private Deep Science 1x1 with Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

(You didn't respond on this part)

 

(Null)

The Spartratian stopped the exercise after about an hour, and had Ardee go find some shade to rest in while she talked to Null.

22 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"So, what're your thoughts? Looks to me like you've got more to work with here, than you did with me. Least with the wings."

"Indeed. She has the fire of Spartrot in her, even more so than you, but her trauma holds her back. Unfortunately, the mental battle is not one I can help her fight. Still, tomorrow we will start her training with blades. If you can have some ready for her that would be preferred, but I can find some training blades if you can't have some real ones ready. Come early, it would be best to start before the sun rises."

That said she'd go over to where Ardee was resting and say something quietly to her, before flying off. When Ardee came back over to the others there was a faint smile on her face, despite how tired she was by the training she carried herself with an extra bit of confidence. "That... was fun... well, more fun than I thought it would be. So, what's next? You mentioned something about wing blades?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

On 2022-10-06 at 10:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Indeed. She has the fire of Spartrot in her, even more so than you, but her trauma holds her back. Unfortunately, the mental battle is not one I can help her fight. Still, tomorrow we will start her training with blades. If you can have some ready for her that would be preferred, but I can find some training blades if you can't have some real ones ready. Come early, it would be best to start before the sun rises."

"We'll work on getting her some wing blades, and a long knife ready for tomorrow. Unless something goes wrong, it won't be an issue.

See you tomorrow ma'am."

Null would nod to the mare, or salute, if that had been how she preferred it, when they trained. Depended on the kind of respect she expected. Which were not something she gave to a lot, but this one deserved it, and by her presence, more or less demanded it. She were rather intimidating when she wanted to be.

On 2022-10-06 at 10:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

That said she'd go over to where Ardee was resting and say something quietly to her, before flying off. When Ardee came back over to the others there was a faint smile on her face, despite how tired she was by the training she carried herself with an extra bit of confidence. "That... was fun... well, more fun than I thought it would be. So, what's next? You mentioned something about wing blades?"

Null would wait until they were done talking. Might be something private after all.

"Yeah. We'll have to go back to Void's and I's workshop for that. We need to get some measurements, and they need to be exact, if we're to have them ready by tomorrow. Better get going."

She'd lead them towards the workshop, which Arcade had seen, but this should be the first time, that Ardee had a look. Far as she knew it were at least.

It was not impressive on the inside. Some boxes of materials, shelves of a few pieces, unfinished projects, things such as that. The main things were all packed away safely, to avoid trouble with burglars, stealing a knife or something, for instance. So she mostly just had what she needed out for now. That and a small carved out phoenix bird. A little decoration, from a piece of wood not really worth a whole lot else, due to a large gap going down the small thing. Still, she had found it a nice little thing to have around, when she had free time every now and again. Felt like that were a while ago at this point...

"Alright then. I'm gonna need you to spread your wings, and then let me do the measurements without twitching around. The more accurate I get them now, the better chance we don't need to reforge anything.

We're also gonna look into that long knife I told you about yesterday. Are you a hoof swinger, or a mouth swinger? I'll need to know for the handle. Different grips needed.

Might as well have you pose after that, for your archery position. Ain't gonna be able to get you a bow tomorrow, but I'll see if maybe the day after that or something, I can have something done. I should have some proper materials around for that. Might need some string, but that's probably about it."

She'd pull out the tape measure, notebook, and pen, and looked at Ardee. She were probably not gonna like this huge attention on her wings, but ergh... At least she knew it were for something beneficial to her, so she'd probably be alright.

She'd chat a bit, whilst dotting the details down though. Something to pass the time, and ease Ardee up a bit, if it tensioned her.

"So are you ready for the next week or so then? Might be a bit more, might be a bit less. I haven't gotten all details yet, but it ain't so long that we're gonna have time to ease you into things. So you gotta brace yourself for some intense training, alright? Both when we're with her, and outside of it, when we're doing exercises. Wouldn't be bad if you joined in on at least the last one too, Arcade. It'd be nice having a group for it, and we can do some sparring at times."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

The remaining ponies looked comforted by the news that Void and Vale weren't going anywhere, and their worry soon turned to excitement as they considered the implications of meeting new creatures.

Vale recovered their attention, directing them to another learning task, which looked to be a deeper dive into the creatures living in Troy, specifically on diamond dogs, changelings, and dragons.

Before Vale could get started, there was a knock at the door, which was Selena again, she motioned for Void to come over, "I'm glad you're here, that makes things more convenient, the new teachers are ready to meet with you, when you have a moment, to get to know them and figure out the best way to go about introducing them to the foals, though I see Vale has already gotten started on that front. If you have some time now, they're right outside at the moment, otherwise I can have them meet you here later?"

 

When Void would go to meet them, regardless of the specific time, she would be introduced to three teachers:

A female diamond dog named Gypsum who would be in charge of teaching them social studies, history, and how to interact with others outside of their group.

A changeling named Lyft who would be in charge of their medical checkups, as well as teaching them about how to stay healthy.

And the dragon that Void had already met, who would teach them about plants and local wildlife on excursions outside the city itself, given she could not easily fit in the room they were presently in.

 

(Null)

21 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Alright then. I'm gonna need you to spread your wings, and then let me do the measurements without twitching around. The more accurate I get them now, the better chance we don't need to reforge anything.

Ardee was especially good at keeping her wings still for the measurements, though it was clear she was suppressing some unpleasant memories as Null went about it.

21 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

We're also gonna look into that long knife I told you about yesterday. Are you a hoof swinger, or a mouth swinger? I'll need to know for the handle. Different grips needed.

She thought about that for a bit, "Um, maybe both? I mean, I've done both, but I think the knife I had was meant for a diamond dog, so it didn't work too well either way. Maybe we could try with both and see what I'm better with?"

21 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Might as well have you pose after that, for your archery position. Ain't gonna be able to get you a bow tomorrow, but I'll see if maybe the day after that or something, I can have something done. I should have some proper materials around for that. Might need some string, but that's probably about it."

She'd nod at that, and do her best approximation of an archery pose to give Null an idea as to how far she could pull back, if Null had some elastic she could also measure her pull strength to know how stiff a bow she could pull.

21 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"So are you ready for the next week or so then? Might be a bit more, might be a bit less. I haven't gotten all details yet, but it ain't so long that we're gonna have time to ease you into things. So you gotta brace yourself for some intense training, alright? Both when we're with her, and outside of it, when we're doing exercises. Wouldn't be bad if you joined in on at least the last one too, Arcade. It'd be nice having a group for it, and we can do some sparring at times."

She nodded, "It's more time to prepare than we had in the facility, and I survived that, I can survive this." she said gravely, though her tone lightened towards the end, "Besides, she's not trying to kill me."

In regards to Arcade joining, he nodded as well, "I had assumed as much, my skills were equally forges out of desperation, it would be good to get some proper training."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

Void didn't see an issue with going and meet the new teachers. The sooner the better, so she could get a good feel for how they were, after all. Just in case she got bad vibes from any of them.

Of the teachers, the dragon in question were hard to not bite notice in, that much were certain. Large and ocean blue, with lime-green underside scales, she towered above the rest, and would indeed have issues fitting into not just this, but any house in Troy. Not easy to fit in there, when she were twice the height of even the tall doors. She lived though. Thankfully her fascination with botany, were primarily an outdoor possible thing, and when there were rainy weather, she could use her large, leathery wings, to shield her students from the worst of it.

"It's nice to see you again, Opal. Are the teeth still working well?"

"They're doing good, thank you."

She'd go into a smile, showing off the five teeth of hers, that had been replaced with metal. She had thought of getting them painted, but the paint tasted wretched, so she just left it like this. It were a bit charming anyway, so she didn't mind. They and the scars on her jaw though - which looked like small craters in her scales, yet had thankfully not done too much damage to the underlying flesh - gave her a bit of a rough look to some, though she did what she could, to seem approachable, and kind. Which also meant using a name more foal friendly, than her actual one. Not that she minded, honestly. She were never a fan of what she had been called. Always sounded so... Violent. Really not suitable for teaching. Not that Bone Cruncher really cared much about that, but they'd meet him some other day. Not like the young ones could avoid gymnastics forever.

"It's good they're fitting well. And that you're one of the teachers. They've never met a dragon before though, so I'm sorry if they'll seem a little antsy at first, perhaps. I am not sure how they'll react."

"It's fine. I've seen a bit of everything in my time."

"That's good. Good good.

So uhm, c-can I ask about you two then? I'd like to know who their teachers are. I know Opal, but I'm afraid I don't think I've run into either of you before. If I have, I'm sorry for forgetting. Things have been a little hectic lately."

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-09 at 10:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She thought about that for a bit, "Um, maybe both? I mean, I've done both, but I think the knife I had was meant for a diamond dog, so it didn't work too well either way. Maybe we could try with both and see what I'm better with?"

"I got a few knives laying about. We can see what comes of that then, when we're done with the measurements."

On 2022-10-09 at 10:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She'd nod at that, and do her best approximation of an archery pose to give Null an idea as to how far she could pull back, if Null had some elastic she could also measure her pull strength to know how stiff a bow she could pull.

She did indeed have some elastic stuff around. Elastic cables, but they were thin, and should do well enough. A scavenged thing she had found out in the desert, during training, and had been using to wrap up some steel pipes. No biggie just taking one of them, and use for this test, as well as wing height when she'd string the invisible bow. It'd help to judge the height she had to work with. Which were something she also dotted down. The more info for this, the better.

On 2022-10-09 at 10:34 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She nodded, "It's more time to prepare than we had in the facility, and I survived that, I can survive this." she said gravely, though her tone lightened towards the end, "Besides, she's not trying to kill me."

In regards to Arcade joining, he nodded as well, "I had assumed as much, my skills were equally forges out of desperation, it would be good to get some proper training."

"She won't kill you alright. But she'll be tough. Especially now that she knows the time limit. So you better steel yourselves. I'm doing it already."

Null would go over and rummage through a crate, and pulled out a few knives. Not in good conditions though. One had dents, and were obviously dull, while the other were broken halfway. Salvaged stuff once more, yet these were just here, to be used for reforging. Metal could be hard coming by sometimes, so smart beings, would approach things like a scavenger, if they wanted to have access to proper materials. A little grim, for some, but eh. Least most of the corpses they had taken these from, had been skeletons, or mummified. And they had burned them, to give some semblance of a proper burial to them, so they had *paid* for these, fair and square.

"Alright. The dull one is a hoof blade, and the cracked one is a mouth blade. Try 'em both, and swing around a little. And be honest, when it comes to how the motions feel. The more honest, the better.

And while you do that, there's a certain someone else here, who frankly outta be thinking about weaponry too. So Arcade. Got any experience? Or do you wanna try something? We got a bit of this, and a bit of that. Knifes, daggers, tridents, naginata, spear, a bag of shurikens... That last one were a weird find, but eh. Finder's keepers.

Not all of thse things are in great condition, but things can be reforged. The feel is the important part. I for one, are gonna need to get to work, getting a knife belt, and a new blowdart set, when there's time for it."

 

Edited October 14, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

(I meant for Void to meet the teachers by herself, not introduce the foals to them yet, she hasn't had the chance to vet them yet after all.)

 

(Null)

Ardee tried both of the knives that she had been offered, giving them a few practice swings each, "Oh! Yeah, that's much easier to grip than the other knife was." She set both of the knives down, "I think, since my goal is to keep my distance, that a mouth blade would be a bit close for comfort, so I think I'll stick with the hoof blade."

Arcade, in response to Null's question, would simply pull out and set down the knife he had been carrying since they had first met, "I imagine something like this will do, it's done well enough so far but it is mostly cobbled together at this point. A better one would certainly help."

Arcade's knife was about the length of a gladius, but only sharp on one edge with a stabbing point. It had been repaired quite a few times mostly with scrap metal attached with magic then sharpened. It had worked well enough in the past but it was clearly due for an upgrade.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

(Corrected the previous post)

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

 

(Null)

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee tried both of the knives that she had been offered, giving them a few practice swings each, "Oh! Yeah, that's much easier to grip than the other knife was." She set both of the knives down, "I think, since my goal is to keep my distance, that a mouth blade would be a bit close for comfort, so I think I'll stick with the hoof blade."

"Long hoofblade. Figured as much, from the way you were swinging.

I'll work on a handle, when Void and I agree on the right size for it. Something with a good grip to it."

Null would pick up the knives, and return them to where they came from, then dot down a few more scribbles, into her little book. Plenty of stuff she had to think about here, it seemed. But the more info, the better. And she had a solid enough idea in her head, for a blade that should fit well.

Hmm... Maybe she could check the markets later actually? She hadn't personally managed to scavenge one, but she knew that there were leg mounted harnesses, that could have a blade attached, with a spring mechanic. It's be less cumbersome, and work better with her mobility... She'd need to have a glance. Or worse, she might have to.... Urgh. She might have to find the science dork, and ask him to make one. Or just go with a regular knife. It were just easier to disarm and steal, hence her sudden thought of a springblade of sorts. She'd see how things went.

"Actually, if I could find like a spring harness for a blade, you could have on your leg, would that hold interest? It'd be harder to take from you, though you'd have to train harder."

Depending on the answer, she'd scribble it down. If she were asked what she meant, she'd explain it, then scribble some more things down, regardless of the answer.

On 2022-10-13 at 10:27 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade, in response to Null's question, would simply pull out and set down the knife he had been carrying since they had first met, "I imagine something like this will do, it's done well enough so far but it is mostly cobbled together at this point. A better one would certainly help."

Arcade's knife was about the length of a gladius, but only sharp on one edge with a stabbing point. It had been repaired quite a few times mostly with scrap metal attached with magic then sharpened. It had worked well enough in the past but it was clearly due for an upgrade.

Null would carefully pick up the blade, and examine it closely. Sure she knew he had a weapon, but it wasn't like she had seen him use it proper, so this were her first good look at it.

"...I've seen something like this... Hold on."

She'd go over, and rummage through a box, then pick a few items out. Nothing massive, until she eventually pulled out a gladius. Now, it weren't functional. It had a large crack going down it, so the blade were barely in one piece. One got hit on a wall or something, and it'd splinter. But it should do the trick.

"Yeah, here. I remember this one. It were stuck in the corpse of some nasty looking reptile. Not a dragon, but not sure what else it could've been. I figure though, there's enough metal to work with here... We can make it work. This size about right for you, or do you think it'd be better if it were smaller, or larger? Don't swing it too violently, if you're fixing for a try first. It might break off and hit you in the leg. or worse."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

The other two teachers were initially hesitant around Opal, only really starting to relax when they saw how casually Void spoke with her.

The diamond dog, who had been the most nervous around the dragon, held out a paw for Void to shake, "This one is called Gypsum, and this one is pleased to meet you. Gypsum lived in Deltrot as a pup, moved here when warren collapsed. This one was taught history, and is happy-excited to teach," she sniffed the air, or Void's hoof when she accepted the shake, "The small ponies inside."

The changeling waited until Gypsum was done introducing themselves, and would let Void ask her any questions that she felt necessary, before introducing herself similarly, "I'm Lyft, one of the changelings who stayed behind when the Project left with my queen. I felt my services as a field medic would be better suited here than up there, and I'm glad that my decision has led me to be here."

Selena nodded once they had all been introduced, "So, what do you think? Any questions for them? If you give the go ahead they could start teaching as soon as next week."

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-14 at 2:47 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Actually, if I could find like a spring harness for a blade, you could have on your leg, would that hold interest? It'd be harder to take from you, though you'd have to train harder."

She raised an eyebrow at that, "Well, that does sound interesting. I wouldn't mind trying that, if it's not too much trouble."

On 2022-10-14 at 2:47 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Yeah, here. I remember this one. It were stuck in the corpse of some nasty looking reptile. Not a dragon, but not sure what else it could've been. I figure though, there's enough metal to work with here... We can make it work. This size about right for you, or do you think it'd be better if it were smaller, or larger? Don't swing it too violently, if you're fixing for a try first. It might break off and hit you in the leg. or worse."

Arcade lifted it carefully with his magic, "I think this is about the right size in regards to length, any heavier and I won't be able to wield it effectively on account of my magical limitations." He pointed at his malformed horn, "I am used to it only being sharp on one side though, I guess it would be worth training with both sides sharp, it seems more useful that way."

Ardee took a seat wherever was available, "So what's next then? You going to make everything here? Or are we going to go to the market and see what we can buy?" She seemed excited by that prospect.

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

4 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The other two teachers were initially hesitant around Opal, only really starting to relax when they saw how casually Void spoke with her.

Opal were used to this sort of thing, so she didn't really outwardly reacted to it, though she did have times, where it made her feel a bit sad. Sure she were big, and unable to fit into the houses, or schools of the town, but that didn't mean that she were violent, or dangerous. She made sure to walk around carefully, as to not stomp on anyone, or hit the things around her, and were nice to those around her. But first impressions from others sadly mattered, and with how war torn things were, concerns were high. So seeing a large dragon, with face damage - even as relatively minor as hers - and some metal teeth, gave a wrong impression.

Maybe after she had a chance to teach a few generations, sentiments would be better. If she stayed here, that were. Maybe with the world slowly getting back to itself again, and Equestria bit by bit being retaken, it might be possible to get the Dragon Isles back. And the new dragon lord - whomever that may end up being - would value education, for the next generation of whelps. If so, she'd have a place she were more needed, though it really depended on who the next leader would be.

Ideally, it would be one of the few remaining elder dragons, with Equestrian ties. Though who that would even be, she didn't know. The best would've been old Gretha, as she were well respected, by both ponies and dragons, as a calming presence. Yet the last she had heard of the dragon, were that she were in the midst of a large fight, her wings severely damaged, and then... She vanished. Along with a sizable group of creatures, and a fair bit of the environment.

Some claim she were dragged through a portal. Others say, that it were some kind of weapon that obliterated her. There were hardly any survivors, and the tales were mostly just second hand at this point, but in either case, no one knew where she were, even if she were alive.

Which for all she knew, left the elusive one, who had thus far, shown no interest in leadership, despite her power definitely entitling her to a grasp at the throne. Yet Le Perinne had always been against standing as the leader of dragons, and kept to herself. If that had not changed, she honestly did not know who were left, of the olden guard, whom the scattered remains of the Equestrian dragons, could look towards. It could be a young one like Ember again, who took the throne, but with how that had ended... It might discourage the others.

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The diamond dog, who had been the most nervous around the dragon, held out a paw for Void to shake, "This one is called Gypsum, and this one is pleased to meet you. Gypsum lived in Deltrot as a pup, moved here when warren collapsed. This one was taught history, and is happy-excited to teach," she sniffed the air, or Void's hoof when she accepted the shake, "The small ponies inside."

"It is nice to meet you, Gypsum. It's good to meet a enthusiastic teacher like yourself.

You should know that, they haven't seen a diamond dog before, far as I know. Or really anyone, that isn't a regular pony, so they might have a lot of questions. Just please bear with them."

Gypsum seemed like a nice diamond dog. A very approachable sort. That were good. It would give the young ponies a good impression of their race. And as she wanted to give a good impression herself, she'd take the offered paw, and give it a shake.

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

The changeling waited until Gypsum was done introducing themselves, and would let Void ask her any questions that she felt necessary, before introducing herself similarly, "I'm Lyft, one of the changelings who stayed behind when the Project left with my queen. I felt my services as a field medic would be better suited here than up there, and I'm glad that my decision has led me to be here."

Void would only have asked of Lyft, that she please be patient with the young ponies, as she'd likely be their first changeling.

"It's nice meeting you too, Lyft. I can tell you that they've gotten a general health checkup, and are thankfully at good health, but just in case, it eases my heart to know, that there's a professional nearby."

Three solid teachers she'd say. Good picks, and offered a variety of races too, that the foals could meet and interact with. An important thing too, as the books they had shown, weren't the same as meeting them in reality.

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Selena nodded once they had all been introduced, "So, what do you think? Any questions for them? If you give the go ahead they could start teaching as soon as next week."

"They all seem like lovely beings, but I do want to ask, what sort of teachers you are? I don't mean to question your credentials. T-That's not what I meant, but I want to hear how strict you might be. They've been through a lot, and I'd rather not that they got pushed too harshly, and I have seen teachers before, who practice a degree of tough love, as they call it."

"Well, you don't have to worry about me like that. If someone's a high degree of a brat, I might blow some smoke on them. Just a puff through the nostril, nothing bad. But it's very rare that I have to do that. I find that most young folks are good, long as you show them a little bit of patience."

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

 

(Null)

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

She raised an eyebrow at that, "Well, that does sound interesting. I wouldn't mind trying that, if it's not too much trouble."

"It depends on how lucky we are. Neither Void, nor I, know how to make those things. If there isn't one that's scavenged in the market, we might have someone to ask, but... Well, that's our headache."

She could probably beat Molotov into doing it, but Void would likely insist to just let her ask him. Considering how enamored she still appeared to be, with her little sister, it'd probably work. Though if he tried something else, Null might still go and crack out a few teeth. She still didn't feel like he were good news, despite how Void seemed to be more receptive to his advances. Her choice of course, but it were hard not being the overprotective big sister anymore.

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade lifted it carefully with his magic, "I think this is about the right size in regards to length, any heavier and I won't be able to wield it effectively on account of my magical limitations." He pointed at his malformed horn, "I am used to it only being sharp on one side though, I guess it would be worth training with both sides sharp, it seems more useful that way."

"Better that it's sharp both sides, so you're not limited by angle.

We can probably have it reforged, and workable in a day or two. Will see if we can make it a bit lighter though, if this here's the limit. Though if you're gonna swing with magic... I did see something recently, down the market, by one of the scavengers. Some bits from a magical weapon. Was before I met you, and I stayed off, since I didn't wanted to go drain it, but if she's still in town, and have at least the hilt... Might be something to make it easier for you to work with. Though you're still gonna have to train using it physically. Trust me. Magic can get cancelled out, a lot easier than you might think."

10 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee took a seat wherever was available, "So what's next then? You going to make everything here? Or are we going to go to the market and see what we can buy?" She seemed excited by that prospect.

Null looked at them both, quietly pondering something. Weighing a few pros and cons, before eventually letting out a miniscule sigh, and nodding.

"We're gonna make the blades and everything here, but there's a few pieces that might be helpful, that we don't have right now. Might as well go check up on the market. But no running off down there, either of you. I don't wanna have to go and hunt for you, and find you've gotten yourself in some sorta trouble."

She'd have to go and take some of the currency they had, in case she had to buy something, but yeah, they could go to the market, and check if there were something there. A few materials for sturdier, comfier handles were good, and perhaps a few things for the road, that'd be useful, in their travels. Probably scavenged bits, that they'd then have to reuse, but that was fine by her. It were more plentiful, and cheaper than buying it fresh. A bit of care, and a good hammer, tended to do well in making it nice and functional again too.

She'd be ready about three minutes after they asked, though before going out, she did give Ardee a knife. One of her own, and not a big one, but it were sharp, and somewhat light. It'd do something, just in case it were needed. Better safe than sorry, and all that jazz.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

On 2022-10-17 at 9:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It is nice to meet you, Gypsum. It's good to meet a enthusiastic teacher like yourself.

You should know that, they haven't seen a diamond dog before, far as I know. Or really anyone, that isn't a regular pony, so they might have a lot of questions. Just please bear with them."

Gypsum nodded, "This one has not taught many ponies before, but if these foals are as curious as pups, this one is prepared to satisfy their curiosity."

On 2022-10-17 at 9:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"It's nice meeting you too, Lyft. I can tell you that they've gotten a general health checkup, and are thankfully at good health, but just in case, it eases my heart to know, that there's a professional nearby."

Lyft smiled at that, "That is a relief, but it will be good to give them regular checkups as they grow, just to make sure that everything progresses properly. There aren't a lot of young creatures left in all of Equestria, as most of them left with the Æther, so we have to be careful with the ones we do have."

On 2022-10-17 at 9:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"They all seem like lovely beings, but I do want to ask, what sort of teachers you are? I don't mean to question your credentials. T-That's not what I meant, but I want to hear how strict you might be. They've been through a lot, and I'd rather not that they got pushed too harshly, and I have seen teachers before, who practice a degree of tough love, as they call it."

Gypsum responded after Opal, "Gypsum has taught many pups with sharper teeth than ponies, and her hide is tough. This one will let the foals decide the pace and topics of learning and play."

Lyft nodded at that, "I suppose I expect a bit more order than the others, but far be it from me to force them to do anything. So long as they behave during their examinations I don't mind rowdiness during learning periods."

 

Selena nodded, "They've already been informed as to their situation, and understand that they won't bring it up unless asked by the foals themselves."

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-17 at 9:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Some bits from a magical weapon. Was before I met you, and I stayed off, since I didn't wanted to go drain it, but if she's still in town, and have at least the hilt... Might be something to make it easier for you to work with. Though you're still gonna have to train using it physically. Trust me. Magic can get cancelled out, a lot easier than you might think.

Arcade looked a little wary of the suggestion, "Well, most of the magical items I've interacted with before have been... less than helpful. But if you think this one would be good, I'm willing to try it. I do have some practice with my knife without my horn too, but it would be good to practice more before we head out."

On 2022-10-17 at 9:21 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"We're gonna make the blades and everything here, but there's a few pieces that might be helpful, that we don't have right now. Might as well go check up on the market. But no running off down there, either of you. I don't wanna have to go and hunt for you, and find you've gotten yourself in some sorta trouble."

Ardee smiled at that, she looked genuinely excited at the prospect, and a bit surprised that Null had agreed to it.

Once they were outside, Ardee and Arcade stayed close to Null, the former looking every way she could, once again taking the opportunity to see everything she could.

The market itself was fairly sparse today in terms of venders. It seemed like many of them had either left with the Equestrians headed to North Port, or had gone to see if their wares would do better in New Pegasus. Still though, there was plenty of selection left in Troy from the more well established venders, including most of what Null was looking to get. (I'll let you RP the vendors you want to interact with, if you like, or simply gloss over it if you don't.)

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2022-10-18 at 9:23 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Gypsum responded after Opal, "Gypsum has taught many pups with sharper teeth than ponies, and her hide is tough. This one will let the foals decide the pace and topics of learning and play."

Lyft nodded at that, "I suppose I expect a bit more order than the others, but far be it from me to force them to do anything. So long as they behave during their examinations I don't mind rowdiness during learning periods."

 

Selena nodded, "They've already been informed as to their situation, and understand that they won't bring it up unless asked by the foals themselves."

"That's good to hear. From all of you. I'm sorry if I sounded a little dotting about this. I just want the best for them.

What I hear sounds good though, and I'm looking forward to hearing how the classes goes, once you start. I'll make sure that they know, that they need to behave, so they don't disturb. I promise. Though I don't think that's going to be a problem. We've had some small classes too, and they are very well behaved."

"Sounds to approval to me. Say, they aren't allergic to any local fauna, are they? I just want to make sure."

"Not as far as I am aware. Though scorpions is always a concern."

"Don't worry. I haven't had a student stung yet, and this class won't be the one to change that. I'm good at dealing with critters, that gets a little too rowdy."

Mainly by burning them, of blowing smoke. The latter of which, tended to disorient a lot, and she kept a keen eye, on her classes. She weren't gonna have an incident report on her claws. Especially not since - as Lyft said - there were not a lot of young ones around anymore. They should do their outmost, to care for, and nurture those they had left, and were to come.

As for the teachers, it seemed that Void approved of them, so that were good. Now she just had to deal with the foals, and informing them of something important: Homework and lunch boxes. The former of which she doubted would be too interesting for most, but well, it were important. As were nutrition. She'd make sure that were handled, no issue. 

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-18 at 9:23 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade looked a little wary of the suggestion, "Well, most of the magical items I've interacted with before have been... less than helpful. But if you think this one would be good, I'm willing to try it. I do have some practice with my knife without my horn too, but it would be good to practice more before we head out."

"We don't know until we try. If the hilt's there, you can try swinging a few, and see how it feels. If it ain't working, we just do it the old fashioned way."

She were just trying to give him the best tools that she could, for what they'd need to do. Might be he were relatively immortal, but that didn't means he were gonna risk it.

On 2022-10-18 at 9:23 PM, Illiad Easle said:

The market itself was fairly sparse today in terms of venders. It seemed like many of them had either left with the Equestrians headed to North Port, or had gone to see if their wares would do better in New Pegasus. Still though, there was plenty of selection left in Troy from the more well established venders, including most of what Null was looking to get. (I'll let you RP the vendors you want to interact with, if you like, or simply gloss over it if you don't.)

The first few places went well. For a start, the scavenger who had the magical sword, still had the hilt to said blade. The other pieces had been bought, as some were gonna reuse them for knives, or tools. One who had bought most of the small shards of it, had been wanting to stick them to some sticks, and use it as a rake. A weird one, but a sale were a sale after all, right? The hilt no one seemed to want though. Eyeing one who did here though, she'd agree to let Arcade try a few swings, with the blade-less hilt, and if it worked well with him, she'd purchase it. The hilt itself were not magical, but more the gems that were in it, worked well as magic receptors, making it easier to harness with magic. More like infusing it with the magic, and swinging it like a proper extension, rather than just holding it with magical force itself.

A shame it hadn't helped the original owner, but a hammer the size of his torso, had done well in crashing through it, and him. Hopefully Arcade were gonna be smarter than that, and move.

Beyond that, she also found a few other things. Some material for the weapon handles for instance, and a stroke of luck, with a couple of scabbards in pretty good shape too. This scavenger had been out and about it seemed, but she didn't complain. Even if she had to wash off the blood from the scabbards, and maybe have them stretched a bit, kind of. It sorta depended on the blades, but they could make them fit the scabbards, for ease of use. Beggars and choosers, y'know?

No luck at this one for the spring blade though. Nor at any of the other vendors, and she had them through the whole place. If there had been one, it were sold, or with the vendors, that had gone to New Las Pegasus, to try and get better sales. But at least she found a quiver and some good string for the bow, at some miniscule, sleepy vendor, who weren't used to getting a lot of customers anymore. Far as he told it, he were planning on going on the next trip, to the big city, to see if there were more of a use, for archery equipment there.

Some more trips around, and eventually, she'd just let out a sigh, and shake her head.

"Aight, seems like I outta take the second option then... Least we got most of the other stuff we needed, and at a good price too. Guess it got in handy, that a few of those we went to, had gone by the workshop.

I just need to find a proper log of wood, or something like it... Too much cracked, dry stuff around here. Won't make for a good bow.

Wanna get something to eat maybe, while I look around? I think we passed a food vendor like, five minutes ago, or something."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

Selena nodded, "Alright then, I'll start making the preparations for materials and all, see if other young ponies in the city or nearby are capable of attending. Everything should be ready by next week, but I'll be in contact."

She turned to Void as the teachers left, "If you want to tell the foals a little about the teachers before they are officially introduced, I think that would help. And if anything comes up, you know where to reach me."

If Void didn't have anything else for Selena, she would leave. Back inside the remaining young ponies would look to Void, Toupé asking, "What did Miss Diamond want? Was it about our new teachers?"

 

(Null)

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

More like infusing it with the magic, and swinging it like a proper extension, rather than just holding it with magical force itself.

Arcade was relieved when he didn't immediately die, or explode, or turn into some strange plant creature, when he picked up the handle. If felt actually useful, allowing him a much greater degree of control than he'd been able to do with his old blade. "Yeah, I think this will work well."

 

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Wanna get something to eat maybe, while I look around? I think we passed a food vendor like, five minutes ago, or something."

Ardee looked surprised by the concept, "You can get food here too? This place has everything!" She sniffed at the air and used the smells to guide her back to the place that Null had mentioned, assuming Null also went that way. Ardee still wasn't about to leave the group, especially since she had grasped the concept of paying for things, and that Null had the money that would be necessary in getting food.

The food vendors in the market were mostly exotic types, as if a Trojan wanted traditional Trojan food they'd make it at home, or go to a more established place over a vendor stall. Trojan food wasn't all that portable anyway, or it was very portable, but the latter wasn't exactly sought after when not actively traveling.

Which left the group with some options, there were grilled fish prepared and served by a griffon who claimed to have caught them herself from the oasis, there were a few traditional Equestrian dishes available in portable form, there was even a minotaur selling a type of curry.

(Again, if you have something else in mind for them to try, go right on ahead!)

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2022-10-20 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She turned to Void as the teachers left, "If you want to tell the foals a little about the teachers before they are officially introduced, I think that would help. And if anything comes up, you know where to reach me."

If Void didn't have anything else for Selena, she would leave. Back inside the remaining young ponies would look to Void, Toupé asking, "What did Miss Diamond want? Was it about our new teachers?"

Void would agree with Selena, and wish her a good day, as the crystalline pony would make her way to her own duties. For now, Void would go inside, and mentally prepare, as she had to think of a way to best describe the new teachers to the young ponies.

Seemed the interest were there too, as the question were pretty much the first that came from them.

"Yes, she wanted me to meet them, and see what I thought about them. And they all three seemed very nice. If everything goes right, you should be meeting them too, next week.

Before that though I think it important to prepare you, since none of them are ponies. I think maybe the best way, is to draw you something on the board, and you can kinda get an idea about how they look like."

She'd direct them to the little class room they had, then draw first, one of them. Toupé, as best as Void could do it. Then next to her, she'd first draw the diamond dog, and explain a few things about them. How they looked, their behavior, and general way of life. The packs, the underground lifestyle, and some of the history with ponies, that she knew of.

Then she'd go on to the changeling, which had a different story with ponies, but after she had mentioned abilities, and pointed out the the holes in the drawing really were there, she'd say it as nicely as she could. She'd focus more on the changelings that lived in relative harmony with ponies, and harvested emotions from them safely, than those like Chrysalis, who stood as a stark contrast to them.

Then at the end, she'd draw the dragon. Whereas the first two had been at roughly pony height, Opal towered over them. And here, she had to explain that Opal could get even bigger, as dragons tended to grow all their life, and they lived long. Then were the scales, fire breath, how some knew magic, and a bit of the story as she knew it, at least from the Equestrian side. She had seen interactions elsewhere in the world, but the one from Equestria, had seemed somewhat tolerant, and a fine middle ground.

She had pointed out some of these creatures too, in the foal book they had read, but still, it were good to give a bit more detail here, so they could be ready.

"Okay so uh... Any questions? I'll try and answer them, as best I can."

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-20 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Arcade was relieved when he didn't immediately die, or explode, or turn into some strange plant creature, when he picked up the handle. If felt actually useful, allowing him a much greater degree of control than he'd been able to do with his old blade. "Yeah, I think this will work well."

Seemed like this were a good investment then, so in the bag it went. Saved her from making a new hilt, so that would save time, and perhaps make it possible for them, to also have this one ready tomorrow. It would depend on what time she had to work with, of course. If Void got there too late, they had to prioritize. And something could go wrong, but they'd try at least.

On 2022-10-20 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Which left the group with some options, there were grilled fish prepared and served by a griffon who claimed to have caught them herself from the oasis, there were a few traditional Equestrian dishes available in portable form, there was even a minotaur selling a type of curry.

(Again, if you have something else in mind for them to try, go right on ahead!)

Since they were ponies, fish weren't really ideal. Null heard those in Neighpon could handle small portions of it, but she herself, did not think it were good for her stomach, so she'd just wholesale walk away from that, and go elsewhere, for more equine friendly food. Good that there were something for the meat eaters though. Had to be some sorta diverse options.

Her personal attention though, were drawn towards the curry. Curry were a nice dish. Especially if it had some spice to it. So she'd go and ask if it were vegetarian. Some weren't, so best to ask, especially since it were a minotaur who made it. Their diet weren't as restrictive, so could go either way there. And if it were, she'd for sure want that. If the others didn't want spice, they could move on to another place for their food. Potentially hers too, in case the curry were meat based.

Portable Equestrian dishes were fairly simple, and vegetarian. Haydogs and hayfries were fairly common, but even if this one didn't have that, various fruit based fried food were not unusual. Neither were stuff like slices of apple pie, tomatoes, hollowed out, and stuffed with a sort of stew, or mushroom soup, in a cup. Among others. There'd be options for them to look at. She couldn't get them everything on the menu, but they'd be fine, getting a fair thing to eat each. And while at it, Null would spot a vendor, selling some water canteens. The sign specifically said the wares were cleaned, and - in small font - to not ask any questions. Seemed suspicious, but the product were good, and they'd need that for the training. That sort were thirsty business, so she'd get three, and as the sign said, not ask questions. She'd assume they were all scavenged from dead Trojan soldiers.

After they'd finally be done sorting the meals out, she'd figure it best they went a bit from things, and found a place to sit and eat. And as they did that, she'd ask something of Ardee.

"So, how are you handling these amount of folks? Cause this might seem like a lot, but New Las Pegasus? It's a lot more active than this place is."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

23 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Before that though I think it important to prepare you, since none of them are ponies. I think maybe the best way, is to draw you something on the board, and you can kinda get an idea about how they look like."

Vale mentioned that she had already taught the ponies the basics on the different races and species, so Void could focus her discussion in on the teachers themselves as well as clarifying some of the things that Vale had taught them. Putting their features and abilities in context.

In regards to the diamond dog, Toupé nodded, "We've met diamond dogs before, they always carried around these long sticks and stood at the corners in the hallways. Whenever the alarms went off and we were outside our room they would escort us back so that nothing got to us."

In regards to the changeling, Teal commented, "I met a few, they were mostly scientists and researchers, they taught me most of the magic I know."

They were more excited about dragons than the other two, especially given the massive size difference. When asked for questions Elef asked, "How is Miss Opal going to teach us? Can she fit in here? Or are we going to go outside?" The other two were more excited at that prospect.

Teal followed up, "Are any of them going to teach us here? Or are we going to them to be taught? Mistress mentioned that it was good to have separate spaces for learning and living."

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-24 at 1:25 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Since they were ponies, fish weren't really ideal.

(I subscribe to the idea that pegasi have no issues with fish, but other ponies would be less inclined.)

On 2022-10-24 at 1:25 PM, Blitz Boom said:

So she'd go and ask if it were vegetarian. Some weren't, so best to ask, especially since it were a minotaur who made it.

The minotaur was happy to sell them some vegetarian curry, they had prepared to sell to all types of creatures after all, and the curry was made such that the spice was added separately such that one could chose their level of spice when they ordered.

Arcade would stick to a low level of spice, while Ardee would go for a mid level.

On 2022-10-24 at 1:25 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"So, how are you handling these amount of folks? Cause this might seem like a lot, but New Las Pegasus? It's a lot more active than this place is."

She thought for a moment, "It's more than I'm used to, but I'm used to tuning out crowds. So long as I have something to focus on I won't get overwhelmed. And, well, so long as I can take breaks from the crowds like this, I should be fine."

She sighed, "After spending my whole life in that place, only hearing stories of what the world outside was like, seeing it now is strange. It just feels so... underwhelming almost. But I guess I was only told the interesting parts, leaving out the commonplace things that I now see make up most of the experience."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2022-10-25 at 9:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

They were more excited about dragons than the other two, especially given the massive size difference. When asked for questions Elef asked, "How is Miss Opal going to teach us? Can she fit in here? Or are we going to go outside?" The other two were more excited at that prospect.

Teal followed up, "Are any of them going to teach us here? Or are we going to them to be taught? Mistress mentioned that it was good to have separate spaces for learning and living."

"It's good to know that you're aware of two of them, though these aren't guards, not scientists, per se. Lyft is a doctor, so she can help you, if you feel ill, but she won't do anything bad.

And Opal will be teaching you outside. She's a bit too big for the buildings in town, so her lessons is out in the nice, fresh air. So you'll probably get to see the plant and animal life she wants to teach you about, up close, instead of just in books. I'm sure you're going to enjoy it.

And I am not sure exactly where you're gonna be taught, I'm afraid. I... Kinda forgot to ask, or have just forgotten about it. Only one I know can't teach you in here, are Opal. But I'd assume that you'd have to go to a classroom elsewhere, for a bit. I'll try and find out, and see what the case is. Unless you know, Vale? I'm sorry if we were told, and I forgot. Just been a hectic day or so, so some things just escape me a bit."

She'd look towards Vale, hoping that the doe had answers to the question. If not, she'd definitely need to find out, as it would be important. Though she were almost certain, that it were lessons elsewhere, and not here. It felt like that were the intention. If not, then why include Opal, as she couldn't teach them in here as it were, so the young ponies would become exposed to society there regardless.

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-25 at 9:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

(I subscribe to the idea that pegasi have no issues with fish, but other ponies would be less inclined.)

Some pegasi might be able to eat fish, but Null had never, and would never, take the chance. She had not survived this long, to die to food poisoning, so she'd subscribe to the notion that meat were not for ponies, no exceptions. if others wanted to risk themselves, then that were on them. She wouldn't be one of 'em.

On 2022-10-25 at 9:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

The minotaur was happy to sell them some vegetarian curry, they had prepared to sell to all types of creatures after all, and the curry was made such that the spice was added separately such that one could chose their level of spice when they ordered.

Arcade would stick to a low level of spice, while Ardee would go for a mid level.

Null would go a higher mid spice. She enjoyed a bit of a burn, but she weren't interested in sweating bullets for the next hour. So going for a high spice, were a bit too far for her. Nice to have the option though. She needed to try and remember this place for another time too, in case it tasted good. Smelled great at least, so that were a good start.

On 2022-10-25 at 9:46 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She thought for a moment, "It's more than I'm used to, but I'm used to tuning out crowds. So long as I have something to focus on I won't get overwhelmed. And, well, so long as I can take breaks from the crowds like this, I should be fine."

She sighed, "After spending my whole life in that place, only hearing stories of what the world outside was like, seeing it now is strange. It just feels so... underwhelming almost. But I guess I was only told the interesting parts, leaving out the commonplace things that I now see make up most of the experience."

As she were thinking, Null would just watch her, whilst taking a bit to eat from her curry. And it did taste as good as it smelled. Excellent. Something good and down to earth happening here now, lest like, a large eyeball flowed up to the top of the bowl, and it turned ou the curry were partially made with pony. Though she were around 99.7% sure that weren't the case. Pony weren't a sustainable food source anymore, after The Crisis, so it would probably be noticed more these days, if some vanished.

"I think it's more that you were told of the world, how it used to be.

What you're seeing here? It's a sliver of life, and nothing near what even a midsized town used to be like, in most places. And capitols, or a metropolis? The amount you see in Troy, wouldn't even fill a single of their larger shopping malls out.

But The Crisis meant that a lot have died off, and the survivors, are huddled into a few places of safety, few and far between. With the gates closed, we're gonna see some more here and there, abandon their safe camps, and go to the central hubs, but it's probably gonna take at least a half millennia, before we're seeing the world go back to anything close, the sheer amount of beings, that there used to be. And hopefully, it won't go back to working how it did before. A lot of places had their ugly sides. Hopefully after everything, the survivors knows better.

I've been near and far, with Void, when we tried to look for a home. We've seen a lot, and most of it, is just gone now, I can imagine. But there's still things to see, and to learn. Shadows of what used to be, memories left behind, some towns mostly still standing and so on. It's a big place, but dangerous. That part have probably only gotten worse, so if you want out there, you need to be capable. It'd break my sisters heart, if she heard you had gotten eaten, or worse.

*sigh* But that's for tomorrow. Today's gonna be used preparing, and then, we'll see how it goes there. Still one place I have to go before that, but I can't let you join me in on that. Potentially bad influence, that one."

She still needed to find where he were exactly, but that spider of his, had wandered around the outskirts. Might be worth asking that one, if she could find it.

"Good that this isn't too much though. It's a good start."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

And I am not sure exactly where you're gonna be taught, I'm afraid. I... Kinda forgot to ask, or have just forgotten about it. Only one I know can't teach you in here, are Opal. But I'd assume that you'd have to go to a classroom elsewhere, for a bit. I'll try and find out, and see what the case is. Unless you know, Vale? I'm sorry if we were told, and I forgot. Just been a hectic day or so, so some things just escape me a bit."

Vale nodded, "They are setting up a school in the city for the other two teachers, and an area outside the city for your lessons with Opal. They're also looking for any other young ponies in the city that can learn with you. So there's the possibility of you all making some new friends as well." Vale smiled as she said that though it faltered, "There used to be a lot more young ponies here, but almost all of them left on the Æther Project, like your Mistress, so I don't know haw many are left, or what kind they'll be."

Elef spoke up, "I know there's at least a few other young thestrals like me, I met them at the festival last week, but I don't think they all live here. Ada told me that most of the thestrals at the festival were going back to their colony now that it was safe to travel, but maybe a few of them are left?"

Vale nodded, "Maybe, we'll find out next week. I'll try and see if I can show you all the school before it starts, so you can get familiar with it."

 

(Null)

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

With the gates closed,

Ardee's ears perked up at that, "You and the other adults have mentioned these 'gates' a few times now. I assume you're not talking about those gates," she gestured towards the city gates, which they could see from where they were sitting as they were near the end of the road that led straight to them. "Since those gates are open. What gates are you talking about? And why is it so good that they're closed?"

11 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Still one place I have to go before that, but I can't let you join me in on that. Potentially bad influence, that one."

She raised an eyebrow at that, "What, is this place more dangerous than New Pegasus?"

Arcade knew who she was talking about though, "I think she'll be fine meeting him, she's more like you than your sister after all."

 

(Unless you have more in mind, for instance having Ardee meet Molotov, I'm fine with skipping forward to the end of the week. I didn't have anything special planned for their training anyway.)

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

"Yes, there's not as many as there were, but... There's enough, to make a difference. And someday, The Æther is going to come back, and bring with them, the next generation of beings, to teach about the world they knew. It's sad a lot are gone, but I like to think more on how they're at least safe. And there's still plenty around, for you to interact with, and hopefully, some of them will become your friends."

There were also gonna be some they couldn't do with. And potentially even some bullies, as sadly, even small groups, were likely to have one of those, but they could get through that, and find some way, to make things work as best as they could. If it could end up at least neutral, that were going to be a start.

If something did go the wrong way though, Void would stand ready, to have a stern talking to the parents of any foal, whelping, hatchling, calf, etc. that would go that route. She of course weren't gonna hit a youngling, nor did she want any of he- These young ponies, to cause a fight. That should probably be something they needed to discuss actually... She didn't want them fighting, but in case something did happen, being able to defend yourself, were a good thing. She had to bring that up to Vale at some point, and hear her opinion on it though. Wouldn't be right of her, to just go over her head with everything.

"Anyway, I think it sounds like a nice idea, to go and show you the school area, before you start. We'll figure out some details, and look into it, but I don't think that should be too big of an issue either. And it would be nice, if some of those you met, showed up too, Elef. I'm sure it'd be calming, to have some familiar faces there.

Hmm, think we should get some dinner sorted eventually though. Vale? What do you think, we should prepare? I'd probably need to go and get some things, so better to get ready in good time, yes?"

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-10-27 at 10:29 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee's ears perked up at that, "You and the other adults have mentioned these 'gates' a few times now. I assume you're not talking about those gates," she gestured towards the city gates, which they could see from where they were sitting as they were near the end of the road that led straight to them. "Since those gates are open. What gates are you talking about? And why is it so good that they're closed?"

"The gates of Tartarus. Long story short, when you die, most Equine culture in the nearby lands, goes by the thought, that you can end up in three places. Tartarus, Elysium, and Purgatory. Elysium is for the good souls, Tartarus for the bad ones, and Purgatory... I dunno. I didn't hear a lot about that, but it's some sort of grim fate.

The gates to Tartarus being open by Discord, meant he had an ocean of some very bad souls, that he could use as soldiers Discord got killed, but they still kept flooding out. Sis, myself, and some others, went there and got it shut, so the evil souls wouldn't just come back out, after being sent back.

We aren't heroes though. The real hero, never came back with us. Her name is Foe Hammer. She went into Tartarus, to close the gate fully. The honor for the new age, is all hers, far as I'm concerned."

Null didn't care for the honor, recognition, or any of that jazz. Foe had been the true hero, that had put a nail in a grizzly chapter, and she would not put herself above that mare, in any way. Breaking chains be damned, Foe did more for this world, that her, Void, or any of the other on the team had, in the end.

She had kept her words too. Weren't exactly easy, but she had either pushed for a statue, and memorial to be made for Foe, or would've gotten one made herself. Not personally though. She would've traded some favors, for work they had done on a particular client.

Void would've almost put the hammer Foe had used at the memorial, but she were reminded, what had been told her. Foe would likely have wanted her to have it, and thus, it were tenderly packaged, and stashed, safely within their workshop. Had she ever a need to carry a weapon again, it would be that.

On 2022-10-27 at 10:29 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She raised an eyebrow at that, "What, is this place more dangerous than New Pegasus?"

Arcade knew who she was talking about though, "I think she'll be fine meeting him, she's more like you than your sister after all."

"Nah, he's not more dangerous, but he's just very annoying sometimes.

If you don't think it's a problem, then we might as well. Go eat up, and we'll be on our way."

Soon as they were done, Null would lead them towards the area she had last seen Felicia in, and not far from there, they'd indeed find the large spiderbot. She had yet refused to go too far into town, in case things went south, or she spooked others, so she had stayed in the outskirts, going back and forth a bit, and climbed a building once. She were going down from it, as they ran into her in fact, jumping down upon the sand with little effort, and landing with precision, to only leave a small clank, in case there were rocks. All about timing the spring effect.

She'd be willing to lead them back to her creator, as she had enough for now anyway. The trip out there afterwards, would be wholly uneventful, barring one pony suddenly going in a VERY big circle around them, to avoid going anywhere near the spiderbot.

As they'd get into the desert, it wouldn't be too long of a walk afterwards, before they'd stand at the makeshift workshop, of Molotov Boom. The pony himself, just returning it seemed, after scavenging some more parts, for his inevitable wandering workshop. Seemed like he had gotten a fair bit so far. Still needed to reverse engineer some things, but it were a start, for sure.

As he'd see them though, he'd look momentarily surprised, then grin from ear to ear.

"Well well, if it ain't my favorite couple. And you brought a friend round here. Lemme guess: You're here to kick the tar outta me, for making a move on your sis again, eh?"

"Not this time, unless you run your mouth too much, Boom. We're here to get something done, and you're regrettably the only one I think can do it in short order."

"Awh, well if that ain't just warming my lil 'ol heart. Mind me asking who this here friend a yours are?

I'm Molotov Boom. How's it hanging?"

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

Vale smiled at Void's comments about dinner, and moved towards the door, "You've been in and out all day, the young ones are starting to miss you. I'll take care of dinner tonight while you spend some more time with them." With that she passed Void by out the door, leaving her in charge with the foals.

Peal spoke up, "Um, well, we've been learning pretty much all day, maybe you could teach us a game to play?"

 

(Null)

On 2022-11-01 at 3:32 PM, Blitz Boom said:

We aren't heroes though. The real hero, never came back with us. Her name is Foe Hammer. She went into Tartarus, to close the gate fully. The honor for the new age, is all hers, far as I'm concerned."

Ardee looked rather stoic as she listened to Null, clearly she hadn't expected the answer she had gotten. "Ah... I guess I can see why everyone would be happy about those being closed again then. Another question, who is Discord?"

 

On 2022-11-01 at 3:32 PM, Blitz Boom said:

I'm Molotov Boom. How's it hanging?

Ardee looked somewhat concerned by Molotov, mostly due to how harmless he seemed verses how he had been described. "I'm Ardee." She turned to Null, "What do we need here?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

Void blushed up a little, as Vale pointed out that she were missed around here today, after having to rush back and forth. She knew it were true, but it were still something that made her a little cheek red, to be confronted by.

"Well, I know several games. Plenty we can still do inside, without ending up causing a ruckus. Though I need to look into whatever or not, we can go to a more open area, one of these days. It'd be nice teaching you some hoofball, or soccer, or a myriad of other sports.

For an indoor game, perhaps we can try Pictionary? It's a fun little guessing game, and should be a good warmup, while I think of something else to do afterwards. Something with a bit more physical activity to it, to get our limbs stretched out."

She'd go to the board, and explain the premise and rules of the game. It were rather simple really, with them having to draw, and others try and guess what it were. It were a nice way to train creative thinking and skills too, and hopefully with all they had learned and seen recently, they'd have some things they could bring up for the game, instead of being clueless as to what a certain picture were going to be meant to be.

She'd even start first, by trying to draw a strawberry, and see who'd get it first.

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

 

(Null)

On 2022-11-07 at 4:11 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee looked rather stoic as she listened to Null, clearly she hadn't expected the answer she had gotten. "Ah... I guess I can see why everyone would be happy about those being closed again then. Another question, who is Discord?"

"He were the lord of chaos. Probably the oldest, and strongest draconequui. Ruled the lands thousands of years ago, got turned to stone, got out, tried again, got turned to stone again. Then they released him, reformed him, and things seemed good, from what I hear. Until he opened the gates, destroyed Equestria, and then more or less destroyed civilisation as we know it. No one thought he'd go and do that, but he did, and in the end, he got killed for it, by Consul Easle. It's what made him an alicorn, from what I understand. The damage's still been done though. Gonna take generations, before anything resembling what used to be, returns again.

And if you wonder what a draconequui is, they're basically chaos-aligned, trickster demigods. Most of them are incredibly powerful, but more or less harmless, since they don't seem to care for war, and empires. They're just trying to entertain themselves.

I dunno which ones are still out there. Knew barely a half dozen by name as it were. You won't be in doubt if you ever see one though. They're all looking like they're a mixture of several creatures. I guess it's the chaos in them, that makes them stand out, and unique."

It were hard to give a description of them all, but she'd give some of the two she knew the most off. The first being Discord, who were now thankfully dead. The other were one she had been given a folder about, with a picture. She did not have the folder anymore, but she recalled the picture, as it were a rather absurd sight to her, considering the folder had been for a meditation temple, of all things.

Eight spindly, long legs, standing  on floating lily pads, dripping with clean water. Each of the legs were a different color, and leading into a dark-multicolored torso. Behind it, an abdomen dangled, following the same pattern of darker rainbow colors that the torso did, with a marking on top. One that looked like a cackling, malnourished equine face, which if you looked on it, would move to look at you with its empty eyes, even on the paper. The sockets carrying a sense of malice, yet there were a circle of mint-green clouds dancing around and through the paper, which radiated a sense of calm to most. It would mean that the more you looked, the more there would be both a duality of fear and peace that would go through you, though which one were noticed the most, would wary by how the viewer felt. If they were balanced, it would be neutrality, and the face would be smiling in their eyes. It hadn't worked on her or Void, but it were what others had said, when they looked.

As for the rest of the being, the torso would change from the thin, almost bone-like spider beneath, to a risen body of a mare, belly upwards. She'd be thin and much like the face, seeming malnourished, with visible ribs showing. Instead of front legs, she would have no arms or legs, but just free floating dark hands, with clawed, elongated fingers, which were gathered together, palm to palm.

Further up the dark-grey equine body, you'd find it ending in an equine head. Malnourished as the one on the back, with the skin seemingly just covering the skull. From her head sprang minty-green, long hair, which despite being clearly rather thin, still somehow managed to spring lusciously and long, and gathering in three formations to the back, and sides of her head. The formations being simple circles, looping perfectly. And within each of those circles, were a small, golden figure. One looking like an open maw, within a maw. Another like the head pictured on her abdomen. And the third of a hand, clutching a coin.

Her teeth were looking like they had been cleaned in mossy water, and if you looked into her eyes, you'd find that there were little more than pure darkness, with a small, flickering yellow light deep within each of them.

Some other things seemed to be worn by her. Each leg had a golden ring near the *knee*, with three of them inscribed with something, though the picture hadn't been large enough to show what. There were also seemingly dots, making for an odd debris belt around her, though she never understood that one.

She also had small bowls floating near her, each filled with seeds, or water, whereupon birds would sit land upon, to take joy in either.

Frankly, the creature had been absurd to her. Even called itself Fright. And she had happily put that way, way in the back of her head, thinking nothing off it for a long time, until she heard a few words on the market, that made her recall, and saw a half-ruined folder, for a brief moment, before the seemingly disgusted scavenger, had set it on fire. It appeared to have been part of some dead creatures collection, that he had nicked out there. Didn't appear the magic had lasted, and the picture itself, were not inviting. Especially not since Discord's actions, would likely get every draconequui harshly judged, for millennia to come.

On 2022-11-07 at 4:11 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee looked somewhat concerned by Molotov, mostly due to how harmless he seemed verses how he had been described. "I'm Ardee." She turned to Null, "What do we need here?"

"Ardee, eh? Nice name. Reminds me of my great granduncle, Arson Bee Boom. The middle name were from his wife. Packed a mean punch that one, from what I were told."

"Of course someone named Arson in your family line...

And we're here, to get a blade done."

"Forge work? That's pretty easy, but I thought Void knew that. She ain't hurt, right?"

"No. But I were thinking a spring knife for the leg."

"Aaaah. Full holster, draw and undraw spring knife, with a proper leg sleeve, eh? Yeah, that's a bit harder.

Shucks, why not? It'd be a fun way to ease up, and gather my mind 'bout these things. And who'd I be, if I didn't go and help my future-"

"Don't say it."

"... Sister in law."

He'd duck, as he expected Null to toss a rock at him, but no, she were just glaring. What a strange, but welcome change in behavior. His skull worked better, if it weren't cracked.

"I... Grrr, can you do it or not, Boom?"

"Of course. Just need some measurements, and I'll get right on it. Outta be done within a few hours. Just gotta light up the forge, and get the good iron out."

Since she had taken measurements, Null could just give them to him. He'd remember it, along with Carmen, who backed it up in her head too, just in case.

Unless she had something to add, they could be on their way right after, and leave Molotov to his antics, and work.

Edited November 10, 2022 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Void)

The young ponies caught on to the game quickly, and if the image was simple enough even the foals would offer their guesses, provided it was something they had seen before like a 'staw-bea-we'

It would take about half an hour for Vale to return with food, already hot and prepared, "I went out for ingredients, and I happened across a stall selling this curry, and it turns out that Ardee and Null stopped by that same stall earlier today. Figured it would be an interesting change of habit to try this tonight. Plus, it goes well with the traditional bread I had you all try a few days ago, so I got some of that too."

Vale would then dish out the mild vegetarian curry to everyone along with some flat bread, demonstrating that the curry could be eaten on its own, or by dipping or scooping with the bread. She also had a small portion of a more gryphon style curry for Elef if he wanted to try it, which he did.

 

(Null)

On 2022-11-10 at 3:28 PM, Blitz Boom said:

They're all looking like they're a mixture of several creatures. I guess it's the chaos in them, that makes them stand out, and unique."

Ardee nodded at that, "I don't think I've ever seen any like that. But I can see why many ponies talk about him with fear."

She didn't have any other questions after that.

On 2022-11-10 at 3:28 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Unless she had something to add, they could be on their way right after, and leave Molotov to his antics, and work.

Ardee didn't add anything, a bit concerned with the interaction between Null and Molotov, she figured it wouldn't help to accidentally turn Null's annoyance towards her.

She waited until they were heading back to the city, the sun starting to set making the walk a bit chilly, "So, who was that? He seemed nice enough, maybe talked a bit much, but you talk to him like you hate him. Did... did something happen between you two?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Void)

On 2022-11-12 at 10:04 PM, Illiad Easle said:

It would take about half an hour for Vale to return with food, already hot and prepared, "I went out for ingredients, and I happened across a stall selling this curry, and it turns out that Ardee and Null stopped by that same stall earlier today. Figured it would be an interesting change of habit to try this tonight. Plus, it goes well with the traditional bread I had you all try a few days ago, so I got some of that too."

"Null had curry from a vendor?"

Void seemed genuinely surprised at that, as she blinked a few times, after the revelation.

"I thought she'd never do that again, after the last time. It were quite crazy really. The vendor said he sold vegetarian soup, but we found an uh... Uhm... A-Actually, that story have to wait for another time. It's ah, not suitable for young audiences."

Shouldn't even have brought it up in fact, but hearing this, made some memories pop up, and uh... She had forgotten for a moment, that they weren't among the pleasant ones.

Sitting at the table - after all had washed their hooves, of course - and enjoying their meals, Void would be delayed a little bit, as she made sure there were water at the table, and cups to drink from. Curry could get a little well spicy sometimes, and just in general, it were important to get something to drink.

"This is rather good. And you're right, it goes well with the bread. This was a pretty good find, Vale.

And it's nice hearing that Ardee and Null seems to be getting along. To be honest, I'm kinda hoping they can bond a little. I think they'd understand each other, more than they might realize."

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

 

(Null)

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee didn't add anything, a bit concerned with the interaction between Null and Molotov, she figured it wouldn't help to accidentally turn Null's annoyance towards her.

She waited until they were heading back to the city, the sun starting to set making the walk a bit chilly, "So, who was that? He seemed nice enough, maybe talked a bit much, but you talk to him like you hate him. Did... did something happen between you two?"

"I don't hate him, it's just... He's so... Urgh..."

Null had to halt herself, and close her eyes, before she started to talk. This one required her to keep a bit more of a level head to explain, and as she were going through things in her head, with less of a temper, she could start to hear how utterly idiotic she sounded, before she even started to explain it. It gave her a bit of a mental kick in the face, so to speak. Nine probably found that amusing, all things considered...

"Look, it's not rational, okay? I'm just miffed at him, because he's chasing after my little sister, and it's hard not staying the protective elder sister, alright? I've spend most of my life, keeping her safe, from anyone as much as trying to get near her, in case they were up to something bad, and then along comes Him...

Back when we first saw him in Ponyville, I beat the tar out of him, for not grasping that she wanted some personal space, and to stop hitting on her. Void were mortified of that sorta attention back then. And yeah, I beat him up a little hard maybe. Sure, the local guard came around, and were about to jail me for it, until he went and said he deserved it, and that he wouldn't press charges. And I guess he's still affectionate to Void, 3 years later, and travelled from an actual safe spot in Equestria to see her, so it wasn't just a fluke with him...

Urgh, I'm really not selling this well... Look, you saw him at his best there, but he's still annoying half the time, and I'm a big sister. It's hard not wanting to kick that stupid grin off of his face."

It also didn't help, that from the get go, she had seen him fly around with his crafted wings, when she had just one. It hadn't endeared him further to her, to see a unicorn, just go and make for himself, what she couldn't have. That he then also tried to court her sister, and didn't seem to have a filter between his mouth and brain, were just adding to the frustration.

"Just you wait and see. When he actually hoofs over the knife, he's gonna say something, and you're gonna wanna relieve him of a few teeth too."

She'd keep walking after this, whilst mentally going through at what point, she managed to both make her argument, and lose it at the same time.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

Things were fairly normal over the course of the week, Ardee showed a high level of skill and commitment when it came to training, and though the mare did not show it, Null got the impression that even the Spartratian was impressed. Sure, there was only so much that could be learned in a week. But it was clear by the end that Ardee had some skills with a bow and a knife.

The young ponies on the other hoof were growing slightly more excited each day for starting school as they learning more and more about it. At the end of the week Void was given the go ahead to show them the school building before classes would begin, and she was shown it herself in preparation. It was a single room schoolhouse set up for eight students, so there were opportunities for new friends. The school itself was near to the old consulate district, which had been designed with hosting the occasional dragon in mind, so for lessons that did not require leaving the city they would be able to take lessons from their dragon teacher there. In short, the area was comfortable, which seemed to match the mood in the rest of the city as things continued to calm and stabilize in the world.

 

(Null)

Ardee had all of her equipment packed, as well as a few keepsakes she had been given by her siblings to remember them by, "I'm ready, as ready as I'll be. How are we going to get to New Pegasus anyway?"

While progress had been made on repairing the train line, it would still be several months before regular rail service would be available. So their options included borrowing a walker, chartering an airship, or asking a favor of the Consul, who might be able to pull some strings for them considering this trip did have Vengeance in mind.

 

(Void)

As the young ponies ate breakfast, eager to go see the school house for themselves, Teal asked while helping with Peal, "So... Are the two of you just going to be taking care of the foals while we're at school? It didn't sound like they would be joining us there. I know you've got something planned... I just... I think I'll be able to enjoy it more if I knew what the plan was, you know?"

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

The week had been a little rushed, but productive. Void and herself had been able to get weaponry made for Ardee, before the first training session. Yet even if they had pulled an all nighter, Molotov had been done way before that. A few hours as he had said, seemed to be the truth, then half an hour to get to them proper. It appeared he had been waiting at the shop at the time, holding the spring-knife harness (a simple thing going up the leg, with pressure sensors for both sheating and unsheathing the knife - and had been thrilled when he saw Void had joined up, after the young ponies had gotten to sleep. They'd gotten a bit of a talk, then it came up what they were trying to do, and he had stayed to help them. It had actually helped, as they had even had time to get Arcade's sword done in time too.

Null had to admit after that, that though he were still an irritating gnat sometimes, he were... Okay, she supposed.

As for the harness, Ardee were gonna need to practice how to use the muscles for it right, as to not cause accidents, or not being able to use it when it were needed. But it were fairly simple. She'd probably have learned it quickly, and the harness hid well under a sleeve. So she might want to get herself a shirt or something, if she wanted this to be more concealed.

Training benefitted Null too, with her feeling like she were sharpening her reflexes a fair bit, and bashed some rust off of her physical combat prowess. Hopefully Arcade got something out of it too.

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Ardee had all of her equipment packed, as well as a few keepsakes she had been given by her siblings to remember them by, "I'm ready, as ready as I'll be. How are we going to get to New Pegasus anyway?"

"I dunno. I've spend most time focusing on the training, and trying to ignore the soreness. But the Consul brought it up, so maybe he has a plan? If not, least he can tell us the options."

She had gotten there with a travel party last time, and they could probably cross the desert too themselves, albeit very slowly. But she had neglected to ask him what the plan were actually, as the last she recalled, he had said there were this time limit, due to a diplomatic envoy, that he were going to set up, that they could catch a ride along with. Though she hadn't heard a thing since, she assumed he were as busy as she were, if not more. Now might well be the time to seek him out, and get ready. Her bags were packed too anyway. Had been since yesterday.

She also had a toy of her own. A gift from Molotov, that - as he put it - *wanted to start on a good hoofing with her this time*. He'd heard her speak about how she used a blow-dart set once, so he made a blow-pipe for her, and given her a bag of metal pellets. The pipe were a sturdy, metallic thing, and as he put it, had some technical work done on it. It wasn't important she knew the details, just that when she blew something through this, it would gain extra power to it. Though he advised metal only, due to the friction it would do, things like a blow-dart, might actually catch fire before it even left the pipe. At least he said there were a solid 78.4% chance of it.

She'd tried using it, to shoot at a piece of broken wall, out in the desert too. It indeed packed a fair punch, and gave off an odd, whistling sound, like a foghorn. Apparently a design kink that were currently not fixable, but he'd let her know if he thought of something.

It helped her view on him some, even if he had right after, made a comment about her and the pipe, that made her whack him on the side of the face with it. Dumb, useful fool that one...

Anyway, they had a future to go towards, and it would start at the Consul's office.

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

 

(Void)

"I honestly don't have a lot planned yet, but yes, they're a little too young for school yet. We'll take good care of them though, I promise.

Though if you want a bit more specifics, I figured we'd teach them a few basic things, to prepare them for the outside. So I've brought a few things with me, and will give them a bit more education about creatures like Lacuni. They're getting along well with him, so there's some lizard facts we can try and teach them. As well as what not to do, if they meet a wild one. Which isn't much with these. Cacklers are very harmless, but other lizards can be different.

I have a few games lined up too, that's gonna help keep them active, but Vale and I are still thinking of a few more ideas.

What about you? Are you feeling ready for school? It's gonna be different out there, than with us. What with other students and teachers. Are you feeling nervous, hon?"

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2022-11-18 at 3:31 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Anyway, they had a future to go towards, and it would start at the Consul's office.

In terms of clothing to hide her knife, Ardee had picked up a trojan style wrap to cover herself with, which helped her to blend in with the locals and further obfuscate her passing resemblance to a certain element. Plus, it allowed her to keep her wings covered and hidden when not in use. She put the robe on before leaving, but left her stuff where it was, "No sense carrying it around if we're not leaving right now. We can come back for it when it's time to leave."

The guards let them in when they arrived at the estate, indicating that the Consul had been expecting them. They were shown into his office where he was working on paperwork, "Ah, there you are, I was starting to think you had forgotten, or that you wouldn't be able to make it with the envoy."

He looked up from his papers, "I presume that's why you're here, right?"

Assuming they agreed he would continue, "Good, I have your documents around here somewhere, I'll have them delivered to your workshop before it's time to leave, but essentially you'll be going under the cover of a new program we're running. We send a few select citizens out to experience the city and report back. See if it's safe to allow full travel there. No oversight since the town isn't supposed to know which of all of you is going to do the reporting, and that said there will be a number of other citizens traveling with you, some of them will be assigned to report back on the experience. The caveat is that you'll need to return at the end of the week, so you'll have six days to complete your objective, or wait for another way back. If that's all agreeable to you, the caravan leaves at sundown."

 

(Void)

Teal looked thoughtful, "I don't think so? I mean, it should be the same as here right? Or more like the facility with structured learning, probably something in between? If that's the case, I don't see why I'd need to be worried. If anything I'm looking forward to meeting other ponies our age."

Vale nodded, "That's good, meeting others can often be an uplifting experience. I wish I'd had more opportunities to be with others my age when I was growing up." She turned to Void, "Well, I think they're ready, shall we show them the schoolhouse? This will be their first time out in the city during the day too. Maybe we could show them around a bit so they can get familiar with the route? We wouldn't want them getting lost on the way to school after all."

[Blitz Boom 4,627]

@Illiad Easle

(Null)

On 2022-11-21 at 10:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

The guards let them in when they arrived at the estate, indicating that the Consul had been expecting them. They were shown into his office where he was working on paperwork, "Ah, there you are, I was starting to think you had forgotten, or that you wouldn't be able to make it with the envoy."

He looked up from his papers, "I presume that's why you're here, right?"

"Hadn't forgotten, just not come around to focus on the finer details yet, Consul. We've been busy prepping for the trip."

Weren't even kidding with that. She had barely seen her family as it were, spending her time sorting training, then do practices, work, etc. Nul mostly spend her time not doing this, either sleeping, or staying up to speak with her family, but the foals are still newborn. They needed a lot of rest, so she couldn't spend as much waking time with them, as she sometimes wanted to. Though even the times when all she could do, were to look, and see them sleep, it still helped her greatly. The sight of them, continued to give her resolve, and energy for the trials ahead.

She did still play with them a bit, whenever she did catch them at awake times. Awkwardly though, as it were very clear by how she were asking what to do often, that she had little to not experience, being around other foals. Newborn especially. Weren't stopping her, but there were a steep learning curve here too.

On 2022-11-21 at 10:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Assuming they agreed he would continue, "Good, I have your documents around here somewhere, I'll have them delivered to your workshop before it's time to leave, but essentially you'll be going under the cover of a new program we're running. We send a few select citizens out to experience the city and report back. See if it's safe to allow full travel there. No oversight since the town isn't supposed to know which of all of you is going to do the reporting, and that said there will be a number of other citizens traveling with you, some of them will be assigned to report back on the experience. The caveat is that you'll need to return at the end of the week, so you'll have six days to complete your objective, or wait for another way back. If that's all agreeable to you, the caravan leaves at sundown."

"Six days to catch him? Seems possible to get done by then. Outta be someone that's seen something, and we can work from there.

Anything else you'd want us to do while there, in case we do end up finishing early? Ain't saying he's gonna go down fast, but just in case, I figure it can't hurt considering it."

Things sounded like they were in order, and they had some days to work with. Worst case scenario, they'd need to wait for a caravan or something, but it all seemed like they did have options here, and a time frame that should be somewhat possible to keep.

That said, she'd turn to her companions, and Ardee specifically, as this here did have some implication for her.

"Arcade and I aren't new to the town. Got a few faces that might remember us, and have their thoughts. If they start getting in your face too, tell 'em to bugger off.

Anyway, we'll have everything sorted for tonight no issue, I'd wager. We all just gotta go and tell some folks we'll be off for a few days.,"

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

 

(Void)

The reply were a relief to hear, for Void. Might not count for all of them, but at least Teal seemed to have the right attitude, of looking forward to this, and focusing on the positives. That were a great thing, and an attitude that would hopefully help them mingle better.

She did get a bit of sadness on her smile though, for a brief moment, when Vale spoke. She were almost tempted to chime in, as she had heard the doe say she did not mingle well as small, since Void knew that feeling painfully well. Yet she'd force herself to look past that, and focus on what came next. Perk up the smile, stand tall, and prepare her response, to quite an important question.

"That sounds like a great idea. But we have to make sure everyone's ready for the walk, and knows to stay close. I'd be best if we didn't have to go and run around, trying to find someone. The better it goes, the more we can look around some other day. I think you'd find parts of the city to be rather nice.

Maybe we can go past the Pygmy Ghost Vulture trainer actually... I've shown you a picture, in the mural, but not how they look like in real life. There's a vendor like the one I got Lacuna from, that deals with them, not far off the route to school. It'd be a nice chance to show you some of them perhaps, and teach you a bit more, of the local fauna. I'm sure Opal will teach you plenty more, but a look couldn't hurt, though Lacuna and I will keep a bit of a distance. Predator and prey relations, you see."

It'd be nice really. She had thought of getting one of these birds too, but Cacklers had always just struck her a lot, and Lacuna had always been so happy whenever she came around. It felt destined. Didn't mean the younglings couldn't get a chance to see one in the flesh.

As for Opal... She might struggle fitting proper around the vendor, but she likely had some books, and were bound to eventually shown them the wild, full sized Ghost Vultures. A fair bit less cuddly and cute than their smaller cousins, but fascinating in their own right.

But one thing at a time. First, they should get the whole gang ready. Then, they'd finally be able to go out, and get some fresh air, in the daylight. Just like a real fami- School group.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom

(Null)

On 2022-11-24 at 3:15 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Anything else you'd want us to do while there, in case we do end up finishing early? Ain't saying he's gonna go down fast, but just in case, I figure it can't hurt considering it."

The Consul thought for a moment, "Well, the Judges have been prepared so you'll be taking him to them once you catch him rather than bringing him back here. I won't force a meeting with your former sibling either. I don't know how well you got along with the local changelings, but if you could pass my thanks on to Bling for the excellent time her casino and hive provided while I was there I would appreciate it. But in terms of work, no, nothing else is required of you at this time."

On 2022-11-24 at 3:15 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Anyway, we'll have everything sorted for tonight no issue, I'd wager. We all just gotta go and tell some folks we'll be off for a few days.,"

All were in agreement then. Once they had left the Consul's office though Ardee had some questions, "The Consul is an Alicorn, right? that's what the little ones were supposed to be, what makes Alicorns different? Other than being bigger than normal ponies."

"Also, he said you have a former sibling? What's that about?"

 

(Void)

The young ponies got their stuff together quickly in preparation for their excursion, the two little ones being bundled one to Teal and the other to Toupé such that they could see all around but couldn't get away so as to minimize the risk of them getting lost. Elef then would be in charge of carrying whatever needed to be carried as he wasn't carrying a foal. Which likely meant nothing for this particular trip.

Soon enough they were ready to head out and see whatever in town Void wanted to show them on the way to the school. (I already described the school earlier along with it's surroundings. It is one street away from the central market. Feel free to include whatever encounters you want on the way there and I'll describe their reaction to the school itself in my next post)