private The Æther Project

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

7 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"Oh? Is there more to that story, or would you prefer to not speak of it? I would not judge you, if it were in a less than stellar manner you were there, if it helps. It's a new world, and I believe that us who are alive, should yet try and give one another a chance, to show they can emerge from the ashes, a better being

" What impeccable timing, I really love you Blitz." He quietly murmurs.

" Oh look she's waving at us." Light says, as he tries to divert the topic.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Kujamih

The tutor was growing more and more uncomfortable the longer Light spoke to her, and was shocked when he winked at her after such a suggestive comment, she stood from the table, "Yes actually, your lips."

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom

She turned to Brittle and Briar, "I'm sorry, I... I need to go. You two know where to find me if you need anything. I'll come by your apartment once the cycle is over to see if you're up to joining the trip I mentioned earlier."

She'd then leave before Light could make any more comments.

 

@Starforce

There was only one copy of the list on the wall, and it would disappear when they tried to get anyone else to see it, only to reappear once anyone else wasn't looking, with the added phrase: "For your eyes only" at the top.

(Per the Cycle, they've all been through a cycle before, near when they first got on the Æther, so it is only new to Trixie)

They wouldn't get much out of the ponies at this juncture, as once the announcement went out everyone started heading back to their apartments to wait out the cycle, and they'd recommend the same to the trio of mares, offering that a bed was the best place to be during a rough or long cycle.

Still, waiting out the cycle would given them time to study the list in greater detail:

The paper was divided into a few sections:

The Traditionalists:

This faction is primarily Trojan, and believe that Acting Consul Play Write should be in charge of the Æther project, given Consul Illiad Easle would have been in charge had he decided to come aboard. Play Write himself is unconvinced that he should be the leader of the project, but the Traditionalists will likely fall in line behind anyone that Play Write supports as a potential leader. Getting his support will be crucial. His opinion is swayed by First Mare and Chief Engineer Silver Easle, who hasn't yet successfully convinced him to step up as leader, and Plein Easle, who he has cared for since her father's presumed death by Discord.

Appealing to Trojan history and culture will also improve your standing with this group.

The Equestrians:

Maud is already likely a strong candidate that they will support. Equestrian culture puts a strong focus on Family and Lineage. Given Maud is sister to an Element of Harmony, thus strongly related to Princess Twilight, they should have little issue accepting her right to rule.

The Changelings:

Queen Permu is uninterested in leading the project, despite having experience running the Trojan Empire from the shadows for centuries. She will likely lend her support to any compenent leader who is willing to understand and respect changeling culture.

The Loyalists:

These are currently loyal to Apollo, they respect power and the ability to command respect. They are made up mostly of the more intellectual and militaristic types. One would need to secure the support of a large number of head scientists, engineers, pilots, predictors, and military officers to sway this group. But you won't need to get all of them, if you got a quarter of them combined with the other groups, you'd have enough to sway the final group.

The Status-Quo:

Mostly made up of those who have been picked up in the cycles, they are happy so long as things do not change drastically, and are afraid to do anything that might threaten their safety here on the project. If you get strong support from the major groups, they will be willing to support you against Apollo.

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Silver looked surprised, "Oh? You know those ponies? That one that just left, she's your tutor isn't she? Who are the others?"

 

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

Upon reviewing the various factions as listed they would begin to talk quietly amongst themselves about what their plans were. For Starters, Maud knew that she would practically have the Equestrians in her pocket without a problem - she is a sister of an element of harmony after all. The Traditionalists would prose a problem, as neither of them knew anything about the Trojans at all. But it was such a large group, that in either case with Maud being leader she would allow them to act equally just like anyone else was. As for the changelings, Maud and the others have no biases against them even as faced with their encounters with Red. Anyone is welcome under Maud's leadership, no matter their race or class.

As for the Loyalists? Spiral knew she would be able to manipulate some of them to join her side. Spiral herself would probably be liked among the loyalists thanks to her Witty nature. They were going to need those who have these skills in order to maintain and lead the project, so they would forgive any loyalties anyone had to apollo. The Status-Quo would be a non issue, if Maud was able to garner the support of the others.

Maud herself would propose the idea of Democracy for all - the idea of Monarchs ruling and all powerful classes dominating the common ranks was something that she recognized as an issue, after Spiral mentioned that. Spiral would propose the idea of creating a constitution, ratifying the rights of all and outlining the various proposals everyone had. Spiral would also bring in the concept of fair, honest and open debate about ideas so long as one didn't propose those that were against any particular group. Maud also, would hypothetically seek election within such a system but would accept her defeat if the people wanted someone else.

All in all, they all agreed upon a system of which all groups would work harmoniously for the betterment of all conscious beings. Spiral would have many ideas for transparency of leaders, so that trust can be built between the common populace and all groups involved with leadership. The times of leaders ruling for life, kings and queens (although they would still have a rank, but not over everyone as a whole), and unfair rulers were over. It was time to move forward into the future as one united banner that can serve as a force of unity and Equality between all conscious races. All of the races could perhaps specialize in a certain task or guild, to fit together like cogs in one ultimate system to provide for the common good of all.

For once, Maud would smile genuinely upon thinking over, and discussing such a concept. Spiral, no matter how mischievous she is - genuinely supports such an idea, and perhaps would vie for leadership later down the line if such an idea was to actually get momentum. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Starforce @Illiad Easle

On 2022-03-20 at 1:00 AM, Kujamih said:

" What impeccable timing, I really love you Blitz." He quietly murmurs.

" Oh look she's waving at us." Light says, as he tries to divert the topic.

Hmm, it appeared he had hit upon a touchy subject. No matter then. He would play along, and ask no more of it. Light had the right to his privacy, as they all did.

As for Blitz, she'd seem more giddy, as she noticed that Light had bit notice in her presence. Must mean it were okay to approach, and Grump wasn't here to stop her this time.

On 2022-03-20 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She turned to Brittle and Briar, "I'm sorry, I... I need to go. You two know where to find me if you need anything. I'll come by your apartment once the cycle is over to see if you're up to joining the trip I mentioned earlier."

She'd then leave before Light could make any more comments.

Whilst Blitz moved closer, the tutor would leave, and Briar briefly turning his attention to Light. There should be enough time to cover something quickly here.

"Might I suggest that if you seek her favor, you approach her less forcefully? I traveled far and wide, and rare did I see this degree of... Overtly direct approach, function as intended. Case in point, she appears to find you detestable currently. Which I will assume, were not your intent, no?"

Ponies and evergrown, were not too far off, in how one approached one another. And his observations over the years, had helped him to grasp things a little better too, though he wouldn't call himself an equine professional. Earth Mother no, there were still much fro him to learn. Yet he felt rather confident about this particular assessment of his.

On 2022-03-20 at 5:51 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Silver looked surprised, "Oh? You know those ponies? That one that just left, she's your tutor isn't she? Who are the others?"

"I think she was? I dunno. I don't interact a lot with the school workers. I get homework, I do it, they take it. Lots more important stuff to do."

Blitz didn't need much oversight, when it came to doing her homework. Usually if there were a description, or a logical way to do it, she'd be able to manage fine, then get that done, and on to some more important work. Didn't leave her a lot of leisure time though, which granted, might be one more reason why she tended to sneak off at times. A bit of want, for social interaction, outside of the labs.

"The others I met yesterday, when I was having fun with Grump. You gotta see them. The one with closed eyes are a plant pony! Come ooon."

She'd bounce towards the group, excited to show them to Silver. The mare would perhaps find this group somewhat interesting, with Light being as he were, then the evergrown Briar, who'd *look* towards her with closed eyelids as usual, when she approached, as give her a big, sharp-toothed smile. Then in the corner, Brittle. Finishing her meal slowly, and trying to hide in Briar's shadow a little, as the two approached. She looked pretty strange for a changeling, with her exoskeleton having multiple colors, and the same for her equine hair and tail, so she tended to stand out in a crowd. Not ideal for her, but she didn't know how to change forms at will. She didn't have the initiate knowledge, or even the instinct, to know how to control it.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

42 minutes ago, Blitz Boom said:

Might I suggest that if you seek her favor, you approach her less forcefully? I traveled far and wide, and rare did I see this degree of... Overtly direct approach, function as intended. Case in point, she appears to find you detestable currently. Which I will assume, were not your intent, no?"

 

On 2022-03-20 at 12:51 PM, Illiad Easle said:

She turned to Brittle and Briar, "I'm sorry, I... I need to go. You two know where to find me if you need anything. I'll come by your apartment once the cycle is over to see if you're up to joining the trip I mentioned earlier."

She'd then leave before Light could make any more comments.

"Was I really? I thought I allured her? I guess she's the kind of pony who is...shy I guess? Aloof? Mind saying I'm sorry for her if a chance pass by? That's the last time I'll listen in Molotov's quick liners..." He smiled with a bit of shame painted on his grin.

 

Meanwhile as Blitz and her company approaches, Light would casually wave at Blitz to check if this one knows him.

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Starforce

Maud would likely be surprised to discover how much her ideas had in common with the Trojan Traditionalist philosophy, and how much it might clash with the deep seated beliefs held by the more noble blooded Equestrians and the Loyalists. Still, she'd have to get the word out, see what the citizens thought, but that could wait until after the Cycle.

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

While two of the ponies there were rather unique, they weren't mechanical in nature, so far as she could see, so they didn't really pique her interest, although, she mused inwardly, Ziggy would likely have been all over them in a heartbeat. She hoped the Zebra medic was doing well at the Blackwater Bastion, they hadn't been able to speak since the crisis. Still, Silver would be polite, "Hello there, Blitz here says she knows you, I hope she hasn't been causing you any trouble?"

 

@Starforce @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Another announcement would come over the system, "The Cycle will begin in 15 minutes, please secure all loose items and creatures."

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Silver didn't look concerned, but the kitchen staff was busy storing everything away, "Best if we got somewhere safe, do you live near here? If not, I know a place nearby that's fairly comfortable to wait out the Cycle in."

 

(I'll be cycling the project in my next post, secure yourselves (or don't) in your next post)

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

Maud was indeed surprised at this, but she knew that her relations with the Elements and being full Equestrian blood was sure to earn points. She was open to changing her ideas if it was needed but as for now, she quite liked her idea. Some form of compromise was needed most likely, and they would take the time to head back to their room to wait out the cycle. If they would be unable to reach their room in time, they would have waited somewhere else that was safe.  

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

5 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Starforce

Maud would likely be surprised to discover how much her ideas had in common with the Trojan Traditionalist philosophy, and how much it might clash with the deep seated beliefs held by the more noble blooded Equestrians and the Loyalists. Still, she'd have to get the word out, see what the citizens thought, but that could wait until after the Cycle.

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

While two of the ponies there were rather unique, they weren't mechanical in nature, so far as she could see, so they didn't really pique her interest, although, she mused inwardly, Ziggy would likely have been all over them in a heartbeat. She hoped the Zebra medic was doing well at the Blackwater Bastion, they hadn't been able to speak since the crisis. Still, Silver would be polite, "Hello there, Blitz here says she knows you, I hope she hasn't been causing you any trouble?"

 

@Starforce @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Another announcement would come over the system, "The Cycle will begin in 15 minutes, please secure all loose items and creatures."

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Silver didn't look concerned, but the kitchen staff was busy storing everything away, "Best if we got somewhere safe, do you live near here? If not, I know a place nearby that's fairly comfortable to wait out the Cycle in."

 

(I'll be cycling the project in my next post, secure yourselves (or don't) in your next post)

"You don't mind if I tag along then? Thank you for the offer."

He would follow Silver along.

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Starforce @Illiad Easle

On 2022-03-23 at 10:08 AM, Kujamih said:

"Was I really? I thought I allured her? I guess she's the kind of pony who is...shy I guess? Aloof? Mind saying I'm sorry for her if a chance pass by? That's the last time I'll listen in Molotov's quick liners..." He smiled with a bit of shame painted on his grin.

"You are... Familiar, with her brother? Perhaps she would like to hear that. I can't imagine that there are many here, whom had much of a connection with him. It might give her some comfort to know."

He would neglect to mention something about the tutor, since quite frankly, it seemed rather clear, that Light had issues understanding what repelled his advances. He's pass along the apology, yet beyond that, it were up to Light himself, to salvage the situation.

On 2022-03-23 at 10:08 AM, Kujamih said:

Meanwhile as Blitz and her company approaches, Light would casually wave at Blitz to check if this one knows him.

Blitz had zero idea who this were, at all, but hey, he were waving, so she'd respond to his waving, with an increased smile on her face. Not manic levels yet though, which were good. Most who knew her, understood that when she got that sort of smile, she had an idea, that were probably rather volatile. This were still just friendly, albeit very enthusiastic. Which were a fair way of just describing Blitz in general.

On 2022-03-27 at 8:05 PM, Illiad Easle said:

While two of the ponies there were rather unique, they weren't mechanical in nature, so far as she could see, so they didn't really pique her interest, although, she mused inwardly, Ziggy would likely have been all over them in a heartbeat. She hoped the Zebra medic was doing well at the Blackwater Bastion, they hadn't been able to speak since the crisis. Still, Silver would be polite, "Hello there, Blitz here says she knows you, I hope she hasn't been causing you any trouble?"

Ziggy would still be alive, albeit busy as ever. War hadn't exactly diminished the need for medics, and even though they were in a safe space, that didn't mean there weren't plenty to do. Beings to help as best she could, others to try and teach basic medical practices, sifting through whatever medical books had been cobbled together, to try and be able to assist with proper surgeries... Her boundless energy were coming in handy, that much were sure, though some days tested her ability to remain uplifted, as she could no longer claim to have a track record, of no dead patients. The sad reality of war, and her not having official training to be a surgeon, but having to rely on pure book knowledge. Hopefully Beck was still alive too, so that she had him in her life, to ease up things, on the darker days.

As for the here and now however, Silver's talk would be meet with a war smile, and a bow from Briar.

"Perish the thought, madamme. The excited young filly, have caused me no trouble.

Briar Trapjaw, at your service. And this is my ward, Brittle Buzz."

Brittle wouldn't say anything, but she would weakly lift a hoof, in greeting. She felt secure where she were right now, so there were a little less nervousness about dealing with whomever this were, and Blitz.

"I promise I won't try and cause trouble for you."

Little comfort for those who knew her, as she didn't tend to intentionally cause trouble. It was more coincidence, than anything malicious.

On 2022-03-27 at 8:05 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Silver didn't look concerned, but the kitchen staff was busy storing everything away, "Best if we got somewhere safe, do you live near here? If not, I know a place nearby that's fairly comfortable to wait out the Cycle in."

"It is not far, although I am not certain if there is enough space for us all. I have not gone through a cycle, with this many beings numbering in the room, thus far. Mayhap it would be better to go with your suggestion, and not risk it, just to be certain? I would hate to be the cause of any of you, getting hurt."

Brittle were done eating, and he were done several minutes earlier than that. So they were ready to move along. All they needed, were a direction to follow in.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Silver would lead the way out of the Cafeteria to one of the typically ignored access points to the pipeworks, then along some of the catwalks to a door labeled "S. Easle, Chief Engineer." Which she opened by pressing her hoof against the scanner. The inside was rather spartan, bare, like the office hadn't been used in some time. "Sorry about the dust, I don't usually work out of this office, but I designed it to be comfortable during cycles."

She pulled a lever on the wall and several padded chairs emerged from a recess that they could strap themselves into if they so desired. Silver elected to just sit in one as the announcement that the cycle was about to begin came over the PA. "Not a moment too soon."

 

@Starforce @Kujamih @Blitz Boom

The cycle began like it had the previous time, with the sensation of the Project starting to turn and move, somewhat jarring as it had remained still since the last time the cycle occurred, then a sudden lurch as it 'cycled' to a bunch of places at random.

This time, however, it very suddenly stopped, throwing everything not strapped down towards the front of the Project more violently than usual. As the seats in Silver's office were against the front facing wall of the room, they were not at risk, although being shoved against the back of one's seat as though struck from behind was hardly pleasant.

There was a moment of quiet before alarms started blaring across the ship. "All critical creatures report to your duty stations. All civilians return to your dwellings. This is not a drill."

There would be panic in the hallways as creatures rushed to their assigned areas, as well as the fair number of those disoriented by the sudden stop of the Project. Medical personnel were blocking some of the hallways to care for those who had been knocked unconscious or otherwise injured.

If anyone got a look outside the project while moving, they'd see the whole project seemed to be gripped by a miasmic glow of magic. Something very powerful had taken hold of the Project, preventing it from moving.

If anyone looked down, they'd see a frozen tundra below them, harsh and cold, a few scattered spires protruding from the ice, and the head of a massive statue of a unicorn whose horn was glowing with the same light that gripped the Project.

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Silver shook off the disorientation, panicked by the announcement. "I need to go, and so do the rest of you." She looked between Briar, Brittle, and Blitz, "I know it's a lot to ask, but can you keep an eye on Blitz here? Also, Blitz, if you see Plein, make sure she's alright and bring her with you. I'll come back for you once this is resolved."
 

With that she'd run out of the office, presumably to her duty station.

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

The three of them managed to catch a glimpse of the surroundings outside before they were violently thrown against the wall. Spiral and Trixie groaned in pain as this occurred but Maud made no sound. 

"What the hell, why did we stop?" Spiral asked in frustration, hurrying towards the window and limping a bit as her right leg was bruised but not injured otherwise. Spiral was very concerned to say the least, and didn't have time to look at the others reactions.

Trixie hurried up to the window as well in a similar manner. "Look! Trixie sees a statue down below with a glowing light, like the one that apparently grabbed hold of us here!" she pointed out quickly as Maud would steady herself and approach the window.

"I bet you this is some kind of setup! Why else do you think we would suddenly arrive like this, a statue in the middle of nowhere. This is suspicious." Spiral said, while Maud silently nodded. "Definitely planned, I would figure." she commented casually.

"Well, Trixie thinks we better contact someone about this." she suggested and Maud narrowed her eyes. 

"Fury would know." Maud sighed and looked out to the window. Maud would look around the room, imagining her feeling calling out to Fury. It was the same way that she got Red's attention at first, but she was specifically calling out to Fury this time as she though, "Fury. The project has stopped, and outside there is a statue with a glowing light that has encapsulated the vessel. I believe this is planned."

Then they waited. 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

Them heading to the pipe works again made Light a bit irritated.

" Sigh this place again....someone has to make a map of this place..." 

As the cycle happen Light seems to get the hang of it.

" Eyyy... It's not bad once you get used to it ...aaa-AAAACHOOO!"

As he sneezed a black shard horn came out of his forehead.

" Excuse me..."

As the events happened, light was not too shocked.

" Hmmm I guess the plot is moving quite.... Irregular? I guess we'll finally find a leader..."

Light has not much to do so he would wait till everypony leaves. But he would volunteer to take care of Blitz.

" I don't mind taking care of Blitz if you ponies have something to do. You don't mind me taking care of you right Blitz?" 

Edited April 2, 2022 by Kujamih

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Starforce @Illiad Easle

On 2022-04-02 at 9:01 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Silver would lead the way out of the Cafeteria to one of the typically ignored access points to the pipeworks, then along some of the catwalks to a door labeled "S. Easle, Chief Engineer." Which she opened by pressing her hoof against the scanner. The inside was rather spartan, bare, like the office hadn't been used in some time. "Sorry about the dust, I don't usually work out of this office, but I designed it to be comfortable during cycles."

She pulled a lever on the wall and several padded chairs emerged from a recess that they could strap themselves into if they so desired. Silver elected to just sit in one as the announcement that the cycle was about to begin came over the PA. "Not a moment too soon."

"Worry not. A little dust does not bother me overly. Prior to joining this place, my residences tended to be caves, and mere dirt. Or the pit, in which I were tossed into, after I sprouted. This is still something I'd consider high standard, compared to most other things."

Of course, their own room were neater, and cleaner. Yet a little dust? Peh. hardly an issue, he'd say. And since Brittle did not have allergies, she were not fussed either. She too were sadly also used in her life, to poor resting areas. What with the cage and all that... This were nothing near as bad. Why, it even had seating. Comfort to be found everywhere.

Brittle didn't care either. To her, tools were meant to be clean, and then the rest were depending on stuff. This here? Just a storage room for them, so meh. Not important.

On 2022-04-03 at 12:41 AM, Kujamih said:

As he sneezed a black shard horn came out of his forehead.

" Excuse me..."

Blitz had a good giggle over this, as the start of the cycle went on.

"Hehe, you sneezed out a horn. Silly changeling."

Not like she knew any better, right? Just a changeling thing... Probably. Light were likely not gonna correct her, in any case. Why would he, after all? She'd just start to bash him in with question. And with what were about to happen, they likely all had better things to think about, than trivial drivel like that.

On 2022-04-02 at 9:01 PM, Illiad Easle said:

There was a moment of quiet before alarms started blaring across the ship. "All critical creatures report to your duty stations. All civilians return to your dwellings. This is not a drill."

There would be panic in the hallways as creatures rushed to their assigned areas, as well as the fair number of those disoriented by the sudden stop of the Project. Medical personnel were blocking some of the hallways to care for those who had been knocked unconscious or otherwise injured.

If anyone got a look outside the project while moving, they'd see the whole project seemed to be gripped by a miasmic glow of magic. Something very powerful had taken hold of the Project, preventing it from moving.

If anyone looked down, they'd see a frozen tundra below them, harsh and cold, a few scattered spires protruding from the ice, and the head of a massive statue of a unicorn whose horn was glowing with the same light that gripped the Project.

Soon as things were clearly not as per usual, Brittle would start off, by having one of her fits. Her form getting engulfed time and time again, every time showing a more bizarre, often detrimental form. Like an elongated, scaled dog, without legs. Or a pony-like shape, but without visible eyes, and with hard plated, making it hard for her to move.

It would eventually settle on something, as Briar went on from his seat, tremors and force pushing him backwards be darned, and would reach out with his vines, to grab hold of her. And soon as he could get a proper grip, he'd have her pulled over to him, so that he could embrace her fully, with both vines. Horrifying to some, but for her, it gave her the bit of comfort, to stop morphing around further, than what were going on right now. Which had a general changeling shape, but with overly large, pale moth wings, wrapped around her, in a feeble attempt for safety. She were furthermore crouched up into a fetal position, not showing much of her pure white body, beyond the holes in her extremities, being filled with varied gems, and her fangs sticking out of both upper, and lower, part of her mouth. Couldn't say anything about her eyes though, as she had them fully covered.

"Shhh. It's okay. I'm here. I'll always be here."

While he were trying to calm her down, the sight below came visible. Which she did not see, and Briar did neither, due to obvious reasons.

Only one who did, were Blitz, who'd look down, confused, and a little excited. Not scared though. That was rare for her, and she weren't seeing anything that were beyond them simply being caught, by the looks of things. That were not yet reason for spikes of fear.

"Huh... That looks kinda bad."

On 2022-04-02 at 9:01 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Silver shook off the disorientation, panicked by the announcement. "I need to go, and so do the rest of you." She looked between Briar, Brittle, and Blitz, "I know it's a lot to ask, but can you keep an eye on Blitz here? Also, Blitz, if you see Plein, make sure she's alright and bring her with you. I'll come back for you once this is resolved."
 

With that she'd run out of the office, presumably to her duty station.

"I promise I will!"

Blitz ideally wanted to help with this whole mess, but since her solution were pretty much *drop a giant bomb on it*, she'd concede that it might be best, to leave this one to the professionals. Plus, Silver had asked her to go and do something important here. She couldn't just get reckless, and disappoint her. Nor let Plein get into trouble. She had to go and find her!

On 2022-04-03 at 12:41 AM, Kujamih said:

" Hmmm I guess the plot is moving quite.... Irregular? I guess we'll finally find a leader..."

Light has not much to do so he would wait till everypony leaves. But he would volunteer to take care of Blitz.

" I don't mind taking care of Blitz if you ponies have something to do. You don't mind me taking care of you right Blitz?"

With her trusty sidekick, of course.

"Nope. Let's goo!!!! We gotta find Plein, and make sure she's mega safe. Ten find a good space for her to hide. We can use my room. It have things to protect us too, if something bad happens up here."

"We'll join you too."

Briar lifted himself up, and with Brittle snared to his back, by using her vines fully to carry her, she'd be ready for transport. Though all they'd get from her, were weak whimpers.

"I know not what is going on, but whatever it is, it is clearly imperative, that we find shelter for now, whilst others handle this dreadful predicament. Please lead the way."

"Super. Plant pony, stone horn, let's go!"

With that, she'd rush off towards the direction of the school, where she'd assume Plein were currently. They should probably try and keep up with Blitz's tempo though, so they wouldn't lose her already.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Starforce

With a quiet *snap* another paper appeared among them, it read: 'I'm not an Empath, nor a telepath. Not a good one at any rate. Best if you limited communication to written or spoken word.' Supposing they transcribed their previously thought statement onto the sheet or spoke it aloud, they'd get a response: 'If it is, it was not done by me. Apollo has nothing to gain from trapping the Project either. I think this is simply an unfortunate accident. Still, we need to get the Project moving ASAP, or all is lost. I don't recognize this place, which is not a good sign. Try and see if you can't find someone who knows.'

Depending on Trixie's knowledge of Unicorn history, she might recognize the face on the statue as being that of Princess Platinum. Not the depiction often used in the Hearths Warming tale, but the real one. Cold, hard, eyes full of intelligence, with a hint of dark magic corruption if one knew what to look for.

 

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom

Returning to the upper levels, the hallways were full of all sorts of creatures making their way carefully to their rooms or stations, many hallways were partially or fully blocked due to the medical personnel caring for those injured by the sudden stop. They'd be able to overhear several ponies talking about what they had seen outside, including the description of the statue and the frozen tundra they found themselves in. Several were under the impression that they were over the ruins of the Crystal Empire, which did not improve morale any.

About halfway to the school they'd pass Brittle's tutor leading a group of younger ponies along with some other teachers, she seemed relieved to see them, "I'm glad to see you're alright, I hope the sudden stop wasn't too hard on Brittle?"

She'd spare the changeling a glance before turning her attention to the group at large, "Best if you all went back to your rooms until this is resolved, it may not be safe out here."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

Light would give a wide smile towards Blitz after his sneeze, and present it as a trick.

" Tadaaa!" He showed of to Blitz.

 

He would follow behind Blitz and try to guard her as best as he can. Even though this is a different Blitz, he still considers her one and the same and has a bit of an attachment with her.

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

They all would go silent upon seeing the paper. Clearly that lay the proof that Maud was able to contact Fury successfully. Maud clearly understood Fury's words and would speak. The others knew that when Maud spoke, it was best to listen. Maud would spoke the words she heard aloud. 

"Trixie can recognize that statue. Princess Platinum. Not the one from the foal stories - but the real one was cold, harsh, and full of brutal calculating intelligence. With a hint of dark magic and corruption." Trixie spoke aloud, hoping that Fury could hear her word.

"Well, the best way to get the project moving again would be to destroy that statue there. Without a way to channel such a spell, it would be set free if I am correct. Just aim the cannons on that statue and blast it to pieces. Unless of course, there is something far larger at work here." Spiral spoke, a hoof to her chin.

"Whatever the case, clearly we have to tell someone about this. I would not tell Apollo, but Apollo is the one with those who run and operate this vessel." Maud spoke, her comment making the others fall silent.

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Starforce @Illiad Easle

On 2022-04-05 at 4:20 AM, Kujamih said:

Light would give a wide smile towards Blitz after his sneeze, and present it as a trick.

" Tadaaa!" He showed of to Blitz.

Blitz had more of a giggle as she saw this. She might not be a little fully anymore, and an actual teenager, but this sorta thing were still really funny to her. Probably would be, for far into her adulthood, if not entire life. She just had that joyous spark, that didn't seem to dim, as she grew older.

On 2022-04-05 at 3:59 AM, Illiad Easle said:

About halfway to the school they'd pass Brittle's tutor leading a group of younger ponies along with some other teachers, she seemed relieved to see them, "I'm glad to see you're alright, I hope the sudden stop wasn't too hard on Brittle?"

She'd spare the changeling a glance before turning her attention to the group at large, "Best if you all went back to your rooms until this is resolved, it may not be safe out here."

"It did not agree with her, let us put it that way. Though least she is stable. Considering everything, it is the best I believe we could hope for."

She were shivering, and a low whimper could be heard, yet Brittle weren't changing forms again currently. As said, she were as stable as the situation could likely ask for. Long as it did not get worse, hopefully she would become at least somewhat more coherent, within the next hour or so. Briar were sadly not sure how bad it might be at this point in time.

"Nuhuh, can't go to our rooms yet. Silver told us to go and make sure Plein were okay. Have you seen her?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

Light would just be at the back ground observing the others and weaving back and forth to the groups flow...

He considers the best action for now is to observe and don't disturb this groups flow for now, unless it dangers the group.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom

Brittle's tutor's eyes went wide as she quickly turned to the rest of the student group she had been guiding, quickly counting off the students, and coming up short, she muttered "Again?" Then spoke up to get the students' attention, "Did anyone see where Plein ran off to? Did anyone go with her?"

One of the ponies spoke up, "I saw Plein run off with Pom, they said something about biscuits, I think?"

The tutor looked a little relieved at that, "At least she isn't alone, thank you Spyglass." She turned back to the group, "If she went with Pom then they probably went to the livestock area to check on Pom's dog Bisquik. They can't have split off too long ago, so if you hurry they should still be there. Be safe!"

With that she got the class moving again, presumably taking them back to their living areas.

 

@Starforce

(Not much I can react to in your post directly, but good timing anyway.)

 

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom @Starforce

A short while later another announcement would come over the PA, the voice was Apollo's. "Attention everyone, I have met with my chief advisors as to our current situation, and we have decided that it is in the Project's best interest to inform you of what we currently know. According to our best estimates, we are currently located above the unicorn homelands. Yes, the very same from the history books. If the old maps are to believed, and given the landmarks, we may be above the Platinum City itself. The bad news, we are currently trapped by what we believe is an old system they used to defend themselves from the Pegasi. The good news, there is not a single sign of any spawn in the area, so we are not in any immediate danger. That said, we need volunteers, those knowledgeable in magic and Equestrian history, to go down there and release the Project, as well as see if there are any resources or materials we can use. This is very new territory, and as we've already shown, their defenses are still active even after all this time. Any willing to volunteer please see General Quarters or General Hightower for an assignment."

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

Spiral grinned at the announcement and looked to the two of them. Their looks already could tell that she wanted to go without words being spoken. Maud didn't have an issue with it and wanted Spiral to go down there and check it out. She was the perfect candidate for this, for she was technically a lot older than what most were, in the sense that she lived many many years ago - and so they decided to split up. It was also good for Trixie too, to learn to be in an environment without Spiral's presence, so she could form her own independence more actively. Maud and Trixie were going to stay on the ship, to figure out the general situation for their current plans.

Spiral would also want to vie for any favors she could get, perhaps she could come up with something to release the project or find some sort of artifact down on the surface. With that in mind, the three of them would split up and wish Spiral luck - Spiral would head to General Hightower's location (provided if she knew it), she was also excited to test out the capabilities of her new body, too. 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle

Light would ponder at the announcement and gain an idea...

" Hey Blitz.... Your a unicorn right? I'm...somewhat a unicorn... After saving your friend, you wanna enlist to go down? Who knows... We might find something down there?"

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Starforce @Illiad Easle

On 2022-04-07 at 7:31 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Brittle's tutor's eyes went wide as she quickly turned to the rest of the student group she had been guiding, quickly counting off the students, and coming up short, she muttered "Again?" Then spoke up to get the students' attention, "Did anyone see where Plein ran off to? Did anyone go with her?"

One of the ponies spoke up, "I saw Plein run off with Pom, they said something about biscuits, I think?"

The tutor looked a little relieved at that, "At least she isn't alone, thank you Spyglass." She turned back to the group, "If she went with Pom then they probably went to the livestock area to check on Pom's dog Bisquik. They can't have split off too long ago, so if you hurry they should still be there. Be safe!"

"You have my word, that I shall tend to their well being. Stay safe."

Briar would currently be somewhat hampered, but if he just adjusted Brittle a little bit...

He's slowly, take his right vine, and untangle it from Brittle. The left were still enough to keep her there securely, but now he also had a free one, just in case he had to grab someone. Or in case he needed to fight off someone. Sure he still had his magic, but this tended to work more efficiently, than his weaker version of the pure arcane magic, that unicorns had. It had some benefits in a more natural setting, but when it came to raw power, his nature magic was inadequate, compared to arcane.

Wasn't like that for all. had be been a Lotus born Evergrown, his magic would have been immensely more powerful. Yet he were not that, but a mutation of their builder class. Though in fairness, his vines were very handy in a fight, and didn't get useless, if anti-magic were a thing, so he weren't complaining.

"We'll find them, and make sure they're super safe in no time. Promise. See you later, and take care of the foalsies."

Blitz would wave enthusiastically, as the group left, and pointed herself towards the livestock area. She had sneaked over there before, so it shouldn't be hard to find again.

On 2022-04-07 at 9:54 AM, Kujamih said:

" Hey Blitz.... Your a unicorn right? I'm...somewhat a unicorn... After saving your friend, you wanna enlist to go down? Who knows... We might find something down there?"

"Oooh, I bet there's lots of dangerous things down there. Plenty of things to explode! Hehehe, but I can't. I promised my big bro I'd stay safe here, on The Æther, and you should keep your promises. Especially Pinkie Promises.

I can give you some fun stuff to go down with though. I made these fun little acorn thingies, that packs a Real punch. I think Silver put them aside for the guards, but maybe she'll let you have some? I got other things too. And they haven't found everything, hehe.

But first! We need to find Plein, Pom, and Bisquik. Let's go!"

And with that, she took off, towards the livestock area. Time to speed up, and get there as fast as possible! Which also meant that she were in her mode where she had some really good speed going, but had the stopping power of a rhino. She'd need about a meter or two, depending on the surface, to actually come to a full halt, when she were going like this.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

"hmmm I guess I didn't trigger the event I needed for Blitz... Maybe she's not the one..."

Light would ponder more, but eventually just brush of his idea for now.

" Hmm, maybe you should keep your promises Blitz...and I have my own explosives, thanks for the thought though." Light would still proceed with the group, and might stick for a while.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Starforce

As she had been to the General's office before, when she was in Trixie's body, she'd have no issue finding it again in the new body. Arriving at the office she'd find she was far from the only one who had stepped up to volunteer, a line of at least two dozen creatures of varying types had formed outside the office, the secretary was calling them in individually to answer a few questions, then sending them on their way with the promise that they'd be contacted if/when they were selected to go down.

The questions included basic things like name and species, as well as more specific things like what family relations they had on the Project, why they wanted to go down, and what they knew of ancient Equestrian history. Spiral would be asked these questions.

 

@Kujamih @Blitz Boom

Assuming the rest of the group could keep up with Blitz, they'd soon arrive at the livestock area, which Briar had been shown as part of the agriculture sector when he was first given a tour of the project. It was a mess this time though, it seemed the sudden stop had affected the creatures that lived there at least as much as the rest of the residents. The pens had broken open, so the chickens and such were all over the place, and one of the barns had collapsed, trapping a number of cows and pigs inside. All of the ponies in the area were working to get the cows and pigs free, except for a pair of fillies, one light purple and the other light pink, trying to clear debris from another corner of the yard. Blitz would recognize them as at least looking like Plein and Pom, so it stood to reason that Bisquik, and perhaps some of the other dogs given the noises from the collapsed structure and the nervous looking dogs standing around Pom and Plein, was trapped as well.

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle

Spiral would state her name and her species. She would also state that she had no living family as far as she knew - however the next part was sure to shock them. Spiral would begin to spout off about various historical information when she was originally alive (which is up to you as I am unclear on that). Spiral would be extremely precise in her descriptions, and describe the various events, conflicts, and leaders of the time she was from - as if she was there to witness it. Spiral was, but it's not like that they knew that. She would also mention various things prior to that in great detail as well, for she was a student of history all the same. 

Spiral would also reveal that she came from a wealthy estate that had a monopoly on information at the time. It was simply called the 'Spell' estate, for that was her family name. Originally descended from Starswirl, or at least of some form of relation. While she had no idea if it was still in existence, all of what she spouted off without a second thought was a good give away she wasn't lying. This would go onto show that she was indeed from their 'past', but for her, it was just a memory like anything else. 

Edited April 11, 2022 by Starforce