open [RP] The Blackwater Quarry

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

On 5/22/2019 at 12:12 AM, Randimaxis said:

"Fuses are in the yellow bin on the red-striped table, next to the safety matches.  And with what I saw out there, I'm sure Dax'll like whatever you have in store for him.  He's really nice, and he's always been a good kid.  You, uh..." she grinned, "seem pretty taken with him.  You looking to be his new best friend, or..?"

Blitz rose her head from a drawer she had been looking in when the fuses were revealed to have been on the table the entire time. Whatever had been in said drawer, seemed to have left an impression on her though, as she had a few coal smudges on her face, and a graphite pen stuck in her mane.

It were nothing she bit notice in though, and instead jumped up to the edge of the table, and once she could see the box with fuses, tried to pat at it to see if she could get reach it without using magic. She got close, yet after fifteen seconds or so of trying to reach and not getting it, she gave up and just used her magic to slide the box over to her. The look on her face as they got closer and closer were akin to Ziggy whenever somepony had the unfortunate idea of bringing doughnuts into the cafeteria and letting her know about it. Excited, yet predatory, and had a 80% chance to end up with others looking back at this moment as the point where things started to go crazy.

"Yey, fuses!"

When it got within catching range, she'd claw it to her, and start rummaging through it with her muzzle until she found one in the right size and yanked it out, then just let the rest of the box sit where it were whilst she wandered back to her stuff and screwed the fuse in there. Fit like a glove, and soon as this were lit, things were going to get pretty. And Dax better see it this time! Otherwise, she'd have to go back and make more, and this were a paaaaain to get done once Tree Hugger had found out about one of the things the filly used for this. Why that mare got so uppity about some weird plants were confusing to her. Especially after one tried to eat the mare's head.

"All done. Now Dax and Dax-Dad can be happy! Today's gonna be fun! Ehehehe.

And I'm going to be Dax's bestest friend in the entire world! He said the other pony who were his friend left, but I'm here, and I saw him first, when he said he had no friends. So he's gonna see this, get very very happy, and then I'll be the bestest friend instead of that other pony. Then when that pony comes around and thinks he's gonna be the bestest one again, I'll put itching powder in his shoes."

Blitz turned around and rummaged through her tail, until she pulled out a small, light, rough looking pouch from it, that she held in her over-sized grin.

"Ponyville have some meanie bullies, so whenever I go outside, I sneak these with me, and then if they go mean, I sprinkle it on their tails. They get reeeeal mad about that, but their fault for being naughty fillies."

She put it back where she had taken it from, and looked up at Silver with big eyes, whilst jumping in place over and over.

"Can we go see Dax and Dax-Dad now, huh? Can we? Can we? Can we?"

It had gotten completely over her head that Silver had implied some sort of interest in Dax that were more in the smoochies kind of way. Not something she thought off often either really. There weren't really any foals who got into the forest where she lived all that often, and the few times it did happen, the talk got on fireworks quickly, or it were the CMC, whom generally also came for that kind of stuff, and whenever she were alone, she just thought of inventions. Not much colt thinking in her mind so far.

Edited May 30, 2019 by Blitz Boom

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 5/21/2019 at 3:12 PM, Randimaxis said:

[Hi there!  My name is Taps, and I'm the mailmare here.  I noticed you have a wagon - did you bring any mail from the local office, or is this your personal carriage?]

The mare cleared her throat, taking in several deep breaths before her composure returned.

"Oh, no, this is our home, actually.  We didn't bring any mail."  She looked over to Dahlia, who was beginning to recover from the mind meld.  "We don't receive mail often, we don't exactly have anypony who keeps in contact...anymore."  Her face goes blank for a moment after adding that last word.  It didn't hurt any more after the first few years, though the intrusive thoughts still held power and they weren't going away.

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

On 5/21/2019 at 3:12 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Hmmp.  Master Key, I can't say I do recognize them.  To be perfectly honest, I've seen the painting here before... but I suppose I merely gleaned by it; I don't frequent the garage, and so I haven't a clue as to whom they may be.  The only ones I know of that spend time in here would be Silver Studs the handimare, and Chuck List the head forepony for the quarry; perhaps one of them know?  Otherwise, aside from Master Dax slipping in here on occasion to be 'alone', I've seen no others in here."

That certainly piqued a few questions in Low's mind.  It was a mystery, and he liked mysteries.  His eyes ran over the painting, first looking at the brush strokes, then branching out and looking at the ponies, proper.  Were there any similarities between them and the traits he had observed with the Blackwaters?  It was likely all of them were siblings, judging by how comfortable they were with each other.  If not, lovers?  An interesting thought, though unlikely.  Good friends?  Also very likely, but that still did not explain what they were doing up on this wall.  The common ponies working here would not pursue a painting in this style and class, it would be too expensive and simply...didn't fit. 

Why would a common pony commission this?  It simply didn't happen, only aristocrats cared about their heritage.  They had to belong to some family of import.  A side branch, perhaps?  He had not done any research into the pedigree of the Blackwaters, so he was unsure of any scions that may exist.

On 5/21/2019 at 3:12 PM, Randimaxis said:

"I would be happy to escort you to either of them, should you be curious enough to seek answers... oh, and if you're still curious about Benny, then Mister List is the only pony I have ever witnessed driving the thing; for a guest, he might be enticed into a demonstration?  Unless, of course, you're ready to head back to your quarters?  Or Madam Carnelian's, to check in?"

Low was dragged from his inner thoughts quite suddenly, his body going rigid as he turned to Beck.  "Hm?  What?  Oh, yes, I would appreciate it if you could escort me to either of them.  I would not be able to sleep tonight if I do not figure this out."  He offered a meek smile, returning his gaze to the painting.  "I believe Lady Carnelian can wait for the moment.  She requires her privacy as much as I do."  And I would much prefer it if I could avoid her while my humiliation is still fresh in both of our minds.

On 5/21/2019 at 3:12 PM, Randimaxis said:

"In nothing but curiosity and admiration, would perhaps Master Key care to indulge a humble question from myself?  Madam Carnelian seems so very... astute and... calculating; if you were to simply pass along an idea of her personage and what being in her presence is like, what is it that you could enlighten me with about your patron?"

The unicorn thought for a while, lost in his own thoughts before he answered.  "Lady Carnelian is hard to describe.  I am unsure whether it is her charisma, wisdom, or intelligence that strikes me the most.  I am not the best at socializing and, well, I admit, my self-esteem leaves a lot to be desired (she tells me this often), and the first time we met at a ball, I was only able to muster monosyllabic replies and answers.

"Any other mare would have given up in frustration at how poor a conversation partner I was.  Instead, she showed an amazing level of patience.  She took the reins of the conversation and led me about, encouraging me, complimenting me when I gave more information, cracking jokes, and all the while providing me with a beautiful smile and the most entrancing gaze I had yet witnessed.  It may have been the wine, but over time, I began to feel warmer, more comfortable.  I began to smile, and she began to break down more barriers.  The night ended when she asked me to dance.  I-I...it was a pleasant experience that...that I would..."

Low's eyes went wide as he recognized just how much information he had given.  He would have blushed from embarrassment if his cheeks weren't already flushed, his skin hot to the touch.  "...do again.  A-Anyway, in a much more direct fashion, if you prefer that, I would say that Lady Carnelian's talent is her ability to bring out the best in ponies, to truly make them shine like the diamond on her flank."

He turned his face away, biting his lip.  Carnelian was right, he had a long way to go if he would ever be able to function in a political environment as well as herself.  He just wasn't good at stowing his emotions, they just happened.  It wasn't his fault if he appreciated the fine details of what made himself tick, right?  Beck wouldn't judge him, would he?

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 5/21/2019 at 7:37 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"I... It's good to see you again... Dax." 

The smile he wore jumped up a notch.

"A-and you as well!  I just can't believe it - you're actually, physically HERE... I never thought you'd be able to-..."

He glanced over at Vylia, whose eyebrow lifted in response before he turned back to face her.

"... y'know... g-get your travel papers in order, what with your Mother keeping you so busy.  But I guess you managed after all!  I'm SO glad!"

He turned to his mother, who wore a knowing and happy grin.  "Mother, did you have anything to do with this?"

The Blackwater matriarch simply sat back, sighed and regarded her son smugly.  "Mystic is here to train under my tutelage, to become a better accountant.  She will be staying here in the manor in one of our best suites, and she'll have some time on her hooves after she's done learning for the day."

With each thing on the list mentioned, Dax's smile seemed to get bigger and bigger.

"I expect you to entertain her as befitting a Blackwater; it is now your duty to see to Miss Mystic Glow's needs, while maintaining your utmost best behavior.  Do you understand?"

Dax gave the zebra a questioning look when her name was mentioned, but he didn't give her away (at least, she was pretty sure he hadn't).  He just turned and spoke to his mother.

"Mother, I would find it an honor to be this lady's escort."  The blush he wore was highly obvious, but he still stood there proudly.  "May we go, please?  I would love to show off the quarry!"

Vylia gave another tinkling laugh, then waved a hoof at the doors.  "As you wish."

Daxter Blackwater knew every inch of the Blackwater Quarry like it was his own hoof; he'd explored every place he could squeeze into, seen every corner he could spy on, and discovered most of the best-hidden secrets the quarry had to offer.  And now, he was going to be able to share each and every one of them with Her. 

The beautiful Her.  The exquisite Her.  The incredible Her.

He turned to face Mystic and extended an akimbo forehoof to her.  "Shall we, madam?"

As soon as they were out of the parlour, Dax giggled nervously, giddy with excitement.

"Oracle!  I'm SO glad you're here!"  He gave her a hug that made her spine pop.  "Ohhhhhh, I've got SO MUCH to show you!  I mean, I told you about a lot of it - but now, you get to SEE it!  Oh, this is gonna be awesome!"

He began to lead her towards the front of the manor.  "Okay, if you remember the things I told you about, what do you want to see first!?"

 

 

On 5/30/2019 at 2:33 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Can we go see Dax and Dax-Dad now, huh? Can we? Can we? Can we?"

Silver laughed brightly.  "You sure are intent to show off, aren't you?  Well... that's good, because I can't wait to see it either!"

The handimare was indeed quite eager to see what Blitz had created; she hoped it would be exactly what Mister Blackwater wanted to see, and was hoping beyond hope that she'd be offered a job working here - that would mean they could spend a LOT of time together, and Silver wanted that quite a lot, now.  

She'd fallen for Blitz's charm, and was now firmly on Team Blitz Boom.

"Sure - we'll have to head to the manor, and we can see what and who we come across.  Maybe we'll even meet up with somepony we're looking for, eh?"

She helped gather what things needed gathering, then placed the satchel full of 'splosions on her back.  With no further delay, they set out for the Blackwater Manor, looking for either of the Blackwater males.  Silver had a feeling that, with what the little dynamo had cooked up, Mister Luther would be so duly impressed that he might hire her immediately!

"Blitz, this is great!  I'm so stoked to see how they'll react!  I mean, not like a fireplace stoked, but more like enthusiastically excited stoked!  If it's high enough quality, you & I will be working together here - EVERY SINGLE DAY!  How's THAT strike you?"

 

 

On 6/9/2019 at 6:27 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Oh, no, this is our home, actually.  We didn't bring any mail.  We don't receive mail often, we don't exactly have anypony who keeps in contact...anymore."

Taps was no fool - she saw the hurt there, and gave a worried look as she wrote upon her pad again, showing it off once she was done.

[I'm sorry for bringing up bad thoughts.  I kinda know loneliness, too - and I apologize for assuming you had mail for the quarry.]

She gave Ophelia a comforting gaze, then wrote again on the small tablet of paper.  

[This is your home?  It must be fun to be out on the road so much, right?  And I absolutely LOVELOVELOVE your dress - it's exquisite!]

She blushed sheepishly, then wrote some more on the same page.

[How do you make enough money for supplies?  I'm sure a life on the road still racks up expenses, right?  Where does your money come from?]

 

 

On 6/9/2019 at 6:27 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Hm?  What?  Oh, yes, I would appreciate it if you could escort me to either of them.  I would not be able to sleep tonight if I do not figure this out.  I believe Lady Carnelian can wait for the moment.  She requires her privacy as much as I do." 

Beck bowed.  "As you wish, Master Key."

As he led Key along towards the quarry proper, he listened to the young stallion talk about his erstwhile patron.  Even as Key made his realizations as to the amount he'd shared, Beck simply smiled warmly.

"I cannot tell you how good that is to hear, Master Key - the quarry is always grateful for kind souls, and to hear she has such kindness and patience with you?  Well, it truly befits her noble bearing, that is most certain.  And, if I may say so, some of that charm has most assuredly found its' way into yourself."

On 6/9/2019 at 6:27 PM, Hazard Time said:

"...do again.  A-Anyway, in a much more direct fashion, if you prefer that, I would say that Lady Carnelian's talent is her ability to bring out the best in ponies, to truly make them shine like the diamond on her flank."

Beck nodded.  "If she is here at the request of Lady Vylia, then it is doubtless that your patron is here at the quarry to help Madam Vylia improve her family name's standing.  Hopefully, you will see for yourself that they may be... unusual and unique... but they are FAR from the reputations the name has built up over the years.  I do hope that Miss Carnelian's methods will work the wonders that you claim.  My sincerest thank you for indulging a curious butler."

It wasn't long before they were back in the quarry, and heading towards the large mine opening at the top of the hill.  "I do believe we should meet with Chuck List; if anypony can fill in any details, 'twould be him, Master Key."

And there, at the mine's entrance, was a rough-and-tumble-looking grey stallion with a black mane and a clipboard.  As they approached, the sturdy pony turned to face them.

"Beck... whatcha want heah?  I nevah rilly sees ya around heah much; you godda issue 'r' some... thin'..."

He gave Key a grin as he recognized him.  "'Eyyyyy dere... it's yoozagain!  Yer Dax's pally, amirite?  Don' tell me yer heah t'borrow me ta letcha in th' vault again, arrya?"

 

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Randimaxis

Mystic was very impressed with Dax's manners, while his earlier interaction had been more casual he proved once again that he could fit in the high society that her mother had trained her for, clearly his had as well. As such she daintily accepted his hoof to be led out, bags and all, by what she dearly hoped to be her stallion.

12 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

"Oracle!  I'm SO glad you're here!" 

More than her spine popped at the hug, as her eyes nearly jumped out of her head looking around where they were, All the servants they must have, someone HAD to have heard that. 

As Dax was walking away she stopped him and turned him towards her with a serious expression on her face, "H... Ho hold on now," she looked around again to make sure the coast was clear, before deciding to play it safe and whisper it in his ear. "Please tell me you haven't told anyone about me, they can't know about Oracle, they can only know about Mystic." she shuddered as she sat down, a worried expression on her face, "Oh if mother found out that someone here knew who I really was, she'd send me straight to Zebrica for sure." She half muttered it under her breath.

She took a deep breath, and put a small smile back on her face. No, Dax is a smart and caring colt. I'm sure he'd never do something so foalish. He's probably just excited that's all. It definitely won't happen again.

She took another deep breath and stood up again, waving off any attempt by Dax to help her up, "Sorry about that, I'm really excited and nervous too. But before we get too excited," she gestured to her baggage, "Might I see my room first? I'd like to, change, into something a bit more appropriate for exploring the quarry."

Oh I blew it didn't I? That'll scare him straight off.

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

On 6/12/2019 at 1:27 PM, Randimaxis said:

"You sure are intent to show off, aren't you?  Well... that's good, because I can't wait to see it either!"

"Showing off is the best part! Then everypony can see what you've made, and they can be all *Woah* and *Uuuh* and *Cool*! It's pure happy times."

Blitz bounced around near Silver as she spoke and started to mess around with the stuff they were bringing, as happy as if she had just been told they were going to a candy store and she were allowed to fill a bag with whatever she wanted. Although, that were more regular fillies really.

Don't get it wrong, she did like candy and would be thrilled, but for the filly, this glee she felt over them being ready to go and present some of her best put together explosives to her friend and his dad, who seemed to want her to actively made things that exploded, were above that. This were more akin to a situation where she'd get a big box, and could go into a scrapyard and fill it with whatever her heart desired. She had only ever been told of scrapyards by Storm, and they sounded like a magical kingdom of happy and fun. Just piles and piles of discarded metal, wires, springs, etc. etc. It'd just need a bagel shop and it'd be the most perfect place in the world for her.

Perhaps if Dax-Dad liked what she made, she could go take a look at a scrapyard some other day, and find things to make something really special for him? She had been toying with that directional charge at home that had managed to cut a meter in with it's blast. He'd probably like that if she figured out how to stop the other side from overheating, exploding, and leaving a six meter burn mark on the rocks. Hehe, that sounded like a fun future project for sure.

On 6/12/2019 at 1:27 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Sure - we'll have to head to the manor, and we can see what and who we come across.  Maybe we'll even meet up with somepony we're looking for, eh?"

"I hope for Dax. I wanna tell him that his dad want me to make big Kabooms! Then ask him if he wanna see it with us. Oh! Can't forget the fireworks. Veeery important."

Blitz would take this herself as Silver took the dynamite on her back. Blitz still had the satchel she used to get some things in to help her sneak into the quarry, so she just put the display in that, along with a few other fun things for good measure, and hovered it in front of her with a big, gleeful grin on her face.

Man were Dax going to be surprised when he saw them. She'd be weird to recognize without the wings she bet, and then she'd go with the genius Silver, packed with explosives, and going to see his dad? The look on his face were going to be amazing! And after that they'd go find his dad, show him the explosives, and then he'd probably be really impressed and happy, and get a big, happy smile on his sour face. He looked too grumpy in Blitz's mind. needed to smile more. And what made you smile more than explosives? Even more explosives! This were fool proof.

On 6/12/2019 at 1:27 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Blitz, this is great!  I'm so stoked to see how they'll react!  I mean, not like a fireplace stoked, but more like enthusiastically excited stoked!  If it's high enough quality, you & I will be working together here - EVERY SINGLE DAY!  How's THAT strike you?

They'd been a good deal of way, with Blitz walking in the bouncy way her idol Pinkie Pie did (way easier without the heavy wings) when Silver had asked the question, and she stopped to turn to the mare with a somewhat hanging jaw. The bag of funsies wavered in the air too, showing a sort of unfocused grip on them for at least the moment.

"Working here... With you? Every day?

*gasp* YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!"

Her cry of sheer joy were pretty loud in the moment, but she didn't care about that one bit. The prospect of working here with Silver who were just about as amazing as Pinkie, but more logical, sounded like the most fun thing ever! She'd have to go get some stuff from the Everfree first though, and then sometimes in general too. She needed good glitterstuff for her fireworks, and the forest had some really good things, long as you didn't get yourself eaten or poisoned. Perhaps she could take Silver too then when it were and she could see the crater and her hut? *gasp* Yes! Perfect plan!

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 6/12/2019 at 4:27 AM, Randimaxis said:

[This is your home?  It must be fun to be out on the road so much, right?  And I absolutely LOVELOVELOVE your dress - it's exquisite!]

Ophelia looked down at her ensemble, beaming in pride.  She was more than happy to ignore the negative topic.  "Thank you!  It's a guilty pleasure of mine, Dada's, too, kinda.  She likes her flowers more.  The style is just so cute!  I wish I had more room on this thing so I could just have a closet full of them!"

On 6/12/2019 at 4:27 AM, Randimaxis said:

[How do you make enough money for supplies?  I'm sure a life on the road still racks up expenses, right?  Where does your money come from?]

"Speaking of money, my sister and I are travelling psychics.  I'm a passive empath, and my sister can read the tarot.  My talents are fairly limited, so she's the real breadwinner here."

On 6/12/2019 at 4:27 AM, Randimaxis said:

"'Eyyyyy dere... it's yoozagain!  Yer Dax's pally, amirite?  Don' tell me yer heah t'borrow me ta letcha in th' vault again, arrya?"

The unicorn smiled sheepishly at the forepony once more.  "N-No thank you, unless Mister Dax wishes that again.  I was hoping, perhaps, maybe, you could provide me with some information?  I was told you have experience driving 'Benny'?  There is a painting on the wall where it is kept, do you know the ponies involved?"

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 6/12/2019 at 8:36 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"H... Ho hold on now!  Please tell me you haven't told anyone about me; they can't know about Oracle, they can only know about Mystic.  Oh if mother found out that someone here knew who I really was, she'd send me straight to Zebrica for sure."

Dax quickly glanced around as well, but his eyes went wide.

"Oh, no no no no noooooo... I didn't tell ANYPONY about... THAT," he confided in whispers.  "but... well, I kinda did tell Mother that I had an... uhm, 'experience'... with a zebra mare.  I mean, n-not that I said anything untoward or such, I... I j-just..."

The blush he began to put off was adorable.  "... I h-had to tell SOMEone about... a-a-about..."

... my first kiss...

"... about meeting you.  NOT- n-not YOU you, but like, you YOU you... I m-mean..." his bashfulness gave way to embarrassment, then he just gave a short, amused chuckle.  "Your secret's safe... but we might get some... uhm, 'amused' looks.  Heh heh."

 

On 6/12/2019 at 8:36 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Sorry about that, I'm really excited and nervous too. But before we get too excited, might I see my room first?  I'd like to... change... into something a bit more appropriate for exploring the quarry."

Dax nodded vigorously.  "Sure!  We've got SO many rooms here, you could literally sleep in a different room every single day for three months!  There's a TON o' rooms to choose from!  Here, this way!"

The young stallion led her through the Blackwater Manor, absolutely giddy over her as he babbled on and on about the different things in the quarry.

"When Illiad was here, I took him all over the place!  I'd be happy to show you too - give you the Easle-Approved tour, introduce you to some of the staff here, show you the stuff that he thought was nifty... I can even share some stories, if you like?  While Illiad was here, there was a LOT that happened - I'd be glad to share!"

Dax hadn't seen her in a whole year - and now, it seemed as if he wanted to make up for it all TODAY!

They stopped in one of the decorated hallways, and Dax motioned to a door.  "You can stay in this one, if you like..." he leaned forward to whisper to her, "My room's right next door!"

 

 

On 6/20/2019 at 2:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Showing off is the best part! Then everypony can see what you've made, and they can be all *Woah* and *Uuuh* and *Cool*! It's pure happy times."

Silver smiled; she also was looking forward to having a number of happy times... with Blitz.  Inventing.  Creating.  Experimenting.  Fostering that brilliant little mind with as much as she could teach her.  Helping her develop into the mare she saw in the Dynamite Dynamo's future.

The handimare was fairly well smitten with the little filly; she wanted to adopt her, feed her, get her some work overalls, sing silly songs about substitutiary locomotion and machine oil, bake her cookies, teach her everything she knew about... well, EVERYTHING!  She hadn't been this excited in a while; Blitz's energy was highly infectious to Silver, and they were both seemingly feeding off of each other's energy.  And redoubling it, on occasion.

 

On 6/20/2019 at 2:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I hope for Dax. I wanna tell him that his dad want me to make big Kabooms! Then ask him if he wanna see it with us. Oh! Can't forget the fireworks. Veeery important."

Silver nodded.  To think that Daxie made a friend on his own!  I mean, I dunno if he even realizes how smart and talented she is, but as much as he goes on about not having any friends... well, I think Blitz is one heckuva find!

"VERY.  Important!  Yes!  Oh, I'm sure that ANYONE who sees your displays will love it!  And Dax, doubly so - he's always talking about how he would love having friends close-by; if you start working with me, he'll have the chance to see you every day!  And besides, I'm sure you'll make all sorts of friends here - as neato as you are, I'm sure that almost anypony here would make a great friend!"

Especially me, she thought with much glee.

 

On 6/20/2019 at 2:05 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Working here... With you? Every day?

*gasp* YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!"

Silver had to laugh as her own heart echoed the filly's squeal of pure delight.

"You betcha!  I could use an assistant, y'know - as long as you listen and learn, who knows?  Maybe one day, you'll even be able to take over for me on occasion - I could actually have a whole day of rest!  OH," she quickly amended, "not that I don't ever get any rest, but more like I feel I'm at the mercy of whatever pipes or wires go awry - even on a 'day off', I can't go far, in case things break; I can't stand to know I'm needed and not available.  Having an apt assistant would be wonderful!"

Silver herself was getting pretty giddy as the two of them reached the manor house, and Silver knocked vigorously when they got to the big front doors.  A dour-muzzled butler opened the door, giving them both a look that said he was unsure as to how to proceed here.

"Hi, Silver here - Mister Blackwater is probably expecting us?  I mean... I'm pretty sure he is.  Most certainly, maybe."

The butler raised an eyebrow, then gave a slight grin and opened the doorway.  "I was told to expect you and... company."  He gave Blitz a once-over before extending the smile to her as well.  "This way, please."  He motioned to the halls within.

 

 

On 6/29/2019 at 1:03 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Thank you!  It's a guilty pleasure of mine, Dada's, too, kinda.  She likes her flowers more.  The style is just so cute!  I wish I had more room on this thing so I could just have a closet full of them!"

The little blue mare smiled broadly, glad to see the subject change helped things to lighten up.

On 6/29/2019 at 1:03 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Speaking of money, my sister and I are travelling psychics.  I'm a passive empath, and my sister can read the tarot.  My talents are fairly limited, so she's the real breadwinner here."

Two things happened as soon as the words entered the air:

Outwardly, the small mare lifted an eyebrow of interest, and the look on her muzzle seemed to say that she was tempted, considering the possibility of getting psychic advice.

Inwardly, however, her emotions and surface thoughts suddenly - VERY suddenly - just vanished.  Gone.  As if the mailmare standing there had never even shown up in the first place.  The internal emotional change was too abrupt not to notice, but there was not a single sign of any difference on Taps' face.  Cutting oneself off like that was... well, it was eerie, to say the least.

Taps jotted down another note on her pad, and faced it toward Ophelia.

[A psychic reading?  That's where I ask a question, and you try to divine an answer?  That could be interesting - what sort of things do others usually ask advice about?]

Regardless of the lack of empathic output, she still seemed friendly and eager to make a friend... maybe it was something... subconsciously happening?

 

 

On 6/29/2019 at 1:03 PM, Hazard Time said:

"N-No thank you, unless Mister Dax wishes that again.  I was hoping, perhaps, maybe, you could provide me with some information?  I was told you have experience driving 'Benny'?  There is a painting on the wall where it is kept, do you know the ponies involved?"

The moment the word 'Benny' escaped Key's mouth, Chuck's eyes shot wide open and he waved a hoof downward towards the floor, giving the universal sign for 'shhhhhhhh'.

"DON' go hollerin' DAT!  Nopone KNOWZE 'bout dat, an' nopone NEEDS ta know, capeesh?"

He looked around a bit, then motioned with his head for Key to follow him to a spot closer to the equipment bins... a place where nopony could easily overhear them.

"Look, Silvah's da one who got me ta sit innat crazy thing, an' I'm the only one who'd evah be nuts enuff ta drive it!  You wanna know waddeye know 'bout Benny, den we can chat - but not onna job floor!  Silvah sez dere's pones out dere who'd sell dat thing inna hoofbeat - an' dat thing's been dere since before I worked heah; I gadder it's some sorta... Air-Loom... kinda stuff.  But dere's only supposed ta be one uddah pone who knows 'bout Benny, an' dat's Silvah.  Mebbe Beck 'r' Call.  An' Daxie."

He then blinked a bit, looking at Key again.  "Wait... you sed youze wanted ta know who was inna pictyah?"  He pondered the question for a moment, then shrugged with a kindly yet apologetic smile.  "Sorry, kiddo - I gots no idea who dey is.  I ain't no expert on Blackwater his'try 'r' nuttin'... but Daxie sure is!  Betcha HE could tellya who dey are.  Me?  Heh, I just drive da thing when Silvah needs me to; udder den dat, I go no clue, honest."

He gave Key a grin.  "But I can tell ya whatevah you'd like ta know 'bout dat thing, Benny," he glanced around again, "long's ya keep yer voice down, arrite?"

 

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Randimaxis

On 7/10/2019 at 12:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Your secret's safe... but we might get some... uhm, 'amused' looks.  Heh heh."

Mystic still looked a bit concerned, but was quite relieved. Her own face matched Dax's as he brought up their first interaction, "Oh? And what exactly did you tell her about me then? Because I think she may know more than just what you told her, especially with the look she had when you entered."

On 7/10/2019 at 12:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

"When Illiad was here,

At the mention of Illiad, Mystic lost a slight bit of her earlier enthusiasm, but did her best to hide it. Does he know? Is it even my place to tell him?

On 7/10/2019 at 12:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

"My room's right next door!"

Her enthusiasm perked right back up at being shown her room, and who her neighbor would be. She adopted a bit of a sultry look, "Oh, the new filly living so close to the young Mister Blackwater, what would the servants think? Oh!" she put a hoof to her lips in a false gesture of embaresment, "What would your mother think? How scandalous!" her blush returned with a short bout of giggles, "If my mother knew... she'd be appalled. To her what we did in Troy was practically an engagement. To live right next to you? She'd demand we be wed on the morrow!"

Perhaps it was a bit of her nerves talking, but she was dancing around the real issue, Right next door? The servants would be all over this place! They'd be suspicious of me already, but now that I'm suddenly rooming next to Dax? They'll be watching my every move, and reporting everything back to Vylia, and my own mother if she has her way.

Outwardly she was lovestruck and coy, but inwardly she was worried, but also quite intrigued that she could be so close to him.

I'd be able to see him every night, practically feel him... if it weren't for the risks, it'd be heaven.

"I'd love to see what you showed Illiad, but I'd say that personally I'm more interested in the creatures here than the buildings. I'd like to get to know them if I can, I don't know if I'd be as lucky as Illiad to befriend them all, but..."

She took the opportunity to nuzzle him on the cheek, "I've got the only one I need right here."

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

On 7/10/2019 at 8:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

"VERY.  Important!  Yes!  Oh, I'm sure that ANYONE who sees your displays will love it!  And Dax, doubly so - he's always talking about how he would love having friends close-by; if you start working with me, he'll have the chance to see you every day!  And besides, I'm sure you'll make all sorts of friends here - as neato as you are, I'm sure that almost anypony here would make a great friend!"

Not just working with Silver, but being closer to Dax too, so that she could show him fun fireworks all the time, in a place that actively wanted her to make things that exploded? Blitz might have pinched herself to make sure this wasn't a dream, were she more focused on the whole thing, because this sounded like basically paradise to her. Having Dax - whom she were going to prove she were the bestest of best friends of - just there, meant that she could just go over and show him any improvement she made to the display she made for him, or crafted something new. Perhaps something where he were standing near a barrel of gunpowder and it just exploded in front of him for example? Uuuh, fun future project!

Being around Silver most of the rest of time would make up for not being near enough to see Pinkie often, and yeah, she didn't have anypony here around her own age to play with, but there weren't many of them in Ponyville either. Or to be more exact, there weren't many left that hadn't told to stay far away from her, and the few who hadn't, usually still kept their foals close when the explosive filly were in the area. So it basically wouldn't be much difference from back there.

Well, there were that Oglevy foal here though. He might be around her age, and Dax hadn't been against her getting to be his playmate, so perhaps they could bond and be good friends then? Something to strive towards for sure. And really, how bad could he be?

On 7/10/2019 at 8:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

"You betcha!  I could use an assistant, y'know - as long as you listen and learn, who knows?  Maybe one day, you'll even be able to take over for me on occasion - I could actually have a whole day of rest!  OH," she quickly amended, "not that I don't ever get any rest, but more like I feel I'm at the mercy of whatever pipes or wires go awry - even on a 'day off', I can't go far, in case things break; I can't stand to know I'm needed and not available.  Having an apt assistant would be wonderful!"

"I'll learn how to do smart stuff and fix all the bad pipe thingies! I Pinkie Promise."

Blitz would go through the motions of reciting the weird little chant and movements that made the Pinkie Promise, which might as well be a cultist thing around here, since they likely had never even met the logic-defying mare before. However, that were the sort of thinking that didn't even register with Blitz as she were feeding off this energy loop that Silver and herself were being hyped into and magnifying. Honestly, with a little ingenuity and the right wiring, it'd likely be possible to harvest actual power from them in situations like this.

As for the pipes, Blitz had seen some of the whole mess once, and she thought at least that she had learned some important things about it, so if she just followed and helped Silver more and more with her work, then surely she'd pick up on how to do all sorts of things without even needing a helping hoof. Long as she were made aware several times that blowing up the pipes somewhere were likely not going to solve any issue it might have, Silver could likely mold the filly from a crazed, semi-unstable explosives expert, into a crazed, semi-unstable explosives And maintenance expert.

It felt like sparks were jolting off her skin soon as they reached the door to the manor, and until the door had opened, the filly would have scratched at the door like an impatient cat. Soon as somepony showed up though...

On 7/10/2019 at 8:35 PM, Randimaxis said:

A dour-muzzled butler opened the door, giving them both a look that said he was unsure as to how to proceed here.

"Hi, Silver here - Mister Blackwater is probably expecting us?  I mean... I'm pretty sure he is.  Most certainly, maybe."

The butler raised an eyebrow, then gave a slight grin and opened the doorway.  "I was told to expect you and... company."  He gave Blitz a once-over before extending the smile to her as well.  "This way, please."  He motioned to the halls within.

"Fancy clothes pony needs huggles!"

Blitz would have thrown herself forward and given the dour stallion's nearest leg a big ol' hug, with a happy smile on her little face that made it almost sweet enough to cause a tooth cavity just from looking at her.

Before he had even stopped talking though, she had let go and the second he stepped to the side so that they could enter, Blitz would gallop in and head in a random direction, trying to find Dax on her own. Unless Silver used her magic to stop the filly, the manor would soon have a crazed filly with fireworks loose within, who'd very soon manage to get herself well and truly lost, yet giggling away with the sort of mischievous and joyful look on her face that would make lesser ponies feel the hairs on the back of their neck stand on edge. Nothing good tended to happen when it involved anypony with that sorta facial expression.

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 7/10/2019 at 11:35 AM, Randimaxis said:

[A psychic reading?  That's where I ask a question, and you try to divine an answer?  That could be interesting - what sort of things do others usually ask advice about?]

Ophelia kept her mind to herself.  She wasn't touching Taps' mind for a long while after what she saw.  Her sanity needed a break.

"Questions about romance, finances, life choices...mostly romance, though.  That's really popular.  My sister doesn't claim to have THE answer, it's more advice given from ether.  It is the petitioner who would understand this advice best."  In the background, Dahlia was beginning to shuffle her deck.  Ophelia's conversation had allowed her time to rest and recuperate, and she was ready for another reading.

On 7/10/2019 at 11:35 AM, Randimaxis said:

"Look, Silvah's da one who got me ta sit innat crazy thing, an' I'm the only one who'd evah be nuts enuff ta drive it!  You wanna know waddeye know 'bout Benny, den we can chat - but not onna job floor!  Silvah sez dere's pones out dere who'd sell dat thing inna hoofbeat - an' dat thing's been dere since before I worked heah; I gadder it's some sorta... Air-Loom... kinda stuff.  But dere's only supposed ta be one uddah pone who knows 'bout Benny, an' dat's Silvah.  Mebbe Beck 'r' Call.  An' Daxie."

Low recoiled at the sudden shushing.  He should have said something else at that point.  Who did this forepony think he was, shushing a noble?!  Carnelian wouldn't have taken this, and the unicorn opened his mouth to say as much.  He then closed his mouth and said no more.  Coward.

His ears twitched as he was led back into seclusion, listening to the story Chuck had to tell.  He could understand the value something like that would have, he just didn't see it.  It was another reinvention of the wheel, though one which didn't immediately appeal to his aesthetic standards.

What he cared more about was Chuck's lack of knowledge on the painting.  His ears flattened as his hopes were dashed, though they were reinvigorated as he was pointed in Dax's direction.  His emotions continued to roller coaster, however, as he remembered how the Blackwater's scheming had set him up for a humiliation.  Low wasn't sure how he should feel about Dax, but he didn't at all seem to mind asking him those questions again.

"Thank you for your assistance, Mr. List.  Do you know where I might be able to find Mr. Dax?"

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 7/13/2019 at 7:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh? And what exactly did you tell her about me then? Because I think she may know more than just what you told her, especially with the look she had when you entered."

Dax blushed a bit.  "Ummm... well, Mother's always had a knack for information - she's REALLY good at finding things out.  But in this case, I think she just..."

... sees that I'm in love when I speak about you...

"... wants to be nosy, as far as you and I are concerned.  She does that - busies herself with looking into other's business - when she's sizing up someone's potential; I wouldn't be surprised if she knows more than she lets on... but I promise you, completely, that I never told anyone your secret.  I can be kinda clueless... but I'm not stupid!"

I just hope Mother's information network isn't good enough to discover the truth...

 

On 7/13/2019 at 7:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh, the new filly living so close to the young Mister Blackwater, what would the servants think? Oh!  What would your mother think? How scandalous!  If my mother knew... she'd be appalled. To her what we did in Troy was practically an engagement. To live right next to you? She'd demand we be wed on the morrow!"

Married...

Dax fidgeted a bit, laughed along with her, and tried not to let his blush devour him at the mention of marriage.

"Is it really like that?  I m-mean, I've studied the-... uh, th-those... when I was in Troy, and even got to ask a number of questions, but... is it really like that for you?  I mean, when it comes to THAT subject, you certainly seem to have a number of traditions.  Mind if I ask about them?  Y'know, what they are & why they are, if you know?"

 

On 7/13/2019 at 7:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"I'd love to see what you showed Illiad, but I'd say that personally I'm more interested in the creatures here than the buildings. I'd like to get to know them if I can, I don't know if I'd be as lucky as Illiad to befriend them all, but... I've got the only one I need right here."

Huzawaaaah.

Blamina flufftay, bohuuna fahlahaha bennaito hoofah.  Plahfnsa.  

Eeyup... that summed it up nicely.

Dax's own smile grew misty and contented as she nuzzled his cheek; he'd always been starved for physical attention, and any opportunity he got, he relished.  It may have only been a passing affection with her, but for the young Blackwater stallion, it was pure delight.

"... yeah... uhhm... I... w-wait..." he said as he started to shake off his romantic haze, "... you mean to... t-to meet the others here?  Well, hey - I can do that!  There's plenty of other folks here to meet!  Sure!  As soon as you're changed and ready, I can take you to meet just about everyone here!  There's a buncha folks!"

He elected to wait in the hallway, excited about the coming introductions; this was like having Illiad here all over again... except Dax wouldn't have stared at the Trojan the way he stared at the young zebra filly.

 

 

 

On 7/21/2019 at 5:29 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I'll learn how to do smart stuff and fix all the bad pipe thingies! I Pinkie Promise."

Silver's laugh was kind and excited; she finally had the chance to have an assistant here!

The grey unicorn had been working almost constantly since she arrived at the quarry all those years ago, which was how she liked it, frankly.  Never a dull moment, always something to care for, something to fix, something to maintain, something to do... it'd been a dream come true for a handimare like her.  However, there had been a few times - few and far between - where she sorta, kinda, almost wished she could have a day off, every now and again.

Besides, one of the greatest joys that anyone handy with their hooves could get was to have someone to teach all their tricks to - someone showing interest, genuine interest, in what she did enough to learn from her how to do it.  And Blitz, though incredibly hyperactive, had the potential to become just as gifted and happy in her work as Silver herself was.

Truly, she felt as though this day couldn't get any better unless Illiad himself showed up.

 

On 7/21/2019 at 5:29 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Fancy clothes pony needs huggles!"

"GAAAAAH!"

The butler pony balked, then shook his leg as he tried to make the pony-shaped barnacle turn loose of his favorite limb - which she did on her own.  Once she hit the floor and began to take off, the butler looked rather irritated.  Silver, however, simply gave the butler a shrug and a smile, then wrangled the little dynamo in with a gentle magic pull.

"Blitz, we shouldn't go wandering the manor without permission!"

Pulling her close by, Silver leaned down and spoke sotto voce:  "My first time in the manor, I got lost - couldn't find my way out for hours!  And I'm fairly certain that Mister Blackwater wouldn't care for anypony blowing a hole in a wall to get out... so, stick with me?  At the very least, I can try to keep us both out of trouble!"

Looking a bit perturbed, the butler led them down many richly decorated hallways until they reached those tall, no-nonsense office doors that separated Luther Blackwater from the rest of the manor.  The butler politely knocked, then stepped back.

"Enter," was all that came from inside, in a voice that brooked no argument.  The butler opened the door carefully, then motioned inside to the two guests.

Silver smiled at Blitz.  "After you!"

 

 

On 7/21/2019 at 6:38 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Questions about romance, finances, life choices...mostly romance, though.  That's really popular.  My sister doesn't claim to have THE answer, it's more advice given from ether.  It is the petitioner who would understand this advice best." 

Taps gave a silent giggle when romance was mentioned, then wrote on her pad again.

[So, I could ask questions about more esoteric stuff, but nothing like asking where I left my grandmare's pocket watch, right?  Okay, I might actually be interested in trying this - it sounds like it would be an interesting thing to participate in!  If you're currently in business, then why don't I give it a try?]

The diminutive mailmare motioned towards the cart with a raised eyebrow, as if asking if inside is where she ought to go. 

 

 

On 7/21/2019 at 6:38 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Thank you for your assistance, Mr. List.  Do you know where I might be able to find Mr. Dax?"

Chuck shrugged.  "Fer whadditz wort', I seen 'im makin' his way towa'd the manor not too long ago.  Kinda figger he's dere, probably - 'course, dat fella's always inta somethin'... meybbe he's arredy elsewheres onna grounds heah.  But th' manor's where I'd check foist, wuz I you."

He grinned.  "Y'know, Daxie ain't evah had many pals - yer a real good stallion fer bein' a bud to 'im.  He needs dat... t'anks.  An' you keep dat stuff 'bout Benny under yer hat, ifya get my drift?  I don' wanna get inta trubble, so's keep it quiet if ya please."

With that, he gave a headshake and a short chuckle, then pointed towards the manor house.  "Arrite, don' lemme keepya - go to'wit, an' besta luck to ya!"

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Randimaxis

5 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

"... wants to be nosy, as far as you and I are concerned.  She does that - busies herself with looking into other's business - when she's sizing up someone's potential; I wouldn't be surprised if she knows more than she lets on... but I promise you, completely, that I never told anyone your secret.  I can be kinda clueless... but I'm not stupid!"

Mystic smiled at that, letting her concern diminish. It was clear that if Vylia knew, which she certainly wasn't letting on if she did, she hadn't gotten it from Dax.

5 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

"Is it really like that?  I m-mean, I've studied the-... uh, th-those... when I was in Troy, and even got to ask a number of questions, but... is it really like that for you?  I mean, when it comes to THAT subject, you certainly seem to have a number of traditions.  Mind if I ask about them?  Y'know, what they are & why they are, if you know?"

A bit of Selena's elation dipped at his hesitation, though she didn't show it outwardly. Does he not want that? Maybe I mentioned it too soon... or maybe he doesn't like me like that? She inwardly shuddered at the thought. While she was still mostly sure Dax's love was pure and genuine, a seed of doubt had been planted. 

Nonetheless, on the outside she was just as playful and optimistic as ever, "Oh no!" she waved a hoof dismissively, "You know my mother's a bit, old fashioned is all, came from her growing up in Stalliongrad. I guess the customs there are just as foreign to Equestria as they are to Troy. As to us, there really isn't much of a tradition." Except that the husband either ends up murdered or abandons the family, but that's just misfortune and not tradition.

A bit of worry entered her own thoughts, in part affected by Dax's own hesitation. What if what happened to my father happens to Dax? Mother was devastated for years...

She shook her head a bit as she noticed the corners of her mouth had started to droop slightly, and returned the smile to her face. No, I won't let it happen here. Besides, it's not like Dax is a big political figure or anything.

5 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

He elected to wait in the hallway, excited about the coming introductions; this was like having Illiad here all over again... except Dax wouldn't have stared at the Trojan the way he stared at the young zebra filly.

Selena could feel Dax's loving eyes on her as she entered the room with her bags, "I won't keep you waiting long then, I promise!" How can I know? Is his love pure? or am I biasing my perception?

She would set her things down in a pile in the middle of whatever open area she could find in the room, there'd be time to unpack later once she'd gotten a lay of the room, and the quarry it sat in. She would retrieve carefully from her bags a small collapsible record player, which she would set up on the closest stable surface to her bed she could find, to be followed by a short stack of records for it.

She would then go to change, removing the fancy jewelry she had put on for Vylia, but she would leave in the earrings and the steel necklace. She idly wondered if she should wear a Trojan robe, but while she didn't want to wear too much she hardly wanted to go with nothing, so she pulled a thin scarf out of her bags, it was light enough that it seemed to float through the air as she moved it, tying it loosely around her neck and draping it across her back, the soft amber color accentuating her occasional golden stripe nicely.

She took a deep breath before she would return to the hallway, "Alright Dax, who am I going to meet first?"

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

Blitz would try her darnedest to wriggle free of the magic aura that kept her more or less leashed, even trying to use her own horn to gain some wriggle room, but with her focus being low right now, energy not at top, and Silver being a an older and far more experienced unicorn than her, it were no contest: She were staying put, and that was it.

Whilst walking onward to Luther's office, she'd keep trying to get loose and run in a random direction a handful of times more, hellbent on being loose and have just a teensie look around the place before they'd get to Luther. Sure she wanted to show him her explosives and hopefully hear that he liked them, but... Come ooooon. This was the first time she had ever been in a building this big! Just imagine all the cool stuff you could find around here? Like gold, jewels, and springs. Beautiful, wonderful springs! She weren't gonna take anything she saw, since that'd just be mean, but she were a curious sort who wanted to explore her surroundings and find out what stuff were there. Came from being an inventor mostly working with scavenged stuff. It just gave that initiate want to see what raw materials could be out there, just in case.

After a while though, she gave in, and just started to bounce around both Silver and the butler pony whilst giggling at varied volume levels. Considering how the butler had reacted to just the hug, having a somewhat crazed looking filly bounce around and giggling like this, were probably not going to make him see her all that favorably. Though considering how she tended to be, she were going to have some rather polarising responses to her presence around the quarry more than likely, if she were to stay. Some would be like Silver, Dax and Ziggy, who liked having her around, and then there were others like one of the twin butlers, and potentially this one, who would see her as the second foal in this place that you had to be wary off. Not as bad as Oglevy yet, but they'd see, they'd see.

On 7/25/2019 at 7:08 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Enter," was all that came from inside, in a voice that brooked no argument.  The butler opened the door carefully, then motioned inside to the two guests.

Silver smiled at Blitz.  "After you!"

Silver would hardly have the chance to be done speaking before Blitz jumped in and landed on her two back hooves, whilst her front ones were up in the air as she stood as tall as she could be. The open mouth smile on her face shone with happiness, and above her head, the bag of explosive goodies she had brought floated along without a hitch.

"Hello Da-Whoa."

Blitz might be able to stand like this for a little bit, but she weren't trained in it, and with her usually compensating for the weight of the wings too, she lost balance pretty quickly and stumbled backwards on to her back. The bag floating above her dipped a bit, but she still had it under control, so no smashing stuff into her stomach this time. Pretty good too, the fireworks display had somewhat pointy corners, and that'd just hurt to get poked with.

Getting back on her hooves and shaking it off, Blitz recast her joyful gaze towards Luther and gave him a big smile that nearly dripped with rainbows and kittens. A stark contrast to his usual demeanor, which had likely not changed for this meeting.

"Hehe, hello Dax-Dad. We got the fun stuff here! Fireworks for Dax and you, and then lots of dynamite funsies just for you. I made three ones that goes from small boom, to big whammy kabloomy bammy! You wanna see and go blow something up? Huh? Huh? Huh?"

Blitz jumped in place, looking like she were about to burst with glee, though a small change had come when she were talking about going out and exploding something. The fathomless joy on her face as that little tingle went down her back from the mere thought of this, should speak volumes of how much enjoyment she got out of the whole process to Luther. If he looked on it from a business perspective, this would probably be a good thing as yes, she might be somewhat unhinged, but when she enjoyed causing things to explode like this, she wouldn't slack on making them a stockpile, and she'd likely strive for making something better constantly. Who knew what could come from this with the right motivation, guidance by Silver, and proper materials? They might be able to mine whole mountains in mere days down the line. Or they'd level the countryside. There were always a risk of that when it came to Blitz.

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 7/25/2019 at 10:08 AM, Randimaxis said:

[So, I could ask questions about more esoteric stuff, but nothing like asking where I left my grandmare's pocket watch, right?  Okay, I might actually be interested in trying this - it sounds like it would be an interesting thing to participate in!  If you're currently in business, then why don't I give it a try?]

"Oh we're definitely in business!  Please, come inside and have a seat, would you like some chamomile?  I just made some."  Ophelia made way for the mute mare as Dahlia set her tarot deck on the table.

"Welcome," she greeted warmly.  "What question is on your mind today?  Did Ophelia answer all of your questions, or is there anything else you wish to hear straight from me?"  The empath returned with a tray, upon which sat a kettle and two teacups, and sat it gently upon the table.

"It may need a minute to steep, so take your time centering yourself."

On 7/25/2019 at 10:08 AM, Randimaxis said:

He grinned.  "Y'know, Daxie ain't evah had many pals - yer a real good stallion fer bein' a bud to 'im.  He needs dat... t'anks.  An' you keep dat stuff 'bout Benny under yer hat, ifya get my drift?  I don' wanna get inta trubble, so's keep it quiet if ya please."

"Then it would appear that we may have a runaround on our hooves...very well, hopefully I won't miss him this time."  Low was about to thank Chuck and leave him to his work before the comment about his friendship came up.  His cheeks flushed as he nodded, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Of course, Chuck.  I will be there for him."  Just how much, though?  Until he reciprocates your affection?  Until he shoots you down?  Low shook those thoughts from his head.  He could ask Miss Carnelian later.  She always had all the answers...even if they hurt him.

He wasted no more time, hurrying towards the manor house.  If he was lucky, he'd be exactly where Chuck said he'd be, or fairly close to it.  If he was out for much longer, he may just retire to his matron's room to speak with her.  He felt that she would want to debrief him about his conduct this morning, and it would be in his best interests to preempt it than force her to come looking for him.  That was something he had learned early.

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 7/25/2019 at 7:05 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh no!  You know my mother's a bit... old fashioned is all - came from her growing up in Stalliongrad. I guess the customs there are just as foreign to Equestria as they are to Troy. As to us, there really isn't much of a tradition."

Dax let a single eyebrow raise.  "Really?  I'd kinda got the impression that there were a LOT of Traditions - I mean, seeing as there was so much that went on when I visited, uhm..." 

He gave a conspiratorial glance around before finishing his sentence. "... your people, s-so to speak.  I mean, it's not that I didn't like them, no!  I j-just... well," he sighed, "I really want things to go off well between us, y'know?  Back in Troy, we had a great time - at least I know I did - and I just don't wanna... well... I d-don't wanna mess things up.  I don't want to make the wrong gesture, or say the wrong words, or... o-or..."

Were I to lose you, the sound of my heart rending in half would send all of Equus into a great mourning, an ocean of tears to sail on a boat made of sorrow...

"... I r-really, REALLY just don't want to mess up.  Not with you."

Though the sheepish grin he put on was a trademark of his by now, the bright emeralds in his head seemed to almost sparkle - and in that sparkle, she could almost see herself.

 

On 7/25/2019 at 7:05 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"I won't keep you waiting long then, I promise!"

Dax nodded eagerly, and waited patiently... almost.

The young Blackwater was electric; he couldn't seem to keep standing still for more than a second or two, and the butterflies in his stomach made a rather astonishing transformation into great big Whooping Cranes that flapped about, bumbling and gangly inside him.  

However, when she removed the record player and albums from her things, Dax's attention was instantly rapt.  The lovely marble bedside table was large enough to hold the player, and sturdy enough not to collapse under the weight of it and her records.  Dax barely noticed when she went to change; he was looking at the player and everything about it.  The spindle, the arm, the needle... it was a contraption he'd seen before, granted - but not in a form like this.

He had just begun to glance toward the stack of records when Mystic reappeared, be-scarfed and all.  He stared at her for a heartbeat more than one, then blushed as he realized it.

 

On 7/25/2019 at 7:05 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Alright Dax, who am I going to meet first?"

His eyes lit up.  "I guess we should go head out and see?" 

He extended a hoof to her, and for that moment, Mystic caught a slight ghost of an afterimage, almost; she could see the handsome adult he would eventually grow into, a flash of it - like a blink of a mirage.  But then, there was Dax Blackwater, his burgeoning stallionhood evident, his manner shy but kind, his heart all but soaring from his barrel.  

"Okay, then - to the quarry!"

With that, he led her down the hallway and down the front stairs, his manner somewhere between a gentlecolt and something comparable to Blitz Boom.  

Speaking of which...

 

 

 

On 7/27/2019 at 1:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Sure she wanted to show him her explosives and hopefully hear that he liked them, but... come ooooooon. This was the first time she had ever been in a building this big!

The manor was indeed stately, if perhaps a bit... ostentatious, due to Madam Blackwater's rather garish tastes.  There were hallways that looked like they'd been painted by a master painter... aaaaaaand then there was the one with plaid wallpaper.  There was almost a theme going on here:  there would be a number of works of priceless art, lovely tables and chairs, a potted plant or two - and then, almost out of nowhere, gold-sequined curtains with a pine green trim, hanging from a bright pink curtain rod.  It was almost as if the decor had been specifically chosen to be jarring.

From the point of view of a scavenger inventor such as Blitz, this place was chock slam FULL of all sorts of stuff she could work with!  The awful curtain rods alone would be easy to retro-fit and attach to any number of things, some of these chairs were made of metal parts that could be removed and used in countless contraptions, and SO many doors leading to rooms possibly full of even MORE potential stuff!  This was a scavver's DREAM... but, like a good little filly who totally is NOT insane, thank you very much mister butler pony, Blitz didn't take a single, solitary item that wasn't hers.

Making a mental list of what was available and where it was, well... there was nothing wrong with that, was there?  After all, there was always 'just in case', right?

 

On 7/27/2019 at 1:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Considering how the butler had reacted to just the hug, having a somewhat crazed looking filly bounce around and giggling like this, were probably not going to make him see her all that favorably.

The butler gave the little filly the most polite and cultured stink-eye she'd ever seen, but he didn't seem to be actively disliking her.  Silver originally started by asking about how things were going in the household, but got sidetracked into speaking about some sort of garden plow she'd built last season, and then it segued into a self-aimed conversation about wind-speed ratios as opposed to the drag on a pair of canvas wings.  

He gave her the proper amount of attention that was required to be polite, but Blitz got the impression that he'd rather be elsewhere than dealing with other ponies.  He didn't look like he was angry - just a bit like either she or Silver had some sort of obnoxious scent coming from them... and he was choosing to not mention it.

 

On 7/27/2019 at 1:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Hello Da-Whoa."

Luther lifted a single eyebrow, but said nothing.  Yet.

 

On 7/27/2019 at 1:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Hehe, hello Dax-Dad. We got the fun stuff here! Fireworks for Dax and you, and then lots of dynamite funsies just for you. I made three ones that goes from small boom, to big whammy kabloomy bammy! You wanna see and go blow something up? Huh? Huh? Huh?"

Silver, who'd been confident and unassuming during the walk here, now sort of folded into herself a bit; the sight of The Boss in his 'natural environment' was always a bit unnerving to her.

She recalled one time she'd been in here, trying to petition Mister Blackwater for funding for a number of scientific projects; though she'd practiced with Dax beforehoof, being here in the office, directly in front of the stern and steely gaze of Luther Blackwater himself, well... she'd just locked up.  Frozen completely.  If it hadn't been for Illiad... oh, Illiad...

She shook herself before she fell into sweet reverie, and refocused on the stallion in front of them both.

She wasn't wrong - Luther had meticulously purchased, placed and decorated his entire office to add to his own personal intimidation factor.  He'd read up on psychology during his younger days, and had taken the idea of intimidation to the furthest reaches he could when it came to his own personal room.  The walls were bookcases, all filled with a number of tomes and ledgers - some of them were only months old, while many others were aged by the decades, and more still looked to be a century or two old... and giving to those of weaker willpower the feeling of being pressed in on all sides by the ever-so-slight tilt of the walls, leaning in toward the center.  The stoic, brooding painting of the Blackwater himself was directly behind his chair, giving a staggered doubling-effect that made it feel like Luther was staring you down TWICE.

It had been a savvy move, because a number of deals had been made in this very room, with some of Equestria's most hardlined individuals... and Luther had come out on top.

Still, there were a scant few allowances for some decor that made one curious:  The large Celadon Urn in the corner, containing a single, sad-looking little red stem with a muzzle-sized bulb growing from it, closed and non-budding; the small framed photograph on the desk of a younger, still dour-faced Luther with a younger, sporty-fashioned Vylia by his side, nuzzling him; the modest stack of paperback books next to his large rosewood desk... all small signs that Luther might not have been 100% business ALL the time.

The Blackwater stallion stood up, much like a mountain rising from its' basin, and stepped forward to meet the two of them; the butler was nowhere to be seen.

"Good.  I am pleased that you are prompt.  We will go to the eastern peak; explosions there should be safe for the quarry.  It is not far."

With this, he simply turned to the doorway and walked out.  After a beat, Silver jumped like she'd been shocked and followed after him, motioning for Blitz to follow.  As they caught up to him, Luther spoke to nopony in particular: "Tell me of your work - what power levels do you have to show me?"  Silver looked to Blitz and motioned at her boss, offering the Little Dynamo the chance to talk about her favorite thing... EXPLOSIONS.

Silver grinned.  Here we go - this should be GOOD...

 

 

 

On 8/19/2019 at 12:37 AM, Hazard Time said:

"Oh we're definitely in business!  Please, come inside and have a seat, would you like some chamomile?  I just made some." 

Taps nodded with a smile, taking the offered seat and giving the inside of the carriage a once-over as her eyes flitted from thing to thing, seemingly enjoying the decor before turning to Dahlia and giving a friendly little wave of her hoof.  She seemed so small and unassuming - almost filly-sized.

 

On 8/19/2019 at 12:37 AM, Hazard Time said:

"Welcome, What question is on your mind today?  Did Ophelia answer all of your questions, or is there anything else you wish to hear straight from me?" 

"It may need a minute to steep, so take your time centering yourself."

She gave a nod to Ophelia, then turned to face the card reader fully, clearing her throat (a cute little squeak of a cough) before taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly.

Her face a mask of seriousness, she brought forth her pad and pencil and began to write... then erased, frowned, then tried again.  Stopping, she looked at it, then at Dahlia, then shook her head and erased again.  She then stared at the pad for several seconds with such intensity that one would almost think she were trying to make it catch fire with her mind alone... then she made a growly-sound at the back of her throat and began to s-l-o-w-l-y began to write, flicking looks at the tarot deck on occasion.

After a bit of this, she finally nodded once, twice, thrice and set the pad down on the table, facing Dahlia.

[I plan to take a vacation soon, but I don't want to plan it out - I want it to be spontaneous!  But, I'm worried about what might happen to me, or if I'll have any issues while I'm gone.  Is there any way I could ask you about what sort of readings you could get about how things will go for me IF I do this completely at a random whim?]

The little mailmare gave a sheepish grin that could give Dax a run for his bits.

 

 

On 8/19/2019 at 12:37 AM, Hazard Time said:

"Of course, Chuck.  I will be there for him."  

The forepony waved him on with a half-grin, and it wasn't long before Key was cresting the rise that would bring him to the manor itself.  As he got close, passing the well-kept hedges near the front, he did indeed spy Dax Blackwater himself, headed out towards him and the quarry behind him...

And a lovely young zebra mare with him.

There was no way to know what this development meant yet.  Maybe this was one of those few and far-between friends Chuck had mentioned?  Maybe she was one of Ziggy's relatives?  Maybe she was one of the other staff members here he hadn't seen yet, or maybe... maybe... maybe he wasn't looking at her the way he seemed to be looking at her?  Maybe... she wasn't looking back at him the same way?  Maybe?

Key had mere moments before he was seen; it was obvious that the Blackwater nor his companion hadn't noticed yet.  This was a chance: Would he greet Dax and company as a noble should, or would he choose to possibly hide and learn more about this situation before stepping into it?  Whatever it was Key was going to do, he'd have to decide quickly.

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Randimaxis

11 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

"... I r-really, REALLY just don't want to mess up.  Not with you."

Mystic gave a soft, yet comforting giggle as she shook her head, "Don't worry, so long as my secret's safe I know you'll do fine. You let your heart lead, and we'll forget about what the traditions say."

11 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

He extended a hoof to her, and for that moment, Mystic caught a slight ghost of an afterimage, almost; she could see the handsome adult he would eventually grow into, a flash of it - like a blink of a mirage.  But then, there was Dax Blackwater, his burgeoning stallionhood evident, his manner shy but kind, his heart all but soaring from his barrel.  

It was interesting, catching a glimpse of the future like that, they usually only came when she tried to see them, which led her to believe that perhaps she had simply imagined it herself, projected what she anticipated he could become. Nonetheless, it was a pleasant image, and only served to add to the smile on her face, the doubt from before nearly destroyed by both this and the flood of worry he had about upsetting her.

@Hazard Time (I hope I don't overstep with this)

11 hours ago, Randimaxis said:

Key had mere moments before he was seen

Given what she was, she didn't have to see someone to be aware of them, and thus noticed the stallion as soon as he noticed them, and the doubt that she had previously thought destroyed resurfaced, stronger than before.

What is this? A stallion confused, who's feelings reach... Is this why Dax wasn't so enthusiastic?

While Mystic knew of jealousy, her rather prestigious upbringing, combined with a good deal of humility, had led her to not experience it much before, but now...

She didn't know exactly who or where this onlooker was, nor could she gauge Dax's reaction until they met, but she knew they were watching. She not so subtly pulled Dax closer to her, trying in her way to tell whoever was watching: This one's mine.

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

On 8/21/2019 at 2:32 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Good.  I am pleased that you are prompt.  We will go to the eastern peak; explosions there should be safe for the quarry.  It is not far."

"I were done an hour ago I think, but then we started talking about fun things, then Silver put a magic thing on my wings, and then I took a fun ride on them as they went all bouncy. Hehehe, it was so much Fun! Like clinging to the tail of a running timberwolf."

Although the timberwolves refused to deal with her anymore, after her repeated exploding of them made it clear that she were far too dangerous to be worth the trouble, it hadn't always been like that, and in one situation, one of them had avoided an explosion by falling into some experimental crackling powder she were toying around with, which caused it to run around, yipping whilst shedding the affected bark that were feeling like someone had rolled it in a mixture of high grade chili, and itching powder.

At that time, Blitz had been clinging to its tail with her hooves, and her teeth down on a part of the looser bark, so she got bounced around a lot as it ran around in a confused, uncomfortable state.

Why she had done it? They had asked that same question at the hospital, when she came in to get some splinters taken out of her muzzle, but they didn't seem to accept *It looked like it'd be fun* as an answer. Stormy hadn't been all that thrilled either, but it wasn't like she had done it since then. They wood puppies didn't want to play with her, and splinters in the tongue hurt.

"And you got your own explosions area? I did too in the Everfree Forest. A place with lots of gravel. Real safe place with lotsa open room, and nothing to set on fire. A peak sounds more fun though. All flat terrain's booooooring."

Granted, that place used to be filled with big rocks, but a certain filly had done short work of that, so... Gravel grounds.Had to be real careful to not get debris flinging at you there, when testing a new explosive.

On 8/21/2019 at 2:32 PM, Randimaxis said:

"Tell me of your work - what power levels do you have to show me?" 

Ooooh, Now came a really fun subject. Second only to eventually showing off what the explosions would do in practice, once they had gotten to the peak that Luther talked about. Seemed like he'd want them to talk about this as they moved? That was line with her. The faster they could make things go BOOM! the better.

"I think you're gonna find it reeeeal fun, Dax-Dad. Not sure what the force-thingies and stuff that smarty ponies like Silver knows all about, but I judge on what it does to rocks. Big ones, like a boulder the size of three of you, just one standing on the other."

So a big, intimidating piece of rock essentially. Just that she were sure what her explosions did to rocks, but she weren't entirely sure about Luther. He had this real nasty stare that she bet were going to scare the fire right off the fuse, in case anything happened that'd but it near her. Sure that didn't make logical sense, but neither did Pinkie, so hah! Logic didn't always win.

And no, she wasn't gonna test it. Trying to explode ponies were insanely evil.

"Small dynamite explodes the rock. Medium one should be strong enough to pulverize it. And the big one... I dunno. I never made one that full of really good kaboom before. Sorta guessing it'll leave a crater. Or a cave. I gots some fun things in my workshop back in the forest that I used to make caves into mountains with. Then Mayor Mare asked for them. Said it were reeeeally important. Dunno what she's doing with them, but I haven't seen new craters anywhere. Perhaps she sent them off to another place?"

She'd bounce around joyfully as she explained this, following Luther if he were indeed walking, and otherwise just trying to bounce around him. She didn't do well in just standing still for prolonged periods of time. Though on the bright side, she wouldn't care all that much about what were going on in the manor as this went on. Her mind were more focused on the inevitable fun parts, that'd come with testing the explosions.

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 8/21/2019 at 5:32 AM, Randimaxis said:

Taps nodded with a smile, taking the offered seat and giving the inside of the carriage a once-over as her eyes flitted from thing to thing, seemingly enjoying the decor before turning to Dahlia and giving a friendly little wave of her hoof.  She seemed so small and unassuming - almost filly-sized.

Though Ophelia would have been fairly close to Taps' size, Dahlia most definitely towered over her, forcing the lanky mare to crane her neck to look down at her.  "Welcome," she greeted, smiling warmly as she idly shuffled her deck.  There was something oddly satisfying about the sound the cards made as they rhythmically slapped and slid against one another, like clockwork.

"What sort of question is on your mind?"

On 8/21/2019 at 5:32 AM, Randimaxis said:

[I plan to take a vacation soon, but I don't want to plan it out - I want it to be spontaneous!  But, I'm worried about what might happen to me, or if I'll have any issues while I'm gone.  Is there any way I could ask you about what sort of readings you could get about how things will go for me IF I do this completely at a random whim?]

The mare considered this for a second, stopping her shuffling as she slid five cards off the top of her deck and laid them in a T-shaped formation, rotated 90 degrees counter-clockwise.  "Fate is not single linear string, it is more of a woven fabric, with many strings coming together.  As you try and follow one, you may get distracted and begin following another.  Let us follow this one path and see what the spirits have to say."  As she flipped over each card, she would be sure to give a description.

"Three of Pentacles.  This card carries the energy of a master craftsman and his pride in educating his apprentices in his art.  Is it wrong to assume that your worries are of a similar flavor to that of the artisan leaving his studio in the care of his underlings?  You take great pride in your work, but can you trust others to do the same without you to guide them?

"Page of Swords, inverted.  Often considered a diplomat, the Page is burdened by all she has seen and heard.  This makes her a great asset, but also a great threat, should she ever decide that she finds herself uncomfortable under your patronage.  To translate this into your personal life, it is possible that your critical tendencies wearing you thin?  Take a moment to look inside yourself, meditate on your worries, and rationalize them.

"Celestia, The Sun.  It is in our nature to love the light.  The drives away the darkness, preventing those things which may hurt us from hiding and sneaking up on us.  In its current position on the spread, this is a good omen.  There are no secret factors affecting the success of your spontaneous vacation, everything is under your control.

"Four of Swords.  In days of old, it was common practice to visit the tombs of your ancestors.  It was a solemn reminder of our mortality, and the importance of our actions while we were still able to perform them.  Though it isn't necessary to visit any tombs, this card suggests it would be of great benefit to you contemplate every possibility and eliminate those from your worries which are unlikely to come to fruition.

"Six of Swords, inverted.  This seems to be rather redundant, as most cards I have drawn today is saying the same thing. This card carries the energy of a navigator, someone who is educated in the stars and the waves.  He knows both equally well, and has it down to an exact science, and so long as he maintains his composure, the ship's course will remain true.  However, it appears he has lost his composure.  His negative emotions cloud his judgement, forcing him to lead the ship in a direction he prefers rather than the one he needs.  You should not make any hasty decisions until you know the facts."

Dahlia took a sip of her tea, leaving the cards to sit as she thought of the reading.  "Is there any part of the reading you felt does not apply to you?  I may not have interpreted it properly and will need to look further into it."

On 8/21/2019 at 5:28 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She didn't know exactly who or where this onlooker was, nor could she gauge Dax's reaction until they met, but she knew they were watching. She not so subtly pulled Dax closer to her, trying in her way to tell whoever was watching: This one's mine.

Low was quick to move back into cover, his heart pounding.  He had hoped to find Dax, and he most definitely did, but what he did not expect was that he would be in the company of mare, let alone one who was quite clearly very close to him.  He certainly wasn't about to interrupt the moment, assuming they were having a moment.  He wasn't about to look around the corner and check, risking being seen again.

He wasn't sure how to feel.  A part of him was distraught at this sudden development.  Had he always had forbidden feelings for a stallion who was already spoken for, or was he simply being out-competed?  He knew what Carnelian would have said, and he knew that if he truly wanted him, he had his work cut out for him.  However, there was another part of him that was strangely relieved.  It took him a while to think on it, but all of this anxiety he had felt around Dax...it only ever came up whenever he felt the need to pressure himself to pursue his attentions.  Was he a coward for allowing this stallion to slip away, or was it a sign of maturity that he was accepting that which he couldn't have?

"Perhaps we should...give them some time," he whispered to Beck.  "Perhaps I should return to Miss Carnelian.  This question can wait."  Already his thoughts were rebelling against him.  Which side of this internal civil war was the right one?  Was he throwing away something wonderful?  Carnelian would know, she always had an answer, even if they weren't often to his liking.

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 9/1/2019 at 4:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I were done an hour ago I think, but then we started talking about fun things, then Silver put a magic thing on my wings, and then I took a fun ride on them as they went all bouncy. Hehehe, it was so much Fun! Like clinging to the tail of a running timberwolf."

Luther lifted an eyebrow at her comment.  Clinging to a Timberwolf's tail... is fun? 

The Blackwater patriarch pondered this silently as Blitz continued.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 4:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"And you got your own explosions area? I did too in the Everfree Forest. A place with lots of gravel. Real safe place with lotsa open room, and nothing to set on fire. A peak sounds more fun though. All flat terrain's booooooring."

This, he could speak about.

"The testing ground is a plateau, and surrounded on three sides by natural rock walls.  The fourth side leads to open sky.  There will be no danger there.  When dynamite sits in storage too long, a stick is brought here for testing."

When he was younger, Luther himself had been the one responsible for testing possibly dud sticks; the massive force of each eplosion could be felt through his hooves, and it was a sensation he actually rather liked.  Granted, he wouldn't be gallivanting Equestria and blowing things to kingdom come for no reason... yet, when he got the chance, he always preferred to be closer to the explosions than father from them.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 4:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I think you're gonna find it reeeeal fun, Dax-Dad. Not sure what the force-thingies and stuff that smarty ponies like Silver knows all about, but I judge on what it does to rocks. Big ones, like a boulder the size of three of you, just one standing on the other."

"Small dynamite explodes the rock. Medium one should be strong enough to pulverize it. And the big one... I dunno. I never made one that full of really good kaboom before. Sorta guessing it'll leave a crater. Or a cave. I gots some fun things in my workshop back in the forest that I used to make caves into mountains with. Then Mayor Mare asked for them. Said it were reeeeally important. Dunno what she's doing with them, but I haven't seen new craters anywhere. Perhaps she sent them off to another place?"

He turned to her.

"More likely she was afraid of what you might do with it - though maybe not intentionally.  She may have just wanted to get it away from you."  He reached up and brushed off a small particle of glitter from his vest.  "I can understand why," he said with a fleeting glance at the little powderkeg.

"No matter.  We are here."

The area was as he'd said it would be: a generously-sized plateau of rock and dirt, with three rock walls jutting up from the ground, making a natural barrier between this mountaintop and the quarry.  Each of the walls was scorched and blast-scarred, but held firmly.  The fourth side simply wasn't there - but what a view!  From here, Blitz could see what felt like forever... at least, until her vision couldn't discern any more landmarks.

The area was arranged like a blast-bowl, as any debris or such would be caught by the three walls, or catapulted out into the air, quite a way beyond anything on the ground that could be damaged.  There were a few largr boulders here, but they all were lying against the rock walls, as if pushed there and left to their own devices.

"Start small; show me what you've done."

He motioned to the middle of the area, and stepped back to observe.  Silver nervously stepped over to Blitz and whispered, "Okay, what do I do now?  Just tell me what you need, and I'll do my best to get it done."  She smiled broadly.

 

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Three of Pentacles.  This card carries the energy of a master craftsman and his pride in educating his apprentices in his art.  Is it wrong to assume that your worries are of a similar flavor to that of the artisan leaving his studio in the care of his underlings?  You take great pride in your work, but can you trust others to do the same without you to guide them?

The little mailmare nodded, her brow furrowing slightly as it seemed like she was taking this in as seriously as she could.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Page of Swords, inverted.  Often considered a diplomat, the Page is burdened by all she has seen and heard.  This makes her a great asset, but also a great threat, should she ever decide that she finds herself uncomfortable under your patronage.  To translate this into your personal life, it is possible that your critical tendencies wearing you thin?  Take a moment to look inside yourself, meditate on your worries, and rationalize them.

She gave a slight sigh, then nodded again, making the 'continue on' motion with her hoof.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Celestia, The Sun.  It is in our nature to love the light.  The drives away the darkness, preventing those things which may hurt us from hiding and sneaking up on us.  In its current position on the spread, this is a good omen.  There are no secret factors affecting the success of your spontaneous vacation, everything is under your control.

This news made her smile, and breathe a soft sigh of relief.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Four of Swords.  In days of old, it was common practice to visit the tombs of your ancestors.  It was a solemn reminder of our mortality, and the importance of our actions while we were still able to perform them.  Though it isn't necessary to visit any tombs, this card suggests it would be of great benefit to you contemplate every possibility and eliminate those from your worries which are unlikely to come to fruition.

She pondered a moment, then scribbled on her pad before showing it to Dahlia. 

[So think about what's going on, and get rid of the worries I feel won't happen during my trip?  That sounds like sage advice!]

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Six of Swords, inverted.  This seems to be rather redundant, as most cards I have drawn today is saying the same thing. This card carries the energy of a navigator, someone who is educated in the stars and the waves.  He knows both equally well, and has it down to an exact science, and so long as he maintains his composure, the ship's course will remain true.  However, it appears he has lost his composure.  His negative emotions cloud his judgement, forcing him to lead the ship in a direction he prefers rather than the one he needs.  You should not make any hasty decisions until you know the facts."

Taps looked... particularly worried about this, and seemed to be lost in thought for a moment or two after the reading.

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Is there any part of the reading you felt does not apply to you?  I may not have interpreted it properly and will need to look further into it."

The little blue mare jumped as if shocked by static electricity, and even gave a slight blush as she realized where she was and whom she was with.  After a moment, more scribbling on her notepad before presenting it to Dahlia once again.

[Not so much as 'does not apply', but all the same, what you seem to be saying is that I'm overanxious, though I can have a wonderful vacation as long as I don't let things overwhelm me, or allow things I shouldn't be concerned with occupy my head.  I think I needed to hear that.  But I'm curious; what would YOUR in-depth interpretation be?]

She sat back and regarded the seer with her mismatched eyes.

 

 

On 8/21/2019 at 8:28 PM, Illiad Easle said:

What is this? A stallion confused, who's feelings reach... Is this why Dax wasn't so enthusiastic?

This one's mine.

Dax, oblivious as to Key's presence, suddenly found himself closer to Mystic than he'd ever expected.  He may not have understood what prompted such an action, but whatever it was, he wanted to salute it - Mystic's coat was warm, soft and inviting, and so very, very smooth.

Not questioning nor attempting to break free, Dax put on his most adorable sheepish grin and leaned into her a bit as well. 

No sense in letting HER have all the fun, he thought.

"Okay," he grinned, "we can start at the mines; the head forepony should be out there, and we can work our way around the quarry.  C'mon!"

Dax began an enthusiastic trot, making sure she stayed even with him as he began making his way toward the quarry yard.

 

 

On 9/1/2019 at 6:31 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Perhaps we should...give them some time... Perhaps I should return to Miss Carnelian.  This question can wait."

Beck gave Key a curious look, then shot a glance at Dax and Mystic.  He wasn't exactly certain why, but the mood had most certainly changed... and Beck wasn't sure it was for the better.  Nonetheless, Master Key did want to be taken to his patron, and Beck was obliged to follow orders.

However, he did turn back and give another glance at Dax and his company... wondering what was going on as he led the young master towards the garage entrance into the manor.  In fact, after a minute of walking, he asked, "Master Key, you so seem... preoccupied.  Mentally.  Might I inquire as to what has dampened your spirits so?"

 

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Hazard Time

Mystic felt a little bad...

At how much she enjoyed the mystery suitor's despair at her antics.

@Randimaxis

She was a bit surprised at Dax's loving response, which further twinged her conscience. Maybe I was a bit harsh, I don't need to scare them off. I just need to be the best so he would choose me over them, rather than leaving him with no other choice. She resolved that she'd seek out the mystery pony later to speak amicably.

Her ears perked up at Dax's mention of their first potential friend, "That would be Mister List right? The Vice Consul mentioned his... interesting, tastes in food." With a renewed smile on her face she happily followed right at Dax's side, certain that nothing would get between them or ruin their time together.

She looked out at the quarry as they trotted along, connecting what she saw with what Illiad had told her, So many things to see, creatures to meet, it's a good thing I have plenty of time to do it all.

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Randimaxis

On 9/26/2019 at 12:57 AM, Randimaxis said:

"More likely she was afraid of what you might do with it - though maybe not intentionally.  She may have just wanted to get it away from you."  He reached up and brushed off a small particle of glitter from his vest.  "I can understand why," he said with a fleeting glance at the little powderkeg.

"No matter.  We are here."

"....Heeeeey, you're right. Sneaky Mayor Mare tricked me? I'd prank her So hard, if she hadn't made me promise not to do a prank war in town again either. I bet she were waiting just for this. Tricky mare wins again."

Why hadn't she thought of this before? Mayor Mare were gonna have to answer for this! She'd demand like... Two muffins for this before she'd forgive her. With extra sprinkles. That seemed like it'd be fair, right? Blitz didn't hate the mayor after all, she were just wanting an apology for the trickery tricking. If the mayor had just asked for them and told her it were because she were concerned about Blitz having these, the filly would have given them over all the same. She didn't want to make others feel bad after all (unless they were bullies, in which case they totally deserved some trickery stuff) and she totally got that those things were too dangerous in case somepony accidentally wandered in when it went off.

Oh well, something to focus on later, because right now, they were here! At their fun area.

Sure it didn't look like much, but that were the best part: Less things that could be set on fire (though everything could theoretically burn if you tried hard enough) and less accidental projectiles, which were sometimes an issue where Blitz usually tested her explosives. It even looked like it had protective barriers! This were definitely not he last time she'd be up here to test something explodey, though she wondered how they'd react once this place started to get all colorful, from the varied sorts of things she tended to mix into her stuff?

...Eh, who cared? That time, that sorrow. Or party. Or something else. Who had time to think on that, when it were explodey time!

On 9/26/2019 at 12:57 AM, Randimaxis said:

He motioned to the middle of the area, and stepped back to observe.  Silver nervously stepped over to Blitz and whispered, "Okay, what do I do now?  Just tell me what you need, and I'll do my best to get it done."  She smiled broadly.

"Help me get a boulder over here. The bestest way to test how something reacts when it goes boom, is to explode it!"

Blitz had strong magic for her age, as she were smarter than the average filly, but at the same time, she were still just a filly, and those boulders looked heavy. She'd need help if they were to get over there fast.

Soon as one were in place, she'd go over, and use her horn to drill a hole into it, where she'd then place the small stick of dynamite all safe and snugly. After it were secure, she'd light a small ember at the end of her horn, and with a foalish giggle, would light the fuse and scurry away from there and back to a safe range with the others.

The small stick would do as expected. The boulder would explode, sending pebbles blasting to all sides, and leaving a small pile where it stood.

After cleaning that up and preparing the second one, that too proved correct, with the explosion sending only a few pebbles off, whilst leaving the majority as a pile of pale dust and coarse grain where it stood.

The interesting one for Blitz, were going to be the last one. The big explosive. So after setting that up. she turned to Silver and Luther with anticipation and excitement painted over her happy, dusty little face. She liked to see the explosions, so she tended to get blasted with some dust at the very least more often than not. Got kinda messy, but in her defense, she needed to see how it'd turn out, so she knew what to potentially change the next time around. Plus the blast wave were fun to get blown back a little by. Like standing in a real stiff breeze for a bit, but with a burning smell.

"Those two were fun, but this right here's gonna be the Real fun one, since I dunno what's gonna happen. Whatever it is, it's gonna be a humongous kaboom! Ehehehe."

Bouncing over without a care in the world, Blitz went over to light this one too, then ran further away than she had before, and semi-hid behind Luther and Silver, though making sure she could still see what were going on, even if she had to crouch beneath their tummies to get a proper view.

This new explosion would make the former one pale in comparison. Soon as the fuse had gotten to the bottom, and the varied powder inside started to ignite and fire off, a chain of events happened, begning with the boulder being reduced to dust by an explosion, before another explosion in rapid succession blasted said dust off, obscuring the area completely, obscuring all but the light of the third explosion, that would give off a thunderous kaboom! As well as a rather powerful blast, that would push strongly at them, as if they were in a raging storm. If they were at an angle where that were possible of course.

Soon as they'd be able to see something again, they should be able to see the results of this explosive, which were highly unlikely to have not left a mark on the blasting site.

Blitz had originally intended that this big stick were gonna be just stuffed and readied for explosion like the others, but she had sorta run into a fun idea that she used in the cave blasters a little too, and added small rooms within the casing with varied layers of the explosive compound, and separated by pretty strong parts, that she had hoped would manage to take the first wave whilst the powder beneath that were would warm up and fire off it's own load, ending in the big payload at the end. The casing were stronger than her usual ones, so it were were easier to contain, but she also didn't have the varied powders that exploded at each their own temperature like she had in the Everfree Forest, so there had been some plusses, and some minuses, that her excited mind at the time had thought had to be tested.

Honestly, she hadn't been sure if everything weren't just gonna go off at once and just let out an explosion that'd pulverize the blasting site, or something else like that, but it seemed not, so yey, success! Now it were just to see what the damages were like, and if Dax-Dad were impressed by her work. Silver too, of course, but Luther had been the one who really needed to see this, so his opinion were super important.

[Hazard Time 1,127]

On 9/25/2019 at 3:57 PM, Sixamidnar said:

[Not so much as 'does not apply', but all the same, what you seem to be saying is that I'm overanxious, though I can have a wonderful vacation as long as I don't let things overwhelm me, or allow things I shouldn't be concerned with occupy my head.  I think I needed to hear that.  But I'm curious; what would YOUR in-depth interpretation be?]

Dahlia hesitated, thinking to herself.  "Well, divination through tarot can be ambiguous at times.  So long as you are satisfied with the reading and feel it is relevant to what you have experienced, then there is no need to look deeper.  In the event that I do, however, it will be a while, perhaps a day or so of meditation to truly ponder the meaning of the cards."

On 9/25/2019 at 3:57 PM, Sixamidnar said:

"Master Key, you so seem... preoccupied.  Mentally.  Might I inquire as to what has dampened your spirits so?"

Low looked one way then the other, glancing nervously about to find if there were others.  Satisfied, he leaned in closer and began to whisper.

"I guess it was obvious something was perturbing me," he chuckled anxiously.  "Miss Carnelian did always say that I wore my emotions on my sleeve.  In any case, perhaps you would be the best stallion at the moment to ask."  He took a deep breath, looked around once more, then returned.

"I...fancy Dax.  I enjoy being around him, I enjoy listening to him speak, I enjoy seeing the interest and passion on his face, and his smile..."  The unicorn began to smile wistfully before he shook himself out of his daydreams.  "Apologies.  I just...I do not know where to begin.  Should I tell him how I feel?  What if he says yes?  He does not share my nobility, so Miss Carnelian will frown on that, and what is more, a relationship such as ours will not produce heirs, which is what my family requires.  Though if he were to decline...oh Celestia help me, what if he is offended by my advances?"  Low began to pace back and forth, staring at the ground as he vented his anxieties, rambling on and on before he once more caught himself.  He flushed a deep red as he smiled apologetically at Beck.  "I...I apologize if this is a topic you find uncomfortable, I was simply hoping you may have some counsel for me in this matter."

[Randimaxis 8,633]

On 9/26/2019 at 11:51 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"That would be Mister List right? The Vice Consul mentioned his... interesting, tastes in food."

Dax looked a bit surprised at first, yet a smile of understanding slowly drew out onto his muzzle.

"I keep forgetting that you've probably talked with Illiad about a lot of things... e-especially, uhm..." he blushed, "... heh heh... me, I suppose.  But that means you already know much of what's here - so now, it's a matter of putting actual sights with it!  I remember feeling the same way about seeing all the stuff he talked about in his letters to me - it was so fascinating, seeing those things firsthoof.  I guess I'm in the same place as Illiad was!"

As they made their way down toward the quarry grounds, the sights all around were active and varied.  Even if it was only the quarry grounds, it was as busy as any marketplace in Troy.  There were a number of folks around them, all occupied with their own activities and jobs, all engaged in whatever it was they were supposed to be doing.  The atmosphere was one of industrious fervor, and even as Dax and his zebra comrade passed them, only a few curious glances were spared to them before those glancing returned to their own work.

It was only a few minutes before the two of them had made their way through the quarry yard and around to the rise that led to the entrance to the Blackwater Mine.  However, before they could begin making progress up the slope, a voice called out to them both:

"Dax!  Yo, Daxie!  Hey!"

Not far from the beaten path, there stood a purple stallion with blue patches on his knees, a jester's cap for a cutie mark, and an excited look in his eyes.  As Dax stopped, he began to trot his way over to them both.  The Blackwater looked back and smiled.  "Hey, Slapper!"  He motioned to the oncoming pony, smiling at Mystic.  "That's Knee Slapper - he's one of the foreponies here, and he's also a really good buddy.  He's a bit of a practical joker, but he's still a nice fella!"

"Nice of you to say, Daxie," Slapper said as he strolled up to them both.  He gave Mystic a once-over, then turned and grinned at Dax.  "Heeeeeeyyyyyy... would this happen to be..?"

Dax grinned.  "Eeyup!  Knee Slapper, meet my zebra friend - Mystic Glow!"  He swept a hoof towards her, presenting her with a bow.

Slapper gave a bit of a mischievous smirk.  "Y'know, even though you went on for a good bit about her, you never once mentioned that she was such a beauty!"  He chuckled, then bowed to her as well.  "Nice to finally meetcha, ma'am - and I'm glad to see that Dax has some good taste in fillies!"  He grinned, then leaned in close to Dax, speaking low and carefully.

"Hey, uh, Dax... I have a question for ya, buddy... is there any chance that, y'know, I might be able to use the garden-area-thing tonight?  Where the statues are?"

Dax blinked at the sudden change in attitude, but seemed not to be alarmed by such.  "Uhm... you mean Chisel's Statuary Garden?  I... well, I guess so... I mean, nobody else has any plans for it tonight, but... Slapper, why do you want to use the garden?"

Knee smiled.  "Let's just say you're not the only one around here who has a cute friend they wanna get to know better."

Dax blushed DEEPLY.  "Uhm, well... I g-g-guess so, I mean... I d-don't see why it w-w-would be any issue, er... I j-just..."

Slapper chuckled, then reached over and tousled Dax's mane.  "Thanks, kiddo - I knew you'd be okay with it, I just wanted to be sure.  Plus, I mean..." he glanced at Mystic again, "it's not like there isn't anyplace else in the quarry that's, y'know, romantic enough, right?"  He tossed a wink at Mystic as Dax's blush deepened.

 

 

On 10/5/2019 at 3:04 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Help me get a boulder over here. The bestest way to test how something reacts when it goes boom, is to explode it!"

Luther made his way over to the boulder that Blitz had selected and placed his shoulder against it.  When he gave a shove, the massive rock actually moved!  Though it was bigger than he was, Luther seemed to have not a single issue in shoving it bodily over to the testing site.  Though cords of rock-hard muscle stood out on him, the elder stallion showed not the first sign of strain; Luther was powerful!

Silver, on the other hoof, began to busy herself with clearing the blast site of anything that might become an incidental ballistic missile when explosives went off; rocks and debris were enveloped in Silver's magic as they were lifted and dropped off the side of the mountain, clearing the way for Luther to shove the doomed rock into position.  Once securely in place, the Blackwater patriarch stepped back to allow Blitz room to operate.

The first test went smoothly enough, and Luther nodded at the results.  The second test only echoed the first, and got another approving nod from the stalwart stallion.

The third...

When the dust and smoke cleared away, what was left behind was something to think about; the mountain itself, beneath the blasting site, now had a huge crack running through it!  There was a bowl of pulverized stone where the flat ground used to be, and the massive crack in the stone extended out past the natural barrier walls (which were also cracked and damaged) and down the side of the mountain itself.  It was as if a humongous hammer had been slammed down onto the mountaintop, and whoever had held that hammer had been angry!

Luther coughed some dust out of his lungs, then simply stared for a moment at the damage done.  He then calmly removed his spectacles, wiped them carefully with a cloth from his vest pocket, replaced them on his muzzle and turned to face Blitz Boom.

"That was... impressive.  I have never seen such force in an explosive before."  He then looked to Silver.  "If she wants to be an apprentice, she may.  Exclusive to you, and you alone."  Silver nodded, visibly excited but keeping herself as calm as possible in front of her boss; doubtless, there was a massive hug in Blitz's future.

He then slowly walked over, and leaned down to give Blitz a firm look, right in the eyes, his brow furrowing as he spoke slowly and clearly.  "But no more random fireworks on my quarry grounds without permission.  Or warning.  Understood?"

 

 

 

On 10/13/2019 at 10:43 PM, Hazard Time said:

"Well, divination through tarot can be ambiguous at times.  So long as you are satisfied with the reading and feel it is relevant to what you have experienced, then there is no need to look deeper.  In the event that I do, however, it will be a while, perhaps a day or so of meditation to truly ponder the meaning of the cards."

Taps nodded vigorously... but the energy of the nod died swiftly as it became a sigh.  She returned to her notepad and wrote, only hesitantly showing it to Dahlia.

[I have to confess - I actually cannot afford to take a vacation.  At all.  However, the thought that one day I might helps to keep me going - and it IS a fun fantasy to indulge in from time to time.  I apologize if this was a waste of your time, but I wanted to see what all the fuss was about with your caravan here, and I must admit you do make quite an impression!  Besides, if I was actually able to take a vacation, I'd be glad to have gotten some advice from you; you seem wise beyond your years as you read your cards.]

She gave a sheepish little smile, then added a few lines to the current page.

[If I may ask, what is it like for the two of you, being on the road and free to do as you wish?  I've not had a chance to be my own mare for quite some time, and I'm curious as to how it feels?]

 

 

On 10/13/2019 at 10:43 PM, Hazard Time said:

"I guess it was obvious something was perturbing me.  Miss Carnelian did always say that I wore my emotions on my sleeve.  In any case, perhaps you would be the best stallion at the moment to ask."

Beck lifted an eyebrow, yet waited patiently and looked quite willing to listen.

On 10/13/2019 at 10:43 PM, Hazard Time said:

"I...fancy Dax.  I enjoy being around him, I enjoy listening to him speak, I enjoy seeing the interest and passion on his face, and his smile... Apologies.  I just...I do not know where to begin.  Should I tell him how I feel?  What if he says yes?  He does not share my nobility, so Miss Carnelian will frown on that, and what is more, a relationship such as ours will not produce heirs, which is what my family requires.  Though if he were to decline...oh Celestia help me, what if he is offended by my advances?" 

"I...I apologize if this is a topic you find uncomfortable, I was simply hoping you may have some counsel for me in this matter."

Beck listened attentively, yet gave a small smile as Key spoke his heart.  Once he was done, the butler pony gave a slight chuckle.

"Actually, believe it or not, a romantic interest in stallions is something that both you and my own brother have in common.  As is such, the subject is hardly any discomfort for me - in fact, it's somewhat refreshing to find Call isn't alone in his thoughts.  There are so very few who care to openly admit to such feelings, and I, for one, am pleased to see that more who feel such a way are beginning to step forward."

"As for Master Dax?  Well," he grew a thoughtful look, "I do not recall him ever expressing any interest in romance before his adventure in Troy - aside from his 'supposedly' secret crush on Princess Luna... though, interestingly, that seems to have faded away since his return from his trip abroad.  Still, I would daresay that the subject of orientation has merely never been broached by Master Dax before.  Indeed, he had only recently been even seemingly interested in such a thing as romance... and that had been his expressed enthusiasm for a young zebra mare he had met during his travels.  I believe it possible that it may have been the very filly you and I witnessed him with, mere moments ago."

His smile grew kind and soft.  "That notwithstanding, I would say that there's a good possibility that Master Dax has not even considered the idea of a relationship with a stallion - not to say he would be adverse to it, but more as though he has simply never been approached in such a manner.  I would actually give the advice that, should you feel it in your heart to ask him of such a thing, then you most certainly should.  Granted, he's been brought up his entire life being told he had to have a family in order to continue the Blackwater line... but honestly?  The heart wants what it wants," he blushed a bit himself, "be it mare, stallion..." his eyes grew distant and longing, "or a pegasus/zebra hybrid."

He shook his thoughts clear and continued.  "I would say to pursue the desires of your heart, but be prepared for a possible rejection.  Knowing Master Dax, it won't be a harsh one, and he would most likely wish to still have you as his friend, so I wouldn't worry about hard feelings... but Master Key, it would be a far greater tragedy to have never known for certain if your feelings were returned than to ask and discover for yourself.  One should never be afraid to speak their heart - it is, after all, the thing that beats to keep us alive.  Is not love a product of typical intelligent life?"

He carefully placed a hoof on Key's shoulder.  "Follow your heart, Master Key.  Even if you don't win Dax's love for yourself, you will most certainly have a friend for life in him - as HE wears his emotions on his sleeve as you do.  And if you DO win his heart, then you'll know it was meant to be."  

He then gave a slight chuckle.  "But you do have your work cut out for you, Master Key - that zebra is quite a looker, if I may be so bold."

 

 

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Sixamidnar

Mystic had sensed Knee's approach, or rather noticed the lack of sense in his area as he approached them. She remembered Illiad warning her about his presence, but she still opted to be wary until he showed himself, lack of presence wasn't a unique trait to him after all.

When he called out to them she relaxed inwardly, he at least looked like the one she had been told about, and she was confident she could hold her own if he turned out not to be.

7 hours ago, Sixamidnar said:

"Y'know, even though you went on for a good bit about her, you never once mentioned that she was such a beauty!"

She blushed a bit as she returned his bow in kind, "Charmed, it's a pleasure to meet you too."

7 hours ago, Sixamidnar said:

"Let's just say you're not the only one around here who has a cute friend they wanna get to know better."

Her blush came mostly in surprise at Slapper's forwardness, though it was nothing compared to Dax's own. Her smile grew as she saw it, He IS interested then! I'll have to ask after this statue garden later...

7 hours ago, Sixamidnar said:

"it's not like there isn't anyplace else in the quarry that's, y'know, romantic enough, right?"

She chuckled at his teasing of Dax, knowing it was in good humor. "I've found anywhere can be romantic if it's with someone you love, though private moments are most often found in private places to be sure."

She looked as if an idea struck her, "Oh! If he hasn't already seen you, the Vice Consul said he had an important matter to discus with you the next time he comes up." She waved a hoof, "I won't ask about what, but do look out for him when he does get up here again." Though if I had to guess, it's most definitely about that Silver mare he mentioned so frequently. I wonder when I'll meet her?

A slightly more mischievous thought entered her mind as she nuzzled Dax to whisper in his ear in full view of Slapper. "He's going to tease you for this, but you're really cute when you blush."

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Sixamidnar

On 10/17/2019 at 8:20 PM, Sixamidnar said:

Luther made his way over to the boulder that Blitz had selected and placed his shoulder against it.  When he gave a shove, the massive rock actually moved!  Though it was bigger than he was, Luther seemed to have not a single issue in shoving it bodily over to the testing site.  Though cords of rock-hard muscle stood out on him, the elder stallion showed not the first sign of strain; Luther was powerful!

Waaauv. Dax-Dad were stronger then he looked, and he already looked like he could munch on rocks! It looked sorta like he got strained from all those cords on him, but then again, this were a big rock, and it were the only thing shown, so perhaps she were wrong? Not a whole lot of ponies she hung around in Ponyville were big on muscles or moving heavy stuff, so Blitz didn't have a whole lot of experience in this sort of thing. She had observed Big Mac a few times looked a bit strained, but he got sweaty, with shaking legs and everything. And that were just from moving a big cake or pull a plow through some tough dirt. This rock were Way heavier and more troublesome to lumber than that.

Hmm... Might be that this were just Luther's muscles showing when he put some force into it? Best bet since he didn't looked strained, though it did make her wonder: What sorta thing could he move that Would make him look like it were tough? Two rocks at once? Nah, he could probably do that. It'd have to be like... Three rocks, and a big cake. That might make him sweat, though she bet he'd still be able to do it.

Hehe, she definitely had to check if Dax were as strong as his dad at some point. That might be fun, and super valuable too. This place had a lot of heavy stuff from what she'd seen, and she might need help moving something sometimes, for... Reasons.

On 10/17/2019 at 8:20 PM, Sixamidnar said:

When the dust and smoke cleared away, what was left behind was something to think about; the mountain itself, beneath the blasting site, now had a huge crack running through it!  There was a bowl of pulverized stone where the flat ground used to be, and the massive crack in the stone extended out past the natural barrier walls (which were also cracked and damaged) and down the side of the mountain itself.  It was as if a humongous hammer had been slammed down onto the mountaintop, and whoever had held that hammer had been angry!

Blitz had hid beneath Luther when the explosion went off, thinking he was the safest haven to be sheltering behind, seeing as how he were all big and strong. And she were right! He hadn't moved at all, even when the dust blasted over them, which sadly obscured the view of the beautiful explosion. But that sound... Oh dear, sweet Celestia, that thunderous boom made her heart flutter and dance.

The intensity of the blast blowing over her, even sheltered as she were, combined with a sound as if the heavens had opened up and yelled down at them, made her feel a joy the likes of which she couldn't remember ever feeling before. Sure she had been happy and giddy when making new explosions, clearing the roads, seeing how happy her fireworks made some of the other foals, etc. But this were on a whole new level, even if her entire front got covered in dust as she hadn't been hiding That well. She had to try and spot her handy-work after all, to see how it did and learn from the results.

As the dust settled, she'd stagger forward a little, and look over the damages with a big, intoxicated smile plastered over her dusty little face.

This had been big. as in Really big. The blasting site had severe, potentially permanent damages, as the explosion had left not only a crater, but a large crack going through the mountain itself. Not even her tunnel blasters had ever done something like this before! *gasp* That meant this was a new record!

Before the realization settled in fully, and she'd end up running around all giddy and proud at the same time, Luther would start to address her, and she'd turn to face his big, muscular face. Normally she'd been telling him that she were sorry that his mountain had gotten hurt, but there were just too much joy in her being to feel sorry right now. She might start to tell him that later, once the bad side of all of this had started to register with her, but currently, she just couldn't muster a single, negative view on this whole thing and just looked up at him like he were Santa Hooves himself, here to tell her that she had been a good filly all year, and therefor brought her a furnace.

On 10/17/2019 at 8:20 PM, Sixamidnar said:

"That was... impressive.  I have never seen such force in an explosive before."  He then looked to Silver.  "If she wants to be an apprentice, she may.  Exclusive to you, and you alone."  Silver nodded, visibly excited but keeping herself as calm as possible in front of her boss; doubtless, there was a massive hug in Blitz's future.

He then slowly walked over, and leaned down to give Blitz a firm look, right in the eyes, his brow furrowing as he spoke slowly and clearly.  "But no more random fireworks on my quarry grounds without permission.  Or warning.  Understood?"

She weren't sure if it were just her state of mind right now, but Luther sure looked a whole lot kinder and prouder than he did before. Getting all close with his determined eyes and spoke in clear words - obviously because he were afraid the explosion had made her ears tingle, duh - as he told her that she were allowed to stay and work with Silver, long as she promised not to do stuff like firing off rockets at the big house again.

Why were ponies so nervous about this stallion, whenever she had asked others about the Blackwater's on her way to the quarry? He were just a big, tough looking teddy bear of a pony. Not always showing a whole lot of emotions, but right now, he were positively beaming at her. Hehe, he must be so happy to have her there to help. Just like Dax had been. And Silver were. And the butlers definitely weren't.

So as he to her looked like he were just acting out a bit of a line that shouldn't be crossed, but otherwise were as happy as a clam, she rose up as he asked if she understood, and gave him a big hug. Right on his face.

"I promise I won't make anything go boom without you knowing, Dax-Dad. And I'll bring the most shiny, bestest things to you first, every time."

After he'd undoubtedly dislodge the dusty face-hugger sooner or later, she'd end up looking up at him like a happy little puppy until he'd make his departure. Silver would likely find a good chance to hug the docile filly at that point, and end up releasing the beast from her enthralled trance.