open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Rising Dusk

4 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Turning to stone is reserved for very dangerous creatures that require longer term reform," Rising explained.  The number of times it had been done is so few it was hardly considered anymore.  "Banishing to the Moon has only happened once, on a creature," he added before the opening of his sister's mouth could bring up Minty's mountain incident.  "It required the combination of Alicorn magics and the primordial power of Equestria's Elements of Harmony.  The resulting spell, is beyond words," Rising mentioned.  The most beautiful spell he'd ever seen, so complex and massive that even now with a permanent reference etched in his memory, he still hadn't fully unraveled it.  Not that many, if any, could relate.  Casters of their own spells hardly know what is actually weaved to make their magics happen.  "Tartarus is a special prison, when a normal prison just isn't enough.  Usually for those of the worst crimes," the detective finally concluded the stallion inquires.

"Alicorns, and primordial powers... My, Equestria and our magical scholars, are sure to have interesting talks, when they one day meet. It sounds as if there is much fascinating magic for them to learn about. Even if perhaps, not much of what we can offer in its stead, will be welcomed in your land before being thoroughly scrutinized.

Primordial powers, are not for mortals to wield in our land, without there being a cost. Twisted so thoroughly proved that. As does the high priestess, in her own way. I wonder what makes it work in your nation, yet I feel as if perhaps, your alicorns have something to do with that. There is dreadfully little to read about with them, even in our secret library, but I can imagine them being powerful enough, to harness such raw magic safely.

As for the punishments... I can imagine the third being for those, who do not wish to reform+ Yet I dread what kind of place it might be, that is seen as worse then being imprisoned upon the moon, or turned to stone. It must be quite the dreadful place, yet sadly necessary, for those unwilling to listen.

Much to learn indeed."

4 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"I look forward to a second first impression from Harrowmark," Rising agreed, with a smile.  He held no grudge or hate for the country in particular.  His quick visit in the little village after his battle with Twisted was pleasant enough and a much better look.  Thus resulting in his mixed opinion.  The current visit was going well so far, if he did say so himself.

The prince did not answer this, but his smile would become a little more pleased. He desperately wanted for this, to be a good experience for the detective. Both because he deserved to see the best they had to offer, and because of the longer term prospects. Surely as the one having spend most time here, their regents would ask him, to update them on what their country were like. Had he good to say, it would work well for them, when the princesses would assert whatever or not to visit them, for further diplomatic reasons.

Mother thought more of how it would all appear upon their own countrymen, but Necrotic knew that it were more far reaching than that. It were not just them, that needed to be in consideration anymore, and thus, it were important to leave a good impression. That said, the good impression, should not shield Rising and his dear family, from the reality of their country either. Being presentable were good, but being deceptive, would be problematic in its own right. Thus, Necrotic hoped that during all of this, they would become properly educated, in what Harrowmark were, what the heart of their country were, and understand what aspects of their culture, which might seem abhorrent to their own. Hopefully, the princesses would understand the warmth and compassion that drove them, rather than the bleak dread, that one might mistake Harrowmark for, on the surface.

4 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Oh, I assure you... Socialite and Broker are not exclusive," the mare chuckled sweetly.   "My work makes me quite sociable.  I rub elbows with the highest of our society.  I'm sure I'll be called upon to offer my services when our countries get full swing into their exchanges," granted she was already called upon, by herself, to take the reins in Equestria's dealings in Harrowmark.  "I look forward to working with any vendors you can recommend to help smooth this cultural exchange between our two lands," Dawn smiled brightly.

"And I shall look forward to spending more time with you, in the yet unwritten future, to ensure that your words will reach the right ears. Some Harrowish denizens, can be stubborn towards outsiders at first. In a matter this grand. Perhaps even finding a lack of trust. Yet the name of Sir Dusk, and my assurances, should make most willing to listen. I have full confidence then, that your words shall convince them in full afterwards, Miss Dawn.

Considering the texture of your clothing, I can think of at least one whom must be included. Clean Cut is an... Intimidating presence to some, yet their word carries great weight, in the clothing industry. If it would gain us access to trade, involving brand new, better fabric, opening up for the chance to offer a challenge in designs, they would certainly be intrigued. Though when time comes, I would perhaps suggest to bring a few examples more. I am not disparaging your current dress, of course. It is quite lovely. I merely mean that the more they see, the more intrigued they would be. From the fanciful, to the practical."

4 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

Their continued dive into getting to know each other though was cut short when the group bumped into Thistle.  Rising had seen some of the change during his short view through the mirror, but seeing it first hoof was quite the difference.  The smaller specter pony had become the size of Minty and Princess Celestia.  Now sporting wings and antenna that weren't there before, and she lost her glasses.  Rising looked up at his partner in crime against the dark wizard with a smirk, "You seem taller, than I remember."  "High Priestess Thistle, my family.  My father Star Echo, my mother Soaring Grace and my twin sister Setting Dawn.  Family, my first friend in Harrowmark, High Priestess Thistle,"   the detective introduced, each bowing their respective greetings.

When they were all done bowing - including Prince Necrotic - the high priestess would respectfully bow her neck towards them in kind.

"𝕀 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟, 𝕥𝕠 ℍ𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕠𝕨𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕜."

Someone in the room next to her, would open the door, and move towards her. A mare, sporting a rough linen, brown robe, carrying a stone urn on her back, that were sealed shut with a cork. Nothing magical about this one though, and it would be a short visit. When she saw who were there, and how the priestess glared back at her, she would bow, and wander back, before closing the door once more. Her duties could wait til later.

"𝕐𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕤𝕠𝕟 𝕚𝕤 𝕒 𝕔𝕒𝕡𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕚𝕠𝕟. 𝕀 𝕠𝕨𝕖 𝕙𝕚𝕞 𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕝𝕪, 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕖 𝕒 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕒𝕘𝕒𝕚𝕟, 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕪 𝕘𝕠𝕕𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕗𝕦𝕝𝕝, 𝕒𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕒𝕤 𝕝𝕚𝕓𝕖𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕪 𝕙𝕠𝕞𝕖. 𝔼𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕖𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕚𝕞, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕓𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕚𝕞 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕒𝕗𝕖𝕥𝕪, 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕖𝕟𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙, 𝕥𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕡𝕒𝕪 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕙𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕕𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕦𝕤. 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕀 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟, 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕓𝕖 𝕒 𝕤𝕞𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕨𝕒𝕪, 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕨 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟.

𝔸𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕘𝕚𝕗𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕤𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕝, ℝ𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘: ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟, 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖𝕤 𝕒 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕍𝕚𝕫'𝕟𝕒𝕪. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕤𝕨𝕖𝕣 𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕤 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕣𝕠𝕠𝕞𝕤 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖. 𝔽𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕝𝕖𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕝𝕠𝕨. 𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕘𝕠𝕖𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕝𝕝. 𝕀 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕋𝕨𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕, 𝕒𝕤 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕗𝕖𝕨 𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕖𝕤, 𝕤𝕠 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥, 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕠𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕣."

She'd walk down the hallway, then halted, and pushed her hoof against the wall to their left. An incantation would be whispered, sounding like the fluttering of wings, and from her hoof, would spring a silvery pattern, of a large moth upon the wall. When it had finished manifesting, a clicking sound were heard, and the wall would slowly slide to the side. It revealed a hallway without light, nor pictures, or carpets. But it were dust free. Others had been there, to clean already. And they needn't worry about light. It took little effort for her, to illuminate, and work as a radiating light, to guide them on.

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

 

 @Skitty Skittles

"Yes, certainly. Managed to have enough time to water the flowers, and then go and update the foals about their pictures. Tomorrow will be a ah, interesting day for them. And again, sorry for being a ah, little bit late. Time simply ran away from me.

In any case, it is ah, good to hear that your walk went well."

He'd take a sip of tea, trying to figure out something to say here. This were not his usual situation, so he were a bit in the deep end, one might say.

"So... You ah, mentioned savings, yes? Is there something in particular you're saving up for, or are you preparing for a ah, rainy day?"

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

 

@Kujamih

"This is the nurses office. Please put down Light, Shark.  So you can walk in there."

Shark would flutter down, and put Light back on solid ground for now, before landing herself. The door to the nurses office would open shortly after, and a young griffon, with some freshly applies gauze to his right front leg, would show up. He'd look at the assembled group, then just close his beak, turn, and move away. He did not want to be part of whatever this were.

"Another already? Come in then."

The voice from inside were cheery and vibrant, well fitting the creature they'd see in there, when they passed the entrance, into the small doctor's office. Well, it had room for a desk, and two separate beds, as well as some walking room, so it wasn't That small, but it were what she had to work with.

The one in question, running this? A mare, with a pale coat, wearing a nurses outfit. She however, also had incredibly vibrant, multicolored hair, in her main and tail, going from dark at the base, to various neon colors. She had several piercings as well, and a dark ink tattoo down her front right leg, looking like a skull on fire, being chased by a guitar.

She had dark makeup around the eyes, a spiked collar, and some spiked bands down her front right, and back left legs as well.

"Oh? New students. Getting the tour I'm guessing? Well hello there then. I'm Doctor Needlepoint. That's right, Doctor. Graduated from nurse and all, and the princess knew just who to call on, to get it running here, heh."

"Uuuuh. Pony in many color. Pretty."

"Hey, tha- Holy manure! It's you! I saw you eat a frog creature in the street the other day! That was totally awesome. There was just goo spraying everywhere."

The doctor sure seemed to not mind Shar at all. In fact, might be a little impressed, if that were the right word. A bit of an unusual sort, but long as she could get the job done, she were fine for this diverse school, right?

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

 

@-Solstice-

Alluria would follow, whilst Soul would lead the way. They had some guest rooms in town, just in case something happened, so for the time being, they could use one of those. They weren't meant for long term habitation, but they'd deal with things, one step at a time here.

Souls  did halt momentarily, as he saw the vessel move again, butt he smug smile on the vessel's face, told him who were there. As such, he'd close the door. She could wait until later, when he had time.

"Believe in your friend, descendant. Things are hard for her now, but with closure, she can at least begin to move on, and find purpose once more.

I assure you, I will personally speak with Madamme Macabre, and have your trial postponed until you're both ready. Though it might end up, being mostly you who will need to go through them. There are certain things I see, that might make it so that Zeehva would be handled with more leniency."

She didn't need to look, to feel the stink-eye that Soul would be sending her now. A non-verbal warning, that were quite effective. She would give him that.

"I speak of her position as a Zebrican-taught alchemist. There are value in such a skill, for the family."

"...Correct."

Seemed he had been expecting something else. Regardless, their walk would take them back down the tower, down to the main floor, and then down into the basement. They'd open one of six doors down there, to reveal a room, with a large bed, a night stand, a light in the ceiling, and a bookcase, with a few common literature books in. There were also a small box, in which they'd find bottled water, and rations. Nothing majorly tasty, but again, not meant for long term occupation.

"The room were cleaned a week or so ago, and have not been occupied in a while. The grates you can see in the top corners, make sure that fresh air gets circulated down here, and there are some things to eat and drink in the box. If you have need of a rest room, or a shower, those are in the room left to yours. The warm water gets spend quickly though, far as I am aware, so keep that in mind.

If there is nothing else, we'll leave you to rest."

The bed were large enough, for the two of them to share it, without having to be in direct contact at all. If that were Magnolia's want, that were.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

22 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“You really did that, huh? Go into her realm and see what was on the other side? One of these days, you’ll have to tell me about it! And, if it is not too much trouble, please go ahead and ask your Mother, Miss Omen. I understand if it’ll take time, and I am in no rush. Whenever it is comfortable for you to do so.”

“You really are excited by this. Sounds like you want to explore!”

“Yes, but I am a little scared. It’s hard to imagine just what could be on the other side of Miss Omen’s gates, and that fear puts me a little on edge. After what I saw earlier, I may want to curb my enthusiasm a bit. But, maybe we can continue this later? Looks like father and Mr. Rosa are having a serious talk right now.”

"I will ask mother, later."

It seemed like it was time to move on, and do something else, so she'd follow them, where they'd go, and just listen and observe in silence for now. Maybe there were something to learn. For now, she had something to remember at least. When there were time, go back, and talk to Mother. See if she wanted to see a member of Sen and Lin's family. Might be it wasn't by blood, but then, neither were Sen, and she still considered him family, so it were probably okay, yes? If not, then she would know at least, and could tell them.

It were like Mother said: Questions existed to be answered. Not something Discord had agreed with though. He thought life were best, if it had some mystery, and were unpredictable, instead of everything being understood. Omen really weren't sure whom of them were right, since sometimes, it seemed like one were right, over the other on this. Maybe the answer were somewhere in the middle? If so, she did not know for sure, how she would find the balance. Life were sadly very complicated, and hard to understand.

22 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“The dryads sound like wonderful creatures, the kind that has a serene kind of grace surrounding them. They might fit in well, but I fear for their safety if they aren’t left alone. The longma haven’t run into these ‘evergrown’ since I was still around, and their use of magic wouldn’t sit well with the longma. If someone encountered one, news would spread quickly, and maybe you’d have to play the role of ambassador to ensure no one does anything stupid. The same might not go for bugbears. This is the first time I’m hearing about them, and with the way you make them out to be, they sound very dangerous. Kind of strange how their blood is a fertilizer though… If you’re going to find yourself looking for one or just keeping yourself protected, you may want to hold on this.”

"The dryads are not defenseless. They are sons and daughters of nature itself, to use their own words, and if needed, nature itself will rise to their call. I have not experienced one of those episodes myself, but I have read that the best way it can be described, by those who have, were to simply say that *The forest swallowed them whole, and then there were silence.* Not descriptive, yet rather... Ominous, and well functioning as a warning, I would say.

As for the evergrown... Territorial, and highly protective of their trees, but I know some ways, there might be found some common ground. Diplomacy can start from that. Though I am only speculating they might be there. It is highly possible that they aren't either, and that I am merely being somewhat paranoid, about potential issues.

The fertilizer I think, have something to do with them being natural beings. The same essence if you will, that keeps them alive, vibrant, and growing, are the same which can have that effect on other plant life. That have always been my speculation at least, though I've yet to meet one to ask. The only ones who tend to be seen are exiles, far as I am aware."

He were curious, what it were they wandered over here to gaze upon, and what it were that Uddo were building up towards. Seemed as if there were purpose with their current detour down here at least. One which included the others, that were about to join them. All curious themselves likely. Except for Shrimp, who were still napping on Lin, utterly unaware of what were happening around them.

23 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

Upon reaching the couch, Uddo grabbed the iron fan on display and revealed a gauntlet below the iron ribs, affixing it to his left foreleg. Other than looking a little too big for himself, it seemed light enough that it wouldn’t impair movement. He gestured everyone to move back a bit, even getting Shade and Kiba to move the table and couches away to open the rest of the iron fan. With a flick of his leg and spinning the opened parts with one free claw, he revealed the the full extent of this item. It wasn’t merely a fan, but a red iron umbrella. The spinning motion was just fast enough to cause the edges to spark and release some tiny embers that flickered to the ground. Kiba was readying himself to grab some bowls with water just in case something were to catch fire.

“It’s called an iron fortress, a tool once passed on to me by this minotaur who stopped a couple of armed thieves from breaking into the shop and making off with whatever they could grab. The bumps, scratches, and burn marks on this thing suggest it’s been used for a very long time… The materials used to make this were strong and built to last; whoever made this thing knew what they were doing. Back then, the minotaur didn’t say much, only that he asked me to hold on to it and pass it on to someone who’ll need it more than me. 

“I didn’t know what it meant at the time, but hearing you talk about what you’re about to do, I think it may be time to pass it on, just like he said. I haven’t found myself ever grabbing it on impulse or necessity since that day, only cleaning it and grinding the frayed edges. Whether it’s fighting bugbears or defending yourself against lots of angry longma after hearing something unwanted, perhaps you may get some use out of it? Don’t be shy; feel free to try it. I’ll walk you through the process.”

Rosa actually raised an eyebrow in surprise, at what it were that he were seeing.

"I've heard of these, but never seen one in person. And a minotaur willingly gave you this? Quite puzzling. Somewhat sounds like a prediction being made, and him preparing for it... A seer perhaps? I heard minotaur mystics are kept very secure though..."

This were a puzzling thing. Granted, he were not one to spy on minotaurs in general, since the more rural ones, wouldn't trust his kind as it were, and those were the only ones with anything potentially interesting about them. Others were just living their own lives, most of the time, and thus, he didn't know as much as he maybe should. Just the basics needed, to survive an encounter with one, and what were considered important basic information. As well as some rumors, such as their mystics, which might not even be a thing, but just far fetched tales.

"This is a most peculiar item in any case. I'd love to try it, and see for myself how it functions. Knowledge is quite important after all.

While equipping it, I can give you a quick idea of what a bugbear is. An easy ten times the height of a full grown pony, and looks like the worst possible mixture, of a bear, and a wasp. The stinger and wings of a wasp, four bear arms, and then a pair of legs. All underneath a bear head, with sharp, powerful jaws and teeth.

Their stingers have a special toxin too, that is fatal without proper treatment. If you don't have the antidote, you will first fall into a deep sleep for several days. Then wake up, seemingly normal, but that is but a rouse. At that point, your body is pumping the toxin faster and faster through your system, until you perish through severe organ failure. If the antidote isn't administered within 24 hours of the reawakening, there is nearly no hope of survival left.

Now take all of this, and them combine it with them being an invasive, and highly aggressive species, and you may begin to see the issue. The only thing keeping them in check, are abysmally slow reproduction rates."

Whilst talking, he's try and equip the iron fortress, and when there, would then weight his leg, then try and unfold the whole thing a few times, to try and get a feel for the motion. Whilst trying to keep in mind, not to stand too close to anything flammable. Such a peculiar thing this were...

 

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles would smile at Honey Dew's reply and would nod "My clients are usually pretty happy with my service" she would say, thanking the serving pony and taking a bite from her piece of cake "mm delicious, anyway, yes I did mention my savings, pretty much it is just rainy days or if I ran out of something at home.. Though usually it's just if I come across a charity I would like to donate to" shed tell him with a smile, "Though, I also use it to help Fluttershy out when she needs something."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

"Do not worry doctor, I do not judge others by their exterior. Although... I can't help but consider you a person who likes to rock and roll..." Light replied.

"if it's combat and eliminating threats from Equestria, Shark is your pony for that." Light proudly proclaimed. 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

Kiba left the conversation feeling a little more confident with himself, no longer having that fear he mentioned after seeing the shadowy realm of Omen’s immediate family. Or he could just be deluding himself into thinking that, but there was the familiarity and assurance of having made a friend no matter how strange they may be. At least, that is the comforting thought; the young longma hoped that this meeting with Omen would make them friends, or better acquainted if anything. Regardless, that unease from earlier was replaced with something more positive, a feeling of general positivity.

Now that his father and Rosa were in the living room, everyone would get to see the old iron fan put to use. Without being told what it was, it had the appearance of an antique that was only good for making a room look pretty or a conversation-starter. Now, there was curiosity surrounding it. Who made it and what necessitated it’s construction? Did the minotaur that Uddo mentioned have anything to do with its creation, or was he another individual in a possibly long line of inheritors? All these questions were up in the air, but it was doubtful that Uddo could answer them. 

On 2022-07-13 at 5:47 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I've heard of these, but never seen one in person. And a minotaur willingly gave you this? Quite puzzling. Somewhat sounds like a prediction being made, and him preparing for it... A seer perhaps? I heard minotaur mystics are kept very secure though..."

This were a puzzling thing. Granted, he were not one to spy on minotaurs in general, since the more rural ones, wouldn't trust his kind as it were, and those were the only ones with anything potentially interesting about them. Others were just living their own lives, most of the time, and thus, he didn't know as much as he maybe should. Just the basics needed, to survive an encounter with one, and what were considered important basic information. As well as some rumors, such as their mystics, which might not even be a thing, but just far fetched tales.

"This is a most peculiar item in any case. I'd love to try it, and see for myself how it functions. Knowledge is quite important after all.

While equipping it, I can give you a quick idea of what a bugbear is. An easy ten times the height of a full grown pony, and looks like the worst possible mixture, of a bear, and a wasp. The stinger and wings of a wasp, four bear arms, and then a pair of legs. All underneath a bear head, with sharp, powerful jaws and teeth.

Their stingers have a special toxin too, that is fatal without proper treatment. If you don't have the antidote, you will first fall into a deep sleep for several days. Then wake up, seemingly normal, but that is but a rouse. At that point, your body is pumping the toxin faster and faster through your system, until you perish through severe organ failure. If the antidote isn't administered within 24 hours of the reawakening, there is nearly no hope of survival left.

Now take all of this, and them combine it with them being an invasive, and highly aggressive species, and you may begin to see the issue. The only thing keeping them in check, are abysmally slow reproduction rates."

“I wouldn’t know what made that minotaur pass on this tool to me, only said that when the right time came, I’d be in his place passing it on to someone who will need it. I suppose that task now falls to you, Rosa. When the time is right, it’ll be your turn to give it to someone as well. As for the bugbears… I wouldn’t know where to begin. A large, hybrid creature that could come straight out of a nightmare? I’m already going to have a hard time sleeping with that imagery. I’d be terrified if saw a real one, and I can imagine just how worse it could be for the longma in the forest, especially if they got stung.”

“Now, as you saw earlier, this iron fortress acts as a portable shield, but you can also use it as, well… a literal fan and as an umbrella. Hold it open in front of you to block, and you can extend the iron ribs if you want it to give you full-body and overhead protection. I take it this thing also protects from fire, and if the frayed edges hinted at something back then, those edges are sharp enough to cut. This is a tool that can be used offensively and defensively, and spinning the umbrella quickly can produce embers if you plan to scare something away. In a fight, how you choose to wield it will be your advantage. Maybe if you’re planning to hunt a bugbear for its stinger, the shield will come in handy”

If pressed, Uddo will admit that a lot of what he said may be told to him from the minotaur. It was either that or piecing information together based on what he saw and what could be extrapolated based on the fortress’ condition when he received it. As far as tools go, it was seemingly complicated, but it is simply a deceptive weapon. One moment, it could be a shield, and the next, it could be used to leave cuts and scrapes on those unfortunate to be struck by it. Perhaps if given enough time for study, one might find out more about the tool’s origins, maybe understanding the mind behind it.

“While we’re talking about these plans with the longma, Rosa, have you met others aside from Sen and Lin? How about you, Miss Omen? Sen told me during our private conversation earlier today that you’ve got a home in their village. Or rather, you're sharing a home with them. What’s your impression of the longma in their village?”

Though Uddo seemingly turned his back on the longma and his old life, some part of him wonders what they are up to now. Him taking an interest in Rosa’s plan to talk to the elders hinted at some semblance of curiosity. He may not say anything about it outright, but there may be hints of him not being completely over his time in the villages. The siblings may not have noticed this oddity, as they were more interested in the iron umbrella and what it could do. For now, it may be that the older longma is gauging how best to approach the Rosa's plan on the chance that he's successful.

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@AuroraGlimmer

"Yes. I hear that Fluttershy's animal sanctuary runs mostly on charity, and her own efforts. It's an ah, commendable effort. One can tell that she truly cares about the animals.

I went there a little over a year past, when it wasn't as ah, well put together, as I hear it is now. I wonder sometimes, if the presence of Discord have helped her to make it more to her taste. He's ah, unpredictable, I suppose one might say, yet powerful. There is something to be said for his abilities, if she needed to have her sanctuary fixed up, in some ways.

But I digress, it seems. Focusing on work only. So... You ah, came to Ponyville you say, after school? Were you born and raised in Canterlot though? I hear the school picks out talent from all over Equestria."

He'd take a sip more of tea, and them a bite of his bun. He hadn't taken the time to eat a lot today, so it were good to get something in his system. Some days were just too busy to focus on things like that, you know? Not right now though He had all the time in the world, so to speak. Plenty to try and learn more about this mare, depending on her own time table, of course. He did not want to be a burden on her own planned events.

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

 

@Kujamih

"Awh dude, don't you know it? Was off to see the Mad Hatters last night. Man that concert was awesome! Well worth the three hour train ride.

Sing-A-Long even tossed his hat right in my face! I was thrilled."

The memory of the lead singer, going through his usual stunt of tossing the hat of the evening, into the face of somepony in the crowd, and then picking her, were one she'd cherish. As were the hat, that they could see on her shelf. Tall and looked halfway like somepony had stepped on it, making it crooked. It were in a multitude of colors, and to finish it off, had a glittering, ruby-colored ribbon, wrapped around the middle, and set in place by the band's iconic emblem: A pin, that looked like three music nodes, falling out of a hat.

"Few tried taking the hat from me after. Earned me a few bruises to keep them off, but like hay I'm letting that one go.

Aaaah, good times... Anyway, you folks enrolling? That's cool. I look forward to doing a health exam on Shark here, cause I dunno how she works, but I'm mighty curious."

Shark meanwhile, just tried to listen, but got distracted by a lot she didn't understand, and had wandered over to sniff around under the first of the beds.

"Somepony spilled a drop of blood in here yesterday. I thought I had cleaned it up proper... Gonna put *Real strong snout* in her papers for now.

So, what about you dude? You a friend of hers? Feeling poorly? Y'know, since this is a doc's office, and so I could run a check, if you ain't feeling spiffy."

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

 

@-Solstice-

Not much else would happen, over the next ten or so hours, where Zeehva would sleep. She were utterly exhausted, from the emotional turmoil happening during the past day. Tough after ten she would groggily move from her side of the bed, where she had huddled herself down.

She'd stagger out of the room, seemingly in as much of a hurry as she could be, and would slam the door open on the room in front of them. Just another empty residency though, so she'd move back, and take the door next to them, which were thankfully the restroom. Which were good, cause she couldn't hold this in much longer.

If her moving about, hadn't woken up Magnolia by then, perhaps the sound of her vomiting from the next room, both doors open, would do the trick. Certainly wouldn't be the most pleasant morning clock around, but it certainly stood out enough, to be taken notice of.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

Rosa had indeed asked some questions of Uddo, on how he knew what he spouted, but the reasoning were sensible. The minotaur would surely have explained the use, if he were at the point where he were giving this away in the first place. Which still confused Rosa, and made him somewhat paranoid about what the reason might be. Yet he were trained to think like this, and not take much at face value. Like his teachers had said: Everyone lies. Even to themselves.

As such, it were up to him, and others trained like him, to discern fact, from fiction, and get to the truth of things Which made them question things, even if not openly.

He'd probably be thinking about this for a long time, but for the time being, the more important thing, were whatever or not, he could use this thing practically. His combat style tended to be focused less on taking hits, as much as dodging and looking for openings. Or the more optimal route, of solving things at a distance, or through ambush attacks, to avoid fighting happening all together.

That said, there were a few times, where something like this could be practical, like when the golden statue had punched him. As well as it being usable as an umbrella, and fire starter. It weren't too heavy either, so it seemed possible to carry around with ease, albeit he would have to adjust for the slight weight. A long, solid walk would do the most work on that.

For now though, he'd listen, whilst continuing to practice unfolding it, at various angles, and seeing how efficiently it would work at various movements. Uddo would likely be able to tell from it, that Rosa were not unfamiliar with combat, though his profession should still be a mystery. Nothing screamed *Spy* from this thus far, and long as that were, that would be all that mattered. Frankly, if ever it came forth what he were, around Uddo, or the other longma, his chances at being helpful, would fall to 0. They'd never trust a spy. Reformed or not.

On 2022-07-15 at 1:10 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“While we’re talking about these plans with the longma, Rosa, have you met others aside from Sen and Lin? How about you, Miss Omen? Sen told me during our private conversation earlier today that you’ve got a home in their village. Or rather, you're sharing a home with them. What’s your impression of the longma in their village?”

"I have not seen them a lot. Some of them say they remember me. I do not. I only have a few pictures in my head, but no context."

The majority of what she had done, had gotten cleared, when she had been told top clear her mind, during the conflict in the village. All she had accumulated, were more or less gone, so she didn't know the others, nor what happened. She could barely recall what had happened, before they even got to the village, but were in the area in the first place.

"I remember seeing their traps. I began making gates under others then, to protect my friends. It worked good. Then they got caught in nets. Then nothing. All gone.

...Longma town looks different from pony towns. Less bricks. No electricity. Very simple, it looks like."

"I have sadly not visited, and can thus not say anything about them specifically, yet alas... We have heard of other longma before, via association.

I know not if you have heard of, or ever visited one of the carnivals, in The Moonlit Thicket? One of the guards there, were a member of a local, expansive family, called Tomb Stone. She informed us that she had seen other longma, before Sen and Lin. However, all of them were deceased. It appears that the fate of exiles are... Depressingly uncertain.

It is one thing that I admit, are a driving factor, in me trying to lend my aid to connect your villages, with the outside world. The practice of exile might not be stopped, but if known, then perhaps it can be arranged more proper, that those who do suffer such a fate, know they can have welcoming homes elsewhere, rather than ending up alone and scared, out in some wilderness. It is a small improvement I suppose, yet I would argue, that every little thing, helps in such a situation.

As for this peculiar armament, I will practice it thoroughly, Uddo. I can guarantee you of that. So when time comes, I can implore what I have learned, to the next in line."

Edited July 16, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

" not so sure about me though doc.... I'm an earth pony who has too much magic inside... So there's a chance I turn into an alicorn... But I think my chances of becoming a draconicous is higher.... Kidding aside... I just feel dizzy since Shark took me into a loop when we were flying. " Light jested.

"As  per Shark... Well she's half Shark half pony who could fly... And I would like to be present with my mate when your curiosity strikes. " Light informed Doctor Needlepoint.

 

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles would smile and nod "She adores her animal friends, it really is a sweet sight to see" she'd say, munching on her cake and sipping on her drink, nodding to Honey Dew's question "Mmhm, born and grew up in Canterlot, I moved as soon as I graduated though, while I do miss my parents, Canterlot just had..a snooty feeling I didn't like, so I moved here, where it's much more peaceful and quiet..when you know..like you said, a celebrity shows up or the town is attacked by something" she chuckles.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,598]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby acknowledged Leviathan's warning, though the part about fire was not a concern to her, since in this form she was simply unable to breath fire until she specifically left that unchanged while transforming, something that she had not done as she had seen no reason to think she would need that ability. She thought for a second, it was hard to make sure that nobody saw her eating things here, so she came up with an idea, she took one of the bags of extra spicy crisps, opened it, and after making sure nobody was looking at her at that exact moment, she put the dragon chili in it. she then, inside the bag, ripped it into small pieces, about the size of the crisps, and ta-da, now she could eat in peace, because while it still looked quite different from the crisps, nobody would really have time to see what she was eating from the short moment they were outside the bag and her mouth. 

After that came the actual tasting of things, she started with the soda, as she knew that if what Leviathan said was even close to true, she wouldn't get the real taste if she first ate the chili. It tasted like what she expected, a fruity soda, she didn't despise it, but she also wouldn't be craving for more, she did again think about something that she had thought before when drinking sodas to blend in, what would it taste like if there was a blood soda, as in, actual blood flavor, and what other animal-based flavors there could be.

Then for the chili, which she took with hoof-full of the spicy crisps just to make extra sure nobody noticed anything, and her reaction....was equally as unremarkable as her reaction to most things, only indication that she even felt anything was the expected reaction of her body to the spiciness, slightly watering eyes, runny nose, and slight general redness around the face, her expression did not change, though she would have probably let out smoke if that would have been possible as a pony. After few moments of total silence, she just took another hoof-full.  She avoided touching it with anything else than her hoof, because with her pony form came the weaknesses of pony skin, and she didn't know if it could cause skin damage of some sort, not that it would have been a big problem, but annoyance is an annoyance. 

 

For Charir, his reaction to his things was best described as unsure, these things didn't taste bad, but he also didn't think he'd purposely seek them out, it was a conflict of sorts in his mind, as his immediate reaction said it was good and he could have more, but after the taste sank in his thought moved to it not being food and thus he probably shouldn't. This was apparent outside with his expression showing that he seemed to have hard time deciding something. 

He got curious after seeing Ruby go through her tasting, and sniffed the bag she was eating from, though he was clearly not a fan, as he immediately backed away with his tongue out showing disgust, and let out a tiny amount of smoke to clean his nostrils.

"Meal" Ruby said in slightly dismissive manner "You have a weird definition of a meal." her voice was slightly affected by the burning of the chili, but it was not to great extend. It may have seemed at first almost hostile response, as it was a serious sounding  statement rather than a joke, but if one paid attention to what was not mentioned, they could possibly see that it wasn't as black and white. 

"I wouldn't say I specifically like any of these, but they are not awful either, guess it's a matter of getting used to things, it is refreshing to have something spicy enough to taste like something." she quickly glanced at Charir "And I don't think he's entirely sure what to think."  she then in surprisingly playful decision, quickly poked Leviathan's out-sticking tongue with her hoof, the one covered in dragon-chili and very spicy crisp dust, and with voice so overly serious that it was humorous said "There was something on your face." 

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

Scarecrow greeted the new individuals with a nod "Nice to meet you." he would have wanted to claim he felt bad for Hawk Eye, as something in him told he probably should, but as he could not feel empathy, the best he could do was to wonder if its situation was in any way similar to his, and to acknowledge that its situation was probably worse than his just due to the fact that it seemed depressed, since at least he had the advantage of not being able to feel that way. "Please don't interrupt anything because of me, I have more than enough time to spare." 

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

The order to leave was slightly unnecessary, as most of them were already leaving the room, Chega was first, as she started leaving the moment they had lowered Onache down, this was bit much for her, and Sear followed her, as she naturally wanted to make sure she was aright. Trox was also ready to leave, but waited for Sheska who stayed nearby until told to leave, though even she hadn't been in the way, as being a professional herself, she knew how these things were.

For reactions to the whole thing, Chega took it worst, clearly on the brink of throwing up, though she managed, and Sear had pretty much already pushed the whole thing aside as she was lot more concerned about making sure Chega was doing fine, her tough outside having melted as she was quietly helping her. Sheska and Trox meanwhile seemed very much unfazed, yes they were worried about Onache's fate, but they had grown numb to things like this, they may have not seen something like this exactly before, but Sheska having been the medical help for lot of creatures that weren't able to go to the hospital for reason or another, they both had seen lot of horrific things.

As Chega and Sear were bit occupied with the whole not throwing up thing, it was left for Trox and Sheska to respond to the question, and Sheska was the one to start speaking first. "Someone shot a pellet that puffed out some kind of quick acting toxin, it was a direct hit to her face, so no doubt she was the target." "There was no further pellets after or before it, so that makes it even more likely that it was meant for her." "She was mid-sentence when it happened, and she didn't react before it was too late, so whoever it was, was far enough that her mind accessing ability didn't reach that far." Sear cut in for a moment "There was also no obvious perpetrators when I looked around." "And since you're probably going to ask it, besides the one you are also aware of..." Trox pointed at Stargazer when he said 'you' "...we have no idea who would want her dead, she hasn't talked about her enemies." The tone of both twins was the same dry tone Stargazer would be familiar with

 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-07-16 at 6:41 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I remember seeing their traps. I began making gates under others then, to protect my friends. It worked good. Then they got caught in nets. Then nothing. All gone.

...Longma town looks different from pony towns. Less bricks. No electricity. Very simple, it looks like."

“Yes… it’s a fact of life in the forest. Without technology, life in the longma villages is simple. Without electricity, there’s fire to give light in the evenings. It can get pretty dark at night, so nobody would travel at that time unless it was absolutely necessary. It was much better to stay within the confines of a village because it guarantees protection. The traps are there to ward off wild animals and the occasional troublemaker or criminal, but you’re in a place where the trees are homes. It sort of makes sense to hide them in places where you think you’d find safety. Just be careful about the traps hidden under your feet, Miss Omen. Good traps like those can hide nasty surprises, especially if they are hidden well. Learning of those will help you because you’ll never know when you’ll run into one.”

Uddo thought about the common pit trap, but those could be obvious based on discolorations in the dirt. Some would have a very conspicuous patch of leaves in the middle of an open path. The good ones would blend so well with their surroundings, none would suspect anything off about them, and the devious trap makers would have nasty surprises hidden in the pit. Sen may know some of those tricks, but he didn’t find the time opportune to share what he knew. The conversation would go elsewhere and leave them distracted from something potentially important. 

As for his question to Rosa, the discussion would take a turn for the depressing, as there was more to the longma that even he didn’t think was possible.

On 2022-07-16 at 6:41 PM, Blitz Boom said:

I know not if you have heard of, or ever visited one of the carnivals, in The Moonlit Thicket? One of the guards there, were a member of a local, expansive family, called Tomb Stone. She informed us that she had seen other longma, before Sen and Lin. However, all of them were deceased. It appears that the fate of exiles are... Depressingly uncertain.

It is one thing that I admit, are a driving factor, in me trying to lend my aid to connect your villages, with the outside world. The practice of exile might not be stopped, but if known, then perhaps it can be arranged more proper, that those who do suffer such a fate, know they can have welcoming homes elsewhere, rather than ending up alone and scared, out in some wilderness. It is a small improvement I suppose, yet I would argue, that every little thing, helps in such a situation.

“I didn’t know about that, and it’s a shame some don’t find comfort and respite in lands outside the forest. I guess my family and I got off luckier than most, if that’s what you’ve been told. I chose my exile; I’ve made peace with the fact that I’ll never return home, but I suppose that luck doesn’t mean much when others are finding their way here and… not faring well. Back home, the practice of exile was reserved for criminals who had no hope for reformation. When I learned Sen and Lin were among those, I started to wonder if others were just like them, products of circumstances beyond their control. A convenient excuse to remove unwanted elements…”

“I don’t know if I could devote time to finding other longma who are lost, what with my obligations to my family coming first, but I’ll see if there are sympathetic folks around who could look into this. I’ve heard word of a shelter in Canterlot that might know something, but you need not worry about that. Your reasons for your interest in the longma are understandable, Rosa, but understand that not every exile is innocent. I’m not saying you should accept it for what it is, but please exercise sound discernment. This is a delicate subject, so I don’t think it’s wise to bring it up to the elders all of a sudden.”

Sen grew quiet at the mention of this topic. He still remembers what Tomb Stone told him back during the carnival. That was a difficult thing to hear, but he was thankful for it nonetheless. He wouldn’t speak up on this matter, but he still took his uncle’s words to heart, as did Lin. Perhaps if there was time, the two could look into this matter, and they have a place to start investigating. It’s a strange thing to hear that Canterlot has a shelter since Sen didn’t run into one. Maybe that was a more recent development, one that sprung up after he left.

For now, the night moved forward, and with it, time that could be said to have been well spent. Alas, it it seemed that spending time in good company made the passage of time feel faster than expected. There was still work to be done in getting the place cleaned up, but Uddo was content with his meeting with Rosa and Omen, as was being acquainted with Sen and Lin earlier in the day. 

“Look, I don’t like cutting this dinner and meeting with you short, but tomorrow comes early for the workshop, so I’d need some time to get things sorted here. It was good meeting and getting to know all of you. Rosa, you keep practicing with that umbrella, and if you all need anything, just stop by the shop.”

Kiba and Uddo walked up to the siblings, the thestral, and the Ki’nathar, shaking each of their claws and hooves. Kiba’s was especially more enthusiastic now that he got to know the others better, though he’d quickly run off after getting an idea from seeing his father pass on the iron fortress to Rosa. It wouldn’t be long until he was back with some items for Sen, Lin, and Omen. 

“I didn’t want you to leave without something, so I figured you’d like to have a couple of things that could help. I’ve got a book, a pack of cards, and a multitool. Since you look like you travel a lot, these might help in case you need them or just want to find ways to pass the time. There’s also a small rubber ball here for Shrimp in case he’d like to play.”

“These are great! Thank you, Kiba. You know, you didn’t have to do this, right?”

“Yeah, but after talking with all of you. I figured these might come in handy. It’s no iron fortress, but these still have their uses. Besides, after learning all of you are helping Miss Omen with reading, I wanted to pitch in and help however I could. This is a beginner-level book, so it wouldn't be difficult if you get the basics down."

[Rising Dusk 27,690]

@Blitz Boom

The thoughts that passed through Dawn's mind at the ideas of having to continue along this fashion trend in Harrowmark wasn't pleasant.  She wasn't even sure the examples she brought wouldn't just blow the minds of those in this land, or more likely just go completely over their heads.  Ponies in her own land struggled to fully appreciate the levels of high fashion in the circles Dawn walks in.  More common Equestrian attire would server better, and delegated to another pony in the long run.  Harrowmark was even lucky to get Dawn in the dress she was wearing now. 

The family watched another pony exit a nearby room and then be quickly shooed away for the glare of the high priestess.  Her attention more on the guests than the duty or ritual the other pony was bringing forth.  With her departure, Star could take his chance, "Ho ho ho!  A pleasure Ms. Thistle, a pleasure indeed!  My boy has told us of his time with you, although void of particular details to myself and his mother.  Likely to spare these parents of worry, ho ho ho."  The older stallion would receive a sideways glare from Grace.  They had only gotten the cliff-notes version of the events in Harrowmark and knew that a battle took place.  But to be told Rising had to be lifted away to safety foretold of their lack of knowledge to the use of the powerpill.  Their son also opted to leave out the grizzly details of Twisted's swamp.

Rising had thought the banquette in Stone Haven was enough, but he'd long lost this battle.  "Revelation, what a wonderful gift for anypony," the father exclaimed.  A scholar's answer, of course.  Rising had been learning more and more about Viz'nay, even most recently being visited in his dreams.  In her domain of Harrowmark, he wondered if they stayed the night if he'd be visited again.  The distance to Equestria was likely difficult.  

The family followed as instructed to the wall where Harrowmark could once again display their use of transportation.  Another weaving of Thistle's magic unfolded to open the hidden passage, another key to be filed away in the detective's mind.  The revealed hall reminded the twins a lot of That Place, although in physical world.  Void of light or any amenities, and the only source of safe passage being Thistle.  Just like Dawn was when walking through That Place.  "Where are the others?" Rising inquired.  Thistle, Sickle and Bright Eye were accounted for, but Willow and Minty's pegasus friend were still missing.  "Where can I get those shoes?" Dawn asked, her question less grounded.   

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-07-20 at 5:07 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Ho ho ho!  A pleasure Ms. Thistle, a pleasure indeed!  My boy has told us of his time with you, although void of particular details to myself and his mother.  Likely to spare these parents of worry, ho ho ho."

"ℍ𝕚𝕘𝕙 ℙ𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕤. 𝕠𝕣 𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕝𝕖. 𝕄𝕚𝕤𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕚𝕣, 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕔𝕚𝕡𝕝𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕍𝕚𝕫'𝕟𝕒𝕪."

She'd keep her eyes upon Star. Just evaluating what she saw, and not casting judgements, or showing any signs of anger. Why really would she? He did not know what titles mattered here, nor the proper way to address them. Thus, she wouldn't be even irked. Just educate the stallion, whom she could clearly tell were a taught pony. He should absorb information well.

"𝔸𝕤 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕘𝕠𝕕𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕕𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕥𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖𝕤, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕟𝕖𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕤𝕙𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕨𝕖. 𝕎𝕖 𝕒𝕔𝕔𝕖𝕡𝕥 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕠𝕗 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕤, 𝕒𝕤 𝕚𝕥 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕨𝕤 𝕒𝕗𝕗𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟, 𝕓𝕦𝕥 𝕟𝕒𝕞𝕖 𝕒𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕤𝕦𝕗𝕗𝕚𝕔𝕖 𝕒𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝.

ℝ𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕣𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕚𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕞𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕤𝕠𝕟, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕖 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣, 𝕚𝕥 𝕤𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕤 𝕒𝕤 𝕚𝕗 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕤𝕙 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕦𝕣𝕕𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕕. 𝕀 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥, 𝕒𝕝𝕓𝕖𝕚𝕥 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕠𝕕𝕕, 𝕚𝕗 𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕗𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕘𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕤𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝕕𝕖𝕞𝕚-𝕘𝕠𝕕 𝕠𝕗 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕣𝕪, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕦𝕔𝕔𝕖𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕐𝕖𝕥 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕞𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕧𝕒𝕘𝕦𝕖. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕤𝕙𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕚𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕣𝕕𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤."

Perhaps she had helped some, but it were little, and would have meant nothing, had he not done so much. Freeing souls to make her stronger, and showing promise, that made the goddess risk freeing Suusha to give him more than most would think her having left to spare. Had he not done that, she could not have called upon the powers needed, to assist him. And she would hear none, give her honor in what were his legacy. She had her own to rebuild, while his would soon be cemented in stone.

On 2022-07-20 at 5:07 AM, Rising Dusk said:

Rising had thought the banquette in Stone Haven was enough, but he'd long lost this battle.  "Revelation, what a wonderful gift for anypony," the father exclaimed.  A scholar's answer, of course.  Rising had been learning more and more about Viz'nay, even most recently being visited in his dreams.  In her domain of Harrowmark, he wondered if they stayed the night if he'd be visited again.  The distance to Equestria was likely difficult.  

This, she would merely nod at, though say no more. She wished them to see, and hear at the same time. Spoiling it now, would not work towards the grand reveal, that she wished to bestow upon them.

On 2022-07-20 at 5:07 AM, Rising Dusk said:

The family followed as instructed to the wall where Harrowmark could once again display their use of transportation.  Another weaving of Thistle's magic unfolded to open the hidden passage, another key to be filed away in the detective's mind.  The revealed hall reminded the twins a lot of That Place, although in physical world.  Void of light or any amenities, and the only source of safe passage being Thistle.  Just like Dawn was when walking through That Place.  "Where are the others?" Rising inquired.  Thistle, Sickle and Bright Eye were accounted for, but Willow and Minty's pegasus friend were still missing.  "Where can I get those shoes?" Dawn asked, her question less grounded.   

Before she answered, a flickering light would faintly begin to become more visible in the distance, lighting up a small portion of wall. It seemed like this path were not endless, and that in fact, they might be expected.

"𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕚𝕥 𝕦𝕤, 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕡𝕒𝕥𝕙. 𝔹𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕪𝕖𝕥 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕪. 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕚𝕗 𝕚𝕥 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕤 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕡𝕖𝕒𝕔𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕕, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕤 𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕘𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕤, 𝕠𝕗 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 ℚ𝕦𝕖𝕖𝕟 𝕄𝕒𝕘𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗. 𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕞 𝕥𝕠 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕒𝕗𝕖𝕥𝕪, 𝕤𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕦𝕟𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕞𝕖𝕕.

𝔸𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒𝕚𝕞 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕚𝕣𝕖 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕖, 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕀 𝕪𝕠𝕦. 𝕀𝕥 𝕣𝕖𝕢𝕦𝕚𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕕𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕦𝕟𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕧𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕪 𝕘𝕠𝕕𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕘𝕚𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕨𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕓𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕤𝕖 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕘𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕞𝕠𝕠𝕟𝕝𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥. 𝔸𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕔𝕙 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕟𝕠 𝕣𝕖𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕤, 𝕪𝕖𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦'𝕣𝕖 𝕒 𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕝𝕚𝕗𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕙𝕝𝕪 𝕡𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕖𝕤. 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒𝕤𝕜 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥, 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕞𝕪 𝕡𝕦𝕣𝕡𝕠𝕤𝕖. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕞𝕚𝕝𝕪 𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥."

They would be near the end of the path by then, and as their voices were heard, they'd in turn, hear someone else. And sure enough, after a short gallop, and turning a corner, Thistle's light would radiate upon none other, than Will-O-Wisp, who gazed past the high priestess, and towards Rising. A sight which seemed to ease her some, yet worries still were planted across her face. From the red eyes, one could surmise she had been crying too. Heavily, and recently. Her pale expression, saying whatever it had been, were something that had touched her deeply, in a - no pun intended - harrowing way.

"Y-You're here? P-Praise the gods."

The soft but nervous voice belonged to a unicorn mare in her twenties, looking at him with her big, pale-blue eyes. Her mane were as long and flowing as her tail, colored in dark blue and with a line of golden blond hair going down the midst of it. Her coat were light blue as water in a pool, and she wore an outfit that were reminiscent of what Lily wore, just in a brighter shade of brown, no hat, and a longer skirt.

On her head, would be another, who would look upon the detective. And as he saw him, would let out a loud, reverberating caw. It seemed Chirpy remembered him well, as he followed Rising with his pale, milky eyes. Wings folded like this, one could only judge by the eyes, that he were not alive. And even then, that could just be seen as a kind of regional thing. Much like the fact, that he were double the size, of any Equestrian raven.

She'd take a step forward, then noticed those around him. First and foremost, that being Dawn, who she'd give a briefly horrified, then apologetic look towards. As if she had just gotten a realization, that made what she had been about to do, mortify her to some extend.

"O-Oh, I'm... I'm so sorry miss. I was just... I was j-just gonna hug him. I weren't uhm... T-Trying to make a move on your uhm... H-Husband? Coltfriend?"

She didn't know better, in fairness. She just saw Rising well dressed, along with an older pair - whom she'd assume were his parents - and then a well dressed mare, whom she assumed were his beloved. That it were his sister, did not even register as an option.

And in case any of them wore overly shiny things, as part of their attire, they'd find that Chirpy's eyes would fall upon those things. He wasn't gonna steal anything... Currently, but alive, dead, or undead, he were still a raven, and glittering things were fascinating to him.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-07-17 at 4:29 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Yes… it’s a fact of life in the forest. Without technology, life in the longma villages is simple. Without electricity, there’s fire to give light in the evenings. It can get pretty dark at night, so nobody would travel at that time unless it was absolutely necessary. It was much better to stay within the confines of a village because it guarantees protection. The traps are there to ward off wild animals and the occasional troublemaker or criminal, but you’re in a place where the trees are homes. It sort of makes sense to hide them in places where you think you’d find safety. Just be careful about the traps hidden under your feet, Miss Omen. Good traps like those can hide nasty surprises, especially if they are hidden well. Learning of those will help you because you’ll never know when you’ll run into one.”

"I have fallen in traps before. Some had spikey things. I just open a gate."

"A convenient luxury, that not many have available. I'd still agree that it is best to be cautious. You might not always have the gates."

"I have always had them."

"Things can change."

Omen would have to think over this, but she weren't sure that Rosa were right in this. She always had these portals, and were used to using them to get places. Or get away from wrong things. Why would they suddenly be gone, after all of this time? However long that time were. Very long, were her best guess, since she heard others speak of the time Master Discord ruled, talking about it as it being very, very long ago. With those exact words. Maybe once she could read, she'd have the option of knowing exactly how long? That'd be interesting, yes?

On 2022-07-17 at 4:29 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I didn’t know about that, and it’s a shame some don’t find comfort and respite in lands outside the forest. I guess my family and I got off luckier than most, if that’s what you’ve been told. I chose my exile; I’ve made peace with the fact that I’ll never return home, but I suppose that luck doesn’t mean much when others are finding their way here and… not faring well. Back home, the practice of exile was reserved for criminals who had no hope for reformation. When I learned Sen and Lin were among those, I started to wonder if others were just like them, products of circumstances beyond their control. A convenient excuse to remove unwanted elements…”

“I don’t know if I could devote time to finding other longma who are lost, what with my obligations to my family coming first, but I’ll see if there are sympathetic folks around who could look into this. I’ve heard word of a shelter in Canterlot that might know something, but you need not worry about that. Your reasons for your interest in the longma are understandable, Rosa, but understand that not every exile is innocent. I’m not saying you should accept it for what it is, but please exercise sound discernment. This is a delicate subject, so I don’t think it’s wise to bring it up to the elders all of a sudden.”

"I never intended to mention that to them. Saying that, would be setting me up for this whole endeavor, being utterly fruitless from the beginning. I think it best to keep that as a... Delightful perk, if things goes well.

I am also not blind, to how the mentioned exiles might be troubling individuals. However, the fact that it is misused at all, suggests it best to set up every exile, to be evaluated, and if possible, have them integrate into another society.

Also, if I may be frank here? I have serious doubts of what constitutes a fair exile, from your society, at this point in time. What I have seen, does not speak of well, of how high a crime needs to be, for such a punishment. It seems even petty things, can lead to it, and thus, I currently do not have a substantial amount of faith, in your judicial system. I am open to be proven wrong, but I can only judge from the data I have, and currently, that isn't overtly flattering. Also something I will not mention to them, as I do not want to hamper my own attempt, by being judgmental from the beginning., Not of this, anyway.

In regards to those exiled, and perhaps yet alive... I will need to examine a few things, but it may be possible to have the Equestrian system work in your favor there. If they can become aware of your kin, and be presented with ways to communicate, and ultimately, how to deal with a longma, it could help them to understand the need to approach., As well as potential danger. This do not require the cooperation of the elders. Merely presenting the right arguments, to the correct pony. They would not spend resources to track down others, but if made aware, they can then deal with it constructively, instead of going under the assumption, that it is a dangerous creature they're dealing with, and acting accordingly.

There are also organisations that look for lost ones, as well as general adventuring groups, who tend to see this and that, but I'd need some time to look into the finer details, on who to contact. It would simply waste time, to go through the correct channels, only to end up being faced with one, who explains this not falling under their field of expertise, or jurisdiction."

He wouldn't say it out loud, but he may have knowledge of these things, due to have taken advantage of them in the past. A few... Misleading details, to make others seek out who he were looking for. This were different though. This time, it would primarily be an honest arrangement. He would just have a less than honest background in how he knew this.

The conversation seemed to veer off after that, so unless there were further questions, or statements, he'd let it proceed properly. Then afterwards, do his part in helping with the dishes. It were the least he could do quite frankly,. Although when Omen got curious, and asked if she could help to, he'd tell her that they were okay, but that he thanked for her for the offer.

In truth, he weren't aware how she'd do with something like this. Beyond being highly certain, that Discord had taught her how to clean up, bu having her lick the plates. And clean as her tongue may be, this were not the time, nor place, for such activities.

On 2022-07-17 at 4:29 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Look, I don’t like cutting this dinner and meeting with you short, but tomorrow comes early for the workshop, so I’d need some time to get things sorted here. It was good meeting and getting to know all of you. Rosa, you keep practicing with that umbrella, and if you all need anything, just stop by the shop.”

Kiba and Uddo walked up to the siblings, the thestral, and the Ki’nathar, shaking each of their claws and hooves. Kiba’s was especially more enthusiastic now that he got to know the others better, though he’d quickly run off after getting an idea from seeing his father pass on the iron fortress to Rosa. It wouldn’t be long until he was back with some items for Sen, Lin, and Omen. 

“I didn’t want you to leave without something, so I figured you’d like to have a couple of things that could help. I’ve got a book, a pack of cards, and a multitool. Since you look like you travel a lot, these might help in case you need them or just want to find ways to pass the time. There’s also a small rubber ball here for Shrimp in case he’d like to play.”

“These are great! Thank you, Kiba. You know, you didn’t have to do this, right?”

“Yeah, but after talking with all of you. I figured these might come in handy. It’s no iron fortress, but these still have their uses. Besides, after learning all of you are helping Miss Omen with reading, I wanted to pitch in and help however I could. This is a beginner-level book, so it wouldn't be difficult if you get the basics down."

Omen looked at the presented things, and sniffed the ball a little. Rosa would ask why, but he halted himself from asking, as he got the feeling he didn't wish to know. Not really.

She'd deal with the hoof shake, much like a doll. Relaxed muscles. not offering resistance,. not grabbing anything. It were less that they were shaking hooves, and more like pulling a chunkier sleeve around, that someone were still wearing.

Seeing the item a bit more, Omen would pause, then silently open a small gate, slip through it, and close it behind her. Without taking any item. If it had been put in her hoof, she'd let it sit on the floor. An action causing Rosa to sigh heavily.

"I think I know where this is going... She should return shortly."

And she did. Though, dragging something with her. A trunk of pitch-black, dark wood. It were  the length of her own body, and thick enough that if hollowed out, she'd fit comfortably within it. Potentially with Sen too, if they got in close to one another.

It were a little dusty, but a thorough dusting should sort that out. maybe a wet cloth, to deal with the musty smell, seeming to indicate this had been stored in some old warehouse, or shed, for a long, long time.

"Gift for me, gift for you then too, yes? Special wood."

"...Please tell me you didn't steal this."

"No. Found it, after Zhu told me strange things. Sometimes I find things, I hide them, and come back to look at them. See if I understand them better. This was still there. Got it from bat ponies, for taking larger wood to somewhere else."

"*sigh* Of course they did..."

Rosa would go over, and knock on the wood a little. As he expected, it were a thoroughly massive, solid lump of wood. If her putting it down on the floor, with a notable thud, wasn't enough warning of that. However, dusting it off a little.

"Nighthaven Ironwood. Only grown, and sold, off of a small island, not far from Germane. Even if the residents use magical fertilizer, to make them grow faster, they still tend to mostly deal with select retailers, that buys everything they are offered. Getting any of this raw like this, is near impossible, unless you have connections. That said, I find her reasons believable. If they needed a quick delivery, her gates would be worth it for them, and this be seen as a substantial, yet important payment. You could make something rather unique from this, which would be hard to get hold of for most, outside of the top of society, Uddo.

Fair warning though: The name holds true. These are are tough as iron, and thus, you're going to need crystal told to work with them. Even then, it will take time, and effort. The deep, onyx coloration though, is persistent throughout it, and the durability is notable. It's sought out for a reason."

"Special wood. You make things with wood, yes? So good gift?"

He could sell it as it were, or use it, or just have it somewhere. Regardless, what were utterly worthless to Omen, were something of value for him, in her mind, and thus, she gave this over. She'd also try to eat the things she were given, until Rosa told her to not do so just yet, and offering to hold them himself. She'd agree, though not understanding why. The why he did not tell her about, being that he did not want them to see her swallow a ball, and wonder if it was dangerous.

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

 

@Kujamih

"An earth pony with excess magic? Heh, ain't that something? Read about those a few times. Hope you ain't no necromancer though, eh?

Anyway, it's a fun lil' joke you had there, but don't be silly. You can't morph into a draconequui, nor an alicorn. The sort of magic it'd take to make you an alicorn, unfiltered? It'd probably just cause you to explode. That's the theory anyway. Not like there's actual studies on this sorta thing.

And speaking of draconequui- I actually saw this one's creator, so I saw her when she were just, pure shark, flopping in the air. It was a mad scene, to see that sorta change going on. One of those things nearly gulped my head down, cause I weren't paying attention. It were pretty cool. Though not as much as seeing you two are apparently a thing. Heh, guess the heroine got herself a nice reward for her help after all."

"Light is strong mate. Will make many healthy pups."

"Dibs on being your doctor, when that goes on. And pediatrician. I'll take the courses and everything."

"Are you sure that's a goo-"

"Like I'd ever find a cooler couple, that're gonna have just like, the most interesting foals ever."

"Shark have pups."

"Right, right, my bad.

You got anything against it, Light? Surely it'd be nice knowing your doc in advance, hmm?"

There might be a slight glimmer of begging in her eyes... Very little. It were just such an intriguing option, you know? How could she not jump at it?

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

 

@AuroraGlimmer

"I ah, hear that about Canterlot, yes. The snooty part, that is. The two visits I have made to the capitol in my time, have ah, not made it that much of a surprise to be told. The nobles are - Well, the nobles I met that is - not pleasant to be around.

I will ah, also admit to not being keen to return, as my last visit, were with the orphans, and things got... Rather heated. No charges filed, but I ah, got the distinct impression that the noble in question, did not enjoy being yelled at, nor were without means to make me pay for that.

I am not ah, proud of myself. I should not have lost my temper, regardless of what she said to the foals. But I ah, suppose I digress, yes? It is quite better here in Ponyville. If you look past the ah, attacks that is. Thankfully my home is far enough at the outskirts, to seemingly not draw attention, but I have a hard time finding joy in that, when seeing how it affects others in town.

*sigh* I also keep fearing one of these days, an attack like that, will result in more orphans... No foal deserves that..."

He'd look off into the distance, focusing on nothing in particular for a moment, while he absently took a sip more from his tea. His mind were going down a dark path, albeit briefly, as he'd soon return his full attention, to the present.

"And ah, in case you wonder, I do not think I were born in Ponyville, though I do know I were not raised here either. I grew up in Fried County. I ah, lived here some years though. The head orphanage mistress in Fried County, practically raised me, in the orphanage, and though she could be strict at times, I have her to thank, for me being the pony I am today. So I stayed in that area, until she died, five years past. I needed space after that, though I still make the trip to her grave, every year. Even if her ah, oldest grandfoal, were not thrilled to see me, for the first two. He had some... Less than fortunate views, on orphans. Had his sister not forced him to meet me on equal standing, and mediated things, I dare say he would still be attempting to chase me away from the graveyard.

I am thankful for his sister, getting him to open his eyes. She ah, have her grandmothers will. Quite strongly, I might add.

...I am not ah, rambling to much, am I? I am not ah, overly used to meeting with new ponies, like this. I am not a recluse, but I suppose I am not a social butterfly, you might say."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-07-17 at 12:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Then for the chili, which she took with hoof-full of the spicy crisps just to make extra sure nobody noticed anything, and her reaction....was equally as unremarkable as her reaction to most things, only indication that she even felt anything was the expected reaction of her body to the spiciness, slightly watering eyes, runny nose, and slight general redness around the face, her expression did not change, though she would have probably let out smoke if that would have been possible as a pony. After few moments of total silence, she just took another hoof-full.  She avoided touching it with anything else than her hoof, because with her pony form came the weaknesses of pony skin, and she didn't know if it could cause skin damage of some sort, not that it would have been a big problem, but annoyance is an annoyance. 

The thing with Dragon Chili, were that it could quite literally cause fire, in ponies. That is one reason, why it were so deadly. If it were not prepared correctly, the surface would cause a chemical reaction with saliva eventually, to cause flames to begin rolling. Right after the smoke, that were. Which were off course, not something the inside of a pony's mouth were made for. The lucky/smart, would have seen the smoke, and dived right into a bucket of water, head first at that point, which would just fry their teeth a little. A good dentist could deal with that, and they'd get off with a scare. The cocky, slow, or dumb though? They'd have the inside of their mouths fried, which could have lethal repurcussions. And that was just the coating. Princess forbid you ever swallowed any of it, and the flames began to build up there.

But the stuff that Leviathan had with her, were surface treated. Which yes, still made it hot, and for normal pony stomachs, would be impossible to digest. Practically fatal too, if one tried to eat it all, but unless Ruby were pony through and through in this form, it wouldn't hurt her. If she were though, the sweating would soon be the least of her worries, as the spice would begin to overwhelm, from her throat and down. A sudden, rapidly expanding, burning sensation, making her insides hurt like her stomach were having a hole burnt through it. That last bit being more of a sensation, than actuality, depending on the strength of her stomach lining.

If she were fully pony inside, she'd probably have to change, and potentially even run out, throw herself off the clouds, and begin to change form, to cease the pain. Her regular stomach lining would be easily able to handle this, as it were a treat meant for dragons, and she were a notch stronger throughout, than those who normally made these.

As for why, Leviathan had the surface treated version, instead of full on? Because despite it still being dangerous to touch by ponies, it were still milder, all things considered, and she weren't the biggest fan of full spice dragon chili. That were more something for the fire aligned dragons. Or earth. They tended to like to test their robust physique.

In case nothing happened, things would go along as follows.

On 2022-07-17 at 12:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Meal" Ruby said in slightly dismissive manner "You have a weird definition of a meal." her voice was slightly affected by the burning of the chili, but it was not to great extend. It may have seemed at first almost hostile response, as it was a serious sounding  statement rather than a joke, but if one paid attention to what was not mentioned, they could possibly see that it wasn't as black and white. 

"I wouldn't say I specifically like any of these, but they are not awful either, guess it's a matter of getting used to things, it is refreshing to have something spicy enough to taste like something." she quickly glanced at Charir "And I don't think he's entirely sure what to think."  she then in surprisingly playful decision, quickly poked Leviathan's out-sticking tongue with her hoof, the one covered in dragon-chili and very spicy crisp dust, and with voice so overly serious that it was humorous said "There was something on your face." 

Might be that he weren't feeling all that intrigued by what he were eating right now, but Leviathan still thought it had been worth every bit. It allowed him to have some tastes here from the pony world. And while yes, he were seemingly unsure how to feel about the tastes, it were still a valuable experience to him, in her mind. Cause if he were to live here proper, he'd have to get used to the equine world. And who knew? Some things like the games, he might even find fun, enjoyable, or in time, perhaps outright tasty. Better than to stick with the same few things, and just hoard, without making use of the most valuable resource, they as dragons had: Time. Time to live, and time to experience everything that were out there. As a magical dragon, he'd benefit even more, as there might be some things he could learn about his magic out there, that she didn't even know.

"We all have different tastes, yeah? That's why it's important to try and taste many things, so you can see if there's suddenly something surprisingly good, that you can sink your teeth into. Like, for me, I think my primary surprise wer-"

Her voice would be cut short, when Ruby out of absolutely nowhere, would flick her tongue with her hoof. The one with chili dust, which sure, were somethin she'd feel roar it's way across her tongue, but it wasn't so bad. She were just flabbergasted by the sudden, playful action. For a few seconds at least, at which point, she'd get a big, smug smile on her face, and she'd lean a bit on the table. Elbows on said table, and hands in a loose fist, on either side of her face, in a playful manner herself.

"Why thank you. Need that dust around your mouth, cleaned in return?"

She'd flicker her tongue playfully, like a snake tasting the air.

Perhaps not the best of strategies, but she couldn't help herself. Her wind dragon side, combined with the nice, calm atmosphere, were making her feel a little sassy.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"...Hi."

Hawk would raise a hoof, and greet. She still looked rather depressed, but it seemed like seeing Scarecrow, had made her think that either she wasn't as alone in being a freak as she thought initially, or that things could in fact be worse. She did look mighty odd at Lyriel though, as she approached, and took a step back, after the dryad briefly touched her surface.

"Wh- What are you doing?"

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to seem rude. It's just... I dunno. I've never seen anyone like you, yet you radiate a strange energy. Natural, yet... Twisted in some way. Not a tree, not a dryad, yet somehow natural... What might you be?"

"A freak."

"I'm sorry if I gave that impression. I didn't mean to-"

"Enough. Stitch? Take Hawk with you, and show her around. She will need your guidance. I will take things from here."

Stitch nodded, and quickly took off with Hawk, who were looking rather hurt, after she said she were a freak. Much to the dismay of Lyriel, who'd look after the odd mare, as she left.

"I did not mean to cause offense..."

"She have a hard time currently. I would ask that you leave her be.

Now then, you. What brings you to Sanctuary?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-07-17 at 12:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

As Chega and Sear were bit occupied with the whole not throwing up thing, it was left for Trox and Sheska to respond to the question, and Sheska was the one to start speaking first. "Someone shot a pellet that puffed out some kind of quick acting toxin, it was a direct hit to her face, so no doubt she was the target." "There was no further pellets after or before it, so that makes it even more likely that it was meant for her." "She was mid-sentence when it happened, and she didn't react before it was too late, so whoever it was, was far enough that her mind accessing ability didn't reach that far." Sear cut in for a moment "There was also no obvious perpetrators when I looked around." "And since you're probably going to ask it, besides the one you are also aware of..." Trox pointed at Stargazer when he said 'you' "...we have no idea who would want her dead, she hasn't talked about her enemies." The tone of both twins was the same dry tone Stargazer would be familiar with

Stargazer would be writing down what he were told. He could remember it fine enough, but it were good to have a paper trail, and just standing and listening, without dotting anything down, would make it seem like he just didn't care for the testimony. Something he had been familiar with a fair bit, considering his youth had not exactly been squeaky clean.

"Your friend are fortunate, that Dr. Toxina have decided to relocate here, to study the new changelings. She's in the best hooves possible.

As for your attacker, I am afraid that there can only be the conclusion you've likely come to as well. That you're being systematically targeted. Likely in relation to your assistance in saving the elderly couple, that you discovered earlier. I don't see any other who would do so, as any local that have trouble with changelings, are not this particular, in how they deal with things. A changeling specific toxin, hit with precision, and outside of the range of influence, speaks of a professional.

I'm afraid that until the culprit is discovered, you'll all remain in danger. Which includes your friend. I will gather up whatever colleague I have in town, that's passing through, and seeing if I can get a squad together. I'll make sure to send one here, to guard the hospital, and keep her under guard. As well as instruct the staff, to not place her in a room, near a window. The less exposure the better."

He'd dot these things down too, and internally, let out a small sigh. Times like this, really made him annoyed that he were the only official guard in town. Sure there were a few solar guards visiting, and he were fairly sure he even saw a coastal guard, if he were lucky, but he were the only permanent fixture. Closest other candidate, would be the forepony, that were following Princess Sparkle's commands, but far as he had been told, they had left town earlier, along with a large bug-like creature. He had regretted asking more after that.

"Can you tell me anything else? A direction the toxin might have been fired from, perhaps? I can understand if you didn't notice, yet I have to try and follow every potential lead, and clue."

He'd tap the paper a few times, then continue, as he looked at Trox, and Sheshka.

"Also, did you gather up the pellet, or is it still out there? I'd need to examine it, if possible."

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles would quietly sip on her drink as she listened to Honey Dew talk, when he mentioned the nobles, she would frown "Yes, even though my family is well off, the nobles would still look down on us" she would say "Celestia and Luna, however, well they would never look down on those who are less fortunate" she'd then think "The noble you mentioned, sounds a lot like Blue Blood, he is very entitled and throws a tantrum when he doesn't get what he wants, despite being a full grown stallion."

She then listen to him more about the attacks "I have always wondered why Ponyville is the one town to constantly get attacked,save for the one or two times on Canterlot, I might have to ask Twi that next time I see her" she then nods "I am glad you pay respects to the mare who practically raised you, and that her daughter hasn't bared you from doing so." she says, "And no, no, you're fine, I don't mind listening, I suppose you could say it is good for you to talk to someone, let a whole lot of stuff out" she giggles "I know there are times i wish I had someone to talk to"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Light would be very flustered from the unfiltered straight to the point topic that Shark is bringing up and tries to be professional Infront of the doctor.

" Uh-m-er-mm ... Yes." The brain fried, blushing Light replied.

"I wonder if you're flustering me on purpose Shark." Light kinda pouted at her. 

 

[Plum Blossom]

@Blitz Boom 

"Well, we just talked about what we do most of the time. As for animals, our families have cows and chickens an pigs and sheep. All the usual farm animals, you know," Plum Blossom and Apple Bloom explained.

"Of course the Apple family is the best at growing apples. What do you think we would be good at growing oranges or something in this kind of climate? Of course not! It's just like how the Plum family is the best at growing Plums around here," Plum Blossom explained. 

"Uh, who are you looking at?" Apple Bloom asked.

OOC: (Applejack isn't there.)

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-07-22 at 6:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Nighthaven Ironwood. Only grown, and sold, off of a small island, not far from Germane. Even if the residents use magical fertilizer, to make them grow faster, they still tend to mostly deal with select retailers, that buys everything they are offered. Getting any of this raw like this, is near impossible, unless you have connections. That said, I find her reasons believable. If they needed a quick delivery, her gates would be worth it for them, and this be seen as a substantial, yet important payment. You could make something rather unique from this, which would be hard to get hold of for most, outside of the top of society, Uddo.

Fair warning though: The name holds true. These are are tough as iron, and thus, you're going to need crystal told to work with them. Even then, it will take time, and effort. The deep, onyx coloration though, is persistent throughout it, and the durability is notable. It's sought out for a reason."

"Special wood. You make things with wood, yes? So good gift?"

“Well, I… wouldn’t say no to a gift, but it might take some time before I figure out how to work on this piece of special wood. Going to need some time to study it as well. It’s an odd gift, but pretty unique. Thank you, Miss Omen.”

“By crystal tools, Rosa, did you mean you mean those with crystal tips or tools made from actual crystal? Like actual shards?”

“It could mean either, but whatever those tools might be, I could think of this as a pet project. I wouldn’t know what I’d make with this ironwood, but I’m sure I’ll come up with something. Maybe one day, you might stop by our home and see what’s become of it.”

No doubt it was special, and Uddo understood why it was called that by Omen. However, being new to this sort of thing and never having worked on this type of material meant he had no idea where to begin with woodworking. Perhaps the local library might have some hints, so he isn’t entirely going in blind with a project involving it. Still, something about this and Rosa’s knowledge might be helpful while he was still here. Some could claim to be well-travelled, but having this much knowledge said a lot about the thestral. Maybe they could all hang out again some time in the future to talk casually about travel. Perhaps the family could look into having a vacation some time. The same could be true for his niece, nephew, and Miss Omen.

About the matter regarding exiles, it was a touchy subject that even with his persona experience couldn’t help too much. Uddo didn’t think about it too much until learning that Sen and Lin were subjected to it, even after explaining how the practice of exile was a method of getting rid of those who were considered too far gone to be rehabilitated. Was it still applicable, even after knowing how it can be abused? He put his old life behind him, but there was just enough for him to begin wondering about it again and whether he should start caring. All that knowledge just sitting in his head with barely any use…

On 2022-07-22 at 6:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Also, if I may be frank here? I have serious doubts of what constitutes a fair exile, from your society, at this point in time. What I have seen, does not speak of well, of how high a crime needs to be, for such a punishment. It seems even petty things, can lead to it, and thus, I currently do not have a substantial amount of faith, in your judicial system. I am open to be proven wrong, but I can only judge from the data I have, and currently, that isn't overtly flattering. Also something I will not mention to them, as I do not want to hamper my own attempt, by being judgmental from the beginning., Not of this, anyway.

In regards to those exiled, and perhaps yet alive... I will need to examine a few things, but it may be possible to have the Equestrian system work in your favor there. If they can become aware of your kin, and be presented with ways to communicate, and ultimately, how to deal with a longma, it could help them to understand the need to approach., As well as potential danger. This do not require the cooperation of the elders. Merely presenting the right arguments, to the correct pony. They would not spend resources to track down others, but if made aware, they can then deal with it constructively, instead of going under the assumption, that it is a dangerous creature they're dealing with, and acting accordingly.

There are also organisations that look for lost ones, as well as general adventuring groups, who tend to see this and that, but I'd need some time to look into the finer details, on who to contact. It would simply waste time, to go through the correct channels, only to end up being faced with one, who explains this not falling under their field of expertise, or jurisdiction."

“I could tell you about what is considered in an exile. Deliberations among the elder, his council, and those who were wronged. Normally, if there is a chance for the wrongdoer to be rehabilitated, convinced to change their ways and make up to the ones affected by their actions, then that is the first course of action. Only when the gravity of the crime is considered so severe that keeping the wrongdoer around will be detrimental to everyone that someone is exiled.”

“Hmph. Either that removing anyone unwanted conveniently without any process. Makes you wonder if anyone was ever exiled fairly…”

“Lin, please. This isn’t the time for that.”

Lin spoke up, incensed at what she heard. She wouldn’t say more, though Sen held her back in case this were to continue. It was understandably a sore spot, but their responses here said a lot about what they thought about how exile went about back home. Sadly, having been victims of an abuse of the practice meant they carried negative biases, among others, with the longma. 

“I’m sure you have ideas on how to look for those unfairly exiled, but this topic is a sore spot for Sen and Lin. Maybe we could speak of this more privately at another time, along with some suggestions on looking for those who are lost? I know you’ve got your thoughts on the matter, Sen and Lin, so I won’t pry further. Regardless, the question is fair and worth asking. If these aren’t questioned, then how would the longma improve, right? If you could humor this aging soul, please be careful about how you all go about when speaking with the longma.”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,598]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby had no worries, as she was only fully pony where it mattered for blending in, there were few reasons for it, one was simply because she didn't want it to be total, after all, why would she purposely make herself weaker against illnesses and substances when there was no way for anyone to check her insides without killing her? She also still preferred and needed meat, so why would have she changed her digestion to not allow that while in her pony form? Then there was also the question of safety, with transformation, like with anything else, more complexity meant more chances for things to go wrong, so less she had to change, the better. 

Ruby seemed to at least slightly enjoy Leviathan's reaction, mainly the surprise, though it probably wasn't surprising that a creature that seemed to take some joy out of suffering of others would also enjoy taking others off guard in more playful context, since surprise wasn't far from getting scared. Charir too was surprised but for him it was more because he again had no idea what the whole thing was about, partly thrown off by Ruby's serious tone since he wasn't really used to faked tones.

 

"Only if you want to be seen doing that." Ruby responded in...surprising tone, it wasn't all the way playful or flirty or any of those, but it did have an undertone to it. "But it would be only fair would it not?" it may have been surprising that Ruby didn't seem to go against Leviathan's remark, especially considering the population around them, but her usual lack of genuine playfulness was actually part reason why, she had no concept of decency like most ponies and other dragons had, hay, she seduced creatures for profit, so anything that didn't directly risk her disguise she had no problem with, and if she would have been honest, she would have admitted that Leviathan had started a tiny flame in her she didn't know had existed, nor did she really understand yet what it was.

 

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

Scarecrow didn't say anything regarding the interaction between Lyriel and Hawk, not that he would have helped, since his comment would have been something along the lines of there not being anything wrong about being a freak, which most likely would have made hawk to just feel worse. He did momentarily think about how Lyriel touched Hawk without hesitation while she hadn't touched him at all in fear of him infecting her somehow, he didn't mind it of course, since he was quite literally unable to care, and he did understand why it was, but he still pondered about it for few seconds.  

"Well..." Scarecrow said, gesturing at himself "I heard that there is at least a tiniest of chances that you could be able to, without a better term, kill me." "I've existed like this for long yet unknown length of time, I wish it to end, destroying my body doesn't work, I've tried that several times." he saw no reason to sugarcoat it "Though, while my wish is to cease, if you can come up with something that brings me the will to exist, that would most likely be a solution too." 

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

Chega and Sear had a serious demeanor as Stargazer spoke, they had known to expect danger, but they had not expected it to be this professional, though they weren't fully inexperienced with danger, after all, travelling was dangerous thing, there were criminals and wild creatures all over that saw lone wanderers like them as easy prey. Sheska and Trox meanwhile, while they too were relatively serious, their demeanor was less tense, being hunted by someone was basically a normal day for them, and it was hinted in their body language. 

For his questions, Chega was the first one to respond "She was talking to me when it hit her, so it came from behind me, and I was at that moment turned towards...." she though for a moment and than named whatever was the most notable landmark/building in the direction she had looked into  "....so it was from somewhere in the opposite direction from that." Trox was the one to respond the second question "We didn't pick it up, so until it was the kind to break apart on impact, it's probably still there." 

 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@AuroraGlimmer

"Ponyville have certainly been a focus point, in recent years, though it is sadly not too hard to ah, understand what caused it.

If you look at the timing of it all, with the rise of Princess Twilight, the attacks began to go up. Used to just be minor amount of forest creatures attacking, once in a while. After she and her friends began to ah, ascend, I suppose you can call it, it drew in others.

I am ah, not blaming the princess, of course. Things just gets drawn to her, because she is an important, increasingly powerful figure. It's ah, much the same, as what have happened with princess Celestia, over the millennia. Yet Princess Twilight, also have the distinction of being young, and therefor, seen as perhaps weaker, and easier to ah, deal with. As well as being an important figure, for diplomatic reasons. Dragons, changelings, and ah, the sphinx that came to town yesterday. She seems able to connect with others, and those who do not like bonds between our various races, will ah, naturally not like her, and want her gone.

...Although I can't say for certain, if the sphinx were her doing. He seemed to ah, be accompanied by others, and not have come for her, specifically."

It sure was an odd sight. The sphinx showing up, in the middle of town, yet not seeming like he had bad intentions. Even seemed to get along somewhat well, with the... Special filly, from the woods, that had been visiting again. Had been a short visit, before he took off, but regardless, it were quite the peculiar thing. As were the odd changeling on his back, and the pony beside her. He always assumed their kind, were too proud to let anyone ride them.

"Anyway, I ah, have to correct you on something. The daughter and I get along well enough. Her brother on the other hoof... I would like to say he were changed, but I think it more accurate to say, that he have been made to ah, tolerate things more. Which is still an improvement, I suppose.

As for Blue Blood, I ah, heard the name before. I don't think it was him, but I can't say for certain.

And yes, you are quite right, that it can be good to ah, vent a little. I don't have a lot I do that around normally, and it ah, sounds like that is the same for you.

I don't mind listening, if you need to vent frustrations yourself. Even ah, if it if at a later point in time. I wouldn't mind the socializing."

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

 

@Kujamih

"Mate's face get pretty color."

She'd rub her own cheek against his blushing one. Such a strange reaction to see, but it were pretty. Nice and red, with the blood surging more to his face. She weren't gonna bite him or anything, to make the blood flow, but she still liked to see it color his face like this. Not flowing. That was bad. Mate shouldn't be hurt.

"Awh, aren't you two just the cutest? And I take that as consent, so yey.

You know, you two look fairly fit too. Have you been shown the gym yet? Or the court? Might be just the thing for you, while you're going through the semester."

It would also be good for them, to socialize. As well as dunk on some other students in some games, which she assumed Light might like. She wasn't sure what it was, but Needlepoint really got the feeling, that he had a competitive streak to him.

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

 

@Skylight Scintillate

"Me? I was talking to... Huh. Thought I saw Applejack... Heh, I must've been distracted, and imagining things. Sorry."

She could've sworn she had seen Applejack, but apparently not. Her eyes had mostly been on Apple Bloom, so maybe a movement that made her think the elder sister were there too. Or she were just so looking forward to seeing her, that she wanted her to be present? Hard to say, but nevermind. A minor snafu, yeah? Nothing bad, or insulting.

"And I know they probably couldn't do oranges, but what about like... Pears? Pears could grow in this climate, right? Or berries. I dunno really. I've not been to a lot of farms like this. Sounds like having one is busy work though, if you gotta watch out for harvesting all these apples, and take care of the animals. And this place looks huuuge. Must be lots of ponies working this farm normally. How many are you, Apple Bloom? Like, 10? 15?"

Wasn't like she knew how many normally worked a farm., She just assumed it were a lot, since this place looked big.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

11 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Only if you want to be seen doing that." Ruby responded in...surprising tone, it wasn't all the way playful or flirty or any of those, but it did have an undertone to it. "But it would be only fair would it not?" it may have been surprising that Ruby didn't seem to go against Leviathan's remark, especially considering the population around them, but her usual lack of genuine playfulness was actually part reason why, she had no concept of decency like most ponies and other dragons had, hay, she seduced creatures for profit, so anything that didn't directly risk her disguise she had no problem with, and if she would have been honest, she would have admitted that Leviathan had started a tiny flame in her she didn't know had existed, nor did she really understand yet what it was.

"Well, if the lady insists, who am I to deny her?"

Leviathan would lean in closer, and slowly licked herself around the mouth, starring playfully at Ruby all the way, until she were about a hoof's width from touching Ruby.

A thin stream of water would get blown towards the dragoness in disguise, rolling gently around her mouth, and washing off the powder, before falling down unto Leviathan's risen hand, and running gently down her scaled arm. Wouldn't take more than a few seconds, but one could see her having quite the joyful time doing this.

When she were done though, she wouldn't lean back, but instead smirk slightly wider. Then out of nowhere, she'd rise her wet hand, and stroke Ruby down the side of her face, from ear to the left side of her mouth.

"Missed a spot."

She had been tempted to actually go in, and lick Ruby before. Heck, even during the whole thing, but she assumed she were gonna regret it if she tried. As in, Ruby might well throw her through a wall. Perhaps not in one piece. Though it were nice to know that she could be a little more familiar, and playful with her. Leviathan just still weren't ready to push too many limits at once. No need to rock this bridge too hard, too fast, right? Besides, Ruby were a female. It wasn't regular, y'know? She didn't have a problem with it happening to others or anything. It wasn't that. She just had a hard time imagining a life, where she couldn't in time, get her own eggs. Which would require a male.

...She supposed there were ways around that though, if she just used one f- Wait, hold up brain. Weird tangent to go on.

Usually her mind didn't go down those routes. How odd... Eh, she were sure it were nothing. Just the moment, and her playful nature, mixing together.

Anyway, she'd lean back, lest something else happened, and took another gulp of her soda.

"What a day, huh? Plenty happening, and it's still bright and full of possibilities. I bet something's gonna go bad soon, just top top it off. Your thoughts, Ruby?"

As for an audience... They got a few looks, but none stayed. Folks tended to come here for the games, not to gawk at others eating. And the owners couldn't care less about what happened, long as it were foal friendly. Excluding others for minor things like this, were bad for business.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Madamme Macabre listened in, to every word he said, before she made any comment of her own.

"Not many come here, wanting to die. Most spirits come to seek help passing on, or in rare cases, to understand what traps them here.

Follow me, and I will try and tear your soul from your husk, and force it onwards, if that is your desire. Yet know this: I have helped countless spirits pass on, but even I cannot understand, nor undo, the state which we call Purgatory. For some, time will free them, but others are trapped on this plane, and not allowed to move on. As if the reapers themselves, not only neglected to harvest them, but actively refuse them passage.

If you suffer from this, there is nothing I can do, to help you move on. Though perhaps, we can give you purpose still, and a place where you will not be judged. We have one in Purgatory already, spending her afterlife, into seeking a way to undo this, and have found herself some peace with that meaning in her unlife."

She'd lead them away from the larger house they had come to, and behind it, where a stone hut stood. Opening it, it would seem to be more or less, an empty place, with dust showing it had been some time since this were last used.

"Used to be where one of my grandaughters lived. She have moved since, and none have wanted to take up residency here yet. It should give us the privacy to try and release you. If you still so wish that? I can still show you other things, and give you a chance to see, if your mind changes?"

She would give him time to decide. If he did go through it though, Lyriel would come over, and embrace him in a gentle hug. Nothing bad would come to her for that, thankfully, yet she had been somewhat nervous. Without reason, it turned out.

She'd say her goodbyes, and wish him well in the lands beyond. She'd also assure him, that she would make sure Crow were taken care of, and that his body would be buried properly.

And then, she would move away, and with sorrowful eyes look, as Madamme Macabre took her scythe, and unfolded it. Yet, she turned it the other way, where another, spectral blade would instead emerge. Made by magic, and whatever enchantments were on the scythe, it seemed. And when time then came, she'd swing it, tearing the blade through his soul. Something which normally, would harvest them, and tear them from their body. Scarecrow however... It would probably cause some sort of reaction, or emotions even, but it probably wouldn't be able to drag him out of his husk. And even then, not for long.

If he said he wanted to try and find reason to stay instead, she'd nod, and go away from the hut. They'd go find something to look at, and see if any of it, gave him a will to stay.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I'll go see what I can find, and inform you, if there's anything new in the case. In the meantime, I'd strongly suggest you stay here, and I'll send a competent colleague to help keep watch. It would be best to not give your attacker, more chances to finish off the work, that have been started."

If there were nothing else, he'd move out then. He had a dangerous individual to find, and that would begin with finding clues, and searching in the directions he could. Considering the position, he had three places in mind, where the shot could have come from, that he needed to check up on. Hopefully, there would be something of note, to find in any of those places, cause right now, he had precious little to work with.

The doctors would keep working on Onache, as the minutes ticked by, and the ceaseless noise, of the hospital, would flutter around them.

About twenty minutes would pass though, and they'd get to see a familiar face again, headed right for them.

"We meet again. Though I'm sorry it's not under better circumstances."

Sergeant Harpoon had jumped on the protective detail, as soon as Stargazer had told her what happened. As a guard, and one who were grateful towards what had happened, when she met them before, she wouldn't just sit on her rear, and not do her part in helping here.

"How is she doing?"

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-07-23 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Well, I… wouldn’t say no to a gift, but it might take some time before I figure out how to work on this piece of special wood. Going to need some time to study it as well. It’s an odd gift, but pretty unique. Thank you, Miss Omen.”

“By crystal tools, Rosa, did you mean you mean those with crystal tips or tools made from actual crystal? Like actual shards?”

“It could mean either, but whatever those tools might be, I could think of this as a pet project. I wouldn’t know what I’d make with this ironwood, but I’m sure I’ll come up with something. Maybe one day, you might stop by our home and see what’s become of it.”

"Diamond tipped works the best, as far as I have been made aware. Regular steel, will not even scratch the bark, much less the wood below it. If you can get tools made fully of gems, that would work well too, and specifically, diamond. There's some fairly inexpensive ones that can be used for these, since diamond is by and far, the most abundant gem around. More scarce gems, becomes more costly, even if some of them might last a few years longer, if the tools are handled with negligence. You're a proficient woodworker. I cannot imagine you, treating your tools poorly.

As for what to make, I will look forward to it with interest. Just remember my words: It is incredibly sturdy wood. Something practical, that is not meant to be covered, could provide interest from others. And if they wish for authenticity, offer them a regular knife, to stab into the table. It will bend before the wood gets a scratch. I know this from experience."

Nothing too exciting. He had been working as a dealer in some shady market. A middle man, and nothing else really. During it, he had run into a vendor, selling authentic ironwood tables, and he asked participants to use a knife to prove it, if they were interested. Having been tasked to find one such item, Rosa were intrigued, but due to not trusting the knives might not be bad, he asked if he could use a knife of his own. A steel dagger, specifically. And after it being examined for any crystal edges, he were given free reign. And albeit he made a good slash, that he knew were well places, the wood stood as pristine as it had before. Same could not be said for his dulled knife though.

His contact had been pleased with the purchase made, afterwards. Probably less so, with him finding his internal business documents missing three days later, but Rosa were well past the boundaries of the country by then. And considering what had been taken, he knew the griffon wasn't going to the authorities.

"As for your future plans with it, I look forward to seeing what you will in time, decide for it. I am certain it will be something marvelous."

On 2022-07-23 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I could tell you about what is considered in an exile. Deliberations among the elder, his council, and those who were wronged. Normally, if there is a chance for the wrongdoer to be rehabilitated, convinced to change their ways and make up to the ones affected by their actions, then that is the first course of action. Only when the gravity of the crime is considered so severe that keeping the wrongdoer around will be detrimental to everyone that someone is exiled.”

“Hmph. Either that removing anyone unwanted conveniently without any process. Makes you wonder if anyone was ever exiled fairly…”

“Lin, please. This isn’t the time for that.”

Lin spoke up, incensed at what she heard. She wouldn’t say more, though Sen held her back in case this were to continue. It was understandably a sore spot, but their responses here said a lot about what they thought about how exile went about back home. Sadly, having been victims of an abuse of the practice meant they carried negative biases, among others, with the longma. 

“I’m sure you have ideas on how to look for those unfairly exiled, but this topic is a sore spot for Sen and Lin. Maybe we could speak of this more privately at another time, along with some suggestions on looking for those who are lost? I know you’ve got your thoughts on the matter, Sen and Lin, so I won’t pry further. Regardless, the question is fair and worth asking. If these aren’t questioned, then how would the longma improve, right? If you could humor this aging soul, please be careful about how you all go about when speaking with the longma.”

"I am not saying the idea in and by itself, does not have merit. And I am certain that when it were implemented, there were a fair, just process to it. Yet as Lin justifiably touches upon, it have been abused, to instead remove those whom are seen as inconvenient to keep around. Perhaps it have not been abused in a widespread manner. But the fact that it have been at all, should raise questions about the legitimacy of every conviction, where there were no shadow of a doubt, about the guilt, and whatever it were enough to justify what is essentially a near death sentence.

I am well aware, that this will essentially be me, questioning the legitimacy of the elders, and their judgement. Indirectly calling them able to fall to corruption, and abusing power for personal gain. Which is why I am not bringing this matter up, anytime soon. If ever I speak of exile, it will start from the perspective, of one wanting to be educated, in something they are unfamiliar with. From the perspective of the longma, that is. Questioning your leaders will be something best saved for far later, if I can get to a point, where they will have seen the positive impact, that they could get, from dealing at least sparsely, with the outside world. And even then, I would be careful of my words."

He would not put emotion in this. Not even when speaking of how Lin were obviously affected. And rightly so, he might add. Yet much like when he'd in time, be required to speak with the elders, he needed to remain rational, and neutral here. Present his points, and responses, whilst not showing any obvious degree of bias. If he began getting emotional, it would simply harm his case. Though of course, he could explain factually that yes, he did have personal interest in the outcome of things, but doing so whilst presenting himself as rational, and willing to listen to critique, among other things, without becoming irrational, or upset.

"Regardless, as you put it, it might be best if we discuss this another time, in a more private setting even. I would not want to be the cause of duress, and certain questions might come up, that will stir things. Rest assured though, that I will take your words to heart, in regards to how to converse with your kinsmen. I will approach them fairly, and respectfully.

I thank you for your time this evening, Uddo, Kiba, and Shade. May we meet again, in the not so distant future."

Seeing how the night appeared to be coming to an end, it would seem to be time, to go on, and leave them be. He were sure they had things to discuss, about this unusual night. As would they, but that would be best done, away from scrutinizing eyes. SO for now, he'd say his goodbyes, and bow cordially towards their host, his son, and the umbra.

Edited July 24, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

She'd nod a little as she listened "Yes, I suppose that would make sense, having a pony with so much power in town would certainly attract a lot of attention, especially the bad kind as it would seem" she agrees with him, then raising an eyebrow "A Sphinx came here once? I thought those were only a myth, but then..I hear the town's also seen a Minor Ursa and a slew of villains many ponies think are just tales" she says, finishing her drink.

She'd nod some more "Yes, sadly, even if it wasn't Blue Blood you had met, the nobles there are quite..elitist, unfortunately" she then hears what he says about the matron of the orphanage's family "Oh, I'm sorry, but it is good he at least tolerates you now, feuds are never fun" she says, having witnessed a few during her time both in Canterlot and at the School.

"I'm happy to listen and thank you, I may take you up on that, I do sometimes get frustrated and need to vent, so I appreciate the offer"

[Catpone Cerberus 23,598]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby's expression was mostly unchanging when Leviathan got closer, the only change being with her eyes as she followed her movement, though when she blew the water, there was slight surprise from Ruby, she didn't know why, but she hadn't actually considered Leviathan using actual water, she had expected her to lick her, something that, while certainly would have been weird, wouldn't have actually bothered her, mainly because she didn't have that intimate connection to it, as her kind just wasn't intimate kind, everything from kissing to romantic gestures were just weird if anything. Even when there was unwanted attempts, mainly from stallions when she was in this form, the problem was rarely the action itself, and more the fact that it challenged her control. 

Her reaction to the whole thing was...surprisingly positive, she didn't smile, and it did in honesty annoy her a bit that her fur was now wet, but that annoyance was not towards Leviathan, and rather the fact that she had fur in the first place, and the way she looked at Leviathan was more positive-kind of annoyance, the 'okay, you got me' kind, and while there wasn't a straight up smile, the edges of her mouth were more up than down. "Got what I asked for." she finally stated in very nonchalant manner, before starting to clean her hoof from rest of the powder by licking it, maybe bit gross for some creatures, but as she was a creature that ate rotting animals for meals, she didn't even think about hygiene in that context.

Charir meanwhile was more confused than ever, he didn't have any context for this type of behavior, so from where he looked, he just saw Leviathan spray Ruby with water and Ruby didn't as much as blink a warning, and that conflicted with pretty much everything he knew, he couldn't even feel her getting annoyed at it, he knew she had to keep up the disguise but there should be still some signs of anger.

"Yeah, it has been way too pleasant." Ruby responded as she finished with her hoof "Nobody has even attempted any bad pick up lines." "This must be a new record." she half expected someone she didn't remember to suddenly just appear and try to threaten her, she didn't like peace, it made her nervous. 

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

Scarecrow nodded in understanding, he hadn't been aware of this specific possibility, but he was more than aware that this may not work, he didn't even really have high hopes for it, since pessimistic viewpoint on this made sure that at least he couldn't be disappointed, not that disappointment felt like anything either. "Yes, let's do it, I've had more than enough time to consider this." He wished Lyriel good future as response to her actions, and while he couldn't really share the moment of emotion, he was glad nothing happened to her when she touched him, that would have been unfortunate. 

When the blade hit, something indeed happened, at first it looked almost like some kind of success, as a featureless form of a stallion, not too different from the ghost-mare they had seen in the Everfree was pushed partly out of Scarecrow, but in mere moments, from all holes of the skull, black tendrils shot out and grabbed on the stallion, both wrapping around and stabbing into him, latter of which caused soundless reactions of pain, pulling him back into the skull. While the black tendrils looked like they were part of the growth on Scarecrows body, they were not physical, and instead were in same incorporeal form as the shape of a stallion. 

There was a brief struggle but ultimately the spirit was pulled back into the skull, though even after that for some seconds Scarecrow's body stood still with eyes dark, but after those seconds the eyes lit up again and Scarecrow collapsed letting out a horrific cry of pain. Any further attempts if done would only darken the eyes for moments before they would light up again followed by pain. After some moments, Scarecrow got back up and stated in his usual unfeeling voice "So, that's what pain feels like, it was oddly comforting." 

 

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

While waiting for something to happen, Chega had started to think about songs, she hummed quietly to herself while 'playing' her instrument, which meant that she moved her arms like she was playing it, but didn't actually make any sound, she did this because she didn't want to bother anyone, and because she was coming up with a song as she did. Sear meanwhile was near Chega, watching her to do her thing with smile on her face, while also staying aware of their surroundings. 

Sheska and Trox meanwhile were discussing something quietly to themselves, but any attempt to listen in was no use as they spoke different language, Chega recognized it as some kind of kobold-language, but the dialect was such that even she had no idea what they were saying.  

Sear was the one to respond to Harpoon "She was violently convulsing when we left the room, haven't heard anything after that." "Nobody has come out or gone in so my guess is that it's bad but she's alive." 

 

 

 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

" I see... But of course, I leave that to our honorable guide's decision." Light suggested and looked at bubble's approval.

"But then again... " Light looks at Shark with a bit of worry and curiosity.

"Will Shark behave, I wonder."

The last time they encountered something fast and bouncing, would excite Shark too much that others are having a hard time.

" No matter. As your mate, it is my duty to support and assist you in anyway, and make each other a better pony..." He'd then hug Shark.

" But still... You need to behave Shark." He smiles towards her. 

 

Edited July 24, 2022 by Kujamih

[Widdershins 9,959]

On 2021-10-09 at 7:05 AM, Blitz Boom said:

@Widdershins

"If... If I burst into flames, I'd die. O-Or worse."

Cover Up had a tick at his eye as he said that, as the image of himself, covered in large spots of bubbled, burnt flesh came to mind again. He did his best to just push it aside, but something told him that he were going to have nightmares about this for some time to come. Maybe if he focused on something else for now, it'd be better?

"And uhm... T-Thank you for the compliment, sir. I don't know how to do a lot of things, but I've always had a talent for painting. When I got my mark, my mother made this brush for me, and my father the ink well. I've been painting since. Mostly on creatures. These tribal marks, that Equestrians call tattoos, are interesting to make. Not a lot wanting them around here though."

With his art done, he'd direct his brush above it, as the magic going over his horn changed from pale black, to pale white. And as it did, the brush would absorb the ink he had written on the ground with. Once it were all gone, it would go to the ink well, and deposit it back in there, before the large cork got stuck in it once more.

"I uhm... C-Can also take ink, and some black paint off of things. I'm hoping to be good enough to work with colors someday, but maybe that's just a dumb d-dream though.

Do you... B-Burst into flames a lot? Is that a thing for Kirin? I never heard of your k-kind before, so I don't know these kinds of things. Sorry. Nothing like you live, or unlive, in Harrowmark, or around our town. W-Well, the ruins of it now, I guess."

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

Whett Kindle averted his eyes around in various places, skittish & avoidant as if suspicious but still excited as they continued walking into Ponyville.

 "Oh, well we are rather a rare species I have heard. Because doubtless we're  not the best at, ah, surviving or building our own towns. But yeah... It's, like, an emotional flame really. More spiritual than elemental. It burns but not, like, in the same way fire-fire does, you know man? I never really looked much into myself as its a lot of shamanistic magic and natural balance stuff. Most my family wasn't all that big on actually conveying information & explaining things so much as just reacting.

 Been working on that whole balancing ya self stuff! Been hoofin' it around the world now to find & appreciate nature and connect with my surroundings. It really helps to take time to yourself...

 ...We there yet?"
 He would then snap his attention back to Cover Up in sudden, intent eye contact with a seeming crackle of sparks. The larger stallion might have had many things going for them to be intimidating, size or their incendiary coat of scales, but his tone of voice was jovial enough to sound like a lifetime of chasing goals. It was that odd, hardwired habit of snapping back in & out of intense focus that carried a sinister inclination. Like he wasn't the pony you trusted with anything breakable, explosive or any large, red, clearly labeled buttons.

______________________________________________________________

@Sekel & @Blitz Boom

 Kaltrop sat next to Dawn Streak on the front steps of the candy shop still where he was back on his haunches, catlike, and casually remarking on conversation. He regarded Dazzle's stance on her heritage.

  "Pah. Personality isn't anything to do with what species you are. Sure, I might have been raised in a society, I might not charge headfirst at challenges like most dragons do. I prefer to fly around things and take a good long look first & learn first. The way you think doesn't make you any more, or any less a part of whatever group you think you are. You own the place you make.

 I'm the best dragon because I say I am. "

 He would lean forward onto his front claws he had previously been gesturing with as usual, to strike a pose to show pride.

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-07-24 at 7:20 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Diamond tipped works the best, as far as I have been made aware. Regular steel, will not even scratch the bark, much less the wood below it. If you can get tools made fully of gems, that would work well too, and specifically, diamond. There's some fairly inexpensive ones that can be used for these, since diamond is by and far, the most abundant gem around. More scarce gems, becomes more costly, even if some of them might last a few years longer, if the tools are handled with negligence. You're a proficient woodworker. I cannot imagine you, treating your tools poorly.

As for what to make, I will look forward to it with interest. Just remember my words: It is incredibly sturdy wood. Something practical, that is not meant to be covered, could provide interest from others. And if they wish for authenticity, offer them a regular knife, to stab into the table. It will bend before the wood gets a scratch. I know this from experience."

“I’ll keep that in mind. Been thinking about getting some better tools for special projects, and it might help expand the kind of inventory I could keep at the shop. Might even give Kiba something to learn before he takes over the business.”

“Don’t worry about it, father. I could start looking into who can provide those tools tomorrow.”

“Eager to start, huh? That’s good.”

Kiba was beaming with excitement as he and Shade hauled the ironwood sample inside the workshop, likely finding some place in the storage room to set it down. It may be an interesting gift, but it might be one that could attract unwanted interest or attention. Without the proper tools or knowledge to get anything made from it for now, the store wouldn’t do well with customers knowing about it but its owners having no way of making anything from it. It’ll reflect badly on them, especially if one of Canterlot’s more affluent citizens were to come in. 

As for Uddo, he stood by and waited for a bit, though he was pleased with how the evening went, getting to know Sen, Lin, Omen, and Rosa better, and spending a good time with them. Likewise, the siblings were feeling better, mostly full from good food, but being in positive company was just as good. Rosa bowing and generally showing an understanding of some longma practices with interest in knowing more was… oddly good? For one, he didn’t like the idea that he was entertaining someone’s interest in the longma, but knowing someone actually cared this much to know about them probably meant there was a good shot at things getting better back in the forest. Maybe this cause was worth supporting, even if indirectly.

By then, Kiba and Shade were back, and they all bid their farewells, albeit not in the same way as the bowing that the older longma knew. Kiba gave everyone a more common hoofshake while Shade continued to stare at the others, though he was seemingly vocalizing a little more. Well, grunting, but it was more noise than normal. Likewise, Sen and Lin bowed, as was their custom, but they were more than comfortable enough at this point to return the more contemporary gestures in kind.

On 2022-07-24 at 7:20 PM, Blitz Boom said:

""Regardless, as you put it, it might be best if we discuss this another time, in a more private setting even. I would not want to be the cause of duress, and certain questions might come up, that will stir things. Rest assured though, that I will take your words to heart, in regards to how to converse with your kinsmen. I will approach them fairly, and respectfully.

I thank you for your time this evening, Uddo, Kiba, and Shade. May we meet again, in the not so distant future."

“All of you, stay safe, be careful, and we wish you the best in what you’ll be doing! Come back anytime if you need anything!”

The group would start walking away from the workshop, waving goodbye and reciprocating their farewells. Upon turning a corner, Sen would break the temporary silence. Wherever they need to go now, the siblings will follow, though a curious thought came to the longma. At the same time, Lin remained a little more reserved and silent in contemplation, thinking about her earlier outburst of words and emotions, at least for a moment before turning her attention to the present.

“You and Omen seem to be getting along well with Uddo and Kiba, huh Rosa? Sounded like you’ve had plenty to talk about. You know, now that you’ve got a place of your own, maybe it might be best if we don’t take advantage of it. We still got that cave in the outskirts of Canterlot, and you’ve got a right to your privacy.”

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Catpone Cerberus

As if called upon by a misfortunate star, someone did in fact, show up to speak with Ruby, at that exact moment. At first, the interruption made Leviathan's scales spark with annoyance, and electricity. This felt like a nice moment, where they finally got along better, and then someone dared to get in their way!?

Yet as she looked over, she'd see a familiar face, and tone things down some. The electricity halted at least, as she saw him take a step backwards, in response to her reaction. She had apparently, made a good enough impression, on what she felt about his presence.

"What do you want, Diego?"

The stallion were dressed in more black than usual, as he were in public mourning, about his mothers passing. How he felt in truth... He'd rather keep that to himself. No need to tarnish his mothers memory, by vocalizing if he believed she deserved what came to pass, or not. His father would not have liked it either, enamored as he were, with the ice-cold mare. And he respected his father's memory enough, to halt his own words, for the time being.

"No need for hostilities. I come not bearing bad news. I was merely hoping that perchance, you would see Spicy again, and were willing to bring a message?"

He'd pull forth a sealed letter, along with a pouch of coins. Leviathan were a dragon after all, and as he had heard there were another one too, he knew what to bring. one did not simply ask favors, of dragons.

"There is no rush, and there should be adequate payment here, to simply pass along this, when next you meet, yes?

Ah yes, and I don't believe we've met. Diego Pennyworth the Third. A pleasure."

He'd reach a hoof out towards Charir, which would make Leviathan smirk. She doubted he hadn't the faintest clue what were going on here, but it were still funny to her.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

For a brief moment, they both thought it were over. Lyriel saw his soul exit, and like Macabre, assumed that this were it, and that he'd be able to get rest now.

Yet they were left to gaze in confusion (Macabre) and horror (Lyriel), as dark tendrils emerged from the skull, wrapping itself around his spirit, as well as jabbing into it, like hooks, to keep it there. The looks of it, made it apparent too, this this were a painful process, which were hardly any surprise. Damaging the soul were something that touched upon your very core, and as were obvious from this, his were not allowed to leave. No matter the pain set upon it.

Yet, Macabre did not try and strike again. She had seen enough, to have a grasp of what she might actually end up doing, were she to continue. Especially when the otherwise pain-void Scarecrow, would let out a scream, as he were set back into his head proper. She wouldn't know it wouldn't be as effective the next tries, if she had attempted. She were instead assuming that she'd just do nothing more, than torture him pointlessly. And she were not an evil mare, with that sort of want in her life.

"Scarecrow? Earth Mother guide us, what just happened?!"

"I am not sure, but whatever it is, I can say this much: This is not the works of the reapers, nor anything natural. Somepony did this. This is the only thing I know with certainty, for it is not natural, to be forced to remain in your own body like this. Especially not with such darkness.

Is it a curse? Were you an experiment in eternal life, gone wrong? Or did you merely offend a god, in ways making them want you to be punished, over and over, with no end? It could be either, or none. It is quite troubling...

It appears that I cannot separate you properly. Even if I put more strength in, I doubt it would cause more than pain to you, and potentially damage your soul in unpredictable ways. And that is not the way of my clan.

I would think it best that we move to the archives. I have not seen anything like this, but the tomes are vast and numerous. There may be something hidden within. Yet be warned: It might take long to find something. Alluria have attempted to go through the library for six centuries, and have yet to see all.

Though I suppose for a start, the experience. You spoke of pain? Is there anything else you can tell me, of how you experienced things? It may offer some clues."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I'd be more worried when they do show up. If they're still in there, it means they're probably still working on her."

It would be a few more minutes after that, with Harpoon mainly looking around, trident at the ready, in case somepony tried to approach, who shouldn't. Yet the only one who would, would be the doctor, coming in from behind. She'd be taking off her mask before addressing them, though what they'd likely focus on first, were the spatters of neon-green liquid on said mask, and various parts of the rest of her. And that it reeked. It wouldn't be possible to go with a distinct bad smell, but it would be the sort that's make you think of one of the worst thing you had ever smelled, mixed with copious amounts of sugar.

"How's the patient?"

"Alive. That toxin is a nasty little thing. A lot of changelings have been lost to that, before a cure were found. Some have been around me, cause there weren't anything ready... The queen's lucky that I make sure to always have several vials around, just in case.

Before you ask though, you can't talk to her. She's in a coma. Could be a few hours, could be a few weeks, but she'll wake up. Probably sooner than later, since you got her here so quickly."

"Anything you can tell us about the poison?"

"It's from Neighpon. Essentially, it breaks into their system, and infects the emotional food in their stomach. If that isn't expunged, it will cause a persistent, magical fungi to grow in their stomachs. It won't kill them, but it will devour any emotion they try to eat. Unable to absorb emotions, they will either feed it so much, that it grows larger than them, and crack out through the shell, or they'll end up going feral from mind hunger.

Not a big issue for other races, as a little anti magic clears it easy, but anti magic kills changelings. The whole intend behind this horrific creation in the first place. So it either needs to be flushed out quickly, or there is a less than 10% chance that it can be removed, falling by an additional percent every hour.

Your friend is thankfully safe, but the fact that anypony have that horrific thing in their possession in this area, means that I have to send out a medical emergency alert, to warn to every changeling in town."

"...I agree. The public unrest will be bad, but if it saves lives, it is the priority. As will be calling for backup from Canterlot. We will need to put this city on lockdown."

This were getting a bit more serious, by the hour. Though having been told what they had, Harpoon at least, had to agree, that they couldn't prioritize averting panic, over the lives of the citizens.

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

 

@AuroraGlimmer

"Yes, the sphinx were here yesterday, in fact. Came in fromt he direction of Canterlot, and landed right in the town square. It were quite the ah, sight to behold. Many seemed intimidated at first. You know their ah, reputation, after all. Then Blitz - the explosive filly from the forest - went over and talked with him, and it seemed to ah, brighten his mood. Quite the laughter he had, and that part, seemed to ease a fair bit of worries.

Surprised you didn't notice. Though ah, his visit were rather short lived. Ten, fifteen minutes at most, I think it were, before he flew to the forest. What happened since, I do not know. Still, just good to have had a surprise visit, that did not end in damages, yes? Usually not how it goes, when we have ah, exotic guests."

Personally, he had been quite fearful, but thankfully, nothing had come to pass. If anything, it gave the orphans a new, fascinating sight. Though he really should get to learn more about what had transpired, for that sphinx to get here. Seemed like a massive oversight from the princess, to not have mentioned that.

"As for ah, the stallion in question, we still do not hang around. I am just pleased with me being able to visit Sister August's grave, without causing a scene. She would not have wanted that.

About the venting then... Do you ah, have something to get off your chest currently? I do not try and ah, force anything, of course, I am just... I suppose, searching for a topic to speak about. I am as said, not all that used to such ah, social interactions like this."

Basically, he had run out of topics, and hoped she had more. If not... He weren't sure what exactly, they were going to do. As said, he were not used to this.

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

 

@Kujamih

"Might be a good idea to move on then. The day only have so many hours and all, yes? Goodbye for now, doctor."

While he talked to Needlepoint, Shark would be responding to Light, and his concerns, in the serious manner that it demanded. By booping her snoot against his, and grin widely.

Might not be the most serious thing for ponies, but for her, she didn't see what all the strange faces were about. They were going to see another place. Didn't mean she'd go and attack anyone. Silly mate, and his silly ideas, hehe.

"I always... Beeee-haaaa-veeee. Behave. I always behave, hehe."

She'd nuzzle him, then bounce away, and over to the door. She only stopped briefly, to wildly swing a hoof in a wave, towards the doctor. See? She were doing good, being a pony. Just like the others.

After saying their goodbyes, they'd go further away, and soon enough, open a door to the sports field. Well, one of them. The outdoor area were further out than this, but the tennis, badminton, weights, etc. were all here, sectioned out to not interfere with one another, and if need be, have some walls around, for whatever reason. In some cases, safety.

And Shark behaved well. Even as a tennis ball flew over, and nearly hit her, she'd be totally fine. She snagged it out of the air with her teeth, and would begin to violently shake it from side to side, in her mouth. She assumed this were some sort of bird, though it didn't taste good. Very yuck.

Probably one of the courts that needed their slightly perforated ball. Mayhap a good way to start here, were to find that one.

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

 

@Widdershins

On 2022-07-25 at 5:00 AM, Widdershins said:

Whett Kindle averted his eyes around in various places, skittish & avoidant as if suspicious but still excited as they continued walking into Ponyville.

 "Oh, well we are rather a rare species I have heard. Because doubtless we're  not the best at, ah, surviving or building our own towns. But yeah... It's, like, an emotional flame really. More spiritual than elemental. It burns but not, like, in the same way fire-fire does, you know man? I never really looked much into myself as its a lot of shamanistic magic and natural balance stuff. Most my family wasn't all that big on actually conveying information & explaining things so much as just reacting.

 Been working on that whole balancing ya self stuff! Been hoofin' it around the world now to find & appreciate nature and connect with my surroundings. It really helps to take time to yourself...

 ...We there yet?"
 He would then snap his attention back to Cover Up in sudden, intent eye contact with a seeming crackle of sparks. The larger stallion might have had many things going for them to be intimidating, size or their incendiary coat of scales, but his tone of voice was jovial enough to sound like a lifetime of chasing goals. It was that odd, hardwired habit of snapping back in & out of intense focus that carried a sinister inclination. Like he wasn't the pony you trusted with anything breakable, explosive or any large, red, clearly labeled buttons.

"P-Please sir, be calm. We're there soon, just... S-Slowly moving to town."

Cover Up got a jolt of nervous energy, when he saw how Whett were suddenly sparking up. They had scarcely gotten to the edge of the forest, and were just about looking at the edges, of the first farm, leading towards Ponyville. A large grain farm, to be exact. The sort that very much needed to NOT be set on fire!

"I k-know you're excited, but here, if you s-set this field aflame, it... It will cause the l-locals to go hungry. They need the grain. So p-please sir, try and calm yourself.

I-Is there something that normally helps you? A s-song, a smell, a s-snack of some sort? Anything?"

He might sound desperate, but that were the thing. He were. If Whett accidentally set fire to this farm, they'd both get in huge trouble. Like, torches and pitchforks, kinds of trouble. And who could blame anyone for that, when they'd be lacking bread then, for the foreseeable future? They were in autumn after all. Harvesting were soon, and then, it had to last through the winter. If it was burned now, it were all for naught.

"I'm... I'm s-sorry if I misunderstand it, and you couldn't set it on fire, b-but I just... F-Fire is fire to me. I don't k-know any better."

Times like this, he actually missed Zinthar. Sure the overgrown cat were... Creepy and dangerous, but at least he seemed to prefer Cover to be alive, and he couldn't say for sure, if it were the same with Whett. If only the large cat hadn't taken off with Crescent... I-It just seemed like such a relief at the time.

As for the here and now, the commotion were starting to get attention, with one of the workers on the farm they were nearing, calling out to them.

"Hey. Everythin' alright there? You folks ain't lost or somethin'?"

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

 

@Widdershins @Sekel

"Heh, you sure got the pride of a dragon. And I get it, y'know? You're your own dragon, and not the sort who's gonna accept second best, right? The best cause you want it to be true.

I had it a lot like that once, but I found there were more than just that."

Benny would wander over, and have a seat next to the dragon. Seemed like it were time for him to tell a little story here. Good question if Kaltrops would listen, but he'd try at least.

"You're gonna be seeing that too now, that you got someone in your life. Cause to get your relationship to work, you need to look yourself in the eyes, and understand that you aren't the best. You can get better, and you know what's the motivation for that? Her. Don't just tell her that you're the best dragon she'll ever meet. Show it to her. Work on yourself, to get as polished of a gem you can get. Prove there ain't no better dragon in the world, for her to lay her eyes upon.

I know it ain't easy for everyone. I were a big ol' softie before I got here, and met with Pop, so I had less boundaries to break. But you're gonna need to lower a lot of your defenses around her, if you want this to work. Few steps at a time though, yeah? Don't force it too much.

And heh. Perhaps not start yelling about you two doing it again. I'm pretty sure if her face got much redder, she'd pass out from all the blood rushing to her head."

He'd give a big 'ol grin to Kaltrops at the end there, friendly and jovial as ever. Wasn't gonna be an easy sell, to make him lower his guards, and show that he wasn't as perfect as he pridefully said, but in time, he'd hopefully see that he needed to. Cause he couldn't work on his flaws, if he refused to acknowledge them in the first place. Speaking before he thinks, seemed an obvious first one to address, heh.

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

 

 @EQ_Theta

On 2022-07-25 at 4:22 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’ll keep that in mind. Been thinking about getting some better tools for special projects, and it might help expand the kind of inventory I could keep at the shop. Might even give Kiba something to learn before he takes over the business.”

“Don’t worry about it, father. I could start looking into who can provide those tools tomorrow.”

“Eager to start, huh? That’s good.”

"Then I wish you luck in your endeavors. I shall look forward to the day, when you have arrived at a plan, and brought it to fruition."

It really wasn't simple to work with, but done right, it were well worth it. Which they'd see in due time, once they made something for it. It wasn't easy to get something made from this, if you did not have connections, and especially this far from Germane. Could well be that a certain high society pony, whom had given positive attention to the longma, when they had arrived, helping them attain a living, should be the first made aware, in fact. Giving him the first opportunity to get what were made of this, seemed an appropriate thing, considering he had given Uddo a first opportunity as well.

If it then came to be, that there would be more of a demand, and... Actually, perhaps this were something he should voice to them instead.

He'd follow them as they'd go and store the log elsewhere, and when the opportune time arrived, he would utter something. An idea, that had sparked in the moment.

"A thought occurred to me. Two, as a matter of fact. The first being that when you have made something, to perhaps bring word to the esteemed high socialite, that helped you along in the first place, Uddo? Perhaps he would not want to purchase it, but it seems poetic in a way, to offer him first chance, as this would be something meant for a higher priced market, than those such as myself, or Omen.

Which brings me to the second one. I were pondering, that if this causes a potential demand, that I would bring a proposition before you.

As you were told, Omen have earlier, gotten this log, for helping the bat ponies with transport. Their normal ways of transportation, is by boat, and there is a substantial cost in that, from start to finish. One they still profit from, of course, but perhaps if they were offered Omen's assistance in transporting large quantities, not only to mainland Germane, but anywhere they'd want, it would present her an ideal job? One which specifically, she might be paid more for in lumber, which she could then sell exclusively to you. It is speculation, based of if your interest in the iron wood, as well as the interest in the area would rise, but if so, I find it something that were worth vocalizing to you.

It would benefit the island, Omen would have meaningful employment, and your work would be quite profitable in turn. As she have voiced herself, many times, she wants for little, that holds monetary value, so she wouldn't even think of charging you an obscene price. Potentially nothing at all, but even a pittance, would be a valuable thing, and lesson, for her.

As said, these are just thoughts. Ponder them, if you will, and see where things goes. I merely wanted to share a perspective, which holds opportunity for those around me."

It might sound as if he had ulterior motives, but currently, he did not. Certainly he might be able to spin something here to his advantage, but quite frankly, he did not have the desire to do so currently. Perhaps things would change later, but for now, he wished to walk a path of assistance, rather than profiteering.

On 2022-07-25 at 4:22 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“All of you, stay safe, be careful, and we wish you the best in what you’ll be doing! Come back anytime if you need anything!”

The group would start walking away from the workshop, waving goodbye and reciprocating their farewells. Upon turning a corner, Sen would break the temporary silence. Wherever they need to go now, the siblings will follow, though a curious thought came to the longma. At the same time, Lin remained a little more reserved and silent in contemplation, thinking about her earlier outburst of words and emotions, at least for a moment before turning her attention to the present.

“You and Omen seem to be getting along well with Uddo and Kiba, huh Rosa? Sounded like you’ve had plenty to talk about. You know, now that you’ve got a place of your own, maybe it might be best if we don’t take advantage of it. We still got that cave in the outskirts of Canterlot, and you’ve got a right to your privacy.”

Soon enough, the farewells would have been made all around, and they would depart from Uddo's home. At which point, he would wander along, looking as composed as ever, and listen to what it were that the siblings spoke of. Yet as they finished, he would let out a large sigh, and slump his shoulders, before answering. He seemed physically, and mentally tired as he did so, yet would compose himself again soon after, and clear his throat.

"My apologies. Things in there got... Unnerving, for a moment.

In regards to my domicile, I have no qualms with you being there as often as you'd like. Stay for a while, if it is to your wishes. It would surely be much better to rest on a couch, or in a guest bedroom, than on the floor in some cave. Resting on stone is not good for your back in the long run, you know. As well as general health, from things such as cave mold, moisture, and random bear attacks.

As for my privacy, I have precious little use for it currently. I am getting tracked by several at this point, and thus, the notion that I have privacy, is laughable. Besides, I have nothing to spend it on currently, beyond preparing for various things, in the future. Perhaps polish my blades, or something of the sort. Had I another in my life, perhaps your gesture would have merit, but currently, that is not the case.

...That does remind me though, I need to send a letter. That besides, should we perhaps go home? It would be good with some place for us to mull over today's developments."

As he'd lead the way, Omen for one, would fail to notice something odd. Because in an alley on their way, starring at them silently, were Hammond. He didn't even try to hide, he just sat there, with a new necklace on, dangling around his neck. A thin dark chain, with a red gem. Pulsating vaguely, with an ominous, crimson glow. Rosa would see him, but chose to ignore him. The others might not. Though if they did, he would begin to follow, still without Omen seemingly noticing anything.

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

 

@-Solstice-

Zeehva wouldn't stop throwing up for a bit longer. And thankfully, she had found the toilet to do this in, rather than a bucket, or some poor beings belongings. Or on the floor, which would be quite bad too.

"I-I'm fine jus-"

She weren't done, it had turned out...

After she were well and truly sure she were done, she'd flush the foul smelling mostly-liquid, and slink down on her side, gasping for air.

"Urgh, that was w-worse than it tends to be... And they say t-this only gets worse... B-By the ancestors.

But I'm fine, y-yes. Sorry if I m-made you worry. Urgh... D-Did you sleep well?"

She could really use her medicine pouch right about now...

Edited July 27, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

She would blink then smile "Ah, yesterday I was out of town actually" she'd say to him "One of my days off, so I decided to go out of town for a bit" she would say to him and then tilt her head "Blitz? Don't think I've met her, but I am glad she was able to help cheer up the Sphinx" she would then finish her slice of cake, "and you are right, always nice to have a surprise attack that doesn't end in an attack" she giggles softly.

She then thinks on the venting thing and shakes her head "Nothing much really, just pet owners that don't take the bet care of their pets, though luckily here in Ponyville, ponies seem to be pretty good with taking care of their pets, other than that, I don't really have anything to vent about, see, I actually went to a special spot for me, it's nice and quiet, and it's where I can just meditate, calm down and clear my mind."

[Rising Dusk 27,690]

@Blitz Boom

Star Echo was successfully chided and corrected in his remark.  Not that it'd be all the easy to tell, as the learned scholar was more than happy to be corrected and made all the more informed for it.  "Ho ho ho.  A thousand apologies, High Priestess.  So much to learn of this land and oh so little on time.  A truly remarkable lesson indeed," the older stallion was simply delighted in his new education.

"We know of those details, Thistle.  The Dark Wizard Twisted, the encounter with an avatar of the Dark God, his trip through a Dark Swamp and Twisted's Dark home... Now that I think about it, Dark was mentioned a lot...  Regardless!  The undoing of Twisted's magic to free the trapped souls.  His story of many juicy bits though boils down to "We fought" or "The swamp was Dark"... Even though!  We know in that infinite library he calls a brain, he could tell us every detail down to the number of trees he saw while all this was happening!" Dawn exclaimed in her mellow drama.  "We fought.  The swamp was Dark," Rising repeated.  Taking a second to think, he then added, "I saw 367 trees."  Dawn puffed her cheeks and nudged him roughly.  The family knew the important bits.  Going into grim detail about the horrors he saw in the swamp, the bog hunter in the shed or the second to second play by play of his fight with Twisted, wouldn't be that pleasant to his parents.  At least in Equestria, a cop doesn't go home to share the grizzly details of a murder scene to their loved ones.

To add to her small theatrical frustration, Thistle had to go into her own detail on how to obtain her shoes.  To say the least, Dawn was not all that thrilled to hear this.  Back to just having to make her own, she supposed.  "Earthly pleasures is right," Rising agreed with Thistles assessment.  Dawn couldn't be angry at that, nor would shy away from admitting it, "True.  A pity, they are most beautiful."  The real pity was nagging at the back of her mind on how the High Priestess could wear such otherworldly garb but Lily had to instructed the Manehatten mare not to do the same.  His twin sister was smart enough to keep her mouth shut.

Entering the room the family would finally come to meet Will-O-Wisp.  That just leaves one member of the party missing.  Rising took quick note of the mare's condition.  Now was not the time to inquire.  Although strange the mare's reaction gave rise to the curious notion she might be the only pony in all of Harrowmark that didn't know Rising was coming to this celebration.  Mayhaps Thistle's continued efforts to hide her from the public, do to her less that popular heritage.  Questions questions questions.  At least she had her loyal undead bird in tow.

Will-O had her own questions though, albeit one that caused a number of blinks and a state of confusion in the family.  Dawn opened and closed her mouth a number of times, but collected herself.  "I'm not sure if I should be flattered or insulted," the mare inquired, more to herself than those present.  She took a moment to example her twin.  He did come from the same gene pool, but she of course had the looks in the family, as it were.  Rising were a handsome stallion to be sure, but right now she was more confused if such relationships were considered okay in Harrowmark.  Their appearance might not denote the more twin like and more opposites.  Rising with the sun orange mane and midnight blue coat, Dawn with the midnight blue mane and sun orange coat.  Most usually caught on though.  "Pick flattered," Rising suggested with a smile.  "Very well, brother dearest.  Setting Dawn, older twin sister to Sir Rising Dusk.  This is our father Star Echo and out dearest mother Soaring Grace," Dawn took the chance to make introductions this time.  "You may proceed with your hug," the mare chuckled. 

Edited July 27, 2022 by Rising Dusk