private IC: The Frozen North (1x1 with Blitz Boom)

[Magloria]

@Blitz Boom

(Spectra)

Spectra would finish her drink in due time, taking her time in silent thought to ponder over what he had told her. He was cruel - evidently, given that grin across his face. She knew that he had likely vanquished many in his time. A surprising waste of resources, she thought. Though in battle - she supposed it was understandable. Spectra chose not to question him on that, though. He seemed like a very reserved type. Something that was respectable.

After finishing her drink, she would look to him as he already started leaving. Briskly - she would catch up to him. "A price worth paying is a price well spent." she'd say in agreement with him, in a casual tone. Throughout all her conversation she never rose her voice or changed her tone. However talkative she may be - she maintained a general aura of being collected. Loud proclamations never got anyone anywhere - and simply served to garner more attention. Noticing how Jade Eye had tipped the barkeep - she honestly felt surprised by that. Seemingly wishing to keep up a good reputation, she'd quickly levitate a small sum of cash over to the counter, though not affording the barkeep even a look. The tip was her expression, so to speak.

When they walked by Operata, Spectra would glance at him - clearly indicating that she was to be followed though not spoken to. Silence was better. Unless something needed to be said that needed absolute attention - otherwise? She preferred to not be spoke to. As they walked, Spectra too would maintain her silence. Spectra wished to project herself as a thoughtful mare who maintained a sense of conduct, however rambling her words may have been.

Upon seeing the ship he proudly owned, she'd take a look to assess it. Flying sail boat? Creative. One could say impressive. At the very least it weren't something she were expecting. "Most impressive. Better than the ship that I've got." she spoke, subtly referencing that she didn't own one of her own. "Have to say it is superior to Equestrian designs. Or even those awful guard carriages, peh, to think that they still use those old things and not anything of actual ship construction." she spoke with some zeal in her tone, indicating she was actually impressed by something. That was rare. 

Spectra would proceed to board the ship and gave Operata a glance. Jade Eye could perhaps sense her confidence in "owning" him, as she had clearly done something to keep him in line. Boarding the vessel, she would follow him respectfully.

(Magloria)

Magloria would only nod to what she was told. Sounded like Spectra fought someone horrible. Perhaps even more horrible as she herself was - though this was only because of her lofty pursuits for power. Nothing else to her mattered. Any good deed she did was never genuine - but for her selfish intent. Magloria was never that kind of pony. Nor was she a kind pony, either. Something...neutral, maybe? Magloria never really was an emotional type. At least, that is the persona that she would let on to others.

When Veil had gathered the mushrooms, Magloria would nod to her in a respectful fashion. She'd take a few bites. It was clear that she knew that these mushrooms weren't dangerous. Veil could hear her munching on them as they moved forward. Half an hour later, they'd find a river with clear open water. It looked peaceful. Magloria would bend down and lap up some water. She wanted to truly get her snoot wet, and drink right from the stream itself. To see such a powerful, yet equally calm mare do such a simple task - could almost be considered cute, now couldn't it? She'd savor the moment, before she'd actually dive into the river a bit and splash about. An unabated sigh escapes her lips as her eyelids roll back a bit. She didn't care how that seemed. Magloria wanted that moment for herself.

Her horn lit up blue and next to her - she'd form a small raft out of ice. It was elegant to see the form take shape in the pristine waters. It was made for two. Magloria silently looked to her, and formed two sets of oars with ice. Of course she'd have to renew this, but the river was on the map. It was a faster route to Sugarville, too. How nice of the elements of nature to provide them both with a scenic - yet convenient path.

Magloria motioned for her to board the raft, and once she did - Magloria would start paddling. The other pair of oars was a good indication of what she wanted Veil to do. Magloria's silence maintained the beauty of the moment. Perhaps Magloria wanted Veil to enjoy the same.

 

[Blitz Boom 3,921]

@Props ValRoa

(Klugetown)

On 2023-04-29 at 8:05 AM, Magloria said:

"Most impressive. Better than the ship that I've got." she spoke, subtly referencing that she didn't own one of her own. "Have to say it is superior to Equestrian designs. Or even those awful guard carriages, peh, to think that they still use those old things and not anything of actual ship construction."

"This here's just a provision ship You wouldn't forget seeing the real thing."

Not when it were in good condition anyway. Right now, it weren't amazing, but when it were fully repaired, and once again, he'd roam sky and sea alike, descending upon his targets from the deck of his ominous vessel. It were something that most would remember for the rest of their lives. In part because their lives would end up being awfully short right after that, if they didn't consider pledging a sizable, charitable donation to him, and his crew.

Basically he robbed people, and didn't much care for those playing hero. They were mostly just used as examples of what happened if he got displeased. Jewelry and coin bags tended to get loosened awfully quick after that. Though with his reputation where he usually roamed, it were rare that anyone tried anything, so most just surrendered anything valuable on them, rather than lose their lives. And if he were in a good mood, he'd let them keep some things. Nothing major, but still, it were the thought that counted, yeah? Heh.

"And Equestria's ideas are relics, just like their princesses. Investing in proper wood, and they'd have a fleet that could dominate the skies, but whatever. Least it makes business easier, unless the Coastal Guard shows up."

Truth be told, he sorta liked the Coastal Guard. Sure they were trying to fend him off when they happened on one of his *Charity drives*, but they were still making an effort. They had some style, their ships were alright, and they had some proper fight in them, unlike the lazy Royal Guard branches. They were still woefully behind, but like he said, least they were making an effort, and making sure things wouldn't get boring. Though they had a few members, that he owed a harpoon through the face of. Including that general Tidal Wave of theirs. For such a small pony, she sure were a giant pain in his tail feathers.

On 2023-04-29 at 8:05 AM, Magloria said:

pectra would proceed to board the ship and gave Operata a glance. Jade Eye could perhaps sense her confidence in "owning" him, as she had clearly done something to keep him in line. Boarding the vessel, she would follow him respectfully.

Jade Eye would like seeing this, as he did not like Operata. He thought the little music colt, where an annoying manipulator, who draped himself in a layer of purpose and righteousness, while being no better than the rest of the scum around here. Plus he hated his cats, and the feeling were mutual.

He'd return shortly, with a a small hexbox. A battered iron construction, locked up tightly, though right now, said lock had a key in it, and were ready to be opened up. And when it were, it would reveal a necklace. An elegant silver necklace, with an even more elegant piece of jewelry dangling from it. A disk, cut with a motif of a mare with long, flowing hair, dancing on a field. All in pure silver, with the hair being made in rose gold.

Then he'd raise it up, and turn it around, revealing that although this were thin and flat on the back, in the reflection of the silver, you could see movement in the light. What movement varied. The tip of a few sharp, pointy teeth scraping by for one. Another looked like blonde hair, flowing by. Nothing else showed for now. Just some flow, as if there were a river, though you'd only see something occasionally, and only if you looked closely.

"Heytzu Nidha. Or to some, the Bargain of the Flesh Goddess. Speak the phrase, and you'll pay the toll, for a dummy copy to take the hit. A liter of blood, offered willingly, and it ain't gonna be gentle. But what's that in exchange for your life, yeah? And don't go wear it when you sleep, or you might find those teeth coming through anyway, for a lil' love bite.

So, you see what I got. What you got then? You ponies seem to be are fond of gold."

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

 

(Magloria)

Veil were happy to see Magloria eat. She had gotten worried that the mare might end in problems if she just pushed herself, and didn't do normal things like that. Seeing her eat, were comforting. Less chance of her just collapsing from sudden hunger, which would definitely be bad. Veil knew some things sure, which included some basic first aid, but actual medical knowledge? No, she did not have that. She might be able to use a healing spell if she tried though. She weren't sure if she could, but... Probably? She seemed to have a mixture of odd magic now, so it were hard to say what she could, and could not do. Definitely something she needed to try at some point, as that could probably come in handy.

Getting something to drink would happen not too long after, as they came across a river. At this point, Veil had started to bite notice in something she had expected, but never much thought off, after what had happened to her. It seemed far more important to focus on staying alive and free for so long, she hadn't much cared to truly notice, but she did not seem to grow any wearier by their travel. Going fast or slow, even jumping over roots and the like, she did not feel any kind of fatigue. Something she had sorta guessed would be the case, as she weren't flesh and blood anymore, but it were still something that were odd, now that she had the time to stand and focus on it. Like back when she tried to feel her heartbeat.

She hadn't felt anything of course, and it had been hard to adjust to. She did *pulse* in the same way a heart should beat, which is where her emotions radiating out were from. But the frequency and feeling were far from the familiar feeling, and sound of a beating heart.

As she thought on this a bit, it appeared that Magloria had an idea, and had made a frozen vessel to traverse the river. A raft of ice, with oars. Enough for more than just her, which made it fairly obvious what the mare thought. No words were need there, and in a way, Veil expected she did not want to hear any either. She just wished to travel faster, and so, she'd board the vessel, grab the oars, and work on getting a rhythm going for this Were she as she had once been, she likely wouldn't have the physical strength to do a lot, compared to Magloria, but her current body were in the shape of an adult, and strong as one. She could follow troop, soon as she figured out the right timing and such, so the first few tries would probably be a little odd, until she found the rhythm.

As there were not much else to do, Veil would just focus on the paddling, and the scenery that passed them by, taking in the sights. She had been in that ugly, twisted forest for so long, then on to a mountain... She hadn't much actually thought of just enjoying the sights of nice, colorful nature again. Maybe not the safest - a wolf getting hold of a rabbit they passed, were proof of that - but it had a great beauty to it still. Something far better, than where she had been, which at least for now, made her appreciate the sights more.

She'd even get a visitor of sorts, as they paddled along. A bird would land on top of her head, seemingly curious. Most birds would likely just stay away, but there were some birds who were more curious than were wise, as they had little in the way of natural predators, and thus, tended to be bolder. Some even seemed to have an affinity, of greater curiosity, towards strange magic. One of them being what this were: A young phoenix. Male or female, she did not know, but she could feel the lean bird's warmth, and it's curious movements on top of her head. It stomping around, seemingly confused and testing the waters, so to speak. She'd get distracted for a moment, and almost fall out of her rhythm, when the bird would lean over, and look down on her mask, looking her in the eyes upside down. Then it'd peck at her mask a few times.

It were odd, but at least she did not seem to be scaring everyone, as much as she had been afraid of. In fact, this little one ended up not taking off yet, but rather lay down, on top of her head - where there were no wood, but just the magical outline and *magical fur* of her form - and roost calmly. She could feel it's soothing warmth on her head, and would do her best to not move it around, as to wake the young adult bird up.

She had not expected this, but judging by the warmer emotions, of joy, and foal-like wonder that pulsated from her, she certainly did not mind being used as roosting spot.

[Spectral Fade]

@Blitz Boom

(Klugetown)

To Jade Eye's quote about her seeing the real thing she would shoot him a slight devious glare - as if understanding what he was hinting at. She were sure she'd go far with such a vessel under her command. It were something that she needed to obtain at some point. She would be walking out of here satisfied with not only powerful armor, but also a dark blade as well. Why didn't she come here earlier? She'll probably want to stay here a good while. Spectra knew that it was a very hard place for authorities to get into without being uncovered by the various array of personalities here. She was sure that any attempts in the past had failed, and who would want to step into this mess? It'd be like marching straight into an angry bee hive and expecting not to get stung. This was her place, and she sure had the time and available funds to trade for practically anything.

"Equestria certainly holds itself back in terms of that. They have all available tools to become a fearsome force, but they don't. Feh. I'm not complaining though." she commented casually as they proceeded onward. Truly, she was no one to complain about that. It just made it easier for her. Spectra was no doubt confident in her ability to eliminate Equestrian guards if they came her way - but it was the private forces that Operata once worked for that would prove to be an issue. If she can truly defeat and absorb Malevolence's magic for herself, she'd probably be at least on equal footing. The only who concerned her the most was the one named Lava Plumage. Wouldn't be a pretty battle, that'd be for sure.

Upon being at the point where Jade Eye would get something to show her, Spectra would wait near to where he walked into - though she did not follow him in as a sign of respect. As she was waiting there, she wondered what Operata was up to. Hopefully he wasn't getting into trouble. If he was, she wouldn't hesitate to ring him in a bit and rough him up a bit. Shake him down, you know? Spectra knew that Jade Eye wouldn't mind watching that. He'd probably be quite entertained. 

As for the artifact in question, her eyes would fall upon it as he spoke to her about it's details. Certainly was something of interest to her. If this was something that could help her stand up to the Elements of Harmony and harmonic magic, that'd make all the difference. Even if it were only capable of lessening the blow - every edge counted. She were a Blue Mage anyway, it's not like anyone would know that she would be able to absorb magic and cast it as her own. Yet, did that apply to the Elements of Harmony and magic of similar power? The "absorb magic" part only worked if she survived the blast. That was the kicker. 

"Looks marvelous. A very rare specimen indeed to say the least..." she spoke with a look of Glee. This would be a great addition to her wardrobe - but she knew not to get too confident in her ability to defeat those who crossed her path. "Gold? I have something that should be of great interest to you, instead." she spoke. Her horn flashed green three times before a folder of papers would appear next to her. Spectra would reach down and grab it, opening up the folder as she levitated the folder's contents close for him to read. "This here, is various Equestrian state secrets I uncovered. Ranging from anything of recent Politician scandals, where their vaults are, that sort of thing..." she said with a leering grin.

It was something she got her hooves on before she crossed paths with Operata. These were the original documents - and she was smart enough to copy them multiple times over. It was her plan to find those of suitable intent to hand these over to. It didn't matter however cruel or indecent those characters may be. "I am sure these will be of great aid for your cause. I looked through them recently, and some of those precious vaults are located in Tampa Neigh and Maretropolis, areas you should be familiar with." she spoke to him, allowing him to look through the documents. If Jade Eye looked through them, he'd see that she was correct. These Documents were clearly for the Monarchy's eyes only.
 

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

 

(Magloria)

Magloria would not complain as she had seen Veil adjust to her rhythm of paddling. It was to be expected for her to not get it right off the bat. As Magloria paddled on, she would look off at their surroundings. The trees were full of color and the calm flow of the water spoke of the tranquility of nature that surrounded her. It had been far too long since Magloria has last seen the beauty of nature. For a mare of tactical intellect - she had to admit that her mind deeply longed for this. Even before she were captured by Spectra - she were completely wrapped up in her duties with no time for anything else. 

Magloria started to ponder that perhaps her predicament wasn't so bad after all. She now had nothing attached to her name nor any responsibilities than the ones that she chose to take. It would be very easy for her to board a train somewhere and retreat somewhere very far from the world's problems. Yet, she wasn't someone to walk away from her problems. This situation was far bigger than her after all. It could be very possible that the fate of the world rested on her shoulders - yet oddly enough, she felt no pressure. If she would simply stand by and do nothing, Spectra would be able to strike without anyone knowing what hit them. Magloria already knew what she wanted to say. All she had to do was find a place to say it.

As they paddled along, Magloria would look at her reflection in the water. It was a reflection of her mood - to gaze upon the gently flowing river. Playing back the various memories in her mind that lay dormant for many years, she realized that if she had taken any other paths in life she would have been long dead by now. Spectra would have never captured her, and she would have died over a thousand years ago with nobody to remember her name. But now? She had the chance of a lifetime, to reveal the truth about Spectra once and for all - something she would be sure that would be known for many years long after her death. Spectra were no ordinary crook. She was a truly ancient one that existed before Equestria's founding. Not many of that age remain. Even in Magloria's time, Spectra far preceded her own. 

After about half an hour of silent paddling her gaze would land upon a hungry wolf devouring it's prey along the shore. Such a sight elicited no reaction from Magloria. Nature had a sense of beauty - but that beauty was equally matched by it's brutality. Magloria knew that she would have to play the role of predator in her mission. She would not let anyone get in the way of her plans to expose Spectra for who she is. There were no indications that Spectra knew that she was missing. Magloria did not know how long it would take for her to notice. The mere thought of that made her pick up the pace ever so slightly.

Magloria would have heard the flapping of the young Phoenix land and roost itself on Veil's head. She appeared slightly stunned by this? Who would have thought that a bird would come up to them like that out of the blue and land upon Veil's head? Magloria couldn't help but give Veil a faint smile. Magloria wasn't so emotionless as she seemed after all. Perhaps that faint smile would show that Magloria wasn't someone who had ill intent. It were genuine. Magloria would say nothing, merely opting to let Veil enjoy the moment.

It would be a few hours before they'd arrive at the docks of Sugarville. The river came to a narrow point that bisected the small town - evidently showing that the river was used for navigational purposes. The icey raft by that point had mostly melted. It would be a strange sight that any onlookers would see. A well armored regal looking mare, with a strange traveling companion.

Now it was time for her to find someone to talk to. Magloria would depart the raft, gesturing for Veil to follow her actions. 

[Blitz Boom 3,921]

@Props ValRoa

(Klugetown)

On 2023-05-05 at 7:44 PM, Spectral Fade said:

"Looks marvelous. A very rare specimen indeed to say the least..."

"Ain't heard of a replica before at least. If the stories that it's really connected to some sorta god is true or not, I don't care 'bout either. I've just seen what happens if you're careless with this thing, and I've seen enough stuff to know that gods are real, and they're vindictive. How you think I got the arm?"

He wasn't talking about the jade arm, but the one beneath. A funny little punishment from the god that laid it upon him. Least he'd assume that's what the meaning of it were. Or some sorta poetic nonsense. Weren't something he much cared about. He had tried to plunder a place he apparently shouldn't have, and a vindictive little thing had repaid his greed, and banished him from the island.

It was annoying for a while, but he found a way around it. Made his curse, become his weapon, fully under his control. It had been part of what took him from lowly amateur looter, to notable threat of the seas and skies. And all of it came down to a simple act from an island god, to a deckhand of some nobody. Maybe he'd thank the god, if ever he found that island again. Then after that, he'd probably torch the place. It was a matter of principle.

On 2023-05-05 at 7:44 PM, Spectral Fade said:

"Gold? I have something that should be of great interest to you, instead." she spoke. Her horn flashed green three times before a folder of papers would appear next to her. Spectra would reach down and grab it, opening up the folder as she levitated the folder's contents close for him to read. "This here, is various Equestrian state secrets I uncovered. Ranging from anything of recent Politician scandals, where their vaults are, that sort of thing..." she said with a leering grin.

It was something she got her hooves on before she crossed paths with Operata. These were the original documents - and she was smart enough to copy them multiple times over. It was her plan to find those of suitable intent to hand these over to. It didn't matter however cruel or indecent those characters may be. "I am sure these will be of great aid for your cause. I looked through them recently, and some of those precious vaults are located in Tampa Neigh and Maretropolis, areas you should be familiar with." she spoke to him, allowing him to look through the documents. If Jade Eye looked through them, he'd see that she was correct. These Documents were clearly for the Monarchy's eyes only.

This next part, Jade Eye scowled at first. Some paperwork? What did he look like, one of those annoying spies? He couldn't use royal secrets for nothing. Frankly it just put him in a worse position to have that stuff in the first place, as it put an even bigger target on his head. Not only from the governments in question, but also the freaking consortium. And he had zero interest, in having to wonder when some sneaking little shadow-stabber, was gonna gut him, and steal this stuff.

It were starting to sound like a waste of his time, and his golden hand clenched some, causing furrows to go over the deck.

'But then, she kept talking, and mentioned the vaults. At that point, he got a lot more interested, and would accept the paperwork. He'd skimp over all the state secret stuff though, and not care until he reached the vaults. At which point, he's run a finger down the paper, and stop, at around a third down the list. A cruel, sadistic grin spreading on his beak again, while a dark light seemed to metaphorically light in his eyes.

"The Eclipse Vault. I've been looking for this one.

Heh. You got yourself a deal."

He'd close the box he had gotten with his other hand, and push it across the deck. It wasn't large, or heavy, but he were not gonna throw this. Might end poorly. The key would be in the lock.

He'd however, not stop, and would hand her the paperwork of non-loot related stuff, right back to her.

"Keep this. I only care about the vaults, not having some bullseye on my back, from the shadow creeps. And if you know what's good for you, you'll go sell it to them directly, before they get a whiff that you're holding it. Otherwise, you'll find a dagger in your back before you know it."

He knew his way around a fight,. More than a few frankly, but he had not gotten to where he had, because he picked fights with the wrong sorts. And those types could kill you before you even realized it. Best to stay on their good side, or at least not try and actively antagonize them.

"Anyway, you seem to know your way around some fairly interesting stuff. I'll keep you in mind, if I run into something special. Something that this dingy little town ain't worth looking at."

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

 

(Magloria)

While she had enjoyed the travel there, as soon as Veil had seen the town approaching, she would do her thing, to get out of sight. A small spell cast around her, would shroud her from vision and smell, as well as dampened her emotional waves to the point of being more or less impossible to feel, unless you were highly attuned to emotions. Combined with her paws not making a sound as she moved, and her not breathing, she essentially had to bump right into someone, to be noticed. Provided there were no changelings, but surely changelings weren't just suddenly widely accepted, to just wander around int he open in Equestria... Right? It were probably fine.

The shroud were reactively, and not proactive though, so a few might have seen her, before she seemingly shimmered from view, in a cover of glittering, rosa petals, that faded into nothing seconds after. Said petals - and thus spell - wouldn't just affect her however. She also used it to cover the phoenix. She wasn't sure why it were still roosting soundly on her head, but she hadn't the heart to wake it up, and quite frankly, liked having it there. It were a welcoming, warm feeling

She didn't want to get her hopes up, but she had heard stories in school, that sometimes, a phoenix would get interested in someone, and follow them out of curiosity. Princess Celestia's current phoenix, had apparently gotten into her household in that way. It were more of a rumor though, and she were aware that probably, the bird would eventually wake up, and fly off back to the forest, when it noticed where it were. Still, she could dream, and beyond that, enjoy it while it lasted.

"I'll follow, and stay out of sight."

This would be the last thing she said, as they would move even closer to the town.

Magloria should probably not signal for Veil to move with her, as she moved off the remnants of the raft. She might be seen as a little crazy, for gesturing into thin air.

It were true that Veil could have just taken her chances. Move past her worries, and try to see if maybe, just maybe, the town would be willing to accept her presence. But this were a time for Magloria to try and get some help, and information. Veil being there, distracting the townsfolks, and potentially causing a riot, or some sort of confrontation, were not going to be helpful. So unless she were found out, or Magloria essentially ordered her to reveal herself, she'd just follow along silently, and try not to touch anyone.

[Magloria]

@Blitz Boom

(Klugetown)

Spectra would be sure to give him a bit of a cock-eyed grin. Something about her smile was un-nerving, to say the least. She was a rather strange mare - walking in here with all sorts of stuff while being all casual about it. Perhaps if Jade Eye knew the real story behind Spectra was, he would want nothing to do with her. He were lucky that she were here to trade for better tools of the trade so to speak. If she were here to collect more unfortunate souls to add to her collection? Perhaps Jade Eye might have been one of them. This strange necklace was something she wanted to test out to make sure it worked. Not something that she would do right now. Later. After she leaves.

She'd observe him read through the paperwork she gave him. It seemed like he was very displeased? If he tried to do anything - she'd definitely be capable of putting him in his place. Not that she was particularly inclined to do so. Jade Eye was someone she sort of oddly respected? Having such massive influence but not the sorry sappy morality to back it up. It were a welcome change. Then she'd witness as he was pleased with her revealing the location of the vaults to him. It didn't matter to her that the papers she had about various government secrets were handed back. She'll find someone else for that. No biggie.

"That's a deal, then. More Vaults are located within that folder. The Eclipse one just happens to be the biggest one. Who knows what's contained within the others? That's for you to find out." she stated, with a respectful bow. "If that will be all, I will be around in these parts for a little while more - incase you need anything else. I have some work that needs to be attended to." she said, sounding like she meant business. Spectra was promoting the image of her having a busy life - with much work to attend to.

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

 

(Magloria)

Magloria would silently acknowledge Veil as she cloaked herself. It were possible that some town ponies saw Veil's presence behind her on the raft but if they'd look again they would see the lone armored mare departing her ice raft. They'd probably think they saw something incorrectly, and otherwise go back to their business. Magloria would walk ashore and take a moment to look over the town of Sugarville. It was a quaint small village. Seemed like it wasn't that much of a farm town - more of a maretime community focused around the river. 

She'd take a moment to walk up to the nearest map she can find - in the center of the town. It was something they had put here for woeful travelers to plan their journeys. Many came here on boats, after all. She'd take a few minutes to examine the map. Canterlot was still there, but for the most part? Everything else had changed. Most of the city names she were aware of in her time had been re-named to something else. Las Pegasus was once the city of Pegaron, for example. Many new areas seemed to be on the map as well - evidently showing how cultures, language, and society shifted. Ponyville was where she wanted to go - in order to find these "Elements of Harmony" as Veil referred to them as. 

At the very least, for now though, Magloria wanted to find someone authoritative to speak to. There were some guards about the place - and she'd proceed to ask them for where the Mayor or where the Royal Guard captain were. She did not seem too picky about who she'd be speaking to about Spectra. Just as long as the truth was revealed and passed along. 

 

[Blitz Boom 3,921]

@Props ValRoa

(Klugetown)

Jade Eye would smirk, and wrap up the papers he had been given. Minus the ones he had returned, of course.

"Nice doing business with you. Something tells me we'll cross paths again someday."

Especially if he managed to successfully raid the Eclipse vault. They'd never want to publicly admit to a theft on that place, as it were not officially real, but it would paint a mark on him, if he did pull it off, which he still needed to figure out how to do. Heh, this were gonna end up being interesting now, weren't it? He'd consider recruiting this one for his crew for the raid, but she weren't deckhoof material. Too independent, and her lackey would likely come along too. He supposed his cats could chase rats around the ship, but he still preferred his regular methods of sorting that.

Sides, you didn't end up a deckhoof, or a pirate, by being well off. You tended to do that, when you had little other options, and your morals had a price. Sure he were well off, but he had also been a pirate for a long time, and he hadn't a bit to his name back then. Funny what a curse could do, to change your fate sometimes. A little anger, a bit of mutiny, and things started to slowly look up. A lotta hard work though. Hard, blood-soaked work. But that were just the price of staying in business sometimes.

"Hey. If you're looking for the consortium, to sell off those papers? Get to the freak. He pretty much got a way to get hold of anyone round here."

His eyes would narrow suddenly, and he'd look behind Spectra at someone. By the time she'd turn around though, if she cared to look, whoever it were, seemed to be gone. Likely blended into the crowd.

Anyway, seemed they were done, so once she were off his dingy, he'd go under deck, and stash these papers up properly. As well as prepare a few things. Whom he saw, meant that a certain someone were gonna come around here soon. He didn't like it, but sometimes you set the tone for the deal, and other times, the deal would be forced on you, if you liked it or not. This were one of those cases. Freaking oversized, magic-hoarding bloody lizard...

When Spectra were on the ground, and him nowhere in sight anymore, Operata thought that it were safe enough to speak again. Frankly he didn't much care to be treated like this, but it weren't like he had much of a choice in the matter. Spectra could do harsh things, and Jade Eye would've turned him to pyrite, or stabbed him. He were a small pebble in that situation.

"That is one deal down it seems. Where then, would you want to proceed to?"

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

 

(Magloria)

She wouldn't have to look around for long, to find a guard. As one of the outskirt towns, they didn't have any of the actual royal guards here though, but rather a local police force. They still technically counted under the guards though, and had to wear the uniform, albeit with a badge. Some legal mumbo jumbo stuff, that were the reason for this distinction. Most who wore this, didn't much care for the minor details. In their eyes, they were part of either of the two main guards, unless of course, you got closer to the ocean. All of those towns, were populated and protected, by members of the Coastal Guard. And if this town were near the ocean, so too would it be one of those here, recognizable by their blue armor, and tridents.

This town, were mostly Solar Guards, and then one Night Guard, to keep watch during the night, just in case a bear tried to wander into town, and needed to be shooed away, or something like that. Happened often enough for there to be a need for that type of guard.

Anyway, the first guard she'd meet, could easily point her towards the mayor's office were. The captain however, she'd be informed she had to go to Canterlot, or the Crystal Kingdom to meet, with the latter being more likely, as his family lived there. Outskirts towns like these? Captain Shining Armor did not go to these areas, unless something went wrong. Nor did the generals, or any of the other high ranking members, such as Captain Crescent Sickle, of the Night Guards. Sometimes they'd get a sergeant, out to do some routine checks, but that were about it.

As for the mayor, she would be told to just go for the main building, but that she might want to try the market first. They usually went out for a cup of coffee and some blueberries this time of day, at a cafe near the north side of the riverbank. So it'd save her a wait to just go there.

Throughout this, Veil were secretly keeping a close eye on things, and how the town were going. It were odd to wander covered like this, around town, as she had to keep herself from talking, or bumping into others. It were going well currently, even though she sometimes had to do a circle around others, to get to Magloria. It seemed like a nice, quant town. A lot like where she had grown up, though that had been with less of a focus on a river, and more on local honey production, with vast flower fields, and fields of bee keepers. It were nice and calm. Hopefully it would stay that way.

[Spectral Fade]

@Blitz Boom

(Klugetown)

"I have no doubt that we will see each other assume. Good luck in your "Dealings"." she would speak with a rather unsettling grin before turning away, pocketing her papers. She'd walk off the dingy the same way she came. Spectra was a rather strange sort, most likely in the eyes of Jade Eye. A rather unsettling mare with too much knowledge about things. Who knows how she got it or what she intended to do with it. Likely nothing good.

Spectra didn't comment on or make any direct indications that she noticed where Jade Eye had been looking. However in fact, she did notice. It was possible that she were being followed or observed by someone. For what purpose, she hadn't a clue. The more paranoid side of her would tell her that she was being observed by the same forces who were wanting to take her down previously. If that was the case, she'd honestly rather do something more extreme than end up captured. She had a way for it as a last resort...oh boy, would that not be pretty if it came to it. Spectra would never tell anyone about it.

Spectra took her time walking down the ramp, and would turn to Operata once she saw him. "I believe I have another deal to make with Gronth, and to also see if what I wanted is ready." she spoke, right to the point. And away she'd walk to Gronth - with that new necklace on her neck. It was a symbol of pride in her view. The armor and the blade would be something to accentuate it, and boy, did she have the ability to get more. Those state secrets? It took her quite a long time, and quite some effort to get. Nearly dying multiple times, almost getting caught, having to escape at the last second...she better find something worthy of value for those. 

Something more permanent than merely a weapon or a tool to be wielded. Perhaps a body modification or some biological enhancement. Something along those lines....

(Magloria)

Magloria would thank the guard and speak to him further. "I am a traveler, one could put it that way. I am in possession of knowledge that is of grave importance to your town. You see, up in the mountains is a spot that has been hollowed out and used as a lair for a malevolent pony known as Spectral Fade. She is responsible for the abduction of dozens, if not hundreds of ponies and using them as living batteries to fuel her magical power. I was her first victim, over a thousand years ago." she spoke to him, in an ominous that indicated she was quite serious.

"Follow me to the Mayor, I want you to be aware of the details and pass it along. Send letters. Contact the Guard Captain. Pass the word far and wide. This is absolutely urgent." she spoke, as she began to lead the way to the market. Her Crystal Armor shaking somewhat as she walked, evidently taking a stride similar to a soldier. Magloria were certainly a mare who knew her stuff. Perhaps even better than these local police guard. They would be wiped out by Spectra in mere seconds if she decided to come here, Magloria were sure of it.

"My name is Magloria. I look forward to working with your mayor on getting the word spread about this grave danger." she'd speak in a formal fashion - it was the first time Veil heard her name. Magloria was intent on going to the market to meet with the Mayor as soon as possible, asking that the guard point them out if they are spotted. Magloria definitely had the aura of a serious pony who made no room for small talk.

The two of them were so similar. Spectra and Magloria. Down to business - but for completely different reasons. 

 

[Blitz Boom 3,921]

@Props ValRoa

(Klugetown)

"It have not been more than twenty minutes, so I imagine he may well still be in negotiations about your first deal. But I suppose, that it does not hurt to see."

He'd follow ,annoyed, and trying to hide it. He did not like that pirate, just as Jade Eye did not like him. They were clashing too much, and normally, Operata could likely have stood up for himself a little, rather than just take the abuse. But he were disarmed, lacked his cats, and were on a tight, metaphorical leash.

Also, Jade Eye were more brutally efficient than one might think. Unless he could cause a distraction for a while, the bird would have wandered over and gutted him, before he could mount a proper defense. One did not get to where he were, without some blood being spilled. He did have the capacity to show mercy of course, for the right incentive, but he did not like Operata, and thus, he had nothing to offer. Not in favors, gold, or servitude.

As or Gronth, when they returned, they'd find that the store seemed closed, but voices were heard, behind the curtain. Their timing were most fortunate though, since as they approached, he would wander out, backwards, so that he could still address his guest, and holding his paws closed together. All eight of those that he did not use to walk with. Well, not primarily anyway.

"- assuredly. I will inform her as quickly as I am able, my lady."

Following him, were an elderly mare. Seemed to be in her late sixties, grey mane collected in a bun, and her tail cut knee-high, with wavy hair. She were wearing a night-dark kimono, with silvery stars sporadically added, and on the side, the symbol of a sickle, in the form and color of a crescent moon. Her wings would be on the outside of the kimono, and the ashen feathers, would be laying down, not indicating her want to fly currently.

She would move calmly, with Gronth making sure that he were giving her ample space to move.

"You do that."

Her voice were as calm as she seemed, firm and warm. The sort whose words were so crystal clear, that it were hard to mistake them for something else, as she spoke with you, but with a peaceful tone, befitting of an elder equine.

Operata knew better though, and halted, not wanting to get near this one. In fact, he would take a step back. And though the mare did not look directly at him, a small smirk did still pass on her face.

"It seems I do not have to wait long."

She'd turn, and look at them, slightly bemused. Her eyes wandering slightly over Operata, making him feel rather uncomfortable, and then landing upon Spectra.

"So you are our provisioner then? My my, you sure have fascinating tastes."

Operata did not say a word. Did not even open his muzzle to try. He'd stay put, and hope that he would not be focused upon again.

Gronth on the other paw, would move forward, waiting for a few seconds, and then speak up, whilst making sure to not wander too close tot he mare, that he might accidentally hit her.

"Krrkkht. What timing to have, I just finished negotiations, on your behalf, miss. I believe you will be most pleased..

But first, may I introduce you to Lady Astra Luna, of the Moonsickle Consortium. She most graciously decided to oversee this matter personally, and apply her vast knowledge to the proceedings."

She did not act upon his words at all, but Gronth would yet still say them. This were a mare of importance, and he would address her as best he could: With compliments, whilst not lingering on such things for too long. He knew that there were a balance, between him scraping to the ground, going too far, and showing his place with flattery, and notions of her superiority to himself. A balancing act, but one he were quite skilled at, with various beings. It helped to make his job easier.

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

 

(Magloria)

13 hours ago, Spectral Fade said:

Magloria would thank the guard and speak to him further. "I am a traveler, one could put it that way. I am in possession of knowledge that is of grave importance to your town. You see, up in the mountains is a spot that has been hollowed out and used as a lair for a malevolent pony known as Spectral Fade. She is responsible for the abduction of dozens, if not hundreds of ponies and using them as living batteries to fuel her magical power. I was her first victim, over a thousand years ago." she spoke to him, in an ominous that indicated she was quite serious.

"Follow me to the Mayor, I want you to be aware of the details and pass it along. Send letters. Contact the Guard Captain. Pass the word far and wide. This is absolutely urgent."

"Ma'am, while amusing, I'd ask that you please do not waste the mayor's time, with wild claims without evidence. While I admit it is unique, things like that, does not happen in this area. And I've been here for years. If there were anything indicating that there were a threat, either I, or some of my fellow guards, would have noticed it.

So unless you have something to prove that something unusual is going on, I must ask that you please do not disturb the mayor."

In fairness, she should have expected this. She came here and claimed that she were over a thousand years old, and that their little peaceful community, had a threat spanning at least that amount of years, that no one had ever heard of, and she would bring this forth, without any sort of evidence. This were the sort of thing that might be plausible near Ponyville, where the princess had dealt with many ancient threats, that had descended upon their town, but it had never happened here.

As for her armor, then far as he knew, that were just some cosplay thing. He hadn't seen armor like that before, and thus, didn't think it all that important. This far away from Canterlot, it wasn't all who had even seen a crystal pony before. Much less one of their guards.

The moment between the guard stopping to speak though, and something changing his mind however, would be measured in seconds. Magloria might even notice, or guess what would happen, as it were unfolding. Regardless if she did or not, she were unlikely to be able to mount a response, before it were happening.

"Something unusual... L-Like me?"

A quick, pink shimmer were seen, as Veil's disguise faltered, and she stood next to Magloria. The guard took a step back, eyes wide open, and reached for his blade per instinct. A response she had feared. As well as that of others around them, halting to see what were happening, and what this thing in their town were.

"I'm n-not her, but I've seen her. Been used by h-her. And I don't want her to be a-able to do to anyone, what she's done to me."

The guard looked hesitant, hoof stuck in the air, near the blade. This creature were... He could hardly describe it. The voice were feminine, and he'd think it a kitsune perhaps, like in the history books, but this didn't look right. This were some sort of abomination... But a harmless one, by the look of things.

His hoof went away from his blade, and his hoof would connect to the ground again. His eyes were weary towards Veil, as he felt a strange sensation of nervousness, rolling over him, from her direction. It were radiating along with movements from a strange, pink mass, in the midst of her being. This were an unnatural creature, but it did carry along with it, one part of nature. A roosting phoenix, sleeping soundly on her head.

Phoenixes were not known for just sticking around with cruel masters. Most were either wild, or followed those they seemed to think were interesting and kind enough, for their presence. This did not seem to have a chain, so perhaps...

*sigh* He knew not what to think. But this one hadn't attacked anyone, so he wouldn't do anything just yet. He could not well uphold the ethics code of his order, and still arrest her, just for the way she looked.

"...I'll lead you to the mayor."

13 hours ago, Spectral Fade said:

"My name is Magloria. I look forward to working with your mayor on getting the word spread about this grave danger." she'd speak in a formal fashion - it was the first time Veil heard her name. Magloria was intent on going to the market to meet with the Mayor as soon as possible, asking that the guard point them out if they are spotted. Magloria definitely had the aura of a serious pony who made no room for small talk.

The two of them were so similar. Spectra and Magloria. Down to business - but for completely different reasons. 

He would lead them towards where the mayor would be, as mentioned earlier. And all the way, they would have heads turning, though rarely were it because of Magloria. She may as well be invisible herself, for the majority of the walk. Most eyes, of those who did turn to stare, fell upon Veil. Others either thinking her some sort of monster, merely curious, or did know what a kitsune were, and were confused as to whatever or not this were one. A few knew of golems, and were pondering if this were perhaps a special one. All had their own reason to stare, yet stare they did, and whispers would wander across town. Depending on things, they might die out though. Sure this were a special sight, the likes of which they probably hadn't around here, but if Veil didn't do much, the novelty would eventually fall off. Probably.

For now though, Veil would hang her head, and wander between the guard and Magloria, feeling like some sort of circus freak. Had she a heartrate, it would increase in speed, due to nervousness. Yet all there were, were a defeated feeling, and the same nervousness, over what might happen. Though too, with a slight hint of acceptance.

"I had h-hoped not to show myself, but I j-just wanted to help. I'm sorry."

[Magloria]

@Blitz Boom

(Klugetown)

"Yes. It is paramount to see. To see that it is being done properly." says Spectra, her mind completely glued to the idea of securing this deal and getting what it is that she wanted. Nothing else mattered. If anything went south in this deal? It were possible that Spectra could use her abilities to persuade them in order to get what it is that she wanted. But she were a patient mare. She waited many years to get what she wanted. Well, if getting inside of a stasis orb and waiting a bit for whatever it is that she needed is her idea of waiting, that is. Operata obeying her word filled her with much glee, to be quite frank.

When they arrived, Spectra would take a moment to observe the store. She'd stop for a moment and listen to see if she can gleam anything of what was being said. Spectra overheard something, but didn't understand what it was that was being said. The context was lacking. For that, Spectra would walk closer and present herself to the mare that was before her. If either of them cared to look at her - they would be able to see that Spectra had a brown coat with a dull grey mane with various streaks of white and black. Her unicorn form, with the necklace she had gotten from Jade Eye to accentuate her form was on full display. On her flank was a cutie mark was a simple scroll. They were free to guess more as to who she was from her appearance. Appearances can be deceiving. It's why Spectra was so fond of altering hers.

Spectra's eyes and stance remained casual as Lady Astra Luna spoke to her. It was a bit...uncanny? One can say? How truly comfortable she was within these matters. Making deals and gaining some rather powerful artifacts in it of her possession. "It pleases me to meet you." Spectra would say with a light bow. Her eyes lowering momentarily as she took in Lady Astra Luna's physical appearance. "I suppose one could say that I have interesting tastes. It pleases me more, to see that you are agreeable with these proceedings." she spoke and smiled. Her grin was once again, uncanny. Spectra was a weird mare.

"Now then. As you both are here, already talking - I have something I'd wish to show you." Spectra would say with that leering unsettling grin as she'd pull out the government documents from various Equestrian sources she showed Jade Eye. If either of them looked - they'd see it was quite the real deal. 

 

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

 

(Magloria)

Magloria would keep her eyes locked on the guard's eyes. Her cold steely gaze was unaffected by what he said to her. It would perhaps be one thing if she were a mare who reacted violently, trying to convince him of her word. But she were not. She were silent - allowing him to see that look in her eyes to know that she were completely serious about what she were saying. Magloria was beginning to speak to the guard, "Believe what you wi-" before she was caught off guard by Veil revealing herself. Magloria would sigh, thinking that Veil was sorely mistaken for revealing herself. 

Magloria was pleasantly surprised however, by what transpired next. Veil spoke on her behalf to the guard. The guard would perhaps notice that Magloria initially seemed...annoyed? But then seemed to relent, with another deep breathe. However, her inexpressive nature was not something that betrayed her here. Her look of annoyance was slight. The control this mare had over the display of her emotions was something that directly contrasted Veil's propagation of emotions in a way that others would feel. Magloria's emotions were completely hidden - underneath that formal grandstanding and steely stares. 

"Good." Magloria would simply state to Veil, turning away slightly as the guard would lead them towards the mayor. Her armor reflecting the light of the sun as the onlookers watched the two strangers follow the guard. After Veil spoke, she'd look to her as she felt the emotions radiating throughout her from Veil. "Don't be. You proved my point. These ponies need to understand the stake at hand here." she spoke, her eyes narrowing slightly as she walked forward. She didn't look to Veil, but didn't openly scold her or anything else? Was definitely a step up from however Spectra and Mindstorm treated her