open Casual stroll

EQ_Theta · June 10, 2020

Spirits? Ten individuals? The more Sen thought about that, the more it sounded like they would need to keep their eyes out despite Tomb’s reassurances. Or Tomb would need some rest. He wasn’t one to judge but something told the longma to take the pony’s word at face value.

“Uh, are you alright? Are your... eyes working fine? I don’t mean to sound insensitive but either there really are spirits wandering around here or you might be seeing things.”

It’s alright, Shrimp. Tomb is friendly. Lin backed away a little to cuddle the refraction and reassure him the pony meant no harm. “Don’t take this the wrong way, Tomb. Shrimp needs time with anyone he ins’t familiar with before he’s comfortable with them.”

Sen could recall those early days getting Shrimp to warm up to him. Trying times but they were quite fun after a while, almost becoming part of a daily routine getting the refraction to recognize his scent. Going by his intelligence, however, Shrimp could get used to letting his guard down and not always go by scent. That would be somewhat difficult, striking a balance between instinct and social convention but the siblings could give it a shot. Language lessons with Omen and Shrimp, then they could try adding more subjects.

“So, uh... is there anything you recommend us doing first once the place is up and running? What’s the most popular thing visitors do when they come to the carnival?”

FanOfManyShows · June 11, 2020

@Blitz Boom

"Oh she is using that thing as much as her body can, and she's a unicorn so she's not even using it right."
Chariot chuckled a bit as he looked around, his irises glowed as he sensed the surroundings.
"Current ones in play are Lies, Betrayal, and Depression, none of the original bearers should have their elements right now fortunately so there shouldn't be any others,
assuming they did good work when they first hid them."

"We haven't done any research on that one, we didn't even know about it or the effects it's having."
Misty said, being the only one out of Astral and Chow as Astral teleported away to take the pony to a hospital as she was asked.

Chariot rolled his eyes. "Well the last bearer of it went insane after using it."

"Don't they all?"

"More than the others. Worst still it left such a imprint on his aura so he can still use it's magic,
but maybe that went away since I was turned to stone originally."
He was honest, as there was no history on the original bearers since Sapphire imprisoned, they were a myth much like Warlock was.
"Makes me impressed that you know about them Emerald, since so little was written."

"Anyway, how about that ritual right?"
Iron hadn't been very impatient much so far, but since it seemed they were so close and had everything, he sounded more so than usual.

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

Opal's horn glowed as she was about to teleport, or maybe fight back
But before she could, a loud snap was heard, as Opal was taken away in a puff of magic.

If Shade were to investigate the sound of the snap, he'd see a dragon with black scales and green eyes, who then teleported away.
Depending on how much of a history buff he was, he may recognize this previous user of the element of Lies; Skall.

=================================
"Who are you?!" She'd spin around, sensing him near as she heard pacing, back at the sister's old castle.

"It is I, Skall! We should be far enough for Shade to not find us too quickly."
He leaned forward, his neck seeming to stretch towards.
"I find you to ask for a favor...."
He grins in anticipation, as she looks ather disturbed at him.

"What is it?"

"Do it camly or we fight, but either way, give me that element."
Reaching his hand out, the element would certainly feel a more intense connection with Skall than it would with Opal,
as if an old friend had returned to save it.

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"Okay! Well... Since I said I'd leave if it got hot, I'll be heading back."
He said, looking nervously at Shade, despite how Shade reacted before, he was still expecting resistance here.
Whether or not it was a valid fear would depend on Shade.

Blitz Boom · June 11, 2020

@FanOfManyShows

"I guess this means that Hatred is still kept safely locked up in Canterlot then, after they took it from you? Good. One less mass scale problem then.

As for the first, there weren't written many facts about them, but there were rumors, myths, and other such things. I used the history of the other wearers to sift through the worst of it to find some slim line of truth to what I scrounged up. Turns out that when you grow up debilitated and bedridden, you have a lot of time to read."

This comment was a minor stab that only Sapphire would likely get, unless she had started to spread stories about her crippled sister, and her desperate journey to not meet the untimely end that had been guaranteed for her since birth. Didn't mean it still didn't feel right to say.

"I assumed that the spirits within the elements might have been them, but if they're still alive... Perhaps the hypothesis is true then. Or well, ramblings of a mad old bat I suppose."

Using a small bit of magic effortlessly, she made an old notebook that looked pretty ragged, appear floating above her hoof. It were so much more delightful to use magic in this vessel, since it weren't as limiting as most others she had. *sigh* A shame she couldn't keep him, though she would prefer to be a female again. A stallion's body weren't ideal for her personally.

Regardless, she'd flip open the book, and turn it to show them a page of hastily written text, seemingly done with charcoal sticks, going all over the place. As if written down in panic, by someone losing their mind.

"Some words in here about the elements. Most of it gibberish, but if you sift through the fluff, you can see that the writer thought that the spirits weren't there before the original wearers, but manifested within because of their efforts and power. A fraction of their own strength, manifested in these things who seeks to destroy anyone else who tries to use the elements recklessly. Egging them on even, to try and make it impossible for the first to miss that they were out there, calling for them.

It's barely an idea, but it's one of the few sources I've found to work with, so take it for what it is.

And no, I am not starting the ritual for another 54 minutes. If the mixture is not allowed to settle in, Sapphire will be given life again, and you can go enjoy your little family life- For about fifteen seconds before she starts to peel like an union. This is getting done right, or not at all. Weapon yourself with patience for once."

Main issue with this family really were their impatience... Everything just had to happen constantly, and right away. You'd thing witches - who generally had to read and study tomes - would be able to take their time with things.

Also, at the hospital, there'd be no resistance. Word hadn't spread, and though it were earlier than expected, the staff took in the unconscious mare all the same, giving hastily thanks, before going on with their duties again.

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@FanOfManyShows

Opal managed to get away, just before the shades got hold of her. What a pity... So were it that the mages seemed to be just illusions, and had little effect. Soon as she were gone, so were they, and the metal keeping hold of folks.

Shade did not respond to things, nor ease up yet though. A whispering, slithering voice came from deep within the shadows around them as he stomped his hoof into the ground. On impact, were for a brief second, a faint imprint of a white rune, though as it fainted away, a larger spectacle would be seen from the shades shifting gears and jumping right back into the ponies they had come from. And as they did, each and every one of them would let out a deep gasp and have eyes almost popping out of their heads, as if they had been on the brink, and gotten shocked back to life.

Once they had all returned, leaving only the five out of six shades that he had to begin with in his squad, the white lines would retract from Shade's body, and once again be contained only to his visible eye. An eye which landed on the general as he started to speak, and Shade stepped closer.

"A word of advice, general: Focus on that dragon, forget what else you've seen, and don't think you can use it against me. You have no evidence, and you can't hide from me. Nopony can."

With that, Shade disappeared, mere hooves from Iron, who'd find himself surrounded by some pretty confused ponies, whilst the fire fighters kept on trying to control the fire. An effort they were winning, yet it would still take time. The reinforcements should hopefully be here soon though.

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@FanOfManyShows

"Give it to him. He is worthy. Powerful. Your grasp weakens, but his only strengthens. Be his follower. Bask in his radiance."

The voice had gotten stronger, being this near to the one who meant so dearly to it. The one and only wearer of the element, who were worthy to claim its power properly, and it yearned to return to his mighty grasp. and now finally, after all the failed weaklings who had tried to harness the element, and fallen prey to its games, one of them had finally proven competent enough to be found. Of the unworthy, Opal were a tolerable host for that, if nothing else.

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@EQ_Theta

"Perhaps I'm wrong. Haven't had much sleep lately, so perhaps I just see their residue. I still see the distinct energy from five, powerful souls clinging to you though.

You won't find anypony here judging you for wandering with spirits if it is. They walk among us, especially on this festive day."

The lantern around her nexk suddenly lit up to the side, and in its pale light, they'd be able to see a few spirits floating by, taking in the sights and speaking unheard words between them at all they were seeing. It were almost as if seeing regular ponies just having a stroll, were it not for the old timey clothes and the aforementioned floating.

The two of them would turn, and rise their grey hooves up to give a wave towards the group, before wandering on again. There were more to be seen of other spirits getting near, but the lantern's light snuffed out again before it got further than that.

"See? You are not the first to arrive. Some have been here for a long time. Heh... Heh..."

"I see. How... Informative."

"Spirits does not smell."

Omen had tried to get a sense of smell from those she had seen, but there were just nothing, and her assessment managed to get another, drawn out laugh of Tomb.

"You're a funny mare... What's your name?"

"I am Omen."

"I have a distant cousin with that name. Funny how that goes.

Anyway, you two asked about where to go, yes? The biggest attractions tends to be the arcade corner, and Cave of Inferiority. It's a nicer place than it sounds, and a local treat for tourists.

The seats at the Solemn Haven Theatre is going to have a good treat a few times during the night too, which is worth getting to early. Queen Cheshire and her hive is coming around for a couple of shows, and they're good at keeping others captivated. Not a whole lot goes all the way to Las Pegasus around here, so it's good they're eager to come here every so often, during these nights.

It might be good for you to try a trip around town too, once things are set up, and you can get a better overview of things. The Banshee's Wail can get you on a nice, sight seeing trip through the whole thing, free of charge. She's paid by the tourists board to provide for the tourists during these days, to make sure folks gets to see as much as they can.

And don't worry about your pet. Animals have strong senses, and death makes a lot of them nervous, or scared. I'm just *blessed* by them thinking the worst about me it seems."

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@Windy Breeze

(before they saw the ghosts)

Man, this spirit were not messing around, that was for sure. They had barely gotten down the main street, and already they had made sure to be both heard and noticed twice already, via the door, glass, and voice whispering on the wind? That was a bit unusual, but of course not unheard of. No wonder the locals had taken off in drones though, when the poltergeist were this outspoken. No way one could ignore this, and something told her that those who had tried, weren't getting an easier time because of it. Frankly, it were probably the opposite. Nopony liked being ignored.

The house they passed were not encouraging either. It were extremely unlikely that the spirit had pyrokinesis, but there were a slim chance that this were caused by that. Or the stove had been turned on, and towels throw on top of the counter top to really get the fire started. Stuff like that were not unusual, though if a fire had been started intentionally, rather than accidentally, it spoke about the spirit of Autumn. And not in a good way. Malice and thoughtfulness were not a kind combination, for ghost or the living.

(after the ghosts had appeared)

She had known right away that these were spirits. The sort of aura that came from that kinda creature, were impossible to think belonged to a living creature. At least in her family. They learned early on to distinguish, and accept their role in the great circle of life and unlife. Also these two were really not hiding it. You'd probably have to be blind, or ignorant, to think that they weren't spirits.

In fact, it appeared to be The spirits. A griffon male and pony female? Seemingly a couple? Sounded like what they were looking for, yes?

She had started to take some steps forth towards them as Quill began talking, but Legion's voices screamed at her to halt before she got far. Why she hadn't guessed at first, but then... The spirits addressed them directly, and Sorrow's face turned pale.

"...We're so boned..."

Spirits were her specialty, but there were a few, golden rules that were wise to take into account, for one at her power level. Two of them being to run off and find somepony better if she ran into demon possessions, or malicious, codependent spirits. Why? Because she were nowhere near powerful enough to subdue them, and malicious entities like this rarely just gave in to things. They could actually do some real damage on her, and that were why she tended to stay away from areas where that might be an issue.

Yet now she were in one, and considering the fog, and what these two had just said, she had the suspicion that there were an unnerving truth that they all had to face. Beyond them being in big trouble.

"I... I don't think they're gonna let us leave.

This is so far above my pay grade. We must uhm... I dunno, they mentioned a filly? Somepony called Marshmallow Sunrise? Maybe if we find her, we can do something. I think she might be the one to actually be whispering on the wind. These two doesn't seem like they're lost like that. And uhm... That actually makes them a whole lot more dangerous."

Sorrow were sounding a whole lot more nervous and actually scared now, than she had so far. She really should have known better when it came to this town. Most haunted graveyard in all of Equestria, and now this? If she made it out of this alive, she had to tell grandmother that this town were a high risk zone, and that they needed to get their best out there to fine-comb the place every so often, to avoid these sorta things. Bit of a tall order if they didn't make it out of here alive though, which seemed like it was a possibility at this point.

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@Rising Dusk

"So, considering the diplomatic aspect of things, and this grooming you're talking about, Harrowmark should primarily focus on building a good bond with this Princess Twilight then? Yet also address Princess Celestia as the current, de facto ruler? Seems understandable enough, though your titles are strange. I suppose it's an Equestrian or alicorn thing though. I wouldn't know. I know barely anything of your lands, and alicorns does not exist in Harrowmark. Far as I know, they never have, but it's hard to tell with ancient history. It's never as complete as you'd want it to be.

To return to your royals, I am to understand that Princess Luna is to be treated respectfully, even though her sister have the final say in things then, and Princess Cadance can largely be ignored, at least for the time being?

It sounds somewhat akin to what system we have in Harrowmark. Queen Magenta the Second is our primary ruler, with her husband, Prince Hayworth, making up somewhat of a secondary ruler.

Crown Prince Necrotic is the one primed for the throne, once our queen cannot handle it any longer, and we have some relatives of theirs ruling over small areas as much as they were allowed, which sounds akin to Princess Cadance. I would perhaps advice your princess to go into talks with the crown prince if it were. Our queen doesn't seem to be at bad health, but she might see this as a new age, which needs a younger spirit at the reigns. I have only seen her in scrys, and the few mock tours she were forced to take by Twisted, so I couldn't say for sure.

What little I do know, is that your princess should steel herself with patience. Queen Magenta is coming up in years, and judging by the amount of times she were made to parade, and the snide comments from Twisted, I can only assume that the authoritarian aura I've seen roll off her does not mean that age have dulled her edge. It honestly seems as if she have only gotten more sharp, as if preparing to take a stand before her lifetime were over, which is a degree of spine that we have not had in our royal family for a long time. I would be wary of treating her like a simple old mare, if I were her."

Not to mention that glare... Even when made to do her tour by Twisted, to try and humiliate her, she radiated an aura of just being someone naturally in charge of things. And then when someone did at times think it were wise to smirk, or do anything else than respect her authority, she stared them down. Twice had she seen it in her lifetime, and both times were the one their queen had focused on, ended up covering before her silent gaze, and whimpering. Twisted really hated that about the old queen. Ones before her had been so easy to break, yet she were a different story. Quite honestly, Lily felt rather certain that the only reason she had been allowed to live for this long, were that Twisted sincerely wanted to see how long she'd last before he found a way to crack her shell.

"If I may give an example: In recent years, Twisted had been considering killing her husband, and making him into a mindless ghoul that'd follow her around. Yet when he tried this around six years ago with her youngest son, he had ended up dismayed that she went straight over to grab the royal scepter, and beat the monstrosity until it weren't able to move anymore. And then she had set fire to it. Without a shadow of remorse or hesitation.

It were one of the times that I've seen Twisted actually look beaten. He hadn't thought she'd be able to look at what her youngest had become, and had it in her to release him.

This is the kind of pony you will be dealing with. I would be cautious of treating her with anything not resembling respect.

As for your lack of gods, it perplexes me how your country can be strong without them, but I assume your alicorn magic have something to do with how a balance is made, and it seems... Quaint out there. Dealing with gods are not perfect, but I can at least attest that personally, I don't know how I'd make it in the long run, had I not something higher to believe in. This might just be one of the things were out cultures will clash some, but I can imagine that it won't be that big of a deal in the long run. Long as there is no shrine desecration. I wouldn't like to think of what the high priestess would do to someone who made a mockery out of her temples."

She barely finished before they got to a large, grandiose door, which already reeked quite a bit of being high class. Not the worst she supposed. it beat a collapsing cage any day, though luxury felt weird even to think about.

Which she didn't have much time to do either, before Dawn with a a few, disapproving words, started to switch doors. Something which captivated Lily more than what the varied doors might actually look like, and made her question if these were all potential gateways. If so, Dawn surely must be powerful to just switch through them via such simplistic methods. Their portal mages in Harrowmark were good, but this? They'd literally throw anything in their vast library at Dawn, just for her to give them some notes on how to do this. She'd have a lot of leeway with them, if Lily were correct.

On 6/10/2020 at 1:01 PM, Rising Dusk said:

Pushing on the door opened into the interior of a cozy log cabin. Furred rug before a firm sofa in front of a roaring fire place. A simple caved table with a single matching chair. A small rustic kitchen with a window looking out over the backyard of the mansion and stocked icebox. Plenty for simple living. Against the back wall, a room leading to a restroom. Next to the fire place, a small room with a rustic bed. "Will this suffice?"

Lily wandered in, surprised at what she were seeing. A nice, old school, rustic place. Not as old school as where she came from mind you, but when you didn't have proper building materials, anything looking whole were basically out of your league. This certainly looked like something that home could be one day though. Once they got to building again.

She'd spent a bit of time looking around, taking it all in, before turning to Dawn with a surprised, look and a pleased smile on her face.

"This is far more than I had expected, but it's nice and homely. Thank you for catering to an ol- I mean, to me, Dawn.

Though, what were the trick that you did before? Did every door represent a portal to another room in your house? Our portal mages would be highly interested in this sort of magic if it were."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"I just assumed you went through all that to come here, steal things and train, then go back with a proper hoard set up once you had gotten your revenge, and your slice of land back."

There seemed to be some tension going over Ruby, which stopped Leviathan from asking in more what were going on. She had her ideas, and theories of course, but none of them were good, and poking at this might just make Ruby lash out. Considering they finally seemed to be getting somewhat along, she were hesitant to risk throwing that away this easily.

"I'd ask more, but if you don't want to talk about it, I'm not gonna push it. You have the right to some privacy, and if it's still a major sore spot, I don't see any good coming from me prodding at it with a stick. But if you ever wanna share, I'll listen, and not share a thing with others. Not even your pet bird.

I'm curious about the future though. Say you come back, get your revenge, and your own place back. Then what? Are you just gonna repeat how it's always been, or are you striving for something more lofty? You have knowledge of the outside world now after all. Maybe you could use that to your advantage, and claim a higher position in the food chain there. Maybe even the top, given enough time and a little scheming."

Never hurt to have plans for the future, and as they were dragons, they could last for a long time. She personally had aspirations about being able to make ball lightning, which were a really tough sort of magic to sort out right, but she were making progress. Another... 600 years or so of casually getting more refined and stronger, would likely do wonders. Maybe shorter if she actually focused on it.

Probably wouldn't be long now before Ruby were ready to get a move on again she'd wager. A long rest more, and it might be there, considering her healing progress so far. Just good that her branch also had the increased healing abilities of their kind as a whole, and weren't slow say, the ponies. It would've taken months then.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"I don't think she thinks she's a dragon. It's kinda more like a nurture thing, I think? I've seen her jump around with Angel bunny, so she can't think she's a dragon, or she would've tried eating him. I just kinda think that maybe she's marred by a far tougher life where you had to prove yourself, so she's got the pride and violent tendencies of a dragon. And the kick of a deer. Seriously, surprisingly strong paws, hehe."

Most would probably not be this happy about being beaten up by a glorified rodent, but Ziggy were a bit weird. The glass-less frames tended to be a solid clue, but there were more warning signs if you didn't catch that one, like her general attitude, love of tackle hugs, and general glee over anything small and cute. Quite a few actually tended to look at her in disbelief once they saw her medical licence, as a good chunk thought all doctors were serious all of the time.

"It's kinda sad we cant go check up on your dryad friend. But that's okay. Now I know there's one, so I'll just wait until she's comfy coming into town and talk,and then it's huggletime! Hehe. Honestly thought they were just myths, by creatures who had see evergrown and gotten confused. Really funny that they're actually real. It's like finding a special treasure. But I have patience, no worries.

You sure you don't want me to check up on Nerzhei though? If she was in a fight, her arm might've gotten worse, and a biopsy's messy stuff. Her head might not feel right currently."

Ziggy were a weird one, but a doctor primarily, and as such, wanted to try and help others. Even irate dragons. A patient were a patient after all.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"A fair assessment I suppo-"

"Eeeeek!?"

Somewhere not too far off, a high pitched, equine screech were heard, giving off a scared and surprised yelp into the forest. It might be nothing though. Could just be they had fallen over a tree stump, or stepped into a lake and were a bit fidgety.

"Grwoark!!"

Or something quite a bit larger were running into or after said pony, causing distress. From the sound of the gurgling, resonating tone, it were something big indeed, though with a tone that Lyriel did not understand. She doubted this were a regular sort of beast already. Maybe another of the forest's legends?

If they followed the sound, they'd find a mare in full survival gear, back turned against a large rock, and looking on in horror, as a large, frog-like creature came waddling towards her, with goo spilling from it's half-open maw. A maw filled with sharp teeth it looked like, ready to chomp down on some hapless prey. Such as say, a pony who had gotten too close to the large area near the swamp this thing were starting to call its home.

The lean creature would slam it's knucked into the ground,a nd with it's face turned towards the pony, open up to glob a large ball of goo at said pony. She managed to dodge it, yet sadly not the tongue that came right afterwards, and slung around her ankle. The monster seemed well satisfied with catching her already, judging from its hideous, scaled face, and began to drag the pony slowly back to it's open maw, which should just about fit a pony in it. Said mare were not having it, and did hers to claw at the ground with one hoof, whilst fumbling for a knife in her belt with the other. She might need help if she were to get out of this alive.

They should beware though. The frog-like creature seemed to have growth covering parts of its bumpy back, and judging by the pulsating motions, something were stirring within. It might not be wise to hit those things.

Windy Breeze · June 11, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Actually, Marshmallow was found 2 days after Autumn's passing” Quill told her, who was now walking close to Windy's flank “There was a series of foalnapping in this area before, then, all the foals returned, no injuries, no signs of abuse, nothing to indicate that they were abused”

“Atleast the foals are fine” Windy told her.

Quill saw a sign on a small intersection road infront of them, the background behind is so foggy they couldn't see the houses on the other side “We are about to enter Syrup St” she told them, ignoring the words written on the road which says 'You will pay' Windy decided to avoid stepping on it lest she would trigger something she doesn't want to know.

Entering Syrup St, they saw which was not seen from Maple St.

Windows of all houses are gone, even all of the front doors are wide open, miscallaneous things are scattered on the streets, a flower shop was not spared either as its flowers are spilled from their vases like water going out of an overturned bucket.

As they about to pass the said flower shop, they heard the voices again.

“This is worst!”

Three figures appeared in the fog. The trio could recognize the gryphon and his wife, but standing infront of them is an earth pony, probably the clerk.

“I know!” the figure of the clerk said “My colt was just there, playing, then i just turned around and his gone!”

“This foalnapping are getting too far now” the gryphon said in a calm solemn voice “Did the guards identify who are responsible for this?”

“No” the clerk said in melancholy “It's my fault that my little colt is-”

“It isn't your fault, Pots” the gryphon approached her while his wife stood behind them watching “I promise when I got promoted as a guard, I will find who's responsible for taking your kid and I will bring him back to you”

“T-Thank you, Razor” Pots said.

The gryphon's wife came forward “And as to show sympathy, I will be buying one of your most expensive flowers”

“T-T-Thank you, Autumn”

Autumn smiled “My mother once told me it is right to show kindness to others” her eyes moved to look at Windy, Quill, and Sorrow “to trick others and to make sure they would not be caught for their crimes” her smile became crooked. Razor and Pots's figure vanished but Autumn stayed as she turn around and calmly walk towards the trio “My love” she started “You'll pay for your sins” tears began to come out of her eyes as she said those “You will regret what you did to me”

Windy tensed, Quill couldn't take it and fainted.

EQ_Theta · June 12, 2020

@Blitz Boom

The question on spirits still bounces back and forth within Sen’s head but it is rather strange how these actually supported by evidence. With a lantern lit to show proof of the existence of spirits, maybe there was a chance that his parents would also manifest themselves in a similar manner. That one was a little too much to ask but it was more comforting to know that mother and father could be a little closer than expected.

Even Lin, who would be more skeptical of the nature of spirits, was kept at ease with similar thoughts. No way would she say her concerns outright but Rosa may remember the incident in the swamp and how their family history is a sore topic. As illogical as it sounded, the idea that someone could still linger long after they passed is more comforting than expected. Deep down, the siblings hoped that it it might also be a good thought to remember for Rosa, that his father may linger on and that if he ever wanted to speak to him, the thestral would only say the word.

Of course, there’s probably no way the siblings would actually try to communicate with the spirits. That is a seance waiting to spiral out into necromancy. But, their thoughts would return to reality instead of lingering on in their heads.

“Huh, well… that’s not something we see everyday.” Sen bowed to the spirits that greeted them and let them be on their way.

“Seems like we’ve got a few options now. Shows, the cave, maybe we could visit the arcade… But, I suppose making ourselves familiar with the place is a good suggestion. Sound good, everyone?”

A question directed at both Rosa and Omen, though Sen was just about ready to ask for location of the Banshee’s Wail. Interesting as far as names go. He wasn’t quite sure how screaming works for navigation but that’s the name given and he’d have to roll with it.

Catpone Cerberus · June 13, 2020

@Blitz Boom
"That isn't false necessarily, but I could do that in my homelands too if it was just a one attack." Ruby stated "And I wouldn't bring it up if I wasn't going to tell anything about it, what would be the point?" "It's also true that some details are...best to keep to myself, but I figured that since we are going to tolerate each other for some time, it would be good for you to know a bit why I think like I do."

"My territory was quite deep into the lands, so when I was forced to retreat, I ended up in territory of other dragon, then another and so on, I lost count on how many fights I took part in, some went better than others, but even injured I got some victories...until I didn't." "You realize lot of things when you think you're going to die, and honestly, I still wonder how I didn't." "I don't know how long it lasted, day, two, maybe a week, time works differently when you are staring death in the eyes, but I was unable to move, at all, I wouldn't have been able to eat even if prey walked directly in my mouth."

"So there I was, starving, in pain, at the bottom of a hole, and the occupant of the territory found me....if you think killing is the worst thing you can do to a dragon, you are greatly mistaken..." it was clear that this was one of the details Leviathan wouldn't get more information of and would most likely get slashed if she tried "....should just have killed me when I couldn't move, it was the longest and the most painful death I have ever made someone to go through."

She was quiet for a moment, seemingly trying to calm herself down a bit before continuing "After I had healed enough to deal with the....problem, I started exploring the hole as I was still stuck down there, it was a ravine connected to a quite large cave system, there was no way out, but I found a cave filled with literature of different kinds, and not having anything better to do, I taught myself to read, first my native language then this language, that's how I learned about Equestria and my kind's magic."

"And for my future, you're not far off, my plan is indeed to become the top of my kind."

Though Ruby tried to keep the usual act up, it was obvious that this was something she had wanted to share with someone but hadn't been able to, it seemed that behind her unpleasant and tough outside was history of struggle and trauma.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I don't think there's need, the dryad has taken care of her before and I'm sure she will again, she's the type that takes care of others before taking care of herself." Nada stated "And honestly I don't want to go back to the forest right now, I don't want to make the timberwolf angry again, more creatures could get hurt." "I'll wait a day or two so that the dryad can talk with the overgrown predator."

--------------------------------------------------------
Scarecrow started moving quickly, moving effortlessly in the challenging terrain, and though he got scratched by thorns and such now and then, he didn't seem to even notice it. He observed the situation for a second when they got close enough to see what was going on, wanting to make sure he really was needed considering the equipment on the pony. After deciding that he indeed was needed, Scarecrow calmly walked from his observation spot and attacked the tongue, if he didn't manage to get the creature to let go of the pony, he would use his magic to help the pony to get the knife in time.

If the frog-creature attacked Scarecrow, he would stand his ground, if he got crushed, he would get back up, if he got thrown away, he'd simply come back, if he got covered in goo, he would dig himself out, even if it would take time, if it would grab him with the tongue, if Scarecrow's indescribably awful taste wouldn't make it let go, he would do as much damage as he could using his magic, horn and the various sharp bones sticking out.

Sekel · June 13, 2020

@Blitz Boom

ATZY & KARMIC FATE

"Then is it possible to explain this to us, Enzo?" Atzy wondered, trying to get away from the train of thought she had in potentially revealing herself.

"Did you hear anything about a breakout sometime ago?" Karmic asked, leaning over to the Ambassador. "Something to do with a cloaked pony?"

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

Twilight swallowed and nodded. After she had given Cherish's stick to Last, she went off to the left and began climbing up the spiral staircase. It was falling in places and was a bit too tight for her to spread her wings far enough to get decent lift. She avoided looking out through the gaps in the barricades and kept focus on every step she was taking. It was hard, and slow, and half an hour had passed when she finally arrived at the rooftop. She looked out at the battlefield to orient herself and her face went white. She couldn't help it. She was frozen and everything about the battlefield, all that had happened and everypony that had died, assaulted her mind when she picked up on the latent magical energy in the air. A quick flash of a white light snapped her out of things and she immediately teleported to Last's location, arriving with a gasp and her eyes screwed shut.

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"Mmm, more than ready," Aurora sighed softly and nodded at Happy. She ignored his inebriated state and rolled her neck before using a claw to rub the back of it. "Are we going to retrieve your cart before heading back to Onache with Thorax's answer?"

@Blitz Boom, @Widdershins

DAZZLE GLEAM

"That's what it looks like," Dazzle smiled and humemd in thought. It did strike her odd that Scarcity thought up of a solution to her living situation on the spot rather than asking around for help. "Either way, Scarcity is a wonderful pony to help out a nobody like me. As for the rest of everypony here, are we all waiting for some other ponies to join?"

Blitz Boom · June 13, 2020

@EQ_Theta

On 6/12/2020 at 8:01 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Huh, well… that’s not something we see everyday.”

"Truthfully, they're actually in worse condition than you saw, but I choose to shine a positive light on the dearly departed. No need to show open axe wounds."

Spirits tended to look like they did, the day that they died. Some of them got stronger, and managed to get themselves into a more baseline form, where they instead appeared as if they were alive and well, but overall speaking, the majority were as they were when they passed, and that wouldn't change until they passed along. Considering she were showing some outsiders these spirits though, and she had the ability to cast things in a different light, she had decided to cover things up a bit more nicely. Wouldn't want these folks to think too much on what might have happened with the apparent couple from ages past.

"The gesture is appreciated."

"So are yours. Too many start acting wrong around the dead, or outright disrespect them. It's good to see some can keep a calm head, and show them a simple, yet important bit of kindness."

Tomb looked at Sen with an impressed, warm look in her tired eyes.

"Good to know that the first living longma I see, are a kind, mindful sort. It warms the heart."

So it seemed like Tomb were another of the outside creatures who had met Longma before, though not in the way which Sen and Lin would likely have preferred. It wasn't easy to catch up with, and talk to, other exiles, to hear what sort of experiences they had, when one of the few leads here, talked about only meeting them when they had been dead. Probably some of the poor sods who weren't able to adapt enough to the outside world, and got into a situation they couldn't get out of alone.

On 6/12/2020 at 8:01 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Seems like we’ve got a few options now. Shows, the cave, maybe we could visit the arcade… But, I suppose making ourselves familiar with the place is a good suggestion. Sound good, everyone?”

"...We should go see things?"

Omen were a little confused, as a few larger words had mingled in, whilst she were still thinking on the encounter with the spirits, and thrown her off her sense a little. Which were the reason for the hesitant, tentative note that had gotten into the still largely emotionless, whispering voices.

"Yes, and I agree. It would be good to know the town, so we have some idea where to go, for the things we'd be looking for."

Omen's head cleared up some, once she had confirmation that she had understood things right, and she nodded slowly towards Lin, giving her own agreement on the matter.

As it seemed like the groupw ere ready, Tomb would wave them over towards her as she began to wander calmly down the street, and within a few minutes, would turn left, right before a large tree with a bulbous lower trunk, seemingly working as some sort of theater, or meeting hall maybe.

Within sight of that, were their target: A fairly large, open area, with downtrodden grass and what seemed like a kind of stable. No animals were seen within though, yet several large harnesses were there, and lined up outside the gated up harnesses, were several variants of carriage carts, with space for beings of all sizes. Though for the larger ones, probably a little less than the 2-16 seats that were present. The carts seemed to be polished silver, clean and ready for usage, and rather flexible too. Seemingly speaking to the fact that the one controlling them, would have to get around the place in a speedier manner than would normally be the case, if one tried to drive a regular wagon or cart through the side streets of town.

It also seemed like only around half of them had wheels on them, whilst some of the more lightweight in design, didn't. These were the ones designed for air travel likely, though it begged the question of who, or what, would be dragging those along.

Over near one of these, with the back turned to them, stood an onyx-colored pony, with a shoulder-length, green mane, and a purple, knee-high tail, both tied up in braids.

He or she had their back turned to them, so it were hard to make out more right off the bat, but Omen seemed to stagger for some reason as they got nearer.

"They smell... Wrong."

The pony seemed to perk up and rise up from the work to look around in front of them.

"Hey, where did those voices come from? Are you playing tricks again, Harrow?"

The voice were effeminate, yet not distinguishable as either directly male, nor female.

"No, just a funny new tourist."

Hearing this voice,t he pony turned around, to show that it were in fact, a unicorn. One with a grey eye, and a blue eye. And with a whole lot of old stitches running throughout their face. One long one directly down, which disappeared into their mane, two across each eye, several around the edges of the muzzle, and a few crossed ones on the forehead and ears. The onyx coat made the scars stand out a little less, but it didn't take too much of a look to realize that this one had gotten through quite a lot of facial surgeries. Maybe even some body ones too, though the festive, silvery attire that looked somewhat like a tuxedo with an ankle-high skirt, were made it impossible to be sure.

It did appear as if this were a stallion though. A somewhat smaller, effeminate one that wore light makeup (though strangely, nothing that tried to hide the scars), but a stallion regardless.

"Tomb! I didn't think you'd come around here for another five hours at least. Please say you brought something good with you?"

"You know they don't open the winery for anypony before the carnival starts, not even our family."

The stallion seemed to frown a little at this.

"They should start to make some exceptions. We do a lot of work preparing for these things, and some of us gets thirsty."

"Don't worry, I'll make sure you get something to drink soon as they open.

Anyway, everypony? This is Banshee Boo, who make sure we have tours to take, throughout Moonlit Thicket. Banshee, these are Omen, Shrimp, and... Huh, I think I forgot to ask their names actually..."

"That's what happens when you dont sleep enough. You know that grandma says it's not healthy for you."

"She also says I'm not allowed to sleep too long."

"Everything is a balance act hon. A-N-Y-Way, hows about you funny folks tells us who you are then, and how we can help."

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

@Windy Breeze

(whilst the spirit were there, in front of them)

Sorrow took a step forth towards the ghost, afraid, but hellbent on trying to help, and end this nightmare for everypony involved.

"Please, tell us what's wrong, Autumn. We're here to help you. Did he do something to you? To the foals? Is that why you' can't move on?"

She'd ask, well aware that she'd likely not get an answer anytime soon. From everything she had seen so far, she honestly didn't know what to believe anymore. It might all be one big trick, or them wandering into a cloud of memories, spliced in with the *author's* hindsight comments every so often.

Legion would try to reach out too, talking loudly, and telling the spirit that they could help them, calm them down, and prepare to finally move on. In ghost talk though, so only Autumn would be able to hear it, of the ones gathered here.

(After I assume the spirit takes off again)

"Okay, I don't know exactly what we're wandering into here anymore."

She were just getting more and more confused and frankly, scared at what it were that she were seeing happening around here.

"I thought it might have been a malevolent couple, but now she starts threatening him, talking about missing foals and... I don't know if this is a misdirect, actual demonic possession, or memories we're seeing played out, spiced in with Autumns own, deep seated hate. And if we don't know what we're dealing with, I'm not sure if we can actually solve this. It's not as simple as I thought it would be anymore.

The foal napping, that seems to be part of this, right? And that was real, from what you said. What went on back then? When did it happen? And did everypony come back home? Did they say anything about what happened to them?"

Sorrow would've asked Quill about all of this, as she were local, but she had fainted after the last part from the spirit/memory of Autumn. Apparently, she wasn't able to take all of this anymore, which were understandable enough. It were a crazy, messed up situation. Especially when it involved somepony you knew, that might have been murdered, perhaps had a husband taking part in foal napping, and potentially were just a spiritual puppet to a malevolent being that didn't belong in this world. Honestly, if you could go through this without being affected one way or another, something were wrong with you.

(ignore this part if Quill is taken away)

It certainly wasn't safe to just pass out here though, so seeing as she were the largest, and likely therefor strongest of the two of them, Sorrow would prepare to go over and sling Quill up on her back. It'd make flying impossible, but that were a small price to pay for the pony not being left alone somewhere that one or more potentially malevolent spirits, would maybe do bad things to do. Perhaps due to a personal connection.

*sigh* This whole thing was just so confusing... They needed answers, and it just seemed like whenever one were answered, six more would pop up.

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"..."

She wanted to say something as she heard this. Some kind of comforting word to what it were she assumed had happened to her, when she had been found almost dead in that hole, but what could she even begin to say? Leviathan were no stranger to horrid things happening, but if she were even a little correct in her current assumptions, she couldn't say that she had tried anything so demeaning and disgusting herself. Not even close, and her even trying to formulate the words *Look, I understand* in any sort of way, made her want to rip out her own larynx. Quite frankly, it wouldn't be unreasonable for Ruby to want to do the same. For a start.

Still, it felt wrong to say nothing, yet she just couldn't find any words to address that sort of situation, though her facial expression might say quite a bit to Ruby. The mixture of sadness, and pity going over her facial expression, as well as the seething rage roaring in her eyes, at thinking about what had happened to Ruby, to a point where she were letting out small sparks around her uncontrollably, would tell volumes of how she felt about this whole thing.She were enraged and horrified at the same time, and frankly hoped that whatever Ruby implied she had done to the one who had stumbled upon her, were not even close to how much she made sure he suffered. And if somehow, that creature had survived what she did, she hoped she'd be there to see the life snuffed out of him for good. Some lines you did Not cross. Not even by their kind, who generally saw rules as a checklist of things to break for their own amusement, or out of principle.

Leviathan felt her hands grab deep in the earth beneath her, as the tension going over her worked its way slowly throughout her being. And to imagine this were just by imagining what had happened to Ruby, which were someone she barely knew. If it had happened to herself... If she hadn't died that day, she would've not stopped until she engulfed the entire countryside in a never-ending storm, regardless of how it'd likely be fueled by her own life force to exert that much. Anything to make someone who did what she imagined, pay back a thousandfold, would be worth it.

"...Some things shouldn't be allowed. I hope when you become alpha, they will be made to respect some boundaries."

It were all she'd say on the topic. She wouldn't ask for details, claim she knew what were going on, or understood, but it were somewhat remarkable to hear her wish actual harm inflicted upon other dragons, considering her previous interaction with Ruby on the subject. Seemed like there were lines that could be crossed where even she couldn't forgive, nor walk away from it.

"I find it strange that there were a large collection of books for you to stumble over though. I've known dragons hoarding strange things, but few actually considers knowledge to be power.

Boulderclaw were the strangest. Collected flowers, had them all planted in a giant field, and sat atop his mound, waiting for others to come and plead for some of the rare, powerful ones. Make a good case, and he could be persuaded. Probably the most worshiped, fair dragon I've ever met."

A humongous fire dragon that one, but a kind soul, who didn't want to fight others if it were needed, and just enjoyed sitting in his field and tend to his flowers. He weren't kind to repeat offenders trying to steal anything from his garden though, but as said, he were fair. Convince him that your cause was just, or trade him with obscure fauna that he didn't have in his garden already, and he'd part with some of what he had. There was a great symbiotic relationship for that matter, between him and a nearby zebra tribe. Despite him looking like he could use a zebra as a tooth pick.

This wasn't really relevant to anything, but it helped Leviathan calm down some to talk about things, and right now, she felt like she had to, before she'd go to her other way of calming down: Electrocuting something. She were still a dragon after all and aggression were a great, therapeutic thing for a lot of them.

Ruby likely had an inkling of that too at this point. Wasn't the first time Leviathan had started yapping on, and probably wouldn't be the last either.

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"Okie-dokie. Long as there's somepony there to watch out for her, that's what matters the mo-"

The clock would give off a ding, and Agni would rise up instantly, flying over and ready to face his wooden antagonist again. But there were none. It were just what happened when the clock hit half, and no matter how much he pecked at the little house, it'd stay in there.

"Awh, look at him. He wanna go in and say hello to his little bird friend. How adorable, hehe.

If you don't wanna go to the forest for a few days, what sorta thing are you planning on doing then? Preparing for your big meeting with the princesses? It sounded like that's gonna be loads of important, so you're probably gonna need to prepare. I dunno what sorta thing would be part of a big meeting like that though. Muffins, maybe? Oooh, we could bake muffins! Wanna make some treats with me, Nada?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

The knife would slip out of the pony's grip, not long after she had managed to get hold of it. Leaving her to watch desperately as she were dragged away from her salvation, and towards her doom, and no amount of clawing were saving her from that right now.

Scarecrow's intervention however, did help. Surprised at the sudden assault, it instinctively let go of its lunch, who scrambled along over to get her knife, and turned around to see who her savior were. The look on her face said less that she were relived and more than she thought she were now witnessing two fighting over whose dinner she'd become. AKA: She were mortified.

It would only enforce that idea once the creature in irritation, then shot its tongue out towards Scarecrow, thinking that one way or another, it would have a meal now. Yet it retracted it shortly after making contact, with the look on its face clearly stating that even to something like this, he tasted revolting.

With that option out of the way, it would instead try to lob goo at him, to trap him, so that he couldn't interfere further with it's lunch. Yet as it began to open wide to fire away, a tendril would snatch its leg and pull it down, making it miss the target by about a meter. Unless Scarecrow had intended to avoid the hit by jumping forward, but that seemed unlikely.

The frog-like creature would pull its leg hard and be rid of the tendril, just to find that there would be another one rising up from the dirt shortly after to grab at it again.

It would scan around, until it saw Lyriel, eyes closed and with her hooves into the ground, as if she were concentrating. It did not know what this creature were, but it seemed to be the one stopping it from eating, so the next lob of goo would be thrown directly at her. If Scarecrow got in the way, the goo would engulf him, and he'd find that it were akin to being locked on a glob of actual swamp matter. Tar-like in feel and substance alike, with no air trapped in there with him. Not something that would likely be an issue for him, what with not breathing and all that.

If he instead pushed her away, her concentration would go, and the tendrils would stop. At which point the creature would charge towards him, front arms risen and ready to smash down to crush first him, and then the other rude dinner guest.

As for its original meal, she stood fairly shocked and somewhat paralyzed to the side, unsure what to do as the madness unfolded.

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

@Sekel

"Everything needs a counter balance. Life and death, good and evil, fire and water, you name it, and there is something out there to keep things balanced. For your elements, it is the Elements of Disharmony. They function similar to a magic foci, like what witches use, but amplifies it, and adds magic of its own kind. Lies makes strong illusions. Depression makes everyone lose their will to resist. Hatred can spark a civil war, and so forth. From what I heard, they did not function well together though. Something are supposedly trapped inside of them, that refuses to work with the other elements, so they grow weaker when they're together.

Far as I know, there's many groups who constantly try to hide them, including the dragon sect that kidnapped me. May they all wither upon the sand dunes."

"We have one of the elements that were confiscated from Chariot, once he were apprehended. It's currently in holding somewhere safe."

"Good. Keep it, and do so far away from me. I will not hesitate to hurt others, if they even attempt to convince me to carry that thing again."

"Duly noted, though I had no intention of doing so.

As for your question, Karmic, the only breakout I have heard off in recent days, ,beyond the one just brought before us, were by a seer calling himself Zhu. From what I hear, he had kidnapped a civilian that were in the drunk cell near him, and tried to use her as a bargaining chip during the attempt. Far as I am aware, he is still in the hospital, after General Tidal Wave dragged him there. I am still awaiting a report on what exactly happened to him, but the name Zhu have come up enough throughout Equestria over the last several centuries, around enough important happenings, for me to have him held in the hospital, until he is ready to be questioned. I believe he have some important answers for us.

Have you heard of any else, since you ask?"

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

@Sekel

Twilight would feel two hooves take hold of her, and drag her further away from the battlefield. The cold, shaking one belong to Cherish, who were still affected herself by the entire thing, and doubly so after what it were that she had seen there, as Last and her pushed through. The calm, firm and warm hoof though, were Last's, who'd more or less lead the princess away from there, and towards the entrance to the forested area. Not further though. She didn't know if they needed to go in there. She just knew that there were a tree stump that she could lead the princess to, that she may have a seat and calm herself.

"It's okay your majesty, you're through now."

"It was h-horrible..."

"You said that there weren't anything."

"T-That's the point. It were just like the graveyard. I could feel a spirits had been there. A lot of them, for a long time, but they were just gone now. Weren't even one there, and it terrifies me to think of what happened that they all just went away like that."

"Whatever it were, it's done. We have a mission to focus on here. Are you feeling okay, Princess Twilight?"

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

@Sekel

"Nah, I figure we'll get it later, and if they messed it up, I'll be having word with Thorax. The sort that'd get him a right good spanking or something, for messing up my work. I'm sure it'll be fine though, and honestly? I could go with a walk right now. I can't really get proper drunk off the little I've had, but I sure as hay feel all sorts of tipsy. Come on, let's have a wander, and see if I can't sober up before we get back."

He'd grin at Aurora, thinking about all the crazy stuff that were gonna happen now, when he'd return with not just a random drone anymore, but an actual queen in the making. His queen wouldn't believe her own eyes. Or okay, that were just a saying, since she would believe it when she saw it, but that was beside the point he were making. Right? He sorta lost track halfway...

Aaaaanyway, they had a long wander to get to, so, they might as well get started. They could fly too right away if it were, but Happy were likely to hit a tree once in a while if it were, since drunk flying wasn't a discipline he were any good at. Walking were a good deal easier, long as he didn't have to run. If he did, it'd be a sight to behold.

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

@Sekel @Widdershins

"We are waiting for the last two of their family. A pair of brothers it sounded like.

And well... Scarcity is good at sorting things, and she can be very friendly. She's also smart enough to know I would have offered you a room anyway, so she just kinda set things in motion, and added her own stuff. You'd be surprised how good she is at improv planning, that actually works. I guess you have to be, to deal with the nobles. I hear they can be kinda testy at times."

Scarcity used more elegant, harsh words to speak about this them in their correspondence, but Stare could not blame her. They did not have a good history with them when they were younger, and while things had become better over the years, as Scarcity started to rise on the social ladder, she still held disdain for them. In her own words, blanking them off with antiques, and using a fair share of those money to give to causes and beings they would have hated, gave her a petty, yet delightful degree of joy.

Well, except for those who had been really bad to them whilst they were younger. Those uhm... They had some tough times over the years. As said, her sister were smart, but some things she could be unbelievably petty and vindictive about. Especially when it came to things happening to her younger sister. She had always been protective like that.

"I don't think they need us here for that though so uhm... We could go and I could show you your new room if it were? Again, I'd have to move a few things around, but it's not so bad."

Windy Breeze · June 14, 2020

@Blitz Boom

After Autumn vanished, Windy collapsed to her haunches but is still conscious. She heard a thud and saw Quill fainted. Hearing Sorrow, she looked at her and said “I guess w-what we just saw is probably her memories, showing us her memories of her and... Razor” she slowly stood back albeit shaky due to the fear she had for the poltergeist “If she's this powerful, then we have to expect more memories, whispering voices, and even hallucinations. We can't go back now” she then turn to Quill “I'll be carrying her” she told Sorrow before slowly putting the unconscious unicorn to her back.

As they finally continue their walk, the fog didn't dissipated, and Windy is prepared for another memories to pop out, and for possible attacks. Laying limply on her back is Quill.

The street they are walking on is now written with hateful words, possibly for Autumn's husband for some reason they will find out when they reach Autumn's residence. All doors are open, and the buildings around seemed taken little damage and vandalized. All except one

They passed by a house, damaged but has its lights on, they could hear voices of a couple, comforting each other.

Why are there ponies still staying here Windy thought “Hey, Sorrow. Is this one of Autumn's 'creation'?” she asked.

Edited June 16, 2020 by Windy Breeze

EQ_Theta · June 14, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“First… living… longma?”

The siblings grew silent and shuddered at the implications behind those three words. They weren’t the first of the exiles; it was a practice so old it was about as ingrained into them as the idea of Celestia raising the sun for ponies. Exile was reserved for irredeemable criminals and yet they knew that being victims of said practice raised the question of whether or not those who were exiled were all bad. And that was before going into the grittier details behind their own exile. If word of others made it into pony-occupied lands, where did the other exiles find themselves?

“I… I’m glad you think of us as the heartwarming sort but….” Sen paused and wondered if there was anything more to say; it was a bittersweet feeling deep inside. He knew not all longma were terrible but as much as he is glad to make a good first impression for somepony, there are just as many others who wouldn’t live up to Tomb’s words. “Never mind. Let’s… let’s go.”

Lin could recognize at the uncertainty growing in her brother’s voice. Their troubles weren’t over but she knew this was at the tip of the work cut out for them. What they did here was only the first step in a much larger task that will very likely last their lifetimes. And what else could be said? There was the scale of their task, the reception back home, the expectations, and so much more, yet it brought back reminders of how things were when all this started. It painted a rather ugly picture of the longma from the perspective of young and confused children.

But their attention was brought to another pony working around some steel carts of interesting design. Wagons but not the kind used by the conventional pony for transport. If this is a carrier for tourists, it definitely made a fair first impression on the siblings. That and the pony nearby would see the group gathered around.

“Greetings, Banshee. My name is Lin, this is my brother, Sen, and our friend, Rosa. I take it you’re the one giving tours to visitors?” Sen bowed as Lin provided the introduction. As far as appearances go, the unicorn stood out for being different. Not that there was anything wrong with that, but it left the longma wondering just what led to the scars. Perhaps now wasn't a good time to ask. Frankly, it might as well be a question left unanswered.

Catpone Cerberus · June 14, 2020

@Blitz Boom
Ruby didn't see Leviathan's expressions since she was staring at a wall, but she did sense her emotions and the sparks, not that she seemingly cared, nor did she give reaction to Leviathan's response, because as far as she would admit, she didn't tell it to get sympathy or any other reaction, but because she figured it would help Leviathan to see where Ruby was coming from with how she saw the world, like she had said before telling it. She also wouldn't continue on the topic for any longer, since she didn't exactly like to talk about it.

"It wasn't necessarily a dragon." She pointed out, clearly pleased by Leviathan leaving the previous topic alone "I mean, in current day it would be very unlikely to be anything else than a dragon, but that cave hadn't been used in a while, and considering how outdated the information About Equestria was, that while is most likely close to thousand years, so it's possible." "All I know is that who or whatever it was, they or one of their forms at least was small enough to read and possibly write books, and they liked order, as the place looked more like a library than a hoard."

--------------------------------------
Nada smiled, Agni's curiosity was still a nice thing to watch. "I haven't really planned much, I was thinking of just reading and waiting, I don't really know how to prepare for the meeting with the princesses since I don't know when it is." she explained "But if you are going to bake something, I'll do my best to help, but be warned, I know absolutely nothing about baking."

---------------------------------------------
Though Scarecrow was glad he wasn't a pleasant snack for the overgrown frog, it didn't necessary help with his self-picture to be revolting even to a gross monstrosity like this. He avoided the first ball of goo thanks to Lyriel, but for the second one that was aimed at the dryad, he took the hit, because not knowing how Lyriel worked, he didn't want to accidentally hurt her by pushing her while she was doing her thing.

As he braced for the hit, he put his wings in a way that they kept his horn clean in case the goo had magic suppressing properties, and he made himself as big as possible in attempt to make the escape easier in case he got trapped.

The lack of air indeed did not bother him at all, in fact, he even managed to speak inside it as he commented "I'm sure this smells terrible, so it's probably better it was me who got hit." while starting the process of getting out of the goo. Depending how much there was, it would take some time assuming nobody helped him, but he would be able to clean it up enough to join the fight again eventually, because his only real physical limit was his bones, since due to not feeling pain, he could move himself with enough strength to break them if needed to. He also used his magic to use pieces of wood and such as shovels of sort from outside.

Widdershins · June 14, 2020

@Pastel Heart & @Blitz Boom

At the interruption of the fillies, Slimpsy noticeably bit his lip. "I don't have a family. That's not an exaggeration. I'm just a part of some mess of a monster that, for the good of all living shouldn't come to be. The longer I can avoid the chaotic trouble we always inevitably bring, the better." He sighed.

"Look, I... I don't save anybeing, little girl. Just sometimes when I run, I catch others in my tailwind.

B-but... You're the father, yes?" Slimpsy flickered his attentions to the officer. "You heard the filly, yes?! It'd be unresponsible to not watch these girls like a hawk and never leave their side! I'm with the Bubblegum here! Must....SAVE....THE CHILDREN!" Slimpsy said in the over-strained tone of the typical wormy suspect Stargazer would be well aware of that took every opportunity and distraction as an excuse to not focus on what they should be booked for. Then again, this stallion always had the expression that you were shining a hot interrogator's lamp in his face.

Slimpsy seemed to be dodging any specifics about what the trouble he was, evidently in a poorly disguised effort to not give reason that he should be hunted down. As things stood, he was taking whatever side meant he didn't have to agree with Stargazer's plan of returning back like orders were. It didn't reflect well on a grown stallion that they were preferring a filly's plan of action, but that did happen more often than not in Equestria.

________________________________________________________

@Sekel & @Blitz Boom

"It's..." Blither begain, averting his eyes away from Scarcity as they talked in what was a sign of dodging a question. It might be apparent that despite being the supposed head of the Cephalli family siblings, pony behavior still wasn't his strength. "More of... a sort of Magical Field. Whereupon the girding of magical aftershocks due to side effects from... well, it's all theory primarily and I do not wish to test what you are capable of in Magical Theory. It's just that... when we're together the area has to be prepared for it as... well, its kind of more a thing we're better off doing alone. I asked for aid in acquiring knowledge where we all are so we can best... ah, "shoo" out of here and be out of Ponyville's hair, so to say! Eh-heh!"

&

At the mention of learning, Monolith's face slightly twinged in what might have been an effort at an expression. Head sinking slightly as if beginning to turn his head to actually face Alonsus, he spoke in a low, but still deep voice.

"Library...yes. For but a time, we didst reside within the ruins of an abandoned Library. As penultimate youngest, I twas regaled by mine eldest brethren of tales of aged courts in days of yore..."

Interrupted, perhaps by the slow weight of his words, Chop's order drew Alonsus's attentions away. Having quickly silenced in turn, Monolith's bright yellow eyes flickered the direction Alonsus was called by his boss. Turning back to his position as Alonsus did to reposit another request, he responded by turning around more silently then his bulk would merit.

"Fair thee well, at thine behest, I shalt capitulate."

Monolith was the more remarkably agreeable of the family.

Picking himself up, Shortstack grinned at Chop. "A challenge, eh? I can do anything anybeing can; iffin't better! Gimmie yer best, Cookie!" Shortstack said, grinning and turning to prop himself up on the table while gripping it with his hooves. Something that might have looked like a fair bit of a challenge already, considering his height.

Sunny, however, showed motherly concern to Chop. Cheeks puffed out in expression of worry, she looked down at the older stallion. "You okays, Little Horsie? You look awl beated up? Can I give you a back massage o' something? You look like you need youself a good day, Cutie!" Sunny did have a poor habit of coming off a bit strongly, especially to stallions.

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

*Meanwhile!*

@Blitz Boom

Flit propped his head up to shoot his mugging expression at the shop owner even more. "Why yes, any good Tavern is always a good place to meet new beings! Get Shortstack off my back for a bit to have somepony else to tussle with for a while. But don't you worry your pretty little head over what kind of a hydra I am! That's all magical hoopla better left in the wavy hands of unicorn heads!" Flit chattered speedily uncaring of his specific word choice.

"But yes, I do agree! "Sireing" sure is a favorite hobby of mine! It does tend to happen if I have any say it in it! But tell me back, tell me true!" The tall green stallion flipped in his chair to watch Berry go back behind the counter again, draping his long, bright red mane on the table and lounging in much the same angle he was sitting and carried in a tone he clearly intended for Berry to hear. "Doesn't this Sweet Little Barmaid have anypony of her own to love and care for?"

"...And what about you too?" He shortly added.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@Sekel

"And what?" The drake shot Dawn Streak a doubtful, flat expression over the kitchen table. "Be less of a dragon?... I was... raised by both nearly.

"The other young dragons pick on you quite a lot. It toughens you up. That's why I had to go out and get my own cave. It's how dragons are supposed to be raised. You have to know how to fight. Not just be some Prissy Pony Princess's poised, perfect Pet."

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

@Catpone Cerberus

The pink-violet ball of light bobbed off after Cerberus as he walked across the rocky red desert and up the near vertical redrock cliffside. All during, it would chatter away with semi-helpful comments.

Have you packed all you need in your ~~Inventory~~ packs? Did you know bombs can stack to twenty, and if you pay a guy in Canterlot you can stack them to, like, thirty?!!?

Did you know that if you hold the Up Button you can climb cliff faces faster?!!? If you're lucky, we might stumble across a small cave in which we can get you a Grappling Hook! ...which is rather fortunate since clearly no one goes by often enough to warrant a dude selling stuff.

Say? You have claws on them hooves? I've forgotten to check your Character Bio. You sure are a good climber!

FanOfManyShows · June 14, 2020

@Blitz Boom

Astral had returned before she overstayed her welcome as Chariot takes a seat, looking to Emerald.
"Only about an hour? At least I know they can't cause much damage in that amount of time."

"Yes, let's just ignore Tirek, Discord, Sombra-"

"Okay okay, fair point, at least one of those were reformed."

"This is a group of like, five ponies, they are dangerous."

"I was the only pony in the group for as long as I was a part of it."

"Really? Rather surprising."

"Well non-ponies tend to lack magic entirely. Even I an earth pony have a bit of magic naturally.
Anyhow, I wouldn't rush this ritual given what the results of that may be. However if they do cause trouble we can leave Emerald to do it."

Astral glanced to Emerald- or Chow, maybe both at the same time.
"Yeah."

"They are sisters there's no way she'd mess this up on purpose."
He said, seeing what type of look she was giving.

"I know, Sorry."
She said with a sigh, exiting out of the house to sit outside, Misty following her outside.

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

He had no clue why Shade was sounding so accusatory, he didn't have a clue what happened either, so he flew back to Canterlot

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

The pull was so strong she started to move of her own accord as she shook as she realized her hoof was handing over the element already
"Skall!"

His head turned unnaturally fast, his focus breaking as Opal retreated her hoof, shaking as the impulse to hand the element over grew ever stronger.
"Come on Steel! I am having a moment here!"

He had a scar over his right eye, a chip in his metal beak. His claws clattered as their metal armor hit the ground, his wings shuffling under his cloak.
He pulled back his hood, revealing a pair of large grey feathers.
"Just take it already! We have no reason to delay this for show business."

Skall grew in size as he walked over to Steel Beak, getting over him.
"I have all the time for show business."

Opal shivered in place, a sense of awe at what Skall was doing.
"Shameful you think this form of intimation works on me still."

Clattering was heard across the floor, as a bottle of powder landed at Skalls now massive feet, as he held it in two claws.
"Just take it!"

"Why thank you!"
His head twisted upside down, his grin wide as he began to shrink down.

"We need to see if Warlock is onboard with our regrouping."

"He won't be, they reformed him."

Steal beak glanced to Opal with a stare of death.
"How pitiful, It seems I was right Skall."

"Come on, we both knew he was never going to work, who will be a good stand in for Greed?"

"I think I know who...."
They both disappeared, leaving Opal alone, grinning as she pulled out something from under her cloak-

"AH!" She was picked up, as a chuckle was heard, looking to see Skall, still present.

"I figured, they never do hand over something so quickly!"
He ripped it out of her hooves and threw her to the floor, disappearing again, now she was truely without the element.

Rising Dusk · June 15, 2020

@Blitz Boom

"Princess Twilight will be the one Harrowmark will be in contact with the most. As it is both her domain of Friendship and the possible future ruler of Equestria. Princess Celestia as the current ruler in the mean time will serve as the key point for any major discussions between the two lands. Princess Luna as second in command might plan a minor role, but I imagine she'll make a journey to Harrowmark with her sister or be present should the Queen wish to visit Equestria. I'm not sure ignoring Princess Cadance would be most advised, the Crystal Ponies have a good deal of trade that is part of my plan," Dawn explained, not all that particular about hiding but one portion of the first stages in connecting with Harrowmark. "Alicorns are rather unique and possess a magic of their own. Powerful, regal and ageless," she smiled. Alicorn magic looked the same to her as any old use of the arcane, but her brother told her it was different, far different where it mattered.

Dawn remembered when Rising was a young colt, he had a small crush on her Royal Sunniness, but not for the same reasons as the other colts. It was because of what he saw in her magic. He'd often stare out of their window up at the Moon, gazing at the spell the trapped Nightmare Moon. It was so elegant, beautiful, complex, full of determination, but also a great sadness. A pony could hide anything with false words, facades and body language. Nothing could be hidden in magic, not from her brother. He grew out of the crush of course, but she always figured he'd find his love in one's magic, which was tricky for her and their mother in finding a match for him considering that aspect made no sense to them.

"A pity your land's own court had to suffer. A dark blot to be read in the history books when they finally make it our way. A new ruler for a new era, our lands might share the sentiment in common," she chuckled. A chuckle that was quickly ended by the next tale of what Twisted did and how the Queen handled it. "Charming," she swallowed, definitely not something the Princesses will be most use to. A briefing will need to be in order.

Once Lily toured her new room and gave her approval, Dawn nodded and flicked her hair, "I'm glad you approved, darling." Then her curious inquiry about the room caught the hostess a little off guard. Most don't bother to ask about such things, maybe because they might be too intoxicated to care. A note to keep track of. "A portal? No..." she started, motioning to the window that overlooked the fountain and lawn to the entrance of her manor. "I simply altered the space through a few presets I've created over time. Using a portal to whisk you away to a cabin in some Equestrian forest would go against what I told my brother... keeping you here," she smirked. Trotting over to a closet door, she ignited her horn with its rainbow glow and knocked on the closet door three times. Flicking her horn to open the door to reveal the Ponyville Spa on the other side. A large red earth pony receiving a massage from a spa pony, both having paused to look dumb founded at the cabin door that just moments ago was just the door they walked into to get to the massage room. "But I do know a thing or two about portals... hold for applause..." she proudly smiled and soaked in her own ego. Closing the door and letting her magic drop from her horn, an act she didn't need for the altering of room they now stand in.

Edited June 15, 2020 by Rising Dusk

Blitz Boom · June 15, 2020

@Windy Breeze

"Are you sure I shouldn't take her? No offence to you Windy, but I'm bigger, and probably stronger than you, and if something goes wrong, you're a better flyer. It'd be better if you were able to use your wings, rather than me, right?"

This were Sorrow's argument at the time, yet if Breeze remained stubborn on this, she would stop, and let Breeze take Quill, as they moved onward down the street, spotting some really disturbing imagery down the road. Not like, illusions, but the myriad of empty houses, hateful words scratched and written into the building surfaces... There was a lot of hate here, which were not making things better. Poltergeists were strong, emotional apparitions, and hate were both intensely strong at times, and made the poltergeist aggressive. When would they ever find some good news about all of this, instead of just several flavors or being bad?

Not yet, that were for sure, as the single, lit house got into view. Usually something good at times, but in this place, with all that had gone on? Probably something bad would come from going over there.

"...I don't think it's gonna be pretty, but if we'e to make things right, and get out of this alive, we'll need to know more. Whatever goes on in there, might have some important answers."

If Breeze weren't quick, Sorrow would wander first, and grab hold in the door to see if it were open.

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

@EQ_Theta

On 6/14/2020 at 9:22 AM, EQ_Theta said:

First… living… longma?”

"Yes, sadly you're the first living ones I've seen out of exile. If it is any consolation though, they've all passed on to the afterlife now. The poor souls just needed some help to tell their worries to, and light their way."

It were partially what her lantern were for. Not just to lead the living, or find her way through the village and surrounding forest on really dark days, but to help those who already passed on. With how many tended to be attracted to the festivities of this and the other villages when it happened, there were usually enough for her to do on days like this, and today didn't seem like that were any less true. Both in regards to the dead and living.

That she were also able to bridge the gap between the two, and let others see one another, were a nice bonus at times too. It tended to allow her to bring some families or friends together, and let them say their goodbyes, even if she had to translate from the spirit's side.

On 6/14/2020 at 9:22 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Greetings, Banshee. My name is Lin, this is my brother, Sen, and our friend, Rosa. I take it you’re the one giving tours to visitors?”

Banshee rose a hoof up, and snickered with a low volume giggle. Apparently, something in what Lin had said had been rather amusing.

"Try and ignore it. Bit of an inside joke you managed to hit on. Heh... Heh..."

"All fun, but yes, this is indeed where the tour goes from. You're looking to have a trip for your party? It isn't technically time yet, buuuut-"

"I'm telling grandma if you finish that sentence."

Banshee pouted as Tomb said this.

"Hmph. You're no fun today."

It seemed to be mostly exaggerated, and just some light teasing, as families tended to do. The small smirks they sent one another during this really didn't help them selling this as authentic any better.

"Anyway, what kind of view are you looking for? Aerial, or ground level? Aerial is simply better, since you get a nicer overview of things, but some folks likes a more relaxing, down to earth trip. Have to give the people what they want sometimes, hm?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"Dragon, pony, whatever- Doesn't matter. Some acts are morally, universally, reprehensible.

... *sigh* But the hoard, or library, whatever it were, it taught you what to do before coming here? Might've been the books got stolen from a merchant once upon a time. Had that happen in Dragon Land a few times.

Whatever's the case, I'm just happy you're here now, and not back in that dingy, underground word fiesta. If you didn't burn the books though, I dunno, try and sell some to the ponies. They love most old books, so you might make a mint.

And speaking of ponies, how're your wound so far? Improving?"

Not the best segue, but it were the best she could offer at the time, as Leviathan tried to push away from going too close into the... Incident, however long ago it happened. She really didn't want to suddenly blurt out something that'd give her the rightful (maybe last) beating of her life.

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"Then let's go bake. Come on, it'll be fun. And tasty. What's a better combination than that?"

Ziggy would one moment jump a little in front of Nada, then in the next, suddenly have rushed into the kitchen, leaving only a streak of candycane-color to show her path. She were a fast mare when she wanted to be, and right now, she did, as she were rummaging through the cabinets and taking out some things like flour, chocolate, knives, whisks, etc. Crown on the work for now though, were going to be a cook book, which she'd bring over to Nada, no matter where the siren would be at the time, and hold it up towards her scaled friend.

"Try and go under deserts, and pick one that you think looks yummy. We'll go through it, and I'll teach you how to bake it. Just imagine how good the meeting with the princess would be, if you showed up with something home made, right? The princesses loves their varied cakes, far as I've heard."

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

@Catpone Cerberus

Sadly, the time between spitting out the globs of goo, wouldn't be long enough for Scarecrow to make it out that easily. In fact, he's figure this out as the second glob hit him as well, making his *prison* heavier and larger, which would likely still not do a lot lot to him, other than making this a bit more annoying.

And speaking of annoying, it seemed Lyriel's minor annoying tactics had finally met its end run, as the creature's tongue spewed out, and wrapped itself around her ankle. She'd be forced to the ground as the creature began dragging her off, with an expression on its face, showing that it was confused as for the taste, and uncertain if this one were food. Yet as the vines started to stop spewing up against it, it considered the action to be good regardless, and would get the strange *pony* near enough for it to stop her. Permanently.

It'd get Lyriel within about two meters before a movement would catch the eye of the dryad. Not from the original target, but from a strange sight, coming in from behind the frog-like creature.

"Princess! What have I told you about eating ponies?"

The creatures halted the dragging, and turned to face the odd creature, and let out another, croaking roar.

"No, I said Not to eat them. And it doesn't count that those two aren't ponies. Go chase a boar or something. Go on, or I'm gonna turn you back."

The creature let go of Lyriel, and grumbled, like an irate teenager, before jumping into the thick forest on it's strong legs, quickly getting out of sight.

"Kids sometimes, right? You stop watching them for one second, and they go off to eat an adventurer. She'll spoil her appetite like that."

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

@Widdershins @Pastel Heart

Stargazer looked like he were about to put a hoof on his forehead, and let out a long, drawn out sigh, whilst mumbling about whatever or not he actually liked his job. Instead, he just took a breath, before responding as calmly as he could to the panicked... Pony, or something else, maybe. It were hard to say if he were just crazy, or something really would happen if they all met up at this point.

"I'm her father, and I will do anything for her, but I would fail as a parent if I kept her under constant guard. Foals need to experience things without their parents constantly lurking over their shoulders constantly. They need to have their own adventures, make friends, and go through the ups and downs of life. Sometimes they get hurt by it, but I won't be around to protect her from that forever, so the best I can do for her, is to make sure she knows how to fend for herself, and to know that whatever happens, I'll always be there for her."

He'd run a hoof through Jelly's mane, carefully avoiding to hurt Gary as he did so. whom scurried briefly out of the way to make room for the meaty hoof.

"Family's important like that."

"Uhuh. Your family's important too, mister. You might think it's best if you're away from them, but I still think that you're a sorta special, but nice pony. You saved us earlier, and it didn't look like an accident. It was pretty cool actually, and heroic. Doesn't your family need a hero like that, if they get into so many troubles?"

Things were somewhat baseline for Jelly, but this were her argument for the time being. Largely because she weren't sure what Slimpsy were actually on about with the relations to the others. Her father started to have some, which is why he'd take over afterwards, though cautiously.

"I won't force you to go to them, Slimpsy. It's your own choice, but I'd at least know where to find you, so there's some sort of check up on things. They might calm down more if they know where you are. Also, I'd like to know more about what you just said. About you not having a family, but being part of a chaotic mess. Starting to think you're being more literal with that, than what's good for Ponyville."

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

@Widdershins

"It sounds as if you are referring to a multi-being magical amplifying matrix, no? Something akin to what happens when the wearers of the Elements of Harmony are working together, just on a more... Shall we say *uncontrollable* level. So you all being within a certain range would cause an influx of rapidly amplified magic, which could cause quite the amount of trouble, yes? Quite the issue you have there dear. Quite the issue... Have you ever considered wearing magic-nullification armaments? Causing even one disruption i the chain, should do well enough to ensure that the completed chaos does not ensue.

Of course, no system is perfect. Some magic simply cannot be contained that easily. Is that the unfortunate situation you find yourself in?"

She didn't believe that it were merely magic that caused all of this, but she would play along for the time being, to try and ease him down, and see what else she might learn. She were getting more and more curious by the minute though, yet one had to be patient at times, and this appeared to be one of them. She had pushed, gotten a push back with a small bit of information, that she were sure were said as loosely as it were to hide the proper truth. She'd learn more in time.

Speaking of the elements though, reminded her that she needed to check up on the Element of Depression that she had... Procured from the hospital a few weeks back. It were secure and well hidden, but she were running a few tests via some associates of hers that might yield some interesting results, and it were about time for her to get an update from them.

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

@Widdershins

Alonsus looked surprised as he turned back to Monolith, after receiving his order from his coworker. Technically, Chop were not above him in the working order, but the former guard had a way of getting through that when he gave an order, it should be followed. It felt wiser to Alonsus to do so, and would give him a little room to breathe, as this place were starting to get quite crowded. And barely any of them focused on him! Oh, the travesty!

"A library you say? Ah, that would explain your way of speaking, my friend. Olden books and scripts are so often written in strange ways. You say you like the tales of... Ah, Either heroes, or gatherings of lawful creatures? Court can mean so many things. Come, let's us walk, and tell us what stories fascinates you."

Alonsus would open the door, and walk outside, holding it open for Monolith to follow. He likely would soon after, leaving them in the great outdoors, rather than cramped into not exactly the best house in Ponyville.

"Personally, I enjoy riveting tales of knights, heroically charging into danger and saving the damsel in distress. The excitement and wonder never ceases for those glamorous heroes, and though danger lurks around every corner, the glory and honor always sounds so encapsulating.

Ah, one day my friend, the great Alonsus shall be one to be written in such marvelous tales. Mark my words."

Honestly, if it wouldn't ruin his parole, he would've done this ages ago, but until he had served his time properly, he had to keep stable income, and live in the same place, where he could be kept an eye on, just in case. Hopefully in a few years, when they saw his continued progress, the courts would reconsider.

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

@Widdershins

On 6/14/2020 at 1:39 PM, Widdershins said:

"A challenge, eh? I can do anything anybeing can; iffin't better! Gimmie yer best, Cookie!"

"Hmph. I'd like to see you make a creme brulee."

He could've also brought up that he liked to see this one do like his former general, and defeat, then tame, a giant octopus, but this seemed like an easier task that were still out of this Shortstack's reach. Bit of a tall order to expect someone of his short tempter to work on something that requires patience, and a warm oven, rather than a hot head, and the aggression levels of a kicked honey badger.

A lot didn't give Chop enough credit for the sort of things he could do. He were a proper, certified chef, and not just some sorta slob maker. Though granted, he were not the best at making baked goods. The stuff he could do were fine, and perfectly edible, but the bakery were just more refined in this sort of art, and he'd concede that they did things better than he could. Perhaps in time though, as he were practicing, and things slowly did get better. He just still did far better with savory or grilled dishes.

On 6/14/2020 at 1:39 PM, Widdershins said:

"You okays, Little Horsie? You look awl beated up? Can I give you a back massage o' something? You look like you need youself a good day, Cutie!"

"Thanks for the concern, but I'm fine. Just an old shark attack."

Sunny seemed harmless enough, or at least not the sort who'd intentionally harm anypony, so he'd show her some respect whilst talking to her, that Shortstack didn't really deserve currently. Didn't mean he wouldn't wander away if she tried to grab hold of him though. He didn't like to be touched by just anypony, and this one had a tone and way of speaking that made him think she had something more in mind. Which were why, a few seconds after he had lifted his head to look her in the eyes, and responded to the first thing, he'd add a little more to the sentence, before it went too far.

"And please don't get any funny ideas. Marefriend wouldn't like it if I got scooped up by somepony else."

Wasn't something he went around and talked about openly, but since it appeared as if Sunny were getting some ideas, it were probably best to just lay it out there, before she started something that'd make him end up rejecting her rather harshly. She seemed like an overgrown filly type of pony, so it'd probably hit her rather hard if it came to that. Just a thought, but best to make sure in this situation, he'd wager.

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

@Widdershins

"Who have enough time to go out and look for somepony, when The Conspiracy is lurking around every corner? Do I look crazy?"

The correct answer to that, as she shifted her eyes from side to side, whilst looking at the lanky brute they had visiting the shop, would be yes. Yes she did. But it was a tolerable amount of crazy, far as Straw were concerned, so he'd allow her to go on with her antics and think what she wanted to. He were sure that one day, she'd manage to understand that it were all just in her head, and get the help she needed to return to reality. That being said, it were still rather low brow crazy in his mind, and she weren't harming anypony, so he weren't pushing it.

"I am in fact, happily married, and have been for the past twenty-one years. A lovely mare whom I wouldn't trade for the world. She even made me this hat, once my bald spot started to grow in."

He'd schuckle a little under his breath, and take off his hat, to show that he did indeed have a rather large bald spot on top of his head. Personally he didn't mind all that much, but his wife had been insistent, and he couldn't say no to her. Partially because he didn't want her to think her gift wasn't appreciated, and partially because quite honestly, she could make him wear this, if he liked to or not. She were a very determined mare, and he loved her all the more for it.

"I'm surprised you say you're a hydra though. I've heard the legends when I were but a young colt, but they always talked about large beasts with multiple heads. I mean no disrespect, but you don't strike me as, and I quote it as best I can, *A hulking behemoth with maws that could swallow a princess whole*."

It were odd, but something were definitely off about this one, that were for sure. For example how he had eaten a cup, along with the stuff inside, and didn't seem any worse for the wear. That certainly did give him some leeway, as no pony Straw knew off at least, were able to do so.

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

@FanOfManyShows

"I could cause a fair bit of trouble in an hour. Give me a rat, two Eldergleam roots, and access to a town's water supply, and it's going to start causing quite a ruckus within the time limit.

...What? It's just an example, don't look at me as if I'd do it. If anything, you should be happy I know how to, since that means I can also whip up a quick antidote."

Some ponies were so judgmental... No idea if they were right now, but it just always felt like they were judging her for something. Probably not something that'd go away anytime soon.

Wouldn't be long before Astral glared at her, as if to accuse her of something again, which only made her feel right in not trusting these one bit. You could just see it in her eyes, how she judged her aunt, even before she had done something... Ungrateful little worm. After all she were doing to give her the family back, which Emerald hated, since it represented what she felt Sapphire had cast her aside for.

"I can deal with the ritual fine. You may not trust me, but I gave a promise, and contrary to my sister, I don't break my word, and turn my back on family, no matter what I think of them. That's Her failure, not mine!"

She had to take a few deep breaths after that, getting herself under control again. She had to remain calm and collected here, regardless of how much she disliked this accursed little spawn, that would likely stab her in the back, as soon as her mother were returned, and Chow were no longer possessed.

As for Chow, Astral wouldn't be able to see him at all right now. He were completely controlled, as Emerald knew how to keep him down, and do so effectively. She knew the dangers that came from allowing him even a small bit of freedom, so he were essentially comatose for the time being.

"You'll see. You will all see, once I bring her back, alive and well. Then who's the monster of this family, little filly? The mare who killed her disabled sister, after promising her the world, just to throw her aside to go find *love*? Or her who even after all of this, still cares enough to bring her back, despite how much pain she brought?"

Emerald nearly sneered as she said this to Astral, with narrowed, angry eyes, and did not wait for an answer before turning to Chariot.

"You're coming down with me. I have some notes on the spirit in the gem to go over before the ritual, and you know them more than me."

With that, she'd start to go downstairs again, unless stopped.

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

@FanOfManyShows

Shade wouldn't show on the entire trip back, but Iron likely knew that he were still being watched.

A few seconds after entering the space of Canterlot though, Shade would reappear, flying next to the general on his own.

"The fire have been extinguished. Reinforcements came from Canterlot and got it snuffed out.

My scout also returned from following the trace that mare gave off. There were four, distinct tracks going into the house of a former pet shop owner, with a fifth entering from another angle. One seems to have flown away, the other vanished. The spell were too vague to get a proper trace on where they went, but I have visuals now. We will find out who went with Chariot, and from there, find these associates of his."

He seemed to be as calm as usual again now, and just stated the facts. Facts to which he'd wait for a reply, as he flew along with the general, not saying a peep more.

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

@FanOfManyShows

Another way Skall could likely tell that the element he got were fake, were that the real one would still call out for him, yearning to be back with the true Carrier of Lies.

When he made a surprise return and snatched the real one, Opal would likely be able to feel a fleeting moment, where the spirit within would be cackling in that raspy voice of it's, and a weak shadow of an elongated, serpentine head and frontal body were shown looking back at her, almost as if judging her. Or maybe, saying goodbye? It mattered little. It did not hurt her further, nor seemingly cared, as the moment were briefly over with, and it would soon be away from Opal, and back in the grace of Skall. The being who had not held it for so long, whom it would offer words it would no other.

"So long it have been, Devourer of Truths. How I missed your blackened heart."

He'd be able to see the weak outline of the serpentine creature too, as it were still weak and needed substance, but it would need more time and usage to gain the power to manifest more properly along with him, as it had done in ages past, when the true wearer of the element had held it. And now, after all these long years, and through many an unworthy carrier, it were now back with the darkened soul who once deserved it. And as far as it could feel, he were still as worthy as the day it had been taken from him.

How it hated that he were not alone though. These others had their own elements. Their own spirits who worked with them, with varying degrees of want for such an arrangement. Why did Skall need to waste his time with them? He had them. It were all he needed. All he'd ever need.

Barely ten seconds back in his grasp, and it were already thinking of how to push the others away from him, so that it could have him all for itself. Some things never changed.

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

@Rising Dusk

On 6/15/2020 at 1:11 PM, Rising Dusk said:

I'm not sure ignoring Princess Cadance would be most advised, the Crystal Ponies have a good deal of trade that is part of my plan," Dawn explained, not all that particular about hiding but one portion of the first stages in connecting with Harrowmark.

"I meant more that while negotiations with Equestria itself were going on, she wasn't the one to focus on, but your intentions are duly noted."

So she'd use a minor state within Equestria as an important bit? Peculiar, but so were the notion that these were crystal ponies. Something which brought imagery up to her which reminded her of the crystal spiders in her homeland. Hopefully not anything like that, yet... It did sounds as something she'd have to get a little more knowledge about, perhaps. Just because they weren't flesh and blood, didn't mean these crystal ponies were safe from being eaten in Harrowmark. Long as being melted into a shake counted as eating. Perhaps something she shouldn't bring up actually, when she'd eventually have the time to ask in further.

On 6/15/2020 at 1:11 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"Charming,"

"I know not much of Queen Magenta, but I'm sure that this were but an act of love. It might sound unfeasible to do something like that to your own flesh and blood, but imagine the alternative. Being followed around by a malformed husk, made partially of your own son, who will never live a proper life, and writhes in constant pain and misery from knowing what he had become... If I were him, I would wish to die, rather than live like that, and I believe Queen Magenta thought the same. Gods be willing, none of us will ever be faced with a choice as grave as hers."

Personally, Lily didn't know if she could do it, were it Sickle in that position. She wouldn't wish her daughter to live such a cursed existence, but she didn't know if she had the sort of strength it would take to strike her down by herself. Truthfully, the answer were likely not, and she would have to beg the town's defenders to release her daughters soul. That the queen could do this showed either her will were stronger than diamond, or she had no heart, and no life held meaning to her. Something which Lily hoped were not the case, as it would spell doom for Harrowmark.

On 6/15/2020 at 1:11 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"But I do know a thing or two about portals... hold for applause..."

Lily let out a sigh, then sat down and began to clap, whilst her eyes mentally rolled around in her head. Ponies with flair, and her, were just not the best pairing one could imagine.

"I'm not much for showmanship, but I will commend your impressive skills in this matter, as well as portal meddling. It is a rather useful skill, though I imagine you will soon enough see that from our end as well. I will give it at best, 36 hours until the portal mages makes a connection, and once that happens, things will begin to take off. I can imagine that seeing this fantastical place will make their jaws drop.

Ah, that's right, I never did inform the detective of this, now did I? You see, for a good, long distance portal between our countries, they will need an anchor point from both places. One of the possibilities are me, as my daughter can be used as a connection link between our two positions, though considering what Blighteye are doing, my guess is that your brother will be the anchor point. Unless of course, he intercepts and cancels out the magic, which will again revert it to me."

She'd point at the bauble. More specifically at her unconscious daughter, and the glowing runes on her stomach, and on Blighteye's iris, as they calmly sailed through the quiet waters.

"An annoyingly useful skill of his, is imprinting magic from one thing to another. Either from where your brother left, or arrived, he would have collected the residue left behind from the spell, and then locked it inside an appropriate carrier.

...My poor daughter, paying the price for a Cursebearer to be in our blood. Even if she have not practiced it, the bare ability lays dormant within her, and I can only assume that the High Priestess could sense this, and made sure that she would agree to let them use this, to ensure the link remains safe, until the portal mages can crystallize it.

*sigh* How I would wish for her to never endure this nightmare, nor any further maladies of her bloodline, if the High Priestess pushes her to become a proper bearer. Yet I suppose, life is scarcely forgiving, nor goes as one would wish. She'll make her own choice in due time.

Forgive my ramblings, Dawn. The room is lovely, and your abilities quite substantial. I question some why you would show me a stallion be prepared what seemed like the beginning of a strange mating ritual though, but I will reserve judgement. I'm sure there were a lesson in that being what you wished to show, once you decided to prove your ability with proper portals as well. Something more profound that you simply having a certain... Preference in your entertainment."

Essentially, Lily kinda thought Dawn were a bit of a perv. A skilled one no doubt, yet a perv regardless. Though again she weren't judging. Whatever made the mare happy, and Lily would lie if she said she weren't curious as if what would have happened, were they to have kept looking. Purely for studying purposes, of course.

(Forgot the part with Rising a few posts back)

Void stood a bit fidgety.

"I uhm... D-Don't know what to t-think. I'm n-not used to the s-sort of attention he gives me, and I-I'm kinda... I s-suppose, a little c-confused and worried. I g-guess I just... I d-dunno. Hear a-anothers opinion on h-him, just in c-case. Never t-thought I'd h-have to deal with this k-kind of thing.

You l-looked at the flask, y-yes? It's kind of l-low brow dangerous, but n-nothing serious, and it g-gives us a rare treat. We'd a-appreciate if you didn't t-take away the magic of it. P-Please?"

She had shifted topic rather fast, as she had gotten as good an answer on the eccentric inventor, as she were likely going to get for the time being, and had to think on things a little more herself. He were a sort of pushy, obnoxious stallion, whom had more than a few times made her feel a little mortified with what he said, but she trusted when Rising said his heart were in the right place, and that he were just very uhm... *Direct*. Which meant she had to thin about whatever or not she should perhaps try to give him a chance. Not something she had thought on a lot over the years, but Null had said that she wanted them to find a home, and for her to get a proper life. Finding somepony special were that, r-right? And this one showed a positive interest in her, regardless of what she did to his magic, so that were something.

Guess she just had to think about if she actually liked him too, but that required some more thought on her own part likely. It seemed the sort she had to figure out herself.

"And I- I m-mean, we both k-know that it won't be painless. He w-were very honest a-about that to big sis. But l-like she said. If it w-works, she don't c-care about how much it might h-hurt in the moment, or how l-long she had to retrain herself. It w-would still be w-worth it, in her m-mind.

He uhm... The c-cage you two w-worked on. Did it w-work, by the way? He s-said it were still a test. Talked a l-lot of big words about it w-with things said like *F-Failure rates*. Hopefully n-nothing bad happened?"

Edited June 17, 2020 by Blitz Boom

Pastel Heart · June 15, 2020

@Widdershins @Blitz Boom

Family, huh.

The only family Pastel ever knew was her grandpa. She didn't "always know" the warm touch of a families embrace. Seeing Jelly and her dad was odd to her, not that she'd replace her grandpa for anything.

She didn't really understand what was going on but Slimpsy was kinda important ish?

"Soooo is he a prince~? Like a runaway prince? Is your family like, super bad, Slimpsy?"

Windy Breeze · June 16, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Don't worry about me. You're way too important than me in this mission” Windy told her. As Sorrow was about to open the door, Windy stopped her “We should try to be polite” she said “Let's knock” she gently knocked on the wooden door and waited.

The door was opened and came into their view is a young stallion, who was surprised to see them. His face was full of bruise, even having one bandage on his right cheek “Oh, I thought all of everypony moved” he said “So, what are you mares doing out here in the middle of the night?”

Before Windy or Sorrow could explain, they heard another voice, this time from a young mare “Sandy, I told you not to answer the door. They could be probably one of those weirdos who tried to hurt you or the ones who screamed at my face!”

Edited June 16, 2020 by Windy Breeze

EQ_Theta · June 16, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Looks like you and Tomb get along nicely. By the way you described our options, it seems like the aerial tour is popular so I’ll take your word for it. Might give us some ideas on planning our evening route through the carnival.”

“Yeah; been a while since I got myself off the ground,” Sen jokingly added. “These wings aren’t good for lifting me off the ground. Much better for gliding but I have to climb something first before I could use them properly.”

Frankly, that was about as apt a description for longma wings. Some would brag about being able to take flight but in reality, it was more for slow descents. The forest doesn’t take kindly to fast flying, or flight in general, and if those wings could generate lift once upon a time, they couldn’t do so now. Without any open areas for flying, longma wings are better for slowing descents from trees or gliding long distances to avoid ground hazards. Wonder what that says about the next stage of evolution when the wings are all but obsolete…

Sen, however, would still keep Tomb Watcher’s words in mind and took the pony aside to have a quiet conversation. No way he was expecting someone to communicate with older longma but with the way he brought them up, it only got him thinking more about why they were exiled.

“Tomb, I just want to say thank you,” the longma quietly said. “You know, for what you did for the longma you mentioned. The longma are normally wary of outsiders but exile really takes its toll on them. I’m sure they appreciated you easing their worries.”

Blitz Boom · June 17, 2020

@EQ_Theta

On 6/16/2020 at 4:44 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Looks like you and Tomb get along nicely. By the way you described our options, it seems like the aerial tour is popular so I’ll take your word for it. Might give us some ideas on planning our evening route through the carnival.”

“Yeah; been a while since I got myself off the ground,” Sen jokingly added. “These wings aren’t good for lifting me off the ground. Much better for gliding but I have to climb something first before I could use them properly.”

"Gliding wings can still be a strong trait. If you fall from somewhere, it's like you have a build in parachute, so you'd be safe from damage. Sometimes that can be very useful if you're up high, or fall off a cliff.

Anyway, gimme a minute to prepare the carriage, and we'll get you up in the air in no time."

Whistling a little, Banshee spun around and began to use the typical unicorn telekinesis, to float one of the larger carriages over. One of those without wheels, and six seats, behind a seat up front. All of them appeared to be pony sized, and both spacious and comfy, with seat belts included, as a safety precaution. Nopony wanted to deal with health and safety inspectors. Such a drag it were to listen to them go on and on about health hazard, regulations, and on, and on, and- Urgh! Better to take care of it before they got a chance to start their moaning.

As it were set in place, Tomb were curiously taken aside for a moment by Sen, whom she didn't know what were thinking currently. Did he have questions about their transport? Banshee? Perhaps some concern that he didn't want his friends and sister to hear? A fear of height mayhaps?

On 6/16/2020 at 4:44 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Tomb, I just want to say thank you,” the longma quietly said. “You know, for what you did for the longma you mentioned. The longma are normally wary of outsiders but exile really takes its toll on them. I’m sure they appreciated you easing their worries.”

Thankfully, it merely turned out to be him wanting to say a few words in regards to her work with his fallen kin. A grave matter in itself, but not as gloomy as she had wondered if this might end up as.

"The longma I've met did indeed tend to be wary of others, but in our family, we learn how to show the dead respect, and interact with them in a way that makes them understand that we are there to help them. For your countrymen, it took time, but it were some I would gladly spend again, if I had the option, because I see nothing more worthwhile and beautiful, than the face of a poor soul light up when they finally see the other side, and goes on to whatever lies in the great beyond. There is a joy and serenity that can hardly be described, in seeing that final visage before they move on.

The exile were often what they wanted to talk about too, just to make you aware. It weighed heavy on them, and often being isolated and cut off from their kind, not only resulted in their deaths, but also their entrapment on this plane.

Please. If you ever have a say in your people's laws, let them know what the exile does to your kind. The poor souls were scared and alone, stuck because of fear and grief over what had happened. I understand your criminals must be punished, but please, find a more humane method than this. Let one of us talk to them if need be, so that we can show them what happens, and they can understand the misery such an action caused.

Even if we can, and gladly will, help the damned, I wish for nopony to be stuck in the first place. It's not a fate that anypony deserves."

She hadn't at first wanted to bring this up, but since Sen wanted to talk about this, it seemed as good a time as any to try and plead mercy with one of their kind. Grandmother told them that they couldn't decide what others did, and only try to deal with the aftermath as best they could, but Tomb didn't want to force anything upon anypony either. She just wanted to talk the case of the dead, in hope that the longma elders would perhaps understand the true depths of cruelty it were to exile one of their own. If it could save even one of them in the future, Tomb would gladly press this to some extend, long as it did not go to a point where she tried to enforce things. There were strict rules against that.

Whilst she were talking, the carriage were seemingly in place, and Banshee turned to look at the future passengers with gleeful eyes, and a big smile. Apparently whatever were going to happen now, were something to look forward to, for the effeminate stallion.

"Fair warning: It's going to be a little loud. Don't be alarmed, okay?"

Banshee would take a deep breath, and let out a shriek befitting of her name. The sort of short, yet harrowing shriek, that even made Omen feel as if some of the small hairs on the back of her neck were standing up, though she had no idea why. A strange reflex, maybe?

When it were over, something did indeed happen. Pale wisps began rushing in from the stable that the carriage had been in before, floating hastily towards the front part of said vehicle, where they'd begin to coalesce. Soon enough, there would stand not a simple piece of interesting looking, silver craftmanship, but a floating carriage, held up by pale lights illuminating from the metal. And in front, tied to the carriage with a glittering thread, stood a pale wyvern. A kind of smaller intelligence, lesser cousin of the dragons, that stood at a fairly average three meters long, and spread it's big, leathery wings to stretch them out before the forthcoming trip.

Banshee went over and started to pet the wyvern, who were somehow able to be touched by the odd stallion, despite the fact that the see-through nature of the creature, proved that it were still merely an apparation.

"Awh, who's our precious little girl? Is it you, Abacus?"

The wyvern let out a pleased, hollow caw.

"That's right, you are. Such a gorgeous little angel you are."

Banshee turned to face the group again after nuzzling the creature a little more.

"The carriage is about ready. Take a seat, or come say hi to Abacus if you want. Don't worry, she won't hurt you."

Omen wandered over pretty much right away, but just stood and looked at the wyvern, with her head tilted aroundto the left, whilst Rosa abstained from moving closer to the wyvern itself, and rather just stood and looked at the carriage for a bit. It seemed neither were going to make the first step towards associating with the creature properly.

If Sen or Lin would try, they'd find that the creature were corporeal, but somewhat akin to touching half-frozen jello.

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

@Windy Breeze

On 6/16/2020 at 6:04 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“We should try to be polite” she said “Let's knock”

Sorrow took her hoof back as she were told off, looking a little embarrassed at herself at her actions.

"Oh. Erm... Whoopsie, didn't think there. Sorry Breeze."

The area and everything were really getting to her it seemed, since she just outright ignored common decency out of nowhere. Grandma wouldn't be impressed with this, nor would her parents, though she were sure they'd understand somewhat. Considering how much out of her debt that the mare currently were.

On 6/16/2020 at 6:04 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Oh, I thought all of everypony moved” he said “So, what are you mares doing out here in the middle of the night?”

"Hello there sir. We came around to try and help with your poltergeist problem, but there seems to be a lot more going on with this whole thing than I thought, that's making this one tough spirit to deal with. Could we ask you some questions about what's been going on? Please? The more I know about Autumn, the easier it's gonna be to help her move on to the other side."

Sorrow looked at him concerned. The poor stallion looked like he had gotten some beatings in, likely from the poltergeist, whilst he had been stubbornly staying in his home. At least she'd presume it was his home. Would take some really crazy folks to go around looting in this area right now, that were for sure.

On 6/16/2020 at 6:04 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Sandy, I told you not to answer the door. They could be probably one of those weirdos who tried to hurt you or the ones who screamed at my face!”

"Nono, I promise we're not here to hurt you, scream, or anything like that.

Have things really gotten that bad around here, that folks have been yelling and hurting eachother? I could believe the poltergeist, but... Ponies? That doesn't sound right, unless there's a panic, or they got... Affected by... Ectoplasm... *meep*"

That was a scary thought that got into her head there, which were seen on her grimace as well. Ectoplasm were some nasty stuff, that got around when the spirits got really, really up in an emotional tip. Sticky and nasty to look at, but it also tended to infect the ones touching it with the emotions it were made from. Anger ones could cause some serious issues, even if they weren't the worst. Bloodthirst were a far worse, yet thankfully extremely rare, variant.

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

@Pastel Heart @Widdershins

"I don't think anypony's all bad. There's something good in anypony, you just have to look for it sometimes. Right daddy?"

Jelly looked up at her father with big eyes full of youthful innocence, repeating the very thing that he had taught her time and time again as she grew up. It brought a smile to the burly stallion's face, to know that she kept taking to heart the lesson, that he had once been taught by the mare who saved him from a life in prison. It felt like a legacy worth keeping, and by Luna, he hoped that she would be able to keep this ideal with her, and not have it crushed by one of the few creatures out there who really did seem rotten to the core.

"That's right. There's something good in everypony, no matter how bad it can sometimes seem. That's why we have to try and be patient, and give them a chance."

"Yeppers. I bet your family's like that, sir. There's lotsa good there, and I bet you bring the best out in them when you're there, since you're a real good pony.

It'd be cool if you were a noble too. Are you? Huh? I hear lots of nobles are kinda meanies, but you're not. Are you related to the princesses?"

Now both fillies were going on with this. Stargazer could say something, but honestly, he figured it didn't hurt for them to talk about things like this and it might calm the stallion down, if he had something silly like that to focus on, rather than something that seemingly terrified him.

Windy Breeze · June 17, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Sure ma'am” Sandy said “What do you want to ask about Autumn?”

Then, there was sounds of hooves coming from inside the house, possibly the wife. When she walk out, Horror is shown to Windy and Sorrow.

The mare, an earth pony like her husband had a broken nose, one wound on her midsection possibly received from a glass debris, and what seems to be ectoplasms used as makeshift bandages to cover more injuries, her eyes are auburn. Windy stared at the poor mare in sadness and disbelief Just how many injuries did she have? She thought.

“Wine, say hi to this mares. I don't think they're one of the residents who live here... Or the ones who stayed”

Wine turn to look at them. Her eyes widened upon seeing Windy and Sorrow “W-Wait a minute” she started as she approach them “Why is a Wonderbolt accompanying a pegasus whose grandmother is one of the most popular ponies here in Fillydelphia?”

Sandy lifted an eyebrow “What?”

EQ_Theta · June 18, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“If it were simple for the exiles to return home to talk about their experiences, the longma back home would’ve done something about the practice. An exile is an exile no matter what they did to get themselves booted, and no one would take their word because of that label; I’d know. But you’ve given me something to think about and I hope I could stop this from further hurting anyone else.”

The conversation got Sen wondering if he could have a chance to meet another exile, living or otherwise, to understand how it was for them. As much as he was a victim of exile, his experiences were his own and he might have been luckier than others. Finding Omen was the first, and a lot of things started falling into place. Even finding friends among ponies lightened his burdens. That might just be what the folks back home needed to hear.

Although there was more for the longma to say, he would be interrupted by the arrival of a wyvern coming to greet them. That, and the unexpected sight of a floating carriage. Lin thought the wyvern would be the one hauling the carriage with them in it; the creature looked strong enough to support the combined weight and then some.

Lin stepped forward first, slowly approaching the creature with an outstretched claw. As cute and docile as Abacus looked, this was a wyvern and could still be agitated from someone unfamiliar getting a little too comfortable.

“Easy there, Abacus. How are you doing? It’s, uh… nice to meet you.”

Catpone Cerberus · June 19, 2020

@Widdershins

Cerberus mostly ignored the comments, now remembering why he felt the need to hit something with a flyswatter, it was because he somehow knew that it was popular somewhere to dislike this floating thing that was following him, he didn't know where, just that he would most likely never end up there.

"No, I don't have claws, though I would probably be worse climber if I did." "I mean, these hooves are amazing, I still have no idea how they work, even though I have them, all I know is that they kinda just stick to anything I want, and it's not just me, it's everypony in Equestria who have hooves." He explained while holding one of his front hooves up, and even though he was now walking on three legs only, it didn't seem to affect his balance in any way.
--------------------------

@Blitz Boom
Ruby was bit puzzled by Leviathan's first comment because she had assumed it had been obvious that she wasn't talking about that anymore, but she didn't correct her for obvious reasons.

"Since I can't see inside myself, I can't be fully sure, but based on the amount of pain, it's healing the speed I expected it to." she informed, she didn't add anything regarding the books because it was clear that Leviathan tried to get away the previous topic and most likely connected the books to it, even though the only relation between it and the books were that the events lead Ruby to find said books.

She then suddenly got up "I think I'll take a walk, you going to join me?" she asked, but didn't wait for the answer as she started walking the moment she started the sentence.

If Leviathan was to look at Ruby's resting place now that Ruby wasn't laying there, she would be able to see the scratches on the stone that Ruby had made while talking earlier, they were surprisingly deep for being in a stone, and if she looked at Ruby's claws, it didn't seem like they had been damaged much by the stone, not that they were undamaged either, but lot less than one would expect from someone scratching stone.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
After few seconds Nada followed Ziggy to the kitchen, locating herself to a place where she wasn't in the way due to her size.

She looked through the book for a moment "Some kind of cupcake could be good, they are pretty basic right? I don't want to go too special before I know the basics after all." she didn't really have opinions on what looked good and what didn't since she hadn't eaten enough things to make such judgment.
--------------------------------------------------------------
"I know I'm one to talk but Princess? not really the name I would give it" was the first thing Scarecrow said as things calmed down, maybe joking wasn't exactly the right reaction to two creatures almost being eaten, but there was a terrified pony still around and he wanted to make sure he didn't seem like a threat. He kept on digging himself out as he spoke "Besides isn't the prince usually the one who's the frog." sure his knowledge on fairy tails may have been outdated since he didn't know when he had learned that, but he was trying to relax the mood, even though based on appearances he was probably the one causing the most dread.

When he would eventually get out a way or another, he would proceed to clean any left over goo off himself before getting near anyone.

Blitz Boom · June 19, 2020

@EQ_Theta

Abacus would lean into Lin's claw, and rub against it with her spectral feathers, whilst letting out a somewhat pleased chirp. Wyverns were as prideful as their more evolved cousins, yet if you managed to work with that, and reign in their temper, they could be surprisingly gentle creatures.

"Isn't she simply adorable? Abacus have been in our family for generations, ever since our great grandfather once tamed her. She wasn't ready to move on with him though, when he passed, so we take care of her until she is ready to rejoin him. He's going to be so proud of all the good work you've done when he sees you again, Abacus. Yes he will."

"There is a little more to the story than that, like how nopony else can make him listen, but those are meaningless semantics. If everypony is ready, we should board, and get ready to fly."

Tomb had somewhat gotten the answer she had had hoped for before, from Sen, but time would show what would happen from that end, as sadly, it seemed to be out of his claws. Maybe this would do a little something though, which is what hope she'd cling to, and pray to the ancestors that things would eventually work out for the better.

She'd wander over and once she were near enough to the carriage, a small ramp would be pulled over from the stables, by Banshee's magic, and hooked up so that there were easier access for non flyers. As such, Tomb could take a position in the back, as the tourists needed the more front'faced seats, far as she were concerned.

With her a little further away, Shrimp dared to slither out of his hiding spot again, and would go up to Lin's head to get a better look at the large, spectral, dragon-like creature that were interacting with his caretaker.

He'd start letting out a few curious chirps, which for once, actually seemed to get a response that appeared as if they were understood fully, when Abacus suddenly rose her head and looked at him. Then she too began her own series of sounds, which were somewhat more hoarse and at times, hiss based, but considering Shrimp kept answering back with his own sounds, and neither seemed to harbor animosity for the other, it appeared as if they were having a friendly chat.

Trying to show off a little to her, Shrimp would rise up a little, and utter the name of the one he were currently situated on, as best he now could.

"Lihm!"

n response, Abacus would raise her head, puff out her chest, and slowly let out a haunting tone of her own.

"Roooo!"

The closest she could come to saying Boo, as the B sound weren't fit for her vocal cords, nor general intelligence. Shrimp seemed impressed none the less though, making his little noodle dance and chirping away in a pleased manner, like there were no tomorrow.

"Awh, isn't that precious? They're making friends. Who is this little bunde of joy, Lin?"

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

@Handsome Changeling

"Is everything ready?"

"I triple checked, so it should be. Imagine what might happen if we were wrong?"

Two gasps were heard in the otherwise quiet theater. The building had seen better days, but it were near decommissioned when the Cheshire hive had been allocated the living space, and frankly, they had done a great job at fixing up the place. Reinforcing the walls, replacing the roof, cleaning it from top to bottom, etc. There were still a a lot of work to do repainting the outside, replacing some of the wiring so that all the chandeliers and projectors would function, a bit of piping, etc. But overall, the place were functional, comfy, and on track to return to its former glory. Just with a bit of changeling aesthetic added, such as their general bile-based way of reinforcing the walls being the primary way they had ensured it wouldn't collapse. Long as one didn't scrape the paint too much on the inside, that shouldn't be possible to see, but the outside had its clear marks. At least until they had gotten the painting done, which they hoped to do within the next week. Just had to wait for the right shade of burgundy to be back in stock in enough quantities, which had to be special ordered, but it would all be worth it in due time.

"A changelings life can be hard. All from the start. We're unwanted by everyone."

A somber, saddened, feminine voice were heard singing through the theater, moments before a projector turned on, and lighted down on the large, circular stage, surrounded by the four rows of elongated benches, that made up for the seating in the Cheshire Theater. Perhaps not the most original name, but she had wanted to be blunt and honest about who they were, and what they were, to make sure it did not seem as if they were hiding things for the locals. The more open and agreeable they were, the better for their cause.

"Always seeking our place. Too scared to show our face."

More projectors lit up, showing the setup on stage, which looked like a small replica of the public general idea of a changeling hive. Yet still with no one on stage.

"But now-"

"Yes now-"

"Let us show you hoooooow-"

Two heads poked up from small lids in the replica. A male and a female changeling with light green eyes, a big smile on their shiny, onyx faces, and an increasing voice from them both as they started what were beginning to sound like a more cheerful musical number than what had been presented such far.

"We came to belooooooooong!"

As the unknown voice uttered the last word, the hive had several more lids that suddenly popped open, and a half dozen changelings - including the first two - would jump out on stage and land on different angles, facing the currently non-existent audience, with a swirl and a hoof on their chest, whilst the originator of the unknown voice from before suddenly just appeared to blink into existence on top of the replica, just as her last word were sung throughout the room.

Her voice were impossible to miss, as it almost roared throughout the room, betraying her - for a changeling queen - somewhat small body. Yet the tone were what would really grip the audience most of the time. She had a wide range, going from the more saddened, somber tone from before, to others, such as this more cheerful, upbeat tone, all with a strong pitch that didn't waver. One of Cheshire's best talents, along with most of her changelings, though the few who didn't have a strong singing voice were not forced to sing either, or got joined in on a chorus, to better hide things, in case they still wished to take part.

As for the look of the changeling queen, she stood in shiny red shoes, with glittering specks of gold on them. A long dress in varied red colors stood firmly upon her, which hid the orange belly that her other changelings could proudly be seen sporting.

The other changelings one by one, clockwise from the first female that had set hooves upon the stage before, would begin to have a rather subtle, orange flare engulf them briefly, as varied costumes began to show themselves on their person, representing an exaggerated look of some of the local performances they had taken part in, before their kind suddenly got accepted into the general lands of Equestria, provided they did not cause harm and followed the law.

Once the last had transformed, still stood bowing to the audience that were not there, the queen up top would let out a squeal of joy and start clapping profusely.

"Oh yes yes yes! That was Perfect everyone. We finally got the first scene down to a T."

Widespread cheering were heard among the ten other changelings on stage, whilst they started to bounce around, and let go of their costumes once again. After a month of rehearsals, they were finally over the most tricky part of their grand performance, which would explain to anyone showing up how the Cheshire Hive had come to be where they now were. The whole show were not done of course, but they had the lyrics mostly done, the set props completed, and just needed to make sure they got everything done correctly before attempting to show it to the mayor, who would have to vouch for it's legality and credibility, as they were using some faces and events that they needed permission slips for. Which they had so far, but he still wished to check off on things personally.

In all honesty, he probably just wanted to be there at the first showing of this massive undertaking of theirs, but Cheshire would gladly indulge him. He had been as kind as his position allowed, so she had no issue working with him, and giving a treat such as this if he so wished for it.

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

@Windy Breeze

On 6/18/2020 at 1:08 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Sure ma'am” Sandy said “What do you want to ask about Autumn?”

"Well, it's kinda more about things that happened here. I think we've been seeing some memories played out, and they make it look like Autumn's really mad at Razor, and there's something about some foalnappings? Do you know anything about either of those?"

Then came the wife, and Sorrow's attention went elsewhere, as she started to wander towards the injured mare with worry in her eyes. Not only at the large amount of wounds, but also, she were using ectoplasm as a wound closer? That stuff could be real dangerous! Sure there were ways it could be done, and if it had gone inert, it were more or less harmless, but still. How bad were things that this were an acceptable option?

She opened her muzzle, about to ask if the mare were okay, when suddenly, she started to blurt out something that none of them had apparently been expecting.

On 6/18/2020 at 1:08 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“W-Wait a minute” she started as she approach them “Why is a Wonderbolt accompanying a pegasus whose grandmother is one of the most popular ponies here in Fillydelphia?”

"You know grandma?"

Sorrow were as surprised as anypony. Sure she had thought that her grandmother had been memorable to the others in the town, but her? She had been a little foal, happily bopping along with her cousins to hear grandmother talk, with a smaller skull around her neck at the time, as she couldn't carry a big one back then. She hadn't even had her growth spurt back then, but apparently, she had stuck out somehow in the flock. How strange. She always assumed Banshee would've been more noticeable than her.

"A-Anyway, that means you know what she does too, right? Grandma sadly isn't here, but I came in hoping I could. Things are just... Way outta hoof here though. I can probably still help, but I need to know what've happened here, or I can't get through to Autumn.

I'm more concerned about you right now though. You're not looking good, and ectoplasm to cover wounds... That stuff's dangerous. Did Autumn do this to you, Wine? Is she keeping you trapped here?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

Seeing as he conversation were thankfully moving away from the incident of Ruby's past, Leviathan would slowly start to calm further down too. Having a subject just glossed over were usually something that would annoy her, but due to the current situation, where she thought the two things were connected, she were honestly fine with it. Made it seem as if Ruby wanted as little to do with the subject as she did. Likely more, right?

Instead they went on to something more relevant and important for the present: That being Ruby's health, which seemed to be steadily improving it sounded like. A rather vague description given though. Yet if it were proceeding at expected speeds, that were probably as good of a prospect as any, as Leviathan for example, thought that tomorrow might be the day it had healed up almost, or fully.

"That's good. Means there's no sorta infections messing it all up.

And yeah, ai'll join you. Just lemme put down the usable part of the hide on your pile, and I'm coming."

It wasn't perfectly handled, the hide, but it just had to last for a day or two more, so it should be prefectly fine as it were. Just had to add it in there, tben follow Ruby as she... Huh, those were some deep claw marks.

It had been hard to ignore those, as she got in and put the hide down on the moss. Seemed to be pretty clean, though yet again, deep cuts. Not a whole lot of dragons she knew of that did this. Most just tended to crush stone, snd those clawing in it, usually couldn't go this deep nor would try unless they had something happening that made them want to do so. Generally, a distraction from pain, or an aggression outlet.

Laying down the hide, Leviathan would turn around and take flight, to catch up to Ruby as soon as she could. When she did, she'd land next to the dragoness, and unless something more distracting were going on, would ask her a question.

"Are your branch of dragons perchance more tough-boned than normal? Saw the stone in there when I were putting the hide in, and that sorta damage on the stone should've left a broken claw tip somewhere.

Tough bones can be harder to heal. Might end up taking longer, if that's the case?"

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"Let's make chocolate chip muffins then. They're real easy, and most ponies likes chocolate. I'm sure it's gonna be yummy fior sirens too.

Hmm... Making a few lemon zest ones on the side too though. Serenade likes those, so maybe you will too?

Okay, think you can cut up the chocolate to begin with, while I go find the flour and stuff?"

Ziggy would place a knife, a cutting board, and a big ol' slab of dark chocolate in front of Nada. Afterwards, she'd cut off a row, then chop them into smaller bits, whilst holding the knife with her right hoof. To some it were easier to hold it with their muzzle, but ut were more dexterous for her to do this when it came to do quick chopping, and other coocking things in general. Plus, less of a spit and drool chance. That were always good.

"Just try and do it like this, but probably slower and more careful, so you don't end up cutting yourself by accident, okay? And just try and make them these kinda sizes. If don't worry if you don't hit it exactly, it doesn't matter all that much how big they are, long as they're small enough to get into the cupcake forms."

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

@Catpone Cerberus

"Well duh, that's why she's called Princess, and not Prince. Silly monster thingie, hehe."

The terrified adventurer were not feeling better about things as she saw the strange, pumpkin-headed creature first talk to the encapsulated skeleton creature, and then start wandering over towards her. In fact, she began to try and scurry further back, whilst waving her knife feebly towards the oncoming creature.

Considering Anomaly's response were just to giggle as she were cut into, seemingly no worse for the wear, despite the *wounds* leaking what were hopefully just pumpkin juice, it were safe to assume that this were way out of this mare's league.

"Hehe, it tickles. Here you go funny pony, have another pokey. You can use that the next time something bad happens."

Anomaly's tail end would split, and rub together to cause a snap. At which point, a grabber plant would rise from the dirt, wrap around the mare, and- Kiss her on the side of the head, before spitting out a machete with a hilt that'd quack whenever the blade impacted something. The plabt would go away right after that, and the mare would pass out. Seemed like things had just managed to be too much for her.

"Awh, that's no fun. I didn't even see her hit something and make her spooked about the quacking noises.

Oh well. You two are still awake. You wanna have fun? I'm Anomaly. Making nature fun one mutant at a time. Sometimes more than one. What fun is there in being predictable, right?"

"...I... Greet you, Anomaly? I am Lyriel and this is Scarecrow. It's... Interesting to meet you, and your princess.

...Please don't have your fun with us. I don't want to end up corrupted."

Edited June 19, 2020 by Blitz Boom

Windy Breeze · June 19, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Are you asking about the Missing 36 Incident?” Sandy said “Yes, most of the ponies living in Fillydelphia know that incident. It was the worst case of Foalnapping that has ever occurred in the town Fillydelphia' history” his frown became deeper when Autumn and Razor are mentioned “Autumn and Razor? Wait a minute, Autumn is angry at Razor? Come on, Autumn doesn't have any reason to be mad of her husband, in fact, Razor was the reason why me and Wine met”

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"You know grandma?"

“N-No exactly, but I have heard stories about her” Wine said “heard stories about from friends and reading Fillydelphia's Most Famous Mares. I went asked some of the ponies living here to get further details about her and that's how I i found out your a granddaughter of Banshiee... is that correct?”

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"A-Anyway, that means you know what she does too, right? Grandma sadly isn't here, but I came in hoping I could. Things are just... Way outta hoof here though. I can probably still help, but I need to know what've happened here, or I can't get through to Autumn.

I'm more concerned about you right now though. You're not looking good, and ectoplasm to cover wounds... That stuff's dangerous. Did Autumn do this to you, Wine? Is she keeping you trapped here?"

“We... ran out of bandages. We gave most of our medical supplies to ponies who decided to stay, but we didn't hear anything about them since the fog came and the shadows.... Sandy decided its a good idea to use this... ectoplasms” she then frowned “Why are you talking lies about Autumn? Didn't you know most of ponies living and formely living here, including me and my husband respect her for her generosity and kindness?” her expression soften when Sorrow talked about helping “Really? thanks but-”

“Everypony, get inside the house!” Sandy suddenly yelled, pointing at fog behind Windy and Sorrow. Emerging out of the fog are ponies of all ages; filly and mare, colt and stallion. All of them are black which made them look like shadows, their eyes that has colors of a maple leaf during fall stared at the four ponies with hatred in their eyes as they yelled in unison in corrupted voices.

“You will feel my agony, my shame, my guilt, my regret, my anger, my sorrow!”

Windy gasped “What the hay!? before she was pulled inside the house by Sandy, who decided to clamp down on her tail and pull her along with Quill inside the house. He turn to Sorrow and said “Get inside, Ms. Ghostbuster!”

Edited June 19, 2020 by Windy Breeze

EQ_Theta · June 19, 2020

@Blitz Boom

“Aww… you’re a real softie despite your fierce looks. I guess that’s your charm.” Lin leaned in closer and gave the wyvern a good rubbing, now being a little more confident around the creature.

“That must have been quite the story when your grandfather first told it. I find that a little hard to believe but seeing Abacus here makes me want to hear about it.”

Sen moved in closer but wouldn’t delay the rest of the group before the tour started, even gesturing to Lin to join him in the carriage. More than anything, this would be one of those things that the siblings would want to share with the longma curious about the world outside the forest. Any more stories and they’d soon consider writing them down, but those wouldn’t be as fun to narrate. One of these day, they’d try to gather their fellow longma around the fire and regale them with memorable experiences, hoping to win them over with their tales. It might even get some to loosen their stance on isolation.

The tour would need to wait, however, for a little friend decided to meet the spectral creature. Lin was alerted to the sound of chirping, then a successive back-and-forth between the two creatures. The longma couldn’t help but feel proud of Shrimp making friends. Perhaps being wary of strangers wasn’t entirely true.

“This is Shrimp, a refraction and our little friend with a fiery spirit! He hatched from an egg while back and he’s been traveling with us ever since.”

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