open Casual stroll

[Rising Dusk 24,746]

@Blitz Boom

A cozy room it was.  Rising could understand why it'd be a good place for one to clear their minds, away from the daily toil of ruling a nation such as Harrowmark.  He'd explored more in the realm of royalty here in the few hours they'd been here than in all of Canterlot Castle.  It was a wonder if the Celestial Sisters had such a room.  The room reminded the detective of his father's study, far be it a much, much less cluttered study.  But it was the feeling of relaxation in a familiar room that mattered the most.  The hours spent being read books on their father's lap by a roaring fireplace late into the evenings while they offered empty promises of 'just one more chapter' to a mother that wished them to bed.

The room even came complete with enchanted trays.  Magic Dump Waiters really.  Short range teleportation points for small objects or meals to be send back and forth.  Yet another well built thought to keep the Queen in her cozy room without the need to interact at any real degree.  And here they were, murking it up with their presence.  Alright, probably a harsh estimate as they were just visitors and had no real plans on staying long enough to ruin the room.  Grace and Star took up seats near the smokeless fireplace, enjoying each other's company in their moment of peace from the festivities and information overload.  Dawn and Rising stood ready to receive their own group of visitors.

"Hello again to you as well," Dawn greeted the downtrodden mare.  She did look a little better, all things considered, but it would take a good deal of time to real any sense of normal.  All in a new home.  A new start.  "Too long?  Only a few hours is too long?" Dawn couldn't help but chuckle.  It appears they had made a good impression on Carmel to say the least.  "It's been an experience," Rising responded to Willow's inquiry.  "Definitely kept us on our hoofs.  But it has been a wonderful experience.  And the Prince here has promised that it has yet to reach an end," the sister smiled.

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@Rising Dusk

"Well, your hours have been filled with experiences and sights. Ours were quite a bit more muted, and so, it did not go along as quickly. Still, we have been spending it well, preparing for the afterparty, as it were.

I can imagine you'd like to inspect our belongings before we cross borders with them though, hm? Feel free to, though such banalities can wait for now. It is best that you get a rest, before the next stage."

"Yes, I do agree. It it best that all get a breather, before our honored guests move on with the final parts of this joyous day."

"It is good to h-hear that someone have had one, at least..."

Sure they had been taken care of well enough. Both Caramel and her, had been fed, and been accommodated as well as one could be, considering they had to be hidden, but it were not the same as being out there, where the roar of celebration sometimes reached a peak, where they could hear it in the side rooms, and old tunnels they had to use.

They had also gotten help getting their belongings here to the castle. The stuff that weren't given out to others, or burned that were, though the latter were mostly regarding a few things that Caramel owned. Certain things had been kept for.... Investigative purposes, and were best disposed of properly, before she left. Most were either packed, or given out though. She primarily had taken plants, seeds, and alchemical gear with her, along with some raw gold, to have a cash influx from the start, to get some necessities, and roof over their heads. Nothing that she believed the detective would find abhorrent, though he'd have to evaluate for himself later.

It were a fair bit less for Will-O. She hadn't much to begin with, and between Caramel letting her know that she shouldn't take old, ruined clothes or bed linen with her, some things being too big, etc. she had barely enough to fill one saddle bag. Most in her possession, were reminders. Including one from the mother she had never known, that made her feel conflicted to hold now, after learning of her heritage. Knowledge that she wish had never been imparted upon her, even if she understood why Caramel had brought it forth. It were safer for her this way. Safer for her home too, where she knew that some would stand on her side, and could end up being judged from it. This was the best way to keep everyone she cared about, out of danger. Her last act as a town guard.

Still, it were not easy for her, and she had several times just fallen unto the floor crying, wishing this were but a nightmare, from which she would wake up, or that the goddess would swoop in, and rob her of the memories, from what she knew. But there were no relief. No way back. At this point, it would have been officially announced that she had been banished. Soon enough, her home would be put to the torch, once they learned who *The grandfoal of Twisted* were. Her friends, the things she left behind... They would be allowed to remain. The queen would have made sure to let them know that the unnamed equine had not been aware of their heritage, and had already been properly scrutinized by the spy master himself. As well as saying that the banishment were voluntary, as they too wanted to close this chapter for the kingdom. A lie, but one that would sell sympathy better. The scattered voices trying to start uproar over letting her get away, would have been shut down after that, with biting words, from their queen. She were an intimidating presence, when she wished to be, and would make sure to get her points across.

Equestria sounded nice. Lily had told her things at this point. Not a lot, as she did not want to be anywhere near Le Pourri, for longer than she had to, but enough to tell her about it being a bright, warm place. A place she'd end up feeling welcome and safe.

*sigh* But it wasn't home, and they didn't do things the way she were used to. The culture were alien to their own, and things were so far ahead, that she would likely feel plucked out of time there. But that were her future now, right? There weren't much of a choice, except defying the banishment, but that would just lead the bloodshed, and she couldn't do that to those she cared about.

At least she had Caramel with her... Lily might not trust her, but Will-O knew there was more to that. Lily had known the actual Caramel. The chippy, warm baker of Oaksbrook, that wouldn't even know how to fight off a scarecrow, much less the horrors that sometimes assaulted their town. She were biased in her view of Caramel as she were now, after Le Pourri had taken over. Will-O... She could understand it, and the stories about Le Pourri were... Not encouraging, but as she were now, she had helped protect the village, in near a decade. This were her friend as it were, and crafty as she were, more than anything, Will-O needed that. Sure she'd have Chirpy too - Hopefully at least, as he had been patched up proper, so he could likely pass off as being alive if you didn't know better - but someone who could talk to her, were different. That she also were the only one of them with any real valuables, and a plan in mind already, were also helping certainly. She hoped Rising would vouch for them, but they still had to find a way to make it once there, and earn their keep.

She wasn't sure what she were going to do though. Her mind had been occupied with other thoughts, but eventually, she'd have to think of something. Maybe there were a need for a village protector of some sort, near where they'd go? It were hard to say for now.

Will-O would set down her bags, go towards one of the comfy chairs, and have a seat. They could ask her a few questions, but eventually, she'd snooze off, with a hoof around Chirpy, as if he were some sort of stuffed teddy bear, that she'd cling to for comfort.

(a fine place to put in responses to her, if it were)

After she eventually would, Caramel would look worried towards her for a brief moment.

"Do forgive her for that. Life have been rather tumultuous for her, since Rising were carried to our dour little village. Some rest would do her good.

While she gets a small rest, do tell how your day have been in details, if you would. We have been able to hear some of the festivities out there, so it is clear that things are moving along merrily. But were your trip grand? And what waits next?"

"There is but three things planned. The theater, dinner with Mother, and of course, the reveal of the statue of our newest hero."

"Splendid moments ahead then, and most more peaceful than what were before. The theater especially, is something you can look forward too. I've been there, through several lives, and they have mostly been enchanting to view. I can't say if the statues are the same. The last hero we had one for, were before my time, as were the removal of them from public view, but I recall being told it were delightful. I can imagine the stone matron would were pleased to be able to return them to their rightful places, and remove those ghastly ones that Twisted had put in place. They were quite the eye sore.

You haven't been assaulted yet now, have you? I can imagine the loyalists still out there, wouldn't be so brazen, but it is hard to know sometimes."

Caramel would put down her saddlebags carefully, and have a seat herself, so that she could overlook things, and enjoy the first, and likely last time, that she would be able to do this. Sure she hadn't been banished, but frankly, she looked forward to seeing new shores, and experience what Equestria had to offer.

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@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-08-27 at 12:32 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"Maybe we will meet him someday." "Stories are important to us kobolds, we are creatures of struggle, we aren't magically gifted like your kind, we are not physically strong like dragons, all we have is our persistence, our willingness to work together to go against impossible odds." "That is what I sing about, have always sang about, not individual heroes, not individual greatness, but the power of cooperation, the importance of community." "And even while on the quest for my own happiness, I'll never stop thinking of those I left behind, because above all else, I'm a kobold like them."  

"Way to dodge the praise" Sear commented with amused tone, gently patting the smaller lizard's head "But she's right, you're just too stubborn to admit it."

"Us kitsune are maybe strong now, but we have many tales, of what we have been through to get here. From the times when we were just starting to develop higher sentience, to needing to fight for our space in Neighpon, and our on and off struggles with the equines of our homelands. Of Oni and spirits, tradition made and origins thereof- There is much to tell, of long lived races, and through tomes or song, it can be memorized, and it can be taught, to those willing to learn.

It is rare among us, to find those wanting to wander the path of the bard, rather than the historian, when it comes to spreading the tales, but I can admire those wanting to do either, all the same. No matter the race, or what tales they have to tell, there is often much to learn from hearing the words of others, with an open mind."

Kitsune had a millennia old history, but they had a long path to get where they were now. Originally little more than forest-dwelling mischief makers, barely acting on more than instinct, to now being the traditional beings of notability they were now, the path were fraught with many ups and downs between those points. Even now, there were things they needed to worry about, and struggle with, such as poachers trying to trap their young to sell off as exotic pets. Or worse yet, be killed for parts and fur, because some Neighponese equines believed their parts to have mystical powers, that could somehow help them.

Thankfully it were far from all that wanted that, and often their young were saved and returned, if they were trapped. Either by them going and get them themselves - which were times when they did not hold back, and acted with fury and menace - or by others getting them back. Like that mare, Scarcity. A lovely one really, that had saved a whole batch from an auction, and got them home safely, as well as severely punishing the ones trying to sell them. Hadn't even asked for anything in return either. Ponies like that, were good allies to have, and though far from all went as far as she did, most were still against their kind getting trapped, and would do something. Which sadly just made their parts rarer, and thus more expensive, making them a higher valued target by poachers... It were a vicious cycle, albeit it were not as bad as it once were. Thankfully. None of them liked to remember the fur farming days, even if it were an important part of their history.

On 2023-08-27 at 12:32 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

For the question, the siblings shrugged "Same as before it started, we'll try to find our place in this world." "Settle down somewhere." "We didn't ask for it, but we have been given a second chance in life, so no point wasting it." "It may take a while to get used to peace, but we have no intent to pointlessly continue the circle of violence." "Though we do need to get certain unwanted family reunion out of the way first." 

Elder Rhugan didn't say anything more about the concept of fear. It seemed the siblings were well adjusted when it came to that, and didn't need her input on things. A healthy attitude one might even say, as fear were important, and you shouldn't try and deny it. Instead, you should overcome it, lest you became a victim of it.

"I'm sure you will find your place, and find brighter futures ahead. Perhaps what wisdom you have over others, could even come to some good use? I suppose only time will tell, though I do like your attitude about things."

How could one put it... Their attitude were nice and simple, were likely the best way to put it. Straight forward and thinking of the important things, without dawdling on things that were not important. That were something that she could respect.

She wasn't sure what were up with the family reunion part, but it sounded like a private matter that she shouldn't dig into. Often were, when it came to unpleasant family things. if they needed to vent, they would initiate that one themselves, though she had doubts they would.

On 2023-08-28 at 12:52 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

"Then fish you will get." He happily replied to shark.

He quickly forgets the topic of fate as soon as Shark spoke.

It seems his past hunts him now and again. But Sharks presence is enough for it to be vanquished off of his head.

" we'll get that sauce you wanted and a fish you want. Who knows? Maybe it would go well together." He smiled towards Shark.

"Saaaaa-uce. Sauce. Shark not try sauce. Is good with fishy? Will try."

She had the meaning of the word in her mind, implanted among many other things, as she had been changed by Anomaly. It were some sort of liquid, that you put on to your food, or dipped your food in. It sounded weird, but if Light said that she should try it, that must mean that it was good, yes? She would try it when he recommended it at least. She trusted him, and wouldn't think he'd give her something that were gonna kill her. Maybe it wouldn't taste good to her, but that were not the same. That was just him wanting her to try things, and her not being a fan of the thing tried. That was different!

As for the fish? She figured after this long day, she could go and catch a full trout from the river to eat. A big, juicy fishy like that, would do wonders. Just not right now. She wasn't that hungry, so later that would be. Though she could eat a smaller fishy if it were. Had to make sure not to eat too many though. There needed to be more than enough in the river, so she wouldn't run out of food. Sure there were things to eat in the forest too, but she liked fishies. It would be a shame if they were gone.

On 2023-08-27 at 12:32 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

For the reptile couple, Sear was the one to answer "For us the road is calling, but we won't leave before these two have a more solid roof over their heads." she pointed at Sheska and Trox, and before they could say anything, Chega cut in "I insist, as long as it's my money keeping up your roof, I'm not going anywhere." "Besides, you still owe me those stories." 

On 2023-08-28 at 12:52 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

" may i suggest the school? It will give you a roof on top of your heads and knowledge of this world. Plus you'll have friends near you."

"A kind pair of offers, that you should take them up on, otherworlders. A roof for a few days, can do wonders, while you are settling into your new lives. And a school is a good place for knowledge you'd need, to adjust to this new world."

Rhugan enjoyed these talks, but she did need to move along soon, and so, would go to finish her tea. Hachi and Zhing would do the same, quiet as they still were, to let their elder speak with less interruptions. And soon enough, their plates and cups would be empty, barring a few drops and crumbs.

"Nice as this have been, I should be looking towards going home. There is much still to be done, and what goes for normality around here, is not helped by my presence."

"Already? We had hoped you would stay for a little."

"I would prefer it too. Get a chance to see this town more for myself, but I need to finish what we have started. But I will come by to check up on you another day, and give back your kimono, but until then, you make sure to learn, and make us proud. It is not just your mother that have put a lot of faith in you two."

Elder Rhugan and the kits would stand up, and facing one another, would bow to the respective side. Then Rhugan would turn and bow before the others, with a chuckle on her breath. Albeit the bow to them, were less than that given to the kits.

"What a fascinating group you are. Something tells me we will meet again some other day. That goes for all of you, otherworlders or not."

Shark would raise a hoof, and wave enthusiastically at Rhugan as she said that.

"Goodbye, fluffy one! Have fun at your reef."

Lest there were anything else, her staff would send a thick cloud of fog off, enveloping the elder, and when it were gone, Rhugan would too. There were now only two kitsune left in Ponyville, once again. Though if they had something to say, she would halt momentarily, to allow them to get it out. Though she did really need to be on her way soon, and leave these youngsters to their lives. They couldn't be humbled by her presence forever, of they wouldn't get out of it, what they had been sent here for in the first place.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"I wish I had answers, but if there are any to find, something tells me you'll have to find them at home. I'd think it was just luck, but I wasn't there, in the situation. I don't know how close it got, and how bad things looked for you, as accurately as you did. So if you're sure there were more to it than that, I believe in you. But then, who, or what, would interfere then? If you didn't see anyone, it'd have to be something magical. Maybe a relative? Not your mother, obviously, but y'know, there's other parts of a family than just your mother.

Or perhaps, just maybe, there's something in you, that kept you alive. We don't know what sorta magic you might be carrying. For all we know, there's something there, that guides you, and keeps you alive, if you want it to or not.

*sigh* Whatever happened, I'm glad you did make it through, and are here."

Really, she were. Leviathan might seem like she'd do fine by her own to many creatures, but she did feel lonely and wanting for company at times. Good, draconic company, to be specific. Sure Ruby and Charir wasn't the ideal she had been hoping for for a long time, but honestly, she wouldn't trade them for the world. And if someone, or something, hadn't kept Ruby alive back in the day, then she would have missed out on it. The speaking lessons, the potential other magic, the horrible situations and weird adventures they had gone on- Y'know, all the fun parts. It was much nicer like this, where she had met them, and had a splendid time, with a couple of weird dragons, that she already considered close friends of hers, that she'd go mental over someone trying to hurt.

She would get closer to Ruby, and put her hand on the dragoness. Sure she didn't feel this sort, and didn't get the friendly bla bla bla. It was the principle of things, alright? She were trying to show some empathy here, and that she were there for her friend. The logic of these actions were not important.

"I honestly don't wanna imagine things, if I hadn't met you, Ruby. It just wouldn't be the same. And it's definitely a lot less lonely."

Once she were over her sappy spell, she'd eventually take a step back, and take a deep breath. It was time to actually focus a bit here, and get down to business, as one might put it.

"Okay, I doubt we'll get far thinking more on that. Not like there's any clues or anything to go by, yeah? So, let's focus on what we got, that's nice and tangible. Another treasure hunt, potentially with some curses and other bad stuff. A nice little adventure, with a payoff. The very best kind there is, heh."

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@EQ_Theta

On 2023-08-27 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“There is no stopping you in this matter, is there? Do not let us hold you back, Omen; only exercise utmost caution when you do so. There is no telling what else lurks in the shadows unseen.”

The scholars would be rather uncharacteristically pushy in this matter, but the danger is always present, and their more natural emotional ties to the living have seemingly begun to manifest despite being an orb. Time spent away from the mortal coil supposedly hardened them into adhering to cold logic, yet this unexpected development was most unusual. They wouldn’t question it regardless as they turned their attention to the Stone Matron. New bodies awaited them soon, and they would want some natural feelings to come as they did. 

“Very well, Stone Matron. We will await what comes next, but we greatly appreciate your help and guidance. It will be interesting to acclimate to physical bodies once more after countless lifetimes.”

It seemed like things were calm for now, and attention was drawn to other important matters. Likewise, Sen had his own matters to attend to, and having said his piece to Omen, he’d do as he was asked. Lin needed someone to attend to her if her consciousness returned. It would be good to see if she were doing better now, but that would be up to whether the kitsune looking after her were to allow visitors. 

As things seemed settled now, the Stone Matron would be quiet, yet she wouldn't leave. The others - that is, the ones not in the orb - were meant to leave first, as she had to make sure that no one tampered with things. SO once Rosa and Omen were out, she would follow, and then be on her way. She had other things to attend now, until the ritual would commence later.

Until that point though, Omen would have a response to things, and gazed into the orb, with her unblinking, pale stare.

"I will try and find the place first, and then go back to tell. But if I do go, I will leave, if things do not seem right. I think I can do that, yes."

Odds were that she wouldn't find the pyramid though, and rather just some places where it definitely weren't. It depended on how old that depiction they had found were, and what state the pyramid were in. It could be hidden in a mountain, under dirt, foliage, be crumbled, had been paved over, etc. Time and nature, tended to do well, in reclaiming things that had been left abandoned.

On 2023-08-27 at 5:20 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“All right. Omen? Can you open a gate back to Lin and the kitsune? If you want to head out and find out more about the pyramid, I’ll inform you of Lin’s status when you get back. Scholars? Stone Matron? Thank you for your time. I should go and see my sister.”

Sen didn’t feel enthusiastic about what he had learned, and coupled with how many complications came about, he already began to feel the stress. That said, he’d still respectfully bow to them both before leaving for the kitsune’s home realm. As for Lin, she’d still appear unconscious if anyone were to check up on her. The extent of the damage was impossible to tell through sight alone,  but all seemed as normal as one could get. She would need to be awake to see any changes, but if given some time, Lin would slowly come to, as her eye movements began with little flutters just barely visible under her eyelids. Perhaps this may be the first of some good signs to come, but Sen will welcome any positive news now.

With things concluded here, Omen would do as asked, and open a gate to get them back to the kitsune. Not where Lin had were exactly though. It were on the other side of the door. Probably for the best, to avoid startling the nurse honestly.

Omen would stay for now though, as she wanted to know if sister were okay, and thus, once the gate were closed - and a few kits had seemingly been startled, as they jolted down the hallway from seeing the newcomers - she would knock on the door. As she were given entry, she would then wander in, and see... Well, nothing spectacular, though it were a different kitsune that greeted them, than the nurse student from before. And Lin were spread out on a larger bed, with runes inscribed around it, and with several papers on her, that also had things inscribed. There were also incense burning on sticks at strategic placed on her bed, but beyond that? Nothing had really changed. The one overlooking her were even seen just leaned back, reading a magazine. Though it were in neighponese, so they probably couldn't read it.

As for the one in question, it were an older kitsune. Jet black, with grey tips on her hears, and wearing a pearl-white kimono, with leaf patterns on it. Clearly older and bigger than the one from earlier.

"Ah, you must be the ones my student warned me about. Here to check on your friend, I take it? Peculiar case this one. Mhm.

I'm Head Nurse Lao. Your friend here have been a curious case, so I took over. She should be fine now. Just waiting for her to wake up, for a mental evaluation. Physically she's fine."

If it took more than five minutes for her to wake up, Omen would be gone, out to see some of the places she remembered throughout time, and figure out if there were some chance that the pyramid they sought, were in any of those locations. If not, she would be there once Lin started to make movements, under her eyelids. She would not take Shrimp with her though, who'd go and nap on Sen's head. The incense made him sleepy.

"Ah, seems like there's some cognitive functions starting. Let's see then, how things develop from here."

Lao would lean forward in her seat, and observe Lin closely, as she got ready to act on whatever might, or might not happen. There seemed to be functions now, yes. But if she slipped back into unconsciousness, or woke up in a panicked attacker mode, she needed to be ready to deal with it, rather than just sitting back and waiting for things to blow over. Though for now, she'd just assume that the longma would wake up confused. They would take it from there, if that were.

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@Widdershins

On 2023-08-28 at 12:26 AM, Widdershins said:

Surely Ponykind didn't always have to put magical mind dampeners on them just so they wouldn't drive themselves extinct. They must be doing something right, or they wouldn't have so many towns.

"Can't worry! If anything happens, we'll burn that rubble when we get to it! .......... that, uh, was probably a poor choice of words, wasn't it?"

Cover Up wouldn't address the first much, beyond a slow nod. Honestly, as dismissive as that response to his scars had been from Whett, there were a small bit of comfort, in knowing that it didn't seem like a lot to him. He had tried showing these before, and the responses had not been the sort he would prefer. The strange, black cat especially, had been more intrigued than anything, about them. Been a few days now, since he had seen Zinthar actually... In some ways, it made him relieved, as the thing were a little... Peculiar, to put it mildly. In other ways, he were worried what sort of trouble he might get into. Hopefully nothing major, and he were just busy with the bat pony for the time being.

As for Whett... Well, it started off nicely, and then deteriorated rapidly, to him making a rather... Poor choice of words. It were probably not meant the way that it were said, but it wasn't exactly a great sign. A being like Whett, a lot of the things he said and did, seemed to have the potential to either be taken poorly, or spin rapidly out of control.

"It's uhm... Not i-ideal, no. Probably better to just... Say that you'll go w-with the flow, sir."

It were likely also good for them, to just... Move on. Quickly that were. The less time they spent talking more about this, the better. Ponyville awaited, and hopefully nothing would be set on fire.... Please?

On 2023-08-28 at 12:26 AM, Widdershins said:

"Meat!! Why i've had a few before! MEAT, hah! Hardly worth the exercise to get, I'd say!"

The kirin had said in a notably loud enough voice to carry towards other customers that might hold some mild worrying concerns and awkward glances over such words being said in a tone of voice given to somepony unused to being around others and using an "Indoor Voice." The bombastic reply carried a suspicious whiff of faint brimstone to Alonsus reminiscent more of inventors and those that play with matches. Hopefully the former, he would think.

"I'M just so glad to meet you, man! Welcoming me to your place of business thingy! I've, like, NEVER been INSIDE a building before!!"

Whett would find that he'd get more looks for how he were looking, than the fact that he were loud. This place had their quirky sorts both working for, and visiting at times. So a fair bit of the locals that went here often, sorta learned to tune some background out. Wasn't everyyone thought, and yes, he would be given weird looks, as kirin wasn't usual around here. probably just a few that had ever been here, even briefly, so they weren't sure what to expect. They wouldn't address him though, so that were something at least. They'd leave that sort with Alonsus, who were not all that fuzzed about the odd way this one behaved. And in fact, he liked to see that the kirin sat on the bench. Showed that it had been fixed right, as it were as stable as anything when he sat upon it. So that was that test done.

His breath were mighty peculiar though. Reminded him of Blitz in a way... Maybe it were the sulfurous undertones? It could be so hard to tell sometimes. He had never been much of a bomb expert, even in his old life, where he did... Less than legal work. More of a brawns sort of presence, as it were.

now. 

"Alonsus can tell, my peculiar friend. You shout as if you are traversing alongside a well trafficked road. But Ponyville is quite calm and quiet. You needn't worry about being drowned out."

"A-Actually I think it's just... A p-personality thing. He means well."

Least Cover hoped so, but he still wasn't sure The kirin were really making it hard for him to apply normal logic to things, as well as expectations.

"Perish the thought, if you think Alonsus believes your friend to be mean of spirit, my young colt.

Ah, but if you wish to enter and see the building as you said, then you should go on. Worry not for me, I have much work I can yet do, and Berry shall take ample care of you. Be it drinks of food, we at Sloppy Joe's will endeavor to be of service."

He'd be plenty happy enough to speak further if it were, but they could also just go in. The place were spacious, and scarcely populated right now, as it were work hours for a fair few, but about a fourth of the place were still in use by customers. Most drinking something. Coffee primarily, as that were their specialty. Just like the buns were at the bakery.

Behind the counter, humming to herself, and writing down some things on a long piece of paper, were a mare. The one they had to deal with, if they wanted to order anything.

If they looked at the paper, it seemed she were somehow making a connection between the redeemed changelings, regular changelings, and a picture of a large Hercules Beetle, sitting on somepony's hoof. It were a confusing mess to look at, for those who didn't know how to look at it. Crazy ponies, as some might say.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,228]

@Blitz Boom@StrawberryMilk Simp
"I hope this world will never need our 'wisdom'."  "Some knowledge is best when you don't need to use it." they were of course referring to knowledge regarding to war and to surviving lot of awful things, which only ever came handy in those specific situations. It was like knowing how to amputate one's own limb safely, it was good skill to have in that situation, but most would hope they never need it. 

Nobody had anything specific to say to Rhugan specifically, besides of course bye, well wishes, and all that stuff, but the kobold twins addressed the matter of roofs whenever there was a chance for them to do so, mainly talking to Light and Chega, since the kitsune hadn't suggested anything.

"The school is not a good choice for us, the last thing we want is to attract danger to somewhere with so many young creatures around." "Also, be it misplaced in this world or not, we have grown distrustful of pony institutions, and wouldn't be able to be at ease with our living being tied to one." "We don't like burdening you either..." this was specifically said to Chega "...but knowing you, we have no other choice." it was said with hint of humor behind it, and Chega's response was a gesture of 'exactly'.  "So guess we'll live here until we figure out something more permanent." 

They addressed Light again, though what they said also involved the rest of the non-lizards "And while we appreciate your suggestion, and your company, we just met, living somewhere for sake of you being close by, doesn't sound reasonable for now." they also generally preferred their own kind over others, as lot of things they had said before showed, not to mention the history they had with Chega, be it a different Chega. "Speaking of company, I wonder how Onache is doing, she really got the short end of the stick with this whole situation." 

 

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

"I'm not sure of anything yet, the only thing that is certain is that with everything I know about my kind, those injuries were lethal." Ruby stated "But regardless of if it was something from outside or inside, it brings the question of, why only me? what makes me so special?" "We won't figure out answers here, so it's pointless to discuss it too much further, I mainly brought it up because...well, this may be weird coming from me, but maybe it's good to keep an open mind with those riddle speaking weirdos."

As to be expected, Ruby didn't show much of a reaction to the nice gesture, or words, and while it seemed to be just her usual coldness towards such, in truth, part of the reason was her lack of experience when it came to positive attention like that, and, unlike Charir, who had gone from wincing to appreciating such gestures, Ruby had lived long enough to become numb. 

Ruby tossed the money they had already gotten down the basement slide and locked and sealed the door, no need to bring it all the way to her treasure yet. "Indeed, we should probably see what we agreed to do." she would take out the stuff Spicy had given them, and spread them in front of them, so that they would be able to see and read everything. "I must admit though, I am feeling slightly iffy about this, not that I don't trust Spicy, but we should stay sharp." 

 

 

 

 

[StrawberryMilk Simp 12,153]

3 hours ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

They addressed Light again, though what they said also involved the rest of the non-lizards "And while we appreciate your suggestion, and your company, we just met, living somewhere for sake of you being close by, doesn't sound reasonable for now." they also generally preferred their own kind over others, as lot of things they had said before showed, not to mention the history they had with Chega, be it a different Chega. "Speaking of company, I wonder how Onache is doing, she really got the short end of the stick with this whole situation." 

Light would not force his idea and would just nod at their answer.

" well if you need any help, you know where to find us."

Although, is it wise to leave them be? If what they say is true, isn't it wise to keep them closer. In any case he should report this to Starlight Glimmer.

@Catpone Cerberus @Blitz Boom

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-04 at 7:07 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I will try and find the place first, and then go back to tell. But if I do go, I will leave, if things do not seem right. I think I can do that, yes."

Odds were that she wouldn't find the pyramid though, and rather just some places where it definitely weren't. It depended on how old that depiction they had found were, and what state the pyramid were in. It could be hidden in a mountain, under dirt, foliage, be crumbled, had been paved over, etc. Time and nature, tended to do well, in reclaiming things that had been left abandoned.

“Be well, Omen and Sen. We look forward to seeing you again soon.”

Sen nodded and departed with Omen to their next destination, though it would be some time before they could meet once more. There is no doubt that they would cross paths once again, though they hoped it would be in better times. The situation the longma and the Ki’Nathar are in could grow more complicated by the moment, but they had to be strong to weather uncertainties, one of which being Lin’s condition. As for the step pyramid, it wouldn’t go anywhere, but information on the matter is scant other than hints of it being related to the longma based on what information was extrapolated so far.

With a gate opened from the scholars to the Kitsune, the longma looked around to see where Lin was. Omen was now taking a more proactive approach to things, which got them moving toward the answer Sen hoped to know. He was rather impressed by this, even if the motions were rather simple. In a short time, they’d find Lin together with a kitsune, likely monitoring their sister’s condition. 

On 2023-09-04 at 7:07 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Ah, you must be the ones my student warned me about. Here to check on your friend, I take it? Peculiar case this one. Mhm.

I'm Head Nurse Lao. Your friend here have been a curious case, so I took over. She should be fine now. Just waiting for her to wake up, for a mental evaluation. Physically she's fine."

If it took more than five minutes for her to wake up, Omen would be gone, out to see some of the places she remembered throughout time, and figure out if there were some chance that the pyramid they sought, were in any of those locations. If not, she would be there once Lin started to make movements, under her eyelids. She would not take Shrimp with her though, who'd go and nap on Sen's head. The incense made him sleepy.

"Ah, seems like there's some cognitive functions starting. Let's see then, how things develop from here."

Lao would lean forward in her seat, and observe Lin closely, as she got ready to act on whatever might, or might not happen. There seemed to be functions now, yes. But if she slipped back into unconsciousness, or woke up in a panicked attacker mode, she needed to be ready to deal with it, rather than just sitting back and waiting for things to blow over. Though for now, she'd just assume that the longma would wake up confused. They would take it from there, if that were.

“Thank you, Nurse Lao. If there is any way we can help you with your… umm… evaluations for Lin, please let us know. My name is Sen, and this is Omen. It’s good to know that she is fine in some manner.”

Eye movements under the eyelids were apparent within moments of speaking with the head nurse, something that Sen noticed in the corner of his vision. That, to him, seemed like a good start, though it wasn’t much based on his limited knowledge. Seeing her twitch and shake violently earlier was difficult to see, and he hoped nothing of the sort would happen again. In about five minutes time, Lin’s eyelids fluttered, then little bits of her eyes became more visible. In time, her eyes would open, catching sight of Sen, Omen, and Lao, though she didn’t try to move out of her spot for now.

“Lin? Sister? You’re awake! I’m so glad! How are you feeling?”

Lin looked to her brother, then to Omen, but she didn’t utter a reply. Her eyes still appeared glazed as she scanned the room to identify where she was at the moment. Though Sen understood the unfamiliarity of the situation, the silence wasn’t a good sign, though it wouldn’t last, which was a relief, albeit brief.

“Wh-what is going on? Where am I?”

“It’s okay; you’re safe here. Do you remember what happened earlier?”

“Earlier? I... I was delivering some messages to the craftworkers about a request, then now I’m here. I’m not sure what happened in between, but you must know, right? And you’re… not alone? Hello to you. Might you also know? Mother and father would need to be informed about the delay.”

Head Nurse Lao would only need to see Sen’s stunned expression to get clued in on Lin’s condition. The longma was mortified upon hearing the mention of their parents, but Lin spoke without hesitation… she might have her memories scrambled, likely remembering some details and blanking out on others. In addition, it was telling that she only seemed to have recognized her brother and not Omen. Though there was some relief in her not treating her differently despite being unfamiliar, there was still the issue at present, and the way forward was now one step more uncertain.

“Omen? What the spirit did… it may have damaged sister’s memories. This is not good.” 

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-09-05 at 3:46 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Be well, Omen and Sen. We look forward to seeing you again soon.”

"Goodbye."

It would not be long still, before they met again. Didn't seem like much of a reason to worry, or spend energy thinking about that, when there were more important things to look for. When it were time, she'd return here. probably when she noticed the others had gone back, with Lin leading the way. She would know this place well, and her going here, would work well as a sort of beacon for her to follow. Unless Scarcity did something to hide them from her, but that didn't seem to be a want for her. So far, she just seemed to hide herself, and sometimes Hammond. Though not right now. She could feel his presence elsewhere.

On 2023-09-05 at 3:46 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Thank you, Nurse Lao. If there is any way we can help you with your… umm… evaluations for Lin, please let us know. My name is Sen, and this is Omen. It’s good to know that she is fine in some manner.”

"We'll see when she regains full consciousness. Might be her body is okay, but the mind's another story entirely."

One step at a time though. She were stable, and seemed to be reaching towards soon waking up. So they'd get their answers to her condition in full soon enough. It were just to be patient now. And of course, making sure that the patient had something to drink, once she woke up. She might end up feeling thirsty, after a prolonged treatment like this, so there were a wooden cup of water nearby, as well as a few fruit. Common things to have on paw for her, and her students. Though it were rare they had severe cases here. That sort of thing usually went above her rank, as a school nurse, though she were fully capable of stabilizing someone, until more suitable help would arrive. But that were stuff like torn off limbs, or severe curses, and those were rare. Frankly, her days were mostly dull, and that were a good thing. She hated seeing the kits severely hurt.

On 2023-09-05 at 3:46 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Omen? What the spirit did… it may have damaged sister’s memories. This is not good.” 

Omen tilted her head, looking at Lin in silence, uncertain what to think about this. It seemed that Lin had forgotten things. A lot of things even, if she thought her parents were still alive. That could be trouble, yes? That also meant she didn't know who she were, nor who Mother were, yes? Not brother, Discord- Anything. That would be hard to explain. But Lin were smarter than her. She would perhaps adapt to the lack of memories better.

As she were thinking, the kitsune would go forth, and address Lin for the time being. She needed to know how her patient were doing, and she had seen enough from the reactions, to grasp that something were not right. Specifically, a memory issue, it appeared.

"Lin, was it? I am Head Nurse Lao, and it sounds as if you have a prolonged period of memory loss. We need to find out how much time you have lost, and then see if we can work out an effective treatment."

"It have been long. It does not sound like she remembers what happened to her parents. So that means that she does not remember me either. Do you, sister?"

It seemed like they had a lot to do now, so it would be some time before she had time to go and look for the pyramid. It did not matter. Lin came first, and that were simply a fact. She could do something else, once they had sorted her memory issues out. No matter how long it would take. Though it would probably cause some issues at the meeting, yes? They were requiring her to testify, and now, she had no memory of anything around what happened. She probably did not even remember her exile in the first place.

Shrimp would still be sleeping. Probably for the best, because if he ended up understanding this, as things were now, he would start to get scared and confused, at the prospect that one of his caretakers didn't know who he were, and had something wrong with her. He wouldn't like that. Perhaps this way, they would end up being able to mitigate things before he woke up, or perhaps even find a solution. Though it seemed likely to be the sort of thing that took a fair bit of time.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-09-04 at 11:02 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

They addressed Light again, though what they said also involved the rest of the non-lizards "And while we appreciate your suggestion, and your company, we just met, living somewhere for sake of you being close by, doesn't sound reasonable for now." they also generally preferred their own kind over others, as lot of things they had said before showed, not to mention the history they had with Chega, be it a different Chega. "Speaking of company, I wonder how Onache is doing, she really got the short end of the stick with this whole situation." 

On 2023-09-04 at 2:41 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

Light would not force his idea and would just nod at their answer.

" well if you need any help, you know where to find us."

Although, is it wise to leave them be? If what they say is true, isn't it wise to keep them closer. In any case he should report this to Starlight Glimmer.

"Shark always happy to help scaly friends."

She'd grin from ear to ear, jumping in place. Like she were Pinkie Pie's confused aquatic cousin, though with less Elements of Harmony, and more *Make me mad and I will bite your face off* vibes. Different threat levels, beneath all the smiles and joy.

"If not big reef, you stay here, yes? Shark can come... Viii-siiit. Visit. Shark can visit, see how scaly friends do, yes? That is... Good thing, yes?"

"We don't want to pester you, or try to force friendship on you, if you don't want it. But you did help us, with a most troubling situation, and helped a lot of beings. The town owes you, and we do too, for helping. So if we can repay the kindness somehow, just let us know."

The kitsune would bow before the kobold siblings, then Shark and Light, and then at the end, Chega and Sear. The kobold siblings had done the most of all here, but still, it would be rude to not acknowledge the others had done their parts too. It just seemed like they'd be more receptive to the kitsune hanging out with them at times - especially Shark, who seemed to be infatuated to a certain extend - which were less certain with the otherworlder siblings. It seemed they were more... Reserved, and focused on figuring out their place in things, rather than attempting to make friends. Which were fair really. But in case they did need a helping paw at some point, Hachi and Zhing would be happy to help.

As for Onache... Well, she wasn't here, and timing didn't make it so that she just kicked open the door suddenly, to make her entrance. She were still firmly in the hospital.

"I think Onache is still in the hospital, where we left her."

Zhing would say something first, breaking the two's tandem talking for the time being.

"Good. It's where she should be. Wait wait!"

Hachi rose a paw up, as he saw the glare his siter gave him, for that comment.

"I just mean it's been safer there, yeah? There's doctors and everything. She should be in good paws."

"That's true. Can't imagine she feels good when she wakes up though. Not with that... Display from before, when she got to the hospital."

"She looked like a vomit fountain."

This he got a tail slapped in his face for, and he knew he deserved it, the instance, the words had left his mouth. It weren't respectful, to speak of the ill like that.

"Please ignore my brother. As for Onache, I think you will only find your answer, if you go and check up on her yourself."

"The guards would probably need to hear how things went too. And that guard in blue you hung out with, is probably at the hospital too."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

On 2023-09-04 at 11:02 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

"I'm not sure of anything yet, the only thing that is certain is that with everything I know about my kind, those injuries were lethal." Ruby stated "But regardless of if it was something from outside or inside, it brings the question of, why only me? what makes me so special?" "We won't figure out answers here, so it's pointless to discuss it too much further, I mainly brought it up because...well, this may be weird coming from me, but maybe it's good to keep an open mind with those riddle speaking weirdos."

"You're special to me."

She'd blurt this out, not even thinking about it. But it were true. Ruby were a treasure to her and fate, magic, a freaking god looking down and smiling on her- She didn't care what the reason were that Ruby were alive. She were just joyful that she were, so that she could be in her life. Her big, gruff ray of doomshine.

As time went on, that really bothered her less and less too, she found. Were a time when she had wanted to change Ruby a fair bit, and make her comfort to another way of life. Currently? She felt more like she just wanted to have Ruby open up, which she did more and more over time, but she didn't much want the dragoness to change. She liked her as she were. Minus the dragon killing. That would be swell to have just taken to the *In case of emergency* part of the brain, but that were her opinion. She had to accept that sometimes,. someone just had to die. Even other dragons, as much as she hated that fact, and didn't like to even think about doing that herself.

On 2023-09-04 at 11:02 AM, Catpone Cerberus said:

Ruby tossed the money they had already gotten down the basement slide and locked and sealed the door, no need to bring it all the way to her treasure yet. "Indeed, we should probably see what we agreed to do." she would take out the stuff Spicy had given them, and spread them in front of them, so that they would be able to see and read everything. "I must admit though, I am feeling slightly iffy about this, not that I don't trust Spicy, but we should stay sharp." 

"There's a word for folks who have caution, going into things like this. It's *Survivors*. We've been told up front, that there's probably some traps and potentially curses and old magic. Going somewhere that's supposedly cursed, and not being at least a bit tentative, is suicidal and reckless. Frankly just proper to look things over, and consider the possibilities, before you end up losing a leg."

Looking over the things, it wasn't much they had so far, now that the down payment had gone down the drain. Just the map, and a bit of base info, which granted, did say a few pointers of note.

"Let's see... Deer temple, local rumors about dark magic, and stories of a large, winged cat on some of the stonework. Few reported risen, and several chambers that haven't been checked properly.

So it's old, and a sphinx might have done something? That might be a hassle Those creatures can be some vindictive little things, so there might be something bad one of 'em have done. Or they left something of great value. They like hoarding and stashing too, in their own way.

Not a lot to go by, but by the sounds of it, there's the potential for something good here. Do need to watch out for magical remnants. Sometimes you're lucky, and age have destroyed, or neutered magic. Other times, you step wrong, and your face melts off. They weren't messing about with stuff back in the day.

Seems to be most. There's the warning about being cautious around the water, and... Ah, that's where the risen part comes in. Might be fun honestly. I haven't dusted some undead in centuries."

The map were straight forward, and just showing the way, with a dotted line. Nothing special or off the rails with that.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,228]

@Blitz Boom@StrawberryMilk Simp
The kobolds gave Shark an affirmative answer, she was an interesting individual, and funnily enough, the one from the group they trusted the most besides Chega and Sear, because her....simple mindset, made it so that she was very easy to predict as far as motivations went, and while not calling her stupid, she also wasn't intelligent in a way that would have made her potentially dangerous. 

"There isn't currently anything you can help us with." Sheska said to the two kitsune "And don't get us wrong, we are not trying to separate ourselves from you or anyone" "We just have lived a life where throwing yourself to friendship is not an option." "Especially when it comes to ponies and their allies, like you." "Not to sound like some species-supremacist, because we are not Sheez, but when for generations your kind has been mistreated by one specific species, ponies in our case, it isn't easy to just drop that wariness." "Not to mention all the loss around us, emotional connections are dangerous when surviving is a gamble." it all was part of that jadedness they had mentioned before, at some point you just stop trying. 

"Also, the question was rhetorical." Trox stated blandly "Of course she is still there." "We'll check on her when we end up there again, and the guards can wait, not our job to work as a messenger." "Besides, there were many ponies around, they have no doubt told the guards already." they didn't much care about 'disrespecting the ill', so they had no comments on that, besides, it wasn't their job to protect Onache's honor against kids. 

"Light, now that things have calmed down, you said when we met that you want to change stories at some point, still want to do that? now would be a chance." 

------------------------------------
Sometimes it was the simple words that were the best, while outside Ruby was as unaffected as always, inside, Leviathan's blurt went straight through the century worth of ice-cold stone that was Ruby's heart, she could praise Ruby for next millennia straight without effect, but something about the simple, genuine statement, caused Ruby feel warmth she couldn't explain, for the first time in her almost two centuries of life, she felt something that didn't have rage, hate or pain mixed in, though naturally, her first instinct was to try to get rid of it, to get rid of this....weakness. 

"Deer temple? wait, there's intelligent deer?" Ruby asked with genuine voice, before pausing and seemingly realizing something, how typical of her, they were talking about dark magic, curses, undead, sphinxes and so on, and what she got stuck on, was the fact that there was another intelligent prey-species "Besides that, this does sound like something where a risk exists for me to have to break the act." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[StrawberryMilk Simp 12,153]

On 2023-09-11 at 5:02 PM, Catpone Cerberus said:

@Blitz Boom@StrawberryMilk Simp
The kobolds gave Shark an affirmative answer, she was an interesting individual, and funnily enough, the one from the group they trusted the most besides Chega and Sear, because her....simple mindset, made it so that she was very easy to predict as far as motivations went, and while not calling her stupid, she also wasn't intelligent in a way that would have made her potentially dangerous. 

"There isn't currently anything you can help us with." Sheska said to the two kitsune "And don't get us wrong, we are not trying to separate ourselves from you or anyone" "We just have lived a life where throwing yourself to friendship is not an option." "Especially when it comes to ponies and their allies, like you." "Not to sound like some species-supremacist, because we are not Sheez, but when for generations your kind has been mistreated by one specific species, ponies in our case, it isn't easy to just drop that wariness." "Not to mention all the loss around us, emotional connections are dangerous when surviving is a gamble." it all was part of that jadedness they had mentioned before, at some point you just stop trying. 

"Also, the question was rhetorical." Trox stated blandly "Of course she is still there." "We'll check on her when we end up there again, and the guards can wait, not our job to work as a messenger." "Besides, there were many ponies around, they have no doubt told the guards already." they didn't much care about 'disrespecting the ill', so they had no comments on that, besides, it wasn't their job to protect Onache's honor against kids. 

"Light, now that things have calmed down, you said when we met that you want to change stories at some point, still want to do that? now would be a chance." 

------------------------------------
Sometimes it was the simple words that were the best, while outside Ruby was as unaffected as always, inside, Leviathan's blurt went straight through the century worth of ice-cold stone that was Ruby's heart, she could praise Ruby for next millennia straight without effect, but something about the simple, genuine statement, caused Ruby feel warmth she couldn't explain, for the first time in her almost two centuries of life, she felt something that didn't have rage, hate or pain mixed in, though naturally, her first instinct was to try to get rid of it, to get rid of this....weakness. 

"Deer temple? wait, there's intelligent deer?" Ruby asked with genuine voice, before pausing and seemingly realizing something, how typical of her, they were talking about dark magic, curses, undead, sphinxes and so on, and what she got stuck on, was the fact that there was another intelligent prey-species "Besides that, this does sound like something where a risk exists for me to have to break the act." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

" ..."

Light was a bit confused at what she said, but soon shed understand what she meant.

" oh hear and now? Well if we have time, sure. But i think it'll be a short one. But im easy to find anyway, if you want more just find me at the school of friendship." 

He'd then sit down as he tries to prepare his bit. 

" so who should go first?"

That is if nothing would interrupt.

@Catpone Cerberus

@Blitz Boom

Edited September 12 by StrawberryMilk Simp

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-11 at 6:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Lin, was it? I am Head Nurse Lao, and it sounds as if you have a prolonged period of memory loss. We need to find out how much time you have lost, and then see if we can work out an effective treatment."

“Prolonged… memory loss? No, no that doesn’t sound right. I was only out for what felt like a few minutes at best, but what am I doing here? This isn’t right.”

“Sister, please calm down. Nurse Lao, and all of us, want to help. I know this isn’t what you expected, but you need to let us help you. Cooperate with us, all right? We’ll figure out what’s going on.”

Lin nodded, though it was evident that she was confused and scared as she subconsciously attempted to back up and away. It wouldn’t exactly work from where she was, and there was little room to move, but this one might be a delicate procedure. It was already strange enough to wake up in a place with someone unknown, but Sen talking like all this was normal… If she was dreaming, maybe it was time for her to wake up, and yet all of this didn’t feel like a dream. It was all real, and it didn’t make things any better. 

And all that wasn’t enough, as Omen spoke to her with familiarity. Mentioning her parents as if she knew about them was another complication, and knowing the longma, they’d be wary of outsiders. Disclosing that information was one of the last things she could’ve thought possible. The only reassurance Lin had was her brother’s words; if it was safe to be around these creatures, then she’d put her trust in that despite the discomforting thoughts and implications.

On 2023-09-11 at 6:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It have been long. It does not sound like she remembers what happened to her parents. So that means that she does not remember me either. Do you, sister?"

It seemed like they had a lot to do now, so it would be some time before she had time to go and look for the pyramid. It did not matter. Lin came first, and that were simply a fact. She could do something else, once they had sorted her memory issues out. No matter how long it would take. Though it would probably cause some issues at the meeting, yes? They were requiring her to testify, and now, she had no memory of anything around what happened. She probably did not even remember her exile in the first place.

“I… I’m not so sure I remember you, stranger, but I feel something different. About you and Nurse Lao. Our kind are wary of anyone who isn’t us, and yet… It’s not the same here. Something tells me you two are different, and that there are others like you that are the same.”

“It’s not your first time to see the kitsune, sister. We’ve been in their realm once before. As for Omen? We’ve been traveling together for some time now, been to places like Canterlot and Ponyville. Omen’s helped us, just as we have been helping her. You do not recall any memories of those?”

Lin paused to think back on what Sen mentioned, though it seemed like she was drawing blanks. Her emotional state swings between genuine confusion and some degree of frustration. The more she tries to remember, the more it feels like there are apparent gaps in her memories. Something should be there, but all she gets are blanks and headaches. After about ten minutes of fruitless attempts at recollection, it seemed like she was ready to give up; the nagging feeling that there was something to say Sen and Omen mentioned didn’t help.

The longma turned to Omen, staring right at the Ki’Nathar’s eyes in the vague and somewhat hopeless notion that the sight could miraculously give her answers. Alas, it would be for naught, but she acknowledges the wrongness of it.

“There is something to you, is there Omen? You speak as if you know my story. Can you tell me something? Since brother says we traveled together, what memory can you recall of us doing something together?”

As for Sen, he turned to Nurse Lao in the hopes of being able to do more than just wait things out and stand by. May be best to do his part to help.

“Nurse? Lin traveled with me and Omen for what felt like months. I’m not sure how long exactly, but when she mentioned our parents, it sounded like what she should have known was just gone. If I may ask, how can we tell what is missing in her memories and what could we do to help regain them?”

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

14 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

The longma turned to Omen, staring right at the Ki’Nathar’s eyes in the vague and somewhat hopeless notion that the sight could miraculously give her answers. Alas, it would be for naught, but she acknowledges the wrongness of it.

“There is something to you, is there Omen? You speak as if you know my story. Can you tell me something? Since brother says we traveled together, what memory can you recall of us doing something together?”

"We met, when I was helping Sen look for you. He could not find you for a long time, just like how I could not find my master. When we found you, your body were broken. You could not live just yourself. So we brought you to my home. To Mother."

As she said that, a small hole would open, showing the realm where Omen came from. Large enough to poke your head through if you wished to, but that were about it. It were more meant to show things though, in this context.

"We all helped to fix you, and then we began to look towards your home. A place you had been forgotten in, and Sen had been exiled from, because he refused to stop looking for you.

I went away, to look for something. Ended up in crystal, but you, Sen, a pony and Master Discord, found me, and got me out of it. And then we chased after the one, who did that. We met Rosa that way. A thestral. He speaks a lot of big words, and always wears tinted glasses. The one we were looking for, hurt others. Had done for a long time, so we helped him, and he us. We all became friends at some point during all of it. You, Sen, Rosa, and I. And Shrimp."

She'd raise her tongue, and use it to lift the refraction's head a little. Something that made him grumble in his sleep, and smack his jaws, but he seemed to refuse to wake up regardless.

"We have met many more. Done strange things too, like going to a carnival, and going to a temple, to find a big gold statue. Rosa got hit then. That is how we went here the first time. It is also why I took you here, when you were hurt later. Because I thought they could help you too.

Before you got hurt, we were looking at things, with the longma. Speaking with an elder, trying to get ready for a meeting, with a council of them. You were taken over by something. A spirit in an orb, and then you collapsed. Others think that it hurt your memory. It looks like they were right.

...We shot laser guns at the carnival. You won that. I think you all said it was fun.

Do you remember anything? Should we show you to Mother, see if she can help you remember? She is very big, and likes you and Sen. Like her own children."

Omen broadly spoke of what things she could remember, that had happened with them all together. It lacked details, but it sort of went over a fair few of the important things, yes? Except what happened to her parents, but Omen were not even entirely sure what had happened there herself. The story seemed confusing to her. It were better if Sen were the one to tell her that.

15 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

As for Sen, he turned to Nurse Lao in the hopes of being able to do more than just wait things out and stand by. May be best to do his part to help.

“Nurse? Lin traveled with me and Omen for what felt like months. I’m not sure how long exactly, but when she mentioned our parents, it sounded like what she should have known was just gone. If I may ask, how can we tell what is missing in her memories and what could we do to help regain them?”

Lao had been writing some notes, as she looked at the open gate, and listened to the odd conversation that Omen and Lin had. It sounded like there were a fair bit of story between them, barely hinted at. Might jolt something... Might not. It were hard to say with these things, but she did listen regardless. She just had to make some notes too, for the sake of being thorough.

"You can pinpoint how long ago, by what she said. In her mind, it sounds as if she were through regular life in your town or village, and then the next she remembers, she is here. Pinpoint the beginning of regular life for you both, and then work back about a month from there, and you will likely hit the rough idea of how long she is missing.

As for treatments... There are options. The most Natural is to show her places and beings you met, while you tell her more details, and see if that jolts her memories. If they are locked down, things gets more complicated, as you will need to have that blockage removed. Potentially you would need to be linked with her mind, and then manually go in to address what is causing the blockage. Under supervision, of course, lest you get lost in her subconsciousness.

That is the simple and the hard one. There are also the option that the memories have been fully erased. If that is the case, there is nothing to retrieve. You could potentially imprint her with some versions of your own memory them, so she'd know what had happened, but it's safer just telling her. Forced memories can lead to schizophrenia, if the patient isn't sufficiently handled, and we have never done such a thing, on a longma. We can't guarantee what would happen, by having foreign memories in her head."

The kitsune had many ways of dealing with things, in a nice, magical way. However, that did also entail some level of risk. Especially when dealing with unknowns. And in the end, it would be up to them, if they all agreed that it were worth running any of said risks, to get her memories back, or if they would rather make new ones. An option, but not a good one it seemed, since Lin appeared annoyed and frustrated, over lacking memories of things. It also sounded like they had some fascinating history together, and things like that, were hard to recreate after the fact. It would be a shame if she had lost all of that.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

"That is understandable. As said, we won't push things, if you don't want that. But know that to a kitsune, owing a favor is something we take serious. So if there does come a time when you need something, even if it's many years from now, you can still call."

"We won't do something like murdering another, but we can help with things. And wouldn't mind socializing just y'know, in general."

"Yes. We've been lucky so far that there's some who seems to be very open in looking us out, like Shark here did.  But more never hurts.

As for the guards, you're probably right, that they've been told by someone already. And Onache is unlikely to just vanish anytime soon. There's likely no rush."

Unbeknownst to them, there were also the factor that Onache were very proud. Being visited and shown this degree of pity were not something that would be easy to swallow for her. Even if at the same time, she'd hate not having anyone there. Though she didn't have to worry about that. Soon as her remaining drone had heard what had happened, Happy had rushed to the room, and refused to leave. She'd be handled well when she woke up, with the one being whom she'd always appreciate at her side.

"Bad things done now, so lots to do, yes? Hope reef is happy soon. Friends are nice with smiles."

The kobolds had thought it best. Shark were very simple, and straight forward. Not a lot of duplicity and trickery with her, nor overly deep thoughts. Frankly, if she we told that she were basic and simpleminded, she probably wouldn't even take it as an insult. Just a fact.

Not everyone in town got that. A fair few still thought that there were more to her than they could see, and that they had to be cautious because of it. They'd learn in time, probably.

As the prospect of story time came up, the kitsune would sit down, and go quiet. That wasn't the sort of thing that they should interrupt during. It were rude, and frankly, these were all other-worlders. Who could tell what kind of fascinating tales they might have to share, if you were willing to listen?

Shark meanwhile, would stand and listen if something were said, whilst rubbing her head on the side of Light's, since he looked at her all happy like again. But she'd probably grow bored and go over to lick the tea cups clean of remaining liquid eventually. Nothing against stories, since she wanted to learn, but she were not used to just sitting still and listening in. Something that'd probably prove interesting during school lectures.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

 

"Well, yeah. Have you only met the feral ones? Man your place is way back then, if those are still there.

Deer have long been one of the higher intelligence races in Equestria, and a few other places. They can mostly be put into three categories: The traditionalists, the barkhorns, and the modernists.

Modernists are few in numbers. They're the sort who wants to mingle with other races, and goes on to try and learn and expand their horizon. It isn't too unusual for those to not be welcome in their own towns, depending on how strict they are.

Traditionalists prefers to stay in their own villages and communities. Depending on how strict their village are, either none, or very few outsiders are allowed to settle, and in some cases, they will straight up refuse to even let outsiders enter their town. They ted to lay traps and such, and will release others, once they swear to leave. Not too dangerous most of the time, and live simple.

Then there's the barkhorns. Those are the real issue for most. Nomadic and finding the concept of a large settlement abhorrent, they are very back to nature, and holds on to traditions that even the traditionalists can't live up to. They're also the most in tune with nature, and are seen by one side as someone you should show either respect to, and learn from, if they deign you worth their time, or just try not to cross. Depends on the village. For the modernists though, they're a bunch of crazies, little better than the simple animals they came from.

They're also extremely hostile to any members of other races, and tend to try and kill them if possible. Primarily with spears, or by goring them with their horns. Deer don't have natural magic. Kind of. Their leaders seem to have some, but I've not met one up close, so I can't say much. They have impressive horns though, that much is certain. All swirls and patterns and such.

Basically just assume that most deer you see are traditionalists, and if they have heavily barked horns with red markings, that they want to make your scales into armor.

Been a while since I heard about the old school beast deer though. In Equestria at least, those don't seem to be around anymore.

Anyway, that's pretty much what I know, in short terms. I don't hang out with deer if I can avoid it. The modernists are fine enough, but the traditionalists are so freaking serious sometimes, and just can't take a joke. It gets tedious to spend time around them sometimes. I may or may not, also have a *Kill on sight* depiction in a few of their villages for... Unimportant reasons."

Like she said, those creatures couldn't take a joke, and sometimes, that escalated. Wasn't her fault... *whistles*

 

[Rising Dusk 24,746]

@Blitz Boom

Will-O was just as hurt and distraught as when the left her.  Granted, they had only been parted in the measure of hours.  Time heals all wounds, so they say, but much more time was needed.  A new life isn't created in a day, weeks, months or even years.  The mare's healing would be on her own time, in her own way.  Equestria awaits for her with open hoofs and a chance for a new start.  One day, in time, Rising hoped she would embrace it.

At Carmel's haphazard comment about inspecting her belongings, and Will-O's, Rising's gaze lazily lulled over to where she dropped her bags.  Yeah, he'd have to do that before they departed for their new lives in Equestria.  Intended or not, it would be safest to check everything.  Something the pair easily thought harmless could have a different definition in Equestria.  This would likely be the first chance he'd get to inspect Carmel as well before her and Dawn's more back-alley transactions would start.  Those would be a lot harder to keep track of and the trust in his sister would have to take over.  "I'll make sure nothing has made it into your bags that can harm you," he affirmed with a nod of his head.

Rising had questions for Will-O, but he thought it best for her to rest.  His pause was quickly answered by the snuggling of the mare with her undead bird and she were out faster than any foal he'd seen.  It were for the best.  Plenty of time for more after they left the land of darkness for light.

Carmel made an inquiry about their adventure so far, this time asking for more detail.  Rising opened his mouth.  Dawn quickly shoved her hoof to his mouth to silence him.  "Carmel, darling.  Do be most careful when using the word 'detail' around my brother.  Else he'll regurgitate the simple act of walking down the hall into an hour long story as he even informs you detail down to the number of flickers each candle had as he passed," she warned.  Rising, really only did that to Dawn when he wanted to annoy her.  Usually with how many times she blinked during the conversations.  The detective did nothing as Dawn proceeded to fill in Carmel in less detail.

Rising finally moved his mouth away from his sister's hoof.  "Not assaulted.  A few, less pleasant gifts were given, however," the detective noted.  "We encountered a Rot Farmer.  A Dryad in a decaying tree that Rising fixed.  Some pleasant sales ponies.  One that even didn't wear cloths.  Seems a very rare sight in this land," Dawn added in her own manner.  "Three more events and we can depart for home, for a nice long rest and to greet the marrow for a new beginning in Equestria and Harrowmark relations.  Today has been, a lot" she sighed, but it were a pleasant tiredness.

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"You can pinpoint how long ago, by what she said. In her mind, it sounds as if she were through regular life in your town or village, and then the next she remembers, she is here. Pinpoint the beginning of regular life for you both, and then work back about a month from there, and you will likely hit the rough idea of how long she is missing.

As for treatments... There are options. The most Natural is to show her places and beings you met, while you tell her more details, and see if that jolts her memories. If they are locked down, things gets more complicated, as you will need to have that blockage removed. Potentially you would need to be linked with her mind, and then manually go in to address what is causing the blockage. Under supervision, of course, lest you get lost in her subconsciousness.

“I’m not sure how much Omen and I could help Lin. What she said was about the time we had after we found her. Before that, she lived alone and survived on what skills she learned, while the rest was built on her experiences. The last time we had a normal life was 12 years ago, and that was before we were separated. Finding her, that is something we could consider recent.”

Sen paused for a moment and considered how he’d approach any solutions moving forward. He wouldn’t consider more dangerous treatments, and magically induced options didn’t really sit well with him. Linking his mind with hers was something of a last resort, and telling her of their memories as best they could was already what Omen was doing. Lin’s mind was damaged enough as it was, so anything less intensive or taxing on her sounded good. 

However, it was still a curiosity to Sen how linking minds worked, and despite his general aversion to magic, he isn’t ready to shut out that option. Admittedly, there was a sense of uncertainty in how magic-based solutions worked, but knowing Lin before her memories were tampered with, she would likely approve of it, especially if there was a chance to learn more about the process. There’s more to observe from interactions with Lin, but unknowns or risky options weren’t enticing for now.

“If I may ask, what would the kitsune do to let us link minds? And how can we tell if memories are being blocked?”

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"We all helped to fix you, and then we began to look towards your home. A place you had been forgotten in, and Sen had been exiled from, because he refused to stop looking for you.

I went away, to look for something. Ended up in crystal, but you, Sen, a pony and Master Discord, found me, and got me out of it. And then we chased after the one, who did that. We met Rosa that way. A thestral. He speaks a lot of big words, and always wears tinted glasses. The one we were looking for, hurt others. Had done for a long time, so we helped him, and he us. We all became friends at some point during all of it. You, Sen, Rosa, and I. And Shrimp."

She'd raise her tongue, and use it to lift the refraction's head a little. Something that made him grumble in his sleep, and smack his jaws, but he seemed to refuse to wake up regardless.

"We have met many more. Done strange things too, like going to a carnival, and going to a temple, to find a big gold statue. Rosa got hit then. That is how we went here the first time. It is also why I took you here, when you were hurt later. Because I thought they could help you too.

Before you got hurt, we were looking at things, with the longma. Speaking with an elder, trying to get ready for a meeting, with a council of them. You were taken over by something. A spirit in an orb, and then you collapsed. Others think that it hurt your memory. It looks like they were right.

...We shot laser guns at the carnival. You won that. I think you all said it was fun.

Do you remember anything? Should we show you to Mother, see if she can help you remember? She is very big, and likes you and Sen. Like her own children."

Lin listened to Omen’s recounting, though she had her issues milling in her head. The more she heard, the more it didn’t seem to add up with what she knew. Being broken? Needing to be fixed? Exile? None of this sounded right. She was fine, and she didn’t do anything to end up going missing. Seeing a gateway to another realm and being friends with creatures whose names didn’t sound familiar was just adding to the confusion. However, something stirred in her, as if what Omen mentioned was fact. The more she thought on those things, the more her own memories tried to fight her.

“The things you said… I do not recall. I’m not sure they even happened, but now I can’t say for certain what was true. It’s like waking up from a dream that felt so real. Maybe I should think about what you said some more.”

The longma looked to Omen, still unsure of what she just heard, but deep down, she could feel some connection to her words. There was a moment of silence spent pondering, wondering if there was just a misunderstanding. Unfortunately, that kind of connection also induced a sharp pain, as if something whipped her while crushing her head. Only upon thinking hard enough did she feel that kind of affliction, as she clutched her head in pain and shrieked.

“I… ugh… What just happened? What did that…?”

“Lin? Are you all right?”

“No. I… I don’t know. Everything I was told... it doesn’t sound right, and yet the more I try to remember, the more I believe something in me is wrong. It’s like something is trying to stop me from remembering, and when I think I am close, the pain rushes in.” The longma turned to the head nurse with a worried look on her face, having an inkling that something’s wrong. “Nurse, do you know what is wrong with me? Can this be fixed?”

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-09-13 at 5:17 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“If I may ask, what would the kitsune do to let us link minds? And how can we tell if memories are being blocked?”

The nurse had scribbled down the time gap when it were mentioned, with a frown on her face. A gap that big, were not good. The more memory were lost, the more potential issues might come of it. Or had sprung from it in the first place, and she knew little about the intricate details of how things had come to this as it were.

"We will need more information from Lin, before I can tell if and how her memories are blocked. We will get to those soon, but for starters, just talk with her. See what happens. I will evaluate further from that.

As for what we would do? That depends. If you mean link minds as in you would travel to and try and unlock her memories? That would fall under the purview or Elder Zhao. I can't tell you his methods, but he works as safely as is possible. He likes to speak of his ways himself, so I won't deprive him of that, if it turns out you would prefer that route. We need more information to ensure that is the right choice though."

It would be a pointless endeavor, if the memories were simply not there after all. There had to be some sort of confirmation that there were something, for them to go that route. So for now, they had to run some tests. This where they spoke to one another, were one of them. Just to see if there would be a revelation suddenly, and the memories unlocked by themselves. Unlikely, but you never knew with these sorts of things.

On 2023-09-13 at 5:17 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“I… ugh… What just happened? What did that…?”

“Lin? Are you all right?”

“No. I… I don’t know. Everything I was told... it doesn’t sound right, and yet the more I try to remember, the more I believe something in me is wrong. It’s like something is trying to stop me from remembering, and when I think I am close, the pain rushes in.” The longma turned to the head nurse with a worried look on her face, having an inkling that something’s wrong. “Nurse, do you know what is wrong with me? Can this be fixed?”

Omen had calmly wandered over, when Lin seemed to have an incident. She wasn't sure how to help with it, but something instinctually told her, that she should go over and be there, in case she were needed. Needed for what though, she hadn't the faintest idea.

Shrimp would wake up as he heard the shriek, and rise up, waking confused and worried, as he looked around from side to side, trying to figure out what had made his caretaker give off such an alarming sound. Were they being attacked by giant cats?

The nurse however, would put down her notes, and go fetch her some water and fruit. Some regular things like apple slices and a banana, and other more weird ones, like the dragon fruit, and kiwis.

"Try and get something down.

Now then. This will perhaps sound harsh, but bear with me. Your pain, trying to remember? That's a good sign. Very good in fact.

I know it can't have felt pleasant, but the fact that you do feel there is something wrong, and that you are actively being punished as it were, for trying to access those memories, means that they are there. Either held back by a presence or blockage of some other nature, but they are there. Lost memories are not easy to replicate. In some ways, it is impossible, as you can't remake them exactly like they were, and some are very sensitive to that, if they attempt to be given memories like that. A few have even gone mad from it, feeling their minds were not their own.

This however, can be solved. It will not be easy I can imagine. That much time locked away, is quite a substantial amount to handle, but if we can get pass that hurdle, I believe you will be able to make a full recovery.

That also does mean that this is now above my station. I will send a formal request to the elders, and hope that Elder Zhao is available and feeling up to the challenge today. If not, it might be a few days before we are ready. The elder can't be rushed, unless you want a delicate matter handled with uncertainty. And trust me, you do not want that."

Kitsune were jovial and fickle in a way, but the head nurse were serious, when she were at the job. If she weren't, someone might get injured, and she wouldn't have that on her shoulders. It would be reckless endangerment, considering the amount of kits she had to deal with here, and kitsune were fiercely protective of their young. She did joke around sometimes, but there were still a time and a place, even in those lighter situations. And this were definitely not one of them.

"Can we help her?"

"The procedure does get helped, by individuals that can be considered close friends, or family. It helps to navigate things better. So you would be requested to join for her treatment, if the elder is ready."

This were potentially going to feel like a very long day to them, but there were at least hope at the end of the tunnel. Also risks of course, but with serious matters like this, were there ever not?

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

 

@Rising Dusk

On 2023-09-13 at 3:43 AM, Rising Dusk said:

"I'll make sure nothing has made it into your bags that can harm you,"

"Yes, harm us. Hmhmhm."

Caramel would chuckle a little, as she looked at Rising, with a knowing gaze in her eyes. She knew it wasn't a matter if it could hurt herself and Will-O, as much as the fact that it could hurt some in Equestria. Which were more what she expected, but it were cute that he tried to rephrase it that way. Such a widdle little detective, trying to make his work sound less intrusive than it were.

Kidding aside, she had full on expected that he'd want to examine them, and their belongings, just in case something might be there. Frankly, she would be disappointed if he didn't. He'd be far to gullible otherwise, and he hadn't seemed like a slouch so far. Not as clever as his siter though. That mare had a glimmer in her eye that told stories without details, but still, he were not foolish, and he knew best what were wise to bring with them.

He wouldn't find much, despite the quantity she'd bring though. Most she'd bring with her, were alchemical in nature. Including a few more plants, both local and homebrewed, that she wished to show to his alchemist friend. It were so rare to find one who could appreciate the work that went into these sorts of things, and frankly, she wanted to meet him in person, to see if he were one who did. That plant she had sent, would be a good tester of that. If it had died when she arrived, she would be disappointed. If it flourished, she would be impressed, and see if perhaps they could exchange some notes. She'd like to have someone who actually understood enough of these sorts of things, to have a proper conversation with.

On 2023-09-13 at 3:43 AM, Rising Dusk said:

Carmel made an inquiry about their adventure so far, this time asking for more detail.  Rising opened his mouth.  Dawn quickly shoved her hoof to his mouth to silence him.  "Carmel, darling.  Do be most careful when using the word 'detail' around my brother.  Else he'll regurgitate the simple act of walking down the hall into an hour long story as he even informs you detail down to the number of flickers each candle had as he passed," she warned.  Rising, really only did that to Dawn when he wanted to annoy her.  Usually with how many times she blinked during the conversations.  The detective did nothing as Dawn proceeded to fill in Carmel in less detail.

Rising finally moved his mouth away from his sister's hoof.  "Not assaulted.  A few, less pleasant gifts were given, however," the detective noted.  "We encountered a Rot Farmer.  A Dryad in a decaying tree that Rising fixed.  Some pleasant sales ponies.  One that even didn't wear cloths.  Seems a very rare sight in this land," Dawn added in her own manner.  "Three more events and we can depart for home, for a nice long rest and to greet the marrow for a new beginning in Equestria and Harrowmark relations.  Today has been, a lot" she sighed, but it were a pleasant tiredness.

"A talkative sort, you say? Thank you for the warning dear. I will try and keep my phrasing in mind then, when asking more.

But my, what an eventful time you had. Some indirect stabs at you it sounds like, from a bunch of cowards even. And to think a rot farmer even came to town. That surprises me. The few I knew were likely still out there, were never keen on going near settlements. Not in recent centuries anyway, except... Ah, him I could see. It wouldn't happen to have been Lothar, was it? Lothar Hammertail?"

This seemed to surprise the prince, which gave her a bit more of a wide smirk.

"You seem well informed, my lady."

"Oh, I ran into him some lifetimes ago. Stubborn old dog, but a very reasonable individual. Ever so keenly aware of how things were, and how powerless he were to course correct. I suppose it makes sense that if any of them would try to reach out, they'd go for one of the most approachable ones.

Though to return to other matters- Your story is strange. You mention a dryad? I know what they are, but I thought all of them had left or got cut down before Twisted were even born. Legends speak of them, but I didn't think there were anyone left, and hadn't been for so long. Not that there were ever any story I heard at least, that said what happened to them. Mostly just that they vanished. I always assume they just left, never to return. Like the dragons did, long ago.

I wonder if that means there's more... Well, that will be a problem for more local forces soon enough. No need to boggle my mind with such matters currently. And I'm sure that they will give the one in question some clothes eventually. We're not savages after all."

The mental image of a tree with a shirt on, came to mind, and made her chuckle softly. She really had no idea what a Dryad looked like. She just heard the same old legends that others had, if they looked through old books enough. That the dryads had come, like they did to many other places around the world, to try and help with nature, and that they had issues with the land they had come to. Then suddenly one day, they were gone, and the stories just lived their own life. Some even claimed the wicker creatures they had, sprung from the dryads meddling with things, but that honestly sounded ridiculous to her. She had studied enough, to find they appeared to have evolved well on their own, over the years. Granted, it did not answer where they came from, but she were still skeptical.

"I can imagine you still have some time to rest your heads, before the events begin for you in full. If you want, you could examine what we have with us now? I at least, offer mine for inspection, at any time."

If he cared to look, he would find it mostly mundane stuff. Blade polish, a bag of various dried herbs, a small box of pills, that seemed to be stored in a plat holster, reminiscent of sprouts. And if he'd ask about the pills, she'd let him know that it was pain medication, but that she could leave it if he wanted her to. Though she'd offer to eat one, to prove they weren't poisonous.

There'd also be a small notebook with her findings and various speculations. Probably that's what they said. All were written in code, using a mixture of Harrowish, Ponish, and a code lock. If he did translate it though, he'd find the pages just went with variations of *You need to use your time better*. She kept her real notebooks elsewhere. This were just a dummy one, in case she had to distract or impress, without actually risking her proper work. Though there would still be some more books, but those primarily had other dried leaves and in one case, were hollow, and contained a flask with what smelled like overly sweet mead. A weakness of hers, she'd attest. A little something for a glum evening.

Nothing were magically charged or dangerous looking. Just some alchemy stuff, things for her attire, and a few smaller bags of rations, as well as some lumps of raw gold. As clean as it now could be, when it were found in Harrowmark. Well, except for the amulet stuck on the fur of her upper chest, that had the concealment spell on it. That were still present, but Rising would have known that for a while. He might be okay with it, as it didn't have any magic upon it, that seemed harmful.

Will-O's bags were even simpler. There were some a bag of dried rabbit jerky, a sort of stress ball made out of vines, that had seen better days, and a picture were the main parts. This one depicting Will-O younger, along with Sickle, an older crone, and a younger colt. The crone were gnarled, even if she looked robust, and judging by the clothes, would be how Lily had looked, before she had gotten some healthy years back.

There'd also be a trinket, made of rough straw and bound into the shape of a rough scarecrow. This had some unfortunate magic upon it. An old defensive one, put upon it for her safety more than likely, but it were hard to say when it would trigger, and send a fear spell upon others. A nasty one at that, that would leave the victim terrified for hours, maybe even days, haunted by their nightmares. It had sentimental value, but the curse/protective spell, depending on how you looked at it, were best removed, lest it accidentally fired off, once they crossed over to Equestria. Who knew how a new environment could end up affecting such a thing?

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-15 at 6:52 AM, Blitz Boom said:

As for what we would do? That depends. If you mean link minds as in you would travel to and try and unlock her memories? That would fall under the purview or Elder Zhao. I can't tell you his methods, but he works as safely as is possible. He likes to speak of his ways himself, so I won't deprive him of that, if it turns out you would prefer that route. We need more information to ensure that is the right choice though."

“An elder? Maybe our definitions of elder differ, but I hope the process can help Lin without us discovering something even worse. Whatever took over my sister was angry. It looked like it had powerful magic, but its full capabilities are unknown.”

Recalling the previous encounter with the creature, it only claimed itself to be a “messenger,” and while it succeeded in doing that, the creatures that want the longma would likely want something more. A foothold of a sort, though seeing as it wanted a host body, eliminating memories to create an empty husk could be a start. It wasn’t an enticing idea, but the possibility existed; whether it was true was only a matter of time, especially if a mind link would happen.

On 2023-09-15 at 6:52 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Now then. This will perhaps sound harsh, but bear with me. Your pain, trying to remember? That's a good sign. Very good in fact.

I know it can't have felt pleasant, but the fact that you do feel there is something wrong, and that you are actively being punished as it were, for trying to access those memories, means that they are there. Either held back by a presence or blockage of some other nature, but they are there. Lost memories are not easy to replicate. In some ways, it is impossible, as you can't remake them exactly like they were, and some are very sensitive to that, if they attempt to be given memories like that. A few have even gone mad from it, feeling their minds were not their own.

This however, can be solved. It will not be easy I can imagine. That much time locked away, is quite a substantial amount to handle, but if we can get pass that hurdle, I believe you will be able to make a full recovery.

That also does mean that this is now above my station. I will send a formal request to the elders, and hope that Elder Zhao is available and feeling up to the challenge today. If not, it might be a few days before we are ready. The elder can't be rushed, unless you want a delicate matter handled with uncertainty. And trust me, you do not want that."

What the siblings heard was definitely harsh. Unexpected, but harsh in a manner of speaking. Pain like this being good was not a good thing, even if it was already able to identify the problem. Something definitely was blocking Lin’s memories, likely also leaving a trace of what was needed to suppress memory retrieval. Maybe it was good that Lin’s memories could be recovered, and Nurse Lao’s words were comforting after the fact. Well, some of it, at least. A few days’ time before this Elder Zhao could help, and this would be a process that will take time.

Sen didn’t like the idea that he’d be going to face the elders back home alone, but this would be one of those times when he’d have to step up. Elder Ghilan won’t like what’s happened, and he’d be wondering about the events that led up to… whatever it is the siblings found themselves in. Worrying about that will have to wait. Right now, Lin needs all the help she can get, and he'd provide whatever assistance necessary.

“We’ll do everything we can to help. Lin? Rest for now. Don’t try to think about what you were told.”

“All right, but I don’t know if I could keep my mind from wandering.”

Lin would eat the fruits given to her. A nice and succulent distraction for now, though it would be difficult to keep the mind idle. It was irresistible to think about what Omen said, about their shared past despite having no recollection of it. Or rather, having blank spots in her mind that would likely be filled in by the missing memories. She’d feel little jolts of pain in her head similar to electricity crackling and coursing through, but other instances felt like claws crushing her mind if she tried again. It was invoking some kind of torture to herself, and whatever did this didn’t want her remembering.

Sadly, even seeing herself, or what’s become of her now was enough to get her mind racing. Sen was about as normal as longma could go: brown hide, leathery wings, branched horns… She didn’t match that anymore, and it was discomforting to see herself be similar to Omen. This was the first of many proofs that her memories were tampered with, and that was just enough to have the pain come rushing back.

“Aagh! Nrrgh… even looking at myself is like remembering!”

“You need to take it easy, at least until we can get you some help. Nurse Lao? Before you send the request, would it be safe for Lin if we provide her with some kind of distraction? Something to keep her mind off trying to remember her missing memories? It looks like even getting some hint of what she’s supposed to know is enough to cause pain.”

[Catpone Cerberus 23,228]

@Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp
The twins didn't actually feel any pity towards Onache, at least not in that way, it was unfortunate what happened, but being very used to watching allies fall, it had no real emotional effect on them, or if it did, they buried it so well that they themselves weren't aware of it. Instead their 'worry' was more practical kind, Onache would most likely want to know that the one who attacked her was identified and dealt with. 

"And where do you have to hurry to? the problem was dealt with, I doubt you have any more school today, and we for sure have nowhere to be." Sheska remarked "Since it was you who asked for it first, it's only fair we go first, Chega here has also been demanding us for our story, so it's two birds with one stone." "First, bit of a background on our world."

"What you need to know, is that, based on what we have been told of this world, our worlds have lot in common, even if they are quite different." "The point where they started going to different directions, seems to be somewhere around 1000 or more years ago." "In our world, who you call 'Luna' and 'Celestia', are no more, as they became something else over thousand years ago, Daybreaker, and Nightmare Moon." "You probably recognize the latter name, but she is different from what your view of her may be, because as we hinted at earlier when talking about gods, the sisters in our world are less ponies and more beings of power, gods you could say." "And since they became that, they have been at war, thus, Equestria, as a whole, has been in state of constant warfare for last thousand years." 

"Kobolds come in later, we aren't sure on the exact timeline, as we don't count years like you do, but we are talking something along the lines of few centuries ago." "The sisters, in our community's case, Nightmare Moon, invaded and destroyed our caves, we can go in more detail if you want to hear it, or if you want to hear why certain ancestor isn't liked." "After we were forced to the surface, ponies enslaved us." "The generations of enslavement were relatively boring when it comes to telling stories, with only two things worth of note, The parasite epidemic that killed huge numbers of kobold slaves, and the actions of certain family member." "After generations went on, technology got better and better, and eventually slavery as a whole started to fade, because machines were simply better in every way than any creature." "It never went fully away though, it's still legal and socially accepted, but it is more elites' thing now, and is usually for things that involve....emotional connection." "And while we are no longer slaves as a whole, we are still, at best, second class citizens." "Only reason we aren't seen as just sentient vermin is because our kind does jobs that machines can't and other creatures won't." 

"And that brings the story to us two." "Our hatchling time was great by our world's standards, we didn't starve to death and didn't sleep in the rain, though that's entirely thanks to our community rather than anything ponies did."  "Our parents taught us pretty much everything, or well, the basics of everything, but you know what we mean." "We never wanted to become fighters of any kind, we wanted to help others, as our choices in professions should tell you."  "But, sometimes things are chosen for you, and that happened with us."

"Around the time of what you'd call adolescence, our parents suddenly woke us up, and told us to run." "When we came back home, there was no home, and no parents; the guard had visited, and as tends to be in the style for the military there, they destroyed everything." "Thankfully our parents had decided to live outside our community, because while it meant there was nobody to help them, the guard would have no doubt slaughtered anyone and everyone around."  

"Our community took care of us after that, but we found it hard to settle, as we were used to the more remote location, and our parents' fate bothered us." "Kobolds were mistreated yes, but such targeted attack was rare, if not unheard of." "So we looked into it, and after lot of unimportant events, we found out that they were founders of a rebel group, and due to our trouble getting used to the regular life of a kobold, we joined the group." "And so we followed in our parents steps, and build a home outside the community, living a double life of rebellion and regular kobold." 

"We did lot of things during that time, all worth of their own stories." "We lost allies, limbs and all hope for the future, but we kept going." "Eventually we became leaders of the group, not because we were good at leading, but because we were the longest surviving members, the lifespan of a rebel is short." "And so is the life of rebel groups, as ours met the same fate as all before it, and all after it, most members were killed, and some of us were captured and imprisoned for 'treason' ". "The punishment includes some 'interrogation' too, thus the scars." At this mention Sheska fell silent, to which Trox seemed very apologetic, and he wrapped his hands around her in a comforting hug, whispering something to her before continuing "No more about that, but anyway, the imprisonment is a form of magically induced sleep, in which you don't get any rest, and after a while, as your brain gets bored, you start seeing dreams, often nightmares." 

"We have no clue how long we were in that state, before we suddenly woke up as power to the prison had gone out, we broke out, and found ourselves here, inside Onache's home to be exact." 

Besides Sheska's reaction to the mention of the scars, the kobolds were very much casual about all of it, mentions of the certain family member did ignite little bit of hate in them every time she was mentioned, but only way it showed was little bit of change in their voice. 

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

"The feral ones?" Ruby repeated "We have feral ones sure, but I doubt they are the feral ones, since like everything else in the Homelands, I have a feeling our deer are quite different to whatever you think when you say deer." "In general, only higher intelligence in the Homelands is us, the dragons, because like what happened to the other big predators, we kill everything that could be competition, thus, any intelligent species that is not dragons would be wiped out before they could become anything." "Our deer are big, tough, and extremely hostile, their antlers are strong and sharp enough to penetrate our scales, though any dragon above certain size doesn't need to worry about it, as they can't put enough force behind their attacks to get through thicker scales."  

"Guess I hadn't considered that more than one prey animal can survive long enough to become intelligent species." 

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-09-16 at 4:45 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“An elder? Maybe our definitions of elder differ, but I hope the process can help Lin without us discovering something even worse. Whatever took over my sister was angry. It looked like it had powerful magic, but its full capabilities are unknown.”

Recalling the previous encounter with the creature, it only claimed itself to be a “messenger,” and while it succeeded in doing that, the creatures that want the longma would likely want something more. A foothold of a sort, though seeing as it wanted a host body, eliminating memories to create an empty husk could be a start. It wasn’t an enticing idea, but the possibility existed; whether it was true was only a matter of time, especially if a mind link would happen.

"The wisest among our elders, leads the kitsune. No matter the town, this remains the way things are.

There are certain times, when an elder cannot be found though. The ones they had all died off, and the remaining of the elderly, are not suitable for the task, due to a lack of wisdom, or questionable morals. In those cases, the leadership goes to a Zhi'Dahla. Basically the most qualified among the remaining ones. It translates roughly into *Young elder*. One of the western villages are lead by a Zhi'Dahla, named Sato Kozue. A young one, but he is qualified for his role. Which officially is Zhi'Dahla Kozue.

I've met him a few times. I think in time, he's going to become a fine elder in his own right, with new traditions "

Becoming a Zhi'Dahla were a great responsibility for anyone. The elders had years of experience to grow wise, and refine their skills better, to lead well. A Zhi'Dahla did not have that time to be that, but would be evaluated by the elders of the primary village, to have what it took to shoulder such burdens, and be the leader their village needed. Sato Kozue were among the youngest they had ever chosen for such a role, having been only 16 when he were brought forth and asked to do this, after the previous elder had died, and the remaining five above the normal age threshold, were incapable of doing the task for various reasons. Others had been considered, but the elders had noticed how Kozue were already one, that the kits sought out for guidance, as he helped the younglings of the town, being relatable to them, and approaching them with respect and reason that they could accept and agree with.

There had been worries of course, when he had accepted the role, and moved on to try and lead more generally, but under the guidance of Elder Mahi, he took to the teachings well, and proved capable of doing his task. Might be he went at it differently, than many of the more traditional elders, but that were okay too. The kitsune were traditionalists, but they did not abhor their culture evolving, and going forth. Long as their traditions were respected, and the spirits especially, were not forgotten or mocked, there were plenty of room and acceptance for trying to bring a fresh perspective to things. And a young mind like Kozue, certainly had a few ways to do things differently. Thus far though, in ways that were seen as acceptable, even if some did think him a bit odd, and unqualified. But there'd always be those, and most kept their opinions to themselves.

Perhaps they could learn something from that in due time, that could help their own young elder. As well as this being a system that the longma in general, might be able to relate to, to some extend. But such things were for the future, when there were not far more pressing matters to think about.

On 2023-09-16 at 4:45 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“We’ll do everything we can to help. Lin? Rest for now. Don’t try to think about what you were told.”

“All right, but I don’t know if I could keep my mind from wandering.”

Shrimp looked at the fruit with interest, but didn't go over to beg for some right now. He would normally, but something wasn't right now, with his caretaker. She were wrong somehow, he understood that much, though the details were too big for his young mind to grasp. He mostly thought of it, as her needing the food, so she could get nice and healthy, though he would nibble Omen, and slither down towards the pouch she had around her neck, to signal he wanted some dried fruit. Which he'd get, as Omen slided her tongue into it, and wrapped around a few slices, that she'd bring up to him. He'd need some water after, seeing as these were dried, but it'd be a start at least.

On 2023-09-16 at 4:45 PM, EQ_Theta said:

Sadly, even seeing herself, or what’s become of her now was enough to get her mind racing. Sen was about as normal as longma could go: brown hide, leathery wings, branched horns… She didn’t match that anymore, and it was discomforting to see herself be similar to Omen. This was the first of many proofs that her memories were tampered with, and that was just enough to have the pain come rushing back.

“Aagh! Nrrgh… even looking at myself is like remembering!”

“You need to take it easy, at least until we can get you some help. Nurse Lao? Before you send the request, would it be safe for Lin if we provide her with some kind of distraction? Something to keep her mind off trying to remember her missing memories? It looks like even getting some hint of what she’s supposed to know is enough to cause pain.”

"Lihm?"

Shrimp stopped eating, seeing how Lin seemed to be in pain. He did not like this. He wanted it to stop, and her be okay again. Not feel bad. But he didn't know what to do here. He had to hope that his other caretakers would know. If not... No, it were too much. he couldn't figure this one out on his own. maybe he'd find something that'd cheer her up later? Maybe she'd like a dance? He wasn't sure right now... Everything felt wrong with this.

"She will be fine, Shrimp." 

"Huh, fascinating pet...

Anyway, something to distract her... Perhaps you should walk with me, as I make the request in person then, instead of sending a message origami? The sight of the village might distract you from thinking of yourself. Who knows? Perhaps you are in luck, and the elder will feel up for having a look at you right away, instead of hours, if not days later. Elder Zhao is not unreasonable, so if he has the strength, there is a good chance he will be amendable to your request."

If they agreed, she would lead them down the hallway of the school, and out of the nearest side door, revealing their sprawling town.

They had seen some the last time they were here. The school yard in passing specifically, but as they moved further, there were much more to it. Stone and wooden buildings, often with ponds, and most with gardens. Small critters traversing around, often playing with small kits that were yet of age for school, leaping around playfully.

A group of adult kitsune were training in a garden to the side, passing a ball of magic between them, each adding a new element as they touched it, and moved it faster towards the next. The ball going from air, to water, to even fire, with the game being to see who would fail to transmute it first. A little harmless fun for the younger adults, and sometimes done as a drinking game. Which seemed to be the case here, judging by the thing vase-like container of sake, and the small cups near it. A few also seemed to be a bit windswept or wet, so it had gone on for a bit.

Most of the kitsune they passed, wore kimonos, males as well as females. Beautiful garments, in various colors, and with differing patterns. Rare were it to see one that were plain, unless it were a special occasion, and today were not one of those.

Them wandering down the natural, peaceful street, they'd have some that turned to look, but most seemed welcoming of the odd faces, and nodded, or lifted a paw in greeting. The kits did not go near them though. Most would just stand and stare, or rush over to hide behind their parents. Not due them being afraid per se, but more instinct. Something taught and encouraged by their parents and elders, to keep them safe, when faced with the unknown. Though there were certainly young eyes on them. They were wandering with the school nurse after all. They had to be okay, yes? It would be weird otherwise, for her to walk with them around their town so calmly.

There would be some buildings looking a little more modern on their paths, with either some electronic device dangling around, or pictures that were less fitting, with the overall traditional setting they were gazing upon, but the kitsune did not shun those things. They accepted that some of theirs were curious, and allowed them freely to have such things, long as it did not take over. A small gaming machine, or some changes to your appearance, or things on your property, were but curiosity by some, of the world around them. There were naught to be fearful of in that. Though if one were to try to for instance, build their house from scratch to fit he standard of a metropolis, or tried to pave over their garden and install a gaudy looking greenhouse for instance, the elders would get involved, to ask them to remember their roots. Adding things they saw from the outside were fine, and just the way that some would evolve. But it should not erase their own culture and heritage. It should co-exist with it.

Eventually, they'd be able to see their target location. Might be hard to see the building itself at first, as it looked overgrown, sitting in the midst of the lake, water running from the top, and flowing down into the river, that made its way through the rest of the village. One with nice, clean water, despite what natural things it ran though. A bit of magic, that helped them thrive in their environment easier.

As one would notice it being a building though, it would be quite the sight. Not that much larger than a nice house, nature were working in harmony with it. Several stone tablet were scattered around, overgrown with vines, yet placed with purpose, and if you looked, you'd find that there were several kitsune wandering the higher layers of the outside. Either with gardening tools, or spears, though it were not many.

As for how to go there? A bridge stood between the edge of the lake, and the front end, where the door stood waiting for visitors, or others to exit from it.

(something like this, but smaller)

"So we are here. The Elder Hall.

Must seem unimpressive to you, I can imagine? There used to be a large, mansion-like building, many generations ago, but it were a waste of space. The elders did not need that much, and so, it were rebuild, and given better purpose.

When you are ready, we should proceed. If you are in luck, Elder Zhao is here today, and wiling to help. But remember, that you are interacting with our leaders here. It is expected, that you show them respect."

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"What a horrible way of life."

"Such loss and pain... No wonder you are so hardened."

It had struck both the twins as odd that the kobolds had been the way they were. Battle hardened, cold, distant to others- But it made sense, when you saw things in context. A life like they had, were perilous, and would change a being in many ways. Certainly into the way they were now, and frankly, it were amazing that they hadn't gotten harsher or cruel due to it. Many wouldn't have the resolve to do what they had done, and still come out at least somewhat normal. But all things considered, Trox and Sheska seemed to be doing well.

It also explained well why they didn't want to go and live at the school. They were used to living outside of the community, so even if they settled down in this area, it'd probably be somewhere in the forest, rather than inside the town limits. Which would mean they'd get to be neighbors with a draconequui, but at least they wouldn't have to worry about Blitz lighting the forest on fire, or blasting rockets long into the night. That was an issue for Deltrot now. As for the draconequui... She made Shark. Maybe saying they hung out with her a bit, would make her willing to just leave them alone, most of the time. Probably not all the time though. Draconequui didn't know how to keep their nose out of others business.

And speaking of SHark, her mind wandered a while ago, and she were currently munching on a salt cracker that she found left on a nearby table. She had approached it from below, raising her head up so her eyes could gaze upon it, and then look around, just to make sure that there were not anyone this belonged to. But the table were cleared, and were about to be cleaned off in fact. The server looked a bit confused frankly, as he saw what Shark were doing - as well as wondered why she were saying "Du-dun. Du-dun" - but would tentatively try and push the cracker towards her, just to see if this is what her eyes were upon. When it were close enough, she'd rise a hoof up, and put it on the cracker, then slowly slide it backwards, and putting it into her mouth. Then just as slowly, begin to wander back from the table, head in the same height, and still saying "Du-dun. Du-dun*. Eye contact not broken with the server at any time.

He were very, very confused, and would eventually just turn around, and walk back to the kitchen. As to why Shark had done this? She weren't sure. It had felt like it'd be fun though, and she did giggle now that it were over, cracker in her mouth. A bit stale, as it had been there for a bit. Likely having been in a bowl before that. But hey, it were a free snacky, and she didn't know better if it were supposed to be like this anyway. Tasted fine to her.

"It's good that you're here now at least. We hear things about Equestria-"

"And Ponyville especially, these days."

"- but even if the worst ones were right, you should have a far easier life here. Most other places too, that I've heard of at least."

Honestly, they weren't sure what to say. This were a story for Light, but they had heard it too, and it felt as if they had to say something. Anything. Yet even as they spoke, they felt their words were insufficient. Somehow lesser, than what the story had deserved, but they didn't know what else to say. It mostly boiled down to them just mentioning again, what horrible lives it sounded like the two of them had before this, because their world sounded absolutely horrifying.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Your deer sounds like some tough snacks. I can respect that honestly. Not a lot of prey that can just go through dragon scales. That's mostly a predator thing, or something annoying that gets between the scales, like porcupine quills.

Makes sense though, the way you say it. Not much way for them to evolve to have a society, or being smart, when they have to fight so harshly to survive, against some top grade apex predators. Something tells me there's gonna be more creatures and even plants where you came from, that's significantly more tough than the versions I'm used to.

Next you're gonna tell me all the fish can crack your teeth and spray acid or something."

She really hoped that weren't the case. She liked to eat fish, but she also liked her teeth. It'd suck if she couldn't even have a snack while they were there, without her food being obnoxious to eat.

The thought alone made her shiver a bit. Cracked teeth all over... Might be new would grow out, but that were still suck a pain in her tail. She'd frankly rather that they got on their way here, or talked about something else, so she wouldn't have to think about that too much.

[StrawberryMilk Simp 12,153]

@Blitz Boom @Catpone Cerberus

Light would listen diligently.

" i see... so your world was not affected by Starlight Glimmer's tampering of time. Yours where tampered by writers." He gave a disheartening sigh.

" most likely that world would not last and collapse. You have a cruel Writer."

" i guess it's my turn. Where do i even start?"

There once was a pony filled with Light,

ever so joyful and brings hope to night.

but the one who writes,

is field with blight.

With the stroke of it's quill,

His fate is sealed.

Forever trapped on an endless cycle, 

a faith that's quite vile.

But opportunity was shown,

the Light's time to own.

Turned the curse, 

Even worse.

Both of them owned.

Now they are sworn.

Order is born.

Light has sworn order.

Faith's thread warder.

But would not last any longer,

for he has fallen farther.

For the curse remained forever.

Renamed Order of darkness.

 

Light's words have depth and feeling to it. It seems quite near and dear to him.

" hehe.... that was my original's life story... passed down to the variants such as i. It seems i was born from a split of another dimension that wasn't supposed to exist. So the order controlled it to make it so i can have a similar faith as the original. And destroyed it.

Hence my original... became the writer...."

 

 

 

[Rising Dusk 24,746]

@Blitz Boom

Rising chose his words as he did.  Caramel picked up on them quickly of course, it told of her wit and level of amusement she might find in the detective.  His words weren't just that of hidden meaning.  To protect Equestria from anything that might enter from the dark lands?  Of course.  However, there was no lie in his words.  For the detective need protect them from Equestria as well.  Subject to new laws the duo did not know of yet.  Rising wouldn't want them to end up making a bad first impression with accidental mishaps.  Harm, came in two meanings from two directions.  He'd leave it at that, untouched.

At least Dawn's fear of letting Rising slip into a detailed rant about their events remained intact.  None that knew him would describe the detective as, talkative.

He remained respectful while Caramel and Dawn exchanged stories of their adventures over the last few hours.  While they did so, he'd inspect their bags.  No need to be too invasive, any magic their bags might have contained would have been detected.  He might not have seen the tapestry of the spell work, depending on the power in the spell, but glows were rather useful giveaways.  Plus, the contents of the bags were etched into his brain for all time.  Easy an analyze and take back with him for further research, at least when it came to the herbs and such he was less familiar with than Bash.  The scarecrow stuck out to him, being of defensive in nature.  No more nasty than anything he'd have dispelled helping the Sisters of Troy with their traveling market of bad things.  Not something one want going off when they crossed into Equestria.  These were the kind of artifacts Rising and the O.M.I. hunted and made safe, after all.

His horn ignited with its orange glow and just as quickly followed the black wisps of the Spell Breaker.  A black wisp slid along a thin line of magic that served as the closest thing to a border the spell had.  Unseen, unheard, but to Rising it was music,  it was art.  The thread unfurrowed, slithering away from the rest of the spell as it dissolved back into the aether.  The spell came to life as the energies were disturbed and sought new places to go.  His wisps worked like herding dogs to chase the wild magics looking to undo themselves in explosive, fear spreading glory.  A snip here, a slash there and the audible fizzle of a dying spell.

"That could have waited, brother dearest," the grumpy tone of his sister abashed him as he closed the bag.  "They offered," he replied.  "That isn't the point.  Manners.  They offered."

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-19 at 6:08 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"The wisest among our elders, leads the kitsune. No matter the town, this remains the way things are.

There are certain times, when an elder cannot be found though. The ones they had all died off, and the remaining of the elderly, are not suitable for the task, due to a lack of wisdom, or questionable morals. In those cases, the leadership goes to a Zhi'Dahla. Basically the most qualified among the remaining ones. It translates roughly into *Young elder*. One of the western villages are lead by a Zhi'Dahla, named Sato Kozue. A young one, but he is qualified for his role. Which officially is Zhi'Dahla Kozue.

I've met him a few times. I think in time, he's going to become a fine elder in his own right, with new traditions "

“The Zhi’Dahla sounds like a wonderful figure. Back home, the longma have several elders, each one leading their own villages. I know of one, a friend and the youngest of the elders, barely an adult. His name is Ghilan, though that isn’t his true name. He gave it up when he chose to become an elder. If he and your young elder were to meet, I believe Ghilan could learn much.”

Ghilan was on his own track to becoming a full-fledged elder, but many of his early days spent learning were through unsavory experiences. Opposition was high, and many did not see him as capable. Even now, he is beset by doubters for good reason, and many would rather see someone with more experience lead the village. Hardline traditionalists within the hunters only tolerate Ghilan at best, though some may see this as an opportunity to try and usurp leadership. One could only imagine what the elder would go through day by day.

This Kozue, at least by the description Nurse Lao mentioned, sounded like someone whom Ghilan could find common ground with. As a young elder in his own right, he may see a chance to learn from someone with experience. Circumstances notwithstanding, that would be difficult, especially when he himself is training an apprentice. That’ll be a problem for a different day, however, but he’ll look forward to any chance to learn from someone more knowledgeable.

On 2023-09-19 at 6:08 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"She will be fine, Shrimp." 

"Huh, fascinating pet...

Anyway, something to distract her... Perhaps you should walk with me, as I make the request in person then, instead of sending a message origami? The sight of the village might distract you from thinking of yourself. Who knows? Perhaps you are in luck, and the elder will feel up for having a look at you right away, instead of hours, if not days later. Elder Zhao is not unreasonable, so if he has the strength, there is a good chance he will be amendable to your request."

For the moment, Lin’s pain would come and go, a throbbing in her head that stung at times, and crushed on others. It was something to endure, though the little creature that appeared to worry for her was a comforting sight. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of it, though being able to say her name to some degree suggested familiarity. That kind of reassurance, though welcomed, intensified her pain, and she longed to find something to distract her. So it was that she tried to get up and walk with the head nurse, only to be stopped by her brother, who helped her up. She wouldn’t be able to walk normally, settling for hobbling with her brother’s support.

“We will go with you, Nurse Lao. Please forgive us if we slow you down; Lin’s pain lingers, and we aren’t sure what else might trigger it. Thank you as well for accommodating us.”

“Ngrrh… I will endure it. Let us… proceed. Brother, Omen? I…”

“Lean on us and take it slow.”

There wouldn’t be more to question, and the siblings would follow after Nurse Lao. Sen remembers the sight of the town, or what he could still remember from what little he saw. The kitsune had what looked like an idyllic paradise here, modern in some respects, but there was no doubt it held its unique identity. There was a reminder of what the forest could look like if it could be developed with nature preserved, though it’ll be years before any of such things could be made reality. 

As they walked, Sen and Lin caught wind of some of the kitsune eyeing them. Understandable that they would harbor some suspicions, but it was a far cry from hostility among their own kind. The longma could still remember seeing himself in a similar situation back then: holding up his wings around Lin and Omen while they were being pelted with rocks and rotten fruit, the jagged stones cutting into his skin. It felt like a lifetime ago, but there was never regret in what he did. This was much more preferable, and had it not been for Lin’s current predicament, he may one day find himself taking a stroll here if the Kitsune permitted it.

Once they found themselves at their destination, the siblings felt like they were transported to an entirely new realm. Beautiful wasn’t enough to describe what they saw, and it was just plain to see the moment when their breaths were taken away by the view. 

On 2023-09-19 at 6:08 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"So we are here. The Elder Hall.

Must seem unimpressive to you, I can imagine? There used to be a large, mansion-like building, many generations ago, but it were a waste of space. The elders did not need that much, and so, it were rebuild, and given better purpose.

When you are ready, we should proceed. If you are in luck, Elder Zhao is here today, and wiling to help. But remember, that you are interacting with our leaders here. It is expected, that you show them respect."

“Unimpressive? It’s wonderful! Nothing back home could compare to this! Whoever thought of merging a structure like this with nature this way must be a master of their craft. The designers and builders should be applauded. I… umm… was getting carried away. Let’s continue on and see Elder Zhao. Rest assured he will be shown the utmost respect.”

Lin marveled at the sights before her eyes, and although it eased some of her pain, hearing Sen gush like a child was what got her quietly chuckling. It has been some time since she remembered him like this. It made enduring the pain much more manageable. Even the simplicity of being surrounded by friendly and helpful creatures like Omen and Nurse Lao did wonders.

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

On 2023-09-20 at 3:29 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“The Zhi’Dahla sounds like a wonderful figure. Back home, the longma have several elders, each one leading their own villages. I know of one, a friend and the youngest of the elders, barely an adult. His name is Ghilan, though that isn’t his true name. He gave it up when he chose to become an elder. If he and your young elder were to meet, I believe Ghilan could learn much.”

"Perhaps they could learn from one another then. Zhi'Dhala Kozue is still young. Filled with determination and are wise in his own way, but he is not tempered with age, and sometimes, that means learning from errors. I think you'd find him amicable to the idea of meeting with your own young elder at some point, if it were. You can make a request through our elders to set up a meeting at some point in the future, and then see when it suits them. I'm certain Elder Ghilan have his responsibilities to his people as well, and must allocate his time wisely."

It were not a bad idea honestly. They would both have experience being a young one, in a society guided by their elders normally, having to lift a heavy burden. It were possible they could learn much from how one another approached things, as well as how they dealt with their actual elders, who were established better, and whilst equal in rank, were still technically their betters, due to experience with the job, and life in general.

Yet it were not for her to decide. The Zhi'Dahla were in another town, and as all of their towns were heavily warded, they'd need a guide to go there. And for that to happen, they needed permission from Kozue, or the elders in their town, who could make an inquiry on their behalf.

On 2023-09-20 at 3:29 PM, EQ_Theta said:

“Unimpressive? It’s wonderful! Nothing back home could compare to this! Whoever thought of merging a structure like this with nature this way must be a master of their craft. The designers and builders should be applauded. I… umm… was getting carried away. Let’s continue on and see Elder Zhao. Rest assured he will be shown the utmost respect.”

Lin marveled at the sights before her eyes, and although it eased some of her pain, hearing Sen gush like a child was what got her quietly chuckling. It has been some time since she remembered him like this. It made enduring the pain much more manageable. Even the simplicity of being surrounded by friendly and helpful creatures like Omen and Nurse Lao did wonders.

During their walk, the nurse would be certain to give them the time they needed, and would stand ready to interfere, if the pain became too much, and it seemed like Lin were about to break. IN which case, she might pat her paw against Lin's head repeatedly, like she were a cat. An odd maneuver, but it would work in lessening the pain.

This were just how it were with the kitsune. They were majestic and elegant looking, but their magic worked in peculiar ways, and especially the way they applied healing magic, tended to look rather playful most of the time. Certainly you could get past that, but that were rather advanced, and mostly more of a case of replacing the playful outlet, with more theatrical flourish. Such as making use of mist, or dance.

They'd be left alone, as none wanted to disturb someone who were clearly in pain, which were just an additional reason for others to simply stay put with their own lives. There'd be some concerning looks though. Imagine if someone suddenly died on the open street here. An outsider no less, that they hadn't seen before. They didn't know the burial rites of whatever she were, in case that happened, and they weren't sure of her beliefs were, so that they could try and lead her spirit to where it needed to. It could be all from the widely believed in Elysium, to something like theirs, where the spirit realm and their own, were connected and intertwined at certain times, and without knowing the proper rites, they might condemn the soul, rather than help it.

Also, they didn't want someone to die where their kits could witness it. It were too much for their young minds, even if they were a predatory race. Big difference between a chicken, and a higher sentience being.

When the comment came about their building, the nurse lifted an eyebrow. It were not the response she had expected to be honest, but frankly, it were one that she appreciated, as were shown by the small smile she got on her sly face.

"And here I thought you would be unappreciative, towards the majesty of nature. Your kind is different than several others tend to be.

As for the construction, it were lead by one of our elders, when he were still a young kitsune. Working tirelessly around the year to settle stone and the right inscriptions, he approached the spirits during our day of remembrance, asking them humbly of their blessings, upon the materials that would in time, become the new elder hall. Then worked tirelessly with the blessed materials for a year, that they might see the fruits of his labor when they returned once more.

It were a big project, but he had good helpers, and the blessing given to him by no less than Ha-Nuhra Ine herself, filled him with determination, to see it done before they'd return, yet with no stone set poorly. And lo and behold, it flourish, in perfect harmony with nature. Even now, unseen by the uninitiated, spirits frolic in the leaves, and dance down the stream. A great work, that the elders of the time, say they had never seen alike.

Elder Garo says he finds peace in sitting in the halls of his work, though I feel it have more to do with the beanbag chairs. He have become infatuated with those things."

"I have tried sitting in one of those. I kept falling off." 

The nurse looked at Omen, but wasn't sure what to say to that. or her in general. She had heard what she were. A construct of some kind, made by Discord long ago, so she should expect some weirdness. Yet, she had acted somewhat normal so far. A few odd mentions yes, but nothing chaotic. It honestly disappointed her a little, but she supposed, that the day were still young. There were time for things to change. Hopefully it wouldn't be as they met the elders though.

Crossing the bridge, and making their way to the door, they'd find it would be ease to open for the kitsune. If they tried, they wouldn't be able to make the door budge. They didn't know the magic to do these things, which rested subtly on the pads of Nurse Lao's paw, as she pushed the door.

Entering the building, they'd find the front room were more or a meeting hall of sorts. Several kitsune, young as well as old, sat around drinking tea, and enjoying some small biscuits set about in bowls. None seemed to stand out as being extra important though. There were one kit though, that couldn't be all that old, currently running circles around an adult male's chair, as he sat and drank. She appeared very excited, whereas all others were calm and jovial.

"Welcome to the reception, as one could call it. The elders themselves, tend to spend most of their time in this building, further in, but they didn't want others to simply stand in a long line on the bridge, so they use the first room here for others to meet up, and await their time to potentially meet with the elders. Others come here to socialize, and as for Hihi Fei over there, she's here to see Elder Mohri. Her great grandmother. The elder cannot show favor to some over others, even if they are family, but if there are none here to see her, she tends to be more than happy to offer some time to her descendant. As you can see, it gets her quite excited.

If you would wait here a moment, I will make  a request, and see if Elder Zhao is approachable today."

She would wander over to a line, and get ready to approach what seemed to be a blue flame, where others would put small scribbled notes into.

"Heh, good luck getting Zhao to answer."

The voice would come from behind them, and if they looked, they'd see a young kitsune. Looked like a teenager, smiling towards them with a curious glimmer in his eyes. He wore a light-blue kimono, with sea-weed colored engravings of a great serpent, that stood out among the usually darker ones with lighter patterns on, that they had otherwise passed.

"Why would we need luck?"

"It's hard to explain. How about I just show you? That line could take hours to have answered as things are right now, and your friend here seems like she's not doing too good. Sounds to me like you'd want to go up to Zhao faster. I know a shortcut, but we'll have to work fast.

Name's Choha by the way."

If they agreed, he'd put a paw up to signal *shhh*, whilst pointing towards the school nurse, indicating that they shouldn't tell her.

So if they were ready, he'd lead them to the side, and push in one of the wall panels, revealing a hidden passageway, that he'd urge them to enter, and then lead them through. It would go slowly upwards, but not by much, before it would lead to a dead end. Pushing said dead end, would open up into a room with a large pond in the middle, filled with various water lilies and fish, as well as various other pond life, native to the area.

As they'd exit here, and the pathway be closed again, Choha would grin, and point towards the right, that'd lead to the far end of this room, and likely towards somewhere else.

"Not far now. See? Nice and easy."

If they decided to not follow him, as he had offered them, he would instead just chuckle, and look at them, waiting to see if they'd switch opinion. If not... Well, the nurse would return soon enough.

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

 

@Rising Dusk

"I did indeed offer, even on Will-O's behalf. Poor filly have enough on her mind, without having to add worries of her belongings on top of that. I assure you, that whatever you tracked in there, are merely for sentimental value. She does not have the darkness of her grandfather within her."

"I'm still surprised that there is an heir to that dark legacy. I wouldn't think Twisted one who cared for progeny."

"With all due respect your highness, isn't it a little duplicitous, that you attempt to make yourself more oblivious than you are? I may not have seen you before, but I have heard plenty, and the word that come to describe you, are not foolish. You know, well as I, why he would care for an heir."

The prince would look calmly at Caramel, though he did internally wish that he could simply go over and bonk her, whilst asking her to please refrain from potentially tarnishing his persona, by implying he were lying to them for nefarious purposes. But whilst he had the authority, it would be a childish act, that had no merit to it. It were best to avoid indulging in such barbaric wants.

"If you pressure me for a guess, my best is assuming that he had a mare bear a foal of his, not out of love, but as a way to ensure he had an heir to pass his spirit on to, in the unlikely case that he were defeated. Yet I can't say for certain. I have not been told things around her mother, or her mother before that, so it is hard to say with certainty."

"Better. Though I have been more around, and I do in fact know of her mother. The foal of a mare, who threw herself to the horrors in the swamps, for unknown reasons. One who later found an unknown stallion to mate with, that died before her legacy were found out, and she were injured, and chased into the swamps. Barely making it away, and all the way to Oaksbrook. An unnamed mare, uttering only the wish for Will-O Wisp to be taken care of, before her last breath faltered from her injuries.

That were the reason that Woodborough were utterly destroyed, by Twisted. Out of love or protection of his asset, one might only guess, but he left none alive, that knew of Will-O's legacy. Except for me, as he knew not that I had frequented the town in the past, and could make certain logical connections from what happened before, and after the attack.

Will-O never knew her, but I believe her name were Breeze Meadow. I yet ponder if I should let her know this later, but at least for now, she have plenty enough on her mind."

She'd send a calm gaze towards the resting Will-O, laying soundly with her bird. A sight which couldn't help make a bit of a smile come to her face.

"You seem to care much for her."

"I've been in Oaksbrook for years. It is hard not to care some for those there, and I took a close interest in Will-O, once I became Caramel. I wanted to see if there were a trace of the evil of her forefather to be found, yet I saw nothing but a kind filly, that grew up with her own struggles, that still thought of others first. It is hard to not find joy in such company, and that close to Twisted's domicile? Joy were not a plentiful resource all days. I can assure you of that.

She is distraught now, but I do believe what happens to her now, is for the best. She does not suit the darkness of Harrowmark. And now that it seems her possessions are cleared, I will think that another checkmark off the list of potential worries our dear savior might have had. Lest he thinks I've been hiding something from him, hmm?"

She'd send him a teasing smile, just to see if he'd take the bait. She literally couldn't hide anything magical from him, so she hadn't even bothered. That said, she did seed her belongings with a little something, Just a jest of course. Wouldn't want to cause potential issues by having a flesh-golem or something dreadful snuck in somewhere. But she did think it'd be fun when he managed to find the thing, and saw what it were. Or at least, she would find it amusing, and so would she think, might his sister. She seemed the sort who could enjoy a little prank on her brothers behalf.

It would be around twenty more minutes they could talk and collect themselves, before a knock would be at the door, and it would open to reveal Ambassador Raven. Likely been busy since he had met them in Equestria, but now he were sent to here, to see to the group. Or rather, to bring forth a message, as it were.

"My apologies for barging in. I hope I am not disrupting something?

Her majesty would like to inform you, that the theater is prepared, and the performers eagerly awaits a chance to show you their meddle. Simply let me know when you are ready, and I shall guide you there myself. Her majesty insisted."

The last part were added before the prince could say he would handle it himself. His mother knew him well.

[Catpone Cerberus 23,228]

@Blitz Boom@StrawberryMilk Simp
While the others were focused on the story, Sear kept her eyes open as was her nature. and thus she saw Shark do her thing, she shared the server's confusion, but couldn't help but be amused by it, it was rather endearing. Things like this were why she liked to travel, while stories of course were interesting, it was creatures like Shark that she looked for the most, the little sources of non-harmful chaos in this boring world of harmony, the tiny cracks in the ordinary. 

Chega was of course horrified by the story, and it took all self-control from her to not scoop up both of the siblings into a hug and tell them it would be aright, Sheska would have to do for now, she had already been told some things about their life, but hearing the full story hurt, both as a kobold, and as their close friend, be it different versions of them.

"Horribleness is matter of perspective, what to you is horrible, to us was the norm. Explosions are scary only the first few times." Trox wasn't sure if his allegory would be understood right, but then again, it was also true literally. Of course they acknowledged that their world wasn't great, they had been quite clear about that in fact, but to them, it also wasn't as horrible as it was to everyone else here, because they hadn't known anything else.

The siblings didn't comment on the 'writers' part of what Light said, because like they had said when it had been the topic of discussion, it didn't matter to them if such thing existed or not, as all such were unworthy of their attention. 

"Like we said earlier, if the guard is to be believed, our world is collapsing, and like we also said, good riddance, though now you all probably understand better why we don't feel heartbroken over it."

The kobolds did listen to Light's story, but they would have been lying if they said they fully understood it.
Sheska was the one to comment on that, still being hugged by Chega "So did I understand this right, there used to be one you, from which you and other worlds' versions of you split somehow, the original became god, and several of you formed a group?" "I remember you also saying something about evil version of you, so is that related to the group of yous somehow?" only days ago Sheska and Trox would have called Light out as talking nonsense, but having seen quite undeniable evidence of other worlds, it wasn't that ridiculous anymore.

-----------------------------------------
"Acid spray is possible" Ruby stated nonchalantly "I haven't really dealt with the local fish, so I don't know. Actually." she said something to Charir, the tone of voice implying a question, and Charir shook his head "Charir hasn't tasted them either." "My guess would be that they aren't as tough as some other creatures, since being in the water, they are relatively safe from lot of things, but the water is quite toxic compared to what you have here, so they may taste bit bitter." "I'd suggest eating only the meat if you have weak stomach." 

"You are also not far off with your feeling, because there is in fact more creatures and even plants that are like that, that being all of them." "The Homelands are hostile in every way, it's a miracle there is life in the first place." "It is highly volcanic place, so fire and ash are constant there, the air is toxic, and I'm pretty sure the ground itself is toxic in some way too." "All this has lead to very unique evolution of life." "The plants have evolved to withstand the heat and to make use of the toxins that come with everything, making it so that insects and animals that eat those plants, need to be not only able to handle the heat and toxic air, but also be able to use those plants for nutrient, and this goes all the way up to us, and then back down to scavengers and organism that deal with the bodies." "And that's not taking in consideration what my kind's actions may have done, the creatures driven to extinction long before I, or even my mother, ever hatched; I'm not expert on those matters, but I'm sure that it has affected things too." "There could have existed in the past something that made things less toxic."  

 

 

[StrawberryMilk Simp 12,153]

1 hour ago, Catpone Cerberus said:

Like we said earlier, if the guard is to be believed, our world is collapsing, and like we also said, good riddance, though now you all probably understand better why we don't feel heartbroken over it."

The kobolds did listen to Light's story, but they would have been lying if they said they fully understood it.
Sheska was the one to comment on that, still being hugged by Chega "So did I understand this right, there used to be one you, from which you and other worlds' versions of you split somehow, the original became god, and several of you formed a group?" "I remember you also saying something about evil version of you, so is that related to the group of yous somehow?" only days ago Sheska and Trox would have called Light out as talking nonsense, but having seen quite undeniable evidence of other worlds, it wasn't that ridiculous anymore.

" hmmmm im not sure if he really is the first and original. But one thing is for sure. He became god in a way. And knowing your world is collapsing the order of darkness is surely to be there doing the clean up. Probably helping pulling the strings of the destruction of that world. And for that sorry."

" for the evil version well yeah. The only reason a White Light is present on someones world, is to either correct and straightened the threads of faith and be lead to the original story line. Or it would be destroyed. And the original story line has no kobolts and kitsunes."

He would be sad and look away.

" but!... the world's writer here seems to be quite strong. there was supposed to be a team of 5 from failsafe to infiltrate this world. Only me and Khali are the ones who were able to infiltrate. Which i give my thanks. Now that i pledge my loyalty here, i am now a traitor." He looks at Shark and his worries vanished.

"And I don't mind."

@Catpone Cerberus @Blitz Boom

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-22 at 2:42 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Perhaps they could learn from one another then. Zhi'Dhala Kozue is still young. Filled with determination and are wise in his own way, but he is not tempered with age, and sometimes, that means learning from errors. I think you'd find him amicable to the idea of meeting with your own young elder at some point, if it were. You can make a request through our elders to set up a meeting at some point in the future, and then see when it suits them. I'm certain Elder Ghilan have his responsibilities to his people as well, and must allocate his time wisely."

“I will keep this in mind. Elder Ghilan is always looking out for opportunities to learn, and having shared or similar experiences with another young elder would be great for him.”

Lin was unsure about what Sen was talking about here, though the idea that their elder wasn’t quite “elderly” and was on the lookout for others outside their village was odd. She knew elders kept to themselves unless they were to meet up with other elders or attend to major issues within the village. Just how much was she missing in her memories? She knew something didn’t add up, but she couldn’t think about it lest the pain return with greater intensity. 

For now, she can endure and manage her headaches, but it seemed like whatever was affecting her was intent on keeping her in a state of forgetfulness, enforcing recollections of certain memories over others, and deviating from that would invoke a metaphorical whip or vice depending on what happens. It almost felt like something or someone was “linked” to her mind; one would shudder to think what else could happen if she continued to attempt to remember things as they truly are. The walk to the building was fairly uneventful, but that was on account of having to focus more on her pain over the kitsune watching her. The occasional comment from Sen, especially remarks on nature and aesthetics was rather unexpected of him, but that was enough to forget her own predicament. 

On 2023-09-22 at 2:42 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"And here I thought you would be unappreciative, towards the majesty of nature. Your kind is different than several others tend to be.

As for the construction, it were lead by one of our elders, when he were still a young kitsune. Working tirelessly around the year to settle stone and the right inscriptions, he approached the spirits during our day of remembrance, asking them humbly of their blessings, upon the materials that would in time, become the new elder hall. Then worked tirelessly with the blessed materials for a year, that they might see the fruits of his labor when they returned once more.

It were a big project, but he had good helpers, and the blessing given to him by no less than Ha-Nuhra Ine herself, filled him with determination, to see it done before they'd return, yet with no stone set poorly. And lo and behold, it flourish, in perfect harmony with nature. Even now, unseen by the uninitiated, spirits frolic in the leaves, and dance down the stream. A great work, that the elders of the time, say they had never seen alike.

Elder Garo says he finds peace in sitting in the halls of his work, though I feel it have more to do with the beanbag chairs. He have become infatuated with those things."

"I have tried sitting in one of those. I kept falling off." 

“The longma believe in nature being a ‘provider’ of our needs, and so we value utmost respect to the natural, only taking what is needed and ensuring the rest can thrive without our intervention. I guess the most impressive things we have are homes built into treetops, but those are only for new families, which are given up to their young when the current owners grow old. Our own elders’ halls are less impressive; they’re simple huts, large enough to hold sessions for settling disputes.”

Sen turned to Omen upon hearing her remark. Though he had his share of oddities, this one might be interesting to see. “Maybe I could see one of those beanbag chairs you’re talking about. It’ll be interesting to learn what they are like.”

On 2023-09-22 at 2:42 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Welcome to the reception, as one could call it. The elders themselves, tend to spend most of their time in this building, further in, but they didn't want others to simply stand in a long line on the bridge, so they use the first room here for others to meet up, and await their time to potentially meet with the elders. Others come here to socialize, and as for Hihi Fei over there, she's here to see Elder Mohri. Her great grandmother. The elder cannot show favor to some over others, even if they are family, but if there are none here to see her, she tends to be more than happy to offer some time to her descendant. As you can see, it gets her quite excited.

If you would wait here a moment, I will make  a request, and see if Elder Zhao is approachable today."

She would wander over to a line, and get ready to approach what seemed to be a blue flame, where others would put small scribbled notes into.

"Heh, good luck getting Zhao to answer."

The voice would come from behind them, and if they looked, they'd see a young kitsune. Looked like a teenager, smiling towards them with a curious glimmer in his eyes. He wore a light-blue kimono, with sea-weed colored engravings of a great serpent, that stood out among the usually darker ones with lighter patterns on, that they had otherwise passed.

"Why would we need luck?"

"It's hard to explain. How about I just show you? That line could take hours to have answered as things are right now, and your friend here seems like she's not doing too good. Sounds to me like you'd want to go up to Zhao faster. I know a shortcut, but we'll have to work fast.

Name's Choha by the way."

Sen and Lin nodded in agreement, then bowed toward Nurse Lao who would go on ahead to put in a request to see their elder. Lin had trouble with the gesture, but she still insisted on doing so out of respect, as the good head nurse was accommodating to them. The two would sit down and invite Omen to join them, though they wouldn’t obstruct her if she would prefer to wander around and explore. For Sen, ensuring his sister’s comfort and safety right now was his priority, and he’d stay put to see it through.

However, it would appear Omen would meet another kitsune, one who provided a rather tempting offer to see Elder Zhao faster. Knowing Lin was in pain, she would need to see someone urgently, but there was a gnawing at the back of Sen’s mind that would try to convince him to stay and wait for Nurse Lao. 

“Lin? How are you doing now? Is the pain unbearable?”

“I’ll… manage. Do what you think… is best.”

Sen only seemed half-convinced that he knew what was best for the situation. Lin could handle her pain, but it could take a turn for the worse if she wasn’t distracted. It was tempting to take up Choha on the offer, but after already taking too many poorly-thought actions recently, the longma felt he was being reckless and ending up with less-than-favorable outcomes. Then again, he was in a position to make another risky choice… No. This time, he had to be sensible. He turned to the kitsune in the light blue kimono and gave his answer.

“Thank you for your suggestion, Choha, but we will pass. Out of respect for Nurse Lao’s efforts and for Elder Zhao, I would rather not overstep our bounds and wait. The consequences will be mine to bear. If you do not mind me asking, why extend an offer of help to us?” 

[Blitz Boom 4,227]

@EQ_Theta

16 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“The longma believe in nature being a ‘provider’ of our needs, and so we value utmost respect to the natural, only taking what is needed and ensuring the rest can thrive without our intervention. I guess the most impressive things we have are homes built into treetops, but those are only for new families, which are given up to their young when the current owners grow old. Our own elders’ halls are less impressive; they’re simple huts, large enough to hold sessions for settling disputes.”

Sen turned to Omen upon hearing her remark. Though he had his share of oddities, this one might be interesting to see. “Maybe I could see one of those beanbag chairs you’re talking about. It’ll be interesting to learn what they are like.”

"Our beliefs is that all around us, are spirits big and small. From natural spirits to our own ancestors, that haven't moved on yet. Nature is as much a home for them, as it is us, so we make sure to respect it, and appreciate the bounty it provides. We cut down wood for our houses, or to warm ourselves in winter. Harvest plants and animal alike, but that is part of nature's bounty. Offerings that we are given, and are supposed to value. But it is finite, so we do not appreciate waste, or overindulgence. And we certainly do not appreciate the ways of the Neighbponese ponies, who take and take with impunity, but rarely if ever, give something back. Nor believe anything but their concrete towns are worth living in. Those few who differs, and gives back, we tend to lend a paw at times. They earned it.

Still, there is more to it. Including in where we build our towns, but that is not for me to share. It could help others find us, and we do not want that. The Neighponese are not to be trusted, and there's too many poachers, that wants to get hold of our little ones."

A growl escaped her, and her eyes narrowed further as she thought about poachers. The kitsune were generally jovial and seemingly carefree, as they played around in the wondrous world they were given to live in, but they were still predators, and had their vicious side. One which especially came out, towards those who'd dare to harm their young. And a teacher as her, that saw the kits on a daily basis? If she met a poacher, they wouldn't be seen again. She could guarantee that. As could many kitsune, which made poaching a very risky business. Especially for those trying to catch kitsune.

"We shroud our homes, that others might stay out, lest we want them here. How your group managed to slip through, is beyond me, but it sounds like it is due to her. It would fit that a creature made by Discord, would be one to just pop in out of nowhere."

she'd point towards Omen as she said that.

"I remembered there being a healing house here, long ago. I thought it might still be there."

"Must've been before our time. Regardless, I should put in the request. There will be time to speak later, if it is. If you get through, you will see what a beanbag chair is soon enough. Elder Garo likes to keep several around the premise."

17 hours ago, EQ_Theta said:

“Lin? How are you doing now? Is the pain unbearable?”

“I’ll… manage. Do what you think… is best.”

Sen only seemed half-convinced that he knew what was best for the situation. Lin could handle her pain, but it could take a turn for the worse if she wasn’t distracted. It was tempting to take up Choha on the offer, but after already taking too many poorly-thought actions recently, the longma felt he was being reckless and ending up with less-than-favorable outcomes. Then again, he was in a position to make another risky choice… No. This time, he had to be sensible. He turned to the kitsune in the light blue kimono and gave his answer.

“Thank you for your suggestion, Choha, but we will pass. Out of respect for Nurse Lao’s efforts and for Elder Zhao, I would rather not overstep our bounds and wait. The consequences will be mine to bear. If you do not mind me asking, why extend an offer of help to us?” 

The kitsune would chuckle as they gave him their response, the mischievous grin not leaving his face. Though that were somewhat natural for kitsune, due to their facial form. They looked like the tricksters they were, yet this one seemed to be having that going a little more than several others they could see around them.

"Partially for my own amusement. Partially to test your character."

A low laughter would escape Choha. Or at least, it sounded like it. Kitsune laughed like foxes, so it was a very... Notable sound. Sounded like one were dying from laughter more or less, albeit this were still closer to a chuckle. So more akin to finding something really funny, and failing at keeping all of it in.

Waiting here then, Choha would stay, and wait for Nurse Lao to return. Wouldn't be that long. About three minutes, as she looked over, and then paused, before stepping out of the line and approaching them.

"This is unexpected."

"Hello, Hunu. Doing well?"

"Quite so. What can I help you with today?"

"You can be at ease, Hunu. I have finished my little play. Sadly before I wished to. It would have been fun to drag these around a little."

"I understand, Elder Gao."

While she would bow before him, the form, of the kitsune would blow off like it were fog, dissipated by a side wind. When it were done, they would see the same kitsune, yet a good deal older. It wasn't seen as much on the kitsune, as grey hair to them, might simply mean their fur were normally grey, and they didn't bald. But you could see it on their face, where there were some wrinkles around the eyes, as well as just the look in the eyes, which seemed a good deal more sagely. Especially for the elders who lead them, of which this were one, it turned out. The voice would also give it away, as there were a gruffness to it, that tended to come with age.

"I had hoped to drag you along for a few hours, but you instead chose to remain respectful, and patient. It speaks well of you, young ones. As well as you for staying with them, Omen."

He couldn't well call her young, as she predated their entire species attainting higher sentience, so he would have to address her individually, in the same calm, soothing voice.

"But I believe it is time for proper introductions. I am Elder Choha Gao. Welcome to our village."

He'd nod towards them, as a sign of respect, and hospitality.

"Why did you try and look different?"

"I heard someone speak about beanbag chairs, and came closer to listen. I were tempted to test you myself then, to see what kind of outsiders you would turn out to be. Pleasantly respectful ones, it turned out. A good sign of your character.

And fret not. Elder Zhao does have time, though she won't answer the message for a time. She is lost in her hobby, but she would understand a need for her aid, I am certain. And it seems you have quite the situation on your mind, don't you?"

He'd lift a paw, a green mist following it, as he ran it in the air, slowly passing by Lin's face, seen from his angle.

"Yes, your mind isn't entirely your own, is it? Dreadful business. You must be quite confused at times, hm?"

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus @StrawberryMilk Simp

The twins just looked at one another, as Light went off about himself again. Granted he were a bit odd, but... Come on, that was a tall tale, if ever they heard one. He'd essentially be a god, living in many realities, and split into countless forms. That were rather hard to believe in for them. But his belief didn't hurt anyone, so really, they had no right to try and convince him otherwise. Let him believe what he wished to, and hide the reality somewhere within the tales he told. If that's what he wanted, then they wouldn't try to take that from him.

Shark meanwhile just didn't really care, because this were far too high brow for her to try and understand. So she just nomed down her cracker, and looked around, seeing what the other patrons of the inn were doing. Nothing special it appeared, but it were still fun for her to watch them, and trying to understand the everyday things they did. Though she didn't understand those who drank alcohol. Bad thing, shouldn't be drunk. But maybe it were li8ke her mate, and they were just better at handling it than her? Might be a pony thing, that she just wasn't made for, but that were fine. She could eat meat, and they apparently didn't, so they could nom on different things.

She'd insert something after Trox and Sheska added their part though.

"You say a lot of funny words."

She'd giggle and go back to noming on her scavenged biscuit. It were pretty tasty honestly.

Someone else would interject, but they hadn't heard what were said, and were mostly there by presence, rather than words right now.

Officer Stargazer had just stepped in the door, and laid his eyes upon the memorable group. He'd go over near, but he wouldn't say anything before being addressed. It were rude to interfere after all. And it allowed him to sit down on a chair and breathe a bit for a change. He really hadn't gotten enough sleep, since transferring here. Too much kept happening, so a moments respite, however brief, were most welcome.

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

 

@Catpone Cerberus

"Hostile to live in, all the way down to the plants. Definitely a rougher place to live in. Not a place I could settle down I'd think. I don't mind a bit of a rough area here and there, but when even the fish and plants are signaling to back off, it just gets too hostile for my taste.

And speaking of taste, I'm eating before we go there. If there's even a chance your fish are as bad as you warn they could be, I don't want them anywhere near my mouth. I'd probably vomit my guts out, or break my teeth."

So the locals wanted to kill you, the prey animals were hostile, and the small ones were potentially poisonous, as well as hard to eat. And the plants were trash too. 0/10, wouldn't recommend as a vacation spot.

"But that's just what happens, when the apex predators are so far above. Only the toughest survive to make the next generation, and evolving some combat-focused traits sure helps. Not enough to win, but y'know, give 'em time, and who knows what might happen?

*Yawn* Can we get out, and be on our way? It's starting to get stuffy in here. I'm build for blue skies, and roaring waves. And I wanna see what happens when you electrocute a zombie."

She liked their talks, but they could also do those while they were on the move, and it didn't sound like they'd get much further with this. The local wildlife were a hazard, and she should basically not swim, fly, breathe, or anything. Seriously, that place sounded bad, and she had seen some bad places in her life. Including those where breathing the air, would literally kill you. But at least it were normally just one or two really bad things. Their homeland sounded like a collection of all the worst stuff imaginable, just tossed into one big pile.

It were definitely not gonna be a fun trip, but it were one they had to make eventually. She weren't just gonna let Ruby and Charir go there alone at least. They were close to her, and dragon lord by damned, she were not gonna let them toss themselves into that sort of situation on their own.

[EQ_Theta 383]

@Blitz Boom

On 2023-09-25 at 4:09 AM, Blitz Boom said:

@EQ_Theta

"Our beliefs is that all around us, are spirits big and small. From natural spirits to our own ancestors, that haven't moved on yet. Nature is as much a home for them, as it is us, so we make sure to respect it, and appreciate the bounty it provides. We cut down wood for our houses, or to warm ourselves in winter. Harvest plants and animal alike, but that is part of nature's bounty. Offerings that we are given, and are supposed to value. But it is finite, so we do not appreciate waste, or overindulgence. And we certainly do not appreciate the ways of the Neighbponese ponies, who take and take with impunity, but rarely if ever, give something back. Nor believe anything but their concrete towns are worth living in. Those few who differs, and gives back, we tend to lend a paw at times. They earned it.

Still, there is more to it. Including in where we build our towns, but that is not for me to share. It could help others find us, and we do not want that. The Neighponese are not to be trusted, and there's too many poachers, that wants to get hold of our little ones."

A growl escaped her, and her eyes narrowed further as she thought about poachers. The kitsune were generally jovial and seemingly carefree, as they played around in the wondrous world they were given to live in, but they were still predators, and had their vicious side. One which especially came out, towards those who'd dare to harm their young. And a teacher as her, that saw the kits on a daily basis? If she met a poacher, they wouldn't be seen again. She could guarantee that. As could many kitsune, which made poaching a very risky business. Especially for those trying to catch kitsune.

"We shroud our homes, that others might stay out, lest we want them here. How your group managed to slip through, is beyond me, but it sounds like it is due to her. It would fit that a creature made by Discord, would be one to just pop in out of nowhere."

“The longma and the kitsune are much alike, it seems. Maybe we could meet again in the future, but knowing what you said, it may take time. Maybe it won’t happen in the future. The longma disdain outsiders because of our unfortunate history and experiences of being duped and lied to. Isolation and being difficult to find is something our kind have in common, and I say that, even after knowing the irony of me being here and us talking.”

“Do not worry though. I will not speak of this place to others lest they try to find you or the kitsune. It’s the least I can do in return for your help.”

There was a side to Sen that had hoped the longma’s hostility to outsiders could be curbed, though only he and Lin have experience in interacting with the world outside the forest. Xin could also count, as he once ventured out to bring Sen home. Likewise, Ghilan saw the value in wanting to expand horizons and learn from those with different experiences. The more he thought about this matter, the more he had to worry about once it came to speaking with the elders. However, he’d look fondly at this experience as an example; he’d just be more delicate about raising this part during their discussions.

On 2023-09-25 at 4:09 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I had hoped to drag you along for a few hours, but you instead chose to remain respectful, and patient. It speaks well of you, young ones. As well as you for staying with them, Omen."

He couldn't well call her young, as she predated their entire species attainting higher sentience, so he would have to address her individually, in the same calm, soothing voice.

"But I believe it is time for proper introductions. I am Elder Choha Gao. Welcome to our village."

He'd nod towards them, as a sign of respect, and hospitality.

"Why did you try and look different?"

"I heard someone speak about beanbag chairs, and came closer to listen. I were tempted to test you myself then, to see what kind of outsiders you would turn out to be. Pleasantly respectful ones, it turned out. A good sign of your character.

The siblings were surprised to see this to be some kind of test, and Sen was glad to have passed, in a manner of speaking. He certainly felt good about having made the right choice. However, the kitsune named Choha would reveal himself to be an elder, one who observed them previously. At once, Sen bowed to Elder Gao, proceeding to provide some introductions.

“The kitsune’s hospitality and your greetings honor us, Elder Gao. My name is Sen, and my sister, Lin,… she has been afflicted with something that I don’t know. It forces her to remember things a certain way lest she is hurt by it. Something took over her, making her some kind of mouthpiece for a warning.”

“Wh… what? No, that couldn’t have happened. Did it? 

Lin observed the green mist floating in front of her, but her mind began to wander into the recesses of her memories. What Elder Gao said was true, that she was confused at times, yet Sen’s narration of events got her to try and remember. Something took over her? Made her issue a warning? Those were surreal, but some parts of those memories were present, even when they shouldn’t. The more she tried to tap into those thoughts, the more her pain became apparent. As she said earlier, she’d endure, but even Lin couldn’t tell how long she could manage. For now, she would stay put and try to keep the pain at bay.

“No, none of this should be real. What’s happened to me? Why me?”

Lin looked to Elder Gao first, then to her brother and Omen with a worried look. As far as her memories could muster, she lived an ordinary life with the other longma, but these recent events, new revelations that are shaking her grip on what is real, only seem to add more confusion with no easy answers. Though signs of the old Lin were present whenever she tried to endure the pain, even Sen couldn’t find the words to help calm Lin down. Right now, they had to put their faith in the kitsune to hopefully find a cure.

”I don’t know if you can say, but... if my mind isn’t mine, what could have done this? Do the Kitsune know of the kind of power that can do such a thing, Elder Gao?“