open Casual stroll

flutterJackdash · October 19, 2022

On 2022-10-16 at 6:47 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"You looked barely able to stand up. Logic dictates, that you were not fit for getting yourself to the hospital, at any reasonable pace, and that you'd be free prey, for any predators."

She'd look to the side, where an apparent balloon, formed like a hawk, were carrying a very confused mouse around, a half meter from the ground, by its string. The balloon animal were moving about like you'd expect a hawk to do, but were very much not a regular entity. Nor did it seem like a real threat to the mouse, as the balloon did not have a mouth, and it appeared the rodent had just tangled its tail into the string.

"Or the recipient, of one of the new daconequui's pranks."

"So there is ah, actually a draconequus in the forest?"

"Yes. Calls herself Anomaly, and likes playing games with unwary folks. The amount of things I had to pull others out of the last few days, tests my patience at times.

Regardless, to get back to the point, Delilah, you didn't appear to be in a state, where just escorting you would do much good. So I'm expediting it, by carrying you. They'll decide if you suffer from something, or if perhaps you've been the subject of some kind of prank. I would not put it past a draconequui, to drag someone from nowhere, to mess with them. Like she did with that shark."

"Ah yes, her. She's ah... Been raising some eyebrows... Seems harmless enough though."

"My state? I was dizzy, so I lay down," she explained, "I'm not sure what more of my state you saw than I felt, but either way... I am grateful for your aid, just not for disregarding boundaries."

"Another draconequus? How unusual!" Delilah says, "I wonder if Discord would be interested to know that he really isn't the only one?"

On 2022-10-16 at 6:47 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Huh. I were under the impression, that ponies did not partake in this sort of thing. Not in Equestria in any case."

"It is ah, not... How shall I put this... A regular occurrence. I can't say any of the locals partake in that ah, particular lifestyle. But it isn't my place to judge. If things are well, then that is ah, what is important, yes?"

"A fair assessment."

They had reached the edge of the forest, as they got to that part of the conversation. Wouldn't be that far now, until they were at the hospital.

"If I may, actually? You seem very ah, different from most dragons I have encountered before, Nerzhei. I can't say to have met any that used magic before, for one."

"Nor one who didn't sound like they'd rather eat a book, than learn how to read it?"

"I ah, distinctly did not say that."

"I am not an idiot, and you don't see many like that, because beyond basic education, dragons don't normally care much for that, at an early age. You live to be several thousand, and aren't part of societies like what equines have, and it isn't seen as important to get drilled in, like it is with ponies. And as for the magic, there are several dragons that are magically inclined, but few actually make something of it. That little one, up at the castle... Spike, I think it was? He's a fire aligned one, that have the potential. I'm intending to try and educate him, when things are calmer, since I abhor wasted potential, and he seem like he might actually listen. A stark contrast, from the fools I usually have to deal with."

"Uh... your impression is correct," Delilah says, a little uncomfortable, "It isn't common practice, but neither is there any law forbidding it. And it isn't an Equestrian tradition, but a Mythralian one, which is what my husband and two of my wives are. I still am not used to seeing them eat meat, though. But... we do love each other, and care for each other, so right now even while I worry for my foals I know they are in fine hooves and won't lack for love."

"He does seem to have a good handle on that teleport magic of his," Delilah remarks, shifting her weight slightly on the dragon's shoulder, "Um... No one called you an idiot, nor even implied such a thing, so I'm entirely sure from where you are taking offense. Is curiosity such a nuisance to you?"

After another moment has passed from the time she finished her last sentence she suddenly begins to gag and retch.

"Oh.. oh no," she gets out before, "P-Put me down! Quickly! Please!"

Sphinx-Ara · October 19, 2022

@Blitz Boom @flutterJackdash

Skittles would nod "O-oh, I think I heard of this now, it's called a...a herd right?" she'd ask Deliah, then nods as she listens to the others and whincing atthe bickering between Honey and the Dragonness "O-oh dear, please don't fight you two" she then looks to the dragoonness "I liketo read, I don't understand why some ponies think that books are for eating" she shakes her head andt then gasps "oh no, miss Delilah, are you okay?"

Evil Pink One · October 20, 2022

" yourself I see... Then truly... Someone smart must've shown you how to chain yourself." Light ponders.

" No one voluntarily chains oneself, unless someone shows them a reason too. For example... I chained myself to her now." He lovingly stares at Shark.

" I guess tomorrow we're going to the big shiny reef. " He adds.

EQ_Theta · October 21, 2022

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-10-19 at 5:44 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I do not know, if Master Discord could change me. I did not think about asking him, the last time he called me. Maybe I will try the next time.

And how can I lose hope? I do not think I have any. I am just trying to understand things. If I do not, then that just means I keep looking, and asking. That seems simple to me.

Questions have answers, but some takes time. A strange one told me that once, and I have a lot of time, I think. I do not know how time works that well."

“That sounds like you are determined to understand. It may not look like it, but you don’t let setbacks stop you. From what I understand, that’s about as good as not losing hope as I could see, and it’s admirable that you can think of that so casually. Maybe things won’t make sense now, but the more you put the pieces together, the more they’ll begin to create a clearer picture.”

If it is one thing that Peaks can say at this moment, it’s that Omen’s simple way of seeing things is pretty refreshing. There are days when she’d find herself stumped and out of motivation upon encountering a roadblock on her way to achieving her goals. Somehow, she could see the benefits of not being hampered by emotions, only seeing things logically. Then again, she’d be a lot colder if her logic isn’t tempered with emotion. Perhaps the secret is finding balance in both.

Despite how things were looking to Omen, maybe there is hope in her finding her answers to the question of emotions. Whatever the circumstances surrounding that may be, her determination could get her to the answers she hoped. She’s already got a head start with her attitude toward trying to understand them.

On 2022-10-19 at 5:44 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I can not do baking then. I eat anything, and strange tastes are interesting to try. I think I like fire most? I can taste it more, than other things. It is very warm.

It must be difficult to know how to make it work, for normal ponies, yes? I see ponies eating many, many different things, so they must not taste things the same. It can not be easy, to find something that they can all like, is it?"

“You’re right about that. So many tastes, and even if there is some overlap, I won’t be able to get all of them. But, bread is simple, and the best I could do is to make bread that many ponies will enjoy. Take those crescent-shaped croissants, for example. It’s all just regular bread, but bits of it flake off, and the bread itself tastes buttery. It doesn’t look much, but it is something ponies enjoy. Not everything has to be complicated to be special; its simple taste is enough. For you, I could try some special recipes, but I suppose that will mean doing some research on spicy bread. Wonder if I could do something with chillies… This might be a little special project for me; call it a challenge to impress your tastebuds!”

As for Munchkin, Shrimp sort of replying to her chattering was an interesting development. Mewing usually works for ponies, and that would get their attention most of the time. With the refraction, it appears that using a different vocalization method might be something, though it was odd that a sound normally used for birds would be the thing that caused a different reaction. Maybe this reptilian-looking creature is something more than its appearance suggests?

For now, the cat continued chattering to see if it could get Shrimp to poke out his head more often, then switch to its usual calm mewing to let him and Hammond know that she isn’t being hostile. Trying to rile up some reactions may have been an interesting experiment, but knowing that these creatures are friends with the odd visitors from the day before, maybe the refraction could also be a friend.

On 2022-10-19 at 5:44 PM, Blitz Boom said:

As for Ghilan, he seems receptive, but he will face an uphill battle, if he heeds my words. I hope that he will have the stamina, and conviction, to not cave completely, at the first few hurdles. I can imagine that he will rely on us to back him up, to give him strength at some of them, but we must still thread carefully. It will be a delicate matter, to change perspective so ingrained in the other elders. Even a small amount.

Yet we can think of that at a later date. You know my plans for the day, as I yours. I would think that unless she have other plans, we ask Omen if she might be the binding link between us, in case we need to converse.

I would suggest she would stay with you for now though. The intelligence meeting, will not be open to outsiders. Especially not one connected to an unreliable source, such as Discord."

“Ghilan may not look like it, but he can be tough when he needs to be. After all, he was training to be a forest hunter, something we both share even though I turned out to be a wreck before I could get back on my feet. Don’t worry though, we’ll be around him more frequently, so we could help him out when he needs us.”

“I suppose we’ll need to plan around how we’ll be communicating with each other moving forward. Might needs some paper for that one if we’ll be sending messages in case Omen can’t get a message directly to you. Hmm… now that I think of it, she could just open a gate directly to wherever you’ll be, so that might not be an issue. You think we should talk to her about setting boundaries?”

“Could be worth a try to see how that’ll work. We don’t want to cause unnecessary scares with Omen suddenly showing up in the middle of the night to let you know how things are going.”

Catpone Cerberus · October 22, 2022

@Blitz Boom

"I'm not fan of weapon use either, so using magic to enchant physical capabilities isn't any better or worse than using pure magic." Ruby stated as she opened the door, letting the others in before going in herself "But as I have stated before, I draw a distinction between use and reliance, and while I do understand the necessity for those like yourself, it doesn't make you any less weak, are you powerful? yes, but strong? don't be ridiculous." she didn't say it in insulting way, rather, it was a matter-of-fact type of statement "But you shouldn't care what I or others think, mental strength is as important as physical one, and sacrificing your own believes only to please others is a sign of weakness that no amount of muscle will replace, I may disagree with you in some things, even argue with you about them, but I believe in freedom, and freedom includes the freedom to make choices I don't like, ultimately we won't know what is the right choice until we make the decision, and it's up to fate to tell us if we made the right one or not." as she spoke, she walked towards the drying room, went into said room, gathered everything that was in there, and then headed for the basement "But there is one decision I've made I know was the right one." she stopped at the door and looked at Leviathan "You" she then stepped in, closed the door and locked it behind her, leaving Leviathan and Charir in the living floor without giving them a chance to follow her or ask any further questions.

It wasn't easy to understand what Ruby actually meant with 'you', sure it was clearly targeted at Leviathan, but it was said in the same cold way that Ruby always spoke in, so one could only guess what decision it was talking about, or in what context was it good? Business, personal, Charir, some other goal she hadn't mentioned yet?

Charir meanwhile, was happy to have a new cloudy playmate back, he knew it wasn't a real creature, and that Leviathan was the one behind it, but he didn't care, it was nice to have someone to jump around with, besides, he was so starved for fun that Leviathan could probably make him happy by just dangling a cat's toy in front of him.

Ruby would be away for twenty or so minutes, after which she would come out of the basement with a bag of presumably reading material.

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

The siblings didn't care about the attention they were getting, they were too focused on the matter at hand, and frankly, it wasn't like they could do anything about it.

Trox dropped the drone in the bag "I have no idea if it's dangerous, these have been purposely made so that they are useless to the enemy in case of capture, so I have never fiddled with them, and it is possible there's traps for anyone who tries to do something with them, so while we don't like him, it would probably be good to at least show this to Solar before anyone else starts playing with it, just in case, he is objectively the most qualified one at the moment when it comes to dealing with weapons from our world." just because they didn't trust him, didn't mean they couldn't acknowledge the facts, sure Trox too knew quite a lot, but only those in the military knew about the most high-tech stuff, Trox was some generations behind when it came to weapons, and with things like this it was even more complicated, because these were custom made for the controller, and thus were always unique when compared to...well, anything.

"I think we are past 'Searching for' at this point, but sure, it's not like we know what you wanted to ask anyway." Sheska remarked, she wasn't being the friendliest possible, but then again, they still didn't like guards, even ones helping them. If nothing else was said and nothing happened, the two would spend rest of the way talking to each other in their own language, while also staying more alert, scanning the skies now and then for more drones.

If nothing continued to happen, they'd arrive to the Tavern and Chega would go to pay for extra room, there wasn't many free, but she managed to get a room for Sheska and Trox, though she suggested they'd go to her and Sear's room for the discussion since it was bigger and thus it was easier for 3 kobolds, a dragon and a pony to fit there. The siblings agreed. The room was nothing too special, there was 2 beds, a table with chairs, and bit of storage space; only one of the beds had seemingly been used.

Blitz Boom · October 23, 2022

@flutterJackdash @AuroraGlimmer

On 2022-10-19 at 4:02 PM, Delilah Dusk said:

"My state? I was dizzy, so I lay down," she explained, "I'm not sure what more of my state you saw than I felt, but either way... I am grateful for your aid, just not for disregarding boundaries."

"Another draconequus? How unusual!" Delilah says, "I wonder if Discord would be interested to know that he really isn't the only one?"

"When you're dazed, and barely look able to stand, nor are willing to open your heads, due to a headache, it leaves you vulnerable. In other words, you'd be prey. I did not consider it worthwhile to risk that."

"And I'd ah, assume that Discord would be aware, considering how many are known of. Then again, I ah, do recall him spending a long time in stone. Perhaps he's not been as ah, informed, as one could hope?

This one is ah, new to me, but there's a few well known ones, that I have heard of at least. Gluttony is supposedly somewhere in the far south of Equestria, and Fright is ah, somewhere. I am not sure where. Rumor has it that her ah, portals to her temple, have shown up in multiple places. I don't know a lot about Gluttony, but ah, Fright is supposedly running a ah, meditation center."

"I heard of one called Avarice, that were around the Dragon Isles, a few centuries ago. Don't know where that one went."

Draconequui were not exactly an extinct race. More like... Spread all over the world, with a fair bit in some kind of self imposed slumber, imprisoned, or mingling in some fashion, with the mortal races. Or lived in isolation, enjoying the pure chaos they could have in their own little pocket of the world, without any pesky ponies or such, trying to fight them. It were generally speaking, considered wise to just leave those who isolated, to their own thing.

On 2022-10-19 at 4:02 PM, Delilah Dusk said:

"Uh... your impression is correct," Delilah says, a little uncomfortable, "It isn't common practice, but neither is there any law forbidding it. And it isn't an Equestrian tradition, but a Mythralian one, which is what my husband and two of my wives are. I still am not used to seeing them eat meat, though. But... we do love each other, and care for each other, so right now even while I worry for my foals I know they are in fine hooves and won't lack for love."

"He does seem to have a good handle on that teleport magic of his," Delilah remarks, shifting her weight slightly on the dragon's shoulder, "Um... No one called you an idiot, nor even implied such a thing, so I'm entirely sure from where you are taking offense. Is curiosity such a nuisance to you?"

"I am not certain what a Mythralian is, nor did I know there were meat eating ponies. Interesting. Something to read up on some day. And I am not judging you for your ways. If it works for you, and isn't hurting anyone, then why should I care? I just find it peculiar, is all, as I had not heard of that before.

Also, I am not saying any of you called me an idiot. I am saying the general dragon are idiots. I'm a scholar, and thus, have faced the consistent, near-sighted barrage of th-"

On 2022-10-19 at 4:02 PM, Delilah Dusk said:

"Oh.. oh no," she gets out before, "P-Put me down! Quickly! Please!"

Nerzhei were interrupted in her rant, as Delilah, seemed to need to get down, and quickly. She assumed some sort of vomiting episode were approaching, and thus quickly did put the mare down on the ground. She didn't throw her though. She wasn't a savage. The mare would get down there safely.

Honey would come rushing over, concerned at what were happening, just as Skittles were.

On 2022-10-20 at 12:59 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

"oh no, miss Delilah, are you okay?"

"D-Dearest me. Is everything okay?"

On 2022-10-20 at 12:59 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

"I liketo read, I don't understand why some ponies think that books are for eating"

As Delilah had her... Episode, Nerzhei would answer something that she had meant to answer, before the interruption had come.

"You'd be surprised, how little history is valued, among dragons."

Tradition were valued, but history itself? Not so much. Especially not when said history were ancient, and controversial, such as what she had been researching.

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

@Kujamih

On 2022-10-20 at 11:31 AM, Kujamih said:

" yourself I see... Then truly... Someone smart must've shown you how to chain yourself." Light ponders.

"Somepony smart indeed."

It had been a smart one really. A detective, that had managed to single out Alonsus, among the rest of those he had been mingling with, and had him taken in for some talks. Not at the official police station, but in random other locations. Really played up, that the two of them were friends, over a long period of time, whilst bluntly telling the large earth pony, what his options were, in regards to his investigation.

They had needed an insider. A snitch, that the gang would trust, and Alonsus had gotten doubts, over the years, but not seen a way out. The detective had noticed that, and thus, Alonsus had been his primary target.

Turning on them, gave him a chance, that he'd otherwise not have, but he were still not liked by the locals, and he were still restricted, as he were on a long parole. Perhaps someday, he'd be given a chance to go back again, but for the time being, staying far away, were the best way, for him to live his life, and that of the others, that he left behind. The locals were fair after all. They wouldn't go after them, because of him. The few who might, were rotting in jail, and probably none the wiser regardless.

On 2022-10-20 at 11:31 AM, Kujamih said:

" No one voluntarily chains oneself, unless someone shows them a reason too. For example... I chained myself to her now." He lovingly stares at Shark.

" I guess tomorrow we're going to the big shiny reef. " He adds.

"And you have made a wise choice, in doing so. It is rather clear you have affection to one another. Alonsus sees it clearly, and others do too, I am certain. May your days be merry and plentiful, as they say.

Ah, but if you wish to retreat for the night, let not Alonasus stop you. Go, enjoy your night, and eventually, we may come to meet once more. If you seek me, you will likely find that the great Alonsus, works tirelessly most days, in the employ, of Straw Hat, over at Sloppy Joe's."

"Sleep time? Okay. B-yyyye. Bye. Bye bye, big friend!"

Shark would wave enthusiastically, though if this were actually goodbye, were up to Light. Though they did have classes tomorrow, so might be an idea to get some sleep.

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-10-21 at 1:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“That sounds like you are determined to understand. It may not look like it, but you don’t let setbacks stop you. From what I understand, that’s about as good as not losing hope as I could see, and it’s admirable that you can think of that so casually. Maybe things won’t make sense now, but the more you put the pieces together, the more they’ll begin to create a clearer picture.”

"Many things have not made sense to me before, then something does later. I do not mind waiting. Maybe someday, when I understand everything right, I can be like real ponies.

If there are still ponies then. I saw many creatures, long ago. Some I do not anymore. Even the ones, that Master Discord, did not change. Except for the squirrels. The ones he made, are still around. Brothers master made him look like one."

They were not exactly the same, as they had lost their od powers, but they looked the same. Discord would likely be pleased with that, as it were a little sliver of chaos, that he left in the world, that - in his eyes - all would have had the chance to enjoy, in his absence.

On 2022-10-21 at 1:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“You’re right about that. So many tastes, and even if there is some overlap, I won’t be able to get all of them. But, bread is simple, and the best I could do is to make bread that many ponies will enjoy. Take those crescent-shaped croissants, for example. It’s all just regular bread, but bits of it flake off, and the bread itself tastes buttery. It doesn’t look much, but it is something ponies enjoy. Not everything has to be complicated to be special; its simple taste is enough. For you, I could try some special recipes, but I suppose that will mean doing some research on spicy bread. Wonder if I could do something with chillies… This might be a little special project for me; call it a challenge to impress your tastebuds!”

Omen listened, but briefly, had an idea. One which would have her seem like she were having a gagging reflex for a few seconds. Then her mouth would open, and out would come a small bottle, which her tongue were wrapped around.

She'd rise her hoof slowly, and set it on that, and as the tongue unwrapped, it would show this to be the bottle she had gotten at the carnival, carrying the usual signs, that were associated with dragon chili sauce. Namely, the naming label, and just so, so many warning signs, basically boiling down to *Not safe for anyone*, in a few languages.

"We were somewhere, in a forest, yesterday. Someone there sold these. It tastes like fire."

She'd pop the cork off, as the unmistakable smell of dragon chili came wafting out. Which basically smelled so hot, that it could made your nose hairs curl from a distance. She'd then dip her tongue in the bottle, getting a few drops, and would slide it into her mouth. After a second or so, smoke would bellow out of her nostrils, and a small ember escaped the side of her mouth. It didn't last for much longer than that, but it should show the authenticity of the product. Which weren't her intention. She just wanted to taste this, and would put the cork on again afterwards.

"It says chili on the bottle, yes? The vendor said it did. It taste like the other bottle I drank. Very varm."

On 2022-10-21 at 1:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

As for Munchkin, Shrimp sort of replying to her chattering was an interesting development. Mewing usually works for ponies, and that would get their attention most of the time. With the refraction, it appears that using a different vocalization method might be something, though it was odd that a sound normally used for birds would be the thing that caused a different reaction. Maybe this reptilian-looking creature is something more than its appearance suggests?

For now, the cat continued chattering to see if it could get Shrimp to poke out his head more often, then switch to its usual calm mewing to let him and Hammond know that she isn’t being hostile. Trying to rile up some reactions may have been an interesting experiment, but knowing that these creatures are friends with the odd visitors from the day before, maybe the refraction could also be a friend.

Shrimp seemed to slowy get a little bit braver, and would bit by bit, inch closer to the cat. Eventually - with his heart racing in his scaly chest - he'd cautiously get close enough, to poke the cat with the very tip of his tail, and then would instantly fall back, expecting retaliation. If that did not happen, he'd try a few more times, but now not rushing away again as fast, and if things went well, would eventually try and poke the cat's paw, with one of the claws, on his small arms. Maybe this large, furry thing, wasn't so bad as he had thought... Or it were all a trick, and it would munch on him soon. He would see.

On 2022-10-21 at 1:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Ghilan may not look like it, but he can be tough when he needs to be. After all, he was training to be a forest hunter, something we both share even though I turned out to be a wreck before I could get back on my feet. Don’t worry though, we’ll be around him more frequently, so we could help him out when he needs us.”

“I suppose we’ll need to plan around how we’ll be communicating with each other moving forward. Might needs some paper for that one if we’ll be sending messages in case Omen can’t get a message directly to you. Hmm… now that I think of it, she could just open a gate directly to wherever you’ll be, so that might not be an issue. You think we should talk to her about setting boundaries?”

“Could be worth a try to see how that’ll work. We don’t want to cause unnecessary scares with Omen suddenly showing up in the middle of the night to let you know how things are going.”

"I think that we can set some boundaries with Omen, and likely should, as it would help her integrate into polite society better. Small steps though. I would advise that we might begin, by letting her know that if she transports herself, and find her target in one of a few situation, that she should retreat, or at least ask if they were busy. I'd think the simplest ones would be if they were using a toilet, were sleeping, or appeared to be in a meeting. We can branch out in time, but I'd be concerned that we might be too hasty, and would have her misunderstand something, were we to try too many things at once.

In regards to messages, if Omen isn't available, I can introduce you to a few couriers, and aliases of mine, that you can use, in case you need to leave me a message. I cannot say for sure when I would receive it, but it should be something that would lead to me getting the notice you want, as intended. In turn, I'd ask for how to contact you, in case I were unavailable to connect directly to you.

And Ghilan seems like a fine longma, but I am one who believe in facts, rather than bolstering. The more he proves his meddle, the more trust I will have, in regards to his abilities. If you think of him as highly as it seems, I cannot imagine it would then take long for him, to show me something reassuring."

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

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I'm not fan of weapon use either, so using magic to enchant physical capabilities isn't any better or worse than using pure magic." Ruby stated as she opened the door, letting the others in before going in herself "But as I have stated before, I draw a distinction between use and reliance, and while I do understand the necessity for those like yourself, it doesn't make you any less weak, are you powerful? yes, but strong? don't be ridiculous."

Leviathan merely shrugged her shoulders at this notion.

"Eh. I'm strong enough to survive, so I figure I'm doing alright."

In fairness, she wasn't the strongest out there. She were a powerful magic user, but there were better, and physically, there were definitely stronger. But she didn't want to be the strongest, or the top of the food chain. Leadership and responsibility? Didn't set well with her, and neither were conquest, or fighting for the sake of fighting. She taught herself magic to survive, and now, wanted to get stronger, because she thought it was fun, and to test her limits. So fair enough, that in Ruby's eyes, she weren't considered strong. To each their own, yeah? Didn't mean they couldn't get along.

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"But there is one decision I've made I know was the right one." she stopped at the door and looked at Leviathan "You" she then stepped in, closed the door and locked it behind her, leaving Leviathan and Charir in the living floor without giving them a chance to follow her or ask any further questions.

Leviathan were a little stunned, when Ruby said that last part. She had just... Not expected it, in any sort of way, and yet there it were. Something that really... It was kinda sweet, actually. Made her feel a little warm in the cheeks, as this were probably the nicest thing, that another dragon had said to her, in several years. And she weren't sure if the last time counted, considering how absolutely smashed the two of them were. Dear ancestors, the headache the day after...

But she did not have a chance to respond, before Ruby had wandered off, and left the two of them alone. No fun in that honestly. She should've allowed her, to make a response about this. But since she left though... Might as well see if they couldn't make a visual lesson with Charir.

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Charir meanwhile, was happy to have a new cloudy playmate back, he knew it wasn't a real creature, and that Leviathan was the one behind it, but he didn't care, it was nice to have someone to jump around with, besides, he was so starved for fun that Leviathan could probably make him happy by just dangling a cat's toy in front of him.

Ruby would be away for twenty or so minutes, after which she would come out of the basement with a bag of presumably reading material.

She'd come back, to find a whole circus of small, elemental looking dragons. Leviathan were using them to visually, show Charir the affinity, and weaknesses, of the elemental variations. Water beat fire, fire beat air, air beat earth, and earth beat water. There were some variations as to why that were a thing, that she'd show - as how air would fly out of earth's range, and water would douse fire - but it were fairly simplistic, and all shown without words, since he didn't understand her anyway.

Then she'd also have shown him, what elements tended to get along. With for instance, water and air being chummy, and earth and fire being friendly. Then water and fire, as well as air and earth, really not getting along, with hissing, and fire etc. being spewed towards them.

She'd be in the middle of - between the dozen or so, small elemental dragons she were using for her little presentation - how a water and air dragon got together (a cloud, and a rain dragon, in this case), made a small egg, that would hatch into a dragon, that looked like a wet cloud, in the shape of her. To give him some idea, what it were that she were.

"Oh hey. I figured out a way to try and teach him some basics of dragon elemental magic, and affinity. I dunno if it's working, but it's pretty fun."

She'd flick her hand, and a thundercloud dragon would show, looking like Charir as a miniature, then a bigger one, with some pinker nuances, by making use of some water and specs of dirt, to look like Ruby. She'd have them gather up with the one looking like her, and stand around, bopping up and down in the air. She wished she could do a proper fire one, but she had to settle for some alternatives, until she'd one day hopefully, be able to master that sorta thing proper. Cause right now, she could technically do a small... Oh yeah, she could try here!

She'd concentrate, and try to gather up some light in front of her. And it did show. For the briefest of moments, a radiant, warm dragon of sunlight, would stand proud, looking vaguely like Ruby... But it would dissipate quickly.

"Bugger Someday, this is gonna work. Ain't proper weather control, until I get sun down too, and you would've looked so cool. It's just a right pain in the tail, to keep stable. It's fleeting as all heck."

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

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Trox dropped the drone in the bag "I have no idea if it's dangerous, these have been purposely made so that they are useless to the enemy in case of capture, so I have never fiddled with them, and it is possible there's traps for anyone who tries to do something with them, so while we don't like him, it would probably be good to at least show this to Solar before anyone else starts playing with it, just in case, he is objectively the most qualified one at the moment when it comes to dealing with weapons from our world."

"Duly noted. I'll make sure to let the Solar Guards know, that this is specifically for his eyes, as he'd be able to get the most from it. Or in case we run into him again. For now, I'll keep this with me."

Harpoon would seal the bag, and put it on her back for now. She didn't have her saddlebag with her right now, and frankly, that were annoying her a bit, as this should have been in there. *sigh* She just had to make due with what she had, yeah? At least until she could get to the improvised guard station, that her saddlebag were in currently.

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I think we are past 'Searching for' at this point, but sure, it's not like we know what you wanted to ask anyway."

Harpoon did not take it personal, that they didn't seem to like her all that much. The background, as she had been told it, did not allow them to feel too chummy around guards, and that were fine. Long as they weren't outright attacking her, she'd just gloss over it.

"I just think, that some things are best discussed, when you're not around too many prying eyes and ears. I have to think of the civilians reaction too. Especially with the tensions high, due to the assassin."

She'd say the last words especially low, as to makes ure it weren't heard. It were just not okay with her, to try to spread panic. It were not looking like a lot right now, but she noted the small hints around others. The heightened awareness, how they clustered, some facial traits, etc. The mood in town, were somewhat on edge. It did not have to spark into a full on panic, as that would just cause more issues.

On 2022-10-22 at 10:20 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

If nothing continued to happen, they'd arrive to the Tavern and Chega would go to pay for extra room, there wasn't many free, but she managed to get a room for Sheska and Trox, though she suggested they'd go to her and Sear's room for the discussion since it was bigger and thus it was easier for 3 kobolds, a dragon and a pony to fit there. The siblings agreed. The room was nothing too special, there was 2 beds, a table with chairs, and bit of storage space; only one of the beds had seemingly been used.

Just before they reached the inn, something would in fact happen. Harpoon would halt them, and draw her trident, then stab it right over the door to the inn. From there, fell a couple of knives. It looked like they were just placed there haphazardly, but the angle, the way they were placed to be easily moved with, and had been hidden in the shades... These had meant to fall down on somepony. Specifically she'd thin, on the kobolds, as they'd go here. They were easy to make fall, blade down, and seemed to have some kind of faintly blue liquid, dripped on the blade. Poison, she'd imagine. Likely meant to be hit with a pebble or something from afar, to trigger them falling down, and causing some sort of damage on those two.

She'd look around, trying to spot something on one of the roofs, but no. There'd be nothing there. Pointless to give chase now, as the villain were likely hiding well out of her reach at this point. By the ocean, did she hate professionals... For now, she'd just have to take the knives, then ask for a small box or something, in the in, that she could use for a container, after putting them in yet another evidence bag. Sharp blades, did not stay easily in these.

She'd enter with the others, and follow Chega, as she went to speak with the tavernkeeper. Though she'd refuse a place to rest herself there, as well as drawing out a small pouch of bits from her armor. Always wise, to have some emergency bits on you, just in case, and she refused to let these cover the price of her presence. She were perfectly able, to pay her own share.

One they'd be situated in the room, Harpoon would check the windows, and close them, once she felt certain they were not mined, in some manner. Then she'd return, and face them. It appeared to be time to talk.

"So, the question I wished to ask, before... Circumstances happened. I wish to know, what you think will happen, now that she knows you are here. And furthermore, will my presence, in that, cause potential issues? If she hates ponies, and guards in particular, might there be complications, now that she have seen me escort you around?"

Evil Pink One · October 23, 2022

@Blitz Boom

They'd say their goodbyes and leave.

Light would try to escort Shark to her room... Or pond....

He recalls it's near his room so he went to that direction.

Of course Light can't fully escort her underwater. He'd either swim or float above it, dive a bit?

He'd invite shark if she wants to experience a bed. He would of course sleep on the floor for her.

Edited October 23, 2022 by Kujamih

flutterJackdash · October 24, 2022

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"When you're dazed, and barely look able to stand, nor are willing to open your heads, due to a headache, it leaves you vulnerable. In other words, you'd be prey. I did not consider it worthwhile to risk that."

"And I'd ah, assume that Discord would be aware, considering how many are known of. Then again, I ah, do recall him spending a long time in stone. Perhaps he's not been as ah, informed, as one could hope?

This one is ah, new to me, but there's a few well known ones, that I have heard of at least. Gluttony is supposedly somewhere in the far south of Equestria, and Fright is ah, somewhere. I am not sure where. Rumor has it that her ah, portals to her temple, have shown up in multiple places. I don't know a lot about Gluttony, but ah, Fright is supposedly running a ah, meditation center."

"I heard of one called Avarice, that were around the Dragon Isles, a few centuries ago. Don't know where that one went."

Draconequui were not exactly an extinct race. More like... Spread all over the world, with a fair bit in some kind of self imposed slumber, imprisoned, or mingling in some fashion, with the mortal races. Or lived in isolation, enjoying the pure chaos they could have in their own little pocket of the world, without any pesky ponies or such, trying to fight them. It were generally speaking, considered wise to just leave those who isolated, to their own thing.

@Blitz Boom

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"D-Dearest me. Is everything okay?"

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Nerzhei were interrupted in her rant, as Delilah, seemed to need to get down, and quickly. She assumed some sort of vomiting episode were approaching, and thus quickly did put the mare down on the ground. She didn't throw her though. She wasn't a savage. The mare would get down there safely.

Honey would come rushing over, concerned at what were happening, just as Skittles were.

As soon as her hooves touch ground she canters to a nearby shrub and releases the contents of her stomach into it, followed by a few dry retches and a good deal of spitting after that.

"Ugh..." Delilah says breathlessly as she spits one last time, then drags a foreleg across her muzzle, "Okay... okay... I think that's... that's done now... I'm sorry about that."

She takes this moment, after opening her eyes, to have a look around before sighing and trotting back over to Nerzhei, Honey, and Skittles.

"Right, I'm not trying to be insulting... I'm trying to set boundaries, and despite my frustrations you are without the slightest hint of remorse. I know you have no way of knowing from looking on the outside, but I'm not at my best when being carried away by unknown entities. Don't know that anyone would be, there is a degree of sensitivity that should go into dealing with this sort of situation, not simply a visual assessment and physical reaction with no introduction or explanation. I wasn't weak, just dizzy, and I lay down of my own volition because of that. You never even asked if I could try to open my eyes, just saw that they were squeezed shut and made an assumption. In fact, it is your friend here that made the introductions since you hadn't bothered with a proper hello much less a greeting for me."

Delilah exhales after this sudden rant, sighing again, "Okay... I'm sorry. I really am grateful for your help though. Though I have no idea what you mean when you say I was unwilling to open my heads."

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"oh no, miss Delilah, are you okay?"

@AuroraGlimmer

"I'm okay, I think?" she says, "I still have a headache, but I didn't feel quite so bad when I trotted back over here to you."

She stands and stretches out her legs, while her wings remain at her sides, "I don't feel like I'll win any marathons in the near future, but I think I might be able to at least trot on my own from here."

EQ_Theta · October 24, 2022

@Blitz Boom

17 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"We were somewhere, in a forest, yesterday. Someone there sold these. It tastes like fire."

She'd pop the cork off, as the unmistakable smell of dragon chili came wafting out. Which basically smelled so hot, that it could made your nose hairs curl from a distance. She'd then dip her tongue in the bottle, getting a few drops, and would slide it into her mouth. After a second or so, smoke would bellow out of her nostrils, and a small ember escaped the side of her mouth. It didn't last for much longer than that, but it should show the authenticity of the product. Which weren't her intention. She just wanted to taste this, and would put the cork on again afterwards.

"It says chili on the bottle, yes? The vendor said it did. It taste like the other bottle I drank. Very varm."

“Chili, huh? Dragon chili… I’m not familiar with this, though it looks like a very hot sauce that could…. Whoa! The smell is already getting to me. And there might be fire in your nose! Quick! Drink some water or the fire alarm will go off!”

The baker quickly ran into the back room and grabbed a cup of water to hand to Omen. By her looks and mannerisms, her calm disposition immediately turned into panic, and when she got back, she’s likely would have wanted the Ki’Nathar to down a little bit into her nostrils to put out a possible fire that could’ve started in it. Then again, that could just be Peaks freaking out over nothing, but knowing absolutely nothing about the possible side effects of dragon chili sauce would give her reason to be more than concerned. That, and it’ll ruin a lot of things in the store. The bread will become soggy, and she’d have the close the store early because nopony in their right mind will want to buy wet bread. That’ll really put a dent into the store’s finances and resources. A waste of bread and no money to make up for it, plus clean-up… Not a good way to go about the day.

By the time the whole spectacle was over, Peaks could relax for a moment, though her panting was evidently heavy, especially if nothing else happened and the worst thing to transpire was making herself look like a fool. Better that than going home without any bits to add to her coffers. If a few drops of dragon chili sauce was all it took to start a spark, one could only imagine what several drops would do. Though this might be an opportunity to expand her clientele to dragons if she could get the ingredients right. However, this wasn’t really the time for prospecting potential customers or going back to what Omen said earlier about seeing creatures that aren’t around anymore, though she’d make a note for that in case she’ll broach that topic. It may be a little more difficult to raise, seeing as the Ki’Nathar pretty much said enough to confirm that she has been around for a very long time.

“Phew! Miss Omen, if I could offer you a tip, please don’t try eating things that could start fires in the store. That said, maybe I could point you to some alternatives that are just as spicy without the side effects? I’ve heard ponies use nicknames for some chillies, and the two that stand out are the Ghost Pepper and The Reaper. Very intimidating and for a good reason. These are the kinds of chillies that can bring any pony down to their knees and make them cry for the pain to stop. Perhaps those are the kinds of chillies that interest you?”

Whatever it was that Stiff Peaks experienced earlier, Munchkin didn’t seem to notice, as her attention was squarely fixated on the refraction. Seeing his tail drop down, as if prodding her, was an enticing sight. All the more she was tempted to try and play with it. For the moment, she lifted one claw and moving it to where the tail goes, enticing her inherent hunting instincts. Seems like something is starting to get Munchkin’s attention, as she was mostly interested in the odd creature.

If Shrimp were to tuck his tail away, Munchkin would go back to chattering. It seemed this was what got the little creature to get its tail out, and if given the chance, they might start playing some more.

17 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"I think that we can set some boundaries with Omen, and likely should, as it would help her integrate into polite society better. Small steps though. I would advise that we might begin, by letting her know that if she transports herself, and find her target in one of a few situation, that she should retreat, or at least ask if they were busy. I'd think the simplest ones would be if they were using a toilet, were sleeping, or appeared to be in a meeting. We can branch out in time, but I'd be concerned that we might be too hasty, and would have her misunderstand something, were we to try too many things at once.

In regards to messages, if Omen isn't available, I can introduce you to a few couriers, and aliases of mine, that you can use, in case you need to leave me a message. I cannot say for sure when I would receive it, but it should be something that would lead to me getting the notice you want, as intended. In turn, I'd ask for how to contact you, in case I were unavailable to connect directly to you.

And Ghilan seems like a fine longma, but I am one who believe in facts, rather than bolstering. The more he proves his meddle, the more trust I will have, in regards to his abilities. If you think of him as highly as it seems, I cannot imagine it would then take long for him, to show me something reassuring."

“I couldn’t believe it myself when I first learned Ghilan became an elder. Only time will tell if his toughness will hold true when he isn’t fighting. As for Omen, we’ll take it slow and see what we can do for her, though maybe your couriers could be spending untold amounts of time traveling from Equestria to the longma’s forest if she couldn’t deliver our messages. That’s going to be a long walk, and we spent years on the road. Only reason we could go back and forth now is because of the gates.”

“Brother, I think Rosa meant it the other way around. We'll be the ones to pass on our message to a courier to get it to Rosa. It wouldn’t be efficient if the messenger had to deliver something urgent if the receiver is too far away.”

“Oh… Yeah, I guess that makes sense. That being said, we still need to figure out how to get a message homeward in case Omen can’t.“

“Hmm… You remember that cave we stayed in? I’m thinking about turning that into a second home considering no one has disturbed it for years. Even the old bedrolls and the fire pit I dug were still there after all this time. If it’ll continue to stay that way, it might be a good place to set up, and I’ll be bringing some things there make it homelier. We can leave messages there; maybe it could be a place for you to lay low in case you need it. I’ll be sure to leave a little mail box to keep the messages safe and dry. Sounds good, right?”

The cave was in the outskirts of Canterlot, closer to the newer town, though still off the beaten path. There was a trail that started from the side of the road, just about a third of the way if facing away from the entrance. One would need to start by the distance marker closest to town, take a few steps forward, then turn toward the side with a visible cliff face wall and a winding path with overgrowth. The area that marked the cave’s proximity were two trees with five visible claw marks scratched deeply into the trunks. It was only a matter of walking a short distance between the two trees to find the cave entrance.

Sphinx-Ara · October 24, 2022

@Blitz Boom @flutterJackdash

Skittles would listen and nod, "I guess it's up to interpretation" she'd say, shaking her head. before looking to everyone and nodding "Well, you may be able to walk on your own, but I don't think going into town by yourself is such a good idea, the town is quaint and smalll, but you can still get lost" she'd say to Delilah, then looking to Nerzhei "If it helps, I don't mind if you wait outside of town while Honey and I get Delilah to the doctors and somewhere to sleep" she'd suggest to her "I get the feeling you and the townsponies don't exactly..get along all that well"

Rising Dusk · October 26, 2022

@Blitz Boom

Dawn were of course impressed with her own work. Albeit, this were a lesser version for just the pouch compare to that which she had enchanted their saddle bags with. Rising had no complaints, but also no reason to inflate his sister's already gigantic ego. His twin was a master of weaving spells with tapestries second only in beauty to that of Alicorn magics. Even Dawn's most grand spell didn't hold a candle to the one weaved by Princess Celestria a thousand years ago that banished Nightmare Moon to the lunar surface. Of course, that was before factoring personal preference in beauty in the eyes of one Detective Rising Dusk. Not everything had to be grand and over the top to be pleasing to the extra senses.

"My secret Space Expansion Spell," Dawn mused to herself. "No portal, darling. I have simply expanded the space inside the pouch, without touching the outside," simple she says, Rising rolls his eyes. "As an object nears the opening, it is then beholden to the a constriction spell to fit. After which, it will expand again inside the enchanted space. Then, of course, a modest addition of shelving to place things upon," she explained. "Finally, a thin link to wish fulfillment. All too troublesome to have to feel around inside the pouch so large without falling in yourself. So, one simply thinks of what they want from inside the pouch, and their hoof, or levitation spell, will find it," Dawn finally finished. Skipping over the more complex parts and rules set into the spell that had filled the whole room a moment ago. With all that done, she dropped the pouch into Rising's waiting hoof.

"I see you have an eye for the profession of trade. A valuable commodity my special containers would be," she fluttered her eyelashes. She needn't hide behind it. When a pony was good at something, one doesn't do it for free. Rising had a different perspective on it though. Dawn's special talent was the creation of spells, the counter part to Rising's special talent to break them. Many of developing wizards and sorceress's travel to libraries in the search of spells discovered long ago. Years of study and readings to perform the works of others. Things that come easy to his twin. Only on the most surface of levels did she truly understand what she creates on a whim. The detective had watched countless times unicorns practicing spells. Watching as their tapestries fail over and over again. Crisscross in wrong ways, tie in incorrect places, form lopsided matrixes, threads too thick or too thin. If Dawn wishes out of nowhere for a spell to wash the dishes, her rainbow threads are just... always correct. Finding another pony that wasn't an Alicorn to teach something this complex would be a task in of itself, let alone how they could grasp it in short enough time for a busy mare.

Rising placed the enchanted pouch into his inside jacket pocket and the family moved on with the Prince. "Ho ho ho, to share a fine meal with the royals of a distant land. That does sound most delightful. I do find myself becoming a bit peckish thinking about it. However, I do hope there will be time to sample the festival food as well?" the profession inquired. Nothing like good ol'festival food. Carmel apples, homemade cider, all the fine pastries made in good merriment.

The royals came in view, waiting before large doors the kept the sounds of excited citizens at bay. Rising could feel a tingle run down his limbs, like standing at the edge of a cliff with the only way being, down. His ears flicked and his heart rate increased, just a little. A craving for his work desk hidden away in the offices of the O.M.I. suddenly struck him.

"We have a saying in Equestria, your Majesty. 'Nothing travels faster than gossip'," Grace spoke up and Dawn nodded her agreement. Especially in a big city like Manehattan. Grace fluttered over to Rising and begin fixing up his suit after their journey through the castle. Dawn ignited her horn and cast his mane in the rainbow aura, then brushed it and fixed it up. "You look handsome, darling. You'll be just fine," his mother assured him. "Stand strong and remember to simple. Remember, you represent Equestria today," Dawn chimed in. "Thanks..." he drolled. The mares moved away and the detective steeled himself.

"I'm ready."

Blitz Boom · October 26, 2022

@Rising Dusk

5 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"I see you have an eye for the profession of trade. A valuable commodity my special containers would be,"

"You certainly impress me, Miss Dawn. I feel confident in saying, that if you presented such marvelous creations like this, to our markets, you would soon become a darling for many a citizen too."

The prince would retain his warm, welcome smile and demeanor, as he responded to Dawn. She were a mare one should not underestimate, that much were certain, yet more than that, she might be one whom could end up being an important influence, just like her brother were. He who had saved them, and her, who would show the grandeur, and opportunities, that would come from trading with the outside. harrowmark were not a nation that abhorred others, but after all these generations, suspicion were an ingrained part of their being. They'd react more positive to an honest show of opportunity, rather than honeyed words, and flair without substance.

It remained to see, what they had, which might be of value in return, but that would be for the vendors to decide. After it were, that some ground rules had been set, between the royals on both sides, to ensure that undesirable things, did not pass between borders.

"But such talks should wait for more opportune times. Yet I hope that you wouldn't mind, if during the festivities, I might introduce you to some of our more notable vendors? I am most certain they would be thrilled to make your acquaintance."

5 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

Rising placed the enchanted pouch into his inside jacket pocket and the family moved on with the Prince. "Ho ho ho, to share a fine meal with the royals of a distant land. That does sound most delightful. I do find myself becoming a bit peckish thinking about it. However, I do hope there will be time to sample the festival food as well?" the profession inquired. Nothing like good ol'festival food. Carmel apples, homemade cider, all the fine pastries made in good merriment.

"Of course, there shall be plenty to feast upon, both in here, and out there. Resources being free now, means we are finally able, to celebrate in a proper manner, without fearing we might starve this winter. It takes from our harvest festival of course, to ensure we have enough, but it only gives us more to celebrate next year, when the fields stand bountiful and free.

Yet you needn't worry about such things currently. Much will pass, and much are yet to come. In time, we shall return here, for a nice, quiet meal, as I can imagine our dear savior, will be quite exhausted, after facing what is to come."

They wanted to accommodate Rising, and give him some space to return and rest his head, yet it were not possible for them, to deprive the citizens, of a chance to see their savior. They wanted to show their admiration, and gaze upon a figure, whom were a symbol of hope, that many had imagined they'd never have. He had to make an appearance, and when all things were then said and done, hopefully he would forgive them for that.

5 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

The royals came in view, waiting before large doors the kept the sounds of excited citizens at bay. Rising could feel a tingle run down his limbs, like standing at the edge of a cliff with the only way being, down. His ears flicked and his heart rate increased, just a little. A craving for his work desk hidden away in the offices of the O.M.I. suddenly struck him.

"We have a saying in Equestria, your Majesty. 'Nothing travels faster than gossip'," Grace spoke up and Dawn nodded her agreement. Especially in a big city like Manehattan. Grace fluttered over to Rising and begin fixing up his suit after their journey through the castle. Dawn ignited her horn and cast his mane in the rainbow aura, then brushed it and fixed it up. "You look handsome, darling. You'll be just fine," his mother assured him. "Stand strong and remember to simple. Remember, you represent Equestria today," Dawn chimed in. "Thanks..." he drolled. The mares moved away and the detective steeled himself.

"I'm ready."

"A wise saying."

Queen Magenta looked towards the door, mentally steeling herself, for what were to come. She may have reigned for decades, but this were different. This wasn't some hollow words, or regular occurrence This were the end of one era, and the start of another. This were historic.

Her husband and son, would move in behind her, on either side, preparing themselves, and when Rising said he were ready, the knights would open the door, and the mumblings of the flocks of ponies beneath, became apparent.

The town they could see, were filled, as far as the eyes could see. Hundreds, if not thousands of beings, who'd as the doors opened, and they saw their queen, would grow progressively less loud, until all were silent.

The buildings and look of the town, truly did look like something from the middle ages. Stone and mortar, barren and void of paint on most buildings, with not a sign of anything like Canterlot's houses in view. Chimney's rose, with some sitting on old roofs to get space, and a chance to get a better view of what they were to see. Mostly the really young ones, accompanied by diamond dogs, and kept on leashes, to avoid accidents like trampling below.

Clothes seen were looking old of both style, and usage, barring a few examples, and seemed more normal here, than in Equestria. Very few, did not wear any, with even the diamond dogs mostly having at the very least a vest on.

Yet all they focused on, were the queen, as she rose forth, and began her speech, surrounded by her family on either side, and then the knights, flanking both them, and Rising, who were yet to move in front of things. He would be blocked, if he tried to. The queen were to speak first, as were tradition.

It would be a few minutes, with her speaking of the hardships they had faced, and how they were to now rise up from the ashes, and once again be the nation they had been told, they could no longer be. Camaraderie and family were mentioned too, but the queen did not go into long, overly explanatory things. She were very direct, and both the voice - which were enhanced by a small set in front of her, acting like a sort of megaphone - and demeanor of her as she spoke, told of a proud, direct mare, with authority nearly oozing from her every pore, speaking not down to those that had gathered for this. But rather, spoke with them, with respect, and hope.

As her speech were done, the crowd broke into a loud cheer, yet she'd raise her hoof, and they felt silent once more.

"We have achieved much, and far more must we do, in the days to come. Yet none would be possible, were it not for a pony, from far beyond our shores. Our savior, who felled the tyrant, and put the first stone, on the road ahead.

Citizens of Harrowmark. I present to you, hailing from the far shores of Equestria: Sir Rising Dusk."

She would take a step back then, and signal for him to step forth. And now, Rising would be where she were, facing a large crowd, all focusing on him, and waiting to hear what it were, that he had to say. You could practically hear a pin drop, with how silent it were.

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-10-24 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Chili, huh? Dragon chili… I’m not familiar with this, though it looks like a very hot sauce that could…. Whoa! The smell is already getting to me. And there might be fire in your nose! Quick! Drink some water or the fire alarm will go off!”

Omen would look at the water, then lean in, and drink some of it, lapping it up like a cat. Even though the smoke had already stopped from going out of her nose, she'd go along with things, as there did not seem to be any harm to that. As it were apparent that she were also supposed to have water in her nostrils, omen would just put her entire muzzle down into the water if it were. She didn't breathe anyway, so this wouldn't cause her any issues. Not unless she tried to pull her head back, and chug it down. She were just gonna get more ear flowers if she tried that.

On 2022-10-24 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Phew! Miss Omen, if I could offer you a tip, please don’t try eating things that could start fires in the store. That said, maybe I could point you to some alternatives that are just as spicy without the side effects? I’ve heard ponies use nicknames for some chillies, and the two that stand out are the Ghost Pepper and The Reaper. Very intimidating and for a good reason. These are the kinds of chillies that can bring any pony down to their knees and make them cry for the pain to stop. Perhaps those are the kinds of chillies that interest you?”

"Do not eat dragon chili inside. Understood.

I do not know the other chilies, but maybe something to try. The last sounds familiar though. I think Mother sometimes says something about reapers. Maybe I will remember to ask her next time."

She tried to think of specific details, but none came to mind right now. Maybe it were mixed up, in other thoughts, or she hadn't found it important at the time. Might even be, that Mother asked her to just forget about it, and thus, she mostly had. She could not say, at this current point in time.

"I like fire. It tastes warm. Chili is a little like fire., sometimes. This one is more than fire. I have eaten lit candles, and burning charcoal. It were less warm than this. Maybe the chilies you know, are different? Something to try someday, yes.

If it makes ponies cry, that is a bad thing for you then, yes? ponies like things that are sweet instead? I see many bakers everywhere. And many apples. So apple pie, is the best food for ponies. Is that right?"

She were giving it a shot in the dark, that were likely not gonna land. But it were a worthwhile attempt, she'd wager. The worst that could happen, were that she'd be told that was a dumb question. She did not mind that. It would still teach her something, and she did not take offense to things.

On 2022-10-24 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Whatever it was that Stiff Peaks experienced earlier, Munchkin didn’t seem to notice, as her attention was squarely fixated on the refraction. Seeing his tail drop down, as if prodding her, was an enticing sight. All the more she was tempted to try and play with it. For the moment, she lifted one claw and moving it to where the tail goes, enticing her inherent hunting instincts. Seems like something is starting to get Munchkin’s attention, as she was mostly interested in the odd creature.

If Shrimp were to tuck his tail away, Munchkin would go back to chattering. It seemed this was what got the little creature to get its tail out, and if given the chance, they might start playing some more.

Things were going well, but the claw made Shrimp back away again, and hide behind Hammond. He might not be large, but he were larger than him, and about the size of a regular cat. He'd cover the refraction, in Shrimp's mind.

Hammond did not react on this, which Shrimp did also bite note in. He did not seem scared, nor backed away. And he were a larger one. Did this mean that this wasn't... Dangerous? He kept making signs at Munchkin, as he saw this, and eventually went back to try and connect the two, via his paws. He figured it worth a chance, to see if Shrimp would go closer, if he kept his paw down with him, to kinda shield him from things. He had tried to tell that to Munchkin, but the cat probably didn't understand him.

With this in mind, Shrimp would hesitantly go back out then, and once again, try and poke the cat with his tail. If the same response happened, he'd go back a little bit, just to make sure the paw were still there, from Hammond. Then he'd try going forward, and actually make contact. The claw did not make him feel safe, but he were at least not hitting *flight or fight* territory. Considering he could breathe fire, and the glittery blast, it were best that it did not go that far, and it appeared Munchkin did not yet, cause him to be truly scared, nor annoyed him enough.

It probably helped, that they were all on Omen's back, who still did not seem to really be affected by their antics up there.

On 2022-10-24 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Oh… Yeah, I guess that makes sense. That being said, we still need to figure out how to get a message homeward in case Omen can’t.“

“Hmm… You remember that cave we stayed in? I’m thinking about turning that into a second home considering no one has disturbed it for years. Even the old bedrolls and the fire pit I dug were still there after all this time. If it’ll continue to stay that way, it might be a good place to set up, and I’ll be bringing some things there make it homelier. We can leave messages there; maybe it could be a place for you to lay low in case you need it. I’ll be sure to leave a little mail box to keep the messages safe and dry. Sounds good, right?”

"Yes, that could be a secure location, for messages. I have some containers dug down here and there, or hidden in other manners. I could retrieve another of those, and have a lock on it, with a few keys, distributed among us. It would allow for some privacy, just in case the area would eventually, become frequented.

As for the couriers I mention, that is mostly in regards to if you need to get hold of me, but do not have Omen near you to track me down. I have several aliases, connected to a few post boxes around the country. If something is there for me, I will be notified, and thus can assume communication once again. It might not be used frequently, but one never know what might happen, and thus a backup plan, is always a wise option.

As for the cave functioning as a safe haven: I hope it will not come to that, but if it does, I acknowledge, and accept the proposed arrangement. Thank you."

They were all but done eating at this point, with only what were saved for Omen, left yet uneaten. And it had been a nice, filling meal, yet Rosa did find that he were not feeling well, relying to much on others for his meals, at this current point in time. He needed to work, and he knew that Scarcity were well aware of that too. She probably had foregone her planned meeting between them for now, over seeing if he would come to her, before the matter with the golems were prepared.

"I do hope Omen returns soon. She have a pleasant meal waiting for her when she does. Likely fromt he bakery, that we have been at yesterday. She strikes me as one, who prefers to go with the known, rather than searching for long, if she searches for with a purpose in mind. As Shrimp is there too with her.... Hmm, hopefully that cat is not there at the same time. There might be some clashing, and potential trouble that would arise from that. Which would be a shame, to put it mildly. I'd prefer if we got along well with those, here in the old town."

He'd begin to clean the dishes, as he spoke. It had to be done after all, so he might as well get started on it, yes?

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

@AuroraGlimmer @flutterJackdash

On 2022-10-24 at 3:14 AM, Delilah Dusk said:

"Right, I'm not trying to be insulting... I'm trying to set boundaries, and despite my frustrations you are without the slightest hint of remorse. I know you have no way of knowing from looking on the outside, but I'm not at my best when being carried away by unknown entities. Don't know that anyone would be, there is a degree of sensitivity that should go into dealing with this sort of situation, not simply a visual assessment and physical reaction with no introduction or explanation. I wasn't weak, just dizzy, and I lay down of my own volition because of that. You never even asked if I could try to open my eyes, just saw that they were squeezed shut and made an assumption. In fact, it is your friend here that made the introductions since you hadn't bothered with a proper hello much less a greeting for me."

Delilah exhales after this sudden rant, sighing again, "Okay... I'm sorry. I really am grateful for your help though. Though I have no idea what you mean when you say I was unwilling to open my heads."

Nerzhei leaned down on one knee, as the pony talked, to get more in her height. She'd still be higher up, but it would get her closer, and she'd remain silent, until she had mentioned that last part, at which point there would be a pause, in which to respond. It were unlikely that the pony would know what her response would be in advance though. She did not seem angry per se. Low grade annoyed, but that were her permanent state it seemed, so that were hardly something to go by.

"...You're right. I accept that I erred, and made assumptions, where I should have asked questions, and made proper introductions. I will keep this in mind for another time."

Nerzhei were a dragon, and as such, did have some pride that made it hard for her to simply apologize. But she would accept that she had messed up, with how she approached things, and would acknowledge that she needed to do better.

"And the last part were a slip of the tongue. I meant eyes."

She'd get up on her feet again, and brushed some dirt off of the knee of her robe.

"If you feel able to walk, then I'm not going to intrude on that anymore. We're almost in town anyway. Predators shouldn't be this close."

On 2022-10-25 at 1:02 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

"If it helps, I don't mind if you wait outside of town while Honey and I get Delilah to the doctors and somewhere to sleep" she'd suggest to her "I get the feeling you and the townsponies don't exactly..get along all that well"

"You're mistaken on this. Them and I, are not enemies. In fact, i much prefer them, to where I grew up.

That said, your buildings are not designed for beings of my stature, and I do not walk on all fours. The only exception, being the castle, where I went yesterday. I find your princess a very agreeable pony to be around. One who appreciates history, no matter how uncomfortable it might be for some."

She'd wait for them to be ready, before taking more steps, and moving at a pace that suited Delilah.

As they entered town, they'd get some looks. Specifically, Nerzhei would, as she were an odd sight, even for a dragon, but no one yelled at her, or threw things. Yet nor did they greet her. A mutual thing, as she didn't either, and seemed to just be focused on the hospital. For all intends and purposes, it appeared as they were more just tolerating each-others presence, rather than start anything, that none of them wanted to.

They didn't get far in, before Nerzhei would briefly halt though, and pinch the bridge of her nose, whilst closing her eyes. It would last a few seconds, and afterwards, she would continue to move on, not addressing this, lest others did so first.

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

@Kujamih

Shark appreciated the offer, but found the bed were just too soft and dry for her taste. She lived all her life in water, and even now, did need to keep herself hydrated, to not dry out rather badly. The lake were just below where he slept too, so she would not be far, and as the lake were crystal clear, he could even see her, as she'd swim around a few times, and if he were flopping about at the edge, would randomly come on, rub her nose against his, then dive, and make a few circles.

Yet eventually, they would need to rest. As would the half dozen others who snuck back into the school. Seemed like they weren't as unique, as they might had thought they were.

If he needed help, Shark would try and carry Light back up to the window, but if he needed her or not, she wouldn't send him off without first, getting close to him, and rub her muzzle around his, in a circular fashion. Her affection levels were increasing for her nice mate, who had showed her such a nice time now, and she wanted to let him know, that he were appreciated, and that she looked forward to seeing him the day after.

When her time came to rest, she'd dive to the bottom of the lake, and as the sand fell down, he'd find her curled up, resting soundly, as small bubbles now and then, escaped her gills. In her grip, would also be her toy, found here in the lake. Much like a pony and their plush animals.

Regardless of how long this took, at seven sharp in the morning, the wakeup call would come throughout the school, via the sound of a rather noisy school bell. Which Shark did not hear, due to her being down in the lake, but if he looked out, Light would find that someone were trying to wake her up. Or had been sent to. It were a pink pegasus, with a green mohawk, and puffy tail, looking confused down through her large, round glasses, clearly wondering how she were going to go about this.

They'd also find that they had spectators. The two kitsune siblings, looking out from their window a half dozen meters to the right, down at Shark sleeping in the lake.

There were a fairly good chance, that of these three, at least one thought that she had drowned, and just didn't know who to call.

Evil Pink One · October 27, 2022

@Blitz Boom

Light was in cloud 9 as he interacts with Shark, but the night won't last and both of them had to go back to sleep.

As he reminisce and blush at the new memories he made with Shark. He tries to sleep at his new bed.

" Sleep huh... I've never done this... Since forever... I wonder if I remember how to sleep..."

He'd then wake up in a shock and gasp.

" What just happened!?... He said half asleep.

He looks outside a bit of a daze and sees it's morning...

" Hmm... I guess I fell asleep then..." Then he'd see a pegasi pondering on the pond where Shark sleeps.

He'd casually drop of the window and land softly at the ground.

He'd call the pegasi's attention.

" Excuse me miss? Can I help you?" He asked.

EQ_Theta · October 28, 2022

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-10-27 at 4:59 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I like fire. It tastes warm. Chili is a little like fire., sometimes. This one is more than fire. I have eaten lit candles, and burning charcoal. It were less warm than this. Maybe the chilies you know, are different? Something to try someday, yes.

If it makes ponies cry, that is a bad thing for you then, yes? ponies like things that are sweet instead? I see many bakers everywhere. And many apples. So apple pie, is the best food for ponies. Is that right?"

“That’s right, though you probably haven’t met many who dared to defy expectations. Most ponies wouldn’t try something they know they won’t like, others do so out of curiosity, and then there are the few that know how things will go and still do it anyway. I wouldn’t eat a ghost pepper though; I know my limits and won’t tempt fate otherwise. As for what makes the best food for ponies, it’s not for me to say. Growing apples looks to be a thriving business, and where there is an abundance and demand for apples, there will be others who will try to make something out of them. That’s how it goes in business, even if that is just one part of it.”

Peaks isn’t one to speak for knowing whether apples are the perfect food for ponykind, though she does hold some respect for those who could make an endless number of dishes based on that one main ingredient. The bakery is what she knows, but it isn’t the kind of bakery that also makes confections on the side. It just so happened that she has some types of bread or pastries that used apples, but that’s not her main forte. Being a generalist could get her more customers, especially when her options could cater to different tastes, and being in that business for a while now hinted that there is a demand for the kind of bread she makes. That’s enough of a start to let her know what others want in their bread.

On 2022-10-27 at 4:59 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Things were going well, but the claw made Shrimp back away again, and hide behind Hammond. He might not be large, but he were larger than him, and about the size of a regular cat. He'd cover the refraction, in Shrimp's mind.

Hammond did not react on this, which Shrimp did also bite note in. He did not seem scared, nor backed away. And he were a larger one. Did this mean that this wasn't... Dangerous? He kept making signs at Munchkin, as he saw this, and eventually went back to try and connect the two, via his paws. He figured it worth a chance, to see if Shrimp would go closer, if he kept his paw down with him, to kinda shield him from things. He had tried to tell that to Munchkin, but the cat probably didn't understand him.

With this in mind, Shrimp would hesitantly go back out then, and once again, try and poke the cat with his tail. If the same response happened, he'd go back a little bit, just to make sure the paw were still there, from Hammond. Then he'd try going forward, and actually make contact. The claw did not make him feel safe, but he were at least not hitting *flight or fight* territory. Considering he could breathe fire, and the glittery blast, it were best that it did not go that far, and it appeared Munchkin did not yet, cause him to be truly scared, nor annoyed him enough.

Speaking of what someone wanted, Munchkin was starting to want another playmate, though the signs and gestures from Hammond didn’t seem to do much. The cat just stared back at the two odd creatures, alternating her mewing and chattering when Shrimp’s tail came back out again. Now this was what she hoped. She stretched out one paw to try and touch Shrimp’s tail, though being a literal munchkin cat means her stubby legs would only get her so far.

If this was the type of play she’d expect, it’ll probably require a bit for time before something resembling the actual kind of playtime she’d hoped will happen. Peaks once brought a little toy butterfly on a stick, and seeing her wiggling it around was quite enticing. The cat wanted to see if something like it will happen here with Shrimp.

Eventually, the sight of several ponies standing outside and looking at the bread display cases outside got the baker’s attention. Between that and the next batch of bread she’s preparing, there’s still more work to be done. It wouldn’t look good on her if she was caught slacking, but she was greatly enjoying her chat with Omen. Alas, there are things that should be prioritized…

*sigh* “Looks like there are some potential customers outside, and I should get back to the next batch of freshly baked bread. I’m preparing for the lunch crowd, so I have to get to it before I get caught off guard. Thank you for the enlightening morning; I hope we get to meet again some time. Besides, you’ve still got that bread platter from earlier. It wouldn’t be right if you didn’t get to enjoy that.”

On 2022-10-27 at 4:59 AM, Blitz Boom said:

As for the couriers I mention, that is mostly in regards to if you need to get hold of me, but do not have Omen near you to track me down. I have several aliases, connected to a few post boxes around the country. If something is there for me, I will be notified, and thus can assume communication once again. It might not be used frequently, but one never know what might happen, and thus a backup plan, is always a wise option.

As for the cave functioning as a safe haven: I hope it will not come to that, but if it does, I acknowledge, and accept the proposed arrangement. Thank you."

They were all but done eating at this point, with only what were saved for Omen, left yet uneaten. And it had been a nice, filling meal, yet Rosa did find that he were not feeling well, relying to much on others for his meals, at this current point in time. He needed to work, and he knew that Scarcity were well aware of that too. She probably had foregone her planned meeting between them for now, over seeing if he would come to her, before the matter with the golems were prepared.

"I do hope Omen returns soon. She have a pleasant meal waiting for her when she does. Likely fromt he bakery, that we have been at yesterday. She strikes me as one, who prefers to go with the known, rather than searching for long, if she searches for with a purpose in mind. As Shrimp is there too with her.... Hmm, hopefully that cat is not there at the same time. There might be some clashing, and potential trouble that would arise from that. Which would be a shame, to put it mildly. I'd prefer if we got along well with those, here in the old town."

He'd begin to clean the dishes, as he spoke. It had to be done after all, so he might as well get started on it, yes?

“I’ve heard of a saying… something along the lines of ‘what’s mine is yours?’ We don’t know exactly what will happen, but it’s best to have a hideout in case we need it.”

“I guess that a start for our plans, though it would be best to wait until Omen gets back before we make our preparations. Wonder what’s got her interest? She’s been away for a while…”

“I’m sure she’s fine, but we might need to look for her in case this goes on for much longer. Since we’re waiting, is there anything we could do to help? I feel bad just sitting here and waiting while you’re doing some work. Maybe you can show us what you’re doing?”

Though Lin was likely speaking for herself, Sen quietly agreed that he wanted to help clean the dishes. However, the two didn’t really understand what went through the process, seeing as they never had to do this kind of cleaning up before, not to mention requiring plates and utensils while eating until they ventured to Equestria. Even then, they found themselves only eating straight from their reserves or having meals with disposable tools. The exception was their dinner with Uddo and Kiba, and their uncle took charge of cleanup.

They figured that if they’ll be integrating more into pony society, they’d at least try to understand and learn so they could do their part next time. After all, it wouldn’t reflect well on their friend if they appeared to slack off when they could be doing something.

Catpone Cerberus · October 30, 2022

@Blitz Boom
Charir looked closely at the show going on in front of him, but it was really anyone's guess if he actually understood what Leviathan was trying to show, since there wasn't really a way for Leviathan to ask him about it, but at least he seemed like he was trying to learn. Mainly the problem for him was the lack of context, because while the elemental part about the whole thing was somewhat clear, he did not know about the differences between different dragons of Equestria, or that they were split to elements, after all, all dragons he knew were his own kind, and Leviathan; his kind, as far as he knew, didn't have any obvious differences in element, to him elemental magic was just that, magic, and funnily enough, he himself was the first of his kind he knew of that had elemental magic of any kind.

What he did seem to understand more visibly was the dragons depicting the three of them, based on how he looked at them and then the real life counterparts, though whatever he thought about it was soon washed away by awe as Leviathan tried the sun thing, if nothing else, one thing was clear, Charir was clearly impressed by Leviathan's magic, and looked up to her, a clear difference to how he looked at Ruby, because while he respected both of them, admiration and fear were quite different things.

Ruby didn't say anything at first, letting Leviathan to finish, because even she didn't know enough to know if interruption could ruin something, and well, she too may have gotten her eye caught on Leviathan's show, maybe. She did speak after it seemed nothing too important was going on anymore "Can't say I've been compared to the sun before, though I guess we both have blinded and burned lot of things." she remarked "Or are you implying that I light up your day?" while this wasn't the first jokeful/playful thing she had said to Leviathan, it still probably sounded bit weird coming from her, especially with the context of her cryptic compliment from before.

After she had Leviathan's attention, she would give her scroll she took from the bag, it was made of...something, it was almost like paper but not quite, and from look of some marks on it, it was probably fireproof, or at least very fire-resistant, though she did not clarify what it was, as she wanted to let Leviathan respond this time

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

The reactions to the trap were what one would probably expect at this point, Chega and Sear were both shocked, but their exact reactions were different from each other, Chega was visibly frightened, she had been through a lot, but being hunted like this was not included in that lot, and it wasn't until now she really got hit with the realization that there was a true threat, Sear meanwhile, was more worried than scared, being bit more used to life threatening situations, but that worry was not for herself, as evidenced by her getting closer to Chega and physically covering her with her body, and while she didn't say anything, and her expression was nothing extreme, something about her just radiated in a way that anyone close to her could tell that she'd die before letting anyone as much as scratch Chega.

The siblings were lot more unfazed, they did look around with Harpoon to see if they'd spot anyone, but other than that they were more annoyed than anything, and you could almost hear them rolling their eyes at the fact that they would need to look for traps now. That didn't mean they didn't take the threat seriously though, as evidenced by Trox stopping everyone before the room, and proceeding to check the door for any more traps with his metal arm, the good thing was that unlike back home, they probably didn't need to worry about explosives and other more destructive things. Both of them also joined Harpoon in checking the room, regardless of if she wanted it or not, if she said something about it, they'd just point out that this wasn't their first rodeo.

"Only if you provoke her." Trox stated "Don't get me wrong, Solar wasn't lying about her, she is a lunatic, and we wish nothing but the worst of the worst to her, but it's not quite that simple." Sheska joined in "It's not like she has been going around wiping out villages and towns in the Night-Realm, you don't become a general by killing your own." "And even with the massacres she has done, it has never been the sole purpose, it is more...intentional collateral damage." while their hatred was once again apparent, they held it together enough to talk calmly "She needs a reason she can use to convince herself that she didn't just slaughter bunch of innocents." "She actually still believes she is helping our kind with what she does, regardless of how clear it has been made to her that nobody from our species likes her."

"The point is, she probably won't do anything to this place, especially since she is coming to us, this isn't exactly our first meeting, and she will not risk accidentally hurting us because that is the last thing she has to convince herself she isn't a traitor. There also isn't a reason to attack this place, even by her twisted logic, there's no military, you have what, three guards here? two night-guards and you, and maybe Solar, and he's really the only one who she would have a reason to just kill." "The night guards are by all intents and purposes her allies, as she's a Nightmare commander, a special unit in the Night's army, and you, well, there is no equivalent in our world, so depending on how long she has been watching us, she may even think you're just private hired security." "Sure, she likes to say that she isn't really loyal to the Night, but of course she is, even if she didn't start like that, you don't serve several centuries without getting attached." their answer opened lot of new questions, but as they said, it was bit complicated, Sear had a question right away, "What about the hatred of ponies, does that not pose a risk?" "There's always a risk, but like said, she doesn't just randomly go around slaughtering ponies, she has had hundreds of years of military training to learn self-control, even Nightmare moon doesn't want aimless slaughter."

Blitz Boom · November 1, 2022

@Kujamih

On 2022-10-27 at 10:07 AM, Kujamih said:

He'd casually drop of the window and land softly at the ground.

He'd call the pegasi's attention.

" Excuse me miss? Can I help you?" He asked.

Considering the window he had, were right at the point where the lake started, after the river, he wouldn't be landing on dry land, if he just went down now. But if he were to jump off to the side, he could probably hit the riverbank, without getting his hooves and legs too wet. Either way, he'd get the pegasi's attention soon after he started to speak, and she'd flutter over to him.

"Uhm, I kinda... Was told to go and wake up somepony, they said slept at the lake. W-Well, they said in the lake, but that wouldn't make sense, unless they were a kelpie, or mermaid. And uhm... She isn't, right? I'm not really sure what to do."

As her back had been turned, Shark had woken up down there, and after yawning, would look up, seeing her mate, and this other pony. Something which made her get a spark of energy in her eyes, and make her rush upwards at great speed. It was all in the tail, and shark or pony, she still had the experience, and the tail, that she needed for proper propulsion.

As she broke the surface, the pegasus would turn around, and look down on the wet Shark, looking up at her, with big eyes, and a sharp-toothed grin on her face.

"Bird!"

"Eep!"

The pegasus would fly up high, heart racing in her chest.

"Hehe. Friend and bird. Funny.

Hi."

THe last word, were said as she'd swim over to Light, and rub the side of her went face, affectionally against his. So nice thing to wake up to, seeing her mate. And she did not even have to sleep on the weird surface to do so. All good and nice here.

"Is good day, in dry place? Sleep good?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2022-10-30 at 5:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby didn't say anything at first, letting Leviathan to finish, because even she didn't know enough to know if interruption could ruin something, and well, she too may have gotten her eye caught on Leviathan's show, maybe. She did speak after it seemed nothing too important was going on anymore "Can't say I've been compared to the sun before, though I guess we both have blinded and burned lot of things." she remarked "Or are you implying that I light up your day?" while this wasn't the first jokeful/playful thing she had said to Leviathan, it still probably sounded bit weird coming from her, especially with the context of her cryptic compliment from before.

"Of course you bright up my day, my little ray of sunshine."

Leviathan would grin at Ruby, enjoying her little bout of humor. It were not something she should get too used to probably, but it were still something that Leviathan considered nice. Gave a bit of a look behind the gruff exterior, that Ruby set up. Made it feel like she were getting comfy around the two of them. She were pretty sure that it affected Charir too. Even if he couldn't tell what Ruby were saying, when she spoke ponish, the mood and tension, were notably lesser like this.

"I really hoped to get it done proper though. I can't mold fire. Fire is just... Fire, y'know? I'm a weather mage, if you wanna simplify it. Sunlight can certainly burn too, but it's hard to concentrate into a stable form. Can't even get a ray of it or anything to work. Just a few fleeting pops of light, and then well, an attempt at molding, that didn't last. Lightning were unstable and tricky at first too, but least it were tangible. This is just... Eh, it's hard to explain.

Least there's been some progress for me, the last few centuries. To start with, I couldn't even do a single thing with it. So things do move on, but it's a hurdle, that's proving to be a right bother. Still can do general red though. Rainbows are just water, with dust and light, giving it color. The right dust, and I can have a nice little red rainy Ruby. But it just ain't the same."

She'd prove the point, by making one, and it were indeed lesser, in some way. One could still tell it were a rain cloud, even if it were colored in nice red hues, and it just wasn't as shining and impressive looking. Even if it were more stable.

On 2022-10-30 at 5:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

After she had Leviathan's attention, she would give her scroll she took from the bag, it was made of...something, it was almost like paper but not quite, and from look of some marks on it, it was probably fireproof, or at least very fire-resistant, though she did not clarify what it was, as she wanted to let Leviathan respond this time

"Ooooh, are we getting homework?"

She'd take the offered scroll, and unfold it. SHe probably wouldn't be able to tell a darn thing of what it said inside, but the paper were pretty neat at least. Parchment? Paper? Darn if she knew, but it seemed nice and sturdy. Good stuff for scrolls, since these things tended to disintegrate easily, over the centuries, if not stored proper in some way. This here seemed like it'd last a good deal longer. Probably had in fact.

"So... Am I holding it right?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

There thankfully wouldn't be traps in their room. The assailant, likely didn't know what room they were staying in, but had prepared something at the door of the inn, as it were the most frequented one, for travelers, in the town. A fair chance that newcomers would eventually need to use that, so it had been a good location for a trap. Now that they knew that the last witnesses were here though, that meant that they could work more narrowly. Soon as they knew the room, and the layout, it likely wouldn't be as safe, to return a second time. It were also likely best to stay away from any windows, to not leave an obvious opening. She'd ask them to conform to that, at least for now.

On 2022-10-30 at 5:17 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"What about the hatred of ponies, does that not pose a risk?" "There's always a risk, but like said, she doesn't just randomly go around slaughtering ponies, she has had hundreds of years of military training to learn self-control, even Nightmare moon doesn't want aimless slaughter."

"I can foresee an issue there then. Specifically, you're currently being targeted by an assassin. I don't see who else it would be at least, that those knives were left for. And if you claim Sheez is so set in not wanting to harm you, then what'd happen, if she took notice in someone trying to hurt you? You know better of course, but from what I hear at least, it doesn't sound out of the realm of possibilities, that she might raze the town, just to make sure that the assassin would be taken care of.

Of course, I might just be overthinking it. But the more I hear about her, the harder it gets to not be concerned.

And speaking of the assassin... Even if Sheez does not go after them, so broadly, and just looking beyond her maybe hunting for that one herself now, this one is starting to become an issue. It appears they aren't satisfied with just attacking some ponies in town. They want to have some payback, on the ones who saved their victims. First that were the ponies, then Onache, and now it seems, the turn have come to you.

The daggers seemed poisoned too. Is there any sort of general poison, that works best on kobolds, that they might have used? Anything that might give a hint, as to what we're dealing with? So far, it all just points to being one from Neighpon. Or potentially one with just a lot of things from there, but the first option seems more likely. Which would narrow it down to likely a pony, or a kitsune. Not a lot of other races that lives there, from what I hear. Maybe if we can narrow it a bit more, somepony will stick out from the crowd?"

Sheez were something to focus on as well, but the most pressing matters, had to be dealt with in order. And Sheez were seemingly not going to go in, and kill all of them, from what they said. Not without some sort of reason. So the prime focus, should be on the one hunting them for now. Conversationally at least. Depending on the answers, they might have to go back to the matter of Sheez again, before long.

Nothing today was just gonna be nice and simple, was it?

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-10-28 at 1:28 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“That’s right, though you probably haven’t met many who dared to defy expectations. Most ponies wouldn’t try something they know they won’t like, others do so out of curiosity, and then there are the few that know how things will go and still do it anyway. I wouldn’t eat a ghost pepper though; I know my limits and won’t tempt fate otherwise. As for what makes the best food for ponies, it’s not for me to say. Growing apples looks to be a thriving business, and where there is an abundance and demand for apples, there will be others who will try to make something out of them. That’s how it goes in business, even if that is just one part of it.”

"I am like the second ones. I do not need to eat, but I want to try things.

Business sounds... Curious. If something is wanted, more of it is made, and others then use it, in more ways? It makes sense, but then there is more parts to it?

This is why, it takes so long, to understand this world. Many things that seem simple, have many more layers. Ponies are very complicated."

This were why she preferred things like snakes. They were very simple. They would sleep on warm rocks, slither around, and eat smaller animals. Then rinse and repeat. There were not all sorts of layers, like with ponies, most of the time.

"I have seen many ponies, grow many apples. Ponyville have a farm full of them. Maybe I should ask them sometime, how apples and business works. They should know, yes?"

On 2022-10-28 at 1:28 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Speaking of what someone wanted, Munchkin was starting to want another playmate, though the signs and gestures from Hammond didn’t seem to do much. The cat just stared back at the two odd creatures, alternating her mewing and chattering when Shrimp’s tail came back out again. Now this was what she hoped. She stretched out one paw to try and touch Shrimp’s tail, though being a literal munchkin cat means her stubby legs would only get her so far.

If this was the type of play she’d expect, it’ll probably require a bit for time before something resembling the actual kind of playtime she’d hoped will happen. Peaks once brought a little toy butterfly on a stick, and seeing her wiggling it around was quite enticing. The cat wanted to see if something like it will happen here with Shrimp.

They seemed to manage to find a sort of back and forth, once Shrimp started to notice how she were trying to put her paw on his tail. So he'd lay it out, then retract, or slide it to the side, when he saw Munchkin try and reach for it. He were testing boundaries here, which were good. It meant he were slowly getting a little more confident around the larger cat. Though in fairness, most things were larger than him, and he were keenly aware of that.

Hammond would stop doing much else, as that began. It seemed he did not need to do more, so he'd just stand there, for now, and let things unfold around him. Seemed to be a bonding thing, which he were told by Mother, were important, no matter how odd they presented themselves.

On 2022-10-28 at 1:28 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Eventually, the sight of several ponies standing outside and looking at the bread display cases outside got the baker’s attention. Between that and the next batch of bread she’s preparing, there’s still more work to be done. It wouldn’t look good on her if she was caught slacking, but she was greatly enjoying her chat with Omen. Alas, there are things that should be prioritized…

*sigh* “Looks like there are some potential customers outside, and I should get back to the next batch of freshly baked bread. I’m preparing for the lunch crowd, so I have to get to it before I get caught off guard. Thank you for the enlightening morning; I hope we get to meet again some time. Besides, you’ve still got that bread platter from earlier. It wouldn’t be right if you didn’t get to enjoy that.”

"I understand. I will come back some other time, when I sense you are here. Or if you get lost. Good luck with the customers? I think that was right.

Will you come too, brother?"

Hammond were uncertain, and would point towards Munchkin, as Omen turned her head, to look at them.

"Okay."

Omen would open a gate, leading to the dark realm, and this time, several meters away, would swirl one open, to another, familiar place. This one up high though, but the ever shifting terrain of the Ki'Nathar's realm, would shift, to accommodate the travel, with a bit of a mushy, semi-solid hill to walk on. One which she'd aim for.

If Munchkin stayed on her back as they moved, she'd be able to come with them, to the home of Rosa, where Shrimp would then slither off of Omen, and on to a nearby table, ready to be a bit more bold, in slithering around, avoiding the cat's paws.

If however, she preferred to not do that, and would jump off, Hamond would too, and as the gate closed behind Omen, he'd look at her, then point around. One finger going towards the way they had entered. Another for the baker, and the last towards a small pinpoint gate he were starting to open. He were essentially asking, what way she wanted to go. Following the baker around, go outside, and explore town, or go to the house, that she had been in before.

If she went into the dark realm, and began to wander around, exploring, she'd find that a lot of shadowy masses, with a myriad of eyes, would be on her shortly thereafter, curious what this little creature were. The gate back to the baker were open still in this case, allowing her quick escape, if she wished for that.

On 2022-10-28 at 1:28 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’ve heard of a saying… something along the lines of ‘what’s mine is yours?’ We don’t know exactly what will happen, but it’s best to have a hideout in case we need it.”

“I guess that a start for our plans, though it would be best to wait until Omen gets back before we make our preparations. Wonder what’s got her interest? She’s been away for a while…”

“I’m sure she’s fine, but we might need to look for her in case this goes on for much longer. Since we’re waiting, is there anything we could do to help? I feel bad just sitting here and waiting while you’re doing some work. Maybe you can show us what you’re doing?”

Though Lin was likely speaking for herself, Sen quietly agreed that he wanted to help clean the dishes. However, the two didn’t really understand what went through the process, seeing as they never had to do this kind of cleaning up before, not to mention requiring plates and utensils while eating until they ventured to Equestria. Even then, they found themselves only eating straight from their reserves or having meals with disposable tools. The exception was their dinner with Uddo and Kiba, and their uncle took charge of cleanup.

They figured that if they’ll be integrating more into pony society, they’d at least try to understand and learn so they could do their part next time. After all, it wouldn’t reflect well on their friend if they appeared to slack off when they could be doing something.

"Ah, speaking of the sun, it doth shine."

"Yes, it is day."

"It's a saying, it... Nevermind, it isn't important.

Apologies for not waiting with breakfast until you returned, but we weren't sure how long you'd be gone, and the hunger of us were notable. Worry not though, we made sure to save you some. Also, I would like to thank you for the kindness, in providing breakfast for us. I shall add this to the list, of things that I owe you for."

Omen would wander closer, and begin to look at him, from the front, via a few different angles. It appeared she were searching for something, without touching him. It puzzled Rosa for a moment but then he realized what it were that he had said, and took it from there.

"There is not a physical list on me. It's a mental note. A thought of things, if you will."

"Okay."

Omen had arrived too quickly, for him to respond to what had been asked, but one thing at a time. First he'd be polite, and thank her, then he'd lead her to her bowl of food. After he had done so, and she were beginning to slowly eat her way through the portion of the dish she had brought, he would return to the others to speak.

"My apologies. One step at a time, as it were.

As if there is something you can help with, you needn't burden yourself with that currently. When we are all on our way, I will be going on with the tedious part of my day, that we may perhaps meet up later, when there is more time for things. Lest you are preferring some alone time, which is of course, something that are allowed. Boundaries and all, should not just be for Omen to accept.

I'd say I might need help with the dishes, but this meal were very self contained, so that weren't needed either, so things are quite well here. That said, is there anything I can do for you, at this current injunction in our lives?"

flutterJackdash · November 1, 2022

On 2022-10-26 at 4:59 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Nerzhei leaned down on one knee, as the pony talked, to get more in her height. She'd still be higher up, but it would get her closer, and she'd remain silent, until she had mentioned that last part, at which point there would be a pause, in which to respond. It were unlikely that the pony would know what her response would be in advance though. She did not seem angry per se. Low grade annoyed, but that were her permanent state it seemed, so that were hardly something to go by.

"...You're right. I accept that I erred, and made assumptions, where I should have asked questions, and made proper introductions. I will keep this in mind for another time."

Nerzhei were a dragon, and as such, did have some pride that made it hard for her to simply apologize. But she would accept that she had messed up, with how she approached things, and would acknowledge that she needed to do better.

"And the last part were a slip of the tongue. I meant eyes."

She'd get up on her feet again, and brushed some dirt off of the knee of her robe.

"If you feel able to walk, then I'm not going to intrude on that anymore. We're almost in town anyway. Predators shouldn't be this close."

@Blitz Boom @AuroraGlimmer

Delilah nods, "Thank you, I appreciate all you've done for me. It is a big much, but I can keep them open. Just a heavy headache is all."

The mare puffed out her cheeks before cracking her neck and looking around, "Well, I hope you don't mind if I walk with you. Whether or not predators are nearby, the company is nice all the same."

Sphinx-Ara · November 1, 2022

@flutterJackdash @Blitz Boom

Skittles would nod and listen "I apologise myself for assuming, miss Nerzhei, and alright, well we won't be too long, we'll just take miss Delilah here to the doctors and then we can go get Honey Dew his Phoenix chick" she says, walking into the town with them and looking around, "I love how peaceful it is here...most of the time"

Evil Pink One · November 1, 2022

@Blitz Boom

" it's been.... Ahmm... A while since I had sleep... So.... I guess it's good? Don't know how I did it though?" He questioned.

He then ponders what the pegasi was up to... Was it something important? Definitely something school related he presumed.

If the pegasi won't come back he'd suggest to shark that they'd head to the head mare's office and ask if there is something important to do... Maybe it's their schedule for the school? Hopefully nothing too serious.

" We should go to the head mare and maybe ask about our schedule here in the school. Then we can go on a date to where Alonsus mentioned."

Rising Dusk · November 2, 2022

@Blitz Boom

Rising, had never been on this side of the crowd. No, he'd always lived within the crowd. Gazing up at wonderous beings parading down busy streets or commanding the grandest of stages. Now, the detective from Manehattan stood before the gathered masses of a distant, foreign land. The Queen gave her speech, the first of these kinds at such masses in who knew how long. The gathered crowd was well tamed, silent and all attentive to the words of their ruler. The city itself wasn't all too far off from what Rising expected to see. Granted his limited experience in locations around Harrowmark, but the city was equally rustic and old fashion by Equestrian standards. Decorations could be seen popping up here and there from would he could guess was a combination of lack of resources for such celebration and then in of itself, a lack of practice in holding such grand events.

The Queen had finished her speech and stepped aside. Rising was snapped back to the moment as she motioned for the stallion to take her place at the edge of the balcony where the voice amplifiers awaited. He wasn't quite sure how to feel at this moment as he was presented to the masses with his Harrowmark title. Working among a crowd while at work was all the more different than just standing before them. His legs managed to move him forward to take his place. The heart in his chest pounding. Fear? No, fear did not assault him. The crushing weight of the past few days was all summoned upon him as thousands of eyes starred up at him. Citizens having their rumors and stories affirmed by the presence of a detective from a far off land presented before them. Their first sight of him before statue or picture could be gathered.

It was dead silent.

A rather poetic meaning from what Harrowmark has thus far taught him.

They expected a speech. Did he expect a speech? How laughable. The stoic detective, more interested in listening and observing, up here to be heard and seen.

Breath managed to escape his lips. "A few days ago... Harrowmark and Equestria were just lines on a map. Separated by distance and a dark veil that cast our two worlds into the annals of time, stories, myths, legends. Forgotten by but the most long memories or the most studied of scholars. A hoof reached through that veil. A dark, horrid hoof, that didn't know, by breaching that dark veil they had connected our lands for the first time in hundreds of moons. I will not claim my actions were the most heroic of merit. That dark hoof had attacked my home. I came to make sure it never happened again. My arrival cast aside the veil that separated us. We can be seen again. Beacons of a hopeful future for the world to see. It brings me joy to know here today, to full breath my actions have brought Harrowmark. So much lays ahead of us, but together, we can build a road to the stars and beyond. I am Rising Dusk, Detective of the O.M.I. in Equestria. Dusk Knight of Harrowmark. Please, allow me to be first of Equestria to extend my hoof in Friendship to you all!" Rising concluded by extending his hoof to the crowd in symbolic gesture.

EQ_Theta · November 2, 2022

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-11-01 at 8:26 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I have seen many ponies, grow many apples. Ponyville have a farm full of them. Maybe I should ask them sometime, how apples and business works. They should know, yes?"

They seemed to manage to find a sort of back and forth, once Shrimp started to notice how she were trying to put her paw on his tail. So he'd lay it out, then retract, or slide it to the side, when he saw Munchkin try and reach for it. He were testing boundaries here, which were good. It meant he were slowly getting a little more confident around the larger cat. Though in fairness, most things were larger than him, and he were keenly aware of that.

Hammond would stop doing much else, as that began. It seemed he did not need to do more, so he'd just stand there, for now, and let things unfold around him. Seemed to be a bonding thing, which he were told by Mother, were important, no matter how odd they presented themselves.

"I understand. I will come back some other time, when I sense you are here. Or if you get lost. Good luck with the customers? I think that was right.

“You are very curious; that’s not a bad thing at all. I’d say that’s something that’s good to be. It’s true that ponies have many layers to them; as you learn more, there will be more complicated things to follow. However, maybe it would be best to not try to understand every single detail about something; knowing just about enough to get by is usually more than enough for most. Otherwise, you’ll probably spend too much time trying to make sense of something too big to understand.

“I guess what I’m trying to say is to know your limits, but don’t hesitate to learn more. Maybe the Ponyville apple farmers could tell you more because I have no idea what goes on in their line of work. Thanks and see you around, Miss Omen! I hope you find the answers you’re looking for.”

As for Munchkin, she seems to have found a nice routine with Shrimp, probably even bordering on playing. Looks like the latter might be getting used to the ida of using his tail as a toy, and Munchkin knows she should be gentle with the creature. She didn’t even have her claws out, so the only thing Shrimp will feel when his tail is caught would be the soft, bean-like pads underneath Munchkin’s feet.

By then, a gate would open nearby, with Omen leaving. This was enough of a sign for the cat to leave, as the sight of such things was still unclear, possibly dangerous. For now, she’ll settle with the pet bed and Peak’s company at the bakery. Even with Hammond wondering where they’ll go next, the cat was certain about staying with Peaks. After all, this was a familiar place, and even without the new things she got to see, this bakery was familiar and comforting. It had been her refuge for the longest time, and it was hard to see it as anything else but that. Curiosity could wait for another day for her.

On 2022-11-01 at 8:26 AM, Blitz Boom said:

As if there is something you can help with, you needn't burden yourself with that currently. When we are all on our way, I will be going on with the tedious part of my day, that we may perhaps meet up later, when there is more time for things. Lest you are preferring some alone time, which is of course, something that are allowed. Boundaries and all, should not just be for Omen to accept.

I'd say I might need help with the dishes, but this meal were very self contained, so that weren't needed either, so things are quite well here. That said, is there anything I can do for you, at this current injunction in our lives?"

“I wouldn’t know where to begin because I don’t want to place more burdens on you, even if they are small. Maybe we’ll have one more look around town and see you off to where you will need to be before parting ways. However, I think we need to lay out what we have planned while we still can, just so Omen knows what to expect, and we will all be on the same page. Omen? It’s good you’re here because we have something to discuss with you. It’s about what will happen moving forward…”

“We won’t be able to stick around Rosa all the time now. We have things only we could do, just like Rosa has things only meant for him. We’ll still keep in touch, but we were hoping that you could help us with sending messages between ourselves. Don’t worry though because we’ve also come up with an alternative in case something makes it difficult to directly contact each other.”

“We’d like to ask about your thoughts on this arrangement and if you have any questions for us. While we’re at it, how would Omen know when to go to you if you have a message for us, Rosa? I’m fairly certain long-distance mind-reading or scent-detection isn’t part of Omen’s known skills. Unless they are, and I am mistaken.”

The siblings weren’t quite sure about how all this will fare for Omen, but their other concerns could wait until they could get the part that involved Omen ironed out. No point in having all of their questions pile up if they’d be left with something that isn’t quite a definitive answer. Then again, Sen thought this was it, the opportunity to really try and make some changes stick. They’ll be going home, arranging for a meeting with the elders and trying to see if what they argue for will stick. Sen would be lying if she said he wasn’t scared, but until the meeting happens, it’ll be a moment where he’d get butterflies in his stomach the more he thinks about it.

As for Lin, there’d be a lot of work to do once they head on home. Perhaps there will be more to their change in routine once they could figure out what needs to be done. Grandfather would need someone to look after him regularly now that they could see each other more often. After that, it’ll be a matter of getting their affairs settled.

Blitz Boom · November 3, 2022

@Rising Dusk

At first, there were silence. Complete and all encompassing, the tension in the air were palatable, and seemed to just hold there, Lingering, and waiting for someone to make the first move, as the seconds ticked by.

Then, from one of the roofs, a diamond dog pup would walk a few steps forward, to the edge of the roof, and lift her paw towards the detective. Sideways turned, signaling her want to shake the offered hoof.

A few of the foals around her, then began to follow suits. Then the caretakers they had up there, and then, as an avalanche, it began to spread throughout the crowd. Cheers and chants would follow soon after.

"Hail Sir Dusk!"

"Savior of Harrowmark!"

"Praise be Equestria!"

There would not be complete uniform cheer and joy, but as Rising had been told, there would be those who were still needing time to be convinced, and thus, would want to judge him more as he moved along. But the few out of thousands, would be hard to notice And it appeared that no one were foolish enough to try and attack him. It'd be pointless anyway. The knights stood ready to shield for him, and they'd be ganged upon by the crowd. Whoever supporter, or faithful of Twisted there might be, they were not this foolhardy. Not yet at least.

Or perhaps they had snuffed out the worst, and the rest were having second thoughts. A fair deal were possible to save, having been swayed from feeling as if they had no choice, and having done nothing so unforgivable, that there were no space for mercy.

The town flourished to life after this, with singing and dancing happening, as bards picked up magical instruments, and played joyfully in the streets, to keep the mood high. Vendors began opening their shops, tables began to get dragged forth, and soon enough, the town would await their hero's arrival, up close and personal.

Necrotic would signal the detective, and his family, to step back, and go back to the castle they had come from, as his parents took stage once more, and beamed down towards the citizens.

The door would close behind them, and they'd be given a moment of respite. Even if the town were notably loud through the doors still.

"Bravo, friend. You handled the situation well. It is not yet over, but there is a moment or reprise, as the town readies for your personal attendance. As are there things we need to do ourselves.

I am well aware that you and your lovely family, are obviously quite capable, yet if any of you got hurt, it would be a national scandal. Thus, I must insist that there is an escort with us. Mother's escort is to remain with her, in case of incident, but we have several, capable knights. I feel certain that we can arrange for a proper escort, with a short walk through their quarters. It will also offer you a few moments to collect yourself. I can imagine, from what have been said, that this meeting might have been a little... Daunting, as it were. A matter of breathing time, might well be in order, yes?"

He didn't wish to overstep his boundaries, but Necrotic still took some charge over things now, to both keep things as smoothly, safely, and considerate as they could be, considering what were to happen soon.

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

@Kujamih

The pegasi would return, though a little weary, and Shark would giggle a little, as she could tell the signs of the mare riled up on adrenaline. Fun to spook the bird pony.

"P-Please never do that again."

"Okay."

Shark would grin up, happy as a clam, whilst the peagsus were now added to the growing list of beings, who thought Light had weird taste in mares.

"I were asked to go and uhm, w-wake you up. The school day is starting, and since you're new students, you need to go to the main hall, and get a study plan sorted out, before you can join any classes. There uh, shouldn't be that many others. A couple of ponies, and you two, from what I've heard. And uh, those two."

She'd point up towards the kitsune, still looking out on them, until Shark would look up. When she waved enthusiastically, one of them would pop back inside, while the male would raise a paw, and wave slightly, before seemingly being dragged backwards. A small yip being heard, made it somewhat plausible, that he had been pulled back by his tail.

The process of the student plan were fairly simple. A half dozen of them, gathered near the principals office, and getting some papers to sign, so they could narrow down the right classes for them. Shark would need a second set, as she were too excited when the papers were handed too her, and accidentally shred tore a large hole through them with her teeth. At least she hadn't shredded them entirely, so some progress were made, though there were a short break, before she got new ones. Then an awkward moment, when she excitedly looked down on the papers, and loudly said *Fishy!*, due to it being the mark of the biology class.

They'd be able to get it done fairly easy though, with classes set to begin tomorrow.

As such, they'd have a few options.

1. They could stay in, and explore the school a bit more. They had seen a fair bit yesterday, but there were still places to go, and if they needed it, breakfast to get.

2. The could go out, and a have a date at the castle, though Shark didn't know what a date were. She assumed some kind of eating thing, but would be curious enough to not ask too much, wanting to be surprised.

3. They could go over and follow the kitsune siblings, as they stood dressed in their kimonos, and slowly walked around, close by, while others either starred, or avoided them. A fair guess who knew what a kitsune were, from the reactions, and the two of them appeared to mostly just rely on having one another for now. Some interaction might do them good.

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

@EQ_Theta

On 2022-11-02 at 1:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

By then, a gate would open nearby, with Omen leaving. This was enough of a sign for the cat to leave, as the sight of such things was still unclear, possibly dangerous. For now, she’ll settle with the pet bed and Peak’s company at the bakery. Even with Hammond wondering where they’ll go next, the cat was certain about staying with Peaks. After all, this was a familiar place, and even without the new things she got to see, this bakery was familiar and comforting. It had been her refuge for the longest time, and it was hard to see it as anything else but that. Curiosity could wait for another day for her.

With sister leaving, and Munchkin seemingly staying here, to hang out with Peaks, Hammond were sorta stuck, and unaware what to do. It did not seem like he should go and explore this place, so maybe, he should return home?

He were pondering this for a few minutes, before he heard the sound of familiar steps, following the doorbell going, and his ears perked. He'd scurry across the room, looking for the source, and rightfully so, he'd see Scarcity enter the bakery, and make her way to the back of the line, as were proper. She may think herself important, but some common decency should be followed. Besides, it gave her a chance to notice the available offerings, and make a decision.

Yet as she'd be noticed, so too would she bite note in him, and would let out a small, pearly laughter, then signal for the critter to come over. Something which he did, though jumped near the wall, to get there, to avoid confrontation with others. If they were okay seeing Munchkin here, he should be fine too, yes? He too were small, and hairy.

On the way there, he also noticed, that Scarcity were not alone. She had brought the filly along, who'd meet her little friend with hugs, soon as he came over.

"How delightful. I had wondered where you had gone off to, dearie. Having fun I assume?"

Hammond would nod, as he were in the grasp of Floral, who seemed all too pleased, to continue to give him hugs, before putting him up on her head.

On 2022-11-02 at 1:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I wouldn’t know where to begin because I don’t want to place more burdens on you, even if they are small. Maybe we’ll have one more look around town and see you off to where you will need to be before parting ways. However, I think we need to lay out what we have planned while we still can, just so Omen knows what to expect, and we will all be on the same page. Omen? It’s good you’re here because we have something to discuss with you. It’s about what will happen moving forward…”

“We won’t be able to stick around Rosa all the time now. We have things only we could do, just like Rosa has things only meant for him. We’ll still keep in touch, but we were hoping that you could help us with sending messages between ourselves. Don’t worry though because we’ve also come up with an alternative in case something makes it difficult to directly contact each other.”

“We’d like to ask about your thoughts on this arrangement and if you have any questions for us. While we’re at it, how would Omen know when to go to you if you have a message for us, Rosa? I’m fairly certain long-distance mind-reading or scent-detection isn’t part of Omen’s known skills. Unless they are, and I am mistaken.”

"You are not mistaken. I do not have some degree of telepathy with her. If I had, I would assume she'd have more questions for me, considering the way my mind works.

What I do have, are known connections to make use of. I know the address of her brother, whom should be well able to tell where she is, as well as the whereabouts of Discord, who have shown to be able to call upon her. I also know several couriers to make use of, to get a message towards either, in case I am in a delicate situation. I can work on setting up other points of connection later, but for now at least, I believe those two avenues should suffice, yes?"

As his teachers had been so fond of saying: Having a plan B, were wise. Having a plan C through H, were professionalism. So while he needed to put a few in motion, he had already thought of several ways, and backup ways, that he might make use of. They wouldn't work if for instance, he got trapped, but he had a few ideas for that too. Yet that would depend on a few factors, that he still needed to explore properly.

Meanwhile, Omen would be halfway through her meal, and would lift her head from the bread, to address the others. She might not know much about curtsey, but she were certain that she should be looking at others, while she spoke to them.

"I do not mind, sending messages. It were what Master Discord made me do too.

If Master Discord, or brother calls for me, because he have something from you, Rosa, I can deliver them too. I know where everyone are. Except for brother, and his master. Brother have a strange gem with him. I could not sense him, when I saw him with it. I think his master have the same. She is very smart."

"And regrettably fast. A matter of days, and she already devised a method to keep you away, in case she requires privacy. I can imagine she made your brother try and track her at first, but still... What kind of gem were it, do you know?"

"Shiny."

Rosa let out a small sigh, at that reply.

"I suppose I asked for that. Mayhap I will see in time myself, and can judge then.

Impending trouble aside though, we appear to all have something to stride towards then, in the coming days. If you wanted to have a trip more, before I need to begin the first part of my day, now after Omen s done eating, would likely be a good time for that. Unless there is any lingering things to have done first? Kitchen and table seems clean, and I believe we have covered things, but do correct me if I am wrong."

As it were brought up, Omen would go back to eating the leftover food, that had been set aside for her. She would only need a few minutes to be done, as she ate calmly through it. It tasted interesting. Nothing she recalled trying before, so that were good. She found new tastes, to be better, as it expanded her palate.

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

@AuroraGlimmer @flutterJackdash

On 2022-11-01 at 2:07 AM, Delilah Dusk said:

Delilah nods, "Thank you, I appreciate all you've done for me. It is a big much, but I can keep them open. Just a heavy headache is all."

The mare puffed out her cheeks before cracking her neck and looking around, "Well, I hope you don't mind if I walk with you. Whether or not predators are nearby, the company is nice all the same."

"Take it in the tempo you need, and if you do feel like fainting, say so. I might still need to carry you the rest of the way, if that becomes an issue. But you do look and sound more fresh than before, so I am assuming it to be the more unlikely outcome now."

The dragoness would get up on her legs again, and stretch her wings. The leathery skin between the bones, nearly glowing, with the sun basking in from behind, however briefly, before she folded them in again. It were not often she had a chance to fly here. Too busy with things, and as an earth aligned dragon, perfectly fine with walking. It were also troubling to do in the forest, as her wingspan were greater than most ponies, barring alicorns. Made it harder to fly, lest she climbed a tree first, or found a clearing, and she had little want to act like a cat.

On 2022-11-01 at 8:06 AM, AuroraGlimmer said:

Skittles would nod and listen "I apologise myself for assuming, miss Nerzhei, and alright, well we won't be too long, we'll just take miss Delilah here to the doctors and then we can go get Honey Dew his Phoenix chick" she says, walking into the town with them and looking around, "I love how peaceful it is here...most of the time"

"It might take a bit more. I need to go there myself regardless, to get some tests answers. And before you ask, it was a biopsy."

She'd turn her head, and lift a few lose scales, to show the entry point they had to make use off, when she were in for the procedure.

"Migraine attacks. They thought they might be able to determine the reason."

"Isn't that a little ah, excessive, just for migraine attacks?"

"Try having them for sixty years, and expect them to last another several thousand."

"Oh? Oh... Oh my, that's ah... I'm sorry to hear that. Hopefully they'll ah, be able to help you both, and we can get on with our day, yes?

And ah, don't think it a pressing matter, with the chick. It is ah, quite a nice thought, but your health do come first, after all.

And ah, yes. Ponyville is rather peaceful. barring the ah, monster attacks, and Discord antics. As well as ah, Pinkie's random party moods."

He'd look around nervously for her, as they'd get towards the hospital. Lest something happened with Delilah, or Pinkie or another, decided to intercept them, it should be a nice, simple walk up there, and they could all mark themselves at the reception. Although Nerzhei had to lean down some, to get through the door. The ceiling were thankfully bigger inside, but it was the matter of getting in here in the first place, that required some adaptability. That said, she should definitely not go jumping in here, or her horns might get stuck to the ceiling.

The receptionist would look at the guests, but Nerzhei wouldn't go first. Instead offering Delilah to go first. And meanwhile Honey would push up his glasses, and look over at the side, where he'd see a colt, walking along with a few ponies.

The unicorn colt turned his head to look around the hospital, and saw Honey. At which point, he'd let out a gasp, come rushing over, and would jump right into Honey's grasp, as he had leaned down, ready to take the action of affection to him.

They wouldn't talk, but there were a clear reason for that, as the colt eventually pulled back, and started to make signs with his hooves, whilst smiling. The two mares that had been walking with him, coming over, smiling saintly. Two locals this were, in fact. An accountant - Scribble Zero - and a tailor assistant - Snip Snap - that would wave at Honey, while he did his own hoof signs, to the colt. Although he were a bit slower, than the enthusiastic colt.

The talk seemed to go on the others too, as he pointed around, and it appeared that he were introduced to them. His eyes falling in awe on the dragon, slightly on Delilah, and then focused on Skittles. He'd then signal a few things to Honey, that'd make him blush up, and hastily reply.

"P-Please ah, handle yourselves at the receptionist. She will ah, h-help you along here. Dear Celestia...

And this is ah, Point Perfect. He used to be at the orphanage, before these nice mares adopted him, last month. He's ah, deaf, and can't read lips, so I am sorry if this ah, looks somewhat odd currently."

"Seems somewhat heartwarming to me. By all means, continue."

Lotus would chitter along, scratching the inside of her ears. The meaning? Nothing major. Just something along the lines of *That's kinda cool*.

EQ_Theta · November 5, 2022

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-11-04 at 7:37 AM, Blitz Boom said:

He were pondering this for a few minutes, before he heard the sound of familiar steps, following the doorbell going, and his ears perked. He'd scurry across the room, looking for the source, and rightfully so, he'd see Scarcity enter the bakery, and make her way to the back of the line, as were proper. She may think herself important, but some common decency should be followed. Besides, it gave her a chance to notice the available offerings, and make a decision.

Yet as she'd be noticed, so too would she bite note in him, and would let out a small, pearly laughter, then signal for the critter to come over. Something which he did, though jumped near the wall, to get there, to avoid confrontation with others. If they were okay seeing Munchkin here, he should be fine too, yes? He too were small, and hairy.

On the way there, he also noticed, that Scarcity were not alone. She had brought the filly along, who'd meet her little friend with hugs, soon as he came over.

"How delightful. I had wondered where you had gone off to, dearie. Having fun I assume?"

Hammond would nod, as he were in the grasp of Floral, who seemed all too pleased, to continue to give him hugs, before putting him up on her head.

Stiff Peaks tended to the few customers who came in and paid for their choices in bread, always maintaining her cheerful disposition. The locals who frequent her bakery knew her as the big and bubbly mare who ran the morning rush with ease, seemingly having the whole situation under control. Even today, that outlook was present on her face, more so now that she got her chance to meet and talk with Omen. Today was a far cry from their first interaction, one marked with confusion and uncertainty hidden behind her usual upbeat facade. Now, it was genuine delight, a big smile, softened with understanding and acceptance.

With Scarcity in her shop, the baker noticed the little ones scurrying about. Hammond was more noticeable, as he ran to the esteemed-looking guest and a little filly that accompanied her. Seemed like they were acquainted with each other. Most surprising of all was Munchkin’s behavior, as even she approached the filly and rubbed herself on her legs. That was usually a sign of affection, hinting that the cat might know this guest, especially when her purring is more audible this time around. Maybe there was more going on here…

“Welcome! Please have a look around and pick out what you like! I see Munchkin and her friend are familiar with you lot; guess she’s been busy making friends when she isn't around.”

On 2022-11-04 at 7:37 AM, Blitz Boom said:

What I do have, are known connections to make use of. I know the address of her brother, whom should be well able to tell where she is, as well as the whereabouts of Discord, who have shown to be able to call upon her. I also know several couriers to make use of, to get a message towards either, in case I am in a delicate situation. I can work on setting up other points of connection later, but for now at least, I believe those two avenues should suffice, yes?"

As his teachers had been so fond of saying: Having a plan B, were wise. Having a plan C through H, were professionalism. So while he needed to put a few in motion, he had already thought of several ways, and backup ways, that he might make use of. They wouldn't work if for instance, he got trapped, but he had a few ideas for that too. Yet that would depend on a few factors, that he still needed to explore properly.

Meanwhile, Omen would be halfway through her meal, and would lift her head from the bread, to address the others. She might not know much about curtsey, but she were certain that she should be looking at others, while she spoke to them.

"I do not mind, sending messages. It were what Master Discord made me do too.

If Master Discord, or brother calls for me, because he have something from you, Rosa, I can deliver them too. I know where everyone are. Except for brother, and his master. Brother have a strange gem with him. I could not sense him, when I saw him with it. I think his master have the same. She is very smart."

"And regrettably fast. A matter of days, and she already devised a method to keep you away, in case she requires privacy. I can imagine she made your brother try and track her at first, but still... What kind of gem were it, do you know?"

"Shiny."

“Yeah… I may have also known about Hammond’s gem since last night. He told me about how it worked, though it seems everyone here is already on the same page about that.”

“This is the first time I’m hearing about that, and you did say you ran into Hammond last night, then. Regardless, I think now would be a good time to know about our alternatives for contacting you, Rosa. The couriers you mentioned will definitely be useful in case we need to get in touch.”

“As for whatever else we have planned for today, I just remembered that I owe some folks for the stuff we brought here to decorate your home. I don’t want them to think I’ve neglected our trade, and I suppose those will have to double as an apology gift now. Maybe we could have a look around town and see what we could get? This might be a good time to gather some things for home.”

Lin had hoped to bring back something of value to the artisans and craftworkers back home, though having no knowledge about what goes on in the trade it’ll be difficult to narrow down her options for gifts that are of equal value to carved wood panels and little wooden figurines. Tools might be nice, and they are practical items that would see much use. However, it’ll be awkward to rely on the funds Omen is carrying around. Now would be a good time to take stock of the siblings’ finances, even if the bits they gathered were mostly picked up from the ground, or the water fountain in Canterlot’s town square in Sen’s case.

A quick trip around town may be in order, and they wouldn’t need to worry about making things difficult for Rosa’s new employers. There was very little chance of them being dragged out of town.

Catpone Cerberus · November 6, 2022

@Blitz Boom
Ruby didn't respond to Leviathan's response, but her expression signaled 'really?' in humorous manner at Leviathan's choice of word 'little'. She did of course know it didn't actually mean physical size, but she was the kind to pull humor from someone lot smaller than her calling her small in any context, be it actually funny or not, after all, Ruby wasn't exactly the grand comedian of all time, and lot of things she found amusing were somehow related to weakness or suffering of others.

For Leviathan's explanation, Ruby..actually listened? or at least she looked slightly less uninterested than usual, she still didn't look like she was interested per say, but she looked less like she was forced to listen, and while she still didn't say anything, seemingly listening was certainly a start. There was also something that Charir seemed to notice, as evidenced by him again looking at Ruby with slight curiosity when she wasn't looking at him, it seemed she was sending some mixed signals to Charir, and he wasn't really sure what it meant.

"Yes, it's also read from left to right, not that you can read anything from it at the moment." Ruby stated in matter-of-fact way "It's a part from the writings I found, about my kind's past, more specifically, it talks about elemental magic, it's not anything too helpful, as it's just general information, but I figured that if anyone found use out of it, that would be you." "Don't worry about damaging it, it's a copy I made, so it won't be lost forever if something happens, though I would appreciate you not losing it still." "For Charir I got two scrolls, one has everything for him to learn to read our language, and the other is for basics of this language with our language as the starting point, I concluded that while there is material for it, it will be simpler that after he learns how this language works, I...We, teach him the rest."

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

"Not as far as we know" Trox replied to the poison question, Chega also shrugged her shoulders, sure she wasn't an expert on the matter, but she too knew thing or two, and wasn't aware of any specifically effective toxin, but as a break from the usual agreement between the siblings, Sheska actually countered Trox's answer "It's not that simple, actually." "Generally speaking, there is no natural poison or toxin that would be more effective than others against our kind, we are not immune to anything per say, our bodies are just very effective at combating everything, but that doesn't mean there's nothing." "Synthetic toxins and poisons are always an option, be it magical or technological, though that would require biological knowledge about the target, in this case specific type of kobolds, that in this world would be hard to come by since our kind is still mostly isolated, especially with this little time," "There has also been a natural toxin that has been extra dangerous for our kind, or well, assumed to be natural, in short, there was an epidemic of specific parasite in the slave population generations before us, while the parasite itself wasn't that bad, it created toxin that while harmless to other creatures, was extremely dangerous to kobolds, though the reason is unknown, since us being slaves, nobody cared enough to look at it further than figuring out a way to stop their slaves from dying."

"I have few suggestions on what the substance could be on the blades, it could be synthetic poison made purposely against kobolds, a natural one similar to whatever that parasite created, a poison that has been somehow boosted in toxicity a lot, or something from outside Equestria that our bodies simply hasn't prepared for." "This of course is assuming that our killer knows anything about kobolds, and doesn't for example just assume we are smaller, wingless dragons, something that quite frankly is unlikely if we are targets just because we helped the ponies earlier, which means it could be just some poison that would have ended up being ineffective." while one should never underestimate their foe, they shouldn't overestimate them either, sure this one has been crafty, and knew enough to target Onache, but changelings were quite a lot more common here than kobolds.

After a moment Trox spoke again "What she said, and for your worry about Sheez, she didn't come to help when I was bleeding out on the ground with my limbs missing, nor did she do anything to help us out from the collapsed prison we were trapped in when we ended up here, so I doubt she will do much to help us with some random murderer."

GingerLightning · November 8, 2022

@Blitz Boom
"Are you recommending I have my wedding here?" Howl's brow furrowed. He looked around and grimaced slightly, he tried to be polite. "It is a kind offer, though I have my concerns."

"They are working on fixing it up real good. It also would save the time it would talk me to fly or walk to where the wedding would be held." Ginger piped up.

"Hm...Do you perhaps have a garden? A garden might be a decent venue... less eyesore holes... " He cleared his throat. "Not that I have any problem with holes, of course! it's just a wedding, no matter how small should certainly be fancy."

His wings buzzed as he chittered "I mean, just Imagine the look on my darling's face in a beautiful garden. Especially if it's full of humming birds. She absolutely adores the creatures. She always voiced how much she loved birds. She also loves such things as flowers. She is such a beautiful, colorful, free spirit of a mare. I feel like I glow when I'm with her. I had never met anyone who could make me feel like I could float through the air like a feather in the breeze. I haven't even felt a single pang of hunger since I met her, like she just radiates love and joy... I don't even have words to describe what it's like to have somepony like her. I want to give her the best I possibly can. "

"She's like a ray of sunshine, lighting up the world with her glow. It's like she was made to be perfect."He sighed dreamily.

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