private Deep Science 1x1 with Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

On 2021-03-05 at 12:01 PM, Blitz Boom said:

she would send a weary look towards the opening, which lead to the half pony, half machine, who had now finally met her end.

The area in question was dimmed from the previous day, gone was the flashing advertisement of the reward for beating the game, but the cabinet was still there with an out of order sign covering the screen.

On 2021-03-05 at 12:01 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Epsilon. Ambassador Dove and you were going to make connections, so we're here to sort out any small details, like contact information. Isn't always safe to walk around. Especially not since I've been hearing whispers you have a gang problem in town."

Epsilon looked a little disappointed, "Is that all? Well, yes. There are dangerous paths in this city, but the main roads, the ones that go from the outer walls to the central plaza, are generally the safest. If they stay on those roads they should be safe enough, especially if accompanied by a guard. I or my father are here almost all the time when we aren't meeting with Grey in the Stacked Deck, but those meetings are few and far between, so they shouldn't cause an issue. As to tha gang problem,"

Epsilon leaned back in her chair, "It's not the most dangerous thing, it was far worse before we took control. Now each gang owes allegiance to one of the central casinos, each stays in their sector, for the most part, and supplement the guard in keeping the criminal element to a minimum. Smaller gangs pop up from time to time, and the loyal ones kick them out before they can cause too much trouble, or the new gang rises up to take over the old gang's place. As long as you avoid the middle grounds and don't get too close to any of them you'll be plenty safe."

She leaned forward with a prodding expression, "But that's not what you're here for is it? You've got more questions than that, ones that aren't simply professional? Like how you want me to keep my hooves off your colt?" She chuckled, "Don't deny it, I've seen how you look at him. You were much more concerned about him than you were for the ambassador at the party. Don't worry, I'll leave him to you. You two are so cute together anyway."

(Troy)

Selena contemplated what Vale said, "Hmm... remember, helping them adjust to others is only part of the reason we're keeping them here. The other reason is to keep anyone from seeing them and getting the wrong idea about who they are. Hence why I asked about your mother, she seems like one who could be trusted to say nothing, and perhaps not even recognize who they look like. But if you think a dentist would be easier for them then I'll see about finding one who can be trusted and have them come by tomorrow to see how they're doing, and maybe the next day have your mother or a dedicated pediatrician take a look at them depending on how they react to the first one."

She nodded, "We've been looking through possible adoptive families, there's no shortage of parents who've lost foals or sent them alone on the Æther thinking that they themselves would not survive long after it left. When do you think they'd be ready to be homed? Several months? Maybe a year or two? The older ones might want to remain independent together, but the younger two deserve a good home."

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

19 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

She leaned forward with a prodding expression, "But that's not what you're here for is it? You've got more questions than that, ones that aren't simply professional? Like how you want me to keep my hooves off your colt?" She chuckled, "Don't deny it, I've seen how you look at him. You were much more concerned about him than you were for the ambassador at the party. Don't worry, I'll leave him to you. You two are so cute together anyway."

Null met her stare as Epsilon said this. Her own though, were annoying, edging towards angry, and narrowing. Her stance also went from more neutral, towards more confrontational, with her head reaching forward, and a hoof vaguely being risen, as if she were about to walk forward.

Epsilon would also see that the beginning of a snare were forming on Null's muzzle, and reddening cheeks, which gave the overall attitude of something you didn't need to be good at reading others to understand. That being *Just who you think you are?*.

She were about to say something along those lines too, but clenched her jaws tightly, to try and keep it in. She could almost feel a metallic taste of blood in her muzzle, from biting down so hard, but it kept her from going into a big scorcher. Which would have happened. If she got started with Epsilon, she wouldn't leave here with a few hurt feelings. They were talking burned bridges, and salted ground. Metaphorically speak, of course.

"...Fine. I might have been a tiny bit jealous, or something, when you two were talking. It's not a big deal.

And we're just here to get the lines up between Dove an you, and make sure we don't need to start fighting to get out of a situation. The more secure we can get things, the less blood we gotta spill, and we all have better things to do, than deal with corpses and law enforcement. All that political talk you two are gonna deal with, to sort through some things, ain't for my ears. It's not my department, and I don't know what she exactly wants to know and hear. Maybe Arcade knows?"

This were her que to him, that he could pop in with something at least sounding official here. He might have some idea, and she were a mixture of embarrassed and annoyed right now, so her mind weren't in this mumbo jumbo. She'd continue once it became her turn again, or in case he had nothing to say. 

But fine. You want more questions? I have several. Like what the hay's going on in that building yesterday? The coward running it let his little lab pets break out, and slaughter through folks. Which his so called *guard* also took part in. There were bodies stacked up, and fire everywhere yesterday. And now, folks are lining up like sheep again? What's going on here? Because everything about that one that I've seen so far, tells me that he's a sleazy, manipulative little rode- Pony, and not to be trusted in the slightest."

It were perhaps a little less than diplomatic talk here, but she were getting edged here. Epsilon had thrown out a tidbit about Arcade and Null, that she wasn't too pleased about being discussed openly by this one, and then she just went on to add more fuel to the flame. Like saying that they were utilizing the gangs in town to run control? In theory it might work, but she didn't trust that were the case. Especially not when there were drugs involved. No society needed that poison freely available, and if they really ran control on this, to do something good, why not force them to cut that out? More likely it were just adding more goons for the Grey. And that name popping up again, were seriously not helping on her mood right now!

She had plenty she could say about the Grey, but she'd go off about other things first, unless they were brought up again. She might not get some nice words out by then if it were. Unless of course, Nine stopped her from speaking it. Weren't the first time he'd be doing that, so she wouldn't be bloody surprised.

(Troy)

20 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

"Hmm... remember, helping them adjust to others is only part of the reason we're keeping them here. The other reason is to keep anyone from seeing them and getting the wrong idea about who they are. Hence why I asked about your mother, she seems like one who could be trusted to say nothing, and perhaps not even recognize who they look like. But if you think a dentist would be easier for them then I'll see about finding one who can be trusted and have them come by tomorrow to see how they're doing, and maybe the next day have your mother or a dedicated pediatrician take a look at them depending on how they react to the first one."

"I don't think it will be that bad, since they're still distinctly their own selves. They're not looking exactly like them. And well... We could always dye their manes and tails more if it were. Still, are you sure that we can't just explain it away? I mean, there are a lot of ponies out there. Some of them will look like others, but with a few changes like color, or mane style. And they're all too young too.

But maybe you're right about the exposure... I'll talk with mom about it, and she'll decide. If she says yes, I'll make sure to talk to the foals about this too, and make sure they're ready. Take every precaution after that too, to make sure nothing bad happens. Perhaps you look into dentists, I go see if she's awake, or if not her, then dad to ask for his opinion on this, and then I come see you later, to let you know how they feel about this? Best case, we'll have a dentist ready when we'll eventually need it. And worst one, we'll just switch things around."

There were a lot of if's and but's here, yet her mom did have a say in this, and what Selena said did make some sense... So maybe it were best to talk with her. If she were still awake though, of course. Pregnancy wasn't exactly something that wouldn't leave you drained of energy, so it were hard to say right now.

21 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

She nodded, "We've been looking through possible adoptive families, there's no shortage of parents who've lost foals or sent them alone on the Æther thinking that they themselves would not survive long after it left. When do you think they'd be ready to be homed? Several months? Maybe a year or two? The older ones might want to remain independent together, but the younger two deserve a good home."

Then came this question, and her worries started to infect her again, as now it came down to something she had tried not to think about too much. And that were how eventually, they'd all be going away to other families. At least that was the way that things would optimally be, from the perspective of Selena.

"....T-This one isn't that simple to answer. Peal and Piecey are very attached to the others, and they to t-them. Ardee wants to s-see them grow up, so she would at the very least have to l-live in the area, and would want to see to them. The same goes for the others too, but she sounded e-especially focused on those two at the time. T-Teal and Toupé are even closer, and have practically taken care of them most times I've b-been watching. I don't think it would be e-easy, or even a good thing to try, and separate them.

And the little ones... They're u-used to having their siblings around them. Trying to take them away, and g-give them to strangers that they don't know... I d-don't think it would be good for them. At least not right now. It's not like t-they're so young that they won't remember the others.

If those two were to go to their own f-family, I think it's still i-important that the others gets to see the two small ones, and I w-won't let any of them go away, if I don't trust the ones wanting to adopt them are g-good parents. They've been t-through enough bad things, and if they went to s-someone neglecting, or even abusive... N-No, I don't want to think about that.

Elef is the one doing the best, since he's i-integrating among his own kind fast, but I w-won't rush them. We'll need time, and s-see how things goes. Starting with slowly integrating them around p-places, right? We can't have them adopted, and just sort of, h-hidden away, or something like that. I know personally what it's l-like to be in a family that's t-torn apart, and what it does to you. If we're doing t-this, we're doing it slowly, and in the r-right way. So I guess... Y-Yes, it will be a while."

Frankly, the thought of sending them out into the great unknown, and potentially splitting them up, to be sent away with potential parents who might even aim to move away once things were calmer out there? It were scaring her. She wanted to keep them close, and as happy as they could be. They deserved a family, and they were that for one another. Splitting them up and maybe have them never see one another again, were a cruel, horrible thing to do, and she wouldn't have them suffer through that, if she had a say in it. She'd build a home from scratch, and adopt them herself first, if she had to.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

Epsilon smirked at the rise she was able to get out of Null, but didn't push the matter any further, "All parties are interested in a minimum of deaths, we've already got a lacking population as it is. Vector and I'll go over sometime soon and set up a more formal meeting between Dove and my father, see where things go from there."

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

But fine. You want more questions? I have several. Like what the hay's going on in that building yesterday? The coward running it let his little lab pets break out, and slaughter through folks. Which his so called *guard* also took part in. There were bodies stacked up, and fire everywhere yesterday. And now, folks are lining up like sheep again? What's going on here? Because everything about that one that I've seen so far, tells me that he's a sleazy, manipulative little rode- Pony, and not to be trusted in the slightest."

Epsilon looked intrigued at the question, "That's more like it! So far as I understand it, the penthouse is full of a bunch of strange artifacts the Host had brought in from these ruins just outside of town. One of them gives the whole upper layer a sort of phoenix rejuvenation magic; anyone who dies during the party wakes up afterwards with no memory of having died, any damage is undone, and the cycle perpetuates. I wouldn't be surprised if one of the effects of so many exposures is why the Host is as... eccentric... as he is, maybe that's why Ninja Briar is as keen on killing as he is, there's virtually no consequences to it so long as the magic lasts. Regardless, you're quite correct. The Host isn't the most trustworthy, but he's in charge of the whole cloud district, so we have to cooperate with him, and so long as he had the phoenix magic he's not going to die and get replaced by an heir anytime soon."

She seemed happy to be talking about such things, "Anything else I can clarify to you?"

 

(Troy)

Selena nodded at all of Vale's points, "Were your parents not expecting I'd have offered them the opportunity to adopt all of them, but it wouldn't be right to steal their attention away from their newborn. We'll keep all that under advisement as we look ahead, and we'll bring in a specialist on the subject long before we make any serious considerations. You go talk to your mother and let me know as soon as you can whether they'll be examined physically or orally tomorrow. Are there any supplies that you're lacking? I hope the accommodations are adequate to them?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-08 at 5:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Epsilon looked intrigued at the question, "That's more like it! So far as I understand it, the penthouse is full of a bunch of strange artifacts the Host had brought in from these ruins just outside of town. One of them gives the whole upper layer a sort of phoenix rejuvenation magic; anyone who dies during the party wakes up afterwards with no memory of having died, any damage is undone, and the cycle perpetuates. I wouldn't be surprised if one of the effects of so many exposures is why the Host is as... eccentric... as he is, maybe that's why Ninja Briar is as keen on killing as he is, there's virtually no consequences to it so long as the magic lasts. Regardless, you're quite correct. The Host isn't the most trustworthy, but he's in charge of the whole cloud district, so we have to cooperate with him, and so long as he had the phoenix magic he's not going to die and get replaced by an heir anytime soon."

She seemed happy to be talking about such things, "Anything else I can clarify to you?"

"Safer than time magic I suppose, but I still don't think it's safe to work with. Life and death isn't something that's wise to meddle with constantly like that.  Before you know it, you'll end up with a horde of undead, or a bunch of beings trapped in a cycle of rapidly dying in horrible pain, just to be reborn and have to go through it over, and over, and over again. And yes, I've seen the latter before. Closest thing I think I've seen to what I thought Tartarus on earth would look like, before the gates opened up, and it got literal."

Wasn't because of a phoenix though... She thought. Frankly, she didn't know how these curses worked. She just knew that Void and her stumbled upon this temple where the surrounding settlements claimed there were constant screaming, and found a bunch of beings going through rapid, excruciating rot and decay, before dying, being returned to life, and doing it all over again. After... *helping* them, they found out that it were mostly locals, who had vanished over periods of a few years. They figured that maybe, them having helped giving them peace, and solving the mystery, the fillies would be welcomed openly in the area.

...Yeah, so that didn't happen... *sigh* But she had wasted enough time thinking about those treacherous mongrels as it were, and had better things to do than recapture the moment when it turned out that they got furious, since they had actively been luring sacrifices into that fate.

"As for Ninja, I trust him even less. I've met enough killers to know a trained one. Hopefully I can convince Dove to just go with written correspondence with those two, and keep the danger level down for her then. Either he's gonna keep flirting, or Ninja's gonna do something unspeakable.

*sigh* But there's not enough hours in the day to say what I'd want to about them. You wanna know what else I'm curious about? Well, start more security here. Saw a cart go by with a pony getting thrown in the back on the way here. Overheard them saying something about him going to be taken to some judges? Thought it were just some sort of regular law, albeit a little rough, but the way you're saying the casinos, gangs, and the Grey, of all creatures, are running things, I'm starting to think it's a nickname for someone who just shows up to execute you. This whole town's run like a messed up crime syndicate. Nothing against you, but the rest of the place is losing its shine. Only place that does seem like it did on face value thus far, is the bakery, and the changelings. The ones running the show ain't filling me with confidence that there's any other safe space here, than a locket box, three kilometers under the surface.

...And I guess, any good places to eat in town? Dove's looking for a place, and we're still scouting the perimeters, more or less."

(Troy)

On 2021-03-08 at 5:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Selena nodded at all of Vale's points, "Were your parents not expecting I'd have offered them the opportunity to adopt all of them, but it wouldn't be right to steal their attention away from their newborn. We'll keep all that under advisement as we look ahead, and we'll bring in a specialist on the subject long before we make any serious considerations. You go talk to your mother and let me know as soon as you can whether they'll be examined physically or orally tomorrow. Are there any supplies that you're lacking? I hope the accommodations are adequate to them?"

"M-Mom's got her own little one to take care of s-soon, so yeah. Best not to a-add more to that right now."

"Though I'm not having anything keeping me down like that."

The thought rushed through Void's head, and made her blush up substantially for a short while, and avoid looking at Selena for the time being. It had come out of nowhere, and rattled her a little, so she were trying to find her bearings as they talked on, about the other things that needed to be covered, when it came to the care of these adorable little scamps, that were just ripe for a good, solid mare to- Meep!

"U-U-Uhm... It's... I m-mean, I think we're h-handling things mostly. B-But we could use one or t-two toothbrushes s-specifically for Piecey and P-Peal. I w-wasn't able to find any e-earlier. And uhm... I-If we could get the o-oven working s-someday, that w-would eb good too. S-Some of them would r-really like to l-learn how to cook. Among o-other things, but it's a g-good way to start, r-right?"

She were not doing this overly well, but at least she were trying. That had to count for a little, though she honestly hoped she could just get along, and go talk to her parents really soon. Like, Now, if possible. The walk would her her fluster less, even if the little nagging thought were probably not going to leave her anytime soon. Especially not after how tonight had ended inside the home.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

You wanna know what else I'm curious about? Well, start more security here. Saw a cart go by with a pony getting thrown in the back on the way here. Overheard them saying something about him going to be taken to some judges? Thought it were just some sort of regular law, albeit a little rough, but the way you're saying the casinos, gangs, and the Grey, of all creatures, are running things, I'm starting to think it's a nickname for someone who just shows up to execute you. This whole town's run like a messed up crime syndicate. Nothing against you, but the rest of the place is losing its shine. Only place that does seem like it did on face value thus far, is the bakery, and the changelings. The ones running the show ain't filling me with confidence that there's any other safe space here, than a locket box, three kilometers under the surface.

Epsilon rolled here eyes and snorted, "It wasn't much different before the incident. I've lived here my whole life and let me tell you, it was always a thin coat of paint on a thick pile of rot. Equestria, Troy, Grey, it's all been the same on the underside here in Pegas. Ponies want their salt, they get their salt. We can at least make sure they don't get themselves or others killed in the process."

She sighed, "I wouldn't mind leaving this town behind, but I feel some sort of connection to it, like it's my duty to make it better, to keep it from falling apart you know? Anyway, you mentioned the Judges. They're the top arbiters of the law, second only to Grey Mane himself. Most of the citizenry never see them. They only deal with those who specifically request it, or in very strong cases. Usually they simply confirm or overrule the decisions of the lower courts. They are strict, but their judgements are always fair, usually to the detriment of those accused."

She shrugged, "They're pretty nice ponies in person, a bit odd but they're not mean like most of the others."

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

...And I guess, any good places to eat in town? Dove's looking for a place, and we're still scouting the perimeters, more or less."

Epsilon chuckled, "I could be a good daughter and say that here's the best place in the city to eat, but really it depends on what you're interested in, and what you can afford. If you want traditional Equestrian cuisine then here's a safe bet. You more inclined to Trojan foods your best bet is the street vendors. High scale and gourmet you'll want the Luxure-Æther, but that'll cost you both wings and your first-born. You don't seem like the kind to eat meat, but if any of the others in the embassy are they'd like what they serve in Tartarus Pits, the dragon's casino." She thought for a moment longer, "For you two though... Hmm... There's a nice pizza place not far from here, not very expensive either and it's got a nice quiet atmosphere. I like to head there whenever I can. They've also got a good selection of ice cream despite everything, the owners being cows does help with that."

 

(Troy)

Selena nodded, seemingly oblivious to Void's embarrassment. "I'll get that finished tomorrow morning while they get their checkup. It should be ready to go for dinner tomorrow. And I'll see about getting some proper foal-care products. Your mother might be a good pony to ask about that, between soon having a foal and the fact that none of us have ever had a foal of our own, she might be a bit more experienced in that department."

She would turn to leave, "I'll be back in the morning with those supplies. Give your mother some well-wishes from me!"

Vale would also turn to go to her apartment, "I'll see you tomorrow then." 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-10 at 6:45 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Epsilon rolled here eyes and snorted, "It wasn't much different before the incident. I've lived here my whole life and let me tell you, it was always a thin coat of paint on a thick pile of rot. Equestria, Troy, Grey, it's all been the same on the underside here in Pegas. Ponies want their salt, they get their salt. We can at least make sure they don't get themselves or others killed in the process."

She sighed, "I wouldn't mind leaving this town behind, but I feel some sort of connection to it, like it's my duty to make it better, to keep it from falling apart you know? Anyway, you mentioned the Judges. They're the top arbiters of the law, second only to Grey Mane himself. Most of the citizenry never see them. They only deal with those who specifically request it, or in very strong cases. Usually they simply confirm or overrule the decisions of the lower courts. They are strict, but their judgements are always fair, usually to the detriment of those accused."

She shrugged, "They're pretty nice ponies in person, a bit odd but they're not mean like most of the others."

"Second... Grey Mane, is your highest authority?"

Her words dripped with ice as she said this. much as she tried to hide her feelings on some things, this one were hard for her to deal with herself. Unless Nine did something, her utter disgust for that shriveled old monster being the top law here, were pretty much impossible to mix.

She had knows he were a player in the high ranks in town. It was no surprise really, seeing how he were a snake, that did things like that, and had apparently taken part in liberating the city once. But him being the top of the food chain here, were nearly making her growl in anger. And it wasn't like she actually believed he had done anything good for this place. If he actually liberated it, he did so to gain power. And quite frankly, she wouldn't be surprised if in some fashion, he had been working with Discord, to gain more power, as she wouldn't put anything past that ignorant mongrel.

"I hope when his time is over, ponies like you will do better."

Could be she meant of old age. Could be she were thinking about when she carried his head out of town on a pike, to plant it in front of Illiad's front door, and declared the monster finally got what he deserved. Likely the last move she'd make in that town, before she had to escape. Apparently, some beings still liked the Grey, and would likely want her added to a pike herself after this.

Y'know, if that is what happened. Surely she just meant of old age.

On 2021-03-10 at 6:45 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Epsilon chuckled, "I could be a good daughter and say that here's the best place in the city to eat, but really it depends on what you're interested in, and what you can afford. If you want traditional Equestrian cuisine then here's a safe bet. You more inclined to Trojan foods your best bet is the street vendors. High scale and gourmet you'll want the Luxure-Æther, but that'll cost you both wings and your first-born. You don't seem like the kind to eat meat, but if any of the others in the embassy are they'd like what they serve in Tartarus Pits, the dragon's casino." She thought for a moment longer, "For you two though... Hmm... There's a nice pizza place not far from here, not very expensive either and it's got a nice quiet atmosphere. I like to head there whenever I can. They've also got a good selection of ice cream despite everything, the owners being cows does help with that."

"No offense, but I don't trust the casinos are safe. But I will mention all the places to Dove. Including this. She can make a choice herself. Maybe we'll go and check out the pizzeria though. Sounds like it could be nice, and fits most creatures. Usually a pizza variant for everyone."

It were mostly due to Arcade and herself, and she were frankly irritated that Epsilon were so easily able to scour out what she were going on about really, but whatever. After Grey mane got brought up, her mood were just sour in general. Rotten piece of filth spoiled her mood by the sheer mention of his name. maybe something affordable and simple would help her mood. Maybe a pizza with lemon. She could really use something sour right about now, that wasn't her mood.

"Do you have anything to say, Arcade? I think I've been through all I had for now."

At this point, she weren't sure if perhaps he had fallen asleep, as he hadn't sid a word since they got in here, but alright. She'd ask him point blank then, and see what was up.

(Troy)

Phew. This seemed to have gone off nice and easy then, which allowed her to slink off quietly, after saying goodnight to both Selena and Vale. The fresh air rushing through the streets would help her tremendously in calming down some, as she made her way home too, though the thought wouldn't leave her head. Quite frankly, it were just making her more happy to think about it.

Null had always said that her plan were to keep pushing on, country to country, until they finally sound a place that would accept them, and then make sure that Void got the opportunities she had been lacking. A home, and a family. With their parents being alive - thank the gods for that miracle - and Void now in a stable home, she technically had that, yet she did wish to have another kind of family too, just like Null had always wished she would. That being foals.

How many, she had never really settled on. Depended on the amount of brats she ran into, and the hormonal stages she got into, but... W-Well, anyway, the point were that there were now a family of adorable foals that could use parents of their own. Some she adored, and whom she felt were starting to trust her, when she said that she would do anything to make them happy. She might be alone, but she had met plenty of other single mothers, who did well, and this would help them stay together. They wouldn't have to be split up, and potentially end up gods knows where, unable to ever see eachother again. It would work well, even if it wasn't how she had imagined things. She had always just assumed that she would eventually find where her home would be, when she met a nice, kind stallion, and then things would just go from there. And who knew? She may still meet one here in Troy. It were a brave new world now, after all.

But... *sigh* THere were a lot to think about here, and things to do, if she wanted to even offer that in the first place. She'd need some time to think this through, and maybe, make some plans. Though for now, she had reached her parents door, and would try and keep focus on that.

So with a drawn out sigh, as she tried to push the thoughts back a little, she would knock on the door three times, and see if anyone were home and awake. Unless she were used to just walking in, in which case she would do that, and just look around, to see if there were any sign of life around. Might be they were sleeping though, or busy.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Second... Grey Mane, is your highest authority?"

Epsilon chuckled, "Not that most of the populous knows, they all think of the judges and the owners as the top. And for the most part that is the case. He doesn't typically interfere in the other's decisions."

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Do you have anything to say, Arcade? I think I've been through all I had for now."

Arcade had been looking out at the casino through the window, turning back at the attention coming back to him, "Yeah actually, do you know anything else about those ruins the artifacts came from? Know if your father got any for himself?"

Epsilon looked surprised at the question, "Can't say I've been to the ruins myself, they're a good distance out of town, near a series of mesas, they look like a seismograph station from the outside. I don't think my dad's got anything from there, but I'll check with him."

Arcade nodded, "The ambassadors believe the ruins were part of a scientific research outpost designed to research the artifacts they contained, and a specialist is coming from Troy to investigate. They might want to talk to your father about what he knows."

Epsilon nodded, "I'll pass that along to him. If that's all I should get going, Vector gets nervous when he doesn't see me for long periods of time."

 

(Troy)

Given the nature of their employment recently it was typically a safe bet that at least one of them was awake at any given time if they were present. Void was lucky enough to find her mother awake when she walked in, "How was work today?"

(As it pertains to romantic interests for Void, I don't have plans, feel free to insert who/whatever you like when you feel it appropriate.)

Edited March 12, 2021 by Illiad Easle

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-12 at 6:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Epsilon chuckled, "Not that most of the populous knows, they all think of the judges and the owners as the top. And for the most part that is the case. He doesn't typically interfere in the other's decisions."

Null were tensing up the more she heard. Insufferable cretin had crawled to the top, and ruled all from the shadows. And then the whole place were full of drugs, gangs, and gambling. She'd expect no less from him, and that was just on the surface. Who knew what else he had going on? likely some kind of test center for his monstrous Facility experiments too, under one of the buildings.

It were going to cause a power vacuum once he were removed, but it were definitely going to be a good thing. What could they possibly put in that'd do worse? Ninja? He didn't seem like he cared to lead. Might be Epsilon who'd manage to claw her way up, and much as she irked Null a little, that was nothing,. compared to the Grey himself.

On 2021-03-12 at 6:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade nodded, "The ambassadors believe the ruins were part of a scientific research outpost designed to research the artifacts they contained, and a specialist is coming from Troy to investigate. They might want to talk to your father about what he knows."

Epsilon nodded, "I'll pass that along to him. If that's all I should get going, Vector gets nervous when he doesn't see me for long periods of time."

"I think that's all. We'll make sure to fill in the specialist on things when we see them, and hope your father don't have any of the things they're here for. They're dangerous, and from what I know, some of them can ruin you to the core of your being. It's best if you're not involved in those things."

Quite frankly, she wouldn't be surprised if when confronted, it'd turn out that some of the ones owning these things, were actually possessed by, or corrupted in some other fashion, by some of those things they kept locked up. Much as Null did not like the way the Facility treated sensible, living creatures, she could at least agree that some things were best locked up, for good reason.

"We're not gonna take more of your time, for now anyway. Good luck with whomever Vector is, and we'll make sure that Dove sends a message when she can, to start things off the right way. Maybe we'll see you around. And a word of advice here: You and your dad, should keep things at a hoof's distance for a little while. Getting one in to look at these artifacts, among other things, are maybe gonna stir some nests. We'd prefer that you weren't caught up in the swarm, if it goes that way."

If there were nothing else, she'd nod, and start walking out of the room. They had more things to do today, though at least this one were sorted now. So that was one checked off the list.

(Troy)

On 2021-03-12 at 6:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Given the nature of their employment recently it was typically a safe bet that at least one of them was awake at any given time if they were present. Void was lucky enough to find her mother awake when she walked in, "How was work today?"

"Hey mom. Work went well, though I didn't stay there a lot."

Void wouldn't say more before she were allowed in, as she didn't want to have ears on this, that shouldn't. The whole situation with the foals were a rather hush hush affair.

"The consul and Selena have asked me to help out with some foals that were found in the desert. Null ran into them, when she were looking into some sort of cave system, and I've been helping a lot to take care of them.

They're apparently clones from the facility, made from some important ponies, like the princesses, and Pinkie Pie. And those horrible creatures treated the poor things really badly. Had one of the few *researchers* with a heart, that stole them all away, and we're trying to help those who are left. We don't know what happened to their mistress, but it's not that important either. And to me, neither is it that they're clones, even though it is for the oldest of them. poor Ardee... Been told all the time that she wasn't a real pony, and wasn't good enough, because she wasn't like the one they cloned her from... How can anyone treat an innocent foal like that?

Anyway, Selena would really like if we got them a health check, and she wanted me to ask you if you would feel okay doing that? I think they'd trust you more, since you're my mom, but I did tell her that you were maybe too far in your pregnancy, and I'd be worried about complications. But I promised her I'd talk to you about it.

Just... Please tell me you didn't have anything to do with them? I know you did work for them, but I'd like it if I didn't know anyone that were directly involved with this. It would make it harder to feel angry towards those who treated the poor things like they were second rate trash. And Ardee... The way she's been treated, it really marks her more than the others. I can see it in her eyes, and with how she's acting sometimes. She's going the same way Null did, after we left Troy."

She were rambling some, but made sure to keep her voice down, and away from windows, to make sure that only her mother would hear things she were saying now. Including the last parts, where she were nearly pleading that her mother would not say that she had anything to do with this project. If she knew about it, that could be helpful, but she didn't want to think of her mother being some of those cold creatures, who handled Ardee and the others. Unlikely as it were, seeing as she had always been a kind mother, who took a choice to think of her foals first, when it came down to the wire.

She should get the gravity in the last thing she said too, as it wasn't a good thing to be like Null. They had all seen how broken Null were, even if Void knew more of what were below the layers, whereas their parents had just seen a few layers in. Should be enough to tell that this were no fate for any sane pony. And definitely not for a foal..

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"We're not gonna take more of your time, for now anyway. Good luck with whomever Vector is, and we'll make sure that Dove sends a message when she can, to start things off the right way. Maybe we'll see you around. And a word of advice here: You and your dad, should keep things at a hoof's distance for a little while. Getting one in to look at these artifacts, among other things, are maybe gonna stir some nests. We'd prefer that you weren't caught up in the swarm, if it goes that way."

Epsilon led the way to the door to let them out, "Vector's my bodyguard, practically my real dad since my father's always so busy. Vector's been the one to teach me about... well, just about everything. Anyway, I'll be sure to keep a close eye out for what's going to go down. Been a while since this town last had a good shakedown."

She would follow them out of the office and lock the door behind them, "I'll see you two around then, feel free to come back whenever you need something!" With a cheerful wave she parted ways with them, heading up to the third floor.

Arcade watched her leave before turning his attention back to Null, "So... pizza then? I think I've only had that like one time. I remember it being okay."

(Troy)

Her mother listened closely as Void spoke, her expression mostly being one of concern as she talked about the foals.

Once Void finished she thought for a moment before shaking her head, "I definitely didn't have anything to do with clones, didn't even know that was something that could..." She hesitated, "That doesn't sound like something the Deep would even be interested in, unless some sort of relic created the clones. If anything..." She shook her head again, "No sense dwelling on that now. No, neither your father nor I had anything to do with that. We only worked at the outpost by Epsilon, which is a long way from anywhere Null would be. But yes, I would be more than happy to examine them. If anything my being so pregnant should further help convince them I can't harm them. If I can hardly move too quickly then I can't pose much of a threat now can I?" She chuckled. "You want me to come with you tomorrow then? As close as my due date is I can easily get a break from the hospital, not that things have been too busy there anyway. Why don't you tell me about them? You mentioned the princesses and Pinkie specifically, how many are there?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-19 at 6:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She would follow them out of the office and lock the door behind them, "I'll see you two around then, feel free to come back whenever you need something!" With a cheerful wave she parted ways with them, heading up to the third floor.

"Good tides ahead, Epsilon."

Null would nod as the mare wandered off, and it were their time to do the same. She still weren't majorly thrilled about Epsilon, but she supposed, that she wasn't as bad as first assumed. Considering the alternatives, right? Out of those, she were probably the best of them, whom might switch things up a bit, if she could claw herself to power, after Grey Mane's removal would leave a vacuum on the top.

But whatever happened there, it wasn't gonna be her problem. Wasn't like she had any reason to return here, once she had gotten her prize. Nor honestly thought that she'd be welcome either. So yeah, weren't her headache, unless things took a weird twist at some point during all of this.

On 2021-03-19 at 6:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade watched her leave before turning his attention back to Null, "So... pizza then? I think I've only had that like one time. I remember it being okay."

"Yeah, sounds like a plan. Though pizza isn't just one thing, y'know. It's a disk of bread, but there's a ton of things you can actually put on it, and there's a lot of varied kinds of bread it can be made out of, even. Seen a few places that made it out of special stuff, like beef, or hay. One time, it were molded, prebaked potatoes, made into a disk. Didn't taste half as horrid as I thought at the time.

*sigh* But I doubt they'd be running that kind around here. And when it comes to a regular kind, I don't think you'd like the sort I'd be looking to put my teeth into. Not that many that likes sour tastes, like lemons.

What sort of tastes Do you even like, actually? Cinnamon sounded good earlier, but what else? Spicy? Sweet? Tangy, maybe? I could believe savory, with a slight burn to it, maybe? You can't have only eaten that bread you were on about earlier. Got to be some taste that interested you more than the others, right?"

(Troy)

On 2021-03-19 at 6:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Once Void finished she thought for a moment before shaking her head, "I definitely didn't have anything to do with clones, didn't even know that was something that could..." She hesitated, "That doesn't sound like something the Deep would even be interested in, unless some sort of relic created the clones. If anything..." She shook her head again, "No sense dwelling on that now. No, neither your father nor I had anything to do with that. We only worked at the outpost by Epsilon, which is a long way from anywhere Null would be. But yes, I would be more than happy to examine them. If anything my being so pregnant should further help convince them I can't harm them. If I can hardly move too quickly then I can't pose much of a threat now can I?" She chuckled. "You want me to come with you tomorrow then? As close as my due date is I can easily get a break from the hospital, not that things have been too busy there anyway. Why don't you tell me about them? You mentioned the princesses and Pinkie specifically, how many are there?"

Void had let out a big sigh of relief. It was good to hear that neither of them had been part of this. And yes, whilst she had kind of hoped they may have heard of it, so she could get some information on everything, it were still nothing massively important. Especially not compared to the alternative of them having intimate knowledge of everything.

There were still questions raised from the response she were given though, but Void would wait with those. There were the much more important matter of the foals, and the plans for tomorrow to discuss first.

"Selena and I were thinking it were best to get done quickly, so tomorrow's probably a good idea. I'll make sure to prepare them as best I can for the visit, and what to expect, but you're going to be swarmed with questions I think. They were very curious when I brought up you were pregnant.

Though, I don't think anyone byt Ardee knows they're clones, so please don't bring that up around them? They're just foals, and doesn't deserve to be told that they were copied from someone else. Even if that doesn't mean they aren't their own ponies. I've met most of those they're apparently copied from, and even if they have some resemblances, they're still different. IN personality a lot too, but I guess you'll see that tomorrow.

And what to say about them, without going on for hours and hours? Well...

Ardee is the oldest of those we have there. She's apparently based off of Rainbow Dash, but she doesn't have the rainbow colors. I don't think her wings works the same way either, since she said the scientists lamented that she couldn't reach the same speed. Her wings are very dexterous though. She have an excellent control.

She's also very protective of the others. She's kind of their big sister, and they look to her for guidance. It puts a lot on her, but she does her best to carry it. I think when someday she doesn't have to be burdened with these things, or feel she have to constantly watch the others, she might end up going out and becoming and adventurer. Dangerous profession, but if that's what she wants, I got to make sure she's ready. And I have no doubt she will be. She has a real drive, and a lot of potential. I think you'd like her.

Toupé are sort of like Pinkie Pie, if Pinkie had ever taken medication for her over-hyper personality. Her and Teal are acting like the primary caretakers of the youngest foals, and they're good at taking these responsibilities. She does wear an old lab coat, that seems to have belonged to whoever their mistress were, which is very important to her. So be careful with it when examining her, okay? She's a very smart little foal, that's really good at asking questions, and I think she'll be doing well in the kitchen, once we get the oven set up. They're all very exited to try and cook, but I just see something in Teal, that makes me think she could learn really fast, and become a chef someday.

Now Teal, she's a brainy one. Inquisitive as Twilight, and happy to test things, to see what is really going on. When she found out about my aura, she kept testing putting a brush near me with her horn, to see what were going on. It was really adorable, but it also shows off her nature. I think someday, she's really going to blow the shoes off us all, with some kind of scientific breakthrough. She just needs some calm and an outlet to work with, instead of that nomad lifestyle they were forced into, after they were taken away from the facility. I'm sure that soon as you meet, she's going to be the one who really starts asking the most about your foal.

There's also Elef. I'm not sure who he's supposed to be cloned from, but he's a thestral, and mostly gets taught in his kind's ways by one of the guards that helped them here. She's one too, and have been really good at getting him out there to learn of his culture, and mingle with his own kind. He's a bit of a nervous sort though, so please have patience with him. I just think he doesn't have enough good interactions with others yet to fully come out of his shell. He sadly haven't been around enough for me to learn a whole lot about how he is yet, but I'm hoping to make up for that someday, when he isn't busy with his own things. Whatever they do out there, he sure is happy when he comes back though, so that's what matters the most anyway.

Then there's Peal and Piecey. Awh, those two warms my heart just thinking about them.

Piecey looks somewhat like Celestia, and both her and her sister, are very active, and energetic, when they're not napping or eating. They also like to get carried around, and really gets into it when we play games. We had a good game of Twister earlier, and they- Well, they didn't know the rules, but they had a fun time trying to see whom of us they could get toppled. They eventually won every time."

Void giggled a little as she thought of that. Sure her leg had come off, but it had still been an amazing and fun experience. Who cared if the rules weren't followed fully? It had been about having fun. And that they had.

"You should've seen them when they met Lacuna the first time. Piecey took her time, but Peal and him got along like two peas in a pod. You ever seen a foal and a cackler hug before? It's so adorable, I were almost dripping rainbows and sunshine out of my pores. I can't wait to introduce those two little bundles of joy to you.

Oh, right. Remember how I'd been talking about getting a pet? Well... This is him. Lacuna. Though he's having a nap currently."

She'd point up to the cackler sleeping around her neck, whistling softly in his sleep. He didn't have a worry, nor things to rush. He just had his warm spot, and a belly full of food, and he were as happy as could be because of it.

"There is one more too, but the only thing I know about him, is that he's called Arcade. He sounded like he were the oldest. An adult even, maybe? I haven't asked a lot about him, since there were more important things to deal with first, but it sounds like he have followed Null and the others to New Las Pegasus. Hopefully they're getting along well, if he did. I can't imagine it being easy for her out there, all on her own. *sigh* Definitely hard to get used to for me... But anyway right. Anything else you'd like to know about the foals, mom? I'm happy to share what I can. Even if I feel like they sell themselves, the first time you look on their adorable little faces."

Void had primarily been gushing about the foals, and ended up on them too, gushing over them like a proud parent, whilst being completely oblivious to that fact. To her, she were just sharing information, like her mother had asked. The realization would likely hit her later, when there were more of a lull on things, and she had a chance to think over things.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

if she could claw herself to power, after Grey Mane's removal would leave a vacuum on the top

(...)

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

What sort of tastes Do you even like, actually? Cinnamon sounded good earlier, but what else? Spicy? Sweet? Tangy, maybe? I could believe savory, with a slight burn to it, maybe? You can't have only eaten that bread you were on about earlier. Got to be some taste that interested you more than the others, right?

Arcade looked a bit embarrassed as Null described all the different combinations that a pizza could have, and when the attention was turned back on him, "Oh, um... to be perfectly honest I can't say I have too much experience with food. Back there they mostly just gave us this bland paste. Mistress says it was nutrient rich and would keep us healthy. I have no doubt now it was also full of meds and other such things. It wasn't until Mistress got us out of there that any of us really tried more 'normal' food. Nonetheless I'm happy to learn, it sounds like there are many things worth trying."

If they were to follow Epsilon's directions they'd find that the casino had exits to either side of the hotel portion, one way doors that required a room card to get back in without going back through the front. As they passed an alley on the way. Null might have noticed an old and tattered poster hanging on the wall:

It was a missing pony poster, dated two decades prior, of her and Void. The picture was likely from their file when they were originally in the facility's care. It was too faded to tell who information was supposed to go to, but someone had been looking for them so long ago.

 

(Troy)

Her mother listened intently as Void spoke, starting to take a few short notes after Void got to the third one, her expression fell a bit once she mentioned Arcade, but moved on as Void did. "They sound adorable! I can't wait to meet them myself, I'll get the necessary tools from the hospital in the morning, then come by in the early afternoon? That should give you enough time to get them ready for the examination, and me enough time to remember what all I should check and where they should be developmentally."

She looked like she wanted to say something, but decided against it and set her notes down, she had converted their names into two letter acronyms, except presumably Arcade who had three letters: R-K/D. "I should get some rest so I can be at my best for the foals tomorrow, anything else you need?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-21 at 2:59 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh, um... to be perfectly honest I can't say I have too much experience with food. Back there they mostly just gave us this bland paste. Mistress says it was nutrient rich and would keep us healthy. I have no doubt now it was also full of meds and other such things. It wasn't until Mistress got us out of there that any of us really tried more 'normal' food. Nonetheless I'm happy to learn, it sounds like there are many things worth trying."

"Maybe they have some sort of mixed platter then. Or they have some sort of house specialty to go with. Guess we'll see, and then take it from there. We'll find you a taste that suits you soon enough.

I'd like citrus, cayenne- Maybe some sort of bitter root mixture? Dunno what they got."

Her tastes were a little unusual, but she had grown up given the good, sweeter tasting things to Void. Eventually, you just sort of get used to the more unusual ones, such as bitter, and sour, and end with a preference for them. Frankly, she wasn't a big fan of sweetness. The cinnamon were okay, but it weren't like she had the lust to go and eat four more buns. It were more like an apple. Fine she supposed, but something that made her heart flutter in joy.

On 2021-03-21 at 2:59 AM, Illiad Easle said:

If they were to follow Epsilon's directions they'd find that the casino had exits to either side of the hotel portion, one way doors that required a room card to get back in without going back through the front. As they passed an alley on the way. Null might have noticed an old and tattered poster hanging on the wall:

It was a missing pony poster, dated two decades prior, of her and Void. The picture was likely from their file when they were originally in the facility's care. It was too faded to tell who information was supposed to go to, but someone had been looking for them so long ago.

Null had halted instantly, the second she saw the poster, and without a word, would go right up to the old depiction of her, and her sister. Even younger, it wasn't like it were hard to spot it were them. The charcoal-like coats, silver manes, tails and eyes, were pretty easy to spot. Most were rather colorful ponies after all, and this were seemingly taken long, long ago. Back when Void wasn't all that much taller than Null were. The stunted nature began to really show itself about a year after that, when Void started to get her growth spurt started, and Null pretty much stayed the same size. A little taller eventually, but there were a reason for a lot thinking that she were either the baby sister, or that Void were a young mother, for the majority of their time.

She rose a hoof to run over it. To see herself and Void, so long past, before it had all gone horribly, horribly wrong... Back when the only thing they were missing, were Void's eye, which had even then been replaced by a glass replica. It were weird to see them look so whole, and frankly appeased. Free of worry, and the knowledge of how cruel and unforgiving the world could be.

Memories of what transpired though, roared through her after that, and her slightly calm, longing gaze, became hard. Her eyes narrowed, and a guttural growl escaped her throat, as she tore the poster from the wall. While it laid on the ground, she'd raise her hoof, with every clear intention to trample it until it were stomped several meters into the ground, where it could be buried along with the foalhoof they stole from them.

How Dared they have this up here?! They weren't some poor, lost foals, who had longing parents that were hoping that a kind soul would find them before they got hurt. They had been maimed, and their parents - who had originally just been assigned to watch them, as surrogates - had prepared to take them away, before it got worse. An action that ended up costing them dearly, and putting her into the world, having to juggle a constantly crying sister, the memory of what she thought were her parents dying because of her, and somehow, finding a way to keep them alive. Because of Him, whatever innocence were depicted on this poster, had been torn from her, thrown on the ground, and spat upon!

There was no innocence, or precious, lost foals. There were just cold, uncaring malice, from a father that had a dark, cold hole in his chest were a heart should have been. She should destroy this, as much as he had destroyed them.

Yet, as she stomped down, she couldn't get herself to hit the poster. The dirt just swirled up besides it, as she stomped down again and again, trying to get some of this pent up aggression out of her system. Several times, until she finally had the worst out, and she stood, slightly panting, with her eyes fixated on the somewhat, slightly dust covered poster.

They never had much in the way of items, of the times gone by, Void and her. The only thing they really had, were the small picture of their family, back when they had all been together and happy. A memento that Null had taken with her into the world, by Void's insistence, as she knew that Null would need a reminder of what she were out there fighting for.

This were the only other picture she had access to. Faded and marked with age, but she could still see it were them, and much as she wanted to, she couldn't get herself to destroy this. It filled her with longing for times that would never return, as well as rage, when she thought of who had likely set it up, to try and get some stranger to tell him if they had been seen.

So she picked it back up, and dusted it off, before she started to roll it up. It would be a little annoying to carry with her, but she could stick it in the belt for now, and find a better placement in the saddleback when she got the chance. What she'd do with it though, she wasn't sure. She knew she couldn't just destroy it, but if she'd also keep this, to remind herself of the cruelty that lead her to this point, or leave it back home, when she came by for the likely last time in a while, with Grey Mane's head... She'd need time to think about it.

Unless confronted, she'd take this in the belt, and just keep walking, silently. She didn't even notice that a pair of pale eyes were watching her from behind a nearby crate, before whoever it were, scurried out of there. If anyone looked closely, they'd see a small changeling female, though she were rarely bitten notice in. Even by Hive Cheshire, so she often managed to see a few things here and there. Such as this strange situation. Might be something she needed to go and tell someone about. Maybe it would even be worth something, if she found the right pair of ears.

(Troy)

On 2021-03-21 at 2:59 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"They sound adorable! I can't wait to meet them myself, I'll get the necessary tools from the hospital in the morning, then come by in the early afternoon? That should give you enough time to get them ready for the examination, and me enough time to remember what all I should check and where they should be developmentally."

She looked like she wanted to say something, but decided against it and set her notes down, she had converted their names into two letter acronyms, except presumably Arcade who had three letters: R-K/D. "I should get some rest so I can be at my best for the foals tomorrow, anything else you need?"

"That sounds good, mom. I'll go and tell Selena about it soon as I can, and prepare some things for tomorrow too. She wanted to know tonight, before we tried something else, since I think it's best we have a dentist check them out too soon. It's not a nice experience, but I want to make sure they're healthy in all, possible ways. I feel like I have to do my best with them all. Not just Ardee, even if she's the one I want to help the most. Poor filly needs to not be forced to be the pillar keeping it all together for them anymore, and be able to just live like any normal filly her age.

Though speaking about health, how are you feeling mom? Are you okay? Is the foal? And uhm... I think you mispelled Arcade. It was meant like an arcade machine, not initials. Though I guess it does kind of sound like it.

A-Anyway, is everything okay with you? Are you making sure to rest?"

She were doling on the foals, but she certainly were so with her mother too, who were given these sorts of questions pretty much every day Void saw her. It might be a little much, but she were just so worried that something might happen to her little sibling, as well as her mother, and it didn't mix with her general paranoia all that well.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

Arcade watched silently as Null attacked the ground around the posted she had left him to tear off the wall, he would wait until she had mostly calmed down and walked back over, "Um, are you alright? What was that about?"

4 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

She didn't even notice that a pair of pale eyes were watching her from behind a nearby crate, before whoever it were, scurried out of there. If anyone looked closely, they'd see a small changeling female, though she were rarely bitten notice in. Even by Hive Cheshire, so she often managed to see a few things here and there. Such as this strange situation. Might be something she needed to go and tell someone about. Maybe it would even be worth something, if she found the right pair of ears.

(I'm interested in seeing where you want to go with this. On that note, I don't have a lot of the city set in stone, and I think I've explained the inner workings well enough for you to insert some actions. You could have her talk to a guard, one of the casino bosses, I'll just veto her trying to talk to Grey, you don't ask to talk to him, he summons you if he thinks you know something.)

(Here's a description for when they move on)

The pizza place was a bit of a cozy hole in the wall place, only a few tables inside, but the interior was cozy and warm offsetting the ocean breeze they had gotten accustomed to outside. A young griffon was sat at the counter, looking up in surprise when they entered, "Customers? Come in come in! What can I get you?"

 

(Troy)

4 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Though speaking about health, how are you feeling mom? Are you okay? Is the foal? And uhm... I think you mispelled Arcade. It was meant like an arcade machine, not initials. Though I guess it does kind of sound like it.

A-Anyway, is everything okay with you? Are you making sure to rest?"

Her mom waved a hoof dismissively, "I'm fine, you don't need to worry about me on top of these other poor foals you've got." She sighed, looking back at the notes that Void mentioned, "If only I had misspelled it, that would be far better than what I can't deny is the truth." She turned the notes so Void could see them better, "These aren't names, they're research designation codes. They've been called them for so long they've become to think of them as names. Most of them are innocuous, references to the ponies they were cloned from, LF being a thestral is likely a clone of one of Luna's generals from the Fastar clan, but R-K/D..." She sighed, a tear coming to her eye, "That's the code for research termination, back when your father and I worked for Equestrian research this was the code word for researchers whose work was deemed too dangerous, once someone got RK'D you never saw them again. These foals, they need real names, ones with meaning, not just assigned to them."

(R-K/D stands for Reject - Kill/Destroy)

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-23 at 4:02 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade watched silently as Null attacked the ground around the posted she had left him to tear off the wall, he would wait until she had mostly calmed down and walked back over, "Um, are you alright? What was that about?"

"A bad memory. I don't want to talk about it right now."

Maybe some other time, but right now, she were feeling pretty frustrated, and were in no mood to discuss this. Partially because it would involve a lot of shouting, as well as her likely saying something she shouldn't have. There was just a lot to say about this, and none of it would go anywhere good. So she'd shut up, before she did something she'd regret.

Maybe after all of this were over, she'd be able to spill the beans some on this, and enlighten him. Wasn't like Arcade would be able to ignore there being more than she were telling, once she had slain Grey Mane. He'd probably have questions, and at that point, she wasn't sure that she could keep lying to him. Not if things sorta developed like they had for now.

They'd almost get to the food place, before she let out sigh, and stopped up. She'd turn to Arcade then, feeling a little more calm, though still not entirely pleased with everything. She wasn't smiling loads, and thinking about rainbows and bunnies, alright?

"Look... Some things I just don't wanna talk about right now, alright? I'll tell you about this some other time, but I need too mull it over myself first, because I'm not even sure what to think of it myself yet. I'll let you know, once I've dealt with that. You have my word."

Way more open and honest about things than most others she'd interact with, but they were kind of dating too, right? So... She were supposed to be more honest. She just needed to finish her mission first, before she could say much more. Though she'd try and hide the part about her family. Maybe. It were one more thing she needed to mull over.

On 2021-03-23 at 4:02 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The pizza place was a bit of a cozy hole in the wall place, only a few tables inside, but the interior was cozy and warm offsetting the ocean breeze they had gotten accustomed to outside. A young griffon was sat at the counter, looking up in surprise when they entered, "Customers? Come in come in! What can I get you?"

"Nice looking place. Small, intimate... Cozy, and easy to defend... This place have some promise."

Null had looked around at the place to start with, before addressing the owner, who seemed to be very surprised to see customers right now. Were it a slow day here or something? Seemed like a good place, so it was weird that it would be so dull. Maybe it just wasn't the right time of day for the action to take place?

"Ignore that. We've been told this was a good food place, so we're here to try it out. Hoping it's good, so we can invite some friends along the next time.

Do you have any sort of pizza with a sour, or bitter kick to it? Spicy is fine too, long as it have a bit of a burn to it. And my da... My date here, doesn't know what tastes he likes, so what's your recommendations? House specialty or something. Long as it's not with meat."

She'd scour the menu, if it hung above the counter, or somewhere around it, to gauge the prices. If she could see them, she'd likely find them reasonable indeed, and have the cash ready to pay for her meal. Not a whole ton more, but she'd have to deal with that some way eventually. Likely needed to go to an exchange shop in town, and try and see what the varied currencies she had, made up for in local tender.

As for the changeling that has spotted them earlier, she'd be headed towards a back entrance, near one of the casinos. She was technically one of the changelings that Hive Cheshire helped in town, and for all intents and purposes, she were just very shy, and officially just worked cleaning up a few places after closing.

In actuality, she were a bit more freelance. As she were trained in, and used to, not drawing too much attention to herself, she were excellent at gathering information, and weren't all that hyped on servitude to a singular entity, such as a Queen again. Her last one had sold her hive out, to gain favor with Discord's armies, for her own, personal gain. Something that had lead to quite troubling tides, for those who refused to follow orders among them, with the little changeling here, being the only one who made it to New Las Pegasus eventually. She had to hide for a long time, but she managed to slink away from yet another patrol one night, when she eyed a chance, and came here to try and make a better living for herself.

The hive were friendly to her, and she greatly appreciated their help. Yet she had to think about number one, and that meant that she needed friends in high places. Best way to get that, were to take notice of things, and report important things to those that might care. She had some intel gathered on a competitor's nightly doings as it were already for this particular owner, and were here to deliver. Yet the mare and the poster - one which she had bitten note in before, and could see the resemblance between one of the depicted foals, and this stunted mare - seemed like it might be of some importance to someone. Potentially even Grey Mane himself, who she would do anything to get in good favors with. He were such a powerful, influential stallion, that if she could get to at least be acknowledged as having some value by one in his circle, she may have a ticket to a more secure, laid back life, rather than slink around in an old, ruined theater for shelter.

So for now, she'd stand ready, with the scribbled down notes, and small bag of evidence she had gathered after the fact, and prepare to face the worker that would bring the news she had towards another, who'd then go for another likely, that might then get it to the hotel leader. A lot of steps, but she were currently barely registered on the food chain, and just a bit of a convenient, useful tool here and there. Hopefully she'd soon get to be a valued, useful tool. That would be something.

She'd knock on the door two times, then wait six seconds, and follow up with one loud, then three small ones afterwards. A silly code in her mind, but ergh... Rules were rules. She were just a small fish, and she did best in following them, and being obedient. She'd be more valued if she knew her place, more than likely.

(Troy)

On 2021-03-23 at 4:02 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"I'm fine, you don't need to worry about me on top of these other poor foals you've got."

"Mom, I couldn't stop worrying about you if I wanted to, and you know that. After all the time apart, and with the Grey still being in play... There's a lot to worry about. Both for you, and the foal."

On 2021-03-23 at 4:02 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"These aren't names, they're research designation codes. They've been called them for so long they've become to think of them as names. Most of them are innocuous, references to the ponies they were cloned from, LF being a thestral is likely a clone of one of Luna's generals from the Fastar clan, but R-K/D..." She sighed, a tear coming to her eye, "That's the code for research termination, back when your father and I worked for Equestrian research this was the code word for researchers whose work was deemed too dangerous, once someone got RK'D you never saw them again. These foals, they need real names, ones with meaning, not just assigned to them."

Void grew metaphorically paler as the talk went on, and she became increasingly worried and concerned. This... This were a lot to take in, and just put the poor foal's plight into a further, horrifying spectrum of indifference. They didn't even have their own names, because it were all taken from designations?

"...How? H-How can anyone be such cruel to them? How insanely heartless can a being be, to see foals like this, and not even give them the decency of a real name? Gods above, if we hadn't broken that place down already, I would-"

Void shut up, and closed her eyes while taking some deep, raspy breaths. She were starting to get angry, and that wouldn't get them anywhere, She had to try and remain rational here. Even if everything were screaming at her that this were senseless cruelty. As well as there being one other thought, that were starting to nag, and tear at her mind.

"...Did we have c-codes too? Null and I? The facility that k-kidnapped us from Equestria, called us S-2113-1 and -2. Was that ours? Were we also ju- No, no, I have to... H-have to focus on Them.

I don't know if we can just change their names right now. Ardee would likely be okay with it, since she remembers a lot of the worst things from the Facility, but the others seem to have it close with them. Their mistress likely used those names too, and they hold her in very, very high stands. I don't know if they'd be willing to change, or even understand why it might need to happen. Especially not the little ones.

I... I have to ask Ardee about this. She would know best of all, and if it can, and should be done, she'll help us talk it over with them. But I'm not forcing them to do it, if they don't want to. They've been treated like property too much already, and I'm not putting them through that again, nor letting anyone get to them, that would try to do that. I... I'll kill them first, if I must."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

The griffon at the counter was hardly phased by Null's comments on the defendability of the restaurant, moving right along to her order, "Bitter no, but spicy yes. We have many spicy options. For your friend... maybe cheese?" she nodded, "With oil and such, very nice." She pulled out a weathered menu that was nonetheless still fully legible, pointing out where ingredients could be chosen. "Easiest is half for you, half for friend. We have peppers, jalapenos, habaneros, chipotles, many types. Pick what you like and we will make it."

Once Null ordered the griffon would ask what type she had to pay with, and take an affordable amount of the currency provided. "Take a seat, it will be ready soon, fifteen/twenty minutes."

 

The door opened to reveal a rather snooty looking pony, as one might expect from the Luxure-Æther, he looked down his nose at the changeling, "We've no scraps for beggers, you best be off." Which was code for: "What do you bring?"

 

(Troy)

Her mother was quick to wrap her in a comforting hug, she waited until Void was done speaking to offer her words of encouragement, "You two... you had designations yes. But your names are your real names. You were given them at the hospital you were born in, and we made sure they stayed yours. As to changing their names... it is not uncommon for a pony to change their name when they get their cutie mark, often choosing a name that better reflects their path in life. Perhaps if you told them this now they'd be open to the idea of it when that time comes, and if not, they will at least have made the decision themselves to keep the name. That way, they at least have a choice in the matter."

After a bit she would relax the embrace, "You should get some rest too, you won't be much good to those foals if you're dead on your hooves."

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-25 at 5:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Bitter no, but spicy yes. We have many spicy options. For your friend... maybe cheese?" she nodded, "With oil and such, very nice." She pulled out a weathered menu that was nonetheless still fully legible, pointing out where ingredients could be chosen. "Easiest is half for you, half for friend. We have peppers, jalapenos, habaneros, chipotles, many types. Pick what you like and we will make it."

"Alright, we'll split one. I'll go with a chipotle variant, with salsa, cheese, and union. We'll try a classic cheese one for the other half then, and see how it goes."

The price were indeed reasonable, and they'd soon have the payment dealt with. So far so good in here, with a quaint little place. It also had a good atmosphere, and friendly staff. It would come down to how the food tasted, but if that were at least tolerable, she had no issue referring Dove to this. Surely she couldn't be so high up the chain she couldn't enjoy simple pizza, right? And this place seemed like it could use some business. Maybe if the word come around that a diplomat ate here, it'd help on things. Still weird how quiet it seemed to be here honestly. Were this just a bad time of day? Or were it perhaps something with the food? Maybe other issues? Guess they'd get smarter on it sooner or later.

On 2021-03-25 at 5:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Once Null ordered the griffon would ask what type she had to pay with, and take an affordable amount of the currency provided. "Take a seat, it will be ready soon, fifteen/twenty minutes."

She'd wander over to a seating/standing area at a table, and wait to speak until Arcade was over there before she spoke up.

"...You don't mind me calling you that, right? my date? I'm... Trying to do this right, but working in the dark a bit here. I know you don't know more about it than me, but y'know. You can tell if you're okay with it."

She were rambling a little, as a slight, reddish tint were going over her cheeks. Not an easy one to spot with her coat color, but if it blushed up enough, nothing could hide that.

On 2021-03-25 at 5:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The door opened to reveal a rather snooty looking pony, as one might expect from the Luxure-Æther, he looked down his nose at the changeling, "We've no scraps for beggers, you best be off." Which was code for: "What do you bring?"

"P-Please sir, just a little? I will give anything."

Nightingale would push the crate closer, and play the act as the scared commoner, covering beneath the eye of the powerful, rich pony, that owned the place she were seemingly trying to get some scraps from. It were all an act, but she were playing it well, as she were trained to do. She had not been a scout for her former hive for nothing. In that role, one needed to be able to adapt to many situations, and sell any kind of scenario well. It were one reason why she rarely went above this small stature too. It were simple to play the part, when the part needing to be played, were often the abused foal, or weak beggar, trying to scrape by. A lost puppy, yearning for love. A chicken, innocently pecking away at the farm- The list went on, but it were rare she needed to appear, or act intimidating. She did best in going unnoticed, or taking advantage of other beings ingrained need for sympathy.

As for what she said here, it were code too, as she had pushed the crate towards him. As she were often seen wandering around alleys, or garbage cans, when she were actually taken notice of, it were easy to sell that she were gathering anything of even slight value, to trade for what she needed, or wanted. Which wasn't entirely wrong, just with a few details here and there mucked up.

The code here were broken up into parts. The *P-Please sir* were the standard *I have come to report my findings, sir*. The *Just a little?* were referencing that she had something of value with her, beyond what she had originally been sent out to find. Otherwise, it would have jumped directly to the last part, which were speaking of her having completed her mission, and gotten what had been asked for.

There would be the information, and evidence needed to put a grip on, the competitor she had been sent to gather dirt on. Extra-marital affairs were simple things to threaten with, but between that, who it were with, and the things that went on, it provided quite a nice little package of things that he would definitely not want to go public. It would give a nice upper hoof for her current employer. One who had found her, like they all had: A poster set up somewhere in a back alley. It would have to look old, and referencing something minute and unimportant, like an event of sorts, but long as it had a code phrase she were familiarized with, she would get the hint, and get there. What she did, were mostly shared between a small number of beings currently, and they each had their own code phrases she had to memorize. This one had used her before, but hopefully, among the more corrupt elite, her name would be at least briefly mentioned, if there were a need for her services. The more of the right ones who knew her worth, the better.

Included would also be a detailed description of the two ponies she had seen take down the poster, as well as what the poster had been about, and noting the similarity of Null, to the one depicted. She had seen the poster before, as there had been times she had to pick up her *work order* from the same area, and had thought it were one of hers to begin with.

Response wise, she'd usually receive something minute, and a message to scram. A small packet of biscuits, or a doggie bag of some sort. The stuff inside rarely mattered, as they couldn't risk her being found with actual payment, so stale biscuits or the like, wasn't unnatural. There were back channels to deal with things properly, or she'd receive a favor elsewhere, like a package hidden in a particular container, ready for pickup. The stale things she'd get, were usually just for show. A way to show a sort of *If we toss her this, she'll go away, instead of rummaging through our garbage*.

If however, she were to follow up on something, the bag would include something special. Usually the smallest bit of currency one could find in their pocket. A way of signaling that she had a paying job again. If not, the information were seen as either useless, or would have to be evaluated first, and she'd be told further another time. It weren't her role to judge what was important. Just spot things out of the norm, and pass it along, just in case.

(Troy)

"I'll get some sleep soon, but I promised Selena to come by and give her an answer to what we're gonna do tomorrow, soon as I could. After that, I'll go home and get some sleep. Plenty to do the next few days as it is. And I'll talk to them about the names, but it will be their choice, and I think it's best if I talk with Ardee first, as I said. She knows how they feel about it more than anyone else.

It's good to hear that Null and I at least got to keep our names. Just another reason why you are the best mother any pony could ever have, and the little new one is going to be lucky to have you."

Soon as Void had been let go off, she remembered something that were likely going to happen relatively soon actually. Might be best to tell her mother about that, just in case her visitor showed up, and asked about her. So she knew it wasn't something the Grey were setting up, as an example.

"And uhm... I'm getting a visitor one of these days. I only met him a few times in Ponyville, but he remembers me, and sent a letter about wanting to catch up, after he heard I were alive. If someone comes around with mechanical wings, carrying tools, that's him. Just let him know where my workshop is if that is. Just in case he doesn't go there first. I don't know exactly when he's showing up, but just in case. Oh right, and his name. It's Molotov Boom. He's very... Direct.

Anyway, I'll get going. Remember to get your rest, and send word if there is anything, okay? I'll be there right away."

If there was nothing else, she'd say goodbye to her mother, and get on her way to meet up with Selena. They had a plan for tomorrow to go by now, and had to get the details down. Starting with this, then her getting some sleep, before getting up to prepare breakfast, and getting ready to ready the foals for what were going to happen.

Edited March 26, 2021 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

On 2021-03-26 at 3:06 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"...You don't mind me calling you that, right? my date? I'm... Trying to do this right, but working in the dark a bit here. I know you don't know more about it than me, but y'know. You can tell if you're okay with it."

Arcade had been looking around the place when Null spoke to him, "Hmm? I mean... I can't say I rightly know much about what being someone's date entails. Mistress occasionally mentioned that she was dating someone, but she never elaborated what that meant, until you brought it up I thought it had to do with telling how old something was. Why don't you explain what dating means?"

Ther food would arrive about 15 minutes after the ordered, the griffon setting it on a short pedestal between them which, given their shorter than average heights, put the pizza at about eye level. "Here you two are, it should be quiet in here for another half hour or so until the afternoon rush starts ramping up, but feel free to call out if you need anything."

She also set out a plate for each of them, as well as other standard silverware.

 

(Troy)

Their mother nodded, "I'll keep an eye out for this friend of yours and send him your way if I see him before you do. I'll see you tomorrow then, have a good night!"

As it came to meeting up with Selena, Void may have taken note that she rarely went out in search of Selena before, usually Selena was the one to find her. Given she had been called Judge on some paperwork, maybe she could be found at the courthouse? She also seemed to be rather close to the Consul, so the Consul's estate might also be a good bet on finding her.

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

13 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade had been looking around the place when Null spoke to him, "Hmm? I mean... I can't say I rightly know much about what being someone's date entails. Mistress occasionally mentioned that she was dating someone, but she never elaborated what that meant, until you brought it up I thought it had to do with telling how old something was. Why don't you explain what dating means?"

"It's when, y'know, two beings are going out. Like a couple..."

This were not helping her blush, but as she by some miracle, were the one who knew the most of this, she had to explain it. Which due to her inexperience, as well as her trouble with dealing with these sorts of feelings, were not being helped a long all that well.

If this was a movie, they'd be the awkward teens who'd never had a date before, and were trying to see if they could have a romantic evening with someone they actually did feel good about. While at the same time, being too embarrassed and awkward to really know what to do.

Following that logic, the night would either end with jubilant makeouts, or Arcade would get his head or hoof stuck in a trash can, after dropped a bucket of some sort of liquid on Null. A laugh track would then ensue.

She swore to several gods- If her life was about to become a sitcom, she were setting something on fire...

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ther food would arrive about 15 minutes after the ordered, the griffon setting it on a short pedestal between them which, given their shorter than average heights, put the pizza at about eye level. "Here you two are, it should be quiet in here for another half hour or so until the afternoon rush starts ramping up, but feel free to call out if you need anything."

"Thanks. For the pedestal too."

She could appreciate the silent customer service angle that came from setting this up, without asking, nor saying anything. Not even a sort of *Here you go, shorty* wink. Just direct and thoughtful, without getting cheeky. Considering that they - or Null at least - were about the height of a ten year old, this were good, and the only way that didn't irk her, when she were faced with this kind of thing. The silence made it seem more like she were treated like any normal pony would be, and not some freak of nature, who relied on the pity of others to get through the day.

It were good - and informative - to hear there were a rush in a half hour too. It gave them a time frame for when this place would have the least customers, and also be notified that it were seemingly doing well enough after all. Just a dull start of the day. Would likely be best if they had a chance to get in early then, before the rush, if they were to recommend this place to Dove. But, they'd have to taste the food first.

It looked good. Warm,. cheese seemed melted right, with just a slight burn to it... Smelled like it had a kick to it too, which were likely mostly due to her half. Taking a slice up, she could even see the bread weren't looking doughy. Visually, this were doing well. but it would have to get down to taste.

"Well... Let's eat, and talk, yeah? So... If you wanna try something with more of a kick to it, you can try some of mine. I don't mind.

A-Anyway... You like music? I like the violin. It's soothing. Bagpibes aren't bad either. I find it clears my head."

(Troy)

Considering everything, Void figured that Selena were basically part of the Consul's staff, and as such, might have a seat of power there. And if not, she might be able to get a message to her, or ask where to find her. If anyone would know where to find the mare, surely it would be others higher up in the local law, like she herself were. They were probably in the end, all reporting to her and Illiad, so... The smart choice thus far.

Nothing happened on the way there, except a griffon passing her, that gave her a slightly unnerving look. Nothing like, dangerous, or full of malice. But more a kind of predatory amusement. Maybe she were just imagining things though. It had been a very brief look on the cloaked griffon, as she had come out from a side road, seemingly finishing up some sort of meal, and she didn't stop to say anything. Maybe she were just getting paranoid about this?

...Regardless, she'd still speed up her step, and go wander towards the estate, with her senses up on high alert, as she were somewhat worried right now that she might be followed again. And here she were without her hammer. What were she to do if she got assaulted? Pummel them, likely. She could kick stone apart. A bone weren't a big issue. Especially not with her mass and muscles.

Why were she thinking about this? it were a quiet walk. Just... Take it easy, and keep going, until she reached the consul's door.

If nothing happened, she'd knock three times, and see if anyone responded. if not... Well, she'd have to think of something else then. Maybe there were a guard station or something she could seek out?

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

Arcade patiently waited for Null to take some first, before he realized that he was waiting, "Oh, sorry, I'm used to waiting for the others to eat first... it's weird being on my own now, I hope they're doing well."

Nonetheless, he took up a slice from his side and gave it a curious bite as Null asked her question, "I don't think I've heard enough music to really have a preference, but I'd love to listen to some that you like and see if I like it too. The music they were playing in the casino was interesting, same with the music they had at the party, though I wouldn't be surprised if both of them were enchanted in some way to that effect."

He figured the purpose of this conversation was to alternate with questions, "Not to poke your nerves more, but why do ponies date? What's the end goal, if there even is one?"

 

(Troy)

As luck would have it, Selena came up behind Void as she knocked at the door, "The Consul's out and about today, but I'm pretty sure you're out looking for me. I suppose you have news then of our plans for tomorrow?"

She opened the door to the estate and beckoned for Void to follow her as she led the way up to the chamber where Null had found Illiad managing the sun and moon, the moon itself shining brightly down on them from the upper windows. Selena stood in the moonlight, her form shimmering beautifully as she did, "Well? What did she say?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-29 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade patiently waited for Null to take some first, before he realized that he was waiting, "Oh, sorry, I'm used to waiting for the others to eat first... it's weird being on my own now, I hope they're doing well."

"I'm sure they're fine. The one that send us seems like a nice enough pony. He'll make sure they're welcomed."

She hadn't thought much on the others honestly, but she wanted to hope for the best for them. They seemed like okay foals, and had enough tossed their way already. Let 'em have a chance to grow up into actual adults, instead of eventually dead lab rats.

On 2021-03-29 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Nonetheless, he took up a slice from his side and gave it a curious bite as Null asked her question, "I don't think I've heard enough music to really have a preference, but I'd love to listen to some that you like and see if I like it too. The music they were playing in the casino was interesting, same with the music they had at the party, though I wouldn't be surprised if both of them were enchanted in some way to that effect."

Null took a bite too, and chewed it through a little thoroughly, as she took in the taste. Wasn't something that's make her jump to the roof, nor would declare this the best pizza she ever had, but... Yeah, it were on the good side for sure. A good crunch on the bread, nice heat- Bit uneven cheese distribution, and she could tell, but that was really a minor issue, and just there if you felt like nitpicking.

Overall, she'd consider this to be a meal she'd recommend. Nothing fancy, but good for the price, and the setting were calm. Albeit a little unusual and awkward, due to her and Arcade being on a date. But that had more to do with them, than this place.

"Might've been. Didn't affect me anyway, but you'd have to listen to something like it again elsewhere to get a feel for things, I think. Could be you just liked it however. Not sure you'd like bagpibes though. It's not a commonly loved instrument. Violins are different to most. More classy, from what others say. I just find it soothing. Maybe if you get near a fancy place you'll hear that at some point. They tend to play it for atmosphere those places."

She'd eat a bit more, and thought things seemed fine. And then Arcade had to go and ask something that almost made her freeze solid.

On 2021-03-29 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He figured the purpose of this conversation was to alternate with questions, "Not to poke your nerves more, but why do ponies date? What's the end goal, if there even is one?"

"That's... They sorta... *clears throat* It's to try and see if you like another, y'know? If they do, it can go on to other things sometimes. Dating, marriage, foals... *clears throat* Getting old together, everything. It helps seeing if there's something between two who likes each other, that makes them want to share their lives together. That's the way I understand it anyway. It's not like I ever... Y'know. Tried it."

Her blush increased quite a bit as she nearly whispered the part about having foals. A topic she had frankly never thought would even be taken up, as she assumed she'd die an early death, after making sure Void were okay. Or while defending her sister for that matter. And yet here she now were, on an actual date, with the only pony she could actually say were a good match for her. Though it were way up for debate if he thought the same, that was for sure. Though even if he did, what sorta future could she even offer? A life on the road, seeking vengeance? What sorta life were possible with that hanging on her?

And yet, when she looked at Arcade, it wasn't really something she thought much about. Felt like there were something flickering inside her when she gazed into his eyes. Something shiny, that she didn't often get a to tangle with: Hope. Though it were still small and intangible, there were some small part of her that longed to try, even if logically, he were better off staying away from her.

(Troy)

On 2021-03-29 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

As luck would have it, Selena came up behind Void as she knocked at the door, "The Consul's out and about today, but I'm pretty sure you're out looking for me. I suppose you have news then of our plans for tomorrow?"

Void jumped a little in place, as Selena more or less snuck up on her. How were someone so shiny, so darn stealthy?

"S-Selena I were- I mean, yes. Sorry, you s-startled me."

Not the best start to things huh? Well... At least they had run into each other now, and Void wouldn't have to look all around. That were good, yes? Just had to get her nerves under control. She must've been pretty tense to have been rattled this much, just from someone getting close and talking.

On 2021-03-29 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She opened the door to the estate and beckoned for Void to follow her as she led the way up to the chamber where Null had found Illiad managing the sun and moon, the moon itself shining brightly down on them from the upper windows. Selena stood in the moonlight, her form shimmering beautifully as she did, "Well? What did she say?"

Void didn't answer at first, as her eyes were locked on the silvery disk that formed the moon, shining down upon Selena. It reflected quite beautifully in her crystalline form, though it just highlighted even more how her form was just that. Crystal. Void didn't care about that being a thing, but maybe others might. Not important to bring up right now though, no?

"Mom agreed to do it tomorrow morning, and also, she had some information on the foal that... It's kind of h-horrible. Their names are phonetic versions of their designations. Shortcuts for things, like Ardee coming from RD, referencing Rainbow Dash.

I promised her I'd talk to Ardee about how they might feel about maybe getting name changes, when they eventually get cutie marks at least, but it's... I just don't understand it. How could this *Facility* be such horrible monsters, towards innocent foals? How twisted and cold wouldn't you have to be to treat them so poorly? Wasn't any better when we were f-forced to be there either. Just tried to strip us of our names, and treat us like objects. Whoever ran those places, must have had hearts of stones. And are hopefully no longer alive.

...T-They aren't, r-right?"

She'd look nervously towards Selena as she asked this, afraid to hear differently. because if they were still alive, she seriously doubted the facilities were completely gone either.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"That's... They sorta... *clears throat* It's to try and see if you like another, y'know? If they do, it can go on to other things sometimes. Dating, marriage, foals... *clears throat* Getting old together, everything. It helps seeing if there's something between two who likes each other, that makes them want to share their lives together. That's the way I understand it anyway. It's not like I ever... Y'know. Tried it."

Arcade had an odd expression as Null described her intentions, more or less, in asking him to be her date. It was a mix of confusion, a bit of understanding, and no small amount of awkward.

"Huh..."

It wasn't phrased as a question, but more of a 'That wasn't what I was expecting, and I don't know what to think about that.'

He was silent for a few moments, pondering what she had told him and what it meant. He eventually would look back up at her, making eye contact if she would allow it, "I, er... I think I'd like that. Is... is that what you want? To do those things with me?"

 

(Troy)

Selena didn't have much time to react positively to the news before Void quickly moved on to her more worrying concerns, her face dipping into a face that clearly said Void would be disappointed by what she had to say.

"Were that I could hug you and say that you don't need to worry. But the former is precluded in any case." She sighed as she gathered herself up into a more comfortable posture for speaking. "You must understand, Princess Celestia would do anything to ensure that her little ponies would be safe. That pursuit led her to make a number of... questionable... decisions over the centuries. The Red-Mesa facility was not always a Deep-Science station, it only became one when Las Pegasus left Equestria to join Troy, which was only a couple of years ago." She gave Void a moment to understand the implications before continuing. "That isn't to say Deep Science is wholly without reproach either. While their missing has also been to protect the greater good, we too have sometimes overstepped the mark, traded our morals for security. The Æther Project, where most of the remaining population fled during the incident, was a project of Deep Science, which means that a number of those involved are likely there now, including this Mistress that they spoke of. They'll get what they deserve in good time I and Karma promise you."

She sighed again, "I know that isn't what you wanted to hear. But you can rest assured that they'll never have the opportunity to hurt those ponies again. The Project was cursed to never stop for 25 years, by then those involved will have died or be too old to cause trouble. Still, giving them some distance, even subconsciously, from their past, is a very good idea. Do broach the subject to Ardee, see what she thinks of it, I don't think the others should know about the nature of their names however, it won't do them any good."

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-03-31 at 6:56 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He was silent for a few moments, pondering what she had told him and what it meant. He eventually would look back up at her, making eye contact if she would allow it, "I, er... I think I'd like that. Is... is that what you want? To do those things with me?"

Null went dark red as she heard this, and looked away instantly. H-How could he just say that, out of nowhere? They barely knew each other, and she... She wasn't gonna be there much longer anyway. And soon as he learned what her intentions were anyway, he'd just leave her behind regardless. And even if he didn't, he could do better than her. Who were she anyway? Just a broken shell of a mare, looking to go out and do the only thing she were any good at in this world, before undoubtedly die a painful, lonely death at an early age. Just like she always expected.

She'd sit and berate herself for a little while longer, before a weak, frail voice escaped her. One that carried a tinge of hope, yet caution, and fright towards whoever she were addressing. Like a foal alone at home, creaking the door open to see who were knocking at the door. Were it the nightbor who were supposed to check in on her, while her dad were at work? Or perhaps someone with ill intent, there to cause her harm, like her paranoid brain were telling her?

"...Y-You'd really do that, w-with... Me?"

It were not what went through Null's head, but the analogy were fitting. She were cautiously lowering her guard, and peek out from the barricades she were used to setting up, at whoever were outside, that she wasn't sure about. Usually she ignored these metaphorical *knocks on the door*, but Arcade had gotten to her in ways others hadn't. She understood him, more than she did most, and felt a connection between them. He were cute, and actually cared about her so far, from what she could tell. If ever she had a chance, it would be with him, right?

Yet still, she were cautious, because he still knew so little about her. The Real her, that were. He just knew Horizon, the guard who had been sent by Troy to help protect Dove. Not Null. The daughter who had come to upend a tyranny, after suffering under it for her entire life, both indirectly and directly.

What would he say if he knew her? Knew the broken mess, hiding beneath this shell? Would he still care to be with that? Normally she'd say yes, and her brain were telling her that that were exactly what she should go with. Just push him away, and not think more on this. It saved her from getting hurt later, when he'd reject her for being the imperfect, vengeful fool that she were, or got horrified about what she had to do, and why.

And yet, she felt like she wanted to peek out, and take this chance. A commitment that could end up hurting her, and leave a lasting scar, that'd keep her from trying ever again, potentially. An illogical thing to even try frankly, considering everything that were working against her here, but... Something deep inside of her, still yearned to try this. Perhaps what remained of the happy, hopeful filly she had once been, who thought she had her whole life ahead of her, and endless possibilities. A part that she had thought were torn asunder ages ago, after several traumas had essentially killed her foalhood. Maybe this want- This urge to have this normal sliver of life in her chaotic mess of a life, were proof that there were still something left of that part of her.

It were something to think about another time maybe, but frankly, she didn't think on that at all. She were too busy just being in the moment, amidst all her worries, and this stubborn desire, as she finally made eye contact with Arcade again. No words escaped her, but she would nod silently. Much as this would maybe go wrong, and it were stupid to hope, she'd still like to try this.

(Troy)

"I'm... Not delusional, about Princess Celestia. I know she wasn't perfect, and some of the things we've learned... It makes me wonder about a lot of things. This being... It's really troubling to think about that caring, warm princess I met, setting these kinds of things in motion... I want to think there were a good reason, but the road to Tartarus is paved with good intentions, I think the saying goes."

Void were struggling with this, and felt a little sick, imagining Celestia of all ponies, signing off on this whole thing. What darkness hadn't she been wearing, to even consider it, and much less set it in motion?

All I know is that she wasn't a heartless tyrant, like we were told when we were foals. Flawed though. And I don't agree with some of the things I've learned about her these days. Very much including this, but... *sigh* It's complicated, yet it is a new world. I'm trying to think most should get a chance to show that they've changed with it, and let the past be what it is.

The ones you say went there... They have a long time now, to prove they changed. Far, far away from the foals. They can't hurt them anymore in that time, so that's what matters the most to me. Whatever judgement that comes after, is up to you, but they have a lot of atonement to catch up on, in my opinion. Though I think the one they called mistress, doesn't have as big a weight on her. The way they speak of her... She reminds me of my own parents in that way. Someone who had to watch over others, who couldn't take seeing them go through all of the things they did anymore. I hope she comes back, and I get a chance to meet her when it is. I'd like to know what happened, that changed her mind on this, and let her know what happened to the foals after she left.

But I suppose, that's all far ahead, right? Best to just focus on what we have, and can do, here and now. The future, and what judgement is going to come to them, and... And the princesses, is for you to decide. You'll be able to better tell if she did more good than evil. Maybe when that day comes, I will know what to say to Celestia too, about this."

Hearing they were still alive were not good, but Void found solace in knowing that it would be a long time before they returned. At that point, all the foals would be adults, and should be too far removed from their cruelty to be affected anymore. And if they still had intentions like that, Selena and Illiad - as well as perhaps her sister, if she still had this role in the future - would be there to judge them for it. As it stood right now, the dear foals were safe from that angle at least, and that were in the end, the most important thing. The rest would come in due time. Provided she were still alive at that point, though he had hopes that she would be. A new world awaited now after all, full of possibilities, and she had a stable home too. It were moving along well.

As for Celestia... She'd need to think over this a long, long time. Sadly the world were hardly ever black and white, but more grey, in various shades. It did not make this okay, but there were a lot to swallow with all of this, and she just wasn't able to properly do so right now.

If Celestia had been here now though, she would admit, she had no intention of letting her know where the foals were, or that she had ever even found them. She could not place as much trust in her, knowing this, as she previously had.

-"And I can guarantee you, that I'm not bringing this up anywhere the others could hear it. I don't want them to relive past traumas, or question themselves over things like this. They need love and care, from beings who wants what's best for them. Not the past showed into their faces, but with an even uglier filter. Ardee is dealing with that enough as it is, and the poor filly is hurting because of it. You should see her sometimes when she's talking about it, Selena. She just... I just want to go over and hold her, and never let go again."

Void wasn't playing favorites, but when it came to whom she thought needed attention, and love the most, it were definitely Ardee. The one who knew more than the rest, as she had been there the longest, and suffered even more bluntly under their cruelty. Sometimes when she spoke of that too, Void caught a slight glimpse of what she were actually like, under that tough shell of hers, and she just wanted to embrace the filly, and stroke her main calmly, while telling her that everything were going to be okay. That she were safe now...

Selena would likely be pleased to see Void care so much about them, though who could know for sure? The judge were a mysterious mare, whom Void honestly still knew little about, beyond what were the public front, so she may surprise in a bad way at some point. Though as she seemed to be representing mercy, Void chose to believe that Selena wasn't the sort who'd find joy in abject cruelty, and actively wanted those who needed it, to get better lives. Such as the foals.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

Arcade blushed in response, but nodded, "I can't think of a single good reason why I wouldn't. Can you?"

Around them the restaurant started to liven up a bit as others started to come in, mostly normal ponies and other creatures, and a single smaller mare garbed in the uniform of the Grey, though she had her hood down, the cut blindfold hanging loosely around her neck, the other patrons gave her the occasional glance, but otherwise paid her no mind outside of giving her a bit more distance.

 

(Troy)

Selena smiled and nodded in response to Void's understanding of the situation, "I'm glad to hear that you're so willing to forgive, as similar as you are to your sister, you are also her opposite in many complementary ways. Karma chose well in picking you to care for these foals."

She stretched like a cat before stepping out of the moonlight, some of the glow remaining within her despite having left the moonbeam. "So the foals will get a cursory physical exam from your mother tomorrow, and we'll get some specialists lined up if she thinks they're necessary, depending on the results. Otherwise, is there anything else I can help you with?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle

(New Las Pegasus)

On 2021-04-05 at 4:27 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade blushed in response, but nodded, "I can't think of a single good reason why I wouldn't. Can you?"

She could think of about two dozen, right off the top of her head, but when she opened her muzzle - now talking in a bit more shaking version of her usual voice, but not as frail - objections wasn't what floated out of there.

"...N-No."

She'd eat some in silence, as the restaurant started to get more life to it. Not massively so, as after all, the place wasn't that big, but you could see there were not an issue getting a full house regularly, and there was a nice buzz here. Plenty that could likely take their seat too when they were done with it. Though for that to happen, there sorta had to be some kind of change. And unless Arcade said something first, Null wouldn't do much, until she were about 2-3'ths done with her pizza. Including if she had shared her half with Arcade, in case he also enjoyed the taste.

"So uhm... A-Are you enjoying the food?"

(Troy)

On 2021-04-05 at 4:27 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Selena smiled and nodded in response to Void's understanding of the situation, "I'm glad to hear that you're so willing to forgive, as similar as you are to your sister, you are also her opposite in many complementary ways. Karma chose well in picking you to care for these foals."

"When we were tossed into the world, Null got to see the worst kinds of beings. And she fixated on those, because she were afraid they'd hurt us if she didn't. I tried to look on the good ones out there, even if I couldn't ignore the bad, i wanted to think that most were still good creatures, if you gave them the chance.

I wish she could see the good out there too, and be willing to forgive and forget, but she just can't, and she trying to do what's best, with that in mind. For us. I can't condemn her for that. I'm just sad that I couldn't save her too..."

Void looked as sad as she felt, when she said this. Much as she supported what Null did, and thought her big sister had reason to think as she did, it did not change that she wish it hadn't come to that in the first place. But life had just not been kind enough to make it so. Null had been forced to deal with far too much at an age where the only concern should be math homework, and then on top of that, had to try and be the adult, and raise Void the best she could. It was a tough deal for most to deal with in her opinion, and Null had only been 6. It had been an impossible task to do right for her.

"I just hope she's safe out there. As the foals are, and will be. I couldn't bear letting the poor things get hurt more than they already had."

On 2021-04-05 at 4:27 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She stretched like a cat before stepping out of the moonlight, some of the glow remaining within her despite having left the moonbeam. "So the foals will get a cursory physical exam from your mother tomorrow, and we'll get some specialists lined up if she thinks they're necessary, depending on the results. Otherwise, is there anything else I can help you with?"

Void remained in the shadows, as she looked at the slight glow that remained within Selena. An odd effect, but she supposed, being a magical crystal entity, had to come with some oddities. And this one seemed harmless. Kinda pretty even.

"No, I think that's it. I promised I'd come around and update you when I had her answer, so I just wanted to keep to my word. I should probably go home and get some sleep too. Gonna be much to do tomorrow.

Though uhm... I guess there is something? I think I've been followed recently. I got a letter, where the foals are, from someone I knew way, way back. In Equestria. I don't know who delivered the letter though, as it were just hanging on a thread, once I opened the door where the foals are held. It seems harmless enough, but there might be some sort of outsiders stalking the town. Or me at least. The one I knew are pretty uhm... Eccentric, so it might just be that he sent a courier that's shy, and doesn't like making contact. It's nothing really, since nothing have happened since then, but i guess it doesn't hurt letting you know, now that I have hold of you anyway.

But uhm, I guess, it's time to go home and rest. Have a good night, Selena."

if there were nothing else, Void would give a courteous bow, and then be on her way. She'd like to sleep a bit before the next day came.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(NP)

(She must really be smitten with him if she didn't notice the Grey mare who entered the place.)

Arcade seemed content to join her in the somewhat awkward silence and simple eat his side of the pizza. He gave a cursory bite of some of Null's, but did not go any further than that.

He would eventually get lost in some thought until Null spoke up, "Hmm? Oh, yeah! It's good, better than what I remember at least, and it seems pretty popular with the locals." He gestured around the place at the ever growing crowd of patrons. The Grey mare had gotten her order and was sitting right behind Arcade with her back to the two of them.

He looked over at the bite he had tried of her side, "Your side was very... different. Is it usual for food to hurt when you eat it? I'm not sure I like it much."

 

(Troy)

Selena looked distinctly worried when she mentioned that she had received a notice at where the foals were. "That's... troubling. The curiors only have your shop as your address, that or your parent's place. That building isn't even officially occupied. Whoever left you that note, must have delivered it personally." She sighed, "I'll muster some more guards in the area. I had hoped they wouldn't be necessary, it always draws attention when we move the guards around. I must advise you, if you are to meet this stranger of yours, you can't do so there. Especially if they're from Equestria. I'd like to have Karma personally vouch for their first social encounters, like your mother was."

She wouldn't have anything else to say on that.

Void wouldn't meet any resistance getting home, nor arriving at the foal's house the next morning. At least, not from any Trojans.

Provided she didn't run into any Equestrian difficulties, Vale would be waiting out front for Void to arrive, "They're not up yet, a service pony came by and hooked up the stove earlier, real quiet like. Anyway, is your mother coming today?"