open Casual stroll

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-28 at 6:42 AM, Blitz Boom said:

 

"Many things, I'm afraid. The world is vast, and many beings throughout the ages, have sought to suppress the mind, to make for better servants. Or to make them easier hosts, for themselves, or other minds of their choosing. Thus, it is hard to say exactly who or what, it is that have caused you such troubles. Could be anything from the long deceased Thal'nahry of the pale steppes, to a monster of our own culture. An Oni."

The elder had waited for them to finish speaking between one another, and observed them as they did so. It were both informative, as well as rather rude, if he had interrupted. Though sadly when it were his turn to speak, he did not have enlightened news. Guesses yes, but nothing definitive.

"I doubt it to be an Oni though. They wouldn't dare thread this close upon our home."

“I… am not certain what all this means, but if I have something has taken over me before… ugh, no. I cannot think of this now, not when the pain comes back worse than the last time. Remembering… it may be too much.”

“We have to help you remember, Lin. There’s a lot more riding on this, and it would help if you can remember what happened. All this was very recent, and whatever took its hold on you intended a warning. There are folks back home who are counting on you, like our village elder, Ghilan.”

Lin hesitated, looking away from her brother and Omen in contemplation. She winced from the pain that was reverberating through her head as she clutched it with one claw, but Sen spoke with conviction. He was on to something, even if she couldn’t say what. What Elder Gao and Head Nurse Lao spoke of were more unknowns, but it terrified Lin; the thought that anything could prey on her made her shudder, and she wasn’t keen on finding out more. However, she would at least want to try and learn more about recent events, so she turned to Omen now. 

”I... know you told me of what we went through together, Omen, but can you tell me more? Do you know our elder? And what is he asking of me... or us? I think there is something to this, but I am not sure.”

She and her brother would follow wherever the elder and nurse would take them, pathways past the beautiful scenery and the spirits that have come to see them as odd visitors. It was a surreal experience, but all of this felt like some attempt at trying to get Lin to remember who she was back then. It wasn’t quite like this, but being away from the village to see things never thought possible… was something that began to jog Lin’s memories or form new ones in place of the old. Sen was just as interested in the spirits, though it was more about them being a figment of nature and if longma beliefs of nature were similar. After all, having established rapport with Head Nurse Lao concerning the kitsune’s beliefs and leadership showed they had more similarities than expected. 

For now, the two would settle with meeting with Elder Zhao, a curious creature who had an interesting undertaking with cards. Sen didn’t quite get this based on his experiences in Equestria, but that was neither here nor there. Hearing her speak made things clear: she wasn’t one to trifle with, someone who didn’t want her time wasted. It seemed like they had to get straight to the point, and once addressed Lin paused, and looked at her brother for a moment. It wasn’t like her to be overly cautious when speaking to others, especially when her previous self was more readily capable of speaking for herself. Sen nodded in reassurance, standing by in case he needed to come in and help. 

On 2023-09-28 at 6:42 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"That old fool aside. I am Elder Zhao. I assume you are the one in need of relief? If so, I need details. Tell me what you know. No matter how minute or pointless it might seem to you."

She would look at Lin directly as she said this, and if Sen or another, tried to speak up on her behalf, the kitsune would raise a paw surprisingly swiftly, and run her index claw sharpy over the air. The one speaking, would then find their voice silenced. Yes, even Omen, if she tried to say something in return. She wanted to hear from Lin, not them. Not at first at least.

They'd here get to see that not all the elders were as seemingly carefree as Gao. Zhao were a good deal more direct, and not interested in frivolous nonsense.

“Elder Zhao, my name is Lin, and what Elder Gao said is true. My memories… I think they’ve been tampered with or being kept from me. What my brother and Omen said earlier, it’s like something is trying to stop me from remembering, instead making me recall something different. Sen and Omen say my past is different, that we experienced things that I didn’t think were true or possible, and I am not sure what to believe. When I think I’m close, this… throbbing pain… it rushes in. It feels like claws squeezing my head; at other times, it’s sharper, like a stinging whip. Whatever took hold of me… I think it’s still here, worming its way into my mind. I… ugh, nggrhh.”

”I... I’m sorry if this is not getting us closer to finding a solution. This gap in my memories... I was told it happened recently, but I can recall nothing about it. Sen and Omen said something or someone made me its mouthpiece and left a warning. Maybe they can say more? But whatever it is you need me to do to help, you need only say it, and I will try to help." 

Attempting to remember more brought about that pain, leaving Lin clutching her head in an attempt to control it. Sen stood by and held his sister, letting her lean on him if necessary, though there were hints that the old Lin was fighting to stop herself from feeling weak. Even at its worst, she wouldn’t let whatever was exerting its influence on her take hold. She’d try to avoid attempting to remember more, but she was certain some events from her past didn’t line up with what Sen and Omen said. For now, she held her tongue to see what Elder Zhao would have to say.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

4 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“I… am not certain what all this means, but if I have something has taken over me before… ugh, no. I cannot think of this now, not when the pain comes back worse than the last time. Remembering… it may be too much.”

“We have to help you remember, Lin. There’s a lot more riding on this, and it would help if you can remember what happened. All this was very recent, and whatever took its hold on you intended a warning. There are folks back home who are counting on you, like our village elder, Ghilan.”

"It simply means there are many creatures that may have part in your affliction, but I am not able to say which one currently. Or if you mean what an Oni were, then I sadly cannot tell you details. I can only say that it is a malevolent creature, that have a connection to us kitsune. The details mustn't be shared beyond the elders. That said, it is doubtful that is what ails you. It would much prefer taking your mind, than your memories."

Perhaps not the most comforting thing to say, but it were all that he were at liberty to say. Even to outsiders, who wouldn't be as affect by what tales he could tell, were not at liberty to hear what he knew, of the Oni. Though he could say that he agreed with Nurse Lao. It were not likely to be one of them. Yet he had mentioned them as an example, as he were prone to do, when faced with a question like that. Their magic still fit one, who would and could, meddle with your head.

4 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

”I... know you told me of what we went through together, Omen, but can you tell me more? Do you know our elder? And what is he asking of me... or us? I think there is something to this, but I am not sure.”

"Mother saw you, when you were broken. She gave you, some of what makes us. It helped, but you were not fixed. That is when we took you to the strange well, and when we got there, you had to go into it alone. When you came back, you were whole again. Longma, and Ki'Nathar. That is why I called you sister. You are family to Sen, and to me. Sen is too. Mother accepted you both, as her children.

She does not do that with outsiders normally. But you were not normal. Even before, she came to you, more than most who tries to call for her.

Other things... We played a game, at the fair we were at. We had to catch fish. I won, but you caught many, with the stick and string.

...When Rosa came along with us, he started to teach us things. Like trying to show Sen how to do a headlock. It seemed to make Sen struggle. He did more things though. Like showing us things to do, and say many big words, that you said helped you and Sen, understand how the world worked better. He is smart. Had he magic, he would have been a good master. Like Scarcity, with Hammond."

The nurse would halt at that moment, and a few ears would perk in surprise as they passed them, having heard a snippet of things in their mind.

"Wait, Scarcity? As in an absence of things, or as in the mare from Canterlot?"

"Scarcity is a mare in Canterlot, yes. You know her?"

"I do. She saved a half dozen kits from poachers, and made sure they got home safe. They've told a lot about how nice she were to them, to try and help them be comfortable, until she could get them back to our villages. Didn't ask for a thing, not even compensation for her troubles. She's one of a short list of ponies, that have an open invitation to visit all of our villages. Is she doing well?"

"Ponies are doing well when they smile, yes? Then she is."

It was a satisfying answer, and the nurse would keep moving. Scarcity were a pony that she personally, would offer her home to, if ever she came for a time, and needed lodging, and she did not make that offer to really anyone, outside of close family. But one who had taken such tremendous care of their young - several of whom were in her school - were a creature that she'd show the outmost hospitality towards, without hesitation. Though it were likely not needed. The elders would likely have her staying in one of the guest rooms, at their hall. She were a respectful pony in their evaluation, and a smart one too. A few of the elders would enjoy having some hours to simply sit and talk with her, and get to learn more.

"Now other things to tell...You went back home, to find something for Rosa, when we got to his new home. A carved wall art thing. He then helped find some tools that you could make into sets, to bring back to them. The youngest one we went to, took us to the back of his shop, and I opened a gate to a pony school, so he could talk with foals. I think he did not mind, because he showed them some art things, and there were no yelling.

When it were done, we went outside back in your home, and the huntmaster assistant were there. Feng. He attacked you, and made fun of you, then demanded I answer his questions. I refused, and told him if he tried to touch you again, I would send him into the forest."

Nurse Lao would chuckle a bit at that. She didn't know the finer details on this whole story, but threatening to send someone into the woods, were a move that she had used a few times in her time as well. Followed up on too, in fact. It was a good, passive aggressive prank, long as they were sent somewhere relatively safe. Right into a bear cave, were less than ideal.

5 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Elder Zhao, my name is Lin, and what Elder Gao said is true. My memories… I think they’ve been tampered with or being kept from me. What my brother and Omen said earlier, it’s like something is trying to stop me from remembering, instead making me recall something different. Sen and Omen say my past is different, that we experienced things that I didn’t think were true or possible, and I am not sure what to believe. When I think I’m close, this… throbbing pain… it rushes in. It feels like claws squeezing my head; at other times, it’s sharper, like a stinging whip. Whatever took hold of me… I think it’s still here, worming its way into my mind. I… ugh, nggrhh.”

”I... I’m sorry if this is not getting us closer to finding a solution. This gap in my memories... I was told it happened recently, but I can recall nothing about it. Sen and Omen said something or someone made me its mouthpiece and left a warning. Maybe they can say more? But whatever it is you need me to do to help, you need only say it, and I will try to help." 

Attempting to remember more brought about that pain, leaving Lin clutching her head in an attempt to control it. Sen stood by and held his sister, letting her lean on him if necessary, though there were hints that the old Lin was fighting to stop herself from feeling weak. Even at its worst, she wouldn’t let whatever was exerting its influence on her take hold. She’d try to avoid attempting to remember more, but she was certain some events from her past didn’t line up with what Sen and Omen said. For now, she held her tongue to see what Elder Zhao would have to say.

"A mind parasite that's trying to override you then. A crude, primitive form of mind control. Amateurish and vicious in nature, as well as ideally fixable. Hold still."

She'd go and put her paw on Lin's forehead, and just stand gazing into Lin's eyes.

She should be able to feel something soon after, more than likely, as Elder Zhao were scanning her mind with her magic. The magic did not hurt. Quite frankly, it were rather subtle, and not noticeable by most. But then, she were rummaging around in there, looking what were there. Not to unlock it currently, just as an observer. A fog-made fox, jumping around the landscape of her mind, seeing if there were somethin in here. A blockage or a presence, she'd take notice regardless, and withdraw once as she had her confirmation about whatever this were an active thing, or just some sort of lock mechanism.

"I see. And you two are close to her, yes?"

She'd look towards Omen and Sen, as her paw left Lin's head.

"She is our sister. Sen have always been her brother, and we became family when she were repaired, and mother used some of what makes us, to patch her up."

"So familial ties, as well as close bonds? Yes, you should do nicely.

I can fix this, but there are risks involved that you need be aware of.

You would be connected to her mind, and sent right into her mindscape. You then need to find and handle the blockage, so that her old memories can return. You will be mentally anchored, but if you get lost in her head, you might not return, and death would kill your mind. You would need to act wisely, even with assistance, and not tally.

This is a serious matter. One that requires a level of -I said don't touch that, Gao!"

She didn't even turn. She could just feel her magic getting meddled with, as Gao were trying to unravel a corner, to let a little wind in potentially. Possibly just enough to knock down the house of cards, though he'd have to stop as he were called out. It were less fun, when it wasn't a surprise.

"Now as I were saying, it is risky, and requires a level of trust on all levels. The more you trust one another, the easier it will be to connect you. Nurse Lao? We'd need you to monitor vitals, just in case."

"Of course, Elder Zhao. When would you need me?"

"Ideally within the next few minutes. The longer we wait, the more Lin may lose her mind, or worse. The matter is easier solved, the faster it is addressed.

But all need to be ready. So are you all willing to show faith in one another, and trust that you will have one another's back in this?"

"Yes. I will do anything I can, to help sister."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom@StrawberryMilk Simp
Since there was an interruption in form of Stargazer, the kobolds didn't continue on the conversation much, however, Trox did conclude by addressing Light one more time "And this is why we won't bother with deeper talk about gods and such, either what you say is true, at which point it would be pointless to worry about it since we can do nothing about it, or it's bunch of nonsense, at which point it is pointless to worry about it, because it isn't real." "Not to mention the paradox of going against something that decides everything, since that would mean that the thing decides you to go against it, like it would decide me to be able to acknowledge that decision like I do now." And if one was to be able to defeat such a being, that would mean that the being decides for itself to be defeated. Or to use Light's own terminology, for a writer's creation to challenge the writer and defeat them, the writer must have wrote its will to be challenged and defeated, and thus by challenging fate, the creation fulfills its predetermined fate. And thus, it is pointless to worry about it. 

Sheska was the one to address Stargazer, now broken away from Chega's hug, speaking with the usual tone hinting at her dislike of guards "News, questions, a lunch break, or an arrest warrant?" she looked at Stargazer "I take it from the lack of backup that it's not the last one."  they couldn't help the suspicion, it could be the kindest creature in the universe, but the moment they put on the ruler's uniform, the siblings didn't let their guard down. 

------------------------------------------
Ruby concluded the topic of Homelands with  "And that there is why our kind, and the Homelands, is so unknown by everyone else, the few explorers that manage to make their way in, rarely make it back out, or survive long enough to find out anything in the first place."  Often stories of places where nobody returned from cause more creatures seek them out, but the Homelands appearance from outside made it seem rather uninviting to explore, since it seemed like volcanic, hard to navigate place, since there was a very boring, logical reason for nobody coming back. Also, since so few ever came back, nobody really knew the place existed, with 'landmass somewhere here' wasn't a lot to go by, and with things like the old coins from there that Ruby had bought before ever meeting Leviathan, being 'unknown in origin', some probably didn't even believe the stories of anything being there due to lack of real evidence. 

"We can go." she simply stated, gesturing Leviathan towards the door, before continuing with slightly humorous tone "You know, for someone going around with a dragon who likes sleeping in the deepest depths of caves, you really don't like being inside." "Though I guess I'm also a dragon who doesn't like fish, yet I go around with a half-fish." she gave Leviathan an almost playful grin as she said it, was it funny? probably not, in fact, it could have been even insulting towards Leviathan, but Ruby wasn't exactly known for being considerate, nor was she experienced with joking around, so she didn't really have understanding of the line between friendly teasing and actual insults, other than the tone used. In fact, to her, saying what she did was also a compliment, since to her, tolerating someone from a group she usually looked down upon, was by itself a compliment from her. 

Though she did realize something else about it  "No, wait, that doesn't work, it implies that I want to eat you, which isn't the case." though she couldn't lie that she was curious if sea-based dragons tasted like fish. 

 

 

 

 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

 @Catpone Cerberus @Blitz Boom

" hehe true... BUT if they were able to write it... if they can't... then it's our win." He smirks.

" for example... it was not the will of order for me to live peacefully and happy here... and as of now... i know that, that bastard is trying to find a way to ruin mine. But because there are multiple writers in this world, all of them cant freely do what they want, since they themselves fight to write." He shrugged.

 

46 minutes ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

was the one to address Stargazer, now broken away from Chega's hug, speaking with the usual tone hinting at her dislike of guards "News, questions, a lunch break, or an arrest warrant?" she looked at Stargazer "I take it from the lack of backup that it's not the last one."  they couldn't help the suspicion, it could be the kindest creature in the universe, but the moment they put on the ruler's uniform, the siblings didn't let their guard down.

He watched Sheska's displeased attitude towards the guard.

" no need to be harsh Sheska. Who knows? Maybe he'd give us a free drink to lighten the mood here." 

 

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-10-01 at 5:44 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Mother saw you, when you were broken. She gave you, some of what makes us. It helped, but you were not fixed. That is when we took you to the strange well, and when we got there, you had to go into it alone. When you came back, you were whole again. Longma, and Ki'Nathar. That is why I called you sister. You are family to Sen, and to me. Sen is too. Mother accepted you both, as her children.

She does not do that with outsiders normally. But you were not normal. Even before, she came to you, more than most who tries to call for her.

Other things... We played a game, at the fair we were at. We had to catch fish. I won, but you caught many, with the stick and string.

...When Rosa came along with us, he started to teach us things. Like trying to show Sen how to do a headlock. It seemed to make Sen struggle. He did more things though. Like showing us things to do, and say many big words, that you said helped you and Sen, understand how the world worked better. He is smart. Had he magic, he would have been a good master. Like Scarcity, with Hammond."

“Broken? This Mother… took me in as family? But, what about mother and father? I… I’m sorry if I do not wholly believe what you say; it’s just hard to know what is real and what is not.” 

”It’s all right, sister. Trust Omen and what she says. She speaks the truth.”

Lin clutched her head, as expected from the pain that surged within her whenever she attempted to remember, though something about that caused her more distress. If she were taken in, what would that say about her parents? Were they still around? Two different accounts, but she wasn’t sure what to make of the discrepancy in details, and it didn’t help that her head was being squeezed by whatever it was that took hold of her. Hearing about meeting and being friendly with creatures outside the village like Rosa didn’t seem so farfetched compared to being “fixed.” It certainly explained why she was physically different, leaving her wondering just how true Omen’s words were. Though difficult, that trust may come into play when needed most, and so she'd nod to the Ki'Nathar in acknowledgment. 

Talk of Scarcity got Sen interested. Her saving kits and asking nothing in return? Maybe he wasn’t entirely convinced that she could be doing so wholly altruistic reasons, but he understood that there may be more good than bad in the mare. Someone wielding influence would benefit from having access to the kitsune villages. What she’d do with that kind of boon was something Sen couldn’t fathom, but he’d rather not go into the minutiae or second-guess the mare. He wasn’t on her bad side, which was good enough for him. 

On 2023-10-01 at 5:44 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"A mind parasite that's trying to override you then. A crude, primitive form of mind control. Amateurish and vicious in nature, as well as ideally fixable. Hold still."

She'd go and put her paw on Lin's forehead, and just stand gazing into Lin's eyes.

She should be able to feel something soon after, more than likely, as Elder Zhao were scanning her mind with her magic. The magic did not hurt. Quite frankly, it were rather subtle, and not noticeable by most. But then, she were rummaging around in there, looking what were there. Not to unlock it currently, just as an observer. A fog-made fox, jumping around the landscape of her mind, seeing if there were somethin in here. A blockage or a presence, she'd take notice regardless, and withdraw once as she had her confirmation about whatever this were an active thing, or just some sort of lock mechanism.

Lin would stand still while Elder Zhao probed the recesses of her mind, feeling some kind of tingle with the magic he utilized. It was bizarre, both to her and Sen, to know such magic exists. With certainty, it might feel different from having someone actively control their actions, leaving their conscious minds trapped within their bodies, as Sen could still remember from a terrible past experience. Fortunately, this one was different and preferable.

The actual procedure to remove whatever was blocking Lin’s memories was something he’d never expected to do. Going into her mind and removing the block sounded so straightforward, yet it was bizarre all the same. Sen and Omen were warned that they may not return if they didn’t handle this right, but they did, it’ll be one weight greatly lifted off his chest. It was the last part that Sen gulped: trust. It wasn’t that he didn’t have trust in Omen and Lin, but he didn’t trust himself to follow through, even if he verbally stated how he’d try to do better.

Sadly, this was no time for second-guessing, not when this could help Lin. It seemed like there was no other choice. 

On 2023-10-01 at 5:44 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Now as I were saying, it is risky, and requires a level of trust on all levels. The more you trust one another, the easier it will be to connect you. Nurse Lao? We'd need you to monitor vitals, just in case."

"Of course, Elder Zhao. When would you need me?"

"Ideally within the next few minutes. The longer we wait, the more Lin may lose her mind, or worse. The matter is easier solved, the faster it is addressed.

But all need to be ready. So are you all willing to show faith in one another, and trust that you will have one another's back in this?"

"Yes. I will do anything I can, to help sister."

“Omen speaks for me, too. Whatever it takes to help and get the Lin we know back, we will do. Is there more you can tell us about this mindscape and what we can expect to see, Elder Zhao?”

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

(used the wrong color last time)

"I cannot tell you what you will see.

The mind is vast expanse, formed around thoughts, experiences, and dreams. Where ones mind might seem a fortress with sprawling life around, to others it is a chaotic mess of floating platforms and broken hope. It depends much on the one whom you will examine.

What I can tell you, is that some themes are recurring, in most minds. One being memories. You will find them as some sort of stationary object most of the time. A statue, a flower, crystals shapes into a glimmer of that memory- There are many things, but going in contact with them, will often cause you to see that memory, as if you stood in their place. This is why trust is important, as doing what you will have to do, are bound to make you see things. Some of them very private. Even if you do all you can to avoid looking, it is inevitable that you will see some things.

In cases like this, some of those memories will be false, as it sounds like they are being slowly replaced. They will look correct, but being close as you are, you should be able to tell that they have falsehoods. You can't change them though, as you view them. For that, you will need to reach the blockage, which is in the innermost sanctum I would think, if things ae being replaced. Think of it as your center of cognition, where everything is centered around. It will be hard to avoid biting notice in, once you get an idea of the layout.

The mind tends to also change around, but I am going to force stability, so that you can work in there. Things will still change around, to a certain extend, but he ground should not vanish under your paws.

The subconsciousness does also tend to cause certain beings to exist in there, but as she is being overtaken, I can imagine what ones might be there, would not be keen on attacking you, once they were aware you were there to help solve the issue. If not helped, they will change, and become polluted by the presence as well, so work with them if you see them. Though expect them thinking you part of the problem, rather than solution at first.

Also be aware that you will have no magic, or abilities in there. You are not experienced dream wardens, or aware of my kinds of skillsets, so you will have only your physique to rely on.

Now, to some uncommon issues, that is more specific. And follow me as I say this."

Elder Zhao would start to walk towards a door in the other end up the room, and would slide it open to reveal a pathway, much like the one they had wandered before. This one would lead them further upwards, with more spirits observing them as they passed.

"Doing to the attack, there will either be a passive, or an active enemy in there. If it is passive, assume it to be latched on to the central core. If more active though, it will at least partially, be out and will actively try and hamper you. As it is changing memories, I will assume an active one. Try to defend yourself, and do not let it lure you off the path, into the dark recesses of her mind. You are unlikely to return, if you go there. Stay focused, as you will need to clear out the problem from the core.

Also due to the changes, the landscape is possibly disturbing and worrying to look at. Try not to bite notice in that, it is merely the sign of the infection. I've seen truly broken minds before, and this case does not seem even remotely close to that, to a degree where widespread, severe damage are permanent.

Furthermore, I don't need distractions. So from this point forward, do not use magic, or any abilities in the real world. Do as I say, and things will go smoother. Am I making myself clear?"

"Yes."

"Good."

She assumed Sen were agreeing too, considering his earlier mention of being on Omen's side, so she would continue talking, as they approached a large, onyx-colored door in the distance.

"Now then, as she is infected with another presence, you may at times need to repair certain memories, to gain traction. Like I said, if you know her well, as I would assume you do, judging by your connections, you might find your own memories struggle against these. How to interfere and correct them, varies by individual, so I can't tell you how to change them back, but you will see for yourself, if it is needed. Some areas might not be unlocked, lest you do this, but it is impossible to say at this point."

They'd get to the door, and she'd push it open, revealing a large, brooding room, with lit candles floating around, and a bit of distance from them, a central point, where the floor were inscribed with runes glowing a faint red, centered around a platform, where one could sit.

"Now we still need to go over how to solve the core issue, when you get there. Walk towards the platform, while I take a moment to catch my breath. I am not as young as I once were."

She'd let them pass, and soon as they would take a few steps into the room, something would impact them in the back of their head, and all of them would fall unconscious.

Sen would wake up, to find himself in Lin's mindscape, all alone. As this were Lin's mind, she could not traverse it the same, though she'd be aware of what would happen here, as things would proceed. She simply would just be unable to act.

As for how it looked? Hard to say. It were Lin's head, so it were likely inspired to some extend, by dream and memories, false and real alike. So it likely had a forested theme.

(Get creative. If not, I will make something up next post)

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

"After a day like today, I think everypony could use a drink. But I am not giving in to such urges. I have a daughter to think about."

She were partially why he did not drink a lot. A glass here and there perhaps, but nothing serious, and never on the job. He didn't want to end up getting inebriated, and setting a bad example for Jelly. He might not have planned to become a father, the way that things had turned out, but he had dedicated himself to becoming the best he could be, once she were born. He often questioned if he succeed in that, but that were besides the point. Him being drunk, were not acceptable for neither his job, nor her.

That said, he could use a strong coffee right about now...

As if she read his mind, Bubble Tea would come around with a tray that included a strong pot of warm coffee. Nothing fancy, like at Sloppy Joe's, but it had cream and sugar on the side if needed, so it were the essential experience.

He'd thank her, and she would tell him that he had helped enough, that she owed him at least this. Then she'd return to the front. There were still plenty for her to do here today, but she had seen him wander in, and seen how he looked even more tired than usual, and assumed he would need this. She had added some extra cups for the others, though if Light were wise, he would discourage Shark from drinking the coffee. Getting her hyped up on caffeine, were probably a bad idea.

"A fortuitous development. And no, I am not coming to serve arrest papers to anypony. With all due respect, you all seem significantly dangerous, and I do not think it would be safe for a single guard to attempt dealing with a task like that."

Granted, Light did not look like much, but Stargazer were not sure if his first impression of his physique were enough. There were something off about him, that he couldn't put his hoof on. Besides, his marefriend seemed protective. Granted, she were currently sniffing the air, and looking like she were confused by all the smells, but he had seen her when the mutant frogs had hit the town. He knew better than to think her harmless.

"No, I simply came to give you a brief update. As you were there at the start, it seemed prudent to do so, with what information I do have.

For a start, the elder couple you found, have been properly stabilized, and are expected to make a full recovery. Their children wanted me to pass along their gratitude for your help.

As for other hospital related news, the changeling queen are expected to pull through, but I were told the doctor are uncertain if any permanent damage were caused yet. We won't know until she wakes up, but a changeling did barge in and have since refused to leave her bedside, claiming to be her drone. So you may be relieved to know that she is not alone at least.

The other guards and I are doing our best to try and clarify things for the populace, and ensuring peace and calm with return. Give it an hour or so, and things should begin to return to normal, in large parts due to your effort. And related to that, the mayor would like to extend her gratitude towards you all, and hope that you will meet her tomorrow at her office, that she might say so in person.

I was hoping to meet the kitsune that helped too, but it appears she have departed already. But if you get the chance, please extend our thanks to her as well."

He's say this towards the kits, who'd nod, whilst Stargazer poured a cup of coffee, and took a good, big mouthful. They would make sure that their great grandmother would know that her help were appreciated. It would be good for her, to know that Ponyville were not filled with ungrateful ponies.

"Might I trouble asking what exactly did happen though? I have been told the enemy were pulled into a scroll of sorts, but that sounds odd. I was hoping that perhaps you would be able to tell me specifics? Even if brief, it would help me to finish my report."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2023-10-01 at 1:40 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby concluded the topic of Homelands with  "And that there is why our kind, and the Homelands, is so unknown by everyone else, the few explorers that manage to make their way in, rarely make it back out, or survive long enough to find out anything in the first place."

"Ah yes, the best kind of security system: Missing bodies and common sense. The Dragon Isles used to have that several thousand years ago too, until the tentative peace agreements. Still not seen as a smart move to travel there though, unless you're a dragon. Less murder, and more "beating you and tossing you out" sort of thing, though even the beating up part, is probably gonna halt soon, now that the princess and dragon lord is getting so chummy. Strange times, but hey, we'll see what happens.

Maybe it'll be like that ornery dragon scholar I ran into once yapped about, and ponies and dragons will live harmoniously as one. I still think her books were a bunch of hooey, but eh, whatever. Ancient history like that ain't that important."

Frankly she got bored listening to the dragoness, and she in turn, got clearly annoyed by Leviathan and her attitude. Earth dragons sometimes. So serious, and devoid of fun. And then a book worm on top of that? What a letdown. Though she did have some pretty nice geomancy skills. Leviathan would concede on that point.

On 2023-10-01 at 1:40 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"We can go." she simply stated, gesturing Leviathan towards the door, before continuing with slightly humorous tone "You know, for someone going around with a dragon who likes sleeping in the deepest depths of caves, you really don't like being inside." "Though I guess I'm also a dragon who doesn't like fish, yet I go around with a half-fish." she gave Leviathan an almost playful grin as she said it, was it funny? probably not, in fact, it could have been even insulting towards Leviathan, but Ruby wasn't exactly known for being considerate, nor was she experienced with joking around, so she didn't really have understanding of the line between friendly teasing and actual insults, other than the tone used. In fact, to her, saying what she did was also a compliment, since to her, tolerating someone from a group she usually looked down upon, was by itself a compliment from her. 

Though she did realize something else about it  "No, wait, that doesn't work, it implies that I want to eat you, which isn't the case." though she couldn't lie that she was curious if sea-based dragons tasted like fish. 

Finally, fresh air once again. Give her the vast open sky and ocean any day, over an enclosed house. Felt way too small to stay inside for too long. Especially without open windows letting the sun in. Wasn't like she were claustrophobic or anything, but it felt stifling and unnatural to her.

At the comment of her being a half fish, Leviathan would pull her tongue on Ruby, and take to the skies. A half meter up, but still, and flew a couple of rounds around Ruby, and subsequently giggled as her comment apparently came back to bite her in the rear. She'd bit enough, and would stop flying around, then lean in close to Ruby and almost cooing a response.

"So tasty you just wanna eat me up, hm? My my Ruby, I didn't know I had that effect on you."

Her eyes shone with mischief as she said this, and flickered her tongue slowly, clearly messing with Ruby. Though she should probably get out of it, before the dragon in disguise would actually try and take a bite out of her, in retaliation. Though she couldn't help but chuckle a little first, before the words followed.

"Seriously, I wouldn't try. A hydra once chomped down on me as I passed by, and she spit me out, before I even got the chance to fry her from the inside. She barely even scraped me down the leg. I gotta assume I tasted rancid. Not a big surprise I suppose, most of the tasty things in the ocean, have some fat to help them with the temperatures, but water aligned dragons tends to just be mean, lean, ocean machines. And air aligned ones are light on meat. I guess I got the worst from both worlds.

Sea serpents are pretty good though. Some nice meat on those."

Were she telling the truth, or lying to avoid her kind getting eaten? Who knew, she wasn't gonna tell. She'd rather they got on their way, and tried to avoid potentially consider herself as part of the menu.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

 @Catpone Cerberus @Blitz Boom

" more details? If you want more details than you already have, its best you talked to the elder kitsune, which has already left. As for the young ones... they might give more details than us... but dont get your hopes up."

( did he introduce himself to light already? If he did please forget this following line.)

"  by the way...who are you again?"

Hed grab a bit of the coffee, while cautioning Shark to try it, but not too much.

" shark, take only but a sip. This gives enormous amount of hyper energy... you know pinkie pie right... youll bee like her if you didnt control the intake of your coffee."

Hed return his focus to the guard.

" im quite interested on the changeling queen though. Who is it? What happened to her? Can we visit her?" He questioned. Then regret crawled on his back.

[Rising Dusk 27,511]

@Blitz Boom

The family finally departed the cozy resting room.  They bid their temporary farewells to Caramel, leaving Will-O to her rest of course.  They'd be traveling to Equestria together after all.  The first archons to bridge the newfound meetings of their two lands.  Time was ticking along, the events were soon upon them to end the visit of the land's savor.  At least in the official capacity he were in now.  Getting Caramel, Lily and Will-O set up with their new lives, a long list to do.  Not counting how long before Necrotic made his own journey to the land of light to represent Harrowmark.  Deflecting to the royals for his introduction hardly seemed to be the likely case.  Rising could already feel he'd be drag into as an escort of some kind.  Not that he minded of course.  The detective could navigate Canterlot well enough, but Manehatten had more to offer in getting to know the more casual nature of Equestria.

They followed their escort to the grand theater of Harrowmark, taken up to a private balcony.  Equestria theaters had similar such designs, a common trend from the ancient world that must have carried over into both their lands, possibly even more.  They took their seats and joined the Queen and her husband.  The small group for a private performance.  Apparently they were all waiting on the family as they had only a brief moment to bow their greetings to royalty and adjust themselves to the seats before the music that rang the start of the performance.

The play was a Tragedy, in genre, of a good production value, fitting the royal theater they now were seated in.  Loss, love, heroism and a dying legacy.  Not something they would find in Equestria, even with Manehatten's broad reach and love for theater in of itself.  Their style of special effects were different than those employed in their own land.  The magic used, a different visual available to Rising if not all that noticed by the rest of the family.  It were an hour long and the family were completely engrossed.  The greatest of reactions coming from the pony that had been waiting for this event since it were first mentioned.  Grace was absorbed.  Wings twitching in rhythm to the higher moments.  Star were more interested in the visual story telling of the history he'd learned not long ago.  Tears welled in their mother's eyes to the end of the radiant queen.  The family joined in the applause as the actors returned to the stage to bow the end of their performance.  Even go so far as to raise from their seats and give them a standing ovation, were such a thing a Harrowmark tradition or even lost upon them.

"Ho ho ho!  Bravo, bravo!" the family patriarch called from the balcony.   "Truly wonderful," she expressed, gently dabbing the moisture from the corner of her eyes.  Grace had finally found something bright that offered a flicker of light in the darkness of her opinion in this land.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-10-04 at 5:43 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Also due to the changes, the landscape is possibly disturbing and worrying to look at. Try not to bite notice in that, it is merely the sign of the infection. I've seen truly broken minds before, and this case does not seem even remotely close to that, to a degree where widespread, severe damage are permanent.

Furthermore, I don't need distractions. So from this point forward, do not use magic, or any abilities in the real world. Do as I say, and things will go smoother. Am I making myself clear?"

"Yes."

"Good."

She assumed Sen were agreeing too, considering his earlier mention of being on Omen's side, so she would continue talking, as they approached a large, onyx-colored door in the distance.

"Now then, as she is infected with another presence, you may at times need to repair certain memories, to gain traction. Like I said, if you know her well, as I would assume you do, judging by your connections, you might find your own memories struggle against these. How to interfere and correct them, varies by individual, so I can't tell you how to change them back, but you will see for yourself, if it is needed. Some areas might not be unlocked, lest you do this, but it is impossible to say at this point."

“I understand, Elder Zhao. We can’t use magic, and we have to stay focused. I don’t know what more to expect from Lin’s mind, but if you say it isn’t close to being truly broken, I suppose that is a good start already. Repairing shared memories may not be the biggest concern; I can only hope those that I have no knowledge of are intact because I wouldn’t know where to begin fixing them.”

Elder Zhao said a mouthful and then some, but the idea seemed straightforward enough: fix memories to proceed. Having to fend off whatever else may be in Lin’s head was another matter; however, the longma could only hope that his physical skill set was enough. A headlock to knock some creature out may be needed, and Sen smiled to himself with the notion that he’d very likely put that lesson to the test. It’ll be something to tell Rosa about when they next meet.

For now, the focus will need to be on Lin’s well-being and navigating this mindscape. The longma followed the elder where they needed to go, further upward and into a dark room illuminated fairly by candlelight. This was a rather ominous sight, but the kitsune hadn’t given Sen a reason to doubt them, and so he continued onward, just as the elder instructed. A swift blow to the head and the longma fell flat on the ground, waking up to the mindscape he was told about.

The path didn’t appear to be straightforward, and navigation would be complicated. Sen awoke to the sight of what appeared to be floating islands populated by small patches of forest, though some had traditional huts or modern homes or large concrete buildings of places like Canterlot. Trees hung low over his head, planted upside down, and what might be a sun or moon was clearly below him. It was all a shattered landscape among a vast and dark sea of stars, but Sen could see red, jagged shards looming in the distance, connecting these disparate planes with a strange pulsating tentacle-like web. It was a likely sign that whatever was in the middle was the source of the blockage and what influenced his sister’s memories, with the modern-looking locales having larger organic-looking masses over them.

Sen would first encounter a simple gem shard jutting from the ground, likely an object that housed a memory of Lin’s. He’d consider touching the shard, but it may not be safe for now, especially if he might end up tampering with a memory unfamiliar to him. There was a life his sister led while separated, one he never had a chance to learn about from her aside from brief mentions. Without a clear path forward and knowledge of the rules of this place, traversal may mean touching this shard and repairing the memory contained within. He would need to be sure and figured it was best to not go into this alone.

“Omen? Where are you? Can you hear me?” Sen called out, his voice echoing into the distance. He’d first make sure Omen was safe and in an area he could identify. If they were on separate islands, they could try linking up and make traversal less complicated for themselves. “If you’re out there, I’m on an island with a crystal poking out from the ground. It might be the same on your end and elsewhere.”

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

He wouldn't be able to see her, nor hear her. But something did reply. A sly, yet grouchy voice, that came from his right.

"Stop yelling. You're not making this easier."

The air vibrated several times, before eventually, lines of ink would swirl out of nowhere, and coalesce into the shape of a normal sized fox made of lines. She looked very artistic, and looked up towards him with the lines that made for her eyes, focusing on him.

"There. That thing you call Omen? She's further in, though how she'll look, I don't know. You have no idea how hard it is to work with a mind made out of a ball of yarn, and an oversized cat."

The complaints from the fox, were said in the voice of the one who had sent him here. Elder Zhao herself, and she sounded none too happy about things. Probably due to Omen and her strangeness, making her irritating to work with, for someone like her, who had a rhyme and method to things. The mind were a delicate thing after all, and yet here she were, having to essentially jury-rig that strange creature.

If ever she met Discord, she'd have some choice words for him about craftsmanship.

"*sigh* Be it as it may, I see you found your way in safely. Good. I could not risk the presence within her, to perhaps ready defenses, so striking you whilst you were unaware, were the simplest way of easing the transition. Lu'hi are none too happy I used her study room again, but it is by far the easiest to trick minds. Other beings have such simple ideas of how rituals functions best.

Now that you are here, you should go pick up your friend. After that, we will seek for Lin's core. From the looks of things, this place is thus far still an orderly looking mess, so that is something at least. Though less of an expanse than i had hoped for. My experience tells me that these fractions are likely connected by memory. Find the right memory, and fix it, and a path shall show. And somewhere in the midst of it all, we will find what we are looking for.

Now then boy. Come on, don't be shy. You need peering into some memories. Though I will offer you some advise: Memories that needs to be be unlocked, tends to be important, or hold direction. Take notice in what you touch, lest you waste time, or perhaps learn some things, that you didn't need to."

She would touch any object he would too, that they may share the looks, and that she could instruct him in how to correct things. But he had to find the path himself. He should know his sister well, and thus, perhaps have a feeling for what might be the best path. Or he'd be lost, and she would have to direct him more, but she were an elder. She liked to educate others, and see if they could handle tasks with minimal involvement from her side. And quite frankly, she had given him more than she would any kit. Couldn't get too soft in educating the next generations now, could they?

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

 

@Rising Dusk

The actors were certainly surprised at the standing ovation. Moreso when the royal family joined in on it, but the surprise were soon followed by joy, and a great sense of satisfaction. They had put their all into making sure they would not mess up this performance, and now, all their hard work were shown. the great ones from outside their borders, and their owns royal family, applauded them, after doing their work. They could not feel happier, and quite frankly, the after party for the actors, likely just got a good reason to open the good bottle, that they had been saving for years now. If ever there were a time and place, that would be it.

When the curtain went, the royals would stop their clapping. The most enthusiastic being Prince Hayworth, followed by the more restraint, yet pleased clapping of the crown prince. At the end had been the queen, giving few, but still important claps, to indicate her enjoyment of the proceedings. One she had sat through mostly looking as regal as ever, though there had been a few times, where the facade had cracked. Once, she and Hayworth, had even gone to hold each others hooves, whilst a pained look went over their face. A time in the play, that had touched upon the loss of family, though they did not think of who came before them. Their thoughts were on one who had come later, yet were no longer here to enjoy it with them.

They would not say a word of it, though they didn't need to either. As the quiet would come, Necrotic would say, what they all three thought of.

"Brother always loved the third act..."

For a moment, before Necrotic reached a hoof to lay on her shoulder, the queen looked old and weary. The fire flickering, and showing the mourning mare that laid below the exterior. At his touch though, it were as if the fire stabilized again, and she'd raise a hoof to lay on top of his. Her facade stable and hardened again.

"It is better to remember those days, than those that came later."

"Quite so. He would not have wished for us to mourn.

Mayhap we should depart the stage, and venture forth towards the dining room?"

Hayworth were a whimp, in the eyes of many. Not battle-hardened, not strong in magic either, and hardly seemed the type who'd ever try and instigate a fight. Yet what he were, were devoted to his wife, and doing his to keep her happy. And those of the older generations, did know he had some fight in him, though it had not been seen for decades. It mostly came forth when Magenta were faltering, and danger appeared. At that point, he would be strong for the sake of her, though it were rare for troubles to come in such times. She were far too stubborn, to accept being defeated. Not with a nation resting upon her shoulders.

Going down towards the ground once more, the queen would inquire something though, as they made their ways through the halls. Not of Rising, but of Grace, whom she had noted, seemed intrigued by the performance, to put it mildly.

"You seemed to enjoy yourself thoroughly, throughout the performance. I take it this is not your first time at a theater? Pray tell then, how are performances, in Equestria? What stories have you, that is made eternal upon the stage?"

She would listen well to Grace's answer, genuinely curious. The theater were one of the few joys that Queen Magnolia had in her life, besides her family. Now she believed, she met one who had frequented quite a few performances in her life. Far, far from these shores, where their stories were different. She wondered what it might be like there. Though good or bad, she would wish to see some for herself, when in time she would go and visit their country, and their rulers in kind. Perhaps Harrowmark were not big, with much to offer, yet still, she wanted for them to mend some of the long burnt bridges, that things would be better, for the next generations to come. Making connections with Equestria, were the first of many steps that had to be taken.

When they'd eventually get to the dining hall, they'd see something that one might expect. A long table, with plates places down the sides, and trays standing ready, with food below. Yet it were not as grandiose of a table, nor selection that you might think. In the streets, there were some excess, as this were a day of celebration, yet they had elected to allow the servants and guards, to have the largest meal, and keep their own selection modest.

There would still be enough food for them all, and it were beautifully presented, albeit more rustic than the grand restaurants that they might know from Equestria. Well prepared hay, caramelized apples, spicy pear cider, rich sauce, potatoes, beats, and so forth. They did what they could with the ingredients they had, but Harrowmark had a foundation of potatoes, and thus it were often shown in their food.

The filled tomatoes were likely the most fancy looking thing here, yet what mattered how homely it looked, compared to some places, when it were the taste which mattered? And there were much to taste, with several strong to mild spices, some of of them likely best not to ask how were procured. A large, old bottle of something were also on the table. Intimidating, with the ornamental metal head of a kraken clamping down on the opening, and tentacles clasping on the bottle's sides, to keep it well closed. It were impossible to say what were in it, but they'd likely see the dark-blue bottle, reveal its secrets to them soon enough.

As for the food and serving, there would be two servants here, who would make sure to go around, and fill the plates with what were wanted by their guests. Not a word were spoken between the diamond dog and pony though. They would simply nod, and act their parts, letting them speak of what they wished to, without interference. Though if thanked, the diamond dog would momentarily wag his tail a little, every now and again.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

When asked who he were, Stargazer would let out a deep, heavy sigh, before answering.

"In honest, things area blur today, so I am uncertain if we have met. My name is Stargazer. I were sent here by her majesty, Princess Luna, to offer assistance to the Princess Twilight. I have worked with what scarce guards passed through, to handle things with the town, as the efforts to find the culprit happened, though we were beaten to the punch, as it were. So for now, we have mostly been handling the public, and ensuring that things can return to normal soon."

He'd observe as Shark listened to not his words much, but more that of Light, and would get closer to the coffee cup, sniffing the bare cup. It had nothing in it, so he would pour for her, as it appeared she wasn't sure what to do. At least that were painfully obvious, when she tried to grab the cup in her mouth, and poke it at the can.

He would pour a third of a cup, just so she had a chance to tell if she liked this. Shark sniffed it, then took a cautious lick of the liquid... And then rammed her face into the cup, slurping up the rest.

"Hehehe. Taste funny. Yum. Big friend, can give more, yes?"

"Very well, but try and feel out when your limit is reached. Coffee can be hard on some, if enjoyed in excess."

He'd pour her a full cup, and this time, she'd drink it slower, though still with her face into the cup. Table manners were for ponies, it seemed. And kitsune, and longma- Frankly it were just her.

"As for the queen in question, I am told her name is Queen Onache. Not a name I am familiar with, but as a reformed changeling queen, I did not think it prudent to keep guards on her, now that the danger have passed. I would advise you not to visit her yet though. She is still unconscious, and I get the feeling her drone will protect her fiercely. He seemed substantially distraught, when he barged in and found her in her current state.

And if you do not know what happened, she were given a changeling specific fungal infection, as I understand it. Something more deadly that the name implies."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

@EQ_Theta

He wouldn't be able to see her, nor hear her. But something did reply. A sly, yet grouchy voice, that came from his right.

"Stop yelling. You're not making this easier."

The air vibrated several times, before eventually, lines of ink would swirl out of nowhere, and coalesce into the shape of a normal sized fox made of lines. She looked very artistic, and looked up towards him with the lines that made for her eyes, focusing on him.

"There. That thing you call Omen? She's further in, though how she'll look, I don't know. You have no idea how hard it is to work with a mind made out of a ball of yarn, and an oversized cat."

The complaints from the fox, were said in the voice of the one who had sent him here. Elder Zhao herself, and she sounded none too happy about things. Probably due to Omen and her strangeness, making her irritating to work with, for someone like her, who had a rhyme and method to things. The mind were a delicate thing after all, and yet here she were, having to essentially jury-rig that strange creature.

If ever she met Discord, she'd have some choice words for him about craftsmanship.

"*sigh* Be it as it may, I see you found your way in safely. Good. I could not risk the presence within her, to perhaps ready defenses, so striking you whilst you were unaware, were the simplest way of easing the transition. Lu'hi are none too happy I used her study room again, but it is by far the easiest to trick minds. Other beings have such simple ideas of how rituals functions best.

Now that you are here, you should go pick up your friend. After that, we will seek for Lin's core. From the looks of things, this place is thus far still an orderly looking mess, so that is something at least. Though less of an expanse than i had hoped for. My experience tells me that these fractions are likely connected by memory. Find the right memory, and fix it, and a path shall show. And somewhere in the midst of it all, we will find what we are looking for.

Now then boy. Come on, don't be shy. You need peering into some memories. Though I will offer you some advise: Memories that needs to be be unlocked, tends to be important, or hold direction. Take notice in what you touch, lest you waste time, or perhaps learn some things, that you didn't need to."

She would touch any object he would too, that they may share the looks, and that she could instruct him in how to correct things. But he had to find the path himself. He should know his sister well, and thus, perhaps have a feeling for what might be the best path. Or he'd be lost, and she would have to direct him more, but she were an elder. She liked to educate others, and see if they could handle tasks with minimal involvement from her side. And quite frankly, she had given him more than she would any kit. Couldn't get too soft in educating the next generations now, could they?

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

 

@Rising Dusk

The actors were certainly surprised at the standing ovation. Moreso when the royal family joined in on it, but the surprise were soon followed by joy, and a great sense of satisfaction. They had put their all into making sure they would not mess up this performance, and now, all their hard work were shown. the great ones from outside their borders, and their owns royal family, applauded them, after doing their work. They could not feel happier, and quite frankly, the after party for the actors, likely just got a good reason to open the good bottle, that they had been saving for years now. If ever there were a time and place, that would be it.

When the curtain went, the royals would stop their clapping. The most enthusiastic being Prince Hayworth, followed by the more restraint, yet pleased clapping of the crown prince. At the end had been the queen, giving few, but still important claps, to indicate her enjoyment of the proceedings. One she had sat through mostly looking as regal as ever, though there had been a few times, where the facade had cracked. Once, she and Hayworth, had even gone to hold each others hooves, whilst a pained look went over their face. A time in the play, that had touched upon the loss of family, though they did not think of who came before them. Their thoughts were on one who had come later, yet were no longer here to enjoy it with them.

They would not say a word of it, though they didn't need to either. As the quiet would come, Necrotic would say, what they all three thought of.

"Brother always loved the third act..."

For a moment, before Necrotic reached a hoof to lay on her shoulder, the queen looked old and weary. The fire flickering, and showing the mourning mare that laid below the exterior. At his touch though, it were as if the fire stabilized again, and she'd raise a hoof to lay on top of his. Her facade stable and hardened again.

"It is better to remember those days, than those that came later."

"Quite so. He would not have wished for us to mourn.

Mayhap we should depart the stage, and venture forth towards the dining room?"

Hayworth were a whimp, in the eyes of many. Not battle-hardened, not strong in magic either, and hardly seemed the type who'd ever try and instigate a fight. Yet what he were, were devoted to his wife, and doing his to keep her happy. And those of the older generations, did know he had some fight in him, though it had not been seen for decades. It mostly came forth when Magenta were faltering, and danger appeared. At that point, he would be strong for the sake of her, though it were rare for troubles to come in such times. She were far too stubborn, to accept being defeated. Not with a nation resting upon her shoulders.

Going down towards the ground once more, the queen would inquire something though, as they made their ways through the halls. Not of Rising, but of Grace, whom she had noted, seemed intrigued by the performance, to put it mildly.

"You seemed to enjoy yourself thoroughly, throughout the performance. I take it this is not your first time at a theater? Pray tell then, how are performances, in Equestria? What stories have you, that is made eternal upon the stage?"

She would listen well to Grace's answer, genuinely curious. The theater were one of the few joys that Queen Magnolia had in her life, besides her family. Now she believed, she met one who had frequented quite a few performances in her life. Far, far from these shores, where their stories were different. She wondered what it might be like there. Though good or bad, she would wish to see some for herself, when in time she would go and visit their country, and their rulers in kind. Perhaps Harrowmark were not big, with much to offer, yet still, she wanted for them to mend some of the long burnt bridges, that things would be better, for the next generations to come. Making connections with Equestria, were the first of many steps that had to be taken.

When they'd eventually get to the dining hall, they'd see something that one might expect. A long table, with plates places down the sides, and trays standing ready, with food below. Yet it were not as grandiose of a table, nor selection that you might think. In the streets, there were some excess, as this were a day of celebration, yet they had elected to allow the servants and guards, to have the largest meal, and keep their own selection modest.

There would still be enough food for them all, and it were beautifully presented, albeit more rustic than the grand restaurants that they might know from Equestria. Well prepared hay, caramelized apples, spicy pear cider, rich sauce, potatoes, beats, and so forth. They did what they could with the ingredients they had, but Harrowmark had a foundation of potatoes, and thus it were often shown in their food.

The filled tomatoes were likely the most fancy looking thing here, yet what mattered how homely it looked, compared to some places, when it were the taste which mattered? And there were much to taste, with several strong to mild spices, some of of them likely best not to ask how were procured. A large, old bottle of something were also on the table. Intimidating, with the ornamental metal head of a kraken clamping down on the opening, and tentacles clasping on the bottle's sides, to keep it well closed. It were impossible to say what were in it, but they'd likely see the dark-blue bottle, reveal its secrets to them soon enough.

As for the food and serving, there would be two servants here, who would make sure to go around, and fill the plates with what were wanted by their guests. Not a word were spoken between the diamond dog and pony though. They would simply nod, and act their parts, letting them speak of what they wished to, without interference. Though if thanked, the diamond dog would momentarily wag his tail a little, every now and again.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

When asked who he were, Stargazer would let out a deep, heavy sigh, before answering.

"In honest, things area blur today, so I am uncertain if we have met. My name is Stargazer. I were sent here by her majesty, Princess Luna, to offer assistance to the Princess Twilight. I have worked with what scarce guards passed through, to handle things with the town, as the efforts to find the culprit happened, though we were beaten to the punch, as it were. So for now, we have mostly been handling the public, and ensuring that things can return to normal soon."

He'd observe as Shark listened to not his words much, but more that of Light, and would get closer to the coffee cup, sniffing the bare cup. It had nothing in it, so he would pour for her, as it appeared she wasn't sure what to do. At least that were painfully obvious, when she tried to grab the cup in her mouth, and poke it at the can.

He would pour a third of a cup, just so she had a chance to tell if she liked this. Shark sniffed it, then took a cautious lick of the liquid... And then rammed her face into the cup, slurping up the rest.

"Hehehe. Taste funny. Yum. Big friend, can give more, yes?"

"Very well, but try and feel out when your limit is reached. Coffee can be hard on some, if enjoyed in excess."

He'd pour her a full cup, and this time, she'd drink it slower, though still with her face into the cup. Table manners were for ponies, it seemed. And kitsune, and longma- Frankly it were just her.

"As for the queen in question, I am told her name is Queen Onache. Not a name I am familiar with, but as a reformed changeling queen, I did not think it prudent to keep guards on her, now that the danger have passed. I would advise you not to visit her yet though. She is still unconscious, and I get the feeling her drone will protect her fiercely. He seemed substantially distraught, when he barged in and found her in her current state.

And if you do not know what happened, she were given a changeling specific fungal infection, as I understand it. Something more deadly that the name implies."

Light was a bit uneasy seeing Shark wanting more. But the quickest way to learn is through experience.

So Light would just have to deal with the aftermath.

" well, its nice to meet you."

As per the fungal.

" so the queen got infected? Do you have the cure yet? If not i might know how to cure it. That is if this world has the ingredients."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp
Sheska ignored Light's remark, in fact, if a guard suddenly offered her drinks, she would be even more suspicious, because one thing more untrustworthy than a guard, was an overly friendly guard. Besides, when it came to drinking, Chega was the only one from the four who would have really drank anyway, since the siblings and Sear all wanted to keep their senses and reactions sharp, though Sear would have most likely won in amount even in that context, since being a dragon, the amount that makes a kobold drunk wouldn't feel anywhere for her. 

For the coffee, the twins actually took some too, though instead of taking a cup each, they shared a cup, Sear and Chega didn't take any because they had just eaten, and frankly, Chega was so energetic by nature, that she would probably give energy to the coffee instead.  

Stargazer's threat assessment was mainly correct too, in that he'd need more than himself, but there was also bit of overestimation. Chega, while agile and not totally useless, was not a fighter, and wouldn't do much to a trained guard, and Sear, while capable, was a reasonable dragon, and would most likely go peacefully, depending on context of course. The kobold siblings would be the main problem in a case of arrest, because they were dangerous, and unwilling to go without a fight.   

"Onache did mention a drone, and it sounded like they were close, so I'm not surprised about that." "We'll keep the mayor in mind, though we have no clue where the office is." 

 

"For the scroll thing, while it is true what the pony said, that the kitsune is the best source for exact explanation, as far as we observed, it was a form of banishment." "The scroll looked like a painting, so it was either a portal to some specific location, or a portable, magical prison dimension." "Sounded like a temporary solution though." 

They let Stargazer respond to Light's question about Onache, before adding their own explanation.
"Onache is also the one who found us." "We, along the building we came with, appeared inside her home in the desert, she brought  us to the hospital." "We aren't close with her by any means, but she did save our lives." and funnily enough, from those they had met up to this point, they trusted her the most, right after Chega and Sear. Speaking of Chega, she also added her thoughts "Her story is also quite tragic, I hope she makes it out aright." Trox was thoughtful for a second "I wonder how she'll feel after she hears that the guard already visited the place, though I guess at least she doesn't need to deal with the smell." 

------------------------------------------------------------------
"History can be an effective tool, I have learned a lot from ancient history." Probably not the thing one would expect Ruby to defend, but then again, she was using magic that was forgotten by her kind for her benefit, so she was a living example of why ancient history can be helpful. Leviathan also hadn't seen Ruby's cave, she'd be surprised how much of a book worm Ruby was. 

"I didn't know you had such an effect either." Ruby stated in slightly exaggeratedly serious manner, and if it wasn't clear that she was still being slightly playful, it would become clear, as she continued with "And I've eaten my own kind, you can't be worse than that."  before biting down on whatever was the closest part of Leviathan to her, now, of course, she didn't want to hurt her, and she was in the pony form, so Leviathan would most likely barely feel it, but it was hard enough that she would no doubt notice it. 

Ruby would then stick her tongue out as if disgusted "You taste like a lizard."

She may have not been good with the whole being playful thing, but her cold nature was a strength in one thing, she didn't get embarrassed, so that combined with her being a manipulator herself, she could come up with comebacks, now, if they were good comebacks, that was another question, but generally the biggest challenge to her was to be playful at all, so her doing what she did, was really a show of the warmth she had towards Leviathan, since anyone else in the same situation would have just gotten cold shoulder from her. Especially with them being outside.

Charir was of course confused by the whole interaction from start to finish, but didn't really question it, since he could tell it was a positive interaction, and he didn't know much about those, or interactions between dragons in general. He only knew dragons trying to kill him, and his mother, who was a bitter, cold and lonely thing, so he didn't have anything to compare to when it came to friendly interactions like this.

Though this was as much new to Ruby as it was to Charir, this wasn't some new softer side that just suddenly came out, but rather a conscious decision by her to try and let herself to be more....silly, and she couldn't lie, it was....fun.

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-10-07 at 4:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Stop yelling. You're not making this easier."

The air vibrated several times, before eventually, lines of ink would swirl out of nowhere, and coalesce into the shape of a normal sized fox made of lines. She looked very artistic, and looked up towards him with the lines that made for her eyes, focusing on him.

"There. That thing you call Omen? She's further in, though how she'll look, I don't know. You have no idea how hard it is to work with a mind made out of a ball of yarn, and an oversized cat."

More complications, but Sen couldn’t argue with the kind of logic that operates the mindscape. Elder Zhao was with him in some manner, so it would make traversal and understanding this realm a little more doable. Magic like this isn’t the easiest to grasp, but the longma didn’t quite get magic anyway, making information a little easier to digest. Still, not knowing what Omen would look like in a place like Lin’s mind was rather odd, as he thought Lin’s basic understanding of what the Ki’nathar looked like would be how she’d turn out in her mind. He’d leave the intricate specifics to Elder Zhao. 

As much as Sen would like to have a few choice words for the elder, complaining about her whacking him over the head wasn’t a conducive use of time. They were on a mission, and he’d hate to leave a negative impression on her when there was something more important to do now. She did explain why it needed to be done, which was enough to convince him of the necessity. Looks like they’ll find Omen along the way.

“I guess you know about this odd crystal then, elder. No other way forward, so I guess this one might be how we find our way in. Here’s hoping we can figure this out right because I’d hate to damage any of my sister’s memories…. Either that or we may end up stumbling into a memory Lin never told me about.”

On 2023-10-07 at 4:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Now that you are here, you should go pick up your friend. After that, we will seek for Lin's core. From the looks of things, this place is thus far still an orderly looking mess, so that is something at least. Though less of an expanse than i had hoped for. My experience tells me that these fractions are likely connected by memory. Find the right memory, and fix it, and a path shall show. And somewhere in the midst of it all, we will find what we are looking for.

Now then boy. Come on, don't be shy. You need peering into some memories. Though I will offer you some advise: Memories that needs to be be unlocked, tends to be important, or hold direction. Take notice in what you touch, lest you waste time, or perhaps learn some things, that you didn't need to."

Sen reached out and placed one claw the solid crystal, cold to the touch before emanating a faint glow. Once in, the mindscape was no more, now with him visualizing what looked like a simple memory of them staying in what appeared to be a dark room or realm devoid of other identifying features. It wasn't quite like a cave outside Canterlot, but it was likely the one they stayed at sometime after Ponyville or possibly another place altogether. Some time spent within that small town brought them together for sure despite most of it taking place in the Everfree Forest. After some time in thought, Sen could pinpoint the event: it was in Mother's realm, leaving shortly after to trace Lin's path. The longma certainly felt no different from before, but something was off. He was still the same, though seeing his body in front of him was surreal, especially when his perspective was possibly his sister talking to, well… himself. 

We need to get you help, Lin… Time is running out, and your body is breaking down because of that magic you insisted on using!

They turned their backs on our family! It was the right call when I found that magic! But you’re right; we need to find a place that could fix me…

“I remember this. It felt like a lifetime ago, but there is no doubt. Sister found some kind of source of dark magic, and although she learned how to use it, that power was slowly eating away at her until nothing would remain. Something’s not right; we weren’t alone when we were looking for a way to restore her. I am certain about it because we shared my body for a time. Hmm… wait, I think this happened after her consciousness was placed into a separate, temporary body.”

“Elder Zhao, I believe this is important for Lin. What happened after this was important for her; it was when she’d get her new body, the same one you saw earlier, and seeing Omen again was what solidified their friendship and brought all of us closer together. What can we do to set this memory right? Do I have to recall how this memory really happened and allow that to change how Lin remembers this event?”

Edited October 8, 2023 by EQ_Theta

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-10-08 at 5:46 PM, EQ_Theta said:

he way.

“I guess you know about this odd crystal then, elder. No other way forward, so I guess this one might be how we find our way in. Here’s hoping we can figure this out right because I’d hate to damage any of my sister’s memories…. Either that or we may end up stumbling into a memory Lin never told me about.”

"I can almost guarantee you, that you will see things, that you did not wish to. Memories that might scare, or deeply disturb you. Everyone have those, and several times, the darkest moments, ends up becoming important. Same for secrets.

You understand now, why trust is important? You will come to see moments in her life, that she would not want to share with others, unless you are incredibly lucky to avoid those. Trusting you won't use that against her, is going to be important for after, and why this is not something I allow anyone to do, that I sense even small amounts of malice in. It causes more trouble than it solves, and my duty is to help, not be a harbinger of malice."

In honesty, Omen were somewhat of a risk, as she were hard to get a complete read on, as she seemed so void of much, that you'd assume from a regular being. But this were an emergency, and nothing had screamed overly troubling with her. For instance, she knew how to get here, but did not use that to bring an army into their home. Omen had come to this place thus far, only asking for help, and had caused no issues in turn. So the elder decided to place some degree of trust in her.

Had she had any idea what a mess her head were, she might have reconsidered that though... It were annoying to work with one whose mind were so wrong, as hers were. But when she realized that, she were already there, and Zhao were a stubborn kitsune. She didn't accept being faced with an obstacle causing a little challenge, and then surrender right away.

Hadn't gone perfect, but Omen were in here somewhere. She should've been right here, but of course, putting her in the right spot, hadn't been that easy either.

On 2023-10-08 at 5:46 PM, EQ_Theta said:

We need to get you help, Lin… Time is running out, and your body is breaking down because of that magic you insisted on using!

They turned their backs on our family! It was the right call when I found that magic! But you’re right; we need to find a place that could fix me…

“I remember this. It felt like a lifetime ago, but there is no doubt. Sister found some kind of source of dark magic, and although she learned how to use it, that power was slowly eating away at her until nothing would remain. Something’s not right; we weren’t alone when we were looking for a way to restore her. I am certain about it because we shared my body for a time. Hmm… wait, I think this happened after her consciousness was placed into a separate, temporary body.”

“Elder Zhao, I believe this is important for Lin. What happened after this was important for her; it was when she’d get her new body, the same one you saw earlier, and seeing Omen again was what solidified their friendship and brought all of us closer together. What can we do to set this memory right? Do I have to recall how this memory really happened and allow that to change how Lin remembers this event?”

Elder Zhao had touched the gem, and saw the same as Sen did. She did not know this memory, but to the untrained eye, it certainly seemed correct. If you ignored things such as the background, and a few minute details, that showed it weren't a certain memory. Though it were close, and could be mistaken for simply a memory, that the owner were uncertain of, or misremembered slightly. The mind were a tricky thing, so much were possible.

Not that she would say something. She waited until Sen realized it himself, and then waited further, until he asked her for an explanation on what to do. That would be the tie when she would offer guidance again.

"I can teach you. First, let go of the crystal. Leave this memory."

Once he had done what she asked, she would do the same. Until he did so, she wouldn't say more, as if he wanted her help, he would have to follow her guidance, and do things in the way she said. So once step one had completed, the lesson would start.

"You've seen it now, and you know the difference. So now you need to transfer your own memory, into this. The process is less complex than you might fear. Close your eyes, and remember things as they really happened. When you are certain the memory is fresh in your mind, envision it, and push your forehead to the crystal. It will draw on your memories, to correct what you see in here.

There is a chance the false might fight back normally, but with my blessing, you should not have to worry about that."

She'd go over, and use her paw to paint a symbol on his forehead, in red ink. It would help to syphon his focus into the crystal better.

"Now then, begin the process. And no wavering or worrying, or you'll have to start over. Keep a clear head."

If he did as she said, he would return to the memory, starting over, as this were but a snippet in time, after all. But incorporating memories from him, that would paint upon the background, and mingle into the words said, if some were wrong there. Backgrounds would flicker into life, though the visual could be different. For some it went static, and then added the right things. For some, there were like a curtain drawn, would things that were there, suddenly showing in full. Others faded into things, like ghosts. The results were the same though, if done right. And if it wasn't, she'd correct him, and have him start over.

If said memory involved Mother, then as the memory ended, she'd look up towards the towering shape, with an eyebrow raised. That certainly didn't look familiar.

As for how it would end? This were a snippet in time. They'd either be tossed out instantly, or it would linger at the end. And Lin seemed like her mind had the linger. Much better to work with, as it were less disruptive.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-10-07 at 12:29 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

" well, its nice to meet you."

On 2023-10-08 at 11:14 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Onache did mention a drone, and it sounded like they were close, so I'm not surprised about that." "We'll keep the mayor in mind, though we have no clue where the office is." 

 

"For the scroll thing, while it is true what the pony said, that the kitsune is the best source for exact explanation, as far as we observed, it was a form of banishment." "The scroll looked like a painting, so it was either a portal to some specific location, or a portable, magical prison dimension." "Sounded like a temporary solution though." 

Stargazer would nod affirmatively towards Light, indicating that he had heard, and acknowledged what he said. It were simply that there were other things said, and thus, his response to the stallion, would have to halt a bit more. He would get back to Light in time.

"Actually, we can't say exactly what that were. Though it were probably a sealing scroll. We've seen something like that to contain spirits on a canvas before, but not this detailed, or expansive."

"The elders doesn't tell the rest of us what Oni are, or what exactly they do to them. They say it's for the best that as few as possible knows the finer details."

"Hmm, peculiar. But I'm assuming there is a reason for that. For now, it is enough to know the issue have been resolved. Thank you all for the confirmation.

As for where the mayor's office is, just head for the middle of the town. It is near the center, looking like the most official building in town. There's a sign over the door too.

If you see Sugarcube Corner, you're nearly there. It's the primary bakery in town."

On 2023-10-08 at 11:14 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

They let Stargazer respond to Light's question about Onache, before adding their own explanation.
"Onache is also the one who found us." "We, along the building we came with, appeared inside her home in the desert, she brought  us to the hospital." "We aren't close with her by any means, but she did save our lives." and funnily enough, from those they had met up to this point, they trusted her the most, right after Chega and Sear. Speaking of Chega, she also added her thoughts "Her story is also quite tragic, I hope she makes it out aright." Trox was thoughtful for a second "I wonder how she'll feel after she hears that the guard already visited the place, though I guess at least she doesn't need to deal with the smell." 

"The guards have been there? Must be the Solar Guards then. I haven't gotten an update on any hive inspection at least. Sounds as if things worked out well for you, and with what you say, I doubt there'll be much in the way of criminal charges, if any. Bodies from another dimension is quite a bit out of our jurisdiction

I would say that if she saved your life, perhaps you should try and get to know her better? It seems as good an excuse as any to try and make connections, though of course, that is only my opinion, and I apologize if I am overstepping my boundaries."

On 2023-10-07 at 12:29 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

" so the queen got infected? Do you have the cure yet? If not i might know how to cure it. That is if this world has the ingredients."

It appeared it were now time to address this, before things veered off course too much. He still had much to do today after all, before he could call it a day, and get some rest. Most importantly, finding his daughter, and assure her that everything were alright, then bring her back home, where he could fill out a proper report, before getting to bed. It would take hours, but at least it would be done then, and hopefully, Ponyville would stop being so chaotic afterwards, so that he could get some undisturbed rest for a change.

"Now as for your questions, Light, I can ease your mind and let you know, that Doctor Toxina had a cure on hoof, that she used on the queen on arrival to the hospital. As I understand her explanation, if it had not been applied by now, the fungus would've spread too far through the queen, and caused irreversible absorption of both what emotions she currently have stored, and halt her from absorbing any new ones. She is uncertain how the effect would be on reformed changelings, but did say that it would cause mind death in regular ones, which would revert them to a feral stage, where their minds were locked up, and had to spectate that their bodies were no longer under their control, as it would endlessly seek only to hunt and consume.

It sounded like there is nothing a regular changeling would not do, to avoid having to end up in that stage. Including suicide, though more often when it happens, it will be on other changelings to hunt down and end their suffering."

"That's uhm... Pretty dark."

"Quite so. Though it is useful to know, in case one runs into a desperate, irrational changeling. I wouldn't wish a fate like this upon any creature.

Now then, unless there is more you would have me answer, or ask of me in general, I should be on my way. My duties sadly does not end yet for the day."

He'd finish his cup, just about the same time that Shark did the same. Though she would also lick the cup clean, and then around her mouth, to get every drop of coffee that she could get hold of. She seemed aware and perky, but that were basically the same as whenever she had taken a good, long dive.

"Hehehe, good taste. Coooo-ffeeee. Coffee. Taste good, feel... Awaaaaaaa-ke. Awake. Shark feel awake."

It appeared she could handle a cup or two of coffee fairly easily, without it taking much of an effect on her. Probably for the best not to let her drink the whole can though, or they'd probably end up having her flying around, rushing around a lamp whilst giggling or something similar.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

The closest body part at the time, that weren't a wing that would be dangerous to chomp down on, were her hand, as she had been putting that forth, with the intent of using a few hand gestures to enhance her gestures a little. She had not expected to suddenly have said hand in Ruby's mouth, and then see her spit it out, saying that she tasted badly. Leviathan would look downright stunned for a moment in fact, thinking Ruby would never do something like that to her.

Then she'd start to laugh, flapping down to the ground again to avoid her crashing, albeit at a low altitude. She'd done that before, and it really wasn't that bad, but she found herself getting towards the ground without thinking much on it, whilst a healthy, but not loud of bellowing laugh escaped her.

"A lizard? I *snrk* didn't think I'd hear that out of you, Ruby. Utterly priceless."

Ruby had made an actual, playful joke there. Ruby. One of the most serious dragons she had ever encountered, that wasn't in a position of societal power. It had really caught her off guard, and thus, just made it that much more funny to her.

"It's very enticing though, seeing you let loose a little. Though I resent tasting like a lizard. I'm more like a malnourished eel, heh."

She were tempted to try and nibble a bit on Ruby, but she didn't want to chance that this went too far. Ruby poked out of her shell here. She didn't want that to stop, and it could, if she got too pushy. At least she'd assume so. She really sucked at judging these things sometimes to be honest, and Ruby weren't always easy to read. Or well, it was a tricky mess most of the time.

It were hard not to see how happy Leviathan were though. Her tail were wagging a little, and on the tip, electricity jolted around, running up and down from the middle of her tail, and to the tip. Charir could grab hold if he wanted to try some electricity training again, though if he didn't want to, it would eventually stop., Just not yet. She were a bit too hyped for that, and didn't even notice she were doing this.

"It's so nice to see you open up like that. Permission to go in for a hug?"

She were dead serious, even if her face and voice were all smiles, and would stand with her arms wide open, ready to go in. Or take a step back, if she really were overstepping her boundaries. Sure this were a bit of a risk too, but she were asking permission! That had to count for something, right? At least it wouldn't take Ruby by surprise, and cause her to rip out Leviathan's larynx. Probably. There were chance she supposed, but it were best not to think about that sorta thing. She liked her insides to stay were they were.

This were such a great time. She felt more and more fortunate, that she had come to meet these two, with every passing moment. Not a dull moment with them around. Except for the times they were inside, and she felt semi-trapped, but that didn't count!

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

He'd finish his cup, just about the same time that Shark did the same. Though she would also lick the cup clean, and then around her mouth, to get every drop of coffee that she could get hold of. She seemed aware and perky, but that were basically the same as whenever she had taken a good, long dive.

" huh..." Light gave a sigh of question.

" is the Changeling shard here not abundant?" He asked the guards.

" because if they go feral, that means theres nothing stopping the fungus. Hence the fungus is actually controlling or manipulating the changelings. Whenever the changelings are near their hive where the shards are abundant, they are more cunning and wise. While away from the hunt or invasion, they are more feral and ruthless." He questioned.

" but it seems the other changelings would end up hunting them down instead... either they dont know or it doesn't work. how cruel their fate has been." He sighed.

" surely this Toxina wouldve been able to cure the changelings if she knew how to cure the queen? Just a bit of changeling shard would do." He asked.

[Rising Dusk 27,511]

@Blitz Boom

The family continued their applause until the curtain fell for the final time.  Hopefully leaving the performers with a wonderful sense of satisfaction in their play.  A lovely time to spend an hour after the relaxing time in the cozy recovery room.  Grace had more fully recovered from her culture shock while out on tour in the streets with a pleasant smile on her snoot.  At the behest of Hayworth, food sounded like it was next on the menu for the family, pun intended.  But, as they were starting to descend their floating balcony, the Queen decided to inquire of the mother.  Unexpected, but she seemed most genuine.

"No, your Majesty.  I, in my youth, were an aerial dancer and most acquainted with the theater," the pegasus motioned to the stage they just watched.  "And if I may be so bold, I was most dazzling at it," a coy smile crossed her lips.  "Now, I am a instructor in my art.  To pass on my experience to younger, generations.  In Equestria, we hail from a city, called Manehatten, that takes great pride in our love for the theater.  My family here, even the stoic detective over there, are just as their fellow city folk and connoisseurs of the theater.  I have not enough words in an evening to tell you the whole of the performances you'd find in Equestria, your Majesty.  Grand in scale from day long ballads to the smallest, sweetest of school plays put on for proud parents.  We tell of many stories, from the deepest Tragedies to greatest displays of heroism.  Of romance, of friendship, of family, of comedy, of horror, of the slice-of-life, of history, of fantasy.  In all manner of form: music, plays, dance, paint and words.  I will say, our themes to tend to be more bias toward the wholesome, the joyful, the light hearted.  I also suppose our definition of theater has truly stretched to mean any form of art performed before an audience.  Indoor or out.  As for our most eternal art upon the stage?  I would have to say The Hearth's Warming Eve and The Summer Set, both ancient plays carried down from the founding of Equestria, over a thousand years ago."

Grace would carry on the conversation with the Queen should she so wish so as they made their way to the dinning hall.  Like everything else they'd experience, the dinning hall carried on with the rustic, old timey appearance they'd been use to.  Only two servants, keeping with what Necrotic told them earlier about making sure as many citizens of Harrowmark got to celebrate as much as possible.  Their spread was much more simple and less grand that what they might have been expecting.  But it made sense.  Even so, they were more fancy than what Rising were use to.  He wouldn't say he were picky by any means, just more simple in his like for food.  The detective lived on street food, as it were vastly easier to get when out and about on patrol or out investigating.  Rarely he cocked, unless pouring his morning cereal into a bowl counted as cooking, unless he was having company over.  Dawn had a much bigger palate for fancy food than he.  Built on many dinners with the high and mighty of Equestria, but he knew deep down she could never turn down a street Hayburger, even if she'd have to eat it out of view of high society.

The family took their seats and picked a little of everything to sample from the spread.

"Ho ho ho.  Nothing like a fine meal after enjoying a show," the stallion were not as shy and started to sample his presented food barely by the time the servants put it on his plate.  Grace kicked his leg under the table before whispering, "Manners.  Wait for her Majesty."

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-10-11 at 2:38 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I can almost guarantee you, that you will see things, that you did not wish to. Memories that might scare, or deeply disturb you. Everyone have those, and several times, the darkest moments, ends up becoming important. Same for secrets.

You understand now, why trust is important? You will come to see moments in her life, that she would not want to share with others, unless you are incredibly lucky to avoid those. Trusting you won't use that against her, is going to be important for after, and why this is not something I allow anyone to do, that I sense even small amounts of malice in. It causes more trouble than it solves, and my duty is to help, not be a harbinger of malice."

“I hope I am not doing a disservice to my sister, but… there’s no going back now. Let’s get started.”

Sen understood the part about trust and the memories that would test that, but something about what Elder Zhao said had Sen worried. It wasn’t the misuse of memories that got the longma to doubt himself. Some specific memory, if shared between her and him, might be easy to work with, unless it was something that Sen dreaded. Going by the elder’s words, key memories were going to what would lead them further inward, and so it was that he’d start extrapolating the possibilities that lay further ahead. It was too soon to jump to conclusions, but he hoped his fears wouldn’t be confirmed through one specific memory they shared.

For the moment, he’d follow the elder’s instructions, more simple than he could have expected, but it was a fairly good place to start. Once stepping back and understanding what he needed to do, he’d once again press his head to the crystal shard, allowing his own recollections of the event to change Lin’s memories. Mother’s realm, though dark and devoid of detail, began to form, swapping out what may be a cave’s interior with the expanse of darkness. There he was with Lin, then Mother, forming from vapors and setting the scene for them to head out and find their solution to Lin’s dilemma. Omen would be there as well, joining them just as it happened. 

On 2023-10-11 at 2:38 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"You've seen it now, and you know the difference. So now you need to transfer your own memory, into this. The process is less complex than you might fear. Close your eyes, and remember things as they really happened. When you are certain the memory is fresh in your mind, envision it, and push your forehead to the crystal. It will draw on your memories, to correct what you see in here.

There is a chance the false might fight back normally, but with my blessing, you should not have to worry about that."

She'd go over, and use her paw to paint a symbol on his forehead, in red ink. It would help to syphon his focus into the crystal better.

"Now then, begin the process. And no wavering or worrying, or you'll have to start over. Keep a clear head."

Though there may be some details omitted, the longma did his best to keep a clear head and remember the most important parts of this event. This was when they were setting out to find a place of pure magic, somewhere they’d find the solution to Lin’s problem and get her a new body. Unfortunately, even the missing information about Mother was worrying, but her being part of this memory meant Sen would have to try and impart the right impression of the towering creature, if possible. Something that would show Mother to be a comforting presence despite her appearance…

…Absolutely not! You’ve seen what your irresponsible use of magic could have done. Do you think keeping it with you is a good idea?!

...If there is a chance the dark aspects of this kind of magic could be removed, it will be worth it! I know I’m unable to use it properly, but let me do this…. If I had the chance to comfort you and remove those terrible nightmares you’ve had for the last few years, I would have done so! … I can’t help but feel responsible for them. If you don’t want me using magic, so be it, but let me try to do right by you…

Once the initial dialogue had passed, the image of Mother would manifest. A large figure enough to send scares down the spine were it not for her comforting words and sound advice, a kind of safety in the midst of uncertainty. That comfort is what Lin needed to recall, even the siblings bickered with each other, as Mother lent a gentle ear, a soft voice, and a warm smile that calmed heated tensions and soothed worries.

…Really, you are both right, as well as wrong. You are both blinded by things, and concern drives you to think the other is not thinking things through. Feelings that can lead to anger, and you do not need that now. Not with the battle you will have ahead of you when you get out of here to find a place of pure magic, and the hour of twilight when it is at its peak…

...Sen and Lin, if I can only leave you with one bit of advice more, let it be this: Don't waste your time fighting one another. The times ahead will likely be different for you both, and if so, you will need each other not as enemies or some you hold grudges towards, but as the only thing that matters: family. What that entails is yet to be seen, but I have faith in your future, children of an equine world. Until next we meet, fare well." 

After some time, the longma would allow the event to play out as it did, having done what he could piece it together from memory until she, Omen, and Sen set out to find the place of magic that ends with her new body. This one went back a long while, but his narration to Elder Zhao meant he was still familiar with what happened next, despite him being absent from the later events. The memory would continue on until it ended, letting it slowly fade into what might be Lin’s consciousness; perhaps that might be how it worked once the longma finished because he would see himself ejected and returned to the mindscape without much in the way of resistance. 

“I think that might be it for that memory,” Sen started, calmly looking around to see if anything had changed. A path leading further in would be preferable, but he’d wait and see if anything tangible manifested within the immediate vicinity. “I’m not sure if there is more to do here, but if not, what’s the next step?”

Edited October 12, 2023 by EQ_Theta

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Rising Dusk

On 2023-10-11 at 5:33 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"No, your Majesty.  I, in my youth, were an aerial dancer and most acquainted with the theater," the pegasus motioned to the stage they just watched.  "And if I may be so bold, I was most dazzling at it," a coy smile crossed her lips.  "Now, I am a instructor in my art.  To pass on my experience to younger, generations.  In Equestria, we hail from a city, called Manehatten, that takes great pride in our love for the theater.  My family here, even the stoic detective over there, are just as their fellow city folk and connoisseurs of the theater.  I have not enough words in an evening to tell you the whole of the performances you'd find in Equestria, your Majesty.  Grand in scale from day long ballads to the smallest, sweetest of school plays put on for proud parents.  We tell of many stories, from the deepest Tragedies to greatest displays of heroism.  Of romance, of friendship, of family, of comedy, of horror, of the slice-of-life, of history, of fantasy.  In all manner of form: music, plays, dance, paint and words.  I will say, our themes to tend to be more bias toward the wholesome, the joyful, the light hearted.  I also suppose our definition of theater has truly stretched to mean any form of art performed before an audience.  Indoor or out.  As for our most eternal art upon the stage?  I would have to say The Hearth's Warming Eve and The Summer Set, both ancient plays carried down from the founding of Equestria, over a thousand years ago."

The queen would listen, and keep the details she were told in mind. Of Grace, and of the theater, from where these ponies came. It sounded as if this mare had a story to tell, with her life. Alas their time were limited now, but there were still time in the future to share tales. Perhaps over dinner? If not, they both had years to come, and the queen would not be against the idea of meeting again on other occasions. When the work of the monarchy did not stand in the way, of course. Her country came before everything else. Especially in the turbulent time they were now headed towards. There would be much need for a regent in those days.

"I shall keep those plays you treasure in mind, for when I shall one day visit Equestria myself. I would like to see for myself, these tales that have immortalized themselves upon your stages.

So you say you are a teacher, making use of your personal experiences then, to inspire a generation?  It is admirable work, to accept that your time will come, and that those who will come, could benefit greatly from the knowledge you can impart. I find that for some, it can be hard to know and accept when the time nears to stand aside, and let those you taught, get a chance to take the spot that you once rightly claimed, and flourish in their own right. Some are just too stubborn or vain to understand, that at a certain point, you do more harm clinging on, than to accept the time have come.

I shall also make sure that the performers gets made aware of your experiences. Your praise weighs heavier, when it comes from a place of experience on their side of the stage."

Necrotic would not openly show it, but inside, he dreaded those words, as they wandered along, towards the dining room. He knew as well as his mother, that the time would come, when she would believe him ready, and take the throne, that she had prepared him for the past twenty summers. More so, the past ten, where his studies had increased. At first he believed, because she wanted him occupied, so he did not think about how little she wished him to leave the castle, following the years after his brother's death, but it started to become more clear, that she saw ahead, a time when she had to leave the throne for him, and she did not want him to face it unprepared.

Times had changed now, and he did not know when his mother considered her time had come, but hearing her say these words, made it sound as if those things still laid on her mind, as they now faced a new dawn in their country's dark history. Yet he for one, did not think his mother should move aside, as this were a time when they needed a steadfast, iron will, and he held not a candle to his mother. Furthermore, he did not believe himself ready. There were still much he needed to learn, and though he were well seen by the citizens, he did not believe he had yet reached a point, where he had earned the respect it required, to sit sagely upon a throne, and guide them forward.

His mother knew this. He were certain of that. But who knew how things might look in ten, fifteen years? Perhaps then the country were settled properly, and he had learned enough, to be worthy of the duty that would be placed upon his shoulders.

On 2023-10-11 at 5:33 AM, Rising Dusk said:

The family took their seats and picked a little of everything to sample from the spread.

"Ho ho ho.  Nothing like a fine meal after enjoying a show," the stallion were not as shy and started to sample his presented food barely by the time the servants put it on his plate.  Grace kicked his leg under the table before whispering, "Manners.  Wait for her Majesty."

The royal family sat themselves upon their seats, and would have some things added to their plates too. They would start off more modestly, and would eat calmly when time were. Certainly they were hungry, but their guests of honor should not gaze upon savages, with no table manners. The queen would not have it, and as such, both her husband and son, would not yet touch their food, as things sat ready, with the servants standing to the sides of the table, ready to assist in whatever manner they might be needed for.

"I welcome you to our modest table. Let us eat."

With that, everyone might begin to have what they put upon the plates. And were there anything they reached for, the servants would come over to handle such things, not wanting their esteemed guests to have to deal with such banalities themselves. They could be rest assured, that they'd be getting the chance to enjoy the festivities too, soon enough.

"I hope you do not feel dismayed the selection is smaller than what might be possible, but as celebration is in order around out fair nation, it were inconceivable for my mother, that we should feast in excess, when others still had empty bellies that needed filling. So much of our storage have been redirected to the feast, as well as a grand meal for the servants, and guards of the castle. We hope still though, that the meal will find you welcome, my friends."

There were also the matter of the special bottle on the table, but that were for another mouth to present. One more knowledgeable about wines as it were, than himself.

"A good meal still it is, yes yes. And with a special wine to boot too. One saved for centuries, for the celebration where we'd be free once more.

The last bottle owned by the Royal Family, of the mysterious *Kraken Wine*. A brew that sometimes run ashore in random places, hidden among wreckage new and old. None ever knew who makes them, and it have gone on for centuries, if not longer, but every bottle is highly valued. The few that were not claimed by Twisted, are normally taken by those with money and connections, before the royal house even hears of them. Yet we have had this, for near three hundred years now. King Walrus found it in his youth, and in his twilight years, he asked with his dying breath, that it stay sealed, 'til the tyrant fell.

Aaah. A storied bottle, that is rumored to be a taste out of this world. And my do we have many legends. Some claim it is made from ghosts. Others that a kraken brews it within its own beak. Others still, that it is a long running marketing scam, by the high houses. What the truth is? We may never know, but there's hardly a need to, yes? Let us open this, and see what lays in store. I've read so much of this, that I am nearly dying of curiosity."

Understanding the queue, the servants would start casting spells. One holding the bottle still, the other loosening the tentacles on the bottle, that they may release the kraken as it were. And as the last lo9osened, and the cork loosened, fog would start to bellow out of the bottle. Slowly and laying in a thick, thin layer, rolling close to the ground for several minutes. It'd be cold to the touch, and send chills down your spine, but that just seemed to animate Hayworth even more, as he waited for the fog to halt. Which it oddly enough didn't, though it did slowly down substantially eventually, and only rolling down the bottle, before the fog started to dissipate.

He'd ask who's like to try of course, because he would not force this upon any, and those who accepted, would have it poured into antique wine glasses at their plates. The liquid would resemble white wine in color, though with a deep blue tinge to it, and fog still rolling on top of the glass, albeit barely. There'd be nothing magical about it, if Rising checked, so they wouldn't need to worry of that. The servants would also hold an odd gems towards the top of the flask before pouring the liquid out, with no reaction spotted. Judging from the magic on it, Rising would be able to tell it were meant to sense something. Likely poison. Couldn't be too safe as a royal sometimes.

The queen would halt eating, to raise her glass first, and with a nod, would take a sip herself, indicating that others might follow suits. And the taste were something that Hayworth at least savored greatly, slowly letting the liquid roll around in his mouth. It tasted of fresh air, and rolling waves. The splendor of the sea, down to seaweed and a strange somewhat tangy and salty, fruity tastes, mixing with the roaring taste that crashed towards your tastebuds. Albeit the first impression were calm and pleasant in your mouth, the strength it gathered into were not subtle, nor easy to discern. Even one who knew a lot of various drinks, such as Dawn might, wouldn't be able to discern all. Though if her, or one of the others knew their wines well, they would be able to tell of several ingredients that were indeed regular in or around the sea, mixed with some spices that were most peculiar.

Necrotic would have a sip too of a glass, and raised an eyebrow, as the taste soon roamed in his mouth, like a storm in a bottle. And then, the feeling went, as the after taste quickly softened once more. It were certainly tasty, but the experience were strange. Like sailing a calm ocean, only to feel the brutality of the sea for a brief moment, before all went silent. He suspected the fog that permeated from the liquid, had something to do with that, but he couldn't tell. He were not much of a wine drinker, if he had to be honest.

"That is... Certainly an experience. Quite peculiar drink."

"Such a rich, fresh flavor. Never have I tasted a wine with the hint of salt, yet I treasure this experience greatly."

None had to try if they wished not to, and could simply dine upon the offerings at the table. There were time to speak still too, and ask questions, if they had it. The story books could say much, and Necrotic certainly spoke too, in his time in their presence, but if they wished to ask something directly from the queen and her husband, now would be as good a chance as any. They were likely not to have time, once the statue would be ready to be presented.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-10-12 at 4:00 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I hope I am not doing a disservice to my sister, but… there’s no going back now. Let’s get started.”

"Try and trust her, as she does you. Questioning if it is okay to view things now, will do you no good."

It were frankly too late, as this were his one chance to do things right, and see if he couldn't save Lin's mind, before it were changed into something that it wasn't meant to be. Though she were confident that they could solve this issue, and return the memories properly to her, as well as dealing with the issue at the root.

Granted, a normal being would collapse and be unconscious for hours, if not days afterwards, due to the stress and the mind needing time to resettle properly. But Lin were not of a sort she had seen before, and some had simply stronger wills, making them able to withstand things easier. It may well be that she would be able to remain awake, and simply be disoriented, or dizzy. It were hard to say, though if she were down for a prolonged period of time, they would handle watching her. They were not savages after all. Though she could not guarantee that Elder Gao wasn't gonna scribble on her in her rest, lest she were properly guarded. He were a good elder for what he were required to do, yet his silly side never left him. In some respects, that were something that many admired about him. For one like her, it at times irritated her, as it led him to interrupting her hobbies, or being foolish, just for the sake of it.

In honest, she sometimes thought that he did things, solely to grind her gears, and see in what way he would make her snap at him next.

On 2023-10-12 at 4:00 PM, EQ_Theta said:

After some time, the longma would allow the event to play out as it did, having done what he could piece it together from memory until she, Omen, and Sen set out to find the place of magic that ends with her new body. This one went back a long while, but his narration to Elder Zhao meant he was still familiar with what happened next, despite him being absent from the later events. The memory would continue on until it ended, letting it slowly fade into what might be Lin’s consciousness; perhaps that might be how it worked once the longma finished because he would see himself ejected and returned to the mindscape without much in the way of resistance. 

“I think that might be it for that memory,” Sen started, calmly looking around to see if anything had changed. A path leading further in would be preferable, but he’d wait and see if anything tangible manifested within the immediate vicinity. “I’m not sure if there is more to do here, but if not, what’s the next step?”

"For a first try, you did well. There are some rough edges, but when her mind is her own again, her own memories will fill in the blanks, and correct things around this. For the time being, it serves as a good stand-in for her own.

Continue to listen and learn as we proceed, and this will go smoother than I had anticipated."

She would address him as if he were her student, which to some extend, he were currently too. She were trying to teach him, how to do this, that she might help him, help Lin. As a teacher, it were not her job to do everything after all. He would learn nothing from that, and that were not her way of doing things. She were a teacher in her youth, and as an elder, she considered herself to be if anything, even more of a teacher than she were before that. Just that instead of a classroom, she now had villages to teach, and generations that would end up seeing her words and acts written down, that would inform them long after she were dead.

Some like her, took that duty stoically, and with seriousness. Others... Well, Elder Gao were not the only one who were more aloof in it, though even he were a good teacher, and figurehead, when he were required to be so. All of them were, or they would be unsuited for leading their kin.

"As for where to go from here, if this were the memory that needed to be repaired, then a path should open for us, to move on to the next island. If not, we still need to encounter another memory."

This seemed an important memory, and if so, fixing it, should have opened a path in some way. Be it a bridge, a rope, a point one could touch, and be transported- This were Lin's mind, and not everyone had connecting points that were the same. For all she knew, they'd find a platform they could stand upon, that would then float to the next area. And on the next island as it were, they'd find Omen. It would act like her at least, though she looked... Odd, if it were her. A ball of yarn that seemed to bounce in place, a third the size of Sen. There were a movement in front of the yarn, indicating the likeliness of a face, and two large, fluffy and floppy at the end bunny ears adorning the head, equal in height to the yarn itself, whilst the end of the yarn were flayed and looked like a swaying tail sort of, if you narrowed your eyes a bit and looked hard.

Also seemed to be a couple of knitting rods through her from the sides, meeting in a cross within hers, in the same color and design, as Elder Zhao's visage in here were. As for the proof this might be Omen? A small tongue would stick out, and lick an object there, and the ball of yarn would then go motionless for a moment, before doing it again, rinse and repeat. Likely a memory that she were observing.

On the way to the next island though (provided the path were open) Elder Zhao would ask a question of Sen though. Something she wished to know, before they met up with Omen.

"I would like to ask, what were that towering creature, in the memory before? I could tell she were real, but never have I seen her likeness, nor heard of it either."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

"I am afraid you would have to take up that discussion with her, to get more specific details about that. I am not greatly familiar with things regarding changelings, and as such, are not qualified to say whatever these shards you mentioned, would have any kind of effect on them. Though I do find it curious you say they are more feral when away from them. I've met some changelings in my days, and more still after King Thorax's ascension to the throne of Chrysalis's former hive, and I wouldn't describe those I have seen as feral. Most were either cunning, or afraid, due to their covers being blown.

Are you certain you don't think about them simply being more ruthless during a hunt? I could see that being the case, where being more feral away from home wouldn't. They'd hardly be all that good at infiltrating and mimic others, if they could not stray, without losing some of their personal control.

But as said, I am no expert. I can judge but what I see, and the grain of truth I sometimes gleam from what I hear of them. If you wish to have a more in depth talk of this, you should go and speak with Doctor Toxina at some point, and ask her personally. As a recent arrival, with an extensive medical history, she can answer these things well on her own."

He hadn't heard talks of various worlds and such, before arriving, or he might have suggested that the rules were different in some worlds, over others, but that were still just speculation. If Light wanted facts, he would need to go and see the renowned doctor, that had decided to put down roots here for a time, after yet another trip into the world, to broaden her medical knowledge. She were perhaps busy, but at least he might be able to schedule a meeting, or have a brief interaction. Depended on how things looked, and things were likely okay. Some bruises and such he heard, but not a whole lot of serious injuries, after all this mess. Not beyond Harpoon, Onache, and the elderly couple, of course.

"If you know remedies for changelings she doesn't though, I'm sure the insight would be welcome. They're starting to try and integrate into our society, so whatever knowledge on hoof the hospital could have for their care, the better prepared they may be."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

35 minutes ago, Blitz Boom said:

@Rising Dusk

The queen would listen, and keep the details she were told in mind. Of Grace, and of the theater, from where these ponies came. It sounded as if this mare had a story to tell, with her life. Alas their time were limited now, but there were still time in the future to share tales. Perhaps over dinner? If not, they both had years to come, and the queen would not be against the idea of meeting again on other occasions. When the work of the monarchy did not stand in the way, of course. Her country came before everything else. Especially in the turbulent time they were now headed towards. There would be much need for a regent in those days.

"I shall keep those plays you treasure in mind, for when I shall one day visit Equestria myself. I would like to see for myself, these tales that have immortalized themselves upon your stages.

So you say you are a teacher, making use of your personal experiences then, to inspire a generation?  It is admirable work, to accept that your time will come, and that those who will come, could benefit greatly from the knowledge you can impart. I find that for some, it can be hard to know and accept when the time nears to stand aside, and let those you taught, get a chance to take the spot that you once rightly claimed, and flourish in their own right. Some are just too stubborn or vain to understand, that at a certain point, you do more harm clinging on, than to accept the time have come.

I shall also make sure that the performers gets made aware of your experiences. Your praise weighs heavier, when it comes from a place of experience on their side of the stage."

Necrotic would not openly show it, but inside, he dreaded those words, as they wandered along, towards the dining room. He knew as well as his mother, that the time would come, when she would believe him ready, and take the throne, that she had prepared him for the past twenty summers. More so, the past ten, where his studies had increased. At first he believed, because she wanted him occupied, so he did not think about how little she wished him to leave the castle, following the years after his brother's death, but it started to become more clear, that she saw ahead, a time when she had to leave the throne for him, and she did not want him to face it unprepared.

Times had changed now, and he did not know when his mother considered her time had come, but hearing her say these words, made it sound as if those things still laid on her mind, as they now faced a new dawn in their country's dark history. Yet he for one, did not think his mother should move aside, as this were a time when they needed a steadfast, iron will, and he held not a candle to his mother. Furthermore, he did not believe himself ready. There were still much he needed to learn, and though he were well seen by the citizens, he did not believe he had yet reached a point, where he had earned the respect it required, to sit sagely upon a throne, and guide them forward.

His mother knew this. He were certain of that. But who knew how things might look in ten, fifteen years? Perhaps then the country were settled properly, and he had learned enough, to be worthy of the duty that would be placed upon his shoulders.

The royal family sat themselves upon their seats, and would have some things added to their plates too. They would start off more modestly, and would eat calmly when time were. Certainly they were hungry, but their guests of honor should not gaze upon savages, with no table manners. The queen would not have it, and as such, both her husband and son, would not yet touch their food, as things sat ready, with the servants standing to the sides of the table, ready to assist in whatever manner they might be needed for.

"I welcome you to our modest table. Let us eat."

With that, everyone might begin to have what they put upon the plates. And were there anything they reached for, the servants would come over to handle such things, not wanting their esteemed guests to have to deal with such banalities themselves. They could be rest assured, that they'd be getting the chance to enjoy the festivities too, soon enough.

"I hope you do not feel dismayed the selection is smaller than what might be possible, but as celebration is in order around out fair nation, it were inconceivable for my mother, that we should feast in excess, when others still had empty bellies that needed filling. So much of our storage have been redirected to the feast, as well as a grand meal for the servants, and guards of the castle. We hope still though, that the meal will find you welcome, my friends."

There were also the matter of the special bottle on the table, but that were for another mouth to present. One more knowledgeable about wines as it were, than himself.

"A good meal still it is, yes yes. And with a special wine to boot too. One saved for centuries, for the celebration where we'd be free once more.

The last bottle owned by the Royal Family, of the mysterious *Kraken Wine*. A brew that sometimes run ashore in random places, hidden among wreckage new and old. None ever knew who makes them, and it have gone on for centuries, if not longer, but every bottle is highly valued. The few that were not claimed by Twisted, are normally taken by those with money and connections, before the royal house even hears of them. Yet we have had this, for near three hundred years now. King Walrus found it in his youth, and in his twilight years, he asked with his dying breath, that it stay sealed, 'til the tyrant fell.

Aaah. A storied bottle, that is rumored to be a taste out of this world. And my do we have many legends. Some claim it is made from ghosts. Others that a kraken brews it within its own beak. Others still, that it is a long running marketing scam, by the high houses. What the truth is? We may never know, but there's hardly a need to, yes? Let us open this, and see what lays in store. I've read so much of this, that I am nearly dying of curiosity."

Understanding the queue, the servants would start casting spells. One holding the bottle still, the other loosening the tentacles on the bottle, that they may release the kraken as it were. And as the last lo9osened, and the cork loosened, fog would start to bellow out of the bottle. Slowly and laying in a thick, thin layer, rolling close to the ground for several minutes. It'd be cold to the touch, and send chills down your spine, but that just seemed to animate Hayworth even more, as he waited for the fog to halt. Which it oddly enough didn't, though it did slowly down substantially eventually, and only rolling down the bottle, before the fog started to dissipate.

He'd ask who's like to try of course, because he would not force this upon any, and those who accepted, would have it poured into antique wine glasses at their plates. The liquid would resemble white wine in color, though with a deep blue tinge to it, and fog still rolling on top of the glass, albeit barely. There'd be nothing magical about it, if Rising checked, so they wouldn't need to worry of that. The servants would also hold an odd gems towards the top of the flask before pouring the liquid out, with no reaction spotted. Judging from the magic on it, Rising would be able to tell it were meant to sense something. Likely poison. Couldn't be too safe as a royal sometimes.

The queen would halt eating, to raise her glass first, and with a nod, would take a sip herself, indicating that others might follow suits. And the taste were something that Hayworth at least savored greatly, slowly letting the liquid roll around in his mouth. It tasted of fresh air, and rolling waves. The splendor of the sea, down to seaweed and a strange somewhat tangy and salty, fruity tastes, mixing with the roaring taste that crashed towards your tastebuds. Albeit the first impression were calm and pleasant in your mouth, the strength it gathered into were not subtle, nor easy to discern. Even one who knew a lot of various drinks, such as Dawn might, wouldn't be able to discern all. Though if her, or one of the others knew their wines well, they would be able to tell of several ingredients that were indeed regular in or around the sea, mixed with some spices that were most peculiar.

Necrotic would have a sip too of a glass, and raised an eyebrow, as the taste soon roamed in his mouth, like a storm in a bottle. And then, the feeling went, as the after taste quickly softened once more. It were certainly tasty, but the experience were strange. Like sailing a calm ocean, only to feel the brutality of the sea for a brief moment, before all went silent. He suspected the fog that permeated from the liquid, had something to do with that, but he couldn't tell. He were not much of a wine drinker, if he had to be honest.

"That is... Certainly an experience. Quite peculiar drink."

"Such a rich, fresh flavor. Never have I tasted a wine with the hint of salt, yet I treasure this experience greatly."

None had to try if they wished not to, and could simply dine upon the offerings at the table. There were time to speak still too, and ask questions, if they had it. The story books could say much, and Necrotic certainly spoke too, in his time in their presence, but if they wished to ask something directly from the queen and her husband, now would be as good a chance as any. They were likely not to have time, once the statue would be ready to be presented.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

"Try and trust her, as she does you. Questioning if it is okay to view things now, will do you no good."

It were frankly too late, as this were his one chance to do things right, and see if he couldn't save Lin's mind, before it were changed into something that it wasn't meant to be. Though she were confident that they could solve this issue, and return the memories properly to her, as well as dealing with the issue at the root.

Granted, a normal being would collapse and be unconscious for hours, if not days afterwards, due to the stress and the mind needing time to resettle properly. But Lin were not of a sort she had seen before, and some had simply stronger wills, making them able to withstand things easier. It may well be that she would be able to remain awake, and simply be disoriented, or dizzy. It were hard to say, though if she were down for a prolonged period of time, they would handle watching her. They were not savages after all. Though she could not guarantee that Elder Gao wasn't gonna scribble on her in her rest, lest she were properly guarded. He were a good elder for what he were required to do, yet his silly side never left him. In some respects, that were something that many admired about him. For one like her, it at times irritated her, as it led him to interrupting her hobbies, or being foolish, just for the sake of it.

In honest, she sometimes thought that he did things, solely to grind her gears, and see in what way he would make her snap at him next.

"For a first try, you did well. There are some rough edges, but when her mind is her own again, her own memories will fill in the blanks, and correct things around this. For the time being, it serves as a good stand-in for her own.

Continue to listen and learn as we proceed, and this will go smoother than I had anticipated."

She would address him as if he were her student, which to some extend, he were currently too. She were trying to teach him, how to do this, that she might help him, help Lin. As a teacher, it were not her job to do everything after all. He would learn nothing from that, and that were not her way of doing things. She were a teacher in her youth, and as an elder, she considered herself to be if anything, even more of a teacher than she were before that. Just that instead of a classroom, she now had villages to teach, and generations that would end up seeing her words and acts written down, that would inform them long after she were dead.

Some like her, took that duty stoically, and with seriousness. Others... Well, Elder Gao were not the only one who were more aloof in it, though even he were a good teacher, and figurehead, when he were required to be so. All of them were, or they would be unsuited for leading their kin.

"As for where to go from here, if this were the memory that needed to be repaired, then a path should open for us, to move on to the next island. If not, we still need to encounter another memory."

This seemed an important memory, and if so, fixing it, should have opened a path in some way. Be it a bridge, a rope, a point one could touch, and be transported- This were Lin's mind, and not everyone had connecting points that were the same. For all she knew, they'd find a platform they could stand upon, that would then float to the next area. And on the next island as it were, they'd find Omen. It would act like her at least, though she looked... Odd, if it were her. A ball of yarn that seemed to bounce in place, a third the size of Sen. There were a movement in front of the yarn, indicating the likeliness of a face, and two large, fluffy and floppy at the end bunny ears adorning the head, equal in height to the yarn itself, whilst the end of the yarn were flayed and looked like a swaying tail sort of, if you narrowed your eyes a bit and looked hard.

Also seemed to be a couple of knitting rods through her from the sides, meeting in a cross within hers, in the same color and design, as Elder Zhao's visage in here were. As for the proof this might be Omen? A small tongue would stick out, and lick an object there, and the ball of yarn would then go motionless for a moment, before doing it again, rinse and repeat. Likely a memory that she were observing.

On the way to the next island though (provided the path were open) Elder Zhao would ask a question of Sen though. Something she wished to know, before they met up with Omen.

"I would like to ask, what were that towering creature, in the memory before? I could tell she were real, but never have I seen her likeness, nor heard of it either."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

"I am afraid you would have to take up that discussion with her, to get more specific details about that. I am not greatly familiar with things regarding changelings, and as such, are not qualified to say whatever these shards you mentioned, would have any kind of effect on them. Though I do find it curious you say they are more feral when away from them. I've met some changelings in my days, and more still after King Thorax's ascension to the throne of Chrysalis's former hive, and I wouldn't describe those I have seen as feral. Most were either cunning, or afraid, due to their covers being blown.

Are you certain you don't think about them simply being more ruthless during a hunt? I could see that being the case, where being more feral away from home wouldn't. They'd hardly be all that good at infiltrating and mimic others, if they could not stray, without losing some of their personal control.

But as said, I am no expert. I can judge but what I see, and the grain of truth I sometimes gleam from what I hear of them. If you wish to have a more in depth talk of this, you should go and speak with Doctor Toxina at some point, and ask her personally. As a recent arrival, with an extensive medical history, she can answer these things well on her own."

He hadn't heard talks of various worlds and such, before arriving, or he might have suggested that the rules were different in some worlds, over others, but that were still just speculation. If Light wanted facts, he would need to go and see the renowned doctor, that had decided to put down roots here for a time, after yet another trip into the world, to broaden her medical knowledge. She were perhaps busy, but at least he might be able to schedule a meeting, or have a brief interaction. Depended on how things looked, and things were likely okay. Some bruises and such he heard, but not a whole lot of serious injuries, after all this mess. Not beyond Harpoon, Onache, and the elderly couple, of course.

"If you know remedies for changelings she doesn't though, I'm sure the insight would be welcome. They're starting to try and integrate into our society, so whatever knowledge on hoof the hospital could have for their care, the better prepared they may be."

" hmmm... my facts are from the original time line.... theres a low chance that they'd deviate from that, but still possible." He ponders.

" maybe i should take a visit to Toxina when i have the time." He nods in agreement.

@Catpone Cerberus @Blitz Boom

[Catpone Cerberus 23,588]

@Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp
The two kobolds nodded at Stargazer's instructions, and didn't comment on it, however, Chega quietly said something to the siblings, in language that the others couldn't understand, that was similar, yet clearly different to the one the twins used to talk to each other privately, if anyone had paid enough attention to notice such detail. The siblings responded to it with a short response, which based on tone of voice was most likely something along the lines of 'okay'.   

"I don't know if that guard is either Solar or Night guard here, though he was a solar guard in our world, the sun on his flank is hard to ignore." "I'm sure you've met him, the one that's more metal than pony, hard to miss." "And jurisdiction or not, it would be hard even for corrupt legal system to blame two chained up prisoners for death by being crushed under rubble."  their tones of voice made clear that they didn't particularly care for the guard they talked about.

"For Onache, we did get to know her better, before the whole ending up in the hospital thing." "You ponies keep mixing connections with being close" "Our closest allies have been individuals we would never call friends, emotional closeness is not required for cooperation." "Besides, the feeling is mutual, Onache has been very open about the fact that our relationship is merely an alliance for mutual benefit." It was an interesting contradiction, kobolds, a species obsessed with cooperation, family, loyalty, and everything else one would connect to friendship and emotional closeness, were looking at ponies and going, 'this your friendship thing, it's silly'

For rest, none of the four said anything, they already knew the story of the fungus, as they had been there when it had been explained in the hospital, so they had nothing to say on that, and for the changeling shard topic, none of them knew that much about changelings, so they had nothing to add to that either.
Only thing was Sheska thinking back to things she had read about feral kobolds at some point of time, something that was rare and very poorly understood. It may have been bit selfish to bring everything back to their own species, even if it was just in their minds, but then again, they didn't exactly hide that fact that they were to certain extend 'species-ists', with the loyalty to their own kind going above even love. 

There was one question they wanted to ask though, or well, Trox wanted, and he would ask it when the other conversation died down "I have one question, though I understand if you can't answer it due to confidentiality, have you gotten any warnings, reports, or whatever, about individuals you 'regular' guard should avoid?" "Especially about one that is bipedal and around the size of a kobold?" he was just curious, they knew Sheez would be coming to them, they had seen her in Solar's recording, and had caught one of her drones, but he was curious if she had made herself known, or if she was still hiding in the shadows. 

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

Ruby was surprised by Leviathan's reaction, not necessarily the laughter itself, but what was seemingly the part that was so funny, since her saying lizard was probably the only thing that she hadn't meant as a joke, since Leviathan did taste like a dragon, which to Ruby, was included in 'lizard', since it was used derogatorily towards dragons all the time. "Maybe if you visited the sea more often, you'd taste more like a fish." she remarked. 

While Ruby appreciated Leviathan asking for permission, and would have been at least momentarily annoyed if she had suddenly jumped for a hug, mainly due to her being in her pony form, and thus more physically vulnerable, Leviathan was still misreading her, because while it was true she could rip her apart without much thought, was the whole pony-act not a testament to her patience? "Go ahead, but don't expect me to return the favor." she responded without too much hesitation, and her word would ring true, as if/when Leviathan would hug Ruby, she would just stand still.

Luckily for Ruby, there was nobody around that could see past her outer shell, as the hug would do something inside, so deep that even Charir couldn't spot a change, and what it was? she didn't know, nor did she know if it was good or bad, as it kinda burned. She couldn't have put it in words if asked to, but if Leviathan would have been able to see her eyes, she could have recognized it, as it was the same thing Charir had gone through when first shown kindness by her, the only difference was, that while for Charir it had been the first time in 20 or so years, for Ruby, it had been almost 200. She found it almost funny actually, all the things she had gone through in her life, and this, a pointless gesture created by weaker creatures, was the thing that made her question her willpower. 

Though, as was her nature, she tried to downplay things "I don't know if this is that different from what I usually do, the intent is just different." "With slight chance of tone, all of that would have been insults and threats, no?" she didn't actually sound like she was that sure about it. 

Speaking of Charir, he did notice Leviathan starting to form electricity, but he didn't go up to her and try to take it, because frankly, that would have been rude, and he didn't want to interrupt whatever was going on, because as weird as it was, whatever it was they were doing, he could tell Leviathan was happy, and even Ruby seemed....less hostile, which to him was great, because it meant she was different than their mother. 

However, he did take the opportunity to try things, as he lifted one of his front legs and reached it towards Leviathan from the distance, then focusing as hard as he could, trying to pull the electricity to him. He tried everything from repeating words in his head, to just trying to feel the electricity, and surprisingly enough, something did happen, though it wasn't obvious at first.  He didn't pull lightning from Leviathan, nor did he visibly start forming electricity himself either, rather, he felt something in his claws, at which point he stopped and looked at them, and saw nothing, yet the feeling didn't go away, so he kinda just stared at his claws for some moments, before half-accidentally touching two claws together, which made a small spark. He was taken bit off guard by it, but was happy, because while he wasn't sure how it happened, nor could he make another spark right after, he had done something.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-10-15 at 6:25 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"For a first try, you did well. There are some rough edges, but when her mind is her own again, her own memories will fill in the blanks, and correct things around this. For the time being, it serves as a good stand-in for her own.

Continue to listen and learn as we proceed, and this will go smoother than I had anticipated."

“Thank you for your guidance, but it looks like there is more to do. And by the way things look, I believe that might be our way forward.”

With the crystal structure having been restored through the transfer of true memories, the way forward was much clearer. It manifested as a glowing path, transparent in appearance similar to clear glass, then giving way to a more noticeably solid form. The rest of it turned into a more frosted appearance, though it would remain warm to the touch. The central structure further ahead, a visceral and seemingly living neuron-like nucleus was what Sen gathered to be the source of the blocks, as one tentacle receded, followed by a loud and angry roar. 

“Something sounded angered just now. Whatever it was, it knows we’re up to something…”

There, the longma paused, scanning around for threats, but nothing of the sort appeared. It was only Zhao’s question that got him to avoid thinking about the present concern and possible danger.

On 2023-10-15 at 6:25 AM, Blitz Boom said:

On the way to the next island though (provided the path were open) Elder Zhao would ask a question of Sen though. Something she wished to know, before they met up with Omen.

"I would like to ask, what were that towering creature, in the memory before? I could tell she were real, but never have I seen her likeness, nor heard of it either."

“The towering creature? That’s Mother, Omen’s mother, as well as mine and Lin’s, in a way. I know it looks odd, but she is a comforting presence in moments of uncertainty, guiding us whenever we need her help. Some time back, she took us in when we helped out Omen and also got Lin a new body.”

“She doesn’t reveal herself, as she remains within her own realm. However, if I could bring us back to your words earlier about trust for a moment, can I also trust you to keep knowledge of her a secret and not look for her?  I am afraid of what might find its way into her realm, and back then, something did worm its way into her realm. Mother is powerful, but I don’t want anything untoward that could cause her harm to find its way to her or her children. Please forgive me if I am holding back on information, but understand that I am only doing what I can to protect her and those dear to her.”

Perhaps there was more to say about Mother, but the longma didn't want any trouble to arise from disclosing information about her other than speaking of things that happened when Malvernis's influence or Legion's possession manifested within Mother's shadowy realm. A powerful creature she was, and one that no one ought to trifle with, but she had a kind heart. It was always difficult to see her sad or in pain, and that was what Sen wanted to avoid. As much as he was being so hesitant to divulge more details, he only hoped Elder Zhao understood the why and trusted that whatever he could say would be enough, even as a secret.

Sen constantly kept himself ready, occasionally moving just a few steps ahead to see if something was coming, though nothing would arrive. The longma remained cautious for anything that could come to face him and Elder Zhao, but for now, it was clear and safe. On the other side of the bridge was another island with no visible connections or anything that would clearly indicate it as another memory. What was present was a ball of yarn, knitting needles, and a… tail? Sen wasn’t sure what to make of it, though going by Elder Zhao’s words earlier, it was either Omen or something that could be construed as a point where a memory needed to be restored. 

“Hmm… another memory? Or something different? Wait, you mentioned something about working with a ball of yarn. Could that mean that this is Omen?” 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-10-16 at 4:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Thank you for your guidance, but it looks like there is more to do. And by the way things look, I believe that might be our way forward.”

With the crystal structure having been restored through the transfer of true memories, the way forward was much clearer. It manifested as a glowing path, transparent in appearance similar to clear glass, then giving way to a more noticeably solid form. The rest of it turned into a more frosted appearance, though it would remain warm to the touch. The central structure further ahead, a visceral and seemingly living neuron-like nucleus was what Sen gathered to be the source of the blocks, as one tentacle receded, followed by a loud and angry roar. 

“Something sounded angered just now. Whatever it was, it knows we’re up to something…”

"I would think it the presence that is trying to subvert her mind. It appears that it is an active one, rather than an inactive one. How annoying. Still though, I do not suspect it to become an issue yet. Eventually though, given a crystal or two more. I will prepare to act accordingly, when that is. You are not trained enough in how the subconscious works, to have the upper paw yourself. If it comes to it though, I will likely be occupied, so make sure to remember the lessons you will learn. You may not have me looking over your shoulder all trip."

Ideally it would not be needed for her to take off to handle such things, but she didn't know how strong this presence were, and thus, could not rule out that they may have a fight that went beyond the boundaries of what island they may be on at the time.

On 2023-10-16 at 4:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“The towering creature? That’s Mother, Omen’s mother, as well as mine and Lin’s, in a way. I know it looks odd, but she is a comforting presence in moments of uncertainty, guiding us whenever we need her help. Some time back, she took us in when we helped out Omen and also got Lin a new body.”

“She doesn’t reveal herself, as she remains within her own realm. However, if I could bring us back to your words earlier about trust for a moment, can I also trust you to keep knowledge of her a secret and not look for her?  I am afraid of what might find its way into her realm, and back then, something did worm its way into her realm. Mother is powerful, but I don’t want anything untoward that could cause her harm to find its way to her or her children. Please forgive me if I am holding back on information, but understand that I am only doing what I can to protect her and those dear to her.”

"Peculiar. I had assumed Discord had simply made Omen, not spawned one with another creature. And one who sounds quite powerful at that. I would like to know more of her, at a more opportune time.

Yet we kitsune know the merit of staying hidden, out of sight of everyone. If she wishes for privacy, it will not be me who tells others of her. But I will make a formal request that either of you bring her word, that I would like an audience. I am curious what kind of creature she is, from your description thus far.

Let this be a lesson, from one in their twilight years: Life is finite, and stagnation is a waste of life. There should always be something to seek out. Sights to see, beings to meet, and knowledge to learn from. Us of higher sentience, are destined to be curious. We are born with a want to learn of the world we are in, and it should be embraced. Within certain safety limits that is..

So I wish to meet her, not to try and oust her, or gain something, but to experience, and learn from her. I have little use for something frivolous, like a new body. I am perfectly accepting of my inevitable end."

Though one could always think they had not done enough, death itself were not something to fear, lest you had been a monster, that were destined for a darker afterlife. She were not perfect, and had done things she had regretted, but she did not think of it. What happened when her time would come, would be a new adventure upon itself. A new frontier to explore and learn from, and she would welcome that as the new experience that it were.

That said, she still had several years in her, before a natural death of old age would try and claim her. And in that time, she'd prefer not to stagnate, and actively learn something new, when presented with the option. It were merely that she had experienced so much, that it were not simple to find new experiences anymore. This were different though, and it intrigued her.

On 2023-10-16 at 4:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Hmm… another memory? Or something different? Wait, you mentioned something about working with a ball of yarn. Could that mean that this is Omen?”

The ball would stop licking the crystal as it heard Sen's voice, and would turn around, to reveal a pair of stitched on, pale eyes, and a mouth made from string, wherein the tongue dangled out, too big to fit.

"You look tall, brother."

Her voice where actually audible here. Low and raspy, but still, she were speaking, in the traditional sense. And it were indeed Omen, oddly as she may look currently.

"I told you, a large cat, and a ball of yarn. And I meant that quite literally. Took me a while just to distract the cat long enough to make a connection with the ball of yarn. It were frankly quite irritating, but yet it worked, more or less."

Omen would bounce in place, having figured out how to move fairly easily, and would look up at them both, as curious and neutral as ever. This were quite a strange place, with strange things to experience for her, and the point of view made things simply stranger.

"Have you seen anything peculiar?"

"I touched the crystal. It looks like something with sister, but wrong. Something is not right."

"Hmm, well, we'd need to see that, to make sure. Would you be ready, Sen?"

Soon as all were, she'd tell Omen to touch the crystal, same time as they did. This however, were not guaranteed to be a primary memory, nor even an altered one. To Omen, seeing things through others eyes, were strange in general. Could be Lin out speaking with Hammond earlier, or eating a potato. Who knew? Well, they would, in a moment, but it was more of a rhetorical question anyway.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-10-15 at 1:05 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

" hmmm... my facts are from the original time line.... theres a low chance that they'd deviate from that, but still possible." He ponders.

" maybe i should take a visit to Toxina when i have the time." He nods in agreement.

"I am certain she would appreciate the interest, and if you do turn out to have another idea for treatment plans, that could be useful as well. She is the only doctor Ponyville currently have, familiar with more exotic races. Dragons, griffons and ponies are one thing, but more remote ones, such as evergrown, changelings, and yes, even kobolds, are not something that the locals have familiarity with. She will teach them, as I have been told, but if you end up knowing things she does not, I am certain she would appreciate the insight."

He did not presume to speak for her, but he knew of her reputation, and in the short time they had spoken, the doctor had sounded like a wise mare, who both wished to teach, and to learn, to improve the knowledge that doctors in Equestria and beyond, could have. She did not hide anything from anyone when it were, which had gotten her looked upon poorly by some higher standing creatures, in various countries. Sadly there were those who believed that the best treatments, should only be for those who could afford it. In some cases, that came via having patents and exclusivity for certain medications, but she never let that happen. Didn't matter how much she were offered, she refused to sign on with anyone exclusively, and if she found medication, she would be open about it, and share the knowledge with the hospitals she could get things in circulation with. She refused to let money decide who deserved to be healthy, no matter what enemies that got her.

On 2023-10-15 at 1:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I don't know if that guard is either Solar or Night guard here, though he was a solar guard in our world, the sun on his flank is hard to ignore." "I'm sure you've met him, the one that's more metal than pony, hard to miss." "And jurisdiction or not, it would be hard even for corrupt legal system to blame two chained up prisoners for death by being crushed under rubble."  their tones of voice made clear that they didn't particularly care for the guard they talked about.

"For Onache, we did get to know her better, before the whole ending up in the hospital thing." "You ponies keep mixing connections with being close" "Our closest allies have been individuals we would never call friends, emotional closeness is not required for cooperation." "Besides, the feeling is mutual, Onache has been very open about the fact that our relationship is merely an alliance for mutual benefit."

"In fairness, I've not been sleeping much lately, so I may not be working at my best capacity. Still, it is no reason to be rude, so I apologize about making assumptions. What connection you three have, is not something for me to analyze, and draw my own conclusions from.

And I have met the one you talk about, yes. Not gotten his name though. I only saw him in passing, and I were hoping to get home, and get some sleep at the time. Things did not end up being that easy unfortunately. I were planning on having a chat with him too at some point. See whom he might be, because I have met many Solar Guards in Canterlot, and he were not one of them. The sometimes complicated feelings between the Solar and Night guards aside, it is good to know whom you have to work with, in a given case.

I'll give him the benefit of the doubt though. if General Dew let him operate here, then I trust he had reason to. Though I will step in if he does try to pin something on you, if you worry of that. You have my word, for what it is worth."

He got the distinct feeling that they didn't think highly of anypony wearing a uniform. He'd assume they had some personal reason for that, and wouldn't pry, nor assume they would take his word for much. He hadn't really done anything that would show them that he were fully trustworthy, and for some, actions spoke louder than words. Perhaps another time, if they ended up being here for long enough, they'd see that he were less gruff than he looked. Though granted, he used to be a criminal, in his youth, so he were not squeaky clean.

On 2023-10-15 at 1:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

There was one question they wanted to ask though, or well, Trox wanted, and he would ask it when the other conversation died down "I have one question, though I understand if you can't answer it due to confidentiality, have you gotten any warnings, reports, or whatever, about individuals you 'regular' guard should avoid?" "Especially about one that is bipedal and around the size of a kobold?" he was just curious, they knew Sheez would be coming to them, they had seen her in Solar's recording, and had caught one of her drones, but he was curious if she had made herself known, or if she was still hiding in the shadows. 

Stargazer would look at Trox, being silent for a moment before answering anything. It seemed to be something that weighed on his mind. Something important to him perhaps? Hmm...

"...There is nothing confidential bout what I've heard, but keep in mind that everything I have heard recently, were second-hoof, from other guards passing through. In this case, the ones helping at the school recently.

They confused it when I said there were a highly dangerous, hostile entity in town, with somepony run into up in northern direction, some time past. They didn't say a lot, but apparently, the general himself have given a direct warning, about a highly dangerous individual. You'd need to speak with them to get more of an idea of the details though.

All I can say, is that you are the first and only kobolds I have seen in Ponyville."

He wish he could help them, but his information were limited currently. They would be better off speaking to the others. They might have some of the answers the kobolds sought.

He considered asking why they sought one dangerous enough to warrant caution from the guards as a whole, but he honestly did not want to know right now. He had enough to keep him up as it were, and having more might just make it harder to sleep.

If there were nothing more, he really should be on his way. Jelly would soon enough start to get worried for him, and he did not want her to go through that for more than she had to.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2023-10-15 at 1:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby was surprised by Leviathan's reaction, not necessarily the laughter itself, but what was seemingly the part that was so funny, since her saying lizard was probably the only thing that she hadn't meant as a joke, since Leviathan did taste like a dragon, which to Ruby, was included in 'lizard', since it was used derogatorily towards dragons all the time. "Maybe if you visited the sea more often, you'd taste more like a fish." she remarked. 

"Well the next time we're near a shore, I might just drag you in for a nice swim then. Give you a taste of my domain for a change. Don't worry, I promise I won't rinse off the salt."

She were still joking here, as it seemed Ruby were int he mood for that too, which were great! And this seemed a harmless thing. Just inviting her to a swim. Potentially without her consent, but her real form were big enough that she could hold Leviathan by the tail and more or less dangle her upside down. Physically speaking, Leviathan couldn't make her do diddly squat she didn't want to, so the *threat* were essentially toothless.

On 2023-10-15 at 1:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Though, as was her nature, she tried to downplay things "I don't know if this is that different from what I usually do, the intent is just different." "With slight chance of tone, all of that would have been insults and threats, no?" she didn't actually sound like she was that sure about it. 

Leviathan jumped in the second she got permission, not even listening much to, or caring about her not getting a hug back. Ruby had made it clear what she thought about these things, and that were fine. She didn't have to give one back. Not everything had to be something for something y'know. It could just be a nice, friendly gesture of happiness, from one being to another. Though she'd lie if she said she wouldn't have liked if Ruby gave one back. Honestly something she would've enjoyed greatly, but maybe sometimes in the future, yeah? For now, it were all her, and she were not hiding how well she liked this, at all. Her tail were wagging, the grin on her face nearly radiant- This was so good a time, she even forgot that she were somewhat exhausted from earlier.

Yes it was a pintless gesture and bla. bla. bla. Didn't matter, it were the thought that counted. As well as the fact that honestly, she had to agree with the ponies that this were pretty nice. Not something she'd just do to anyone, but Ruby weren't just anyone. She were her special little ray of gloomshine, and she cared deeply for her. As did she with Charir, but this were different. Him she kinda looked at like.. Well, her whelp wouldn't really fir, as he were a young, mature dragon in his own right. Maybe more like the adorable baby brother she never had. Ruby... She couldn't describe it, but she honestly didn't think she'd felt this warm and fuzzy around another dragon before. Sure she acted like an idiot at times, and she had given hugs before, but this were special, in some way.

As Ruby said this though, Leviathan would pull back, and grin widely at Ruby.

"Well of course tone is important. Like saying *I know where you live* or *You sure have a lovely family*. Goes from friendly to sinister, with a mere change of tone. Or how I tried to speak your language to Charir, and the tone made me sound less threatening than usual, like you said at the time. I bet Charir remembers that well. If you two had more humor, I bet you would've laughed in my face at it even, and I couldn't blame you, because it probably looked hilarious."

She'd turn around to have a little look at him. It were just meant to be a small one, to cement her point, but then... She saw it.

On 2023-10-15 at 1:46 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

However, he did take the opportunity to try things, as he lifted one of his front legs and reached it towards Leviathan from the distance, then focusing as hard as he could, trying to pull the electricity to him. He tried everything from repeating words in his head, to just trying to feel the electricity, and surprisingly enough, something did happen, though it wasn't obvious at first.  He didn't pull lightning from Leviathan, nor did he visibly start forming electricity himself either, rather, he felt something in his claws, at which point he stopped and looked at them, and saw nothing, yet the feeling didn't go away, so he kinda just stared at his claws for some moments, before half-accidentally touching two claws together, which made a small spark. He was taken bit off guard by it, but was happy, because while he wasn't sure how it happened, nor could he make another spark right after, he had done something.

Her hands would clench to fists, and gather in front of her mouth, pam inwards, and light nearly shone in her eyes, as she saw the smallest widdle spark between his claws. It were weak, and couldn't even electrocute a molecule probably, but what were the first time she had seen him generate electricity himself. *sniff* He were growing up so fast. Barely learning he could harness magic a few days past, and now here he were, starting off with a spark of his own. And he hadn't even gotten a proper lesson yet. She were so proud of her little whelp.

...it might be hard to keep up that she only saw him as some sort of younger brother, like Ruby literally did, when she kept being so... Enthusiastic about it when she saw him making progress in things. Ruby had nothing to worry off though. It weren't the same way as her. She were literally just fawning like an impressionable aunt, or parent.

"He made a spark! Did you see that? He had an actual spark between his claws. He generated magic, and he didn't even get his first lesson yet. He's gonna be a great magic user someday, I just know it. A sparkling little heart-crusher, frying his enemies alive from the inside out. *sniff* I could almost cry."

They might not be as brutal as where Ruby and Charir came from, outside of that place, but there were still a fair bit of violence in courtship, among some of them. She certainly knew some fire dragons, who'd fawn over someone smashing through a rock wall, and making some nitwit into charcoal. Usually the same who thought that bringing the fresh carcass of a great enemy, were as romantic as a bouquet of roses.

Were she one of those? No, not particularly. Though she did like seeing brutally effective destruction at times. She wasn't completely without her feral, less than civilized wants and needs, every so often.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

2 minutes ago, Blitz Boom said:

@EQ_Theta

"I would think it the presence that is trying to subvert her mind. It appears that it is an active one, rather than an inactive one. How annoying. Still though, I do not suspect it to become an issue yet. Eventually though, given a crystal or two more. I will prepare to act accordingly, when that is. You are not trained enough in how the subconscious works, to have the upper paw yourself. If it comes to it though, I will likely be occupied, so make sure to remember the lessons you will learn. You may not have me looking over your shoulder all trip."

Ideally it would not be needed for her to take off to handle such things, but she didn't know how strong this presence were, and thus, could not rule out that they may have a fight that went beyond the boundaries of what island they may be on at the time.

"Peculiar. I had assumed Discord had simply made Omen, not spawned one with another creature. And one who sounds quite powerful at that. I would like to know more of her, at a more opportune time.

Yet we kitsune know the merit of staying hidden, out of sight of everyone. If she wishes for privacy, it will not be me who tells others of her. But I will make a formal request that either of you bring her word, that I would like an audience. I am curious what kind of creature she is, from your description thus far.

Let this be a lesson, from one in their twilight years: Life is finite, and stagnation is a waste of life. There should always be something to seek out. Sights to see, beings to meet, and knowledge to learn from. Us of higher sentience, are destined to be curious. We are born with a want to learn of the world we are in, and it should be embraced. Within certain safety limits that is..

So I wish to meet her, not to try and oust her, or gain something, but to experience, and learn from her. I have little use for something frivolous, like a new body. I am perfectly accepting of my inevitable end."

Though one could always think they had not done enough, death itself were not something to fear, lest you had been a monster, that were destined for a darker afterlife. She were not perfect, and had done things she had regretted, but she did not think of it. What happened when her time would come, would be a new adventure upon itself. A new frontier to explore and learn from, and she would welcome that as the new experience that it were.

That said, she still had several years in her, before a natural death of old age would try and claim her. And in that time, she'd prefer not to stagnate, and actively learn something new, when presented with the option. It were merely that she had experienced so much, that it were not simple to find new experiences anymore. This were different though, and it intrigued her.

The ball would stop licking the crystal as it heard Sen's voice, and would turn around, to reveal a pair of stitched on, pale eyes, and a mouth made from string, wherein the tongue dangled out, too big to fit.

"You look tall, brother."

Her voice where actually audible here. Low and raspy, but still, she were speaking, in the traditional sense. And it were indeed Omen, oddly as she may look currently.

"I told you, a large cat, and a ball of yarn. And I meant that quite literally. Took me a while just to distract the cat long enough to make a connection with the ball of yarn. It were frankly quite irritating, but yet it worked, more or less."

Omen would bounce in place, having figured out how to move fairly easily, and would look up at them both, as curious and neutral as ever. This were quite a strange place, with strange things to experience for her, and the point of view made things simply stranger.

"Have you seen anything peculiar?"

"I touched the crystal. It looks like something with sister, but wrong. Something is not right."

"Hmm, well, we'd need to see that, to make sure. Would you be ready, Sen?"

Soon as all were, she'd tell Omen to touch the crystal, same time as they did. This however, were not guaranteed to be a primary memory, nor even an altered one. To Omen, seeing things through others eyes, were strange in general. Could be Lin out speaking with Hammond earlier, or eating a potato. Who knew? Well, they would, in a moment, but it was more of a rhetorical question anyway.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

"I am certain she would appreciate the interest, and if you do turn out to have another idea for treatment plans, that could be useful as well. She is the only doctor Ponyville currently have, familiar with more exotic races. Dragons, griffons and ponies are one thing, but more remote ones, such as evergrown, changelings, and yes, even kobolds, are not something that the locals have familiarity with. She will teach them, as I have been told, but if you end up knowing things she does not, I am certain she would appreciate the insight."

He did not presume to speak for her, but he knew of her reputation, and in the short time they had spoken, the doctor had sounded like a wise mare, who both wished to teach, and to learn, to improve the knowledge that doctors in Equestria and beyond, could have. She did not hide anything from anyone when it were, which had gotten her looked upon poorly by some higher standing creatures, in various countries. Sadly there were those who believed that the best treatments, should only be for those who could afford it. In some cases, that came via having patents and exclusivity for certain medications, but she never let that happen. Didn't matter how much she were offered, she refused to sign on with anyone exclusively, and if she found medication, she would be open about it, and share the knowledge with the hospitals she could get things in circulation with. She refused to let money decide who deserved to be healthy, no matter what enemies that got her.

"In fairness, I've not been sleeping much lately, so I may not be working at my best capacity. Still, it is no reason to be rude, so I apologize about making assumptions. What connection you three have, is not something for me to analyze, and draw my own conclusions from.

And I have met the one you talk about, yes. Not gotten his name though. I only saw him in passing, and I were hoping to get home, and get some sleep at the time. Things did not end up being that easy unfortunately. I were planning on having a chat with him too at some point. See whom he might be, because I have met many Solar Guards in Canterlot, and he were not one of them. The sometimes complicated feelings between the Solar and Night guards aside, it is good to know whom you have to work with, in a given case.

I'll give him the benefit of the doubt though. if General Dew let him operate here, then I trust he had reason to. Though I will step in if he does try to pin something on you, if you worry of that. You have my word, for what it is worth."

He got the distinct feeling that they didn't think highly of anypony wearing a uniform. He'd assume they had some personal reason for that, and wouldn't pry, nor assume they would take his word for much. He hadn't really done anything that would show them that he were fully trustworthy, and for some, actions spoke louder than words. Perhaps another time, if they ended up being here for long enough, they'd see that he were less gruff than he looked. Though granted, he used to be a criminal, in his youth, so he were not squeaky clean.

Stargazer would look at Trox, being silent for a moment before answering anything. It seemed to be something that weighed on his mind. Something important to him perhaps? Hmm...

"...There is nothing confidential bout what I've heard, but keep in mind that everything I have heard recently, were second-hoof, from other guards passing through. In this case, the ones helping at the school recently.

They confused it when I said there were a highly dangerous, hostile entity in town, with somepony run into up in northern direction, some time past. They didn't say a lot, but apparently, the general himself have given a direct warning, about a highly dangerous individual. You'd need to speak with them to get more of an idea of the details though.

All I can say, is that you are the first and only kobolds I have seen in Ponyville."

He wish he could help them, but his information were limited currently. They would be better off speaking to the others. They might have some of the answers the kobolds sought.

He considered asking why they sought one dangerous enough to warrant caution from the guards as a whole, but he honestly did not want to know right now. He had enough to keep him up as it were, and having more might just make it harder to sleep.

If there were nothing more, he really should be on his way. Jelly would soon enough start to get worried for him, and he did not want her to go through that for more than she had to.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Well the next time we're near a shore, I might just drag you in for a nice swim then. Give you a taste of my domain for a change. Don't worry, I promise I won't rinse off the salt."

She were still joking here, as it seemed Ruby were int he mood for that too, which were great! And this seemed a harmless thing. Just inviting her to a swim. Potentially without her consent, but her real form were big enough that she could hold Leviathan by the tail and more or less dangle her upside down. Physically speaking, Leviathan couldn't make her do diddly squat she didn't want to, so the *threat* were essentially toothless.

Leviathan jumped in the second she got permission, not even listening much to, or caring about her not getting a hug back. Ruby had made it clear what she thought about these things, and that were fine. She didn't have to give one back. Not everything had to be something for something y'know. It could just be a nice, friendly gesture of happiness, from one being to another. Though she'd lie if she said she wouldn't have liked if Ruby gave one back. Honestly something she would've enjoyed greatly, but maybe sometimes in the future, yeah? For now, it were all her, and she were not hiding how well she liked this, at all. Her tail were wagging, the grin on her face nearly radiant- This was so good a time, she even forgot that she were somewhat exhausted from earlier.

Yes it was a pintless gesture and bla. bla. bla. Didn't matter, it were the thought that counted. As well as the fact that honestly, she had to agree with the ponies that this were pretty nice. Not something she'd just do to anyone, but Ruby weren't just anyone. She were her special little ray of gloomshine, and she cared deeply for her. As did she with Charir, but this were different. Him she kinda looked at like.. Well, her whelp wouldn't really fir, as he were a young, mature dragon in his own right. Maybe more like the adorable baby brother she never had. Ruby... She couldn't describe it, but she honestly didn't think she'd felt this warm and fuzzy around another dragon before. Sure she acted like an idiot at times, and she had given hugs before, but this were special, in some way.

As Ruby said this though, Leviathan would pull back, and grin widely at Ruby.

"Well of course tone is important. Like saying *I know where you live* or *You sure have a lovely family*. Goes from friendly to sinister, with a mere change of tone. Or how I tried to speak your language to Charir, and the tone made me sound less threatening than usual, like you said at the time. I bet Charir remembers that well. If you two had more humor, I bet you would've laughed in my face at it even, and I couldn't blame you, because it probably looked hilarious."

She'd turn around to have a little look at him. It were just meant to be a small one, to cement her point, but then... She saw it.

Her hands would clench to fists, and gather in front of her mouth, pam inwards, and light nearly shone in her eyes, as she saw the smallest widdle spark between his claws. It were weak, and couldn't even electrocute a molecule probably, but what were the first time she had seen him generate electricity himself. *sniff* He were growing up so fast. Barely learning he could harness magic a few days past, and now here he were, starting off with a spark of his own. And he hadn't even gotten a proper lesson yet. She were so proud of her little whelp.

...it might be hard to keep up that she only saw him as some sort of younger brother, like Ruby literally did, when she kept being so... Enthusiastic about it when she saw him making progress in things. Ruby had nothing to worry off though. It weren't the same way as her. She were literally just fawning like an impressionable aunt, or parent.

"He made a spark! Did you see that? He had an actual spark between his claws. He generated magic, and he didn't even get his first lesson yet. He's gonna be a great magic user someday, I just know it. A sparkling little heart-crusher, frying his enemies alive from the inside out. *sniff* I could almost cry."

They might not be as brutal as where Ruby and Charir came from, outside of that place, but there were still a fair bit of violence in courtship, among some of them. She certainly knew some fire dragons, who'd fawn over someone smashing through a rock wall, and making some nitwit into charcoal. Usually the same who thought that bringing the fresh carcass of a great enemy, were as romantic as a bouquet of roses.

Were she one of those? No, not particularly. Though she did like seeing brutally effective destruction at times. She wasn't completely without her feral, less than civilized wants and needs, every so often.

He proceeds to drink his coffee.

( i got nothing)

[Rising Dusk 27,511]

@Blitz Boom

"Ah, yes. vanity.  Very difficult to let go of.  Especially when in the top tier of one's craft.  Few believe when their time is up, their time to dazzle and grace the lime light has passed.  Hanging up the dress though, you just know when it's come.  Age catches up with all, and when your job is one of precise physical movements, the body just cannot keep up.  Your flexibility becomes tight, your speed stalls, your strength just leaves.  With a proud heart, you'll give your final bow and depart with the same grace you gave the land.  At least that's what I teach my students."

With all said and done, the Queen gave all at the table her own grace to eat.  Now released from his wife's kick, the father of the family was the first to dig into their food.  The rest followed suite to sample the dishes presented to them at the royal dining table.  They listened to Necrotic's explanation to the royal family's choice of menu, to give back to the creatures of Harrowmark and their celebration.  Very noble of the royal family and a great boon to a land held under such dark tranny from so long.  The creatures will remember this for so long to come.  "Ho ho ho.  It's delightful!" Star expressed with his usual joyous self.

The bring up of wine perked the interest of Grance and Dawn.  Far more experienced in the realm of wine, in Equestria at least.  Rising had a muted palate for such things and rarely drank, but this was a special occasion.  Best of all though, especially for Star, this wine came with a story, a mystery more like it.  Truths they may never know.  In addition to the story, it came with a show as the servants had to work as a team to open the bottle for the guests.  Rising sense was on alter, but found nothing interesting, beyond the gems being used to test the drink for poison.  That could be useful even in Equestria, although any thought of doing so to their own Princesses was difficult to truly comprehend.  Along with any though on how resistant a being like an Alicorn could be to such things.  Dawn gave a quick glance at her brother, but couldn't feel any distress from their connection.  Which was enough for her to know magically at least, it were safe.

The family accepted the offering of the strange Kraken Wine.  "This is, an experience alright," Dawn agreed with the Prince.  She lightly smacked her lips, being the member of the family with the wider range in experience with these.  Equestria, however, did not have wines that worked this way.  Relying more on sweet and subtle than trying to bring about, well she couldn't quite describe what the drink was trying to bring about.  "This is, something," it weren't bad at all, but just as mysterious as the story they were told.

[EQ_Theta 457]

@Blitz Boom

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

 

"Peculiar. I had assumed Discord had simply made Omen, not spawned one with another creature. And one who sounds quite powerful at that. I would like to know more of her, at a more opportune time.

Yet we kitsune know the merit of staying hidden, out of sight of everyone. If she wishes for privacy, it will not be me who tells others of her. But I will make a formal request that either of you bring her word, that I would like an audience. I am curious what kind of creature she is, from your description thus far.

Let this be a lesson, from one in their twilight years: Life is finite, and stagnation is a waste of life. There should always be something to seek out. Sights to see, beings to meet, and knowledge to learn from. Us of higher sentience, are destined to be curious. We are born with a want to learn of the world we are in, and it should be embraced. Within certain safety limits that is..

So I wish to meet her, not to try and oust her, or gain something, but to experience, and learn from her. I have little use for something frivolous, like a new body. I am perfectly accepting of my inevitable end."

“It’s more complicated than, uh… spawning… Omen with Discord. Omen came first before Discord formed her into who you saw physically. I can’t claim to know the details behind that because it all happened long before I was born. I guess that will be a discussion for Mother and you, not for me; but I will let Mother know of your wish to meet her. Letter her know ahead is better than barging in unannounced.” 

Sen recalled a similar sentiment he shared with Omen sometime in the past, back when she offered to prolong his lifespan. It wasn’t an easy decision to turn down, but some part of the longma preferred to live in his own skin with all that entailed. Perhaps there may be a time when he’d possibly see his mother and father again when his time would come, and when it does, he’d get to regale them with the adventures he, Lin, and Omen shared. He’d keep that sentiment in mind, but he knew Lin would always look after Omen, having come to see them as sisters. 

For the moment, good memories filled with learning were what he needed, especially to recall such would be paramount to restoring Lin to before. That would be the ideal outcome that will aid them all in the future, and they had at least a hundred years' worth of experience to build and learn from before passing them on. 

As Sen reached the odd ball of yarn and heard Elder Zhao’s words, it turns out Omen’s in quite an odd predicament. Even Sen, who had seen and heard some odd things, had some trouble wrapping his head around what he saw.

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"You look tall, brother."

Her voice where actually audible here. Low and raspy, but still, she were speaking, in the traditional sense. And it were indeed Omen, oddly as she may look currently.

"I told you, a large cat, and a ball of yarn. And I meant that quite literally. Took me a while just to distract the cat long enough to make a connection with the ball of yarn. It were frankly quite irritating, but yet it worked, more or less."

Omen would bounce in place, having figured out how to move fairly easily, and would look up at them both, as curious and neutral as ever. This were quite a strange place, with strange things to experience for her, and the point of view made things simply stranger.

"Have you seen anything peculiar?"

"I touched the crystal. It looks like something with sister, but wrong. Something is not right."

"Hmm, well, we'd need to see that, to make sure. Would you be ready, Sen?"

“Omen? I didn’t expect to see you looking like... this. Seems like you’ve found a crystal that lets you see into Lin’s memories, but you’re right. Something about it is wrong, and we will need to help her remember how it really went. Not all of these crystals could be the primary memories we need to restore, but if we want to move closer to whatever is giving her false memories, we need to clear the important ones. 

“Elder Zhao, I’m ready. Let’s see what this crystal will show us.” 

Once everyone else was poised to proceed, Sen reached one claw forward to see into the crystal and Lin’s memories. This one appeared again in, or near a cave, with Lin entering the darkened path. It was a quiet walk, but everyone could still see Sen through Lin’s eyes, their attention now along the walls of the cave lined with gemstones. They’d see Sen walking off on his own down a different path while Lin picked up a crystalline orb from the ground. She’d examine it first before heading outside into a clearing in a forest, Sen now in tow. 

The sight outside was just as similar: crystal deposits around the two, large slabs all over the ground like a public display, though something seemed off about it. Sen couldn’t quite figure it out yet, though he’d watch further, as this memory looked familiar.

Look at this, brother! A crystal ball! I bet no one would mind us taking this home, huh?

Someone took all this time to make this display, sister. You think we could show a little more respect to whoever did this? Come on, leave it.

You’re no fun, Sen! I swear, your training’s making you a little too responsible, and it’s not a good look for you.

One look at the crystal slabs outside the cave, and it looked like they were vaguely in the shape of quadrupeds. They didn’t look like much, but a closer inspection might lead to the realization that they were pony-like in stature. Images flickered in and out, but the seemingly featureless crystals soon morphed into faces locked in panic, the slabs now resembling tombs housing unfortunate souls. A very specific one appeared to do more than just flash details in and out; a clear mass of crystal morphed into a dark statue, then back again, though it would do this periodically only whenever Lin held the crystal ball near it. 

What seemed most perplexing was the sight of a chimeric creature in the background that neither Sen nor Lin noticed, but anyone else would be able to see it. Mismatched horns, wings, and extremities on a bearded serpentine body. It could only be described as chaotic like a certain draconequus.

“A cave and some crystals… Lin holding an orb, but those crystal statues are shifting. Where have we seen this? Omen? Does any of this look familiar? I’m certain it's got something to do with us.”