private Deep Science 1x1 with Blitz Boom

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

"I want them to have it. They gave us a lot of comfort back then. Hopefully, it'll do the same for them."

"Big sis is right. I missed this one when we had to leave, but it's time he makes some other foals life comfy. If they're anything like me, they'll enjoy sleeping on it. The big plus, of an oversized plushie, even if it got dirty a lot, when I started to try and drag it around. I can almost not remember being that small anymore."

"I can. Harder thing for me to remember, is when we could look eye to eye."

They used to be pretty even in size honestly. Until Void hit a sudden growth spurt, and Null... Well, didn't. Especially as they became teenagers, it became more and more apparent, how Null would just never really get anywhere, whilst Void were complaining about growth pains. The amount of times Null had secretly glared at her sister with envy, when she weren't looking, were staggering. She hadn't done anything because of it though, beyond a few comments here and there, when she got extra sour. But she were still just a pony. She could be as envious as any, and seeing how Void started getting the attention of various stallion as she grew up, and she at best, got creeps leering at her, in a way that made her want to shower fifteen times in a row, it were hard not to be a little envious. A little petty perhaps, but that were, what it were.

To think that she had been the first to get a coltfriend, were staggering. Though as it stood, Void might not be too far behind. Null were going to go all big sister on Molotov though. Threats, growls, you name it. And if he called her Shorty again, she'd throw him into a wall. If it was meant to be, Void and him, would get past it.

In any case, Void started to let out a yawn, as the mention of rest came up. And then Null would follow shortly after, yawning to hard, that she could feel her legs stagger a little. Today had been a bit more draining, then she had thought, it seemed. Good it hadn't lasted longer then, but for now, she should go get some rest.

"Guess that wouldn't be a bad idea. Let's go to bed, Arcade.

To get some rest, Void. I don't need to be in eye height, to know what you're thinking. And no comments, dad. Please."

It was hard for her to be strict with her father, so she could just hope he wouldn't say something, about her choice of words. It wasn't like she were planning to... N-Not now! It were too early for that sort of thing. B-Besides, this was her parents house, it wouldn't...

Null would wander off towards what she thought might be the direction of the guest room, with no more words, and a head flaring up like a tomato. She'd prefer not to dig herself in deeper.

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

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-03-08 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Over the intercom, "What are you doing? Don't you think it's best to let sleeping dogs lie?"

"Maybe if these things were marked as *Mimic: Keep to yerself, and shut up.* I might've. For all I knew, it could've been a survivor. You think I know everything 'bout this place, or the timeframe? I ain't a seer. Thankfully. Those folks must be miserable."

Molotov had pulled back from the elevator before talking back, and were headed towards the Tesla Gate. A bit of a shame he couldn't see more, despite knowing that it would be pretty darn dumb. Whatever that thing were, might not want, or could climb the shaft, but if he made more ruckus, it might. And while he weren't sure what kinda mimic this were, as he had never seen this variety, his pa had been a researcher into many sorts of creatures. Some of them, being mimics. After his disappearance, and presumed death, during one of his trips, Molotov had come to find comfort, in his fathers work. Read a lot of fascinating things there, like with mimics. Varied and special in all their own ways, but they all had one thing in common: They were predators. The mimicry were their way to lure in folks, via things like voices, or looking enticing. The classic treasure chest mimic, being one example of the latter.

And since he'd rather not be devoured by one, this seemed a good time to back off, and be cautious of unknown voices, moving forward.

Which would eventually, bring Felecia and him, to the Tesla Gate. A sight that'd make him halt, and scratch his chin.

"Brrr. I feel it tingle in my spine. Electricity's in the air. Must be something with this... Tesla Gate, it says? I could've sworn I read about somethin' called that, somewhere... Darned if I can remember right now.

Aight, let's see what we're dealing with, the old fashioned way. Finding something to throw through it."

Anything lose he could see, he'd throw, and see what happened. If nothing... Well, he'd zoom in with his lens, and look closer at the walls, looking for something to work with.

After having the chip implanted on his spine, that made his wings possible to function, without magical input, Molotov had a few side effects. Most notable one, being a tingling sensation in his spine, when around too much electricity. Like with thunderclouds, for instance.

His newer designs didn't require this sort of invasive surgery. He had developed a powerful enough, short range sender and receiver, to make it function without it, but he still had the old one in him. Worked like a charm, but the doc had said that there were a 16.7% chance he'd be paralyzed for life. He had been willing to take that risk, but he wouldn't let others do that.

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

 

(Yannit)

On 2022-03-08 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Sandy nodded, "You... you're right. You... you probably want to rest, right? I... I might have taken over your part of the room. But it shouldn't take long to put everything back! I... I'll help put everything just the way it was."

She'd hurry off in the direction of the rooms, holding the door open for Yannit to enter. True enough it seemed most of Peace's stuff had been pushed off to a corner, stacked up on a bedframe, while Sandy's bed now had two mattresses.

What had it been? A few days? And yet, Sandy had seemed awfully willing, to take Peace's possessions, and push her other stuff aside, like it were filler... Interesting... Maybe she needed to have a chat with Peace, about Sandy. She would do well in knowing what were baseline for this mare, though currently, her thoughts were still that the mare were a suspect. Or at least, a rather sucky friend.

*sigh* The things one had to go through, to keep up appearances...

"Not what I hoped to come back to, but I guess it's better than it all being tossed. Could you perhaps put the mattress back first, please? It'd be nice being able to lie down again. We can look at the other stuff after that, yeah?"

On 2022-03-08 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

As they were in the room, someone passed by outside, a flash of anger came off them, but they had passed by the door too quickly for Yannit to see who it was.

She wished to say more, but she became alerted, to someone passing by, with a lot of anger rolling off from them. Almost seething. Now, why would one be angry, at knowing one had returned to them? Perhaps, it had something to do, with them not expecting her to come back, after they had sold her out, and now were angry that the gang hadn't finished the job properly?

This called for inspection, but anger were a fleeting thing, and whomever it were, were likely already gone. Though perhaps she could trace them? It seemed prudent to try. Now for an excuse...

"Urgh... Actually, on second thought, I need some water first. I'll come back soon."

With that, she'd wander out of the room, clearing her throat, to make it sound as if she needed liquid, and began wandering down the path, that she had felt the anger go down. Direction were a nice thing, though it didn't linger per se, unless you were exceptional in tracking. Which she sadly, were not. It had to be pretty strong hatred, for it to linger even a bit. But she had a direction to go with. That were a start.

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

 

(Bling)

On 2022-03-08 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She sighed and turned her attention to Bling, "Downbee, that's the moth's name, thanks you for the compliment. He's selling Moth Helms, like the one he's wearing. It made him able to hear and understand normal speech, but all he ever wants to talk about is the Moth Helm. Unfortunately, you'll need to supply the moth yourself. Downbee can't seem to get a female to stich around long enough to make more moths, I can't imagine why."

The moth, Downbee, thumped harder than usual against her horn, which made her eye twitch, but she continued, "So, would you be interested in buying a Moth Helm?"

"Awh, the little fellah just needs to find one who is enthusiastic, like himself. I'm sure you'll find somebuggy who'll appreciate you, Downbee. Though maybe diversify a bit? Tell them a few compliments first. You'd sell yourself better, if you seem likable. Though I'm not sure what moth compliments are... Huh. Never thought I'd say that.

I know a place with some moths. No one his size, but then, I haven't really looked. I'll try and remember you two, if I do run into one."

They had a... Complicated, relationship with moths, in her old theater. They were adorable little critters, and from a purely visual standpoint, they were great. But them laying eggs in cloth, which included their theater getups, were not ideal. Especially when their funds were limited, and their stuff already fairly old to begin with. Mothballs and proper storage had managed to keep things safe eventually though, so they mostly left the little ones alone. Were one room they always seemed more drawn to then others though, and even these days, they had a few that tended to flutter about there sometimes. Maybe she could ask Critter Crawler to try and track where they came from, and eye if there were a swarm with some larger members somewhere? Or at least one, that'd fit the size of the moth hat.

"I'd like to buy a Moth Helm, please. And can I ask something? The way you're getting tapped, is that Horse Code? I had a friend once, who really liked that. Taught me a few things, and this looks familiar. I really need to brush up on it though, I can see. Pretty rusty."

Might this be a scam? Possibly. But the moth did seem sentient, so there were some legitimacy here, judging by the horse code. Could be extremely well done training though. It were hard to say.

Also, the chance of perhaps getting a somewhat higher sentience, moth pet? She were certainly enticed, and she had some disposable income these days. Long as it wasn't ridiculously expensive, she'd probably be alright, spending some here.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

Their dad waved a hoof dismissively, "Comments? Me? Perish the thought!" He chuckled to himself, which morphed into a yawn, "No, no, far too tired for that, which hopefully is the same for the two of you." He gave them one last smirk before turning back to his own room, "Goodnight you two, three, sweet dreams."

He'd then leave them alone to join his wife for the rest of the night.

Arcade would follow Null dutifully, they'd find the guest room just opposite the nursery, which would be convenient for them to help with the foals if they came to visit later on. The bed in there was actually a pair of single beds that were slotted together, just like the twin's crib. Seemed like they had gotten the bed both with the sisters and the twins growing up in mind. Arcade went to inspect the bed, "What do you think he meant by that? Also, do you want the beds together? Or apart? I... I'm fine either way."

(Is Void staying here? Or is she headed back?)

 

(Molotov)

The gate would hum with electricity, stronger the closer he got to it, though it would not react to the object he threw through it, provided the object was inorganic, and unless he was going to throw part of the rotting corpse, there wasn't much organic parts to throw.

If Molotov approached cautiously enough, the gate would fire off once he was within half a length of it, forming a wall of pure electricity for a second before starting to charge again. It looked like, if he moved right after it fired, he'd be able to get through before it fired again.

Assuming Felicia did not contain any organic components, she'd be able to get through the gate without issue, given a sufficient distance from Molotov.

 

Opening the door to the next room would reveal a four way hallway, with doors to the East, South, and West, as they were approaching from the North.

Standing in the middle of the crossroads was a golem like the on6e Colonel had taken control of earlier, only this one was covered in strange blood runes, it's hands were replaced with long spikes, and it was staring directly at them. It stood perfectly still, as if held there.

 

(Yannit)

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Not what I hoped to come back to, but I guess it's better than it all being tossed. Could you perhaps put the mattress back first, please? It'd be nice being able to lie down again. We can look at the other stuff after that, yeah?"

Sandy looked down, "Sorry again, but... you did say I'd get your room and stuff if you died." Nonetheless, she was quick about moving Peace's mattress back onto Peace's bed, it did seem to be the better of the two mattresses in the room.

There was a twinge of guilt and sorrow from Sandy when Yannit decided to leave, "Oh, okay, I'll... I'll just put your stuff back in the mean time."

 

The motel turned embassy was well designed, for a labyrinth, there weren't many sightlines that extended more than a few lengths in any direction, so no matter which way she might have looked, whoever had passed had already rounded a corner by the time she came out to look, and going further than that the trail grew too muddled to keep searching. Still, what she did know, was that someone present in the embassy was not happy to see her in the slightest.

 

(Bling)

The mare looked somewhat somewhat surprised when Bling offered to buy one, "You serious? Alright then, Go ahead and pick one, they're all the same." It was a little bit more than Bling might have guessed, but it was well within her price range, and far from the most expensive thing at the market today. The mare would accept any form of currency, Debt preferred, "Thank you, I'm pretty sure you're the first one who's bought one, beside me." She looked the slightest bit hopeful, "If you do find a moth that will wear it, could you come back? I'm sure Downbee would appreciate the company."

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

The way you're getting tapped, is that Horse Code? I had a friend once, who really liked that. Taught me a few things, and this looks familiar. I really need to brush up on it though, I can see. Pretty rusty."

She nodded, "Yes, it is. Supposedly the Moth Helm made Downbee able to hear and understand normal speech, and also taught him Horse code to communicate back. I've tried to get him to tap anything else, like a tiny telegraph, but he refuses. So, that's something you'll have to look forward to."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Their dad waved a hoof dismissively, "Comments? Me? Perish the thought!" He chuckled to himself, which morphed into a yawn, "No, no, far too tired for that, which hopefully is the same for the two of you." He gave them one last smirk before turning back to his own room, "Goodnight you two, three, sweet dreams."

Null just kept walking, while Void let out a sigh, and looked towards their father. He were getting more enjoyment out of teasing Null, than he probably should. Or he were trying to be pushy in his own way, for the two of them to get hitched, so he could have some grandfoals. She'd admit, the two of them were pretty cute together, but trying to force them along seemed a bit premature. It'd be better if it just evolved as it should. Though she needed to have a chat with Null. She wanted to make sure her sister wasn't going to show her self-destructive side here, and push him away.

Saying her own goodnights, Void would wander off, to find herself some rest of her own, while Arcade and Null were moving along their domicile, for the evening.

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade would follow Null dutifully, they'd find the guest room just opposite the nursery, which would be convenient for them to help with the foals if they came to visit later on. The bed in there was actually a pair of single beds that were slotted together, just like the twin's crib. Seemed like they had gotten the bed both with the sisters and the twins growing up in mind. Arcade went to inspect the bed, "What do you think he meant by that? Also, do you want the beds together? Or apart? I... I'm fine either way."

"What h-he meant... I'll tell you tomorrow, in private. I don't know how thick the walls are here."

Now, she didn't think that something would come of it, nor that anyone had actually heard her, but she didn't trust her own judgement about this subject enough, to not think things could escalate. And if they did, she did not want for that to be in her parents house. Doubly so, not next to the nursery, of her soon-to-be-born siblings. Odds were low that it would go beyond just a talk, she supposed, but with everything stacked up, and how flustered she already felt, after the teasing, she'd prefer not to risk anything.

"And the uhm, b-beds... If you don't mind, c-could we keep them... Together? I'm still not used to sleeping alone, and I-I think it could be nice with uhm... Cuddling. I-I'll show you how to do that, if you d-don't know."

Null hadn't been sleeping alone, for the vast majority of her life. On the run, her and Void, had almost always, slept closely together. Be it for comfort or warmth, they rarely slept apart, and if so, they did so badly. Now they needed to get used to not having one another there constantly, and it was hard. Void coped by having Lacuna, which gave her a presence she could work with, whilst Null had just utter exhaustion, and sleeping poorly. Only days it have gone well, were when her dreams had been filled with thoughts of Arcade, for various reasons. Sleeping next to him, would probably provide her the best rest she had in days though.

As for how? Well... She'd prefer chest to chest, as it had a nice, familiar feel to it, and made her feel cared about, as well as giving her a sense of protecting whomever she embraced. But she'd adjust to what he'd find most comfortable. Might take a few attempts before they found out the right one though.

And by the gods, did she hope her dad wasn't gonna be the one to wake them up tomorrow. Especially with a camera, or whatever variety of that contraption, Troy had readily available. She'd never hear the end of it.

As for Void, she'd be headed home at first, but decided she'd instead go to see if things looked okay, at the home where the foals were. Just a small peek, to make sure nothing was wrong, then get some rest herself.

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

 

(Molotov)

Stone didn't cause anything to happen, so Molotov would cautiously, slowly move forward. He knew there were electricity here. He could actively feel it, but how it were applied...

He'd almost feel his nostrils singe, as he got too close, and the electricity arched out. Made him take a step back in surprise.

"Woah! That were close."

Whilst he stood and pondered this, Felicia would move forward, and slowly push a leg towards where she had seen the field before. Nothing happened though, so she'd go further, and push a leg halfway through, before retracting it rapidly. It didn't seem to react on her, nor the stone, but did Molotov...

Taking a decision, she'd just simply walk through, with Molotov nearly screaming at her to get back. Yet she were fine, and just stood on the other side, looking back on him.

"𝕋𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕚𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕤, 𝕚𝕥 𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕤 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕤𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕝𝕚𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕚𝕤𝕤𝕦𝕖."

"Well that's grand for you, but sounds like I'm still getting the short end of that stick."

He had to figure out how to get through. Hmm.. Maybe if he had it go a few more times, he'd get it...

As a proper tinkeret, he'd go at this with testing in mind. Getting close, and now not jumping back when it activated, he'd eventually notice that there were a few seconds of charging time, between the blasts. It weren't much, but if he dashed like there were some sort monster on his heel - which there might be - he should be able to get through.

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Opening the door to the next room would reveal a four way hallway, with doors to the East, South, and West, as they were approaching from the North.

Standing in the middle of the crossroads was a golem like the on6e Colonel had taken control of earlier, only this one was covered in strange blood runes, it's hands were replaced with long spikes, and it was staring directly at them. It stood perfectly still, as if held there.

Awh nuts. Finally managed to get through that other gate, and now this were waiting for them. Just couldn't catch a break here, could they?

So now they had to deal with what he'd assume were some kind of guard statue. The sort who's murder intruders on sight, rather than just keep 'em out, and his weapon weren't gonna be useful against this thing. Looked far too robust to care about some goo.

"ℝ𝕖𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕤𝕔𝕖𝕟𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕠𝕟𝕖, 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕝 𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕜𝕖𝕕, 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕞𝕠𝕕𝕚𝕗𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤. ℂ𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕒𝕕𝕧𝕚𝕤𝕖𝕕."

"Yeah... I'm drawing a blank on this, for now. maybe we should observe, and see if there's some sorta weakness. From a safe distance, that is. I don't wanna be impaled on a spike.

...Unnerving, how it seems to be looking right at us."

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

 

(Yannit)

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Sandy looked down, "Sorry again, but... you did say I'd get your room and stuff if you died." Nonetheless, she was quick about moving Peace's mattress back onto Peace's bed, it did seem to be the better of the two mattresses in the room.

There was a twinge of guilt and sorrow from Sandy when Yannit decided to leave, "Oh, okay, I'll... I'll just put your stuff back in the mean time."

"Right. It's just... *sigh* I'm sorry, still a little... Y'know. I'm trying to keep it together, but I just really need some stability again."

Maybe at some point, when she were certain that this mare were clear of suspicion, Yannit would look back on this moment, and feel sorry for Sandy. Yet at this point, she still didn't know who were playing the biggest performance here. And while yes, whomever were boiling out there, were likely a strong candidate too, fact remained that there may well be more than one conspirator, in all of this. None were beyond suspicion. Including the zebra, though for the time being, she'd have to at least pretend to trust her.

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The motel turned embassy was well designed, for a labyrinth, there weren't many sightlines that extended more than a few lengths in any direction, so no matter which way she might have looked, whoever had passed had already rounded a corner by the time she came out to look, and going further than that the trail grew too muddled to keep searching. Still, what she did know, was that someone present in the embassy was not happy to see her in the slightest.

Awh, bugger. Why couldn't this place just be a simple house, instead of a hive with four walls? Too many side paths here, to get a good read on where whomever she were chasing, had gone to. She didn't get many steps in fact, before she had to just accept this, and hope that whomever were angry at her presence, were still so, when she ran into them. Annoying how she missed a perfectly good chance for a suspect here, but she supposed that nothing could be so easy, when it cam to The Grey.

She'd find out in the long run, though not Too long. She did not intend to do this, for the rest of her life. She'd pay off her debt, and then she'd be on her way, to do other things. Likely return to high society. This sort of life wasn't something she'd strive to maintain, and she didn't need it, like the other two did. Mongoose, to keep her from causing a sadistic murder spree, and Cravin... A good kid, but she could practically taste the guilt that oozed from him. She felt like he wouldn't just want to pay off his own debt, but would find this life suitable to him. If not in comfort, then at least in purpose.

As for herself, she'd halt, and then turn around, to return to Sandy. Hadn't been long since she left, but she'd walk in regardless, and help with whatever she were moving at the time.

"I think it can wait a little more. Let me help, please?"

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

 

(Bling)

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The mare looked somewhat somewhat surprised when Bling offered to buy one, "You serious? Alright then, Go ahead and pick one, they're all the same." It was a little bit more than Bling might have guessed, but it was well within her price range, and far from the most expensive thing at the market today. The mare would accept any form of currency, Debt preferred, "Thank you, I'm pretty sure you're the first one who's bought one, beside me." She looked the slightest bit hopeful, "If you do find a moth that will wear it, could you come back? I'm sure Downbee would appreciate the company."

Bling would pay with debt, if that is what the mare would prefer. Normally, she wouldn't have the sort of currency to just use on something like that, but she had been encouraged by quite a few of the other changelings, to allow herself something nice too, every once in a while, rather than pur everything back into the casino, the hive, or the old theater. Long as it wasn't something massive, none would bat an eye, and would likely be happy that she had some gains too, from all the work she put in. This was likely the most expensive thing she had bought for herself since... Ever, really, since even before the crisis, they had funneled their limited funds, into the hive in some capacity. Turned out that after the crisis, being a penny pincher - no pun intended - were a valuable skill, for someone in her position.

"Oh, I will, you have my word. Surprised I'm the first to try this though. Maybe they just don't know where to find large moths? Like, locally large. You ever heard about Harrowmark? I read a book from there once. Really tattered, but they talked about seriously big moths. We're talking pony sized, before the wings even got counted in. Would've ben hard to miss those, heh.

But I'll be looking around for sure, and seeing what I can do. It'd be nice with some more company, and moths are adorable little critters. They look so elegant, and majestic.

Hopefully once I get something done there, others would start to notice, and start asking. You have my word, that if anyone does, I'll make sure to tell them where I got this from. You two deserve some more attention."

Was only fair really. She certainly wasn't gonna pretend this was all her idea. However this worked, it were all credit to this mare. At least far as Bling knew. She might be a reseller og sorts, but eh. Who knew? She'd just assume the best.

On 2022-03-10 at 7:49 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She nodded, "Yes, it is. Supposedly the Moth Helm made Downbee able to hear and understand normal speech, and also taught him Horse code to communicate back. I've tried to get him to tap anything else, like a tiny telegraph, but he refuses. So, that's something you'll have to look forward to."

"Sounds like a fun thing to learn then.

And speaking of learning, can I ask something, before I go? Say we found a female moth, that Downbee would get along well with, would you consider running a moth farm? I know it's not the best way to put it, I'm sorry Downbee, but I'm not sure what else to call it. Just thinking, a lot of hats, you'd need moths. I got a friend whose crazy about insects, so he could probably help me figure out where to find a female moth, that'd hopefully be intrigued by all of this."

Heh, she were apologizing to a moth. What a strange day this were.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

15 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

If you don't mind, c-could we keep them... Together? I'm still not used to sleeping alone, and I-I think it could be nice with uhm... Cuddling.

Arcade nodded without any indication that he found the request odd. "Sounds good, To be honest I was missing that ever since I left the others. We would all sleep together when we were in the facility, the one you found us in, not the one we grew up in, it made it easy to wake everyone up if something happened." So it seemed he had experience with at least platonic communal sleeping arrangements.

Arcade would hold the blankets up for Null to get in before getting in himself from the opposite side, moving to face his back towards her by custom, seeming to fall asleep almost immediately, though she'd find him easy to rouse if she needed him to.

 

Void wouldn't see anything out of the ordinary at the house, there was a different set of guards outside from when she had left, but given how long it had been it was reasonable to assume that they had simply changed out so that the guards outside were always fresh.

 

Assuming everything went well in the night (We can still RP that if you want, I think there's plenty of room for progressing their relationship there) they would be woken up by a gentle knocking on their door and the voice of Null's mother, "Null? Arcade? Breakfast will be ready soon. Come down whenever you're ready." She would not intrude on their privacy.

 

(Molotov)

The golem would remain frozen in place so long as they looked at it directly, though it seemed to move very slowly so long as it we simply in their peripheral view. As it if couldn't move while consciously observed. (I assume Felicia does not need to blink) It's head turning almost imperceptibly to follow them as they moved about the room. Though if at any point their line of sight were broken it would move suddenly to try and close the distance between them as much as it could before line of sight were reestablished.

(You didn't pick a direction to travel. You came from the north, and Felicia knows you need to go further south to get to where Panic was. You can also go east or west)

 

(Yannit)

Sandy seemed hesitant to let her help, "You sure? I can do it, it's the least I can do... besides, I feel like I owe it to you. Still, maybe this can be a good thing? You were talking about rearranging things a bit before... well, so I guess now's your chance to."

She'd let Yannit rearrange things if she insisted. It looked like Peace's stuff were mostly a few different uniforms, some small trinkets and mementos, and a framed picture of Peace, Sandy, and a number of other ponies in Equestrian Guard attire lined up, likely Peace's squad before the incident. This was probably just what Peace had brought with her on this deployment, and not the sum total of her possessions.

By the time night fell, they would have everything pretty much back where it belonged. Sandy still looked nervous, "Um, you should rest, but you're also probably hungry. Can I get you something from the mess?"

 

(Bling)

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Surprised I'm the first to try this though.

The mare rolled her eyes, "Most ponies just think I'm crazy, and give me a wide berth. Honestly I can't blame them."

16 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Say we found a female moth, that Downbee would get along well with, would you consider running a moth farm?

The mare's eyes widened and she quickly shook her head, "nonono" She shuddered, "Downbee already nearly drives me crazy, I can't imagine what it would be like to have to care for and listen to even two moths, much less a dozen. If you want to farm them, I'd be happy to supply the helms, but no further."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2022-03-14 at 6:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Void wouldn't see anything out of the ordinary at the house, there was a different set of guards outside from when she had left, but given how long it had been it was reasonable to assume that they had simply changed out so that the guards outside were always fresh.

Seeing how the house were still guarded, and they seemed to be calm, it would appear that everything were as it should, with the foals. That was good. You never knew when someone attacked, if they'd go for other targets via others, at the same time. Yet if they had, at least it were not them. Poor things had been through enough, without some crazy, bone-winged griffon, trying to harm them.

As everything seemed in order, she'd head home, to get some proper rest. A day full of things to do in the morrow, she'd imagine.

On 2022-03-14 at 6:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Assuming everything went well in the night (We can still RP that if you want, I think there's plenty of room for progressing their relationship there) they would be woken up by a gentle knocking on their door and the voice of Null's mother, "Null? Arcade? Breakfast will be ready soon. Come down whenever you're ready." She would not intrude on their privacy.

Now, Arcade might wake up, to find things different, from when he had gone to sleep.

Though Null had accepted them sleeping back to back, she were used to being embraced, or feeling more closely to another. At least some degree. During the night as they had slumbered then, she had been reaching her hooves out, searching for someone to grab hold of, and would eventually, slowly move behind her, to feel Arcade. At which point, she would've turned over in her sleep, and slept belly to back with him, Her two right legs, laid over him, to hug him close, as well as could be, without actively forcing her other legs under his sleeping form.

If he had tried moving away as it were happening - if for instance, it woke him up - he could make her stop, by staying out of her reach for a few minutes, where she'd grumble in her sleep, and feebly stretch out, trying to grab hold of him again, before falling completely asleep again. Though she'd seem uncomfortable, judging by the look on her face.

If he had not moved, or had laid back again, he'd wake up to find her still sleeping, embracing him as she were, and with her face nuzzled into his mane. She'd have a big, joyous smile on her face, unaware of what were happening, but clearly having slept pleasantly.

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

 

(Molotov)

As Felicia did not need to blink, constant sight could be kept on it, though it did still seem to move, ever so slightly. She did not know, nor did Molotov, that it would move if not observed. She just automatically looked at it constantly, at high alert, as it were clearly a dangerous creature, and she needed to be able to react instantly, if it for instance, lounged at them.

Whatever the case, none of them were too interested in staying to look at this, until it started to move, so after a few minutes of careful observation, they'd be on their way. Molotov wanted to go east, but Felicia told him they were going south, as it were the best bet she had, on where to go. She were trying to map things as they went along, and she felt somewhat certain, that from the area they were in now, that would be the best move. Though she continued to keep an eye on this thing, until it were out of sight, even if she had to walk backwards. Not a big issue, as walking backwards or forwards for her, were not limited to some sort of inferior muscle memory, or balance issues. She could walk either way. It would just limit her sight whilst moving in a direction, hence why she tended to mostly just move forward.

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

 

(Yannit)

On 2022-03-14 at 6:28 AM, Illiad Easle said:

By the time night fell, they would have everything pretty much back where it belonged. Sandy still looked nervous, "Um, you should rest, but you're also probably hungry. Can I get you something from the mess?"

Things likely did not stand, as they once had. Yannit had decided to place it in a way, that would make things face more towards her bed, and being within range. It made moire sense to her, after the ordeal, that these possessions of Peace's, would be wanted close by, as a matter of comfort. She had been through a traumatic experience after all. A soldier kept her chin up, but no one went through this sort of thing, without being affected. She felt bad for the mare, yet her primary concern currently, would be to incorporate it into her charade.

"Actually, I'd like to join you. Haven't them all lot since I came back. Might as well get it done, right? Must've been others that's been worried."

Might also be that a certain angry one were there, so it seemed a good place to go, to figure out, right? Couldn't hurt at least, though she dreaded what these ponies might eat. She had heard what passed for food, among guards, and frankly, it sounded barely passable as food, most of the time she heard about it. Might be it were just hyperbole though. She'd see soon enough, though for now, it were off with them, to the mess. A place which tended to be a good communal area, at least in the guards she had heard of. As good a place as any, to gather some more intel, before she had to incorporate the others into the proceedings, come tomorrow.

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

 

(Bling)

"Well, no worries. I think I know just the one to ask about these sorts of things.

We should probably get going, but I wish you luck, and hope you'll get more customers soon. May both of you, have a very nice day."

Bling would smile at them, and unless there were something else, she'd be on her way. Though she'd need to go on a detour. First off, to get something sweet. The closer to honey the better. And then, off to meet just the changeling to help her with moths.

Critter would be good, if it were just a matter of finding a moth, but he wouldn't be interested in running a moth farm. However, there were one, who were technically already doing that. Slumming it in a wreck of a place, build more like a twisted tree, of wire and broken wood, loosely in the shape of a tree. That were the home of Yarney, which were the only name he'd respond to, at this point. He used to have the name of Shimmerwing, but well... He had been a little on edge before the troubles, when he came to the old Las Pegasus. After it were invaded, he went deep hiding, and honestly, she had no idea what he had done to stay out of things. She had just run into him again after the town had been retaken, and started to get back on its legs, having gone through some sort of mental breakdown.

He refused to go to the shelter, for any reason. He stayed 0only in this makeshift creation of his, where he harbored moths. He would himself also carry the shape of a large one himself, most of the time, and refer to himself as their king, or queen. He never seemed to settle on either for too long, and his behavior were erratic at the best of times, so most did theirs to stay away from him. Even further so, since he sometimes roused the moths to flutter out towards any would be intruders, whilst he buzzed loudly. One time, she could've sworn she heard the tune to a certain valkyrie musical, but she were too busy to step back to really notice.

You could swat the moths if you would, but then he tended to go into full changeling form, and launch at you, whilst screaming about leaving his children alone.

Honestly, she wasn't sure what had happened to him. If the invasion had made him crack entirely, or he had been tortured perhaps. She just knew he were erratic, semi-dangerous, for anyone who weren't used to fighting, and 85% of the time, didn't like guests, unless they brought something he liked. Hence, the honey, or close equivalent. He tended to accept that as an offering, along with emotional jelly. Though she had to be clear to instruct those, who delivered food around town to other changelings, that they had to leave it around two meters away from the *tree*.

About a half hour later, she'd show up to the old theater, and enter the room. Bruce and her would change into their true forms as they entered, and Bling would stand and look over things. Then spit out a few pieces of cardboard, and shake herself free, from dust and rust remnant. It had been... Something, but she felt fairly sure that she were better off asking around now, rather than go to him as a first pick. He had seemed particularly fanatic, and she frankly didn't want to bring that upon the griffon. Maybe if she could find someone to work as a middle link... She were pretty sure there'd have to be someone who could, if not get through to him, then at least make him listen through a presence, that'd radiate authority.

Probably shouldn't be Rasputin though. He'd probably lose his patience rather fast, and the king had already done a lot for them. She didn't want to toss this on him too.

"Well then, that was an experience. Really want to try and push this along, but I should probably find another bug enthusiast. Yarney seems like he needs some alone time.

Anyway, home sweet home. Let's see how they're doing."

And with that, she'd wander into the theater, looking forward to speaking with friends and family alike.

Edited March 16, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Sisters)

Arcade was naturally a very light sleeper, months being trapped in that facility of horrors had taught him that. After the first time... he doubted he'd ever sleep deeply again.

Still, that meant he was instantly roused when Null moved to touch him. He didn't try to dissuade her in any way, inwardly appreciating that she trusted him enough to protect her while she slept, turning over the duties of watching to him. He was happy to bear it for her, and pushed back just a little so she could get a proper grip on him easier.

He was also woken by he mother's call, so he rose from the bed and checked the room carefully for any sign of intrusion or potential dangers before moving to rouse Null with a nuzzle to her neck and a whisper in her ear, "Hey, it's time to get up."

 

(Molotov)

Heading through the door to the south they'd find themselves on a catwalk over several pipes, one of which had cracked and was spewing an irritating smoke into the room, which would make it very hard for Molotov to keep his eyes open if he didn't have some sort of protection against irritants. But the gas was not otherwise harmful in any way.

There was another door on the opposite end of the catwalk, heading further south.

There would be a thump against the door as it closed behind them, severing eye contact with the golem. If they opened it again they'd find that it was now standing right in front of the door.

Panic spoke again over the intercom, "That's a sizeable risk you're taking. Could just as easily kill you."

 

(Yannit)

The motel had a sizeable kitchen considering most of the rooms had their own small kitchens, most likely to offer overpriced room service, but it did not have a dining room in the traditional sense. However, the motel had had a pool and surrounding deck, which the embassy had repurposed into the mess hall with several tents to shade it from the sun and outside onlookers.

Entering the mess there were many ponies surprised and relieved to see her alive and well, a good number calling out to her, asking how she was and how she'd managed to get back. There was a general consensus among the questions that they thought she had been out in the desert somewhere, which was different from the Grey's account that she had been held inside the city.

Still though, there was one pony that was not happy to see her, most likely the same one from before, a pegasus stallion off in the corner of the mess, facing away from her. At least from behind he matched the description of Nimble Force, who she'd been warned about by Peace.

 

(Bling)

There wasn't too much going on in the old theater, though Rasputin was there guiding a number of the more architecturally inclined changelings through some structural renovations to the front area, He'd turn to greet her as she approached, "You look like you had something interesting happen to you, and I hear you'll be meeting with the other heads of the city. Care to fill me in?"

Edited March 18, 2022 by Illiad Easle

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

Null had her times of being an easy sleeper. Came from being paranoid, and not able to trust anyone but herself, and her sister. Yet it appeared that Arcade were bringing the best out in her, and as he managed to finally rouse her, she'd open her eyes, and gaze upon the new day, with fresh energy.

"*yawn* Man, I had the most pleasant dream. I- Bleargh."

She'd take her hoof to her mouth, and pull out a strand of hair, which Arcade might recognize as one of his own.

"Huh, that's weird... Anyway, goodmorning. Hope I didn't kick or anything. Forgot to warn you, that Void says it sometimes happened. Doesn't feel like it though. Haven't felt this rested since New Las Pegasus."

The place where she had dreamt about Arcade. Which she had now too, but it were less uhm... Embarrassing, to share what had happened in this one.

She'd get up, and stretch, whilst mulling over the details of this new dream. Before Arcade had a shot at leaving said room, she'd clear her throat, and with a blush on her cheeks, ask him something. Before they'd exit the room.

"Arcade? About the dream. Have you ever uh... Thought about having foals? I think dad's teasing got to my dreams, and it uhm... It seemed nice."

She'd go increasingly red as she talked about this, and would look awkwardly away for a moment. This were not as straight forward as her groggy brain had made her believe at first.

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

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-03-16 at 4:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Heading through the door to the south they'd find themselves on a catwalk over several pipes, one of which had cracked and was spewing an irritating smoke into the room, which would make it very hard for Molotov to keep his eyes open if he didn't have some sort of protection against irritants. But the gas was not otherwise harmful in any way.

"Awh bugger. I knew I should've brought safety glasses. Felicia? Mind being a pal here?"

If the spiderbot had the ability, she would roll her eyes, before she slung him up on her back, and kept on moving backwards, as she now had an additional reason to keep track of their enemy.

Molotov used to have protection from this sort of thing, in his eyewear. But that were the old one, that sealed one of his eyes in well. This here though, were just a lens. Less off putting, and more mobile. Also less features, and less protection. A tradeoff thus far, but he were working on solutions. Might have to backburner that one for the time being though, due to other obligations.

On 2022-03-16 at 4:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Panic spoke again over the intercom, "That's a sizeable risk you're taking. Could just as easily kill you."

There were no way in tarnation, that the two of them would go through the locked door, to check up on the guardian. Not a chance. Nothing to fear there.

"Urgh, bloody fog... Look, voice lad... Panic or something, yeah? Level with me here for a moment, and see it from our side. Going back, we'd have been stuck where we came from, with an awful lotta bad stuff. We had to get past the bugger no matter what. You're an AI, so you outta know the logistics of actions here, considering we don't have a lotta info to go on.

Not sure why you're all dangerous though. I mean, I get it from the point of this place. Been trapped, outta suck. But what about the rest? Most folks ain't ever done you anything. Why's it sounding like you wanna wipe us all out anyway? Or well, your main. I'm gonna assume you're a copy of him, or he sired you. Either or."

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

 

(Yannit)

Yannit would vague answer things. Standard about not knowing who got her out, and that she'd been through some stuff she didn't want to talk about. It was good to be back, and seeing folks. Even those Peace might not normally like, as this seemed the sort of experience, where even a grim face, were at least a familiar one, that didn't belong to one of her captors.

Peculiar that they figured she were in the desert though. maybe she should find out, who had given them that information. She'd ask a few, as they brought it up at least, and looked at 'em as confused as she should be looking, in her opinion. No wonder none had found Peace, before The Grey, if they were looking to the desert, instead of inside the city. Might be a mistake. Might be a misdirect. It was something worth checking up on, at least.

On 2022-03-16 at 4:37 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Still though, there was one pony that was not happy to see her, most likely the same one from before, a pegasus stallion off in the corner of the mess, facing away from her. At least from behind he matched the description of Nimble Force, who she'd been warned about by Peace.

Aah, fortune smiled upon her. It appeared she might have found the one from earlier. Though she couldn't be completely certain. It had been regrettably fleeting, but this one were angry at least. She could feel it. Potentially Nimble Force, whom were one she had been warned of. Hmm... Oh well, let see what happened, if she approached.

"Nimble."

She'd nod, after simply stating his name. It did not sound like, he were one she were supposed to be highly friendly towards. Something about him being brash, which Peace apparently, did not appreciate. His eagerness to go here, were also rather suspicious, if truth be told. Who'd want to willingly come here, right when a gang war were happening? In her opinion: Someone with something to gain, or one who liked to tout their power over others.

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

 

(Bling)

"Hey Rasputin. Sure, sure. Had a belter in fact, and a bit weird too, I guess. Let's take it from the top."

She'd fill him in on things as they had gone. Brushing through the casino, saying how it went well, and folks performed great, then on to the news of the meeting. The Grey, and of course, the moth hat. Which would be her finisher, had she not also the meeting with Yarney to speak about. Which had gone about as well as expected, with him hearing some of what she said, then suddenly getting a weird flip, that resulted in him sending a flock of moths to harass her, until she went further away. He kept the honey though, and hadn't yelled at her to shove her suggestion somewhere, so that were good.

"-and got a *leaf* stuck in my teeth. I don't want to speak ill of others, but Yarney is... Something snapped for him, and I don't think he's all there all the time, at this point. But I am not sure who else might fit for a moth farm. Which I know, I know, isn't important, but it's nice with side projects, y'know? And moths are cute, long as they're kept out of the costumes.

Anyway, that's my start of the day. Figure you heard about The Grey though, as I put it out on the vine, so others could volunteer. If they wanted to, of course.

So, how're things here?"

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

She'd take her hoof to her mouth, and pull out a strand of hair, which Arcade might recognize as one of his own.

Given it was blond, it could hardly be mistaken for one of Null's stark white ones, he chuckled at that, "Next time don't snack on my mane while you sleep."

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Huh, that's weird... Anyway, goodmorning. Hope I didn't kick or anything. Forgot to warn you, that Void says it sometimes happened. Doesn't feel like it though. Haven't felt this rested since New Las Pegasus."

He shook his head, "No more than the others did, I'm used to it, helps me keep a better watch."

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Arcade? About the dream. Have you ever uh... Thought about having foals? I think dad's teasing got to my dreams, and it uhm... It seemed nice."

He looked about to respond when he stopped, looking down and away as he sat on the bed. His voice was not embarrassed, but rather sad, "I... I can't say I've even given it much thought. I mean, First of all I'm not all that well versed in all that goes into having foals, I wasn't born in the traditional way so far as I'm aware, nor did they make us with the intent for us to reproduce, so they never bothered to teach us, but anyway. I do know that ponies come together to make more ponies, and that the foals inherit traits from their parents. What... what if they got my curse? Besides that, I have dwarfism and a malformed horn. I'm not nearly as smart nor as accomplished as the original."

It seemed there were some deeper seated issues there that Arcade had never had the chance to unpack before.

 

(Void)

Given Vale was off with Molotov, there wasn't someone with the foals to get them ready in the morning, unless Void went over to fill in the gap for now.

 

(Molotov)

The voice, like in all the instances before, did not respond to Molotov's callout. Though soon after he finished speaking, and when the two of them had cleared the smoke to the other side of the room, the lights flickered for a moment, cutting off another voice and the briefest flash of red lights, "Wa-"

Panic continued, "Unexpected, I didn't think you had a death wish. I'm immune to such concerns at this point."

The next room contained another set of high security doors, this time labeled "Light Containment" Felicia would remember passing through a pair of doors like this one, then heading west. Her previous expedition led her to believe that the containment zones were layered, such that traveling north and south changed the containment level, and east/west remained in the same containment level. At the very least, they had traveled the same n/s distance through Heavy Containment as she had the first time.

The keycard Molotov had recovered from the dead guard would work on the door, letting them into the Light Containment zone without having to pass through the other dimension again. They'd be able to close the door behind them, keeping the moving statue from following them further.

 

(Yannit)

Sandy would stand up for Yannit, getting the others to back off, "Hey, don't overwhelm her alright? She's been through a lot."

When she approached Nimble Force, the pegasus didn't react to her presence until she called his name, the anger spiked inside him, but he maintained his indifferent composure, "Sargent." He responded. He didn't turn to face her, continuing to eat his food.

 

(Bling)

Rasputin looked thoughtful as Bling related the tale of Yarney, "That is certainly an interesting case. I can't say I'm well versed in fixing mental issues like that. Last I tried, well, it didn't end well. Still, so long as they're not a threat, I see no harm in allowing them to live as they like. Still, I was referring more to the visit you got from Potens and Fortis' messenger, they seem to have legitimized your claim as a head of the city. Soon you won't just be in charge of this hive and casino, but also this whole quarter of the city, would you like to take on this responsibility yourself? Or would you like to put someone up in your stead? Personally I'd recommend expanding your ruling council, get a few trusted advisors from the general populous to manage the affairs of the city, and similar to the casino, I'd recommend they not all be changelings. But that's up to you."

"As to things here, I hope you don't mind, but I've taken the liberty of adding some upgrades to the renovations. Wholly invisible of course, it will all still look the same as the plans specified, but it will result in a much better sound quality and more consistent results throughout the theater."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Sisters)

On 2022-03-20 at 5:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Given it was blond, it could hardly be mistaken for one of Null's stark white ones, he chuckled at that, "Next time don't snack on my mane while you sleep."

Null were unaware that she had done that, yet at that point in the conversation, were still waking up, and thus, not mortified, or too embarrassed at things. She wouldn't respond to it though, and sheepishly looked away for a brief moment. Soon as she'd have a chance to think about what this meant, in regards to how they had slept, since she couldn't gnaw on his mane with her back turned, it might cause more of a reaction.

On 2022-03-20 at 5:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He shook his head, "No more than the others did, I'm used to it, helps me keep a better watch."

She hadn't kicked him during this night, but she had clutched him a few times, a bit tighter, whilst giving out a satisfied, drawn out sigh. Her dreams had apparently been quite pleasant, and calming. No wonder she had enjoyed her rest so.

Another time though, it might be less pleasant, and he'd find her kicking him off the bed, before rolling down on top of him. Only reason that didn't work with Void, were that Void were bigger, but Arcade might not fare so well. Depended on if she had nightmares, more than likely.

On 2022-03-20 at 5:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked about to respond when he stopped, looking down and away as he sat on the bed. His voice was not embarrassed, but rather sad, "I... I can't say I've even given it much thought. I mean, First of all I'm not all that well versed in all that goes into having foals, I wasn't born in the traditional way so far as I'm aware, nor did they make us with the intent for us to reproduce, so they never bothered to teach us, but anyway. I do know that ponies come together to make more ponies, and that the foals inherit traits from their parents. What... what if they got my curse? Besides that, I have dwarfism and a malformed horn. I'm not nearly as smart nor as accomplished as the original."

It seemed there were some deeper seated issues there that Arcade had never had the chance to unpack before.

Null would lean in, and grabbed hold of Arcade. Both sides of his face, and had him look straight at her, if he tried to look away. Otherwise, she'd have her hooves on his shoulders, and just look intently on him.

"I don't want him. I want you, Arcade. Not some other pony they kept comparing you to, and kept making you think you were lesser than. He didn't stand with me through everything that's happened. He didn't make me feel like perhaps, just maybe, I can have a future. You did. You're the one I care about, and want to be with.

I know you're not perfect. But neither am I, nor anyone else. I have my own demons to tackle, and a curse I had to live my whole life with. If we had... If we had foals, and they inherited either your curse, or something like what I had, we'd both know what it's like to deal with a detriment like that, and we'd be able to help them grow past it.

They'll probably have... Be short, like we are, since we're both affected by that. But it's not the end of the world. We lived through it, and so could they. Just without all our baggage, and with a supportive family to help them. Be it size, curses, or small flaws, we'd be able to weather it. I have to believe that.

And don't fret about your horn. It's not a flaw, it's a more like a beauty mark. It works after all, right? And even if it did, I'd never hold that against you. I know what it feels like, to not be able to function right. That bit in your nature, screaming out that you outta do something, that you can't. I'd never hold something like this against you"

She'd embrace him fully after that, and squeeze him tightly. Seems like he had his own demons to tackle too. A lot likely coming from that facility, making him feel worthles, compared to some pony, they had copied him from... Bastards the lot of them, and if she ever got her hooves on them, they'd come to regret it. She wouldn't forgive them, for what they put Arcade through.

"I don't want some idolized pony, set up on a pedestal. I want you. Please don't forget that."

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

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-03-20 at 5:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Panic continued, "Unexpected, I didn't think you had a death wish. I'm immune to such concerns at this point."

"...I'm not the only one, getting the feeling that wasn't fer us, am I?"

"ℕ𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖. 𝕀𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕣𝕦𝕡𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖, 𝕚𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕤 𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕣𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕪. ℙ𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕕. 𝕎𝕖 𝕞𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕔𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖."

THey both had the same one in mind, for whom this might have been. Could well be nothing, and they were just overthinking it, but it weren't striking either of them, as a coincidence. Nor did *Panic's* word strike at 'em, as something that really answered anything. If it were to them, it were little more than a power trip, kind of taunt. And a poor one at that. But if Conegher had tried to break into something, and been repelled... They had to move on.

Thankfully at this point, Felicia had started to get a better bearing of where they were. Hor fortuitous that she were not a fleshling, with an inferior memory, but could record every detail required, and store it in specific folders, or sub folders, in her database. Which helped in especially stressed situations, where one like Molotov, might end up distracted, or unfocused, in some other fashion.

On 2022-03-20 at 5:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The keycard Molotov had recovered from the dead guard would work on the door, letting them into the Light Containment zone without having to pass through the other dimension again. They'd be able to close the door behind them, keeping the moving statue from following them further.

Felicia would speed them along the track, fast as she reasonably could, following her internal map. It wasn't complete, but she could go with her surroundings, and the data she did have, to make a reasonably educated guess. This would eventually lead them to the door, where Molotov - his eyes now feeling a fair bit better - would try the keycard, before the odd key. Good news is the keycard worked, so they didn't have to go to the weird forest again. It also left them the option to lock the door behind them, and yeah, they were deffo gonna do that. Nothing but bad news that path.

Now with them getting to there, they'd have to keep moving, trying to get to the control room. If they were in familiar territory, Felicia should hopefully be able to lead them the rest of the way. Hopefully before their comrade, got into too much further trouble.

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

 

(Yannit)

"Thank you. I get there's been worry, but... Bit of personal space, please?"

Good that Sandy were there, to help regulate things. Peace seemed the sort, who'd be able to deal to a certain extend, but the trauma would realistically, make it so that she'd need at least a bit of space. How lovely to get a bit of assistance in this, though it didn't mean that she trusted Sandy fully. Still plenty of reasons that she could be complicit.

Not as much as Nimble though. Ohohoho, here were an interesting one. His anger didn't lessen when he thought Peace came closer. It increased, and he refused to even look at her. There were something going on here, Something which did not seem to include guilt, or fear. So if he were the one who sold her out, he didn't feel bad about it in the slightest, and he didn't think he were caught. He were just angry she were back. She'd need to inquire a bit more here, and check in with the real Peace, eventually.

As they moved along, she'd look towards Sandy, and say something. See if perhaps she could get a little out of her, about what his deal were.

"I see he's as cheerful as always."

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

 

(Bling)

"Oh, I don't think he needs fixing either. His whole moth swarms are harmless, if at worst a tiny bit annoying. I figured it were worth talking to him, but I'll spread the word, see if there's others who might fit what I'm looking for. Changeling or not. It probably won't be a big financial thing boost, but after making sure to pay for everything at the casino, get a fair chunk out here, and paying off all the debts, whilst making sure the coffers gets some savings, there's still a bit left for personal stuff. And since others keep insisting I use at least a bit on myself, I don't see the harm in trying this at least. Low risk, low reward, sort of thing. Maybe. I dunno, depends if moths becomes popular pets, but I think they're more of an acquired taste.

Anyway, as for the part of town thing, I'm gonna be needing to put some others in, to deal with that aspect, much as possible. I already have a lot to do at the casino sometimes, and I'd like to be able to help out around here more often again, as well as go out, and mingle with others. Maybe put up a performance in the casino's theater too. That'd be nice.

Besides, if I get chosen for the transformation process, I'm gonna be out for some time. I'd have to let others handle this, sooner or later. Gonna need to find some good candidates for this though. And like you said, not all changelings. It's good with various opinions, which you get best by having various species. Really puts some things into perspective, so we're not just thinking about changeling issues. Helps making sure we're being accommodating at the casino too. The sort of things you learn sometimes. Bit crazy, but very educational.

Still looking around, and weighing some options. With this added, I'll have to take that into consideration too, so that's something. To think it's come to this though... Cheshire would've never believed it, even if she'd been here to see it. Just gonna have to roll with it though, right? Chin up, and do my best. Just like you do. And I mean it. You're making this place shine up a bit, and that's great. I had hoped to get to it soon, but things just kept piling up, so really happy you've taken the initiative.

This place means a lot to us. Not just Hive Cheshire. It's been a gathering place, and a shelter, for a lot of changelings since the town got retaken. And for me and my siblings, it is also a symbol of hope. Seeing it collapse, would be devastating.

Is there anything specific you'd need for things here? Anything at all? And there haven't been any sort of trouble, right? Like, I'm hoping no one would attack the theater, but I just can't be sure, that with everything going on, some might not give it a try, for some reason."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

Now that would put the embarrassment on his face. He didn't resist Null turning his face towards her, but he did not try to meet her gaze as he listened to her confession of love.

When she embraced him he was quick to return it, nuzzling into her neck and whispering into her ear, "I... I want you too."

 

He held her there a moment longer before adding, "Your mother has been standing in the doorway for some time now."

Seeing that she'd been addressed, she spoke up, "I was going to see what was keeping you, but I didn't want to intrude on your tender moment. You two come down whenever you're ready, I'll keep it warm for you. Don't take too long though, or your father will get curious."

 

(Molotov)

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"ℕ𝕖𝕘𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖. 𝕀𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕣𝕦𝕡𝕥 𝕓𝕖𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕖, 𝕚𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕤 𝕒 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕣𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕪. ℙ𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕕. 𝕎𝕖 𝕞𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕔𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖."

(I wondered when you'd take notice.)

Having realized that the message over the PA system hadn't necessarily been directed at them, it might be worth considering how many of the others might also not have referred to them, if any. Had Panic been speaking to them at any point? Did he even know they were there?

The next room to the south was a T room with exits to the East and West, Felicia knew the control room was to the West. Heading west they'd find another T room with exits to the West and South, but standing in the center of the room was the same decrepit automaton that had caused Felicia trouble earlier, it was still oozing corrosive goo, though it somehow looked to be in a better state of repair than before. As soon as they opened the door it started to walk towards them, "Ret- Ret- Ret- urn- urn- Ker-" It seemed the voice box was still down for the count.

 

(Yannit)

There was a strong spike of guilt from Sandy when Yannit asked her about Nimble, she even looked away and rubbed the back of her neck, "Y-yeah, maybe he's just mad he wasn't the one to find you? He was pretty involved in the search efforts." It was obvious that there was more to this that Sandy wasn't telling her.

What Yannit might find more interesting though was the stallion watching her, sitting next to Nimble. She couldn't get a read on his emotions, as no energy seemed to be coming off of him, just like a changeling, or a sociopath, or maybe it was just hidden by the anger coming off of Nimble.

 

(Bling)

Rasputin nodded at Bling's plans for the future, though smiled slightly when she offered the idea that she might not be chosen to become the queen, "Oh it's too late for that, you've already assumed so much of the responsibilities, commanded quite a bit of respect, both among the changelings and the populous. You're a queen in all but body. Keep it up and you'll rival your great aunts Permu and Sleipnir for popularity."

Per her question as to whether he needed anything, he nodded, "Just your thoughts on how we ought to excavate the hive proper. If we're going to finish these renovations, we'll need to relocate the changelings living here, and I can think of no better place than to relocate them to their permanent home. I've got the excavators trained and ready to go, we've even selected a number of strong entrance points in the clay under the theater and the casino. The question that remains is how you want it to look? Do you want a more natural look? Circular passageways that twist and wind, dug where convenient and added to as necessary, or do you want to impose a structure early? Lay out plans and designs to keep the passageways uniform and organized?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2022-03-22 at 6:54 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He held her there a moment longer before adding, "Your mother has been standing in the doorway for some time now."

Seeing that she'd been addressed, she spoke up, "I was going to see what was keeping you, but I didn't want to intrude on your tender moment. You two come down whenever you're ready, I'll keep it warm for you. Don't take too long though, or your father will get curious."

"Wha- Mom?!"

Null looked utterly mortified, over at her mother, completely oblivious to her presence. Now she had been made aware though, she'd dive i9n under the blankets, and hold it tightly in place over her, to cover herself from sight.

"J-Just... Just go, and let me self-immolate from embarrassment."

This had gone from being a tender moment for her, to being utterly, tomato-headed levels of awkward, and if she could, she would've crawled into a small hole, and just withered away. However, such methods were not in her repertoire, so instead, she'd cover herself up, until she managed to get herself under control again. Gods, this day were all over the place already, and it had barely started.

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

 

(Void)

(Forgot her. Whoops)

Void would've loved to join her famaily at breakfast, but especially now, with her being the sole one there for the foals, she had to go there, and ensure things went smoothly. Had to keep them fed, educated, and etnertained. That were her primary duty right now, and she'd make sure to see to it.

SO with food ready for transport, she'd make her way over. A little later than she tended to be there, but hopefully that'd be fine, and they were still sleeping. If not, well, she'd just have to apologize for the delay, and hope they were doing okay.

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

 

(Molotov)

"What the fudge is that?"

"𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕞𝕪 𝕝𝕖𝕘. 𝕋𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕝: ℍ𝕚𝕘𝕙. 𝔻𝕠 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟 𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕚𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕕𝕚𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕔𝕖."

"You don't have to tell me twice. Let's see though, if we can't stall it a bit, so we can get on. We're needed elsewhere, and urgently at this point, I'd wager."

Time to put his weapon to the test again then. Rising it up, he'd take some good aim at whatever prototype monstrosity this were, and fired it up. They'd see if some adhesive goo, shot with some force to it, wouldn't at least get it briefly out of their way. It probably wouldn't, and they'd need to have Felicia distract it instead, but it was worth a shot.

Hah! A shoot. He had to tell Vale about this, when they ran into her again.

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

 

(Yannit)

A lot to read here, yet none of it gave her any answers, just more questions. Why were Sandy feeling so much guilt about this, and yammer out something, that sounded like an utter lie? If Nimble had truly wanted to find her so badly, then why were he angry that she had returned? Because he hadn't been able to play hero? And then, why the guilt? It didn't fit properly into this... There were something here she didn't know about, and sadly, she couldn't just ask into it, as her only proof were emotions. And Peace couldn't read those. She wasn't a changeling, or an empath. Her disguise would fail instantly, and her mission be null and void.

And then... There were Him.

She didn't know exactly what his deal were. He did not fit the description of any of the ones, she had been told to look out for, thought it certainly felt like he were one that she needed to know about, the sooner, the better. The way he were following her with his eyes were one thing, but he were so... Void, of anything emotionally, that it almost made her exoskeleton shiver. Only ones who had no emotions, were skilled changelings, or sociopaths. Even the extremely zen ones, had emotions, of peace and tranquility. Gods she missed feeling that again. It had been so long...

Back to the creature at hoof, maybe it wasn't so bad. Maybe he were just not feeling much, and were shielded by the anger. But she doubted it. That didn't seem right, and neither did he. She had to know more.

"You say that, but he doesn't seem like he wants to talk. His table buddy, at least looks at me... Though I can't say I remember him. My head's still a little frazzled. Can you help, Sandy? "

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

 

(Bling)

On 2022-03-22 at 6:54 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Rasputin nodded at Bling's plans for the future, though smiled slightly when she offered the idea that she might not be chosen to become the queen, "Oh it's too late for that, you've already assumed so much of the responsibilities, commanded quite a bit of respect, both among the changelings and the populous. You're a queen in all but body. Keep it up and you'll rival your great aunts Permu and Sleipnir for popularity."

"Oooh, you flatter me. Maybe I'll be a good queen, but I doubt I'll reach the height of Permu, if even half the things I've heard about her, is true. Which is fine by me too. I'm not trying to change the world or anything. I just wanna do what's best for our beaten, and battered kind. Seeing a queen - any queen - in New Las Pegasus, should help them get hope."

She didn't aspire to much really. She wanted to keep her hive prosperous, but not to hoard wealth and power. More so that when others came, and needed help, they'd be more than able to provide it. Cheshire had always taught them, that the best thing they could do in life, were to help those of their kin, that were in an even worse situation than them. Bling had always taken that greatly to heart, and wished to continue this legacy, as it felt right to her.

It'd probably end up with her own hive, eventually being made out of various changelings, not originally of her own brood. Welcoming to the discarded, and hiveless alike. Cheshire had done something alike, with them helping others, though their hive, were just them. With the casino, and a better, more solid foundation for a hive though, things could well be changing now, and become more expansive. The future of their kin in this area, were going to be a special one to witness.

On 2022-03-22 at 6:54 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Per her question as to whether he needed anything, he nodded, "Just your thoughts on how we ought to excavate the hive proper. If we're going to finish these renovations, we'll need to relocate the changelings living here, and I can think of no better place than to relocate them to their permanent home. I've got the excavators trained and ready to go, we've even selected a number of strong entrance points in the clay under the theater and the casino. The question that remains is how you want it to look? Do you want a more natural look? Circular passageways that twist and wind, dug where convenient and added to as necessary, or do you want to impose a structure early? Lay out plans and designs to keep the passageways uniform and organized?"

"Ooof, that's gonna be a tough one... We got a fair few here who miss the old ways of home. The tunnels, sections for them each, the whole shebang. But it's been a long time, and at this point, regular homes are a welcoming sight for others, instead of the more uniform caves we're used to.

...My personal judgement I think, would be to have it made as a natural hive. They're still allowed their own sections in the hive of course, since I don't think we should be taking away individuality, like some hives I knew of did. We're changelings. Not things to just store on a shelf.

Then those who have come to prefer living in a house, or a room of some sort, above ground, can of course keep their own accommodations. It's not like we're gonna force them to go down there. That'd be crazy talk.

Still... A bit of structure to things, would likely be better than just randomly going about. Some proper, designated areas, and paths to go there. Maybe we should write a general idea? Would make it easier to for example, have a good area for the hatchlings, with easily accessible paths, that could be guarded well. And with an emergency exit. No one wants to think of a case, where others would toss poison gas down there, or flood it, and there were naught to be done... Horrible, horrible tragedy to have come to pass."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

Arcade simply watched Null's embarrassment with a raised eyebrow, "Should I be embarrassed? I didn't think we were doing anything wrong... were we?" He'd nuzzle her through the blanket, as more of a gentle 'come on' gesture, "I may just go down to breakfast without you, you coming or not?"

 

Down the stairs they'd find Null's mother bringing some food to the table from the kitchen, a standard Trojan breakfast of oatmeal and honey, the oatmeal was kept warm to help take the edge off the chilly desert morning. Her father looked tired, which made sense given how late they had all stayed up, he looked up from the paper he was half reading as they came down the stairs, "You two sleep alright? Enough blankets up there?"

 

(Void)

While the others were asleep, Peal had escaped her crib at some point in the morning, and was sitting by the door when Void opened it, and would try to go through it when it opened until she recognized Void there, clapping her hooves together before jumping up onto her back and hugging her neck, "Hug!" she'd then turn her attention to whatever Void had brought with her.

 

The others would be easy enough to rouse, either directly or though the smell of food. They were happy to see Void, but were confused at the lack of Vale, Ardee asking, "Where's Miss Vale? She's usually here before you."

 

(Molotov)

The goo that seeped out of the automaton made short work of the adhesive that Molotov shot it with, though the force of the strike had been enough to stagger it a bit. Still, it was coming towards them, leaving a corrosive trail behind it. They'd have to find an alternate route. Given Felicia's experience with the facility, she knew that there were a few hallways that entered the hallway they needed to be in further South and West, so it stood to reason that if they could get further South, they could get around this automaton by heading West.

 

If they went back East, past where they had entered light containment, they'd find a corner with an elevator, the corner turned South, and the elevator could apparently only go down from here.

 

(Yannit)

Sandy looked to see who she was referring to, and a number of conflicting emotions went through her before she pointedly looked away, "He's... not important. One of the new recruits from the locals I think? I can't say I've interacted with him much." There was a small amount of anger, but also fear? A bit of worry, guilt, and regret mixed in for good measure. Still, Sandy would do her best to lead Yannit over to get some food and sit where the pair would be out of sight.

 

(Bling)

19 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Oooh, you flatter me. Maybe I'll be a good queen, but I doubt I'll reach the height of Permu, if even half the things I've heard about her, is true. Which is fine by me too. I'm not trying to change the world or anything. I just wanna do what's best for our beaten, and battered kind. Seeing a queen - any queen - in New Las Pegasus, should help them get hope."

Rasputin smiled kindly, "She does have a thousand year head start on you, but I'm sure, given time, you'll be able to accomplish many great things if you set your mind to it. You'll be one of the first changelings to ever choose to be a Queen, that already says quite a bit about you."

He nodded at her input on the design of the hive, "A sort of fusion of the styles of the hives of those who are here then? With a centralized structure for what's most important. Yes, I think that will work out nicely, it gives each group of changelings the freedom to make this hive theirs, while also unifying them in a new whole. I'll have someone bring the design to you once it's been drawn up for your final approval of course."

"Which brings me to my next matter. You haven't seemed to need my help directly as of late, and I've passed off enough of my knowledge that I could get away for a while, do you want me to go and see if Queen Oracle would be willing to come down sooner, rather than later? It will take me some time to make the trip up to the Blackwater Bastion."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade simply watched Null's embarrassment with a raised eyebrow, "Should I be embarrassed? I didn't think we were doing anything wrong... were we?" He'd nuzzle her through the blanket, as more of a gentle 'come on' gesture, "I may just go down to breakfast without you, you coming or not?"

Null seemed reluctant at first, but eventually, she'd slowly pull the blanket off of her, and silently get up from the bed. Her head were still red like a tomato, but she'd follow along, as it very slowly, would start to tone down again.

"I... N-No, we didn't..."

Null still wasn't used to have her tender side shown to others. Or even being used to having one in the first place. She'd spend the better part of five years, to bury it underneath layers of hate, and self-loathing. Having it revealed, made her feel like others got too close. It were fine when it were Void, or Arcade, but revealing it like this, in front of her mother... It just shook her out of her zen, so to speak.

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Down the stairs they'd find Null's mother bringing some food to the table from the kitchen, a standard Trojan breakfast of oatmeal and honey, the oatmeal was kept warm to help take the edge off the chilly desert morning. Her father looked tired, which made sense given how late they had all stayed up, he looked up from the paper he was half reading as they came down the stairs, "You two sleep alright? Enough blankets up there?"

"We slept fine, with the blankets. Nothing happened."

Null would sheepishly go over to the table, and sit down. She weren't able to look her father in the eyes right now, though she did bite notice in how he seemed tired. Little wonder really. It had been a late night, and their pregnant mother, likely drained him of energy in general.

"Did you sleep well?"

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

 

(Void)

Seeing the little munchkin this close to the door, made her heart skip for a moment. Especially as it looked like, she were trying to scurry outside. Void wou9ld ho down to shield the little one from getting too far, but thankfully, she wouldn't try to do anything, and would just crawl up on her back instead. Made it feel like a stone were lifted from her heart there, and she'd use her back leg to cose to door with.

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

"Hug!" she'd then turn her attention to whatever Void had brought with her.

Void would reach up, and ruffle the mane of the adorable little climber. Gave her a little hug too, best she could, considering the position.

"And a goodmorning hug to you, Peal. Curious what we're having this morning, huh? No worries, there's something sweet in there."

It was kind of a makeshift cereal today, served in cactus water. Included a fair bit of fruits and nuts, with some variation in how one wanted to put it together. And thinking on everyone now, she had also brought along some dried crickets, that she had found whilst picking up a few other things, when she were preparing things yesterday. It wasn't that varied, but hopefully it'd help some, and they could figure out some more, as they kept on.

17 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The others would be easy enough to rouse, either directly or though the smell of food. They were happy to see Void, but were confused at the lack of Vale, Ardee asking, "Where's Miss Vale? She's usually here before you."

After waking the other foals up, she supposed it were but a matter of time, before that question came up. Well, she might as well answer it, yes? The sooner the better. Though she'd leave out some of the more... Unkind details, as far as she knew them. She didn't knew exactly what were happening, but hopefully, things had not gone bloody.

"Goodmorning everyone. I know Vale is here earlier than me normally, but she's gone to help a friend for a little bit. Don't worry, she'll be back. At worst,. it shouldn't be more than a few days. I'll try and do my best to pick up on the lessons while she's away, but I hope you'll bear with me on that, a little.

But first, I think we should have some breakfast. Wash your hooves, and I'll set up the bowls for you. I also brought something I hope will be good for you, Elef. Please tell me if it isn't, okay?"

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

 

(Molotov)

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The goo that seeped out of the automaton made short work of the adhesive that Molotov shot it with, though the force of the strike had been enough to stagger it a bit. Still, it was coming towards them, leaving a corrosive trail behind it. They'd have to find an alternate route. Given Felicia's experience with the facility, she knew that there were a few hallways that entered the hallway they needed to be in further South and West, so it stood to reason that if they could get further South, they could get around this automaton by heading West.

Well that didn't do jack all. A bit of a stagger, weren't enough, to be considered a proper response in his eyes. Especially not, since it were still going towards them, and he could see in its trail, that Felicia hadn't exaggerated, when it came to this. And if that stuff could handle one of her enhanced legs, his flesh wouldn't stand a chance. Neither would Carmen, which frankly just made him happier, that she had stayed topside, to wait for them. This place were far too dangerous, for his little angel.

"Phooey. Alright, we ain't going that way. Felicia? Have another idea?"

"...𝔸𝕝𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕥𝕖 𝕞𝕒𝕡𝕡𝕖𝕕. 𝔽𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨."

It wasn't assured, as she again, didn't have this place fully mapped, but taking some logical steps, she could see one path they could take, that should hopefully get them around this thing, and thereby avoid direct contact with whatever this thing were.

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

If they went back East, past where they had entered light containment, they'd find a corner with an elevator, the corner turned South, and the elevator could apparently only go down from here.

Molotov wondered if perhaps, they were gonna use the elevator to go through, but didn't seem like that were the route Felicia wanted, as they would continue south. As for him? Well, they had a fairly long walk, so he were using his magic while they moved, to tinker on the parts he had found, to try and do a quick fix. Seemed fairly easy really, and he always kept a toolbelt on him. Lest this required some kind of tool he had never seen, he should be able to patch it together, and hopefully, make some usage out of it. Wasn't hard to run and tinker at the same time, long as they didn't get attacked. He'd have to float the whole mess into his saddlebag then, if it came to that.

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

 

(Yannit)

Not important, huh? And that was why Sandy dragged on so much, when talking about him? Why he sat with a sergeant, and kept a close eye on Peace? One who's mere mention, made Sandy's emotions put up red flags? No one important, and yet he seemed to cause such an emotional stir, and be where only those of import tended to be.

What a load of horse radish. Whoever this were, were a key to things, and she'd find out who he were, no matter who she had to wring for it. Though she'd probably need her idio- Goons, she meant, for the task. It seemed less like the work of a single being at this point, and more an effort from many, working towards Peace's demise. Though why exactly, she needed to find out too. had she wanted to rat on someone? Were she a sacrifice, to prove the corrupt ones, were willing to work with this unknown pony, and whomever he might serve? Questions upon questions, and not an answer to be found. Not beyond this clearly being bigger than she had expected, and would require her to stay more on guard. There were no telling how many were in on this.

"Local recruit, huh? No wonder I don't remember seeing him then."

She'd move along, but mark this one down in her mind. She'd have to talk to Peace, and potentially some of the locals, to see if she could figure out who this were. Perhaps chat with Bling, and the hive too. They had eyes everywhere, and even if they didn't use them as one could, in her opinion, it did mean they saw a lot of things.

Still, right now, the ruse would have to rely on her moving on as a regular pony, so she'd go and get something to eat. Something modest would be her preference, but with how Peace were, she would realistically be somewhat ravenous. So a somewhat modest meal, yet something which should be eaten with less finesse, than she'd prefer.

"Haven't asked yet, but... How's things been here, since they took me?"

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

 

(Bling)

"I'm not gonna push you if you don't want to, but if you wouldn't mind, then I'd appreciate the gesture, of reaching out to Queen Oracle. I hear nothing but good things about her, so her wisdom would be great, in the years to come. To think that might be millennia though... Oh boy, that's gonna be one hay of a ride, huh?"

She were trying not to think of the longevity thing, all that much, since it had some implications, that she didn't like. Mostly in regards to her family, though she knew in her heart, that she'd be okay. They'd still live long, happy lives, and there would be more to care for, and nurture in the future. More family, more friends, and more changelings in need. She'd never end up alone, and though they might pass, she'd always have the memories. In time, there'd be comfort in that.

As for his comments about her being able to do great, she may well do. Yet Bling were never one who had strived for greatness, nor thought herself a savior of any kind. Her mother had raised her, and the others well, in making sure they knew to be thankful for what they had, and never think themselves leaps and bounds better than others. Included exiles, and general hiveless. It had installed them all with a good deal of humility, and that would likely end up serving her better in the years to come, than much else.

It made it hard for her to think of herself as someone grand, but then again, it would also keep her head out of the clouds. And if she wanted to keep on the legacy, that her mother left behind, she'd need to stay grounded.

"Anyway, the plans for the hive, it sounds like you got a great idea of how to get that done. I'll wait to see how the architects of it, figure they'll make it look. Gonna be really exciting.

And I hope you know, that the only reason it's going so well, that I don't have to lean on you a lot, is that you made great work, in setting up some groundwork for things to run automated. The changelings you've trained, and directed? More productive than I've ever seen most of them. Seems to lift their spirits too, to have something to do. I hope you believe me when I say, that I doubt much of this would be happening, if it weren't for you, Rasputin. I don't think I can ever thank you enough, but I'm sure gonna keep trying.

Is there anything specific you'd like for me to work on while you're away? Beyond looking for a few extra council members, for when we need to step into the big league?"

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Did you sleep well?"

Her father yawned in response, "Oh about as well as can be expected, let's not stay up so late in the future alright?" He chuckled at that before returning his attention to his breakfast.

Arcade helped himself to her mother's cooking, but not before he portioned out an equal amount to Null. He nodded to her mother, "Thank you for this, it's been a long time since I was last cooked for. I'm usually the one making sure everyone else eats."

Her mother waved him off, "Oh it was nothing, I'm always happy to help where I can, which has been limited as of late, no need to wait for me, I ate before you came down."

After a bit of time eating, provided Null didn't ask a question, her dad would ask, "So, now that you're back in town, what are your plans going forward? You going to settle down here? Or are you thinking of heading back out there?"

 

(Void)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

It wasn't that varied, but hopefully it'd help some, and they could figure out some more, as they kept on.

It also wasn't very interesting, at least visually, to Peal, who would then turn her attention to Void's mane, trying to find where Lacuna was hiding, if he was even with her this morning.

 

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Goodmorning everyone. I know Vale is here earlier than me normally, but she's gone to help a friend for a little bit. Don't worry, she'll be back. At worst,. it shouldn't be more than a few days. I'll try and do my best to pick up on the lessons while she's away, but I hope you'll bear with me on that, a little.

But first, I think we should have some breakfast. Wash your hooves, and I'll set up the bowls for you. I also brought something I hope will be good for you, Elef. Please tell me if it isn't, okay?"

They seemed concerned by the news, given their history it was understandable that they might have some misgivings about ponies, or deer in this case, disappearing from their life without prior notice, potentially never to return. Still, they trusted Void, and were hopeful that they'd see Vale again. Ardee herded the others over to clean themselves up, Teal coming over to retrieve Peal from Void's back to help her wash up as well, before returning to the kitchen to see what Void had prepared for them.

Of all the things they'd been fed before, cereal was not one of them, which made them even more curious, "Cold soup?" asked Elef, "That's different."

 

(Molotov)

The next two rooms to the south were simple hallways, one containing a Tesla gate like they had passed before, so it did not pose them any trouble the second time. This period of relative calm gave Molotov the time to repair the tech he had recovered, giving him a sort of map device that the researchers in the facility had probably used to help themselves navigate. Unfortunately it could not connect to whatever system held the map, but it was able to make a map as they went, and had been tracking despite the broken screen since he picked it up. Giving him a clear path of how to go back they way they came. It was also picking up some signals that it warned him about, though without a system connection it could only tell the approximate distance from them and a tag, not a specific location.

About 3 rooms away was P-079, about 2 rooms away were C-035 and C-1997.

The next room to the south was a T room that led East and West, the middle of the room had a large pile of sand that had fallen through from a hole in the ceiling, the edges of the hole were coated in some of the same corrosion.

 

(Yannit)

Sandy seemed relieved for the change of conversation topics, "Well, she'll never admit it but the bookkeeper has really been struggling without you there to help her out. I'm sure she'll be relieved when you can return to your post. Everything else... it's been tense. We know what to do if someone gets killed, but abducted? And held for ransom? You don't run into that very often nowadays. The top brass were quite perplexed with how best to go about rescuing you. We don't want to be seen as an invading army after all, as much as some of us would prefer." Her eyes darted towards Nimble. "Still, everyone's relieved that you're back. Had you been captured much longer... there may have been even bigger problems."

 

(Bling)

6 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

. I hear nothing but good things about her, so her wisdom would be great, in the years to come. To think that might be millennia though... Oh boy, that's gonna be one hay of a ride, huh?"

Rasputin chuckled, "Well, far be it for me to speak ill of my granddaughter, but yes, she takes after her mother in all the best ways. Per the lifespan, it's not as bad as you might think, it helps to keep busy, give yourself long term tasks to work towards, hobbies to perfect over several years. Sleipnir became quite the well renowned architect, not that anyone would know it was her, and Permu became quite the seamstress. I'm sure you'll find something to occupy the years, and you'll have the other queens and I to keep you company."

He nodded, "I'll make the preparations then and leave as soon as is convenient. As to what should happen while I'm gone..." he thought a moment, looking around, "Just don't let them slack off in their training and their tasks. They know what they've been asked to do. You're doing a great job, keep up the good work. I expect to see good progress when I get back."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2022-03-25 at 6:33 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Her father yawned in response, "Oh about as well as can be expected, let's not stay up so late in the future alright?" He chuckled at that before returning his attention to his breakfast.

"You have foals on the way. I don't think you'll get much of a choice, dad."

She didn't know a whole lot about foals, but one thing Null were pretty certain about, were that at least in the early years, sleep were a luxury, not a guarantee. So he'd end up having some late nights, though it probably wasn't the first time. She weren't sure when Void and her, had been hoofed over to them, so it might have been some time after they had their more troublesome years. Likely not though. She didn't think they'd let them sit in a cold lab and scream away without attention. At the very least, it would simply be too annoying for them.

She were content sitting there, and just watch her parents and Arcade, go about things. It were still strange and unreal to her, this sight. Sure she had looked in through windows, and imagined that there would be a place like this somewhere, but not for her. She had long thought her only destiny, were to do her part for Void, and then sever the last ties, to a painful past, that she might finally be free.

In hindsight, an incredibly dumb plan, but it had made sense to her, at the time. That she now had that, and that she were still part of that though... It were weird, though she didn't feel as alien in the scene, as she had at first. First couple of weeks, she had felt like she were imposing somewhere, that she didn't belong. The therapist had a field day tackling that one, as well as her. She might've gotten a little... Rowdy at times, during the talks, so it were good the therapist, were the sort who knew when to use words, and when to throw down the whammo. And gods, a left hook she had...

On 2022-03-25 at 6:33 AM, Illiad Easle said:

After a bit of time eating, provided Null didn't ask a question, her dad would ask, "So, now that you're back in town, what are your plans going forward? You going to settle down here? Or are you thinking of heading back out there?"

This were the point, where she'd finally give pause, and look down into the table. Her meal a little less than halfway eaten, she were now sitting in silence, and contemplating how best to answer this. Seconds ticking by, as she gave it more thought, before she'd finally, just have to slack her hooves, and let out a deep, tired sigh.

"...I don't know...

I keep worrying there's more dangers out there, that'll come back to haunt us. Especially after... A-Anyway, it's not just us, y'know? There's so few left now, compared to then, so it's more important now, to make sure those wanting to harm 'em, gets their due. I know he said that it didn't have to be me, but I... I don't know if I can just sit back, and do nothing. Had things been a little different, it would've been easy enough to leave. 'Specially since I could've kept telling myself, I'd keep doing it for you. But..."

She'd look up from the table, and towards Arcade. The look in her eyes being warm, yet confused, and conflicted.

"It's not that simple anymore. I don't want to leave you behind. And I can't ask you to suffer the road with me, away from your own family. But then there's all sorts of dangers that might come here for revenge, and... Urgh. I just don't know, and the more I think about it, the harder it becomes."

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

 

(Void)

On 2022-03-25 at 6:33 AM, Illiad Easle said:

It also wasn't very interesting, at least visually, to Peal, who would then turn her attention to Void's mane, trying to find where Lacuna was hiding, if he was even with her this morning.

Lacuna had been into the saddlebag, to snatch a lose nut that he had noticed, that had snuck out of one of the container. Sadly it was too tough for him, since his kind were not able to eat something so tough. So after gnawing fruitlessly on it for a bit, he'd spit it out, and come crawling back out. And that's when he saw his little friend, and would joyfully use the tone he used, when it came to her, before quickly crawling up to her.

On 2022-03-25 at 6:33 AM, Illiad Easle said:

They seemed concerned by the news, given their history it was understandable that they might have some misgivings about ponies, or deer in this case, disappearing from their life without prior notice, potentially never to return. Still, they trusted Void, and were hopeful that they'd see Vale again. Ardee herded the others over to clean themselves up, Teal coming over to retrieve Peal from Void's back to help her wash up as well, before returning to the kitchen to see what Void had prepared for them.

Of all the things they'd been fed before, cereal was not one of them, which made them even more curious, "Cold soup?" asked Elef, "That's different."

"It's called cereal, actually. There's plenty of version, with some of them being normally served with milk. That's not something that easy to come by though, and neither is traditional cereal boxes, so this is a more homemade one, that I know from my own foalhood. With a bit of a twist. It's served in cactus water, and with a bit of added flavor, beyond just the ingredients. I also found some dried crickets, that I hope will make it better for you, Elef? I'm sorry if I'm wrong there, and please tell me if it isn't that good.

It should be a nice, crunchy meal, with some good taste. You'll all have some options to narrow down how you'd like it to taste, and of course, please taste test the things you don't know, just to be sure. Let me know if you don't like it, just so I know it for the future too, okay? There's a lot of foods one can use, and I can only know what ones you like, by a little trial and error."

She'd give them a good smile, and wait for them to be ready. She'd go simple, with some nut flakes, and cactus slices, bu there'd be several things the others could try. Though the dried crickets were likely best left to Elef, though as she had been told it, small things like this, weren't harmful for regular ponies. So if they wanted to try one, it would probably be okay.

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

 

(Molotov)

Well, least he got the thing activated, though it really weren't telling a lot either. Like, what were those numbers? Index number for whatever horrors lived here, he'd imagine. So things to avoid getting too near, even though he couldn't get a proper location. Either a network issues, or this thing was just not calibratable enough, though either way, he could at best, use it as an indicator of what road not to pick, and then go from there. Which y'know, were something at least. Hopefully they weren't gonna avoid stuff, that'd actually help them. Stuff like this key, told tat there were some beneficial things in here. Though probably not as much as dangerous stuff.

Since he didn't have the data to know what the creatures/objects were, he'd avoid where he assumed some of them were, which were in various side rooms, and instead followed Felicia down the pathway, that she were leading them, and used the scanner to see how close they were to something bad. Might not give him the direct location, but it seemed to track distance, and it didn't take a genius to guess where, roughly.

As they got into the room of sand, and corrosive, Felicia would eye the scene. She knew this. This were where she had been earlier, not further piled up with sand. However, it also had the corrosive aspect to it, which might indicate that the broken, toxin machine were here too. They needed to be certain, and as such, Felicia would order Molotov to stay back, as she scurried forward. She had far better reaction times than him, and could easier escape, if say, something tried to take a leap at her. And worst case scenario, she had backed herself up. She could be remade. Albeit with a few memories lacking, of what happened after her untimely demise. Though best to try and avoid that, lest there were no other options.

So she would approach, senses high, and see if it were possible to pass. Any sort of movement, and she would instantly jolt back. She were not taking chances. In case it seemed easy enough, Molotov would be signalled to follow, and they could move forwards. Hopefully, they'd be able to get to it, and Vale, before it were too late.

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

 

(Yannit)

"I hope to get back to work soon. Sounds like it's needed too.

That last part though, sounded ominous. What would've happened, if I wasn't extracted? Have their been trouble with the locals over this?"

Sounded like something was amiss. As well as Peace being a seemingly integral part of things, if they were thinking that the whole thing was about to break apart, without her being present. A little sad, honestly, but thus were things, it seemed. Though there were one more thing, which she were morbidly curious about.

"...Just uhm... Out of curiosity, you said there was a ransom? What... What was I worth?"

She'd play the part, and look both worried about hearing the answer, but with a small tinge of curiosity too Who wouldn't want to know, what others thought they were worth? Though from what she had gathered from Peace, she had not been treated, like she were intended to be released.

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

 

(Bling)

"Hobbies, huh? Well... I kinda always wanted to really put the time and effort, into becoming as great as illusions, as Cheshire is. My ventriloquism still needs some work, and I've yet to master how she kept so many tangible forms going at once, but maybe with time, and effort, I'll be able to get there. It's a great set of skills to have, for our kind of hive, you know. Pacifists can still contribute, via support, and confusion, and she does that amazingly.

I don't think being like that, is gonna work entirely for this new hive. It were fine when we were small, and insignificant, in the big picture. But now... *sigh* I'll never be a fighter myself. I neither have the skill, nor the will, to raise my hoof towards others. But we'll need those like Bruce here, who can fight, if need be."

She'd nod towards her bodyguard, who'd do the same, before scanning over things in here once more. Didn't seem like he had a lot to focus on, as this place seemed as safe as ever, but one could never know. And he wasn't interested in losing another queen. And if that were to stay the case, they were gonna need more fighters. Thankfully, they had several soldier drones, and a few that'd work well as combat teachers, to ensure a strong force, just in case. All they had needed to really get somewhere, were unification, and that were finally underway now.

"And I promise you, I won't tell them all to slack off, and have a party. Yet. Though eventually, we're gonna have to let people just relax, and enjoy life a little too. All work, and no fun, makes for some crazy folks. But I promise I'll wait with the party for now. Once the hive seems to be have been dug out well though, we're gonna have a party, and you're gonna like it. And the more you complain, the bigger a party hat, I'm gonna glue to your head."

She'd pull her tongue playfully towards Rasputin. He likely wouldn't complain about easing up, and enjoying himself a bit, but it were just a bit of fun. He could take it.

Edited March 27, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

Her parents shared a look while Arcade simply looked at her was his own conflicted expression. Her parents were the first to speak up, "Well, I'm sure you know what we would prefer, but far be it for us to tell you what your destiny is. Still, the two of you are always welcome here, take all the time you need to figure it out."

Arcade followed up, "If you can't ask me, then I'll ask you. Please, let me join you. My family... it's time they got to live their own lives, be their own ponies, they don't me around all the time for that. Besides, they've done very well so far without me. If anything, it's almost like a trade, they get your sister, and you get me."

 

(Void)

Peal would be quick to hug Lacuna when given the chance, before she was scooped up by Teal to get ready for breakfast.

Elef was a bit surprised by the addition provided for him, which the others would stay away from, though he would remark after trying them that they were a bit dry for his liking.

Still, all things considered the young ponies were open to experimenting with the provided food, and not so quick to eat everything presented them as before. It seemed they were gaining trust that there would be good food later, that things were starting to normalize for them. Ardee was more conscious of this realization than the others.

Toupé would be one of the first to finish, having not been as hungry as the others, "So, what are we going to learn about today?"

 

(Molotov)

The sand, and the corrosive goo, were seemingly inert, even on closer inspection, which indicated that the goo secreted by the automaton was only dangerous for some period of time after it left it. At the moment it was no more dangerous than tar. The ceiling didn't look to be in any further danger of collapse, so they could proceed through the room without issue.

There was very little of interest in the other rooms that they passed through. There was a T room that was the same East/West that the decrept automaton had been standing in, upon their crossing that room the distances of the three marked items got nearly identical, then two of them disappeared from the list, leaving C-1997 three rooms away.

If they continued West before heading North on the next available route, then their distance to C-1997 would remain about constant, then get closer as they turned north, then start to increase again. They passed an open door with a small placard next to it with a picture of what looked like sheet music, it was labeled C-012, Cognitohazard.

 

(Yannit)

In regards to her first question, Sandy sighed, "It's... complicated. Apparently Mr. House was one of the only ones who strongly supported our presence, and with him gone and his daughter missing, the other heads, or at least their gangs, were starting to encroach on his territory. When we fought them back, well, some of the locals started to think we were trying to replace House, which has made some of the others suspicious that we'll try and replace them too. Your idea to hire locals was working very well to disprove that notion, as well as your plans to reach out to the new owner of the Top Suits. Remember? There's talk around town that they've been invited to meet with the other heads. If you're feeling up to it, you might want to meet with them sooner, rather than later."

In regards to her second question, Sandy was a bit less sure, "That's just the thing, they wanted the local currency, Debt, in exchange for you, something like 1000 years, which the locals say is a very large amount, but how are you supposed to pay that? Which was another source of friction, that many of the locals are resistant to accepting Trojan currency."

 

(Bling)

Rasputin chuckled, "You'll hear no complaints from me, fun is crucial to any hive thriving, at least any hive devoted to such positive emotions. Fun is exactly what hive Gelatine lacked, and contributed no small part, I expect, to it's collapse."

With that he would turn to leave, "I'll make the preparations then, best of luck with your meeting with the city heads tomorrow."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

She didn't know what to say, when Arcade volunteered to join her Even asked her in fact, if he could go with her, if she ended up leaving. In a way, it would make it easier to choose now, as there were then not that tether here anymore. Plus, she wouldn't be alone anymore, like she had been fearing. Apart from Nine of course, but that was different. She didn't love him, nor wanted to lay around, holding him. Nor any of the other things, that were associated with having a coltfriend.

Yet now... She needed his word on something. A snippet of information, that might make or break it all for her. A point of view that he were likely the only one who could answer, right here and now.

"...Nine? If I said yes, and went out there... Is it permanent? I know the Consul said something about that, but things have been hectic, and I've forgotten what it was, he said about that. I need to know that if I say yes, if I would ever have a chance to walk away, if something happened?"

"I... Just let me think for a moment."

This were going to be big, but what way it would swing... She knew what her parents wished for, but at the end of the day, she had to follow her heart, and consciousness. And if Arcade could join her, and she might one day retire from it, due to having foals... She had an idea what her answer would be then.

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

 

(Void)

It seemed like Cereal wasn't a preference for them. Honestly? She were kind of happy about that. Thus far, they seemed to like everything, and she were wondering if there were perhaps more complacency than anything, and they just accepted what they got, rather than let them know, if it wasn't something they liked too much. It seemed like they would be honest abut things, if not in words, then actions at least. Elef did use words though, and mentioned he was thinking these were a bit too dry. Void would thank him for being honest with her, then let him know that she'd try to pickle them, to put some moisture into them, and see if that might be better. With some luck, they'd be able to test for him tomorrow. Might be it'd help. Might be it just wasn't salvageable. But at least she'd try.

"Well, I don't really have a plan for today. Yesterday got a little hectic, after my sister got back home, and Vale had to leave for a bit, so I honestly haven't prepared a lot.

Perhaps you have some ideas? Is there something specific you're curious about, perhaps? If not, I can try and think of some sort of class to set up. Hmm... You had math yesterday, so maybe history, would be something? Big sis and I went a looooot of places, in our youths. I could teach about some history, somewhere. I'm pretty sure I could find a map somewhere, if I looked around."

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

 

(Molotov)

Hey, a spot of luck for once. The pathway hadn't been totally smashed, and didn't seem to have a danger lurking. That were nice. Probably not a stroke of luck they should get used to though. And might just mean the whole thing would collapse behind them.

...Well, no turning back now. They had to go tot he rescue, and that meant getting to the control room. And as it stood right now, the way were through here. Felicia had this part down from last she were here, so it should be working for 'em. It were just to push on.

As they did though, he'd notice that the number of some of the nearby entities, were getting awfully close. Especially that C-1997. Probably something bad, potentially locked into one of these here rooms. He couldn't say for sure, but it seemed like it were a few rooms down. It seemed to remain stationary though, so that were somethin'. He had to admit, he were curious, but from what he had seen so far, nothing in this place, was worth getting close to.

And that included the one they got to. He might know know exactly what a cognitohazard were, but if it were anything like the sort he had seen described before, in loosely similar terms, it were gonna mess with his head. And that, there weren't time for. They had to press on.

Felicia were curious, and did halt briefly, to take a small peek inside. All she could see, were that something were suspended in there, but she didn't look long enough through the crack, to get more details than that. Molotov rushed her on before that.

Now, after they got hold of Vale, and dealt with Panic, he'd probably be happy to check a few things. But for now, they had to rush, to get to her, before she ended up dead. Curiosity could wait until then. So long as nothing jumped out at them, he weren't touching any door, that wasn't leading them on the right path.

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

 

(Yannit)

On 2022-03-29 at 5:56 AM, Illiad Easle said:

In regards to her first question, Sandy sighed, "It's... complicated. Apparently Mr. House was one of the only ones who strongly supported our presence, and with him gone and his daughter missing, the other heads, or at least their gangs, were starting to encroach on his territory. When we fought them back, well, some of the locals started to think we were trying to replace House, which has made some of the others suspicious that we'll try and replace them too. Your idea to hire locals was working very well to disprove that notion, as well as your plans to reach out to the new owner of the Top Suits. Remember? There's talk around town that they've been invited to meet with the other heads. If you're feeling up to it, you might want to meet with them sooner, rather than later."

"I can barely remember that. I guess my head isn't as clear as I keep telling myself it is...

*sigh* I'll look into getting a chat with the leader then. Maybe it'll clear things up too. I'll set it up, after I had some rest."

This could be good, or bad. If she had to meet with just Bling, this could be to her advantage. Had been her sending out the word in the first place, so she'd understand what work had to be done here. But if it was in front of everyone... Bling was many things, but a masterful liar, wasn't one of them. The shrewd casino owners, would lure something were off quickly. At least if she didn't speak with Bling first. This had to be done, and quickly.

On 2022-03-29 at 5:56 AM, Illiad Easle said:

In regards to her second question, Sandy was a bit less sure, "That's just the thing, they wanted the local currency, Debt, in exchange for you, something like 1000 years, which the locals say is a very large amount, but how are you supposed to pay that? Which was another source of friction, that many of the locals are resistant to accepting Trojan currency."

"Me, for a thousand years? Can't say I have any idea what the value exchange is on that, but if the locals say it's big, I guess we'll have to take their word on it."

Yannit did know the exchange actually, and frankly, no matter how much Peace were a valuable asset, she were not worth a thousand years of debt. No one were, and she where pretty sure that the gang knew that. Only ones who could get away with that sort of price, were the top heads of the casinos. Not some guards from Troy, regardless of how Peace had clearly, underrepresented her importance to things here. Trying to reach out to the locals, and establishing a proper base of operations, for Troy? The local law had been the Grey. With them now being more in hiding, there were nothing keeping the town running on track, except for money, and power. If Troy got a hoof in proper, then seeing how they had a proper guard force, they could make a mark, and threaten the power of several individuals in town. Be it gangs, or the casino owners, or other higher ups.

And that wasn't even counting those, who distrusted Troy and their motives in the first place. Which were fair, but not to this extend. Being against something, and protesting stuff, were not the same, as kidnapping, and planned murder of an important guard. Likely to set an example. Or place someone more workable in charge, of the Troy forces. Could be both.

Seems like this could end up going higher than thus this base... *sigh* Could nothing ever be easy? The list of suspects at that point, would be large, and include some she'd rather not cross. Heck, only one she could cross off, were Bling. She were a leader, but she had never, in all the time she had known the drone, strived for power. She only did what she did, to help others, and that wouldn't include trying to assassinate a guard, that she didn't even know about.

Rasputin... Ergh, she wouldn't put it past him. She didn't trust him, but it seemed a little hasty, for him to be behind all of this. She wouldn't rule things out though. Not with how the stories went.

"Not surprised they won't take Trojan coin though. Can imagine some of them are worried, that we're moving in to take over. Or they just don't think it'll keep value."

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

 

(Bling)

"Oh no you don't. You're not getting away from me, without giving me a little sugar."

Bling would grin, and flutter out in front of Rasputin, so that she could give him a nice, big hug. The joy rolling from her, were nearly thick enough to be harvested by itself, but that was just how she were, and this felt like just the thing to do.

"Mmmm. You have a great trip, okay? If there's anything you need for the trek, just lemme know, and we'll get it sorted right away. And don't go looking for trouble out there, you hear me? Things are calmer now, but there's still lots of bad things. Be careful, and come back home safely."

He wasn't one of her changelings. First off, she hadn't any, technically, and second off, he were several hundreds of times, older than she were. Yet she still thought of him as part of the hive, and as a friend, so she wanted to know that she'd think about him, while he were gone. And with her last comment, he should also get a sense, that she were worried about his safety, despite his strength. Sure he were strong and stuff, but everyone had their limits, and she'd keep him in mind, in the days to come. Already been more than enough over the years, that had been lost. She didn't want to lose another friends now.

The fact that the ritual couldn't go on without him? Distant fourth reason. Maybe fifth. He weren't a tool she were using. He was a changeling, and a friend. His personal health were more of a concern for her.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

The others nodded, unable to listen in to Nine's comments in her head, "Of course, we don't want to pressure you after all."

Nine shook his head, "It's not a lifetime commitment, no. Typically, the procedure is that when you want to 'retire' you find and train a successor, and turn your companion, me in this case, over to them. Thus resigning your commission and passing it on to them. If you are incapable of finding or training a replacement, you can always turn to the Avatar of Vengeance, the Consul in this case, and ask them to release you from your commission. Given your relationship, I don't think he'd deny you. But if both of those options fail, well... You could follow your father's example, and simply cast me out."

He continued, "Given the fears you expressed earlier, I think you'd likely prefer the first option. And if I could suggest one... I think Arcade's 'sister' Ardee night be a good candidate. She seems to harbor some unresolved debts of her own."

 

(Void)

(As a comment, Elef commented on them being dry because they didn't have blood in them, remember that Void knows about his vampirism)

They seemed intrigued by the topic of History, Teal the most curious, "History? What's that?" It seemed they hadn't been taught that in the facility.

Elef seemed to have an answer, "Oh! I think I know that one, They told me about it at the festival. History is like stories about things that happened before, like they told me about how the Fastar clan got started and things that happened between then and now," he turned towards Void, "Is that right?"

The others seemed even more interested given Elef's answer. 

 

(Molotov)

4 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Felicia were curious, and did halt briefly, to take a small peek inside.

The door itself led to a stairway that led downward, a faint red light shining from a door at the bottom, but she could not see what was contained within from this vantage point.

4 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Now, after they got hold of Vale, and dealt with Panic, he'd probably be happy to check a few things. But for now, they had to rush, to get to her, before she ended up dead. Curiosity could wait until then. So long as nothing jumped out at them, he weren't touching any door, that wasn't leading them on the right path.

Continuing down the hallway, they'd pass through another Tesla Gate, at which point C-1997 was starting to get further away.

The next room was a T room with exits to the East and West. This room at least looked familiar to Felicia, she had been in this one before, the control room was not far from here.

Continuing West, they'd find another elevator, this one with a collapsed shaft, the door was was fully corroded and the elevator car fully rusted away.

At that point C-1997 was closer than ever, only one room away, the map now indicating a direction, indicating that it was South-West of them, likely there was a room to the South of the next room to the West.

 

(Yannit)

While 1000 years was fairly uncommon as an actual amount of debt to be traded, it was far more common as a Banishment Price. The Grey had the phrase: "Life, or a thousand years, whichever comes last." So had the Grey stated that price, it would have meant that Peace had been banished by the Grey. But more likely the gang had simply been trying to invoke that fear themselves, which may have explained why they had been destroyed by the Grey in response.

That much info was fed to her though her hidden blindfold, it seemed like someone was listening in on the situation.

 

Sandy shrugged, turning her attention back to her food, "Who knows, it's not like the concept is foreign to them, this was a Trojan city for a short while between the Summer War and the Crisis. So most of these ponies have used the Sand Dollar before. Still, I'm sure once we prove ourselves, show that we're here to stay, things will normalize."

Sandy would finish her food quickly so long as Yannit didn't have other questions for her, "Well, I for one could use some rest, and I'm sure you do too. Want to head back together? Or is there something else you need to take care of first?"

 

(Bling)

Rasputin was surprised by Bling's request, until she revealed that she only wanted a hug, and nothing more. After Queen Gelatine, and a particularly enchanting mare in Manehatten 30 years ago, he had sworn off romantic engagements. But still, a hug was alright. He chuckled, "Of course, I made it here from Tartarus alright, I'm sure I can get up north without issue. I'll return as soon as I can."

With that he would depart, leaving Bling to figure out what she was going to do next.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

"I'm not condemning her to this fate. She still have a chance in life. If I'm going to train a replacement, it would be someone with nothing left to lose, who needed it. She isn't there."

But then, it were a big world, and if they were going out there, they were bound to find someone, who'd in time, be able to function as a suitable replacement, if it came to that. Which it likely would, as this presented her little to no excuses, as she could do enough to not feel guilty, and yet still in time, find herself able, to get a life of her own. One with Arcade, hopefully.

"And I'm not him. I don't care how much you'll aggravate me, I will not cast you out, to burn in the sun. I'm not a monster... Not that much."

Had she done morally questionable things? Yes. More than she could recount frankly, though she sadly always remembered the worst of them. But she weren't going to torture someone to death like that. Even if he did something unforgivable, she'd not kill him, but at worst, toss him out, in the midst of some dungeon, out in the desert. Isolated, but not being burned alive. She wasn't her sad excuse of a *father*, and she'd never be. Not in this manner at least, though she were sure there were, and would come, similarities over the years, that she wouldn't be overly thrilled to be made aware of.

"...I'll stay til the foals are born. Then we'll leave.

I'm sorry mom. Dad. I just don't think I can stay. I might not be home a lot after this, but my role have always been to protect my family. Void can do it here. I know she will. But the horrors out there? They have to be dealt with too. I've gotten enough proof of that, to know we're not isolated from them."

The two examples from Tartarus might be extremes, but who were to say they were the only ones? Or that nothing else would come in, from the outside? Her new little siblings, her eventual nephews and nieces... Perhaps own foals... They weren't safe, with how the world were now. And if she could change that, she should do that. For them, and for everyone else, who'd fall to miserable cretins otherwise.

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

(Void)

Void had actually forgotten about his vampirism, and took a few more minutes than the pickling idea, before she recalled it. Made a for a brief, awkward moment in her mind, and a small bit of internal scolding. She'd need to think better on this the next time, and get something still alive and wriggling. She had seen some have bug *farms*, on a small scale, to help feed various pets. Maybe she could try to go there next time instead. It was a bit of a detour, but if it were inclusive for Elef, it were worth her at least trying.

"That's right. There's various kinds of history too. What you spoke about, with the Falstar clan? That would be considered a legend. The sort of amazing story of the past, that have some evidence, but sounds fantastical. Had there been none, that's what we would've considered a myth. Were it religious, it would be doctrine though. They get iffy if not marked right.

Most history though,. just deals with facts, and what have happened in the long years of the country, area, or even specific location. Let's see if we can't find a map and we can go from there...

I'll look for one, then you all be good foals, and put your bowls into the sink. I'll handle the washing up after I find the map."

It wouldn't take too long for her to find one. It were tucked into one of the larger books, and unfolded, would give a good world view. Had most places on it it seemed, barring some rather obscure, isolated islands. Most of whom she only knew of anyway, from having been there. This would do nicely.

"Okay then. Pick a place you think sounds interesting, and I'll see if I can't tell something about it. We've not been everywhere, but it's pretty close. How about we take one at a time, starting with... Ardee."

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

 

(Molotov)

Geez, that was one persistent thing, that 1997, huh? Kept being 'round them, even if it seemed like they were getting further on, away from it. Was it chasing them, or were they going in circles here? He didn't know. Felicia were the one steering them on, and she were not halting for anything. Not even the elevator, which seemed to have had a real bad time. Might be that their corrosive *friend* from earlier, had been on that. Or if not that... Then could something have gotten up and escaped, before it crashed down again? Probably best not to think about that, and hope all the things down here, were one of a kind. The less of these sorts of things out there, the better. Indiscriminate melting, was generally not good for the populace.

 At this point though, Molotov were getting a bit tired of this cat and mouse game, with 1997. The path they were going, had them pass right by the door, where the thing would be in. So know what? He'd take a peek. Just to get this over with, he'd open the door, see what the fuzz was about, and keep both weapon and horn ready, in case he had to blast something back, and shut the door tight again. Granted, if the door couldn't open, that was a moot point, but provided it could, he'd just have this over with, and be on their way. Shouldn't take more than like, 5-10 seconds, he'd wager. Unless again, he had to fiddle with a lock. Bugger it, it that was the case, and just keep moving.

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

 

(Yannit)

Yannit honestly didn't know about the phrase all that well. She had made an early decision, that if the Grey were involved, she'd close her eyes and ears, and not get involved. Something which had so far, done her well. The irony in her now working for them though, were not lost on her.

Didn't seem like she had a choice about learning it now though, as she were given an actual briefing, in the middle of all of this. She didn't know this thing could do that, though she had suspected there would be someone looking in. She heard some rumors that The Grey saw everything. This would certainly fit in with that, and would make her rather paranoid moving forward, about what she'd spend her likely meager free time on, after this gig.

"There was a time before the Summer Wars though, and with how things are going, maybe the old garde is worried what'll happen, if we get a hoof too far into their town. I dunno, Maybe I'm just getting paranoid."

Yannit wouldn't ask more, but just look around, as she finished her own meal. Not the best thing she ever tasted, but not the worst either. The times after her stolen estate had been ransacked, and until now, had not exactly been caviar and honey. It had certainly gotten better after she came to this town though, yet not as it once were. And this meal were... Fine. That was likely the best way to describe it for her. Just fine.

"Maybe a rest will help clear my head a little. I'm with your plan on this."

Yannit didn't rule out this were a rouse, so she'd sleep light, and keep aware, just in case say, someone tried to kidnap her from her bed. Or attempted to stab her. Much like ponies, Changelings were weak to a knife blade in the heart, so she had to take that into consideration. She'd prefer not to die for the work.

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

 

(Bling)

Waving goodbye to him as he left, Bling were now left alone, and having to think about what to do. Hmmm... Maybe now would be a good time to just see for herself, how the various teams he had set in motion were doing? Didn't have to be the leaders per se. Just seeing how those they inspired were going at it, were information enough too go around. Might as well go have a look around there then. Yet where to start?

Well, the back rooms could be a good start. Why not begin right here, in the old theater after all, yeah? Surely there'd be some of the work crew, in one fashion or another, around here.

(she's gonna doodle around with stuff like this. If you want a time skip, feel free)

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2022-04-06 at 3:43 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I'm not condemning her to this fate. She still have a chance in life. If I'm going to train a replacement, it would be someone with nothing left to lose, who needed it. She isn't there."

Nine raised an eyebrow at that, "You act like one can't find fulfillment serving Vengeance. Like one must choose between it and living a normal life. Many ponies have served Vengeance before you, and still led full lives. Vengeance does not preclude you from having a family. Still, if you don't want to train her, you cannot be obligated to."

 

On 2022-04-06 at 3:43 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"...I'll stay til the foals are born. Then we'll leave.

I'm sorry mom. Dad. I just don't think I can stay. I might not be home a lot after this, but my role have always been to protect my family. Void can do it here. I know she will. But the horrors out there? They have to be dealt with too. I've gotten enough proof of that, to know we're not isolated from them."

They were understandably disappointed by that answer, but accepted that it was her decision to make. Her mother answered, "I hope you don't mean you'll leave immediately after they're born, that could be any day now after all. But I won't ask you to stay till they're grown either. Just... They should be able to get to know you, and not just from us telling them about you."

Still, they weren't going to try to sway her decision. The rest of breakfast went without incident, with her father getting up from the table, "Well, I need to head off to work. You five have a good day now you hear?" The extra two in that group no doubt referred to the unborn foals. Then left after kissing his wife.

Arcade at that point would turn to ask Null, "So, what will we be doing in the mean time?"

 

(Void)

They all gathered around the map once it was presented to them, studying it like they had the calendar when they were taught about that. They seemed to be trying to figure out where they were, until Ardee went right out and asked, "Um, first, could you point out where we are on this map?"

Assuming Void did so, pointing out Troy on the map, they'd try and trace back their journey to where they started, eventually ending up near Las Pegasus, which was correct, Ardee continued, "Well, I guess it's best if we started here, where we started. Could you tell us about this place?"

Void could choose if she wanted to talk about Equestria as a whole, or just about Las Pegasus.

 

(Molotov)

Following the tracker towards where it indicated that C-1997 was, it would bring them to the containment area for C-914, the plaque by the large door indicated that it was considered Safe, with the added warning of 'Nonstandard Spacetime'. There would be a card scanner to open the door, which would accept the card that Molotov had.

The door would open slowly, revealing none other than Vale, or at least a creature that looked like Vale, interacting with a very large machine that dominated the majority of the space in the room. She didn't seem to notice the door having opened as she pushed a bunch of items into one side of the machine, and pressed a button.

The machine whirred to life like some massive clockwork machine, the sound was fairly loud, but one could hear all the different sorts of mechanisms working within, until it wound down, and a small device came out of the opposite side of the machine, which she would collect, before turning to see Molotov and Felicia there, she looked a little worse for wear, like she had crawled through a bunch of garbage and some ventilation shafts to get where she was. In several places her fake fur was torn, revealing the mechanical components lying beneath. "Oh, there you two are, I was worried when you two weren't where I told you to wait, I thought the residents of the facility got to you. Still, you're here now, let's take care of this, once and for all."

 

(Yannit)

Sandy nodded, and would lead the way first to return the used dishes so they could be washed, then back to the room, where she would also go about getting ready for bed, "Well, I hope you rest well. See you in the morning."

Nothing would happen until much later in the night, after Yannit had fallen asleep, such that she was woken by some hushed whispers from outside the slightly open door into the hallway. Sandy was not in her bed. Listening closely, she could make out two voices speaking outside, though the whispered tones made it hard to tell who exactly it was.

"How the BUCK is she back? And why haven't you taken care of her?"

"I... I..."

"You what? You don't want to take her place any more? You were so gung-ho about it just the other week. What, did you get second thoughts? Did you forget all the times she overlooked you? All the times she was promoted instead of you?"

"I..."

"You take care of her, or I will."

What was perhaps more interesting than the words, were the emotions involved. The one doing the most talking was royally pissed, while the other... they were an interesting mix of remorse, fear, and the same rage as the first. Almost like their emotions were being manipulated, like the rage was being forced on them, and they were trying to fight it back. Detecting that would depend on Yannit's experience with magical emotional manipulation.

Soon after that point, Sandy walked back into the room, her emotions were a roiling mess as she put herself back in bed.

 

(Bling)

(Let's skip to the next day, since the Yannit section is already at night going in to the next day. The next planned event for Bling is the meeting with the other city leaders. Go ahead and describe her morning routine if you like, and I'll pick up to the meeting in the next post.)

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Nine raised an eyebrow at that, "You act like one can't find fulfillment serving Vengeance. Like one must choose between it and living a normal life. Many ponies have served Vengeance before you, and still led full lives. Vengeance does not preclude you from having a family. Still, if you don't want to train her, you cannot be obligated to."

"Having to kill others, changes you. ven if she didn't need to do it directly, she'd be scarred by what she'd get to see. After all those foals have been through already, she deserves a chance to be free of all of it."

Maybe it would still happen someday. Perhaps even before she'd inevitably leave, she'd come to teach the youngling a few things, and prepare her. But not until she had a chance to show, that she could live better than this. Cause one way or another, the path of vengeance, couldn't help but be a bloody mess.

For some, like Null, it were familiar. Maybe in some way, even therapeutic. But it were not something she wanted to force a young mind down, if there were still hope for another way. She had been pushed down this herself, and it had broken her, time and time again. She were more or less held together by metaphorical duct tape, and denial. That wasn't good for anyone.

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

They were understandably disappointed by that answer, but accepted that it was her decision to make. Her mother answered, "I hope you don't mean you'll leave immediately after they're born, that could be any day now after all. But I won't ask you to stay till they're grown either. Just... They should be able to get to know you, and not just from us telling them about you."

"I dunno how long it'll be, but we'll need time to prepare. It'll probably be a while longer than their birth.

Void made it sound like she needed my help with something, regarding the foals I send her way, so I'll see what I can do there too.

*sigh* I know it's not what you wanted, mom. You're probably worried something's gonna go wrong, but I think this is the best. Not just for you, but me too. I'm not meant to sit around idle. I don't think that was ever gonna be possible. I have to feel like I'm doing something, and this feels right.

Sides, you don't got to worry 'bout me. I'll have Arcade to watch over me. He'll make sure I don't stick my head in places it doesn't belong."

Null would smile towards Arcade. She trusted he'd be making sure that things went well, and in turn, she'd do the same. Might be he had yet to encounter a way to actually die, but the world were vast. Plenty ways it could happen, and she had to do her best, to keep him safe too.

8 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Still, they weren't going to try to sway her decision. The rest of breakfast went without incident, with her father getting up from the table, "Well, I need to head off to work. You five have a good day now you hear?" The extra two in that group no doubt referred to the unborn foals. Then left after kissing his wife.

Arcade at that point would turn to ask Null, "So, what will we be doing in the mean time?"

"See you later then, dad. Don't go overworking yourself.

And the two of us, are gonna be spending some time preparing over the next weeks, or even months, Arcade. Combat practice for one, and some resource gathering, before the day comes. I wanna make sure we're ready.

We also need to have word with the consul. He wanted an answer too. But more importantly, we're gonna make sure there's always eyes on mom. Like she said, the foals are coming any day now. Can't leave her alone, when that happens."

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

(Void)

She'd point on the map, where they were at this point, and were rather impressed by them correctly reading the map, to the area where they had been before. She didn't know they did so well with maps, but it were definitely good they did. Never knew when you might need to follow a map, so it were a good, baseline skill to posses.

"Very good. Yes, that's Las Pegasus. I've never been there, and don't know what it's like now, but I heard stories, from before the war. I'll tell you what I know."

And so she would. She's tell them tales as she heard it, of the city of wonders, filled with entertainment for beings of all ages. Large playgrounds and festivals, carousels and performers. Everything to entice and please, a young foals heart. And not just them. For those more grown, there would always be the lure of the various attractions, with the primary being the numerous casinos. Places that offered a chance to make your dreams come true, if you were lucky enough to win big.

The house would always win out the biggest, and there were gambling addictions, but there were always the chance that you could win big. That was their whole business really. That hope. That's why she had heard it were best advised, that if you went to a casino, that you went in with the understanding, that you'd probably lose. So for the attempt, one did best in setting some money aside, and then just go in, play for that, and if you got any winnings, leave with that, and be pleased. Just have the experience, and move on.

If you were an adult, obviously. Younglings weren't allowed on the gambling floor, and she would explain why that were too. Laws and common sense mostly. As well as liability, and the moral issues, and questions there'd then be about the whole practice, if they began preying on foals.

She'd speak of the wonderful attractions they had been told were there, and had planned to go see, before they were taken away. The things she told them, mostly made it out to be a good place to go. A town enticing the hopeful and desperate, to wring them for what they got, if they didn't know how to control themselves. yet if you had self control, and went there for fun, or to entertain foals, there were much good about the town. 

However, she would also tell them, that this were what she knew of the old place. She weren't aware how it were now, all that much, and from what Null had told her, it were not good. Gangs and greed were the driving forces now, as well as strange, dangerous magics. The wonders that once were, had apparently mostly been either forgotten, or cast aside, with the few, trying theirs to uplift the many, with what little they had left.

"And that is what I know. Although, I have hope for a brighter future. one where the magic and wonder comes back again, even if it will probably take years. Right now though, it's not a foal friendly place. It's better you came here to Troy, than go there."

Still weird at times, to think of her mentioning Troy in such a hopeful way... *sigh* How times changed. Thankfully, it were mostly for the better, thus far. Not that it could have gone much worse...

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

 

(Molotov)

Felicia were not happy about them slowing down, even briefly, for the sake of Molotov's own curiosity. This seemed a bad place to indulge such recklessness, and she were openly telling him as much. Though by the time she had finished her sentence, he had already swiped the card, and opened the door. Leading to him getting a smack in the back of the head, with the flat side of her weak leg. Something that were not all that rare for her to do, but in fairness, were often deserved.

This time, seemed to be one of the rare ones, where it weren't. Though to be fair, how were they to know, that apparently, C-1997, were the codename for Vale? Go figure she had one, but still.

11 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

"Oh, there you two are, I was worried when you two weren't where I told you to wait, I thought the residents of the facility got to you. Still, you're here now, let's take care of this, once and for all."

"We got chased a bit 'round the place, but we're fine. You're looking a bit worse for the wear though. We outta look into that later, but frankly, just happy we found ya in one piece. We've been looking for ya."

While he talked, he'd go inside, with Felicia following. Her eyes were going over everything in here though. The machine, the floor, the walls, Vale- Every possible detail, to see if she saw something that indicated this were some sort of trap. This seemed rather convenient after all, and while she didn't think there were zero percent chance this were real, she did think the odds were against this, and she had to be ready to make a quick escape. This *Vale* could be anything after all, from an illusion, to an advanced mimic. Heck, the whole room could be a mimic's maw, luring in passing creatures with illusions.

"Anyway, need my help for somethin' here? You're the expert, but I know my fair share of machines. And if you need it exploded, I'm your stallion. Just say the word. Probably quickly too. Panic's been acting like a right flank so far."

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

 

(Yannit)

11 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Nothing would happen until much later in the night, after Yannit had fallen asleep, such that she was woken by some hushed whispers from outside the slightly open door into the hallway. Sandy was not in her bed. Listening closely, she could make out two voices speaking outside, though the whispered tones made it hard to tell who exactly it was.

"How the BUCK is she back? And why haven't you taken care of her?"

"I... I..."

"You what? You don't want to take her place any more? You were so gung-ho about it just the other week. What, did you get second thoughts? Did you forget all the times she overlooked you? All the times she was promoted instead of you?"

"I..."

"You take care of her, or I will."

Hmm, seemed like sleeping lightly was a good idea, and not just tonight.

As Sandy had risen up, and gone outside, Yannit would have noticed, but kept pretending like she were sleeping. When Sandy's back were turned, her eyes would follow, yet she didn't rise up, before the mare had left the room. It seemed obvious she were meeting with someone, so Yannit had planned to track her down. Likely in some other form, but she hadn't even the chance to leave the room. Whomever she were meeting with, were just outside, though sadly, she couldn't just see who it were. Of course, she could just open the door fully, and reveal him. Likely deal with him too, after that, but something were still telling her, that it were too early, to blow her cover. Something wasn't right here, and the conversation, just made it even clearer.

The emotions too, talked a good story. One of jealousy, taking advantage of, by someone with their own agenda. Sandy being one she had been right, in thinking she shouldn't trust, yet at the same time, not doing this by her own malice. The talk, and emotions, made it rather clear, that whomever she were speaking with, were forcing her to act out on things, that were natural to most. Jealousy over missed promotions, better bedding, chances passed by, etc. Most had those feelings, but very few actually acted upon it. This one, were seemingly making Sandy acting on hers, and she were starting to think a dreadful thought about whomever it were.

They were a changeling.

Pushing emotions on another, weren't exactly an uncommon trait. Doing it correctly, took time and practice, but it were all too feasible, and sadly didn't limit the number of suspects. Had this been more mind bending, she had a few in mind, but pushing emotions, and manipulating... She had her ideas who this were, and more than that, what. Though it seemed like either they had not met her, or weren't good at reading through the glamour of other changelings. Cause it sounded like they weren't aware of what she were. Even if she were good at hiding it, the better trackers should still know.

Then again, could all be for appearances, and now, someone were out there, looking for the real Peace. She needed to warn her. Though she assumed the Grey watching her, were already aware too now, and as such, could ensure her safety. Maybe whomever they sent, could ask her some more questions too.

Right now though, she had to figure out how to deal with this issue, before Sandy would end up stabbing her in her sleep. Though she doubted it would end up being that direct. If Sandy had sold Peace off to the gang, it spoke of her not wanting to get hooves on this herself. Likely couldn't stomach it. She'd make someone else handle it, if it wasn't dealt with soon. As in, Yannit had at best two days, in her estimate. After that, whatever Sandy might think of, would have had time to start. Also, that would be around the limit, to where she could stay awake, without it impacting her performance. Because she were definitely not sleeping in this place again now.

She had to find out who that one out there were. And right now, her guess would be the unknown pony, that had followed her with his eyes earlier. Who were either a changeling, or gods forbid, an empath. She had never met one of those, but by all the things she heard, she never wanted to either. Him influencing things, might explain the pegasus too. A lot of hate there. Might be cultivated too.

She'd be back in place in bed, once Sandy returned, eyes closed, and pretending to sleep. Though as mentioned, she weren't sleeping anymore. She were just going to pretend, until the day started. Guess she had a lot of time with her thoughts now...

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

 

(Bling)

Bling's morning routine were fairly standard. She woke up before the casino even opened, and headed to the old theater with Bruce. Due to his insistence on keeping her safe, she had made sure that she were resting in a room, with space for more than one bed. She had offered that he could just join her in a larger one, to save even more space, since she were used to sleeping with others, but he had declined. It didn't seem appropriate to him. But he had at least agreed to be in the same room. It were soothing for her, honestly, since she couldn't go rest around her siblings all the time. The times she could, she would though, int he old theater. Might be she had prestige, and access to good suites now, but she still liked their large, family bed. Even if it were not as filled as it once were, and it at times, made them sad.

This night though, she had slept at the hotel, and woke up, then headed for the old theater. Then turn around, once she remember that Gloop had her food delivery run out of the hotel now. A bit of a whoopsie there, heh.

Anyway, she'd go there, and help what she could. Do a few runs of food in the nearby area, say hello t a few friends that way too, and be back in the office about an hour or so later. Lots of time before they opened, and it wasn't like the paperwork had run off since then.

...She really hoped sometimes that it would though... *sigh* She might have others like Ace, that took care of most of it, but she sadly still needed to do some final authorization on a few things here and there. Very boring, but that were what it was, right? At least it was just paperwork. Nothing dangerous, or crazy. Wasn't like Epsilon was gonna show up again.

...Right?

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2022-04-08 at 3:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

But more importantly, we're gonna make sure there's always eyes on mom. Like she said, the foals are coming any day now. Can't leave her alone, when that happens.

Her mother rolled her eyes, "I can take care of myself, don't worry, plus, I've got my neighbors to keep an eye and ear out during the day. Don't let me hold you back."

Arcade nodded, "Alright then, let's go speak with the Consul then, see what he thinks. He'll probably have a good idea at where we should start." He'd get up from the table and move his dishes to the kitchen, her mother would get up too, whispering something in his ear before giving him a quick hug, and saying in a louder tone, "You two stay safe out there."

 

(Void)

They all listened intently to what Void was saying about the town, looking between her and the map as she described things. Just about everything she mentioned was foreign to them, they had never even heard of a carnival before, much less seen one. So they were quick to ask follow up questions as to what everything she described was, they would accept simple answers for those definitions.

Once they got to the end of Void's description, Ardee would look a little sad, "It's too bad we didn't get to see it back then, We only got to see a little of it, between when Mistress brought us out of the facility we grew up in, and when she brought us to the facility your sister found us in. It was already in bad shape then."

Teal spoke up, "Do you think, maybe in a few years, it will be a nice place again?"

 

Whoever was asked next to choose somewhere to ask about would gesture towards Equestria more generally, seeing as it included Las Pegasus according to the map they had been shown, indicating that they had heard the term before, back in the first facility.

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-04-08 at 3:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

We outta look into that later, but frankly, just happy we found ya in one piece. We've been looking for ya."

Vale sighed, looking at the damage she had sustained, "It's... nothing. I can patch myself back up once we get out of this place."

On 2022-04-08 at 3:18 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Anyway, need my help for somethin' here? You're the expert, but I know my fair share of machines.

She shook her head, "Given your track record? Best if you left this thing alone. You might make it dangerous. Well, more than usual. I've already got what I need from it, let's go."

Vale wouldn't wait for them to follow, leading the way out into the hallway, turning West to head in the direction Felicia remembered the control room being.

It wasn't much further, and they were at the closed door to the control room, Vale put the device she had taken from the machine on the card reader, and a moment later the door opened to reveal the hanging Codex harness, sitting just as it had when Felicia had let Panic use it.

"Smart, but I didn't really stand a chance against what 914 could put together now did I?" Panic's voice came over the PA system, "And I see you found your little pets too. I didn't think they had it in them to survive this long. But then again, they might not make it out of here."

"You weren't this talkative before Colonel, what's changed? Now that I'm here, what did you want to show me?"

Panic was silent for a moment, then his voice came only from the local speakers, "Being left in here, I had time to decrypt several hidden files that I don't think you were aware of. Discovered a few things, and finally being free of that limited hardware did expand my capacities. Still, I know I can't leave here, and that I can't remain here. Any hope of this knowledge leaving here is through you."

The harness opened up, and Vale hesitated.

 

(Yannit)

Sandy's emotions stabilized during the night as she slept. The rage was still there, just subdued for the moment by her guilt and sorrow.

She got up with the sunrise the next morning, and would check if Yannit was awake. If Yannit pretended to be asleep, Sandy would leave a note for her saying that she had left to do her guard rotation, and would be back in a few hours. If Yannit did not pretend to be asleep, Sandy would sadly chuckle, "You have a rough night too? I was just about to head to the mess before my guard rotation, you want to come with?"

 

(Bling)

While it wasn't Epsilon, there was one of the Host's butlers that looked exactly like him waiting for her just outside her office, he bowed cordially to her when she arrived, "Bling I take it? The others are expecting you. If you would follow me please? Your guard is free to accompany you if you desire."

Assuming Bling and Bruce did not object, the butler would lead them out of the Top Suits, across the plaza, and into the Stacked Deck. Entering the elevator, the butler would scan a chip he kept on a chain in his vest pocket, setting the elevator into motion, it would continue upward until it stopped just a few floors short of the penthouse, the doors opening to a well decorated, yet subdued, hallway. It had a quiet, well-maintained, dignity to it. The butler led the way to a large pair of doors, where faint murmurs of discussion could be heard from within. The butler opened the door for them to enter.

The room was dimly lit, a long rectangle with the door on the short end. The opposite end had a set of slanted windows that looked down on the central plaza. The Host sat at the far end of the table, looking a bit more serious than he was known for, and more noticeably without the magic that usually surrounded him to make him look extremely handsome, his guard Ninja Briar standing just behind him. The changelings could only get the sensation of darkness from him, and it overshadowed whatever the Host was feeling, so they couldn't get a read on him either. On their right, Fortis and Potens were visible through a large tablet that displayed their image. Given their effect on other creatures, it was probably best that they did not attend in person. On their left, presumably the owner of the Luxure-Æther was a nebulous softly glowing cloud vaguely in the shape of a pony.

The dragons smiled when they saw Bling, "Ah, now we can begin."

The host motioned to the seat set out for her, "Please, take a seat. Have you settled in well enough?"

The cloud spoke, not so much to her, but rather at her, and even then, more she was made aware of the words as they appeared unobtrusively in her head, "We were just discussing what ought to be done about the Trojan presence. Your predecessor invited them in, and now it seems like they intend to take control. What are your thoughts on the matter?"

 

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

"I don't like you being alone like this mom, not..."

A bit ominous perhaps, but she were just paranoid and concerned, about her mothers wellbeing. Especially after the attack yesterday. Frankly she felt more like chaining herself to her mother's side, rather than leaving, but if she insisted... They did need to go and see the Consul regardless. If they just made this quick, and their mother stayed safe, maybe it'd work, but still... Could they be sure she'd be safe? What if there were more attackers coming to town, and they hurt her, as well as her unborn siblings?

She'd mull this over, as she went over with her own plate too, and made sure to wash it off. As her mother gave her goodbye, she'd halt, and awkwardly look around, as if she were assessing something.

"...Don't open up for anyone, unless it's an emergency directly involving you, and stay away from windows. Whatever place you can be out of sight, is probably best. Somewhere with a weapon in reach. You sure it's okay for you to be alone?"

The whole thing with Fheng had made her paranoid, about others coming in, and trying to take a stab at her, by going through her family. Which would frankly, be the best way. Hurt her, and that were, what it were. But hurt those she loved... And especially, when she felt like all of them - minus Arcade - were some she had already failed so many times, she felt guilty about failing them again as it were, and you really got to her.

But that was why she did this, yeah? To make sure those looking to get some payback on her, wouldn't get to them. That was worth it. That was... It was her way of making up for her mistakes. What little she could at least. Maybe do right by the next generation, if nothing else.

If her mother insisted they leave, she'd begrudgingly get a move on, and say they'd be back when they could. Technically, she didn't have a job right now, so wasn't like she had a lot to do. Might be worthwhile picking up her craft again though, at least for a time. Just so she could scrape a few supplies and coins, ready for the future trip.

 

(Void)

"The world has changed a lot. The creatures that's left too. I don't know if it will be exactly like it was back then, but I have hopes that it will be someplace like it, if not better. I don't know if a few years will be enough, but whenever it is time, I'd like it, if we could all go there. I think it would be a nice, family trip."

Void didn't even think as she said this. It just got blurted out. The visual that followed were rather nice though. The lot of them going down a sunny street, full of wondrous attractions, as far as the eyes could see, enticing and bringing smiles to everyone around. Void had seen those sorts of things before, but always at a distance. Null and her had tried to get close once, but then their curse... *sigh* It made everything so very complicated. Least now if they had the chance, that burden would be lifted from their shoulders.

If there were nothing else (or after she had answered that) she'd go on to speak about the rest of Equestria, as a general whole. She hadn't been in much of it, but she would give the story as it were. About how the nation had presumably  gotten started, the nation's rulers, Discord, and a foal friendly version, of the conflict between Troy and Equestria. From both perspectives, as neither Troy, nor Equestria, had exactly the right one. The truth laid somewhere in the middle, but she weren't sure where, exactly.

She'd then give some examples of the few places she had been, which were mostly talking about Canterlot, then the Everfree Forest, and then Ponyville. Though she did her best to not go into too much details of the ponies that lived there (due to the clone aspect of this, and not wanting to make Ardee feel bad) she did say it had a bunch of well loved heroes. Including their local, alicorn princess. A nice mare, although very curious. Unless they asked into more details on that, she'd try not to elaborate too much. Which included names. And if they did ask, she'd send a glance towards Ardee first, just to see how the young mare were feeling at that time. She didn't want to dig into old wounds like this.

She'd also tell them of how Null and her had gone there, in a last ditch effort to find a new home, and had actually been welcomed. Despite their curse, they had been mostly taken well in, with just some hiccups, as they clashed a bit with some of the locals. But they weren't chased out of town, and that was important to her.

And if they asked how the two of them had gotten back to Troy, Void would just answer *Not by choice*, and let that be enough of an answer. She didn't want to go into details about this, if she could help it.

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"It's... nothing. I can patch myself back up once we get out of this place."

"I'm used to dealing with faux fur. The same thing I coat Carmen in. If you ain't interested, I get it, but if you need the hoof, I'll happily help."

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She shook her head, "Given your track record? Best if you left this thing alone. You might make it dangerous. Well, more than usual. I've already got what I need from it, let's go."

"In my defense, the real dangerous stuff, doesn't tend to happen when I tinker with another one's mess. It's mostly the stuff I go with from scratch. And even then, it's rare. I ain't a hack, y'know. Accidents just sorta happens. But whate- Hey! Hol' up."

She had started to move on while he talked (rude!), so he had to cut this short, and go follow her, like Felicia did. Seeing how Vale seemed to know what she were doing, logic dictated it were best to follow her along, and then approach things in the manner she best saw fit. This were more her territory, than Felicia's, or Molotov's. The latter of whom had never been here before, and the former who had, but royally messed up in the process.

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Smart, but I didn't really stand a chance against what 914 could put together now did I?" Panic's voice came over the PA system, "And I see you found your little pets too. I didn't think they had it in them to survive this long. But then again, they might not make it out of here."

"You weren't this talkative before Colonel, what's changed? Now that I'm here, what did you want to show me?"

Panic was silent for a moment, then his voice came only from the local speakers, "Being left in here, I had time to decrypt several hidden files that I don't think you were aware of. Discovered a few things, and finally being free of that limited hardware did expand my capacities. Still, I know I can't leave here, and that I can't remain here. Any hope of this knowledge leaving here is through you."

The harness opened up, and Vale hesitated.

"Noooope nope. Nope. Bad idea. You don't know what sorta trap this could be. He could be wanting to take over your mind, and leave this place in your suit. He said it himself, he can't leave. So what's to stop him making some bogus claims 'bout having found some files, to lure you in? Ain't even any details now. Sounds a bit suspect.

I could just salvage some parts. Make a box that could take in the information, so you can verify it safely. Or I could rig something up, so we could connect Felicia. I know how to shut her chassis down, if it came to it, and I made sure she got backed up before we went here. You aren't backed up. If you gets taken over, that's it. You're gone. I ain't sure how to overwrite you, if that's even possible."

"ℙ𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝕧𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕝: 𝕌𝕟𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕. 𝕎𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕝𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕤, 𝕕𝕖𝕡𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕟 ℝ𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕍𝕒𝕝𝕖'𝕤 𝕖𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖.""

She'd do it, if there were no other choices, but she wouldn't want to ideally. Not just because being taken over sounded rough, and would be a long term step back for her. But also because she had quite the amount of things on her harddrive. All of the Center Zero research in act, that were not locked down, away from prying eyes. Which meant nothing of the most abhorrent, though the baseline designs used for most of those things, were in her database. It would be unfortunate, were even a some of this, to fall into the wrong hooves.

 

(Yannit)

"Slept as well as expected, I guess.

I'll come along. A walk might help wake me up more, but the guard shift... I'll think about it. I'm not sure if I won't just end up being a liability right now."

*yawn* Time for a stretch, and to get on with this day then. Had to come some answers out of it, or she swore, she'd be flaying someone. She didn't like not sleeping. It were annoying at first, then draining later on. She managed well so far, and would for the next day, but after that, she'd end up eventually getting sloppy.

Meanwhile, elsewhere, the two others would be readying themselves for the cleaner job. They got a fine look down, which were fairly undescriptive, and they had gotten some help from some of the others in the hive, to get some credentials made, in case it were needed. Probably wouldn't, but just in case, having some ID ready, would be good. And in these times, it wasn't hard to get along with that. Just had to put them down as refugees from outside, gotten to town recently, and looking for work, then take it from there.

If there were a practical test, they were ready for it too. Even blood. For once it would come in handy, how Mongoose had handled himself back in the day.

Soon as the embassy were opened for the day, they'd make their way there, with one of the posters in hoof.

 

(Bling)

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

While it wasn't Epsilon, there was one of the Host's butlers that looked exactly like him waiting for her just outside her office, he bowed cordially to her when she arrived, "Bling I take it? The others are expecting you. If you would follow me please? Your guard is free to accompany you if you desire."

"She does not go alone."

"You heard him, hehe. Show the way please."

This was not a good start to the day. She had hoped this sort were in the evening perhaps, but sadly, no such luck. *sigh* Best to just get it over with, right? Nice smile, straighten her neck, and then just follow along, and hope she got through it well. Good she already ate at least. Had to look on the bright sides.

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The room was dimly lit, a long rectangle with the door on the short end. The opposite end had a set of slanted windows that looked down on the central plaza. The Host sat at the far end of the table, looking a bit more serious than he was known for, and more noticeably without the magic that usually surrounded him to make him look extremely handsome, his guard Ninja Briar standing just behind him. The changelings could only get the sensation of darkness from him, and it overshadowed whatever the Host was feeling, so they couldn't get a read on him either. On their right, Fortis and Potens were visible through a large tablet that displayed their image. Given their effect on other creatures, it was probably best that they did not attend in person. On their left, presumably the owner of the Luxure-Æther was a nebulous softly glowing cloud vaguely in the shape of a pony.

Well... The walk was kinda nice. And that was about where the good points ended, because looking at the ones in this room? Ooooh boy. This were gonna be... Interesting.

For once, she had never seen The Host like this. Honestly, she couldn't really remember a lot of interactions with him in general, if any at all, but you couldn't help but know The Host, when you lived in this town. Even glances at a distance, technically counted in her mind. And up close, or long off, she had definitely never seen him this way. Kind of intimidating this way. She could see why he glamoured up normally. He also didn't seem drunk, so that was a new one.

His escort... Time spent away from ninja, were time well spent. Let it be put that that. She didn't like how it felt to be around him. Nor did most of whom she knew, so they did theirs, to not cause issues that'd draw his attention. A tradition she were not wanting to break.

Fortis and Potens were a much nicer sight. And not in person either, so their effects wouldn't be an issue. She tended to be fine, long as the encounter lasted less than a half hour. After that she started to feel a little uhm... Obsessive, she supposed were a good phrase. She had to take a few cold showers after that, to get herself under control again.

The last one... She'd never seen before. Bling could assume whom it were though, but this were the first encounter she could recall, having with the esteemed owner, of the Luxure-Æther. She had heard rumors, but she'd admit, that she were thinking it was just jokes, to mess with her. Seems she owed a few dozen changelings an apology.

She were really in strange company right now, but guess she should just take her seat, and try to not feel as small and unimportant, as she were, next to these old, ingrained powers.

On 2022-04-10 at 5:47 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The dragons smiled when they saw Bling, "Ah, now we can begin."

The host motioned to the seat set out for her, "Please, take a seat. Have you settled in well enough?"

The cloud spoke, not so much to her, but rather at her, and even then, more she was made aware of the words as they appeared unobtrusively in her head, "We were just discussing what ought to be done about the Trojan presence. Your predecessor invited them in, and now it seems like they intend to take control. What are your thoughts on the matter?"

"Nice seeing you all. And things are going well. Thankfully, I have a lot of experienced workers I can rely on, to make things run smoothly."

She'd pause some, as the cloud began *speaking* to her. It reminded her of a rather eerie changeling she had met, before the crisis. Utterly harmless, but the way of *speaking* were weird. Took a bit getting used to again, she'd recon.

"Well, I met with the first bunch that came into town, before Mr. House's unfortunate passing. The ones I met, seemed nice, but I haven't had a lot to do with the ones who've come in later. Things have been pretty busy with the hive, after the gang war broke out.

Honestly though? I am not too worried. I mean, with The Grey going rogue again, we don't have a lot of open guards to go with, so we could use the guard presence, right? And it would be good if we could have open talks with Troy. I mean, I remember how Las Pegasus used to be. A sprawling town, thriving with tourism. I hope I don't offend anyone, but things aren't as good as they used to be back then, for the overall worth of the city. We'll need to make connections to the outside, now that things are starting to clear up, and Troy's close. They'd have customers. And on a personal note, they might have changelings, that wants a community, and can't get to the Blackwater Quarry. You hopefully know what Hive Cheshire were like, before Mr. House passed away? That haven't changed. I still want us to be open, and welcoming for those who needs it.

But like I said, I don't know a lot about this. I met the ambassador that came in, trying to make connections. I figured the base were to continue that, but if you know something else, then by all means, I'm ready to stand corrected, and perhaps adjust my opinion accordingly."

These were well established powers in town. Via her changelings, she had a wide net in town, but that didn't mean she heard everything. Just things of importance, and she had to be honest, she hadn't listened in on everything recently. Between the casino, and the things Rasputin started, things had been plenty busy, and she had to pick and choose with her time.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2022-04-11 at 4:57 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"...Don't open up for anyone, unless it's an emergency directly involving you, and stay away from windows. Whatever place you can be out of sight, is probably best. Somewhere with a weapon in reach. You sure it's okay for you to be alone?"

Her mother's expression grew more concerned, "You're starting to worry me Null, is everything alright? I've survived this long, remember, through the war and the crisis. I've got the neighbors watching out for me, and your father comes round to check on me as often as he can, you don't need to worry about me."

 

(Void)

They were a bit disappointed by Void's somewhat less than optimistic answer, but they were content with it as they turned their attention back to the map in preparation for Void's next lesson.

Void was only able to speak on the more ancient rivalry between Troy and Equestria, as she had not been present for the events of the Summer War, having been on ice in the facility for that period, and had not yet had the chance to learn about it since her reintegration to society.

They listened intently to Voids description of Equestria, not even questioning about the lack of proper names, though once Void got to the end of her times in Equestria they did ask, "What is it like now? Is it still around, like Troy? Or is it more like Las Pegasus?" It seemed they didn't yet have the concept of something being entirely destroyed.

Ardee looked like she had a question as well, though the look was one who hoped they could remember their question for later, clearly she wanted to ask something in private, rather than for everyone to hear.

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-04-11 at 4:57 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"I'm used to dealing with faux fur. The same thing I coat Carmen in. If you ain't interested, I get it, but if you need the hoof, I'll happily help."

She looked a little annoyed at that comment, but didn't comment on it more than shaking her head, "I'll be fine."

On 2022-04-11 at 4:57 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Noooope nope. Nope. Bad idea. You don't know what sorta trap this could be. He could be wanting to take over your mind, and leave this place in your suit. He said it himself, he can't leave. So what's to stop him making some bogus claims 'bout having found some files, to lure you in? Ain't even any details now. Sounds a bit suspect.

I could just salvage some parts. Make a box that could take in the information, so you can verify it safely. Or I could rig something up, so we could connect Felicia. I know how to shut her chassis down, if it came to it, and I made sure she got backed up before we went here. You aren't backed up. If you gets taken over, that's it. You're gone. I ain't sure how to overwrite you, if that's even possible."

"ℙ𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕒𝕝𝕝𝕪 𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝕧𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕖𝕝: 𝕌𝕟𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕. 𝕎𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕒𝕣 𝕒𝕝𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕟𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕤, 𝕕𝕖𝕡𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕟 ℝ𝕖𝕤𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕖𝕣 𝕍𝕒𝕝𝕖'𝕤 𝕖𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖.""

Vale's frustration grew with Molotov's comments on the situation, combined with his earlier comments, "My suit?" She turned towards Molotov, the anger apparent in her real eye, "I'm not one of your rotten creations." She stamped the floor to punctuate that, but given the rubber nubs on her hooves, it didn't have nearly as much effect as she would have wanted. "I'm not some marvel of engineering to be reverse engineered, not some toy to be ogled or gawked at. I'm not something broken that needs fixing. I am a real living Doe with a BODY  not some automaton in a rotting SKIN SUIT! "

It seemed she really resented being compared to Molotov's creations, but Molotov did not have enough background on Vale to know exactly why she felt the way she did.

That said, she marched over to the harness and started climbing in, a practiced motion that showed off her familiarity with it, and flexibility, but before she donned the helmet she slipped the device she had used to open the door between the contact plates in her forehead and the contacts in the helmet, "Besides, you think I didn't think of that? Panic tries anything, this whole facility gets destroyed."

She then secured the helmet, completing her re-integration into Codex.

The lights flickered in the room, Vale lay still in the harness, then the harness itself moved, lifting up from the ground. A voice spoke form the PA system, this time more feminine, "Codex... online. Automated containment protocols... engaged. All research personnel, please remain in secure areas until all escaped specimens are re-contained. Analysis... Complete. Structural damage to exterior vents caused by alpha warhead detonations. Facility must be secured against unauthorized egress and access. Eight mobile anomolies have breached containment, Three are missing, One deceased, Deploying measures for containing remaining four anomolies."

They would be able to hear movement in the hallway through the closed door, it sounded similar to the golem that Panic had escaped in, only more of them.

"Facility will be secure in... 6 hours. Rouge entity detected in mainframe, analyzing. Rouge entity identified as C-079, operating in violation of containment parameters. Status... successfully sequestered on removable media. New data files detected, project file: Prototype VIP, analyzing." 

 

(Changelings)

Sandy shook her head at Yannit's partial offer to go on the guard rotation, "Out of the question, you need to be at full strength before you go out there again, they might try and capture you again, or worse..." There was some genuine worry there.

The scene in the mess was similar to the previous evening, just with different food and the lack of the two ponies of note, allowing them to eat in peace until Sandy needed to head off on her rotation, "Rest up, but also... maybe get some paperwork done if you feel like it?"

 

The other two would be greeted at the door of the embassy, and let in after a magical scan to see if they were carrying any weapons. Luckily the Grey cloak would hide what they were and whatever they chose to carry underneath. They'd be able to present the flyer to the pegasus at the front desk, who would look at it in surprise, "I was starting to give up hope that someone would respond, figured not too many of them got out. But you're also in luck, the one in charge of hiring just got back in, you two wait here, and I'll see if she's available to interview you."

 

Yannit would be approached wherever she ended up after the mess by the pegasus stallion from the front desk, "Hey there Peace, how you feeling today? Got a pair of new ponies looking to respond to your ad, you up to interview them? Or should I tell them to come back later?"

 

(Bling)

The other leaders listened with a surprising amount of respect to what Bling had to say about the situation, nodding to themselves at her points.

Fortis spoke up, "It's true that we were forced to take a more active hand to keep this city stable during the crisis and since then, but even then it was mostly the Grey doing the heavy lifting."

Potens continued, "Now that the Grey is back to operating from the shadows, we will need some sort of lawful presence to keep the peace."

The Host responded, "If Troy were willing to send guards to help us keep the peace, that would be acceptable. However, an armed military presence is not what we agreed to."

The cloud 'spoke' next, "More information is needed, we need to discover the Trojan's intentions, and temper them, if we are to remain a free city."

Everyone turned towards Bling, the Host speaking, "You are in a unique situation, your network has a strong connection to the common creatures of the city, and ultimately the Trojans are in your district. I think it best if you were to meet with them personally, asses their goals, and report back next week as to whether they should be cooperated with or expelled."

After Bling had a chance to respond, the topics of discussion would turn to the more monotonous responsibilities of running a city, like repairs to the roads, the exchange rates of the various currencies, managing civil services, etc. It seemed like the main heads of the city worked well with each other, none of them really, at least during this meeting, trying to gain advantage over the others. There was strong cooperation among them, as if they knew they couldn't run the city alone.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

"Yeah, I'm fine. I'm just getting paranoid again, I guess. We'll be back later."

What was she going to say?

*Oh yeah, last night right? Some griffon I killed years ago, and escaped Tartarus, tried to kill me. And Void. I judged her, and she can't hurt you, but I don't know if there are others that might come in and gut you, once I'm leaving, because they'd hurt you, to get to me. Who? Long list, I've killed a lot of creatures, and several more haven't died, but really want me dead. Who knows who's still alive, and ready to pounce?*

Yeah... Fat chance that'd ever happen. She didn't want to make her mother worry that much. She already seemed like it were concerning her, what Null was going to do. But if she stayed now, her mother would definitely know something was off, and would question her. And she didn't want to lie straight into the face of her parents.

So she'd leave with Arcade, albeit reluctantly. Hopefully she'd be able to get back soon, and it would turn out that she had just been paranoid for no reason. If not...

She'd lead the way with determined steps, though her eyes kept casting glances back towards her mother's home. Up until it was out of sight, unless something happened, which would make her turn around in full and run back. Which likely wouldn't happen, so she could move along with Arcade, and see if she could get a meeting set with the Consul. Something told her, he'd be expecting her though.

 

(Void)

"Equestria is... Well, there were a time, when most would probably say it was gone. It was were the crisis started, and all the towns, and many of those who lived there, are sadly gone.

But I've met some of those, who called it home. I see the fire in their eyes, and hear them talk about Equestria not as a lost fantasy of old, but their home. Long as the fire lives in their hearts, I don't think Equestria is truly gone. As long as it lives on in its citizens, everything else can be rebuild. It'll take time, yet they have their leaders now, and a plan. I really believe that they will reclaim Equestria, and then town by town, build it up again, better than ever before. Though it will probably take years."

Honestly, she had thought at some point, that there were nothing left of Equestria. Just memories, and broken dreams. But then the general had shown up. A figure the Equestrians knew, and could put some faith in, along with one of Celestia's old students. It provided them figureheads to rally around, and from what she had seen, the general at least, seemed to have a plan, for how in time, Equestria would be reclaimed, bit by bit. Likely something that would take more than a decade, to get to full fruition, but she could see why there had been hope among the battered Equestrians again, and why some had followed them back, to where they had come from.

A country were more than stone and mortar. It were its citizens, and long as they held Equestria in their hearts, it would one day rise again. Though hopefully, less corrupt and troublesome this time. The things she had learned... Best to not have repeated. And regarding Ponyville, it would likely never be habitable again, lest it were douses in a severe matter of antimagic. If all the things Null and her had carried around, had gotten active in town... Maybe they had been able to contain it, but if not, it would be a hotspot for the reality warping, horrendous things. And they couldn't stop it anymore. Others had to take up that mantle.

"As for how it is right now, I don't know how it looks now exactly. I promise, I'm not lying to you. I've only heard it's occupied by some... Less than nice things, and creatures. But things should start to thin out eventually now. Though how everything's gonna work out, is something for others to deal with for now. Someday though, I'm sure you'll get to witness a lot of changes happening in the world. Including the rise of a new Equestria."

She noticed Ardee seemed to want to ask something, but she imagined, it was something not meant for other ears. Otherwise, why hold it back? Which meant she had an idea, of what might be the subject of her question. She'd have to find a bit of privacy for them later, so they could discuss this.

 

(Molotov)

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Vale's frustration grew with Molotov's comments on the situation, combined with his earlier comments, "My suit?" She turned towards Molotov, the anger apparent in her real eye, "I'm not one of your rotten creations." She stamped the floor to punctuate that, but given the rubber nubs on her hooves, it didn't have nearly as much effect as she would have wanted. "I'm not some marvel of engineering to be reverse engineered, not some toy to be ogled or gawked at. I'm not something broken that needs fixing. I am a real living Doe with a BODY  not some automaton in a rotting SKIN SUIT! "

Molotov took a few steps back as she went at him, looking genuinely surprised, followed rapidly by remorseful. He hadn't meant to imply she were just some sorta machine, wrapped around some loose meat here and there. If he could just explain himself, maybe-

He opened his muzzle to give a rebuttal, but Felicia stuck a leg in his mouth - the dull side, to avoid giving him a Glasscow Smile - and made him unable to speak proper.

"𝕊𝕙𝕦𝕥. 𝕌𝕡."

She didn't say more, but he got what she meant, and would close his yapper, once she slowly removed her leg from his muzzle. His gaze would go to the side, and his whole stance just reeked of what went through his head right now. Which were basically some scolding, on how he had shoved his own hoof down his gulet again.

Usually, he wore that on his sleeve. A few words coming out wrong, potentially a slap going his way, and then it was moving on. He could shrug most of it off, thinking that he probably deserved that. But this were something he felt genuinely bad about, and weren't sure how best to address this, when the time did get right. But Felicia was right though. it certainly wasn't now. He'd just dig himself a bigger grave if he tried, and he were on thin ice as it were. He shouldn't make it worse right now, and try to think of a time, and a place, to say something proper. Likely best to let her take over things for a bit here.

As for the insult towards Felicia, she didn't take it under consideration, as something inherently cruel. Ponies were emotional creatures, and she had been angry. It seemed a spur of the moment thing, to try and hurl insults at Molotov. Frankly not worth keeping in her grudge folder.

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

That said, she marched over to the harness and started climbing in, a practiced motion that showed off her familiarity with it, and flexibility, but before she donned the helmet she slipped the device she had used to open the door between the contact plates in her forehead and the contacts in the helmet, "Besides, you think I didn't think of that? Panic tries anything, this whole facility gets destroyed."

He'd remain silent, but Felicia did not like the sound of it. Seeing how they were in said facility still, but logically, it did make sense. No need having two of Panic out there, so if it came down to it, it would perhaps be logical to annihilate everything. That being said, she still didn't like to be destroyed, and personally, she'd like to remain alive, and able to do something, rather than go down in a blaze.

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

The lights flickered in the room, Vale lay still in the harness, then the harness itself moved, lifting up from the ground. A voice spoke form the PA system, this time more feminine, "Codex... online. Automated containment protocols... engaged. All research personnel, please remain in secure areas until all escaped specimens are re-contained. Analysis... Complete. Structural damage to exterior vents caused by alpha warhead detonations. Facility must be secured against unauthorized egress and access. Eight mobile anomolies have breached containment, Three are missing, One deceased, Deploying measures for containing remaining four anomolies."

They would be able to hear movement in the hallway through the closed door, it sounded similar to the golem that Panic had escaped in, only more of them.

"Facility will be secure in... 6 hours. Rouge entity detected in mainframe, analyzing. Rouge entity identified as C-079, operating in violation of containment parameters. Status... successfully sequestered on removable media. New data files detected, project file: Prototype VIP, analyzing." 

So there seemed to be some issues to address then. Codex - or Vale, interfacing with Codex. Felicia wasn't sure of the exact details currently - had control, and seemed to not be overtaken. So they wouldn't be destroyed. That were a good start. She also seemed to have control over the local enforcement units, and were using them to put certain anomalies back in containment. Also a fine thing. As were it, that there seemingly were indeed, a file of information for her to access.

Yet that is where the good news stopped though, as it were mentioned, that three anomalies were unaccounted for. With Panic being likely one of them, that left two others, who could well have escaped. And considering what were in this place, that were likely not a good thing, at all. ¨They would have to find out what they were, and then find a solution for that soon, before they may end up attacking a populated area. There had been enough damage done as it were, without this adding on to it.

"𝕀𝕟𝕢𝕦𝕚𝕣𝕪: 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕞𝕚𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕠𝕟𝕖𝕤, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕥 𝕝𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕤 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪? 𝕀𝕟 𝕔𝕒𝕤𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕡𝕝𝕖𝕥𝕖 𝕓𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕔𝕙, 𝕕𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕟𝕖𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕒𝕥𝕖 𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕕𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘?"

 

(Changelings)

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Sandy shook her head at Yannit's partial offer to go on the guard rotation, "Out of the question, you need to be at full strength before you go out there again, they might try and capture you again, or worse..." There was some genuine worry there.

The scene in the mess was similar to the previous evening, just with different food and the lack of the two ponies of note, allowing them to eat in peace until Sandy needed to head off on her rotation, "Rest up, but also... maybe get some paperwork done if you feel like it?"

"Y-Yes. The less chance of that happening again, the better. I guess desk duty doesn't so bad right now."

Further isolation here on base, making her need to hurry up even further. Annoying, but it made logical sense. It were best to not have Peace lost to one of the gangs again, and technically, The Grey could see and hear what she did. They wouldn't have need of her personally, to go and speak with the mare.

There were some good in hearing Sandy say this too. She seemed able to still think of Peace's well being, so whilst influenced, she still had some measure of self control. Might be then, that they could get her wrung from his grasp. Whomever that *local recruit* actually were, he might not have the full grasp needed, to make Sandy just do anything, without hesitation. That could end up being useful, in due time.

Regarding the recruit... Didn't seem like he were here now. And neither were his seething little side kick. Probably out doing guard duty. Or pretending to do so. Frankly, she didn't trust either of them, at this point in the investigation.

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

The other two would be greeted at the door of the embassy, and let in after a magical scan to see if they were carrying any weapons. Luckily the Grey cloak would hide what they were and whatever they chose to carry underneath. They'd be able to present the flyer to the pegasus at the front desk, who would look at it in surprise, "I was starting to give up hope that someone would respond, figured not too many of them got out. But you're also in luck, the one in charge of hiring just got back in, you two wait here, and I'll see if she's available to interview you."

The only weapons that Mongoose and Craven would carry, were the daggers, that The Grey had given to them. Secured under the cloak, though frankly, Craven had almost taken Mongoose's a few hours before. He had a little nervous fit, over the role they were going to play, and had started to draw it, whilst looking disturbingly intent on the blade. Honestly creeped Craven out, but Mongoose had put it away again eventually. For the better, so he didn't have to be restrained,, before he did something drastic.

Beyond that, all they had with them, were some cleaning stuff. They had gone to Bling and said that they were going to try working as cleaners, but needed a few minor things to start, so she had given them the bare necessities that they needed. They had a great deal in stock after all, and she were thrilled that they had something to do. Though she did ask that he kept a very close eye, on Mongoose. For his own sake, as she had put it. A bleeding heart to the end that mare, but far be it from either of them, to say a bad word about the future queen of New Las Pegasus. They had needed help, and she had done so. And it wasn't even by lying. They were going in as cleaners, after all.

As they were scanned, Mongoose pulled out a fresh strip of gum, and started to chew down on that. If they wanted to examine that, they'd find it were Raspberry flavor, and he had a few more on him. Random tastes all of them. He generally just went with whatever brand, and taste, that were the closest, when he went out to get new supplies.

Craven would afterwards, thank the receptionist, as she went to fetch whomever were in control of hiring here, and then stood along and waited, with Mongoose. Or rather, Bleach stood and waited, along with Stain Cleaner. Had to get some aliases going, to not be too obvious.

On 2022-04-14 at 9:49 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Yannit would be approached wherever she ended up after the mess by the pegasus stallion from the front desk, "Hey there Peace, how you feeling today? Got a pair of new ponies looking to respond to your ad, you up to interview them? Or should I tell them to come back later?"

Yannit had wandered back towards the room, wondering if there were perhaps some clues she could find there, when she were interrupted. For once, by a good message too. Her idiots had seemingly arrived, and she were in charge of hiring, apparently. Should make it fairly easy then.

"I can deal with that. Just a little interview, right? Shouldn't be too taxing. I'll go deal with them."

Which she would. She would go and find them, then play all nice and pleased to see them when she did get them in sight. Afterwards, she'd direct them to a private room to have a bit of a chat. Regular tone for general questions about experience, origins, what the job entailed, etc. A lower, near whisper, to tell them what had happened, and get updated on what they had been doing thus far. Unless there were others present, of course. Then she'd keep the low ons to herself for now.

Once the preliminaries were done, she'd take them towards the laundry room. They had to prove themselves here, yeah? So she set them to clean properly, a full outfit, whilst she observed. She figured it would end up acceptable enough, and she could just hire them on, but they put in surprising effort. Whatever metal, leather and such were present, were handled well by Craven, and Mongoose showed an actual aptitude for dealing with fabric. Including using a mixture to get blood out of every nook and cranny, and between the threads of the fabric. Took some effort too of course, but he'd be able to present something potentially faded - depended on the state before he began - yet spotless, eventually. Seemed like it calmed him down some too, to work like this. Kept his mind away from... Other activities.

 

(Bling)

"That should be easy enough. I've been told that someone called Peace, were talking about having a chat with me. I'll reach out, bring along some more attuned changelings, and see what's false, and what's true."

Peace hadn't directly told her anything, but she didn't have to either, really. It had been mentioned somewhere, that another had overheard it, and the changeling who did, figured it were something important to bring back. Might've been an accident. Might've been spying. She didn't ask, since she knew a fair few did the spying as more of a recreational thing. She rarely asked it of anyone, but she knew some of the drones had been used to it from the olden times, and it was comforting for them to do it. Even if they rarely learned anything of value, as they'd sneak around uninteresting, random targets.

Then again, there were those who did spy around those of interest, and sold off the secrets. Like Nightingale. Sure the young changeling thought she were all sorts of sneaky, but Bling wasn't dumb. She'd seen and heard a few things, and connected the dots. Frankly though, she didn't care. Let her try and get what she wanted out of life. No need to take her aspirations away from her, long as it did not harm the hive. That is where she would put her hoof down.

"Though just in case something turns out to be urgently wrong, and it can't wait until next week... What should I do then? I know it's my district - still weird to think that - but I've never been part of something like that. Could I just have them all go to sleep, and send them back to Troy on a cart? I'm pretty sure if we start to do a lot of harm to them, Troy won't like it, and they have Consul Easle. If he could defeat Discord, I don't think he'd have issues with us, if his guards start to vanish.

Sorry if I'm overthinking things. Just y'know... It feels like this could escalate, and Hive Cheshire have always done ours, to stay out of direct conflicts. So I'm not sure if there's a protocol, or it's up to my own discretion."

After this would inevitably be sorted, things would turn dull. Surprisingly, she didn't mind that at all. Considering the chats before, she were worried this were a bit crazy, but it were just standard political stuff, really. The repairs and such, were something she were especially interested in, as she may have her own projects running, but she were sure there could be diverted some, to make sure her own duties were done well too. And holes in the road especially, could likely be done the changeling way, rather quickly.

That being, a mixture of stone and changeling bile into the hole, wait for it to harden, and then cover it over, to hide the color. They did the same with the old theater back in the day, and generally in hives, to improve the structural integrity. Was a bit nasty to look at for outsiders, but it were effective, long as you didn't mind the looks of it. Though sure, they could run with regular repairs too. She just figured it might not be bad to think about how to do things in other ways, though she wasn't sharing it. Just thinking for now.

The rest of the stuff, she'd chip in with her own thoughts here and there, but shed probably learn more, than take control over things here. They had things run for a long time, before she came along, and she had been plunged into this, out of nowhere. Learning from the experts, would be greatly beneficial, before her pat of town, would start to go into disrepair, and become a blight upon the town.