them on the other half of this offered cloth. Shouldn't take long.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-04-12 at 7:06 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"My my, magic sure is capable of a lot," the pegasus mused.  Of course their own domain over the weather and the clouds was nothing to scoff at, but it certainly didn't have de-aging properties.  Not that the thought of extending her life was ever anything to consider.  It wasn't all that big of a part in Equestrian culture as a whole.  Lily's explanation didn't have all the details, simply restoring one's strength and dexterity wasn't all the answers to aches and pains.  She didn't doubt Lily of course, it was a brief overview after all.  "An interesting offer to keep in mind, but I worry for the evolution of the art, should old mares like myself keep hold of the spot light too long, c'est le vie" she chuckled.  Innovation kept the art form from going stale, and Grace knew of the importance of passing on to the next generation, just as her mentor did for her.  Grace brought fresh performances to the art and her students will do the same in time.

"Harrowmark oozes with old magic. It seeps into our beings, and we wish to harness it, to the best of our abilities. Especially the last centuries, there have been varied reasons to study, and become better at harnessing this, in various ways. From those thinking they could user it to fight the tyrant, to those wanting to impress him. Though most did it as they had little else to do. We couldn't evolve. He wouldn't have it, so study in what were allowed, were all that some had.

Still, even before him, we learned much. I have a feeling that a fair bit, is even foreign to your son and daughter. I'm sure we will have much for any curious mind to learn.

Yet to return to your worries, it isn't taking your years away. We do have magic that did that. Myself being on the receiving end of both the give and take, but I have warned you of this already. What I spoke of now, are just to enhance you, as you are. Think of it less as you clinging to glory, and more like being there, to teach the next generation a little longer, though more than mere words.

Besides, you're hardly old. What are you, in your fifties at worst? That's hardly a time to throw in the towel. I still taught others of proper moss farming, and helped against invading forces, well into my seventies. If those creaking old bones could still do work, a spry mare like yourself, should still have a lot of potential within her."

On 2022-04-12 at 7:06 AM, Rising Dusk said:

With his bow tie affix and perfect to the neck portion of the suit, he gave it a momentary befuddled look on why that was so easy yet beyond him.  Finishing allowed for him to divert his attention to the visitor.  "Hohoho!  Magnificent!  The visitor from Harrowmark.  A pleasure, a pleasure.  Star Echo, at your service," the stallion greeted, his tone full of joy and mirth.  He swung his leg across his chest in a deep formal bow.  "Hohoho!  Father of the savior, you flatter me.  Very sharp, that son of mine.  Mind like a steel trap.  Can't forget a thing even if he tried.  Would have made a great teacher.  Rather quiet though.  Alas, Equestria had a different calling for him.  No less important, not at all.  Out there, catching those scoundrels, bringing them to justice.  Hohoho!  A very proud father I am, gifted with a radiant daughter and luminous son!  Hohoho!" Star Echo rambled on, full of passion and joy in his speech.  Dawn beamed at her mention and Grace looked all the more lost in his voice.  

Dealing with the mother was all nice and well, but she did look forward to hearing how her husband would be.

And then he had to open his muzzle...

She wasn't sure what she expected really. As a teacher, it made sense he'd be a talkative sort, but she supposed she had assumed, that Rising had taken from him. Just like Dawn seemed to have from their mother. Yet Star Echo seemed to truly be a talkative, less than subdued sort. Rather jovial and jolly in nature even, which were an odd thing for her to see. She hadn't expected that from him, and she would admit, she still had a bit of an issue, getting used to such beamingly happy beings. The only times she tended to see that normally, were from Twisted, and if he were this pleased, that meant that somewhere, something horrible had happened.

Thankfully she'd get a few seconds to steel herself, as he talked and talked away. She supposed she wasn't innocent of that sin either though, so it were a little harsh to judge him for that.

"Your foals are both competent equines. I think they will mark themselves in more than one history book, in the years to come. Your son are about to mark himself in one, and in time, his statue shall stand among our greats. The first outsider to have gotten this honor, but one he have well deserved.

I'm sure your wife have said so already, but I just need to reiterate something quickly, before we move on to the pleasant talks, of the festival in his honor, we shall be attending.

Do not, under any circumstances. wander alone. If some tries to call you over, away from the guards, ignore them. It may be a trap. Most are happy about what your son did, but it isn't all of them. Don't put your trust in anyone, but the Queen's guard, and us. And don't be scared when you see some members of the guard. Walk into Harrowmark with an open mind.

Now then, beyond that, it seems you're dressed well for the occasion. Nothing too fancy, and limiting. That's good. You're all going to be likely given multiple questions, but I have no doubt that a well spoken pony like yourself, can answer them all.

To get to the better things, I hope you will all be ready for a dance, and have not filled your bellies. A feast shall happen, and a celebration is nothing, if not filled with dance and joy. As guests of honor, you needn't worry for any comfort that can be delivered, even if it isn't modern. I won't believe the queen would deny many requests of you, including seeing the royal theater, the great library, or introductions to notable beings within our the higher ranks of society."

On 2022-04-12 at 7:06 AM, Rising Dusk said:

Dawn took after her mother in most aspects, but Rising only met half way with his father.  Their father loved to talk, to weave the art of story and poetry every chance he got.  Simplistic and function over fashion to be sure.  However, Rising is a listener, their father a talker.  Really only non-talker of the family, but that might have been to off balance their dynamic.  Star Echo reached up to adjust his spectacles, "It's been many Moons since I've had to attend such a special event.  Oh the stories I'll get to share with my classes come the marrow.  A rather bright group I have this year.  Ready minds to expand their horizons~  Father dearest, tempus fugit," Dawn had to interrupt before another rant bubbled to the surface.  "Oh, yes.  Quite right, quite," he reigned himself in.  "Where is your brother?" Grace inquired.  Dawn drew in a breath and cast her gaze off into the negative space between her parents.  Slowly exhaling as she let the invisible tether between the twins tug at her mind like the smallest of threads.  "Canterlot... Castle... Stairs?" it was faint, much easier to use than when he was cast away to Harrowmark.  No overwhelming darkness to drown out an already thin thread.  The mare blinked her focus back into the positive space as a though occurred to her.  "We foalnapped him before he could grab his saddlebag... He doesn't have the Pocket Watch... He can't teleport back..." Dawn slapped her hoof against her forehead as she connected a few dots.  "I'll be right back..." she groaned.  Before she could be seen dragging her hoof down her face, she simply vanished.  No flash of rainbow light to mark her teleportation as she could instead finally opt to use That Place again.

She'd wait until they had all finished talking - a little rude how he were cut off though. Youth these days - and Dawn had left. She had wished to say something whilst she were there, yet there were others she could also say without her present, and it wasn't as if she had much time. Soon as Dawn had thought of her brother, she would be off. Probably better this way. Now they'd all be ready, for when the call would come. Long as it were not within the next 5-10 minutes.

Before Dawn left though, she did show a peculiar trait, to find her brother. Twin connections were a thing of course - she had seen so herself, several times - but this were rather advanced. Maybe it had something to do with the added connection of magic, and anti-magic they had? Could it enhance things? Would fit with how Dawn had said something earlier, regarding her brother knowing if she had a gentlecolt caller. Most peculiar... Nothing that couldn't be blocked though, she were sure. If one should though, were another matter entirely. Frankly, she figured it best if she didn't get further involved with that, than she already had.

"If I may indulge your previous comment, Star? If you wish to share stories with your class, you should bring some literature back with you. Not everything is death, though a few tomes of the nuances of death magic might be something they'd find fascinating. We have history, like anyone else. Our myths. Our recipes- There is much to learn, for a hungry mind. I'm sure there'd be tomes that we'd be happy to share, and you could be the first teacher in your land, to have information on our nation. Mayhap there are mentions here and there, but with how isolated we have been, it will not be anything recent. It seems fitting that a teacher, would be the first to possess something more current.

...Also, while your daughter could not see the beauty in them, I must insist that you go and see the sacred giant moths. It is a rare chance, not given to all, and I find myself somewhat dismayed thus far, in not having any who'd want to be presented with both a sight of creatures, long thought extinct, and a history lesson, by the high priestess herself. I do not know the full extend of their importance to the temples, but she does, and it would be story purged from our records. Twisted did not want her mentioned, so there's not much left, beyond what she can tell. Not as I am aware at least."

Call her stubborn, but she wanted someone to appreciate them. Poor creatures were but small, innocent things, awakened from a long slumber. They should be known about, and their purpose shared with someone. Even if she assumed it were not pleasant, it were without a doubt important, as it were both part of their history, and their religion.

"While we are waiting for your children to return though, perhaps I might ask something? What in honest, think you of all of this? Dawn sees this as an opportunity, and Rising seems reluctantly accepting, of the praise about to be showered upon him. But what of you? The dangers your son put himself in, for a nation he could simply have given two ponies to, and then never heard of them again? The battle he could have lost? The fact he is now seen as a hero? As his parents, surely you are more nervous than I have thus far seen? Or worried in some manner, of where you will be going?

I will not pass it along, if you say something you don't wish for them to hear. You have my word. As have you, that I will answer what I can, if you have questions. Even if the facts I can give, might not all be pleasing to hear."

Edited April 13, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

As Light was flung to the air, at first he paid it no mind until he realized that he was an ordinary earth pony again. He would panic a bit as to what the hell just happened.

He was expecting teleportation, but a draconicous wouldn't go for simple.

He'd notice that Shark wasn't worried at all, but then again she can fly.

" You'd catch me right Shark?" He worriedly asked.

But he did have training in military, and his cutie marks hidden perks can still save him... But it would still hurt alot.

When landing he would still instinctively try to lessen the impact on his landing which just ended up him rolling and landing in a cool pose.

" Phew.... The pollen was her plan then I suppose..."

He would look around and see that both of them have landed in ponyville. Where everything happens... The center of every plot of this entire universe.

It gives chills to Lights spine as he has this kind of knowledge.

" I'm... Quite happy yet scared being back here... Specially without my... Gulp... Powers ..."

He would then focus to Shark to check up on her if she was well too.

" You okay Swe... Shark? Did you land safely?" 

Edited April 13, 2022 by Kujamih