open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,428]

@EQ_Theta

On 9/19/2019 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“They say that, or ‘no problem.’ Ponies still sometimes confuse me but a lot about how they talk and act with each other, I learned from watching them. And I’m sure Discord’s magic is still the same. He probably doesn’t use it the way you remember but if you asked him, maybe he can show you.

Discord wouldn't be weaker because someone told him to change his ways. He knows he is strong. With his kind of magic, I don't think anyone will disagree."

"...Master Discord is hard to understand."

Sen were right, her head were starting to feel heavy whilst trying to wrap itself around what he said about Discord and his magic. It were somewhat simple enough to understand the basics of, but it brought up why he would act like this, and that were tougher for her mind in its current state. At best she knew, the yellow mare had something to do with Discord truly changing, so she also made him change how he used his magic? And he wasn't weaker, just didn't do what he used to?

...It became a lot easier if she just looked at this as Discord being impossible to understand, and the yellow mare somehow being able to. Perhaps another time, she could think over this, and combine what she knew of her master with the things she learned when they met him and Fluttershy some time back, but she'd need time to sort through several days worth of heavy subjects before that.

Perhaps Sen were right in her just having to ask Discord when she next had the chance too. It might be the better option to see what he would do himself, and then listen to him. He had always been boastful and liked to talk about himself, so there might be much to learn. Or she'd just get more confused. They'd see.

"What is strong for Longma? Master Discord have his magic. Ponies talk about friendship. Mother says it is family. Many creatures, all say different things. What is it to your kind?"

A bit of a turn here, but she were curious now that the concept of strength had been brought up. Usually she'd say that magic were the most powerful thing there were, since it could do so much, but perhaps the longma saw strength as something entirely different? Like, how much they could hit things, herbs, knowledge, or something else. It wouldn't hurt to know more about them. Perhaps bring some of that *strength* to them, so that she could try and connect better? Probably not something cursed though. bad things happened then, in her experience.

On 9/19/2019 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“You’ve got it, Shrimp,” Lin cheerfully said, picking up one berry and putting it in the box. “One at a time.”

Shrimp chirped happily, and started to go over and take out the berries one by one, and put them in the box. He didn't wait to take turns or anything, just did what he could to make them all fit in the container, happy that he had learned something new, and now had a food box too, like his caretakers.

It would also give him some more incentive to watch what else they were gonna do in the future, and try to copy that. Cleaning up, how to be safe around certain objects, what to watch out for, etc. Now that he believed to understand some of their reasoning, he would try to learn more by copying other things. A blessing in some regards, though they'd have to be more careful about how they approached certain things when he were around, to prevent him from putting himself in danger.

For now though, there weren't an issue. It were just a happy little refraction, soon standing at a box filled with leftovers and swaying a little in the air, looking mighty pleased with himself.

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@Rising Dusk

7 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"I thank you darling Caramel.  This will be most useful for our weary detective," she cooed and started along the trip back to town again.  "It sounds like the new freedom Harrowmark will have on their hooves will prove quite enlightening to further development," she added.  "We have an agent in the O.M.I. that specializes in alchemy.  He will be most curious to see concoctions from other lands, and the effects they have on our agents," she chuckled.  Oh how the guinea pig Rising will be upon his return.

"Oooh? An alchemist of your own, you say?"

This part had caught a great interest from Caramel, who wandered along with Minty and looked at the mare with an excited, intrigued look in her eyes.

"You simply Must give him my warmest greetings, Minty. A colleague in this delicate field is one thing, but one working for an esteemed mare such as yourself, who clearly holds only the finest beings under her command? Why, I'm certain that he and I could have many a thing to speak about, and so many things to learn from one another.

Do tell, what things fascinated this delightful young stallion's heart? Poisons? Hah! What am I saying? Working for one such as yourself, I imagine him being above such dishonest methods unless required. I would assume... Bolstering effects perhaps? Healing remedies certainly, given you and Rising's tendency for a hooves on approach so far. Potentially some less used things, such as potions easing in translation, anti-magical salve to deal with the aftermath of certain curse effects, or elixirs to commune with the departed? If he does not have some of the later, I do wish to share such knowledge with him. There are so much one can learn from the dead, but it is so dreadfully difficult to make safe contact, or to understand them, and necromancy gets so... Droll and problematic, what with the usual requirements and potential risk for out of control risen, or accidental possesion. A simple concoction to mere be able to see and speak with them for a time is far less troubling.

...What were I talking about again? Ah yes, your alchemist, of course. Do tell of this undoubtedly skilled stallion of yours, if it is not too much trouble of course."

To think, the O.M.I. had their very own concoction maker. She felt almost giddy about it, as this info came right after she had wondered where she might find someone of worth in Equestria to talk profession with, and potentially make some favorable trade for both sides. Now, it seemed all but certain that this one would be the one her sight should primarily be on, as she were convinced that Minty would not let him be in her ranks, if he were not exceptional at what he did.

Hopefully he would not be one too full of himself, thinking that there were nothing to be learned from others. Hubris tended to be the downfall of many potentially great minds, and Caramel would be lying if she said that she had not felt the bitter sting that this could lead to herself. Things that had learned her to be more open-minded, which she certainly hoped this stallion would be as well. Harrowmark might be further back in their development than Equestria, but that did not mean that there were not plenty to learn from here, and he might find that this experienced mare had some tricks up her sleeves, which could end up to his benefit.

8 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"The swamp is still standing,"

"Your captain are a powerful mare if you can judge whatever things have gone wrong, on whatever or not we still have a swamp."

"Hopefully we will keep having one too. There might be many dangerous things shambling out of it, but we need the resources."

Sickle let out a sigh and nodded. Wisp made a fair point that they did need the swamp for the resources the dangerous ecosystem could provide, but still, she had lived a long time by now, and could often see more bad than good out there, so if it suddenly got leveled...

No, it was a silly thought. Even if somehow they'd manage without it, the upheaval it would cause in the magical flow of the area, were likely going to cause some sort of backlash. Whatever that may be she didn't know, though it would probably not be a pretty sight.

"Oh wait, I think I see them there. They seem to be safe."

Wish let out a sigh of her own, though this of relief at seeing the two mares approaching in the distance. None of them seemed to be limping, running, or chasing anything, so whatever had been the matter, it had been more than likely dealt with, and without much of a spectacle. Just a few risen or some wicker creatures after all then, huh? Hopefully they hadn't gotten too bored dealing with that sort of low rung resistance.

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@Moonlit

Ziggy let's out a big gasp as she sees what Serenade is about to do, but are unable to move away before the siren is in the air, about to hit the water.

"Protect the captain!"

She rose her wings and used them to block the water as best she could from bashing into the filly, whilst herself getting slung back in the process by the wave. This were really not well thought out, as it turned out that now, she were spouting out water like a hose, and completely drenched, whilst unsure if the filly were even still on her.

"Captain? Are you there? *gasp* Don't be in the water, the waterlady and her fishlings will snuggle you to death!"

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@Etched Daydream

"Yeah, we're diverse alright. Word of advice though, stay away from that one. Hollow Moan is the creepiest thing I've ever met, and I've run into kelplings. Before I met her, I would've never thought that anything could spook me more, but that one right there... Urgh, just trust me on this. You don't want her to suddenly get an interest in you, and if she does, just let her do her thing, and scurry off before she gets fixated."

Yeah yeah, this one had her purpose, and she were a necessary pony to have around, but... She gave her Tidal the heebie-jeebies, alright? The less she thought on the ensign the better, and with Thunder cheering up, she did feel a whole lot better already. Like he were some sorta cheerleader. Heh, she should try and arrange something around that actually, during one of the wrestling matches. The announcer might want to have something more to talk about, or a chance to get a break.

"Anyway, moving on to better topics, I sure hope you'll like it around here. We try to make it homely, and there's some great camaraderie going on.

Now, what's this about you and crashing? I ain't judging, just wanna know if it's a common occurrence, so we can get sorted you needs a suit of armor that's a bit more impact resistant. And a bigger helmet too. Perhaps some knee pads and a pillow strung to your stomach too. Heh, or we should just roll you up in bubble wrap and throw you at enemies to confuse them? 'Bout as safe as you can get."

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@EcstaticWind

"Adventurer or not, perhaps you should still make contact to either of them some day. They are delightful creatures, and have a wealth of fascinating stories to tell. But I am not to tell you what to do after all. I merely set the pieces. What you then decide to do with them are up to you."

Briar let out a short laughter and shook his head.

"Dear me, that did not come off in a pleasant way. I do not mean to imply that I see them as pieces to be manipulated with. Hopefully my actual intent shone somewhat through, and I do apologize if that came off as slightly... Menacing, I suppose is the right word."

Behind them, Brittle were long since done making the bed, but she kept at her distance and just observed them quietly from a corner, trying to blend into the shadows as best she could so she wouldn't get the attention. She found it better to just watch, and try to be more comfortable knowing that there are others near her, instead of worried they'd suddenly turn and assault her. Actual walking up to and talking were still some ways off at this point though, without her emotional support next to her.

"*sigh* In any case, you make a fair point. If the adventuring life first gets to you, it is unlikely that you will be able to simply retire from it and feel yourself. The wanderers heart yearns for the road after all, and the path can be as treacherous as it is magnificent.

Perhaps you would indeed do best in staying here, and then see if help cannot reach you instead. It would allow you to focus on your life as it is, without risking losing yourself or your life to the wilderness, yet potentially still reap some benefits that could greatly help you. Please, I am certain that I could ask any of them to travel and find this without it being a bother to you, or being something you need to worry about. Several of them do owe me favors, and I know at least three of them adores Germane, so they would not have to be convinced for long."

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@Catpone Cerberus

It wouldn't be much longer before the feeling of the cart landing shook through their transport, and soon after, the chauffeurs would show up and let them out. They gave a smile and a tip of the hat, but beyond that, they were clearly already eyeing the next pair that had hired them and just waited, so Spicy didn't bother them all that much. Had to keep the work flowing to not be pushed outta the market, right?

Looking around where they had landed, it was at an outskirt, yet there'd still be a great view of the sprawling town in front of them, with everything the heart could desire. From grand casinos, to small dive bars, streets lined with vendors and performers of all kinds, tourists flocking wherever, and then of course, the occasional local. Easy to spot as they were either the sellers, or wandered around looking like nothing really amazed or surprised them. Couldn't avoid getting a little jaded she supposed, but who cared? This was gonna be a blast.

"Just look at it, ain't it beautiful? Everything that'd lure a sappy fool around every corner, and if you know the streets well, a vendor for any decent vice you might have. Come on, let's get you enchanted so we can get going."

She pointed at a line to their side, where at the front, stood some unicorns working hard on casting some sort of spell on the tourists.

"Cloud cities, y'know? Pegasi like me can wander 'round no issue, but anypony else needs a little spell cast on them just to be on the safe side. It'll last for a week, so no worries, you won't suddenly fall through outta nowhere. And yeah, it's free. The tourists board aren't dumb. They know a good investment when they see one, and in this town, it's all about getting folks in to spent some of that hard earned cash."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Well, I'm just gonna have to keep remind you then, don't I?"

The mare got a big grin on her face.

Had she been told a few days ago that she'd be making friends with a siren, she would have looked the one telling her that in the face, and asked them if they'd hit their head recently. It just seemed so unrealistic, considering the stories about their kind, y'know? Yet here were just the sweetest thing - long as you weren't a fish - and Berry sure couldn't imagine not having her around anymore now. Her and Serenade were some really good examples on why you shouldn't just judge by race alone, and honestly, while she hadn't said so directly, Berry kinda thought that Nada were her best friend.

Don't get her wrong, her foalhoof friend from the old grounds were a dear one, who she'd always treasure, but their interactions were basically just letters since he couldn't get over here for varied reasons, and she didn't visit her old home because she were sure they'd try to get her back into the loonie bin if she got close enough, so much as he meant a lot to her, it were hard to be best friends with somepony you only saw in the occasional photo.

Now again, Alonsus were a real good guy too. Close by and somepony you could always count on, but sometimes he just got so darn grating.

Nada though? Sure they had their ups and downs in the short time they'd known one another, but it felt more like them just binding through unusual circumstances, and it sure weren't boring to be around her, that was for sure.

They'd see if it lasted she supposed, but Berry hoped it did. This scaled wonder were gonna be sorely missed if something happened to get them separated for good.

"And you shouldn't sell yourself short with the princesses. Believe me, if they didn't like you, you would've felt it. I got documented proof on what happens if you get to be their enemy, and let me tell ya, it's some nasty business. That banishment the sisters went through ain't nothing compared to some of the shadier stuff that's been attempted to be removed from the history books."

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom The foal has managed to keep her position on Ziggy's back, but her mane is wet and covers both eyes. She spits out some water, "CHARGE THE WATERLADY! GET ME CLOSE, I WANT TO BOOP HER ON THE SNOOT!" Despite her size, the foal has a good pair of lungs, Luna would be either proud or jealous or both. Serenade on the other hand, is mostly under the water, only her ears, eyes and top of her muzzle are above water. The look in her eyes is predatory, Ziggy and the foal are going to be snuggled...endlessly.

Edited September 21, 2019 by Moonlit

[Galaxical Phoenix 68]

@Blitz Boom

 

Eventide Melody blinked, a bit surprised by his sudden change in tone now that they were more or less alone, but at least she could see why.

“It’s fine. I mean, I have been raised to be probably the most cautious *cough* and paranoid *cough* pony in Ponyville, but I didn’t want to be rude. You’re nice. I mean, you seem like a nice pony. Yeah.”

Eventide tried to maintain eye contact in the least awkward way possible, but as she had recently discovered, it was kind of hard. For literally no reason whatsoever. What the hay. Why.

Great going, Eventide. You’re officially the most awkward pony in Ponyville, too. Cod, even Cover Up isn’t as nervous now. The tables have flipping turned.

 

[EQ_Theta 415]

@Blitz Boom

What is strength? What a question to ask that Sen was fairly stunned into silence as he wasn’t quite sure how to answer. Simple enough as he heard it the first time but the answer wasn’t easy to come by. Ponies seem to have figured it out, Mother already has an answer to it, Discord is pretty much emanating it by appearance alone…. What would the longma say to that and more importantly, what would Sen think?

The longma paused and gave this a lot of thought, perhaps an uncomfortably long time before he could give an answer. It was a good time for some self-examination but this might keep him up long past his bedtime as even he might not be satisfied with whatever answer he gives. By virtue of the question, he could give an answer from an average longma’s perspective or by what he thinks it might be.

“We… think we are able to do everything on our own,” Sen replied though seemingly unconvinced. “The longma don’t like outsiders and so they are reliant on their own talents to get by. Strength to the longma is proving we are capable at being independent.”

“More like being superior.” Lin added, voicing her own answer to the question from another end of the cave, the sound of scorn and disgust obvious in her voice. “It’s all they are out to prove to anyone who isn’t them, even if they have to get hostile about it. Partly explains why they dislike outsiders so much. It doesn’t apply to everyone but it doesn’t make it any less true.”

“Honestly, Omen, this is a question that doesn’t have one answer. I admit Mother’s take on it sounds better. Has a nicer ring to it even if it is a little… heh, sappy.”

“Agreed. We don’t have magic on Discord’s level and we’re still learning about ponies’ definition of friendship, but family? I can probably see what Mother meant by that. We’ve accomplished a lot together since we first met, even if it isn’t on a grand scale.

If their shaky, inconsistent orally-passed traditions would indicate, it paints a somewhat clearer picture. Even Sen and Lin weren’t sure if their history is accurate and all that smug superiority really came about because no one remembers why they were isolationists to begin with. Maybe something to consider doing in the future. Lin said her piece and turned her attention back at Shrimp. She’d grab the wicker ball from earlier and roll it around a little bit to play with the refraction in the meantime, slowly moving back towards the group.

[Blitz Boom 4,428]

@EQ_Theta

"Being able to live without help? I understand that a little. Mother says that is important to be your own. A part of life."

Omen and her kind were simplistic creatures with little to no idea on what to do without being told so, and were it simply up to them, they would likely be happy to spend eternity as loyal followers, never having to think.

Yet among the few things that Mother insisted on imprinting them all with, were that they would be created to serve, yet at the same time, were expected to learn, and in time, make a life of their own, independant on a master. Be it by their deaths, or just naturally one day leaving them behind, thinking that they were ready for the world they were in, no master/servant relationship were meant to last forever. Eventually, ties would have to be made, or they'd have to be part of their former masters life as more of an individual, such as with Omen's nephew's mother, who had eventually married her former master and started a family.

Like with the longma, the idea that you were supposed to live without being reliant on someone else were ingrained into them, yet at the same time, it sounded as if there were more complicated layers to what the Longma went through, compared to the Ki'Nathar. The shadowy creatures were not meant to shun other races, or throw away any offer of help, just because they became able to stand on their own, varied amount of limbs.

The longma went further than that it sounded like, keeping entirely to themselves, and wanting to be completely self reliant. Omen could not follow their thinking that far, but she could relate somewhat to the notion that strength meant being able to deal with things yourself. To a point anyway.

"Longma way sounds close to that. But lonelier. Stranger. I do not understand how being alone makes you better than others. How do you learn things? Get better? Every place is different. New things to see, to learn. Staying away sounds like it would make you dumber."

She could attest this. Staying in Mother's realm for millennia, rather than go out and learn things, made her objectively foolish compared to far younger beings, such as Stargazer or Rosa. Sen and Lin were closer to her, as they too had been isolate throughout much of their lives, yet they had a wealth of life information to fall back on from said village, so when they went into the world and saw some of it post exile, they had the ability to understand it better than Omen had, when Mother had told her that she had to return to Equestria and try to find some meaning on her own.

In her mind, she understood things best as you needing to be able to make your own decisions, but be ready to ask for help, and still seek answers from others. Otherwise, you'd end up like her, trying to learn how to even communicate with others, from beings who were far younger, and should realistically look to her for the wisdom that millennia of living should have build.

Some grave topics going around now, though for one of them it didn't matter, as he didn't understand a thing they were on about. Shrimp just let the big creatures talk and enjoyed himself with batting the wicker ball back and forth with his head, with a big, carefree smile upon his pale little face.

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@Moonlit

"Full chaaaaaarge!!!"

Ziggy didn't match the tone of the little one in volume, but still gave it a good shot and paddled forward as quickly as she could, aiming to ram the dreaded siren, surely laying there just waiting to draw them into a dastardly trap. Yet the captain had given the order, so as faithful ship, Ziggy would swim straight into this trap and get the captain close enough to give Serenade the finishing blow. Surely she would not be able to stand after the might of a most powerful boop to the snoot?

Hah, of course not! This were gonna sort this straight out, and then they'd be victorious. Or the captain would be at least, whilst Serende might steal Ziggy away. *sniff* The faithful vessel, sacrificing itself for the captain post snoot-booping. A fairy time story as old as time.

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@Galaxical Phoenix

"It's just good to be cautious and paranoid. There's a lot of bad things out there that can come for you. That will... Hurt you..."

Cover averted his eyes from her and subconsciously ran a hoof over one of the longer scars on the right side of his face, where a tattoo were covering it, along with all the others. When he noticed what he were doing, he'd get a slight blush on his cheeks and put his hoof down, then cleared his throat a few times while he tried to think of what to say now. How could he still be failing this, when there weren't all those judging eyes on him?

"...Where I'm from, everyone have to be concerned about what can happen, with all the risen, wicker creatures and witches, it's dangerous to trust.

Uhm, I g-guess perhaps that's not clear here in Equestria, what those things are. I never s-seen any of them myself, but the way the others talked about them, it's like... Undead, dangerous creatures made of gnarled wood, and beings using magic without a horn? I think that covers it. P-Point is that they're dangerous, and if you're not careful, you'll end up like them too. I've been told that's why we fled to Equestria, before... N-No, never mind. I'm sure I'm boring you already with this.

So uhm... The one who raised you, is it the yellow mare? Perhaps that strange one at the cafe? I-I don't mean that they're strange if it's one of them. Just different, yes. Obviously. I would never say anything bad about someone raising you, since you're a nice, smart mare, and clearly you've been raised by someone whose also smart and... Oh gods, why must I feed on my own hoof so much?"

Cover started to feel a little mortified as that last part got out, and his hoof got in front of his muzzle to stop himself from talking anymore. That had been supposed to be an internal dialogue, not something said out loud! Eventide would surely just roll her eyes at him now and leave, or point and laugh at the weird colt that wasn't able to talk like a normal pony. And he had Just thought that perhaps, he'd be in a calm enough mood to hold a more normal, good conversation.

But nope, he went into a quick slam into a bad memory, then on to try and connect by sharing things she likely didn't care about, before going into a confused mess of attempting not to insult her potential parent/older sister of sorts, depending on in which capacity she had been raised. Oh right, and then he topped it off by spurting out what were supposed to be a lament on himself, that had been meant to only go through his head, not through his big, oafish muzzle!

He'd have to try and find some way to salvage this. What to do, what to do..?

[Sphinx-Ara 3,517]

@Blitz Boom

Thunder smiles "Oh just me being a bit careless" he would admit "I ought to be fine though" he would then laugh at the joke about the pillows and kneepads or bubble wrap "Trust me, it doesn't happen as often as it used to, Flutterrshy has actually helped me be less reckless" he chuckles "It actually worries her when I crash badly enough to injure myself, poor mare worries so much about me"

[Catpone Cerberus 23,427]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby just nodded when Spicy spoke, she knew about the magic required to walk on clouds, but she had never really tested if she would be able to do that naturally or not, and now wasn't time to test it either, as it would only bring up questions regardless the end result. So, not having anything to say, Ruby made her way to the line to get spell casted on herself, hoping her true nature didn't effect the functionality of the spell, because even if she could fool every creature, magic wasn't necessarily fooled.

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"Oh, I know they don't dislike me, but what I'm saying is that I'm not sure if we are quite friends yet." Nada informed, and this time the reason for ignoring Berry's latter words was different than usual, this time she actually believed her, because even if it would end up to be true that ponies today were nice and accepting, she knew they weren't like that always, after all, she saw it with her own eyes with the banishment. "Because in my opinion friendship requires a bit more interaction than what I have had with them."

 

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade watches, as you get close...The foal reaches out and BOOP. She rears up, "ARGH! I have been deafeated!" She rolls over, forelegs in the air...."Blargh....I dead" She lets out a blast of air underwater, causing bubbles...then remains still. The Foal giglges, "I Have defeated the Siren! I am Queen of the Seas"

[Rising Dusk 26,083]

@Blitz Boom

What a rather curious mare the younger pegasus has become the longer she spends with Minty.  Not that the larger unicorn minded the attention in the least, of course.  Recruiting for the O.M.I. was a very picky process, needing to make sure she selects from the best in their fields, or at least close to it.  The O.M.I. in Manehatten was still a beta test to show the Princesses how viable the agency was for further expansion.  Many thought it was odd that she'd recruit an earth pony, and later a pegasus, into an enforcement office so focused on magic.  Alchemy often helped fill the gaps that magic couldn't in the big picture.  That and not every part of investigating a crime needs a horn.

"Oh, Bash is well versed in his discipline.  He even studied abroad with the Zebras for many moons.  Not the biggest talker, or emotional expression, but he has a kind heart.  He's always on the look out for new brews to make.  Healing potions, remedies, curse cures, enhancement salves, sleeping agents, paralytics and yes poisons.  What better way to make an antidote than having the poison on hoof to study.  While poisons, even in our culture, might be viewed as evil or underhoof, they have their uses.  The Power Pill that Rising used in his battle against Twisted was technically a poison.  It prevented his body from performing its normal functions, much like a poison.  In the interest of survival living things have limiters that keep them from pushing their bodies to 100% so as not the break.  The pill turned Rising's limiter off, destroyed it in fact, until he could take the antidote and restore it.  If not, it could prove quite fatal.  Bash is also a very talented botanist and has plants for just about every occasion.  Some of his herbs can fix you right up with even needing to be brewed," Minty rambled on as the town finally came back into view.  Good thing too, because this performer was in need of a drink at their little adventure.

Rising Dusk had meant his comment about the swamp to be a joke, but he supposed that was only the most effective with those that actually knew The Captain.  Causing him to smirk just to the make just the joke at least got the smallest amount of attention.  "Resources are important to have.  No swamp or forest isn't without its dangers.  I'd be curious to see what happens to the swamp with the goddess's light now being pumped into it."  Waving his hoof in greeting to the returning town guardian and Captain of the O.M.I.

[EQ_Theta 415]

@Blitz Boom

“Well… when the longma are amongst themselves, they aren’t really alone. There’s knowledge passed down from generation to generation, learning little by little. Even we haven’t explored the entirety of the forest we call our home and some of the longma claim there are whole new places beyond that are no longer part of the forest itself. Some will argue that we can still learn and explore, better ourselves, but only on our terms.”

“And yet you raised very compelling points. Without accepting that there is a world beyond the forest, the longma as a whole stagnate, fall behind while everyone else has already moved on. What you said? You already sound wiser than more than half of the longma!”

There was always something new to learn, see, experience. Frankly, Sen and Lin might have seen that more than most but that was because they had no other choice. It wasn’t an easy thing to accept and being reminded of it everyday for years only hammered in that fact. They were no longer in familiar territory, some longma would joke that if the siblings stayed any longer in pony-occupied lands, they’d start losing their draconid features. They’d probably return as ponies.

Omen’s personal experience has more credence now that it would make her a wealth of information on lands outside of the longma village, on top of having the life experience needed to show the downsides of isolation. Yet there is a counterargument to that matter, something that could catch the flaw in the siblings and Omen’s perspective.

“Hmm… I just remembered that even with the world moving on without the longma,” Sen pondered aloud. “they are still able to carry on just fine. They didn’t need to know what was going on beyond our borders because they wouldn’t affect the longma anyway. What are your thoughts on that, Omen? It is fairly sensible when put that way, right?”

[Blitz Boom 4,428]

@EQ_Theta

Omen would have answered, but her brain had cut off around halfway through what the two of them had been discussing, finally reaching her breaking point for unsorted information.

If she had been able to, she would have added herself as an answer to the final question that were aimed her way. In her mind, she would see herself being a good example of while being able to survive outside the influence of others, and not technically needing them, it caused stagnation the further removed you became from everyone else. She were still alive, sure, but what had she gained in the nearly three millennia she just sat and waited for her masters return? Nothing. There were no outside input, no help, just isolation and being contend with trying to cling to a past that had slipped away, the moment Discord had been trapped.

Of course, she wouldn't have been totally right in this. The longma were seemingly self reliant, but also evolved at their own pace, away from others, which while putting them behind in some aspects, still allowed for a functional society were growth weren't stagnant, as much as delayed and limited. As a society, they had found something that worked, and there were merit in that, whereas Omen had just been put in complete limbo. A perspective that were among several things she were trying to grasp now, as her mind tried to process several things in the hectic time that had passed recently.

It should be somewhat easy to see that she had gotten into this stage as she did not move a muscle, nor replied to anything, and even shaking or poking her would do nothing this time. For the next three hours, this would be her state, before she'd rouse up as if nothing had happened, and wander silently outside to look into the sky, and process some more things as Sen slept. Unless Lin interrupted her for some reason, yet hopefully she would not, as the mare needed to get some things clearered sooner, rather than later, or more of these episodes would happen.

As for Shrimp, he wouldn't bite much notice in how Omen acted at first, and as he eventually would take notice, he's try to tug and nibble her a few times without result. Something which would ahve made him nervous if he had not seen her like this before, and just thought it were something his caretaker did. Like sleeping, but standing up, and starring straight forward without any spark of consciousness hanging in the pale eyes.

He'd take to follow Lin for the rest of the time before they went to rest, and wrap himself up in a small circle on her back eventually to get some rest of her own. It had been a long day for him as well, and he could use sleep as much as anyone else here. Especially if the two of them played with him some more before this, as he'd happily comply, and just spend even more energy on this. Hopefully him needing to sleep this much were going to change as he grew older, like it did in several other species when it came to the early stages/years of life.

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

 

@Moonlit

"And thus, the scourge of the sea have been defeated. hail the queen!"

Ziggy splashed with her wings in an excited manner as the filly paraded herself forth as the rightful ruler of this pool of water. Clearly, with Serenade undoubtedly defeated with no chance of ever coming back from that crushing blow, there were no doubt of the filly's claim. They had to try and get her a little patch or something that said captain later. Ziggy were pretty good with a sewing needle, so that could be a fun little side project.

"Let's get to the shore to tell the world! They must know who the great booper of siren snouts are."

With that, Ziggy started to paddle towards the edge of the pool, aiming to set the filly off there, unless there were some objections on her behalf, or - unlikely as it seemed - Serenade had just taken a dive and were about to pounce up and drag her down underwater. Naughty trick the siren had done to her a few times, and unfortunately, something that had given Fah'lina ideas in the process. It was unfair with two underwater predators against one pegasus!

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

 

@Rising Dusk

"Ah, so that would explain why our dear savior were in such a grizzly state when Thistle floated into town with him in tow. Such a marvelous usage of poison and antidote to seize control of the body's very limit are extraordinary, yet the limits are there for a reason. Removing those for even a short while would wreck havoc upon your system. *sigh* Such a shame that the regular, mortal coil can be so very lacking, when one need its full potential."

If you looked past her small sigh and begrudging statement about the body being a fickle, weak thing, Caramel were still looking as thrilled as could be, from hearing what she had about Bash.

A social recluse were what it were - they could sadly not all be as grandiose as Minty were - yet he sounded well traveled, and with a broad, hungry mind for alchemy. Finding usage for even the seemingly most vile things, and strive to make something good of it, spoke well of his skill set, and clearly it were working too. Sure it had some side effects, but nothing powerful tended to be without, and Rising had prevailed through the process, so the countermeasures clearly worked too.

Before hearing this, she thought Bash one that she would want to meet, as he sounded like he might be a pony of high skill. Now however, she knew that it were more than that. She Needed to meet him, as clearly, they would have a lot to learn from one another. Perhaps she more than him? Hmhmhm, they'd see, but she wouldn't be as surprised anymore if that were the case. She had a long time to improve her craft after all, even in this somewhat stunted country, yet he sounded like a prodigy, hired by one who gave him somewhat free reigns to reach his potential to its fullest.

"The closest I have been able to replicate in a manner like the power pill you speak off, requires an enchanted idol along with it. A marvelous drink that can give you several minutes of power beyond your limits, yet with a predictable outcome. That is what the idol is for, you see. It harvests the fleeting soul upon the subjects natural death, and stores it whilst the body gets prepared for re-habitation. It requires a highly skilled user in necrotic magic which usually means a lich, or gods be willing, a stitcher, as they can more easily deal with what side effects have occurred in their enchanted state. I have long found this to be an imperfect, yet usable thing to have at hoof, if worst comes to worst, yet hearing of this pill, I feel humbled by the young stallion's skill. It sounds quite a bit more universally useful, than what I know of.

Hmm... I hate to be a bother, but might I ask you to bring him a small olive branch of sorts, from one alchemist to another? A little something which may entice him, and let him know that there is someone who would most certainly like to meet him.

I would need but a few minutes in my garden, if you would allow me the time?"

She looked over to notice that they were close enough to be spotted now, as Rising waved towards them. Something she amusingly replied to with a wave of her own and a smile on her muzzle. Such a fascinating pair these two were, and to think, there were more like them, such as Bash. Oh, she could hardly imagine what sort of other specialists the theatrical Minty had gathered underneath her command.

17 hours ago, Rising Dusk said:

"Resources are important to have.  No swamp or forest isn't without its dangers.  I'd be curious to see what happens to the swamp with the goddess's light now being pumped into it."

"Perhaps more things will stay dead, instead of getting back? We can only hope."

"Later in the evening, we could ask the high priestess. She were around before this age. She must know what to expect."

"...Yeah, I guess you're right. Not now though. I want to hear if Minty and Caramel handled things safely. We don't have need for a bunch of pixies to have gotten past them, and entered town to cause mischief tonight."

Wisp sounded unsure of what Sickle said, regarding Thistle, but she didn't speak up about it. It seemed disrespectful, and Thistle had seemed like she had other things on her mind. She did not need this added to that.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Next."

As they'd get to the front of the line, the stallion who had to deal with them jerked his head to the side as they neared, and with big eyes went over to look closer at Ruby. The young stallion pushed his small spectacles up his snout and just kept on seemingly examining something, whilst mumbling to himself, before Spicy suddenly poked to his noggin.

"Yo, there's a problem or something?"

The stallion snapped out of it and somewhat shaken turned to Spicy, seemingly confused as he briefly addressed her like his superior.

"There's intricate spellwork ma'am. We have to do so-"

"Peh, it's just an enchanted necklace, bucko. You got anything important to note here, or can she get enchanted and get on her way? There's folks waiting."

He seemed squirmish about Spicy's very direct way of talking to him, and looked around, seeing all his superiors hard at work, and not having the nerve to interrupt them.

"...Y-Yes, of course. Sorry."

The enchant would take about a second, and Ruby would feel absolutely nothing, as the quick spell were laid upon her, allowing her sky wandering for the forserable future. Which also allowed them to be on their way shortly after.

"Noisy bugger that one, but clearly lacking the spine to make his own decisions, or deal with confrontation. If this had been a poker game, that right there would've been me, just blasting past him and winning all his bits without him even knowing what were going on. Total doormat."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Well Somepony just wanna be difficult now, don't she? Hehe, let's say then that they're friendly towards you. Better?"

Berry pulled her tongue at Nada, trying to signal that she were joking around about her being difficult. She did make a fair point that calling them friends might be a bit premature in it, but friendly at the very least she'd hold on to, as they had been pretty nice when they had met Nada. At least the times that Berry had seen, but she were sure they didn't just hide it when others were around. They would've just banished or buried Berry too, to make sure there were no witnesses. The Conspiracy would love that.

"And I mean, even if they're just friendly, that means a whole lot. The people follow the princesses, so if they're on your side, there's a bigger chance they are. Well, Celestia anyway. Twilight's still new, and after the whole *Nightmare Moon* debacle, Luna still have some trust to earn back from what I hear. Not that anypony would say it to her face of course. Dumb move."

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

 

@Etched Daydream

"As she should be. Crashing's dangerous. Especially if you go crashing into the ocean. You know what happens to a lad who gets taken by the undertow, and doesn't know what to do? Trust me, you don't wanna figure out the answer.

New recruits needs to run with a partner for safety reasons, but thinking I need to narrow yours to getting you in with another flier. I ain't risking a nice kid like you gets injured without reason, Thunder. Another flier will be able to pull you up and out of danger, if worst comes to worst."

While talking, they had gotten down a less crowded area, which also seemed to be getting progressively more styled up. A few benches, some potted plants, that sorta thing. Small stuff really, until they got to the point where the portraits of the generals both current and past were shown. Small ones about the size of a regular colts head, but lining the walls on both sides of them in the hundreds, with faces after faces ranging from the big and gruff, to scrawny and nervous. There were no common thread to find between them, except for the fact that all but 1 were equine. Third row from the bottom, picture 42, showed a griffon with a real smug smile on his face. Unconventional, but he had gotten the title fair and square, and though he only lasted a year, he got his honor as evenly as the rest.

The picture of Tidal were one of the first they ran into, as the oldest started from the door they were headed towards, and the newest then got pushed here. She had a big ol grin on her face, and blood running down from what looked like a big knife or tooth and struck her forehead, but she didn't care one bit. It had been one prideful moment, and no, she weren't gonna change this. She didn't care if it looked unprofessional, that were her in the moment. That sort couldn't be replicated in her opinion.

[Sphinx-Ara 3,517]

@Blitz Boom

He would follow "I know, don't worry, I don't actually make it a habit to crash into thing, but I was distracted by something..or someone when I crashed into that cliff" he'd say with a bit of a chuckle "Usually its a little critter like a squirrel or sometimes if I'm lucky, a pretty mare" he'd say, trying to make a slight joke at his own expense. "At least I have an ambition and am sticking to it"

[Seamore Sandwich 470]

@Blitz Boom 

 

Continued from page 354

 

“What’s the point of a silly tradition like that?  I came up with my own name, so why shouldn’t he?”  Charlie seemed genuinely confused by this question, not realizing that children aren’t born with the ability to speak.  Language was originally a foreign concept to Charlie, but the way Charlie learned to speak was instantaneous upon accidentally possessing Briar.  The changeling spoke, “I... this body was once called Kilo.  There are many memories here, but none of them are my own. Even the name sounds unfamiliar to me.  I don’t think I’m Kilo, so for now, call me Naut.”  Naut might not have known who he was, but that internal struggle could wait.  Right now he needed a name to make things easier for the others.  “I was told by Princess Luna that ‘what Charlie seeks can be achieved by finding the Heart of the Woods,” and that Zhu knows the way.”  

 

 

Gaea 357

Penny 361

Marcus 362

[EcstaticWind 572]

On 9/21/2019 at 6:42 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Adventurer or not, perhaps you should still make contact to either of them some day. They are delightful creatures, and have a wealth of fascinating stories to tell. But I am not to tell you what to do after all. I merely set the pieces. What you then decide to do with them are up to you."

Briar let out a short laughter and shook his head.

"Dear me, that did not come off in a pleasant way. I do not mean to imply that I see them as pieces to be manipulated with. Hopefully my actual intent shone somewhat through, and I do apologize if that came off as slightly... Menacing, I suppose is the right word."

Behind them, Brittle were long since done making the bed, but she kept at her distance and just observed them quietly from a corner, trying to blend into the shadows as best she could so she wouldn't get the attention. She found it better to just watch, and try to be more comfortable knowing that there are others near her, instead of worried they'd suddenly turn and assault her. Actual walking up to and talking were still some ways off at this point though, without her emotional support next to her.

"*sigh* In any case, you make a fair point. If the adventuring life first gets to you, it is unlikely that you will be able to simply retire from it and feel yourself. The wanderers heart yearns for the road after all, and the path can be as treacherous as it is magnificent.

Perhaps you would indeed do best in staying here, and then see if help cannot reach you instead. It would allow you to focus on your life as it is, without risking losing yourself or your life to the wilderness, yet potentially still reap some benefits that could greatly help you. Please, I am certain that I could ask any of them to travel and find this without it being a bother to you, or being something you need to worry about. Several of them do owe me favors, and I know at least three of them adores Germane, so they would not have to be convinced for long."

 

"Perhaps. I'm sorry I can't commit to adventuring and I hope I haven't been a burden on you with my...fragile nature. Honestly, the future in general scares me, and I doubt it's knowledge that will alleviate that. I'm scared that when I do make a choice, I'll regret it and it will be too late to change it. No one lives forever, and we're never sure how much time we have. I want to make sure I've used my time wisely."

Velvet forced himself to say it, to dig deep and finally put words to his fears of the future, which played a role in adventuring being so daunting a task where others would be more willing to try it. He felt like a fool and a coward now that he said it, but at least he said it.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,427]

@Blitz Boom
Though it wasn't noticeable from outside, Ruby got bit worried when the pony started examining her, and prepared to flee in case something went wrong, but luckily Spicy came to intervene and got the process to progress, though that didn't ease her mind, because even though it may be that the situation was caused by the necklaces, since she didn't know what kind of spells there were in either of them, there was a slight possibility that the pony had something to recognize her transformation magic with, and if he was to share his findings forwards, it could get troublesome.  "I knew this cursed thing would cause trouble at some point." she looked at the necklace combination "Do you happen to know how he could tell there was magic? I didn't see any machines and I haven't met other unicorns that have been able to sense magic as far as I know." she didn't know if this was a weird question, but she hoped it wasn't suspicious.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Nada smiled, she understood Berry was joking around, but she wasn't necessarily wrong, and Nada knew that she was a bit of an pettifogger on some topics. "I know, but unfortunately I'm not quite trusting enough of your kind to believe they will all just start liking me because the princesses say so, I need to see it myself to believe it." "I still try to be positive about it though, and if it's true what....I don't remember who from all of you said about Luna being in the moon for thousand years, I do believe I have some chance since Luna managed to not only settle back in, but return as a ruler."

 

[Sekel 685]

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE & ATZY

"She was running away ... she was happy ... I d-don't know if we should follow though," Atzy admitted, looking further down the tunnel. She did stay where she was though and was staring with incredibly wide eyes. She didn't know what to make of seeing that filly and it shook her enough to act like a leaf caught in the wind.

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"So ... there are others. Other changelings ... wh-who are, um, slaves?" Aurora asked nervously. "Th-They do the labour because Queens are lazy? They just d-do things without question?"

@Blitz Boom & @Widdershins

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

Twilight was unable to move for a good couple of seconds, seemingly frozen as she stared at Cherish retrieving the plant ooze. She was shocked to walking though when Last's voice floated away and she hurried to meet her, deep in thought. She wasn't sure of what to say and looked over her shoulder, noticed it had tilted it's head, and almost felt sorry for leaving it behind. She did quickly look back to her front so she could watch where she was going after a bit.

@Widdershins

DAWN STREAK

"Curl up at my hooves, eh?" Dawn smirked. She could get used to having a dragon around for company. It beat the loneliness she always had. "If you want, you can. I'm not stopping you. Although with your size, I doubt you'd be able to fit into my bedroom."

[EQ_Theta 415]

@Blitz Boom

“Uh… I think we should tone down these deep conversations for a bit.”

“Might want to hold off on giving her some language lessons while we’re at it,” Lin scratched her head. As much as she is still panicky about whenever Omen would suddenly shut down in a conversation, she would have to bear with this for the time being. There’s probably so much unsorted information in Omen’s head that there’s no telling how long this will keep on happening. “Besides, I don’t have any lesson plans in mind. Gonna need some time to sort it out.”

“No use standing around here waiting for something to happen. I’ll get some sleep, see everyone in the morning.”

The two parted with Sen finding a corner to lie down in and doze off. As for Lin, she grabbed a dusty book and sat by the fire, tending to it for a while and dimming the lights. Times like this gave her some comfort, small ones that remind her of quiet nights when she’d leaf through books and learn as much as she could about pony society. What she couldn’t observe in the day, there was at least a reference to it somewhere. 

Downtime like this wouldn’t be much use with talk but Omen would later move on her own, then return to the still and the quiet. The longma did promise to no longer bother the Ki’Nathar for the rest of the evening and so, upon noticing movement, watched and waited before returning to her book. With Shrimp soon finding a spot for himself to rest on her back, Lin decided to gently move the little creature to her side instead, fearing that she’d be moving and shifting around a lot later on.

“How about you rest by my side instead, Shrimp,” the longma whispered. “Wouldn’t want to disturb you later.”

Silent and still the night went on with only the pale moonlight and the sounds of crickets for company. Dull as it may be, it was better with the company of friends and family. Lin carried on with her alone time until the first signs of dawn.

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Serenade is laying on her back floating in the water, forelegs in the air. The other foals are giggling at her 'death'. The foal on her back stands triumphant, The 'Great Booper of Snouts'. Haramony is smiling poolside. 

[Widdershins 9,955]

@Sekel

 "D-don't get any ideas! A good wood floor like this reminds me of my cave's floor" Kaltrop huffs in protest. "I prefer the floor! Not laying at y-your hooves like I'm lesser to you or anything!

  ...and wh-why would I want to spend the night in your personal room? I'm not your pet!!"

[Blitz Boom 4,428]

@Sekel

"If we don't, you will regret it for the rest of your life. Ignorance is not as blissful as you may think."

The sphinx started to walk in the direction that seemed to indicate where the filly in the vision had gone, though slowly, to allow for Atzy to follow before he got far from her. She might not be thrilled about it, but in Enzo's opinion, it were foolish not to pursue this, as otherwise she would constantly be able to look back at this and think *What if I had followed?*. And that sort of regret and uncertainty were not something that should follow you. At least to him, it were better to know.

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

 

@Sekel

"A queen's job is to take care of the hive. She lays the eggs that keeps the hive alive, guides her children and keeps them fed. But it haves downsides. The bigger a hive gets, the more muzzles to feed, and there's never enough, so a strong queen also needs to know when to cull her own eggs, or have to see them grow up starving, and face mind death. I've seen some who faced that... Death is far kinder than that.

Trust me, there's nothing lazy about being a queen. It's a hard battle to keep your hive fed, balanced, and strong against attackers, since our prey's usually the dominant species on this planet. Even though she doesn't work hard labor, I know my queen had to make tough decisions that were far harder than any work we'd ever do. And yeah, that includes things that made her resented, even among our own kind, like making slaves out of our prey. It's not a kind thing, even if she cleared their minds to make them think it were great, but I have never doubted that everything Onache's done, were for the sake of her hive.

Having food close 'n ready, while easing up labor for her off spring, meant we'd be more focused on fighting to be strong, so she wouldn't lose any of us. She thought we'd be safe and never starving like this... *sigh* We should've just told her ages ago...

But, the dice's been thrown, and now that she doesn't have to fear for numbers, safety, or starvation, I know she'll be a better queen. I just hope Thorax ain't gonna be a right twonk about this, and toss her aside for past actions. Outta anyone in his hive, he should know that everyone deserves a second chance.

Don't judge others on what Onache's like either though, y'hear? Each queen decides what sort of ruler they are. Some will stop at nothing for their offspring, others will try and seek a more peaceful existence if they can, and then there's those like Chrysalis, who're only in it for themselves. And trust me, I've met and heard of other hives out there. Whatever you think of my queen, or Chrysalis? There's others out there who'd make them look like saints."

A short shiver went through his body as he recalled one in particular. Cruel tyrant and monster that one were, never caring for anyone but herself, and making sure that they all knew it.

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

 

@Sekel @Widdershins

Last noticed where the princesses and Cherishes eyes went, and grumbled a little under her breath. This thing had tried to eat the princess, and yet they looked at it like some sort of lost puppy... *sigh* Sometimes, she really didn't understand other ponies out here in the so called *normal* world. It were simpler when she just had to hit things.

"We should focus on one thing at a time, your majesty. First the specter, then if you wish, the plant. It's clearly top of the local food chain, so I doubt it will get hurt more until then."

"I feel sorry for the poor thing. It looked like it wanted to want friends, but just doesn't know how to connect to others, or even what it really means."

"And it will still be like that later. Start focusing on both of you now, and it leaves two half finished messes. Keep focus."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I dunno. Some creatures just randomly get the ability to sense something's up, even if they can't tell exactly what the big deal is. Best I figure it'd something on that weird necklace, or something stuck on from the auction, and he's just picking up on residue."

Or Ruby were hiding something from her again, but y'know, her privilege to do so. Just a darn shame she weren't willing to spill the beans since Spicy were sure that something were up that would be mighty interesting. *sigh* Perhaps after a night on the town, Ruby would be more open.

"If the lad grows a pair and starts talking, just tell 'em your necklace got some sorta cloaking spell because of a violent ex. You'd be surprised how often the questions just stops there. If it doesn't and they want details, go tell 'em it were Crank Wrench in Manehattan. He's got a record for this sort of thing, and deserves whatever extra comes his way for it."

It sure made her happy to think about him being in more trouble, that were for sure. But, they had better things to go at. The city awaited, and they'd have to decide where to start. She got a place in mind, but she wanted to see what sorta thing might capture Ruby's eyes. Y'know, besides all the glittery stuff.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"It really helped that Celestia welcomed her, and that the Night Guard had done pretty good on establishing themselves in the time she were exiled. Even though they had given themselves in to Celestia's command, soon as Luna returned, the general went over and kneel before her, with all the rest of 'em in town following troop, showing that they were still loyal to her. I weren't there, but somepony that were told me that the princess cried. I'm guessing since she were worried that nopony had missed her or would show her support beyond Celestia, but I dunno for sure."

It had been a beautiful moment from what she had been told, and she were sure that this had done well in making Luna feel more at home too. Having her guard show that they were not just still an important part of their country's defense, but also remained loyal to her, had to have been an emotional moment for her. Though, what did she know? Only Luna herself probably knew exactly what went through her mind in the moment.

"I figure that's what you need too: Support, and seeing folks giving you a chance. Eventually others are gonna follow. And if they try something, I'll hit 'em with a sack of beans. It's a real threat you know? Those things are Heavy, heh"

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

 

@Moonlit

Getting to the shore, Ziggy jumps out of the pool and starts to parade the filly around on her back, making trumpet sounds and really living into this. It were pretty fun, though through all this, she kinda got distracted from a pretty big question she had been meaning to ask at one point: Where did all these foals come from? Serenade had never said she had a gigantic family, and they looked pretty much at the same age, so it were unlikely that Harmony had given birth to them all. Adopted maybe? Perhaps this were some sorta daycare thing? Guess that were possible too. She'd really have to ask at some point when she wasn't being this distracted by the fun playtime.

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

 

@Etched Daydream

"Alright, so gonna have to try to not partner you up with any lookers. Still thinking it's gotta be somepony who knows how to drag you out of a pickle. Anyway, we're almost there now."

The door to the general's room should be easy enough to spot honestly, as there were the old bones of an immense shark framing the entrance and hallway, and you'd have to walk through the open maw to get in there. The teeth were made to stick in the floorboards for intimidation's sake, though leaving a clear path for ponies to walk through.

However, this were not where they were headed, as she took a right turn before this, and led them down another hallway, then up a flight of stairs, took a left, right, another flight of stairs, but this time downwards, and then twenty meters more before they ended up at the recruitment station. More or less a help desk with a guard sorting through paper after paper to put in his filing system.

"Yo, Bubble. I got you a late sign up."

The pony turned around and looked over at them, a little frizzled it seemed as he had been taken in with keeping his system in check.

"Oh, really? That's unexpected."

He's grab a bundle of papers underneath the desk and flip through them, before handing three towards Thunder, along with a pen.

"Sign up, hazard and liability forms, and standard Coastal Guard insurance. Read through them, and sign at the bottom of each please."

It were some good papers if he read through them really. Why, the Coastal Guard even got free dental and skin grafts. That were nice. Though the second half of that being needed in the first place might be somewhat alarming.

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

 

@EcstaticWind

"In my opinion, I believe that life lived in shelter, away from all the world have to offer, is barely a life worth living. Though, I suppose my upbringing into slavery and subsequent exile is a wildly different one than yours, and that does affect what one considers a good life. To each their own, as they say."

Briar would smile and chuckle a little to himself. Adventuring didn't seem to live in this pony's heart, but if he were contend and happy here, there were not a point in upsetting that either, no? Let him be at peace in this sheltered life, away from the dangers of the world, whilst others went into it. Or as a saying went from the town he grew up in: Everything have its place.

Granted, that were twisted and used as arguments towards why his particular sub-branch of their kind were okay to enslave, but if you ignored that, it were a good saying. Might have once been meant as something kinder, and perhaps, it could one day be again.

"Still, would you like for me to ask if any of them are headed that way, and might be willing to bring back a tome if possible, when they do? It would hardly be a bother."

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

 

@Seamore Sandwich

"You have memories? I hope for your sake then, that it does not include the end of this Kilo's life, nor of the demon who bargained for his corpse, once his days were numbered. I doubt it would be pleasant for a fresh soul to see."

This could be a troubling situation. Usually, the demon which had bargained with Kilo in times past, had cleansed the parts of such things as illness and memories, yet this one still had said memories? It must not have been long since he acquired these then. And all from the same being it seemed... Which likely meant that somepony out there, knew Kilo as he once were. Family, enemies, lovers, it made no difference. There would be somepony who would eventually hear of this, and come looking for him, and something told her that it were not going to end well.

Perhaps she were just getting too paranoid after all these years. At least on some levels, as she only now considered that perhaps her demonic *friend* had kept the memories in all of the bodies he bargained to, so that he had things to sift through when he took over, or in cases like this, leave a sort of calling card. A way for the new inhabitant to know how to get hold of him, and make a deal as well, if the situation required it. The red shadow were a cunning man. She would not put it past him at all.

"Urgh... But very well, if the princess told you this, I will try and help. First we'd need to get to Ponyville. It were where I last saw him, and where the path must begin. We'll have to wander though. I do not have the strength to take you through to the path I mostly wander."

She might not be bashed around or bleeding, but Vivid knew that if she tried to get them through there, there were a chance not all of them got with her, and even if they did, she'd have to leave them there. An inhospitable environment that were surely going to lead to their demise, which were not something she wished upon these two. They had done her nothing to deserve it, and even if they had, she still couldn't. The contract she had with Princess Cadence were very explicit about her limitations, and on purpose. Vivid didn't want to do something she'd regret later in an emotional fit.

So, she'd pick up Charlie and place him in the veil-made fur that lined her neck, which for Charlie, should only feel cold, but hopefully not damaging. If it seemed like it were, she'd hand him over to his accidental offspring to carry.

"...And Naut? What you are, feast on the love of others. We will get you fed in time, but for the sake of your own safety, do not attempt to actively harvest from any being you see without warning. They do not take kindly to that.

Hopefully you will turn out to be one of those whom I have heard can feast on latent love in the air, without taking it directly. It will make this easier."

With that, she would start to stagger towards the exit. Not quickly, but she'd stay on her own legs at least, as they'd make their way towards one of likely many stops on their path to find Zhu.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

Shrimp usually went for higher up resting place like the heads of others, because there were safety in being above the ground, but he wouldn't be a bother as Lin moved the sleeping refraction to another position, and would sleep all the same. Curled up and slightly clinging on to Lin, as his dreams took him to fantasies about him being tall and mighty, towering above his caretakers and with a mighty roar that made the ground tremble, would rush towards a herd of smaller, yet still giant, monstrous felines.

Fighting those would be a nice dream for him going through the night, as it went along in silence.

As dawn came, and the first rays of light broke into the cave, one in particular were aimed just at the refraction's closed eye, who let out a small hiss, and snapped towards the light source, trying to make it go away. Which didn't happen, so in the end, he had to wake up.

He'd let out a grumpy hiss while uncurling himself, and shaking the sleep out of his serpentine body.

Omen would still be outside, now glaring into the rising sun, so unmoving that several insects and birds were crawling or sitting on her, and you could see the morning dew sit mostly undisturbed in her fur, unless one of said critters caused them to move, by for example trying to drink from them, or walk through them. She wouldn't move unless addressed, but her mind were clear enough to react now, and have some space to spare. These hours had done her good.

As for Rosa, he would have started to gain a pained expression about fifteen minutes before this, and rapidly started to twitch as the light came inside. With an audible gasp, his eyes went wide, and he rose from the floor, taking several deep breathes whilst his panicked heart slowed down. It seemed as if the nightmares had not left him entirely alone after all.

"Damnable hands..."

A small shiver went through him, and he briefly raised a hoof towards his throat again. Hopefully the night had been kinder to the others.

[Sphinx-Ara 3,517]

@Blitz Boom

Thunder smiles and nods "Well then I probably shouldn't be under your charge or the sergeant's charge, because damn, you two are very good looking in my books" he'd say with a laugh, though he wasn't completely joking. 

He'd then see the pony who would have the papers, be given the papers and look through them, "Hmm, all seems pretty good" he would say, "Least I'm not signing my soul away" he'd smile and sign the papers.

[EQ_Theta 415]

@Blitz Boom

Morning had arrived, but Lin didn't seem to notice until Shrimp started squirming about. For the most part, her attention as mostly on her book, only ever looking away to see if anything is approaching the cave. Fortunately, nothing of the sort came to be.

"Good morning, Shrimp. Looked like you slept well!"

The morning sun’s ray shone into Sen’s eyes, disturbing him from his slumber. Though it was peaceful at first, there were moments when he would twitch. Sporadically at first with a grunt or two but more so when the first signs of the day arrived. Eventually, he would be jolted awake, gasping for air, the sound alone drawing Lin’s attention to him.

“Nightmare?”

Sen silently nodded, looking around to see his surroundings hadn’t changed from the night before. “Bad memories from years ago creeping up again. Don’t worry about it; this was not as bad as the nightmares I used to have.”

Lin wasn’t convinced but relented further prodding and approached Rosa. That gesture of him raising a hoof on his throat got her thinking his nightmares involved thirst and so brought some water for him. If not to drink, then at least to freshen up for the day ahead. Now it just so happened that as for today, Lin had no idea what to do. Someone had to stay and look after Shrimp as the diamond chunk needed to be purified some more. But more on that later, as it appeared Rosa could use a little help and maybe Omen needed a little more time alone before coming to on her own.

“Didn’t sleep well, Rosa?” Lin asked, offering some water to the bat pony. “Anything I can help with?”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,427]

@Blitz Boom
"Or I could tell the truth." Ruby pointed out "It's a cursed necklace with another necklace on top of it that is enchanted to hide it so that the cursed one doesn't cause problems." "I'm sure that a dragon attacking me for a necklace isn't what they want happening here." she wasn't sure if Spicy had noticed what Ruby had gotten from the zebra, but she didn't see why it should be a secret if not. She was looking around, but nothing besides all the bits on the creatures moving near them didn't really capture her attention.

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

Nada just smiled, not really having anything to say, besides maybe thanking Berry again, but she decided against it since there had been quite a lot of thanking already. She was thoughtful for a moment before letting out an amused exhale "I thought about what you said and realized something, we are quite the bunch aren't we, I mean, there's two sirens, one mimic thing, some kind of nature-creature, a ghost, and then you, a pony who is seen by other ponies as crazy." she scratched her chin "I do hope I'm not forgetting someone, I'd feel quite awful about it if I am." 

 

[Moonlit 593]

@Blitz Boom Harmony starts nudging the foals to deck chairs, so they can dry their manes. Serenade flops out onto the pool side, her siren form taking up most of one side. She rolls onto her back letting the sun warm her belly....the foal, 'Captain' whispers into Ziggy's ear, "The dread Siren is ripe for another attack...Her treasure of cuddles awaits."

[Rising Dusk 26,083]

@Blitz Boom

How grizzly to even think about for an Equestria pony.  A drink that removes a pony's limits but with the expected outcome of death?  Then to have one's soul collected into an idol to be brought back later.  Sounds like a story straight out of a horror book.  Not that the mare was one to enjoy such a genre of book.  She much preferred a saucy romance or deep noir mystery of Shadow Spade.  The aforementioned outcome were of course possible with Bash's Power Pill, yet they were only available to O.M.I. agents under extreme circumstances.  Even so, their resident alchemist was in constant effort to improve the pill and reduce the side effects.  Last she heard, something to do with Phoenix feathers or some such thing.  Minty wasn't Rising Dusk with his steel trap mind, she still needed to take notes to remember things.  Well, rely on Tussle to take notes to remember it for her. 

Oh?  An olive branch between two alchemists?  In attempt to entice him?  Caramel's words were most delightful.  "Am I to deliver a love letter to my dear Bash from an unknown land?  Oh how tales of his adventures have sparked the furnace of a fair maiden alchemist worlds apart," the larger mare cooed out in dramatic fashion.  Putting the back of her hoof to her forehead like an avid reading reaching a romantic position of a story.  "Yes, darling, I shall deliver such a gift," Minty affirmed with a teasing smile.

Finally rejoining the ponies left behind after they left for their adventure.  "Welcome back," the detective greeted the pair.  "Any trouble?" he inquired, observant enough to see neither had a spec of dirt on their attire.  Actually Caramel appeared to no longer have the little traces left behind by her cooking from early, likely having suffered one of Minty's cleaning spells.  Minty had cast her magic at the table to pour herself a mug of water and drink the lovely cool refreshment.  "Nothing to fear darling.  Only some ghastly zombies dispatched skillfully by the dear town guard here.  And a most unappreciative audience that didn't even gift us with a single flower or jewel.  They simply watched and floated away.  It was most rude," the older mare huffed in annoyance, already having forgotten what they were called.  

"Took ya'll awhile to get back for just some zombies," Rising pointed out.  "Hmph!  Can a couple of ladies not enjoy a post-battle conversation on a slow walk back?" Minty responded with puffed cheeks, but Rising was already smiling, he was teasing her.  She fell for that one, but simply took a drink from her mug.  Minty could have easily teleported the pair back to town at any time after the battle, but decided to talk with the pegasus instead.  Actually it was rare that he companion talked more than she did, but it was all praise so it was hard not to just listen.