open Casual stroll

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

"Well Alonsus, I'm just here for her." He said as he looks at Shark.

He'd then watch the festivities happening in front of him and calmly add, 

"I'm just a simple stallion now... My Past removed, a future renewed. And I'd like to keep it that way." 

" But I know my past is out there preparing for my judgement."

" Heh... No use on worrying now, right?"

Light asked him, since he felt a connection with Alonsus. A fellow stallion who is hunted by the past. 

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-09-19 at 4:59 AM, Blitz Boom said:

The voice of Scarcity would come nearer, and the filly - Floral it seemed - would nod, and get up. Deaf as she were, she could not hear her, but Hammond had sensed his masters presence, and communicated with her, that the mare were close. It appeared they figured the best course of action, were to allow Munchkin a way out, if she so pleased, yet she could also just stay, and meet the owner of this house, if she so pleased. If not though, the path were open, and Hammond would follow her, closing the gates behind them. He did not need to be there for breakfast. Scarcity mostly just wished for him, to help send Floral there, in case they were playing again. It were how some mornings went. Others, with just them communicating. She loved teaching him sign language, and have somepony genuinely show interest in learning, and *talking* with her.

The petting was a nice feeling, though there weren’t many creatures who got a chance to do it. Hammond and the baker had the opportunity to do it on some occasions, but the latter had to earn the cat’s trust. Eventually, it got a little easier despite Munchkin’s selectiveness when it comes to who it wants to pet her. Right now, this was a pretty good place to be, and she got the scents of the filly and Hammond so she’ll recognize them. 

For now, it seemed like the filly, Floral, was being called away, and so the cat would stay put to let her be on her way. Munchkin had her own routine to return to, but would very much want to come back some time. For now, she planned to go to the bakery to get some small pieces of bread from the nice baker, maybe even see the odd reptilian creature riding on Omen and study it some more. There was plenty to do for the day. 

Parting wasn’t really something the cat had gestures for, though she’d try something to let the filly know it was okay for them to temporarily part ways. Once a gate was open, the little cat walked up to Floral and gave her a light head butt on one of her legs. It wasn’t exactly elegant, as it was more of a gentle push based on two creatures’ size difference, but it was something. Once the filly was ready to go, she’d walk through the gate to see if she was anywhere near the bakery on the other side. However, if the filly didn’t quite understand the gesture, the cat would try again.

As for what was happening at Rosa’s home, things didn’t exactly go as either of the siblings hoped. No talk or airing of grievances between them. Though there was the uneasy silence, that was broken with Omen and Shrimp conversing with Lin, especially Shrimp’s very enthusiastic greeting. Whatever anger she had temporarily dissipated, and she just couldn’t help but smile when she sees the little creature dancing. Of course, there was still her brother sitting across her looking rather dejected from her cold entrance, but there were reasons for her to stay despite her beef with him. She even offered to give some of the berries she grabbed and give them to Shrimp instead. 

On 2022-09-19 at 4:59 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"My evening was okay. I watched Sen when he slept. Scared him, by standing too close, but Shrimp fell asleep on him. I thought I should not move.

How was yours? Did you think too? Sen did a lot of that. You two did not agree on things, yes? Did it help to think?"

“Scaring brother, huh? That must have been something… As for last night, I spent some time in town, then moved back to the cave to think about what happened. Even ran into Hammond and had a nice chat before the cat, Munchkin, joined us. The two of them eventually left, though our talk left me with more things to wonder about with… you know… Whether it helped, I don’t know.”

Once more, the odd tension returned as Lin grew silent, staring at her brother and him staring back, like they both expected the other to start talking for real. Eventually, one broke the silence.

“Sister,” Sen began, though his voice grew heavy as he spoke. “Sooner or later, we will have to settle this, so why are you angry? Did I do anything to make you angry?”

“Do anything? More like doing nothing! I had the right to be angry about the longma and the elders. Or have you forgotten what happened? Mother and father? There was a time when that meant something to you. Did what happened to them mean nothing all of a sudden? You could have backed me, said something more to get uncle to do more! It's like you forgot or just didn't care anymore.”

Sen was taken aback despite knowing this was going to be the direction the conversation would go. As much as he could anticipate it, hearing the accusations from his sister felt different. Nothing could dampen the sting coming from the words of family, but he had to follow her train of thought. It was a lot more difficult than expected, especially when he was accused of doing nothing, and he imagined what else could follow that.

“What could I have done? You are angry, I get that, but what good would staying angry do for you? You barely tolerate anyone in the village aside from the few friends we have left, and one wrong move will probably lose whatever goodwill we have, maybe make more enemies. You once had anger consume your thoughts, went so far as to look for dark powers to get back at everyone who wronged us, and look where that got you.” 

The longma didn’t raise his voice like his sister, partly to control himself from cutting loose and partly to avoid waking Rosa. Though in reality, he probably already heard Lin’s outburst a short while earlier. Still, he was angry that Lin didn’t seem to learn her lesson from way back when she got her new body, though she looked like she had a better understanding of her situation and what led to it. Right now, it doesn’t seem to be the case, though she paused to sit down and look at her claws, her near pitch-black hide, and the smoky wisps that was once her webbing.

There was definitely more to go from Lin, as her rage was slowly growing from a simmer earlier, but this moment gave her pause. Whether it was to take in what her brother said or come up with a retort was unknown. As for Sen, he hoped to reach out and convince his sister to let go of her anger or vent it through other productive means that didn’t involve potentially antagonizing anyone back home. At the very least, he hoped this difficult conversation wasn’t going to greatly disturb Rosa or confuse Omen.

Edited September 20, 2022 by EQ_Theta

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-09-20 at 2:33 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Parting wasn’t really something the cat had gestures for, though she’d try something to let the filly know it was okay for them to temporarily part ways. Once a gate was open, the little cat walked up to Floral and gave her a light head butt on one of her legs. It wasn’t exactly elegant, as it was more of a gentle push based on two creatures’ size difference, but it was something. Once the filly was ready to go, she’d walk through the gate to see if she was anywhere near the bakery on the other side. However, if the filly didn’t quite understand the gesture, the cat would try again.

Floral looked giddy as could be, and stroked her paw gently over Munchkin's head, and down her back, before getting up. She'd stop and wave first though, to both her, and Hammond. The latter of whom would wave back, before the filly would move to wander out of the room. Though if Munchkin were not done, she'd stick around for a bit longer. If not, she had breakfast waiting.

On the other side of the gate, the bakery indeed were. It were around 9 in the morning at this point, and they'd be coming out at the side of the building, where likely less folks could see them. Even if they could, it were hard to guess what they'd think. A squirrel with oversized ears, and three eyes, and a cat, jumping out of a hole in the wall, might just be one of those weird things, that were best to just sorta move past, and not think too hard about.

Wherever Munchkin wanted to go from there, Hammond would follow. After closing the gate of course. Couldn't just leave that open. Mother were very clear about that.

On 2022-09-20 at 2:33 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Scaring brother, huh? That must have been something… As for last night, I spent some time in town, then moved back to the cave to think about what happened. Even ran into Hammond and had a nice chat before the cat, Munchkin, joined us. The two of them eventually left, though our talk left me with more things to wonder about with… you know… Whether it helped, I don’t know.”

Once more, the odd tension returned as Lin grew silent, staring at her brother and him staring back, like they both expected the other to start talking for real. Eventually, one broke the silence.

“Sister,” Sen began, though his voice grew heavy as he spoke. “Sooner or later, we will have to settle this, so why are you angry? Did I do anything to make you angry?”

“Do anything? More like doing nothing! I had the right to be angry about the longma and the elders. Or have you forgotten what happened? Mother and father? There was a time when that meant something to you. Did what happened to them mean nothing all of a sudden? You could have backed me, said something more to get uncle to do more! It's like you forgot or just didn't care anymore.”

Sen was taken aback despite knowing this was going to be the direction the conversation would go. As much as he could anticipate it, hearing the accusations from his sister felt different. Nothing could dampen the sting coming from the words of family, but he had to follow her train of thought. It was a lot more difficult than expected, especially when he was accused of doing nothing, and he imagined what else could follow that.

“What could I have done? You are angry, I get that, but what good would staying angry do for you? You barely tolerate anyone in the village aside from the few friends we have left, and one wrong move will probably lose whatever goodwill we have, maybe make more enemies. You once had anger consume your thoughts, went so far as to look for dark powers to get back at everyone who wronged us, and look where that got you.” 

"Please do not fight. You think things should be done differently, yes? It sounds like you are both right. It makes sense to feel both ways."

"I hear that you insist this to be a good time, to finally break the silence?"

They shouldn't worry about waking up Rosa anymore. He had been awakened, and due to his sensitive ears, and raining, he had automatically picked up on what else were said. Minus what Omen came with at the end, as he were out of her radius. But he assumed she were just observing, rather than getting herself involved in things.

He'd let out a large yawn, as he wandered down the stairs. His mane and tail were a mess, despite them being as short as they were, yet he hadn't time to think of that. The words that had caused him to stir, made it evident, that things were about to escalate, and he'd do better in trying to stop it from going too far, or end in a shouting match.

"I'll make some coffee, and then I think we should all sit down, and speak rationally about this, like functional adults. Over breakfast optimally."

Omen would pick this time to just wander out of gate, that she manifested next to her, without a word of why. Rosa internally rolled his eyes, but endeavored to ask her later. One step at a time.

As he recalled, there had been some coffee in the gift basket, and rightly so, he'd rummage, and find one behind some of the fruit. It still seemed good, but should likely be eaten soon, before it spoiled.

Regardless, he'd put a pot over, and then as it were rumbling on the counter, turn around to face his noisy friends.

"Now then, for a start: Goodmorning. It sounds as if there is a lot to talk about. By all means, please have a seat, and let us discuss things, step by step. And let's try to not shout too much okay? It won't solve anything. What will, is for the two of you to see eye to eye with your issue, and find a middle ground of understanding.

From what I heard, the beginning argument is one of extremes then, yes? Lin, you refuse to let go of your grievances. And Sen, you have elected to let it go, and move forward? I can certainly see where the clashing of ideals are rooted then. Especially considering what happened to you, Lin's approach are certainly understandable, although Sen's are more healthy, if we look at the absolute basics.

Yet I ask here for a start, if we can extrapolate. Present your arguments for why your method is what you think is correct, but this time, without attacking the other. Focus on what it is, that makes you feel the way you do, and why. I think you may be better able to understand the other, if we do not throw around accusations, and anger. Not for a start at least."

He'd grab a banana, and peel it, then take a chomp, as he kept a neutral gaze on his friends. This were already looking like it were gonna be a long day, but there were no going around it. The proverbial cat were out of the bag, and it were time the two of them had this chat. He'd just prefer that it were kept somewhat civil.

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

 

@Kujamih

"Best to take the ghosts of the past, and leave them stranded far from you, friend. Lift the weight from your shoulders, and live your new life to the fullest."

He could understand what it were like for Light, if he understood the stallion correctly. Alonsus had been a bad seed once, and had those, who'd wish him harm. Old friends turned foes, those he had hurt, as he were ordered too... There were sadly more than enough. The consequences of what he had done, *proudly* on display.

He regretted it all, and had for a long time. The cowards way, gave him a chance out, yet still, he hoped that what good he could do, int he remainder of his days, might serve to somehow atone for things. Perhaps enough, so that he may one day return home, head held high, and harness the courage to face the shadows of his past. Yet for all his bluster, this were yet something, that he hadn't the heart for. Nor the legal right to do. Not yet, in any case.

"New life fun. You try have new life too."

Shark would lean in, and lick him, on the side of the face, from chin tip, to ear tip, and would end looking at him in a goofy way, with her tongue out. A sight which made Alonsus let out another laughter.

"A couple so sweet, warms the heart of Alonsus. May you have a long, fortuitous life together, my friends.

If you yet can muster my presence, then harken to me, and let us wander deeper within th hallowed halls of our town. There is food and beverages a plenty."

Shark's ears perked, when she heard there were food. Even if it were pony food, that were okay. She liked trying new things. Just not more stuff with alcohol, and the tables he'd lead them to, did have a fair area of sodas, That she would be pleased to go with. They were mostly meant for mixing, but nopony was gonna bat an eye, if she just drank that.

Alonsus would go for a Rainbow Reverie. Which were just a cooled soda, with layers of various drinks. He still didn't know how they managed to make that, but he enjoyed the layers one drank through with this one. It were quite refreshing. 

"So my friends, are you planning on settling in our fair town then? Have you found employment, and homes yet, or are you taking things one step at a time?"

 

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@AuroraGlimmer

Sitting and sipping his drink, Honey would ponder the response he had gotten. A certain part of it, seemed a little odd to him, but perhaps it were just him who misunderstood it? Best to ask he supposed.

"If I may, you mentioned phoenixes, and the Dragon Isles, yes? Is there a particular reason why you ah, mention them, over the ah, flocks that are in the Everfree Forest? Are they different in temperament? Or are they the same, and the Dragon Isles, are where they ah, migrate to, during the colder seasons? It is autumn, so I can ah, understand if that is it. I am just trying to understand."

He knew there were at least one *cluster* per se in the forest, around the large tree, near the old castle. The one with all the acorns. Not all were in the same tree per se, but they seemed to be in the general vicinity, and protected their food source there.

"And yes. The ah, drink that you're trying. It is a little sweet for some, but I ah, like the flavor. Berry is quite talented, when it comes to her job."

He'd take the cinnamon stick, and stir it around the beverage, before using it as a straw, to drink some more. He couldn't help it. He enjoyed the extra flavor it gave, and it did make him feel a little giddy inside, every now and again.

"What kind of things do you ah, usually drink, if I might ask? I mostly drink water, and then sometimes this. Some tea can be lovely too. Not big on sodas though I ah, will admit."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Light would smile and blush a bit with Shark's unique display of affection to him. He would also lick back to his love but more passionate and less intense than Shark.

" Thank you.." he replied to Shark.

It seems that the Liquor did enough to make Light a bit more bolder than usual.

" And thank you too Sir Alonsus."

They'd end up heading to more food and beverages where Shark seems to be more comfortable at.

" They say sugar is as bad as alcohol too Shark... So I suggest you limit sweet stuff.. specially for your teeth sweetie." He casually said to Shark while putting some food on his plate.

He wonders if his appetite is back, but it seems that he is still not hungry. He only took a few just to sample the taste, as he doesn't want to miss out what Shark has taken. 

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles would giggle a little at his question "Well for the most part the Phoenix flocks are the same between the two places, how-ever, the ones that reside in the Dragonlands are a lot more tamable nd a lot friendlier than the ones in the Everfree, see, the ones in the Everfree are truly wild and are effected by the wild magic of the Everfree." she explains to him, sipping some more on her drink "So if you'd like one that is tamable and won't bother the bess, then you will want from the Dragonlands" she smiles softly.

At his other question, she would smile a bit more "Usually it's something like a nice herbal tea, bobba tea or when it's cold outside, a hot chocolate" she would smile "Caffeine and I..don't exactly mix, so I try to stay clear of it" she finishes her drink and leans back a litlte in her chair.

[Rising Dusk 27,510]

@Blitz Boom

Star Echo stayed perfectly still as it appeared one of the giant moths had taken an interest in him.  Bringing a big bushy mustache smile to his snoot.  Rather fuzzy and warm for a head sized moth.  With antenna brushing along his glasses, he slowly turned toward his wife and daughter.  "Ho ho ho.  Feathered dearest, look look, one has landed on my head.  Did you bring the camera?" the amused professor inquired, wanting to capture the moment.  Said wife, did not look at all that amused after hearing what these giant moths do to willing participants on that alter.  The requirement for the need of an oil to render said ritual wasn't the most present on her brain.  However, she knew her husband was the scholarly type that, for science, he'd be more interested in the ritual than what was safe, by her standards.  "S-Sweety, this dress doesn't have pockets," Grace stammered.  "Now let's leave the... sacred moths to their... sacred things," the pegasus gulped and motioned her husband over to where her and Dawn were huddled by the exit.  Their daughter rapidly nodded her head in agreement.  "Ho ho ho.  Quite right, quite right," Star agreed, but it appeared to be at just the right attention span of the moth as it decided to rejoin the rest after a minute anyways.  With a wave farewell to the curious creature before joining his wife as motioned.

"An answer indeed.  Those two represent what one could expect from the majority of Equestria.  My father... is a special case," Rising admitted.  He didn't expect this to be an invitation to the ritual of course, but her words confirmed it nonetheless.  This was important to them and had been done in their lands for as long as the Princesses ruled Equestria.  It wouldn't make sense to them, nor was it ever meant to.  These were their ways and important to them, that's what mattered.  There were bound to be things in Equestria that might drive similar reactions from one of Harrowmark.  Spark confusion and judgements just as his mother and sister displayed.  Finding the common areas and gaining an understanding that it isn't meant to all be understood was the road ahead of them.

Scanned?  Rising had been a bit curious how Harrowmark planned to capture his likeness to be cast in stone or whatever material they chose for this statue.  Magic?  A camera?  Was he to stand still in one place while a sculptor worked?  That last one did not appeal to him.  "The show must go on," the detective sighed, using the common theater term.  "Thank you for this revelation, my friend," he nodded and was made ready to follow the priestess out of the chamber.  Dawn and Grace the quickest to leave.

"A secret that will remain?" Rising inquired.  Was it merely kept secret to hide it from Twisted and just vanished from commoner memory, or had it been that Harrowmark at large really never knew.  If that were the case, such a thing would be kept from Equestria as well.  Probably for the best.  But if it were all a choice, then the land of light need never know.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-09-22 at 4:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Please do not fight. You think things should be done differently, yes? It sounds like you are both right. It makes sense to feel both ways."

"I hear that you insist this to be a good time, to finally break the silence?"

They shouldn't worry about waking up Rosa anymore. He had been awakened, and due to his sensitive ears, and raining, he had automatically picked up on what else were said. Minus what Omen came with at the end, as he were out of her radius. But he assumed she were just observing, rather than getting herself involved in things.

He'd let out a large yawn, as he wandered down the stairs. His mane and tail were a mess, despite them being as short as they were, yet he hadn't time to think of that. The words that had caused him to stir, made it evident, that things were about to escalate, and he'd do better in trying to stop it from going too far, or end in a shouting match.

"I'll make some coffee, and then I think we should all sit down, and speak rationally about this, like functional adults. Over breakfast optimally."

Lin was feeling rather intense, but she held back after Sen said his piece. He had a point, and there was no denying that if it weren’t for him and some luck, she wouldn’t have had another chance at life, even if that chance came at a cost of sharing one body for a while. Still, it weren’t enough to dissuade her from arguing her points. It was only when she was about to go at it again that she and Sen stopped, both because of Omen’s concern for them and Rosa coming down to see them. Perhaps this conversation would’ve been better if it had happened somewhere private. 

For now, the two would stop their bickering and followed Rosa to the dining room. They’d sit, with Lin angrily staring at her brother, while Sen dejectedly stared down at the floor. If he had shown anger earlier, it didn’t seem present now, as if he didn’t have the heart to be angry with his sister. It was a mistake to do this now instead of waiting until Rosa was awake, but neither of the two would fault him if he were scold them about being inconsiderate. They’d probably be expecting it some time soon. 

Once he offered to mediate for them, it was too late to back out.

On 2022-09-22 at 4:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Now then, for a start: Goodmorning. It sounds as if there is a lot to talk about. By all means, please have a seat, and let us discuss things, step by step. And let's try to not shout too much okay? It won't solve anything. What will, is for the two of you to see eye to eye with your issue, and find a middle ground of understanding.

From what I heard, the beginning argument is one of extremes then, yes? Lin, you refuse to let go of your grievances. And Sen, you have elected to let it go, and move forward? I can certainly see where the clashing of ideals are rooted then. Especially considering what happened to you, Lin's approach are certainly understandable, although Sen's are more healthy, if we look at the absolute basics.

Yet I ask here for a start, if we can extrapolate. Present your arguments for why your method is what you think is correct, but this time, without attacking the other. Focus on what it is, that makes you feel the way you do, and why. I think you may be better able to understand the other, if we do not throw around accusations, and anger. Not for a start at least."

“Sorry about the noise, Rosa. We should’ve waited until you were awake, but now that we’re talking… Sen, I am angry with the longma because they can’t just keep going like nothing’s wrong when exiling folks could be abused. They have to know they did wrong because they stood by and let it happen. I’m angry with you because it’s like you just forgot it happened. You can’t simply let it go, not when it once mattered so much to you, and all this waiting around for the elders to talk about it in the hopes that something would happen… It would be better if we acted now without them.”

“Lin, I never forgot what happened. I still think about mother and father and what that did to us. I know you’re angry with the longma, but doing that will could drive away anyone who could sympathize with what happened. If we want to convince the folks back home that exile could be abused, we have to be careful and work with those who can help us, like Elder Ghilan. You saw it yourself. Back then, I hated Ghilan because he is an elder who could be just like the last one. Now, we count him as one of the few friends we have back home. Being angry and rash isn’t going to help, especially if could make things worse. If things being slow is the price for caution, then I’ll take it.”

The two didn’t seem ready to let up, but Lin’s anger appeared to begin subsiding, especially after hearing her brother’s take on the matter. That and what he said earlier about her current state. The fact that she can’t sleep anymore was still a sore spot, but she knew deep down that this all came about because of what she did. Searching for a source of dark magic and coming back to make them pay, being the kind of creature they feared to teach them a lesson, it all sounded like a good idea until it went wrong.

As for Sen, he had gained a better understanding of his sister’s anger, quietly admitting to himself that being careful now was taking longer than expected, especially since nothing has come of the other elders’ talk of wanting to convene. It sort of felt like they were stalling, or they hadn’t anticipated anyone questioning the way things are going until now. After all, the longma survived this long on traditions that spanned ages. If he were them, then maybe things are going right since they lasted this long on the old ways. However, allowing the rot to fester beneath would come back to bite them when it surfaces. 

Elsewhere, Munchkin coming back to a familiar sight was a relaxing change of pace. She led Hammond to the back where they would sit and wait, but the cat would let out a mew every few moments to see if the nice baker would be around. This was always the early morning routine, though she may sometimes meet much earlier. Still, this would be a good time to get a little something to eat, and they would soon meet the pony Munchkin hoped to see.

“Oh, hey there! I was wondering where you were, but I see you’ve been making friends. I made some little carrot balls with extra dough after yesterday’s test. Maybe a little too much, but you and your new friend can help yourselves to them! Don't be shy!”

Stiff Peaks, the baker, crouched down and offered a few of the air-fried carrot balls to Hammond and Munchkin, curious to see what they thought of her new creation. It was a spur-of-the moment result after seeing Shrimp, but if he liked it, it must mean she did something right. Perhaps if there is some demand for this type of dish, she could introduce it into the regular product line. As for the mare, she was right on the money with Munchkin making new friends, though just how accurate that statement was is unknown to her, as the cat had taken a liking to Floral and wouldn't mind visiting her some more. 

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby continued with the topic when they made their way out, as she still had thoughts about it, "It's not individual treasure hunters that are a problem, after all, such a big landmass hasn't gone unnoticed all this time by everyone, they are mostly dealt with by the dragons who's territories are closest to the edges; that's how new treasure has made its way in, and some of the old made it out, as evidenced by a bag of local coins that had made its way to a market here." Leviathan hadn't been there so she wouldn't know what she was talking about, but the bag of coins Ruby had bought from the black market was her kind's treasure, that's why she had wanted it. "No, individuals or small groups like that are just a personal annoyance to whoever has the territory and are seen as just slightly smarter pray." "It also would be unlikely to cause targeted retaliation since most dragons there, especially the younger ones that would be the first ones to see the visitors, have no real knowledge of the outside world, with the little I learnedt from the writings I found, I would be considered highly educated." "That's why Charir is such a special case, there are plenty of dragons who don't like the way things are for reason or another, but most still stay because it's easier than taking off and flying into total unknown, as far as they know, Homelands are so far from everything that they'd starve before the ocean ends, and being ripped apart is more pleasant way to go than slowly starving until you drown." 

"My worry is more coordinated effort, like Equestria trying to bring friendship in the homelands, or some other nation trying to take over the land for some reason. If a big enough force would arrive, they would mix up the natural order, and 'enemies of my enemies' type of thinking could take over, can you imagine what would happen when a species that kills each other for sport decides that someone is big enough bother that cooperation is necessary to deal with them?" "When a species without any moral limits decides that some other species is a problem?" "We already wiped out all the other big predators from that land, extinction would very much be a likely objective." 

She didn't care about the rest of the world of course, could all die off as far as she was concerned, but rather, this worry, like everything else, came from selfish point of view, because, she had fled the homelands to get away from her kind, so obviously her kind taking over the world would be more than a slight inconvenience. She hadn't even considered that it would probably cause harm to other species of dragons too due to non-dragons seeing all dragons as the same. 

"That is not considering the more magical relatives in the east though, as I can't even start guessing about their motives, we can't get there, and they never come to the west." 

She would lead them through familiar route towards her house, she was glad to stop there as it would let her to drop her disguise for a moment when she would go get the writings.

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

"If it helps, a chance of a building materializing above something is very tiny, without going in great details, what I have confirmed has come from our world, tend to follow certain set of rules, and crushing homes is not one of them." Solar stated almost humorously "Until you happen to own something that causes huge spikes in magic or nullifies magic on a big area." granted he didn't have a lot to go by yet in this world, but he combined his knowledge about their world to make conclusions as he had yet to see a reason to assume that magic as a force was too different here. Solar thought for a moment "I think I have said all I need to, and bit more. In conclusion, if you see individuals like myself, that being those with metal replacing several parts of their body, assume them as potential threats and make sure to report it so that I can know of their existence, same with individuals who speak of things not true in this world. For structures in odd places, or structures with odd technology inside, they should be isolated and not explored until I can check them for potential dangers. And lastly, for pieces of technology or other unknown objects, one should follow the procedures for collecting potentially dangerous magical items." "The princesses should soon enough send more official instructions to your commanders, but I don't know when exactly." 

Solar then looked towards the kobold siblings "I know we don't really get along, but I ask that you two would report it too if you see Sheez or anything else from our world, if you don't trust my intentions, trust in my blind loyalty to this world's ruler, I know that you know that we guards didn't follow the empire because we were treated well." he then turned to leave, but Sear interrupted him "Excuse me, Solar was it? Your appearance and the translated message reminded us from something, if you'd be interested in hearing." Solar paused and turned to walk towards her "Sure, go ahead..." and that would be all that was heard as Solar shrunk the magical barrier to only surround himself and Sear, and they would have a short chat in private before the barrier disappeared and he again turned to leave, and this time, if nobody interrupted him again, he would finally leave, making the siblings, especially Sheska, visibly less unpleasant, though it took few moments for her to get her head cleared, if Harpoon had been taught such things, she probably would have been able to tell that Sheska's reaction to Solar from the start was some kind of trauma response.

 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Rising Dusk

On 2022-09-22 at 5:53 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"An answer indeed.  Those two represent what one could expect from the majority of Equestria.  My father... is a special case,"

"ℍ𝕖'𝕤 𝕒 𝕤𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕒𝕣. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪'𝕣𝕖 𝕔𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝕓𝕪 𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤, 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖 𝕙𝕚𝕞 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕤𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠'𝕕 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕚𝕝𝕪 𝕖𝕟𝕘𝕒𝕘𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕞, 𝕓𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕛𝕦𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕖.

𝕋𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕤𝕒𝕚𝕕, 𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕜𝕖𝕡𝕥 𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙, 𝕥𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕓𝕖 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕕 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕠 𝕒 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕡. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕤𝕔𝕣𝕦𝕡𝕦𝕝𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝕞𝕖𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕣𝕤 𝕠𝕗 ℍ𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕠𝕨𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕜, 𝕨𝕙𝕠'𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕙𝕚𝕞 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕣 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕤."

A curious mind were valuable, in its own right, but then, it were also easy to lead one like that astray. Give them promise of fascinating, or powerful things, and they'd wander into simple traps. The fate of the foolish she supposed, but it would not happen to this family. She would personally see to that being the case, if required.

On 2022-09-22 at 5:53 AM, Rising Dusk said:

Scanned?  Rising had been a bit curious how Harrowmark planned to capture his likeness to be cast in stone or whatever material they chose for this statue.  Magic?  A camera?  Was he to stand still in one place while a sculptor worked?  That last one did not appeal to him.  "The show must go on," the detective sighed, using the common theater term.  "Thank you for this revelation, my friend," he nodded and was made ready to follow the priestess out of the chamber.  Dawn and Grace the quickest to leave.

"A secret that will remain?" Rising inquired.  Was it merely kept secret to hide it from Twisted and just vanished from commoner memory, or had it been that Harrowmark at large really never knew.  If that were the case, such a thing would be kept from Equestria as well.  Probably for the best.  But if it were all a choice, then the land of light need never know.

"ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕚𝕤 𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕖𝕕, 𝕒𝕤 𝕒 𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕗𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕙. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕒𝕞𝕖: 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕔𝕠𝕝𝕪𝕥𝕖 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕕 𝕒 𝕡𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕥, 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕕𝕖𝕧𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕘𝕠𝕕𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕨𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕟, 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕦𝕥𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕒𝕤𝕜𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕒 𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕚𝕔𝕖. 𝕊𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗, 𝕕𝕖𝕧𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕧𝕖𝕤 𝕗𝕦𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕔𝕠𝕚𝕝𝕤 𝕒𝕤 𝕒𝕟 𝕠𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕆𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕤 𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕝𝕝, 𝕕𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕘𝕠 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕖𝕟𝕘𝕥𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕞𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕒𝕔𝕠𝕝𝕪𝕥𝕖𝕤, 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕖𝕤. 𝔸 𝕟𝕠 𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙𝕪 𝕡𝕠𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕖 𝕟𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕛𝕦𝕕𝕘𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕞 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕚𝕔𝕖. 𝕀𝕥 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒𝕟 𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕪 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖.

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕒𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕚𝕥 𝕓𝕒𝕣𝕓𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕔 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕚𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙, 𝕪𝕖𝕥 𝕨𝕖'𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕔𝕣𝕦𝕖𝕝. 𝕎𝕖 𝕕𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕤𝕖, 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕘𝕠 𝕒𝕤 𝕗𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕤 𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕤. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕊𝕦𝕦𝕤𝕙𝕒, 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕞𝕦𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕤𝕒𝕞𝕖, 𝕓𝕖𝕥𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕖𝕣𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 ℝ𝕠𝕥 𝔽𝕒𝕣𝕞𝕖𝕣𝕤, 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕠𝕧𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕪𝕠𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕨𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕤, 𝕥𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕞. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕪 𝕧𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠𝕨𝕟, 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕥 𝕡𝕦𝕣𝕡𝕠𝕤𝕖."

She did not even know if any of the undead preachers yet remained, as what Suusha had been twisted towards, had not been comparable, to the one they had been devoted to. If yet some still were there, and had not fallen to madness, she would imagine they were well hidden no. Even for those, who'd seek them. Such were it back in the day too, where they rarely went to see others, but instead waited, and would judge if others were worthy to be planted in their fields, and risen into a more sensible, enlightened undead.

"𝕐𝕖𝕥 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕓𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕒𝕝𝕒𝕣𝕞𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕗𝕚𝕣𝕤𝕥, 𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕨 𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕟𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕒𝕕𝕟𝕖𝕤𝕤. 𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕒𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕦𝕤 𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕞𝕚𝕖𝕤, 𝕓𝕦𝕥 𝕨𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕥𝕙 𝕤𝕖𝕣𝕧𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕗𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕙. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘 𝕘𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕙𝕝𝕪 𝕣𝕚𝕤𝕖𝕟 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕞𝕪 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕔𝕠𝕚𝕝, 𝕨𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕓𝕒𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕤𝕠. 𝕀 𝕙𝕠𝕡𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖, 𝕚𝕥 𝕔𝕒𝕟 𝕓𝕖 𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕖𝕕, 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕠𝕗 𝕚𝕥. 𝕀 𝕕𝕠𝕦𝕓𝕥 𝕚𝕥 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕓𝕖 𝕚𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕝𝕚𝕗𝕖𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖𝕤."

Twisted were different, but he had been hated by both sides, as he threw the balance into chaos, for his own, selfish gains. He were a heinous criminal, who'd be missed only by those who gained from his position, and many of those would be facing their due judgement, soon enough.

"𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕕𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕞𝕒𝕪 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕘𝕖, 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕤𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕠𝕝𝕕. 𝕀 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕒𝕤 𝕀 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕙𝕪. 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕕𝕠 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕚𝕥, 𝕚𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕕𝕖.

𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕔𝕖𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕪 𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕛𝕦𝕕𝕘𝕖𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥 𝕚𝕟𝕥 𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕣 𝕒𝕟𝕪𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖, 𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕙𝕠𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕠𝕝𝕕 𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤, 𝕚𝕤 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕋𝕨𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕒𝕕𝕧𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕘𝕖, 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕙𝕖 𝕚𝕟𝕗𝕚𝕝𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕜𝕤, 𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕘𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕙𝕠𝕨𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕤𝕠𝕟. ℙ𝕖𝕣𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕖𝕟 𝕕𝕚𝕗𝕗𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕥, 𝕙𝕒𝕕 𝕙𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕧𝕖𝕚𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕤𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕔𝕪, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕪 𝕗𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕡, 𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕚𝕕 𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕘𝕣𝕚𝕫𝕫𝕝𝕪 𝕒𝕞𝕓𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤..."

She were still not sure, if she had been a fool, and been used from the start, or if he had lashed out due to her choice. Perhaps it were even the prospect of what were to come, after she had told him, that made him go his route... Only he knew, and in all the years he had kept her soul, he had never told her why, nor why she were kept prisoner, when all her other priests and priestesses, were twisted into monstrous things.

Yet even without answers, she blamed herself in part. She should have seen it. Should have expected something, or fought back harder. It were a shame she could never lift, and it often weighed heavily on her mind.

Getting out of the tunnels, they would not have to wander far, before getting to an unimpressive door, simple marked with a sign saying *The Stoneworks*.

Inside, were not much more impressive either. It looked run down and were filled with rubble, though considering the statues there, it were little wonder. All were broken into pieces, but Rising would likely be able to piece together enough in his mind, to get the idea, that these had been statues of their former tyrant. Things they had probably been forced to make, now finally, bit by bit, being destroyed.

In fact, one were getting pulverized, with an oversized hammer as they entered, wielded by an elderly mare, in a long, brown dress, with an accompanying apron, with a pocket full of tools, and short, pale-pink hair.

She'd brush the shards off from the leather apron up front, as she seemingly effortlessly, lifted the hammer again, and looked down on the ruble, looking pretty smug. Then she'd lift a hoof, and stomp a piece of eye to smaller pebbles.

"I see you're enthusiastically approach your work."

"Just cleaning some trash from my resume."

She'd turn around, and look at them, through pale-green eyes, and mattered gold-rimmed glasses. A large pair, going to about the height of her forehead.

"And this young man, must either be our lauded savior, or you're trying to have me retire?"

"I have full confidence that the only one who knows when the time is ripe for your retirement, is yourself, honored stone matron."

The prince bowed before her, making the mare smile a little warmer, and pat him on the shoulder.

"I'll consider it, if I lose a few more limbs."

A clacking were heard, and they might catch a glimpse of a peg leg, though her focus were not on that, as much as her new subject.

"But jesting with his highness aside, you're Sir Rising Dusk then? A funny coincidence, with that name of yours, but that's not why you're here. You're here for a scan.

You ever been magically scanned from top to bottom before? It's not so bad, unless you keep moving. Ol' Millie won't be too thrilled about that."

She were smiling, as the oversized hammer laid comfortably on her shoulder. Rising likely able to tell, that it wasn't magic that made her able to carry that metallic tool. She were seemingly just a lot less frail, than her frame let on. She were also subtly threatening him, but it were just in jest. Probably.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-09-23 at 5:11 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Sorry about the noise, Rosa. We should’ve waited until you were awake, but now that we’re talking… Sen, I am angry with the longma because they can’t just keep going like nothing’s wrong when exiling folks could be abused. They have to know they did wrong because they stood by and let it happen. I’m angry with you because it’s like you just forgot it happened. You can’t simply let it go, not when it once mattered so much to you, and all this waiting around for the elders to talk about it in the hopes that something would happen… It would be better if we acted now without them.”

“Lin, I never forgot what happened. I still think about mother and father and what that did to us. I know you’re angry with the longma, but doing that will could drive away anyone who could sympathize with what happened. If we want to convince the folks back home that exile could be abused, we have to be careful and work with those who can help us, like Elder Ghilan. You saw it yourself. Back then, I hated Ghilan because he is an elder who could be just like the last one. Now, we count him as one of the few friends we have back home. Being angry and rash isn’t going to help, especially if could make things worse. If things being slow is the price for caution, then I’ll take it.”

"Cards on the table, and tempers lessened. A fine start. It is clearly a matter of perspective from you each, that is the source of this animosity, and I would say, that neither of your approached are technically invalid. Merely... How shall I say this... Two different perspectives, of the same core issue.

Lin represents the side who holds rightful animosity, for the way you were treated. She sees it as unjust, and wants accountability, as well as an abolishment of the system, that were misused against you, and who knows how many else.

Sen are the one who look forward. Wanting change, but acknowledging that he have to look past his anger, to have a tangible hope of that, and then wills for things to change naturally, at their own pace.

I am aware this is a gross simplification, but bear with me, if you will.

For you see, going through things, you both have a point, but also fail to see the inherent issues in your approach, that might cause animosity for the other.

Trying to look forward is good, but one must not do so, to the extend, where one seems to forget where the anger came from in the first place. It might make you appear as if you do not care, even if you deep inside, truly do.

At the same time, being headstrong, will only cause issues, as you are trying to change an ingrained system. Push too hard, and with mere animosity, and it will seem like you're just trying to bring chaos to their system. It will not give you allies, which you will need, to succeed here.

The ultimate goal in my mind, will be to find a middle ground here, for you need both approaches, in a correct balance. Lins' mistrust, and passion, provides energy that you will need, and a focus on what it is, that you want done. It it must be filtered through Sen's approach, where one have to push towards these goals, within reasonable confines, or be seen as a mere rebel, or troublemaker. You must neither seem too weak, nor too strong in your approach, lest you get banished again, or dismissed.

I would suggest beginning from the focal point, where the elders themselves, would have to acknowledge a problem. That being the elder who banished you in the first place. As I understand it, his schemes, did eventually come back to cause them personal trouble, in which you, and Omen, intervened. Is that correct? In that case, they too would have to acknowledge that having one such as him, abusing what is meant to be a position of leadership, for personal gains, at the detriment of your kin, are a situation, that would have to be avoided. Through that, one can mention examples of what he did, and question how many - if any - of his judgement were fair, or reasonable, and how many were just to further his own goals.

Via this then, you could call into question, the legitimacy of your banishment, and the fate of your parents, by his orders. If you can have them acknowledge that your own banishment were a grave error, that should not have happened, and have that reversed, you will be the first step towards addressing this as a whole. Can we agree on that?

Also, if I understand what little I have grasped of the situation, you two were also part of saving your town. Is that correct? If so, it leads credence to you not being irredeemable criminals, who harbored none but ill will towards their kin. If you were, then why would you have helped them after all? This is where your approach being firm, yet respectful is key, so that they cannot come forth, and accuse your reasons, to simple be to attack the foundation of your system. If you were, then why would you approach them, within the confines of said system, with the proper degree of apparent respect after all?"

This were pretty much just a beginning, that he put down to the simpler facts of things, and then he hoped the two siblings, would be able to meet in the middle, and understand some of what it were that he were on about. If not... Well, he'd have to try some other things. It were early in the morning, and he were still a naturally nocturnal being. Give him a chance to get up in gear, before thinking ahead too far.

On 2022-09-23 at 5:11 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Oh, hey there! I was wondering where you were, but I see you’ve been making friends. I made some little carrot balls with extra dough after yesterday’s test. Maybe a little too much, but you and your new friend can help yourselves to them! Don't be shy!”

Stiff Peaks, the baker, crouched down and offered a few of the air-fried carrot balls to Hammond and Munchkin, curious to see what they thought of her new creation. It was a spur-of-the moment result after seeing Shrimp, but if he liked it, it must mean she did something right. Perhaps if there is some demand for this type of dish, she could introduce it into the regular product line. As for the mare, she was right on the money with Munchkin making new friends, though just how accurate that statement was is unknown to her, as the cat had taken a liking to Floral and wouldn't mind visiting her some more. 

Hammond had been watching Munchkin, wondering what it were that she were doing. Some sort of signal, perhaps? Were this how she got food out here, at the baker? Interesting... Not something he could mimic, as he did not talk, but it were still interesting, and something he could examine, if she did consistently, or just here. Might be a thing between the baker, and her. Might also be a signal he should listen to, in case she were telling him that she were hungry? He would have to try and keep that in mind.

When the baker arrived, Hammond would raise a paw, and wave at her, then do some hoof signs. They would translate into "Hello to pony", though she probably didn't know that.

When offered the ball, Hammond would take one, then look down upon the treat in his paw. He'd then munch through it, clearly not minding that there were more dough in it. Tasted kinda good actually, though he were still trying to learn what were good taste, and bad taste, so his opinion might not be too valid. Not with the sort of thing he has fished out of the trash, and considered good.

Yet when he were done, he'd look up at her, silently as always, then suddenly jump through a gate, that closed behind him. Around twenty seconds later, he would return, now holding a packaged in, piece of candy. One from Scarcity's visitor bowl. Specifically, it were a golden-paper packaged, ball of dark chocolate, around a center of hazelnut flakes, and creamy caramel. Rather high end stuff, and something that he thought would make for a good gift back for her. Like with Munchkin yesterday.

At the front of the store (or in the store, in case it had opened) Omen would stand ready, but did not feel the presence of her brother, due to his necklace. She had come out of a gate, near the entrance, and spat out a bunch of bits, that she were now holding on her hoof. It seemed from yesterday, that some did not like how she paid, so she would try this, and see how that went. If there too many - around twenty bits - she could just eat the excess.

She'd wait to do something, until she saw the baker though, and would then get in line. She understood those at least. And as for Shrimp? Well then, the smells from the bakery, were making his head turn around, sniffing frantically. So many odd, yet enticing smells from this place.

 

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

 

@Kujamih

As he'd lick her, Shark would let out a pleased gasp, and then tackle Light, putting him in a hug. Just a regular, two legged one this time though. He had seemed odd when she did the other one before, so maybe that wasn't for here.

If he fell down, she'd stand over him, and smile, showing off her big, shiny, pearly whites, before leaning down, and nuzzling the side of his face with her own. Might be she were an odd one, but she were affectionate at least, and had a vested interest in him, over others. That much should be clear. It were to Alonsus at least, who'd smile more, the more he saw of their interaction. Such a delightful couple.

On 2022-09-21 at 11:41 PM, Kujamih said:

They'd end up heading to more food and beverages where Shark seems to be more comfortable at.

" They say sugar is as bad as alcohol too Shark... So I suggest you limit sweet stuff.. specially for your teeth sweetie." He casually said to Shark while putting some food on his plate.

He wonders if his appetite is back, but it seems that he is still not hungry. He only took a few just to sample the taste, as he doesn't want to miss out what Shark has taken. 

Shark had been sniffing the various things, when she had been talked to, and would turn around, looking at Light, as he addressed something with her teeth.

"Teeth... I have lots of teeth. Get more, all time."

She'd open wide, showing her point, as there were the three rows of razor sharp teeth, both up and down. It were uncertain if she still retained her teeth regrowth, from her normal shark form, but if one assumed it were so, she wouldn't be too fuzzed, by losing a tooth here and there. If not though she were gonna end up with some weird dentist bills. In fact, he might try and teach her how to brush her teeth soon, if he worried about her dental health, rather than have her rely on small birds to pick the food residue from her mouth, or something similar. And step one, would be making sure she did not try and eat the toothbrush.

"That is quite the display. Alonsus feels pity for the dentist, whom have to address such plentiful teeth."

The stallion would go from the soda, over to picking up a few things to eat. Namely, some vegan-bacon-wrapped leeks. A good start, in his mind.

Shark would try some of those too, an apple, and a tomato, that she liked the look of, because it were red. Then she'd try th pretty many-colored soda too. She'd put it on a plate, like she saw them do too, though she weren't sure what the plate were for after... Did they eat that too? It did not look tasty. Too flat.

"Friends have many teeth too?"

"Alonsus have much, that is in excess of what a norm al pony can offer, but alas, I have but a single set of teeth, and I must take good care of it. It is why flossing is of such importance."

 

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

 

@AuroraGlimmer

On 2022-09-22 at 3:04 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

Skittles would giggle a little at his question "Well for the most part the Phoenix flocks are the same between the two places, how-ever, the ones that reside in the Dragonlands are a lot more tamable nd a lot friendlier than the ones in the Everfree, see, the ones in the Everfree are truly wild and are effected by the wild magic of the Everfree." she explains to him, sipping some more on her drink "So if you'd like one that is tamable and won't bother the bess, then you will want from the Dragonlands" she smiles softly.

"Ah, I see. That is quite the ah, surprising twist, as I had assumed most creatures from the Dragon Isles, would have to be more ah, wild, to survive, and the ones here near equine kind, being more tame. I thank you for ah, educating me on the subject, and I will endeavor to remember it."

What a strange twist, but he supposed, there were merit to the argument, when you considered in odd magic, such as what might be in the Everfree Forest. A most peculiar place sometimes, with even stranger animals, and residents.

"IF we were to ah, procure one like that, what might that entail? Would we have to ah, physically travel to the Dragon Isles? I've never been, and know not if it is even safe to be there. You hear ah, stories after all, but then, I understand that a fair few are ah, exaggerated, due to old ah, prejudices, and that one would be better keeping a somewhat open mind."

Having been educated on one thing, he wished to be on the next. Just as their food would arrive, curtsy of Stare, who brought the tray with their steaming hot food. Made him twitch, but it were okay, he were trying to sort of expect these things now, to varying degrees of success.

On 2022-09-22 at 3:04 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

At his other question, she would smile a bit more "Usually it's something like a nice herbal tea, bobba tea or when it's cold outside, a hot chocolate" she would smile "Caffeine and I..don't exactly mix, so I try to stay clear of it" she finishes her drink and leans back a litlte in her chair.

"Then perhaps you should ah, not have too many of these. Though I suppose, despite it technically being a coffee, its more mild, due to it being a latte.

I must admit though, I have never tried ah, bobba tea. It always seemed rather ah, peculiar to me. How is it, as a drink? Are you supposed to eat the pearls?"

He'd take his food, and slowly bring a spoon down, then blow on his stew. It were reeking with a strong array of earthy smells, and seemed to have some good chunks of well prepared items floating in the mixture. He just had to wait for it to be a little bit colder, for him to eat. Though of course, he were happy his food were warm.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Well, if ever it comes for the ponies, trying to go and give you friendship, I'd say just put the corpse of something really big and nasty looking, clearly mauled, our at the entry point, with a sign in rough writing going *¤"%# off!*. Ponies can be a bit dense, but most of 'em will get that hint. Outside forces though? yeah, those are harder to guess. Like if the minotaur and centaurs ally, and go to claim land of their own, they see as more fruitful. They'd see that sort, and just get pumped. Hunter mentality, y'know? They love that stuff.

Lots I dunno what would do though. But if it's an isolated place, with water on all sides, it leaves out a fair few at least. Not many that'd attack via the sea.

Well... There's the Marauders Fleet, I suppose. Nasty folks those are. And their sea serpent captains are really not helping things either."

Leviathan would grimace, as a certain memory sprung forth about those. Thankfully, she did not go to such waters anymore. In large parts, because she did not enjoy that encounter. It had been far too close of a call for her there, to enjoy that, and had she not speared the main ship with a large icicle, it were doubtful that Morrow and Grognar would've taken their eyes off of her long enough, to ensure her escape.

"But like I said, I get your point, more or less, and it's in the end, up to you. Your home after all, and you know best what would go down. Can't say I blame ya for being worried though, considering what you've said about your kinsmen. Would get messy, if they grouped up. Double so if the east ones decided to go along.

Gotta say, if ever I go there, I'm tempted to go see those eastern ones. I got magic, and you two are working on it too. Might be there's an opening, and more rational folks, since magic use tends to take some degree of brain power. At least if you wanna master it. You would not believe how many dragons I've met, that have the potential, but are just too dense to make use of it properly."

Well, talking was all nice and good, but it were time for some nice, fresh air, and a bit of a stroll, towards the home of Ruby. A place where interesting reading materials awaited, and the start of trying to get their young friend literate. It'd certainly help, that were for sure. She'd like to be able to say nice things, without needing a translator. And it would help with magic studies.

"It's good being out of that box. I swear, it's convenient, but it makes my wings itch to be too long in that thing. I'm meant to soar the open skies, not get confined, you know?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

8 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"If it helps, a chance of a building materializing above something is very tiny, without going in great details, what I have confirmed has come from our world, tend to follow certain set of rules, and crushing homes is not one of them." Solar stated almost humorously "Until you happen to own something that causes huge spikes in magic or nullifies magic on a big area." granted he didn't have a lot to go by yet in this world, but he combined his knowledge about their world to make conclusions as he had yet to see a reason to assume that magic as a force was too different here. Solar thought for a moment "I think I have said all I need to, and bit more. In conclusion, if you see individuals like myself, that being those with metal replacing several parts of their body, assume them as potential threats and make sure to report it so that I can know of their existence, same with individuals who speak of things not true in this world. For structures in odd places, or structures with odd technology inside, they should be isolated and not explored until I can check them for potential dangers. And lastly, for pieces of technology or other unknown objects, one should follow the procedures for collecting potentially dangerous magical items." "The princesses should soon enough send more official instructions to your commanders, but I don't know when exactly."

"Noticed. General Tidal Wave will likely send the message out via carrier seagulls, and shark riders after, making sure all of the branches are notified. We have some storage area up to the north west, that we could clear out, and use as a temporary container unit."

In truth, it were one of their older *Intimidation cells*, as they called it. An underwater section of jails, in an air pocket with proper ventilation, surrounded by sharks, to discourage any potential wish of escape. It were barely used, as the last few generals had been less keen on those being widely used, but even Tidal Wave acknowledged that at times, having high priority targets temporarily in such places, until they could arrange for transport, were important. Never above 48 hours though. That were considered inhumane.

That said, they still had the hanging cages. Smaller, individual cages, hanging over certain town's shark area. For instance, in Shark Bay, where their main base of operations were. The sharks that would jump up and snap at the cages, would never hurt them, but the folks trapped there did not know they were well trained. 6 hour maximum in that, and used only if they were desperate for quick information. Or in case of bets, with the general and one of the lieutenants once betting, on who could last the longest. The general lost, when she were informed that her husband had made dinner reservations, a few days later. It had been a fair fun few days though.

"You can be assured that when we are informed, we will all be doing what we can, for the good of the citizens. The Coastal Guard will not falter in our duty."

The Royal Guards had it easy. Both branches were mostly inland, just dealing with the things popping up rarely, here and there. The Coastal Guard dealt with the actual monsters, and made sure they did not get inland. Not they ever acknowledged that. Arrogant little... No, now ere not the time for this. They had a job to do here, and it seemed that soon, that job would no longer include Solar. At least not for now.

8 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

Solar then looked towards the kobold siblings "I know we don't really get along, but I ask that you two would report it too if you see Sheez or anything else from our world, if you don't trust my intentions, trust in my blind loyalty to this world's ruler, I know that you know that we guards didn't follow the empire because we were treated well." he then turned to leave, but Sear interrupted him "Excuse me, Solar was it? Your appearance and the translated message reminded us from something, if you'd be interested in hearing." Solar paused and turned to walk towards her "Sure, go ahead..." and that would be all that was heard as Solar shrunk the magical barrier to only surround himself and Sear, and they would have a short chat in private before the barrier disappeared and he again turned to leave, and this time, if nobody interrupted him again, he would finally leave, making the siblings, especially Sheska, visibly less unpleasant, though it took few moments for her to get her head cleared, if Harpoon had been taught such things, she probably would have been able to tell that Sheska's reaction to Solar from the start was some kind of trauma response.

Harpoon looked towards Solar as he left, and gave him a respectful nod. He were not her superior, and she felt it would not be in good taste, to salute him in front of the kobold siblings. They seemed to show signs of trauma, and trying to show such things, might irk them further. Considering their friend had almost died, she did not think it appropriate, that she added more to their plate.

When he were out of range, she would let out a small sigh.

"Okay, that were a derailment, of quite a substantial degree it seemed... It appears we may have more dangers than just this assassin to worry about.

Speaking of which though - and because it seems you'd do good in thinking of other things - what are your thoughts on this? Your friend appears to be doing well, but will need rest. She needs to be guarded, just in case. What of you? Are you seeking to do something more... Proactive? I wouldn't suggest it, but I cannot legally detain you. Or rather, I don't want to, unless I'm given no choice.

What I'm trying to get to, is just trying to understand what your plans are going to be here. I would ideally say to lay low, until an arrest are made. You might disagree on that, and I'd prefer to just know if that were, rather than you trying to pull a fast one on me, and marching off."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

Light ponders at the thought about Sharks teeth... True, she doesn't really need to take care of her regrowing teeth.

" Hmmm... Maybe just increase your calcium intake then, I guess? So you won't have a hard time regrowing them?" Light gave a wild guess. Maybe Shark dosn't really need to intake anymore Calcium to begin with? She sure looks more strong and sturdier than Light, that's for sure.

Light already drank a lot of liquids and his weird status on his stomach is still making him feel full. Does he would just take a sip or a nibble on what Shark is having. He'd also show Shark some basic tips on manners on the table, like what the plates, utensils and table napkins or tissues are used for. 

 

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles would smile and nod "If I were to get you a Phoenix chick, I would first have to ask Ember for permission to enter the Dragon Lands, and to get a chick for you" she would say, nodding some "While it isn't actually necessary, it's better to have that assurance and permission, so that the other dragons don't think we're trespassing or anything" she smiles a little "while most are..okay with ponies being there now-a-days, some are still prickly about it" she chuckles some and nods "As for the Phoenixes in the Everfree, unofrtunately, as tehy are magical creatures, they are effected by the wild magic of the forest, making them a lot harder to tame, only Fluttershy could do that" she smiles.

After sipping a bit more on her latte, she would nod "Mm, mild coffee like Lattes are fine, though I still don't have too much, and for the bobba tea, it is quite nice and refreshing, especially on a warm, sunny day" she looks to him "And the pearls, well you can as they are edible, but some choose not to" she shrugs "It's really upto you if you eat them or not"

[Widdershins 9,959]

On 2022-07-26 at 6:14 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"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."

 Whett was mostly trotting alongside (in varying circles around Cover Up, really. It seemed this kirin could outrun him if it weren't for his attention span.) and stopped to stare at the other stallion with a wide-eyed blink as he talked. Scrunched in an expression of a thought as it occurred Whet responded.  "You seem to be doin' a stutter man. Here, maybe there's something I can do to help you feel better around me."

 They'd stop their walk momentarily as the Kirin walked in front of him to cross over to the side of the road and stick his head into the wheat for a quick second. Which given the prior conversation about combustion would have made his host flinch for a bit, but he came away with no ill effect with a thin wheat stick complete with underdeveloped characteristic wheat poof on the end. Whett walked over silently to Cover Up, handed him the tiny strand then proceeded to take a step back and plop down on his hindquarters to wave Pinkishly at his travelling partner.

 "Here ya go! Now stick that in my nose, man! Give me a tickle!"

 

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

@Sekel & Blitz

 

"Pride is simply an awareness, I say. I simply occupy my own airspace.

My own blood, is dragonblood. And as such, It does what I command it to do and it only ever boils when I want it to." Kaltrop said proudly. Then gave a blink with all the expression of intoning that he was pretty sure that's how that biology worked anyway.

[Sekel 692]

@Blitz Boom & @Props

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"Oh yes, you're right," Twilight said appreciatively, smiling at Zeehva. "I think for now, these are all the clues I'm going to get until we reach this ghost Alluria so I'm going to do my best to see if the documents are false or not."

Twilight would take the papers in her own magic and examined them thoroughly, trying to detect if they were false in any way. She cast some spells to reveal lies and forged documents but it all rang true. She did drop the papers in the midst of her investigation when Drone got attacked and twirled to face them. She had no idea what the shrine maiden was after but she wouldn't let her hurt her friend. She abandoned Magnolia for a bit to gallop up to the attacking Maiden with a fierce expression. It was unprovoked and it shouldn't have happened in the first place.

"What is your problem!? Drone was being perfectly civil and not attacking anything, even with Last Stand being here!" the princess shouted at the other Shrine Maiden. "I know Shrine Maidens and Manetids fight each other to the death over something or other Princess Luna left behind but this isn't the Shrine you protect, nor is there anything here for the Manetid to go after!"

@Blitz Boom & @Widdershins

DAWN STREAK & DAZZLE GLEAM

"Fine, whatever," Dawn muttered. "Blood boiling is just an expression anyway," she added and quickly trotted inside to cool off.

"Staying with you wouldn't be so bad, Stare," Dazzle smiled at her friend. "I guess waiting will have to be what we're doing. Is there anything good to do here? I'm technically a tourist after all and it looks like these four aren't much help," she added, waving a hoof at Pop, Benny, Kaltrops, and Dawn. When she looked she only saw the dragon and Pop there. "Or well, I guess just Pop and the angry sex dragon."

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"I'm only really able to become a griffin," Aurora told the Changeling queen. She hadn't had a chance to try out other forms but the theory should be the same. Concentrate on the form and then Aurora becomes it but she had no idea on how to actually implement it for other forms. "I haven't tried being anything else other than a griffin, really ... you want me to try other forms?" she asked nervously, back to being naive in the wake of all this new information. "Sorry, Queen Onache. I'm very, very, very new to this."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE & ATZY

Karmic and Atzy quickly made their way off the dragon. "Is this the famous brother you've been telling us about, Blitzy?" Atzy asked as she approached the pair. She'd take the dragon's words to heart and would file them away to keep a note of them. She smiled at Blitz's brother and gave a wave. "I'm Atzy. This is my sister Karmic," she added, pointing to the white earth pony. "Blitz said you had robots here!?"

"I'm just making sure Atzy doesn't make any trouble," Karmic smiled. "The sphynx is our friend, but he has a thing about dragons that's too lengthy to go into now."

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-09-26 at 5:15 AM, Blitz Boom said:

The ultimate goal in my mind, will be to find a middle ground here, for you need both approaches, in a correct balance. Lins' mistrust, and passion, provides energy that you will need, and a focus on what it is, that you want done. It it must be filtered through Sen's approach, where one have to push towards these goals, within reasonable confines, or be seen as a mere rebel, or troublemaker. You must neither seem too weak, nor too strong in your approach, lest you get banished again, or dismissed.

I would suggest beginning from the focal point, where the elders themselves, would have to acknowledge a problem. That being the elder who banished you in the first place. As I understand it, his schemes, did eventually come back to cause them personal trouble, in which you, and Omen, intervened. Is that correct? In that case, they too would have to acknowledge that having one such as him, abusing what is meant to be a position of leadership, for personal gains, at the detriment of your kin, are a situation, that would have to be avoided. Through that, one can mention examples of what he did, and question how many - if any - of his judgement were fair, or reasonable, and how many were just to further his own goals.

“Could it really just be like that? Getting the elders to see where the problem started is going to be tougher that saying what happened. The real Elder Solasan is long gone, and the one in his place was a fake taking on his appearance. Not to mention that said fake was tasked by the real one to continue in his place. Who’s to say if the real one was good once? What if he was just as bad as the fake?”

“If the real former elder was good at some point, then the fake one was good at hiding his darker qualities… But that’s beside the point. Even if this argument came up, it still wouldn’t help with the other matter. Exile as a practice has its merits, but that was because it was always a last resort… until we learned exactly when it wouldn’t be a last resort.”

“You also have a point about saving the village, Rosa, and some could vouch for us on that. It should help gain some folks who could back us, and it earned us some goodwill. Sadly, I think discussions with the other elders would happen in private, and the only one who can speak then is Ghilan. It won’t bring mother and father back, but we just don’t want anyone else to experience what we experienced. I still think about what I learned back at the Thicket, about other longma never finding peace because of unjust exile. It felt terrible back then, carrying around that pain and without anyone to help…”

“And sister? I may be disappointed in you about not seeing just what rashness has done to you, but seeing you like this also hurts me. I do what I can to keep what’s left of our family together, but I couldn’t let you walk a dark path again, not if it would destroy you. If that came to be, it’ll feel like I failed you, mother, and father.”

There was a hint that Sen was slowly falling into despair as he said his piece, though he’d still try to keep his composure, if only to make sure Lin understood exactly why all of this conflict was putting pressure on him, even going so far as to suppress his anger from earlier. She didn’t need to answer him immediately, only understand, and if the message came across clearly, it was enough.

“I guess all of this came about because we were too heated to see beyond what we know. We don’t know how things will turn out, and not knowing isn’t a good place to be. It’s terrifying, but we have to do something. I don’t like the idea that what we’ll do will amount to nothing, and I’d rather not sit and wait for something to change, not if I could help it. Thanks, Rosa, for helping us see things a little more clearly.”

Sen and Lin paused for a moment, their anger now turned into sadness, then an affirmation of their resolve. They looked to each other, still uneasy but now with some clarity. They know they can’t get everything back, but it was worth trying Rosa’s suggestions and hope something good can come of their desire. Once Rosa said his piece and the siblings took it all in, they both nodded. They had to try, but they would do so smartly and with respect. 

Once they’ve had a chance to cool off, Lin would go up to the thestral and give him a warm hug. It seemed like her smile was coming back, and all this brought back memories of the campfire after passing the dreary swamp, the time they first really got to know Rosa and affirmed their reasons for standing by him. Despite his past, the longma siblings know he has a good heart, a clear head, and a way with words when those would matter most. Eventually, even Sen couldn’t help himself and joined Lin to give his friend a hug. It was pretty much their way of saying thank you at this point. It may seem like things had resolved quickly, but Lin wasn't beyond unreasonable; if given enough rational arguments against her points, she'd begrudgingly concede. Judging by the arguments put forward, she had to understand that she wasn't at a very good vantage point.

On 2022-09-26 at 5:15 AM, Blitz Boom said:

When the baker arrived, Hammond would raise a paw, and wave at her, then do some hoof signs. They would translate into "Hello to pony", though she probably didn't know that.

When offered the ball, Hammond would take one, then look down upon the treat in his paw. He'd then munch through it, clearly not minding that there were more dough in it. Tasted kinda good actually, though he were still trying to learn what were good taste, and bad taste, so his opinion might not be too valid. Not with the sort of thing he has fished out of the trash, and considered good.

Yet when he were done, he'd look up at her, silently as always, then suddenly jump through a gate, that closed behind him. Around twenty seconds later, he would return, now holding a packaged in, piece of candy. One from Scarcity's visitor bowl. Specifically, it were a golden-paper packaged, ball of dark chocolate, around a center of hazelnut flakes, and creamy caramel. Rather high end stuff, and something that he thought would make for a good gift back for her. Like with Munchkin yesterday.

Peaks would notice Hammond waving, and she’d return the gesture. This one didn’t seem to speak, at least in the way Omen did, though she was noticing something similar about them. Odd creatures, but they were both courteous, so she didn’t mind the oddities. There were more freshly baked carrot balls, though he came back with a treat of his own to give to her. It was rather cute how he did that, even with the whole schtick of opening gates to somewhere she didn’t know.

“Aww… for me? Thank you so much! You know, you remind me of someone I met yesterday. She went by the name of ‘Omen.’ A strange one, but she was nice and very curious. Maybe you’d be interested in meeting her if there is a chance. Oh well, I should get back to the customers, but if you’d like to stop by again for more carrot balls, I make them fresh every morning. The bakery opens at six o’clock. Then again, you could stay if you want to hang out with Munchkin. She pretty much stays around the bakery until closing time.”

The baker would return inside to find Omen there, though the without seeing the gates open before her, it seemed like she just wandered in like a typical customer. No oddities here meant the baker wouldn’t get spooked all of a sudden.

“Hello again from yesterday, Miss Omen! I take it you’re staying in town for a while, right? What’ll you be having today? Oh, and before I forget, I saw this cute, dark squirrel-like creature with long ears just now with Munchkin. Didn’t make noise but made these signs with her little paws. They’re around the back eating some of those carrot balls I made yesterday.”

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Kujamih

Shark took... Somewhat well to what he were trying to teach her.

Tissues and napkins, were a little odd, but she understood why they were good. You might have a bad tasting thing stuck to your face, of your tongue couldn't reach. This sorta thing were good when it came to fish scales and stuff, getting stuck in her new fur too. A nice little thing to use sometimes.

Plates weren't hard for her to get accustomed to either. It were a thing you used, to carry food, when it wasn't possible to have everything in your mouth at once. Her mouth were a lot smaller now, than it were when she were in the ocean, so this made perfect sense. Especially for ponies, who always had these smaller mouths, but likely still wanted lots of food. She also got that it were not good to just have these sort of things stain everything, when not everything could just be licked clean.

Utensils though, were not a success. She did not think there were a need for those things to hold food, and transport them to your mouth. Especially not when it were then much slower, and you only got tiny bits into your mouth. And since one could argue with her, that it were good due to being able to cut the food, considering her teeth... Well, perhaps in time, when she cared one tiny little bit, about table manners, it might be worth it again, but right now, the fact others would judge her for it, were utterly inconsequential to her.

As she were standing and chewing through the leeks - an odd, yet refreshing taste to her, though she commented it would be better with some fish - Alonsus would finish a section of steamed greens himself, and wipe his mouth.

"Ah, a refreshing meal. Say then friend, what does ones like you, do to entertain yourselves? Ponyville are a collection of many a wondrous mind, with many fascinating hobbies. Might Alonsus ask, what your vice be? I can tell of mine own, if it pleases first? I collect porcelain figures, of mystical creatures."

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

 

@AuroraGlimmer

"I see. So the ah, local phoenixes, are not tamable per se, but normal methods. I have ah, seen one in town. It fluttered around a few, but mostly an ah, local astrologist. She haven't been home some weeks, but her friend seems to be ah, keeping her home watched, and the bird still goes there. I assumed a pet, but perhaps it is ah, more a matter of an ah, wild one, making friends.

As for the Dragon Lands, I understand your wish to ask permission from the dragon lord, but might some ah, local assistance, be of some help? Say, an escort? We do have a dragon from the main land, living in the area. There's ah, also Circle Pop's mate, but he's mostly in Canterlot. Just in case it would ah, make it easier for you."

Granted, he didn't really know the new, human-height dragon in the area. He had seen her in town once, and she had had arm in a sling, whilst nurturing a headache, by all accounts. Far as he knew, she lived in a small cave in the woods, with a small, pink bunny. One of the more eye catching new residents he had seen, considering she wore an adventurer robe, and he weren't used to see dragons care about clothes.

"And I will ah, keep your recommendation about boba tea in mind. I know they serve it here, so perhaps next time, I shall give it a try."

He'd take a few spoons of his stew, enjoying the heat it brought, in both warmth, and spice.

"How's ah, your food? Hopefully to your liking?"

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

 

@Widdershins

On 2022-09-26 at 8:33 PM, Widdershins said:

.  "You seem to be doin' a stutter man. Here, maybe there's something I can do to help you feel better around me."

"I'm s-sorry, I am a little nervous by nature."

Cover Up weren't scared per se, just... Well, kinda feeling like a constant outsider, clashing against the proper Equestria, as he traversed it. It were not the culture he were used to, and he just felt... Awkward in it all, more often than not. And worried that he'd cause offense to someone, by acting incorrectly.

Then now there where also Whett, who he worried might cause issues, that would then spill over on him. yet at the same time, it felt wrong to just leave him hanging, all by himself. It were a bit of a difficult situation.

On 2022-09-26 at 8:33 PM, Widdershins said:

They'd stop their walk momentarily as the Kirin walked in front of him to cross over to the side of the road and stick his head into the wheat for a quick second. Which given the prior conversation about combustion would have made his host flinch for a bit, but he came away with no ill effect with a thin wheat stick complete with underdeveloped characteristic wheat poof on the end. Whett walked over silently to Cover Up, handed him the tiny strand then proceeded to take a step back and plop down on his hindquarters to wave Pinkishly at his travelling partner.

 "Here ya go! Now stick that in my nose, man! Give me a tickle!"

The correct term for what Cover Up felt, as he saw Whett go into the wheat, were mortified. The farmer looking at them, just glanced on confused, unsure what were going on. Including when Whett returned with a single strand of grain. Cover Up turned from mortified, to relieved, and then confused, as he were handed the wheat strain. What where the meaning of... Oh no.

He had been told, as he were pondering, and that seemed like an ah... A very bad idea, basically. He would protest, but... The wheat hadn't been set on fire, and this seemed to be a test of faith, perhaps? Something to make him calm down, and understand it were not as bad as he feared? It were not ideal, yet if he were to be friendly with Whett, perhaps it would be best to humor him here, and let him prove his point.

"Well... O-Okay then."

So he'd do what he were asked, and braced himself for either fire, or snot. All the while, the farm worker would keep watching, still not sure what were going on, but too curious to look away anymore.

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

 

@Sekel @Props

On 2022-09-27 at 4:16 AM, Sekel said:

"What is your problem!? Drone was being perfectly civil and not attacking anything, even with Last Stand being here!" the princess shouted at the other Shrine Maiden. "I know Shrine Maidens and Manetids fight each other to the death over something or other Princess Luna left behind but this isn't the Shrine you protect, nor is there anything here for the Manetid to go after!"

On 2022-09-27 at 6:53 AM, Magnolia said:

What happened next, was something of concern. The Shrine Maiden had apparently tried to attack the Mantid. Not that Magnolia knew what either of those two were or why they were at odds, she would look pleased that Stitch Wraith had restrained them. "I don't understand the problem either of you two have. Like Zeehva said, we shouldn't be fighting here." her eyes bore a look of intensity.

"You are in the presence of many powerful ones here. My sister, and myself are one of them. I would highly appreciate it if the two of you can leave your grievances beside you. I don't know what causes either of you server, and quite frankly I don't really care. Keep it to yourselves." she walked up with heavy hoof steps, looking them both dead in the eyes before pulling away.

If Twilight tried getting too close, she'd be pushed back a bit, by Stitch's magic. She did not want a confrontation here.

"You don't know these creatures. One scout shows, then suddenly a swarm descends. Let me finish this!"

"Under the orders of her majesty, Princes Twilight Sparkle, this drone is to be kept alive."

The two of them were of opposing views, to some extend - Last did not trust Drone, but she had her orders - and as she were done, she'd glare up towards whomever it were, that had dived in, whilst that one in turn, would look down. The fire in them both withered away, as they saw eye to eye.

"Wha- Mom?"

"N-No, not like this. Lemme go! Lemme go!"

She struggled harder, which just made Stitch use more magic to keep her there, whilst Drone stopped resisting, and calmed down from her battle stance.

"Krxxttxh. Shrine Maides and Manetid, have fought for a millennia. If the Eternal Queen yet lived, she would be right to fear I were a scout.

Things are different now. I won't fight back."

Drone were let go shortly after, just before Hawk Eye would tentatively be let down too, just as Last approached. The odd looking, mutated pony, would then take off, running away from here. Last almost followed, but her duty... She had to stay, much as her eyes told otherwise of her wants. Duty before all. Such were the rules. Though Twilight should remember her too, from the forest in the valley. Just the last time, bugs had been running around in the bone construct she essentially were by now, and she were straining to control herself.

"Well, that's the most lively I've seen her yet. Not in the best way though."

"I'l uh, go find her, and try and see if I can't get her back here, just... M-More calm. I'll see you at the tower, probably."

Zeehva would look at Last, and understand to some extend, what were going through the mare's head. Apparently, that pony-ish creature, had been her mom, and then she had run off... Something were off here, and it were likely best that it got sorted.

"Wait, don't approach her. She's infested."

"You mean the whole *living hive* thing? Nah, she's been cleaned out, bugs, eggs, and everything, and those nasty critters were thoroughly burned. She's clean. And normally, apparently a bit depressed. You two need to talk I think."

Last now seemed even more willing to run off., but remained, straining against her own will.

Drone meanwhile, looked down at the odd mare, who she had answered before, about the history. Just very boiled down. And looking down were correct, considering the large insectoid creature, were about double the height of Magnolia.

"Krrxthxxtt. You ask of the guard, little one? This one is a princess, and the Shrine Maidens served one. This one found a new princess to serve, when they left."

Seems like things had been rather uh... Hectic, but they had calmed down a bit more now, so that were a plus.

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

 

@Sekel @Widdershins

On 2022-09-26 at 8:33 PM, Widdershins said:

"Pride is simply an awareness, I say. I simply occupy my own airspace.

My own blood, is dragonblood. And as such, It does what I command it to do and it only ever boils when I want it to." Kaltrop said proudly. Then gave a blink with all the expression of intoning that he was pretty sure that's how that biology worked anyway.

On 2022-09-27 at 4:16 AM, Sekel said:

"Fine, whatever," Dawn muttered. "Blood boiling is just an expression anyway," she added and quickly trotted inside to cool off.

"Staying with you wouldn't be so bad, Stare," Dazzle smiled at her friend. "I guess waiting will have to be what we're doing. Is there anything good to do here? I'm technically a tourist after all and it looks like these four aren't much help," she added, waving a hoof at Pop, Benny, Kaltrops, and Dawn. When she looked she only saw the dragon and Pop there. "Or well, I guess just Pop and the angry sex dragon."

Benny couldn't respond at first, considering he had been dragged outside, but he'd pop his head out to respond, once he thought the coast were clear. AKA: Pop were talking to Dawn. The latter of whom, would be entering the building, with pop following shortly after, worried that it might not be a good idea, to leave Dawn alone, when she were in a bad mood.

"That's not really how blood works. I think you're confusing it with temper. And pride's a normal dragon thing, but we're stronger if we have it under control. Otherwise, somepony might use it against you, yeah? And that wouldn't be fun. Not as fun as it were, to hear you sh- Ouch. Okay okay, I'll stop."

He had winched, from having something thrown at his rear, when he were about to yap off. Pop were still very much listening in, it seemed.

"Wanna come in too? Or just stand here having fun for a bit, with Dazzle and Stare?"

"We'll be fine. I can show Dazzle around a bit.

I guess... We can start at the bakery. That's always a good start, and we can pick something for lunch.

You don't have any allergies, do you? Just, anything you're aware of anyway?"

She should probably have asked that earlier, but well, better late than never, and Dazzle seemed fine, so it were probably okay.

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

 

@Sekel

"Clearly.

Try a pony form. Their shapes are close to ours, so they are the easiest to imitate."

She would prove that point, by going into her own disguise form once again.

Not the most inconspicuous, but she were a prideful sort, and refused to lower her height, nor her standards, as much as some others were willing. This were the closest to a commoner she'd stoop to, lest she had no other choice.

"You know how to cover your leg holes, and transform your wings, clearly. As well as hiding your horn. It's the same idea as a griffon, but with fur, instead of feathers. Among a few other changes."

In a sign of solidarity, Happy too, would go from his reformed changeling form, to his disguise.

"You just need to approach it with confidence. If you get nervous, it's gonna be less effective. Come on. I believe in you. Just out with the fires of transformation, and visualize a pony for yaself. Doesn't need to be your own from scratch Try thinking of one you know well. Always a fine start."

Most changelings were made to infiltrate, if they were good at transformation, and that often came down to copying the looks of others, who were then taken. Others liked to make up their own forms, and just try and blend in, without needing to learn all that much, about some random pony they never knew before. Like Happy did. His form were by his own design.

"If you cannot, I suppose that may be a trait of your hive. One living among griffons, looking as them. Can't say I know of a hive like that, off of the top of my head. Not exclusively."

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

 

@Sekel

"Yep. Molotov Boom, that's me."

Molotov's horn would vaguely glow, and some of the levers on his eyewear would be pulled around, as he looked at the mare's grinning.

"Oof, you ladies are pulling my leg, ain't ya? Heat signature, surface- It ain't the same. Hah! I love it.

Yeah, I got robots. Felicia's just moping 'round a bit, but Carmen's here. Come say hi."

He'd put his hoof to his mane, and when he pulled it out, a somewhat large, fuzzy spider would sit on it, and lifted a leg to awkwardly try and wave at the two sisters.

If they looked closer, they'd notice the signs that this one weren't organic. The legs for one, were dark, but the metallic joints became obvious, once you got close. And the eyes were not clusters of spider eyes, but just two diodes, glowing red. There also came a whirr of metal and gears, when she vocalized, which made Molotov chuckle.

"She says hi. Machine's a bit of a limited chat, but it's fine and all."

"It sounds as if you will be fine for now. I will return to the docks. You best behave now, everyone."

"I'll be as good as always, don't worry 'bout a thing."

Lest more were to be said, she'd take off. It wouldn't be long after she had taken off, before Felicia decided to enter the picture. Skittering out of a hatch above the door, and landing on the ground with a soft thud, as the tip of her bladed legs, hit the ground, with her bending down slightly along with the movements, to lessen the blow. Like some others would, by bending their knees.

Felicia were a lot less cuddly, than her smaller sister. Fully metallic in nature, and with no attempt at hiding it, the light glistening off of her sharp legs, should also tell that she were far more combat oriented, than Carmen were. If the fact she were far larger, didn't already give that off. She were large enough, to have room for a pony to comfortably lay on her abdomen, and a pony to lay flat on her main body. A pony and a half, if they sat close, so like, Atzy and Blitz.

She did not give out sounds, but would instead, use her front legs to scribble a *Greetings* into the ground.

"Ah, there ya were girl. Bit iffy 'round ol' Greatha, eh? No biggie.

This here's Atzy, Karmic, and Enzo. Everypony, this here's Felicia. She's Carmen's sister."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-09-27 at 1:57 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Could it really just be like that? Getting the elders to see where the problem started is going to be tougher that saying what happened. The real Elder Solasan is long gone, and the one in his place was a fake taking on his appearance. Not to mention that said fake was tasked by the real one to continue in his place. Who’s to say if the real one was good once? What if he was just as bad as the fake?”

“If the real former elder was good at some point, then the fake one was good at hiding his darker qualities… But that’s beside the point. Even if this argument came up, it still wouldn’t help with the other matter. Exile as a practice has its merits, but that was because it was always a last resort… until we learned exactly when it wouldn’t be a last resort.”

“You also have a point about saving the village, Rosa, and some could vouch for us on that. It should help gain some folks who could back us, and it earned us some goodwill. Sadly, I think discussions with the other elders would happen in private, and the only one who can speak then is Ghilan. It won’t bring mother and father back, but we just don’t want anyone else to experience what we experienced. I still think about what I learned back at the Thicket, about other longma never finding peace because of unjust exile. It felt terrible back then, carrying around that pain and without anyone to help…”

“And sister? I may be disappointed in you about not seeing just what rashness has done to you, but seeing you like this also hurts me. I do what I can to keep what’s left of our family together, but I couldn’t let you walk a dark path again, not if it would destroy you. If that came to be, it’ll feel like I failed you, mother, and father.”

"As mentioned, I grossly oversimplified it. There is more to it, to make them see there are errors, but the broad ideal would be to have them face the reality, that while there is tradition, and perhaps some merit to the practice, it is clearly proven that a rogue element, can use it in their own favor. As such, it would do well in mayhap have some more checks and balances, if nothing else. A small step towards abolition, on a long road. But at the very least, if more hurdles are there, it would potentially save others from being thrown out, for frivolous reasons. It will be a start.

As for the matter of fake or real Salosan, the fact remains that a copy were able to so frivolously take over, without anyone noticing. If he worked upon orders from the original, or worked from his own volition, is generally speaking irrelevant, as the former elder would have had a hoof in putting him in the position he got to, regardless of the circumstances. Which is still a clear compromise of his position, and judgement.

The matter of the citizenry having your back, is also not as irrelevant as you might think. If the populace have your back, then by and large, Ghilan might feel empowered to bring up the general sentiment of the village, as he will have more support behind him. It can also just be a general point in your favor, that you are seen with appreciate eyes. If these elders truly are leaders of your villages, then they must too, have some degree of vested interest, in your villages running well, which entails listening to others, on at least some level.

Also, if you got booted out, whilst being seen well upon, it could cause revolt. Any leader worth their position, would not wish for that to happen.

Things will not be easy, nor will they be quick. There will be pushback, as always happens, when it comes to changing tradition. But look at the long term impact, and understand that in the end, it will help more, to avoid unjust exile. As for those exiled... Well, I do not technically need the longmas permission to send some informational pamphlets around, to neighboring countries and cities, so they would be prepared for potential longma either facing exile, or wanting to leave their home for some reason. I am sensing from much of what you say, that a sense of community is important. It might be a thing that saves others, although as you say, some exiles will be for good reasons. Those will have a chance to prove they can learn, and improve.

Worry not, I will not give direct directions, as to where the longma would come from. The veil of secrecy, will remain intact for now."

He'd let out a sigh, and take a deep breath. He yet had one more thing to say, before they'd respond, and he wished to say so now, as he leaned forward.

"Your family have suffered gravely from this. That pain, and those lives, cannot be salvaged. Yet you still have one another. Take it from one, with precious little family of worth to speak of, in this world: Fight for each other. Not against each other. Do not walk a lone path, lined with dark decisions."

On 2022-09-27 at 1:57 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Once they’ve had a chance to cool off, Lin would go up to the thestral and give him a warm hug. It seemed like her smile was coming back, and all this brought back memories of the campfire after passing the dreary swamp, the time they first really got to know Rosa and affirmed their reasons for standing by him. Despite his past, the longma siblings know he has a good heart, a clear head, and a way with words when those would matter most. Eventually, even Sen couldn’t help himself and joined Lin to give his friend a hug. It was pretty much their way of saying thank you at this point. It may seem like things had resolved quickly, but Lin wasn't beyond unreasonable; if given enough rational arguments against her points, she'd begrudgingly concede. Judging by the arguments put forward, she had to understand that she wasn't at a very good vantage point.

Rosa were surprised by this very Equestrian way of showing appreciation, but he were receptive, and would return the hug in kind. It were a fine way to sort of ease the tensions, and were generally speaking, a nice way of interacting. He could certainly see the appeal at least, and when it were done, he'd rise up, and stretch his legs.

"Now then, as the fires are smoldering, rather than flaring, shall we perchance think of breakfast? We may as well begin the day, now that we are all awake."

On 2022-09-27 at 1:57 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Aww… for me? Thank you so much! You know, you remind me of someone I met yesterday. She went by the name of ‘Omen.’ A strange one, but she was nice and very curious. Maybe you’d be interested in meeting her if there is a chance. Oh well, I should get back to the customers, but if you’d like to stop by again for more carrot balls, I make them fresh every morning. The bakery opens at six o’clock. Then again, you could stay if you want to hang out with Munchkin. She pretty much stays around the bakery until closing time.”

Hammond's ears perked, as he heard this description, and he began to sense around him. Did not take long, for him to focus in on exactly where his sister stood, inside the store. Such a strange coincidence, but maybe he could go and say hello, before returning to Munchkin?

As the baker moved, he would too, though his movements, would get him more towards the door, where he'd be staring in, at the back of his sister. In case Munchkin followed, she'd see another, familiar face, in Shrimp, seemingly unable to decide where to point his long little face. Too many good smells in here.

On 2022-09-27 at 1:57 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Hello again from yesterday, Miss Omen! I take it you’re staying in town for a while, right? What’ll you be having today? Oh, and before I forget, I saw this cute, dark squirrel-like creature with long ears just now with Munchkin. Didn’t make noise but made these signs with her little paws. They’re around the back eating some of those carrot balls I made yesterday.”

Omen listened to the description, confused at what she heard. It sounded like her brother, but she could not feel him. Perhaps she had seen a regular squirrel? She thought they looked a lot like her brother. Maybe she should check, after she had gotten what she came from. Besides, the pony had called the squirrel a she. Hammond was male, as she understood it.

"Hello. I am here to get bread things for my friends. I do not know what they like. Whatever you think is good, for this. Maybe something small for SHrimp too? I think he likes the smells?"

She'd put the twenty bits down on the counter. She would just take the bakers best advise on what to spend them on there. It should probably be enough for some buns, and mayhap some morning cakes. It sorta depended on the prices, but she put down the cash, and intended to use them all here. So whatever they were worth in bread, she'd return to her friends with.

She had just put the bits down though, when she felt something poke her, and she looked down, to see her brother. Just as she knew him, but with a strange gem, around his neck. She'd lean down to see him closer, and sniff the gem. She did not get a scent from it... Strange. Very strange.

"Hello brother. How are you hidden from me? Is it the gem?"

Hammond would nod.

"Your master is very smart, brother. She will be good for you."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

"eeeeeee.... I like... Going to places I guess? Traveling yes... Seeing new places hehe." Light awkwardly replied.

"I tried collecting before. I always get the cursed ones, so I kinda have to quit collecting stuff hahaha."

 

Edited September 28, 2022 by Kujamih

[Rising Dusk 27,510]

@Blitz Boom

It was going to take a very long time for the darkness that was Twisted to wash away from Harrowmark.  Made all the worse when the land's High Priestess has a long memory and connection to the growth that lead to the rise of the dark wizard.  Hard to say what rough roads laid ahead and what Equestria's part would be in this recovering.  In the end, it also played into the important role Rising had to made right now as a beacon or savior.  

The family remained quite on their short journey down the tunnel to their next destination.  Grace and Dawn reflected upon the horrors, from their perspective, that they had just witnessed in the ritual chamber.  Star Echo was much more positively reflective and it did all the more to stoke his curiosity into the mystery that was Harrowmark for the scholar.  

Their next location continued the trend of introducing more and more different elements of the Harrowmark castle.  Abet, this was the first one considered messy among the more clean and more well kept areas of the castle.  Somepony was doing a bit of spring cleaning.  Well, at least in the stage of purging before the actual cleaning part began.  The family entered just in time to watch the smashing of more stone.  Plenty of mess around to piece together parts of this resume the older mare was attempting to sweep under the rug.  A half head here, a wing there, a snoot over there, an ear.  Her attitude toward these former statues was easily enough to tell who they belonged to, but all the pieces brought to life Twisted in Rising's mind.

Rising's name and titled has been traveling far and quickly inside the castle.  His name made sense at least, but it was just moments ago the knighting ceremony took place.  Harrowmark suffered the same plague Manehatten did, gossip travels faster than light.  "I am.  Well met Stone Matron," the detective greeted with a short Equestrian bow.  Better to follow the prince's lead in this regard.  "Ho ho ho.  A surprising coincidence indeed.  Who knew when we named him that it also served as a title of position in such a far away land," Star chuckled and adjusted his glasses.  "I have not been magically scanned before, no," Rising confirmed.  That answered his previous inquiry in how this was going to go.  An odd thought that Twisted himself might have been here for such a scan too for all this smashed statues.  Although, he was slightly considered about this 'don't move' part of the scan.  "He tends to break magic.  Perhaps a little more instruction, Stone Matron?" Dawn urged the older mare to continue.  Let's eliminate some of that 'not so bad' before the savior of Harrowmark breaks their stone scanner out of reflex mid scan. 

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

She would smile, closing her eyes as she enjoys the food she had been served, nodding "I am not familiar with that mare, or the phoenix who call her friend, so I wouldn't know about it, but as for getting local help, that would certainly be very much appreciated" she'd say to him, finishing her food and drink "The food is delicious, as always" she smiles to him, wiping her mouth and stretching some.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-09-29 at 6:30 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Hello. I am here to get bread things for my friends. I do not know what they like. Whatever you think is good, for this. Maybe something small for SHrimp too? I think he likes the smells?"

She'd put the twenty bits down on the counter. She would just take the bakers best advise on what to spend them on there. It should probably be enough for some buns, and mayhap some morning cakes. It sorta depended on the prices, but she put down the cash, and intended to use them all here. So whatever they were worth in bread, she'd return to her friends with.

She had just put the bits down though, when she felt something poke her, and she looked down, to see her brother. Just as she knew him, but with a strange gem, around his neck. She'd lean down to see him closer, and sniff the gem. She did not get a scent from it... Strange. Very strange.

"Hello brother. How are you hidden from me? Is it the gem?"

“Wait, you’re related?! But, you look like a pony… and he’s… well… much smaller and… I think I need to sit and think about this. Or… how about I get you your bread? There’s something here that you might like, especially if you’re putting down twenty bits at once. An eastern steamed bun platter with a side of sweet condensed milk as a dipping sauce. I say steamed buns even though some look fried, but they're actually steamed first before they’re air-fried. For twenty bits, you’ll get twelve buns: four steamed, four steamed and fried, and four filled with red bean paste. I’ll even throw in some carrot balls for your little friend, free of charge. I made more than I expected since there was a lot of leftover dough, and it wouldn’t be right if you paid for something that isn’t on the menu.”

The baker would grab four pieces of bread, two flaky croissants and two [other bread here], placing them in a paper bag with a second one filled with the air-fried carrot balls Shrimp liked from the day before. This wasn’t really how she expected to start her day, but there weren’t too many customers lining up for purchases, so there was a bit of time to rest and think this through. Appearance-wise, Omen and Hammond were so different, it would be odd to imagine them being related, yet there it was, right there as said by the Ki’Nathar. 

“By the way, Miss Omen, could you explain something to me? Who is your, uh… brother, and how exactly are you, well… siblings?”

In the meantime, the sound of familiar meowing came from the rear kitchen, making its way into the store. Soon enough Munchkin found the familiar guest from yesterday, and along with her is Shrimp. It may be time to do some more prodding and get its attention by going up to Omen and rubbing her scent all around her legs. The cat wondered how the refraction will act today, though it was possible it’ll get the same reaction as before, but it could be surprised at something new.

As for the siblings, they’d give Rosa some room and go back to being seated at the dining room. They still need to think on what they were told, and there was merit to what he said about having some support for them. Lin just didn’t see it, as even if they had some goodwill from the villagers, they were quick to go quiet. Some definitely were willing to interact with them a little more readily, but they seemingly had this silent agreement that they’d keep to themselves out of respect. No need to butt into another’s business if one didn’t have business with each other. 

Something else gave them pause, though. 

On 2022-09-29 at 6:30 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Things will not be easy, nor will they be quick. There will be pushback, as always happens, when it comes to changing tradition. But look at the long term impact, and understand that in the end, it will help more, to avoid unjust exile. As for those exiled... Well, I do not technically need the longmas permission to send some informational pamphlets around, to neighboring countries and cities, so they would be prepared for potential longma either facing exile, or wanting to leave their home for some reason. I am sensing from much of what you say, that a sense of community is important. It might be a thing that saves others, although as you say, some exiles will be for good reasons. Those will have a chance to prove they can learn, and improve.

Worry not, I will not give direct directions, as to where the longma would come from. The veil of secrecy, will remain intact for now."

He'd let out a sigh, and take a deep breath. He yet had one more thing to say, before they'd respond, and he wished to say so now, as he leaned forward.

"Your family have suffered gravely from this. That pain, and those lives, cannot be salvaged. Yet you still have one another. Take it from one, with precious little family of worth to speak of, in this world: Fight for each other. Not against each other. Do not walk a lone path, lined with dark decisions."

Rosa were surprised by this very Equestrian way of showing appreciation, but he were receptive, and would return the hug in kind. It were a fine way to sort of ease the tensions, and were generally speaking, a nice way of interacting. He could certainly see the appeal at least, and when it were done, he'd rise up, and stretch his legs.

"Now then, as the fires are smoldering, rather than flaring, shall we perchance think of breakfast? We may as well begin the day, now that we are all awake."

“Rosa? About what you said… the longma don’t like word getting around that they exist, even if we’re already making friends and meeting other creatures. Being isolated is something they’d like to maintain, so others knowing about them isn’t really going to make them calm. I guess even the exile part had an unwritten rule that the exiled should stay within the confines of the forest, but no one, not even the exiled, would know about that. Being outside of it is like entering a whole different world, one that might attract danger to those who remain.”

“It wouldn’t be worth anything if the exiled longma are ending up in Equestria. Others know about our kind, whether the elders back home like it or not, so all the more reason why the elders should really consider what we have to say.”

“I’m saying we need to be careful about getting the word out. There’s no need to make more enemies or cause concern if it can be done, but all of this won't amount to much unless we could put it into practice. We’ve helped the village out of a tough spot once; that’s got to have earned us some positive sentiment from the villagers, right? We just have to be careful when speaking with the elders.”

“I suppose, though that means I’ve got some apologizing to do. Even if they don’t know it, maybe I need to come clean with them.”

Sen and Lin paused to think and allowed what’s left of their heated emotions subside, no longer having any more to argue about. They once more looked at each other’s ways, accepting that they each had a point, but they were only seeing one side of the argument. Perhaps what they need was to accept that the other had a point to be made about their own approaches. As the thestral said, they need to fight for each other, especially since their wishes ultimately aligned. They needed to come to a middle ground, and they'd have to come to it one day, maybe sooner or later.

“We’ll think on what you told us, Rosa. This is going to be tough when it happens, but until then, it's best to have our options ready. On other matters, how was your evening? Did you sleep well? I bet having a nice, soft bed is a step up from the hard ground in a cave.”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby's worry didn't link in any way to who or how someone bothered her kind, after all, her kind would be just fine, no amount of firepower, skill, or numbers would make a difference when the land itself was so hard to navigate that only those who hatched there could do it with any kind of efficiency, and that was ignoring how toxic the place was for life, both literally and figuratively. It was probably why it had gone unexplored by others, even from outside it looked like a unpleasant place to be, and the few that ignored that would find an ecosystem as toxic as the volcanic ash floating in the air, where even the smallest of prey animals were violent and hostile. Her worry was entirely on how her kind would react, it was better for everyone that they were let to focus on killing each other.

"You really need to ask?" Ruby asked "I'm sometimes stuck like this for days, and while I'm not much of a flyer, you tend to miss even the lesser things when they are taken away." she made sure they weren't listened "You may ask why I'm not a pegasus, and the answer is simple, pegasus magic, those tiny wings are worthless without it." she wasn't sure if she had said that before, but if she hadn't, she had now "Though I must disagree regarding confinement to certain extend when it comes to myself, while of course forcing such on someone is not good, I myself do enjoy my confined spaces, thus I prefer caves over houses, even besides the pleasant climate, deep cave brings security and peace that open skies simply do not." this of course was matter of preference and upbringing, like her preference to walking over flying came from her living in a forest most of her life, her preference for caves over big open areas came from that being the optimal way for survival back home, the best way to defend from a bigger dragon was to be in a place where they couldn't fit. 

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

Even though it was impossible to see from Solar's half-metallic face, he didn't share the arrogance of the royal guard against the coastal guard, because in their world, there wasn't such separation, sure they had border guards as their own sector, who in turn were split between coastal and land based, but all of them were Solar guards, they just had different duties, and while he was unarguably more capable than the more basic troops, they all were best at their own duties. That didn't mean that he didn't look down on the Coastal guard at all though, he did, but not specifically, to him, every single guard in this world was...weak, in lack of a better world, and even that he blamed on the princesses and not the individual guards, after all, it wasn't the guard's fault that the princesses hadn't put more effort into the military capabilities of their military.

"We don't really have plans." Trox stated "Onache, who I wouldn't necessarily call a friend, and more like a...travel companion who we have mutual interests with, she has been showing us around and that was the plan until, well." he gestured towards her room "We are not planning to go after whoever did this, because while Onache did save our lives, the only real upset is the fact that I lacked the knowledge to help her, and we don't really have the tools to track them down anyway." "This may seem cold, but the truth is, things like this, it's the norm for us, or at least was, being hunted, losing an ally, we have grown numb to it." 

"We won't hide either, if whoever it is wants to try their luck, so be it, we are not scared of some random killer, we have faced lot worse, and frankly, you finding them before they come from us is not to protect us, it is to protect them, because while we won't hunt them down, you can be sure we won't hold back either if they come for us." "We are lot more concerned about Sheez, and that's family business. not something you or any other guard can help with." 

Chega joined in, she had moved back to Sear now that Sheska had calmed down "You could come stay in the tavern with us, I'll pay, you would have a place to stay while you plan your next move and we would be in the same place to make the guard's job easier." "If for nothing else, you still owe me that story you promised." "I guess we could do that, it's not like we have anywhere else to go, and we can't exactly live in the hospital." 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-09-30 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Wait, you’re related?! But, you look like a pony… and he’s… well… much smaller and… I think I need to sit and think about this. Or… how about I get you your bread? There’s something here that you might like, especially if you’re putting down twenty bits at once. An eastern steamed bun platter with a side of sweet condensed milk as a dipping sauce. I say steamed buns even though some look fried, but they're actually steamed first before they’re air-fried. For twenty bits, you’ll get twelve buns: four steamed, four steamed and fried, and four filled with red bean paste. I’ll even throw in some carrot balls for your little friend, free of charge. I made more than I expected since there was a lot of leftover dough, and it wouldn’t be right if you paid for something that isn’t on the menu.”

The baker would grab four pieces of bread, two flaky croissants and two [other bread here], placing them in a paper bag with a second one filled with the air-fried carrot balls Shrimp liked from the day before. This wasn’t really how she expected to start her day, but there weren’t too many customers lining up for purchases, so there was a bit of time to rest and think this through. Appearance-wise, Omen and Hammond were so different, it would be odd to imagine them being related, yet there it was, right there as said by the Ki’Nathar. 

“By the way, Miss Omen, could you explain something to me? Who is your, uh… brother, and how exactly are you, well… siblings?”

Omen would look at the bag of bread, then slowly nod, and let some of her long tongue out. It would wrap around the top of the bag, and she'd lift it off the table, so that she could lift it up next to her.

As for the questions though? Well, she and Hammond would both look at her, with big, pale eyes, as she'd give an answer. if it were one the baker liked, were hard to say though. Omen did not know, nor really cared. The baker had asked, and thus, Omen would answer.

Before talking, she would open a small gate though. Around the size of her head, leaving a fair window into her home realm, in all it's calm shades of dark and grey, moving around in the dim, ghostly light.

"This is our home. Where Mother make us, and we wait.

She can not make us whole herself. We are shadows, and eyes, until we are made whole.

When someone comes, who have magic, we flock to them. We offer us to them, in exchange for being whole. If Mother likes them, she will tell them how to use their magic, to make us complete. The masters then make us, and give us form. In exchange, we serve them, and learn from them, until we are ready to live ourselves.

Hammond has a master, who wanted him to look like this. And long ago, Master Discord, decided I should look like this.

We look different, but we are still family, And brother is lucky. His master seems very smart. She will teach him many things."

Hammond for his part, would scurry forward, and turn the gem, then turn it up, to show to the baker. The backside of the gem, had itself a little metal plate stuck to it, with a short message, in small, engraved letters.

"To my dearest Hammond.

If found, please return to Scarcity's Antique Boutique, in West Canterlot, for a reward."

"Hold on."

Omen would poke her head through the gate, along with the bag, and open a gate not far away from it, after looking over a little bit. She had to stretch her tongue to the limit, but she did manage to get the food through, and have it land on the kitchen table, where her friends would be near. Along with Shrimp, who had followed the bag, and were sniffing and circling it. Though he'd return when he noticed the tongue retracting, and the gate closing afterwards. Same with the one in the bakery, once they were back, and Shrimp returned to sitting upon her head.

"There.

Also, Hammond is not exactly like me. His master made him more like a real being. Master Discord, just made me look like a pony. He said I am made differently. The kitsune said the same. I do not understand, but ponies can be strange. Many things I still do not understand about you.

 I can ask something too now, yes? How does baking work? I see others put stuff in a box, and then bread comes out. Is it magic?"

On 2022-09-30 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

In the meantime, the sound of familiar meowing came from the rear kitchen, making its way into the store. Soon enough Munchkin found the familiar guest from yesterday, and along with her is Shrimp. It may be time to do some more prodding and get its attention by going up to Omen and rubbing her scent all around her legs. The cat wondered how the refraction will act today, though it was possible it’ll get the same reaction as before, but it could be surprised at something new.

Omen would look down, but not react beyond that, while Shrimp would lean over, hearing the sound of meowing, and hiss down towards the cat. Hammond would pick this time to scurry up his sister's side, and go up to him, where he would try and pet Shrimp, to calm him down. It seemed to work, considering the pleased coo's that came from him, but it appeared he were still weary about Munchkin. Mayhap though, they could have a bit better interaction this time around, as it were getting progressively less troubling, with their every meeting.

On 2022-09-30 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Rosa? About what you said… the longma don’t like word getting around that they exist, even if we’re already making friends and meeting other creatures. Being isolated is something they’d like to maintain, so others knowing about them isn’t really going to make them calm. I guess even the exile part had an unwritten rule that the exiled should stay within the confines of the forest, but no one, not even the exiled, would know about that. Being outside of it is like entering a whole different world, one that might attract danger to those who remain.”

“It wouldn’t be worth anything if the exiled longma are ending up in Equestria. Others know about our kind, whether the elders back home like it or not, so all the more reason why the elders should really consider what we have to say.”

“I’m saying we need to be careful about getting the word out. There’s no need to make more enemies or cause concern if it can be done, but all of this won't amount to much unless we could put it into practice. We’ve helped the village out of a tough spot once; that’s got to have earned us some positive sentiment from the villagers, right? We just have to be careful when speaking with the elders.”

“I suppose, though that means I’ve got some apologizing to do. Even if they don’t know it, maybe I need to come clean with them.”

"A fair assessment, but I do not want your kin to be seen as mere animals, or unknown dangers, coming from your forest... Perhaps a more sensible approach, is to let the rumor mill work in our favor? Let some depictions stumble into some places where eyes are, like taverns, and minor places of learning, like local libraries? A vague notion in them, speaking of something along the lines of *A rarely spotted, yet friendly creature, hailing from unknown lands", with some flourishment, depending on the localle, of course. It will not directly set something up, but it will mean that areas that are not aware of your kind, will know what you look like, and that you are a sentient race. It should avoid the general hassle, of being shot at by self proclaimed town defenders.

I could whip something up, one of these days. Forgery is a rather calming process, and quite frankly, I would not leave it to just anymore. The wrong wording, and it would be seen more of a wanted poster, or one that seemed like others would be paid, if they captured one alive. You would not believe the sort of thing, that amateur work can cause.

But it will be something to mull over, for a while, until a properly secure plan, can take place. I would perhaps think pamphlets. Put in a box set to fail at the right time, it could cause a more natural spread of information, going from one town, and spreading... Hmm, much to ponder.

Also, in regards to your presence, there are other than simply Equestria. You have to remember, that the kitsune, have also interacted with you now, and have taken it rather well. They are an elusive, but prominent part of Neighpon, so I'd say that integration is not as hard, as some might think, since both they, and equines, appear to overall accept you. barring some... Unfortunate elements, here in Equestria."

He'd wander over and opened the fridge, to see if perhaps, there were something in here. He found a tin of butter, and a packet of expired bread. Riveting...

On 2022-09-30 at 2:12 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“We’ll think on what you told us, Rosa. This is going to be tough when it happens, but until then, it's best to have our options ready. On other matters, how was your evening? Did you sleep well? I bet having a nice, soft bed is a step up from the hard ground in a cave.”

"I slept fairly well, though I do look forward, to when I no longer need to lay down, as prescribed by the kitsune doctor. I miss hanging from the ceiling. Yet it were still fairly good. However, speaking of the day, we may have to-"

It were around then, that Omen would pop through, with a bag of bread, and then vanish quickly after.

"...It appears that Omen thought of us then. I must remember to thank her for that, when she returns.

I have some butter here. Have a seat, and I will get us some knives. And do look in the gift basket, please. I think there is a glass of marmelade in there."

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

 

@Kujamih

"A wandering soul? Equestria can always use those. Yet if cursed items be your weakness, Alonsus think that mayhap, you should get yourself some help, lest you end up turning to stone, or some other grim fate. Such grave luck as yours, should not be your downfall."

They got their fair share of adventurers passing through, these days. He would not lie and say, that the thought of joining some were not tempting, but he preferred to be in a stable environment. Especially as otherwise, his parole officer might raise the alarm, thinking he were attempting to escape. That he could not risk.

"What of your lovely mate? Pray tell, what do you do for fun?"

"I chase fishies! And mate is very smart. He is... Teeea-chiiii-ng. Teaching. He is teaching me many new thing. Maybe learn fun friend thing too!"

She enthusiastically fluttered in the air a little bit, grinning from ear to ear.

"Ah, an unburdened soul. To be so light of mind and temper, yes?

Have you thought of taking her, and see the old castle in the woods? Alonsus may not know all, but he knows it to be an important part, of equine history. Mayhap you will both find it a fascinating place."

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

 

@AuroraGlimmer

"She is ah, rather hard to miss, if you do spot her. She's a quite tall, striped pegasus, with frames and no glasses, and a small vest. The most ah, peculiar doctor I've  ever met, but anyway, I should perhaps ah, set that aside for now.

The dragon, we can go and ah, check up on her, after we finish eating, if you'd prefer that? I'm sure we'll be fine, long as we don't run into some of the forests ah, lesser friendly inhabitants."

He were not far from being done at this point, with both his stew, and his drink finished within a few minutes. After that, it were a mere formality of paying the bill. Since it were his idea to go here, it seemed only fair that he paid for this for them both.

He'd await her decision, of course, but if she were ready, he'd have no issue moving towards the Everfree Forest right away. Hopefully it would be fine. He had heard some... Odd rumors, the past few days, so he weren't sure what would be out there right now. He wouldn't normally put too much stock in it, but he had seen some like that shark pony in town, and the odd, unnatural garden that had seemingly popped up out of nowhere, around the princesses' castle, that made him have to question if perhaps, this time there were some hold to the talk.

If they would be moving towards the forest, or remain in the diner a bit more, he'd still elaborate, about the dragon he were mentioning before.

"I know ah, very little about the dragoness in question. I've seen her only once, in fact. She appeared to have hurt her arm, and were nursing a headache. A most peculiar sight regardless. Walked on two legs, like the ah, faery tale depictions of humans. parchment-yellow scales with purple dots, short hair or horns, I am ah, not certain, and wearing something resembling a somewhat rough, adventurer's garb. I believe I saw a shoulder bag too, but I could ah, not see much. I figured it would be rude to stare.

She also appeared to have a pink bunny, that were ah, riding her shoulder. I recall that one rather clearly, as it ah... Well... I must admit, it is ah, hard to forget the sight, of a bunny that is ah, flipping you off."

An aggressive little thing it appeared, but he supposed, hanging out with a dragon, one had to be a little more headstrong. It were just a rabbit though. What were the worst it could do?

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

 

@Rising Dusk

"A magic breaker? Explains a lot, yet you must still be more than you seem. He crushed others who negated him before. Hm, perhaps those from your land, are just different? Guess we'll see as time goes.

Now then, the scan..."

She'd wander over and rummage through a shelf, until she uncovered a wooden box. Unfolding it, she would reveal it to contain a piece of granite, around the size of her head, and a pulsating crystal, formed like a bat wing. It were brimming with magic, but nothing overly hostile. It would be somewhat akin to what were used, when Lily began to watch others, combined with a memorizing and projection spell. The stone itself, also seemed to have some magic on it, but it were seemingly dormant, albeit connected to the wing in some manner. It were likely an activation magic.

The stone matron would put the stone on a small pedestal, after clearing it of some pieces of the filth she had to make before, and then brought the gem over towards them, so that the detective could get a nice look.

"A simple little thing. It will scrutinize you from top to bottom, and then carry it to this rock. It gives me a nice, detailed look at you, for when I begin work on your real statue. So you best take on a good posture when I begin young man, and don't interfere with the spell. I just hope you're not ticklish. Records show, that Brackwater the Faithless, had to be tied down to get scanned, because of that.

Hero or not, don't think I won't do the same, if you try anything. Even if your parents are watching."

She'd keep smiling, though the way the prince got a slightly nervous tick at his eye, indicated that she were not joking.

She'd have him put on a proper stance, and posture. A good ten minutes at least, to upwards of a half hour, would be spend on that, as she were somewhat nitpicky on things, and did not want a boring statue to work on. Though if she had to get some rope and tie him down, she'd just do that instead, and then get creative with the result.

Regardless, once the wing came forth, it would float in the air, and then hover around Rising. He'd definitely be able to feel that he were getting scanned, over every inch of his body, which would give off a somewhat tingling sensation. Something which could be seen as tickling, in case he had an issue with that.

Curiously though, as he were scanned, he'd also be able to see small pieces of the rock fall off, and when all were said and done, there'd be an exact copy of him standing there, perfect down to the last detail. Unless he had moved, in which case they had to start over. This were delicate work, and it did not get better, if he were to move around, or interfere with the transference process.

Provided they'd eventually get through this, the wing would crumble to dust after use, and the matron would go over, and blow excess dust off of the granite statue.

"Yes, that should do nicely. Just need the right rock, and colors now, and you'll be making a fetching exhibit, in our hall of heroes."

"Pardon my inquiries, stone matron, but might I ask how long it might take?"

"Sundown, if I get to work now. So shoo. Shoo all of you. I have work to do, and precious little time to do it in, if I want it done, to finish off the festivities."

She'd literally point them towards the door, with a dismissive motion. She'd be more in to talking later, but right now, she needed to focus.

They would not make it far out of the door though, with it closing behind them, before a young diamond dog would creak it open again. The pale-yellow dog would bow as he saw them, each in turn - the prince, then rising, then the rest - before taking his paw back, behind his cape, and pull out a box, similar to what they had just seen in use.

"Sir Dusk. Stone Matron Gretchen, wish you to have this. She said she believed you'd get a kick out of it. I uhm... M-Must go again. Gods be with you, and your family."

He'd close the door again, after bowing before Dusk once more. And inside the box, would be just what they had seen in action before, between one and five times, depending on how workable Rising had been, in the process.

"I may have to arrange for a holder of sorts. I can imagine, there shall be several others, who wish to impart gifts upon you."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"My heritage show in this manner. Wind aligned dragons are free, and seeking the clear, endless horizons. Being contained feels a bit iffy. The exception is the cave system where I live, but that comes down to the other half of it. Water aligned ones likes their territory, and that one's mine."

Leviathan would yawn again, small sparks crackling at the edge of her mouth.

"And I get your point about pegasi. Really says something, when a race have wings, but can't use them properly, without magic. Seems a bit pointless, y'know? But evolution's a funny thing sometimes. Mayhap once you get a better grasp of your magic though, we can see at making the pegasi part fit better? Oooh, or bat pony. Maybe that would work better for you. Their wings look enough like dragon wings, that you could use your real ones, and get you some lift. Long term idea though. I remember what you said, about how long it takes for you, to make a form in the first place. Never hurts having long term plans though, right? Sides, bat ponies are cave and forest dwellers too, so no one would bat an eye, if you pretty much went like you do normally then, if you looked like one of those.

Plus, I think you'd look kinda pretty, in a more dark color."

She were mayhap just talking, to fit some time for now. Ruby knew best where her house were after all, and it seemed bad to go in there, before her. The whole territory thing, that she knew well too. It tended to irk her, when someone went in before her, and Ruby seemed the sort who'd tear off a limb, if they did that to her. At least if she had a bad day.

She were also talking since she were excited. Soon, they'd get to work, on teaching their young friend how to understand the language, which meant that she could communicate with him properly. That were something that were making her feel all giddy.

"I really hope Charir takes quickly to his lessons. It's gonna be so good, when I have the chance to talk to him without the translation. Not that I don't appreciate you, Ruby. Of course I do. But it'll still be nice to not have him look at me so confused sometimes."

She'd skip along, and out of boredom, summon herself a few clouds. Weaving through them with her right hand, they'd merge and follow her, changing shape into that of a long, snake-like dragon, flying alongside her. It almost seemed as the thing were dancing, as it spun around, doing a few spins, and letting out puffs of pretend smoke.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Not your friend you say? You sure seemed to have gotten overly concerned over somepony, that you talk so casually about now."

Harpoon gave a small smile towards Trox and Sheska. Didn't seem like they wanted to admit that the queen meant more to them, than they let on, or they just weren't overly aware of it. This whole thing, would not have affected them as much, had they not cared about her, as anything else, than one with a similar goal, showing them around. If that were the case, why not just leave here quickly, with the dragon and other kobold? They seemed to be friendly towards them too. So why even be here in the first place?

Of course, might just be that they were good kobolds, and in general cared about others, on some level. Or felt some sort of obligation. Could well be that she were just overthinking this, but it didn't seem so to her.

"Be that as it may, if you're going out there, you'll be on your own, lest Officer Stargazer comes around. I need to protect the patient, in case the assassin tries to finish the job. I can't take the risk."

"Seems an appropriate time, for me to come around for an update."

"Sir."

"Ma'am."

The two would salute one another, as Stargazer wandered into the room. He seemed even more tired than before, as he wandered in. It appeared as if things were both physically, and mentally draining him.

"From my end, we have yet to find the assassin. We found the likely position, and I've roused every guard that were stationed in town, to help, but we're running on very little. Including who it were, that have done these things in the first place.

A fellow Night Guard, have agreed to watch over the original victims. And if you are looking to head out anyway, my request to take this position, seems timely. It makes for a better place for the others to track me down, in case of updates.

*sigh* Any news on your end?"

"The queen is alive, and are expected to make a full recovery, but it will likely be upwards of a few days. There's been... Other updates, but nothing related to this particular case, and I don't think it right to burden you currently."

"It is appreciated."

He'd pull over a chair, and sit down in it, then look around at the others.

"I can assure you, that we will put what resources we have, into finding the culprit. Sadly those resources are few, as Princess Twilight does not currently have a dedicated guard force. You have my apologies, and promise that I will bring this up to her, next time I have the chance to meet her."

"...It appears things are covered here then. I will continue my watch over this group. I'll send word if something happens, in relation to this case."

Harpoon would be ready to follow, as the group would move on. Eyes and ears perked, expecting something to happen, but hoping it would not.

[Sphinx-Ara 3,569]

@Blitz Boom

Skittles had just finished her food and would nod "Ah yes, I have heard of the doctor, haven't had the chance to meet her, but she sounds...ecentric, or is exotic a better word?" she'd ask, tilting her head beore shaking it and smiling at him "but she sounds like someone I might like to meet" she says and then raises an eyebrow at the mention of the dragon "So she is bipedal? I mean most dragons are, as for the coloration, perhaps a bit more..different, as most dragons have green, red, purple etc scales" she then laughs at the mention of the pink bunny flipping him off "Oh boy, sounds like we have another angel bunny on our hooves"

After she finsihed all her food, she'd pay for her orders and stand up "I would love to go see this friend of yours, and hopefully get you your very own Phoenix Chick."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

" perhaps... Thanks for the suggestion good sir." He replied to Alonsus

He now then ponder about Shark more thanks to what Alonsus just said.

It made him wonder now.... What DOES make Shark Jaeger tick? He never did see Shark got angry.

He looks even ever so deeper at sharks eyes that at a point he notices and blushes a bit.  Maybe it would be best that he does not do that at all. 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-10-05 at 6:18 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"This is our home. Where Mother make us, and we wait.

She can not make us whole herself. We are shadows, and eyes, until we are made whole.

When someone comes, who have magic, we flock to them. We offer us to them, in exchange for being whole. If Mother likes them, she will tell them how to use their magic, to make us complete. The masters then make us, and give us form. In exchange, we serve them, and learn from them, until we are ready to live ourselves.

Hammond has a master, who wanted him to look like this. And long ago, Master Discord, decided I should look like this.

We look different, but we are still family, And brother is lucky. His master seems very smart. She will teach him many things."

The baker could only gasp and hold her mouth agape as she peeked into the black void to see Omen’s home. It was bizarre, and a little discomforting, but there was a kind of understanding behind it. A reason why creatures like Omen’s mother would want her children to find lives outside of that place. Maybe some of the details were lost to her, but Peaks could understand why it needed to be done.

“I still find all of this difficult to wrap my head around. Your home, your family… It’s a little too much to take in right now, but your friends seem to have taken in all of this just fine. Maybe I won’t be able to understand everything that goes into how you both came to be, but as long as you’ve gone to good homes, then I suppose that would be enough for me to know. I don’t know this Ms. Scarcity, but Discord’s an old name who caused trouble for Equestria a while back. He seems to be doing better nowadays, but it’s not my place to snoop. Maybe Princess Twilight and her friends managed to get through to him.”

“To be honest, your mother may have taken a gamble with letting other creatures raise her children, but if she’s been going with the same process all this time, something must be going right. You’re a strange one, Ms. Omen, but you surround yourself with good friends, and their better qualities will carry on over to you. Same goes for your brother.” 

“Now, to your question about baking… I like to think the bread making process is magic, but it’s a lot less enchanting than it looks. I make the dough and throw in the ingredients for the different recipes I sell. Then, I put the bread in all of the different baking trays needed for certain types of bread and put them in the oven, or the ‘box’ you might be talking about, to let them cook. The important thing is to make sure all of the ingredients are mixed just right before baking. I suppose the ‘magic’ that you might be interested in seeing is watching the bread rise. You may see a flat sheet of flour and water at first, but give it enough time, and you’ll see them rise and turn puffy.”

Peaks offered to show Omen the kitchen, her equipment, and the large industrial ovens she uses to bake the bread she sells. It may look cramped in the back, but having all of that equipment around only to have them set off to the side was a side effect of having a large central workstation where all of the preparation happens. Mixers, rolling pins, and bottles of different liquid ingredients were strewn about, but the process was the important part that determines the kinds of bread that will go on the shelves. 

If Omen were to take a look around, she’d see a variety of bread in different shapes and ingredients. All of this was dictated by the tools Peaks uses, and the ingredients that determine the flavor. Having a supply of baker’s yeast was just about the most important thing to have to see the dough rise, yet proper measurements were just as important.

“So, I normally don’t let customers see what goes on in the back, but I take it you are curious about the process of baking bread, yes? Maybe I can give you a little demonstration because my morning is going a little slow. I gotta prepare another batch of carrot balls for our little friends anyway.”

The mention of carrot balls seemed to draw Munchkin’s attention away from the refraction, but it got the kind of reaction she intended to see from Shrimp. Maybe one day, he won’t be too agitated by the sight of a creature attempting to steal away his caretaker, but today may not be that day.

On 2022-10-05 at 6:18 AM, Blitz Boom said:

I could whip something up, one of these days. Forgery is a rather calming process, and quite frankly, I would not leave it to just anymore. The wrong wording, and it would be seen more of a wanted poster, or one that seemed like others would be paid, if they captured one alive. You would not believe the sort of thing, that amateur work can cause.

But it will be something to mull over, for a while, until a properly secure plan, can take place. I would perhaps think pamphlets. Put in a box set to fail at the right time, it could cause a more natural spread of information, going from one town, and spreading... Hmm, much to ponder.

Also, in regards to your presence, there are other than simply Equestria. You have to remember, that the kitsune, have also interacted with you now, and have taken it rather well. They are an elusive, but prominent part of Neighpon, so I'd say that integration is not as hard, as some might think, since both they, and equines, appear to overall accept you. barring some... Unfortunate elements, here in Equestria."

“You could do that? I… mean, we wouldn’t want to impose this on you, Rosa, but you are right that we should think on this for a while. We should be careful.”

“Kind of makes me wonder exactly how the kitsune did it. They keep to themselves, and not many ponies appear to have seen them, yet there doesn’t seem to be much in the way of trouble. Or at least, visible signs of troubles surrounding that. That kind of perspective could help us, even if we are just thinking of ways to approach the issue.”

For now, it would seem that the conversation would go into hypotheticals, but the siblings were a little more comfortable. Seeing Omen drop off a bag with their breakfast looked like it was their signal to start preparing, and they’d be getting more than just a couple of berries for the morning. The assortment was pretty noticeable with three types of bread already packaged with some dipping sauce. In the meantime, Sen wandered over to the gift basket as instructed and pulled out what could be the glass jar Rosa mentioned. He wasn’t sure what it was, but it might be something else to add to their meal.

“I think this is it?” The longma placed the glass down on the table and attempted to read the label, though he wasn’t getting much from attempting to read it. “Mar-me-lade… Is this a fancy name for something?”

"While we're at this, maybe you'd like to take it easy today? I suppose we are in a rush to do anything, well... unless we're suddenly called away to something important..."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom
Leviathan's opinion on Ruby in darker colors went either ignored or unnoticed by Ruby, as she didn't really understand physical attraction in the same way that most did, and thus couldn't really form an opinion on things like color, though she did agree on the usefulness part, as batpony would have better fit her lifestyle and the darker color would have helped with hiding, she liked her real form the most of course, but even she didn't deny that her bright red appearance wasn't the most stealthy thing out there. But, there was one thing Leviathan had forgotten "If I am to make a new form, it will most likely be that of an Equestrian dragon, while walking bipedal would take some practice, it would be the most practical and comfortable form that is not my own." "It also takes less work when the only thing to change is the general structure." the thing about turning into a pony was that besides the shape being different, she also had to grow hair, reshape her teeth and do other changes like that, after all, she was not only changing species, but animal class, changing from reptile into a mammal, but if she was to change into a different kind of dragon instead, she would only need to change shape and size, while the basics of her physicality could stay the same.

"It is unlikely that he'll take long to learn the basics, but learning specific words may take bit longer, for example, friendship, while we do have a word for it 'sunera', it is not used, and thus the meaning is lost, it took me some days of research to understand what exactly is meant with it." "Lot of our language is lost to time, and I had to relearn my own language almost as much as I had to learn a new one." 

Charir, as to be expected at this point, watched excitedly at Leviathan's cloud dragon, he really enjoyed seeing her magic in work, partly because he didn't really understand it, and could just sit and watch for hours and hours, or in this case, walk and watch. He realized something that was almost funny to him, for his whole life he had been taught to be against magic, yet, the moment he saw it in action, he wanted to learn it, and not even for power, as he too believed physical capabilities to be more important for that, but for fun, for entertainment, he wanted to be able to create his own tiny cloud shows, summon his own tiny lightning clouds.

 

If nothing happened, they would arrive to the quiet end of Ruby's home street, neither of Ruby's neighbors were outside this time, the weird pegasus opposite to her house may or may have not been home, it was hard to tell due to the lack of obvious signs of life, and the hybrid next door was inside her house based on slight movement seen on one of the windows, as she, presumably, quickly checked to see who was walking in front of her house.

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

The kobolds didn't respond to Harpoon's remark, but Trox gave her a look of 'I meant what I said', because well, what he said was true, truthfully speaking, if Onache didn't make it, they wouldn't grief her much more than the candy shop keeper they had met before would, they were friendly yes, but friendly wasn't the same as being a friend. It may be that Harpoon was overthinking it, or that she wasn't thinking enough, but she made the mistake of comparing the siblings to ponies, as social relationships worked differently for kobolds. 

Because while Onache wasn't a friend, she was still part of their group, and as their opinion on Sheez probably made clear, loyalty was kinda a big deal to them, and that meant that you took care of those who were part of your group, be it a friend, a stranger, someone with mutual goals, or even someone you despised, if you took someone's trust, you better make sure you were worth it. And then there was their personal obligations, the more obvious one being Sheska, as she was a healer, a medic, it was quite literally her job to worry about others, and Trox, well, you didn't become a rebel in a world like theirs if you didn't want to help others, as Solar had said, everyone had a choice to make there. and the siblings had chosen to forfeit their own comfort for sake of upholding their morals.

As Harpoon and Stargazer had their interaction, the reptiles got ready to leave, which basically just meant that Chega went to grab her instrument and put it on her back, since Sear had everything with her all the time, and the siblings didn't have anything to gather. They all acknowledged Stargazer's promise, but none of them had anything to say to it. Sheska and Trox were secretly little glad though, hearing about the resource trouble, because while it was unfortunate that innocent suffered from lack of guards, it was also nice to know that there wasn't eyes of the guards behind every corner, the opposite extreme wasn't the ideal of course, they knew that guard was needed, but it was nice change of pace coming from the other extreme.

Nothing obvious happened when they made their way out, but something may have been going on, as suddenly, without obvious explanation, Chega's instrument rang a bit, not much, it wasn't like anything touched it, but rather the strings vibrated slightly, letting out a faintest of sounds, something most individuals likely wouldn't even notice, in fact, Chega paid no attention to it, nor did Sear, but the siblings tensed up immediately, and started looking around in subtle way, as if trying to hide the fact they noticed anything. 

If Harpoon caught on this, and tried to see what they were looking for, there would be nothing obvious to see or hear, but the two kobolds were clearly focused on something slightly above the group.