open Casual stroll

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Catpone Cerberus

Magma would take another gulp of her coffee, before she responded, having started enjoying the cup in full, just as Solar were looking over the paperwork she had prepared.

It were good to hear that he considered everything to look up to order, and had signed it without issue. She had no doubt that everything were in fact, in order, but confirmation from another were still nice and validating. It took a good deal of work, to get these things sorted well, and she took pride in her work. Something that had been denied her for month on end by now, yet as she finally had employment, she could once again feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, in seeing the fruits of her labor.

"I find that I do not need to rest as often as I used to anymore, but I appreciate that you ask, sir. For now, in lieu of a break, might I instead ask if I can finish this first?"

She would raise the coffee, and take another sip. Were she allowed to, she would drink it over the next 5-10 minutes (depending on the size) and ready the letter between gulps. Which really just meant to close it, as she already wrote the details on the front and back as needed. She just had to get it to a post office, or directly delivered to the guards then, and things would get in motion. Depending on how busy they were, she should be getting a response back within the next 1-4 days.

There were of course also the option that they would call upon her, rather than send files over, and she could then purview things under more secure circumstances, but she were mostly counting on that too. It would reduce the time it would take for her to get a response, and could well mean that she spotted some that the guards didn't consider, or had wanted to keep on the down low, for one reason or another. Though they'd see. Might be she'd get several boxes of paperwork instead.

Once she were done, or they'd simply begin to walk off, with him informing her that she could drink whilst they walked, she would say something, before his tour would get them too far.

"As we were tangibly in on it before, I don't expect to have to be here all the time, but I couldn't have left before. My desk and everything preliminary in nature being in an unfinished state, I would have spent all my time thinking on how I would do things anyway. I found it best to have this done, and my head cleared. Wouldn't be much of a rest otherwise.

But please, do lead the way. I'm curious about the rest of the layout."

She would make sure to put her security card on first though. She assumed there'd be some scanners they had to use, to get past certain checkpoints, as she were used to in Center Zero. She supposed she'd see soon, but so far, it seemed like a good place to work, and she were only marginally concerned that what she hadn't seen, would change that.

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@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-10-14 at 11:47 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Charir too had his eyes on Leviathan, though his admiration was visible  and pure, to him it was very impressive how Leviathan moved in the water, and he didn't even try to hide it. When Leviathan came out of the water fully, Charir slammed his tail on the ground as a form of applause, his expression being the mane show of the intended message. It was however cut short as the crab, which he was still holding in his claws, manged to close its claw on Charir's snout; It didn't hurt, as Charir's scales were too hard for a mere crab to get through, but it bemused him for a moment before he finally just ate the crab. 

Leviathan would take a bow, big grin on her face, as she saw that at least one were openly pleased with her showing off. The one she had expected to as well. Sure it'd be nice if Ruby clapped, but it'd take more than this. Maybe if she had pulled an actual sea monster in, but she hadn't seen anything. Things seemed rather standard around here. Might be the water were the only safe zone in sight, huh? Hard for her to say, but it'd explain why the water wasn't filled with large predators, hunting for smaller predators. She had assumed the ecosystem there would reflect the landmass they were near, but seemingly not.

Might be a good thing. One place of semi-respite before going into the danger zone. Someplace with proper food no less. Well, to her anyway. Charir seemed to enjoy it well enough too, with him munching on a crab that had gotten stuck to his face. Good to see that someone else enjoyed the crunch.

On 2024-10-14 at 11:47 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"No need for more, thank you." Ruby stated, she didn't need a full meal, and besides, she wasn't sure if she could even eat enough for that, because again, she didn't really like seafood. Ruby didn't turn away from Leviathan right away, though if she paid attention, Leviathan could possibly notice that Ruby wasn't really looking at her in the way she generally did when talking to someone, but rather looking at her as a whole, as if she was looking at something she liked, in a good way, not the food way. If she didn't notice it, or noticed but didn't say anything, Ruby would catch herself from doing it, and would turn towards the meal that was brought to her, though the way she moved her glance was bit more quick than usual. 

She would ultimately decide to pick  the following: couple of bass, couple of eels, and the shark; she'd see later if she wanted more. 

Charir meanwhile would go around the shallow water catching crabs, they weren't any more tasty than any other marine life for him, but he really liked the crunch. 

She'd grin, seeing what it were that Ruby had picked. Especially the last one, were something that she had hoped the larger dragoness would pick, as she had talked about how good shark could taste. Granted, she'd personally use some spices, herbs, and grill them, but maybe another time, she could present them with a proper roast of the sea. That had to impress them at least a bit, or their tastebuds were just dead, heh.

Charir seemed to like his seafood too, and were hunting crabs around. She'd gotten a few of those up too, of a nice size, so she'd let out a whistle to try and get his attention, and held a crab with a hole straight through the head up. She figured it'd perhaps interest him, and she'd toss it towards him, if he seemed to be interested. If not, she'd put it down again, and pick a bass, then breathe fire on it to quick roast it. It were a good deal better that way in her mind, when she chomped into it.

"Personally I find properly cooking it makes shark better, but I'll keep that thought for another time, then sort a proper filleted, spiced and roasted seafood menu. I know you like stuff raw, but trust me, if that doesn't make you like fish, then ain't nothing will.

Sides, been a while since I had the chance to cook for creatures that weren't diamond dogs. It'll be a hoot."

She'd grin and chomp down on her own food, but Ruby and/or Charir might well be able to tell that she were trying to cover over how she were getting a tinge of nervousness in, now that she couldn't distract herself by hunting for fish and stuff. Being this close to a place she heard so much about, would get to her nerves, and at least for now, she thought that she were hiding it fairly okay. Probably weren't gonna last though, even if they couldn't tell. Not when they finally crossed over there properly.

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@Catpone Cerberus

"Lemme guess, her drone told you off, yeah? He's been overly suspicious of the doctors too at times, if he hasn't seem them before. I went in to check her charts, first time after he came rushing in, and I swear he looked at me for a second, like he were gonna flay me. Very overprotective that one.

Still, it's good she have somepony there. He haven't left her side since he got there, and something tells me he hasn't slept either. Apparently drones are a lot closer to their queens than figured, from how it went with Chrysalis."

Truth be told, she had a sneaking suspicion that it were more than that. Like, here were a changeling queen, and she had one drone show up. One who refused to leave her alone, and sat at her side, keeping a close eye on her, and everypony who got near her. Probably paranoid that one, but he had let one thing slip, beyond just his name, and that this were his queen. He'd been half-mumbling it as she got into the room the second time.

He didn't want her to wake up alone.

Could be the protective thing again, but... Heh, maybe she were just being a romantic honestly. Still, it seemed a nice thought, and regardless, it were good that she wouldn't wake up eventually, with nopony else than some hospital staff to talk to.

While Trox went off to get the weapons though, she did a quick think on who the guard they were talking about were. They had a few pass through, but realistically, there were only one she assumed they were talking about.

"Say, that guard you're talking about, it's Stargazer, yes? He's the only bat pony guard we've had in Ponyville since... Ever, really. And our only local guard. I know where he lives, if it's because you'd rather just deal with him directly? This time of day, he's either at his office, or on the way to pick up his daughter from school."

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@EQ_Theta

On 2024-10-14 at 4:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Elder Ghilan’s position is… unique. Normally, one village’s elders are left to run their villages without the involvement of other elders. Here, it’s a different case where what happened in a village is concerning enough that other elders have to learn about it. It seems your arrival and the whole mess with the former elder Solasan was big enough to get their attention.”

“I guess leaving things where they were after Solasan’s gone wasn’t enough. I just wanted to be done with that.”

“Maybe, but the other elders will not see it that way. If I were to guess, they would be pointing their claws at all of you and Ghilan. They do not know the details, and they will assume you had something to do with his disappearance. Now Omen, from what I remember, Solasan was about as average as you can get with an elder. He did not do much to stick out until what happened to your mother and father. Even then, the village hunters followed him, some even liked him. Guess he was just good at hiding his true nature until then.”

“He made sure we were well-trained and the routes going through the forest were secured. Even encouraged the hunters to develop new techniques that could make us more effective trackers and fighters. But Xin told us he also threatened him, which was possibly true for those who didn’t listen to him.”

“If you are certain, then that might help your case. But only bring it up when the topic comes up. Better to be safe than sorry.”

"I did not have anything to do with Salosan going away. Mother sent him to the bad place, that she says is very dangerous. She does not like it, when her children are being threatened."

Mother were their everything, and her children meant all to her in turn. Salosan threatening them, incurred her wrath. And when you could open gates to countless worlds, you had several options to punish those who ended on her bad side. Not that she would normally go this far, but Salosan had openly hurt them too, with Lin and Sen especially affected. So she had done the worst possible thing she could do to him in return.

Yet she hadn't been told that she should not talk about it, and so she would. Though they might want to tell her to not use her sisters name. The elders feeling like something were scraping on their minds, poking at their brain, would likely not give a good impression of Omen. They already had to get used to how she spoke, so they might want to thread carefully. Yet Omen didn't think much of it, and probably wouldn't at all, unless it were brought up by one of the others.

"Do they know what he did? Or did no one tell them yet? Is that one of the reasons we are going there?"

If they blamed Sen, Lin, and Omen, then it might mean that they did not know what had happened. Omen didn't know that much either, having only second hoof knowledge, but Sen and Lin should be able to tell what had happened, yes? The two had been in the situation, and maybe that were what the elders wanted to know from them? Or did someone else tell them a story, that wasn't true, and they were blamed because of that? Then they should just tell the truth, and this should be done. Seemed simple enough, yes?

Yet as with most situations, Omen would guess that it would not turn out to be simple, in the long run. It rarely seemed to be, these last few weeks.

On 2024-10-14 at 4:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Well… there is something like what you described. It is hearsay but there is a thick patch of trees in the forest that has grown going west. Most travelers go through it instead of around it, but there have been stories of delays lasting for at least two days. The lost travers arrived tired but fine, though they recall feeling like the forest is ‘shifting’ or the trees are ‘watching them.’ Creepy but no one is certain of the truth behind them. Most just accept that they got turned around before finding their way.”

“And no one’s decided to investigate?”

“No, or at least no one is taking this seriously. If the longma just waved it off like it was nothing, then I do not think it is anyone’s business to find enemies in places where there are none. Look, I know we were debating earlier but this might be important to you; sorry that we have to cut that short. We might end up arguing in circles if we kept at it for longer. I just hope that what we did helped you prepare. I take it this means you will try looking for these Evergrown?”

"If you can show me where, then yes. But Rosa was the one who told us about them, and he said that you need another Evergrown to look for their town. When you sleep, I can go and ask him to find the one he said he knew, and then take them there? Or is it still bad to take others here, if I do not tell anyone that I take them here?

I do not think I could find them alone, but maybe I could try. I will let you decide."

She were unlikely to find something, unless one of the Evergrown got curious, and wandered out to meet her. Which they might very well. The ones in this area, only knew the Longma. Ponies were an unseen group, for all but the founders of the local village. For saplings, and generations after, they wouldn't have seen, but only heard of creatures like that. And Omen did stand out in the forest, with her odd coloration.

On 2024-10-14 at 4:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It is a stark contrast between invoking the divine and directly harnessing natural elements. We have heard about pegasi walking on clouds, and it is not so farfetched to believe they can do more with the weather. If magic exists, then we have to at least believe a lot of things can be possible.”

"Magic have revolutionized many things, that is for certain. But technology and good old fashioned science have brought us far too. The best there is, have learned to combine these things.. Hence things such as the weather machine, which combines magic and technology to seamlessly tame the once harsh weather of Equestria.

Can't say I know the details though. Trade secret and all that. Hmm, and I am more the sort who looks to the past. Machinery is not a forte of mine, to understand. Not these new fangled ones, that much is sure."

The weather machine were one thing, but the various things running on solar energy, the newer machines they had sorted in the scrap yard, etc. It were not that he didn't understand what others told him that they did. Rather, he couldn't fathom how such a thing were put together in the slightest, and when some things were then tried to be told him in details... He prided himself a taught stallion, but most of the thing he were told were simply beyond his understanding.

But that were fine. He were specialized in the past, whilst others would be handling those kinds of things. Those who made such things, would probably not grasp his work fully either. Possibly because they'd nod off due to boredom.

On 2024-10-14 at 4:07 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Place it on the ground, and we will examine it in safety. At the very least, having a protective barrier will prevent further harm to lives and property. Magus? I will need your assistance.”

The two golems stood across each other, the necklace in between them. Magus didn’t need to be reminded of what to do, only that this procedure needed his magical abilities. He sat up, raised both front legs, and began making circular gestures with his hooves. Then, holding his catalyst, he began creating a large sigil mid-air, manifesting as a golden, six-pronged, circular sigil. He’d then direct the sigil to the ground, surrounding the necklace and creating the magical barrier as described earlier by Vates. It didn’t take long for the magic to hold, and soon they’d be ready for a battery of tests.

“As sudden and unprofessional as this may be, there is a clear and present danger, so it must be addressed. Before we continue, can you tell us more about that incident with the visitor? Your recounting made it seem like the object was behaving rather beast-like.”

They'd place it as requested, before Rusty would give a response to the question.

"I can't really say much more. I were not present when it happened."

"I were. I can tell you what I saw.

It basically began to fly around erratically. Seemed to focus on just a few guests, then the surroundings, before it swerved into a wall. It went right after the visitor after that.

After we managed to pull it off him, it flapped over to a perch and started just looking at us, before it twitched and began flying off again, eventually returning to the chain.

There is a detail that might matter? When it first woke up, its eyes were deep purple, but every once in a while, the left started to switch over to green."

"Are you sure of that?"

"Positive. I were chasing that thing for the better part of an hour, along with the others. I saw this several times. Though if it is anything that is relevant, I can't say. Curator Blotch were adamant that it is probably some defective unit from some older time, and that's why it acted so erratically. For all I know, it was made to eat ponies, and are just slowly adjusting to itself again. Wouldn't be the first thing made for that sole purpose that I know of."

 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-10-17 at 9:29 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I did not have anything to do with Salosan going away. Mother sent him to the bad place, that she says is very dangerous. She does not like it, when her children are being threatened."

Mother were their everything, and her children meant all to her in turn. Salosan threatening them, incurred her wrath. And when you could open gates to countless worlds, you had several options to punish those who ended on her bad side. Not that she would normally go this far, but Salosan had openly hurt them too, with Lin and Sen especially affected. So she had done the worst possible thing she could do to him in return.

Yet she hadn't been told that she should not talk about it, and so she would. Though they might want to tell her to not use her sisters name. The elders feeling like something were scraping on their minds, poking at their brain, would likely not give a good impression of Omen. They already had to get used to how she spoke, so they might want to thread carefully. Yet Omen didn't think much of it, and probably wouldn't at all, unless it were brought up by one of the others.

"Do they know what he did? Or did no one tell them yet? Is that one of the reasons we are going there?"

“Try telling that to the elders and see if they listen. They do not know your Mother, and they did not see what happened. As far as they are concerned, you fought back, and Solasan is not around now; Ghilan is in his spot as elder. That is as good enough as removing the former elder from his post and enough for the other elders to summon Ghilan for questioning.”

“Omen is right about asking if the other elders knew what Solasan did. They should know that the real one was long gone and a fake was running the village.”

“And how will you prove that? Will you go around looking for a long-decayed elder and dig up what is left of him for proof?”

“Xin’s family was threatened by Solasan, and he’s coming with us. His word will carry weight with the elders.”

“You better have more than just his word. Unless you know of other folks in this village who were threatened or saw what happened, one longma’s word might not be enough.” 

Zo’s words were true in a sense that more evidence was required. Sadly, there might not be enough time to go around interviewing the villagers for more solid proof of Solasan’s treachery. Tangible proof is in short supply, but there might still be something to work with. If one were to recall the golem scholars, their disembodied voices were stored in an orb that served as a repository, and that orb was, at one point, in Solasan’s possession. There might still be something in that orb, a recorded memory or some voices. Irrefutable proof that couldn’t just be fabricated, and fortunately, they’ll only need to borrow the orb for a while.

It was that or bring Legion back from the realm Mother sent him to for punishment. For that, they’ll need to get him to admit the truth, but Sen and Lin weren’t going to stake the burden of proof on someone so remorseless. Lin thought about her options, then turned to Sen and Omen with a confident smile. 

“We know someone we can turn to for our proof.”

On 2024-10-17 at 9:29 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"If you can show me where, then yes. But Rosa was the one who told us about them, and he said that you need another Evergrown to look for their town. When you sleep, I can go and ask him to find the one he said he knew, and then take them there? Or is it still bad to take others here, if I do not tell anyone that I take them here?

I do not think I could find them alone, but maybe I could try. I will let you decide."

“Honestly, do not let me stop you from trying to look, however way you will go about it. Just so we are clear, path going west of the village is where the travelers were coming from, and if I can guess where you are going soon, that is where you will pass as well.”

“You know where we are going?”

“My guess is Shii Cao’yuan. That is where the important gatherings happen so that place makes sense to me. You might not have enough time to investigate unless you get lucky and run into one of those Evergrown. If you do happen to see or meet one, let me know, all right? That is surely going to make you the most interesting someone in this village, Omen.”

It may not be wise to bank on luck to find the Evergrown; there may not even be Evergrown in the forest. However, there may be just enough evidence to not rule out their presence. If the Evergrown are there, it might get the longma to rethink their whole isolationist stance when a group of intelligent creatures is just nearby.

On 2024-10-17 at 9:29 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Magic have revolutionized many things, that is for certain. But technology and good old fashioned science have brought us far too. The best there is, have learned to combine these things.. Hence things such as the weather machine, which combines magic and technology to seamlessly tame the once harsh weather of Equestria.

Can't say I know the details though. Trade secret and all that. Hmm, and I am more the sort who looks to the past. Machinery is not a forte of mine, to understand. Not these new fangled ones, that much is sure."

“That is true. And I know for sure my fellows are going to have to see these weather machines one day.”

“Controlling the weather… I never thought I’d see the day something like that becomes reality. Nature’s fury, now leashed. It must be nice to not worry about severe storms. Or am I mistaken and those are still naturally occurring?”

Scriniarii interjected, the thought crossing his mind. If the weather was now under control, then has that eliminated naturally occurring storms? Or is there a certain point where the pegasi allow the weather to simply be, no control required? Even then, one must wonder if the pegasi allow powerful storms to exist and if so, their reasoning behind it. It might not be a pretty answer.

On 2024-10-17 at 9:29 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I were. I can tell you what I saw.

It basically began to fly around erratically. Seemed to focus on just a few guests, then the surroundings, before it swerved into a wall. It went right after the visitor after that.

After we managed to pull it off him, it flapped over to a perch and started just looking at us, before it twitched and began flying off again, eventually returning to the chain.

There is a detail that might matter? When it first woke up, its eyes were deep purple, but every once in a while, the left started to switch over to green."

"Are you sure of that?"

"Positive. I were chasing that thing for the better part of an hour, along with the others. I saw this several times. Though if it is anything that is relevant, I can't say. Curator Blotch were adamant that it is probably some defective unit from some older time, and that's why it acted so erratically. For all I know, it was made to eat ponies, and are just slowly adjusting to itself again. Wouldn't be the first thing made for that sole purpose that I know of."

“The way you described its behavior, I am inclined to believe what we have here is not a curse. What if we are looking at this the wrong way and coming to the conclusion that it is cursed? Perhaps it could be a ravenous mimic masquerading as a necklace.” 

“Erratic flight, attacking visitors…. Perhaps its creators intended it to be such. Still, maybe there is something we can do to make sure we know what we are dealing with. We will test by aggravating this necklace first by using little bolts of magic.” 

Vates didn’t want to start things off too quickly, not when they could misdiagnose the problem. With the necklace now surrounded by a protection barrier, they could start by establishing what it was they were dealing with. Magus conjured a small bolt of energy and fired it right at the necklace to see how it would react. Rusty and Mystril won’t have to worry about damage though. The bolt of energy would not leave a mark, sort of like how rubber flicked against a wall; it will bounce off, leaving the object no worse for wear. If the necklace came to life again, then they could better study it up close and in safety.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
Solar simply nodded in approval, as he too had a coffee to drink, and besides, he wouldn't have offered her to keep the break now, if he was planning to deny it. While they had their 'break' Solar interacted with the machine next to his desk, connecting himself to it and printing out some papers, which he then put on his own desk for now; if Magma looked at them, something which Solar didn't try to stop in any way, she'd find them to be lists of sorts, but lot of the words used in them would be such that she wouldn't know what they meant, as they were words for technology, systems and so on that didn't exist in this world. 

 As they were done, Solar would lead Magma out of the room as he responded, grabbing a box with ready paperwork labelled 'Archive' "I'm flexible on your presence as long as work is done, with exception being times when I may specifically request you to be here for reason or another, the only set time I ask is in the morning, so that you can process anything that may have made its way to the mail box." "At the same time, if there's ever times when there's simply nothing to do, I do not expect you to stay in just for sake of staying." 

"We'll start with what will become a very familiar place for you, the archive." He lead her through the hallways to a door that looked like every other door, with a small sign above the mail slot labeled 'archive' "If you have only few things with you, they can be dropped into the mail slot, which will only open if you have your card with you, though just having it present is enough." "However, in cases like this, where we have lot of material at once ,it is preferable to drop it off to the staff." He opened the door "The door, like the mail slot, needs the card to be with you to open, but it is 24/7." "The night staff do tend to be bit more uptight, so I prefer waiting until the morning." 

He would then lead her in to what was very unassuming room, with a counter going wall from wall with two service points, one for giving things into the archive, and one for taking things out. Solar would then introduce Magma to the staff member, who wrote something down, and he would then explain the simple process step by step to Magma. In short, as they had several different things at once, they had to fill a paper where they summarized what they dropped off, not in detail, but by category, and sign it. 

After this was done and it was time to move on, now with an empty box, Solar would ask if Magma had questions or comments before they continued on. 

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

Charir's attention was turned to Leviathan when she whistled, not because he necessarily understood that was her goal, but because any unexpected sound like that got his attention, as anything unusual could be either dangerous or just interesting. In his usual manner, he tilted his head as Leviathan presented the crabs, and if this was enough of a show of interest, he'd take the ones Leviathan tossed to him, as food was food, and while hunt was part of the fun usually, crabs weren't exactly the most thrilling of prey, so he didn't loose much with the ones that were already dead. He did observe the way that Leviathan had killed them though, as the hole through the head was a peculiar way to do it, to him at least; But when he thought about it, there wasn't any obvious neck to break or throat to rip out for these creatures, so it made sense to him, even if he didn't bother killing them himself.

"I personally just don't get the point of spice." Ruby stated as she cut a piece out of the shark, the smaller creatures she could shallow whole or crush in her mouth, but the bones of the shark were bit too big for pleasant meal "Why ruin perfectly good meat with plants." not that fish was good meat in her opinion, it was so salty yet also bland, and also just generally had less meat in her eyes; though at least they didn't have fur. 

Charir didn't notice Leviathan's nervousness, usually he probably would have, but he too was busy trying to distract himself from where they were, as he felt dread trying to climb up his spine. He acknowledged that he had Ruby to protect him now, and he did trust that she would do that, but it didn't change the fact that the homelands to him were a source of suffering and nothing else; his experience being so fresh that his physical wounds had barely finished healing since he left.  

"I suggest trying to rest after you're done eating, it won't be a long travel anymore, but we can't properly rest until we either make it through the barrier, or in the worst case, make it back here." "It is also good to let the food go down a bit, as I have a feeling you may find it hard to keep it in otherwise." it was a very matter-of-fact statement, and was true; While some details may have been slightly exaggerated by Ruby, the sight of death was not, the homelands were full of signs of the lives lost, and there was no route they could take to avoid it; And since they would take the route going through the territories of the younger dragons, naturally their age group would be common in those remains. "If there's anything you want to ask, or otherwise talk about, now would be the time." 

Meanwhile Charir, who at this point had had a good amount for crabs to eat, laid down nearby, looking towards the sea as he did, he was exhausted, so it wasn't hard for him to rest, and after a while, fall asleep. 

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

"Actually we have never met the drone." Sheska mentioned "We were simply told that he was there, and that he's very protective." "We would actually be fine just talking with him too, we'd just like to make sure Onache hears what we believe she should know." "She can always track us down if she wants further interaction with us." They didn't know much about changelings, so they didn't have much to comment on the relationship of Onache and the drone; Based on the closest thing they could think of, insects, and on what Onache had told, and shown to them, it could just been undying loyalty, or family type of deal, or romance, they didn't know, and frankly, it wasn't any of their business to speculate. 

"Yes, him exactly." Sheska stated "We don't have any problems with him specifically, but the problem is mainly the 'either' part." "We were given more weapons than we could realistically wield, and we rather not carry them around town from place to place where he may or may not be." "Especially since as the only local guard, you never know when he needs to be somewhere else." Trox would join the answer when he came back down "We mainly want to get rid of these so that guards don't come asking for them later, so a place where we know for sure there's a guard, like the hospital, is a good place for that." "We know that walking into the hospital with a pile of weapons will probably get us some weird looks and few questions, but, we no doubt are already the topic of several whispers around town." 

 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-10-20 at 4:03 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Try telling that to the elders and see if they listen. They do not know your Mother, and they did not see what happened. As far as they are concerned, you fought back, and Solasan is not around now; Ghilan is in his spot as elder. That is as good enough as removing the former elder from his post and enough for the other elders to summon Ghilan for questioning.”

“Omen is right about asking if the other elders knew what Solasan did. They should know that the real one was long gone and a fake was running the village.”

“And how will you prove that? Will you go around looking for a long-decayed elder and dig up what is left of him for proof?”

“Xin’s family was threatened by Solasan, and he’s coming with us. His word will carry weight with the elders.”

“You better have more than just his word. Unless you know of other folks in this village who were threatened or saw what happened, one longma’s word might not be enough.” 

"I only know what I have been told, and what I saw when Mother send him away. I do not think that is useful."

In some ways, it could even be detrimental. The villagers seemingly knew enough to think she were okay to be there, but she didn't have any idea, beyond just what she had been told. She believed it, since it were Sen and Lin who told her, but if the elders asked her if she could personally vouch that these things had happened, she would have to say no. The memories of the event were simply not there, and she could not say with certainty that she hadn't just been told a story.

Yet she were to be honest. She had a few things she were not meant to talk about, but beyond that, there were little reason for her to not simply be honest, as she always were. Lest they did something that made her not want to answer them, that would be the approach, and things such as this could be an issue, as she were not a usable eye witness. Not that they'd believe her in the first place likely, as she were an outsider, and they likely didn't enjoy even having to acknowledge her existence, in their home.

It were not going to get easier, if the Evergrown were introduced into things too, but there weren't a guarantee that there were even anyone here. Yet if there were, who knew how they'd act, by being told about this presence in what they once thought was only their home.

On 2024-10-20 at 4:03 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Honestly, do not let me stop you from trying to look, however way you will go about it. Just so we are clear, path going west of the village is where the travelers were coming from, and if I can guess where you are going soon, that is where you will pass as well.”

“You know where we are going?”

“My guess is Shii Cao’yuan. That is where the important gatherings happen so that place makes sense to me. You might not have enough time to investigate unless you get lucky and run into one of those Evergrown. If you do happen to see or meet one, let me know, all right? That is surely going to make you the most interesting someone in this village, Omen.”

"The others will need to sleep eventually, yes? I do not, so I just wait for them to sleep, and go.

If you want me to tell you right away, I will need your scent, so I can open a gate. Can I sniff you?"

She had been told to ask for permission, and for the most part had done so. That had so far not included their grandfather, but that could change now, if he allowed it. It would allow her to know where he were at all times though, if she focused, but that also meant she could open a direct gate. If not, she'd just go to the nearest place she knew around it, and then walk over there to tell him. Which considering it was night, might cause a combined issue of her being out and around after curfew, and him sleeping.

"I can also just tell Lin, and she will decide what we do? She does not sleep either anymore, so she will be awake."

She might be meditating, or reading a good book though. Omen couldn't tell, but if not, she could go there and talk to her, with anything she found. Might be it wouldn't be important though. Could be that it were a clue, to potential visitors to the forest.

On 2024-10-20 at 4:03 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“That is true. And I know for sure my fellows are going to have to see these weather machines one day.”

“Controlling the weather… I never thought I’d see the day something like that becomes reality. Nature’s fury, now leashed. It must be nice to not worry about severe storms. Or am I mistaken and those are still naturally occurring?”

Scriniarii interjected, the thought crossing his mind. If the weather was now under control, then has that eliminated naturally occurring storms? Or is there a certain point where the pegasi allow the weather to simply be, no control required? Even then, one must wonder if the pegasi allow powerful storms to exist and if so, their reasoning behind it. It might not be a pretty answer.

"It is more correct to say that they keep the weather in line, for the most part. Rain, snow, hail- Even when it isn't wanted, we still get that, as it isn't considered bad, and barring special cases, natural weather, that's no reason to get involved with. Hurricanes and such they do their outmost to stop though, and there is certainly nowhere near as many as there once were. Were a time when Equestria couldn't go for too long without some intense weather, and back then, all one could do were to try and huddle up in your shelters, and ride it out, then rebuild after.

The weather machine helpeda great deal with lessening the frequency, but every once again, we do still get catastrophic weather. A rarity thankfully, with the last I know of, being a hurricane three years ago, that hit the western part of Equestria. The pegasi and unicorns from both the weather service and the Coastal Guard worked together to lessen the severity, but there were still quite a few villages that got hit at the time. Not as bad as the earthquake six years ago, or the tidal wave three years prior to that though.

Hm, yes. I think it is not so much that nature is a dog that Equestria have leashed, but more of a feral beast, that pulls on the chain around its neck."

Things were better than they were, a few centuries ago, that much were certain, but they were still not free from bad weather at times. Though he couldn't give specifics on how it worked. Trade secrets and all that, though they could perhaps one day get a tour of the area that had the more general public knowledge, and some of their old tech on display. It fascinated certain tourists, and it didn't give things away, so they had made a little tour of it, to get a slice of that tourists money for themselves too. Which were fair enough. They were funded by the government, but some spending cash for unofficial things didn't hurt.

On 2024-10-20 at 4:03 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“The way you described its behavior, I am inclined to believe what we have here is not a curse. What if we are looking at this the wrong way and coming to the conclusion that it is cursed? Perhaps it could be a ravenous mimic masquerading as a necklace.” 

“Erratic flight, attacking visitors…. Perhaps its creators intended it to be such. Still, maybe there is something we can do to make sure we know what we are dealing with. We will test by aggravating this necklace first by using little bolts of magic.” 

Vates didn’t want to start things off too quickly, not when they could misdiagnose the problem. With the necklace now surrounded by a protection barrier, they could start by establishing what it was they were dealing with. Magus conjured a small bolt of energy and fired it right at the necklace to see how it would react. Rusty and Mystril won’t have to worry about damage though. The bolt of energy would not leave a mark, sort of like how rubber flicked against a wall; it will bounce off, leaving the object no worse for wear. If the necklace came to life again, then they could better study it up close and in safety.

"A mimic? Oh my, I haven't seen one of those before, far as I am aware at least."

"They're very varied, so I dunno... Could be? We might have a different problem if that is, since we don't know what kind."

"You've... Seen several?"

"Through my uncle. He fought a few. Saved another. They're not all just ravenous beasts you know. Some of them can be relatively benign."

She hadn't thought this to be one, as it wasn't your standard version, but the thought had barely settled in her mind, before they began to poke it, and she saw a reaction: It twitched.

Were it just the stone body that seemed to move, then that would have been that, but no, she saw it shift around, as if the stone form wasn't completely settled for a moment, before it opened its eyes up. One flickered green briefly, before it went red, and it looked up towards the gathered beings, unaware of who had just poked at it, but all the same, would open its mouth and screech at them. The mouth opening further than it should have been possible, just as when it had tried to eat the guest's leg. Yet it's movements were slow, and the screech weak, and it would try to take flight and throw itself at Mystril, though the barrier kept it well in check, and it fell back, flapping down to the ground.

Rusty flinched, as he saw this, though Mystril would instead look at the seemingly confused creature with pity.

"Poor thing must be starving. No wonder it went after the guest. I'll go get something for it to eat."

"It just tried to attack you."

"Yes, and poorly at that, whilst sticking to this form. It's either a young one, or it's very famished. Either way, I wasn't raised to be cruel. I'm gonna get something. Please just keep it there, and try not to hurt it."

She'd wander off, whilst Rusty let out a sigh.

"Sometimes I don't know what to think of her.

What do you think? It sounds as if you have some expertise with mimics. They're not venomous... Right?"

Whilst they talked, it would wander around it's *enclosure* and try to crawl through the barrier at various points, turning around and trying elsewhere every time that it failed. It even tried biting the barrier, or claw it with its feet, but likely to no avail. This was quite the surprise find, but it seemed if not harmless, than at least too weak to be a current issue.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-10-21 at 12:51 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

As they were done, Solar would lead Magma out of the room as he responded, grabbing a box with ready paperwork labelled 'Archive' "I'm flexible on your presence as long as work is done, with exception being times when I may specifically request you to be here for reason or another, the only set time I ask is in the morning, so that you can process anything that may have made its way to the mail box." "At the same time, if there's ever times when there's simply nothing to do, I do not expect you to stay in just for sake of staying." 

"We'll start with what will become a very familiar place for you, the archive." He lead her through the hallways to a door that looked like every other door, with a small sign above the mail slot labeled 'archive' "If you have only few things with you, they can be dropped into the mail slot, which will only open if you have your card with you, though just having it present is enough." "However, in cases like this, where we have lot of material at once ,it is preferable to drop it off to the staff." He opened the door "The door, like the mail slot, needs the card to be with you to open, but it is 24/7." "The night staff do tend to be bit more uptight, so I prefer waiting until the morning."

"If I manage to eventually develop a social life, so that I can't be ready at all hours of the day, I'm sure to let you know, sir."

Her voice were a little dry in its delivery, as she said this. Truth be told, she'd like to have other things in her life than work, but at this point in her life, that mostly just boiled down to her studying herself, and finding out what she could of elementals via it. As well as figuring out her limits, her triggers, and practicing meditation. A little foolish for her taste historically, she found that it served a purpose well, to help her sharpen her mind, and be more calm and relaxed. Made her feel a little foolish for how judgmental she had been.

"In all seriousness, I do not currently have other things to do, except studying myself to learn more of my current status, and make sure that I am not deteriorating. Which so far, there haven't been any sign of, I might add.

My main point being that as it stands, I have little else to really do than work, so do not be surprised if you see me more than you might expect, for at least the first stretch of time. Worry not, I shall keep myself occupied. I will soon have potential candidate files to look over, as an example."

She'd follow as he showed her the archive, which true enough, she expected would be one of her more frequently visited places here. The system made good sense too. Why waste their time, lest she had enough material with her, that it did not fit the convenient mail slot? It were more efficient, and would likely be the norm, after this initial bundle of files had been handled.

On 2024-10-21 at 12:51 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

He would then lead her in to what was very unassuming room, with a counter going wall from wall with two service points, one for giving things into the archive, and one for taking things out. Solar would then introduce Magma to the staff member, who wrote something down, and he would then explain the simple process step by step to Magma. In short, as they had several different things at once, they had to fill a paper where they summarized what they dropped off, not in detail, but by category, and sign it. 

After this was done and it was time to move on, now with an empty box, Solar would ask if Magma had questions or comments before they continued on. 

Magma would nod her head, and greet the staff member briefly, before listening to the instructions. Did not currently seem the sort who'd be up for a chat at random. Work ethics most likely, which she could respect.

"Currently I do not have questions. The system is well explained, and functional, so there's not anything to question or point hooves at. I'm ready to proceed."

She'd nod towards the staff member, before being ready to gone on her way. Now quite a bit lighter, with all the paperwork now handled. It honestly felt rather good, to have things done, approved, and filed right. It gave a good deal of system and normalcy back to her life. She'd cry with joy, but she didn't want to melt anything in here. It would not put her and the staff on good terms, and considering they had to handle the paperwork she had finished, it were likely best if she were, if not on friendly terms, then at the very least on neutral hoofing.

On 2024-10-21 at 12:51 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I personally just don't get the point of spice." Ruby stated as she cut a piece out of the shark, the smaller creatures she could shallow whole or crush in her mouth, but the bones of the shark were bit too big for pleasant meal "Why ruin perfectly good meat with plants." not that fish was good meat in her opinion, it was so salty yet also bland, and also just generally had less meat in her eyes; though at least they didn't have fur.

"To add flavor, of course. SOme food is positively bland, unless you cook it right. Shark meat for instance. It's good, but not with a lot of taste to it. Now add some spice so it gives a good burn on the way down, with some nice aftertaste? Now we're talking. Besides, spice doesn't just mean plants. You can mix several kinds of meat, and infuse some wine, or boil it in pig's fat, among other things.

Trust me, I can sort out some shark another time, mix it up good, and add some taste to counter the bitterness it sometimes have, and you'll make you change your mind. Or you'll ridicule me. Either way, I'm gonna make it, and see what you two think of it. Maybe some surf and turf is the right thing actually... I'll think it over."

Been a while since she had something that was boiled in hog fat actually. The fat itself she weren't too interested in, but it worked to add a nice flavor, and the meat was excellent.

Darn it, now she wanted proper, roasted hog. That had to go on the backburner, until they came back. A nice little break from fish, which she did like, but variety were good. It made dinner less tedious, and you lost out on so many nice flavors, by keeping a closed mind. Sometimes that attitude worked better than others, but at least then she learned there were some tastes she just couldn't stand.

On 2024-10-21 at 12:51 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I suggest trying to rest after you're done eating, it won't be a long travel anymore, but we can't properly rest until we either make it through the barrier, or in the worst case, make it back here." "It is also good to let the food go down a bit, as I have a feeling you may find it hard to keep it in otherwise." it was a very matter-of-fact statement, and was true; While some details may have been slightly exaggerated by Ruby, the sight of death was not, the homelands were full of signs of the lives lost, and there was no route they could take to avoid it; And since they would take the route going through the territories of the younger dragons, naturally their age group would be common in those remains. "If there's anything you want to ask, or otherwise talk about, now would be the time." 

Meanwhile Charir, who at this point had had a good amount for crabs to eat, laid down nearby, looking towards the sea as he did, he was exhausted, so it wasn't hard for him to rest, and after a while, fall asleep. 

"I... Sorta been wondering... *sigh*"

She'd lower the bit of fish she still had left, and shook her head. Questions starting and failing to come out of her mouth, as she ran into several times where she realized that she really didn't want to know the answer.

"Honestly? I think it's best that I don't ask more about that place. The more I hear, the worse it gets, and I'm already fighting nerves here, y'know? Or well, maybe you don't, but this place man. It gives me the heebie-jeebies just looking at it, knowing what I've been told so far."

She'd look over to see Charir lay down for a rest, and chuckled ever so slightly, a bit of joy staying with her, as she saw the *little* guy all tucked out from dinner.

"But I'll keep it together, or at least try my darndest. Charir needs us to look tough for this, so he feels safer, yeah? Can't imagine what being back here is making him feel...

Actually, that's one thing I could ask. How're you handling this? I can't tell from your expression, but there outa be something that goes through your head, going back here. You worried there's gonna be an unwelcome family reunion, for instance?"

That would probably be one of the worst encounters they could have. It would do a number on Charir's mind, just seeing her in the first place, and she doubted thar Ruby would keep her cool fully, being face to face with her. She weren't either. She had some choice words, that were likely best delivered via lightning bolt, lest she would get a claw through the face as a response.

...Actually, considering Charir's ability, she might have some resistance to electricity too. She'd be better off with ice, or blinding her, and getting out of there. Monster that she sounded like, Leviathan really didn't want to get into a life or death battle with her friends mom. Not just because she didn't want to kill another dragon, but also because it would be really awkward.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Oh, there's talks alright, but they're mostly positive. Can't please everypony, even though you helped us against an attack, I suppose. But you'll be given overall leeway, unless you start to stab somepony. Still, good to have me along, since they know I'm working at the hospital. It'll be reassuring for some.

Well, best we gather everything up that we need to go with then. No time like right now, yeah?"

She kinda got their point, in that they didn't want to risk chasing after Stargazer, trying to find exactly where he were. It could get annoying, and would perhaps draws eyes in the long run. Mattered little she supposed. The hospital were a good spot for him and the other guards to come pick up stuff too if it were. They'd just receive it, then send him a message, as well as to the school, where two other guards worked as instructors for some classes for the time being.

When they were ready, she'd go with them to the hospital, where they could deliver the weapons without any issues.

If they went then to see Onache, they'd hear a low voice, slithering out from under the door. A male voice, speaking likely at normal volume in there.

"-ill be okay. I'm here... I'll always be here..."

The voice were soothing in nature, and if they opened the door... Well, they'd certainly see something. Onache laying in bed, on her stomach head down a donut pillow, with a bucket underneath, in case more would leave her being. She didn't seem awake, but she wasn't so much the primary thing to witness in here. That would be the other one. Her drone, who were a reformed changeling, like she were.

Unlike her however, he stood taller, on two legs, wearing tattered pants. Despite the long tail, mane-like hair growing at his chest and back area, antenna and weird colors, he had the base form of a human. Changed definitely, with hands ending in pointy fingers, wings and so forth, but by the looks of things, at least somewhat human. Yet when he saw them, the light green changeling eyes falling on them, he got engulfed in blueish-green flames, and where he had sat a human of sorts before, now stood a pony.

He'd glare at them briefly, before seeing the nurse, though she too would catch some stink eye.

"You didn't see that."

"Dude! What the hay was that?"

Neon was surprised to say the least. Positively shocked in fact, but not afraid. He could taste it in the air. She seemed just genuinely surprised. It were... Not ideal, but it wasn't as if he could erase her memories. Nor that of the kobolds she were wandering around with. Though these were certainly different, from those that he'd seen before.

"The shadow of a weakling.

You two. Are you the ones who brought my queen here?"

He'd look towards the kobolds. He were told of them, when he asked in to what had happened to Onache, and he'd assume these two were the ones, but he did not want to embarrass himself, by thanking the wrong ones.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
Solar would proceed, their next stop being a sort of a combination of a mail room and and an office; Solar would explain that it was where everything relating to employment was dealt with, and also where any material heading outside the headquarters, or coming from outside in, would go through. He again would wait for any potential question before proceeding. 

They would then go see the locations of the offices for the other guard branches and potential other individuals Magma would most likely need to interact with; though Solar would explain that for those Magma's clearance wasn't high enough to just walk on in, so if for reason or another leaving the documents in the mail slot wasn't an option, she'd need to knock and wait for someone, most likely the secretary, to let her in.  

If there was no questions, he'd then show Magma things like the fire exits, what to do and where to go in case of an attack, and other practical things like that, ending the showcase with the break rooms, there being one for Civilian staff and the military staff each, Magma being the former. He would then start heading back toward their office. 

----------

While Ruby decided to not comment on it further, it wasn't hard to tell Ruby wasn't particularly convinced by Leviathan's response, though then again, she always looked unimpressed, so who knew what she actually thought about it. Though she did agree that shark was quite tasteless, but one factor to it was that non-homeland meat in general tented to be weaker in taste for her, mainly because homelands meat was so bitter in taste, it wasn't better by any means, as Ruby preferred the metallic taste of blood over bitterness of any kind, but 100 years of that does dull one's sense of taste a bit. 

 

For Leviathan's question, Ruby swallowed some food before turning her head towards the mainland "I acknowledge the risk that is our mother. If she is still alive, and learns that we have returned, she no doubt wishes to finish what she started." her tone was colder than usual "I also have no illusions of my own abilities, she will kill me if I try to fight her." "But I am not worried, because as much as her size is a threat, it is also a weakness, she is slower, and the mountains provide plenty of spaces too small for her." it probably wasn't a surprise that Ruby defaulted to the physical threat posed rather than the mental side of things. 

"For this return in general, my feelings are different than I expected." She then admitted in thoughtful manner, looking back towards Leviathan "I feel...conflicted." "The Homelands are the place of my greatest memories, and my worst nightmares. It is where I rose to the top, where I dominated, yet it is also the site of my greatest failure, a constant reminder of how far I've fallen." as she said the last part, Ruby pulled her front leg into a fist, sinking her claws into the sand, before looking towards the sky "But in the end, even with how much I despise it, it is the only place where I have ever felt like home." 

--------

The kobolds would in fact ask for Onache, and would proceed to the room, though, not being total savages, they would knock before opening the door, so that they wouldn't spook whoever was in there, or Onache, since they couldn't be sure if she was awake or not.

If regardless of knocking, they ended up seeing the drone's...particular appearance, they didn't comment on it, because not only were they not familiar with humans in any way; though they knew plenty of other bipedal creatures; they also weren't that familiar with changelings still, so if it weren't for the reactions of Neon and the Drone himself, they would have assumed it was perfectly normal for changelings. It would have also been rude to comment on it, as the creature clearly didn't want to talk about it; but they made a mental note about it, as they were curious, especially after his response to Neon. 

 

"Two of them yes, our friend and her partner also helped." Sheska responded, to which Trox continued "And you are the lone drone Onache mentioned?" it was pretty obvious, but Trox hoped that it worked as a way to communicate that Onache had trusted them enough to mention him, specifically that he was the only drone. Their general demeanor was friendly and respectful, as was fit for the situation, they were used to this type of thing after all, being a healer and her brother, they both knew how to behave. "It's nice to finally meet you, be it in such regrettable circumstances." Sheska glanced at Onache in sympathetic manner, they may have not been 'friends' yet, but she still didn't like seeing her in such a state, not to mention that she partially blamed herself for it; not only should she have been able to stop it from happening, but the only reason it happened was because Onache had traveled with them in the first place. 

 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-10-24 at 4:45 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I only know what I have been told, and what I saw when Mother send him away. I do not think that is useful."

In some ways, it could even be detrimental. The villagers seemingly knew enough to think she were okay to be there, but she didn't have any idea, beyond just what she had been told. She believed it, since it were Sen and Lin who told her, but if the elders asked her if she could personally vouch that these things had happened, she would have to say no. The memories of the event were simply not there, and she could not say with certainty that she hadn't just been told a story.

“I only advise caution. The same goes for you too, Sen and Lin. Speak out of turn, say too much, and you may bring unwanted attention and questioning to yourselves. If what you will speak about does more harm for your case, it will be better to say nothing.”

“And if we are put on the spot? What if the elders ask us things that will put us in a bad light and demand answers?”

“Then it will be better to leave it to Elder Ghilan. He sounds like the type to know a thing or two about navigating the other elders. Turn to him for guidance, even if he looks inexperienced. You are all gathered together, and it will serve you all well to work together.”

Zo wouldn’t admit it, but he was lacking in knowledge about this matter. No one but the elders attended their gatherings, and what goes on beyond their closed walls is only for them. However, some platitudes, however empty they may be, could still prove true for the siblings and Omen. He had an inkling that the other elders would not be convinced by the word of an outsider. Yet, the word of an elder may still carry some more weight, maybe just enough to shift things toward a favorable result. 

That and honesty can go far in this situation. Establishing one’s self as trustworthy where there is no reason to find trust is just as much of a play as being logically convincing. There are some options now on the table, but a wrong word can just as easily take those options away.

On 2024-10-24 at 4:45 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"The others will need to sleep eventually, yes? I do not, so I just wait for them to sleep, and go.

If you want me to tell you right away, I will need your scent, so I can open a gate. Can I sniff you?"

She had been told to ask for permission, and for the most part had done so. That had so far not included their grandfather, but that could change now, if he allowed it. It would allow her to know where he were at all times though, if she focused, but that also meant she could open a direct gate. If not, she'd just go to the nearest place she knew around it, and then walk over there to tell him. Which considering it was night, might cause a combined issue of her being out and around after curfew, and him sleeping.

"I can also just tell Lin, and she will decide what we do? She does not sleep either anymore, so she will be awake."

The elderly longma took a step back from hearing Omen’s request. Sniffing him and getting his scent? An odd thing to say, but it sounded harmless. He then looked to Sen and Lin, who gave him a reassuring nod that it was safe.

“I suppose there is no harm in getting my scent. And, you know, there is no need to rush in telling me if you found something. If anything should be a priority, the one you need to tell is Ghilan, just not around the time when everyone should be sleeping. No one wants to be disturbed from their rest; even if you don’t need it, others do.”

“He’s right. We may not need sleep, but it’s rude to wake someone up if there is no good reason to do so. If it can wait until morning, it’s better to wait until then. And there is always the option to just talk about it among ourselves and figure out the best way to proceed.”

“Just one thing, Omen. I am getting on in age, and I do not want to get scared to an early grave. Please take it easy and try not to come around so suddenly, all right?”

Grandfather Zo chuckled at the thought of getting too scared, though he did mean it. Even if Omen did come around with sudden news, perhaps doing so without suddenly opening a gate near him. The risks to health were present, and while he possibly still had some years left in him, he wasn’t in a rush to check out of life so soon. That is especially so if there are Evegrown in the forest. It will be quite the revelation to learn they weren’t alone despite their isolationism.

On 2024-10-24 at 4:45 AM, Blitz Boom said:

The weather machine helpeda great deal with lessening the frequency, but every once again, we do still get catastrophic weather. A rarity thankfully, with the last I know of, being a hurricane three years ago, that hit the western part of Equestria. The pegasi and unicorns from both the weather service and the Coastal Guard worked together to lessen the severity, but there were still quite a few villages that got hit at the time. Not as bad as the earthquake six years ago, or the tidal wave three years prior to that though.

Hm, yes. I think it is not so much that nature is a dog that Equestria have leashed, but more of a feral beast, that pulls on the chain around its neck."

“That must be a nice feeling, not having to worry about the weather. Storms would ravage coastal settlements, leaving many places flooded and lives upended. It would take months to reestablish a sense of order and normalcy only for it to start once more when the next disaster comes.”

“A vicious cycle… Some would find a sense of resiliency in it, but I do not believe that should be something to be proud of. Back then, many would find themselves in the temple to ask for a blessing from Aquans to be spared from the devastation. Whether their prayers were heard....”

Vates didn’t continue further, mostly to spare some of the grisly details from her experiences in the temple. However, her dejected look betrayed her silence and attempts to hide information. Some did try to dull the storm’s devastation through prayer. Sometimes, the storms weakened and things didn’t turn out too bad. Other times, it felt like Aquans didn’t listen, and for some, that led to their faith being shaken. By then, there is only so much the diviners can do to offer comfort before their words would ring as hollow as their prayers.

On 2024-10-24 at 4:45 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Poor thing must be starving. No wonder it went after the guest. I'll go get something for it to eat."

"It just tried to attack you."

"Yes, and poorly at that, whilst sticking to this form. It's either a young one, or it's very famished. Either way, I wasn't raised to be cruel. I'm gonna get something. Please just keep it there, and try not to hurt it."

She'd wander off, whilst Rusty let out a sigh.

"Sometimes I don't know what to think of her.

What do you think? It sounds as if you have some expertise with mimics. They're not venomous... Right?"

“A mimic… dangerous when loose but this one invites pity? This is unexpected indeed.”

“I didn’t think it would be a mimic; I just gave an educated guess, but this one turned out to be right.”

The golems approached the barrier to examine the creature further. Though the others looked on and attempted to form possible reasons or hypotheses for its creation, one has to wonder if this was an artificial construct or if there are naturally occurring instances of this creature. If it was the former, who created it, and for what purpose? For the moment, Magus only looked on, holding the protective barrier up. There wouldn’t be any tests on this creature for the moment, but he considered resuming them when Mystril returns. 

As for Vates, she stepped away, staying closer to Rusty for now to talk things over with him. The surprise that she was right was still setting in. These were rare creatures, and from what little is known to the golems, it may not even be enough information. Still, it was worth sharing some known details to narrow down what kind of mimic they had. Mystril already said as much.

“It is difficult to say with this one. Hyracotherians’ experiences with mimics mostly originate from larger ones disguising themselves as chests or large trunks. Those have large, razor-sharp teeth, and they hide their limbs well. When they stand, they tower over anyone who encounters them, and they possess unnatural strength and speed despite their lanky legs. They aren’t venomous, or at least that is true for the kind of mimic that I described. This one doesn’t seem to have the identifying traits of the mimics familiar to the Hyracotherians. Mystril may be more knowledgeable about mimics than us, I’m afraid, but she is empathetic towards this one. Let’s see what we can learn; maybe there won’t be a reason to fear the mimic in our midst.”

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-10-26 at 3:59 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I only advise caution. The same goes for you too, Sen and Lin. Speak out of turn, say too much, and you may bring unwanted attention and questioning to yourselves. If what you will speak about does more harm for your case, it will be better to say nothing.”

“And if we are put on the spot? What if the elders ask us things that will put us in a bad light and demand answers?”

“Then it will be better to leave it to Elder Ghilan. He sounds like the type to know a thing or two about navigating the other elders. Turn to him for guidance, even if he looks inexperienced. You are all gathered together, and it will serve you all well to work together.”

"I do not know what would be bad with the elders, except what Rosa told me: Do not speak my masters name, and do not open gates, unless I am asked to. It sounds like I should not say what Mother did to Salosan too, unless I am told to by Sen, Lin, or Ghilan?"

She'd tilt her head, whilst her unblinking gaze remained on the elderly longma.

It were goin to be a problem, if they had to deal with subtlety, as Omen did not grasp that. If she were asked questions, she would answer them, unless she did not want to answer the one in question, or she had been told by those she believed in, to not speak of it. Having to guess on what were good, what were bad- Beyond a few easily notable one, like Discord's name, and now perhaps what happened to Salosan, it were not easy for her to know what were best kept to herself, and what were meant to be said. And it would look weird if she looked at Ghilan every time, before she answered a question.

They might want to go over typical questions they would probably get, before it came to the meeting itself, so that she would have some context for what she were supposed to do with things. Or they might think it best that she were as honest as she were, as at least on some level, honesty was important, and the elders would likely not find her more tolerable, if they suspected her of lying to them.

On 2024-10-26 at 3:59 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I suppose there is no harm in getting my scent. And, you know, there is no need to rush in telling me if you found something. If anything should be a priority, the one you need to tell is Ghilan, just not around the time when everyone should be sleeping. No one wants to be disturbed from their rest; even if you don’t need it, others do.”

“He’s right. We may not need sleep, but it’s rude to wake someone up if there is no good reason to do so. If it can wait until morning, it’s better to wait until then. And there is always the option to just talk about it among ourselves and figure out the best way to proceed.”

“Just one thing, Omen. I am getting on in age, and I do not want to get scared to an early grave. Please take it easy and try not to come around so suddenly, all right?”

Omen would not answer at first, but just stretch her head forward, getting within a hoof's width of Zo, and then sniffing the air a few times. Completely, utterly harmless, and about as tame of an experience as one could hope for Fairly unimpressive looking in fact, though the following words, as she pulled her head back, and looked him in the eyes, might be somewhat ominous to him.

"I have your scent. Long as you are alive, I can always find you.

And I will try to open a gate somewhere near, but not right at you, if I have to find you."

It might end up with her going into a closet, or up on the roof. Potentially sticking her head out of a bucket, and having to try again, but she'd figure it out. Though she did look around now, for surfaces that would be good to keep in mind, if she had to for instance stand just outside, or just past the door. Just outside the door would probably be the best one, yes? She could knock on the door, in case he were in there, and if he did not move at all, she'd know that he were probably sleeping. She could wait in that case.

"I can try and see if I can be behind doors, and knock? That would be less scary? I do not understand what it is like, being scared. I think those who jump when I show up sometimes, are perhaps scared? Or is that surprised?"

It were a bit odd to ask perhaps, but Omen did not want to be a trouble for Zo, so she'd try to ask how she could work with him the best here. Sen and Lin wouldn't like it if she sent him to a grave, so it were important, since they were family, and those who went to a grave, very rarely came back from it. She knew, she had stared at several for years on end, with nothing happening the vast majority of times. Though she did help one out that had been accidentally buried alive once, and seen a few zombies. Those were strange times.

On 2024-10-26 at 3:59 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“That must be a nice feeling, not having to worry about the weather. Storms would ravage coastal settlements, leaving many places flooded and lives upended. It would take months to reestablish a sense of order and normalcy only for it to start once more when the next disaster comes.”

“A vicious cycle… Some would find a sense of resiliency in it, but I do not believe that should be something to be proud of. Back then, many would find themselves in the temple to ask for a blessing from Aquans to be spared from the devastation. Whether their prayers were heard....”

"It sounds as if you've lived through several episodes of extreme weather? You have my condolences. I've seen just a fragment of how bad things could be, and that were after it were dampened. Were it not for historical documents that showed what things were like before, I could scarcely imagine what it might be. And even then, reading and seeing carvings, surely cant compare with having to actually be there. The fear, the loss... I couldn't imagine how bad it must have been for those of your kin, that did not have their prayers answered."

To rely on a fickle embodiment like Aquans to be spared from horrendous weather, sounded rather horrendous. Another example of why the weather machine were so important, as here in Equestria, they did not even have higher beings like that to pray to for salvation. The princesses were the closest thing, but beyond them, Equestria had never been host to gods. Not in any found record at the least.

The reliability of the machine saved them from a lot of things, but to some extend, Rusty did get the impression that many simply took it for granted, and didn't think of what life might be without it. What he heard now, were speaks of some who did know, because they had been through it, and knew how bad it could be, and what little you could do beyond praying, if nature's wrath came roaring towards you.

On 2024-10-26 at 3:59 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It is difficult to say with this one. Hyracotherians’ experiences with mimics mostly originate from larger ones disguising themselves as chests or large trunks. Those have large, razor-sharp teeth, and they hide their limbs well. When they stand, they tower over anyone who encounters them, and they possess unnatural strength and speed despite their lanky legs. They aren’t venomous, or at least that is true for the kind of mimic that I described. This one doesn’t seem to have the identifying traits of the mimics familiar to the Hyracotherians. Mystril may be more knowledgeable about mimics than us, I’m afraid, but she is empathetic towards this one. Let’s see what we can learn; maybe there won’t be a reason to fear the mimic in our midst.”

"I know very little of them myself, I must admit. Only realy the stories of those that you know too, that hides like chests, or trunks, to lure in careless adventurers to snack on. Never heard of them outside of the chests though. It sounds... Disturbing.

This isn't like those, and if you aren't sure either, we may have to rely on her expertise. Though how she have experience with those things, I haven't a clue. Perhaps this uncle of hers, were a monster wrangler or adventurer of some kind? Perhaps it's prudent to ask at this point."

He'd look at the small mimic, that had at this point seemingly stopped trying to escape, and were pretending to be a small statue again. Likely it were waiting for the shield to drop, so it had a chance to try and escape, and it were good at pretending. If they hadn't seen differently, who would have expected it to move around like it did? Though it did raise the question on if it had replaced what were originally there, or added itself to the box things, and gotten shipped along accidentally.

It wouldn't be long before Mystril returned, carrying a sandwich in her beak. A sizable one, that seemed to contain some lettuce, mayo, a whole fish, and were wrapped in whole-wheat bread. Typical griffon lunch.

"I'm back. Is it still here?"

As it were, she'd take her sandwich, break off half, and with a swift strike, slice one half to smaller pieces, and move towards the barrier.

"Lower it a little please? I just need a second."

If they did, the mimic would start to stir, the moment it noticed a hole, but as the sandwich pieces would be stopped down, it would halt, then rise up, and go around to the various pieces, licking a few, before beginning to munch down. Starting with the smallest pieces of fish it could get to, but taking anything it could get hold of, long as the pieces weren't too big. It would try and use its teeth to tear those to smaller bits.

"Not completely carnivorous, that's good. Seems to know how to hide and hunt alone, but isn't used to our climate... I'd venture this is a variation of a Zhil'bahrgul. Or Pest Mimic, in layman terms."

"Pest?! Oh dear, we'll need to contact the hospital right away, and-"

He were getting slightly panicked, thinking of what it meant. A creature that could spread diseases, were what came to mind, as he knew several languages, and went to the worst, possible conclusion, before Mystril interrupted him.

"Pest as in rodents and such. Their primary food is rats, caterpillars, that sort of thing. They also need some plant matter, which is what the lettuce is for. I wanted to make sure if this was a fully carnivorous ones, because those tend to be the trouble makers.

My uncle began reading up on the various kinds, after the first he ran into. Taught me a few things on what to look out for, just in case. And if I'm right on what kind this is, they're pretty harmless to creatures our size, but they usually live in very different areas, and often with more humid climates. No wonder it wobbled around all disoriented, when it came here. It were probably hatched close to where the other things that were found, and were packaged up accidentally when it slept. The trip must have tired it out, when it woke up and spend energy trying to escape. And when it did wake up, it were famished, confused and surrounded by nothing it's ever known before. Poor thing."

"Need I remind you that it tried to eat somepony?"

"And you never stuffed random things into your mouth, when you were a foal, professor?"

"Wait, you say this is a child?"

"I don't know how much bigger they get, but baby mimics after hatching, seem to follow the same basic pattern, which is to uhm... Eat their weaker siblings. They're laid in big clusters so some of them get the chance to scurry along and live, or one just naturally ends up at the top of the food pile, and thus are the strongest. Of the ones who take off, wild beasts tends to eat a fair few, before they get a chance to establish themselves. Those who live, tend to find somewhere nearby, and that's when they stand out. Some goes into chests, or other objects. Some like this, pick a form that they're inspired from by something in the area, and take that over. It probably saw a similar statue and picked that. Pest versions are more active hunters, from what my uncle told me, so they don't hide in chests a lot."

"So it doesn't eat ponies or the like, and keep rodents down. So it is a beneficial one?"

"Sure, long as they're small. But when it gets bigger... Well, even if it doesn't eat us, pets, sheep and such are fair game, so it's a balancing act. Though if it's kept fed and trained well, I don't think it'd be that big of an issue. I need to brush up on the tome he read about these in, so I'd know more. Right now though at least, it'd not dangerous. Just confused, scared, and hungry. Can't blame the poor thing really."

It were still eating, but seemed to have calmed down, and weren't moving around frantically anymore, looking for an exit. It were just eating what had been served.

Mystril would look towards the golems after looking on a few more seconds, wanting to ask them a question.

"It sounds like you dealt with mimics before. The classic ones everyone knows the stories about, yes? Nasty business sometimes. Especially if it keeps the eggs inside its maw. They can look just like coins, I've been told.

If those are the only sort you know, you're probably thinking that... Well, please don't try and kill this one. I'll take responsibility, if anything happens."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

She'd bite note int he various places, but not comment much, until they got to where he talked about the fire escape. At which point she did make a minor joke about it being good to know which way others were gonna run away from her.

She did follow it up by explaining that in case of a fire, she'd try and go in and absorb it. It were best to still call firefighters, but she'd try and help, and were getting better at something that were normally very easy for elementals. As she were still *in training* as it were though, she still made mistakes, and as such she couldn't guarantee success currently. Though in ideal circumstances, she could fight fire with fire. At least to a certain extend.

As they ended in the cafeteria she'd look at the sections, then wonder to herself what might be served here, but didn't press it currently. It wasn't too important, as she didn't have allergies or the like anymore, so new things were simply new things to experience. Barring too strong stimulants, that were.

"Thank you for the tour, sir. It's been enlightening, and welcoming, to know my workplace and coworkers more extensively.

I mean not to intrude on your personal space, but might I ask, do you live nearby? I don't need an address, just wondering if a case of emergency arises and you are not here, how long would it roughly take before you'd be here? Just to give me some idea if it is best to wait, or try to handle things personally instead. Say if this place were suddenly attacked, as an example."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Pretty reasonable look on it. Good or bad, you still grew up here. Much as I personally think this place sucks, I can't fault you for still getting the feeling of home from the place you've lived for most of your life.

All about perspective. You'd probably think my home sucked too, what with all the diamond dogs and howling. But it's where I hatched, and made good memories. Some bad ones too, but I make no illusions about it being comparable to what your lows were like."

Leviathan would wander over, and lean her head on Ruby's leg. To think that her mother were even larger, did make her worried about meeting the dragoness even more though. She might have magic, but being the size of a toothpick were not a comforting thought. Comfort were the point of her leaning like this though. Ruby were her close friend, and she wanted the dragoness to know that she were there for her, and wished her the best. She considered that the absolute bare minimum one should expect, when you were getting close like they were.

Something that she understood were probably not easy for Ruby. She came from a place were it seemed best to be an individual, and not someone that went and relied on others, or even made friends. So them getting chummy, and Charir being with them too, were probably at least on some level, odd and hard to adapt to, for Ruby. Wasn't for Leviathan though. This place they were going though, and what it entailed? That were tough. That was the thing that were going to test her substantially.

"I hope that someday, you'll find a nicer place to think of as home. You deserve a good life, away from others who might potentially kill you, if you're not smarter or stronger than them.

Hopefully your magical neighbors are nicer sorts. *yawn* I guess we'll see soon enough though."

She'd raise her hand, and conjure a few clouds, that would take shape to look like the three of them, wandering towards another cloud, that separated into a half dozen other dragons. Then she made them all smile and do a crude dance, while a smile crept up on her face. It wasn't gonna be a long show, but it felt nice to do in her mind. At the very least it were amusing her, and bringing her spirits up a little.

"It's probably not gonna end up that simple, heh. Wish it did though.

By the way, I appreciate you being honest with me, about how it's like being back here. It's heartwarming that you trust me enough to talk about these sorta things. So full disclosure, I'm well worried how this will go, and if I see your mom, I'll probably let out a very high pitched, undignified sound, in pure fear. My want to be rude to her, for how she treated you both, is drowned out by my immense want to not end up as a toothpick."

She'd be happy talking some more, but if Ruby wanted them to get some energy before they went, she'd take a nap in a moment. For now she were enjoying sharing some thoughts, and leaning against Ruby's big, muscly leg. Or arm, depending on how she were currently positioned.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Yes, I'm the only one who stuck with her in the long term, after Chrysalis took her hive.

My name's Happy Hour, and I'm genuinely, truly thankful for what you, and your friends have done for her."

He'd give a deep bow before both of them, starting with Sheska, before doing the same towards Trox.

"I were told by the ones in town, that you walked around with her some time before she were attacked too? That's good. I've worried how she'd do, when she had to make friendly relations, instead of how she usually does things. But it seems like she made a good first impression, on some genuinely good kobolds. It's a great relief, even if seeing her like this is harrowing to me."

"So.... About what were going on before."

Happy gave a glare to the nurse, and opened his mouth to say something, then seemingly just lost the want to be confrontational about this. Wasn't like she were forgetting what she saw anyway.

"Fine. Yes, I was human. I fell through a tear or something, and ended up near her hive. And yes, she had me converted into a changeling. No it wasn't pleasant, and yes, I am completely, fully loyal to her. Even when the others weren't. A bit of torture doesn't change how much I l- Care for her, and the gift she's given me."

"I heard about converting. That doesn't sound like a gift."

"Magic is. Never had any of that before. I just had my vineyard, in a polluted, magicless world. This is better.

Look, I don't grasp the basics of how I got here, so don't ask, okay? It's some multidimensional stuff. You probably don't believe there is other dimensions anyway, or even what they are. Just... Think many other worlds, in weird layers, and I stumbled into a hole that led between them."

How could they believe it? It was a stupid idea too, right? Someone living in an entirely different world, that you couldn't see or interact with, as it was on the other side of some invisible barrier between here and there. You'd have to know what those were like to know about the layers, and then a lot of belief in someone somehow getting through said layers, and not leave a gaping hole between worlds. It were a pretty weird tale to try and swallow, but he'd swear that it was the truth. He had plenty of memories from his time back in the human world, and then some very vivid ones of what Onache had done to him, after he were found.

He weren't lying, but why bother trying to explain it? No one was gonna believe that mad tale anyway.

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-10-31 at 7:48 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I do not know what would be bad with the elders, except what Rosa told me: Do not speak my masters name, and do not open gates, unless I am asked to. It sounds like I should not say what Mother did to Salosan too, unless I am told to by Sen, Lin, or Ghilan?"

“I think it might be better to ask Elder Ghilan what might be safe to answer. The meeting will be unpredictable, so having some way to make things work in your favor is the best way to go about it. If you are considering it, speaking with him about what the other elders will ask is an option, but do so before you speak with the elders. We already had our debate, which should give you an idea of what some of those questions might be. However, you might want to do so discretely or when no one else is around to overhear you. There is no telling who might be listening in on you, especially if they disagree with Ghilan.”

“And we’ll also be here to help you out when you are put in a difficult spot. If needed, we’ll cover for you if a question is tricky to answer. But, yeah, let’s try to avoid talking about what happened to the last elder unless they keep pressuring us for an answer. We’ll leave that one to Elder Ghilan.”

“If you are lucky, maybe the other elders will not ask you the tough questions about the last elder Solasan.”

It was becoming more evident that being honest was now clashing with winning over the elders. They viewed the latter as their way of getting them to see things in a new way, but that may come at the cost of honesty. And if the elders even catch a whiff of dishonesty, it would look bad on the siblings and Omen, possibly even worse for Ghilan.

The current elder likely did his homework on the other elders when he was new, so he could provide Omen and the siblings with some advice on how to approach their line of questioning. If they could win over a few of them without compromising their subtlety, it could give them a much-needed advantage. Perhaps this could be a hint of political intrigue working on a smaller scale. The situation is different, but some of their key aspects are still present.

On 2024-10-31 at 7:48 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I can try and see if I can be behind doors, and knock? That would be less scary? I do not understand what it is like, being scared. I think those who jump when I show up sometimes, are perhaps scared? Or is that surprised?"

The elderly longma grew more relaxed once Omen got his scent. It was an awkward affair at first, likening it to a curious animal sniffing something new, but this one isn’t an animal at all. Sen told himself that the strangeness would be something they had to get used to, but it was different knowing that even Zo would have to live with it. He may be joking about checking out of life early, but at his age, he may get scared easily.

“Ah, well… you have noticed that the huts are just hollowed structures that we use for different purposes. My workshop here is also my home. Or rather, my home is somewhere in the back. If you happen to come around here or open a gate nearby, just call out to me. It should let me know you are nearby.”

“Knocking is also a good idea. That might be better than popping up suddenly in front of anyone, but there are no doors here in the village, so to speak, Omen. Knocking on walls is an option though.”

“Heh heh… Do you remember some time ago at Rosa’s home? I was sleeping, and you were just sitting in front of me the whole time? When I opened my eyes… you scared me good when I woke up. Had me just about ready to jump out of the bed.”

Sen chuckled as he remembered one notable scenario back then. He may have been genuinely scared when it first happened, but it has become a kind of fond memory for him. At some point, he expected something like it would happen. Lin wished she could have seen it play out, though Grandfather Zo hoped he wouldn’t be on the receiving end of something like that. It was a surprise for sure, but scaring someone as an outcome may not really be his idea of a “surprise.” As long as they were setting some ground rules, he was fine.

On 2024-10-31 at 7:48 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It sounds as if you've lived through several episodes of extreme weather? You have my condolences. I've seen just a fragment of how bad things could be, and that were after it were dampened. Were it not for historical documents that showed what things were like before, I could scarcely imagine what it might be. And even then, reading and seeing carvings, surely cant compare with having to actually be there. The fear, the loss... I couldn't imagine how bad it must have been for those of your kin, that did not have their prayers answered."

“The weather was a fact of life, but with so many having their faith questioned, one can imagine how they began to turn toward other means of coping with natural disasters. I suppose it doesn’t matter anymore, but thank you. In some ways, it is comforting to know there is a solution to the issue arising from severe weather, even if that came from another place and time.”

There was an instance of a whole island being swallowed whole by the sea, the result of a particularly severe wave. It was around the time a volcanic eruption also happened, a bad combination of disasters. Vates once believed that to be a punishment from the elementals for abandoning faith and devotion to the old ways. To some degree, she still believed that to be the case, even when she long since signed up to be part of a project to preserve herself long after her body withered away.

If there was still a sign that that island was around, scant remains would be all that’s left. It would be a miracle if someone rediscovered it beneath the waves of the Neighgean Sea, but neither Vates nor her fellow golems had hopes for that happening any time soon. However, there was something else that needed their attention now; the time for looking back on the past will have to wait.

On 2024-10-31 at 7:48 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I know very little of them myself, I must admit. Only realy the stories of those that you know too, that hides like chests, or trunks, to lure in careless adventurers to snack on. Never heard of them outside of the chests though. It sounds... Disturbing.

This isn't like those, and if you aren't sure either, we may have to rely on her expertise. Though how she have experience with those things, I haven't a clue. Perhaps this uncle of hers, were a monster wrangler or adventurer of some kind? Perhaps it's prudent to ask at this point."

“Monster hunting as a profession is unfamiliar. It is natural to want to understand the world and the creatures that live in it, but hunting them? I suppose the pursuit of knowledge doesn’t have the same appeal to everyone, but engaging in the hunt for creatures…. It is complicated. Some may call it barbarism, and yet in these moments, some have gathered knowledge of these creatures that we call monsters.”

Magus’s mind and speech drifted into philosophizing the monster-hunting profession, possibly even inadvertently stating his thoughts on the matter. As an academic, he detests the idea of uncouth methods of gathering and expanding knowledge, yet he would begrudgingly admit that there was some merit in the knowledge gained from hunting. If the perspectives were reversed, then those hunted monsters may see sentient creatures as the true monsters.

He wouldn’t argue, seeing as it was academic, and Mystril returned with food. The golem did as instructed and lowered the mimic to her level. The barrier may be placed on the ground, but one could still manipulate objects inside as usual. It gave everyone a better look at what they had in the barrier, and some of Mystril’s observations were promising. The creature was relatively harmless, but its behavior was about as expected as a scared animal backed into a corner.

On 2024-10-31 at 7:48 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I don't know how much bigger they get, but baby mimics after hatching, seem to follow the same basic pattern, which is to uhm... Eat their weaker siblings. They're laid in big clusters so some of them get the chance to scurry along and live, or one just naturally ends up at the top of the food pile, and thus are the strongest. Of the ones who take off, wild beasts tends to eat a fair few, before they get a chance to establish themselves. Those who live, tend to find somewhere nearby, and that's when they stand out. Some goes into chests, or other objects. Some like this, pick a form that they're inspired from by something in the area, and take that over. It probably saw a similar statue and picked that. Pest versions are more active hunters, from what my uncle told me, so they don't hide in chests a lot."

"So it doesn't eat ponies or the like, and keep rodents down. So it is a beneficial one?"

"Sure, long as they're small. But when it gets bigger... Well, even if it doesn't eat us, pets, sheep and such are fair game, so it's a balancing act. Though if it's kept fed and trained well, I don't think it'd be that big of an issue. I need to brush up on the tome he read about these in, so I'd know more. Right now though at least, it'd not dangerous. Just confused, scared, and hungry. Can't blame the poor thing really."

“It still warrants the question of what kind of environment did it have before it was discovered… I suppose there are plenty of questions that can come about from this one. At least we are certain about what kind of mimic we have here, and some of our worries can be eased.”

“But doesn’t it concern anyone that such a creature was kept in the museum for, I assume, a long time? Cursed objects or not, I think ensuring the safety of the building should be considered.”

Scriniarii approached the griffon, carefully examining the mimic while impressed by Mystril’s knowledge about the creature and how she responded to the situation as it unfolded. It was a commendable effort at containing a situation that could have spiraled out of anyone’s control. Now that the current threat has been assessed, the request that followed was rather odd but understandable.

“Knowing of mimics is one thing, but dealing with them is another matter. We have heard and compiled information on the classical mimics, but we… never actually fended off one before. Observing them was about as close as we got to having an encounter with a mimic. You handled yourself very well just now, and we will defer to you on how we should proceed; your knowledge of these mimics is valuable. As such, we will leave the mimic be, but we will keep the barrier up for the moment. So, what happens now? Will you take this mimic in and take care of it?”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
Solar showed amusement from the joke, but also reminded Magma that while it was called a fire escape, fire wasn't the only thing that could cause a reason for evacuation, adding that it was actually more likely to be something else than fire, considering that most things around them were made of stone.

The cafeteria had the basic things one would expect from any cafeteria meant for ponies, it didn't have anything for non-ponies because all the staff was currently equine, not that it was especially fancy towards ponies either, having only the relatively cheapest basics. 

 "I live few minutes of flight away, and I was planning to give you the address too." Solar responded "As I mentioned before, I don't mind you coming to my door in regards of work related things, or more on the civilians side, to get paintings." Solar didn't really have similar need for privacy as ponies here, not because he didn't appreciate it, but because he was so used to not having it, that he didn't really know what to do with it; when everything you saw, heard and otherwise sensed went directly to your superiors all the time for big part of your life, the concept of privacy got bit meaningless. "I'll also provide you with the location of our barrack, in case you need to go there." 

-------

It was indeed hard for Ruby to adapt to the new situation she found herself in, but at this point it was less because of her believes; yes she was still bit unsure about the whole thing, but generally she had accepted the situation; the problem came more from subconscious, things that had been planted beyond her own control, or more specifically for this situation, things that hadn't. Things like physical affection, genuine sympathy towards her, mutual trust, and so on, while Ruby could appreciate them on surface level, she struggled with the deeper impact because she had never had that before, it was like melting a thick layer of ice by holding your hand on it, there is progress, but it's slow. In the same way she had trouble showing her emotions, not because she was still actively suppressing them with Leviathan, but because she didn't know how, all she knew was anger and indifference; She could recognize that there was something in her that wanted to keep Leviathan and Charir safe, but she lacked the knowledge and means to meaningfully separate it from greed, to differentiate it from being possessive over one's possessions.

Ruby wasn't in hurry to rest, she probably wouldn't be able to sleep anyway, she mainly wanted Charir to get rest, since he was so clearly in need of some. She observed the cloud show, but in her usual manner, did not react much "Normally I would scoff at you admitting something like that, but it is justified here." "My mother is a monster among monsters, while my kind doesn't exactly gossip with each other, her name got around enough for me to be compared to her by many of those I took down." "I can acknowledge that the only reason I do not fear her, is because I do not fear death." "And even if I did, my hatred towards her is greater." 

She kept a short pause before looking at Leviathan "I appreciate you coming with me, I didn't want to show it when Charir was awake, but I have my concerns over this too." she looked towards the mainland "I know nothing of what lays on the other side of the barrier, only faint ideas; and I don't like it."  Especially after what happened in the temple, the idea of being at the mercy of highly magical kin wasn't pleasant to Ruby, and even if it was true that they ended up being peaceful, she was concerned about how they would treat her and Charir, after all, they did call them 'Death Bringers', not exactly a sign of friendly relations. That of course assuming they even got that far, it was fully possible that their journey ended at the barrier. 

----------

Again, the twins had no idea on what a human was, but hearing that he came from another world explained that to them, however, it was curious to them that Neon didn't seem confused about it; did that mean she knew what they were? It was also interesting to them that there was a way to be turned into a changeling, and they pondered the concept and implications of magicless being getting magic. 
They nodded to confirm that they had been with Onache during and before the attack. 

"Isn't that a coincidence, we are also from a different world." Trox stated casually, gesturing a bit towards his cybernetics "Us two, and a piece of a building found ourselves from Onache's, and I guess by extension, your basement." they figured that the two dead ponies and a traitorous ancestor weren't important details yet "She carried us here and that's how we ended up travelling together, both having certain...complex feelings towards ponies, it was of mutual benefit." "And no, we also have no idea how exactly we ended up here." 

 

 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-11-03 at 2:24 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I think it might be better to ask Elder Ghilan what might be safe to answer. The meeting will be unpredictable, so having some way to make things work in your favor is the best way to go about it. If you are considering it, speaking with him about what the other elders will ask is an option, but do so before you speak with the elders. We already had our debate, which should give you an idea of what some of those questions might be. However, you might want to do so discretely or when no one else is around to overhear you. There is no telling who might be listening in on you, especially if they disagree with Ghilan.”

“And we’ll also be here to help you out when you are put in a difficult spot. If needed, we’ll cover for you if a question is tricky to answer. But, yeah, let’s try to avoid talking about what happened to the last elder unless they keep pressuring us for an answer. We’ll leave that one to Elder Ghilan.”

“If you are lucky, maybe the other elders will not ask you the tough questions about the last elder Solasan.”

"Okay, I will try and ask him, when there is no one else in my range then."

She knew the range that she could speak, to where others couldn't hear her. She would need to make use of that knowledge, because otherwise, everyone else would hear what it were that she said.

Despite her voice being somewhat of a whisper in your mind, it were not targeted, or something that she could direct, nor were it something that you could just simply overhear. A voice in your ear could be drowned out, but a voice in your head? You needed some loud thoughts, or to really not pay any attention, to not be able to notice that. But perhaps she could find a bit of time to speak with him like that. Probably not a good idea to open a gate to do that, no? It seemed bad for her to do that, somehow. The guards might not like it at least, with them watching over him. Though if something bad happened, she would take him, and/or any others and toss them in there, for their own safety. Just as Mother would want from her.

"I do not know what they will ask, but I think that you trying to give me some of their maybe answers, have helped. Perhaps if I take time to think about it later, it will make sense to me, where it did not before. Thank you for that."

On 2024-11-03 at 2:24 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Ah, well… you have noticed that the huts are just hollowed structures that we use for different purposes. My workshop here is also my home. Or rather, my home is somewhere in the back. If you happen to come around here or open a gate nearby, just call out to me. It should let me know you are nearby.”

“Knocking is also a good idea. That might be better than popping up suddenly in front of anyone, but there are no doors here in the village, so to speak, Omen. Knocking on walls is an option though.”

“Heh heh… Do you remember some time ago at Rosa’s home? I was sleeping, and you were just sitting in front of me the whole time? When I opened my eyes… you scared me good when I woke up. Had me just about ready to jump out of the bed.”

Omen would look around her, having actually not really taken notice of the lack of doors. She had just thought they were open for some reason. Hmm, strange. But that were their choice, yes? Like some who lived in caves. They seemed okay with that kind of thing too.

She would wander over, and slowly knock on the wall, listening to the sound. It seemed to go through, so this were what they meant, yes? It seemed simple enough. Long as she did that, and did not pop up inside, it should be okay. And if he would not answer, she could walk in, and knock on walls that were closer. And if she would find that she did no longer have his scent, she would get hold of Sen and Lin immediately. Scarcity had managed to find a way to hide herself, and her brother, but it sounded like it were done with something special, that was not easy to find. If Zo's scent were gone, it were likely because he were dead, and if that happened, Sen and Lin should be led there. He is family to them, and though she doesn't grasp death in all its macabre finality, she still knows that the family should be there.

She would wander over to them again after this, and look at Sen for a moment, recalling the time that he mentioned. At least the one she believed this to be.

"I have looked at you sleep many times, but that time, Shrimp were using you to sleep on too. I could not move, or I would wake him up. That would not be a good thing, I think.

Or do you mean one of the other times, when I got in close to hear what you were saying in your sleep? You say many strange things then."

This were the sort of thing that were likely to be an issue, if she brought that up to the elders. They probably wouldn't be happy with someone who liked to look at others when they slept. It were one of those things that she found a fascinating way to try and learn about normal creatures, with Sen just being one of the few who knew that she had done it to them, and didn't generally freak out about it.

What else were she going to do to pass time at night? She couldn't exactly take up knitting, as she'd somehow end up dangling from the ceiling if she were given a full ball of yarn. Sure she wouldn't die, because she did not need to breathe, but it would not look good.

On 2024-11-03 at 2:24 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“The weather was a fact of life, but with so many having their faith questioned, one can imagine how they began to turn toward other means of coping with natural disasters. I suppose it doesn’t matter anymore, but thank you. In some ways, it is comforting to know there is a solution to the issue arising from severe weather, even if that came from another place and time.”

"Time marches on, and science leads the way. That is one thing I have been told at least, and I can see the way that both science and magic have improved things over the ages. We still run into pockets of confusingly advanced civilizations, but generally you can see the way that progress have helped with many things. Life expectancy, housing, the weather improvements, and so forth. We are still somewhat old school compared to more advanced countries, but Equestria as it is, strikes a nice balance between tradition, nature, and progress. In my own opinion, of course.

I'm sure that as you look more at the world you've returned to, you'll find a great many things that have improved. Even if some are rather mundane, by our own standards. Things we take for granted and all that.

Your perspective on the matter will be most fascinating, I would say."

How often did you get the chance to get a perspective on the current state of the world, compared to the old one, by one that had actually been part of it? Basically never. If they did, those like himself wouldn't have a job. This were a marvelous, and potentially outright unique experience that they could learn from, and he were hoping that they could come to an understanding eventually, that would be very informative, and potentially humbling.

On 2024-11-03 at 2:24 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Monster hunting as a profession is unfamiliar. It is natural to want to understand the world and the creatures that live in it, but hunting them? I suppose the pursuit of knowledge doesn’t have the same appeal to everyone, but engaging in the hunt for creatures…. It is complicated. Some may call it barbarism, and yet in these moments, some have gathered knowledge of these creatures that we call monsters.”

"It varies what you can defy as a monster hunter though. I use monster wrangler as a more general term, for one who fights monsters. In some cases that can be one who does go out and hunt for sport. I can't say I am keen on associating with those types. Either they are thrillseekers, or like the Hide Hunter, seeking ever greater prey to hunt. We don't see eye to eye.

Yet it can also be one who handles things that terrorize an area. Handling them like heroes would, to save others. I can understand those more, as they are trying to do good for others, which is at the least admirable.

Hmm... I suppose one could also think of a third as being those who try to trap monsters, to sell them as exotic pets. Dreadful business that I can't imagine ends well, most of the time. Though as they say, there's a buyer for everything."

Sure there were some exotic pets that were beautiful, but monsters? Some with more bits than brains would likely get one, but he'd place a sizable bet that someday, the chain breaks, and they would face consequences. Some things were simply not meant for pets. If that included this mimic, he hadn't the faintest idea. He'd leave that for Mystril to inform them about. She seemed the most knowledgeable.

On 2024-11-03 at 2:24 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It still warrants the question of what kind of environment did it have before it was discovered… I suppose there are plenty of questions that can come about from this one. At least we are certain about what kind of mimic we have here, and some of our worries can be eased.”

“But doesn’t it concern anyone that such a creature was kept in the museum for, I assume, a long time? Cursed objects or not, I think ensuring the safety of the building should be considered.”

Scriniarii approached the griffon, carefully examining the mimic while impressed by Mystril’s knowledge about the creature and how she responded to the situation as it unfolded. It was a commendable effort at containing a situation that could have spiraled out of anyone’s control. Now that the current threat has been assessed, the request that followed was rather odd but understandable.

“Knowing of mimics is one thing, but dealing with them is another matter. We have heard and compiled information on the classical mimics, but we… never actually fended off one before. Observing them was about as close as we got to having an encounter with a mimic. You handled yourself very well just now, and we will defer to you on how we should proceed; your knowledge of these mimics is valuable. As such, we will leave the mimic be, but we will keep the barrier up for the moment. So, what happens now? Will you take this mimic in and take care of it?”

"It wasn't here for that long, before it woke up.  That said, I am going to need to have security go around and poke things to see if this is a singular incident, or there is an infestation. Imagine if the museum got taken over by mimics. It would be a nightmare."

"I wouldn't worry about that. There is very few species of mimics that coalesce into a big hunting ground, and if we had that here, you'd know."

"How can you be so sure of that?"

"Because we're currently in an enclosed, badly lit room, with plenty of boxes and other containers. If there were an infestation of a cluster, we would currently be trying to fruitlessly fend of the entire herd. Assuming we hadn't already been eaten."

The way she said that so casually and factually, made Rusty's spine shiver a little. He didn't doubt that she were right, yet still, it disturbed him to think that she believed the proof of the museum being under attack from a large swarm of mimics, were that they were not currently dead.

"No, at worst, there could be upwards of five, in an area as big as the museum. I'd start at the exhibition that we found this in first, and then wander around with a steak on a pole. If there is any, they'd probably be ravenous for fresh meat too.

As for this..."

She'd look thoughtfully down on the little mimic, who seemed to have eaten all of its food, and now laid down on the floor, wings to the side. It seemed full. Sure the leg of the tourist had been larger, but there were a difference between shoving things into your mouth, and actually eating it. If it had gotten a whole leg, it would have needed to digest that over several times, as it wouldn't have room for that much at once.

"...Yes, I'll take care of it."

Rusty seemed to nearly get out of his good skin, hearing this.

"Surely you jest? If what you hypothesized is true, it is akin to a wild animal. We should have it shipped back, and tell the Crystal Empire to handle things."

"Which they would do by killing it. Provided that it even survived the trip back in the first place.

My uncle taught me that I should show compassion for al creatures, and not mindlessly harm for no reason. I know the most of it, it is only fair that I try and care for it. At the very least until it have matured, and I can arrange for it to be transported somewhere more suitable.

I'll keep a record of my experiences with it. Perhaps there's something to be learned from this, that could be helpful if this sort of thing happens again. Or do you think ignorance is a better way to handle, what you don't understand?"

She'd send them all a brief, somewhat hard look as she said that. Admittedly, she were judging them somewhat, though the look and more gruff stance, passed fast. She hadn't it in her to be a big, tough looking griffon for long. Mystril were a more soft bird, that felt the need to try and see others eye to eye, rather than punch them in the beak. Not always an attitude that gave a lot of respect back, as griffon society tended to value some degree of pride and defiance, but it mattered little to her. She didn't live in one of those anymore, and didn't have to be judged by their standards.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"It certainly cannot hurt to know where the barracks are, just in case something occurs."

Could be he wasn't home, but there instead. Or one of the new recruits they'd get would end up there, or a myriad of other reasons. If it were part of this unit, then it could be helpful for her to know of its location, in case the need came for her to go there.

Though it could be for mundane reasons too, like delivering messages personally, or directing a hire there, in case the barracks were in some regard related to their position in the unit. Those were just off the top of her head, and if she knew what he barracks were for, she'd perhaps have further guesses. Frankly, she may as well ask, yes? Weren't as if she had other things to ask, as things had been explained well as she were shown around, and introduced to other members of the staff. As well as during the presentation before said trip. The barracks were really the only unknown in things for her, at this current point time, far as she could think of.

"May I ask, what is the significance of the barracks, sir? As in, what function does it provide? Storage? Training facility? A testing range perhaps? Or is it simply a housing measure? I know that is the more common usage of barracks, but I've seen the term used for other things, meant for group activities, and general storage. Dependent often on what the building were used as before."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Can't say I blame you there. They're an unknown, on the other side of a barrier, and you're used to a pretty brutal way of life. They're still part of your island, magic or not, so who's to say they aren't the same? Or worse even, since they also have magic.

I mean, it usually takes time and effort to cultivate and train your magic. You know, some book smarts and intelligence, but that doesn't mean you can't be violent and murderous. I've met other dragons who could do magic, who reveled in causing pain and agony, and only learned to do so in more fun ways.

But still, I want to try to at least have some hope, that there's someone on the other side of that barrier that we can talk reason to. Moreso than your mother at least, though I d wonder... If your father really were from that other side of the barrier, what does that say about them? You said yourself, that your mother is a monster among monsters. Makes me curious what kind of mate she found acceptable enough to dally with not just once, but twice. Or if its different ones, it still brings up the question as to what sort of dragons are there.

...Can't say I know, but I'm thinking more Le Perinne, than me, comparison wise."

She'd let out a sigh, and shake her head.

"Thinking about this ain't helping to ease my mind, that's for sure. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens. But for what it's worth, I got your back. I don't want to see any of you hurt, so I'll stick to you and stand my ground if I have to, even if it means I have to toss everything at your mom, while you run off."

It was odd thinking that she'd actually potentially end up sacrificing herself. Hadn't been something she had considered doing, but saying it out loud, she couldn't deny that it rung true. She cared deeply for them, but to this level? That honestly surprised her.

She'd like to ponder that, and the implications of that some more another time, but right now, she needed to rest, and get some energy back before the morrow. They had a potentially rough day ahead of them, and she'd like to try and be ready for it. It were surprisingly much easier to deal with things such as thoughts of potential self sacrifice, if they were alive to actually think of the implications.

Leviathan would look up at Ruby, then lean in, and lay her chin on the larger dragonesses leg, whilst grinning up at her.

"Heh, we got a heck of a time ahead of us. How about if we make it through this, we go and have some fun? Feels like it's been non-stop trouble and work lately, and it's making us both on edge. We handle this, and I say we darn well deserve some fun time, yeah?"

She'd let out another sigh, eyes warming up from the cheeky look she just sent, as a puff of smoke rolled out from her nostrils. A content sound escaping her, while she enjoyed Ruby's tough scales on her neck. Ruby felt like a very reassuring presence right now, and if not much else were said, Leviathan might just snooze off, leaning up against her.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I guess that explains the metallic bits. Not seen anything that advanced here before. Equestria is very technologically stagnant."

"Yes well, but we have magic helping us, and we have the tech we tend to need."

"It wasn't said as a negative. Where I come from, there's only technology, and no magic. The rich drains the world of everything, and leaves the air polluted, and the planet slowly dying. This world isn't perfect, and there's still dangers, but I enjoy how much cleaner and safe it is."

"We still have giant monsters attacking."

"And they can kill what, a few dozen at most, at a time? Humans have bombs that can kill millions at once. I prefer it here. Even if I had to get acclimated forcefully.

But I suppose you two wouldn't know what converting means then? Basically, changelings can make others into one of them. But it requires resources, that usually aren't seen as being worth the time. And then of course, they have to drain their target of all their emotions. Down to the last droplet, where you're feeling nothing. Just yourself, in an empty void. No pain, no love, no desire.

I cannot describe how it feels, to be void of everything, and then being shoved into that cocoon. But she wanted to see, if someone like me could be changed too."

He'd look over towards Onache, a surprisingly softness in his eyes, despite the treatment that he just described going through. All by the order of her, because she wanted to see what would happen.

"Still, I cared little. My life was lonely and pointless before that. I pursued money, to get a bigger vineyard, so I could feel superior to others. False power. She gave me real strength, and I could feel it in every fiber of my being, when I smashed out of that cocoon.

Judge her all you want, doctor. But in the end, I were asked to bend the knee, and I did so willingly. Just as I changed yet again, because she needed me."

"That's indoctrination."

"That's loyalty. A little torture, was not the best start, but she made up for that. She trained and nurtured me, and even when the others talked behind my back, she never let their poisonous words sway her.

Still, she were harsh, and her methods cruel. Such were the price for keeping her children fed, where it were that she lived. Now... I don't know how she will be, after she no longer needs to hunt ponies to feed, but I am hopeful. Seeing how you two apparently showed up, at her new home, and she chose to aid you, rather than try and annihilate you, is comforting to hear. It gives me hope, just as it did when she sent me to try and make connections with old enemies, on her behalf.

*sigh* It's why I wasn't there, when all of this happened... I hope she can forgive me for that. Though I am thankful that you were.

If you two ever need anything, simply let me know. Even if it's my good wine. Which I don't just hand out willy nilly I might add. That stuff's expensive.

...Oh right, I should mention it. My cover when I went scouting around, is that of a travelling alcohol merchant. Makes good use of my previous knowledge and skills, though magic makes it ridiculously fast to get the desired result. Mind you it's not cheap to get the right sort of box, but oh is it ever so worth it. Gotta have some pride in your work, y'know?"

He'd grin, then let out a sigh, and calm down again somewhat.

"Sorry. It's been stressful, since I learned what happened to her, and I don't exactly have a lot to speak with normally. Me being a little... uncooperative at times with the staff here, isn't helping either. Paranoia and feeling protective, doesn't make for the best combination to act nice, on seeing new faces right now.

I wanna touch upon something though. You said that you don't know how you got here? Means it probably wasn't intentional. Maybe you fell through a rift too? Either way, have you gotten to the point yet when you've accepted that you're not getting back either? It's not the easiest to accept. I've been there. But far as I can tell, it's just how it is.

Though if its any consolation, the place is pretty nice, so you get used to it somewhat fast. Guess it might be different for kobolds? I haven't run into a lot of your sort, I'll admit. Last time I recall, a few years back, was a group of four, that needed a bottle of whiskey. Fairly decent sorts honestly. Didn't cause any trouble, and they had an eye for quality. Not the weakest, not the cheapest, nor the strongest on display for them. They chose the bottle that I would've suggested too, if they wanted something special.

Granted, I dunno if they drank it, but a sale's a sale."

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-11-10 at 7:57 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I do not know what they will ask, but I think that you trying to give me some of their maybe answers, have helped. Perhaps if I take time to think about it later, it will make sense to me, where it did not before. Thank you for that."

“It is the least I can do to help. I do not know what will happen when you will face the elders soon, but here is a lesson I learned long ago. When faced with something unknown, it is best to go in as prepared as you can get. I just hope I did enough to prepare all of you for what is to come.”

“You did that and more, grandfather. Even we don’t know more to expect from the other elders, but you gave us some ideas.”

“Then I leave the rest to you. I wish I could go, but at my age, maybe I should not push myself too much. So, how about you all do me a favor and be careful, all right? Who knows what you will encounter when you meet the elders? And let me know how it goes. Never thought I would live to learn young folks like you get to meet the elders in such an important event!”

Though Sen and Lin were still harboring some doubts that things would go their way, it was good to know someone was backing them. He may not be there physically, but Zo placed his confidence in them and Omen. Regardless of anyone’s thoughts, this was a moment that could lead to big changes among the longma. What hopes he had now placed in them, the new generation. Maybe he might live a little longer to see it for himself; it would be something that their parents would be proud of if they were still around.

On 2024-11-10 at 7:57 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I have looked at you sleep many times, but that time, Shrimp were using you to sleep on too. I could not move, or I would wake him up. That would not be a good thing, I think.

Or do you mean one of the other times, when I got in close to hear what you were saying in your sleep? You say many strange things then."

Sen looked to Omen with a mortified expression, eyes widened at the mention of saying strange things in his sleep. He remembers the nightmares, the pained memories of reliving the worst experience of his life, but other things…. That one he does not recall, though he now wondered what else he might have said in his sleep. Lin, meanwhile, looked to her brother, then to the Ki’Nathar, with a very big grin on her face. Even she couldn’t help tenting her talons with a mischievous smirk. 

“I said many strange things while I slept? We’re not talking about those nightmares, are we?”

“Ooh! Ooh! This has ‘juicy’ written all over it! You have to tell me! Was it strange, embarrassing things?” Lin just couldn't help herself upon learning about what she just heard. Even the thought of knowing something like this had her giddily jumping on the spot.

“Sister, please. I don’t think I want to know. I mean, it’s nice to know Shrimp was sleeping on me, but if I did say embarrassing things, maybe let’s not anyone else know about it?” 

Sen tried to make himself appear smaller, hiding his face behind his claws. If Lin was pumping this kind of information out of Omen, he just hoped they had the privacy afforded by staying inside their grandfather’s workshop. Grandfather Zo watched and chuckled to himself, amused by this display. Despite seeing his grandchildren all grown up, there was still a hint of the young, playful selves that remained from days long gone. One could only wonder how things go at night when there is little to do…

On 2024-11-10 at 7:57 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Time marches on, and science leads the way. That is one thing I have been told at least, and I can see the way that both science and magic have improved things over the ages. We still run into pockets of confusingly advanced civilizations, but generally you can see the way that progress have helped with many things. Life expectancy, housing, the weather improvements, and so forth. We are still somewhat old school compared to more advanced countries, but Equestria as it is, strikes a nice balance between tradition, nature, and progress. In my own opinion, of course.

I'm sure that as you look more at the world you've returned to, you'll find a great many things that have improved. Even if some are rather mundane, by our own standards. Things we take for granted and all that.

Your perspective on the matter will be most fascinating, I would say."

“It is good to see civilization advance with new findings, seeing how it grows and develops. We saw it now and again, but being disembodied meant we couldn’t interact with it. We were always at the mercy of whoever held our leash, so to speak. Not all of it was a terrible experience; there were times when someone found us and exchanged information. Other times, we were drawn to those we've met because of their curiosity or kindness. Those were some interesting moments worth their weight in gold, even if they were fleeting. But you are right. Time marches on, and what becomes of it later remains to be seen.”

Vates wondered just how different the future might be if time continued on its current trajectory. Big cities, modern technology… it was all a curious matter. Yet she was just as curious about what would be left behind to be forgotten when the times change. What kingdoms rise and what fall, all were fascinating. 

On 2024-11-10 at 7:57 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It varies what you can defy as a monster hunter though. I use monster wrangler as a more general term, for one who fights monsters. In some cases that can be one who does go out and hunt for sport. I can't say I am keen on associating with those types. Either they are thrillseekers, or like the Hide Hunter, seeking ever greater prey to hunt. We don't see eye to eye.

Yet it can also be one who handles things that terrorize an area. Handling them like heroes would, to save others. I can understand those more, as they are trying to do good for others, which is at the least admirable.

Hmm... I suppose one could also think of a third as being those who try to trap monsters, to sell them as exotic pets. Dreadful business that I can't imagine ends well, most of the time. Though as they say, there's a buyer for everything."

“I’d much rather believe that there is a better term than ‘monster hunter,’ at least for those who seek to understand how such operate. Though I suppose they are a scholar in some respect, especially when they put their talents for positive reasons.”

“Even now the trade for exotic pets continues? I would have hoped such a thing wouldn’t be around anymore, but maybe that was too much to ask for. The pursuit for wealth can lead one to undertake strange trades.”

Magus pondered about what else might still be around, finding some commonality in this age and the past. The methods may be different, but the danger persisted. He looked to the mimic in the room with them, carefully considering the possibility that such things may be out there. Monster hunters may be knowledgeable about the dangers the creatures had, but the same could not be said for the buyers….

On 2024-11-10 at 7:57 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Surely you jest? If what you hypothesized is true, it is akin to a wild animal. We should have it shipped back, and tell the Crystal Empire to handle things."

"Which they would do by killing it. Provided that it even survived the trip back in the first place.

My uncle taught me that I should show compassion for al creatures, and not mindlessly harm for no reason. I know the most of it, it is only fair that I try and care for it. At the very least until it have matured, and I can arrange for it to be transported somewhere more suitable.

I'll keep a record of my experiences with it. Perhaps there's something to be learned from this, that could be helpful if this sort of thing happens again. Or do you think ignorance is a better way to handle, what you don't understand?"

Scriniarii listened as Mystril took charge of the situation. Knowledge combined with initiative and conviction, all amounted to an impressive display of control over a potential crisis. Not many had all aspects covered, and that on display got the other golems to stand down and place their confidence in her. Magus dissipated his protective barrier, convinced that the urgent need for it had passed. The group didn’t have anything more to argue about, aside from Rusty’s well-founded concern.

The golem approached the stallion, hesitating for a moment about whether to place one hoof on him for reassurance. As he understood, it was a gesture that may be more appropriate for close individuals. Perhaps it isn’t right in the heat of the moment, but he’d still step in to diffuse the growing tension.

“Calm, Rusty. Mystril has the situation under control. Has she not shown sufficient knowledge of the mimic and the drive to care for it? I believe that the imminent danger has passed, and we can be assured of our safety here.”

“What you did here, Mystril, reminded us of our fellows long, long ago. Scholars with conviction are rare, more so when it comes to standing up for what they believe in. They gave us some of the most heated discussions when our perspectives differed, but they offered valuable insight nonetheless. We believe that what is unknown, what we don’t understand, should be examined to dispel the fear surrounding them. If you will permit, maybe we can turn to you as a guide on these kinds of mimics?”

He said his piece, smiling all throughout. He didn’t mind the griffon raising her voice and puffing her chest. This matter was important to her, and he knew it was in these moments that one could truly show who they are and what they stand for. It was respectable, at least to him and his fellow golems.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
"It's just basic barracks." Solar stated "Beds, some storage for personal things, and basic facilities for maintenance of equipment and soldiers."  "Things like the training areas are their own thing." "I personally do not use them." "For the building itself, as I understand it, it was purpose build for the function when Celestia created the guard." as he spoke, Solar took out a map of Canterlot "That's where our unit's barracks are, and for my home..." he stated the address and pointed it on the map. 

The barracks currently were basically useless, thus Solar's earlier mention that Magma would be free to stay there if necessary; he himself didn't need them, as not only did he live close by, he also didn't sleep as often as normal ponies; the small maintenance space in there was also no use for him, due to being made for things that were several centuries less technological than his oldest part.

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

"I have wondered my mother's choice of mates since before I even considered my father to be anything but another of my kind." Ruby stated "For she made it very clear she was not happy with her choice, not in my case, or my older siblings, where ever they may be, if alive." "Safe to assume it is true with Charir too, based on how he was treated." "She was vague on everything else but her dislike of my father, I cannot be sure even if he made it out alive, not that I particularly care about his fate." "All I know is that Charir has a different father, due to the clear difference in our magical nature." "Which only makes me question her actions more." "For the males themselves, while it is possible they seek out someone like my mother, which does rise in question the supposed good nature of our eastern's kin, there is also the possibility that it's not entirely willing, all they need to be is alive, and my mother is not known for asking." "And considering her habit of going after not only her own blood, but dragons that are generally smaller and weaker than herself, I do not see such pathetic acts to be below her." "But it does bring up a question, if even by tiny chance she has resulted to such weakness, what has driven her to such desperation?" at the end Ruby had turned to more thinking out loud rather than speaking to Leviathan directly, as she spoke it out, a realization hit a connection between herself and her mother, certain similarity, she also returned to her time as a hatchling in her head.

"But what comes to potential encounter with my mother, it is better for you to focus on getting Charir to safety; Trust me, she won't lay a claw on me, not anymore." the last words came out with uncharacteristic vitriol. "I'll give your 'fun' a chance after this, if for nothing else than to thank you for accompanying me here."  

If Leviathan didn't add anything more, and started to sleep, the last thing she would hear would be Ruby quietly muttering towards the mainland, it was in her native language, but if Leviathan remembered it from their language lesson from before, she may have been able to recognize the last, contempt filled word, Dask, Mother. After that Ruby would fall silent, just staring into distance until she fell asleep, be it very lightweight sleep, as this close to home, she had to sleep one eye open so to speak. Because of this light sleep, whenever Leviathan woke up, Ruby would be seemingly already awake, as even if she wouldn't be awake yet, she would wake up the moment Leviathan moved. 

-------

There was lot to address, so the siblings picked few things to stick to "We accepted we aren't going back the moment we learned where we are." Trox started rather boldly "We wouldn't go even if we knew how to, we'd rather die." "The only thing we have had to accept is the fact that we can't do anything to help our brothers and sisters in their suffering anymore." "But at the same time, our arrival here didn't really change anything, as we were already as good as dead, have been for...we frankly don't know, could have been a week, a month, or ten years." "Hardest thing to get used to besides the sun is the peace."

"Our kind is lot less common in this world, as we are still living happily in our isolation, hidden from the problems of the surface, we are aware of few groups and individuals thanks to a friend who travels around, but we have only met one local kobold up to this point." "I do wonder if the group of four is the same one that she mentioned, one of them did have the nickname of Drunk." "What comes to us, we have to decline the wine, we try to keep drinking to minimum." 

"But to return back a bit, regarding magic and technology, it is not the existence of magic holding back technology, but rather the lack of will, our world is both magically and technically highly advanced, this arm here..." Trox pointed at his arm "...Is such an old model that we literally found it in the trash, and it uses both magic and technology to operate." "It's just about the motivation, and in our world's case it was war, unfortunately." 

"And we want to make it known that we understand your loyalty towards your queen, and partly her actions too, as she shared some of her memories with us, even if forcibly and painfully transforming someone is bit outside our morality." "We also do not judge either of you, as we understand the nuance in morality, after all, there are certain things that are parts to our species that more individualistic species like ponies find morally inexcusable." 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It is the least I can do to help. I do not know what will happen when you will face the elders soon, but here is a lesson I learned long ago. When faced with something unknown, it is best to go in as prepared as you can get. I just hope I did enough to prepare all of you for what is to come.”

“You did that and more, grandfather. Even we don’t know more to expect from the other elders, but you gave us some ideas.”

“Then I leave the rest to you. I wish I could go, but at my age, maybe I should not push myself too much. So, how about you all do me a favor and be careful, all right? Who knows what you will encounter when you meet the elders? And let me know how it goes. Never thought I would live to learn young folks like you get to meet the elders in such an important event!”

"When we know where it is, we can open gates between there, and here. So we can return when the elders are done with us. You will know what happened before many others.

...I wonder if it goes well, they will take one of your gates back here, Lin? Yours is fast. It could be helpful."

They might try and imprison them or something similar, but honestly, what could they do, if Omen wanted to leave? Chains, guards, weapons- It were things that would work on their own. But when someone could open a hole in thin air, to another world, then it became notably harder to keep hold of you. Including her friends. Lin might be able to open gates too, but Omen had done this for a long, long time. She could open them fast, at many angles, and multiple at a time. If they tried taking Lin and Sen, she'd take them. If they tried holding them in a net again, she would instead take those who did that to them, and send them into her home, until she had gotten them down.

Would it reflect well on her? No, but if they were trapping them all in a big net, or did something that would qualify as her needing to protect them, things had likely not gone well, so what did it matter? Her concern wasn't what the longma thought of her, but the wellbeing of her friends.

Just to wait and see what would happen she supposed. Not much else she could do beyond pondering, and trying to learn from the questions and answers that she had received. That would require some silent time though, so that were probably not happening before nightfall. Should still be enough time to work with, until they reached the elder's enclave, if she had understood it correctly though.

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I said many strange things while I slept? We’re not talking about those nightmares, are we?”

“Ooh! Ooh! This has ‘juicy’ written all over it! You have to tell me! Was it strange, embarrassing things?” Lin just couldn't help herself upon learning about what she just heard. Even the thought of knowing something like this had her giddily jumping on the spot.

“Sister, please. I don’t think I want to know. I mean, it’s nice to know Shrimp was sleeping on me, but if I did say embarrassing things, maybe let’s not anyone else know about it?” 

Omen tilted her head, observing the odd interaction. He hadn't been like this other times she had mentioned that he talked in his sleep, far as he knew. Were it because his grandfather were here now, and he did not want him to hear what it were about?

"I have listened to you sleep several times. It have mostly just been noises, and random words, after Lin stopped possessing you. I think you said that it haunted you, that you could not find her, yes? But I still listen sometimes. Hearing if there are something special you say. That is what happened when you woke up the last time, and I was looking at you. Shrimp fell halfway down on you, so I did not move.

It sounds like you do not want me to say what you have said though? Okay. I can do that."

She specifically did not say that she would stop watching him while he slept though. Because unless asked, she wouldn't.

It wasn't every night she did so, and she did not know that it was somewhat creepy for others. So unless told otherwise, she did not see the issue in sometimes listening in, and observing.

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“It is good to see civilization advance with new findings, seeing how it grows and develops. We saw it now and again, but being disembodied meant we couldn’t interact with it. We were always at the mercy of whoever held our leash, so to speak. Not all of it was a terrible experience; there were times when someone found us and exchanged information. Other times, we were drawn to those we've met because of their curiosity or kindness. Those were some interesting moments worth their weight in gold, even if they were fleeting. But you are right. Time marches on, and what becomes of it later remains to be seen.”

"Disembodied voices you say? Might I inquire on how you ended in your current state actually? I'm sure there's an interesting story about that."

"Why, their vessel fell into my possession, of course. These bodies of theirs, were uncovered then during one of the digs that I finance, and while I did intend for them to be great artifacts for the museum, learning of their owners changed plans. The rest were simply to have them brought to their bodies. Sadly I were not there to see their awakening, but I can imagine it must have been quite an event in the moment, to suddenly have agency such as this again.

Aah how I wish I could have seen it, but it were much too dangerous and out of place for me. Yet I feel fortunate that I still get to show them around now."

"A fortuitous turn of events. Can't say I would trust any graverobber to not simply have held the bodies hostage."

He hadn't an issue believing her words on this, and saw why she stepped in. She had been part of this side of their tale, as well as the present, and as a trusted patron of the museum, he were certain that presented with this choice, she had made the right one. Scarcity were a reputable mare, who certainly were known for how to run a business, but this were but one of many times he had witnessed her philanthropy and kindness as well. Several of the things she had donated, were outright possible for her to have just kept for instance, as they wouldn't fall under museum domain, and yet here they were. Sure there were a tax incentive, but the prices some of the things she had given them could fetch, would likely pale such things. The siren statue alone were a unique marvel, that he were certainly no expert in evaluating, but had heard others gist would be worth a ludicrous amount of bits, to certain private collectors.

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I’d much rather believe that there is a better term than ‘monster hunter,’ at least for those who seek to understand how such operate. Though I suppose they are a scholar in some respect, especially when they put their talents for positive reasons.”

“Even now the trade for exotic pets continues? I would have hoped such a thing wouldn’t be around anymore, but maybe that was too much to ask for. The pursuit for wealth can lead one to undertake strange trades.”

The professor would sigh slightly, and shake his head.

"While the world changes, some things remain ever the same. The eccentricity of the wealthy, and the willingness of some to appease them over morals, common sense, or decency, being but some of them. You would be surprised how many things that belongs in a museum, or in the royal treasury, that is also found with infrequent regularity, when somepony passes, and their private collection is given a look. A few month back, we were given possession of a half dozen things that had outright been thought destroyed a century or more ago, that were uncovered when one of the elder noblemares passed."

"Ah yes, Baroness Willful. Always the collector in her days, but the things I've heard they found were surprising. I had to go and request they checked my own personal collection too, as I had acquired things from her in the past, and rightly so, they found a locket that had no business being outside of the vault. The princesses seemed as happy to gain it though, as I were to be rid of it. I don't want such dealings to taint my business."

Truth be told, she had sold several of the things to the baroness over the years, and had a few planted too. She also took advantage of things to lay a paper trail tot he locket she had, to both have it returned to the princesses for some goodwill from them, as well as tarnish the reputation of the baroness post her death. Dreadful old hag had never been somepony Scarcity cared for, and her heir were confused. A good time for her to contact, and offer both sympathy, and advise on how to handle things, to minimize the damage it could have for his own reputation.

A little underhanded perhaps, but it secured her a notable ally, that she foresaw could be very useful in the years to come. Between his impressionable state, and notable finances, she looked forward to this particular investment of her attention - and pettiness towards his grandmother - to pay off several times over.

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Scriniarii listened as Mystril took charge of the situation. Knowledge combined with initiative and conviction, all amounted to an impressive display of control over a potential crisis. Not many had all aspects covered, and that on display got the other golems to stand down and place their confidence in her. Magus dissipated his protective barrier, convinced that the urgent need for it had passed. The group didn’t have anything more to argue about, aside from Rusty’s well-founded concern.

The mimic would see the shield being down, and began to look around, ready to bolt off, soon as it knew the best angle, when it saw Mystril leaning down, holding the other half of her sandwich out towards it. Then she placed it in her open hand, and waited.

It were hesitant, but it were still hungry, and she had fed it before. So cautiously, it would approach her, ready to bolt in the other direction at a moments notice. But she remained calm as it climbed on her hand, grabbed the sandwich, and began eating away. She'd wait until it were a little through, before slowly rising up, and eventually holding it in her hand, stood tall, as it sat down in her palm and kept eating.

It cost Mystril her lunch, but it were progress towards establishing trust, that she'd need here early on. She could get something to eat later.

On 2024-11-13 at 1:30 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Calm, Rusty. Mystril has the situation under control. Has she not shown sufficient knowledge of the mimic and the drive to care for it? I believe that the imminent danger has passed, and we can be assured of our safety here.”

“What you did here, Mystril, reminded us of our fellows long, long ago. Scholars with conviction are rare, more so when it comes to standing up for what they believe in. They gave us some of the most heated discussions when our perspectives differed, but they offered valuable insight nonetheless. We believe that what is unknown, what we don’t understand, should be examined to dispel the fear surrounding them. If you will permit, maybe we can turn to you as a guide on these kinds of mimics?”

"I'll need to read up on some things too, but yes, I can try. Though some things I suspect I won't find in any book, and are gonna learn first hand."

"Hmm, can't say I think it is safe, but I hope to be proven wrong. Good luck."

"Long as it's kept fed, I think it should work enough to make it attach itself. First hurdle I think is going to be to teach it what is and isn't food, so... If you hear about something trying to chase a cat, it's probably going to be me.

*Sigh* I need to speak to my uncle about this, and see if he has some pointers too."

She didn't seem overall thrilled about that, but she quickly moved on to say something more than that, seemingly not wanting to linger on certain thoughts.

"I agree with how your scholars looked at things. It's not good to see something you don't understand, and try to avoid or destroy it. We never learn, if we don't try to understand. Even if it sometimes cause problems.

There's still plenty around that feels like that. Maybe you will blend well with them. I'm sure you have some perspectives that they wouldn't have normally, considering your history. I'm not much into those circles, so I don't know exactly. Too much talking, and not enough action, you know? Which is fine, but just not my kind of thing."

She'd bring the mimic closer to her face, but halt after a few inches, when she saw it were starting to shuffle its legs. Then she'd take it an inch further away again, which seemed to calm it down somewhat, as it resumed eating. Seemed like she had a starting range to work with here then, though ideally, it wouldn't be long before she could get it closer, and perhaps perch on her by its own volition. Perhaps when it had eaten, it'd be more malleable?

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

She'd thank him for the offer, but wouldn't elect to sleep at the barracks herself. While she were fairly sure she were stable, and would not cause trouble while resting, Magma were of the opinion that it were wiser to not risk herself being around others when she slept as it stood. This were not to say something of their potential recruits, but more of her own want for more time to be absolutely certain of her limitations.

Also, she didn't enjoy sharing a room with others when she slept. She enjoyed her privacy at vulnerable moments such as that.

If there were nothing else, she'd excuse herself, so she could go and make a list of what she needed for the office, and then go over a few things in her head when it came to what she'd need to look for, in potential recruits. She had a list soon enough yes, but filtering via criteria, would be helpful in taking the options and ranking them properly.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-11-15 at 12:24 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I have wondered my mother's choice of mates since before I even considered my father to be anything but another of my kind." Ruby stated "For she made it very clear she was not happy with her choice, not in my case, or my older siblings, where ever they may be, if alive." "Safe to assume it is true with Charir too, based on how he was treated." "She was vague on everything else but her dislike of my father, I cannot be sure even if he made it out alive, not that I particularly care about his fate." "All I know is that Charir has a different father, due to the clear difference in our magical nature." "Which only makes me question her actions more." "For the males themselves, while it is possible they seek out someone like my mother, which does rise in question the supposed good nature of our eastern's kin, there is also the possibility that it's not entirely willing, all they need to be is alive, and my mother is not known for asking." "And considering her habit of going after not only her own blood, but dragons that are generally smaller and weaker than herself, I do not see such pathetic acts to be below her." "But it does bring up a question, if even by tiny chance she has resulted to such weakness, what has driven her to such desperation?" at the end Ruby had turned to more thinking out loud rather than speaking to Leviathan directly, as she spoke it out, a realization hit a connection between herself and her mother, certain similarity, she also returned to her time as a hatchling in her head.

"But what comes to potential encounter with my mother, it is better for you to focus on getting Charir to safety; Trust me, she won't lay a claw on me, not anymore." the last words came out with uncharacteristic vitriol. "I'll give your 'fun' a chance after this, if for nothing else than to thank you for accompanying me here."  

"Maybe your dads were both hot? We can't rule out that she found them attractive in some way.

Y'know, that's a thought actually. You wonder is maybe we'll run into your dads, if we get to the other side? Unless your mom has a habit of treating mates like she's a mantis, there's a fair chance they could still be alive in there somewhere. That would be pretty awkward, huh?"

A fun time of family reunions all around. Probably not honestly, but if it happened, what even would they do? Something told her that neither Charir, nor Ruby, ever gave much of a thought as to who their father even were in the first place. It didn't matter to their lives, but what about now? It might end up mattering. Especially if... Huh, that was a thought.

"Say, what if they're strong? Like, what would your mom do, if she were met with an equal? Smaller of stature maybe, but high in magic, it could tip the scales. Does she have it in her to actually respect someone else? Or perhaps she were curious what the hatchlings would be like?

So many guesses, so little concrete evidence. Maybe we'll be able to ask. Your dads, that is. I get the feeling if I went to your mom and went *Yo! On a scale of 1 to 10, how smashing were your boy toys?* I'd get my scales plucked slowly and painfully.

*yawn* Then again, what do I know? Maybe she ate them. Wouldn't put it past her. She for sure ain't gonna get to you, or Charir on her menu. You got my word on that. Can't have fun if that precious little boy and you are all torn up."

She knew what Ruby meant. She heard what were said and all, but she still didn't want  to see either of them get die here. And she wouldn't just abandon Ruby either. How could she? If she had a chance to save her too, then how could she just run off like that? Ruby could ask a lot of her, but not that one. Not anymore.

Still, she'd make sure Charir were safe, and out of harm. That much were a given. He shouldn't go and get himself killed before he had even cast his first spell. He were much too young to perish.

On 2024-11-15 at 12:24 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

If Leviathan didn't add anything more, and started to sleep, the last thing she would hear would be Ruby quietly muttering towards the mainland, it was in her native language, but if Leviathan remembered it from their language lesson from before, she may have been able to recognize the last, contempt filled word, Dask, Mother. After that Ruby would fall silent, just staring into distance until she fell asleep, be it very lightweight sleep, as this close to home, she had to sleep one eye open so to speak. Because of this light sleep, whenever Leviathan woke up, Ruby would be seemingly already awake, as even if she wouldn't be awake yet, she would wake up the moment Leviathan moved. 

Leviathan would have moved some, during her rest. Going from laying up against Ruby in a somewhat leaning fashion, to instead wrap herself around her leg. By the look of the smile on her face, and the low purr that at times escaped her, she seemed to have a good dream too.

Though suddenly she'd just open her eyes widely, and yoink her head back, whilst blurting out something in a semi-panicked voice.

"Stop sitting on me Muckmaw, that's cheating!"

She'd look around, reorienting herself again, because this didn't seem like... Oh right, it was just a dream. Memories of another time, in the wrappings of peaceful rest, whilst this were the reality, in which she had just blurted out something dumb.

Well, that was embarrassing, but then again, lest she weren't drooling this time. She'd take that as a win.

"Oh hey, good morning."

She'd grin up, detach herself, and stretch herself out. Starting from the tail and all the way up to a pleased yawn, and a smack snap from her jaw.

"So, anything tried eating us overnight?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Yeah, I only really mentioned the wine as an option. It's not something for the feint of heart.

And don't get me wrong, I didn't like going through the process. There's really no way to explain what it's like, being a completely emotionless husk, but it ain't good.

But what were done were done, and I will admit to have been a bit elated by power probably, when I bent the knee. Still, I prefer my life after. Back in the human world, it was dreadful in comparison. Just an endless struggle day in and day out, trying my very best, and for what? A roof over my head, a field, and modest means. No chance I'd ever get to compete with the big vineyards.

Here? Here it feels like I'm free, and more than just some cog in a wheel that no one cares about. Rest that happened is just acceptance, adaption, and being thankful for what I've gotten and have, instead of what I've lost."

He'd give a cheeky grin. Being transformed like that were a dreadful experience, and not something that all could accept. But maybe turning out like he did, did speak somewhat to the part of him that always wished like he'd have some level of power. A way to lift the boot that others so happily placed on his neck. Getting magic did that, and having to bend the knee? He didn't have to. He could have taken off, and yes, they would've done theirs to stop him, but it were still technically an option. But staying, he'd learn, get stronger, and see what else were with that peculiar mare, with who gazed upon him with such triumphant delight. That were more than he'd get if he met the queen where he came from. He'd likely just have a guard push him aside for being in the way.

"Sounds like you're adapting and accepting things plenty well. Can't change anything, and it's plenty fine to mourn it, but it's good to look forward too. Can't sit and marinade in doom and gloom all day, over something you ain't able to do anything about anyway.

Heh, I can see why my queen's taking an interest in you folks. You're her sort of people. Not literally, but y'know what I mean.

The technological stuff's something that's intriguing to me. You say those upgrades you got there were literal trash? Dang. Where I'm from, you'd be hailed an ingenious prodigy, for making something that worked like that."

"Don't get him started, or he will talk about tractors again."

Onache would suddenly speak, though she didn't move. Happy got a jolt through him though, and he'd turn all flustered, to look at his queen.

"Onache, you're awake!"

"Have been for a few minutes, yes. It's... Unpleasant. I do not need to hear another lectures about agriculture to make it worse."

Her voice were tired, but she mustered to put strength into it, and speak clearly, not wanting to sound weak in front of them.

"I'll stop, promise."

Happy had a streak of tears going down his face. She'd roll her eyes if she could see him right now, but he didn't care. She were awake, and that were what mattered to him. And truthfully, she were happy that he were there. It were nice not feeling fully abandoned. Like her hive had done before, barring Happy. The one who had the least reason to stay loyal, and yet the one she had always been able to count on, even when she didn't ask.

"Urgh... What happened, Happy? I recall a sharp pain, and then nothing."

"You were poisoned by a changeling-specific fungal infection. Thankfully they got you here fast, and we have a good doctor on hoof, so we got you cleared out, without any incident.

There's some tests we need to do, but take your time. There's no rush."

Heck, she wasn't even working right now, and she wanted to see what would happen here, so she wasn't gonna rush anything.

"Truly? How droll. I suppose a thank you is in order then, for your assistance in the matter. I owe you a favor, Trox and Sheska. Many in your situation would have been perfectly fine with me perishing on the street."

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
Solar had nothing else, and he too proceeded to do work, going through the various pieces of miscellaneous technology that had found its way to the office, this time also marking spots on a paper map. This went on for some uneventful while, until suddenly at one point he jumped as if spooked by something; he didn't make any sound, but the sound of his metal legs moving against the floor were notable break in the almost total silence. After this he just stood there for a moment, his eyes unfocused and posture stiff, unresponsive, before speaking in rather annoyed tone to nobody in particular "What do you mean unauthorized? It's my system." he then again stood silent for few seconds before blurting out "How about this for unauthorized?" and pulled off his horn, or more specifically, screwed it off its socket. This all happened inside 20 to 30 seconds.

After this, assuming she was still in the room and hadn't ran away to get somebody, Solar would look towards Magma "My apologies if I startled you, it seems I had missed one receiver, and was hit with an emergency signal." "Turns out I can't just turn off that one." "But it's nothing I can't fix, just bit of tinkering." 

-----

"Ha!" Ruby let out to Leviathan's suggestion "As if she can be attracted to anything but her own reflection." "It is possible however that our fathers are still alive, because while our mother does treat the whole thing 'like a mantis' as you said, she never directly stated that she killed my father, I'd imagine she'd have shown his skull to me if she had it." "Magic could have allowed him to flee." while she had stated that she didn't much care, she had clearly thought about it. "For respect, I do not know if she is capable of such, but what I do know, is that she is the one who taught me to despise magic, so I doubt she'd ever respect it." she was also a hypocrite, so Ruby didn't put it past her to just lie about her opinions on magic, however, Ruby did believe it to be genuine, as in hindsight, her mothers words held more spite behind them than usual when she spoke of magic. 

Ruby looked down at Leviathan wrapped around her leg, not really sure how to feel about it, part of her, a part she still couldn't fully understand, felt...warm? happy? but other part of still felt weird about it, wanted to shun it, to shun this...weakness. However, the latter side was getting weaker by the day, the once confident dominance of it was fading, and was replaced with desperate excuses of reassurance, like the pitiful whining of a fallen might. 

She blinked at Leviathan's sudden reaction, but didn't react much beyond that "Morning." she responded, in slightly softer than usual tone, though the usual coldness was still very apparent "Nothing, it's almost hard to believe something this peaceful exists this close to the homelands." she stated as she too got up and stretched, Charir also got up, he had been awake for a while like his sister, but had decided to keep resting until the others got up. "Was 'Muckmaw' one of the dogs? Quite the unfortunate name if you ask me." Charir went right away into the water to look for some breakfast "Get something to eat if you need it, we'll leave in an hour." 

------

Considering how insects and hives usually went, arguably Happy was still a cog in a wheel, but it was all matter of perspective, and the twins for sure wouldn't blame him, after all, Kobolds took pride in being but a piece of a bigger whole; but the key there was probably the part about caring, because kobolds, and no doubt changelings, cared for those parts in turn. 

The kobolds turned their heads towards Onache when they heard her speak, positively surprised she was awake; there had probably been some signs that indicated such, and usually Sheska would have picked up on them, but as they had kept a respectful distance from Onache, and Sheska was focused on Happy. she hadn't looked for such signs. Sheska showed bit of amusement and playfully poked Trox with her elbow after Onache's lecture comment, as Trox also had a habit to go lectures, though in his case it was about the history and evolution of cybernetics...not that Sheska was fully innocent either, as she often went on long talks about things relating to medicine. 

"You helped us first, so I'd say we are even." Trox stated "Besides, kobolds never leave allies behind, and as a healer, I'd be damned to just leave somebody like that." "Though it would be a miss to not mention Chega's and Sear's part in this, we wouldn't have been able to move you so quickly without them." mainly it was Sear, because while Onache wasn't massive per say, to three kobolds it would have still been a challenge. 

"We also figured out who did this to you, Oni was it called?, a sort of a ghost kitsune." "It was angry that we helped that pony couple, so it came after us; a guard was also sent to the hospital after it possessed her and tried to kill me." "Long story short, it has been dealt with thanks to few kitsune we met." "It was angry towards me specifically, so I apologize for you becoming collateral, I should have seen something like this coming." 

 

 

 

 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-11-21 at 10:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I have listened to you sleep several times. It have mostly just been noises, and random words, after Lin stopped possessing you. I think you said that it haunted you, that you could not find her, yes? But I still listen sometimes. Hearing if there are something special you say. That is what happened when you woke up the last time, and I was looking at you. Shrimp fell halfway down on you, so I did not move.

It sounds like you do not want me to say what you have said though? Okay. I can do that."

“Thanks. I appreciate it.”

“Aww, why do you have to ruin it…. Don’t worry, Omen; I understand if you don’t want to say it. Besides, not being able to sleep means I get to watch him with you while he sleeps! You’re not getting away that easily, Sen!”

“Ugh… Please don’t make it awkward. I still have to sleep, you know.”

Sen covered his face with one hoof, exasperated that this was something Lin would turn into an evening pastime. He trusted Omen with discretion, but Lin would probably turn this into a collection of embarrassing moments that she would hold over him.

However, Lin was aware that Sen was plagued with nightmares for a long time, and that he developed a habit of talking in his sleep. What Omen said about the nightmares haunted him; making light of that was a low blow and a line she wouldn’t cross. It was bad enough for him to relive those terrible memories, and she wouldn’t add more to it by making light of his grief despite his nightmares lessening.

On 2024-11-21 at 10:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"When we know where it is, we can open gates between there, and here. So we can return when the elders are done with us. You will know what happened before many others.

 

...I wonder if it goes well, they will take one of your gates back here, Lin? Yours is fast. It could be helpful."

“Honestly? I have no idea what will happen. Whether things go well or not… it may best to handle that when we get there. I don’t really want to jump ahead and decide, but yes, we can take my gates back home. It’ll be faster for us, and I’m sure Elder Ghilan would appreciate quick travel.”

“If things go bad, we should be ready to act, but let’s hope things don’t go there.”

Lin had some suspicions that things wouldn’t go smoothly, but it was more of an expectation. Complications were expected, but she didn’t have a high opinion of the elders in general; something going wrong was just par for the course. Sen’s more hidden prejudices toward longma authority could rear up, and the major obstacle for them, aside from convincing the elders to take their words to heart, was to keep their tempers in check.

But this speculation was academic, and only time would tell if things would truly go well or devolve into something worse.

“Hey, I appreciate getting to hear the news sooner than others, but I doubt there will be more to say if we all just stayed here and talked. Go on! I am certain you have other places to be.”

With that, Zo was ready to part, wishing the group farewell. There would still be enough time for Sen, Lin, and Omen to go around town to secure some supplies or meet with anyone else in the village. The mornings were busy, and today was no different. One listening in to the chatter around the place had some commenting on a possible storm coming in, prompting some preparations from those present.

On 2024-11-21 at 10:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Disembodied voices you say? Might I inquire on how you ended in your current state actually? I'm sure there's an interesting story about that."

"Why, their vessel fell into my possession, of course. These bodies of theirs, were uncovered then during one of the digs that I finance, and while I did intend for them to be great artifacts for the museum, learning of their owners changed plans. The rest were simply to have them brought to their bodies. Sadly I were not there to see their awakening, but I can imagine it must have been quite an event in the moment, to suddenly have agency such as this again.

Aah how I wish I could have seen it, but it were much too dangerous and out of place for me. Yet I feel fortunate that I still get to show them around now."

"A fortuitous turn of events. Can't say I would trust any graverobber to not simply have held the bodies hostage."

Though the golems planned to explain, even come clean as to the truth behind their current condition and the history that led to them in their state, Scriniarii looked to the others and gave them a slight nod; no words needed to be said to let Scarcity just talk. It was sufficient to avoid bringing up the whole situation to Rusty, and he sounded convinced of what the mare told him. They had a cover story to keep, and they would just stick to it, though a few sprinkles of information wouldn’t hurt. 

“It was a trying time, returning to a conscious state without a physical form. Having to go through it again and again eventually caused us to no longer sense the passage of time normally. Even then, we felt our senses slip a little at a time that even memories and identity started to fade.”

“I suppose it is fortunate that we can still remember aspects of ourselves when we awaken. Even when our old skills would not completely carry over, who we were remain.”

On 2024-11-21 at 10:27 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I agree with how your scholars looked at things. It's not good to see something you don't understand, and try to avoid or destroy it. We never learn, if we don't try to understand. Even if it sometimes cause problems.

There's still plenty around that feels like that. Maybe you will blend well with them. I'm sure you have some perspectives that they wouldn't have normally, considering your history. I'm not much into those circles, so I don't know exactly. Too much talking, and not enough action, you know? Which is fine, but just not my kind of thing."

The golems’ attention was fixated on the mimic now, with Magus carefully watching the creature as he lowered the barrier. So far so good, though the others were ready to act in case they were needed. Good thing Mystril was readily watching and moving based on the situation, as it was now firmly under control. Perhaps calling for security wouldn’t be necessary.

“It is - was - an aspect of our time. Debates with other scholars were frequent; when we studied, oration was part of the curriculum, and we were sometimes expected to debate among students or teachers. Sometimes, grand symposiums were organized to discuss new ideas.”

“Hmph, more often than not, those ended up devolving into shouting matches. Heated exchanges sometimes ended with one wrestling another to the ground in an attempt to disprove new knowledge. Do you remember that, Scriniarii?”

“You should have seen it! Public symposiums ended up becoming spectacles in their own right when a crowd of onlookers showed up and made bets on the side. Even now I wonder how anyone could advance knowledge under those circumstances!”

The golem let out a faint chuckle, causing the others to grow quiet at their own experiences. It didn’t need to be said, but the looks on their faces suggest that they may have seen… or have been involved… in their personal squabbles among other scholars. It was something unbecoming of them, but they were young and full of energy once.

“It makes me wish for more civilized discussions. If you were to take one lesson from us today, Mystril, it is this: heated discussions about scholarly topics that end in brawls aren’t worth it. It’s not exactly effective or enticing academic peer review, especially when your peers are ready to fight you.”

Scriniarii turned to Rusty, also addressing his fellow golems’ recollection to him as well. Things may very well be different in this era, though the mental image of dignified scholars beating each other up over academic disagreements could be seen as chuckle-worthy to some. An odd sight to be sure, but claims of the Hyracotherians’ society being a civilized one could be dispelled with this tale. 

“I suppose this means the mimic situation here is resolved, right? Maybe we could have a look at the exhibits. In your opinion, if there is one thing in the museum that all guests should see, what would it be?”

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Catpone Cerberus

She'd observe her boss as he went through whatever it were that he were. She assumed some sort of transceiver, judging by everything, but she were not a technological pony. She were more of a biologist and chemist, and as such, she could at best observe, and see if there were something for her to learn here, for another time in the future. There didn't seem to be something for her to fear currently, and in case he were about to be corrupted, she had her orders. Running off would make things worse.

When it were done, and he gave an explanation though, she looked at him, uncertain of the meaning and implication of what it were that he had just told her. At least it appeared he were still at his full faculties, s that were good, but beyond that...

"I'm sorry sir, but could you perhaps elaborate somewhat? From my perspective as a non-technologically inclined pony, it looked as if something were causing you a system interference. As you appear at your full mental capacity, I am assuming it means nothing overly nefarious, but that leads me to something that seems concerning: That emergency beacon you mention. It must be something from your world then, in that case? Still-functioning tech that can cause interference with you, does not sound secure.

Is there something to worry about with this, sir?"

It didn't sound like it, but he had uttered before that he did not have authority for something, in his own system. That were a concerning tidbit, that made her uncertain if this could become a larger issue.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-11-23 at 11:59 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Ha!" Ruby let out to Leviathan's suggestion "As if she can be attracted to anything but her own reflection." "It is possible however that our fathers are still alive, because while our mother does treat the whole thing 'like a mantis' as you said, she never directly stated that she killed my father, I'd imagine she'd have shown his skull to me if she had it." "Magic could have allowed him to flee." while she had stated that she didn't much care, she had clearly thought about it. "For respect, I do not know if she is capable of such, but what I do know, is that she is the one who taught me to despise magic, so I doubt she'd ever respect it." she was also a hypocrite, so Ruby didn't put it past her to just lie about her opinions on magic, however, Ruby did believe it to be genuine, as in hindsight, her mothers words held more spite behind them than usual when she spoke of magic. 

"Well, I hope you're wrong, because if you're right, seeing the daughter he were forced to make... Well, I only know the story from the point of my birth mother, but not all dragons take too well to bad mates, and can carry that grudge on to the kids."

Granted, her birth mother were an emotional, angry water aligned dragoness, whilst Ruby and hers seemed better in control of their emotions, but still, Leviathan didn't have full siblings, because her mom had smashed every egg she had with her dad, and then killed her dad, because he were unfaithful and uncaring. And it wasn't the first story she heard that had some undertones of that sorta thing, so it wasn't outside possibility that there could be something like this here, and on seeing Ruby, her father would try and kill her.

That said, her own story only involved violence against unhatched eggs, and her father, who frankly asked for it. When she had met her birth mother after she got older, it had started off with some growling and threats, but no outright attempt to kill her, and they were on speaking terms. Didn't go meet her often, but y'know, they were dragons. A recent visit could be thirty years ago. Longevity made things very relative, when it came to time.

On 2024-11-23 at 11:59 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby looked down at Leviathan wrapped around her leg, not really sure how to feel about it, part of her, a part she still couldn't fully understand, felt...warm? happy? but other part of still felt weird about it, wanted to shun it, to shun this...weakness. However, the latter side was getting weaker by the day, the once confident dominance of it was fading, and was replaced with desperate excuses of reassurance, like the pitiful whining of a fallen might. 

She blinked at Leviathan's sudden reaction, but didn't react much beyond that "Morning." she responded, in slightly softer than usual tone, though the usual coldness was still very apparent "Nothing, it's almost hard to believe something this peaceful exists this close to the homelands." she stated as she too got up and stretched, Charir also got up, he had been awake for a while like his sister, but had decided to keep resting until the others got up. "Was 'Muckmaw' one of the dogs? Quite the unfortunate name if you ask me." Charir went right away into the water to look for some breakfast "Get something to eat if you need it, we'll leave in an hour." 

"Diamond dogs, have weird names in general. I'm just lucky my mom named me something grand she'd seen in a book, because she thought I'd be giant and cool, and not something like *Puffer* or *Scaletail*.

And Muckmaw. Phew, he was a unit, lemme tell ya. Biggest pup around, and pretty much the de facto alpha among us younglings because of it, despite not being the pup of any of the pack leaders. Big hit with the girls too. Big and muscly, means good genes, and diamond dogs love that. It's not everything, but it definitely plays a part, and he got it all. Big build, big teeth, big heart.

But he also liked to sort disputed among the rest of us. His *job* as the alpha pup y'know. Usually a growl or a word would stop most, but sometimes he liked to have some fun, and that were on my behalf. So he'd bump into me, and then sit on my back. I wouldn't get hurt, but being pinned down by a big ol' pup, while the pack is laughing at you? It's a pain. I didn't know how to do magic proper then, so I could only defend myself physically, and he were twice my size.

Granted, most of the time, it were because I were getting a bit wild. I could still breathe fire, and I were the odd one there. I kept overcompensating to try and seem tough, and one with the pack. Though sometimes he did it because he claimed he needed somewhere soft to plant his butt.

Heh. Some of his descendants are still back int he old pack-grounds. They like hearing the old stories, and as a bonus, now I sometimes get to sit on one of them. Y'know, to make the story more authentic. Definitely not because it's funny, hehe."

The grin on her face said that she were lying about that part. It were definitely funny to her. Somewhat generational payback, if you would.

"Anyway, I'll go fish something up. Want me to toss you something?"

If Ruby said yes, she'd grab something for her too, but regardless, she'd jump into the sea, and dive down to capture something.

Seeing as Charir had gone to the water too, she'd end up swimming over to him, and making some circles around him, grinning widely, with gills flaring on both sides of her throat. She were well suited for the water, and swam in it gracefully. She were curious to see how he'd be hunting, and would give him some distance to observe, and stand ready, in case something big went up to try and chomp him.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2024-11-23 at 11:59 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"You helped us first, so I'd say we are even." Trox stated "Besides, kobolds never leave allies behind, and as a healer, I'd be damned to just leave somebody like that." "Though it would be a miss to not mention Chega's and Sear's part in this, we wouldn't have been able to move you so quickly without them." mainly it was Sear, because while Onache wasn't massive per say, to three kobolds it would have still been a challenge. 

"In that case, I still owe two favors. Not something I am fond of, but there are certain obligations one have, as a queen. Repaying help that saved the life of you, or your hive, are among the most notable. Though I care little to stay in debt. Such things have a tendency to be exchanged for annoying or costly favors, the longer it is held on to."

Her voice were stable, but you could hear how weakened she were, and she seemed to take a grand time to actually try and raise herself. Most likely gathering strength, so she wouldn't fall down on the attempt. Such a thing would be dreadfully embarrassing.

On 2024-11-23 at 11:59 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"We also figured out who did this to you, Oni was it called?, a sort of a ghost kitsune." "It was angry that we helped that pony couple, so it came after us; a guard was also sent to the hospital after it possessed her and tried to kill me." "Long story short, it has been dealt with thanks to few kitsune we met." "It was angry towards me specifically, so I apologize for you becoming collateral, I should have seen something like this coming." 

"Urgh, I never heard of an Oni before, but Kitsune is naught but trouble. Of course they are involved in something that ends like this."

With a deep breath, she'd raise herself, her legs showing a minor amount of shaking, that made Happy go nearer to her, but he wouldn't intervene, lest it seemed she might actually fall. Which thankfully she didn't, though she felt fatigued getting up into a sitting position, and internally grimaced at it. Being weak in an exposed area such as this, could be a death sentence for some changelings. She wouldn't be able to fend herself, and she had a bad reputation. Maybe not one that most in this area knew of, but what if one came in that did?

No, Happy would keep her safe, even at the expense of his own life. She knew this, though she hoped it wouldn't go that far, and that she would continue to be protected by the town laws, and common decency of the foo- Locals, until she could recover. Happy were not just her only drone left, he were also the one whom she trusted the most. There were a reason that she had faith that even after being away for months on scouting missions, he would return, having fulfilled his duties admirably, without wavering. Truth that were proven when after everything that had happened, he not only chose to remain loyal to her, but even went through this *redemption* change that they had to, after she put herself into a corner, dealing with that accursed sphinx.

A better outcome possibly, but still, she did not enjoy being left with little choice, and becoming this, without being given more time to ponder her options.

"Urgh... I blame you not for what happened. As I am to understand it, what were used on me, were for changelings specifically. If this *Oni* had that readied, you being there or not, would likely have made little difference in whatever I would be targeted or not. It is on myself, for not spreading a wider net, to gauge the location of malicious intent."

She'd halt, and put a hoof to her head. At which point Happy would come and pour a glass of water from the nearby desk to her, using his horn, and reach the glass towards her.

"Please don't strain yourself too much. You need time to regain your strength."

She'd drink the water slowly, while Neon would speak up, seeing her chance to interject something.

"I'm gonna go and grab Doctor Toxina, and let her know you're awake. She can explain the details better."

Originally she was gonna do this herself, but it were probably best to have their expert here. And it would give them a bit of privacy for about five minutes, just in case.

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

 

@EQ_Theta

On 2024-11-25 at 1:50 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Thanks. I appreciate it.”

“Aww, why do you have to ruin it…. Don’t worry, Omen; I understand if you don’t want to say it. Besides, not being able to sleep means I get to watch him with you while he sleeps! You’re not getting away that easily, Sen!”

“Ugh… Please don’t make it awkward. I still have to sleep, you know.”

"Sen asked me not to, so I will not. He is not my master, but I want to do as he asks me, because he is my friend.

I also want to do what you ask me, Lin, but I do not think that means to go against what Sen said first."

Omen did not grasp that Lin were just teasing him, for her own amusement. Humor were another alien concept to her, which she only really understood in whatever or not others were smiling or laughing. The feeling itself though, she couldn't pinpoint having tried herself. Perhaps someday, that would change. She wanted it to at least. Laughing seemed like a good thing, but whenever she tried, it did not sound right to her, and she didn't feel any different. Same when she tried to smile. It were just one more of those things that were seemingly out of her reach. At least for now, though she hoped that maybe, that would eventually change. Many strange things were happening these days, so perhaps it would one time be strange in way that made her closer to normal? That sounded nice to her.

On 2024-11-25 at 1:50 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Hey, I appreciate getting to hear the news sooner than others, but I doubt there will be more to say if we all just stayed here and talked. Go on! I am certain you have other places to be.”

"Not that I know off, but we can find someplace to go.

When there is news, we will return. Even if they try to keep them there. I will not let them.

Goodbye, Zo."

She would raise a hoof, and slowly wave towards Zo. It seemed like he had said what he wished to for now, and that it were time for them to move along. Though to where, she weren't sure.

"Are we going to talk to Rosa now, or someone else? Or are we leaving soon? Or are we going to go around town? I do not remember seeing a lot of it, even though you say I were here once."

Shrimp were still sleeping, so they could wander around with some degree of safety currently, providing the huntsmaster's apprentice didn't get any dumb ideas about trying to show them who was boss. Which wouldn't be him, but he didn't seem the type who liked when others worked against him, and Omen had been nothing but uncooperative towards him. Not enough for him to have a reason to try and kick her out probably, but it had to be irritating, for someone like him.

Of course, they could go see Rosa too. That were an option, in case they wanted to rendezvous with him, before the meeting. Could also be though, that they had other plans, or they were to leave sooner than Omen were aware of. She sometimes lost track of time, so it wasn't off the table that this would be the case. She sorta expected it would be, and they just had time to wander around, and take in the town, as well as make others get more familiar with Omen's presence. The more integrating she tried to do, the better perhaps. And some might remember her, and wanted to say hello. Who knew?

Yet before Zo took off, something occurred to Omen, that she wanted to bring up.

"...Zo? I have a question. If the meeting goes bad, and they try something against Sen and Lin, will they try and go after you too?"

On 2024-11-25 at 1:50 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Though the golems planned to explain, even come clean as to the truth behind their current condition and the history that led to them in their state, Scriniarii looked to the others and gave them a slight nod; no words needed to be said to let Scarcity just talk. It was sufficient to avoid bringing up the whole situation to Rusty, and he sounded convinced of what the mare told him. They had a cover story to keep, and they would just stick to it, though a few sprinkles of information wouldn’t hurt. 

“It was a trying time, returning to a conscious state without a physical form. Having to go through it again and again eventually caused us to no longer sense the passage of time normally. Even then, we felt our senses slip a little at a time that even memories and identity started to fade.”

“I suppose it is fortunate that we can still remember aspects of ourselves when we awaken. Even when our old skills would not completely carry over, who we were remain.”

"Very fortunate indeed. Certainly a harrowing thought, to have naught of what you were once to work with yet again. Even in diminished states, and needing practice in others, it must cause some degree of comfort to have certain familiarities. I for one don't think I could properly get through things for quite a while, were I one day to find myself unable to relate to what I were familiar with.

Same goes for your memories. I am aware that I may be somewhat biased, as I hope that we can learn from what you remember of your own time, but still, memories are part of the self. In many ways, who we are, are the culmination of our experiences, stored to memory. If those start to slip away, we begin to lose ourselves. Which is one of the worst fates I can imagine, I might add."

He were well aware that there were a way that could come to pass for him, as he grew older, but he tried to keep his mind sharp, and not dwell on this, his deepest fear. Best he could do, beyond simply having hope that his twilight years would be kind.

They would have likely felt that to some extend it sounded like. Losing memories, after all that time, separated from autonomy... Absolutely dreadful that were. Good for them, that they had been found, and united with bodies that had been prepared for them, but seemingly never used. They were lucky, albeit their luck hadn't exactly come with any degree of speed. The amount of time they had to endure were longer than many notable civilizations, and many entire species, that were considered so common now, that a time without them seemed nearly unimaginable.

On 2024-11-25 at 1:50 PM, EQ_Theta said:

.

“It makes me wish for more civilized discussions. If you were to take one lesson from us today, Mystril, it is this: heated discussions about scholarly topics that end in brawls aren’t worth it. It’s not exactly effective or enticing academic peer review, especially when your peers are ready to fight you.”

"Well, it might not be the most civilized, but I have seen times when it have helped to get something done."

Rusty wriggled his mustache a bit in a low chuckle, before he noticed Mystril giving him a raised eyebrow.

"Academia is comprised of many scholars who tend to have each their own ideas, and want to put them forth first. Especially if funding is in question. And if there's so established social hierarchy, or it seems unreasonable, a pecking order have to be made. And there have indeed been times where whacking a dozen or so with a Lexicana Symphonia, or other heavier tomes, can give a certain degree of peace. It helps establish a pecking order.

It weren't often though. Doctor Mildew is a surprisingly effective brawler, and more than capable of asserting herself. It have helped to ease tensions before they go too high at times."

"Mildew... Isn't that the shy, frail-looking mare that sometimes comes in to discuss ancient botany with Professor Fieldings?"

"You don't have to hit the hardest, just the smartest. Though don't get me wrong, brawls doesn't usually go into account, at the sort of gatherings I have in mind. It is a rarity, but social structure doesn't work well, if there's no direct leadership, and enough frustrations or boredom arises. Even the taught can find themselves embracing their more animalistic tendencies.

In general though, I do agree it is best not to, and speak rationally to one another instead."

"I... Suppose you both make sense about this. I don't much care for fighting, if I can avoid it. Nor for symposiums or other smart gatherings. I man no offense, but they're kinda... Boring and tedious to sit through."

"Well, I can understand that. There is a degree of tedium in these things."

On 2024-11-25 at 1:50 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I suppose this means the mimic situation here is resolved, right? Maybe we could have a look at the exhibits. In your opinion, if there is one thing in the museum that all guests should see, what would it be?”

"I'll stay here, and just make sure that it's calmed down. A bit of peace might do it good too, after it's eaten."

"I would have asked you to, so thank you for offering in advance, Mystril.

As for what to see? I believe the crown jewel would be a marker of historical significance. The *Living Mural of Unity* as it have been dubbed. A marvelous creation of the princesses, long ago, to commemorate the event that unified the equine races, and made the foundation of the Equestria you now wander. Much as I would find several mysterious, ancient civilizations interesting and worth seeing, the mural is certainly the thing to see, if one are new to our country. It is also the very first thing, that ever entered the museum, as a matter of fact. Princess Celestia had it moved here from the old castle, shortly after the uhm... Unfortunate incident with Princess Luna, and the museum were built around it.

Soon as you are ready, I can lead you there, and leave Mystril with some time to get more acquainted with her new pet."

He didn't think it were overly safe, but she seemed to know more about these things than they did, so he would try and put some faith in her, being able to deal with things herself. Though if he were wrong, he'd never be able to forgive himself, so he hoped that his trust and faith weren't misplaced.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,594]

@Blitz Boom
"Not knowing the source yet, I cannot definitely say it poses no issue as a whole; But when it comes to myself, it is merely an inconvenience." Solar explained as he took out few basic tools and opened up the horn; He used his wings since his magic was currently unreliable due to lack of horn "As part of the default systems all of our world's soldiers get, there are various receivers and the like to enable wireless connections to various things." "This includes those that could in theory be used to take control of my systems remotely by the empire." "I have removed and deactivated most of those." he spoke as he worked on the horn "This one is bit different; While the others require constant connection to work, as they move information both ways, the emergency system has the information built-in, and the signal only brings a specific trigger." "That way the message can get through even if the infrastructure is damaged." 

"I knew mine was still active, as I hadn't yet located it, and didn't see it as high priority because it cannot be used to access my systems on deeper level; I wasn't aware I can't turn the alarm off myself." He pulled a small piece of technology out of the horn and started putting the horn back together "Imagine constantly seeing flashing text in your field of view, even with eyes closed, and a voice telling you to do something; That's what I experienced." he was thoughtful for a moment "It does also mean that I need to look more into any other possible limitation in my access to my own systems." 

"The bigger concern is why and how the signal reached me." "As I do not fully understand the workings of travel between worlds, it is possible that only the signal made it through. But it is very unlikely, because the idea that a single rogue signal would just happen to reach me is simply ridiculous." "So it is likely that something or someone has made it through again, close enough for such a signal to reach me." "Most likely something, as I am unable to find the signal with my other systems, which suggests that whatever sent it has gone offline." "Because with how many fail-safes for fail-safes our systems had, only way for such an instant loss of power to happen is if it was something with external power source that lost connection to said power source." 

Solar screwed his horn back on, his eyes going unfocused as he ran system analytics and the like, but he kept speaking "Then there's the message itself, it was the highest authority, from the capital." "Capital is under attack, and they are requesting backup" "Though it's less a request and more an order."  "I need to locate whatever sent it for analysis." 

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

"It has been two centuries, and he probably wouldn't even know I exist." Knowing her mother, even if she had let her father get away, she for sure would have not let him see Ruby, or even her egg in that matter. "Besides, wouldn't be the only parent wanting me dead." Ruby concluded, in her mind, if her father wanted her dead, he would have tried it already. 

 

"I sometimes wonder what my life would be like if I had siblings to grow up with, a pack even, if I learned to fight with someone more equal, rather than my mother." "But as awful as she was, she was right in many aspects when it comes to life in the homelands; she prepared me for it well." Ruby spoke thoughtfully, before relaxing a bit in tone "Scaletail, that sounds like something my kind would name their offspring 'Ternock Jaxo'." "I may find a name such as Muckmaw bizarre, due to how almost degrading it sounds, but I'm not one to claim that we are any better." She gestured towards Charir "After all, we call him 'Red'." As Leviathan may remember from the time they 'named' Charir, Ruby had explained that their kind's names tend to be color + a word, her own name given by her mother being 'Red Gem'; though important detail was that for them names were subject to change, as they either earned a nickname or named themselves, and sometimes they could have several names, based on who talked to them.
Ruby declined the offer with simple "No need." 

Charir, like Ruby, was not built for aquatic hunting, and it was clear from how he moved, but he managed enough for what he wanted; He noticed Leviathan, but couldn't give her much more than acknowledging nod, as he had to focus on not drowning; he would have liked to watch her swim around, but he could hold his breath only so long, especially since he constantly pushed tiny bit of air out to keep his nostrils free of water. 

He was scanning the bottom for crabs and any other bottom dwelling creatures, as catching something that swam was wishful thinking at the absolute best, and when he saw an area with movement, he used his wings to get himself to the bottom, where he then sank his claws on the ocean floor to get a grip, and started pulling himself forward in surprisingly skillful manner. He filled his mouth with crabs and other unfortunate creatures, among some sand and water, and then 'ran' along the bottom towards land, spitting out everything and taking deep breaths after reaching the beach.

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

"While we of course can't speak for them, knowing Chega, you trusting her with your story like you did is enough of a favor for her." Sheska mentioned in almost amused manner, while Trox continued in more serious tone "And generally speaking, we kobolds don't really do favors in that way, to us helping our own is an expectation, and while it's bit different towards non-kobolds, the same principle exist there." In other word, they didn't keep count on favors, though at the same time, they weren't stupid, so they did catch on if someone was trying to use them. 

 

"That part is still puzzling us a bit in full honesty, not only did we not get motive for stabbing those random ponies, but why did something like Oni have something like that with it." "Especially since it could clearly take down creatures by just possessing them for a bit." "It also tried all kinds of traps against us instead of direct action until Sheska was alone." "Even then it possessed a pony instead of just attacking me." 

When Neon left, the kobolds brought something else up "There's something else you should probably know." "Firstly, we were not the only ones to come with that prison that now sits in your basement." "It turns out that a distant relative of ours was visiting when it got transported; she most likely sneaked out of your hive between the arrival and you coming to investigate." "And second, you remember that metal guard that keeps pestering us?" "He told us to tell you that the bodies that came with us have been removed, and claimed he did it without entering your hive." they were planning to tell it to Happy or later when Onache was healed, to her, but they couldn't be sure when they would get a chance again, so they figured they should bring it up now, even if Sheska agreed with Happy in that Onache really should not strain herself. 

 

 

[EQ_Theta 459]

@Blitz Boom

On 2024-12-04 at 8:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Sen asked me not to, so I will not. He is not my master, but I want to do as he asks me, because he is my friend.

I also want to do what you ask me, Lin, but I do not think that means to go against what Sen said first."

“Eh, no worries! I’m just messing with Sen. It’s not like I’ll do anything troublesome, right?”

Lin shot a very mischievous grin toward her brother, attempting to keep him a little on edge. She even raised her brows, though it wouldn’t go any further than playful ribbing… probably. The longma got a good laugh out of it, so it was enough. As for Sen, this kind of teasing wasn’t exactly normal for his sister, but seeing her in good spirits was an upside, so he’d let her off with nothing more to add. 

It was time to go, though not yet for the longer journey ahead. Sen had to quickly grab something from their home before they headed off to their next stop. For the moment, it was just Omen and Lin at their grandfather’s hut, and a rather odd question was raised.

On 2024-12-04 at 8:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"...Zo? I have a question. If the meeting goes bad, and they try something against Sen and Lin, will they try and go after you too?"

Unexpected as far as topics could get, but it was still a grim idea. Even the elderly longma couldn’t find himself able to answer it adequately. He’d still try to keep up his spirits as if the question’s implications didn’t affect him, yet it was a reminder of what happened all those years ago. 

“Tch, I doubt the other elders would try anything against me. I mean, what do they have to gain by going after the elderly?”

“It’s not something to take lightly, grandfather! You know mother and father were taken away from us. Going after you is not out of the question.”

“If the elders will have any grievances, it will be directly related to you. The way I see it, you’re doing something new and pushing for something completely unknown. The harder you push, the harder the other elders will try to push back, maybe violently. It is why you should try helping them understand. The elders would not think to try going after me. I am old, and them trying anything on me will make them look incredibly petty. No reason to worry about them going after me; I will manage.”

The elderly longma placed one claw over Lin’s and Omen’s shoulders, imparting his words to them as well as the assurance that they do not need to worry about him. To Zo, the elders would look silly trying to go after someone unrelated to the meeting between them and the siblings and Omen. They could try making something up, but it is up in the air whether anyone will take them at their word just because they said so. 

It wouldn’t be long until Sen returned, saddle bag resting comfortably on his back. Grandfather Zo didn’t feel the need to repeat his whole spiel on being careful and sending off his grandchildren in case they needed to do something elsewhere. That said, he stood by and waited until everyone was ready to go. 

“I’m back. I just needed to quickly grab some things. I was hoping we could visit Mother for a while and let her know what has been happening lately. And I also wanted to bring some things for her from the carnival we visited with Rosa.”

“Sounds good. Looks like we’ve got our next stop, Omen. Shall we go?” Lin opened a gate to Mother’s realm before their grandfather’s hut once everyone was ready to step through. As much as things were already looking strange in the village, the elderly longma still couldn't get used to this feeling. He'd simply stand by to see everyone off, even awkwardly waving one claw in the air in an attempt to mimic what Omen did when she waved her hoof.

On 2024-12-04 at 8:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Very fortunate indeed. Certainly a harrowing thought, to have naught of what you were once to work with yet again. Even in diminished states, and needing practice in others, it must cause some degree of comfort to have certain familiarities. I for one don't think I could properly get through things for quite a while, were I one day to find myself unable to relate to what I were familiar with.

Same goes for your memories. I am aware that I may be somewhat biased, as I hope that we can learn from what you remember of your own time, but still, memories are part of the self. In many ways, who we are, are the culmination of our experiences, stored to memory. If those start to slip away, we begin to lose ourselves. Which is one of the worst fates I can imagine, I might add."

The golems felt a kindly assurance from Rusty, and perhaps in this age as a whole. It seemed that there was a warmth in this time that was only fleeting in the years between now and their age’s extinction. The feeling was odd yet calming, a blessing in the form of accommodating souls. 

“There are times when we long for an age that can no longer come back, I consider this meeting among ourselves to be fortunate. We can learn from you as you hope to learn from us; that is always something positive to look forward to regardless of the ear. After all, nothing can change what has already come to pass, but changing what is to come is a possibility.”

“That and being able to forge a path forward with those we meet keeps us grounded. We may not have all of our old memories, but I’d say making new ones is a fair and interesting trade-off.”

On 2024-12-04 at 8:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I'll stay here, and just make sure that it's calmed down. A bit of peace might do it good too, after it's eaten."

"I would have asked you to, so thank you for offering in advance, Mystril.

As for what to see? I believe the crown jewel would be a marker of historical significance. The *Living Mural of Unity* as it have been dubbed. A marvelous creation of the princesses, long ago, to commemorate the event that unified the equine races, and made the foundation of the Equestria you now wander. Much as I would find several mysterious, ancient civilizations interesting and worth seeing, the mural is certainly the thing to see, if one are new to our country. It is also the very first thing, that ever entered the museum, as a matter of fact. Princess Celestia had it moved here from the old castle, shortly after the uhm... Unfortunate incident with Princess Luna, and the museum were built around it.

Soon as you are ready, I can lead you there, and leave Mystril with some time to get more acquainted with her new pet."

With the mimic situation resolved, and the golems not having much more to add to their awkward history of violence in academia, they were just about ready to see more in the museum. A place like this didn’t exist in their time, but having such a building dedicated to preserving and understanding history was a pleasant discovery. Now an opportunity to learn about Equestria’s history? That is something the golems wouldn’t pass up. 

“We shall follow your suggestions, Rusty. The mural sounds like an excellent piece to see, and we’d love to hear more about the princesses and their history. Let us proceed, and Mystril? It was an honor to meet you.”

The golems all bowed toward the griffon, delighted in their meeting and confident that the mimic was now in good care.

“Truth be told, we have heard a little bit of Equestria’s history, though it involved Discord and his chaos taking the world. We haven’t learned much about the princesses. Is it right for us to speculate that Princess Celestia and Luna had a hoof in the unification of the equine races?”

Edited December 10 by EQ_Theta