open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

The bodes had been made before they showed. The ritual itself, were to have them properly inhabited, and it seemed as if it were done correctly. They were moving, mostly talking, and taking in new experiences.

The matron however, would wander around them, observing closely. If it seemed their movements were too stiff, or not all of them could talk, she would need to correct things somewhat. A minor procedure, compared to bind the soul to it in the first place Which usually took less effort than this, but there were several, intertwined souls. She had to sort them and guide them correctly after all, as she would not accept sub par work. She would sooner have these destroyed and rebuild, than let them leave imperfect. Though a mending were simpler, but if no other option were there, she could, and would, remake any that did not go well.

She yet held her tongue though, as it were for the others that they knew, to make first contact. And after seeing no others had, Omen would be the first to try, as she would walk forward, out of the position they had been in until then, and rise a hoof up, waving it slowly from side to side.

"Hello, voices. You are somewhere new. I think it belongs to her."

She would point towards the stone matron. Though they might remember her still, from when she had met them earlier, and felt them out, to grasp what she were working with.

"We bring others. This is our friend Rosa, his friend C.G. Scarcity, and my brother Hammond."

Rosa and Scarcity would bow their necks when presented. C. G./Crow would raise a hoof, with an impish grin on her face, and Hammond would raise a paw and wave.

"Are you okay? Is everyone out of the ball now?"

She did not mention much in the way of names. To her, they were simply the voices in the orb before. Now they weren't in the orb, so they were voices. She would change talking about them like this, when they'd give her something else to call them, but it made sense in her mind, to just do this right now.

"A pleasure meeting you in person."

Scarcity would be true to her word, and hold her tongue for now. There were plenty of time for her payment later. Besides, this were hardly the place to do so regardless. She'd like somewhere with a bit more privacy.

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@Catpone Cerberus

So it sounded like Solar were not as different as she might have thought. He knew what it were, to be simply a number, and being changed from what you were. Yet it sounded as if he had it worse at least at some point, as he mentioned something of note, when speaking of why biological enhancements were abandoned in favor of mechanical altercations. The notion of free will, said in the context, made her think that he might not have always been in control of himself and his actions. Not fully, in any case. Perhaps his mechanical parts had a mechanism that allowed for an override of sorts?

*sigh* She found most of them annoying, but she could have done with one of the Boom members right about now. This were more their level of expertise, and she wondered what their perspective would be on it. Poor, she could imagine. They might be weird engineers, but they regarded life as important, and the freedom of will to invent and innovate. Showed with at least one of them, who had actively worked for years to make artificial intelligence, and it showing free will were key to his success, as he explained it.

Machinery that might take away the freedom of your own will and acts, would be seen as abominable to them, but they would definitely be curious, and have better insight on such things than her. Yet from a personal angle, she were both concerned as impressed. To think their technology had gotten so far as to do such things as this, but then had decided to use it in such a manner. A shame, as there could be done much good, with this degree of knowledge. Who knew? Perhaps at some point, there had been, until the powers that be, turned all focus to the art of crafting a better soldier.

Yet her speculations and curiosity soon took a backseat, as his speech neared its end, and he held a hoof forth. An invitation to shake, to cement a working relationship, which were more than she had hoped for. Sure she wished for it, but she had been more realistic, and thinking that perhaps she would be granted some level of access for a single project. She did not expect to be offered a full job, but she were elated that it were put forth.

So she would reach her hoof forth, and shake his hoof on this. Warm to the touch, but contained, even when she were happy, as were shown well on her face, and how the fire in her mane and tail lit up more.

"I shall endeavor to be an asset to you and your team as it grows, and rise to any occasion set before me, for as long as I am able. Which technically, could be centuries. There is pitifully little in the way of research, into the lifespan of higher ranking elementals, and-

*clears throat* My apologies. I can sometimes get a little carried away. But if you will have me, I gladly accept. It sounds as if there is plenty to do already, but perhaps afterwards, I can look into having some additional resources diverted to your office? Be it manpower, materials, or funding, there are several avenues of the Equestrian government that can be approached."

She wished to be useful, and sometimes, that meant not just doing paperwork, but researching things that could be done, such as request funding, or finding new working partners. A tedious process, but she liked the challenge of working through various channels, to find some gain for her projects. And this sounded like it would be her new project, for quite a while. How delightful.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Maybe it's stress?"

Leviathan would make sure to keep her focus on trying to be there for both of them. It felt like they both needed her to be the calm one, that they could find some level of comfort from. Which she'd try to live up to, but she were nowhere near as calm as she looked right now. Her concern for them, managed to overshadow things, but frankly, having been infected by dark magic in there, feeling so useless, as things went on... The worry she had over both of them, and how she were failing to keep them safe... She honestly felt like just rolling into a ball and cry, or to release her pent up frustrations, by setting the entire forest on fire, in an overwhelming display of thunder and fire.

But at least for the time being, she could function. And they needed her to. Charir was in shambles, and Ruby was apparently so sick to her stomach, that she were even shaking and vomiting. Something she had not expected to see from the larger dragoness like... Ever, actually. It wasn't something that she seemed capable of, and yet here she were, and she knew as little of what this were as any. Though Leviathan would have guesses of course. Though they could all be wrong. She wasn't a psychiatrist, nor would she recommend one. Ruby were more likely to eat someone prodding at her like that, than answer.

"I know you're tough Ruby, but everything just happened... We were put in a position of being completely helpless. Heck, we had to rely on that weird undead deer to save us in the end. This whole thing were just us getting tossed around, and trying to deal with the issues as they were tossed at us. It has to be worse for you too. You're always at least somewhat on top of things. But this time, you got hammered around.

Getting separated from Charir probably didn't help either. I know I were worried about him too. Heck, I'm still worried how this will all affect him, just as it did you. Kinda keeps me sane to try and focus on that, over myself honestly, heh...

A-Anyway, I think you're okay, but you're just... I dunno. Stressed? Having a bit of a low rung panic attack maybe? Maybe the adrenaline is finally catching up? Whatever it is, we're out, and we'll get through this too."

Maybe a bit cheesy, but she wasn't entirely sure what to say. Ruby swung around being open to more emotional moments and not, and right now, she just wasn't sure what the larger dragoness were open for, though Leviathan's instinct were to grab her, and hold her as close as possible.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"I mean,. technically, you could just shout *Dibs!* and claim it yourself. Nopony in town wants to live in the forest currently, and there's no housing permit or anything in play here. Far as I know the story, Blitz woke up in a crater a few minutes further to the west, and used some sort of debris and other stones, to build this workshop of hers, next to a rundown shed that were here from some previous home that were torn down years ago.

I dunno how she knew how to do that, but she claims that she got help from a stranger, with a snake's head and tail, and the body of a large cat. Sounds like a serpanther, though I dunno. You don't tend to hear them come as far around as Ponyville. And especially not alone. They're pack creatures.

Anyway, you can just move in, and then just wait until Blitz comes around one of these days again. I know she still have some friends in town she'd want to visit, and since she doesn't need this place anymore, she'd probably let you have it if you ask nicely. There's no deed or anything to work with out here, so it's mostly down to curtsy, and being polite. That said, it'd probably be good to register at the mayor's office, in case you wanna have a mailing address, or expect that someone might come looking for you for some reason at a later date. The forest is a fine enough place to live, but without a registered address, it's a pain to get letters to you.

It's pretty simple though Like I said, no deed or anything, so it's just a formality, so they can let the post office know, and have it on record in town."

The various stuff that he were looking over, didn't per se contain any explosives. The powder were made from various plants, insect parts grounded up, etc. Stuff that she would use for color, or because they in combination would provide the right effects. But the stuff that exploded she had mostly taken with her. That said, some of these should not be mixed without some thought to it, or something might end up burning.

That were the way she had to deal with things. Living by herself in the forest, and in a town like Ponyville, there weren't just explosives materials lying around. She had to make her own, and she were very ingenious when it came to this. As a fact, it were well known to not leave her bored and without observation, when she had been sent to the orphanage in Canterlot originally, after she was found here in the forest. Cause she had a few times used what she found in waste baskets, to make something she considered fun. How she managed to make so many things work, were anyone's ideas. Best anyone could tell, she were a prodigy in explosives, or something akin to that.

"Sounds like you like the place though. Or at least you see potential, so that works all the same.

So, you have a place to crash for now. That's good. What's your next order of business then?"

What could she says? She were a curious sort, and these two seemed like alright creatures. Why not try and be friendly and helpful? She got some help too when she moved to town, so it were just right that she showed the same kind of Ponyville hospitality that she had gotten. Besides, they were pretty cool.

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

 

@Evil Pink One

When finally he popped his head in, Starlight Glimmer seemed just about ready to toss the towel in for today. Or start an addiction to whiskey, but she were hopefully not considering that sort of alternative.

When she saw who it were, she'd give a tired smile, and wave him in, though she did clearly suspect that he would not show up alone, judging by her keeping a look on the door.

"Ah, I assumed you would bring Shark with you.

So, what can I do for you? Are there complications, or concerns, after the recent attack that I can help you sort through?"

There had been so many things since things eased up in town again. Some were generally worried for their kids. Some were newcomers, who didn't know what to expect from this, and how it affected classes. Others still had come with complaints about their new students, and had to be told firmly that unless they did something bad, they would not be expelled, just because they did not like them.

She wasn't gonna say, but it were in part to do with Shark, as some anxious ones, thought that she might start eating the students, like she had done with those frog mutants in town. And yet, she had been around for several days now, and the only sort of interaction she heard about Shark having, were play chasing somepony, until she were asked to stop, and then trying to hunt for a pet, until she were again, told not to do that. And by all accounts, she had listened and adapted to those, so that were not an issue.

And then there were those who complained about the kitsune, because they either believed the ridiculous stories about them kidnapping ponies, or just general xenophobia. She had expected that sort of thing, and even told their mother that, but they had both agreed that it would falter with time. And the tone were nicer today too. From what rumors she heard, they had helped out, during the most recent attack, so that were a feather in their hat.

*sigh* But she should focus here. Light had showed up, somehow managing to not have Shark with him, and seemingly had something to bring up, if he were willing to endure the line. Hopefully it were not news that something had happened to Shark. She were a strange sort, but as a product of magical evolution, she were also highly fascinating, and overall rather harmless to others too. A bit of fresh air if you would.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

" oh, I wouldn't like for shark to wait with me on the line; so she's busy playing with the twins." He then took a sit infront of the headmistress, infront of her desk.

" Well, i came to show you that I'm all good now. Got out of the hospital, and trying to catch up to my lost days."

" Um so... I was expecting that you might need of something from me. Although i do came with worry about shark."

" The attack was not meant for me but for her though. Why?"

" The only thing i know that would try and involve themselves with Shark would be the draconicous. It may be the mutated frogs... But i doubt that they can pull that kind of scheme... Scheme worthy of a draconicous."

" May i ask for guidance in this one headmistress?"

He quickly stood up from the chair and gave a deep bow in a sense that it's like a salute on its own.

@Blitz Boom

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

The newly formed golems looked around rather unnervingly, or about as unnervingly as possible with the limits their golem bodies gave them in terms of emotional capacity. With the Matron circling them, it felt like they were now the subject of a predator examining its prey, but they were still in safe hooves despite the observation. What was relatively worse was the reactions, or lack of reactions, from Sen and Lin, who only looked at them, then at the others without uttering a word. It was rather disheartening to sense the possibility that they may not remember them.

Fortunately, Omen stepped up and addressed them. A reassuring gesture amidst the awkward silence, and having that kind of contact was a relief. She was still the same Omen as last time, which was a good start, and hopefully, more could speak to offer another layer of reassurance. It seemed as good a time as any to return the kind gesture.

On 2024-05-27 at 6:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Hello, voices. You are somewhere new. I think it belongs to her."

She would point towards the stone matron. Though they might remember her still, from when she had met them earlier, and felt them out, to grasp what she were working with.

"We bring others. This is our friend Rosa, his friend C.G. Scarcity, and my brother Hammond."

Rosa and Scarcity would bow their necks when presented. C. G./Crow would raise a hoof, with an impish grin on her face, and Hammond would raise a paw and wave.

"Are you okay? Is everyone out of the ball now?"

She did not mention much in the way of names. To her, they were simply the voices in the orb before. Now they weren't in the orb, so they were voices. She would change talking about them like this, when they'd give her something else to call them, but it made sense in her mind, to just do this right now.

"A pleasure meeting you in person."

“Ah, Omen. It is good to hear from you again. It appears that our transference is a success, and we have new, separate, and independent bodies now. That means that the sphere that once housed us has become naught but a repository of information. After what felt like lifetimes in an inanimate sphere, it feels good to move once more!”

“And to Lady Scarcity and all who are present, it is a pleasure to meet you. I’m afraid that in our current forms, none would be able to see what we were physically like when our kind still existed. However, we are still grateful to be given our new bodies, a new chance at life.”

Now that some positivity has returned, it was a sign for the siblings to step forward and meet the golems for themselves. They could scarcely believe that this was truly happening. No more would they need to maintain their uncertainty, as it appeared safe to converse with the scholars. 

“Sorry about the silence earlier; we weren’t sure if we could speak or if doing so might ruin the ritual. It’s good to know that you remember us, and it is even better that you have bodies of your own. But, what should we call you now that you are separated? Do you recall your names or would you need new ones?”

The golems looked to Sen and Lin, then to themselves, in contemplative silence. It was true that their old forms and their history were more or less forgotten. Without being referred to by their birth names in eons, it was difficult to imagine the possibility that they may need them once more. They then retreated to their silence, perhaps in search of anything within their old memories that could recall aspects of themselves, before huddling together for a private discussion. It would only be about 10 minutes of odd silence and murmurs before they returned to reality to address the question posed to them.

“For the longest time, we never went by our names; they were about as good as forgotten when our kind became extinct. However, we have learned from what time we spent in the presence of modern pony society that names often correlate to professions or aspects of the individual. We will follow the same naming conventions, albeit with traits from our society. I was an archivist in my day, so I am Scriniarii.” 

“You may refer to me as Videntor, and as for our companions: Magus, Legatus, and Vates.” The three remaining golems nodded in agreement, each one a living recollection of their pasts as a mage, ambassador, and seer, respectively. Videntor, in his time, remembered his role as a seer, though the details of how he went about his divinations were no longer accessible. Of the newly formed golems, four were distinctly male, with Vates the only female of the group and Scriniarii being an unofficial "leader" among them. 

All five came together in the most dire of situations, sealing themselves away, though they still recalled the efforts of many others who weren’t as fortunate as them. To this day, they still could not see themselves as fortunate to be alive in a fashion or if nonexistence were preferable. It wouldn’t matter now; they had their bodies, and that meant they had their lives. 

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all. We may have discussed it before, but what’s next for you now that you are separated?”

“I believe we have an agreement, though the details are incomplete when I try to recall. If I am not mistaken, one of us will stay and render service to access information in our repository. Is this correct, Lady Scarcity?” 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

16 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Ah, Omen. It is good to hear from you again. It appears that our transference is a success, and we have new, separate, and independent bodies now. That means that the sphere that once housed us has become naught but a repository of information. After what felt like lifetimes in an inanimate sphere, it feels good to move once more!”

“And to Lady Scarcity and all who are present, it is a pleasure to meet you. I’m afraid that in our current forms, none would be able to see what we were physically like when our kind still existed. However, we are still grateful to be given our new bodies, a new chance at life.”

Now that some positivity has returned, it was a sign for the siblings to step forward and meet the golems for themselves. They could scarcely believe that this was truly happening. No more would they need to maintain their uncertainty, as it appeared safe to converse with the scholars. 

“Sorry about the silence earlier; we weren’t sure if we could speak or if doing so might ruin the ritual. It’s good to know that you remember us, and it is even better that you have bodies of your own. But, what should we call you now that you are separated? Do you recall your names or would you need new ones?”

"What do we do, while they talk?"

"Prepare for what might come of their talk. Though it seems things are calm now, and they are stable, so I wouldn't worry."

"Kinda funky looking, aren't they? What did they used to be?"

"I couldn't rightfully say. An ancient race, predating equines, from what I understand."

"Yeah, I can see that sorta making sense. I bet they're gonna have a rough time readjusting to how things have come along, huh?"

She'd smirk a little, thinking something of this that clearly amused her. Rosa could venture a guess what it might be, but he would stay his tongue for now, and focus on observing the newly-freed voices speak with one another. A time that Hammond would in turn use to scurry around, and observe things closer, and with touch. Going so far as to climb up on one of the regular workers of the yard, and look around from the top of her head. She showed restraint in not acting on it, though a small smile did creep up on the mare's face.

Hammond then angling down, so he could loo her in the eyes, upside down, made it too hard to halt herself, and she'd rise a hoof up to stroke his fur. He didn't seem to mind, and since the job of those gathered were done, this weren't an issue. They mostly stayed now to observe the aftermath, and see if there were more to learn, from these newly formed golems. Though some would move somewhat away from the main stage. Either to be closer to others, or to give more space for the new arrivals, and the matron, in case it were needed.

16 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“It’s a pleasure to meet you all. We may have discussed it before, but what’s next for you now that you are separated?”

“I believe we have an agreement, though the details are incomplete when I try to recall. If I am not mistaken, one of us will stay and render service to access information in our repository. Is this correct, Lady Scarcity?” 

Ah, and now were her turn, and she would speak with them in earnest.

"We do have a deal indeed, but I would much prefer we discuss such things in a more private setting. After that is, Stone Matron Lydia have finished."

And speaking of the matron, she would wander over, looking towards the last few who hadn't spoken out loud yet.

"No golem leaves my yard, 'til I approve of them. I tolerate not unfinished, or compromised work.

The last of you, who yet have spoken, speak up, that I may know you all can. And then I would know of any lack of sensation, that any of you might have.

The bodies you now posses, have the feel of touch. You will feel everything, as plainly as if you had been fur and flesh, and any stiffness you might feel, should subside within the hour, as you settle fully into your new bodies. Provided that nothing went awry, but I will hear from you first, before I see for myself, and if ought is amiss, I will correct it, before you are allowed to leave this place."

Her tone and glare were hard, and if any still hadn't cut their threads, at that point, she would swipe her right hand hard in the air towards the string, with the sheer pressure from the slash cutting the last few lines. They had served their purpose, and were but pointless tethers now. There were no reason for them to remain, and the orb yet remained safe. The elder minotaur yet held it firmly, yet carefully.

"Do forgive the matron her harsh demeanor, Scriniarii. She means no ill with her inquiries, yet she is a griffon of high standards. Especially when it comes to cases such as yours, where a soul inhabits a work of hers.

I gave you my word, that I would get you to the best. One reason she is so, is because of her high demand for quality, and satisfaction."

As for their orb, they would have it back if they asked. Provided they were accepted as being complete by the matron, of course. He were a meek, kind soul, but if they were not at their full now, they might end up accidentally breaking it, and so it were for their own good, much as any others.

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

 

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-05-27 at 11:53 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" oh, I wouldn't like for shark to wait with me on the line; so she's busy playing with the twins." He then took a sit infront of the headmistress, infront of her desk.

"The kitsune, I take it? Good. Perhaps if more see them playing around, it will calm some nerves."

On 2024-05-27 at 11:53 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" Well, i came to show you that I'm all good now. Got out of the hospital, and trying to catch up to my lost days."

" Um so... I was expecting that you might need of something from me. Although i do came with worry about shark."

" The attack was not meant for me but for her though. Why?"

" The only thing i know that would try and involve themselves with Shark would be the draconicous. It may be the mutated frogs... But i doubt that they can pull that kind of scheme... Scheme worthy of a draconicous."

" May i ask for guidance in this one headmistress?"

His odd behavior aside, she rose an eyebrow in surprise, as he mentioned some of the things that he did. Then lowered it in contemplation, as she were questioned on her opinion about this sort of thing. Sometimes she wondered if Twilight had given her this post, to make sure she were too busy to cause trouble again, but she knew better than that. That she got this role, showed a great deal of trust from the princess. The nagging thought just came every once in a while, when her cynical side popped up during busy and stressed times.

"For a start, please don't stand on the chairs.

Second, I were not aware you had been in the hospital, nor that something had been sent for you. It might be somewhere in the paperwork, but as you can see-"

She would gesture towards a stack of letters and files in the corner, taller than she were.

"- there is a lot I still haven't gotten to. Regardless, it is good to hear that you are of good health again.

You say that someone tried to get at Shark, but you were affected instead? And you suspect a draconequus? Then I take it that it were not a simple attack, that could have been done by say, a pony, were it? Hmm..."

She would ponder this for a moment more, before nodding slowly. She were not pleased with the words that were about to come out of her mouth, but... *sigh* He asked for advice, and she would give it.

"Quite frankly, if it is a draconequus, there's nothing you can do about it. They're demigods, acting on whims, with powers that rivals, or even surpasses that of alicorns. You can't make one of them stop, if they have seen it fit to meddle with Shark. But you can make them listen to one of their own, whom they recognize as being stronger.

Discord wouldn't do stuff like this. Not anymore. Fluttershy is very adamant about that. So I guess your suspect is the new one in the forest? Anomaly, I think her name were? I barely know anything, beyond her living in the old castle, and haunting the forest. Regardless, if you want her to stop targeting you and Shark, I would suggest you go talk to Discord. He's amendable to equine inquiries, and their kin tends to work somewhat with a hierarchy, of which he is at the top. Though you might need to play off his vanity a little.

Just chose your words with wisdom. I don't want to hear about a chaos war erupting in the forest.

Ah, and while I have you here, due to the commotion, I'm afraid that you, Shark, Hachi, and Zhing, won't be able to enroll in classes until tomorrow, or the day after. Between concerns and the general unease of those not used to threats coming in every once in a while, along with the added paperwork, it will take me some time to get to fill out the last required things for our late arrivals. Which are the four of you.

Might I ask that you please tell them? Worry not, you can still sit in and listen to things, but you will more be observers than students for just a little while more. Hopefully by tomorrow though. On the bright side, at least you have a little more time to decide your classes, yes? I hear our swimming instructor were thrilled that Shark showed interest in his class for instance."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

@EQ_Theta

"What do we do, while they talk?"

"Prepare for what might come of their talk. Though it seems things are calm now, and they are stable, so I wouldn't worry."

"Kinda funky looking, aren't they? What did they used to be?"

"I couldn't rightfully say. An ancient race, predating equines, from what I understand."

"Yeah, I can see that sorta making sense. I bet they're gonna have a rough time readjusting to how things have come along, huh?"

She'd smirk a little, thinking something of this that clearly amused her. Rosa could venture a guess what it might be, but he would stay his tongue for now, and focus on observing the newly-freed voices speak with one another. A time that Hammond would in turn use to scurry around, and observe things closer, and with touch. Going so far as to climb up on one of the regular workers of the yard, and look around from the top of her head. She showed restraint in not acting on it, though a small smile did creep up on the mare's face.

Hammond then angling down, so he could loo her in the eyes, upside down, made it too hard to halt herself, and she'd rise a hoof up to stroke his fur. He didn't seem to mind, and since the job of those gathered were done, this weren't an issue. They mostly stayed now to observe the aftermath, and see if there were more to learn, from these newly formed golems. Though some would move somewhat away from the main stage. Either to be closer to others, or to give more space for the new arrivals, and the matron, in case it were needed.

Ah, and now were her turn, and she would speak with them in earnest.

"We do have a deal indeed, but I would much prefer we discuss such things in a more private setting. After that is, Stone Matron Lydia have finished."

And speaking of the matron, she would wander over, looking towards the last few who hadn't spoken out loud yet.

"No golem leaves my yard, 'til I approve of them. I tolerate not unfinished, or compromised work.

The last of you, who yet have spoken, speak up, that I may know you all can. And then I would know of any lack of sensation, that any of you might have.

The bodies you now posses, have the feel of touch. You will feel everything, as plainly as if you had been fur and flesh, and any stiffness you might feel, should subside within the hour, as you settle fully into your new bodies. Provided that nothing went awry, but I will hear from you first, before I see for myself, and if ought is amiss, I will correct it, before you are allowed to leave this place."

Her tone and glare were hard, and if any still hadn't cut their threads, at that point, she would swipe her right hand hard in the air towards the string, with the sheer pressure from the slash cutting the last few lines. They had served their purpose, and were but pointless tethers now. There were no reason for them to remain, and the orb yet remained safe. The elder minotaur yet held it firmly, yet carefully.

"Do forgive the matron her harsh demeanor, Scriniarii. She means no ill with her inquiries, yet she is a griffon of high standards. Especially when it comes to cases such as yours, where a soul inhabits a work of hers.

I gave you my word, that I would get you to the best. One reason she is so, is because of her high demand for quality, and satisfaction."

As for their orb, they would have it back if they asked. Provided they were accepted as being complete by the matron, of course. He were a meek, kind soul, but if they were not at their full now, they might end up accidentally breaking it, and so it were for their own good, much as any others.

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

 

@Evil Pink One

"The kitsune, I take it? Good. Perhaps if more see them playing around, it will calm some nerves."

His odd behavior aside, she rose an eyebrow in surprise, as he mentioned some of the things that he did. Then lowered it in contemplation, as she were questioned on her opinion about this sort of thing. Sometimes she wondered if Twilight had given her this post, to make sure she were too busy to cause trouble again, but she knew better than that. That she got this role, showed a great deal of trust from the princess. The nagging thought just came every once in a while, when her cynical side popped up during busy and stressed times.

"For a start, please don't stand on the chairs.

Second, I were not aware you had been in the hospital, nor that something had been sent for you. It might be somewhere in the paperwork, but as you can see-"

She would gesture towards a stack of letters and files in the corner, taller than she were.

"- there is a lot I still haven't gotten to. Regardless, it is good to hear that you are of good health again.

You say that someone tried to get at Shark, but you were affected instead? And you suspect a draconequus? Then I take it that it were not a simple attack, that could have been done by say, a pony, were it? Hmm..."

She would ponder this for a moment more, before nodding slowly. She were not pleased with the words that were about to come out of her mouth, but... *sigh* He asked for advice, and she would give it.

"Quite frankly, if it is a draconequus, there's nothing you can do about it. They're demigods, acting on whims, with powers that rivals, or even surpasses that of alicorns. You can't make one of them stop, if they have seen it fit to meddle with Shark. But you can make them listen to one of their own, whom they recognize as being stronger.

Discord wouldn't do stuff like this. Not anymore. Fluttershy is very adamant about that. So I guess your suspect is the new one in the forest? Anomaly, I think her name were? I barely know anything, beyond her living in the old castle, and haunting the forest. Regardless, if you want her to stop targeting you and Shark, I would suggest you go talk to Discord. He's amendable to equine inquiries, and their kin tends to work somewhat with a hierarchy, of which he is at the top. Though you might need to play off his vanity a little.

Just chose your words with wisdom. I don't want to hear about a chaos war erupting in the forest.

Ah, and while I have you here, due to the commotion, I'm afraid that you, Shark, Hachi, and Zhing, won't be able to enroll in classes until tomorrow, or the day after. Between concerns and the general unease of those not used to threats coming in every once in a while, along with the added paperwork, it will take me some time to get to fill out the last required things for our late arrivals. Which are the four of you.

Might I ask that you please tell them? Worry not, you can still sit in and listen to things, but you will more be observers than students for just a little while more. Hopefully by tomorrow though. On the bright side, at least you have a little more time to decide your classes, yes? I hear our swimming instructor were thrilled that Shark showed interest in his class for instance."

,Light would bow down to Starlight glimmer and reply.

"Ever so humble and wise, i will take your advice into heart head mistress; i shall not waste this free time that you have given."

" If nothing else my lady, may i ask where i can meet sir Discord? Am i to assume i must meet madam Fluttershy?"

 

[Lawyer Slip 2,528]

@Blitz Boom

*Fortunately for everyone else, Dash was only unconscious for about a minute. She had definitely pushed herself a little far this time. She looked up at Ziggy towering over her, and smiled, grateful for the assistance.*

*Meanwhile. Slipstream was celebrating his head off. He couldn't believe himself, he had not only finally proved his true speed, but he had broken his new speed record as well. And he somehow still had tons of energy left over from racing.*

*And Rich? Rich was more proud then he'd been in a long time. His best friend had finally proved himself to himself in the most amazingly cool way possible. He gave Slipstream a big hug.*

"Really happy for you man. Really happy."

*Slipstream of course returned the hug.* 

"Thanks man. I feel like a new pony! I'm still afraid of public interaction, probably because I think I have social anxiety, but I feel more confident in my ability to go outside now!"

"Hey kid. C'mere, I wanna tell you something."

*Slipstream obeyed, and walked over to Rainbow Dash, as Ziggy worked on making her better, Rainbow Dash smiled at Slipstream.*

"You know, normally, I'd be absolutely furious of somepony actually being faster than me. But after seeing what you did, heh, I can safely say, I will surrender my title with grace, honor, and dignity. You, Slipstream, are now, the fastest pony alive, capable of breaking the barriers of sound and light. Cherish your abilities, and never stop racing."

"Thanks Ms. Dash, that means a lot coming from you."

"Heh, however, once I get my strength back, I wanna rematch, and I'm now considering you a friendly rival."

"You know what? I wouldn't have it any other way."

*And then Slipstream smiled bigger than ever before.*

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-05-30 at 5:12 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"No golem leaves my yard, 'til I approve of them. I tolerate not unfinished, or compromised work.

The last of you, who yet have spoken, speak up, that I may know you all can. And then I would know of any lack of sensation, that any of you might have.

The bodies you now posses, have the feel of touch. You will feel everything, as plainly as if you had been fur and flesh, and any stiffness you might feel, should subside within the hour, as you settle fully into your new bodies. Provided that nothing went awry, but I will hear from you first, before I see for myself, and if ought is amiss, I will correct it, before you are allowed to leave this place."

Seemed like the matron wasn’t going to let the golems go until she was certain of the craftsmanship’s quality, and the temperament to go along with that wasn’t very… nice, to say the least. Scriniarii, Videntor, and Legatus had already spoken, suggesting that the work on their golem bodies was more than just satisfactory. That would mean Magus and Vates would also follow suit and be at the same level of quality. They moved their legs and neck; the two initially made simple gestures, followed by a range of basic articulations to prove that their constructed forms were up to standard. 

After that, Vates stepped forward toward Rosa, C. G., and Omen, raising one hoof and stretching it outward to the three of them. It all seemed strange for now, especially with her stony gaze fixated on them, but she was harmless.

“My previous profession was a seer, and for a time, I engaged in hoof readings as a form of simple divination. Now, I doubt I could do such a thing, but may I ask if you could place one foot or claw on mine? I only wish to confirm the presence of sensations for myself.” 

Vates wouldn’t have high hopes that she retained any of her skills for divination, but should Omen, Rosa, or C. G. humor her request, she’d simply give light touches and mild presses, almost as if she was providing a massage. Movements were rather jerky and somewhat uncoordinated, but it wouldn’t be too out of the ordinary for someone still acclimating to their new body. 

As for Magus, he paced back and forth idly while hoping to channel some of his previous talents. Despite being a magic user by his name and profession, he didn’t channel it through external body parts and would immediately seek assistance with the matter. Sen was quick to notice and approached him, hoping to assuage the golem’s worries.

“What’s wrong? Do you need something?”

“I seek a catalyst or something at the very least some materials that will let me fashion one. As a practitioner of magic, it is a necessary tool that I cannot be without.” 

“A catalyst? I am more familiar with magic being channeled by creatures that already have that ability. You do not possess magic of your own? And what do you need for a catalyst?”

“It is a complicated matter. I am capable of using it but only through an object that can conduct magic from myself to the environment. That is what a catalyst does. If such a thing is not available, it can be constructed using wood or steel and a crystal as a focus. Any will do.”

The longma nodded and approached the Stone Matron with Magus for help. It may be too much to ask for one who already got a new golem body, but it seemed important to the new golem to assess his capabilities. For now, any material that matches his requirements will do; even simple and shoddy-looking materials will suffice. A well-constructed catalyst with the right components can do wonders, but Magus will settle with a simpler tool. After all, he only needed to confirm his magic abilities remained intact. 

On 2024-05-30 at 5:12 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Do forgive the matron her harsh demeanor, Scriniarii. She means no ill with her inquiries, yet she is a griffon of high standards. Especially when it comes to cases such as yours, where a soul inhabits a work of hers.

I gave you my word, that I would get you to the best. One reason she is so, is because of her high demand for quality, and satisfaction."

As for their orb, they would have it back if they asked. Provided they were accepted as being complete by the matron, of course. He were a meek, kind soul, but if they were not at their full now, they might end up accidentally breaking it, and so it were for their own good, much as any others.

With everyone now separated into their own groups with a golem, Scriniarii was rather hopeful with the sight that beheld him. It wouldn’t look like much, but perhaps these ancient creatures could hopefully integrate into a new society and make good on their new lease on life. He turned to face Scarcity and bowed, grateful that she was able to help. A deal was a deal, and soon it would be his turn to repay that gesture.

“I can understand the harshness; this is an excellent body, the work of a true artisan. It will take some time to get used to this new existence, but it is a good way to begin again. Oh, and before I forget, I will also need to create another examination.”

The archivist golem walked up to the Stone Matron as well, following after Sen. He would need to make sure the object of his agreement with Scarcity was still in a good state. 

“Stone Matron? If I may ask, would you still require more observations? I would like to examine the orb we were extracted from to determine if there were any side effects from our transference.” 

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
"Welcome aboard, we'll know what more beyond paperwork there is to do when we get you properly acquainted with everything." Solar stated in friendly manner, he was also smiling in the same friendly manner, but since his lower jaw was made of metal, it was visible mainly in the eyes. "And I say this now, do not be afraid to criticize me, suggest things, or otherwise discuss my actions or decisions; I've learned that mutual criticism bring the best group effort." "I also used to work in reconnaissance and other intel related duties, so this whole, being a commander thing, is still unfamiliar to me." 

"Do you wish to join me as I return to Canterlot, or would you rather meet me there later?"

----------
"In normal circumstances I would laugh about how you'd even suggest a such a thing." Ruby stated, still looking at her leg as it shook, it was getting better, but it was still there  "But I am self-aware enough to know how foolish that would be." "My first thought is to blame the spell, maybe there's a side effect that I didn't know about, or maybe the dark magic interacted with it in some way that caused this." "But, that wouldn't explain why just the idea of transforming at all makes me suddenly feel.....sick." "So it does signal a psychological effect rather than physical side effect." "I am exhausted, so that may be part of it." "But I admit I'm slightly concerned, as even during the worst times of my life, I've never had this kind of reaction; it is usually easy to tell what's going on." "I need to keep an eye on this, see if it's just a one-off, because if not....it may be the time for Ruby Shine to die."

Charir had calmed down enough at this point to follow the situation, however, he still kept close to Leviathan, looking over his shoulder now and then to make sure nothing came after them from the temple, and he was also visibly wary of Ruby; because while he did trust Ruby at this point, he could tell she wasn't on a good mood, and while there was some context clues, he couldn't be sure what kind of bad mood this was. Though, with his wariness, there was also bit of concern, as this was the first time he had seen anything like this either.

"You should worry about Charir and yourself more, I'm- " Ruby cut herself short "...I will be fine." she was going to say she was fine, but that was such a lie that she felt the need to rephrase it. 

---------

The siblings didn't know what serpanthers were, so they didn't have much of a reaction besides curiosity, as the wondered what their fate in their world was if they existed there. 
"I guess the first thing would be to claim the place officially, and to tell Chega that she doesn't need to pay for our room anymore." "After that we need to find a way to make money, we can get some materials from the forest, but we have no tools, and many materials are unlikely to be easily obtainable here." "We also need clothing, to cover from the sun." 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

21 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“My previous profession was a seer, and for a time, I engaged in hoof readings as a form of simple divination. Now, I doubt I could do such a thing, but may I ask if you could place one foot or claw on mine? I only wish to confirm the presence of sensations for myself.” 

Omen would be the first to step forth, and provide a hoof for him to examine, if he so wished. She tended to follow on such requests rather easily, seeing it as an experience, and generally not thinking there to be a bad meaning behind simple things like it. It tended to get her roped into traps a fair few times, but she wasn't dead yet, so it were still technically all experiences, that she could in theory learn from. Even though her gullibility didn't seem to wane a lot.

The golems would still have their powers, provided that it had been sealed with them into the orb, but they were still fresh in their bodies. It were possible that some things took a little time, before they would function properly.

Rosa would offer his hoof after, though C. G. would dismiss it, saying that since she wore false hooves, it probably wasn't gonna work on her regardless. She wasn't gonna prove her point though, as she didn't think it was relevant to give them more information than that. Plus carrying the prop back with her were more annoying then continuing to wear it. She'd get it off and back into the collection soon enough.

22 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“What’s wrong? Do you need something?”

“I seek a catalyst or something at the very least some materials that will let me fashion one. As a practitioner of magic, it is a necessary tool that I cannot be without.” 

“A catalyst? I am more familiar with magic being channeled by creatures that already have that ability. You do not possess magic of your own? And what do you need for a catalyst?”

“It is a complicated matter. I am capable of using it but only through an object that can conduct magic from myself to the environment. That is what a catalyst does. If such a thing is not available, it can be constructed using wood or steel and a crystal as a focus. Any will do.”

"There are no such things here, for you to make use of for that. Those foci that we have, are sacred, and not to be touched. But we do have some crystals and steel make use of."

"If I may, I can offer one with more expedience, that should suffice better as a testing conduit.

Hammond dear? Would you be so kind as to go to my office at the store, and get me the ornament you find so fascinating to poke at?"

Hammond would nod, and jump into a small gate, that closed behind him, as he went to fetch something for his master.

"Please be patient for but a hooffull of seconds, and I should have something that would suit your request. It is not an optimal one, I must admit, but it should suffice, and it are one that I know Hammond can find most expediently."

She had just about finished her sentence, when the gate would open again, and prove it, as Hammond came through once more. though his angle were from the air, where a wooden box would fall out from it, and land with a notable thunk on the ground. It being around the size of him, minus the tail, and popping open as it landed. The latch were not grand, but the bottom stayed on the ground, so that were a plus.

It would reveal some sort of cloth sprinkled with moons and stars, over another box it would seem, yet on top of this were four wooden sticks, along with a head of a staff, that all seemed to be meant to screw together at points, yet interchangeably, which meant that you could decide on the size of the stick part of this. There would also be a crystal ball, a crystal flowerhead, and a crystal bird. All seemed to be meant to put on the top of the staff.

"I tend to invest in various upstarts, if they can convince me the venture is sound. This is a prototype I were given, from one wanting to open a costume shop, focused on providing all inclusive kits. I had one more interested in these things test it for me, but I do admire the ingenuity, and the quality, and my friend were impressed enough for me to feel confident in investing. I were asked to keep this, as a personal thank you, and kept it in my office, until I find where to put it.

Doesn't take a lot of space, and adjustable for foals to adults, in a practical box for storage between uses, and sent country wide. There's potential in that kind of business.

Ah, but I mean not to talk your ear off. I think that perhaps the staff, or parts of it, should be usable for your request, yes? I assure you, I can procure something more potent another time, but this should suffice for a test run as it were, yes?"

"Quality looks good for a prop shop. Mind giving me a name of the store when things goes into business, boss?"

"I will ensure you are invited to the grand opening."

"Hah, score."

C. G. used a lot of props in her line of work, and sometimes, she had to make it all from scratch. This prototype at a glance, showed some potential. Of course, it had to be modified for her use, but modified were usually faster than making it all herself. Might be the one who made this, were worth keeping in mind for her.

On 2024-06-01 at 12:46 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I can understand the harshness; this is an excellent body, the work of a true artisan. It will take some time to get used to this new existence, but it is a good way to begin again. Oh, and before I forget, I will also need to create another examination.”

The archivist golem walked up to the Stone Matron as well, following after Sen. He would need to make sure the object of his agreement with Scarcity was still in a good state. 

“Stone Matron? If I may ask, would you still require more observations? I would like to examine the orb we were extracted from to determine if there were any side effects from our transference.”

Rather than answer, the matron would turn towards him, her arm and talons stretched out. He should feel her, as she did something similar to what she had done the first time she had felt them out. She would do this towards each of them, for but a few seconds, then turn to him once more, her hand now firmly on the ground.

"No, everything seems in order now. All can speak and move, no stiffness out of the ordinary, and I can feel your souls and energies, settling into the vessels as they should. My job is complete, and I deem you safe and complete. Marble? You may relinquish the orb to their safekeep once more."

Marble would do so, moving in closer to the archivist, and reaching the orb down to him, palms up.

"She needed certainty, that you were stable. It would be tragic, were you to accidentally destroy this.

Be blessed, wayward souls. Enjoy life once more."

He'd smile as the orb were returned, to one of its rightful owners. It seemed his and his matron's job were all but complete by now. They had gained new vessels, and thus could once more partake in the life, that had been them denied. Blessed creatures indeed.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I would much prefer to follow you there, if I may. It sounds as if there is plenty of work already to do, and a filing system to implement for future ease of use. I will of course, ensure that things related to the topic of your home world are categorized together, with sub-folders depending on the specific topic. It will make things easier to file and sort through, if you need to re-read anything of note at a later date.

While we are moving to Canterlot however, mind if I ask a few question? Namely, it sounds as if your division is new, yes? Who was it that founded it? One of the princess, or one of the generals? And in such case, which one? There is a market difference in approaches one will have to take, depending on if you are under the branch of the Solar, Night, or Coastal Guard. Same goes for if you are a special division, under the princesses command.

There is also the option of you being given station by the combined forces of the three guard branches, which is an entirely different approach as well, though rare. Most logically, I would imagine you were either granted command of your own division by Princess Luna, or General Morning Dew, of the Solar Guards. I hear the princess is more open and accepting of needing special forces, for special issues, and General Dew are known for seeing the bigger picture, and preparing what might be needed in the future. General Screecher is harder to get a read on, so I am uncertain of her position on this, and General Tidal Wave would be unlikely to have direct command over you. Your position does not relate much to her guard's general specialty, though she might be a supportive figure, in a joint effort division.

I ask, since handling your paperwork will be one thing, but beyond that comes further questions. Continued funding, potential expanded barracks, certain things that could be directed to your station, that could be of help, ease of requests for assistance, even if temporarily, and so forth. It is best to lay the ground work, so everything is ready, and no nasty surprised suddenly rear up.

I would also ask for your opinion on reformed creatures, as potential workers. Equestria tends to try and rehabilitate those troubling individuals who can be helped, which helps keep recurrent crime low. But some are either well known enough, or oddities, that make it hard to integrate them into normal society. There might be potential allies for you to recruit, if you were open-minded enough to let me procure files on the more agreeable ones. What you do with them, is of course your decision in the end, but I would advise that the avenue not be neglected, sir."

He were her boss now, even if she didn't have an official badge or anything at the moment, so she would address him properly. He would come to find that she were not the sort who spoke in few words in most cases, as time passed, but at least her long talks tended to hold purpose, and actual good advise. You just needed to be able to endure the lecture-long speeches at times, where speed were not of the essence.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-06-01 at 10:10 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"In normal circumstances I would laugh about how you'd even suggest a such a thing." Ruby stated, still looking at her leg as it shook, it was getting better, but it was still there  "But I am self-aware enough to know how foolish that would be." "My first thought is to blame the spell, maybe there's a side effect that I didn't know about, or maybe the dark magic interacted with it in some way that caused this." "But, that wouldn't explain why just the idea of transforming at all makes me suddenly feel.....sick." "So it does signal a psychological effect rather than physical side effect." "I am exhausted, so that may be part of it." "But I admit I'm slightly concerned, as even during the worst times of my life, I've never had this kind of reaction; it is usually easy to tell what's going on." "I need to keep an eye on this, see if it's just a one-off, because if not....it may be the time for Ruby Shine to die."

Leviathan were sympathetic, and waited for her time to try and say some reassuring words. She even had some in mind, that she hoped would get through, but then, Ruby had to say those last words. Implying that she needed to die... Perhaps it were but metaphorical, or meant as in she had to change, and her old self needed to go, but Leviathan were honestly, on an edge right now, and the mere mention of Ruby and death, made her eyes narrow, and anger flare.

"Die?! No, not now, not ever! Do you hear me? I am not gonna let you... I..."

She had to take a deep breath, and close her eyes, her emotions tearing at her, after she heard her own hard tone, and the anger flowing into her voice. She had to control this. She wasn't gonna devolve this into a shouting match. Not not.

So she would speak again, though her words were strained, and her tone not angry, but you could tell that she were trying to keep herself calm, and not being completely convincing, even if she sounded less confrontational.

"...Please, don't say that last, horrid thing right now, Ruby. My head is not in the right state of mind to think about if you mean that literally or not, so I'm having a very, Very hard time not starting to go into a rant about what I will do, if you even try and make it literal. Because I will not let you die. I care about you too much. From your best traits, to your worst flaws, and I'll be damned, if I will let anyone take you away from me. Yourself included."

She tried to keep her hands steady and calm, finding some minor strength, in Charir's presence. He was a soothing figure, in times like this. Someone whom she could care for, and find relief, in knowing he were safe. Might well have ended in her shouting if he wasn't here, if she were to be honest. Might still end that way, if things turned for the worse.

On 2024-06-01 at 10:10 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"You should worry about Charir and yourself more, I'm- " Ruby cut herself short "...I will be fine." she was going to say she was fine, but that was such a lie that she felt the need to rephrase it. 

"I can't stop caring about both of you. I thought you knew by now, that you both mean too much for me to do that. More than I think I have cared for anyone, since I buried my mother...

So no, I won't stop worrying about you. But I-"

Further did she not go, before the temple itself, seemed to let out a haunting moan, as the ground rumbled briefly where they stood. Something that Leviathan, in this moment reacted to as one might expect- She turned to the tower, hand raised, and shot a bolt of lightning out that rammed straight into the wall near the top, spreading from the impact.

"Shut. Up!"

Could she not have a singular, bloody moment, without something interrupting her! Did she need to turn this entire structure into slag to make it happen? Because she freaking would!

She'd seethe, growling at brick and mortar, as she directed her anger towards the now silent temple. Yet her arm trembled, betraying the fear she had felt, when she heard a noise. A potential sign of the things in there coming out here, to steal away those she cared about, and hurt them again. A thing she had gotten too face to face with already, and it terrified her.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Hmm..."

Neon would tap her chin a bit, thinking this over. The two had their priorities straight, but they were right, that to do something, they needed tools, and without money, it wasn't gonna be the easiest.

"I know Blitz took her tools with her, so scavenging those probably won't work...

There is one in the forest that miiight be able to help. I'm not completely sure, since I didn't talk to her myself, but we had a dragon in the hospital recently, for a biopsy. It's pretty rare somepony requests that, and a dragon? Unheard of, so the talk got around the hospital.

Anyway, Nurse Goodheart, said that she also had a damaged arm, and when she were talking about it, she mentioned she could do magic with iron and rocks. Maybe if we asked her, she could make you some tools, long as you had the metal to work with?

Although there's also scavenging. The forest is big, and sometimes, valuable things gets lost. Maybe if you found something, you could sell that, and then buy some tools from the blacksmith? Hay, maybe that dryad that settled down here recently, would know where some good stuff were? They can talk to animals and trees and stuff. She might know.

...Y'know, I'm starting to think I've lived so long in Ponyville, that I've gotten jaded over just how weird things have gotten recently."

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

 

@Evil Pink One

Certainly were a... Lively fellow this one, wasn't he? Seemed to shift between acting out in strange ways, and being seemingly just a regular pony. Though she supposed, oddities met, and Ponyville were a pot of weirdness, that just expanded by the day. He seemed harmless, and she had been around Pinkie Pie enough that this didn't openly faze her. Pinkie tended to cause you to question what were sane and extravagant at times.

"Your best bet would be to go to Fluttershy's cabin, yes. I'd suggest you treat her and any animal there nicely, because any scorn from her, will reflect poorly on hos Discord views you. And keep in mind she is rather timid, so be calm, and try to talk casually to her.

As it were, I'd suggest you bring Shark too. I think she might find her to be a disarming presence, long as she's calm. And it might let Discord know what kind of other draconequui he is dealing with. I'm sure there's some sort of signature, or style to their chaos, that would give him a hint."

She wasn't gonna say that Shark were good to bring along, because she were still somewhat of an animal. It weren't nice. At the same time though, she were... Well, a shark, and still reacted on many of her primal instincts. Fluttershy tended to do well with creatures like that.

"If there were nothing else, I should get to the next in line, and you should make use of the time, and go there today, while you have some time off before classes. Best to make use of your time efficiently, yes?"

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

 

@Lawyer Slip

Ziggy went over, and pulled both combatants into a side hug, with a hoof around each of them, whilst she beamed down at them.

"See? I knew you'd be bestest of rivals! Now you can push each other to be better, because you wanna win next time, and all that, yeah? And it was Real close too, Dashie. You might've won, if you hadn't gotten knocked slightly off course at the end. So no feeling bad, okay? You gave him a real run for his bits.

It's weird you still have energy though, Slipstream. You should've been panting at the least. Heh, probably just the adrenaline holding you up right now. We'll see when you calm down. It was a real good performance though, and a good win. I'm so proud of you two."

She'd squeeze them a bit more, then noticed something in the grass. A movement of two creatures headed their way, which would be revealed shortly after, as even though they were still some distance away, the grass had been pressed a little flat, after the booms. A solid rain would sort that out, but for now, you could really see  a fair bit of the ground level.

"Oh! Fah'lina! I'm over here!"

She'd rise the hoof she had around Slipstream, and waved at the creatures.

They both looked like squirrels, kind of. They were a little bigger, and their ears appeared to be very long, and attached to their feet, though their length were beyond that. They stayed somewhat stiff over the ground, following their back when running though, and were flexible enough so that they weren't in the way. They also had webbed hands and feet, indicating that they were aquatic in nature, if you looked closely. Strange squirrels indeed.

One of them seemed to have the general, typical red and white squirrel colors, whilst the other were more dark red and grey fur on the belly, and lower side of the head. It also had a large, red bow on its fluffy tail, and what seemed like two sowing needled, crossed through the fur of the tail, and the bow. Likely to keep them stuck when it were running.

They'd both stop before they got too close to the unknown ponies there, seemingly not wanting to get too up and personal just yet. Rather observing them, and for the former of the creatures especially, looking towards them with annoyance. Considering the big ears, one could venture a guess what the annoyance came from.

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-06-03 at 6:41 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Omen would be the first to step forth, and provide a hoof for him to examine, if he so wished. She tended to follow on such requests rather easily, seeing it as an experience, and generally not thinking there to be a bad meaning behind simple things like it. It tended to get her roped into traps a fair few times, but she wasn't dead yet, so it were still technically all experiences, that she could in theory learn from. Even though her gullibility didn't seem to wane a lot.

Vates examined Omen’s hoof, looking over the contours and attempted to do recall some of her previous knowledge on hoof readings. Unfortunately, an old practice like this didn’t seem to translate well to the current setting, as the gaps in her memories seem to be present in this instance. Physical features can provide some ideas on the kind of creature she were dealing with, along with predicting their future; this time may not be the case. She tried once more with Rosa, and again, there wasn’t much she could extrapolate based on her gaps, and it left her rather demoralized. 

C. G. could rest easy knowing that Vates wouldn’t be getting any information out of her. Even if she would have agreed to a hoof reading, the lack of results meant nothing would be divulged. 

“It is as I feared; the span of many lifetimes living as a disembodied voice in an orb has left me out of practice. I apologize if you had hoped something would come from the hoof readings. I suppose we have to now identify what will become of ourselves now that we have our lives back.” 

As for Magus, Scarcity’s quick solution and Hammond’s gate would have the golem now fiddling with a buildable staff. He thought it was a little bit on the childish side, and there was something to be said about seeing a golem playing around with a prop wand, but he did say “any would do.” Sen and Lin found the sight a little on the comical side, though they’d hold themselves from letting out some chuckles. 

On 2024-06-03 at 6:41 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I tend to invest in various upstarts, if they can convince me the venture is sound. This is a prototype I were given, from one wanting to open a costume shop, focused on providing all inclusive kits. I had one more interested in these things test it for me, but I do admire the ingenuity, and the quality, and my friend were impressed enough for me to feel confident in investing. I were asked to keep this, as a personal thank you, and kept it in my office, until I find where to put it.

Doesn't take a lot of space, and adjustable for foals to adults, in a practical box for storage between uses, and sent country wide. There's potential in that kind of business.

Ah, but I mean not to talk your ear off. I think that perhaps the staff, or parts of it, should be usable for your request, yes? I assure you, I can procure something more potent another time, but this should suffice for a test run as it were, yes?"

It wouldn’t take long until Magus finished constructing the staff with the four-piece wooden shaft and a crystal ball, and he began channeling some of his own magic. Fortunately, his skills and powers remained intact, and he soon found himself casting some basic levitation spells, tidying his makeshift workspace and leaving nought but the wooden box. Then, he’d proceed to trying casting some spells on himself, conjuring a small ball of starlight and imbuing some loose pebbles with magic before dropping them on the ground. 

“My thanks, Lady Scarcity. It is good to know that the transference maintained aspects of our old selves in these new vessels. I believe this equipment is yours though, so I would need to set out and prepare and construct my own catalyst.”

“I take it your catalyst needs special materials?” 

“Durable materials are a given, but that mostly pertains to the staff’s shaft. The head usually needs a gemstone, with rare and pure stones being more sought after because of their ability to conduct magic better. Fewer imperfections are preferable, and emeralds are commonly chosen. But you need not worry about our matters; let us shoulder that burden instead.” 

On 2024-06-03 at 6:41 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"No, everything seems in order now. All can speak and move, no stiffness out of the ordinary, and I can feel your souls and energies, settling into the vessels as they should. My job is complete, and I deem you safe and complete. Marble? You may relinquish the orb to their safekeep once more."

Marble would do so, moving in closer to the archivist, and reaching the orb down to him, palms up.

"She needed certainty, that you were stable. It would be tragic, were you to accidentally destroy this.

Be blessed, wayward souls. Enjoy life once more."

While the remaining golems mingled with the others, Scriniarii picked up the orb that once housed them. In all honesty, he never thought he’d find himself living as a breathing creature again; he looked to the others in the room and recalled the question posed to him previously by the siblings. Though they have given them their answer before, there was an air of uncertainty and they may find themselves reevaluating their responses. He bowed to Marble and the Stone Matron and smiled, grateful for this second chance at life and noticing that he picked up the siblings’ practice of bowing. 

“I, and my fellows, thank you for accommodating and giving us these new bodies, as well as looking after the orb’s safety. Preserving the orb’s contents was of the utmost importance, but it is good to know that you were looking out for it as much as us.” 

“Now that we are separated, that makes us free to choose our paths. I guess this is when we must decide… right?”

The other golems joined the archivist, huddling around and speaking amongst themselves. Their voices wouldn’t be louder than mere murmurs, but one could hear hints of a heated conversation. Just like their previous conversation when they were still in the orb, they couldn’t act in step with each other, suggesting a clash among their differing viewpoints. Eventually, they would rejoin the others once their talk was over.

“It sounded like you didn’t agree with something back there. Is it something we should be concerned about?”

“We were only reevaluating what becomes of us now that we have debts to repay. The first of which is for the Stone Matron: how can we repay you for your efforts? The second relates to the agreement with Lady Scarcity, though that may be a matter best settled in private?”

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

 @EQ_Theta

On 2024-06-05 at 12:55 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“It is as I feared; the span of many lifetimes living as a disembodied voice in an orb has left me out of practice. I apologize if you had hoped something would come from the hoof readings. I suppose we have to now identify what will become of ourselves now that we have our lives back.” 

"I do not know what a hoof reading is. I was just curious."

"Perhaps it is something that will become clearer in the future? You have been disembodied for quite some time, yes? The sensation of living is but one thing you need to get reacquainted with. Previous skills will require to be retrained and likely adjusted for the presence of new beings, that you were unfamiliar with in your time. Give not up on skills you possessed, er you try and see, if it is but practice and adaption you require. Both things that can be well attained with time, and effort."

"Heh. The bookworm's right. Give yourself a chance to get on your hooves first, then see what you got going for yourself."

C. G. would poke Rosa's nose after his little speech, making him wrinkle his snout briefly. He was just as much of a dictionary on legs now, as he had ever been. Likely to talk someone to sleep, rather than knock them out. But hey, it got him places. Granted, one of those places were on the dangerous side of treason, but no need to be narrowing your view here. Considering everything he had to work with, all the way from when she had first seen him, he were doing remarkably well, even if you could tell he had spent a lot of time, with his nose buried in books.

She wondered how much he had actually told his friends about his past, beyond what he thought were important... Might be she'd have a chance to question him later. She went and said it because she didn't want to accidentally oust him, he might be willing to share a little with her.

On 2024-06-05 at 12:55 AM, EQ_Theta said:

It wouldn’t take long until Magus finished constructing the staff with the four-piece wooden shaft and a crystal ball, and he began channeling some of his own magic. Fortunately, his skills and powers remained intact, and he soon found himself casting some basic levitation spells, tidying his makeshift workspace and leaving nought but the wooden box. Then, he’d proceed to trying casting some spells on himself, conjuring a small ball of starlight and imbuing some loose pebbles with magic before dropping them on the ground. 

“My thanks, Lady Scarcity. It is good to know that the transference maintained aspects of our old selves in these new vessels. I believe this equipment is yours though, so I would need to set out and prepare and construct my own catalyst.”

“I take it your catalyst needs special materials?” 

“Durable materials are a given, but that mostly pertains to the staff’s shaft. The head usually needs a gemstone, with rare and pure stones being more sought after because of their ability to conduct magic better. Fewer imperfections are preferable, and emeralds are commonly chosen. But you need not worry about our matters; let us shoulder that burden instead.” 

"Hmhm. Flawless emeralds. Such a valued, sought after commodity. Not something one finds with ease, lest they know where to even begin to look. Nor would the proper materials for a staff.

The ironwood cultivated on the Thestral island of the Nightwoods, would do good, but of course, they don't just let those things sit around, nor are they anywhere near us. And the emeralds. Aaah, were one only to know of a being, who had connections to the trade, or knew certain mine owners. Why, it would be simplicity itself, to acquire such treasured things."

Scarcity smirked ever so slightly more than normally, with the matron sending her a side glance. She knew what the mare were implying, even before she were done with her setup. At which point, Scarcity went closer to Magus, once he were done with his practice casting.

"Let me ponder your conundrum for a spell dear, while we ensure everything else have been handled. Perhaps I might still be of some assistance to you and yours, hm?"

Certainly, they might be useful workers to her, in some capacity, but they wouldn't have to be enthralled, such as Rosa had been. There were value in favors, and she would gladly exchange some of her current ones, if she gained others of value. And Magus and his kin, were beings that she suspected would be valuable to be on the good side of. And to have owe you a favor or two.

But she would see. First they had other matters to attend, and then from her end, would come a sign of trust. After that, they would see if perhaps they could all come to help one another, more than they already had.

On 2024-06-05 at 12:55 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I, and my fellows, thank you for accommodating and giving us these new bodies, as well as looking after the orb’s safety. Preserving the orb’s contents was of the utmost importance, but it is good to know that you were looking out for it as much as us.” 

“Now that we are separated, that makes us free to choose our paths. I guess this is when we must decide… right?”

Marble would bow in turn. An act that many of his kin, would not be want to do with any ease. They were a proud and stubborn people. Warriors and hunters, that wouldn't simply bend the knee, or offer the respect of as much as a nod, without knowing they did so, to someone that had earned that respect. Had the golems met a more typical minotaur, they would be likely to gain little more than a snort of acknowledgment, he would think.

But Marble were humbled by a long life, and the teachings of the Marble who came before him.

When he came here in his youth, bewildered why the area drew on his senses, he were no less stubborn. He considered those he found to be weak, and their teachings both delusional, and meaningless. Yet as he had tried to charge in, wanting to show them his ideals were mightier, the matron had trounced him with ease. Her might unmistakable, and conviction harder than the stone she inhabited.

And yet, it were not her that had become his inspiration, but instead the Marble before him. The stallion approaching, tending to his wounds, and talking to him at this low point, as if he were a kindred spirit, and friend.

He had offered the minotaur answers, as to what drew him here, and showed him that he had gifts, that he hadn't known of. He offered him a different purpose, and though he had at first rejected, the minotaur had returned, knowing in his heart, that he belonged not in his village, but here.

The Marble of old, took him on as his apprentice, saying that he knew him to be the one, who would one day take his place. And through his tutelage, and example, the minotaur had tamed his own fire, and found the peace and humility, that he had been taught were weaknesses to abhor. And full glad were he that he had.

He still waited for the clay to call the one, who would stand in his place, but he had faith that the day would come. If not, he still had several students, who might yet prove to shine brightly.

As the golems would wander off to speak, he would join the others in the quarry. His role in this were done, and he would appreciate a rest now. Though it had looked like little, his acts in this, and crafting the golems, were taxing. It would be good to recouperate his strength.

On 2024-06-05 at 12:55 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“It sounded like you didn’t agree with something back there. Is it something we should be concerned about?”

“We were only reevaluating what becomes of us now that we have debts to repay. The first of which is for the Stone Matron: how can we repay you for your efforts? The second relates to the agreement with Lady Scarcity, though that may be a matter best settled in private?”

"You owe me nothing. She paid in full for you, bringing my lost feathers back, and getting the needed materials here at unprecedented speed. Seeing you live once more, is all the payment I would wish for you.

Though I do ponder why she held my feathers in the first place."

The matron would glare towards Scarcity, who would let out a short, pearly laughter.

"Be at ease, matron. I only had them but a few years. They were found in the possession of the less than dearly departed, Commodore Saltlick. And before you ask, the answer is yes. I knew well what they were, not long after.

I were but waiting for an opportune moment to return them. And as luck would have it, one then arose."

"Hmph. I knew of Saltlick, and it seems a thing he would do. A waste of breath, that will not be missed.

Now for you, and the rest of yours, Scriniarii, be at peace in the world. And if your bodies starts to break in the future, return here. We can mend what wounds might come."

The matron were ready for them to leave, yet to go where they were needed for Scarcity's deal, they would need Hammond. Who currently had about a dozen golem makers of varying races, pet him and admire his antics. He seemed to enjoy the attention, showing off his gaping maw and gates, with gasps of intrigued curiosity and wonder.

"It warms the heart to see him making friends, does it not? It is almost a shame to leave. But then, it simply gives him another place to want to visit in the future. Another area of welcoming faces, where he might explore and grow.

Fully glad am I, that he has stopped trying to eat rocks too. I would much prefer he did not end up breaking his teeth on trying the local cuisine, so to speak.

Ah, but I talk with no end. Scriniarii? When you and yours are ready, do please gather, and I will lead us to somewhere me might talk freely. Of our present, and your futures."

Edited June 6 by Blitz Boom

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-06-06 at 6:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

 "I do not know what a hoof reading is. I was just curious."

"Perhaps it is something that will become clearer in the future? You have been disembodied for quite some time, yes? The sensation of living is but one thing you need to get reacquainted with. Previous skills will require to be retrained and likely adjusted for the presence of new beings, that you were unfamiliar with in your time. Give not up on skills you possessed, er you try and see, if it is but practice and adaption you require. Both things that can be well attained with time, and effort."

"Heh. The bookworm's right. Give yourself a chance to get on your hooves first, then see what you got going for yourself."

“Hoof reading is a method of divination or the search for knowledge about the future through examination of your hoof’s physical features. Lines, textures, and physical appearances are some of the aspects examined to predict the future. It was, at least in my time, an esoteric art, though many such arts did not survive the passage of time. One such practice I’ve heard about long ago is called tyromancy, or the telling fortunes through cheese.”

Lin let out an uncharacteristically loud snort before quickly recomposing herself. The oddity of such a thing just came so far left-field she had to do a double-take. “I’m sorry but you’re joking, right? Cheese?! How does that work?”

“Examining how molds grew, as well as veins and curds, were just some of the parts observed depending on the purpose of divination. I did not dabble in such arts, though I have learned of it in passing. The smell alone was enough to deter many from practicing it.” Vates’ matter-of-fact delivery provided a very distinctive contrast to Lin’s reaction, such that she may have surmised that others may have reacted the same way upon hearing of tyromancy.

“Your kind words are appreciated. A new lease on life presents opportunities, but one must also discern what parts of an old life should be discarded to accommodate living in a new era. The world I came from is vastly different compared to today, and perhaps divination is no longer widely practiced, becoming niche parlor tricks.”

The golem had grown noticeably sullen over this thought. As much as she viewed this new life as a chance to start over, having to do so from scratch was a difficult thing to contend with. She was a diviner many lifetimes ago, but the current age may no longer need such. In a way, the world moved on without her in more ways than one. 

On 2024-06-06 at 6:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Hmhm. Flawless emeralds. Such a valued, sought after commodity. Not something one finds with ease, lest they know where to even begin to look. Nor would the proper materials for a staff.

The ironwood cultivated on the Thestral island of the Nightwoods, would do good, but of course, they don't just let those things sit around, nor are they anywhere near us. And the emeralds. Aaah, were one only to know of a being, who had connections to the trade, or knew certain mine owners. Why, it would be simplicity itself, to acquire such treasured things."

Scarcity smirked ever so slightly more than normally, with the matron sending her a side glance. She knew what the mare were implying, even before she were done with her setup. At which point, Scarcity went closer to Magus, once he were done with his practice casting.

"Let me ponder your conundrum for a spell dear, while we ensure everything else have been handled. Perhaps I might still be of some assistance to you and yours, hm?"

“The idea of crafting a new catalyst with prized materials is an enticing one. However, I believe that such things are not so simple to acquire, and compromises must be made to ensure such a thing can happen. I suppose this means that we may have to speak of terms, but there will be time for that, I’m sure.”

“I may need to do some research to learn more about how the world has changed. Advances in knowledge will mean the ways I grew up with no longer apply. It’ll be interesting to learn more about this modern age.” 

Magus was privy to the transactional nature of working with Scarcity. Their previous talk, at a time when the golems were in the orb, had given him some idea about what he and the others could expect moving forward. In truth, he had expected some things from his old life would remain true. Even his predicament of living in the orb as a disembodied voice was the product of one transaction.

But thoughts and experiences from a bygone age could be examined in a different time and place. Right now, their futures, at least physically, were set in stone, literally speaking. It was good to know that they could return here should their bodies need further examination, and they wouldn’t need to worry about paying one of their debts.

On 2024-06-06 at 6:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"It warms the heart to see him making friends, does it not? It is almost a shame to leave. But then, it simply gives him another place to want to visit in the future. Another area of welcoming faces, where he might explore and grow.

Fully glad am I, that he has stopped trying to eat rocks too. I would much prefer he did not end up breaking his teeth on trying the local cuisine, so to speak.

Ah, but I talk with no end. Scriniarii? When you and yours are ready, do please gather, and I will lead us to somewhere me might talk freely. Of our present, and your futures."

“Your… small companion? He is a curiosity; it wasn’t uncommon for creatures to be companions in our time, but to see one that appears to be acclimating to pony behaviors and mannerisms like wearing accessories… It is a new sight, one that would baffle our kind if they were to see it today.” 

“Doesn’t it make you want one? Who knows what kinds of situations you’ll find yourself in.”

“Taking care of one is a commitment, and I would not take a creature in if I knew I could not support it. Best we remain vigilant of our capabilities lest we overextend ourselves and underdeliver to others.”

The five golems smiled, appreciating the kind words of the Stone Matron before turning to Scarcity, as they observed Hammond with interest. How times must have changed when various creatures of different types are living together in shared spaces. This may be something worth looking into in their free time. Alas, without much left to hold them back from leaving, the five came together, unanimous in their next move. Likewise, Sen and Lin would also be ready to depart with the others. 

“I believe we are ready. Please lead the way.” 

Edited June 8 by EQ_Theta

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom

Solar nodded and started leading the way, first heading towards the local guard office to inform them about his find in the water, he did not interrupt Magma. "You are correct at assuming that the division is new, while my duties have been the same for a decent time now, it was only recently the branch was created." "While I don't know the exact details of the founding, it was the Princesses who appointed me to my role, and both of them were present."  "When it comes to the branches of the guard, I, we, are in a unique spot." "As my custom armor implies, an entirely new branch has been formed, Though I believe the exact name is still under works, and currently we are simply 'Royal Guards', and my jurisdiction is equally unique." "While you'll find the more official language in the papers, the short of it is, in regular guard duties, I, and by extension, those under me, have no authority, and in case we get involved, we are under the command of whoever is set to be the commanding officer." "However, in cases that fall under our branch, that being any and all anomalies outside this world's current level of understanding of magic and technology, we are the highest authority right after the princesses themselves." 

"We of course cooperate as much as possible with the other branches, and if it is established that a case falling under our authority doesn't require special procedure and poses no increased risk to other guards, we can release it under the jurisdiction of the regular guard branches, an example of this would be the two kobolds I hinted at before; due to their origin, they are a clear example of what is our responsibility, but because they pose no threat to ponies, nor do they require more than what a skilled fighter from here would require in case they became dangerous; it is not necessary to have us keep watch over them." "And less professionally, they hate me to such extend that it is actually safer for someone else to interact with them." "I'll brief you more on them after we get to Canterlot." 

"And while funding, space and other such matters are important and probably come relevant eventually, the issues currently are on the other end, I have funding, I have jurisdiction, and I have been provided enough barracks space for a good sized team, but, the trouble is to get fitting recruits and equipment, because we deal with tactics, magic and technology centuries ahead this world; To put it into an example, it won't help much that you are bit better with a spear than some other guard, when your opponent made spears obsolete 800 years ago." 

 "Which brings me to your last question."  "Not only do I accept, 'oddities', as you put it, I prefer them, in fact, they don't even need to be the most agreeable ones, as long as they are more good than harm." "The threats we face are such in nature that there is no realistic way for us to create counters for them through the normal channels; Thus we need ideas and abilities beyond normalcy, and yes, it also means things that may go against the common opinions of ponies, we of course follow morality and law, but just because someone is shunned, doesn't mean they are truly awful." 

When they would eventually reach the office, he would only be there for few minutes, his message/report being basically 'there's a body here, no need to touch it as it is quite deep, but if it does someday come to the surface, collect it and inform him.' though of course in more professional manner, and he'd then lead them towards the train station to get to Canterlot, he would provide Magma with tickets, unless she really insisted otherwise for reason or another.

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

Ruby put her leg on Leviathan's shoulder, though due to her size, it was more two...toes? fingers? than the whole leg, and naturally she avoided pressing to strongly "I won't even pretend that I understand this....emotional state you are in, but you don't need to hold it in." "What I said was literal, but my name is not Ruby Shine, I'm just Ruby, Ruby Shine is the solitary earth pony who lives next to a dragon pony hybrid and a chronically tired pegasus." "Ruby Shine is the pony who got us into this situation in the first place." "I may not see much value in my own life, but it is not to that extend, I still have the drive to survive after all, even if for nothing else than to spite those who want to see me fall" unsurprisingly, Ruby had no idea how to comfort someone in Leviathan's emotional state. She sniffed Leviathan after her reaction to the noise"You are scared." she sounded almost concerned "I can smell it." Charir had reacted to the noise, though his reaction was more fearful, as he tensed up ready to flee again, so Ruby, in her very limited experience in these things, opened her wing and wrapped it around the two smaller dragons in a way that it worked as a barrier between them and the temple. "We are all outside, it's fine, it's over, take a deep breath." "You've drained lot of magic, I saw the pain you were in using it, it's time to calm down and rest."

Charir, while scared himself still, not helped by the sudden seemingly angry outburst from Leviathan, could also smell the fear that was not his own, so he wanted to help, as even he could tell that Leviathan wasn't necessarily thinking straight; he would know, such a coward he was; so, with his even lesser experience with these things, he did the only thing he could think of based on what it felt having been done to him; leaning slightly on Leviathan and Ruby's leg, he lifted himself up on two legs enough to be able to pet Leviathan on the head. 

Ruby of course kept an eye on the temple. 

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

"While not bad suggestions by themselves, there's some things." Trox pointed out in friendly manner "While the dragon is a interesting idea, we don't have good spare metal either, and that needs either money to buy or tools to mine it." "And while scavenging is very much something we do, does enough things, that aren't traceable to the owner, go missing for it to be a good consistent source of currency? Since tools are only part of the whole." "We can eventually feed ourselves and get income through our own skills, but it will take a bigger first investment for us to get started, and some time for us to learn enough about the local area to know what we have access to, so we need something relatively consistent." "Is there any place where one can look for work? Usual stuff you know?" 

 

 

 

 

[Lawyer Slip 2,528]

@Blitz Boom

"He sure did give me a run for his bits Ziggy. I'm still amazed you went that fast without tearing your wings apart however. I heard a story once where somepony tried to go faster than the speed of light, and didn't exactly come back in one piece. I'm also amazed you still have that much energy. It's rather perplexing."

"I try not to think about it too much. I just let the energy run its course and then eventually it'll peter out over time. It happened the last time I made a Rainboom, while I was racing Rich."

*Then, the three noticed Fah'lina, and stopped to watch. Slipstream observed the large ears carefully from a distance. Wondering what their main function was, and if it was for gliding, or for another purpose of sorts.*

*As soon as Rich saw the squirrel-like critters, he pulled out his emergency sheets, and started folding. Occasionally looking up to made sure he got the shape right. With the occasional twitching of the nose and other body parts, this did make folding rather tricky.*

"Is this who you were telling me about earlier Ziggy? Fah'lina, I believe you said was her name? She's pretty cute."

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-06-08 at 10:57 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Examining how molds grew, as well as veins and curds, were just some of the parts observed depending on the purpose of divination. I did not dabble in such arts, though I have learned of it in passing. The smell alone was enough to deter many from practicing it.” Vates’ matter-of-fact delivery provided a very distinctive contrast to Lin’s reaction, such that she may have surmised that others may have reacted the same way upon hearing of tyromancy.

“Your kind words are appreciated. A new lease on life presents opportunities, but one must also discern what parts of an old life should be discarded to accommodate living in a new era. The world I came from is vastly different compared to today, and perhaps divination is no longer widely practiced, becoming niche parlor tricks.”

"I can't say I heard about divination through cheese before, but it at least sounds to be rather harmless, albeit smelly. Least it is not divination through fresh blood, or organs of some kind. Though I can't say I know the technical terms for those."

C. G. narrowed her eyes at him, and he'd meet her gaze, seemingly unfazed, for the few seconds it took for her to go into a wide grin. Something still strange to him, as she still had the overall looks of Scarcity, even if her stance, behavior, and voice were her normal ones. Or at least he assumed that were it, though it might be another layer of her deception. She were annoyingly good at what she did.

"Nope, he's lying. You know exactly what they're called. You just don't want me to poke fun at you again, for being a lil' nerdy colt, do you?"

He wouldn't answer, but would look away, which just got a chuckle out of her. She had missed poking fun at Rosa. He was a great punching bag, and it was especially good to see him able to take it, and not being the sullen, self-deprecating mess that she had seen before leaving the village. Getting some friends - oddballs as they were - had done him wonders.

"It can be hard, adapting to a new world. Master Discord gave me form, and took me to a world of chaos. When he was gone, everything was different, and wrong. I did not know how things worked, and no one wanted to talk to me. So I went home, and waited for him to come back, and everything to be normal again. A thousand years, until Mother told me I could not wait longer.

I tried to learn things myself, but I do not understand most things here. His world, is not the same as theirs.

Sen, Lin and Rosa, would listen, and have taught me things. Maybe if you have some who wants to listen, it will help you too?"

She tilted her head, though her gaze remained on Vates.

Her experience were not the same. She understood that. He came from a different time, and so did she, but he had knowledge, and understanding in the first place. She had nothing, and were tossed alone into a world so opposite of what she knew, that it were near impossible for her to advance in it. Even if she did try, the random times she did go back, to look for Discord, but never finding a trace of him.

Mother had meant well, when she told her to go and try to live and learn, the best she could, but Mother were not a fool. She knew it were not easy, and never would be, and yet she had to make her daughter try, in the hopes that in leu of a master, she would one day find kind creatures who would help her. It had taken longer than expected, but the time had come, with the meeting between Sen and Omen, and things had but taken off rapidly since that time.

This were her burden to overcome, and that of Vates and the others would be different. But it seemed like the solution were the same to her: Find someone willing to help them learn, and form a friendship with them. Seek help, from those who could.

In her opinion, Scarcity would be good. She did not understand the extend of what her help usually entailed in the long run, but she were a smart pony, who knew lots of things, and Omen could tell that her brother did well, with her as his master. So to her, the well off mare would be a good help. But she were not their master. She would say what she thought, and what they then did with it? That were up to them. She just figured she would try and help.

On 2024-06-08 at 10:57 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“The idea of crafting a new catalyst with prized materials is an enticing one. However, I believe that such things are not so simple to acquire, and compromises must be made to ensure such a thing can happen. I suppose this means that we may have to speak of terms, but there will be time for that, I’m sure.”

“I may need to do some research to learn more about how the world has changed. Advances in knowledge will mean the ways I grew up with no longer apply. It’ll be interesting to learn more about this modern age.” 

"You would enjoy a trip to the Canterlot Public Library then, I'm sure. There's a marvelous wealth of information there, that should help you to catch up to the current day. And you wouldn't need to worry of entrance. Long as you do not cause trouble there, or bring harm the books, the library is free for all to use, regardless of race. Can you read ponish though? Or the common tongue, as it is also called in other placed. You speak it well at the least, so if you can read it well too, it should prove a resourceful place for you and yours."

It seemed the two had an accord, with him acknowledging a certain degree of compromise, in exchange for getting the better materials he would want for. This were a fine start, with details a thing for them to consider at some other time. Preferably away from prying eyes, even if she knew the matron cared not for her dealings. She only wanted to know if it were Scarcity herself who had stolen her feathers, and with that not being the case, everything else were firmly nothing she had an interest in getting involved with.

As for the library, they would need to get into Canterlot first, but she could handle that simply enough, and long as they were in there, even if they would get some looks, it would be considered safe, since they had after all, passed the security perimeter around the capitol. Even if some zealous guards would likely keep a close eye for a time.

That said, the stone they were made from, did have color nuance, as the clay used were mixed with the colors that should imitate their colors well. Though if they had forgotten what colors they were, they could simply give inputs too. It would look somewhat dark and mat, but it were better than simply being one solid color. Which the matron mostly were, but that were by choice. These? A little clothes perhaps to cover a bit if they wished it, and none would know better at a glance.

On 2024-06-08 at 10:57 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Your… small companion? He is a curiosity; it wasn’t uncommon for creatures to be companions in our time, but to see one that appears to be acclimating to pony behaviors and mannerisms like wearing accessories… It is a new sight, one that would baffle our kind if they were to see it today.” 

“Doesn’t it make you want one? Who knows what kinds of situations you’ll find yourself in.”

“Taking care of one is a commitment, and I would not take a creature in if I knew I could not support it. Best we remain vigilant of our capabilities lest we overextend ourselves and underdeliver to others.”

The five golems smiled, appreciating the kind words of the Stone Matron before turning to Scarcity, as they observed Hammond with interest. How times must have changed when various creatures of different types are living together in shared spaces. This may be something worth looking into in their free time. Alas, without much left to hold them back from leaving, the five came together, unanimous in their next move. Likewise, Sen and Lin would also be ready to depart with the others. 

“I believe we are ready. Please lead the way.” 

"I will admit, the little jacket were my idea. He needed something with him, and my tailor had an idea for a fetching little ensemble for him. Normally I wouldn't advocate for putting clothes on animals, but Hammond is not a simple animal.

To make it short, he is from a place between worlds, just as Omen are. Their kind are formless, but with applied magic, they can be formed to get shapes, as well as access to the dimension of the magic user. Their masters, as they call us. I choose this form for Hammond, because the Discordian Knight Squirrels - or Mimics, as some deign to call them - are among my most favored creatures. Yet they have been a race on the brink of extinction in the past. Which is why I have made sure to finance several areas they have been spotted in, to make safe sanctuaries for them, and by all accounts, they are starting to thrive again.

When the time is right, I will introduce my dear Hammond to them, that he can mingle with them some, and perhaps learn a little. Though it might take a little. For one, they do not have three eyes. For another, he doesn't speak. Peculiarly, despite not having much of a form before I chose him, he yet remains completely mute.

Ah, but small talk can wait for another time. Hammond? If you would please, lead us to the place we prepared earlier?"

Hammond would perk his ears and flap over, after briefly patting the various creatures that gave him their attention, with his small paws.

Once he were over, he'd open a gate for them all to wander through, leading to the dark world of him and Omen's kind. Creatures who would start to slowly flock around, in the myriad masses of dark, formless blobs, and pale eyes in many shapes and sizes. Including one that were rather close to them, with a singular eyeball, that appeared the size of Hammonds whole body. The gaze were innocent and curious, as it were with them all, but the sheer size might prove slightly unnerving.

They would whisper in different voices, those nearby, speaking unknown languages, that Omen would respond to in kind. Hammond in the meantime, would lead them on, whilst more would gather up, and eye the golems curiously. Especially the one with the staff, were a mixture of various ones, would raise a gooey tentacle, and poke at the staff itself, gently and tentatively.

"Our siblings find you interesting."

Hammond would open a gate soon after, leading them to what seemed a softly lit hallway. The siblings did not stop coming for this reason, though they did not speak in ponish currently. One would form a gooey mass and slither around Magus's right front leg, feeling his leg with a mass that would be reminiscent of a cooled tube of airy oil, and looked up at him with a pair of snake-like, slit eyes.

"Magic one?"

It wouldn't try and hold him, if they moved on. The siblings were always curious, and hoping for masters. Omen having given several of them masters in recent times, were starting to be seen as a sign too by some of the less air-headed, that the ones she were with, that they had not seen, might be potential new masters. 

The hallways itself, were simple. Not in her office, but instead in a house elsewhere, that she had made ready, and flipping a switch, would illuminate the hall, that would move a bit further, before hitting a door. Opening said door, would open up for a comfortable looking basement room. Chairs and a cough around, allowing for places to rest, as well as boxes of unmarked origin or content, stacked against one wall. Int he midst, were a large, open area, with something stood in the midst, covered in dark red cloth. Seemed like a wide pedestal of sorts.

"Ah, a bit of privacy. How delightful. Would you not agree, Brick?"

Her bodyguard would grunt from the shadows of the corner, where he had stood and waited for her to return.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"By your description, I would say your position are alike the special ops teams, for the various guards. They are beholden only to the generals, and the princesses, and in case of emergency, have the authority to stand against either, for the sake of the kingdom. Your position are similar, as in you are beholden only to the one who employ you, which would signify you as a Specialization Team, outside of the boundaries of the regular guards. You may not wish for more funding or space right now, but I know where to file the paperwork required, to a certain extend, and can spend some free time looking it up at a later point, to see the expanded range of offerings that can be sought after.

As a practical pony yourself, I believe you find it agreeable that in case you do require something, it would be  a benefit to not be slowed down by having to start the paperwork and research at the time you need it, and instead have the basics researched and analyzed, so things can get on track as quickly as is needed, at the time you require it? A small amount of preparation work can be quite helpful, in getting things sorted in a timely manner."

She could personally attest that not being prepared, could also be disastrous. And from his more war-torn tyrannical homeland, she were somewhat certain that Solar also had experienced what not being ready for things, could cause of harm. As such she felt fairly certain that he would agree with her on this, but she would still listen, and not make it a priority. Sorting through the current paperwork, as well as the aspect of her suggestions that he did deem pressing, would be the first tasks at hoof for her to handle, and then idle time could be spent going above and beyond those tasks. It would keep her somewhat busy, and she were not one who enjoyed being bored for too long. Better to keep active, in one way or another.

"As for your last argument, I will make contact and look around with the local prison system, as well as rehabilitation centers. Even if not in Canterlot, they will have heard of oddities as it were, that were in the system, and as such I can request more direct information, when I have names, and things to work from. Would you prefer I procured that list before or after I handle the paperwork for the day, sir?"

Regardless of his answer, she would follow him, and would not interject if he went and got her a train ticket. Though as they boarded the train, she did wonder if perhaps he had a form, or basis level idea of how he wanted things worded. She did have some paper, so she could start to fill things out on the road, if she got some direction as to how he wanted it done. Unless there were more official papers that were required in his office. She could wait, and simply scribble down some pointers for the time being, as needed. She would prove that he were not going to regret, leaving her in charge of the paperwork.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-06-09 at 2:50 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby put her leg on Leviathan's shoulder, though due to her size, it was more two...toes? fingers? than the whole leg, and naturally she avoided pressing to strongly "I won't even pretend that I understand this....emotional state you are in, but you don't need to hold it in." "What I said was literal, but my name is not Ruby Shine, I'm just Ruby, Ruby Shine is the solitary earth pony who lives next to a dragon pony hybrid and a chronically tired pegasus." "Ruby Shine is the pony who got us into this situation in the first place." "I may not see much value in my own life, but it is not to that extend, I still have the drive to survive after all, even if for nothing else than to spite those who want to see me fall" unsurprisingly, Ruby had no idea how to comfort someone in Leviathan's emotional state. She sniffed Leviathan after her reaction to the noise"You are scared." she sounded almost concerned "I can smell it."

Leviathan wasn't even gonna deny it. Why bother? She knew it, well as they did. Her arm shaking, her reaction, on the slightest thing happening... She knew she were terrified to her core, afraid that whatever were in there, would come out and grab them. And it wasn't even herself she were worried about, despite how she tended to favor self preservation. It was them. Ruby, Charir... They had been in severe danger in there, and she couldn't do anything to save them. She had tried, and whilst it gave Charir a small chance to run, he had still been trapped, whilst her and Ruby were dragged off and cursed. All her power, amassed to absolutely nothing in there, and now, she were afraid that any sound she heard from it, were them preparing to go out and put them back out of safety.

Much as having them near kept her somewhat stable, and she did get some comfort from Ruby's touch and words, that fear were just not letting go of her. Proven as she lashed out, using up of her magic reserves, who had yet to get a chance to replenish over the last day or so of rough usage. Something that just made her feel more vulnerable.

On 2024-06-09 at 2:50 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Charir, while scared himself still, not helped by the sudden seemingly angry outburst from Leviathan, could also smell the fear that was not his own, so he wanted to help, as even he could tell that Leviathan wasn't necessarily thinking straight; he would know, such a coward he was; so, with his even lesser experience with these things, he did the only thing he could think of based on what it felt having been done to him; leaning slightly on Leviathan and Ruby's leg, he lifted himself up on two legs enough to be able to pet Leviathan on the head. 

Ruby of course kept an eye on the temple. 

She'd stand in position, not acting or saying anything more, as she tried to let the anger over the interruption, cover over her fear. Yet it failed miserably, much as she wanted that to not be the case. She only lasted for about as long as it took Charir to add in his own comforting pats. before Leviathan's arm would go limp, and she'd lean into Ruby full on, covering under her wing, and embracing her leg. Though she managed to hold back the cries, her body still shook, and her breathing were uneven.

A few minutes passed, and out the temple, came Spicy, absolutely covered in dust.

"Bloody hells. I swear, we clear that room out, things seem to just ebb out, and then all of a sudden, the walls shake a half ton of dust, right down on my head. Urgh, I can still taste it. I need some whiskey and a..."

She'd suddenly notice the scene, of what seemed like a tender moment of sorts here, or at least something that appeared a bit more loving and warm hearted than she would've thought to return to.

"Aight, I get the feeling I'm interrupting somethin' here... You folks okay?"

behind her, the deer would calmly wander out, looking about the same as he did when they entered, though he were wearing a necklace now. Nothing impressive, just a cats eye jewel, in the middle of an onyx, downwards triangle. The onyx did appear to be made from a gem called a Night Pearl. A large variant too. Usually rather expensive, but not cut up like this. It were more of a novelty now, with the historical value being the only thing really of note. And the long, golden chain. The thing were dangling all the way down to where his legs started.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I mean, if the dragon can work with metal and stone, pretty sure she could find some metal to work with too, but it's your decision. So let's see, work work... It kinda depends what sort of work you're after.

If you're looking for a service industry job, you could try at Sloppy Joe's. It's a coffee shop, owned by Star Hat. He tend to hire folks who are a bit unusual, long as they pull their weight. Though I don't know if he needs any right now.

Menial labor is simple. Go to the Apple farm. We're just about ready for a good harvest. They could use some extra hooves on the ready to help them get through it faster.

If you don't mind some harder work, there's a bounty board in town too. Usually there's bounties for stuff like gathering rare stuff, hunt specific monsters that have caused trouble, or recently, something related to that draconequus that settled down in the forest. It's more dangerous work, as it's usually about handling something in areas with monsters or beasts, but it pays better, since we don't really have any locals who does that sort of thing. The princess and her friends only handles the big issues, and we're more of a farming town. Some bounty hunters comes around every now and again. Same with adventurers, but it's infrequent, so there's usually stuff to do.

Beyond that... A few things maybe, but it kinda depends on what sort of work you'd be interested in? I'd say if you can handle yourselves, the bounties are good, and you can pick and chose which ones to go for, so there's some freedom, but well... I kinda think you two know your way around a brawl, but I don't want to make too many assumptions, y'know?"

Neon would be happy to help, but she had to know some more stuff to really get them there. She just mentioned the three things that came off of the top of her head, but there were probably other things too. Hard to say though, when she didn't know what sort of thing they wanted to do/were good at.

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

 

@Lawyer Slip

"She can be. This here's her friend. Lyriel told me that her name is Tayze, and that she knew Fah'lina before she started to follow me.

And I know she looks cute, but I wouldn't get too close. She doesn't look happy."

That were an understatement. Granted, Tayze were also not too thrilled, as she seemed uncomfortable, but Fah'lina just rushed closer, then jumped up, and used her large ears and webbed paws to seamlessly fly through the air, landing on the zegasus's head, and looked down upon the pegasi.. Though her gaze quickly went to the alicorn instead. He had magic, and wings. That must mean that it was him, yes?

She might start to seem a bit less cute now, as she opened her mouth. Not just a little, but impossibly so, showing a mouth that were capable of expanding enough to reveal a maw that could wrap itself fully around a regular pony's head. In the maw, were three rows of small sharp, pointy teeth, facing inwards. Not long enough to be a big threat to ponies, but this weren't meant for those either. As the gills you could see flare at the side of the gaping maw suggested, she were aquatic in nature too. A water predator, that primarily ate fish.

From the maw, came a snakelike hiss, as she warned the alicorn. At which point Ziggy butted in.

"Hey now, that's not nice! And it wasn't him making all the noise either. It were them."

She'd point towards the pegasi, whilst Fah'lina closed her mouth, returning to look mostly like a squirrel again. Though she seemed wanting to hiss at the pegasi too, before Ziggy rose something edible up. The little one would look torn for a second, then snatch it, and beginning to munch it down, looking like any squirrel would. Just y'know, bigger, and with webbed paws, and giant ears. And normal squirrels didn't hide a predatory side, but beyond that, the same.

"Sorry about that. It's the noise from the sonic rainbooms, I think. She hears really well, so that sorta thing can hurt, if they're in a spot where the sound really gets around. And don't worry that she'll eat you or something. She's a.... Well, I have said Mimic, and some books said Discordian Knight Squirrel. Anyway, they're fish hunters. Though they'll eat pretty much anything edible, if they can get their paws on it."

Tayze meanwhile, would wander closer, a fair deal more calm, and look around, sniffing the air for something edible, and scurry towards it. They could stuff well, considering the unnatural size of their maws when flexed out in full, but they tended to mostly do that to fight, scare off enemies, or when they hunted. Eating like a regular squirrel, tended to be more normal, when they got hold of normal food, nuts, grain, etc.

"Oh, and try not to use cutesy talk. They're smarter than they look, and Fah'lina bites, if she feels talked down to. Might not draw blood, but I've had my head in her mouth before. It reeks of fish."

[Lawyer Slip 2,528]

@Blitz Boom

*When Rich saw the maw he was taken aback, especially when it hissed angrily at him. He only wanted to make the peculiar one out of origami. For Ziggy or for it, he didn't know how smart they were. Then he noticed it about to hiss at Slipstream, he lost control of his temper. He then began to transform into his Golem-y form, and angrily stomped towards it.

"WHY YOU LITTLE-!"

"WOAH WOAH WOAH WOAH WOAH WOAH WOAH HEY HEY HEY HEY TIIIME OOOUUT!!!!"

*Slipstream put his weight against Rich, preventing him from advancing.*

"Simmer down big guy. This ain't who you want to be."

*Rich then calmed down, and transformed back to his normal self.*

"Sorry about that. I was acting irrationally and trying to protect you in a sense."

"You're good."

*Slipstream turned to face the two Discordian Knight Squirrels. He then did a small bow of respect to them.*

"I'm greatly sorry for the noise I caused, the noise Ms. Dash, caused, and if this big palooka spooked yas at all. It was entirely accidental and we mean you no disrespect. Also Ziggy, if they bite down on my head, eh, I'll be fine. Their breath can't possibly be as bad as his. (Or a changeling with an attitude.)"

"I probably wouldn't be fine. But, I also apologize for the noise I caused, I didn't mean to damage your hearing."

"Your ears are extremely beautiful as well. I'm impressed ho you can glide and probably swim with them. You have some cool animal friends Ziggy!"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2024-06-03 at 6:41 AM, Blitz Boom said:

@EQ_Theta

Omen would be the first to step forth, and provide a hoof for him to examine, if he so wished. She tended to follow on such requests rather easily, seeing it as an experience, and generally not thinking there to be a bad meaning behind simple things like it. It tended to get her roped into traps a fair few times, but she wasn't dead yet, so it were still technically all experiences, that she could in theory learn from. Even though her gullibility didn't seem to wane a lot.

The golems would still have their powers, provided that it had been sealed with them into the orb, but they were still fresh in their bodies. It were possible that some things took a little time, before they would function properly.

Rosa would offer his hoof after, though C. G. would dismiss it, saying that since she wore false hooves, it probably wasn't gonna work on her regardless. She wasn't gonna prove her point though, as she didn't think it was relevant to give them more information than that. Plus carrying the prop back with her were more annoying then continuing to wear it. She'd get it off and back into the collection soon enough.

"There are no such things here, for you to make use of for that. Those foci that we have, are sacred, and not to be touched. But we do have some crystals and steel make use of."

"If I may, I can offer one with more expedience, that should suffice better as a testing conduit.

Hammond dear? Would you be so kind as to go to my office at the store, and get me the ornament you find so fascinating to poke at?"

Hammond would nod, and jump into a small gate, that closed behind him, as he went to fetch something for his master.

"Please be patient for but a hooffull of seconds, and I should have something that would suit your request. It is not an optimal one, I must admit, but it should suffice, and it are one that I know Hammond can find most expediently."

She had just about finished her sentence, when the gate would open again, and prove it, as Hammond came through once more. though his angle were from the air, where a wooden box would fall out from it, and land with a notable thunk on the ground. It being around the size of him, minus the tail, and popping open as it landed. The latch were not grand, but the bottom stayed on the ground, so that were a plus.

It would reveal some sort of cloth sprinkled with moons and stars, over another box it would seem, yet on top of this were four wooden sticks, along with a head of a staff, that all seemed to be meant to screw together at points, yet interchangeably, which meant that you could decide on the size of the stick part of this. There would also be a crystal ball, a crystal flowerhead, and a crystal bird. All seemed to be meant to put on the top of the staff.

"I tend to invest in various upstarts, if they can convince me the venture is sound. This is a prototype I were given, from one wanting to open a costume shop, focused on providing all inclusive kits. I had one more interested in these things test it for me, but I do admire the ingenuity, and the quality, and my friend were impressed enough for me to feel confident in investing. I were asked to keep this, as a personal thank you, and kept it in my office, until I find where to put it.

Doesn't take a lot of space, and adjustable for foals to adults, in a practical box for storage between uses, and sent country wide. There's potential in that kind of business.

Ah, but I mean not to talk your ear off. I think that perhaps the staff, or parts of it, should be usable for your request, yes? I assure you, I can procure something more potent another time, but this should suffice for a test run as it were, yes?"

"Quality looks good for a prop shop. Mind giving me a name of the store when things goes into business, boss?"

"I will ensure you are invited to the grand opening."

"Hah, score."

C. G. used a lot of props in her line of work, and sometimes, she had to make it all from scratch. This prototype at a glance, showed some potential. Of course, it had to be modified for her use, but modified were usually faster than making it all herself. Might be the one who made this, were worth keeping in mind for her.

Rather than answer, the matron would turn towards him, her arm and talons stretched out. He should feel her, as she did something similar to what she had done the first time she had felt them out. She would do this towards each of them, for but a few seconds, then turn to him once more, her hand now firmly on the ground.

"No, everything seems in order now. All can speak and move, no stiffness out of the ordinary, and I can feel your souls and energies, settling into the vessels as they should. My job is complete, and I deem you safe and complete. Marble? You may relinquish the orb to their safekeep once more."

Marble would do so, moving in closer to the archivist, and reaching the orb down to him, palms up.

"She needed certainty, that you were stable. It would be tragic, were you to accidentally destroy this.

Be blessed, wayward souls. Enjoy life once more."

He'd smile as the orb were returned, to one of its rightful owners. It seemed his and his matron's job were all but complete by now. They had gained new vessels, and thus could once more partake in the life, that had been them denied. Blessed creatures indeed.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I would much prefer to follow you there, if I may. It sounds as if there is plenty of work already to do, and a filing system to implement for future ease of use. I will of course, ensure that things related to the topic of your home world are categorized together, with sub-folders depending on the specific topic. It will make things easier to file and sort through, if you need to re-read anything of note at a later date.

While we are moving to Canterlot however, mind if I ask a few question? Namely, it sounds as if your division is new, yes? Who was it that founded it? One of the princess, or one of the generals? And in such case, which one? There is a market difference in approaches one will have to take, depending on if you are under the branch of the Solar, Night, or Coastal Guard. Same goes for if you are a special division, under the princesses command.

There is also the option of you being given station by the combined forces of the three guard branches, which is an entirely different approach as well, though rare. Most logically, I would imagine you were either granted command of your own division by Princess Luna, or General Morning Dew, of the Solar Guards. I hear the princess is more open and accepting of needing special forces, for special issues, and General Dew are known for seeing the bigger picture, and preparing what might be needed in the future. General Screecher is harder to get a read on, so I am uncertain of her position on this, and General Tidal Wave would be unlikely to have direct command over you. Your position does not relate much to her guard's general specialty, though she might be a supportive figure, in a joint effort division.

I ask, since handling your paperwork will be one thing, but beyond that comes further questions. Continued funding, potential expanded barracks, certain things that could be directed to your station, that could be of help, ease of requests for assistance, even if temporarily, and so forth. It is best to lay the ground work, so everything is ready, and no nasty surprised suddenly rear up.

I would also ask for your opinion on reformed creatures, as potential workers. Equestria tends to try and rehabilitate those troubling individuals who can be helped, which helps keep recurrent crime low. But some are either well known enough, or oddities, that make it hard to integrate them into normal society. There might be potential allies for you to recruit, if you were open-minded enough to let me procure files on the more agreeable ones. What you do with them, is of course your decision in the end, but I would advise that the avenue not be neglected, sir."

He were her boss now, even if she didn't have an official badge or anything at the moment, so she would address him properly. He would come to find that she were not the sort who spoke in few words in most cases, as time passed, but at least her long talks tended to hold purpose, and actual good advise. You just needed to be able to endure the lecture-long speeches at times, where speed were not of the essence.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

Leviathan were sympathetic, and waited for her time to try and say some reassuring words. She even had some in mind, that she hoped would get through, but then, Ruby had to say those last words. Implying that she needed to die... Perhaps it were but metaphorical, or meant as in she had to change, and her old self needed to go, but Leviathan were honestly, on an edge right now, and the mere mention of Ruby and death, made her eyes narrow, and anger flare.

"Die?! No, not now, not ever! Do you hear me? I am not gonna let you... I..."

She had to take a deep breath, and close her eyes, her emotions tearing at her, after she heard her own hard tone, and the anger flowing into her voice. She had to control this. She wasn't gonna devolve this into a shouting match. Not not.

So she would speak again, though her words were strained, and her tone not angry, but you could tell that she were trying to keep herself calm, and not being completely convincing, even if she sounded less confrontational.

"...Please, don't say that last, horrid thing right now, Ruby. My head is not in the right state of mind to think about if you mean that literally or not, so I'm having a very, Very hard time not starting to go into a rant about what I will do, if you even try and make it literal. Because I will not let you die. I care about you too much. From your best traits, to your worst flaws, and I'll be damned, if I will let anyone take you away from me. Yourself included."

She tried to keep her hands steady and calm, finding some minor strength, in Charir's presence. He was a soothing figure, in times like this. Someone whom she could care for, and find relief, in knowing he were safe. Might well have ended in her shouting if he wasn't here, if she were to be honest. Might still end that way, if things turned for the worse.

"I can't stop caring about both of you. I thought you knew by now, that you both mean too much for me to do that. More than I think I have cared for anyone, since I buried my mother...

So no, I won't stop worrying about you. But I-"

Further did she not go, before the temple itself, seemed to let out a haunting moan, as the ground rumbled briefly where they stood. Something that Leviathan, in this moment reacted to as one might expect- She turned to the tower, hand raised, and shot a bolt of lightning out that rammed straight into the wall near the top, spreading from the impact.

"Shut. Up!"

Could she not have a singular, bloody moment, without something interrupting her! Did she need to turn this entire structure into slag to make it happen? Because she freaking would!

She'd seethe, growling at brick and mortar, as she directed her anger towards the now silent temple. Yet her arm trembled, betraying the fear she had felt, when she heard a noise. A potential sign of the things in there coming out here, to steal away those she cared about, and hurt them again. A thing she had gotten too face to face with already, and it terrified her.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Hmm..."

Neon would tap her chin a bit, thinking this over. The two had their priorities straight, but they were right, that to do something, they needed tools, and without money, it wasn't gonna be the easiest.

"I know Blitz took her tools with her, so scavenging those probably won't work...

There is one in the forest that miiight be able to help. I'm not completely sure, since I didn't talk to her myself, but we had a dragon in the hospital recently, for a biopsy. It's pretty rare somepony requests that, and a dragon? Unheard of, so the talk got around the hospital.

Anyway, Nurse Goodheart, said that she also had a damaged arm, and when she were talking about it, she mentioned she could do magic with iron and rocks. Maybe if we asked her, she could make you some tools, long as you had the metal to work with?

Although there's also scavenging. The forest is big, and sometimes, valuable things gets lost. Maybe if you found something, you could sell that, and then buy some tools from the blacksmith? Hay, maybe that dryad that settled down here recently, would know where some good stuff were? They can talk to animals and trees and stuff. She might know.

...Y'know, I'm starting to think I've lived so long in Ponyville, that I've gotten jaded over just how weird things have gotten recently."

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

 

@Evil Pink One

Certainly were a... Lively fellow this one, wasn't he? Seemed to shift between acting out in strange ways, and being seemingly just a regular pony. Though she supposed, oddities met, and Ponyville were a pot of weirdness, that just expanded by the day. He seemed harmless, and she had been around Pinkie Pie enough that this didn't openly faze her. Pinkie tended to cause you to question what were sane and extravagant at times.

"Your best bet would be to go to Fluttershy's cabin, yes. I'd suggest you treat her and any animal there nicely, because any scorn from her, will reflect poorly on hos Discord views you. And keep in mind she is rather timid, so be calm, and try to talk casually to her.

As it were, I'd suggest you bring Shark too. I think she might find her to be a disarming presence, long as she's calm. And it might let Discord know what kind of other draconequui he is dealing with. I'm sure there's some sort of signature, or style to their chaos, that would give him a hint."

She wasn't gonna say that Shark were good to bring along, because she were still somewhat of an animal. It weren't nice. At the same time though, she were... Well, a shark, and still reacted on many of her primal instincts. Fluttershy tended to do well with creatures like that.

"If there were nothing else, I should get to the next in line, and you should make use of the time, and go there today, while you have some time off before classes. Best to make use of your time efficiently, yes?"

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

 

@Lawyer Slip

Ziggy went over, and pulled both combatants into a side hug, with a hoof around each of them, whilst she beamed down at them.

"See? I knew you'd be bestest of rivals! Now you can push each other to be better, because you wanna win next time, and all that, yeah? And it was Real close too, Dashie. You might've won, if you hadn't gotten knocked slightly off course at the end. So no feeling bad, okay? You gave him a real run for his bits.

It's weird you still have energy though, Slipstream. You should've been panting at the least. Heh, probably just the adrenaline holding you up right now. We'll see when you calm down. It was a real good performance though, and a good win. I'm so proud of you two."

She'd squeeze them a bit more, then noticed something in the grass. A movement of two creatures headed their way, which would be revealed shortly after, as even though they were still some distance away, the grass had been pressed a little flat, after the booms. A solid rain would sort that out, but for now, you could really see  a fair bit of the ground level.

"Oh! Fah'lina! I'm over here!"

She'd rise the hoof she had around Slipstream, and waved at the creatures.

They both looked like squirrels, kind of. They were a little bigger, and their ears appeared to be very long, and attached to their feet, though their length were beyond that. They stayed somewhat stiff over the ground, following their back when running though, and were flexible enough so that they weren't in the way. They also had webbed hands and feet, indicating that they were aquatic in nature, if you looked closely. Strange squirrels indeed.

One of them seemed to have the general, typical red and white squirrel colors, whilst the other were more dark red and grey fur on the belly, and lower side of the head. It also had a large, red bow on its fluffy tail, and what seemed like two sowing needled, crossed through the fur of the tail, and the bow. Likely to keep them stuck when it were running.

They'd both stop before they got too close to the unknown ponies there, seemingly not wanting to get too up and personal just yet. Rather observing them, and for the former of the creatures especially, looking towards them with annoyance. Considering the big ears, one could venture a guess what the annoyance came from.

"Wise input as always headmistress."he bows down to her and began to leave.

" I shall take my leave and inform the next in line."

He opens the door and informed the pony next in line, that is if there is someone there still waiting for their turn.

 He would ponder the headmistress suggestion,and would leave him worried.

" No point in this unease. I believe in the headmistress wisdom. But for now..." Light Would search for Shark. He knows she's with the kits and she likes to play in open wide areas preferably near water. perhaps where she sleeps at near his dorm.

[Sekel 692]

@PerlsteinProps & @Blitz Boom

TWILIGHT SPARKLE

"Be glad you haven't. They sprout out vines and tentacles that ensnare whatever comes their way," Twilight told Magnolia with a slight shudder of remembrance. She hadn't liked Plunderseeds then and she didn't like them now. As for the food, she would have some of the stew and bread, which tasted absolutely delectable, and ended up savouring her bowl, even with garlic added. "Oh my, the garlic adds an amazing touch to the dish, this is amazing!"

@Blitz Boom

DAZZLE GLEAM & DAWN STREAK

Dazzle couldn't tear her eyes away from the torn scale. Her breathing had slowed as she inspected it and then carefully took it with her own hoof. "This ... is ... definitely dad's," Dazzle whispered, unable to believe it. There had been something left in the home after all! This might mean her parents didn't truly abandon her out of spite but out of necessity and simply vanished somewhere. "Ohmigosh they didn't actually leave because I took too long answering! This is amazing! Troublesome about the way it was torn ... why would it be torn off? Were they fleeing? Being attacked? Ugh, new questions need answering~!"

"I'm sure we'll find those answers somewhere. Maybe more things are buried under the dust," Dawn suggested, gesturing to the mounds of dust around them.

@Blitz Boom

AURORA LIGHTS

"You're so joyful," Aurora said in amazement, her nervousness fled the minute she was basked with the elder Queen's joy. "How are you doing this? Is it just joy you feed off of?" she questioned but then the hesitancy came back. She spotted the outstretched hoof. She nodded to herself and licked her lips before reaching out to shake it. "I-I uh ... heh. I'm just ... not used to talking to o-o-other changelings in general, much less q-Queens, erm, Your Majesty."

@Blitz Boom

KARMIC FATE & ATZY

"Surely nothing would attack us out here," Atzy the gemling buzzed curiously. She had flown up to be with Blitz and had settled alongside the filly on Enzo's back with Karmic. "We're with a giant sphynx creature so nothing will want to attack something most definitely larger than them, right?"

"You know you're tempting fate with that, right?" Karmic hissed at Atzy. She was getting seriously annoyed by the constant questioning of her sister's and didn't want her visions to be activ- oh dear. There they go. Her eyes glowed white and she appeared to enter a dream like state. Visions of possibly futures collided within her mind and showed an array of changelings attacking them to other sphynx's to even other ponies protesting the very existence of a sphynx. Then there was a vision of a swashbuckling adventure trying to hack at their beloved Enzo but one she tried to stick with. This one meant they would pass through the forest, unharmed, and able to be without worry for the rest of their outing.

"Karmic? Yo? you good?" Atzy said nervously and waved her hoof in front of her sister's face and was soon showing early signs of panic. "She's ... not responding? She's in a trance? What's going on?"

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-06-13 at 7:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It can be hard, adapting to a new world. Master Discord gave me form, and took me to a world of chaos. When he was gone, everything was different, and wrong. I did not know how things worked, and no one wanted to talk to me. So I went home, and waited for him to come back, and everything to be normal again. A thousand years, until Mother told me I could not wait longer.

I tried to learn things myself, but I do not understand most things here. His world, is not the same as theirs.

Sen, Lin and Rosa, would listen, and have taught me things. Maybe if you have some who wants to listen, it will help you too?"

“Then it would appear that we are more alike, Omen, though this world has its own kind of chaos. The order that I grew up in was different, so much so that this modern age and its complexities would be more difficult to navigate. It is good that you have found friends who helped you when you were in need; I hope I will find kind souls like them. It helps to find commonalities with others, and in time, this chaos of this modern age will be a new normal.”

Vates sat and pondered on Omen’s words, intrigued at the wisdom behind them. Perhaps in her experience, there was a truth that she lived through. It can be passed on to herself and the other golems. Maybe she will visit the remnants of her old home, if some of it remained, hoping to let that part of her old life go before integrating with the creatures and civilization that she is now a part of. 

Then again, some things about the old world didn’t seem to go away, not entirely at least. Rosa’s descriptions of an old practice once thought outlawed jogged her memory of a very old method that was closely attributed to the barbarism of her day. 

“Blood magic? Or perhaps you speak of driromancy? It was a practice that involved blood conducted through the examination of blood droplets. I had hoped it would be forgotten, but it may not be so. I may investigate the matter and learn about how it evolved if its current iteration has changed from how it was previously.” 

On 2024-06-13 at 7:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"You would enjoy a trip to the Canterlot Public Library then, I'm sure. There's a marvelous wealth of information there, that should help you to catch up to the current day. And you wouldn't need to worry of entrance. Long as you do not cause trouble there, or bring harm the books, the library is free for all to use, regardless of race. Can you read ponish though? Or the common tongue, as it is also called in other placed. You speak it well at the least, so if you can read it well too, it should prove a resourceful place for you and yours."

As for Magus, he was intrigued by Scarcity’s suggestion. He had heard of the Canterlot library’s wealth of knowledge, a place where he and his fellow golems could look for information on the current world. It would surely be the best place to get started. What they managed to store in the orb could also find another home within this place. All that would require access, but the wealth of knowledge within the orb may be more than enough to facilitate an exchange. 

“I, and my fellows, are familiar with ponish. The orb that held us was passed down and had changed hands so long that we passively learned the language. Your suggestion is much appreciated, and we will take advantage of the benefits of Canterlot’s library.” 

Meanwhile, the other golems stood closer to Scarcity as they learned about Hammond and the creatures that are like him. It was an intriguing time, and Scarcity’s efforts to protect them. Knowing a thing or two about the extinction of a living race has made them a lot more keen and appreciative of the mare’s efforts. If time permits, they may spend some time studying them, as they weren’t known long, long ago. 

"Conservation wasn't an undertaking performed in past civilizations, as expending resources for other creatures was not a consideration. Nevertheless, it is commendable that you are looking out for the mimics. It seems there is a lot more to this age that my fellows and I would need to learn about." 

They, however, wouldn’t dwell too much on knowledge about Omen and her siblings, though not because of disinterest. After all, they already visited Mother’s realm once before to administer Discord’s chaos magic to Omen, and a subsequent visit simply felt normal in a sense. It certainly felt like a lifetime ago when they were with Sen and Lin. For now, they’d walk into the dark realm once more, recalling bits of in from past experience. 

On 2024-06-13 at 7:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Our siblings find you interesting."

Hammond would open a gate soon after, leading them to what seemed a softly lit hallway. The siblings did not stop coming for this reason, though they did not speak in ponish currently. One would form a gooey mass and slither around Magus's right front leg, feeling his leg with a mass that would be reminiscent of a cooled tube of airy oil, and looked up at him with a pair of snake-like, slit eyes.

"Magic one?"

It wouldn't try and hold him, if they moved on. The siblings were always curious, and hoping for masters. Omen having given several of them masters in recent times, were starting to be seen as a sign too by some of the less air-headed, that the ones she were with, that they had not seen, might be potential new masters. 

One little formless mass approached Magus, apparently having taken a curiosity in him. It was an odd feeling to be the center of attention. Recalling Scarcity’s and Mother’s words, this instance may be one where the formless ones were seeking a master. The golem stopped and looked at the creature eyeing him for a moment before kneeling and reaching one hoof forward. 

“Hello, little one. I believe you are seeking a master, yes?” The golem started, maintaining an air and tone of tenderness, something rather uncharacteristic of him. “Please do not take this the wrong way, but I must apologize. I do not believe that I could be the master who can do right by you, not when I am still figuring myself and the world. You deserve a better master than I, but I do hope we can meet again.” 

Magus gently reached out to the little creature with his hoof before being approached by Videntor, who smiled. It seemed like someone else shared his disposition toward becoming a caretaker. He also knelt before the formless creature with an air of reassurance in his demeanor. “Well said. Sometimes, things will not happen the way we want, but I assure you, something better will come in good time.” 

After some time traversing the dark realm, the siblings and the golems sound themselves in a comfy home, presumably Scarcity’s. It wasn’t something they expected for a meeting place, but it lightened the mood. The anticipation grew within the golems, wondering how their lives could change or proceed now that they could be talking business with Scarcity. 

“This is a comfortable-looking home, nothing like the days of old when comfort took a step back to make way for practicality. Now it appeared that there was room to make that kind of consideration when building a home. How times have changed indeed. I take it that this is yours, or maybe it is one of many?”

It seemed like this may be the place where everyone would be talking terms. Their agreement with Scarcity could put some of the individual golems’ personal goals and wishes on hold for a while, at least until their affairs can be sorted. It will be interesting to see what will become of them once they’ve set their plans with who may very well be their future employer.

Edited June 16 by EQ_Theta
Corrected some lines

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-06-15 at 1:03 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“Then it would appear that we are more alike, Omen, though this world has its own kind of chaos. The order that I grew up in was different, so much so that this modern age and its complexities would be more difficult to navigate. It is good that you have found friends who helped you when you were in need; I hope I will find kind souls like them. It helps to find commonalities with others, and in time, this chaos of this modern age will be a new normal.”

Vates sat and pondered on Omen’s words, intrigued at the wisdom behind them. Perhaps in her experience, there was a truth that she lived through. It can be passed on to herself and the other golems. Maybe she will visit the remnants of her old home, if some of it remained, hoping to let that part of her old life go before integrating with the creatures and civilization that she is now a part of. 

Then again, some things about the old world didn’t seem to go away, not entirely at least. Rosa’s descriptions of an old practice once thought outlawed jogged her memory of a very old method that was closely attributed to the barbarism of her day. 

“Blood magic? Or perhaps you speak of driromancy? It was a practice that involved blood conducted through the examination of blood droplets. I had hoped it would be forgotten, but it may not be so. I may investigate the matter and learn about how it evolved if its current iteration has changed from how it was previously.” 

"I hope you do not have to wait a thousand years for it to start making sense to you. I am told that was a very long time."

Time didn't affect her, so it hadn't been unusual for entire centuries to pass, without her taking notice of it in Mother's ream, or years, even decades when she were in Equestria. These days things seemed to happen faster, but that was maybe more down to her being given a lot more information to process, and getting help to process it faster, so it could appear as if things progressed very quickly to her. It mattered little, as she were just finding it good that things were moving along like this.

As for hope itself... It were an idea that she could understand, to a certain extend. Saying you hoped good things would happen, hope that there were answers, or a sighting for her master back in the day, hope her friends were okay- She could understand the logistical side, and used that. But the feeling of hope itself, were not present. Yet she wanted for good things for others, and herself, and thus used the word as it intended. At least she assumed it were that, most of the time.

"I... *sigh* Yes, it's Driromancy, and it's not outlawed per se, but it is heavily frowned upon in most societies. Especially because of the historical stigma, where one are not satisfied with mere droplets, falling freshly from an appendage. Some crave a stream, and a stream of flesh blood, comes at an unacceptable cost of life. Though there are three variations of the practice in general, using fresh droplets, a bowl of freely given blood, and dead man's blood, in a properly prepared vesse- I can hear you smirk, C. G..."

"Oh don't mind me. Do go on with your lecture, professor."

"*grumble* I can give some pointers towards books on the subject later, Vates."

She were not being malicious, but she did know what buttons to press to make him feel embarrassed, and the worst part were that it were still working. He could feel the flustering go to his cheeks, whilst he begrudgingly acknowledged that she were right. He could have gotten into a lecture there, and spend the next five minutes or more on it easily. But perhaps their efforts were best spent doing more things, he supposed.

On 2024-06-15 at 1:03 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“I, and my fellows, are familiar with ponish. The orb that held us was passed down and had changed hands so long that we passively learned the language. Your suggestion is much appreciated, and we will take advantage of the benefits of Canterlot’s library.” 

Meanwhile, the other golems stood closer to Scarcity as they learned about Hammond and the creatures that are like him. It was an intriguing time, and Scarcity’s efforts to protect them. Knowing a thing or two about the extinction of a living race has made them a lot more keen and appreciative of the mare’s efforts. If time permits, they may spend some time studying them, as they weren’t known long, long ago. 

"Conservation wasn't an undertaking performed in past civilizations, as expending resources for other creatures was not a consideration. Nevertheless, it is commendable that you are looking out for the mimics. It seems there is a lot more to this age that my fellows and I would need to learn about." 

"Conservation is important dear. The world can be such a fragile place at times, and the creatures that live within it along with us, can sometimes be affected too harshly by our presence. Countless species over the ages, have been lost to time because of carelessness, and callous profiteering. The Evergrown for instance, can richly attest to that themselves, if ever you find yourself speaking with one. For my stance, I believe in those who does have a chance, be granted one. That too, goes for the animals, that yet stand to be saved.

Besides, I have more means, than I could ever hope to use. Why not use some of my wealth, to bring some good back? It seems only fair, and that besides, I am not a monster. I do have good intentions at heart, even if it does not always seem so to all."

There were also some levels of tax breaks, good PR, and favors one could gain from ensuring there were money donated to the right causes, but those were just bonuses. She yet gladly offered expertise and wealth to those she gained nothing back from, because she believed in the cause, and wanted to leave things as best as were possible. It made her feel good about herself, and kept those pesky creatures that maintained balance at bay. Now those were troubling, and she wanted nothing to do with them, had she the option to avoid them. Yet she had to be cautious of them, lest she began to swing the bowl of karma too far in one direction, and they would work to make her pay for that. Long as she remained a necessary evil, and a generous supporter of many good caused alike though, they showed little interest in her, if any.

On 2024-06-15 at 1:03 AM, EQ_Theta said:

One little formless mass approached Magus, apparently having taken a curiosity in him. It was an odd feeling to be the center of attention. Recalling Scarcity’s and Mother’s words, this instance may be one where the formless ones were seeking a master. The golem stopped and looked at the creature eyeing him for a moment before kneeling and reaching one hoof forward. 

“Hello, little one. I believe you are seeking a master, yes?” The golem started, maintaining an air and tone of tenderness, something rather uncharacteristic of him. “Please do not take this the wrong way, but I must apologize. I do not believe that I could be the master who can do right by you, not when I am still figuring myself and the world. You deserve a better master than I, but I do hope we can meet again.” 

Magus gently reached out to the little creature with his hoof before being approached by Videntor, who smiled. It seemed like someone else shared his disposition toward becoming a caretaker. He also knelt before the formless creature with an air of reassurance in his demeanor. “Well said. Sometimes, things will not happen the way we want, but I assure you, something better will come in good time.” 

The formless one would slither up his arm, separating from the other masses around, to stand on his arm, and looked at him curiously, as he spoke to it. And by the looks in its eyes, he might grasp that it wasn't sure what he were talking about. It heard the word master, and some of the other ones it understood, but the unformed one were very simple creatures. Long words and sentences, tended to confuse them, more often than not, as they did not have the capacity to grow enough to surpass that in here.

So Omen would step in, and speak to it, their native tongue being easier to understand for them, though none else. They did not have the extra mouths they'd need to make those sounds, nor an indication for what the various ones meant. But after a few moments, it would begin to slither off him, though it took the long run, to slither across his neck, in a somewhat affectionate way, before more or less dripping down on the floor, and rejoining the rest of those who were looking on. They too had heard Omen, so they wouldn't speak, beyond their native tongue, but they were still curious of these newcomers.

"Not master. Hi."

It would rise from the rest, and somewhat nod towards him.

"Siblings are always hoping for a master We want to go and see other worlds. To grow and learn, more than anything else. I told them that you were not ready. But if you do one day, they will be ready.

Normal beings have everything to offer us, but we have nothing, except ourselves. And we give that without question, to anyone who would want to be our master. I were no different, when Discord scooped me up, and picked me."

A voice slithered on unseen winds, smoothly passing them by for but a brief moment.

"Curious children, agrees to so many things. Blame them not for their eagerness, and walk in peace."

A humming sound would come after, and the shapes would retract, all headed in the same direction. Though the one that had made contact with magus, lingered for a moment, before joining the others.

"Do not be alarmed at the voice. That is merely their mother. I believe her speaking with you, shows an approval of your self insight."

On 2024-06-15 at 1:03 AM, EQ_Theta said:

“This is a comfortable-looking home, nothing like the days of old when comfort took a step back to make way for practicality. Now it appeared that there was room to make that kind of consideration when building a home. How times have changed indeed. I take it that this is yours, or maybe it is one of many?”

"One of several, and not my main domicile, no. Take it not as a slight against you, I simply need certain things for our arrangement, that is preferable to have somewhere with more privacy.

This building is well fortified, and the part we stand in now, are not so plainly accessible. I find it well suitable for holding certain things.

For a start, the power supply as it were, that I mentioned when we first made arrangements. Brick? If you would be so kind?"

The pegasus grunted, and went over to carefully remove the cloth, which would reveal a pedestal, on which sat a crystal statue. It were beautiful, depicting what seemed to be a lamia with her tail curled under herself, as she sat praying, with closed eyes. Unseen light reflected randomly upon its smooth surface, making for quite the pretty sight. Even more so, when the glass dome it resided in were removed, which seemed to have held back the aura of it somewhat. It nearly pulsated with power, radiating calmly through the air.

Suddenly, a ball of glittering, rainbow-colored energy would rummage around the statue, going around the construction, which seemed to move ever so slightly, as energy were put into the various limbs, but it were not at any risk at waking up, or anything of the sort.

"Breathtaking, is it not? A one of a kind statue, depicting the holiest of Lamia, Che'reshni. A venerated figure in their culture.

Yet as it have been showered with such worship, it is also one of a few objects, which can safely contain primordial magic. I assure you I didn't steal it though. It have been stolen and changed hooves so long ago, it is impossible for even me to say who took it first, yet in time, I got it, and it proved perfect for containing the raw magic, that Equestria are known to at times spew out.

A fascinating phenomena really. The same magic used to make alicorns, yet unfiltered, as the princesses does it, to safely ascend one of theirs. The wild energies are far too raw when it randomly spouts ever so rarely out there though, and any unfortunate soul who are affected... Precious few survive the influx, but those who does, will ascend to alicorn status. Few from there does so with their sanity intact though. The unfiltered energies are far too potent for a regular mind to handle.

It took me four years, to be able to catch this in the statue, because these are never predictable. And since then, I have sought a way to make use of it, but finding little in the way of success.

And then, you and I crossed paths."

She'd look at the assembled golems, with a certain degree of excitement present in her eyes.

"I fully intend to have this statue reunited with its rightful owners, I will say. When it has fulfilled its purpose, I give my word that it will be returned, no strings attached. Yet I have waited for some such as you, to first help me harness what is within it, for the sake of unnatural longevity.

Raw, primordial magic. A sliver of what gods are made from... Yes, this should suffice, hmm? By all means, examine it to make certain."

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

 

@Sekel @PerlsteinProps

"My friend's gonna be thrilled to hear that the princess herself, likes her menu. And you're right, a bit of garlic adds some solid flavor, if you don't burn it. Some nasty stuff if you do that."

"Excuse me, Mister Chow? C-Could I get another sandwich please? With blue cheese and peppers added, if you h-have it?"

"You got it."

He'd be off, getting another sandwich for her, whilst the others ate. The princess having started, Last would finally go and begin eating herself. She refused to show much emotion, but the sudden raised eyebrow in surprise, and subsequent continuation of eating, whilst a shiver seemed to go down her spine... She liked this indeed, and it were about time too. She could last longer without food, but her body did crave sustenance, that much she couldn't deny.

So were the case for Drone, who had finished the first part of her rack of ribs, and set down the bone on the plate, cleaned fully of every pit of muscle and tissue.

He'd be back soon after, setting down the sandwich, which Zeehva would chomp at quickly. Half of it being down before he even got a word in.

"Solid appetite, eh? That's good. Shows you're gonna be nice and healthy.

Mind me asking though, I hear you folks got here along with Soul, yeah?"

"*gulp* Yes."

"Swell. So you're here, he's back... Is it his?"

Zeehva coughed, as she felt a bit of onion tickle her throat, as it were gulped down before it were chewed up proper.

"W-What?"

"Y'know, yer foal."

"N-No! I... No. N-Not him."

She were flustered, blushing up like a tomato as he kept a cheeky smile going towards her.

"Alright then. Just seemed like it'd fit with his return. Sorry if it was a bit too personal."

They'd have perhaps a few minutes to sort though some responses, before the door would open, and someone would come in. That being Stitch Wraith, who'd look around at the assembled ponies, and other such oddities.

"Oh good, you're all here. So uh... Long version or short version?"

"Short."

"Barring Zheeva, all living visitors need to get out of town immediately"

"Wha- Why are they being kicked out? W-Why not me?"

"Cause Macabre agreed that it's not safe for you to be rushed off, in your condition. And everypony's needing to go, because we're getting into a family situation. Macabre is... She is about to announce her intended successor, and since I know who it is too, I also know it's gonna cause some friction, and we'd rather not have the princess try and intervene. This here's family business, and we'd prefer keeping it that way.

Though truthfully, you're mostly getting booted for now, because that weird mare with the flaming ears. She barged into the mansion, and went right up to where we keep the memoirs of our oldest known ancestor, and things got a little... Disturbingly revelatory after that, and that's news that'll make the first seem like nothing. You're gonna have to ask somepony later how it went, and you might get why we're wanting to keep this internal, but seriously, you have to go. Now."

"I know the rules, I'm a caretaker, so I don't count as a visitor, and I'm fine, long as I stay in doors. You best get going though folks. And don't worry, I'll keep an eye on yer friend here. Make sure she's kept fed and healthy."

"I'll s-stay and keep an eye on her too."

"I'll welcome it. But you folks best get going, before she sends some guards to toss you out. I'll come around eventually, with an update and some owl fodder, yeah?

Don't forget to write Grim's food a glowing review, and a personal greetings 'til then, princess. She'd treasure that enough to let you skip the bill."

He'd give them a cheeky grin, and a wave. Zeehva would be fine here, but they had to go and get a move on. It sounded like things were gonna be rather *family only* in Sanctuary for a little while.

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

 

@Sekel

"I would agree. I find the little we have found to be somewhat curious, yet dreadfully lacking in concrete information. We best see if aught else are hiding beneath these mounds, hm?"

"I'll help too. Maybe you start left, and I begin right?"

"Sounds like as good as plan as any, sister dearest. Let us see what might lie in wait for us to find, hm?"

They'd both go and begin to blow dust away, though Scarcity were much faster, her technique being more refined and practiced than what Stare did. So if she found naught on her side, she would soon come and help over there, as they sought more answers than the little scale they had thus far.

Honestly, Scarcity wanted to bring a full forensic team out here to get everything down to the last speck of dirt, but it were not the time yet. Perhaps it would come later though, since truthfully, the vagueness of everything were nagging at her somewhat. She so hated being without knowledge of something she were involved in, and this were beginning to linger too much in the unknown for her taste. If she were not careful, she might even get personally invested, and if that happened, she would employ stronger measures.

Ah, but it were not so bad. It had been an age, since her sister and her, had a good, bonding experience to enjoy. For too long, had they needed to spend most of their time apart, and things such as this were a nice experience for them to share. Even if she well knew that it were odd to Stare, to hear Scarcity so openly speak of their familial ties, after all this time of being informed that it needed to be kept on the low.

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

 

@Sekel

"Awh, sounds like somepony's a bit nervous. Just call me Cheshire, and let me guess, you're a new queen? It can be hard starting off on your own, but be at ease. You will do fine, soon as you figure out the basics.

And you're almost right. My hive's primary emotion is joy, though we harvest a little of this, and a little of that too, making use of harvest vats around town and in the theater to ensure we have a stash of extra jelly, just in case we get others of our kin in, who is in desperate need.

You will come to hear many badmouth us as you grow, and speak with others, but know that at our core, we're here to help our fellow changeling, and educate the public, in the hopes that they will come to understand that we aren't some monsters hiding in the woods. We're just creatures like them, trying to make it in this big, scary world we're sharing. Not everypony likes that, or respect us, as our hive is very small. But if ever your hive's in need, you'll find no better allies than Hive Cheshire. Long as it isn't for fighting."

She'd speak calmly and gently to Aurora, feeling her nervousness, and wanting to ease her mind somewhat. It appeared she hadn't the easiest of times, and she didn't want to worsen things for her.

"And did I hear right? Happy Hour, was it? My dear boy have spoken of you before."

Her voice would come from behind Happy Hour, who nearly jumped from the sudden surprise, and turning around, he'd see another of Cheshire stand there, chuckling at him.

"Oh jeez! I... Alright, you startled me. I'll admit it."

"You'd be surprised how few care enough about me, to remember my particular specialty. Hmhm. But we will return to you, and your company soon enough. Most fascinating visitors I'm getting today, yep."

This Cheshire would grin, after having mentioned that she did see Onache, standing back in silence so far, then pop like a bubble, leaving simply the one that were shaking hoof with Aurora.

"All of us queens have our specialty. The thing we excel at, as it were. I've ever been a showmare, and are quite skilled at illusions and trickery. You'll find yours too someday, if you haven't yet.

But do tell, what brings you to our humble home? Come to catch a show perhaps?"

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

 

@Sekel

"What kind of trance?"

Enzo stopped up, upon hearing these words. it were hard not too, considering how close they were to his ears, which weren't exactly shabby in the first place.

"Introspective perhaps?"

"Could be prophetic. Those who gaze at the future, can be lost to the present."

"I wonder what kind of future she's seeing... Do you think there's cake?"

"Ain't impossible. But right now, I'm more worried about her. Try seeing if you can jolt her to it, would ya?"

"Okay!"

Blitz would jump over to grab hold of Karmic, and shake her leg, but Enzo got to her first, poking her with the tip of his index claw. If that didn't rouse her, he'd be lifting her between two claws, and dangling her in front of his face, whilst Blitz ran in circles on the soft fur of his head, waiting to hear more.

If she got to where she dangled before him, he'd deign to speak.

"Can you hear us, little one?"

He'd watch her carefully, looking for signs of anything that seemed out of the ordinary. It may be she were having a vision, and thus were trapped in it. Or she were having a stroke of some sort, in which case they needed to find a doctor, post haste. But it were hard to evaluate, lest he saw her for himself. And even then, he were no doctor. He had but instinct, and his memories of classes taken during his kittenhood, showing the signs that one of theirs were having a vision. They were required to inform any of their teachers or elders, if someone showed signs of visions, as they then had to take special classes to handle them, and become as competent and useful as they could with those abilities. There were value in knowing the future after all.

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

 

@Lawyer Slip

When he transformed and stomped towards her, Fah'lina would jump back a step, but wouldn't step down, opening her maw to hiss louder. But just as Slipstream went to calm down Rich, so too would the mimic have Ziggy trying to calm her down. Which she were doing anyway, but not it would also involve a bit of scolding.

"Hey, I do not want to see that behavior. And that goes for both of you."

She'd point towards Fah'lina, and Rich, thinking them both acting out of line here. Sure she were surprised and intrigued by his form change, but these two had just met, and were acting like two angry cats. This were no way to behave, and she wasn't gonna take it. Even if Fah'lina might try and stuff her head in her mouth again as punishment. She could do it all she wanted, it still didn't change that this were unacceptable.

She'd observe as things simmered down, and Fah'lina in kind, would also calm, and wander slightly forward on Ziggy, keeping narrowed eyes, and her senses sharp, as she observed Rich a little more, chittering a slight amount, and tilting her head from side to side curiously.

The compliments helped, and she'd flare her ears a bit, but she wouldn't be alone for much longer, as Tayze would also climb her, and hang from her throat, looking towards Rich more in eye height. Ziggy were good real-estate for them, as she allowed a vantage point towards many creatures, with how tall she were. Plus she didn't mind, and the feint smell of peppermint, were nice and soothing.

This one would wriggle her ears too, and life a paw, waving at Rich, whilst chittering a bit. Fah'lina would then chitter towards her, and then the two would seemingly go into a small argument, as they chittered back and forth, using their front paws to make gestures to assist at times. They'd use their strong tails and back legs to keep a solid hold of Ziggy.

"I'm hoping Tayze will be a good influence on her. Fah'lina gets cranky easily, and is pretty proud, so things doesn't go her way, and she starts doing mischief, or arguing.

And you're right, she can swim with those ears. Glide and fly too. They're pretty strange creatures, but very graceful, and adorable. I dunno about Tayze, but Fah'lina usually uses her cuteness to get snacks, but from what I've read, they're apparently scavenging, resourceful predators. If they think they can use a thing, and can get away with taking it, they will. Though she started off just randomly throwing acorns at me in the forest at first. I think she was bored, and decided I was fun to poke at.

Anyway, you both seem to be calm. Well, you're not arguing with one another at least, hehe. Mind me asking what you just did there before? It looked like you were changing forms. So you've been tricking me, and you're actually a changeling? Those are the only ones I know that can... No wait, there's Kirin too, sort of. That might count? Anyway, I haven't seen a pony do this sorta thing before. Unless you're cursed maybe? Awh, that'd be a shame."

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

 

@Evil Pink One

He would indeed find them outside, in the lake where Shark decided to sleep. She were swimming around at high speed, chasing what seemed like glittering fish, chomping down on them, which made them flicker out of existence with a small poof. The twins were the ones making those fish, jumping around on the edge of the lake, and swishing their tails, conjuring different kinds of illusory fish for her to chase, that seemed to be tossed from their tails, as if leaving a large paint brush. Something they did not need to do, but kitsune liked to add some flair to their spellwork, if they had the chance. In other cases, it also added power, but not right now. They were just having fun, and they had about three dozen locals/students standing nearby, looking over, with more slowly adding to the spectators, as they wondered what were happening.

It was a nice little spot of merriment, that seemed to add some fun and joy into things again, which due to things that happened recently, were a sight for sore eyes for several, and some of the students were beginning to cheer on. Some for the twins, hoping they made something that outsmarted Shark, and others for Shark herself, who seemed to be on a solid hunting spree. Though she would also have some fun and suddenly burst out of the lake, using simply her tail for propulsion, get a few meters up into the air, and then splash down into it again, which send a small water wave at a few of the onlookers who stood the closest to the edge of the lake. She seemed to get a huge kick out of it, and the now wet ones, seemed to take it in good spirit too.

Granted, this did carry some vibes, of a magical version of a dolphin show, but Shark could stop any time she wished. She simply didn't, as she were having a lot of fun right now.

About when Light showed up, the twins would cross jump, tails meeting, and flicking one out they made together. A large moray eel, which would start to chase Shark. It made good way too, snapping after her with toothless jaws, and slithering uncharacteristically agile through the water, trying to get her. But after some time, she would manage to outsmart it, and then go in straight for the jugular, defeating this foe too.

Sure, it showed off her more predatory side, but she were having a lot of fun with it, and there seemed to be no harm in doing so. Wasn't like she were chasing after others. The few who had jumped into the lake, she made sure not to hit. They were not food after all. They were friends.

Edited June 19 by Blitz Boom

[Catpone Cerberus 23,591]

@Blitz Boom
"When it comes to priority, there are some papers that are more pressing because the ideal time of sending them forward was months ago, but, those are mostly a matter of reformatting, as the required formatting and wording are different to how my systems handle information." "But after those are dealt with, I leave prioritization for you to decide on, as outside exceptions of very high priority, most of what comes through you are to be filed in order and in reasonable time, reasonable not having been specified." "You are also free to look into anything you feel can be useful on your own judgement, I just ask to be informed afterwards." "But if you want some direction to start with, I'd say the ideal order would be to first do the paperwork to catch up, and after that look into potential recruits." 

"Oh, and one more thing you should be aware of, our space is still under construction, so if you're a late worker, try to not be bothered by the construction crew, they work evenings." 

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

Ruby didn't change position when Spicy reappeared, she would only let go of Leviathan and fold her wing back closed when/if Leviathan actively moved herself away, but she did turn her head to look at Spicy as she spoke to her "When dark magic is involved, emotional reactions are to be expected." Ruby responded in her usual cold manner, be it more dragonic now than what Spicy had heard before; her wing worked as a sort of a privacy screen here too, and if Spicy moved around, Ruby would make sure it hid the two smaller dragons from whatever direction she went to too "We are fine, the smaller ones just need to unwind a bit." she instinctively tightened her wing around the two, she may have been hiding it well even from herself, but not only was she protective of the two, Leviathan's actions made her feel...something, she didn't know what it was, but she didn't want to let go of leviathan because of it.

Meanwhile inside the wing, seeing Leviathan's reaction, Charir also wrapped himself around Leviathan in more traditional hug, though it was less with comforting intent, as he hadn't fully understood that concept, and more a protective one, as even he had certain protective instincts in him already, and seeing the shaking and uneven breathing activated those, because while Leviathan was more capable than him, with his almost unconscious decision, that didn't have any weight, as the instinctual thought process was more along the lines of: can be hurt -> my scales are stronger.

"Did you deal with whatever was causing all that nonsense?`And do you know who the ponies who caused it in the first place could be? a mare and a stallion." 

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

They didn't say it, but they somehow doubted that they could just go to a dragon and be like 'hey stranger, could you make us some tools, we don't have any money or even materials.', maybe it was their past speaking, but they found it hard to believe that any non-kobold would be that kind. favor was a one thing, but spending resources too was another.

 "We aren't picky, and due to having survived most of our lives without outside help, we have lot of skills many don't have." they didn't remember if Neon was aware of their true nature, and while it wasn't a secret per say, they tried to come up with wordings that would make more sense for locals, mainly so that their future wasn't filled with them needing to explain their past to everyone they met, again, it wasn't a secret, but it would probably get annoying after a while. "But thinking about it, customer service may be tricky as currently the ponies in the town may be wary of kobolds, we were involved in couple of high profile events one after another." "But other than that, the only real limit would be magical creatures, because while we are quite capable, beings that aren't susceptible to physical damage are bit outside our skills." 

"I think it's the best bet to check the bounty board for now, then see the Apple farm if that's a bust." "If nothing else, we could probably try to take a page from Chega's book and do some kind of street performances, I'm sure there's worse options out there." Sheska said it half jokingly, but it wasn't fully out of the question, and was probably better option than things like pickpocket, which they also knew how to do. "I'm guessing the board would be somewhere nearby to the town hall? We can probably get the whole registering an address thing out of the way there too?"

 

 

 

 

[EQ_Theta 458]

@Blitz Boom

Though she wouldn’t have a response in mind, the golem smiled at Omen’s show of support; she remembered back in Mother’s realm when her fellow golems were working to infuse some of Discord’s chaos magic into the Ki’Nathar after a lengthy time spent fending off the false elder of their village. Or rather, it was the usage of powers similar to Discord’s, but the purpose remained the same. Perhaps she may find new friends in this new age, or she may end up like the recluse she once was, only appearing before others to divine their fates despite what advances her time were discovered. Either that or closely working with others to preserve what knowledge they could before their civilization came to an end.

Feelings of hope were rather low for Vates, but now that she had control of her own direction and life, maybe she could pursue it and find new joys. And it was with the conversation with Rosa that she could see the playfulness of C. G. coming to the forefront. Of course, the teasing may be getting to the thestral now, and so she would step in to hopefully assuage it.

On 2024-06-19 at 6:06 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I... *sigh* Yes, it's Driromancy, and it's not outlawed per se, but it is heavily frowned upon in most societies. Especially because of the historical stigma, where one are not satisfied with mere droplets, falling freshly from an appendage. Some crave a stream, and a stream of flesh blood, comes at an unacceptable cost of life. Though there are three variations of the practice in general, using fresh droplets, a bowl of freely given blood, and dead man's blood, in a properly prepared vesse- I can hear you smirk, C. G..."

"Oh don't mind me. Do go on with your lecture, professor."

"*grumble* I can give some pointers towards books on the subject later, Vates."

“Thank you, Rosa. If there is time, may I have some discussions with you on this matter and maybe others too? Though I used to act mostly solitarily in my past role, intellectual discussions are rather stimulating to develop new ideas and perspectives. Perhaps you could also indulge in providing in-depth explanations; I would not mind an opportunity to learn.”

While Vates went on, Lin slowly crept up to Rosa and playfully nudged him with one elbow. She had this big, cheeky smile plastered on her face as if hinting or teasing at some attraction from the golem despite none being present. It was all just being friendly to bring some levity, though she’d stop if requested. “Sounds like someone’s interested in your lectures.”

On 2024-06-19 at 6:06 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Not master. Hi."

It would rise from the rest, and somewhat nod towards him.

"Siblings are always hoping for a master We want to go and see other worlds. To grow and learn, more than anything else. I told them that you were not ready. But if you do one day, they will be ready.

Normal beings have everything to offer us, but we have nothing, except ourselves. And we give that without question, to anyone who would want to be our master. I were no different, when Discord scooped me up, and picked me."

As for Magus, he was caught rather off-guard by the formless ones’ thought process through Omen’s explanation. It wasn’t something he expected, but it solidified his thoughts on the matter that he couldn’t be a good master to someone looking for one. Then again, he didn’t see himself as a “master” in the typical sense either. There was a hierarchy in a contract, but shaping one carried a sense of power and responsibility that he wasn’t ready for. That kept him grounded, and perhaps there may come a time when he’d reconsider.

“By your words, it is all the more reason to consider the weight of one’s actions when shaping and nurturing the formless ones.” He smiled toward the formless one that slithered onto him while acknowledging the Ki’Nathar. “It is why I cannot become a master to your fellows. If they give all of themselves to someone who cannot do right by them, then it would be a waste. Thank you, Omen, for letting them know that I am not ready.”

Hearing Mother again was a rather calming feeling for the five golems. It may not be possible now, but they hoped to meet with her once again to simply exchange pleasantries and provide her an update on their current status. They quietly wondered what she might say if, or when, she’d see them in their new forms, separate and able to lead lives outside of the orb. Scarcity speaking of Magus’s insight into himself and the approval gave him a rather new feeling of metaphorical butterflies welling up inside; it felt odd but not in a negative fashion.

Once all had arrived at Scarcity’s home, well… one of many, they golems and the siblings were surprised at how ready the mare was ready to proceed to their business. Before them was a statue, resplendent in its grandeur yet hiding the prize Scarcity sought. However, it was rather odd that the power to make alicorns was sealed within this lamia statue. Primordial it may be yet it remained curious all the same.

On 2024-06-19 at 6:06 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I fully intend to have this statue reunited with its rightful owners, I will say. When it has fulfilled its purpose, I give my word that it will be returned, no strings attached. Yet I have waited for some such as you, to first help me harness what is within it, for the sake of unnatural longevity.

Raw, primordial magic. A sliver of what gods are made from... Yes, this should suffice, hmm? By all means, examine it to make certain."

With the mare’s permission, the golems went to work, examining each contour and edge to ascertain its authenticity. It would be a rather tricky undertaking, especially when the lamia were relatively unknown to the golems. However, with Legatos holding up the orb to parse the magic within and the others examining the sealed magic’s unique signatures, it was only a matter of time before they had their answer.

Magus fired a hollow beam of energy from his catalyst into the orb, which then passed to the lamia statue. All present would then see a kaleidoscope of swirling colors similar to Celestia’s signature mane, yet none could interact with it, not in its current form anyway. However, the golems then huddled and whispers left their mouths, their agreement seemingly evident despite some heated arguments slipping from their stony lips. Given about 20 minutes, they’d relay their findings back to Scarcity along with a plan.

“There’s no denying it: the magic sealed within is genuinely and truly what you seek, Lady Scarcity. Magic, especially in its current state, would be too unstable if it were removed and harnessed immediately, and it would do a lot more damage to the recipient and its surroundings.”

“All the more reason why it should be contained elsewhere first before it can be harnessed. That way, you can fulfill your obligations concerning the statue while the magic from said statue can be studied further before harnessing it. What we’ll need is this.”

From the orb, Magus conjured an image of an ornate golden box with its top tapering to a trapezoidal shape. It wouldn’t look out of place on someone’s dresser as it was identical in appearance to a large music box. Ultimately, its simple appearance hid its true purpose.

“This is a phylactery, a box that can safely contain and release magic held within it, and the statue’s magic will be sealed in it until it is ready for use. That said, it is unknown whether there are any phylacteries today that do not contain magic, leaving constructing one for ourselves as an alternative. However, there is something else that should be ascertained: is it only unnatural longevity you seek, Lady Scarcity? How the magic will eventually be used will determine what becomes of it after it is sealed.” 

[Lawyer Slip 2,528]

@Blitz Boom

*Slipstream admired the way they talked to each other, and listened to Ziggy's facts about them made him more interested.*

"Alright, well, it's been fun, but I think I'm gonna leave now. Those clouds won't bust themselves. Later!"

"See ya!"

*Rich then turned to Ziggy, and began to explain his tale.*

"Well, I'm not a Changeling, or a Kirin, or even cursed. The transformation is just a natural ability I have that I had in my old world. It kinda stuck with me here. I mainly use it to fight for a good purpose, or just to lift something heavy when I don't wanna use magic. Also . . ."

*He held up the origami Fah'lina to Ziggy.*

"This is for either you or her. It depends. I don't know if they collect things like this or if she'll even want it, I don't know how smart they are."

[Blitz Boom 4,621]

@EQ_Theta

22 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Thank you, Rosa. If there is time, may I have some discussions with you on this matter and maybe others too? Though I used to act mostly solitarily in my past role, intellectual discussions are rather stimulating to develop new ideas and perspectives. Perhaps you could also indulge in providing in-depth explanations; I would not mind an opportunity to learn.”

While Vates went on, Lin slowly crept up to Rosa and playfully nudged him with one elbow. She had this big, cheeky smile plastered on her face as if hinting or teasing at some attraction from the golem despite none being present. It was all just being friendly to bring some levity, though she’d stop if requested. “Sounds like someone’s interested in your lectures.”

"*Ahem* I can assure you all that I would happily oblige with a request for a more in depth explanation, now that someone finally care to hear what a studious mind holds. I believe when your matter with Scarcity have concluded, it may present us with an opportune time to visit the library, and I can find both tomes and a study to explain certain basics an definitions in more details."

"I'd bring some glue. Long as he can talk, your ears might fall off."

C. G. he expected as much as this from. Rosa yet remembered her behavior, and time apart had not seemed to temper that side of her, but rather made it swell. The best way to put it, being that she had a lot of teasing him to catch up on, and now that he were aware of her, he doubted that she would simply leave him be.

Truth be told, he were hard pressed to not find her presence somewhat comforting however. Bicker as they may, she were one of the few from his past, that had no beef with him, no orders to apprehend him on sight, and genuinely seemed to like the fact that he had improved in his life, since he had defected. They'd need to speak on some manner of boundaries at some point, and he'd assume, end up having to reiterate several of them, as she would ignore them for her own amusement's sake, but that were a journey that would come to pass at a later, more opportune time.

As for Lin... He did not expect this from her, and were honestly surprised at it. His gaze briefly said as much too, as he looked at her. Her teasing were of a different nature, though no less meant to redden his cheeks. And annoyingly so, with how he had already been somewhat flustered, her attempts did manage to bring a few shades of color more to his face. This were not a time he could point towards, and proclaim a proud moment of his, yet there were aught he could do, except take it currently, and then hope her newfound nature would be directed elsewhere soon.

On 2024-06-23 at 4:44 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“By your words, it is all the more reason to consider the weight of one’s actions when shaping and nurturing the formless ones.” He smiled toward the formless one that slithered onto him while acknowledging the Ki’Nathar. “It is why I cannot become a master to your fellows. If they give all of themselves to someone who cannot do right by them, then it would be a waste. Thank you, Omen, for letting them know that I am not ready.”

"You think more on it, then Master Discord did. He told me that he thought it would be funny, and were in a good mood, when so many of us came for him. He likes being the center of attention."

"If I may provide my perspective on the matter, after we have left here, Omen?"

"Okay."

She did not mind, though she found it odd he wouldn.t speak here. Yet she did as asked, and let him wait, until they got out, and had closed the gate behind them. At which time, he would begin to speak. After Scarcity had made her introductions to the home as it were.

"I think it would help of you to think of the nature of the Ki'nathar. They live in a realm of darkness, with naught in the way of things to experience, or lessons to be learned. They are formless shadows with eyes, playfully indulging in the base knowledge that they have, while they wait for someone to elevate them to wholeness.

They are not as you or I, not only because they have no form, but because they are incomplete of mind as well. An assertation I have gained by observing them, the times we have gone through, and listened to Omen's talks. She says that many of them who have gotten masters have gone through, and told tales. They even have certain things here, they can flock around and observe, yet they seem still to be simple of mind and rational. As such, I surmise that it is not a simple matter of them not having things to learn from, but rather that due to the state they are in, they are unable to grasp much, for any length of time.

I hold naught but respect for Mother, but I posture thusly: To make them ready, and not suffer from the long waits that seem to be between willing masters, they are intentionally born to be simple. To have fleeting minds, grasping on to what little is deemed important, as all else leaves them, so they do not grow mournful, or grasp with anger, that they must wait for so long, while they witness others being chosen over them.

Omen represents a stage close to what comes next. A simplistic mind, now settled and able to absorb things and grow correctly. Beings with a desperate desire to be taught, now they they finally have the capacity to focus on the matter, and understand how very, very little they truly know. Naive children, yearning to fill that gaping void, with the boundless information and sights there is to behold, who yet remembers the most important things, that they were able to learn: To be peaceful, and to listen to authority.

Discord I believe, caused an anomaly in the process, due to his highly chaotic nature. By all accounts, Hammond is more than capable of feeling, and understands the base principles of emotions, am I correct, Lady Scarcity?"

"You are indeed. My dear Hammond have grasped things with ease, but even before being it explained, things as pain, or hunger, were things he felt. He needed only words for it."

"Yet Omen does not work as such, and thus she is a special creature, even among her own kin. Yet I digress from the base point, which is simply that if my hypothesis holds true, you are doing the right thing in being aware of your own shortcomings, as the sudden capabilities it would hold for understanding and a want to do everything for that, would likely be overwhelming, as you seek your own place in this world. Even if you would give life, as it were.

And I do mean it in a literal sense, to give new life. It is but a theory, but I do wonder of their peculiar nature. Shadows with eyes, bound to a realm beyond what is normal? I do ponder at times, if the reason for their eyes being the only thing that does not shift, is because they are in some capacity, simply souls. What Mother does away from prying eyes, being to somehow condense shards of her own magic into these eyes, to tether the souls. Though it leaves several things unanswered still. Like why magic alone, can somehow give life of flesh and blood, befitting of the realm they are going to.

I suppose I am simply spit-balling theories as it were, but the essence of it, remains that I support you in your choice, as you could hear Mother did too."

"You always had a gift for making a sentence into a novel. But hey, just means that noggin of yours still works."

Omen wouldn't speak on the matter, because honestly, she didn't understand half of it. When he began to use big words consistently, she assumed it wasn't something that were meant for her to hear, and so would go around and look at things instead.

On 2024-06-23 at 4:44 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“There’s no denying it: the magic sealed within is genuinely and truly what you seek, Lady Scarcity. Magic, especially in its current state, would be too unstable if it were removed and harnessed immediately, and it would do a lot more damage to the recipient and its surroundings.”

“All the more reason why it should be contained elsewhere first before it can be harnessed. That way, you can fulfill your obligations concerning the statue while the magic from said statue can be studied further before harnessing it. What we’ll need is this.”

From the orb, Magus conjured an image of an ornate golden box with its top tapering to a trapezoidal shape. It wouldn’t look out of place on someone’s dresser as it was identical in appearance to a large music box. Ultimately, its simple appearance hid its true purpose.

“This is a phylactery, a box that can safely contain and release magic held within it, and the statue’s magic will be sealed in it until it is ready for use. That said, it is unknown whether there are any phylacteries today that do not contain magic, leaving constructing one for ourselves as an alternative. However, there is something else that should be ascertained: is it only unnatural longevity you seek, Lady Scarcity? How the magic will eventually be used will determine what becomes of it after it is sealed.” 

A slight change in expression showed on Scarcity's face, when she matter of the box came up, with her seemingly being rather... Displeased with the mention of such a thing. And yet her mind still raced, formulating words and plans, thinking over various things while Magus finished speaking, that she might have a response on the ready afterwards.

"I am not in possession of one, but I know what a phylactery is, yes. However I am mostly familiar of them not from the capacity to store magic alone, but also to store souls.  The means of a lich, to remain for longer than they should.

Even would I take or buy one from them, they are tainted by their own magic, prepared as they are to harness their souls. Furthermore, I am loathe to speak directly with most as it were, considering their general methods. The country of Harrowmark have tentatively been opened to Equestria, and they of any, knows death magic well, but still there, said phylactery would likely be tainted with magic... Yes, I would concede that while it would take longer, a newly made one are less likely to have been used, or prepared incorrectly. Though I can spread the word, and see if any of my business associates are aware of where one can be found. I would ask for a day or two to seek the answer, and then return to you. In the meantime, if you would prepare a list of things that would be needed, if I find naught? It would speed things along, even if we are technically in no rush.

As for what I seek... Longevity is ever the most important, but I would welcome more power if it were possible. Not that you'd have to worry. I am not one for seeking thrones or chaos. I fully enjoy society as it is, and I would find the constant spotlight that a throne would provide, to be dull and stifling. Yet power would be good, to make me more efficient at dealing with problematic elements, as well as protect myself, and those near me, if certain individuals might turn foolish enough to try something. I have gotten far on wisdom and cunning, but there are times when more direct methods are the only conflict solving solution.

Yet I would ask something of you too: Your plan, what might it be? You are not aiming to make me a lich now, are you? I find longevity rings hollow, if I am yet dead, and little more than a glorified specter.

So do tell, what is the plan? And do not skimp on the details please."

Scarcity were disappointed, that she could not simply have things done now, but for it to be done right, she would be patient, and wait for her prize. Long as it were still there to be claimed, she could indulge in waiting some time. She had already waited years, so what were a few days or weeks more?

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Most certainly. I will appraise you of any development of note, as well as letting you know when the papers are in order. As for the potential recruits, I will not come at first. I would think it more conductive to your work, if I first gather their personnel files, as it were. General history, former crimes, progress of their rehabilitations, and so forth. A more comprehensive file, the more educated of a decision you can make, when it comes to whom might be of interest."

Magma were used to a lot of various work in her former lab, but one were knowing when to not waste the time of her superiors. As such, you better have enough with you, that you might answer even the most basic of questions, were they given, or you may as well have not bothered in the first place.

"in regards to your last comment sir, I will be a late worker for at least the first few days, as I am not one to want for a messy work. I would want the paperwork of both current and former affairs in place, before I retire for the day, rather than have it nag at my mind. I may not have the bodily functions I once did, but elementals do still have a need to rest, just as they need to aquire nourishment. I just have less use of lettuce these days, over eating literal molten rocks and kindling. And I can assure you, the experience were not pleasant, nor easy to get used to. But it is as it is.

As for noise..."

She'd raise a hoof to her face, and push her glasses a bit further up her face, whilst letting out a sigh.

"The lab I were part of, were not far from the Boom Family's grand workshop. And as inventors tend to be, soon as they have an idea in their mind, they care not much for time, so we would hear clanging and other noise at odd hours with some frequency. You learn to tune such things out after a time, so I can assure you that them working will not be distressing or distracting. I would almost call it familiar, were it not because I doubt they will explode something with any regularity."

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@Catpone Cerberus

Leviathan gladly accepted the extra attention, snuggling in to both Ruby and Charir, as best she could. Their presence, and more importantly their embrace, would do much to soothe her. The shakes lessening with every passing second, and her breathing growing steady. Tears yet rolled from her eyes though. However slowly, but surely, even they would begin to dry up, as the seconds passed, whilst her draconic companions addressed Spicy.

"Hey, I ain't gonna question your want to keep 'em covered, just in case something else starts to wriggle out somewhere.  It's good on ya.

But yeah, this place outta be cleared now, though the lion share of that credit goes to my assistant."

As if he waited for a queue, the deer from before would appear on the opening of the temple, and wander down, to stand next to Spicy, who's put a hoof around him, and point towards him with the other one.

"He's pretty handy actually. Soaked that whole thing up like a sponge. That sorta thing ain't easy to come by y'know. Ain't much of a talker, but maybe that'll change later.

I'm assuming you don't mind if I keep 'im, right? He's creepy, resilient, and got a knack for doing something, that outta pay a few coins here and there. I'll go about teaching the lad some ways of the world, but I think he'll do good, once he's sorted out proper."

Heck, he were already following her, so why not, right? Seemed like he were expecting her to take charge and lead him. So she would. Heck, somepony had to. Couldn't just let a zombie of sorta roam the countryside all by his lonesome. He might get bored and eat somepony, hah!

"And no, I ain't sure who caused this mess. When my brother tipped me off about this place, it had been mostly looked through, and there weren't a darn skeleton in sight. No bones to speak of either. So either he lied to me, or somepony came 'round later, and caused a mess. I'm gonna beat out of him if its the first option, but if it ain't, I'll try asking 'round. Who knows? Maybe somepony saw something.

As for this dump? It's a total wash now. All these bones, and scriptures further in? This here's a historical sight of sorts. Unless the deer wash their hooves with it, we can't do much more to it. And I frankly doubt they wanna do that, cause then others might pop in and learn some story they didn't want out. At least I ain't thinking that this much dark magic, is something they're overly proud of. Or they forgot all about it, and couldn't care. Governmental egg heads got that headache to deal with, not me."

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Yep, the board is right around the mayors house. It makes it easier to find, since it's at a center point in town, and some of the requests has to pass her office first. The real tough stuff, since there's some forms and such that has to be filled out, in case of accidents. We'll have a look and see what's on it when we get the chance, yeah? Or are you done here for now, and wanna get the nitty gritty sorted right away?"

She had kinda hoped these two would pick the bounty board. They gave off that vibe, y'know? But beyond that, she also didn't know anypony in her friend circle, who were bounty hunters. Seeing they might go that route, were pretty cool. Even if they took some low ranking stuff, like clearing pests, or retrieving lost items at first, it were still rather sweet. Maye they'd come back with some cool stories and stuff? More than likely, and the tales would certainly add some pep to the day.

If it were they were ready to go, she'd happily lead them back to town, where it wouldn't be a long trip to get to the mayor's office. And the bounty board seemed to have quite a few things on it today, yet nopony looking at it currently. Well, beyond some foals in the passing, but that were just youthful curiosity.

Seemed to be nothing earth shattering. A few requests for specific plants or crystals in the forest. One for thinning out some particularly troublesome insect nests. Three for finding some things that had been stolen or lost in the forest. One for hunting any remaining mutant frogs out there - the depiction made them seem more like horror goblins with long tongues - then several for investigating things happening further in, and reporting back. Including some about the old castle, and the new draconequui that had taken residence in it. One even seemed to be from the mayor herself, asking for able-bodied adventurers, to go and negotiate some level of accord with the draconequui, to lessen the impact of her presence on the forest. There were also one for a protection gig, where somepony wanted some strong backs to watch his, while he did some tag and release in the deep forest.

This and more were plastered on the board, with several seemingly having been there for a time. As were said, this town had not many bounty hunters, as it were reliant on mostly those who passed through, looking for a way to make some coin.

As for the mayor's office? It stood door closed, but they could wander right in, and make a request to speak with the mayor from her assistant. It were early in the day, so she likely didn't have a lot to do.

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@Lawyer Slip

"Goodbye, Dashie! Remember to take breaks, and don't overexert your wings too much for a few days."

She probably wouldn't listen to that, but Ziggy were a doctor, so she had to at least try and tell her to watch for her health, before she ended up being halfway through a sea of clouds, as her wings would suddenly give out. That could cause some nasty troubles for her.

With her gone, she could return to focus on the tale of her peculiar new companion, whilst the two mimics would scurry around, picking up whatever edible things they could find strewn around to munch on. They wouldn't fight over it either, sharing freely between one another, as were normal with their kin.  They lived normally in small colonies, and for them, hoarding food for yourself were not accepted. They were meant to hunt and scavenge all, and then share anything edible they found, so that they all could eat. Now personal items, like the needles that Tayze had? Totally fair game, and they often competed over who had the best stuff, and used it to decorate themselves and their homes with. Stuff like the needles, that could double as weapons? Highly valued accessories, so Tayze were among the more envied in her scavenging prowess.

"Hehe, you sure like spinning tall tales. But I've never seen anything like this, so sure! I'll believe iii- Ooooh, pretty! And it's for us?"

Her thoughts had trailed off near the end, as the origami were presented to her, and she'd lean in closely to watch, lights nearly glittering in her eyes. Much as she were an adult, and a doctor at that, Ziggy certainly had a younger spirit, and acted upon it more often than not, lest the situation required seriousness. Too much doom and gloom in the world already, so why not face it with a smile and some joy, right?

As her words ended though, she would zoom in, and give the peculiar alicorn a big ol' hug. Had he been a changeling, the sheer joy radiating from her, might have actually caused him to vomit from overexposure, so lucky for him that he wasn't, yeah?

"Yey! I dunno what she'd do with it, but I'm gonna put it on the desk back at my friends home for now, one hundred percent! When she comes home someday, I'll figure out what to do with it, hehe."

She'd let go after giving him another, surprisingly strong squeeze.

"It's really well done. You must've practiced that a lot. Oooh, do you have like, a whole zoo of origami animals somewhere? O! Or do you like, animate them, like I read the kitsune does? I bet you could. Alicorns have all sorts of weird magic. *gasp* Or you could ask some kitsune to teach you! I've heard there's two of them in Ponyville right now. They're probably suuuuuper cute, but they're in the school, and I promised Twilight to stop running around and hugging everypony in there, so I don't go there a lot. Easier to not do it, when I'm not tempted right? Hehe."

[Lawyer Slip 2,528]

@Blitz Boom

"Actually, we do have a little area of the house where I keep all these guys. I've been practicing for about 3 years now, and it's been pretty fun to do! It's crazy hard to learn though. Also, I don't know if I should meet them. Where I'm from, if a grown-up is meeting a child somewhere, it's never good. But, it's fine."

"If I may. I just wanted to say, I'm fine if you hug me, and I love giving hugs as well. Receiving them is even better! But, I still find it hard to interact with other ponies. It ain't easy being me. Also, how do you get your mane smelling all peppermint-y like that? It's really cool, and good to smell. It kinda makes me feel like I'm talking to a giant candy cane. No offense of course."

"Also, what I said earlier. 100% true. Watch."

*He turned into the golem and the back to his alicorn self.*

"See? Easy. I'm also in perfect control of both forms since it's still me in both of them. I don't have two personalities to manage, just me, myself, and of course Slipstream."