open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,634]

@Windy Breeze

6 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

The name of the dish is Swampy Green Soup, a spinach soup with tofu “I remember eating some green stew similar to this one, but I can't put a hoof of its name” she said, thinking about the stew she ate several years ago before moving to Equestria “I also found another food named Rainbow Macaroni but... Too colorful, as if its existence is just to attract the eyes of the public”

"I always just figured Rainbow Macaroni got popular because Rainbow Dash did. It's not bad though, just a bit too... Zesty for me, I guess? It's hard to put a word to it, but it's just a little too much of something else than what I'd like.

Your soup choice looks more appealing anyway. Never tried tofu, but I guess that's the white blocks, right? Looks sort of like marshmallows."

Marshmallow soup... Sounded like something foal would make, after melting a lot of marshmallows and sugar, after the parents didn't pay enough attention to keep the little one from the stove.

Not that this spinach dish looked like something she'd expect from that. Nono, she were just mulling over a soup made of marshmallows. The spinach soup looked homely and delicious. She could almost taste the warm, nutrient-filled meal just warming her muzzle, by the look alone.

She'd show off the picture of the meal she had found afterwards, to show what had drawn her in. The bread weren't there, but it were probably because it would have looked wrong on the photo, or something. She didn't know how they focused this, but it wasn't important either. The soup itself were, and it had almost made her lick herself around the muzzle.

"If the food looks even half as good as these picture's, it sure looks good. I bet it tastes amazing too."

She wasn't keeping a low voice at any point whilst talking, but would do so normally. She weren't being mean towards the food thus far after all. She praised it, in fact. Only somewhat middling comment were about the macaroni, and that were just her not feeling like it tasted the way she'd prefer. The words Windy had were a bit harsher, but it weren't bad really. You'd have to be rather petty to get all up in hooves over something like that.

6 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

“Have you found anything to order for yourself?”

“No, I'm not hungry” Tepe replied nonchalantly.

"Just let us know if you change your mind, okay Tepe?  For now, I guess we can order our meal, Windy. Just have to wait for a free waiter to walk by. Must be one eventually that'll come around, though I bet they're busy. Must always be something to do, in a place like this."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
"Caring of any kind can be used against you, thus making it weakness." Ruby argued, though that would be all she would say about that if Leviathan didn't continue on the topic, being a manipulator herself, she knew that one of the most effective ways to get other to do what one wants is by threatening something or someone they care about, or by blackmailing them, but that worked by similar idea, so having such weakness was not a pleasant idea for her, though there was also bit of fear in the reasoning,  because she didn't know what it was like to feel grief, but she had seen what it does to creatures, having been the cause for some, so she didn't want to ever feel that way, being scared of its effects on herself.

It would be easier to get Charir to see emotions as more positive thing at some point, because while he had had same upbringing as Ruby, he was just a kid and didn't have over 100 years of violence and such behind him.

Ruby didn't push Leviathan away, but she twitched a bit before tensing up for a moment when she brushed against her, she tried to act dismissive about it, but anyone who knew anything about such things could easily tell that she secretly didn't hate it, and that she was just trying to act like she did. Ruby was one of those who didn't know, and it wasn't purposeful refusal of affection, it was more caused by her not knowing how she felt about it mixed in with the learned expectation of pain any time anyone touched her, this combination made her more subconscious parts go 'what's this, is it a threat? weird feeling, is it pain?'

Her tone of voice also told about the uncertainty inside her, even if only a bit "Smash things? Do you know somewhere where one can do that without annoying herbivores coming to poke you with spears?" she didn't necessarily care what the ponies thought about her actions, but she would rather not became wanted in Equestria, especially not before she got her treasure from Spicy's vault.

Meanwhile Charir looked at the two dragonesses now confused, but it wasn't clear what about the situation confused him, Leviathan's actions, Ruby's reactions, or the situation as a whole, but with the confusion there was bit of happiness, he may have no idea what was happening, but at least he didn't need to worry about getting killed for no reason if Ruby let Leviathan that close without as little as threatening her. 

------------------------------------------------
Nada just quietly chuckled as Ziggy had her moment, it was endearing to see and if she was being honest, she kinda envied Ziggy, if only she could feel so happy about every little thing.
"Yeah I have, though funnily enough i have yet to meet any.....average pony, not trying to call you two weird of course, but from what I have understood from your own words, neither of you are what most ponies would call average." a Dryad, animals, Ziggy, Berry, immortal princesses, a dragon, other siren, a ghost, a shark-pony....she wasn't which was weirder, they all being around, or the fact that she happened to be the one to meet them all, and none of them were hostile. Sure there was the one foal that could be considered 'normal' but she didn't really consider him a friend, just someone she happened to meet. "But I guess it makes sense, since I don't think that any common pony would be wiling to become friends with me just like that considering the history." 

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Scarecrow again stayed quiet and just nodded at Lyriel's explanation, speaking only when she addressed him directly again "I can carry her, I have moved heavier creatures." one thing that lack of feeling for pain also did was him not feeling the weight of anything he was carrying, he would of course be able to tell that he was carrying something, but for him, feeling-wise, there was no difference between carrying Crow and getting crushed by a tree, not that he had any muscles that would feel pain even if he could feel pain. "But by bringing her to town do you mean the edge of town like I usually do, or in the town." 

[Rising Dusk 27,800]

@Blitz Boom

"Normally that would be the case, but that's thinkin' with the mind of an Equestrian.  Not everypony outside our borders are going to have our same values, sadly.  Our initial investigation showed that the dark wizard used rifts to transport his minions here to Manehatten."

"No causalities from the assault.  Some minor bumps and bruises, but nopony worse for ware.  The school building will need some repairs though..." Starbright brought up, glancing in Flare's direction.  The cowboy that knocked pony sized holes through most of the walls on his way from rescuing foals hiding in the bathroom on his way to the gym.  To be fair Minty furrowed plenty of the floor with her own attacks against the spiders.  Didn't help the spiders liked to exploded when destroyed either.  "Most the damage came from the mental shock of somepony just attacking our peaceful lands really," she relented.  "The city will take time to recover."

Magma appeared by distracted by the entry of their bosses, something over the years the officers had become so use to they were hardly fazed.  Minty was the same size as Princess Celestia, minus the Alicorn status of course and wings.  They got along far too well that she might as well had been a third sister, but alas, she'd have to settle for her status as a direct descendent of the pre-Equestria royal unicorn families.  Bash took note of Magma's attention on Minty was more than what one would expect.  Not that he blamed her, Minty had this kind of affect on many ponies.  The silent stallion remained so.

Still red in her cheeks, Tussle calmed herself down and let her horn extinguish now that her office was in a more organized manner.  At this time the two ponies took notice they had an audience.  The officers didn't usually take this kind of notice, but three of them were standing by with a fourth unknown pony, seeking their attention.  The gawking red pony sure did catch their attention.  Starbright managed to be the first to clear her throat and speak up, "Ahem, welcome back you two.  Tussle, Captain, this is Magma and she'd like to make an appointment to talk business practices with you."

"How lovely," Minty smiled.  "Of course!  I can put something in the books.  Now that the city has calmed down a little, I have some time for some input on improving our office," Tussle replied, happy for the distraction from everything that had been happening the last week.  The secretary pony trotted over to her desk while Minty more elegantly walked past all those present to her own office in the back.

 

Staring in the mirror took Rising back to Harrowmark.  Not that he'd be able to forget it to begin with.  The weave that translucently clung to the mirror was steeped in the ethereal shimmer common in the magics he'd seen in Harrowmark thus far.  Old, grizzled, but well practiced techniques painted this spell.  A spell not spun in haste, but refined, focused.  Not a signature he'd seen yet, but the outer threads that served as a battery to stabilize and keep the spell going sure did.  The caster of the magics are at least in league with Thistle.  The sharp light magics of the high priestess were hard to mistake coming from the dark land.  Following the threads around to discern the purpose and tricks to the spell he identified three targets of the tracing.  Himself, Lily and The Captain.  Rising and Lily made sense, but he was intrigued to find Minty in here as well.  Their method for tracking was something Rising hadn't seen before, but it appeared linked to their magic.  Base on the scry spell he made with Lily, somepony in Thistle's group likely cast the spell.  The question is why.

"High Priestess Thistle and her group are currently tracking myself, Lily Monkshade and The Captain," he explained, Cork and Gold Mane exchanged concerned looks.  Igniting his horn he brought out his wisps and poked at the spell seeping through the mirror.  Delivering a magical equivalent to knocking on a door. 

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“Alright then, Omen. If you believe I can catch a second fish, I’ll give it my best shot.”

Seeing this second fish move closer, Lin would continue to see what would happen if she got the ball bobbing further from her. It looked like it was working for now, and so she would keep at it, keeping her attention on the fish as it moved closer. If she could just get it moving toward her, this would make for a good attempt. Sen’s lesson resonated at this moment; patience combined with skill will make for a good reward. 

For now, Lin would watch Omen and the other hopefuls who wanted to catch the remaining fish, observing their methods and studying what she could about their less than stellar attempts. Good thing they were content with trying their luck on their side of the pool. There was a bit of fun to be had while observing others; their reactions and their techniques say a lot about how they approached the situation. Perhaps the same can be said of the remaining fish, an elusive one by the looks of it. 

As for Sen, he’d move over to the board and collect his bolts before letting Rosa have his turn. A nice, consistent row of 5 points got the longma wondering if he should try getting that as well. If he could do that and improve his aim, he might just try his luck with three bolts right at the middle. 

“I’m sure there are some good folk in Equestria who could try their hooves at welcoming an exiled longma, maybe even putting them on the right path…”

“I know it’s not the same… being marked wrongfully by the law and being branded a criminal under the law. But having everyone else make up their minds about you before you can show them otherwise is not a good feeling, especially when they make their thoughts known to you.”

That thought had the longma return to a time when the villagers were throwing stones and rotten fruit at him, Lin, and Omen. It seemed like a lifetime ago but the memory never goes away. Though his wing healed, he’d never forget the feeling of having it torn by the jagged edge of a stone. It felt fresh, like happened just now, and he would law down the crossbow for a moment to rub the wing as if it was just wounded. 

“I can already imagine you being a good teacher to others. I mean, you’ve done that with me, Lin, Omen, and Elder Ghilan. I’m sure you’ll get a chance to teach what you know to those who want to learn from you. And if you need help with that, you can always ask me, even if that help comes in the form a student who can encourage you.”

The longma smiled toward Rosa before picking up the crossbow. This talk, and this game, they were very relaxing. It did wonders to get some weight off the chest, and it seemed to have also helped Sen steady himself. From there, he’d get two bolts on the 6 point zone, and one more on 7. It was a slight improvement, but that was better than regressing back to a lower score. 

“Hey, let’s make this a little more interesting. If this contest of ours looks like it’ll end in a draw, how about we throw in a little side bet? I’ve got nothing in mind for now, but I’ll think of something.”

[Blitz Boom 4,634]

@Rising Dusk

On 12/19/2020 at 2:07 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"Ahem, welcome back you two.  Tussle, Captain, this is Magma and she'd like to make an appointment to talk business practices with you."

As her name were brought up, Magma finally snapped out of her trance, and took a few, shaky steps backwards, whilst blinking profoundly. The look on her face were one of brief, yet profound mortified embarrassment, over the sudden realization of the way that she had acted.

It would not last long, even if the blush on her cheeks did take a little more time to dissipate, and she'd need a few more seconds to find her words again. At which point, the others had finished talking, and the focus seemed to be on her. Or at least towards what sort of reply she may have towards both the nature of her inquiry, and her less than stellar first encounter, with Minty.

"I... M-My sincere apologies, Captain... Ah yes, I forgot to inquire about your name before this meeting. I hope you can forgive this most unprofessional approach. Both regarding preparation, as well as my... Initial reaction. In my circles, the only ponies of size and elegancy comparative to you, which some encountered, were Princess Celestia herself. I have never encountered one such as her myself though, nor thought I'd see one reminiscent of her either, yet I always imagined meeting a tall mare of some stature would be less... Breathtaking, I assume the correct word would be in this situation? You have quite a radiant aura of power and elegance, which were quite a bit more stunning than I were apparently prepared for."

Magma did her best to explain and compliment the captain, yet at the same time, avoid using words such as *near perfect* and *a radiant goddess*, since her brain screamed at her that she'd sound crazy if she did so, regardless of what she might think here in the moment. Maybe later too, as Minty did really catch ones eye. Or hers at least. Though it might fade over time, judging by the reactions - or lack thereof - of the detectives around her.

During the entirety of what she had to say, she kept her eyes on Minty too, despite her feeling as if she wanted to look away, and crawl into a furnace to hide. She should at least show this much respect for the captain. Especially considering how abysmal her approach had been thus far, when it came to show her the respect which she were owed. Which weren't as easy, as she had thus far, not inquired about, nor been told, the name of the captain. A rather large short-coming currently, she'd say.

"My name is Magma Del Ray. A former researcher from Center Zero, and currently doing self-studies into the nature and effects of elemental lifeforms. Your detectives helped me from causing a minor stir in town by accident, and whilst talking, it were brought to my attention that your organization could use more in the way of funds, and space. Potentially advantageous deals too with local vendors, to increase cost efficiency, without sacrificing needed materials, or safety precautions. I have quite an extensive knowledge of the Equestrians system when it comes to grants, seeking funding, making deals that could benefit both vendor and customer, and so forth. So I wish to offer my help with this, as your detectives most graciously helped me with the unfortunate situation from earlier."

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 12/19/2020 at 2:07 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"High Priestess Thistle and her group are currently tracking myself, Lily Monkshade and The Captain,"

"Wait wait wait. That was High Priestess Thistle?! But I said-"

First she looked baffled, and then Grave's expression turned towards realization, of her having done something really, really dumb.

"...Yeah, I'm definitely not going back now."

In fairness, how were she to know that this were the high priestess herself? They never introduced themselves, and they had acted pretty hostile when she popped out, to find out what were going on. It were probably still not a good idea for her to have opened her muzzle, and insulting the ghost regardless, but she didn't know this one were important. And with what she had said, it were probably for the best if the high priestess and her never met again. Might be that she'd be more forgiving of things than Twisted were, but Grave did not see a reason to risk it, and considered it merely further evidence that she were better off, staying here in Equestria.

"So... Why are they tracking you, or the others? Do you think it's bad? I don't really know much about the High Priestess, so I dunno what she might be thinking."

On 12/19/2020 at 2:07 PM, Rising Dusk said:

Igniting his horn he brought out his wisps and poked at the spell seeping through the mirror.  Delivering a magical equivalent to knocking on a door. 

With this action, he'd get a response alright. The magical equivalent of someone rudely telling you to *Get lost*, from the other side of a door. If Rising continued to knock though, he'd eventually be presented with an open link, where a gruff sounding, older stallion would directly tell him to bugger off, since he were meddling with delicate spellwork here. Just in crude tones. At first at least, until he abruptly changed tone. It appeared that Thistle might be listening in, and weren't pleased with his outburst.

If Rising followed the spell, he'd find that it were a tracker, and that all of the connections made, were anchored to a different pony, than this one. Depending on how well he could track at this distance, he might be able to identify the magical markings, as belonging to Scythe. Which would finally give him some answer as to what the marking were on her, as she laid unconscious in the wagon. She were currently used as an unconscious vessel, though if by her own admission, or if she were forced, were impossible to tell from this alone.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 12/19/2020 at 3:51 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Alright then, Omen. If you believe I can catch a second fish, I’ll give it my best shot.”

Omen did not respond, as she were busy with her own target, whom were currently doing its best, to get away from the elongated tongue, and stay out of the grip of others. Though the fish would eventually have to move more southwards, towards the middle, as several began to meet up on the location said fish were swimming in, and tried to catch it. A bit too many, to make it fun for the fish, so there would be needed a little migration. As there were a cage in the middle that it could hide in, the fish did so, and looked around once in there, looking for those who might wish to ensure its capture.

While Omen circled around that with her tongue, and tried to find a way to go at this right, Lin's patience would bear fruit, as her fish would be lured closer to her, and would end up going right into the trap. A yoink at the right time, and she have the wriggling fish caught by its tail, gasping for water up in the air. It'd have taken a little over two minutes unfortunately, but it would still not take away that she could get a fairly good price at this point. Even if Lin did not get one from the very top shelf, that Omen were aiming for. She just needed her target caught somehow. which she would shortly thereafter accomplish, when she popped as much of her tongue inside the cage as she could, and finally managed to grasp hold of the elusive champion fish. She'd also still have some of her tongue connected to the cage in the middle however, so her victory were marred a bit by her having to work on getting herself unstuck, but it did not take away from things too much. She just needed a little time to work with, whilst Mildew swam rapidly away from what had been assumed to be a safe haven. Now Lin had that one to catch, and about 50 seconds to work with, which meant she had to be more active than passive, if she wanted to catch that one.

On 12/19/2020 at 3:51 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’m sure there are some good folk in Equestria who could try their hooves at welcoming an exiled longma, maybe even putting them on the right path…”

“I know it’s not the same… being marked wrongfully by the law and being branded a criminal under the law. But having everyone else make up their minds about you before you can show them otherwise is not a good feeling, especially when they make their thoughts known to you.”

"Which is where the Equestrian system of offering second chances, should prove enticing to potential future exiles, I'd say. They would be willing to listen, and then if there are issues, attempt to help with that. Prolonged incarceration is a rather rare thing here after all, though I will not lie and say that there are not a certain amount of pre-assumed judgement. Especially when it comes to a non-equine race. A certain degree of patience will have to be employed by the longma at first when it comes to that, before the general population are properly aware that the threat your kind makes to them, are minimal in scale. That you are not predators - or at least not of the kind which actively hunts equines - are a good start though. Mysticism and potential predators tends to be the things that makes them most wary."

He'd observe the improvements of Sen's shots. Only a few rounds to go for them, and as it stood now, it appeared as if Sen would prove the winner, as his abilities here were rapidly improving. More so than his own, which were rather impressive, as this weapon were unfamiliar to Sen. This may prove to be less of a final game of the bunch, than at first anticipated.

His own bolts would fly soon thereafter, impacting two sizes and a five. He had at first though he had moved enough to the side, but the third arrow landing in the five proved to him that he had miscalculated some. His next round had tro improve upon this to make a mark, though it would have to be impressively so, as it were their last. They had spent a buit more time with this game than anticipated.

On 12/19/2020 at 3:51 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I can already imagine you being a good teacher to others. I mean, you’ve done that with me, Lin, Omen, and Elder Ghilan. I’m sure you’ll get a chance to teach what you know to those who want to learn from you. And if you need help with that, you can always ask me, even if that help comes in the form a student who can encourage you.”

The longma smiled toward Rosa before picking up the crossbow. This talk, and this game, they were very relaxing. It did wonders to get some weight off the chest, and it seemed to have also helped Sen steady himself. From there, he’d get two bolts on the 6 point zone, and one more on 7. It was a slight improvement, but that was better than regressing back to a lower score. 

“Hey, let’s make this a little more interesting. If this contest of ours looks like it’ll end in a draw, how about we throw in a little side bet? I’ve got nothing in mind for now, but I’ll think of something.”

"The sentiment is appreciated. I promise that were I ever to teach you, I would refrain from bringing a large, wooden ruler to smack down on a table to rattle you, if you appeared to lull off. Regardless of its proven efficiency.

As for the contest itself, I am currently ahead 2 to one, and there are yet one game more after this. I would think that a tie would be somewhat hard because of it, though it could well be that we had equal points there... Yes, however slim, I admit there is the possibility of a tie, and in that case, I do have a proposal to make: We ask a local to show us the game which would seem to be a challenge for us both, which could not end up in a draw. The loser of said round then, would have to endure something memorable. Perhaps... Yes, I do believe most of these festivals have areas where one can get face-painted. How does it sound that if a winner is decided that way, the loser will then have to decide a painted mask the other would have to wear, for the duration of the carnival?

The use of a local, would be to have an impartial source, though we could also ask Lin or Omen, if you'd prefer. I am certain they could remain impartial. Omen because she does not seem to understand the concept of rigging a game, and Lin because I believe that she would be equally amused by either of us having to look silly for the rest of our evening. Being ones sister, does not mean that she would not be amused by seeing you appear painted on, as much as it would be entertaining to gaze upon my face, were I to lose.

Furthermore, to lessen the time we spend here, I propose that the next game, we decide it not by the full five minutes, but by three shots. Two practice rounds, and then a singular attempt, as we have spend long in here, and I worry that the others may be somewhat bored by now."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 12/19/2020 at 9:50 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Caring of any kind can be used against you, thus making it weakness."

"And being alone can make you exposed, and easier to take down by a devoted group, or stronger opponent. There is no perfect situation here. Either you're taken down by hubris, or compassion makes you thoughtless. I personally believe it better to have some in your life, that gives you something to fight for, but that doesn't mean I can't see it have flaws."

It pleased Leviathan to not be pushed away - or more accurately, flung away - by Ruby, from this show of affection, though she could tell that Ruby did not enjoy this. She didn't even need to watch her to be certain of it, as the larger dragoness tensed up, and didn't exactly return the affection by say, putting a hand on Leviathan's head.

However, she did surprise the older dragoness, by not retaining the tenseness, nor audibly say something against this affection. Perhaps Ruby were more receptive to this than she had first thought? Intriguing to think, though she wouldn't push her luck further right now. She had already pushed it quite a bit by doing this, and even if she didn't hate it, Ruby were new to these kinds of positive emotions. So Leviathan would have patience, and just try to slowly introduce more things. A hand here. A smile there, those sorts of things.

She'd admit to perhaps test her luck a little, by lingering a little more than she had at first intended. But in fairness, Ruby had some really lovely scales to rub against.

On 12/19/2020 at 9:50 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Smash things? Do you know somewhere where one can do that without annoying herbivores coming to poke you with spears?"

After she'd let go of Ruby, and heard her respond to her inquiry, things became more normal and down to earth again, which likely suited Ruby well. Things had been a little touchy-feely now, and they could use a good romp to get back into the right head space.

"They don't value everything. Certain rocky quarries are less than useful, or some places with monsters. And while I were around in Las Pegasus, I heard of this quaint little place, apparently filled with chimera, and other monsters. Quite a trouble area, that's being patrolled around by the guards, to try and deal with whatever tries to break through their defenses.

I didn't much care to go there myself, but I think we're all in the mood to let off a little steam, and they won't mind us causing trouble, long as it's on the right side of the fence.

It'll be fun. I'm sure we can find some timberwolves in there for Charir to smash to tinder too, if nothing else seems to suit him. I figure him finding something to demolish, will help on his confidence a little too.

And don't worry about the chimera. They're nasty things, and extremely hostile. I don't know anyone who'd miss it, if a few suddenly went missing."

This should prove a bit of fun for Ruby, which were also why Leviathan had a big grin on her mug, as she emphasized the last word of her sentence. A hostile race, which she'd actually be thanked for demolishing to a certain extend, should prove a spot of fun for the younger dragoness.

It wouldn't be as simple if she took down all of them of course, but the ones hammering at the fence, and causing massive trouble? No equine would shed a tear for them. Except for a few crazy ones, but they were, as mentioned, crazy. Their opinions were not all that valid.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 12/19/2020 at 9:50 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Yeah I have, though funnily enough i have yet to meet any.....average pony, not trying to call you two weird of course, but from what I have understood from your own words, neither of you are what most ponies would call average."

"I'm not. I'm a half-blood zebra and pegasus, who underwent hormonal issues, and had to grow up in the hospital because of uncontrollable growth, which can cause all sorts of health issues. And I'm one of tripplets. I'm pretty special, and that's perfect for me. Being all regular and boring just sounds... Well, boring, right? Uniqueness is what makes us who we are!"

She'd do a twirl in the air, and spread her front hooves, as if she were prepared to throw around some sparkles. As she weren't Pinkie Pie though, that sorts magical party powers just wasn't there. The sentiment were though.

"Huh, I wondered how you got a medical license that early on, without looking like a high brow, seriously brainy mare. Guess growing up and living the life, would explain things."

Ziggy would nod enthusiastically, once again showing that she were as happy as could be. Few things really brought her down, and when they happened, she'd soon again find some sort of positive thing to focus on, to bring up her mood. Life were just too short to feel down about things, in her mind.

"I'm not as special as her. Been through some rough spots because of what I know, but I'm mostly normal. Just more informed than the poor, common puppet, who doesn't know all the ways the world is being controlled around them."

In truth, she were probably the craziest of them, but good luck making her believe that. It'd require shattering her entire world view, which were unlikely to happen. Especially since anypony telling her that it were all fake, would in her mind, just be another part of The Conspiracy, out to silence her.

On 12/19/2020 at 9:50 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"But I guess it makes sense, since I don't think that any common pony would be wiling to become friends with me just like that considering the history." 

"Then you get all of the special ponies as friends, and make a party full of the most fun kinds of creatures! See? You're gonna have the bestest of best group of friends."

"Well, some good words from the regular pony wouldn't be bad, but I'm sure some of them will come around eventually. Just think of the common pony like a cat. When something new and scary gets into their lives, they'll observe at a distance for a while, before approaching to test the waters. Just don't do any sudden movements, or push any of them into a bath tub, and you'll be fine, Nada."

Gross over-simplification, but it felt both right, and rather funny, to say in the moment, so she'd stick with it. Ziggy seemed to snort a little laughter out behind her hooves too, so that were a vote for it being okay.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I will leave that decision up to you. If you feel the most comfortable leaving her at the edge, then you are welcome to do so, and I will find others within the town, to direct their attention towards this issue. I do not wish to force you to step over a boundary, which you do not feel comfortable traversing. It is not a way one should treat a friend."

Regardless of how Scarecrow felt about that designation, due in parts to how he were not emotionally able to repay in kind, Lyriel would not remove that marker for him. After what they had been through, and considering their shared roles, as guardians of this forest - albeit from varied angles - she could not see him as any less. And as her friend, she would listen to his opinion, and respect it in full. And when it came to the matter of him entering town, he had already given an opinion on it earlier. If that stood, she would respect that, and take it upon herself, to direction attention to this matter, and thereafter hopefully, get some answers out of this vile griffon, who had attempted to steal Vivi's eggs.

The statue would be where they left it, so transportation should be fine. And as for the walk, the forest seemed calm for no, so they may end up having a nice, quiet walk towards town. What happened from there, were up to Scarecrow himself.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom

Tepe nodded “Sure” he look down at his stomach and rubs it with his hoof. Nope, not hungry.

Windy licked her lips upon seeing the food Sorrow is showing them “Mmm, that also looks delicious” she told Sorrow as she went to busy herself with her own flyer, her eyes widened with surprise and joy when she went to the dessert section. Lifting her head to look at Sorrow, her eyes sparkling in excitement, and a long drool forming in the side of her mouth Do ou want to order blueberry cheesecake ice cream?” she asked.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“I… gotcha!” 

With just a good tug at the right moment, she snagged a second fish. The longma picked up the fish and inspected it, before holding it up in the air to show to the booth’s owner before tossing it back in the water. It was a good feeling, being able to catch a second fish, but she wouldn’t celebrate just yet. There was some time left, and that meant she’d be going after the same fish Omen was in the middle of trying to catch. She hesitated for a moment, wanting to watch and see what would happen if she didn’t intervene, though she eventually relented. Being a tad further away meant she had to cast her line in the others’ direction if she wanted to have a chance. 

By then, it was a matter of seeing just who’d find success. Maybe casting the line close to Omen meant that the fish would find itself swimming in Omen’s direction. Maybe it would go the other way? As a saying went: “let the rain fall where it may.” 

Meanwhile, Sen would prepare to loose his next three bolts, finding that he’s getting a little better with each attempt.  No matter what he said about the crossbow’s unwieldiness, it was starting to feel a little more natural. Then again, it could be a fluke that he’s getting some decent shots in. He’s nowhere closer to the middle, but there was still some time to try. Unfortunately, the first two shots would make their way to a 4 and a 6. That first shot really got the longma grinding his teeth. 

The last attempt would fare better as he’d land on a 7, with the bot’s tip *this* close to an 8. Not quite the improvement that Sen was hoping for, but it was something to try and surpass. Once Sen heard Rosa’ suggestion and had some time to mull it over, he’d collect his bolts and stand by the side to give his take.

“Face paint? Sounds like the design to could look either silly or awesome, but I’m sure you’re going for the first one. Alright, then. Funny paint it is! I’m sure Lin would take the opportunity to get a laugh out of that! And she’d definitely want to keep a record of it, especially because she was asking about photographs earlier. Whoever’s gotta get painted will probably never live it down!"

"Better yet, let's get her and Omen to decide what gets painted on the face! That's gonna be a great motivator for us to do well in the next game.”

Sen chuckled at the thought. That was a good reason to really give it his all in the current game and the next one. Once Lin found a place in their home to put that image up, visitors will pretty much comment on it nonstop. And once they see Sen’s face, the longma will never hear the end of it.

[Blitz Boom 4,634]

@EQ_Theta

As luck would have it, Mildew were swimming away from the cage in the direction where there were the least amount of beings. Which were were Lin were currently standing, as the varied beings playing this game, were gathered in groups in other places. This presented her with a potential winning situation for this, if she played her cards correctly.

If she made use of the ball to redirect Mildew's trajectory, she could potentially then use the board to scare the fish from one direction, and have it swerve right into the waiting line, where she might be able to grab it, if she were quick, and didn't hesitate. Other options were there too of course, but Mildew would not fall for a simple ambush. It were a highly reactionary fish, mostly aware of its surroundings. If Lin wanted to catch her, she had to use distractions, and directly get Mildew into the line. Or perhaps use a net, if she were quick with it. Maybe even try and lure Mildew into one of the narrow, half-pipe pathways, and then seal one end off with the piece of wood.

She had several options, but limited time to work with, and a fish that were not an easy one to get hold of. She'd need to put that head of hers through the test, and see what came out of it.

Regardless of how it ended though, about a minute later, they'd both be approached by the owner. After she had been over and help untangle Omen's tongue from the cage, with the help of a long stick, that she usually used for poking tools back towards the edges. Unless she had to draw them in, in which case the rubber hook on the other end were used. Which were also needed, with how much Omen had gotten herself tangled in, though she'd be free soon enough.

Anyway, they'd both be given the option to pick their well deserved prizes.

If Lin had not caught Mildew, she would be able to pick from the third shelf. Which would contain some prizes ranging from a wooden carved replica of a fish.

A plush of a tree, with the markings of a moon on it, roughly the size of a foal's head.

A well carved out flute, in darkened wood.

A bopper with a worm-like hook, and some fishing line.

A set of three dice, with the prime colors of her fish.

A hoof mirror, with an image of two breezies, dancing around with a thestral, carved in the backside.

Or a bathtub toy, looking like a trio of fish on a line.

If she had caught Mildew however, she'd get options from the second shelf, which had things that looked better, and seemed to be more valuable as well.

A plushie, around one and a half times the size of the one on the third shelf, looking like a purple siren.

A box of crayons, in primarily dark, and silvery colors.

A pan flute, carved in local black wood, and varnished for good measure.

A small statue, looking like a fish jumping over the number 2.

A deck of cards, with the kings and queens having depictions of varied fish.

A rust-free, metal medallion, with the logo of the Moonlit Thicket on one side, and on the other, a carving of it, and two other logos, placed around a central one. That likely representing the three towns, and their main seat of power. Not anything high end, but a rather nice souvenir regardless.

And then at last, a notebook, with varied pictures at the top of each page, depicting varied settings within this town.

As for the options Omen had, it were not many, but it were rather high quality looking things. Had to give folks something to strive for after all, though she had no hesitation in picking what she wanted. One thing had caught her eye to begin with, and she wanted to get that one, without much need to glance at the other things.

It was a beautifully carved, wooden picture frame, around the size of a melon. It were made of black wood, varnished, and had some silver lines poured into the bottom, with the writing *The Moonlit Thicket: A night to remember.*

It also had a voucher for a picture to be taken, as it were meant for a group of folks to gather up, and have their evening immortalized. At least as long as the picture would hold, which depended on those who made it, of course. As it were one of the top prices, that were likely from somepony good. One would think so at least, as shoddy work, would reflect badly on her stand, and that would be bad for business.

As Omen picked that one, the mare would pull out a box from underneath the counter, and take one of these frames out of there. She'd then put it in a bag, and hand it towards Omen.

"Always more that just picks out the fishing knife, but it's good to see that somepony have an eye for real treasure when they see it. Memorial Maker is about two hundred meters down towards the west, and he can get a picture sorted for you. If you hit the green candyfloss machine, you've gone too far.

Now, even if you didn't get 'em all in time, you still have the choice of some good prices, ma'am. What draws your eye to it?"

On 12/21/2020 at 4:03 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Face paint? Sounds like the design to could look either silly or awesome, but I’m sure you’re going for the first one. Alright, then. Funny paint it is! I’m sure Lin would take the opportunity to get a laugh out of that! And she’d definitely want to keep a record of it, especially because she was asking about photographs earlier. Whoever’s gotta get painted will probably never live it down!"

"Better yet, let's get her and Omen to decide what gets painted on the face! That's gonna be a great motivator for us to do well in the next game.”

"I get the distinct feeling that if Omen were to chose, she'd see if the one who were to lose, could be painted up to look like Discord. I am not certain about Lin, but something tells me that she would end up getting quite creative."

Yet another reason to attempt to not lose. Having a picture immortalizing this evening would be lovely. Yet if he had to stand there, with his face painted as something foolish for may years to come, it would look quite odd. Though he'd do it if he lost. He were a stallion of his word, and if he lost, he would take this hit to his pride with honor. Though if Sen lost, he may instead have something to chuckle at for decades to come. They would see who'd in the end, get the last laugh.

...Probably Lin, since no matter who lost, she'd end up determining the degree of laughter that would come from this. Omen would likely cave to her suggestions, so in the long run, Lin would be able to laugh quite substantially.

However, if he were to stop that from happening by winning this game, then that would be it. If they ended up on 3-1. Sen could not catch up, even if he won the final game.

"As for now, I accept the challenge in full. Let us see who shall win, and who shall become an amusing sight to behold."

He'd rise up the crossbow, shoot, and get three more arrows somewhat cluttered up. On a 6, then a 5, and at last, a 7. Not a bad finish, considering how poorly he historically did with these, but he'd require more practice to do well enough, to make it useful outside of here.

"A fine finish, yet my point total still stand beneath yours. I accept your superiority with this bow as well, Sen, and recognize your victory."

The owner would come in as he spoke, and say that it were time for the final discipline: Blow darts. This one using a board like the one they had seen with the darts, and with the owner giving the short intro on how to do this. Namely how to put in the dart, how to hold the pipe, and then how to properly shoot it. Which he got into a perfect bullseye as well. This pony had some fairly impressive skills with these things. Fortunate that they did not need to compete against him, or they'd end up getting painted from snout to tail tip.

"Alright then. Let us then see who will emerge victorious, Sen. Remember: Three practice shots, and then the real one. Let us finish the practice ones first."

Rosa would get ready, and fire off three darts. The first landing on a 4, then the second on a double six. The final would get close to a triple nineteen, but would miss, and end in a simple nineteen at the end. A mixed result, but he found it tolerable.

"Hmm, not the worst I could have done, though it seems I am more rusty with this than I thought. Or my memories of it are clouded due to the toxins infected upon me back in the day... No, definitely just rusty. Professor Gristle used to laze these when he taught us, and it went fine back then. It appears I have merely been specializing for too long.

Ah well. These were mere practice rounds. It is your turn to have yours, and then we shall see who wins in the true shot of ours. Preferably one of us, as surely we cannot keep maintaining this stalemate between ourselves."

Rosa would stand back, and indicate with his hoof, that he'd like for Sen to step forth now. It would be an interesting game, to see them both attempt something, where they had so little time to prepare. 3 to practice, and then one true one, for 4 shots in total. This were going to be a fairly interesting little session.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

"Blueberries and cheesecake? In ice cream?"

Small lights seemed to sparkle in Sorrow's eyes, as she perked up by the mere sound of that. Cheesecake were great. Blueberries were delicious. And combining that in ice cream? How could you not get excited over that idea? Though even if it were ice cream with those things, that would still be good. It were still a delicious bundle of goodies.

The two of them might not need all of those calories in their diet, but it had been a long day, and they had saved a lot of beings, both dead and alive. They were allowed to have a reward!

"Sold! This is gonna be really good, I think."

Legion apparently mumbled something to her, as she'd then go over to patting their head a little. The big grin and jolt of joyful energy however, did not leave her. Why would it? This were going to be a great dinner, and things were mostly okay. Even if Tepe still had to eventually get an explanation that he'd hopefully accept, and that there were still a gang, and spirits on the loose here in Fillydelphia. But if you kept focus on only the negative, you'd never be happy, and despite her name, Sorrow liked to be joyful.

Long from here, in a small house, Needle would however, not be filled with joy. Rather, she were marked with determination, and a stone cold face, as she prepared her *private clinic* in her little hideout. Something she had prepared, in case of emergencies, or general treatment for those in the gang, as it were not too good if wanted criminals came to the hospital. It had not been as simple a thing to get the varied medical equipment and medication though, but she were resourceful. A few raids here, some fraudulent pads there, and a couple of times she had made use of varied goons, or apt professionals, to acquire things in her stead. Either bluntly, or stealthily. Occasionally by buying them off underground vendors, though she preferred not to have them used, and only send others in her stead, to avoid identification, in case said vendors were found. She had not gotten to where she were now, by being careless, and she did not intend to falter now. She were in far too deep at this point as it were anyway.

Not that she minded, of course. She found joy in this organisation, as there were a certain degree of admiration, and kinship she felt towards the boss, and the varied ways in which he ruled this gang. It were quite exquisite, and it well earned her respect, and loyalty.

To get back to the task at hoof though, she should keep focus. There were much still to be done, and no certainty if she'd later be needed to fix wounds, or not. If not, then her time would technically be wasted, but it were a lesser annoyance, than having to deal with say, another case of gut wounds. It got annoyingly filthy.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom

Not only was Sorrow the only to be surprised by the existence of a wonderful cake ice cream dessert. Tepe gaped in shock when he heard Windy say about this, and when his initial shock wear off, he stood up and yelled in excitement “Oh, I WANT SOME TOO!”

However, he only attracted some attention. A stallion nearby gasped in shock when his glass of orange juice cracked, he started at the cracks and growled exasperation, frustration why such a very expensive yet fragile thing broke for no reason.

Windy looked at him with a forced smile, not noticing no one is looking at their direction, but are looking around in confusion instead, or at their plates/glass “Tepe, keep your voice down” the zebra respondded by looking at the diners, giving them a sheepish smile

Edited December 26, 2020 by Windy Breeze

[Rising Dusk 27,800]

@Blitz Boom

Magma didn't need to work all that hard to get Minty's attention.  A theatrically natured pony like herself lived for praise, admiration and flattery.  Evident in her disappoint at the lack of applause in Harrowmark from the specter pony audience during her battle with zombie ponies.  Memories she already wished forgotten.  On to the next show.  Minty's size was abnormal among the ponies in Equestria, but it did help her regal appearance, even if not so graced with the status of an Alicorn.  So many more accessories she could add if she had a beautiful pair of wings.  Her pride as a unicorn would prevent such a pursuit however.

Idly fanning herself with her hoof while Magam laid on the star struck praise.  "Charmed, Magma Del Ray of Center Zeron," holding out her hoof for an elegant greeting.  The lights in the building suddenly went out and a second later a spotlight shown on Minty who had stuck an elegant center stage pose.  "I am Minty Lis Snow Delice, Captain of the Office of Magical Investigations.  Countess of The Glistening Gallery.  Calamity of Cloudsdale~"  Her expression changing with each title, striking a different pose more fitting of the meaning behind each one for emphasis.  Tussle promptly slapped her forehead, "Please stop taking pride in that title," she groaned, interrupting the long string of titles that was soon to follow.  The spotlight flickered as Minty lost concentration and the building lights came back on.  "Tussle darling, even you must admit it was an impressive feat," Minty shot her snoot upwards with a hmph.  Rolling her eyes, Tussle ignored Minty's pout.

"A pleasure to meet you Ms. Del Ray.  Curious that we've had two cases from Center Zero ponies in just a week," Tussle tapped her chin in thought, all the more up to speed on the Boom siblings from Detective Rising and the attack on their workshop.  "I'm not the most prepared for a meeting at the moment," motioning down to the dress she was wearing to be more presentable to the Princesses and the long day that accompanied it.  "Can I put you in the books for tomorrow morning perhaps to meet with us?"

 

"Lily is the mother of one in the their company.  Why they'd track myself and The Captain, is a mystery," Rising of course had a guess, but more that needed discovered.  They were a bridge to Equestria and possible alliances that could be formed.  Or worse, they were thought of as a threat that needed to be kept tabs on.

The caster of this spell wasn't the most polite individual, but Rising has dealt with worse.  Even in Equestria, criminal weren't the most respectful of sorts.  Taking in the spell's signature and rather impressive mastery of his own spell.  Most certainly a pony that has practiced magic for an age.  Not that Rising would consider what he was doing as meddling, yet.  But for the pony on the other end to open a link was impressive enough on its own.  Reconnecting to lingering spells as a good step above the average.  Following the spell deeper out of the corner of his mind back to where it was anchored, it was a lot easier to see the full spell tapestry than through Lily's scry.  The caster was too neutral to determine any kind of harm or intent behind the spell.

"I wish to speak to Thistle," Rising's voice was distorted being linked to the spell, like taking into a well.  A couple wisps poked at the mirror, connecting a part of the empowering enchantment Thistle had on the spell to allow her to join the link in as well.  The detective didn't want the older stallion to have to play middle pony.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

Lin didn’t have much time to try and catch Mildew, though she could see the little fish moving in her direction. Her strategy needed to switch from passive to active, but there wasn’t enough time to study the creature. She’d try tossing the ball from earlier to see if she could get it to swim closer to her before yanking her rod. Sadly, it would not suffice, as her attempt got the fish to swim to the side and eventually had the longma attempt to try and toss her line toward it. 

As expected, she was nowhere close to getting her third fish by the time the game ended. Who would’ve thought being bested by a fish was part of the night’s festivities? Certainly not the longma. She would go with the booth’s owner to see the interesting rewards. Two fish wasn’t bad from a beginner, and it was still something to be happy about.

“That flute looks pretty appealing. Is it an ornament or could I use it as an actual instrument? I admit, if it’s real, I might want to learn how to play it.”

Meanwhile, Sen was ecstatic to play with some risk. Admittedly, a low risk wasn’t really as fun as playing for keeps, but there wasn’t really anything to bet on. Maybe keeping his dignity could be a reward, but it wasn’t fun winning something he already had. In his round of games, Sen won, and he was feeling a little better about that compared to the dart game earlier. With the score now tied, it was down to a brief round with a blowpipe to decide who became the target for humor.

“Oh wow. Definitely didn’t expect this to be the tie-breaking game.” The longma examined the tool given to him, recalling something back from his childhood that didn’t seem likely to be brought up again.

“I remember the hunt master using this once to scare a predator away. A Timberwolf, I think. Hard to believe it could be done but it was likely the dart more than the tool itself that scared it. I never got a chance to learn how to use this, though.”

Sen would ready himself, taking a breath in before trying the blowpipe. The first dart wouldn’t even make it to the board, landing way short of scoring anything. The second dart was better, landing at a 2, while the last would see more improvement with a score of 5. At 7 points, the longma was nervously chuckling at the prospect that he’d be getting his face painted. 

“Well… the practice round could have gone better. May the better player win?”

[FanOfManyShows 396]

@Blitz Boom

"I am done, I will head on my own way, unless you wish to follow. But I have a kingdom to rule. Now let me get you power Centaur."

He stepped out of Tartarus, and just as soon he created a crown and set it on his own head,
giving a brief wave before teleporting away, taking Tirek with him. Placing them in a forest, seemingly nowhere special.

"If we are to get anywhere, you need the power of a sufficiently powerful pony to start. I know just the one."
As he said this, the place became clear, he spread out his arms, and the trees with them.
The mass of trees caving over with a great crash, revealing a clearing.
"Wait, they left?! I sensed their spells here-"

Suddenly Skall found himself blasted by a fireball, sent back into the broken trunk of tree

Chariot lowered his hoof, Astral poking out her head from around a tree
"Stay back, this dragon is greater than me."

"This is the one."
Skall said, silently looking to Tirek, while Astral hid herself with a quick invisibility spell.

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

"How may I help with the graves?" 
Rose conjured a shovel, throwing it to the ground
"Aside from making tools. I can't exactly sense the dead like you."

Rose was already thinking it may be good to just unearth all the bodies, instead of searching through each grave-
but she also saw that Emerald may know more than her.

[Blitz Boom 4,634]

@Rising Dusk

On 12/26/2020 at 10:51 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"I am Minty Lis Snow Delice, Captain of the Office of Magical Investigations.  Countess of The Glistening Gallery.  Calamity of Cloudsdale~" 

"That is uhm... Quite the interesting collection of titles, Captain Delice."

Magma did not wish to speak badly of the enthralling captain  but at the same time, that last one were... Concerning. Calamities were not widely thought of as good things, and Cloudsdale served a generally important role in Equestria, so it being threatened were not good. For most, anyway.

Those who believed that the town were actually ruining natural weather patterns, to a point where an inevitable, meteorological disaster were bound to happen, would likely enjoy the machine being broken.

Magma did not have a stake in that particular, scientific race, but she did care for the lives lost. Hopefully, Minty had not been the kind of calamity that had resulted in increasing the national death toll. At least not on innocents.

The prolonged talk though, made it somewhat clear that whatever had gone on, were not as bad as the name first implied. Surely they would not joke about it if it were after all, no? That would be illogical, unless they were all morally bankrupt. Which thus far, Magma did not find supporting evidence for.

On 12/26/2020 at 10:51 AM, Rising Dusk said:

 "Can I put you in the books for tomorrow morning perhaps to meet with us?"

Her mind was blown again shortly after though, which eorked well in derailing her attention. And this one, even made some smog stream gently out of her ear for a moment, before she composed herself enough to answer.

"Y-Yes of course, I can reschedule for then. Whatever suits you the best, Captain Delice.

But I have to ask with some urgency about what you just said, and this I cannot wait to know: You say you have had to deal with more from Center Zero? The only one that would be, should be the one who are redistributing our work, after the attack. It is the only survivor I am aware of, but I have not been able to track them down, nor find out who it were.

I implore- No, I kindly ask, if you would be so kind, as to tell me whom it were, and if they are still in the area? I must fjnd out what happened that day, even if it is second hoof accounts.

Were it Professor Radish? He always seemed able to survive most things. Or Doctor Phobia? She spent so much time out of town, she may have been able to run off in advance."

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 12/26/2020 at 10:51 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Lily is the mother of one in the their company.  Why they'd track myself and The Captain, is a mystery,"

"Hm... Maybe it was because you were both there? I mean, if they wanted to track you here, it'd kinda make sense to track everyone that were near you. If you got away, then they could find the others, and try to track you down like that? I dunno. Just sorta makes sense to e, as this is pretty far from Harrowmark."

A shot in the dark from her side, but so were the attempt at contact from Rising shortly thereafter, and that hit as well. Not in the best of way to begin with, of course, but the recipient were not generally a nice pony either. Not his job to be in general, and were it up to him, he'd keep ignoring the one poking at him like this. Yet, it were not his decision to make, and as such, he would stay back as the invite came in for Thistle to join in on the conversation.

"I'll ask her, fancy boy."

Well, almost stand back. He would send a message back from the open channels, as distorted as the one sent back, though the voice were rather gruff. It also sounded as if it came from someone woefully unimpressed, and somewhat annoyed at Rising. Though in fairness, his magic were being used as a *phone line*. It were a little irritating.

"...𝕀 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕗𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕜 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟, 𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕤𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕣. 𝕀 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕘, 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕣 𝕨𝕖 𝕨𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕔𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖. ℙ𝕖𝕣𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕤 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕒𝕝𝕤 𝕨𝕖𝕒𝕜𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥."

Thistle's voice would come through soon, and Rising would again find himself conversing with the old spirit. As for the one whom they communed through - both of them, as technically, Sickle were the direct link - he stayed silent for the time being. He weren't overly interested in sticking his hoof into this hive.

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

 

@Windy Breeze @Kujamih

"What the- Blitz! Don't play with those."

Molotov wandered out of the fortress of a workshop he owned, seemingly looking for somepony, and did indeed find the one he were looking for. Outside of the reinforced workshop's walls, on the scorched dirt that surrounded his property, outside of the paved path going towards the entrance itself. A small filly, tinkering with a load of varied, electrical looking contraptions, whose purposes were unknown. Considering what others may know of the Boom family, it were probably some sort of experiment, beyond their understanding. Probably best to stay clear off it as well, as Blitz in her short time, already had a reputation for causing things to explode. Generally on purpose.

"I'm not playing. I'm gonna make these all shine and make the bestest display possible!"

The little filly giggled wildly, and connected a few wires with her horn, before the older stallion had much of a chance to do anything. He were still rather far away, and though she could hear his voice, that did not mean that she were responding to it that much. And frankly, it did not help that he did not think it an emergency, as this were an untested prototype, without the oomph to really do anything, wrapped around what seemed like scrap from some of his other experiments. Probably harmless, but still. She should respect his boundaries and rules, which meant not taking these.

"You don't even have a gravity dispenser, or a power source above krench level seven. You're gonna zap your coat off, is what you're gonna do. Now come on. That stuff belongs in their boxes until it's tested right, sis. And you certainly won't get it done he-"

Blitz flipped a switch, and Molotov's sentence were cut in half, as the experimental source seemed to actually wake to life. And not just that, but dispense all over the scraps, and causing varied sparks to emerge from the edges. Which then turne into lightning, as Blitz moved away, to get a better look at things. Fairly interesting really... Until the lightning turned dark, and the air seemed to crumble around the haphazard construction, which made her curiously look up at her big brother, who shook his head in irritation.

"Great, you tore a hole in time and space. It's great, great grandma Jittery Boom's hoofwork all over again. Get inside, and find me a Renzhenfield Wrench Number 5. Gonna have to tackle this before it goes critical, and we loose a good few meters of the property to Celestia knows where."

Not that he'd go close. Hay no. He were gonna throw the wrench in there, and cause the thing to implode on itself before it went too far, and then burn the schematics for his prototype. Anything that could mess with time and space, were forbidden knowledge, as it were far too dangerous if it got widespread.Best to leave dimensions and gates to the princesses and their chosen.

And then as she ran in and started to rummage for this wrench, he started to hear moaning from the portal. Yep. This were most definitely not getting better. Probably good that the defenses were online on the workshop, so whatever got near, would be in trouble. And if it tired going into town, well... Good that he kept some things in his belt that worked to deal with aggressive things, eh? Though he'd likely still hear from the neighbors about this. They liked complaining.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

Oh boy... This were going to be hard to explain to Tepe and Windy. Or well, Tepe at least, since Windy should get the signs from dealing with the previous situation.

Yet somehow, despite the cracked glass, and other signs, it seemed they did not notice it? Windy acted as if this were only a noise issue, and Tepe were seemingly in denial about things too. So she didn't need to explain things yet then it seemed, which were a gift. Sorrow got the feeling that after this outburst, just from joy, having his world crushed would make Tepe react in a far more forceful way. She'd have to be more gentle with this in time, than she had originally thought.

"Accidents happen, but let's just try and calm down a little now, okay? There's a lot who wanna eat in peace, and it'd be sad if we were asked to leave, yes?"

She felt Legion stir around her neck, but they remained generally silent. Yet this outburst certainly made them more wary, and prepared to flare up if need be, in case Tepe started to cause more issue. Others might not see him, but Sorrow and Windy were visible, and they might get the blame in time, if it continued.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 12/26/2020 at 12:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“That flute looks pretty appealing. Is it an ornament or could I use it as an actual instrument? I admit, if it’s real, I might want to learn how to play it.”

"It's 100% functional, and well crafted locally, I might add. Ain't gonna break unless you go and try to saw it in half for some reason."

The mare would pick a box from beneath the desk, and open it in front of Lin, to reveal a bundle of these flutes, backed into bark casings. She'd take one from the top, and place it gently in front of the longma, before unwrapping it fully. Beneath it were one of the flutes she had seen, but looking fresher, as this one were not out for display, but had been carefully kept tied up and ready, for a potential winner.

"You have a good eye too, for picking this. Not as flashy as some other things, or for the littlest ones, but it's a fun thing to practice with, and get a feel for. Hard to get past some proper flute play, and not stop up. You have any sort of previous musical experience with any kind of flute, or is this your first?"

On 12/26/2020 at 12:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I remember the hunt master using this once to scare a predator away. A Timberwolf, I think. Hard to believe it could be done but it was likely the dart more than the tool itself that scared it. I never got a chance to learn how to use this, though.”

"The darts themselves rarely do much. It is mostly down to whatever is coating them that does the trick. Though timberwolves can at times be somewhat timid. It may have been that, or some sort of smell, or poison that did the trick in scaring it away. They do react negatively to certain smells, and I know of three poisons that will do well in causing them to be scared off, for varied reasons. A few more which will cause actual harm too, but let us not dwell on such things currently."

Rosa would silently observe Sen's round, then prepare himself for his own, actual shot. It had gone better for him than Sen, but he had seen quick improvements from the longma before. He did not rule out that things may well still end up in his favor.

On 12/26/2020 at 12:53 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Well… the practice round could have gone better. May the better player win?”

"Indeed. May the stars smile upon us."

Lining up, he'd clear his head, and shoot. Though even as it left the pipe, he knew it were not where he wanted it to go. He had stepped wrong down as he shot, and he could feel it. Which resulted in him hitting at the edge of the 11 marker, scoring him rather low, and not even on a double. This may end up being rather trivial to beat, but they would see. His own part had now played out, at least.

"...Unexpected, but there are still points beneath this. Let us see where it leads."

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

 

@Califorum

The sound of beakers clinging went through the forest, within a small area of the mare wandering through. A sight that stood out in this green landscape, as her dress were a noticeable, yet slightly faded red, and the flowing white and pink mane did not match well with anything here either. Even for a pony in this forest, she were standing out, and clearly were not local. No wild life had seen her before, nor would any of the local residents, of which likely only Zecora were aware of her presence.

Though it were not as a kin of her own. Despite the stripes adorning her coat, Zeeha were no zebra. It were markings which she had painted upon her coat, when she had gotten together with her husband in years past. Her way of showing her respect to the traditions of the zebra, and the mark of approval from the elders in the town they had lived within. Something which she had to earn, but there had been no obstacle, nor test, she would not have passed to be together with the stallion of her dreams.

There were no laws against their kind mingling, but his family were one of tradition, and they were none to keen of having him marry some outsider, that he had saved in one of his heroic adventurs. He did not care personally, but she did not wish to have him estranged from them, and as such, had taken it upon herself to earn their respect, in the best way that one could. And she had earned it, as it were her mother in law herself, that had marked her with these stripes upon her completion of the tests, and given them her blessing to elope.

A tear ran down her face as she once again, thought of him. A stallion she had wished to spend her life with, but had only gotten a few, short years together with in the end. Little more than two and a half years of marriage, before someone, or something, took it upon themselves to ruin their life, by taking his.

She kept an image of the two together within her dress, before his end, and her disfigurement. Almost daily, she would take it forth, and think of the times they had together, and weep. As would she often whilst looking at herself in any mirrored surface, and see herself.

The stripes that marked her as accepted by the traditions of the zebra, and reminded her of the home she could no longer find the strength to stay in.

Her dress, once worn on her wedding day, also reminded her of the past. One which caused her both pain and joy to reflect upon, though she knew it would only hurt more if she had left her dress behind, rather than wear it to feel close to her late husband.

And of course, the scars that lined her, after her near death experience, which she would carry with her until her last breath. They had told her there were ways in which they could fix these, and leave her as pristine as she once had been, but it could not happen until she let go. She did not question their ways anymore, as she knew they worked on a plane far higher than what the general equine could realistically understand, but it also made her certain they would remain. For how were she to forget him, and the future that had been so brutally stolen from them?

She stopped in her tracks, and leaned down with a sniffle going over her being. There, she would gaze on a track in the moist dirt, tainted ever so slightly, by a small amount of magic residue.

Much as she'd like to sit and wail for a little over the past, she must go on, and capture this *Magnolia*, she had been told to find. An evil akin to Tirek, which surely had to be stopped, yet her reasons were simpler. This mare, if captured and brought back to her benefactor, would finally give Zheeva the thing she needed most, in her hunt for justice: The name of the one, or ones, who had come to hurt them, and taken his life. What she'd do with that information, were still something she were struggling with, but she needed to know. For him.

And now, she were getting close. She just needed this one bounty more done, and it would be over. Though it worried her to see the direction this mare were going. Ponyville were not a place she knew of, but any city held casualty options, and she would much prefer to not see others die for her crusade. Other families should not know loss as she did.

As such, she would follow this trail, and use her magic to transfer the residue into one of her beakers. It may be useful later.

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

 

@FanOfManyShows

On 12/27/2020 at 1:21 AM, FanOfManyShows said:

"I am done, I will head on my own way, unless you wish to follow. But I have a kingdom to rule. Now let me get you power Centaur."

Seems like they were done then. No matter. Him and his new servant had better things to do now, than tagging along with a foolish dragon, attempting to control the magic eater. He should know better than to trust a being, who were a prime candidate, for the Element of Betrayal. The way Tirek got things were just like it, and were he allowed to, he would likely eventually find the true one, and then his might would surpass what the meager races had seen thus far.

Not more than what Grogar had seen though, and he knew how to deal with others such as this. It were time for them to return home to his cave, and begin preparing for this. Among other things.

On 12/27/2020 at 1:21 AM, FanOfManyShows said:

Chariot lowered his hoof, Astral poking out her head from around a tree
"Stay back, this dragon is greater than me."

"This is the one."
Skall said, silently looking to Tirek, while Astral hid herself with a quick invisibility spell.

Tirek were still unconscious. The magic cast upon him, as well as these chains, maintained him in that state, for the time being. He would be of no help to them, before they removed those. And even then, there were no guarantee that in his weakened state, he'd be able to drain much magic, before getting blasted into his base components.

Meanwhile, Astral would have recently gotten Opal back, but in what state, remained to be seen. Emerald had at least sent her back, which left Astral, potentially Opal, Chariot, and Iron, against Skall, and the element itself. Though, there were one more player in this game, and the element would warn him suddenly to duck, as she got into play: That being the general, whom had been above and behind him, where she had thrown a silver chakram towards his neck. If he did not bow down, it were going to cause issues, as the blade were sharp, and thrown with strength. If it did not though, it would return to the general, where she'd catch it expertly with her right, front hoof.

"Skall: In the name of the Night Guard, and the kingdom of Equestria, I place you under arrest. Yield, or it will be worst for yourself."

No one ever listened to this, but it would function as a distraction for the others to work, as the element began syncing her power with Skall's. They may be more, but together, her and him, had power that might win them this. It all depended on how they used it, and if they could get the lumbering oaf up and running.

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

 

@FanOfManyShows

"I can't sense the dead. But I can sense blood. Recently buried ones, even embalmed, still have some with them. I just need to find one recent, matching what blood type I felt, and..."

The shovel would float in the air, and spin around itself as she sought out a fitting target. Of which there were precious few, but one did eventually manifest itself to her, and she would throw the shoel that way., It would mark a grave of one buried a single day past, who still had flowers adorning their grave. It made Emerald feel somewhat bad, but she had work to do here, and could not let things such as this cloud her judgement. She could pretend to be remorseful later. For now, she had a more pressing matter at hoof.

"There. Now, I dig. Simply try and keep others from stopping us. Non-lethally. Knocking some out and stealing corpses, causes worry. Killing others however, sends heroes on your flank. And we have better things to do, than to deal with those already."

With that, she'd use the shovel, and dig hastily down towards the corpse below. Or their unintended donor, if you would prefer to think on it that way.

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Two mares walked down the least populated street, passing by homes. These mares came to free themselves from stress they got from their jobs and wanted to experience city life.

“Looks like everypony is still at their homes or already went to work” Shining Star, also known as Luna Light mused. Blue Wings, also known as Blue Wingtips shrugged.

“From what I learn from the Cloudy Breeze Public Library in Cloudsdale, Manehattan's population are very busy than any other cities except Las Pegasus in Equestria” Blue said, “Ugh, I'm sounding more like an egghead than an athlete everytime I explain something educative”

Luna chuckled “Then, maybe you should help me solve math problems”

Blue gasped with horror “Math!? No, no, no, no! Not Math! That monstrosity of a subject will keep me in desk jail for hours!” her ranting received a faint laughter from her friend “Also, this what happens to me every time I tried to solve math problems: Head plus math equals BOOM!”

They were suddenly interrupted when their ears caught an unusual sound “Do you hear that?"

Luna nodded “It sounds like some kind of sparks of electricity or something. I think we should go and find the source”

The two went to find the source of the sound. After several seconds of wandering, they finally where the sound came from.

There was a house, but it was not an ordinary house, it was completely different, but that wasn't what caught their attention.

Nearby, there was what it seems to be a tear in the air. Luna and Blue are too shocked to notice a stallion, who's most likely or less likely responsible for the tear.

@Blitz Boom

Tepe's ears drooped “Oh, I don't want that to happen to you girls” that look of guilt completely vanished when he saw everything is going as usual, save for the stallion whose glass cracked stood up and silently went out of the restaurant, not wanting to pay for something he did not broke as several staffs of the restaurant came to inspect the damage.

Windy decided to take care of one of the waitress who went to check if they broke anything. It was a short conversation of question and answer before the waitress left.

Soon, another waitress came to them, this one carrying a tray “Here are your Laksa soup and Spinach soup” she said as she put the dishes on the table, when she's finished, she bowed “Enjoy your meal, Madams” Tepe raised an eyebrow, wondering why the waitress did not say 'sir'.

Edited January 2, 2021 by Windy Breeze

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
"Where exactly is the place?" Ruby asked "I'm more than happy to go and kill something, but if it happens to be somewhere around or past Ponyville, we should probably go get my treasure from Canterlot before heading there so that I can drop it off to my house." she liked Leviathan's suggestion, but she would rather not go to and fro around Equestria if she could avoid it "Other than that, sure, it has been a while since I have gotten to kill something for fun." 

------------------------------------
Nada decided not to expand on what she meant with Berry, as she believed she understood what she meant, it was like she had said, she didn't call them weird, but one couldn't really argue that from point of view of what Berry called 'common puppets'. she indeed was the weird one. "It's not that I personally seek to have a common pony as my friend, I have no need for such judgments, I'm just merely looking it from point of seeking to be accepted, if one wishes to be truly accepted by the common crowd, they have to manage to please the norm so to speak. Though ultimately it doesn't matter what the common pony thinks if the princesses give me their blessing, one cannot please everyone after all, and all I want is to be able to live normally without worrying about banishment." 

-----------------------------------------------------------------
"It's less a question of my comfort and more of their comfort." Scarecrow said "I do not feel discomfort, not physical or mental, nor comfort, but that's besides the point." "I may have a new look, but I'm still the same creature inside, that and we don't yet know if this form is any better." "I can come with you if you insist on talking on someone, but it is better that you do the talking, my voice may now be bit more natural, but my words still are not, as I haven't had a sophisticated conversations for as long as I remember, and I am not well versed on the social norms of current times." 

For the statue, he would simply use his magic to move it on his back so that he could carry it as easily as possible, he had done this many times, too many of you asked him, so it was quick and easy. If nothing happened and Lyriel didn't say anything during the travel, Scarecrow would break the silence "Do you have any suggestions for my second name? Scarecrow is bit unfitting for this look."

[Sekel 694]

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC & ATZY

"So many questions," Atzy said with a quick shake of her head to get her thoughts right. She stared at Mind Reaper and appeared to study the filly before breathing out slowly. This might take a bit more thought than she was willing to put in. "I don't know how to start my own hive. I'm mainly out and about to see what's what with the world," she told Mind Reaper and mostly ignored Karmic coming back upon hearing Enzo's voice. Until she remembered Mind Reaper had asked about Karmic. "Karmic Fate's my adopted sister," Atzy replied and now looked to find Karmic walking up with the general. "She may be black and white but her yin yang cutie mark definitely makes her stand out in my eyes."

"What the? It looks like you've made a friend, Atzy. Or maybe that's just a figment of my imagination and you're talking to a tree branch," Karmic said as she looked up to Atzy resting on Enzo's shoulder. She walked around him and then looked up properly. "Oh, not a branch. Sorry, little one."

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"I thought ... the spell isn't what I thought it was? But I read it over multiple times," Twilight said in absolute shock and confusion. She stayed where she was, mulling over the mare's words, her tail flicking in agitation. "The ingredients call for Tatzlwurm juice, Marepunzel's hair, and something else I can't put my hoof on."

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"Y-Yeah, sure," Aurora mumbled and laid down so Happy could hop off. "I ... guess this entire Forest has me frazzled. Sorry about this everyone. I'm not much of a Queen if I can't will myself to fight, huh?" She breathed and regarded what they had talked about before shaking her head. "I don't know what pair of bombmakers you three are talking about but they sound really dangerous."

@Widdershins

DAWN STREAK

"Hot!?" Dawn gasped, fluttering her wings. She looked away and stepped back as her face turned an even darker shade of red. "I ... gah, I'm not hot! I'm a Pegasus with bad wings who can barely fly!" she yelled in an attempt to throw him off how much she liked the roundabout compliment.

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

“It’s my first time playing a flute, actually. I’ve got no experience with musical instruments, so this’ll be quite a thing to learn. I find it hard to believe anyone would want to break this sort of thing, not when it’s functional. This is a pretty thing, no doubt.”

Lin examined the flute placed before her, looking at each curve and contour. There was something missing back home whenever the village would gather around the fire and regale each other with stories. Music wasn’t something that came naturally to the longma, not when anyone couldn’t find the time to try something involving an instrument. Even singing was more of a private affair than one that was openly shared among the close communities, which came off as something strange, as that was an action that is freely done. 

Meanwhile, Sen was starting to feel rather intimidated by Rosa’s score. An 11 was already daunting, and with the longma putting on a rather poor performance during the practice rounds, this game’s outcome may be more one-sided than it seemed. Sen still hoped for the better, seeing as he was able to show rapid improvements during the previous games.

Sen took his shot, keeping his previous attempts in mind and learning from where he fell short. Seemed like if his blow darts are landing too far below the center of the target, he’d need to aim higher and expel some air harder. With only one attempt to make it count, he took one deep breath in, took aim, and let what happens next happen. The dart’s drop-off was evident but aiming higher managed to compensate for that.

Sadly, it wasn’t enough as the dart only managed to land on a 7. Sen sighed, unimpressed by his attempt despite being much better than everything he did in the practice round. 

“Given how your attempt went, you still edged out over mine. You’ve got a leg up over me in skill.”

[Rising Dusk 27,800]

@Blitz Boom

Titles always gave an air of importance.  Many hardly thought as to why such things were, often recognizing that the pony had one and just nodded along, perking their ears to their attention.  Out of context, a title could mark good or evil.  Minty's title to Cloudsdale without context made it sound bad, which is why Tussle wished she'd stop listening it.  It wasn't even an official title!  Having about as much weight as a nickname one picks up in college at their local frat or sorority.  At least out in the rest of Equestria.  Minty was still more than welcome in Cloudsdale where the legend still is.  The mayor was more careful with how much cider they gave Minty at their parties as a result however.  Watching the Sun and Moon as a pony in Cloudsdale was majestic on its own, but one day to see a mountain blipped away at a yearly celebration party with too many spirits was that middle ground of awe and terror, more awe the next day.  "Thank you darling, I'll have to regal you with more when a less grumpy pony is around," the large mare bowed to her audience.

Ignoring the grumpy Minty who had her spotlight stolen, Tussle took note of Magma's request.  Walking over to a filing cabinet her horn ignited and the top drawer slide open.  She rustled through the collection of files, "Let's see..." Pulling out a file based on case number, recently added as it was just a few days ago, she levitated out the case on the Manehatten attack.  "We had a double case with one Molotov Boom.  He has a workshop in the East Industry District with his sister Blitz Boom," she informed the other resident of Center Zero.  A piece of parchment came floating by with the address filled out to float before the mare.

 

Rising didn't have any illusions the attitude he was receiving from the gruff caster of the spell was going to change.  He found his interested peaked though when Thistle finally took over the conversation.  Her tone and term of address had completely changed from his departure just a short while ago.  Rising had so quickly gone from Savior to Outsider.  Strange coming from the specter pony he worked along side to remove Twisted from their lands.  "Sorry, I was busy entertaining your Goddess in the Dream Realm," the detective admitted.  Sure, his senses were a bit dulled in his recovery, but he also wasn't actively looking either.  "But find it I did.  Why is there one necessary however?" he inquired of the specter pony.  "Lily is concerned what is being done to Sickle," Rising made sure to bring up.  Seeing as part of his mission was to return Lily to Harrowmark or barter for her citizenship to Equestria if such a return wasn't possible.

[Galaxical Phoenix 68]

(Page 413. I’m so happy (for Homestuck reasons))

@Blitz Boom

 

Eventide paced just outside of Ponyville, where for the sake of her sanity she could keep away from all of the more paranoid ponies in it. She couldn’t handle any stares, whispers, or really any other sort of attention from them. Not right now.

It was especially good that she had because if she got too close to anypony else right now, her magic—her singing—could affect them. Not that it crossed her mind; she was too into it.

Her facial expressions and physical gestures followed the song—and she was very expressive. She was singing something angry. She was probably singing something edgy, but Eventide didn’t care. She was angry, and maybe she was edgy too but whatever. Whatever! She had bigger things to worry about.

Like having basically just lost every friend I ever had.

Eventide drew a sharp breath, then continued, her voice about as loud as she ever let it get.

♪ “And every second I waste is more than I can take—!” ♪

 

Besides, it wasn’t like anypony was listening.

[Blitz Boom 4,634]

@Galaxical Phoenix

Others around Eventide, did not seem to spare her much more of a thought than they usually did, though there seemed to be more avoiding her than usual. Seeing how the last week or two, had more attacks on the town than normal, it had caused some of the more paranoid to amp up that, and Eventide were sadly an outsider. Even if she had lived in town for some time now, she were not one of them, per se. Bat ponies were already something they were paranoid about, and kirin? Few around here even knew what that were, and while they were usually curious, the knowledge that they could go into more or less a flaming rage mode, did not help Eventide's case in paranoid times, such as this.

One who did not care about that though, were one who had been hoping to run into her for the last week or so, and now finally did so, as hr exited the bakery, with a small bag in his muzzle.

Cover Up had changed some in the week since he last ran into Eventide. An event that were still clear in his mind. Both because of how nice it were to speak to another, that also seemed to want to speak to him, and because of how much he had shoved his own hoof down his muzzle then. It were probably on them both, that it ended awkwardly, with them suddenly wandering different ways, but he blamed himself for it. Like so many other things.

As for the changes, he had been given the option for some clothes, after he had finished painting the walls of the mare's shop, and as that were free things on top of his pay, that didn't seem so bad to him. She were just trying to show some appreciation for his work after all. Or to get rid of things in the discount bin, but he liked to think the former, and had managed to find something he liked. A set of socks, and an open back sweater. Generally he did not wear clothes, but this matched his coat color, so he were happy to receive those. Even if some others had given him a funny look at times since then, and new faces had thought he were a mare. Something he just chalked up to him needing to maybe cut his mane, which were why he had paid for a hair cut.

It had not taken much though. The hair dresser suggested cutting his hair short, to seem more masculine, but he liked his long hair. So in the end, she had just cut the ends, and later he had recolored the tips on his mane and tail. The band on his tail were also gone now, making it a lot more puffy, and his mane were tied up further up. It didn't seem to bad, so he had elected to give it a chance.

He also changed his tattoos, to better match him not having to cover as much skin anymore, to hide his scars under ink. Mostly simplistic stuff, but he had flaunted his skills with his left front leg, to try and show what he could do. And it had gotten him a couple of interested beings asking questions, so there were that.

He still carried the large paint brush on his back though, and the large ink well on his right, with the saddlebag on the left evening out the weight. He didn't feel comfortable leaving these things somewhere he couldn't see them.

Things to talk with Eventide about perhaps, if she were okay talking. She seemed to be in a bit of a bad mood, when he wandered close enough to see her face properly. Didn't walk like life were a breeze either, and then... She were singing? Sounded like things about anger. Maybe he shouldn't disturb her... Of course he shouldn't, right? It were Him who chased her off the last time, because he were an idiot. Couldn't keep his stupid hoof out of his gaping muzzle...

He'd berate himself in a more angry fashion than normally, and had to stop up. His gaze would be looking towards the ground, and shift from depression, to misery, anger and pain, as he started to berate himself for various things. Most of which had no rational reason to pop up right now. He didn't notice much else around him as that happened. Including the increased number of ponies snorting at one another, and pushing past them. Things were looking a little hostile.

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

 

@Califorum

The closer she got to town, the more it seemed to reek of dark magic. The same sort she had thus far been following, and at times, had gathered up.

Zeehva did not much care for dark magic like this. It were a corruptive force, mostly wielded by the sort who did evil, with the rare few exceptions being few and far between. Yet with what little she had been told of her target, she were likely going to need to use whatever she could get hold of, and she did find that most she were up against, did not expect to have their own magic used against themselves. Even if it were a minor amount.

It had often given her an upper hoof, and she were concocting something as it were already. A minor potion, in which she did just need a little more of her targets own magic. Something which she now managed to get, a few meters from where Magnolia were currently laying ready for an ambush.

She'd gather it up, and have it gather into the beaker. An action that would make the glowing liquid inside, turn dark purple. Something which were not entirely what she wanted it to be, so she floated a smaller vial up, filled with a strange, bright pink liquid with sparkles in it, and added a few droplets. A swirl and a shake later, it would turn the liquid into a harrowing, slimy green. It were ready then, though she of course still needed to find her target before she could use this, and then hope that it worked. Her concoctions weren't flawless, and she knew very little about this *Magnolia* mare, so there might be complications, and a need to adjust on the fly.

She'd stop up, and gaze into the green liquid, with a sigh escaping her muzzle.

"What would you have done, if you were here?"

Her thoughts wandered briefly to her late husband. A hero of some renown, in the area of Zebrica that he came from. Maybe not the greatest one they ever had, but she felt sure, that if he had been given this task, Magnolia were caught, and delivered with a nice bow around her, at least two days earlier than this. He were always a better hero than she could pretend to be, and frankly, she didn't see herself as one. Even if others were starting to call her that at times, she didn't feel as if she deserved it. She were not doing this out of the selflessness of her heart after all, as a real hero should. She did this to find answers, and in her mind, you could not be a hero, and have selfish reasons at the same time.

She'd never live up to his standards... *sigh* But she had a job to do, and should be on her way. It would not make her less sad to stand here and weep.

So she moved forward, yet stopped before getting within the last fifteen centimeters of where Magnolia were hidden, and looked around nervously. Something felt wrong.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"It should be around this area. I just need to look for the marker first... Hold on."

Leviathan would spread her wings, and soar far above the tree tops. As she reached there, she'd begin to slowly flap her wings to keep herself airborne, and otherwise gaze around for a while, whilst looking for something specific. This weren't where she had last experienced they were, so she needed to readjust some.

It would take about half a minute, but eventually, she'd finally bite notice in what she were looking for: A shining, yellow glimmer, wafting vaguely through the air to the north west.

With her goal in sight, she'd flap down to the ground again, and fold her wings back in.

"North west, there's the first marker, a few kilometers away. It's not exactly where the area is, but it marks the distance where they warn others to turn down a different path. If we go there, we should be able to find another marker, and get an idea of what direction to go.

Are you ready to fly? We can walk too, but it'll take longer."

In either case, the marker she were referring to, would be a crystal-like, yellow flag. Nothing majorly impressive, but it stood out, and during night time, would reflect any light hitting it. It were a fine indicator to work with for fliers, though the actual roads had warning signs. Didn't mean they didn't need to think about the griffons, pegasi, and dragons in all of this.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Berry were about to say something, when somepony knocked on the door. Clearly not the shark pony from earlier, as this weren't her soft thud, but more a methodical, hard knock. Even from this sound alone, it sounded very official.

Which meant that Berry got paranoid and instinctually covered a little down, to be out of sight - even though nopony could gaze in through the windows - and Ziggy were left with answering the door.

She'd creak the door open, and pop her head out to see who were there. Seemingly somepony who did not have time, nor want for any of her usual commotion, as she were interrupted before saying a word fully, and would retract her head to show that somepony had shoved a parchment into her muzzle. And judging from her closing the door, had left again.

The zegasus would wander over and spit out the parchment on the table, which would roll over towards Nada, and show an official, Princess Luna seal, once it stopped in its tract.

"That was kinda rude. Some bat pony in a uniform, came delivering this, and then just wooshed right away after that."

"Didn't show any ID? Might be a parchment bomb then."

"Looks more like a letter from the princess. *gasp* Maybe you already have an answer, Nada! Open it up, and see what it says!"

While Ziggy bounced in place, eager to know, Berry would go fully under the table. She still weren't ruling out an explosive of some sort, but also knew that Nada would likely not listen to her, if she said not to open it. And well... Nada were bigger. If she didn't want to listen, what could Berry realistically do about it?

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I understand your concerns. It may sound normal to me, but I listen to many tongues, and often are they less well put together than what you utter. I suppose I may have begun to loose track of what counts as an odd way to speak, because of it. I'm sorry for not taking that into consideration, Scarecrow.

Though in regards to a last name..."

Lyriel would ponder this as they moved on. She were one of a singular name too. As were all whom she had grown up with. The need for a last name, or to have it split up, were not something she were overly familiar with. Mostly it were through the ponies that she even knew it were a thing, and their names were odd at times, because of it. Yet there still seemed to be some kind of synergy in it, yes? If so, Scarecrow would need that too. Though it were a hard one for her to find an answer to, as Scarecrow already sounded complete as a name.

Eventually, after several minutes of wandering, she'd tentatively raise her voice again, and give if not solutions, then at least her suggestions, based on what she knew of ponies.

"...Perhaps Field, or Cornfield? I hear ponies ponder synergy in their names, when it is split up. And what little I know of scarecrows, have them placed in fields, to protect their corn. Would there perhaps be something to work with in that regard? It is not something I have thought much about, so I understand if the names are not suitable enough for you."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

In a desert, free of most, non-animals life, wandered a lonely queen through the dunes.

It were still odd for Onache to have this. Not just the form - though she were still trying to get used to the colorful display and chest fluff she now had - but also this desert. She may have been used to living in one, but she were nomadic, for the sake of safety, and the desert she had lived in for so long, had been far grander in size than this.

Now though, she had a slice of desert all to herself, and a temple within, housing an oasis. She had what were needed to survive, and as she no longer had to hunt for food, no immediate reason to move around. Things were about as stable and good as they could be.

Yet, she were still alone here. Her singular drone were currently out and dealing withs something she had sent him off to do, and there would likely be some time before his return. And even then, it were not yet time for her to begin laying the  eggs for the next generation of her hive. She still needed to prepare space, and then begin talks with the nearby town, to ensure they wouldn't try and attack in the midst of hatching season. One which she had to deal with herself the first time, instead of being able to rely on nursery hatchlings. Though that were nothing new. She tended to take care of this herself, as well as the previous culling of her eggs, to ensure that none would hatch, only to end up starving, and facing mindlessness. It were kinder if they never drew their first breath, even if that mercy hurt her to dole out.

Thankfully, this were something which she did not have to do again now. That she were thankful for, though there were still much to do, and it all started here at the temple. The building granted by the travelling sphinx, after her trickery had bound Onache in deals and restrictions, before she were even aware of it. One that had lead her to having no choice, but to change into what she were now.

The reasoning of the sphinx still eluded her, and she supposed it would for the rest of her life. Their kind were trickery beings, with plans reaching far ahead. In the end, trying to figure out which pawn on their board you were, would lead only to a headache. Best to simply accept it, and attempt to move with the flow.

As she finally reached her temple, she'd let out a sigh, and wander over to take a few gulps of water before entering the building itself. A large, rather empty construct thus far, which may well be able to hold quite a few dozen changelings within. And with plenty of space to spare even, as the only thing really taking up space here, were the water-filled, elongated bowls of water, running down the right and left side of the interior, the throne she would sit upon, and the bowl of water near it.

The throne were nothing special though. Not the regular kind of changeling throne, that would hinder magic. Just a regular one of stone. She'd need a pillow or something for it at a later time, though her focus were more on her actual goal: The hatch behind the throne, which would open up for the rocky ground beneath. A place she had thus far, managed to dig some into, which were seen on the rubble to the side. Something she'd deal with eventually, but for now, she just cared to begin the tunnels beneath, so allow for more secure homes for her eventual nymphs. They were curious little creatures after all, and if raised above ground, were likely to wander off, in search for adventure. Something which rarely ended well for them, as a changeling nymph were rather defenseless. They'd need time to properly grow up first, before... before...

Wait, why were there more rubble, poking out from the hatch? And why were this stone different from that which she had already removed? She knew her rocks well enough to spot the difference between this mess, and the solid stone beneath her hooves. The color alone were a tip off, but the important part were not what kind of rock this were. Rather, it were what it were doing in her throne room.

"What is this mess? Have something stirred beneath?"

She were mainly speaking to herself. Who'd give her an answer after all, right? She were alone here, and about to light up her horn, to begin blasting away some of these rocks. Somewhat slowly though. She did not want to have a piece blast off, and scuff her throne.

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

 

@GingerLightning

"Ooooh, this is so exciting!"

"I know, right? A student for our theater! And a changeling even!"

"Half a changeling at least."

"Half or whole, she's still kin. We gotta make her feel welcome."

The four changelings were speaking between one another, excitingly going on and on about some new arrival they had been told would be on her way, until a sharp whistle got their attention, and they turned to face their queen.

"She'd on her way alright. And that's why we have to make sure the reception is impeccable! Come on now everypony, back to preparations."

They'd all nod, and scamper in each their own direction, as Cheshire let out a little giggle. As most times she presented herself in her pony form, as it were what made the most outsiders comfortable, and she did whatever she could to integrate. Why, she even spoke like them more and more, which had had a positive effect in her opinion. Even if it were a minor one, every little helped when you were in their position.

Sure they had been in this theater for a few months now, but there still came inspectors unannounced, and they had regular equines, and other beings come in for various shows. Their reputation were doing well really, yet all it took were one indicator that they were trying to hide something important, or weren't open with others, and the whole thing could collapse. Not the building itself of course. They had ensured to reinforce it as they had worked tirelessly to fix it up, changeling style. Which yes, meant there were hardened bile holding things in place here and there, but what really were the issue, right? It were stronger than cement, and completely natural. Nothing toxic or anything about it. Though eventually, they really should looking into having it painted over. One thing at a time though.

Onache would wander forward, humming to herself and make a little twirl, as she'd use her horn to unlock the front door to the old theater. She wanted to have a look if their esteemed guest would be here soon. It hadn't been long since they were told of her, but they had been exceedingly happy to welcome her here, and were getting very excited to meet her. And according to what she had read, she should be here today. It mentioned she might even have a pet with her, which were adorable, even if it didn't specify. It just mentioned a puppy of some sort, so they got some kibbles and a chew toy. Hopefully it would be a good one, and not the sort to chew on everything.

(more or less how the theater looks inside. Just with a bigger stage, and two rows of seats less)

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

 

@Windy Breeze @Kujamih

On 12/29/2020 at 2:08 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Nearby, there was what it seems to be a tear in the air. Luna and Blue are too shocked to notice a stallion, who's most likely or less likely responsible for the tear.

Molotov would notice the two ladies as well, and give them a big smile, whilst taking a step further back from the tear in front of him. All the while, the levers on the glass he were wearing over his eyes, would adjust via his magic. A thing he did so frequently, that it were more or less unconscious most times for him, when he adjusted the various lenses here. It made a lot think he were perhaps leering, or trying to take a picture, but that wasn't true! This thing couldn't take pictures.

"Why hello there, ladies. I'll be right with you, if you wanna see the wonders of the famous Boom family legacy, but I just gotta sort this out, before it goes badly."

A loud moan came from the tear, which ripped open a little more, and spewed out some sort of dark glob on the ground. He weren't sure what it were, but it seemed to be somewhat corrosive, which made Molotov return his focus to this. He could mingle with the ladies later. First off, he had to sort this heap of trouble out.

"Yep, definitely not looking better. Blitz! You found the wrench yet?!"

He'd raise his voice, and look back at the workshop, where the filly would finally run out again, with a wrench in her muzzle. Or it looked like one at least. The general form were the same, but it had diodes, and the inner part that clamped down, seemed to be made of some sort of glass, or crystal. In which there were running a good deal of wiring and small, grey crystals. It were also rather large, and seemed to cause her a little bit of trouble to run with. Until she remembered that she were a unicorn, and used her magic, rather than trying to carry it in her muzzle.

"Found the strange thingie!"

"Atta girl, sis. Toss it over here, and let your big bro work his mojo. We'll get this sorted soon enough."

It would also cost them a bit of dirt, as the tear were growing to about a meter at this point, but a small price to pay. As were the wrench, though he hated having to replace these. They were costly as all hay to put together, and a pain in the flank to wire up properly. *sigh* A shame that there weren't a choice here though.

So he'd catch it with his own magic as Blitz got it close enough, and rose up, ready to throw it rught at the pile, in the middle of the tear. Unless somepony stopped him, this would be the plan. Which would probably work, but not look all that professional.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

On 12/29/2020 at 2:08 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Oh, I don't want that to happen to you girls”

"It's okay, just try and stay calm now. Accidents are just something that happens sometimes."

It had caused quite a commotion though, with another pony even leaving the place entirely, before he were gonna be confronted with the damages to what were on his table, and potentially getting charged for it. Which frankly didn't sound that nice either, to be blamed for that, but what were he going to do? He didn't know about Tepe, and probably ghosts in general. Few were sadly able to see or hear them, so while Windy and her were able to see what had gone on, this poor stallion weren't aware. And neither were the staff, who'd likely think he had smashed it into the table when they weren't looking, or something of the sort.

Windy went to talk to them, but Sorrow got the feeling that she wouldn't be able to make much sense to them about this. Even if she could see spirits now, she did not seem to be aware of this new ability of hers, and as most could not see Tepe, what were she going to say, that didn't sound like she were blaming her imaginary friend? She'd like to know, but Sorrow were too far away to hear anything, or see much of what she were doing. They weren't getting kicked out yet though, so... Maybe she had managed to sort this out in some way? it were really hard to tell, unless she saw some kind of consequence, or Windy told them herself.

If they didn't know before they left the place, perhaps she'd ask then. Though for now, there were soup on the menu.

On 12/29/2020 at 2:08 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Enjoy your meal, Madams”

(gonna assume their drinks were also brought in at the same time)

"Thank you. It looks delicious."

Sorrow would smile at the waiter, and focus her attention there, until the pony left, and she could turn to Tepe. Considering what he had said, he were likely confronted again by somepony not seeing him, and could use some reassuring words.

"Don't worry. Even though they didn't see you, I'll make sure to tell them to bring your desert in too."

Some might see her talk to thin air and be confused, but it wasn't like she hadn't tried that before. Best to just ignore them, in her opinion.

Now as for this meal though, time to try and see how it were.

She'd dip the tip of her bread in the soup, soaking it nicely, and then bringing it up and took a bite. Heavenly, heavenly taste in her opinion. And a good kick to it. Like, phew. Must be one of those with an upfront bite that got milder later, right? Best to just keep eating and wait for that. Never good to let the heat catch up to you.

"This is really good. *gulp* What about yours, Windy? *munch*"

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 1/2/2021 at 1:10 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"We had a double case with one Molotov Boom.  He has a workshop in the East Industry District with his sister Blitz Boom," she informed the other resident of Center Zero.  A piece of parchment came floating by with the address filled out to float before the mare.

"M-Molo..."

She seemed stunned as she were informed of the name of the survivor. Or well, survivors. One more than expected, yet one name stuck out far more than that of his little sister, whom she only knew by reputation, and a label near the Boom family workshop, which carried an actual picture of her, with the words *Warning: Security risk. If seen loose, return immediately*. Something which did not install her with a lot of confidence, but at least she had never seen the filly in question. Just seen this sign, and heard a few tall tale here and there, from other researchers who mingled a little more closely with the Boom family. As well as a few who claimed to have seen her try and rummage through their trash cans, though that seemed silly, even for one of Them.

The stunned look did not last long though, as her eyes narrowed, and teeth grinded slightly. The temperature around her rose too, by around five degrees, as she metaphorically bubbled up. The seal on her being, did wonders to keep it from rising a full ten, or fifteen degrees. Nothing massive, but a warning sign nonetheless.

"Molotov. Boom. Of all the cockroaches to scurry out of the rubble, of course it had not just be one of Them, but the worst they had to offer."

She sat down, and took her glasses off, before rubbing above her closed eyes with a hoof. It sometimes helped her get herself a little more under control, and judging by the temperature, it did do exactly that, after a minute or so had passed.

It were not as if they had to guess her opinion on Molotov, or his family in general it seemed, yet she'd still explain once she had cooled down a little.

"I am not saying that family doesn't have their uses, and did not create wondrous things for our town. However, I had hoped that some Actual scientists had escaped, rather than the newest branches on their aptly scorched family tree. One of which I know only of through literal warning labels marking her as a safety hazard, and the other whom I have seen around before, and twice pushed into a vat of varied, yet harmless substances, for not understanding that I did not appreciate his comments.

I am not sure if it is something with their internal education, or a genetic problem, but I have yet to meet a Boom, that had a proper connection between their brains and their muzzles. Yet none as infuriating as him. *sigh* And to think that I must approach him to find what papers remains of the experiment that lead to my current state...

My apologies for this outburst. Molotov simply have a certain... Effect on others. Perhaps I am judging too harshly, and a few months in the real world, have lead to a market improvement in his behavior. Please forgive my unprofessional, emotional display."

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 1/2/2021 at 1:10 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"Sorry, I was busy entertaining your Goddess in the Dream Realm,"

"𝕊𝕠 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕔𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕟. 𝔾𝕠𝕠𝕕. 𝕀𝕟 𝕔𝕒𝕤𝕖 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕤𝕥 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕤𝕥, 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕪 𝕓𝕖 𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕥𝕠 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕖, 𝕚𝕗 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕦𝕡 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕟𝕖𝕩𝕥 𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕧𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕥 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕕. 𝕀𝕥 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕦𝕟𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕚𝕥𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕗 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕤𝕒𝕧𝕚𝕠𝕣 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕒 𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕗𝕒𝕥𝕖 𝕒𝕤 𝕤𝕦𝕔𝕙 𝕒𝕟 𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕝𝕪 𝕒𝕘𝕖."

She did indirectly say that she thought he'd end up doing something dumb, out of sheer curiosity, but there were some degree of concern for his wellbeing there too. And she used the affix as savior again here, though she had reverted to outsider before, as she had assumed he did not much care to be referred to as a savior all the time. What reason there might be for that, beyond him feeling too humble for such a title, she did not know, but let that be his choice to make.

As for the saving she mentioned... Well, considering what she were the goddess of, Viz'nay would most likely save him, in as much as she'd allow his soul to rest, rather than be returned as some revenant, or ghoul. Potentially an ingredient for some wilderness wizard, which he'd also avoid. Considering how he cared for others, Thistle considered it a great kindness, if at his death, he would know that he wouldn't end up hurting anyone else. At least not physically, though the loss would most likely be tragic to those he cared for. In her time at least, this were seen as a great blessing, and one that had been historically offered to all of their heroes. Not that all had accepted it, but such were their choice to make.

In any case, the conversation moved on, and before she could make an inquiry of herself, he mentioned something else that seemed important to address. She'd offer Rising the respect of answering that first.

On 1/2/2021 at 1:10 PM, Rising Dusk said:

"But find it I did.  Why is there one necessary however?" he inquired of the specter pony.  "Lily is concerned what is being done to Sickle,"

"𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕔𝕖 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨𝕤 𝕨𝕙𝕪 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕕𝕒𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕤 𝕦𝕤𝕖𝕕. 𝕀𝕥 𝕝𝕚𝕖𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕓𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕕, 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕣𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕒𝕘𝕚𝕔, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕒 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕓𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕗𝕝𝕖𝕤𝕙. 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕚𝕗 𝕚𝕥 𝕙𝕖𝕝𝕡𝕤, 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕧𝕠𝕝𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕒𝕤𝕜. 𝕀 𝕕𝕚𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕔𝕖 𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕙𝕠𝕠𝕗, 𝕠𝕣 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕒 𝕕𝕖𝕞𝕒𝕟𝕕.

𝕐𝕖𝕥 𝕀 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕 𝕞𝕪𝕤𝕖𝕝𝕗 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕤𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕔𝕒𝕟𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕘𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕤𝕡𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕚𝕤 𝕗𝕠𝕣. 𝕎𝕖 𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕜𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤. 𝕀 𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕦𝕞𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕗𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤, 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕔𝕥 𝕥𝕨𝕠 𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕠𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕤. 𝕎𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕊𝕚𝕔𝕜𝕝𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕟, 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕠𝕔𝕚𝕒𝕥𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕔𝕖, 𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕝𝕖𝕗𝕥 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕟𝕕. ℍ𝕖𝕣 𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕕, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕨𝕠 𝕧𝕚𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕘𝕚𝕔 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕖𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕠𝕪. 𝕆𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕨𝕖 𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕔𝕙 ℂ𝕠𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕙𝕒𝕘𝕖𝕟, 𝕨𝕖 𝕤𝕙𝕒𝕝𝕝 𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕞𝕒𝕘𝕖𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕓𝕖𝕘𝕚𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕚𝕣 𝕔𝕣𝕒𝕗𝕥.

𝕐𝕠𝕦 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕𝕟'𝕥 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕣𝕪 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙. 𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕤𝕖𝕖𝕜 𝕒 𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕗𝕒𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕙𝕠𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕘𝕚𝕔, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕞𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕕𝕦𝕚𝕥. 𝕎𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕤𝕒𝕧𝕒𝕘𝕖𝕤."

It would not begin things well, if she had their savior ruptured, as a portal were crafted and expanded in his being, and using his skeleton as the outline of a portal. Even they did not practice such... Barbaric rituals. And not just because the sort of magic to do this, would be immense. It were simply also too horrible for even their most vile practitioners. Including Twisted, which had this as one of his few limitations. Morally or magically, were up for debate, though she personally did not think he had any moral standards to uphold, so it were more a magical limitation. Maybe his own, or Suusha were still sane enough to at least not allow internal implosion/explosion of others. Either way, it were good it had not happened.

"ℕ𝕠𝕨 𝕀 𝕞𝕖𝕒𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕤𝕜 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕎𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕟𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕨𝕖𝕟𝕥 𝕦𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕓𝕝𝕖, 𝕨𝕙𝕚𝕔𝕙 𝕀 𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕦𝕞𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕠 𝕕𝕠 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕍𝕚𝕫'𝕟𝕒𝕪, 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤 𝕖𝕤𝕔𝕒𝕡𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕚𝕣𝕣𝕠𝕣. 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕚𝕗 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕕𝕖 𝕚𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕚𝕗 𝕤𝕦𝕔𝕙, 𝕚𝕗 𝕤𝕙𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕕. 𝕀 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕕 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕒𝕜𝕖 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕚𝕤𝕤𝕦𝕖 𝕠𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕦𝕡, 𝕚𝕗 𝕚𝕥 𝕚𝕤."

It were hard tot ell for them, as the mare had seemed skeletal, and as such, might have been undead. If that came through unsupervised, bad things might happen, which they would be blamed for. That would not sit well in her mind.

Normally she wouldn't think twice about simply dealing with this herself, but she could not leave Harrowmark. She were bound to it's shores, and would never be able to leave. Such were one of the prizes she paid, when she gave herself fully to the goddess.

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

 

@Sekel

On 12/29/2020 at 1:43 PM, Sekel said:

"I don't know how to start my own hive. I'm mainly out and about to see what's what with the world," she told Mind Reaper and mostly ignored Karmic coming back upon hearing Enzo's voice. Until she remembered Mind Reaper had asked about Karmic. "Karmic Fate's my adopted sister," Atzy replied and now looked to find Karmic walking up with the general. "She may be black and white but her yin yang cutie mark definitely makes her stand out in my eyes."

"Ooh, that's fair. I got siblings who have started to go out and explore the world too now. There's a lot of things we can suddenly go and see now, without having to worry about eating others, or be close to the hive.

And I dunno with how to start a hive. I'm not a royal nymph. I think you just need a drone to fertilize your eggs though, and you start from there. Maybe you borrow one? King Thorax probably knows this."

"I do not much care to be in the vicinity of that conversation. Though I find it likely that a drone were used from another hive. Perhaps a stolen one."

"Awh, that wouldn't be very nice. So probably that."

The changeling fluttered in the air, as she shrug her shoulders. She really didn't know what might be the case here, but smarter changelings than her were sure to sort this out eventually. Which left her with the option to go and focus on this adoptive sister of Karmic. A non-changeling it seemed. How enticing. Usually changelings didn't keep food around and raised them up as one of their own. Very, very interesting.

Fluttering over there, the general halted, and let this go on as he silently watched. This seemed to not concern him. And really, if the changeling attempted something, what could he do, which the sphinx could not? It were likely that the only one needing some help in that case, would be the changeling herself.

"Hello there! My name is Mind Reaper. You're Karmic's sister? It's really nice to meet you. And special too. I have never heard of changelings adopting a pony before. Not like, really at least. It were more scams to get easy meals, for desperate hives."

Grim topic, and a big smile. Reaper were really not helping to promote herself all that well.

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

 

@Sekel

On 12/29/2020 at 1:43 PM, Sekel said:

"I thought ... the spell isn't what I thought it was? But I read it over multiple times," Twilight said in absolute shock and confusion. She stayed where she was, mulling over the mare's words, her tail flicking in agitation. "The ingredients call for Tatzlwurm juice, Marepunzel's hair, and something else I can't put my hoof on."

"It probably call for petals from a Mourner Lily. It grows near gravestones of well maintained graves.

Though I do not see why you would be disappointed in the spell. She seems to yearn for freedom, not another kind of prison. Should it not please you, or do you intent to keep her chained down where you can keep an eye on her?"

Madamme Macabre 's voice got dryer and a little hostile at the end there, to signal how she would be... Displeased, if this were the case. She did not like those who took advantage of the dead like this, or intended to chain them down, when they wanted something else. And this spirit clearly wanted freedom. That much were obvious for her to see and hear.

What were less obvious, were what were inside this top room of the tower. The door were open, yet no light were seen by her. What window were there, were perhaps blocked then? An annoyance, but there would now be a time for the princess to show herself a little then, and light the way for them. It were not one of her own specialties to do, without stirring spirits, and those who followed her, deserved a rest.

"Light the room, princess. Gaze upon the end of this journey, and see if her we seek are here."

(What - and potentially who - is in the room, is up to you)

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

 

@Sekel

"You don't technically have to fight, to be a queen. Queen Cheshire in Las Pegasus, apparently does alright, and she doesn't. I personally though, think it important to know when to fight, and when to- Huh, how peculiar."

As she were speaking, Lulu looked around, as the unnatural darkness that had fallen over the forest, suddenly lifted. It were now as if nothing had ever happened here, which caused her to stop up, and look further around. This may be some sort of ambush, or illusion. Though nothing seemed to happen and Flaxxy were not sniffing anything out that wasn't supposed to happen. And she had a rather good nose on her. That she could attest through several, personal experiences with the diamond dog.

Happy in the meantime, were pleased with getting ground under his hooves again,a nd would wobble around a little, before stretching his legs.

"It's alright. I got this. And I'm sure this here's nothing. This place gots all kinda of crazy stuff happening, so a bit of light meddling isn't the worst.

As for the blasting duo, I say we go and check if that shed of hers had something gone crazy, that hit me. If not, I dunno what else to think. Again, this place is pretty weird.

Dunno how dangerous they are either, Aurora. But hey, you got us to keep you safe now, eh? Got the brawns, the brains, and the eye candy. The whole package."

Happy would grin at Aurora, and point towards first Flaxxy, then Lulu, and then himself as he pointed. He were trying to lighten up her mood, so she'd be less scared about things, and start wandering in the directing they were headed, before Lulu stopped up. Just not too fast. He'd want her to follow after all, and feel safer about things.

"Hehe. Funny pony is right. I is very strong."

"I am not disputing that, Flaxxy. His own role as eye candy however, is up for debate."

She'd give Happy a minor look, which involved a theatrical eye roll, and then be on her way too. Flaxxy on the other hoof, went over and patted the pony, before moving on. Perhaps not the most dignified thing to do, but hey- A positive response, were a positive response, right?

"Well someone have to be, and Aurora's already clinging to being the damsel in distress. So I called dibs. Hehe."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 12/30/2020 at 6:46 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“It’s my first time playing a flute, actually. I’ve got no experience with musical instruments, so this’ll be quite a thing to learn. I find it hard to believe anyone would want to break this sort of thing, not when it’s functional. This is a pretty thing, no doubt.”

 

"Oh, no one generally wants to break these. I'm just saying it will take a force like sawing it over, to break it. It's not a little tin thing, that will break after a little bump. We do take pride in our work here."

She'd give a smile, then wander to the side a little bit, to deal with another who had won a price. It had ended on one fish, and he picked a dark dice. It seemed to fascinate him, and it were something fun for folks to get now and again, for their various games. She were working on getting a full, 6 dice set for the top shelf too, but she just had to iron out a bit of details first. Couldn't always be easy, unfortunately.

Omen would come over then, tongue wrapped around her own prize, and look at the flute.

"I have heard ponies play that before. I think others liked it."

Omen had tried herself, but since she did not need to breathe, playing the flute were a bit of an issue for her. Hay, blowing a bubblegum bubble were an issue, and one Discord had tried to encourage her to sort out once. It had gone about as well as could be expected, with Omen instead spitting it out, and hitting him in the eye. He had encouraged her to seek out other entertainment options, after that.

On 12/30/2020 at 6:46 AM, EQ_Theta said:

Sadly, it wasn’t enough as the dart only managed to land on a 7. Sen sighed, unimpressed by his attempt despite being much better than everything he did in the practice round. 

“Given how your attempt went, you still edged out over mine. You’ve got a leg up over me in skill.”

"Such is life at times. Though it were a strong showing, and a close fight we had overall. I am fairly impressed, actually. I assumed I were going to trounce you more substantially. I stand humbled and corrected. As well as soon to be amused, as Lin are likely going to find our little wager to be quite interesting, and with the potential for entertainment."

He would pat Sen on the back, whilst silently bless the moon that he did not lose this. He would have taken his punishment as a stallion if it were, but considering his court date, it would not look good, if he had anything still on his face then, and who knew how long they might have after this, and then a rest, before they needed to appear there? They may not be enough time to properly wash this off. Thankfully it seemed that were not his burden to bear, though he'd be nice, and encourage Lin to show some degree of mercy on Sen.

"Let us go out and find the others. I can imagine they must be dreadfully bored by now, waiting for the two of us. Or they have gone to do their own competition. In which case, I'd be intrigued to find out who won that."

As it had been Omen, that meant that Omen, Lin, and now himself, had all won at something tonight. Soon it would have to be Sen's turn to trounce them all.

[Evil Pink One 13,507]

[@Blitz Boom, @Windy Breeze, @Califorum, @Samurai Equine@Jesse Terrence , @Emerald Heart , @CloudMistDragon]

Somewhere in Manehattan, a reap through time and space occurred.

"Light... Would your team please check on what's happening in that dimension? That place has made quite a mess, and this time... They've seriously done it this time..." A cloaked large being requested to a white earth pony by it's side.

"As you wish." Replied the white pony named Light by the cloaked being.

Light assembled his team and created a portal to the said dimension the dimension where no pony should casually stroll...

_________________________________________________

 

As the tear created by Blitz starts to gradually get bigger and the moaning inside the tear starts to get louder and louder. just outside the fortress, behind the trees, a portal appeared.

From that portal a white earth pony came out of it, it was Light. A horn suddenly popped out of his four head making him look like a unicorn now. It started to glow and he seems to be transmitting, or calling to somepony.

 

"Fail Safe... I'm in... You guys do you copy?... Please answer me?"

He waited for his team to reply, but no one answered back from his call.

 

"This is bad."

He waited for another minute if Cali, Windy Breeze, Crimson Gauntlet, Emerald Heart, Cloud Shroud, Cipher Emblem, and Coda to reply.

It seems im the only one who could enter this realm... Must be because they already exist in this dimension and a duplicate is being prevented, Light pondered.

 

But a sudden screech came out of the tear.

 

" Looks like i cant wait any longer."

Edited January 4, 2021 by Kujamih

[Windy Breeze 15,190]

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Luna and Blue glanced in surprise, finally taking notice of Molotov Boom, who just already teased them. Luna was about to say something, when something... Black went out of the... Fissure on the air?

“What is going on here?” she turned to Molotov, speaking to him with authority “Sir, do you have any ideas what's happening here?”

Meanwhile, Blue retreated behind Luna, just in case something alien got out of the tear.

@Blitz Boom

Tepe smiled.

Windy took an experimental sip of her spinach soup “Delicious as always” she said, fighting back the urge to ignore public manners and simply gulping down the food in front of Sorrow and Tepe.

Meanwhile, Tepe decided to wait in a strange way, by laying his head in the table, his ears lowered (he made sure not to amash to table), and closing his eyes, he wasn't sad, this was just his on tradition of waiting.

Edited January 4, 2021 by Windy Breeze

[GingerLightning 258]

@Blitz Boom Ginger Lightning was arriving a little later than expected and arrived with a crash landing.  She quickly  got up and brushed herself off as if she meant to crash. She looked in her back to see if her timber wolf pal was ok. 

"you ok little buddy?" She asked looking at Meiko in her back pack.

 

[EQ_Theta 460]

@Blitz Boom

It was unsaid if the owner really made the flute or if someone else made it, but it was undeniable that the flute’s appearance had some charm to it. No doubt whoever made it did so with care and pride, something Lin appreciated. She looked to the other contestants who were still present, a combination of those who came away with a little something for their efforts or none at all. No matter how much she could’ve done better, she was satisfied with her performance, and she got a nice flute to play with for a prize. 

Once Omen came by and remarked on her reward, she turned to the Ki’Nathar and had another look at the instrument. Those little combinations of holes were likely involved when playing it. Might take a little dexterity to get some combinations of open and closed holes, but there would be time to practice, preferably some place where she wouldn’t annoy anyone with bad music.

“Kind of makes me wonder how ponies play this thing if their hooves are large enough to cover multiple holes at the same time. Maybe unicorns could magically seal them and pegasi could use their wings if they tried. Not sure how I could picture that… How about you, Omen? Do you like the sound it makes when others play the flute?”

As for Sen, a dead is a deal. He lost this match and would bear the so called mark of shame. Frankly, it may not seem like a bad idea as he wanted to know what it was like to get his face painted. Probably the same way the elite hunters back home used some kind of plant-based pigment on themselves as a kind of face paint. Wouldn’t be so bad then, but he was still at the mercy of his friends, and he hoped he could get a little something tame.

“Yeah, Lin wouldn’t like staying in one place unless she found something to read. But in a carnival such as this? She’d probably be looking around for something to buy. I recall her wanting to get a charm or a trinket, and Tomb or Banshee mentioned someone by the name of Weeping Mary. If she’s got a stall, Lin and Omen are likely there or somewhere nearby.”

Edited January 5, 2021 by EQ_Theta
Had to change a question here as it was already answered.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,604]

@Blitz Boom
"I flew here, carrying you, so yes, I'm fine to fly." Ruby simply responded before turning towards Charir and explaining to him what was happening. After informing Charir, Ruby would gesture Leviathan to lead the way and  then follow her, making sure that Charir wasn't left behind.

She didn't really have anything to say at the current time, so until Leviathan said something, Ruby would stay quiet. Charir too was silent, following the two females and looking around, he had been too focused on the situation earlier to look around, so he figured now was as good of a time as any to see what kind on place he had ended up in. His eye caught on Canterlot, as he had never seen a city, or a town in that matter, but he didn't say anything to Ruby about it, believing that he would be told about it eventually if it was important. 

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"What's with the bat ponies, weird bunch." Nada half said, half thought, she still remembered when Luna had came to visit with her guards, though she wasn't sure which was better, a rude one or the screaming one.  She glanced at both of her friends with blank expression before looking at the letter, they had quite the opposite reactions but both were weird reactions towards a letter, even if they weren't by any means surprising. 

She took the paper and after figuring out the correct way of breaking the seal rolled it open, she didn't know what to expect, but the lack of guards ready to escort her away was a positive sign. 

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"Ah, I think you misunderstood what I meant." Scarecrow stated calmly "I didn't mean continuation to my name, or well, what I adopted as my name, but a replacement, a fake name if you will." he explained "Scarecrow, though a name I like, it doesn't really fit my new disguise, and could rise some questions from those I introduce myself to." "So I asked if you may know a fitting name for this...alternative look, since you seemed to be at least familiar with the creatures it is based on." "But don't worry, I can go as nameless until someone calls me something that sound good, that is what happened with the name Scarecrow too after all." 

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*clang* The sound of metal echoed in the empty dungeon hallway as Trox collapsed on his knees again, to say he was tired was a understatement, he honestly wasn't sure himself how he was still going. He forced himself back up with his cybernetic hand, positioning his unconscious sister bit better on his back, she had passed out a while ago, and the extra weight didn't exactly help with his digging efforts, but he had promised her that he would get her out this place, and he be damned if he didn't keep that promise.

He did his best to clear the rubble in front of him, the natural light breaking through the stone gave him just enough motivation to not just lay down and hope for the best, but willpower alone didn't do miracles, and Trox was closing in on his limit, his body ached beyond reason, his magic was running out and his cybernetics were running on the backup power of the backup power, it wasn't long until he collapsed again.

During the silence after his knees hitting the floor, Trox suddenly heard something, it sounded like someone spoke, but he couldn't fully understand what was said, his ears rang too much from the headache he had. This made him stop moving and listen for a moment until he heard what sounded like magic blasting stone, a sound that was either very good or very bad news.

He waited for a while in silence, considering his options, which there wasn't many, there was only two directions for him to go, and regardless of which he chose, he would be found by this stranger eventually, so he decided to make his presence known, there was no indications that it was guards on the other side, not that it mattered anyway, since there was nowhere to run or hide

He waited until there was a big enough hole for him to fit through, and then he got up and between the blasts got into the light pouring through, his hand in front of him using the last of his magic to create a protective shield that would take a hit or two before breaking. If the poor shape of these two kobolds wasn't clear enough from their scarred and skinny appearance, Trox's voice would seal the deal, as it was shaky and weak, quite like his body "Where are we?" he didn't know for sure what or who he was even talking to, as he was blinded by the light, but the fact that he got the words out meant that who or whatever it was wasn't a guard, guards would have shot first and looked at who they shot after.