open Casual stroll

[Catpone Cerberus 23,599]

@Blitz Boom
After Charir was done with his souvenir, he proceeded to eat more as the earlier had just been a taste, and while he preferred raw meat, meat was meat, so he didn't complain. Being the smallest of the three dragons, he would most likely be the first one to stop eating, as he just dug in having used to not having that much time to eat, and was satisfied pretty quickly. He observed when Leviathan buried the heads but didn't show any strong reaction.

"Some of them have that kind of magic yes, but I'd say they are in the minority." Ruby responded "That and like you said, most of them aren't mentally capable of killing." "Which interestingly enough leads to punishments that in my opinion are worse than just killing someone, even if looking through their own morals." she held up the ram-head of the one she killed and looked at it for a second before tossing it aside "But the common pony seems to be too stupid to realize the implications of the various things their protectors do, not that it's in any way a surprise." 

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Scarecrow just nodded again, as he had nothing to comment out loud, but a thought did come to him, about a possible fate worse than his and the ghost-mare's, that being those who end up living one event, most likely their death, again and again until end of time, he didn't know if these undead were sentient, or if it was some kind of imprint on reality, but if it was the former, it would certainly be worse than existing freely for eternity.

He didn't stop the trip, but when the ponies came to view, or more specifically, they got into the ponies' view, he again signaled Crow to act 'normal' as they were being watched. The red stallion seemed familiar to him, as if he had seen him before, but because of how his memory worked, or didn't work, he wasn't sure if it was from before or if he had just seen the stallion at some point when he had been observing the world outside the forest, ultimately it was meaningless which it was, but it would be something he would think about a bit.

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"I come from the same world most likely yes, even if from different empire." The guard stated "One of course can't be 100% certain that it is the same world, and not a different almost identical world, but that doesn't affect my reason for being here." "Anyway." "I'm Solar Silver, a member of the Royal guard here, and I'm trying to figure out the reason and the means in which I and now you two ended up here." Sheska cut in "So that you can bring your dear ruler here?" her tone was lot more hostile than her brother's, but she stayed put "Quite the opposite, I know you don't trust me, but just know that if Daybreaker does find a way here, I and everyone I know will be killed for treason, so it is in my own best interest to do my best to stop it from happening." the siblings didn't argue, they knew it was probably true if Daybreaker was anything like Nightmare Moon.

"I heard enough to gather that you were imprisoned by Nightmare Moon, and knowing how she does things, I take you were rebels?" after some hesitation, Trox nodded "And from what it sounded like, part of the dungeon came with you?" again a nod "Did anyone, or anything else come with you?" This time Trox answered "Two dead ponies. the prison guards, got crushed under the rubble." Solar turned thoughtful for a moment "That's all for now, thank you." 

He then addressed Onache "I happened to also hear that their appearance happened in your domain, so while you're free to do with the dungeon what you want, as it is worthless and useless here, I'm sure Celestia would appreciate if the two pony bodies could be transported to us, they could also give some information on how they ended up here if I got to examine them." 

"If there's any questions, now would be the time to ask them." 

 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

 @Blitz Boom , @Windy Breeze, @Califorum

Light laughed at Luna, for making the remark on virgin oil... Maybe she didn't hear Light say "virgin OLIVE oil"

"Hahaha it's made from the tears of sacrificed...ahhhmmm extra virgin olive oil... It just means that the oil is filtered more and cleaner."

" Plus it not only takes care of your mane, but also your skin."

Edited January 29, 2021 by Kujamih

[Rising Dusk 27,696]

@Blitz Boom

A taskforce best designed for such an investigation would exist within Center Zero itself.  Only its own residents would be as equipped and fully aware of the type of dangers waiting around the corner.  The only survivors they knew about were the Boom siblings and now Magma.  Possible resources that the Solar Guard may find valuable to getting around Center Zero safely.  Likely under orders already to not touch anything, but that alone could greatly limit their investigation.  "When the O.M.I. is called, it will be ready," confirmed quite proudly.  Making sure to denote it was not a matter of if anymore, but now a matter of when.  It wasn't hard to see the sense of adventure fill her eyes and her next project had been selected now with Manehatten more under control from the previous attack.  Minty couldn't devote the whole O.M.I., the city still needed a presence of its magical guardians.  A small taskforce would do.  Already her mind was sorting for an optimal officer combination.  

Now aloof with thought, she managed to bow gracefully to Magma.  "Until our appointment come the marrow, Magma," she bid farewell to the pony from Center Zero.  Turning to depart and make her way to her private office.  Along the way, and without glancing, she passed the only other occupant in the office at the moment, "Wind Gale, dear, I need you to deliver letter."  The unicorn was drawn out of her paperwork, taking a quick look to see that Scarlet wasn't present in the office for courier work.  "Y-Yes ma'am!" she stuttered and pushed back from her desk.  Walking behind the much larger mare and into her office.

Bash grunted his own farewell with a head nod before squeezing past the gathered group to take his position back at the front desk and his continued research on the plant from Harrowmark.  "I look forward to our meeting Magma.  I'll be in the office as soon as Celestia raises the Sun.  Feel free to drop by any time in the morning," Tussle bowed.  She needed to get out of this dress.  Elegant things like this weren't for her minus the rare Gala or meeting with Royalty.  "It was a pleasure working with you Magma and I hope the charm with the gum help you," Starbright added.  Flare tipped his hat in her direction with his own form of farewell.  The Solar Guard that came running into their office made this sound like it was going to be a terrible thing.  But it felt good knowing they have done there job and helped.

 

"Bits are gold simply turned into coin form for currency.  If you have gold, you can quite easily take it to the bank and they'll turn it into Bits for you," Gold Mane explained.  If Harrowmark used gold coins too, or crowns, transfer would be just a matter of melting it down and re-stamping it with Equestria's mark.  As for the chunk of gold Omen paid for her dress with, same concept of melting it down and turning it into coins.  Reading Omen's body language was enjoyable, like a foal being told they were about to go to their favorite park.  Rising placed the mugs in the sink and filled them with some water to keep the tea from staining the bottom of them.  

"I wouldn't say it's the biggest building and not a castle, but it isn't something we'd leave you to find on your own.  Gold Mane and I will take you there," Cork expressed, volunteering the other unicorn seeing as it was still part of their case.  Gold Mane nodded, not a problem with her at all.  The apartment wasn't all that close to the courthouse, so the need for a taxi might be in order.

More focused on his kitchen work, he wasn't expecting a hug out of nowhere.  Especially a big bear hug.  Crushed on both sides, it was easy to tell this was a hug from somepony that was not experienced with such things.  Knowing the appropriate amount of force was always a good thing to know.  The detective grunt, but didn't fight back even though his training told him otherwise.  "I'll be fine," he grunted out, enduring the moment he didn't want to spoil for her.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Rising Dusk

On 1/31/2021 at 3:37 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Until our appointment come the marrow, Magma,"

"I will look forward to it, Captain. I hope you'll do well until then."

Magma bowed her head at the captain in turn, though not as gallantly. She weren't really in the same sort of social circles, and did more respectful greetings, than lady-like ones. She hoped it would suffice though, as the captain took her leave, and began to plan what other things she seemed to have going ahead of her. As well as, at some point, likely prepare for tomorrow. A day to look forward to, though for now, Magma sadly had to leave Minty's radiance.

On 1/31/2021 at 3:37 AM, Rising Dusk said:

Bash grunted his own farewell with a head nod before squeezing past the gathered group to take his position back at the front desk and his continued research on the plant from Harrowmark.  "I look forward to our meeting Magma.  I'll be in the office as soon as Celestia raises the Sun.  Feel free to drop by any time in the morning," Tussle bowed.  She needed to get out of this dress.  Elegant things like this weren't for her minus the rare Gala or meeting with Royalty.  "It was a pleasure working with you Magma and I hope the charm with the gum help you," Starbright added.  Flare tipped his hat in her direction with his own form of farewell.  The Solar Guard that came running into their office made this sound like it was going to be a terrible thing.  But it felt good knowing they have done there job and helped.

Of course, there were others here too, and she couldn't place all her praise at Minty's hooves. She were a very eye-catching mare, but the others had done her a great service too, in helping her with some of her overheating issues. As they said goodbye to her, so too should she to them, as she'd give them respectful bows in kind. Bash were a little... Special, but she were sure this meant goodbye for him, so he'd get a bow regardless.

"Thank you very muh for your help, everypony. I'll make sure to not squander these gifts, and hope that come tomorrow, I can start to help you with at least some funds and deal proposal for local vendors. I owe you to give it my best, and I fully intend to."

After saying her goodbyes, she'd wander out. She'd return early the next day, though for now, she needed to find something to occupy her mind with. And frankly, she believed she knew just the thing.

Find Molotov, and scare the ever-living bejeebus out of him.

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@Rising Dusk

On 1/31/2021 at 3:37 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"Bits are gold simply turned into coin form for currency.  If you have gold, you can quite easily take it to the bank and they'll turn it into Bits for you,"

"So they're like crown then, but with another stamp on it? Okay, that shouldn't be too hard to get used to then. In Harrowmark, we have three variants of crowns that we pay with. Gold crowns, silver, crowns, and bronze crowns. Not a lot of actual gold crowns around anymore, since that's what Twisted and his cronies liked to hoard for himself the most, but still, it sounds easy enough. I'm sure you have sorts that are worth more than others too. Otherwise, buying like, a house, would require a massive bag, I'd think. Guess I'll see in time."

A whole new country, with lots, and lots of things to learn. She could barely wait to go out and just go for it. Y'know, after she had gotten a request in for citizenship. It'd probably be some time after that, before it actually went through, and she could start really put in her hooves, but hey. Just meant she had time to prepare. And thankfully, she had these nice ponies here helping her. Such a good bunch of equines they were.

On 1/31/2021 at 3:37 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"I wouldn't say it's the biggest building and not a castle, but it isn't something we'd leave you to find on your own.  Gold Mane and I will take you there," Cork expressed, volunteering the other unicorn seeing as it was still part of their case.  Gold Mane nodded, not a problem with her at all.  The apartment wasn't all that close to the courthouse, so the need for a taxi might be in order.

More focused on his kitchen work, he wasn't expecting a hug out of nowhere.  Especially a big bear hug.  Crushed on both sides, it was easy to tell this was a hug from somepony that was not experienced with such things.  Knowing the appropriate amount of force was always a good thing to know.  The detective grunt, but didn't fight back even though his training told him otherwise.  "I'll be fine," he grunted out, enduring the moment he didn't want to spoil for her.

It were a crushing hug, but Rising should get through it without any actual injuries. Though he may feel slightly sore for a while after. Nothing he shouldn't be able to handle, and especially as he'd get some peace and quiet after they'd soon enough leave, to get Grave towards the courthouse.

"You'll really help me with this too,? Man. You three are the best equines I've ever known."

She'd let go of Rising, and wander back towards the others, with a big, cheerful grin, plastered on her face.

"I promise. One day, I'll find a way to repay it. And no words saying I don't have to! In Harrowmark, we believe in a favor for a favor, and I'm not hearing that you don't want me to do anything in return. Sooner or later, you might have something I can help you with, and then I'll be right on it. Several somethings even, if needed. It'd give me an excuse to be around you all again too, hehe.

Anyway, if we're going there, then it's time to say goodbye to you, Rising. I hope the rest of your day will be calmer. You really deserve some rest, after everything you've been through."

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 1/29/2021 at 9:42 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Some of them have that kind of magic yes, but I'd say they are in the minority." Ruby responded "That and like you said, most of them aren't mentally capable of killing." "Which interestingly enough leads to punishments that in my opinion are worse than just killing someone, even if looking through their own morals." she held up the ram-head of the one she killed and looked at it for a second before tossing it aside "But the common pony seems to be too stupid to realize the implications of the various things their protectors do, not that it's in any way a surprise." 

"Perhaps you're right. I might just be overselling them, because I've seen some things, and gotten a slight bias, that makes think there's more to the general populace than you do. If we see nothing worse than this, you're probably the one in the right.

And their punishments can be pretty odd, that's true. Stoning or exiling someone from this world, seems overcomplicated. Simple beheading, and give them a one way ticket down to Tartarus. Hades would make sure they got properly punished after that, if he judged they needed it."

She'd ram her head into the opening she had thus far made in the beast she fell, and took another large chunk out. Honestly weren't bad meat, though perhaps she'd have to try cooking some, and see how it were then? Just had to chop off a filet, and use a bit of fire breath. Pretty easy.

She got to where she were about to breathe fire, when suddenly a roar echoed through the forest. It clearly came a long way away, and yet, it were thundering forth, as the earth shook a little from the volume. Sounded like there were something big in there, and it were Angry! Maybe they managed to get the attention of something more worth their time after all.

Startled, she'd accidentally use frost breath instead, and freeze the slap to her hand. Which she then had to thaw out, like some sort of idiot. What a regrettable situation to find herself in. Mainly because it were somewhat embarrassing.

"Sounds like there's bigger players in there. Much bigger.  Maybe we'll get a real fight out of these after all."

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 1/29/2021 at 9:42 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

He didn't stop the trip, but when the ponies came to view, or more specifically, they got into the ponies' view, he again signaled Crow to act 'normal' as they were being watched. The red stallion seemed familiar to him, as if he had seen him before, but because of how his memory worked, or didn't work, he wasn't sure if it was from before or if he had just seen the stallion at some point when he had been observing the world outside the forest, ultimately it was meaningless which it was, but it would be something he would think about a bit.

"-if t-that's okay?"

"A'yup"

Seemed like the two of them were finishing a talk about something, when they got close enough to hear it. Seemed to go friendly enough, so no need to be concerned either, though Lyriel were still hesitant to move too close. Until they were spotted by Big Mac that were, and got acknowledged with a nod. Not a stallion of many words this one, but he were a kind, hard working soul. That much she had gathered from hearing about him from others. Nothing but positive words, with even the more rough looking beings, saying that if nothing else, they could respect his work morale. You had to do something right, when everyone could think of something nice to say of you, right?

Her personal interaction had been brief, but maybe this were the chance to change that a little, she supposed? He did acknowledge they were there after all. Though what of- Oh, worry not. The mare just turned around, and nearly jumped out of her good skin it seemed, as she locked eyes with Scarecrow.

"Oh! H-Hello there, didn't t-think you'd come up here. Uhm... Yes."

"If it isn't too much to ask, what is it that seemed to make you so nervous about my friend here, Miss Ploughman?"

"It's n-nothing, really. Just a l-little extra nervous around hawks. Something about them m-makes me concerned."

So perhaps she didn't see trough the disguise after all then? Possible, but they may still have to be beware, just in case. Though for now at least, Lyriel were satisfied with the explanation.

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 1/29/2021 at 9:42 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

He then addressed Onache "I happened to also hear that their appearance happened in your domain, so while you're free to do with the dungeon what you want, as it is worthless and useless here, I'm sure Celestia would appreciate if the two pony bodies could be transported to us, they could also give some information on how they ended up here if I got to examine them." 

"If there's any questions, now would be the time to ask them." 

"Send guards to collect them, and they're yours for the taking. Had I known there were corpses there, I would have taken them out along with these two. I foresee enough trouble there, without keeping bodies scattered across my throne room.

As for the dungeon, my domain holds a crystal in the air, which negated the magic of those entering, lest they be sphinx. Within my throne room, lies the exception, and that is where they all came. Whatever they were connected to, managed to poke in, but I doubt there are much to it. I found only little of their exit point, in what I had already begun to dig.

If the ones send wish to examine it, they can do so, but they best not be attempting anything fishy. Any attempt at attempting to establish a connection with whatever world you speak of, will be met with expulsion from the desert. What world you speak of sounds grim, and beyond salvation. I find it better that disease stays where it is.

Though if you two arrived at different points, it sounds as if the barrier between is having some holes poked in it. Where I you, I'd be more concerned of a permanent gateway opening up next time. And whatever or not your trips were intentional, or even the first ones to occur."

Frankly, she didn't care much for what happened to the ponies, now that she did not technically need them for food anymore. But it would inconvenience everyone if there came a dual force of dictators, attempting to take these lands under their control to, leading to a war on several fronts. This peace were much more preferable to that, and her nature made her think of a few things that might threaten it, from the other side of a potential gateway. Several which sounded like they'd be detrimental to all life here, even if she heard so very little. The fear the kobolds had shown though, did support that quite a lot, in her opinion.

"I want to know your plans for these two though. I am not particularly fond of the idea of them being dragged off, by you, or any other. I don't trust any that I cannot get a read on, and you golems are irritating creatures in that regard. As such, who s to say they would not be harmed, as you *transported them to a safe location*?"

So far, there were no need for violence, but she were still weary of him, and wanted to hear what were to happen from here on out. It might present her with a moral dilemma. But she'd cross that bridge when she got there.

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@Windy Breeze

On 1/29/2021 at 2:09 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“You mean Razor? Well, he does sound as if he had to say something important to us and he looks agitated”

She turned he attention to Tepe, who shrugged nonchalantly, but nodded to tell them he agreed with what they are saying. Windy decided to gulp down her dessert, much to his horror and disgust though he didn't show it.

“Ahh, delicious. This is why blueberries are my favorite. A perfect combination for cheesecakes” she whispered in delight.

Seemed like she were on board, though frankly, Sorrow were amazed that the shoe hadn't dropped for Windy yet. She had seen Razor a few times now, and yet, she hadn't bit note in how others couldn't, due to the lack of energy floating through the air, and him not focusing enough to properly manifest. A ghost with some power, or who had trained enough, could be seen by others after all. Razor though... Ergh. He might have gotten some residual energy mixed in with him that could help, but she still hadn't seen others bite note. Except Tepe, but he were one himself, so that didn't count.

A hill to climb when it eventually happened though, right? Or well, a muzzlefull to take in, but that seemed an expression best used for how Windy were eating the rest of her desert. And if she had said that out loud, Sorrow would likely have ended up letting out a snort of laughter.

"Yeah, it's a pretty good combination. Though since you wolfed that down now, should we get going? Are everyone ready for it? It sounded like Razor really needed to get hold of us for some reason."

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@EQ_Theta

On 1/28/2021 at 11:45 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It’s a shame… Why parents even choose to separate it beyond me. They chose to be together, raise a family, and then none of that matters? It’s even worse for the child who has to live and grow through that, even if the parents choose their child’s well-being over theirs. Sometimes, the world outside the forest really confuses me. Everything seems to go  one way, then suddenly things turn out different, and I’m back to knowing nothing.” 

"Sometimes, it just isn't an ideal world. As said though, most times things goes well, and at worst, the parents will do what they can to raise the child, even separate. Frankly it is the best sometimes, as it can be far worse for a child to see their parents argue constantly, or try to grasp why they seem to not spend much time together, if they can help it.

Other times... Well, to use myself as an example, my mother only stuck around until a little after I were born, then abandoned me with my father. She had gotten what she wanted from him at that point, and cared little for me. This is a situation which he could no control, and it left him the sole parent of me. I hadn't even seen her, before we found her. In some ways, I wonder if that were not the one kindness she actually showed both my brother and I. Not taking us with her, at least left us with a chance for a life. With her, we would likely have been simple pawns, like my father were...

*sigh* He were not perfect, but he did the best he could, with the cards he had been dealt."

And Rosa wished dearly that he could do something for him in turn, even if he knew it were impossible.

Thankfully, the talk and antics around them, made for good distractions, that kept him from thinking too much on this grim line of thought. So instead, he'd be able to focus on the continuing conversation, and a slice of pie more. Had to eat well while you had the chance, and it would be a shame to let these go stale.

On 1/28/2021 at 11:45 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Respectful bowing aside, a meeting with the elder is considered a formal affair. The longma are distrustful of outsiders, and aside from letting your actions speak for you, let your words mean what you say. Figurative expressions are not a thing to the longma, so one’s words must mean exactly as how they are said. Oh, and being patient about time also helps. That part allows the elder to consider everything that comes into making a decision, even if it takes longer than expected.” 

"Fascinating. So I would do best, in being direct, respectful, and try to decrease the amount of non-important talk, so we could get faster to the point? All whilst of course, presenting no hostile actions. I can do humble and neutral fairly well, though my words of warning will have to be spoken with some gravitas. Perhaps with documented evidence as well? Hmm... I don't think it would be easy to have you be as neutral in their presence, due to your history with your tribe, but it shouldn't be too difficult to have you find some examples of some of the things I warned Ghilan about. There are many documented cases as the varied illnesses, and aftermaths of bugbears. As well as detailed descriptions of everything. Which yes, includes rather grizzly images. It may be pertinent to get hold of some of that.

What I hear most of all though, is that one should be patient, and not push them out of impatience, yes? If they say they need to discuss things first, one shouldn't push against that, or make constant inquiries about their progress, I take it? As well as having the patience to let them deliberate as the meeting goes along? Sounds normal for a council of generally elder beings, deliberating as a council. Always adds more time, and it rarely goes well if you test them, by being impatient, and claiming your time is more worthwhile, than what they are discussing.

With a few exceptions that is. I know of a few leaders who will deliberately begin to drag things out, to see if those they speak with, have the spine to object to it. A matter of not wanting to deal with weak-willed politicians, who have it all in their muzzles. Some sort of combat tends to also be part of the ordeal after that, if you pass that test though, to varied degrees. I recall one place that required you to fell a wild boar, to be able to bring something before their leader. It were a... Special bunch to mingle with, to say it kindly."

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@Midnight_Aurora

On 1/28/2021 at 12:33 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

"It could be a friend's smell. There is still much I don't rightly know. Let's just see where this trail I am following leads."

**Eventually it would lead her towardd either the Golden Oaks Library or crystal castle.** (Depending on if and when the events involving Tirek happened.)

There were a few changelings in Ponyville, that traversed the town. One were hidden, whilst the other were hidden. The shark mare would wander towards the one she could see, as it reminded her of Cacora's smell, but he took off rather quickly, and the smell wasn't completely right either, so she let him go. Though her tail did wag a little as she saw him take off, and she briefly had the want to chase him down. She were still a predator after all, even if she knew ponies were not on the menu. A friendly chase would be okay though, right?

The other one she'd only get a whiff off, before they went away from them, and it were weaker. Hence she ended up just following Cacora, until she reached the currently empty castle. Princess Twilight were still out and deal with something with her trial guard, so to speak, and had yet returned. Spike would still be here if it were though. As would the weird garden the castle now had, which seemed to have varied bubble creatures floating through the air, herding benches, and a large tree, with a myriad of varied fruits on it, that shouldn't be able to exist on the same tree. There were also a good deal of flowery bushes, and a nice, granite path through the garden, so you could enjoy it all around the castle. Including the fountain, with a fish statue on top, which seemed to be making faces at them.

"*sniff* *sniff* Smell d-raa... Dra-cooo... Head friend."

Draconequus were too hard a word for her right now, so instead, she'd indicate an overly large head with her right, front hoof. She'd follow Cacora though, instead of going closer to this. At least currently.

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

On 1/28/2021 at 12:33 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

"This is where I heard about Spell Matrices this time around. But then I drank a memory restoration potion and regained a number of memories more than I had been awakened to. Knowledge is a powerful tool should it be used right. And for me it seems that Spell Matrices are the only way my power can stabilize and be wield-able normally. The Spell Matrix itself would only be a foundation for the formation of my spells, if my memory serves me right. I have a number of these scrolls from the cult. Many of them don't feel like they should be available to the untrained on this world. I want to bring them to the sisters for consideration and safe keeping but my magical instability, and my own currently personal desire to not see the sun and moon, prevents me from attempting the trip."

**When he says the last few sentences, he also points to a sack holding a number of scrolls.** "I took them from the cult so they didn't get themselves killed or worse, bring true darkness upon this world. A world protected by The Four Council and this world's All-Mother Alicorn."

"If you get yourself a pass from Princess Cadence, I will be able to share what I know of those things, though not before. Such are my contract, and I should know well. I methodically instructed her how to make it myself, to ensure there were no loopholes."

Demons could generally not be trusted to make their own contracts, as they'd leave themselves too much leeway, but the draft that Cadence had presented her with after freeing her, were laughable. There were too many situations where Vivid might be able to kill indisciminately, long as she covered it under a myriad of subsections, that technically made it okay. What happened when you only used a meter of scroll to sign a contract with any sort of demonic entities.

The scroll she had gotten them to sign at the end, could easily encompass their entire castle, and were too heavy for one pony to carry. Yet as those they had to look it over had to agree with too, the coverage were excessive, to the point of ludicrously specific at times, with sub-sections they had not even thought of, even if it made sense in hindsight. It gave Vivid some credibility to do this, though mostly, she wanted this contract to be made as it were, for her own sake. She had her... Bad days, and the contract meant that even if she lost herself in some emotional distress, she couldn't even accidentally kill somepony. It would physically stop her, as intended.

As for Silver, she'd look briefly over what he presented, but she couldn't say what were in the scrolls, so his words were unproven. Still, if he spoke the truth, it were best to keep them away indeed. Not something that should go into the wrong hooves.

"When you mention The Four Council, are you talking of the Elemental Elders? If not, you should remember those, as well as Karma. It is not wise to ignore the two main factions, dealing with the grand balance. Very bad things could happen, if they thought it needed to keep the world balanced.

In any case, cults should not have spells of power. They rarely use them well, and at best, would only hurt themselves. Rarely stops that easily though, does it?"

She'd send him a knowing look as they kept wandering. She had seen several things, and this were not her first cult. She had seen things. Sometimes even caused them, back when she were chained by demons, and forced to do their bidding. Quite a few dark things they had her do then, which thus far, the world seemed to thankfully have forgotten.

On 1/28/2021 at 12:33 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

**To this Silverwing says,** "Your right. Normally one wouldn't remember their past existences when they undergo Rebirth. But a spiritual awakening to their chain of memories will allow one to remember. I have already under gone such an awakening. That's why the name Silverwing is so strongly connected to me. Also true rebirth and phoenix rebirth aren't all that different. The symbol for rebirth, where I originally am from, is the mythical Phoenix and if I understand Ancient Celestial as correctly as my memory is reciting it for me to understand, then I can say that my true name translates into one word....Rebirth. Plus Phoenix is just another language's word for Rebirth or to be reborn again."

**He then contemplates his next words carefully, before saying,**

"All beings and things are born. All beings and things live. All beings and things will eventually die. All beings and things are unified in death, only to be reborn again. The cycle of Rebirth in a nutshell."

"You live, you die, you move on, and eventually, you are reborn. That is how it should optimally be. Though sometimes, some are stuck here, for whatever reason, and disrupts their cycle. I know of it Even before this, I worked to guide those along to the next step. I have seen glimpses into the afterlife from that, but it is but a light, far from my reach. It felt peaceful though. Except for those who were wicked. For them, waits only Hades and his tormentors. Nothing good radiates from that harrowed light, and those sent to it knows it.

Still, as you say, some repeat the cycle within their own grand cycle. In time, you will die a final death too, and be reborn as an untainted soul. Though as it is, I will concur that you might be aware of many smaller cycles before you, as the phoenixes are.

I find myself jealous of yours. My soul is too tainted by now, from millennia of these dark powers, and regaining shape within the veil, when my physical form were laid low. When my time are truly at an end one day, it will become fully demonic. Where your path takes you, is outside of my reach. As one who have seen several underworlds, populated by demons of many kinds, I can assure you that even for the inhabitants, it isn't always that nice of a place. It depends on how one carves out their little nook and cranny, and makes use of it."

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

 

@Califorum

On 1/27/2021 at 10:10 PM, Califorum said:

"That is quite...disturbing and disgusting if anything. I never delved into Soul magic or necromancy, rather just the draining of magic itself to increase my own strength. And shadow magic, not dark magic of that type. I would never do such a thing...if anything I'd only scare those into submission with my power." Magnolia had clarified. She was never one to mess around with that sort of magic and deadly curses of that nature. She wasn't stupid or bold enough to do such things.

"As said, it were a cautionary tale of what might happen, if one goes beyond the limits of what is acceptable darkness, and dives into the deep end. Not saying that necromancy can not be done in a beneficial, kind way though. There are ways, though none of those includes resurrection attempts. That is the sacrificial part, and there is after all a reason why sacrificial magic is outlawed throughout most of the known world."

As she talked, another cat entered the room. This one a nearly full black cat, that did not go over and rub up against anypony, like the orange tabby were. In fact, due to the attention that one had gotten, it kept rubbing against Magnolia, and purring. This other one though, just stood and starred at them in complete silence. A sight which seemed to make Scarcity's smile falter a minor amount.

On 1/27/2021 at 10:10 PM, Califorum said:

Although Magnolia seemed to inch in her chair closer to Zeehva. Zeehva was the only one she trusted and related to. She had to ask though, "Who set you up for this...meeting?" Magnolia asked awkwardly, yet Scarcity could probably tell that she were nervous of the idea of meeting with someone who was hunting her down. She was sure they were quite powerful and Magnolia no longer had the power she had stolen.

"That would be My boss."

The voice would come behind Scarcity, who seemed to have her smile falter further. Whoever this were, she did not appear pleased about this fact. Neither did Zeehva, who also recognized the one the two of them could actually look at, and seemed as if she were worried about that fact.

"Sonata, Falsetto, come here girls."

The cats would wander over to him, with the tabby rubbing itself on him, whilst the black cat just wandered more seriously at his side. Both of them would gt a few well deserved pats, for being such good, obedient cats.

"Operata Symphonia. What stone have you crawled out from underneath?"

"Sounds like somepony knows my name. Yet not a fan? Tsk tsk. Such a pity. But I'm not here to speak with you primarily anyway. My message is for the other one."

He'd use his horn to swipe a letter from within his suit, and have it land carelessly in front of Magnolia.

"Summoning letter. The boss wants you to keep it with you, and think about it. Burn it if you want though. Please. The Masked Council might send me to catch you more directly then, and I do so yearn for a little fun challenge. I'm sure you can bring your ward if you want. Rock Cruncher mentioned her as potentially useful to the cause. Something about gathering up magic."

He seemed to not much care for his job here, beyond the things he had been sent directly to mention, as ordered.

"A pity that one of their more charismatic members were not available."

"Not charismatic? Why, you hurt me, Scarcity. Have I not always been a gentlecolt to you?"

"After your last reprimande? Yes."

"Tsk. A minor understanding. Falsetto just wanted to play a little.

In any case, I am supposed to answer questions if this one have it. Magnolia, were it? The council is clear on this: I'm supposed to answer things, and my girls are not allowed to play rough with you."

"You best not. Magnolia is... S-She's my friend. I won't let you, or your pets hurt her."

"And in turn, I will make your world miserable, if you hurt my darling girls. Good to know where we have one another, mon cheri."

He'd give her a sly, flirtatious look and grin, which did not work. It seemed this one were not well liked, though he were rather arrogant too. That might be one of the reasons. Magnolia might more focus though, on how Zeehva had straight up called her her friend now. That might brighten her day up a little.

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

 

@abrony-mouse

On 1/27/2021 at 9:15 PM, abrony-mouse said:

"Great! Count to 60... no peeking." she half-teases - she had tried this on a few ponies, both adult and younger... and it was the older ones who tended to peek  She soft hoofedly scuttles to the edge of the camp.

Fuchsia uses her knowledge of the area round the camp, gained when she had scoped it out before. She discounts a few of the more obvious bushes and goes for a trench in the boggy jungle ground, that had formed in the root system of two adjacent jungle trees. It was shielded by undergrowth from direct view of the camp, but would allow her glimpses of his movement and was close by, allowing for a surprise leap out if her prey gave her the opportunity.

She doesn't have much time, but she softly piles jungle debris on top of her lithe body and lies as flat as possible in the boggy ground. Once the count is up she will hope her hiding place resists his initial survey and bide her time while he explores alternative hiding places, waiting for the perfect opportunity to jump out >:3

Smokey wouldn't cheat. He'd patiently, and calmly, count to 60, with his back turned and eyes closed.

After the count were done as well, he wouldn't cheat via magic, and would instead wander around calmly, trying to keep his ears on stilts to register if there came some sort of sound that he could go by.

She blended in fantastically well he'd say, because he couldn't see her. Granted, he weren't as his very best, but still. You'd think her usually bright colors would mean that something would show. This were frankly very impressive work.

He'd be wandering towards the tent first, to check behind that, unless he heard a branch break, or some other form of indicator that she were elsewhere. It would truly come down to whatever or not Fuchsia were able to keep her sound down. Or even take advantage of it, by making a sound elsewhere, to distract him.

"Impressive work hiding your colors in the fauna, madamme. I can't spot a speck of the mare I saw before, and with your base colors, that is commendable work. Though I am not surrendering yet. I'll find you, sooner or later"

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

 

@Kujamih @Windy Breeze @Califorum

On 1/27/2021 at 10:10 PM, Califorum said:

Cali would raise an eyebrow at Blitz. "...Fine. Lets see what you got." he relented and followed her outside. She looked at the fireworks with interest. "Tell me...what type of firework are those?"

"Forest stuff. Like sparkle bugs, color leaves, and snappy flowers. All sorta things in the Everfree Forest I can make go boom in pretty colors. I made for my idol, and she got really happy seeing it! It was a great day, hehe.

Making fireworks is a fun thing. Nopony hates fireworks, if it's done good. So I make sure it'd real good. Still gotta make better with the heads. They need faces to be perfect, and Pinkie Pie deserves perfect."

She were gleefully clapping her little hooves at the thought of that day. Been a happy, happy time for sure, and one she hoped to repeat at least a little someday soon. Pinkie Parties were amazing.

On 1/28/2021 at 11:44 AM, Kujamih said:

"... Sure why not."

As Light, Cali and Blitz went out to light some fireworks, Nostalgia kicks in. Remembering when Light's life was peaceful.

"... Hmm..."

"See? Mistah Shiny also likes what he sees. Fireworks are a happy, happy thing for everypony!"

She bounced over and affectionately rubbed the side of her face against his legs, as if she were a cat. She frankly only missed the purring at this point, though that were currently not happening. At times though, she did have a tendency to let out a sound that were close too that.

On 1/29/2021 at 2:09 AM, Windy Breeze said:

She turned to Light “Skin care? Interesting. I'm always curious of how everypony take care of their own body other than trimming their coats and styling their manes and tails, and may I know what virgin oil is made from?”

"Oh, I was just messing about when I mentioned the oiling up, but y'know, there's an oil for every sort out there. Motor oil for machines, olive oil for the special sorts, bath oils for some others, and so on. Me? I like myself a good pomegrandade oil, in a good tub. Good cup of bath salts while one's at it too, and a good back crack if it's at a pro spa. Really helps just crushing those tensions outta ya.

Blitz is simpler. Give her a rubber ducky, some empty grenades and a tub, and she's set for a good half hour or so.

Anyway, if you folks wanna try a place with some good oils, you gotta go down main street, and pop in to Grease Monkey. He's a lil' special, but if there's a oil for anything, he'll have it, or can get it within a week. A good spa in town's also to be found, if you wanna swing by Bubble Stream's place. Nice fellah, and so are his employees. Ain't got a bad word about any of 'em."

Heh, just look at them. Talking oils and stuff. How had things gotten so derailed? Frankly he didn't know, but hey, whatever floated the boat, right? They had to keep the mood smooth, to avoid any sort of bad things going on with the two wonky ones, from a world beyond. He'd really prefer not having to go knock on at the O.M.I. and tell them that he may have a few extradimensional folks causing a mess in town.

On 1/29/2021 at 2:09 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Luna snorted “Trying hard to make your gift perfect is a sign of an undying loyalty. I like it” she let out a short laugh when Molotov talks about her job, “Don't worry, I'm a night guard. I don't always have to stand around like lifeless pony statues in a well-designed garden. Before I serve the princess, I serve to protect my own town from stray wild animals, I mostly patrol the streets surrounding the town hall”

"And right, not ignoring you Luna, just figured I'd sort this talk first, y'know? Anyway, bit of a perfectionist yeah. Can you imagine how it'd look if I presented something for her majesty, then it turned out that it weren't working? Or accidentally exploding? My ancestors would turn in their urns, if I went and did something that dumb.

And sure am loyal. My several-times-great grandfather, were a brilliant pony, but didn't have a bit to his name. Went everywhere, but couldn't get anypony to take him serious enough to finance his inventions. Princess Celestia herself bit note in what he could do though, and made sure he got properly funded. Were it not for her, we wouldn't have gotten anywhere, so frankly, most of us consider it an ancestral debt to give her 110%, and show her that the Boom family always were, and always will be, both loyal, and worth her time.

As a Night Guard, you get the point of loyalty for sure, right? Never met one who weren't staunch in their defense of Princess Luna. After she returned, anyway. But you say you rummage around and patrol the town hall, eh? Heard some unsavory types waddles aroud there sometimes. Ever had to deal with a real nasty one?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

 

Light laughed at Molotov for taking him seriously about the oil.

" Hahaha hey i know it was a joke, and i replied back to you is also a joke... I didn't expect you to take it seriously. And besides.. i prefer not to oil my parts... So the pain and agony will become my constant reminder of my past."

 

Light tried to not get too attached to the filly... But who could resist her innocence. Not even Cali could resist Blitz charm... Is what Light thought.

".. Hey Blitz? You ever want to be a hero like pinkie pie? A hero that not only spread peace, but happiness and laughter?"

[Octavian 5,421]

@Blitz Boom

16 minutes ago, Blitz Boom said:

Smokey wouldn't cheat. He'd patiently, and calmly, count to 60, with his back turned and eyes closed.

After the count were done as well, he wouldn't cheat via magic, and would instead wander around calmly, trying to keep his ears on stilts to register if there came some sort of sound that he could go by.

She blended in fantastically well he'd say, because he couldn't see her. Granted, he weren't as his very best, but still. You'd think her usually bright colors would mean that something would show. This were frankly very impressive work.

He'd be wandering towards the tent first, to check behind that, unless he heard a branch break, or some other form of indicator that she were elsewhere. It would truly come down to whatever or not Fuchsia were able to keep her sound down. Or even take advantage of it, by making a sound elsewhere, to distract him.

"Impressive work hiding your colors in the fauna, madamme. I can't spot a speck of the mare I saw before, and with your base colors, that is commendable work. Though I am not surrendering yet. I'll find you, sooner or later"

Fuchsia smiled as she heard him call out to her, gauging where he was. She was glad that her sharp eye didn't spot any peaking or tell-tale magical aura. He really did seem a trustworthy sort.

Anyway, he wasn't about to gallop around the bushes looking for her giving her an easy target - but she hadn't expected him to. How to draw him near? She gets an idea. As quietly as she can, keeping an eye on him and stopping when he is close, she begins to bunch up a mud clod in her hoof ready to flick it to a nearby bush to create a distraction. 

As she lay there in the dirt, she also reflected on how much fun it was to meet another pony after the long days on the road. Sharing tails, comparing travels, cooking and now playing together :3 she had a good feeling about this stallion. Also, in the stillness of the jungle, punctuated by whoops of birds and the hum of insects, she relished their surroundings - its exoticness and the intrigue of the nearby temple. 

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Blitz Boom

Quickly gulping down the ice cream down to her stomach, Windy replied “Sure!” in a cheery tone.

However, outside. Bad news for Razor, his eyes widened in recognition upon seeing Shackles, Flinty, and Blunt, the latter staring into nothing as if he was daydreaming. They looked around, searching for something. As they entered a shop next to the restaurant where Sorrow, Windy, and Tepe are in, he quickly went to warn them. This time, he went through the window

“Hurry, the danger is nearby!" He yelled at them. Tepe stood up, confused.

“Danger? What kind of danger, sir?”

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih @Califorum

Luna cringed at the thought of Molotov's gift blowing up in front of Celestia's face, which could be the most embarrassing, plus be humiliated for unintentionally bringing harm to the same alicorn who helped him and his family.

But her ears perked when she heard him talk about her job again, about her loyalty and Princess Luna and another about her former job, which confuses her.

“The highness is the reason why we had magnificent night skies and taking out the nightmares as we sleep, I would like to pay the debt by serving her with all my life"

She decided to ignore the last question, and covered it up with more explanation, “I once don't appreciate the night and I hated taking the night shift back when I was a town guard in my place of birth. Before she arrive, it was nothing but pitch black, scattered stars with no patterns, and something vandalized the moon with a pony face. But suddenly, all of it changed and I began to like the night”

Edited February 3, 2021 by Windy Breeze

[Midnight_Aurora 571]

@Blitz Boom

Cacora's PoV

**Cacora observes the actions of those around her. She also observes via Empathy their emotional awareness. While her path does lead her to the castle. Those who left drew her curiosity. But something more draws her further forward.**

'I'll Check on these ones later. First this path. Curiosity requires completion.' **Cacora thinks to herself before continuing on.**

**Cacora says to the being,** "A potential friend? Maybe they may know what I seek. Why don't you lead? You know the scent better than I do. I would like to met this being you describe."

**Cacora then makes to follow the shark like pony. At least it's a path that may lead to some answers. She does look towards the castle. But being a curious being. She usually let's her curiosity guide her steps.**

Silverwing's PoV

**Silverwing contemplates what he hears and then says about the princess of Love/Crystal Princess,** "Mi Amorè Cadenza, also known as Princess Cadence. The current ruler of the Crystal Empire and guardian of the Crystal Heart. If I am also not mistaken, she has a daughter, with Shining Armor, called Flurry Heart. That is something I hope is accurate. I was hoping she might be of help in some way, as long as the sisters of the sun and moon don't learn I have come back."

**He then thinks for a moment about the cycle and the ones mentioned.** "The Four Council is the children of Father Light for whom which all creation came to be. Lunaria, the star of creation. Cosmo, the star of Existence. Souliana, the star of destruction. Al'Shinar, the star of Unity. Anihalar, the star of Annialation. Then lastly the Star of Rebirth. One whose name is only recorded as Rebirth. These are the four council I speak of. But don't get me wrong, I am no God amongst mortals. I am a child of creation just like any other, awaiting my time to fulfill my purpose. But yes, I have heard of them. But I have also heard of the All-Mother Alicorn and her Tarot Council of Alicorns. Many of whom have been forgotten by most. Two of which reside within Equestria at this time as shadows of their former selves."

**As she speaks of their paths leading different ways, he listens and then when she finishes, he says,** "Not precisely accurate but close. Every soul had a number of lessons it must learn. The lives lived learns a number of these lessons. You, my dear, are not one who should consider themselves bound to a fate that can't be changed. All paths are possible and no matter how tainted by the children of the darker realms you may be, a light I still see shining within you. Mother Void can't claim those bound within the light. The final end for all who are truly tainted of the darkness itself. As for your place in creations greater plans, I know not. Only your own soul would know that answer. My path ends when all creation has been truly reborn. That is my purpose and my true name. But more on that at a later time."

**Silverwing then stands from his makeshift camp and says,** "Would it be possible to seek her majisty, Lady Cadenza's aid? Maybe she will allow this old one a moment's time before the Crystal Heart. I know how to reclaim 'The Ever Living Spell Matrix' from it without harming it or it's purpose. I just need to see it to know. That or having an exchange with the sisters, for the book I previously mentioned. Spell Matrices 101: An introductory Guide to All things Spell Matrix. Would either be viable? I can hold off my next Mana surge a little longer for it."

 

Edited February 2, 2021 by Midnight_Aurora

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

Sen remembered the implications behind Rosa’s words… about his mother and how that turned out. It felt like a distant memory once before it all came rushing back. Circumstances notwithstanding, it was still a terrible thing, parents leaving for one reason or another. Even if there was a shred of kindness hidden under those things, it may only be that way in hindsight or if somepony really thought about it real hard.

From here, the siblings would keep the conversation going on their other topic, out of respect of Rosa and his personal thoughts. Bringing this up further could cause some unnecessary heartache, and this evening wasn’t the time for it. Sen continued munching on his slice of pie before moving on to something new, while Lin would grab the remnants of the pineapple pie she split between herself and Shrimp. 

“I’m sure the elders will appreciate meeting someone who can help them make sense of the outside world. That is, if they are considerate enough to get out of their ‘not-our-problem' mentality. Not all of them are like that, but most of them are.”

“You got the basics, Rosa. Give the elders time to understand and be sincere with your words. They could come around to something new. I’m sure that might be a nice change of pace from violent ordeals, right?”

“Oh, before I forget. You may also want to be aware that the elders could summon a lot of guards to watch you, even while discussing things with them. That does not happen when elders meet among themselves or with fellow longma, but with foreign creatures… it’s something to expect.” Lin jovially added, though there was probably some truth to her words. 

No elder had dealt with foreign creatures, so it wouldn’t be out of the question to expect that kind of response. Security is one thing, but having a whole detail watching your every move is something else. Some would say they’re lucky they got the treatment, but having a whole group of longma with spears just waiting for you to make a mistake is no joke. It’s like a pack of wolves circling their prey, one wrong move could spell disaster. 

“Out of curiosity, have you dealt with difficult leaders in the past? Do you have any experience with someone who just got on your nerves?”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,599]

@Blitz Boom
Luckily for Leviathan, her accident went seemingly unnoticed as Charir and Ruby had their focus elsewhere, mainly the roar, though Ruby was also still busy with her meal, a simple roar didn't startle her enough to interrupt her, she was too used to such noises. Charir stopped what he was doing and sharpened his senses, scanning the area with all of his senses for threats, this was an instinctual reaction, since loud roar usually meant a big dragon, or in case big chimera. He looked around a bit before looking at Ruby and Leviathan in that order, and if Leviathan was still dealing with the frozen meal, he would be bit confused but wouldn't judge her. 

Ruby tossed what was left aside and stood up straight, opening her airways as much as she could "Then let's play." she then let out a roar of her own, which was quite impressive for her size, after which she cleared her throat few times and let out a small flame from her mouth "It has been a while since I last roared, I'm bit out of practice." It had impressed Charir at least, as the poor dragon was frozen in fear for a while before he realized it had been Ruby that had done it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
When they were spotted, Scarecrow did his usual nod-greeting.

Scarecrow didn't really buy the part about hawks, mostly because the mare's eyes were directly towards him and not Crow, he may have lacked eyes himself, but he still knew how they worked., so he knew when someone stared at him and not past him. "Don't worry, It'll stick with me." he simply said, the meaning being quite more literal than one would think. The good thing about not knowing how to move his face was that Scarecrow didn't accidentally show his suspicion through movement of his eyes or other such things. 

He quickly dug through his limited memories as deeply as he could, trying to figure out if he was supposed to recognize this mare from somewhere, but as to be expected, there was no sign of her in his mind, besides of course their earlier meeting.

---------------------------------------------------------------
"If I wanted to get a connection, I wouldn't be here talking to you about a broken piece of dungeon, only thing related to the systems I may do is to find the generators and make sure they will never again turn on." Solar said, showing the first hint of real emotion in form of slight frustration "That aside, the possibility of open gateway and other creatures from our world is exactly why I'm investigating every lead, I have no experience on magical portals as luckily the sisters are yet to figure that out in our Equestria, so that part is dealt with by someone who knows more about that, I only look into things I know, and since currently I am the one with most information about our world, my job is to evaluate the threat posed by things related to it." "I will of course be joining the body-retrieval troop, as there's potential threats outside this worlds understanding." 

The siblings stayed quiet as they were interested on what the guard had to say, because even if they didn't trust him, they knew that he was currently their only source of information when it came to things related to their arrival here.

"I have no plans to drag them anywhere, they'll be staying in the hospital as long as they need to, and after that, I don't know, as I'm not the one who's responsibility that will be." "You will be seeing me around though, as I will be helping with their adaptation into this world, both for their and this world's safety, since especially the first weeks will be challenging, I know from experience." 

"Also, while it is one of the least insulting things I have been called, I'm no golem, I'm natural born pegasus, The Solar Army just has required upgrades one has to take in their body to get where I was, that's why I'm only half natural now." 

he then started to head out "And before I leave, I'm sure you're curious even if you didn't ask, your species, changelings, they no longer exist in our world, you were wiped out long before I was born. Not only are you extinct, most don't know you even existed in the first place, as the sisters felt that you're not worth putting into history books." he then gave a annoyingly friendly smile "Also, you probably should let the doctors and nurses do their jobs, based on your actions towards me and the lack of guard on the door, I'd say it's safe to guess that you have been....hindering them." he then left if he wasn't stopped. 

 

Assuming he was allowed to leave, after he was gone, both Trox and Sheska let out a relieved sigh, and Sheska said after few profanities "They look.. lot worse.. from close." to which Trox continued "And scarily similar... to the Nightmares." 

 

[Sekel 693]

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE & ATZY

"What was that about?" Karmic asked in surprise to the empty air, watching Mind Reaper depart. She glanced at the general and her ears flicked a bit. She sighed and went up to Enzo, carefully walking around his paws before looking up. She was only slightly surprised Atzy stuck around when she noticed her atop Enzo's shoulder. "Did you two talk to that odd changeling?"

"We did, well, I did, and she has some odd things to say," Atzy replied and had a realisation. "Oh, she's actually gone. We can go to the city proper now!"

"It's not that great, pretty overrated," Karmic muttered under her breath.

@Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"They're both right, we need to leave anyway," Twilight said, all business-like, and didn't let the sudden death of the creature in front of her affect her concentration. She made sure Cherish's stick was still within her saddlebags along with the vial of hair samples from Marepunzel. Nodding a bit to herself, Twilight lit her horn up in a purple hue and looked at Last and the Manetid.

"If you happen to be in my teleportation field, Manetid, I'm sorry for the sudden teleportation," she told the flying bug thing and cast the spell. Twilight, Last, the Manetid, and Cherish all vanished from the tower in a burst of purple light and arrived back in the library of her castle mere seconds later. Twilight groaned slightly from the exertion and shut her eyes at the pain.

"Please tell me we all made it back. I don't want to go back!" Twilight complained and waited for the others to answer without opening her eyes. "Cherish? Last? You're both here?"

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"I've never seen or heard of whatever this is, okay!?" Aurora shrieked at Happy, obviously very shaken still from the spider incident and quickly ran after Lulu. She has never run into a draconequus before and was really wishing she had stayed home instead of travelling Equestria at the moment.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2/2/2021 at 5:19 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

he then started to head out "And before I leave, I'm sure you're curious even if you didn't ask, your species, changelings, they no longer exist in our world, you were wiped out long before I was born. Not only are you extinct, most don't know you even existed in the first place, as the sisters felt that you're not worth putting into history books." he then gave a annoyingly friendly smile "Also, you probably should let the doctors and nurses do their jobs, based on your actions towards me and the lack of guard on the door, I'd say it's safe to guess that you have been....hindering them." he then left if he wasn't stopped.

Onache had remained neutral through most of this, and simply nodded along when needed. Seemed like this one would trespass on her domain soon enough, along with some others following him. A time to prepare for eventually, or she could simply just scour her temple afterwards, to remove whatever they might have left. Likely the safer option, and she were not truly in a position to take too many risks, seeing as her only hive member, were currently off dealing with an issue, as well as potentially get them connected to a more influential hive.

She had things to say of a few other things too, including when he explained himself to not be a golem, and revealed that he were instead changed by the guards from his reality. Something which nearly made her scoff, as she considered that to be a pathetic move on that other guard's behalf. She may be all for changing forms, but this sort of forced augmentation, were beyond what she considered acceptable.

But then, he got to his last point, and her priority of things to respond to shifted. Why, she even got a small smile on her face as she heard him proclaim her kind to be extinct in his world. How adorably short-sighted.

"We are spread through the known world, and can adapt to most environments, long as there is life, so I find the notion that we do not exist to be laughable. Have they checked every ocean for us? Every cave, desert and snowy mountain? They may have been succesful in forcing my kind to abandon ponies as prey, and cities in general, but I wouldn't be so certain that there are none of us hidden somewhere, in some form. We are not an easy infestation to deal with."

She knew a hive that primarily dealt in dealing with watery creatures, so they spend most of their life in the ocean, and she herself, had been in a large, seemingly inhospitable desert. Others went for caves going deep, deep into the soil, sand so on. Most changelings that were known of, were the more forthcoming like Chrysalis and Thorax, but there were many that did not seek to be found, and most managed to make it. It depended on how well they could regulate their hive size, compared to available prey.

Though of course, their kind may well be gone in that other world. It just seemed a ludicrous notion to her that every single one were gone, even if it were clear that if there were some, they were loitering in the shadows, and had accepted that were their lot in life.

"As for the hospital ponies here I only scour their minds, and make them disinterested in asking too much. I don't stop them in doing any important tasks.

Furthermore, I would like to state a few things to you: First off being that your princess in the other lands, sounds like a weakling, if she forces this distasteful augmentation on her troops. A real leader should be above that, and trust in the strength they inspire. This? This is one wandering the same steps as the golem-makers, in the worst ways. Distasteful practice through and through.

The second is simple: These creatures came to in my domain, so if you wander around them, know that I will be there too. I am not finding you to be overly trustworthy currently. Which is something I don't need to scour your mind to find, are mutual. And to some extend, warranted."

It were the last she had to say to him, before he left, and the three of them were left by their lonesome again.

On 2/2/2021 at 5:19 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Assuming he was allowed to leave, after he was gone, both Trox and Sheska let out a relieved sigh, and Sheska said after few profanities "They look.. lot worse.. from close." to which Trox continued "And scarily similar... to the Nightmares."

"I take it the Nightmares, are your version of the Night Guard? Your world truly sounds as if depravity rules it in full. Queen Agnostica would be gleeful, were she faced with this. She have a certain... Fascination, in dismantling leadership, and playing various forces against one another. Troublesome little thing speaks, and disorder follows.

Be that as it may, what are your thoughts on what were said here? I have no reason to trust him, but for the time being, I have no reason to push for one outcome or another. Though if he does work with our Princess Celestia, I can imagine running away will cause some sort of search party to come for you."

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2/2/2021 at 2:58 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’m sure the elders will appreciate meeting someone who can help them make sense of the outside world. That is, if they are considerate enough to get out of their ‘not-our-problem' mentality. Not all of them are like that, but most of them are.”

“You got the basics, Rosa. Give the elders time to understand and be sincere with your words. They could come around to something new. I’m sure that might be a nice change of pace from violent ordeals, right?”

“Oh, before I forget. You may also want to be aware that the elders could summon a lot of guards to watch you, even while discussing things with them. That does not happen when elders meet among themselves or with fellow longma, but with foreign creatures… it’s something to expect.” Lin jovially added, though there was probably some truth to her words.

"The outside world will eventually become their problem, no matter what they wish for. The question is only if they will be prepared for it when it is, or only be learned about after the fact.

As for guards keeping me in check, I expect nothing less than that, as well as a thorough search, to make sure I don't carry any weapons ion me. Quite frankly, I would comment on the shoddy security if they didn't do that, as they do not know me, and what my motives may be. It could well play into my hooves as well, if I comply, and are not shown to have any sort of weaponry on me when I approach. It will make my intentions somewhat more meaningful, I would suppose. Or if not that, at least make them feel as if they have the upper hoof. A secure position that might make them more willing to listen to me, rather than be constantly weary."

Blueberry pie were really helping his mood rise from where the conversation had gone before. As did it to speak about something more important, and calming than his past. Or well, what he considered to be more calming at least.

And he wasn't the only one enjoying a good chat and some food right now. Omen were listening in too after all, and trying to get what they were on about, whilst chewing the pie box. And Shrimp were enjoying the half slice of pie he were given too, with great delight. Were he not busy stuffing himself with this food, he'd likely be giving a happy noodle dance. Maybe once he were done showing down, though he'd likely go and rest some more after that. Typical little ones really. Eating, sleeping, and occasionally playing.

On 2/2/2021 at 2:58 PM, EQ_Theta said:

 

“Out of curiosity, have you dealt with difficult leaders in the past? Do you have any experience with someone who just got on your nerves?”

"Normally, I did not deal with leadership. It makes one too public, which tends to go against subtle jobs.

Though I do recall a few yes, with likely the worst one being a particularly annoying minotaur elder.

Their kind values strength over all, and have little tolerance for pure speech and bravado. It is very frustrating to try and speak reason with someone, who then openly ignores it, or outright mocks you. I admit that while I am usually in control of myself, I lost my temper with him, and I may have inadvertently ended up challenging him to a fight, with a rather poor choice of words.

He broke pretty much every bone he could, without actually killing me, and I had to spend two months in a full body cast. But at least it weren't a complete loss, as apparently, it lead to him gaining a little more respect for me, from not attempting to take off after the first few hits. Managed to get my task completed after all, though I still get the urge to go back there sometimes, and trying again. As said, he were a very frustrating, traditional git."

Soon as they were done eating, they could go and do a variety of things. Including going to see if there were a show starting soon, in case they wanted to see what Hive Cheshire else had in their portfolio.

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

On 2/2/2021 at 3:44 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

**Cacora says to the being,** "A potential friend? Maybe they may know what I seek. Why don't you lead? You know the scent better than I do. I would like to met this being you describe."

"Find head friend? Smell in forest. We hunt?"

If Cacora said yes, then the mare would turn around and walk towards the forest again. She weren't exactly sure where that one were, but she had smelled the strange creature that brought her here in there, when she had been walking towards town. She hadn't wanted to chase her though. The town had many more interesting things, like the ponies. She were like them now too, so she had to learn from them, yes? That's why she fluttered around looking, and in cases like this, attached herself to one's presence, that seemed like she had been seeking her out before.

If Cacora were not interested in leaving though, she'd stick around, and see what else she might want to do. Though she might also potentially go and chase a bench for fun, in case the pony looked like she were going to stand and do lots of thinking for now.

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

On 2/2/2021 at 3:44 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

"Mi Amorè Cadenza, also known as Princess Cadence. The current ruler of the Crystal Empire and guardian of the Crystal Heart. If I am also not mistaken, she has a daughter, with Shining Armor, called Flurry Heart. That is something I hope is accurate. I was hoping she might be of help in some way, as long as the sisters of the sun and moon don't learn I have come back."

"Flurry Heart... Such a pure, innocent little soul she is."

Vivid smiled a little to herself, as she remembered the last time she had been around Flurry. It were not much, as her parents were still not too sure about her, but as a mother herself, Vivid's advice on certain things to do with foals, had been welcomed, and Flurry herself had never felt badly around her either. In fact, the little filly had been happy to see her most times, and come over to blabber about, and get hugged. She were such an unjudging little bundle of joy, that Vivid couldn't help but feel her heart melt when seeing the princess.

"Cadence may help you, but Flurry is little more than an infant. She cannot do much, and if you do attempt to make her do something, or consider making her feel bad, I will personally take you on a tour through all the layers of Hell itself. Including the layers few rarely talks about. I have their blessing to perform certain actions, if it will directly protect their daughter."

She may not be able to harm others herself, but that were the beauty of being given permission to take others on a forced tour, if they got too uppity with Flurry. Had to be a credible threat though, and she were only given a little leeway. She weren't allowed to leave anyone in Hell, and truly, she couldn't really take them on a tour, per se. More like, inflict them with a realistic vision of how it might be. Which could still be quite harrowing.

"Though you don't look stupid. I doubt you'd try anything against her, regardless of what I said."

She'd listen in as he talked on after that. Seemed like he had some grasp of the finer parts of rebirth and magic, though she still thought him to be somewhat uneducated. Which she couldn't blame him for. Precious few knew the cycle all that well. The natural life span were too short for that.

"I know my own soul much too well to know what will happen with it, especially as the corruption will only increase. Yet I don't fear it. In the end, demons are as needed for the grand order as the angels, even if both tends to mostly leave these minor worlds alone these days. I have been one to harvest and help souls pass on to the cycle since I were but a small foal, millennia before this, so the finality of my own life into the grand cycle, is nothing to fear. A new darkness will be born, and maybe, there remains a flicker of what I once were then, to lead to if not a good demon, then a more reasonable one. If not, then what will it matter to me? I will be gone by then, after all.

Our souls aren't comparable enough for you to see the finality, and with some hope, you never will. And with all due respect, I have been a soul guide for nearly three thousand years. I have a hard time thinking others know more of death than me, lest they are actual reapers. And their fate is the only one I would possibly fear threading, though their secrets are hidden amongst themselves, and Mortimer. It is impossible for me to say what leads one down their path, though I imagine it requires his attention on you."

On 2/2/2021 at 3:44 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

**Silverwing then stands from his makeshift camp and says,** "Would it be possible to seek her majisty, Lady Cadenza's aid? Maybe she will allow this old one a moment's time before the Crystal Heart. I know how to reclaim 'The Ever Living Spell Matrix' from it without harming it or it's purpose. I just need to see it to know. That or having an exchange with the sisters, for the book I previously mentioned. Spell Matrices 101: An introductory Guide to All things Spell Matrix. Would either be viable? I can hold off my next Mana surge a little longer for it."

"Hmm... I could present you to her advisors, and you could put in a request. Yet the decision is hers alone, and if she refuses, you will be asked to accept that.

If you want, I can take us there in a way which will still require travel, but not much time will pass. Away from prying eyes."

She doubted he'd say yes, though this were her way of wandering, and it'd be up to him if he wanted to take her up on this. If not, it could take a few days before they were there.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

On 2/2/2021 at 2:23 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“Hurry, the danger is nearby!" He yelled at them. Tepe stood up, confused.

“Danger? What kind of danger, sir?”

*sigh* Seemed like there were no more waiting time then. They had to get a move on.

Going into her bag, Sorrow would pull out the bits required to pay for their meals, then put them on the table, tip included. Only then would she faze Razor, and shake her head a little.

"Not in here. Outside."

"Danger? Where is this danger, that comes for us?"

Great, now Legion had been riled up too, and flickered to life. Eyes burning and looking up towards Razor, as the myriad of voices combined to speak. Too many ghost voices right now. THey had to get on the road.

Unless there were more complaints about it, Sorrow would get up, and walk towards the exit. If they wanted to speak about these kinds of things, they had to get outside, where they weren't surrounded by beings who were already listening in, since Windy were a Wonderbolt.

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

 

@abrony-mouse

On 2/2/2021 at 1:22 AM, abrony-mouse said:

Fuchsia smiled as she heard him call out to her, gauging where he was. She was glad that her sharp eye didn't spot any peaking or tell-tale magical aura. He really did seem a trustworthy sort.

Anyway, he wasn't about to gallop around the bushes looking for her giving her an easy target - but she hadn't expected him to. How to draw him near? She gets an idea. As quietly as she can, keeping an eye on him and stopping when he is close, she begins to bunch up a mud clod in her hoof ready to flick it to a nearby bush to create a distraction. 

As she lay there in the dirt, she also reflected on how much fun it was to meet another pony after the long days on the road. Sharing tails, comparing travels, cooking and now playing together :3 she had a good feeling about this stallion. Also, in the stillness of the jungle, punctuated by whoops of birds and the hum of insects, she relished their surroundings - its exoticness and the intrigue of the nearby temple. 

The rustling did indeed catch Smokey's interest, and he'd cautiously start going over towards it. It may just be a distraction of course, or it could be she had slipped momentarily. best to check, whilst keeping his ears on stilts.

Frankly, he were enjoying this little game. It had been a long time since he had met one who were any good at hiding properly, and even if he were to find her now, it were still a very impressive show she had put on. Well worth his time, and really helped to pick up his mood, after the last week of depressing heartache that had come over him, ever since Phoenix had taken off. His cousin had tried well to cheer him up, but nothing had just really done it. This were frankly the first time he felt like there were a proper light at the end of the dim, dreadful darkness he had been left in.

"There's no hiding from Smokey, my friend. Eventually, I am going to find you."

He'd check the bush if he got there without being ambushed, and get a genuine laugh from seeing that it were some dirt, that had seemingly been tossed at the bush. Such a simple, yet effective trick. One he had used himself other times too. A classic move for a reason, and one whom he of all ponies, had now seemingly fallen into. It were honestly kind of funny to be on the receiving end on this for once, though it also left him open for an ambush, if that were her want. He'd feel it soon if it were, though eh weren't afraid. If she wanted him to die, she would have killed him, rather than help him before. There'd be no point in first saving him, and then go on to quite literally, stab him in the back.

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

 

 @Sekel

On 2/3/2021 at 7:29 AM, Sekel said:

"We did, well, I did, and she has some odd things to say," Atzy replied and had a realisation. "Oh, she's actually gone. We can go to the city proper now!"

"It's not that great, pretty overrated," Karmic muttered under her breath.

"I don't think it wise to neglect what she said. Especially for you, Atzy, there were things you needed to know there, about queens and culture. Not much, but it might one day be important.

Yet for today, let us wander the streets, and gaze upon this town we have now been allowed in. It might be overrated, as you put it, Karmic, yet we would be wise in seeing if the words of their ambassador holds true, and we're truly free to walk through here. No time like the present to test such a thing, is there?"

It would seem like they truly weren't being jerked around, as they'd be free to wander peacefully down the street, without being truly bothered. They'd certainly get looks of course, yet what were to be expected? While Karmic were but a mare, Atzy were a strange kind of gemmed changeling, that they had never gazed upon before, and Enzo were a sphinx. Outside of history book,s, it were not something Equestria were used to dealing with, and considering his size, it weren't as if he were easy to simply overlook.

It were slightly annoying at times for him, how carefully he had to walk though, to avoid hitting someone, or something. Yet he managed, and his long legs meant that he should still technically be able to walk at a fair pace, seeing how far between his steps had to be.

He'd find that at times, the youngest down there, did not so much scamper out of his path, as the adults did. Rather they'd move to the side, then try poking at him, out of curiosity. Nothing that really got to him though. That were more that singular pony who refused to move, even as Enzo's paw stood still over her for  a fair while. Stubborn sort, but he would have ignored her in full, if she had not then expressed that this *filthy fleabag should be thankful he had not touched one as important as her*. He would *accidentally* step down then, and simply move on then, with her standing behind bewildered and shocked that he dared to get so close to her, that his paw had actually brushed against her face as he moved past her, and tipped her hat off. Purely by accident, of course.

He had good ears, so it weren't wise t think you could just say whatever and get away with it, lest you could drown it out in a crowd.

"Certain insects should stop buzzing so loudly. Have either of you any place you think we should see in particular?"

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

 

@Sekel

On 2/3/2021 at 7:29 AM, Sekel said:

"If you happen to be in my teleportation field, Manetid, I'm sorry for the sudden teleportation," she told the flying bug thing and cast the spell. Twilight, Last, the Manetid, and Cherish all vanished from the tower in a burst of purple light and arrived back in the library of her castle mere seconds later. Twilight groaned slightly from the exertion and shut her eyes at the pain.

"Please tell me we all made it back. I don't want to go back!" Twilight complained and waited for the others to answer without opening her eyes. "Cherish? Last? You're both here?"

Without more words, they'd leave the cursed forest, with the once magical tower behind. The latter to be dealt with by Madamme Macabre, whilst the forest were left to its own dark, uncertain future. It didn't seem to be spreading, so it would probably be okay to just leave it in the valley it were in, and simply not think further of it.

As for the trip, Cherish hadn't gotten back into her stick in time, so she'd lean against the wall and take some deep breaths. She didn't really need to breathe, but she were trying her best not to barf on the floor again. It were unhygienic, and could be dangerous too, emotionally. And if she hit carpet? The stains were going to be a nightmare to get out.

"...I'm here, your majesty. So is Cherish."

Last had a slacked jaw for a moment, which is why she delayed answering the princess. A lot had happened there in their trip, which had shaken her to her core, and she needed time to progress it. Yet there weren't time for it now. Her princess had asked her a question, and she would answer it, before moving to her side, to shield her from the only threat left in this library.

No, not the stacks that still needed to be added properly into the many, many shelves of the library, in proper order. She meant the manetid, who had indeed ended up coming with them, and now chittered whilst looking around, confused at this place.

"Krrxxh. What place is this? Is this where the Shrine Maidens went?"

"Only this one. Lower those arms, manetid, or you will regret it."

She were not fond of taking orders from this little morsel, but the manetid would unsheathe her bladed arms again, and let her weapon fall to the ground. Wherever this were, she had no backup, and she were painfully aware that her position were not one, where she could attempt to assert any sort of dominance.

"Zhhkxxt. Very well. I surrender in full. But your princess is your leader. She judges what happens to me now, not you."

It wasn't as if they had never *questioned* the Shrine Maidens before, and learned how their structure went. With most importantly, the princesses being on top. This did not look like the ones they had heard of, but she had spoken of her as if she were one. It meant Twilight were in charge of her fate then, not Last. Which gave her a chance to avoid punishment, and perhaps, even do something important for her queen, if she played her hands right, now that she thought of it. There might be a way for her to turn this failure, into success.

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

 

@Sekel

On 2/3/2021 at 7:29 AM, Sekel said:

"I've never seen or heard of whatever this is, okay!?" Aurora shrieked at Happy, obviously very shaken still from the spider incident and quickly ran after Lulu. She has never run into a draconequus before and was really wishing she had stayed home instead of travelling Equestria at the moment.

"Just think of a random bunch of animal parts. Now sew them together, and make them possessed by something with the power of a god, and the mind of a sugar-hyped filly."

"A disturbing, yet accurate description. Reality is but a plaything for them, and more often than not, if they wish to play you are best off getting out of there, before they include you into their games. Which we are going to do as well now. We're heading towards town."

"Bah. Silly mix thing should get paw-smashed."

"While I agree, it's not wise, Flaxxy. We're better off getting out of this, then think further over what kind of draconequus we're dealing with. They eacd tend to have a specialty of sorts."

A sign would start flowing above her, formed like an arrow turning downwards, with the words *Fun spoiler* written on it, in glittering, shiny letters.

...No wait, those were fireflies, wandering closely by eachother to make these words.

"This one seems to like messing with folks, but that's not really a specialty. Maybe it's insects?"

"Even better reason to get out of the forest then. And try not to voice any ideas for it to use. Just walk calmly, and follow me."

They might eventually get to town. They might be forced to wander in a circle for a long time. Who could tell for sure, now that they were in a draconequus playground? Best they could truly hope for, were that they'd be left alone. WHich they more or less were, for now.

Well, except for the pony-sized goo-spider that had started to follow them, and were currently walking behind Happy, making faces at him. But were that really so unusual around these parts?

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

 

@Califorum

On 2/2/2021 at 11:32 PM, Califorum said:

Then she turns her gaze to the new Stallion that had walked in. 

"I still have something you don't. So don't try to play anything with me, and I won't do anything towards you. Sounds fair to me." Magnolia put a hoof to her chest in an almost prideful stance. She had felt offended at the very idea of being attacked again, although that hopefully wouldn't be the case. 

"But that would take all the fun out of it."

He'd meet Magnolia with a challenging look in his mischievous eyes. From the looks of the scars going over him, it weren't as if he didn't know combat, and he seemed like he'd relish getting the chance to tussle with somepony right about now. Though it'd be short-lived, as Scarcity cleared her throat, and he rolled his eyes.

"Does nopony hold value in fun anymore?

Look, the council merely extends their offer. Take it if you want, or just ignore it. If you then start creating trouble out there, they may send someone less negotiable after you. Stay in line, and they won't bother you.

It's not a bad deal though. Working for them, gives you some leeway."

"Enough to keep you out of prison, apparently."

"The trick is to go after those, that nopony cares about. But come on now, no reason for us to fight, no? Not now anyway, since I'm leaving. have fun girls. Something tells me we'll meet again some other time."

With that, he'd turn around, and wander out of the room, with his cats in tow. Didn't matter if Magnolia started talking, he'd just keep walking.

"Distasteful individual aside, the council does have benefits, and might be able to help you find some modicum of purpose, that involves using your artifact in more productive manners. Be that as it may though, our talk are finished as well. Remember you letter Magnolia, and you do please remember your folder too, Zeehva. You did earn it, after all. The exit is in the corner, on the sigil. Stomp on it twice for an exit. Or wander to the back, and take the door. It id up to you.

And Zeehva, darling?"

She said this, just as the striped mare checked if the folder were still secured in her dress. Which it thankfully were.

"When you open the folder, I wish for you to think of the tasks I send you on, and ponder why I had you do those, when I could have given these to you much sooner. It may surprise you to find that there were purpose beyond my personal interests."

This made Zeehva question things, but she didn't wish to talk more. She wanted to get out of here, along with Magnolia. The mare whom she placed a hoof on as she stood up fully, and shook in a friendly manner.

"We should get going, okay? You pick a way out, and then we'll try and... I don't k-know actually, but we'll think of something, okay?"

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

 

@Kujamih @Windy Breeze @Califorum

On 2/2/2021 at 2:23 AM, Windy Breeze said:

“The highness is the reason why we had magnificent night skies and taking out the nightmares as we sleep, I would like to pay the debt by serving her with all my life"

She decided to ignore the last question, and covered it up with more explanation, “I once don't appreciate the night and I hated taking the night shift back when I was a town guard in my place of birth. Before she arrive, it was nothing but pitch black, scattered stars with no patterns, and something vandalized the moon with a pony face. But suddenly, all of it changed and I began to like the night”

"Vandalizing? Oooh, you talking 'bout Nightmare Moon's seal on the moon, right? Yeah, looked a good deal better after she got out of there, and they blasted her right back to the night princess. Never actually met her, but that's just one more reason to get this egg right. Gotta make a good, first impression. Though you can ease up, I ain't gonna hit on her. She's high society, and I'm a motor head. It just doesn't mix."

He were joking as he said that, which his increased grin and small laugh, should hopefully inform the mare of. Just a little humor to ease the tensions, right? Nothing bad with that. Besides, he meant it. he weren't gonna hit on her. It would be disrespectful towards Princess Celestia.

As for her ignoring his other question... Eh, might be security reasons. No biggie there, right? he didn't have to know after all. He were just curious. No issues from him, just letting it slide.

On 2/2/2021 at 1:16 AM, Kujamih said:

" Hahaha hey i know it was a joke, and i replied back to you is also a joke... I didn't expect you to take it seriously. And besides.. i prefer not to oil my parts... So the pain and agony will become my constant reminder of my past."

This part though, were less funny,. Like... Seriously, what the hay?

"Dude, that's not good. You're not supposed to be in agony, not liking it to be that way. Come on. Some proper lubricant, and then you could perhaps ease up the tensions. It ain't healthy to keep up with that sort all the time, y'know?

Seriously, you might need a proper checkup if you're in agony. Unless that was another joke, but it's right hard to tell with you, mate."

This made hi scratch his head, but y'know, until he got some confirmation, he really didn't know what were the truth here. Hopefully it wasn't this, since... Dang, jeez.

On 2/2/2021 at 1:16 AM, Kujamih said:

Light tried to not get too attached to the filly... But who could resist her innocence. Not even Cali could resist Blitz charm... Is what Light thought.

".. Hey Blitz? You ever want to be a hero like pinkie pie? A hero that not only spread peace, but happiness and laughter?"

"Don't be sad, Mistah Shiny! Being hurt is no funsies. We should help you feel better if you are, yes?

And I'd love to be a hero like Pinkie Pie! But there's too many things to invent to have the time, so I let her deal with the big baddies. I'm hoping I can someday invent something she can use to make all the bad things go down real easy though. I bet that'd make her happy. And when Pinkie is happy, then everypony is!"

Pinkie were not her idol so much because the mare were a hero. It were mostly because to Blitz, finding out how stuff worked were fun, and that just wasn't possible with Pinkie. She did things that made no sense, but wasn't a draconequus. She defied logic with every breath, and did so with a big smile on her face, and a lust for making others smile. If that wasn't somepony worth being her idol, then Blitz didn't know who were.

On 2/2/2021 at 11:32 PM, Califorum said:

"I am not entirely sure what to think of what you are saying but it's cool I suppose." she looked to Light who had thankfully dropped his interest in trying to get Cali to do something that she hadn't wanted to do. She wouldn't submit to him and that much was clear. "I see. Now what is it you ponies want to do? I was thinking of getting a look around this place.' she said, smiling at her in a sly coy way in the form of her unicorn form. 

"Sounds like a plan to me. Is everypony else game for a wander? I can close down the shop for a bit, and we can go sight-seeing. Probably good to get some sunlight in today while I have the chance, heh. Blitz, you game?"

"Outside is where the funsies are!"

"I'll take that as a yes. How about the rest of ya? You're game?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Catpone Cerberus

Leviathan had cast the frozen meat aside, once she had thawed it from her hand. It left a few seconds for Charir to gaze upon her mistake, but she didn't have much focus on that, much as whatever or not something were getting closer to them. A roar like that, surely meant that something out there, were royally miffed with them at least. Who else would cause that sort of reaction, right now? Seemed like the equines were too afraid to go in, and they had seen no trace of any others. Had to be them, though whoever had seen fit to get angry, were still far off, apparently.

She were about to say something more, when Ruby would answer in kind, to the roar that had been reverberating through their area.

Normally Leviathan didn't react on such things, but she felt the small scales down her back shiver a little, as the younger dragoness issued her own challenge. It had quite a tone to it, which would become more evident qhen that roar too, would be answered in kind.

Four times in fact, from four different directions, roughly in a fanned direction, the way they had been headed before.

There were something else too. A hissing sound, slithering through the chorus of nearly deafening roars that had been directed their way. A loud one, coming from somewhere even further in.

"Well, if they weren't going to be annoyed with us before, they sure are now. Probably gonna be expecting us too, with others going in for the kill to try and rise up the ranks.

Heh. Out of practice or not though, it sounds as if you made them take the challenge serious now, Ruby. And since you did it, you're in charge now. Where should we go, and what should we do?"

Her challenge to the large ones, so only fair that Ruby lead the hunt then. But she better think fast, cause they would soon have a meddle of various sizes of these creatures on their position.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2.2.2021 at 5:19 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Don't worry, It'll stick with me."

"Good to uhm... H-Hear that."

Her eyes darted around, but Scarecrow were right, in it mostly being him she focused on. Something with him in particular, seemed to draw her attention, though so far, it were impossible to say what it were, exactly.

As for Big Mac, he figured this were a good time to go grab a few things. Thet had guests now, so it were proper to sort something out for them to enjoy, while having a chat. It were their family's way, and one of the guests were in fact, a family member, from rather far off.

He'd give a small, meaty grin to them, before wandering to the house, to prep some things.

"W-Wait, you... You're coming back, r-right?"

"A'yup."

And after that, he'd wander off to deal with that, as the four of them were now on their own for a time. Time which started with the lid of the box the mare had brought, wriggling, and starting to open.

She'd put her hoof down on it though, and kept it closed, before anything were revealed.

"Something is inside? Are you sure it would not do well with getting some air?"

"That's not n-needed, thank you. Just a uhm... Thing that happens sometimes."

Now even Lyriel wasn't sure what were going on with this mare, but she kept her distance, and remained somewhat positive on the whole thing. Surely this weren't as bad as one might think, right?

Crow though, wanted to test things, so he spread hia wings out menacingly. And as expected, Bloody didn't notice at first. Took a few seconds before she did, and took a step back. Weren't much fear that were shown here, quite honestly.

"So uhm... W-What brings you here? Are you friends of the family?"

"I have helped here, but I know not if they consider me a friend. These two are though, and I wished to show them the splendor of the orchard.

What of you? And what are in that box?"

"Just some cider. Normally I send it, b-but I thought I'd try and visit. That's all. Really n-nothing else important in there."

[Midnight_Aurora 571]

@Blitz Boom

Cacora's PoV:

**Cacora thinks for but a moment, an old memory flicking to the forefront of her mind, before saying** "Sure. We can. I am curious as to who this friend of your is and hopefully they may know a thing or two about what I am. It's a story not worth much to share. A past I am afraid will make me more enemies than friends." **Cacora then guestures for her new pony like friend to lead the way.**

@Blitz Boom

Silverwing's PoV:

**Silverwing shakes his head and says,** "That won't be a problem. I intend no harm to the little Alicorn. For a matter of fact she is one of my seven favorite ponies within this world. Let's just say, where I am from, this world and it's beings are somewhat of a favorite to watch. I am just trying to peg events here to determine when I have appeared and to which Variant, or Prime, Equestria I have been brought into. The Multiverse can be a tricky situation without the known pieces of info. Plus, when one spiritually holds their Reaper's Scythe as well as hold knowledge of their own nature and purpose within the grand design known only as creation, one tends to think outside the normal boundaries of the normal. I guess that's why a number of my OCs or Original Characters were never really liked and always refered to as Mary or Gary or Angsty Sues without even giving them a chance. But that's beside the point of what you asked."

**Silverwing then composes himself and says,** "As long as one doesn't have to do randomly chaotic guestures to get from point A to point B. Sure, I am game for cutting the time of traveling to a location. Besides, time is a luxury I don't have right now. So the more time I have to find a suitable stabilizer for the power that swells within, the better off we all will be later, should I have need to harness that power. As of now I can only harness my original form and this one, via the gifted shape shifting ability those idiot cultists saw fit to give me, when they summoned me. This world has lots of unique magical ways to travel and most slip under the radars of even the sun or moon."

**He then says, when she mentions Mortimer,** "Hmm.....I guess that would be one known difference. I know of Lord Mortis, Tarot  Council Alicorn of life and death and his soul wardens, aka Reaper's. But I haven't heard of this Mortimer. And I know as much about death and rebirth as my chain of memories has revealed to me. And to be honest, events like this are but one of many that has happened over this existence's span of time."

**He then motions to let Vivid lead and asks,** "It wouldn't be much trouble to pass these scrolls to Little Wuna, would it? I would rather not keep them." **He holds out to Vivid the bag of forbidden magic scrolls, keeping only the ones he has read.** (The scrolls he keeps aren't anything more than basic knowledge scrolls of some Forbidden types of magic Lore. None of  them have actual magic spells described in them. One is also the Spell Matrix scroll previously mentioned and shown. But it doesn't have the needed information on the creation of said Spell Matrices.)

Edited February 5, 2021 by Midnight_Aurora

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom @Califorum @Windy Breeze

Light gave a smile to Molotov.

" Heh... Im just messing with you guys... And i love that dream of yours kid... But someday pinkie's gunna need to rest and somebody has to take her place... Now about that offer... Looking around the place can tell me about the state of this dimension aswell."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Blitz Boom

Razor shrunk a little when Legion spoke to him- or more like demanded ”M-Members of the Dawn Gang (the same gang) are checking the building next to this restaurant. We have to go before-”

“Oi, is that a Wonderbolt I'm seeing?” Razor was sharply interrupted by a casual masculine voice while Windy froze, thinking a crazy Wonderbolt fan found her. In truth, it was just Blunt, who along with Flinty and Shackles just got out of the building, smiling yet behind the friendly expressions are intentions to lead Sorrow and Windy to their boss or Needle.

Flinty tolled her eyes at Blunt before turning to them “Are you Windy and Sorrow?”

“Sorrow, Windy, do you know those ponies?” Tepe looked very uncomfortable and nervous as he stared at the trio.

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih @Califorum

Luna would narrow her eyes at Molotov “Oh, don't worry, I believe you wouldn't do such thing. In fact, I can't go near the night princess since our names are the same and might cause confusion in the process”

“That makes sense. You two had the same name” Blue added.

[Widdershins 9,959]

@Sekel

 "Gems are a sweet treat. More of a sometimes-food, really." Kaltrop said looking down in his usual grandizing pose, his sight diverted from the mare. "It's a childish thing really. Not like it's healthy to eat nothing but gems, but suppose dragons have never really been known for good self-..."

Having just caught on to a prior tidbit of the conversation, the drakeling awkwardly  fumbled his way towards Dawn and lowered his head towards her in an unintentional begging motion as he asked. "Th- there's a-another dragon in town?!! Living amongst ponykind without them at-... and getting along?

 I mean,  s-sure, yeah! We could do some stuff outside today, sure!" He looked at her in his flustered state unknowingly matching her amount of blushing distractedness.

 

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

@Catpone Cerberus

 Something did indeed stop him.

 For where the Golden Muffin McGuffin had been dropped where Cerberus had been standing, the ground clamped shut around it, forming a boulder around it tight and secure. It then rose up, trailing a bundle of smaller, but hoof-sized rock balls and two larger, oblong chunks. These latter parts levitated to its sides, magical bracers appearing as the smaller rubble assembled itself into a rotating assemble of a lower body and one notably larger rock rolling up the chest that now cradled the idol like a heart to float above it and have its eyes glow a faint, dirty gold magical aura like angry eyes and become its tiny, rocky head.

 It loomed over Cerberus, easily big enough for him to ride on its shoulder and far too hefty to kick without breaking a hoof. Lumbering it sure was... but with Earth's elemental sturdiness came its ponderously slow wish to move. It looked like it was thinking... hopefully more confused than angry.

 The violet little light traveling buddy bobbed down to rest at Cerberus's shoulder.

I said it was Magic. Magic means Unexplainable. This is all pretty basic stuff, yo.

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

“Now there’s an idea. Elder Ghilan may know you are trustworthy, and we can vouch for you, but other elders will probably put a whole village on lockdown just to make sure every pair of eyes is looking at you at any given moment.”

“That and they’ll probably try to talk your ear off. Remember that whole patience thing? They might try to get you to listen to a lengthy story to drive their point home, especially if they have to explain something important. No wonder storytelling is a longma pastime. It’s an essential skill for elders and anyone who thinks they can be an elder!” 

Both and Sen and Lin let out a hearty laugh. And this coming from Sen? The clown paint really starts to tie the whole thing together, what with him playing the part of an entertainer now. Between becoming the unfortunate victim of a lost bet to just lifting some spirits in an otherwise quiet moment.

It is true, however, that elders could spend a lot of time talking about one point by using stories. It’s good for putting things into context and perspective, but take too long and it starts to drone on and on without end. If it were entertaining, it could pass the time better, but elders usually do this in serious matters, and that’s where the boredom starts. Ghilan may have sat through meetings with his advisers and other elders, but according to him, dealing with those will never get any easier. And speaking of leaders…

“Huh, I had a feeling minotaurs were abrasive, but I suppose you take victories where you can. I wouldn’t know where to begin with someone annoying, elder or not. Well… besides opening two gates above and below them and letting them endlessly fall for a while.”

Lin smirked a little as she let loose a little bit of her devilish side. She didn’t exactly have this side to her personality back when anger consumed her in her waking moments. Regaining a little bit of her playful side has given her a chance to let herself a little loose. Perhaps it may let her be more experimental in seeing the extent of her powers.

“I suppose if were are just about done here, how about we have a look around. You mentioned wanting to see show, right, Rosa? I admit, I am a little curious about what goes on in one of those.”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,599]

@Blitz Boom
Ruby started by saying something to Charir, which based on his reaction was some kind of warning about the nearing situation, but he didn't move and instead started again scanning their surroundings with his senses. "There's no need to go anywhere, they'll come to us, we are the invaders after all" she then said, sounding as calm as ever while also using her senses to spot any incoming creatures "But if they don't soon appear, we should head towards the first roar." "Regardless, I'm not much of a leader, so all I'm going to say is, get ready for a massacre." "And leave the biggest ones for me." 

If her assumption was right, the fighting styles would be very much the same as before as long as nothing wasn't too different, Ruby going with brute strength and endurance, while Charir used speed and deception, trying to outrun and outsmart the unarguably stronger creatures, but if he was starting to have trouble, he would again start getting more electric, this time without any outside help, as the little electricity that had been left over started gaining energy like in Leviathan's tests with him. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------
´"Cider doesn't usually open lids." Scarecrow said, his voice revealing his distrust now that thanks to Crow there was confirmation that the mare had lied about the whole hawk thing, and unlike Lyriel, he didn't have the mindset to think the best about everyone, and while he acknowledged he was supposed to act normal, he couldn't act away his want to deal with threats that others couldn't. "And while I don't necessarily care what there really is, lies are always concerning." he looked her in the eyes in a way that even without expression it could be understood as acknowledgement that she was looking at him. 

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

Quote

"We are spread through the known world, and can adapt to most environments, long as there is life, so I find the notion that we do not exist to be laughable. Have they checked every ocean for us? Every cave, desert and snowy mountain? They may have been succesful in forcing my kind to abandon ponies as prey, and cities in general, but I wouldn't be so certain that there are none of us hidden somewhere, in some form. We are not an easy infestation to deal with."

She knew a hive that primarily dealt in dealing with watery creatures, so they spend most of their life in the ocean, and she herself, had been in a large, seemingly inhospitable desert. Others went for caves going deep, deep into the soil, sand so on. Most changelings that were known of, were the more forthcoming like Chrysalis and Thorax, but there were many that did not seek to be found, and most managed to make it. It depended on how well they could regulate their hive size, compared to available prey.

Though of course, their kind may well be gone in that other world. It just seemed a ludicrous notion to her that every single one were gone, even if it were clear that if there were some, they were loitering in the shadows, and had accepted that were their lot in life.

"As for the hospital ponies here I only scour their minds, and make them disinterested in asking too much. I don't stop them in doing any important tasks.

Furthermore, I would like to state a few things to you: First off being that your princess in the other lands, sounds like a weakling, if she forces this distasteful augmentation on her troops. A real leader should be above that, and trust in the strength they inspire. This? This is one wandering the same steps as the golem-makers, in the worst ways. Distasteful practice through and through.

The second is simple: These creatures came to in my domain, so if you wander around them, know that I will be there too. I am not finding you to be overly trustworthy currently. Which is something I don't need to scour your mind to find, are mutual. And to some extend, warranted."

Solar responded from the doorway "You never had time to spread, you were merely test animals that were removed when no longer useful." "I agree on the augmentations, though the sisters are no princesses and definitely not weak, but that's for later times to discuss.  And lastly, go ahead, I'm only following orders." he would then leave for good, as indicated by the half-metal hoofsteps leaving the hospital. 
 

19 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

O

"I take it the Nightmares, are your version of the Night Guard? Your world truly sounds as if depravity rules it in full. Queen Agnostica would be gleeful, were she faced with this. She have a certain... Fascination, in dismantling leadership, and playing various forces against one another. Troublesome little thing speaks, and disorder follows.

Be that as it may, what are your thoughts on what were said here? I have no reason to trust him, but for the time being, I have no reason to push for one outcome or another. Though if he does work with our Princess Celestia, I can imagine running away will cause some sort of search party to come for you."

"Nightmares.. are a special unit.. in the Night guard." Trox corrected "Look similar to him, mostly.. just in different colors....bastards.. are pain to deal with, took.. 9 lives, dragon full of explosives.. and my arm to get one down." "But he specifically, better let.. him do his job." Sheska nodded "Trox is right, we.. don't trust him, but.. it's better to just keep him happy, he is.. currently the only one who knows anything, and if.. there's even slight chance.. he's telling the truth, it's better to take that." "Because if.. he's lying, well, not to.. insult your capabilities, but.. you're merely a.. small obstacle.. between us and him.. if he's anything.. like the Nightmares."

 

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

@Widdershins
"What now?" Cerberus simply asked, ready to bounce in case this unarguably slower than him thing tried to hit him "I don't remember wishing for earth golem, so I don't know what to do with it, now I don't even want to use the bomb, I'm not a killer.......of things I can't eat." "Should I just leave it be? to let it wander away and live its life?" 

 

[GingerLightning 258]

@Blitz Boom

"H-Hi..." Ginger Lightning stuttered she was a little surprised but then again she liked surprises. She looked around at the old costumes the changelings were wearing. 

"you guys definitely need a costume designer..." she said before snacking on some of the food, not touching the jello-like Joy. When she decided to try it she just kinda stared at it with some confusion.

"Do I just eat it like normal jello?"she asked 

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Catpone Cerberus

The big ones wouldn't come at first, but there sure were a lot of others who would. A solid couple of dozens, all bursting through the forest with a thunderous stampede, teeth barred and ready to strike at these creatures. Primarily however, Ruby.  These may still be smaller than her, but if they wanted to prove themselves, they had to go for the one who had issued the challenge, and this one seemed the most likely. Just look at her size, compared to these two scrawny lizards she were hanging out with.

A few of the smaller ones would strike out after Charir though, just to try and get through him, and indirectly tell him to bugger off that way. An action which in hindsight, were likely going to hurt quite a few of them, before they'd consider him a real threat.

And as for Leviathan? She might be something too, but she wouldn't seem like she were causing trouble. Not until one of them got near her, and she'd slice into its side. She had already used a lot of magic, so she'd try and ease down on that now, but she'd make use of a few tricks. Wasn't like she only had magic and a little in the department of quick strikes, as she were a very nimble dragon. She were still a dragon after all, and that meant fire breath. Well places hits a the right heads would do wonders, though she'd probably eventually have to use her magic. if for nothing else, then to help her comrades.

Judging by the ground shaking a little out of tact with these creatures, it were likely that Ruby were correct though. Some of whom they had heard, would come to them.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

22 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"And while I don't necessarily care what there really is, lies are always concerning."

The mare looked increasingly nervous, and tucked at her dress a little.

"Y-You're mistaken. Everything is fine. R-Really."

"I don't enjoy thinking ill of others, nor being forceful, but this may be a danger to the residents, and I cannot allow that. Just let us see what is in the box."

Ploughman didn't seem like she were willing to do so, until suddenly, she were yoinked back, and fell on her stomach. Reason for that? A vine had sprouted, and pulled her back, which got her hoof off of the box, and resulting it in finally opening properly.

There were indeed some cider in there. Stored in three small barrel-like containers, so that part were true. However, one were also all seemingly strapped to a small construct of sorts. Twigs making for arms and legs, hay stuffed into rough burlap to give some form to it, and the head, a hay-stuffed, burlap pouch, strapped around what might be in the form of, or actually were, a semi-large rat's skull, and with two differently colored buttons for eyes. No light were in the emotionless buttons, but it were clear that it were looking at them, as the head slowly moved around.

Its small arms had been what had opened the lid. The one on the left to be be exact, as that one had the gnarled wood that made for proper hands, while the other arm ended in the sharp, rust-pocked blade of a sickle.

A ghastly grin seemed permanently affixed on its face, cut into the burlap, which then had the upper and lower parts of the mouth sown together with rough string. Yet regardless of that, it were still able to move the mouth, and made a creepy little smile up towards them, as the lipless mouth slightly departed - they were still sown together after all - and let out a raspy little voice, saying "Death..."

It frankly creeped Lyriel out, and she'd take a few steps back as it shambled out of the box, with Ploughman looking on in complete terror. Or she were incredibly worried. Likely the latter, judging on what she said next.

"Rusty, g-get back in the box!

He w-wasn't supposed to be here, okay? He s-snuck into the box, and you... D-Don't hurt him. He hasn't done a-anything bad."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

22 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Nightmares.. are a special unit.. in the Night guard." Trox corrected "Look similar to him, mostly.. just in different colors....bastards.. are pain to deal with, took.. 9 lives, dragon full of explosives.. and my arm to get one down." "But he specifically, better let.. him do his job." Sheska nodded "Trox is right, we.. don't trust him, but.. it's better to just keep him happy, he is.. currently the only one who knows anything, and if.. there's even slight chance.. he's telling the truth, it's better to take that." "Because if.. he's lying, well, not to.. insult your capabilities, but.. you're merely a.. small obstacle.. between us and him.. if he's anything.. like the Nightmares."

"Hmph. Distasteful fanatics the lot of them. May be they are resilient, but at what cost? They're nothing more than glorified golems now, fighting for rulers who I doubt would care if they lived or died. And the nerve to think that they say my kind were but tests for them... Insolent whelp. If they show up here, the Council of Queens will show them who the test subjects are."

Usually the council did not get invested in many things, beyond territory dispute. But large scale wars like this, from forces who would potentially not know what they were, due to their kind having been treated like short lived lab animal at their inception? They would be able to unite around fighting that force, and may the gods have mercy upon them then, since it were not wise to face many queens at once. Chrysalis had been a big problem for Equestria, and she were but one queen. And not the strongest there were out there. They had some players who carried a much heavier weight on that scale, than that up and comer ever had the chance to.

"I refuse to trust this one either, but I will not strike first, lest I see an act of aggression from him first. If things change though, I will deal with him in the way I do most things: Manipulation. This town alone have fighters that have by all accounts, defeated things that would make this guard pale. If he becomes a threat, they will be brought in to deal with it. If somewhere else, I still have my ways. I have rarely been a queen who needed to get my hooves dirty, as there tends to be other ways.

In any case, he is done for now. You two should focus on regaining your strength, and I will scour those who comes near, to find if he are trying to trap us here, or delay us for some reason. Once you are strong enough to walk, I would suggest we began to move around. It is safer in a crowd, than it is in a room where there is no others. Harder to assassinate one without being spotted out there.

Have you two made thoughts of what you will do after this? There are no chains waiting for you here, and if he speaks truthfully, the abomination should not hinder your plans either. The question just is, what they would be? It may be wise to think on this, while you regain your strength, yes?"

Her words almost sounded caring. Yet she were still rather neutral, and frankly a bit annoyed, after the meeting they just had. The patchwork pony had gotten on her nerves, and she really didn't look forward to having to meet him again at some point in the future, though she felt sure that at some point, she were going to. It seems too nice of a thought, to think he'd just slink off, and stay in the shadows.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

23 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Now there’s an idea. Elder Ghilan may know you are trustworthy, and we can vouch for you, but other elders will probably put a whole village on lockdown just to make sure every pair of eyes is looking at you at any given moment.”

“That and they’ll probably try to talk your ear off. Remember that whole patience thing? They might try to get you to listen to a lengthy story to drive their point home, especially if they have to explain something important. No wonder storytelling is a longma pastime. It’s an essential skill for elders and anyone who thinks they can be an elder!” 

"I've sat through my fair share of drivel, so that won't be an issue. Some of the lectures when I grew up, were run by some who really enjoy hearing their own voices, far too much. I will not be dissuaded from hearing them talk on and on, nor lose focus on my task, or on the points they will try to make. Sifting through the drivel and focus on the important bits, were part of my training. I won't say I were the top of my class in those courses, but I did fairly well, so I think it will be fine."

It depended on the sort of thing the longma elders said of course, as well as how they'd behave around it too, but odds were that it would be tolerable enough to deal with.

On 2/5/2021 at 2:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Huh, I had a feeling minotaurs were abrasive, but I suppose you take victories where you can. I wouldn’t know where to begin with someone annoying, elder or not. Well… besides opening two gates above and below them and letting them endlessly fall for a while.”

"If you did this Lin, they would continue to gain momentum as they fell, and at some point, any sort of solid ground you set beneath them, would result in them hitting with substantial force, to a point where it may liquify them. It may be a fun scare tactic, but it would have to be done only for a short while, or it becomes less fun, and more gruesome. Unless somehow, you can negate the gravity that causes this."

he had not seen this exact scenario, but he had sadly, seen what happened when someone fell from long heights, and seen the build up of speed. Thankfully those times had been lectures, and the subjects were dolls, but it still made a compelling case for what would happen, if it were instead something an actual, living creature experienced. Of course you had to fall for a long time to liquify, and not just break all your bones, for example, but an endless loop of falling down, with no end in sight? That would eventually be able to do it.

On 2/5/2021 at 2:09 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I suppose if were are just about done here, how about we have a look around. You mentioned wanting to see show, right, Rosa? I admit, I am a little curious about what goes on in one of those.”

"Sounds like a plan. Let uf proceed to the stage, and see when something is playing again the next time. They may even be preparing to set something up as we speak."

They'd have to backtrack some, to get to that area, but they would eventually reach it, and find that there were indeed being set up props for the next show. They wouldn't be able to get front row seats because they were somewhat late in it, but they should still be able to see fine, as the really tall ones like dragons, tended to be asked to go into the back, to allow for more to see the show.

It seemed to be a farm house of some sort set up, though not a very detailed one. Likely just a temporary prop then. And between the props ran a few changelings, including one already morphed into the white rabbit that had been used earlier, to confuse Sen and Lin as the hive got into town.

"Aah. Seems like they're performing one of the more classical shows then. A long one, yet it should still be well worth it, I would think."

"What is it called?"

"Haylice in Wunderland. Strange play I guess, but it have a lot of nuances with some occasionally dark themes to it. You won't learn anything about equine history fro it, as it is a fairytale, but it is a classical play, which is a delight, if performed right."

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

On 2/5/2021 at 3:51 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

"Sure. We can. I am curious as to who this friend of your is and hopefully they may know a thing or two about what I am. It's a story not worth much to share. A past I am afraid will make me more enemies than friends."

The unnamed mare would give a big, sharp-toothed grin as she heard what they were going to do now.

"Hunt head friend.

Head friend m-aaake. Make- She make me."

She'd rattle her legs, and flutter her wings as she said this. Strange appendages that she had just gotten, less than a day ago, from this draconequus. Why though, she weren't entirely sure. She were just asked to not eat ponies, and go hunt the weird frog things. Which she did, until she couldn't find more of them. Maybe if they found her now, she could tell her what she were supposed to do now? New friend could help her do that.

As they got to the edge of the forest, the mare would begin to smell the air and eventually, lead them forward, off the beaten path. Towards the old castle, far into the forest, wherein the draconequus had settled down in recent days.

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

 

@Midnight_Aurora

On 2/5/2021 at 3:51 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

**Silverwing then composes himself and says,** "As long as one doesn't have to do randomly chaotic guestures to get from point A to point B. Sure, I am game for cutting the time of traveling to a location. Besides, time is a luxury I don't have right now. So the more time I have to find a suitable stabilizer for the power that swells within, the better off we all will be later, should I have need to harness that power. As of now I can only harness my original form and this one, via the gifted shape shifting ability those idiot cultists saw fit to give me, when they summoned me. This world has lots of unique magical ways to travel and most slip under the radars of even the sun or moon."

**He then says, when she mentions Mortimer,** "Hmm.....I guess that would be one known difference. I know of Lord Mortis, Tarot  Council Alicorn of life and death and his soul wardens, aka Reaper's. But I haven't heard of this Mortimer. And I know as much about death and rebirth as my chain of memories has revealed to me. And to be honest, events like this are but one of many that has happened over this existence's span of time."

Vivid did not speak about the first things he talked about, as frankly, she considered it to be nonsense. Or things that involved new fangled things that she just didn't understand. Like, what was a Gary? And why were they trying to sue him, her, or it? And what did that even have to do about this? And original characters? Were he some sort of schizophrenia victim? She would not rule it out, though it might just be something he used to talk about previous lives. She'd assume so for now.

"You don't need to do anything else, than stand near me. I can pass freely through the layers of any world the demons have infested, as well as my own. Which thankfully, is not many. Most places, they are repelled, or only hold a fragile grasp.

As for time, it passes much slower there, than here. You may travel there for an hour, and it would be but a few minutes here. It makes for a fascinating way to examine the world, and give time to lick your wounds. Though beware, that I doubt you could pass through without me. Passing through layers of demonic magic without one near to shield you, can be rather... Corrupting.

And regarding Mortimer, he is the leader of the reapers. Essentially, you can consider him death himself. As much as the natural clockwork of death can have a personification at least, as even without him, death the cycle would still go on. Death ifs more the one ensuring that not too many souls gets stuck during the process. A creature of many forms, so to you, he may have shown as an alicorn. What his true form are? That is a mystery which I am not keen of examining."

On 2/5/2021 at 3:51 AM, Midnight_Aurora said:

**He then motions to let Vivid lead and asks,** "It wouldn't be much trouble to pass these scrolls to Little Wuna, would it? I would rather not keep them."

"Are you referring to Princess Luna? I have yet to meet her, but I can leave it there, for her to find. I have sometimes been sent to deliver documents to her, so it should not be an issue."

If he still offered them, she would take the bag, and then grab hold of him. One step back would she take then, which to the normal world, would make them dissipate into a puff or purple smoke. They however, passed through to another world. A world with a darkened sky, and a pressing, humid heat. Clearly an environment made more for those who did not take cold weather well.

They would be standing on a dark tendril, and everywhere they looked, they'd find these tendrils sat motionless across the world, as long as the eye could see. Around five meters below them, were dark forests of fauna-less trees, with shadows moving around within them. If they listened long enough, they'd be able to hear whispers from the shapes below, and see beings seemingly made of this shadow, yet having many, varied forms. All would whisper, and try to lure them to come down there. Either with promises of power, or begging for help. Though all they could do to try and entice you down to where they could not leave from, would be said. It were best to tune them out, frankly.

On the tendrils here and there, they'd also be able to see corrupted trees stand. These too were dead, but they seemed to sway in a wind that simply weren't present in this ghastly, depressing world.

"Welcome to this next layer. Behold a world where demons took control, and made it their own. A shadow of what it once were, I am told, and one which will one day, evolve into a corrupt existence of its own.

Stay on the tendrils, and do not, under any circumstances, go down there. If they get hold of you, you will share their fate, and never return again. Beyond that, simply enjoy the walk. We will pass through again, when we are somewhat near to the Crystal Kingdom."

This were essentially a dead world now, with something growing in its infancy. It'd be tens of thousands, if not millions of years before it came far enough along to matter, and even then, it were unlikely to impact the reality Equestria were in. So personally, ,Vivid did hers to not worry about it.

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

 

@Windy Breeze

On 2/5/2021 at 8:53 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Razor shrunk a little when Legion spoke to him- or more like demanded ”M-Members of the Dawn Gang (the same gang) are checking the building next to this restaurant. We have to go before-”

“Oi, is that a Wonderbolt I'm seeing?” Razor was sharply interrupted by a casual masculine voice while Windy froze, thinking a crazy Wonderbolt fan found her. In truth, it was just Blunt, who along with Flinty and Shackles just got out of the building, smiling yet behind the friendly expressions are intentions to lead Sorrow and Windy to their boss or Needle.

Legion didn't have much in the way of force to put behind threats, but they were sounding somewhat authoritative to other spirits, and Razor had seen personally how they were. It might well color his impression of them, even if they were simply wanting an answer, and asked out of curiosity, and somewhat worry.

As they got outside though, and were recognized, things took a sharp turn. At first Sorrow thought it was just somepony who might be fans of Wonderbolts, and knew who Windy were because of that. But the way Razor reacted, made her alarm bells go off. Why would he react this way, for a couple of regular fans that just wanted to chat briefly? And he had literally Just been talking about members of a gang - she could guess this were the one connected to what happened to himself and Autumn - being nearby. This had to be them, right?

On 2/5/2021 at 8:53 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Flinty tolled her eyes at Blunt before turning to them “Are you Windy and Sorrow?”

“Sorrow, Windy, do you know those ponies?” Tepe looked very uncomfortable and nervous as he stared at the trio.

"Sorry, but I don't know what that is. Sounds like whoever this *Sorrow* is, should be a lot more sad than I feel. And Skyline gets confused by whoever *Windy* is a lot. I mean, who wouldn't wish to be a Wonderbolt, right? But that's a little beyond us.

Why're you looking for them though? Maybe if we see them, we could tell them you were out having a look."

Usually she didn't lie, but these two were iffy as all hay, so she wasn't keen on trying to tell the truth here. It might well get them hurt.

"We know not who they are, but we know little of a gang in this town. If they are with them, they are evil, and wish to bring harm."

Legion would say what Sorrow could not, right now, so Tepe would not be totally in the dark.

 

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

 

@Califorum

On 2/4/2021 at 10:45 PM, Califorum said:

"Perhaps you do have a point after all, although be that as it may, we shall just see where the path leads. I do not intend on getting involved with anything else..." she shot some sort of strange look at her. "For now." she said with more of a firm way, she was sure she would find herself back here at some point. 

Magnolia helped Zeehva up, her expression bore one of confusion and almost bewilderment. She had no idea how to really react, but it felt good that she was...cared for at least it seemed. "G-goodbye, Scarcity?" Magnolia said to Scarcity, unsure how to address her.

Scarcity would take another sip of tea, before responding to Magnolia, with a pleased smile upon her face. Her half-closed eyes gazing upon the mare, carrying yet again, that glimmer that she knew things she wasn't supposed to, and enjoyed having that kind of thing in her possession.

"Goodbye for now darling. And do take care out there. You have such fascinating potential, and it would be a pity, were the council to consider you a high priority liability.

A word of advice though? If he comes for you, do not underestimate him. Symphonia is a dreadful little stallion, who finds a certain degree of pleasure in dealing with troublemakers. Despite the things he have prevented, he is no hero. More of a... Currently detained, minor villain, utilized in ways that leave him less dangerous.

But I'm sure this will not be an issue. Enjoy yourselves, until we meet again."

"Y-Yes, goodbye, Scarcity. You two uhm... T-Take care."

Leviathan were happy to leave, and would go for the exit that weren't magical, as she weren't sure what might happen there. For all she knew, they might end up in a small room, slowly filling with water.

So she'd elect to follow the path, and would eventually find a door. Opening it, would lead them into a flowering field full of blooming plant life, and with not a house in sight. There were a lot of trees in the distance though, so there seemed to be a forest there. One could likely follow to that, and then just keep walking from there, to get to a town. Though where exactly they were right now, were hard to say. Seemed an odd place to have a warehouse though.

As she'd exit, Zeehva would find that it weren't that simple. The entire warehouse were not there, as much as just the door opening were. It seemed they had stepped through a gate to somewhere else in the world. Probably still Equestria though. The plant life seemed native to that area, and they were at least not far to the north, as no mountains, nor snow were in sight. It weren't much, but for now, it were a start.

When they had both exited, the door would close again, and vanish from sight. If they kept touching the point where it had been, they'd find that they could still touch it, even if they couldn't open, nor see it. There didn't seem to be anything around it though, and considering the odd position, it were unlikely that somepony would just wander into this, if they didn't know it were there.

"Well... I don't k-know where we are, but it seems nice and calm here, and we're both still alive. I guess... We won the meeting?"

Zeehva let out a large sigh of relief, and stroke a strand of hair, back over her head.

"Good. I feared it would go badly, a few times. How are you doing though, Magnolia? Are you okay? There were a lot of attention on you, and not always good things said. Hopefully it wasn't too bad?"

Zeehva looked at the mare with genuine concern, as she were honestly worried that something might have triggered the mare a little, even if she had maintained composure in there. She'd give credit for that.

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

 

@Kujamih @Windy Breeze @Califorum

On 2/5/2021 at 8:53 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Luna would narrow her eyes at Molotov “Oh, don't worry, I believe you wouldn't do such thing. In fact, I can't go near the night princess since our names are the same and might cause confusion in the process”

“That makes sense. You two had the same name” Blue added.

"Nah, you just need a nickname, that's all. How about she's Princess Luna, and you can be Little Twinkle? Like a twinkling star in the sky, following the moon around."

Molotov were grinning pretty widely, as he presented the sort of wit that had gotten him slapped by mares from all over Equestria. If she'd go for it, and give him one right in the kisser, hed just shrug it off and get back on his hooves again. He knew well that sometimes, he deserved getting a smack, and at this point, he figured that if a mare did so, he had probably said something dumb. Quite frankly, they were already going at something of a record for him, as so far, he were pretty sure he hadn't said anything insulting, sleazy, or just generally over the line with this bunch. *sniff* One for the record books that were.

On 2/4/2021 at 10:45 PM, Califorum said:

"I would like to take a look around for sure. Your shop will always be there anyways so no worries about that. " Cali said with a rather sly grin on that face of hers. "Lead the way...bucko." she then added, and then followed where he would lead. 

"Yeah. I made sure the shop's blast proof, from the inside or outside. I ain't ruling out everything getting scorched in here, but it sure ain't gonna fall with any sort of ease.

Everypony get outside then, so I can close up shop for now, aight?"

Molotov would wave those still inside, to start going outside, so he could close the place up. Which included security systems, which is why he needed them outside first.

His spiders would go each their own direction on this, with Felecia skittering inside, and the much smaller Carmen crawling up his leg, and placing herself on his back.

Once everyone were outside, he'd start pushing in some things on the security screen, and then move out, so the door could close. Made some noises as the various locks clicked into place, and the security systems went online, but it would look safe enough. At least as long as they were near him. If not, the systems would activate.

On 2/5/2021 at 3:56 AM, Kujamih said:

Light gave a smile to Molotov.

" Heh... Im just messing with you guys... And i love that dream of yours kid... But someday pinkie's gunna need to rest and somebody has to take her place... Now about that offer... Looking around the place can tell me about the state of this dimension aswell."

Blitz were already outside, and kept chatting with Light, so she had full attention on Light for now, as the chatter went on between the others, and she waited for them to be able to get on the road.

"Pinkie's gonna be around for tons more years. And when she can't do stuff more, she's gonna name somepony a party pony after her, I bet. Maybe I can make pretty fireworks for them too then? I wanna keep making fun things that'll make others smile. Like wings! Big bro have wings, but I wanna make some myself, that's even better than that, and then everypony could fly. Hehe, and maybe I could have like, small rockets there, for ultimate fun time glitter whooshies!"

She'd bounce around Light, happy as could be.

Blitz were one who liked to make others happy, but she could never be the next Pinkie. She were more of an inventor, than a party planner, and would likely lose out on a lot of parties, because she had a new idea. Tough she may one day make for a fairly good inventor for other heroes though, if she got her hyperactivity under control. Wings, bombs, various gadgets- There were a need for those among those who were willing to go out and risk it all. Maybe that'd be her lot in life. If she hadn't accidentally scorched this half of Equestria by then.

Once everypony were ready, Molotov would glance around, and adjust the lenses in his glass, as he looked towards town.

"So, what'd folks fancy going and having a looksie on first? We're talking folks being hungry maybe? Looking for entertainment? The seedy side of town, for a good little beatdown? You give the word, and we'll sort a route."

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

 

@GingerLightning

17 hours ago, GingerLightning said:

"you guys definitely need a costume designer..." she said before snacking on some of the food, not touching the jello-like Joy. When she decided to try it she just kinda stared at it with some confusion.

"Most of these things were here when we moved in. Since we just usually change our looks to look like we have costumes on, we didn't really think much on changing up on these. Though it would be nice to have a few better looking things, and save the magic. Right?"

There were scattered nods and approving words from that. They liked what they did, but it were a fact that they were kind of winging things, and improving a lot. Some performances they simply couldn't do, because they didn't have the costumes for it, and they'd like to be able to go for it. 

17 hours ago, GingerLightning said:

"Do I just eat it like normal jello?"she asked

"Yep. Just fangs right down into them, and suck it up like a juice. I guess it's kinda weird at first, but you'll be fine. Long as you don't try chewing too much. It'd kinds like liquid toffee in consistency, so your muzzle is gonna feel weird if you go at it like that, I bet."

Bling would answer this, and take up s *balloon* of jelly, which she'd then proceed to sink her largest fangs into, before sucking the liquid out, as if she were some sort of vampire. Might look a little weird, but it were the most efficient way to do it. Though as another one somewhat nervously told her, that stood to the side, in a chef's hat- She could also just use a straw.

As for the dog, he were nervous at first, but a few of the drones were having fun offering him all sorts of snacks, and talking about how adorable he were, so Meiko would start acting lively and happy again soon. A lot of positive attention and snacks, did wonders on getting on his good side.

[Octavian 5,421]

On 2/4/2021 at 5:57 PM, Blitz Boom said:

The rustling did indeed catch Smokey's interest, and he'd cautiously start going over towards it. It may just be a distraction of course, or it could be she had slipped momentarily. best to check, whilst keeping his ears on stilts.

Frankly, he were enjoying this little game. It had been a long time since he had met one who were any good at hiding properly, and even if he were to find her now, it were still a very impressive show she had put on. Well worth his time, and really helped to pick up his mood, after the last week of depressing heartache that had come over him, ever since Phoenix had taken off. His cousin had tried well to cheer him up, but nothing had just really done it. This were frankly the first time he felt like there were a proper light at the end of the dim, dreadful darkness he had been left in.

"There's no hiding from Smokey, my friend. Eventually, I am going to find you."

He'd check the bush if he got there without being ambushed, and get a genuine laugh from seeing that it were some dirt, that had seemingly been tossed at the bush. Such a simple, yet effective trick. One he had used himself other times too. A classic move for a reason, and one whom he of all ponies, had now seemingly fallen into. It were honestly kind of funny to be on the receiving end on this for once, though it also left him open for an ambush, if that were her want. He'd feel it soon if it were, though eh weren't afraid. If she wanted him to die, she would have killed him, rather than help him before. There'd be no point in first saving him, and then go on to quite literally, stab him in the back.

Fuchsia wonders what Billowing is thinking about, a shadow passes across his face briefly and lifts... she bears that in mind without wanting to pursue it. She had her own shadows  stretching behind her as she travelled. Her family, her baby brother... travelling was an escape from these things - trotting into the sun. No need to dwell on the past. She turns her mind away from the painful memory and focuses on the moment.

Fuchsia doesn't look a gift pony in the mouth  Seeing her prey approach the bush she readies herself to spring, quietly edging her powerful hind legs into position and raising her whole body a little off the ground like a tiger about to pounce. Just as Billowing realises that there was no pony in the bush Fuchsia leaps! She clears the bush and in springy bound is behind him, pressing the hard edge of her hoof into the small of his back as if it were a dagger. "Gotcha!" she giggles, pleased with herself and rather exhilarated. She removes her hoof. "Been camouflaging myself since I was a filly... so don't feel bad about not seeing me." she continues, gilding the lilly a 'lil :3

 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom @Califorum @Windy Breeze

" Hehehe yeah maybe you can't be the next pinkie pie kiddo.... I'm pretty sure you'd surpass her."

Light gave Blitz a smile.

After hearing Cali's suggestion Light replied, " How bout the park then?"

 

 

Edited February 7, 2021 by Kujamih

[Rising Dusk 27,696]

@Blitz Boom

Rising was grateful for the release of pressure on his bones caused by Omen.  His idea of R&R didn't involve the trip to the Manehatten hospital for bone repair.  Nor did he think the best image before diplomacy even began would be a former citizen of Harrowmark crushing their savior.  Omen didn't appear to want to return to the dark lands and it was her right for a chance at a new life if she so chose.  Releasing a huff of held breath from the bear hug, he nodded to her.  "Follow the law and be productive.  Usually a good start," he admitted, knowing better than to argue those with the look in their eyes of wanting to repay a debt.  The detective would prefer their next meeting didn't have to involve his job.  "A pleasure Grave Omen.  Until we meet again," Rising bid his farewell.

Cork and Gold Mane took that as their cue to slip off the detective's couch and begin their own departure with the visitor to Harrowmark.  This was going to make for an interesting case file.  How foolish that Solar Guard was going to feel after his panicked reaction over this.  Or maybe the O.M.I. was just too use to the strange.  Hard to tell.  "Get some rest Detective," Cork mimicked the sentiment.  "Would be easier if we didn't barge in on him," Gold Mane mentioned.  Their intentions meant well and hopefully Omen was put more at ease.  She at least felt more relieved to know Rising hadn't been corrupted after all, not that she had any doubts deep down. 

"No bother at all.  I'll see you two at the office.  Do leave me the mirror though," Rising instructed them.  The pair nodded and waved their own farewells.  "Come dear, let's get you settled," Cork said cheerfully and beckoned the visitor from Harrowmark to follow the two officers out of the Rising's apartment.  Catching a taxi would make this trip much more manageable and give Omen a decent look at Manehatten.  

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

17 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"If you did this Lin, they would continue to gain momentum as they fell, and at some point, any sort of solid ground you set beneath them, would result in them hitting with substantial force, to a point where it may liquify them. It may be a fun scare tactic, but it would have to be done only for a short while, or it becomes less fun, and more gruesome. Unless somehow, you can negate the gravity that causes this."

“Huh… Didn’t think that could happen, but now that you mentioned it, I should take it easy. Or maybe I should open a second gate over a body of water? I know a few ponds in the forest that could work. Thanks for the tip.”

She wouldn’t hesitate messing with her powers, but Lin still had standards. No way would she try something that could put a life at risk, even if it is toward those who annoy her. And even if she were to stray from that path, she knows she could count on Sen to keep her grounded on the things that matter, like making sure she wouldn’t be filled with so much anger.

Once the siblings were done eating their pies, they followed Rosa to where this show would take place. The setup and the stage looked rather ordinary, or that was the impression they got from seeing the farm house. Going by Rosa’s description of the play, the fairy tale angle seemed rather unlikely, but they didn’t really know what else was there to see. Perhaps there was more to it, and the fairy tale approach was a mask to hide something much more than a simple tale. 

“I heard about that, and there was also story that takes place before the events of this play. There was a witch, or two witches, and it gets confusing. Interestingly, the play analyzes the nature of good and evil.”

“How’d you know about that?”

“Hang around the back alleys of Canterlot and you hear all sorts of things. I think the actors of that show were in Canterlot for a few weeks and nopony would stop talking about it! Still, it is an interesting topic for a play. Have you heard about that one, Rosa? I don’t remember the title.”