private The Æther Project

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Kujamih@Props Valroa@Illiad Easle

(Plein and Brittle)

"You're right. It's best not to get careless, or think things will be smoother from here. Best if we just keep going, and then hope the guards can solve this issue themselves."

She might have been able to held find out who were nearing honestly. She were good at sensing emotions, and while they had smell, sound, and anti-magic covered, a sense of emotion could also do something. That said however, Brittle were not much of a combatant, and she had been given an order to stay and handle this. It were probably best not to cause concern, by having her hinder their search, in the way of being more of a nuisance and distraction, than an actual help.

Might help keep Plein and her safe though, if whatever it were, broke through them, and snuck nearer to them. If it felt something, she could probably sense it, and thus, it were a warning for them. She best keep her senses high for this, just in case.

While her magic shook the tent-poles she were connecting and setting up for a moment, Brittle would take some deep breaths, and then approach things with some calm again. She were still not perfect at keeping her fear and nervousness in check, but she had gotten much better over the years, and could function. Briar and a few others, had also shown her some techniques, and introduced her to several calming hobbies, that tended to help at times. Some songs to hum now and again, also did the trick sometimes.

Thorn Weaver had taught her a surprisingly good thing to keep herself in check, which were somewhat surprising, considering the peculiar evergrown, had been terrifying to her, the first time Brittle had seen her. It involved putting her hoof to the ground, or any surface, though dirt would be best, and then in fluid motions draw fluid patterns. They didn't need to mean anything, she were just meant to draw, focus on not lifting her hoof, and watch the lines turn to swirls and was, spreading calmly around or in front of her.

She had a suspicion that it were some kind of sub-conscious manipulation, and that the times when Thorn Weaver had showed her, she had done something externally, that made her sub-consciousness, connect this with calmness, but she didn't know for sure. Thorn Weaver did not show her hoof on things, unless she deemed it important, or necessary, and she were rather subtle, when she had an inkling to be so. Which were one of the nicer things, that others than her fellow evergrown, tended to say about her. There were reasons why she mostly kept to herself, and added benefits to the project away from general view.

Frankly, she sometimes worried that Belladonna were the only non-evergrown friend, that Thorn Weaver even had, though she were told by Briar that she didn't need to worry about that. He wouldn't say more, which made her think that he had promised to not divulge it, and he were one, who respected the privacy of others, if they asked it of him. Combined with him being a good listener, it resulted in a few confining in him now and again, and whatever they said to him, she didn't know. He respected their wish to keep it from others, as much as he did hers, and she could not fault him for that.

Thinking of Briar and the other evergrown, helped to calm her a bit more. A smile even crept on her face, when she remembered how even now, Oakley would sometimes pick her up, put her on his back, and take her on a little run. He knew she enjoyed that, as his presence felt very secure to her, and he personally enjoyed doing such things for a laugh. Simple pleasures, for a simple being, as some said. But then, what were wrong with that, right?

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

 

(Last, Maud, Light)

Last stood silent and still, sword still where it had been, when this creature had revealed itself, claiming surrender. Of all the things she had seen, she had not expected this to be it, so it took a couple of seconds, before she got her bearings again. It had been a while since some shapeshifter, or mind reading thing that made illusions, had dug in, and pulled out this particular memory of a pony. It had happened a couple of times before though. Some nasty things, but all of them crumbled, once they were close enough to the blade. Should have been as it were, but some were resistent enough, that it took nearly touching them. No big deal bridging that gap, and see what they were really dealing with.

She'd move the blade - still flat side, to avoid cutting - towards Light, and kept going. Went so far, as to the blade resting on the side of his face, and yet... Nothing. He did not change. She did not suddenly see a blob of mucus and teeth, or a deranged science experiment, or any other matter of the freaking things you sometimes saw, when dealing with one cloaking themselves. He didn't even vanish, which would indicate that he was an illusion.

This... Were impossible. He were dead. Removed from reality. It could... It wasn't possible.. Right? But this one didn't get affected by the anti-magic. He knew their language, which shouldn't happen, if this was really some world where ponies had never set hoof. And it couldn't be mind-reading and tricks, when there were no magic, right? But still, it shouldn't... Especially after all these years. Twenty years, while he barely looked a day older. That wasn't rational.

But then, his disappearance hadn't been either, right? He had just vanished, away with The Empress. What if he hadn't...

"...White Light? Is that you?"

He might recognize something too. If nothing else, then perhaps the blade poking him, and the energy on it, would be somewhat familiar to him. Unless he often went around enchanting blades for overly violent mares, which... Okay, were in character, but still, it couldn't be That many, right?

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

@Kujamih@Props Valroa@Illiad Easle

(Plein and Brittle)

"You're right. It's best not to get careless, or think things will be smoother from here. Best if we just keep going, and then hope the guards can solve this issue themselves."

She might have been able to held find out who were nearing honestly. She were good at sensing emotions, and while they had smell, sound, and anti-magic covered, a sense of emotion could also do something. That said however, Brittle were not much of a combatant, and she had been given an order to stay and handle this. It were probably best not to cause concern, by having her hinder their search, in the way of being more of a nuisance and distraction, than an actual help.

Might help keep Plein and her safe though, if whatever it were, broke through them, and snuck nearer to them. If it felt something, she could probably sense it, and thus, it were a warning for them. She best keep her senses high for this, just in case.

While her magic shook the tent-poles she were connecting and setting up for a moment, Brittle would take some deep breaths, and then approach things with some calm again. She were still not perfect at keeping her fear and nervousness in check, but she had gotten much better over the years, and could function. Briar and a few others, had also shown her some techniques, and introduced her to several calming hobbies, that tended to help at times. Some songs to hum now and again, also did the trick sometimes.

Thorn Weaver had taught her a surprisingly good thing to keep herself in check, which were somewhat surprising, considering the peculiar evergrown, had been terrifying to her, the first time Brittle had seen her. It involved putting her hoof to the ground, or any surface, though dirt would be best, and then in fluid motions draw fluid patterns. They didn't need to mean anything, she were just meant to draw, focus on not lifting her hoof, and watch the lines turn to swirls and was, spreading calmly around or in front of her.

She had a suspicion that it were some kind of sub-conscious manipulation, and that the times when Thorn Weaver had showed her, she had done something externally, that made her sub-consciousness, connect this with calmness, but she didn't know for sure. Thorn Weaver did not show her hoof on things, unless she deemed it important, or necessary, and she were rather subtle, when she had an inkling to be so. Which were one of the nicer things, that others than her fellow evergrown, tended to say about her. There were reasons why she mostly kept to herself, and added benefits to the project away from general view.

Frankly, she sometimes worried that Belladonna were the only non-evergrown friend, that Thorn Weaver even had, though she were told by Briar that she didn't need to worry about that. He wouldn't say more, which made her think that he had promised to not divulge it, and he were one, who respected the privacy of others, if they asked it of him. Combined with him being a good listener, it resulted in a few confining in him now and again, and whatever they said to him, she didn't know. He respected their wish to keep it from others, as much as he did hers, and she could not fault him for that.

Thinking of Briar and the other evergrown, helped to calm her a bit more. A smile even crept on her face, when she remembered how even now, Oakley would sometimes pick her up, put her on his back, and take her on a little run. He knew she enjoyed that, as his presence felt very secure to her, and he personally enjoyed doing such things for a laugh. Simple pleasures, for a simple being, as some said. But then, what were wrong with that, right?

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

 

(Last, Maud, Light)

Last stood silent and still, sword still where it had been, when this creature had revealed itself, claiming surrender. Of all the things she had seen, she had not expected this to be it, so it took a couple of seconds, before she got her bearings again. It had been a while since some shapeshifter, or mind reading thing that made illusions, had dug in, and pulled out this particular memory of a pony. It had happened a couple of times before though. Some nasty things, but all of them crumbled, once they were close enough to the blade. Should have been as it were, but some were resistent enough, that it took nearly touching them. No big deal bridging that gap, and see what they were really dealing with.

She'd move the blade - still flat side, to avoid cutting - towards Light, and kept going. Went so far, as to the blade resting on the side of his face, and yet... Nothing. He did not change. She did not suddenly see a blob of mucus and teeth, or a deranged science experiment, or any other matter of the freaking things you sometimes saw, when dealing with one cloaking themselves. He didn't even vanish, which would indicate that he was an illusion.

This... Were impossible. He were dead. Removed from reality. It could... It wasn't possible.. Right? But this one didn't get affected by the anti-magic. He knew their language, which shouldn't happen, if this was really some world where ponies had never set hoof. And it couldn't be mind-reading and tricks, when there were no magic, right? But still, it shouldn't... Especially after all these years. Twenty years, while he barely looked a day older. That wasn't rational.

But then, his disappearance hadn't been either, right? He had just vanished, away with The Empress. What if he hadn't...

"...White Light? Is that you?"

He might recognize something too. If nothing else, then perhaps the blade poking him, and the energy on it, would be somewhat familiar to him. Unless he often went around enchanting blades for overly violent mares, which... Okay, were in character, but still, it couldn't be That many, right?

 As the blade touches his face, he'd unconsciously tried to avoid it, but it would eventually touch him.

It seemed the mare infront of him is testing the blade on him, which means she knows how to use it.

Then the mare spoke.

It knows his name which shocked him. But still doesn't know if she is a friend or someone he owed.

"Uhhhh yeeesss?" He answered unsure.

But soon after his stomach would rumble and put him back at his knees.

" Ouuffff, i guess my stomach disagrees with the grass i just ate."

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Maud, Last, and Light)

Once Light revealed himself he was quickly surrounded by the guards that had been pursuing him. They hesitated to get too close to what they assumed was a native, given they weren't dressed like any of them. Amber though got a little closer, coming over to Last's side, "Do you know this pony? Are they dangerous?"

 

(Plein and Brittle)

Plein relaxed a little bit when the trespasser revealed themselves, and was seemingly being subdued by Last. "Looks like Last caught them. I just hope this isn't some sort of distraction, and the real danger is behind us, right?"

She was curious though, as the trespasser seemed to be a pony, she hadn't expected that they'd run into a pony so quickly, especially one who had tried to sneak in. She didn't have high hopes that it wasn't another loyalist.

She wasn't too concerned about there being an ambush from behind though, in part because she and Brittle were in the middle of the camp, and the guards from the second craft were still on the opposite side from where Last had been caught, watching for that exact possibility. 

[White Light]

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Maud, Last, and Light)

Once Light revealed himself he was quickly surrounded by the guards that had been pursuing him. They hesitated to get too close to what they assumed was a native, given they weren't dressed like any of them. Amber though got a little closer, coming over to Last's side, "Do you know this pony? Are they dangerous?"

 

(Plein and Brittle)

Plein relaxed a little bit when the trespasser revealed themselves, and was seemingly being subdued by Last. "Looks like Last caught them. I just hope this isn't some sort of distraction, and the real danger is behind us, right?"

She was curious though, as the trespasser seemed to be a pony, she hadn't expected that they'd run into a pony so quickly, especially one who had tried to sneak in. She didn't have high hopes that it wasn't another loyalist.

She wasn't too concerned about there being an ambush from behind though, in part because she and Brittle were in the middle of the camp, and the guards from the second craft were still on the opposite side from where Last had been caught, watching for that exact possibility. 

" I can bite and kick..." He answered

" I'm also good at hearing." He pointed at his ears while still raising his arm hooves.

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Kujamih@Props Valroa@Illiad Easle

(Last, Maud, Light)

On 2023-06-17 at 1:52 PM, Kujamih said:

"Uhhhh yeeesss?" He answered unsure.

But soon after his stomach would rumble and put him back at his knees.

" Ouuffff, i guess my stomach disagrees with the grass i just ate."

On 2023-06-19 at 8:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Once Light revealed himself he was quickly surrounded by the guards that had been pursuing him. They hesitated to get too close to what they assumed was a native, given they weren't dressed like any of them. Amber though got a little closer, coming over to Last's side, "Do you know this pony? Are they dangerous?"

"It's actually you..."

Last would go over, and use her hoof, sword still in hand, to actually poke at Last. Giving his nose a little boop in the process, as she were testing if she might just be seeing things, but nope. This really seemed to be him.

The next part she'd later recount as having been intensely undignified on her part, as she'd drop the sword, and actually go in to give this old blast from the past a hug. A tight, strong one at that, for about four seconds, before she'd realize what she were doing, and would let go, take a step back, and grabbed the sword again. She'd clear her throat before talking after that, embarrassed at what had just overtaken her.

"Sorry, that was... Unbecoming.

His name is White Light, and I know him alright. Twenty years past, he and I were part of a group, that went on a surface mission, to get The Æther out of some sort of trap it had gotten caught it. He was a nuisance and a pest, but when push came to shove, he saved our hides, by taking on, and defeating a powerful monster, but he vanished with it. We thought he'd sacrificed himself. Died along with that thing, cancelling it out somehow. Saved our lives, and helped in no small part to free the ship.

He's the one who enchanted my blade with anti-magic, so yes, he's got dangerous abilities. Though I don't know how... *sigh* How are you here, Light? Have you been stuck here, for all those years? Why haven't you aged then?"

A glimmer of realisation came to mind, and her eyes would narrow, a cold, icy glare, cast his way that might be familiar too, even if only her eyes would be shown (in case of full body suits. Clarification needed), though the manner of the look, were not meant for Light. It were more who else he had vanished alongside with.

"Is that thing here too?"

He'd need to be interrogated proper, but she were having little doubt anymore. Even his way of just apparently casually eating things he did not know were good or bad for him, and vomiting in front of them, were so... Him, that it were staggering to think it might not be.

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

 

(Plein and Brittle)

On 2023-06-19 at 8:57 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Looks like Last caught them. I just hope this isn't some sort of distraction, and the real danger is behind us, right?"

"I don't feel anything, but... Is she hugging him? I don't think I've ever seen her hug anyone, except for her foals, and her husband, and I've known her for decades."

This was frankly a weird sight. She knew Last as someone who didn't like to show public affection like this. Some exceptions were made, when it came to her family now and again, but she were just not the sort to do something like this. Yet there she were, hugging - albeit briefly - this odd intruder. Something which made Brittle halt her actions, and look at him a bit more, tilting her head to the left, as she tried torummage through her memories.

"He kinda looks familiar... I can't place it in my head though. Maybe he's one of her disciples, that got lost on one of the other missions, and somehow ended up here? Pretty fortunate that we found him then.

We should probably just keep setting up the base though, and wait for them to tell us more... Right? They should have things covered over there."

Not much else to do, than keep on working, right? Hopefully they'd get to know more later, but at least for now, it seemed like at least it were a familiar face to at least some of them. That should mean it were okay.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Sorry, that was... Unbecoming.

This took him by surprise. Who knows how long it was since he felt a warm embrace of a mare.

" Uhhh... I mean... I dont mind the hug... If you want... I.. I don't, i dont mind..."

 

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

He's the one who enchanted my blade with anti-magic, so yes, he's got dangerous abilities. Though I don't know how... *sigh* How are you here, Light? Have you been stuck here, for all those years? Why haven't you aged then?"

"... Ooohhhh so thats what happened... Yeah i think I'm remembering it...i was stuck on limbo for centuries because of you guys, NOW i remember... How long was i really gone missing?" 

 

2 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

Is that thing here too?"

"...... Thing?.... Oh the alicorn? Yeah she is, she is.... Not sure where she went though after i got thrown into this world.... But shes cool now since weve been stuck together and fighting void creatures, we've been close buds... I think..."

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Maud, Last, and Light)

Amber Shepherd stayed cautious as White Light was brought back up to speed, moving to separate White and Last when they went to hug, "Hold up now, what proof do we have that this even is who you say? And not some imposter drawing off of your memories? I think that that is more likely than just surviving in a void all this time, and just so happening to cross paths with us again unaged."

She motioned for some of the other guards to approach, "Lock him up for now, I'm going to see what command thinks. You two," she pointed to Last and Maud, "I want you to keep your distance for now, until we know for sure. Even if he is who you say he is, whatever happened between now and then might have made him dangerous. I don't need your history with him clouding your judgement. Doubly so if he is an imposter. He said himself that's he's friends with the monster you were fighting."

(To clarify the suits, the hazardous materials suits cover everything, with the face plate having visors that cover the eyes that adjust the tint automatically according to light levels, so in shade you'd be able to see eyes, but in sunlight it would be like wearing sunglasses. Those with armor are wearing the armor on the outside of the suits.)

If Last and Maud did not intervene, a pair of griffons would approach to apprehend Light and move him to a secure area in the camp. Amber would move back to the aircraft to communicate with the Project, reporting that a creature who had been potentially ID'd as White Light had been captured on the ground. Information on White Light was requested as well as a command decision on what to do with him.

@Props Valroa

Spiral would be notified of Amber's report with respect to White Light.

 

(Plein and Brittle)

Plein looked over at the commotion with the guards at White, "Yeah, that's weird. Aurum always described Last as very hooves-off when it came to other ponies. I hope it's not some sort of spell."

On 2023-06-21 at 2:52 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"He kinda looks familiar... I can't place it in my head though. Maybe he's one of her disciples, that got lost on one of the other missions, and somehow ended up here? Pretty fortunate that we found him then.

We should probably just keep setting up the base though, and wait for them to tell us more... Right? They should have things covered over there."

Plein didn't look too sure, "We only just got here, if they had been left behind, what, they traveled the globe looking for us and just so happened to be here when we showed up? I don't buy it."

She nodded though when Brittle said to finish up the camp, "We're just about done here anyway. You figure out which tent you want? Looks like we're putting four per tent, except for the griffons who are bigger, maybe we try and get a tent together?"

After Amber sent off her report and waited for orders regarding White she'd come back over to Plein and Brittle, "Good work you two, do either of you have cooking experience to help out the chefs? Otherwise, sit tight. Once we have orders for our 'guest' we'll figure out exploratory teams."

 

On 2023-06-21 at 5:35 AM, Kujamih said:

"...... Thing?.... Oh the alicorn? Yeah she is, she is.... Not sure where she went though after i got thrown into this world.... But shes cool now since weve been stuck together and fighting void creatures, we've been close buds... I think..."

(Very delusional. Avarice is a draconequis, not an alicorn, and never spoke to him, turned herself to stone. They did nothing in the void, there were no void creatures, and they were definitely never friends. But if you want White to be wholly deluded about this, I think that would be interesting when Avarice makes an appearance after they all return to Equestria.)

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

" only 20 years!?.... I was sure i wass tuck there for hundreds though.... Damn that sucks."

Light knows he is too weak and unknowledgeable of whats happening here. The smartest action he'd take is to play along.

" Hey, what you guys say MIGHT be true that i could be just some creature playing with your memory... BUT i can say the same thing about you all! How do i know you wont kill me? Or worse EAT ME ALIVE!?..." The pony tried to confuse the others.

" But! if you give me water and some food I'd happily be of service to you all."

The griffins would grab him and drag him off quite easily.

" Oh so is that a deal then?... You guys gonna bring me where the food and water is, right?.... Right?.... You aint gonna eat me right....." He clammers on as he gets dragged off.

( And yes light IS delusional... Actually i forgot a lot of things and forgetting key details and i has no time for back reading WHICH is a good thing for Light who has missing memories and probably delusional..... Yup .... Thats whats really up.)

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Kujamih@Props Valroa@Illiad Easle

(Last, Maud, Light)

On 2023-06-22 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Amber Shepherd stayed cautious as White Light was brought back up to speed, moving to separate White and Last when they went to hug, "Hold up now, what proof do we have that this even is who you say? And not some imposter drawing off of your memories? I think that that is more likely than just surviving in a void all this time, and just so happening to cross paths with us again unaged."

She motioned for some of the other guards to approach, "Lock him up for now, I'm going to see what command thinks. You two," she pointed to Last and Maud, "I want you to keep your distance for now, until we know for sure. Even if he is who you say he is, whatever happened between now and then might have made him dangerous. I don't need your history with him clouding your judgement. Doubly so if he is an imposter. He said himself that's he's friends with the monster you were fighting."

They wouldn't have a chance to separate the two of them, before Last had done so herself. They'd also need to be a few more to try and claw something from her grasp. Potentially a sedative or three. Might be Last were getting up in age, but that didn't mean that she had gone soft. The training did its job, at keeping her at her peak. But no need to test that now. Her outburst had been unintentional, and frankly, she didn't want it to happen in the first place, so there would be no repeated clinging here. Bloody emotional reaction... You'd think she'd be above that sometimes.

As for the order given to her, Last would turn and look directly at Amber's face. Tinted glasses or not, her gaze were as steely as ever, and she looked at the one in charge with a harsh, cold stare. So pretty much the same as always, when she were serious.

"I have dealt with shapeshifters before. I know what to look for, and I know that anti-magic deals with any of them, that tries to read off of your mind, to change perception. This one is real.

But you're right. Lock him up, and run your tests to make sure, then interrogate him, to make certain. If you need details to compare with, just ask."

She'd give a small nod to Amber, and stand back. A sliver of approvement were in her eyes, but frankly, the fact she backed down rather than stand her ground, were proof to those who knew her, that she acknowledged Amber in the lead. Despite Last knowing that this were White Light, it were the account of her, and that of Maud it all relied on. And while they were reliable voices, she'd like to think, this were still from a twenty year old perspective. Amber couldn't know if something had been glorified in their memories, if this one were tricking them, or if it were Light, where his loyalties then were. She did the smart option in taking him away to verify all those things, before she potentially brought The Æther in danger, by returning with him, with any levels of uncertainty.

"Two things for now: One is that if he read my mind to fool us, he did a poor job of it.

Second off, steel yourself with patience. He tends to be annoying. Try not to let that distract you.."

She doubted that had changed at least. Didn't seem like it, judging by his outburst after that. Apparently she hadn't overthought how much he got on her nerves sometimes, though she had started to doubt her memory about that every now and again. Seems her mind hadn't played tricks on her, cause here he were, going at it again. Though frankly, they could offer some water at the least. She were sure Amber would handle that though. She seemed too young and wanting to prove herself, to be a sadistic torture investigator. Those usually took more time, and had a certain look to them. Except for Marble, of course. That geezer looked as innocent as could be, but were probably the most vile interrogator they had, when given free reigns. Nasty piece of work.

As for the current situation? She wouldn't do anything, as he would be dragged off, and unless told otherwise, would go back to her duty from before Light had snuck into the camp. Surprise visit or not, they still had work to do.

"Comply with her inquiry, Light. Your chances are better then."

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

 

(Plein and Brittle)

On 2023-06-22 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Plein looked over at the commotion with the guards at White, "Yeah, that's weird. Aurum always described Last as very hooves-off when it came to other ponies. I hope it's not some sort of spell."

"I don't think that would work. Her sword is anti-magical, so it shouldn't anyway, I think? I'm sure we'll be told what's going on later, when everything's settled down."

Least she hoped so. It would be rather confusing to see this otherwise, with no context, and having to stay confused at what were going on. That's how rumors started, and that probably wouldn't be beneficial for anyone.

On 2023-06-22 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Plein didn't look too sure, "We only just got here, if they had been left behind, what, they traveled the globe looking for us and just so happened to be here when we showed up? I don't buy it."

She nodded though when Brittle said to finish up the camp, "We're just about done here anyway. You figure out which tent you want? Looks like we're putting four per tent, except for the griffons who are bigger, maybe we try and get a tent together?"

"That would be nice yes. Unless Last is in the same tent, then I have to find another.

It's n-not that I don't like her, but like I said, her sword is anti-magical. One mishap, and it would kill me. I think it's best that I don't sleep around it, just to avoid risks."

She knew she wasn't the only changeling that avoided Last sometimes, due to that sword. Sure she could probably kill one of them regardless, using only her hooves, but that would be intent. The sword could do it by accident. One reason why she didn't go around with it, but instead another blade, and only had this one ready for missions, or if anything happened on the ship. She weren't sure where exactly Last kept it otherwise though. She kept that to herself. Probably paranoia about others trying to steal it. It were probably in her crew's training area, or in her room though.

On 2023-06-22 at 9:06 PM, Illiad Easle said:

After Amber sent off her report and waited for orders regarding White she'd come back over to Plein and Brittle, "Good work you two, do either of you have cooking experience to help out the chefs? Otherwise, sit tight. Once we have orders for our 'guest' we'll figure out exploratory teams."

Brittle would raise her hoof, as she were asked if any of them had cooking experience.

"I don't have gourmet experience, but I know how to prepare regular food, and meat. My dad insisted that I had to learn, to prepare for leaving when The Æther landed back home."

She did still need emotions mostly, and yes, she had somewhat of a sensitive stomach growing up, but it had gotten better over the years, and she could help with cooking. Long as it wasn't stressful, and a lot started to yell at her. Then accidents might happen. If there were other chefs, she'd probably do best doing stuff like peeling potatoes, or slow cooking stuff. Something that didn't have a lot of stress factor to it, though this were a small crew, and they weren't currently in a rush. So there'd hopefully not be yelling and stressing in the kitchen. So she could help with several things. Might be she wasn't the best, but there were real chefs. They could taste things with spices proper, and make sure that she were made to good use, doing things that they needed. Even if it was the dishes.

Like her dad kept saying: Never look down on the humble workers, for they are too needed, to keep the wheels turning.

No job were so small, that it didn't serve a function, and long as it did, there were a need for someone to do it. So why look down on anyone taking in that responsibility?

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Maud, Last, and Light)

On 2023-06-24 at 1:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I have dealt with shapeshifters before. I know what to look for, and I know that anti-magic deals with any of them, that tries to read off of your mind, to change perception. This one is real.

But you're right. Lock him up, and run your tests to make sure, then interrogate him, to make certain. If you need details to compare with, just ask."

Amber didn't look too impressed at Last's confidence. "This whole place is different from what we're used to. Is it so hard to imagine that there could be a new kind of imposter here?"

On 2023-06-24 at 1:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"Two things for now: One is that if he read my mind to fool us, he did a poor job of it.

Second off, steel yourself with patience. He tends to be annoying. Try not to let that distract you.."

Amber nodded, "All the more evidence that this could be an imposter."

On 2023-06-26 at 3:26 PM, Maud Pie said:

"Lock him up and segregate him from the rest of the Away Team. Feel free to interrogate him."

The guards were quick to move Light to the far end of the camp, opposite the aircraft, in case he tried to escape and damage things. They didn't have cages to hold him in, as they didn't usually take captives on away missions, but they did have cuffs with anti-magical properties that would hinder efforts to escape. With the cuffs he was tied to one of the posts, so all the guards would be notified if he left the post, but was otherwise not kept under strong guard, just two guards who were also watching the perimeter.

 

Amber wasn't in a hurry to interrogate the interloper, especially after what she had heard from command about him. He seemed like a liability in either case, and as such could wait until the camp was fully set up and everyone settled in before talking. Maybe if he was an imposter, he'd get bored and leave before she had to deal with him?

 

(Plein and Brittle)

On 2023-06-24 at 1:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I don't think that would work. Her sword is anti-magical, so it shouldn't anyway, I think? I'm sure we'll be told what's going on later, when everything's settled down."

Plein shrugged, "Maybe it's something unique to this place, that isn't magical? I hope that's not the case either, as that would mean that these suits aren't keeping us safe from everything."

On 2023-06-24 at 1:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"That would be nice yes. Unless Last is in the same tent, then I have to find another.

It's n-not that I don't like her, but like I said, her sword is anti-magical. One mishap, and it would kill me. I think it's best that I don't sleep around it, just to avoid risks."

Plein nodded, "That's fair, I'm sure they'll keep that in mind when they make assignments. And if not, I'm sure Amber would be willing to accommodate for your safety."

 

On 2023-06-24 at 1:51 AM, Blitz Boom said:

"I don't have gourmet experience, but I know how to prepare regular food, and meat. My dad insisted that I had to learn, to prepare for leaving when The Æther landed back home."

Amber nodded, "Perfect, we don't need anything fancy, it's mostly all prepared anyway. All you'll have to do is put the last pieces together and portion it out to everyone, and make sure no one tries to take extra, we don't want to run out of supplies and have to return early."

Plein would stay behind as Amber led Brittle over to the cook tent, where there were already a pair of diamond dogs taller than Amber with aprons working on the food. They looked over at Amber and Brittle as they entered, "Jasper, Topaz, this is Brittle, she'll be helping out today while VeeGee is guarding the intruder."

The two dogs looked over Brittle and nodded, "Alright,"

"Topaz hopes she can keep up."

The one who spoke in third person motioned for Brittle to come closer, "We will take-care of the meat and the gems, you can take-care of the pony-food yes? Is sandwiches today, take-care when giving food, ponies don't-like when find meat in food, hit Topaz for mistake."

The other dog, Jasper, snorted at that, "They tapped you at best Pep, lucky they caught it before they ate it." She turned towards Brittle, "Don't mind him, I'm sure you'll do fine."

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Kujamih@Props Valroa@Illiad Easle

(Last, Maud, Light)

14 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Amber didn't look too impressed at Last's confidence. "This whole place is different from what we're used to. Is it so hard to imagine that there could be a new kind of imposter here?"

Last looked back at Amber, her steely gaze as unchanged as ever.

"No, it's not, and I would say it, if I didn't agree with you being cautious."

It appeared that Amber mistook something here. Last were not saying *I am sure, therefore I am right*. She said that she were certain this were Light, based on her own experiences, but that she acknowledged that she could be wrong. As such, it were the best choice, to have him examined by more impartial sources, who had other experiences. If she turned out to be wrong? It were what it were. She were not infallible after all.

If she hadn't agreed on this being the right choice, she would have voiced it. She were brutally honest about those sorts of things.

15 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Amber nodded, "All the more evidence that this could be an imposter."

She didn't say anything about that. She had given her piece, as had Maud. This were no longer for her to decide on, and thus, she would get on with things. There were work to do.

Once they were off to secure the perimeter again, Last would speak with Maud however.

"Been thinking about him lately, as we're nearing the end of our journey. Seeing him like this, I had a lapse in judgement. It was foolish. Even if I feel certain it is him, I should've acted with restraint.

I barely knew him back then, despite how it looked before. I thought him little more than a distracting nuisance. But his sacrifice were a humbling lesson. Something I've carried with me, and honored. His story, is part of what I teach my guards, and my foals, to learn them the value of life, and the choices we make with it. Something to make them better than how I... We, were.

But it's no excuse. I acted rashly, and I was lucky that it didn't backfire."

She wasn't trying to make excuses here. She accepted that she had done something foolish, and if this had been some sort of attacker, it could have gotten her killed. It were foolish, and she would be mentally beratting herself over this for a while. Especially once she saw her foals again, and were reminded that she might have ended up not coming home again. Dead before they even grew up, just like had happened with  herself and her sister. They still had their father, but it weren't right. She shouldn't take such risks. Had sworn that she wouldn't, for their sake. She had failed that, and gotten lucky. If she tried again another time, who were to say that she'd be lucky again?

"You're probably the most rational creature I've ever known, Maud. What's your thought on what's happening?"

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

 

(Plein and Brittle)

On 2023-06-29 at 7:12 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Plein shrugged, "Maybe it's something unique to this place, that isn't magical? I hope that's not the case either, as that would mean that these suits aren't keeping us safe from everything."

"I'd prefer not to think about it like that. It's just going to cause me anxiety."

On 2023-06-29 at 7:12 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Plein nodded, "That's fair, I'm sure they'll keep that in mind when they make assignments. And if not, I'm sure Amber would be willing to accommodate for your safety."

"Amber seems nice enough. I'm sure there's not a problem either."

On 2023-06-29 at 7:12 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Amber nodded, "Perfect, we don't need anything fancy, it's mostly all prepared anyway. All you'll have to do is put the last pieces together and portion it out to everyone, and make sure no one tries to take extra, we don't want to run out of supplies and have to return early."

"Oh. I can do that then. Happy to help."

Rationing were another thing that she had been taught by her dad. Sure it wasn't needed as much on the ship, but as she wanted to learn about making her way in the world outside, he applied his own knowledge, from a life on the road. That included a healthy attitude towards rationing, as you never knew when you might get into a situation, where you wouldn't be able to get new supplies anytime soon, and had to make what you had last.

On 2023-06-29 at 7:12 PM, Illiad Easle said:

"Jasper, Topaz, this is Brittle, she'll be helping out today while VeeGee is guarding the intruder."

The two dogs looked over Brittle and nodded, "Alright,"

"Topaz hopes she can keep up."

The one who spoke in third person motioned for Brittle to come closer, "We will take-care of the meat and the gems, you can take-care of the pony-food yes? Is sandwiches today, take-care when giving food, ponies don't-like when find meat in food, hit Topaz for mistake."

The other dog, Jasper, snorted at that, "They tapped you at best Pep, lucky they caught it before they ate it." She turned towards Brittle, "Don't mind him, I'm sure you'll do fine."

"I'll d-do my best. Just uhm, l-let me know if I mistake the sizes."

The thought of being punched for accidentally having even a small slice of meat in the sandwiched were... Terrifying. Incentive for her to keep up, and not mess this up, that were for sure.

So she would scurry over to her station, wash her hooves if possible, and then get to work on making the sandwiches.

She were assuming a certain size, but if she were corrected on that, she would adjust accordingly, and make really sure to check what it were that she were putting in them. One slice of meat did almost get in there, as she floated it to the sandwich, but she'd see what it were, and floated it back. The thought on punches kept her mind focused on not doing this. As well as the fact that it could be really bad for any equine's health, and she didn't want that on her conscience.

Thankfully it were just putting together, so it should be somewhat simple enough to keep up, long as she used hooves and horn alike, to make sure that things were kept going along the food line, as it were.

There'd probably be some cleanup after they  were all done, that she could help with too. She'd go and try to keep her own station clean at least. She didn't know what this reality's version of ants were, but she weren't overly keen on finding out.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Blitz Boom

- Light and the Guards.-

"the cuffs fit snuggly on his hooves and felt the elements on the magic.

He would try to analyze it if it affected him, is it a changeling shard?, If not would it be strong enough to nullify his magic since he himself can control changeling shards. If not then the changeling shards in him would leak out and potentially damage the cuffs or attack the source that absorbs magic since the shard would also try to absorb the magic. Since he does not know what is put on to him, he only hopes for the best that nothing bad happens to the reaction hed have on the cuffs.

If he could talk though he would.

" So.... About that food? The last one i ate didn't sit well."

" Anyway how is the the changeling queen? Is she alright? Did furry came out already, or you guys still don't know about him? If so, sorry Fury!"

As he talks he tries to decode and see if he can break the cuffs by either releasing some of his shards on his  hooves to stab the cuff, that is if he can use his shards. And use his brut earth pony strength to break it.

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

(Last and Maud)

A small smile crept on to Last's face. THis were one reason why she liked Maud. The mare were a straight shooter, and about as calm and calculated on things as someone could be. She didn't get clouded by frivolous memories as badly, as Last did. She had also not been there, when everything had happened, and thus didn't have the impact of things to influence her opinion. Though last doubt that would have changed anything if it had.

"We didn't see anything.

He were in the room with that thing that would've taken us all out, fending her off on his own, while we were making our way out. The door slammed behind us, before he could get out. Next thing I know, there were a bright light, shining through the cracks, blasting off the door, and then we were on the cusp of being picked up. I were going back to see if I could drag him out, but when I managed to get a look in there, there were nothing left. Not him, not the thing he were fighting- Nothing.

Best we could guess, were that he had died, cancelling the thing out. It seems the truth might've been more complicated than that.

You're right though. We need to get through several important questions here. Is it him, if it is, how have the time affected him, is he dangerous, potentially contagious- Amber's done the right thing in keeping him off to the side, and not letting us who knows him get near. Best to have an unbiased source get through these things, and then see what's the truth.

She ain't doing badly so far. Her posture needs some work though, and she still ain't been tested under pressure. Not a bad start though."

Last tended to look around while they worked too, staying on alert, in case someone - or something - would approach the camp. Who might be Light had come a fair bit in here. Who could tell if he'd end up being the only one who'd try? They'd see, but at least for now, things seemed calm. And if that were gonna change all of a sudden? Well then, it were good that Maud, herself, and several other trained fighters were ready to act swiftly, to prevent, or minimize the potential casualties.

Something told her that not more would come though, and they'd get to finish their work in peace. But she didn't outright trust that idea. Seemed far too easy.

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Light)

The cuffs appeared to be made out of a steel/anti-magic alloy, making them slightly weaker than normal steel cuffs would be, but as Trojan produced anti-magic was not based on changeling shards, Light would not be able to manipulate them that way. The cuffs seemed to project an aura such that the closer to the cuffs themselves he tried to use magic, the harder it got. Within a hoof's width of them only an alicorn could hope to overpower it. For Light, he'd be able, with effort, to use magic affecting the top of his head, maybe down to the base of his neck if he stretched away from the cuffs, but if he tried to cast any spell on the cuffs themselves it would simply fizzle out. The cuffs couldn't even be grasped with telekinesis.

When it came to his strength however, given the alloy was weaker than steel he could potentially break them with some effort and time, but not without attracting the notice of the guards.

Speaking of, the guards didn't react to Light's attempt at conversation.

 

Amber would come by after about fifteen minutes with a small stack of notes. "Alright, let's see about verifying who you claim to be. We'll start with recent events and move backward. On your last away mission, you entered an ancient unicorn structure with two others. Who were they?"

 

(Brittle)

It looked like Brittle was just in charge of putting the food together in advance of the rest of the team coming, so she didn't have to worry about serving ponies live just yet. She actually made pretty good time at it, having all the sandwiches ready before Jasper and Topaz were done with their parts.

"This one is impressed, Topaz did not think you would be so quick. The ponies will be coming-soon for food, make sure each only takes one."

Jasper spoke up, "As it's the first day, you shouldn't have to worry. They only tend to get grabby towards the end when it looks like the food might run out. Also, it looks like there's only two other changelings on this trip, so I'll trust you to portion out the gel for the three of you. Remember that it needs to last the whole time we're here, and so far as I'm aware we don't have the material to make more, so once it's out it's out."

 

(Last and Maud)

They would see Amber heading over to where Light was being kept with some papers, she seemed to be asking some questions to Light.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

11 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Amber would come by after about fifteen minutes with a small stack of notes. "Alright, let's see about verifying who you claim to be. We'll start with recent events and move backward. On your last away mission, you entered an ancient unicorn structure with two others. Who were they?"

It seems the changeling shard and the anti magic material just neutralized each other out. If the material was weak then he can break free easily by just forcing the shards out of his hands.

But ye sees no need to be aggressive since these guards are quite chill and hasn't done anything bad to him.

A few minutes later he would be greeted by amber and questioned.

His memory was fuzzy and unclear.

He would think and ponder deeply.

"...... Ha! Thats a trick question! theres more then 2 creatures who joined me on that mission!...theres Last.... And..... And.... The robot chick.... And.......aaàaaaaand the meek one?... Im not good with names... And i think im missing someone hmmm?"

 

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

(Brittle)

 

It brought a smile to her face, when she were told that she had done well, and done that in good time too. She could still remember vividly how hard it were for her to take such positive comments to her. Mostly she had thought the one saying it were lying to her, or were trying to lure her into lowering her defenses, so they could begin hurting her.

Therapy and her dad's constant support and encouragement, made her eventually try and believe that others meant her well. Certainly her old fears were sometimes validated, as she found out the hard ways, but in the end, she had come to accept that those were the few, not the vast majority. Though if someone looked scary, she did still have some issues trusting them initially, to a certain point. She wouldn't just wander off into an alley with someone for instance, scary or not. She might not be terrified of everything anymore, but she were still somewhat timid, though she'd take that over being afraid that every rustling wind through leaves, were actually the sound of the circus, coming around to drag her back to the nightmare Briar had broken her away from. Though that were still a reoccurring night terror that she couldn't shake.

"T-Thank you for the compliment, and I'll make sure to ration the gel out proper. I think I've been taught enough to know what's needed to keep us functional.

Though uhm, do you know more or less how long we're supposed to be here? Just so I know how long I have to ration for."

She might have been told during the briefing, and forgotten due to sheer excitement. She couldn't rule it out at least, since while she had done her best to be attentive and listen in, this seemed like something they should have been told, and she were drawing a blank right now. So she had to assume it were possible, that she might have forgotten about this.

If they didn't have a time frame, they might at least be able tot ell her how long these generally lasted. Just to give her some idea of how long she should ration that for. Though she did have a bit more to add. Her dad had wanted her to be prepared for things, so he had made sure she had packed a bit of gel with her. Wouldn't last the entire trip of course, as it wasn't a lot, and it were meant only for her, but it would come in handy, if it dragged out some, so she could give them her share. It could probably replace a meal or two. He had also made sure that she had fed before leaving. Might be she were more comfortable with gel these days, than she once had been, but he still let her feed off of him, in cases when it were needed. This had been one of those times in his opinion, and he didn't mind. After having raised her for near twenty-three years, he had gotten more than used to the experience. Frankly hadn't been much of a hassle in the first place, as she were rarely gluttonous.

Her portion could handle perhaps two rations worth for herself, going by the general portion size. Three if she were okay with a growling tummy eventually, but they'd have to see how long they had to be here. Worst case, they'd be a bit hungry, but unless they were here for weeks, they shouldn't be ending up in a more... Desperate state. In parts due to the fact that they had a fair few beings here. If they got stuck, they could share some emotions, long as the three of them didn't try and empty them. But here were hoping that this sort of thing wouldn't have to become a consideration.

 

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

(Maud and Last)

"Like I said, we didn't see him die. Just that he vanished, and the logical conclusion seemed to be that he had died from whatever happened in there. Logic would also say that yeah, this shouldn't be him. That many years, and nothing changed, right in what I'm guessing is some sorta other reality? Something's off yes.

But even knowing him for just a bit back then, it wasn't hard to tell that this one ain't normal. Normal ponies can't just burst strange onyx shards out of their skin, or embed things with anti-magic. I might not know a lot about magic, but I sure know that doing what he did to my sword, isn't something that you should just be able to do like that.

We'll get our answers in time, but frankly, I doubt Light was even a real pony. So I couldn't say what to expect out of him to begin with."

Last kept on working, though she did look at Maud when she were pondering, and giving her perspective to things. Fair ones too at that, since there were a lot here, that they had to evaluate, and juggle around. Like if this were not Light, then who or what was it, and why were they using his face? if it was an attacker, why hadn't they tried something yet? Were it a scout of some sort perhaps? Something that were desperate to get away?

And if it were Light, that added even more questions. like how he were unchanged after all these years, how he had gotten here, if his loyalties had changed, what he were, and so forth. Amber were probably gonna have her talons full with this mess for a while.

"Anyway, it's out of our hooves regardless. Light or not, Amber is gonna be handling this now, and then later if he passes the tests, it's gonna be passed on to the consul to decide what to do with him. I get the feeling our trip here might be cut short though. It's feeling like an omen of sorts."

Omen... Hmph. Reminded her of another she had seen calling herself that actually. A weird pony, with pale eyes, speaking telepathically in a neutral tone, but looking like a spotted earth pony. Ran into that one after the Shrine Maidens had been dismissed, and she had been looking for civilization. Had been asking weird questions about whatever she had seen Discord. That he was her master, and that she wanted to find him. When Last hadn't known, she had stepped into the dark brush, and when Last tried following her, she had vanished. Her trace just vanishing in the middle of nothing.

She kinda wondered if that weirdo ever found Discord. Considering how he had turned out to be in the end, Last got the feeling that that mare wouldn't have been as eager, if she had seen how he had ended his infamous legacy.

Meh, didn't matter. Found him or not, she had probably died, along with most of the rest of the equines, that had not been picked up by The Æther. Hopefully stuff had toned down and calmed since then. if not... She wasn't sure what to do then. The Æther wasn't gonna last forever. Even she could tell that it weren't as sturdy as when they had started, and she could barely figure out a toaster.

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Light)

On 2023-07-10 at 11:27 PM, Kujamih said:

"...... Ha! Thats a trick question! theres more then 2 creatures who joined me on that mission!...theres Last.... And..... And.... The robot chick.... And.......aaàaaaaand the meek one?... Im not good with names... And i think im missing someone hmmm?"

Amber simply noted down his answer before continuing, "Could you clarify? Maybe say what race or species they were?"

Regardless of his answer to her follow up her next question would be, "Soon after you boarded the Project, you were sent for a psych evaluation, what for?"

 

(Brittle)

On 2023-07-11 at 3:16 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Though uhm, do you know more or less how long we're supposed to be here? Just so I know how long I have to ration for."

Jasper looked over at the stack of supplies, "Looks like we've got about ten days of supplies, so I'd guess the mission parameters are no more than one week down here. They try to give us a few days extra on these missions, but don't go telling anyone or they'll try to get extra."

 

(Last, Maud, and Brittle)

While Amber continued her investigation, Last and Maud were rotated out of guard duty to be among the first to eat, being directed over to the tent where Brittle was working with the dogs. As it was the first day down the guards that approached Brittle for their portions weren't confrontational. While some of the bigger ones did ask for a little more, they didn't press the issue when denied, but Jasper and Topaz still noted down who had asked.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom @Props Valroa

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Amber simply noted down his answer before continuing, "Could you clarify? Maybe say what race or species they were?"

"A unicorn, earth pony, and a deer? The other one was really.... forgettable."

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Regardless of his answer to her follow up her next question would be, "Soon after you boarded the Project, you were sent for a psych evaluation, what for?"

"........ Whats the psych evaluation again? Oh is it the time where i vomited? Or was it that time where a crimson changeling attacked me? How is she by the way?" He asked.

" How are the changeling colony? Is the queen okay? Or was she replaced?"

" So how'd i do? Do i get to get some water and food now?" He asked once more.

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

(Brittle)

On 2023-07-18 at 8:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Jasper looked over at the stack of supplies, "Looks like we've got about ten days of supplies, so I'd guess the mission parameters are no more than one week down here. They try to give us a few days extra on these missions, but don't go telling anyone or they'll try to get extra."

"Understood sir. I'll try and portion it out for ten days then. Better to have a surplus, than to run out."

Reminded her of the stories she had been told, of the hive in Las Pegasus. Cheshire or something like that. Had made sure to always have emotion gel at hoof, to help those in need, among their kin. It were probably too much to hope they were still around, but she would admit that she had kind of dreamt now and again to find them. They sounded like such nice, kind changelings, in the few stories she had heard here and there. A hive after her heart.

Though it were unlikely they had made it. A tiny hive by the sounds of things, so it had likely not lasted long. Not when the bigger hives had suffered heavy losses, and some of the far stronger ones had seemingly been decimated. Might be she had never been part of a hive herself, but she did feel sad for those who had been part of those squashed hives. It sounded horrendous to go through, what they had to.

As for the food, she'd do what she were told, and ration out the gel for the amount of days mentioned. She weren't feeling too hungry right now, and had some herself, so she would skip for today, and just add her portion to the stockpile. Might be it would end up becoming something important to have at hoof later.

She were tempted to just add it to the portion of her fellow changelings, but then they'd expect bigger portions next time. It were probably best to keep things consistent.

On 2023-07-18 at 8:59 PM, Illiad Easle said:

While Amber continued her investigation, Last and Maud were rotated out of guard duty to be among the first to eat, being directed over to the tent where Brittle was working with the dogs. As it was the first day down the guards that approached Brittle for their portions weren't confrontational. While some of the bigger ones did ask for a little more, they didn't press the issue when denied, but Jasper and Topaz still noted down who had asked.

Whilst nervous, Brittle would politely say that she had been told to keep the portions the same for everyone. It didn't seem like they would push things now, but if the bigger, stronger ones would get confrontational later on in the trip, someone else would have to take over for her. She couldn't handle that sort of thing well, and would likely cave. Something which could end up hurting all of them in the long run.

She did wish she could give them a bit more though. Going hungry were not good, and whilst this would sate them, it probably didn't fill their bellies. Especially not the larger ones, who realistically, would need more food to feel properly sated.

As for Last, she were not joining them currently. She had her own things to handle on the outside. She'd think of food later, and probably get annoyed about being hungry, but she'd live.

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

 

(Maud and Last)

On 2023-07-19 at 10:33 PM, Maud Pie said:

Maud would look to Last, and largely agree with her statement about Light. "Light from what I remember was no ordinary pony. It was very possible he wasn't even a pony at all. I never knew enough or experienced him enough to know for sure what he was, or what he isn't - I do remember one thing though, he was a load of trouble to be around. I heard stories from others years ago who got into the situations that he caused. Was a mess." Maud spoke. There was silence for a few moments and it seemed like Maud was going to speak further but there was something...off about her stare which seemed to look past Last.

"Yeah, he was a right pain in the..."

She trailed off, as she saw the look in Maud's eyes. Something was up. Potentially something dangerous. So Last would keep her senses up, and ready herself for a sudden attack of some kind. Might be that wouldn't happen, but it were better to be prepared for it, than risking something from another intruder.

On 2023-07-19 at 10:33 PM, Maud Pie said:

Last did not have to wait a moment further to see what Maud had been looking at. Above the nearby mountain they were nearby to, there had been the sudden appearance of a large winged craft. The design of it was nothing like the ponies had seen before. It was made out of some kind of dark green material. It was descending upon their position quite rapidly. Within less than a minute, the craft would be descending down upon them. 

Who was within or what their intentions were was unknown. Maud looked to Last.

"Be on your guard. Someone else is here." she said in an ominous tone, dropping the previous conversation about light. There was something far more important now.

"Ah bugger. I knew I should've kept my yap shut."

She wouldn't grab her sword yet, since they couldn't say for sure if this were a hostile force, but seriously, what were the odds that it wasn't? And considering this sorta tech they had going, they were likely going to become issues. Or she could be wrong, and it were a bunch of robots showing up with hay burgers and fries.

Her bet were on scientists wanting to dissect them though. It were never hay burgers, annoyingly enough.

"Not enough time to sound the alarm. We might have to handle this ourselves for now.

Weapons down, see what'll happen before we try something. They might not be here to kill us all."

That said... Actually she could warn the lot of 'em that something were happening. They were handling the security perimeter right now. All she had to do were triggering it, and that should send out a warning to the powers that be, and get folks to move their rears.

So she'd do that, and trigger it. If nothing else, it might alert Amber about this, and if this were a sort of meeting, she'd have to be the one in front. That was her job. As were it to lead them in battle, if that were the sort of meeting they were about to have.

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Light)

On 2023-07-19 at 5:49 AM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

"........ Whats the psych evaluation again? Oh is it the time where i vomited? Or was it that time where a crimson changeling attacked me? How is she by the way?" He asked.

" How are the changeling colony? Is the queen okay? Or was she replaced?"

" So how'd i do? Do i get to get some water and food now?" He asked once more.

Amber continued to note down what Light said, her expression betraying nothing. "You'll be fed once all the guards have had their turn. We've got to take care of our own first after all."

 

On 2023-07-22 at 4:49 PM, Blitz Boom said:

So she'd do that, and trigger it. If nothing else, it might alert Amber about this, and if this were a sort of meeting, she'd have to be the one in front. That was her job. As were it to lead them in battle, if that were the sort of meeting they were about to have.

An audible alarm would sound throughout the camp, and Amber pressed a paw to her ear before turning to see the craft approaching. "We'll continue this later. Take some time to think about your past, see what else you can remember, since I'll have more questions when I get back."

With that she would bound over to where Maud and Last were standing.

 

(Brittle, Last and Maud)

When Last hit the alarm button on the perimeter post, it sounded an audible alarm, followed by a message in their headsets indicating that it was a manual alarm from the perimeter post where Last and Maud were standing, causing all the guards to look their way, and seeing that the two of them were looking up at the craft, the rest of the guards would look up to see it as well.

Amber signaled for a few pegasus and griffon guards to get up to try and intercept the craft, everyone with their weapons at the ready while she signaled another to head for the comms equipment to alert the Project, since the manual alarm would also signal the Project and the Project would declare the away team lost if they weren't notified in a timely manner.

 

(Last and Maud)

Amber would arrive shortly after Last triggered the alarm, "That's why you hit the alarm right? It's not coincidental to some other issue right?"

That confirmed she would give other orders, having all the guards prepare to deal with whatever was approaching as well as ordering the less combat capable creatures to get or remain inside the camp structures. Everyone watched to see how the craft would react to the interception attempt, and if it was not hostile the flying guards would direct it to land outside the perimeter of the camp.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

3 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @Kujamih

(Light)

Amber continued to note down what Light said, her expression betraying nothing. "You'll be fed once all the guards have had their turn. We've got to take care of our own first after all."

 

An audible alarm would sound throughout the camp, and Amber pressed a paw to her ear before turning to see the craft approaching. "We'll continue this later. Take some time to think about your past, see what else you can remember, since I'll have more questions when I get back."

With that she would bound over to where Maud and Last were standing.

 

(Brittle, Last and Maud)

When Last hit the alarm button on the perimeter post, it sounded an audible alarm, followed by a message in their headsets indicating that it was a manual alarm from the perimeter post where Last and Maud were standing, causing all the guards to look their way, and seeing that the two of them were looking up at the craft, the rest of the guards would look up to see it as well.

Amber signaled for a few pegasus and griffon guards to get up to try and intercept the craft, everyone with their weapons at the ready while she signaled another to head for the comms equipment to alert the Project, since the manual alarm would also signal the Project and the Project would declare the away team lost if they weren't notified in a timely manner.

 

(Last and Maud)

Amber would arrive shortly after Last triggered the alarm, "That's why you hit the alarm right? It's not coincidental to some other issue right?"

That confirmed she would give other orders, having all the guards prepare to deal with whatever was approaching as well as ordering the less combat capable creatures to get or remain inside the camp structures. Everyone watched to see how the craft would react to the interception attempt, and if it was not hostile the flying guards would direct it to land outside the perimeter of the camp.

" you know i was part of your group too.... and i can probably Help too....if youd let me, that is... Then again I'm still considered... An unknown... Which to be frank... You guys never new me from the get go.... Hmmm you've been tight with your security now huh...."

If he was left alone, then Light would ponder and check the room he was in and see if anything valuable or important he needs to take note of.

 

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

On 2023-07-25 at 1:08 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"That's why you hit the alarm right? It's not coincidental to some other issue right?"

"Nope. Figured this were worth your time."

Last seriously had no idea what to expect. A flying triangle, headed their way? What sorta messed up place had they gotten into? Whatever it were, she got one distinct feeling though: That this were not going to be a nice and pleasant visit. Because when were they ever gonna be that lucky?

On 2023-07-25 at 6:48 PM, Maud Pie said:

There were a pair of very tall locust-like creatures with heads similar to that of a Mantis. They both carried what looked like to be shotguns, but the shotguns were lowered. As the pair walked closer they could be seen more in detail. Dark black and dark green were the most common traits, with large folded translucent wings across their backs. They walked with an odd stagger. The pair were followed by four other ones, woh were taking up the rear behind them.

Last's muscles tenses, and her eyes narrowed as she saw what creatures emerged from the triangle. A low rung word, hissed through gnashed teeth escaping her.

"Manetids."

Where she had grown up, there had been plenty of dangerous creatures. Various monsters passing through, as well as the cursed forest, and whatever things it sent their way, whilst trying to harvest new bodies for itself. Yet nothing had been as dangerous, or as persistent, as the manetids. A race of mantis-like creatures, that from day 1, had assaulted the temple, under the leadership of their eternal queen. A towering behemoth of their kind, that at least when the Shrine maiden's had been dissolved, were still alive. Even if she had not been physically seen for at least three centuries.

Why she had been so wanting to send swarms after them? Who knew. The manetids obeyed, and didn't know her motives, but a few over the centuries had said enough to make it clear that it were at least in part, due to whatever they were protecting in the shrine's main chamber itself. Something whispering to her. Calling for her to come for it, and let nothing stand in her way.

Why she didn't come herself, were ever a mystery. She gave orders to her hivelings, and sent them, generation after generation, to try and claim her prize. Some speculated that it were because the early generations had done something, that made her unable to, or fearful of trying again. Back when they had magical, enchanted weaponry and armor. A supply that had dwindled over the years due to the magic fading, the items being destroyed in combat, or having been lost with the wearer, somewhere on the battlefield, or near the forest. If someone were dragged in there, there were no hope of retrieving them, or anything they possessed.

Personally, she assumed the queen didn't show, because she knew she would outlive them, and figured that she may as well send her offspring, and let the Shrine Maidens kill off the weak ones. The strong would return. The next generation would improve, and in time, not only would she get her prize, but her hive would be strong enough to look for their next target. Whatever that might be.

Either way, the Shrine Maidens kept up, and managed to keep the shrine safe for the thousand years they stood, even if it were at times close. And these creatures they were now facing... They were not the same, but they reminded her of them. These were a little taller, and darker. The ones she knew, were mostly light green and brown. The few colorful ones though, had always been a bad sign. They seemed more... Deranged somehow. Like a mad whisper guided them, and they rarely got taken down without casualties on their end.

These also looked less feral in nature, and their hands pairs were a little different. The manetids she knew, had two sets too, with one being used to hold weapons, and the other ending in large, razor-sharp scythes, that they were all too happy to clash with their blades.

A few other things stood out, but she couldn't help but compare these to those she knew. Even if those were in another world, potentially extinct - she hoped so at least - and didn't work with technology. Though she were rational about this. If she weren't, she'd currently be growling, weapon drawn, and getting ready to chop off some heads, rather than just look on with tense muscles, as her facial expression went back to being neutral. Though her eyes did look at them with suspicion. She did not trust these things.

On 2023-07-25 at 6:48 PM, Maud Pie said:

They would spot the guards and begin to walk towards them, and take no offensive action yet. They almost seemed to waddle, along with their staggering walk. They were mostly around three times the height of a normal pony, and far stronger physically. On their backs seemed to be various glowing orbs that seemed to strobe in random patterns of yellow and dark red. At least one of them had silver mandibles, what that meant, was unknown. 

She couldn't say what the point of the orbs were, but she were guessing some sort of magic, or technology that might as well be equivalent to magic. Big sorts too. She were used to bugs like this being twice her size. Not three times. Still, she could take them. They seemed to share enough physiology with the ones she knew, to give her some minor idea of their weak spots. Though she'd have to consider intellect a factor here too, if it came to that.

Still, they were not attacking, so she wouldn't do a thing. Not yet anyway. For now, this were Amber's problem. It would become theirs, if these things tried anything funny.

Meanwhile, when Brittle heard the alarm, she had a slight panic rush, and ended up randomly transforming her wings into large, whole wheat break slices. She'd correct that mistake once she realized what she had done, returning to *normal*, though she'd remain alert, and now worried. This couldn't be good.

There were also no way that she were going outside to check anything, until Amber cleared that it were safe for the support staff to join in. She might be going down here to try and be part of the outside a bit on her own hooves. Didn't mean she'd toss herself into danger out of nowhere.

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-07-24 at 8:37 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

If he was left alone, then Light would ponder and check the room he was in and see if anything valuable or important he needs to take note of.

Light was left with a pair of guards, but their attention was towards the incoming threat, giving him a bit more freedom than before. He wasn't in a room, just sitting near the edge of the camp, it seemed like they didn't really mind if he tried to run away.

 

@Blitz Boom @Props Valroa

Once it was clear that the craft wasn't responding to their attempts to redirect it, the flying guards returned to the camp. Once the craft had landed Amber spoke into her mic, "Shields up." And a moment later the entire camp was encased in a magical shield dome extending to the pillars that they had previously set up.

Assuming that didn't dissuade the creatures from approaching she'd continue, "I need a telepath here." A unicorn guard would approach, and Amber would nod, "Try to get a read on them." She'd speak into her mic again as the unicorn got closer to the shield before trying to reach out to the creatures telepathically, "I've got a potential hostile entity here... yeah that's the one. Get the guns ready, we might need a show of force."

 

The unicorn who was sent to communicate would try and send the message: "Cease your approach and state your business."

[Blitz Boom 4,612]

@Illiad Easle @Props Valroa @Kujamih

Since she couldn't hear, feel, or even smell anything odd going on here, Last couldn't do much else, then just stand around, look tough, and wait for something to happen. No one had tried to cut off a head yet though, so so far, so relatively good? The unicorn would probably have to deal with this whole thing for a bit, before the rest of them could really start to know what to do about this.

...Shame she hadn't gotten lunch first, before all of this went on though. Hopefully no one had raided the food or something, while this whole thing were going on. She had doubts they would though. Seemed a dumb thing to focus on in a potential crisis. Especially since the they should be either protecting the support staff, or be out here, ready to fight.

They'd see if they actually needed to fight, but the way these creatures looked, she doubted they'd get through this without drawing blades. Though of course, she did have some personal bias in this case, clouding her imagination on how this might go.