open Into Limbo: Worlds Collide

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

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."

Cozy would be confused at first and stared at the bullet.

She tried and took her a minute to make 1.

" like this?" She asked; as she presented a replica of the bullet.

23 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

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?"

Alot of people would ponder at the idea.

But Cozy was the one who was able to point it out.

" The Crystal Heart? Only Flurry Heart can use that..."

Everyone pondered on the idea too, but it seems impossible to them that the crystal heart is resonating with Fuoco.

Tiara would cut the silence.

" Anyway, resonate or not; we still need to take the Crystal heart out of the enemy hooves. Who knows what or how they might use that against us; especially when the have the Princess on their clutches."

A problem all on its own, it seems a primary objective has been raised.

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-04-03 at 9:52 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" like this?" She asked; as she presented a replica of the bullet.

(As Blu's rifle rounds are more accurately just tapered metal cylinders she might be able to make them faster than actual bullets, but she could just be out of practice)

Blu glanced over to inspect what she had made. Given it just needed to be a metal cylinder and small enough to not touch the barrel on the way out, the tolerance wasn't very strict. So he could test it without risking his rifle, though it did occur to him that he'd need to start conserving ammo if others weren't capable of making more for him. While he could make his own rounds for his rifle, it would take time and raw materials, meaning he couldn't fire at the same time.

"That'll do, try and get them to match as exactly as you can. The shape keeps it straight so it hits where I aim, and the weight is what does the damage."

If Flurry could make them faster with practice, Blu would allow her to stay, otherwise he'd send her off to help Fuoco, who would have her assigned to a group to gather and return survivors to safe shelters.

 

On 2024-04-03 at 9:52 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" Anyway, resonate or not; we still need to take the Crystal heart out of the enemy hooves. Who knows what or how they might use that against us; especially when the have the Princess on their clutches."

A problem all on its own, it seems a primary objective has been raised.

Fuoco looked intrigued, "A crystal? Hmm," she shook the thoughts away, "I think you're right though. Better it was in our possession, even if we can't use it. I'm thinking we send a small group, a grab and go mission. Do we have someone familiar with the area? Maybe one of the guards we saved? Maybe we could just teleport in, grab it, and teleport out? In any case, I think we push our advantage and try and take it tonight before they can fortify it, or realize that we're after it."

(The crystal ponies used the heart before Flurry, maybe a sufficient number of crystal ponies could purify it like they did after they got it back from Sombra the first time?)

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

4 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Blu glanced over to inspect what she had made. Given it just needed to be a metal cylinder and small enough to not touch the barrel on the way out, the tolerance wasn't very strict. So he could test it without risking his rifle, though it did occur to him that he'd need to start conserving ammo if others weren't capable of making more for him. While he could make his own rounds for his rifle, it would take time and raw materials, meaning he couldn't fire at the same time.

"That'll do, try and get them to match as exactly as you can. The shape keeps it straight so it hits where I aim, and the weight is what does the damage."

If Flurry could make them faster with practice, Blu would allow her to stay, otherwise he'd send her off to help Fuoco, who would have her assigned to a group to gather and return survivors to safe shelters.

A metal cylinder with the specifics Blu needed was made by Cozy glow per minute. Her time of crafting it varies to that and would not improve.( what bullet is she making? For the pistol or for the magical railgun?)

 

4 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco looked intrigued, "A crystal? Hmm," she shook the thoughts away, "I think you're right though. Better it was in our possession, even if we can't use it. I'm thinking we send a small group, a grab and go mission. Do we have someone familiar with the area? Maybe one of the guards we saved? Maybe we could just teleport in, grab it, and teleport out? In any case, I think we push our advantage and try and take it tonight before they can fortify it, or realize that we're after it

" the crystal heart is at the center of the empire; which is located at the castle. Im sure our enemies have already fortified that area already."

One of the guards answered.

A ruckus would ensue as others would question and make their own suggestions.

Cozy on the other hand would speak up.

" me and Flurry heart would usually escape the castle through the sewers. that place isnt heavily guarded as we've been using that way for a long time and was not caught by the guards."

"Hmm?" Tiara stared at Cozy in disbelief.

" this is the first time I've heard of this. What other mischief's have you and the princess been up to huh?"

Cozy smiled for a bit before her guilt would crawl back again and remind her of her stupidity; her smile and giggle quickly turned to dread and frown.

Tiara has putted everyone in an awkward situation and she knows it.

" um... Anyway... The sewers then?

Maybe we can make an assault above so they wouldn't notice the one going through the sewers?" Tiara suggested.

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

16 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

( what bullet is she making? For the pistol or for the magical railgun?)

(The railgun, which I've referred to as his rifle.)

 

16 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" um... Anyway... The sewers then?

Maybe we can make an assault above so they wouldn't notice the one going through the sewers?" Tiara suggested.

Fuoco shook her head, "They'll likely tighten security if they feel threatened. I think it would be best if the team to recover the heart does so fully secretly, so that the enemy has no indication that we're trying something until it is already done. It would be best if at least one in the group can teleport back in case something goes wrong or once they have the heart. That being said, we can prepare to start an attack if further intelligence suggests it would be useful, but I think the main body of our forces should rest as much as they can before we resume our efforts in the morning. Whether we're successful in securing the heart or not tonight, we want to take the castle itself as well as soon as we can. It will be much more defensible than our current situation and easier to spread out from."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2024-04-08 at 7:18 AM, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

(The railgun, which I've referred to as his rifle.)

 

Fuoco shook her head, "They'll likely tighten security if they feel threatened. I think it would be best if the team to recover the heart does so fully secretly, so that the enemy has no indication that we're trying something until it is already done. It would be best if at least one in the group can teleport back in case something goes wrong or once they have the heart. That being said, we can prepare to start an attack if further intelligence suggests it would be useful, but I think the main body of our forces should rest as much as they can before we resume our efforts in the morning. Whether we're successful in securing the heart or not tonight, we want to take the castle itself as well as soon as we can. It will be much more defensible than our current situation and easier to spread out from."

 everyone looked at each other in the room with confusion; and cozy glow would be the one to brake it to her.

" um... Fuoco... even with my powers, not everyone can easily teleport... all through-out the history of Equestria; only twilight sparkle and head mistress Starlight Glimmer, were able to master that spell."

" although we've seen others do it in a way, but in a lesser and different kind of way? " blitz questioned.

 

" some can teleport materials, but the crystal heart is quite big." tiara added, as she ponder at the idea.

" then if teleportation is not the answer to our solution, then the next best thing would suffice." gruit ale recommended.

 

" i can go stealth." kuya volunteered.

everyone looked in confusion, as to what kuya proposed to do. him, stealth? it was quite unbelievable.

" please, your bragging would give us a way in a second; you're probably giving away our location as we speak." Blitz scolded Kuya.

" hey, there's a lot of things you don't know about me, you'd be surprise at what i can do!" he bragged.

blitz would just give a questioned frown towards him.

" No. i suggest speed! i can do it!" 

 

" says the clumsy pegasi...." kuya bantered.

the hot headed pegasi would charge at Kuya; pining him down on the floor; but her punches has no effect on a strong stallion.

kuya would easily shove her off and would not whish to continue the fight and wait for someone else to stop her.

@Illiad Easle

 

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-04-09 at 5:55 PM, Evil Pink One said:

 everyone looked at each other in the room with confusion; and cozy glow would be the one to brake it to her.

" um... Fuoco... even with my powers, not everyone can easily teleport... all through-out the history of Equestria; only twilight sparkle and head mistress Starlight Glimmer, were able to master that spell."

" although we've seen others do it in a way, but in a lesser and different kind of way? " blitz questioned.

 

" some can teleport materials, but the crystal heart is quite big." tiara added, as she ponder at the idea.

" then if teleportation is not the answer to our solution, then the next best thing would suffice." gruit ale recommended.

Fuoco looked a bit incredulous, and more than a little disappointed, "Seriously? Our enemies can use portals, teleport, and walk through shadows, and we don't have a single pony who can do anything like that?"

She shook her head, muttering something about codas, "Regardless, we'll play the instruments we have. If we have no teleportation the team will just need to be more careful."

On 2024-04-09 at 5:55 PM, Evil Pink One said:

" says the clumsy pegasi...." kuya bantered.

the hot headed pegasi would charge at Kuya; pining him down on the floor; but her punches has no effect on a strong stallion.

kuya would easily shove her off and would not whish to continue the fight and wait for someone else to stop her.

Fuoco wasn't happy, "Break it up, both of you. We're not getting anywhere with infighting."

She turned her attention to the rest of the group, "Let's send several groups then, if they're not expecting one attack they won't expect multiple. Blitz can lead one group for a fast strike, and if they can't penetrate the castle they will serve as a diversion for Kuya's group. Then Cozy can lead a third group go through the sewers and enter the castle from below. Who do we have available to fill out the groups? I'm thinking three to five ponies each, depending on what the leaders think."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco looked a bit incredulous, and more than a little disappointed, "Seriously? Our enemies can use portals, teleport, and walk through shadows, and we don't have a single pony who can do anything like that?"

 Fuoco awakened Tiara's inner teacher and started to explain to her.

" as you and Blitz have pointed out and asked about the situation. Yes our enemies do have the ability to move one place to another, and yes Blitz; they do it in a lesser and different kind of way that is easier for them to manipulate. The difference between a teleport and the rest is, Teleport does not require you to travel. You simply are there. 

"For instance the other's technic require you to enter something travel inside it then head outside the other way, take note that this way is easier than teleporting; but isn't easily pulled of either, hence not everyone can go inside their shadows and move inside that realm. They can still end up getting trapped there or get delayed from their exit, depending of the medium they used to travel.

On the other hand teleporting instantly puts you to a place where you want to be without traveling.

Hence it is impossible to detect someone teleporting to a specific spot.

Its dangers though is calculating where you land. A mis calculation of visualizing where you want to be can cost one's life. 

Hence them moving can be detected and interacted with. But teleportation you cannot. But if you know where the person teleports place something there without them noticing can kill them. 

So each has its own pros and cons in the uses of this different kinds of magic and its difficult in uses."

The rest of the creatures in the room began to applaud the teacher. 

Tiara didn't notice her blabbering made an audience and blushed in embarrassment.

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

She turned her attention to the rest of the group, "Let's send several groups then, if they're not expecting one attack they won't expect multiple. Blitz can lead one group for a fast strike, and if they can't penetrate the castle they will serve as a diversion for Kuya's group. Then Cozy can lead a third group go through the sewers and enter the castle from below. Who do we have available to fill out the groups? I'm thinking three to five ponies each, depending on what the leaders think."

" then I'll take the abled pegasi to the sky! Dive in full speed ahead! Who needs stealth when you have speed!"

Blitz replied with bravery.

 

"I can do it alone no sweat."

Kuya replied with confidence.

 

" i suppose I'll need someone who's good at tight spaces... And doesn't mind the sewers... I wish Shallow was with us..."

Cozy replied with worry.

"I suppose me and lady Tiara, will be staying put in the base." Gruite ale recommended.

It seems the plan is moving along.

@Illiad Easle

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

On 2024-04-14 at 3:52 PM, Evil Pink One said:

Tiara didn't notice her blabbering made an audience and blushed in embarrassment.

Fuoco wasn't really paying attention to the explanation other than noting that it was different from what she had been taught. Fuoco again wished she had studied that lesson better, as it would have been very useful here.

On 2024-04-14 at 3:52 PM, Evil Pink One said:

"I suppose me and lady Tiara, will be staying put in the base." Gruite ale recommended.

Fuoco nodded at that, "As you should, your skills at organizing are far more important than fighting. You've both led towns before, and we have many civilians that will need to be organized if they're going to not hinder our efforts. After they're rested, which you two ought to do as well, we'll need to put them to work according to their skills and abilities. Most importantly food and construction. If the castle is not quickly taken for our own purposes we'll need a fortified structure to keep everyone safe."

She turned her attention to the three team leaders. "Gather your teams and report back here, I'll give you a bit of a boost before you leave, no sense going without every advantage we can give."

As each team returned ready, Fuoco would play a short song, rejuvenating them as best as she could before sending them off.

 

Blu would arrive at the meeting after the teams had left, "If you're planning to take the castle, I'd have to advise against it."

Fuoco looked a bit incredulous, "And why is that?"

"It isn't structurally sound. The whole thing stands on three pillars, if any of the pillars were damaged enough the whole thing will topple over. It wouldn't even take that big of an explosive by my estimates."

Fuoco looked like she was going to dismiss the idea, but then looked thoughtful. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, and for your help earlier. Your instrument is quite powerful. You should rest, no doubt there will be even more in the morning."

Unless someone else had a comment on the exchange, Blu would leave, and Fuoco would appraise the castle in a new light. Sure, there would be a loss in morale to the civilians to see the castle destroyed, but it would likely be worth it to remove it from the enemy's hooves. And he had a point, if this colt could find that flaw there was no reason to think that the enemy wasn't also aware, and wouldn't take the same opportunity if ousted.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2024-04-21 at 11:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco wasn't really paying attention to the explanation other than noting that it was different from what she had been taught. Fuoco again wished she had studied that lesson better, as it would have been very useful here.

Fuoco nodded at that, "As you should, your skills at organizing are far more important than fighting. You've both led towns before, and we have many civilians that will need to be organized if they're going to not hinder our efforts. After they're rested, which you two ought to do as well, we'll need to put them to work according to their skills and abilities. Most importantly food and construction. If the castle is not quickly taken for our own purposes we'll need a fortified structure to keep everyone safe."

She turned her attention to the three team leaders. "Gather your teams and report back here, I'll give you a bit of a boost before you leave, no sense going without every advantage we can give."

As each team returned ready, Fuoco would play a short song, rejuvenating them as best as she could before sending them off.

 

Blu would arrive at the meeting after the teams had left, "If you're planning to take the castle, I'd have to advise against it."

Fuoco looked a bit incredulous, "And why is that?"

"It isn't structurally sound. The whole thing stands on three pillars, if any of the pillars were damaged enough the whole thing will topple over. It wouldn't even take that big of an explosive by my estimates."

Fuoco looked like she was going to dismiss the idea, but then looked thoughtful. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, and for your help earlier. Your instrument is quite powerful. You should rest, no doubt there will be even more in the morning."

Unless someone else had a comment on the exchange, Blu would leave, and Fuoco would appraise the castle in a new light. Sure, there would be a loss in morale to the civilians to see the castle destroyed, but it would likely be worth it to remove it from the enemy's hooves. And he had a point, if this colt could find that flaw there was no reason to think that the enemy wasn't also aware, and wouldn't take the same opportunity if ousted.

The groups team has gathered and recieved their blessings.

Blitz had 10 pegasi with her.

Kuya had himself alone.

While Cozy too was alone. It seems she had a hard time finding anyone willing to join her.

" Um Fuoco... I don't think my plan would work...."

 

Everyone pondered at what Blu suggested, except Cozy; She was extremely worried, as she knows a bit on how Blu's mind works.

" mind you that that building is not made by any old regular Crystal."

 

Edited April 24 by Evil Pink One

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

(Blessings make her sound like a cleric)

6 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" Um Fuoco... I don't think my plan would work...."

Fuoco nodded, "Then stay here, there will be other opportunities. Rest up tonight, there will be plenty to do tomorrow."

 

Once the other groups were rejuvenated and sent out, Fuoco moved towards a window to watch, not that there would be much to see at night.

 

6 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

" mind you that that building is not made by any old regular Crystal."

Blu paused, looking back with a raised eyebrow, "I didn't think it was, it would have shattered under its own weight by now if it were. But even it it's made of steel one or more of those pillars are hollow to allow access to the structure above, and that is an exploitable weakness. With the weight above we wouldn't even need to fully break the pillar, a cut across it would be enough to bring the castle down."

With that he would head out, presumably to rest for the battle in the morning.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Blessings make her sound like a cleric)

( she's more like a bard/ magician to me though )

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Blu paused, looking back with a raised eyebrow, "I didn't think it was, it would have shattered under its own weight by now if it were. But even it it's made of steel one or more of those pillars are hollow to allow access to the structure above, and that is an exploitable weakness. With the weight above we wouldn't even need to fully break the pillar, a cut across it would be enough to bring the castle down."

With that he would head out, presumably to rest for the battle in the morning.

Cozy was still worried, but did not wish too push her thoughts on the matter to her master. She wouldn't like to ruin the mood of the only pony who acknowledges her, plus he needs his rest.

She whimpers silently at the corner as she bids Blu good night.

16 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco nodded, "Then stay here, there will be other opportunities. Rest up tonight, there will be plenty to do tomorrow."

 

Once the other groups were rejuvenated and sent out, Fuoco moved towards a window to watch, not that there would be much to see at night.

 She'd agree and bow defeated. 

" I'm sorry i could not be of help for you today." To her She had failed fuoco and Blu, and have not met their expectations.

 

The Blitz's team would fly and quickly charge at the castle,

While kuya vanishes into the night.

Blitz's team met with few resistance and seems that there are but a few flying creatures blocking their way; mostly small fries. They slowly but surely got closer to the castle without alarming any as the amount of flying creatures guarding the castle were still but few.

On Kuya's side, who knows? It's hard to tell if he was even there.

Blitz team has now perched on the castle, The crystal is in view.

But a trap all along.

A giant infected Gryphon would land just above the team.

It was two stories high; too high for any gryphon to be.

It screeches and deafens anyone close to it. This caused panic to Blitz's team and caused chaos on the battlefield, as the screech attracted alot of unneeded attention.

Blitz was unsure if to abort the mission or not; but the crystal was right infront of them.

As Fuoco watches the event, before she could make a move, a tremble and an explosion could be heard beneath them. And it seems panic is ensuing within their boarders.

" lady fuoco, we've been breached!" The guard who rushed in said to them.

"Don't worry Fuoco, this was expected. Focus on the assault, we can handle this." Fuoco and Gruite Ale quickly shuffled towards the guard who quickly assisted them where to go.

But before leaving, Diamond Tiara would give Cozy Glow a pat at the back and gave her a smile.

As they left, Cozy had an awkward smile and her troubles seems to have left her alone for now.

" to think we were supposed to be the same age...." she mumbled.

@Illiad Easle

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

On 2024-04-24 at 4:27 PM, Evil Pink One said:

A giant infected Gryphon would land just above the team.

It was two stories high; too high for any gryphon to be.

It screeches and deafens anyone close to it. This caused panic to Blitz's team and caused chaos on the battlefield, as the screech attracted alot of unneeded attention.

Blu had intended to rest, but he chose a spot with a view towards the castle in case something happened. So the noise spurred him to action.

"Big target, and no Alpha to steel my kill."

His rifle was ready in a moment, he prepped a few of the rounds with explosive and incendiary enchantments before preparing to fire. He'd aim for the center of mass on the gryphon first, see how fast it was, and if it moved slowly enough he'd go for more damaging targets like the head and wings.

 

(Fuoco)

On 2024-04-24 at 4:27 PM, Evil Pink One said:

As they left, Cozy had an awkward smile and her troubles seems to have left her alone for now.

" to think we were supposed to be the same age...." she mumbled.

Fuoco didn't address that comment as she turned towards Cozy, "Looks like another opportunity is here, get out there and defend. Or are the legends of an alicorn's strength just that?"

Fuoco wouldn't wait for a response before she started to play, invigorating those who could hear the song as she had during the day. It should serve to aid the defenders against the intrusion. Those attacking the castle were beyond her range to assist anyway.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2024-05-01 at 4:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

rifle was ready in a moment, he prepped a few of the rounds with explosive and incendiary enchantments before preparing to fire. He'd aim for the center of mass on the gryphon first, see how fast it was, and if it moved slowly enough he'd go for more damaging targets like the head and wings

The griffon would take the hit.

It sinks in and implodes the body of the griphon, then burst goes the impact.

Great joy and relief would spread through the faces of blitz's team and would soon regain their composure, but only for them to regroup and see the creature quickly regenerate.

Once more the team was stunned. The beast till stood and was not felled.

The whole where the wound was once, now quickly recovered as if nothing happened. Life came back to it's wyes once more, but with more rage and ferocity. The giant griffon screeched once more with rage.

But before hope vanished within her team, she shouted with encouragement.

" SIR BLU IS WITH US! DO NOT LOOSE HOPE! WE STICK TO THE MISSION!" 

half of the team would distract the Griffon so it would not move and stir clear of sir Blu's line of sight, so shots will make contact and ease for Blu to hit.

While the rest continued to descend towards the crystal heart.

But before the pegasi could lift the heart, ground infected units are already there surrounding them.

The heart is quite heavy and lifting it away would leave them defenseless.

They could easily fend them off but they cant lift the heart.

blitz was a bit of a lose at this point, but luckily Kuya was able to reach them.at the back of the swarm, Kuya charges forth and trampled his enemies.

" i was supposed to be here earlier, but there were traps all over the place. The only way we can get the heart out is through the sky."

"I'll hold them off Blitz. Go"

" nah... They can do it on their own... I aint leaving ya."

The other pegasi got the signal and began flying off with the heart.

The two were left to guard their escape.

Kuya as strong as he may be, was already at his limits.

" go Blitz... I aint lasting here."

But Blitz did not listen nor spoke. She just went to him and defended him with her life.

 

On 2024-05-01 at 4:26 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco didn't address that comment as she turned towards Cozy, "Looks like another opportunity is here, get out there and defend. Or are the legends of an alicorn's strength just that?"

Fuoco wouldn't wait for a response before she started to play, invigorating those who could hear the song as she had during the day. It should serve to aid the defenders against the intrusion. Those attacking the castle were beyond her range to assist anyway.

Cozy would rub off some tears on her eyes and gave a nod towards Fuoco and left the room.

 

Her aid would reach the ears of the rest, defending their forte.

The battle rages on but it seems the ones attacking their bases are small fries. Their side seems to be easily handling their surprise attack.

Fuoco sees the group of pegasi carrying the heart with great speed. Their a bit tired but their excitement for victory pushes them on and seeing that they are nearing the base pushes them even further.

The griffon seems to be distracted by  blu and the pegasi, while the ones bellow are easily taking care of the invasion.

(Is there something missing?)

Fuoco felt it.... Something is missing, as the heart approaches. She needs to determine this nagging feeling.. or the lack of it.

@Illiad Easle

Edited May 4 by Evil Pink One

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

Blu hardly expected that the griffon, charged as it was, would go down in one strike, so he continued firing, glad for the efforts of those on the other end to make the shots easy.

 

(Fuoco)

(I'm making an assumption here since you didn't say what was missing)

Fuoco had expected that the heart getting closer would make the resonance stronger, but it wasn't. It being held shouldn't affect it that much. So either it wasn't the heart that was resonating her music, or this wasn't the real heart.

She wasn't qualified to answer that question though, so she maintained her efforts to bolster those within her range, lamenting that this artifact wasn't giving her the boost she had hoped for, as it would have greatly extended her range of influence, maybe even to the entire city.

Still, she was focused on the here and now, and would worry about the artifact once the attack was ceased.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

@Illiad Easle

56 minutes ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

Blu hardly expected that the griffon, charged as it was, would go down in one strike, so he continued firing, glad for the efforts of those on the other end to make the shots easy.

 

(Fuoco)

(I'm making an assumption here since you didn't say what was missing)

Fuoco had expected that the heart getting closer would make the resonance stronger, but it wasn't. It being held shouldn't affect it that much. So either it wasn't the heart that was resonating her music, or this wasn't the real heart.

She wasn't qualified to answer that question though, so she maintained her efforts to bolster those within her range, lamenting that this artifact wasn't giving her the boost she had hoped for, as it would have greatly extended her range of influence, maybe even to the entire city.

Still, she was focused on the here and now, and would worry about the artifact once the attack was ceased.

Fuoco successfully noticed.

As she had noticed and tried to resonate with the heart, something else happened. She felt something corrupted inside the heart.

It reminded her of the grotesque Alicorn... But different.

 

The griffon got shot one after another and its regenerative speed decreases as well.

As soon as the heart was half point to the destination of the enemy base, it quickly made a hasty retreat. If it had to crawl or hide, it will. it was desperate to run away.

The attack from their base also declined and both their sides are winning.

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

(Blu)

Once the griffon was eliminated as a threat Blu turned his attention towards whatever stragglers remained, trying to clear the way for the away teams to return safely.

 

(Fuoco)

Fuoco frowned as the heart approached. She had hoped it was what was causing the resonance she had heard before, but the frequencies coming off of the heart weren't the same. Further, fainter, she could hear the resonance she had heard earlier. Likely whatever artifact she'd felt earlier had been moved further away, and wasn't the heart.

She shook off her disappointment, it had been a long shot anyway that the artifact she had felt would be the same one the ponies here knew. Given they interacted with it differently than she did. In all likelihood, by her guess, the artifact she had resonated with was some mundane object to the ponies here.

 

In any case, as the attack died down, she relaxed a bit, and waited for the teams to return.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

The mission was a success the attack stopped. 

Blitz and Kuya was readying their selves, but the time has not come for them. They all retreated down the sewers, the ones that could fit that is. While the others scurried away.

The two ended up hugging each other in their survival and success.

" We did it!" Both ponies yelled for joy.

They'd also quickly realized the actions they made with each other and quickly shoved of each other.

" Pervert!" Blitz yelled in embarrassment.

" Young Mare, i would never stoop low yo your level." Kuya replied.

This only pissed Blitz and gave Kuya a sucker punch to the gut.

" Oufff!! You sly mare...urg."

" HMPHF!" Blitz walked away trying to hold her pried and embarrassment.

The two were able to trot back the base but...

 

The pegasi team was able to bring the heart back to the base.

They placed it at the center and began to celebrate with joy.

" The heart is back!"

" Long live the crystal empire!"

Ponys began to gather and started to bring out joy to one another.

Everyone congratulated the heroes who brought the heart 

" You have done us proud!" 

But the pegasi would stand tall beside the heart and would not respond.

The ponys at first thought that they would be more excited, but i guess that's just show how professional they are. So they continued to celebrate infront of the heart.

"Is the heart this dark in color?"

" Probably just the lighting."

 

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

3 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

But the pegasi would stand tall beside the heart and would not respond.

The ponys at first thought that they would be more excited, but i guess that's just show how professional they are. So they continued to celebrate infront of the heart.

"Is the heart this dark in color?"

" Probably just the lighting."

Both Blu and Fuoco found this odd, given how much decorum the ponies here had lacked up until this point. While in their respective worlds this might be expected, it wasn't here.

Blu also thought that this had been too easy, especially when the attack had died down, rather than build up, as they got closer to securing the heart.

Fuoco called down from her perch, "Do we have some ponies who know about the heart who could examine it? Maybe some of the locals or the crystal guards? This could be a fake, tampered with, corrupted, or " she shuddered " cursed."

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

4 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

@Evil Pink One

Both Blu and Fuoco found this odd, given how much decorum the ponies here had lacked up until this point. While in their respective worlds this might be expected, it wasn't here.

Blu also thought that this had been too easy, especially when the attack had died down, rather than build up, as they got closer to securing the heart.

Fuoco called down from her perch, "Do we have some ponies who know about the heart who could examine it? Maybe some of the locals or the crystal guards? This could be a fake, tampered with, corrupted, or " she shuddered " cursed."

Gruit Ale was beside them and gave a report.

" Tiara went and checked it for us."

From the distance they can see Tiara somewhat near the heart but not moving at all. It seems she is struggling for some reason.

And for some reason the ponys near the heart seems to be dancing in silent around it.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

Fuoco's expression grew more concerned, "I assume falling silent around the heart isn't normal?"

Fuoco let out a low whistle, conjuring a small ball of fire like she had before, and moving it towards the ponies by the heart. She would move it it front of whoever was closest, so they could see it, then move it steadily closer to them to see if they would move or respond. If they didn't, she would let the ball burn a small bit of their mane before dispelling it. If they still did not respond at that point she would call out: "The heart is cursed! Everyone get away from it!"

She would look for Cozy, and, assuming she wasn't also in its thrall, would shout, "Pull them away with your magic, don't try and get close." 

Blu would train his rifle on the heart, but he wouldn't try and shoot it yet as he had no reason to think the curse would be dispelled by breaking it. Rather he was preparing to shoot those affected if they turned violent.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

The ponies around the heart began moving in close to block Fuoco, may they be burnt or not.

Their expressions are as blank and void. No pain no nothing.

 

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

She would look for Cozy, and, assuming she wasn't also in its thrall, would shout, "Pull them away with your magic, don't try and get close." 

"I-im on it!" She was able to pull some even Tiara. But there was still alot she could not.

" They're!.... They're stuck! I feel like if i pulled them they'll get strangled!"

And with those words, Fuoco felt something cold and invisible crawling towards her neck.

It has the same creepy embrace when she was being infected by the amalgamation of an alicorn.

The mindless ponies began to cling to her slowly and chanting.

"Sing for us..."

"We need you..."

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

23 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

And with those words, Fuoco felt something cold and invisible crawling towards her neck.

Fuoco shook, and slapped the sensation with a hoof. If she felt something there she'd cast a bit of fire at it, likely singeing her own coat in the spot in the process.

23 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

The mindless ponies began to cling to her

(They're on the ground while Fuoco is up on a building. They wouldn't be able to get that close to her like that.)

23 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

"Sing for us..."

"We need you..."

Fuoco had an idea, one that she didn't much like, but she hoped it would work.

She called out to the colt with the thunderous instrument, "Break the heart, it should stop the curse!"

That said, she prepared to do something she hoped she wouldn't have to. The song she was going to play... it haunted her, it had almost claimed her before, but these ponies were already enthralled...

She started to play, it was a repeating melody, 

-do do doo do, do dah doo do, do dah-

The last song she had heard before she came here. The one that controlled the hoard that attacked her family's estate. Their leader relied on his voice to power the song, but she had her flute to refine and empower the tune.

Here she had the advantage that the ponies approaching her were looking at her, which made the eye contact easy to accomplish, which was an important part of the control, and would limit the effect rather than all who heard the song joining in.

This song leveraged the old magic, the magic that told all ponies how to join in the song and sing together. It spoke to something primal in ponies, affecting the herd instinct directly.

If she was successful, any pony she looked in the eyes while playing the song would find themselves singing it as well, and moving in a simple step pattern: four hooves to the right, four to the left, then a two beat 90 degree turn, then repeating so long as the song played. She didn't include the part that would propagate the song, but there was a chance that those close to the affected ponies would find themselves drawn into it.

 

Blu wasn't sure about the order to attack the heart, but figured that this leader figure had a better idea as to these things than he did. So he took aim, trying to find a faucet perpendicular to him to minimize the chance of a ricochet, and maximize the fracturing power of the shot. Given the concave cut of the heart, that shouldn't be too hard, so he just needed a clear shot, and he would take it as soon as one was clear.

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

1 hour ago, Illiad Easle said:

They're on the ground while Fuoco is up on a building. They wouldn't be able to get that close to her like that.)

??

On 2024-05-09 at 9:46 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco let out a low whistle, conjuring a small ball of fire like she had before, and moving it towards the ponies by the heart. She

( Oh i thought she was moving it so i thought she too went close... So it was just the spell okay got it.)

2 hours ago, Illiad Easle said:

she was successful, any pony she looked in the eyes while playing the song would find themselves singing it as well, and moving in a simple step pattern: four hooves to the right, four to the left, then a two beat 90 degree turn, then repeating so long as the song played. She didn't include the part that would propagate the song, but there was a chance that those close to the affected ponies would find themselves drawn into it.

It was successful in a different way.

The control on the mindless ponies was in error. They started jolting and chocking, confused and not knowing which command to follow.

This gave an opening for Blu as the puppets were not blocking his line of fire.

BANG! The fake heart shattered and out came Beta with her new grotesque suit. Her lower half was attached to an octopus like machine that also connects a tube to her head. There multiple fibers can be seen shinning and wrapping itself to the puppets.

Her movements with the machine made her fluid and quick on her motions.

She stares at Fuoco and gave her greeting.

"Fuoco... It's nice to finally meet you. Mother... She would bot shut up about you... Now i know... You... I also want you now..."her strangle towards the puppets became stronger and forcefully yanked them out of  Fuoco's grasp.

Some of the puppets began bleeding because of that.

She began surrounding herself with the puppets( the ponies) 

She stared at Blu and waved her hooves, mocking him.

" No no little one. You behave. You'll be next i promise.

She began to slither towards Fuoco with the meat shields near her.

Some of the tentacles began to slither and assault her mind.

[Illiad Easle 3,139]

@Evil Pink One

14 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

She stares at Fuoco and gave her greeting.

Fuoco smirked, clearly this pony wasn't all that bright, as she had missed the part where eye contact was important to Fuoco's control.

Fuoco hadn't stopped playing the song, and now that it was clear that there was no alicorn present, she played louder, eyes fixed on this pony.

But she played a different song now, a much quieter one, with a sharp piercing note that one would hear right behind their eyes. They say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but more accurately they're an easy target and an easy avenue to the brain.

It was a similar version to the song she had played for the dragon back at the second village, the fire from within. Focused through Beta's own eyes. The first effect would be blindness, followed by searing pain.

 

(Assuming the above doesn't immediately kill her or stop her from acknowledging Blu)

Blu wasn't going to wait though, as Beta had made a big mistake by not blocking or distracting him.

14 hours ago, Evil Pink One said:

She stared at Blu and waved her hooves, mocking him.

Eye contact worked well in Blu's favor too, as it meant a clear line of sight. And at this distance, with Blu's rifle already trained on her and charged... She had exactly 1/10th of a second to move out of the way, and he wasn't going to wait for her to stop talking.

 

(Really, given the damage Blu has done before, he should have been Beta's first target once she was aware of him, or she should have done something to stop him from immediately firing.)

(Still, I guess she'll dodge or something, but between Blu and Fuoco directly attacking her I don't favor her chances in this encounter.)

[Evil Pink One 13,506]

On 2024-05-11 at 4:29 AM, Illiad Easle said:

Fuoco hadn't stopped playing the song, and now that it was clear that there was no alicorn present, she played louder, eyes fixed on this pony.

Fixed it was. And she was happy. 

She slowly felt the pain and intrusion on her mind.

"... So beautiful."

She then placed a puppet between both their gaze and the poor puppet was the one taking the damage.

She started bleeding through her nose eyes and mouth, with the puppet. 

Since she was doing the mind control, she too would still be affected by the burn a bit.

" Would you sacrifice this pony just to get through me? The chances are yes you would... Then what use are they as walls?"

She began launching the puppets towards Blu and Fuoco.

Fear coursed through Cozy, Gruite ale, Tiara and the rest who were not infected.

But one took action at this dire situation.

Cozy glow released her powers to save the projectile ponies.

Beta was shocked at Cozy Glow, she didn't realize that she turned into an alicorn.

" ...you? Of all ponies became an Alicorn!?... Preposterous!"

Gruit Ale shout a warning to the rest.

"Everyone away from her! Don't give her any leverage what so ever!

Tiara would quickly aide the rest that are near Beta, as it seems she is not easily affected by the mind control.

Beta, now with fewer puppets returned back to defensive.

"Mother! I require your aide!" 

The ground began to rumble.