private Deep Science 1x1 with Blitz Boom

Blitz Boom · October 5, 2021

(Void)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Vale nodded, "I thought as much. Being a pilot still uses the wings, but not in the same capacity as flying, so it'd be something she could do without reminding her of who she doesn't want to be."

"The idea just gets better and better, the more you think about it, doesn't it? I'll make sure to find them, and ask them if they'd be willing to meet with her, once everything's cleared. I'm sure I can find some sort of literature on this though, that she could read too, in the meantime. It never hurts to be educated about something, before trying it."

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The foals were certainly curious, though they had enough self restraint to not go rooting about in the bags themselves, as such the note was left undisturbed along with the food, only getting stared at by the foals unless something was held out for them to take.

Peal elected to lie on Void's back for a quick nap after her curiosity about the bags was satisfied.

The rest of the ponies trotted over soon enough, done with their game they were ready to see what was coming next.

She'd not take out something yet, but the little rascals would have something to look forward to soon enough. Even though she almost did, when Peal began having a little nap on her back. It was simply just so adorable, and really warmed her heart since to her, it meant that they felt safe around her. That meant a lot, considering the sort they had to deal with in the past.

It also meant a lot that she were doing this in the first place, since it reminded her of the times where Null had done the same. Oh how she looked forward to seeing her sister again soon. Such tales she must have to tell, of her mission. Hopefully she were okay, and hadn't gotten through this with some kind of new, major injury, though she'd prefer not to think about that. The worry just sadly weren't so easy to let go of.

"Now now, I know you're all curious, but we'll get to dinner soon enough. I need to prepare something here first though. Could one of you please get me a pot?"

She'd pull the thing she had in mind up from the back: A gnarled, bulbous root, as dark as charcoal, and the size of a small ball. Had this been fully grown, it would have easily been at least three times bigger, but she had elected for one of the smaller ones, as it took less time to boil. Had it been one of the big ones, it'd take upwards twenty hours. This one could be done in three. Which were still some time, but it would be worth it. Though that were only if she wanted it whole, which tended to only be the case for stews, where this came in after fully prepared, and sat there for a while to soak out a nice flavor into the dish, before getting discarded. She were going to chop it up though, and have it simmer peacefully, along with a few of the reeds she had use din the past to stir a pot. Could be done in an hour like this.

Blackroot were a harsh one to work with. Hard and chewy like a pair of clogs, if it weren't done right, and tasting like the inside of a gym bag, laced with chili. It took patience to make ir work right, but if you had it, you'd get a chewy, very meaty vegetable, that were abundant in nutrients. And the best thing were, that it were fairly common in the desert. Just had to look for the seemingly dead bushes with a red, leathery flower near the ground, and you'd have your target.

She were planning on having it served in a mush, that'd function as dipping sauce for what else she were going to present. Of which she had plenty other things to get to work with too as well, but first,. it were getting a pot, and then show them how to properly chop this up into small cubes. Which considering how hard it were, would require her to ask them to stand back, whilst she slowly, and with great effort, went through the motions of cutting this one out.

(Null)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The shadow wings retracted and returned back under the Consul's natural ones, "That is certainly news. Typically agents of Vengeance, such as you and I, receive a Shadow Specter to serve as a connection to Vengeance and as a link to the powers granted by the same. Nibiru was the one granted to Grey Mane when he first founded the Grey, it became bound to the same curse and tradition as the rest of the family, but does not cause it. Epsilon accepting Nibiru in addition to becoming the Grey Mare most likely means that she has agreed, like yourself, to serve Vengeance. If she decided to stop serving Vengeance, Nibiru would leave her and seek a new host, but she would still be the Grey Mare."

He sighed, "I have tried to destroy the Grey, but fighting against those loyal to a god as ancient as Phi is no small task. You were lucky enough to get disowned. I don't think Phi will be easily convinced to release the last member of the last family that serves them."

"It's a big world, and there are many gods. You'd be surprised what some of them could be convinced to do, for the right price."

The Consul were widely aware of things, that much was pretty clear, but Null felt like she had seen enough to know some things he didn't. Including the location of various gods. Though she'd need to revisit some of them, as it wasn't all who'd have kept strong over the last few years, as lesser gods required constant worship for power. Stronger ones, could do well with what they had for centuries before losing even a small amount, and the truly great ones, cared little for worship. It were little more than acceptance of their superiority to them. Though those gods tended to not care much for mortal matters, unless it directly involved them.

As for the situation with the little inner partners of theirs... Well, she first off were not a fan of how Nine had popped out, but the alternative with how it looked for Illiad were worse. Perhaps it would eventually go that way for them too, once they had more of a symbiotic relationship? Well, they'd see. Might not be so bad or whatever. She were frankly more interested in the contest though, where they talked about what were going on, and who she had to hunt for. That she were also part of vengeance's little passe though, were unexpected, and frankly, irritating.

"As for Epsilon, I'm not happy she's part of Vengeance. But that's her own choice. My target is Phi. I'll figure out some way to deal with whatever kind of god that thing that is. Don't care she says we're disowned. She could die without having any foals of her own, and it'd get passed on regardless of what we think. What about if Void had foals, and they'd end up taking the deal? Or-"

She'd cast a glance at Arcade and blush, looking away quickly again, with her eyes turned away from them both.

"A-Anyway, she's still blood, and she needs saving. She's not looking as rotten as he were. Not yet.

What's this about Nibiru though? Why does it sound like you thought that one was dead?"

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He nodded, "Yes, the Scout, we'll do what we can to apprehend him, see that he is properly punished for his crimes, but he is one of the most successful killers in Equestria's history. I could go on about his exploits, but I doubt you brought him up because you were interested in hearing his history. Although... if you decide to continue with Vengeance now that your personal vendettas are resolved, you may be assigned to deal with him."

"There's still a lot of bad blood to deal with out there, and some of them, are gonna be some I personally would like to see pay for their little games. The job's not over just because Grey Mane is. Least I don't think so. I... We, are gonna have a talk about that later."

She'd look at Arcade again when she said this, but her blush were diminishing rapidly, and she kept her eyes on him this time. This were going to be something she'd want his input on. Personally she'd think she had only just started what were probably a long term commitment, but with how things were going, he had to be heard too on this. Sure he'd given her some input on his stance thus far, but with there being an option now, they had to talk it over. She hoped he'd think it was good they went out there though. She had a world she'd like to show him, even if it was torn up, and looking a little rough right now.

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He went to take a drink from his mug, then looked into it and sighed before setting it down empty, "If that's all, I think it's high time you saw your parents. No doubt you want to introduce them to your coltfriend before you marry him." He smirked.

And there he went, aggravating another blush, though on this, she'd turn to look right at him, with somewhat red cheeks, and narrow, annoyed eyes. She wouldn't outright threaten him, but that came down a lot to the fact that she could now be annihilated by some of his magic, and she wasn't feeling thrilled about that idea. So she'd be more thoughtful in her response... To a certain extend.

"That's none of your... Grrr. No, I'm not going there first. I need to see my sister, and Arcade have a family to see too. Where can we find them? I'm pretty sure you haven't gotten them somewhere in plain sight,"

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He sighed, "That said, I trust your judgement that she would be a good fit for the position. Provided her pride can be kept in check. What we'll need is for her to come to you, offer herself for the position, rather than have you ask her. Besides, there may yet be a better option among the ponies here in town, and integrating with a few trusted ponies can only help our image in town. My reccomendation would be then, once we've examined the property, to send out an advertisement for the position, make sure she sees it, and wait for her to come to you and ask for it. If she doesn't, then we'll no doubt encounter a number of willing applicants we can try in the mean time. I doubt that everyone who worked in the casino before were killed, so those who remain would no doubt be grateful to get their jobs back."

On 2021-10-04 at 7:16 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin nodded, "Best to go while the sun is high, disguised, and be back before it sets. I'll meet you out front once you've gathered those you think would do a good job."

"Oh, I wasn't going to kick everyone out of there. Most of the workers are probably lovely beings, who'd do an excellent job. I just think we need a little less of the more uhm... Sadistic sorts, that tend to sometimes crawl into these places. And I like your idea of how to get to her. I was planning on just go there, and talk it out with her. I wasn't actually gonna beg her, just offer her a chance to do something I know she's good at, long as she knew there were a layer over her. Yours is better. She's gonna have to swallow her pride and apply like everyone else, and I know she does. She may have too much pride to beg for a job, but she has even more pride in her own abilities. If she thinks she can do better, she'll chase after a chance to prove that, over her little thing with me.

Pride changelings are a weird sort, but it sounds like you know well how to deal with them. I disagree though, that giving someone praise means you owe them something. I see it more as acknowledgement of a task well done.

And speaking of a task, I have some changelings to gather up. I'll see ya soon."

She'd spin around herself in a little pirouette, and then wander determined towards the door. There were a lot to do now, and she had to get to work on getting it done, before the sun set.

It'd be about twelve minutes, before she came over with four changelings, and a cat. The changelings were not wearing clothing like those of Hive Cheshire, but they were still distinct in several ways.

One had a large gash on his back, showing that apparently, one had attempted to crack him open sometime in the past. The scar going over his right, blinded eye, as well as the various ones on his legs and torso, also told of the fact that it had not been a short amount of fighting he had done. One of their few guards, and likely their most intimidating too, as he on top of this, were also a large, burly fellow, carrying around a large, curved axe. Immaculately clean, of course. He did guarding around where he were needed, but it was rare he had to bloody himself.

The second were a smaller, shifty looking changeling, looking at Rasputin with a searching gaze, analyzing the king now that he could see him up close. Rasputin had likely seen this one do so from a distance other times before, with a notepad in hoof, but he had not approached or said anything to the king previously. He still wouldn't talk, on behalf of him missing a tongue, but he would greet with a proper bow. Normally they'd communicate in writing, or hoof language when it came to him, and it did well. He still had his notepad, as well as a fanny pack, with something unseen weighing in it.

The third were a regular looking changeling. Not damaged like the first two, nor overly concerned about Rasputin. In fact, she seemed a little like she were in a haze. Though Rasputin weren't dumb. He could likely see it was an act. Made everyone think she were just a ditz, going around doing nothing. Yet she were one of their best infiltrators. A profession with not too many uses in this place, but the things she saw and heard sometimes. As well as did, but Bling very specifically did not want to know. She had asked once, and gotten a sudden, very predatory gaze from the changeling for a brief moment. She got the hint that some things, she were best of not knowing.

The fourth changeling were wearing round, brown glasses, and had some saddlebags, in which one could see some various things, such as rope, and crystals. He also appeared to be rather nervous, and would react on various sounds by turning his head towards them quickly, to see what it were. He wasn't much worth in a fight, but when it came to finding traps, his paranoia tended to actually help them. His old hive had tossed him out for being unproductive, though in this town, he tended to work on security systems here and there, though he only did that for a little coin when needed. He did not like dealing with businesses here in town often. A lot of potentially scary ones there. He'd be rather close to the big guy, whom seemed to give him a small degree of comfort in his presence, though the big one seemed utterly indifferent.

The cat were a little beige tabby, sitting on the back of the ditzy mare. It were obviously a changeling, but this one were good at hiding that little fact, so most regular ones, wouldn't know. Something this changeling took great care in making sure were the case, as it helped to sneak around without issues. This were the changeling who had yearned to get to a high spot in town, and now that the status of the hive were suddenly about to get up - and because Rasputin were here, and she wanted to know more - she were being around to be extra helpful. Since the siege, that were by mostly delivering food around. She knew all the good places to be, and not to be, so she were perfect for the job.

"Okay then, that should be them all. In order, this is Bruce, Nitpicker, Aroma, Twitchy Pete, and the little one here is Nightingale. She'll make sure we'll get there safely.

Now come on everyone, in disguises."

A flash of colors later, and the five that had not changed shape, would have done so. Bling looked so utterly mundane that nothing really seemed to stand out, Bruce were looking like a guard, while the rest just looked like locals, or tourists, that had come at a bad time. A small clearing of the throat from Bling later though, he'd change once more, and now looking like a standard sized, bored teenage griffon.

"I don't like hiding my axe. We'll look like easy prey."

"I know you worry, but we'll get through this. Just hide it like you usually do, and we'll get this done with quickly, okay? There's some good, hidden paths we can take to stay out of sight."

He'd grunt, but put down an illusion spell to make the axe just look like a backpack, and put it on his back.

Illiad Easle · October 6, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

(I'll keep this one short as it looks like Null is about to appear here)
The young ones were attentive to Void's instructions, grabbing whatever utensils she asked for, and helping in whatever way they could while all watching and listening, learning whatever Void would teach them about the dish she was preparing.

(Null)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"It's a big world, and there are many gods. You'd be surprised what some of them could be convinced to do, for the right price."

The Consul sighed, "Until recently you and your sister were still paying the debt incurred by your ancestor to Phi. I fear it will still be many generations still until the full debt is repaid. The debt could very well be until the family line ends. Gods do not typically make fair deals with mortals after all."

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"As for Epsilon, I'm not happy she's part of Vengeance. But that's her own choice. My target is Phi. I'll figure out some way to deal with whatever kind of god that thing that is. Don't care she says we're disowned. She could die without having any foals of her own, and it'd get passed on regardless of what we think. What about if Void had foals, and they'd end up taking the deal? Or-"

He raised an eyebrow, "The fact that the two of you no longer suffer the curse is proof enough that you are free from Phi's bounds. You and any future descendants you have are safe, provided they don't enter into a new agreement with Phi, but for now they are at the same risk of getting bound to any other god. Regardless, I can see I won't be able to dissuade you from this goal. I wish you the best of luck."

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

What's this about Nibiru though? Why does it sound like you thought that one was dead?"

He sighed, "Before I became the avatar of Vengeance, the Grey held the mantle in interim, and were entrusted with Nibiru to assist them. Keep in mind I was a unicorn back then, not even an important one, so when Karma chose me to be the avatar... Grey Mane was less than pleased. He refused to fall in line and take orders from me. He cast Nibiru out, at midday, in the middle of the desert."

Nine added commentary "We can't survive in direct sunlight for long. It burns us in the short term, and will kill us with enough exposure."

The Consul continued, "As such we believed that Nibiru was no more. The fact that they survived is quite the feat. Perhaps more likely is that another specter has taken their name, or they had split themselves prior to getting cast out, whatever the circumstances it doesn't change that Epsilon has potentially accepted Vengeance, and I'll need to go and initiate her properly."

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"That's none of your... Grrr. No, I'm not going there first. I need to see my sister, and Arcade have a family to see too. Where can we find them? I'm pretty sure you haven't gotten them somewhere in plain sight,"

He chuckled, "The love the two of you share is blatant, even if I weren't empathic I'd've seen it from the top of the wall." He stood from the table, "I'll have a guard escort the two of you over, I think they'll all be excited to see you. Follow me."

He led the way out of the dining room as servants moved to clear off the table behind them. In the foyer he spoke to a guard, one Null might recognize as the one she had told about Elef's vampirism. Regardless, she recognized Null, and came over to them, "Good to see the two of you made it out safely, the foals will no doubt be happy to see you again."

Arcade spoke up, "Did they-"

The guard held up a hoof, "They are all fine, more than fine even. Elef has practically been wholly accepted by the other thestrals here, and the others appear to be thriving under Void and Vale's instruction and care. Still, you'll get to see for yourself soon enough."

With that she led the way out into the city, taking care to stick to the less common roads until they stood in front of the building the foals were staying in. "Well, here we are. Go on in, first door on the left. I'm sure you can find your way back when you're done."

(Changelings)

Rasputin looked over the changelings Bling had selected with an appraising eye, then once they had disguised he examined them for flaws before nodding, "You'll do." With a roll of his own icy fire he donned his own disguise, distinctly regal, but nowhere near the level he had been when he first entered town. As it was he more closely resembled a confident gambler than a dignitary. "Let's get moving then."

He would lead the way, walking a short distance ahead of the group unless Bling moved to join him up front. They were about halfway to the town center when they were accosted by none other than the Baltimare Basher himself, "Well well well, what do we have here?"

"Scout."

The Basher froze, and turned his attention to Rasputin, "Ah jeeze"

"Go home."

He looked conflicted for a moment before he turned and left the alley, grumbling to himself the whole way, "Un FREAKING believable, I CANNOT believe this. This is a real freaking embarrassment."

Rasputin sighed once the Basher was far enough off, "That colt... If I hadn't promised his mother I swear." He shook it off and kept moving, getting them to the casino without any further issues.

At the door they were stopped by a guard, "Sorry folks, the Tops is closed until the new management arrives. You'll have better luck at the Æther-"

Rasputin stopped the guard, "You see, we're the new management." He motioned for Bling to show the deed, upon which the guard would nod and step aside,

"Apologies, go on in."

Inside the casino the house lights were on, lighting everything brighter than usual, as a few members of the odd staff milled about cleaning and doing general maintenance on the place. One of the ponies at the front desk looked surprised to see them, "You're the new management? I was told to expect changelings... Though I suppose you all could just be in disguise. Would you like a tour of the facilities? To meet the staff that's still here?"

Blitz Boom · October 8, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

It were pretty simple things she had them do, with preparations for dinner, and making sure that knives were kept out of reach of the small ones. As they could not semi-fly and use a bit of magic, she had to keep that in a drawer until needed, and even then, keep a close eye likely, but she would, and they'd proceed with things nice and calmly, until their guests would arrive.

(Null)

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The Consul sighed, "Until recently you and your sister were still paying the debt incurred by your ancestor to Phi. I fear it will still be many generations still until the full debt is repaid. The debt could very well be until the family line ends. Gods do not typically make fair deals with mortals after all."

"Like I said: There's many gods, and for better or worse, some of them are aware of Void and I. Bound to happen when you start meddling enough. Same goes for demigods, but they're not high enough up the food chain for this. Might be one can link us though. Unfortunately have at least one who thinks somewhat fondly of us. Including one we accidentally freed. A fair few lot more who'd instead like us burning in a pit. Guess we'll see who's still alive and kicking."

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He raised an eyebrow, "The fact that the two of you no longer suffer the curse is proof enough that you are free from Phi's bounds. You and any future descendants you have are safe, provided they don't enter into a new agreement with Phi, but for now they are at the same risk of getting bound to any other god. Regardless, I can see I won't be able to dissuade you from this goal. I wish you the best of luck."

"If she dies, without descendants, Phi would search down the line, and find someone that'd say yes. You said it yourself, that he wasn't gonna let go of this family that easily. Neither am I. Just gonna have to see who's the most stubborn then."

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He sighed, "Before I became the avatar of Vengeance, the Grey held the mantle in interim, and were entrusted with Nibiru to assist them. Keep in mind I was a unicorn back then, not even an important one, so when Karma chose me to be the avatar... Grey Mane was less than pleased. He refused to fall in line and take orders from me. He cast Nibiru out, at midday, in the middle of the desert."

Nine added commentary "We can't survive in direct sunlight for long. It burns us in the short term, and will kill us with enough exposure."

The Consul continued, "As such we believed that Nibiru was no more. The fact that they survived is quite the feat. Perhaps more likely is that another specter has taken their name, or they had split themselves prior to getting cast out, whatever the circumstances it doesn't change that Epsilon has potentially accepted Vengeance, and I'll need to go and initiate her properly."

"Guess you have your own family mystery to sort out there. Hope for you it's the real one, and not just a pretender. Who knows? Maybe he got stuck to an animal that came by, so he could get some shade. Whatever it ends up being, he best be treating Epsilon right."

"That's not just killing, that's torture. Bloody disgraceful. Might be I'd sincerely want to kick you in the face more than once, but that ain't meaning I'd leave you stranded like this. That's some petty, cruel behavior."

Null had wished death for quite a few, but killing them via slow torture, were simply going too far. She hadn't the foggiest about what be going on with Nibiru, but least she knew that Nine wouldn't be treated like this. She'd never go to such depths. Even if he was a massive twonk sometimes, and could use a throttling, but so were she. Guess they fit together in a way then.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He chuckled, "The love the two of you share is blatant, even if I weren't empathic I'd've seen it from the top of the wall." He stood from the table, "I'll have a guard escort the two of you over, I think they'll all be excited to see you. Follow me."

He led the way out of the dining room as servants moved to clear off the table behind them. In the foyer he spoke to a guard, one Null might recognize as the one she had told about Elef's vampirism. Regardless, she recognized Null, and came over to them, "Good to see the two of you made it out safely, the foals will no doubt be happy to see you again."

"Keep it to yourself. I don't want to go waving a flag around over this. Let's just get going. I'm sure sis is halfway freaked out about this whole sensory thing going on."

She'd follow along with the consul, annoyed that apparently, it were obvious between Arcade and her. She did not like being read like this. Felt like she were being scrutinized for some reason, and that were not something that usually made her feel all too comfy. Sure Illiad seemed so far like a good stallion, but this were a long time, ingrained kind of thing. Arcade were the only one she had opened up mostly full too, beyond her sister. Though for them both, she had tried to avoid talking about her self-destructive nature, or suicidal thoughts too much.

As they finally went along, she'd recognize the guard alright. Seemed she were still alive and trusted, so that had to mean that she were doing well with Elef, she'd imagine. That was good. She hadn't thought much of the foals, as she had been busy with all other sorts of things, but it were good to see that he were likely taken care of too. Hopefully eating his friend hadn't made him a total wreck. Which admittedly, was a weird thought to have.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade spoke up, "Did they-"

The guard held up a hoof, "They are all fine, more than fine even. Elef has practically been wholly accepted by the other thestrals here, and the others appear to be thriving under Void and Vale's instruction and care. Still, you'll get to see for yourself soon enough."

With that she led the way out into the city, taking care to stick to the less common roads until they stood in front of the building the foals were staying in. "Well, here we are. Go on in, first door on the left. I'm sure you can find your way back when you're done."

Sounded indeed like Elef were handled well, though it surprised her to hear he were presented for other thestrals. Null had assumed they'd all be hidden away, more or less. But they were socializing? She'd have to ask her sister how that were going. Probably good. You could always count on Void.

Wouldn't be too much of a walk either, before they stood at a seemingly regular building, without anything really standing out. Probably for the best, all things considered.

Null would barely have gotten the direction as to where to go in there, before she were on the way. At first just walking determined, but then eventually setting into a run, and not halt until she were over there, and almost barged through the door. She hadn't been away from Void this long before, and she really wanted to see her again, okay? Sue her.

Though she didn't go that far. She'd halt, and rise her hoof up so that she could grab hold, her heart pounding away in her chest. And meanwhile, inside the room, Void suddenly stopped, as she were almost done chopping the blackroot, and looked around. It was odd, but she almost could've sworn she felt... No, that was impossible. It'd be days still, right? Wasn't exactly a short trip, from what she understood.

And then, Null opened the door, and wandered in. The two would lock eyes, and for a moment, there'd be nothing. Simply silence. Yet the moment would quickly pass, and Null would rush towards her, meeting near the kitchen, in a tight embrace. Neither were saying anything right now, but even though Null were being near crushed by her sister's muscular grip, she didn't care. She were just grabbing hold of Void as best she could, with a smile on her lip, whilst her little sister cried silently, with a big, happy smile of her own. They'd get to talking soon enough, but right now. They needed to have this moment first.

Normally Void would run over to her sister too, but she still had a little passenger that she needed to think about here, so she couldn't just do that.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"You'll do."

"Oh, I so love being underestimated. It makes me all tingly inside."

Aroma let out a small giggle, and wriggled her eyebrows at the king. She knew as well as him, that he were stronger than her. But that didn't mean that she, or the others, were useless. Not even Twitchy Pete were a bad pick when things began getting heated, though he had mostly been picked due to him being proficient at detecting traps, magical and physical alike. His paranoia also tended to help in not falling for obvious things, so that was useful for their predicament as well.

"Don't hassle her advisor."

"Is that what they call them these days?"

She'd smirk at Bruce, who even for a griffon right now, did not look thrilled. But they generally tended to butt heads. Frankly, Bruce were only joining because Bling had asked him, and she had always treated him with respect, and kindness. Even when he staggered halfdead into town, and frantically were swinging around himself, delusional and thinking he were still being attacked. He'd ended up attacking her when she approached, but she never held that against him. She understood the position he had been in, and when she came to, her first question were is he were okay. He'd go to any lengths for her. Including tolerating Aroma.

As for her, she mainly joined because she were bored, and this sounded like fun. That she could annoy Bruce at the same time, were just icing on top.

As they moved into town - Bling placed in the middle - Nightingale would direct them towards the best route possible. Which included a surprisingly large number of open streets. Yet as she said, the side alleys were often points of attack, and general turmoil. It had gotten even worse now, so it were best to avoid most of them. Though there were a few places where she had them go through there still, to get a more secure path towards their destination. It were not a short cut really, but the point weren't getting there fast. It were getting there safe.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Scout."

The Basher froze, and turned his attention to Rasputin, "Ah jeeze"

"Go home."

He looked conflicted for a moment before he turned and left the alley, grumbling to himself the whole way, "Un FREAKING believable, I CANNOT believe this. This is a real freaking embarrassment."

Rasputin sighed once the Basher was far enough off, "That colt... If I hadn't promised his mother I swear." He shook it off and kept moving, getting them to the casino without any further issues.

"You know those cases where you're curious, but at the same time, you're pretty sure you don't want to know? I think I'm having that sorta moment right now."

As Basher had confronted them, the various changelings had reacted in varied ways. Nightingale and Aroma just stood still, whistling slightly as they looked at their *guest*. Nightingale was not surprised there'd be one on their path, as one were bound to, with a larger group like this, but she did not know this ones affiliation. So she'd just sit where she were, and be a cat, on Aroma's back. Twitchy nudged towards Bruce, thinking this were about to become real bad news, and Bruce stepped in front of Bling, narrowing his eyes at this one. Less intimidating as he was looking like a griffon youth, but that could change, if this one did not back off.

The whole thing were resolved by Rasputin though, who seemed to know this one. They had questions, but for now, it were best to go on. Although Nitpicker would have said something, had they not started to wander along, before he could write something down. It would have to wait for later, it seemed.

On 2021-10-06 at 7:12 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin stopped the guard, "You see, we're the new management." He motioned for Bling to show the deed, upon which the guard would nod and step aside,

"Apologies, go on in."

Inside the casino the house lights were on, lighting everything brighter than usual, as a few members of the odd staff milled about cleaning and doing general maintenance on the place. One of the ponies at the front desk looked surprised to see them, "You're the new management? I was told to expect changelings... Though I suppose you all could just be in disguise. Would you like a tour of the facilities? To meet the staff that's still here?"

Bling were still baffled that this were real. But the casino indeed looked closed, and the deed gave them access as it were presented. Were this really happening? Gosh. There'd be a lot of things to handle here, she were sure of it.

Going inside, Bling's face lit up a little, as she saw the clerk. She remembered this one. Always seemed like a nice pony when she had come around rarely, or heard about other changelings interacting. It would be nice to have this one around with them.

"No worries, we are changelings."

She'd prove this, by dropping her disguise. The others - Rasputin perhaps not, and only into another costume, looking like a changeling drone, or something - would follow troop, one by one. Except Nightingale. She'd stay a cat, and lay down, tail waving and letting out a big ol' yawn.

"If you don't mind, I like my costume for now."

Aroma wasn't gonna argue, and rose a hoof to pet her fellow changeling. Nightingale had to focus to not purr, but she managed to get through it, and simply just laid there, observing from her kin's back.

"And we'd love a tour, and to meet whatever staff is here. And don't be worried. We'll run interviews with whoever is still working for this place, but unless something goes really bad, I don't think there's gonna be a ton of replacements. It's nice to have experienced creatures, knowing what they're doing.

But please, would you mind showing us around? Let us know a little about what's here, what's gone, and just you know, generally have a nice view of things. I never really took a big tour of this place before."

He probably knew who Bling were to some degree, even if she hadn't been here much, since she didn't gamble. She were all around town, helping out with other changelings, so it were hard to not have seen her at some point. As well as hear things, but it depended on how much you cared about the local changelings.

Illiad Easle · October 9, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

The other ponies in the room were surprised by Null's sudden intrusion to the house, Ardee, Teal, Toupé, and Elef instinctively taking defensive positions, which included Teal and Toupé scooping up their respective foals while the other two jumped in front.

It took them a bit to recognize exactly who had barged in, and that they were not a threat, specifically when Arcade somewhat sheepishly trotted in behind Null. Once the young ponies saw him they relaxed their guard and made their way over to him, all except Ardee, who instead simply sat where she had jumped to guard, and eyed the pair of tearful reunions with a somewhat cool expression.

Eventually Ardee extricated himself from the others and came over to Ardee, but she spoke first:

"You left us, left me alone with them."

He sighed, "I know, and I'm sorry, but she saved our lives, and I had to return the favor somehow."

Adree relented, drawing him into a hug, "You're not allowed to leave again, not until they are all taken care of, like you promised Mistress you would."

He nodded, "I won't. I'd sooner die several times than leave you all on your own again. Still, you all look like you're doing well for yourselves. Your own proper place? I haven't seen the foals so happy in... well, ever."

(Changelings)

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Is that what they call them these days?"

Rasputin fixed her with a direct stare, "I suppose you think that was terribly clever?" He considered several gruesome threats that he might lay upon the insolent changeling, but ultimately decided that his clear displeasure would likely be sufficient to dissuade any further sass without the threat of mutilation.

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"You know those cases where you're curious, but at the same time, you're pretty sure you don't want to know? I think I'm having that sorta moment right now."

Rasputin smirked a bit at that once the Basher was far enough off, but neglected to elaborate on the situation.

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"No worries, we are changelings."

Rasputin remained disguised, directing his attention towards the corners and shadows of the casino, searching for traps and hidden attackers.

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

But please, would you mind showing us around? Let us know a little about what's here, what's gone, and just you know, generally have a nice view of things. I never really took a big tour of this place before."

The front desk worker who had approached them nodded. A bit nervous, but to his credit still well composed, he stepped out from behind the desk to take position in front of them to lead the tour, "Well to start, I'm Ace, I am one of the front of house managers, in charge of keeping the wrong sort out of the casino and keeping guests inside for as long as possible by minimizing conflicts, encouraging return business, and offering calculated incentives to keep patrons gambling. I personally vouch for every member of the floor staff who are still around as reliable, honest, and loyal, because House did not tolerate cheaters in the slightest." He then led them through the same tour he had led Null and Arcade through the week prior, minus the active gambling floor and the mention of Cabinet Mare, which had been removed from it's previous position. A key difference is this time he talked about the items more in business terms rather than entertainment. Listing out which games and attractions had previously been very profitable for the casino and which had slimmer margins. He spoke well of all the staff members he introduced or who introduced themselves along their tour.

He concluded the tour in House's old office, where a number of official papers sat ready for her to review, "Well, that's about it. I hope we'll be able to work together going forward. If there's anything you need, you need only ask."

Blitz Boom · October 10, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

"I w-was so worried, b-big sis. It was h-him, and you went r-right after him. And t-then this c-curse it... It f-feels weird."

"...Choking..."

Null were feeling a lot of things right now, but one of the more encroaching ones, were a light-headed sensation, as she couldn't breathe right now. Another *perk* of their size differences. And one that Void thankfully listened to, and relented her strength a little, to allow Null to take a few deep gasps of air in.

"S-Sorry. I just..."

"I missed you too, sis. But it's fine, okay? He's gone, and the curse with him. We're free."

"The c-consul said family had to t-take over for the Grey. Do we have-"

"It's over."

"Sis, don't l-lie to me. Do we have more family?"

Void would pull her sister out, and grab both sides of her face, so she couldn't look away from her. Face to face, she knew that Null couldn't lie to her. She had too many obvious signs, when she were dealing with her sister in that manner.

"...Her name is Epsilon. She were offered a choice, and I... Couldn't save her."

Void would pull Null back in again, this time for a more gentle hug, with Null nearly vanishing in her grasp. The tears she felt on her chest were one reason for her to cover her sister, so she could cry without others seeing it. Null were a prideful sort. She didn't want to be seen as weak, but this were about family. It couldn't help but hurt her, and make the outer layer crack away a little.

"But you saved us. I know you'd like to think you can protect all of us, big sis, but you can' do everything. You did the best you could."

While Null were *clearing her system some, in the warm, safe embrace of her sister, Void would look over towards Arcade,, who were having a moment of his own, with Ardee. It seems there were promises between them too. A little spark too, perhaps? They seemed to be close at least.

It were odd seeing one that reminded her so much of her sister, but maybe that had been what really helped them get along too. She'd like to hear more, but for now, she'd just wait for the two of them to be done speaking, before saying something of her own, towards the small unicorn, with the odd horn. A detail the foals certainly hadn't been kidding about, when they showed a picture of him earlier.

"Arcade? I have a lot of things I'd like to say, and ask, but more than anything else... Thank you, for taking care of my sister."

It'd be the first time Arcade had seen her, and he may have some words of his own, about how different, yet similar she seemed to Null. Not just the size of her, which even for an earth pony mare, were rather large. But also how Null and her differed in how they acted around others. Were Null were more cold and hardened, Void were more open and warm, without trying to hide things, or put up a facade. Her injuries were of course, also different, with the dark wooden back leg, and her eye, though he may not see the part about her eye, unless he focused hard, and noted how the light reflected a little differently off of her false one.

They may have things to talk about indeed, but right now, it were all a nice, big family gathering.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-09 at 8:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin fixed her with a direct stare, "I suppose you think that was terribly clever?" He considered several gruesome threats that he might lay upon the insolent changeling, but ultimately decided that his clear displeasure would likely be sufficient to dissuade any further sass without the threat of mutilation.

"Now now, let's not get all riled up. I'm just teasing Bruce, because I know this irks him. Our fun little games you know? But if it rubs you the wrong way, then sure, I will find another angle to go with. Don't wish to cause offense to Rasputin himself."

"Aroma, be civil. I know you're not one to take orders here, but if you don't behave towards the others - including Rasputin - I'll leave you here, and take Jam Hoarder instead."

That comment made Aroma's smile faint a little, and she'd stay silent for the rest of the trip, beyond a little low whistling at times. Jam and her had a rivalry of sorts, so it were a feather in her hat, that Aroma had been picked for this, over him. Yet if she were the left behind, and he were taken in her place... That would sting quite substantially. Enough to make her correct course.

Bling did not threaten, as Aroma knew well that if it came down to it, she could snap Bling's neck faster than she could formulate a word. But she did know the pressure points to ensure that the ditzy looking changeling scout were listening, and understanding that there could be consequences that did not involve fighting, yet could hurt more.

On 2021-10-09 at 8:35 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The front desk worker who had approached them nodded. A bit nervous, but to his credit still well composed, he stepped out from behind the desk to take position in front of them to lead the tour, "Well to start, I'm Ace, I am one of the front of house managers, in charge of keeping the wrong sort out of the casino and keeping guests inside for as long as possible by minimizing conflicts, encouraging return business, and offering calculated incentives to keep patrons gambling. I personally vouch for every member of the floor staff who are still around as reliable, honest, and loyal, because House did not tolerate cheaters in the slightest." He then led them through the same tour he had led Null and Arcade through the week prior, minus the active gambling floor and the mention of Cabinet Mare, which had been removed from it's previous position. A key difference is this time he talked about the items more in business terms rather than entertainment. Listing out which games and attractions had previously been very profitable for the casino and which had slimmer margins. He spoke well of all the staff members he introduced or who introduced themselves along their tour.

He concluded the tour in House's old office, where a number of official papers sat ready for her to review, "Well, that's about it. I hope we'll be able to work together going forward. If there's anything you need, you need only ask."

Bling had big eyes as they wandered through the casino, and followed along without a sound, nor without halting. Ace were doing a good job of explaining things as they went along, and presenting both beings, and the various floors, functions, and whatever objects they encountered. Somewhat clinical, as there were talks on profitability, but that too was important, if they were to run this place again. They'd need to run some wanted adds out, especially for a general manager and accountant she assumed, but it were good that they already had some staff. All of whom seemed nice and by the introduction, served important functions, that it were good to already have experienced beings at. And she very much included custodian workers there. There really wasn't enough respect for the cleaners, dish washers, plumbers, and waiters, in her opinion. They may seem small and inconsequential to some, but try to imagine if they weren't there. No food would be served, the place would be dirty as all hay. The pipes would be overflowing, and the whole place would be a rat-infested dumb within two weeks. You to treat those who made the wheels turn properly with respect, from top to bottom.

She did slow down and halt as they got near the theater. A small smile spread on her face, as she briefly imagined the things one could do on a scene like that. Not just them, but entertainers of many kinds. Like it were supposed to be, and had been, back in the golden days. That would be her most important project honestly. To return this place to its glory. Surely there'd be some performers dying to go here, if only they got the word out. Maybe even in Troy? If the ambassador were any indicator, they had a link with them now. Might mean they could get some of their locals here, and some were performers.

But such glorious ideas and dreams, would have to wait. For now, the tour went on, and there were more to see. Nothing with back rooms though. Or at least not seemingly hidden ones. Might mean there were none, but ergh... She doubted it. The casinos had reputations for their room for cheaters, for example. And she didn't imagine there weren't some rooms they used, or had used, for less than good things in general. Like hoarding goods that wasn't supposed to be there. Which would be a practice that whomever got the job of managing the casino, would be told were grounds for firing, if they broke. She didn't care if the casinos had all done their fair share of something shady. She didn't want to carry on that legacy.

Eventually, the tour would end in one place she had definitely never been: House's old office. Honestly, less impressive than she expected, and yet at the same time, something impressive. Nice and straight forward. made her think that this place definitely needed some personality. Maybe a few plants, for a start? Not all that important yet, but something to think about.

Uuuh, maybe one of those clacking ball things she had seen some times before? They always looked so official, and kinda mesmerizing.

"That was a good tour, Ace. Thank you for the rundown of things, areas, and your coworkers. It's good to have you with us.

I do have a couple of questions actually. First off, as a experienced worker, you probably know what kind of staff we are going to need, right? Could you perhaps help make a list of those positions, and then perhaps make suggestions on some you think that are already staffed, that might be better if they had more responsibility? If you don't know, that's okay. Just trying to get some degree of sense of what's still needed, before we could think about reopening.

ALso... Please don't take this the wrong way, but I heard the casinos tended to have some back rooms with some... Less than stellar stuff both stored, and going on. Do you know about that? Or is there perhaps someone else who does? In case there's still something there, I'd very much like to get rid of it before too long. I know a casino can't exactly be a completely moral affair, but I'd like to at least try to have a clean house, to some extend."

Illiad Easle · October 11, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

The young ponies had all turned their attention to Null and Void by the time that Void thanked Arcade. Arcade nodded, "It was the least I could do for her after she saved our lives. I'm equally in your debt for the care you gave my family."

After a bit Teal asked, "So... is Arcade going to stay here with us now?"

He looked unsure, looking over at Null, "I don't know, have arrangements been made for me somewhere?"

(Changelings)

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Could you perhaps help make a list of those positions, and then perhaps make suggestions on some you think that are already staffed, that might be better if they had more responsibility?

Ace nodded, "I can get right on that for you ma'am, I can have that here on your desk tomorrow."

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

I heard the casinos tended to have some back rooms with some... Less than stellar stuff both stored, and going on. Do you know about that?

He looked a bit unsure, "Well, I can say we don't do anything here that would fit that description, not the sort that the Tartarus, Æther, or the Stacked Deck would. House wanted this place to be a more... family establishment. We do have some holding pens for any unruly patrons until they sober up or the Grey could collect them. But that's all I know about anything like that. I mean, if you wanted to add things like that I know of a few rooms that could be repurposed."

Blitz Boom · October 12, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The young ponies had all turned their attention to Null and Void by the time that Void thanked Arcade. Arcade nodded, "It was the least I could do for her after she saved our lives. I'm equally in your debt for the care you gave my family."

"It's been my pleasure. They're all such good ponies, that just needs some stability and love."

She hadn't really had issues with them. Just some fun, and some sad things that had come up at times, but none of them were problem foals. From Piecey to Ardee, they were all rather well behaved. In the case of Piecey and Peal, somewhat relatively so, but they were small foals. They acted pretty normal with that in mind.

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

After a bit Teal asked, "So... is Arcade going to stay here with us now?"

He looked unsure, looking over at Null, "I don't know, have arrangements been made for me somewhere?"

"There... Haven't been arranged anything right now. I think."

Null felt a little bit of worry over hearing this. If he were to stay here, how long was it gonna be? A week? Ten years? If she had to go and dole out Vengeance, she couldn't stay here forever. But how long could she? And... What if she left, and he then weren't with someone else? Like Ardee here? They seemed to be close. What if she-

"I'll work on getting some space for you, and clear everything. In the meantime, you can share the room Null and I had in the workshop. No worries, the beds can easily be pushed apart. We'll all sit and have a nice chat about space and such later, when we got you cleared, okay? Also, you're both needing a health exam before you're getting to be here too much. The others had one, but you haven't. You'll be going to a proper doctor and have it done. I'd suggest mom, but I don't want to stress her more with these sorts of things, when the foal's that close to being born.

When you've been checked, we'll go see mom and dad too. They've been worried about you, you know. This whole thing scares them. It scares me too, big sis. There's a lot of things that could've gone wrong. So would you please just lay down your guard, and make sure you're okay? At least for a few days?"

"...Fine. I guess it can't hurt to have a check or something. And I'd like to hear what's been going on while I were away."

"Few things, but uhm... We'll talk about that later."

She'd have to dwell Null about Molotov sooner or later, and judging by her memory of the two, she wouldn't be pleased. She distinctively recalled her big sister at one point, taking the unicorn, and hammer him into a wall in fact, for hitting on her. And that was just one of several ways she had shown her displeasure about his presence before.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-11 at 6:15 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked a bit unsure, "Well, I can say we don't do anything here that would fit that description, not the sort that the Tartarus, Æther, or the Stacked Deck would. House wanted this place to be a more... family establishment. We do have some holding pens for any unruly patrons until they sober up or the Grey could collect them. But that's all I know about anything like that. I mean, if you wanted to add things like that I know of a few rooms that could be repurposed."

"Nononono, nooo thank you. I'm on House's side on this. I don't want any of that sort here. Let's just keep things as they are.

*clears throat* Anyway, thank you for the help so far Ace, and I will be looking forward to the list. Take care."

Bling would give the pony a smile as he'd leave the room. Which would probably be right after this, which would then leave this room a changeling only office. Such a strange concept, yes? Yet here they were.

"He seems like a nice pony to have a around. Knows his way around what machines does things the best, and seems very focused and efficient. We'll see. Maybe he'll end up applying for the manager position? Then again, could be he's more interested in the ground floor things. Hehe, guess we'll see.

That being said... I'm sure House told them a lot of things, but I think it'd be good if we had our own look around. It seems like I have a lot of papers to look through though, so... Rasputin? Do you mind taking the charge, and run the group on a search?"

"You shouldn't stay here alone."

"It'll be fine, Bruce. Worse case, I know my way around some illusions and trickery. I'll be okay. And in caser there are some shady ones around, I'm sure you're in more danger from them out there, than I am in here. They'll need you."

Bruce weren't happy about this, but he would follow orders, and fall in line to join Rasputin, if he agreed to run through this place. As would the others.

Illiad Easle · October 13, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

Arcade nodded at the suggested arrangement, though the others looked disappointed that he wouldn't be staying with them for the time being.

Ardee seemed the least pleased of them all, to which Arcade sighed, "Is it alright if I talk with Ardee, privately?"

Assuming no one objected Arcade would lead Ardee out of the room to talk in the hallway.

While the two of them were outside the other young ponies turned their attention to the sisters, "So, will you both be caring for us now?"

"Also, can we get back to lunch?"

It would be about half an hour before Arcade and Ardee came back in to join the others, neither looked completely satisfied with their discussion, but Ardee seemed at least in somewhat better spirits than she had been.

(Changelings)

Ace nodded, "Sounds good, I'll go around and see who's still willing to work with the new management, and whose positions we'll need to fill." With that he'd let himself out of the office.

In the office:

Among the papers on the desk appeared to be a letter from R. House to Bling personally. It would seem like Bling receiving the casino was less a gift from the Grey, and more a gift delivered by the Grey. It also included some rather detailed instructions on how to ensure a peaceful transition of management, as well as a list of creatures who had previously been banned 'until I drop dead' who she might want to consider banning again.

Included in the letter was two keys, one tagged 'The Vault' and another tagged 'THE Vault' The letter elaborated that the first key opened the casino safe where any valuables were to be stored in excess of what was needed to operate the casino, and the second one was to hold the gift he had received from Grey Mane in agreeing to become the casino manager when the town was first liberated, describing the item as a pair of glasses that allowed the wearer to see through any disguise, not only physical or magical disguises, but also mental ones like lies, bluffs, and self-delusions. It warned against looking in a mirror while wearing them.

Rasputin's tour around the casino didn't reveal anything that the first tour had not, serving only to conclude that there was nothing dangerous hidden in the casino for them.

Blitz Boom · October 14, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

There'd be no objection from either of the sisters, over Arcade going to speak in private with Ardee, though Null had to try and fight a bit of a jealous thought, that started to dance around her head. She wasn't gonna act on it, but she had to fight it from trying to rise up, and become more than a small sting, in the back of her mind. Having a coltfriend were working poorly with her level of distrust towards others that wanted to get close to her, in this situation. Maybe if she just talked to him later, about how things were between him and Ardee, she's get some more calm... Yeah, maybe...

Thankfully she'd get a chance to be distracted soon, as the younglings began to direct some questions around. One of them hanging towards herself.

On 2021-10-13 at 3:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

While the two of them were outside the other young ponies turned their attention to the sisters, "So, will you both be caring for us now?"

"Also, can we get back to lunch?"

"Look, you're nice and all, but I don't really care for others. That's more Void's thing. I protect."

"That's still caring for others. And we'll see what happens. There's a lot to talk about there, but for now, we should focus on getting the food right. And uhm..."

"Yeah yeah, I'll get out of the kitchen."

Null would roll her eyes, and go over to the door. She'd take the saddlebags Void had with her, as they were mostly emptied anyway. Just seemed to be some paper in there in fact. Maybe some sorta note from someone? A letter... Love letter? Maybe she should- No, no. She'd talk to Void about it later. See what she said it were first. She'd tell her. Not like she'd try and hide a stallion from her... Right?

"Sorry, but I'd like for dinner to be edible. You're good at many things, big sis, but your cooking is like dad's. It's best if you just leave it to us."

With Null staying out of this, they'd end up with some nice food, about the time that Ardee and Arcade came back. All being served on small serving plates, showing off quite an array of things, from the black root dish, to sugared desert berries, and currently in the oven, a nice, fairly normal looking 2 layer cake. She didn't want to go too many layers, since she didn't think it was good with all the other things they'd have, that the cake pieces was too big, so Void had figured a simple 2 layer with berries would do well. It'd give them a chance to taste it, without going overboard.

(Think of something that looks local if you need details. Can't think of anything right now, beyond what I described earlier)

On 2021-10-13 at 3:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

It would be about half an hour before Arcade and Ardee came back in to join the others, neither looked completely satisfied with their discussion, but Ardee seemed at least in somewhat better spirits than she had been.

"Hey, good timing. We were just about to eat. Did you have a good talk? Also, everyone go and wash your hooves before dinner. That goes for you two as well."

She'd point towards Null and Arcade, with a little smirk going over her smile.

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-13 at 3:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Among the papers on the desk appeared to be a letter from R. House to Bling personally. It would seem like Bling receiving the casino was less a gift from the Grey, and more a gift delivered by the Grey. It also included some rather detailed instructions on how to ensure a peaceful transition of management, as well as a list of creatures who had previously been banned 'until I drop dead' who she might want to consider banning again.

House himself had wanted her to get this place, and not Epsilon? That honestly surprised Bling, and made her raise an eyebrow real high.

She didn't really have anything against House. Among the casino owners, he had always seemed like the more reasonable sort, and she had openly thanked him - either personally, or through some sort of correspondence - for letting any changeling that might've been employed here, even temporarily as cleaning staff or the like, get a chance. Not every place were willing to do that, and she had always thought that when someone did, it were just right for her to show gratitude. They relied on her to help them get back on their hooves, and out into life sometimes, and with jobs not always easy to come by, she were thankful for every last one she could find for them. Rarely it were something high end, but that didn't matter either. Cleaning, doing dishes, garbage collection, waitering, etc. wasn't glamorous, but it were important parts of a functional society, and she did her best to make sure that the changelings that she helped with that, understood that it wasn't demeaning work, they were above. It were work, and just as important as any other.

She said the same to the non-changelings that had rarely come by to ask for help. Generally speaking, they helped changelings, but there were occasions when they could lend a hoof to someone who wasn't, and help them in a rough time. Not with resources all that much sadly, as they didn't have a lot to work with historically, but they had enough around to where them vouching for someone, could at least get them the chance of an interview, and they could offer a place to shave, and take a bath, to be more presentable. Again though, it were rare, as others were around that could help them, and then the changelings took care of their own.

As for the list... She'd have to review it, a bit by bit, but she saw at least two names she already agreed with House on. Well known troublemakers, of the sort she wouldn't want to go in and vandalise things.

On 2021-10-13 at 3:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Included in the letter was two keys, one tagged 'The Vault' and another tagged 'THE Vault' The letter elaborated that the first key opened the casino safe where any valuables were to be stored in excess of what was needed to operate the casino, and the second one was to hold the gift he had received from Grey Mane in agreeing to become the casino manager when the town was first liberated, describing the item as a pair of glasses that allowed the wearer to see through any disguise, not only physical or magical disguises, but also mental ones like lies, bluffs, and self-delusions. It warned against looking in a mirror while wearing them.

She'd hold up the two keys as she found them. Eyeing the first, she'd think they should go and check there for sure, t see what they may have to work with. Might be empty coffers, or could be they were ready for a rainy day. Could be anywhere in between too, so it were important for them to check it.

The other key though, she'd eye with a grimace. She didn't want to throw that out, or give it to someone, as an item like that would be extremely bad for changeling kind as a whole, if they somehow got mass produced, or in the hooves of someone who really hated their kind. Yet on the other hoof, she really didn't want to touch it either, as she knew from experience, that sometimes, the truth were a very ugly thing, that you didn't want to be exposed to in its entirety. She'd have to think long and hard about this one, but at least it wasn't so bad if she kept it. Wasn't like a doomsday weapon or anything.

On 2021-10-13 at 3:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin's tour around the casino didn't reveal anything that the first tour had not, serving only to conclude that there was nothing dangerous hidden in the casino for them.

While she sat and dealt with paperwork, and thoughts of the thing she now possessed, the rest had a seemingly calm tour through the casino. Though that didn't mean they weren't thorough.

Bruce spent the majority of the time looking over the beings there, with a narrowed glance, trying to assert if any of them were an obvious threat to the hive.

As silent as Bruce were, so too were Nitpicker, though he looked around at everything that he could glance, and wrote on, and on, and on in his notebook. Filling pages with notes about the inventory, the beings, his own observations, what Ace had said before, and so on. He might not be able to utter a word, but he were a thorough observer, and though initially depressed at his cut out tongue, and feeling worthless about himself, he had found that long as he had his pen and paper, he were still a good observer, and a valued member of any hive. Upbeat had helped him a lot to get to this point, so he hadn't any problem helping out the hive.

Twitchy Pete were mostly there because he were neurotic, and thought that if he said no to anything Bling asked of him, she would kick him out of the old theater, and he'd be forced to fight rats over scraps. She'd never do that, and she kept telling him that, but he had a condition that made it hard for him to just believe that. Frankly what got him banished from his actual hive, as he were seen as simply not worth the effort, considering his flaws. They had found his potential though, as his paranoia meant that he were good at checking for traps, or sort of flaws in varied security systems. He needed to be around Aroma though. She knew the right amount of calm and intimidating needed, to make him function as well as currently possible. Though who knew? Now they could have some finances again, maybe they could try and find some sort of medication that could help him. Frankly it'd help if they had access to a zebra, but that wasn't as easy as one might hope.

As for Aroma... She didn't look like she were doing a lot, but all the while she wandered around, those with quick eyes might get her gazing *accidentally* towards various things, and *by pure chance* lose her hoofing briefly and hit something with her shoulder, as well as other subtle things. She looked as if she were just wandering around, aloof and without worry, yet she were testing the surroundings, and the reactions of the varied workers to her acts. Including getting close to a few machines, and have Nightingale - still looking like a cat - reach out to touch them. She liked to test boundaries of beings and objects, and it sometimes gave her some good angles to see things. Including when it seemed the actually fell on her stomach. At which point, she'd mentally remark on how surprisingly clean things actually were in here. Some efficient cleaners that worked in this casino.

Illiad Easle · October 17, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

The remaining ponies in her care did what they could to help Void as she cooked, the foals dividing their attention between Null and Void, seemingly in awe that two ponies that looked similar could be in the same room.

On 2021-10-14 at 2:55 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Did you have a good talk? Also, everyone go and wash your hooves before dinner. That goes for you two as well.

Ardee and Arcade shared a look before nodding, "Yeah, I think it was productive." They joined the others in washing their hooves before returning to the table to eat with the others. While the others ate Ardee and Arcade would come over to where Void and Vale were and ask, softly such that the others would not overhear, "So, what exactly is the plan? Is there a timeline for how long they'll all be staying here? Is it until they can be reintroduced? until they get their marks? Until they get adopted?"

If Void didn't have an answer, Vale would respond, "I believe the government is looking into finding suitable arrangements, families that could adopt them so they can have some more stability in their lives. They want to be absolutely certain of a good fit of course, so there's no exact timeline on that yet."

(Changelings)

Eventually Rasputin would bring the assembled changelings back to Bling's new office, "The place looks clean, both literally and figuratively, surprising given that it is a casino, I wonder how long it'll stay that way once we reopen."

He motioned for the others to come forward, "I saw you all making your own observations, anything you think your queen should know?"

(I'm thinking a time skip soon since I don't really have any day to day interactions planned here, unless you have some ideas?)

Blitz Boom · October 18, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2021-10-17 at 8:25 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"So, what exactly is the plan? Is there a timeline for how long they'll all be staying here? Is it until they can be reintroduced? until they get their marks? Until they get adopted?"

If Void didn't have an answer, Vale would respond, "I believe the government is looking into finding suitable arrangements, families that could adopt them so they can have some more stability in their lives. They want to be absolutely certain of a good fit of course, so there's no exact timeline on that yet."

"I'm kinda worried about that. They're all so close. Being adopted would probably mean they were split up, into several families. Piecey and Peal might get adopted together, but the others... It's not easy. Sometimes, I've kinda thought that..."

Void bit her lip, and looked away briefly. She had her thoughts on things, but giving false hope... She couldn't do that to them. She needed to think more, and see if it were just a pipe dream, or stray thought, before she said anything out loud.

"N-Nevermind, What I meant were that I hope there's some way we can keep them together. They've been together for so long, it's... W-Well, I know what it's like, and I don't want to wish that upon anyone.

*sigh* And I don't know how the plans are looking. Right now, we're just doing out best to keep everyone happy, and teach them things. And uhm... Something else too, actually. I think you can perhaps answer that, Arcade? How do you think Toupé would feel if she were offered some artificial wings? A pair that works. I don't know how she'd feel, since it sounds like she never remember, but... You know her well, right? I don't want to make her feel unhappy. I just want to try and help her."

She kept the tone low, as Vale and Arcade did, to make sure none of the others listened in to the chat they had right now. Best to keep that between the grownups for now.

Meanwhile, Lacuna eyed his chance to run from Void, and over on Arcade. There, he'd climb up, and aim to end up standing on his head, and look at the odd horn of the stallion., He had never seen a horn look like this, so he were curious about it.

As for Null, she simply stood over to the side, and observed things for now. Unless she were approached, she'd just do this, and think some more over things, whilst looking at Void's new family. Might be she were officially just a caretaker, but she knew her sister. SHe'd care more for them than just that.

(Changeling)

"The workers didn't seem like obvious threats, but I need more time to tell. I'd strongly urge you to not go, or stay, anywhere alone for now."

Whereas Bruce just went ahead and said this, Nitpicker would instead open his journal, and pull out twenty-three pages, then put them down on the table.

"Thank you both. Pete? Have you seen something?"

"S-S-Seen? No. No t-t-traps. No poison. No h-hidden enemies. Y-Yet. H-Have to be s-s-somewhere..."

Pete started to look around himself, uncertain if perhaps there were someone in here with them. His voice fit the general looks of him, being neurotic and afraid that there were something, or someone, just within reach, ready to do unspeakable things to him. Or the others, but mainly him. He really just wanted to go back into a nice, dark and empty, featureless room again, where he could feel a tiny bit safer.

"Nightingale? Aroma? Anything of note?"

"This place is surprisingly clean. Even under the machines. I'd keep the staff if I were you."

"I've been around before. Everything looks like normal, except the lack of gambling happening. Cabinet Mare is also gone, with all signage too. Seems like the cursed game have taken it's last players in this casino."

"Well, probably for the best. Odd old machine that one, with a bit of a bad reputation. Let's hope whatever happened, it's not causing more issues elsewhere.

Anyway, been going through some paperwork, and among it, it seems like House actually is the one who signed this over to us. I'm pretty amazed by that, since I didn't think he regarded us that highly, but it's an incredible gift. Once we have everything running, we should remember to keep his picture up. His memory should be honored, for this generous opportunity.

Anyway, I figure we have a look at the vault, then get home, and try and get everyone back to their regular lives, a little by little. Once we have an inventory of the vault, and a list of what employees we still need, we can start putting some adds out."

(a time skip can happen here. For fun, it can start up, around the time the performers I NPC'd into things earlier, that would come from Troy, would arrive to audition for a chance to be hired for performances. Might be fun. The length of time isn't important for that.)

Illiad Easle · October 19, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

(I went back and checked, but so far as I'm aware no one has told Toupé that she is a pegasus. So we'll say that she still doesn't know.)

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Piecey and Peal might get adopted together,

Ardee shook her head, "They go together, period. They've hardly ever been separated since they were 'born', and I'll fight anyone who would try to separate them."

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

but the others... It's not easy. Sometimes, I've kinda thought that...

The two of them looked over at them, "They'd... they'd probably be okay, Elef especially, so long as they could still see each other often, that would be fine."

Vale nodded, "I'll make sure those stipulations are included, I don't think that'll be an issue either, given how long you all have been together, it's only natural to keep you all in contact."

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

How do you think Toupé would feel if she were offered some artificial wings? A pair that works.

Both Ardee and Arcade fixed Void with a concerned yet shocked expression, Arcade speaking lower, "Does she know?"

Ardee shook her head, "I haven't told her, she hasn't asked, I wouldn't break my promise like that."

Arcade looked at Void and Vale, "Mistress decided that it would be better if she didn't know. Can't miss what you never knew you lost after all?"

Ardee sighed, "She probably wouldn't even believe you if you told her. We all know that they destroyed all mistakes, and, well, She wasn't a pegasus."

Arcade looked deeply concerned, "To tell her that she isn't an earth pony, would be like saying she was a mistake. That Mistress lied to her."

"Even if you could give her wings... it might not be enough."

"Who else knows?"

(Changelings)

Over the next several days the casino and the old theater were full of activity, the existing staff members interviewed, evaluated, and the vast majority of them kept on. The rest of the positions filled with able bodied and qualified changelings who needed work. Rasputin training them along with the existing staff in the fine art of encouraging creatures to gamble, how to inspire confidence, and minimize depression after a loss, as well as how to carry themselves to look official without coming off as haughty, refined, yet not snooty.

They had found a decent amount of money present in the vault, which made opening the casino a less immediate concern, but it would still need to open soon. Notices were posted about town, advertising the available position of Casino Manager, and listing the several qualifications one needed to have in order to be considered. Of all those who applied, the interviews narrowed it down to two, Ace, and Penny.

Rasputin sat with Bling in her office, "So, it comes down to the two of them. Do you want to make a decision outright? Or do you have an idea as to how we might choose between them? Ace has graciously agreed to remain the Floor Manager if we choose not to promote him, and should we promote him we'd then need to fill the Floor Manager position."

Blitz Boom · October 20, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2021-10-19 at 5:58 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"They go together, period. They've hardly ever been separated since they were 'born', and I'll fight anyone who would try to separate them."

"I'd fight with you for that, Ardee. The little ones should always be together."

Perhaps she were somewhat biased, since Null and her were close sisters too, but she didn't care. Peal and Piecey went together, if anywhere, and that was final.

On 2021-10-19 at 5:58 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The two of them looked over at them, "They'd... they'd probably be okay, Elef especially, so long as they could still see each other often, that would be fine."

Vale nodded, "I'll make sure those stipulations are included, I don't think that'll be an issue either, given how long you all have been together, it's only natural to keep you all in contact."

Void wouldn't say anything to this, but simply nod. She had her own thoughts, but as thought earlier, there were a lot to think through regarding this, and there were a lot of other things to consider as well currently too, Like how to stop Vale from strangling Molotov later.

On 2021-10-19 at 5:58 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Both Ardee and Arcade fixed Void with a concerned yet shocked expression, Arcade speaking lower, "Does she know?"

Ardee shook her head, "I haven't told her, she hasn't asked, I wouldn't break my promise like that."

Arcade looked at Void and Vale, "Mistress decided that it would be better if she didn't know. Can't miss what you never knew you lost after all?"

Ardee sighed, "She probably wouldn't even believe you if you told her. We all know that they destroyed all mistakes, and, well, She wasn't a pegasus."

Arcade looked deeply concerned, "To tell her that she isn't an earth pony, would be like saying she was a mistake. That Mistress lied to her."

"Even if you could give her wings... it might not be enough."

"Who else knows?"

"M-My mother were the one who examined her. I don't think she told Toupé. The consul also knows, but that's all I can think of.

I don't think it's that simple though, Arcade. Your mistress told you something, but I've lived with a pegasus that couldn't fly, for most of her life, and who only had a single, short flight made, before she lost her wing. There's something in pegasi that calls to the skies. A kind of instinct. I don't know, maybe she haven't felt it, due to the uhm... Circumstances, but have you ever noticed her liking to go to high spaces? Perhaps looked up, without really being able to tell why? That sort of thing? Null kept saying there was a lot of that, and it festered.

You know her better of course, but she seemed very enthusiastic when we were up on the wall, yesterday. And she were the first to look up further, towards the stars. I know it wouldn't be easy to convince her of this, if she were told, and she'd need support to face everything, but I just... *sigh* I just want to help her. Null and I know what it's like to be amputees, and it's a struggle. If there's ways to alleviate that, I'm drawn to try and help.

But you're closest to her. If you don't think she should know, I won't tell, and I'll let mom and the consul know too."

Hopefully she could at least help Ardee though, if not Toupé, though it'd require her trying to find an excuse for the tomboy pegasus, and her sister, to get a little bit of privacy to speak in. Null would probably end up being very direct, and say something that might have a bit of a harsh tone to it, that she herself wouldn't, but sometimes, being blunt was the best way forward, even if it was a bitter pill to swallow.

(Changeling)

It had been some hectic days in the casino, getting everything ready for the inevitable, grand reopening. There had thankfully been something in the coffers, so they could work on preparing, and still pay the staff, while they sent out flyers with openings they needed filled. A fair deal of applicants had come forth, including a lot of changelings, and it had been a little hectic trying to sort it all, but she felt fairly certain right now, that they had everything ready.

All but the most important position that were, who had two strong contenders for the part.

Penny had applied, as expected, and come forth with quite a resume, and recommendations from the various places she had worked for. She were most certainly qualified, if a little too confident that she were more or less supposed to be given the position on the spot. Not as badly as expected though. That she needed to apply for the job seemed to irk her, over just being offered it by the sheer fact that she were a changeling, but she were professional about it, and simply laid out the facts, as well as parts of a plan that would work well for the casino. Just a taste, but it were interesting, and she certainly seemed to have good ideas.

However, there were a strong contender in Ace. He came highly recommended by most she had asked, and he were definitely better at dealing with beings creatures than Penny were. It were what made him a good floor manager in the first place likely, and he'd probably end up being a great manager. He knew the place, seemingly had respect of those working here, and knew enough of how to manage things - as evident from the help he'd provided, when it came to things like a list of employees, positions to fill, etc. - to likely do things well. The casino had run well before, and she felt certain he could keep it that way.

On 2021-10-19 at 5:58 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin sat with Bling in her office, "So, it comes down to the two of them. Do you want to make a decision outright? Or do you have an idea as to how we might choose between them? Ace has graciously agreed to remain the Floor Manager if we choose not to promote him, and should we promote him we'd then need to fill the Floor Manager position."

"I don't know. I've been thinking about this over and over again, and there's props to both of them.

Penny is ambitious, and have a plan set out already, for how things would work. She's swallowed her pride enough to acknowledge my superiority, and applied like any regular worker would, so she have passed a great hurdle. But she's highly professional, and I'd fear that her plans would include rearranging staff, or terminating certain positions, even if I'd constantly tell her no.

Ace is one I don't really know, but he's proven to be highly resourceful, and knows how things should work. I don't think he'd make a big leap ahead, but he could certainly keep things running well as it were before, and he's worked hard to prove he has the skill for this. Yet I don't know him all that well, and can't say if most of it is a facade, and he'll crack under the pressure from having to direct, rather than being directed.

I know he's offered to stay as the floor manager, but he does things good enough to make me feel mostly sure that the casino would be in good hooves, if he were to go to the top, instead. And he's working hard. It's not like he haven't earned his chance.

Then there's the whole thing with making it seem like there's a bias, since Penny is a changeling, and... *sigh* It's just a mess."

While she sat there at the desk, hooves going over her head, as the thoughts went through, the door would be knocked, and Bruce would open it. While the others did various things, where some of that were in the casino, Bruce had insisted that she needed a guard, now more than ever, and refused to leave her presence. He did make a fair argument for it, so she had agreed to have him as her guard. He did well, and honestly, she knew that he intimidated others, so he were likely as perfect for this as anything. Big, scarred, and imposing as he stood there, his large axe at the ready, and either following her around, or as now, guarding the door. It left an impression, though she were still amazed he could stand guard so much, and not get bored. Guard drones were an odd bunch, but she appreciated his efforts.

"My queen, the performers from Troy are arriving. A suspicious looking zebra, and a griffon. The earth ponies you were told about, arrives with the next caravan."

"Oooh, there's a welcome distraction. Thank you, Bruce. I'll be out in a minute."

THe changeling would nod at her, than at Rasputin, as a sign of respect, and be on his way. He had no quarrel with Rasputin. He had shown himself to be helpful to his queen, and that were all he needed to know. History and prejudice was for others to deal with.

"Been waiting for these four. A shame the last pair can't come yet, but it won't be too long of a wait.

Still don't know how to pick between Ace and Penny though. Like I said, both are qualified, and it'd be rude to not even think of Ace, regardless of whatever or not he'd go to the ground floor and stay there, if need be.

You have any ideas, Rasputin? Can I like... I dunno, pitch them against each other in a test somehow?"

Illiad Easle · October 21, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

But you're closest to her. If you don't think she should know, I won't tell, and I'll let mom and the consul know too.

Arcade and Ardee looked deeply unsure, "I mean... we've spent just about our entire lives underground. Elef and I didn't really have desires like you mentioned, but everyone's different."

Arcade spared a quick glance over at Toupé before looking back at his portion of the food, "She... out of all of us she was the closest to Mistress. It would break her heart to find out she was lied to. That the reason she was created was unattainable from the beginning, that she would have been considered a mistake."

"Her whole life she's never thought of herself as anything other than an earth pony. But you might be right, maybe she should know the truth."

Arcade sighed, then looked at Void, "If you can give her wings again, and I mean you can guarantee them, then we'll help you break the news to her."

Ardee spared a glance at her flank, still blank, "We'll have to tell her the full truth. About our origins, for it to make sense."

(Changelings)

Rasputin listened as Bling laid out her concerns, "What if we did this: We know that Ace has plenty of experience here in the casino that will translate well into being the manager, but not experience in such a position. Penny has experience in such a position, but not so much specifically here in the casino. Lets make Ace the Casino Manager for a trial period , see how well he adapts to the position. In the mean time we give Penny the position of Floor Manager. For the duration of the trial period she'll gain the specific knowledge of how the casino works, or flush herself out, and Ace will either adapt or request to be moved back. We will of course not tell either of them this arrangement, lest they make it into a competition between the two of them to see who holds out longer."

He nodded to himself, "We tell Ace that we'd like to see how well he can manage the casino over a trial period, and if he does well the position is his, but he is free to return to his old position if he finds the added responsibility too much. We tell Penny that we'd like to see how well she works in the casino environment by making her the floor manager for a trial period, with the possibility of a promotion if her work is sufficiently satisfactory at the end. How does that sound?"

Blitz Boom · October 22, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

"I don't know much about your mistress, but my adoptive parents, worked in a facility too. They didn't tell us some things, because they thought the truth would hurt more than a lie. I think it was the same with your mistress, and if we take our time, I'm sure Toupé will eventually understand that she were only trying to protect her from a truth, that would do nothing but hurt her.

But if we tell her, there have to be a lot of timing involved, and we need to think of the impact on the others too. If she's told of her past, then the rest will know too, and we have to make sure they understand that neither they, nor you, are just copies. You're ponies, just as much as big sis or I am. That you came from them, doesn't change that. I've met most of them, and you're all different from those I saw.

*sigh* I have the measures in moms reports. I can scribble them down, and then look more into this. I won't bring up a thing until I can be absolutely certain, that if we brought this up to her, there'd be a guarantee it would work. Safely, of course. I'm not letting anyone hurt any of you."

Void noted how Ardee's eyes went to her own flank, before the young mare said the last bit to the group too. She didn't have to guess what went through her head as she did this, as there could really only be one thing.

"You'll get your mark someday, Ardee. All of you will. And it won't be a copy. It will be your own, special mark, that shows who You are. Not her."

She'd give a warm, tender smile to Ardee as she softly said this, to still keep the others from listening in. Such a burden it must be, to think of something like that as much as she did. Hopefully, she could somehow get Ardee's thoughts away from that someday, and prove to her, that she were her own, special pony. A real one at that, and not some sorta speck of the original, grown to full.

(Changelings)

Oh Rasputin. Always knew just what to say to get a smile on Bling's face. In this situation, make her visibly light up, as he presented a perfectly solid plan for how to do this, and test the boundaries of the potential hires.

"That'd be perfect! It'd also give Penny a chance to prove that she can deal with creatures up close, and not through memos and assistants. You're a lifesaver sometimes, Rasputin. Literally in some cases."

Bling would giggle slightly, before setting the papers aside, and stretching her legs.

"We'll tell them then, and set up everything to open up as soon as they're settled in. First however, I want to meet the new performers. The letter from Null said the griffon were a great singer, and the zebra had some kind of specialty act. Don't know why she wrote she had agreed to not spoil it, but I'm guessing he just wants to surprise us."

Having almost everything ready, one thing were still to be done, beyond placing Penny and Ace at their respective stations, and that were preparing the theater. She had lined up a performance by Upbeat, herself, and a few of the more talented, enthusiastic changelings in town, so they had that. But some variety would be good too, and this would present a wonderful chance for that. On a great stage even. This was so exciting!

Wandering out, Bruce would silently follow her along. You couldn't see it on his face, but he hadn't been as happy as he had been these last few days, in years. He had been raised to guard his queen, and when his hive fell, he had nothing left to fight for. He fought to try and avenge it, and almost died from it. Now, he yet again served a queen, even if she wasn't one fully. Not yet. But her time would come, and before, during, and after it, he would stand near her, and ensure she would be safe. He had his chance to do what he had always been meant to do, and thinking of it, almost made him want to smile.

Just not around others. There were some way to go, before he'd consider that, but those who knew him could certainly feel his improved mood. While others looked at him, and got concerned he'd fillet them. Just as it should be.

Moving through the casino, and the various things standing shiny clean, ad ready to get to work once more, they'd eventually reach the theater, and be faced with the first of the two, prospecting performers. One that made Bruce narrow his eyes a little, and tense up some, as he did not like the look of this zebra.

Hizu were a zebra alright. Stripes, black and white, and with rings around his legs and neck. But he didn't come off as one like say, Zecora. He wore tattered robes, covering most of his body. His mane hung down, partially covering his face, and poking out down the side of his head, to about a hoof's width under the hood of his robes. A hood that too had some holes, and when his head hung low - as it did when they entered the theater - he'd be able to look up, and through his mane, and the holes in the hood, look at the two of them. His brown eyes looked bemused, and followed well the small, creepy smile on his face, as he stood in front of a battered up, iron cauldron.

As he rose a hoof to greet them, you'd be better able to see that his rings, had some carving on them. Old Zebrican sigils, and carvings of animals, like serpents, spiders, and dogs. Bling had no idea what it meant, but for those in the know about old, old, Old Zebrican culture, these were traditional markings of his craft. Historically called - in the common tongue - a Beast Warder. That were what this craft of fear originally were for. To terrify monsters and beasts alike, to keep various villages safe from what might roam around.

It was a very uncommon craft these days though, bordering on nearly forgotten, as there were other methods to deal with what were left now, in all but the most dangerous of communities. And one of those, is where Hizu were taught his craft, and eventually, found some degree of joy in going into the world, and use it not on beasts only, but also regular, sentient beings, as he found they often were curious to see if he might terrify them.

The symbols of the various beasts and creatures on his rings, were in reference to what creatures he had dealt with. As were tradition when he'd eventually die, those rings should then be chained together, and serve as his memorial stone, at his birth place in Zebrica. Which were in his living will too. With only one exception: If he got a pupil, who had not graduated by the time of his passing. In that case, they were to be handed to that pupil, and serve as a measuring stick first. The pupil would have to complete at least a third of those tasks too, on their own rings, before then returning with these to Zebrica, to lay his spirit to rest. Whatever or not it were true the spirit actually watched over the pupil, until then, were up for debate, but the zebra believed in it. One more reason in fact, why not many wanted to take part of this craft. It were seen as a risk, to end up bound to this world, if no one ever took up their rings. And if they had no pupils, they may well be stuck there, until another one would find them, and brave the task, whilst signing themselves to the path themselves.

Though not popular however, the ones who did go through with it, were watched first with worry and skepticism, and then if they mastered their craft, some degree of reverence. Especially those who brought peace to their ancestors. It varied though, with others finding those who did this, to be crazy, or morbid freaks. And Hizu was not helping his case, when it came to being seen as the latter of those.

"Oh hello there. You're Hizu, right? You're preparing something?"

"To prove my conviction, I prepare for my audition."

"That's a good attitude. We're-"

"A guard I see, the queen to be, and the fallen now free. Some speak well, of he who broke his cell. Others scream and tear, as their anger flare."

His gaze would fixate mostly on Rasputin. Disguised or not, he knew. Like many other zebras would, though he didn't say the name aloud, regardless of the fact that it were only the four of them here. The last one were in the back rooms, trying to find a proper outfit.

Behind the zebra, would be some boxes, and a cloth covering some smaller ones too. He had some things brought along for the show, even if it did cost him. But his craft required certain things, and while weird, nothing there were technically illegal.

Illiad Easle · October 23, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

17 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

I'm not letting anyone hurt any of you.

Ardee sighed, then nodded, "You get everything gathered and sorted, and... I'll figure out how to break it to her, and find the right time."

She ruffled her feathers, seemingly annoyed, "Someone'll have to teach her, and I suppose it should be me, shouldn't it? To make up for hiding it from her."

Arcade rubbed her back and neck, "You don't have to if you don't want to. We've done plenty for them, keeping them safe this long, getting them all the way here where they can finally be safe, happy, it's all Mistress wanted for any of us. Just... don't push yourself too hard, alright?"

17 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"You'll get your mark someday, Ardee. All of you will. And it won't be a copy. It will be your own, special mark, that shows who You are. Not her."

She looked down, "I wish I could believe that. I really do. But even Arcade here doesn't have a mark, and he's been around longer even than I have."

He looked a bit embarrassed by that comment, but shook his head. "Mistress said that a mark comes from self-actualization, which requires that all your other needs are met. Until just recently we could barely manage food water and shelter, much less the tranquility needed for self reflection that most young ponies have had for years by this point. Now that we're all safe... maybe we'll have the time to reflect on what we like, what we enjoy, rather than simply struggling to survive."

He turned to Void, "Is there some sort of councilor or therapist for this sort of thing? We can't be the only young ponies who have been deeply traumatized in our developmental years."

(Changelings)

Rasputin nodded at Bling's decision, and elected to follow her to preview the performers who had been invited.

His expression stiffened a bit when he was verbally unmasked by the very perceptive zebra, "Careful, not everyone here will take so kindly to having their past aired for all to see."

The rings did not escape his notice however, "Such a storied history you bear, clearly you hail straight from Zebrica or the isles, no Equestrian zebrz nor a zebra of Archback could gather so much experience. Perhaps you met my granddaughter Mari? She was in Zebrica prior to the incident, just after the Summer War."

Blitz Boom · October 24, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2021-10-23 at 9:00 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee sighed, then nodded, "You get everything gathered and sorted, and... I'll figure out how to break it to her, and find the right time."

She ruffled her feathers, seemingly annoyed, "Someone'll have to teach her, and I suppose it should be me, shouldn't it? To make up for hiding it from her."

Arcade rubbed her back and neck, "You don't have to if you don't want to. We've done plenty for them, keeping them safe this long, getting them all the way here where they can finally be safe, happy, it's all Mistress wanted for any of us. Just... don't push yourself too hard, alright?"

"Try and get Null to help you. She had to go through learning how to fly, just weeks ago, when the consul and Selena managed to make her an artificial wing. She'll know the struggles, but it's probably best you two work together on it. When the time is right. She have experience, but they trust you, Ardee. I think it would work best if you two joined up on this.

But sone step at a time, okay? I still need to talk to the one I think can help her, for confirmation. Then get measurements and everything right, and have the wings made in the first place. She won't be told a thing, until we can be completely sure that everything is ready, and would work safely. After that, we'll find a way to let them know. You won't be standing alone with this responsibility. You already have enough weighing you down."

She were mostly speaking to Ardee, but she looked at Arcade too, making it clear that she didn't think he was without a lot of things on his shoulders too. As the other grown up of the group, he'd have to help take care of them too, as they ran from the facility. Surely he had things on him as well.

On 2021-10-23 at 9:00 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She looked down, "I wish I could believe that. I really do. But even Arcade here doesn't have a mark, and he's been around longer even than I have."

He looked a bit embarrassed by that comment, but shook his head. "Mistress said that a mark comes from self-actualization, which requires that all your other needs are met. Until just recently we could barely manage food water and shelter, much less the tranquility needed for self reflection that most young ponies have had for years by this point. Now that we're all safe... maybe we'll have the time to reflect on what we like, what we enjoy, rather than simply struggling to survive."

"I don't know the finer details, but the way I always learned it, is that foals get their marks, when they find what they're special at. The thing that exemplifies what they do best. And you haven't had a chance to do that, out there. First trapped, then having to run, and scamper for the bare necessities... There's barely a chance in that environment, to understand who you are, much less what your talent is.

And blank flanks aren't just something small foals normally are. I've met adults who hadn't gotten their cutie marks yet. One of them were in Equestria. In Ponyville, specifically. He had a family, were into his forties, and did well with the Night Guard. Like he said, he liked his life, and had understood that the mark, is just an indicator. It doesn't define who you are, or what you have to do, so it didn't matter if it came late in life.

But just wait and see, Ardee. Now you have a home, and security, you'll all get to blossom. I promise you that. And I intend to keep all the promises I make to you."

She had thus far, with the various things she'd said. Not always promptly, but things sometimes took time. The point being more that she wanted to make sure that Ardee were told this many times, so she were reminded that there were someone who did believe in her, and who'd be with her every step of the way. Even if she went elsewhere someday, Void would always be there to love and support her, and everyone else of this special flock, of wondrous younglings.

Sadly, she likely couldn't say the same thing about the guard she mentioned, nor his daughter. Not considering how Ponyville had been at the epicenter of everything. Some had made it to another world yes, but all of them? She feared the answer were no, but she'd prefer not to dwell on it. Nothing good cvame from that.

On 2021-10-23 at 9:00 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He turned to Void, "Is there some sort of councilor or therapist for this sort of thing? We can't be the only young ponies who have been deeply traumatized in our developmental years."

"I wish I could say there wasn't, but yes. The war have traumatized a lot of creatures. A fair few sadly ending up alone too, with their family either dead, or turned traitors. I know someone I can try and get cleared. It helped me to talk with her, after things settled down with me, and I know she have helped, and are still helping, a lot of others too. I'll make sure to look into it tomorrow, okay sweetie?"

(Changelings)

On 2021-10-23 at 9:00 AM, Illiad Easle said:

His expression stiffened a bit when he was verbally unmasked by the very perceptive zebra, "Careful, not everyone here will take so kindly to having their past aired for all to see."

"I promise your fears, is for no other ears. These two are aware, so a sliver of what I bear, I laid out for you to hear. Your name remains sealed away, as does the things I know. My word from today, until you are ready to show."

He had deliberately not given details about Rasputin, even though he knew who he were alright. Though these two knew him, they did not know the details he did, and frankly, it were none of their business. Nor was it for others, to overhear who Rasputin were. Hizu simply wanted to show that he were indeed perceptive, as many assumed the majority of zebras were. Not all of them were in all honesty, but no need to burst that bubble. Nor that of Rasputin's secret, which would remain with him. Until the day he were ready to step into the light of course. If he yet lived at that time.

"Well, you've certainly managed to catch attention, that's for sure, Hizu. Please remember to keep your word though. I'm sure your act will be good, but I can't have one staffed that goes around telling things like that."

He understood her concern, and nodded, as dragged forth a few more items to put into his pot. He likely used fire opals to make it warm, as there were no obvious sign of fire, though it could also be minor strength, fire-magic infused gems. Either way, it seemed to still be warming up, as the water wasn't even properly warm yet.

On 2021-10-23 at 9:00 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The rings did not escape his notice however, "Such a storied history you bear, clearly you hail straight from Zebrica or the isles, no Equestrian zebrz nor a zebra of Archback could gather so much experience. Perhaps you met my granddaughter Mari? She was in Zebrica prior to the incident, just after the Summer War."

"I know of Mari, yet I have little news to thee. As she would be unlikely to value my decision, and might mock my conviction, we would unlikely be friends. Though I know she have not met her ends. Like many others, of our sisters and brothers, she remains safe in our country. Only the foolish tried to flee, this relative safety.

I am one of few, whom the creatures didn't slew. In time I will return to them, but there is much to my burden. Many souls that rely, on me remaining to try."

He'd halt, and go over to a specific crate. He'd open it, to reveal a good amount of rings within, all with many, many symbols carved into them. Enough for at least six zebra's worth. And those six, had clearly been some whom had quite a history, judging by how filled their rings were.

"None took their weight, so they're stuck in their wait. Whom would wish for that kind of faith?"

"You mean like, their spirits are stuck? That's rough. But what does it have to do with your audition here? I'm a little confused, since it kinda sounds like you have a goal."

"I will tell you the history, after I perform for thee. You will understand after, you see what I master.

Have you more questions, or might need directions, as to where she might have her base, that you may see her face to face? Lest you would rather wait, til you have lessened your moral weight?"

The last were specifically for Rasputin. They were still only the four of them in the room, so there were nothing to worry about, with others listening in. Even then, no details too bad were there to be heard in the first place, and no one of the three here, besides Rasputin, would tell about what went on.

Illiad Easle · October 25, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

I think it would work best if you two joined up on this.

Ardee looked over at where Null was loitering, seemingly studying her before nodding, "That's... probably the better option."

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

I'll make sure to look into it tomorrow, okay sweetie?

She looked down for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. It would probably do us all some good to address the traumas we've been subjected to sooner rather than later."

(I'm curious to see who you have in mind for that position.)

They finished their conversation not a moment too soon as the other ponies had finished their food and were getting curious as to what was going on between Arcade, Ardee, and Void, as well as what would happen next now that the group was back together.

Arcade stood up and went over to Null, "We should probably let your parents know that you're back safe now, right?"

(Changelings)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Lest you would rather wait, til you have lessened your moral weight?

Rasputin shook his head, "When the time comes, I'm sure I'll have no trouble finding her. Please, lets see your audition."

Blitz Boom · October 25, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

13 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee looked over at where Null was loitering, seemingly studying her before nodding, "That's... probably the better option."

Null looked back, as she noticed she were being watched. She didn't know why though, but she'd ask about it later. Seemed like they had a chatter about something though. Likely something with the foals, considering they talked low enough to seemingly try not to be heard by them.

13 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade stood up and went over to Null, "We should probably let your parents know that you're back safe now, right?"

"Yeah, it sounds like there's some details that needs to be hammered out here first anyway, that's above my paygrade. I'll see you later sis."

"Of course. I get the feeling we're going to have a lot to talk about when that is."

They'd exchange a look, and a small nod, before Null would move towards the exit. They'd had plenty to talk about later, but for now, it were time to go and reassure her parents, that she wasn't dead. Only Grey Mane were.

The thought make her shiver a little, and look down on the hoof she had used to stab him with. It might look clean to others, but to her, she could still mentally see the blood running down it. The blood of kin... What an exemplary member of the family she turned out to be...

She'd wander out of there with a little more haste, and would make way towards her parents house. They were probably worried about her. And likely relieved that she did not literally come back with a head on a pike, as she had sworn.

Back with the others in the meantime, Void would let out a long sigh, whilst looking worried towards the door. Something where bothering Null. She could tell it, but right now, she couldn't go and try and get it out of her. There were others that needed her here.

"Well, this have been an eventful day already, haven't it? Is everyone done eating? If so, we could go and clean up, and then figure out what to do next. Does anyone have any suggestions?"

(Changelings)

"Twenty minutes it will be, and then you will see. My travel mate however, should be ready whenever."

Hizu would go back to preparing his brew for the evening, which currently included a bleached rodent skull, some oddly red colored straw, or grass, and a teaspoon of sand. The liquid inside growing suddenly rather bleached white, as the skull began to dissolve. It'd end up changing color, and give of odors a fair few times more before he were done, but for the time being, he'd simply stand at the side of the scene, and prepare in peace. After rolling his cauldron over. It wouldn't do with having to move it by lifting it all the time, so he had found a handy section of boards, with four wheels under, used to tr4ansport things in the theater, and taken it for his own usage. At least until he'd be able to get the section of the floor underneath, that could be lifted up, to make more of a grand entrance. All n due time however. First, he had to be hired on. It'd be fun to see if he could manage that.

Meanwhile, Bling would nod, and lead Rasputin towards the back room, that they may get the other performer out.

Wouldn't be a long trip to get to the room, and upon opening it, would be met with the sight of a female griffon. Impeccably clean, and freshly showered by the looks of things - Bling had offered the inevitable guests could make use of that before their auditions - as well as immaculately preened. Not a feather sat loose upon her snow-white coat, with the specked, light-grey feathers at the edge of her wings, and her tail. Her beak were polished, and you could almost see your reflection upon the yellow surface.

Her light-brown fur were brushed and free of even dust, and her talons were sharpened enough, that she might split a hair in two, were she to strike at it properly. Even the tuft of fur on her tail - which had a silver ring near the end - were clean as a whistle, and made her radiate even more. At least to Bling, whom gazed upon the griffon with big eyes. She hadn't thus far taken note of the two, and simply stood and looked in the mirror, with a coat rack to her right, shaking her head, and then when it inevitably loosened her longer head feathers, would pull them backwards to lay down in the way she considered proper, once again. She were not a fan of the forward kind of style.

"No no no no! This will not do. If the mistress of the casino saw me like this, it would be a catastrophe."

The female griffon wrinkled her beak, and went over to once more, look through the hangars. She needed something that would be awe-inspiring, and surely would make her a star on this stage, or she may never get the chance again. She tired of singing for scraps on the street, when she were meant for so much more. She belonged on a stage. This stage. And she were not going to accept it being any less than perfect, when she would get her esteemed visitor.

Her voice were not screechy as you may think of her kind at times, but clear and vibrant. Even now, it were impossible to not hear every word she said, as she frantically looked through the selection she were provided. Why oh why was the selection for non-equines so poor here?!

"I dunno. Personally, I think you look quite vibrant."

The griffon turned quickly towards them as she heard Bling's voice, thunder roaring in her eyes, talons on her right hand raised, and ready to strike down. A stance which lasted for just a second after she saw whom it were. She had gotten a description to work from, when she asked about the owner, so she were confident this were her. Especially due to the towering brute that had moved in front of her, and now looked down on her, like you would an insignificant insect, you are about to squash.

"A thousand pardons, madamme. The stress to perform to your standards, are making me act hasty. Please forgive me."

"It's alright. I've dealt with griffons before. And you don't have to put so much into your looks for the auditions."

"Incorrect, madamme. I hear you are a fellow performer, and I wish not to squander my chances at making an impression, by appearing before you as anything less than stunning. A chance like this have passed once already, and I shall not accept that to happen once more."

"You have formal training?"

"Informal only. My family never had the means to get me into the opera, yet I snuck near and listened every chance I had. I sung along in the debts of night, regardless of how much they chased me away, until they finally offered me a scholarship. Aaah, the pride in my parents eyes, and the stage... It were all so magnificent.

And then this damned conflict started. The school burned to the ground, everyone I knew slaughtered- It were my time to shine, and instead the world began to fall apart, and I were forced to make it on the streets, like a beggar. I tire of this. I Will show I am worthy of this theater, madamme. I Will elevate myself from the streets!

I feel the fire burning within as we speak. The stage, is it free? Have that ghastly zebra halted his dire craft?"

"Hizu is still preparing. He said we could tell you that you could go first."

"Then let us go, and let me sing til the walls tremble!"

Lest Rasputin had something to quickly say now, or during the whole encounter, they best move to the theater. Their unnamed guest were ready to perform.

Illiad Easle · October 26, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

Once the two of them were out of the building where the other ponies were, Arcade looked like he wanted to say something, but hesitated a bit, seemingly mulling over exactly how to say it, before suddenly deciding to go for it, "The next time we leave, you know, when we go back to New Pegas, Ardee wants to come with us. Thats... what we were talking about in the hall."

He seemed anxious, like he was worried about her response to that.

Both of her parents were home when she got there, their mother on leave from the hospital as she had recently passed the midpoint of the third trimester, and could foal any day within the next few weeks now. Her father was the one to answer the door when Null knocked, drawing her into a tight hug as soon as he recognized her at the door, he spoke quietly into her ear, "We were so worried for you, but we knew you'd make it back."

He look past her to where Arcade was standing awkwardly, "So... who's this colt with you?"

(Void)

The young ponies nodded, helping Void to gather up the dishes and clean them before returning their attention to her, Toupé speaking up, "Well, Miss Vale was telling us about the flying machines, and mentioned that ponies and deer have made other cool things like that, do you know anything like that?"

Vale took that moment to reenter the spotlight, having kept her distance while Null was present, given their less than stellar interactions previously, "I'm glad you thought my presentation was cool Toupé, I'm sure Void has seen many interesting things in her travels, although, I imagine the things she's seen have been more magical in nature, which is still very exciting."

They all looked over at Void, interested to hear what she might share.

(Changelings)

Rasputin was intrigued by the griffoness' selected performance art, "A Diva? I had not thought such a refined art to remain, even in such a limited capacity. Despite not having the lungs to perform as such, I've always had a strong respect for griffonian operas, they were quite popular in Stalliongrad when I was growing up. I look forward in earnest to hear what you have prepared for us."

Blitz Boom · October 27, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2021-10-26 at 6:36 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Once the two of them were out of the building where the other ponies were, Arcade looked like he wanted to say something, but hesitated a bit, seemingly mulling over exactly how to say it, before suddenly deciding to go for it, "The next time we leave, you know, when we go back to New Pegas, Ardee wants to come with us. Thats... what we were talking about in the hall."

"Can't say when that'll be, since I get the feeling I won't be welcome there. We'll talk about it.

Speaking of, you and Ardee... What's your story? You seemed close."

She might be fishing a bit here, but whatever. She wanted to know how nervous she had to be here. Sure Arcade said he hadn't had a marefriend before, but that might just be because he didn't knew what that sort entailed. The two might still have that sort of history. Or Ardee looked to have it, which was a thought that really wasn't helping her right now. Especially as now they were out in public, the feelings began again, as things just hammered at her with intensity. Seriously, how did regular ponies live like this?

On 2021-10-26 at 6:36 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Both of her parents were home when she got there, their mother on leave from the hospital as she had recently passed the midpoint of the third trimester, and could foal any day within the next few weeks now. Her father was the one to answer the door when Null knocked, drawing her into a tight hug as soon as he recognized her at the door, he spoke quietly into her ear, "We were so worried for you, but we knew you'd make it back."

He look past her to where Arcade was standing awkwardly, "So... who's this colt with you?"

Null would hug her father back, enjoying the feeling of his coat. It wasn't the first time she had of course, but after all the years she thought him dead, it never hurt to be reminded that he wasn't just some figment of her imagination, and that he was real.

"Hey, you know me dad. Harder to get rid off than your cactus cake."

There were much that could be said of her fathers cooking. And a lot that shouldn't be said, out of common decency. And when it came to his attempts back in the day of making a healthy cake, the less said about it the better. That being said though, it were a fun one to use to poke her dad with, as it was likely the pinnacle of inedible, in his storied career. At least in her young years.

As for the fate of his cake? Had to be buried. Despite his best attempts, no one wanted to try it, after Void had given a small bite a chance, and vomited for an hour. Not even the garbage collectors anted to touch it, so they had to bury it. Like it were toxic waste.

That was the past though. A lot she could say about the present, but before she had a chance to get into the trip they had, her father had a question that she figured would have come later, but well... *gulp* Time to say it out loud now, right?

On 2021-10-26 at 6:36 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He look past her to where Arcade was standing awkwardly, "So... who's this colt with you?"

"Arcade, this is Exquisite Calligraphy, my father. Dad, this is Arcade. He's my... My coltfriend."

(Void)

On 2021-10-26 at 6:36 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The young ponies nodded, helping Void to gather up the dishes and clean them before returning their attention to her, Toupé speaking up, "Well, Miss Vale was telling us about the flying machines, and mentioned that ponies and deer have made other cool things like that, do you know anything like that?"

"Not a lot about machines, I'm afraid. But I've seen all sorts of creatures fly with magic. Or levitate sometimes. Telekinesis can make you able to levitate yourself, if you're good enough. Saw someone make wings out of magic once, which were interesting. But uhm.,.. Well, magic runs out. Thankfully they didn't hit anything hard when they fell down, and wasn't too high up.

Did go one place, where they infused machines with magic. I think they might've been able to do it, but then again, I wasn't there for long, so I barely got to see anything.

Been around kitsune too, and seen them use magic to jump around on the air. But I think that's special to them. And it might have been an illusion. They're incredibly strong illusionists.

I uhm... have met one creature though, who made metallic wings. Ones that worked too. I couldn't begin to explain how they even worked. Nor the magic ones I've also talked about. Magic used to just vanish around me, so I never understood how it functioned.

I guess, if you want to hear stories from our travels, I could tell some things. Foal friendly things, mind you. But what sort of things would you like to hear about? The kitsune? The gods and demigods we encountered? Some kind of country, or area? A time of year? I uhm... Kinda need a pointer, I guess, to know what sort would interest you."

(Changelings)

The griffon heard what Rasputin said, but did not halt to make a comment. She simply rushed to the stage, where the main area had been nicely cleared by Hizu, to allow the singing to commence at the right point on the stage.

So she would step out, just at the front center of the stage, and looked out on all the empty seats. She imagined them filled to the brim, with an audience of dozens of various kinds of creatures, come from near and far to hear her sing.

She puffed out her chest, rose her right hand to her chest, and then opened her beak.

Her body betrayed her voice, that much were certain. It roared from the beak of the griffon in clear tones. From lows to highs, her voice remained consistent, as she sang a solo piece, that usually needed to have piano music along with it. Yet she did not care one bit, as she gazed out with enough determination shining in her eyes, to actually draw in a few of the changelings that worked here. Yet while they were drawn to the potential food, they stood in the doorway, transfixed on the griffon singing her heart out, due to her. The power in her voice, as her voice rung out through the somewhat open door, and drawing in more of the nearby staff to see what were happening. An audience gathering, certainly didn't lessen her drive. It merely made her almost beam, even more, as she sang the rest of the song.

It were an old one, that Rasputin may know, but it wasn't a widely popular one. Yet she had chosen it, because it required you to be able to showcase a talent for highs and lows, that she meant would prove even more, that even though she had no formal training, she had been driven enough to practice and learn on her own terms, to be able to master this. And she did, from the start, until the last note were uttered.

When it were done, she lowered her hand, and looked out into the theater hall. She were not out of breath, nor sweating. Were it asked, she'd sing again, and from the looks of her having sprung to life as she stood there, and owned the scene, she almost appeared to be expecting it.

As for the dozen workers roughly, who made for the *audience*? They'd stand stunned, and slack-jawed. As would Bling, who'd eventually though, manage to get out of her trance and raise her hooves to clap at the auditioning mare. Followed shortly after by Hizu, and then the workers at the door.

"Ooooh, that was Fantastic! I loved it. The only thing that was missing were the accompanying music, and that's certainly something I have some that can help with. I'm totally sold. What did you think?"

She'd look towards Rasputin, as a smile began to appear on the griffon's face. She'd start to radiate some hope now, showing that whilst she thought she had earned her praise, she still wasn't feeling like she were owed this. She knew there might be rejection here, but with this praise from the owner, then surely that meant there was a chance now, yes? She'd actually be able to make it.

Illiad Easle · October 28, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Speaking of, you and Ardee... What's your story? You seemed close.

Arcade didn't seem to pick up on the subtext of Null's question, "Well, she's the closest thing to family I have. She and I have been around the longest, kept around after our kill dates because Mistress convinced the other academics we'd be useful keeping the others well behaved. The two of us... saw a lot of innocent clones die because they didn't meet their high standards."

He shuddered, "Going through all that, with just each other, was quite the traumatic bonding experience. She wasn't very happy that I left her with the others to go with you, which is why I asked if she could come with us next time, she deserves the chance to find someone like I did with you, someone who she can help, and who can help her."

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Arcade, this is Exquisite Calligraphy, my father. Dad, this is Arcade. He's my... My coltfriend."

Her father stood a bit taller, a bit more scrutiny in his expression, as Arcade nervously waved when introduced. Her father leaned over towards Null, "He's older than he looks... right? You didn't just pick a random colt up off the street right?"

He cracked a smile to show he was joking before resuming his scrutiny, "So, Arcade, how'd you and Null meet?" He turned back towards Null, "We might be a bit, why don't you go in and greet your mother, I'm sure she's even more excited to see you."

He'd close the door behind Null once she was inside, shutting her out of the conversation he'd be having with Arcade.

Inside Null would find Septicity lying on the couch, the late stage of the pregnancy quite apparent, large enough for twins in fact, She looked up when Null entered, surprise and relief evident on her face, "Null! You made it back! I, we were so worried."

She'd start to get off the couch unless Null came over to stop her, "You'll have to tell me everything, I don't get to go out and see much as big as I am now."

(Void)

The young ponies seemed conflicted on what exactly they should ask about, when Vale answered, "Why don't you start by telling them about the kitsune while I find a map, that should give some context to your other stories."

She'd go to dig through the assorted books that had been procured while Void talked about the kitsune, having the ponies' rapt attention.

When Void was done with that story Vale would come back over with a map, it was from before the crisis, but after the Summer War, so not exactly the way Void might have remembered it, for instance it included Appaloosa, Dodge Junction, and Las Pegasus as part of the Trojan Empire, rather than Equestria. It also showed a distinct separation between Cervidas and West Cervidas. "Here's a map! We are over here," she pointed out Troy on the map, almost in the middle of the San Palomino desert, about equidistant between Dodge and South Port, half that distance to North Port, "And here's where Null found you," she pointed out an area near Las Pegasus, "So you six traveled all this way," she traced a line between the two points, "And I bet you thin that was a long trip, but Void and Null traveled all over the place."

She looked over at Void, "If I remember correctly you two started out at Eponsilon, what was that like?"

(Changelings)

Rasputin clapped politely, "Impressive, I hadn't thought it would be possible for one, self taught as you claim, to achieve such a feat. One can only wonder what heights you might have soared to with proper training, ah, if only Dramaturge had survived." He shook his head, "I look forward to seeing what else you are capable of."

Blitz Boom · November 2, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2021-10-28 at 7:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Her father stood a bit taller, a bit more scrutiny in his expression, as Arcade nervously waved when introduced. Her father leaned over towards Null, "He's older than he looks... right? You didn't just pick a random colt up off the street right?"

"He's another... Like me, dad. And I didn't pick him up on the street, though it's his choice to say where he came from."

Null didn't like to say dwarfism, or even say little pony. She just said she were short. As were Arcade, even though she knew there were a technical term for it. It just didn't sit right with her. It sounded like she said something was wrong with her, and she had already felt enough through her life, that others looked at her, and judged her as if she were. She didn't need herself to say it too, and had stubbornly just refused to say so. Other words she tended not to use, or wanted to hear from Void, included Amputee, and Cripple. Didn't make a lot of sense realistically that she didn't want to hear this, but she didn't like the words spoken in her vicinity.

On 2021-10-28 at 7:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He cracked a smile to show he was joking before resuming his scrutiny, "So, Arcade, how'd you and Null meet?" He turned back towards Null, "We might be a bit, why don't you go in and greet your mother, I'm sure she's even more excited to see you."

"Aight. Don't tell him something embarrassing, dad."

Wasn't a lot to pick from, but he could still pick a few from her early years, that wasn't horrible, depressing, or calm. Though she were sure they'd get along fine. The father she knew, were not as judging as she were, and Arcade had gotten through to her. Her father had not changed much all things considered, over the years, so hopefully he wouldn't start to show an ugly side, now that she actually had a suitor.

On 2021-10-28 at 7:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Inside Null would find Septicity lying on the couch, the late stage of the pregnancy quite apparent, large enough for twins in fact, She looked up when Null entered, surprise and relief evident on her face, "Null! You made it back! I, we were so worried."

She'd start to get off the couch unless Null came over to stop her, "You'll have to tell me everything, I don't get to go out and see much as big as I am now."

She wouldn't give her mother a chance to go towards her. Rushing over to the mare instead, to put an insistent hoof on her shoulder.

"You shouldn't move in your state, mom. Keep laying there, alright? I'm fine."

Her eyes shifted away as she said the last few words. Null could lie to others, but she couldn't directly look at her mother, and lie at the same time. She'd probably get that not everything were perfect either, but typical Null, didn't want to put her own troubles on their shoulders. Especially not her mother, now that she looked like she were about ready to explode. This were gonna be one big foal, or several. Might be she'd end up with twins. Crazy how things had gotten over the last few weeks.

...She wondered, if she herself would end up getting this big, if Arcade and her... N-No, that was crazy thoughts. She couldn't possibly...

Her face went red at the thought, and she desperately began to think of anything else, even if it were random, to get the mental image out of her head.

"I'll tell you mom, just stay calm, alright? It's a bit of a long one, and it ain't pretty."

So she'd tell the tale, though she'd tone down some of the worst stuff. Like how she felt when stabbing Grey Mane, and glossing over a little of the details about where she met Arcade, as she didn't want to just tell anyone about that. But the by and large where there, including details on Cabinet Mare. She'd even show the coins she had gotten from that machine, as she reached that part of the story. Though she were reluctant to let go of them.

"- and then we came back here, after going over to Void and the foals. Got some of the local street performers I'm gonna send their way, as a kind of peace offering to Epsilon, but beyond that, I dunno what exactly I'll be doing, until I need to go and live up to my pact the next time. Getting freed from this curse, and Epsilon... It complicates things, but I still got a duty to our family. Grey Mane was the first, but he ain't gonna be the last.

How're you and the foal doing, mom? Must be getting close, right?"

(Void)

On 2021-10-28 at 7:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The young ponies seemed conflicted on what exactly they should ask about, when Vale answered, "Why don't you start by telling them about the kitsune while I find a map, that should give some context to your other stories."

"Okay. Let me try by drawing you a picture. I don't think we have books of them here."

She'd take some paper, and a pencil, then start to draw first a pony for scale, and then a fox next to it. Longer and taller than normal, with it being slightly bigger than your average pony in fact, even if you didn't count the tail, and wearing a robe.

"This is a kitsune. They're intelligent like ponies, if not more so, and hail from the east. Somewhere in the great nation of Neighpon. They're usually friendly and curious, unless you threaten their kits, in which case you'll probably never be found again. Not if you're the sort who'd try and trap and sell them at least, though they can still punish you a lot for making a move on their young in general. They're rather protective like that.

They're highly magical creatures, with a specialty for illusions. Kind of like changelings, but less about just camouflaging themselves, and more distorting reality around them. Even with our aura, we had a hard time getting out of their illusions, and they used it to trap us the one time we got near their capitol. They treated us fairly okay though. They were just curious, and once we managed to find our way out of the maze, they let us go without issue.

I don't know how their villages looks like though. Finding their main residence were hard, if they didn't want you to, and that extended to smaller encampments too, from what I heard. They generally didn't mingle in politics, or governing in Neighpon though. They're tricksters. They prefer to live their own lives, with their own cultures, and mostly goes out and mingle, to mess around with others, for the fun of it. Or to educate their kits. The general warning went that if an adult showed up, with a bunch of kits around them, and had you isolated, the smart move were just to go along with what they were doing, and be respectful, and they'd be on their way soon enough.

I don't know how the crisis hit them. Maybe their lands got burned too, or they managed to hide in their capitol, hidden behind enough illusions to keep them safe... *sigh* There's probably some of them hiding around the world, either because their place fell, or they were out exploring, and got caught up in the mess. Wouldn't be surprised if there were even one in Troy. This one pony keeps giving me the strangest, knowing look, whenever I see her, and runs about when I go near... Might just be paranoid though."

Was an odd one at the market, dealing in what looked like trinkets of some sort. She never saw the mare sell anything, but at the end of the day, her stand did look emptier, and she just stood there, gazing at her as she walked past, with a small smirk, and a glimmer in her eyes... She were honestly rather creepy, since that kind of focus seemed to mostly be directed at her. She had wondered if maybe this one were one of the trickster foxes, but since she always took off when Void went too near, it were impossible for her to say. She tried following her of course, but the mare would slink away to an alley, and suddenly be gone. Only to be back at the stand when she turned around, and went back to the market.

On 2021-10-28 at 7:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

When Void was done with that story Vale would come back over with a map, it was from before the crisis, but after the Summer War, so not exactly the way Void might have remembered it, for instance it included Appaloosa, Dodge Junction, and Las Pegasus as part of the Trojan Empire, rather than Equestria. It also showed a distinct separation between Cervidas and West Cervidas. "Here's a map! We are over here," she pointed out Troy on the map, almost in the middle of the San Palomino desert, about equidistant between Dodge and South Port, half that distance to North Port, "And here's where Null found you," she pointed out an area near Las Pegasus, "So you six traveled all this way," she traced a line between the two points, "And I bet you thin that was a long trip, but Void and Null traveled all over the place."

She looked over at Void, "If I remember correctly you two started out at Eponsilon, what was that like?"

"Well, we weren't everywhere. We didn't really go into Zebrica, since something were making Null's health go drastically dire, pretty early on, so we had to move on. We also weren't in Hayden, or a few of the other, smaller nations, but we've been many places, yeah.

And Eponsilon... It was home, but not... It wasn't... *sigh* It's not so much a town for regular ponies. We thought it were, but we've learned some things, that makes it sound like the town was mostly,, if not fully, lived in by just The Grey, who guarded the area, and then various workers from a facility. Big sis and I had different mothers, but we never knew. We were taken from the hospitals we were born in, and taken in, due to our aura. They had us raised up in a controlled environment, by two researchers. Mom was one of them, whom you've met, but she betrayed them. Same did dad, after they tried cutting Null's flight feathers, to make it so she couldn't fly around, and drop her cursed feathers around, and I tried saving her. It... Became a huge accident. Was how I lost my leg, and my sister her wing. Dad even had to amputate Null's wing himself.

They couldn't bear it anymore after that. They'd only been supposed to be our caretakers, but we were a family, and they didn't like to see us hurt like that. So they tried to run away with us. Like your mistress did for you. They didn't make it out of Troy with us though, and Null... Didn't take what happened well, since we thought they were gone forever. And since she had to take care of both of us, out in the big, scary world. It's not a nice place to face alone, when you're only six.

Anyway, she's doing better, but please excuse her, if she acts odd, okay? She doesn't mean anything bad. She's just a little broken inside, and doesn't know how to handle everything.

A-Anyway, I guess I got a little off track, making a history lesson out of this. The town wasn't much to be happy about. A lot of overly serious, grumpy ponies, that didn't want us near them, or the other foals in general. Only ones that we had there to count on, were the researchers we grew up with, and were told were our parents. Blood or not, we still see them like that now, since they took care of us, and risked their lives for us. You don't do that, unless those you're doing it for, means something to you.

Your mistress probably meant a lot to you all as well, right? Whenever she's brought up, I see a lot of reverence for her at least. She seems like a good pony."

(Changelings)

"Informal, not self taught per se. I overheard many of their lessons - at great risk I might add - to learn as much as I could, then went to a desolate mountain peak to train. Year after year, rejections and security chasing me around time and time again, but I persevered, because I belong on the stage. It called upon me, even as everyone told me I would never escape the iron grasp of poverty, like my parents before me. This were... It were my moment to shine, and I have given my very best."

She clutched her chest, where two oddly colored feathers, in a thin, cheap iron chain, wrapped around an old down, laid hidden. She hid it in her chest fluff, yet she would not let go of this, even as she stood here on the stage. Especially not then, as this were the closest she now had, to have her parents see her unfolded in all her glory, on a grand stage. They had so wished they could offer her something better in life than they had, yet gifts were rare, and little more than being inventive with what others had thrown away. What little means they had, were needed to keep a roof over their head, and some food beyond what they could at times have the permission to hunt, sat upon the table.

This trinket were the first gift they had given her. The first down she shed, along with a feather from each of their chests, right above the heart, on a chain they had found cast aside, and cleaned up. Until the last day she saw them, she knew they lamented that they had no more to give her, despite her telling them that she had gotten their undying love, which meant more to her than gold, and shiny tokens. Every little thing she had gotten as a child, and growing up, she had treasured, regardless of it being something others cast aside. A stitched up bear as an example, were not trash for her. It were the thing she clutched as she went to sleep for many years, and loved like you would a pet.

On the day she had finally gotten the grant, to study at the prestigious school, she had been ready to rush to them, and have them ready themselves, to attend the official grant signing. Little hope as it seemed she had, they had always been supporting her dream, of standing on a grand stage, and believed in her, even when she felt thrown aside. Rejected for her status, without them even willing to hear her voice, but they had been there to cheer her up again. They told her to push on, and not let others dictate what she was, and wasn't able to do.

All she wanted was to make them proud of her, as she achieved her dream. Thank them as she stood on stage first when getting the grant, and then later, when she'd inevitably pass the school, and erupt unto the world stage. She would be risen above poverty, but she didn't care to swim in luxury. She wanted to support them, and give them the life in their older age, that they hadn't been able to get, instead of having them struggle in the old, small, patched up place they had always lived in.

And then in a flash... Everything was gone. They were dead, the school torched, and the world laid in ruins. She struggled to survive to even get to Troy, and when she did, she ended up more poverty stricken than she ever had before. The few coins she managed to gain by singing, working with what little she could get for various menial labor that were needed, and it barely got her a room most evenings. This trinket were all she had left that made her fight on, as it reminded her of her parents, and their wished that she kept chasing that dream.

An impossible one it seemed, yet the gates got closed. The world began to slowly calm down, and then this small mare, who had been part of that, came and told her of a place that sought talent. She needed to travel, but there were hope of her dream being realized there, and she jumped at the chance. Everything she owed, were used to pay the fare here, yet she may still have not been able to do so, had Hizu not helped her.

Her tone before betrayed fact, as she found him to be a new addition to her life, yet a close friend. He had come to her in Troy, on a particularly hard day, a few hours after arriving, and given her money to buy a meal, as well as medicine to heal a wound that were starting to fester. He were an outstretched hoof, and an ear to listen to her plights, even if he knew much of them already. Yet he knew she needed to speak with someone, but didn't know who to reach out to, so he had taken that first step himself.

It had been a tumultuous few days, as they had a few trail and error things - such as when Hizu brought up her parents, and she had punched him in the face - but they had gotten to the stage where she considered him a friend, even if they had known one another for less than a week.

They were technically competition at the market, with him getting more attention than her, but it didn't change her view on him. He still were a great help, and as it had turned out, were not exactly poor, so he didn't much care for when it were slow days, or if he needed to help cover for them both. Tempting as his means were though, she'd never steal from him, even when they were on a little shaky ground after the punching incident. She may be poverty stricken, but she refused to be a thief. Her parents would not have wanted that for her, and she held their memory in high regards. Though it were nice to have someone present, and alive, to also stand by her, and tell her what she needed to hear, as she were feeling a bit of a defeat, by hearing her means were not enough to get with the caravan to this town. The answer to a question she had yet to utter from her beak, as he paid the difference for her, and told her that he believed in her.

He did so now too, as he wandered from his cauldron, and over to her, where he put a hoof on her shoulder.

"Your heart is shown, yet an answer must be known. Bling of hive Cheshire, is Florence whom you desire?"

"Oh, absolutely. No objections from anyone else, and I doubt there will be, once they hear your voice. You have an amazing voice, Florence, and I'd be happy to employ you."

A loud shriek of joy escaped Florence's beak, and she turned to grab Hizu in a tight embrace.

"I did it, Hizu! I finally made it!"

"You are too great to fall, once you give it your all."

He'd embrace her back, joining in on her celebration. Hopefully they would respect his act too, that they may perform here together.

Illiad Easle · November 3, 2021

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"He's another... Like me, dad. And I didn't pick him up on the street, though it's his choice to say where he came from."

Her father raised an eyebrow at that, as there were a great deal of things she could have been referring to by saying Arcade was like her, but he didn't ask her to clarify, he'd likely be able to get Arcade to elaborate on that.

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Aight. Don't tell him something embarrassing, dad."

He chuckled at that, "Don't worry, I'll save it for the wedding."

That seemed to surprise Arcade a bit.

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"You shouldn't move in your state, mom. Keep laying there, alright? I'm fine."

She rolled her eyes at that, but settled down, not fully reclined like she had been, but not fully sitting up either, simply propped up a bit to better be able to look at Null as she relayed her story.

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"- and then we came back here, after going over to Void and the foals. Got some of the local street performers I'm gonna send their way, as a kind of peace offering to Epsilon, but beyond that, I dunno what exactly I'll be doing, until I need to go and live up to my pact the next time. Getting freed from this curse, and Epsilon... It complicates things, but I still got a duty to our family. Grey Mane was the first, but he ain't gonna be the last.

While she did look concerned at points, she seemed more saddened by the story than surprised, "Void's been caring for the other young ponies you saved, but I guess you already saw that. They had me give them a basic checkup before I got too big to move around much. I know they're clones, and that you found them in an abandoned Deep Science facility, you don't need to hide that from me." She smirked before returning to her concerned expression, "Arcade seems like a perfect gentlecolt, at least from what I've heard, I think the two of you will be quite happy together." She sighed, "Still, it sounds like you didn't quite get the closure you wanted from this. Sometimes things don't end like we want them to, the question is whether you're going to let it go, or keep throwing yourself at it until it changes, or you die trying." She looked down, "Still, if it hadn't been for Epsilon, you'd probably be the next Gray Mare, and you and Void would still bear the curse. Maybe this is the better outcome? I... I don't want you to risk your life, again, trying to do what might be impossible, for someone you hardly even know." She gave a rueful chuckle as she shook her head, "But I know I won't be able to deter you if you've set your mind to it."

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

How're you and the foal doing, mom? Must be getting close, right?"

She seemed relieved for the change in subject, "We're all doing well, hitting all the proper benchmarks to deliver a pair of healthy foals. They could come any day now, but we're looking at early next week if they don't come before then."

She looked down at her belly, speaking softly "I can hardly wait. They'll be among the first births in Troy since the crisis, and thanks to you and Void they'll have a good world to grow up in."

She looked back up at Null, "Whatever you decide, I hope you'll be around to help them too."

(Void)

They all listened closely as Void described the creature, it was apparent that they had never seen one before, as none of them had any sort of recognition in their expression given the picture or description.

They all listened with concern as Void related the story of her and Null's past, the foals coming over to her when she started to look upset by the story she was telling.

On 2021-11-01 at 6:00 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Your mistress probably meant a lot to you all as well, right? Whenever she's brought up, I see a lot of reverence for her at least. She seems like a good pony.

They nodded, Toupé speaking up, "She did everything she could for us, short of getting us out of that last facility where you found us. Kept us safe from the others who would hurt us when we didn't act right."

Elef followed up, "You got to find your family again... do you think we'll get to see Mistress again? Someday?"

(Changelings)

Rasputin followed along with the emotional undercurrents that accompanied the griffon Diva's culmination of her life goals, clearly she had a storied history for this to be so meaningful to her, perhaps one day he'd hear it. Still, he nodded in his own approval of the act, not that Bling would be swayed by his dissent had he offered it.

He turned to the zebra, "Now, I believe it is your turn to prove your worth. I'll admit I have no experience with which to compare your act to. Whether that is a hinderance or a blessing to you remains to be seen."

Blitz Boom · November 4, 2021

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2021-11-03 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He chuckled at that, "Don't worry, I'll save it for the wedding."

That seemed to surprise Arcade a bit.

"Dad!"

Null looked frustrated at her father. Had it been another, she'd have started to go with kicking maybe. Or at least an angry, rude outburst. Perhaps a threat even. But this were her dad. She didn't have it in her to treat him that way. So she just had an embarrassed outburst, and hastily moved along, before she'd have to show them a face as red as a tomato.

On 2021-11-03 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

While she did look concerned at points, she seemed more saddened by the story than surprised, "Void's been caring for the other young ponies you saved, but I guess you already saw that. They had me give them a basic checkup before I got too big to move around much. I know they're clones, and that you found them in an abandoned Deep Science facility, you don't need to hide that from me." She smirked before returning to her concerned expression, "Arcade seems like a perfect gentlecolt, at least from what I've heard, I think the two of you will be quite happy together." She sighed, "Still, it sounds like you didn't quite get the closure you wanted from this. Sometimes things don't end like we want them to, the question is whether you're going to let it go, or keep throwing yourself at it until it changes, or you die trying." She looked down, "Still, if it hadn't been for Epsilon, you'd probably be the next Gray Mare, and you and Void would still bear the curse. Maybe this is the better outcome? I... I don't want you to risk your life, again, trying to do what might be impossible, for someone you hardly even know." She gave a rueful chuckle as she shook her head, "But I know I won't be able to deter you if you've set your mind to it."

"I... *sigh* I don't know what to do. I barely know her, but she's still family. And what if she then doesn't have foals? It'd come back to haunt our bloodline then, right? The consul said that the god keeping a grasp in the Grey line, didn't want to let go of it. Being disowned, doesn't mean it won't come back for us later.

But I still don't know if I'm not just overthinking this. And to defeat a god, you're pretty much gonna need the power of another, stronger god. Met enough of those to be hesitant making deals with them.

It's one of those things I need to think about, and I don't know if I'll ever find an answer. But even if I let that go, I don't think I can stay here forever. Grey Mane were a... Difficult one to get through, but it had to happen. And there's more out there like that. End of the world might have happened, but it's gone now, and there's still a lot of trash, just ready to fill out that void of misery that's being left. If they aren't dealt with, we're gonna end up like it were before with 'em. Maybe worse.

But..."

Null bit her lip, unsure if she should say the next thing. It didn't make her seem strong, but this were her mother. She could show a little vulnerability around her, right? There weren't a need to keep up the facade completely here.

"I worry that it's gonna chip away at me. Never mattered before now, all that much. I'm the sword of the family. It's my job to go and fight, to keep all of you safe. I don't know how to just settle down, and live calmly. But now I got Arcade, and I worry that if I press on too much out there, I'm gonna end up losing him. Never thought there'd be anyone who'd want someone like me, that I'd need to think about like this. It was all just about finding Void the home I owed her, and then... Unshackle her from the last thing, that reminded her of the past.

Things aren't that simple anymore. You're alive, Void found herself a home, and someone to take care of- Things here is fine, and I've gotten a little help, to not try something dumb again. The only sort of help I know how to provide, aren't needed here in Troy anymore.

I dunno... It's all just so confusing. And this sensory overload ain't helping either. How does regular ponies live all their lives with everything just crashing at you like this?"

She tried to deflect from a rather important one she had let out there, as she hadn't openly talked about how she had planned to kill herself, as part of her mission to save Void properly. Void had told them how her sister had tried, and had worried she might try a few times, as they grew up, but Null hadn't acknowledged it, nor indicated that she planned on doing in for about thirteen years now, give or take a few years.

On 2021-11-03 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She seemed relieved for the change in subject, "We're all doing well, hitting all the proper benchmarks to deliver a pair of healthy foals. They could come any day now, but we're looking at early next week if they don't come before then."

She looked down at her belly, speaking softly "I can hardly wait. They'll be among the first births in Troy since the crisis, and thanks to you and Void they'll have a good world to grow up in."

She looked back up at Null, "Whatever you decide, I hope you'll be around to help them too."

"I'll stay, until I know they're safe, but I'm gonna need to think on when, or if, I'll leave eventually. Even if I do though, I know Void is gonna keep you all safe here. She's always been the heart, but when push comes to shove, I know she'll also be stalwart, and protect our family. Only thing they're not gonna be protected from, is her spoiling the foals rotten. Might be she have the others to care for too, but she doesn't have a limit on her love. She's gonna make a good mother herself some day. Once she finds a good stallion. Whom I won't break the kneecaps on.

Though I guess, she's already functioning like one now. I swear, if I didn't know her, then the way she looked at the clones, would make me think that she were their actual, overprotective mother. She always got your best traits like that, mom. And thankfully not dad's cooking skills. He hasn't gone and tried baking again in recent days, right? Don't want you getting poisoned this close to term."

(Void)

On 2021-11-03 at 4:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

They nodded, Toupé speaking up, "She did everything she could for us, short of getting us out of that last facility where you found us. Kept us safe from the others who would hurt us when we didn't act right."

Elef followed up, "You got to find your family again... do you think we'll get to see Mistress again? Someday?"

Void would be cuddling the little foals close, as she were asked questions by Toupé and Elef. They had come over to seemingly comfort her, and she weren't going to sulk with the two of them around. They were too precious to not raise her mood.

"It sounded like she might've gone to The Æther. If she's there, she'll come back someday. And I'm sure that she'll be thrilled to see you again. If I were in her place, I'd be worried sick about you. But you don't have to worry. We'll make sure that you're safe, and when The Æther someday comes back, you'll all have a lot to catch up on. I give you my word, even if you've all moved some way from here, I'll take care of gathering up everyone.

And if... The worst happened, I'll make sure to craft a nice memorial for her. But let's try and hope for the best, okay? Hope is an important thing to have. It keeps us going, even when the days seem bleak. And being stranded in that facility, without your mistress, I can imagine a lot of the days weren't too kind.

Actually, could I ask how it were? When Null found you? I didn't get a lot of details about that day. Like, how did Arcade and her run into one another?"

(Changelings)

"This I will impart: MY trade is not for the faint of heart. The time is right for you to know, as I present my show. Yet I will need a volunteer. How about... You there?"

Hizu would point towards one of the changelings at the door. An average looking, nothing special drone, that'd look confused as he were waved up towards the stage. But hey, why not, right? How bad could it be?

The others that had been standing at the door would be waved in as well, as Hizu rolled his cauldron over. Those he'd point towards the seats however, as his act were better with an audience present. He'd also direct Rasputin, Bruce, and Bling to do the same.

Once everyone were in their seats, he'd take a small bottle out from within his robes, and pour three drops of a golden-green liquid into the cauldron. At which point, thick fog would begin to pour out of it, and soon be rolling around the entire room. It had a somewhat minty smell in it, and would cover both the floor of the scene, and in the audience rows, up to about halfway around the body, of regular sized ponies, though the smell would be throughout the room.

He'd then guide his volunteer closer, and then stick his own hoof down into the liquid in the cauldron. It would return with a pale white liquid, dripping from his entire hoof.

He'd move the changeling to stand next to the cauldron, and then rise up the hoof, and pushing it at the back of the changeling's head.

The changeling's eyes went white, and his mouth opened in a silent gasp for air, as he seemed to freeze in place. And all the while, the zebra would glance out at the audience.

"Is he mostly a bug, or perhaps a horse? Let's see which half might stay the course."

His hoof would push right through the changeling's head, and then he'd chop down, splitting the changeling in half. An action which got a gasp from most of the audience, but not as much as when the left half flashed green, and now looked like an amber-eyed, silver-coated pony. Whilst the other half would flash, and there stood a three meter tall, insectoid creature, reminiscent of a preying mantis. The pony would look confused, whereas the mantis... Well, it looked hungry, until it dashed forward, and put a clawed fist right through the pony.

The pony didn't even get to say much more than gurgling sounds of pain, as blood splattered across the stage, as well as Hizu, who simply stood with a widening smile, as the pony's head were chewed off, and hastily devoured. The corpse then thrown from the mantis' blade, before it looked around for new prey. And what a delight. The audience were right there.

"It seems I was wrong. I thought the pony side strong. Let us lay down this beast, before it decides to fe-"

Further he didn't get, before the mantid slashed him in half, and then flew right down towards the audience, mouth open, and heading right for Bling.

Bruce jumped n front of her, while the others screamed. This were not how he thought he'd die, but it appeared something disastrous had happened here, and he wasn't sure he could defeat this thing.

He'd stand, teeth gnashed, and about to thrust his hoof into this things face, when it hit him straight on. He could feel the warmth of its breath, and the teeth that engulfed his head, biting down-

And then, *Poof*, it exploded into fog.

Confused, and with a racing pulse, he'd look around, and soon enough, would gaze upon the stage, where the now one piece Hizu stood, and looked down upon the others, whilst the changeling he had taken up on stage, were patting himself down, majorly confused, and seemingly checking if he were still in one piece.

"With fear you now glow. Are you enjoying the show?"

His smile were devious, though he only looked down with amusement, as the varied beings would likely start to realize what exactly had happened.

It was the fog. It didn't have the ability to crush anyone, or tear them into other beings. But what it did do, were carrying a powerful suggestive nature to it, as well as being hypnotic. Depending on the way he mixed, and applied it, he could direct what kind of illusions would come from this. And due to the nature of the mixture, those inhaling it, would feel the effects far more vividly. They'd feel as if something were about to eat them, for instance. Or as the changeling on stage could attest, believe fully that they had been split up, into a rational pony, and instinct driven, feral bug, up until Hizu dispelled the illusion.

"W-Woah. that was... How did you even do that?! It felt so real, I was sure it was happening. Holy hive, my heart's racing."

As the scare had dampened now, the volunteer could begin to be proper impressed with what had gone on, as his adrenaline kicked in. This rush, were one that several enjoyed, though Hizu's performance did carry a caveat: He refused to perform, if one with a weak heart were in his audience. His purpose were to entertain, and scare. Not give someone a heart attack.

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