private The Æther Project

[Jack Baker 698]

@Califorum @Illiad Easle

As soon as I heard the voices, I immediately went on high alert. I moved slowly towards a part of the doorway where I figured I wouldn't be seen, an ear towards the voices on the other side. It sounded like they were the ones that brought the spawn in. Clever for a bunch of raiders, if true. They were also talking about riches. Could they also be after the Minostralium? Or something else entirely? I kept listening. Maybe I could get something a little extra out of this trip.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Califorum

Having successfully avoided the attention of those around her, Trixie would be able to continue unmolested by the residents of the project, and as such was free to explore wherever she'd like. Having already seen the cafeteria, she could look for the library she overheard the old stallion tell the plant pony about, she could look into the other entertainment options he mentioned as well. Or she could explore via the maps that were posted every so often, go somewhere like the farming area, the research division, records, recreation, or just go wandering trying to find something in particular.

 

@Courageous Thunder Dash

While the Quartermaster was surprised by his takeoff method, the General did not appear phased by it. The trio he was sent after didn't react to his presence until he shot out the light trail that disrupted their flight pattern, they quickly formed up in a defensive stance, turning their attention to Thundy, "What the heck was that crap?" "Ooo yeah, you're real scary." They didn't look happy at being interrupted, and seemed ready to fight.

 

@Blitz Boom @Windy Breeze

Plein pointed to Gypsum, the diamond dog, who was standing in line with them, "Well, that's Gypsum there,"

Gypsum waved, "Yeah, I work with Silver Lining, she's a psychiatrist who specializes in mental trauma, she's really good at helping creatures overcome their traumas, helped me get stabilized after I got here... I was the only one of my family to survive, and it was really hard for me to keep moving after that."

In response to Serene's question on hydroponics she turned to address it, "One thing with ponies is that they often have the same names. Plein's mother is Silver Easle, she works in maintenance since she designed almost everything in the underside of the Project. Silver Lining is a different mare who works with creatures to get in a better place mentally, which is where I want to work too."

 

With that they would get to the front of their lines to get their food, which looked like typical foods one could expect from a buffet, a wide selection of decent quality staple foods along with the occasional specialty dish. Plein skipped over most of the more healthy foods to where they kept the sweeter foods, one of the workers stepping in to block her before she could get some for herself, "Plein, you know you're not allowed to be here by yourself."

She nodded, "And I'm not alone! This is Shadow, she's here with me, to be responsible and all that," she'd look back at Shadow, "Right?"

 

Once they had all gotten their food, Wildebeast would have saved some seats for them to all sit together if they wanted to, but they were free to go their separate ways if they liked.

 

@Kujamih

Dr. Coxa took down some more notes as Light spoke, "Hmm, we'll definitely need to run some tests on that, see if what you're saying is true and all. It sounds like some sort of stabilized version of anti-magic like what we've been making. But maybe more like an antithesis to minostralium? Interesting."

She nodded to herself before turning her attention back to Light, "I won't prescribe you any medications just yet, I'd like to just keep you under observation for now. Is there anything you need before I leave? You should try to get some rest, that should help you start to recover, I know you've been through a lot over the past several months down there."

 

@Califorum @Jack Baker

The voices didn't seem to have noticed them just yet, as they drew closer to the open door they'd be able to catch a glimpse into the cave outside, the flickering light of a fire showed that some sort of camp was set up further down the cave, the wind indicating that it eventually led back to the surface, there were about five ponies around the fire, given the number of tents there were, or at least used to be, several more, maybe up to a dozen in total, as well as what looked like a dozen or two sleeping spawn scattered around the cave. A large pile of spawn corpses had been pushed to one side, and a few dismantled golems sat in another pile, the runes rather crudely cut out of them, likely for the trace amounts of minostralium they contained.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy flew in a little closer to the group, seeing them go into a defensive position. Because Thundy flew in closer, the light trail came closer. No harm would happen if one of the pegasi touched the trail. They would just be lightly bounced back. Thundy pulled a loop on top of the group to cut off an upper escape path. It seemed as if Thundy was making some sort of shape with his light trail around the group...

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

After eating, Trixie got up from the table and would exit through the hallways. Believing that any possible pursuers had lost sight of her she began to form a plan in her head. In her mind, she was free to roam wherever she wanted and had come up with the idea of eventually exploring each different area of the ship as possible. If not to get a feel of things, then it would be to get an idea of where everything was so she could hide in any spots just in case she was being pursued. Without her iconic cape and hat on, she believed that ponies would miss sight of her since they had never seen her cutie mark. She began to look for that library the old stallion spoke of. She remembered Twilight. The bookhorse. The element of magic. She remembered her duel with her among other things in the past. Those were the days.

@Jack Baker @Illiad Easle

Upon seeing the scene, a thought crossed Maud's mind. It was Discord's loyalists, or raiders. She looked to Raze, and would whisper quietly to him. "Loyalists of Discord. We must head back, and tell the others of this. We cannot take a group of ponies on, plus several spawn. It is illogical and dangerous to do so." she said with a perfectly monotone and logical voice. She began heading back., instructing Raze to do the same. She didn't want to call attention to herself, knowing how outnumbered they would be if they were noticed.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

" your company is fine enough for what i need." Light said while looking at her eyes trying to dazzle her. " Anyway you guys should stop making an anti magic and start finding one.... Too bad mother is dead... Maybe the other changelings knows about Chrysalis's throne?.... Im sure theres lots of materials like that hidden away somewhere." 

Edited April 16, 2021 by Kujamih

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

“Nice to meet you, Gypsum. I'm Shadow trail” Serene would only give Shadow a smile as he thought about the information he got from Gypsum about the two silvers: Silver Easle, the mother of Plein who was drowned by her sorrows for loosing a love one and working in a farm-related job, and Silver Lining, a different mare works as a psychiatrist who has helped Gypsum in fighting her own trauma and was succesful. If Lining were to meet Mrs. Eagle, she can help her overcome her mental illness and will be able to take care of Plein for the least.

As it was Shadow and Plein's turn, Shadow had taken several healthy foods bedore she was interrupted by Plein's age and food problems.

On 2021-04-16 at 12:26 PM, Illiad Easle said:

With that they would get to the front of their lines to get their food, which looked like typical foods one could expect from a buffet, a wide selection of decent quality staple foods along with the occasional specialty dish. Plein skipped over most of the more healthy foods to where they kept the sweeter foods, one of the workers stepping in to block her before she could get some for herself, "Plein, you know you're not allowed to be here by yourself."

She nodded, "And I'm not alone! This is Shadow, she's here with me, to be responsible and all that," she'd look back at Shadow, "Right?"

Shadow would smile politely to the worker “I'm with the filly” she told the worker.

When it Serene and Gypsum later got to get their own buffet, they sat on the table Wildebeest provided them “Thanks, Mr. Uh.... Wildebeest” Serene said.

[Jack Baker 698]

@Illiad Easle @Califorum

Leave? I shook my head at the thought.

"Do you have any idea who you're talking to?" I asked her while slightly peeking my head through the door. I saw five of them, though the setup of their camp seemed like there were more, with a few sleeping spawn off to the side. Nothing I hadn't dealt with before. I looked back at Maud.

"Go back if you want. I'll deal with 'em." I slowly crept past the door, trying to stick to the shadows so as to not be spotted. Figured I'd try and thin the herd a bit first through more stealthy means, and if I got caught, send Thanatos out to quickly deal with them.

Before, I probably would've backed out against these odds, but with Than at my side, I had a fair, fighting chance. For the short while after we made our pact, we've taken out huge groups of enemies together: spawn, loyalists, you name it. Not entire armies, mind you, but definitely more than five loyalists and a dozen spawn. This was child's play. I kept slowly sneaking my way around the camp, observing their movements, waiting for an opportunity to strike.

[Starforce 25]

@Jack Baker @Illiad Easle

Since Raze didn't leave, Maud would stay with him. "Hmm. You drive an interesting idea. How about you go in there and try to take them down, and I will strike suddenly as you are distracting them?" Maud would ask, knowing that she had extreme strength but no real magical ability to speak of. She was planning on causing a rock collapse over the sleeping spawn, since she knew how to do such things she could do collapses over specific portions of the area there with no affecting the other areas.

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Windy Breeze

On 2021-04-13 at 2:50 AM, Windy Breeze said:

Unsurprisingly, it was Serene who spoke first. Shadow was bad at giving advice since she grew in a family who praised a villain, “Depressed ponies should take time to talk with a lot of ponies and have fun with them” Serene chimed in, “I'm not saying she has to stop working, what I'm saying is she has enjoy all the stuff she did in the past”

"You should listen to her advice, Shadow. It is something I wholeheartedly agree with, even if I also am aware that depression are not that simple, and it will not work for all. Still, I do believe that reaching out such as this, will help for most, in one form or another. It is not good to hold everything on your own shoulders after all. Better to find someone you can speak with, and ease the burden.

Ah, but I suppose I am moving into conversation I do not have much place to be in. My apologies if I overstepped my boundaries, miss."

He were not entirely sure who this other pony were, but she gave some good advice, even if depression - as far as he knew - did sometimes also require medication, and quite often, professionals. It were a complex matter, which he would not insult those suffering from it by claiming he understood it. He had been in dark moods before, but he did not think it as severe as what he heard others speak of. He after all, always had hope in some fashion to go with, and cling to. It were sadly not the case with everyone.

On 2021-04-16 at 6:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Well, that's Gypsum there,"

Gypsum waved, "Yeah, I work with Silver Lining, she's a psychiatrist who specializes in mental trauma, she's really good at helping creatures overcome their traumas, helped me get stabilized after I got here... I was the only one of my family to survive, and it was really hard for me to keep moving after that."

Briar would give a gentlecolt bow towards Gypsum, which he considered personally, to be how you greeted others with respect.

"Nature's blessings upon you, Gypsum. And know that you have my deepest sympathy for your tragic loss. I cannot imagine what it must have been like for you, though it warms my heart to hear that you got help to keep going."

Sure he had been a slave, and exiled from his home, but he didn't know what it was like to lose family. His parents had thrown him away when he emerged from the seed, and they saw what he were, so he never knew who they were. The others in the pit were kind of siblings, he supposed, but they were not close. Only physically, when hovelling together at the few spots of light, to get even the slightest sliver down in the darkness, before eventually getting pulled up to serve. The closest he came were the stallion who helped him, once he wandered out of the jungle, yet he had been old, and prepared Briar for his inevitable death. It did not hurt as much as what Gypsum's experience must have.

"When time comes, I shall endeavor to visit, but we will need time first. Brittle have sadly known nothing but cruelty in her life, before I found her, so she does not have an easy time attempting trust. I give you my word that we will keep you in mind though, once she feels ready for it."

Gypsum could likely tell, as Brittle looked around on the gathered ponies, whimpering slightly if one got too close, with her head held closely to the ground. She looked as if she were expecting to be whipped any second right now.

Oddly enough though, she looked the least fearful towards her. The ponies got most of her fear, changelings next, and then a few glances towards others. Gypsum were still someone she were afraid of, but it seemed like she had more to worry about with the ponies, which were maybe kinda odd, since a diamond dog in general, looked more dangerous.

On 2021-04-16 at 6:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

In response to Serene's question on hydroponics she turned to address it, "One thing with ponies is that they often have the same names. Plein's mother is Silver Easle, she works in maintenance since she designed almost everything in the underside of the Project. Silver Lining is a different mare who works with creatures to get in a better place mentally, which is where I want to work too."

"Excuse me, are you saying that Silver Easle are the one responsible for quite a bit of the creation of this place? My, your mother is quite impressive, Plein. It would be an honor to one day meet her."

This were astounding. Surely it took a lot to design a place like this, but that one pony had been the one to handle the majority of the ground work? That were quite impressive. Certainly a pony worth meeting in due time, and then thank for her contribution to their safety. She may not be the only one responsible, but she were the only one he so far knew of the creators. He'd give his gratitude towards the others, when he got to learn about them.

The talk would essentially end there, or shortly thereafter anyway, and they would wander off to get their food. Briar would require two trips, if things were truly split up between the varied sections of food, as Briar wanted a salad, and Brittle were to get some emotion food. Whatever were on offer, she'd take. She'd even slightly open her muzzle, as if she were about to say thank you, but then crumbled down and looked away when no words escaped her muzzle. Small steps.

On 2021-04-16 at 6:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Once they had all gotten their food, Wildebeast would have saved some seats for them to all sit together if they wanted to, but they were free to go their separate ways if they liked.

The two of them would gladly come over, even if Briar would insist that Brittle please be given the seat with least chance of others touching her. Near a wall if the table had one, and if not, then one on the edge of the bench, with Briar wrapping a vine around her, to both keep her safe, and to to poke those away who seemed to get too close, with the flower bud at the end of the vine.

"What a lovely gathering of friendly beings we have gotten ourselves here, for this joyous feast. I believe the correct thing here would be to then talk about what we have done today, yes? Brittle and I have wandered the potato fields with Wilderbeast, and between assuring him that I am not interested in being planted, not rose from the dirt to exact vengeance for my plucked kin, we managed to get quite a lot done. It is simple, yet pleasing work, I must say.

How have your day proceeded then, if I may ask?"

[Jack Baker 698]

@Monotonality

I nodded at her idea. "Now you're speaking my language," I said, while continuing to sneak ahead. They hadn't noticed me yet. Good...

I slowly picked up a small rock, and threw it a short distance away from me, hoping the sound would send someone to investigate. I slinked back even more into the dark shadows of the cave, and began to wait.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Courageous Thunder Dash

The pegasi noticed that Thundy was trying to box them in, and would break formation, each one going a different direction to attempt to escape the box Thundy was trying to build around them. As fast as Thundy was, these pegasi were just as fast, if not faster. And no small amount of nimble, able to change directions on a dime.

Two of them were able to escape easily enough, the third getting bounced around by the walls.

The escaped ones weren't going to let Thundy just take their comrade, and would start to get physical, going for disrupting strikes on his wing joints.

 

@Monotonality

The library, according to the map, was one floor under the entertainment district that she had just been in, and itself spanned several floors, each floor seemingly dedicated to a different subject matter, the top floor being dedicated to fiction, and the deeper floors being dedicated to more and more advanced concepts. By the size of it it would take several decades to read everything contained within.

Each floor had a reception area that served as the dedicated entrance/exit for the floor, such that you couldn't get into or out of the library without passing by at least one of the receptionists.

If/when Trixie went to enter the library the receptionist would wave to her, "Our scan says you've never been here before, would you like a tour? Maybe just a rundown of our facilities?"

 

@Kujamih

Dr. Coxa simply sighed and shook her head at Light's attempt to dazzle her, "Figures he's got some sort of fetish." Nonetheless she started to back out of the room, "You get some rest now, I'll see if Queen Permu is willing to speak with you. Someone should come by later with some food for you. Do you have any special dietary restrictions we should know about?"

So long as light didn't act too strangely, Coxa would leave the room and close the door in front of her. An hour or so later some food would be teleported into the room, fairly normal unless he had indicated a dietary restriction, if so it would be according to the restriction.

 

@Windy Breeze 

The worker simply sighed and stepped aside, allowing Plein to continue as he shook his head. "She's a smart little filly that one, got to get more specific rules or she'll keep convincing adults to let her eat whatever she wants. Try and get her to eat at least something healthy would you?"

Plein would happily go over to Wildebeest's table with Gypsum and the others.

 

@Windy Breeze @Blitz Boom

When Briar started talking about her mother, Plein grew a bit uncomfortable, "Yeah, I've heard she's real great, she and my father both. At least he has the excuse of being dead to not be around." 

It seemed there was a bit of resentment between Plein and her mother, at least when her mother was praised.

When asked about her day though she perked back up, "Well, I had some school today, nothing too interesting, then I met Shadow there and here we are."

Gypsum also answered, "I spent the first half of my day helping get the new intakes get situated, mostly getting the small families find proper lodging, get the younger ones in their classes, that sort of thing. Then I met up with Serene there and brought him here with me."

 

@Monotonality @Jack Baker

Approaching would be difficult, given the number of corpses and scattered sleeping spawn strewn about the cavern, but they would manage to get a good distance in before Raze threw the rock.

When the rock hit the far end of the cavern a number of the spawn nearby stirred to wakefulness, turning their attention towards the sound. Thankfully none of the ones behind them woke up or they'd be spotted for sure.

Despite not being initially spotted, they weren't so luck when the spawn started sniffing, which got the attention of the loyalists, "Something's in the cave with us. Watch out."

They would need to act fast if they wanted to preserve the element of surprise.

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

Trixie proceeds to enter in the library through the closest entrance. She was instantly awed at how big it was, it had several floors. It was not the size or scale she expected. She took a whiff of that crisp booky atmosphere. It made her smirk slyly. She had heard the receptionist call out to her and she turns to them, "Oh, Trixie would love a tour or something of that nature! Show Trixie around!" she spoke rather happily. She laughed mentally at how the receptionist is so nice and kind to her. Trixie was quite pleased. The happiness from such things was enough to distract herself from the deeds she had just done. She felt a tinge of guilt but, the Great and Powerful Trixie is always right, isn't she? 

@Jack Baker @Illiad Easle

Maud would stay extremely silent and close. She would watch, and wait as Raze would do what he was about to do. She wasn't going to be the one to make a first move. It would be up to Raze for that. She felt that they were making a big mistake here. But they were already too far in. Deep down, she felt afraid. No, she felt angry at Raze for being so willing to go through with this but her face conveyed the same expression it always did.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

"I' m okay eating anything to be honest....so any food you can give is fine thank you.... how bout you? What's your dietary preference?"

Light tried to ask Coxa.

"Ahmmm i mean if you don't mind me asking that is..."

Edited April 26, 2021 by Kujamih

[Thundy]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy noticed two of the pegasai had managed to escape. He saw them going for his wing joints, and dodged them. He made a bubble appear around himself, that was only temporary. He saw that the two pegasai were going for spermatic attacks. Therefore, he created the trail that disrupted with a flight path he remembered them taking, watching out for the other Pegasus he still had in his trail. 

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Illiad Easle @Windy Breeze

On 2021-04-26 at 5:22 AM, Illiad Easle said:

When Briar started talking about her mother, Plein grew a bit uncomfortable, "Yeah, I've heard she's real great, she and my father both. At least he has the excuse of being dead to not be around."

"I did not know that was the case. I apologize profoundly for bringing it up, and I shall endeavor to not do so again in your presence."

Briar did not wish to step into touching matters, and it seemed he had accidentally done so, when bringing up praise for what sounded like an absent mother. Having not known a mothers love either, he could say that there were certainly some degree of sympathy that he could offer, build on experience, but it seemed tactless. Especially as their situations were not entirely the same. He for one, had never known who his mother were, as per tradition, he had been rejected once it were shown that he had been a mutation. A tradition he would chose to destroy as the first, once his kin had the chance to grow once more.

On 2021-04-26 at 5:22 AM, Illiad Easle said:

When asked about her day though she perked back up, "Well, I had some school today, nothing too interesting, then I met Shadow there and here we are."

Gypsum also answered, "I spent the first half of my day helping get the new intakes get situated, mostly getting the small families find proper lodging, get the younger ones in their classes, that sort of thing. Then I met up with Serene there and brought him here with me."

Thankfully they were soon on to more peaceful, happy things, that felt like it were cheering Plein up. Most beings had certain smells that one could judge mood from, but ponies also tended to have two other tells he used often. That being tone of voice, and their ears. The tone were the most obvious, as most of them were not good at hiding their emotional state, whilst speaking. The ears though, were something of a more subtle thing, but useful, as they did tend to convey a good deal. Such as slacking ones, tending to be a sign that the pony were feeling down, and perked up high, while the stature followed troop, tended to mean that they had gotten excited about something.

They were a fun species to examine, and live amongst, in his opinion. Earth Mother be praised too, that he had only met extremely few of them who had an interest in harvesting him, which did make him think overall better of them. It worked against the old stories than even his variant of Evergrown were told at times. Mostly by the guards of the pit, that were using it before speaking of how if they ever went to the ponies again, Snaproots like him, were going to be offered to them on a large plate, with a knife next to it.

"Sounds like a lovely, calm day. One can never have too many of them. Especially considering the alternative.

And Gypsum, I am impressed with the amount of work you have done in this short amount of time. Dealing with distraught families cannot have been easy, and yet it sounds as if you have carried yourself skillfully through this, and helped those who needed it. It is a great pleasure to meet one who helps keep the wheels turning in this society."

Perhaps he were doling out compliments a little too often for some's liking, but Briar had been taught by the elderly pony that took hi under his wing, that one should always approach others with kindness, respect, and compliments. Were he to make it in the unfamiliar world he'd end up wandering for years after, he needed to keep that in mind, to be easier accepted by others who might at first think him a pony, but would have varied reactions once they noted he were not. Being open and approachable would give him a better chance with others he had claimed, and overall, Briar agreed. Sure some were still not kind, but that were not something which he could do anything about. Some simply were like that, and Briar had accepted that.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Monotonality

The receptionist nodded, "I'd be happy to." She was a bookish mare, glasses, mane in a neat braid, young, but otherwise unremarkable. She came out from behind the desk, an enchanted gem rising to take her place. "Alright, well this is the first level, where we keep the more basic and fiction books. This way all the foals stay up here, and never get too close to the valuable or dangerous books kept in the lower levels of the archives. Anything you need for a gradeschool project or a relaxing afternoon you can find here."

As she talked she walked, showing off the rows of short and tall bookshelves, as well as a number of reading areas both for foals and adults.

She led the way past another receptionist to get to the stairs down a level. "This second level is the buffer, to be extra sure no one who isn't supposed to gets into the valuable or dangerous books. Here's where you can check out a private study room to read in peace or teach yourself something. We also occasionally hold classes and workshops here in case you want to learn something new."

Reaching another receptionist and staircase they entered another floor of books and bookcases, this one much more akin to the feeling of a college library. The air had quite the smell of books to it. "Here is where the more advanced books are kept, everything you'd need for academic research, as well as a few more private study rooms, though they're almost always claimed by the researchers as this level also connects to the research area of the project. Down below we keep the valuable and dangerous tomes. We don't let anyone go down there by themselves, but the books are by no means forbidden. You just need to request them and someone will go get them for you, or accompany you down."

 

(Jack didn't do anything)

It looked like Raze had frozen in the moment, the spawn would soon be upon them, and the loyalists behind them, if they didn't act fast and decisively. 

 

@Kujamih

Dr. Coxa snorted at Light's question, "Seriously? You said you knew changelings, and ask what I eat? I mean, I can eat anything, but I am primarily an emotivore just like all other changelings. I get most of my nutrients from emotion gel like all the others."

She shook her head as she left the room, chuckling to herself, "Doesn't know what a changeling eats..."

 

Provided Light behaved himself, and got some rest, he'd be woken several hours later to Dr. Coxa entering the room again, "Alright, we didn't notice anything odd during observation, so if you promise not to have any more outbursts we're willing to let you go." She smiled at the end, "Also, I mentioned some of the things you said to Queen Permu, and she wants to meet with you immediately. She assured me she'd take care of getting you integrated to the project and all that. If you want to follow me then?"

Dr. Coxa would lead the way out of the medical area and even lower in the ship to the pipeworks levels. Near the center of the ship they entered a chamber that on the inside resembled a changeling throne room, a tired looking amber colored changeling queen sat on the throne, she looked intrigued when Light and Coxa entered, "Is this the curious stallion we've heard so much about? We'd like to speak with him privately."

The guards looked surprised, but left the room with Dr. Coxa. Queen Permu relaxed on the throne once they had left, "Tell me, what do you know of my estranged niece? I'm told you know her rather personally."

 

@Courageous Thunder Dash

"Enough." The General called out, and the two attacking pegasi broke off their attack, returning to the deck to present themselves to the General.

Once Thundy landed and released the captured pegasi the General would speak, "Impressive, most impressive how boring that display was. Still, you proved resourceful, and I'm sure you would have acted far more decisively and effectively had you a target you were allowed to harm or kill."

He pointed off the ship, where a few flying spawn were starting to approach the project. "Why don't you prove my suspicions correct? Take them down."

 

@Blitz Boom

On 2021-04-29 at 6:01 PM, Blitz Boom said:

Dealing with distraught families cannot have been easy, and yet it sounds as if you have carried yourself skillfully through this, and helped those who needed it. It is a great pleasure to meet one who helps keep the wheels turning in this society."

Gypsum simply blushed and waved him off, "I'm nothing special, I'm only just starting to help. Miss Lining is the real hero, she's been doing this since the project first launched."

(I had hoped for more interaction with Windy, but they didn't do anything.)

Wildebeast and the others were content to eat in silence, once finished he stood from the table and stretched, "Well, it's time for this old stallion to get some rest. I'll see you in the morning Taters and Brittle. You two get some rest and relaxation."

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

It clicked.

It clicked within Trixie's mind what she wanted to do while she was here. She wanted to read those forbidden books. But knowing a pony of her stature, she didn't want to merely read books. She wanted to have a power over them. Maybe to spite Twilight, who was the bookworm of them all. Realizing Trixie's rising ambition, Spiral took control over her body and voice. She didn't want Trixie's stage persona interfering with such a delicate and opportunistic situation. "This is all very interesting to me. Now, if I may enquire on the most advanced books and the ones you say valuable, possibly dangerous. I would like to read them. But I also have a proposition to you." Spiral began with a whiff of the atmosphere of the second level. It was quite interesting to her.

"Seeing as this vessel is for all intents of purposes letting ponies onboard. Some of them could be dangerous, or worse, even spies. You need those valuable ones on the third level to be guarded. Watched over. Protected. I wish to divulge in their contents but I also propose something as well. I could be a member of the guard, wear the badge and armour. I could watch over and protect the contents of said books from possibly dangerous influences. While watching over them, I can read them. Win win for all involved. I get to learn of their contents, while these books are kept under watchful eye." Spiral grinned somewhat.

"So, what do you say?"

@Jack Baker @Illiad Easle

There was no time for caution. Maud quickly pulled Raze back, and without a word her eyes instantly darted at the cave (or area) they were in. She looked for a weak spot. There was a crack in the wall. But she had to distract the spawn. Picking up a large boulder in her hooves. She threw it in the air and spun around. With her back hooves she kicked it in a powerful motion. Right at one of the loyalists. If that loyalist didn't act quick, he/she would end up having a boulder blowing at them in high speed.

That was the distraction. She threw Raze back towards the exit. He would have landed where they had entered. It was harsh, but there was no time to explain. She picked up another boulder and did a similar motion as before, this time it was directed at the ceiling. The boulder exploded on contact with the ceiling leaving those below pelted by a now caving in ceiling. The ceiling fractured, splintering. It started to rain dust, boulders and debris down on the spawn and their loyalist allies. 

If they didn't act fast enough, they would end up getting crushed or trapped in this area. Maud ran towards the exit, avoiding falling debris. She had a plan in mind, and this wasn't it. Depending on what happened next, would determine if such a plan could be continued. Perhaps she could dig through the rubble afterwards, capture one of the loyalists and bring them back to the ship and have them questioned for their plans.

Edited May 3, 2021 by Monotonality

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

“I got it” Shadow said before leaving the line and going to the seat Wildebeest provided them. She would make sure she would thank him later.

* * *

Both Serene and Shadow decided to listen as they eat their own meal. Both of them would smile upon being mentioned in Plein and Gypsum's conversations. Serene would however notice Plein's strange choice of food.

“Why didn't you get some vegetables?” he was bothered that by the presence of so many sweets and absence of any vegetables in Plein's plate. Shadow would turn to look at him but did not interfere.

[Courageous Thunder Dash 7,824]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy listened to the general's comments. He wasn't offended, as he had thick skin. Once the general commanded him to take out some spawn, Thundy was on it. He gathered some electricity and made his talons spak as he leaped into the air.  

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

Light would continue to give small talk with Coxa as she visits him for check ups and guiding him to Queen Permu.

" How would I know that you still eat emotions like an old changeling would?"

" You know some changelings don't eat emotions but share them? They actually don't get hungry anymore."

" So what's your favorite emotion then?"

The chat would go on until they've entered the Queens Chamber.

As they enter, Light's eyes are in a state of observation. You can see in his eyes that he is studying, observing what he is looking at.

As the guards left the room the queen spoke and asked about Queen Chrysalis.

" Sorry... I can't tell. She's dead here, in this dimension I mean. But if you are talking about the Chrysalis in my Dimension.... She was a great mother to me. But one things for sure... All Chrysalis has one similar past at some point... And I'm sure the Chrysalis here is just misunderstood and astray...I guess that's what her roll in life I suppose in every dimension."

Light looked around her throne and continued to ask.

" You look quite tired my Queen. I'm guessing the atmosphere in this place is not helping with your health? Have you not chosen an new heir yet?"

Judging by the location and structure that Coxa brought Light to.

The place where the Queens throne is, is near the center of the base and is filled with tubes and pipes, which usually is either humid, hot or cold in this places.

" Or maybe somewhere fit for a Queen to reside. This feels quite disrespectful for the Queen... I'm sure some changelings are not pleased by this aswell... The changelings sure is divided right now... I think some are trying to revolt or something. I meet a changeling that impersonated Coxa... Boy was her screws loose." 

 

 

 

 

Edited May 3, 2021 by Kujamih

[Blitz Boom 4,626]

@Windy Breeze @Illiad Easle

On 2021-05-03 at 5:43 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Gypsum simply blushed and waved him off, "I'm nothing special, I'm only just starting to help. Miss Lining is the real hero, she's been doing this since the project first launched."

"You should not sell yourself short like that. Perhaps they hold a heavier weight on the scale, yet that does not diminish your contribution."

Miss Lining might be the one to have done this since the project started, but Gypsum were doing it now, and being effective in helping others move things along. Perhaps not as extensively, or in as high of a position as Lining, but no great system could stand, it if relied on just one, single being for a particular task. Not ones of this size and scale, certainly. There needed to be more willing to do that, and help keep the process going, so that they could help each other getting their task done. If one got sick, or Earth Mother forbid, died, there would be some there that could take up that mantle for a time, or permanently, and things could move along.

They'd be able to enjoy their dinner in rather nice, peace and quiet, with Briar slowly chomping down his salad, and Brittle cautiously sucking up the jelly. 

On 2021-05-03 at 5:43 AM, Illiad Easle said:

"Well, it's time for this old stallion to get some rest. I'll see you in the morning Taters and Brittle. You two get some rest and relaxation."

"In due time friend. Earth Mother watch over you."

He'd give his farewells, and be about to wander off as well after that. Shadow and the rest would too get his farewells afterwards, but there were work yet to be done, and he wished to get on with it. Besides, it seemed as if they were talking amongst themselves now, and did not need them, so he'd treat Brittle to the peace and quiet of a less populated potato field.

Unless of course, they wished to include him in something before they wandered off. In which case, he would stay for a time more, though if not, they would be on their way within five minutes or so, and would return to work some more, until he could feel that Brittle wished for a nice, dark, quiet space. He'd almost get to the thousand potatoes, b8ut he had to accept around 863, if he had counted correctly, as he did not want to put pressure on Brittle, when she were not in a state to handle that. So they would wander back to their room, and she'd lay down in the corner bed, whilst he placed himself as best he could, to be between her, and the door. It made her feel safer when she knew he were between whatever might come in, and her, and he wished to do anything he could, to soothe her mind. Earth Mother be willing, she'd soon enough be in a state where she had the courage to speak once more, even if only to him.

[Jack Baker 698]

@Illiad Easle @Monotonality

((Very sorry about the wait, been very busy irl.))

Before I was able to commit to my plan, Maud had already put her distraction into play, launching a boulder at one of the loyalists. After she threw me back unexpectedly, I managed to land a bit of a ways off from the exit. I felt something shift above me, Looking up, a large chunk of rock from the cave ceiling had gotten loose and was rapidly approaching me. I didn't have enough time to dodge it, so I did the only thing I could do...

I put my left hoof to my mouth and whistled.

As I did, Thanatos manifested himself right in front of me in a flash of blue light.

With one quick motion, he simultaneously drew his sword and sliced the rock clean in two. With his other hand, he reached out. I jumped and grabbed it, and he flung me lightly across the distance to the exit before anymore rocks or debris could come falling on me. He then disappeared in another flash. I landed on my hooves, and began to slowly make my way towards where Maud had gone.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Monotonality

The receptionist seemed surprised by Trixie's offer, "Really? You didn't exactly strike me as the guard type, but looks can be deceiving after all. Of course, even if you were accepted to be a guard you'll of course understand that we can't put you in charge of the restricted section immediately. However..." She looked thoughtful as she led the way back up to where the tour started, "If you really are devoted to such a task, there's no reason why you couldn't work your way up to that position in a month or so. To be honest we've had issues staffing that section, which is part of why we don't let just anyone down there, we don't have enough security to monitor regular guests." She shuffled through some of the papers under the desk, before looking one over. "Why don't you come back here tomorrow, just after breakfast, then you can meet with the head of security and she'll see if you're cut out for it, put you through your paces so to speak. I'll even put in a good word for you. Sound good?"

 

@Windy Breeze

Plein would roll her eyes at Serene's comments on her food, "You sound just like Mr. Write. Yeah, I know, I should eat healthy foods so I can be big and strong like my parents. Well, sometimes I just don't feel like it alright? Besides," She sighed, poking at her food, "I promised my mom I'd eat healthy for every meal she ate with me, and she's not here right now is she?"

She sighed and paused again, "My mom isn't that bad, really, I know she loves me more than anything else. It's just my parents' anniversary this week, so she's more distant than usual. She should be back to normal next week."

 

@Courageous Thunder Dash

The spawn were still a good distance out from the project, and not in a large enough number so as to be a danger to himself. They didn't waste any time however changing course to attack him directly once he got close enough.

He might also notice that once he got a certain distance away from the project, he wouldn't be able to see it visually. Being magically attuned he'd notice that there was a subtle cloaking field a certain distance out from the ship, making it indistinguishable from the surrounding clouds.

(Feel free to take out the spawn in whatever manner you see fit.)

 

@Kujamih

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" How would I know that you still eat emotions like an old changeling would?"

"I look like an old changeling don't I?"

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" You know some changelings don't eat emotions but share them? They actually don't get hungry anymore."

Coxa rolled her eyes at that, "No actually, I don't know a single changeling that doesn't need emotional energy to sustain their magical physiology. I assume you're referring to my cousin Thorax and his ilk? They still eat emotional energy, they're just more open about their cultivation efforts than the rest of us are."

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" So what's your favorite emotion then?"

Coxa snorted, "Queen Chrysalis was my mother, so Love is my preferred emotion. Only changelings from my hive can eat large quantities of it without getting sick. To the others eating too much love is like eating too much sugar is to you ponies."

 

In the throne room:

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" Sorry... I can't tell. She's dead here, in this dimension I mean. But if you are talking about the Chrysalis in my Dimension.... She was a great mother to me. But one things for sure... All Chrysalis has one similar past at some point... And I'm sure the Chrysalis here is just misunderstood and astray...I guess that's what her roll in life I suppose in every dimension."

Queen Permu watched Light with a curious gaze as he spoke, "There are rumors she may yet be alive here, rumors that Discord didn't kill those he faced. Mayhaps my wayward niece still lives and may yet find her way back."

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" You look quite tired my Queen. I'm guessing the atmosphere in this place is not helping with your health? Have you not chosen an new heir yet?"

She raised an eyebrow skeptically, but let him continue.

On 2021-05-03 at 5:08 PM, Kujamih said:

" Or maybe somewhere fit for a Queen to reside. This feels quite disrespectful for the Queen... I'm sure some changelings are not pleased by this aswell... The changelings sure is divided right now... I think some are trying to revolt or something. I meet a changeling that impersonated Coxa... Boy was her screws loose." 

She let out a long sigh, "Clearly you have a very different view of changelings than I. Maybe the changelings where you're from would have such issues, but that is simply not the case here."

She stretched as she rose from her throne, at full height she was easily as large as Princess Celestia was, moving with an almost Ethereal grace that would put even Princess Luna to shame. "We've not the space nor the resources to produce an 'heir' at this time. This project isn't big enough for two queens. Besides, I'm good for another thousand years yet provided I avoid any major conflicts. Unlike what you might think, this place was built exactly to my specifications. I funded this project after all. No one bothers us down here, we've plenty of mineral water to make our emotion gel with, and we have easy access to any part of the project to keep moral up, and keep the excess emotional energy flowing here, then out to all the changelings on the vessel. I appear tired because there is a lot of strain on this project. Every cycle more and more damaged creatures come aboard, and more and more emotional resources must be devoted to maintain the moral this project needs if it is to last the remaining twenty years."

She shook her head, "Regardless, this news you bring me of an imposter, it is most unusual and worrying. Could you describe her? Further, Dr. Coxa mentioned you know something about a certain material with anti-magical properties?"

 

@Blitz Boom

They'd be the only ones working in the field, so it would be very quiet until the hydroponics kicked in and doused them with water which Briar would be able to tell also had a number of plant nutrients added to it. This way the field was watered and fertilized at the same time.

The water was also fairly cold.

They would be undisturbed in their room the whole night.

 

@Jack Baker @Monotonality

While the minotaur had designed their caves to be nearly indestructible, they had also designed them to be collapsed intentionally in case the passage needed to be closed off in case of invasion or flooding. Maud had hit just the right spot to trigger the collapse for this section, releasing the several tons of sand and gravel that occupied the space above the cavern, burying all the spawn and loyalists under several feat of sediment.

It was only because they had already started moving that they were able to escape the same fate. Making it back through the doors before the sand and gravel could sweep them up as well.

If they were cautious enough about it they could likely dig up one of the loyalists before they suffocated or dug themselves out, though they might be better off heading back and warning the others.

[Thundy]

@Illiad Easle

Thundy fired several blasts of electricity at the spawn, followed by what seemed to be some sort of energy beam that caused Thundy to be surrounded by a cloak of yellow energy. The cloak acted as a temporary shield. 

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle

Trixie listened intently on what was spoken but Spiral once again would speak for her here. She listened thoughtfully at the words. Not only did she get revenge on those performer ponies, but now this one had an opening for a possible position of power. It was simply too good to pass up on. She smirked, "Of course, that sounds great! I thank you for your acceptance of my offer. It seems as though your understaffing problem here benefits the both of us. I'll swing by here tomorrow, ok?" Spiral said with a bit of a parting gesture. While a month was a long while to wait, and she would have to commit to a training with the head of security. She was happy, for once. She was happy, that this librarian would do something good for her. "Thank you..." she spoke as if she never heard someone speak so kind to her.

@Jack Baker @Illiad Easle

Maud would quickly move back and dig out one of the loyalists. She was only able to get to this one since it was close to the entrance. He/she had been banged up and was likely unconscious. Maud would drag them along and would run towards where they had entered. The mineral they are looking for was likely not in here, and plus they had far more pressing matters. The loyalist that Maud had with her was badly bruised, probably had a broken arm or a leg but they would make it. 

Maud knew she killed the spawn and those others. Deep down she felt a twisted sense of delight and vindication upon what she just did but yet her emotionless expression remained.