open Into Limbo: Worlds Collide

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

-Blu-

" shouldn't it be the other way around?" Cozy replied.

" you're an alicorn Cozy, it'll be easier to believe that you saved him and less questions would be asked. And besides. Blu made that part of the plan so he's alright with it." Alpha pointed out.

" oh... Okay." Cozy sheepishly.

" you guys go on first, I'll watch you guys here and move... On the other hand... We can use this royal guard as props." Alpha gave the unconscious royal guard to Cozy.

" i forgot being an alicorn gives me Earth pony strength... He's quite light...why didnt we even bother removing his helmet and look at him though?"

( all my fault i left that detail out sorry)

Cozy removed the helmet of the unconscious royal guard.

It was, " White Light!?" Cozy exclaimed.

(To blu he is the unnamed familiar guard he keeps on meeting on the castle and who escorts them once in a while.)

"? Starlight's personal royal guard? What is he doing here? He never leaves Starlight's side... are you telling me that....Damn it im going to kill that fourth waller..." her rage reverberates the atmosphere. 

" she is definitely connected to ponyville." Alpha murmured.

" damn it... The more reason you need to bring him in and be treated as soon as possible. He is our only clue to the whereabouts of Ponyville."

Cozy would gently carry Light and nod in agreement.

They rushed to the wall's and the guard greeted differently in return.

Spears and sword was pointed at them.

" HAULT! NAME YOURSELF!" one of the guards shouted.

" cozy would remove her cloak.

" I AM COZY GLOW,RIGHT HAND MARE OF PRINCESS FLURY HEART! ONE OF THE REMAINING SURVIVORS OF PONYVILLE. WE REQUIRE YOUR AID, PLEASE!"

She then presents the injure royal guard.

" i am with Sir White Light a Royal Guard assigned to head mare and grand mage Starlight Glimmer, And sir Blu, who is a resident of Ponyville."

The guards where shocked of the news, and an alicorn giving the message to them. What a weird day for the guards.

"Quickly! Aide our brother, and shelter the survivors!"

As they reach the gates, the doors closed from behind.

" Princess, you are all safe here. Protocols dictate we send everyone in the infirmary, please follow us." The guard in charge explained.

But just five steps were made every royal guard halted and saluted. It seems someone of great stature has arrived.

At first it was confusing because no one was there. But the one coming is someone above the sky descending towards them. It was Flurry Heart.

Cozy could only gawk, as she knows she is in trouble. One can tell as Flurry hearts usual look was distraught with anger.

Cozy would land and deeply bow down towards her.

" Princess! Please! Forgive me!" She shouted and cried.

" you have turned into an alicorn?... Why? Did you deserve it? Or did you cheat your way into one once more."

The guards could not help but mumble and whisper. To them they have no idea whats going on. But to Flurry Heart, who is filled with rage, could think a lot of things against her.

"SILENCE!"

" I will not make the same mistake AGAIN! My incompetence has caused too much for me to be forgiven, thanks to you... Never again!"

" I Flurry Heart, have judged Cozy Glow, fitting of Death as her punishment. Execution now."

Her horn begins to beam up her eyes starts to glow as her tears drop.

 

 

-Fuoco-

" i can't find Misty, everyone from our team hasn't come back yet and we still cant make contact with Ponyville!" Tiara lashed out of frustration.

She then sat down tired and worried.

"... it's just the two of us left..."

She looks outside from the distance and wonders painfully on what would happen next.

As they near the Crysta Empire Gruit ale would approach them.

" we are near, who should we send?"

"I'll volunteer" Tiara replied.

" then 2 more perhaps?" Gruit asked.

 

 

 

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

(Blu)

18 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" I Flurry Heart, have judged Cozy Glow, fitting of Death as her punishment. Execution now."

Her horn begins to beam up her eyes starts to glow as her tears drop.

Blu really considered what he was about to do, and really hoped it wasn't about to bite him in the flank, but he was betting that between the changeling cloak and Flurry not wanting to be seen murdering a young pony in front of her guards, he should emerge unscathed.

He stood between Cozy and Flurry, more symbolically than anything given their relative sizes, but standing on his hind legs would help a bit even if it was a bit more precarious than he would have liked.

Despite wobbling he fixed his gaze on Flurry, "No. You want her, you go through me."

 

(Fuoco)

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" i can't find Misty, everyone from our team hasn't come back yet and we still cant make contact with Ponyville!" Tiara lashed out of frustration.

She then sat down tired and worried.

"... it's just the two of us left..."

Fuoco let out a long tired sigh, "I watched my family die, you know, before I came here. There's a certainty in that, but there's no hope. Our team may be missing, but that means they may yet be alive, and in the mean time we have this village to save. We can stop, turn back, and look for them. Put everyone at risk to make certain of their deaths. Or we can continue, get these ponies to safety, and hope that they will one day return."

She looked over at Tiara, "I am sad that Misty is missing, I can only fear that she was abducted in the night. I understand that this whole experience is new for you all. You've never suffered loss of this magnitude or frequency before. I've lived it, and I hope to help as many of you as I can to survive it better than I have, so you don't end up like me."

 

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

As they near the Crysta Empire Gruit ale would approach them.

" we are near, who should we send?"

"I'll volunteer" Tiara replied.

" then 2 more perhaps?" Gruit asked.

Fuoco nodded, "I'll go as well."

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

Despite wobbling he fixed his gaze on Flurry, "No. You want her, you go through me.

"!?" Flurry heart was taken aback as her magic was absorbed by the cloak.

The guards at this point are still shocked at the actions of their princess.

As her magic nullified, the dust settled. The two made eye contact.

Her tears continue to drip and her breathing still heavy.

" Blu?" Her tone shocked and confused.

" GENERAL. Take note and spread throughout our kingdom that transpires here." Flurry spoke with resolve.

 " Blu, young hero of Ponyville. You have done great many a deeds. Utmost respect should be given to you, and everyone throughout ponyville should know of his name and respect."

" Cozy Glow, you have assassinated one of my guests, betrayed Ponyville, and worst of all, lost my trust." She spoke as she pierce her gaze through Cozy Glow. In return she could only bow down and could not look into her prince's s eyes.

" knowing this Sir Blu, you still side with her? Do you know the dangers she can bring?" She stared at him angrily.

" the only reason that you still stand, is because of the blessings you have from many important figure such as myself."

Her horn glows intensely once more.

" Please, give me a good reason not to kill her, if not step aside Sir Blu."

 

-Fuoco-

Tiara would listen but a bitter and angry expression leaves her face.

But she knew what she says is the truth.

She holds her tears and look down on the ground. 

She wouldn't reply and would stay silent.

This would not last as she would eventually stand up and sit beside her.

If ever Fuoco would look into her, she would intentionally look away. Eventually shed lean over her.

" ....hey..... Sorry."

She said without looking.

( conversation may continue if you want and the outcome may and can alter etc.)

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco nodded, "I'll go as well."

Tiara would glance at her. But wouldn't say much about it.

Gruit in the other hand feels something's up.

" hmmm anyway then I'll send Blitz with you. She is a pegasi who is proud of her speed. We can use her as our messanger to inform us of our next action. Agreed?"

( if so they would venture to the Crystal empire.)

Small talk would transpire between Blitz and Tiara. But Fuoco seems to give a vibe that is hard to talk with. But Blitz would try and break the ice between them two.

"Well anyway, it's nice to be with the heroes who saved us. And i can finally do my part!" She would carefully fly towards Fuoco.

" so miss Fuoco... Um if theres anything you need that is if its within my power... Id gladly help out. I mean you can rely on me! Is what, is what i wanted to say hehe." She introduced herself. She was a bit off and shy towards Fuoco, seeing that she thinks highly of her.

@Illiad Easle

Edited March 6 by Evil Pink One

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

(Blu)

10 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" Please, give me a good reason not to kill her, if not step aside Sir Blu."

Blu's expression hardened, "That you would execute her without trial or due process is reason enough. However, I'll give you 4 more reasons:

1. Cozy's actions were the result of manipulation by one she trusted. She believed she was acting in your best interest.
2. We're in the middle of a war, and we can't afford to lose any potential allies.
3. She has information on the enemy that would be lost with her death.
4. She owes me her life and I intend to see that debt repaid."

If Flurry looked sufficiently placated by those answers he would continue, "While her actions may yet warrant her execution, she deserves a fair trial. As now is hardly the time for a trial to be conducted in a fair and just manner it is in our better interests for her to be useful in the meantime, either in defense or in information. If you do not trust her for defense or to move freely, and given what I've heard I don't blame you, then put her under guard until such time as you do trust her, or a proper trial can be held."

 

(Fuoco)

10 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"Well anyway, it's nice to be with the heroes who saved us. And i can finally do my part!" She would carefully fly towards Fuoco.

" so miss Fuoco... Um if theres anything you need that is if its within my power... Id gladly help out. I mean you can rely on me! Is what, is what i wanted to say hehe." She introduced herself. She was a bit off and shy towards Fuoco, seeing that she thinks highly of her.

Fuoco raised an eyebrow, "It's good that you want to do your part, but be careful who you indebt yourself to. All I expect from you ponies is respect, not favors, not power, not obligation. If you fight, don't do it because you feel you owe it. Fight for those who deserve it."

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

the guards around her would mumble and question what is happening. betrayal? judgment? fair trial? question and discord arose.

but to flurry heart, all eyes are on her. their mumble is like a dagger through her heart. to her she is being judged, questioned or belittled.

this infuriates her.

she cannot make mistakes, for she is a princess. 

a word that curses her.

pressure builds up.

her judgement, in a noise.

she is but a colt trapped in the workings of a cruel being.

she seems to start to break apart. she may be standing atop of the thrown with her guards, but in reality she is alone.

before she'd give in to the darkness inside her heart, 

Scootaloo swoops down and hugged her.

she was too fast for anyone to react,. this gave Flurry heart a shock and snapped her out of her depression.

"my dear student... forgive me. for i have left you, betrayed you. i will not leave you again. we'll make it right again, bring back everyone."

"... teacher... "

her hug would then turn into a push.

" sweet words... i don't need it... but thanks anyway. i need to grow up and taste bitter r continueeality."

Scootaloo could only lower her head in sadness.

"Blu, then let it be heard! you are responsible for Cozy Glow for now on, her sin is your sin! And with that, we owe you no debt nor favor. 

" Cozy Glow, hence forth, you are a slave to Blu. He may do whatever he pleases with you."

She then walks toward Cozy and demands Blu to step aside through just her stare. If that wasn't enough to convince him to move the guards would force him, for his own good. 

She would proceed to give Cozy one hell of a slap enough to make an alicorn bleed.

" That is for betraying me."

Cozy would take the full hit and give no resistance.

" continue with the procedure. I will wait for you in the castle." she then flies alone.

 

-Fuoco -

Blitz's eyes sparkle in awe and inspire as she listens to her lecture.

"you are sooo cool!" Blitz is now more inspired than ever before.

( things here can be changed at anypoint and be interacted and disturbed.)

They would soon reach the empire and see that the coast is clear.

normal city, normal guards, nothing's burning, and no one's eating anyone.

.....probably a dud of an information we had. should we send Blitz back to call them in, or do we further investigate?" She asked. 

Blitz could not wait though as she was hyped.

" I'm on it! She'd zoom back to the group to give them the clearing."

" NO WAIT! damn... that was my fault Fuoco. i should've seen that one coming."

" uhh damn, well  i guess its best we introduce ourselves to the guards." 

as they approach the guards they would halt them for questioning.

 " who goes there!"

" i am Diamond Tiara!  from the family of Rich, from ponyville! with me is Madam Fuoco, from ponyville as well."

the guards were shocked as another survivor has arrived.

"quickly! Aide the Survivors inside the walls! give them proper aide and shelter! more guards would come out from the walls, not to attack them but to aide them in.

stretchers  and first aid kits were presented to them.

" please lay down, is there anything we can do for you? any pain or injuries we need to know?"

one of the guards asked.

" SURVIVORS!? "

they would not be answered as the guards priority is their safety and their immediate transportation inside the walls. 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

2 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"Blu, then let it be heard! you are responsible for Cozy Glow for now on, her sin is your sin! And with that, we owe you no debt nor favor. 

Blu looked shocked at that, as well as a bit indignant.

2 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" Cozy Glow, hence forth, you are a slave to Blu. He may do whatever he pleases with you."

His expression grew furious at that.

"Absa-bucking-lutely NOT!"

He was tempted to strike her himself, but settled for turning his attention to those present, "Show of hooves, who here approves of slavery? Because I don't. And I'm not going to stick around if that's how things are done here."

(You'll need to decide if Flurry continues as you planned, or if Blu's rebuke has any effect.)

 

(Fuoco)

2 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" i am Diamond Tiara!  from the family of Rich,

(Wasn't she the mayor of Ponyville?)

2 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" please lay down, is there anything we can do for you? any pain or injuries we need to know?"

Fuoco waved them off, "I'm unharmed. We're the forward scouts for our group, save your resources for those who need it. Starlight sent us to find and connect with groups outside Ponyville, and we've brought with us a group of ponies who need aid more than we do. They should be arriving shortly if they haven't been attacked in our absense."

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

flurry would glare at Blu.

 " why do you challenge me?" the insecure alicorn asked, angrily.

the guards on the other hand are confused on what to do, and would look at each other and waited for someone to do it first. 

as she waited, no hooves would be raised. her vision darkens as her mind and thoughts clouded her and whispers, " you are alone."

but before her thoughts would be engulfed by darkness, someone would pull her out of it. Alpha would put a hoof on her shoulders, and the other would is raised high.

"DO YOU SUPPORT YOUR PRINCESS JUDGMENT, OR DO YOU QUESTION IT?" she loudly asked.

the general would be the first to raise her hoof and the rest would follow, some would be hesitant, some would disagree, but they have a duty.

"the princess might not have chosen her words properly but i have seen Blu changed hearts, and his discipline can truly change such as cozy glow to a better pony. the princess actions tying her to Blu would help her sins be forgiven, and as well further make her a better pony, which i hope sir Blu agrees."

she'd quickly head towards Blu and whisper.

"this is the least resisted path. please, she is not our enemy and we do not want her to lose face. please let her have her win. if not then please not here. i am sure you'll win this argument, but is it the wisest choice to do? "

Flurry had a bit of time to think and was a bit frustrated at herself.

"well then sir Blu.. i hope that answered your question."

( if no resistance the slapping sequence will proceed and cozy would leave.)

 

-Fuoco-

19 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Wasn't she the mayor of Ponyville?)

(Yes but i think filthy rich is more known, hence she uses her family name status.)

19 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco waved them off, "I'm unharmed. We're the forward scouts for our group, save your resources for those who need it. Starlight sent us to find and connect with groups outside Ponyville, and we've brought with us a group of ponies who need aid more than we do. They should be arriving shortly if they haven't been attacked in our absense."

 As they heard what she had said, the guard rushed back in and returned with five others.

" tell us which path are they so we may assist them."

Tiara would give them a detailed instruction on how to get to them. meanwhile, the guard would suggest to hurry inside.

(if they choose to enter.)

inside the castle, special treatment would be given to them. food was prepared and the ward area was quite nice. a few pony would be seen on the ward.

actually just one badly injured guard was there, alone and unconscious. 

"stay for a while as we check up on you. a doctor will soon be with you."

(alone time at the ward)

Tiara would welcome the soft bed of the ward. it ain't a high class bed, but it beats sleeping on the ground.

meanwhile the unconscious guard would have a hooded visitor. her presence was quite a shock as she seemed to have came out of no where. 

Edited March 7 by Evil Pink One

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

Alpha would put a hoof on her shoulders, and the other would is raised high.

Blu raised an eyebrow at that, though his face showed disappointment.

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"this is the least resisted path. please, she is not our enemy and we do not want her to lose face. please let her have her win. if not then please not here. i am sure you'll win this argument, but is it the wisest choice to do? "

Blu did not deign her question with a response.

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"well then sir Blu.. i hope that answered your question."

He nodded, "Indeed it did. Enjoy your imminent subjugation."

With that he turned and left the way he had come, intending to leave the city. Given they were just five steps from the gates, it should prove an easy task. If the gates were closed, well, they would soon open for the new arrivals. (Assuming they both arrived at the empire from the same side, which I think is fair given how northerly the empire is.) Blu would simply walk out when the gates were opened to let in Fuoco and Tiara.

 

(Fuoco)

(This does assume quite a bit, I can rewrite if you want things to not happen this way.)

Fuoco would pay the blue colt little mind as she entered the city, though she would stop immediately when she saw not one, but two alicorns present (Again, since the confrontation was set just inside the gates). She seemed frozen, the emotions behind her eyes swaying between terror and fury as she contemplated what to do.

 

(If instead they enter through a different gate)

(Blu)

Blu would ask for the gate to be opened to let him out, citing that he had left something important outside that would be dangerous for anyone but him to handle.

 

(Fuoco)

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"stay for a while as we check up on you. a doctor will soon be with you."

Fuoco would nod, but was on high alert. Things seemed too peaceful here, too calm for all of the anxiety in the guards.

19 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

her presence was quite a shock as she seemed to have came out of no where. 

Fuoco didn't react to the hooded figure's sudden presence, she could have easily teleported in. She didn't know the customs here and was not about to risk sounding an alarm if nothing was apparently wrong.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

(Which would be the fun and best chaotic choice here.... Of course the one where they enter the same gate!)

Scenario=

As Blu said his part, the gates behind him would soon open giving him the chance to leave. But then he'd meat an earth pony stunned in her tracks.

There, Diamond Tiara would meet Scootaloo, Cozy Glow and Flurry heart. Her first reaction was joy as she saw familiar faces, but soon realize that something is wrong in this picture. Cozy Glow on her knees. the princess, crying and in anger, and Scootaloo in shock as she look at Tiara.

( depending on what Fuoco would do some parts may change and be cut off at any time)

" Diamond Tiara, You're alive!" She'd quickly give her a hug and noticed the earth pony with her.

" and you.... It's nice meeting you again."

At this point Alpha would like to continue to talk with Tiara but sshe has more pressing matters to attend to.

" please Tiara. Help me out abit. You've been the longest with the princess. Her heart is in turmoil and she needs all the help she can get. Cozy... Cozy can't help now please stay by her side for now."

She'd then run at Blu's side

" what are you up to Blu? If you won't agree to the princess's terms then Cozy would still be punished for her sins and you're just gonna leave her there?"

At this point, She'd even try to stop Blu on his tracks.

Cozy is still on her knees while Flurry looks at her, slowly boiling her head with anger.

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

3 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" what are you up to Blu? If you won't agree to the princess's terms then Cozy would still be punished for her sins and you're just gonna leave her there?"

Blu snorted, "It hardly surprises me that you would support slavery on top of murdering foals. But I had hoped there was something worth saving here. But no, this place deserves what it got, rotten to the core as it is. As for Cozy, if she is truly my property then harming her would be an attack against me, and would reveal Flurry to be a murderer and a hypocrite, two common traits for a tyrant, they suit her well. If she is not my property then Flurry is a liar, a third common trait for tyrants. In either case I'll have no part in it. I gave her an out, she could have locked her in a tower or a dungeon, but she chose this out death instead. I'm going to find somewhere to watch how it all goes down."

He stopped, and turned to face Alpha, "Actually, why don't I tell you how this goes down. First, Flurry executes Cozy despite her words because Flurry cares far more about revenge than being a good leader. The guards see that Flurry is fallible and just as likely to kill them should they make a mistake. They follow through fear and plot a coup. The enemy exploits this dissension in the guard, some fall in with them to secure their lives, selling themselves into slavery to save themselves. This city falls and everyone is subjugated. Flurry finds out that Cozy was telling the truth, and that she murdered her only friend over a misunderstanding, then kills herself out of shame after realizing that her quest for revenge lost her everything."

"I meanwhile will watch, and wait. Maybe she'll come to her senses before this all plays out and send someone to beg for my help, but know this: If Cozy dies, so to dies any chance that I will help any pony who follows Flurry."

He turned away again, eyes scanning the horizon, "I help those who deserve it, and Flurry does not deserve my help."

(Blu is far enough away and speaking softly enough that it would be difficult for anyone else to hear him other than Fuoco and Alpha being the closest. But if the alicorns have superior hearing then they might hear him too if they cared to.)

Fuoco only partially heard what Blu said to Alpha, but the words she did hear struck something inside her, "A... tyrant... alicorn...?"

 

Her eyes focused on Flurry. If Flurry struck Cozy, or acted too agressive towards anyone present, she would use her incapacitation song like she had on the alicorn in the Everfree, locking both Cozy and Flurry into an energy draining note while she struggled to figure out what to do next.

 

If Flurry calmed, then Fuoco would calm a bit too, but would still be especially wary of her despite having seen her before given the trauma she endured at the hooves of the alicorn in the Everfree.

Edited March 8 by Illiad Easle

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

4 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

hardly surprises me that you would support slavery on top of murdering foals. But I had hoped there was something worth saving here. But no, this place deserves what it got, rotten to the core as it is. As for Cozy, if she is truly my property then harming her would be an attack against me, and would reveal Flurry to be a murderer and a hypocrite, two common traits for a tyrant, they suit her well. If she is not my property then Flurry is a liar, a third common trait for tyrants. In either case I'll have no part in it. I gave her an out, she could have locked her in a tower or a dungeon, but she chose this out death instead. I'm going to find somewhere to watch how it all goes down."

" Then why leave her then?(cozy glow)" alpha asked.

" if you were able to forgive cozy glow why not Flurry heart! I know she isn't like this. What if she is also a victim like Cozy Glow? Why let her fall. I know she's good." She said defeated and torn apart.

 

Seeing Alpha leave her side was enough of a budge for her to think wildly.

" not so long she said she wont leave you, and yet there she goes." A whisper to her ears.

She stares at Cozy, and a chuckle arose her cheeks.

" looks like they left you too... Serves you right... Now you know how i feel." 

Cozy would not answer and continue to bow down to her.

Flurry heart was not satisfied, she even got angry. 

In her mind, she began to question. "Something was not right, why am i like this. I am still angry... Angry at her? Or am i angry... At me?"

Frustration and chaos feels the princess's head.

Her hooves uncontrollable.

She began to grab cozy glow.

" look at me! I want to see you miserable like me!" Flurry yells in pain.

" I'm sorry!" Cozy could only say in horror and grief as she sees what she has done, to her friend.

The guards in panic and disorder, as they do not know how to calm and ease their princess's pain.

Alpha would see this part and alarm her.

"No no no no!"

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

9 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" if you were able to forgive cozy glow why not Flurry heart! I know she isn't like this. What if she is also a victim like Cozy Glow? Why let her fall. I know she's good." She said defeated and torn apart.

Blu snorted, "What part of: 'lock her up and give her a fair trial' indicates that I forgave her? I never said she was innocent, just that she deserves a proper trial, like you do. I said she was more useful alive than dead and that she might not be guilty, but that isn't forgiveness. Besides, forgiveness is earned. Flurry has acted as a tyrant and will be treated as one until she demonstrates that she is not."

9 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

Frustration and chaos feels the princess's head.

Her hooves uncontrollable.

She began to grab cozy glow.

" look at me! I want to see you miserable like me!" Flurry yells in pain.

Blu motioned, "See? It's already started. Flurry is too concerned with revenge to even let her own stated punishment stand because it didn't have the effect she wanted."

Blu would continue, but Fuoco started to play, hijacking the alicorns' throat nodes with the same simple ostinato that she had used on the alicorn in the Everfree. As it would draw all of the alicorns' magic into itself, making the song self sustaining within them, it would undo any magic effects that either alicorn was keeping active, like protection spells or control spells. Given there were two of them, even if one managed to stop the other would cause it to start again, and so close together it would also drain any active magic cast on them. Should an alicorn hear it or any others with a developed throat node, say, through mental projection, they would also fall under its effect, though Fuoco would be unaware.

The side effect being that Fuoco would have to keep her throat node closed until the alicorn collapsed, meaning that she couldn't use any other magic while the alicorn was incapacitated.

Unlike the previous occasion though, Fuoco didn't have a group to back her up, no plan beyond disabling the attacking alicorn, the reactions of those around her would determine what happened next.

Blu was surprised by the development, "Well shoot, if I knew alicorns could be disabled by sound... maybe this will play out differently."

He stopped his departure to watch what came next.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

@Illiad Easle

The princess began to choke  and weaken. Cozy would feel it too but she seems to be more worried about Flurry heart rather than herself.

".. W- whats t-the... Meaning..of this?" The confused and in pain princess asked.

Diamond Tiara would know. 

"sister stop! What you're doing is dangerous!" She accidentally called Fuoco. And she does have a point.

Alpha who easily picked up what was going on would try to intercept Fuoco. But it seems that Diamond Tiara would suddenly block her.

" what are you doing! I asked you to help the princess!" Alpha questioned tiara's actions.

" i know, let me handle it." She replied.

At this point the guards would sooner or later pick up whats going on and would start to point there weapons at them.

" halt! Whatever you're doing stop! Assaulting the princess is a grave offense!"

And while they were distracted, beneath Fuoco's shadow. a hooded mare would come out of it and proceed to stab her with a large needle. More likely on her foot, as it would be the nearest target.

Its aim is to stab her and not kill her.

Everything happened so fast that they couldn't react on time. 

Not only that, but inside the walls smoke began to rise. And a hew of orange and red is seen inside the walls. 

Fuoco would know what it is.

Fire.

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-03-08 at 5:14 PM, Evil Pink One said:

"sister stop! What you're doing is dangerous!" She accidentally called Fuoco. And she does have a point.

Fuoco shook her head, "I can't stop it. And they won't be harmed. Once they pass out it will stop."

On 2024-03-08 at 5:14 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" halt! Whatever you're doing stop! Assaulting the princess is a grave offense!"

Seeing weapons pointed at her triggered something within Fuoco, the fire within her rising, "I had to stop them before they could hurt anyone. And I did. They will emerge unharmed, and so long as they do not threaten anyone the lesson will not need to be repeated."

She moved into a defensive position. While she wasn't a good fighter she was pretty fast on her hooves when it came to dodging.

"If some mage here can deafen them, that will also stop it."

On 2024-03-08 at 5:14 PM, Evil Pink One said:

And while they were distracted, beneath Fuoco's shadow. a hooded mare would come out of it and proceed to stab her with a large needle. More likely on her foot, as it would be the nearest target.

Its aim is to stab her and not kill her.

(This will depend on which side of Fuoco her shadow is. If her shadow is behind her, then this will work, but if her shadow is in front of her she will be able to dodge given she is on alert.)

On 2024-03-08 at 5:14 PM, Evil Pink One said:

Fuoco would know what it is.

Fire.

Fuoco's attention was more on the guards, though she would move to retreat, "We have to warn the others, they aren't safe here."

 

Blu, watching from outside, would simply nod, "Yeah, there it is. Happened much faster than I thought."

He again turned to put some distance between himself and the fire, I'm not in a position to fix the societal faults caused by ineffectual leaders. Once it all burns down maybe I can help rebuild a better society out of what remains."

Blu would look for some sort of overlook with a good vantage point, close enough that he could return if/when things calmed down, but far enough that he'd have time to escape if things got worse.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

On 2024-03-11 at 12:21 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Seeing weapons pointed at her triggered something within Fuoco, the fire within her rising, "I had to stop them before they could hurt anyone. And I did. They will emerge unharmed, and so long as they do not threaten anyone the lesson will not need to be repeated."

She moved into a defensive position. While she wasn't a good fighter she was pretty fast on her hooves when it came to dodging.

"If some mage here can deafen them, that will also stop it."

Tiara would block the guards way.

" she is!... she is saving the princess! Do not harm her!"

In return the guards would halt their actions and question one another.

Soon the princess would drop down and fall unconscious.

" uuu.... She put them to sleep!" She added.

Alpha would check on the princess's

" they're asleep. Do not worry."

 She'd then close in on Tiara and Fuoco.

"You two better know what you're doing."

On 2024-03-11 at 12:21 PM, Illiad Easle said:

This will depend on which side of Fuoco her shadow is. If her shadow is behind her, then this will work, but if her shadow is in front of her she will be able to dodge given she is on alert.)

(They headed north and i think equestria rise and fall from west to east and its near sundown. Probably from the side)

On 2024-03-11 at 12:21 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Blu would look for some sort of overlook with a good vantage point, close enough that he could return if/when things calmed down, but far enough that he'd have time to escape if things got worse.

(He'd probably see the shadow assailant, or react to it since he knows Lyra or Shallow use this skills etc.)

The assailant would strike at her right side. And when she tried to evade Shadow tentacles would try  to grab ahold of her.

Alpha was quick to notice and trued to strike down the one stalking at the shadows.

She was only able to damage the cloak, revealing an infected Lyra.

This alarmed both Tiara and Alpha.

As soon as she was revealed. She quickly hid inside her own shadow.

Alpha would rush towards the alicorn and carry them through the air.

"don't let them capture the princess!"

As soon as she got airborn, something painful felt on her neck. As she looks at what the cause, it was Flurry Heart biting down her neck.

She was at a lost.

"BLU!!!" She yelled at him. Her eyes was filled with determination and was ready to face death.

@Illiad Easle

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-03-17 at 8:59 PM, Evil Pink One said:

The assailant would strike at her right side. And when she tried to evade Shadow tentacles would try  to grab ahold of her.

Fuoco acted quickly, once the alicorns were asleep she could open her throat node again, and with a shrill whistle a ring of fire dispelled all the shadows in her vicinity. 

She would move out of the city walls where the only shadow near her would be her own, so as to minimize the shadowmancer's avenues for attack, and to continue with her goal of stopping the refugees from being brought into the city, given it was growing more and more clear that this place had been breached.

 

On 2024-03-17 at 8:59 PM, Evil Pink One said:

"BLU!!!" She yelled at him. Her eyes was filled with determination and was ready to face death.

Blu snorted as he set up his weapon, everything had happened as he had predicted, albeit at a much faster timeframe than he had expected. Cleary this place had already been infiltrated, and he had been right not to trust what looked like too pristine a setup. How much of it was just a facade remained to be seen.

 

Nonetheless, he wasn't about to watch as someone he had denounced as a tyrant killed the one he was looking forward to bringing to proper justice.

He prepared his weapon, the range was closer, and due to the lack of time the shot would be less powerful than when he had killed the previous alicorn. He was also going for a body shot this time to increase the chance of hitting the moving target, depending on how still Alpha could hold.

But, given Flurry was smaller than the previous alicorn, and drained by Fuoco's trap, even a reduced power body shot could prove fatal.

Against all Tyrants...

Blu took the shot, and hoped his perception of the situation was correct. He was aiming for Flurry, center of mass. The bullet passing through Alpha in the process was likely, but acceptable given how easily she seemed to recover from injuries.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

Blu took the shot, and hoped his perception of the situation was correct. He was aiming for Flurry, center of mass. The bullet passing through Alpha in the process was likely, but acceptable given how easily she seemed to recover

Shots fired. Blood, dripping.

Body's falling.

Blank is the eyes of Alpha, while Flurry heart is convulsing.

The shot cleanly broke off Alpha's wings and dropped off of her. But it turned into a solid mass that resembles a sword designed like a blade.

( since the main target was flurry, im sure cozy wasnt hit.)

Tiara would try to run towards them and save the shot ponies.

But the 3 was already sinking into the void.

She could only manage to save Cozy Glow.

As she turns away and run toward Fuoco  the Lyra leaped through her Shadow to assault her.

 

Meanwhile on Blu's side. As she had finished his shot, someone would congratulate him.

" nice shot kiddo!"

Her hoof is already in full swing before Blu could properly react. He could probably block it with his weapon or his briefcase, but one things for sure, something is going to break.

Stab! A spear hits her arms.

" FffffaaaaAAA!!!"

A pegasi from the back thru it. Blu was not familiar of the mare.

And from behind an old stallion would order a charge.

" Protect FUOCO at all cost!" Make shift guards mixed of mares,  stallions, pegasi and earth pony, would charge towards the Castle; where fuoco makes her stand.

" you've got to be kidding! Plot armor!?" She cursed Blu and quickly went over the comic panel.

Meanwhile, the gates of Crystal Empire would release a horde of infected purple creatures.

Some of the guards who sees this would quickly run for their lives towards Fuoco's group; hoping for salvation on their end.

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

22 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

As she turns away and run toward Fuoco  the Lyra leaped through her Shadow to assault her.

Fuoco wasn't as stable on her hind legs, but she was well within her element here, standing and defending rather than escorting a retreat. Since she knew a shadowmancer was in the mix, she had been scanning the shadows more than the skies.

So when Lyra revealed herself Fuoco was quick to send a ball of fire towards her hooves. She didn't intend to hit her so much as to destroy her shadow. Fire had a way of making shadows fleeting and unpredictable, and few shadowmancers wanted to be halfway through a shadow when it disappeared.

With an erratic medley Fuoco danced the fireball around Lyra's hooves, forcing her to keep moving and eliminating any shadows that she got close to in an effort to separate her from Tiara and keep her from escaping.

 

22 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

Meanwhile on Blu's side. As she had finished his shot, someone would congratulate him.

" nice shot kiddo!"

Blu was lying prone as his rifle required, so he immediately rolled away from the sound in an effort to distance himself from the sudden appearance rather than properly dodge, 

22 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

Stab! A spear hits her arms.

" FffffaaaaAAA!!!"

A pegasi from the back thru it. Blu was not familiar of the mare.

And from behind an old stallion would order a charge.

Having been given more time to react, he'd ready his pistol as he moved to a better position, he was not equipped for melee combat, but it looked like he had his support now. Soon he'd be able to set up a proper spot, since it looked like he had more targets.

22 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

Meanwhile, the gates of Crystal Empire would release a horde of infected purple creatures.

Blu snorted again, "Yep, called it. A trap."

As he saw that the pink one was gone he set up to fire again. These targets weren't as apparently strong as the alicorns, so he could fire a bit faster by reducing the charge time. Still, he would prioritize the strongest targets, focusing on the aerial targets first. Once he got into a rhythm he'd be able to fire about every five seconds.

Meanwhile Fuoco would depend on her outcome with Lyra. If Lyra had not managed to escape, Fuoco would move to more aggressive tactics. Swapping the fireball for a wall of fire that she would sweep towards Lyra, forcing her to adjust course towards the incoming infected so she could fight both groups together.

If Lyra had already escaped. Fuoco could turn her attention to the gates immediately, pushing a wall of fire towards them immediately to use the gate as a choke point. Partly in the tactical sense in that they had to travel mostly single file so as to not get burned, and partly in the literal sense as the fire consumed most of the oxygen in the area.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

On 2024-03-25 at 2:30 PM, Illiad Easle said:

With an erratic medley Fuoco danced the fireball around Lyra's hooves, forcing her to keep moving and eliminating any shadows that she got close to in an effort to separate her from Tiara and keep her from escaping.

This would force The infected Lyra to back away, which is strange for an infected.

On 2024-03-25 at 2:30 PM, Illiad Easle said:

Lyra had already escaped. Fuoco could turn her attention to the gates immediately, pushing a wall of fire towards them immediately to use the gate as a choke point. Partly in the tactical sense in that they had to travel mostly single file so as to not get burned, and partly in the literal sense as the fire consumed most of the oxygen in the area.

Fuoco was able to successfully hold the infection and Blu able to gun down the stragglers with the Villagers who aided him against Madeline.

Tiara would finally reach Fuoco and or probably Blu and apologize.

" im sorry... I could only save Cozy..." 

A choice to press on or escape. Find new salvation or make one?

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco was closer to Tiara than Blu, and Tiara had no reason to go to Blu. Fuoco would simply nod as she continued playing for the moment as everyone gathered.

She would look at those who had arrived, "Do we have the strength to clear the castle?"

If those gathered responded confidently she would nod, "Then we advance. Stay close, strike true."

Fuoco would stay in the middle of the group so as to best defend or bolster as the circumstances required as they moved through the gates.

(It's unclear where exactly they are, whether they're at the gates of the Empire, or at the gates of the castle at the center of the Empire. I'm operating that they're on the outskirts of the city.)

If those gathered did not seem confident she would nod, "Then we retreat. Find somewhere to regroup and prepare."

 

Blu would move to follow depending on Fuoco. If the group moved to advance, he would follow from a distance, ensuring proper overwatch of the group. If they moved to retreat he would join up in the group itself so as to not be left behind.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

 

On 2024-03-27 at 11:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

She would look at those who had arrived, "Do we have the strength to clear the castle?"

If those gathered responded confidently she would nod, "Then we advance. Stay close, strike true."

Blitz would land on Fuoco's side; with spear on hold and yell, " YEAH!"

Gruit Ale on the other hand was out of breath just from trying to catch up, and is with the rest of the villagers with pitch forks.

While Kuya was leading the more well armed group.

" usually i am the meat head idiot who likes to charge for a fight.... But I've been humbled more than i could count within a week... And thats saying, comin from a proud strong warrior."

" We have Fuoco on our side. You're just sour because you aint taking the lead. We charge right Fuoco?" Blitz asked.

@Illiad Easle

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

On 2024-03-27 at 11:57 AM, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco was closer to Tiara than Blu, and Tiara had no reason to go to Blu. Fuoco would simply nod as she continued playing for the moment as everyone gathered.

She would look at those who had arrived, "Do we have the strength to clear the castle?"

If those gathered responded confidently she would nod, "Then we advance. Stay close, strike true."

Fuoco would stay in the middle of the group so as to best defend or bolster as the circumstances required as they moved through the gates.

(It's unclear where exactly they are, whether they're at the gates of the Empire, or at the gates of the castle at the center of the Empire. I'm operating that they're on the outskirts of the city.)

If those gathered did not seem confident she would nod, "Then we retreat. Find somewhere to regroup and prepare."

 

Blu would move to follow depending on Fuoco. If the group moved to advance, he would follow from a distance, ensuring proper overwatch of the group. If they moved to retreat he would join up in the group itself so as to not be left behind.

 

On 2024-03-28 at 7:40 PM, Evil Pink One said:

 

Blitz would land on Fuoco's side; with spear on hold and yell, " YEAH!"

Gruit Ale on the other hand was out of breath just from trying to catch up, and is with the rest of the villagers with pitch forks.

While Kuya was leading the more well armed group.

" usually i am the meat head idiot who likes to charge for a fight.... But I've been humbled more than i could count within a week... And thats saying, comin from a proud strong warrior."

" We have Fuoco on our side. You're just sour because you aint taking the lead. We charge right Fuoco?" Blitz asked.

@Illiad Easle

The group would charge back into the crystal empire gates! It was Equestria's time to fight back!

As Fuoco bolster them, they charged with vigor. Some of the guards of the crystal empire who flee'd, stayed and aided Fuoco's group. This is their home and family.

They easily got through the gates and into the  village.

A lot of panic and turmoil is happening inside the city.

Fleeing helpless civilians and panicked guards at a lost on what to defend.

Will they help here or charge further in and into the castle?

Helping here may increase their troops but would give time for the enemy to plan or escape.

Charging in might give less time for the enemy to escape or plan but is very risky for traps.

@Illiad Easle

 

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco quickly took stock of the situation and nodded calling out and pointing to specific members of the group, "You two, close and secure the gates. We don't want anyone ambushing us from behind. You four, secure one of these buildings. We'll bring anyone who can't fight back here. The rest of you move in threes and fours, clear buildings carefully and send any non-infected back here. Gruit, Tiara, you two are in charge of organizing anyone sent here. Anyone willing to fight put them in groups and send them out. I'm going to get on top of the building they secure so my music has as much range as possible."

She nodded, turning her gaze towards the castle. Something about it called to her, but she wasn't going to overextend herself to take it without a force behind her. "Understood? Move out." She started to play an invigorating tune, bolstering the morale of those gathered before following the four she had selected for clearing a nearby building, which included Blu, to bolster their efforts to quickly secure it.

She was hoping for a larger building, one where they could hold a lot of creatures unable or unwilling to fight so they could be more easily protected, as well as giving her a good vantage from the roof. Blu would also benefit from the higher vantage point to put his rifle to use.

[Evil Pink One 13,505]

2 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco quickly took stock of the situation and nodded calling out and pointing to specific members of the group, "You two, close and secure the gates. We don't want anyone ambushing us from behind. You four, secure one of these buildings. We'll bring anyone who can't fight back here. The rest of you move in threes and fours, clear buildings carefully and send any non-infected back here. Gruit, Tiara, you two are in charge of organizing anyone sent here. Anyone willing to fight put them in groups and send them out. I'm going to get on top of the building they secure so my music has as much range as possible."

She nodded, turning her gaze towards the castle. Something about it called to her, but she wasn't going to overextend herself to take it without a force behind her. "Understood? Move out." She started to play an invigorating tune, bolstering the morale of those gathered before following the four she had selected for clearing a nearby building, which included Blu, to bolster their efforts to quickly secure it.

She was hoping for a larger building, one where they could hold a lot of creatures unable or unwilling to fight so they could be more easily protected, as well as giving her a good vantage from the roof. Blu would also benefit from the higher vantage point to put his rifle to use.

Buildings near the wall tend to be smaller or at a point not taller than the wall. Hence a better plan was to secure a block rather than one building. If wanting for a high vantage point, then occupying a segment of the wall would be good and the wall can also be used as their safe point as that building is much more sturdier than the houses inside. 

( you know now that i think about it there was no walls on original crystal empire... It was just a force field made by cadence.... Well lets just say they made a wall.)

( anyway the outcome would be still the same wether you agree to the wall or not. It's effect/ consequences would be a bit far off)

Fuoco's plan would run perfectly. A lot of lives were saved, and the ponys gane much hope and vigor.

Cozy would eventually wake up and see the very busy and hectic scene of ponys scrambling and working together.

Tiara would eventually put her up to date  and was also ready to help.

" Blu ...sorry... What do you want me to do?" She eagerly asked.

As time would pass.

It seems that there is a point where a line was drawn.

The push and pull of each side would not move as Fuoco's invasion reached a limit at how far they can push.

As the territory they occupy grows, so too was the responsibility of keeping it.

It seems the enemy has seen it too and would not go any further.

Perhaps this is the calm before the storm.

One things for sure, both sides had the time to have a breather and rest.

Will this be the turning point?

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,123]

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco and Blu wouldn't stay at the top of the first building cleared, and would move deeper into the city as better vantage points were cleared by the rest of their forces. Blu would move to higher points with more commanding views of enemy territory, while Fuoco would move to buildings sitting more central to the controlled area so her music could have the greatest effect.

20 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" Blu ...sorry... What do you want me to do?" She eagerly asked.

(Assuming she was sent to where Blu was.)

Not taking his eyes off the target he had in his sights, he held up one of his rifle rounds with his magic, "Can you make more of these? Otherwise, I think you'll be of more use on the ground with the others. Maybe the flute player can use you? She seems to be in charge here, and unlike the others seems to be doing a good job of it."

If she could make more rounds for him like Starlight had, Blu would have her top off his ammo supply before sending her over to Fuoco anyway.

 

20 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

As the territory they occupy grows, so too was the responsibility of keeping it.

It seems the enemy has seen it too and would not go any further.

Perhaps this is the calm before the storm.

One things for sure, both sides had the time to have a breather and rest.

Fuoco wasn't ready to rest just yet, she had felt something as her group had approached the spire in the middle of the city. Something was reverberating her music, and she had a feeling the castle held it.

As evening came she sent out a call for everyone to regroup for the night, and prepare. She would meet with Gruit, Tiara, Cozy, and anyone with rank that they had rescued from the Crystal Empire citizenry and guard.

Once gathered, she would begin, "Now, we have a good hoof in the ground here, but unless we can clear the city our grip will be tenuous. I need ideas and plans." She would look around at those gathered, "I have felt something, some sort of magical artifact, in the direction of the spire. Does anyone know what that might be? Maybe something we could use?"