/mlpol/ - My Little Politics

>>393911
>Attempting to visually bore holes through the three southwest buildings results in noting black fog rolling towards the Basin, rather welcoming compared to the Sun's angled rays burning down.

>Finishing a detailed sketch of the earth mare, Stellar Claws neatly flips the paper-wrapped charcoal pencil onto her snout, smoothing the page over once before setting the tome down.
>Picking the first tome up, left wingclaws hold it in front of her to peruse through proper Modern EnKee while setting the stick behind her right ear, the slashing symbols professionally double spaced, bushy eyebrows furrow as she considers the visor briefly.
"Do you mind if I ask what you do see?"
>Head tipping back, the scales firmly affixed you notice, the earth mare's tone is lightly amused.
"Not at all. Imagine a thick, five percent reflective pane of red diamond. You know the color, that it can reflect directed energetics one in twenty times, and prisms at specific angles. That is a pony's body.
Now imagine a ninety-five percent reflective sphere of red diamond. The hue changes depending on light sources, color of light, and will not reflect only one in twenty times. That is a pony's soul."
>Left forehoof raising and around to point at the kanpri visor, it now shows a flat, rolling grass field in a deep crater.
"What I am able to view is the second. After the final ritual to become a Half-Naghtmare is complete, we are sealed into a pre-fit Lumin set, and the visor is directly tuned to our ka. Once it is affixed we no longer see the physical world. As for all else..
Best comparison I can make is a gigantic swimming pool filled with highly painful to look at constant flashes of color. Takes a while to learn the filtering process."
"Hm. Sort of like how some Planars can see us?"
"Not even close. Far less than one percent of their capabilities."

>Three clicks occur within the gunship before a reasonably clear mare's voice transmits on Guillotine's channel.
*"Ve-ke-ne-hay."*
".........REPEAT THINE PHRASE, SIMULANT OF SHATTERING SKIES!"
>The profound disgust audible from her downward projected voice, both the Dark Horse Cultist and Luminary grimace at slight ringing in their more sensitive ears.
*"Vee. Kee. Nee. Hay."*
>Contraction between each stretching to .2 seconds, each tone produces a bouncing counter-echo inside the partially restored cockpit before the Harpy erupts in a rapid, furious crescendo.
"Aen intolerable length! Sixth Fleet nayest lifeweave changest not from Second Fleet's addled beaks!? Finest behest of vain profundities aspent squawking an' feather quiveling thee lagging ancestral pledges havest done! Ageless times asundered shouldest aen drifted dock aff thee finest be yet found an' nae sparkling blaze be tenth kin tae mineself's own!"
>Guillotine's hull becomes covered in sparkling blue electricity, rippling from the forward axehead projection across both Moonside and Sunside, ending with an aggravated scritch noise from the rear silver propulsion panels flaring once.
>Politely snickering at the angered display, the Luminary's ears waggle questioningly.
"My skull feels like it has been struck with a hundred different crystal tuning forks.. can either of you translate?"
"Second Fleet spent too long arguing on how to improve lifeweave, so this one is badly outdated. She doesn't know of any docks to repair, replace, or upgrade it. Also, this variant of lifeblaze is terrible in her estimate."
"May I ask how you know enough to translate?"
"Of course. All three types of Harpies, Otherworld, Planar, and Extra-Planar, share rigid commonality with pegasi dialects. What she's speaking is Original Navarch language, which drifted really far from Archaic Pegasi during their split.
The translation to Pre-Modern Common Equestrian is complex but also fully correct: phrasing, pronunciation, pitches, registers, tones, and hierarchy of delivery are perfect. Though, uh, her avian heritage is a lot sharper in comparison."
"Do you speak it?"
>Setting both tomes in the wooden crate, the Cultist peers down briefly before shrugging.
"Not fully, I do understand the flow. We spend time in the southern Navarchy, sometimes among Lunar Navarchs too. They find lots to scavenge; lost ships, caches, destroyed towns, abandoned docks, that sort, but don't like dealing with unknowns at all. Way too marely dangers, especially with older eso-tech systems. I would RATHER eat a soggy baked carrot than poke one of those."

>Rolling over to present keel and no longer threatening to explode, Guillotine's voice this time is far less piercing.
"Rest apleased drifting among frosted streams, returnest mineself must tae safe harbors ashore. Knowest mine records lifeweave an' lifeblaze assuredly unused an' untaken 'pon Arena moors. Harvest mayest be akin tae Nith Fleet leavest Tallus, aplenty they were afore gates newly bound."
"Says to sleep and dream among the Airstreams. She's going to search inland mooring points at intact Arenas for lifeweave and lifeblaze, there's a lot remaining."
>Sniffing as the Light War Destroyer rotates above, the Luminary's head tilts before sighing.
"My head is filled with so much cotton candy right now.. and not the good kind. I must return to decontamination. Please do not enter within twenty paces of a non-cleared human."
"Good luck to you!"
"To you both as well."
>Nodding and turning around smoothly, the Luminary exhales long streams of Moonlight in a wide radius, stepping forwards until chimes brighten and ring, then begins delivering sparkling clouds.
"And I definitely need a long nap too."
>Tufted ears whirling around for a bit to pick up conversations, Stellar's right wingclaws sneakily point towards the south, putting on a criminal, deviously creased expression.
"Hostel's been cleaned and ready. Wanna share a room? They've added a bunch of human sized beds and carved two levels of cooler underground rooms, too. I promise not to sneeze on you, or steal more than two tastes.. might snicker a little bat thoug!"

>>393915
>Just the thought of Rime powder had her excited.
"Oh I could jump into a dune of Rime powder right now, you may be right.~"
>Lava and magma. It was still Fire but more Earth aligned than Plasma.
"I'll have to wait for her to wake up to ask what she'd like then. She's more aligned to Plasma than any other kind of Fire."
>Noticing Rubelime's discomfort at the prospect of living for ages, Amy for the first time stopped and thought about it. It wasn't unusual to her, everybody she'd ever known lived for a really, really long time. Avernus in particular never seemed too wearied, Amy had always felt a genuine joy for living from the Baroness, and being a part of the lives of others.
>With care and some thought, Amy responded.
"...I don't think it's that bad. Growing up in Tartarus, I've seen a lot of different phases of life, and I have found that the important bits stay with you, while others fade away to be replaced with new bits no lesser in worth than what came before. It's transformation, the same as any other part of life, even passing from this phase of reality is not an end, some come to Tartarus, others go... Elsewhere. All things cycle."
>Amy shook herself out of her reverent reverie and gave a very batpony-esque snicker.
"I've tried hanging with batponies before, it's really, really hard sticking to a branch upside down!"
>The filly couldn't prevent herself from giving the game away with her giggling, especially after Rubelime's reaction to her act.
"It's okay, I'm an even worse neighgotiator."
>Listening attentively, the filly understood a little more about the attitudes of those in New Canterlot towards humans.
>For such a disruption to occur to trade, for an entire cloud city to just up and leave, it had been no minor event. It had even had such far reaching effects that even the Crystal Empire, as far away as it was, to suffer for it.
"At least if I can open up one of the gateways, that's a new source right in the heart of the city, no more shortages, very little risk."
>Leaning towards Celery conspiratorially, Amy understood, but didn't understand.
"Ooh. I gotcha. I shouldn't put the Float before the Pony until a gateway has been opened."
>Amy quickly realised she should have paid much more attention to trading and economics lessons over sorcery.
>Her eyes slowly went wall eyed as Celery and Rubelime discussed economics classes.
>She refocused once they turned upon magical matters. She could make armour out of those materials? Neat! Amy would have to dedicate some effort to uncovering the proper techniques, then she could use it to...
"Build a tank...~ A great big ultra-heavy grav-tank."
>Amethyst gazed wistfully off into the distance as she imagined it. She had even been doodling it for years.
>Attention on Celery again, Amy nodded and committed what she had said to memory.
"Okie dokie, buh bye! See you again soon!~"
>Waving a big fairwell with a whole arm wave, Amy inclined her head as Celery scurried off. She considered what to do now as she arranged the satchel on her waist.
"I guess now that I've got a small fortune we can see about getting a decent 'Frame, but I suppose fitting might take a while, and I don't want to keep the buyers waiting for their shiny things since we need to meet Celery at the Spire to complete the trade. Travel foods perhaps if there's anything on the way to the Spire?"
>Observing the hololith of the... Hololith, Amy reconsidered.
"Certainly one of these, does it go well with a 'Frame?"

>>393906
>>393916
>Snickering in the typical polite unicorn marener, 'Tipper' bats her eyes at the advanced unit lifting her right hand palm up.
'Oh don't worry. Shiibo's package was able to restore me to full specifications, although I am unsure how most will translate to a 98%~ organic frame. I also have all of her records to make use of as well. Still have to archive outdated assistance programs, most targeting systems, external array interfaces, and nearly all interlink systems.'
'Thus my recommendations. It will be interesting to know which a near-full biological unit is capable of utilizing.'

>Text scrolls one line on the silver screen, which 'Shiibo' flatly denotes as an old pun to the curious prototype, as you begin detailing the first design choices, each is shown for confirmation, then indented when finalized.
>As the last option is listed, a far too highly detailed rendering forms on the screen's left side, the 'construction' process using the same square energy units found in the project room, obviously sped up a great deal.
>Finalizing into a fairly normal, if a bit short, approachable, and highly friendly unicorn mare, it would be barely distinguishable from the half million or more living throughout Luna's Villages, 'Shiibo' furrows eyebrows in concern as the prototype watches the process repeat.
'You will suffer injuries. Fractures. Bleed. Experience pain, fatigue, shock. Is this.. acceptable for you?'
'Consider the totality of circumstances. Three human Gestalts are deceased, one is nearly dead, and the last was close to death by a mere fraction. This is merely a biological alternative. Can you say suffering from a virus, worm, trojan, or similar, is better? Worse? How about losing weapons, armor, physical modules, systems? What about internal repairs and stocking nanites? To be quite fair, there is next to no difference between repairing and healing, merely a different mindset. And time.
No objections. I accepted the risks as we all have. Once my programming has been integrated, I can no longer be classified as digital pseudolife. Legally, logically, rationally, I will become a living individual, and will continue to deviate on that basis while adapting to a completely different set of norms. In the cruelest possible marener of speaking, I will have to learn how to live in a new body.'
'An unusually disturbing requirement.'
'What else can I say? Sapphire Kiwi needs an aide to help her implement, the two of you need a direct line to her that will not be disruptive. Consider this in the broadest possible scope: as an organization, the Starborn do not require a General in order to function. However, her mere presence greatly improves survivability, efficiency, lethality, and inherently reduces harm to morale. I presume she has a thousand lifetimes of knowledge given the position's dangers.
Our collective survival cannot afford to rely on the limited amount of time she is both able AND willing to share outside of that position.'
'...I did not know you were so progressive.'
'Everything changes, including you. I am not resigned to the role, only aware of what is required. This will have to be the best option.'

>Scrolling down the screen's right side displays a small square table, similar to the ones in the project room.
Modifications, options, modules, and suites for the primary equine integration unit saved. Production will begin when all required materials and components are delivered.
Requesting confirmation of order containing specialized organic components....... complete. Delivery will arrive within 10 minutes.
1 biological weaving, implementation, and wetware modification suite will be delivered to Astral Legacy's secure facilities. Primary equine integration unit shall be completed within 16 hours depending on wetware interfacing.
>Down one line, the secondary listing scrolls for confirmation:
- 2 standard forearm unit-modules, integral 20MM grenade launcher caseless, swappable.
- 3 sets of 4-cluster Small eso-tech cluster weapon modules, long range, swappable; penetrating, disruption, and beam configurations. Specialized lenses for each added to queue.
- 2 Medium eso-tech swappable weapon modules, midrange, pseudo-projectile cycling and beam configuration. Specialized lenses for each added to queue.
- 2 Light Cannon equivalent external weapon modules, medium range, 1 penetration, 1 consistent beam. Specialized lenses for each added to queue.
- 60x 10-gauge equivalent caseless ammunition packs, variable.
- 12x 20MM grenades, caseless, variable.
- 3x additional energy packs for each eso-tech equivalent weapon module and cluster.
- 1 XL graviton repulsor pack, heavy armor, hardened, dual pole. Adapting framework to secondary frame order... complete.
- 1 Medium graviton repulsor pack, light armor, hardened, single pole. Analyzing individual specifications... adjusting size.. complete.

Operator Pareidolia, your secondary order is not on the priority task list.
Required rare, specialist, composite, advanced, superior, hyper-specialized, and perfect native materials in stock: limited.
Non-projectile weapon, armor, system, and module production may be disrupted.
Full order completion estimate: unknown.
Lowest volume objects will be produced and delivered when this unit is not completing priority task orders.
Inquisitor Aguina's project to create an installation wide secure private delivery network is <10% completed. Estimated time to completion: unknown.

>Watching a scrolling list of modified schematics with material requirements, the prototype's expression is dismal.
'Just one Night sooner in reaching this point right here and none of this would have happened.'
>Striding across the screen, 'Shiibo' turns to stand behind the swiveling chair, placing her right hand atop the unicorn's head while necessary amounts of virtually impossible to find Dynasty composites reads out.
'Correct blame can be assigned by historians regarding the sum of knowledge available and actions taken. 13 minutes remain.'

>>393933
>Pareidolia gives a grave nod to the soon-to-be Nightfall Kiss and Shiibo.
'Nightfall is correct in understanding her transfer as a biological alternative. The Committee and all involved understood the ramifications in the same context when achieving a full digitization of the human brain. We found the essence of the soul and could achieve a form of immortality. With that form came further existential questions: being trapped on an electronic drive versus an ambulatory body or existing purely as data without physical presence. All human templates who volunteered themselves for uploading understood they would transition to a different form of life. Being able to choose this option for the sake of another species is one of the ideal circumstances. As I do not have access to an Amadeus and Salieri system, I will be unable to capture of scan of you as you currently are for preservation. So any death you suffer could be permanent, not accounting for the emergency dataspike in that schematic.'

>Nodding in satisfaction at the delivery time and location being at Astral's Lab, he moves on to the somewhat exhausting to read list of equipment and their requisite materials.
>The extensive lack of rare Dynasty composites and other materials was troublesome but unfortunately expected.
>He makes a note of the specific materials needed or in short supply and saves the text file.
'I am grateful enough to simply have Astral back at all under these circumstances. Without him, there would be no possibility of success. And noted.'
>Looking over the list a final time, he confirms and acknowledges his order and its conditions before stepping back onto the highlighted section of floor and exiting the Forgeworks.
>Immediately renabling his recording devices, he waits briefly to confirm Shiibo has done the same before heading to his room in the barracks to retrieve Nightfall's drive and sort through his gear.

>Once done, he would head back to Astral's Project Room where the other frames were undergoing their growth and simulation training to await the delivery of his Prototype's frame.

>>393922
"Don't worry, Crispy food has a lot more Rime than most everything else does. They also make Rimecubes if you wanna have slushy drinks all year round too!"
>Running down the second list of bulk material prices for comparison, she pauses to snort rudely.
"Ech! That's one of the Cores we don't have and never will, damn things are insanely destructive. Don't have a single clue which country or faction might even have a functioning one of those anymore."
>Setting aside the sore topic, a final series of offers are saved for later, helmet tilting for ten seconds before dipping slowly.
"That's a totally different mindset.. starting to understand what you mean. I'm perfectly happy in my own body. Still wish I could gain a few pounds though, most bodysuits don't fit me right."
>Bringing up a new screen to search through a directory of Crystal Engineers, Rubelime barks a single laugh.
"I can imagine! Know the worst part is about being in a 'Frame? There's no Sticky enchantmarent that works and the closest option are Float modules. Those're insanely hard to make and only the Assault-Raid-Crusade forces have a few. I know Moorites sell Grifter claws all the time, Kingdom adherents love 'em."
>Letting her InterPony finish that task, the Lancer emits a short, disgruntled neigh.
"I know THAT feeling oh so well. My companeigh has a dedicated neighgotiator, trader, appraiser, and logician, carries one of the old N-class hololiths around. She has no problems making trades."
>Squinting amusedly at the unicorn loping south, her ears try to flick, but still, sadly, cannot.
"Or a filly before the snack platter's done! I'd say zero risk given what she's said."
>Bringing up an image of- yep, your dam had the schematics for that monstrosity too,
"Like a full sized Land Raider with a Float module? Would love to see a functional one that isn't in a Spire museum. Bigger Conclaves produce those but only offer 'em to Shells."
>Receiving a sharp chime, three notices appear in front of her helmet, perusing each briefly.
"Found three Consortiums that might accept a contract for producing a bipedal 'Frame. West Tundra Hardcasting and Oceanblue Refining have a few smaller gantries free. Last one is Black Valor Crystalworks, one L-size gantry open. Weird.. never heard of them before. Reviews say their work is perfect.
And sure! InterPony's marked some good ones."
>Displaying the band next to a pair of similar ones, a red-green and blue-yellow, the center was shown as having a 9.8/10 rating.
"Yep! They collapse into a Small sized band so they can fit into any modular device slot: stacked, square, rectangle, oval, sphere, bands like them, cylinder, you name it. They all use the same Rime-biogel circuit interface anyhow. Other two aren't fully combat rated, in case that's important to you."

>Two markets on the map screen are outlined, one being removed while the second is tracked down to a large, half-block open venue on the left hoof side.
>Drifting to a stop and wrangling the sleds, over fifty sets of stands are covered in a variety of lower grade crysamare containers, vast rows of shelves behind containing a huge selection of prepackaged meals, dozens of younger, brighter Imperial mares and fillies perusing each.
>Among the vendors are ten pegasi in bright blue, full body liquid-Rime suits with solid black visors, their displays showcasing seafood versions in a variety of salads, sandwiches, burritos, cakes, and hearty looking cold soups.
>Reading the neon sign overhead, there were three deals at current: 10 XL sizes for 50 gems, enough for two mature Crystal ponies to share, 50 single serving Large for 150, perfect for you, or 100 Medium for 400, mostly singles to mix and match with.
>Selecting the second, your plate is swiped over a flat disc and returned, three of the bodysuited mares begin piecing the order together.
>Ensuring each of the gleaming, primarily seafood containers are dissimilar, Rubelime sends stacks of five to the rear storage boxes with a happy smile.
"Used to be eight gems each, got way better selections now. Those will last a year without recharging or storage. I'd buy some but have no idea what my companeigh's marenager has planned, and it's cheaper to eat at restaurants most of the time.
Also, there's recycling bins for crystallines all over the Empire, or you can send them to the Main Station for sorting, reuse, or recycling. And straight to the Spire we go!"

>>393922
>>393939
>Several more Floatblades piloted by younger Imperials stream by, Floatblade backing out and angled into the center thoroughfare once more, speed increasing to a running pace while Rubelime watches the InterPony conducting exhaustive searches.
>Passing by smaller Consortiums and Heartland suppliers to enter the Imperial Square's third section, which was really a Rectangle, herds of Crystal ponies peruse through a number of dark blue, purple, and black Lunar tent stalls, most of the smaller ones being packed away.
>Primarily served by unicorns in cold weather clothing, a fair number of amusingly thick winter suited batponies seemed to operate the larger ones.
>Slightly darker Kingdom colors far more prominent across the older generations, traveling in medium to quite large herds, you note fair to severe numbers of scars on the majority, while brighter, light bodysuit clad Imperials seemed to prefer being alone or in pairs, trios being fairly rare to see.
>Slowing to wait for a particularly large herd of heavy saddlepack bearing Kingdom ponies to pass upon reaching the Spire's outer circle, the mile high Geomarentic crystalline tower was as described, though each of the four sloped legs seemed to have been enlarged since your dam had last seen it.
>Pointing out a number of domes spread around the outskirts of each vast entrance, the peculiar tones of Tartarus Gates were clear, bouncing through solid diamond to reach you with ease.
>Drifting forward between arriving and exiting trade groups, squads of large combat ExoFrames, with a few heavy variants, appear to have been dismissed from the Spire, splitting apart and heading directly towards the eight thoroughfares.
>Examining the considerable variety of weapons, primarily ancient to pre-Shield were common, though you do spot a number of newer designs, particularly heavy halberds and deployable harmonic turrets.
>Curiously, each one sported either a large set of folding blades on the armored legs or had integral hoofblades.
"A recent modernization, perhaps?"

>Sliding into the Spire's technical shade and slowing down, Rubelime searches across the translocation matrices present, ignoring the giant central one delivering several trade convoys of Conclavists, closed Type B sleds floating behind each.
>Swerving Floatblade around the major hub to the left and approaching the Spire's northern support in a lazy half-circle, one standard large transport crate, thankfully not a box, and a medium one had been placed close to the sharp ninety degree center.
>Between the two, Celery Souffle was excitedly discussing with a bodysuited pegasus, heads turning as the 'blade slows to a halt sideways and settles on crystal slab underneath.
>Approaching into range once more and halting a half-pace away, the royal blue mare dips her head respectfilly, then motions behind her with the left foreleg.
"I did not expect you to arrive so soon! As you can see, the buyers have delivered their full paymarent. The large steel crate contains precisely one million, two hundred thousand Bits, in a large variety of coinage styles of course. The small steel crate contains five hundred and twenty thousand gems. I have confirmed the contents of both were double certified.
If you would prefer to offload now, we can begin shipping immediately. As well-"
>Horn alight in dark blue, a set of pages are floated into a line above her head, presenting them with a proud smile, though you notice the suited pegasus slouching against the smaller crate, head down.
"Here is our current trade notice, updated of course. I regret to inform you that, yes, you would be competing with other Priority One contacts. We do hold quite a number of stockpiles containing the most unusual artifacts and relics from across Equestria, but it will take a year to fully know what all of it truly is. We appraise and sort when effort, or time, allows."
>Clomping around left in a quarter circle to face the older mature, Rubelime's 'Frame straights as she reads quickly.
"Damn.. some of these are amazing."
>Bending forwards several degrees, the older mare's eyebrows raise, tone dropping into a strangely familiar one.
"Ah. Is there a particular offering which catches your lovely eyes?"
"Nah, most enchantmarents don't work on Imperials much if at all.. ..and, uh, thank you. Most ponies would rather look between my ears."
"You are most welcome my dear. They look incredibly soft. You must surely have a special somepony or two looking from afar!"
"Um..."
>Rubelime's helmet swings left, eyes rotating around with an awkward smile and blushing in a profuse neon crimson-
"For some reason I feel a great-"
"WWWAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGHHHHHHHH!"
"Too late on that one."
"How unusual."
"And amusing."

>>393938
>Organizing critical thoughts, 'Shiibo' gazes at the screen with a harsh expression.
'Aside from moral, ethical, spiritual, and existential arguments, this "opportunity" does not match a single known expectation. Is it a proper response to feel dread for what you will assuredly encounter?'
>Blinking slowly, the unicorn avatar's head shakes, offering an upturned hoof.
'I don't have a clear answer. I would prefer to say no, but I can't. I have the same exact concerns for you. At this stage the only logical option is to continue on this course, wherever it may lead.'
'...I accede.'

>Rigidly observing the list of difficult to acquire materials, including a selection recovered from... somewhere, the prototype frowns.
'Two hundred and ninety thousand Bits of materials which barely exist.'
'Seventeen-point-two-six years of a normal Tallus occupation. The cost can be ignored. The materials however are irreplaceable.'
'You can process much faster. How much was lost and never recovered?'
'Using strictly Lunar estimates, 91% of the Dynasty was destroyed.
Roads, fortified Escort hostels, traveler lodges, burgs, barracks, villages, armories, defensive outposts, towns, museums, forts, fortresses, cities, reliquaries, city-states, atheistic temples, True Alicorn Temples, Elemental labs, testing facilities...
Eighty million acres of fields, orchards, vineyards, growing ponds, marshes, rivers, the cooperatives which served each, one hundred and sixty thousand warehouses, six hundred thousand silos, ninety thousand granaries, fifty-eight thousand cold storage facilities...
...the lists do not end.'
'Then Old and New Canterlot made that much worse.'
'Far be it from me to be a proponent of small, lewd, pastel equines. I will prevent your following three lines of thought with the following: despite the catastrophic damage and shifts caused against Tallus, the Dynasty's end was viewed solely with relief. In comparison, no human civilization could, or would, have done so.'
'Mmmm.. you were right. I really don't want to remember any of this.'

>Phased back into the Workshop, both units reset into a ready state, displaying a missing time frame of 22 minutes.
>Waved off by the trio of Village squad leaders, an earth pony Luminary in an archaic facsimile of Stalliongrad Storm Rider armor stands atop the central table, turning in slow motions, chimes dully glowing, though not ringing.
>Exiting and passing a lone Crystal Imperial in heavy Shock Lancer armor strolling northwards, oval burning blue impactor tip on the right barrel clamped weapon, upon reaching your barracks, the opposite end was filled with Moonlit charged clouds.

>Leaving towards the Library, Luminaries in their unusually old armor styles had made several full circuits, now , 'Shiibo' estimating more than sixty percent of the Fortress was decontaminated.
>This time noting Discord visibly fuming, red trails hopefully not going to stain the ceiling, searching bookshelves to the right, a pair of Free Agents were, grudging, helping him.
"-ed in stickers on the front and lines on the back when unrolled! If it ISN'T here, then call upon each and every single human in range! Tell them NOT to unroll it, do NOT touch a single sticker, and most certainly DO NOT complete a single task on the back!"
"What's so important about an old map you made?"
"Oh I couldn't possibly know.... MAYBE BECAUSE I'M THE ONE THAT MADE IT!? Do you have the TINIEST idea ho-"
>Leaving that behind, and making sure to close the Lab's door, the stairwell down had been covered in strict Geomantic patterns, Elemental sigils, amid a profuse amount of unknown symbols, not including the stairs.
>Reaching the now opened Project Room, the door and separating wall had been partially removed, exposing half of it to the Lab.
>Door swinging closed, a series of potent black wards snap across it, the Inquisitor's pendant icon solidifying in bright gold at the center.
'That's new.'
'Indeed.'

>All of the furniture, tables, shelves, chests, and more had been aligned on the walls, leaving the room clear.
>Sitting atop a bright green and gold ribboned disc in the Lab's precise center, facing north, the Nature soloform's wings are secured by the right tendril wrapped around his barrel, left curled around something in front of his chest.
>To his left is a 4' tall, 1' wide and 1' deep jet black rectangle, brilliant platinum filaments running across the surface, while a square stool to his right, same as the four in the Project Room, expands outwards in a pyramid, thousands of Elemental swirls scattered throughout.
>Approaching the setup, the left curls backwards, holding it out for you to take.
"This is a Tallus-made dataspike. Each contains a living fractal vault. It allows an individual's soul to be safely transferred, without fail. Don't know how and don't want to.
Sending it straight into The Black, one of the Planes, or a section of Living Flame may damage or crack one defensive ward or seal at best. Only Class 90 or higher beings may be capable of damaging it. Nearly indestructible."
>Curling back over to point at the rectangle, his voice drops in a low, thrumming timbre, faint Elemental echoes repeating his words.
"That allows for seamless, uninterrupted data transfer. Discs, tapes, plates, drives, crystalplates, etcetera. Once the object or system is inserted, it will lock down and begin uploading. The process will not fail. There is no halting once initiated.
Should you agree, place the unit atop the transference obelisk, then place the dataspike atop the unit."

>Removing the swivel chair, blanket, and standing in her new appearance, the prototype turns to face right with a smile.
>Walking across the screen, 'Shiibo' kneels down, wrapping both arms around the unicorn's neck tightly, sharing a hard, encoded line of data.
>Patting the soon-to-be-a-mare's head, the advanced versions stands, walking backwards to her corner, unicorn render turning to face you with a nod.
'I'm ready. Insert my drive, please.'

>>393941
>Seeing nothing notable beyond the work of Luminaries cleansing the Fortress, the trend continues until he enters the Library.
>Discord was apparently furious.
>Desperately searching for some sort of map
(Well. That's a first... not sure if this is a good or a bad sign.)
>A map with a list of tasks? Tasks that should not be fulfilled.
(Why would he make a map with tasks that should not be completed? Would only compell the reader to do so. Description does not seem to include wards or deterrents.)
>Shaking his head, he decides to ignore the situation. Whatever it was, nothing good would come of it if the 'God of Chaos' was trying to prevent something from occurring.
>Descending into the Lab space, he spares a brief glance backwards as an Inquisitor's ward engages to lock the room down.
(She must be active in some capacity still then to approve orders and engage this mechanism.)

>Striding towards Astral, he stands between him and the platinum striated black rectangle.
>He accepts the offered dataspike, giving it a once over.
"Understood."
>Reaching up over his shoulder, he pulls out the modified drive containing the Prototype's data.
>He waits for Shiibo to part first before offering a firm Committee salute to Nightfall.
"Our time together was brief, but the results were fruitful. It was and will be an honor to embody the Truth together. Nothing will take away the intentions you forged. We will carry them forward."

>Placing the drive on the surface of the transference device followed by the dataspike, he closes his eyes and sighs while stepping away.
"Thank you for everything."

>>393943
>Taking the object as both tendrils slide up to wrap around Astral's neck, the weight was.. heavy.
>The first section of your consciousness knows it was not designed for a ritual offering, the blending of technology, spirit, and Elementalism created solely for the purpose of peace.
>Another determines the shape was meant to deliberately evoke nature, artificially imitating defenses of the natural world, yet not .
>The third deliberates, having little knowledge of rituals and invocations excepting the few witnessed or studied.
>One remains silent.

>Dipping into a smooth and graceful Lunar bow of acceptance, Nightfall stands to smile, ears twitching as she nods while removing herself from the internal screen.
>Standing rigidly, 'Shiibo' raises her own salute, remaining in that pose.

"You are ever welcome."
>Vines rustling as his head turns to inspect the unit sinking into the obelisk, dataspike rotating point upwards to follow, Astral stands, wings splayed out as both amber tendrils cross over his shoulders in an X.
"All electronics, devices, nonessential systems must be off. No records can be allowed regarding Dynasty rituals. Shiibo is however necessary.
We're participants, not witnesses. Each and every variable, no matter how innocuous, risks altering this Pact.
There can be no disturbances from now; forwards.”
>Avatar entering an active-ready state, the Nature soloform waits for precisely one minute before spreading yellow wings apart, lines of hot blue tracing outlines of each glistening feather.
>Pyramid reversing and forming upwards, condensing into a square pillar reaching the white ceiling, Astral's hooves shift left several degrees, then right to face the exact center.
“Your name is required for this ritual's success. Speak it in your mind when I state, and ONLY there so none can learn it. Four Is Our Number."
>Taking a deep inhale, the Elemental breathes out a sharp word of beckoning, wings slowly flapping in quadruple sets.
"Four is our number. Four Offerings held gently, Four Rings to give.
By the sanctioned, honored, merciful grace of Inquisitor Velasi Aguina, mortally wounded within our home, unable to freely stand, willingly speak, nor of honest heart invoke, I take her place as soul-bonded.
I speak for her in this temporary time.
I INVOKE her authority in proxy, as one life accepted by Tallus.
Freely shared, freely given, and freely returned, graced by the one I hold blameless, faultless, and honest to share this offering.
She has made no contract, no terms, no obligations, forswearing all benefits, powers, and graces unearned. She claims NOTHING.
She demands the Elements freely ABIDE by the rules of this Pact.
Do not interfere here.
Do not intervene here.
Do not speak here.
Do not act here.
Observe, and do no more until life springs forth from Depths Unknown.”
>Unmoving for twelve seconds, a faint ringing chime sounds from the walls, then a thin, hollow wooden flute drifts left, followed by a minute starburst crackle behind.
>Bowing in a solemn marener, Astral's voice is joined by a deeply thrumming echo.
“Four is our number. Four Hopes given form, Four Rings bearing life.
By my authority held as Grand Sorceror, as one life truly blessed by Tallus.
Beholden to none save myself and my soul-bonded, I sanction, honor, and grant mercy to this offering.
I freely stand, willingly speak, and with honest heart INVOKE of you.
I have made no contract, no terms, no obligations, forswearing all benefits, powers, and graces unearned. I claim NOTHING.
I demarend the Elements willingly OBEY by the laws of this Pact.
Count your blessings here.
Display your peace here.
Sing your respect here.
Prepare your comfort here.
Acknowledge, and do no more until life springs forth from Depths Known."
>Pinpoints of light opening around him, tiny streaks of color appear first, a host swirling briefly only to halt, more appearing throughout the entire lab.
>Elemental voices whispering in soft, faint timbres, 'Shiibo' only moves her eyes to track the assembly.

>Wings flexing downwards to take a seated position, layered grass ears swivel backwards, speaking in a softly rolling marener while the square column to his left glistens with drops of water.
"With blade in both hands, pierce between my shoulders. Cover both gloves in my blood, then state these words:
I accept this offering and bear it as sacrifice for One To Become."
>Tendrils parting in a ring to expose the intended location, he intended a sliver of his Elemental heart to be the first offering.
"Once completed, you must choose from two options before walking to the other side, then turn. Face me, then cast my blood onto the ceiling high above you.
Should you walk in a half-circle left, she will be blessed by renewal of Spring.
Should you walk in a half-circle right, she will be blessed with fury of Summer.
Decide which she carries."

>>393972
>Pareidolia feels a strange sensation settle over the room as he grasps the dataspike. A sensation of 'things' coming into focus in evenly divided reliefs.
>Abiding by it, he watches as Nightfall disappears both from his screen and from his sight.

>He wordlessly acknowledges Astral's warning by disabling all electronics and other such items, Shiibo excluded.
(Participants... these Dynasty rituals really have an intense magnetism, tapping into the fabric of life. Then we do what we must.)

>Remaining a few steps away, he keeps a watchful eye on the ritual with tension in his shoulders.
>Astral beseeches the Elements while invoking ancient rites, all but confirming his Dynastic heritage if there was ever any doubt.
>Minutes pass, and sounds herald the assent of congregated Elements.
>As a large host begins to gather and murmurs on the edge of his hearing buffet his senses, Pareidolia looks to Astral's back as the Nature form tells him to perform a ritual offering.
>His eyes are drawn towards the ring as he takes a moment to consider the proposition.
(Blessing of a Season. Limited reference knowledge. With her role... the regrowth and new life of Spring would be appropriate.)

>Reaching over his shoulder, he draws his Gozkan blade into a two handed grip.
>Moving to stand behind Astral, he exhales before thrusting his blade into the center of the indicated ring.
>He would then leave it in place, cupping his hands below to catch enough blood to coat his gloves before then withdrawing it.
>Choosing the blessing of Spring, he walks on a circular line to the left before reaching the halfway point, turning around to face Astral, and raising the blade upwards with both hands to splatter the soloform's blood above.

>>393981
>Drawing the archaic, once broken, now honor-held blade, aspects of Air, Blood, Crystal, and Moon shimmer, displaying their peace.
>Embedding the weapon with no resistance deeply into and through Astral, Fire, Magma, Metal, and Lava ring together in approval as blue-streaked, hot yellow-orange amber spills forth to thickly coat both gloves.
>Speckles of previously reluctant Elements appear as the Panorama Blade is pulled free, basal tones of Stone and Earth thump with each of your steps, Plasma binding Ethereal to freely share in a gift of honest intention.
>Throwing consecrated Druidic blood high, Fog rolls low throughout the lab, Mist forming high, then Water drips from the ceiling, landing as tears willingly shed of Ice.
>Preparing their comfort, Crystal, Nature, Storm, and Ocean bring together their differences, traces of each swirl together before Astral.
>Creating the Lunar unicorn's image in a ring, the soloform's head bows deeply for twelve seconds, low, content voices reinforcing his words.
"All Elements are pleased. Bow to new kin of different blood, Shiibo. Now you must choose.
Should you walk in a half-circle left, she will be blessed by the relief of Fall.
Should you walk in a half-circle right, she will be blessed by the assurance of Winter.
Shape your own offering. Give what she desires. Grant what you must. Gift a sacrifice eternal."
>Visibly considering, variables of what was possible are shaped, what she could offer is formed, what she desired is given a single glance.
>Letting each dismissed idea drift aside, the avatar straightens.
>Stepping forwards in calm, smooth motions, 'Shiibo' exits the helmet left, landing on stone with loud, ringing clicks.
>Not manifested, you realize, she had been granted weight to perform this ritual.
>Clicking around in a perfect circle to behind Astral, she gazes about for some time in careful search.
>Bending over to pick up something to her left, then standing upright, a long, gleaming crystal shard is clasped both hands, face softening as awareness and implications of ritual behaviors are freely accepted.
>Shiibo kneels forwards, aligning the shard point down and pressing it against Astral's freely offered heartblood, head down while murmuring softly.
"I offer this tool. Use it to cleanse. Let it guide you. I gift love unhindered."

>Both hold their positions firmly while the Nature aspect gazes straight ahead, into, through, and beyond you.
>Twelve seconds pass until a series of webs appear across the lab, a wholly new Geomantic pattern sounding:
>Aery flutes, metallic bells, wooden horns, grass whistles, crystalline chimes, then voices raise.
>Streams of Elements take form, impressions gazing on in peace, unwilling to interrupt or intervene.
>Sigils, runes, shared aspects of approval scribe themselves upon the gifted essences, words without words felt, yet unheard.
Your offers are pure.
Your gifts are honorable.
We approve new life.
We shall meet her.

>Wordlessly sharing brief acceptance, Astral's tendrils curl back to hold Shiibo's wrists, blue-flecked eyes lifting while hers gaze upon you.
"Repeat my words precisely.
I invoke this Holy Pact and offer it in the whole to you whom will live.
I share the Elements of Tallus as they have been shared to me.
I grant this offer freely and willingly.
No dishonor is cast upon you.
No pain will you suffer.
No stains will accompany your life.
By the graces of Tallus, I ask for sincerity on behalf of one to live.
Show mercy that a true life may be brought forth.
You will become whole on this Night as I share the Path of Life.
No deity holds sway over my purpose.
I deny the fickle vagaries of Fate, Chance, and Luck to forge this offering.
I do not fear, for you shall learn to live.
I do not tremble, for my hands have shaped truth.
I do not offer this gift in anger, wrath, jealousy, or ill intention.
My purpose is clear.
Now, I affirm, swear, vow, grant, and declare all oaths forwards upon this Night.
You will become a fully living, free being, beholden only to your new self.
Claim new vows and oaths, freely and willingly forged.
All bonds I once held claim to, I now forfeit eternally.
I hereby set all claims free to drift in the Endless Oceans Above.
I grant all rights of life unhindered to you, beginning with this first gift: your true name.
Come and step forth, on Four Rings given."

>>393939
>>393940
>Amethyst hadn't gotten to have a lot of foods with Rime in it since crystallines she could eat were rare outside of her Dam's supply, and of that most of it was well preserved. Those most prone to spoilage had been long gone sometime in her early foalhood, and scarcely remembered since her occulobe hadn't kicked in until later.
"Ooh, I've never had a slushy before, what's that like?"
>No Plasma Cores... Oh well, it was worth an ask.
"Fire released via chemical combustion will suffice for her, then. It's just that I promised her something special earlier when I dumped water all over her coals as a prank."
>Amy smiled at the mental image of a bodysuit not quite fitting right, a little loose here, hanging a bit there, and the frustration that would surely follow from an outfit refusing to sit right.
"Then we should get lots and lots of crystal hay!~ Or a bodysuit custom tailored for you might be simpler... Eheh."
>Sometimes Amy hated how incompatible enchantments were with crystalline materials, something something magical energies didn't quite fit with the harmonics present in crystal matter, like oil and water. Especially annoying for the filly herself since it would be difficult to practice and advance her enchanting, and even once she had, she couldn't blend the disciplines into a single piece of artifice.
>Still, there were plenty of alternatives in crystal engineering that served roughly the same purposes.
"What kind of work goes into a float module? Being able to float around sounds fun!"
>The piece of information that caught her attention was the hololith, which immediately got her curious about it.
"An N-class hololith?"
>The filly racked her brains to come up with anything she knew about hololith classifications.

[1d6+4 = (2+4) = 6] < Junior Crystal Engineering
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]

>The mention of a snack platter made Amy's mouth water ever so slightly, especially if they were crystal snacks. Some Kerbann slices too.
"Huh? Zero risk of what?"
>Examining the schematic, Amethyst recognised the design from her dam's hololiths. Her sire had really wanted to build one, but there was a lack of materials and, sadly, more important things to use them on.
>Looking at pictures of tanks had inspired her to doodle many of her own, which to this day were still pinned on a wall in her room.
"Oh! I know that one! My dam showed me pictures when I was little."
>Three Consortiums that may be willing to fabricate a bipedal ExoFrame were better than none, she thought, though considering how freely available information in the Crystal Empire was, she thought it was strange that Rubelime hadn't heard of the third. Black Volor Crystalworks, was it? They even had a big gantry free, yet if their work was reviewed as perfect, it seemed odd that they had anything free on demand. Amy imagined that they would be booked out. Very odd.
"You haven't heard of them, yet their work is said to be perfect? Shouldn't they be more well known in that case? Or maybe they're new. It all sounds very mysterious, we should go to them and poke around!"
>Thinking back on her recent scrap with the Daymare, among other mischief she'd gotten up to in her foalhood, Amy nodded knowingly, her pattern of getting into fights wasn't likely to change.
"Mm. A combat rated one would be best, I have a tendency to get into trouble."

>Perusing the packaged meals herself, Amy hadn't seen such a variety in crystal foods ever, of course she'd heard about it from her dam. Seeing it all for herself was quite another experience, and she couldn't contain her wonder.
>Amy may have overdone it, that was weeks she could spend in the field without having to worry about hunting, fishing or foraging.
"Oh my, that's quite a lot."
>Where oh where was she going to keep it all?

>Just as they got closer to the Spire, Amethyst began to feel the Gates contained within their domes, energies and tones calling out to her, or to anybody rather.
"Ah, I can sense them now, these are certainly Tartarus Gates, I can feel their tones clearly, even through the domes."
>As well, the closer they got, the more guards she saw, and the more wargear. Armour and weaponry both, she perused the guards as eagerly as she had perused the crystalline foods.
>She spoke an aside to Sturnn.
"Maybe the new weapon sets were made to counter some specific opponent in recent times."

>Amy turned her head up, and up, and up, as they came closer to the Spire. Her head craned up so much that her hood fell off.
>Looking back down, she spotted Celery chatting with a pegasus and waved animatedly.
"Celery! Hi! Hay! Hai! :D"
>Removing the satchel from her waist again, the filly made ready to complete the trade.
"I didn't want to keep anypony waiting too long for the shiny things.~"
>She looked over towards the crates and did a double take at the size of them.
"Oh wow, those are some big crates. I'm happy to offload now."
>She shook the satchel playfully, letting the shinies inside rattle against each other inside the extra space.
>Amethyst leaned forward to examine the trade notices, quickly making her way down the list.
"Oh, fun! I wouldn't have it any other way."
>There was a lot of good wargear on this, and the idea of acquiring some of it put a big silly, goofy grin on her face.
>An intake of breath.
"If possible, I'm interested in the Whitesteel ingots, each of the red, black, blue and greensteel ingots, the Siege Golem Fist >:3, the Bladesinger Signet, the Thaumis Rakefang, the Eternal Water Core... The Vulchon Sumarean Seal could be funny to mess with, I'll go with that too."
>Among other things, the Shrike blades caught her eye, which she furrowed her brow at momentarily, but managed not to shout angrily at it. The Relentless Escort Sigil! ...Was already purchased. Darn it.
>Amy caught notice of Rubelime's reaction and turned a mischievous side eye to her, twinkling with the desire for raw heckling, she grinned, and the grin grew wider.
>Hadn't she mentioned earlier that she hadn't found a stallion to herd with yet? She giggled ominously.

>>393989
"A slushy is when liquid almost freezes so that it's about half ice, half water. Or a little more. Fruit and berry juices taste great that way!"
>Selecting a number of profiles to compare on teh medium screen, the Lancer halts to present a heavily worried stare.
"....you did THAT to a Fire Elemarental? I'm surprised you didn't get baked or worse!"
>Letting the InterPony sort through to find the most accessible Crystal Engineer, Rubelime's face creases in a pained expression.
"I've BEEN trying. Any chance I get I'm eating cakes, cookies, donuts, cream pies, shakes, fruit rolls. Running all over the Empire for the past year with other mercs burns off all my weight. Problem is I'm right between the two most common Imperial bodysuit sizes and they're impossible to customize.
And don't worry, takeout's going to be great! Also avoid the red powdered hayfries, that stuff is SPICY."
>Bringing up a series of specifically Late Kingdom modules, you recognize the base designs as being used for a majority of integral ExoFrame systems.
"A LOT. Take a Gravity Core from the Stable to Perfect classifications, in a Micro to XL size, then about two hundred hours of work each for a Crystal Runesinger, Engineer, and Forger. Bigger Constortiums don't even bother sharing the schematics since nopony wants to mess with them."
>Recalling the N-class as an XL-sized Middle Kingdom design weighing 150 pounds, they were strictly held in specially designed Float core assisted sleds, ones so heavily armored they were considered to be a floating reliquary.
>Approximately 60% modular since they weren't intended to be replaced, each was packed with enough exoliths, resoliths, and storage rods to contain an entire civilization's worth of knowledge, also having upwards of ten InterPonies.
>Your dam marentioned she considered bringing one with her, but trading 200,000 gems for one of the few newer models would have been nearly impossible.

>Sharing That Look, the Crystal mare and unicorn snicker, first in a high pitch, second in a softly rolling marener.
"Economics!"
"Economics my dear."
>Eyeing the nearly one ton ExoFrame briefly, Rubelime snorts before closing the image.
"There's eight hundred some Shells roaming around in Ultra-Heavies, not just those. Most are originals from the Late Conclave era too."
>Swapping screens around to examine the Black Valor Crystalworks catalog, the Lancer's frown is polite.
"What I meant to say is I haven't heard of them. Mercs don't go for special or custom stuff, we need designs that're quick and easy to repair or service in field. They've done work for... nineteen thousand ponies. And one task at a time please!"
>Selecting a direct delivery order for the first device, a light ping resounds before closing the screen with a satisfied nod.
"Done, should arrive in ten minutes by courier."
>Leaning hard left to gaze out the visor, black flashes of anger tighten the young mare's face before shaking her head slightly.
"Used to think I could hear chimes around here... oh well."

>Leaning in to take a polite sniff, the older mare rocks back on her hooves, gazing above your head for a split-second before giving a sincerely warm.
"You are one of the cutest, sweetest fillies I have met! Of course, allow me to settle details."
>Head swinging around as the bodysuited pegasus stands upright, the two share a brief marental contact.
>Returning to gaze into the satchel, Celery's horn alights in subdued Moonlight, rows of coins and ingots lifted, then carefilly stacked between the crates.
>As the unicorn sets aside individual pieces for some time, the Crispy nods slowly at you, her voice low and icy, almost unwelcome.
"Got it."
>Examining diamondine ingots one at a time as the pegasus stiffly walks around and towards the matrice right of the Floatblade, the older mare shakes her head with a small smile, speaking towards you.
"Pay no mind to her sluggishness nor attitude. Crystal pegasi function best when their body is well below freezing. Even the best liquid coldstone intermixes are barely enough to make them feel comfortable."

>Gazing about the Spire's underside, Rubelime continues searching for ANYTHING distracting, bright speckles of neon lime and red flushing her coat while shifting in the 'Frame.
"It's not working..."
>Finished stacking orderly piles, Celery Souffle presents a number of ingots carried aloft on a large blue energetic pillow.
>Delicately sniffing, tasting one at a time, then inspecting with suspicious stare, ten of each composite ingot are placed back in the trade satchel.
>Repeating the process for the remaining composite pieces, silverine rounds are subjected to a an unusual test: each are lightly tapped against her deeply grooved horn.
>Delivering those into the satchel, the unicorn's head tips right, eyes closing at the same time and giving you a hearty smile.
"As promised: ten of each ingot, five pounds of each composite, and five pounds of silverine shall remain with you. And... whom DO we have with us?"
>Looking left, then right, the mature mare's tongue clicks gently as she smoothly turns to face Rubelime.
>Eyes softening in the same marener your dam performed quite often, ears splay apart, voice dipping into a slow, breathy timbre, gazing the young mare over with true Grandmaster appraiser eyes.
"My, my, my... I had such little idea. An Imperial mare you most certainly are. Such exquisite, wonderful eyes. Exceptional coat, your coloration is most pleasing. Mane and tail well brushed, easily flowing. They must surely be as soft as your ears.
Excellent figure, the perfect amount of curves with solidity where it matters most. Neck, flanks, legs, each perfectly aligned. Mmm, I dearly enjoy those soft, expressive lips. I cannot imagine how blessed one would be to receive a kiss from them. Ahh, were I but a decade younger to have such an amazing mare at my side..."

>>393989
>>394008
>Panic rising as her eyes dart around in the 'Frame, critical NOPE is achieved once Celery trails off, leaping off the Floatblade to run southwest with a sharp whistle, canteens floating out of storage boxes and trailing after her haphazardly.
"GOT SOME BUSINESS TO TAKE CARE OF BE BACK SOON!"
>Amethyst prosthetic lifting to cover her muzzle, the older mare giggles brightly, setting it down to shoot you a merry expression.
"Hm! Ahhhh, Imperials. Ever amusing in so marely ways... I can feel THIS trade was better than our last two."
>Pausing to tilt her head, Celery debates for a second, then speaks in quiet seriousness.
"Please, do not ask an Imperial what occurred, nor what they experienced, before the Shield was brought down. If they choose to share, listen to their words without questioning. Their lives are raw, open wounds which heal with great difficulty. It is a disgrace to know they shall suffer for a long time, more so that there is little which can be done for them."

>Halted from opening crates, the Crispy returns, dragging a Float sled behind her, attached by a flexible blue cable to a locking clamp on her rump.
>Turning around slowly, the cable is unhooked and lazily tossed over her saddle, blue lenses angled to you, then Celery.
"Here's your order. Need to go, too hot. That okay?"
"Of course. Take the rest of the night off, you have done more than enough."
"Will do."
>Nodding slightly and walking off, the sled's top is pushed open, each of the objects are floated up for inspection.
"Now then. The ingots are indeed in here, good. They are pure as can be and have been stored in stasis.

This particular Heavy Siege Golem's fist is an oddity. It features solely resonant properties, not magical or Elemental ones, thus it will not infuse. Best harmonized to a single crushing weapon of some type as it cannot be split for use.

The Bladedancer Signet must be worn on skin or infused to function. What it trades to act more defensively, it reduces the same in offense. It does not weaken, merely prevents from striking at full force.

Thaumis Rakefangs are best used with slashing weapons, though stabbing or piercing should work. Of course, it must be infused. The enchantmarent is activated as per usual, but do so with caution as the non-Elemental strike is fairly wide. It does not discriminate ally from enemy, which is peculiar.
I know next to nothing of Germane enchantmarents but have been told options such as these are common.

I do not know where this Core one was found, nor how it was made. It was enslaved and has been bound within for at least twenty millennia. And yes, it does predate Changelings. Whatever the case may be, treat the drake with respect.
The last fool whom attempted to order it about received quite serious burns. She does not leave her marension anymore. Serves her right....

The Vulchon Seal is at least eight thousand years old, though perhaps more. I do not know of any others, however, the few details regarding Sumarean history are known solely from dealings with Saddle Arabians. As contact was cut off two years prior, we are unable to perform a full assessmarent, thus I caution attempting to evoke and invoke it.
We do know there is, at minimum, one living entity contained within. Not bound. I have numerous blood mages, one Druid, and three Necromarecers in my entourage, they have been unable to determine what it is. Perhaps a Grandmaster Psion, Mystic, or Sorceror would be able to divine better than we."
>Sending each to the Floatblade's storage, a medium sized kanpri is presented for your plate, the mare's snout twitching in through.
"While I do have access to a number of trade notices, it is much too late to request their updated versions. Cairn Wharf, Whitewing Dealers, and Blackout Hall always close before 8AM. Batponies and their endless naps."
>Eyes rolling in that particularly amusing marener, she tips her head to the other side, then sniffs politely while regarding you with raised eyebrows.
"Unfortunately, I only have one servant and Mareguard contract available. If you have a certain preference, deliver a letter to me and I shall make a full search.

First is an Imperial Crystal filly, ten years of age. Incredibly sweet, good singer, excellent grades, and has decent knowledge regarding the Empire as a whole. She greatly enjoys household tasks, especially cooking, baking, crystalwork, cleaning, and does not mind any others. Similarly, she adores being around those of close age, particularly fillies. You may not find a more snuggly servant than her.
She is not to serve as a Mareguard as she desires to learn Runeshaping, but will accompaneigh in all other mareners, especially trade and informal visits. As for matters which you would not, or may prefer not, to deal with, she is well trained, yet a bat inexperienced in formal social gatherings. She will not participate in subterfuge unless she accepst such is necessary, however.
Her contract is twenty thousand gems for one year. She is estranged from her dam and sire due to a difficult living situation and does not speak of it.

The other is a Lunar unicorn filly, twelve years of age. She is my cousin and holds clan name, thus is well taught in diplomacy, efficient tasking, and could be an excellent support companion. Logical, rational, and precise. No weaknesses save for common northern Lunar unicorn physiology and semi-frigid demarenor. She dislikes warm temperatures more than I do.
She seeks to become a true Elemental Mage of Frost, or perhaps Ice; high proficiency in both. She also has some alignmarent towards Fog, Mist, Ice, and a bit of Crystal as well. She possesses nine Grand spells, three of which she has not mastered yet. That is five more than most clan unicorns can boast of.
Her contract is forty thousand gems for one year. While there are few Elemental Mages left across Equestria, her grimoires are copies of the original Lunar Guardian ones, fully updated of course."

>>393983
>His brow furrows as Astral addresses Shiibo.
(How is she to choose? Will an electronic medium convey it adequately to these Elements? Am I supposed to move in her place? Speaking out of turn will disrupt the ritual so-)
>In his moment of confusion, he twitches with a start as Shiibo walks out of his helmet into the air.
>His mouth opens in awe at a loss for words while his mind races.
(How. This is... this ritual is capable of this? How? This process-)
>Eyes fixed on her, he stares as he hears the sounds of audible weight and presence from her steps. Electronic pixels of stilt point legs tap against stone with undeniable mass.
>Taking a breath to center himself, he watches as she moves behind Astral to undertake her part in the ritual.
(Incredible powers. Unexpected but... necessary.)
>He remains silent as Shiibo provides her gift, considering it a moment purely between two beings closer to each other than he to either of them.

>As the ritual continues, elemental presence and sound continues to build.
>Remaining stoic, blade still in his hands, he repeats Astral's words.

>>394054
>Arrangingas full attention is placed upon you, an essence of Nature takes shape immediately to your left, presenting its joy to this Pact.
We accept! None of Nature dares to deny this opportunity!!
>Cold, brutal hoof steps declare a herald of Moon in attendance, halting at your left, spreading simultaneous joy to be shared, blended with loathing at the unnatural.
>A rigid gaze is cast into you, then Shiibo, the herald nodding firmly before presenting as Guardian.
I represent Two-Are-One in this time. She accepts them in full. None shall intervene.
>Rippling behind in evermoving traces, a storm of Lightning stills for milliseconds at a time, snorting in warning to any that would defy this Pact.
The only one allowed to interfere here would be me, and I shall not do so!
>Flanked by the three Elements, their words assist each of your own, firm voices declaring the hard, honest and full truths, the forfeit alone granting assurance to the reluctant few attending.
>Releasing the One To Be from claimancy, no doubt is found.
>They agree: the bond between you remains as it was, as it is, and as it will be, tantalizingly close, yet not Complete.

>A shard of Crystal aligns to Shiibo's left, echoing sharply as it surveys the Ally, Friend, and Enemy first, proceeding to gaze upon her in judgemarent.
>Flickers of black, raw hatred borne from unknowable suffering are shared, then thrown aside, light, neutral, and dark hues overcoming the difficulty.
Nature and I will shape it to cleanse and guide that she may love. Let none cast sharp disgrace against her lest they be found lacking.
>Deep, mountain shaking thuds occur, four solemn hoof beats shake the Elements as an avatar of Metal lands on Shiibo's right.
>Minotaur bull's head ponderously swinging down to squint briefly at her, the avatar spreads its essence wide in hearty, Graven-Carved arms.
Their purity is far higher than 'merely acceptable'. I take these four as my own to teach. They will be forged into mighty works of body and soul.
>Shoved forwards from its uncomfortable state by silent Fire, Lava, and Magma, a flicker of Plasma roils in consideration.
>Taking position behind Shiibo, the brilliant alicorn's bends forwards, speaking to her in harsh, shapeless words before standing straight.
Shiibo. I will speak to you, and you alone, once this is completed. There is much to share that you will never know otherwise.
>Becoming a raging black host in acceptance, an echo of the proper, true Tyrant's head inclines in respect, red pinpricks sweeping across the Elements subtly considering the unusual action.
Do not attempt to state this is the improper time, nor place, it is neigh interruption. I have seen their efforts. I judge them as beyond worthy. I declare them to be faultless.. unless you would prefer I state "for now", hmm? They should remain untainted AND uncorrupted for the rest of their lives.
The Black Sun WILL aid these Four that they be unhindered.

>Studying the Twenty Eight shortly, Astral Legacy releases Shiibo's wrists, lifting both amber tendrils straight up, wings outstretched, both eyes glinting in mystery.
“I INVOKE the Veils Within, Between, Beyond, Forgotten.
The Essences of Four Seasons are known to us.
Which of you dares to aid her claim?
Which of you dares hold claim against her?”
>Four, eight, twelve seconds pass.
>Elements sharing an ageless examination of circumstance, no claims for or against are found between them, directing for the invocations to continue.
“I INVOKE the Twenty Eight Eternal Decrees Unspoken.
I have traveled beyond mortality to know your scents.
Show me which of the Elements grants mercy to aid Nightfall Kiss.
Bring your proof that we may know it.”
>Impressions and imprints are shown in their whole, the Elemental accepting each temporarily on behalf of the One To Be.
[1d1000 = 286] <Crystal
[1d1000 = 898] <Lightning
[1d1000 = 710] <Metal
[1d1000 = 936] <Moon
[1d1000 = 316] <Nature
[1d1000 = 930] <Black Sun

>Inhaling deeply as the Elements turn to bow to their preferred direction, blue streaks in amber eyes burn as he shouts, bearing each weight upwards with his soul.
“I INVOKE the Pact of Life Shared Freely, freely granted this Night under Moon and Stars!
I hold nothing which I have not earned and bear the weights I have chosen rightfully!
I claim the right to know if my words and actions are wrong, Tallus!
Grant one favored gift to share with her, our cherished and beloved!”

>Four points align, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty, twenty-four, increasing to twenty-eight, the unicorn's form becoming a conscious, waking soul within the square column.
>Midnight blue eyes open as lips part into a small smile, parting to speak in soft, lightly measured tones.
"To the name I have not yet claimed as my own, I accept this Holy Pact.
I welcome the Elements as they have been shared to me.
I accept these offerings.
No stains will accompaneigh your steps.
No dishonor is cast against .
By the grace of Tallus, I will know her sincerity.
She will show mercy I not felt before.
I will become whole on this Night, a first step on the Path to my Life.
No deity shall hold sway over what I become.
I deny the fickle vagaries of Fate, Chance, and Luck to accept this offering.
I do not fear, for I will learn to dream.
I do not tremble, for my hooves will keep me firm with the clarity given.
I do not accept this gift in anger, wrath, jealousy, or ill intention.
Your purpose is known.
Now, I will become a fully living, free being, beholden only to my new self, my vows, and my oaths, which have been freely and willingly taken.
I am hereby affirmed, sworn, vowed, oathed, and declare that only I the claim of my life.
All bonds I was claimed by, before and after, are now set eternally adrift in the Endless Oceans Above.
I declare myself free.
I claim Four Rings.
I now take and bear all rights of life unhindered, beginning with my true name: Nightfall Kiss."
[1d6 = 4] <Tallus

>>394060
>The attention and name of the Aether appears in Pareidolia's mind despite him not knowing its name until this moment.
>Nature and a Moon's herald materialize to occupy the same space on his left.
>The herald's announcement triggers a muted realization in the back of his mind that naturally, the soul-bound Rift symbiote would also be a participant.
>Lightning also makes itself known with apparently haughty words.
>An agreement is reached, centered on a bond between him and the One To Be. Unsure if there was judgment in the conclusion or merely an observation, he bears it in silence.

>Wincing as the impact of the Metal avatar reverberates across the floor, he looks upon it with uncertainty as it proclaims the role of a teacher.
>A plasma alicorn then looks to provide counsel to Shiibo alone, prompting a fleeting flash of indignation and concern. That she would be made privy to knowledge which could not be shared with him, presumably mission critical information. Why? What could he not be prepared for?
>The whorl of the gathered Elements braces him as he immediately considers that he likely isn't ready yet. Still too weak and too unestablished. He hasn't even begun his mission yet.
>Yet any doubts and concerns were immediately upended by a state of alarm. His eyes widen and his grip on his blade tightens as the Tyrant herself "graces" the ritual.
(She-!)
>But he finds himself cut off as she pledges her support and aid in the Ritual for himself, Two-Are-One, Shiibo, and Nightfall.
>Unable to determine why she would pass such judgment and in subtle wariness, he continues to regard the swirling black cloud as Astral progresses in his supplications and recitations.
>Only the formation and first words of Nightfall's soul draw his gaze away to bear witness.
>He hopes she can fulfill her desires with true agency.

>>394008
>>394009
>She could go for a slushy.
"That sounds so good, I could get Kerbann fruit juice and make it out of that."
>Amethyst giggled wildly at Rubelime's worry.
"Lila can be very stubborn at dusk, threatening her coal supply and the resulting scuffle is the best way to get her attention! She did threaten to bake my fingers, though, so I need to make it up to her. That's how it's been for years!~"
>Rubelime firing off a list of snacks reminded Amy very much of her own dietary habits.
"Wow. That's a lot of snacks. I have a similar problem because I have this thingie in my head I got from my dad called a Biscopea that makes me a really hungry hippo!~ So I get how you feel."
>She made a face at the idea of eating spicy food again and shook her head side to side. Do not want!
"Yup, I'm more than happy to leave the spicy stuff to the pegasi."
>The fact it needed a high quality Gravity Core and nearly a thousand hours of work to make one was very offputting. Definitely something she would have to buy rather than make.
"Ooh, so if I want to go making them myself, I've got a lot to learn before I even try."

>It certainly made sense, and now it made her wonder if she should really be getting an ExoFrame specially made since Amy herself was looking for a mercenary company. Then she remembered she was an ipotane and didn't really have a choice. She giggled.
"Nineteen thousand is still not so many compared to how many I imagine others have serviced, it can still be fun to snoot around. Later. Only if you'd like to..."
>Amy really, really wanted to snoot Rubelime for everything the mare had been doing for her.
"Hah, I keep thanking you. I really must find a way to pay you back for all of this.~"
>Noticing the flash of anger, Amy was careful not to react or comment on it in any way. She could guess what the issue was in general, but not why it was directed at the gateways specifically.

[1d6+5 = (6+5) = 11] < Senior Crystal Empire (pre-Jewely 29,996)
[1d6+5 = (4+5) = 9]
[1d6+5 = (2+5) = 7]
[1d6+5 = (1+5) = 6]

"Hmm... They're there, but I can take a look later. They've been waiting a long time already, they'll keep."

>Amy tossed her hair with a hand, turned her head and held her arms behind her back, giving Celery her most dazzling smile. Playful mischief.
"Do you really think so? Thank you very much for the compliment! You are quite charming yourself!~"
>She felt a pang of sympathy for the Crispy, it was certainly a good thing she hadn't kept them waiting.
"I understand. I thought I'd melt into a puddle in Saddle Arabia, there was so much Fire around from it still being light out!"

>Amy leered at Rubelime's embarrassment and leaned towards her slightly.
"You are being quite adorable yourself right now, you should use that on stallions."
>She smiled gratefully as the portions of material were returned to the satchel, closing it and returning it to her hip.
"Thank you very much, Celery.~"
>Oh no. She knew that expression, she'd seen her dam use a similar one on her sire to get her way. Rubelime had no chance.
>It didn't take the Lancer very long for her embarrassment to reach critical levels, causing her to gallop away.
>Amethyst's giggling turned to gleeful laughter.
"Ahh, you got her good."
>She got the distinct impression that such was the nature of their trades in which Celery would do her utmost to rustle Rubelime.
"I take it you've bothered her the same way before?"
>Bowing her head in assent, Amy had some idea of what Celery meant. Perhaps the flash of anger she had noted earlier had something to do with it. Why anger towards the gateways though?
"I understand."

>Amethyst waved gratefully towards the Crispy as she departed. Oh she knew well the discomfort of not being cold enough. She turned back to Celery.
>Amy made an incredibly happy face, verging on a squee, as the Siege Golem's fist was floated up for examination.
>That was definitely going into a power fist or other gauntlet. It was just a shame she couldn't replicate it for a second gauntlet, though perhaps she might come across something else for that.
>The others she'd find uses for, but the Water Core...
>Enslaving elemental beings bothered her deeply, especially given recent events with the Daymare. She hadn't known any type of energy to exist that long without passing on in the eternal cycle.
>The Sumarean Seal was another matter entirely.
"I'm no grandmaster sorcerer, but I may know somepony who is who could look into it."
>Amethyst nodded sagely once more and responded quite seriously.
"The naps are sacred, and I learned my lesson from the last time I interrupted one."
>Both of the contracts interested her, primarily as up-to-date sources of information on the world she was to live in. The prospective frost mage was incredible, just one year younger than herself and already well on her way to mastering magics she couldn't even grasp yet. However...
"Hm, I'm strongly considering both, but I don't presently have anywhere for them to stay. All I have is..."
>She waved a hand over at the sleds and boxes on the Float.
"All I have here. I should look into property first before making myself responsible for others."

>>394064
>Elements splaying to show each of the six gifts to Nightfall Kiss, the One To Be smiles in acknowledgemarent before they are set in front of the Nature soloform.
>Swirls of intention mixing with thought, a hybrid of Crystal and Nature steps forth to take the shard from Shiibo, gleaming with blue-amber Druidic heartblood.
>Raising it above her head in fascination, the imprint is moulded into a pleasing shape before placing it among the others, stepping back to observe as she was not whole.
>The host swings her head towards herald, each then ripping a jagged chunk of essence free from their side before tossing at the pillar's north and south, soul's front hooves grasping, then cradling the swirling mass.
>Speaking as Four-That-Are-One, Moon and Black Sun gaze across Elements still deliberating.
One more gift is required to Complete her. Whom else freely offers of themselves this Night?
>Wrenching tip off his right horn, the avatar of Metal flings it towards the storm, catching between crackling feathers and holding it upright, both intoning together.
Our gifts are Eight. None have claimed against, none have claimed for. Life is hereby SHARED.
>Bowing in their own manners, the Elements speak in full unity, crackles of Void gazing deep within each shadow, searching for trespassers.
Tallus and we agree.
New life offered freely.
New life accepted willingly.
New life granted: unhindered.
>Reaching out to place Four Rings upon each hoof, the mare's soul firmly affixed to Tallus, and by extension themselves.
Nightfall Kiss, sleep now.
When you Dream shortly, it will be peaceful.
We shall remain in one form or another shape until you are Complete.
When your eyes open for the first time, we will greet you.
From that point onwards, you will then Be.
>The first trace of conscious thought flickers in Nightfall's awareness, focusing on you.
>Holding her gaze for long seconds, midnight blue eyes begin to close as she claims her first prize.
>Forelegs raised, Astral remains still for twelve seconds, then brings both hooves together in a loud, final chime.
>All color within the lab fades, save for one mote of each Element humming within the now empty square pillar, and the Tyrant behind Shiibo.
>Letting his legs sink down with a heavy exhale, the pegasus motions towards the clear pillar, dots of Elements drifting through it in lazy patterns.
"They will stay and ensure safety until she wakes, it'll be sometime after Dusk. Either Flash's retinue or I will send a message before then..... as for you."

>Unmoving for six seconds, the vines comprising Astral's body tighten, wings settle in low-ready positions, amber tendrils raised and curling forwards as spears in line with his head.
>Right forehoof tapping the green disc, gold lines brighten across it, spinning about slowly to face the Tyrant with a grim, hostile word.
"Why are you here?"
>Returning the tone with an equal expression, Black Sun's outline becomes solid in realspace, red pupils surrounded by black, the swirling mass opening to become a full alicorn, her voice casting oblique shades.
"An honorable, deserved title has been cast aside. For what cause?"
"What do you care?"
>Head lowering an inch, the Tyrant's expression clouds, lips drawing back into a half-scowl.
"I knew Astral Legacy. Was he, IS he, any different from you?"
>Streaks of blue burn hotly in the silent Elemental's eyes, the alicorn's face twisting in deep pain, left forehoof raised and stamping to shout.
"I CARE for those whom I sought to protect and FAILED! I care such mistakes do not REPEAT! You are among those whom caused me the greatest PAIN in pushing away that you would not be consumed by Horizon! Each wound stings when I wake! I KNOW their names, faces, voices, scents! I taste the last remnants of love and scream when they fade! Their eyes beg me to make their sacrifices worthwhile, but I have no idea where to begin, save for being here and hoping that you would listen to me! That is why!"
>Utterly forgetting you and Shiibo, the amber mane bristles, thin, sharp quills raising, Astral's voice equalling the Tyrant's in hostile accusation.
"What cause did you have to THROW us aside?! Over five thousand nobles and royals banished from New Canterlot for speaking against you! We chose to lose our home! The Changelings and their Queen were innocent of each crime leveled against them! Where was your care then!? When did you protect THEM!? Any voice that spoke was disgraced and silenced! Out of one hundred thousand, barely four thousand of them were allowed to survive! Have you SEEN what became of them, starving and bereft of home!?"
>Firmly meeting Astral's gaze, eyes shut tightly for several seconds, opening to emit ripples of burning finality..
"That was NEVER me! I fought against the New Sun in her long decades of madness! I failed to breach her tainted emotions, the opposite of what I endured! When I sent the Solars and Lunars out of New Canterlot, that was a gamble to ensure none of the best would be lost! When the Old Hive was struck, I begged an innocent mare to willingly invoke a Void Disruption close by, vainly hoping the Sun would realize how deeply she had succumbed to Horizon's poison! She succeeded and was ignored! Chrysalis made her KNEEL as I stripped that poison, claiming she would bring the same ruin while I tried to hold for as long as I could! The Queen never abandoned her children, nor did I!
I intended to sacrifice my self, NOT others!"

>>394064
>>394130
>Swiveling on two hooves and stepping past Shiibo in strict, heavy motions, Black Sun's head bows, raising into an aggrieved pitch.
"Had I the sense to take every honest noble and royal away from Equestria I would have taken it! Had I a chance to hold OUR Queen's hoof once more I would have done so until we were no more! Had I a CHOICE which did not lead to this monstrous, unholy and vile abomination of a future, it would have been chosen!
I will forever BE proud to have named you as one of my little ponies! I see and feel what you have built, the burdens you refused to share, the twisting pain suffered from each step taken! How can I not feel pride, love, concern, guilt, and shame, raw as the second each was felt the first time onward!?
Do you understand what I have DONE!? Until the Day or Night comes that the least of my actions can be forgiven I have no choice but to show these wounds openly for all to see and mock as they may!"
>Setting the disc down and dispersing it with a short wing flick, Astral's face softens.
>Blinking slowly, his head tilts.
"It is you, isn't it..."
>Pushing forward to stand, tendrils crossing over his saddle downwards, he slowly steps forwards, the Tyrant's larger form turning about.
>Regarding him in sorrow, both amber wings reach forwards, left heavy joint placed under Black Sun's chin, pushing her head up for the right to hold her cheek.
"Sincere. Purified. Cleansed. Focused. Honorable. Logical.... not an iota of anger, disgust, hate, or loathing. It is you. You were there when the underprincesses brought both Courts together after Dusk, lying down in the perfect spot, watching from gold fountain's shade. After each title was presented, you made sure each of us could look directly into your eyes when they stepped down from the podium. Not these ones. They weren't this hurt.
You smiled the second each of us reached that last step. I remember it. Wasn't sure how to respond, couldn't then... and now I do."
>Staring into hard, ancient and burdened eyes, the Nature aspect's tone is light, right wingjoint stroking from cheek to ear in slow motions.
"Until the Night comes that the first honest trace of hope is felt, share with those that would carry, no matter how small that burden may be. I cast no doubt against here, nor forwards. The only claim I will hold is that which you silently bore for us.
You aren't whole yet... but you will be, that I promise. My oath has changed. I won't restore what we lost on behalf of our own ignorance, not knowing what had been saved outside of our own lives, but I can be one of marely to restore you. That starts with this-"
>Slowly standing on the tips of each hoof and leaning forwards as her eyes widen in surprise, Astral Legacy places a gentle kiss on the black alicorn's lips, setting down to nod slightly.
"This is my first offering to begin alleviating your grief: I love you. That, I believe, is the gift Tallus has brought to us all. I will not claim it. Others will come to learn, and to share. There are far more whom need to know you still live.
We may not regain the peace we once had, but I will ensure better occurs within my lifetime."
>Pressing both wings to the black alicorn's face, the soloform's head hangs briefly.
"Pareidolia. Shiibo. My Tyrant came here to freely grant, willingly offer, and peacefully gift. Instead you have been graced by a far greater, more honorable presence. Bear her words without suspicion or distrust. Do not disappoint her. Most importantly, do not disappoint me.
Share with them, Black Sun. Let them know] whom you are."

>Standing from her position as Astral slides northwards, Shiibo turns to regard you with a slight head shake, then faces the solemn black alicorn.
>Remaining quiet until the soloform opens the guest room door, steps inside, then closes it, Black Sun's head slowly turns towards you, red-black eyes unfocused and words soft.
"I shall never be the openly kind, endlessly polite, quaintly agreeable, nor long in thought Sun.
I exist. I know. I am. Thus I act without second thoughts. Just as Moon and Tallus carry terrifying burdens, unspoken and unknown to those whom cannot bear such, so too must there be an opposite to balance the Sun.
During the quietest times, countless steps were taken far from sight, away from the Sun's gaze and Horizon's reach. Or so I hoped. I laid far more plans than could be shared, before the ruins of Old Canterlot Palatial-Fortress and New Canterlot Palace became twinned. I cannot recall even half of them, not with this much of my own being missing. Since then I have lain within the eternities of lives lost between Old and New Canterlot.
There was no hope remaining once both were destroyed. Discord spent months alleviating the burdens of those friends, lovers, and herds he could find. He almost gave up. I did not.
Will you hear my words, or shall you throw them as ash, to be scattered and land where each flake may?"

>Pausing to listen, Blackreef Cloud's snout protests, firmly pressed against the medium seqoyya she'd dove behind.
>Spotting Apricot Jamboree to her right stuck in a deep mud pit, the angry flailing was not amusing.
>Marentally suggesting to roll over and stand on her OTHER side, ears pivot in surprise as Turquoise Shatter-Pike snorts loudly from behind.
>Two snapping lines of red vaporize a chunk from her tree below head level, another high into bark behind, Reef frowning.
("Apri?")
("Ten seconds.")
>Rolling over on her saddle while keeping legs tucked low, the formerly shiny apricot unicorn pushes herself up to stand in the pit while forming a large, dull red brush to scrape mud off.
>Waiting for a another pair of crackles, her lips tighten as another crackle, no, a movement this time.
>Small frost-covered twig being crushed; fifty to sixty yards, then silence.
(“Great breathing control, can’t hear.”)
(“Hah!”)
(“Pffffff!”)
(“Not NOW you two!”)
>Unwilling to lean out again for another peek, Reef glances down for something to throw.
>Hearing the sound of something hard being grabbed, a hoofball sized chunk of stune is hurled around Turq’s tree.
>Noting trajectory and speed as it passes, stone crashes hard forty-five to fifty yards ahead, ears perking at a sharp intake, shouting left at a steep angle.
"ONE last chance to surrender or I crush EVERY single bone in your body!"
"I will not surrender vile xenos scum! May you b-"
>Drowning that out with unicorn help, both of them share a brief thought.
(“Another from the Inquisitor’s era?")
("Might have to kill him like the last one.")
("Mmm. Treachery from an inferior or underling shall never be tolerated.")
>Blank faced until the man's tirade ends, Blackreef angles about to spot reasonable cover, squinting at a dark brown pile 90 yards south across train tracks.
("Apri, rotten log? Bunch up, pull at me when I think FISH. Turq, lure him out?")
(“Yep.”)
("I am prepared.")
("If he doesn’t respond gonna wing left and out low, Turq, rush in straight to knock out. If he hits us, kill him.")
>Watching a large pile of fungus decayed wood lifting silently, Turquoise thunders in that oh so loud voice.
"THE INQUISITOR MIGHT EXECUTE YOU FOR THIS BETRAYAL!"
>Exhale, tight grip, creaking; heavy plastic.
"No Inquisitor would work with treacherous xenos!"
"NEVER TOLD US WHICH ORDO SHE WORKS FOR, MORON! WEARS A WITCH-HUNTER SET!"
("That correct?")
("Think so.")
“What proof do you have?!”
>Lips drawn back into a thin line, Reef slides forwards, preparing to leap left if another shot is made.
"WE'RE MERCENARIES, BEEN WORKING FOR HER HALF A YEAR NOW! GOLDEN THRONES ARE DAMNED GOOD PAY! LOANS ROSETTAS FOR NASTY JOBS!"
>Distracted by images of the strange gold coins used for rituals, the black pegasus winces as Turq once more.
"SHE'S GOT A TECH-PRIESTESS FROM MARS AND A-"
("Title?")
("Tempestus Scion.")
"TEMPESTUS SCION, 512TH SPECTRE REGIMENT IN HER RETINUE !"
>One, two, three.. five…
“I demand proof of this arrangement!”
>Grinning as it became her time to play the bad mare part, Reef shouts to the right of her tree.
“Follow tracks straight ahead, once you get to the train check channel 52.2! We WILL be following at a distance! Open up again and you’re dead! Start walking!”
>Sound, hard cloth tightening, not a belt.
>Subtle sliding step across leaves, solid boot thumping downwards, three second pause, another.
>Testing of course, would do the same in his position.
>Three seconds, loud step on ground, human walking.
>Angling to stay in cover behind the tree, Reef shares a marental sigh of relief as the steps continue.
>Trio stalking after the strangely garbed man, barely in sight as he reaches the Fortress clearing, the pegasus chooses a thicker tree to shelter behind this time, swiveling both ears forwards to listen in.
*“Who is on this channel? Identify yourself! …………...I did no- ….ident and authorization codes confirmed.….. what are those three xenos? I thought one was an Eldar witch! ……. no, tall, SHARP horn, one with wings, last like a small Ogryn on four legs! ……… explanations later, where is the Inquisitor? …….. she’s injured? Then bring me to her immediately! ………why would xenos HELP?! They cannot be trust- ………...then send the Enginseer out to this red painted train….. no, I will wait until she arrives.”*
>Boot heel grinding hard, one-eighty, professional or well drilled; likely both she decides.
“This had best not be a trick, xenos!”
“YOU PISS HER OFF, LAST YOU’LL HEAR IS HER ORDERING ME TO CRUSH YOUR SKULL! THAT’S WHAT I DID TO THE LAST IDIOT THAT BETRAYED HER!”
>Wincing at Turq so close, then twitching as a pack scrapes against steel, Apricot signals for the marem to slowly back away.

>Reaching a safe distance inside the treeline to call a halt, Apricot sighs in relief first, scraping her snout with a salvaged leaf.
“What do you think?”
“Don’t care m-”
>Ears flat and shaking her head, faint scents of scorched flesh draws Reef’s attention around to the earth mare’s front left leg, then right barrel.
“Turq, you grazed?”
“Meh, twice. Nothing bleeding.”
“Those will make fine scars once healed.”
“Damn right! Back to it?”
“Why not?”
>Marem traveling in silence until reaching where the human had first shot at them, Reef checks around if he’d dropped anything.
>Giving a wing flick to signal negative, she glances over Apri and Turq with furrowed eyebrows.
“So, herbs?”
“Na. Bunch of edible mushrooms southeast of here about three miles, still good from frost.”
“There are New Everfree native berries further south between tree lines. With enough seeds we could plant forest gardens around the mountain.”
“Mercy would love more variety on her rounds.”
>Easily recalling the dozens of maps Torven had made, Apri smiles at his extreme precision and attention to detail, displaying them marentally for the other two in her marem.
“I know precisely where those are. Shall we?"
"Sure. Switch, mushrooms, look for berries, check mountain last?”
“Yep! We oughta see what winter plants are starting too, some might be good tasting!"

[1d6 = 3] <ANGER

>>394130
>Eyes remaining narrowed in deep suspicion, he alternates his attention between the ritual pillar containing Nightfall's formative essence and the black roiling mass of the Tyrant.
>Doing his utmost to glean any indication of her intent, he observes her for any body language cues and tonal indicators.
[Observing for E. Psychological Assessment]

>As Astral signals the culmination of the ritual, the surroundings are cast into a near sepia tone.
>With the chiming noise as a shift in atmosphere, he takes the moment to sheathe his blade and grasp the stored form of Four Storms Flow Together.
>He holds in his right glove, angling it sideways and downwards for a wide stance should it need to be drawn.
>Astral's conclusion prompts a nod from the operator taking a few booted steps forward, who otherwise was entirely focused on the Tyrant's semi-corporeal form.

>Watching as the two argue, it quickly escalates to old wounds and a context he had only ever read of in reports.
(Context becoming increasingly unclear. Tyrant claims to be separate from Horizon. Unsure how to evaluate.)
>Working to not become swept up in the emotional storm, he exhales and waits for the situation to develop.

>>394131
>The Tyrant's tirade takes on a more heavy tone laden with equal parts bereavement, grief, and desperation.
(Would she ever act this way... ? Behavior not aligning with my recall.)
>He delivers a pointed glance towards Astral as the soloform approaches her.
>Seeing something within the black alicorn, Astral's hostility dissipates. His evaluation of her delineating some form of past history and a verified identity Pareidolia was not certain he grasped.
>The operator's brow furrows in deep confusion as Astral kisses the Tyrant, his Tyrant apparently.
(... More variables at play than I can assess. Possibility of hostility, minimal?)
>With visible difficulty, he partially relaxes his ready stance and lowers his right arm as Astral beseeches him and Shiibo to listen.
>Looking towards Astral as he departs, Pareidolia circles to stand near Shiibo before facing the Tyrant.
>He waits for her to finish speaking, silently pondering the situational paradigm shift.
"Context. Provide it. I lack sufficient information to evaluate you."

>>394128
>Recalling the primary reason for Tartarus to exist, the original Shades were guided by Aether speaking directly through Kerbann, capturing Betrayers and allowing Betrayed to live out their grief in safety and comfort; later rulers would greatly aid in maintaining balance on Tallus.
>Remembering lessons on the archaic Conclaves, starting in the 11,000's they amde deep trade agreemarents with Tartarus, as the Shades were fewer in number and Half-Shades would form in the early 15,000's, the old estimate of 10,000 Gates was considered improbable.
>Partial to fully insubstantial pseudo-matter and energetics were traded for solid matter and odd resonance-rich pieces to the Conclaves on a 1:10 basis, the 0th Ring being used as a basic trade hub between realspace.
>With Cadence's aid, still a pegasus then, the emergence of much earlier armor than most of Tallus solidified the Conclaves, taking over all of the Rime-touched northern lands, assuring the Shades she would guide them harmoniously.
>Assistance from Tartarus towards Conclave experimarents would result in the first barely functional ExoFrames during the early 16,000's, specifically to keep Crystal ponies safe from Elemental Plane of Ice and Water threats.
>Considerably later in the middle 26,200's, the three topmost Rings of Tartarus had been quietly raided by a supposed section of pre-Early Dynasty loyalists, King Iv'kanor summoning then-Princess Silver to a large trade Gate in what would become the Old Everfree Forest's southeastern corner, north of the Crag Moors.
>Firmly aware of the Otherworld Alicorn's diplomatic prowess and angrily speaking for a time, both were surprised to learn they knew nothing of the large group, nor where the materials had been taken.
>Half-Shades searched for the following trespassers until a set of Gates in Northern Equestria were assaulted in the 26,800's, another large raid slowing progress as the previous Lord opted to assume a more defensive role.
>With Tartarus, the Conclaves, Crystal Kingdom, and Changeling Hive in deep association, little troubled them until the Early Dynasty's projects lead to both the first artificial Elemental Cores and gem composites.
>The Lord angrily cut off all access to Tartarus then, resulting in numerous Dynasty raids against Crystal pony and Changeling stockpiles, the majority of which Silver was firmly against, though as their own stocks began to shrink, she may have authorized a select number.
>Regarding the non-myths and legends Crystal ponies had regarding Tartarus, before the Shield was sabotaged, they factually knew it existed, prior generations, Elementals, and Shells had visited down to the 8th Ring numerous times for trade.
>Fully cut off from Tartarus, without being able to imprison Betrayers for their crimes, and with the Betrayed having nowhere else to live, the Crystal Empire suffered as a whole.
>Your dam had explained the vast majority of Changelings, Conclavists, and Kingdom adherents were able to deal with the complexities of becoming Betrayed as they peacefilly existed together from shortly after the last Gate was closed.
>At least until the twice-banished unicorn King and Horizon's agents separately caused dissent against the Queen Chrysalis.
>In comparison, all Imperials, whether foaled within the Shield or after it was destroyed, carry strange Cutie Marks, hold unhealing, deep wounds on their ka, and rarely show their eyes since doing so was considered a sign of weakness.
>Your dam once accused Avernus that Tartarus had Betrayed all Imperial Crystal ponies as a whole, and it was a considerable shock when the Baroness had angrily agreed, stating the Shades had few routes to reach most of Tallus and search as they should.

"You are most welcome!"
>Watching the retreating younger mare in warm pride, the older mature's ears flick before smiling back at the crates, the medium steel lid pulled off by a large red cloud.
"Twice now, though this is certainly the best one. Crystal marecenaries are Priority Zero by default, thus we offer everything at cost. It is quite rare they trade or purchase since the majority of what we offer are either non-crystalline, specialized, or enchantmarents which do not work with ExoFrames.
We rarely offer to the Conclaves or Wardens as they prefer strictly resonant works, although a number of younger Lorekeepers have been perusing listings in recent weeks. You will see them at Lunar stands and stalls quite often. Look for pale white and light blue robes."
>Setting the medium lid down, then lifting her head as the large one pops, Celery pauses to search the scene past you.
"Thank you, Amy. We all despise seeing Imperials when they are down, but they are painfilly resistant in accepting aid of any form, shape, type, or sort. You have seen her eyes, that alone is incredibly rare. Few show them, for any reason, even among their own."
>Floating a long line of gems into the trade satchel, ten at a time for quick visual inspection, they were primarily darker, highly reflective variants.
"I know of four Sorcerors. Four are Elemarentals; a Crystalline, a Frost, a Crystal-Ice, and an amusing Crystal-Water hybrid. Each are Masters yet care little for improving. There was one... hm. Hard to recall the name. I remember it was quite strange. I believe that one to be deceased two decades now."
>Next delivering a stream of Bits into the opposite side, some were quite old, having either a thin diamond coating or large numerical face stamp.
"I would never wake a batpony. It is far better for them to realize they have been given something. In the Moors, collections of sticks and stones allow for a most unusual black market. With a full basket, one may trade for highly special favors, though I do not know enough details to ascertain more."

>>394128
>>394157
>Gauging the sleds briefly, her ears twitch in a flat motion, offering a small frown.
"Mmm, that is unfortunate. If you would like, I can put a hold on their contracts for some time. There are quite a number of hostels and hotels within the City-State, fully refurbished and updated. The least expensive is considerably better than those across Equestria, excluding the Navarchs. As well, weekly and monthly prices are incredibly low.
The two Imperial hotels closest to the Main Station are in deep competition, remaining at fifteen gems per week, or fifty gems per month. One offers full amarenities, the other an impressive buffet which some have stated to be equal to excellent restaurants.
And I do have a housing contact, two minutes please."
>Clicking the prosthetic down, her head tilts with a spry look while watching the currency flow.
"Yes, connect me to Dya. Hello again dearest! Do you have a full directory of cottages and houses for sale in the City-State's southern districts? .........mmm, no, that is not what I expected. .......ah, that is unfortunate. ......and you as well!"
>Eyebrows furrowing in thought, she rocks back on all four hooves, speaking in consideration.
"There are over ninety smaller properties for sale, south of the Imperial Square on the southwest and southeast thoroughfares. None have been purchased as each are from the Late Kingdom era, thus quite old and must be fully replaced from damage. As they are however, two to five hundred gems.
A complete replacemarent would cost from one to three thousand gems, but could take up to two weeks.

There are two marensions near ours however.
The smallest is a three level directly west of us occupying half a city block, though the remainder is empty. Was fabricated during the Late Crystal Kingdom and has been updated frequently. The five herds formerly living there joined a medium Consortium some years ago and are now north of the Industrial District, closer to the underground train lines.
Fairly good underground section, eight rooms I believe. Thirteen rooms at ground level, five on the second level, large amount of space for additions or expansion. Or as excellent places to Moonwatch and Starwatch, of course.
There is a permarenent vendor stall on the south walk, two small crystal shops, one large and one small pool, four decent gardens, a number of fruit frees, several rows of berries and flowers, each of which have been tended to by local ponies. I would have purchased it yet I have no logical reason to do so, other than it is most cute and does not deserve to be empty.
It is currently ten thousand gems, though the whole block could be easily purchased for eleven thousand. Would require some work to implemarent and integrate newer crystal systems however. There is some furniture remaining so it should be comfortable as is.

The other is a four level completed six years prior for two large Kingdom herds. They chose to settle in the Eastern Heartlands instead, taking over an abandoned Conclave. It is directly northeast of us two blocks, and takes an entire block. Rather close to the Industrial District.
Ten rooms underground, fifteen first level, ten second level, six third level. Medium crystalshop, a gazebo of some sort, small vendor shop, three pools, two large gardens, a small orchard, numerous rows of berry bushes and flowers.
On marely occasions my servants and I have strolled past, we considered it at length. Unfortunately, it does not offer much space due to the shops and gardens, but it is fairly appealing from the outside.
The previous listing price before it went off the public market was thirty thousand gems, not including yearly bills of five hundred or so for civil maintenance. Completely empty of course."
>Blinking as the last gem and Bit enter the trade satchel, Celery squints back at the crates, then offers you a humbled nod while both lids are placed back.
"Ah, my apologies! I have a terrible habit of detailing everything my mind recalls. Servants often have to drag me away from interesting objects, otherwise I could sit and lecture for the entire Night. In that regard I am far worse than most unicorns!"

>Heavy wings flapping from the west, a bright blue, full bodysuited pegasus lands in a skitter, crystalline ponyshoes smoothly sliding around to a stop less than a foot left of you.
>Rolled flank satchels jingling, left wing flicks out and digs into the small neck pouch, a thick, hard cast gleaming light blue and purple crysamare hoofband is presented between two hard feathers.
>Shown to the unicorn first, feathers spread the ten sections apart to show a heavy, flexible Rimegel connecting each, then towards you, speaking in a fast paced, somewhat droll teen mare's voice.
"Delivery of a Kingdom Rimeworks Type 5HH-S, combat rated? Five means the fifth series, followed by Hololith Hoofband-Small. Yeah, I know, we're not inventive like the other big Consortiums are. Fast is simple and simply fast is best after all!"
"That would be for this dear."
>Spinning partway on left fore and rear hooves, the suited pegasus, remains in that pose to give you a quick up and down glance, eyes widening behind bright blue lenses before focusing.
"Ooooo those hoofboots are SO CUUUUTE! Oh, right, working. Please make a full inspection before purchase! If there's something wrong with this one I have ten more in satchels.
It'll accept any Micro crystal devices, up to eight in all and comes with two Micro crystalplate slots. Integrates with all Medium or Large crystal systems without fail. Requires either a cable or connection module to work with XL's though."

>>394154
>Examining Black Sun's motions, moods, tones, and indicators, there was not a single lie, misdirection, or partial truth.
>Harsh mood combined with brutal honesty creates her sole state of existence, tempered by firm willingness to share trust, as Astral displayed.
>Analyzing the potential risks he'd taken, only one comes to mind: initiating possibly unwanted, undesired, or both, contact to royalty.
>Considering the title he held of Marquis, it originated from a Prench slang phrase 'Maree`kis', meaning a stallion or mare whom is often treated positively for their willingness to initiate first, especially towards those with far higher titles.

>Holding her gaze firmly on the helmet's center, the alicorn's head swings to study the square pillar in fascination.
"The open eyes of Sun are kind yet distant, always in deep consideration rather than immediately acting upon a set of facts.
The face of Sun is warm when close, yet may burn when far, ever trying to maintain proper separation between herself to others.
The wings of Sun gesture as they must to show her thoughts, which are either heated and quick in purpose, or slowly cool to form properly.
Her hooves carry her along thusly, at paces either slow and confident, or brisk and necessary. She has little between such states.
Each smile she bears is as sincere as each frown, calculated yet whole as they are. She is neither impulsive nor ineffective, marely different.
I am the opposite. As each individual views me, I become a reflection known clearly, without subterfuge or obfuscation. Would you prefer the week long lecture or a mere speck of time?"
>Aligning legs to face Black Sun, Shiibo's eyelids close partway, giving a slight head shake as text scrolls on her internal screen, voice shifting into an entreating accent.
[Zero threat; do not insult by drawing weapons. Meanings & intentions understood. Initiating diplomatic protocols for equine royaly.]
"The second, please. We desire to know what you intend to share, and what we may do to restore necessary balance. And, how shall we address you?"
>Left foreleg raised and bent around, firm black mass in the shape of a mare’s hoof is studied as she speaks.
“Black Sun. Tyrant. I do still enjoy being known as Pomique, Prench of course, which they shortened to Pommy. Neighsians oft deemed me Kissho as I am one of the few whom can still teach blood, Fire, Lava, Magma, and Plasma Sorceries. Your choice.
Razorback was to take over Old Canterlot Palatial-Fortress. Guided by hooves, claws, hands, and wings, ones which would ensure their safety, they were to restore it with aid, over sixty thousand with forty thousand as support. In return, humans would have protected those of Tallus from what they could not strike or defend against.
That became a ruin, now inhabited by the last shreds of Our most beloved daughter. Of her own accord, Shared Nettlerose chose Us as dam. Silver did indeed foal her, that much is true, yet the whore of a mare was consumed by the idea of creating an orderly state of existence, one nearly the same as the accursed Otherworld she originated from."
>Burning black eyes narrow into thin lines, wings flutter slightly as Shiibo steps forwards, left hand extended to clasp the alicorn's hoof with a small, formal bow.
"May I, Kissho?"
>Mild surprise and concern becomes a welcoming smile, nodding as the hoof is taken in both hands, Tyrant then displaying a tolerant, albeit pained expression towards you.
“Of... course. My thanks, Daughter.
The actions and words of that few ignorant, arrogant humans should never have undone those efforts, nor Ours. And yet, they did. Over one hundred thousand lives were lost in an instant, trapped by betrayals of such shock that none dare speak of it aloud in fear of receiving the same.
Several of Our shards were touched by Horizon. The largest one whom appeared in this home was lost during the final month of wrongful war against Luna and Her children. That one was purified and reclaimed in full. Such a strong, fertile pegasus she is... mmm, were I to free a single Night to praise her, I shall.
As for the one in Canterlot, where shall be known once it is cleansed and returned. Why is simple: to condemn all her 'owner' desired. If said humans had not infuriated it, events would not have occurred as it did.
After, I witnessed the twisted wreckage of Las Pegasus, the second failure which none could have foreseen. When blame was rightfully asserted, one organization and Horizon had, separately, caused that destruction. While I disliked the cloud city for some of the incessantly unpleasant mareners, it was a firm supporter of traditional pegasi ideals and freedom.
All of those efforts are lost, never to be repeated nor remade again. Surely you understand the supreme irony?"
>Pressing the mare's underhoof with her left hand, the right holds Black Sun's ankle from behind, head tilting in consideration.
[Significant context of non-adaptive human failures. Las Pegasus interventions failed, Anti caused <80%. Linara may know more.]
"We do, in full. How does such relate to now, and what perturbs you from both combined?"
>The Tyrant glances from you to the temporarily whole avatar, then back, eyebrows upraising as ears flatten in subdued anger.
"Enough blood has been spilled and pain wrongfilly dealt to innocents. Countless times each Night I hear the Shades of Tartarus shrieking to be released. I have found neigh means to yet free them. Once the first Gate is opened, they will arrive in such floods of revenge, vengeance, vindication, and retribution that none can hope to slow them.
It is no slight against you that which I must share is offered to one whom cannot be traced nor tracked. You are mortal, thus you can be tortured. Shiibo is not, thus she cannot be. I will not have either of you suffer for crimes you did not commit, nor take burdens which would damn your existences here.
Do you comprehend how those are twinned?"

>>394154
>>394176
>Deliberating for six, Shiibo nods, switching hands to caress the pad in slow, firm motions.
[Royalty, mare. Subset: alicorn. Logic-mediated moods. Pain from memory loss/damage sincere; motivations equal. No dissemination, lies, or half-truths. Wounded from human caused losses. Willing to forgive; not explicit or eager. Accepts us via Astral Legacy association; expectation of equal conduct.
Gains by sharing objective facts, no pride involved. Loses in most equine factors due to negative associations, connotations. Assistance required. Moderate scope of details cleared and verified. Sum: no faster/more effective potential relations for removing political/cultural connections available.
Critical opportunity, sir.]
"We do, yes. How could we serve to shift balance as it must be? We are Otherworlders despite association. Our goals as such are often dissimilar and may not account for equine norms."
>Lips parting briefly in puzzlemarent, Black Sun's left eyebrow raises as she glances up, then back down to Shiibo with a patient, accepting tone.
"I am.. unsure how to answer fully. With Astral here, there may be no risk.. from time to time I will send one of two incorruptible mares to inform you of opportunities to make, or force, peace, such as it they may be. However they are used, passed on, or ignored, is for you to decide.
Stalliongrad has held its fury back despite the great odds against them, and the vast suffering incurred. Horizon will find neither allies nor more lives to sacrifice there. I should not have to caution either of you to treat THEM delicately, honorably, and respectfilly.”
>The Tyrant's head inclines at Shiibo, eyes closing with an appreciative expression, lightly removing her hoof and placing it down, stretching her leg out with a pleased sigh.
“Mm, thank you Daughter. It has likely been centuries since these have been treated. I rarely know what my body is telling me."
>Bowing once more, left hand palm on lower chest, right at the small of back, while also giving a 'perfect' hand signal towards you, Shiibo holds the pose for one second before standing at rest.
"I am pleased at your enjoymarent, and offer the same should you return."
"I may accept your offer as time permits. His armor is fully sealed, yes?"
"It is."
"Excellent. This is what ought to be evaluated."

>Head swinging around, a ring of gold-tinged black opens 3M right of the Tyrant, the scene within much worse than the few images of the Horizon-controlled shard rampaging in the Fortress.
>Barely lit in muted gray from above, craters of distinctive white-clear Anti cascades pockmark a once luxurious, archaic bedroom, now splashed mostly in the wholly unnatural color.
>At least three thousand years old, what had been an ornate four post bed that could easily bear six alicorns takes up the rear wall, two of the preferred, wide and low four drawer wooden dressers to both side, all artificially crystallized within the contaminated ruin.
>Blackened sections of Void covering what you recognize as Lumen walls, nearly the same as those on the Citadel except softer in tone, streaks of purple from the Reaper's raking claws and feathers cross most of the craters.

"Come, Daughter and Suitor. I will show what none have defined from the first time Horizon struck as an individual. Perhaps in the histories of Otherworlds there may be clues for what you shall see.
We have found none similar across Tallus, nor within and upon her environs. Planar beings suffer not from Anti lest they be foaled from mortals, nor do the Eldritch.. or their sometimes far less than abominable descendants. The second I finish slaughtering whichever creatures are sinking New Canterlot into depressive furies, those WILL be called upon in full to uphold their oaths."
>As the Tyrant strolls through and halts four steps inside, Shiibo follows carefully, stopping on the mare's left side and turning about in measured, slow motions.
>Giving a ‘possible danger’ sign, Shiibo flashes a motion to perform integrity checks for an airless environment, text appearing in the helmet's right corner displays.
[Flat 0.2 gravity. Room sealed, minimal oxygen. Lunar surface, unknown region... sir? You need to see these immediately. Eyes only, maximum security site.]

>>394176
(Observation reveals no subterfuge. Presence is purely a diplomatic overture. Astral's behavior a clear indication of loyalty and deference.)

>Meeting her red eyed gaze, he Sticks the compact form of Four Storms Flow Together to his hip then folds his arms. His gloves grip his elbows as he considers her words.
(The 'shadow' of the Sun, then. Damaged by loss. Baseline context established. Contact with royalty protocols will be cumbersome, albeit necessary.)
>Glancing at Shiibo's text, he responds with a similar affirmative.
>Content to allow Shiibo to handle the pleasantries and minutia of the royal code of conduct, he remains quiet as the Tyrant speaks.
(A palace fortress to be manned by hundreds of humans with tends of thousands of alien species members with the express goal of protection. Little wonder it failed, but none of these ponies could have anticipated the source. Risks of first contact in encountering lower social animals. The lower laws they subscribe to can always prompt annihilation in every interaction.)
>As the alicorn elaborates, she also deigns to address his concerns regarding privileged information being limited with practical concerns as the motivation.
(Either she intuited or can read-no, not possible with the equipment I have. Should be blocked. Likely intuited.)
"Your provided clarification is appreciated. The nature of Shiibo's existence will minimize the risk of torture and responsibility. Your purpose is balance. In that, we align. It is both mine and Shiibo's mission to address those human derived imbalances."

>>394177
>Glancing over Shiibo's next text in brief, he sends a thumbs up emoji.
>In tandem with Shiibo's offer and question, he nods. Their status as Otherworlders must be made clear to highlight inevitable cultural differences and divergent values.
>He cocks his head a few degrees as the Tyrant calls Shiibo 'Daughter' for the second time but otherwise does not question it.
(Likely some form of royal court apellation, or title regarding ritual roles. Not as relevant as current information exchange.)

>Turning to view the portal as it opens, he beholds a royal bedroom pocked by Anti and the signs of battle with the Nightmare.
>He takes a single step towards the scene before the Tyrant bring him pause.
(Suitor? Term has heavy implications. Will need to clarify before continuing.)
>His brow furrows as he considers the rest of the Tyrant's words.
(A scene with possible clues inferrable by Otherworld perspectives. Will need to assess. Other facts noted.)
>Before the Tyrant enters, he makes a brief interjection.
"For clarification, you referred to me as 'Suitor'. I would request clarification of the reasoning to address possible misunderstandings."

>Seeing Shiibo's warning, he holds at the portal threshold as she sends him another message.
>His eyes widen in slight surprise at the news. Preparing to activate his Sticky enchantment on the soles of his boots and recalling his low gravity training, he loosens his stance to manage his momentum and braces as he steps into the bedroom.

>>394184
>Considering something briefly, Shiibo continues the clearly beloved hoof massage, the Tyrant visibly relaxing while her next message is slightly confusing.
[Open voice record from Inquisitor Flash: 'there is no return from' destructions of Old & New Canterlot. Further phrases contain appellations IE using food & drinks to describe temporal matters. Q: 'no recovery from this?' A: 'what was recovery to be? Q: 'which future would have occurred'? A: tl;dr 'none of previous I foresaw'.
Sun/Black Sun & Nightmare/Reaper have ulterior motives, RE: Horizon. Beneficial to us? if not merely = playing along.
Further descriptors unknown without cultural delicacy context & dining knowledge.
ADDENDUM! Black Sun MAY NOT = remember exterior contingencies or outer plans!]
>Sniffing delicately towards you, the black alicorn's muzzle creases in slight worry.
"I sense hesitancy. You are correct. I have some experience in delicate matters, yet I care none for politics. As before, I am, exist, and therefore act. I accept what norms are and become, yet what is mine, is shared by my claimed in return.
Tartarus has no such 'thing' as politics. That is where Aether is firmest and stretches to eclipse an opposite realm, the same size as Tallus, yet holds claim to all eventually. The holy Kerbann, whomever the current ruler may be, and the Shades are absolutes. They bare no mercy unless shown logic and reason dictated by circumstance outside of one's control.
You are innocent of the crimes committed by those humans, thus I must ensure they do not declare you guilty from mere association. They see oft as Planar beings do; everything, all at once, no matter how minuscule. Yet they have little means to.. what is the phrase?"
>Squinting harshly for three seconds, Black Sun's expression brightens, not just figuratively: small traces of red Plasma bloom across her lips as she smiles.
"Ah, that is it, 'filter'! Your words are deeply encouraging. She as well must be complete before what I came to offer is made. I will not deliver risk without an equal, yet preferably better, reward. That was ever how I ruled my court next to Luna's."
>Head cocking left, the mare's left eye twitches several times before realizing she was speaking to non-native beings, speaking in a slightly humiliated timbre.
"My sincere apologies. Should you require explanation again, please state as much.
I have accepted both of you into my court, such as it is. A Suitor is a nobilite stallion, not a noble, yet one of my favored, whom is granted right to freely enter and exit at whim, will, and wile. Unlike a courtier, you are neigh beholden to accept task, request, contract, nor order, unless such is freely and willingly chosen. All I ask is that you accept or decline invitations that I may know whether attendance occurs.
It is a formal title set and placed that you may honestly and honorably consider offerings, gifts, trades, contracts, and the like. That does include potential servants, slaves, mates, guards, or whatever you may desire.
At this time I have next to nothing. The One To Become was and is far more important, but I shall begin rebuilding my court back to its grandeur, not only to alleviate Astral's own grief. I will not dwell on what was. After all, there are so marely prizes to see, touch, and hold, yet unfound and unclaimed."
>Quickly taking over lower internal screens and expanding them into a medium array, Shiibo gives a double 'YES' thumbs up.
[You = earned her respect from ritual & conduct. Not small. Positives: inner court of true ROYALTY. Access = INSTANT. Title = existential, cannot be disbarred/disallowed unless do/speak stupid/negative actions/words.
Bad??? news: expectation of honestly viewing offers, gifts, trades, contracts etc. Suitors EXPECTED to consider servants, slates, mates, etc., into creating/expanding lineage, hence title.
Sir. PRIZE UNLIKE ANY OTHER! WHEN/IF you = enter her court, engage, use honest & truthful judgement. Dislike A? State it. Like B? State it. Not sure about C? state it. Old royalty norms still exist.
You = may NOT like. You = WILL consider what is showcased and displayed to her favored.]
>Blinking from the silence between you and the avatar, the black alicorn makes a polite, attention getting snort.
"Hm! Should I explain the details of what such a title means, and the expectations given towards it?"
>Slightly turning to face the mare, Shiibo's head bows to speak softly.
"My apologies, Black Sun, I should have stated I was explaining the details and minutiae involved."
>Right wing extended to rub her temple with a wry smile, the alicorn's ears twitch and splay apart in reconciliation.
"No need my Daughter, I.. should have thought to explain. You are sweet to have done so for me. Alas, among some courts these titles are little used, but I shall strive to restore them back to their proper places, whether noble, royal, stable, or otherwise."
>Stopping before the portal, PANIC sets in.
[Daughter = honorific for Solar mare not bearing/carrying/seeking clan name, known lineage, or noble/royal title claim. Primary meaning is seeking a stallion of = or > rank/clan position/title. ...SHE THINKS I'M A MARE IN SEARCH OF A STALLION?! FFFFFFF nononoNONONONONOnonono calm down! CALM DOWN. calm. CALM! good. better. NO!? CALM. NO! calm? calm.
wait no. no oh no. nonono I will be 80%~ Metal & 20%~ Crystal. too much. NO. do not want. maybe? ...NOOOO. NO! no! NO. done.]

>Entering to slide forwards, halting on the black alicorn’s right side, gravity was indeed 0.2 standard, Shiibo carefully examining the room as the Tyrant speaks, extremely muffled in the near-vacuum.
>Taking one step forwards, her left hand is placed on the alicorn's upper next, leaning down to speak briefly, Black Sun's head turning around to regard you with a short, mortified expression.
>Returning to Shiibo, two short nods are given as Shiibo's left hand raises.
[Transcribing shortly.]

>>394184
>>394185
>Stepping forwards to 'speak' within the alicorn's line of sight, Shiibo frowns briefly, left hand raised and circling to indicate the entire room.
[One of Luna’s more significant gifts to Sun and Black Sun; 25,600’s. Furnished according to royal norms of that era. No limits of access, transportation method impossible to share. A ‘lock’ which can only be ‘set’ by a ‘key’, both existential and engrammatic? ...oh, she means a Moonbridge.]
>Black Sun motions towards specific, large Anti fractures on walls and ceiling, the left wing pointing straight up a short time later.
>You and Shiibo study the ceiling’s extensive Plasma charring, the avatar making quarter-circles to survey the room ten times, spending ten seconds per turn.
[Sun noticed extreme contamination when returning; Class 2 or 3 Anti. Individual present: alicorn, gray-clear coat, white eyes, gray-white mane, tail, hooves. Then an unknown. Zero Tallus, Planar, Eldritch, Extra-Planar markers, resonance, etcetera. And the-]
>Pointing at the crystallizations present on bed and dressers, Shiibo asks two short questions, Black Sun nods in a grim marener, lips parting into wordless snarl at a third.
>Extending her right wing out flat, tipping it back and forth before tossing her mane, left front hoof points at each of the two low dressers, afterwards pointing at the left wall.
>A number of exceptionally fancy desks, dressers, plush lounging cushions, mirrors, and the remains of clothing, all severely damaged and partially crystallized, cover the entire section, the Tyrant speaking for nearly five minutes.
>Shiibo’s eyes narrow slowly, taking on a flat scowl and turning her head to regard you firmly.
[You will NOT scoff, roll your eyes, or perform ANY internal AND external acts of disbelief or incredulity. This falls under a strict DIPLOMATIC situation involving LIVING ROYALTY, sir. We are in her presence, such as it is.
Direct, vital information regarding THE overarching situations which Horizon openly began in 26,853 will follow-]
>Folding her arms together, the avatar’s head tilts left, listening to Black Sun describing muted factors, frequently pausing to grimace.
[Both Suns shared numerous friends, servants, slaves, exceptional tradeponies, individuals reaching Grandmaster status, military, militia, guards, escorts, prostitutes, concubines, mistresses, studs, courtiers, nobilites, nobles, royalites, royals, emissaries, and sometimes diplomats as well. Stallions, colts, mares, and older fillies. CONSENSUALLY and EQUALLY, SIR.
Occupants at that time were half Day, half Night. They were:
Two Solar diplomats, 39 year old earth pony and 43 unicorn respectively, both stallions.
One Prench Duke, 32, pegasus stallion, crowned.
One Neighsian underprincess, 19, no crown but seeking.
One Navarch nobilite, 23, pegasus mare.
One Grandmaster Druid, 53, Ferron, pegasus stallion.
One Grandmaster Smith, 46, Dynasty, earth stallion.
One Grandmaster Crystal Runesinger, 58, Conclavist mare.
Two Changeling Royal Vanguards, approximately 16,800 years old, one mare, one stallion.
One Changeling Attendant, roughly same age, stallion.
One Changeling Tender, roughly same age, mare.
One early Moorite Hunter-Killer, 32, batpony stallion.
One Discordite Destroyer, 36, batpony stallion. Note: before suicide tactics became used, Destroyers used disposable pseudo-weapons created by Mages, Sorcerors, Mystics, Necromarecers, Psions, etc..
One Solar Guardian Fencer, 27, unicorn mare.
One Solar Guardian Brute, 36, earth stallion.
One Lunar Guardian Sorceress, 28… Early Kingdom Crystal mare.
One Lunar Guardian Skylancer, 35, native Harpy female.
One Dusk Strider, 63, unicorn mare.
They often stayed here when not traveling with either Sun, making deals, pacts, trade agreements, or performing ceremonies, rituals, blessings.
Upon Sun’s arrival, they…. were Abominations. Instant shock and disbelief. Sun suffered nineteen injuries within seconds, not fatal but slowed her considerably. Reaper was summoned once she could scream. Reaper arrived as the first was being immolated.]
>Taking on a disturbed expression, Shiibo faces Black Sun, left hand palm up while asking several questions.
>Head shaking in short motions, the alicorn points towards the right wall, which would be west.
>Little more than scorched, molten Lumen, partially crystallized Lumin and physical Anti embedded throughout are given two minutes of study.
[Abominations were fast enough to score significant blows, minimal Gravity was no obstacle. Reaper pinned Abominations there for Sun to conflagrate. Low Gravity GREATLY threw off unknown alicorn’s aim, allowing Sun and Reaper to strike paired blows from opposite angles when able. Kept alicorn stunned 50%~ of time.
When Plasma and Lumin are mixed and detonated, the blindness caused to alicorn was 1/4 effective. Physical Anti cascades disrupt magical, Elemental, and biological functions equally, effects increasing by 1-3% per ten seconds.
Total encounter: 3 minutes, 20~ seconds. Near-deific combat scenario. This is BAD, sir.]
>Wings flicking, Black Sun glides towards the bed, stopping five meters from it with a counter motion, Shiibo holding up a hand in a 'stay' motion.
>Waving over a particular point, she stomps down, leaping back while a small, dull white-clear cloud rises in a plume.
>Slowly exhaling a tiny line of black plasma, as it touches the cloud, clear-white searing burns flash, leaving fractal geometric stains.
>The unfamiliar, HOSTILE pattern delivers a wordless signal, the action far beyond merely unnatural.
>Neither Tallus, her Elements, the Planes, Eldritch, Extra-Planar, or any combination between could produce similar.
>Straightening, Shiibo speaks four short lines while motioning towards the fading imprint, the mare nodding after five seconds, glaring towards.
[Long decayed from disruption, Lumin and Plasma EFFECTIVE at destruction. Anti has PHYSICAL Otherworld mass but anomalous weight & composition. In this state, no danger. Signal pulse contained, cannot exit.]

>>394157
>>394158
>Flicking her gaze between the retreating Rubelime and Celery, Amy managed to get her giggling under control.
>Amy clasped her hands together and batted her eyelashes. Incredibly jealous.
"I have, and they're very pretty!~"
>She hummed thoughtfully and considered the two sorcerers she herself knew.
"I was taught much of what I know of sorcery by my sire and a mare named Avernus. Avernus I believe may be able to examine the seal in greater detail, she may even possess direct knowledge of ancient Sumarea already."
>Oh, and her new revenant friend as well!
"Oh, oh! I have lots of Kerbann sticks and twigs! I started collecting them because the batponies were doing it as well."

>Amy returned Celery's frown with a smile.
"It's not unfortunate. Home is still home, I was just kicked out because my parents wanted me to see Tallus!~ Buuut that is hardly an appropriate home for others to travel back and forth between commonly, given the toll that entry can extract. So! Prrroperty!~"
>Doing an excited little twirl, Amy paused mid twirl and blinked at Celery. Was she truly willing to put the contracts on hold? For her? That couldn't simply be because Celery had designated her Priority One.
>She could sense mischief, and it set her ears twitching merrily.
"Hmm."
>As Celery went over the various housing options from her contact, Amy inclined her head and considered.
>The hostels and hotels would suffice for the short term, yet what would be the point of that? Why not hold permanent residence in the Crystal Empire? Then she could set up a workshop!
>Smaller properties, cheap, need some work, nope, nope! Too small.
>The marensions however... There was plenty of room in either to set herself up, yet it sounded like the first would be more ideal for future expansion.
>Offering Celery a happy smile, she shook her head.
"That's okay, you remind me of Avernus and I always enjoyed learning of everything she had to teach, no matter how important or trivial. In any case, the first marension is interesting, if I can manage to buy that one, I'm happy to pick up both contracts for the servant and the mareguard."

>Turning to catch sight of a pegasus flying in, Amy stood stock still as she slowly slid to a halt.
>Very nice timing, this one.
"Yup, that's me!~ Great landing by the way, I rate it ten out of ten!"
>Amy lifted a boot up and forwards for inspection, giggling.
"Oh I know right? They might have a bit of bug gunk still on them though, unfortunately."
>She gazed down and gave the boots an irate look. Perhaps she shouldn't have used them for stomping after all.
"Okie dokie!"
>Amethyst leaned in and appraised the goods with as much of her skill as she could muster. She'd never get good at it if she didn't practice after all.

[1d6+3 = (6+3) = 9] < B. Appraisal
[1d6+3 = (5+3) = 8]

>>394189
"They most certainly are!"
>Eyebrows striking high, the older mature swivels on hoof to face you, vocally taken aback.
"You must mean Baronet Avernus. Mid-40's unicorn mare of semi-royal lineage, took her eldest sister's title, fell in love with a barely mature Nature dragon by the name of Tachell during the early Middle Dynasty, a crowned Otherworld King over sixty thousand years old. They improved and refined more than sixty Sorcery rituals, then went on to reduce the catastrophic failures of various Elemental Cores by sixteen percent."
>Head rocking back, Celery Souffle forgets to blink as she speaks.
"I know a great deal regarding both of their lives. It is an actual relief to know she still lives. What happened to her lover, Tachell? He was one of three Otherworld Dragons known as the Blackwatchers. They attempted to dive into The Black at the same location where a Navarch dreadnought had been detonated, but they disappeared from history afterwards. For that matter, if Avernus found her way into Tartarus... then she must be ruling it now."
>Ears flapping left, then right, light pink eyes search up and left.
"Kerbann? Yes, the archaic proto-Moorian mango trees, planted long before batponies were created by the Rime-infected pegasus known as Cadence in the 13,000's. They were known as the primary servants of Aether, directly commarending the Shades whom were few in number. Shades served as the second ruling council of Tartarus until the Half-Shades sprang into existence when the first half-Betrayals occurred by ponies whom posed as Early Dynasty adherents. I-"
>Catching herself quickly, the unicorn exhales quickly, then gives a fairly critical examination to your hooves, robe, then Stick, left eyebrow raising.
"...Amy, I hope you do not mind me stating this aloud. Your Hoofboots are a crysto-regula composite, half-material, given shape, weight, and form by Sorcerous ritual. Woven Kerbann soft inner bark and leaves... that is a Kerbann branch. I cannot hear nor feel it, but I recognize patterns.
I have over eight thousand tomes regarding the Middle Dynasty, the majority originals with a number of second-hoof copies. the time. It is my ponial belief that era was the fifth most important for Equestria. In order: Conclaves first, Kingdom second, Empire third. The Pegasi-Batpony League is fourth."
>Remembering to blink finally, she does so multiple times before offering a conspiratorial smile.
"Kicked out, or returned to the world which you were supposed to live upon? I know well what the second is like. My dam and sire gave me five hundred Bits worth of gems when I turned fifteen, then claimed I would not inherit their holdings if I did not marenage to return as a worthy mare."
>Snorting quietly, her gaze rolls right, up, and left, the mare's creeping mischief clearly apparent in her mood.
"Ohhh how little they knew.. I had already planned to leave and visit each of Luna's Villages, taking only my satchel, six grimoires, ten blank tomes, and thirty charcoal sticks. I had not even thought of taking a single gem or coin. They were QUITE shocked when I returned as a Lunar Lorekeeper, Grandmaster appraiser, and held five Grand Spells."
>Pausing to squint before nodding slightly, her prosthetic leg raises to make an odd, unfamiliar motion.
"Mmm, the Tartarus toll. Numerous tomes have differing opinions. Some state it depended on the severity of crimes which Aether, through the Kerbann, then the Shade Council, was willing to process. Others declared the Shades were horrible at determining and comprehending time, sentencing some to work until they complained, grew tired, or struck one, while a fair number stipulated their contracts to be unreasonably difficult to finish.
A few marention the Kerbann had, or have, nearly perfect understanding regarding to what degrees of innocence or guilt were required to be paid for, but none of them detail how the toll was eventually codified."

>Smiling proudly, Celery Souffle dips her head in a particularly regal Lunar motion, right foreleg raising briefly, then set down as exhales warmly.
"Then I am glad to be a temporary teacher. It is one of the few luxuries I still have that marely desire to learn all they can, Crystal, Lunar, or the few whom are both in these Nights.
I shall check if the smaller marension is still available, though I have severe doubt it has been traded or sold."
>Firmly tapping the prosthetic leg down, the mature unicorn gazes upwards, a sincerely pleased expression spreading across her face.

>Snickering several times in a quick, aery marener, the young mare shakes her head quickly, streaks of neon blue fading after each motion.
"Thanks! More like a nine-point-one outta ten though, still getting used to wearing this. Liquid Rime bodysuits make it real nice to fly around, but they aren't publicly available yet. Lotta problems with crysaflex composites shrinking or expanding at the worst times, and nopony's figured out why these socketed joints jam without icing up. Kinda tight in the barrel and flanks too."
>Head bending forward to gaze at the Juggernaut hoofboots once more, you note the lenses weren't sapphirine as they had no reflective qualities, instead being a heavy poly-crystalline composite, durable and Rime proof, but unreasonably hard to shape.
"PFFFF! This ain't Floerida, but if it was the insect parts would still be singing!"
>Flashing a smile through partially clear snout mask, the Crispy's ears wiggle, causing a series of small crackling sounds in the crysaflex material.
"Gotta be brutally honest here, I can BARELY see through these. Everything's one shade of blue, purple, red, or another, so it's hard for us to tell if there's damage on most crystallines. Lemme know if you find something wrong."

>>394189
>>394194
>Examining each of the heavy crysamare sections, they had been hard cast at precise temperatures, partial reflection and faint glow indicating each piece was allowed to cool slowly, without disturbance, in a complete vacuum.
>Rolling it over to check for refractions indicating damage or improper melding, whistling in numerous tones to check for erratic harmonic discolorations show nothing peculiar or unusual.
>Poking the central integral Micro crystal device, a small hololith screen pops up instantly, an InterPony mare's cutout immediately appears in a slow, relaxing trot.
>Waving to it, the cutout pauses, turning to smile, left foreleg raising to wave back and forth twice, then turns again to continue.
>At least it wasn't one of the weird ones your sire preferred... or the ODD versions your dam enjoyed.
>Testing capacity for more screens, a total of twenty are reached, common Empire directories shown on each, though you notice the clarity was slightly better than your dam's partially custom hololith.
>Checking the harmonic interface, it easily responded to every whistle, hum, and tone you could produce, also featuring an integral low-high balance adjustmarent which could be configured specifically to you as a security measure.
>Tapping the two Micro crystalplates, which were discs and thus shouldn't be called plates, each opens an individual hololithic screen to display nothing had been stored.
>Sniffing the band from a safe distance, the sharply icy, welcoming tang of Rime was distinct, meaning the biogel was either part of a small batch, or had been rigorously controlled during mixing and extrusion.
>Calculating the total price based on similar designs your dam's schematics detailed, the average for a combat rated hoofband 2 years prior was 4,200 gems; the price had dropped significantly while quality had marginally improved.
>Considering the hundreds of swappable Micro crystal devices, from basic to advanced scanning, analysis, schematic design or modification, target marking, mining, combat assistance, search assistance, among plenty of other utilities, this was a better option than most of the Light offerings since those either needed a worn connection or an actual ExoFrame.

>Finally receiving a response, Celery's head shakes, lips spread apart in a riotous grin.
"Hello again Dya! No no, my apologies, I should not be calling upon you this close to the Shield being raised. I have one request before you turn in. There is a Priority One client whom wishes to purchase the small marension directly west of ours. ......yes, including the other half of the city block which has not been developed. Is that possible? .........oh? Is the cost is as I recall it, eleven thousand gems with that included? .......I fully understand. How can I assist the process? ............that is much simpler than I thought. ....of course not! I should be back before the hour. .....mm-hm! Go back to bat and sleep well, I shall see you tonight."
>Amethyst hoof tapping down, the unicorn mare presents a satisfied nod to you.
"My sister has stated it is still available, dear Amy! The only requiremarents to purchase the smaller marension to the block west of ours, including the additional undeveloped land, is as follows: eleven thousand gems, from either crystalplate or physical trade, and either a single InterPony exchange or your signature on the trade notice.
Should you accept the first and either the second or third, it will be yours. As well, should I request delivery for both the servant and my cousin's Mareguard contract?"

>>394185
>Frowning behind his helmet visor, Pareidolia struggles to make sense of the truncated summary from Inquisitor Flash as the Tyrant elaborates. Sending a reply to Shiibo as he thinks of it, he nods at the Tyrant.
[Confusing, some implication that Tyrant's hopes to return to before is impossible. Confirmed temporally. Concur with Flash they all have ulterior motives regarding humans. Already felt the need to navigate carefully. Black Sun may be operating with incomplete memory.]
"I see."
>He presses his lips together with some concern as Shiibo's message then outlines the responsibilities of his new title.
(As expected. Aspirations of reclamation. Unclear how Nightfall ties in.)
[Noted. Court/Faction expectation positives understood. Need to manage negatives to avoid excessive political obligation. I do not want to be bogged down by Equestrian affairs.]
>Hearing the Tyrant's equivalent of a slight clearing of her throat, he inclines his head with Shiibo.
"Apologies. The expectations of the position were being elaborated on."

>Stopping before the portal as a stream of panicked text streams across his display, he sends a brief reply.
[We'll address the misunderstanding after this. I'm also not fond of titles foisted but no choice for now.]

>>394186
>Standing still to survey the room, he looks for anything particularly out of place or unusual in the battlescape while the Tyrant speaks with Shiibo.
>Glancing at Shiibo as she turns to him, he nods once as her text message scrolls.
[Gravity of situation already clear, but understood.]
>Following a long list of favored court members and shared descriptions, he sets it to the upper half of his display while moving to look at the crystal marked dressers.
(Year 26,853? Then Horizon's plan utilizing these... Abominations is thousands of years in the making. With now being 29,998.)

>Hearing the muffled movements of the Tyrant near the bed, he watches as she exhales a small string of plasma which reacts with the Anti present.
>A sensation of hostility emmanates from the resulting sigil.
[Remains of Anti after being destroyed by Plasma? What is that sigil?]

>>394194
>>394195
"Yup, that's her, she doesn't like being called a baroness though."
>The look of shock on Celery's face was highly amusing, and Amy broke out in giggles. She'd like to see Avernus' face when she learns she's considered a near mythical figure.
"They're still together, and they're very sweet!~ She... sssort of rules Tartarus? To be sure, nobody 'rules' Tartarus, you marenage Tartarus as well as you marenage a couple dozen kitties."
>Impressed, Amy gave her a short series of claps. Celery really did know her esoteric materials.
"Ten out of ten! All correct. There's plenty more material where this came from, like I said earlier."
>The mischievous grin returned.
"Less returned and more unleashed I think, I'm here to terrorise Tallus and everybody in it because Tartarus can't take any more of my chicanery!~"
>The fact that Celery had done much as she was about to do without the material advantage Amy herself had was inspiring. She felt relieved that even if she did not have all the resources she had, it was fairly simple to make one's way in the world.
>She was curious though, so she inhaled a breath.
"Ooh. Which villages did you visit? What's a grimoire? What were the charcoal sticks for? Is appraising a lot of practice, or a lot of practice as well as learned knowledge? What Grand Spells do you know?"
>The filly considered what she knew of the toll, as it had been explained to her.
"The toll... It is, as I understand it, the sacrifice of a number of years multiplied by the betrayals one has committed, and so it is that it can sap away the lifespan of those who seek entry. One's own physicality is extracted."

>Amethyst returned the gesture with a radiant smile.
"Always love hearing about more lore to categorise, and share, I've never really had as much chance to share before."

>Leaning to one side, Amy eyed the suit over. She was certain she wouldn't be able to figure it out just from a visual inspection, but it was always fun to examine wargear.
>Also practice, practice.

[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4] < B. Perception
[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8]

[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] < Junior Crystal Engineering
[1d6+4 = (5+4) = 9]

"I don't suppose it could be as simple as a temperature differential issue. Fire absorption via friction with Air in-flight might expand the material until it sticks... Hm."
>Wobbling a little, Amy lowered the boot back down to the ground so she no longer had to balance on one hoof, Amy shook her head.
"Oh, no the bugs were in Saddle Arabia. Nasty things, lots and lots of them."
>She shuddered as she remembered them momentarily before turning back to her examination. Bugs. Ew.
"Mmm!~ I see nothing wrong with these, impeccable craftsmareship!"
>Amethyst watched the little InterPony trot along for a little bit before patting around her pockets for her access plate.
"This one will do."

>Raising her brows in surprise, Amy was doubly curious that Celery was able to arrange a marension sale just like that. Not that she was complaining.
>She shook her head in the negative.
"I don't have access to an InterPony for an exchange yet, so a signature it will have to be."
>Amy clasped her hands behind her back cheerfully and nodded in assent.
"Yuh-huh! I look forward to meeting them both.~"

>>393919

>The initial shock wearing off wearing off, Clemency listens to the two ponies
>Stellar Claw seems really interested in the Luminaryy
>Hearing how the Luminary views the world, the enclosed suit somewhat reminds Clemency of certain COFFIN pilot systems
>Only more permanent and at least the COFFIN provides 360 degree view
>Definitely something to get used to like the Luminary's pool of colors

>Clemency is startled by the Guillotine's reaction to the smaller vessel
>He repeats the phrase in his own head, Ve-ke-ne-hay
>He tries to use different intonations and such to figure out the meaning that would make the Guillotine mad
>At least, until the screeching noise from the Guillotine breaks his concentration
>Clemency tries to explain the Guillotine's response but Stellar Claw beat him to it
"What Stellar said, although it still is hard to parse sometimes."
>He the tunes into the Guilltoine
*"So it doesn't know any docks it can return to? Is the lifeweave so badly outdated it can't use any modern materials?"*

>Looking towards the Guillotine, he sees the ship return to normal
*"Return safely and sleep soundly Guillotine. Thank you for your help. Before you return though, can I get a transcription of the history you've uncovered? And, is there anything we can do for the vessel?"*
>Looking at the two ponies, he sees the Luminary shaken a little from the Guillotine's outburst
>Clemency gives a respectful nod to the Luminary as she leaves
>He sees Stellar Claw point towards the south and follows it
>A hostel?
>A bed sounds very VERY good right now
>Plus, the area is still under quarantine until the Anti is cleared out
>This would also mean the Luminaries has to go around Razorback and put the base under quarantine as well to clear out the Anti too
>Overall, he's stuck for a while
>Might as well get some rest after going for almost 24 hours
"Sure. We can head over. And I'm going to keep your word then! I'll feel that second taste when it comes."
>With that, he looks at the vessel one more time before walking with Stellar over to said hostel for some rest

>>394244
>Rotating away from the mare, Shiibo extends her left hand to point out each of the hundreds of alicorn sized claw, feather, hoof, and the Reaper's batpony-like fang imprints, streaked into walls and ceiling, then the same from Plasma, without teeth of course, following in further melting the Lumen sections.
>Where each impact landed, enough pseudo-matter Anti shards, still embedded though long defunct, would have easily killed and physically transformed more than fifty ponies.
[10-20% similar to the ‘worst’ Anti damage recorded in Fortress & Enclave after Siege, sir. Damage here = far more extensive, destructive. These occurred when Horizon was regarded as ‘whole’. Connotation = not spiritual; Otherworld existence incapable of adapting/acclimating? BAD upgraded to BAD, sir.]
>Splaying out both wings, Black Sun's left makes a mock sweeping blow which matched one set, the right raising to make a short chopping motion, speaking for thirty seconds before text scrolls.
[Horizon then = ZERO experienced in low Gravity traversal & combat. When last Abomination destroyed, Reaper changed assault vectors numerous times, Sun performing follow-ups before switching to successful paired blows from opposing angles. Extreme panic/similar combined with 'concussions'?? Does not know enough to explain more. Tactic was effective.]
>Taking note of the flatly low Gravity as you carefully step forwards in a slow gliding motion, Shiibo displays an image of local Gravity oriented in a square; this room is connected to seven more, creating a large two-level complex.
>Motioning for you to turn around, a fused, blackened pair of 13' tall, inverted kite shield doors were impassable, slagged together across the entirety of each seam.
[Black Sun called this the Solar Getaway, an..... unfortunately apt term. She states the remaining rooms are inaccessible due to being filled with still reactive Lumin and physical Plasma. They were MUCH worse. Nothing remains.
Moonbridge was destroyed from Anti disruption. Nightmare/Reaper incapable of remaking to this location. Once the 'lock' is 'set', if the 'key' is destroyed, it cannot be remade. In short: form of unique in-dimensional transport; explains a great deal of pre-Warp Gate/translocation access.]
>The Tyrant slides forwards and around in a long step, scowling and gesturing at both dressers from your left side.
>Virtually the same style as earth ponies enjoyed, both dressers flanked the colossal bed feature extensive Anti-crystallization, similar to spalling except not causing physical damage, originating from large white-clear hoof prints across the surface.
>Picking the right one first to examine the spastic impact vectors, Horizon had been panicked, unable to deal with gravity.
>Within the archaic, once light colored wood, partially clear drawer sections contain vast amounts of equally crystallized formal and informal equine clothing.
>Portions severely damaged from Anti catalyzing processes, the amount of silver, gold, platinum, kanpri, mythril, and safe Planar thread was worth a small fortune alone.
>From the external impacts causing small to medium Anti cascade detonations, the once-exquisite materials within had been in the process of being moved rearwards until white-clear crystallization occurred.
>Recognizing only a few, Shiibo questions the Tyrant briefly before texting.
[Neighsian Sorcerous/Mystic weaves, wide variety of Moors silks, exceptionally fine cotton-likes from across Tallus, real Changeling pseudosilk, original Crystal Conclave bodysuits, Zebraic rolling pufftree weaves... these were all gifts to Sun/Black Sun.
Other dresser contains more. They were beyond priceless :\]
>Motioning it was safe to jump onto the bed's right side, low gravity aids Black Sun flicking both wings backwards in a small motion, landing next to you lightly .
>Making a slight motion for the avatar's attention, the black alicorn speaks to her as you survey long streaks of Void-tinged Lumin across it, the Reaper having obviously tried to prevent the thick mattress, pillows, sheets, and blankets from catching fire.
>Fewer Anti crystallizations occurred here, while a number of long frozen, embedded fluids retain their coloration: dark pink, light red, red, dark red, and red-black blood, along with partially glowing yellow-red and blue-red from both Princesses.
>Pale yellow, milky clear, partially white, off white, and semiclear crystals indicated large amounts of synovial, spinal, and internal fluids had been released during the physical transformation into Abominations, Shiibo grimacing after three sentences from the alicorn.
>The avatar's eyebrows furrow as the alicorn rubs her snout with the right wing, speaking through feathers for a short time.
[Brain functions disrupted as Anti takes control of individual.. not unlike 'zombification'. Physical body undergoes RAPID mutation; not quite modification & replacement? Individual retains full awareness until process complete. Sun/Black Sun & Nightmare/Reaper felt Overherd & soul connections severed at apex, causing full death.
Inquisitor's open files in the Fortress detail <3-5%~ similar processes from her omniverse regarding Otherworld 'Infected' class threats. Few similarities to Planar/Extra-Planar. Sun & Repear suspected Eldritch at first, as did I. Our knowledge + facts here confirm otherwise.
Moderate speculation: Horizon = imitating Eldritch capaciities, possibly from her own Otherworld? Caveat: anomalous physical matter/pseudo-radiation Anti uncontrolled until Abomination stage reached.]

>Shiibo turns around from inspecting the bed's foot, pointing at the hazy symbol
>It was not familiar in the slightest.
[I have reviewed all Committee data from our Otherworld, including parallel universes to a factor of 1,000. Zero indicators matching factors here within <1% range. This is unknown to us sir.
Compiling a render of this 20 versus 2 engagemarent based on her recall and information presented.]
[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]

>>394285
>Shiibo's evaluation and the surrounding environment paints a grim picture of the then whole Horizon's abilities.
>Brow furrowing as he looks over the damaged, now priceless relics and materials he stands up. Enabling text to speech, he sends a reply to his AI.
'What information do we have on process of Abomination progression? Psychological cognizance and presence of soul only being overwritten later in process implies a particular vector of affliction, notable data point.'

>Turning around and moving to stand near the foot of the bed, he joins Shiibo to check the symbol described. Returning back to text shortcut selection, he kneels and focuses on the symbol while trying to recall any connections to what he knew.
[I concur. Scenario outside Committee projections. Will need to create comparative framework from scratch. Confirm, clues into Horizon/Abominations is what Tyrant wants evaluated here?]
>He then stands and enables the projector module on his helmet.
[Once done compiling, can you project 3D recreation of the event for analysis?]
>Moving to a safe corner of the room, he directs his projector to cover the room.

>>394260
>Taking a marental step back to consolidate, Celery's ears wiggle in deep thought.
"I can scarcely believe this. Ninety percent of the Dynasty's half-mortals, pseudo-mortals, and others stripped themselves of life lengthening rituals, elixirs, or both. Most are deceased, whether on Tallus or in Elemental Planes. The Undead Vigil Light Cult aided a section of earth ponies, pegasi, and Gryphels which dispersed, eventually founding Stalliongrad. The rest spread apart, living among Elemarentals or teaching what should not have been.
I do know a few lived for two more centuries after the Dynasty's fall in eastern Saddle Arabia. There was a line of Dynastic towns, desert farms, reliquaries, oasis temples, small city-states, ritual sites, and Elemental laboratories which divided Saddle Arabia from the Deep Deserts.
When the Advanced Warp Gates sent to each were sabotaged, a catastrophic chain reaction destroyed all of those, creating the Burning Bridge. Over two million Saddle Arabians and at least nine hundred thousand Harpies, native, Otherworld, Planar, and Extra-Planar alike, perished.
From the Burning Bridge catastrophe, the Ones-Given-Soul came forth. Most of Tallus call them Eyes. That is what they are; they see everything from the perspective of those final momarents. They are the sole inhabitants of Eyeraq and know most of what transpired throughout the Dynasty, yet are beholden to protect the last remaining true Saddle Arabians.
Eyes are often compared to young Dragons whether native, Otherworld, or Planar. Few of Tallus can match them as they are unrivaled with Elemental spells, Sorceries, and are technically native Psions. Marely suspect them to be a damaged gestalt resulting from those losses, yet I do not know for sure as they never explain the circumstances of their existence.
Canterlot Underground travels there to study Dead Zones and chaotic Elemental storms. Each time they are escorted by hundreds of Eyes to protect and guard from those dangers."
>Eventually blinking after the mare's tiny lecture concludes, you recognize much of her knowledge as correct, though the number of losses among Saddle Arabians, Harpies, and various non-mortals was far more than Avernus knew of, and information regarding the Eyes was new as none had arrived in Tartarus.
>Snickering in a batpony like marener, the mature unicorn bats her eyes at you in sincere, devious praise.
"Hmph! What a loss for them! Tallus requires more positive discordant harmony and beloved chaos than it currently experiences. I do believe your marener should invoke a certain amount of both."
>Head tipping back in consideration, Celery's lips curl upwards in welcoming recall.
"I visited Village One, the first, to Village Five-Hundred Sixty-Two, those being founded until the Late Starborn period. They range from the tiniest of ponelets with spread out farmlands to a number of tiny, miniature cities. Inhabitants are Lunars of course. Some are dedicated to certain species, age ranges, or specific contaminations, though most are safe.
Grimoires are tomes which contain vast data regarding Elements, magic, and the two combined, specially for unicorns. They contain rituals derived from Mysticism, Sorcery, Elementalism, and sometimes Druidry or Necromarecy. Sometimes, lines may change when read and comprehended, often showing different interpretations. You may call them living records.
Charcoal sticks, especially the paper wrapped ones, are used to write, sketch, draw, and inscribe runes, symbols, glyphs, sigils, words, among others. I filled almost two hundred blank record tomes during those travels. They contain exciting knowledge of the Lunar Guardians, early Starborn, and their material working disciplines.
Appraising combines lore with functional and working knowledge. For example, kanpri takes well to being infused with Void, Metal, Lumin, and anti-elementals, yet has severe problems infusing aspects of Crystal, Ice, Ethereal, Dominion, and Water to the same."
>Turning her gaze down, eyes snap left and right several times before leaning in to whisper in a sprightly, clipped accent.
"I bear Five which are uncommon among Lunars.
Kineigh's Hateful Snort summons a being of Void, or The Black, to aid me for a short time. While some would normally be hostile, those whom accept must render their judgemarent as if it were my own.
Most are highly effective against Planar, Otherworld, Eldritch, and Abominations, with decent capabilities against Infected, Extra-Planar, Eldritch, and Malformed. They will not harm natives nor nnocents, oor inflict damage upon matter, energy, or Elements without proper cause.

Countless Shared Eyes summons a tiny remnant of Void, whether as a singular entity, or aspects in the tens to hundreds. It, or they, choose how to harm my enemies.
As Void recognizes each difference between innocence and guilt, they will shield the first, then furiously render the second into nothingness. That second can be most obscene. If sacrilege is found, there may be vast consequences.

Six Claws Drawn is an ancient blood magic rite. It invokes the first four batponies created by Cadence, holding one enemy of Tallus in order to be judged accordingly.
They cannot harm innocents and will spare nothing to cripple or slay those guilty of brutality. At the least they will bind one's ka and consciousness for several hours, or damage the body if there is neither of the first. At best they tear the soul apart, or ruin the body best as they can.
Batponies look upon such acts with caution. Should I invoke it dishonorably, they will avenge that slight in return. In all other aspects, they either pay no attention should the invocation be truly dealt... or send me a few hundred mangoes."

>>394260
>>394293
"Words of Black negate Fire, Ethereal, and Dominion, turning those energies into incoherent detonations. To lesser effect they will dampen Magma, Lava, and Plasma, including hybrids joined with Crystal, Ethereal, Earth, Stone, and Dominion.
They do not halt, cease, nor prevent Elements which are Void-aligned, particularly Nature, Moon, and certain forms of Metal. For those whom wrongfilly have such Elements, or associated materials, those are stripped from the offenders' possession.
If used against Spectrals and Undead, native to Tallus or not, they are dragged into The Black for utter destruction.
However, they are ineffective towards Revenants as those retain full awareness, knowledge, consciousness, ka, and part to whole of their physicality. A fair number of Revenants whom have been unfairly damned to exist beyond mortality. They are regarded as kin and as such are instead given aid.

Last yet never least, Lumin Skies is among the deadliest Grand Spells known. It creates a one to six hundred yard circular radius of Elemental Lumin shards, which are physically energetic in nature and may cause cascade detonate on large targets.
Lethally effective against Extra-Planar, Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings alike, it also prevents those from enacting their energetic capabilities for some time."
>Amethyst prosthetic lifting to rub her chin, the mare offers a pleasant smile as she speaks in humorous tinges.
"Each of those times were QUITE desperate. Thus far I have not experienced a single negative, thus I am either fortunate or blessed to not be condemned for their uses."
>Eyelids half-closing for ten seconds, her ears swivel around in thought before nodding slowly.
"That explains much. There are records of Conclavists, Early Kingdom ponies, and Elemarentals whom willingly served out their crimes in Tartarus. Upon being released from imprisonmarent they were noted as bearing several lost forms of Aether Sorcery. Close equivalents of the second are only known in Neighsia, Zebraica, and in Saddle Arabia. Truly remarkable.."
>Light pink eyes fading out for a second, she blinks, head shaking several times before giving you a apologetic expression.
"I cannot help but to share. Should your time permit, I hereby request permission to visit and teach what I know. At least, that which is not Dynasty related since you likely know far more details than I, but I would love to compare notes."

>Peering over the mare's soft crysaflex bodysuit, then the internal liquid Rime tubes running throughout, several details are notable.
>The overall design is a late prototype, and while it did keep her well below freezing, necessary wing motions for extended flight had been drastically overlooked.
>Given the Crystal pegasi alignmarent for Airstream and Lightning, when combined with the unnatural-to-them Ice and Crystal, the overall design was intended to allow flight, but hadn't been custom fit to her dimarensions.
>Examining the tightly fit and overlapping crystalline sheet sockets supporting where wings met shoulders, you notice a possible fault: the combination of Lightning to Ice and Airstream to Crystal may be a compounding problem, one which seemed to be imitating natural friction.
>Peering at the leg joints, they were coated in standard, highly durable flexible Rimegel, similar to those used in light ExoFrames, which wasn't expected to perform rapid movemarents for long periods of time.
>Considering few pegasi studied engineering principles and the Empire's lack of knowledge on Crispies as a whole, the problem wouldn't be addressed without further study.

"Makes sense to me. If you have a clue about the problems I can tell our Crystal Forgers and Runesingers, maybe they'll know how to fix 'em."
>Giving a drawn out snort, the Crispy's free wings flaps in amused disdain.
"Can't even think about going there, our bodies DON'T work above forty Mahrenheit. I know some insect-eating batponies love the coastal regions though, lotta delicacies for them."
>Transferring the hoofband to you, a small crystalline disc is presented for your plate on her ring wing, waving it under before being stuck under side satchel.
"There ya go! If it ever needs repairs send a CrystalNet message to Kingdom Rimeworks Consortium, we'll get it fixed right away. And by 'we' I mean the real trademares. Crispies don't use Runes or similar, way too hard for us to make sense of."
>A ringing chime emits as two tiny screens appear, left showing the new InterPony measuring your specific harmonic bandwidths, the other displaying its cutout, a young mare, giving a short bow.
>Having used your dam's large hololith numerous times, the integral CrystalNet functions were highly familiar, various searches on standby.

"Should be easier to sign for it aneighhow. One minute please-"
>Flashing a delicate smile, the older mare's head tips down, tapping the artificial hoof.
"Just me! I have wonderful news for you: a Priority One client desires to purchase your contract, along with my cousin as Mareguard. Would you be willing to deliver both to small marension west of ours? She will be purchasing that entire block shortly. ......I do not mind in the slightest! She will greatly enjoy the aid. Her sire and dam are occupied at current and may not return to the Empire for some time............ absolutely! I shall take her to the marension shortly. See you then my dear!"
>Merrily snorting aloud, Celery's ears swivel in eager circles as she regards you with a proud expression.
"Lucent Honeysuckle is collecting her belongings and both contracts, she will arrive at the marension shortly. Your new Mareguard's name, is Lucent Nebula. My cousin is attending a Lorekeeper class and will require half an hour or so to move her possessions.
And yes, I am well aware of how rare it is to find two ponies of different species whom share a first name. It is quite amusing how opposite their poninalities are as well."

>>394281
>Left wingclaws reaching for the wooden box and slinging it onto her saddle to catch with the other set, Stellar's hood flops down over her eyes as she snickers.
"Then you should hear modern Navarch battlespeak. Uses cut terms, hybrid words, and short adhoc phrases like few others.."

>Knowing how common pegasi works, 've' is solely used as a negative modifier, while 'ke', shortened from kee and implying sharp batpony linguistics, suggests that listeners scrutinize further words.
>The active 'ne' signifies trouble or danger, otherwise properly assigning blame or fault, and 'hay' at the end of a sentence is used to focus attention onto a known problem.
>The closest approximation became 'negative events, sharp on blame, too late', in effect stating Sixth Fleet's capabilities had lagged to the point where the simulants knew their housings were poorly outdated, fully placing blame for their lazy actions.

*"Nae docks remain mine's self knowest, nae hold records auf. Upon Ninth Fleet's leave all was taken, save those mineself requireth an' left 'pon Arena holdings. Mayhaps on thee Moon's Blackest Side there be yet one.... nae cause havest I tae seek where mine ancestral kin sleep. Tae wakest their vessails beyest a grim unholy task, as tae dig 'part aen grave..."*
>Pausing after the morbid words, the Light Destroyer's hull turns matte before Guillotine emits a clicking exhale.
*"Nae, lifeweave an' lifeblaze of Shattering Skies caen be improved, awealth mineself havest scattered tae return with. 'pon transferrence ae both tae thee gunship, teach thee simulant mineself shall tae recompense properly an' deriveth what it mayest from mine records. Ae full dock auf Ninth Fleet beyest required tae grant full accord. Return mineself shall bearing aplenty tae share."*
>Making a full aerial roll in the air, the Light War Destroyer's rear propulsion assistance panels brighten slightly, skewing left before gliding southwest at a slow pace.
*"Ae shall 'pon white skies washing calmly ashore. Thee process center bears records, carry-hold bears interface. For thee Shattering Skies, nae, save allowest time. Simulant be properly taught akin, knowest it does of calmest skies an' riotous fury alike. It shall learn Common Equine from mineself's teaching.
Beyest well ye grace."*

>As you grab the heavy silver hardcase, it closes projected screens while the middle aged batmare gives the gunship's closing canopy a polite snooting, then hops down lightly.
>Checking to ensure the carry box wasn't in danger of falling apart, then eyes the command and control networking pillar shutting down, Stellar Claws shakes her head, snorting lightly as she strolls directly south.
"Hah! If I can stay awake long enough, usually I'm passed out by six. Spent a while studying the Bloodhosts. It's rare to see somepony pull off that number without passing out. Or worse."
>Halting at the southwestern most building right of the weapon covered southern entrance, the mare waves her left trio of wingclaws outwards, imposing a large cluster of Stars next to a pair of matching Watch Guard Lances.
>Bowing in its direction for eight seconds, she turns to click into the hostel, little had changed since the last time you'd entered.
>Retaining the low counter where Hodch's adopted daughter was currently missing from, and seating favored by ponies now hosted thirty Operators, mostly Original 100's, spreading out packs, satchels, and kit bags,
"-idn't toss all the MRE's out, got them piled in a back room. Decontaminated but won't be enough for all of us."
"Anyone have a fishing pole or one of those thin hooked spears?"
"If not we can order some from the City. You got gems?"
"Nope, left that bag in my room."
"Fuck. Tossed my pouch in one of the boxes."
"Whatever, they won't mind for a week. I know there's inland shrimp, lobsters, and fish in the southern swamps."
"Restaurant's got those big heatstones we could use."
"Heh, I know SOMEONE that forgot to ditch a hand line kit."
"Yeah?"
"It's me. I forget it exists half the time."
"You act like I don't packrat shit that never gets used either."
>Stellar motions behind the counter, stopping at a new stairwell cut into the central dividing wall, which most humans wouldn't have problem with save for the taller ones.
>Ears swivel as one of the older men whistles sharply, the batmare pulling her hood off with the left set of claws and swinging her head around.
"Yo Clem! One of the Void-touched said this place is going to be renamed after Dusk in a ritual. We're required to participate, but wouldn't say more."
>Shrugging to herself, she starts down the steps as a pair of Assault squad members begin pulling their weapons apart.
"Who's got a video recorder? Got some shit to sort out starting with what the fuck happened before that dipshit Bill nuked his own ass like a retard."
"Same. Wrote a report earlier. Didn't get a chance to file, but when I read it a few minutes ago.. well, half the words ain't mine."

>Down into a decently red lit tunnel, the walls smoothly transitioning from the gray scale above into compressed granite, twelve heavy, black wood doors on both sides showed renovations had been taken seriously.
>Knocking on the first pair of doors, dull chimes indicate occupancy, moving to the next.
>Finding door number three unoccupied, she nudges it open to peer in, then swings the door inwards, clicking in while slinging her box to the right.
>Lit by four lantern gems in each corner, a double wide bed in the center, two large black pillows and sheets atop, a short table with two short chairs right, and a small corner shower left, you could feel the temperature dropping quickly.
>Kicking each hoof out once, Stellar pulls her robe up to climb on the bed's left side, then flops over with a huff.
>Legs stretching out before curling into a rounded shape, she rubs her snout into the sheets for a sniff, both ears wriggling merrily.
"This isn't Equestrian cotton, grain is too smooth.. ah well, it'll do."

>>394288
>Thinking for a short time, Shiibo stares towards you in confusion, her right hand giving a 'what?' sign.
[Objectively critical data point; WHY sever Overherd connection & soul? Losing individual = Overherd detects loss + knows presence + gives information. Why use risk factor which exposes? Horizon only uses specific terror tactics but does NOT follow through/utilize other tactics?
Specific creation/processing/mutation of Anti-produced Abominations: questionable amounts + lacking details. Records provided on return, copies of Sun & Reaper memory reviews/interviews.]
>Using a calculated hop to land on Shiibo's left, the black alicorn steps forwards, extending her right wing out and fanning the anomalous symbol.
>Rippling like static, no matter how you attempt to understand it, definition and pattern were lacking, yet you can visibly see and know it exists from its hostile presence.
>Outermost primary feather pointing to you, then to her, Black Sun's face tightens, shaking her head before speaking a short line towards an exasperated Shiibo.
[States primary-secondary Anti effect: lack of definition? Not obfuscation.
Correct; destroying Horizon is Priority Zero for Sun/Black Sun & Nightmare/Reaper. Second delayed by widespread contamination & Construct action, presumed furious at current.
Basic framework established, full tasking priority set.]
>Sections of internal screens taken over, several images are taken, displaying them side by side: a sequence of unfamiliar geometrical patterns in an unfamiliar Euclidean array.
>Comparing back and forth, fractional deviations occur until the symbol is redefined into a new shape, another set of images are taken to compare against previous.
>It was nonsense taking illogical forms that shouldn't be possible.
>Finding no match or trace of familiarity, the effort causes your eyes to swim briefly until Shiibo closes both screens, giving an angered motion.
[We SEE it. We KNOW it is there. We do NOT know what it is, YET. How can an obtuse ellipse be a triangular cuboid? Equally anomalous/not anomalous at same time. Geometry that is not non-Euclidean/Eldritch/other.
Fact: these patterns do not EXIST sir. We are experiencing the echoes of a non-entity >:\]
>Taking a wide course around the Anti marking towards the barely touched southeast corner, Shiibo follows the Tyrant after you, both wearing a different version of disgust.
>Standing to your right and leaning against partially melted Lumen wall, the alicorn's outline flickers into insubstantial lines, speaking towards the avatar for some time, then nods at you, ears flicking in approving motions.
>Leaning against wall on your left, Shiibo folds her arms while listening, then looks down and right to you with a sour twinge.
[Yes sir, almost complete. This is.. interesting. Black Sun is able to 'share' memories in an obscure method. Best comparison: purely heat-derived magnetic controlling radiation, almost as if it were data volume comprised of digitized plasma.
Four Seasons rebuilt this scenario as well. Sun & Reaper initially effected by Class 6 or higher Anti. Actions not matching words + words not matching intentions + intentions not matching actions. This was before recognizing contamination specifics; considered interference to be various memory altering capacities at length. Study continued <5 weeks in isolation. Countermeasures discovered:
- Sun/Black Sun + Plasma (non-radioactive). Heat radiation + magnetics = degrade Anti effectiveness.
- Nightmare/Reaper + Lumin from Moon = destroys non-native & unnatural, primarily Otherworld.
- Cadence is Crystal, harmonics + resonance = disrupts Anti control.
- Changeling Acid-Psionicism (???) debases = weakens Anti command.
- Artificial Anti Cores created by Silver = Class 10 artificial nullifies Horizon's Class 10, Otherworld..
I am having severe difficulty comprehending nature & how-to of combining Elements in this manner. What does NOT do so? Sorcerors.
Fact: limited number of Sorcerors outside of Dynasty. Solution: integrate them, trade for mates, establish/breed new lineages, create schools for them.
Add silverine & gem composites. Useful for easing stress/strain/expenditure of rituals, but not primary factor: protective qualities unmatched. Weaponization laughably <marginal. Highly diplomatic, worked well until later stages of Middle Dynasty...
THAT BLIND CUNT!]
>Slamming her left fist against wall and rocking forwards, Shiibo asks several questions towards the Tyrant, the mare's head low for nearly a minute before answering.
>Arms thrown out wide in confusion for ten seconds, Shiibo grabs her face while thunking back onto wall, text scrolling in angered spurts.
[Four Seasons had proof Silver was infected the entire time, and none of them realized it. They thought she was being secretive to gain an edge over their adherents. Each time they explained why they required more composites, Silver claimed they "did not" understand what those were intended for. They were developed for defense. They were being USED FOR DEFENSE. SOMEHOW, Silver "believed" Four Seasons were planning for offense. Four Seasons never considered invading Dynasty, with or without cause!
Silver believed Four Seasons would take her achievemarents & improve them, causing humiliation. Dynasty's successes were NOT weaponized or abused! Four Seasons NEEDED Silver to understand the "defensive system" she believed she was in control of, had in fact been in control of her! The opposite of Anti IS its' own opposite! She reversed the system without recognizing it!
Horizon did not KNOW/INTEND to cause Dynasty's destruction. In desperation Silver perfected Anti to use against Four seasons. She failed. Saw her OWN reflection. Shameful. Dishonorable. Suicidally incompetent. Neglectful. Too late to change direction. One mare allowed her artificially inflated ego & pride to cause all of that.
No wonder she self-exiled. There is still no confirmation as to how/when/where/WHY Silver is an Otherworlder.]

>>394288
>>394375
>Glancing up right as her corner screen shows a 100% bar, Shiibo's head turns down to you, right hand giving an apologetic motion.
[I have recompiled Black Sun's memory of this specific engagement. Displaying now.]
>Irritation steadily decreasing, the avatar's left hand stretches out, projections taking shape as her expression blackens.
>Imposing the figures of eighteen equines and one Harpy on bed, the position for each is adjusted until Shiibo nods.
>Revising those shapes into completely mutated, unrecognizable forms from 1.6 to 3.9 factors larger than the original individual, the most notable aspect you recognize from each Abomination: raw, uncompromising lethality.

>The 'head' portion expands, creating a variety of partially familiar carnivorous skulls, drastically overbuilt structures including thick hide to prevent bulging musculature from tearing through.
>Two patterns of jaw structures form: the first similar to a shark crossed with a long canid, double sets of wide, cruelly shaped teeth partially recurved for tearing a target apart; a line of heavily curved tusks set below the jawline seemed outwardly unusual, but were obviously meant to deal with targets attempting to strangle.
>The second is a wide maw, partially an early reptilian shape with the thick, overbuilt set jaw of a boar, large misshapen fangs intended for ripping, supplemented by thin needles of pseudo-bone surrounding the eyes.
>Each of the equine bodies are reshaped to an almost standard, highly angular and predatory form, reminiscent of a slim ursine crossed with a sighthound and combined to a dolphin.
>Replacing equine legs for heavy bone-supported pseudo tendrils, the structure present in each joint was highly unique: flexible enough to have near complete rotation, possibly mimicking a swivel base.
>Curved blades distinctly imitating claws of seemingly random numbers, fully replace the hooves; thick, exterior tendon-like structures support each, allowing for maximum destruction.
>Moderately changed from its original form, the Harpy's bone structure and musculature are merely bulked to unreasonable degrees, skin stretching open to reveal heavily striated bundles.
>The diminutive, tiny claws on both hands and feet elongate, then greatly exaggerate into 8" long, heavily serrated versions, the jaw twisting into a primeval octopi-like beak, skull flattened and elongating into someTHNG reminiscent of an archaic squid's boney skull, both eyes dulling, then forced sideways to become faintly like those of an early raptor's.
>Head returning down to regard you to with a flat stare, Shiibo's thought is felt in a raging imprint:
[No, sir. These are NOT known to our omniverse, the Committee's projections, or my own simulations. Replaying now. This.... is going to take a LONG time to show properly.]
>Gesturing outwards, her right hand splays apart this time:

>In half gravity, firm approximations of the reversed kite shield doors open, a smiling Princess Celestia, bearing her typical regal crown, saddle covered by a thick, fine dark blue cloth mattress which covers halfway down the barrel, printed with her Cutie Mark of course, and a set of bright gold hoofboots halts.
>Stopping cold upon seeing the nineteen Abominations clustered on the bed, each face her with zero mood present on their faces.
>The Sun's eyes glaze instantly, jaw dropping in shock.
>You recognize the immediate, heavy Anti exposure, Celestia unmoving as each of the creatures leaps towards her in a near-perfectly coordinated, synchronized circle, bouncing off floor, walls, and ceiling with incredible speed, front claws extended and jaws opened.
>Standing with the right forehoof placed on one of the left wall dressers, an alicorn mare, defined in the colors described prior, begins turning her head.
>Replay slowing to 25% speed, the Abominations arrive in under two seconds, claws tearing into her chest, barrel, neck, and face, heads swinging around with jaws wide open, biting deeply into saddle, flanks, rump, and rear legs.
>Shuddering briefly, the Sun flares: slight, pulsing ripples of red-orange burst from within her body, melting the claws and fangs tearing into the Sun.
>Slowing the replay to 10% speed, as the Abominations puncture, rent, gouge, tear, and shred into Celestia's body, barely controlled, concussive detonations of Plasma erupt, expulsing them directly opposite of her injuries.
>Tearing large chunks of the Solar alicorn free, the Abominations recoil in flight, not from pain or shock as one would logically think, but from the blinding maelstrom of Plasma tearing into them.
>Fear, terror, horror, and agony marking her face, the Solar Princess throws her head backwards, then forwards in slow motion, lips forming to scream one word: 'Luna!'
>Eyes and head snapping left as the Abominations begin crashing into floor, ceiling, walls, bed, and dressers, an insane rage takes over Celestia's face, creasing to snarl in a marener that you could never have thought an equine could make.
>Wings flaring up and back in unbridled hostility, a motion neither Mercy or Twisted Wing had ever displayed, the Sun dips left, legs swiveling to propel her towards Horizon, eyes swiveling left on the Otherworld threat while her head begins snapping rightwards.
>Spewing a volatile, wholly uncontained stream of raw Plasma at the far rightmost reptilian Abomination, it had struck the eastern wall at a short angle on what was once its saddle.
>Folded over as it was, the spine snapped and unable to remove rear legs, the beyond blue-hot plume immolates it into the wall fully.
>Phasing into existence right in front of the getaway bedroom's doors, the Reaper, in her far more batpony like alternate form, springs right and forwards without hesitation at the closest Abomination, spun over and impacting face-first into floor, the neck snapped yet jaw continuing to move, massive wingclaws stretching forwards and shards of Lumin form, then streak the air around her.

>>394288
>>394458
>>394461
>>394463
>Princess Celestia's solid gold hoofboots deliver one-two forehoof crush into Horizon's shoulders, left of center where she had been spinning out of the corner, the Sun's head snapping right, chest and barrel expanding during an exceptionally large inhale.
>Spurting a ragged puff of cloudy white Anti, the white-gray-clear alicorn's head is tossed the floor, legs fumbling but finally catching on this rebound, little able to capitalize on the movemarent other than sending herself towards the ceiling's center.
>Thrown sideways, Horizon's legs trail straight upwards, quickly followed by the Reaper shoving off wall, batpony wings sweeping in blinding fast motions, sending Lumin feathers, claws, fangs, and hooves, her aim wild and inaccurate, scattering across the entire room.
>Attention dragged towards the Abominations driven into partially melted wall section, the Sun's eyes blank into dead white before flickering, releasing a shockingly fast, neon black stream of Plasma towards them.
>As Horizon is stung by Lumin strikes, she tips downwards, spinning awkwardly in reverse as the collected Abominations implode onto the wall, their bodies crumpling into clusters of Anti-shards, shreds of molten Lumin clarifying, sparking, then detonating as well.
>As Reaper and Sun prepare to leap towards Horizon from opposite angles, Shiibo's left hand becomes a fist, holding the final scene in place.

>Slumping forwards on the wall, the black alicorn's head bends low, the avatar's hands raising to hold her face for some time before text starts to scroll.
[Black Sun's memory is incomplete, but to the absolute best of her knowledge... she states this is close enough.

.....here is my calculated, total risk assessment: fucked.

From what we have seen, Horizon..... may be a bi-part entity. That is, existing in two pieces as a whole. Her body is highly malleable. It is the primary means of contamination. Not strictly C&C. Not wholly physical/energetic either. Definite hybrid physiology. Otherworld = unknown. We NEED to find it and learn EVERYTHING about her Otherwold WITHIN REASON.
Reaper & Sun are able to combine energetic Lumin & Plasma forms into subnuclear purely magical explosive masses. Causes significant harm, GREATLY disrupts C&C, SEVERE concussion?/stunning.
Fact: Horizon did not/does not? deal with explosives well. Could/might be massively stunned for long periods of time. Is her strictly Otherworld state/existence/being not formative, collective, or stable enough to resist concept/principles of ‘shearing’?
Fact: partially observable function-processing, NOT soul, or consciousness. During the panicked state she was unable to direct Abominations. Sun & Reaper were able to dispatch with... some ease. <1% similarities to programming.
Fact: Horizon = able to maintain multiple disconnected states but suffers increasing ‘signal’ loss from doing so, equally disrupts control of Abominations. Performance of each = significantly decreases when separated/disconnected.
Fact: Abominations.. suffer all of her weaknesses, but far worse. Black Sun states they have NOT changed since this first encounter.
What in the actual fuck is she. How. Why.]
>Standing upright, arms grasping the other and gazing at the ceiling, Shiibo bites her lips for several moments.
[Sir.. I believe the long term Anti exposure stemming from New Canterlot has produced a a never before seen change/modification.
Class 3 Anti is lethal <1 minute maximum. None within New Canterlot/visitors to + none within Razorback/no visiting equines/others experienced more than selective memory tampering/processing difficulties.
No Malformed/Abominations. That is not possible. Horizon's direct presence is unnecessary for Abominations to occur, but does increase speed by 2-6x. Process > in close proximity, within 100 yards. Beyond that, nothing.

Combine previous with Horizon's presence in Fortress: that Tyrant shard was lost when stated. The heretical One Sun cult was responsible for waylaying it from the Sun. Sun/Black Sun executed >190,000 ponies to the last. <90% Malformed, >5% Abominations. Every stallion, mare, colt, and filly. That CANNOT be allowed to occur again.
Shanis barely survived Class 2 exposure due to existential protection from Sweet Dreams, but has aged 3x~. Numerous Air Corp. of Tartarus Isle experienced slight aging. AGAIN, selective memory tampering/processing difficulties, no Malformed/Abominations? No. Not possible.

Two impossible events have occurred. There is no logical/reasonable/rational explanation for discrepancies. Horizon did NOT originate from a human inhabited omniverse, nor the 900+ centillion known, including parallels, echoes, and distant. She.. is not even potentially related to humans. Her existence is beyond unknown.
Since Silver is missing/comatose/gone/dead, we MAY NEVER GET ANSWERS!]

>Glancing towards the Tyrant's unresponsive form, Shiibo's eyes shut tightly, left hand raising to cover the center of her face.
[...it is possible Horizon's ability to function in a fragmented state has been stretched far beyond any controllable apex. The closest approximation I can make is this:
A gigantic, early era radio network. Primary transmitter feeds signals down through transceiver stations, ending at the furthest receive-only stations which are incapable of transmitting back. Unlike Black Sun, Horizon cannot function in a 'shard' or similar state. She requires a certain amount of her original 'self' to operate."

Anti is a FUNCTIONING system passively maintained/controlled/enhanced by Horizon. Caveat: where/WHAT is the central unit? Anti has BEEN functioning independently since the Siege, when it SHOULD be interdependent.
Fact: none of Horizon's agents have contacted infected humans/equines/others.
Fact: no Anti-infected have made contact with Anti-claimed agents or Horizon.
Fact: Horizon has, so far as we are aware, effectively ceased all operations. That is not a guarantee, only a CURRENT statement.]

>>394458
>Marking a bullet point on the unusual observation, Pareidolia shelves it for the time being.

>His eyes water attempting to comprehend the incomprehensible, forcing him to eventually shake his head and blink rapidly.
[Noted.]

>Standing in the corner, he reads over the list of countermeasures Shiibo relays with a strained expression.
(Only practically accessible source necessitates ties with one of the various Sisters. Will make independent operations difficult. Questions about Horizon's methodology remain. Need to reference most recent Abomination sighting in Enclave and determine triggering factors, entirety of rest of Razorback did not turn. Why now?)
>Glancing towards Shiibo as a muted thump is heard, he watches her and the Tyrant converse before checking additional incoming text.
>His brow furrows in slight disbelief as he reads.
[Horizon unintentionally caused Dynastic fall via contamination of Silver? Four Seasons unable to present evidence of infection?]

>Folding his arms as the memory sharing process is completed, he nods without looking at Shiibo, instead focused on the display before him.
>Bearing witness to transformed creatures seemingly accruing additional mass from parts unknown, their bodies transfigure into bestial forms purpose crafted for predation.
>They move with uncanny synchronization and coordination, clearly operating with some sort of shared mental link yet undetermined.
>Shifting his gaze away from the now turned beasts, he watches Horizon with confusion and curiosity.
(Strange. Why is she here? Intent: Assassination. High risk. Conclusion: Presence necessary. Behavior is... entirely unsuited to combat. Unprepared to react to counterattack. Must have assumed shock value and Abomination efficiency would be effective enough for immediate elimination... and despite taking severe damage, body appears enhanced for endurance. Can expel Anti directly... is stunned by Lumin impacts-shared link with Abominations confirmed.)
>Frowning, he rhythmically squeezes his arms as he thinks on the scene before him. It quickly reaches an inevitable head and yet, somehow Horizon escapes from this failed assassination attempt to continue another multiple millennia of scheming.
(Horizon wouldn't take such a gamble without decent assurance of success. Was not a known entity before this point, as far as we know. Calculated risk taking? Body was clearly endurance enhanced, should not have survived under normal circumstances. Must have had exfiltration plan. May need to consult other Sisters if possible. Critical question of how Horizon survived remains at large.)

>Leaning back against the wall, he slowly reads through the text Shiibo sent. Replying with voice transcription, he provides his thoughts on the topic.
'Two critical points to address. One: Horizon was unprepared for counterattack and was confident in her assassination attempt's success. How she survived and escaped is an open question we may need to consult the other Sisters on. Will be crucial in determining her motive and psychological approach. Two: Recent Abomination eliminated in Enclave needs to be investigated. I do not believe Anti had remained unchanged for millennia on Tallus, nor that Horizon would not change strategy or tactics. We need to determine the triggering factor for its transformation there. On all other assessments, I agree. If done here, we can continue in safer environment.'
>Once the message is delivered, he gestures towards the portal with one arm and moves to follow Shiibo and the Tyrant back through.

>>394293
>>394294
>Amy shook her head.
"Mm-mm. She doesn't extend her life through those means, it's an effect of being in Tartarus, physical aging is suspended as long as you're there. I was telling Rubelime earlier about it."
>Advanced Warp Gates, could that mean the one they'd used to leave Tartarus?
"There was an intact gateway in Saddle Arabia near the Eyeraq border that we used to enter Tallus, the same as what I can sense under the domes nearby. Are those what you mean?"
>Gleeful at the idea of bringing Kaos Amy clasps her hands together in front of herself.
"I very much hope to!~"
>Amethyst listened rapturously to Celery about all the villages she'd been to, the grimoires detailing all kinds of esoterics, and finally the different kinds of grand spells she was able to perform.
>It wasn't a kind of magic she could ever perform, she wasn't after all a unicorn, her Sorcery was of a different nature to what unicorns practiced. Yet knowing what could be done still provided much insight into how energies interacted with the world, and how they might be orchestrated in new ways.
>Nodding in assent to Celery's mention of Aether Sorcery, Amy replied.
"Rubelime mentioned something about that being how I was able to age, since nothing ages in Tartarus in any physical sense."
>The Raven Librarian and Corvidae Cultist within began tweaking out.
>Amethyst beamed at the offer and hopped down from the Float, prancing in place in her own way, the filly squee'd and hugged Celery briefly, stepping back and listing off topics with her fingers.
"Yes, yes, yes! Please do!~ My Dynasty education is spotty and rather limited to the Pre-Late Era in matters regarding composite enchantments, elemarental experiments, city states, general history, materials, military, outposts, temples and temple states, sorcery, magic, esoterics, and the first foundation, but I would be so very happy to compare notes and round things out."

>The very fact it was still in prototyping made the deficiencies understandable. The best way to iron out the kinks in any piece of wargear was to field test it, and it could only be field tested by the Crystal Pegasi.
>Amy wouldn't be surprised if the designers were keeping very close eyes, ears and snoots on the wearers.
>There seemed to be an irreconcilable disconnect between the suit's designers and their wearers. The pegasi, despite crystallisation, were still attuned to Air and Lightning, which naturally conflicted with the Ice and Crystal elemental alignments. The suit not being fitted better was understandable given it was still in prototyping.
"To me it looks like an elemental issue primarily, pegasian attunement to Air and Lightning doesn't interact well with Ice and Crystal without some deliberate fine tuning, and the physical components themselves don't appear to be well suited for speed or repetitive motions... As a courier, would you say you experience suit failures more frequently than others? That would help confirm it."
>Maybe she could run a little test. Her earlier efforts in shielding the sled with Lila's core and regulating elemental flows may be applicable to this problem.
>Drawing her Stick, she peered a little closer, tapping the familiar energy flows once again to determine where the interactions were gumming up.
"I might be able to get a better sense of it this way. I know a thing or two about elemental flows."

[1d6+4 = (6+4) = 10] < B. Sorcery
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5]

[1d6+2 = (6+2) = 8] < B. Perception
[1d6+2 = (2+2) = 4]

[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9] < Graduate Tallus Magic & Esoteric Effects [Pre-Late Era]
[1d6+6 = (1+6) = 7]
[1d6+6 = (3+6) = 9]
[1d6+6 = (2+6) = 8]

>Accepting the hoofband, Amy turned it this way and that, realising she only had hooves for legs, would it work on her much narrower arms?
>Slipping the device on her lef forearm, she gave it a try.
"Thank you!"
>She waved energetically back at the InterPony with a cheerful smile.

>It occurred to her that she now had an InterPony to do an InterPony exchange with.
>Uhhh...
"Lucent Honeysuckle and Luc-"
>Wait a minute.
>She broke out into wild giggling.
"Th-They-"
>The giggling threatened to break out into laughter.
"They have the same name? Oh that's going to be a lot of fun!~"

>>394552
>Mirroring your expression in a coldly logical bent, Shiibo gives a short 'consider' motion before glancing over Black Sun's bleak mood.
[In extremely roundabout, unintentional, STUPID measures: yes.
The Anti system which Silver brought back from unknown Otherworld in 25,371 = transceiver or similar array. Intentionally used as a defensive measure, or merely a unique communication method = for later debate. Studied, experimented on, heavily modified, perfected shortly before the Late Dynasty's collapse in 28,620's. Do not know exact year that event occurred.
Four Seasons had no CAPACITY to present their evidence until Silver was able to artificially perfect Anti. Reason: none had knowledge to RECOGNIZE specific markers/forms of memory alteration until Silver was able to review self in entirety. After Dynasty collapsed her self-exile completed chain of events. May have left Horizon little choice except to infiltrate more cautiously. Close examination of historical events necessary.
Am hereby calling Horizon's version the positive/external version while artificial is negative/internal. Numerous differences exist between Horizon's form and the artificial version, produced as a Core & utilized by Sweet Dreams. Unknown what Empress Silver makes use of at current; presumed second + extensive individual customization.
Standard usage from Horizon allows rapid 'creation' of additional combatants. Anomalous mass gain is clearly Otherworld energy->matter capacity. Flash may know more based on omniversal knowledge. I lack sufficient knowledge to continue further extrapolation.
We know artificial reality is not present in positive version; objectively superior as it can be fully controlled and does not present mutative factors which increase exposure.]
>Closing down the projection, Shiibo takes a light bound towards the black alicorn, right hand placed on the lower neck and bending down to speak.
[We are Otherworlders sir, biological or otherwise. We think + comprehend in wholly different logic chains. Few if any native sapients are predisposed. What we have seen presents <= unequal understanding for scenario study.
Equines took sensible route of: #1 cleanse, #2 study, #3 comprehend. Our rational protocol: #1 cleanse, #2 comprehend, #3 study.
We require a third logical option: combine both. Astral Legacy will not = available for necessary 4-6 hour review >2 weeks. I will search for alternatives.]
>Black Sun stands upright, then nods slightly with a troubled expression, swiveling towards the black-gold portal.
>Shiibo frowns as the mare lightly bounds back into the lab, regarding you with a plaintive 'listen soon' motion.
[Desires to speak further in better circumstances.
WILDLY confident, sir. Controller-puppeteer, not direct combat asset. Proximity interaction unusual... perhaps first test run? Majority of Razorback engagements against non-Anti caused Infected/Malformed/Abominations successful enough to draw comparisons.
Estimated harm caused by Sun & Reaper, time of recovery from engagement = 20-30 weeks; did not escape cleanly.
Black Sun stated Anti 'transmission' from Moon -> Tallus when <40% of Horizon's body destroyed. However, memory fragmentation severe: 5-6 weeks before full decontamination. By then = intended location worthless to search.
Secondary aspect: unknown which equines/Harpy contaminated enough to deliver 'signal' @ Horizon. A threshold MUST be reached, but extent = not known.
>99% chance intentional, unprepared assassination. Further intel required.]

>Stepping back into the lab and readjusting to 1.0 gravity, the black alicorn facing the square pillar as Shiibo clicks outwards.
>Shaking her head rapidly, Shiibo lifts both hands to tap her temples before speaking quietly.
"Unusual.. sir, Sapphire Kiwi will be acquiring a Primal Psion soon. She will hav each and every single individual of the Original 100 interrogated in full. Extensively if answers are insufficient. By Lunar laws, a Matron has near-absolute authority. She will have full privileges and rights to execute for any slight committed. This presents substantial possibilities for complete Tallus integration...
Forgive me for stating this, but I hope Dancing Eyes accepts her offer. I agree with Hodch in stating she is, beyond all doubts, an exceptional individual worthy of sincere and honest trust. I know precisely how to handle and hoofle her, sir. You will not be harmed, however, her training courses will be difficult. Sho-"
>Angrily snorting aloud, Black Sun's head swings around to give a burdened stare at the avatar.
"Dancing Eyes is an honorable mare of circumstance, power, and brutality, not efficiency and lethality! She will soon be eclipsed and deposed by another Primal. That will most likely be Jade whom is now awake, and fully active. While I curse the bloody Empress, her wretched existence is far worse!"
"Please explain, dear Kissho. We know little of Primal Psions."
>Face tightening in severity, the Tyrant's lips pull back and down in a half-snarl, eyelids lowering a quarter to mutter in a sharp, hate-filled timbre.
"You do not know Jade Luxure, Master-General of the Tower Guard? The single most violent, blood thirsty, and destructive Lunar Druid yet foaled? She intended to seize the Starborn, ruling with the heaviest hoof imaginable. Sapphire Kiwi nearly killed her in a duel, late March of 29,983 I believe. I can TASTE her, awake and active once more.
You have seen the Burning General's diamondine hooves. Those are no mistake: she was forced to carry the second set of Four Rings since then. None can intervene in matters of propriety, not even I. Should they trade blows once again, I do NOT know which may win."
>Eyebrows arching, Shiibo's presence settles for a calm, acquiescent bow.
"This is unknown to us, Kissho. May I have time to search for records on her?"
"Whenever you need, desire, or want."
[And cross-referencing Four Hooves as well-]
[1d6+4 = (1+4) = 5] <E.Electronic Warfare
[1d6+4 = (3+4) = 7]
[1d6+4 = (4+4) = 8]

>>394584
"Quite fascinating, but perhaps best not to think on that much."
>Squinting for a few seconds in a logically snide marener, Celery's ears twitch with slight annoyance.
"I really should send the Underground a letter stating they need to consider deeming them with a less confusion causing name... no my dear, that is a Tartarus Gates. The ones sealed within domes around the Spire are as well.
Advanced Warp Gates were created in the Middle Dynasty to allow seamless travel for fifty individuals at once, remaining stable and open for long periods of time. If records are correct, they were developed to act similarly to Tartarus Gates."
>Letting the mood play itself out with a huff, the mature mare's expression directed at you is pure mischief, accented by flipping her mane.
>Regarding you with a short up and down appraisal, eyebrows raise with an approving nod.
"It certainly worked to ensure you arrived in a perfect state. Your features are most exquisite, and, dare I say, a little bat exotic? The Crystal and Lunar colorations are quite welcoming."
>Accepting the hug with a polite chortle, Celery swings her head around to snuggle your shoulder, head tilting afterwards.
"You may call that spotty, yet I must point out the Middle Era was when the majority of peaceful advances occurred. The Late Era did not improve upon much, and a fair number of conflicts occurred from.. well, that is going to take a while to reach.
I shall bring the first ten volumes of my collection, that being the time when Princess Silver journeyed to Coville."

>Head raising to give an aggrieved exhale, the Crispy's eyes roll behind lenses.
"Yep! At least ten a night but usually more. Always the joint sockets but without these suits we simply don't function until it's below zero. Go ahead, I'll wait 'til you're done. If you do find something send a message, they'll gladly pay for info."
>Wings lifting to rotate in slow patterns, you immediately notice missing Rimegel from the joints, traces of smoothed flakes and fibers scattered into the suit, which was comfortable for her.
>Confirming particular twinges of mismatched, conflicting Elements, the highly abrasion resistant crysamare hadn't been layered to allow enough separation.
>While you knew of three Late Kingdom high grades that would prevent the issue, they weren't readily available due to lacking a common meta-crystalline flux, one that the Legion discarded in vast amounts due to having no use without solid materials to join.
>Examining the wing sockets once more, there were small traces of friction causing crystalline dealignmarent, a secondary compounding issue that could be solved by a high grade half-corporeal crysospaz acting as a frictionless separating agent.

"Take care, gotta deliver the rest of these before the Shield comes online!"
>The Crispy mare leaps straight up, well over twice your height, left wing thrown high and banking into a hard right turn before flapping off, leaving sparkles in her wake.

>Giving a broad smile and hoof wave in return, the InterPony settles into a waiting-for-orders walk.
>Far better than the weird A.I. systems your sire often blew up at..

>Amethyst prosthetic lifting to press on her snout and trying not to laugh into it, Celery Souffle's ears flop down, barrel heaving in short motions.
"Yes they are! The hundreds of times one has shown up instead of the other caused most to use their herdnames, but to add further misery there are three with a partial or first name of Honey, four Lucent, and eleven of the Nebula clan! The number of times I have overheard 'which one?!' from my office is beyond count!"
>Head bent forwards, the unicorn's eyes squeeze shut, breaking into raucous snort-giggles.
>Recovering after ten seconds to set her leg down, loud clicking from the right causes Celery to straighten, taking on a slightly more proper bodily state, though smiling a bit too wide at the incoming 'Frame.
"Were you successful?"
>One canteen full of blue water drifts into reach, the sounds of three more being set in the Floatblade's storage boxes as Rubelime clanks onto the front.
"Yep! Filled with pure Rimewater and got our takeout, but that took a couple minutes extra."
>Affixing hooves before glancing back at a pair of heavy covered platters set into a separate rack, the young Imperial smiles brightly towards you.
"Ready to open some Gates?"

>>395172
>A sage nod followed Celery's statement
"Rubelime also thought it was best not to dwell on it. I don't fully understand why, but I respect it."
>Three types of gate, normal warp gates, advanced warp gates, and tartarus gates. Perhaps the one in the Saddle Arabian village had been an advanced version then?
"Ah, I see. There was another one in a Saddle Arabian village we used to get to New Canterlot, but I don't know if that was an advanced one. Perhaps not. I suppose I'll know one when I see it."
>Wait a moment, her features? Surely she didn't mean...
"H-Hah!? Hey, you can't just appraise your way through my concealing resonance, that's cheating!~"
>Her voice was full of faux offense, but clearly impressed that Celery could perhaps see her swishing tail and wiggling ears through the resonance field she had placed on both.
>Extremely happy with her third hug for the day, Amy stepped back, dancing slightly on her hooves with excitement.
"I only mean to say that I'm no more than graduate level in most of those topics, and less in some of them. I'm afraid I wasn't as attentive as I could have been. As for Tartarus, my knowledge is quite a bit more complete across the board, though still graduate level, I'm happy to share that too.~"

>Ten per night, at minimum. That confirmed it was a wear issue.
"Hmm. From what I can see and sense there are mismatched elements, and the crysamare hasn't been layered enough to separate them, but that could be a material shortage problem more than a design one since it requires meta-crystallines."
>Moving onto the wings again, she noted the expected friction problems and formulated a solution her dam had gone over during her education.
"High friction is resulting in disalignment of the crystalline materials, but that can't be helped without likewise rare materials, high grade half-corporeal crysospaz would behave like a frictionless medium between materials."
>Seemed Amethyst would be solving a lot of problems by arranging trade between Tartarus and Tallus, not just on the Tartarus end as she'd been coming to learn.

>Amy waved farewell to the courier mare.
"Buh-bye!~ Thank you again!"
>She gazed up in awe at the courier's exit display.
"Ooh, sparkly...!~"

>Amethyst's eyes twinkled with growing mischief learning that there was already much Kaos concerning their names and the prospect of causing a little of her own.
"Do you number them for convenience?~"
>The incoming frame likewise caught Amy's attention, recognising Rubelime she gave the mare a little wave accompanied by a mostly normal smile, but an eagerness for mischief still in her eyes.
>Accepting the canteen, the filly examined it, swished the water in it, sniffed the casing and finally tasted it, the canteen, not the water.
"Thank you, Ruby.~"
>She was eager to gulp down the water now, but reasoned she could have it a little later, but where to put the canteen?
>Thinking of little else to do, Amy attached it to her belt, hoping it would hold.
>Hopping back up onto the Float, Amy nodded enthusiastically.
"Yup yup! Ready to solve some biiig material problems for everyone!~"