private The Æther Project

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom@Windy Breeze

 

3 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

We have worked in agriculture since we arrived. It is very fulfilling work. What departments have you all been partaking in?"

".... Errand boy," Light replied.

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle

Windy felt herself smile as the lights went back, ”I can show you a few places you might find beautiful. If we can somehow get to the Fillyphines, I can show you the infamous Hoovesshores ruins after all of this is over” Hoovesshores was a resort town which lies in the north coast of Hoofbang island. While much of the town had not survive, the remains of a piece of wall of once the town hall and the completely intact building of Shorebreeze Academy are still standing In the midst of the lush green field and it's long grass which added to beautiful and sad scenery of the ruins. It would be hard to believe a place filled with tall vegetation had once been the foundation of a town with the population of 3,478 ponies with the additional number of tourists, mostly griffons who go there for trade and the fish industry, not to mention the coconut trade.

***

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Blitz Boom

“I work as a patrol guard” Shadow casually replied, “does not cost me much energy unless we have to chase criminals and loyalists” she dug into her food.

“I'm from the agricultural department, but I think everypony here knows that” Serene lean one shoulder onto the table. He turned to Light with a raised brow, “Errand boy? Mmm, I never heard that profession exist here. So, who are you working for, Light? Is it a unicorn stallion whose name is Top Secret?” he joked, giving Light a grin.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

5 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

@Illiad Easle

Windy felt herself smile as the lights went back, ”I can show you a few places you might find beautiful. If we can somehow get to the Fillyphines, I can show you the infamous Hoovesshores ruins after all of this is over” Hoovesshores was a resort town which lies in the north coast of Hoofbang island. While much of the town had not survive, the remains of a piece of wall of once the town hall and the completely intact building of Shorebreeze Academy are still standing In the midst of the lush green field and it's long grass which added to beautiful and sad scenery of the ruins. It would be hard to believe a place filled with tall vegetation had once been the foundation of a town with the population of 3,478 ponies with the additional number of tourists, mostly griffons who go there for trade and the fish industry, not to mention the coconut trade.

***

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Blitz Boom

“I work as a patrol guard” Shadow casually replied, “does not cost me much energy unless we have to chase criminals and loyalists” she dug into her food.

“I'm from the agricultural department, but I think everypony here knows that” Serene lean one shoulder onto the table. He turned to Light with a raised brow, “Errand boy? Mmm, I never heard that profession exist here. So, who are you working for, Light? Is it a unicorn stallion whose name is Top Secret?” he joked, giving Light a grin.

@Windy Breeze @Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

Light sighed. " I work for Queen Permu.... And was ordered to work for Apollo.... The one who's at the top of the food chain.... He ordered me to find traitors and loyalists aswell... Or else it will be my head.... So if any of you needs help. Just call me."

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

"Grizzly business to find those who would support Discord in his madness, but sadly a necessary one. I do not envy you your tasks. Though I appreciate the service you do, to keep us all safe. Nothing good would come from letting his supporters act out his will here. The unimaginable destruction it may cause... Utterly dreadful."

He's take a good portion of fish, and tear through it with his teeth, as easily as a pony would bite over their strawdog. Were there bones, the sound of them crunching would be reminiscent of pork rinds, if any of them knew that particular dish.

"I dread to ask, but have either of you thus far found any, or is it mostly a matter of routine?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

4 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"I dread to ask, but have either of you thus far found any, or is it mostly a matter of routine?"

@Blitz Boom @Windy Breeze @Illiad Easle

" Well I have...but it's hard to catch a changeling....." Light answered.

 

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle

“I haven't found any of those sneaky rodents yet” Shadow turned to Light, “A changeling, huh? Why would be a changeling become an ally to Discord? Isn't it him the reason why all of us lost our homes and forced into Æther in the first place?"

[Illiad Easle 3,127]

@Starforce

The General nodded, "They may not have had chaos magic when you knew them. HE is known to give chaos magic to his loyalists on occasion, which is why we scan everyone who comes aboard for it. They more than likely were a regular Earth pony when you knew them, and became a loyalist after the crisis. Do you know anyone who would meet that description?"

He listened patiently as the locations were revealed, "That is troubling, if they are placing those notes, either physically or magically, they would have to know the interiors of those areas. Did you notice any magic failings? No... that much would be evident on the note itself. So they didn't just guess on dropping them in. It was clearly deliberate."

If Spiral had any descriptions: "Well have the guards on high alert for anyone who looks like that, thank you for your efforts."

If she didn't : "No worries, we'll keep a vigilant eye out all the same. Let me know if you discover anything else suspicious."

In either case, unless she had something else to say, she'd be dismissed.

 

@Starforce (Missing @Jack Baker)

The investigator nodded, noting down everything she said. "Give me a moment to confirm this account with the others. Thank you for your cooperation."

They would leave the room for several minutes, muffled speaking could be heard from inside the room, then they walked back in, "Your account matches up with what the guards with you said, your compatriot, Raze, has not been so forthcoming. You and the others mentioned that he became aggressive and struck at the pipes when faced with a dead end. Why do you think he did that, how certain were you that the cart was taken down that path and not another one?"

 

@Windy Breeze

The junior guard looked a little down, "Yeah... they didn't leave much standing. There will be much to rebuild, but it will be interesting to see what's left standing, what monuments remain. I've heard from some of the senior guards that there was this big monument in Troy, the Dead Oasis, where they would pay tribute to all their honored dead, or anyone who died in the wars they fought. They kept a record of everyone who was left behind when the Æther left, and they want to add them to it once this is all over. Maybe they'll pay tribute to the other nations too, I hope so."

It wasn't much longer before the other guards returned, much to the relief of the junior guard. The leader of the group nodded to them, "Nothing to report? You're free to go, good work."

 

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Wildebeast spoke up, "Well, I did know a few changelings in my time before the crisis, they did like to have their hives in the forests when they could. Just like ponies they aren't all the same, each hive had it's own queen, and as such it's own values. I heard some of the queens sided with Discord, maybe this changeling came from one of those hives? What color is this changeling you're looking for? Maybe I met their hive?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

5 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Wildebeast spoke up, "Well, I did know a few changelings in my time before the crisis, they did like to have their hives in the forests when they could. Just like ponies they aren't all the same, each hive had it's own queen, and as such it's own values. I heard some of the queens sided with Discord, maybe this changeling came from one of those hives? What color is this changeling you're looking for? Maybe I met their hive?"

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle

" Wildebeast is correct, shadow. and not everyone here is as clean as you think they are, Especially the crimson red ones or was it the orange ones?... They're the bloodthirsty ones."

 

[Thundy]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy nodded and started to prepare the ingot molds at the appropriate numbers. "Sweet, now that I know the pipelines are nearby, I could transport the pieces so that way they could eventually be put together." Thundy thought to himself. 

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

"Sadly, creatures of all kinds, could be swayed to join his crusade. The state I've found some of my own kin in, tells me that it wasn't his forces that struck them down either.. The lure of power, or loss of hope for a different outcome, are regrettably things which may infect us all.

Colors of changelings are all but irrelevant to me, but I've felt, and smelled them before, in the patrols lurking about at times. I pray to the Earth Mother that no truly delusional fanatic have come into this place, seeking to rise to prominence in some horrendous way. There are enough sorrows below us as it is."

Brittle were one of those, who could tell fairly well if another being were a changeling, when she were calm enough to focus on such things, so she had spotted a few here and there over the years, trying to infiltrate, and lure survivors away. But she wasn't infallible, and things did still happen sadly, when she were not doing well. And as she hadn't for a while, there had been times when they simply had to rely on paranoia, and gut instinct. Things that Briar hoped they would not need here, but there would not be a taskforce, set out to find loyalists, if it were not a tangible threat, surely.

"Perhaps there are kinder topics we might rather speak about? Is there better things in your daily lives, than these hunts, which you may wish to share?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

5 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

"Sadly, creatures of all kinds, could be swayed to join his crusade. The state I've found some of my own kin in, tells me that it wasn't his forces that struck them down either.. The lure of power, or loss of hope for a different outcome, are regrettably things which may infect us all.

Colors of changelings are all but irrelevant to me, but I've felt, and smelled them before, in the patrols lurking about at times. I pray to the Earth Mother that no truly delusional fanatic have come into this place, seeking to rise to prominence in some horrendous way. There are enough sorrows below us as it is."

Brittle were one of those, who could tell fairly well if another being were a changeling, when she were calm enough to focus on such things, so she had spotted a few here and there over the years, trying to infiltrate, and lure survivors away. But she wasn't infallible, and things did still happen sadly, when she were not doing well. And as she hadn't for a while, there had been times when they simply had to rely on paranoia, and gut instinct. Things that Briar hoped they would not need here, but there would not be a taskforce, set out to find loyalists, if it were not a tangible threat, surely.

"Perhaps there are kinder topics we might rather speak about? Is there better things in your daily lives, than these hunts, which you may wish to share?"

@Illiad Easle@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom

" hmm it's a rare ability to detect a changeling in hiding even for other changelings....only a few select ones can do that... You my friend are a very special changeling. A lot of trouble and blessings will definitely try to find you. If you need anything or you're in need of help don't hesitate to ask." 

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle

On 2021-08-16 at 8:19 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The junior guard looked a little down, "Yeah... they didn't leave much standing. There will be much to rebuild, but it will be interesting to see what's left standing, what monuments remain. I've heard from some of the senior guards that there was this big monument in Troy, the Dead Oasis, where they would pay tribute to all their honored dead, or anyone who died in the wars they fought. They kept a record of everyone who was left behind when the Æther left, and they want to add them to it once this is all over. Maybe they'll pay tribute to the other nations too, I hope so."

“That would be nice of them to do. Let's hope they can find someone who isn't a loyalist” came Windy's casual hopeful reply. It was a sad reality many are still missing, or most likely passed away during this conflict, maybe a few due to natural causes. Building a monument is a way to respect and pay tribute for the unlucky ponies.

It wasn't long before the other guards and their leader return to them. Windy waited for the leader to finish the conversation with the junior guard before talking to him once more “What's your name?”

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih @Blitz Boom

Shadow found herself agreeing with Blitz. Life was perfect until a traitor comes and ruins everything “I concede to your statement"

8 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Perhaps there are kinder topics we might rather speak about? Is there better things in your daily lives, than these hunts, which you may wish to share?"

Somehow, Serene was quick to bring up a topic far away from any violence and betrayal “Other than us, have any of you made any friends here in the Æther?”

[Illiad Easle 3,127]

@Starforce

(I assume she walked out of the office after being dismissed)

Exiting the General's office she'd find that the secretary had stepped away from her desk, a small sign indicating that she'd be back shortly. It looked like a few papers had fallen off of the desk, though one of them stood out as it seemed to be of the same weathered parchment that the other notes she had gotten had been on. This one was blank, or at least the face up side was.

If she flipped the paper over she'd briefly catch a glimpse of a rune scrawled on the other side before it activated, suddenly teleporting her somewhere else. She would find herself on a metal catwalk surrounded on all sides by pipes. By the gentle swaying she was fairly confident she was still on the Project, but where exactly she was unsure.

"Sorry about the sudden teleportation, but it was the only way to ensure you wouldn't be followed." A voice spoke from behind her, and out from around a corner walked an earth pony, barely recognizable as Tower Shield, he had lost some muscle mass since she had known him as an expedition guard, his form trim like a well-traveled scholar, "You've aged rather well, all things considered, how long has it been? 200 years? How did you manage it Spiral?"

 

@Starforce

The investigator nodded, noting down what Maud said, "Thank you for your cooperation. Someone should come for you shortly, given what you and the other guards said you should be released without further issue."

The investigator left, and about fifteen minutes later a large griffon entered the room. His presence exuded power and self confidence, and Maud would no doubt notice that his talons were coated in Minostralium. "You are Maud yes? Maud Pie? You have my condolences about your family, I'm sure they'd be proud of you for what you've done today. You see, we have reason to believe that Raze, your partner, was actually one of the rebels, and your brave actions prevented him from succeeding in destroying the project." He paused a moment but continued, "Now, there's still the issue of the lost cart of Minostralium, who knows what nefarious plans those rebels have in store for it. No doubt you want to see them brought to justice? Well, I think you are uniquely qualified to hunt down these rebels and recover the Minostralium. As Captain of the Æther Project, I can give you full access everywhere and anywhere you'd need to go to find them. How does that sound?"

 

@Jack Baker
(Due to inactivity, you have been placed in jail under suspicion of being a rebel. You are in a jail cell when you are able to return)

 

@Courageous Thunder Dash

It would take about an hour for the refined Minostralium to make it all the way down to where Thundy had set the ingot molds. As it poured in Thundy could feel the raw magical potential of the metal, like any spell he tried to cast would be far easier just standing nearby to this much. No wonder the O5 wanted it as far away from Apollo as possible.

As the last of the refined metal dripped out of the channels some of the workers started to make their way down to where he was to collect it. He'd have to move fast if he wanted to get away.

 

@Windy Breeze

The junior guard seemed surprised that Windy took a continued interest in him, "Me? Oh, my name's Starboard. I, er, I suppose civility would dictate that I ask your name too then. So, uh, what's your name?"

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih @Windy Breeze

Wildebeast followed along with the conversation, in regards to the changeling colors he said, "I don't think I've met any red or orange ones, the ones in the forest were mostly purple and teal, but I did hear from some changelings that red changelings were bad news, some sort of superstition about how red changelings belong to a hive whose queen went crazy and started murdering ponies and changelings. In any case, I haven't met any red changelings on the ship, thankfully if the story is to be believed."

Per the change in topic Wildebeast smiled, "I hope you'll be able to at least count myself among your friends, though I'd be happy to try harder if I haven't yet qualified."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle

“Windy Breeze, at your service" Windy salutes at him. She hoped he would respond as if she's just a nobody, her status as a Wonderbolt was just giving her frustrations everytime a group of fans surround her, ask questions and beg for autographs. She's just a pony like everyone else and she gets tired; so does the others.

If they are even still alive that is. Windy long lost patience and gave up waiting for any Wonderbolts to step into the Æther. They were either dead or now loyalists; brainwashed into siding Discord.

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Serene raised an eyebrow at Wildebeest “Are you worried we're not going to count you as our friend?" A smile split his face, “You don't have to worry about that, Wild; while I may not call you one doesn't mean I see you as a friend”

Shadow took a moment to gulp her food to her stomach before turning to Wildebeest “You're a friend to me"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2021-08-23 at 1:11 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Per the change in topic Wildebeast smiled, "I hope you'll be able to at least count myself among your friends, though I'd be happy to try harder if I haven't yet qualified."

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle

" You're cool by my book.... Actually all of you guys are.... So you all are definitely friends...just forgive me if I forget your names.... It's a problem of mine... Sorry..."

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Kujamih @Windy Breeze @Illiad Easle

On 2021-08-20 at 6:00 AM, Kujamih said:

" hmm it's a rare ability to detect a changeling in hiding even for other changelings....only a few select ones can do that... You my friend are a very special changeling. A lot of trouble and blessings will definitely try to find you. If you need anything or you're in need of help don't hesitate to ask." 

Brittle whimpered slightly, and tried to make herself look smaller and hard to see, by crumbling down, and lean even closer into Briar.

"Sadly, it is more a cause of worry for her, as her state of mind does not always allow her to focus enough, to be able to tell. It makes her worried of her kin being around. Though worse yet is it when she does note one. *sigh* Our experiences with other changelings have been... Less than ideal, and it does not help her fears, to then have these experiences cloud things further. Though I hope someday, she will be able to move past them."

He'd run a hoof gently down Brittle's mane, and feel her leaning in. Still munching on the jelly that she had been given, while her heartrate slowly, yet steadily decreased it's former, frantic state.

On 2021-08-20 at 9:01 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Somehow, Serene was quick to bring up a topic far away from any violence and betrayal “Other than us, have any of you made any friends here in the Æther?”

Thankfully, the topic would shift soon too, leaving them able to move towards gentler topics, such as this regarding friends.

"I'm afraid we've been focused mostly on work, yet I do consider the tutor that generously is spending time to help Brittle get educated, and our fellow field workers to be if not friends, then at least valued companions. I wouldn't wish to put labels on them that they may not prefer at this current point in time. Except for Wildebeat here that is. I consider him to be a friend, and as Brittle have spoken with him, I feel as if she does too.

What of you? Have you made interesting connections, since arriving on this marvelous sanctuary?"

Briar would suddenly wrinkle his nose, and *look* to the side. The expression on his face seemed bemused, and confused for a moment, before returning to the ones he were communicating with currently. It were odd, but for a moment, he could have sworn that a waft of something unusual for this place, had reached his nostrils. He wasn't entirely sure what he thought he smelled, but he would wager a guess and say some kind of combination of engine grease, and sulfur. Rather perplexing, but it seemed to no longer linger, and he found no source for it, so maybe it were but a vague waft, coming from an engine worker of some kind? Probably nothing.

On 2021-08-23 at 7:11 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Wildebeast followed along with the conversation, in regards to the changeling colors he said, "I don't think I've met any red or orange ones, the ones in the forest were mostly purple and teal, but I did hear from some changelings that red changelings were bad news, some sort of superstition about how red changelings belong to a hive whose queen went crazy and started murdering ponies and changelings. In any case, I haven't met any red changelings on the ship, thankfully if the story is to be believed."

Per the change in topic Wildebeast smiled, "I hope you'll be able to at least count myself among your friends, though I'd be happy to try harder if I haven't yet qualified."

"Worry not. As stated, you do count amongst them. Though I do still think a delightful planting would do you wonders. Pray tell, would you be more intrigued if I instead proposed it as a bonding experience between living fauna, and insisted you partook in this for the sake of embracing my culture?"

He were obviously jesting, but he found that this mild teasing were a constant in their friendship, and he gladly embraced it. it were delightfully refreshing at times. As could it be to be planted, but as said, he were merely speaking in jest. Currently, anyway.

On 2021-08-24 at 3:36 PM, Kujamih said:

" You're cool by my book.... Actually all of you guys are.... So you all are definitely friends...just forgive me if I forget your names.... It's a problem of mine... Sorry..."

"Sounds as if we are all one large, friendly gathering then. And worry not of names. It will come to you in time, and I have faith that you will not be able to mistake me for another, with any degree of ease. And if you do, it may be another of my kin, so do please bring word about that if possible.

Might I ask you all as a group something though? As one not familiar with color for rather obvious reasons, what is the significance with that, when it comes to changelings? Is it an identifiable marker of their hive mother, or some kind of tribal, or social branding of a kind?"

[Illiad Easle 3,127]

@Starforce

Tower's expression grew more and more concerned as Spiral continued speaking, "I stand corrected, you've aged terribly. When last we met you were an ambitious, but still kind individual. To see you now, having enslaved a fellow pony just to preserve your own life? With all this time you could have gotten yourself a body, the Spawn are all pretty much devoid of identity, willing empty husks with perfectly good bodies, you could have taken one of them and set your savior free."

He shook his head, "You disappoint me Spiral. I have no place for a greedy usurper in my plans. I had hoped to make use of your knowledge of lost arcana, but not at this price. Still, to all others I offered something they needed, and I was prepared to offer you your own body. I captured a spawn, a unicorn mare, in excellent condition, even approximately the same color as you were. I suppose this gift will also be a test, will you take this new body, and free the one you've held captive for so long?"

 

The griffon smiled, "Excellent. I hope you'll start immediately. Head over to the armory when you're ready, show them this," he gave her a card that bore a special symbol, "And they'll provide you with whatever you need. That card will also get you in anywhere you need to go." His expression suddenly grew very serious. "DON'T lose it. If I find out that, through your negligence, this card fell into the hooves of the rebels... I'll kill you myself."

With that he went over to the door and held it open for her, "I hope to hear good news from you soon."

 

@Windy Breeze

Starboard smiled, "Good to meet you Windy, I hope we get assigned together in the future. I'm going to get some rest, you stay safe!"

Starboard would head off towards the guard residences, leaving Windy to do as she pleased.

 

@Windy Breeze @Kujamih @Blitz Boom

Wildebeast looked pleased to hear that he was considered a friend by most of those at the table, "Wonderful, I am glad to hear that the feelings of friendship are reciprocated."

When asked about changeling coloration Wildebeast offered some information, "While I don't know first hoof, for the most part it seems that changelings belonging to a particular hive all have the same coloration, whether they are born that way, marked before leaving the hive, or if it has something to do with what they eat, I don't know personally. But I think it has something to do with the food, given the different emotion gels are distinct colors and the changelings here mostly choose to eat the gels that match their coloration."

[Thundy]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy headed for the collecting area and started to collect the metal, feeling stronger than before. "Wow, no wonder why this is so valuable. I feel much stronger than before..." Thundy said as he continued to collect the metal. He then headed towards his destination. 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom

Light would nod his head with agreement to wildebeast.

Light might not have gained much lead to his quest, but has gained new friends that might help him in the long run.

If no further events would occur, Light would then bid his farewell to his new friends and wonder off to correct what is wrong in this world.

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle

------Windy Breeze------

Despite having just known each other, Windy wished to meet and talk Starboard again, maybe they can even eat to gether during lunch break.

“You too, Starboard!” Windy waved at him. She would spend a few more minutes wondering the halls, still wary of what happened when the alarm was sounded. Convinced the Æther is now safe with the criminal possibly caught, she decided to make use of her free time to her apartment room.

@Illiad Easle @Starforce @Blitz Boom

------Serene Spring and Shadow Trail------

“It could help them tell if a changeling is a member of their hive” Serene added, “Richville has a few changeling ancestors during its first establishment and while most of them are defectors from Queen Chrysalis's hive, there are few who's carapace are purple, yellow, and white. They make good neighbors”

“Your town has changelings even during the first part of its history?” an intrigued Shadow gasped.

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Illiad Easle @Windy Breeze @Kujamih

On 2021-08-29 at 7:24 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"While I don't know first hoof, for the most part it seems that changelings belonging to a particular hive all have the same coloration, whether they are born that way, marked before leaving the hive, or if it has something to do with what they eat, I don't know personally. But I think it has something to do with the food, given the different emotion gels are distinct colors and the changelings here mostly choose to eat the gels that match their coloration."

"Is that so? How utterly perplexing, though I can imagine the food related one being relevant. I hear the various hives have preferences, so that preference, if thought of as various kinds of food, could well cause the colorations then. Again, colors are not a concept that means much to me, though it is curious still. If it is hive related... Perhaps there is yet some hope to understand what hive you came from, Brittle, before you were taken."

Brittle whimpered softly, and kept focus on her food. She were not one to question what sort of emotion she were offered, as she were often starving in the circus, and had to take anything that she were able to get hold of. Yet since joining with Briar, unbeknownst to her - as she wasn't good at understanding too many nuances in what she ate, and thought it might be love she were eating from Briar - she had fed primarily on an emotion he had in abundance, and were in fact, her preference: Empathy. Briar were one who harnessed a great deal of pride in his work, yet more than anything, he cared deeply for those he felt of as down-throdden, and in need. First that were his variance in his own species, and then later, as he met Brittle, it became for her. As they then met each other again at Ponyville, and he learned of her life, and why she did not have a home to return to, after he helped her escape, it began to increase for her, as he took responsibility for her care.

Others he met that were in trouble, he cared for too, yet he had never any shortage of empathy for her to eat. What hive that might be part of, were hard to say though. he didn't hang out with changelings normally, so he didn't really know this, and couldn't see colors to guess. The warm pink, which seemed to get a few shades lighter, the closer it got to the center of her stomach, were probably something that someone would be able to connect to a hive. He just hadn't thought of it before.

11 hours ago, Windy Breeze said:

“It could help them tell if a changeling is a member of their hive” Serene added, “Richville has a few changeling ancestors during its first establishment and while most of them are defectors from Queen Chrysalis's hive, there are few who's carapace are purple, yellow, and white. They make good neighbors”

“Your town has changelings even during the first part of its history?” an intrigued Shadow gasped.

"I find myself more surprised that defectors of that particular hive were so open about that fact. From what I hear, that hive were not exactly of a high social standing, with the general populace of Equestria. Though of course, I do base that off of the murmurs I hear in the street, more than a general, peer reviewed study, so it may well be that what I heard, were somewhat exaggerated."

His left ear perked up, as he heard, and bit note in, somepony coming in here. This one being a little more special, as it seemed to be a security guard, whom were in a rush. Frantically wandering around, in apparent worry. Sweat had a certain smell, depending on what sort of emotion one were under, and he definitely detected her with a tinge of fear as well, befitting the frantic search she appeared to be on. Perhaps she dropped something important in the area?

Unbeknownst to him - as he could really only tell the shape of what she were holding, and it may well just be a walkie talkie - she were also carrying a tracking device. Which began to ping, so she knew she were near. It just wasn't accurate enough to let her see exactly where what she were looking for were. She seemed to do whatever were going on well by herself though, so Briar remained seated. It were probably just some sort of machine too, and he wouldn't know the first thing about that sort of construction.

Edited September 5, 2021 by Blitz Boom

[Illiad Easle 3,127]

@Starforce

Tower watched silently as Spiral clarified her earlier statements, and waited a moment after she finished speaking before responding, "I suppose we'll see then. What I want from you is two-fold, first: You'll be responsible for bringing her back up to speed once you return her body to her, as well as fulfilling whatever cost she deems fair for having occupied it as long as you have. Second, I want your loyalty. I will give you the gift willingly, no strings attached, because I want you to join me willingly in ensuring the safety and success of this project."

He turned down one of the walkways, "Now, come with me, your new body is waiting."

Tower would lead the way down the winding walkways of the pipeworks until they reached a hidden room, inside a pony lay unconscious in a cage, a unicorn mare, her colors were faded and her mark nearly invisible, a common trait of the spawn of Tartarus, but she appeared otherwise in a good state of health. Tower motioned Spiral forward towards the spawn, "Do with the gift as you wish."

 

Apollo raised an eyebrow, but accepted the card back, "Hmm. Clearly the reports of your bravery and intelligence were nothing but baseless praise. I had thought someone like you would understand the importance of an all access card not falling into enemy hooves, and that the highest precautions would need to be taken to prevent its misuse."

He waved a talon dismissively as he tucked the card safely away, "Go then, I'll find someone more... competent... to take care of this."

With that he would leave the room, leaving the door open behind him.

 

@Courageous Thunder Dash

He wasn't able to push the cart too far towards the pipeworks entrance before some of the other workers noticed, "Hey! Where do you think you're going? The ingots are supposed to go to the warehouse!"

A number of workers started to hurry down to him, if he moved quickly he'd be able to get everything through the door before they reached him, especially if he caused some sort of distraction.

 

@Kujamih

(You need to give me a direction as to where you want to go so I can tell you what happens. There's plenty to investigate and explore.)

Exiting the cafeteria, Light would pass by some guards talking about the earlier incident in the Pipeworks, a cart of ore having been stolen.

 

@Windy Breeze

Arriving at her apartment, she'd find Plein sitting outside Shadow's apartment, Plein looked over when Windy arrived, "You know when your friend will be back? She locked the door so I can't go in and get my stuff."

 

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom

Wildebeast nodded at Shadow's question, "I've found that the further one gets from Canterlot, the more favorably changelings were viewed, some outskirt towns and villages did have undisguised changelings, the forest I lived in for instance, changelings were the only ones trusted to offer safe passage through it. Sure, after the wedding incident, public perception of changelings shifted everywhere, but it did embolden some queens to talk directly with local leaders to stop rumors before they could tear the town apart."

Wildebeast looked over at what had caught Briar's attention, before chuckling, "I see she's escaped again," He turned to the group, "If any of you see an energetic young mare running about, best keep your distance, her ideas rarely leave bystanders wholly unscathed."

[Thundy]

@Illiad Easle

"Shoot..." Thundy said to himself. He then looked for a distraction on his belt. "Aha!" He said to himself as he took a small concussion pulser that would let out a single pulse blast to stun nearby foes. He rolled it on the ground towards the workers, then proceeded to push the remaining stuff through the door. He then shut the door behind him and proceeded towards his destination. 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

 

Light had found a new lead.

" I smell a plot..."

Light would then follow the gossiping guards and introduce himself.

" Good day to you fellow guards! My name is Light and Apollo has assigned me as one of the new head of security! And that means Apollo will have my head if I don't do my job. I'm sure you know his temper right?"

Light is trying to sweet talk his way to make the guards talk more on what they know, by threatening them from the wrath of Apollo.

" So it would be nice if you could help me out on that juicy gossip you were just talking about in the pipe works. I'm not afraid to bring you guys down with me aswell." Light said kindly."

( If no serious events would happen and Light continues to successfully harass the guards he would get some more information and head to the pipe works in a rush.)

[Blitz Boom 4,620]

@Illiad Easle @Windy Breeze

"A reasonable, well thought out approach by the changeling queens, I must say. When things are simply left to fester, and gets ignored, it can brew into quite the storm. This heads on approach, likely saved them much heartache, though I can imagine it were not perfect. Paranoia is a terrible thing, which can cause quite the considerable amount of problems. But I'm sure that if you knew changelings, you'd know so already. I hardly knew of them. The only one I felt some certainty in having met for the longest time, being Brittle. They do an impressive work of hiding, even from one whose senses are high, like myself."

On 2021-09-07 at 3:46 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Wildebeast looked over at what had caught Briar's attention, before chuckling, "I see she's escaped again," He turned to the group, "If any of you see an energetic young mare running about, best keep your distance, her ideas rarely leave bystanders wholly unscathed."

"...I have a bad feeling about this. The mare you refer to... Might she smell of gunpowder, by chance?"

He had picked up the vague waft again. Though now it were more consistent, and he had a direction to go by as well. Specifically, the entrance to the cafeteria, where the others would be able to see the head of a young, unicorn mare poking in, with a mischievous grin on her face. She were orange based, and had patched of dark grey in her fur at random intervals. Which is what smelled of gunpowder. A rather nasty solution that had exploded, ingraining itself in her pores, and coloring them. The smell were not so much from that, as the continued use of various explosive powders, though it'd be hard to say. Her eyes were also slightly red, and the mane on her, were slicked backwards, in a sort of short mohawk, looking like a strip of fire. Even the colors fitted it, and as the mane moved, it almost gave off the illusion of the *fire* burning.

She'd sneak in, revealing that while the mane were short, her tail was massive. Bulbous, and fluffy, looking like several explosions had been frozen in her tail, which were larger than her torso. She stood at about the regular size of a thirteen year old, young mare, if a few inches taller, though the look on her smiling face, told more of a foalish mind, than that of a mare. As for her cutie mark, which got well visible, as she snuck up on the guard, it were that of a lit bomb, with a smiling face.

When she were right up at the guard's face, that were starting to look under the tables, she'd finally speak up, looking like she were about to burst out laughing.

"Have you checked if she snuck into the kitchen?"

"I'd think the kitchen staff wo- Gaaah!"

The mare tumbled forward a little, as she realized who were talking to her, and she got a minor shock. The one who had pranked her though, were sitting on her flank, laughing heartily.

"Why do you keep doing that?!"

"Because it keeps working, duh. Loosen up, grumpy."

"You know my name is Strumpet. Now behave, and get back to the-"

"Oooh, lookit that. They got jelly."

She more or less completely ignored the guard, and went up to the counter to ask for a small plate of jelly. The guard? Sighed, and looked a little dismayed, but she were getting annoyingly used to this, sadly. Blitz were a good inventor, and helpful as an engineer, but she were also one with far too much energy, and a mind that needed her to stay under observation, so she didn't suddenly make something that would cause issues. They learned that the hard way a few years back, when she snuck off to explore, got stuck in a utility closet, and somehow managed to make a sort od rudimentary scrap bot out of the pieces, that barged the door open for her. Then proceeded to scramble around the area, bashing in all other doors it saw too, causing quite a stir, until someone finally got over and stomped it out. And that were not even counting the minor explosives, or prank glitter bombs.

Yet still, she had gotten older, and less foalish. Sadly not enough to not be bored, and play tricks on her monitors though. With some frequency.

"How... Peculiar. It seems there's still those who entertain games and fun in many places."