open Casual stroll

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

That was… well, quite a lesson. It is amazing how much Amethyst knows about refractions and it will come in handy when raising Shrimp. On the other hoof, having to learn all of this in such a short time is daunting. The siblings know of the things they have seen before: being clingy, glittery fire, gem consumption… those were given. Seeing Shrimp eat berries is familiar and learning about their diet will definitely help; the hoarding will be a little problematic though. Sen had the right call to suggest building a cubby hole in Omen’s room for the little refraction’s exclusive use but as they grow, that hoard stash will have to expand in space. Eventually, they will need to move away from it and provide an entire cave for him. 

Care for the little creature will be a challenging as well but like teaching a young longma to look after themselves, those skills can be taught with demonstration and repetition in good time. Filing those claws sounds a little like sharpening a spear tip only with the need to make those claws shorter. Lin’s work will be cut out for her but that may be the point. With her learning to teach Omen, those skills will eventually carry over to teaching Shrimp. Sen will likely have to also pick up a thing or two to help out later on. 

Both Sen and Lin listened intently with their eyes darting between Amethyst and Shrimp repeated, making mental notes when something important is brought up, which was pretty much everything told to them. 

“Fruits and vegetables, some gems on occasion. Need to instill discipline so our little friend wouldn’t be spoiled. Watch for hoarding behavior. Eventually start teaching Shrimp later on…”

“That’s quite a lot to remember. You really know all of that, Amethyst? Wow.” Lin sat there in quiet amazement, realizing how much she had to take in and internalize. It’ll be a lifelong commitment to ensure Shrimp grows up well.

“I think you’ve covered most of the things I’ve wanted to know about refractions. It’s going to be interesting to watch Shrimp grow up. Thank you very much for sharing what you know with us. It’ll be a very big help!”

“More than that, Omen will have a study partner in several months’ time!” Sen immediately turned to both Shrimp and Omen, looking giddy and excitable, even reaching one claw forward to stroke the refraction along the back. “Doesn’t that sound fun? You two get to learn together! Well, I could say we are all learning a little more together.”

[Rising Dusk 27,852]

@Blitz Boom

Rising Dusk was mildly dreading the reveal of his saddle bag in the back of his mind.  If it was anything like the condition of his hoodie, then he can already see the shocked look of his local dry cleaner pony.  Sure enough, his presented saddle bag was a mess of swamp muck.  It appeared that a little work went into trying to clean it up even a little, but the word 'ruined' might be something he has to deal with in his future.  And he loved this saddle bag.  "Thank you," he told the mare with a smile.  There was too long of a gap in his memory from sleeping to trust his current memory of inventory.  Unbuckling each bag, he picked it up between his hooves and turned it upside down.  Giving it a few good shakes to dump it's contents onto the bed.

Pills, bags of herbs, books, glass orbs, a compass, piles of enchanted red paper, quills, bottles of ink, vials of various colored liquids, a magnifying glass, six gold medallions, and an ancient silver pendant in the shape of an Alicorn.  Running the inventory through his head, he gave the saddle bag a few more, much harder shakes.  A large vial with gold powder, an old tablet with ancient hieroglyphs and Scarlet's pocket watch came tumbling out.  Tilting the swamp smelly bag toward his face, he looked inside carefully before reaching in with a hoof.  His hoof went in much further than what appeared possible from the outside, all the way up to his shoulder before he finally pulled out the mysterious leather wrapped object from his desk.  Actually about a good three quarters of the content on the bed now shouldn't have fit in his saddle bag, part of why he loved it.  Enchanted with a bit of magic from his sister to make it larger on the inside than out. 

Satisfied with his inventory check, he picked it all up with his magic and filled it back into each of the saddle bags in a very organized manner.  Happily accepting the offered books she present for him.  Levitating the more ancient one closer to his face, he flipped through it at a quick pace, burning it into his memory.  Charcoal drawings and old writing.  He didn't know the language off hoof, but going to the library to cross reference the material later wouldn't be difficult.  The drawings though did more than what words could.  The darkness of Harrowmark seeping deeper even into the minds of other outsiders.  Not wanting to be rude though, he put the other books down.  Something to do later when more private time was presented to him.  "Thank you," he again told his caregiver.  Perking his ear in thought to her inquire for further services, he took the moment to take a personal inventory.  As far as he could tell, the only injury he sustained was the hit from the skeleton he used to avoid a further fatal blow.  Only a little sore, he rotated his shoulder just to make sure, and nodded. "Wounds are good.  Side effects of the poison and antidote have run their course,"   he assured her as best he could.  Being part of the O.M.I. may have spoiled him in a way.  The concept of snail mail was long past him for business purposes.  The detective chuckled, "No need for worry, when my time here is complete, I can summon a ride."

Finishing his meal, he levitated it to the table and pulled the covers off.  Not one to sit in bed all day, a walk would do him some good.  "Perhaps questions better answered by seeing," he told Wips and climbed out of bed.  Careful with each step until her got himself onto more sturdy four hoofs.

[Blitz Boom 4,636]

@Rising Dusk

Whilst rising riffled through his bag, Wisp looked on with increasing curiosity at what he pulled out. Several of the items seemed weird to have with one in her eyes, and she questioned what uses he may have of them.

Mainly it were the gold dust, pills and the pocket watch that caused her pause, as Wisp did not see how these would help in a fight against a witch like Twisted. Were they perhaps magical in nature? Some of the other things like the medallions and the tablet certainly seemed like they may be, so this may also be the case for these other objects. It would not be the first time she had known of a watch being used for such purposes, though the outsider had a more benign or benevolent approach to the magic within if it were than what she were used to. These pills may be this antidote of which he spoke, so that were two of them potentially explained.

The gold dust however... She knew not of any spell that needed that, and whilst gold had value in many countries - including Harrowmark - being dust were not a form of currency that seemed practical.

And speaking of practicality, this bag he had were quite something, that it could hold this many items within. Had it a portal within perhaps? It would certainly explain the fact that Rising were able to put so much of his leg within it before, though if that were the case, this were a use of that kind of magic which Wisp had never seen before, and it were honestly quite intriguing. What wondrous things could they not do where Rising came from, if even a small thing as a bag could be made into something far more useful for whomever carried it?

There was one thing more that caught her eye though, and would be hard to take her eyes off until eventually it had gotten packed down with the rest of the items, and that were the silver pendant, showing the form of an alicorn. A sight which caused awe and wonder to dance in her eyes whenever she looked upon it. Wisp wished to ask of this, but as Rising were reading at a pace which made her think that he either only gazed upon the pictures, or had the memory befitting a god, she did not wish to interrupt him, and just kept her eyes on him as he flapped through the pages, eventually accepted the whole lot of books which had been presented to him, and placed them besides the bed.Hopefully whatever he had gleamed from the ancient book would be of some use to him, as the mayor had likely not found much use of it, since Wisp had once heard him in passing speak about not understanding what this book said. An issue they could have once solved by taking contact elsewhere, but with Twisted's and Suusha's influence over the centuries, communication with outsider had become difficult at first, and eventually next to impossible. There were a lot of fences to mend now that he were gone, and she did not envy others like the mayor who had to deal with it.

The outsider would have much to deal with too, certainly, though at least it sounded as if he would not need a messenger raven. Apparently, he had other means to contact his allies, and when the time were right, he would be on his way, and out of their lives. It were honestly not a nice thought, even though Wisp knew that he would have a home of his own to return to eventually.

4 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

Finishing his meal, he levitated it to the table and pulled the covers off.  Not one to sit in bed all day, a walk would do him some good.  "Perhaps questions better answered by seeing," he told Wips and climbed out of bed.  Careful with each step until her got himself onto more sturdy four hoofs.

Soon after that, Rising began to stir and tried to regain his footing. By how he stood, it were clear that he were not yet at his best, and quickly after he began to try and support himself, a pair of large pillows would hover from the bed and stand beneath his belly, ready to both push him up if it seemed he were about to fall, or worst case scenario, soften it, if his knees did give under and he got reacquainted with the floor.

"Please thread carefully, Dusk. Your wounds may not be deep, but you are weakened after your ordeal."

Wisp came over to him and would stand close as he walked along, in case he needed somepony to support himself against as he were trying to get a more stable and sturdy walk going. The pillows would keep being near until she were sure that he were not to fall, though she were still staying at his side in case he had need of her, which to some extend her certainly had, if he wished to see, rather than hear. With that, she supposed he meant that he wanted to see the town. Sadly there would be little to see, but she could present what they had, and answer what questions it may bring as they made their way towards the door to the main room of the house, which in turn would lead to the outside.

There would not be a whole lot to see that he would likely not have expected. All the houses were made of wood, the carts, tools and so forth looked new on occasion, yet the design were old and spoke further of their society stagnating for varied reasons, of which Twisted were likely a grand contributor.

There wouldn't be a single machine or mechanical piece in sight in fact. Everything that were workable in town would be done so by hoof or horn, and it were clear that normally, there were a gloomy vibe to the entirety of the small town, though it would be different now, as there were a party going on further into the town's square.

Long tables of food and large mugs of beverages, music (They seemed to prefer flutes and singing) a large pyre of either logs or wicker parts that had gotten tied up and torched, and what seemed like most citizens celebrating their freedom with joy. Even Thistle were there, and though she could neither eat nor drink, she seemed pleased with what she were seeing, and even to some extend, appeared to be enjoying herself.

Before they'd go outside though, Wisp had a question to ask of Rising.

"I hope you are okay with me asking, but that pendant before... Does it signal that were you are from, there are real alicorns? I have only heard of them in faerie tales."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Hey, if you can secure it anywhere, I got my wagon too. I got some locks on that since, y'know, I wanna keep my stuff where they are. We'll look on it when we get there, but come on, just gonna pass Marley to let him know we're ditching the place, then right over to the portal room."

It would be quick to go over to Marley and let him know they were out, and after also grabbing a few thousand in bits from her part of their earned bits, they'd be getting to the desk again where the mages had set up portals before. It were a simple matter of just telling the clerk then that they wanted to leave, and then pass through the summoned portal, which would ditch them just outside Canterlot.

"Alright, the wagon's a few minutes that way. I made sure to ask that it got ditched somewhere good so I didn't have to go back into town to get hold of it after the auction. Come on, let's get going."

Halfway through the path, a certain issue with the new enchantment that Ruby had would show itself, as a large bear would come growling out of some bushes, and roar towards the two mares. It looked none too happy about them being there, and didn't right now know that one of the two mares ate beings like him for breakfast.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I would say that you should prepare for it. After Thorax were turned, he sent messengers to a gathering of queens to try and turn them to his viewpoint, and to share in what fate he had picked, likely pushed on by the ponies. I fully expect them to do the same with you and the younger of your kind, to reduce the threats from below the waves.

Changelings and sirens being at one another's throats historically though, will require a push from either side. Perhaps I could attempt to accept at least you, and show my kind that there are ways to coexist, or at least not waste resources fighting one another. As this desert is stated to be a sanctuary where changelings can find shelter and safety, you can see why it would be in the best interest of everyone if there were some degree of attempted cooperation there too, yes?"

"I'm not trying to be paranoid here, but it sounds like there's still something you're gaining out of this you're not telling us."

Berry had finally managed to clear the metaphorical hoof from her muzzle and gotten something out, though much as she attempted to reassure that it wasn't just paranoia talking, it were clear that there were a good deal of suspicions on her mind as she asked this. Hence, it were truly a paranoid one, though at least Onache were not slighted by this. Frankly, it were the first time the pony had said anything that made her appear smart to the queen.

"If I gain the favor of their allies, as well as push for an ending to hostilities which would cause casualties for anyone stuck in the middle, the ponies will be more receptive to my claim of this piece of land, and less likely to try and chase me down for past deeds. It is self serving, yet I see no side losing if it succeeds. I can't imagine that you wanted nothing to do with draining ponies, yet would be comfortable to stand on one side of a warfront between you and us. Would you, siren?"

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

 

@Moonlit

There were a pretty long line at the bakery, but they'd be able to get to the front fast enough, so that Serenade could gain her wares in time. Ziggy bought a banana muffin, a doughnut with shiny sprinkles on them, and a nut surprise brownie, with the third one being a bribe for Fah'lina, who were currently slung across the zegasus's back, and taking a nap. it had been an eventful evening and morning, so she could do with a fast one, which were honestly for the best. No risk of her causing trouble in the bakery this way.

"Hey, we made it, yey! Come on, let's get to the train before it gets here."

Ziggy made some *choo choo* sounds and started to walk at a semi-fast pace towards the station, with an eager look in her somewhat tired eyes. The trip itself were likely going to be boring, but the destination certainly made her feel as giddy as she could be, considering the circumstances.  Yet that would take a good deal longer if they missed the train, so... On they went.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

Shrimp purred as he got stroked over his head. He hadn't much idea about what were going on with all the talking and stuff, but he did know that he liked this feeling of the hard claw running over the soft hair and snake-like scaled on his head. Funny to think on how not too long ago, he would have bit Sen if the longma even tried getting near him. He still did so on occasion, yet that were mostly to play. Sometimes as part of an ambush, as the refraction's idea of play could also be described as a bitey version of tag, and you shouldn't warn who you were going for, lest they start to avoid getting tagged in the first place.

Other times, he were just in a bit of a mood and hissed at everypony.

"I do wish there were certain things I could share right now dearie, but I have to clear that first to ensure I keep my friend from thinking less of me. Although I do know some more things that might be of use to you that I do think I can share, however that is more in regards to once your little friend here gets older, and I wish not to burden you with too much at once. Please, if anything does happen with him that makes you concerned, or you simply wish to have a chat and a spot of tea, feel free to seek me out again. I'm sure I can make time for either."

It would be nice to have somepony who would listen to her about this. Refractions were such a rare sight in Equestria these days that most did not even know of them, much less cared. To them, they would simply think it as another story of a breed of dragons. Simpletons honestly, but let that be as it were. Right now she had an audience of beings whom wanted and needed that information as time went on, and Amethyst would have something peculiar to talk with her old friend about. Seeing a hatchling this far from any others of its kind, considering how insanely protective they were of their eggs, struck Amethyst as a highly important thing to bring up at least. Perhaps once these would have gone, she would send a geode to the west and see what response she may get.

Omen in the meantime, looked down at the purring refractions, then slowly back at Sen, thinking on some of what she had just hears, and what Sen had ended up saying. She hardly got anything out of the first part though. Something about Shrimp not eating meat and other diet stuff came through, along with him apparently hoarding things, which she had seen a few times whenever he were done draining the color from a gem. He seemed to want to curl around them and try to seem bigger to get others away from his treasure there, though so far, they had managed to get him away without him winching too much. Perhaps she should find him some shiny things like those and give them to him sometimes? She weren't really sure whatever or not it were a good or bad thing. There had been many big words around that part, along with other parts. Enough to mainly just cause her to give up and just keep what bits she did understand, and add that to a more permanent part of her mind.

More focus were on how apparently she had to learn things along with Shrimp? Some details there were pretty shady too, but she knew that he could say two words, and that it sounded like the mare said he'd get smarter, so perhaps this were more teaching, like the spelling lesson earlier from Lin? She could use that. It had been helpful, and something that Omen would have to train for a while, yet desperately needed.

"So Shrimp will learn to read too? Sounds smart. Important. I will look forward to it."

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

"Oh, you can totally still mess with Rose. Try to put a pickle on a string, and just have it fly around. She goes crazy for pickles."

And you keep your lizard away from me. If he eats me, this entire thread ends, and there won't be a wedding.

"Hey, there'd still be one just because you weren't there, weird hairless monkey man."

And the point when it's not described and therefor no one will ever see or hear about it?

The author felt triumphant as the draconequus grumbled and admitted defeat.

"Yeah yeah, laugh it up. I'll get you for this another time."

Whilst all this went on, Anomaly had ignored Pringle, who were likely none too happy about that, and were big enough to start to chomp on Anomaly like a juicy larvae.

"Wait, what?"

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

Lucid opened a portal to where Rose was at and then threw a pickle that would run around the room and be hard to catch.

"Go get the pickle guy."

Pringle looked at Anomaly for a few more seconds before attempting to eat her.

"Pringle! You don't know where she's been!"

"She's been on the island, so of course he does."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom At Sugercube, Serenade purchase a dozen doughnuts, a dozen muffins, four crispy treats, two shakes and a Hay Sandwich. Oh and two large triple fudge brownies. She giggles, and they both make the train on time. Serenade pays for the tickets and she splurges for the deluxe overnight room. Serenade really hopes the trip is uneventful, and Goddess willing is.

[Seamore Sandwich 471]

@Blitz Boom 

 

“Oh no!  I’m really sorry. I’m so bad at directions I ended bringing us in a complete circle.  Let’s try this again.  This time I’ll have myself a chocolate for focus,” Penny said, levitating a piece of chocolate out of her saddlebag.  The chocolate was white with bits of blue in it, and when she bit into it, it could be seen that it was filled with a gooey filling with a delicious scent of blueberries.  The stuff inside had a faint glow to it, so it was clearly magical in nature.  “You never know what kind of chocolate you’ll need in a day, which is why I always keep a variety on me.” 

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“I’m sure we will come back some time, Amethyst. Between learning more about refractions and drinking delicious tea, this has been an enjoyable change of pace. We’ll respect your friend’s wishes for privacy in those delicate matters. To think all of this happened, meeting and spending time like this because of Filigree…”

It was a funny thought: the threat Filigree brought on to Equestria bringing together unlikely allies was still something neither Sen nor Lin could fathom. If there wasn’t a threat, things would’ve become much more mundane but the siblings getting to learn of the world outside their home in a new light was nice. Befriending ponies was something neither of them would ever expect in their lifetimes and now here they are hobnobbing with someone far above their station on the social ladder. If it were any other instance, no pony would ever give them the time of day.

Knowing all of this would do well to leave a positive impression on the village elder once they share their stories and the longma back home would be a little more open to understanding the world outside isn’t all bad. Of course, both of them haven’t forgotten the likelihood of situations like the kitsune of Neighpon ever coming to pass when outside contact happens. A delicate process indeed but this will need to be eased in. Perhaps if Rosa’s situation ends well, there might be some hope. This will indeed be a very odd tale once they get back to Elder Ghilan, maybe even the village children will be interested in hearing a tale unlike the usual ones told around a fire. 

“Learning to read will be a start, Omen. There’s so much to learn though I’m afraid Lin and I will only be able to teach you what we know. You’ve seen where we live; a simple place like a forest pales in comparison to a real school or library where you could find a book about something Lin or I wouldn’t know about.”

Sen took his cup and took a sip, the tea having cooled down after saying his piece. He let out little smile and evidently enjoyed his beverage despite not being familiar with the taste. This is definitely a far cry from his last extended stay in Canterlot. 

“Now that we can settle this matter with the jeweled heart, I wonder what Rosa is going through with the guards? Maybe we could go back and-”

“Maybe we could have a look at you right now.”

“Lin, I am feeling fine at the moment.”

“Not when you’ve been touching that jeweled heart without protection. Amethyst says we need to be sure you aren’t at risk of having crystals grow over you. That is especially true since you can’t control your healing magic we don’t know for certain if that heart is reactive or dormant. Better to be safe than sorry.”

“I guess. Amethyst? How is this going to work out?”

[FanOfManyShows 396]

@Blitz Boom 

Misty sat down on a couch. "Yeah doesn't look good, honestly even I'm not sure why they'd team up. Maybe sapphire convinced him."

Upstairs, Astral was pacing from one side of the room to the other. "She's lying!"

"If she was I'd not had been there as long as I was."

Astral got up close to him, looking away and grumbling. "Why would you help them?" She stuttered in her anger, holding back just punching him

"They desired their own bodies back, I'd figure if they accomplished that with my help, they'd stop hurting others."

Astral stepped back, grumbling, her eyes glowed as her ears perked up. "Did they follow you?"

"No- why should that matter?"

"The barrier triggered again." Iron looked at Astral surprised. "Well I suppose you didn't know then."

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

"Well seeing as we don't have much to do for now, as far as I know- I can tag along."

General Wing stood up, walking over to the door. "Might need help finding it though."

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

Opal nodded and smiled "I have my own errand to do anyway." She smirked at chariot, who gave a weak smile to her. "hopefully this one can be dealt with soon."

She went back up, instead of returning to the generals, she went outside and teleported somewhere-

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

When Astral went back down to see the door, she instead saw Opal standing there when she opened it.
"Hello mam' I have a few questions about this thing, called the Element of Greed."

Astral glared at Opal, sensing something powerful from her. "I don't know what you're talking about..."

Opal narrowed her eyes. "Well if you don't I suppose I can just tell the guards here there's an earth pony using magic." She smirked at Astral.

She stepped through the barrier as Opal walked back down the steps "I gave it away to two ponies, called Null and Void."

Opal smiled and turned around. "That was so easy wasn't it?" She said, before teleporting away.

This conversation wouldn't go unheard by Chow, seeing how close it was to the door.

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

@Dji

Zealous turned around to her. "To be fair I might've not been that door in particular. Would've been too easy." He chuckled to himself as he entered first into the place.

[Rising Dusk 27,852]

@Blitz Boom

Getting his hoofing was a rather embarrassing ordeal.  Even though he felt himself mentally prepared to depart the bed, his body wasn't quite on the same page.  Nothing ached any more than his sore shoulder, but he was left with a lack of energy for his muscles to perform tasks they weren't ready for.  A little lagged behind, so he wasn't going to be running a marathon anytime soon, but a walk around the small town would do good to remind his muscles how to work again.  A few quick stretches and shakes of his legs were enough to convince the unicorn he could at least leave the front door without collapsing to the floor.  "Just need to get the blood flowing a bit," he assured her with a smile and slowly made his way to the front door.  No pep in his step or a trot to produce, he wasn't getting anywhere fast, but at least it was under his own power.

There were a hoof full of questions he could gain by asking the mare here in the room, but as a pony watcher, he's always found the effective method in just watching.  Twisted and Lily were terrible examples of the ponies in Harrowmark, so he'd need to see for himself how they interacted with each other on his own.  The town outside the room was indeed what he'd call 'simple', very comparable to Equestria maybe a hundred or so years ago.  A darker more simple Ponyville if he wanted to put his hoof on a comparison, well based on the old pictures he's seen of it when Sweet Apple Aches first rolled in.  Or so he read.  There was a bright corner of the dark village though that was filled with celebration and what appeared to be a feast or party.  A sight that he'd figure was a rare thing to happen in a town like this before the fall of Twisted Gears.

Before he could head out to observe the party though, Wisp had an inquiry other than further services to him.  Alicorns in fairy tales?  The detective supposed it could make sense if as much ancient knowledge had been blocked from study by Twisted Gear.   Surely a being such as Princess Celestia who has been raising the Sun every day for the past thousand years was known to even a country like this, at least in the past.  Rising Dusk nodded his head to her innocent question, "Indeed.  Where I'm from, there are five Alicorns.  Princess Celestia, ruler of Equestia and who raises the Sun each morning.  Her younger sister Princess Luna, co-ruler of Equestria, who raises the Moon each night and guards our dreams.  Princess Twilight Sparkle, Equestia's princess of Friendship and barer of the Element of Magic.  And Princess Cadance, ruler of the Crystal Empire with her Alicorn foal daughter, Flurry Heart."

Edited June 5, 2019 by Rising Dusk

[Matrix Twang 338]

Dammit! Storm Button thought, sprinting towards the town of Ponyville, now in clear sight. I stayed there way too long! Sweat dripped down her neck. Realizing her mind was running wild, she stopped sprinting immediately and began to conjure up peaceful, happy thoughts. Sighing contently, she slowed to a swift walk.

Making sure she hadn't spilled any of her load in her mad dash, Button entered the town, which was in evident disrepair. The hell? She pondered, looking past the construction scaffolds and girders for her workplace, Sugarcube Corner. Spotting it finally, she began to run. Unfortunately, this caused some of her load to fall. Noticing everypony else was preoccupied, Button sighed and picked the sugar bags up and calmly dropped off her luggage, noting her boss was seemingly not present. 

I need a coffee! Jumping joyously down the streets, she entered her favourite coffee shop, Sloppy Joe's. Normally she'd commune with a barista, but today was different. A stallion she had no recollection of stood there.

"Excuse me, sir? Might I ask what your name is? I don't recognize you." She mutters, giving a searching look.

Edited June 5, 2019 by Storm Button

[Sekel 694]

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"I'm, I'm, um ... I'm fine," Aurora replied in a high pitched tone. She doesn't like fighting and was shaking like a leaf behind the cart. She had her head tucked under her wing in an effort to block out the vicious snarls from the Timberwolves. "I uh ... I just need a minute."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE

"Thank you for your honesty," Karmic said eventually. She was holding on tight enough to not fall off of Enzo and not get jostled around too much. "I don't know any necromancers, I know that much. Atzy might but she is being ... quiet at the moment, which is a relief," she added and gave a small chuckle which was most likely not heard by Enzo. "You do know I'm a seer, right? Even though it's unpredictable."

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"The Grief Ritual ... I have not heard of this," Twilight said slowly as she examined the title and pages before and after it. She then gained an excited grin and squealed a small bit at the realisation of new information popping up. "Lots of warnings and a few ingredients but nothing I can't handle! This is going to be exciting!"

@FanOfManyShows

WATTS MECHANO

"Yes it would have been," Watts chuckled to herself and followed him inside the shop. It was small, and there were shelves lining the wall while a single library of shelves was in the middle of the floor. A counter top was along the back wall where there was a door leading further into the building. All the shelves were filled with knick knacks and gizmos and gadgets and Watts laughed excitedly. She zoomed past Zealous to see what each item was about in the small shop.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom

Ruby to her usual manner didn't say much, and just simply followed Spicy as quick as she could with the bag of money.

Ruby was first bit confused when the bear appeared, but then remembered the necklace, and though for a short second, the solution would be simple, just take off the necklace, she could handle the curse long enough to chase the bear away, in fact, her added strong emotion would probably make the bear even more terrified, but she needed an explanation for Spicy, since she would surely notice it and put two and two together. She came up with an excuse and then took off the necklace, (the eye too) sending a soundless threat to the bear as she did.
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"I'm not a tool of war." Nada simply stated, one could take it to mean whatever they thought it meant "And I'm not fully sure if I understand what exactly you're asking me." "But I will make it clear where I stand." "I don't care what has happened in the past because I know nothing about it, all I care about is that I can settle down and maybe even have a audience once more." "I have nothing against you or your kind, I don't even know what you are after all, so as long as you are friendly towards me, I have no reason to not be friendly to you." "I also couldn't care less about coming to your desert, so you don't need to worry about that either." "I can try to tell others of my kind to leave the mind control behind, but i won't try to force them, because I'm not capable of doing that." "And if there was to be a war of any kind between anyone, I won't take any part on it, and will do what I have done for the last millennia, hide."

 

[Blitz Boom 4,636]

@FanOfManyShows

Before the alarms went off, Chow cringed a little from the reasoning that Iron brought forth. Sure it made a great deal of sense for at least Sapphire, since if she were just a soul trapped in that gem of hers, then yeah, of course she'd want to get physical so she could get back home with her family. Hay, Astral would probably be thrilled if she turned out to get back alive without a hitch, but that seemed to also include getting Emerald back, which... Ergh, touchy subject there.

On one hoof, it'd sure be good if she had a body of her own, rather than steal others. Partially because they could then lock her up properly.  But the kicker here were that her powers were limited by what sorta vessel she were roaming around with, far as he'd gathered, so what if she got a strong, permanent body? What were to stop her from going on and do something mental after that? Sapphire? Sounded like the two of them had some history that ended with Emerald in her bauble, but if they were teaming up now, who were to say that she'd be able to do something a second time? And that were if she'd even try, and wouldn't just try to take over the country with Emerald.

Urgh, all of these if's and maybe's were dealing his head in. He'd need some sort of info on this to give his two bits on the matter.

Of course, there weren't time to ask that before apparently some sort of alarm went of, and they had to dash over to see who had potentially followed Iron, And that somepony turned out to be: A guard. Solar from the looks of it, and asking in to the element of greed. Not a biggie, right? Yeah, no, it were. Otherwise, she wouldn't have threatened Astral with exposing the mare's magical prowess. Chow wanted to interject something there, but hadn't the luck for it before Astral just spilled the beans, and the mare fizzled away. Darn magic users and their teleporting shenanigans.

"Alright, gonna say here that whoever this were, are gonna end up being bad news for all of us. Thinking we should report this one to the main honcho's aye? And uhm... Not to be a stickler or nothin' Astral, but it ain't really much of a threat to tell the guards anymore, is it? The generals have endorsed ya doing your thing when we chased down Warlock. Pretty sure that long as you don't start sending zombies down the street, you're golden.

Now, before I start getting flack here, I wanna ask something 'bout Sapphire. She ain't... Y'know, going dark side, right Iron? Like, if she got a holster again, would you think she'd keep you lot safe, or pick her sister? Something tells me that Emerald's not gonna stay kosher no matter what happens, so if it came down to it, would Sapphire swing the axe, if you catch my drift?"

Basically he were asking whatever or not Sapphire were with them, or with Emerald, because so far, there weren't a united front between them. It were either or.

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@FanOfManyShows

"That's the spirit. Now come on over here, there's a big map that's used for strategy stuff somewhere around... Ah, here it were."

Tidal Wave pulled a small crystal plate out from a nearby shelf, and put it down on the table. Pushing the top of it would make the plate light up and fold out a large, see-through map of Equestria over itself.

"We used to have a real map, but it weren't all that effective once folks had to figure out tactics. Y'know, folding got to be a pain, moths, all that sorta stuff. So a few decades ago, Screecher's predecessor managed to make what he called a *Projector map*, and it's been a real good help since. We can place all sorts of things to work with us too. I'd show you the crystals for that, but that ain't important right now. What you need to check out is up here."

She pointed to the north coast. Poking at it a few times would cause it to zoom in on it, and show a rather large town (about three times as large as Ponyville) with a massive tower rising from the water itself, along with some other rough caricature of houses. No living creatures or many details were shown though, so this weren't a live map of any sorts.

"This here's Shark Bay, and that tower's where the leadership hangs out. My turf essentially. Oh, and don't get too comfy thinking this map shows everything for the record. Few towns around that ain't updated. We keep meaning to find some sorta way to update this thing, but... Eh, we never got 'round to it."

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@FanOfManyShows

The medical transport would get Warlock to a large room deep underground, where the light would come from baubles hanging near the ceiling. Warlock could likely tell that it were heavily reinforced against magical attacks too, and the long line of guards lining the hall to get here, should also tell him of the importance they put on keeping him from escaping somehow.

"Alright, set him down here on the bed please, and uhm... Y-Yes, secure the chains at the hooks."

There would be some hooks to put the chains in that would keep Warlock down, soon as he'd gotten secured. He could still move his head and neck around though.

"I'm uhm, s-sorry for this, but it is General Screecher's orders."

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

 

@Moonlit

Ziggy would certainly enjoy the train trip, though it wouldn't be as uneventful as Serenade had hoped for.

It were nothing major though. Simply put, Ziggy would just open the window soon as they started driving, put her head out of there, and let the wind flap through her head with her tongue hanging out.

Being curious, Fah'lina had eventually climbed up her head and tried to take part in this. However, the strong winds from the speed they were driving had almost blown her off and after quickly regaining her grip in Ziggy's short mane, she had quickly crawled in again with her fur standing tall out of shock. She'd go into a corner far away from said window for the time being, and eye it with suspicion.

As for the zegasus, she wouldn't stick her head back in before a large pamphlet would fly by and smack her in the face. Seemed to be for another branch of the Apple family's farms, as well as a great face cover until it'd glide off Ziggy's windblown, exited face.

"Hehe, trains are fun. How're you two doing?"

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@Seamore Sandwich

"No worries dearie, and I do agree that you never know what might happen in a given day, so having some backup plans in case something does not go as simple as one hoped can be quite wise."

Scarcity smiled as she said this. Whilst it may be possible to think of what she said as regarding Penny and whatever situation might require the presence of Brick, it were more widespread than that. It included her also thinking of her connections, the things she had at her disposal, and the very many things that she could arrange to happen, with little more than a small message sent down the right channels, and the correct amount of currency for whomever fulfilled it.

Of course, Penny wouldn't know any of that. Scarcity were a master at covering her tracks, and making sure that things went in her favor. And as long as she provided some degree of help procuring and delivering information on some troublesome individuals or items at times for the ambassador, she could enjoy her status as a hidden asset, which would be kept from constant scrutiny, no matter suspicions, as she were worth more to them active than imprisoned. They still had no evidence to hold against her of course, but she did enjoy this extra layer of security.

Her job were more than simply knowing things though. She had to get talented beings for varied jobs, and unfortunately, sometimes that did require her to go against the best interest of the ambassador, generals, and even the princesses. Like if say... She had a need for a particular recent prisoner from the cells here in Canterlot that had gotten rather close to overtaking the country, and paid a high profile gang of hit and run digging thieves from the far north to extract said prisoner to a place of her own convenience. An unfortunate situation for Equestria, yet she were confident that in said scenario, she could contain the tyrannical sides of the individual, and make her a useful pawn instead, under threat of vanishing off the face of the earth without a trace. A surprisingly easier thing to accomplish than one might think.

That aside though,. they had some way to go now that it seemed that Penny had her mind set on the task at hoof, so one should focus on that, rather than potential contacts she may have to ask for preparing a possible team of diamond dogs for something in the somewhat near future.

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@EQ_Theta

"You shouldn't worry, I'm simply going to run a fine comb over you, along with some of the liquid I use against the changeling emeralds, just in case. A moment please."

Amethyst would go over to her shelves and take down a few of the vials she had used whilst being freed earlier on, when they had all first met. After that, she would leave the room and go to somewhere else to get hold of a few combs, ranging from fine-tooth to tick ones, as well as a few brushes. Sen's hair were different from a pony's, and she didn't know what sort of feel and thickness it actually had, so it seemed better to bring a few options.

"Now then, could you be a dear and lay yourself stomach down on the table? I can start to go over things from there. And do tell me if the brushes or combs feels like they're pulling hair out. I'm not attempting to make you bald."

She'd attempt to be gentle with this treatment, but Sen may feel uncomfortable being treated sort of like a groomed dog getting ready for a showing. It were likely not the best thing to go through for him, yet it were necessary to be able to really get through this and find out if something had started to take root on the longma. She had doubts though. It should have shown by now if it were, so it were likely that the heart had been inactive. That, or that healing ability they mentioned had some sort of influence. Amethyst were certainly not sure, as this kind of thing were not something that usually came in over these kinds of things.

Starting with his front legs to see if there were something from the point where he had touched the heart, Amethyst would hum along and slowly brush him. This were likely going to take quite a while, but better to be safe than sorry after all.

"I have seen schools. Many books. Some in trash cans. I can find some later. It will help?"

The books did not always look too good, and had stains, but perhaps they could still be read and help them when eventually they needed to educate Shrimp and Omen. The Ki'Nathar knew of where several schools were that she had looked at through the last few decades, and they all eventually threw out things like this, so she could go find some without much of a problem. More than likely anyway, though it would be random what they had to work with in that situation. A more safe bet were likely to go with library books and then just make sure that Shrimp didn't chew on the supplies, and that Omen wouldn't be tempted to eat them.

"Rosa... Check up now?"

She'd open a gate and wander through it, then another one that would be at an angle so it'd be hard to tell what were going on, especially since the gate on that end were only large enough for Omen to stick her head through, but some of Stargazer's form jumping a little in place, along with a gasp from his muzzle, were hard to avoid biting notice in if you looked. Which Sen also could, as the gates were in front of him. Though it wouldn't be long before the view would be blocked with Omen sticking her head through and looking around on what went on on the other side.

"For the love of Luna, would you stop doing that? We're trying to have an interrogation here."

"Unnerving, right? *sigh* We're doing okay here Omen, you don't have to worry, or check up on me."

"Big chains. Why are they glowing?"

"I will tell you another time. Now please, leave us. This isn't getting any easier when you're here."

Rosa sounded tired, and somewhat broken. Whatever were going on, it had to be draining for him.

Omen would poke back through and close the gates behind her unless Lin had something she wished to do or see for herself how it were going. If she did poke her head through, she'd see a bundle of chains lying on the table, which had likely been used to holding something, or somepony. He'd be unscathed on a bench, tired but seemingly not harmed, in a room with only him and Stargazer, who were frankly looking a little on edge. No wonder when you couldn't even get an interrogation going in peace anymore, on top of the whole thing with his mother being a traitor who had escaped their usually secure cells.

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@Lucid_Nightlight

The room he'd throw the pickle into were dark and full of torn pieces of plastic that were getting vaporized constantly, by the furious faerie-like creature. Her dark eyes would focus on the portal as it were opened, and Rose were prepared to strike through it and demolish them, but when the pickle came into view, everything just seemed to halt in there, and the dakrness began to retract.

"Pickle!"

The excited, gleeful tone of Rose's more kind voice would be heard as she lost focus on most things going on around her and jumped after said pickle to eat it. Around her, the rips and tears in the air were still striking the pieces of plastic that were left, but she herself had gone back to a more happy, cheerful persona that kept jumping after the pickle like a cat after a laser pointer. She'd be busy with that for a time until she'd eventually get hold of it and eat it.

"Hey cool, that sorta worked. Gotta try that another time."

Meanwhile, Anomaly were getting eaten, and her only response to the chunks being taken were giggling as both parts were taken, and new ones grew back near instantly.

"Hehehe, it hurts. Like, real bad. Do it again!"

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@Dji

"Y'know, this is kinda adorable."

Happy grinned down on her, and put his sickles back in his belt. After that, he'd transform back to his pony disguise, not wanting to be seen like he really were just yet. Honestly, even when accepted, he might not want to, but... Yeah, that were going to be a weird one to go through once he were eventually faced with the choice.

"Soon as you're ready champ, we'll get back on the row. And don't you worry none, like you've seen, Happy Hour is here to keep ya safe and sound."

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

 

@Dji

"You sound more like an oracle then a seer to me. Oracles have sight that spans far beyond that of any seer, but few can control their burden. That is what we were told when I were a kitten at least.

What I mean with seer, is one who can control what they see. The tomes once spoke of creatures that looked as you, but with stripes, as often having the sight? Do you know of them."

The isle that Enzo had been trapped on were seen below them as they flew past it, and the sphinx responded to the sight of the large, overgrown temple to their left with a deep, guttural growl. He had no love of this prison of his, and gods be willing, the only creatures who'd get stuck in there again would be whatever dragons remained of those who had trapped him to begin with. They deserved no lesser.

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

 

@Dji

Cherish were somewhat disturbed by the level of enthusiasm the princess showed in regards to this, but she did appreciate that she seemed on board to try this. They'd have to prepare though, and likely have to go to the old castle to finish it once the time were right, as that were the true tether on Cherish's soul.

"I will guard you if you need to move out to finish it. This area isn't safe enough."

Cherish had a small fizzling out episode as the guard spoke. Last had been standing silently for so long that the ghost had honestly forgotten she were even here.

Unnerving in a sense, yet the offer were a good one, just in case. You never knew what might happen during this, or what sort of ingredients that the mare would need. Having an extra pair of well armed hooves to make sure the princess were saved might well be sorely needed.

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

 

@Storm Button

The large earth pony stallion turned to face the one who had entered the shop, as he were called out. He had been rearranging some of the coffee signs there as he had accidentally caused some of them to fall down after he had repaired the roof above it. An unfortunate turn of events, but alas, such were the burden of his work sometimes.

"Welcome to Sloppy Joe's madame. It is I, the great Alonsus Merrywind, and I am pleased to see a new face as lovely as yours."

His voice were deep and soothing, and in his eyes were shown a warmth and welcoming spirit that were befitting of one who had not yet been broken by working in the service industry. By how he poked himself in the chest with one of his large, meaty hooves as he spoke his own name, his rank posture, and the way he had said it however, it also came through that he were rather boastful in nature.

The stallion were quite the sight in this town where looks were scarcely thought of by others than Rarity. His coat were brushed and clean, mane and tail wavy, lustrous in color and full of thick hair, and even from a distance, one could see the muscles rippling beneath the skin of the large earth pony. His beard were trimmed and thick from the looks of things, and the faint smell of lavender and spices spoke of him using perfume or deodorant of some kind. Around his neck, hung a gold-plated peace symbol in a sturdy string, which seemed to have had better days, but were nonetheless polished and hung proudly around his muscular neck.

"I find it impossible to think that I could forget having met you before, so truly, you must be correct. Please, speak of your name to Alonsus, and speak of what need brings you here. Coffee mayhaps? Or have your heart set upon one of our warm dishes?"

It might be mainly a coffee shop, but to accommodate things, they had a kitchen out back that were taken care off by a former Coast Guard. The food were rather good, and they had some who had deliveries done to them several times a week, so it were not a bad investment to have either. Also, it helped them attract customers in the late hours, when coffee and doughnuts were not enough on their own to get them much business.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

The bear got the message loud and clear, and would flee with a yelp, leaving a confused Spicy to stand with a card in her hoof that smelled oddly of something similar to gunpowder.

"Awh, and here I was hoping to show off this thing. Well, guess that's for another time then."

She stashed the card back in her wing, and shrug her shoulders.

"Oh well, there'll be another shot. You know, long as you keep that necklace on. Don't think I weren't paying attention to that. I'm a poker player, we see stuff to really get a read on folks, and that little twinkle leaving ya weren't lost on me.

So, care to share whatever's going on with ya? You got some weird mojo curse on ya that keeps animals away?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"War isn't as easy to avoid as you might think, and neither is being part of it. I see with my own eyes that this pony is following you, and I imagine other ponies will eventually become friends of yours? A war between sirens and changelings would trap them in the middle, as both sides sought to use them to increase their power and gain an edge. You would either help the ponies then, or have to leave them behind, and accept you could have stopped their demise.

Perhaps you can accept that, and just wait until you could find new friends, but my point still stands, that it would be hard to not have something to lose or gain in a fight like that. I would think that all would be in favor of that never being something to have to worry about."

"...Alright, that's a fair point. Best for us all if nopony's gonna end up getting offed by a race war."

"We're on the same page on this at least then. All I ask for you, Nada, is that we attempt to be on the same page on things as well. It will help both of our causes, and could eventually lead to a truce that the ponies would wish for as badly as our kind sometimes would. No bloodshed, no warring, and more than likely, adoration for you on the side of the ponies, for spearheading such a thing. If you are trying to integrate, that could go far in making them accept and care for you, as they do their own, rather than just be told that they had to live with your presence, no matter how they felt about it."

Onache were serving her own ends here more than anything, but she did wish to stress that her plans would include wins for everyone involved, to make this more of an agreeable situation for the siren. If the lot of them - including the pony - would be able to set aside their differences and show the ponies that three races who generally have no love for another could get along, it would be a golden feather for all of them. The ponies could see this as the beginning of the end of a fight between races that spanned many continents around the world, and which had taken countless equine lives from attacks by either sirens or changelings. Nada would be praised as a golden star of her kind, who would have proven her want to live peacefully among old enemies, and squelched a lot of paranoia that would surely come from a siren trying to get into their town.

And as for herself? As stated, Onache needed to have her claim for the land validated, and her existence approved off. She had only a single drone right now and stood insanely weak if she were attacked by any front, and as such, her only smart option here were to take part in making a truce to secure peace for everyone involved. It were the only smart choice when it came to her survival. She'd never be praised as Nada likely would, but she cared little for that either. Let the siren have the glory, and then in return, she could simply reap the benefits. That would also include having to be friendly towards a siren of all things, but... Urgh, it were something she would simply have to get used to.

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@Rising Dusk

"...You're from Equestria?"

Wisp were honestly surprised about this, as she had not thought hat a country this far from them would ever send aid. She had thought him to be from Germane, or potentially Norneigh, yet now it seemed that their savior were from shores far, far beyond their own. That he had come all the way from there to save their small country just made her look upon him with even more awe and respect though. The dedication he must have to seek an evil this far from his home were something out of this world.

"My great, great grandmother came from there. My own grandmother sometimes told of the stories she had passed along to her, of the land of light and warmth, where no gods reigned and the dead stayed so. I did not think it also contained these fabled creatures of wings and horns. We've never had those in Harrowmark.

Well... Not that we know off. Much of our story have been taken from us, and contact to many other places in Harrowmark were strictly forbidden by Twisted. I cannot say what might have been that he didn't wish to be shared.

Still... Are you certain that the sun and moon have been risen by these alicorns? I often look to the sky, and not once have it fallen upon a pony drawing the moon across it. The moon simply are, and slowly draws along the sky in the night, as the sun does during the day. Perhaps they simply put it on motion, and it then takes the round? I wish no offence, and I trust what you say, Gr- I mean, Dusk. It is just that I have never seen something of the sort you speak of.

Though with five of these mythical beings, surely the power of Equestria is undeniable enough to do what you say, and I have then simply missed it."

Putting things in motion would make more sense, as otherwise the princesses would have to always be constantly flying around the world, but Wisp were certain that whatever or not this were the case, Dusk were not lying to her about neither the alicorns, nor this raising of the sun and moon. Having to swallow that some equines had these godlike abilities though, were a tough one that would require her a bit of time to digest. Equestria must truly be a place of immense power if their rulers could do something like this.

Edited June 5, 2019 by Blitz Boom

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

"Pringle! Spit her out or no chocolate covered strawberries from the chocolate fountain."

Pringle would then spit her out. He really liked strawberries covered in chocolate.

"Pringle says you didn't taste good anyway. He doesn't really care for pumpkin, which is weird because pumpkin tastes amazing."

"So... like, when will the wedding happen?"

"I have no idea."

You've been standing there for weeks! Maybe a month!

"It hasn't been that long. It's only been a few minutes."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade is too busy reading a book to hear Ziggy, she's munching on the Hay Sandwich and flipping the pages. She's also humming a tune. She stops, then slides one of the crispy treats over to Fah'lina, then resumes eating and reading. She is in THE ZONE.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“Alright, let’s get this done. I don’t want to be the next victim of a dangerous inanimate object if we can help it.”

Sen let out a sigh in resignation and helped prepare the table with Lin, moving all of the objects on it to one side and lying prone, waiting for the Amethyst to begin her examination. As the mare went over him with her wide array of combs. He has seen such things before but do ponies really need that many? There was much mention of having one as a necessity but more than one sounded like it was too much. Combing was combing and it seemed like having just one is enough. This was one of those things he’d likely never understand. 

As one stroke went over his hide after another, each bristle felt like a tiny spike just inches away from burying itself in. He may have a little bit of hair on the outside but those were tiny. The majority of his exterior was dull brown scales. He tried not to wince though some strokes were more irritable and painful than others. Throughout the whole process, he remained silent as to not worry Amethyst. Maybe the combs were less for moving hair out of the way and more for finding any spots where gems were growing. He might not be able to see them but a comb would pick up on tiny bumps invisible to the eye. 

Meanwhile, Lin thought about what Sen had mentioned earlier and wanted to add more to it. Omen gave her reply and was happy to know about her initiative to look for more books. Frankly, it was a win-win situation… mostly. Why anyone would throw books away is an odd thing to learn about but the smell would certainly be something to not look forward to.

“Thanks, Omen. The books will be nice to have but maybe you can look for them another time. We’re not in a rush to find more. As for Rosa, there’s no need to-“

Before she could finish, Omen opened a gate and wandered through. Perhaps that initiative makes her very eager to get their tasks done. It’s not a bad thing but the sense of timing might not have been the best. Either that or she’s got to watch her mouth before she says something her Ki’Nathar sister will act on. Lin wandered through not long after Omen and caught her just as the latter closed the gate behind her. If there was something happening, she had no idea what it is.

“How’s Rosa? Is he alright?” 

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom

Ruby put the necklace back on before saying anything, since it was rather...distracting, when it wasn't on "You could say that. "I may or may have gotten my hooves on bunch of ancient magical things and it may have had some side effects." "And it seems the thing hiding the eye from those able to sense it also blocks that." "That's all I gonna say." and as she said, she didn't say anything more, and funnily enough, there was hint of truth to it, since she had indeed found ancient magic, that was what allowed her to be here now in this form.

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

"Again I don't understand what you want from me." Nada said "I already told you I have no interest in old wars I wasn't part of, and that all you need to do to be on my good side is to be good and nice." "And if it's me talking good about you what you want, it has the exact same requirements." "And I will naturally try to help forward good relations between different kinds, but I have no capability to do more than ask nicely." 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,636]

@EQ_Theta

Amethyst had brought a few brushes to help with Sen's scales, but sadly, often she still had to use a comb to get down and really scrape between the crevices of the scales here and there, in place where she weren't sure whatever or not something might have gotten stuck. She knew it were unlikely to be all that pleasant for Sen, but she were rather certain that he'd enjoy waking up in a block of crystal even less than this, so it were a necessary evil.

She would attempt to make it as painless as possible though, yet with Sen trying not to give off indications that anything were painful, it made it seem as if he had a higher pain tolerance, and as such, she were perhaps not as gentle with this as one could hope. That being said, she had thus far not found anything, as she got up to his knee and scraped a little below the kneecap as she saw something stuck there.

Getting it out of there with a twist of the edge of one of the combs, she lifted it up with a pair of tweezers and looked closely, yet let it fall to the floor more or less immediately after with a small chuckle. It had just been a sliver of regular diamond. Likely something that had fallen down on him as he lifted the large cluster in here, or which had flown out from when one of the miners bashed into the rocks near him, on the way down the quarry.

Meanwhile, inside the shadow realm, Omen would turn towards her questioning sister with her head tilted to the side.

"Chains on table. Glowing. Rosa looked tired, not hurt. Other one... Angry? Strange look on his face."

Anger were one of the emotions that were hardest for Omen to understand, after a few really tricky ones like love. Stargazer had sounded like he wanted her to leave, but the tone and voice missed whatever meaning they should have had from the annoyed guard. For all she knew, he had been in the middle of singing and that were his singing face. Ponies liked doing that a lot.

Whatever would come of this talk, they wouldn't have to worry about anypony interrupting them at least, as right now, there weren't a sound in this realm. Literally, not a single voice, movement, or anything outside of what noise came from the two of them. it were just a flat, mushy surface as long as the eye could see. Considering everything that were on their minds right now, the lack of distractions were likely welcome.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"There's something ya ain't telling me about that whole shebang, but alright, I'll leave it there. However, if you ever fill like spilling the beans more on what the hay went on to get you that sorta weird curse, I'll hold an ear open for ya. Some folks say it's therapeutic and healthy to share your worries with others. I think they're pulling that out of somewhere the sun never shines, but y'know, *I'm here for you if you need to talk* or whatever. Let's move on."

Joking aside, Spicy did have a suspicion that there were more to this than just some random cursed item making Ruby scare of animals, but she had no proof, so she'd play along and pretend to buy the story. Not outright though, that'd just seem inherently suspicious. More like she bought that were the reason, just not that there weren't some finer detail about said item that'd turn the entire thing on its head.

She should be able to sell it good too. She usually dealt with poker player who'd latch on to any perceived sign of lying and use that, so some random that weren't in that line of work shouldn't be faring any better. 'Course, Ruby might still just be paranoid and think something regardless, but whatever the deal, this were a long term project, and the animal spray effect could be mighty useful at times, so they both had plenty of time distrusting one another ahead of them.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Lemme baseline it Nada: She's saying that she wants to try and get along with us for the best of all sides. It's basically reaching out an olive branch. The rest is fluff about things that can happen and trying to show off the benefits to go along with it."

"Correct."

Were this in her previous iteration, Onache would have used Nada's difficulty in understanding her far more to her own advantage, but as again, she were in a position were she had to try and get past a lot of her old prejudices and methods to make it in this new life of hers, she would attempt to not do so, and just internally roll her eyes at how difficult it seemed to get things through to the siren. Perhaps hiding away for a millennia had made the siren rusty when it came to these sorts of things? Seemed highly likely, but she weren't going to say that out loud. it wouldn't put them on a very good footing for the time being.

"See? Now if you wanna be real nice, how about you just... Y'know, get back into your sand banks and leave us alone? If ever we figure out some sort of thing to talk with you about, we'll come back around."

"Matters not to me. I have a nursery to dig out as it is so my time is spent well elsewhere. Any parting words, siren? If not, I will take my leave."

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

 

@Moonlit

The mimic crawled quietly over and snatched the offered treat before going back into her corner to munch on it in peace, whilst Ziggy would just go back to poking her head out of the window and making excited train sounds. If she hadn't currently been on a sedative and healing up, she would've jumped out of said window and flown next to the train with glee all over her face. It were probably for the best that she hadn't the option right now, or something could have gone horribly wrong.

She'd keep at this until they either stopped, Serenade interrupted her, or three and a half hours had passed, at which point the pill bottle in her pocket would start to shake to alert her that she needed to take her medicine. It was a pretty effective little enchantment to put on something like that to ensure that it got used properly, and at that point, she certainly would take it. Better not to take the risk when it came to her health.

As for Fah'lina, she would eventually crawl under a blanket or pillow and take a nap, curled up with her large ears down her side to keep out the worst sounds of the train and wind.

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

 

@Lucid_Nightlight

Anomaly kicked at the random pieces of her that Pringle had spat out again. Seemed like some pretty good grounds for new parts of her, but it were probably best to either destroy them or eat them. The later of which she did, which were a somewhat disturbing sight for the author at least.

"I don't get it either. I taste amazing.

And the wedding... Hmmm, nopony have responded to the letters, so... You force them here, and I set up a wedding space? You're better with the portal stealy kidnappy things."

With that, Anomaly would take the parts of herself she hadn't eaten yet, and throw them away, then spit a vile-smelling grey substance on them midair, which caused them to expand and form a small area of plant chairs, a chapel, aisle, etc, just with stone coloring. The coloring didn't suit her mind though, so after a roll of the eyes, she would snap her tail, and return everything to a more semi-normal array of colors so it looked like actual plant-life again.

In case the others had then made it so that the kidnap invitations forced themselves active, they'd find that Anomaly's serpanther guest - body and legs of a large cat, in this case tiger, head and tail of a snake, in this case one with raised scales that blended well with the fur - were chained to a hospital bed and unconscious.

If they didn't get him here, she'd know by now and likely dig her way to Canterlot to grab him.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade would let Ziggy have her fun, she would only admit under the direst of tortures(or a Moon Pie from Princess Luna) that seeing Ziggy so happy was kinda cute. At the appointed time, Serenade puts her book down and gives Ziggy a look. "Pill time". She also notices Fah'lina has covered her ears and gently lays a blanket over the Mimic, and sets another one of the crispy treats nearby, for when she wakes up.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“Angry? Hmm… I can imagine Stargazer is angry. Between getting interrupted and learning about Rosa’s line of work, I wouldn’t blame him. If word were to go out about how he is related to Rosa, it wouldn’t help him at all, might make things worse. Now that I think of it, the trial is going to be a lot more delicate. Let’s try and leave that information out but if you are unsure about what to say during the trial, leave the talking to either me or Rosa. Those chains, however… I don’t know what to make of them. I guess all we can do is trust Stargazer to not do something he’ll regret.”

“Come on, Omen. Let’s give them their privacy and head back.”

Honestly, there’s nothing more any of them could do right now for Rosa besides trusting the system. Rosa isn’t hurt but the interrogation is probably taking his toll on him. Who knows how long he’ll be kept under watch by the guards. If it was going to last longer, they’ll have to set up camp again outside Canterlot; the last thing they want is to be an inconvenience to their friends in the city and staying at an inn is out of the question. They don’t have the money for it and already have their living arrangements settled. It would also be useful to have Shrimp work on their diamond chunk in a safe location.

As for Sen, the whole process was going fairly well aside from minor irritations along his hide. That was the case until Amethyst reached his knee and felt something twisting, being pried off. A sliver of diamond, not something he noticed earlier but it was a relief it wasn’t anything serious. The mare chuckling was a good indicator for relief. 

“Thank you, Amethyst. For your help, for the tea, for accommodating us. I hope to be able to repay you for your kindness one day.”

Once Sen had said his piece, Lin walked through a nearby gate and checked over her brother to see she arrived as Amethyst’s procedure finished. It doesn’t look like anything is wrong, a relief to raise her spirits after a poor start to the day. 

“Seems like we’ll have to wait longer. Rosa’s still being interrogated and who knows how long that will take.” 

Edited June 7, 2019 by EQ_Theta

[Matrix Twang 338]

@Blitz Boom

"I..." she stumbled on her words, taken aback by his manner of speaking and word choice. "Um...could you speak like a normal pony, sir?" Her lips twitched slightly as she surprised herself with her impoliteness. Trotting forwards, she gave Alonsus an untrusting smile. "Anyways..please, give me a grande iced coffee, light ice and nothing else." Reaching into her pink personal purse, Button pulled out a small satchel of bits. Retaining her smile and positive mindset, she pushed the satchel over to Alonsus, turning away.

He's...so full of it! Of himself! She kept her gaze away from the stallion, wanting to end the conversation then and there.

[Lucid_Nightlight 923]

@Blitz Boom

The invitations would soon open on their own and would bring Anomaly's guest or guests. Some random other ponies would appear too.

"Who is this guy an why is he in a hospital bed?"

"Oh! Maybe Anomaly did it!"

"Well, it does sound like something Anomaly would do?"

Lucid walked up to the hospital bed.

"Hey guy, wake up."

[Matrix Twang 338]

Betsy Violet hummed to herself as she swept the floor of the dining hall, taking care to not sully her long, turquoise dress. Her stomach growled, but she ignored it on instinct despite a pain rising up. Her build was incredibly frail - it was evident just by glancing at her she was anorexic. It didn't seem to bother her that much, however, as she continued her work during lunch and supper hours despite the Rich's complaints.

Odd, normally Tiara is making some ruckus or other with her friends....Betsy ponders, noticing the odd sense of quiet. Seeing her work was completed in this room, she moved on to the master bedroom. That's when she remembered - the family had gone out for the day. Beginning to sweep the marble floor, a small piece of paper left on the bed caught her eye. Reading it, she rolled her eyes. It was a direct order for her to go eat.

It was just a waste of time is what she said to herself. Less time to work. But who am I to disobey anything, let alone a direct order? Sighing slightly, Betsy grabbed some of her spare change and went outside, making sure her dress wasn't sullied by any loose bits of mud.

She'd forgotten to bring her diary with her, she realized halfway to Sloppy Joe's. Too late now. Plenty of ponies tried to commune with her, but she ignored them. Her orders said nothing about conversation. 

She walked through the doors and saw Storm Button at the front, ordering. She tapped her on the shoulder. "Um. What's good here? Food?"

"Oh...I'm sorry. I don't really know. I'm only getting a coffee..." Button replies softly, surprised the maid said more than zero words to her. They'd crossed paths but never spoken.

Betsy took a long look at Button. She found her gorgeous. She blushed a little bit, then realized and turned away, waiting for Button's order to be fulfilled.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom

"It's not like you have told everything either." Ruby pointed out "And as you know, all of us have our own secrets, and as I said in the start, changing information is like changing anything else, you give some you get some." she had a feeling this wasn't going to be the end for this conversation, as she could tell Spicy wasn't 100% convinced, she just hoped she wasn't smart enough to figure things out based on everything.

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"So exactly what I said I was gonna do?" Nada said "I feel like you purposely tried to make it sound as confusing as possible for reason or another." this wasn't a great start for Onache when it came to Nada's opinion towards her. "Nothing, take care." she then started heading away from the desert herself, the dryness started to bother her.

 

 

[Rising Dusk 27,852]

@Blitz Boom

Carefully the detective made his way out the front door of the house he was being cared for in, measuring each hoof step as he did.  Normally being mentally and physically tired went hoof and hoof, but it became an issue when one was moving at a different pace than the other.  Mentally Rising Dusk felt completely fine and ready to take on the day, but it was currently having to drive the body of a grandstallion.  He just needed to take a bit of extra care to keep a leash on his movement and not put himself into a state that would require him to take a tumble.  The detective would like to notify the O.M.I. quickly of the status on his case.  He knew though that the moment he did, he'd be whisked away to Equestria without getting a chance to close the case properly.

It was to be expected that a pony outside of Equestria would find what the regal sisters do each day rather far fetched.  It was just common where he was from to refer to the act of the sister as raising the Sun and Moon.  He nodded, "More akin to a top that is slowing down.  Each day the sisters give the Sun and Moon a push to keep them in motion.  To the common folk in Equestria, it just looks like they raise them at dawn and dusk."  For the unicorn though, he could just look up at the celestial bodies each day and see the spellworks the sisters cast upon them.  Impressive weaves if he said so himself.  It was surprising though that even countries out this far wouldn't notice the Sun or Moon behaving oddly from time to time.  Such as the time Princess Twilight held the power of all four Alicorns and had a wee problem getting the Sun into motion.  Causing it to spin out of control for a bit.  Probably events that were explained away with their own beliefs outside of Equestria.

"Perhaps now with the dismissal of Mr. Gears, your country will once again be able to uncover its history.  Alicorns in the world are still quite a mystery.  Who knows if there may have been some here thousands of years ago," he added as they continued their journey down the small main street of the town.  At the pace he was moving he'd have to call it a journey.  Closing his case though, there could be a chance that The Captain would report to the sisters and Harrowmark could be greeting Equestria's Princess of Friendship in the future.  She's been pretty interested lately in extending relations with other countries.  Not that he could promise anything though.  He was very far from home after all.  Likely why Scarlet's pocket watch broken after his arrival here, not designed for such distances but he rewrote the spell to push it beyond its limits.  Oh how he envied the ability to teleport.

Approaching the celebration he took in the scene of oppressed ponies freed for the first time in generations.  Raising his hoof in greeting to his short term companion Thistle.