private The Æther Project

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@-Buttercup-

Cutting through the ice seemed somewhat more difficult than it should have been, almost as if the ice were enchanted, or magical in some way. Nonetheless, they were able to make good progress, eventually carving out enough space to take shelter inside the tunnel from the biting wind and blowing snow.

It was several meters through the ice to reach the entryway, as they approached they could see some sort of light coming from inside the structure, enough to see the row of guards, frozen in their posts, guarding the large doors. Unless Spiral intended to cut through the doors, they'd need to clear quite a bit of ice, and frozen corpses, to open the doors.

The closer they got to the doors, the better they could make out the frozen guards. They were all unicorns, wearing the ancient armor of the Platinum house, and rather emaciated looking.

"Looks like there's some truth to the Hearthswarming tale after all." Strike muttered as he looked over the frozen guards through the ice, he turned towards Spiral, "You think we'll have to worry about Wendigos? All this ice... maybe they are more than just a story too."

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

There was no shortage of blood in the area, given what had happened, though most of it were from the dogs and the cows, none, except for Light's, from ponies. Nonetheless, none of the others present would be able to tell the difference by smell.

Pom and Plein would remain with Bisquik and the other dogs until one of the vets could make it over to them, or in about an hour, at which point Pom would ask them to care for the other dogs first, saving Bisquik for last. But the other ponies and such did not have any reason to wait around for that.

If Bling, Briar, Brittle, and/or Light left the livestock area, they'd find that most of the injured ponies had received treatment and were leaving the hallways. Everyone had seemed to have started getting over the initial shock of their arrival, and the chill of their bitter cold surroundings was starting to set in. A few were talking of heading to the foundry to stay warm, others were already donning winter coats. No one would pay them much mind, whichever way they decided to go.

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle

Spiral continued to cut her way through the doors. After all, that was the entire purpose of them being here - so why would she stop now? Spiral kept going, seemingly unphased by the sight of the frozen guards. Upon seeing the armor ahead, Spiral would grin slightly. "Check out that armor? I feel like we should save that for historical reasons, shouldn't we? I'd like to keep a set of that armor for ourselves. After all, finders keepers." she said with a casual, yet shivering chuckle.

Looking to Strike she'd grin a bit wider. "You think that's just some story? No, it's not a story. Those were very real things. After all, why would they make up a story about something so specific? Every tall tale has a basis in reality, but I really hope we wouldn't have to find out about that - Windigoes would be bad news for everyone." her eyes narrowed slightly. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

On 2022-05-09 at 11:46 PM, Kujamih said:

Light would play it cool and lean on one of the big rubbles. He'd pose there in a cool fashionable way and reply.

" Me injured? Never." Light said while blood gushes out of his mouth.

" Crap I placed the injury at the wrong spot again... Cough." 

Light didn't expect that a lot of blood would come out of his mouth.

He would nonchalantly wipe his bloody mouth and continue to play it cool.

".... This is nothing..." 

He'd distort the light on the blood so no one can see it... But the smell of blood was apparent, even to the non sensitive noses.

Briar would slowly, and calmly, walk towards Light as he spoke, and the smell of blood more thickly wafted from his mouth. And when he were close enough, would speak in a low, calm voice. All the while, a smile remained on his face.

"You can't hide the smell of blood, from a predator. And I know what is yours, and what is animal. Hard to fool the senses of a specialist."

He'd give a wide smile, showing off his razor-sharp teeth properly, but not with cruel intent. If so, his facial expression wouldn't have remained as calm as they were. Which granted, were helped by him not opening his eyelids. The visual representation of one with that, tended to make him seem calm and collected, he had been told. And it were less off putting than him blinking, and showing that while there were eyelids, there were nothing behind them, but a blank green surface, covered in a very short layer, of green *hairs*.

It were also one reason why the visual illusion did nothing. He couldn't see anyway, so it were utterly pointless to try and hide something from him that way.

On 2022-05-11 at 5:32 AM, Illiad Easle said:

If Bling, Briar, Brittle, and/or Light left the livestock area, they'd find that most of the injured ponies had received treatment and were leaving the hallways. Everyone had seemed to have started getting over the initial shock of their arrival, and the chill of their bitter cold surroundings was starting to set in. A few were talking of heading to the foundry to stay warm, others were already donning winter coats. No one would pay them much mind, whichever way they decided to go.

Briar were not thrilled to leave, but Plein had a large group of ponies and animals, that could help keep her safe, and were as well, in a safe environment. She'd be safer than Blitz would, as she moved out and about, looking to see if she could find Play Wright. So after his little chat with Light, he'd follow her. Had to make sure the lone filly were safe, over the large group.

Also, he was getting the distinct feeling that leaving her unsupervised, was a horrible idea.

Blitz felt the chill in the air as she moved on, but that just brought an even bigger smile to her face. It reminded her of winter, which she hadn't really felt since getting up here. It were all controlled and pleasant all the time (especially in the labs), which were nice and all, but the natural chill was still a welcome change. A shame there weren't any snow in here, so she could make snowballs.

Briar on the other hoof, grimaced a little, though he soldiered on, with only the occasional shiver, to show that he were cold. There were evergrown accustomed to living in cold temperatures like this, but he were not one of them. He were a jungle variant. His natural habit, were a warm, humid jungle, where the air felt hick to breathe. And while he had not been in a place like that for several years, before the crisis, and were adaptable to a point, harsh cold were not ideal. Sure he had been around his cold loving kin before, but he himself, would need a coat or something inevitably. And he could feel that he wasn't the only one feeling the chill, as Brittle's shivers, started to get less fearful, and more in response to the winds. He had been her caretaker enough to know the difference by now.

"Brr. I had nearly forgotten the chill of winter."

"Yeah, isn't it cool? Hah! Puns.

*giggle* It's never this cold here. I think. I winder if there's snow somewhere here... Could throw a snowball at Grump, and really surprise her."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

"..... Would you like some?" Light spat a hand full of his blood to his hoof, presenting it to Briar.

His blood is visibly seen with chunks of black material, which does not aid for sightless beings, but it does give off an ominous aura, which could be sensed by any magic oriented creatures to stay away from.

 

In some way the cold air distorts the physical form of Light.

"....tsk.... I hate the cold... It's hard to use my ability in this kind of weather...

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@-Buttercup-

Her companions were a bit concerned by Spiral's reactions and comments, but didn't offer any commentary of their own, simply looking about them with newfound trepidation.

Spiral would find that the doors reacted strangely to her attempts to cut through them, for one thing the doors were solid stone as opposed to ice, but innumerable small runes began to glow as her magic drill made contact, draining the energy from her spell faster the harder she pushed, as the harder she pushed the more defensive runes were activated. If she pushed hard enough, some of the runes would start sending electric shocks back at her and her companions.

In any case, Zhanna would comment, "There are some explosives back at the transport, maybe those would be more effective than magic at getting through the doors?"

Sure would nod, "I'll fly back and get some, be right back."

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Light was attracting some odd looks from those around them, but he was not approached, perhaps due to the ominous aura in his blood?

If they asked around for where they might find Play Wright, they would be told to head up to one of the indoor athletic areas towards the front of the Project, where the predominantly Trojan residents mostly were housed, as the Project had been filled from the front to the back when first launched. When they arrived they'd find that the large open room had been converted to a sort of hospital area to care for all those who had been injured in the sudden stop. The wounds here seemed slightly more severe than those toward the back of the Project, it seemed the front had taken the larger hit in their sudden stop.

Play Wright was walking among the wounded, a silver laurel wreath on his head, offering words of comfort to those he passed by, one of his own forelimbs in a sling. He noticed the group entering, but did not make his way over to them, simply continuing his path to talk to the injured. (I'm pretty sure none of you have met Play yet, I think Windy was the only one) 

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle 

Upon seeing and sensing the difficulty in Spiral's attempt to cut through the doors. She didn't want to do anything that would be too risky and risk the safety of her team-mates. "Hmm, yeah, we should definitely explode our way through these doors. I don't want to risk any feedback through the runes or anything like that." Spiral commented and backed away from the doors as she would wait. "Once we explode our way in, I would very much like us to retrieve anything worthy of value or interest to bring back to the project." Spiral stated calmly. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

On 2022-05-13 at 11:29 PM, Kujamih said:

"..... Would you like some?" Light spat a hand full of his blood to his hoof, presenting it to Briar.

Briar would take a step back, with a brief, yet distinct look of disgust on his face.

"I'd sooner starve to death, than feast upon an equine."

Briar had somewhat of a strict moral code, when it came to his eating habits. And eating equines, were firmly on the *Shall never happen* side of things. Which included offered blood as this, or even a corpse. Had he the urge, there had frankly been plenty of them to feast upon in recent times, but he refused, and faced hunger before going that route, with an iron zeal.

It were not because he feared the concept of a slippery slope, where if he had just a taste, he would never be able to stop again. He were perfectly in control, and not some ravenous beast. It were a moral choice, born first of his want to not be seen as a monster, and later, carried further, to him knowing that he could simply not just move on, from having eaten a pony, regardless of circumstances. It would stay in his mind, and lead him to get depressed, and question himself, and how strong his morals truly were. It were better to not even attempt such a macabre feast, in his opinion.

Beyond that, something were odd about the blood. He couldn't put a hood on what it were, but it felt polluted, in some way? It didn't affect the smell, but he just felt as if something were tainting it. Which were very odd. If it were a disease, he could usually smell that in the blood, but this were... Hmm, maybe something subtle then? It weren't as if he had smelled every disease known to equine kind. Just a few dozen.

"My apologies. I did not mean to come off so strongly. The story between equine and evergrown, are short, yet rife with one sided deaths. Even taking aside my personal morals, it would only flare tensions, were I to in any way, seem to *retaliate*, by feasting upon ponykind. Though it is mostly due to personal beliefs. I do not think that any creature of higher sentience, should be considered as food."

On 2022-05-13 at 11:29 PM, Kujamih said:

In some way the cold air distorts the physical form of Light.

"....tsk.... I hate the cold... It's hard to use my ability in this kind of weather...

"Awh, but the cold air is fun. Though I think it's playing tricks with my mind. You're looking all fizzy, hehe."

Blitz would just bounce along then, convinced she were just seeing things, and having enough other things to think about/focus on, that it didn't really matter to her. Probably just her eyes messing with her too, since ponies didn't distort like that. That would be silly.

On 2022-05-14 at 8:23 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Play Wright was walking among the wounded, a silver laurel wreath on his head, offering words of comfort to those he passed by, one of his own forelimbs in a sling. He noticed the group entering, but did not make his way over to them, simply continuing his path to talk to the injured. (I'm pretty sure none of you have met Play yet, I think Windy was the only one) 

Whilst the others might be more reserved, Blitz were a direct filly, so she'd just walk straight towards Play Wright, until he couldn't openly ignore her presence, and then started talking to him. Granted, she weren't sure it were this one, but she were going to take a wild stab in the dark, and try her luck. Worst case, he'd be able to point her to where she did need to go instead. Hopefully not on one of the beds. Lots of poor creatures injured here it seemed. A shame she wasn't a doctor, or she could've helped.

"Heya. Are you Play Wright? Plein wanted us to go look for him."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

10 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

My apologies. I did not mean to come off so strongly. The story between equine and evergrown, are short, yet rife with one sided deaths. Even taking aside my personal morals, it would only flare tensions, were I to in any way, seem to *retaliate*, by feasting upon ponykind. Though it is mostly due to personal beliefs. I do not think that any creature of higher sentience, should be considered as food."

"Hehehe don't worry I jest... But they say jokes are half meant though?" Light slyly said towards Briar. " Your not the only one who can make others uncomfortable too you know." He smirked.

10 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Awh, but the cold air is fun. Though I think it's playing tricks with my mind. You're looking all fizzy, hehe."

"Hey  look at this magic trick..." Light then swatted Blitz on the face with his hoof. Blitz would definitely react to it, but Light's hoof would just faze through of Blitz cheeks. 

" Tadaa!!"

10 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Heya. Are you Play Wright? Plein wanted us to go look for him."

"..... Wait I'm quite lost.... Why are we finding him again?" Light asked.

@Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@-Buttercup-

Zhanna simply nodded, "Assuming it's light enough to carry back of course. I'm sure once we're free to leave and it's safe to move up and down they'll scavenge everything they can get from this place."

It wouldn't be long before Sure came back with the explosives, setting them against the door, "Alright, they can be remotely detonated with magic, so let's get out of the tunnel and Spiral can set them off."

The ensuing explosion, once Spiral set it off, sent rumbles all throughout the area, large cracks forming in the ice, though they didn't open up. Luckily their tunnel remained mostly intact, so they could traverse it without worry of collapse. However, it hadn't done quite as much damage to the doors as they might have hoped. While it had shattered the large stones, they'd still need to remove the large pieces to get through, though now they could be drilled to break them down further without risk of activating the runes.

Once the door was clear they'd need only cut through another length of ice before it stopped, allowing them to drop down to the floor of the palace. There were a few, weak, magical lanterns still glowing on some of the walls, they provided no warmth to the room. (Think Dwemer ruins)

 

 

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

21 hours ago, Kujamih said:

"Hehehe don't worry I jest... But they say jokes are half meant though?" Light slyly said towards Briar. " Your not the only one who can make others uncomfortable too you know." He smirked.

(I mean, to me it sounds like Briar was deeply offended by the insinuation. 'It's just a joke' may not be enough to smooth things over here. Especially since you followed it up with an 'unless...?')

Between Briar's outburst and Light's 'retraction' they had certainly drawn a bit more attention to themselves, many of the ponies around them giving them odd looks until they distanced themselves. A few of them whispering quietly amongst themselves.

 

On 2022-05-16 at 7:34 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Heya. Are you Play Wright? Plein wanted us to go look for him."

Blitz would have to stand in front of Play to get him to stop, a confused expression on his face until she mentioned Plein, at which point a look of understanding and relief washed over him, "Ah, you must be one of her friends from school. Yes, I'm Play Wright." His expression grew more concerned, "Is she alright?"

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle

Spiral would make sure the explosives were set properly. Then she'd set them off and then quickly leave the tunnel before the exploded. After a little while of waiting to make sure the coast was clear, she'd head back to see if the ice was gone. It was not. At the very least it was cracked though, so with her shadow cutting spell she would have an easier time cutting through it than anticipated. With the stones remaining, she would drill through them and break them up, likely with the help of the others. The stones were a lot harder to deal with but with her magic, it eventually got done.

Upon seeing what they saw, the lanterns and the interior of the palace she'd shine a light spell to illuminate the place better, and entered inside carefully. "Those lanterns don't emit heat, did you notice that?" she'd ask the others. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

On 2022-05-17 at 2:28 AM, Kujamih said:

"Hehehe don't worry I jest... But they say jokes are half meant though?" Light slyly said towards Briar. " Your not the only one who can make others uncomfortable too you know." He smirked.

Briar's usual friendly smile faltered, and he'd face towards Light with a more serious demeanor on his face, and in his posture.

"The difference between us, Mr. Light, is that I don't want to make other uncomfortable. I treat others with the dignity and respect, I would hope they'd show in return. Even if sometimes, they do not deserve it."

That last part were meant towards Light, whom Briar were currently considering to be rather insensitive, towards what he had been informed of. Joking were one thing, but he had all but said *But what If you just tried?*, which considering his stance on this matter - which he had thought had been clearly stated - he found rather revolting. As were the notion that the evergrown wished to appear threatening, or in a way that made other nervous around him.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Briar were painfully aware of the way his deformities, and appearance in general, made him seem like either a freak, or a threat. So he had done his to make himself seem less threatening. Facial expressions that were warm and welcoming, despite him being unable to even see it himself. Respectful tone and words, as well as gestures, to try and connect better with others. Even the cape he had once worn over the buds on his back, were to hide some of what he were, as much as how his eyelids were closed, to make others think of him less of a disturbing thing, rather than a creature.

Yes, his teeth did still cause issues at times, but he found that if he ensured that he had his manners in order, and kept his facial expression correct, there were more often curiosity, rather than fear, over seeing those razor-sharp teeth of his.

That Light apparently then figured that he enjoyed making other uncomfortable, were ridiculous, and bordering on insulting. The only ones he wished to make uncomfortable, were those who threatened Brittle. Those he showed a less kind side of himself.

Briar were not pleased either, with how it seemed this interaction of theirs, had caused whispers behind his back, and odd stares. It could be nothing. Could be the start of all kinds of untrue, cruel rumors to start spreading about him. Only time would tell, but the fact that it were happening, caused him concern. Hopefully he'd be judged on his action, rather than on fables, if it came down to something happening. And more importantly, that Brittle would be kept out of it.

On 2022-05-17 at 2:28 AM, Kujamih said:

"Hey  look at this magic trick..." Light then swatted Blitz on the face with his hoof. Blitz would definitely react to it, but Light's hoof would just faze through of Blitz cheeks. 

" Tadaa!!"

Briar almost growled as he felt this movement towards Blitz. A trick or not, Light were not in a good standing with him currently, and him thinking a fun trick involved slapping fillies - even if it were not real - were not well timed.

Blitz however, just stood and blinked for a few seconds, baffled by what had just happened. Then started to giggle, and clap her hooves.

"Hehe, that almost felt real! What a fun illusion. It's like the kitsune, but with less fluffy tails."

Blitz really loved seeing kitsune. They always looked so fluffy and cute. Sure didn't like her trying to hug them though. Especially not if she used the word cute. Seemed like it ruffled some non-existent feathers on them, to be referred to as that.

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Blitz would have to stand in front of Play to get him to stop, a confused expression on his face until she mentioned Plein, at which point a look of understanding and relief washed over him, "Ah, you must be one of her friends from school. Yes, I'm Play Wright." His expression grew more concerned, "Is she alright?"

"Oh, I don't go to school. I work with her mom. Silver told me to go look for her, and then Plein told me to go look for you. It's like a fetch quest."

Blitz's whole... Everything, made it a sound choice to not have her mingle with others in school. She still got sent homework though. Usually she treated that like most others did crosswords. A fun little distraction, before they had to get on with real work. A few times she had to ask for help about some things, but once she understood the basics of a thing, she'd get on with it well.

"And Plein is okay. Some buildings collapse in the farm place, but it looked like they were all okay. Her friends doggo got hurt though. Poor doggo, but she got it free. The vet's gonna have good look, and make him all better.

You should've seen it. The plant pony lifted a roof, and then Light made things bubbly. It was kinda funny.

Not fun here though. Lots of hurt. Are you okay? Leg broken?"

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

Light would sigh a bit and ponder for a moment. Then would  casually strike a conversation with Briar. Light knows that he hit a chord from Briar.

" You know... You can always ignore me if you want if that's what you want Briar... You can also do that to the other ponies who make up stories about you too. I'm just suggesting this... But no matter what you do there's always some one out there that will always be uncomfortable at what you do... So I just be myself and not let the stress get into me. I can always say sorry if I discomfort them right? But if they start making stories, then that's not my problem but theirs. Weak minds tend to do that, and low esteemed ones tend to fall prey from that cycle. Sorry by the way... I was just testing you out... You had such maturity coming out of you and humility... I didn't know you carry such burdens within you... Never mind I guess you aren't suited YET for that role? Who knows?

"Well I better leave you alone then Briar, I don't want to ruin anymore of your reputation. Oh and I'm pretty sure I'm not considered a pony anymore though, so that wasn't pony blood... Although I'm also not sure if my blood is safe to drink..." Light would then smile towards Briar even though he knows he can't see it, and finally leaves his side.

Light would then try to secretly communicate with Fury, through a wave length that fellow draconicous could connect, but only to the vicinity of the project.

" Ahm hellu?"

Light would check if there's any draconicous would pick his signal... He doesn't want to accidentally leak information. 

If Fury would answer and give a clear or safer connection he would continue.

" So about the leader thing... IT doesn't need to be perfect right? It's kinda hard finding creatures with good quality in this project, since that dang griffin pretty much snuffed out everyone's trust and love."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@-Buttercup-

Her companions were busy looking around the space when Spiral mentioned the lamps to them, "Looks like they're magical too, maybe powered by whatever's powering everything else?" Zhanna said.

Even though the space wasn't full of ice, it was still bitter cold inside the structure, and the ice extended in a length from the outer wall.

Sure commented, "If the ice doesn't permeate the structure, maybe that means the wendigos didn't get inside? I wonder how they repelled them?"

If they looked about they'd see that some of the magical conduits they had seen connected to the defensive structures outside ran along the frozen half of the hallway. Perhaps following them would lead them to whatever was powering the system? They could also cut them here by digging through the ice, thus disabling a number of the defenses outside. 

 

@Blitz Boom

On 2022-05-18 at 3:24 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"Oh, I don't go to school. I work with her mom. Silver told me to go look for her, and then Plein told me to go look for you. It's like a fetch quest."

Play looked surprised, "You work with Silver now? Good for you, and for her, it's been a long time since she's worked with anyone... Not since she got on the Project."

 

On 2022-05-18 at 3:24 PM, Blitz Boom said:

"And Plein is okay. Some buildings collapse in the farm place, but it looked like they were all okay. Her friends doggo got hurt though. Poor doggo, but she got it free. The vet's gonna have good look, and make him all better.

He looked relieved at the news, "That's unfortunate, but it's good that you and your friends were able to help out. We'll definitely need many helping hooves these next few weeks with all these ponies incapacitated for a few days."

On 2022-05-18 at 3:24 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Not fun here though. Lots of hurt. Are you okay? Leg broken?"

He shook his head, "Just a sprain, I'll be fine soon enough, and so long as I can walk it helps keep the moral of the others up to see that they aren't suffering alone. If even the Vice Consul was hurt, their pride can be at least a little assuaged."

He nodded as he looked around the room, "Thank you for bringing this news to me. I need to get back to it, but if there's anything I can do for you don't hesitate to come ask."

 

@Kujamih

On 2022-05-18 at 3:58 PM, Kujamih said:

" So about the leader thing... IT doesn't need to be perfect right? It's kinda hard finding creatures with good quality in this project, since that dang griffin pretty much snuffed out everyone's trust and love."

"There's plenty of trust and love in the Project, it only exists between those who have earned it though. For instance, the separate groups each have plenty of love and trust within themselves, the Trojans mostly rally around Vice Consul Wright, the changelings mostly rally around Queen Permu, the Equestrians don't have anyone to rally around, but they stick together nonetheless. Maybe it would be easier to find someone that the Equestrians can rally around? Someone to unify them? Then find someone who can inspire everyone."

"And no, it doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to be better than Apollo."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

".... What!? You can't call that love and trust in the project?.... The group is still segregated.... Shouldn't it be that the next leader be able to have EVERY CREATURE united and love and trust one another?"

Light has some clues now on why this project is having a hard time now.

" Anyway, Briar is a good candidate, he can definitely unite every creature... Not just pony.... But of course.... Not perfect.... Theres also the boom family...but apparently you didn't get all of them." 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

On 2022-05-18 at 11:58 PM, Kujamih said:

" You know... You can always ignore me if you want if that's what you want Briar... You can also do that to the other ponies who make up stories about you too. I'm just suggesting this... But no matter what you do there's always some one out there that will always be uncomfortable at what you do... So I just be myself and not let the stress get into me. I can always say sorry if I discomfort them right? But if they start making stories, then that's not my problem but theirs. Weak minds tend to do that, and low esteemed ones tend to fall prey from that cycle. Sorry by the way... I was just testing you out... You had such maturity coming out of you and humility... I didn't know you carry such burdens within you... Never mind I guess you aren't suited YET for that role? Who knows?

"Well I better leave you alone then Briar, I don't want to ruin anymore of your reputation. Oh and I'm pretty sure I'm not considered a pony anymore though, so that wasn't pony blood... Although I'm also not sure if my blood is safe to drink..." Light would then smile towards Briar even though he knows he can't see it, and finally leaves his side.

"Wait."

Briar had listened as the apparently not pony had spoken, and whilst he still felt insulted from before...

*Do not carry grudges, lest they consume you.* Words from the pony who had saved him, after he stumbled out of the jungle. The equine, to whom he owed his life, and whom he still send prayers towards, on the date of his passing. Never had he known a father, yet Briar thought of the old stallion as one as close to that, as he had ever had. Many were his advises and lectures, before time had finally claimed him, and among them, were this. Spoken to Briar, as he had growled, and talked of vengeance against his tribe, for what they had done to him. The humiliation, the enslavement. These colored rings, jabbed into his legs, to ensure they would never leave him... He had much that he wanted them to answer for, but the stallion had been right. The more he simmered in this emotion, the less he could focus on life splendor, and what might be waiting out there, beyond the horizon.

Refusing to let go of the negative, would get him nowhere. Yet now, he were faced with a situation, wherein he almost did so. Because of one slight, he had been less than pleased, yet the stallion had now apologized. Were he to keep his grudge then? Especially over something so trivial? His friend would roll in his grave, as the equines were so fond of saying.

He'd take a deep breath, letting out a heavy sigh, and would then turn to face Light.

"Thank you for the apology, Light. It is accepted, and I am sorry that I snapped back at you, in the manner which I did.

Perhaps at some point, you may be willing to join me, in hearing the tale of the evergrown and ponies? Perhaps if we meet in understanding, I could make you better understand why the matter of blood is somewhat touchy between our kin. At least for us. I doubt there are many ponies, who can remember us, as it is. Equine or not, I yet offer you a story, when you are ready to hear it. And perhaps, you can tell me one then, and I can come to understand you better, yes?"

He'd give a warm smile. Sharp teeth or not, he did his outmost, to make his facial expression as friendly as his physical features allowed. Hopefully now, they may start on not a fresh note, but a better one. Though he were still not going to taste Light's blood. Pony or not, he were clearly highly sentient. Hence, he were not food. Even if his blood weren't so oddly repulsive, just from the aura that emanated from it.

On 2022-05-20 at 3:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Play looked surprised, "You work with Silver now? Good for you, and for her, it's been a long time since she's worked with anyone... Not since she got on the Project."

"Really? Cool! I'm special."

Blitz's grin would nearly go from ear to ear, as she heard this. Were her metal wings working, she'd be fluttering in place with glee. Also would help if she even had them on, but she had outgrown the old harness she had worn, and hadn't come around to changing that, nor work on making the wings actually work, just yet. Always something else to do, right? Besides, she hadn't thought of a way to make them work right at this point. Frankly, she had started to think of some sorta rockets down the side instead, but that seemed impractical, and she still couldn't figure out how she'd do so, without accidentally charring whoever wore they were on, so she were still in the early stages with this sorta thinking.

On 2022-05-20 at 3:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He looked relieved at the news, "That's unfortunate, but it's good that you and your friends were able to help out. We'll definitely need many helping hooves these next few weeks with all these ponies incapacitated for a few days."

"Helping others, is important. Just like big bro told me. I bet we can all do lots of stuff to help, while the hurt creatures gets all better."

She wasn't sure about the others, but she could for sure. Might be she'd have some sleepless  days, but that'd be cool. She hadn't had those for a while now, but she could usually last three-four days of hard working, before she collapsed.  That should be enough time to get something done right for others. Hehe, and she'd get to meet lots of new ones. That'd be fun. Maybe some her own age too. It was so rare  she were around others like that.

On 2022-05-20 at 3:39 AM, Illiad Easle said:

He shook his head, "Just a sprain, I'll be fine soon enough, and so long as I can walk it helps keep the moral of the others up to see that they aren't suffering alone. If even the Vice Consul was hurt, their pride can be at least a little assuaged."

He nodded as he looked around the room, "Thank you for bringing this news to me. I need to get back to it, but if there's anything I can do for you don't hesitate to come ask."

"Okie-dokie, and you come ask us, if there's anything, yeah?  It's just in the lab."

She'd spin around, as the stallion went on his way, to keep the morale going, and would look up at the various adults expectantly.

"So what're we gonna do now, huh? Bet there's some way we can help. Any ideas? Or stuff to do? I bet Light wanna go swoop down to the cold place, and do stuff. Sounded like you found that place all kinds of interesting before."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Blitz Boom

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

Thank you for the apology, Light. It is accepted, and I am sorry that I snapped back at you, in the manner which I did.

Perhaps at some point, you may be willing to join me, in hearing the tale of the evergrown and ponies? Perhaps if we meet in understanding, I could make you better understand why the matter of blood is somewhat touchy between our kin. At least for us. I doubt there are many ponies, who can remember us, as it is. Equine or not, I yet offer you a story, when you are ready to hear it. And perhaps, you can tell me one then, and I can come to understand you better,

" Stories you say..." Light would reminisce as he heard those words from Briar, and it would give him a sad and lonely look painted upon his face.

He would look back at briar for a short while after his ponder and would reply with a smile. " I'd love to share stories with you. When we have a much more better scenario than this we will do so my friend, maybe a lunch or dinner, a drink at the bar, where it's more relax and comfortable."

 

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

Really? Cool! I'm special."

" Silly filly you ARE special." Light would add and ruffle her mane a bit.

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

1 hour ago, Blitz Boom said:

So what're we gonna do now, huh? Bet there's some way we can help. Any ideas? Or stuff to do? I bet Light wanna go swoop down to the cold place, and do stuff. Sounded like you found that place all kinds of interesting before."

" Maybe let's check the place out then?"

Light would follow the group if they chose to head for the randevu point for the descent is at.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Blitz Boom @Kujamih

Play raised an eyebrow at Light's interaction with Blitz, but didn't comment on it, simply turning his attention back to extending comfort to the injured ponies that filled the room.

 

In regards to heading down to the surface, Blitz would be denied outright, as it wasn't safe for the scientists to go down yet, much less a filly. Brittle would fall in the same bucket being of too young, plus not having any notable skills that would make her useful on the surface, so it was unlikely that Briar would be willing to go down.

Light though would be able to go down, provided he could convince General Hightower of his competence and General Quarters of his physical abilities. (See -Buttercup-'s posts for Spiral's experience proving herself.)

 

(With -Buttercup-'s sudden departure I've got to rework the story to fit just the two of you who are left. If you've got ideas as to things you want to see happen, I'd appreciate it.)

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle

(I could never actually commit to such a departure on my own terms, so disregard that.)

Spiral looked at them. "Windigoes can be defeated through the power of friendship and love. I know that sounds downright stupid to say, but according to the legends it is true. As far as I understand it the Windigoes are disharmonic creatures. Chaotic creatures. Ponies like you and me are harmonic, and they feed off of hatred and fear. If you are loving caring, they have nothing to feed off of." she spoke as they walked throughout the area. "Let's fan out, and see what we can find."

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

On 2022-05-22 at 12:25 AM, Kujamih said:

" Stories you say..." Light would reminisce as he heard those words from Briar, and it would give him a sad and lonely look painted upon his face.

He would look back at briar for a short while after his ponder and would reply with a smile. " I'd love to share stories with you. When we have a much more better scenario than this we will do so my friend, maybe a lunch or dinner, a drink at the bar, where it's more relax and comfortable."

The facial expressions, and look in the eyes, were sadly somewhat lost on Briar, due to obvious reasons, but the body language, and verbal response, were not. Though he would admit, to being briefly worried, due to said body language, before Light decided to speak.

"I do not often partake in drinking, but mayhap I shall try to indulge minorly in that, for the sake of the proper social interaction. When times are less troubling, we can consider the details more. For now though, things are perhaps a little occupied, and we would do better in keeping such plans for when it have passed. I hope it shall not be long, but alas, it is hard for me to think of the repercussion of what is currently happening."

On 2022-05-22 at 12:25 AM, Kujamih said:

" Silly filly you ARE special." Light would add and ruffle her mane a bit.

Blitz would giggle, as her mane were ruffled. A fair amount of fillies her age, would not like this, as they'd style their manes, but she didn't care. Her mane were just kinda like it were now naturally. At worst, she had to take a comb through every now and again, and she didn't mind if it were a bit messy otherwise. It was just hair. It probably wasn't gonna explode.

On 2022-05-22 at 12:25 AM, Kujamih said:

" Maybe let's check the place out then?"

Light would follow the group if they chose to head for the randevu point for the descent is at.

"I hope you find lots of stuff down there, but I'm staying. Big bro made me promise that I'd stay here, on The Æther, and help everyone, until we'd get home. I don't wanna make him worry."

She promised him this, and she'd stay true to her words. She'd stay here, on The Æther, until the day when they finally came home again, and she could go and look for him. Even if she had work, her brother came first, so when time came, she'd seek him out before anything else.

Who knew? Maybe by then, someone would've figured out how to recover her memories of her life, before she woke up in the Everfree Forest. Been years now, and she still had nothing. For some reason, no memories came to her naturally. So either one hay of a trauma, or something had taken those memories out of her head. Either option were rather bad, and fairly annoying to her, whenever she focused on it for too long.

On 2022-05-22 at 12:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

In regards to heading down to the surface, Blitz would be denied outright, as it wasn't safe for the scientists to go down yet, much less a filly. Brittle would fall in the same bucket being of too young, plus not having any notable skills that would make her useful on the surface, so it was unlikely that Briar would be willing to go down.

Light though would be able to go down, provided he could convince General Hightower of his competence and General Quarters of his physical abilities. (See -Buttercup-'s posts for Spiral's experience proving herself.)

Blitz would giggle, as they'd suggest she went down, and said the same thing she told Light. She weren't going there.

As for Brittle, Briar respectfully mentioned that whilst he were following these as best he could, his place remained here, on The Æther, and not down there, in the frozen wastes. He were not suited for the climate, and he had others to protect up here, so he'd leave this to more experienced, prepared beings.

There were also the untold thing, about how he were a valuable resource to keep alive, due to his essence. The agriculture department made good use of it, and as such, him remaining up here, had more value, tan down there, for several reasons. Be they pragmatic, or personal.

Though he'd wish those who would, the best of luck, in their endeavors. And inform them, that if they met any of his kin down there, to greet them by saying *Earth Mother bless you, friend.* It would fall in better grounds, than attacking, and might provide them with an ally, in the unlikely chance they'd encounter one.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

Light would love to stay with them but, curiosity urges him to go down there.

"So I just need to prove myself?"

He would then lift his hoof and create a powerful aura, then punch a hole with ease from the flooring.

" Would that work?" 

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@-Buttercup-

Her companions were unsure about splitting up, Sure spoke up: "We don't know what's in here, there could be traps and defenses still hidden within. It wouldn't be a good idea to split up until we know what we're up against. If there were more of us we could pair off, but with it being just us three, we should stick together."

Zhanna nodded, "We'll stick together for now, I'm sure they'll be sending plenty of others to do the exploring once we can ensure it's safe in here."

That said, they would only loosely follow Spiral, keeping up with whichever way she decided to go, while taking a few steps down any unblocked hallway they cam across that Spiral didn't go down, just to see what was there.

The hallway they were in seemed to span the whole length of the front of the structure, the outward facing half full of the same ice as outside. There were no exits from the hallway until they reached the end and it turned a corner, at which point the ice would stop being a dominant feature of the hallway.

The magical conduits that trailed in from outside had also lined the iced half of the hallway, and turned with the hallway, now uncovered from the ice and available for them to cut if they wanted to.

After turning the corner there were now doorways and other hallways to explore. Everything was quiet, the only sound their own hooves against the smooth stone floor, and the air very still. The architecture was rather imposing, tall ceilings with towering pillars, everything polished to a reflective shine, they would encounter many rooms that one would expect in a palace: Ballrooms, audience chambers, several different servants quarters, kitchens, etc. But in all cases there was not a single pony to be seen. Nor any evidence of traps.

 

@Blitz Boom

(I should clarify, no one suggested that she should go down, my post was in response to if she asked to go down, given Light indicated a desire to depart.)

(You're going to need to indicate where you want to go now, given how everything got shaken up, maybe it would be a good idea to check on Wildebeast?)

 

@Kujamih

(I'm going to give you a chance to try again, punching a hole in the floor is not going to impress anyone, and will only serve to get you thrown in the brig, or off the project. Please indicate which General you're trying to convince, and how you intend to impress them. Again, please look back in the story to when Spiral had to prove herself to see what the Generals are expecting.)

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

It was just a small hole though?  And Light does have insight in the story.... My insight.... The thing is I didn't read much on what Spiral did.

He was trying to impress anyone really... He just wanted to get down there, so yeah.... I think Light would do something that careless....

( Crap sorry I thought this was the other thread....)

Edited May 29, 2022 by Kujamih

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle

Spiral didn't object to their statements on splitting up and proceeded to walk about the place carefully. They could see she was constantly keeping an eye out for any traps or anything of the sort. However, she couldn't deny that it felt very surreal to be here in the first place. First, she would walk down the hallway and shine her horn on the various areas along the hallway. With no exits or anything of real interest, she would turn back and lead them back to where they were.

She'd lead them about the place. Looking for anything of historical or material value. Spiral would remark occasionally at how amazing this place was, to think that such a place was hidden for this long under the ice. Above all else, she hoped that it would provide answers for what they sought. It crossed her mind, that when they get back, they should cut out some of that armor they found in the ice. Perhaps they could make use of that, back on the project - Spiral would propose. 

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

LIGHT would easily see the dismay and anger of the ponies around him and would quickly fix it with a wave of his hoof.

" Ta-da! Hehehe I was just kidding*gulp*."

Light just manipulated the light and remolded the metal he punctured. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Kujamih

Seeing how everything had worked itself out here on their end, it appeared that they had little to no direction to work with, regarding the combat below, Briar figured now were a good time to take charge himself.

"Blitz? As we have reached the point where it appears Light have other things to attend, might I suggest we go and find Silver, and update her, on what we have learned of her daughter? I am certain it would ease her mind greatly."

"Oh! Good idea. Have fun down there Light."

She'd wave enthusiastically, with a big grin on her face, as she said this.

"And do try to come back safe. I am certain that there are potential dangers down there."

"There better be."

Rounding a corner, the originator of that voice would come into view. Not one whom Briar, nor Blitz, had ever seen before.

The mare wore a sharp sword in a scabbard, down her side, and well polished armor. Blitz could even see her own reflection, in everything from the torso plate, to her shoes, and the red gem strapped in front. She wasn't sure what sort, yet it still pretty. Only thing she couldn't reflect herself in, were the short-knife, and the winter coat, that the mare had slung on her back.

"Woah, you're pretty."

"And you're in the wrong area. Get back to the foal area. Now."

While many were swayed by her charms, Last Stand were not in the mood to even pretend. She were having a thumping ache in the wound beneath her armor, and the pain killers were doing jack. So she'd look at Blitz with a strict, uncaring look, that the filly could never remember being faced with before. It wouldn't deter her from smiling, but it was mighty odd.

"I do not mean to intrude, but-"

"You'll take her. If I find out you let her down there, I'll break your leg."

Briar were one who wanted to think the best of others, but this one were rubbing him the wrong way, and he'd feel a vine slide out from his back. Something she responded to, by looking, then returning her gaze to his face.

"I'm not impressed."

Last Stand was a very direct mare, and rubbed many the wrong way. Especially as she didn't know how to socialize, even at the best of times. And now were not one of those, as she had been recently injured, and were getting a checkup, and meds, when this whole thing had started.

The doctors had protested, but she didn't care. Just went to her room, got what she needed, and came here. Too late for the first wave, but she'd be there for the second.

It was with this in mind, that she then moved past the two of them, and towards the one that would accept combatants below. Though she'd give a brief look towards Light, with her open eye. She did not seem impressed.

"Last Stand, reporting for duty."

Blitz and Briar would scurry along, to look for Silver, but they would remember this rude mare. Most who met her did, and as such, did theirs to avoid her, unless they wanted to spar with her for training. And that was a few only, who tended to want that, as she were not soft on those she sparred with. Wasn't unusual for those who fought her, to need time to rest their multitude of bruises.