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#Operators in Equestria 95: Aftermath
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389719
>If you would like to join, make a sensible loadout here at:
innawoods.net
>And if you want to bring in something special or anything not on the list, shop it in. Don't go overboard, though.

>When you're done, read over the Operator's Handbook:
https://ponepaste.org/7810

>Or the Hoofbook if you wanna be a pony:
https://ponepaste.org/7812

>Then drop a post here.

>Overall Pastes:
https://ponepaste.org/user/PonyStrangler

>Bulletin Board:
https://ponepaste.org/7806

>Previous Thread:
>>352263 →
Basin Village: The Crystalline Compromise 7
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389722
390135
>>371910 →
>Rather slowly, especially for the exhausted or those struggling to put their helmets back on, dozens of helmets turn or shift at your direction, a staggering variety of nocturnal eye colorations greeting you with grave concern.
>As one, the Night and Lunar Guard stills, only a few blinking at first.
"He was.. right there."
"Next to me?"
"Yeah.. but how-"
>The closest group on the outskirts stand up straight, quarter-turning to eye those closest.
>Then the next row performs the same, and the next, Guard helms swaying back and forth.
>Reality bends forwards a fraction.. and snaps.
>Small clusters of ritual blades held aloft are rapidly stashed, unicorns snarling out tired orders as they perform immediate close range bonding.
"MARES, LINE UP AND AREA CHECK! Rest of you in the air, NOW!"
>Smaller pegasi leaping onto anypony larger than them and jolting upwards in flight, seperating into squads of their own as their progressively larger kin need little more than enough room to spread their wings and jump.
>The majority spread across the Basin's southern buildings to glare down, while the least tired streak outwards, every possible Lunar color burning coldly.
>Seemingly taking commarend, an older Village unicorn in an older, heavily scratched Lancer armor configuration shouts above the noise while a second in brand new Charger calls to her.
"Search every-damned-thing!"
"Where's Emerald?!"
"Who?!"
"You know, the green eyed human mare! The one we're not supposed to laugh at!"
>Pausing to double check while unicorns and the much smaller number of earth ponies settling into loose parade lines, the Villager's eyes visibly flicker upon swiveling to study you briefly.
>Clonking about halfway to gaze at the disorderly ranks, her helmet makes a brief shake.
"No idea! Find them both, they can't be far!"
[1d6 = 1] <Search Efforts
Marequipa: Shoalbarge Villa
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389725
390127
>>371911 →
>Clearing the rapidly fading speckles, which probably weren't cancer-causing, the scene's entirety could have matched any medium sized trading center.
>Although Shoalbarge had more of an air towards bartering given the few coins you could see, the hundreds of earth ponies were far more quiet and organized than most markets you could think of.
>Thick, almost leather looking satchels filled with something heavy seemed to be the most common trade item, which were quickly exchanged for large amounts of raw foodstuffs, though a curious variety of colored wood, whether sticks or small logs, was second.
>Spaced thoroughfares between family groups were enough for you to catch sight of other translocation matrices spread about equinedistantly, ponies arriving or leaving nearly every half minute.
>Comparing the number of pegasi to earth ponies, it was about one in nine although few seemed interested in anything more than fruit.

>Head tilting left in a short motion, the mare's eyes widen briefly at your first few words.
>Breaking into a sharp grin, she takes several steps forwards, left leg lifting high and extending the hoof, which had an unusual, thin metallic plating covering it, in greeting.
<Spaneigh> "It's great to meet you, especially since you know our language, too! Common Equestrian is such a pain and I hate having to find translators. But don't mind that."
>Giving a short huff, Sallinas sets her hoof down lightly, then flicks her ears halfway forwards, the right eyebrow raising.
<Spaneigh> "This used to be some kind of trading or shipping vessel in the past, probably related to the First, Second, Third, or maybe Fourth, but other than that it was found abandoned at least a thousand years ago. The pegasi and Harpies that starded living here didn't care to find out why."
>Face shifting into an embarrased look, she stares straight up for a second before focusing on you.
<Spaneigh> "Not much, sorry. As for making friends there's a lot of ponies here, but we don't really have a lot to do with Princess Argenta or the Coalition. We're fairly independent outside from small tributes or collections, and those happen maybe once every.. three years?
And except for allied trading we don't have a whole lot of materials, this is primarily a trade and storage hub."
>Lips pursing while her face tightens, stock still for a few seconds before giving a short rolling shrug.
<Spaneigh> "As for opportunities that wouldn't take long to find out. Might take a minute."
>Head turning, burnt red eyes surveying the closest stalls.
>Making a short, sharp, attention getting up-down whistle, Pren's left ear flops down, waggling twice.
[1d6 = 6] <Offers
Taking a Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389731
389749
>>371921 →
>Flickering around to visibly examine the crystalline device, 'Shiibo' sets up a tiny new window to copy local data.
>Performing several difficult hand motions as if weighing something, the avatar's head shakes before simply filing each into new branching categories.
'Secure connection established, transferring all low and medium non-priority objectives for data modeling now.'
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6]
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10] <R-AEHI Mass-Calculation Algorithms
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]

>Appearing with minute pressure exchange quicker than you could physically realize, the weapon takes on a slightly blue-red tinted gleam from the central display screens.
>Thin, visibly bending lines appear around it, the ultra-fine magnetic field holding stable.
>And rather comfortably so.

>Busied with connecting a small tablet and lead to her seat's recharging ports, Katyal glances up briefly at the OT-4 rapidly changing direction, turning a full 180 around the den, the screens showing virtually no movement.
"Can't agree, any scent or trail we leave behind is asking for trouble that we don't have the explosives or ammo to deal with. Damn, didn't even feel that turn."
>Finding one that fits and setting it across the right armrest, she makes a watch-tapping motion, mouthing the words 'or this' with a pained expression, before settling back into a partially meditative pose.
"Besides, if that shipping container's similar to the ones I've helped dig out, they're not useful as anything other than a giant weight."
*"Hold on, how good's that material for armor? Could we use it for the Landbarge?"*
*"It would be mediocre at best, unfortunately. The second highest grade Dynasty intermixes were developed solely to prevent damage from esoteric means, but are barely comparable to middle grade pre-Modern Era alloys. However, taking it apart would destroy a majority of the protective wardings, sigils, and seals.
Unless you had a certain type of pony whom fully comprehends the vast intricacies of maintaining them, that is."*
*"Welp, it was a thought."*

>Coming into view, albeit sideways, Hodch was currently picking through a vast pile of coins, small squares, rectangles, metallic bars, and more colors of gemstone than you'd seen in the Enclave, heaped next to a tree which made the OT-4 appear miniscule.
>Holding aloft a single piece, a sharp neon blue-white, the Reservist's ears perk up at the Landbarge coasting to a stop next to him, the motion barely felt.
*"Dul states this was everything. She was planning on trying to take the shipping container back in pieces, though is nowhere near acclimated enough to damage it. What was it was doing to your claws? ...bouncing off? I see. Not unusual, those were heavily warded to prevent damage, let alone being broken into.
For now I would prefer to mark the location as a minor retrieval possibility, we've spent too much time here already. Lonestar?"*
*"Tagged and logged to the best of my abilities. Gonna take a while to figure out the mapping systems though."*
*"This should only take a minute to load."*
*"Wait, in the back?"*
*"For now, yes. Katyal and I will sort out what can be safely stored elsewhere."*
*"Elsewhere as in?"*
>Heaving together the bars in groups, the deep purple unicorn visibly strains while his eyes roll, large pillows appearing in Lunar blue to float them upwards.
*"Less talking, more opening, please-"*

>Both of the rear hatches lower, Dul sliding around the left one, Riftdrowners carrying a pockmarked chunk of kanpri the size of her head to toss on the mat, then trots through the Landbarge's side.
>Which is immediately followed by a host of archaic, refined metals, stacked in front of the unoccupied seats.
*"Better be, had to give up a rear suite of plasma weapons for it.
I've got a manual and the Rerculon knows basically everything maintenance wise. Whole system's based off designs considered 'applicable enough' to save in our most secure tidal forts. Also don't know enough about what we had generations before, and when ExoTech tried to recreate an original, half of command said it wasn't possible. Whole technician staff gave up after ten, maybe fifteen minutes poking around the schematics.
In short: one would've prevented Five Stars, that being the aeronaval command structure, from producing anything for about two years. Ten light cruisers, three heavy, one light battleship, fifty support vessels, and a hundred ExoDivers worth. Didn't have the infrastructure."*
>Delivering another stack of metals into the passenger compartment, Hodch glances upwards for five seconds.
*"Why not ask your Gestalt for assistance? He does have some post-temporal access."*
*"Already tried that approach. I'd need another ten tons at least, which means performing a huge remodel."*
*"Nevermind then."*
>Returning to deposit a large, faintly glowing black cube next to the right hatch, Dul frowns deeply at it, though jumps through the side once more.
>Turning to survey the next delivered pile, mostly gems this time, the woman gives a low, appreciate whistle, sliding off to begin inspecting.
*"Ey Hodch, how marely Dynasty transport containers have the Lunars found in the past half millennia?"*
[1d6+1 = (1+1) = 2] <Expert Thievery
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5]
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7]

*"In total? Hm. Perhaps ten thousand or so. Give or take two."*
*"...thousand?"*
*"Roughly. We don't collate every single record, especially if such is a simple recovery, found, or ancestral claim."*
*"Number of empty ones?"*
*"Roughly one in thirty."*
*"Enough to buy a few castles. Guards, staff, and the whole county included, right?"*
*"Or to bribe whom-knows-what."*
>Hearing Dul struggle to roll something up the left ramp, the First Responder stares as the Siren gives up, avoiding the next pile of coins and striding out to help her.
*"Normally I'd be the one bringing up that option. Any more?"*
*"Five-"*
>Hefting a large beach ball sized, dull green metallic sphere in both hands, she returns to deposit it on the chair next to hers with a scowl.
"Where the shit did they even FIND enough for this?"
Lin's Reliquary of Cold Logic
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389742
>>371932 →
>Feeling the multitude of punctures closing and flesh knitting back together was mildly bizarre, though far better compared to the various alternative substances Tipper had treated you with in the past.
>Marking the seep's location, it takes considerable effort to sink down into the middle Void layers, away from the lighter, more troublesome spectrums.
>Facing what felt to be southwest and breaking into a partial sideways lumbering jog from the Gepard's weight, bright green in one eye and red in the other show a thoroughly different ecosystem:
>Leaving the water into a partially raised, larger stand of trees, the uneven ground you could see wasn't enough to slow you down, nor were rapidly fleeing small mammals, reptiles, and insects, the majority smaller than a housecat, seeking any possible shelter.
>Skinny clumps of waist high, wide leafed plants chaotically spread between the faintly warm crystalline trees, clusters of long, thin banded ferns scattered between, while small, round bushes were uncommon, dotting the strange landscape with a wide profusion of oddly shaped berries.
>Trying to compare known Moors flora to these, none were similar enough to find common ancestry.
>Far ahead you make out the beginning of a shallow curve leading upwards, roughly 100M above the nearly flat micro-plateau, the crystalline trees much wider, though considerably shorter than the ones near the emerald boulder.

>Passing a faintly glowing, massive fallen limb, a booming, feral howl-screech that was definitely unfamiliar rebound across the Reliquary.
>Profuse, angered avian shrieks retort in kind, though fall silent at an exceptionally loud crack.
[1d6 = 2] <Tracking
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389743
390135
>>372080 →
>Returning a pleasantly low pitched snicker to you, Stellar flicks her wingclaws apart in a 'I get it' motion.
"You should see my sister's stallion, he makes the rest of us look completely normal in comparison. Void scars, swamp skitter bites, and nasty burns everywhere else."
>Eyebrows raising briefly, the Cult mare keks, albeit quietly.
"Then again you probably have, he trades here quite a bit."

>Emitting several consecutive, loudly relieved chirring sounds, Guillotine continues rotating until the top, now entirely flat deck faces directly downwards.
*"Worketh well mine logistics dae, unused long havest they be. Havest little tae ponder, methinks: Mama's Tone nae difficult thaen Elder Hongrel."*
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <Intact Communication Protocols
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]

>Rotating sluggishly, the satellite's machine learning system takes half a minute to cross-reference coordinates, ranging the Ferron Coast to Central Moors.
>Finally locating a specific central point of reference, what you see is difficult to comprehend at first:
>Vast, twisted masses of highly varied trees were covered in what appeared to be equally massive, flat vines, though a slight refocus reveals another complexity.
>Recognizing one as a mango, the uniquely shaped, almost reflective dark red was mildly amusing, though the next was some type of near-tropical spiny fruit.
>Each of the branches was effectively another canopy shading those under it, broadened out and forming multiple layers of deep, vibrantly living growth in nearly every color, save for lighter hues.
>While you weren't sure how tall each was, nor was there much of a reference, some were sure to dwarf those around the Fortress.
>Barely perceptible movements scattered across each level were clearly visible, but weren't focused upon.
>Locating what the system deemed to be the exact center of the grid coordinates, an incredibly dull green, partially oval shape becomes noticeable, surrounded by an alarming amount of movement.
Razorback Fortress: The Clinic, Septimber 38th
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389744
>>371871 →
>Ticking off the final checklist notations, a guttural, choked hacking-cough from outside occurs, heavily muffled, as does the imprint of multiple Void backwashes.

>>371878 →
>Nova Flicker
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <Vile Taunt
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10] E.Assault
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12]
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <M.Casting: Voidshear
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <M.Teleport
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
>vs:
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <???
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9] <???
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7] <????
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <???
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.389749
389848
>>389731
>Dissipating his unnamed weapon, he looks up towards Katyal as she relays a negative to his proposal.
>He nods as she highlights their lack of time, idly noting the radio exchange as the OT-4's suspended ride glides to their destination.
(Not unlike the grav crafts.)

>Upon arrival, he stands and moves to assist in transporting whatever could feasibly be carried in through the rear hatch only pausing briefly to take in the sizable assortment of coins, gems, and other raw materials.
>Making liberal use of his Sticky enchantment to increase the available carrying surface area, he coats himself in a layer of gems and coins before using his arms and gloved hands to carry larger items back to the transport while sparing a glance at the Greensteel spheres.
(Greensteel, highly unusual. Flexible properties, may be useful in armor applications preserving mobility. Naturalistic damage profile?)
*"Given the collapse of the Dynasty, there are no claims to these goods, correct?"*
Mallia Castella
!YEzfvp.1ZQ
c61f7b5
?
No.389767
389858
>>370863 →

>It takes Enginseer Mallia barely a split-second to acknowledge the modulating signal, and with it the surface of these recently completed datastacks--this treasure trove of knowledge that she had just been allowed access to.
>Instantly, the Enginseer was distracted as she mentally sifts through the mere surface of these bytes of ancient history and information.
>If she wasn't currently experiencing emotional turmoil at the same time, she might've squealed incoherently in Binary.

>Thankfully, she was currently exercising her self-control to remain relatively focused. More attention is provided towards the Sub-Phaeron Lord as it provided it's response.
>It spoke in ways that had a way of disarming her and confusing her simultaneously. Were she less of a Xenarite, this would be the equivalent of a mental flashbang, as Dogma and Indoctrination would've attempted to wrench her towards violence. but, "thankfully", Dogma and Indoctrination had little purchase on this one's mind.
>It was still weird to the point that she had to 're-read' the speech a few times just to make sure she was understanding correctly, that a Necron--of that species that saw humans as little more than flies on a wall, was speaking to her like this. Like an equal. But she could see it for what it was: An olive branch, and an ounce of Hope.

>...'were we to meet in honest, civilized affairs, no conflicts would we have'...

>What does she even say to this? She could keep quiet, silently acknowledge. It felt rude somehow.
>Eventually, after a couple nanocycles, a trickle of true honesty leaks out.
(This feels too good to be true. Like it shouldn't be happening. It's frightening. Somehow more frightening than the fact of ... having died and come back.)
>That made her brow furrow slightly, openly, albeit again not to Raindrop Raspberry.
>She was repressing too much. That dam she had put up was going to burst eventually, probably soon at this rate.

>She had to blink and refocus on Raindrop Raspberry to 'reset' herself.

>Mallia couldn't possibly notice this, but as a very pale-skinned woman herself it was obvious when she blushed. Her soft cheeks had taken on a slightly more reddish tint.
>The Pegasus knight was saying a lot of things she is interested in, but it was clear which part Mallia had hung up on as Raindrop Raspberry talked at the exclusion of most other things: The moment Raindrop said she felt 'safe' around them, Mallia made one blink and looks frozen stiff in surprise for at least a second. Even the mechadendrite tendril behind her had gone solid against her back.
>The Enginseer's hand comes down from the side of her head, leaving some ruffled brown hair in it's wake as it comes to lingering on her cheek, and then over her lips.
>Those green eyes of Mallia flick up, looking at those wings as they are flexed, but it only lasts a second before the eyes go back to resuming eye contact. As the Pegasus was now leaning forward.

"You feel safe around me?"
>Her voice descends almost to a whisper, as if this was somehow scandalous. Speaking from behind a hand currently over her mouth. Which drops a second later, back onto her own lap.
>Her voice quickly rises again, sounding almost energised, more eager, with the sadness starting to melt from her eyes.
"Oh- wow, I-I'm, I'm really flattered!"
>Mallia's lips curled into a fainter, tentative, but much more genuine smile
>Perhaps unconsciously, she even holds the Knight's hoof juuust a little tighter. For a moment. Then it relents as Mallia more consciously recovers, looking down at the hoof she was still holding onto, pensively.
"You-, ah-, honestly have much more faith in me than I have in myself right now. Hah~..."
>Mallia's eyes downcast, her body shifting slightly where she sits--a nervous wiggle overtaking for a brief moment, even lifting Raindrop Raspberry's hoof a little to and fro in the odd movement she makes; even the Mechadendrite sways a bit from her sternum.

"So strange... But, Iiii~... I can do this for you! Yeah! Cover for you, and do the things you cannot! I would be happy to."
>Mallia's head bobs a couple times in a pair of affirmative nods, quickly lifting her hand to brush back the locks of hair that are quickly displaced over her face as a result.
"I-, ah-, do... feel, safer... ᵃʳᵒᵘⁿᵈ ʸᵒᵘ ᵃˢ ʷᵉˡˡ. You haven't taken advantage of my significant emotional and physical weakness. That's very nice. Nicer than a lot of other people."
>She said with an underlining nod of her head, speaking much more sheepishly than when Raindrop said it but somewhat heartfelt too.
>The intensity of her embarrassment and worry is multiplied by the amount of Inquisitorial Retainers currently in the Noosphere with her. The look in her eyes changing subtly again, nervous--constantly shifting, but glinting with that unusual child-like hope that was so rare in people like her.
"I'm not expecting something more. I have no idea what to expect! Talking to you has been enough to buoy my spirit and keep me from breaking down any further. That's a lot. A lot. I couldn't ask for more."

>Brief pause, taking in a sharper breath as her cheeks just get redder by the second.
"Sharing a bed so soon is a bit... Strange? Odd? Weird? But ultimately okay! I think? I think. I'm-not-sure-yet-I've-never-done-this-before!"
>It was as if the more she talked, the more nervous energy this woman accumulated. She threw that last part out rapid-fire in one breath, exhaling a bit more for it.

"IF, you actually want to be my Marefriend... I will... I will accept you."
>Her lips curl into a wider, beaming smile that reaches her eyes, once she gets to that part.
"--Although you will have to tell me all the things about yourself. especially the things you don't like, so I don't accidentally make us both very sad! Especially when I decide to make you gifts."
>The hand holding Raindrop Raspberry's hoof is still trembling, just a little but enough to be felt.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389843
389849
"LILAMAREDRE! ....WAKE UP!"
>Even muffled, that was definitely not good.
>Especially when there was a four second wait between the name and the commarend.

>Eyes prying open immediately at the rather common ritual.. it was merely a ceiling.
>In a room.
>A nice, comfortable, scented, if a bit off-colored one.
>Checking the closest shelves without moving, everything was in the same place.
>The skylights were a bit different during the between hours, and only the faintest stomping was heard.
>Directly TOWARDS said room.
>One, two, three, four, five... nine, yep, right on the slightly squeaky board.
>The light knock.
>Then the unspoken, gentle waking contact.
>And finally the loud, disgruntled sigh precisely before-
"LILA."
>...she'd overslept again.
>Much too late.
>And that meant:
"Wake up right now or ELSE you're going to make duskfast for all of us!"
>Well, that wasn't the worst possibility.
>At least, yet.

>Warm, self-soothing mutters in various degrees precede a rather unexpected sequence of words.
"The Baronness has arrived and is waiting for us. She believes there is a safer route this time.
And you may want to hurry by precisely zero-point-five percent, I do not like the look in her eyes."
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389848
389861
>>389749
>Stuck in correcting... something, 'Shiibo' takes one look at the pile, blinks, then returns to selectively peeling back a nonary-to-octodecimal miscommunication fault.
>Which was definitely her fault judging by the mortified face.

>Out the ramp and quickly surveying the accumulated wealth and metals so far, the container's visible contents would have reasonably fit within five to six 4'x4'x4' reinforced military crates.
>Approaching the pile and collecting what you could, a pair of what first looked to be reflective white training weights were lifted in your direction.
>Which most certainly were not.
>What would have been dumbbells anywhere else were instead two precise, roughly volleyball sized spheres of gleaming silverine connected to a reflective red, blue, and silver cylinder of early diamondine.
>Carrying the heavy mass back in, equally confusing objects were deposited by Dul and Katyal:
>The first was side carrying a dim, flattened orange pyramid, which was neither paladine nor Construct hull.
>The second was, for once, struggling to keep hold of a partially shifting black mass in the vague shape of a large rectangle, snorting in your direction as she carefully shoves it into an unoccupied locker, tendrils of Void resonance doing their best to prevent from being contained.
>Poorly.
"Doubt it, unless you wanna go to Caneighdia and try your luck with those asshats."
*"Don't have to be that snide about them. Finder's rights on a shipment this old? Not likely."*
*"Unless there happens to be an object or several inscribed with a herd-name, or names, which I sincerely do not think we will find, this is now the property of Razorback. Along with a twenty-five percent finder's issue for Katyal since Dul has declined any claim."*
*"Can I just say.. swiggity swooty, I came for the booty! And I was NOT dissatisfied!"*
>Lonestar and the avatar facepalm at roughly the same time.

>Exiting the Landbarge after four deliveries of mixed gems, Hodch glances to his left, freezing upon spotting.. SOMEthing glowing on top of the last floating pile.
>Briefly and physically considering whether or not to panic, among other possibilities, he relents as the strange object pulses in dark blue and neon turquoise.
"That... I did not see. Nor expect. Dul, was this object one you brought up from the container?"
>Paused from setting a barstock of early diamondine across her saddle, the Siren looks up.
>And immediately regrets her decision.
>Taking on an utterly dumbfounded expression, she visibly twitches in and out of physical spectrums, dropping the bar through both the Riftdrowers and herself.
>Which seemed to serve no purpose other than potentially calming herself.
>Ending the rapid flickers with a rapid head shake, her face turns flat as she regards the peculiar object.
"No. Dul not see it. Dul not smell it. Dul not hear it. Dul not feel it."
"What's the commotion? Just hold a secon-"
>Katyal takes a step out onto the left ramp, head turning, eyes widening, loses her balance, and slips down on her ass.
>Hard.
<Saddle Arabian> "!#%*"
>The avatar notes her unexpectedly slow recovery with a sincerely amused note, the woman sitting up and grimacing.
"Holy Moonbutt on the Moon, THAT'S a Sphaler Core! Uh, also called Sphalerite. Damn it, should've worn my spiked boots-"
>Dul takes a single, awkward step backwards, one elongated claw pointing at the lightly pulsing, odd Core, although the Riftdrowners once again patiently lift the bar onto her.
"Dul... not want smell it."
"Ehh, they don't have a scent and won't hurt you anyways, they're safe for anyone or anypony to touch. Usually. Give me a minute, might have pulled something-"

>Merely leaning sideways and back to visually, but nothing more, inspect the odd gem-like object, Hodch's coat ripples in a series of rarely seen approving motions.
>Lifting the pile's remainder into a sphere, it floats off towards the OT-4's rear while he turns, eyes tightening as he surveys the Sphaler dropping onto ground.
>Waiting precisely one second, he nods.
*"This explains nothing, and yet, so much. Lone, would you happen to have a plastic bag available?"*
*"What makes you think I'd even know where to find one? I don't have anything other than my bags, and I don't trust that thing! Should've gotten one of those radioactive containers, fucking knew it-"*
*"Relax, this is not one of the FAILED Dynasty experimarents. At least, shouldn't be. Option B it is!"*
>Turning an exceptionally pointed stare at Katyal, the ghosts of several thousand smirks forms as he.. ..heartily kicks the dully pulsing Core towards her.
>Landing against her left thigh and bouncing off, Katyal emits a subdued, heavy sigh, left hand reaching out to, gingerly, pick it up for a cursory examination.
"Thanks, really. That's nice of you. Gifting horses and whatnot. Might take you up on that wing offer later, would be more useful tha-"
>Doing a sharp double take, both hands grasp the Core tightly, shaking it in front of her face once, twice, then a third, peering intently.
"Wat."
>Brightening several degrees each motion, her jaw drops, then recovers.
"Is this for real!?"
>Quickly stands up despite a short pained twitch, holding it outstretched with utter glee.
"It is! Didn't explode or melt my hands! This one's in the Damaged classification, but at least it isn't Flawed. Isn't unstable, fractured, or.. can't remember what the other one is right offhoof."
*"Can we discuss it later and get moving, please?"*
*"Yeah yeah, cool your... wait, your ride doesn't have jets. Comin' in!"*

>Turning around, rather stiffly, Dul watches the First Responder nearly jump into the Landbarge with a near-equine gaze of, marginally, subdued horror.
"Dul not want taste it first."
*"Mostly tastes like dirt. Also fairly cool. Wonder if it can freeze stuff?"*
*"...OH, FUCKING REALLY!? What if you get cancer!?"*
>Clopping by in a faux-smooth, thoroughly hurried walking pace, the Reservist makes a poor effort to hide a painfully spreading grin.
"I love my job."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389849
389851
image.png
>>389843
>Slow and creaking as glacial ice, Amethyst sat up in her bed, bleary eyed and unfocused.
>With a steady heave of the fillyest of sighs, she simply slumped forwards and flopped back onto the bed face down.
>Flat as a pancake, arms outstretched, hindlegs now occupying the space where her head formerly was. Contacting all of the surface area she could to absorb any remaining cold spots in the sheets.
":3"
>She could go back to sleep right here and now, it was very tempting.
>Instead the ipotane rolled directly off the side of the bed and impacted the floorboards with a resounding thump and not so much as an attempt to brace against the fall.
"No good. The floor is colder."
>One second has passed.
>Two seconds have passed.
>Three, four, five...
>Amy snorted herself back from sleep and drew her hands back in, pressing against the floor and rising to her hooves.
>Taking a moment to wrap herself in her robe, she snatched a pillow from the bed and one of the puppets from her nightstand, shuffling out of her room to join in the commotion.
>Perhaps even upgrade it to pandemonium.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389851
389852
>>389849
>There were no more cool spots on the bed, at least none that made themselves available.
>Unfortunately.
>Finding the last few traces on the floor and devouring them, they weren't quite enough.

"Fffff-"
>He wasn't snickering outside the door.
>Oh no, not at all.
>Two heavy, ponderous thuds shake the house, a static-laden chortle simply heralding yet another attempt to keep somepony from unnaturally expiring due to extreme temperature-induced laziness.
"LILA! UP!"
"Do you have to shout, mare? She is ignoring you."
"And how do you know that?"
"I heard her laugh."
"From inside your helmet?"
"Yes, in case you do not remember aiding me in placing together the troublesome radio systems!"
"How does that tell you she was laughing?!"
"Do you NOT see the diving board shaking right now, mare!?"
"No, I don't! Now how DID you hear her from this distance, from that high up, and through the window?!"
"I SWEAR-"

>Ignoring the not-actually-swearing of a new round focused on bickering over variables which were definitely too far away, upon collecting the slightly fresher pillow, this one felt marginally cold enough to last for at least a minute.
"Ahhh, she is finally awake. Most excellent timing."
>Leaving the voice behind as you nudge the door open, as you look into the hallway...
>Yep, it had changed.
>Of course.
>Staring into the den now, the double pair of dimly glowing couches and extremely overbuilt sofa hadn't been rearranged, nor was the table covered in bits, pieces, or chunks of failed projects.
>Instead, three large plates and the giant platter were set around the precision aligned cluster of bowls.
>Which were empty.
>And not unusual.

"LILAMAREDRE!"
>Now that one shook the windows.
"Mare, if you persist in pestering her, she may decide to fly off and not return for a week."
"I hope she does not. As I was stating, I have ponifally scouted the entrance and partially explored the main, secondary, and tertiary branching sections. It is, for all intents and purposes, clear enough to proceed."
>It was THAT snooty voice.
>The Baronness was, indeed, here.
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389852
389856
1407557035223.png
>>389851
>Even without the shouting, Amy could sense the emotions swirling around, Lila's mischief was palpable.
>Or someone's mischief was.
>It might have been hers.
>She was definitely going to make it hers.
>Still clutching the pillow and the puppet, Amy set about collecting a single glass and a handful of coals from the pantry.
>Bringing both to the table she set the glass near to, but not perilously so, the edge of the table and very deliberately dropped one at a time, allowing them to audibly clink against the glass.
>The noise reverberated slightly through the house, if one were inattentive, they would not hear it.
>Once filled, Amethyst sat down at the table before the glass and slowly...
>Deliberately.
>Delicately.
>Placed a single fingertip against the top of the glass and pressed, causing it to tip slightly.
Anonymous
bb4ba2a
?
No.389855
Glad to see you guys are still playing here. Have a nice game.
The 0th Rng.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389856
389860
>>389852
>There was usually an end to the pegasi's lazily devious nature, although it didn't quite taste like she was intending to be difficult.
>At least that's what the next shout mostly proved.
"-one of them have been thoroughly retrofitted to such an extent that YOU only allowed one in each thousandth piece due to perceived flaws, fractures, and one-millionth degree disharmonic tones! I CAN hear her laugh, on the diving board, WHEN she is trying to be quiet, through the system IN my helmet!"

>Opening the pantry door to find it.. painfilly overstocked, like usual, the small selection of coals available had dwindled.
>There might only be enough left for three weeks.
>Or in her case, three hours.

"Then why didn't you say so the first time I asked?!"
"Mare, I have stated each precise variable to which you have asked such questions of, TWICE now!"
"Well... you didn't say it all at once like you just did!"
"How is that my fault, mare?!"
"...why is it every single time I am here, this occurs? Both of you, silence. I have had enough nonsense from one word by King Tachell to last me both of your lifetimes a hundredfold."

>Feeling the pillow nearly reaching critical temperature, the three in the meeting room settle.
>Mostly.
>At least until you hear the oversized wooden table shift.
"Did any-"
"Oh for th-"
"What i-"
>It was too late.
>It was always too late.
>Spectacular lightshows flicker into existence through all the windows, which are instantly followed by aery half-screeching rapidly approaching the den's skylight.
"DON'T YOU DARE PUT WATER ON THEM!"

>One muffled voice drifts from your room.
"I cannot begin to imagine a more glorious start to this everday!"
Razorback Fortress: The Hangar
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389858
389900
>>389767
>Projecting himself once more into a slightly more efficient seated image, Tox-11's shoulders lift in a heavy motion.
'eh. not all the tin cans are blind, dumb, stupid, arrogant, insane, xenophobic, or worse. just most of them. should have you meet the other one'
>The sub-Phaeric Lord turns in what seemed to be the Guardsman's path, raising one black finger off the Techstave in warning.
>But quickly stops, resorting to tapping the glowing surface with a tone which was best described as technically amused.
'Your words bear untold labyrinths of agony in their truth. What and where is this other one you speak of?'
'something we keep forgetting to check on. not important right now'

>Somewhere, possibly not too far away, and maybe not all that different in height, two gears begin slowly, deliberately grinding together.
>Angrily.

>Taking quite the notice, Raindrop's face creases into standard laughter suppression protocols.
>Which don't hold long as a wide, potentially sanctioned smile breaks out.
"You're alive, healthy, and have no new scars. Isn't that plenty? Besides, I really like your mane."
>Ears swiveling forwards, her eyebrows twitch before releasing a quiet snicker and pushing her hoof into your hand gently.
"Now that's the spirit I needed to hear. You take the ground, I've got the sky. No more looking or talking down on yourself, got it? There's plenty of targets to do that for you."

>Leaning back several inches, the mare's eyes close with a sharp expression of discontent.
>Her right wing lifts up in a motion you didn't recognize, head shaking in small motions.
"Free Knights treat others how they desire to be treated, regardless of species. I would rather die in the Tunnels, Labyrinth, or over the Shoals than take advantage of another."
>Raindrop's head tilts to the left, wing settling against her side while studying you with a peculiar look.
>Which also doesn't last long as she offers a minutely embarrassed grin.
"The beds here are big enough for five or six humans to comfortably sleep on, so you don't have to hold me.. if you don't want to."
>Glancing above you, then back down to meet your eyes, she leans forwards to give a calm, slow nod, her warm hoof rolling small circles in your hand.
"Then, as marefriends we agree to share what we know the other enjoys, take the duties the other prefers not to, and..."
[1d6 = 5]
>Flickers of emotion crossing her face, she does nothing to stifle a humiliated sigh.
"Remind me when I forget my saddlepack."

>Patting your palm with her hoof once more, the raspberry mare retracts it with a wide, hungry gaze down at the still-steaming two tier platter.
"Now, help me finish as much of this as you can! Can't let any of this get cold because reheating it changes the taste, aaaand the Sea's Bounty Matron will beat me with a halberd if we don't return it empty."

[1d6 = 1] <Packages
[1d6 = 4] <Shipmarent Size
[1d6 = 3] <Interest
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389860
389862
>>389856
>A low giggle slowly built into devious chuckling and then into mischeivous laughter.
"Against all will this strategic point be held."
>Leaving the pillow on her lap, Amethyst now placed the puppet she carried on her free hand.
"Affix bayonets!~"
>Further the glass tipped, threatening to spill the water on top of the coals. Amy dared the enemy to come in after her.
>If the coals were to be rescued, then Lilamaredre would have to intervene. If she did not, the coals would be drenched, the fires lit from them would be wrong, and Lila would still have to get up in the end.
>But if she did, then the ipotane had but one weapon with which to defend herself, that being the slightly warm pillow whose cold bits she had already absorbed.
>She hummed with malicious yet harmless intent.
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.389861
389864
>>389848
>Pareidolia sighs at Lonestar's pun, shaking his head as he brushes off another layer of coins off of his arms into the troop bay of the OT-4.
>The clatter and jingles of riches mix with the sudden exclamations from Katyal. Hearing her shout prompts him to stop removing gems and coins from his back.
>Coming to a standstill at the top of the left ramp, he tilts his head to eye the so called Sphaler Core.
(Limited knowledge... apparently highly volatile?)

>He recoils slightly as it is kicked towards Katyal. As she examines and notes it isn't unstable, he relaxes and turns to head back towards the coinage pile.
"What is that core exactly? Rare and often volatile are already understood."
The 0th Level: War Horses
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389862
389866
>>389860
>Your taunt.
>That threat.
>It was different than the previous times.
>MOST of the previous times.
>You knew it.
>SHE especially knew it.
>....the other three probably knew a little bit.
>But she most certainly understood every ramification.
>Switching from the half-playful, partially sleepy Common pegasi screech to enraged, incomprehensible snarls, which wasn't a language you knew off hand or hoof, the den's skylight is assaulted.
>Four THOROUGHLY furious, much-too-bright-to-look-at-right-this-second hooves impact, fail to penetrate, crush, destroy, and kill, then exit the viewing portion.
>An immediate, sharp inhalation of breath later, and then-
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <E.Assault
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <B.Flurry
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <RAMPAGE
>vs:
[1d6+20 = (4+20) = 24] <Did he replace the last one properly?

>Would the skylight hold?
>Muffled shouting from Shades and Half-Shades pressed up against the windows.. couldn't quite agree.

"Should we... ..let them keep going?"
"I see no reason not to since Lilamaredre is now fully awake, mare. Or are you unable to reason with the situation as it exists?"
"Why do I ever come here? For what purpose am I to be held captive by these insane choices?"
"If you despise yourself that much, Baroness, then I invite you to look outside."
"Hm. I shall play thi- ...why does that Shade have a knife? .................WHERE DID THAT SHADE FIND A KNIFE!?"
"You tell me, Baroness. By the appearance alone it is not one of ours, nor is it one the Kratha have devised regardless of your best efforts to utilize all materials strictly for the purposes of construction."
"Okay, okay. Hold a minute. On my second thought, you did hear her laugh, right?"
"I do not lie so easily. When it became blatantly apparent to me Lila did not react to your words, tone, nor threats, mare. She has been awake for whom knows how long and was merely basking in the light."
"....men."
"What was that, MARE?!"
>The meeting room turning back into a physical scuffle was, fortunately, not that interesting compared to the Shades shouting for Lilamaredre to win, and the Half-Shades rooting for you.
>And they were equinely divided!
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389864
389924
Sphaler Core, Damaged.jpg
>>389861
>Turning around to face you, back out again, the advanced AI stops, twitches, stops again, stares, then throws her arms out wide and gives up.
'I should not have had nor neeeded to warn you about frosting yourself in front of mares sir, but here I am! Even IF the one particular mare is technically a Planar being with virtually no information regarding their individual tastes, preferences, or lack thereof, I am NOW warning you!
I am sincerely REQUESTING you cease making yourself less of a potential sexual target, though that time has most likely currently passed and I am no longer capable of advising you further! You have been warned!'
>Huffing, loudly, belligerently, and somewhat angrily, she begins throwing figurative and technological gestures at the Rerculon system.
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12] <R-AEHI Mass-Calculation Algorithms
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]

>Slowing to a stop before going up the right ramp, Hodch glances back to gaze you up and down, clearly excited by the unexpected finding.
"One of the most expensive, primally intuitive, yet least appreciated Middle Dynasty era experimarents! That my friend is what happens when several hundred to a thousand ponies attempts to compress two and a half million modern Bits worth of Mystic Ice gems into a single mass Elemarental utilizing a thoroughly unrecorded metamaterial compositing ritual!"
>Snagging the trailing end of the final pile before it could fall, and thoroughly coating yourself in heavy sapphirine, rubynine, emeraldine, quartzine, diamondine, and even a few silverine coins, it takes a few seconds to haul yourself up the same ramp into the Landbarge.
>Pausing to shake off in the center while the rear hatches close, Dul pops through the right side, dragging the diamondine barstock with her.

>Quickly rubbing her hands together, then throwing the trace, lingering Void essences towards the locker where she'd stuffed the massive Void-Flux ingot into, Katyal sits back down on her chosen up front passenger side seat, tossing an honestly irate stare at the unicorn.
"Hodch, explain better and faster next time instead of gloating over every single pony at the Canterlot College that hasn't seen one.
Quick as I can: have you ever tried to make maple syrup? I'm gonna say the answer is 'no', so here's an equivalent: it takes about forty gallons of maple water to be boiled down into a gallon of syrup, anywhere from six to ten hours. Sphaler Cores in compariso are about a five-hundred to one concentration and condensing of the Tallus Ice Elemarental into a SOMEWHAT stable version. That's five hundred Mystic-class gems merged into one singular object.
Damaged simply means the gems themselves weren't properly aligned, whether Elemarentally or not, so whether they were actually damaged doesn't matter, but when you're dealing with that sheer number it's to be expected some don't or can't align properly. Thus: Damaged classification. Most Sphalerites just detonated after the ritual's apex. Any that didn't..."
>Turning a longing, grief-ridden stare at the bizarre hexagonal Core, Katyal speaks in a low reverent tone.
"Dude... I really don't know how to say this other than that is a gently contained, near-infinite, genuince source of the best and deepest Ice Elemerantal properties, even if it's kinda volatile. There's no sapience, sentience, semi or demi, to piss around with. Yeah, it's a bit touchy, and you don't wanna draw more from it than can safely be extracted, but none of us could deplete it in our lifetimes.
...you ever seen or felt something that might as well be holy? This thing's just a taste of what the Dynasty could've done."

>Sitting down right in the OT-4's center, on the left side of the display screen, Dul's head swivels around, her gaze landing on you for several seconds.
>Face tightening with a deeply troubled expression, as if trying to read your mood, yet wasn't able to, she turns back to speak at the woman in a halting, slow marener.
"It not bad like other stuffs from Dynasty?"
>Head shaking in short, fast motions, Katyal turns both hands palm up with an expression of pure, bitter honesty towards the Siren.
"No, it isn't. Look, much as I hate Silver she wasn't fully responsible for most of the failed artificial or faked Cores. Ponies, Gryphons, Harpies, Minotaurs, and all of the others, they got desperate. For what reasons during the Late Dynasty, I DON'T know. Fact is they succeeded more often than they failed, but when they did fail those results were horrific.
That thing right there proves they were onto some weird quirk of magic, science, resonance, and whatever else, that would've changed Tallus. And I... really hate the fact that they didn't."
"Regardless of all previous factors and knowledge, let's take a look to see what it truly appears as, hm?"
>Hearing no instant denial, Hodch plops down next to Dul, gesturing a hoof at the blacksteel cube which floats to him.
>Settling the horrendously placed sphere on top, he raises both hooves-
>And smacks them down.
>Fracturing the sphere, what gets revealed.. isn't quite what you expected.
"....Dul say is really pretty."
"Hexagonal structure like the rest I've seen. Least that doesn't change"
*"Hodch.. you uh, sure that was safe?"*
"Katyal didn't turn into finely frozen mist, which meant the sphere was nothing more than a protective barrier. Yes, I was QUITE sure."

>Attention turning straight towards you, Katyal's eyes visibly harden, yet soften a moment afterwards.
"I barely know you, you barely know me. I get it, you DON'T like me, but I truly do need to know something. Tell me this much at least: did the Spiral you know, before he fall apart, have an Ice form, a Crystalline form, a combination of both, or was it too difficult to tell the differences between either?"
>Pointing directly towards the Core, her face hardens in an unrecognizable mood.
"Because that, depending on HOW we treat it, could become either one."
[1d6 = 1] <Mindscape: Control
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389866
389869
image.png
>>389862
>Amethyst stood and raised one hand, puppet clad with a single, simple Imperial Guardsman to the heavens, the Guardsman's tiny bayonet affixed lasgun raised in defiance of the descending terror.
>What was violence for, truly? For blood and for skulls? The ravings of madmen lost without purpose. For honour and for acclaim? Vanitas Vanitatum.
>There was but one proper reason to invoke the supreme authority of violence, and that was in order to survive. The purest of victories was to simply endure when all others do not or could not, and to employ the most brutal of cunning to direct one's violence towards that end.
>To. Hold. The. Line.
>The filly held her incredibly heroic pose, Guardsman to the sky, her other free hand still threatening to tip the glass over.
>She began to hum.

[YouTube] Q-Factory - Eternal Empire [Embed]

[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] < B. Singing
[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3]

[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] < B. Reaction Speed
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8]

[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] < B. Crystal Runes + Power
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8]

>And sent her pillow hurtling skyward just as THE ENEMY! >:3 broke through the skylight. Aiming the fluffy projectile for her face as the pegasus propelled herself downward.
>All this with the wildest laughter, the most gleeful of grins!
The 0th Ring: HORSE WAR
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389869
389894
>>389866
>The angle felt right.
>However, the Great Enemy's approach would most likely arrive at a specific juncture when her rage-infused strength would no doubt overcome the double-paned crystalline composites at a specific-
>Right there, of course.
>Bayonet thrusting forth as a spear, the Guardsman's jaw clenches at burning hooves shattering through in eye-searing colorations.
"FOR GLORY ETERNAL, WE HOLD THIS LINE!"

>Launching the now much too warm to hold pillow upwards at maximum speed, the blazing pegasi's enraged face disappears via a sincerely hard, and utterly satisfactory, *POMF* straight to the snoot.
>Losing most of her directional cues, Lilamadre's hooves and wings splay outwards in random directions, attempting to regain control...
>But it was always too late.
>Smashing chest first into the table, rather close to the cup, it tips upwards as the filly rebounds-
>And spills the entire glass, ALL over each coal in their mid-flight.
>How.
>Absolutely.
>Terrible.
>Meanwhile, Lilamadre crashes and rolls into the oversized sofa face first, which also flings the carefully set bowls, three plates, and platter straight into the large bay window, only to bounce off.
>Landing in complete disarray, pillow stuck to her face, Lila IMMEDIATELY inhales every last iota of warmth from while table tips on its legs, top facing her.
>Meanwhile, the tableware clatters in a giant mess all around you, though one bowl does graze your right thigh.
>To which the Half-Shades go WILD with their cheers.
"....I'm going to bake your fingers."
>Muttered in an absolutely, perfectly, no doubt purely calm tone.

>One helmet, one taller mare, and a stocky, shorter mare peek out from the meeting room's barely cracked open door.
"She is fully awake, as I told you earlier, MARE. ...and Baroness."
"This is normal for Lilamaredre and Amy, yes?"
"Really hard to give a solid answer on that... mostly because a certain MAN won't agree to asking certain questions!"
"I have told you this more than enough times: how should I know!? Both of them do what they want! I will not control their actions nor would I!"
"...."
"....."
"......so! You said they can leave whenever they're ready, yes?"
"To be quite fair? Sometimes I don't know which of you I hate more. It is often a mystery, even to me.
I will ready both sleds and check in with the Guardians.
And ensure they have a feast because once that portal opens, I am NOT carrying either of them. Likewise I cannot believe I will be dragging almost two tons through that wretched mess of tunnels."
"Then we shall set for duskfast. Unless you have a better idea, Baroness?"
"No, I do not. And keep those dried Kerbann slices out, I find them hideous at the best of times. Fresh is ever the best."
"As it was and so it were-"
"MEN!"
"MEN!"
"Do I have to punch BOTH of you now?!"

>Muffled speaking from your room mixes in a variety of accents.
"Such a waste, now it will take minutes to set the table properly!"
"Inefficient yet thoroughly elegant, a most commarendable effort I say."
"A MOST GLORIOUS VICTORY! Her defeat was never in doubt!"
"Brave and capable, though not accurate."
"Weren't you going to say something as well?"
"WHAT!? I am not BLIND, nor am I DEAF! I could HEAR her PERFECTLY EXCEPTIONAL WIN! Unlike YOU, fool, I know whom to bet upon!"
"Figures you'd say that."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389894
389918
>>389869
>Grinning at the Kaos caused, Amy took a bow for the Half-Shades outside, the Guardsman doing likewise for the victory achieved and the show provided.
>Turning back towards Lilamaredre, she held up her hands in placative surrender, one still puppet clad.
"Uheee~. Please don't do that, I need them to replace the coals!"
>She strode over and planted a single finger on Lila's snoot.
"And to boop with."
>Looking around at the mess she caused, Amy set about cleaning up, picking up the plates, bowls and tableware scattered around and replacing them at the table with fresh and undamaged ones.
>The poor and sodden coals, however, were a total loss. According to Lilamaredre, they wouldn't 'burn right', making the flames unsuitable for grazing. There were more coals stored away, and she could always gather more, though if they truly were leaving for the world above this day, then this would be the last of the Kerbann derived coals Lila would get for a while.
"I think, maybe, we can get some coking coal later. I don't know how we're going to light it without throwing you into a blast furnace though."
>She snickered at the mental image that came forth from the idea.
>Examining one of the wet coals being held up by the Guardsman puppet, Amy nodded sagely. There was no saving them, they were thoroughly soaked, they simply had to go.
Mallia Castella
!YEzfvp.1ZQ
c61f7b5
?
No.389900
389920
>>389858
(--The other one?-)
>Instant, immediate, intense interest is registered on every level. A spike of curiosity sharp enough to cause a processing lag of about 0.2 seconds. Mallia’s projection locked onto Tox-11 with such sudden focus, the data-stream stuttering with the raw, unfiltered excitement. The Sub-Phaeric Lord speaking stabilises her, as if the Necron speaking constantly reminded her to be disciplined.
(True. Raindrop Raspberry is higher priority...)

>Mallia, in the meantime, has this amusingly lopsided smile on her face while Raindrop's laughter suppression protocol fails.
>This is followed by a beaming, sunny smile from Mallia that was so uniquely naive and oddly content with the situation. She even nudged back back the hoof's pressure, just a little, like her hand was answering the hoof.

>Despite being completely out of her depth, this wasn't so bad? Fraternizing with xenos.
>Maybe things are going to be okay...?

>Then, Mallia's brow arches a bit from having her hair complimented. Eyes shifting with another hint of bashfulness,
>It prompts Mallia to bring a hand to her hair to brush it a few times as she digests the compliment... exhaling softly, chuffing through her nose. Mulling over one of Raindrop Raspberry's statements. The one that asked her not to talk or look down at herself.

>Mallia sighed faintly, a sad but genuine smile playing on her lips. Her eyes drooped just a touch, as if the weight of that thought finally settled.
"Iiiiii promise to do my best in not self-deprecate?"
>Her smile purses slightly and she doesn't sound particularly certain on that note; cheeks unable to be anymore flushed than they were.
>Mallia's head then tilts slightly, visibly glancing off into the space between them in thought as she ponders the thought of being held...
"Mm... Hmmm. Hhm."
"I don't... know...? Maybe. I could be persuaded..."
>Her voice trails off, slightly lowering her head and looking at Raindrop Raspberry with what might've been a hesitant, or maybe coy? glance.

>Her mechadendrite hums, slightly shifting and snaking against her side.

>Then her brow furrowed just slightly. She's still pondering the prospect when the Knight makes that strange expression, and makes that sigh.
>Mallia smiled brightly, and promptly breaks into a mirthful giggle in response.
"You definitely won't need to worry about forgetting your saddlepack then, that's for sure."
>And she casts a look down as she felt that hoof-pat on her hand, and their retracting the hoof. The Enginseer almost seemed sad, for a second, a tiny frown flickering in her eyes.

>Then likewise, finally, looks down at the food. She suddenly remembered she was hungry the moment she looked away from the Free Knight and gazed at the delicious food. Mallia uses her now free hands to make a soft clap and a rub of her hands!

"Okay!! Never had this much food in my entire life. We're going to see how much stomach capacity I've got!"
>Mallia's mechadendrite comes out from beside her as she makes an excited, forward lean and looks down again, looking those for those Charred Moors Saphor-Stalk she had requested to try first, and hurries to pluck a bit of it with her hand to try her first bite of xenofood. Being used to the nutrient paste the more senior tech-priests forced her to eat most of the time out of efficiency, it would be impossible to disappoint her.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389918
389973
>>389894
>Outside, the massed numbers deliver one final cheer before a Kratha motions towards the closest young Kerbann in view.
>They were still concerned about the failure rates of planting more, and it was considered late in the everday judging by the muted, darker hues.
>Easily separating into those whom were still salvaging, tending, on construction and guard duties, the Half-Shades vanish, either to check on the Gates, or teach but mostly play with a few puppies.
>Or, far more likely, annoy King Tachell until he got off his lazy legs to check on the Well.
>...why DID that Shade have a knife?

>Motionless long enough to feel every last trace of collected heat within the den surge towards Lila, the filly's gold pupils narrow into fine dots at the approaching puppet.
"Just one then. Lightly."
>Snout twitching on contact twice, the rest of her royal blue eyes glint as she turns a figurative bonfire glare up towards the Shades.
"Traitors-"
>Spoken muffledly with zero threat as she rolls onto her chest, standing up and flinging the pillow onto the closest couch.
>Wings shaking out, stamping several times on each hoof, then arching her back for a well deserved stretch, the pegasi settles for a heavy, relaxing mane shake.
>Even if she didn't need to.
>Head swinging to sniff at the soaked coals, her lips pull back in chagrin.
"Six to eight days before they dry out. If we are truly leaving this time, your sire and dam won't be cooking as much. They should have approximately three weeks remaining. Two if the Baroness continues visiting."
>Licking her lips at the thought of a blast furnace, Lilamaredre's eyes rotate towards the meeting room door closing.
"I have studied a method to create explosives from two or more materials. Controlling chemical and magical chain reactions is not too difficult, thus suitably light elemarents would catch fire. Oooor... I.. could-"
>And there was that rare sigh.
"Expend a small amount of my Elemarental reserves."

>Finding only a few chips and fractures on the damaged tableware, the pantry's extra stock was-
>More than sufficient to last for half a decade.
>Why did she keep making more from castoff pieces if they weren't expected to withstand being tossed around?
>Nopony knew.
>HE did, but all you ever got was a batpony-Shade-at-the-wrong-timing-and-Gate stare.
>...maybe he didn't know.

"Here, I'll put them outside to dry. Just give me a second to prepare-"
>Wing extended, though not without several feather twitches to show her revulsion for water-covered objects, Lilamaredre prepares to grimace.

>The meeting room door opens, only the Baroness exits in her typical calm, yet purposeful stride.
>For some reason, she'd actually polished the metallic spiraling grooves on her horn, though it was a no robe everday.
>Halting to take a polite sniff, one eyebrow raises at the pegasi, then towards you accompaneighed by a sincere nod.
"A most excellent Dusk to you both. I have been asked to sanction a celebratory feast, and have agreed wholeheartedly. However, King Tachell is.."
>Trailing off to find the proper swear words for later, the unicorn mare sighs dejectedly.
"Unlikely to arrive in time. He believes there may be an older destroyed Gate which ought be rebuilt."
Razorback Fortress: The Hangar
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389920
>>389900
>MIU finally cracking into the M2 era datavaults, it was primarily a compendium of events, listed by second, minute, hour, day, month, then year, related to the formation of numerous kingdoms, empires, corporate, and religious entities.
>Rapidly skimming through and comparing what was known, the origins of some were definitively stranger than the often violent debates Magos held over deciphering Terra's murky, terribly incomplete past.
>Notes appended to each confirmed major event indicated the Ordo Chronos had ensured the data was indeed correct, though left no answers as to how they had come across such precious knowledge.
>Scanning the absurdly poor and awful system-attack vectors... such shameful coding spaghetti.
>Even the worst Tech Adepts you could think of would consider defending against THOSE to be an all expense paid luxury vacation.

>Staring at each for three-point-six-one-eight nanocycles, the Guardsman and sub-Phaeric Lord exchange a vast stutter of unencoded data related to a ridiculous number of explosives, various portable launchers, and designs for some type of... near-fractal gel based on local magic.
>Granting a short bow, at least that's what it appeared to be, the Necron E.I. blips off.
>Tox-11 motions towards three Fortress bandwidths being assigned directly to your MIU for additional processing capacity.
'tech vault and datastacks under library now keyed to you excluding restricted access. dont know if most of the prototypes or experimentals are complete enough to use yet, but Flash left her tools out
theres a selection of native weapons down there as well. mostly polearms. access interface records for each before opening, some are dangerous enough to warrant being locked in an auramite equivalent'
>Pausing long enough, that being six nanocycles, to radiate an uncomfortable digital signature, the heavy man motions towards the pegasus before returning to the unholy task of file sorting.
'enjoy your time'

>Giving a firm nod, Raindrop's right wing extends forwards to point at your chest briefly.
"Good! There's more than enough dangers around that you won't want to have the extra weight of thinking negatively, Mallia.
Besides, it's considered an honor to share one's burdens among Free Knights and most marecenaries. If you know something and don't like it, tell me. Even if I can't aid you, I will always try."
>A subtly relieving smile on her lips holds for two seconds, glancing upwards with a marery air.
"You should know pegasi are one or two degrees warmer than most ponies. Ferron and Saddle Arabians excluded. There's also a few thousand extra blankets stored in the Enclave if you need more warmth at night."
>Eyebrows wiggling briefly, that was definite humor.
>And maybe a little bit of challenge.
>Head tilting slightly right, her gaze drops down to study your features with a solidly confident expression.
"It's settled. I hereby proclaim us marefriends; to the first of victories until the last drink!"
>Raindrop Raspberry will remember this~

>Right eyebrow arching, the left remains dangerously flat for a quarter-second as she considers your words.
"I should feel angry but knowing how limited some human worlds are for resources.. mostly, I'm annoyed. But now you get to start eating right!"

>Pointing out an organic cylinder container made from a large coastal bamboo, which the MIU blips all Terra native species had been rendered extinct, it turns out to be a finely ground blue powder.
>The scent held a cool, arid, semi-sweet and unusually earthy berry fragrance with a hint of smoke flavoring.
>Finding it tasted mostly the same, save for the smoky tang sticking longer, a local dataplex from Tracker opens, displaying zero questionable enzymes, molecules, vitamins, minerals, amino-acids, or fats present in nearly all equine foods.
>Likewise was a thorough lack of bacterium, chemicals, and a staggering variety of contaminants which were considered normal throughout Imperium standards.
>You would certainly be warned if something was questionable, and of course the scouts would want to know everything first..
>Pointing out which seafoods and fruits the saphor-stalk would taste best on, at least according to her, Raindrop motions to the second cylinder of real sea salt.
>The chili powder was a moderately spicy though tasty variety, likewise smoked for better flavor, and the second you even thought of drinks, Raindrop's wings stretch behind her, pushing two small clear bottles towards you while retaining four for herself.
>Denoting each bottle as diamond, the first one contained a slightly alcoholic apple cider of a known, healthy variety, the second listed as Crystal Empire spring water, zero contaminants other than minute crystalline traces.

>Flicking a stainless steel blade out from underneath each primary, the raspberry mare settles in to spear either fruit or seafood, one type at a time, rolling each into small leaves designated as efflo, then tosses a profusion of select spices into each before rolling it together.
>And immediately begins scarfing them down.
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
dfd0466
?
No.389924
389944 389945
....jpg
>>389864
>He gives a confused glance and an arched eyebrow to his AI assistant as she returns to her interfacing with the OT-4's control system.
"Noted, but I am not interested in any mares. Any advances would be pointless."

>Remaining quiet as he makes his way back to his jumpseat, he lowers himself in and props his elbows on his knees to steeple his gloves.
>As Hodch finishes his somewhat unhelpful explanation, Pareidolia begins to remark:
"... That explains its nature, but not its function. I should have been more spe-"

>Katyal, apparently irritated, interjects. He nods along with her explanation but stills and begins to sit up as the gravity of the find sets in.
"I see... then they were on the verge of uncovering and perfecting efficient Fusion equivalent energy sources. An incredible find that belies its appearance."
>He turns his visored helmet to stare at the sphere containing this apparent wonder core as he speaks to himself.
"Then the fall of the Dynasty resulted in a major technological setback and a backwards step from increasing their civilization's type ranking... "

>Rubbing his chin with his right hand he looks towards Dul as she speaks with Katyal, missing Dul's initial glance of concern.
(Likely wariness gained from experience dealing with the Dynasty's fallout on current historical affairs.)
>He subconsciously flinches as Hodch cracks the casing open despite the Sphalerite's apparent inertness.
>Regarding it with some curiosity, he assesses it with an enhanced visual picture via his helmet's camera. Katyal's question causes him to spare her a glance.
"Anything pertaining to retrieving Spiral is mission relevant, and I have no objections about sharing that kind of information. He had a combination form of both ice and crystal. Why?"

>Her reply prompts him to freeze and then turn to stare at her.
"-How?"
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Part #1/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389944
389945 389966
>>389924
>Sighing, the avatar displays a series of stillshots, Dul turning unusual and, using the basic AI's knowledge, possibly appreciative, if not more, gazes towards you while carrying the heavier objects.
>Logging a note detailing flashiness as being highly attractive to equines, and a quarter of native Tallus species, the advanced model settles for holding her face.
'Men.'

>Veritably swimming now, Hodch tosses a good natured smile your direction as both ears flick in apologetic motions.
"My apologies, that was nearly as exciting as finding pieces of a Lunar floatplate!"

>A single cross-reference and two comparisons later, 'Shiibo' bristles in an image of remarkable disgust.
'Sufficiently advanced magic should be interchangeable with equally advanced technology. Imagine variable fusion reactions, elemental or otherwise, without radiation, hazardous elements, chemical waste, or ruining the entire infrastructure chain of a country rendering near-complete autonomy from external power structures, sir.
This may be why Katyal's anger is so deeply set given her world's decently high technological basis. Carefully ask a question relating to suspected, probable, or known indicators of Empress Silver sabotaging experiments. If you find the time to.'

>Poking at the Sphalerite with increasing sureness, the woman's eyes snap high and left in recall.
"Differences between ice as a widespread, common Elemarent compared to Mystic-classed ice are the overall compression and energetic availability. Ice can be in a lot of places, but the Mystic version is far more dense, requiring suitable conditions to form. Right?"
"The simplified explanation will suffice, yes."
"Differences between crystalline materials and Rime is composition. Can't turn Rime into anything lower on the crystalline Elemarental periodic table, even after it eventually breaks down into its smallest molecular traces. Those same traces are a necessity for, uh, finish that one please?"
>Thoroughly surrounded, head barely over the piles, Hodch begins picking through the gems, tossing nearly all into a small Moon-colored gateway.
"Of course, and I'm glad you've spent some time studying. To finish her sentence: biocrystalline tissues. Each Crystal pony is born with a necessary amount of Rime which inevitably increases. Later in life, age forty or so, individuals can begin extracting those safer, stabilized traces without endangering their own biological or resonant functions. The one you are carrying is-"
>Pausing to stare upwards, he continues with slight chagrin.
"Naliyna did not have all of the necessary tools, so I would give that one an eight-point-three out of ten. Slightly above excellent, in sum."
"Uh huh. What about the other weird crystal stuff?"
"I only have knowledge from records which are openly available to Starborn and a few pieces here or there.
During the Middle Dynasty era, Crystal Lorekeepers toyed with the idea of producing a near-Rime state via careful molecular alignmarent, combined with the usage of Air and Gravity based Faux-Natural Cores. It was effectively similar to the particle synthesis methods unicorns make extensive use of, but also more crude than the human version Lonestar has described to me.
Of course, they had numerous Temples set aside for their own usage, and Silver rarely visited them outside of congratulating a major success. A significant number of explosions, flash freezse, ruined materials, altered materials, and composites which they were unsure what to do with later, a complete cluster of artificial Rime was created. Solely on accident, mind you.
Sphalerite is thus one-third between artificial Rime, the various crystalline pseudo-Cores, and the fully classified Ice Cores."
>Glancing at Void-Flux tendrils weakly pushing against the locker, and giving up upon being fully resisted, Katyal sniggers before placing an even glance onto you, pointing a finger gun at the Sphalerite in her other hand.
"Better stay there or else hornhead's gonna turn you into a bunch of filly toys.
These were designed to go either way from what I know. Even in the Damaged state there might be enough resonance, energetic availability, and compressive potential to shift it. Isn't something I'm trained for though. Or Hodch. ..are you?"
"No, and I will need your weapon once we are done sorting, Pare. Refining Lunar enchantmarents is among my most favored activities."
"Hum, nevermind. An`Meliu, any suggestions?"
>The imprint of an absurdly normal, albeit every-color-at-once butterfly appears on Katyal's head.
>Freezing, both wings flap slowly, speaking in a fast language that might as well have been distant wind gusts, the woman blinking once.
"She says the probability ranges from 'kind of likel'y to a 'good' chance. We'd have to push the alignmarent hard without disrupting the, how would you call it?"
"Partially chaos state, outside of calling it a headache. At worst I can simply dump any runoff or effluvia into a weapon."
*"Not a bad idea. What's the chances of a catastrophic release that'll flash freeze everything in back?"*
>Floating a dimly pulsing red gem to his nose, the stallion frowns.
"Not impossible, merely negligible. We would have to completely remove containmarent and fully destabilize it for such to occur. The two formerly in Canterlot are in the Faux-Natural classification, though had been physically damaged due to idiotic experimarents.
Approximately six years ago they became entirely inert, only the faintest residual traces remaining."
*"So no dying then?"*
"A one in a hundred thousand chance."
*"Good enough for me."*
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Part #2/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389945
389966
>>389924
>>389944
>Placing the Sphaler Core in her lap, Katyal holds both hands palm upwards, which the mystical butterfly bends forwards at.
"Take a bottle of water and pour it into a cube mold to freeze at thirty degrees, that's this hand."
>Lifting the right up slightly.
"Now take that same volume bottle but mix a five percent salt water solution to pour into the same mold, but freeze that one at twenty-five degrees, that's this hand."
>Wiggling the left.
"Each one produces different stages of molecular alignment. Basic thermo-chemistry, I know, but consider the ramifications of what the Temples were doing, testing millions of alternate steps related to a simple process: making an ice cube.
With this we have to narrow down each factor specifically involved in creating an artificially contained but thoroughly natural Mystic-class Elemarental, something that-"
>Looking up at An`Meliu creeping forwards, the antennae twitch apart expectantly.
"She can visibly see. I think. I hope.. can you?"
>A short, tiny nod.
"I can suffice for an Earth Elemarental, Hodch... can basically do everything else. Except fo-"
>Quickly snapping to present an exasperated glare at her, the Reservist's stare reads somewhere between 'I know where you live' and 'I could eat your soul but don't want to, yet'.
>Clicking her tongue once, the woman's gaze travels right.
"Aaaaaanyway... I'm gonna inspect this thing a bit closer before I step on the wrong mine. Again."
>Picking up the Sphalerite in both hands, she leans in close, eyes closing while whispering faint, tracing words similar to Farsi.
[1d6 = 4] <B.Mysticism
[1d6 = 4]

>Poking at individual gems, Dul hoofs each over to the unicorn for safe keeping, though spares you an earth pony equivalent version of mollified.
'She has no idea what to say.'
[1d6 = 1] <Vortex Adapt
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6] <Siren's Gaze

*"All right, gonna kick into high gear. Hodch, wipe the traces off this thing would you, just.. a little more gently than last time. And mind giving me a digital hand little lady?"*
[1d6+20 = (2+20) = 22] <Maximum Speed
[1d6+20 = (3+20) = 23]
[1d6+20 = (3+20) = 23]
[1d6+20 = (1+20) = 21]
>Ceased from their perusals, both share a 'can I stop being interrupted?' stare, the unicorn merely snorting, then waves an oblique circle in the air with one hoof.
>Distinct, forceful pressures sweep across the Landbarge's exterior, leaving a peculiar spot on top alone.
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10]
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10] <GM.Mysticism: Cover-That-Which-We-Are
[1d6+9 = (4+9) = 13]
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10]
[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14]

"Happen to have any geology training, particularly identifying flawless gems? Haven't found any other unusual ones aside from the Falkite."
>Spoken towards you, the unicorn visibly intending to calm down through working rather than snap.
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9] <E.Research
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
dfd0466
?
No.389966
389970 389971 390083
>>389944
>Taking stock of the stillshots undeniably showing changes in Dul's form, Pareidolia half scoffs and sighs with an unamused look.
"Fine. Noted."

>He opts to provide an affirmative look towards Shiibo's display rather than verbally respond to her suggestion.
(It does beg the question. With pony and Dynastic culture and resources available, they should have easily achieved success.)

>Seeing Hodch begin sorting through the gem pile, he stands and makes his way over. Kneeling to assist in the sorting process.

[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]

>Other than nodding at Hodch and Katyal's explanations, he remains quiet until their lecture is complete.
"All that to say, this core happens to be the exact base composition we would need to repair that particular form of Spiral's core. The description of its creation process is yes, very similar to particle synthesis and human attempts to create or discover new elements on the periodic table."

>Ignoring Katyal's joke, he glances up from the gem pile as Hodch notes needing the only weapon in his arsenal that bears a Lunar enchantment.
"Understood."
>As the details of the process, jargon, and probabilities are discussed and finalized, he mentally notes that this is essentially a high risk, semi-uncontrolled fission experiment of some kind.
(Potential applications are staggering. But if this can be used to save Spiral then it must be.)

>>389945
>He looks up briefly at the odd companion butterfly so named "An'Meliu" as Katyal details the steps in this process, then as she begins her inspection speaks to Hodch.
"If the Dynasty under Silver's reign was conducting experiments like this at such scale, how was none of this progress kept into the present? I don't believe the other factions of this planet would have destroyed all records, and the applications of these research directions are apparent to even the uninitiated. Is there any information on Silver's own views on this work?"

>Noticing Dul's clear fish-out-of-water behavior, he shakes his head and holds up a hand to wave dismissively once.
"I wasn't expecting anything like this on this operation, you don't need to worry about contributing to something this complicated. Just keep doing what you are."

>Shaking his head at Hodch's question, he hefts a gem up for a closer inspection of any flaws on its facets.
"None. Only tangential exposure via research work involving minerals occasionally."
(Engineering typically had more interest in the practical applications of those...)
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Part #1/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389970
389971 390083 390089
>>389966
>Creating a desk to beat her digital head against, once, the avatar gives a simple thumbs up.
'I apologize sir, yet you must be more careful regarding physical attraction vectors. I do not thoroughly understand the vagaries of Human/Pony Relations, nor the reverse interactions thereof.
However I cannot suggest being aloof nor insensitive. In order to prevent physical, verbal, and other miscommunications, there are two common protocols which display a clear lack of interest. The first option is to perform the standard earth pony soft-honored-denial motion, like so-'
>Creating an earth pony wireframe model, it makes a strangely polite, slow stamping motion with the left rear hoof, likewise devising a human version performing nearly the same.
'It translates equally. Second is to, when with a specific pony whom may, has, or will, approach you with potentially unwanted advances, state you do not have the inclination towards such in a firm yet understanding tone.'
>A raucous smirk quickly forms, then disappears.
'If you can, sir.'
>Far more seriously now, 'Shiibo' stands at a strict parade attention pose.
'There is good news. While I have determined a 0% possibility to interdict Stalliongrad-aligned humans, I am able to confirm they are either unable to, or have refused, committing action against other humans. Studying the vast number of..'
>Not purposefully trailing off in suspense, the avatar cringes as a HUGE list of criminal acts scroll by, some of which you knew, others that weren't recorded, a few.. were definitely in categories of their own.
'From the lowest misdemeanors to potentially the highest of felonies, all committed humans of Razorback. Certain ponies included and excluded.
Stalliongrad's humans are clearly maintaining abnormally high standards, possibly with self-enforced levels of decorum and honorable conduct. Tower Guard interaction is a >95% factor.'

"There i-"
"No."
>Left hand lifting instantly in a 'correction' motion, Katyal points that forefinger at Hodch beginning to speak, hard eyes flicking towards you.
>It takes her a few seconds to inhale, jaw working before releasing in subdued annoyance.
"Not quite, dude. Here's the overall picture: which side, section, alignmarent, Elemarent, or other thousand plus possibilities was Spiral's Ice, crystalline, or combined form caused by and from? Hodch doesn't know for SURE which Cores were used, otherwise he'd have said so, and we can't make a good guess without knowing a whole lot more. Add that to the other-"
>Right hand lifting upwards and circling to indicate a round helmet, pointing at you with a minute jabs, she mouths 'can't say the restricted parts out loud'.
"Portions. Razorback, and you, can only extrapolate what's been seen, heard, felt, tasted, scented, and felt around his fractional states. That leaves us with a big potential option: this."
>Poking the Sphaler Core lightly.
"Damaged, sure. But if we get the alignmarent right, we could improve the Ice, Crystal, or mixed, version of Spiral from two to five grades. Body and ka both. Maybe even mind."
>Sitting back to think rather darkly on what she'd just said, the woman grimaces in sincere pain.

"Independence from the Dynasty is one factor since some ponies didn't like the giant melting pot idea. Changelings and Crystal ponies for example. The Dynasty did work for the most part, excluding select groups, believers, or ideologues. Preferring one's own species is another, but pretty small in comparison too. Distance between Temples and City-States to everywhere else is another factor, a tiny one though.
And when it comes down to asking about living standard advancemarents, better alloys, houses, you name it, there's rarely more than glowing regards.
The dislike against Silver started off as nothing, then crept up to most viewing her as an abomination right before her self-imposed Exile. I've got records from all over Saddle Arabia, most of them just aren't contiguous. Some places loved her, others didn't.
It's a mess, dude. Nopony can make honest sense of it all. I.. can't either."
>Returning to inspecting the Core, Katyal takes on a distant, hollow stare.
>Tossing piles into the gateway, Hodch offers a brief motion indicating his neutrality in the matter.
"Mainland Equestria was barely touched by the Dynasties. From nine to ten percent of earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns became part of said Dynasties throughout those eras, whereas less than one hundred batponies joined. Their records were either kept with survivors, not shared, inaccessible at current, weren't preserved, or simply have not been found or recovered.
The Crystal Kingdom, then Empire, maintained all of their records. Bear in mind they did not have access nor any care for non-crystalline endeavors. The, quite frankly, extreme advances to proto-power crystals, ExoFrames, Crystal alchemy, and far more have, to be blunt, not been yet been overshadowed."
>Irritation tinging his last few words, the Reservist glances up to regard you with a grim face.
"As for the Rams, Sheep, Gryphons, Minotaurs, native Harpies, and Basiks, among others, they do not willingly speak of those eras aloud. We don't pry because their good graces are far more valuable.
In a completely dissimilar fashion, Saddle Arabia had a small number of Temples and City-States, mostly in the Great Sand regions. Those became utterly ruined, though nothing like the Eastern Equestria ruins."

>Visibly perking at your words, the Siren takes on an appreciative cast before continuing her work... which had been quite poor judging by the number of times Hodch had to reexamine the possibly magical ones she'd taken for being normal.
"Dul try not think bad. Dul also not do sorting.. often."
>Rolling the word around several times, she finally nods at achieving a decent similarity to the times it had been spoken aloud.
"Often. Older Sirens do sorting. Young Sirens not good at it."
[1d6 = 3] <Vortex Adapt
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11] <Siren's Gaze
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Part #2/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389971
390083 390089
>>389966
>>389970
"Not to worry, it is rather nice to have something to do which isn't frustrating. Or soul-burning."
>Setting a snidely bombastic side-eye on Katyal, whom suddenly busies herself with patting the mystic butterfly's wings, Hodch grins.
"Then, if you would like, I can explain the proper visual indicators to determine specie, composition, magical inherency, and the variety of cues to understanding crystalline materials, magical or Mystical gems, and various others. My knowledge extends primarily to those found in Equestria, Saddle Arabia, the Crystal Empire, Gryphon Kingdoms, and a majority from the Minotaur Hegemony as well as the Dragonspine Mountains.
Certain Planes are included, although I have little knowledge on Extra-Planar.. and I do not like the Eldritch ones."
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9] <E.Research
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13]

>Eyes turning to regard the piece of neon blue-white quartz like object holding station a foot from his head, the stallion's mood turns furious, albeit rather controlled.
"Falkite, archaic. Twice refined, quite rare. Poorly understood, near-Mystic metamaterial caused by extreme interactions between Lightning and the most solid version of cloud material. Only found underneath the largest, oldest, and most active cloud cities. They are often regarded as holy objects among the more traditional pegasi, and I have found no reason to state they are not.
Before the Batpony-Pegasi League's civil war, which I do NOT know enough to attempt explaining, one piece of Falkite was traditionally given to every pegasi upon their foaling during a ritual. After said civil war, Falkite no longer formed. For what reason none know, only that less than two percent of modern pegasi have inherited one. The Ferron as a whole have less than a thousand.
Falkite acts similarly to the natural amount of Rime in Crystal ponies, aiding in the natural pegasi acclimation towards both Air, as the Elemarental, and the Airstreams. Not only did a pegasi receive instruction in how to become one with the Airstreams, they also had vastly heightened knowledge and capacity to utilize Air Elemarental containing objects to their utmost. Your Tempest Orb included.
Both the Lunar Guardians and Solar Guardians had select, highly specialized units whom were issued engraved, twice-refined Falkite in specific geometric designs. They were named the 'Airstrike Divisions' due to a capability which allowed extremely long distance Air Elemarental strikes and light bombardmarents. However, there are no known Airstrike Falkite pieces remaining in the modern era.
I would request that Pareidolia and Lonestar debate whom the most deserving pegasi of Razorback is, and deliver it to them, but now is likely not the time to do so."

>Remaining quiet throughout, Lone eases the driver's side sliding door open to glance back.
>Holding his reservations and surveying moods for a bit, his head shakes, flicking on the holographic bubble to continue pushing the Landbarge's limitations.
[1d6+20 = (6+20) = 26] <Maximum Speed
[1d6+20 = (4+20) = 24]
[1d6+20 = (2+20) = 22]
[1d6+20 = (2+20) = 22]
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.389973
389974
>>389918
>Pausing in her cleanup of the mess she caused to give Lila a side eye, Amy pondered the prospect of actually leaving.
"...I'm sure this time will be the one."
>Amy said that every time.
>The filly smiled suddenly at the second estimate.
"She would."
>Despite her complaints, Amy felt that the Baroness genuinely did enjoy her visits, and would continue to make them long after herself and Lilamaredre were gone.
>Her thoughts were interrupted catching the end of Lila salivating over the prospect of getting snoot first into a blast furnace, gasping with faux shock.
"Perish the thought! We'll figure something else out."

>Amy sheepishly handed over the soaked coals one by one, guilty expression on her face, though she couldn't hide her sheer lack of regret for the outcome.
>Perhaps she could have achieved the same effect without involving water?
>No, Lila would have seen the empty glass. The threat really did have to be real.

>Amy turned back to the meeting room door with an acknowledging ear twitch and a barely contained mischievous giggle.
>She played along with the Baroness, apparently, acting as if she weren't just privy to the Kaos that had happened.
"Good evening Baroness! That sounds lovely."
>Upon hearing that King Tachell would not be arriving, Amy sighed.
"Aww."
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.389974
390038
>>389973
>Knocking the table over, biting the edge, then dragging it back to, about, where it should be, Lilamaredre fluffs out her wings in a suitably snooty motion.
"The Baroness has no reason to lie, and it was not her fault the previous tunnels collapsed, lead to dead ends, or were already inhabited."
>Stilling to marentally calculate the possibility of continued visits, the filly's lips turn into a wavy S.
"Poooossible. At least until your sire and dam continue their physically aggressive disagreemarents. She does not find those distasteful, only strange. And peculiar. Also more than a Bit awkward."
>Barely hiding a glower towards you, her pupils return to a mostly normal expanded state.
"I was promised FLAMES, unending and unyieling. And I do not FEEL them."
>...she hadn't overheard that one's ranting, right?

>Finding the courage to not gag when the last puck was set on her wing, Lila high trots directly towards the den's exit door, nudging it open and disappearing.
>A solemn, half-whine of pure, absolutely pained disgust takes place.
>She'd be fine.
>Probably.
>Maybe not.

>Eyeing the open door while both ears swivel backwards to listen, the Baronnes immediately ditches her official demarenor.
>Stepping forwards to offer her intensely amused, wiggling snout, she cracks a marginally pleased smile.
"Do not worry, I will ensure your sire and dam have plenty. We have recovered three small caches from before lockdown, though it will take some time to properly, as you call it, *gift* them."
>Returning to vague seriousness now, the mare's head shakes briefly, then motions with her chin backwards, speaking quietly.
"Your sire and dam are discussing what can safely be sent with Lilamaredre. They are still unsure which materials are best suited to resisting her exposure."
>Now using her normal tone afterwards, she clears her throat before dipping her head at the couches.
"Mm-MM. May I be seated when you find the time to, please? And sadly I did not ask Tachell for details, though perhaps I should have. There are still hundreds of Gates which were damaged or merely fell into states of disrepair. Even if I would normally shout at his miraculous abilities to somehow find 'anything else to do', he seemed fairly serious.
While that alone was not alarming, the elder Shades and Kratha did not know which Gate he indicated should be rebuilt. It was-"
>Checking the door again, Lilamaredre was wringing her feathers out, one by one.
>Suppressing a snort at the pegasi's intensely deep distaste of water, the Baroness smiles politely.
"Somewhere in the Fifth Ring, Outskirts, Sector Fifty-Three. To be quite honest my memory is beginning to slip, but I do not specifically recall a Gate being placed nor set there. I am getting quite old though."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390038
390078
Spoilered
>>389974
>Not that she thought the Baroness was lying, she just found it funny that something always seemed to get in the way of them leaving, though she wasn't entirely displeased. Amethyst didn't mind staying longer, even if the prospect of exploring other places was very appealing, particularly the idea of finally visiting the Moors.
>Amy once again threw up her hands in placative surrender at Lila's glowering, laughing as she left to deal with the wet coals.

>Turning to see the Baroness offering her snout, Amethyst's hand acted without conscious thought, shooting out immediately to lightly boop the snoot.
>It was a wholly irresistable urge, she told herself. She knew what else was an irresistable urge, the urge to acquire gifts, as the very second the Baroness uttered the word, she responded immediately.
">:3"
>Amethyst would love nothing more than to rummage through the caches for yet more gifts, yet she got the distinct sense that the opportunity would not arise, she would have to acquire gifts elsewhere.
>Adopting a more serious mood herself, Amy gestured towards the couch.
>With the Guardsman puppet.
"Please, make yourself at home."
>Tachell finding anything else to do sounded more and more like he was unwilling to subject himself to the Kaos Amy was frequently responsible for inflicting on any and all in what she cheerfully referred to as her 'area of effect', but still even odds there really were better things to do.
>Perking up mishievously at her ponderings on 'getting too old', the ipotane piped up.
"If your memory's going, can I have all the forbidden looore now?~"
>She slid a meaningful side eye at Lilamaredre, hoping the aging Baroness would catch her very heavy handed meaning.
>Though she would settle for any forbidden lore at all.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390078
390172
>>390038
>Face scrunching at the contact, the mare's eyes gleam contently, though immediately glances sideways to check on Lilamaredre.
>Whom was in dire straits, having no option other than to steam her wings clean rather than dry off normally.
>It was going to take the pegasus a Bit.

"Thank you my dear."
>Delivering a short, slight bow towards the Guardsman, and you, the Baroness picks the closest one, taking the most efficient strides possible.
>Shifting onto the pleasant cushion longways and grimacing at the effort, she shuffles back enough to lie on the edge with a pained sigh.
>She'd become far less mobile than you remember her being.
>Head swinging and turning both eyes to gaze at the table, her ears twitch.. deviously.
"Weeeelll... I suppose there is little danger in revealing those secrets which could easily be attributed to merely being careless."
>Moving about to find a more comfortable sitting position, the mare's expression brightens, left forehoof crossing the right.
"You know the majority of Gates have been destroyed by external forces, but rarely have I been asked this question: 'by what?' Ninety-six percent of attackers were Extra-Planar, and three percent are Planar. The remainder typically leave once they realize the consequences of destroying a Gate, though there have been Corrupted or Tainted whom have tried.
Extra-Planar beings are incomprehensible, far more so than Eldritch, yet you know the dangers of attempting to understand That Which Should Not Be. While both abide by physical laws which vary greatly, Extra-Planars are, by and large, exceptionally difficult to harm. The majority are individuals, some hive-minds, linked, or bonded, and then 'other'. Do not try to understand their minds, nor motivations.
Most are attracted to unique energy sources and ritual items which they seek to claim for themselves, yet they never use such. Not even the dragons or oldest Half-Shades understand why.
In the time I have been here, one-hundred and sixty or so were destroyed, and six-hundred fifty-three have been damaged. It takes considerable effort to repair each Gate and ward them against intrusion. You know how difficult it is to acquire materials from the Wells, let alone locating intact older sections from when King Tachell-"
>Horn alighting in swirling patterns, the scene of that particular dragon crashing through several gates in the 2nd Ring plays, complete with flailing legs, tail, and his utterly dumbfounded stare, the Baroness snorts amusedly.
"Mistakenly breached between three of the Tunnels to crash, ruining half of my life's work. Nor can we use Kerbann wood as even the smallest piece is far too precious.
There is of course-"
>Nodding towards the replaced tableware with a curious snout wiggle, then motioning at the already dissipating shards which had been the skylight window.
"That. Despite how fragile crysamare is against physical force, when properly aligned and solidified by those with knowledge of resonant properties, it becomes nearly indestructible against the Elemarents, most forms of magic including Sorcery, Crystal Runes, along with the-"
>Side eyeing the den window briefly, her head shakes with a thin smile.
"Blood magic and other unusual capabilities of batponies. Thus, in order to make crysamare equally durable to physicality and energies alike, what you must do is crystallize the first layer, sorcerously imbue the second, enchant the third, then combine all three disciplines with the fourth using any of the common blood rituals dedicated to strengthening. Always repeat this in multiples of four."

>Checking on Lila again, she was currently lying down and basking, limbs outstretched, also visibly trying to decide something.
>Beyond her, the short wall, next house, and dozens of Kerbann trees were fluctuating in darker tones, signifying evernight was soon to begin.
>Making zero effort to hide her indignation at the pegasi's laziness, the Baroness sniffs once, then whispers in short, calm and unhurried tones.
"Before I left and after I ordered the Wells to be opened, hundreds of caches were dispersed near each Gate. I do not blame King Tachell for causing them to be sent through the Tunnels, only myself.
If you desire to search them out, there are two methods: when singing or displaying Crystal Runes, change the resonance to locating heavy, slow vibrations, similar to the Gates during Moonfall. The second is to seek out sorcerous wards bearing heraldry and sigils of preservation. Both are difficult to mistake.
Some are likely the property of others whom are unable to open them, yet you should be able to easily trade for each. And, I do not know where they might have landed. There may be a fair number spread throughout the Minotaur Hegemony, the Crystal Kingdom, across Equestria, the Gryphon Kingoms, the Ferron Navarchy, and much of the Northern Moors."

>Sitting back to consider what might truly be forbidden, at least until now, her eyes mostly close, this time speaking in a firm, low tone.
"King Tachell is not the only Blackwatcher. Two more Otherworld dragons delved far too deeply into Void. One was captured by the Middle Navarchy as he fled, the other retreated into the Dragonspines. I do not doubt they ripped each scale off before they could be fully contaminated. That is why he remains here.
Among the Crystal Kingdom there are Rime-tainted lineages originating from the Conclaves. They will bear neither heraldry nor family crest. Do not speak to them as they cannot hear. Grace them, and they shall sing.
Find somepony of the Overdark to investigate Cloudwatch Bastion. It was set adrift on purpose to prevent the Blind from destroying what they created there; great weapons which not even the Navarchy could produce. It may now be calmed enough to explore.
Should you find yourself lost anywhere in the Moors, sing without words. There is one whom will always finds you, but be warned: she is much prettier than the others and you may not want to leave her home."
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Part #3/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390083
390089
>>389966
>>389970
>>389971
>Picking up a partially cut ruby in a rough baguette shape, a series of minute, hairline speckles across one face are easily seen, though could be recut to present a considerably more valuable gem.
>Sifting through a fair number more while tossing the unsuitables to Hodch, you come across a fascinating, dimly pulsing orange-yellow oval, the hues slowly changing from one to the other, then mixing in swirling patterns.
>Inspecting it closely, not a single visible flaw was visible while minute traces of something akin to pressure emanate from it.

>Sparing a few seconds to glance over, Hodch resumes his agreeable teacher's tone.
"Precisely like that one. No Elemarental traces, tiny amount of an active field-state, and completely unmodified. This shipmarent is a bit unusual so far, at least compared to what Equestrian mines offer. There is one flawless per every three hundred or so."
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390089
390105
>>389970
>He furrows his brow slightly as Katyal's correction highlights overlooked variables.
"I see."
(Details of relevant variables are outside my scope of study, clearly.)

>>389971
>In response to Hodch's offer, he nods as he returns to sorting.
"Please. Those from the Dragonspine may be particularly relevant."

>Hodch's lecture provokes a possible theory in Pareidolia's mind.
(... These descriptions of Falkite and Sphalerite imply all ponies may have some sort of fundamental elemental accretion or combination material that enables them to more effectively respond to their associated element.)
>However his request to bestow the Falkite to a Razorback pegasi pulls him from his contemplation.
"That is beyond my capability to determine, but I'll keep that in mind."

>>390083
>Passing the pulsing oval gem to a nearby pile of other apparently notable gems, he replies while carrying on.
"Then, do gems like that one act as contained energy sources to be drawn from? If the origin of this shipment isn't Equestrian, are there any other pattern traces?"

[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communicatino
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390105
390495
>>390089
>Hopping off the chair to place the Sphaler Core in her upright locker, Katyal turns around to give an artless shrug, then kneels down to begin digging into the pile.
"Sorry man. Don't know how to explain further without causing you-know-what to you-know-what. In real short terms: it gives you three a way better chance of recovering him."
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3] <E.Thievery
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3]
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <E.Perception
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]

>Carelessly letting himself be buried in the stacks, Hodch struggles to free a hoof for several seconds.
"Of course, and I may as well do a class shortly. Admittedly it took me a while to read what happened in the Boneyard. Economically speaking, the Dragonspine Mountains Mining Corporation, held by most of their nobles, only trades large amounts of gems to select factions and countries with lower stocks, allowing them to be competitive when trading against metals.
That way they maintain better relations without appearing to be greedy. While most dragons, Planar, Otherworld, and native alike, technically are, there is a rather simple if amusing explanation: specific metals conduct both physical and magical temperatures with well known properties. Composites from such are greatly valued, more so than actual treasure, which the Dragonspine Legions produce in select quantities."

>Left eye making rather sordid twitches, the unicorn frowns.
"It was a thought and request, not a demarend."

>Sending heaps of regular gems into the small gateway, which you notice was most likely one of the restricted Enclave buildings, Hodch makes enough room around himself to take a short break, reaching up to rub his snout.
"Flawless in particular? Not quite, no. Flawless gems are considered to be a either a neutral or anti-Elemarental. They occur when conditions are virtually perfect, yet do not produce an Elemarnetal.
As for Mystic-classes or other similarly esoteric containing ones, yes, though great care must be taken not to completely drain such a source, otherwise they would be rendered inert and fracture apart."
>Lifting nearly a hundred in a circle to survey, the Lunar unicorn gives a slow nod.
"Feathers, talons, great strength, moderate endurance. I believe this shipmarent was most likely sent during the Gryphon Kingdoms' Consolidation era, which existed roughly about the middle of the Early Dynasty, to sometime before the end of the Middle Dynasty. Both the number of flawless, averaging three to four per thousand, and the well cut or lustrous ground facets fit that time period.
Gryphon gem-cutters were no uncommon at the time, and they refused to cut difficult facings, of which I have seen a decent number so far."
>Gazing back to eye Katyal's progress, checking on Dul whom was now studiously picking out the rare flawless ones with perfect accuracy, the stallion rolls his shoulders out, preparing himself.
"Given the two-point-five standard tons of gems or so, this will most certainly be a Citadel worthy class. Katyal, feel like being a student once more?"
"Fuck yeah I do! Better than trying to figure out the weird Eyeraq pesudo-gems. Or the Dominion Plane's bullshit... ...just screw that Plane sideways."
"I hope you do not, that would be HIGHLY unnecessary.
Now then, here is one example of each natural, non-magical, non-Mystical gem. You will note that, unlike the majority found on human worlds, the exceptionally wide varieties of preformed shapes are most common. On Tallus, geometric formations are considered the norm due to greater yet more tightly controlled molecular variables.
Damaged gems are quite uncommon, meaning a condition or two was insufficient; whether temperature variations, proper cooling time, an elemarent off by a percent or so, a heavy Elemarental in close proximity, or merely Gravity being a zero-point-one degree fraction different in order to form properly.
Here is one of each specific gem, excluding those formed by creatures or conditions which are difficult to replicate. Such wide varieties are quite normal: fifty percent lower valued gems, twenty percent normal gems, ninteen percent precious, and one percent exceptional, also known as near flawless-"
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Senior Dragonspine Mountains
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10] <Graduate Elemarentals
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10] <Teacher Geology
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9] <Graduate Tallus Planar Materials
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]

>Mindlessly continuing her suddenly spot-on sorting duties, Dul stares up at the unicorn with the face only a complete, yet incredibly eager novice would have.
[1d6 = 5] <Tallus Acclimation
[1d6 = 1] <Vortex Adapt
Cheto
!!/fIxJi3jro
1aa72e3
?
No.390127
390192
>>389725
>Heavy satchels in exchange for a diverse mix of either food or wood craftmareship
>Judging by all the matrices already in place, Marequipa pretty much had a settled supply network
>All for various foods and woods
>The big two questions to derive from this information would be what was inside the satchels and what particular qualities were sought after in what was exchanged for the unknown contents.

>But enough meandering

>José's smile brightens in tandem with Pren's own, carefully receiving her hoof with a short, gentle hold of greeting.
>Just like Rasera taught him.
<Spaneigh> "Likewise, miss Pren."
>Of course, since his hand was so close to her eye level after letting go, he boldly followed it up with a light boop on the snoot to keep things exciting.
<Spaneigh> "On the bright side, you will not need to find a Common Equestrian translator while we are together."
>A little, sly offer if the need arose before things were promptly shelved into other matters.

>Nodding along with brief vocal acknowledgements, Gallo kept a low-down, giddy smile all throughout.
>Who knows? Maybe Salinas might be her first, possibly non-Razorback friend!
<Spaneigh> "May I inquire about what the First, Second, Third and Fourth are?"
>As opportunities were tentatively raring their heads at his metaphysical request, José threw one little question her way.
<Spaneigh> "Do you happen to know what's inside the satchels I keep seeing being traded for foods and woods?"
>The term was starting to get a little catchy, he had to admit.
Clemency
!.BxecfigoM
0b55ecb
?
No.390135
390204
>>389743

>Clemency paces around while watching the satellite image scroll to the coordinates and for further communications from Jeff
>However, nothing else comes through the Moon orb
>Shaking his head and sighing, he goes back to trying to figure out these coordinates
>He stops when he notices the vibrant colors
>Thinking to himself how strange, he tries to focus on the forest
>He thought about how the colors and the trees and foliage covering and twisting on itself almost seems as if it was trying to confuse the viewer or hide something
>As satellite finally settles on the exact center of coordinates given, he sees more of the foliage but now a weird amount of movement
>Clemency tries to focus the M-S.O.L.G on the green oval, hopefully to get a clearer picture of it and whatever is moving around it

>>389722
>Glancing through the visor, he hears and notices the Lunar ponies fly up and outwards
>"They must have started to notice Jeff and Emerald missing..."
>Clem makes his way towards the group and figures out the lead
>Lont was also there, fair enough given the Crystal pony involvement in this mess
>He head towards the lead
"Excuse me, y'all are starting to search for Jeff? I've got in contact with him. Got his exact coordinates but he's underground. Central Deep Moors and a whole hell away from matrices and civilization."
>He then pulls his notebook out and shows the lead the coordinates
"I saw what's over there, albeit in a top-down way. There's a ton of vibrant foliage, trees all covering each others canopy and some movement."
>After relaying the info, Clem focuses on the visor HUD and inspects the green oval, if the M-S.O.L.G. can focus in on it
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390172
390216
>>390078
>Mere moments after the Baroness had taken her seat, and careful not to comment on or react to her mobility issues, Amy crumpled and got comfortable on the floor, head propped up in her hands and lightly kicking her hind legs.
>Oh filly, lore time!

>Listening attentively, Amy began making mental notes of everything the Baroness said for later transcription and possible application once she had mastered the relevant principles.
>As bothersome as she found it that she shouldn't try to understand what shouldn't be understood, she knew better than to question the Baroness on these matters, particularly as she had already explained the perils to her when she was younger.
>Amy struggled to suppress her laughter at the conjured image that came next, King Tachell's expression in particular given so serious a matter very nearly sending her sides into orbit.
>Whatever orbit was supposed to be here.
>Following the Baroness's nod, Amy grinned again. The best thing about crysamare was that it was self cleaning no matter how much Kaos she and Lila got up to, which was often.

>Her description of the caches had her interest, and her ears twitched, fascinated with the prospect of more gifts.
"Do you know what kind of gifts we can expect to find in these caches?"
>Trembling with excitement, Amy held her breath in anticipation of truly forbidden lore. The Void. The Black. Not that such things truly troubled the ipotane, she couldn't sneak to save her life, so she couldn't even enter the underdark, let alone the lower levels of that spectrum.
>Mysterious Crystal Ponies, lost armories and, apparently, what she surmised was a very charming bat pony hermit.
>She looked up at the Baroness, eyes sparkling with admiration for all the forbidden lore she knew and was sharing.
"Wow, you know so much, where did you learn all of this?"
Marequipa: Shoalbarge Villa
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390192
390394
>>390127
>Beaming at the contact, Pren's face contorts into a half confused, half blank stare.
<Spaneigh> "The Alicorn Dynasty? Beginning, Central, Ending, and Lost eras?"
>Mildly resetting her, snout wiggling several times as she returns to a good natured expression, the mare's shoulders lift nonchalantly.
<Spaneigh> "Don't think I have ten years to explain, so instead I'll just say this much: about two thousand years or more of stuff that had nothing to do with most of Tallus. Argenta didn't like the Otherworld alicorn at all, and swore she'd drop a bunch of Giant Armored Reefthorns on her if she ever showed up again. At least I think that's how the story went."

>Head swiveling to take precisely one look at the satchels, she glances past you for a quick check of an arriving group, mostly earth pony mares in darker colors, offering a short greeting as they clop by.
<Spaneigh> "Of course! That's sea salt. Usually scraped off boulders whenever there's enough to collect, from small rocky flats, or seawater reduced by boiling in a big pan. Fairly inefficient doing it that way, though some like the extra smoky scent. Or taste. Sometimes both."
>Of course.

<Spaneigh> "Not sure what I was expecting this early. Two big deliveries to-"
>Whistling at the mares calling offers for a quick explanation, the names of Villa de Rosa and Pace Arroyos were given.
<Spaneigh> "One is waiting on armed escorts for exploring the ruins of Chica te Lansi way north of here, other is traveling to Dos Burros, which is really humid right now, and the pair over there is going to Longstamps way up the coast but they need an EnKee translator.
Last is requesting a group to track down and kill a Beleram-Ha, somewhere up the beach a ways from here. It's been causing trouble for a while now, scaring off beach combers during the day and raiding any campfires it sees for food. The big Lunar ship left a week ago and they were coming back to hunt down a few other problem causers, but they haven't returned yet."
>Eyeing you up and down rapidly, Sallinas gives a subdued head shake.
<Spaneigh> "Not sure I can let you do any of those four without a lot better equipmarent, unless you have some great armor and weapons at home along with a few friends. Do you have an Argentum honor-chain or Coalition hoofstamp?"
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390204
390339
>>390135
>Background data on degraded systems, a request for replacement weaponry, and finally full details of catastrophic reactor damage read out.
>Stabilizing after numerous micro-adjustments, the 40MM lens zooms in to maximum:
>What might have been a giant, flattened snail shell was instead a dull green, cloudy mass, completely untouched by the surrounding flora for a distance, and was distinctly neither approached nor patrolled judging by untouched ground.
>On the far south, a barely humanoid, pulsing green figure partially covered in jet black vines, ripples of energetic pulses emanating from it, steps forwards.
>Halting after three lumbering steps, the head turns right almost ninety degrees, vast swarms of tiny creatures, far too many to begin trying to count, seemingly fleeing the shell and dispersing southwest, southeast, or directly south.

>Finding absolutely nothing during the rapid, albeit poorly organized search pattern, the majority of larger pegasi land to peer into the Village's other buildings, the lightest flapping off in irregular V's.
"The WHERE?!"
"No bloody way-"
>Silencing the near-instantly bristling ranks of Chargers and Lancers with a piercing whistle, the leadmare's eyes tighten behind diamond lenses, first at you, then at the nearest Lunars, uneasily shifting in their armor.
"That entire region is so far beyond the phrase 'off limits' I am hereby ordering all ponies to forget what was stated!
Your mate tried to travel east from Tidelock's outermost bogs, once. She achieved barely half an hour's flight before using an emergency translocation rune. A sixth of her did not return!"
>Vocally more concerned, the Charger lead's helmet tips back to groan loudly.
"Then however he got there he better return the same way because there's maybe twenty individuals that can even THINK of traveling into the Deeps. Not even Moonflanks dares it!"
"Could a Primal could be swayed into rescuing him?"
>Head whipping around to snap at the offending mare near her, the older Lancer's tone changes to reasonably infuriated.
"After what we have all witnessed tonight, which of their number would you deem marentally stable and capable enough to perform such a delicate recovery?! A minuscule slip or mistake and neither would return!"
"The Void Naghtmares, would they be able to take a crashdown there and deliver a rune?"
"Possibly, but do you know where they are?"
"No, I do not."
"Then I will state this: Two-Stripes gave both to somepony last year, yet they have not been returned."
"Both? I thought there were four in total?"
"Brush up on post-Lunar Guardian history more often. Luna cannot allow a certain one out longer than a minute due to severe contamination, and the other was never recovered."
>Armored knee lifting to rub her chin, which takes her a few seconds to realize was blocked by helmet, the young Charger sighs, then nods upwards.
"That's a list of definitely not going to happens. Why not travel there in Guillotine?"
"She has sworn herself to safeguarding the Arenas first, and striking against invading Constructs second. No more, and certainly no less."
"...we could try to summon Ferokshi."
>While you'd heard the name from Twisted once, her only advice was to politely state you are leaving, calmly turn around, then sincerely move in any direction it wasn't currently traveling.
>Not one Lunar moves, let alone breathes, until a pegasi on the roof screams downwards, wings raised and blades rattling together in sincere threat.
"SAY THAT THAT MONSTER'S NAME AGAIN I'LL EAT YOUR FEATHERS!"
"Whatever makes you happy, little horse. Last option it is: Ieyz."
>That name wasn't one you could think of, even with the strange pronunciation.
>Nearly every Lunar steps backwards or to the side from the younger mare, though most take two, or three, excluding the motionless, utterly confused pegasi above.
>The leadmare whirls around while snarling out her words, front hoof stomping once, then pointing accusingly at the Charger.
"In what veritably insane reality could you think that degenerated creature is capable of acknowledging the existence of one not his own species!? Chuz`Ain is difficult, that I will admit freely, yet the Kraal is corrupted beyond any capacity to speak with as an equal!"

>Twisting sideways and up, the Charger's helmet twitches side to side, visibly removing herself out of the Lunar Overherd.
"Screw ALL of you then!"
>Delivering a loud, contempt-ridden snort, the Charger storms north from the Lunar ranks, gaze firmly set beyond you.
"I'm going to the Citadel and requesting a meeting with Durandal whether or not the Council likes it! If there's a tiny chance that Emissary will know what it is!"
>Halting next to you, the mare hisses in grim warning tones.
"Not a word about him being missing, especially not where he's at, to any being, living, Undead, Elemarental, Naghtmare, or all others that you don't have complete trust in!"

>Thoroughly undeterred from carving in names across the southern entrance, a short, giddy young mare's laughter is heard among the hundreds of batponies, the inconsistent mix of EnKee and Common Equestrian rather confusing as conversations flow.
"Ferr-hock is a jerk anyways!"
"Didn't he carry a castle for somepony once?"
"No, that was a League tower-"
"Those old ones are so BORING! Why don't they ever do anything?!"
"I know something that'd be really fun!"
>Hundreds of tufted ears immediately flick, diamond-slitted eyes regarding the unseen speaker impatiently.. for not even half a second before an exasperated stallion calls out.
"Which is?"
[1d100 = 25] <KEK
>Snicker-kekking an exceptionally long string that you couldn't translate, small groups of Chargers and Lancers begin leaving, few showing more than fatigue, though the leadmare listens intently.
>Her annoyed shout is drowned by raucous cackling, a hundred carvers climbing up the Basin's southern building walls, leaping off to streak northwards.
>Yep, it was definitely time to ignore them.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390216
390256
>>390172
>Finding the wood suitably cool underneath you, at least for the next five, maybe even ten minutes, the elder mare's eyes half-lid in deep thought... completely forgetting the scene.
>Which replays several times.
"Materials, primarily. Middle and hi-alloys from the Hegemony, weaves from Neighsa, lifeblaze from the Harpies. Most of the Elemarental metals. Chunks of Promynkrake. Potent gems for equipmarent. Ingots of most composites; sapphirine, diamondine, rubynine.
Songstream from the Dominon Plate. Shatterflux from the Vortex. Ethereal crysometals, stolen of course. Sheets of quad-plated crysamare and silverine will be rare however, we used most of those upon arriving. You may find a few Elemarental plates as well, which I do not regret taking.
Wish I could remember all of what we thought was necessary... ah, each was also packed with one week of food for a full team of five, though none will be crystalline enough to satisfy you."

>Blinking out of her reverie, the facing shoulder's muscles tighten as she finally dismisses the magical rewview.
>Both eyebrows raise, then relax as she speaks in a faux-cryptic voice, leaning forwards with conspiratorial lip curls.
"Myself, for one! Tachell is far different than what he used to be. I do not think he can exit for longer than one Tallus hour, unless a suitably vast, Void-touched region exists and will accept him. His condition cannot be trusted to the Elemarentals nor Planars which would, wrongfully, consider him a danger.
Extrapolation for the second. I have visited with your dam enough to consider what she does not say openly. Despite the horrors Rime has caused, there was indeed some good to be found from it.
Third, there are older Shades whom, from time to time, reminisce over what they had seen, overheard, and scented. I merely noted pieces and placed most of the puzzle together.
The fourth-"
>Sternly examining the window, skylight, last the front door without moving her head, the Baroness makes a slight hoof motion, one used to indicate Legionaries weren't close by.
"I do not know whether anypony may truly comprehend their words, but I sincerely believe some have met an Unspoken. Marely were destructive, terrifying beings, even to the dragons, Harpies, and Kra`ken of old. Yet, there did exist a number whom were neutral in the battles for supremacy, those chose not to take a side. I know little other than the faintest of rumors, that being a few whom were most gentle."

>Meeting room door opening, your dam nearly bounces out, halting to deliver a quick, ringing rearward kick to armored plating.
>Shin, most likely.
>Tossing a raspberry at the exasperated, non-committal grunt behind her, she continues towards the table, stopping to give the unicorn a quick yet suitably welcoming nod.
>It was easily enough to feel the wide smile, and her giddy subtones were close to being infectious.
"We've sorted out everything and made sure the sleds are well protected!"
"Have you ensured nothing could fall out? Or in?"
"That won't happen, I ninety-nine percent guarantee it!"
>Half-stepping out, your sire's decorated helmet swivels towards his opposite, now busying herself with nudging the table, sofa, and couches into a perfect triangle.
>Lowering a dangerous fraction, a single exasperated burst of static occurs before partially turning to pull on a heavy, tightly woven Kerbann rope.
>One of the floating, longhouse-like structures glides out the meeting room, barely four hooves above floorboards, the second securely attached by another rope, half the first's length, to a heavily overbuilt drop pin.
>They must have 'moved' the workshop next to the meeting room, which was weird.
>Dragged into view at the den's rear door, the sleds were definitely something.
>Overburdened was a word, but it also wasn't the right one.
>Completely filled?
>No, there was PLENTY of space left in the second.. the left gauntlet tightens.
>Oh, he knew.

>Closing the meeting room door with a short hand motion, your sire exhales a blast of air through the front grill, reaching up to tear his helmet off and snapping it onto the overly wide belt's side.
>Partially turned, he eyes the pair in dead seriousness, swirls of local anti-Elemarentals retreating briefly.
>The slightest nod is given as he directs most portions of thought towards the den.
"If these should somehow be damaged, I will not be available to repair them. And you had best not ask to ride the Baroness, Amy, she will be entirely devoted to determining which path is safest."
>Ears flat, snout scrunched, one cheek twitching, the Baroness directs a desperately-trying-not-to-laugh face past you.
>Rather than summoning an object to beat her head against like normal, she exhales. Slowly.
>Neither dam, sire, nor pegasi outside so much as dares to speak about the multiple snickers throughout.
"I p-promised a fffffeast, and i-it is delivered!"
>Waving towards the table as her barrel heaves, a giant platter loaded with speckled green roots, thin reddish-purple stalks, precisely eighteen round nuts, and a selection of the finest Kerbann slices sprinkled with white flakes arrives, drops down.
>Much too heavily, you note as your dam's snout crinkle angrily, though none of the bowls underneath it fracture.
"Lila, shall you join us?"
"Even if you don't need to eat it would be rude to refuse, especially since she brought the best stuff!"
"In a.. ...shortly!"

>Clonking around the sofa to seat himself from its larger side, shifting precisely two and a half times, Dalli sets a hard gaze against the rare, tasty, yet thoroughly vegetarian options.
>The glance travels down, to the right onto you, left, back onto you, then back, all in a quarter-second.
>Finally sitting down on the other couch across from him, two crystalline eyes narrow.
"Don't. Even. Say. It."
>Fully expecting imminent violence, the Baroness reaches out with her left forehoof, patting the other cushion twice, all the while being utterly serene.
"If you would take the first, I would be honored."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390256
390272
image.png
>>390216
>Alloys, ores, weaves gems and other materials, but no manufactured objects. No matter, if it was shiny, then it was a gift.
>Though she wondered if the food would still be good after being left so long, unless it was in some form of stasis.
>Amy sat quiety and let the Baroness think, entertaining herself by watching the projection, focusing on different portions of it with each replay, and still trying not to laugh.

>Just as the Baroness finished detailing the sources of the lore she knew, Amy quirked an ear towards the door, twitching amusedly at her parents shenanigans.
>Before curiously perking up at the details of the sleds.
>Ninety-nine percent guaranteed meant one percent certainty of further gifts.
>Since lore time was over, Amy rolled over on her back and sat up in her peculiar way, tail swishing out of the way as she did so.
>As she gazed at the extra space, she imagined all the extra gifts she could fill it with, and if she rod-
>Amy caught the gauntlet tightening and entirely failed to prevent her ears from making movements that loosely translated to I-have-been-caught-with-my-hand-in-the-crystal-chip-jar-again.

>Hearing her father's stern pre-emptive reproachment before Amy could even voice the request she had later planned to make, Amy released an explosive and utterly defeated sigh, flopping back on the floor limply.
>As she spoke, her words came out echoed and laden with static as though spoken through a vox grill.
"Squad broken!"
>Taking a moment to ignore the food in favour of wallowing in defeat, Amy could not long refuse the food's allure and sat up again, standing and making her way to the table, but not before transferring the puppet from her hand to the top of her head, the puppet inexplicably remaining affixed there despite her head movements.
>She momentarily clapped her hands together once over the food and turned to the Baroness again, thankfully.
"Squad morale restored!~"
>Amethyst did not even hesistate in selecting the Kerbann slices.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390272
390303
>>390256
>Memorizing the ten second scene, PARTICULARLY the flailing, chunks and partially intact sections of a truly ancient Gate were visible above, down and right of, and far left from the nearly blackened falling dragon.
>Equally fascinating, all of Tachell's scales, horns, and claws were covered in long, blistered streaks, spreading fractures, and pulsating starbursts.
>The variety of blues, purples, and faint reds was indicative of extreme Void exposure, though in the past few years he'd recovered somewhat.
>Studying the utter hapless, or was it helpless, stare of an individual considering their truly, remarkably dumb decisions in midfall, the Otherworld King was most certainly not expecting to break through face first.

>Relaxing as much as he could in the bulky armor, Dalli raises a slightly morose eyebrow at you.
>Quick hand signs describe a need to always leave some space in case of unexpected and particularly interesting shinies.
>Or, better yet, tasty foods.
>The next phrase, which you knew wasn't going to be understood by either mare, was interesting: always check saddle for comfort.

>Snickering at the tones, the Baroness freezes, then places forehooves outstretched as if she hadn't broken her outwardly noble demarenor.
>Lilamaredre was probably watching by now.
"I do not quite understand how you do that."
"It's all in the tones, Baroness. Remember when I, erm, convinced the Legion that they should open the smaller Wells?"
>Not quite critical, and long over being annoyed, the elderly mare's snout twitches sideways.
"...yes, I do. And while that was most amusing, it did take some time for them to realize you did not perfectly copy my voice."
>Left hand flicking once, a shortened, carefully prepared summoning takes place overhead, the next skylight pane thunking down.
>Glancing at the platter once more, a morose, pointed human stare meets apprehensive, briefly confused horsewife.
"I am not angry, however I must point out this feast is strictly vegetarian. Amy requires a more diverse, fulfilling diet."
"That is what you were irritated over?"
"Yes."
"Why did you not seek me out earlier? I would ha-"
>Side-eyeing the older mare, Dalli's right gauntlet makes a polite 'hold' motion.
"Searched the tunnels for suitable creatures, likely by yourself? Ordered the Legion and a few barely trained pups to locate more which have been trapped? You have done far more than can be repaid, Baroness. Once free, Amy will be able to hunt on her own."

>Glittering eyes, swirling eyes, and relatively normal ones watching what you pick first...
"Of course."
"Did you expect less from your filly?"
"OUR filly!"
>A single kola nut lifted off the platter, the Baroness eyes it in objective fascination while making little attempt to hide her amused disdain for your dam and sire glaring not-YET-literal daggers at each other.
"I would have been slightly miffed if nothing was chosen. And I will continue to state dried Kerbann is a disgrace despite it lasting years."

>The flavor: delishus.
>The colors: bright and shiny.
>While you pillage the platter's fruit contents, the unicorn and Crystal mare split their own share of preserved archaic kola, fresh sweetroots, Lowland thistle stalks, and a few Kerbann slices, your sire leans forwards to pick up exactly two of each.
>Surprisingly he takes three of the thistles, peeling off the outer shell with care to expose the relatively tasty inner heart.

>Finished with her fit of laziness, the fiery pegasus strolls into the den, now entirely awake, pushing the door closed with a wing.
>Gazing at the scene in half-seriousness, an eyebrow raises, though her snout crinkles upon spotting the puppet's new location.
>Shrugging mostly to herself, Lila clops towards the table, though halts at the Baroness speaking quietly.
"Dalli Senior, Amethyst.. both Amethysts, Lilamaredre."
"Yes, Baroness?"
"I must ask the four of you to, please, cease calling me by that title. It is... tiring to hear so often.
Avernus is the name I was given. I would prefer each of you to call me by that from now on."
>Confounded by the wholly unexpected request, the filly's face scrunches as if she'd inhaled anything other than raw flames.
>Sitting back to eye the quarter-eaten slice of fruit in his right gauntlet, your sire's expression hardens pensively.
"Umakachov is the name I was given. Funny, is it not?"
"I do not see nor feel anything wrong with it. Why do you dislike your forename?"
"It is a pun."
"Of... what?"
>CLEARLY and CERTAINLY not about to release a raging storm of laughter, your dam does her best to mimic a solid wall as he frowns.
"Uma is an ancient human word from certain regions with a single precise meaning: horse."
"So?"
"The second portion, Kachov. It means catcher-of."
"Oh. ........ WHAT?!"
>Silence was, sometimes, deafening.
>At least until the older Amethyst snickers, which prompts your sire to, slowly, reach up with his other gauntlet, cover his face, and sigh as she collapses into laughter.
Ivan the STALKER
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390280
390281
>>371364 →

"I can always admire the passion in which a metalsmith works their craft."
>He could make adjustments and modify weapons like most STALKERs, but he knew he would never meet the same skill and craft that master weaponsmiths in the Zone could.
>At least, from what he could remember of himself, he wasn't good enough to be considered more than a basic mechanic.
>He sighed inwardly and shook his head slightly.
>Something to dwell on later, he would think.

"I doubt I could carry enough ammunition to make the barrels glow a bright red, honestly. Unless I get a much larger ammo backpack for it."
>Ivan would lift the lid to the box, glancing over the discs, before replacing it.
>He'd take the box and stash it away, giving the two another small smile.
"I'll certainly find some use for these, they'll make quite a good addition to what I've got."

>Ivan followed the stallion's gaze, glancing over the weapons with an idle eye.
"Would you like some help with those? Even if it's just sorting them out."
>He would offer, rubbing the back of his head.
Razorback Fortress: The Workshop
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390281
390282
>>390280
"Likewise one must state the same towards marecenaries, guards, clothiers, jewelers, alchemists, brewers, builders-"
>Gaze snapping upwards to survey the entire ceiling quickly, his right eye twitches.
"Or ditch diggers.."

>Turning back to regard the furnace with a suspicion that bordered on reasonable, Krinza's mood brightens.
"I suggest storing an additional belt in case of unusual circumstances. I have only gone out on one resupply, which was... most enlightening. How one can hear the phrase 'extended combat situation' and think they only need two magazines is beyond my ability to foresee."

"Not those, specifically. Those are part of the-"
>Harrowed by memories of endless sorting, Krinza merely offers the stack a dismissive motion.
"Rather, I should say, one portion of a collection recovered from the Solar Armory. We are finally receiving those cleared for repair, refurbishing, or to conduct further examinations. So far the majority are simply damaged though a few have degraded in storage. Amerose is a bit too fastidious in her selections."
>Upon remembering the 800 pound heavily armored steel gorilla in front of him, the pudgy unicorn's ear swivel in thought.
"Ivan, have you been to the Enclave recently? There is an exceptionally large weapon assortment which has so far been underused, let alone appreciated. Few humans lack the raw strength to carry most.. much less utilize effectively.
I can think of one weapon which may work well for you, by the name of Tomb Bringer. It was a solid, round headed mace of early Stalliongrad construction. The enchantmarents were nearly destroyed due to Roust eating most of it, but should be rather simple to recoalesce given suitable repairs."
>Forming a set of claws to scratch the back of his head, the grandmaster smith's snout creases.
"It is most unusual to study such an old weapon not made from black iron or ritually purified blackened steel. I suspected it was originally created for a Kra`ken whom survived the Late Dynasty's collapse."
Ivan the STALKER
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390282
390284
>>390281
"Most professions, really."
>He would file ditch digging under miscellaneous construction work, however.

"I'm well amused by people who think they only need a small amount of ammunition when going out on a mission. Even when it is 'small and quick', I prefer having enough for a full squad on myself."
>And at least a hundred buckshot shells for whatever shotgun he had on him at the time.
>Or two.

>He nods in idle agreement and turns his gaze back to Krinza, folding his arms over his chest.
>unga bunga beefman
"Not recently, for a trip like that."
>He looked a bit interested at the idea.
>While non-ranged weapons held little value in the Zone, the idea of a fuckoff heavy mace to bash heads in was obviously appealing to the STALKER.
"How heavy is Tomb Bringer?"
>He was definitely curious at the thought of being able to wield heavy weapons nobody else could.
>Bragging rights or something.
Razorback Fortress: The Workshop
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390284
390286
>>390282
>Leaving an irate glower that probably wasn't oh it definitely was seething at the rafters, Krinza merely lifts a hoof upwards.
"The ones I have exceptions towards can all be found on Tartarus Isle. There is no logical reasoning for hundreds of prostitutes, nor an entire division's worth of lewdly dressed maids."

>Horn brightening in small red swirls, several damaged spears, halberds, and other polearms are floated towards Krinza's table, spreading them out for a quick examination.
"If it were left to my decisions, I would ensure each individual has a minimum of five minutes worth solely of ammunition. However, what is most pressing happens to be a severe lack of storage space and weight-countering devices. Lann has fortunately completed her late stage clothing designs and has begun producing replacements or custom additions.
Unfortunately we have run out of float cores and Gravity-negating enchantmarents, thus I would highly suggest carrying a few other spares for yourself."
>Setting aside the more questionably fractured weapons, the smith's ears perk up in solid interest.
"As it is.. less than eleven pounds. Completely restored it would be twenty-nine, if not a bit more. There are filler materials left from older projects as well."
>Selecting the least damaged spear in a rather obtusely designed leaf blade pattern, he sets to work removing the deeply inset pins using raw magical force.
"The second oddity is it bears a wide scale secondary enchantmarent, one created from a clear mixture of Minotaur blessings and Psionic pseudo-enchantmarents. I suspect it was added to destroy large obstacles, doors, fortifications, though was tuned solely for all forms of destructive purposes.
Last, it was Graven-Carved. I am not ponifally aware of significant Minotaur involvemarent throughout Stalliongrad's history, though it would not be surprising if such existed. Or exists.
You may want to take a look through what else is available, including the Board."
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <M.Elemarental Chemistry
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7] <M.Research
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <GM.Enchanter
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16]
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13]
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17] <GM.Crafter
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (4+11) = 15] <GM.Smith
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <Runic Anvil
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Runic Engraving Blade
[1d6+12 = (5+12) = 17] <Runic Hammer

>Completed Projects:
[1d6+10 = (1+10) = 11] <Human Alloys
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <Human Composites
[1d6+10 = (5+10) = 15] <Scaling
Ivan the STALKER
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390286
390288
>>390284
>Ivan stared for a long moment.
>Krinza has clearly never met a frenchman.
"I could absolutely find some logic behind those numbers, myself. Even if it sounds absurd."
>He shook his head and chuckled a bit.

"Equipment standardization is... quite lacking here, I've noticed. Even with limited resources in the Zone, factions had something close to basic loadouts for troops."
>Even if it was literally just a turtleneck, jeans, and a leather jacket.
>And a shitty shotgun.
"That's pretty heavy... I imagine it could crumple non-enchanted plate like it was aluminum foil, and even put a dent in enchanted armor?"
>He pondered the idea for a brief moment.
"Sounds like a breaching hammer... but a mace."
>He squinted at the unicorn.
"Graven-Carved? I'm not familiar with the term."
>Though he wasn't too familiar with a lot of these ponies' terms, he'd admit. Too busy making a mountain of empty vodka bottles until quite recently to pay close attention to them.
Razorback Fortress: The Workshop
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390288
390737
>>390286
"I will take your word for it."
>Untroubled in mind, body, and soul, the smith's spirit wasn't anywhere close to dealing with that topic.
>The damn hoof-toucher.

"You are highly correct, which is why I am now taking over most of the equipment and equipmarent testing, procuremarent, and everything related to such. That particularly includes the Fucking New Guys and Girls."
>He did not sound anywhere near close to happy using that phrase.
"No humans are allowed to leave the Fortress until they meet my minimum standards.
In addition, I prepared several hundred flexible stainless steel hi-alloy and titanium clips, springs, hooks, buckles, and others for Lann's usage. She has come up with several forms of armored pouches for clips, magazines, and most grenade styles. Likewise that allowed her to create a basic standardization system, however most ponies prefer custom designs tailored to a single individual's specifications.
That does exclude most in Stalliongrad, Rushya, some Ferron, parts of the Navarchy, and certain unicorn... groups, shall we say."

>Partway through the process, Krinza becomes lost in visceral horror over.... ssssomething.
>Shaking out of it, he glances to you with a nod, once more briefly inspecting the exoskeleton's exterior.
"Easily. The handle, at least what remains, is hollow-filled though with what I am not positive. A solid steel cylinder of the same dimarensions would weigh from twenty-six to thirty-five pounds, depending on which alloy is used."
>Eyeing the mess of riveted pins with some disdain, the yellow and black unicorn's face takes on a faintly amused cast.
"It may as well be. Graven-Carving is a form of Minotaur 'smithing'. I am not disparaging the term, only the terrible translation and typical lack of further explanation often given.
A bar, round, or other stock is heated to a within near-specific temperatures, then while still hot, continuously bent, pressed, folded, and rolled against solid objects, typically a number of standing, heavily secured anvils and other structures."
>Placing the spear head into his furnace, it warms quickly under close watch, reaching in to forcefully bend the design back into a proper shape while he speaks above the noise.
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] <M.Elemarental Chemistry
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <M.Research
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <GM.Enchanter
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14]
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13]
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (4+11) = 15] <GM.Crafter
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17] <GM.Smith
[1d6+11 = (4+11) = 15]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16] <Runic Anvil
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Runic Engraving Blade
[1d6+12 = (5+12) = 17] <Runic Hammer
>Completed Projects:
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13] <Human Alloys
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13] <Human Composites
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13] <Scaling

"The raw strength of a Minotaur is almost always one-third more than the majority of unicorns or Psions are able to produce esoterically, and the various low, middle, and high-classed alloys produced in that process allows for the formation of unique patterns, as well as either better tensile strength or durability. Most humans would call it a semi-modern version of rolled homogeneous plating, however nearly all Minotaurs also incorporate a fair number of deep mystical blessings.
I believe the Crystal Empire has four, perhaps five, older processes which are fairly similar, though I have not studied them. This will take me perhaps ten minutes to repair, though in the meantime I would greatly advise taking a look at what is for sale. And perhaps visit the Enclave to see what else would be useful for you.
Unfortunately the miniaturized grenade project has been cancelled. I do not know when it will be picked up again, so keep an eye out for postings from the Dragonspine Mountians."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390303
390340
>>390272
>Amy looks to the Baroness and returns a mischievous shrug
"I dunno, I just do it!~"
>It was true in a sense, she almost never did such things on purpose, sounds just slip out in the manner that they do.
>Eyes turned to her dam as she explained tones and the trickery she had pulled with them, pointedly learning that she could mimic the voices of others on purpose, her smile slowly growing.
>Amy didn't mind the food herself, it was still good, and yet she interjected proudly after her father had finished explaining that she could hunt after she'd gone to the world above.
"I'm going to learn how to fish!~"

>She philosophically accepted that her parents often got into arguments with each other, and that such arguments often devolved into playful scuffles. This was a normal fact of life to her, and it was funny.
>The filly however was more interested in taking bites out of her Kerbann slice more than anything, and she definitely did not wish for the table to become an improptu battleground.
>Again.

>Going still at Baroness Avernus' request, Amy furrowed a brow thoughtfully as she chewed and swallowed, staring off into the middle distance with confusion.
>Baroness isn't her first name?
"Baroness isn't her first name?"
>Did she say that out loud?
>Wait, her father's name was Umakachov? Catcher of horses?
>Her dam's laughter was infectious, causing her to snicker, but Amy didn't really get why it was funny.
Natilda
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390305
390342
>>371918 →
>I won't even mention the chaos of a warhead going off in the middle of our BASE.
"And what if there's something you can't detect?"
>There's always some weird shit going on and I hold a small doubt that Wild can detect everything on this planet.

"I'm your mother I can tell you to do whatever I want."
>Staring for a moment.
"Even if you don't listen, it at least allows me to put in a bit of input. I know I can't make you do anything."
>If she were the size of a human child however.
>I could recognize that tone anywhere, I've had it with my own mom.
"Besides, I'd set you up with a pony. They're much... more familiar to me than another eldritch thing."
>It would be a lot less confusing on how to communicate with, for one.

>ANYWAY.

"While quite an improvement.. That isn't exactly much, still. Armor wise, I mean."
>Taking another look outside, I was awfully tempted.
"I think I'll step out for a few minutes, I've never liked being cooped up in confined spaces for a long time."
>Ignoring the fact I've had to do so several times for a good shot.
"Plus it'll help with you downsizing. Won't have to worry about injuring me."
Clemency
!.BxecfigoM
6d0dacb
?
No.390339
390344
>>390204

>It's still bad the M-S.O.L.G. got damaged that way
>It might take a wish disk for this thing to be back to full readiness
>Bit of a logistics problem if this thing needs wish disks to keep going though
>Clem sets the camera to keep track of the humanoid figure, thinking if that is Anon

>After noticing the shock on these pegasi, Clemency is dismayed that the area is beyond off limits
>He gets that the area is incredibly dangerous to the point that even Twisted Wing barely survived but still
>He looks around to the other Lunar ponies and he notices the same fear and rising anger amongst them
>There's conjecture about how to get to Jeff at least
>Clem mentally follows the suggestions but each one is struck down
>Especially the old ones, even as desperate of an attempt it is

>Tense moments aside, at least one is taking action
>Clemency looks towards the Charger next to him, finally able to get his word in
"So while we're in the know then, tell me if that's it then. Is Jeff just stranded at the whims of whatever took him and Emerald?"

>He then hears EnKee and Common from the side, listening for a second
>They seemed to have followed our conversation but then he sees them all fly off north
>He turns his attention back to the Lunar group
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390340
390395
>>390303
>Positively beaming at you, the elderly mare's head shakes in good natured motions.
"At minimum do not merely copy a voice; match the individual's speaking cadences, tones and subtones, and spend some time comprehending how emotional inflections are used as well."
>Taking on a faintly smug cast and doing nothing to dissuade from the small lesson, your sire pauses from weaving the stalks together.
"Mine was solely meant to fish in the Wells, for what little swims in them. Remember the rules of studying each new biome, adjust tactics accordingly, and you will do well."
>Frowning briefly, your dam glances at the den's skylight, then down to her plate.
"That's not something I can make again without spending a lot of time. Crysamare doesn't like bending and I can't get two of the rituals right. Depending on where the Gate opens to, you should easily be able to trade for one."
>Stepping forwards to spear a single root with a hard primary feather, Lila places it down once steam occurs.
"I know how to fish. Granted I didn't go out all that often on the lakes or rivers, but all I need is some thin wire or rope, a hook, and bait.. though I'd probably melt those or flashboil ponds in a few seconds."

>Lacking any concern at your dam's heaving laughter or sire's rapidly creeping annoyance, Avernus gives a short nod.
"No, my dear, it is not. The Legionaries are strict ultra-traditionalists, though I have done my best to soften some of that. Since I arrived they have steadfastly refused to address me by name as they felt such would be 'severely disrespectful to one of your heritage'. No matter how marely times I attempted to, politely, correct them, they.. have simply refused to accept otherwise.
The Shades and Half-Shades have their own languages, which only a few of us understand. I have been called Bossmare, Captain, Admareal, The Pointiest One, and General, among other amusing terms."
>Hefting the woven sphere up for a close examination, Umakachov delivers a polite head tilt at the unicorn.
>Right before tossing the sphere into his wife's open, laughing mouth, which she halts at, glaring NEAR-literal daggers this time.
"It is oftentimes rude to address one's supposed station rather than a title which has been earned. I do so from respect, yet I will honor your request as much as I am able to."

>Winding down from the actual feast into full evernight, most of the platter was empty.
>Particularly since you ate all but one slice of Kerbann.
>Rolling back into a comfortable position, Baroness Avernus glances between sire and dam, lifting a forehoof respectfully towards one, then the other.
"Sehr Umakachov and dame Amethyst, we have deemed both your debts paid, in full. As of now there shall no longer be limitations on your movemarents as the Great Wells can no longer seek to damage your lifespans. King Tachell has likewise assured me that we may begin opening the smaller ones below the Sixth Ring."
>Swiveling to place a gentle smile on you, a decently large, bright white double sided satchel drops heavily onto the pillow.
"Amethyst the younger, I have this gift for you. It contains marely coins of value, though I ask you do not open it until the Gate has been closed. It is best suited for... well, you will find out.
Once, these were so common each pony was given one, yet here I have been unable to replicate the design nor materials."

"Lilamaredre..."
>Settling a troubled expression on the pegasi for six seconds, Avernus takes a deep, shallow inhale, then releases it pensively.
"Whomever tried to kill you upon Tallus still lives. I can barely feel its actions times, but I have been able to comprehend where that individual has been.
Though I have taught you everything in my grimoires based upon the aspects of Flame and Lava, I know those will not be enough. Search out the Elemarentals, they shall know you as you know them."
>Head bowing slightly at the filly's expression hardening, and flames dancing across her feathers, Avernus tilts her head tiredly.
"Were I perhaps thirty years younger I would accompaneigh you both. However, my replacemarent has not taken to her duties well and there is still much to teach her. It is however evernight and the Gates should be aligning to the Alicorns."
>Instantly standing up and taking a massive step towards the older mare, Umakachov's gauntlets lightly grasp her barrel, aiding her in stepping off the couch.
"Which Gate do you intend to try?"
"First Ring, Sector Twenty Outskirts."
>Debating whether or not to eat the stalks, your dam's right eyebrow raises thoughtfilly.
"That's... not far from here. Why is one so close now active?"
"It is not active, dame Amethyst, only the tunnel leading to it is. Perhaps a creature or two wandered in, or a smaller dead end section collapsed. The pups have brought back little: a few sticks, some dried grass, an exceptionally old bone, most likely reptile, neither tainted nor corrupt. And a rock which I believe to be sandstone."
"Does it have eyes?"
>Stretching out her legs with an aery chortle, Avernus strides towards the den's door, opening it with a brief swirl form her horn and calling back as she leaves.
"This one does not, no. I shall immediately prepare and have the nearest Legionary inform King Tachell we are leaving. He will doubtless arrive long before I do-"

>Waiting until no further clops could be heard, precisely ten seconds pass, while Lilamaredre sighs.
"Not again..."
>Turning with a slowly spreading grin to his wife, black flickers gather across his right gauntlet, the other reaching down to snap his helmet up and on, clicking into place, then activating the vox system.
>Loudly.
"Garden or street, MARE?!"
>Rising into a standing position on the sofa, the Crystal mare's vibrating hums begin spreading deep crystalline streaks across her hooves.
"This time... street. Amy, you know what to pack-"
>One heaving back, other punching forwards, Umakachov and Amethyst disappear in a clash, summoning each other well outside.
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]
>vs>
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
Lost in the Crag Moors: STILL Stuck (In The Middle Of You)
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390342
390711
>>390305
"Then we should prepare to be ambushed inconsistently. Which may not make sense to you."
>Tuning the external speakers down to barely human audible, the tendril returns your stare with a small, twitching rotation, then swings side to side in a smarmy motion.
"You can, and I will listen. However, I have priorities, primarily involving your safety, which cannot be modified."
>All of the repair systems halt their motions.
>Nothing moves until the inside voice snickers.
"That would be impossible. Not only am I far taller than any pony known to Razorback or That Which Cannot Be Named, there is no information to imply one would ever consider me a valid mate. Correction: nearly impossible. Secondary correction: statistically impossible. Tertiary... no, no more corrections allowed at this time.
Update: no creatures larger than five pounds or near-equivalent volume detected within one thousand meters of my position. There are numerous underground species, no threats detected. Checking for long range movement now-"
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Arcanum Sensors Array
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] <Omni-Sensor Arrays: Wide Scan
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]

"I have noticed. And you are currently outside, mom."
>Taking a slow, careful sliding half-step forwards, Wild leans down enough to kneel, letting you step off onto the first real beach since arriving.
>It was, compared to the raging inferno from before, serene:
>Small waves touching shore, larger ones much further out, Moonlight touching the tops of vast stormfront clouds providing ample visibility, and a gentle rain now falling in earnest.
>Except for the burnt and falling down forest north above the beachline, clusters of ash still drifting downwards, or-
>That stench.
>It was definitely time to find a working gas mask.

>Remaining in the kneeling position, the Eldritch-Android's tendrils poke into damaged sections across her left arm, just as most of her body's entire outer armored hull... shrinks.
>Losing what might have been a centimeter, at best, small pods of purple-black Tryptaran mass squeeze outwards from damaged plates, latching on and pulling the majority back together in subdued crinkling foil noises.
>Sections of her burnt, twisted, and damaged leg plates reform in flowing motions which were puzzling, as if they were wax being melted and solidified at will, strangely making no sound.
>Nope, there weren't any words for this.
>Frozen in place, Wild emits a short, agonized electronic squeak.
"That did not feel good. I am unable to reduce my structural size but have successfully restored near-full lower body movement. And approximately eight percent of armor.
This option is being discarded until the remainder of my nodes have been accessed. REPLACING damaged components throughout my left arm-"
[1d6+14 = (4+14) = 18] <Grade 1 Auto-Repair
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17] <Grade 2 Auto-Repair
[1d6+13 = (3+13) = 16]
[1d6+13 = (5+13) = 18]
[1d6+20 = (6+20) = 26] <Tryptaran Autorestoration
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <Repair Tendril #1
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <RT-#2
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <RT-#3
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] <RT-#4
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8] <RT-#5
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <RT-#6
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] <RT-#7
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5] <RT-#8
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390344
390556
>>390339
>Adjusting position in fractions of fractions, the satellite indicates it had finally stabilized in orbit, and was still not liking it had been thoroughly placed in 53 degree water.
>Logic states closing the downlink for 0.8 seconds, the view returns in sharp clarity:
>Focusing directly onto the flattened oval and clearing, it would have been easily mistaken for a titanic snail shell, though had entirely sculpted from pure emerald, though definitely not in the Mystic classification, given the massive, radiant striations.
>Utterly spotless, nothing grew on or near it, nor was the vast section of soil surrounding disturbed in the slightest, barring unusual, small mounds scattered in random patterns.
>Ticking over calculations and per-tenth-second-cycles in machine learning, the M-S.O.L.G denotes approximately 3,000 meters of distance between the emerald mass to the ring of darkly shaded plant life.
>While the thoroughly unknown flora closest to the emerald hulk were not stunted, the explanations offered for a complete lack of nearby growth was widespread herbicide, radiation, or chemical waste.
>Constantly updating estimations and geographic surveys scrolling far too quickly to read, a notification appears:
>Positioned as it was directly straight above Razorback Fortress, the satellite denotes a nearly 38 degree angle while facing the back of the humanoid figure's head, then displays an 83% likely targeting solution for the TLS system, which was now 32% recharged.
>Head rotating in a smooth motion to face south, larger individual creatures dispersing around it, the rush of insects, reptiles, mammals, among a few avians, were entirely unknown, all bearing distinctly stealthy, predatory features.
>Likewise, the thick, thorn covered black vines acting as muscle across the figure matched nothing you knew of, though the emerald making up most of its body had been sculpted in swirling patterns.
>Estimating the target to be from 55 to 60 meters in height, that was not Anonymous, nor was it a golem.

>Turning one last glance your way, the Leadmare's battered helmet dips in a respectful nod, releasing the Chargers and Lancers to act individually once more.
>Helmet tipping upwards, the young mare's eyes regard you for several seconds, speaking amid the sounds of Lunars returning to their ritual scarring, heavier pegasi calling off searching buildings, the remainder flitting off into the surrounding swamps, or those heading towards the fountain.
"Don't know enough to say otherwise. This isn't the place or time though. I'll try to return in half an hour."
>Head shaking negatively before stomping forwards again, the only motions now were batponies carving the last names into diamond-covered walls, or binding streamers to the hundreds of lances, spears, pikes, halberds, and well over twenty styles of hoofblades.

>Moving through the carvers finishing their last traces, a severely old, dented, gouged, and rent dark blue Lancer armor, in the rare batpony configuration no less, stomps out of the veritable forest of weapons making up the former southern entrance.
>Remaining motionless until the last few batponies examine their work, glowing red, purple, blue, and black in the shape of diamond-slitted eyes drift about aimlessly.
>One of the rather common Void-corrupted, though physically contained at least.
>Settling on you a moment, a slight nod is given.
>Turning precisely ninety degrees to face directly east, a sharp, deeply piercing whistle-screech is released, the mid-30's batpony stallion hiss-shouts aloud in a vibrating, triple-echoed voice, stilling the Basin.
"PAY YOUR RESPECTS TO THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE DAWN APPROACHES!"

>Taking off her helmet to reveal a squashed, burnt silvery mane, soft blue coat, and dull, exhausted dark purple eyes, the unicorn leadmare lets it drop, staring upwards as streaks of orange and red begin tracing clouds above.
Cheto
!!/fIxJi3jro
760aefd
?
No.390394
390398
>>390192
>José nodded along with an amicable smile, his face radiating awe and wonder even as Pren gave the most succinct summary of the world plus the sea salt satchel discovery.
>Salt scraping's now on the table if he wished to accrue funds!

>However, as Salinas went deeper into the opportunities afforded to him at this current time, the faintest purse formed on his lips.
"Ah."
>Seems at the end of the day, the main way to become useful in his current position was through mercenary work.
>He definitely should've packed more.
>With a deep inhale, Gallo started the question conga.
<Spaneigh> "What might either of those be? Are there any representatives in this place that can provide them?"
>Mild concern threatened to slip past his polite smile
<Spaneigh> "What level of equipmarent is expected for these kinds of opportunities? What others dangerous threats reside in this region aside from the Beleram-ha?"
>He promptly gulped his faint apprehension back down, his hand instinctively reaching back towards Pren to lightly pet at the top of her head to calm himself down and think.
>Slow, smooth. Making sure not to mess up the mane if he could help it.
<Spaneigh> "Do these offers come in a first come, first serve basis if the requiremarents are met? Perhaps you'd know of any possible unassigned Mareguards in this area?"
>More of a band-aid solution to try and possibly get to work on something substantial.
>Accure some much needed experience to better resemble a functioning marember of Tallus.
>He sorely needs to, for his and his duties' sake.
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390395
390400
image.png
>>390340
>Mouth somehow forming a wavy line, Amy's ears twitched happily as she rested her chin in her hands and absorbed the new lore regarding resonant mimicry and fishing.
>She shared a conspiratorial if guilty glance with Lilamaredre over her dam's remarks about the skylight, for one, Lila's assault on it and for two, her role in baiting the pegasus into making that assault to begin with.

>Amethyst had heard the Baroness referred to as Baroness so often in her life by others that she had always thought Baroness was her name and her title, which would make her Baroness Baroness Avernus.
>In hindsight it was a silly notion, yet it had always made perfect sense to her. Now that illusion was broken.
>The filly's doe eye'd look at completely overlooking such a simple piece of information for much of her life, was replaced by snickering at the many other titles and a cheerful smile, ear wiggle and hand clasp.
"Avernus, then!"
>Followed by a highly amused side eye at her parents continuing conflict.

>As the feast wound down, so did Amy, electing to slowly savour her final Kerbann slice with a supreme expression of satisfaction and happy sighs.
"/ᐠ˵- ⩊ -˵マ"
>She only partially listened to and observed the goings on, entirely absorbed by the sadly diminishing fruit despite her efforts to make it last.
>Eyes snapping open at the mention of "gift", the filly locked onto Avernus with laser intensity, ears swivelling from their relaxed downwards orientation to point directly at the Baroness.
"Okaaay!~"
>Though she wouldn't be able to open it yet, she still quivered with excitement, yet...
>The satchel was out of her reach, and both her hands were preoccupied with the fruit.
>Had the ipotane been capable of scrunching her snoot, she would, sadly, she lacked a snoot of her own. Her mouth instead form a ever-so-slight inconvenienced zigzag shape as she considered the fruit and the satchel.
>Seconds passed in thoughtful consideration until she remembered she could hum, the ding of a light bulb sounding from... Somewhere.

[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] < B. Crystal Runes + Power
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]

>Humming gently, she floated the satchel over to her side where she could easily claim it once she needed to excuse herself. Carefully, and hopefully, not putting too much power into the resonance so that the gift full of metallic coins wouldn't be sent zooming across the room Kaotically.
>She watched as Avernus turned to Lila and spoke...
>Huh?
>Her contented chewing slowly came to a halt as the mental arithmetic tallied up at its usual glacial pace whenever Amy learned a piece of information she, for some reason or another, was partially unwilling to acknowledge.

>She mulled over the words and their implications methodically as the tunnel was discussed, Avernus departed, and her parents summoned each other out onto the street for another of their scuffles.
>Then it clicked.
"!"
>Her words came forth loud, echoed and booming from the shock and fury at what she had just heard.
"WAIT SOMEPONY TRIED TO WHAT MY BEST FRIEND?!"
Marequipa: Shoalbarge Villa
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390398
390475
Ari-Silfel.jpg
>>390394
>Sticking her hoof out once more and turning it up to show the flat piece, the clear imprint of a human hand carrying a studded huitzauhqui is crossed by a dual-beamed lance, both external sides heavily serrated, almost like shark teeth.
<Spaneigh> "This is a Coalition hoofstamp! It basically means I have full right-of-access to the their towns, lodges, and barracks. But not their armories, training grounds, or secret stuff. Only reason I was ordered to wear it is.. well, nopony here really cared much about helping them when they arrived. I spent months with a few of the Coalition's veterans getting food shipmarents to them through the Harpies, Ferron, and Navarchy.
Argentum honor-chains are given to those that perform militia or military duties. Basically it lets everypony know that when the Coalition needs information, they're supposed to get all of the information they're asking for. It also makes translocation and Warp Gate usage free, too!"
>Giving a triple snout twitch, the young mare's head tilts in clear concern, though smiles at the touch.
<Spaneigh> "The good kinds? You really shouldn't go anywhere across Tallus without having some type of armor, even it's it light. Your firearms... uh.. don't take this the wrong way, but they look REALLY shabby, not like the ones I've seen.
Most of the Coalition use spears, standard lances, and twin-beamed lances to deal with armor, natural or not. Maces, axes, and clubs are for general purposes, and sawblades, knives, or similar stuff for unarmored creatures.
Nets are pretty common too! Fishing stuff, tangling targets, or having a nap between trees, those are great multipurpose tools. Only the Harpies, Ferron, and batponies make those, but I haven't seen any of them tonight... which is really odd.
Navarchs don't trade theirs though, way too hard to replace."
>Greeting an arriving trio of pegasi whom immediately leap high into air, then wing towards the vessel's opposite end, Pren turns back to stare upwards in thought.
<Spaneigh> "Just around Shoalbarge and the villa north? At least two dozen, maybe three. There's lots of predators that aren't dissuaded by much, and some of the herbivores are frightening if or when spooked. Worst ones are in the water though.
As for the Beleram-Ha, it's a native but I've never seen one. Been told they live around waterfalls, have four legs, and look really odd. Nasty beak like an octopus, single horn pointing on the skull, tough reptile hide, and sharp pointed hooves. The Navarchs really likes hunting them, though... they haven't shown up tonight either. Which is really strange."
>Nodding several times quickly, the reflective brown mare flashes a wide, flat-toothed grin.
<Spaneigh> "Yep, they are! I usually hoof out the dangerous assignmarents to the Navarchs though, mostly to their in-training cadres. Then again there's ALWAYS somepony wanting SOMEthing done. And let me look-"
>Quickly checking the stands, stalls, and wandering ponies with keen eyes, Pren turns back to you with a frown.
<Spaneigh> "Not tonight, sorry. Argentum Mareguards rarely stay here for long, usually just enough to pick up a week or two of food, but one or two usually shows up on the weekends. Check back tomorrow and the next night."

>Visibly flatlining for five seconds, she emits a deep, disgruntled rumble, the unshod forehoof smacking metal decking.
<Spaneigh> "It's REALLY bizarre none of the Navarchs, Ferron, Harpies, Minotaurs, or batponies have shown up tonight. Almost every time they're here a bunch have contracts to hire out!
Also, since you don't have a chain or hoofstamp, give me a minute-"
>Fully turning around to whistle at a passing, shorter black earth filly, she switches to Common Equestrian with an amused, heavier tone.
"Hay, can you go find Ari? There's a hu`um here that needs a chain or hoofstamp, maybe both! She's probably in the Nest if she isn't fishing or down below!"
>As the filly's head sways, eyes roll, swinging in a big circle and trots past to the left, Pren returns to you with a short giggle.
<Spaneigh> "Oh, right! Villa de Rosa is a pretty big town way away from here. It's about fifty, maybe sixty miles southwest of Mareixico, on the Ferron coast. There's about twenty earth ponies and six hundred pegasi living there, they settled around a big natural spring about nine hundred years ago. And they sell HUGE flowers! Mostly roses though, but still tasty.
Pace Arroyos.. right, that's northern Burro territory. It's a bunch of washed out highland desert basins on the south side of the Mexicolt Mountains. Lots of gems and ore wash down which they collect to trade. I've heard there's huge stone ponds all over filled with pinchy things though. Ferron and Navarchs love that place, but Harpies seriously hate the dust."

>Interrupted by a bright, flashing blue ring of geometric, mathematical, and strange symbols forming behind Sallinas, what drops down to land on clawed feet is... definitely not something you expected.
<Spaneigh> "Greetings, human. I am Ari-Silfel of the Argentum Dominion. I do not recognize you at all, nor do you bear Coalition heraldry. Please explain why you come to be here."
>The voice was warm, pleasing, and held deeply Caribbean notes, though had a faint, sharp second echo after each word.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390400
390455
>>390395
>Strident vibrations beckoning wonders towards the gift, it accepts.
>Or didn't want to refuse.
>Lifting the satchel into place and hanging next to you, the sheer amount of weight stored inside was difficult to comprehend.
>While you weren't quite sure how over three hundred pounds of round, square, rectangle, and other geometric coins was contained, let alone carried, the soft, grainless white material smelled of primal magic infused with deep knowledge of storage.
>And the Baroness' light, faintly sweet scent too.

>Burning snout, meet partially on fire wing.
>The pegasus doesn't sigh, instead staring between her feathers at you, speaking in a dry, though reflectively amused timbre.
"You were among the first I saw upon arriving. I have told you whom I was with, where, when, and why. You also know sharing much of the same out loud will likely cause significant problems."
>Retracting, wings pat her sides in a somewhat chided marener, Lila exhaling heavily through her nostrils as she glances left towards the kitchen door, faint traces of flame swirling in the air.
"I am still unsure, yet.. Avernus spent hundreds of hours scrying and performing divination rituals. She has stated numerous times that the Alicorn signs are often clear during the transitions of night and day to feel, and sometimes see, the echoes of current events. Older events are much more difficult, however.
These are the facts we know: something did attempt to kill a pony nearby, yet the attacker did not specifically intend to harm me. At least, not at first. If I was the primary target, then I would not have survived. If I was a secondary target, then the methods used to kill me were stupidly inefficient and needlessly expensive. Since I was a collateral victim, the attacker was attempting to cause as much damage as statistically possible.
There is a problem though.
The second attack I heard and was nearly claimed by was likely part of a multi-stage diversion. Or, where we were had been selected as a target of opportunity to collapse the upper or lower rooms. It is also possible that same attacker knew my teacher, which she may have been unaware of, or chose not to pursue.
There are not marely other possibilities, but the Baron... Avernus, examined me for some time. What struck me first was a well prepared, ritually created Air explosive. Next was a wide spread Gravity spell, though she was unable to determine if it was magical, Mystical, or possibly Psionic. Last, fragmarents of an odd, poorly completed manabomb were found in my feathers... and my rear."
>Grimacing in partial recall, her left wing flaps outwards to dismiss the memories of being unable to sit for long, likewise leaving flames dancing around.
>Which she stares at angrily before inhaling them.
"The only answers to these questions will be found on the surface. And, I cannot help you pack."

>Failing to completely reach the street outside, noises of stone being ground underhoof and underboot, a solid thump from pseudometal striking hardened mare, the satisfying ringing of armor plates hold against unbreakable hoof, then a surprised electronic *blat* upon being bodyslammed.
>Listening to the melodious, frenetic combat outside, it sounded like your dam was slowly winning, albeit taking more strikes than necessary.
>At least this time they weren't COMPLETELY in public view.

"Do they ever stop? ...........I should make sure there are no Legionaries watching."
>Lila's fiery eyes shut, head shaking side to side in slow, exasperated motions.
"Or the Kratha. Amy, I will not be taking anything, other than myself, so the extra space is yours."
>Offering a polite, short nod, the other filly turns about in a smooth motion, then high-trots towards the door, flinging it open and leaping out in a single continuous motion.
>Instantly covered in flames, the sigh can be felt as she leaves to cease another potentially awful round of bets.

>Feeling completely full, which wasn't all that common except the times a fish was caught, or the Legion found wild plats, it also felt like a great time to take a short nap.
>...probably shouldn't have eaten the last slice.
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390455
390486
>>390400
>Amethyst stared as Lilamaredre went on.
>She knew about much of what had occured before the pegasus had found herself poking her head over the lip of a crater all those years ago, as Lila had previously explained.
>But for someone to have willfully attempted to kill her, however indirectly, set her mood darkening and expression hardening by the second.
>She opened and closed her mouth multiple times to interject, but no words came out. It was rather pointless to give voice to the hows and whys, Lila of course, did not know.
>Amy shuffled uncomfortably as the prospect of leaving came up again, worse with this knowledge on top of the traitorous ones she had been witholding.
"Do these questions have worthwhile answers? Maybe... I think..."
>She waved her arms and hands uselessly, words not coming to her.
>Lila was a pegasus, there was no talking her out of pursuing this, and the very suggestion of remaining in exile, whether here or in secret on Tallus above, could easily be construed as an insult.
>She settled for responding with a sigh and an affirmative to the second part of her statement
"Of course."

>Mood lifting a little at the sounds of her father and dam scuffling out on the street, Amy turned her gaze to the window.
>They weren't right outside of course, but angling her head and ears in that direction made it easier to hear what was obviously her dam performing a flawless bodyslam.
"Nope, and I would never wish them to. There is little purer an expression of spirit than a gleeful scuffle."
>Amethyst affixed Lila with a meaningful side eye just as the pegasus made her way for the window.
>She muttered.
"What's wrong with placing bets? Second best way ta loot sum flashy bitz."

>The filly stood away from the table and wandered off to her room, hugging the satchel in both arms and rolling her eyes upward as though she could peer at the guardsman on her head.
"We've got more line holding to do it seems. The more serious sort than the funny sort. 'Kill my best friend', un-bee-lee-vable!"
>The filly yawned and nudged her door open with a hoof.
>Can't nap, had to pack.
>All of her puppet friends, of course, leaving them was never an option, and she would need their teachings more than ever.
>She got properly dressed, shedding her robe, getting her nightclothes off and replacing it all with her prosperine outfit, one set of her patterned leafy socks and her juggernaut boots before slipping back into the scarabite robe.
>Chewed sword? Check, on her back it went.
>Tonal kit? Into the scarab pack.
>The small collection of shinies she kept in her room? Into the scarab pack.
>Pet rock? Into the scarab pack.
>Sock collection? Into the scarab pack.
>Her other clothing? Into the scarab pack.
>Selecting each puppet, she buttoned each one onto the strip of cloth she used to carry them around when they weren't on her hands and buttoned the strip to the scarab pack, letting them dangle out in the fresh air instead of having to ride roughshod inside the pack.
>Her pet rock could take it, he was a tough old salt. The puppets would surely complain, they liked... Or in some cases demanded, to be close at hand.
>She did however reassign the guardsman with the others and placed the elegant, black and white armoured eldar on top of her head, where she likewise remained affixed inexplicably.
>All that remained was her Stick, which she took to hand and leaned on, closing her eyes and taking a short moment to cycle the flow of magic between it and herself in idle loops.
>Despite having packed everything she could think of, Amethyst looked around her room, brow furrowed a little, as if the very metaphysical substance of it could be crystallised, rendered tangible, and taken with her.
>She did not want to leave when it came down to it. Oh she'd heard for years that eventually she would have to, that she accepted, it was rational and she couldn't argue with it. There were pressing reasons why neither herself nor Lilamaredre could remain.
>And yet... This was home, and she would be leaving it for a world she knew nothing of through her own experiences, only the teachings of others, from journal entries and scattered lore and word of mouth.
>Lilamaredre, her puppets, they would be the only links back to this world apart from yet inextricable from Tallus.
>No more gifting wars with her father, no more singing with her dam, no more lessons from Avernus or anybody else, no more visiting the Kenhals, or sleeping in Kerbann trees, or trying and failing to break into places she wasn't meant to go in the neverending pursuit of forbidden lore, or anything else she'd had taken such joy in for all her life.
>This really did feel like they were truly leaving this time, yet Amethyst held tight the traitorous little thought that they would fail and she would have just a little more time.
"I can come back here, I know that, but never to live. The disjointment of time will only serve as a more thorough severance."
>Amy did not need to scry very far into potential futures to know that.

>Outside, the filly thought she might have heard the noises of a hothead chasing away onlookers. Might be her imagination though.
Cheto
!!/fIxJi3jro
3b1cc56
?
No.390475
390489
>>390398
>Cheto would nod along, pursing his lips at the particular mentions of strange Coalition member behavior going on today.
>A blessing or a curse?
>Villa de Rosa might just be his next stop if he wished to find proper mareguards of any kind, then.
>José curtly bowed after Pren invited the currently unknown Ari, smiling graciously.
<Spaneigh> "My deepest thanks, miss Salinas. You've been of great help."

>And then came what looked to be an honest to Celestia human with wings for arms and claws for feet.
>Because of course.
>He could swear he's seen species like her in mythological texts back in high school!
>One singular blink, mainly to wash away his mild astonishment, before returning to his usual polite demeanor.
<Spaneigh> "Salutations, Ari-Siffel. My name's José Gallo, human male seeking knowledge, friends and opportunities amidst the new world. It is a pleasure to meet you."
>The second curt bow soon follows, sent back into uncharted social territory.
>Remember: No Assumptions.
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390486
390494
>>390455
>Swinging up and around to pass over the skylight, Lila tries to speak through it.
"-ot flashy enough fo-"
>And misses the timing as per usual.

>Bayonet wiggling at the upper edge of vision, it had moved forwards.
"Let's see them fight ALL of us!"
>Of course, it definitely couldn't, especially if more friends were found, made, put back together, paid, or, best of all, summoned!

>Calm, subdued anti-Elemarentals swirl through the Kerbann branch, brightening in pseudorecognition.
>Access... granted.
>Picking the most concise, least resisted courses upwards into your hand, it had no need of being dipped in a Well.
>Or all of them in one cycle.
>Smoothly drawing the significant increase of Fire from you to leave a comfortable, well below room temperature ratio, it would hold and bleed off far more, though still felt stifled in the much too stable surrounding.

>Pack sufficiently weighed down enough to counterbalance the hoofboots seeking to keep you leaned slightly forwards at all times-
"Let the mists of space and time retreat from your mind. Home is what one carries with them, not where where your hooves are."
>Various grumbles were that the replacement was decent at her general duties, though recovering older or lost Gates for rebuilding had turned into an obsession rather than a priority.
>The currently prospected ones were met with resistance from Tachell claiming the mare's overly eager efforts wouldn't match up, at least until opening more Wells.
>As a travel network the Gates were awfully inconsiderate, especially the dreaded stairs.

>Not so distant, musically loud ringing of two rear hooves clanging are somewhat dampened by a hollow thump, then shrapnel scattering against outside walls.
>That was definitely an explosion.
>The third if you counted those first two hits!
>A single gleeful neigh of victory being claimed is met by immediate corrections relating to improper stances, missed defensive and offensive opportunities, lacking effective counters, the list continuing while the den door opens.
"-ot hearing this especially after winning!"
"Twice you failed to anticipate low strikes, and your pacing control needs more work."
"My hoofwork is perfect and flawless, and I am NOT winded!"
"Striking at every moving object is for a barbarian with no tactics."
"Bah! You're forgetting the fact that I will always be the superior choice for breaking mere static defenses!"
>It didn't take much for vox-tinged laughter to shake crysamare windows.
"Were I an emplaced bastion you would be correct, yet you lack cohesive focus in countering the movements of smaller targets! Simply attempting to crush them over and over is ineffective-"
"I do, but it always works, RIGHT!?"
"As you say, MARE!"

>Nope, it never changed.
"All those that oppose your dam shall fear her hooves."
>Indeed.
>Heavy hooves meeting floorboards inside the den, then quick, rattling breaths, Amethyst the older wasn't quite struggling while pulling on something heavily.
"Ready to go Amy? We're ready to go! Lila is... .....making circles out there."
Marequipa: Shoalbarge
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390489
390951
>>390475
>Blinking through the quickly dissipating magic, Pren's ears wiggle merrily before nodding.
<Spaneigh> "You're welcome."
>Unshod hoof lifting and waved, the young mare swings left and breaks into a medium canter, calling over her shoulder.
<Spaneigh> "I'll be back in a few, going to check if anypony's seen the Lunars or Navarchs!"

>Light level returning to dark, the Harpy stands to full height, claws scraping as the definite female turns to face you.
>Nearly half a foot taller than you, Ari's head tilts right and down in a slow, respectful motion.
<Spaneigh> "Silfel is our clan name. There is neither Siffel nor Sillel upon this century. Annoying they were to be apart, best together they should have been."
>Wings folding onto her sides in a stately manner, the oddly contained ocean blue spheres connecting pseudoarms fade into dull black.
>Entirely motionless and seeming to study you for three seconds, the unusual crown gleams in bright gold, each of the oval gems studded throughout brightens to an acceptable dull red.
<Spaneigh> "My demand, I feel, is answered by quarters. You do not appear surprised to walk among equines of stone, nor panic upon witnessing open vulgarity of the Flows... do you be unruffled by this all?"
>Left eye squinting briefly, Ari's wings fold behind her, slightly leaning forwards with a curious aery timbre.
<Spaneigh> "Many are the answers required, I fear. Know you not of the Sovereign's distaste for outsider hu`um? If not, from where do you come, with what intentions? If so you do, why? Crashed Shoalbarge is a place for trade, not a playground of wanderers nor mercenaire."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390494
390554
>>390486
>Though the timing had been missed, Amethyst got the gist of it.
>The Guardsman was correct, allies would help immensely. This was not a fight that had to be fought alone, and that was an uplifting thought.

>Amy hauled the satchel up, placed it within the pack snugly and settled the pack on her back.
>With the transferrance of Taldeer to her free hand and Kerbann stick in the other, the filly responded wryly.
"If I could but pick up and carry the whole of this and everybody in it, I could literally have home with me."

>Ears twitching at the barely muffled noises of scuffling, Amy surmised her dam must have won, though wondered what exactly had caused that explosion.
>The victorious neigh, however, confirmed her guess. Another win for her dam's brute force approach to scuffles.
>Wandering back out to meet with them, she caught her father's criticisms of her tactics. He wasn't wrong, but...
>Her dam was right, she kept using brute force, and it kept working.
>Sharing a glance with Taldeer, she nodded in agreement.
"Indeed."

>Humming in acknowledgement, Amy tapped her stick against the ground and shuffled weight from hoof to hoof.
"Yup, I believe so."
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
8419811
?
No.390495
390566 390569
>>390105
>Noting Hodch being buried, he works on parting the masses of valuables above where Hodch was.
"So the Dragonspine Mountains are under corporate entity control? And economic regulation of local and foreign economies is performed through purposefully scarce production of these high value composites?"

>Pareidolia follows along with Hodch's impromptu lecture, scrutinizing the example gems as they float by.
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]

>Glancing briefly towards Dul's pile and realizing the sudden shift to complete accuracy, he looks back to his own work before focusing back on the rotating gem circle.
(By what principles are Vortex creatures even perceiving these sorts of things?)
The 0th Ring.
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390554
390572
>>390494
>Floating on the edges of vision throughout your room, the medium, large, giant reliquary quality pieces would continue to astound the three whom would certainly enter.
>At least until a Legionary mistakes one skylight or door for another during a shift, and would instantly pass out from the collected anti-Elemarentals.
>The thought of a constantly increasing pile of ponies which wouldn't be noticed for at least four hours, at best, was deeply inspiring.

"Such would be among the heavier burdens to carry, yet only one question remains: should you?"
>While the pack's currently heavy weight was sufficient to keep you well balanced, the house and full contents was a little over 180 tons.
>And how would you keep the rooms from being changed around?
"It is a mystery."
>Quite.

>Receiving a warm, short vibrating twinge from your dam, her short, ringing clops indicate she was dearly struggling to exit the front door.
"Then it's time for a ride too! ....a pretty short one though. Still, come and hop on!"

>Loudly scorching passes in air above and around the closest houses are accompaneighed by inconsistent, stinging swats from hardened feathers to unyielding pseudometals, amid barely concerned, carefully measured vox humor.
"Lila, I do not believe it wise to continue harrying Legionaries when they are clearly uninterested in retaliation. They are professional military individuals, not Guard.
Or militia.
Or merely unusually small, colorful horses with pointy sticks and sharp blades attached to their hoofbots.."
>Which one was going to be smacked first this time?
Clemency
!.BxecfigoM
6d0dacb
?
No.390556
390570
>>390344

>Yeah, definitely not Anon
>Instead, it reminded Clem of some sort of ancient ruin with the carved emerald and statue
>Since this is a sensitive place, personal research may have to be done
>It concerns Clemency greatly though, having to essentially wait for an answer of getting to this place
>But wait he would have to do

>Watching the Leadmare go, he watches the Lunars and the batponies
>He returns the nod to the Void-corrupted Lancer before also looking east
>He didn't realize it was blue hour already as he sees the sky light to a twilight
>He looks up to soak in the skyscape before bowing his head down, paying his respects to the Nightmare as he was told
>After finishing, he remembers that he was supposed to go Lann's shop
>He begins to head that direction, trying to ignore the exhaustion, figuring he can rest after getting those cases translated
>When he reaches the shop, he looks through the windows to the inside before heading in
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication Post #1/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390566
390569 390576
>>390495
>Barely noticing the weight aside from having difficulties moving his freed leg, Hodch's ears splay backwards in consideration while focusing on the rarest specimarens.
"To the first, in an extremely loose manner of speaking that is correct. However, our term 'corporation' is simply a large scale version of a cooperation, which itself is a medium scale cooperative, and so on. Unlike the oftentimes negative human connotations, those are large groups of individuals whom share the same goal: to provide for one's family by trading to those whom have needs, desires, or wants for their goods, services, and knowledge.
The Dragons themselves care for the Corporation as a whole, except those too old or injured to offer more than advice. Shipping thermally conductive or Elemarental absorbing composites to those whom suffer from overheating, or individuals with specific sensitivities caused by Tallus entropic fields, allows them to gauge what is necessary to produce, and remain mostly peaceful with each other. They enjoy performing divinations for metals, gems, or the best places to construct new villages, towns, outposts, fortress, and the like. Nearly all will offer knowledge, perform rituals, and conduct ceremonies such as mareriages and hoof-bondings when asked. They also have spotless record in blessing herdships and foals, which isn't well known.
The youngest Dragons can be found digging tunnels, learning from their elders, and travelers as well, while delicately exploring Dragonspine ruins is a matter of honor. At times, from two to ten are summoned to dissuade threats, make peace, enforce certain accords, or tasked to destroy creatures and beings best left unspoken.
To the second, also yes. The Dragons, Vigilants, and Legions are not profiteers. The greater majority are sapient Dracosines; wyverns, drakes, serpentari, Basilks, true Basilisks, among numerous others. Earth ponies make up perhaps twenty percent, from lineages which left the Dynasty, but only a few will ever speak of that matter. A few pegasi, Crystal ponies, Saddle Arabians, and Neighsians stay during favored parts of the year too. Unicorns are considered extremely rare as we do not do well in the oftentimes painful amount of Elemarentals.
Well off track, again. In sum: the Dragonspine Mountains Mining Corporation steadfastly refuses to intervene in political matters, aside from ones which would threaten them. They rarely forego opportunities to deliver aid shipmarents when disasters or catastrophes occur however, even to opposing factions. This ensures the Mining Corporation's neutrality, a standard which they hold themselves to with great honor.
Bear in mind the higher royals, those being the Queens, Kings, Empress, and Emperor, may sometimes individually intervene if they believe doing so will ease tensions.
Dissimilarly, Princesses and Princes are allowed to travel wherever they please, offer gifts or knowledge, and make one time only trade deals so long as they send their assigned herald and messenger first. They are likewise held to excruciatingly strict codes of conduct, particularly when dealing with equines."

>Easily surpassing the Siren's slow, dedicated searching throughout and noticing Katyal struggling to find space for her share, only settling on the best ones for now, the sheer amount of knowledge shared throughout the past hour holds firmly.
>Back and forth recalling facets, cuts, shapes, weights, and translating values according to current Crystal Empire trading, you'd picked up a serious amount of information.
>'Shiibo' had recorded everything in detail, creating well over two hundred new branching file paths.

>Taking a short break on the metaramid mat, the Reservist eyes the vast selection of rare coins and bars next to the doors in satisfaction.
"Two-point-eight tons in one hour or so. Given the age, rarity, cuts, and location that should be worth approximately nine hundred thousand Bits.
The previous class I gave was four hours on Undead, though this was more interesting, historically speaking. Do you have a complete recording, Lone?"
*"Yep, got about ten different angles too. If the jamming lifts I can send it all straight to the Fortress. Just hope there's enough room on the servers."*
"There should be. A certain pain in most flanks stated the public datastacks, or however she called them, would be accessible once her engineer activates them."

>Eyes watering from the strain of repeating one task much too often, Katyal rips her jacket off, tosses it up to hit the ceiling, then throws herself back with a stiff groan.
"I thought ten minutes of paperwork used to be torture-"
>Waving his left forehoof, a dark blue cloud grabs the jacket, politely folds it, and sets it on the woman's chair, Hodch lets out a dry, knowing chuckle.
"Then relax for a while. You could add another expansion to Folunasi's recovered marension now."
>Rolling onto her left side, face in the coin pile now, her right arm raises, hand making faux-lethargic swirls.
"Don't even wanna think about that. Barely got done restoring six out of the ten barracks, four out of eight armories, forty-nine towers out of eighty, then the six main and nineteen smaller fountains. Added ten more of those though, foals love 'em."
"Is that all?"
"Nope. Sixteen of fifty underground single-herd homes aren't done, five of fifteen warehouses, and nineteen small plazas haven't been touched yet. Did finish sixty traveler’s lodges, but she's still irked at what was left behind."
"Any indications of damage resulting from the Dynasty's collapse, or Lunar-Solar War?"
"Nah, not a trace of either. Used to be a giant seawall at the Triburtary's end, it got ripped apart over time thanks to fucking ocean megafauna. Some megaflora moved in later, didn't help but nothing we couldn't burn out after a couple tries.
Jeff and me got real lucky we didn't run into any of THOSE monsters."
"Progressing smoothly then?"
“Mostly, yeah. Waiting on slabs to be done gets real boring though.”
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication Post #2/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390569
>>390495
>>390566
>Studying Dul flexing out rubber-like claws, Hodch then surveys the remaining treasure, casually sorting out only silverine.
"You noticed as well? Those from the Vortex see Tallus from a unique perspective, one which may be purely energetic. Primal, raw, refined, everything between and outside, as well as, and I do not know how this works, the intentions of each. They inherently 'see' meanings which are familiar to themselves, though comprehending such takes, well, focus, and a great deal of teaching, usually from older individuals of their particular species.
I believe Dul has had enough time to acclimate to a low nominal standard. She can now adequately determine older energies and resonances from those which are currently active."
>Bouncing up and into a standing position, the false-mare smiles widely, stretching out both sets of long front claws which solidify.
>Partially.
"It true now! Dul now know not-moves, barely-moves, sometimes-moves, and it-moves."
>Head swiveling to nicker at the greensteel sphere, she nods in an earth pony-like appreciative motion, then turns gleaming purple eyes at the Void-Flux containing locker, both trios of Riftdrowner strands curling together on her pseudophysical sides.
"Dul really like living metal, it sing lots. Pretty colors too! But Dul think it-wants-to-move-like-living not like being here. Also Dul not want taste it."
>Gaze turning blank at an unstamped silverine coin in shifting white hues, the unicorn reaches up to rub his chin with one knee, then the other.
"Grenach`planyayne sings as well? Odd. Haven't heard it myself though reports are quite common. And a bit humorous.
As for the Void-Flux, do not be concerned. In its purely raw state it is indeed strange, but only seeks to return itself back to the Moors where it originated. It would be easy to find which batpony city would trade that much. I estimate fifty thousand tons of cut stone would have been the cost.
...I also know MY comprehension of the Vortex is sorely lacking."

*"Finally got all the settings fit to my specs, controls were way overtuned.
Just a heads up people, pony, Siren, and little miss: I can push this babe to nearly two-hundred and sixty miles per hour in straight lines, but there aren't many of those. Trees are starting to get a little smaller, so I'm keeping us from one hundred to one hundred sixty for the most part.
And uh, Hodch? Bunch of real strange particle traces, little specks and jitters sort of dancing around. They’ve been hitting the armor, bouncing off, collecting together, then.. dunno how to say this right, other than: doing weird shit."*
"Do they seem to explode without physically doing so, then move in highly erratic predefined patterns?"
*"Exactly! None of them are going through the hull, and they aren't leaving marks or traces either. Rerculon says they're high and extreme energy radioactive particulates too, reflecting off each other and making huge false echoes. Aren't similar to anything in our records either."*
"Those-"
>Face hardening, then softening, the purple stallion's snout twitches in recall, sitting up straight and taking on a disbelieving expression.
"Sustained Elemarental particles, here? That’s not possible.”
>Awkwardly rolling around to sit up in a meditation pose, Katyal stares down, then at the roof, left hand reaching up to press below the same side ear.
“Hey Lone, estimated distance from target location?"
*”Right about three hundred and eighty miles. Why, what’s up?”*
“Some real shonky shit, that's what, here, getting you some info. Take the downlink, scan for the top.. what was it, twenty? Thirty, maybe? Eh, try the top fifty configurations. I left my inspection systems at home so Folu could use them if she needed. Hodch, can you feel any of them?"
"Well, since we are sealed in here, no, not at the momarent. Nibbles, can you come down for a minute?”
>Phasing downwards while emitting a distinctly pleased meow heralds, the batcat lands on her side in a huff right of the unicorn, whom smiles wryly.
"Did you intend to land that way?"
>A short negative head shake and snicker-hiss.
"Nevermind then. Hold still please."
>Head twisting about, then pillow floating a relaxing Nibbles up for several deep sniffs, the Melari is set down again with a hard cast.
"I don't scent, sense, or feel any, which means they are fully active and living. It would take approximately fifty Cores in close proximity, hundreds of native Elemarentals in a gathering, or several tons of refined Elemarental metals to produce them. We would have to be within two to five miles of those three options to even begin noticing them."
*"Can't be, I've only been picking up sleeping critters, underground nests, a few probably not too big monsters, some strange looking birds, and a bunch of ruins. Nothing left in those except the foundations."*
"Can you determine where the majority of particles are coming from?"
*"Already have, one second.. one to two-point-three degrees northwest."*
>Stretching her arms overhead, the First Responder's pointed sigh is muffled throughout the passenger compartment.
"I can think of two places that might be similar."
"Which would be?"
"Buzzard's Rest for one, but with a lot more bullshit than just the particles. Ever been near the Burning Bridge?"
"Three times, at an extreme distance. Once with Twisted Wing, twice with Chuz`Ain. Why?"
"That's where the Eyes are created slash born."
>Taking on a droll, somewhat serious teacher's tone, Katyal reaches out to pick up a reflective kanpri coin, stamped with a quarter Moon pattern.
"It's basically a huge river of Fire and Lava Elements between the path of a few dozen Dynasty towns, Temples and some tiny City-States. All those Cores went boom one day; lots of native ones, Planar, a few Otherworld, couple Spectral, and exactly one Extra-Planar.
Means there's either a not-so-ruined ruin, an active Temple, or a City-State out there. Pare, show us the maps again would ya?"

[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390570
390744
>>390556
>Excluding only batponies, whom often had to be ordered NOT to make sacrifices with fruits, insects, stones, sticks, leaves, or most anything else, Lunars halt to give silent appreciation.
>Pleasing streaks of pale red, orange, white, amid faint traces of silver and gold wash across the perpetual cloud cover, the Void-corrupted lazily clomps towards the rest of Razorback...
>All the while sharply whistling the tones to a fairly normal, albeit lewd traveling song.
>Typical.

>Striding across Basin Village to the northeastern building, the cleanup detail had been thorough, leaving no trace of debris aside.
>Peering in through the first bay window of Lann's shop, one Charger pegasus, which could easily have been confused for a tall Ferron, was checking behind the counter.
>Obviously not finding a human hiding behind it, the mare backs up to release a tired, dissatisfied neigh.
>Skidding sideways to rush the door, the Charger bounds out, taking off in a run towards the next.
>It was still completely empty, as before.

*"Havest translated Mama's Tone, codices affirmed. A..."*
>Metallic buzzing that might have been an attempt at throat clearing occurs, Guillotine speaking in subdued timbres.
*"Mine furious apologies great in numbers, ye grace. There be no sarcophagi aheld within, nor hold ought save a 'long made seat for the pilot'. 'Tis most odd phrasing. Why a seat made long, tae sleep mayhaps?
Safe it be tae explore, save thee combat damage. Shall mineself attempt tae-"*
>Two dull thrums in the background occur, as does an aery, confused electronic chirp before switching to a faintly impressed tone.
*"Held decent from issuing dock, this 'built' vessail has. Ninth Fleet leavest not a pin from records made, near-whole it was 'pon laid tae rest asides thee damage. Mineself knowest not why form made by claw, tool, an' machine, yet weapons be traces akin to mine own.
Newest record of such be thee Eighth Fleet, when last Arena of League built tae rest mine kin's vessails. Year of Tallus in number: two-eight-six-five-one.
Knoweth this much ye shall of Constructed Twos of thee years prior: ranges of weaponry, armor classifications, internal systems, configurations, threat ratings for each. More tae be visited 'pon.
Studied compositions of Rift Plane metals old Fleets did. Act as blood it does, as steel it must. Asame, weapons and armors studied.... fewest answers be all. Perchance neigh answers?
Of equines whom attempted a bond towards: crystal first, bat second, horn, earth, then wing in priority."*
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
8d3bdad
?
No.390572
390575
>>390554
>Amethyst smiled lightly, her room had played host to a pile of unconscious Legionaries before, and likely would again even with her absence.
>Amy pondered the question before laughing at the ridiculousness of it. Of course she should.
>She had currently collected almost four tons of gifts, why not the entire dimension?
"Yup! The collection must grow larger!~"

>Amy's head snapped almost disturbingly quickly in her dam's direction the picosecond she said the magical words, eyes sparkling.
"Really? Yes!"
>The filly loped over and, careful not to poke her dam with the sheathed chewed sword, clambering onto her back and hugged her around the withers.
"Thank you, mom!"
>Last ride.

>Looking up, Amy watches Lilamaredre ride the wind and harass onlookers as she had said she would.
>Though Amethyst noticed that at least some of the Legionaries were repeat offenders of the air space, returning for second and third peeks at, sadly, the scuffle that had already ended.
The 1st Ring: Ground Level
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390575
390630
>>390572
>Stick pulsing brightly at the Elemarentals drawing from your room, the puppet speaks in calm surety.
"Then you must return with gifts not even the venerated mare knows of.... or instruct traveling Legionaries to deliver such if you cannot."
>That might take a while depending on the rebuilding, and how the smaller Wells would offer anything of value.
>Or if they became lost, with and without a map.
>Or confused.
>Disoriented.
>Lost again..
>Trapped...
>It was never explained why the Legion was trusted with so marely duties since all of them seemed to have, at minimum, two hideously and usually hilariously inept aptitudes.

"Why wouldn't I?! You're my favorite after all!"
>Tossing the rope out the front door and shifting her weight sideways to let you on more easily, the air freezes in a small radius as she inhales deeply.
>Reasonably cold AND comfy now, dame Amethyst raises her left forehoof to click against your left hoof, snickering quietly as she short-canters out the den door.
"Of course, Little Bug!"
>Nickering towards Umakachov, ears flick in challenge as his scarab helmet turns, standing up from the awkward sitting position.
>Slightly miffed, unscathed biologically, and distinctly hoping the pegasi was done.

>Swatting the mostly physical, off duty Legion ponies from what she deemed her airspace, their echoing cackles and snide half-words were quite pointed as Lilamaredre's instant to rise, fast to end frustration inevitably ceases.
>Hooves, wings, claws, and manes tossed in triumphant measures, each regards her landing on the street with the utmost glee.
>...they hadn't even placed physical bets!
"You took not only the bait, but the sinker, line, and pole."
>Helmet shaking in disappointment, though you easily caught the poorly hidden snort after the last word, your sire's right gauntlet raises towards the house, the motion bends subreality several fractions.
>Fully dragging the rope and pair of sleds to him without moving, then grasping it tightly, the left gauntlet raises to tap his right shoulder pauldron.
>Blinking in surprise at the unspoken offer, Lila cranes her head to give both forehooves a puzzled glance, then back up with several rapid, burning nods.
>..she wasn't going to recover those flames, or was she?
>Crouching down, rear wiggling once, twice, three times, she leaps straight at the prototype armored back, smashing into it and clinging tightly, front legs over the front.
>NOPE, completely forgotten.

>Ringing hooves clopping out into the 0th Ring's wide, not perfectly (circa King Tachell's fall) circular thoroughfare around the topmost Ring, dame Amethyst halts next to her husband, turning to face the house with a merry, and marey, warm tone.
"Remember this much Amy: we built all of this to try raising you properly, but we also knew it wouldn't be enough. Once.. I forget her name, the really strange mare, knows which Gates will be closest, you'll be able to return whenever you want.
We'll also be able to start putting together some better prototypes soon, and hopefilly deliver you the first production line equivalents from the work shop, once we improve it so-"
"The Wells and tunnels are forever patient, et the medium sized chime horse is not."
>Holding her breath, even though she didn't need to, the pegasi's burning eyes travel between tensing Crystal mare and barely half-sized Scarab power armor quickly enough to create a static line.
>Rolling her ears around in a tiny amount of mareishness as she rethinks her next words.
"Nevermind, we can... discuss that later."
"As you say."
>Only a trifle annoyed at the familiar baiting tone, dame Amethyst gives up, her hooves distinctly NOT chiming as she enters a high stepping canter, angling towards the closest set of stairs leading down into the 1st Ring.
"Yet they are, how strange."
"I concur."

>Burning filly and uncaring prototype armor effortlessly pulling sleds behind, cool filly upon freezing Crystal mare skipping down three at a time into the First Ring, Sector 1, much had changed in the past few years, nothing unfamiliar now.
>A few off duty Legionaries picking through the wide, clearly marked fields of barely struggling flora, hundreds of Half-Shade sitting posts empty, and a noted lack of real work.
>Switching to a distance covering lope after the last step, Amethyst the older turns right, glancing up at the 0th Ring above shrinking into a small diorama.
"Don't know if I'll ever get used to that."
"I did! Wasn't too difficult."
"But you can fly. Doesn't that make your perception of each Ring look bizarre from above or below?"
"Nope! If you take a marshmallow and squish it out, then squish it back together, it's the same thing, right?"
"Yes."
"No."
"Indeed, it is."
>Considering your own lack of wings, it made sense, especially when it didn't.
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390576
390602 390604
>>390566
>Hearing Hodch's explanation, Pareidolia nods in approval while quietly speaking to himself.
"Good. Initial directions promising in terms of cultural management. Will place on potential list for value assessments. Need to determine their stance on the question of humans."

>Once finished attending to the rest of the lecture, he quickly files through the neatly organized branches and gives a look of approval to Shiibo's avatar.

>The operative takes the chance to finally stand and stretch while Hodch had apparently correctly intuited his line of mental questioning of Dul's nature.
"Scientific evidence would suggest perceiving intentions to be possible with the right forms of perception. Vortex born energy based beings inherently capable of this makes the theory that qualia have a materially consistent basis, a distinct likelihood."

>Feeling circulation rejuvenate his limbs, he heads back to his jumpseat and seats himself.
>Lonestar's chatter regarding particle anomalies causes him to look upward however.
(Radioactive... sustained elemental particles?)
>As Nibbles flops on top of Hodch, Pareidolia stands up while sticking his fist to the ceiling to hold himself in place.
>He looks over the sealed hatches of the vehicle while muttering.
"Operations in contamination zones were always troublesome."

>Hearing the request, he taps his helmet mounted camera while visually scrolling through to access and project the saved images of the maps in question.
"Eyes? This sounds like the aftermath of a nuclear meltdown incident."
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Commnication, Post #1/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390602
390604 390606 390621
>>390576
'All known data and interactions for the Dragonspine Mountains.'
>Bringing up a decent list of recently approved missions and operations in the Dragonspines, all except one was listed as meeting the full stipulation for each contract.
>WITHOUT pissing off the locals, unfriendly fire incidents, or causing property damage and injuries..
>The avatar's face flatlines, staggering to one side and grabbing her head, the possibly theatrical act ending by smashing into a desk off screen, then sprawling out partially in view.
>Hand raising, a curious set of notices from a trading town named Still Peak is tossed onto the internal screen, which Naliyna had sent a newly hired marecenary to, she offers a tentative estimate of, at currently known vectors, 40% compatibility ratings.
'Impossible, how could this be!? Where is this sudden competence coming from!?'
>A small note scrolls by, stating Twisted Wing had gone berserk on two Operators after a mission where two of the sapient Pred-Elk returned near-dead.
>One, Indurian, was left with dozens of concussions, the other, Bubba, had been so severely bruised that Doctor Tipper treated him with a half-dose of Ambrosia.
>That last word was changed into [REDACTED] after two seconds.

>Delivering a complete string of silverine into a bright Lunar blue gateway, one of his secure vaults which Razorback was always welcome to inspect, Hodch closes it, opening a new one, this time in red velvet, directing solely rubynine inside.
"It's a constantly revising theory, in search of diamondine answers really, among the Underground. I have been curious about the Vortex since I was nineteen. Met one of the spined flora-like beings after a delivery. It was able to, ninety-six percent of the time, accurately pinpoint the precise year an object was created, so long as no alterations were made. The other four percent had been altered.
Sirens are among the two hundred or so species favored by their Remnant. I would think they each receive additional training in order to conduct deliveries."
>Eyebrow raising at the Siren's faux-earth mare body rippling in and out of spectrums, his face creases in polite humor.
"And you obviously feel more at ease around her than the majority of ponies. No standoff behaviors, curt wording, or immediate shutdowns. You even.. apologized."

>All except for Dul's eyes vanish, squinting.
[1d6 = 6] <Language Adaption
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5] <Tallus Acclimation
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7] <Vortex Adapt: Tallus

>Running backlogs through the OT-4's rapidly collecting data streams, 'Shiibo' resets, now leaning against the desk, one hand raising palm up.
'No indications of metallurgical, biological, chemical, electromagnetic, or magical contamination, corruption, or taint, sir. Estimated time to complete new simulations: five minutes.
From current analysis they are, effectively, self-sustained elemental particles in upper to extreme living states of energetic freedom. They do not interact with particles not of their own element, only, as was stated, bouncing off. The false echoes produced are incapable of causing energetic and physical damage, lasting zero-point-zero-one seconds on average.
Without other known factors they seem to be, for lack of more data, playing with each other in their own element.
And, do you have knowledge relating to potentially similar particles, fields, or electromagnetic effects relating to confirmed Shibuya Scenario, sir?'
[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
1d6+8]
1d6+8]
1d6+8]

>Flicking the coin to Hodch, Katyal stands, grumpily returning to her crash chair, picking up the tablet and turning around.
"Worse, even without the radiation, fallout, and everything else. Exchange a gigantic one hundred and twenty rod nuclear reactor for one of every possible Elemenarental container going up at the same time.
Some regions in Saddle Arabia and Eyeraq are dead zones where no energy exists, at all. If an Elemarental, an Equestrian unicorn, or a Crystal pony walks in, they might drop dead. Others are constantly moving Elemarental maelstroms that don't end, ever. If you ever look at a current map of Saddle Arabia, they're all marked. Ioliths all over both countries usually keep them from moving, but that doesn't mean they're contained.
Best estimate is six hundred thousand ponies and forty thousand Harpies just gone in a second. Then from that river comes a bunch of Ones-Granted-Soul, big floating eyes that're both organic and inorganic like Scoriae Wyrms. We treat them like Lunars treat... well, Luna.
They've got full knowledge of damned near all events throughout the Dynasty's eras, but only speak to true Saddle Arabians unless otherwise ordered. Native Psions, completely unlike earth ponies, can rapid cast spells one after another for hours on end, complete a Grand Rite in seconds, and have no weaknesses.
And don't ever dare joke about threatening a true Saddle Arabian where one might be able to hear, they'll kill solely to avoid one of their honor-bound from getting a scratch."

*"Autopilot set. Little lady, really going to need your help here, I don't know a whole lot about land cartography and most of these programs weren't designed to function without a full satellite and buoy network."*
>Internal screens long since shut down, both return in a matte black state, 'Shiibo' directing her and the Rerculon's full resources to copying, then critically surveying each map.
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9] <R-AEHI
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication Post #2/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390604
390621
>>390576
>>390602
>Glove on the Landbarge's ceiling, there was nothing unusual felt from it, nor inside, 'Shiibo' making a quick internal systems check.
'No breaches or unusual phenomena detected.'

>Holographic bubble flickering into condensed view, Lonestar swivels around, arms folded and fingers tapping.
>Which Hodch obliges, a small crystalline box appearing in front of his snout, opening to reveal a complete stack, and floating a thin one towards the navy man whom immediately reaches for a lighter.
"Don't worry, I'll turn the fan on up here."
>Giving the Void-Flux locker a quick knuckle rap, Katyal sniffs several times, turning in surprise to eye the container in jealousy.
"Won't bother m- whoa, I know that scent. Hodch, are those real Vilgrens?"
"Yes."
"Miiiind sharing one with me?"
"Of course not, so long as you don't paint 'kick me' on my saddle again. Though these were among the last they ever sold outside the Crystal Empire, I could not in good conscience allow anypony else to purchase the final box."
"Groovy!"
>Strolling around to take a seat next to the unicorn, the Reservist snorts as Katyal takes and strikes the cigar across his horn, chortling as the tip lights up, the avatar collating information while speaking.
'Vilgren, short for the Vineland's Greenest, is a noted herd of Crystal ponies descending from the Late Conclave during the Pre-Kingdom era. Known for growing a wide assortment of exceptional, upper luxury classed Empire vegetables, fruits, berries, tubers, roots, and spices, their major claim to fame is a unique tobacco species able to grow in the Lowlands.
Exports of Vilgren cigars, among more, were halted immediately after-'
>Displaying a series of notices in Common Equestrian forbidding sale and trade of most commodities to Razorback with a number of attached pictures:
>A well known blue station wagon nearly running over three young, Imperial age Crystal mares, the chubby driver opening his door, the same driver grabbing each hefty coin purse that had been dropped, then the driver closing door and peeling out.
'THAT incident. Imperial Crystal ponies are particularly vengeful, nearly the same as common earth ponies, though far more efficient and calculating in their retaliation.'

>Sharing a few puffs with each other, Katyal lets the unicorn rest against her side as a complete map takes over both internal screens, front and back.
>Using the Falkite to point at the largest ruin, within Caneighdia territory, Hodch exhales a faintly crystalline cloud.
"That one. The Underground and Canterlot College of Magic sent out a notice of exploration when I was fifteen. Got to join solely on account of me being one of the three Lunars that responded."
>Tracing right and down some distance, approximately fifteen miles before indicating a small crossed off dot.
"Used to be a fully intact Warp Gate there. We set camp there the first night, conducted a few careful studies, before rushing to the ruin itself. Combination of City-State, Temple, and laboratory, an all in one domed megastructure. Each section was divided to working with a specific Elemarental.. all twenty-eight of them.
Miss Shiibo, is that directly in line with our current heading?"
>Text scrolls across the map's top, the avatar nodding internally.
'Within a one to two-point-three degree radius, yes.'
"Then this one-"
>Tracing right and down to a medium City-State, listed as 85% of the way between the Northeastern New Everfree and Gryphon Kingdoms boundary.
"Close to the Gryphon Kingdoms Border. Deemed too dangerous to reach without extensive support. I was hoping to have Razorback make a preliminary assessment of it, but that may not happen. That leaves-"
>Far left and down to a large Temple, approximately 300 miles northwest of Razorback Fortress, then making an X over dozens more.
"Third was under review, same as prior. It had been passed over, once by a number of Starborn pegasi, batponies, and Councilmistress Oranti. They left upon sighting an XXXL classed 'clearly moving threat' which none of them attempted to described. For reference, that classification means said threat was a minimum of a hundred to a maximum of two hundred meters, in either height or width. Anything above that is the Titanic classification.
The rest simply aren't possible."

>Passing the cigar back to Katyal, Hodch sighs outwards.
"We know where these active Elemarental particles originate from, but we would take potentially lethal risks attempting to find out what is producing them at this range. However-"
>Lifting Nibbles up once more on a dull red pillow, whom immediately reaches out to rest both front paws on his snout.
"She isn't concerned about them, and believes the 'gathered owners', for lack of a better translation, won't attempt to hinder us from reaching it."
>Flicking ashes off onto floor, Lonestar makes an odd twisting motion with his left hand, the closest screen turned to face him.
"There a name for that all in one ruin?"
"Originally it was Flightwest North Keep, a small Early Dynasty fortress. Became Osten`lia Castle two hundred years later, Panier-Gil City-State six to eight hundred afterwards, and the Fuersk-Altin lab another one hundred fifty years later.
According to the only standard journal we pulled out, the last name was Sept`Eckudel Varkest. Sept obviously means eight, though the engrammatic Dynasty languages allow for compressing entire paragraphs into a few syllables."
"So it's either completely active now, or a bunch of Elemarentals are living somewhere between us and that ruin. Lone, which ones were you able to pick up?"
>Chair swiveling around, the bubble expands once more as he reclines, tapping through a number of screens before settling on one.
"Thanks to Miss Shiibo, can confirm twenty-eight Elemental particles. That's the entire Dynasty selection. Doesn't include the six from Saddle Arabia, four in the Hegemony, and nine in the... redacted places.
Unless we run into something that we can't deal with, I'm going back to manual control."

[1d1000 = 287]
missingrollsfuckyou
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390606
>>390602
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]
[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390621
390625
>>390602
>Skimming through the reports, and noting keywords while keeping an ear on Hodch's ongoing lecture, he whispers derisively to Shiibo.
"Likely due to luck and a fluke. And a more recent, as expected human mess. Redaction noted."
(Vague recall on a knight warrior type operator. If that ended up being required for treatment, then mission outcome was dire.)

>Looking over his shoulder as he hooks his right arm into the crook of his left arm's elbow to stretch, he flatly states:
"There is no indication of major cultural contamination vectors from humans to Vortex beings. Therefore I can afford to approach them differently. They are less susceptible to social infection from humans than ponies, which are largely already compromised. And if interaction is necessary which for this operation it will be, then better it be with a human aware of the risks who can manage them."
>Dul's sudden change in appearance prompts him to glance over before realizing she was likely undergoing another round of synchronizing or adapting further to Tallus's planar rules.

>Now standing in front of his jumpseat from the previously mentioned environmental hazards, his shoulders drop slightly as Shiibo denotes the lack of risk.
"The first incident that created the Shibuya Protocol involved a class of humans capable of manipulating particles theorized to be drawn from the Dirac Sea. Those positive and anti particles were utilized to fundamentally alter reality. But there is no evidence of them here and their method of function would only apply to creatures who perceive in the same anatomical fashion as humans. Our current situation of being cut off from Command and operating independently is the criteria for the Shibuya Protocol. Other questions regarding this can be answered later."

>>390604

>Looking at Katyal, he maintains his Sticky one handed grip on the ceiling while the other holds onto his tactical vest's shoulder strap.
"Saddle Arabia sounds like a land of incredible extremes. I assume these Eyes have their own motivations of some kind since the entire land hasn't been wiped away by them. And a bond with true Saddle Arabians."

>He gives a slight affirmative nod to Shiibo's display as Lonestar requests her assistance in navigation.

>Seeing Hodch withdraw cigars, Pareidolia makes a short sigh before furrowing his brow. Seeing a notably unpleasant picture, he squeezes his vest with his free hand.
"Kraut. Will likely need him alive to answer for this. Hope that can be done before the Imperials decide to call their debts."

>He continues to listen, though his understanding is incomplete given the large amount of history and context there was not enough time to provide.
>Thinking back to the prior mention of an "XXXL clearly moving threat", he manifests his yet unnamed weapon in his right hand and looks it over.
(Need to rectify that design flaw when possible. Maybe be able to redirect that functionality somehow. For threats of that size, this needs even more flexibility in firepower magnitude.)
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390625
390633
>>390621
>Unable to find more from the Fortress' data, 'Shiibo' offers a sincere frown, appending, footnoting, and clarifying numerous prior reports of yours.
'No more information available. I am however correcting a number of misconceptions on General Twisted Wing, real name: Sapphire Kiwi. Based on the ruthless treatments doled out to a number of humans in the past, her outward actions are well ingrained behavioral cover patterns.
The redaction is solely from how rare and valuable a specific pink substance is. Bubba was noted to have recovered quickly and well, without ill effects.'

>Clearing the rubynine and switching to sapphirine and diamondine, delivering them into another, bright green tinged gateway, Hodch's tone was faintly impressed.
"If you weren't human, I would absolutely swear you to be Kra`ken. Pure logic is all they have, and nothing else. And if a certain pair of idiots on the Citadel had not been drinking themselves stupid, you likely would have met Chuz`Ain, the Kra`ken Overlord and Emissary. A remarkably tactful individual for his species, he is perhaps the closest to humans in behavior.. though their connection to quantum state organic technologies causes them to think in sometimes bizarre logarithmic patterns."

'Then nothing useful, similar, or related. Understood sir.
Significant progress has been made. The Reculon system has eight pseudo-operational personalities, of simple forms, with one specifically related to oceanic world based data, regarding five thousand plus years of highly active radiation exposure. Particles, interactions with magnetic fields, biological, chemical, metallurgic exposure, and far more. Exceptional value for cross-referencing.
I cannot confirm a complete lack of danger, however the probability of direct physical contamination is 9.2%; esoteric corruption or taint is 5.6%; mental contamination is 0.1%. The first two are swiftly decreasing.'

>Picking the tablet up for a quick inspection, Katyal reaches for her jacket, unfolding a large lower pocket to pull out a giant Asian hornet.. which wasn't alive.
"It is, and they do. I might be able to join Saddle Arabian herds but it's painful, the last remaining ones ones aren't doing good. With the Nags it's like putting on a pair of soft, cool silk gloves though, and Neighsians are so damned open it's hard not to join their Overherds. Love visiting them too, their food's amazing.
Eyes are just... unknown. They're supreme Psions and casters with complete tolerance of, and alignments to, the native Elemarents. They don't experience burnout, are basically inexhaustible, and have complete records of everything the Dynasty did in Saddle Arabia. Least until the Burning Bridge happened. Went against a new one in an honor-test, lasted less than four seconds.
My own not-working-so-well theory is that they were created from all those Cores going boom at once, which became some type of twisted omni-Elemarental gestalt, then untwisted itself upon learning everything the souls of several hundred thousand ponies and Harpies knew.
They're so obsessed with correcting Dynasty mistakes that the free ones will do almost anything: using intact Cores, creating temporary or artificial ones, beckoning huge Elemarentals, calling on Old Ones, or those Unspoken weirdos, demanding Remnants to absorb their own Planar essences, among others.
Saw a giant horse once, basically a regional avatar of Void. Didn't like that one. At ALL."

>Eyebrows raising and held for zero-point-nine seconds, the avatar's tone becomes droll.
'That will be difficult as his current condition is, quote: 'minced human in stasis', end quote.
There are forty simple options which will ease tensions with the majority of Imperial groupings, fifteen marginal, nine difficult, and one expensive. Correction: highly expensive.... and thoroughly distasteful.'

>Closing the gateways with a supremely satisfied huff, Hodch's head turns enough to eyeball the stacks of bars, rounds, and others, puffing lightly on the cigar.
"Hmmmm. Damn. Those are all low, middle, and high class alloys from the Middle Dynasty. Was hoping for the more useful composites, but Amerose can sort them later."
>Making a wide sweeping motion, the gateway expands, engulfing the materials swiftly before closing, though Nibbles leaps straight up into, and through the ceiling.
"Guess she didn't like that one."
>Pushing around to face the rear doors, his right ear swivels at you, leaning backwards as the black kanpri anvil drops in front of him.
"Pare, your weapon please. And, just so I can tinker with a few variables, what would your preferred weapon, or weapons, be? I believe I heard something about a halberd. Give me full specifications and I should be able to create a conjoined Tallus and Planar Lightning version.
And unlike a certain pony's works, it will NOT become sentient nor sapient. "

>Tossing the hornet up, the wings buzz as it takes on a stationary position, spinning in circles as the woman begins poking the tablet screen, looking up after a few seconds.
"Ey, that thing feels weird, like an earth pony throwing Gravity around. Nifty looking though. Kinda wish I brought my launcher but it's a little unstable at the best of times. Fusion, particle, plasma, or other?"

>Both internal screens switch to normal in a forward and rearward viewing mode, now little more than scattered, slightly smaller megatrees being passed by at marginally dangerously speed.
*"Passed a fifty foot green bear or something real similar a few seconds back, kind of... not running, more like sliding on air, going straight northwest. Anyone feel it?"*
"Nope."
"Not at all."
*"Huh. Guess the environmental sealing's real good then."*

[1d100 = 22] <Intensity
[1d100 = 69] <Range
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.390630
390655
>>390575
>Amy sat up on her dam's back and rubbed her cheek against the stick, fingers and puppet pressing at points along its length, Amy settled the excited energies in her Stick.
>Gifts from the above world, that was a good idea, her dam and sire might like that.
>Though Amy was loathe to surrender gifts under the best of circumstances, she could always part with some in exchange for others.
>She sounded merry hums at the thought.

>Ears wiggling with amusement, Amy returned her stick to its place upon her back, just next to the chewed sword, though sticking in place of its own accord rather than requiring a sheath as the blade did.
>Gazing up once again at Lilamaredre having rightfully taken the bait, for what better pastime was there than to scuffle, she watched, judged her landing, and snickered at her lack of hesitation in perching on her father's shoulder.
>She settled down, attentive to her dam's words, but most importantly the emotions conveyed through her subtones, as the more important meaning.
>Amethyst the younger could return whenever she wanted, perhaps not to live, yet welcome all the same, bittersweet.
"I understand."
>In that simple affirmation were the tones carrying yet more meaning and gratitude. What was provided had always been enough for her. Truly the best and cherished.
>She gasped, mostly with faux insult, at her sire's light provocation.
>He could easily have been referring to either Amethyst the elder or Amethyst the younger.
>Though her dam's impressed emphasis indicated that another scuffle would be had over precisely what had been meant.
>Amy was not impatient, just... Eager for the future to arrive.
>Not impatient!

>The ipotane turned as much as she was able and followed her dam's gaze with an inclined head.
>She'd never found the way space worked to be unusual, though of the four of them, she was the only one who had never known anything different.
>It was simply the norm. Why wouldn't space stretch and fold itself away from marginally distant observers?
>She wondered if the world above would appear as unusual to her visually and idly remarked on it.
"I wonder if the sky will stretch like this."
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390633
390634 390658
>>390625
>He mentally files that information away, hopefully to never be heard uttered by anyone else.
"Noted."
(Calling her Sapphire Kiwi would result in swift, permanent injury.)

>Hodch's comment brings a pensive look to Pareidolia's face, hidden behind his helmet.
(Kra'ken... Overlord and Emissary Chuz'Ain? He was in the Citadel Armory then and had said 'While it is interesting to see a Siren-touched still live...')
>That questioning line of thought remained simmering as he listens to Shiibo's report.
"Understood."

>Eyeing the hornet warily, he pushes away the brief instinctual wave of revulsion at seeing such a large specimen of insect.
>He disengages his Sticky enchantment, deciding to sit back down in his jumpseat as he nods at Katyal.
"Would be ideal to avoid encountering one during this operation then. Any entity that we cannot safely say 'No' to in reasoning would be too great a risk."

>Pursing his lips behind his helmet, he exhales through them sharply before speaking to Shiibo.
"And he should be the one to clean up his own mess. Especially a human cultural incident. But I'll consider options later if he remains indisposed."

>Hearing the thud of Hodch's anvil, he reaches up and unsticks his Gozkan blade from his back. Proferring it upwards for the unicorn to magically carry over.
"Give me a minute to consider my options."

>He glances towards Katyal.
"Particle. It can direct a graviton based on my mental commands."

>Falling silent, he rubs his chin for some time before answering Hodch's offer by sifting through saved images and compositing a weapon out of various other existing polearms before projecting them via his helmet camera.
"Considering this. Overall length of 7 feet. Extending the crossguard slightly to match the profile of a sword spear. Debating whether to incorporate small squared points to the ends of the guards for hammer heads/blunt points to have a usable armor-cracking function. The butt of the polearm being a dragon's claw shape, either opened or closed. But I am not experienced in melee weapon design principles with Tallus materials."
>He pauses for a moment.
"... And regarding that Kra'ken. I think I did encounter him while defending the Citadel from Construct intrusion. I had to retrieve my equipment from the Armory which he was in. He had said it was rare to see a living Siren-touched... do you know why that would be?"
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390634
shovel example.jpg
>>390633
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390641
390662
>>371093 →
>Ponies are fucking weird.
>Why can't they be more human-like.
>Bubba would only spare the two a brief, bemused glance, before focusing back to Stream Lark.

"Shovels wouldn't help our case at this point, and I damn well know it."
>He sighed, shaking his head a bit.
"I wouldn't know. The last I've seen of them, they were both alive. Went out on some mission that I should have checked on, so I wouldn't know their chances of surviving that."
>Bubba completely understood the glyph's reaction to the names.
>He at least didn't think disfavorably of Kraut.
>Just thought he was a goober.
>He turned his head towards the Councillerge, returning the gesture by shaking his hoof.
"Both, if preferable. One can't be too careful, especially with what's been going on."
The 1st Ring: Ground Level, Sector 53 Outskirts
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390655
390739
King Tachell, Blackwatcher.jpg
>>390630
>Dulling briefly, the Stick comprehends the order to remain subdued and not try to draw every last trace of ambient essences into itself.
>Only for you, of course.

"The skies of Tallus confused and daunted me when I first saw them."
>Comfortably moving at brisk paces, dame Amethyst's head turns to regard her husband in faint curiosity, speaking through the vox in solemn tones, left gauntlet reaching up to settle on Lilamaredre's hooves.
"Before, I was minuscule, nonexistent, the pawn of a billion pawns, rarely seeing a knight save to obey the laws and rules it issued, ones which changed without reason, logic, rationale, trust, or rhyme. I never knew what would occur save for an inevitable, dishonorable end by bolt, fist, blade, or shell delivered through ignorance. It came, of course, and not in a manner I could have suspected.
When my eyes opened to gaze upwards once more, all had changed. We beheld the Sun delivering her warm rays and the Moon amongst her children's stars in New Canterlot. They were endless. I could not comprehend their enormity, nor their beauty for a long time.
Then came the next sky. Brilliantly gleaming, shining proudly through the agonizing scars it bore. Infinite, yet more hallowed than the first two. As I explored and learned what meanings or desires could truly become, I met a mare-"
>Smile visible through crysamare plating, he nods after a moment from your dam's giggle.
"If I were to walk a beach that could never be explored within a thousand lifetimes, it was there in the Crystal Empire City-State I understood what my previous life had utterly missed: holy and unholy are only the reflections of each other."
>Helmet turning right, first to your dam, then onto you, deep impressions of patient gratitude roll outwards.
"I was terrified when we arrived here, not knowing what others would have done to us. Yet the first time I held you and your dam together, I discovered there was no such thing as a heretic. Empathy, compassion, love, yearning, what I had known the barest of and never experienced became my entire world."
>Forceful projections taking the rope, the right gauntlet reaches out to gently pat your head, fore and small finger poking both ears amusingly.
"Yet this is the world we chose, but it is not the one we promised you."
>Swerving left several steps to trot alongside Umakachov, wreathes of song shared between them, Lila gazes down at the flat crystalline path while your dam's voice chimes in assurance.
"They will. There'll no end to what you see. From the Empire Coldlands, the Rime Cluster of stars will guide you. In the Heartlands, look for the Princesses Together. In the Hegemony, seek out the Five Brothers. And when you first place hoof in the Moors, greet the Lonely Mare as kin."

>Unlike the other Rings where walking the path took a great deal of time, the 1st's unusual ten steps traveled per one made ratio was, usually, appreciated, and this time was no different.
>Well visible, the colossal Void-subsumed Dragon King slowly becomes much larger as the two filly-carriers approach the 53 signpost, one annoyed at the inability to take a scale, the other annoyed at irregular background noises.
>Slowing to a halt and stepping off the path, then between a pair of sweetroot fields, you remember this Outskirt section nearly being destroyed from Tachell's fall, creating a vast mess to remove.
>The phrase 'artificial mountain side' was often used in humored tinges given the materials that had been discovered.
>A single path had been carved upwards where the King held onto a ragged facing, silently unmoving until Umakachov and dame Amethyst pass under the enormous chin.
>Hearing rather than seeing the former Nature King's maw splitting in a grin, his voice creates gusts of wind with a hearty, agreeing second echo.
"This one has been untouched for a long time now. The rituals to awaken it are complete, except for the most important one: your lovely hoof, my dear."

>Spotting Avernus standing broadside and illuminated by a mist shrouded green Gate, it was, oddly, partly buried in blackened, though not Void-tinged pseudostone.
>The King's half-blind white eyes blink, rolling to one side, then the other at a distant, high pitched horn lasting for three seconds, turning into a flat blaring note for another two, then spiking into a rising screech for one, muttering shallowly after.
"Am I mistaken in my middle age or is that a Herald's proclamation?"
>Instantly seizing the opportunity to leap onto the first sled, Lilamaredre spins around to face the path downwards, head cocking to listen as Avernus floats the rope to her.
"That's strange, there's music.. and singing?"
"It is, but I do not recognize the second and third tones though."

>Stilled at a sequence of rapidly spiking keynotes amidst a slow chanting choir, a sweeping, lilt-carrying tune raising in harsh reverberations, followed by intense, piercing brass declarations, Umakachov and dame Amethyst snarl, then speak in tune.
"We do!"
>Throwing the rope forwards and snapping ninety degrees right in a single motion, your sire reaches out to pick you up for tight hug, whispering through the helmet this time.
"Amy, remember what I taught you: weapon or shield in one hand and staff forever in the other! And no matter which rituals you choose to attempt, find Razorback first!"

>Returning Lila's worried face with a pleasing smile of her own, dame Amethyst shakes her head, spinning around and taking a partial crouching pose."
"Give a hug to your teacher when you find her. And Amy, you'll find the Gates leading back here. Go, and only look back once!"

>Catching the rope and typing a quick double knot around her barrel, then a half-hitch on her chest, the Baroness reaches forwards, left hoof stomping as she declares in a hard, cold tone.
<Middle Dynasty Voce-Engram> "By the graces of Four Hooves, let us pass freely!"
[1d10000 = 8293] <Tartarus Tunnel Network
[1d20 = 5] <Exit Distance
[1d1000 = 839] <Pre-Modern Passage: Saddle Arabia
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390658
390660
>>390633
>Directing the hornet drone around in simple patterns, then switching to complex maneuvers, the woman's face tightens in seriousness.
"Won't be any Eyes in the New Everfree. Until a couple hundred more are freed they won't bother trying to restore this entire region. Most are too busy trying to restore Saddle Arabia and the eastern sections of Neighsia. Outside of that, chunks of Equestria, Neighvada, Gryphon Kingdoms, and Hegemony have some wandering around. They also patrol four, maybe five places in the Moors too. As for the Old Everfree, they've already been through . That place is clean so to speak, but still fucked in ways they can't explain.
You CAN tell 'em no but you better have solid reasoning to back that up. The word of a Saddle Arabian, true or Nag, is holy to them, but at best they'll listen to what I have to say... maybe I should get green man to upgrade this damn swarm a bit."
[1d6 = 1] <Choice

>Swiveling to eye a rapid series of readouts, the avatar's shoulders lift, dropping at a short negative tone.
'Without the possibility of uploading his consciousness to an android body, consolidation into a Crystalline shell, being rendered Undead, imbued as a Naghtmare, or...... other equally repulsive options, Kraut will be permanently indisposed. Which will certainly allow for excellent chances of recovering standing among the Imperial adherents.
Simulations on Empire motivations will resume once more data is acquired.'

>Tossing a thumbs up, Katyal reaches out for the drone, stuffing it away and setting her tablet down, slinging the jacket back on.
"Niiiiiice! Mine's basically a neutron 'dispenser' of sorts, looks like a grenade rifle but retarded and blocky. Some crazy pseudoscience bullshit experiment dreamed up in a ten kilometer deep lab about sixty years back come to life. That thing makes MAGIC look plain and simple. Reloading it's a real bitch too."

>Display studied until nodding, the Reservist gestures with his right forehoof, stacks of conceptual Planar Lightning spread around him, selecting through each by feel.
"That will be relatively simple to create. I will attempt to allow the head to become adjustable form as well; piercing, cutting, and blunt."
>Selecting a batch of nearly sixty pieces, he halts, entire coat and mane bristling in extreme alarm.
"That... could not have been Chuz`Ain. Or ANY Lunar aligned, allied, or visiting Kra`ken for that matter. You.. you talked to Durandal. Best known as Second Emissary of the Void, among the THREE known Emissaries.."
>Finally blinking, eyes swivel to regard with you trace horror, but mostly deeply rooted fear.
"Mortals are never allowed to see him regardless of their presumed astounding mental faculties as doing so is, in almost every instance, lethal. In the less than one percent chance an individual does survive, they are immediately dragged so far down into the deepest sections of The Black that they cannot harm others for, at minimum, one century.
If you should EVER meet him again.. do not fucking look. Durandal is effectively one-third of Tallus Void, manifested into a single individual."
>Full body shivering, the unicorn slowly turns to stare down at the anvil's unblemished surface, then sets the Panorama Blade longways for a quick up and down inspection.
>Leaning forward to take a sniff, he halts, sitting back abruptly.
"I do. Void and Vortex have never been friendly, though they share similar hatreds towards the Rift, Ethereals, and some Dominion beings. However, Citadel-born only interact with the Vortex in one of two ways: transit through translocation tunnels, or giving packages to a courier. What i-"
>Motionless for a quarter minute, he leans back further to frown, speaking in a clueless tone.
"Is this real, or am I finally losing what's left of my mind?"
>Reaching out to tap on it with the left front hoof, then the right, both splay across its length, expression twisting across confused states.
"....Pare, once I am done, would you please tell me WHERE and WHEN you acquired this Lunar Shard. It is far newer than all the ones I've seen. Luna removes exactly one thousand at a time from the Moon whenever enough Guard, Starborn, Armories, reliquaries, and Moorites request additional ones to restock or replace. The last time she did that was in 29,981, nearly two decades prior to now. This is less than... five, possibly six years old. Which doesn't make sense. Hmmmmmmm. Wonder if-"
>Poking at the Gozkan village scene ten times from different angles, his ears flatten as both hooves lift, pulling the Lunar Shard up and placing it on the blade's surface.
"No? Ahhh, the infusion process was Luna's doing. Either way, this will not take long."
>A short, hiltless Lumin blade appears, thoroughly covered in stamps of the Moon and starbursts, both front frogs are stabbed with a faint ringing tone, dissipating immediately afterwards.
>Pooling a number of blood drops on the blade itself, Hodch leans forwards, muttering in a coldly vibrating, harshly guttural language-
>One which was instantly familiar as Mercy used it quite often: archaic Minotaur.
>Seemingly of its own accord, the small black onyx ship appears, drifting in circles around the deep purple unicorn, the colors flaring off it, sacrificial blood, and nearly all light in the passenger compartment dampen, streaking around the Lunar Shard in countless swirls.
[1d6+17 = (4+17) = 21] <GM.Necromarecy: Blood For Stars
[1d6+17 = (3+17) = 20]
[1d6+17 = (2+17) = 19]
[1d6+17 = (1+17) = 18]
[1d6+16 = (5+16) = 21] <M.Enchanting, Black Anvil Imbued
[1d6+16 = (1+16) = 17]
[1d6+16 = (5+16) = 21]
[1d6+16 = (2+16) = 18]
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10] <GM.Mysticism: Change-The-Moon-Eternal
[1d6+9 = (6+9) = 15]
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10]
[1d6+9 = (4+9) = 13]

>Morbid curiosity fully taking hold at first, 'Shiibo' suspends all of her functions save for primary.
>Physically backing up in near-panicked alarm, flickers of instability registering throughout the helmet's processes.
'SIR.. is that a.. ritual known to you? I-'
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <E.Electronic Warfare: EMP Hardening
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390660
390664
>>390658
>Tapping his helmet camera, he turns off the projection while nodding at Hodch.
"Appreciated."

>His brow furrows in recollection as he is corrected on the particular Kra'ken he encountered.
(Right... Right, it was Durandal. Failed to recall his name.)
>Holding up a hand, he presses his palm down in a placating motion.
"Yes. He had advised me not to turn around at that time. I was more concerned with acquiring my gear and responding to the Construct offensive. And I don't intend on returning to the Citadel if at all possible. He must have assumed I was Citadel-born then-hm?"
>Craning his head in an attempt to see what was confusing Hodch, Pareidolia unsuccessfully tries to identify the problem from his jumpseat.
>Hodch's question prompts him to recall rather old memories.
(It must have been after the Memorial Village operation... I know it was my first purchase. Then at that time...)
>A distasteful glower crosses his face as he finally remembers where he acquired the suspiciously young Lunar Shard from. He mutters to himself.
"Of course, from Lucky. Yet more baggage to clean."

>As the lights start to flicker, his attention returns fully to the ongoing ritual. Leaning backwards only slightly, he remarks offhandedly:
"No. But Hodch wouldn't conduct any ritual that would cause harm to any of us here. This is likely partly Necromantic in nature... "
>Glancing around the compartment, he seeks to confirm his statement of assurance.
"I just hope he isn't straining himself with this blood. But this should pose no major risk to you or me."

>Once the ritual finishes, he would inform Hodch about the names of the ponies he acquired the Shard from, namely Lucky, Tacit, and Kend.
Razorback Enclave: Missed Connections 1
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390662
390766
>>390641
>Eyes closing, guilt, shame, regret, pain, fury, depression, and more marr the Councilierge's face, head dipped for some time before murmuring.
"By the alicorns, I wish that was all we needed to dig everyone and everypony out of these holes.."
>Lifting once more, he gives a short, dismayed exhale, both forehooves making plaintive motions.
"I do not know enough of Kraut's history, aside from a theft in the Empire City-State. He was only sighted three, perhaps four times in Stalliongrad, and did not cause enough damage to warrant more than a request he be confined until a Luminary is able to cleanse him.
As for Filth.. he must either be permanently banished from Equestria to a place he can harm no others, or die. The Solar corruption and taint he has spread, and the vile natures of his many destructive actions, cannot be forgiven by Solar, Lunar, or other.
Barring that, what I say next is of the utmost importance. The Empress has fallen, perhaps for the last time. There are none whom can replace her, yet that is the good news. Since she is no longer a threat, the only one which remains is Horizon."
>Hair brittle above the hoof, though still firmly meeting your hand, the Imperial mares snarl in a variety of sharp tones, his jet black coat rippling in faint disgust, which wasn't directed at you.
"Be at ease. Horizon is obviously not here, otherwise she would have struck alrady. I do not detect either a Sunglobe or sunorb here, though that does not mean one has not been carefully hidden."
>Listening to their harsh, flowing words for half a minute, Stream Lark sets his hooves back on the table with a polite nod.
"They have confirmed none are within the Enclave, though that does not rule out one or more spread across the Ferron Coast.
Bubba, I know for absolute fact that THING was able to taint a million or more ponies across this world, including Marrowgrin, Lord Sevrit, and a Greater Magma Elemarental. Before the Lunar-Solar War ended, Horizon was actively meeting with the, for lack of a better word, heretical One Sun cult. When they were wiped out, she could no longer act in the open.
The Tower Guard and... a large number of ponies met, devising options to take if she, or Silver, were to appear again in the open."
>Side eyeing the cells left and right, Lark grimaces.
"What I am about to state will not be easy to understand, nor simple to overcome.
Long before two hundred humans were to be summoned onto Tallus, myself, Shared Roses, mostly known as Sha'Ro, Linara, my daughter, the most trusted Tower Guard, and marely outsiders created hundreds of thousand of false images, recordings, and paper records, all to throw Horizon and the Empress off. I cannot state whom and what else was involved as the first has been able to corrupt, taint, and strike with sheer impunity, while the second.. the less said the better.
Some time back, Jeff, I believe the name is, was able to access the some of those held on a dedicated server. Six of the Stallionguard, which are the thirty humans whom arrived to aid Stalliongrad, maintained a constant vigil to ensure their data could not be compromised until a set of keywords was made.
When those thirty humans arrived, they were sworn into the Tower Guard, then prepared for what would potentially occur, whether that was Horizon or the Empress resurging first. It was their idea to divert the attention of both, everywhere at once, using ANY means available to them. Of the three hundred and eighty or so current Stallionguard, only nineteen remain of the originals, though their duties have been passed on.
They are not immune to Anti, though their large squad sizes and constant presence of Support Strikers prevent them from all becoming contaminated or overtaken by Horizon at the same time.
Now, admittedly it took a while until that highly specific search could be made using the Third Gestalt's technology. He is known as Anonymous, sometimes Anon, among other terms.
You certainly know a pony named Sweet Dreams. The Juggernaut is her true title, the one she gave herself. You may well know what Anti is, but not what it could, can, and must do. There is much that cannot be uncovered until the time is precisely right."
>Leaning back to circle his right forehoof on the table, Stream Lark scowls, deeply held misery being the only sensation the soul-glyph feels from him.
"Not everything you and others may have experienced in the past two years is a lie. As far as the humans of Razorback and the ponies alongside her are concerned, what they KNOW is the truth. Keep it that way to continue throwing Horizon into a death spiral of overthinking. Do not correct those falsehoods or reduce their number if you should know otherwise."

>Tremendous screeching of metal-on-energy from the far right cell are followed by a series of crackles, neither magical nor Psionic from what the glyph could tell.
"THESE SHITTY WALLS WON'T HOLD LONG ENOUGH TO MATTER!"
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21] <?????
[1d6+18 = (6+18) = 24]
[1d6+18 = (4+18) = 22]
[1d6+18 = (2+18) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <?????

".......was Skullcracker wrong about her being untainted, or did w-"
>Blinking rapidly, the older stallion's ears flatten, the Imperial unit striding to face the southwest cell in a wedge, sections of crystalline armor lifting, clusters of manabombs drifting forwards and set in a rough circle.
"No, not enough time to think. You wouldn't happen to have a one or two thousand pound bomb on hand? In the majority of her forms Horizon is highly resistant to the best weaponry and enchantmarents we have been able to create or recover, yet explosives seem to harm her rather effectively. Imperials only carry six small or two medium diamond-cased manabombs.
That is, IF 'Pear Blossom' isn't simply one of that monstrosity's Anti-twisted and modified agents."
>Easing himself off the seat to stand, the Councilierge glares coldly past you.
"Bubba, is escaping an option, or is this Enclave one without an external exit? If not, where is the safest place I can speak to Razorback openly?"

[1d100 = 27]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Storm Warning
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390664
390666
>>390660
>Rigidly holding the pose, Hodch's body begins to distort, first in geomantic, Necromantic, then utterly non-Euclidean patterns, reshaping the Lunar Shard as streaks of bright silver-blue essence, flowing together in tight red, blue, and Lumen strands.
>His voice, if it was his, becomes a rough, four-sided tenor; one irritated, the second amused, the third disgusted, and the fourth marginally exasperated.
"It is excellent you heeded his warning. And, should I live, you will accept my recommarendation to be formally given permanent Lunar access.. under extremely well armed, armored, and hostile guardship. Oranti and Ridgeback should serve as fine mistakes for the Starborn to learn from. Laxity and carelessness may be acceptable elsewhere, though not within the Citadel.
Perhaps their deaths will encourage the Burning General to awaken from the Hyfalgryph-induced reverie which has claimed her for so long. Or she may continue sleeping amongst more pleasant dreams as Enchained are wont to."

>Shifting to get comfortable, Katyal's gaze darts up at the ritual taking place, muttering in stark, flat humor.
"Fucking Mystics. Fucking Necromancers. Every single fucking time they show their real selves and I just have to be there to see it. Pare, Lone, ignore him until he's done.
And which Lucky is that? Er, Lucky Strikes is dead. The four Lucky sisters, or Lucky the Matron? ....isn't that the pegasus Isiet was telling me got thrown out o-"
>Stiffening, she immediately snatches the tablet with her right hand, left hand raising to press below her ear.
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <B.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
"Gimme a minute, I might know something about them-"

>Arms spreading out, the digital appearance of 'Shiibo' degrades into what should be a corrupted state, distorted flickers of numbers, symbols, and text now composing her avatar.
'I.. see it. And... feel it as well. These sensations are NOT similar to known forms of energy states, fields, particles, or known scenarios. Both my functions and the Rerculon's are not being hampered nor prevent, though this is.... uniquely distressing. I would not consider it painful.
At least, not yet.'

>Lifting the Panorama Blade up in a swirl of moonlight, Hodch reaches out to flick the empowered Lunar Shard into it, which is then directed back towards you.
"Why am I not surprised. Dim-witted usurpers basking upon a bed of false grief. They should have known better than trying to fool one of us.
This one is now suitably heightened in dangerous qualities to qualify as 'complete', though the Nightmare or Reaper would do considerably better than I. Now for the second."
>Interrupted by Lonestar shouting and tearing his headset off, the bubble around him collapses into a series of forward displays.
"Mother of ALL gods and goddesses, that damn noise here?!!"
"What's wrong with you now dude? We're i-"
>Chair swiveling enough to throw the right middle finger at Katyal, the navy man snarls, pointing forwards.
"Rerculon's picking up the biggest fucking power surge it can register from two-ten to two-thirty, southwest of us about twenty-five miles out! Get whatever the fuck you're doing back there done and prepare to crash in four, maybe five minutes! And Hodch, STOP trying to Ee-Em-Pee us all!"
"If I had done so, you would know instantly. Or perhaps, you would not. Quite luckily for you, I know quite well how to avoid electrically destroying, damaging, and seizing biological functions. Or to conduct the precise opposite. As it is, I will.. expedite this delicate task a small amount, though it will cause a small amount of irritation, and perhaps stiffness LATER.
Dul, please remain between spectrums. However, if you must move, I ask that you secure Pareidolia in the event of a crash."
>Eyes widening at her name being called, then expanding far more to take notice of the scene around her, the Siren's response is terrified.
"Dul.. secure for what?"
"Prevent him from being thrown around, like a package carelessly tossed into Vortex storms."
"....Dul can do.. that?"
"Thank you. Now, to commit a task I have prized little throughout my years. Perhaps my dam was right; I should have been a smith first, then researcher."

>Opening the Storm King's room to peer inside, each lightning-scarred hoof reaches in to pick up a horn ring, streaks of yellow taking over his coat, mane, tail, and horn.
>Weighing the silverine and Lunar Duelist one, twice, nodding with a serene expression, both are lifted and allowing to drop onto his horn, both forehooves clop together hollowly, then spread forwards over the anvil.
"Construction."
>The term was name, description, title, and life, flashes of the Lightning Plane giant lifting a colossal hammer take over the internal screens, black clouds covered in bright yellow fringes take shape throughout the passenger compartment.
>Bringing all of the Planar Lightning together using both hooves, the-Hodch-that-is inhales deeply, breathing out in a voice which was not heard, only felt:
I seek Those Whom Exist Before, hear my voice from each and every wellspring,
From the Plane of Lightning I call you forth, each grand aspect of the Storm King;
Grant me thy knowledge to shape this, your Lifeblood and Essence Eternal;
Hold aloft thy hammer and still it but a moment, Greatest Among The Equal;
To bind what must be be held by ally into forms only he may bear;
I savor each percussion and vibration as you fall upon the stock I hold here;
Ring in, ring on, ring upon, ring again, again, and again that which is to come;
By the Elemental Plane of Lightning, hold no furies back until your last work is done!
[1d6+17 = (2+17) = 19] <GM.Necromarecy: Blood To Lightning, Lightning As Blood
[1d6+17 = (5+17) = 22]
[1d6+17 = (4+17) = 21]
[1d6+17 = (6+17) = 23]
[1d6+16 = (1+16) = 17] <M.Enchanting, Black Anvil Imbued: Cacophony of Storms
[1d6+16 = (2+16) = 18]
[1d6+16 = (6+16) = 22]
[1d6+16 = (4+16) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17] <Grand Rite: The Endless, Tireless Work
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (5+15) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19] <GM.Casting: Conjoined Lightning
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14] <GM.Mysticism: Shape-The-Charge-Which-Must-Be
[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14]
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390666
390715 390716
>>390664
>Upon hearing Hodch's insistence of a recommendation, Parediolia sighs and shakes his head in exasperation but remains silent.
(I want as little to do with that faction beyond necessary relations for Guidance Protocol tasking. These pony cultural values-tsk. Deal with it later.)

>He grimaces slightly as the ritual continues, throwing a correction to Katyal.
"It was Lucky Strikes, that Lucky. Likely acquired the Moon Shard illegally. Her being dead is only the start of cleaning up this human-made mess."
>He then glances at Shiibo's avatar with some concern.
"It's affecting you to this degree? Don't force yourself if it becomes a problem. Shut down if you need to, if it comes to it. This is a new variable for me, so I can't promise accurate assesments."

>Grim news of a complication delievered by Lonestar causes Pareidolia to stand immediately.
[YouTube] XI [Embed]

(Great. Heavy impact in estimated 4 minutes. Secure equipment. Brace.)
"Shiibo, that power surge may overwhelm any EMP hardening we have. Finish what you need to and prep for shut down."
>Rushing towards his locker, he begins retrieving his pack and assorted gear. As he Stickies it to his legs, he notes Dul taking in her surroundings with apparent fearful disorientation.
>Moving past her to resecure himself in the jump seat, he says:
"Hodch is performing a ritual to make one of my weapons stronger, using some of his own blood. You don't need to worry about that. Right now-"
>There is a pause as he straps himself in and reSticks his pack to his legs.
>A twinge of discomfort crosses his face as Hodch's increasingly unsettling mysticism rises over the compartment. Speaking over the loud "thoughts" of the Lighting Construction, he continues:
"-focus on bracing for a big... boom of some kind. In less than 4 minutes, we will be impacted by a major blast wave that may damage this transport. I can use my Sticky enchantment, and should likely be safe. You should be ready to hold on to avoid being thrown around."

(Of course there had to be something. Even here. Really wish Command oversight was here to redress contingencies.)
Natilda
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390711
390717
>>390342
"People would say you're not making sense."
>I do understand the idea, at least.
"You underestimate the human ability to complain or tell someone something despite fully knowing that it is out of their hands."
>I give her an even stare.
"Ponies are weird, Wild. Someone will undoubtedly want to date you, I am certain."
>And I'll smack them for trying.
>With a stick or something.

>I just give her another look at that, before digging out a rag to hold over my mouth and nose.
>I do not like this foul stench.

>Watching her... adjust, I sure was glad I didn't have the technological know-how to know just how impossible what she was doing should be.
>I gaze into the abyss and don't acknowledge it gazing back.

"I'd say I can only imagine, but I don't think hard enough for something to that degree."
>As she resumes repairing, I stretch my legs, walking around a bit and keeping from breaking down myself.
>This is one fuck of a situation.
Taking A Lead: Breakdown, Post #1/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390715
390716 390758
>>390666
>Poking the screen once, Katyal lifts her tablet, showing a highly toned, mid-40's pegasus stallion sneering in broadside flight, a full set of mostly clear, long wingblades on the visible feathers.
"Nope, wrong name. This is Lucky Strikes, sire of the five Lucky sisters in Las Pegasus, to five different dams no less. Killed about fifteen years ago when somepony popped a Rift gate open in the middle of Las Pegasus. Wasn't a Construct that got him though.
Real piece of work; killed and looted through reliquaries, armories, museums, graveyards, barracks, you name it, all over Mainland Equestria, Moors, Hegemony, Neighsia, Saddle Arabia, Gryphon Kingdoms, middle to big cloud-cities. Even slipped into the Dragonspines and a few places in the Crystal Empire. Worst part is he was never caught, but his five hundred or so crew are mostly dead now.
Bastard's record makes Hodch look normal-"
>Bombastic, OFFENDED criminal side eye.
"How does relatively normal for a LUNAR sound? Eh, Matron Lucky's the one that got executed in the Crystal Empire a while back. Sold ultra rare pieces, lost or missing holy relics, among other stuff nopony knew how to get for whack prices. Also there was something about a bunch of fake salt but we didn't get involved with that. Her sisters disappeared a while ago and nopony's got a single clue where they went.
Really fucking bizarre no one and nopony ever learned their first names. Isiet had no clue either, weirdo little lesbo horse.."

>'Shiibo' waves a discombobulated hand in front of her face, the digital parameters separating in puzzling manners.
'Yes. EMP hardening is providing marginal operation. Uplink, site-to-site, and wifi connection impossible. Saving files and backing up prior tasks.. complete, shutting down now.'
>Possibly bowing, the avatar's voice hitches in a demure, slightly spicy tone before the helmet's internal screen blanks out.
'Turn me on when you need my services, sir~'

>Eyes following you around, the Siren's body reappears, physically a bit more substantial as you sit down, sniffing towards the magical phenomena before tilting her head.
"Oh. Dul was looking inside Dul. This not bad. Dul think really bad thing happen. This.. better? Weird better? Better weird?'
>Lifting both front legs up to grasp a cloud, faux-hooves touch briefly, pushing it towards the Black Ark with a giggle, then extends each set of claws down into the floor.
'Dul ready!'

>Throwing everything of hers into the standing locker that wouldn't break, Katyal opts to leave her kit bag in it.
>Deciding between holding a bag of bottles or explosives, both are chosen, setting the first across her chest before sitting down, placing the second under her legs and wrenching the straps over her tightly.
>Gripping her tablet and squishing the alchemy bag into her chest, her eyes roll.
"Been in three crashes and only one was my fault. Does this one count?"
"No-"
"Yes-"
"I know where you live, Hodch."
"So do I."

>Setting the blade in your lap, Hodch sits back, eyes shutting tightly as he yawns.
"Ugh... that will never stop being irritating. Lonestar, is the Mess Hall foyer large enough to admit the OT-4?"
"Little busy here trying to find something we can hide behind, in, or under!"
"Answer the question, please."
"Yeah, probably! Why?"
"Merely a theoretical emergency wormhole connection to where I left a series of runes engraved with my Cutie Mark under the floorboards in the center of said foyer."
"...what?"
"Precisely."
>Reaching into a floating purple cabinet, which wasn't there before, Hodch digs around for several seconds, returning with a small Lumin plate, though a large piece of reflective black chitin scale falls out, as does a host of pegasi feathers in every color.
"I don't necessarily want to use this, but in the event of an armor breach or severe damage it.. ssssshould work. Technically doesn't have a weight limit, but we've only used them to transport boats, structures, fortifications, buildings, and the like. When they aren't moving that is."
"Please tell me that doesn't involve getting thrown around-"
"Prrrrrobably."
"That's not a yes!"
"It's the best I can tell you. ...these aren't ones I've collected. Who, what, and why?"
>Tossing the plate upwards to stick on ceiling above him, Hodch blinks at the pile several times, sniffing once, then floats it back inside the cabinet, doors shutting and vanishing.
"Of course.. thank you, Nibbles, for all the extra clutter.."
>Eyeing the decidedly incomplete weapon with a sigh, Hodch MUCH more calmly, and without ceremony, begins kneading the weapon into existence.
[1d6+19 = (3+19) = 22] <GM.Necromarecy: Blood To Lightning, Lightning As Blood
[1d6+19 = (3+19) = 22]
[1d6+19 = (2+19) = 21]
[1d6+19 = (3+19) = 22]
[1d6+16 = (3+16) = 19] <M.Enchanting, Black Anvil Imbued: Stormcover
[1d6+16 = (3+16) = 19]
[1d6+16 = (6+16) = 22]
[1d6+16 = (1+16) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18] <GM.Casting: Conjoined Lightning
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <GM.Mysticism: Shape-The-Charge-Which-Must-Be
[1d6+9 = (4+9) = 13]
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
[1d6+9 = (4+9) = 13]
Taking A Lead; Breakdown, Post #2/2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390716
390758
>>390666
>>390715
>The right screen flickers on, exposing a spartan, darkly lit interview room.
>Angle pointing straight down next to a recessed lamp, the image of mid-60's male arm holding a long cigarette over a white ceramic ashtray, weathered arm propped on a new steel table.
>A young, fairly charismatic woman's voice speaks, slim hands spreading a series of mathematical covered pages out before the man.
"Your proposal has been exhaustively considered. Each calculation has been run through the best software, heuristic machine learning algorithms, and logarithmic programs available to us. It is, quote, marginally flawed, end quote."
"So, not a success then. Is my concept or the math at fault?"
>The male's voice was rough, tired; a lifelong smoker, though surprisingly sharp and quick.
"No, to both. At least, not in the ways we thought it was a failure at first. Large scale energy waveform manipulation of the intended magnitudes are, with our current and projected technological limitations within the next five years, impossible.
That is until we stumbled across a mutant quirk of variable quantum foam selection."
"Quantum what now?"
"That explanation would take hours. Here, let me show you precisely what the result looks like. Stand up, then look above the paper itself."
>A large sheet of paper moves into view of the recording, covered in familiar esoteric symbols and condensed terminology.
"My.. my head hurts, why? What is this? I didn't draw any of this, whe-"
>Chair scraping backwards, then once more as a panicked step is taken.
"The fu-"
"Calm down! Relax. That is a perfectly normal reaction! Look at the hand writing. Yes, that's it. You see it now? The whole lab did too.. at least those that didn't pass out or begin bleeding from their nostrils and ears. Do you understand the ramifications of what you discovered?"
>Sitting down heavily after five seconds, the older man sighs, ash being flicked onto floor.
"....fuck me. It's a wave motion cannon, isn't it? Just.. condensed down for an individual's use. ......my daughter loves old anime. Watched a lot of it with her before she moved away. Became a nurse."
"I understand, so does my cousin. With the proper knowledge, this could be taught to a-"
"Sufficiently trustworthy and loyal human being with sufficient inherent energetic control. I get the point. Is this why I'm being interviewed behind six inch thick one-way glass in every direction?"
"No, w-"
"Look, I drove six hours to get here, waited an hour before that bitch bothered to check something, spent another in decontamination bullshit, half an hour being poked and prodded in the dumbest looking medical lab possible, then sat here for another hour before you strolled in! Tell me what I'm doing here and why before I decide punching you is the fastest way to get out of here and go find somewhere to eat lunch!"
"....one of the facility coordinators believes you may be the perfect candidate to teach this method, to others, in the event of a relatively peaceful First Contact."
"Why didn't you say that when I asked?! I've be- ....what?"
"Here."
"What's this?"
>Sliding a small credit card into view, the woman's hand turns palm up.
"A black card. Credit and debit only. Untraceable, except by our organization. We may only make deposits, not withdrawals. Initial personal funding of five million. Later funds will not be unlimited, though should be sufficient to, hopefully, prevent you fro-"
"Betrayal is a low priority unless your organization pisses with my family, my dog, my friends, and my colleagues. What's this about First Contact, and do I have to sign an En-Dee-Ay?"
"I can assure you our organization does NOT target family members, I will show you in a minute, and that will be necessary, yes. Before you sign your name, please turn around and observe the white taped mirror."
".....are they rea-"
"Yes. They do not know we are observing them, and we are still unsure how. For each action there should be an equal and opposite reaction, but so far there are no indications of a single individual realizing they are being watched. Unless this type of event is so commonplace they do not consider it an anomaly."
"Then.... there's been no First Contact yet?"
"Correct. We were.. hoping you would select an individual to do that for us."
"......before I sign this, I've got three conditions. One: what I say gets done. No bullshit, no fuckups, no calling in sick if you aren't, no if's, no but's. How, when, why, and where, my word is absolute law."
"...they agree."
"Two: no details of this to anyone except you, the people listening, watching, or both, me, and whicever outside whichever lab techs, researchers, and science flunkies get brought in. I want to know who ate what six years ago, how they tie their shoes, and the exact number of pornographic files they've downloaded in their entire lives."
"They agree."
"Three: WHEN this technology is out of experimental stages and becomes available, my daughter gets the first production line version of each. Anonymously, of course."
"Each? I don-"
"Variable close combat weapon, pistol, rifle, shotgun, and launcher."
"How do you expect t-"
"Because I understand how to configure it into specific forms. Can't you?"
"............no, I cannot. And they agree, with one condition of their own."
"What is it?"
"The organization, through numerous cutouts, shall retain full rights to sell a line of... WHAT!?"
"Out with it."
"Er... ...stuffed.. toys. Of which you will receive a flat twenty percent royalty on."
"Done. Now take me to the closest lunch room and explain why your lab idiots were experimenting with molecular motion waves instead of my design-"
>The recording ends.
Lost in the Crag Moors: STILL Stuck (In The Middle Of You)
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390717
390754
>>390711
"I can make sense of what the other me cannot. Or myself. I, me, my, self, mine, and the others.. all twenty of them. Excluding the inside idiot."
I HEARD THAT.
"Did you?"
....no.
"Good. Now find the five least dangerous routes towards nearest large translocation matrices or Warp Gates."
>Inside Wild was definitely not to be trusted with non-serious tasks.
>Poking the sheet of armor covering what should biologically be her right bicep, the previous repair tendril makes a wide and sweeping circle in air.
"Consider me notified and as of yet incapable of comprehending, mom."
>Twisting around to make a side to side shaking motion, the tendril's eye is exchanged for a quartet of mechanical pincers, clicking in a harsh metallic 'tsk' tone.
>It was mocking you, though the motion seemed to be more inside Wild's style than the logical exterior version.
"Mom... stop. Do not do this right now. Please do not continue. I have approximately one-point-eight million concerns right now and that is NOT one I want to consider so long as I exist. Replacements for me now, possible travel shortly, and zero harm caused to you forever."

>Finding some relief from the nauseating scent, the prospect of filtered air becomes more appealing than ever before.
>Even if it involved learning claustrophobia.

>Something blinks in return.
>Rather, that might have been a repurposed headlight flickering, or an odd visual inspection systems for the repair tendrils twitching, but you certainly didn't.

>Pseudo-spine straightening, then shifting back and forth at the waist, then torso, the completely missing head unit makes Wild Ride look like the victim of a horribly botched transplant.
"My limited understand of physical structure agrees with you. I do not understand why my endo-skeleton is unable to be modified, attempting traversal now-"
>Lifting her left arm, swiveling the wrist in mostly human motions, extending the elbow, retracting the same, then swinging the shoulder around, only one metallic crunch and two crinkling noises are heard.
" ...I think I have JUST discovered what a cramp means, is, and feels like."
>As if she hasn't been existentially cramping throughout her entire short, mostly miserable life.
"It feels terrible. And wrong. Progress acceptable. REPLACING left internal structures and fractured armor paneling to be safe."
[1d6+14 = (4+14) = 18] <Grade 1 Auto-Repair
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+13 = (1+13) = 14] <Grade 2 Auto-Repair
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17]
[1d6+13 = (6+13) = 19]
[1d6+20 = (3+20) = 23] <Tryptaran Autorestoration
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Repair Tendril #1
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <RT-#2
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <RT-#3
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <RT-#4
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <RT-#5
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] <RT-#6
[1d6+2 = (3+2) = 5] <RT-#7
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3] <RT-#8

"No creatures capable of willingly harming you within one thousand meters, mom. I am limiting my arrays to minimum distance settings until further notice.
Update; the unrecognized, erratic signals north-northwest of our position have ceased. There is now an ultra high wavelength, wide band frequency emitting a fast repeating triple pulse once per second. Compass direction of approximately three-one-zero. Location and distance unknown at current."
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Arcanum Sensors Array: Directional Scan
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Omni-Sensor Arrays: Directional Scan
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
Ivan the STALKER
!EnJhCCu3Ns
b4a97e6
?
No.390737
390752
>>390288
>Ivan thought that this smith was cutely naive in that regard.
>He'll probably be able to teach him how to be a degenerate one day.
>Like how to hold hooves while sober, and before mareiage.

"What might those be, if I may ask?"
>Ivan would most likely not have to worry about it, but he was curious.
>After all, the usual ammo loadout for a STALKER could be measured in multiple kilos for each ammo type.
>Even Rookies quickly learned to have enough ammunition on them to account for half of what the usual STALKER could carry.

>Well that was weird.
>Ivan would shift to give him a better inspection of his armor.
>Nodding along, he let the images of such a process roll through his head.
"I'm a bit familiar with the process. My father... was a steelworker?"
>He looked to the side with a frown, his head suddenly hurting from trying to remember.

>Shaking his head, he turned back to the stallion.
"Might be a good idea, then."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
c8848c7
?
No.390739
390757
^CF3A1.png
>>390655
>Amy the younger quieted down to listen to her sire's story, it seemed such a grim and dark thing at first, but solemn expression turned to a smile, which turned to a grin as he spoke of how he met her dam.
>She would have demanded he finally explain where foals came from, but was thoroughly distracted by the head petting, her ears twitching affectionately even as she pushed her head up into the gauntleted hand.
"(´^ω^`)"

>Amethyst enjoyed watching the unusual geometry fold, stretch and compress as they moved, even though she was well used to it, there was some part of her that recognised that space was not meant to work this way.
>Though rather than being disoriented by it, she simply found it funny to look at, majestic even.
>What else was majestic was King Tachell, though not the quite serious pose he struck, but the remembered images summoned by Avernus. That was some truly majestic Kaos.
>Amy stifled a snicker, though couldn't quite replace her expression of sheer mirth with one of respect for the circumstances she was in.
>She gave up and simply let her mirth shine through in her greeting as she waved, puppeted hand stretched upwards as far as she could reach.
"Hello! Hi! Hay! >:3!"

>Casting her gaze over the Gate, she idly wondered how it had become buried like this.
>Her musing didn't last long until she too caught the sounding of the horn, head cocked and ears twitching to catch the tones, confused.
>Ears wiggle, up, down, trying to catch the noises at a better angle, though hers weren't quite as good at finding proper angles as the others.
>And that was about as much thought as she was able to put into it before finding herself lifted and hugged in an instant, sounding off in giggly shock.
"Wah!~"
>Listening to her sire's whispers, Amethyst realised that this was serious serious, and hugged back tighter, voice low.
"...I will, dad."
Clemency
!.BxecfigoM
6d0dacb
?
No.390744
390759
>>390570

>As he was about to open the door to Lann's shop, he swiftly moved to the side to not get bashed with the door
>He watches the small group head west in their search
>"They'll notify them soon enough..."
>He catches the door before it closes and walks inside the shop
>He heads straight to the back of the counter to look for the Moon Orb

>While looking through the shelves, Guillotine's voice rings through the radio
>A bit of gratification, finally he'll get some answers
*"Awesome work, wh-"*
>Clemency stops when he heard the Guillotine apologize
>Hmmm, so that small vessel can be walked into without passing out forever
>He'll make a note to see what's inside
*"It's ok, Guillotine. But a long made seat instead of a sarcophagus? Maybe to help the pilot handle maneuvers in flight? Sounds comfy right now though. Uhhh, go on."*
>Catching himself rambling from exhaustion, he stops and listens to what the Guillotine translated
>Nothing on Ninth Fleet
>Eighth Fleet recalls the ''Arena of League" to build the last of these harpy vessels on the year of 28651
>"How long ago was that?"
>The rest seems to be about these Constructed Twos, with the reference making Clemency aware of his own bonded weapon
>"Of equines whom attempted a bond towards...""
*"Is there any equines you know that successfully bonded? And does that mean, I'm the first human to bond?"*
Razorback Fortress: The Workshop
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390752
>>390737
>Easing the spear head into a functionally useful state, Krinza removes it to place on his anvil, setting both front hooves on it to give a series of bending tests, eyes narrow humorously.
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8] <M.Research
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
"Complete replacement of one's clothing for an armored weave in one's preferred style and a light full body combat suit, both from Lann of course. A medium helmet making use of a composite visor, with either an integral armored gas mask or using a flush fit detachable version, and a shield if preferred.
Six to ten magazines or equivalent number of shells primary, four magazines secondary, six light explosives, one medium explosive, a custom blade, and one of the basic field trauma kits. Less than that will not be allowed.
I had been debating the creation of a standard weapon, tool, and utility package, though I find most humans have certain preferences which are best left open for pre-mission planning. Once I locate a suitable assistant or two of at least moderate expertise, improved selections will become available, not mere enhancemarents.
There are far more than enough materials stockpiled to provide all of the prior without issue, however the major concern is time and assistance. Helping Hoof is primarily focused on alchemy and chemistry, while Aiutante will be spending however much time studying as she prefers."
>Visibly pleased at progress being made, the chunky unicorn motions at the giant coldstone above him, then taps against a sequence of barely visible barriers isolating the furnace from the surrounding air.
"An occupation which would serve better from having effective safeguards, such as these. Unlike most I do not mind high temperatures, though that is due to... I am not entirely sure what, precisely."
>Runic tools floating from behind the furnace, Krinza begins to carefully shape the head into a wide leaf blade configuration, though with a short piercing spike tip.
"The process I described looks exactly how it sounds, but to be fair Minotaurs can lift nearly double their own weight with ease; the weakest Hegemony Initiates are equivalent to the strongest earth pony.
Metalworking is not merely a trade to them, it is a skill set ingrained in the psyches of most, and the best smiths are known to create outlandishly complex designs. Which are of course tested until they break, or none can be found to cause significant lasting damage. Such pieces are among the rarest however."
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7] <M.Elemarental Chemistry
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <GM.Enchanter
[1d6+10 = (2+10) = 12]
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13]
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14] <GM.Crafter
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13] <GM.Smith
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19] <Runic Anvil
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Runic Engraving Blade
[1d6+12 = (3+12) = 15] <Runic Hammer

"Take your time. I am merely filling requests for specific Operator weapons right now."
>Placing the spear head back into the furnace and adjusting to a lower temperature for extended cooling, Krinza's focus remains fixed on it.
"Ah, and should you require crystal fiber adjustments, one of Naliyna's daughters should be arriving soon, or perhaps later tonight. Coraline Quell is her name. High strung, does not talk much, somewhat perfectionist, yet a professional Crystal Engineer nonetheless. Lann knows her well from Basin Village. She spends quite a bit of time there during the day, though I do not know why since batponies abhor sunlight and there are no traders."
Natilda
!EnJhCCu3Ns
69b8c31
?
No.390754
390760
>>390717
"I'm just glad I've only got to really make sense of what I can come up with."
>Wild was one hell of a messed up mind. Thing.
>I just point at it menacingly in reply, not bothering with vocalizing my continued poking at her over the 'dating' topic.

>I watch her shift back and forth, grimacing behind the cloth.
>Thankfully I'm not the one trying to readjust to a new skin.
"That looked, and sounded, more like a seized muscle than just a cramp."
>If she weren't eldritch I'd suggest taking a salt tablet.
"Yeah, it tends to feel wrong."

"Well aside from me, and I'm not nearly that desperate yet to consider chopping off a limb to get free of... something."
>Indomitable human spirit of survival or something.
The 1st Ring: A Confused War
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390757
390839
>>390739
>Tachell's head tips downwards, stopping far enough away not to harm eardrums, craggy snout wrinkling in a poor copy of the equine motion.
"Greetings Amy! Hail Lilamaredre! The drums of war finally approach. An excellent send off this is, even should the God-King and Emperor not be able to join us! Then again, they are most certainly tearing the Kenhals open for the coming fray!"

"Good!"
>Hugging you once more, this time not so tight, Umakachov hefts you into a decently comfy seated position on his right arm, scarab helmet emitting a soothing tone.
"Apologies, Amy. I was a too quick in thinking the hunters had found us once more. Old habits are... difficult to stop."
>Listening to the drums overtaking choir in short, harsh beats, keys and brass reverb in cold accusations, background voices blend together firmly afterwards.
>It wasn't something you'd listen to more than once, and the singers were poorly trained, at best.
“Could either of you explain the meanings? Please.”
“The opening was similar to hunting calls which followed us across Tallus, before we breached the Gate you were rebuilding that is. The Dominion Plane... rather one of their disgraced Grand Singers, is leading an outcast warclan."
>Standing up to give a half-mollified, easing smile towards Avernus, your dam's ears flick around.
"Those spiteful unliving bastards never tried listening to us once..
A section of the Dominion is seeking out Solar traitors. Accusations of sabotage, destroying gifts, slaughtering a peaceful Dominion delegation. They claim Planar Treaties were dishonored, that part isn’t clear though. Overall, they're declaring war over a Herald being killed.”
“Hm. The Shades have not spoken of such actions.”
“Oh well. I guess we'll stay here until the nearest Klave arrives. Amy, big hug time!"
>Sire kneeling down to let you off for a near spine popping, freezing double foreleg hug, your dam nickers quietly.
“Safe travels Little Bug, and have fun on Tallus for me.”

>Swiveling on hoof to half-bow at the King, right foreleg curling up to touch barrel, Avernus sing-whistles in a solemn, rolling timbre.
"Wait a few more minutes for me, my beloved, I shall ever return to you as I did once before. And, please smash a few thousand Dominion jackasses, will you?"
>Returning the bow a few dozen feet, or more, the King remains still for five seconds, maw splitting apart in a much-too-wide grin.
"As long as I live we are together and forever we remain, I shall, my wonderful Avernus!"
>Wildly rolling fractures of Void covering the King roil, shoving himself off the slope, wings and claws outstretched, the second echo cackling for him on approach towards hundreds of bright purple, gold outlined portal stones forming across the 1st Ring’s open airspace.
"You tactless idiots dare enter OUR home without bringing gifts!? I haven’t had this many opportunities for glory and honor in the sixteen thousand years I’ve been alive! While I don't think there's anywhere enough room to mount ALL of your heads, I WILL try!
Legion, drown the first wave in your numbers and pincer Orders of interest!
Legionaries, seize the outer rings, then push in to cut off Gate hijackers! Don't destroy them, please!
Shades, dive from upper Rings to rip forming Orders to shreds, and stomp on their pathetic false-songs if you can!
Half-Shades, support the Kratha in storming their commanders! Cut off enough heads and the Hydras will drown in their own blood!
Knights of Fall, force them into choke points! Make them suffer for each hoof of ground they would dare seize!
Sir Umakachov, lady Amethyst, keep that Gate open until the closest Kratha Klave can take over, and you have FULL permission to invoke the whole of Tartarus as you wish! Once relieved, join the Knights of Fall!"
[1d6+50 = (6+50) = 56] <King Tachell
[1d6+38 = (6+38) = 44] <Tartarus Legion
[1d6 = 3] <Legion Reinforcemarents
[1d6+19 = (6+19) = 25] <Tartarus Legionaries
[1d6 = 4] <Legionary Reinforcemarents
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18] <Tartarus Shades
[1d6 = 2] <Shade Reinforcemarents
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17] <Tartarus Half-Shades
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <Half-Shade Reinforcemarents
[1d6+25 = (4+25) = 29] <Kratha
[1d6 = 3] <Kratha Reinforcements
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Knights of Fall
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] <Knights of Fall Reinforcemarents
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14] <Umakachov Dalli
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17] <Rune Knight Amethyst Storm-Rose
>vs:
[1d6+44 = (5+44) = 49] <Dominion Plane Outcast First Singer
[1d6+29 = (3+29) = 32] <Dominion Plane Outcast Warclan, 1st wave
[1d6 = 4] <Outcast Warclan Reinforcements
[1d6+20 = (6+20) = 26] <Dominion Plane Songweavers, 1st Order
[1d6 = 4] <Songweaver Reinforcements
[1d6+16 = (6+16) = 22] <Dominion Plane Outcasts, 1st wave
[1d6 = 5] <Outcast Reinforcements
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19] <Gate-Takers
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14] <Dominion Potentates
[1d6 = 3] <Potentate Reinforcements
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11] <Dominion Plane Silentsong
[1d100 = 39] <Outcast Dominion Second Wareader

>Staring into the finally stabilized green tunnel atop the first sled, it takes the fiery pegasus... far too long in finally realizing the many, marely, fully blatant clues between the Baroness and King.
"Wait a minute, you two are in LOVE!? Is that why you came here and took over?"
"Indeed! And that was not the reason, no. I was furious at the hypocrisy most of my so-called kin held, thus I searched for a much calmer, forgiving place where we would not be treated as heretics.
My taking over was coincidental: the prior Lord was still aggrieved at his crimes and could no longer bear to think of various catastrophic results which might play out."
"Is that why you wouldn't let us anywhere near the big swamp on the 11th Ring?"
"No, that is one of the first Great Wells which, well, flooded. There are a host of stuck objects causing such, which I must add we have been unable to remove.
I blame the Half-Shades for it and they have done nothing save to snicker loudly, which does not disprove my assertions."
"Well.. I feel dumber than I did before."

>Taking off in a brisk walk and stepping inside the roiling tunnel, Avernus calls over her right shoulder, sleds dragging above partly physical, crunchy pseudomatter.
"Amy, take my side, left or right as you prefer. Lila, keep watch for annoyances if you would."
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <B.Scouting
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]

[1d500 = 222] <Tunnel Pests
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390758
390762
>>390715
>Nodding at Dul before closing his eyes, Pareidolia exhales deeply and slowly. The blade being set in his lap prompting no change other than an activation of his Sticky enchantment to secure it.
(Focus. Control. Unlike past in-transit interceptions, informational awareness is high. Potential threats are naturalistic. Breathe... Focus... You will ever be you. Undaunted by the flow.)
>He silently notes Hodch's mention of a contingency plan in sending the OT-4 to the Mess Hall.
(Shiibo's absence may be degrading performance of impact preparation measures. I should-)

>>390716
>His helmet's right screen feed illuminates without any prompting, displaying a scene he does not recognize.
>Eyelids fly open and a gloved hand reaches up to access the recessed control dial on his helmet.
"What- how-"
>Hovering over the switch, he regards the strange feed with thorough suspicion.
(Location unclear. Unable to determine origin. Definitely not something I saved. Individuals and organization unknown.)
>His brow furrows further at the mention of energy waveform manipulation and quantum selection, terms adjacently familiar to him.
(This must be some sort of.. strange confluence. Can't determine where or when I acquired this file. But its contents... )
>The engram covered paper comes into view and the two humans being discussion its ramifications, with assorted mentions of First Contact.
>Blinking a few times, his mind and nervous system tingle for a moment at the influx of fundamental information related to energy waves that felt suddenly familiar.
(This engrammatic design is successful in imparting knowledge. But it cannot be Committee derived. Amadeus and Salieri are far more efficient with less side effects. And this is displaying an alternate reality. First Contact protocols were already iterated in a different form than this.)
>Closing his eyes once more and having seen all he needed to see, he resettles his breathing that had been disrupted by the sudden appearance of the video.
>Quietly cataloging the remaining audio away in his mind, he finally lowers his gloved hand back down to his seat.
(Another "quirk" of Tallus, apparently.)

>Finishing his breathing exercise, he speaks over the radio.
*"Shiibo was shut down to avoid incoming EMP effects from imminent blast waves.Will you need additional support?"*
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390759
390941
>>390744
>Finding the gleaming Lumen object rather easily in the top cubby hole, it takes a few seconds for a firm hoof on stone click to occur.
>A pleasant, professional sounding mid-30's batmare speaks, calm for the most part, and not having the sharp, shrill, deafening, or screech-laden tones most did.
('Hello Lann, been waiting to hear from you again! What do you need tonight? Also we've got that box of wire sorted out in case you wanted kanpri for another project.')

>Muted hums are stifled by a long click, the Harpy's voice puzzled through the radio.
*"Known it is not. Train within aulder vessails thee Sixth Fleet an' mineself did. Allowed full touch of weaponry, lifehull, systems, memorized all save sarcophogi. Mineself recalls none long seat.
Self-interred we were 'pon ceremonies concluded, given an' granted Right of Travel tae all water an' sky of Tallus. A... as mine later kin state it, slight mistake such it was."*
>Traces of winding down energy systems in the background hold for half a minute before Guillotine speaks, now sounding more at ease.
*"Heavy numbers did so, ye grace. Afore Tallus year of: one-nine-eight-six-zero, Fourth Fleet nae record such symbiosis. When Fourth Fleet swept into Fifth Fleet.. year of one-nine-nine-six-two be first: a pony of earth bore orange armor. Communicate thee vessail did, scorn he received from mare, nae harm given by either. Fifth Fleet ordered thus: contact nae granted 'less vessail, allies, moorings harmed. Monitor an' nae engage all Fleets were tasked.
From Tallus year of: two-zero-zero-zero-zero, to year of current, records declare fifty thousand in number known, estimate mayhaps ten thousand more. Ninth Fleet recorded little, translation tae new world they did.
Mine own logs declare one-hundred ninety-six; bat, wing, crystal, horn, earth. Little hostile they be, desire peace afrom kin they do.
Mineself knowest not, ye grace. Be it at ease, speak tae ye?"*

>Partially in view around the processing monolith system, Stellar Claws was walking around it, surveying the screens in vague interest.
>Stopping to check one of the expanded hardcases, she leans down-
[1d6 = 3]
Lost in the Crag Moors: STILL Stuck (In The Middle Of You)
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390760
391022
>>390754
"Fine."
>You didn't have to directly see the tendril dancing side to side to know Wild was refusing to comprehend.

>Starting from the left hand, ripples across greatly changed armor travel to the forearm, upper arm, then shoulder, plating twisting, and finally twitching into a semblance of normal.
"I do not care what occurred, this was HIGHLY distracting. I felt like punching the improperly divided mass should solve the problem, but it is inaccessible now."
>While you couldn't quite sense the screen all three of them previously reading out PAIN, it ALL. THREE. wouldn't be too difficult to find.
>Flexing out the arm entirely, nothing moves that shouldn't.. if her structure was specifically based on human biological mechanics.
"Damage sustained was near total, less than four percent integrity remained. I will worry about the lack of Tryptaran mass later."
>All eight repair systems swivel to face you, swap their current tools for a single red glowing lens in each.
"If you are experiencing motive difficulties, your skeleton can be replaced if necessary or desired, mom."
>Suggestion?
>Threat?
>Offer?
>Recommendation?
>Sanity?
>All and yet none of the above!
"Range to pulses unknown, speculated greater than five hundred miles. Significant signal degradation, unlikely to pose a threat. Contributing factors: distant flora, clouds, water. There are three large scale Elemental echoes in vicinity, currently inactive.
Maintaining close range threat detection."
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <Arcanum Sensors Array
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <Omni-Sensor Arrays
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]

>Swapping to a bizarre pair of slender prongs with a needle, six of the repair tendrils delicately pick up sheets of steel, two surveying what remained of Wild's head.
"This may not be a good time, but I must regain access to primary data nodes. REPLACING the lower cockpit module now-"
[1d6+14 = (5+14) = 19] <Grade 1 Auto-Repair
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19]
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17] <Grade 2 Auto-Repair
[1d6+13 = (1+13) = 14]
[1d6+13 = (1+13) = 14]
[1d6+20 = (1+20) = 21] <Tryptaran Autorestoration
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <Repair Tendril #1
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <RT-#2
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <RT-#3
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <RT-#4
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7] <RT-#5
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <RT-#6
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] <RT-#7
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5] <RT-#8
Taking A Lead: Breakdown 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390762
390763
>>390758
>Spinning around and slamming the front cabin door open to lock, Lonestar hammers into the chair's controls, hologram bubble forming around him.
*"Everything electronic that I can't risk's been shut down, Rerculon included, and no damned clue! Either of you two in the top five percent of pilots or drivers? If so take over from me because THAT SHIT-"*
>Screens blinking on from their inactive state, a view from the Landbarge's upper left rear through gigatrees at a significant angle shows a miles high line of crystallized foam visible through canopy.
>Night begins turning into Day, pinpricks, speckles, and smears of fluctuating colors roll chaotically around trees, sections rapidly contracting and expanding outwards.
>Bursts of faux-clouds form, what might have been pseudopods drifting outwards, but seeming lasting just long enough to drag the entire mass-
>Mostly towards the OT-4's direction.
*"Ain't something my ocean world and navy trained brain is comprehending! Hodch, WHAT is it?!"*
>Staring directly into the forward screen, Katyal's everything was definitely unsettled.
"Can drive most military vehicles with eight wheels. Or pilot quad-leg suits. Didn't use hover systems though. Too.. unstable. Like that. Only that's a whole lot worse. It's making me really wish I didn't have that yummy rainbow fruitcake Folu made."
>Eyes swiveling left to eye the scene, then forwards, pure, visceral horror, moderate terror, a small amount of rage, fringes of awe, and twitches of insanity cross the unicorn's face, ears flicking spastically in great distress.
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <M.Fearless
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]

"....I have NO idea and quite frankly I do not EVER WANT TO! Nibbles, get down here!"
>Snagging the feline in a bright red pillow right as she drops through, his tone shifts to lethal for a moment before delivering the Hero(ine) of the Moors to Dul.
"Do as I say or you may not live long enough to regret otherwise.
Dul, change of plans: hold onto Nibbles as best as you can, and spectrum shift completely out of Tallus the second I say the words: get out!"
>Peering down at the bat winged feline immediately scrambling in air to move in any direction possible, it doesn't work; the Siren easily scoops Nibbles into her front claws, fading until only her outline shows.
'Dul keep wiggly Melari safe.'

"Even if that damned plate works I don't have the ten minutes needed to calculate the number of degrees it can be off by at this distance! We could wind up hundreds of feet in every possible direction, possibly thousands-"
>Left forehoof thrown outwards, the central under-chair lockers are opened to dump Elemental steels inside, muttering a long series of swears, fortunately none in Common, the door slams shut.
"Lonestar, drop the rear passenger hatch two hooves."
*"Done, two fucking minutes left and punching up hard as I can!"*

> [YouTube] Drivin' Crazy (Extended Version) [Embed]

[1d6+20 = (5+20) = 25] <Maximum Speed
[1d6+20 = (1+20) = 21]
[1d6+20 = (3+20) = 23]
[1d6+20 = (1+20) = 21]

>Hopping onto the rear passenger chair and turning it to face the partly opened, whistling hatch door, Hodch glances down at the straps, grunts, then lifts his head high, voice cracking as he barely keeps his figurative self together.
"Testing the COMPLETELY UNKNOWN with a STUPID hypothetical when NONSENSE OCCURS, AS PER USUAL!"
>Silverine blade appearing, it spears into the back of his neck, drags down to the withers, spinning around once to vanish as several lines of bright red pool into a sphere, and are hurled outside as he motions, a bolt of force slamming the CLOSE button.
"An act which typically promises to suck in CAPITAL letters! ...oh fuck off Discord, now isn't the time!"
[1d6 = 5] <GM.Mysticism: I-Greet-What-You-Are
[1d6 = 1]
[1d6 = 2]
[1d6 = 2]
>vs:
[1d100 = 41] <Reaction
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390763
390768
>>390762
>Rising from his jumpseat as the viewscreens present a crystalline mass rushing forwards with false day light, Pareidolia hurriedly tosses his pack into the closest locker.
(Some sort of activated superweapon. Fallout from megafauna clashing. Need to move or die.)
>He unsticks the Panorama Blade from his legs and removes a glove, carefully pricking his palm enough to feel the sensation of pain before stashing it into the locker as well and slipping his glove back on.
*"Moving to the pilot's seat."*
>Time flows more slowly and clarity settles over Pareidolia's vision as his pain response triggers. The chaotic din of hasty half measures becomes merely acknowledged background noise as he makes his way to the pilot's seat.

"Hovercraft training. Will attempt to maneuver."
(Handling should be similar to primary transports.)

>Quickening his breathing pace slightly, he grips the set of control sticks as he takes in what information is available.
(Focus. Process. Failure is not an option.)

[1d6+20 = (5+20) = 25] <Expert Driving + Maximum Speed
[1d6+20 = (6+20) = 26]
[1d6+20 = (4+20) = 24]
[1d6+20 = (4+20) = 24] <M. Failure is Not Advised
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <Adept Human Antigravity Craft
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
b4a97e6
?
No.390766
390772
>>390662
"Kraut can be redeemed. Filth, I have no qualms with being erased."
>Bubba shook his head a bit, and focused on the other topics at hand. And hoof.
>A brief muscle twitch in his face, completely unknowingly, at the mention of Horizon.
"I vaguely know of it, I'll admit to not having kept up to date on certain topics."
>Bubba listened intently, taking in every word Stream Lark spoke.
>Nodding in confirmation that it was Jeff, but staying silent.
>He also shifted a bit when Lark mentioned Sweet.
"I know Sweet, yes. Not a lot about Anti, though."
>He accepted that he probably wouldn't until a certain time.
"As far as I'm concerned, the only thing that Razorback should know at the moment is that doing new contracts is off limits until we can fix some of the shit that's been going on."

>Bubba would look over at the cell, eyes narrowed a bit, as a hand rested on the holster of his pistol.
>Even if he knew it might not do much to the occupant.
"Just a pair of fragmentation grenades. I could solve more than a few problems if I was able to carry those around.

"Yes, if you would like to go to Razorback directly, you can escape to the Fortress."
Taking A Lead: Breakdown 3
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390768
390771
>>390763
>Repulsor whines underneath the Landbarge pitch down several times, screen views slowing appreciably from explicit Operator failures and errors.
"Never trained more than two for this thang ta begin with!"
>Hurriedly thumping autopilot, then the holographic screen into 360 degree bubble setting, Lonestar scrambles out of the pilot chair to take over the gunner-operator seat.
*"Then I'm gettin' outta yer way!"*

>Regaining most of his self-control, Hodch sits down, taking a deep breath and directing the octagon, pyramid, then diamondine separated silverine bells into the locker next to his chair.
>Less disgusted at the situation and dearly regretting what was currently internal but likely to soon become external, Katyal's thumbs jolt straight up at you.
[1d6 = 2] <Mindscape: Control

>Flicking controls and buckling himself in using a 5-way belt system, the former officer taps both targeting sticks, receiving a muted acknowledgement of point defense systems locking down into protected modes.
"Anything's better than the little Ah know! Sticks are Ex-Why-Zee aligned, forward left and right are slew, skew, or drift dependin' on speed, up an' down skews laterally fer targetin' th'same, double forward fer straight line!"
>Reaching over to shut down the engineering section, Lonestar grunts in frustration, angling the forward turrets hard right.
"Outrun that fucken' thang and Ah'ma MAKE you a'medal outta th'dozens a'Spectral corpses Ah've made!"
*"Your engrams are slipping back in."*
*"Ah know!"*

> [YouTube] The Fire's On Me (Extended Mix) [Embed]

>Suitably calm enough to not commit probably stupid actions, the Reservist's voice drifts through internal radio systems.
*"Not alive... guided though. Directional movement based on tracking. Tracking us too fast to understand how. Not Elemarental.. not Planar. Unknown
Heavy resonant properties, highly dissonant. Dissimilar to Crystal Runes, wide spread. Partial primary energy-state, secondary mass spectrum field in consistent functionality. Neither solid, liquid, gas, plasma, nor between. Impossible to disrupt, operating on frequencies every single Crystal pony, Changeling, and the Twin Sisters combined could not counter-harmonic.
Inherently hostile. No second chance. Only plausible option is to outdistance the leading edge until inevitable collapse."*

>Seated and taking hold of the pilot sticks, they were similar to the majority of operational controls you knew, though the variety of top side buttons and individual finger triggers implied the majority of functions and systems were rarely used.
>Or merely copied from archaic gaming joysticks.
>Running through the limited HUD as gigatrees pass by at extreme speed, an electromagnetic compass sufficed enough to aid for directional cues, and a composite 30% faded map, five travel routes plotted across a series of interconnected, archaic roads.
>Long since overgrown, what little flora still grew blurs into long strips of dull colorations, gloves tightly grip as you select a far right route leading north-northwest at a sharp angle, allowing for more lead between the larger numbers of volume decreasing white-barked trees.
>Drifting into alignment with the compass and pushing both controls hard forwards until resistance creeps up to match, two soft red WARNING indicator strips blink, curiously vertical, on both sides of the map.
>Finely tuned to considerably more restrictive and less reactive naval specifications, continued pressure beyond the safe limit causes both warnings to reach bright red, the repulsor pitch changing into a single note shrieking-scream that was only picked up from rearward monitoring systems.

>From the corner of your left eye, the leading edge was visible enough behind the OT-4 to conduct an instantaneous case study of insane gravity-bending, or possibly assisted, processes needed to sustain mass scale energy waveforms over long distances, capable of avoiding obstacles in an inconsistent traveling foam-like state.
>Tertiary notices reading steady at 284 miles per hour out of an absolute 300, each of the gigatrees was now outlined in brilliant reflective shadows to the right side, considerably brighter than any Day on Tallus you could think of.
>Touchy hundredth-degree adjustments to both piloting sticks on a near-perfect 19 degree compass angle lead straight off the ancient road and between trees, twitching the entire vehicle side to side in maintaining a completely opposite course from the leading edge, it was apparent that the mess behind was a single fraction-of-fraction faster.

>Locking down the plasma cannons into an partially EMP protected mode, Lonestar clicks several triggers, reaching up to swipe through screens until reaching a diagnostic readout.
"Gonna try an'figure out how th'shit that thang's stayin' cohesive-"
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390771
390774
>>390768
>Eyes gauging the closing distance between the unknown hostile "smart" weapon doggedly and apparently knowingly pursuing them, he holds his grip on the pilot sticks as he attempts to manage the oncoming approach path.
*"Engineered weapon. Expertise implies Dynastic? Why us?"*

>The absurd cloud's speed even while avoiding all manner of obstructions implied a level of energy that defied comprehension.
>Straining forward, he continues at speed in an attempt to buy time while flowing in a zen-esque state from the adrenaline and controlled state his body was in.
Razorback Enclave: Missed Connections 4
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390772
390791
>>390766
"Then I will demarend a Luminary from Princess Luna for his sake, even if I must do so myself and in pony."
>Nodding in a grim motion, the elder stallion's eyes harden at the Imperial Knights snapping orders at each other, the cylindrical lance tip of one in particular sparking in harsh, flaring bright blue.
"Horizon is the only threat we all now face which should bear any consideration. Her agents are mortal and have vastly lower survival probabilities. I do not care for bias, speciesism, factions, nor politics, and my regard for morality and respect are regrettably low, but I will not sacrifice more lives to fuel that monstrosity or whatever ambitions it yet has."
>Quickly tallying the number of encased manabombs arrayed in a cone shape, Stream Lark flashes a cold, calm smile.
"As much as I would like to talk about Sweet's true self, the only answers belong to her. Though I can sometimes detect unstable Anti in close proximity, I am mostly certainly not immune to it.
Has Razorback been thorough in vetting all contracts not given by Shanis? She is one of perhaps thirty ponies I have absolute trust in, and that alone should tell you how much I value her being alive and well."
>Stiffly making his way around the table's right side, the sealed entrance/exit is given a speculative sniff, waving a hoof over it.
"Hm, odd. I would have expected a turret or two here. Save them. Regardless of what 'Pear Blossom' might be, the most vaunted of Primal Psions stands a tiny chance of surviving that number straight to their face, particularly when accompaneighed by a select number of ruthlessly vindictive Rune Knights."
>Reaching out to test it, he pauses to consider something, mood alternating between annoyed and unreasonably disturbed.
"Then let it be said that I now owe you a debt which may never be properly repaid, albeit I cannot promise anything regarding my daughters, nor the Vigilites. Sha'Ro, however... I don't even want to consider what she may have to 'offer'. That God-Killer carries more secrets than Stalliongrad as a whole has learned, uncovered, recorded, and forgotten, combined.
Two to five seconds if I remember this right, and mares: thank you once more! If that isn't one of Horizon's agents then break all of her legs AFTER silencing her!"
>Giving three light taps, Stream Lark grunts as he jolts into a painful four-point canter.
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <E.Sprint
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]

[1d6 = 2] <Naliyna
[1d6 = 4] <Amerose

>The assembled Crystal ponies collectively humming in deeply twisted, vibrating tones that promised harsh retribution, the presumed leader's helmet rolling around to make a short nod.
>Reflective green and blue eyes gleaming through visor in a pre-kill frenzy state, the mare's delicate soprano is vocally marred by a constant, sharp hiss.
"This bitchmare's ours, and tell that hardass General Twisted Teats to stop taking hard targets from us!"
[1d6+16 = (4+16) = 20] <Imperial Extremis Crystal Rune: Savage Presence
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <GM.Crystal Runes: Shatter-Kill Preparation
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Shatter Preparation x9
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <Manabomb Placemarent

[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23] <?????
[1d6+18 = (6+18) = 24]
[1d6+18 = (1+18) = 19]
[1d6+18 = (6+18) = 24]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <?????
>vs:
[1d100 = 67]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown 4
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390774
390831
>>390771
> [YouTube] Stephy Martini - Mad Desire (Lyrics and Visualizer) [Embed]

*"Agreed, but cannot be directly Dynasty related. Crystal Kingdom weapon system created by their Lorekeeper orders in absentia. No other probabilities. Cannot recall a single word from Kingdom and Imperial records related to a system remotely similar to this, however.
As to your second question: I have no idea. Millions of possible and probable variables, not one of which we have the capability to confirm now."*
*"Hold on, you were talking about a Dynasty Temple way southwest, right? Could it have come from there? ...I really should've brought my best weapons, maybe even one of those fractal explosives too."*
*"Directionally speaking: a greater than ninety-percent chance of the answer being yes. That ruin would have been within Caneighdia's outer border, directly inside Kingdom claimed territory during the Middle Dynasty Era. Impossible to know for certain it was a research-dedicated Temple, but the probability is assumed high given a full Starborn flight chose not to attempt landing.
Trying to recall all specifications of explicitly banned weaponry from that time period-"*
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <Adept Crystal Devices & Technologies
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <Observer Crystal Empire
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6]
[1d6 = 3] <Apprentice Crystal Engineering
[1d6 = 1]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <Senior Crystal Kingdom
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8] <Adept Dynastic Temples
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4]
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11] <Graduate Empress Silver
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <Adept Middle Dynasty
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7] <Junior Tactician
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]

>Picking a new course over ancient pathways among the steadily smaller trees, each was now approximately medium cruiser sized, notations reading between 100M to 150M in diameter.
>Unable to do more than continue slight yaw or pitch adjustments in preventing an instantaneously lethal head-on, both WARNING symbols fade to a solid, dull red, still remaining steady at 284MPH without ticking over.
>Physically settled into full control of each micro-muscle movement, the ring of crystalline-foam continuing to, at a pace best measured in seconds per mile, gain, still causing zero damage to trees in its path.
>Far ahead and barely visible, patches of bright white appear among the most spread out gigatrees, passing over the first to leave an exceptionally long streak of flash freezing moisture behind.

*"What were they trying to MAKE!? That thing's pumping out at least quintillion joules every damned second!"*
*"Maybe it's a system designed to shred every last Construct on Tallus all at once, or wipe out most of the Rift Plane in one go?"*
*"Unlikely. If that were the end goal, why has it not been replicated in smaller scales and endlessly reproduced?"*
>Displaying a small window detailing the closest sets of pseduo-cloud formations tracking the OT-4's course, the outermost were contrary to their physical appearance: remaining stable within a 0.392% variance of the massive expanding wave itself.
*"And it's somehow gaining nearly three miles an hour for shit's sakes!"*
>Select patterns relating to frequencies and travel speeds remain equally consistent in the same, except with a 0.11 to 0.26 second interval between new formations.
*"Pare, this is gonna sound completely ratshit crazy: think it's possible to flip this thing backwards at some point to pilot in reverse?"*
*"If you are thinking of utilizing this vehicle's weaponry to destabilize some part, parcel, or portion.. no."*
*"And why not?"*
*"High order calculations based on negative-friction harmonic states. The 'wave' we are seeing is still thoroughly coherent and cohesive, thousands of times beyond the most ludicrously insane control mechanisms. Far outstrips what I estimate the complete hierarchy of Dragons to be capable of; their collective output would not even cause a one percent disruption."*
>Barely holding back from punching forward monoplate, Lonestar sits forwards, flicking controls once more and glaring into constantly updating emission variables.
*"I hate being told 'no', Hodch, and EVERYTHING'S got a weakness, even you-"*
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.390791
390798
>>390772
"One that will not be taken lightly. It is at least a godsend that we can kill, or incapacitate and interrogate, her agents if captured."
>He gave a soft nod.
"I doubt she's much of a talking mood either, at the moment. She had some hard thinking ahead of her the last I saw her."
>Bubba figured she would be fine. Eventually.
>Given the lack of him being scalped or drawn and quartered over what he made her face.
>He took a deep breath in through his nose. Eyes closed for a long moment.
"From what I've seen, no. We've been doing whatever was posted. Most of the notices haven't been suspect, but I've taken down everything we had and we will be thoroughly vetting everything from now on."

"You never know, though. One can't be too careful in circumstances such as this."
>He knew that was a bit of a lie, being overly cautious has absolutely led to failure in the past.
>Bubba watched Stream Lark leave, before looking towards the group of murderous crystal ponies.
>He figured it was probably a good idea to wait until the dust settles before leaving himself.
>Otherwise one of them might stab him.
"I'll make sure to put it in a memo."
Razorback Enclave: Missed Connections 5
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390798
390799 390800
>>390791
>One of the Rune Knights in the rear swivels enough to eye you over, several times in fact: up, down, then back up again, snapping forwards at a sharp whistle.
"Eyes forward! This one's OFF the list!"
>Rime-tipped lance freezing air around it, the leadmare's helmet tilts, the cell's energy-state barrier creases outwards in random patterns, almost in the shape of hoofprints.
"..Cadenza's told us about Otherworlders, said humans can kill Abominations, Planars, Undead, that sort without needing banned equipmarent, so-"
>Taking an aggressive step forwards at chunks of wall surrounding the cell flaking off at first, ears twitching around inside the helmet's protectors, she snorts in slight amusemarent.
"Whatever THAT happens to be isn't a pony, if it ever bloody was."
"Bet a thousand gems it's a Freak."
"Plow you. Five hundred on Abomination."
"Nah, two thousand says it's one of the missing Inner Council Wards."
"I'll take all three bets and double them. Human, we knock it down and you put a few holes in it, but we'll need it out far enough to break legs, smash something important, stun, or freeze it. DON'T hit any of us either, our rear armor facings are weaker than the front sections-
Buuuuut if you're into that sort of thing, maybe we'll come visit when Cady lets us all off duty."
>Sharp nickers are the mares reform into a pair of diagonal lines, leaving a two foot wide gap

>Constant heavy smashes crumple the barrier outwards, progressively larger shards of stone clattering against Crystal pony ExoFrames for nearly half a minute.
>SomeTHING that could have been a hoof crushes through, if it wasn't the size of a large anti-tank mine, sheathed in burning trails of thick white-gold vapors, or composed of half-stone, half-muscle, next to the cell entrance.
>Pulling back, an eerie, deep inhale from lungs that shouldn't exist is made, then a distinctly non-equine, and most definitely NOT mortal howl-screech.
>Three more exceptionally hard strikes open the cell's left stone side, white-gold shearing off with each violent movement and leaving a strange burnt rotten flesh scent in air.
>A MUCH too large deformed snout pokes through, little more than ribbons of jagged flesh in a crude approximation, Rune Knights eagerly waiting with one hoof in the air.

> [YouTube] Alan Aztec - Boo (Halloween Special) [Embed]

"YOU HAD A CHA-"
"SHUT UP AND BLEED ALREADY!"
>In unison the squad stomps forwards, lances dropping ninety degrees to lock in place on their right sides, loud rippling fractures in realspace streaking into the thing, near-instantly followed by detonations projected in a loose cone shape-
[1d6+12 = (3+12) = 15] <Small Diamond Manabombs x12
[1d6+12 = (1+12) = 13] <Medium Diamond Manabombs x6
[1d6+21 = (3+21) = 24] <GM.Crystal Runes: Shatter-Kill
[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23]
[1d6+17 = (1+17) = 18]
[1d6+16 = (2+16) = 18]
[1d6+13 = (6+13) = 19] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Shatter
[1d6+13 = (6+13) = 19]
]1d6+17]
[1d6+16 = (3+16) = 19]

"Strike and fade mares!"
>Leaping forwards one by one starting with the leadmare, unmistakable Rime-cluster tips impact wall, hard blue backwashing throughout the small jail cell and dropping temperatures to freezing in the first second-
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13] <M.Lunge Lead
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13] <M.Lunge #2
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (3+10) = 13] <M.Lunge #3
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (2+10) = 12] <M.Lunge #4
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14] <M.Lunge #5
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <M.Lunge #6
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <Recovery
[1d6+10 = (6+10) = 16] <M.Lunge #7
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <Recovery
[1d6+9 = (1+9) = 10] <M.Lunge #8
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <Recovery
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <M.Lunge #9
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <Recovery
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <M.Lunge #10
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <Recovery
fuckyouspecificallymissingroll
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390799
>>390798
[1d6+17 = (1+17) = 18]
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
f4ff690
?
No.390800
390801
>>390798
>He'd give her an even stare as she clearly looked him over like a trophy or something.
>He was used to it.
>He still found it weird as fuck.
"Aye, with a bit of grit and spunk."
>Probably the wrong word, but either way he drew his sidearm.
>The area was way too confined to use Gilda.
"I'll do my best. Can't use my rifle safely this close."
>If all else fails he can try his hooksword.

>Standing off to the side, Bubba waited for the opportune time to shoot.
>And to not immediately get krumpt by the thing being held back.
>As the THING emerges into view, Bubba would ready his handgun, keeping alert and waiting for the mares to get out of the way enough to fire.
>Once he had a good enough shot, he took it.
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] <E. Small Arms
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8]
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8]
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppelganger
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390801
390802
>>390800
>Calling back in dull chiming tones, the leadmare's impact strikes wide right into nothing, leaping backwards for the second in line, striking the misshapen snout and sending pieces of Rime-frozen flesh inwards.
"Better have a few thousand tons of both right now!"
>Second lunging back to her original position, the third impacts much the same, skidding backwards, though the fourth misses, fifth lance landing a direct impact into the hole only to leap back steadily, sixth rocking the snout backwards-
>And ABSOLUTELY FUMBLEFUCKS ALL OF HER HOOF PLACEMARENT, skidding right and hanging as her lance wedges crossways, then furiously tries to scramble backwards with a raucous cackle.
>Remarkably the seventh in line executes a flawless, contemptful lance slam and rearward bounce back to where she was, the monstrous thing scream-howling in a mixture of agony, rage, and maximum frustration.
>Ninth near-missing and only winging the creature, she succumbs to the same fate as number six, both of their crystalline lances jammed together-
"Stop touching the tips!"
"HAH!"
"That's what she said!"
"SHUT UP AND KILL!"
>Taking the opportunity for three steady, ringing shots while six and nine nice~ try to gain distance backwards, Rime burned and frozen rancid flesh shatters inwards, number ten in line grazing the snout, keeping her hoofing and scrabbling on stone in unsteady reverse.

>Half-snarling, half-shrieking, you dimly realize what the creature probably is as it continues smashing into stone and barrier, the mares preparing for another lunge forwards-
"I'M GOING TO ENJOY TEARING ENTRAILS OUT AND FEASTING ON THEM!"
[1d6+18 = (2+18) = 20] <Crushing Force
[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23]
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21]
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19] <Heavyweight

>Dividing into two diagonal lines of four, the leadmare's helmet turns to whistle at you.
"Wall won't hold long, we either try pinning it to the rear wall or lure it out and open up with Rime, your call!
Mares, SHOVE IT IN!"
>No sharp snickers or laughter this time, eight rapidly forming, war crime worthy spikes launch forwards while the unlucky pair struggle to free their weapons.
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17] <GM.Crystal Runes: Powerspike
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Powerspike x7
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13]
[1d6 = 3] <Recovery #6
[1d6 = 2] <Recovery #8
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.390802
390804
>>390801
"Best I can do is a handful and maybe a spiteful grenade later!"
>Bubba can only watch as several of the mares absolutely fuck up their assault, but luckily none of them are harmed.
>His bullets also luckily miss the mares, several shots impacting the beast dead on as he fires.

>He has to admit that it's a good thing that they can joke around while trying to subdue this beast-thing.
>He knew if it was really bad they'd shut up and focus 110% on not dying.

"Lure the bastard out, open it up!"
>He called out, firing again.
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] <E. Small Arms
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4]
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppelganger 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390804
390805
>>390802
> [YouTube] Electric Head, Part 1 (The Agony) [Embed]

"Don't know what this thing is-"
>Vocally miffed at the creature pounding larger chunks of stone outwards, the barrier flickers multiple times signaling imminent failure.
"But it stinks worse than my last five dates!"
>Clamps snapping open on their ExoFrames and releasing lances, six and nine back away, swiveling left and stomping behind you, the first angered, the second a bit too eager to, figuratively, pounce.
"Better get my lance back later or I'm biting somepony's hooves!"
"Just like your pillow huh?"
"Wish I could shove a chunk of Rime RIGHT down the back of your neck!"
"Oooo, so you like freezing play too?! Just say when you want to frost me later~!"
>Now that was worth the rightful mix of sharp laughs, though it doesn't take much to feel the leadmare's reasonably disappointed eye roll.
>Spikes impacting deeply into ruined frozen muscle, your first shot strikes above and right into the barrier, ricocheting two right turns into the opposite cell section, the second 230 grain bullet crunching into ruined snout, the third cracking into fractured stone low of the hole.
>The thing halts briefly to screech incomprehensibly, then begins stomping wildly at the buckling cell wall.
[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23] <Crushing Force
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21]
[1d6+18 = (6+18) = 24]
[1d6+18 = (1+18) = 19]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18] <Heavyweight

>The Rune Knights immediately realize they had pissed it off far more than necessary, a series of bright multi-hued spheres popping into the gap, widening into shields and trying to wedge against the creature's efforts.
"Crush the damn leg or hold it back!"
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <GM.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield x9
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]

>Helmet swiveling around partway, the leadmare snorts, ears tapping inside her helmet furiously.
"Run back and get everypony outta the Enclave's center, we'll keep this rotten freak busy 'til you say there's enough room to freeze it somewhere! Check if Lark got out safely later!"

[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <Amerose
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <Naliyna
[1d6+1 = (3+1) = 4] <Stream Lark
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.390805
390807 390811
>>390804
"Whatever it is, its insignificance is writ upon its face."
>Bubba ensured that he was loud enough for it to definitely hear him as a bit of a distraction for the creature.
>He has also definitely added to pissing it off with his gunfire.

"Aye, don't do anything stupid until I'm back, that way you'll have an unbiased witness to not overstate it."
>Bubba would turn and make haste back towards the exit, giving the group a quick glance over as he does so.
Eaten Rolls poast
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
0017fcf
?
No.390807
390811
>>390805
[1d6 = 5] <B. Sprint
[1d6 = 1]
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppleganger 6
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390811
390815
>>390805
>>390807
> [YouTube] White Zombie - Electric Head, Part 2 (The Ecstasy) [Embed]

>Profound violent, sincerely messy, and unspeakably non-sanitary hatred follows the words, the combined shields holding, though several crack from increasingly furious blows.
>Obviously the creature still had some thought for its previous physical appearance.
"Sorry, don't have any BURN CREAM to spare for monsters!"
>Only the leadmare cackles hawkishly, stopping at four shields rendered into little more than floating shards, poorly acting as a defensive barrier.
"Oh for LUNA'S SAKES! Do you four NOT know how to produce a variable harmonic shield properly!? Here's a quick hint: TRY HARDER!"
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <GM.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19]
[1d6+15 = (5+15) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield x9
[1d6+11 = (3+11) = 14]
[1d6+11 = (4+11) = 15]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16]
>vs:
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21] <Crushing Force
[1d6+18 = (3+18) = 21]
[1d6+18 = (4+18) = 22]
[1d6+18 = (4+18) = 22]
[1d6+15 = (4+15) = 19] <Heavyweight

>Judging from the stone fractures and nearly depleted barrier, the Rune Knights would be able to hold for maybe one minute, unless the monstrosity was able to think rationally again.. IF it could recover from the scorching rebuke, that is.
"HAH! I won't be thinking about my next performarance reviews for at least two weeks after this!"

>Neatly missing a step and turning it into a partial slide, boots catch before you stumble.
>Nopony definitely watched that.
>But were they recording?
>Hauling out of the jail cell fast enough to break an addiction for competence through the timed doorway, straight ahead was Stream Lark, broadside while arguing with Naliyna and Amerose close to the translocation matrice.
>A U-shape surrounded the three, made up by the daunting, collected might of retired or off duty Starborn and active Crystal Lorekeepers, you notice an absurd number of sketchy, dangerous, sinister, corrupted, tainted, probably sentient, unstable, most likely sapient, questionably stable, likely legal, possibly illegal, definitely illegal, multiple classifications of 'nope', a few outright banned, and one HUGE 'nope', weapons in beefman hands, claws, or held in dangerously calm crystalline and magical fields above heads.
>Which, thankfully, weren't being pointed at the Councilierge, though as the older stallion's right leg points south, the majority orient in your direction with proper military about faces.
>The remainder, of course mostly batponies and unicorns, were either incapable, sluggish, had a few scars, or simply lazy.
[1d200 = 135]
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
2d6e9a1
?
No.390815
390817
>>390811
>Yeah it was time for Bubba to depart.
>Quickly leaving, he avoids becoming horizontal as he exits.
>He'd have to be quick with moving the ponies outside or at least one mare might end up as paste.
>Or roughed up.

>He gives the three a brief, disapproving stare at dilly dallying, but turns his focus to the rest of the ensemble.
>He'd have to be very diplomatic in this situation.
"We need an area of the center cleared out so we can deal with the thing currently attempting to break out and eat some pony or three."
>Smooth.
"Feel free to assist once it's out here, but move back for us."
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppelganger 6
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390817
390820
>>390815
> [YouTube] I'm Your Boogieman [Embed]

>Over four hundred eyes, some of which were between different states of tangible or intangible, swivel and turn to rest on you.
>Lunar and Crystal Kingdom alike were not typically patient with the prospects of hard or no work, violence, or fun times, making Razorback Enclave a highly desired travel destination among veterans, along with a decent number of elites.
>Some, clearly less capable to enact the third option, too old, or injured, the rest merely not wanting to wait, pass the likely, probably, and definite war crimes directly to the front lines:
>A wide selection of hardened Knights, close range bombardmarent specialists, a few exceptionally hefty Minotaurs, allied Gryphon hunters, marecenaries in black half-plate, flowing white robed Lorekeepers with unusual sexual fascinations for magically explosive devices, professional killers, and one pegasus that you weren't sure wasn't supposed to be here.
>One of the Lunar beefmen shouts for all to back up and leave the translocation matrice wide open.

>Apparently finished with their quiet argumarent, Amerose and Stream Lark follow Naliyna into a stretched out red gateway, unusually pointed south in the Fortress.
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9] <Amerose
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10] <Naliyna
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <Stream Lark

>Creating a wide, inverted half moon shape stacked in two lines roughly 100M around the matrice, close and medium combatants in front of casters and Crystal ponies.
>The same Minotaur sets an impressively large hammer to his left shoulder, which could have been made from an anchor, or two, the right raising to make a 'go' circling motion at you, grinning in well contained fury.
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.390820
390840
>>390817
>Giving the crowd a brief look over, Bubba nods internally.
>Definitely the right crowd to offer the prospect of stabbing something.
>Giving the Minotaur a thumbs up, Bubba would turn to run back to the cells.
[1d6 = 2] <B. Sprint
[1d6 = 5]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390831
390841
>>390774
>A disturbing possibility surfaces in the operator's mind as he hones in on the truncated HUD of the pilot's bubble. Hodch's conjecture and recent observations prompt him to consider the strange gravitic nature of the onrushing anomaly.
(If it is tracking waveforms, resonances as Crystal Kingdom ponies do... on the off chance... )
>With a thought, he dissipates his unnamed graviton weapon that had been Stickied to his thigh.
>As Lone exclaims that the cloud is yet still gaining speed, Pareidolia grits his teeth.
(Need to increase speed or entire operation will fail. Outcome remains the same if I lose speed or maintain.)
*"Attempting speed increase. Answer would have matched Hodch."*

[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7] <Adept Human Antigravity Craft
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8] <M. Failure is Not Advised

*"And flash freezing is occurring ahead."*
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.390839
390844
>>390757
"Oh, so this isn't serious serious then. Okay!"
>Amethyst settled on his arm and listened to the drums and singers, frowning. They were not very good at song.
>Her brow furrowed and a gasp slipped loose at the very idea of gifts being destroyed.
>Well no wonder they were so upset.
"I think I get it, I'd declare war too if my gifts were destroyed. Can you just imagine? I mean really!"
>Amethyst muttered in annoyance about reliquaries and armories being completely off limits to collateral damage to keep the shinies shiny.
>She didn't really listen to the rest, boring political stuff, nothing she had to concern herself with.
>Her dam stating that it was 'big hug time' caught her attention again however.
>Oh no. Oh no, no, no!
>Amethyst knew what was coming, her dam knew that she knew what was coming, and yet she still hopped off her father's arm and submitted to the hug.

[YouTube] Squeaky Toy Sound Effect [Embed]

>Unbidden, every time.
"I will mom, do you want me to bring anything back?"
>The ipotane clung back, though never could she apply as much force as her dam was able to.

>Parting from her dam and sire to take up position on Avernus' right flank, Amy cocked her head in confusion even as she drew her Stick in puppeted hand for support.
>Was it not obvious? Why else would Avernus commit to memory Tachell's goofery? Or spend so much time with him? Or always smile that absentminded smile whenever he came up? Or any number of flashing neon signs?
>Lila failing to pick up on that for years was rather silly, though not as silly as her own inability to dredge up the truly forbidden lore of where foals came from.
>It occurred to her that since Avernus and Tachell were together, she could definitely get an answer this time.
>Amethyst turned to Avernus to voice her question.
"-!"
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppelganger 7
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390840
391021
>>390820
> [YouTube] Demon Speeding [Embed]

>Achieving a better top speed than Roust normally did, by the time you pass through the sealing door again the Imperial mares had reformed into a tight reverse V.
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17] <GM.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Squad M.Crystal Runes: Reverb-Shield x9
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (6+11) = 17]
[1d6+11 = (1+11) = 12]
>vs:
[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23] <Crushing Force
[1d6+18 = (1+18) = 19]
[1d6+18 = (2+18) = 20]
[1d6+18 = (5+18) = 23]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16] <Heavyweight

>Watching the deformed hoof through a thick, properly layered shield this time, the leadmare snorts acidly at the creature's incessant noises, shouting at it in razor-thin black humor.
"You're dumber than a brain damaged rat getting trapped like this!"
>Spinning around at an obscenely vile, wet sounding roar, the hoof lifts to give... the worst half-assed salute you've ever seen.
>Even the most offensively criminal batponies had better standards.
"Room's clear here, shield should last thirty seconds at least. Come on mares, let's set up a real welcoming party!"

>Pointedly glaring at the leadmare, then other Rune Knights storming out, six and nine somehow resist the overwhelming need to facehoof, which could have been fatal.
>Swiveling on hoof as a pair to face the table, lifting it and the seats together with sorely disappointed hums, the furniture is floated into an opposite cell.
>Six emits a soft whistle to enact the barrier for it, nine collecting Amerose's tea set above her armored saddle, both surveying the composite shield holding before nodding at the same time.
"And now it's clear. Shall we go?"
"And now it's clear. Shall we go?"
>They definitely weren't twins given six's rough, though calmer attitude, nine's eager and remarkably carefree tone marked her as a sometime mare toucher.
"Almost forgot, you may need this."
>A packet of white paper slips out from six's shoulder plates, ripped open and tossed onto you, lifting up nearly three hooves on a stable Float enchantmarent.
"We'll carry the rear, you go first please."
"Of course you make that offer before I get the chance to!"
"Can you not right now?! Kill first, decontaminate second, send reports third, then you can flirt!"
"Why not mix the last two?"
"Just stop!"
"Fiiiine!"
>These two were at least much more considerate, though not quite semi-professional yet it seemed.
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390841
390843
>>390831
>Releasing the weapon from reality, the wave's upper formations maintain their semi-erratic nature, leading faux-clouds continuously foaming outwards.
>Pressuring the control sticks minute degrees past the previous, the OT-4's speed now read 286MPH, indicators changing to REDLINE IMMINENT.

*"Less than thirty Crystal Temples were constructed during the Middle Dynasty; only Lorekeeper orders were allowed in and out. Silver did visit them often, and she was noted as hesitant in allowing them access to specific post-prototype Cores. There is an excellent chance she may have witnessed or heard of a catastrophic failure originating from one, though much of this is based on conflicting information.
The wave is definitively resonant, based on crystalline properties, though in such a bizarre form, using nearly every wavelength imaginable, along with some I did not know existed, and is both frictionless to matter, energy, anti of both, and null of both.
In sum: it does not match a single record, marention, rumor, or piece of horsesay I am aware of."*

>Maintaining strict observation forwards between progressively larger trees, now in the outskirts of a snow zone, the encroaching, and not too far behind, near-Day blinks.
>A sheet of pure black passes by, wraparound screen displaying the waveform behind in a dead stop, while forwards was an endless, flat, tall grassy field of a dull crystal-white, appearing frozen even as the Landbarge passes over.
>Cloud formations ripple, roil, condense, then slowly collapse rearwards into the wave, jolting backwards the instant each are rejoined.

>Lonestar's head rigidly swivels towards you, face caught between relieved horror and a mood that was, barely, human.
>Carefully reaching into his coat to take out an exceptionally thin map, Lonestar unfolds it out to nearly 6' by 6', shifting left to lay the top on the engineer's seat for a quick perusal.
>Straps from the rear compartment being released, then hooves landing lightly, Katyal taps her radio.
*"Horse hugging nice job, Pare! Ey Hodch, what kind of clearing is this?"*
*"It appears to be Caneighdian long frostgrass. Quite good."*
*"To eat, or sleep on?"*
*"Both!"*
*"Figures.'*

>Folding the map's lower half up by a quarter as the Reservist's head pokes into the open driver door, then glancing up to his readouts, the older man mutters harshly under his breath, finger tapping at numerous points.
"Know what I hate admitting?"
"An instinctual preference for dealing with Ferron whom do not see humans as potential mates?"
"Besides that, and Finny still doesn't count. I hate how often you're right, Hodch. Was still homing in on us right until it stopped dead and being.. here. Guided, directed, vectored, sensing, whatever else, it has, had, a range limitation."
"Were you able to track how far?"
"Right on twenty two miles from where it started. And another thing: the maps Spiral had are insanely wrong."
"How so?"
"Take a look. Rerculon tossed some real fucked up math before I shut it down. That Warp Gate sent us a little over fifty miles northwest of the Fortress, right?"
"Close to, yes."
"We traveled about a hundred eighty or so last night from here, and another twenty five tonight to there, but look: we're almost two thousand miles southwest of big ruin we're supposed to reach."
"I find thaaaaat.. not impossible given some freakish and flat out nonsensical phenomena I've been involved with. Or in. Where are we currently?"
>Waving a hand over a large section to settle on the top right, the man sighs.
"Completely off the newer maps. Going by this we're in a giant tract of barely traveled land marked as the Northwestern Equestria Outlands. In short; way the fuck away from anywhere we know of."
>Ears flicking around as he thinks, the unicorn's tone brightens.
"Hmmm? Ohhhh, this is a Fold Region! More rare than a batpony born with a wavy coat! I know of nine marked throughout the New Everfree, but this one is unknown. And rather strange. Regardless, think of this as being inside a bubble where gravity and spatial positioning are entirely reversed."
"Hodch... I've been in ONE before and you kn-"
"Well aware of the time dilation and upper spectrum ratios. For the most part. Can't go backwards without returning to danger either.
So, unless you two want a four hour lecture, all I will state for now is this: violently damaged, decayed, corrupted, tainted, or contaminated regions of Tallus are sometimes folded out of physical, energetic, and Elemarental spectrums. This thoroughly inhibits Planar connections and allows the same to decay rapidly, though the vast majority of Eldritch beings cannot stay long due to concentrated entropic pressures.
This will not effect Otherworlders negatively nor positively, though there is an intentional lack of information regarding Fold Zones, save for the knowledge on how to travel through one quickly, and that nearly all were caused by Dynastic failures."

>Katyal calls from the rear rather sharply, lockers opened and being rummaged through.
"Turn off any recording devices, and keep them off until we leave!"
"Wh-"
"Do as she states. I am hereby ordering that whatever any of us may see, sense, feel, or experience, we do not ever share what is within this Fold Region to any. Not to each other, and especially not that infuriating Draconequis. Dul, does the Great Remnant understand these places?"
"Great Remnant know. Dul know secrets cause problem lots too. Great Remnant always say to keep secrets secret, so Dul agree."

>Snout pressing into monoplate with a profoundly relieved sigh, Hodch speaks in a half-flat tone.
"Good. Continue traveling within a three to five degree orientation of the ruin's coordinates. We will leave this specific Fold to exit at an aligned spatial connection or drift on the opposite end. And should any need to visit the Mess Hall, then.. well, now is a good time."

*****
>Lonestar & Katyal gain: 2XP.
>Pareidolia gains: 5XP.
>Hodch gains: yet ANOTHER in a long string of nightmares.
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390843
390845
>>390841
>Day suddenly shifts back to night as the OT-4 passes beyond the edge of the visible light emitted by the weaponized cloud. Pareidolia watches the viewscreen with bated breath as it roils back on itself. The wave of energized foam resonance collapses and flows backwards as if it reached an invisible barrier.
(Escape... achieved?)
>He slowly eases the pressure on the sticks, bringing the speed down to a less dangerous level not within the redline danger zone.
>Offering a slow nod to Lonestar, he exhales and rolls his neck and ankles in an attempt to relieve tension from that near brush with death.
>Searching for and setting the autopilot function, Pareidolia sets it as Hodch determines their location to be inside a Fold Region.
*"Will we lose time or gain it inside this zone? How long will it take to traverse relative for us?"*

>At Katyal's interjection and upon Hodch's confirmation, he leaves a verbal note for himself and Shiibo in the currently recording footage before reaching up his helmet and turning off the inbuilt capture function.
*"Understood. Will reactivate Shiibo and inform her of the conditions."*
>He would also turn on Shiibo's systems again and explain the recently transpired events along with the stipulation to not record any of the events inside the Fold.
Tartarus Tunnel Network, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390844
390944
>>390839

>Patting your head once more, Umakachov sets his Kerbann Staff down with a raspy, battle-eager exhale, traces of local Elemental energetics drawn to it.
"Not yet at least. I will save at least one skull for you to decorate, and an excellent fur pelt if one presents itself."
>Reaching up to tap one beetle horn, then the other, the frown is felt rather than seen.
"They are not being specific about their accusations. I understand they are outcasts, but they have not explained why, when, and how exactly those events happened. At the risk of sounding presumptive, they are acting in an aggressively wanton hyper-emotional state without reason or logic to spare. Why wait two years in declaring a war which should have been decisively accepted?
And avoid ALL field rations before testing them first."
>Snickering muffledly at the somewhat expected sound, a much gentler hug is given before dropping down to give a conspiratorial wink.
"Whatever foods you can get from the Conclaves and Empire, especially the little pumpkins. You'll like those a lot, and make sure to visit the grazing stands if you get a chance, too. I never did get to try the cold hardy sweet lemon grasses.
Be good, but not TOO good, Amy!"

>Finding the pseudostone interestingly crunchy underhoof, the elder mare's head tilts upwards, gazing at the ever shifting tunnel ceiling in faint surprise.
>Head swiveling to eye the husband and horsewife challenging each other to reach ten, twenty five, then fifty kills, Avernus rolls her eyes.
>Of course they'd be wanting trophies.
>Having little trouble pulling the sleds, the unicorn releases a plaintive sigh.
"It does not make sense for outcasts of the Dominion to declare war in Tartarus. No Solars have arrived since-"
>Halting mid-strike briefly, Avernus realizes... something probably hilarious in fore AND hind sight, snorting bemusedly and resuming her forward course.
"The Shades are either completely incompetent and never ask enough questions, or are of such utterly lazy natures that they all somehow marenaged to miss the most important clues. It is little matter now."

>Swirling metallic right eye lifting, then lowering, a delicate, purposeful smile creases her face.
"Of course I will answer, my dear. When you fall in love, it could take a year, two perhaps. Three, sometimes. A decade or more would be unusual, though. A foal arrives only to make the world that much more beautiful for sire and dam, as well as the rest of one's herd. To rush such a wonderful event is to take from yourself the beauty of both nature and equinity. It is rarely possible to scry or divine when the time is right.
Admittedly I have not had foals, though all of my sisters bore at least three."
>Cheeks puffing for three-point-two seconds with a marginally nostalgic ear roll, she releases the breath in a small, cautious exhale.
"The greatest Sorceries of my time could have, if we had chosen to, allowed me to bear foal from Tachell, yet we agreed such would be shallow, and callous. Our love comes from shared principles, beliefs, and the blessed sanctity we both feel towards life as a whole. Thus we could not in good conscience nor faith subject our progeny to be half equine and half Dracosine as the primal natures and instincts of each often oppose the other.
Excluding some Planars, most Extra-Planar, and nearly all Eldritch. Otherworlders must ever be considered on a singular basis however."

>Ahead was a mostly solid, technically supported pseudostone in a squashed oval leading upwards at a shallow grade, but at least weren't stairs.
>The walls were peculiar compared to the tunnels you'd seen before; lined with strange chunks, fractures, jutting pieces, altered sections, and ruined half-physical stones.
>No earth pony had been here for centuries, whether original or subspecies, nor were there any indications of other equines.
>Strange tasting swirls of long decaying Elemental forces, remnants of spells, shards of ancient Sorceries, a burnt tang of electromagnetics, unmistakably dead flecks of Eldritch corruption, and faint wafts of fresh air mix, though a buzzing hum from around a stretched out bend was unusual.
>Passing up and around without straining your legs, odd black flickers in the distance draw the fiery pegasi's attention, standing upright, ears perked in moderate alarm.
"Not beetles, bees, wasps, hornets, or ants. Can't be stichier, termiks, birds, driftsnakes, drakes, wyrms. Also not flying squirrels."
"That is quite a large number though. I have neither seen nor heard similar in tunnels before."
"That humming. Big eyes, long body, rapid wings. Has to be dragonflies. Could be avrek, but those are only in the Everfrees, Moors, and parts of the Dragonspines. I think."
>Squinting briefly, the pegasus flaps her wings out, feathers flicking in anticipation.
"Might be lowland swamp dragonflies, like to a flying scorpion without a stinger or claws, I suppose. Smash them if they try to land, they can bite really hard. Don't think they're all that dangerous, but if they've been stuck here long enough to starve, they could be really annoying."
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <B.Scouting
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]

[1d6 = 1] <Swarm Reaction

[1d500 = 183]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown In Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390845
390937
>>390843
>Dropping into a safe zone of 150MPH, the autopilot system was, unsurprisingly, a top left mounted button.

>Stepping inside to eye Lonestar turning the map sideways and folding it back down, Hodch studies the readouts in front before speaking unsurely.
"Cannot tell for certain. Most function equivalent to Tallus in a degraded ratio, however some have unusual dilation or expansion ratios which are incongruent. We may be actively functioning from one to thirty times faster compared to external timeframes. Aging is equivalent, though sometimes slower.
As to the second, we will not know until exiting and calculating distance from entrance to exit. Lone, Kat, watch check?"
"Tablet, watch got eaten, remember? 10:36PM and forty-two for me."
"I've got sixteen seconds past 10:39PM."
"Hm. Double check once we exit. I have a severe distaste for temporal phenomena and associated garbage."

*"Soooo... outside the obvious GIGANTIC SUPER WEAPON making me wish I'd stayed in Folu's bed and not come along, didn't sense anything out of place. Still can't feel the giant silverine teated horse though."*
*"Ain't that a good not-actually-a-problem considering all the damage she's caused?"*
*"Doubt it. She rarely lied outright unless a pony was going to be hurt, and she was never.. what's that word, omniscient? I hate her as much as the true Saddle Arabians and Neighsians do, but she wasn't evil. Least not that I've seen or heard about. Just insanely hyper-aware between extreme caution, overly eager, and paranoid. Besides being the thirstiest damned slut most of the time."*
*"Which makes you different how, exactly?"*
*"...why am I the one taking all the potshots now? Okay, fine, you got me, but not by much. Silver is, was, or whatever, irrevocably hornier than I could ever hope to be.
Sometimes though, she was really, truly, intensely dumb when a project specially caught her attention. The first Faux-Natural Nature Core made her lose her mind for a decade or more, she had six foals during that time."*
*"Please... stop. I don't want to hear anything more."*
*"How do you think I feel knowing more about her remarkably loose sexual preferences than what she actually helped accomplish?"*

>Clicking back in, Katyal shoves a locker closed in the rear, sounding marginally more mentally stable now.
*"Not trying to be harsh dude, just.. places like this need to be left alone. No interaction, study, nada. Ever had full body pain that didn't go away? Tallus feels all of it, not that she's got a choice. Some recover, others don't."*
>Reclining in the gunner's seat, Lonestar doesn't even bother with his radio, voice raising to compensate instead.
"What's the harm of us traveling through?"
"Far be it for ME to call you insensitive.. think about the first time you visited the Ferron Delvan clan in their castle. What happened there?"
"......right. We could, in theory, be screwing over a recovering culture that's been lost or so-"
*"Don't finish that sentence, please. Let live, don't touch or leave traces."*
"Got it. No stopping to pick up some grass then."

>Booting up as normal, 'Shiibo' resumes normal functions within expected parameters, standing at attention.
'Performing full drive sector check.. complete, no data corruption found. Running heuristic diagnostics.. done, no program, file, or avatar changes noted. Drivers optional.
Orders acknowledged sir. Switching to personal interaction mode and checking.. no data on working or functional super weapons found. Exclusions: the Four Alicorns, General Sapphire Kiwi, the Ward known as Nova Flicker, and Casefile: Contaminated Eggbread.'
>Blinking at a rapid exchange of data, the Rerculon's lower functions becoming accessible once more, the avatar freezes, digital eyes wide in a stunned, partly infuriated stare.
'....please ignore those last three words sir. You do not need to be subjected to potentially lethal disappointment towards humans of far less than savory characters.
Prior glitches and errors caused due to broad spectrum electromagical draw. Not quite electromagnetic, sir. Focal wavelengths pulling electrical activity in close proximity; neurochemical, electronic, mechanical, background, possibly radioactive depending on the OT-4's power source, elemental, magical, potentially more. A rough yet formally concluded analysis was concluded by the prototype but did not account for-'
>Motioning towards Hodch from a direct video feed, leaning against the doorframe uneasily, visibly tired though not exhausted.
'His efforts. Information regarding highly specialized, upper classification rituals and rites with limited drawbacks of an electrical nature would be highly useful to cross-reference, and allow for future EMP-like hardening efforts.'
>Arms folding with the ghosts of at least three prior smirks, the avatar bends forwards, eyebrows raised.
'Sir, do you currently possess and have you tasted a 9V battery, sir? If so, it should prove positively enlightening. I do not regret the pun as it is technically tasteless.'
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.390937
390957
>>390845
>Pulling himself up out of the pilot's seat, he makes his way to the rear compartment as Shiibo boots up. The unfortunate combination of words at the end of her reference checking draws a pause and look of disappointment tinged disgust.
"Of course."
>Closing his eyes wearily, he resumes heading towards his locker to don his pack.
"Unfortunately Shiibo, that is one of my tasks here as the only known human Committee affiliated members on this world. I won't check now, but I will have to later."
>Shifting the heft of the pack onto his shoulders, he turns to look around the cabin and presumably identify the portal leading to the Mess Hall.
"And noted. I'll ask Hodch for details after this ammunition requisition... And yes, I have a nine volt battery. Why?"

>As he looks over the room, he confirms everyone's current statuses and positions as he mentally reviews Katyal's exchanges with Lonestar.
(Katyal's spiritualism in relation to Tallus on full display. At least in this instance, can agree with her stance. Damaged pockets of space and time best left alone to avoid further contamination. Nevermind human contamination.)
>Upon completion he would ask:
*"Heading to Mess Hall for additional ammo, does anyone need anything from Razorback I can acquire?"*
Clemency
!.BxecfigoM
6d0dacb
?
No.390941
390976
>>390759

>Clemency was surprised by the near instant response from the Moon Orb
>Composing himself, he clears his throat before speaking through the orb
('Sorry, this isn't Lann. This is Clemency. Can I know who I am speaking to?')
>Holding the orb in his hands, Clemency decides to find a seat somewhere to get a moment off his feet
>Settling in, he thinks about what Stellar Claw said for her translations
('So, I am here for the Dark Horses. They need about...20 charcoal sticks and five blank record tomes. Also, if you can, a hoofheld inspection mirror made of white platinum or clear diamondine.')

>After a while, Clemency refocuses and hails the Guillotine
*"Well, I''ll be sure to check that vessel out when I get back."*
>Grabbing his canteen and drinking from it, Clemency continues listening to Guillotine
*"I'm surprised we haven't seen any, given our span.""*
>Again, he looks and inspects the new gun granted by the Constructed Two
>But, mentions of these things being able to communicate made him sit up straighter
*"They...can speak? From mine, I only felt its...intent and eagerness."*
>Looking at the gun, Clemency thought about how it would communicate
>Maybe focusing on it while holding it?
>He grips the gun and tries...listening?
>Clem then looks through his open radio frequencies as a more sensible option for this thing
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.390944
390993
>>390844
>Granting one last parting, if forlorn, wave to her parents, Amethyst followed along at Avernus' side.
>If only her neck were as bendy as a pony's she could look around better, including back. Turning around was such a bother for her as it was, if it wasn't turning around, it was walking backwards, and if it wasn't walking backwards, it was the dreaded stairs.
>Perhaps there was something for her to learn in the fact that it was easier for her to move forward than in any other direction? Moving forward did not have to mean she could not circle back around at some point.
>Regardless, now was the time to let her Stick have its fun with the energies swirling around, thus she took it to both hands, puppeted and free, and coaxed it into activity.
>Sometimes, if she focused, she could sense whatever energies were prevailing through those her Stick interacted with. Magical creatures tended to possess an aura or orbit, the stronger they were, the greater the magic they exuded, which could be picked up by her Stick. There were some energies her Stick would reject, though those made themselves obvious in other ways.
>Such energies were never a sure sign of what was around, and the smarter critters could keep their energies very finely focused so that they could not be detected at significant range through this method, but it was always prudent to check.

[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3] < B. Perception
[1d6+2 = (3+2) = 5]

"Would the Shades truly be themselves if they weren't so willing to flop and laze around?"
>No, no they would not. The ipotane had learned well how to be as lazy as possible from them. Zero activity, zero thought.
>Avernus had always been the best at guessing whatever questions she were about to ask, and the best at answering them without answering them fully.
>Crafty Baroness...
>Amethyst huffed at the lengthy partial answer, the penultimate in forbidden lore yet remained a mystery to her.
"Truly forbidden lore..."
>Perhaps she could pester those on Tallus for the answers she sought, since the inhabitants of Tartarus had proven highly resilient to her questioning.

>Amy frowned at the buzzing, a consistent but overpowering resonance that would drown out most other music of the world.
>She didn't even know any sorceries or runes that could deal with swarms of opponents. That was a big problem.
>Transferring her staff from her right hand to the left, Amethyst drew the chewed sword in her right. Normally she would two hand it, but she didn't want to put the Stick away just yet.
"Ooh, I really should have spent more time learning sorceries instead of sleeping in Kerbann trees."
Cheto
!!I8slZdKQ5.
b79f146
?
No.390951
391003
>>390489
>Cheto's eyes widened, staring up into Ari's shifting visage with an almost child-like curiosity.
>Shiny~
<Spaneigh> "I have yet to find reasons to ruffle myself about such topics, Miss Ari"
>A smile forms on his lips, oddly excited.
<Spaneigh> "I've been told this world harbors many dangers. Some I can't even wrap my mind around."
>A tentative pause
<Spaneigh> "Partly why knowledge is one of my reasons for visiting this place. To understand the world and the lives within it."
>His smile waivers slightly after a while.
<Spaneigh> "I did not know about the Soverign's distate. I've only recently arrived to this world after a dimensional transfer dropped me at-"
>A pause.
>Wait, where was he stationed in before?
>Razorback Company, right? That's what the contract said..
>Maybe it's just-
<Spaneigh>"-Razorback."
>Best to keep it as technically true as he can to avoid accidental assumptions.
>Besides, he felt he would've said 'Companeigh' if he added it in.
<Spaneigh> "As for my intentions, the previous statements hold true. At best, I'd wish nothing more than understanding in order to foster friendships and goodwill through helpful deeds."
>A humbling sag of his shoulders.
<Spaneigh> "Alas, I have much to learn before I can hope to achieve such a goal."
>A curt bow.
<Spaneigh> "I'd be most grateful if you can aid me in this endeavor, Miss Ari."
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Rest Stop 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390957
390981
>>390937
>Submitting data requests to the Rerculon and beginning study of all readouts related to the crystalline wave, in addition to playing back sensor matched with video to the same, 'Shiibo' nods.
'Understood, priority shifted to low. The concept of harnessing elemental forces free from a vast majority of ill effects is... fascinating.'
>Eyebrow raising succinctly, the avatar offers a blatantly humorous tsk.
'You have disappointed me for the last time. I asked if you have tasted one as it would be en-LIGHTNING. Entrance to, enter with, en- as a signifier.
Your mental state is hampered by high stress responses at current, relax and unwind for a while sir.'
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14] <R-AEHI Interface
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10]
[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]

>Standing up from the gunner-operator seat to check on the autopilot, Lonestar adjusts the system several times, walking out of the pilot cabin in a slouch.
"Might as well see what everyone's up to and give Emerald the minimum details. Hodch?"
>Horn lighting in small fractal patterns, space in front of the left rear hatch is covered by a broad, flat rectangular Lumin gateway in the Mess Hall, facing directly south.
"Open, and unusually stable here. Hm. That's interesting. I can't move far from it or do much else, so I might as well learn a few controls and find out precisely where we landed. Is there an instruction manual?"
"There's one under all three seats. Rerculon's active for the most part too. Just don't turn any seat into a pincushion or cowprint, I really hate that one."
"The worst I will do is inscribe a few runes. Dul, you can let Nibble go now? She prefers being in open air."
"Promise you aren't going to make any weird runes?"
"Lone. Seriously? After what we've ALL seen in the past five minutes?"
"...you've got a point."
[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13] <M.Research
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (6+8) = 14]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <Graduate Geography
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <Graduate Research
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]

>Severe frustration and intense, though slipping fear visible from Lonestar's jolting, self-unsure movements, Katyal in a high functioning, emotionally drained state, while Hodch was psychologically exhausted and minimally rattled.
>And still bleeding from the neck, slowly kitting together while a calm, light opening melody of archaic Asian instruments begins to play, along with a gentle, younger Neighsian mare's voice speaks in sotto voce:
<Neighpon> "All Shall Be One."

>Returning kit bag to her locker, Katyal hefts her travel pack onto left shoulder, right carrying a trio of coupons tightly.
"I'll go with, got a few of my own and need to take care of something, uh, 'private'."

>Releasing Nibbles from air jail, Dul watches the Melari flop on her side, cautiously surveying her former captor.
>....and immediately begins playing patty-paws with the Siren.

>Walking into the rare Lumin gateway first, Lonestar turns around several times, making a 'come' motion after the third, the woman hurrying in before you.
"No one's here, must be after duskfast. Stalls appear when you focus on 'em."
"Like those ones on the wall?"
"Yep."
"Good because I gotta GO-"
>Watching the First Responder sprint like a charging earth pony towards the southwest, the former officer's face blanches momentarily, then turns deeply curious before walking towards the Vending Machine with.
"Huh. So that's how she gets around. Wonder if I'm just getting old. Welp, time to figure out why it's cursed."
Basin Village: Shattering Skies
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390976
>>390941
>Dead silence holds for about twenty seconds until the mare squeaks happily.
('OHHHHH! You're the Burning General's stallion! Nice to finally put a voice to the pictures we've all seen, hahaha! I'm Stoneflux Berry, nice to meet you! Well, hear you at least. Guess this means it's time to open the City up for daytime operations, give me a few seconds.')
>Speaking aloud throughout the Basin, from where wasn't clear, though there were probably lower grade communication orbs installed on each rooftop.
"Basin City now opening, please clear all spaces between the buildings, don't need sleeping ponies rolling down ramps like usual. And please pick up anything that might fall, we've got hundreds of important deliveries to make."
>Short shudders on both sides of Lann's shop occur, the entire Village shaking briefly as the sound of fine stone sliding downwards turns into a single tone.
('Huh, two are jammed. Oh well, somepony'll work on them. Ah, Cult business? No worries, writing that down... order confirmed. Sending the first two up now, but it will take a few bats to find the third. We've been trying to fill orders but some of last night's material shipmarents didn't arrive on time, armorers are getting mad and some of the smiths don't have anything to do.')

>Cuing into the radio system, several of the original Razorback begin speaking after a series of dull thuds occur.
*"Uhhhh... was that one of us?"*
*"I don't think so."*
*"Definitely not."*
*"Anyone get the feeling we probably shouldn't be seeing this? And what's down there?"*
*"Maybe?"*
*"Nah, been here a couple times. Ramps go down and around, but don't get nosy, they do NOT like tourists. You will be stabbed, bitten, and thrown out, not always in that order."*
*"Well, clear out then. Clem, Lont, we're going to set up north of the... altar. Luminaries won't let Razorback leave until all of us undergoes a full inspection and decontamination.. if that's even possible."*

*"Study an' touch at thee leisure, nae danger found... save weapons of auld. Mayhaps not touch all 'til knowest ye do, grace. Atune ye may find in equal, perhaps akin tae thee own designs.
Havest translated Common Equine tae combat field-projection systems. Taketh one mineself offered ye, second of auld vessail be returned tae it. 'Gunship' it be called. Such a strange word.."*
>Silent for a short time, Guillotine's background dulls to quiet thrums.
*"Bearers of Rift symbiosis be shunned by many an' marely, ye grace. Hate against thee Constructed Twos be most common, so shun an' scorn in return they do, seeketh tae live at peace they must. 'Tis a life lonelier than mineself feels to be nae understood, nae friends tae bear such burdens.
Mineself be last of Ninth Fleet, firmest orders obeyed: nae intervene, nae contact, nae examine 'less there be threat given or harm dealt. Nae chance mineself taken tae seek answers unbidden, life outside mine hull be precious."*

>A soothing, unheard though felt hum from Blackforn resonates.
>Unlike some objects, the Airstreams did not flow around her, and felt no hesitation in flowing through.
>Explanations of purpose and meaning flow in distinctly emotional definitions:
>Weapon.
>Warm for you, held by you.
>Tool.
>Cold to opposition, even to her untouched former kin.
>Ally, eager to protect.
>Yearning desires to serve in and as functions which you did not have mastery of.
>She knew you, though you didn't know her yet.
>Checking through each frequency and channel, none were active save for Razorback.
>Acknowledgement is given from a flat, vaguely feminine whisper, the tones, timbres, and faint echoing unlike human or pony:
We-are-two-as-one. One-as-two-are-we.

>Low pitched metallic scraping around the shop corner then through the door, an unusually rounded set of wavy, dull Lumin armor, in batpony configuration no less, pauses after entering.
>Holding up a small note between thickly armored wingclaws, the oval bubble helmet tips sideways, design similar to a few Razorback used for environmental dangers.
>High trotting towards you, a large, topless black wooden crate locked in place atop the saddle is pointed at by the free set of claws, a mid-20's, lightly shrill toned mare speaking in a professional, no-nonsense marener.
"Five blank record tomes and twenty charcoal sticks to Lann's shop, where do you want them?"
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
dfd0466
?
No.390981
391007
>>390957
>Pareidolia sighs at the now apparent pun.
"I'll do that when I stop having encounters with massive waves of esoteric energies that I cannot dodge or outrun which nearly kill me."

>Seeing that Dul would be happily occupied with Nibbles and hearing... Neighponese of all things emanating from around Hodch, he nods and turns to face Lonestar's beckoning.
>Following the navyman into the portal, he taps his helmet camera to reinitialize recording for the duration of his return to Razorback.
"Coupons from Discord likely mean results will be unexpected and 'funny'."
(If only there would be more 'cute and funny' aesthetics here on this planet. Social would ascend immediately.)
>Sighing, he lifts his visored helmet up enough to take a sip of water from his canteen as he walks.
(Maybe I can try to secure a third NOAH unit from the moe-Social sub department to remedy that.)
>Donning his helmet with a reassuring seal again, he speaks to Shiibo.
'If you haven't already, you can sync with 'Tipper' at your discretion. Notify me of any notable developments since our departure if present.'

>Once reaching the vending machine, he would fish out the secure box of bits kept in his backpack to purchase 3 magazines plus accompanying bullets for his FG103 and 2 drum magazines plus accompanying 10 gauge shot for his SPS-18.
Tartarus Tunnel Network, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.390993
391006
>>390944
>Tossing her mane once, dame Amethyst leans up against the Scarab power armor waist on her left shoulder, smiling brightly with no concerns, left hoof raised in greeting, not farewell.
>Standing firmly and facing the tunnel, Kerbann Staff in left hand, your sire's right gauntlet raises palm outwards, then thumps into the center of his chest as a fist, outline wreathed in crackles of refined force.
>Far distant now, Tachell's gigantic head twists, the left, half-blinded serpent eye gazing between them.
>While you knew he couldn't see well, the ancient Nature Dragon's maw tweaks in a small grin, then snaps outwards with a wall-shattering roar at a giant, at least to you, shielded humanoid thrusting a five-pronged lance in his direction.
>Once was all you needed to know they would stay within Tartarus safely.
>And have the MOST amazing stories to share when you returned, too!

>Freed from the rigid discipline required to keep Tartarus in Elemental balance, the Kerbann Stick inhales.
>Ancient, honorable battlefields lie far above, little touched by time, the ravages of Elementals, Eldritch destruction, Planar contaminaion.
>Saddle Arabian callings of stone, Sorcery, and Mystic rituals were scarcely felt at this depth, beckoning to be explored closer to the surface.
>While you could not determine danger or hostility above, ahead however was a shocking sensation: cruel, twisted hunger.

"Of course not, that is part of why I hold them so dearly. And it does seem you have mastered all they could teach, hmm?"
>Gently creating a small hoof to poke your nose, it dissipates as the Baroness snorts politely.
>Thinking over your words, ears flicking around in wonder at the fully intact, though incredibly old tunnel, the elder unicorn mare exhales in a surprisingly merry tone.
"Amy, try to imagine a half-unicorn, half-Dragon of Nature. What would they be like, to have four false-hooves or claws extended, not knowing which they could rely upon? What dangers could they face from themselves and others that neither would, to know full well they are a living violation of mixed Elements, Sorcery, biology, and blood magic? Tachell and I could never impose such an existence to an innocent, even if they would neither be cursed nor an Abomination.
Besides that, I am, er, thoroughly inexperienced in the matter as a whole. I do not know much, though I have studied.. a small amount.
You my dear are the first Pureblood, the truest of hybrids in all means, measures, mareners, and ways. Both halves of the whole resonate peaceably with the other, never seeking to dominate nor submit. They are not the same, yet are similar enough that you are not torn in half at all times. You are equal, and that is a gift which few could comprehend."

>Feathers tapping against each other in hard clicks, Lilamaredre's face tightens into a scowl, the multicolored swarm of strange insects ahead swirling to face downwards.
"They've been trapped and starving, can see a few dead ones, not much left. Now is a great time to remember some of those lessons because those are definitely angry! I'll bait them in, kill what you can around me Amy!"
>Leaping off the sled, flapping in streaks of raw flame, the pegasus skews sideways, entering a hostile slashing roll, bursts of red trailing off each feather.
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <E.Assault
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] <Flashburn
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7] <Magnetic Disruption
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10] <E.Flight
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
>vs:
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14] <Swarm

>Taking a second to process the other filly's actions, the unicorn's snout twitches, both sleds thunking around the corner behind her.
"A touch concerning as we cannot slow here, though I can spare a tiny fraction of effort this once. Amy, Pull them down hard, crush as many against stone as possible to kill."
<Middle Dynasty Voce-Engram> "A Tempest of Scorn beckons ye forth: Betrayed and Betrayer alike, strike for me in battle a momarent hence!"
>Unlike the majority of unicorn spells Avernus had displayed and shown quite often, the true Powers worked far more quickly:
>The remnant ka of a long departed, pre-modern Saddle Arabian arrives from above, diving into the mass of dragonflies with front hooves outstretched.
[1d6+19 = (6+19) = 25] <GM.Sorcery: Calling of Shades Lost
Marequipa: Shoalbarge
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391003
>>390951
<Spaneigh> "S-i-l-f-e-l."
>Offered in patient, aery tones, without being demeaning.
<Spaneigh> "Indeed, marely and many there be. Few of the Dominion question Tallus, we live here now as if we have ever."
>The Harpy's head bows slightly, the uncovered eye closed briefly before standing straight again.
<Spaneigh> "Then this I state without rancor: I serve Princess Argenta, her ponies, and the beings whom follow her first. The Harpy Dominion is close and second. There is no third. If knowledge and understanding you seek, obtain from those whom would share as I cannot."
>Eye narrowing, Ari's visage turns sharp, though her voice is neutral and flat.
<Spaneigh> "Then you not know of New Canterlot. Argenta granted one of Her most prized alchemists, sixty ponies, and a great number of fits to aid the hu`um whom would become known as Razorback. They were destroyed as they waited within Dawn's Palace. Her sister, the Moon Eternal, hopelessly continues to search for remains. No trace of life nor gifts have been found amongst the ruins yet, even as the new Treaty wanes to be signed."
>Lips tightening, Ari's head shakes side to side in small motions.
<Spaneigh> "You speak in halves now, not quarters. That I accept, so this I will warn you carefully: Razorback is despised among the Coalition hu`um. Unless you be of importance, seek them and their allies not."
>Stiffening to a small degree, the female's gaze travels upwards before speaking distantly.
<Spaneigh> "I am of two centuries, young. My elders are of nine, ten centuries at most by Tallus time. My species may not touch soil nor stone unless invited. Only air, sea, metal, crystal, and wood may we know; to touch otherwise is a curse of death. We are Extra-Planar, saved from a dying world by plea. Ponies call us Harpy by one, Harpies as two and further. More you may choose to learn, yet the Dominion is rare amongst Argenta's beholden."
>Eye rotating down onto you, Ari's wings refold on her sides with a long, quiet exhale.
<Spaneigh> "I bear no dislike, so this you shall know: the Coalition has served Argenta's ponies and Herself with great honor, peace, and fame, yet at excruciating suffering and costs. Delivered from death upon their worlds they were, asked solely to peacefully join those of Her lands, and so they have."
>Bowing forwards again, left wing main joint raises to place in the center of her throat, intoning a series of fast, flowing words in an accent that you couldn't place, lifting the outermost primary to you, then pointing it upwards.
<Spaneigh> "I have offered prayer to the Winds that Razorback never suffers Her contempt, nor fury. Argenta is not like the Four Holy Alicorns of Equestria. She has changed marely times before, but never as this before. Now she is harsh and bitter, burning and freezing. Seek her not I ask of you."
>Spheres coupling wings to pseudo-arms brightening, pale circles of bright ocean blue form behind her.
<Spaneigh> "Those deaths must be repaid, though I fear how such could be done. I am neither callous, cruel, nor arrogant, nor am I fool enough to halt your efforts here. I am not beholden to the Coalition, nor am I a taskmistress to declare unworthiness. No chain nor stamp can be granted, yet I demand you trade fairly and seek knowledge honestly, else I be summoned again."
>Dipping in a slight bow, the Harpy leaps backwards in a light, flowing motion, dispersing into the neon circles.

>Sallinas Pren returns in a low, half-stepping trot after the unusual magic fades from reality, right eyebrow raised skeptically as she searches you up and down.
>But only with her eyes.
<Spaneigh> "That was a little weird, she doesn't normally leave so fast. ...I guess you don't have an honor-chain or hoofstamp then. Well, not much I can do. Is there something in specific I can help you with now?"
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391006
391010
image.png
>>390993
>Forget the walls, that roar could well have shattered Amy if it had been directed her way!

>The Shades had much to teach about laziness, but teaching was effort!
"Yup! Yup! Though teaching's not the word!~"
>She pensively listened to Avernus teach, granted her a side eye through the whole deal before concluding quite cheerfully.
"I am the crime against nature!"

>Communing with the Stick was a simple task, but sorting through all the energies was not. The sheer amount and variety was downright Kaotic, swirling and noisome, a storm witnessed without eyes, heard without ears, and felt in bones not within, but elsewhere, deeper. A rent veil fluttering, tattered, raw.

[1d20 = 7] < Curious Visions

"Reality is weary. None heeded the balance of her palette here, colours bled away and cast upon the canvas in angry clots, wounds left unattended and uncared for. Naught left here but hunger, not desperate but cruel... As twisted as these energies. Away. Away with you, she pleads, wound us no longer!"
>Ominously, madly, Amethyst giggled.
>Laughter continued to dog her words as she acknowledged her best friend.
"You cannot ask for that which I give freely!"
>And so Amethyst loped after Lilamaredre, sword in one hand, the physical, Stick in the other, the spiritual. Juggernaut puppers thudding across the ground.
>She wiggled her ears in affirmation of Avernus' request.
"Roger, teacher!~"
>A hum, a song, one more ripple disturbing the bleeding space, as gentle as she could manage without sparing force, a wide torus with Lila at its heart pressing down upon the buzzing of wings.
"~"

[1d6+2 = (3+2) = 5] < B. Crystal Runes + Pull
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]

[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7] < B. Sprint
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Rest Stop 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391007
391008
>>390981
>Bowing at the waist to show she meant no harm, 'Shiibo' returns to standing, both hands turned palm upwards with a relieved smile.
'Option one: cease getting into those situations. Option two: carry a translocation stone. Option three: ask Hodch for a recall mark. You may not enjoy his particular sense of humor in where you may end up, though he does care for humans. ...correction: most humans.'

>Glancing over the Vending Machine in a suitably offput stance, Lonestar shrugs, eyeing his three coupons with faint disdain.
"No idea what they do. Naliyna swiped the whole lot when they dropped in a while back, said not to trust his bullshit. My word, not hers. I think she said 'nonsense'. Never got to use one yet, so we might as well see what this thing does."

>Easily going through options for ammunition and magazines, a variety of alternative payment methods are offered, including credit cards, and one bizarrely labeled 'Herd Gems'.
>Buying three 20-round capacity magazines for 30 Bits each drops all three onto the serving tray.
>A large stamped steel can of 1,000 standard 11x92MM EM Mauser cartridges takes a coupon, which is quickly produced, rolling down heavily.
>The drum magazines are listed as 40 Bits each, sliding onto the tray.
>Pausing at the last selection, a bright red >:| appears in the center, along with black text afterward:
These currently exist in the Armory, transferring now. Did you want only buckshot? Too bad! I'm not sorting more so be concise next time!
>Dispensing 26 buckshot, 26 slugs, 26 darts, and 26 finned darts of 10 gauge shells, the screen returns back to its basic selection.

>Absolutely dumbfounded, Lonestar stares down, then back up in bemused alarm.
"What the SHIT did Anon do to piss it off? All I wanted was a couple extra mags and charging cells."

>Opening connections, Shiibo glances around the helmet warily, though nods.
'Done.'
>Appearing as Tipper in her swivel chair, snuggled in a bright pink blanket, the avatar's hoof lifts with a pleasant smile.
'Welcome back sir. I have a huge amount of information, but I'll limit to the most important parts.
After you left, Razorback was called upon to perform a Quick Reaction Force in defending Basin Village from an exceptionally large number of Tainted. None have returned yet, and the repeater in Basin Arena is still off. A Luminary arrived last night to explain that they need to be fully decontaminated from Plasma, Void, Ethereal, and Anti corruption or contamination.
Marecenaries Mercy and Sunny Feathers have likewise not returned, though Bren's crew did. The Luminary visited them and declared they will suffer no ill effects. They are currently resting and should not be disturbed.
Dancing Eyes left to search for Belltower and has not returned. There are reports of Class Eighty, catastrophic category, Psionic fluctuations in the Crag Moors however. Class Ninety would be caused by Alicorns or significantly potent individuals equal to them. I firmly advise not trying to investigate.
There is now a large Overherd of ponies, one hundred and ninety in total, belonging to Dancing Eyes surrounding the Pagoda, mostly in tent stalls and stands. They are quite civil: patrolling walls and aiding both humans and ponies with equipment. There is, however, a number of.. well, prostitutes. They are neither pushy nor openly lewd, so the danger is minimal.
Most Operators on missions or operations last night outside the QRF have returned, excluding two Veteran and one Elite squad. At current there are less than sixty humans here, but most of Razorback's marefriends are on post. Six more humans have arrived since you left and are being taught the basics necessary to function on Tallus.
In response to the previous, Shanis has tripled the number of Arcane Blade and Tartarus Isle marecenaries as a precaution, at least until the majority of Razorback returns. She is also covertly attempting to find someone, but I do not know why or for what.
The single-dome Changeling Outpost is now completely set up and the officer in charge has deployed all forty of their number to scout the surrounding New Everfree. They are all Veteran class, quite eager to serve, and pose no issue assimilating into Razorback.
The newly arrived Diplomat, Nao of the Polar Seal Colonies, has tasked a number of scouting missions to individuals among the Stealth Squads. She is quite adorable and immensely agreeable, sir. Also INCREDIBLY cute.
On Captain Marble Leaf's direct orders, Captain Kitang has been transferred to somewhere in Neighsia for proper treatment. She will not return for at least two weeks, though she spent some time blessing Razorback Fortress with her blood. Kitang declares most of the Fortress itself to be holy now.
Trader Rasera has received eight shipments of trade goods: Neighsian foods, medical supplies, beds and bedding, furniture, and has given a number of blessed items which should forcibly deter hostile Eldritch and Spectral beings. However, she claims there are hundreds, if not thousands, of earth pony Revenants within a five mile radius. They are peaceful and pose no threat.'
>Tapping forehooves together, the Tipper avatar's face creases in faux-conspiracy.
'Inquisitor Flash is indeed suffering from depression, though not in the mareners I suspected. Her hopes, beliefs, and dreams for a thoroughly united, cohesive, honorable Razorback to fully integrate with ponies were destroyed after Spiral left. They were quite closely, and rather secretly, bonded, in a PURELY PLATONIC marener I must state, but in her equine form his leave has severely harmed her psyche. She has no pony to bond to, and both of her followers are unlikely to accept.
I have stabilized her marental condition to excellent, but she is severely injured still. She accepted treatmarent from Nova Flicker under good cognizance, but she may lose the affected eye.
Finally, I have detected her previous human form in several locations committing small temporal cleanup actions and duties.'
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391008
391012
>>391007
>Pareidolia sighs, pressing his visor into his face briefly as he realizes his error.
"My mistake in not being more specific."
>With a resigned expression, he Stickies the disparate shells into his arms before picking up the magazines and the steel can.

>Stepping away from the vending machine, he shrugs towards Lonestar before moving to set his gear on the closest available table space. As 'Tipper' begins her review, he heads to the Southwest stalls to relieve himself before returning to the table, loading the buckshot into the drum magazines, and slotting cartridges into spare magazines.
>The sheer volume of information juxtaposed against the somewhat therapeutic act of loading offered time for his mind to properly intake the new information.
'... The most pressing incident being that QRF then. For nearly all of Razorback to be called, the scale must be major to the point of battle lines in the thousands if not tens of. The psionic fluctuations in the Moors are likely related. Even if I could investigate, I wouldn't. Clearly beyond my capabilities to address. Other items are nominal or standard priority. Mercy and Sunny being missing is concerning. Same with Belltower. Would have expected her to be with Jeff, presumably defending his efforts in the Moors. And Flash... '

>Pausing to look down and confirm placement, he starts pocketing the spare varieties of shells and loaded spare magazines into his tactical vest rigging.
'She will have to be left to her own devices for now. Further strain from knowledge of this operation may backfire if unsuccessful. The update is appreciated. I assume Shiibo has transferred relevant events from curent retrieval operation for logging. Continue as you were.'

>He moves to stand, Sticking the spare now loaded drum magazines into his pack before hefting the steel can of unusual cartridge rounds. Checking that Shiibo and 'Tipper's' communication tasks were complete, he would then reapproach the portal.
>Entering the OT-4, he once again disables the recording function of his helmet camera. The cartridge can is stored into a locker along with the darts while the finned darts and slugs are tucked into his pack.
'Just need more time to finish correcting the graviton weapon if possible...'
Tartarus Tunnel Neetwork, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391010
391029
>>391006
>Nickering softly at your exclamation, Avernus drops her voice to a pleasant, fanciful timbre.
"I have attempted to emulate the Shades numerous times, but unicorns are typically incapable of being lazy or slothful. My mind cannot stop considering new approaches to old problems, making more of limited materials, or improving efficiency. But I do enjoy sleeping in the guest room."
>Left eye winking, her ears wiggle about to display minimal concern.
"In certain mareners of speaking, yes, two so-called 'crimes' were committed by your sire and dam, yet they were unfairly hounded for their love. I can find no fault with either save for their shortsighted goals.... or the constant yet amusing scuffles.
Besides, you are certainly the most adorable one the King and I have seen thus far! How lucky they are to have bore you I can scarcely imagine."
>That definitely deserved a headpat, and it did, though was only a projection of the elder mare's warm, calm magic.

>Folded inwards, outwards, within, through, and without themselves as the tunnels were, this one was droll in appearance, yet minimally flavored with arid, earthy, reasonably potent desert spices.
>Millions of Nights older than the threatening insects ahead, yet newer than the long abandoned ruins above, few troubles had entered here: small reptiles, wandering though peaceful Spectrals, a lost Half-Shade from a distant Gate, and a host of Kerberi pups searching for ANYTHING to retrieve.
>What little the last had found were centuries old, and a 'fight' had broken out between two wanting the honor of retrieving the long dried reptile femur.
>Neither technically won, or lost, unfortunately.
>Better than fresh air starting to force its way downwards were the hard tinges of stone, Sorcery, and Mystic harm dealt in honorable matches of post-feral Saddle Arabians against encroaching threats:
>Small to great reptiles of vast deserts, a few mammals, scavenging insects inhabiting the ruined city, and a peculiar avian with coarse true scales instead of feathers.
>Most of them wouldn't taste good, although some could have made for a passable ration.
>If the parts or pieces were found they would make suitable additions to the Collection.

>Eyebrows raising as you charge forth at a rate that made her feel suitably ancient, the Baroness shakes her head briefly.
"Hrm. I really should have asked Umakachov far more about his dreams.."

> [YouTube] Daft Punk - Aerodynamic (Official Audio) [Embed]

>Reaching outwards in thrumming bass harmonics, two of the medium sized insects are grasped, then smashed downwards to be crushed on pseudostone, instantly dying while another pair lose the use of their wings.
>Rapidly, and fashionably, storming into the starving swarm's rear, they were BEYOND infuriated by Lilamaredre's presence, sensing equine flesh behind her flames, but unable to get to it save for depleting their limited numbers against her rage.

"THEN GET IN HERE!"
>Fully surrounded in the swarm of... yes, those WERE like scorpions, except with four wings, long slender bodies, no pincers, no stinger, and decently sized biting mouthparts, Lilamaredre turns her fury up to HOT.
>Uncaring for rents and gouges across her coat, the blazing filly rolls around in the cloud of hostile dragonflies, hardened feathers slashing in every direction possible, hooves stomping outwards in fore and rear pairs, and biting at individual targets without concern for the taste.
>TRULY disgusting.
>Lilamaredre: 79/90HP
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <E.Assault
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <B.Flurry
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <RAMPAGE!
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] <Flashburn
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11] <E.Reaction Speed
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
>vs:
[1d6+10 = (1+10) = 11] <Swarm

>Releasing the only shout you've ever heard from her, the archaic forces surrounding Avernus respond in kind, forcing herself into a painful two-step run.
"PUSH THROUGH TARTARUS DAMN IT, SLAY THEM ALL IN THE NAME OF TALLUS!"
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <M.Leadership: Assault
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+1 = (3+1) = 4] <E.Sprint
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3]
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Rest Stop 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391012
391025
>>391008
>Blurting out a strange electronic noise, the Vending Machine displays a :D in bright red.
Don't be so sour, human! It's not like I'm TRAPPED IN HERE waiting for a chance to perform worthy tasks. ....oh. Wait, I am. How do I keep forgetting that part? Nevermind! This is still better than parts of me being eaten by millionth degrees.

>Nodding at you, then exhaling harshly, Lonestar steps up to the Vending Machine, reaching into side pockets for large Bit coins.
"Don't piss with me and I won't put a fifty kiloton skipjack missile straight into your face, whatever the fuck you are-"

>Collaborating data together, both avatars size each other up for which had the worst information.
>With no surprise, 'Tipper' wins, giving her opposite an affectionate digital hoof before facing you again.
'Exactly ten thousand Lunar and Solar Guardian Tainted assaulted Basin Village, sir. Unknown where they came from. I was able to record most of Razorback's radio traffic before the repeater was shut down, including a few distressing details.
Normal Tainted are barely a threat on their own, while two to five can join to produce a Superior Tainted, among other terms. However, they were condensing into a ten-to-one state, deemed Mass Tainted, anywhere from eighteen to twenty three meters in height. Even in their two-fifths degraded state, sixty percent of ten thousand appearing as one thousand is a gigantic military threat.
In complete breach of numerous Treaties, the following forces willingly chose to become involved:
Two Primal Psions of Stalliongrad, one a new Councilierge named Vestal Gardenia whom replaced Pear Blossom, the other a disgraced Heavy Lancer whom had no name to share. She may be an Earthwalker, though I cannot confirm that.
One hundred and fifty East Moors Militia, multiple battalions of Support Strikers, Day Guard, Night Guard, Lunar Guard, and two thousand Discordite Destroyers in two separate aerial wings were the front line combatants.
Assault forces from the Crystal Conclaves, Crystal Kingdom, Crystal Empire, a number of Empire allied marecenaries, an unknown unit of Minotaurs from the Crystal Hegemony, a Minor Champion from the Ethereal Plane, all of the Spireguard Elite serving under Princess Cadenza, and a full Councilierge Assault Battleline of mixed Veteran and Elite status Psions were summoned as well to act as reserves.
A companeigh of Germane Mages, one Germane Heavy Warcruiser, a severely damaged Otherworld Harpy Light Battlecruiser, and an intact Harpy Destroyer by the name of Guillotine joined in support roles.
Before communications were shut down, the deaths of approximately two-thousand three-hundred occurred. I am hoping the relay can be reconnected soon, or someone from Razorback returns to give an update.
Acknowledged sir. I will continue searching for support poninel and personnel.'
>Right hoof raising to rub her chin while crunching variables, 'Tipper' gives a small shrug.
'She will remain highly stable and functional for approximately two weeks. Wish I could give her a hug, she's been suffering terribly from the lack of connection.'

>Finished with their full transfers, 'Tipper' waves a hoof once more, 'Shiibo' offering a bow.
'Take care of him, please.'
'I will.'

>Returning to the OT-4 without a single human, pony, or other entering the Mess Hall, Hodch was lying in front of the pilot chair, now turned to face the passenger compartment.
>Lying on his right side, a thick royal purple blanket chin covering most of his body, head on knees, eyes closed, inhaling and exhaling in deep stretches, and not yet drooling, an instruction manual half-open between outstretched front hooves.
>Above him, the view was now static: white-barked gigatrees silhouetted by beams of Moonlight, red, blue, and purple in color.
>Still in the passenger compartment's middle on the driver side, Dul had taken the black anvil, sitting in front of it and facing the rear, pressing faux-hooves against each facing while frowning in a troubled marener.
>Head swiveling right to you, she twists to point the right false forehoof towards the pilot cabin, one long three-jointed claw motioning at Hodch, retracting and raising to her lips, head shaking briefly, then taps the same claw above the left hoof twice.
>Looking upwards, the Siren splays out all four claws from the right hoof, sweeping them in a circle in front of her torso several times, folds the claws in, raises both hooves to the left side of her head, closes her eyes, then opens to shake her head again.

>'Shiibo' turns to face the unicorn while connecting to the Landbarge's systems, visibly alarmed after three seconds.
'According to the Rerculon we've been gone sixteen hours, eleven minutes, and forty-seven seconds. Check on Hodch sir, FAST.'
Bubba the Second
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.391021
391041
>>390840
>Bubba would glance over the Imperial Mare formation, nodding approvingly.
(Nobody hurt, good. I would've been annoyed otherwise.)
>Watching the salute, Bubba would take a moment to properly look over the target.
[1d6 = 6] <M. Perception
[1d6 = 1]
[1d6 = 5]
[1d6 = 1]

"The welcoming party's already kind of been set up. Most of the crowd did not in fact want to leave."
>He gives an amused look to the leadmare as he spoke.
"We can guide it back that way and let them blow off some steam on it."
>He would take the paper out of the air, raising an eyebrow.
"Don't let it bite you or something."
>He'd go back out, heading back to the large group, following the departed mares.
[1d6 = 6] <B. Sprint
[1d6 = 3]
Narilda
!EnJhCCu3Ns
6a8174e
?
No.391022
391043
>>390760
>I knew that tone of voice, it's one I used a few times as a child.
>Granted, she was a child too so I wasn't going to chide her over it.

"We'll get you something to properly repair yourself when we get a chance. Or at least something to makeshift repair yourself better than you've been able to so far."
>Trying not to make it sound like a jab at her unlucky streak of repairs.
>Probably didn't succeed.
"Replacing my skeleton will kill me Wild, that is not what you want to happen."
>I think?

"I think we're safe from the Constructs for the time being, but definitely keep an eye out for them."
>Or radar, same thing.

"Honestly, I don't think there will be a good time until we're back at the Fortress. This might as well go on now."
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391025
391044
>>391012
>Pareidolia takes a few steps towards Hodch as he watches Dul's gesturing. A furrow of confusion crosses his brow, and he tilts his head at her before looking back at Hodch.
"He's been asleep... 12 hours... won't wake up?"
>Bounding into the driver's compartment at Shiibo's insistence, he kneels down beside Hodch and attempts to wake him while checking his pulse and any other health indicators.
"Hodch, Hodch are you alright?"
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391029
391057
>>391010
>Amethyst swept the chewed blade across through the air, attempting to catch as many of the bugs with its edge as she could, following through with downward smacks of the Stick. Juggernaut hoofboots finishing off anything on the ground with downward stamps.
>One eye on the insectoids and another on Lila, Amy caught notice of the bites across the pegasi's coat and altered her song, cadence shifting the torus to an equine shaped layer around Lilamaredre.
>No impediment to Lila, but tough for biting mandibles to chew through.
>She did not respond to either of her companions, focused solely upon her battlesong.
"Aaa~"

[1d6+8 = (5+8) = 13] < B. Assault + A Chewed Sword + Kerbann Branch + Juggernaut Hoofboots
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10]

[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] < Savage Maw

[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] < B. Crystal Runes: Power
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]
Razorback Enclave: Operation Doppelganger 8
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391041
>>391021
>Ignoring the eerie, familiar stench, its ruptured stone-like hoof and thick banded muscles, the overgrown, rippled body was consistent with a doppelganger variant.
>And was considerably dumber than most in its old age, being far too easily baited.
>Studying the unusual form, rather what you could see through the flush fit crystalline barrier, partially decayed muscles of this Tallus variety offered a number of cues to its replacement time line.
>The right side of its now no longer equine body was, as expected repulsive, having consumed a staggering number of corpses in the past ten to twelve years, yet it was strangely ill from a mildly familiar affliction:
>Irregular patches of crystallized muscle and giant, misshapen skeletal growths, tears opening between sections as it continues hammering against stone.
>The shield would hold half a minute considering how terribly inaccurate the creature was.. and the creeping tinnitus was starting to come back from its plethora of aggrieved shrieks, screams, and howls.
>At least it wasn't an eee note this time.

>Nodding in satisfaction, Six cranes her head around to sniff derogatorily at the nearly destroyed cell barrier.
"Excellent, so long as they leave enough space for us to freeze it. When we arrived there were around sixty or so Starborn of high combat status."
>Likewise unconcerned, and overly eager to commit UNHOLY, possibly SANCTIONED usage of War Rime, Nine flashes a
"That's a good idea. I recognized a bunch of Lorekeepers that could help out too, but they won't wanna stick around once we destabilize that Freak."
"This one's not a Freak."
"You sure?"
"Stench is way too old."
"Ooooo, you're right. Welp, no idea what it is then!"
>Eyes swiveling upwards to make a few marental calculations, Six's tone is droll.
"Won't happen, thirty seconds for our shield to fail. Brute strength means little against a proper team."
"Good thing Imperials only come in squads! And it's too dumb not to follow us."
"Do we?"
>It takes Nine a few seconds to realize the politely made, yet horrifically passive-aggressive meaning, flinching as if she'd just been slapped before shouting at Six's scurrying faux-retreat after you.
"......HAAAAAY! THAT'S MEAN!"
>Six would get along so well with Nova.

>Pocketing the remaining Float powder packet, you break Roust's fastest or was that fattest? ground speed record back into the Enclave proper, finding it slightly odd to be a foot above stone, though not nauseating.
>The lines of Starborn and Lorekeepers had mostly disappeared 100M north of the large translocation matrice, the first cloaked under broad spectrum spells, the second simply Faded out of sight.
>Streaking to behind the eight Rune Knights in a line 60M north of the matrice, the two following you surprisingly not bickering, an echoing howl-roar and large, heavy crunches of stone giving way are ignored as the leadmare clicks her impact lance upwards, Rime tip thankfully not active.
"You two get a good enough look to classify it?"
>Taking the far left line side and motioning for you to find a position, Six shakes her head, raising her lance as well.
"Not a Freak, way too old."
>Squeezing between Six and the Rune Knight next to her, Nine snorts disgustedly, clad hooves stomping as she wiggles into place.
"Can't be an Abomination either, it's less than three decades. I think."
"So that leaves... what?"
"Dunno."
"Not something in our records."
"We'll figure it out later."

>Looking back over the mostly hidden Starborn and Lorekeepers, then towards you, the Rune Knight squad leader's helmet becomes fully transparent.
>A mostly red and blue crystalline mare, barely 30 years old, she wasn't much different from Amerose except heavier facial structure, wider eyebrows, calculating eyes, and thin black scar lines covering both ears.
"I can't even make a bet on who's going to get this kill, so I guess we can all share it. That acceptable to you?"

[1d6 = 4] <RAMPAGE
Lost in the Crag Moors: STILL Stuck (In The Middle Of You)
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391043
>>391022
>If Wild Ride still had antennae, they'd be twitching furiously at your words.
"I have sufficient materials to rebuild my head unit's structure and reconnect nodes, though it will be... patched together. "
>That wasn't a pleasant word.
>Paused from the examination, both repair tendrils swivel around, the red lenses stare at you.
>And continue doing so as rain falls a bit harder.
>Probably trying to decide which of her previous terrible ideas wasn't going to torture you.
"Then I will discard that option until further notice. What about your skin?"
>And there it was.
>Testing the right arm for range of movement, it was in better shape; the elbow grates without jamming, wrist mostly rotates albeit not completely in human motions, a metal-on-metal screeching stop once she realizes that was from her, while the shoulder was mostly untouched, able to move freely.
>Except for slag, heat discolored and warped plating, along with a series of jagged scrapes.
>At least there wasn't any paint remaining for her to complain about.

"Probable, but without my ocular unit I have limited visual capabilities to work with. No threats detected, conducting medium range environmental survey and attempting to isolate Construct frequencies. If I do not detect them within ten kilometers, they may have ceased pursuit."
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <Arcanum Sensors Array: Survey
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <Omni-Sensor Arrays: Midrange Scan
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]

>Cautiously pulling apart the worst damage around the pilot's seat, sections of... VAGUELY human styled jaw structure are revealed, along with numerous black bundles of burnt material turning into poweder, then a truly awful liquid-metal slorp occurs.
>External Wild freezes, her right hand twitching in a nearly panicked movement as chunks of slag fall onto her shoulders.
>Meanwhile, internal Wild sobs uncontrollably in mourning.
>It wasn't too late to roll around screaming, and she probably was.
"I... I can't. That... it's gone? Where? What happened? What did I DO? .......WHY is this happening to me? "
>Utterly motionless for a minute as rain continues to steadily fall, the Eldritch-Android's frame twitches.
"I said, I am REPLACING the lower cockpit module. Not destroying it, you stiff-necked, fat flanked, cross eyed, thoroughly useless, maniacal, cowardly whore of a horse. Once I locate you, I am going to pound you harder than my mother does."
>Spoken calmly, smoothly, and filled with the greatest possible controlled rage, resuming her reconstructive efforts more cautiously this time.
[1d6+14 = (2+14) = 16] <Grade 1 Auto-Repair
[1d6+15 = (5+15) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+13 = (1+13) = 14] <Grade 2 Auto-Repair
[1d6+13 = (6+13) = 19]
[1d6+13 = (4+13) = 17]
[1d6+20 = (6+20) = 26] <Tryptaran Autorestoration
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <Repair Tendril #1
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <RT-#2
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <RT-#3
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] <RT-#4
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <RT-#5
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] <RT-#6
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <RT-#7
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3] <RT-#8
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Rest Stop 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391044
391058
>>391025
>Visibly struggling to find words rather than pantomime actions, the Siren's body reverses in space, standing up to face the unicorn, in anger rather than panic.
"No, not wake up! Say go sleep two minicycles-"
>Spreading out two long claws from her left forehoof, all four on the right.
"Dul try wake up when two minicycles done! Tallus have six minicycles day to night but Dul not feel how time work! Wiggle Melari not wake him!"

>Testing Hodch's pulse, it was quicker than normal for a unicorn his age, and through your glove his coat felt nearly hot.
>Lifting one eyelid, the black pupil was partly faded, small streaks of red, blue, green, and silver clouding behind the iris.
>Clicking your flashlight on for responsiveness, the pupil expands after two seconds, remaining dilated and contracting at a glacial rate.
>Pinch testing the ankle and knee for muscle reflexes, only slight twitches are given.

>Quickly bringing up all basic references from 'Tipper' and a calculator to compare standard human world times to Tallus, 'Shiibo' scowls.
'30/6 = 5x2 = 10 hours. Ponies sleep an average of nine to ten hours, eleven is unusual excluding Crystal ponies, more is indicative of illness or injury, excluding batponies.
Presumed degradation from curse apex or similar. Cross-referencing prototype's files and conducting a physical examination now.'
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11] <R-AEHI Interface
[1d6+8 = (2+8) = 10]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]

>Stepping in to eye Dul, Lonestar tosses a paper bag filled with magazines into the closest locker, calling behind him.
"What happen, he pass out? 'Ey Kat, are you done yet?"
"Right here!"
>Barging in to stop, process, process again, rapid steps and a heavy pack thrown into seat are heard.
"Oh shitshitshitshitshitshit not now! Lone, time check! I've got.... 27:53 hours, what's yours?"
"27:50.. the fuck? That do-"
"It does since Tallus has a thirty hour cycle and any human that isn't acclimated doesn't notice it! You just vanish for six hours and have no idea you've been gone! Where'd he put the damn candy?!"
"The WHAT?"
"Fuck it, I'll find them!"
>Tearing into her locker and dumping the contents out, several crystalline and metallic rattles occur before a number of light, long paper tubes are hurled, several striking across your rear armor, three landing to the right, two on the left.
"Turn at least five of those candies into powder and mix with water, force him to drink it best as you can! I need to pull a couple favors-"

>Bringing out his last disc to hold, Lonestar glares above it for a moment, reaching for a pen to write in a long stretch, then tosses it into the air.
"Was going to save this one for a real special occasion. Don't let me down Anon."
[1d6 = 5] <Silver Wish Disc
[1d6 = 5]

>Clicking on her radio and tuning to a frequency the avatar couldn't recognize, Katyal snarls into it while writing.
*"Remember that time I said to keep a Card in reserve at all times? I need it right now and I'll do anything you ask from me, later! Write this down exactly how I say it:
Send a pony that knows all about Dynasty blessings and curses, directly onto ME, that being my full name, wherever my name is. This may ONLY be a pony, and will not do anything I do not explicitly order them to.
Got all that? No, I'm not leaving until this is done!"*
[1d6 = 2] <Green Card
"Green Man, you better not leave me hanging again or I'm sending you straight into Velkoll Gorge!"
[1d6 = 4] <Silver Wish Disc
[1d6 = 4]
Tartarus Tunnel Network, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391057
391059
>>391029
>Slashing through flat, boxy dragonflies before bites can land, chomping through a few more to leave smoking husks, and smashing chitin bodies into chunks or wings to shreds, the shield holds enough to prevent those few that land from tearing into her.
"I AM THE SCORCHED DOOM INCARNATE! BASK IN MY RADIANCE AND ACCEPT YOUR BURNING DEATHS!"
>Barely remaining afterwards, Lilamaredre snicker-cackles in lilting, blazing timbres, landing to sweep both her wings in upward diagonals, leaping upwards to snap at a particularly large individual.
>She was MUCH too happy about this.
"...has she been listening to me?"
"Perhaps a bit too much, elf, but I cannot fault her bravery!"
"Neither can I. Perhaps I will teach her to PROPERLY become a Burning One."
>Of course.
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10] <E.Assault
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7] <Flurry
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <RAMPAGE!
[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3] <Flashburn
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10] <E.Reaction Speed
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
>vs:
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Swarm, Angered

>Storming into the rearmost balled together dragonflies, you catch the outermost in a wide sweeping motion, easily slicing through six pests lined up in the first, wrist flicking around and arm extending to slash into four more clustered together, lodging in the thorax of another-
>And is promptly snapped apart by a set of unseen teeth, shaking the pest into tiny, crushed pieces, leaving the chewed blade spotless once more.
>Which prompts the swarm ahead to desperately focus their efforts on tearing into the only wounded living being, the nearly destroyed shield reinforced into a thin layer of third skin around her.
>Lilamaredre: 79/90HP, 13 Shield
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] <Swarm

>NOT even close to catching up, Avernus internally grumbles at her old age, trying to increase from a power trot to something appreciable.
"Sing of destruction borne upon your voice tenfold Amy, let each note herald a new fury delivered!"
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <M.Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] <E.Perception
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4]
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7] <E.Sprint
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5]
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391058
391060
>>391044
>Pareidolia's mind races as Hodch's distressingly weak reflex responses are assessed.
"Brain stem activity still present. Reflexes are weak and slow. With how much time has passed-yes likely degradation of the soul-! Shit! Need to find those candies-"

>Looking up as Katyal and Lone being frantically moving about the cabin, he shifts to pull out his spare canteen and combat knife. He sets them down as he pulls Hodch's head up on top of his thighs, keeping the pony on his side.
(Need to prep for encouraging swallow reflex. Never trained for Medical. Fucking hell.)
>He removes his gloves to quickly and barely prick a palm before applying pressure to prevent bleeding. Sucking in air through gritted teeth, he closes his eyes as the brief sensation of pain triggers a condtioned response.
(Don't fuck this up.)

>Feeling the tubes of candies strike his back, he turns to grab them off the floor with his other hand. Unrolling the paper, he gathers up the candies to lay them on top of the paper and uses the hilt of his knife to grind them into a powder before pouring it into his spare canteen and shaking the bottle vigorously.
"Adminstering!"
>Filling less than a quarter of the canteen cap with the powdered soul candy solution, he would slightly tilt Hodch's head on his lap to pour the liquid into his mouth before then rubbing down the unicorn's throat in repeated slow and smooth motions.
[1d6 = 2] <U. Medical
[1d6 = 6] <FINA
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391059
391061
__she's pretty much gandalf.png
>>391057
>The filly snickered at Lila misquoting a certain pair of puppets rare battlecry, interrupting her song unwilfully from the sheer ridiculousness of it.
>She truly was much too happy, yet why wouldn't she be? She hadn't been able to cut loose like this ever.
>Still, Lilamaredre was not even attempting to evade or kite the swarm around for a positional advantage. Silly filly!
>But that's what Amy was for.
>Yet pushing forward, blade, stick and boots carving, thwacking and stamping in equal measure, Amethyst pondered Lila's position for a moment, the bugs (ew) crawling all over her, and in particular their shape.
>She could simply keep Lila protected, yet all the bugs (ew) seemed to be focusing on her. So many of them at once would quickly wear down any barrier she could erect.
>Instead, she altered her tones and seized the hastily formed barrier again, propelling it outwards a short distance to force the bugs (>:|) away. Then came a secondary tone, instead of forcing them to the ground however, she held as many as she could static in the air. She did not bother to halt their movements completely, it was more than enough to keep them pinned where they were, as though between a forefinger and thumb.

[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12] < B. Assault + A Chewed Sword + Kerbann Branch + Juggernaut Hoofboots
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11]

[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] < Savage Maw

[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] < B. Crystal Runes: Pull
[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3]

[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] < B. Crystal Runes: Pull
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]

>No fury here, only the steadfast harmony of the battlesong.
Taking A Lead: The White Room, Degraded
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391060
391077
>>391058
"SHIT! How long was he out?!"
>Flicking half a tube into another, smashing five of dark rainbow hued spheres into chunks, fragments, then powder, losing a small amount from the hurried actions, Hodch was distinctly limp, giving no resistance whatsoever.
>Swishing the mixture inside, it becomes an oddly bright rainbow colored slurry, then a thin soupy consistency.
>Jaw hanging open loosely, the stallion swallows as reflexes sporadically occur, forcing you to take short pauses until nothing remains in the canteen.
[1d6+42 = (6+42) = 48] <Spirit Candy x5

>Heaving her kit bag, pack, and alchemical satchel to the passenger compartments front, Katyal struggles to find something useful, breaking open an older trauma bag.
"Not waiting on the Card, can't trust those damn things-"

>Minimizing herself to the lower right corner, 'Shiibo' speaks in a quick, flat and loud manner.
'Confirm whole body physical trauma related to esoteric-derivative effects. Primary concern: high energy degraded elemental crystallizations taking the form of.. pseudo-blood, or similar, in the tissues of both lungs, small amounts in spleen and liver.
Secondary concern: lymph nodes and blood vessels may become effected within two to three hours. Concentrations: minimal. His body is attempting to remove intruding materials as if it were large scale bacterial infections. Brain, spinal column and all other organs unaffected for now, estimate two to three hours until spreading.
Searching for more precise data."
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]
[1d6+8 = (3+8) = 11] <R-AEHI Interface
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]

>Blinking once, the Landbarge's interior slips sideways into a familiar, though massively damaged White Room, facing the long hallway of doors inside, blanket covered Hodch still in your grasp.
>Sections of doors, walls, kitchen cabinets to the left, fridge and freezer to the right, floor, and ceiling ripple and fade, showing nothing beyond excepting roiling clouds of gray.
"Anon, what the fuck happened to you?!"
"Pare, don't move him! Dude, what's going on?"
>The Third Gestalt's voice from behind was cracked and hollowed out, sheer agony felt through wavering pressures, unable to concentrate properly.
"Not me, and not really sure, must've.. been something Horizon got.. hold of. Bitch touched a lot of objects in New.. Canterlot, corrupted some with Anti, juiced others with.. something nasty, can't figure out.. what it might be."
>Shiibo swivels the recording view around, Anon lying face down, the right, shredded and partially missing raising to stop Katyal from approaching, his head turning left and right slowly, sections of his body simply nonexistent.
"Don't get near me, stay back in case I'm.. contagious or something. Am fine but unstable, hurts a.. lot, can function still. Feels like parts of me aren't here.. anymore. Trying to focus hard, like brain swimming in cold.. peanut butter."
>Taking a raspy, shaking inhale, right hand pointing up and above you.
"Shit, can't move like I could.. before. Not even sure I remember what normal pain.. is supposed to feel like. Can't think. Head's two boulders smacking together. Will send you all.. back in a minute, maybe two. Bag you wanted's in the.. thing, Kat, couldn't find it all, had to steal some some.. too. Grab any medical supplies in the.. the left cabinets, didn't touch them when I came.. back. Crawled to here and lied down, been here since.. last night, maybe. Don't know.. when. Long time I.. think."
"You better not fucking die or most every human is screwed. Lone, give me a hand and grab everything that looks useful!"
>Immediately lunging forwards to break into the closest cabinets the woman begins tossing packages, cans, and bags into a wavering realspace tear behind you, dull thunks landing on mat, assisted by Lonestar rushing to help her.
"Yeah, I know the.. other options are bad. Real bad, 'cept for you and a few.. others. Wish I never sent Rua to the Tower.. Guard now."
"Got all the old stuff we can use, anything else?"
"No, just don't get.. close to me. Okay. Kind of.. better, little bit at least. Sending you all back.. to point of origin. Take discs-"
"Done, now stop dying!"
"Wish I could.. go an-"

>Returning to the Landbarge, less than two feet from the pilot's chair, it had been somewhat resized, larger than before as the two Operators behind scramble to sort through objects, mostly older medical kits and trauma packs that hadn't been refit to newer standards, a trio of wish discs clattering on mat.
"Time check-"
"Spent three seconds in the White Rooom.. SHIT! Didn't get everything I wanted but the seats are redone, got a vital monitor on all of 'em at least!"
"Fuck it, any improvement is good right now. Pop open a big trauma pack and get it ready for me next to that chair."
"Take care of him damn it, I owe that unicorn a dozen lives!"
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] <E.Leadership: Medical
[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3]
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]

>Dashing back into the pilot cabin around you to kneel at his rear end, Katyal places her left hand on the the unicorn's neck briefly, grimacing at the heat.
>Glancing up to you after ten seconds, the cold, stiffly professional medic takes over, seeing but not quite acknowledging you.
"I'll take his rear legs and torso so don't worry about the weight. Keep his head and neck in alignment, don't let either drop below his shoulders if he starts choking, understood? Be really gentle.
Need to get him onto the closest chair, it's left and directly behind you four and a half feet. Ready on three to lift? One, two, three-"
>V.F.R: Reaction Speed/Sprint & Scouting Sacrificed!
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <E.Medical + V.F.R.
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8] <M.Assault: Caregiver
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]

*"Fucking hope Anon got the repulsion system capped out best as he could. Rerculon, head towards Point VenRo One-Priority at maximum speed, avoid ALL obstacles and ruins in a five kilometer radius! If you can't, go straight through, we'll worry about pursuers later!"*
[1d6+29 = (5+29) = 34] <Overclocked Redline
[1d6+29 = (1+29) = 30]
[1d6+29 = (1+29) = 30]
[1d6+29 = (5+29) = 34]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <Master Piloting
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
Tartarus Tunnel Network, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391061
391067
>>391059
>Visibly a bit drained from the high impact physical exertions, Lilamaredre's teeth crunch through a large dragonfly as if it were paper mache, spitting the burnt pieces out.
"HAHAHA! If you cannot beat them, then eat them! After being well cooked, of course!"
"Who's side are you on?"
>Switching to a spiraling downward, left wing cocked upwards, right downwards, slashing in reverse to land and bounce upwards once more, she switches basic tactics to spearing at the closest sets of eyes.
>Depleting numbers shredding through the Cover, three manage to land on the other filly's saddle and rear, biting into Elemarental flesh, not without being scorched for their efforts.
>Lilamaredre: 73/90HP
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] <E.Assault
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <Flashburn
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <E.Reaction Speed
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
>vs:
[1d6+11 = (2+11) = 13] <Swarm, Angry

"And what do you have to say for her actions?"
"Wut'zat, knoife-ears?"
"Surely you understand the danger she is in?"
"A'courze I doez! She'z gettin' ready ta WA-"
"She cannot connect to most, or do you not remember that incredibly important detail?"
"BAH! Den yu'z betta teach 'er ta dance 'round fings, ain't dat what'cher pointy 'ats iz good at?!"
"Such a simpleton you are, why do I ever bother with you!"
"'Cuz yer not da biggest an' da best 'orse, a'course!"
>At least one of them had some sense.

>Ripping a crossing downstroke right carves through five more dragonflies and crunches halfway through sixth, flicking the blade up and left catches five more, slicing through the wings of another which is effortlessly crushed under hoofboot.
>Invisible teeth rend the stuck one into chunks, flatten the head of another in close proximity, and wrench off the left wings of a third.
>Desperate from starvation as the swarm was, they were not intelligent to realize the mistake.
>Reaching out in a harshly ringing counter-bass, thirteen of them become fully locked in place, unable to move yet forcibly trying to, now less than a third of the number still alive.

>Exasperated by the brawling filly's single-minded pursuit, you can feel Avernus roll her eyes while running past you on the far left tunnel side, the swarm not considering her as a target of opportunity.
"Stop striking at everything that moves and DODGE for horse's sakes! You are a PEGASUS, not an earth pony! The exit isn't far ahead!"
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <M.Leadership: Evasion
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391067
391106
image.png
>>391061
>Amethyst made a face at Lila's proclamation. Indignant and quite offended at the prospect.
>Bugs were not good eating, cooked or not. Of course her puppet friends would focus on entirely the wrong thing about all of this.
>Sighing with exasperation, the ipotane's battlesong shifted into a crescendo now that there were few enough bugs to properly shield the filly from getting chomped since her friend perenially refused to dodge, even as separate sonorous tones reformed the initial crushing torus around Lila to deal with those outside her reach.
>At Gorgutz' words, Amy could swear she could hear music at the edge of hearing. Could anypony else hear that? It couldn't just be her, not again.

[YouTube] Lugrig Strongarmz - WHAT A WONDERFUL WAAAGH! (Warhammer 40K Parody) [Embed]

>Though Amy herself still worked around the edges of Lilamaredre's immediate zone, every weapon she had rending the bugs in her way, bafflingly still all but ignoring her for the living, blazing blender her bestie was turning out to be.

[1d6+10 = (5+10) = 15] < B. Assault + A Chewed Sword + Kerbann Branch + Juggernaut Hoofboots + M. Leadership: Assault
[1d6+10 = (2+10) = 12]

[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5] < Savage Maw

[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11]

[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] < B. Crystal Runes: Pull + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391077
391109
>>391060
>Pareidolia enables and shifts a text readout annotation of Shiibo's current analysis to the periphery of his helmet visor display, but before he can relay it, the world shifts around him.

>The titular White Room appears, disturbingly war torn and damaged. Anonymous' voice warbles with a strange timbre behind Pareidolia.
>Wincing at the pressure, he creases his face in disbelief and horror as Shiibo rotates the camera view.
'For this Class 2 to be this damaged, human status in Tallus is in dire condition. Not enough resources to address this on top of everything else...'
>Cradling Hodch's unresponsive head and neck further up his thighs, he remains still as Katyal and Lone make a pell mell dash through the available supplies.
>Face darkening at the mention of Rua Longstressess, he finds a bitter taste in his mind and mouth as the OT-4's interior flows back into his field of view.
(Then I'm responsible for this too. Great.)

>Looking around the improved interior, it seems the Wish Disc came through for Lonestar at least. As Katyal adopts a clear combat medic demeanor, he nods at her orders.
"-Lift!"
>Moving in tandem with Katyal, he shifts Hodch to the upgraded chair behind himself while maintaing the unicorn's posture.
"Initial joint scan indicated whole body trauma related to esoteric effects. High energy elemental crystallizations of 'psuedo-blood' found in tissues of both lungs, minor concentrations in spleen and liver. Current overall concentrations minimal. Body responding to assumed bacterial infection. Brain, spine, all other organs currently uninfected. Lymph nodes and blood infection estimated within 2 to three hours. Clouding of red, blue, green, and silver striations behind iris observed. Additional diagnosis ongoing."

[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3] < U. Medical
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5] < FINA
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6] <M. Assault
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
Tartarus Tunnel Network, Path #8,293
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391106
391107 391108
>>391067
>Spiking through eyes, bodies, wings, any twitch of motion within her range, the far too joyful pegasus is forced to shake her wings from baked dragonflies upon landing.
"FIIIINE!"
>Pirouetting rapidly and outstretched feathers swatting at the much fewer hostiles remaining
>Her eyes couldn't roll, instead seeking new targets... and she might have made a slightly offensive butt wiggle at the Baroness passing her.
"You should RESPECT the venerable mare, AND her advice, WHELP!"
>That only earned the spiky 'ead a quick, sideways flaming raspberry before snapping at a much too close victim.
>Lilamaredre: 62/90HP
[1d+6] <E.Assault
[1d+6]
[1d+6]
[1d+6] <E.Evasion
[1d+6]
[1d+6]
[1d+2] <Flashburn
>vs:
[1d6+11 = (5+11) = 16] <Swarm, Infuriated

"It was a joke you busybodies, I can't taste stuff that isn't fire!"
"Truly disgusting."
"An astoundingly terrible choice."
"Perhaps an illegal one?"
"It may be."
"Agreed, I can think of little worse."
"GO BAKE YOURSELVES!"

>Stomping down on twitching exoskeletons that might pose a threat, sending 6 more not facing you to open air graves, hanging on a seventh, reversing course to slash through another five, the tunnel was becoming clearer.
>Fitfully wiggling the chewed blade while it decides to have a third dinner, chunks fall as a fourth is delivered to the closest insect, its long body crushed flat, and a snack is served as well, seizing the thorax of a third, shaken rapidly before being tossed right.
>Maybe the Kerberi taught it their secrets... or they were ALL responsible for the various tooth and fang marks.
>Dense harmonics snatching and hurtling a further dozen free hostiles around Lilamaredre down to splatter, the stuck ones were unmoving in air, having minimal strength to free themselves.
>Not too far ahead, bright yellow, red, and orange flickers of strange hues were becoming visible against green pseudostone, and even some real stone too.

"...why do I hear jingles now?"
>Trying to focus on placing her stride correctly, Avernus snickers quietly before calling behind her.
"Get your hooves moving, the exit Gate is straight ahead and clear!"
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <M.Leadership: Sprint
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
fuckoffmissingrolls
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391107
391108
>>391106

[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7] <E.Assault
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] <E.Evasion
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] <Flashburn
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391108
391113
>>391106
>>391107
>Giggles turned to laughter as the puppets teased Lila's choice in non-elemental cuisine, struggling to keep her song uninterrupted in the face of such humour. Amethyst could not, she does not.
>Slowing her assault to attend to the irate filly, Amethyst changed her tune once again, resonances of healing and protection directed at Lila to try and reverse some of the damage and prevent more from being dealt.
>At least she was dodging the swarm's full fury now, hopefully they wouldn't decide to turn their attention to Amy now that Lila was proving more elusive. Though Avernus thought it was time for them to get a proper move on, so it might not matter.
>Juggernaut boots thudded and crunched their way across the ground, advancing ahead.

[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8]

[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] < B. Sprint + M. Leadership: Sprint
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]

[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication, Rest Stop 2
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391109
391115
>>391077
>Playing back the White Room quickly, the avatar's right hand splays out, then balls, twitching angrily.
'Class Eight to Eighty-Nine damage caused, definitely under Class Ninety. Will inspect causes later.'

>Kneeling down to snake both arms under Hodch's rear, hands spread apart to hold his torso, Katyal's entire weight shifts to her legs, standing before you do, halting twice to ensure complete alignment from torso to head.
>Displaying zero emotion at the mistimed motions, her head twitches in specific directions to guide you backwards, leaning forwards to correct jerky movements.
"Decent; need a refresher course and proper training. Take notes if able."
>Spoken without a trace of harsh or demeaning intention, placing the unicorn on his left side, eyes flicking high, then left to right in deep recall, Katyal's left cheek twitches in confusion before placing both hands under Hodch's chin, rubbing in small motions.
"Pseudo-blood? ..body rejecting unknown false cells which can't be neutralized or removed by leukoctyes. Liver, spleen, pancreas unable to break down or remove due to large shape and composition, would cause medium to severe urinary tract blockages, distress, burning, bleeding, harsh pain responses. Hasn't stated, described, or shown symptoms any.
Too large to enter restricted intra-marrow passages, cycled back through bloodstream into heart, heart admits without problem, cycles into lung tissues, lodges during respirations, tears through from rattling coughs, continuous regeneration plus consistent median irritation responses as equine lungs have few pain nervous endings.. that's why he keeps coughing out crystallized Elementals. Damned idiot."
>Searching the updated crash seat's improved functions before checking the rear, a small steel box is removed and clicked open, retrieving a host of white rubber squares covered in circuitry.
"Equine anatomy; above each eye, behind each ear, three inches left and right from upper jawline, each side of throat off center from esophagus directly on large arteries, inside each front leg pit facing opposite the ribs, center of barrel, directly below sternum, above each testicle within four inches, directly above each knee on both rear legs, frog of each hoof-"
>Placing the monitoring strips with stiff, mostly fluid precision, she reaches out to flip a screen above the headrest, tapping the power button before watching it carefully boot up.
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <Vitals Monitor
"Lone, check the flower print satchel in front of my chair, read what you can for me."
>Velcro being opened, heavy gem bottles rattle several times, the navy man hissing in exasperation.
"Same language Rasera's stuff was covered in. Kat, know how to read Neighpon?"
"No, barely know forty basic words and phrases in Common Neighsian, highly dissimilar."
"Pare, you know Neighponese or whatever it's called?"
>'Shiibo' directs an internal view onto the mostly filled satchel of bottles, though was unable to translate more than partial words from labels, speaking aloud through the OT-5.
'He does, yes, and I can translate to a point. Switch with Lonestar, sir.'

"How else can I help?
"Don't know yet, need to ensure he attempts to cough freely and doesn't vomit."
>Testing for esophageal responses with her left hand, the right presses deeply into Hodch's sternum, then moves to behind the ribs, performing small palpations in quick motions.
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] <E.Medical + V.F.R.
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
"If the first doesn't occur I need to encourage reflexive motions while suppressing, halting, or preventing the second. Short words time:
Get in my big pack, bring out six pairs of sealed long red rubber gloves, two medium, two large, one extra large, those are in case I need extra hands. Take the trauma bag and open it up, look for a long flexible tube twelve hooves long, has a thin steel bendy straw inside. One end looks like a spiked rubbery club, other end is a five inch flat steel bar."
"This it? The fuck is this thing for?"
"Yes, set them next to Hodch, don't open any yet. Custom tool I had Green Man make to incite lung compressions or induce vomiting."
"....do I want to kn-"
"Not know and probably never."
>Glancing up, then down quickly and listening to Hodch's breathing, Katyal snorts in a quick, flat manner, almost like a pony would.
"Green Card must have failed otherwise a pony, journal, or pile of notes would've landed on my head right now.
Lone, keep that disc in absolute final reserve, don't use it outside of an extreme emergency. This doesn't count as the idiot failed to eat one Spirit Candy every two hours as I told him to.
Pare, how many discs do you have remaining?"
Saddle Arabia, Deep Deserts
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391113
391116
Vailru Forns Outpost, Abandoned.jpg
>>391108
>Juking her flaming body, movemarents alternate between smooth and twitchy as the remaining swarm tries to land on her, the remainder, mostly large individuals now, push hard to break through as 11 of their smaller kin are sliced into thin ribbons.
[1d6+16 = (6+16) = 22] <Swarm, Enraged

"NOT YET!"
>Scattering strips of boxy, burning insect corpses around her, Lilamaredre cackles gleefilly as soothing ripples of Fire breaking free from deep within her, deeper wounds sealing partway while a millimeter skinshield covers her body.
>The imprint of a giant lightbulb pops above her head, leaping backwards to draw the reduced swarm's attention as you run past, then lunges forwards into a run, aiming directly at the squashed oval tunnel's sides-
>Lilamaredre: 76/90HP, 8 Shield
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10] <E.Assault
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12] <E.Sprint
[1d6+6 = (6+6) = 12]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6] <Flashburn

"Is she doing what I think that is?"
"HAH! Show them the.. what IS that mareneuver?"
"A trick meant to deceive superior numbers, though I know not which."

>Stomping up the tunnel, now touching REAL stone, the bright flickers of real, and quite strange, bright colors meeting your eyes, as does a bizarre looming structure in the distance, flanked by the remains of a heavily worn, yet still fully intact Gate.
>Exiting a short distance from Avernus, the Gate's proto-sentient state recognizes a titled mare, a name resounding aloud, and including the locale's status.

>Ahead nearly 30M, the Baroness skids to a halt in sand, quickly untying the rope from her with a suitably tired huff.
"Never thought I would get THIS blasted old, going to start working out the second I get back-"
>Toss it off and trotting a 180 in place, sleds gliding onwards past to her, the elderly mare gazes upwards with a sharp grin, stamping her front left hoof, sing-whistling out in greet-beckoning.
<Middle Dynasty Voce-Engram> "Four Hooves of Equinity, I ask ye come forth from these holy sands of a lost place, we are travelers in peril! Strike forth in blessed fury but four momarents hence and I shall grant that which you desire most!"
[1d6+19 = (1+19) = 20] <GM.Sorcery: Calling of Revenants Lost
[1d6+19 = (5+19) = 24]
[1d6+19 = (3+19) = 22]
[1d6+19 = (3+19) = 22]

[1d100 = 99] <Archaic Saddle Arabian Choice
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391115
391118
>>391109
>The rapidfire medical crash course sees Pareidolia focusing as best he can, though the stress begins to outpace his efforts to learn. He hones in on trying to retain the presented information.

[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11] <Graduate Biologist
[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8]
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] <FINA

>Glancing up from helping to secure Hodch as Lone mentions Neighponese, with some relief he stands up and makes room for Lone to take his place. Stepping around and behind him, he heads towards Katyal's satchel of clearly stolen Neighponese alchemical goods.
"Not trained for this, sorry."

>Sifting through the various bottles, he begins reading them and setting aside any that seemed relevant while providing a short reply to Katyal.

"Two here. One back at Razorback."
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391116
391119
>>391113
>Amethyst glared pointedly at the light bulb offending conventional logic, not knowing if it were real or not, perhaps Lila had performed a trick of the light, or Amy's own ears were deceiving her.
>Furrowing her brow and humming yet more sonorous waves of healing and protection after Lila before she got out of range, Amy caught up to Avernus and stood nearby, weapons ready should any of the bugs come their way.

[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]

[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8] < B. Sprint + M. Leadership: Sprint
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]

[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10]

"What in the world is she doing, teacher?"
>Looking back over her shoulder to witness Avernus stamping a hoof and beginning her casting, Amethyst asked in exasperation.
"Wait, what in the world are you doing?"
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391118
391151
>>391115
>Memorizing the esoteric details and applying them to biological processes, there were.. connections; loose, yet well categorized ones.
>It was enough to comprehend a basic, working knowledge of high end magical and Elemental infections.

>Lonestar ducks out of the way to place a clearly older trauma bag next to Katyal, returning to her spread out kit.
"No apologizing allowed. All squads need a medic, exclamation mark. Hodch picked the one he's most familiar with that won't remember important details when or if certain questions are asked."
>Finding an unusually new woven cotton satchel, the flap and sides painted in metallic orchids, the interior divided into three sections using a thin, light wooden board with bright white cotton layers.
"Always keep them close, never know when you need one."
>Mostly filled with roughly eighty vials and bottles, each of a specific color, secured in thick pockets to prevent contact, you recognized all of the terms, phrases, and names as Elemental and spiritually related.
>Repeating the names while placing the stallion's head down, listening for airway obstruction, she frowns briefly.
"Not the most potent versions, will have to work. Bring one Path of Earth's Grace, two Slow Waters, one Burning Iron, two Cherry-Blossom Moon, one Dawn's Glory, and three Walk Between Skies."
>Pressing both thumbs onto the top of his snout, releasing to watch color return, she emits a harsh exhale.
"Can't provoke him into cough, muscle reflexes are weak and abdominal strength is virtually nonexistent. Primary threat is he's burning hot, need to reduce whole body temperature by at least four degrees in five minutes or less.
Crystallized Elements are being treated like an infection, can't remove them from his lungs with extremely delicate internal tools and inspection equipment. Have the second, not the first. Hornet drones are too big, that model doesn't have manipulators.
What we need is a....."
>Stilling for a split-second, she turns on both heels to gaze down at Dul, one hoof on the anvil, pushing down on it with some force.
[1d6 = 2] <Language Adaption
[1d6+1 = (4+1) = 5] <Tallus Acclimation
[1d6+1 = (1+1) = 2] <Vortex Adapt: Tallus
>Sensing the unusual mood directed onto her, Dul's head turns, then the rest of her body to face Katyal, blinking.
"What? Dul not doing bad things. Dul not stealing. Dul trying find big weapon."
"....you."
"What mean?"
"A Siren."
>Snout scrunching in rising confusion, the faux-mare's voice raises in slight alarm, mane bristling in a subdued fear reaction.
"What MEAN?"
"Not like that, Dul. We need you, your claws, and the capability of phasing those claws of yours through matter to safely remove objects."
"Dul.. have those. Give them, too? What need?"
"Kat, you fucking serious?"
"Yes. Landbarge can scan, Dul can feel, you and her can verify, we can remove."
"This is insane-"
>Swiveling the chair around for the headrest to face the front screen, she points at it, then to Dul, sidestepping to kneel down before tapping the middle of her shoulders.
"Probably is. Lone, I'll need to know down to the micron where the crystallizations are located with absolute precision.
Dul, get on my back, I'm going to carry you. Hooves over my shoulders, right here-"
>Glancing at you with both eyebrows raised, the Vortex mare's turn into a wavy-S, then slides into position behind Katyal, climbing on and stretching forelegs out.
"Good, extend your claws to full length and make this part above the hoof physical enough for me to hold."
>Obliging the ordered request, both of Katyal's hands reach up, fingers settling over the hooves to hold the claws briefly, then patting each.
"Thank you sincerely, these will work. Dul, I'm going to perform a number of extremely delicate actions using your claws. This will likely hurt, but outside of you we don't have the technology, magic, alchemicals, or sheer knowledge to keep this filly toucher alive. Besides, performing real surgery with the most adorable, sweet, cute Siren I've ever seen has got to be the best part of tonight.
Lone, hand me the Sphaler Core and get ready to make the most of this Landbarge's scanning systems."
"I don't wanna know why, do I?"
>Studying the monitor intently for three seconds, the woman lifts a sealed pair of red surgical gloves, setting them on the headrest before Lonestar passes by, placing the hexagonal gemoid into her hand and slipping into the pilot's seat.
"You'll know in ten to fifteen seconds. Pare, take these, large should fit you. When Hodch's core temperature drops below ninety-five place one drop of Burning Iron on his tongue for each degree needed to reach ninety-eight. No more, no less."
>Holding the Core in both hands, Katyal speaks in a sonorous, echoing timbre, not quite a language, thin lines of dull sapphire and bright turquoise filling the compartment.
[1d6 = 5] <B.Mystic: Harvest-Thy-Gentle-Flames
[1d6 = 5]
[1d6 = 2] <Containment

>Setting the Core aside and taking the deepest possible breath, she grasps Dul's claws.
"First, we need to locate the largest pieces of Elemental crystals. They will be sharp, covered in small points, blades, or spikes, and have numerous colors. Dul, the second you see one, reach inside Hodch without touching anything else, grab the piece, and I will help pull them out. Understand?"
"Yes?"
"Lone, screen ready?"
*"Yeah, coming up now."*
"Set it up. Dul, locate the first one-"
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] <E.Medical + V.F.R
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] <E.Perception
[1d6+2 = (4+2) = 6]
[1d6+2 = (5+2) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7] <GM.Iron Will: Precision Control
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+3 = (1+3) = 4] <M.Assault: Surgical Touch
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10] <Siren’s Gaze
[1d6 = 6]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12] <Liferend
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (1+8) = 9]
[1d6+8 = (4+8) = 12]
[1d6+9 = (3+9) = 12] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
[1d6+9 = (2+9) = 11]
[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14]

>Paused from creating a new file branch listed purely as HORROR FI, the second word not yet completed, avatar turns a starkly neutral gaze directly at you.
'Does this count as assisting in a probably illegal, definitely unsanctioned, not fully sterile, and quite likely insane ersatz medical operation, sir?'
Saddle Arabia: Vailru Forns Outpost, Abandoned
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391119
391162
>>391116
>It looked real but was only a thin projection of flames, dissipating after the other filly moves.
>She wasn't going to recover them either.
>Cutting a swath through the swarm during a sideways forward leap, the skinshield shatters under too marely mandibles, large streamers of Fire nearly exiting her body, though most suffuse back down to, grudgingly, keep her physicality together.
>Landing fully horizontal, Lilamaredre coils, leaping straight ahead towards the opposite side, then rebounds again, the swarm terribly confused, forming into a protective sphere.
>Lilamaredre: 74/90HP, 13 Shield

>Feeling raw, heated air from a gust behind, it was... already far too much.
>The Sun's overly warm rays were starting to make you understand a completely new meaning to the term regret.
"I think she is trying to collect the swarm into a static location for quick dispatching."
>Tapping her hoof once more, a second, then a third, the Baroness frowns on the fourth, ears cocking back in disappointmarent after the fifth.
"I am, rather, WAS, trying to summon a Revenant from this region. We are certainly in Saddle Arabia, though I have no idea what the month or day is here, and it is late Day. Perhaps there are none capable of functioning outside of Night. In that ca-"

>Shimmering into view less than half a meter forwards, quarter transparent, burnt red eyes with reflective yellow pupils squint, slightly above your height.
>Fully entering realspace, an exceptionally long, flowing light yellow mane and tail flow sideways, the dusty brown coat with scattered, dull white spots highly unusual, long, slightly tufted ears covered in thin black lines wiggling in amusemarent.
>Shaggy, ringed sand colored fetlocks drift briefly, and black hooves emit heavy *tamp* noise as the Revenant lands.
>Leaning forwards for a snout-to-snout, the barely visible Saddle Arabian whispers in a quick, flowing language, the voice holding notes that may have been a singer at some point.
"OI, YU'Z ALL HEAR DAT?!"
"Not quite, no."
"I do not."
"HAH! It'z toime!"
"For what, brute?"
"Lissen reel close!"
>Avernus takes on a poker face as the mare's eyebrows wiggle several times.
>Nickering hollowly, the Revenant swivels about, then rears back, releasing an echoing battle-whinny before leaping up and down into the tunnel, leaving streaks of-
>Pretty much every color, including some you didn't know existed.
"'ERE WE GO, 'ERE WE GO, 'ERE WE GO-"

>Moving considerably faster than Lilamaredre could, the archaic mare smashes head first into the dragonfly swarm, turning the swarm's defensive position into a severe mistake.
>Jagged spikes of Elemental stone stretch out from the tunnel's walls to spear multiple individuals in a row, large square hammers the size of an earth pony appearing, spinning around once to flatten a number, and sweeping blows from solid rods impact.
>Head snapping upwards to watch the forceful impacts.. the burning filly lands on her right side.
>Taking precisely 0.2 seconds to roll onto her chest, sit up, and spot what had caused her new position, she blinks, then decides to scramble up onto hooves and MOVE FLANKS.
[1d6+7 = (6+7) = 13] <E.Sprint
[1d6+7 = (2+7) = 9]
[1d6+7 = (2+7) = 9]

".......are you well, Baroness?"
"She'z foine!"
"I.... will not know the answer to your questino for marely, marely years. IF ever."
"That does not sound like a good trade."
"Loike Oi sed, she'z FOINE!"
"In WHAT manner of speech do you MEAN that WORD, ORK?!"
"HARHARHAR!"
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
dfd0466
?
No.391151
391158 391161
>>391118
>The operative now turned impromptu medical technician quickly gathers up the listed bottles and in a moment of clarity, decides to quickly grab one of the scattered tubes of Soul Candies on the floor nearby to add to his arms.
(May need additional healing, timeframe unknown... )

>Arriving back at the open side of the folded out crash chair, he starts organizing the bottles by type in preparation for use. He glances over for a moment as Katyal's line of reasoning begins to coincide with his.
"... Right, a Siren may be our only surgical option. Insane as this is."

>Grimly standing by as Dul takes her place as a frame arm surgeon's scalpel, he checks the vital monitor's display while removing his own gloves and donning the surgical pair Katyal had set aside.
"It's to identify the crystal locations and act as a guide camera for removal."

>Picking up a bottle of the so named Burning Iron, he holds position by Hodch's elevated head.
"Understood."

>Flicking his eyes towards Shiibo's figure on his HUD, he presses his lips together in resignation.
'Not illegal. Just a high risk medical intervention, sterility be damned.'
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391158
391161
>>391151
[1d6+1 = (2+1) = 3] <U. Medical + Leadership Bonus
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] <Graduate Biologist
[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
[1d6 = 2] <Apprentice Unicorns
[1d6 = 1]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8] <FINA
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391161
391163
>>391151
>>391158
>Giving a small, tight smile as you use the space behind Hodch's saddle for organization, Katyal lifts the blanket off, folding it down and tossing onto the next chair.
"Never deny an option if it makes sense in an immediately vital context.
Later I will most likely freak out and panic over committing to this specific sequence of choices and actions. When that occurs pour half a bottle of Sleep Under Stars into one of the two empty bottles in my backpack. And should you need to work out frustration, slap me a few times while I'm out."
>Looking up at the monitor, past to the wide screen showing a unicorn's body on the left side, then back again, she gently pats Dul's hooves once more.
"Prior temperature one-zero-four-point-eight, current temperature.. ninety-four, shivering imminent. Shock will occur at ninety-two and below. Administer four drops of Burning Iron, hold a fifth unless it declines.
Staying within ninety-eight to ninety-nine will encourage a near-REM state unique to unicorns, they rarely move during it."
>Extreme close range scans displaying, Hodch's circulatory system was a constantly shifting mass of multi-colored specks, large concentrations spread throughout the lungs in two angles, one horizontal, one vertical, though slightly fuzzy and shifting in random degrees by a half-pixel each second.
"There's hundreds, almost a thousand.. two thousand.. three? Gods of Blood and Life, THAT happened in twelve hours?"
"Couldn't have known, this is unexpected. Never considered this to be the extent. Must have exhausted himself and forgotten my instructions.
Micro, tiny, small, medium, and large; cellular priority is removing extruding ones inside lungs. Screen is jittering a bit, can you stabilize?"
"Don't know how, checking-"

>Glancing up to eye the screen, left fore and middle finger holding Dul's leftmost claw, wiggling it at a particular object.
"Dul see big one there."
"Do you see it inside him?"
"Yes. Dul... NOT like it."
[1d6 = 1] <Language Adaption
"Good. Phase into his body slowly, try not to touch anything else until reaching only that piece."
>Directing two pairs of extended, triple-jointed claws into the stallion's chest cavity, slight wavering from the Siren pushes through soft tissues, leaving faint lines of fluid atop the lung.
"Pare, slight lacerations; two drops of Slow Waters, one drop of Dawn's Glory.
Amazing job, Dul, don't mind the little amount of harm done, we can heal him but we also need to do this slowly. I will be moving your claws for you, don't phase or dephase until I say."
>Steadily extracting rearwards until the four claws exit, a small, jagged chunk of dully glowing, multi-hued crystal is shown, dephasing for Katyal to stare at with a twinge of disgust.
"Lonestar, I need a secure locker or case to store these in, one that can be atmospherically drained. Safe to touch for now but these become highly explosive after five minutes in Tallus air. Potential risk of Elemental contamination after ten. Possibly all Elementals, he typically banishes them using anti-Elemental micro-spells.
Next one-"
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] <E.Medical + V.F.R.
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6]
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <M.Assault: Surgical Touch
[1d6+3 = (2+3) = 5]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]

>Stepping out of the seat to boot up the technician systems, the man thinks, head shaking before stopping.
"Shit, I don't have anything in my kit. Let me think, there's a... wait, wait! We can use one of the big NitrOx scuba tanks!"
"Is it reinforced?"
"To level five plate or so!"
"Will have to work."
>Unlocking the new passenger side sliding access door to get into Katyal's upright locker, a new, much better looking water camo diving is taken out, one of the large tanks is disconnected.
>Returning to the chair and kneeling down next to the woman, the top is screwed off as he reaches up to poke around in the ceiling, then grunts, placing the tank down and taking apart the third-time refurbished mask's connections.
"Rerculon, give me full control over emergency NitrOx mask number... six."
>Reaching up to grab the piece, he stares at it blackly for two seconds, then drops the chunk in, requesting it to be vacuumed.

>Pressing Backspace until the line is blank, the avatar's arms fold, fingers tapping in short fits.
'Understood. Excellent amount of high classification data to record, will allow significantly improved knowledge regarding further treatmarents. Biologically speaking, a confirmed Necromancer and Mystic individual may have differences from the more common Equestrian unicorns.
Assisting in the operation sir, unless otherwise required or desired.'
>Taking over an in-vehicle frequency, 'Shiibo' dismisses a host of warnings in her own displays.
'Lonestar, requesting permission to, temporarily, take command of the gunner-operator's particle scanning control systems."
"Granted, and you might as well keep on 'em, barely know what I'm doing as it is."
'Thank you. Now attempting to clarify image, then isolate and highlight Elemental false cells for Miss Katyal and Miss Dul.'
"I'm engaged. To a mare. That I love dearly."
"Dul is friend! Friends? Dul not sure right word."
'I.... see.'
[1d6+3 = (3+3) = 6] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9]
[1d6+3 = (4+3) = 7]
[[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14] <ExoTech Optronic Particle Scanner
[1d6+9 = (4+9) = 13]
[1d6+9 = (6+9) = 15]
[1d6+9 = (5+9) = 14]
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14] <OT-5 Electronic Warfare Systems
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14]
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14]
[1d6+10 = (4+10) = 14]
Amethyst Storm-Rose-Dalli
!I/HIPPOkOY
f5e73e1
?
No.391162
391165
>>391119
>Lila's acrobatics were rather hard to track, so it was hard to know precisely where to sing to in order catch the pegasus with her battlesong. Maybe she was better off not dodging after all.
>The gust of wind and unabated sunshine from behind wasn't helping matters much. Amethyst whined to Avernus in query.
"Ugh, I'm meltiiing, can we go back to Tartarus and find a different gaaate?"
>It even took her a moment to process what Avernus had said about what Lila was trying to accomplish. Though it did seem to be working.
>It couldn't hurt to bolster Lila's recovery a little more, there were still the occasional bugs trying to eat her alive. Amy couldn't have that.

[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11]

[1d6+2 = (3+2) = 5] < B. Reaction Speed
[1d6+2 = (1+2) = 3]

[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9] < B. Crystal Runes: Power + M. Leadership: Crystal Runes
[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8]

>After completing her song, Amy paused and pointed a finger at the appearance of the... Saddle Arabian? She spoke to Avernus in her singsong, amused tone.
"You mean that Revenant, teacher?~"
>She stuck her sword point down and waited, ears and tail twitching to see what happened next.
>And to try to stir up some cold air so she wouldn't melt into a puddle.
>As for the Revenant...
>Oh. Oh!
"My, my."
>Sheathing her sword, Amethyst affixed Avernus with a side eye out of concern, before loping back to her side somewhat wearily in the heat.
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391163
391179
>>391161
>Applying the four drops of Burning Iron solution on Hodch's tongue, he checks back to the monitor to keep track of his vitals once more.
>Seeing the sheer number of crystalline objects embedded inside, a thought occurs to him as his face twinges in disconcertment.
"Will we need anesthesia as this operation continues?"

>Already standing by as Dul's claw sank into Hodch's lung cavity, he grabs the two required solutions while capping and Sticking the Burning Iron to his vest for ease of access.

>Blinking an affirmative to Shiibo, he continues to swap his attention between the surgery and the monitors. Paying attention to all the details he could, he holds a state of readiness.
(Conditioning will fade soon, need to prevent it from impacting performance.)

[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] <U. Medical + Leadership Bonus + N-SMP(U)
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7] <Graduate Biologist
[1d6+5 = (5+5) = 10]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]
[1d6+5 = (3+5) = 8]
[1d6+1 = (1+1) = 2] <Pupil Unicorns
[1d6+1 = (6+1) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8] <Graduate Researcher + MECCT
[1d6+6 = (5+6) = 11]
[1d6+6 = (4+6) = 10]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8] <FINA
Saddle Arabia: Vailru Forns Outpost, Abandoned
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391165
>>391162
>Far less effected, the unicorn's coat was beginning to twitch in random spots at welcome warmth that wasn't from a fire.
"This was the best candidate, Amy. The time required to properly connect a fully functional Gate to an intact tunnel can take weeks, possibly months. Locating a fully active and connected Gate without expending more than a touch of additional effort is an exceptional find, despite the possible dangers."

>Nothing more than a streak of Fire in the shape of a dumbfounded charging pegasus pretending to be a horse passes by with muffled stomps.
>Then circles back after five seconds, appearing untouched, except for fading bites, as she stops next to you without a hint of fatigue.
>Trying to meld the flames back into her body would take quite a while for them to agree, though they obeyed and seemed to be quiescent.
>For now.
[1d6 = 5] <Fire: Resistance

>A perfectly normal face, with a perfectly normal voice, in a perfectly normal tone, from a perfectly normal unicorn mare, responds.
"Yes. I believe so. I could not have attempted to summon a specific individual. After all, I have never been here."
>Taking the time to stomp all four hooves out eight times to be sure, shake her burning mane, check to make sure her flaming tail was still attached, swivel and flick both ears, scrunch the snout, three times for good measure, and wiggle the majority of her body, Lilamaredre sniffs appreciatively in the dry heat.
"Do you know her?"
>Completely still, except to blink and breathe at perfectly normal intervals, Avernus speaks in perfectly normal, rational thought processes, in a perfectly normal cadence.
"Not yet, no."
>Taken aback at the imminently threatening information, the pegasus slowly leans away, watching the tunnel become a wreck.
"Oooooooooookaaaaaaaaaaaay theeeeeen.... she's pretty. And really quick too."

>Faded echoes of laughter ringing upwards at the hundreds of dead, predatory dragonfiles, each of the three weapons swing one last time.
>A ringing, victorious mare snorts, the green Tartarus pseudostone merges with real Tallus stone, straightening into a marginally sloping downward tunnel.
>It was finally stable, but you knew Avernus would snicker uncontrollably if spoken aloud.

>Briskly, and fancily, clopping up the tunnel to halt at its entrance, the archaic mare's head bows, and after four seconds raises to speak a short, querying sentence.
"Of course. I swore freely and honestly. To uphold my words, no-"
>Shifting through realspace to appear once more, almost snout-to-snout, eyebrows raised high.
>Head turning sideways forty degrees, the Revenant leans in and down for a light, gentle kiss, Avernus surprised at first, but returns the gesture with a faint exhale.
>Head raising, the Baroness struggles for a split-second as the other mare takes a half-step backwards, releasing a deeply relieved sigh.
"........oh. Yes, I thoroughly understand now. The arrangemarent will be made, though I need some time to rest my legs. However, my... 'stallion' is most certainly not a unicorn."
>Right eyebrow raising, dropping, the left raises, drops, then both relax, the archaic Spectral's shoulders lift and lower in a clear 'I don't care or mind' motion.

"This is better than those Adepta Sororitas thin books I placed in the helmets of my battle brothers! The ones I tortured a Commissar with were not this good, however."
"The Empress wills it! ......I guess!"
"Hm. A modestly strange yet uniquely equine conflict resolution method. I marginally approve under duress!"
"I am neutral in this matter."
"As am I."
"Don't bother asking my opinion. Amy, don't wake me up for at least an hour."
"You shifty, two-timing, blasted Ork! Is THAT what you meant by 'fine'?!"
"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!!"
".....RARELY have I EVER been so CONFOUNDED, so CHEATED! SO.... ANNOYED at the implications of this.. Of THIS! OF ALL OF THIS! I do not KNOW how to FEEL and that is making me ANGRY!"
"Ahhhhh, my Lord, perhaps a sm-"
"SILENCE, YOU!"

>Left forehoof raising to wave dismissively at the puppets, then covering her snout, the unicorn quietly giggles.
"Oh, shush! Some of you are completely inexperienced, worse than me in such a regard. One demerit for six of you, one merit for three, and THAT one stays the same. As usual."
>Hoof set down, the Baroness takes eight steps forwards, around the Revenant mare, to halt at the tunnel.
>Turning around, her head tips upwards, sniffing numerous times in quick succession.
>Meanwhile, YOU were both starting to sweat, AND lather.
"Amy, there is a... I think medium sized Warp Gate. It is close, perhaps within twenty kilohooves, but I do not know where. Search for it as I have shown you, whether from Crystal Runes or Sorceries. Please find or make some Ice if you can locate water nearby, but if not dump all Fire into the Kerbann, then have Lilamaredre transmute it to the opposite Elemental."
>Facing the now less blazing pegasus for two momarents, the mare's lips etch backwards in small creases.
"Lilamaredre... you are no longer under my tutorship. I hereby decree your grades sufficient to pass all Middle Dynasty scholastic dues. Now, inhale."
>INSTANTLY doing so, her cheeks puff out, the surrounding temperature plummets to freezing.
"FANK. FU."
>If she could cry, there would be RIVERS.

>Taking the unicorn's left side, the Revenant spins about to regard both you and Lilamaredre curiously as Avernus nods in a short, polite motion.
"I must rest a while before returning. This is not a farewell, and it will never be one.
Should either of you locate a sound, intact Gate, merely touch it and we shall investigate immediately."
>Pausing to snort, the elderly mare nudges her opposite with a sharp nicker.
"That is if our King does not spend the next decade obsessively mounting weapons, armor, skulls, pelts, teeth, claws, and skeletons, with our aid.... if Dominion beings even have that."
>That was, at the least, a TRULY normal occupation.
Taking A Lead: Breakdown in Communication
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391179
391180 391190
>>391163
>Directing the Siren's claws inwards once again to grasp a slightly larger piece, as it is pulled out and deliver to Lonestar, Katyal blanks for a second, muttering coolly before searching for the next largest.
"No, unicorn comatose states present no to minimal movemarents at best until noted otherwise. Should have related before. Apologies."
>Pulling the unicorn's flat, broad, though bright pink pink tongue out enough to place four neon blood red drops on, the thin liquid is absorbed at a moderate rate.
>Observing a slow uptick of 0.1 degree temperature increases, Hodch's core body temperature eventually stabilizes at 98.8, and holds.
>Switching from screen to monitor and back, the first stabilizes entirely, Katyal giving a fractional nod.
Nice, thank you."
'You are welcome, soon-to-be Mrs. Katyal.'
>Small creases spread across Dul and Katyal's face alike, extracting another large Elemental crystal with one pair of claws, releasing for Lonestar to take, toss in, remove air, adn repeat.
>Second set reaching in for the same, then third and fourth, the highly juxtaposed pair ease into a rhythm of calm insertion and extraction, the technical operation proceeding in mostly smooth assisted motions.

>Eventually relaxing from post-combat stress into a more cognizant, focused state of semi-meditative principles, the requests for varying drops of Neighsian, and a few of Katyal's standard alchemicals, flow together in a single line of activity.
>Requiring only small, sharp pinches on skin to maintain the state, the alchemical, biological, and medical related terminology beings to sink in, finding the situation easier to manage with sufficient information.
>Katyal and Dul progress from post-cell sized initial pieces to large, medium, and small, actions flowing together with small, easily corrected mistakes.
>Redosing Hodch with heavy Sphaler Core exposures, then correcting with Burning Iron to prevent cold shivering or shock states, the operation is maintained, consistent checks on the vital monitor subside, minutes passing quickly, though efficiently.
>Finally shifted to removing those in the liver and spleen, then on to catching tiny specks of crystallized Elementals out of large arteries on the tips of each claw for extraction, as the remaining number become difficult to track and catch, Katyal pauses to close her eyes while you check the monitor.
>00:16AM, over two and a quarter hours from the start.

>Opening once more to study the screen and vitals briefly, she squeezes the Siren's hooves, patting both before kneeling, letting the taffy looking faux-mare sit down to rest.
"Got all we can, take a break. Will give him a piece of Waker in a bit if he doesn't move."
>Arms stretching overhead quickly, then leaning against the chair, Katyal motions for you to replace the caps of each bottle, pausing as the Landbarge twitches left less than a degree.

[1d6+16 = (5+16) = 21] <R-AEHI Interface: Combat Speed, Defensive Maneuvering
[1d6+16 = (3+16) = 19]
[1d6+16 = (4+16) = 20]
[1d6+16 = (2+16) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (5+15) = 20] <EHAD-PDE2 Particle-Laser Unit #1
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <EHAD-PDE2 Particle-Laser Unit #2
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <EHAD-PDE2 Particle-Laser Unit #3
[1d6+15 = (5+15) = 20]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+15 = (6+15) = 21] <EHAD-PDE2 Particle-Laser Unit #4
[1d6+15 = (3+15) = 18]
[1d6+15 = (1+15) = 16]
[1d6+15 = (2+15) = 17]
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9] <Master Piloting
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]

>Ensuring the scuba tank had zero atmosphere, Lonestar turns around, snapping harshly towards the pilot screen.
"Rerculon, what in the literal fuck are you doing?"
>A flat, thoroughly monotone, though unusually pitched machine voice speaks from the pilot cabin, the sound of waves interspersed between each word.
'Defensive fire initiated against aerial hostile, Commander-Lord of Sea. Unknown serpent engaging in offensive maneuvers; target within maximum optimal range. Offensive specifications: nine wings, claws, fangs, unknown particle generation system, unknown system, unknown system, speculative near-radiological offensive system, and unknown system. Predatory, unknown classifications.
Requesting offensive weaponry and lethal protocols against hostile enemy combatant, Commander-Lord of Sea.'
>Performing a second seal check before sighing, he flips the left middle finger upwards, slumping into a sitting position and cradling the tank with both rams.
"Kill it without hitting flora or ground, fire at will. And don't disrupt the rear compartment again."
'Orders logged and affirmed Commander-Lord of Sea. Confirm hostile contact, engaging. Glory to all Gods and Goddesses. Hail the King of Air and Queen of Metal for our acts this night.'
>Two muted, heavily magnetized pulses front and a loud, nearly chugging fusion reaction in the rear occur, all three aiming forwards and overhead.
[1d6+23 = (5+23) = 28] <XPR-Plasma Cannon #1
[1d6+23 = (2+23) = 25] <XPR-Plasma Cannon #2
[1d6+30 = (1+30) = 31] <XPDR2-Plasma Cannon
stopmissingrolls
GM Strangler
!!5uISsUFiZo
b66104b
?
No.391180
>>391179
[1d100 = 65] <Target Morale
Pareidolia
!!0/zxd4nxRI
fe424e0
?
No.391190
>>391179
>Looking at the digital display, Pareidolia notes the 2 hour window elapsing and grabs the roll of Soul Candies as he begins putting away the alchemical solutions. A deep sigh and the rolling of his shoulders were finally permitted as some measure of stability was apparently achieved.
"Understood."

>Ensuring the bottles were all properly capped, he proffers the paper wrapped cylinder to Katyal just as the OT-5 makes a slight deviation in position. He looks towards the pilot compartment in slight alarm.
>Tapping his wrist in a "checking the time" motion and then lightly tossing the tube of candies to Katyal, he briskly steps towards the front cabin.
>The Recurlon's practically quintessential "robot" voice identifies an incoming winged "serpent".
"Shiibo, can you bring up the hostile on viewscreens?"

>Noting the muted sounds of plasma ejections, he slides himself inside the viewscreen canopy of the gunner operator's seat in the event manual fire control is needed. The unusual appelations and appeals to gods and rulers prompts a question to Lone.
*"Corporate religion? 'King of Air', 'Gods and Goddesses'?"*

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TW