private The Æther Project

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp

(On the ground)

A general message went out in their radios (So Light doesn't hear this): "This is Amber Shepherd, I'm calling off the mission on the grounds that I see no additional benefit to remaining below that outweighs the risks. Everyone should prepare to pack up and return to the Æther. Given the lateness of the hour, not all of us will return tonight. I'll take volunteers to remain down here overnight."

(Medic tent)

The doctor looked excited at the announcement, and immediately started packing things away and breaking down the unused furniture, but they paused when they saw Light, Maud, and Last. "You're going to force me to stay overnight, aren't you?" The comment wasn't directed at any of them specifically, but rather implying that Light's presence was sufficient enough to warrant that the medic remain on the ground overnight, likely due to the complexity of moving Light.

(Food tent)

Brittle might notice Plein entering the tent, and if she didn't she'd be hard pressed to miss Plein calling for her. Plein looked a bit upset, and was clearly disappointed and a bit angry. Once Plein found Brittle she would sigh, "I'm going to volunteer to stay overnight, how about you?"

 

If Brittle asked why Plein was so upset, She would snort, "You think it's a coincidence that, just a few minutes after Power finishes talking to those creatures and they leave, Amber calls off the mission? Power had something to do with the mission being canceled, and I'm mad that that means my only chance to explore somewhere new is gone."

 

(Last and Maud)

If the two of them went to find Amber, she would ask them, "Are you two willing to stay down here and watch Light overnight? It will take time to make the arrangements for him on the Æther, and he seems to trust you two to guard him."

 

(Spiral)

Spiral would receive a message from the other comms officer, "Amber Shepherd has called off the mission on the ground, declaring it reasonably complete after the data trade. She's requesting that a space be prepared to receive the pony they found down there, and further instructions as to what should be done with them. The medic comments that the pony is, and I quote, 'disturbingly lacking in self preservation instincts.' As they tried to eat their hoofcuffs."

Spiral might notice that Power had not reported back yet about the trade.

 

(Lab)

Power would come over to where she was, carrying with him a sealed flask of some strange substance (I never got a description as to what the power boosting matter, I'm going to go with an amber color, so that it matches with minostralium as the other mana boosting material in-universe) "Hey, Blitz, if you're not too busy, I've got something I need help testing. It might explode!" They way he said the last part made it clear he expected that would entice her, while others would consider that a reason not to participate.

If she agreed, he would lead her to another lab, one with a viewing room that she could put her daughter in if the protective frame wasn't easily moved.

If she refused, he'd pout, "Another time then, let me know when you're free. It could have some serious implications if successful."

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp

(On the Ground)

With the trade-walkers seemingly have departed the area, there would be nothing else for them to do here presently that didn't involve taking not needed risks. The sun in the sky did not move that much, surprisingly. It must be that this world has a far longer day length than the one they are used to. They probably wouldn't really want to be here when it actually gets to be night, anyway.

(Medic Tent)

 

Quote

"Can't argue that he's a regular, predictable creature. My first concern were figuring out if this were the real one, and then sort out what to do with him from there, if it were. Light as I knew him, were unpredictable, so there were always a risk. We need to sort if he's the real one, and then report whatever we figure out, on to Amber and The Consul. It'll be The Consul who decides what to do with him in the end.

SO far, I'm inclined to go with both my gut feeling, and more importantly, the evidence, that suggest this here's the real deal. An unpredictable annoyance, but one who've shown that in a pinch, he's able to do the right thing. That's my tentative report so far at least."

As they were in a tent, they couldn't see what were going on outside proper, though if the mantid's wings were buzzing notably, Last would perk her ears, and listen in, wondering what it were she were hearing, and growing distrustful from it.

"I have no current opinion at the current time about this. Just as long as he is secure, when we return to the Project we can hand him over to more qualified individuals to assess his condition." Maud spoke, seemingly not wishing to be around light more than she had to. 

Quote

... You do know that you have the same power as your younger sister pinkie pie right? You are actually more unpredictable than me.... ESPECIALLY when you're mad... No one can escape you... Even I would avoid messing with you."

Maud would glare at Light, an unreadable expression coming across her face. "For your sake, I highly suggest you avoid mentioning my sister to me." she said, leaning in slightly to make her point heard. "I'm going to pretend you didn't say that." she said, then looking away.
 

Quote

The doctor looked excited at the announcement, and immediately started packing things away and breaking down the unused furniture, but they paused when they saw Light, Maud, and Last. "You're going to force me to stay overnight, aren't you?" The comment wasn't directed at any of them specifically, but rather implying that Light's presence was sufficient enough to warrant that the medic remain on the ground overnight, likely due to the complexity of moving Light.

Maud would look to the doctor. "It's for the best, due to the highly complex situation we have found ourselves in with this individual here. I will be volunteering to stay overnight to watch over him." She spoke, and would look to Last to see if she would agree to stay overnight with Light.

(Spiral)

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Spiral would receive a message from the other comms officer, "Amber Shepherd has called off the mission on the ground, declaring it reasonably complete after the data trade. She's requesting that a space be prepared to receive the pony they found down there, and further instructions as to what should be done with them. The medic comments that the pony is, and I quote, 'disturbingly lacking in self preservation instincts.' As they tried to eat their hoofcuffs."

Spiral might notice that Power had not reported back yet about the trade.

Spiral was in her office when she heard the message from the Comms Officer, and would listen intently. "Amber Shepard is correct on calling off the mission on the ground. We don't want to be here longer than we have to be. I didn't expect a pony to be found down there, but that is concerning. I will have a space prepared for them as soon as possible." Spiral would reply back.

Then Spiral would patch her microphone so that security and medical staff can listen to further instructions, "This is the Consul speaking - On the surface below I am receiving word that a mentally unstable pony was found on the surface. I would like for a space to be prepared with appropriate accommodations for them. I would also highly recommend that additional security be posted around the area, and that this individual be quarantined from the regular populace until we can fully determine the best course of action to be taken." Spiral would state to them, and would await their reply.
 

Quote

Spiral might notice that Power had not reported back yet about the trade.

After Spiral had informed the security and medical staff, Spiral would also request an update from Power for what he had found. 

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@StrawberryMilk Simp @Illiad Easle @Props Valroa

(Medic Tent)

On 2023-11-04 at 9:50 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

Ouch....that part of you didn't change..."

"I have no need for subtlety."

Her gaze were iron, as she responded. Might be that some would find her degree of honesty too direct and insensitive, but why sugarcoat what they all knew? Light were not normal, and could not be approached as if he were. That he could at least see and accept that himself, were worth something, and so she had given him somewhat of a compliment. Just in her... Less than tactful way.

As for his antics, they were just odd. She had grown in the past 20 years, and whilst she could certainly still find annoyance in things, and in Light's behavior, she weren't as prone at growling, and sneering over the smallest infractions. She supposed having foals helped on that too, since they tested her patience, growing up. Not that she'd trade them for the world. She loved them dearly, and that were why she made sure they grew up knowing how to fight. She weren't gonna have her foals become victims.

On 2023-11-04 at 9:50 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

"... You do know that you have the same power as your younger sister pinkie pie right? You are actually more unpredictable than me.... ESPECIALLY when you're mad... No one can escape you... Even I would avoid messing with you."

On 2023-11-13 at 8:51 PM, Spiral Spell said:

Maud would glare at Light, an unreadable expression coming across her face. "For your sake, I highly suggest you avoid mentioning my sister to me." she said, leaning in slightly to make her point heard. "I'm going to pretend you didn't say that." she said, then looking away.

Last rose an eyebrow over this, but said not a word. She dare say, this were probably the closest thing she had come to seeing Maud actually be angry. Surprisingly, Last hadn't seen this before, as she hadn't brought up Pinkie Pie. She figured that if Maud wanted to talk about her sister, she'd bring it up herself. Weren't like she knew much of the odd mare in the first place. She'd seen her a couple of times, and she seemed annoyingly chipper. What more were there that she could add to that? And it wasn't a good thing to say to her older sister. It seemed disrespectful. Doubly so, as Pinkie Pie had been well liked in general.

Now she knew for certain not to bring her up though, as it appeared that the mare did not like to be reminded of her sister. A fair thing really, and Last could both sympathize, and understand. While she had gotten to the pint where she'd speak of her friends and family, she had a fair bit of time, when mentioning them were not getting a good response from her. Especially her mother, whom she only spoke of, when it came to making the point that she had seen her being dragged off into a cursed forest, never to return. Something she mostly only said in anger anyway.

Times had changed, and she'd be more open now, but it weren't for everyone. Some had deep scars over losing those they loved, and heartless as she could sometimes seem, Last were not keen on digging into such wounds. Even though she hadn't expected Maud to have those. It seemed she simply hid them well.

On 2023-11-04 at 9:50 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

"....ouch... But, thanks?.... Anyway im not the trouble here. But i do bring them quite alot."

He scratched his head and thought to himself how he could vaguely help them in a way.

"Im like the message. No matter how annoying it is, its not the messages fault, but whats written on it is what you guys should be worrying....

For example the mantids and Avarice."

He then sighed.

" I think peace has made you people a bit complacent. Maybe the gryphon's paranoia has some good to it. As in a very small one to be precise."

"Until they make a move, we are to treat them as guests, but remain on guard. I don't like them, and I don't trust them, but I'm willing to accept that I'm biased, because of what they remind me of. Besides, I'm not in charge here. The order is not for me to give, lest something happens that forces my hoof."

Had she wanted to, one could argue that Last could have reached a rank where Amber were below her, but she weren't interested. Last led her own team, and it were better that The Æther not rely on her, as she were determined for them to leave, once things had settled. Besides, she didn't care for the paperwork. That alone were reason enough for her to not want it.

On 2023-11-13 at 3:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

A general message went out in their radios (So Light doesn't hear this): "This is Amber Shepherd, I'm calling off the mission on the grounds that I see no additional benefit to remaining below that outweighs the risks. Everyone should prepare to pack up and return to the Æther. Given the lateness of the hour, not all of us will return tonight. I'll take volunteers to remain down here overnight."

Last were disappointed, but not surprised at the message. With everything happening, and the warnings they had, there were scarcely a reason to stay for longer than were needed. Even if they had to split things, instead of going home all at the same time. What happened when things ended abruptly, she supposed.

On 2023-11-13 at 3:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The doctor looked excited at the announcement, and immediately started packing things away and breaking down the unused furniture, but they paused when they saw Light, Maud, and Last. "You're going to force me to stay overnight, aren't you?" The comment wasn't directed at any of them specifically, but rather implying that Light's presence was sufficient enough to warrant that the medic remain on the ground overnight, likely due to the complexity of moving Light.

On 2023-11-13 at 8:51 PM, Spiral Spell said:

Maud would look to the doctor. "It's for the best, due to the highly complex situation we have found ourselves in with this individual here. I will be volunteering to stay overnight to watch over him." She spoke, and would look to Last to see if she would agree to stay overnight with Light.

On 2023-11-13 at 3:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

If the two of them went to find Amber, she would ask them, "Are you two willing to stay down here and watch Light overnight? It will take time to make the arrangements for him on the Æther, and he seems to trust you two to guard him."

"I ain't forcing you, but they'd probably want some medical staff here, in case something happens during the night. So you'd more than likely be asked to stay, even if you hadn't volunteered.

And yeah, I'll stay here with Maud. The kids ain't expecting me home for several more days anyway, and with our forces diverted, those remaining are gonna need experienced fighters, in case something happens. Besides, someone needs to make sure that Light doesn't try to munch down more metal, or something dumber."

She were probably not going to let him hear the end of that for a while. Not that he deserved to either, considering how boneheaded that were. Just what she expected from him, and yet, she still found it baffling that he'd attempt something so reckless.

Best to keep an eye on him, until the morrow, then escort him back on the ship. They'd see what would happen from there.

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

 

(Food Tent)

Brittle wouldn't ask why Plein were so upset, but she would ask if the young mare were okay. Which were likely to give her the same response, as it were the same question behind it in essence, albeit worded differently. She definitely weren't at her regular, after the message. She didn't need to be a changeling to tell that.

"I... Yes, I'll stay too. I were meant to test being away from home. If I can't even take one night, I'd stand no chance in the real world, right?

And uhm... I guess, it makes sense, when you put it like that. About the mission, I mean. The timing does seem to indicate that's the case at least. It's a shame but I'm sure there'll be other chances, right? If not... I mean, we're soon going home. And after twenty years, I'm sure it's nothing like how we left it. A lot of places to explore there then, yes?

Though I admit, I had hoped to test myself for longer than this, and see some new sights too. Seeing something new, away from the safety of The Æther... It's been something I've looked forward to for a while, and I'm not thrilled it ended before time either."

Truth be told, she had half a mind to ask Plein if when they landed back in the world they left behind, if she wanted to come along. There were a big world to explore. Places and creatures to see, and even if she were looking for the place she felt like she belonged, she only had a vague idea of where that might even be. Wandering around, exploring things for a while, sounded like it'd be nice.

Maybe she'd bring it up later.

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

 

(Lab)

"Explode you say? Awh you sweet talker. You know just what to say to a mare."

Blitz would have just finished settling things in proper, when she had been approached by Power, carrying some sort of liquid. The one that might blow up, she'd assume. Well far be it for her to ignore the chance to see something blow up, even if it weren't because of anything she had done.

"Lemme just loosen her, and we can do on our way."

She'd use her magic to float over some of the tools in her belt, which would quickly loosen the bolts and screws that kept the crib in place, and replacing them with wheels, hanging up the side.

Some might think her overprotective, but as she'd argue, if something did blow up in here, then what good were it, that the crib were blast proof, if it could rattle around? No, she had to make sure that it'd stay still. So using a few specialized tools, she had made certain that the bottom of the crib, would stay still, no matter where she brought it. It essentially involved some magic, and high end magnetism, but the entire schematic filled about thirty pages. She still had to perfect it a bit more, so she didn't have to change the bottom so much, just to make sure she could both move it around, and keep it secure, but one thing at a time.

For now, she could bring her work crib along, and would indeed place it in the viewing room, rather than having her down in the room with them. Best let the little one sleep tightly, while they got to work.

[Evil Pink One 13,000]

On 2023-11-14 at 3:51 AM, Spiral Spell said:

For your sake, I highly suggest you avoid mentioning my sister to me." she said, leaning in slightly to make her point heard. "I'm going to pretend you didn't say that."

" hey i dont know what your beef is, but lets be professional. I didnt even said anything bad about her to begin with. Hence proving my point that you're more unpredictable than me. Must be the power going through your head? Or is it a curse on the project? Hmmm..." Light ponders.

19 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

"I have no need for subtlety."

"...I'm guessing daddy's the favorite huh..." he blurted out. He soon realized that maybe he said too much and would cover his mouth.

19 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

And yeah, I'll stay here with Maud. The kids ain't expecting me home for several more days anyway, and with our forces diverted, those remaining are gonna need experienced fighters, in case something happens. Besides, someone needs to make sure that Light doesn't try to munch down more metal, or something dumber."

As they talked to themselves, Light wouldn't need to know what was said to them at the radio. Their reactions and interactions to one another was good enough.

" thats not the dumbest thing I've ever done so far..." he sighed.

" but i do plan to infuse this material to become my own.... Although this material isn't even CANON to begin with... But this will probably help me in this dimension." He said as if he actually have the materials...

He then proceeds to whistle.

" oh and make sure you dont end up bringing something back in the project thats unaccounted for..." he added.

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom @Props Valroa

Edited November 15, 2023 by StrawberryMilk Simp

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp

On 2023-11-13 at 12:51 PM, Spiral Spell said:

With the trade-walkers seemingly have departed the area, there would be nothing else for them to do here presently that didn't involve taking not needed risks. The sun in the sky did not move that much, surprisingly. It must be that this world has a far longer day length than the one they are used to. They probably wouldn't really want to be here when it actually gets to be night, anyway.

The crew on the Æther had noticed this, and were already erecting the night shades for the trees on the top of the project. They had experienced strange day/night cycles before and were prepared.

Those spending the 'night' on the ground would likely have difficultly sleeping with the sun still up, but the extra light would make guarding easier.

 

(Spiral)

The medical department confirmed her request and stated that an area would be prepared, but it would take some time. Luckily they estimated that it would be ready to receive the pony in the morning, lining up with the plan on the ground.

When it came to her request to Power, the pony at the comms station said that he hadn't returned to his post yet, but they would send out a message looking for him to pass her request along.

 

(Brittle)

On 2023-11-14 at 4:46 PM, Blitz Boom said:

And uhm... I guess, it makes sense, when you put it like that. About the mission, I mean. The timing does seem to indicate that's the case at least. It's a shame but I'm sure there'll be other chances, right? If not... I mean, we're soon going home. And after twenty years, I'm sure it's nothing like how we left it. A lot of places to explore there then, yes?

Though I admit, I had hoped to test myself for longer than this, and see some new sights too. Seeing something new, away from the safety of The Æther... It's been something I've looked forward to for a while, and I'm not thrilled it ended before time either."

Plein sighed, still disappointed but seemingly calmed by Brittle's answer, "I guess you're right. But still, it would have been really cool to explore some place that no pony had ever seen before, even if it is more dangerous. On the plus side though, they wont need to fill the tents as much, so the two of us can have a tent to ourselves! It's been ages since we last spent time together, and I know that's mostly my fault, but still, maybe this won't be so bad?"

Plein would turn to leave the tent, "I'll go move our stuff together, I'm sure you've got plenty to worry about prepping here."

 

True enough, the two dogs would return asking if Brittle was planning to stay, and if she'd be okay running breakfast by herself. If she wasn't then one of the dogs would stay behind to help, otherwise they would run her through the procedure again before going to pack up their things. In either case they would show her the full menu that had been planned: "Since we're cutting the mission early, we'll be sending some of the food up early, we'll still leave enough for a few days in case something goes wrong, but you won't have to be as strict about portions tonight and tomorrow, and you can pick which of the planned meals you want to have ready down here, rather than using the set rota."

Brittle would, in essence, get to decide what dinner and breakfast would be, and what would be held just in case they needed to stay longer. She could choose something easy to prepare, but would be less appealing to those remaining, or something special that the volunteers would appreciate, but would take more time for her (and one of the dogs if she asked) to prepare.

 

(Medic)

The medic sighed, "Fine, I'll stay, but only because I'm sure he would try and kill himself if not monitored. Who knows what else he might try and eat?" They then set about packing up all of the non-essentials in the tent so they could be shipped up in advance.

 

(Lab)

Once Blitz was in the lab and ready to begin Power would unseal the canister, "This is something I picked up as part of a trade mission I was just sent on. Rather, I was given the knowledge on how to make it. It is a substance that, according to what was shared, draws in energy from other dimensions, or maybe from between dimensions, and enables it for use in other applications. I think it was meant as a fuel source, but I did some tinkering and I think it can be used to boost magical energy. I just need you to cast a spell on it, something that typically takes a lot of energy, so I can measure the effect it does or does not have."

[Spiral Spell]

@Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp

(Light, Last, and the Medic)

Quote

Last rose an eyebrow over this, but said not a word. She dare say, this were probably the closest thing she had come to seeing Maud actually be angry. Surprisingly, Last hadn't seen this before, as she hadn't brought up Pinkie Pie. She figured that if Maud wanted to talk about her sister, she'd bring it up herself. Weren't like she knew much of the odd mare in the first place. She'd seen her a couple of times, and she seemed annoyingly chipper. What more were there that she could add to that? And it wasn't a good thing to say to her older sister. It seemed disrespectful. Doubly so, as Pinkie Pie had been well liked in general.

Now she knew for certain not to bring her up though, as it appeared that the mare did not like to be reminded of her sister. A fair thing really, and Last could both sympathize, and understand. While she had gotten to the pint where she'd speak of her friends and family, she had a fair bit of time, when mentioning them were not getting a good response from her. Especially her mother, whom she only spoke of, when it came to making the point that she had seen her being dragged off into a cursed forest, never to return. Something she mostly only said in anger anyway.

Times had changed, and she'd be more open now, but it weren't for everyone. Some had deep scars over losing those they loved, and heartless as she could sometimes seem, Last were not keen on digging into such wounds. Even though she hadn't expected Maud to have those. It seemed she simply hid them well.

That were how Maud were. There were many things about her she had been excellent at hiding. This just so happened to be one of them. There were very few that Maud had any kind of closeness on the project. First, there were Trixie. But the unfortunate thing about her was that Trixie was in a coma for several years, though thankfully when she woke up she didn't remember a thing about it. Trixie was a complex sort, having one of the worst lives that Maud knew of. Getting possessed by someone and not able to control her own body for years - and then that someone being forgiven for her deeds, and becoming the leading Consul of the Ship. Speaking of the Consul, Spiral and Maud had talked many times over the years and were on good terms. 

 

Quote

" hey i dont know what your beef is, but lets be professional. I didnt even said anything bad about her to begin with. Hence proving my point that you're more unpredictable than me. Must be the power going through your head? Or is it a curse on the project? Hmmm..." Light ponders

Maud didn't even dignify this response that she got from Light and just stood there silently. Last can do the talking if she wanted. After this - Maud wasn't going to find herself around Light again. He was a very unstable, and likely insane individual. She wasn't here to entertain that. 

Quote

(Medic)

The medic sighed, "Fine, I'll stay, but only because I'm sure he would try and kill himself if not monitored. Who knows what else he might try and eat?" They then set about packing up all of the non-essentials in the tent so they could be shipped up in advance.

Maud would proceed to help the Medic pack up the various non-essentials to at least help him out with that.

(Spiral)
 

Quote

(Spiral)

The medical department confirmed her request and stated that an area would be prepared, but it would take some time. Luckily they estimated that it would be ready to receive the pony in the morning, lining up with the plan on the ground.

When it came to her request to Power, the pony at the comms station said that he hadn't returned to his post yet, but they would send out a message looking for him to pass her request along.

 

Spiral would be pleased with he requests being confirmed and would await the results of them. Spiral was very clear on there being no form of leeway for the pony they were going to bring onboard. They were going to be isolated from the rest of the ship and kept under close watch. 

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Props Valroa @StrawberryMilk Simp @Illiad Easle

(Medic Tent)

On 2023-11-15 at 8:35 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

"...I'm guessing daddy's the favorite huh..." he blurted out. He soon realized that maybe he said too much and would cover his mouth.

"Depends on the topic and time."

Last weren't a liar. FOr a long time, daddy were the favorite, as he were less strict than her, and actually had a very warm, open heart. Especially towards his own young, whilst Last were more stoic. Although she dearly loved her foals, showing it as openly as him were a challenge for her. And they were not always happy either, once they grew older, and she started to include them in training, even if it were light stuff. It had been a back and forth a while between Sugar and her, on how best to sort things, with him understanding her perspective, but wanting her to understand that she had to be lenient, as they were but foals.

It had taken time, but they had found a good middle ground, and ensured that while her foals got training done, they'd still have plenty of time for school, sleep, and playtime with other foals. Those who wanted to play with them at least, as the twins were judged some by whom their parents were. But eventually they too grew in mind, and just began realizing that they didn't care, what folks said about their parents. They knew they both loved them, and wanted what were best for them. What a bunch of narrow-minded weaklings said, weren't anything they had a need to care about.

The fact they could win a fight over several of the parents who talked poorly about them or their parents behind their backs? Made them a bit smug, but Sugar and Last, did their best to make sure the two wouldn't become insufferable, and vain. They wanted healthy, strong foals. Not elitists who looked down on everyone, regardless if they deserved it or not.

On 2023-11-15 at 8:35 PM, StrawberryMilk Simp said:

As they talked to themselves, Light wouldn't need to know what was said to them at the radio. Their reactions and interactions to one another was good enough.

" thats not the dumbest thing I've ever done so far..." he sighed.

" but i do plan to infuse this material to become my own.... Although this material isn't even CANON to begin with... But this will probably help me in this dimension." He said as if he actually have the materials...

He then proceeds to whistle.

" oh and make sure you dont end up bringing something back in the project thats unaccounted for..." he added.

"We're bringing you. I'm thinking that's enough weirdness for one trip. Just try not to do something self-destructive.

Scratch that, at no point, do something destructive at all. Self or not. We've many here who'd like to come back to their families alive. That's also why I'm not leaving you out of my sight. I ain't risking that you go out and *repurpose* part of the defense perimeter. Or infuse it, or whatever you wanna call it. Frankly I ain't sure exactly what you're on about, but I get the feeling I wouldn't believe it, even if you said so."

It were kinda like what she knew about Pinkie Pie. The less you questioned the meaning of what happened around them, the easier it'd be to just get on with things. Besides all these dimensions, mixing and matching, and what the heck he even were exactly, weren't important to her. That were for the egg heads, and those who needed to know, to weigh the potential risks, such as Spiral. She were gonna have her hooves filled with this one.

On 2023-11-20 at 4:29 AM, Illiad Easle said:

The medic sighed, "Fine, I'll stay, but only because I'm sure he would try and kill himself if not monitored. Who knows what else he might try and eat?" They then set about packing up all of the non-essentials in the tent so they could be shipped up in advance.

"You have my word, that I'll keep him under observation, and try to keep his diet to actual food. That said,"

She'd help along if she could, but her primary focus were on keeping track of Light, and ensuring he didn't just rush off to explore on his own. Not without her following at least, and mumbling something about breaking something of his. Likely a knee. It was a simple way to keep him in place. Well, it were with normal creatures. For all she knew, his knees were made of metal, and she'd end up breaking something of her own instead.

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

 

(Lab)

"Ooooh. Now that's exciting."

Blitz grinned widely, and a blue'ish flame would pop on the top of her horn. Then she'd change her mind, and snuff it out again.

Blitz had trained a fair bit over the years, and had made good use of her natural proficiency at pyromancy. What used to be an ember that she used to light fireworks, had gotten stronger, and could light proper fires now. She didn't even use a stove when she cooked, instead it as practice time. Same went for warming up her daughter's bottle. It didn't take much to just let go, and cause an inferno. But finesse in how to control the fire just right, in size and temperature? Now that took skills, in a way that she wanted. As she used to bring up, a fireball was amateur hour. Try making a welding flame, and you got something good.

In fairness, she did sometimes set things on fire. She might be older and wiser, but that didn't mean accidents didn't happen.

As for the current situation, if this amplified things, she'd think that using fire would be bad, or she might end up accidentally setting the whole Æther on fire. Better to do something simpler, and less dangerous.

"Maybe something less dangerous to start. Let's begin with simple telekinesis, then work our way up from there."

So she'd use telekinesis on it, intending to make it float. If that worked, she'd then begin to use more magic, to make more things around her float. If it effected her magic, she should fell less of a strain in the long run. Or it amplified it, making everything in here float or something, and she'd stop casting instantly. Either way, it should be less dangerous than fire.

[Evil Pink One 13,000]

On 2023-11-21 at 1:22 AM, Spiral Spell said:

Maud didn't even dignify this response that she got from Light and just stood there silently. Last can do the talking if she wanted. After this - Maud wasn't going to find herself around Light again. He was a very unstable, and likely insane individual. She wasn't here to entertain that

" .... Tsk. No response. Although i think its for the best." He told himself.

On 2023-11-25 at 8:10 AM, Blitz Boom said:

Depends on the topic and time."

".... hmmm that pretty much answers it." He gave a curious face.

On 2023-11-25 at 8:10 AM, Blitz Boom said:

We're bringing you. I'm thinking that's enough weirdness for one trip. Just try not to do something self-destructive.

Scratch that, at no point, do something destructive at all. Self or not. We've many here who'd like to come back to their families alive. That's also why I'm not leaving you out of my sight. I ain't risking that you go out and *repurpose* part of the defense perimeter. Or infuse it, or whatever you wanna call it. Frankly I ain't sure exactly what you're on about, but I get the feeling I wouldn't believe it, even if you said so."

" nahh you wont have to worry about me. the griffon's dead right? I'd be worried about the draconicous roaming about." He replied.

" im just gonna enjoy the rest of what remains in my life.

Don't worry i wont explode or anything. I'll just simply vanish when the time comes."

" by the way? Did you guys made a statue out of me? Or just a grave stone? My deeds must've meant something right? 

"I always wanted to see my own grave even just once." The silly pony added.

" but i wouldn't pass or trade it for the world to be escorted by you." He winked at Last.

On 2023-11-25 at 8:10 AM, Blitz Boom said:

You have my word, that I'll keep him under observation, and try to keep his diet to actual food. That said,

".... I'll behave!.... for you okay." He shrugged.

@Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle @Props Valroa

Edited December 8, 2023 by Evil Pink One

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Props Valroa @StrawberryMilk Simp @Illiad Easle

(Medic tent)

On 2023-12-08 at 10:27 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" nahh you wont have to worry about me. the griffon's dead right? I'd be worried about the draconicous roaming about." He replied.

" im just gonna enjoy the rest of what remains in my life.

Don't worry i wont explode or anything. I'll just simply vanish when the time comes."

" by the way? Did you guys made a statue out of me? Or just a grave stone? My deeds must've meant something right? 

"I always wanted to see my own grave even just once." The silly pony added.

" but i wouldn't pass or trade it for the world to be escorted by you." He winked at Last.

"The years haven't made you get tired of the sound of your own voice, I see.

And statues and headstones, aren't easy to work with on the ship. Many ways that sorta thing can get broken down. But I did make sure you'd have a memorial, in wood. I were considering setting it on fire when we eventually landed. It's how we sent off our honored dead, back in the Shrine Maidens, but since you ain't dead, that's a bit premature. Sounds like your idea of death though, is basically just ending up like we though you had. Gone without a trace."

Weren't a lot to look at, as she wasn't the most artistic, but she had done as best she could, and honored it yearly, as she believed were proper. Just as many others did at the memorial wall, where his name were likely scribbled down too. Might be that the years had been safer up there, but death were still not that far from them, on The Æther. Eventually, some would die, and not all were from mere illness, or old age.

As for the wink, she didn't act upon it. She were married with kids, and he knew it. She assumed this were just him being wacky again, as it were.

On 2023-12-08 at 10:27 PM, Evil Pink One said:

".... I'll behave!.... for you okay." He shrugged.

"Ain't just for me. You still need to convince the consul not to toss you out of The Æther on your rear. The better behaved you are, the easier that'll be."

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

 

(Brittle)

On 2023-11-20 at 4:29 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Plein sighed, still disappointed but seemingly calmed by Brittle's answer, "I guess you're right. But still, it would have been really cool to explore some place that no pony had ever seen before, even if it is more dangerous. On the plus side though, they wont need to fill the tents as much, so the two of us can have a tent to ourselves! It's been ages since we last spent time together, and I know that's mostly my fault, but still, maybe this won't be so bad?"

Plein would turn to leave the tent, "I'll go move our stuff together, I'm sure you've got plenty to worry about prepping here."

"W-We can do that, yes. After w-work, of course. I'll uh, see you later, Plein. Stay safe, okay? And make sure to come around for dinner."

Brittle would wave at Plein as she went off, as well as give her a little smile too on the way. Maybe when they had that time to talk, she could bring up that perhaps, they could travel out there, once they got back to their own dimension, and home on the ground? Wouldn't be like they remembered it there, that were for sure, so there'd probably be plenty of stuff to find. Including some relics, books, treasure- Things lost in the war, that could come forth again. And perhaps even some ancient things, that had been stirred up by the global conflict. That'd be a grand adventure too, right? She just had to get the nerve to try and ask her. Which she should've been able to gather up, before they met up again later.

On 2023-11-20 at 4:29 AM, Illiad Easle said:

True enough, the two dogs would return asking if Brittle was planning to stay, and if she'd be okay running breakfast by herself. If she wasn't then one of the dogs would stay behind to help, otherwise they would run her through the procedure again before going to pack up their things. In either case they would show her the full menu that had been planned: "Since we're cutting the mission early, we'll be sending some of the food up early, we'll still leave enough for a few days in case something goes wrong, but you won't have to be as strict about portions tonight and tomorrow, and you can pick which of the planned meals you want to have ready down here, rather than using the set rota."

Brittle would, in essence, get to decide what dinner and breakfast would be, and what would be held just in case they needed to stay longer. She could choose something easy to prepare, but would be less appealing to those remaining, or something special that the volunteers would appreciate, but would take more time for her (and one of the dogs if she asked) to prepare.

Considering how few would remain, Brittle assured them that she could do it herself. It would honestly be good for her anyway. Gave her a chance to try her hoof at something without the safety net of others, and show that she could handle herself. Yes it wasn't as bad as if they had a full crew, and had to ration harshly, as she'd then be faced with grumbling bellies, from irate beings eventually, but it were still a task that she could take on, all by herself. That'd be good for her still.

"That's good to know. I'll try and pick something nice for those staying here. They could probably use it, after the day we've had."

She'd go a bit off the set rota as it were, and pick something nice. It'd take time to get ready yes, and she likely had to get started pretty much now, but it'd be good for those who stayed, and honestly, it'd help her keep her mind off of the large insect creatures in their camp, and how dangerous it might be when they were staffed less, etc. Staying busy should help on that. Besides, she liked the smell of a good, cooked meal. Even if she mostly just ate emotions, that didn't mean that she couldn't appreciate real food, or the smell of it. Like the folks who didn't drink coffee, but liked the smell of a freshly brewed can.

Things should be fine, long as nothing crazy happened.

[Illiad Easle 2,973]

@Props Valroa @Blitz Boom @StrawberryMilk Simp

(The Lab)

For Blitz, the canister was no easier to lift than she might have guessed. The material within not really reacting to her magic. However, it did feel different to hold in her magic, almost like touching Power himself did, or if she had ever hid to carry something charged with magical energy.

Power would ask, "Well, it didn't explode, does it feel easier? harder? what can you tell?"

 

(Outside)

Given the eagerness of the veterans to not remain on the surface any longer than necessary, the breakdown of camp went faster than expected, and quicker too. Meaning that everything had been sent up before breakfast the next morning. Plein had managed to secure a tent to herself with Brittle, and while Plein had briefly considered going out exploring anyway, and said as much to Brittle, she ultimately did not. Unfortunately the two of them didn't get much time to talk that night, but they decided to make a stronger effort to reconnect when back on the Project, hopefully before they returned to Equis.

 

(Light, Last, and Maud)

Light was brought up with those agreeing to guard him as soon as they received word that an area was ready, making him one of the last things to return to the Project. The three of them were led to a secure area of the science sector, where they'd be able to continue their conversation.

[Maud Pie]

@Illiad Easle @Illiad Easle @Blitz Boom

 

Quote

Light, Last, and Maud)

Light was brought up with those agreeing to guard him as soon as they received word that an area was ready, making him one of the last things to return to the Project. The three of them were led to a secure area of the science sector, where they'd be able to continue their conversation.

By this point, Maud was silent as she was brought up with the others. She was glad to leave the surface behind - knowing there were likely unseen dangers down below on the surface. Not to mention, it was good that Light was brought into a well guarded area that was isolated from the rest of the crew. Maud would still follow the others to the secure area, waiting to see what the word was about what would be done with Light. Part of her was hoping that they could just keep him away from the others on the ship until they could find some place to drop him off, knowing he might be potentially dangerous.

[Evil Pink One 13,000]

On 2023-12-23 at 5:42 AM, Illiad Easle said:

was brought up with those agreeing to guard him as soon as they received word that an area was ready, making him one of the last things to return to the Project. The three of them were led to a secure area of the science sector, where they'd be able to continue their conversation.

Light would casually look around to see what changes happened to the project. But usually just stare at Maud.

" i finally got in."

On 2023-12-23 at 6:32 AM, Maud Pie said:

Maud would still follow the others to the secure area, waiting to see what the word was about what would be done with Light. Part of her was hoping that they could just keep him away from the others on the ship until they could find some place to drop him off, knowing he might be potentially dangerous.

" psst.. hey Maud."

@Blitz Boom @Illiad Easle @Props Valroa

Edited December 25, 2023 by Evil Pink One

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Props Valroa @StrawberryMilk Simp @Illiad Easle

(Lab)

"No, not easier or harder. It was more like lifting something already charged with magical energies. Kinda like you. Remember how I used to try and leash you with magic, so I could drag you around like a dog? Aaah, those were some fun times."

She didn't say it had actually worked, but she did try and leash him per se, using magic, and it felt rather similar to that. Just without him resisting.

"It might be a matter of it storing energy that is used against it, rather than holding it. We can try something more forcible, but small scale. I don't want us to torch The Æther.

Let's put it in a safe clear case, and then try poking it with magical fire. Maybe nothing happens. Maybe it starts an inferno. Either way, we're gonna take safety precautions. I'm not gonna leave my daughter motherless."

Still felt strange sometimes, hearing herself talk about safety and precaution. Heh, her brother were right. She would eventually outgrow her own impatience. To a certain extend anyway.

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

 

(The Æther)

Brittle and Last were happy to return to The Æther, though for different reasons. And yet, both would have some waiting for them, as they returned.

In Brittle's case, it were her father, who were sitting and humming to himself, and as a rare treat, he were alone. Usually it could get hard to ensure that he weren't followed by at least one of the other of his kind.

Yet as he moved to greet her, she'd find that it weren't that simple after all, as she saw a glimmer in the corner. A shine off of a medallion, that she knew belonged to the most reclusive of the evergrown on their ship: Thorn Weaver. The shine came from that pendant she always wore, and she knew it was that, as the glimmer were not a simple shine of the light, but a reflection in rainbow colors. Like a crystalized sliver of a rainbow, or something.

But she were respectful, and would allow the two of them their moment to meet, and embrace after the days apart. Briar had to admit that he had gotten somewhat worried, when he heard that things had been cancelled early, but seeing his daughter here back and safe, eased his heart.

They'd have a bit of small-talk, while Last had her visitors: A couple of young ponies. One lime-green and white fur pattern, with an ashen mane and tail, and the other with an ashen coat, and lime-green tail and mane. Both had mane and tail styles that looked rather casual, and their manes weren't too long. Last might have a long braid, but she had practiced longer. She'd allow her kids to get long hair too, when they didn't stumble around with it. Plus her daughter kept chewing on it when it got too long.

Both seemed around the same age, and had matching, warm and ocean-blue eyes. As well as cheeky grins.

"Mom!"

"Mom!"

She'd embrace them with a leg each, and rest her head between theirs, and closed her eyes. The smile on her face said it all really: Sometimes, you just had to come home, and know that you were missed by someone you cared for. Her husband would be the same later, but he were working right now more than likely, which were why her kids were here, unsupervised. Risky for young teens like this, but she knew they could beat the tar out of most who wanted to give them trouble, even if they were only 11.

"I missed you too, you little rascals."

The young mare would pull back, and feign offense with her posture and voice. It were light and breezy, and sounded like dainty bells were meant to ring behind them as she spoke.

"Us? But we're so well behaved."

"Uhuh. And what would your father say?"

The twins would look towards one another, then grin, and look back at their mom. This time, the young stallion would answer, and his voice had a ring of mischievousness to it. Not due to something he were planning, he just had the tone of voice that at natural like this, made him sound like a colt planning to clue someone to a chair.

"He'd lie."

Last smirked a little at that one. Utterly ruthless little things these two, and she couldn't be prouder.

"I still need to debrief after the trip, but I'll be home soon, and this time, I'm bringing something special."

"Does it move? Is it fuzzy?"

"No, I've not found you a cave spider. I swear, I'm never gonna forgive your father for showing you that book...

You'll see what it is later. Scurry along now, and don't go torment Milkshake. I need him sharp for later."

They'd hug again, and then they'd take off. If Light had tried to follow her to talk to them, she'd have halted and told him to back off. He'd get introduced in time, but right now wasn't it. They had a debriefing to get to first, and she'd follow along to do that.

Her eyes did go towards the shadowed area, where she had also seen a glimmer. Thorn didn't have to show it, but this were kind of her way of trying to get others attention. A right sway at the right time and all that. And when she'd look over, and acknowledge her with a nod of the head, she'd see the gnarly hand of Thorn rise up to the height of her head, and wave calmly back.

Might well be the first chance several would have to see the elusive evergrown if it were. She tended to keep to her domicile, and working on potions, or other things. Helpful in her own way, and Belladonna certainly appreciated her insight and expertise, but it did leave to more rumors than fact circulating at times. Like she were some sort of bedeviled witch, or monster from the deepest, darkest forest on Equestria. nonsense really. She were from the second-darkest forest in Equestria. The most hadn't drawn in any of her kind, looking for places to plant the sacred seedlings of their trees. She still didn't come from a place that had much in the way of visitors pretty much ever. The place had been considered haunted for centuries. in part due to her branch of evergrown.

Whereas most were shaped like regular beings to an extend, like ponies, griffons, and other such things, Thorn Weaver were more serpentine in nature. Her body from the waist down, entirely made of intertwined vines, formed into the rough shape of a snakes body, with the end being several loose, thorny vines, that made up a sort of gnarled tail, that creaked if she moved them the right way. Though she didn't slither around. Instead, there were several small, gnarly arms growing along the sides of her lower body, with gnarled, thin-looking hands, that were surprisingly durable however, and she moved along with a mixture of skittering with them, and sliding across surfaces. Helped her to climb walls and other surfaces too, and when resting, the arms would usually be clutching towards the inner side of her body. Or belly if you would.

Above the waist, the shape would gradually blossom into more of a typical upper body. She'd have a deep hole in her chest though, where several roots grew across, in a pattern reminiscent of cell bars, making it clear that she had room for things in there. Thing about the size of a typical adult owl, though she tended to leave it empty, or carry some books or vials around. She could retract the *bars* to allow her to reach in and take things at will, using either any of the arms on her lower part of the body, or one of the two that she had down the sides of her upper one. Stronger than the ones below, yet still looked like gnarled branches. Still generally speaking going in a straight direction, but crooked like a witch's hand in appearance.

She also had a pair of arms in front, originating from the top of her chest, but those were normally - like now - clutched close to her body, and then angled upwards, with the hands clutching her shoulders. You might frankly think them just part of her torso, if you didn't knew better. Not that she needed to do this, but she had enough with two arms. The extra pair had their uses, but not currently. Besides it weirded others out more than she already did in general.

Her head were the most normal looking part of her honestly. Looked draconic, including brown, sharp teeth, an elongated mouth, and sharp ears. The sockets had yellow eyes in them, that looked around inquisitively upon others, yet despite her general look, there weren't a hint of malice. Though the longer fangs in front of her mouth, did rightly indicate that yes, she were venomous.

It were honestly close that she had just been torched when they originally found her. If Briar hadn't chanced to be with them down on the surface, because of some evaluation they wanted made about the burnt out remnant of the once great Duskshire Woods, it'd had ended poorly, once Thorn Weaver had crawled down a tree, and greeted them, surprised to see non-hostile entities in her little refuge. Her general look were rather monstrous after all, even if she spoke smoothly and calmly to them. The sight of what the two meter long thing were, were a bit unsettling though.

Weapons had been raised, when Briar had called out, begging them to wait. He had never encountered one of her variant before, but he felt the kindred bond of his species all the same, within the gnarly, dark-brown shell that stood before them. And after talking for some time, he would clear that yes, she were an evergrown, just like him.

It were harder to integrate her though, and she had accepted that she needed to show a level of discretion, and not bother too many, if it could be avoided. Yet as an evergrown, she were undeniably helpful for the agricultural department, even if it turned out, that her variant didn't have as much free essence as one like Briar did. But she still had some, and made up for her lack in this, with her skill in alchemical mixture making, and ability to grow new kinds of flora. Not just things they didn't have here normally on the ship, but new kinds of plants entirely. A quirk of her variant as she put it, even though it took effort and certain steps to be taken, for her to mix up something new, and she needed some basic material to do so as well. Cross-breeding plants were somewhat of a good allegory, but on a more complex scale, with higher potential.

She would wear something though, that hadn't been hers. Not the pendant, that had a multicolored gem in, around the height of a half playing card, dangling from her neck. More that she were wearing a a festive hat. She found the hat tended to be weird enough to pause the fear response her looks sometimes gave. A natural thing to feel, since her sub-species of evergrown, had adapted to a hostile environment, where there were a lot of creepy predators, and thus, they had to be scarier, and more dangerous. She didn't care much for fighting though, if she could help it, regardless of her teeth, fangs, venom, breath attack, and how all her four-fingered hands, had sharp endings. She preferred being useful instead, lest she had a reason to fight.

Edited January 8 by Blitz Boom

[Evil Pink One 13,000]

19 hours ago, Blitz Boom said:

They'd hug again, and then they'd take off. If Light had tried to follow her to talk to them, she'd have halted and told him to back off. He'd get introduced in time, but right now wasn't it. They had a debriefing to get to first, and she'd follow along to do that.

Light wouldn't have the freedom to move freely even if he was deeply curious, as to where last is heading. he would have a glimpse though.

A grin grew on his face though.

He'd patiently wait for Last to return before jesting her.

" you know it doesnt suit you to be a mother... You're More of a dad actually." He'd chuckle.

" you don't mind me calling you dad right?"

His smile wont last though. Last's family is a grim reminder that he is alone.

And also, plans are set in motion and trouble is afoot.

" hey Last what gifts should o give them? Probably a weapon." He glanced at Last. 

" im sure you've thought them combat. I think you're teachings will be put to the test in the near future." He sighed.

" so if you don't mind, id like to give them a gift that they can use." He said seriously to Last.

It seems he is worried for her family.

@Blitz Boom

[Blitz Boom 4,429]

@Props Valroa @StrawberryMilk Simp @Illiad Easle

(The Æther)

"Light, your sword enhancement have been great. Keeps it nice and sharp, as well as useful. Don't think I don't appreciate it.

But if you try and give my kids weapons, I will force feed you those same weapons. They know how to fight, and they got weapons of their own that's suitable for their preferences and age. They don't need a heavy sword to lumber around with, potentially causing trouble. It's be better if they had stronger defenses.

You'll see for yourself soon enough, and understand why it wouldn't do much to help, but just encourage them to become reckless. Though the thought is appreciated."

She refused to acknowledge what he had said, about calling her dad. It were simply too non-sensical for her. Though things had gotten better over the last few decades. At least she didn't growl in his face, or demanded that he shut up. She had learned to just ignore some things. Help and age had done her good.

"And I know they'll be tested. We're returning to the surface proper in a month, and I don't trust that it is a peaceful utopia. It's gonna be dangerous one way or another. That's why I made sure they've kept up with their training. I won't allow my kids to become victims."