open Casual stroll

[Sekel 694]

@FanOfManyShows

WATTS MECHANO

"You said you've had a stump of a horn for most of your life. I believe I can correct that with some rudimentary techonology. Get a magic battery that can recycle its own energy, and put it in a cone-shaped metal rod that lights up whatever magic you want to use! Of course, I still need to figure out the odds and ends off reigniting and reconnecting the nerves to the new horn but I'm sure I can work it out!" Watts said excitedly, quickly catching up to Zealous and walking side by side with him. "It'll work, I'm sure of it! I just need to get an opinion on the biological side of things."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE

"Dragons are uncommon in Equestria. The only dragon that we all really know about is Princess Twilight's assistant, Spike," Karmic explained as she sat down by the piles Enzo was sorting through. She flicked her tail so it rested around her hooves and she looked down at the pile of books. "Do you need help sorting through these? At least one of them should bring out a vessel for Atzy or something."

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"That sounds like a grand idea, Nerzhei. We should we go page by page together and try to figure out which word means what if we can't come up with a conclusion on our own," Twilight suggested as she looked at the book, and then the writing implement Nerzhei would use. "The quill you're using. It looks a bit too sharp but try writing with it anyway."

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"Road trips are so much fun! It'll be a blast just getting to the hive, much less actually seeing it!" Aurora laughed, her wings flapping in her happiness at this prospect.

@Widdershins

DAWN STREAK

Dawn did two things when she landed. She began to laugh deliriously as she laid between Kaltrops' claws, all the adrenaline rushing through her body. The second thing she did, was laugh even harder when Kaltrops finished speaking. "YOU RHYMED!" Dawn bellowed as she laughed hysterically. She did eventually manage to calm down though and drew in heaving breaths. "My wings are smaller than normal. I have a scar that renders one of them practically useless."

[Early Sunsets 2,107]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

Zephyr looked over at the others. He hadn't noticed anypony else walking towards the castle, but that was mostly because of the strange garden that had apparently popped up for no particular reason. As long as no draconequus transformed him into anything, he didn't particularly care who was around. He glanced back at Sun Fire. She seemed more herself today, especially after she sang her song earlier. "It's good that she finally got her emotions out. She's always had a bad habit of keeping things to herself," he thought, smiling.

Sun Fire was too distracted to notice much of anything else going on. She was still having a hard time understanding how one being could be so powerful, especially while remaining at least relatively lawful.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade blinked, then shook her head. She hated when She  took over. She keeps blinking until her eyes are back to their normal color, "Thanks Cherish." she whispers then turns to face the owner of the voice, "That may be true, I need to stop jumping to conclusions. And you are?"

[Blitz Boom 4,639]

@Rising Dusk

Rising would find that despite Null being carried around, Void were no slower than she usually were. Pegasi were not the heaviest at the best of times, and Null were about the same size as a filly, which helped take off some extra weight. Plus that with Void being larger than the average earth pony, and having some strong legs, and you'd find that carrying her sister around wasn't an issue unless Null started to act up. Thankfully, she did not do that as they proceeded to go towards the workshop, though the whole menagerie they had going there still got quite a lot of looks as they moved along, which did make Null sneer at a few here and there. Pretty tame behavior in Void's mind, plus as they got to the workshop, she had other things to think about. Namely whatever or not they were gonna be in huge problems, as this place looked both fortified and ready to deal with intruders.

As they approached though, Felicia would increase in speed and wander in first, stand in the middle of the path leading to the workshop itself, and let out a series of loud clicks. A phonetic password to allow for the extra traffic that Molotov were likely not gonna be thrilled about were part of his security system, yet had been implemented by Felicia regardless, in case the situation arose that a larger flock needed to get here. Regular systems about allowing a few guests had some limitations, and she were unsure whatever or not Molotov had turned on the system again after Scarlet had been there. It had seemed best to do this, just in case.

After the procedure were done, she'd go up to the workshop, crawl in through her opening above the door, and soon after, the door got opened, leaving the others to gain access.

"Y'know Felicia, you could've just knocked. Ain't nice to just act like I don't matter in all of this."

Molotov had been standing over at a pile of tools he had used earlier on the cage and were halfway through polishing them all, when folks started to wander in. Among them, a few familiar faces that got a smile on the stallions face.

"If it ain't Scarlet and Dusky. I'm guessing the cage were a success since you ain't coming with chains to lock 'round my legs? And this big fellah... Nah, cant say I know him. How's it hanging? Wha-"

His eyes then fell on the sisters and his grin went into a face of brief shock, as he met eyes with Void. The mare in question weren't in doubt about who this were as she saw him, and felt the color slightly drain from her face, whilst he got a sting of joy from the look of it.

"Heeeeey, I remember you. You were at that big ol' food stand in Ponyville, serving out soup and that belly churning chili. What're you doing here gorgeous? Couldn't stay away from me anymore?"

"I... I uhm... T-That..."

Void hadn't known what to do against his advances back in Ponyville, and she certainly didn't now, as it became apparent that the stallion who had hit on her in Ponyville were not only here, but also the inventor that they were looking for, who could potentially help her sister. In a way she should really have expected that, considering she saw his metallic wings back then too, but it just hadn't crossed her mind that he'd be anywhere near this place.

"Hey! Back off!"

That got he attention of Null though, who jumped down from Void's back, placed herself between the two, and growled up at him.

"I didn't know you had a filly. Hey there little fellah, don't worry, I ain't gonna hurt your momma."

There wouldn't be time for anypony to stop the next action taken by Null, who took hold in the surprised stallions neck, and violently pulled him down to the point where she'd be so face to face with him, that her eyeballs were nearly touching his.

"Don't. Call. Me. A. Filly."

This were starting of well... Felicia at least seemed to be enjoying this, and letting out the monotone sound that made for her laughter at this. Seeing her creator being put in his place tended to be highly amusing to her.

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@EQ_Theta

On 2/20/2019 at 12:14 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"None of my kind grew up with magic and they have this really big anti-magic stance. Information on any kind of magic, healing or otherwise, is more or less unknown. The same could be said for me but ever since I gained this kind of magic, I never got a chance to learn about it. Maybe I'd like to have a look at that book."

"So your kind doesn't have initiate magic, nor welcome it? That's uhm... Strange... Are you two witches then or something?"

Hizhel were distracted from the sound of it, as she had started to answer not long after beginning her examination of Omen, and now found herself confused and honestly rather disturbed, though she weren't saying why currently. Might be something with Omen, or it could be in regards to the society that Sen and Lin had grown up in, which to a member of a race where magic were everything, sounded pretty dreadful.

On 2/20/2019 at 12:14 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"You need to regain your strength, Rosa. You weren't looking very good when we saw you come out from Lin's gate. We gave you some crude first aid treatment for your wounds but uh, I think I tore up your mask a bit. Sorry."

Rosa examined the mask - or what was left of it anyway - and examined the only parts of it that really mattered. That being the glass, and the filtration system in the muzzle. Both thankfully seemed to be intact, even if the mask weren't, which were good. Especially the later, as glass were easy to replace, while that were an uncommon sight that he weren't sure if anypony in Equestria even know for certain how to deal with. Some diving instructors likely had the basic ideas, but otherwise, he'd have to break back into his own country, and that were a can of worms that were not not easy to open and not cause all kinds of trouble.

"It's fine. I can... Repair it. You did what... You could to save me. More important than... A mask."

On 2/20/2019 at 12:14 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"At least these documents confirm what we know," Lin added. "A bat pony, a guard, and Filigree's child. There's no way the Stargazer we met in Ponyville isn't the same one mentioned here. Let's rest up here for a bit and plan how we'll approach this. We still have an evening to wait out but if it makes you comfortable, we can leave early and hopefully run into Stargazer before he leaves for Canterlot. The trial starts at 9 am."

Rosa slowly made it into an upright position, not feeling as pained as he had before, as the medication were starting to kick in. Still weren't making it any easier for him to speak full sentences without having to take a breath, but hopefully it'd be enough to not making him think needles were poking him in the hooves whilst they were walking. There weren't time to just sit here, though as he took the first hoof and sat it on the floor, he certainly wished there were, as for a brief moment, it felt like his leg had gotten out of its socket, and the movement got it set again. Something which repeated itself for every hoof put down, along with a heavy feeling, as if he were carrying uncomfortably bumpy belts of lead around his legs and stomach.

"The longer we wait... The worse. We should go... To Ponyville, before he gets told... Anything about the case. He needs to... Hear it from me."

"You are allowed to leave, but uhm... Gonna have to ask you something first. What is this?"

Hizhel interrupted, and pointed towards Omen after removing her paw from the creatures chest.

"The lungs aren't functional or active, there are three, impossibly large stomachs with something being stored in one of them, no heartbeat, a tongue that wraps around several times in a way that would make a humming bird jealous, and for some reason when I examine her brain, all I can see is a ball of yarn being batted around by a cat. Is this a new kind of golem I haven't heard of before? Because this is most certainly Not a pony."

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@EQ_Theta @Dji

On 2/20/2019 at 12:14 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"I'm sure Twilight and Nerzhei would have found something interesting. They probably a book they would discuss with each other for a very long time. I won't be surprised if they are having snacks right about now like a book club meeting. Those are fairly popular here! And... I was just thinking about what you mentioned, about the animals revering me. I don't know whether I should be feeling good about that or concerned. Having that kind of attention on me is a little daunting."

"You should feel honored that they think of you so highly. Whilst they are not ones to worship or pray towards, the animals does have their adoration and kind words, which translates well to others that they meet. Even those who have not met you are bound to learn of your kindness Fluttershy, and perhaps in time, it will be enough to vouch for ponies in general. Things would be easier, were there no want for the predators to hunt your kind."

Fluttershy may not wish to be adored as much as she were, but the animals saw her inthe shining light that they did, which wouldn't change unless she suddenly began doing many a horrible thing, and Lyriel could not see that happening on purpose. Fluttershy's personality were one of kindness and caring, not malice. It were hidden well if it were there at least.

It were not long before they came back to the castle, and passed some ponies talking outside near the peculiar garden. They seemed occupied, so Lyriel did not interfere, though she did bite notice in the peculiar stallion with the sharp teeth. Not a mutation she had seen in ponies before that, but certainly fascinating. Perhaps later, she could find this one and ask more in to that, but for now, they had a princess and a dragon to meet.

As they entered, they'd find the two in conversation, with Nerzhei just replying something of her own before Fluttershy spoke.

"If your paper isn't sturdy enough, I concede to that point. I'll accept using one of your pens for the time being."

The dragon had barely started to pack her own feather pen away before Fluttershy interrupted things, and she looked over from the table the two of them were sitting at, ready to scribble away.

"Were trying to do some research. You?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

It was a peaceful stroll down the abandoned area of town, all the way up until they reached the path out which correctly, had a guard station. Two guards occupied the space, with one seemingly taking a nap, and the other painting the barricade they were guarding. It were pretty obvious that nothing much happened here. Doubly so when the guard looked at the two beings approaching with surprise, and almost dropped his paint brush.

"Uh... Halt? Who goes there?"

"I am Marley, and this is my travelling companion, Ruby. We would like to pass your guard station and enter into the forest."

"Why?"

"I have the urge to fish, and my companion here are fairly interested in a type of plant that grows near the river banks."

The guard looked at the two with a curious glance, then shrugged.

"I guess that sounds legitimate enough. Try not to get yourselves hurt down there."

"We will endeavor not to. If you would excuse us."

Once the barrier had left room for them to exit, and they had gotten some way from the station Marley would run a claw through his hair and chuckle.

"Slacker duty as can be expected. They don't check too many things and seem to regard it as a vacation. I would personally reprimand them, but it have come to our favor at least. Now then, will you join me on a quiet stroll through the woods, madame?"

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@Catpone Cerberus

Fah'lina bowed before the impressed audience. Or the siren were sarcastic, but whatever, it weren't like the mimic didn't enjoy employing that sort of thing herself either. Even her response could be seen as such, though it were mostly genuine right now, with her just playing along.

Cleaning a fish scale out that got stuck in her front teeth, the mimic would swim to the shore and shake the water out of her fur then ran to a nearby bush where she'd rummage around, and come back with a few raspberries that she put down in front of the siren, and gesturing towards as something to eat, in case she needed greens, then back at the bush to indicate that she could get more if it were.

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@Lucid_Nightlight

"This here's your villain? Pff, weak. At least Tirek were intimidating. This guy couldn't scare the fleas off a dog."

She snapped her tail, and a crown of flowers and mushrooms fell on top of the pony's head. Nothing poisonous though!... This time.

"Hmm... He's kinda cute though. Hey crazy pony, wanna be mine? I'll make sure to give you lots of pets, wriggly food, and pinatas shaped like ducks to beat the tar out of. Take the offer now, and I'll also throw in a free toaster, and a pair of phoenix wings to make you look prettier and stuff. Warning, they might singe you a tiiiiiiny bit."

Anomaly would pull a bundle of flowers duct taped together with a confused, wriggling duck trying to snap at her hoof from... Somewhere, and point them towards the pony whose name she hadn't really caught since he hadn't said it. Ponies dug flowers, right? And she had all the great ones like roses, tulips, poison joke, doomseye, and of course, broccoli. It should be an easy, clear winner for the equine, and he were all hers, she could start fixing him up so he looked less uniform and boring. Poor fellah desperately needed some fun mutations.

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@Moonlit @Zephyr / Karou

"N-No problem."

Cherish were pretty concerned about how that pojy were able to hear them, considering the distance between them, but it seemed he had helped Serebade get herself under control again, so that were good. Or were it her speaking about it that got the siren out of it? Well, whatever the reason, Serenade were less dangerous to look at now, so that were a relief, though meeting others now meant that Cherish had to be quiet again to not expose herself, whilst the pony moved a little closer, and took a bow before Serenade.

"Briar Trapjaw, at your service."

He gave her a friendly smile showing off his pearly whites - hiding his sharp teeth tended to make others more suspicious of him in the long run - before facing his closed eyes towards the siren's general area, whilst sniffing the air in Serenade's direction.

"Peculiar, I could have sworn I heard another voice before... I must have misheard something then.

Ah, how rude of me to forget. This is Zephyr and Sun Fire, new residents of Ponyville whom I am showing around the town. And this is my ward, Brittle Buzz. May I inquire about your name?"

Briar had gestured towards his companions as he mentioned them, embarassed that he had forgotten to introduce them earlier, but hoping that it were okay.

Brittle meanwhile, were covering behind the evergrown, with her head held nearly to the dirt, and looked up at the siren in disguise with fear and confusion. There was something odd about this pony that the changeling couldn't place, and it wasn't making her feel any more comfortable around the mare.

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@Dji

"Dragons helping pony princesses and generals. The world have gone weird since I were imprisoned.

Regardless, if you want to help, sort the books written in equine. I can handle the draconic ones."

Mostly he just sorted them by certain words he could glance, as well as one pile that were generally unknown to him, but the equine ones were another matter. He had seen the one he had handed to the pony earlier, but what else may lie in these piles, he couldn't say.

They wouldn't have been at it for long before the elderly former general showed up near them, but his helmet down to reveal the aging face beneath it, and cleared his throat before speaking. He had no illusions that at least the sphinx heard him though, as the ears of that kind were quite sensitive, yet there were also the mare, so best to make his presence known before speaking, just in case.

"I appreciate both of you not trying to make things worse after landing back there. Handing over the reigns to a new general can be a delicate situation for the guards."

"Among my kind, our leaders stay in power until they die. Your ideas are complicating a simple process."

"It depends on the eyes that sees, but we can discuss that another time, Enzo. As for your companion... I believe you were the one kidnapped by the serpanther earlier, right miss? Are you feeling well?"

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@Dji

Happy chuckled at seeing the other drone getting all thrilled about the prospect of going off to see Thorax's hive. Reminded him of some of the less bitey nymphs back from the old hive.

"Easy there girlie, we still need to check out if they'll take the letter first. Roadtrip's in case that goes out the window, and we can figure out where he is."

They were almost in Ponyville, so they'd figure out soon enough. Hmmm... Perhaps he should stock up in some empty bottles while they were at it? A few crates of the good stuff might be the sort of gesture the new king would appreciate. If not, he could always use it in case some other ponies came around that wanted to get plastered.

Happy should have a look in his cart when he got to it next, see what he already had first though. Might be there were enough as it were.

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@FanOfManyShows

"- back within the hour. Y'know I'm good on my word."

Chow exited the train, ending his talk with a conductor who looked after the pony with a shrug and a small smirk. Snarky one, but he was fair, and gave Chow a chance in cases like this. First time the pet food maker messed up though, and he'd get into issues.

"Right bugger that one, but eh, what can you do?

Now you two get yourselves home  and I'll be there soon. Gotta rush home so I can get the bits back here before the timer ends. That guy's really into keeping things on time. Go figure with that job."

He gave a short glance around before going over and putting a hoof over to pat Astral on the back a couple of times.

"He'll find you Astral, I'm sure of it. Iron's a tough ol' stallion and they're messing with his turf. I'm sure he's just getting some intel out of 'em or something."

He weren't sure whatever or not this were true, and his voice betrayed him a small bit, but he had to try and think the best here. Astral already got a big hit with what went on with her momma. Her dad getting into trouble would crush the poor thing, and frankly, he couldn't blame her for what that might lead to. Never easy to lose family like that. Better hope Iron were okay.

Soon as Misty and Astral would move, Chow would get going too, though in the direction of his shop first. If the two wouldn't move yet and started talking, he'd stay, though eventually there wouldn't be a choice, and he'd have to run off. The train were vital to his business, so he couldn't get on their bad side.

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@FanOfManyShows

"She grinded me into this *mist*, though it wouldn't have mattered. My body were too disease riddled to be cleansed. Even if there were bones left, I couldn't have returned."

Though it were somewhat difficult to vocalise much emotion in this state, Emerald's voice carried a bitter tone, as she answered herself what Sapphire had before. Having to face the fact that regardless of how it would have gone, her body were not possible to salvage, were not an easy fact to swallow, and she only recently had to be forced to do so. Being reminded of her defeat stung deeply too, yet not as much as this had.

"Sapphire can, and will, return, but her bones needs to be cleansed of the illness that took her. It's pointless otherwise.

Now, you say you have those crystals? Find them, and expend what lies in them to the last drop. The consequences are dire if we try doing the ritual with cross-contaminated crystals."

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@FanOfManyShows

The question were met with awkward silence from Hogweed, as she thought over how best to say this.

"I don't know, but... Attacking the capitol, endagering the lives of civilians, assaulting the guards, wounding the diplomat... Thankfully nopony died, but even then, that could easily be at least twenty years.

Good behavior and cooperation in rehabilitation programs can reduce it substantially, and if you are able to help with the magic you know of, as you claimed earlier... A couple of years? Perhaps less? The princesses decides in the end when it comes to high profile cases like yours, so I don't know what they might think about this.

I'll try and speak your case as well as I can, but it comes down to your own effort in the long run. The more you prove to have changed or wishes to, the better the odds are that you will be free earlier on. Perhaps a lot sooner if Discord's case is to be judged from, though that might also have something to do with it being impossible to keep him in a cell."

It didn't feel right to be unable to give a definitive answer, but there were just too many variables for it to be possible, as this leaned more towards the Discord scenario, than some random street thug, who had more strict guidelines associated with thier programs.

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@FanOfManyShows

Benny were looking mortified when the axe didn't behave all that well at first. Sure he hadn't laid a hand on it since the time when it were just meant to be a regular axe, and had to guide the twins in how to deal with the finishing, personal touches, as his hands were still damaged after he had to grab the sword that Warlock threw, but this were still on his head if things went poorly, as he were the forge master, and the responsibility of went through there were his.

When it finally stabilized, and the general expressed his delight with the finished product, the color poured back into Benny's face and he let out a shaky sigh of relief, before bowing before the new general and wander back into the castle.

Now it were time for the other generals to step forward and stand close to Iron, in full view of the guards below. Screecher stood tall and rank at his right, with her piercing gaze pointed towards their subordinates, whilst Tidal stood more casually to his left, with a cheeky grin on her face.

"On behalf of the Night Guard, we welcome you, General Iron Wings. May we see this country to safety together."

The members of the Night Guard - primarily bat ponies - beneath, rose their heads and right front hoof nearly at the same time, and saluted the new general once more.

"You got some big shoes to fill, but know that when the going gets tough, you can count on the Coastal Guard to sort it out. Make some noise for him folks."

Tidal grinned even wider as her crew rose their triforces, and battered the hilt into the floor in almost perfect unison, giving off a pretty good sound if she were to say it herself, as well as a nice show of her subordinates standing like they meant business.

Tidal would then poke Iron in the side with her elbow and gesture towards the crowd with her head. It was his turn now to finish this up and say a few words about unity, responsibility, or whatever. His subordinates were waiting.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"You shall not mock me pumpkin ladybug thing! I will rule this world! I am Lumen Obscurum, the ruler of uh... evil stuff! I will now choose a random individual to destroy! How about that chair!"

Lumen pushed over a chair that was right next to him.

"BOOOOOO! It didn't even break!"

"CHANGE THE CHANNEL!"

He pointed at Pringle.

"Fear me, lizar-"

Pringle simply bit his hoof.

"OW! That actually hurt!"

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

"Not witches, Hizhel," Sen replied. "More like victims of circumstance. My sister, Lin, lost her original body and had one created to avoid dark magic from consuming her. Mine was provided by magical specters who now wished to remain unfound. I am Sen, by the way, and the one you are examining now is Omen."

With two different conversations going on, both Sen and Lin found it fitting that they should tackle each separately, preferably with some care as their approach might be a little rash if they don't plan accordingly. As agreed, Sen opted to stay put and speak with Rosa while Lin walked up to Omen and Hizhel to hopefully clear things up. It is a rather difficult subject to explain given that even she is a little baffled by it. 

"Rosa, I suppose we could go and see Stargazer but we need to be careful about the subject. I don't know how much he knows but we shouldn't rush this. Once we pay him a visit, we'll also need to find you a place to stay and rest. Though Stargazer might be willing to let you stay in his home, I'll think of some alternatives in case that doesn't happen."

Lin, in the meantime, scratched her head while trying to make sense of Omen's rather strange anatomy. She is about as stumped as Hizhel with this bizarre display of internal organ arrangement. She hasn't had any formal education on the subject but just the description is enough to get the gears in her head to come screeching to a halt. It's really that odd. Well, except for the tongue. She's seen it enough to know that it is a lot longer than an average pony's. 

"It's odd and chaotic, yes, but I guess there is an explanation for this. Have you heard of a creature called a draconequus? A well-known one by the name of Discord? Yeah... that's the short explanation. The long version is Discord, eh... fashioned Omen from a formless state, created the physical form you see here to resemble a pony in shape. Knowing Discord, the oddities you noticed are very likely his doing. Omen is no golem, that's for sure."

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@Blitz Boom @Dji

Fluttershy took Lyriel's words to heart, listening intently but still unsure how to go about it. It is true the animals look up to her, or go to her, because of the reputation she's build with them. Odd that the pegasus who fell from the clouds would rather prefer the company of animals over other ponies but for the longest time, she could honestly live on her own on the ground. Then there was the even stranger bit: very few noticed her absence from flight camp. Maybe Rainbow Dash did once her race with the bullies ended but for a while, it seemed like no one really cared. Only later did her family find out and confronted her about the change in habitation. Perhaps all that time spent on the ground drew her in to their more pleasant attitudes and appearances, and her strange ability to understand them, sealed the deal. 

Eventually, that all worked out and that first meeting with the butterflies led to her finding her cutie mark and the rest is history. Though it never really occurred to her how migrating butterflies managed to hold up another organism over a hundred times heavier than them. One of the mysteries of Equestria better left unknown... The pegasus appreciated Lyriel's response, but would rather think about it some more in silence. Back to reality, Fluttershy returned to the castle to find Twilight and Nerzhei, who both appeared to be absorbed with an interesting topic.

"I showed Lyriel around town, taking in the sights and sounds by the animal sanctuary, and ate some doughnuts at Sugarcube Corner! I hope we didn't interrupt something important. You two seemed to have found something interesting."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
To her usual manner, Ruby stayed quiet the whole travel until Marley spoke to her "I fail to understand the purpose of guards there." she started "I can see why you wouldn't want let some creatures in, but I don't see why they care who leaves the city." she didn't sound curious, and instead her tone was blank, almost bored sounding, it was most likely just something she felt like mentioning but didn't necessarily care what the reason for the guards caring who left actually was. "And yes, I'm more than happy to join you Birdie."

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Nada looked at the berries for a second, clearly trying to remember something "Thank you Fah'lina, it's been a while since I have had, raspberries I think they're called." she didn't really need to eat things like berries, but it didn't mean she never did, it would have gotten old pretty quick if she never ate anything else than fish. She picked them up with her mouth because she would have just crushed them if she would have tried picking them up with her hooves "Do you like berries?"

 

[Early Sunsets 2,107]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

Zephyr nodded at Serenade, not wanting to get too involved in their conversation. When it came to groups, he never really felt like talking much. That much speaking tended to make him feel rather tired after a while.

Sun Fire turned from the garden and smiled politely at Serenade before glancing back at the garden. She had finally realized why so much of her attention was focused on the garden; it was inspiring her to write another song. Something about the disorganization of it called to her, like fragments of a melody with distant undertones of harmony that only she could hear. "Hmm... I think I can work with this..." she thought. Inspiration tended to be quite elusive, so it was always exciting when she found something new.

[Rising Dusk 27,865]

@Blitz Boom

That went... about how he expected.  Considering the mix mash of personality that were about to collide in the workshop it shouldn't have been shocking.  He wasn't expecting though that Void and Molotov had met before, especially in Ponyville.  Which mostly raised questions such as why Molotov was all the way out in Ponyville.  More importantly though, how Void was working a soup and chili cart without Null nearby.  Not that it helped all that much the lack of a filter on the other stallion's mouth.  Scarlet had shared the short version of her experience in getting the cage from the inventor.  Rising Dusk had used the term 'acquired taste' before, but it didn't seem too far off.  Hey, his mission was to get them together for Null.  Mission accomplished.  Now to prevent the workshop from being brought down around them.  Although the mechanical snickering from Felicia above wasn't he most encouraging.  First step, some corrections and distractions. 

"Molotov, I'd like to formally introduce Void and her older sister Null," the detective introduced the sisters, pointing out that the pegasus that currently was muzzle to muzzle with Molotov in an aggressive headlock.  "Ladies, this is Molotov Boom.  Felicia's creator and most likely the only pony in the world capable to returning your flight, Null," he then introduced the sisters of Troy to the owner of the workshop.  "Magic can't help her, but your invention can.  So maybe let us put a pin in the ego and a pin in the anger for a moment?," he added before stepping around the pair.  Running a layout of the workshop from his memory while pulling one of the golden disks he brought from the O.M.I. out of his hoodie pouch.  Jumping up onto a work bench to place one of them on top of a light fixture.  Climbing back down to wander his way over to the other side of the workshop room they were in.  

"The cage was indeed a success.  We actually have a dangerous witch locked up in it at the moment," he casually confirmed while putting another golden disc on the floor and kicking it under a bench with a satisfying metallic clink.  "Sadly it appears to be under a good amount of stress.  And based on Felicia's estimate it might only last a couple days," give credit where credit is due.  Taking a third disc into his mouth and climbing up a large shelf that rocked from his weight, careful to keep his balance and prevent as many tools from falling to the floor until he could put it on top.  He couldn't use his magic to just levitate them into location on these, else they'd activate and that would be bothersome.  "I think we've reached the limits of Deep Iron.  Perhaps we can use Black Steel for the reinforcement structures while keeping the main cage Deep Iron?" the detective inquired.  Magically, mixing the metals wouldn't affect the spell, as they were both conduits, so he just needed to know about how it'd work mechanically. 

Edited February 27, 2019 by Rising Dusk

[Sekel 694]

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE

"You know," Karmic said in a quiet tone, her face looking at the book in her hooves. She wasn't really reading it because her eyes had gone a milky white. Her ear had flicked in the direction of the general's voice and that had triggered a short vision. "Old age is a peaceful way to go. I see that for you sometime in the future. It's hard to tell." she didn't comprehend what else the elderly general had said, only focusing on what she could see in her mind. "Old age is definitely a peaceful way to go. I wouldn't mind it."

@Blitz Boom, @EQ_Theta

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"Oh, Nerzhei has me hooked on a book she's brought along," Twilight smiled easily, looking up from the book to Fluttershy. "She was just explaining the nuances of the history her race had to go through," she added. In Twilight's train of thought, a small lie of reading a different history book rather than a potential history-defining book was a small price to pay for not really letting anyone else other than herself and Nerzhei know about it. "Isn't that right, Nerzhei? Prince Spark Bright was ... what did you say? Lethal?"

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"Alright," Aurora sighed and deflated somewhat but she still pranced every few steps despite nearing Ponyville. "I just love roadtrips so much!"

[Blitz Boom 4,639]

@EQ_Theta @Dji

"A lethal scourge to some, a hero purging invaders to others. Someone of that kind of power and conviction tends to polarize themselves in history books. It's an interesting study to see these varied points of view, if you're inclined to care about that kind of thing."

She weren't sure why the princess wanted to keep hidden what they were studying, but perhaps Fluttershy were one who wouldn't take that sort of history well? Hmm... Unlikely, though perhaps the princess were more concerned about wanting to release the full thing at once, rather than hype up a small portion, and that was the reason? Seemed reasonable enough, and Lyriel would buy it, as she had yet to be told what this book were. Just that it were an important part of history.

"It's good to see you two are getting along. I feared that perhaps you would have issues bonding with the princess, even through your shared love of literature."

"Knowledge is a powerful thing."

Nerzhei slowly closed the book that they had gotten ready, as it seemed like now were the time to speak, rather than study. A real shame honestly, but what could one do?

"So you two have bonded over animals and sweet things it sounds like. Have their been any complications?"

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

 

@Dji

"Old age sounds like a peaceful end to things indeed, and I still have some years kicking in me."

"Then why surrender your position?"

"Because I lived to protect my country, as well as my subordinates, and when my reaction time starts to slow because of age, I bring both into danger. There needed to be somepony with new energy in the seat, and I have confidence in Iron becoming a good general that can do what is best for everypony.

However, if I may return to something with you miss: Are you a seer of sorts? I have heard others talk in that way before that claims to be."

Dew were skeptic about those, and thought them as having a weird outlook on life, but his personal judgement weren't important here. He could always be skeptical about what he heard, as he had been in the past, without being overly dismissive of the pony claiming to have that kind of gift.

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

 

@Dji

"Awh, don't despair. You never know, right?"

(ten minutes later, as they stepped out of the post office)

"Well then, that didn't get us anywhere, though they did at least give us the general direction. Might be that road trip you were all game about is gonna be our course of action. Just let's go grab my cart first, alright The weird pumpkin head stole me right away from it earlier, and I'm getting worried that something might've happened to it."

The post ponies had basically just flat out declined to go anywhere near the changeling area, as they didn't have any orders to do so, and they didn't want to risk it. Must be folks who had been on the wrong end of a changeling attack. Sounded even more like it when they started to ask why the two of them wanted a letter there, but a quick talk of it being to try and write with somepony there to attempt being friendly since ponies were supposed to accept them now, seemed to do the trick. Honestly he just figured they didn't want to touch it with a fifty hoof pole.

Anyway, seemed like they were gonna have to get going and grab his cart then, and then it was on the road again. Was gonna be weird to have a travel companion along with him now, but hey, he liked talking with others, so it might not be too bad.

The cart would be around 200 meters away from them, on the outskirts of town, right in front of a large hole. Wouldn't take too long to get there if they kept a good pace.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

8 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Molotov, I'd like to formally introduce Void and her older sister Null," the detective introduced the sisters, pointing out that the pegasus that currently was muzzle to muzzle with Molotov in an aggressive headlock.  "Ladies, this is Molotov Boom.  Felicia's creator and most likely the only pony in the world capable to returning your flight, Null," he then introduced the sisters of Troy to the owner of the workshop.  "Magic can't help her, but your invention can.  So maybe let us put a pin in the ego and a pin in the anger for a moment?,"

The two kept silent, with Molotov just having a pretty surprised glare in his eyes the entire time. He weren't a stranger to aggression, since he had been in a town of scientists and they could get vicious sometimes if things got heated. Plus he he had gotten quite a few beatings by mares he had opened his muzzle badly towards, yet Null here were different. In her eyes, he could see genuine, unfiltered hatred in the moment she had pulled him in. Null didn't just want to make him go away if he stepped off the path, she wanted to make him eat his own legs.

Once his brain started to catch up though, he had to admit that this were kinda funny. Him getting schooled by a mare not far from the size of his little sister, and getting real nervous over what she'd do to him if he didn't go careful about things. Sure he felt a little less strong now that he could feel the magic suppression in action - a magnificent abnormality, truly - but he were pretty sure that if it came down to it, he could beat her in a hoof fight.

"Alright, my bad on that one Null. Let's bury the hatchet, alright? And I'm not trying to grill your sis for the giggles. She's a real fine looking mare."

Null growled at that last part, but let go and stepped back whilst Void got an almost unnoticeable blush at being given compliments like this. She weren't used to it, and frankly didn't think she liked it from at least this stallion, but it were kind of nice to hear. A shame it had to be from somepony this forthcoming and kind of obnoxious.

"Keep your hooves off her. Now start talking about what the big deal is here, and if this is a trick, I swear I'm going to feed you your own goggle."

"N-Null..."

Void were not thrilled about her sisters behavior, though the laughter she were met with from the inventor were hard to ignore for her, as that were hardly a response you would expect from this. What were he finding so funny right now?

"Oh man, this one's a riot when you let her grow on you a little. And he's saying that I can help you fly, because I've made functional wings before."

He spread the metallic bat wings, and took a small spin around. He could show off more, but he didn't wanna risk hitting something and making a fool out of himself.

"Your ability makes for a strange situation, but I'm thinking that I can get this sorted and get you a replacement wing with a bit of luck. It ain't gonna be easy from there, but you know how rehabilitation goes. keep up the program, and in time, you're gonna end up flying around like there's no tomorrow. Frankly I'm thrilled to get the chance, though not to worry there, powder keg. Ain't gonna do aaaaanything to you unless I get the permissions for it.

And frankly, if this works? Might be able to eventually help you patch up you lil' sis too. Been working on some eye designs for my bots for a while now, and this might end up being pretty useful. Just imagine, being the pony who makes the blind see and the grounded fly? Momma would've been proud of that."

8 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"I think we've reached the limits of Deep Iron.  Perhaps we can use Black Steel for the reinforcement structures while keeping the main cage Deep Iron?"

While Null stood somewhat stunned at both the display of flight from somepony who didn't even have natural wings, and the notion that perhaps Void could eventually get her eye fixed too, Molotov turned his attention towards Dusky, who were going on about the cage and how it were going.

"Good to know it's working if you got a tough customer, but yeah, it ain't stable yet. First working prototypes never are, and I fear it's gonna end up collapsing eventually too.

I got it filled with a little something that seemed to help, but the pressure, the pressure... Hmm... I think you're right on about us needing Black Steel, but perhaps focus on doing some reinforcements on the key points first, like you said, so we don't end up making each cage cost a half nation. The pressure's mainly on where the bars are welded together, so that's a start, though in a few years when we can work on a foldable variety to make this sorta thing portable, I'm thinking we'll need to go all out there. Really gonna hope I can find that alchemist that's supposed to get the papers from the researchers transmuting stones soon. If we could change some metal into that, it'd be pretty grand.

Now, mind telling me what the deal is with that witch, and what's going on here in general? Like, why're you placing disks 'round my workshop?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"As far as I am aware, there were not always guards stationed there, and instead they simply relied on wards keeping an eye on things, in case of smugglers or the like.

After the failed changeling invasion however, they have increased their security, and I doubt that will change anytime soon, even with the bug ponies being on the path of acceptance among them. I would not be surprised if the two we passed were merely a distraction from more magical means of securing this entrance either, yet as you said, there is hardly a point when you leave. Entering however, might be quite interesting.

But that is a concern for another day. Let this most humble bird lead the way to an area where unwanted eyes should not fall upon you."

A bird, what a preposterous thing to call him. Depending on the sort of bird though, it may not be as great of an insult, and the non-specific nature of the comment made it easy for him to spin it as her meaning that he were as glorious and menacing to those below them as a mighty bird of prey like a hawk or eagle.

Of course Ruby didn't mean that, but it were more interesting to bend her words in his favor, rather than imagine what she actually meant, which were likely more akin to a pigeon or a chicken. Both of them repulsive creatures honestly.

In any case, he'd start leading the way off the beaten path, and look for bear tracks or something akin to that. Ruby would likely be able to smell or find something faster though, considering she were objectively equiped with tge tools necessary to be a better hunter of beasts than him.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

The mimic nodded as she were asked whatever she liked berries or not. Her kind were highly adaptable creatures who found nourishment where they could, so most things got down their gullets. Fruits also carried nutrients that they needed in their diet, so they tended to cultivate some things like berry bushes around the areas they settled into to make sure they had a good stockpile. It were not as impressively as a regular pony farm by any stretch, but they did well enough in ensuring that there were always food, and that they had their rations for the winter months.

In any case, the siren looked like she liked the berries provided, so Fah'lina wandered over and jumped into the bush for more. A ruckus soon ensued, but it were shortlived, as a sparrow tumbled out, whilst chirping angrily at the mimic. Said mimic were popping out the top of the bush, and hissed at the bird with maws wide open, which made the little critter fly off as quickly as it could.

Soon as this intruder had been chased off, Fah'lina would start plucking berries off one by one, and throwing them towards Nada to see if she'd eat them, then stop when she didn't anymore. There weren't any reason to waste these more than were needed after all.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

The kitsune paled as she were told what the deal were with Omen, in stark contrast to the interested look she had as Sen mentioned what had ocurred with him and Lin. Something she certainly wished to know more of, but it were hard to focus on above the news that the lord of chaos had a hand in creating the creature in front of her.

"D-Discord? He's back!?"

"Yes."

Hizhel took a step back, and felt the small hairs on the back of her neck rise up straight.

"You're not... Going to explode or something, right?"

"She have been around... For a long time. She isn't... Unstable. And Discord have... Reformed. He stays with ponies and... Helps them, without spreading chaos. He... Isn't coming around here. They have him... Busy enough in Equestria."

Rosa had to combine a few guesses with what he knew as he tried to take the potential bad situation before it escalated. Considering how Hizhel looked, chances were that these beings had some history with the lord of chaos, and likely not in a good way, so he had to try and ease them through this before they got thrown in a dungeon.

He wish he knew what story this might be, but even among great spies, getting any information on the kitsune that they didn't want you to have were highly difficult, and they were not keen in outsiders snooping around their business. Most that he knew actually came from Neighpon ponies, but that were somewhat unreliable, and mostly regarded their impact on the ponies society.

"Messing with your patients again, are we?"

Yazma stood in the doorway and looked over the commotion with a smirk on her face, and an amused tone in her voice.

"Muzzling your nose into others fun again, are we?"

Hizhel's stance and facial expression changed on the spot as she were caught in her literal act, and went back to her previous joyed expression, though with a little something extra to it after her performance.

"I'm a teacher. Ruining others fun are part of my job.

You three needn't pay her no heed. Our kind and Discord have crossed paths before, and we tolerated one another well enough. We are also aware of his return, though I don't want to bore you with the details. Hizhel here is just having some fun at your expense."

"It was just too perfect to miss. I am not kidding about this one being strange though, but if Discord is the creator, I'm not surprised, and her being made out of basically magic and his wits would explain how she's alive. She isn't bound by regular biology..

To get back to the serious business though, your stories are pretty strange, but the scans support something like that could be the cause of a few things, so I'll add it to the reports and consider it a done deal."

"So that's... It then?"

"Yep, and I have a whole lot to write down now, so I gotta go soon. Here's the book I promised you though Sen. I think you'll find it informative."

Hizhel flipped a paw, and a copy of *Raizu's Guide to Regenerative Magic: Volume 1* popped on to Sen's back.

"It's just a copy, so keep it, and consider it a fair trade for the information you've given us. Though from the sounds of things, you wouldn't have the time to stay and read it either, as the young man over there seems to be in a hurry. Or am I mistaken?"

"No. But you're right Sen. We need... To go at this carefully, and analyze... The best way to break this too him. Equestrian guards... Don't trust spies. And I'll be fine for rest. I just... Need a tree."

"Flat surfaces only for the next few days mister. A bed of moss is a bare minimum."

"Fine. I'll... Think of something."

He were feeling too beaten up and tired to argue with the kitsune over this, and just picked up what was left of his mask before standing ready to leave whenever the rest were ready for it. The suit were too ruined to be worth much anyway.

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

"Hey, I wasn't mocking you."

Snapping her tail a few times, a party crown fell on the pony's head, a squeaky scepter ended in one of his hooves, and an oversized, furred red  cape got slung from his neck and behind him, as a plastic throne rose from the ground.

As the final touch, a neon sign going *Cover in fear* blinked sarcastically above his head, whilst the draconequus snickered like there were no tomorrow.

"Now I'm mocking you."

She saw the lizard bite him, and whilst that too were absolutely hilarious, she also went over and let her tongue - now a large roll of gauze - dangle towards him to try and be sort of helpful.

"Did you get your widdle hoof hurt? I'll help, and then I'll sweep you away like the fairytale princess you are. With what Lucid and Novia told me about you  I'm not letting you go at least. All snuggly and crazy, just like I like them.

Well  you're also sort of a wimp, but I can't win them all."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade bows, "Moonlit Serenade" She gives the changling a weary eye, "A pleasure...despite the current surroundings." She sucks in a deep breath then lets it out. "I apologize for my outburst earlier, it was not meant for....your ears, or the ears of any pony really"

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"Awe, Pringle must be hungry."

"Hungry little lizard."

Lumen did not like this mockery. Maybe the crows put them up to this.

"This isn't funny! I am... uh... what's my name again?"

"Lumen."

"Lumen! Lumen the Destroyer!"

"Not even an original name!"

"Why? Is it because of the duck and crows eating my favorite fridge?"

Novia looked shocked for a second.

"Hey! You leave politics out of this!"

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

Sen studied the book, skimming through the pages and getting an idea of the contents. For a moment, even he is a little confused by books, bound on the spine with the pages moving right to left. Growing up with loose pieces of parcel or bound on the header with rope was how he learned, if it wasn't orally passed down. The whole thing is intriguing just to look at but it may be too soon to read up on the contents until he has some time to spare. For now, he settled on a quick look before packing the book away in his saddle bag. 

"Hizhel, Yazma, thank you so much for helping us out," Lin placed herself between the two and respectfully bowed her head with Sen joining in. "We don't have much in the way of payment but we insist on giving you something for your troubles."

Lin quickly opened a gate back to her home village and returned with two small pouches, the sound of clanking indicating small objects contained within. She handed one to Sen, who promptly walked to Hizhel, and the other was brought before Yazma. "A pouch of gemstones. I don't know how much they are worth here but they are valuable to us. Maybe they might fetch a fair price."

"Thank you for the book as well," Sen added. "I'm certain it will be of great help."

Though it would seem like a terrible idea to throw away such a precious commodity, the longma always find a way to haul in some gemstones. The forest is teeming with places to look and, while a village caravan would always have some gems to trade, it isn't exactly a common thing to find them in large chunks. Still, the longma siblings kept a reserve and the village's artisans occasionally have excess pieces leftover from their crafts. There is something for Shrimp to indulge and it didn't bother them because the excess can't be made into anything valuable. It was an acceptable waste management strategy and everyone is happy about it. 

Lin, once more, opened a gate nearby, this time to Ponyville. One step further and they'd be just outside Stargazer's home, hopefully not at a time when they'd catch him by surprise. Sen stood by Rosa's side in case he needed some help walking. 

"Fortune favor you both, and your students. We've learned a lot since we arrived and your kindness will not be forgotten."

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

@Blitz Boom @Dji

"No, we didn't run into any problems. To be honest, I guess the only issue was figuring out how to make already sweet food even sweeter for Lyriel. It turned out fine though the bakery will need more sugar soon. And the animals were delighted to see her too! I think plenty of birds were following us to the sanctuary."

It was nice to see Twilight and Nerzhei getting along well and sharing this time to go over a subject they both liked. Seems like they could be quite the pair when they'd present their findings to an interested panel of scholars, teachers, even the princesses if they had the time to listen. For now, the two appeared absorbed in their studies and that might throw a wrench in Fluttershy's plan for the following day. Still is worth a suggestion and she honestly wasn't in a rush to get them out of the castle. 

"We did have an idea, though. I was thinking maybe you and Twilight would want to spend an afternoon at the town spa? Just to relax and loosen up maybe? I wouldn't be taking you away from your studying for a long time and you'd get to experience something Ponyville has to offer."

[Blitz Boom 4,639]

@Zephyr / Karou @Moonlit

"Once again, I apologize for listening in when it were. I have spent most of my life deprived of sight, so my other senses have become rather sensitive, with hearing being among the more prominent. It were not my intention to react upon what I accidentally heard though, before angry mentions and Discord arose. I thought that perhaps if I clarified things somewhat, it might brighten your day some, though I would say to you as I did my currently silent companion: Don't touch the grass. It is impossible to say what will come of that.

Beyond that, it seems like the princess have just had two guest arrive, as I am rather certain that two ponies passed us all mere moments ago, so perhaps she will be too busy to take audience from either of our groups currently. May I perhaps suggest a passage of time by having you, miss Serenade, interact with Sun and Zephyr? I am certain they would enjoy getting to know a true local a little better, and there must certainly be some things you could discuss. Perhaps they too have a fondness of the ocean, as it smells like you do?"

briar felt Brittle get closer, as the weary eye that Serenade had given her made the changeling scared that the new arrival were going to do something to her. The fear in her large, pale eyes directed at Serenade should speak volumes of that, yet as sirens seemingly did not care for the bug ponies, and changelings were known to manipulate, perhaps she would merely think this a trick to make her lower her guard. Regardless of what she may think though, Briar would make sure to keep them apart were a sudden altercation to happen. Serenade would hardly be the first he had to forcefully remove for having negative opinions and actions towards Brittle, though of course, the situation weren't the same here, as this mare hid quite a large secret that would likely prove difficult.

But there were likely no reason to think this would happen. Briar wished to think the best of those he met, and though some had their reservations towards changelings, he wanted to think that most would at worst merely refuse to speak with Brittle. One could hardly go around and think that everypony were out to hurt you constantly and still be able to interact well with others. Brittle feared such a thing, and the poor thing were a wreck.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby just nodded, she didn't have anything to say to the topic and she didn't have anything else she would be interested to bring up to conversation. She didn't mean any specific bird when she called Marley bird, because for her there was no difference, they were all small and pitiful creatures regardless of species for her. But it wasn't necessary meant as an insult for Marley either, because though it was true she looked down on him, the reason why she was calling him bird wasn't because of that, but because that was the animal he reminded her the most of, and when given the chance, she liked to use animal species instead of names when talking to somebody, because she saw names as meaningless invention of creatures who thought they were above nature.

She walked quietly after Marley, until scents of different animals started to fill her senses, and more importantly, somewhere among them was a bear, and from smell of it, said bear had just found something to eat, as the smell of dead prey was mixed with the bear's scent. "Is there some specific place you're leading me? Because if not, I'd like to proceed to hunt now." Obviously she didn't really care if there was a certain place, but she asked it in case the place where they were now in had a risk for her getting seen by ponies.

--------------------------------------------------------
Nada chuckled a bit at the situation with the bird, it wasn't funny per say, but it did amuse her to see it. She ate few mouthfuls berries before realizing that Fah'lina wouldn't stop throwing them to her as long as she ate them, so she smiled at the mimic "That's enough thank you.". She liked Fah'lina.

(Sorry about short Nada, my mind is hitting blank.)

 

 

 

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou "I wouldn't call myself a true local. I'm originally from Manehatten, and my job is usually located in Canterlot. I moved here cause the lights in Canterlot are starting to interfere." She bows her head a bit in greeting, "A pleasure". This close to....chaotic magic, Serenade's disguise would....flicker from time to time. As Serenade is talking, the Pegasus Mare would flicker to this!

Edited February 28, 2019 by Moonlit

[Early Sunsets 2,107]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

Sun Fire turned from the garden reluctantly. She had what she thought was a pretty decent composition started, but she'd have to continue it later. Assuming she could remember it all, of course.

Zephyr and Sun Fire looked at her, startled. Zephyr rubbed his eyes, while Sun Fire blinked a few times. "I must be seeing things," they both thought at almost the same time. Sun Fire shook her head.

"You're from Manehattan? We just moved from there. It was a bit too crowded and unfriendly there, if you know what I mean," Sun Fire said, still unsure if what she saw was real or not. After the garden, she wouldn't be all that surprised if the flickering pony wasn't just part of her imagination. Zephyr nodded.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade nods, "Oh I know. Why do you think I moved to Canterlot then here." She doesn't notice she's flickering, "My parents moved there shortly after I came into their lives, Dad got a job at the University there. Before that, they lived near Baltimare"

[Rising Dusk 27,865]

@Blitz Boom

At least things were moving in a better direction after a little chat among the two.  Rising Dusk could have had a sit in with the sisters and talked as much as he wanted about how Molotov could help them, but it likely wouldn't have gotten anypony anywhere.  Showing tends to work a lot better, and hopefully by seeing Molotov's own wings, along with Felicia, would be far more satisfying in their curiosity than what Rising Dusk could provide.  Letting things run its course usually works best, if a little supervisor is necessary then so be it.  The idea of building the cage out of Black Steel wasn't the idea of course, that'd be too expensive, but just using the step up in quality of metal for the supports would still work a little better.  He'll leave that to the expert though, the unicorn will just provide the spell work, but they do need a new cage before the one at the O.M.I. at collapses.

The shelf the detective had climbed upon wobbled precariously with the golden disc placed upon the top of it.  Sliding down the front as quickly as he could until he landed on his hoofs to hold the shelf and keep it from falling over.  Igniting his horn to catch a few falling items with a levitation spell and put them back into their proper places.  It was a fair inquiry, not that he was working all that hard to hide what he was doing though.  "Wards," he answered rather matter of factly.  Rising Dusk didn't have the ability to cast ward spells himself, definitely not in the sense of The Captain or Tussel's ability to do so with ease.  No, instead they were placed on these discs as mobile wards to be used elsewhere at a different time.  Not nearly as powerful as a full ward, but each will block a spell or two thrown at the workshop.  Molotov's workshop had a good deal of defenses from the physical world, but lacked such things from the magical world.  Well, that was fixed for now, if for just the short term.

"Dark Overlords, damaged witches, impending doom of Equestria.  The usual," he added as if it was just a normal day at the office, but didn't feel the need to go into much more detail in that.  No real point in telling Molotov in the sisters how mind controlling spores threatened to take over the city of Manehatten.  Removing a fourth disc from his pouch to head off into the kitchen.  "Where are Blitz and Carmen?" he asked before disappearing into the kitchen to set up a ward in it as well.

[Blitz Boom 4,639]

@Catpone Cerberus

"I have no particular place in mind, regardless of what I may have told the guards. In my mind, the prime objective with leading the way were to find an area that would obscure us from sight, as to not expose your capabilities to some random passer by. Messy business keeping muzzles shut without being noticed."

Marley scratched his chin and looked around at where they currently were. Seemed like they had trees blocking view of the gate to Canterlot, and the path were both some meters behind them, and by the sound of it, not currently traversed. There were hardly any sounds in fact, but Marley assumed that had something to do with Ruby's presence. It wouldn't be the first time he would have seen her presence influencing the wildlife.

"This place will likely do then. Allow me a second to step aside, lest I get a wing in my face."

Had she not already started transforming, Marley would step over and stand next to a tree, leaving him quite a good point of view, but hopefully not one that got him a tail or wing slap. Guess it were time for Ruby to amaze him, with the glory of a wild dragon.

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@Catpone Cerberus

The mimic stopped throwing the berries, and stuffed the last one plucked into her own mouth, showing that she could eat things like a regular squirrel too. She were about to fly over to Nada after that, but stopped mid air and looked over to a point to the right. There weren't any indications anything were wrong like sounds or smells, but regardless of that, Fah'lina cracked her knuckles and flew over, diving head first into the crowns of a small tree.

She promptly fled out again two seconds after that, whilst making panicked warning sounds. Behind her, a small flurry of embers followed in her direction, but thankfully the mimic hit the water before they hit her.

A loud shriek soon followed, as the young phoenix flew out if the tree and started to flap around the lake. It were as elegant as could be, with it's bright colors and slim stature, followed by long, almost smouldering tail feathers, but the way it were making a round were not meant to show off, but rather to patrol menacingly and wait for what it supposed were a squirrel to come back up so that she could be taught a lesson. Seemed like Fah'lina had stuck her hands into a metaphorical beehive and given it a shake.

It currently didn't seem to have noticed or bothered caring about Nada, so whatever her response to this were going to be interesting, and potentially important.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

So a ton of danger, and now his own workshop were needing to be warded off from the potential repercussions? Jeez.Dusky must've really gotten on somepony's angry side. Then again, seeing as this were Equestria - whose unofficial motto should be *Harmony and horrible monsters* - it could just be a regular Thursday sort of thing that he had gotten caught up in unintentionally, and the witch they caught were unrelated. You never knew with this crazy country sometimes.

"You're starting to remind me of my lil' sis actually, Dusky. She also have a habit if getting meddled into something dangerous all the time, heh. Anyway, Blitz is taking a nap in the basket of clean cloth, and Carmen's around somewhere. She likes to wander sometimes.

And before you get any funny ideas, Carmen's the first model of sentient spiderbots, and she's looking like a big ol' fuzzball of a critter. If you hurt her, I'll jettison you into a star."

That comment were mainly for Null, who he gave a stare to fit as he locked eyes with her again. Little powder keg like this were somepony you had to be wary of, but nopony were gonna hurt his family and get away with it. Either she'd accept the boundaries, or he would quite literally have her thrown into outer space somehow.

"P-Please be calm, we d-don't want to hurt your uhm... P-Pets?"

Void weren't sure what to call the spiderbots, since it sounded like they weren't just machines, but some sort of sentient being like animals, or even ponies. Though how anypony could just make a life out of metal like that she couldn't even start to fathom, and weren't sure if she could trust. Dusky seemed to do so, and the stallion certainly were inventive, what with being able to make wings and all that, but... It just seemed kinda crazy. Still, she weren't sure if it just sounded like it, or if it actually were, and her questioning voice betrayed that to a stallion who lightened up a good deal more when talking to her, compared to the aggressive older sister.

"Pet's? Hah! That's a riot of a comment. Those two are my creations. Flesh and blood of my mind. Far as I'm concerned, they're basically family. And for the record, Felicia's the ugly one we hide away on picture day."

Sure he got a bolt lobbed down at him for that comment, but it were totally worth the bruise on his shoulder.

"She also got a goo hearing.

So, since Dusky's out and about to get this place sealed up, can we start getting you a once-over, Null? Explaining how the wings work are all fine and good, but I doubt you'd get the technical parts, so the important stuff is 'round how they need to be placed. I'm gonna have to take a looksie on the base of your missing wing. You two discuss that, while I go make sure Dusky ain't setting a fire or something somewhere."

Something told him that he weren't gonna able to sort out the details with these two just yet, so they might as well stand and have a back and forth, whilst he went off and did something useful. Shouldn't take too long to find Dusky, right?

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@EQ_Theta

On 2/28/2019 at 3:29 AM, EQ_Theta said:

"Hizhel, Yazma, thank you so much for helping us out," Lin placed herself between the two and respectfully bowed her head with Sen joining in. "We don't have much in the way of payment but we insist on giving you something for your troubles."

Lin quickly opened a gate back to her home village and returned with two small pouches, the sound of clanking indicating small objects contained within. She handed one to Sen, who promptly walked to Hizhel, and the other was brought before Yazma. "A pouch of gemstones. I don't know how much they are worth here but they are valuable to us. Maybe they might fetch a fair price."

"Thank you for the book as well," Sen added. "I'm certain it will be of great help."

Both kitsune were fixated on the gate as it opened, with Hizhel writing down some more in the notebook regarding Lin, as this seemed like some sort of feature that the hybrid, longma female had. Yazma weren't scribbling anything right now, but she'd do so later, since this were fairly interesting for her as well, even though she had seen quite the few kinds of teleportation in her day. The novelty of the act itself had worn out a long time ago, but the varied methods were always a fairly interesting one. Personally, she preferred the *jumping in on yourself* variety, as it also added a good deal of confusion in whoever watched it and had never seen it before, but this were fairly interesting too.

As Lin returned and put the gems in front of the kitsune, the two vixens exchanged an amused look, before flat out starting to laugh.

"They're basically worthless in our society, unless they can be magically infused. If they have value for you, it would be better if you kept them."

This time, it were Yazma who spun her paw and looked on as the two pouched levitated. Within two seconds, they would then proceed to launch over and get stuck on a longma each, who would find that they couldn't be removed. Sure they could change where the pouches sat, but they couldn't break skin contact, and if they opened them, the gems too would just start sticking to them too.

"A fairly simple trickster spell that we teach the youngest kits. You will have to get a set distance away from us before they can be removed again."

"I remember using it on some farmer a few years back. It was hilarious to see him unable to put down that rake again."

The two of them had a good chuckle over this too. Might be they were adults and had responsibilities here, but that didn't mean that they couldn't have a bit of fun. That simply weren't the kitsune way.

"Pleasant stories aside, you too have learned us a good deal, and exposed the faculty for outsiders. I'm sure that will be helpful in out lessons going forward. We welcome you to return if you so wish another time, and perhaps then we can all learn something new."

"Outsiders aren't all that often welcome, so you better believe it's a special chance you're being given here. But yeah, goodbye."

"Farewell, and thank you... For saving my life."

Hizhel's smile got extra big as she heard Rosa say something about how he had gotten patched up. She had started to think that perhaps he weren't gonna be thankful over what was actually a fairly extensive process, so it were great to see that he hadn't decided to be ungrateful after all. It almost made her conjuring that *kick me* sign to stick to his back when everyone had looked elsewhere.

Almost.

When all were said and done, Rosa would wander through the gate slowly, but steadily, and trying not to look like he needed somepony to support himself against. It might help things, but he still had a bit of pride, and wanted to keep that by at least trying to stay on his own four hooves.

Omen would follow along with the two others, with Shrimp curled around most of her neck.

They'd find that there were light inside Stargazer's house, though whatever or not he were actually in there were another question. Might be he were out on patrol or something, but worst case then would be that they had to wait for a little. With the day they all had, it weren't like anypony would be worse off having a little while to sit down and catch their breath, right?

Somepony else would also be coming for the door however. A mailmare, carrying an official looking letter that were supposed to just go into the mailbox, but considering what she were looking at right now, she were just starring at the strange gathering all confused instead. Even for Ponyville this looked weird to her.

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@EQ_Theta @Dji

"I have seen the bird phenomenon before. It happens more frequently than you might think.

As for your mention of a spa, I will need details before I agree or disagree on anything. A spa among dragons are a hot spring near a volcano, or in the case of fire dragons, an open pit of molten magma. What does a pony variety include? What is the density of ponies in a given area there? I don't enjoy sitting crammed and being touched when I want to relax."

Nerzhei's idea of a spa were pretty simple, as this were indeed how dragon spas worked. A strange bundle of things that weren't always easy to set up, but it provided a living for the more reclusive, or family focused, rather than having to hunt for gems all the time, and usually the places were well protected by locals who didn't want to see their spot messed with by some outsider who wanted to take it over or destroy it for whatever reason. Something that she doubted happened here, as ponies didn't seem to invade or fight over turf all that often, which then prompted the question: What were they like here?

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@Moonlit @Zephyr / Karou

Ah, so they were getting along it seemed. Exactly what he hoped for, even though it turned out that Serenade were not an actual local. A thing that actually turned to a talking point, which were certainly deli-

Brittle's high pitched screech stopped his line of thought, along with a sudden feeling of something incredibly pointy starting to poke him in the side. He would not be able to see what the others could, but he would know from experience that she had gotten a panic attack from something, and as always when her emotions spiked, she had an uncontrollable transformation. This time she got completely grey, looked like a mixture between a large armadillo made of taffy and a porcupine, and as such, also rolled up as best she could to protect herself instinctively, as ineffective as her current form would make it. The poking sensation in Briar's side were from the porcupine spikes sliding up and in a few cases into his leg and lower body around the same area, which were sadly not of a wrong consistency, and therefore would hurt.

"Brittle? What's wrong? Talk to me please."

The pain didn't register as much as his worry about what had caused her to flip out though, as he couldn't sense anything was wrong around here. Just seemed like a bunch of ponies and then the two of them, near a strange garden. Had something in there happened? Then why weren't there sound, or any sort of sensation from it.

"D-Danger! Big teeth, f-fins, I-I... *whimper*"

This were a bad situation, as he couldn't embrace her right now and try to keep her safe, and he had no idea what she were on about. What sort of monster were here with big teeth and fins?

"I beg of you, can anypony tell me what she's talking about? I can't sense anything resembling what she's talking about."

One that knew what were going on kept quiet, though the flickering had already made the specter prepare to quickly cloak Serenade if needed so they could escape. She didn't know why the costume were failing, nor what these ponies would do to her siren companion if Serenade were found out, but it were likely not something good, and she wanted to try and keep the seemingly harmless siren out of danger.

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@Lucid_Nightlight

"Wait, we're not supposed to have politics in this?"

Anomaly looked at them beneath a sign she held up saying *Four more crows!", which she then tossed aside where it melted into the wall.

"Lame. I had this big speech about why it was actually the turkeys all along, but I guess that's pointless then."

A large stack of papers were next to her, though if you looked, it weren't full of words, but just pictures and Anomaly making faces.

"Meh, we can talk politics somehwere in private then Lumen, eh? Eh? Come oooon, I know you wanna be my precious little snugglebunny."

The winks and eye rolls were pretty suggestive as Anomaly tried to put the moves on him again. She would've made kissy faces too, but she hadn't any lips, so it would look more like she were gonna eat him, which she weren't!

...Yet. What could she say? Sometimes there was just a little spider tingling in her chest that wanted to come out.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"Ok, ladybug thing! For that, I shall destroy you! Now I just need to guess your weakness."

Lucid placed a big neon sign saying 'Weak to iron, silver, and maybe fire!'

Lumen stared at the sign.

"Hmm... clearly there is no way for me to know her weakness. There's no chance of me figuring out that she is weak to iron, silver, and maybe fire. Guess I can't destroy her then."

Lucid looked over to Anomaly.

"Good thing there is no clear and super obvious way for him to know your weakness, right?"

"We'll have a debate about the crows and ducks later. It'll be on TV and everything!"

"YEAH! ANOMALY FOR PRESIDENT!"

[Early Sunsets 2,107]

@Blitz Boom @Moonlit

"I-I'm not sure," Zephyr said, glancing at Brittle. She certainly wasn't taking the situation well. "So the scary creature wasn't just a figment of my imagination? Great, we're all gonna die," he thought, his mind going into full defensive mode. "What magic would work on a monster? Heat? I don't know if I can burn something that large. Maybe I could just levitate all of us away if it attacks."

"Umm, Serenade, are you supposed to be... shifting like that?" Sun Fire scratched her neck. "I guess I wasn't imagining it, then," she thought. Sun Fire looked at Serenade as she flickered again. "Hopefully Zephyr doesn't just attack her out of fear. I know he tends to panic easily, but she doesn't seem aggressive."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom @Zephyr / Karou Serenade stops talking..."Wait, flickering??" She looks back at herself just as her body flickers to her mature Siren body. "Oh....horseshoes..Princess Luna is gonna have my flank for breakfast." She holds up a forehoof, just as she flickers back into a Pegasus. "There is a perfectly logical explanation" The flickering seems to be picking up speed. 

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

Unexpected.

From what most of Sen and Lin's interactions with other creatures suggested, gemstones are usually considered a valuable alternative to bits. Not so with Kitsune, but they won't argue with them, not with another deadline looming over their heads. Still, the pouches sticking to them grew a little irritating as time would go by but the conditions to undo it was supposedly based on distance. Sen made sure they had everything they needed with them, even Rosa's medicine; it would be a waste of all the effort put in to helping them if they didn't keep up the recovery efforts on their end. 

On the other side of the gate, Lin crossed over first and found themselves right where they need to be. And the light emanating from the inside might suggest their good timing. Once everyone was on the other side, she closed the gate, having regained enough of her strength to perform a task that was previous taxing to her minutes earlier. She walked to the door and knocked three times.

"Hello? Are you there, Stargazer? It's Sen and Lin! We met a while back when we needed directions. Could we talk? It's very important!"

Sen followed suit and proceeded to the door, though upon noticing the mailmare, he backed off and gave her room to pass.

"Oh, sorry. Please, you go on ahead and do what you need to do. Don't mind us."

 Lin caught this and moved away, though this also got her attention on the mailmare's delivery. A letter, very official-looking and likely to be the summons for the trial. A good sign if it is what she thinks it is. The timing of all of these events means it could be a way to lead in to the whole conversation, context and all. They could ease Stargazer into it without rushing or leaving details out. It's perfect! 

In the meantime, Sen walked up to Rosa and handed him his medicines. "Hizhel said you need to take this. Once a day for the next three days, each after sunset. It wouldn't be flattering to know someone has to shove these down your throat if you don't want to take them."

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@Blitz Boom @Dji

"I was thinking of the usual massages the masseuses do for a lot of customers but now that you mentioned you hate being touched, that really lowers the number of options they have. There's still the steam bath and the hot spring tub. That one is probably the closest you could get to a real hot spring. Aloe and Lotus highly recommend that if you prefer to soak alone, though it isn't really the same thing if it is artificially reproduced."

For most of the day, the spas usually see an influx of customers during the weekends. These days, business is fairly slow, only seeing a few customers at a time. Wouldn't hurt to see a few more ponies come in and out more frequently but only Rarity seems to frequent the place more than once a week. She gets discounts whenever she comes by and the masseuses already know her usuals by heart. As for seeing a dragon at the spa, there have been odd customers every now and then, and Spike stopping by a few times has the staff accustomed to meeting the needs of someone with a dragon's anatomy. Sad Nerzhei wouldn't want to avail of this.

"The spa isn't really crowded until the weekends so there isn't much to worry about. It is possible we might even have the whole place to ourselves! You're more than welcome to join us, Twilight. Unless you have other things to attend to?"