You start to try to circle around the crowd to the best of your ability, which is a task that is somewhat difficult for the three of you given the amount of people around. Ending up bumping into a couple of ponies as you make your way over. As you get closer you look up at the sign hanging above the store.
"Spring's Desserts"
The three of you finally push through the crowd and end up somewhat near Smoke and Tanssija, the two of them quickly noticing you as you make your way over.
"Have you two been enjoying yourselves?" You ask as you finally reach them.
"Yeah, though we didn't get to do much, things are starting to become packed now," Smoke replies, "What about you guys?"
"Things have been good," Hannu nods, "Where's Iiro, by the way?"
"Inside the store. He wanted to get something." Tanssija explains.
Using your soul sight you look inside the store and find Armas inside, his soul being easy to pick out now with how close you are.

What do you do?

bump

>>42521448
Ask about what he's looking for and check to see if he needs help finding it?

>>42522381
Hearing this, you trot up to the door of the shop and peek inside. You quickly find him at the counter getting an order finished, which slides over a counter to him in a bag. He thanks the Unicorn mare running the counter as he slowly takes the bag and lifts it with a hoof. He keeps his movements slow as he turns around, the bag following his hoof but it lags behind each movement he makes by a little less than a second. Thankfully, this is something that isn't noticeable unless someone was looking for it specifically.
Finally spotting you, he smiles a little and makes his way over to you. He stops a few feet in front of you.
"You doing alright?" You ask.
"Yeah, and sorry about that," He apologizes, "I just wanted to get something... and try something else."
Giving him a look over, you can see that he seems to be doing better though some melancholy from Pallas' temple still hangs over him a bit.

What do you do?

>>42522501
Suggest if he doesn't want to about it. She more than welcome to just be here to sit and listen to him vent being considerate of his well-being like a true friend.

Stopping for the night. Don't know if my regulars are here or anons that read my stuff, or if anyone really cares at this point. Anyway...
Sorry again for disappearing for, I think, two months? I am going to be honest I just had a lot of stuff going on. I was really busy, stressed about employment which I am still very much stressed by though it is better. Ever since I graduated as well I have just been burnt out and trying to push through it in early and mid summer turned out to not be a great idea, and just kinda doubting my skills in writing anything at all. I am feeling better now though, no longer burnt out and I want to keep writing, if there is anyone left that is interested in what I have now or want something new at this point.
Feels like this is a rant and a blog post at this point and I am sorry for that. With that...
I will try to keep going.

>>42522501
"Get something, and try something else?"
We press him to elaborate, as politely as we can.

"You haven't had any difficulty with the crowds, have you? I have had, some..."
We frown slightly, not hiding our discomfort with numbers from him, but asking for a very different reason.
'His ability to manipulate items is extraordinary but his natural incorporeal-ness is still something we have to worry about... I hope I haven't worried the others by pressing forward so much.'

>>42522656
Afternoon, Pluto!
Been checking every other/couple days, hoping you might pop up again soon. Would've reached out via Fimfic, but didn't want to be a bother when I assumed you're already stressing about employment (right there with you). Got an interview tomorrow though.
Remember, people can be their own worst critics. You've made worlds and characters people (and I truly believe there are more than just myself) think about fondly and quite often. Just hard to coordinate this stuff.

>>42522579
>>42524495
Like I said, it is getting better and I have a lot of support that I am thankful for right now. And you are not wrong about being your own worst critic.

"Get something, and try something else?" You ask politely.
"I saw that they were selling Deer desserts here and I just wanted to get one," He explains before speaking a bit quieter, "And now that I am a little... stronger, I wanted to see if I could manipulate things. It works pretty well though I am still getting the hang of it."
"You haven't had any difficultly with the crowds, have you? I have had, some..."
You trail off and frown slightly, not hiding your discomfort with numbers from him, but asking for a very different reason.
'His ability to manipulate items is extraordinary but his natural incorporeal-ness is something we have to worry about... I hope I haven't worried the others by pressing forward so much.'
"I have been managing, though with how big the crowds are getting I don't know if it will be smart of me to keep going," He says, frowning slightly as well, "As much as I would like to."
"You been doing okay otherwise?" You ask.
"Yeah, just still some stuff to think about." He nods, keeping his answer vague.

What do you do?

>>42524747
Inching forward, we reply softly.
"I may not be the best at showing it, or the voice of experience, but if you need an ear I will listen. In the meanwhile, if there is somewhere you wish to visit, we could head out with you keeping between myself and Hannu. And, if that treat is for yourself, I could..."
We trail off deliberately, looking him over pointedly then down at ourself, trying to hint at him possessing us.
"If you ever feel the need for some, perspective, I owe you that much."
'... I do need to procure some treats for Kost and Master... and, my mother.'

>>42524809
You inch forward a bit, replying to him softly.
"I may not be the best at showing it, or the voice of experience, but if you need an ear I will listen. In the meantime, if there is somewhere you wish to visit, we could head out with you keeping between myself and Hannu. And, if that treat is for yourself I could..."
You trail off again, looking at him pointedly and then down at yourself. It takes him a moment but he nods in understanding.
"If you ever feel the need for some, perspective, I owe you that much."
'...I do need to procure some treats for Kost and Master... and, my mother.'
"...If you're fine with that, but you also don't need to do that for me," He tells you, "I can't really think of much else besides sight seeing before the Radonitsa celebrations start, which I believe is a few hours from now."

What do you do?

>>42525004
Head back outside to the others and discuss what other activities they can do together before the Radonitsa festivities begin. Also tell him he should cheer up and that we hope he isn't going to stay gloomy throughout the rest of the day. He's with friends in a night out of fun; he needs to focus on what's happening here and now otherwise constantly thinking about what's bothering him all the time isn't healthy and not going to get him any answers. At sad times like this is the most crucial moment to rely and lean on your friends we can't help him if he doesn't try to reach out to us if he does it will lighten the burden he carrying inside, so he doesn't have to face it alone.

>>42525004
We would place a comforting hoof on his shoulder if we didn't think it too risky. We do speak a little more firmly though.
"Iiro. I'm offering because I want to, and am quite fine with it. Will you be comfortable carrying that around? It might be easiest to handle this if we retire back to camp for a little bit, and... it would allow me to speak with Dawyn about, myself."

Place an order for three Vatrushka and see about reuniting with the others.

>>42525062
>Also tell him he should cheer up and that we hope he isn't going to stay gloomy throughout the rest of the day.
No. He (Iiro, aka Armas) has been partially resurrected centuries in the future, and is actively grieving his dead fiance/doefriend AND himself. We can be supportive and point out everyone is here for him if he'd like to open up, but Luscinia would not be callus enough to say he shouldn't be such a downer.

>>42525062
>>42525116
You are tempted to place a comforting hoof on his shoulder, but decide against it as it would be too risky. You do speak a little more firmly with him though.
"Iiro. I'm offering because I want to, and am quite fine with it," You say, "Will you be comfortable carrying that around? It might be easiest to handle this if we retire back to camp for a little bit, and... it would allow me to speak with Dawyn about, myself."
"I think I will be able to manage that."
"And like I said before, I will listen if you need someone," You tell him, "And some of the others will listen as well."
"Thank you."
You place a quick order for three Vatruskha and get them pretty quick. Once that is done the two of you trot back out to find the others waiting.
"Sorry about that, anything going on?" You ask.
"Not really," Smoke shakes his head, "Tanssija and I did ask around a bit to see if there is anything going on though we didn't find much."
"They are looking for some volunteers to clean some graves at the cemetery before Ponies start arriving, but that is about it." Tanssija adds.

What do you do?

>>42525342
"Does anybody want to volunteer to clean up the graves before the Radonitsa celebration starts or does someone has another idea we could do like swap stories for example, I'm open to suggestions"?

>>42525342
Wrapping up the sweet treats for later, we stow them in our bag.
'That may be something I'm equipped to handle, but it may also be the most dangerous place for me right now. A speaker would definitely be presiding over things, and blessing the area.'
Biting our lip in contemplation, our ears flick nervously with the din of the crowded streets.
"Not the most romantic event, but it could be a fulfilling way to pass the time. Seeing as Iiro has food, and we've some time, could we make a brief stop at the camp?"
We blush a little, embarrassed to be dragging Hannu and Dawyn back out of town so soon, after setting out to find Smoke and Tanssija.

>>42525450
>>42525453
Wrapping the sweet treats up for later down the line, you stow them away in your bag.
'That may be something I'm equipped to handle, but it may also be the most dangerous place for me right now. A Speaker would definitely be presiding over things, and blessing the area.'
Biting your lip in contemplation, your ears flick nervously at the din of the crowded streets. It feels like things have only gotten busier in the short time you spent in the store.
"Not the most romantic event, but it could be a fulfilling way to pass the time. Seeing as Iiro has food, and we have some time, could we make a brief stop at the camp? Before that, does anyone want to volunteer to clean up the graves or does someone have another idea?"
"I'm fine with going back to camp really quick." Smoke nods.
"Same." Tanssija agrees.
"If there is time I wouldn't mind cleaning some grave stones." Hannu nods.
"Yep!" Dawyn adds.

What do you do?

>>42525783
Be surprised that we didn't except Hannu and Dawyn to want to get their hooves dirty. What made them okay with doing manual labor at a cemetery is there something there they're trying to find?

>>42525783
Nodding in response to the group's general cheer, we set off back to camp, feeling a bit nervous already.
'This would be a decent chance to tell her, wouldn't it? It's something I should do before taking the splash. And Armas getting involved in manual labor may be a poor idea.'
Looking through the crowd for a moment, we try to take in what we can off all the ponies, scanning for outliers to focus as a way to distract ourself.
'Dawyn will have questions if she sees me slipping into a tent to "help Iiro eat," though I could say it's something to do with Armas... another half truth though.'
The thought makes our heart feel heavier. At least with us working our way away from the crowd, there is one less thing to worry about as we start feeling like we can truly breathe again.

>>42525783
"It sounds like we're all in agreement then."
>>42525860
Seconding! Just found out this is continuing, and need to warm back up. Part of the reason why I'm writing this hypothetical, now that I think about it. I do have to wonder just how to approach this. I could be over thinking things, but wouldn't telling her before the ceremony lead to Dawyn questioning our motives about Radonitsa? We were pretty excited for the event. I can picture her imagining us raising the dead around the crowd of ponies, telling each of them to slaughter the living one by one to full our army of the damned! But I think I may have played too much Fire Emblem Echoes. Lots of undead and necromancy in that game. I've became too addicted to the series! It's my 3rd game I've played in a row!

I'm glad to see you back, Pluto. Don't worry about disappearing. Life does get in the way at times, and it's okay to take a long rest. If things change, and you don't feel like this is something you want to do anymore, I'll understand. Lifestyles change.

>>42525942
Good to see another regular!
I think she might be unsettled, but i don't think she'll immediately think of us coordinating a conspiracy. I've got an idea, but I'm not settled on it: we appeal to emotions, making ourself less of a threat by being vulnerable. We open up with how we felt immediately following Tanssija's kidnapping, the panic and determination. Our lack of fear in the face of death... and the new fear we felt when we woke up. The recent revelations about our origin (mom and the skeleton). Our terror in confronting the Quyish(?) and seeing her throat slashed. Our silly belief that she would be safer if she didn't know, didn't have to worry.
On Fire Emblem, I've got Fates, but I've got too much on the go to start it up. Played some of the first one on a whim and the style was very compelling.

Gotta pass out so, Night, Pluto!

Stopping for the night.
Have a good night or day!

>>42525942
Thanks, and it is nice to see another anon here. Now that I am writing again it feels nice. I will keep going.

>>42526039
A little soap opera-y, but could work. I do like the angle of us becoming vulnerable. We did mention our reaction to the changeling alcohol being related to what we wanted to talk about, though starting off with that might be a little too strong. Then again, starting off with something she witnessed first-hoof (first-claw?) might relate better. Seeing how angry we got, then the breakdown after could set the mood on how we "want to be better than those who took my home."
We don't know if the dream is related to us perse, even if there's evidence saying otherwise. We can't be a complete damsel, that isn't who Dwayne fell in love with. We could talk about our dreams with our hippogryph friend, which would relate better to the lighter side of necromancy (assuming she would know their origins, which would be likely due to being a studious mare.)
I don't think she'll bring up our origins since she already knows we're adopted, and soon will know the family we grew up with were necromancers.

>>42526365
Need to review the changeling alcohol stuff, as it's fuzzy.
Might be interesting to bring up Jaaja. Bringing up a fellow coastal hybrid species might hit home for her, and illustrate how Necromancy is both normal for us, and not intrinsically evil.
We will probably have to explain that we have two Books of the Grave.

>>42525823
>>42525860
>>42525942
"It sounds like we are in agreement then."
With that you all set off back towards camp, though you can't help but feel nervous already as you move through the crowd.
'This would be a somewhat decent time to tell her, wouldn't it? It is something I should do before taking the splash. And Armas getting involved in manual labor may be a poor idea.'
You start to look through the crowd for a few moments, taking in what you can of all the ponies. Most of the crowd are Unicorns who are a good mix of rural and urban. It takes a few moments to see any outliers, but you are eventually able to pick out some Earth Ponies in the crowd, a couple of Pegasi, and even a small group of Cyes that tower over everyone. This all helps a bit as a distraction.
'Dawyn will have questions if she sees me slipping into a tent to help Iiro eat, though I could say it's something to do with Armas... which will be another half truth.'
The thought just makes your heart feel heavier. At least with you working your way through the crowd, there is one less thing to worry about as you start to feel like you can truly breathe again.
As you all pick your way through the crowd it slowly gets thinner and thinner as you get closer to the edge of town, eventually thinning out enough that all of you could walk normally without having to squeeze past someone. By the time you all return to camp the crowd is completely gone, just all of you, the surrounding nature, and the camp standing exactly how you left it.

What do you do?

>>42527980
Taking a breath now that we're away from the crowd completely, we scan the camp for any souls that might overhear, as well as Copper specifically.
'My stress may inhibit Armas' enjoyment of his treat, but he needs the morale boost now rather than later.'
Pretending to consider our options for a moment, we approach our tent and look over at the Peryton Spirit, holding the flap open for him.
"Iiro. Could we speak for a moment? About Armas."

>>42528057
Taking a deep breath now that you are completely away from the crowd, you scan the camp for any souls that might overhear things. There are no souls within earshot, and no Copper either.
'My stress may inhibit Armas' enjoyment of the treat, but he needs the morale boost now rather than later.'
Simply pretending to consider the options available for a moment, you approach your tent and look over at the Peryton Spirit, holding the flap open for him.
"Iiro, could we speak for a moment? About Amras."
"Uh, sure."
He trots over to the open flap and carefully ducks underneath it. With no one questioning things you duck under the flap as well and sit near Armas. Setting his bag down, he looks over at you and sits down as well.

What do you do?

>>42528419
Check that no one is peeking before whispering to Armas.
"This isn't dignified as I had hoped, but trying to find a room felt more, questionable. Do you feel up for joining us in going to the grave? You should probably have your treat before it goes cold, if so."
We offer a hoof to him, allowing ourself to relax as we look at him expectantly.

Sorry, juggling stuff.

>>42528419
We close the tent flaps and look around with our soul sight. Even if they're our friends, this is something that should be private.
"Would you like to talk, or eat first? Perhaps we can do both if that's what you want."
We extend a hoof for him to take, or take over.
I don't know if he's needs to possess us to eat or not, but giving him the option. Possession is an option to speak privately as well. Also, just realized we could have asked Dawyn to cook the fish.

>>42528567
Seconding!
Completely blanked on the fish

>>42528555
>>42528567
>>42528571
With no one peeking you begin to whisper to Armas.
"This isn't as dignified as I had hoped, but trying to find a room felt more, questionable," You tell him, "Do you feel up for joining us in going to the cemetery?"
"Maybe, though I should probably eat first."
You nod in agreement.
"Would you like to talk, or eat first? Perhaps we can do both if that is what you want."
"I should be able to do both."
Extending a hoof out for him, you watch his own hoof reach out to touch yours before his form dissipates into you. You let out a breath through your mouth as a sudden cold overtakes your entire body, almost like a chilly fall morning in a way. You watch your hoof twist a bit as Armas gets a feel for things where it then opens up the bag and pulls out the treat Armas got: a roll of bread covered in bits of powdered sugar and a bunch of brown bits between the folds. The roll gets lifted up and you take a bit of it, the taste of sugar and cinnamon filling your mouth.
"Korvapuusti," Armas' voice echoes in your head, "I saw some from the window of the store and I was surprised that they had it... Brings back memories."

What do you do?

>>42528984
We savor the flavor of melty sugars and buttery bread coat every bit of our tongue, accidentally taking over to close our eyes and lift our head, enjoying the flavor.
'They're heavenly. I'm going to enjoy it as much as you are.'
After our moment of bliss, we speak up again.
'You feel warmer than before. Last time felt like I was surrounded by ice. Now it feels like a dip in cool water.'
Brain is elsewhere at the moment.

>>42528984
We savor the sugary treat, licking our lips subconsciously. It's hard not to indulge it more, but we try to let Armas lead
'I can see why... You can hear this, correct? And taste the Korvapuusti? I've interacted with a Spirit or two before, but much of this is as new to me as it is to you.'

>>42529084
Seconding!
Bit tied up playing No Man's Sky with a friend, unexpectedly

>>42529084
>>42529102
The savor the melty sugars and buttery bread as it coats every bit of your tongue, licking your lips and closing your eyes as you enjoy the taste. Afterwards, you try to let him lead once again.
'They're heavenly... You can hear this, correct? And taste the Korvapuusti? I've interacted with a Spirit or two before, but much of this is as new to me as it is to you.'
'Yeah, I can.'
'Cool. You feel warmer than before. Last time felt like I was surrounded by ice. Now it feels like a dip in cool water.'
'Hmm, maybe it changes when you get possessed frequently,' He guesses, 'I'm not well versed in Necromancy though.'
Taking control once again, he raises the snack up and take another bite with you.
'These were my favorite snack when I was alive. Liked them enough that my fiancé would make them for me sometimes.'

What do you do?

>>42529360
'My body might be becoming accustomed to the presence of your soul. Not a bad thing, I don't believe, but not too common. Most necromancers would probably maintain a firm aversion to possession... Was she a professional baker, or was it more of a passionate hobby? Could you tell me a bit about her?'
Sitting idly and allowing Armas to puppeteer our body isn't strenuous, though it is a little awkward, lacking an individual to look at as we "talk" to Armas, while also holding a sweet we can't eat. Getting up for a moment, we instead lay down on our side, a position that's a little more relaxing.

Stopping for the night.
Have a good night or day!

>>42529628
Night, Pluto!

>>42529360
'It's most likely from becoming a true spirit, and yielding no malevolence. There isn't much research on possession itself; it's relatively straight forward, and most necromancers only care about resisting it. It's rare for someone to willingly accept a spirit inside them.'
We were about to go on a tangent about a spirit's temperature is slightly based on mood, but quickly remembered that isn't what we're here for.
'Can you close your eyes- my eyes- and imagine her? I should be able to see any thoughts you're willing to share.'
Once he closes our eyes, we close our mind's eye and focus on his soul's memories he's sharing with us.

>>42529418
>>42529977
'My body might be becoming accustomed to the presence of your soul, or it is likely from becoming a true Spirit, and yielding no malevolence. There isn't much research on possession itself; it's relatively straight forward, and most Necromancers only care about resisting it rather than anything else. Either way, not a bad thing.'
You are about to go on a tangent about Spirits, but remember that isn't what you are here for and return to the topic at hoof.
'Was she a professional baker, or was it more of a passionate hobby?'
'It was a hobby more than anything else,' He says, 'It was something she enjoyed though.'
As he speaks you just listen, though it is a bit awkward for you as you lack an individual to look at as you "talk" with Armas, coupled by a sweet that you can't technically eat. You take control for a moment to lay down on your side, a position that is more comfortable for you considering things.
'Could you tell me a bit about her? Also, could you close your eyes- my eyes- and imagine her? I should be able to see any thoughts you're willing to share.'

Cont.

>>42531877
After a few seconds your eyes close, allowing you to open up your mind's eye and focus on his memories. For several moments there is nothing but blackness until a shape begins to form. Slowly, it takes on the shape and color of a Deer. When it finishes you see a Deer in front of you, her form a bit blurry like you are standing just a little too far away, but you could still make out a lot of her features: a lithe and graceful body covered in grayish-black fur with her back being covered in dark brown fur instead. A pair of long, slender ears stand on top of her head and beautiful pink colored eyes look at you, on her legs there are a series of lines that wrap around each of her legs like vines growing up a stump, being the same color as her eyes. It takes you a moment to realize she is a Vitrung Deer, comparable to a Unicorn among the Deer.
'Her name is Marjatta. Like me she studied magic, though she wasn't very well versed in magic like I studied. She studied gems and their use in magic. She was brilliant in that field, she understood it inside and out even if she understand normal magic very well.'
The apparition of Marjatta changes, her left forehoof raising up as a blue gem forms and floats above her hoof in a pink colored aura. Armas continues after this.
'We met when I first started studying and from then on we became very close. She was just a wonderful doe: sweet, loving, loved fashion... I can't tell you how many dresses she had.'
Her form changes again, this time showing her wearing a beautiful, flowing, red dress and striking a little pose.
'Always wore her emotions on her sleeves and wanted to listen to me when I was having a bad day, and every time she would always have the same emotion as me...'
As Armas continues his voice slowly gets more and more pained, Marjatta's form also getting a little more blurry. Amras continues, the love in his voice now replaced by sadness.
'I... I just hope my death didn't hurt her too hard.'

What do you do?

>>42531881
Taking control of a foreleg, we hold it across our chest to try and hug ourself a bit, feeling tears well up, though we're not sure if they're ours or Armas'.
'Grief is proof of the existence of love. You miss her, just as she must've missed you... I'd, offer to help you find her, body or soul, but we don't know what life she lead after you parted, or if her soul still lingers in the Paavola. The afterlife and soul cycle of Deer is a little stranger than I recall reading about. A doe like her though, perhaps Hannu may be able to find some record of her? Could you tell me a little of how she used gems?'
We try holding onto the mental image of Marjatta, picturing her with a comforting smile as best we can. It's better than letting ourself speculate on what ifs and happy ending that might give him false hope.
'She seems like a lovely doe, in every sense. I'm sorry your story was cut short.'

>>42531881
Taking control, we place our hoof on our heart to comfort both him and ourself.
'She's very beautiful. Your love for each other is undeniable too. I would have loved to have met her myself, though, you would probably stop my advances towards her.' We say, half-jokingly, trying to lighten up the mood.
'I can't pretend to know how you feel, but I lost someone I would consider a father to me.'
We open up our soul to show him our master.
'Not the best looker, I know. Aside from a few servants, he was the only living person I knew. He raised me from a filly to the mare I am today. Losing him... I thought I would be alone in the world, but eventually I found people who can accept me and be there for me when I'm at my best and my worst.'
'While I can't fill in the gaps of your past, it sounds like her research is something Aln Lenora still uses today. When you get the chance, ask Hannu about his sword. It's enchanted with electrical Runes. Perhaps there's some history about Marjatta he would know about as well.'

>>42531947
>>42532084
Taking control of a foreleg, you place your hoof on your heart to comfort both him and yourself, feeling tears welling up but being unable to tell if they're yours or Armas'.
'She's very beautiful. Your love for each other is undeniable too. I would have loved to have met her myself, though, you would probably stop my advances towards her.' You say, half-jokingly.
'Hey, she was already taken.' He manages to half-joke back.
'Grief is proof of the existence of love. You miss her, just as she must've missed you... I'd, offer to help you find her, body or soul, but we don't know what life she lead after you parted, or if her soul still lingers in the Paavola. The afterlife and soul cycle of Deer is a little stranger than I recall reading about. A doe like her though, perhaps Hannu may be able to find some record of her?'
'With all the souls in the Paavola it would be impossible to find even if it is there,' He sniffs, 'A record or something is all that I can hope for right now. Just... something to show that she lived after me.'
'I can't pretend to know how you feel, but I lost someone I would consider a father to me.'
You open your soul up to show him Master.
'Not the best looker, I know. Aside from a few servants, he was the only living person I knew. He raised me from a filly to the mare I am today. Losing him... I thought I would be alone in the world, but eventually I found people who can accept me and be there for me when I'm at my best and my worst.'
'He's a good person to have raised you. And I know finding people to be there for you is good as well.'

Cont.

>>42532564
You try to hold onto the mental image of Marjatta, being able to reform her a bit with a comforting smile. Better than letting yourself speculate on what ifs and happy endings that would give him false hope.
'She seems like a lovely doe, in every sense. I'm sorry your story was cut short.'
'She is, and you don't need to be sorry for it. You weren't the one that caused... whatever to happen to me.'
'While I can't fill in the gaps of your past, it sounds like her research is something Alln Lenora still uses today. When you get the chance, ask Hannu about his sword. It is enchanted with electrical runes. Could you tell me a little of how she used gems?'
'She... had a lot of different research on the topic that she was doing. The main one though was...'
He stops, the sadness and melancholy still hanging over him but it is not the reason for him to stop. He was instead thinking.
'You know how gems can store magic in them, right?'
You nod. You have heard of this before and you have seen Master use them, though not very frequently.
'Her main research was seeing if gems could store entire spells. That you can cast it, store it in a gem, and then use the gem to cast the stored spell for later use. She worked on that research for as long as I knew her, for years. She tried so many different gems in that time as well, but last time I spoke with her about it she was trying Haxlsite and feeling really hopeful about it, that some of the early tests with it were promising.'

What do you do?

>>42532566
'Haxlsite... Something solid to look into then. There is a chance she discovered something foundational to the modern use of gems in magic.'
Armas can probably sense our curiosity, to learn more about the magic from his time, and a branch of magic we're unfamiliar with, but it feels a little rude to pry farther now. Not to mention the gooey roll slowly making a mess of our hoof, and the others waiting outside.
'Did you two have other friends, family?'

>>42532566
'Haxlsite... I can't say I'm too familiar with it, though gems are hardly used in Necromancy. It'll be something to ask Coper about when we see him. I'm quite interested in the research myself. Storing a spell for later use then releasing it whenever needed is quite the accomplishment.'
'We pause for a moment, before remembering something.
'Would it look a little something like this?'
We imagine the fire rune trap guarding The Book of the Grave in Mikko's room.

Night, Pluto!

>>42532656
>Mikko's room
It was in the library, not his room, but otherwise correct. He had an imp guarding his incriminating stuff.

>>42532975
A small detail, but we had to steal his key to gain access to it. Thus the library was in his room.
Also, a shadow demon was what was guarding his diary. The 'imp' was guarding the book of curses in the former magistrate's room.

Stopping for the night.
Have a good night or day!
I was playing Silksong today. Six years worth the wait.

bump

>>42533037
Damn. Clearly I need to go reread some stuff, because I've got some wires crossed.

>>42533105
Picked up Silksong, haven't had the free time to play it yet. Heard good things.

>>42534683
Before I forget again, I don't know if you were the anon, but it's good to have a refresher:
When we tried the anger changeling alcohol, it brought up the Saraksa army that killed our master and destroyed our home. After that, we excused ourselves, we cried, like ugly crying. Dwayne came to comfort us as we weep.
We didn't tell her what we experienced, but she was there to help us get it all out.

>>42532610
>>42532656
'Haxlsite... Can't say I'm too familiar with it, but it is something solid to look into. It'll be something to ask Copper about when we see him. I'm quite interested in the research myself. Storing a spell for later use then before releasing it whenever needed is quite the accomplishment.'
Armas could probably sense your curiosity, to learn more about magic from his time, and a branch of it that you're unfamiliar with, but it feels a little rude to pry about it right now. Not to mention the gooey roll slowly making a mess of your hoof, and the others waiting outside. Still, you were curious about one thing.
'Would it look a little something like this?'
You imagine the fire rune trap guarding The Book of the Grave in Mikko's room. Armas is silent for a few moments.
'...It looks a bit like some of the runes she was using for her studying, but it is not exactly similar.'
'I see. Did you two have other friends, family?'
'I didn't talk with my parents too much, we weren't on great terms exactly. Marjatta's dad was a good buck though, we saw him quite often,' He explains, 'For friends we had quite a few. I was still really close to my fawnhood friend, he went into the same magic study as me so Marjatta and I would see him often. He... was the last person I saw before whatever happened.'

What do you do?

>>42535250
'Could you tell me a bit about him?'

Been trying to come up with more for a while, but brain is completely blank.

>>42535555
'Could you tell me a bit about him?' You ask.
'He was an interesting buck, rather friendly and liked the study magic much like myself,' He starts, 'I remember it being the study of spells in general though, nothing too big. Anyway, he also had a bit of a fiery temper and was more extroverted than me, he would always drag me to some social gathering if he could. Bit of a womanizer as well, liked does a lot.'
He falls silent for a few moments.
'Still, we were friends since we met each other when we were little. Always had my back when something came up. He liked magic though I was a bit surprised when he decided he wanted to study magic as well.'

What do you do?

>>42535748
The temptation to pry more is there, urging us to try and piece together everything we can Armas's death, but it still feels too raw. Not to mention, we're interrupting his enjoyment of his snack.
'Sounds like he was a dependable friend. When you're feeling up for it, perhaps we should make you an autobiography. Perhaps not to publish, but to have your history, and the memory of your love ones preserved.'

>>42535831
The temptation to pry is still there, urging you to try and piece together everything you can about Armas' death, but it feels too raw. Not to mention, you're interrupting his enjoyment of his snack.
'Sounds like he was a dependable friend. When you're feeling up for it, perhaps we should make you an autobiography. Perhaps not to publish, but to have your history, and the memory of your love ones preserved.'
'The autobiography of a ghost,' He chuckles, 'I... I would like that. To keep just a bit of them around.'
He takes another bite of the roll, the sugary treat going down your throat once again.
'...Thanks again for letting me talk.'

What do you do?

>>42535748
'perhaps he was feeling left behind. Being friends with two magic scholars doesn't leave much room for extraverted activities. Maybe it was a way to keep the bond he shared with you two.'
>>42535831
>perhaps we should make you an autobiography. Perhaps not to publish, but to have your history, and the memory of your love ones preserved.'
You mean like a journal?

>>42536295
'Glad I could give you the opportunity, and sorry I didn't give you more of an outlet sooner. After I tell Dawyn, I wouldn't be opposed to letting you lounge in my body if it would make you feel more grounded. It's difficult to truly relax like this, but I could get used to some of it.'

>>42536334
>You mean like a journal?
Effectively yes, but still with the intent of preservation and being potentially read, rather than a place to store his thoughts.

>>42536295
'It's no trouble at all. Any time you have something on your mind, I'll lend an ear, or a body, whichever you need more.'
'... Since you're here, do you mind if we do what we talked about? Can you look into my soul for anyone named 'Marlula'? Or this mare?'
We think of the image of the red unicorn.

>>42536334
>>42536361
>>42536429
'It's no trouble at all, and sorry I didn't give you more of an outlet sooner. Any time you have something on your mind, I'll lend you an ear, or a body, whichever you need more. After I tell Dawyn, I wouldn't be opposed to letting you lounge in my body.'
'Thank you, I'll keep it in mind.'
'...Since you're here, do you mind if we do what we talked about? Can you look into my soul for anyone named 'Marlula'? Or this mare?'
You think of the image of the red Unicorn for him, which he takes a moment to study.
'Hmm, a moment.'
He then goes silent and for a minute or two he remains silent. Eventually, his voice returns in your head.
'If you mean Merula I can find bits of it,' He tells you, 'The mare as well, though both are very fleeting and stop after a certain point. I... haven't studied souls very much, but both seem to be from quite early in your soul's life.'

What do you do?

>>42536873
'Ah, yes, Merula. That's who I meant...'
We drift off, realizing the implication that what we saw in our dream could be fact.
'I think the mare might be my mom, and my birth name is Merula... I don't think I want to dredge the memories quite yet, as fleeting as they are, but I have to know, is there any signs they may have been tampered with? Like a loose stand, or one that has been snipped?'
I imagine people will want to see what snippets of memories we have, but I don't think doing it so soon is wise given we're about to pour our soul out to Dawyn. That being said, it'll give us something else to pray for during the ceremony, if we assume she's dead.
Also, I couldn't really think about how Luscinia would feel besides conflicted knowing we have/had a mother. I kinda wrote it a bit dismissively.
Also, also, I have it in my head that Master may have tampered with our memories at some point in our childhood. It's been a theory I had for a while now.

Night, Pluto!

9

>>42536873
>>42536993(me)
>'I think the mare might be my mom, and my birth name is Merula...
Change to:
'Morena showed me this memory for a reason. Whatever for will make itself clear eventually. In any case, I at least know who I saw... Might be my mom.

>>42536993
>>42538287
Can't make a post yet, and might be busy, but Seconding these.

>>42536993
>>42538287
>>42538317
'Ah, yes, Merula. That's who I meant...'
You kinda drift off, realizing the implication that what you saw in your dream could be true.
'Morena showed me this memory for a reason. Whatever for will make itself clear eventually. In any case, I at least know who I saw... might be my mom,' You speculate, 'I don't think I want to dredge the memories quite yet, as fleeting as they are, but I have to know. If there any signs they may have been tampered with? Like a loose strand, or one that has been snipped?'
'Uuuh... I don't know what constitutes as clear signs of tampering on a soul,' He admits, 'However, everything I see relating to both looks almost like... frayed rope. I don't know if that is natural or not.'

What do you do?

>>42539594
'Frayed. So not a clean, precise cut. It seems that if it was taken intentionally, whomever did it didn't have the tools or skills to do it with anything other than brute force. On the other hoof, fraying is indicative of trauma. Which is unsurprising given what I observed.'
Mentally locking that information away for later, we feel too anxious to keel sitting as we had been, getting up and laying down differently.
'I may ask you for help finding other frayed strands in future: I need to know what I've lost, and ensure nothing else has been taken without my knowledge.'

>>42539594
We ponder about this for a moment before nodding.
'It is. As you mentioned, the memory is fleeting. Things you don't remember or use often fade with time, 'forgetting' in other words. A memory can also be corrupted by outside forces, like drinking too much, or receiving a concussion.'
As we say this, we get an idea.
'...I'll need to do some research, but I think I can restore the memory of your death. However, only if you want to. Take some time to think about it.'
We wince and close our eye, remembering our own death.
'Speaking from experience, it's not a pleasant thing to remember.'
At work. A little rushed.

10

Didn't realize Pluto was back. As usual whenever a quest thread of theirs pops back up, desperately need to catch up.
Too busy dying in Silksong too. Game is harder than HK.

>>42540819
Good to have another regular, and good luck on both parts.
Probably a mix of conflicting muscle memory and harder design. Also, just got to a certain part and decided that was enough for today.

Sorry, got very distracted today.
Have a good night or day!

>>42540819
Yeah, definitely harder but I'm still having a good time with it. Main gripe is getting used to the new pogoing.

>>42541326
Morning, Pluto!

>>42539669
>>42539766
You ponder this for a few moments before nodding.
'So not a clean, precise cut. It seems that if it was taken intentionally, whomever did it didn't have the tools or skills to do it without anything other than brute force. On the other hoof, fraying is indicative of trauma. Which is unsurprising given what I observed,' You explain, '...As you mentioned, the memory is fleeting. Things you don't remember or use often fade with time. A memory can also be corrupted by outside forces, like drinking too much, or receiving a concussion.'
You shift your position a bit, laying down slightly differently as you get an idea.
'I'll need to do some research, but I think I can restore the memory of your death. However, only if you want to. Take some time to think about it.'
You then wince and close your eyes, remembering your own death in the process.
'Speaking from experience, it is not a pleasant thing to remember.
'I... I would need to think about it.' He replies.
'I may also ask you for help finding other frayed strands in the future: I need to know what I've lost, and ensure nothing else has been taken without my knowledge.'
'I can do that, but from what I saw it seemed limited to your very early memories rather than anything else.'

What do you do?

>>42544113
Nodding in acknowledgement, we lay there and clear our mind as best we can, trying to give him a chance to finish his roll in peace.

>>42544113
' That sounds about right. Not everyone can remember their early foal-hood.'
We imagine us with a big smile between Kost and Master, both holding a forehoof, Master scowling about us touching him, and Kost indifferent, mostly because he can't make expressions. A sad smile crosses our own lips.
'It's always just been the three of us growing up, so my memories of others aren't going to be very strong.'
We take in a deep breath, clearing our mind.
'Thank you, Armas. Take as much time as you need.'

>>42544152
>>42544514
'That sounds about right. Not everyone can remember their early foalhood.'
You nod in acknowledgement before imagining yourself with a big smile between Kost and Master, both holding a forehoof, Master scowling about you having him do this, and Kost indifferent to the whole thing, mostly because he can't make expressions. A sad smile crosses your lips.
'It has always just been the three of us growing up, so my memories of others aren't going to be very strong.'
'Yeah, I can see that.'
You take a deep breath, clearing you rmind.
'Thank you, Armas. Take as much time as you need.'
He doesn't respond, but goes back to eating the roll. It takes a few minutes, but the last of it disappears into your throat and a minute later the spirit of Armas floats out of you, the cold receding as he does.
"Thank you... again."

What do you do?

>>42544648
'Any-'
"Any time."
Pulling out our pocket mirror, we double check that our makeup hasn't become smudged, and there is no evidence of us eating the roll. Once we're certain everything is fine, we get up and walk over to the entrance, holding open the flap so that Armas can walk out, before poking out head out.
"Hannu, Dawyn, could we speak for a moment?"

>>42544648
We shiver as he exits our body, still not accustomed to being possessed.
"Of course, Armas. You're my friend."
We hug the spirit. In part because he needs one. In part because we felt his anguish first-hoof. And I'm some part for ourself, for Master, Kost, and the mother we never knew.
"Wether you're a buck or a raven, you should join us for the ceremony. It'll be the time to pray and morn those we've lost."
Assuming there's more to today.
>We imagine us with a big smile between Kost and Master
The phrase "as a filly" was meant to be there. Oops.

>>42544871
>>42545061
'Any-'
"Any time. You're my friend."
You reach over and hug the spirit, though it is much more like wrapping your forelegs around him cause he is a Spirit. Still, you do so because he needs one, you felt his anguish first hoof, and a bit for yourself, Master, Kost, and the mother you never got to know.
"Whether you're a buck or a raven, you should join us for the ceremony. It'll be the time to pray and mourn those we've lost."
"I can do it as Iiro," He nods, "It would probably be strange to have me just disappear."
You nod and pull out your mirror, double checking that your makeup hasn't become smudged and there is no evidence of the eaten roll. With everything appearing fine, you change Armas into Iiro, get up and walk over to the entrance to let him walk out first, before poking your head out and quickly locating Hannu and Dawyn near the firepit.
"Hannu, Dawyn, could we speak for a moment?"
The two of them comply, though Dawyn takes a slightly longer as she finishes saying something to Tanssija before coming over. The two do eventually meet you at the entrance of the tent.
"What's up?" Dawyn asks.

What do you do?

>>42545322
Making eye contact with her, our mouth suddenly goes dry as our nerves begin to show themselves.
"It's... I want to tell you... You see..."
We close our eyes and take a deep breath, taking one of her claws into our hoof.
"I want to tell you who I am. It's why I got so upset in the changeling hive. The thing is, it might change how you see me and our relationship, and if it does, know I'm telling you this because I love you, even if you won't love me back anymore."
"I've lived with hermit wizards. That much is true. I've been with them for as long as I can remember. However, the magic we study isn't seen with having the best intentions."
With a shaky breath, we stare into her eyes and clapping her claws gently into our hooves.
"I am Luscinia Wren... And I lost my home to the Saraksa Military... For the practice of necromancy."

>>42545322
We bite our lip, ears flattening a little as our nerves get to us. Stepping back so that the entrance isn't blocked.
"Would you two come inside? This isnt', something the others can't over hear, it just feels better to discuss somewhat in private."

"... Who I am is a more complicated topic than I ever gave any thought to growing up. One which has been further muddied by certain revelations I'm grappling with. But I've always tried to be honest and earnest. Still, I have neglected to share some things with you, Dawyn."

"I am a fugitive, cast from the only home I've known so that I would survive its destruction. My mentor, no, my Master, deceased, and his servant wandering the wilderness in hiding. My crime? Being raised with a specific magical gift that may well have seen me ripped from my birth family as a foal. A gift feared by many."
Pulling back the edge of our cloak, we bare our cutie mark, not hidden by illusion.
Can't remember if Necromancy/us seeing souls is something specifically birth related or not.

>>42545485
Seconding

>>42545577
>Being raised with a specific magical gift that may well have seen me ripped from my birth family as a foal. A gift feared by many."
I'm not sure if this is the right thing to throw in. It'll make her believe we had no say in our choices, as of we were a child of destiny. That's Rune's thing! The gift isn't selective, it's given when you devote yourself to Morena.

>>42545763
>we had no say in our choices
I mean, up to a point we effectively didn't. What is a foal raised in isolation, with repressed memories, going to do aside from listen to her elders? And I know Morena's Blessing is a thing, but from what I'd gathered, there is an aspect of 'you must be born under X sign to be a Necromancer', otherwise anyone could learn Necromancy/Dark magic.
>I'm not sure if this is the right thing to throw in
This point I don't disagree with though, as I wrote it quite clunky.

>>42545792
>otherwise anyone could learn Necromancy/Dark magic.
Well, yes. Armas and Master made that clear, the only thing that's stoping people from abusing it is Morena's blessing. You can practice Necromancy, but will have no control over your undead. (Master said this) And Necromancy was just another field of magic. (Armas said this) You don't need to be born under a blood moon or whatever, unless my lack of DnD knowledge is what's causing the confusion.
Also, The book of the Grave mentions while Dark Magic and Necromancy have some overlap, they're different magics.

>>42545792
>>42545875
Yeah, there isn't really any constellation or something preventing people from Necromancy. Morena is really the only gatekeeper and I believe I remember saying there are ways to sidestep her but it isn't recommended in one of the early threads of the quest. Without the blessing you can still practice Necromancy, just not as well which includes controlling undead

>>42545485
>>42545577
Making eye contact with her, your mouth suddenly goes dry and your ears flatten as your nerves get to you. Taking a step back so the entrance isn't blocked.
"Would you two come inside? This isn't... something the others can't overhear, it just feels better to discuss somewhat in private."
"A-Alright."
Hannu and then Dawyn step in, the two of them sitting down as you close the flaps and turn to them.
"This is about what you wanted to tell me earlier?" Dawyn asks.
You nod.
"It's... I want to tell you... You see..."
You close your eyes and take a deep breath, taking one of her claws into your hoof.
"...Who I am is a more complicated topic than I ever gave any thought to growing up. One which has been further muddled by certain revelations I'm grappling with. It's why I got so upset in the Changeling hive. The thing is, it might change how you see me and our relationship, and if it does, know I'm telling you this because I love you, even if you won't love me back anymore."

Cont.

>>42546000
"O-Okay," She stammers, worry filling her soul though she continues to listen.
"I've lived with hermit wizards. That much is true. I've been with them for as long as I can remember. However, I have neglected to share some things with you, Dawyn," You breathe, "I am a fugitive, cast from the only home I've known so that I would survive its destruction, all because the magic I studied with them isn't seen with having the best intentions."
"What do you mean..." She asks nervously.
You take in a shaky breath, staring into her eyes and clapping her claws gently into your hooves.
"I am Luscinia Wren... And I lost my home to the Saraksa military... for the practice of Necromancy."
"H-huh... N-Necro-"
Her eyes widen and she begins to stammer at this hits her, a mix of shock and disbelief filling her. Moving to your side a bit, you pull back the edge of your cloak and show her your cutie mark, not hidden by any illusion. As she looks at this her eyes widen further and her jaw falls open a bit, shock completely overtaking any disbelief she had.. Her claw grips your hoof tightly as he looks over at Hannu, likely expecting a similar shock to her but only seeing the buck sitting there nervously. It doesn't take long for her to start piecing things together a bit.
"D-Did you know this... the whole t-time?"
Hannu just wordlessly nods.
She slowly turns back to you, confusion now joining with her shock as she continues.
"A-And you- This w-whole time?"
You nod as well. At that, Dawyn slowly removes her claw from your hoof, looking back at Hannu again.
"D-Do the others know?"
"Smoke and Tanssija do." He replies.
Dawyn's confusion and shock grows at this, turning her head to instead stare at one of the walls of the tent. As a few moments of silence pass Hannu takes the chance to speak.
"It... It was a lot for me as well, Dawyn, when she first shared that with me. I can tell you that she is still a good mare, Smoke trusts her, and my sister has been traveling with her for a while. She saved me sister and... she helped me throughout that."
After saying this he looks over at you, letting you speak if you want. As you look at Dawyn though you see a bit of blue start to fill her soul: sadness.

What do you do?

>>42546016
Our heart sinks seeing her so distraught. We want to take it all back. We want to rewind time like a clock and forget this talk ever happened. We want to cut this memory away from her soul and pretend we said nothing...
But it needs to be said, and we need to tell her everything.
"...I didn't mean to keep this from you for so long, Dawyn. It's never an easy topic to bring up. Smoke found out on his own, and Tanssija, well, when I found out she was cursed to become sensitive to magic, I had to say something to help her. As for Hannu, he's a king."
We look up to him.
"If I didn't tell you myself and you had discovered who I was, would you have send troops after me? To rescue your sister from a rogue Necromancer?"
"I want to use this magic to better the lives of others. To extract powerful curses placed on people, to die crossing a border and come back to life to rescue a friend, her brother, and their kingdom. To cure people infected with Dark Sickness, and to help any soul who needs helped."

If Dawyn asked about Armas/Iiro:
"... He's a spirit, well, he turned into one today by his own merits. He was a wandering soul inside the Paavola who passed away a century and a half ago. Souls can possess illusions with ease, and he's been posing as my familiar."
"Yes, the buck and the raven are one in the same."
A little unsure about the middle. It's a little too preachy, but sums up our accomplishments so far.

Bump

>>42546016
"It was wrong of me to withhold this information for any length of time, but would you have thought of my as anything other than a monster if you'd known the moment we'd met? A day? A week? I thought..."
We shake our head sadly.
"I didn't think. A part of me assumed you might be safer in ignorance. That if and when our obligations might separate us, you wouldn't have to worry about me as much. For Smoke and Tanssija, adventuring could see them expire, and I have the means to heal the recently deceased. No puppet strings attached. There is more to the story, but I'll leave that to Tanssija."

"I want to protect and heal those I care for, Dawyn. I am careless about it at times, both in my action and inaction. But..."
We lay before Dawyn.
"Dawyn Crisrinn. I, Luscinia Wren, am sorry. For the deception and falsehoods I've spread to sustain it. The fault rests squarely with me."
We dip our head.
Not confident on my post, in a rush

>>42546094
Seconding

>>42546016
>>42546094(me)
>Century and a half
Should be Melena and a half.

>>42547727
This is solid!

>>42546094
>>42547727
Your heart sinks seeing her so distraught. You want to take it back, rewind time like a clock and forget this talk ever happened, cut this memory away from her soul and pretend you said nothing at all...
But it needs to be said, and you need to tell her everything.
"It was wrong of me to withhold this information for any length of time, but would you have thought of me as anything other than a monster if you'd known the moment we'd met? A day? A week? I thought..."
You shake your head sadly as she continues to look away.
"I didn't think. A part of me assumed you might be safer in ignorance. That if and when our obligations might separate us, you wouldn't have to worry about me as much. Smoke found out on his own, and Tanssija, well, when I found out she was cursed to become sensitive to magic, I had to say something to help her. As for Hannu, he's a king."
You look over at him.
"If I didn't tell you myself and you had discovered who I was, would you have sent troops after me? To rescue your sister from a rogue Necromancer?"
"If it was before everything, yes, cause I would want my sister to be safe," He admits a bit nervously, "If it was after... maybe a small group? I would mostly have a lot of questions in that regard though."
"I want to use this magic to better the lives of others. To extract powerful curses placed on people, to die crossing a border and come back to life to rescue a friend, her brother, and their kingdom. To cure people with Dark Sickness. For Smoke and Tanssija, adventuring could see them expire, and I have the means to heal the recently deceased. No puppet strings attached," You explain, "I want to protect and heal those I care for, Dawyn. I am careless about it at times, both in my action and inaction. But..."
You lay down before Dawyn, getting her to once again look at you.
"Dawyn Crisrinn. I, Luscinia Wren, am sorry. For the deception and falsehoods I've spread to sustain it. The fault rests squarely on me."
You drip your head at her, expecting her to say something though nothing comes. You eventually raise your head to find her look down at you. The shock, confusion, and sadness is still there, evident on both her soul and expression. In both you begin to see a pain expression bubble up as her mouth opens and closes a few times. She eventually looks at the wall of the tent, away from you, and finally gets something out though it is barely above a whisper.
"...I could've found a wanted poster, or we could've been stopped by guards and... what then?"
She sniffs and then speaks a little louder, still looking away. She places a claw over her heart.
"Sil- Luscinia, I... I never... I j-just-"
Her free claw comes up to wipe her eyes, resting against her head after as she sits there in silence for what feels like an eternity.
"I think I.... I just need some space right now..." She finally says.

What do you do?

>>42549231
"I understand."
We can't help the feeling that our words are hollow, or that a part of us has been scooped out as we raise and slip out of the tent. Blinking back tears, we wipe our face and inspect the skull bauble on our foreleg, its hollow eyes staring back mockingly.
(If/When Hannu follows us out)
Lifting his chin, we whisper in his ear.
"Stay. Support her. Please. Don't justify my actions, just... be nearby if she needs someone."
Not wanting to detract from the festivities of the others, we pick a direction at random and wander off.

Open to alternative actions. Luscinia strikes me as too pragmatic to wander back to Pallas' temple to cry to the gods, much less be in a crowd right now, though I could see her going to the graveyard to find peace. Can't imagine her wanting to stay and talk though, to her own detriment.

>>42549331
"I understand."
Dawyn silently gets up and pushes through the flaps, disappearing as the flaps close once again. As she leaves you can't help but feel that your words are hollow, or that a part of you has been scooped out as you rise and slip out of the tent, watching Dawyn's tail as she disappears into some bushes. Blinking back tears, you wipe your head and inspect the skull bauble on your foreleg, its hollow eyes staring back at you almost mockingly.
You hear the tent flaps open again as Hannu comes out, stopping by your side. Before he can get a word in you lift his chin and whisper into his ear.
"Stay. Support her. Please. Don't justify my actions, just... be nearby if she needs someone."
Pointing to where Dawyn went, he acquiesces and nods, giving you a brief hug before slowly moving in the direction Dawyn went.
Seeing Smoke and Tanssija and not wanting to detract from their festivities, you pick a random direction and wander away from camp. Smoke looks up to go and say something, but Tanssija stops him as you wander by. For a few minutes you wander in this state, not really caring or aware of where you are going, at least until you register cobblestone underneath you and realize that you are in the outskirts of Shibashikha.

What do you do?

>>42549652
Feeling a bit numb, we turn our neck until our joints pop, turning the other way to tiredly scan the horizon for souls. The town center feels too crowded and unappealing even at this distance, harassing the bookstore owner on our own in this state seems foolhardy, which leaves cleaning the graveyard. Careful manual labor, exactly what we need to keep our mind free of thought.
'Morena give me strength.'

>>42549652
We sit down and stare into space, allowing our eyes do its thing and let tears trickle down our face.
Dealt with an unending chatter box! Fucking wouldn't let me go or stay quiet for at least 5 minutes to let me write. I had more to write, but forgot about it. Thank FUCK we have badders, or else I would have to listen to them drone on and on about nothings!

>>42549652
I've calmed down a bit, so let's give this another try, assuming I have time.
We look up at the sky to get a rough estimate on how much time had passed.
'I've wandered pretty far. No point in turning back either... I shouldn't have let Hannu go after her... Perhaps it was the wrong time... We were all having fun, but now...'
Tears begin to cascade down our face.
'I ruined it. That's not what this day is suppose to be about.'
Downhearted and hating everything, only one word comes bubbles up to the surface. A word we've never used for ourself.
"Fuck!"

>>42549718
>>42549881
>>42549938
Feeling numb, you turn your neck until your joints pop, turning the other way to tiredly scan the horizon for souls, which there is a few of though none are very near. You then look up at the sky, guessing that it is near dinner time from where the sun is.
'I've wandered pretty far. No point in turning back either... I shouldn't have let Hannu go after her... Perhaps it was the wrong time... We were all having fun, but now...'
Tears start to cascade down your face, being as a slight trickle.
'I ruined it. That's not what this day is suppose to be about.'
The tears start coming faster. Downhearted and hating everything, only one single word bubbles up to the surface. A word that you have never used for yourself.
"Fuck!"
You then sit down on the cold cobblestone road and let the tears flow freely down your cheeks. After a few minutes the tears stop flowing as you lift a hoof up to wipe away their remains. You couldn't just keep sitting in the middle of the road, but the town center feels too crowded and just unappealing even at the distance you're from it, harassing the bookstore owner on your own in your state feels foolhardy, which leaves the graveyard.
Careful manual labor, exactly what you need to keep your mind free of thought.
'Morena give me strength.'

Cont.

>>42550429
You get up and start trotting, having to ask for directions but eventually making your way there. The graveyard is near the temple to Kallisto, the Unicorn goddess of travel, which both sit on the opposite outskirts of town and on one of the few hills in town as well. Pallas and Midas don't deal with the dead, so the followers of Kallisto have taken it upon themselves to tend the graveyard in town. Passing by her temple on the way up to the graveyard, you give it a look and find it to be interesting to look at. Most of the temple is exposed to the outdoors with no walls or ceilings to shield it, beautifully decorated with bushes and trees that are both native and foreign to the area, separated by limestone paths that have been cleaned to a shine and meticulously maintained despite it being outdoors, all leading to various different shrines that dot the grounds. To the very sides there are a few small buildings which appeared to be places where traveling Ponies could rest for a while.
Going past the temple you soon arrive at the graveyard which seems to be just as well maintained as the temple that it is a minute trot from. An iron fence with small limestone pillars occasionally placed mark the perimeter of the graveyard. The graveyard itself seems to contain a section of the surrounding forest within itself complete with large trees and the usual ferns and bushes that you have grown used to, gravestones dotting the whole area around the plant life. You immediately see about five Ponies within the graveyard tending to it, three of them looking like volunteers while the remaining two you identify as Speakers of Kallisto, who are usually easily spotted by their short tan vestments, wooden lining they wear around their legs, and sandals around their hooves. The two priests are currently going around placing bowls of burning incense sticks at various graves, a Unicorn stallion easily placing multiple down with his magic while a Pegasus mare zips around in flight to put down as many as she could. As you arrive at the entrance the Pegasus Speaker notices you and, after placing the bowl that she is carry down, zips over and hovers over you.
"Happy Radonitsa," She greets you cheerfully, "If you are here to wander we are still getting the graveyard ready, though if you come back in... an hour everything should be ready!"

What do you do?

>>42550443
State she came here volunteerly to help with the clean up in the graveyard.

>>42550443
Still in our own daze, it took us a bit to register her words, but eventually reply.
"Actually, I was wondering if I can help with anything... Just... Anything to keep me busy, please."

>>42550443
"Happy Radonitsa."
Even we cringe a little at how dead the words sound coming out. Closing our eyes and taking a breath, we try again, sounding more lively this time.
"If you've need of extra hooves, I have need of a distraction. Otherwise, I might contend myself with watching your flock tend to the headstones."

>>42550465
>>42550469
>>42550477
Still in your own daze, it takes you a bit to register her words, but you eventually respond.
"Happy Radonitsa."
You greet back momentarily cringing at how dead the words sound like coming out. She looks at you a little perplexed as you close your eyes and take a breath, trying again and sounding more lively this time.
"Actually, I was wondering if I can help with anything... Just... Anything to keep me busy, please," You tell her, "Otherwise, I might contend myself with watching your flock tend to the headstones."
"Oh, a volunteer! Come with me then."
Still in a hover, she leads you into the graveyard a bit and a short way in. Until the two of you get to a large tombstone sitting next to a big oak tree. Near the tree is several wooden buckets filled with water and some rags. She finally lands and takes both a bucket and rag in her hooves.
"Right now we're having the volunteers clean the gravestones in the graveyard. The last Speakers didn't care for the graves, sadly..." She explains, muttering the last part before speaking a bit louder again, "There are quite a few dirty gravestones, so all you need to do is dip your rag in the water and wipe it down until it looks clean. We don't have any soap for it, so just try your best and if the water in your bucket gets dirty there is a spring at the back of the cemetery that you can use to refill it."
She turns and holds both items out for you.
"Think you got it?"

What do you do?

>>42550550
"Seem simple enough I believe I can handle it". Taking the rag and bucket of water in our hooves
"Is there something I should be careful with the gravestones like watch out for animals lingering around and how did the stones got dirty in the first place"?

10

8

>>42550550
"Yes, I believe so."
Our usually stoic expression changes into one with genuine gratitude.
"Thank you. Would it be okay to use my own soap?" Assuming we have our bag.
Once she leaves, we look up at the large grave and read what it says.
'You've must have been important to receive such a large grave. I'll make sure your resting place receives the care it also deserves.'
We get to work.

>>42550550
"I believe I do. This is exactly what I needed right now. Is there anywhere specific to dump the dirtied water to avoid making the cemetery muddy?"

>>42550574
>>42552664
>>42552927
"I believe I can handle it," You nod, your stoic expression changing into one with genuine gratitude as you take the rag and bucket of water, "This is exactly what I needed right now. Is there anywhere specific to dump the dirtied water to avoid making the cemetery muddy?"
"Just outside the cemetery is alright."
"Is there anything I should be careful with the gravestones like watch for animals lingering around, and how did the stones get dirty in the first place?"
"If there are some animals just try to shoo them away, should just be squirrels and birds," She says, "For the stones, just years of being outside in the weather and the last Speakers not taking good care of them."
"Would it be fine to use my own soap?"
"Go ahead!"
With that, she flies off. Once she leaves you look up at the large grave and read the name on it.
"Here lies Sunshine
She who sacrificed her own life to save the lives of many others"
'You must've been important to receive such a large grave. I'll make sure your resting place receives the care it also deserves.'
You begin the process of cleaning this large tombstone, using your soap to help clean it which makes the process faster. Having done with somewhat regularly at Master's tower also helps and you soon get one side of the tombstone completely clean of any dirt or grime. Though this also causes the water in the bucket to become extremely dirty.
Remembering what you were told, you go outside of the entrance to the graveyard to dump the water and then head back in to the spring at the back. It takes you a minute, but you do eventually find a small spring of crystal blue water, fed by a nearby rocky outcropping that dribbles water into the spring.
You start to trot over to the spring, but as you reach it you spot something out the corner your eye that gives you pause: what appears to be a small section of the graveyard. Normally, another section wouldn't get your attention, but why this one did is because of how overgrown it is. Both trees and bushes have been allowed to grow unimpeded in this area, so much so that the one gravestone you can see in that section is half buried by a tree root that has knocked it over and grown over it.

What do you do?

>>42553588
Glancing around to see if anyone is watching us, or has noticed the dilapidated gravestones, we make our way over to inspect them.

>>42553588
'What a terrible sight. Why would such a grave, any grave be left in such a state?'
Investigate

>>42553630
>>42553683
Glancing about to see if anyone is watching you, and finding no eyes on you, you make your way over to inspect the area.
'What a terrible sight. Why would such a grave, any grave be left in such a state?'
Reaching the edge of this section you could truly see how dense the underbrush has become, even with the amount of trees standing in the area. You begin to push through, heading towards the half buried gravestone you had spotted with it being one of the only landmarks you saw. As you approach it you start to see that isn't the only gravestone in the section
There is a lot of them in the area. Very few of them are standing, most have been toppled and half buried under dirt and leaves, and sadly some of the gravestones have cracked completely, and a few of them have cracked so much that they have become piles of rocks rather than gravestones. As for the rest of the gravestones, you notice that all of them are old, their faces having chipped or cracked a bit in some areas.
Taking in the sight, you don't stop until you almost trip over the half buried gravestone that you spotted before entering. Looking down at it, you can see there is writing on it, but it is hard to make out with it being somewhat underneath a tree root.

What do you do?

>>42553902
'I need to watch where I'm going, these graves are neglected enough as is.'
On a whim, we decide to investigate further: digging into the soil with our bare hooves, we uncover the grave as carefully as we can, giving the root a few testing nudges. Wiping away as much dirt and detritus from the face of the stone as we can, we take a closer look.
(Assuming we can reach it, but can't read it) Taking a blank page from our journal and some charcoal, we take a rubbing of the grave's text.

>>42553958
'I need to watch where I'm going, these graves are neglected enough as is.'
On a bit of a whim, you decide to investigate further: using a hoof to dig into the soil around the grave and root to uncover it as best as you can. Once enough soil is moved you give the root a few testing nudges, being able to move it out of the way just a bit. With that, you start to wipe away as much dirt and detritus from the face of the stone, fully uncovering it.
To your surprise, there isn't a name or date on the grave. What is written on it looks like a poem that is in the language the Griffons use, which you don't have much experience with.
"Guðir, ég kalla til þín
Gefðu mér líf og styrk
Og ef kraftur minn bregst
Gefðu mér viljastyrk
Ef vilji minn bregst
Gefðu mér ljós og von
Og ef von mín dvínar
Gefðu mér dauða og frið"

What do you do?

>>42554366
'A griffonian epitaph for a nameless soul. Hopefully what's written here is meaningful. I wouldn't mind a translation.'
We pull out a piece of paper and charcoal to make a rubbing of the epitaph and carefully stow it in our bag. We then start cleaning the tombstone, clearing the dirt and moss in our practiced rhythm. We then clear away some of the debris that sounded it before planting it into the ground.

>>42554366
'I don't see any names or dates. I will have to get this translated though. I wonder if my Griffon self would know how to translate it? Unlikely, I don't know much about Earth Pony culture.'

>>42554517
Seconding!
A little busy

>>42554517
>>42554536
'A Griffonian epitaph for a nameless soul with no dates. Hopefully what's written here is meaningful. I will have to get this translated though... Maybe I could ask my Griffon self. Unlikely, I don't know much about Earth Pony culture.'
You take out a piece of paper and some charcoal to make a rubbing of the epitaph and store it away in your bag. You then start cleaning the tombstone, clearing the dirt and moss in your now practiced rhythm. Given how long it has been there it takes some time, but you clear it away and, after getting some of the debris in the area out, plant it back into the ground.
With that, the gravestone was standing proudly once again. It has a few chips on it, but besides that it is now clean, readable, and standing up once again as it should.

What do you do?

>>42554716
We smile at our work. Our pain from earlier begins to ebb away as we return to our roots.
'I'm sure they won't mind if I spend some more time here. These graves deserve just as much care as those in the main yard.'
We continue to clean up the grave site, cleaning whatever tombstones that can be placed up right, even if they're missing a few chunks, we do what we can to restore whatever dignity they have left.

>>42554806
Seconding!
Not much to add for the moment, and need to pass out earlier than usual.

Night, Pluto!

Stopping for the night.
Have a good night or day!
Good news about employment, I now have a more consistent job, got finally called and offered it. I will have to move for it in a few weeks, though it is still in the state I'm in and won't change much besides my posting schedule when it does start.

>>42555060
That's fantastic news! Way to go!

>>42555060
Fuck yeah, glad to hear!

10

>>42555060
Congrats! Hope the future move goes good as well!

>>42555072
>>42555730
>>42557181
Thank you, and it should. I'm just really nervous about the move and the prospect of living somewhere else, but I think once I get there and get a few shifts under my belt I will be good. Guess this is what happens when you live in one city your entire life.

>>42554806
You find yourself smiling at your work. The pain from earlier beginning to ebb away as you return to your roots once more.
'I'm sure they wouldn't mind if I spend some more time here. These graves deserve just as much care as those in the main yard.'
So you continue your work to clean up this area, cleaning whatever tombstones that can be placed upright, even if they are missing a few chucks or cracking a bit, you still do what you can to restore whatever dignity they have left.
The work takes a while, considering the state of the section and of the gravestones themselves. You do find most of the graves do have names on them, most of them having died around one hundred to two hundred years ago, some have epitaphs likes the Griffon one, and you found one that was just completely blank: no dates, names, or even an epitaph, just a blank gravestone. You still clean that one though and put it back upright.
After cleaning that one you step out to get some more water and as you do you see the Pegasus Speaker nearby. She quickly notices you coming out of the area and flies over to you.
"Oh, you don't need to clean that area. Still, thank you for doing that," She tells you, "The section is sadly the most neglected part of the graveyard."

What do you do?

>>42557572
"It's because of who was interred here, isn't it."
We guess plainly, brushing a lock of our mane aside.
"Are there any records of who they were or have they been lost to time as well?"

>>42557850
"It's because of who was interred here, isn't it."
You guess plainly, brushing a lock of your mane aside to see better.
"Are there any records of who they were or have they been lost to time as well?"
"I would have to look, but I think there would be a few records," She says before adding sadly, "And yeah, it is because of who are interred there. It is one of the oldest sections of the graveyard and was the place where people who didn't have anyone to remember them, didn't want to remember them, or were just found on the outskirts of town and couldn't be identified by anyone."
She looks over at the section with a sad look in her eyes.
"I think it is rather shameful. There are plans to restore it, but with how it is right now its going to take some logistics."

What do you do?

>>42557572
"May I ask why it's been neglected? It like like the cemetery is older than the main one. Shouldn't it be preserve like any other?"

>>42557990
"That is sad. Everyone deserves a proper resting place, regardless if they'll be remembered or not."
"I would like to continue over there if that's alright. It'll be my Radonitsa contribution.

>>42557992
>>42558044
"That is said. Everyone deserves a proper resting place, regardless if they'll be remembered or not," You agree, "May I ask why it's been neglected? It seems like it is older than the rest of the cemetery. Shouldn't it be preserved like any other?"
"Sadly, there are times where the dead aren't respected, and sadly it happened here for some time." She sighs.
You nod at this and continue.
"I would like to continue over there if that is alright. It'll be my Radonitsa contribution."
"I won't stop you," She smiles, "And I think many would appreciate it, even if it is only the gravestones."
With that she flies off, going back to her work.

What do you do?

>>42558353
Double checking the area for errant souls, we get back to work on cleaning the gravestones and the grounds.
'It would be convenient if I had a mending spell, for these smaller cracks and breaks, but it would take something more to restore a good number of these. They've all got weathering of some form or another.'

>>42558370
Looking around for any errant souls, you go back to cleaning the gravestones and the grounds.
'It would be convenient if I had a mending spell, for these smaller cracks and breaks, but it would take something more to restore a good number of these. They've all got weathering of some form or another.'
You go back to working on the gravestones in this area. It takes a while to do each one, having to clean them thoroughly before setting them back to where they should be, with some taking a bit more time than others on that front. After an hour of work you are finishing up another gravestone, one that is a bit sad among the rest. It is still somewhat intact, but the top of the gravestone had broken off and taken the name of the one buried here with it. The date and epitaph are still readable, the date telling you that this person only lived for six years and the epitaph reading:
"Our little shooting star, we will always miss you."
You get it clean and set back up right before heading towards the exit of this section to replace your water again. As you near you find the Pegasus Speaker waiting for you.
"Hey," She greets you, "Just got word that the Speakers of Midas are leading their procession here so our work is done."

What do you do?

>>42558582
"Do I have to vacate the area entirely? I don't have anything more to do for the moment, and I think I would like to watch them work from a distance for a bit. And thank you, for the distraction."

>>42558582
"So soon?"
"... Alright. I must say, this was very soothing. I appreciate the opportunity to restore some dignity to this resting place."
We bow and return to Sunny's tree to place our bucket up.
'...I should return to my friends, they're probably worried about me...'
Thinking this though reminds us of Dawyn and why we came here.
'...I can't ignore it forever. However she sees me now I should accept regardless of how much it hurts.'
I assume the ceremony is about to begin shortly. I am a little conflicted to leave right when it starts.

Night, Pluto!
Sleep Bump

8

Bump

>>42558623
>>42558806
"So soon?"
"It is time for it." She nods.
"...Alright. I must say, this was very soothing. I appreciate the opportunity to restore some dignity to this resting place," You say with a bow, "Do I have to vacate the area entirely? I don't have anything more to do for the moment, and I think I would like to watch them work from a distance for a bit."
"You don't have to," She shakes her head, "Everyone is meeting here anyway."
With that, you thank her again before heading back over to Sunny's tree to place your bucket.
'...I should return to my friends, they're probably worried about me.'
Thinking about this though reminds you of Dawyn and why you came here.
'...I can't ignore it forever. However she sees me now I should accept regardless of how much it hurts.'
You look towards the entrance of the cemetery. A few Ponies are starting to trickle on, though the procession is likely still a distance away. Though your friends could be coming with the procession.

What do you do?

>>42561277
'It'll be difficult to spot them in the sea of souls. If only I had Armas with me, he would be able to help me locate them.'
The thought of using one of the souls in our collection cross our mind, but they can become unruly without modifying them first.
'... I'll just have to trust they'll join the procession, and meet up with them after.'
>Without modifying them first.
We have a Shishiga Scout, a Babyka, Dukh, and Quyish soul. All of them can cause mischief and/or mayhem of we're not careful. Even if we turn them into spirits, while our will would push them into doing what they want, they'll still have instincts to harm others.

>>42561277
We try to find a spot that will be away from the inevitable crowd (on a hill, if possible), scanning the distant souls for any we recognize.
'... I hope they haven't begun to worry about me. I know how to stay safe.'

>>42561312
>>42561321
You try to get to a spot that is away from the inevitable crowd, which you do find after a few minutes near a tree outside of the cemetery, scanning the distance for any souls you recognize.
'It'll be difficult to spot them in the sea of souls. If only I had Armas with me, he would be able to help me locate them.'
You get the thought of using one of the souls in your collection, but they can be unruly without any modifications.
'...I'll just trust they'll join the procession, and meet up with them after. I do hope they haven't begun to worry about me. I know how to stay safe.'
For several minutes you stay in this spot which gives you a good view overlooking the town. After a while you do begin to see the start of the procession from the hill, led by the Speakers of Midas though they are a bit far to make out any details right now. As they continue though the group of Ponies behind them start to get larger where you then start picking through the sea of souls following them. It takes a while, but you do manage to spot Armas' soul at the edge of it, him being a Spirit making it easier to spot him. You also see Smoke's and Tanssija's souls next to him.

What do you do?

>>42561522
We look a little more for Hannu and Dawyn, though when we (presumably) don't find them, we simply approach the group we recognize, not wanting to be excluded from the festivities entirely.

Night, Pluto!

10

Bump

>>42561688
You look a little more for Hannu and Dawyn. Not spotting them among the crowd you decide to approach the group you recognize, not wanting to be excluded from the festivities entirely.
It takes you a few minutes, and passing the front of the procession a bit, but you meet up with the three of them. They spot you pretty quick and when they do Smoke waves his hoof a bit, allowing you to pick them out easier and make your way over.
They don't say anything as you finally arrive, Smoke and Tanssija just give you a kind smile and then three of them make room for you to trot with them.

What do you do?

>>42564325
Slipping in beside them, we manage to greet them with a momentary smile of our own, before our expression becomes its usual neutral, if slightly somber mask.
"I was tending to the graves, there is a section that hadn't been tended to in a long time. Have I missed much? There must've been some announcement from a Speaker or town crier, I assume."

>>42564421
Slipping in besides them, you manage to greet them with a momentary smile of your own, before your expression becomes its usual neutral, if slightly somber mask.
"I was tending to the graves, there is a section that hadn't been tended to in a long time," You explain, "Have I missed much? There must've been some announcement from a Speaker or town crier, I assume."
"Town crier, yeah, gave us a bit of a fright," Smoke admits with a small chuckle, "And you didn't miss much, just some chatting around the fireplace."
He then falls silent, seemingly thinking before continuing.
"I figured you were tending graves. Did it... help somewhat?"

What do you do?

>>42564551
"It was an apt distraction, that kept my attention for some time. But I'm not sure I'm going to be certain of anything until I hear from Dawyn."
We finish by exhaling somewhat shakily.
"Is Hannu still..."

>>42564551
"It did. It was nice to return to my roots for a bit. That cemetery was a sorry sight. There were graves spanning from 200 years ago, consisting of mostly unnamed wonderers to a little six year old. It was nice restoring some dignity to their resting place."
"...I take it Hannu and Dawyn haven't returned? I hate the thought that I have ruined their Radonitsa."

>>42564590
>>42564615
"It did. It was nice to return to my roots for a bit. That cemetery was a sorry sight. There were graves spanning from two hundred years ago, consisting mostly of nameless wanderers to a little six year old. It was nice restoring some dignity to their resting place, but I'm not sure I'm going to be certain of anything until I hear from Dawyn."
You finish by exhaling somewhat shakily.
"...I take it Hannu and Dawyn haven't return. I hate the thought that I have ruined their Radonitsa," You say, "Is he still..."
"Last I looked Dawyn was by the lake and Hannu was with her," He replies, "I asked if they wanted to come, but Dawyn didn't want to and Hannu wanted to stay near her."
He takes a breath and slowly lets it out through his nostrils.
"She just needs some time right now."

What do you do?

>>42565195
Nodding slowly as we look forward over the crowd, we feel a little tired, but too invested to just slip away again.
"I have time. And I know she needs it. I'm just, unusually inpatient."
Our anxiety and sorrow over the whole situation creeps in a little more, so we try distracting ourself again.
"Would it be rude to ask if there is anyone you're celebrating this holiday, Smoke? Beyond your lovely doefriend."

>>42565195
We nod solemnly.
'At least she's in good company. I'll just have to pray on Hannu's behalf. I assume Tanssija will as well.'
I don't recall if Dawyn had lost anyone.

Despite what Smoke said, I think we should see her. Yes, she's still processing that the person she dated was a lie, but it also feels like we're choosing to go to the procession over her. I don't know what's the right move though, it feels like a lose-lose situation.

>>42565294
>>42565655
You nod slowly as you look forward over the crowd, feeling a bit tired, but too invested to just slip away at the moment.
'At least she's in good company. I'll just have to pray on Hannu's behalf. I assume Tanssija will as well.'
"I have time. And I know she needs it. I'm just, unusually impatient." You finally respond.
Your anxiety and sorrow over the whole situation begins to creep in, so you start trying to distract yourself again.
"Would it be rude to ask if there is anyone you're celebrating this holiday, Smoke? Beyond your lovely doefriend."
"I thought about it and I could only really think of my sister," He says, "I don't know if she is... but even if she isn't I would like to celebrate her life."

What do you do?

>>42567947
'There must be some way to scry her, or at least confirm whether she is alive. Perhaps we'll find something at the magic college, if we make it that far north?'
"Wherever she is, I believe she is thinking of her family as well. We will find her."
Resting a hoof on his shoulder for a moment, we turn to Tanssija, to see if she will share as well.

Been a while since we've heard about his sister. Admitted, my thoughts went back to the dullahan greentext about her.

>>42567462
I don't think she'd expect us to mope around and be sad, just because she wants distance. Emotions are complicated. Besides, we're not here to party, we're here to support and be supported in remembering those we've lost, now without both Dawyn and Hannu by our side.

>>42567992
'There must be some way to scry her, or at least confirm whether she is alive. Perhaps we'll find something at the magic college, if we make it that far north?'
"Wherever she is, I believe she is thinking of her family as well. We will find her."
You lift a hoof up and rest it on his shoulder, getting a smile from him as you turn to Tanssija, to see if she will share as well.
"Gonna be my parents and grandma," Tanssija replies, "Feels appropriate."
She then turns back to you.
"What about you?"

What do you do?

>>42568407
"My mentor, his assistant, and my mother. Or, the only mare I can guess..."
Trailing off, we bite our lip, unsure on how to explain the situation that we're uncertain of ourself.
"It's difficult to explain. My foalhood memories are nearly nonexistent. My... Last I heard, Kost isn't gone yet, but I don't know when or if our paths will cross. And, I suppose I've had enough father figures in my life that my biological father's absence isn't as noticed as much as my mother's..."

>>42568407
"My master and Kost, though he's still around, he's still among the dead."
"And Iiro? I may have an idea, but you're the only one who hasn't been asked yet."

Night bump

>>42568429
>>42568524
"My mentor and Kost, though he's still around he is still among the dead. My mother as well. Or, the only mare I can guess..."
You trail off, biting your lip, unsure on how to explain this.
"It is difficult to explain. My foalhood memories are nearly nonexistent. My... Last I heard, Kost isn't gone yet, but I don't know when or if our paths will cross. And, I suppose I've had enough father figures in my life that my biological father's absence isn't as noticed as much as my mother's."
"Those are all good ones though." Tanssija replies.
You turn to Iiro.
"And Iiro? I may have an idea, but you're the only one who hasn't been asked yet."
"I know," He nods, "I think she deserves it, after all this time."
"Everyone deserves to be remembered in some way." Smoke comments.

What do you do?

>>42571114
We keep quiet, seeing as it's up to him on whether he'll share anything about Marjatta, though we try to support the buck in other ways: giving a brief empathic smile without making claims that we know how he feels. Otherwise, we just settle in with the flow of the crowd, passively watching for anyone staring at us out of habit.

>>42571156
"Who is she?" Tanssija asks.
"My fiancé."
He begins to explain to them and as he does you give him a brief, empathetic smile without saying anything. After that, you just settle into the flow of the crowd for the time being.
It takes several minutes, but eventually the Speakers of Midas lead the crowd into the graveyard and stop near the entrance to let everyone gather. As you all find a spot you take a moment to look at the Speakers. Speakers of Midas are extremely easy to spot with their giant white cloaks that cover their bodies that are then delicately painted or splattered in various different paints, in the case of the four Speakers the paint was splattered on all of them. All four of them carried long golden staffs in their magic, two of them topped with a silver chain where where a golden bell hangs from, the other two having wind chimes that hang from nicely woven ropes. The two carrying the bells rung them in a clear, delicate pattern like they were performing a song, while the wind chimes were allowed to be pushed wherever by the wind to add to it. As they finally stop and the crowd gathers in front of them the bells are rung twice more before they carefully set the bottom of the staffs against the ground, allowing the last ring to play fully. The wind chimes are allowed to continue with the gentle breeze
"Ponies of Shibashikha and those that have come from other parts we, the Patron Speakers of Midas, welcome you to this years' Radonitsa," A stallion Speaker, one of the two holding the bells, finally speaks, "We commemorate all who have decided to attend this very special day of the year! As has been told, when The Court was founded by our gods both old and young, that no matter who you are or who you worship in The Court, that you should hold a place for those that have departed, for those that have sadly passed and now serve the Gods in their halls, whether their passing was centuries ago or yesterday. Radonitsa, this holy day, was chosen for this purpose. Losing one close to you is hard, and it always will be, so if you have come on this day to mourn the passing a loved one then do so. In fact, I encourage it if you need to, for none shall judge and will be there for it. But, this day is also for celebration, to celebrate the lives they led and the legacies that they left."
He takes a breath before continuing.
"Whether you are here to mourn or celebrate, I encourage and welcome both, for this is what this day is for. As always, offering bowls are near the entrance and you may spend as long as you wish here. When you are finished the feast is being held at the Temple of Midas. Now, have a good Radonitsa everyone!"
With that, the four of them part, allowing entrance into the graveyard.

What do you do?

>>42572013
Much as we want to place a reassuring hoof on Armas' shoulder, it feels risky with so many ponies around. We do spend a moment just marveling a little over the colorful garb and staffs of the Speakers of Midas. Leaning over, we speak in a hushed tone to the others.
"The back of the graveyard may be less crowded for the moment, which may be the best place for quiet mourning."
We press forward a bit, trying to lead the way, slowing to check out any preparations made by the Speakers.

>>42572189
Much as you would like to place a reassuring hoof on Armas' shoulder, it feels risky with so many Ponies around. You do take a moment to marvel a little over the colorful garb and staffs that the Speakers of Midas have. Leaning over, you speak in a hushed tone to the others.
"The back of the graveyard may be less crowded for the moment, which may be the best place for quiet mourning."
Waiting for a gap in the Ponies moving into the cemetery, you press forward with the others, slowly looking around as you do. Near the entrance on the inside of the cemetery you could see that a table has been set up with a bunch of bowls and offerings on top of it, most Ponies moving to there. The four of you push past the crowd though and start making your way to the back of the cemetery.
It doesn't take very long for the four of you to reach the back, and get close to the overgrown section of the cemetery.
"Well, that is shameful." Tanssija comments at the sight.

What do you do?

Stopping for the night.
Have a good night or day!

>>42572691
Night, Pluto!

>>42572401
I passed out early yesterday and just woke up. A whole nine hour nap.
"It truly is. These graves are of those of the unsung. Travelers of unknown names and origins lie here. Still, they deserve as much of a Radonitsa as any other. When the crowd thins out, I was hoping to give them offerings they've been neglected to receive for so long."
In the mean time, we prepare for our own morning ceremony, whatever that entails. (Assuming there's more to it than praying. I like the idea of us and/or Smoke guiding the deer on what needs to be done.)

Bump

>>42573303
Seconding!
Been busy a lot of yesterday and today, and probably the next few days. Follow up interview Thursday
Hope it's (the nap) just a one off, rather than you being unwell

>>42573303
>>42574038
"It truly is. These graves are of those of the unsung. Travelers of unknown names and origins lie here," You say, "Still, they deserve as much of a Radonitsa as any other. When the crowd thins out, I was hoping to give them offerings they've been neglected to receive for so long."
"Sounds like they need it." Iiro comments.
You begin to prepare for your own mourning ceremony. Usually, it would be in front of their grave though that wasn't always possible. If there isn't a grave the preparations change to an open spot with plenty of space, where you use a hoof or something else to create a small circle or square around yourself. Once that is done you kneel and present your offerings, placing them in front of you in a careful and organized manner, the offerings usually consisting of different plants, resin, and spices with various different meanings and you can mix and match them to get the meaning you want. With the offering present and the shape in place of the circle the mourning or celebration ceremony could begin, which is simply praying.

What do you do?

>>42574487
'I do have those baked goods still, to possibly use as part of the offerings. I wish I could have personalized them a bit more, but I really don't know Master, Kost, or, my mother's food preferences.'
We look over at the others, double checking if any of them need help, or are doing their own thing. We also look towards the table set up near the entrance, just a little wary of braving the crowd to get to the supplies they've so carefully laid out.
'I should've done more to prepare, and help the others as well. This is supposed to be part of my purview.'

Not sure if it's too moody, but Luscinia lamenting her own lack of preparation makes sense, imo.

>>42574487
We look around for a study branch and yank it off of a tree. If none are available, we grab our sword in its scabbard.
"Does everyone have their offerings ready? It can be anything as long as it means something to you and the person you're thinking of."
(Stretching things a little from the instructions, but I'm hoping the ritual isn't as precise as it's written.)

>>42574583
>>42574814
The ritual is a rough estimate.
You look around for a sturdy branch and easily yank it off of a tree.
"Does everyone have their offerings ready? It can be anything as long as it means something to you and the person you're thinking of."
"I believe so." Smoke nods.
"I think so, but I don't know what I am doing." Tanssija replies.
"Here, I can show you." Smoke smiles to her, leading her a ways a bit.
"I don't really have anything." Iiro mutters, mostly to himself.
'I do have those baked goods still, to possibly use as part of the offerings. I wish I could have personalized them a bit more, but I don't really know Master, Kost, or my mother's food preferences.'
Master never really talked about it and you never saw Kost eat. You give a brief glimpse over to Smoke and Tanssija as he begins to show her how to make a circle in the dirt with a hoof, with Iiro remaining nearby watching as you work. You then glance towards the table set up near the entrance, just a little wary of braving the crowd even if it isn't very big at the moment
'I should've done more to prepare, and help the others as well. This is supposed to be part of my purview.'
Studying the table further it does truly not look too crowded at the moment, most chatting with others for the moment. You could slip in and it would hopefully only take a few minutes to get everything you need.

What do you do?

>>42574838
"I believe they have cinnamon sticks, if you need a starting point. You could also inquire about spices used in deer cuisine, if you don't know their names in (drawing a blank). Let's go take a look."
We wander closer to the table to take a look, feeling more comfortable with Iiro nearby.

Sorry for the delay, tied up with stuff

>>42574838
"It looks like the line is dying down. We can get some offerings from the table over there."
We look over to the other two.
"Is there anything you two would like us to grab?"
We turn back to Armas.
"Are you still okay on necromantic energy? Can you still carry things?"
If not, we grab a hoof and recharge him.
Met up with the chatter box again... Got away earlier than last time.

>>42575110
>>42575240
"It looks like the line is dying down. We can get some offerings from the table over there," You tell him, "I believe they have cinnamon sticks, if you need a starting point. You could also inquire about spices used in Deer cuisine, if you don't know their names in Cannorian."
You look over to Smoke and Tanssija.
"Is there anything you two would like us to grab?"
"We're good, we'll grab what we need when we get up there." Smoke tells you.
You then turn back to Armas.
"Are you still okay on Necromantic energy? Can you still carry things?"
"I still feel good about it. I think it should be fine."
You nod and then the two of you make your way up to the line at the table, just in time as well as several Unicorns join soon after. Feeling more comfortable with Armas nearby as you look over the table.
You are very much spoiled for choice when it comes to offerings. There are an assortment of plants, resin, and spices both local and foreign to the area, even some spices from the Desert of Eternal Heat where the Dragons live on Estys. Among the plants and resin, you are able to pick out several that you are familiar with: Peace Lily, Orchid, Dracaena, Rose, and resins like Amber, Frankincense, Myrrh, and Ammoniacum, and for spices you could spot Aloe.

What do you do?

>>42575463
'Aloe for Kost, perhaps. Between the two, he was more the healer and carer at times, and I want to "heal" our connection in a manner of speaking. Amber for my mother. Beautiful, and often holds memories, but those trapped inside are forever out of reach. For Master, Dracaena. For the strength and resilience he tried to impart upon me.'
We stand to the side, making sure that Iiro can get a good look at the selection as well, double checking whether he recognizes any of what is on the table.
"I'm not seeing any prices. Are these free to take?"
We pull what we need from the table before clearing out so others can move in.

>>42575488
Seconding! I like your choices!

>>42575488
>>42575645
'Aloe for Kost, perhaps. Between the two, he was more the healer and carer at times, and I want to "heal" our connection in a manner of speaking. Amber for my mother. Beautiful, and often holds memories, but those trapped inside are forever out of reach. For Master, Dracaena. For the strength and resilience he tried to impart on me.'
As you grab what you need and place it in your offering bowl, you make sure that Iiro can get a good look, keeping an eye on him to see if he can recognize what is on the table.
"I'm not seeing any prices. Are these free to take?"
"I imagine so, it would be weird to charge for these on a holiday like this." Iiro guesses.
Iiro reaches out and starts putting some stuff into his own offering bowl. He mostly takes some cooking spices and some cinnamon sticks, but he does grab a few roses as well. With that, the two of you step to the side to let the other Ponies get what they need.
"I think I the offering I want," Iiro says, "So I just... make the circle you made, right?"

What do you do?

Sleep bump

>>42575810
"Yes, the circle is where you'll place your offerings since we don't have access where she's buried."
We return to the graveyard and let him pick a spot where he would like to make his circle, passing him the branch to do so.
"That looks good. Now you'll kneel and present your offerings to your fiancee in front of/inside the circle and arrange them as you please. Take your time and consider how you want to arrange them. Then once you're ready, you may begin praying."

Bump

>>42576501
Seconding!
Busy for a sec, will try to post

>>42576501
>>42577379
"Yes, the circle is where you'll place your offerings since we don't have access to where she is buried."
The two of you return to your spots, and after finding a good area, pass him the branch you used for your own circle. With a bit of work he manages to make his own circle.
"That looks good. Now you'll kneel and present your offerings to your fiancé in front of the circle and arrange them as you please. Take your time and consider how you want to arrange them. Then once you're ready, you may begin praying."
"Alright," He nods, "So..."
He takes a moment to look over everything he has before carefully taking out each item and arranging it how he wants, placing the roses and cinnamon sticks at the top. He then takes a breath and closes his eyes to start praying.

What do you do?

>>42577796
We watch him pray only for a moment, seeing as this is a deeply personal ritual and not a spectacle to gawk at. Settling back into the circle we made originally, we lay out the Dracaena and one of our baked goods in front of us, placing the leaves first to form a plate of sorts.
'Going forward, if I celebrate again, I should try to bake anything that I offer up. And perhaps get more than three of the same one.'

Do we have to make multiple circles/offerings, or is it intended to all be done at once?

>>42577796
We smile warmly and wordlessly walk down to our own circle as to not interrupt his moment. At our own circle, we kneel down and present our offerings, taking them out one-by-one.
'Aloe for Kost. May we heal our connection and meet again.'
We snap the aloe into three pieces in a triangle pattern, representing his three souls.
'Draceana for you, Master. For giving me my strength and resilience I'll always carry.'
We place the Dracaena next to cost, touching them to represent their own connection and how close we were to them.
'and Amber for you, Mom. Whether you're alive or watching over me, know that I'm thriving.'
We place the amber near the center of the circle, representing we keep her close to our heart.
With the offerings in place, we begin to pray.
Feel free to re-arrange things, or change their meanings. I'm on a time crunch and just copied the meaning on a previous post. Would like to write the prayer as well, but probably won't be able to in time.

>>42577858
>>42577872
You smile warmly as you watch him pray, deciding to trot over to your own circle as his is a deeply personal ritual and not something to gawk at. You settle back in your own circle, kneeling down to present your offerings as you take them out one-by-one.
'Going forward, if I celebrate again, I should try to bake anything that I offer up. And perhaps get more than three of the same one. Anyway, Dracaena for you, Master. For giving me strength and resilience I'll always carry.'
You place the Dracaena leaves down first, using them to form a plate of sort.
'Aloe for Kost. May we heal our connection and meet again.'
You snap these into three pieces and put them on the plate in a triangle pattern, touching both to represent their connection and how close you were to them.
'And Amber for you, Mom. Whether you're alive or watching over me, know that I'm thriving.'
You place the Amber in the center, representing that you keep her close to your heart.
With that, you start to pray, a feeling of calm settling over you for a bit as you begin.

What do you do?

>>42578161
'Morena, Goddess of Necromancy. Thank you again for this lease on life. I know my Master is by your side now, and I hope that he is serving you well. Kost... I know he probably is not yet dead, but he isn't alive either, so I pray that he will be find rest. And, my mother. I don't know much about her, but I hope wherever she is, that she is at peace.'

Sorry, stuff keeps popping up atm.

>>42578161
'Master. Know I'm always grateful for everything you've done. We may have never always seen eye to eye, but I'm happy to have had the opportunity to become your apprentice and grow under your supervision. There's never a day I don't think about you and how much I thank you for making me who I am today.'
Our eyes start to swell remembering all of the good times and bad times. The moments we succeed receive praise, the moments we fail and were told to try again. His endless patients with us whenever we act up or do something against his wishes.
'I miss you, though I know it isn't goodbye. It's just a long detour until we meet again in the afterlife. I'll make you proud, Master. I'll keep my promise to live a long, fulfilling life until we can meet again under Morena's realm and compare notes. Until we meet again, Master. I love you like a daughter ever could.'
We take a moment to collect ourself, wiping away our tears before moving on to Kost.
'Kost. I hope you're doing well. If you can hear this prayer, then please know I'm safe. I've met some friends who know who I am and have accepted me for it. I'm continuing my journey to head north to the college of magic. I hope to see you again, it's been far too long, but please focus on your own safety. I would hate to see you as a pile of ash. Thank you for always being there for me.'
We fondly remember him often standing up to us when we get into trouble with Master. The hugs he returns, us playing with his bones that he reassembles with ease, and the jerky he makes and shares for everyone alive.
'Mom... It's me, Murula, though I go by Luscinia now. I'm sorry haven't talked to you before, I... I didn't know until now. We've never really had the chance to meet properly... You've must have been worried sick when we were separated. Well, just know your daughter is doing well. I've been adopted by the best of magic, and I've been going on a journey with friends. I think you would really like them. I wish you could meet them... If you're alive, or hearing this prayer, I'll find a way to see you again. There's a lot to catch up on.'
Out of any further words, we end our prayer.
'Morena watch over these souls and help find them peace.'

>>42578394
>>42578451
'Master. Know I am always grateful for everything you've done. We may have never always seen eye to eye, but I'm happy to have had the opportunity to become your apprentice and grow under your supervision. There's never a day I don't think about you and how much I thank you for making me who I am today.'
Your eyes start to swell with tears as you remember the good times and bad times. The moments you succeed and receive praise, the moments you fail and were told to try again. His endless patients with you whenever you acted up or did something against his wishes.
'I miss you, though I know it isn't goodbye. It's just a long detour until we meet again in the afterlife. I'll make you proud, Master. I'll keep my promise to live a long, fulfilling life until we can meet again under Morena's realm and compare notes. Until we meet again, Master. I love you like a daughter ever could.'
You spend a moment to collect yourself, wiping away tears that managed to slip through before moving to Kost.
'Kost. I hope you're doing well. If you can hear this prayer, then please know I'm safe. I've met some friends who know who I am and have accepted me for it. I'm continuing my journey to head north to the Lychny College of Magic. I hope to see you again, it's been far too long, but please focus on your own safety. I would hate to see you as a pile of ash. Thank you for always being there for me."
You fondly remember him often standing up for you when you got into trouble with Master. The hugs he gave, you playing with his bones that he could reassemble with no effort, and the jerky he liked to made and share with everyone alive.
'Mom... It's me. Merula, though I go by Luscinia now. I'm sorry I haven't talked to you before, I... I didn't know until now. We've never really had the chance to meet properly... You've must have been worried sick when we were separated. Well, just know your daughter is doing well, I've been adopted by the best of magic, and I've been going on a journey with friends. I think you would really like them. I wish you could meet them... If you're alive, or hearing this prayer, I'll find a way to see you again. There is a lot of catch up on.'
Out of anything further to say, you start ending your prayer.
"Morena, Goddess of Necromancy. Thank you again for this lease on life. I know my Master is by your side now, and I hope that he is serving you well. Kost... I know he probably isn't dead yet, but he isn't alive either, so I pray that he will be able to find rest. And, my mother. I don't know much about her, but I hope wherever she is, that she is at peace.'
You stop it there still kneeling and now just listening to everything going on. Birds and the sounds of distant bugs are the only things you can hear, all the conversation having died down. As you kneel there with eyes still close a cool breeze gently pushes against you. It seems to wrap around you before continuing on and dying. It...
Felt like a hug.

What do you do?

>>42578598
We smile as our tears well up again. Still grieving, but reassured knowing someone has heard our prayer and has replied in kind.
'Thank you everyone for having a role in my life, regardless of how long or short it had been. I'm happy to have been raised by so many... To have been looked after by so many... In life or death, I promise to see you all again. You have my word.'
We open our eyes and look around in our tear-stained vision.
I originally went in a different direction where she felt even more grief, as the hug confirms someone is hearing her prayer and she had a sense of helplessness. But it didn't get very far and didn't sound like our Luscinia.

>>42578692
Seconding!
Just got free of other stuff, but can barely keep my eyes open, much less really process most of what is written. Need to sleep so I can actually process the emotion behind everything.

>>42578598
>>42578692(me)
Forgot to add:
>We open our eyes and look around in our tear-stained vision.
Feeling calmer than we've ever had in years.

Bump

>>42578692
>>42578696
>>42578700
You smile as your tears well up again. Still grieving, but reassured knowing someone has heard your prayer and has replied in kind.
'Thank you everyone for having a role in my life, regardless of how long or short it has been. I'm happy to have been raised by so many... To have been looked after by so many... In life or death, I promise to see you all again. You have my word.'
You then open your eyes and look around in your tear-stained vision, feeling calmber than you've ever had in years. You could see your group still praying, Tanssija and Smoke being next to each other as they do. Iiro is nearby as well still kneeled in prayer. You could see what looked like tears welling up in his eyes.
Looking around further you see most are still praying. A few have finished and were now chatting quietly with friends or family.

What do you do?

>>42580764
'Looks like I finished first. I suppose not everyone has the same opportunity I have to visit their departed. Naturally they would communicate with them longer than I did.'
We look around the graveyard and make a rough estimate on how many offerings it would take to give them something.
'Rosemary and dill for safe travels, and peppermint for protection to the little filly.'
We make our way to the offering table and gather the offerings before heading back and placing them their respective graves, and giving them a short prayer.
'May your soul have peace and protected by your gods.'

>>42580764
Wiping away the tears, we sit and wait quietly, pulling out our journal to sketch the little pile of our offerings while we wait.
'I wish Dawyn and Hannu were here to celebrate.'

>>42580924
>>42580930
Wiping away some of the tears, you sit and wait quietly for now, pulling out your journal to sketch the little pile of your offerings.
'Looks like I finished first. I suppose not everyone has the same opportunity I have to visit their departed. Naturally they would communicate with them longer than I did.'
You look around the graveyard, trying to make a rough estimate of how many offerings it would take to give the neglected ones something. There isn't a lot left on the table, so you would sadly have to choose.
'Rosemary and dill for safe travels, and peppermint for protection to the little filly.'
You make your way to the offering table and gather the bit they have left in what you thought of getting. You then head back and place them on their respective graves, finishing with the filly and giving each a short prayer.
'May your soul have peace and be protected by the gods.'
You then return to the others. As you do you find that Smoke and Iiro have finished. Smoke just waiting for Tanssija to finish while IIro just kinda sat there, staring into the distance a bit.

What do you do?

>>42581230
We trot over to Iiro and stand by his side, letting him have his moment not saying anything.
Nothing comes to mind, but sometimes just being a presence is enough.

>>42581314
You trot over to Iiro and stand by his side for now. Your presence getting him to come back to reality a bit, though he still just silently stares out at the distance after a moment.
For several minutes, the two of you sit there in silence until Tanssija rises up from her prayer. She exchanges a few words with Smoke before the two of them come over, stopping in front of you two.
"You guys said what you wanted?" Tanssija asks as they sit down nearby.

What do you do?

>>42581646
"I did... I think I realized it's never really goodbye. I'll rejoin my Master in the afterlife, I'll meet up with Kost in this life, and my mom, well, whether she's alive or not, I'll find her."
We use minor illusion to show her to everyone.
"I think Morena reminded me of her today so I could include her into my prayers. I don't know much about her, but Armas will help me dredge what little memories I have."

>>42581646
"I have. It was... indescribable feels cliche... uplifting yet a little melancholy. I've also tended to the stones that have no known connections in this life. I hope you got something from this as well."

'I shouldn't press Armas, but I want him to know I am here, if he needs someone...'
Glancing around to see if anyone is paying attention, we reach over and rest a supporting hoof on his shoulder, taking care to not let it sink in.

Was busy most of the day, spent about 4 hours in the car. Nice to catch up though.

>>42581758
Seconding!

Bump

>>42581758
>>42581782
"I have. It was... indescribable which feels cliché... but uplifting yet a little melancholy. I've also tended the stones that have no known connections in life," You say, "I think I realized it's never really goodbye. I'll rejoin my Master in the afterlife, I'll meet up with Kost in this life, and my mom, well, whether she's alive or not, I'll find her."
You use minor illusion to show her to everyone, both Smoke and Tanssija leaning over a bit to get a better look at her.
"I think Morena reminded me of her today so I could include her into my prayers. I don't know much about her, but Armas will help me dredge what little memories I have."
Armas nods a tiny bit next to you. Lifting a hoof up, you reach over and rest it on his shoulder, just being careful to not let it sink into him.
"I believe you will," Tanssija nods, "Doing this made me realize that... I don't think about them very often. I want to try to change that though."
"Same," Smoke agrees, "With everything that has happened I haven't been able to think a lot about her."

What do you do?

>>42583284
"It can be painful to reflect on these things. If you know someone is gone, the grief sticks with you, and it can be tempting to push it down. Same for if their fate is unknown, the uncertainty can be an insidious pain of its own. And focusing on the moment is sometimes necessary to survive but holidays like these do exist for good reason. To remind us of what we once had."

>>42583348
"It can be painful to reflect on these things. If you know someone is gone, the grief sticks with you, and it can be tempting to push it down," You say, "Same for if their fate is unknown, the uncertainty can be an insidious pain of its own. And focusing on the moment is sometimes necessary to survive but holidays like these do exist for good reason. To remind us of what we once had."
Tanssija nods as the four of you fall into a silence for a minute.
"...So what do we want to do now," Tanssija asks, "I wouldn't mind staying here longer, though they did say something about a feast."

What do you do?

>>42583553
We pause and look in the general directions of both our camp and the lake.
"I would propose investigating the bookstore by the lake, to see if that, 'oddity', I saw is malicious or not, but if there is going to be a feast... Do you think we should fetch Dawyn and Hannu? The celebration itself is one thing, but they need food. If we're all feeling up to eating, that is."

>>42583553
"The feast is to strengthen the soul and reminisce after mourning or celebrating. I would like to meet to with Hannu and Dawyn first... It would be unfair to eat without them.

>>42583608
>>42583773
You pause and look in the general direction of both your camp and the lake.
"The feast is to strengthen the soul and reminisce after mourning or celebrating," You explain, "I would propose investigating the bookstore by the lake, to see if that 'oddity' I saw is malicious or not, but if there is going to be a feast... Do you think we should fetch Dawyn and Hannu? The celebration itself is one thing, but they need food. If we're all feeling up for eating, that is."
"We could ask," Smoke says, "I don't know what they would say, but I don't think it is too much of a detour to ask them."

What do you do?

>>42583969
We slowly inhale through our nose, then exhale through our mouth.
"At the very least, they should have a moment to pray if they haven't done so already. Dwayn will be upset with me... Whatever happens, just let her vent, okay? I can take it."
We make our way to the camp.

>>42583999
You very slowly inhale through your nose, then exhale through your mouth.
"At the very least, they should have a moment to pray if they haven't done so already. Dawyn will be upset with me... Whatever happens, just let her vent, okay? I can take it."
"Alright."
The four of you get up and head back to camp, which doesn't take long since the crowds have thinned significantly with Radonitsa starting. You all get back to camp where Smoke then leads you through the brush and over to the lake. After a minute the two of you arrive at a small clearing at the edge of the lake, quickly spotting Hannu and Dawyn near the water. The two of them were near a log that had lodged itself above the water a bit, Hannu choosing to sit on the shore while Dawyn laid on the log. Hannu is the first to see you as he gets up and starts trotting over, making Dawyn glance over before she looks back at the water. It only takes that glance for you to know that she is miserable right now.
"How was it?" Hannu asks carefully.

What do you do?

>>42584141
Seeing Dawyn feels like a dagger in the chest, and it takes a second to stop ourself from looking at her soul. Instead, we focus on Hannu's face.
"I-it was..."
The words don't come, feeling a bit hollow or mocking.
"... sombre, but healing."
It takes some effort not to apologize on the spot, to Hannu as well as Dawyn.
"There is a feast. It, felt in poor taste, not to let you two know. You could go and I could stay, if you would prefer..."

>>42584141
"It was refreshing."
We give him a short hug.
"Thank you. I shouldn't have made you stay, but I greatly appreciate you doing so. If you want to do your own ceremony, there's plenty of time. One of them can guide you to where Tanssija made her praying circle."
"I'm going to speak with Dawyn... It may not be the best idea, but I have to know what's on her mind. Give us some space."
With that, we trot trepidly over to Dawyn, sitting on the log, but leaving enough space for the two of us.
"I know you hate me right now, and you have every right to do so. Say what's on your mind. I won't interrupt you."

>>42584157
>>42584168
Seeing Dawyn feels like a dagger in your chest, and it takes a second to stop yourself from looking at her soul. Instead, you focus on Hannu's face.
"I-It was..."
The words don't come for a moment, feeling a bit hollow or mocking.
"Somber, but a little refreshing."
It takes a lot of effort not to apologize on the spot, to Hannu as well as Dawyn. You stop yourself by giving him a short hug.
"I shouldn't have made you stay, but I greatly appreciate you doing so. If you want to do your own ceremony, there's plenty of time. One of them can guide you to where Tanssija made her praying circle," You tell him, "Or there is a feast. It, felt in poor taste, not to let you know. You could go and I could stay, if you would prefer.."
"Are you sure?" He asks.
You just nod in response. He opens his mouth to say something else, but Smoke stops him by putting a hoof on his shoulder.
"A-Alright," He finally nods, "If you want to join us, you can probably find us easily."
Smoke then proceeds to lead Hannu away, giving a glance at you as he leaves you with Dawyn. You gain the courage to trot trepidly to Dawyn, sitting on the log with her but leaving enough space for both of you. She doesn't look at you as the log creaks under both of your weights.
"...I know you hate me right now, and you have every right to do so. Say what's on your mind. I won't interrupt you."
She is silent, and for a minute she remains silent. Eventually, she lowers her head and opens her mouth to speak.
"Hate... is a very strong word," She sniffs, "I- I just thought I knew what I could about you, and then you finally open up fully to me and it turns out you practice..."
She trails off, her mouth hanging open with the words unable to come out. She eventually closes her mouth and begins again.
"I... I get why you didn't say anything, you can't exactly go around saying that. I-It still puts people in danger and now-"
Her breath hitches and she stops, lifting a claw up to wipe her eyes. With a sniff she finally looks at you, tears beginning to form in her eyes.
"Was some of the mare I love really not true?"

What do you do?

Feels like I could've made her response better, but I've spent thirty minutes staring at it and this is the best that I could make it.

>>42584334
Seeing her like that, we start to tear up as well, though we do our best to hold ourself together, so that her doubt doesn't fester.
"My name, my cutie mark, and the magic I was raised practicing. Those are the only things I've intentionally obfuscated. I have made no conscious attempts to be anyone other than myself. There are things I wasn't able to openly discuss, like my ability to see souls, but nothing of who I am was performative. I'm just, an odd bookish mare that grew up in a tower, and had the adventurer's life thrust upon her. Because of my magic."

Morning, everyone!
>>42584354
Well said! I tried to think of what to say last night, couldn't really put it in any other way.

Bump

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351 KB GIF

first image :)

Nyan

>>42584354
>>42585023
Seeing her like this, you start to tear up as well, though you do your best to hold yourself together so that her doubt doesn't fester.
"My name, my cutie mark, and the magic I was raised practicing. Those are the only things I've intentionally obfuscated. I have made no conscious attempts to be anyone other than myself. There are things I wasn't able to openly discuss, like my ability to see souls, but nothing of who I am was performative. I'm just, an odd bookish mare that grew up in a tower, and had the adventurer's life thrust upon her. Because of my magic."
At her words she just stares at you, eventually looking away and placing a claw on her chest as she looks out at the water.
"E-Even then, it still hurts a little," She sniffs, "I... d-don't really know what to think..."
She stops speaking at this point as she looks at the ground, her tears beginning to flow freely.

What do you do?

>>42586401
We hesitate for a moment as we try to find our words, but when that fails, we walk up to the dragonmare and hug her.
"I can't take back that I hurt you. I can't make you trust me. But, as a start, I can try and answer your questions."

>>42586401
"... Whatever you decide, just know I enjoy our time together, and if you decide to end the relationship, I won't argue. I'll accept whatever you say. That said though, do you have any questions you want to ask me? Everything is out in the open, so I gain nothing by lying to you."
If you're stumped, I think a good question would be "Are you really alive? Is anyone you travel with alive?"

10

>>42587967
Has picked up a bit, yeah.

>>42586526
>>42586570
You hesitate for a moment as you try to find your words, but when that fails you shuffle over to the dragonmare and hug her. She doesn't flinch or tries to remove herself from the hug, she simply lays there and accepts it.
"I can't take back that I hurt you. I can't make you trust me, just know I enjoy our time together, and if you decide to end the relationship, I won't argue. That said though, I can try and answer your questions. Everything is out in the open, so I gain nothing by lying to you."
"...You've really been a Necromancer since the start," She asks with a sniff, "For as long as you can remember?"

What do you do?

>>42588671
"When does someone become a Necromancer? When they first start studying it? When they cast a spell? When they gain their cutie mark?... I have one memory in which I wouldn't consider myself a Necromancer, and I wasn't old enough to speak at the time."

>>42588671
"Raised by one, and raised to become one. My mentor, rather, my Master, took me as his apprentice. Wether to take over his legacy, or become my own Master in my own right... I'll never know."

>>42588746
>>42588796
"When does someone become a Necromancer? When they first start studying it? When they cast a spell? When they gain their cutie mark? I have one memory in which I wouldn't consider myself a Necromancer, and I wasn't old enough to speak at the time."
She opens her mouth at this and instead opts to slowly close it rather than saying anything.
"...Raised by one, and raised to become one. My mentor, rather, my Master, took me as his apprentice. Whether to take over his legacy, or become my own Master... I'll never know."
"There isn't a lot of ways to ask now," She sniffs, "I know sometimes Necromancers can sometimes be dead and still function, but are you alive? Is everyone you travel with alive as well?"
Your ears twitch slightly at this. Necromancers don't become undead themselves until they achieve Lichdom. Which is hard to do, even for a great Necromancer.

What do you do?

>>42588995
"Smoke, Tanssija, Hannu, and Copper are all alive since the day they've been born. I haven't resurrected any of them. I am very much alive myself. I can prove it to you, if you're willing."
We scoot a little closer and extend a hood out to her. If she takes it, we press her claw to our chest.
"Do you feel my heart beat? The warmth I radiate?" We take in a deep breath then exhale. "The breath I take? These are all signs I'm alive."
"... The only one who's dead is Iiro, though his real name is Armas. That's a story in itself, but in short, I found him in wandering the halls of the Paavola and decided to come with me disguised as a raven familiar. He's passed away a millennium and a half ago, and just became a spirit today."

(I had to shorten this up, because I only now had time to write.)

>>42588995
I guess I had time to extend a bit. I think it's fine as is, but I would like to add an additional line.
>"Do you feel my heart beat? The warmth I radiate?" We take in a deep breath then exhale. "The breath I take? These are all signs I'm alive."
"If I was dead or undead, I would be unbreathing, cold to the touch, and my heart wouldn't have any need to function, and of course, I would smell absolutely horrible."
A few typos:
>extend a hood
Extend a hoof
>I found him in wandering the halls of the Paavola
I found his soul attracted to one of my wards I made in the Paavola.

10

>>42589163
Seconding!
This covers things pretty well

>>42589163
>>42590031
"Smoke, Tanssija, Hannu, and Copper are all alive since the day they've been born. I haven't resurrected any of them. I am very much alive myself. I can prove it to you, if you're willing."
She nods slightly. You scoot a bit closer and extend a hoof to her, watching her hesitate for a moment before she slowly takes it. When she does you press it against your chest.
"Do you feel my heartbeat? The warmth I radiate," You ask, taking a deep breath and then exhaling, "The breath I take? These are all signs I'm alive."
She nods as you continue.
"If I was dead or undead, I wouldn't be breathing, colt to the touch, and my heart wouldn't have any need to function, and of course, I would smell absolutely horrible."
"W-What about..."
Sensing what she is about to ask you answer quickly.
"The only one who's dead is Iiro, though his real name is Armas. That's a story in itself, but in short, I found his soul attracted to one of my wards I made in the Paavola and decided to bring him with me disguised as a raven familiar. He's passed away a millennium and a half ago, and just became a spirit today."
"...I-I see," She stammers, not removing her claw from your chest, "H-He hasn't done anything, but he isn't... a malicious spirit, right? He's just a companion?"

What do you do?

>>42592237
You met him as both a raven and a buck. Did you ever feel uneasy around him?"
"Armas is a buck who passed from unfortunate circumstances. If he was any bit malicious, I would have sent him to the afterlife for his gods to judge his soul."
"Armas is his own buck, even more so as a spirit. I wouldn't call him a companion, more of a friend... I should also add that I had no hoof into making him a spirit. He became one on his own."

>>42592329
"You met him both as a raven and a buck. Did you ever feel uneasy around him?"
"No, I didn't."
"Armas is a buck who passed from unfortunate circumstances. If he was any bit malicious, I would have sent him to the afterlife for his gods to judge his soul," You say, "He is his own buck, even more so as a spirit. I wouldn't call him a companion, more of a friend... I should also add that I had no hoof in making him a spirit. He became one on his own."
"That can just happen," Dawyn mutters to herself before speaking louder, "I..."
She quickly shuts her mouth, almost looking hesitant as she thinks over her next question. Eventually, she speaks once more.
"For... Ever since I was little I was told that Necromancers are evil, a-and yet even now you are still so nice," She says, "Have you always been like this?"

What do you do?

>>42593265
"Like what? A pony, with complex emotions and motivations? Not evil? I can't speak for dark magic as a whole, but Necromancy's drawbacks are largely societal and the association with grizzly and unsanitary things. The core of Necromancy is the pursuit of eternal life. Armas is from a time when it wasn't shunned, if you can such a time ever existed. I found it a little hard to believe myself."

"It is worth mentioning that I have the means of storing and manipulating souls without a vessel. I have a few souls, all of creatures and entities which should not be allowed to wander or self revive unchecked. I've only stored one person's soul before, that being Armas himself for a time. I, accidentally flattened his soul during our first hours of interacting."

>>42593265
We let out a little giggle.
"Sorry, you're asking me to judge my own character."
"Like with any magic or weapon, it all depends on who uses it. While it is the sad truth a lot of Necromancers end up becoming megalomaniacs, it isn't what necromancy was made for. Necromancy helps us understand our own mortality, and gives the dead purpose. It's used to prolong life, heal and revive the fatality wounded, give the dead the ability to continue where it left off and help us learn from the past. Then once they're ready to move on, we can guide them to the afterlife."
"These are the real values of Necromancy, not of malice and power, but of healing and guidance. These values are what I always carry with me, Ones that Morena herself wishes how her blessings were used."
We hold a claw in our hoof.
"Those are my intentions, even if it means the world is against me..."
'Even if it means to lose someone I love.'
I feel like I went a little vague or neutral with our intent. If anyone can spice it up, I'm all for it.

>>42593371
I do like the first half, though it does come off a little bit aggressive, though that might just be my interpretation reading it. Regardless, I second it. The other half seems to be out of nowhere, and might undo some of the work we've done. To casually mention we carry malicious souls could lead her to think we do have ulterior motives, even if it's for a good reason.

>>42593431
Felt it better to mention than leave it to be discovered at a later date. First part isn't meant to be hostile, just a bit direct and blunt in the way Luscinia can be. To be fair, I was barely awake when I wrote it, and even less so now.

>>42593265
(I wrote this for fun. It doesn't need to be added if it offsets the mood.)

"... I was a little mischievous growing up. There were a lot of things I couldn't do like dink alcohol or have pets. That didn't stop me from sneaking a bit of wine or raising a few spiders in my closet.
>spiders? Not skeletons?
"A few skeletons, but those weren't pets... They were more for figuring out what to wear that day."
"I remember cussing once. Master had me eat a whole bar of soap and didn't leave until I finished it... I never swore again after that."

>>42593371
>>42593404
"Like what? A pony, with complex emotions and motivations? Not evil?
"K-Kinda, yeah..." She admits with a stammer.
You can't help but giggle slightly at this.
"Sorry, you're asking me to judge my own character," You apologize, "I can't speak for Dark Magic as a whole, but like any magic or weapon it all depends on who uses it. While it is a sad truth a lot of Necromancers end up becoming megalomaniacs and are associated with grizzly and unsanitary things, it isn't what Necromancy was made for entirely. The core of Necromancy is the pursuit of eternal life. Armas is from a time when it wasn't shunned, if you can believe such a time ever existed. Anyway, it also helps to understand our own mortality, and gives the dead purpose. It's used to prolong life, heal and revive the fatally wounded, give the dead the ability to continue where it left off and help us learn from the past. Then once they're ready to move on, we can guide them to the afterlife."
She nods slightly as you continue on.
"There are the real values of Necromancy, not of malice and power, but of healing and guidance. These values are what I always carry with me, ones that Morena herself wishes how her blessings were used."
You take her claw again with a hoof.
"Those are my intentions, even if it means the world is against me..."
'Even if it means to lose someone I love.'
Dawyn spends a few moments thinking on this, her eyes still appearing a bit wet but the tears have stopped and she looks a little better than earlier.
"I... I guess I never really tried to look at it from that perspective," She admits, "Though it is weird to think about. Even where I grew up all the stories I've heard about Necromancers go over ones like Sylvan Sea and Moonshadow."
You nod a bit at this. You have heard of Sylvan Sea before, a Necromancer that terrorized the Sea of Trees and Frozen Shore 250 years ago and created Hippogriffs. Moonshadow as well, though she is much more infamous: she appeared a long time ago, shortly before Holy Cannor came to be and laid waste to a large portion of the former Empire of Cannor, even some of the island of Cannor itself where she achieved Lichdom. She was eventually defeated though it has never been confirmed if she truly died. From what Master said about her many Necromancers almost idolize her now.
"I assume you've heard stories of those two?" She asks.

>>42595218
Of course. They're both icons in Necromancy. Sylvan Sea created Hippogriffs which went on living after his defeat. A whole new race! Something that has never been achieved before! And Moonshadow was one of the few who achieved Lichdom, the most difficult achievement for any necromancer!"
Realizing we're fan girling, we clear our throat.
"Sorry... You do know what those two have in common, and every other necromancer who tried to perform some kind of conquest, right? They were all defeated in the end. Either by the hooves of the brave, or Morena performing divine intervention."
(Want to write more, but at work.)

>>42595426
"Of course. They're both icons in Necromancy. Sylvan Sea created Hippogriffs which went on living after his defeat. A whole new race! Something that has never been achieved before! and Moonshadow was one of the few Necromancers to achieve LIchdom, the most difficult achievement for any Necromancer!"
You stop when you hear her giggle very slightly. You clear your throat and continue.
"Sorry... You do know what those two have in common, and every other Necromancer who tried to perform some kind of conquest, right? They were all defeated in the end. Either by the hooves of the brave, or Morena performing divine intervention."
"So I've heard," She says, "And honestly I wouldn't want that fate to happen to you."
She lets out a sniff and wipes her eyes with a claw. Looking at her, you can see that a lot of the misery she was experiencing before has lifted a bit, and now she is even smiling a tiny bit.

What do you do?

>>42595746
"There are a few differences between me and them. Not that I can avoid being discovered entirely, but in most cases, I have to hope that my character proves the expectations of ponies wrong. The existence of Hippogriffs proves that association with Necromancy isn't an immediate death sentence. I imagine there is some hardships for it, but I want to prove the exception to the 'rule' of Necromancy being evil."
Sorry, family medical stuff. Nothing scary, just a lot of waiting rooms

>>42595746
We smile in kind.
"I appreciate that. My hubris isn't big enough for tyranny, so I don't need to worry about angering the goddess who can literally hold my soul in her hooves. I would like to have a tower of my own some day and toil away practicing magic like my master did, perhaps have an apprentice of my own. I'll just have to be more discreet and have better connections I can count on if I ever get caught. I think I'm doing an alright job with the latter so far."

>>42595938
"There are a few differences between me and them. Not that I can avoid being discovered entirely, but in most cases, I have to hope that my character proves the expectations of ponies wrong. The existence of Hippogriffs proves that association with Necromancy isn't an immediate death sentence. I imagine there is some hardships for it, but I want to prove the exception to the 'rule' of Necromancy being evil."
Dawyn nods and stares out at the water of the lake, remaining silent for several moments.
"Speaking of, Hannu did tell me more about what happened with him. What you did to get Tanssija back."

What do you do?

>>42596114
"And I would do it again."
We close our eye and wince again.
"... With better planning on how to cross. I don't recommend getting shot in the head. Coming back to life with an arrow through your eye isn't the best way to wake up. I was just glad to have enough cognitive function to get it out."
We open our eye back up for her to see.
"It looks like nothing happened though, doesn't it? This is the kind of healing one can expect from Necromancy. The spell I used to heal your neck was also Necromancy, though unfortunately a lot weaker than what a goddess could perform."

>>42596241
Seconding!
Brain is elsewhere and not much I can add in short order.

>>42596241
>>42596263
"And I would do it again."
You declare before closing your eye and wincing.
"...With better planning on how to cross. I don't recommend getting shot in the head. Coming back to life with an arrow through your eye isn't the best way to wake up. I was just glad to have enough cognitive function to get it out."
"Yeah, it doesn't sound pleasant," She agrees, "You got out of there okay at least."
You nod as you open your eye back up for her to see.
"It looks like nothing happened though, doesn't it? This is the kind of healing one can expect from Necromancy. The spell I used to heal your neck was also Necromancy, though unfortunately a lot weaker than what a goddess could perform."
"Still, thank you for that. If you weren't there I... Just, thank you."
She falls silent after this and this silence remains for a good minute that feels like several. You spend it looking out at the lake with her. Once you hear her take a breath you glance back at her, watching her as she starts to speak again.
"I... It is going to take some time for me to get used to things," She begins, "I think I would like to keep going... if you want to."

What do you do?

>>42596411
We smile, getting a little teary eyed.
"You know I want to. I have no secrets from you at this point, and would like to stay by your side... and I won't blame you, if you were to eventually decide that we shouldn't be."

>>42596411
"So no asking for your hoof in marriage?" We ask, in our dry, joking deadpan, before smiling as a wave of relief hits us.
"I do. I really do. And that's okay. Like I said when we started, I'll let you set the place. If I do or say anything that makes you uncomfortable, let me know and I'll stop."
We lean in closer and wrap her in a hug.
"And I promise no more secrets and half-truths. Though I think you already know how important it is to not speak about it in public."
We stay like this for a while, enjoying her warmth and sent, happy to have our other half back with us before letting go to give her a loving kiss.
"One more thing: Copper doesn't know and I don't think he needs to know. He's a good source of income for us, and he would no doubt fire all of us if he knew a fugitive was in his group."
"... Do you have anyone you would like to pray for this Rodatsa? There's a feast going on, but I'm in no rush to eat, and I'll be here for you."

>>42596470
Seconding!

Oh yeah, it is fast today. Haven't seen /mlp/ this fast in a while.

>>42596460
>>42596470
You smile, getting a little teary eyed but still managing to joke a bit.
"So no asking for your hoof in marriage?"
"Little too early for that." She giggles.
"You know I want to. And that's okay. Like I said when we started, I'll let you set the pace. If I do or say anything that makes you uncomfortable, let me know and I'll stop."
You then lean in closer and wrap her in a hug.
"I have no secrets from you at this point, and would like to stay by your side... and I won't blame you, if you were to eventually decide that we shouldn't be. Still, I think you already know how important it is to not speak about it in public."
"I promise I won't say anything about it."
The two of you stay like this for a while, enjoying her warmth and scent, happy to have your other half back with you before letting go and giving her a loving kiss that she returns.
"One more thing: Copper doesn't know and I don't think he needs to know. He's a good source of income for us, and he would no doubt fire all of us if he knew a fugitive was in his group."
"Noted."
"Do you have anyone you would like to pray for this Radonitsa," You ask, "There's a feast going on, but I'm in no rush to eat, and I'll be here for you."
"Hmm..."
She thinks for a few moments before shaking her head.
"I can't really think of anyone, sadly. There are my grandparents I guess, but I never knew them."

What do you do?

>>42598686
"Maybe they deserve to be remembered on principle, and to better relate to your own parents, but I'm sure they would understand you not feeling their lose. Better to do it because you want to, than doing it out of obligation."

>>42598686
"That's alright. This day just as much for celebration as much as it is for mourning."
We hop off of the log and kneel chivalrously before her, making eye contact and raising a hoof for her to take.
"Shall we feast, milady?"
Assuming 4chan censors it, the last word can just be "my sweet?"

>>42598776
"Maybe they deserve to be remembered on principle, and to better relate to your own parents, but I'm sure they would understand you not feeling their loss," You say, "Better to do it because you want to, then doing it out of obligation."
Dawyn nods a little at this and the two of you fall silent again, just enjoying each other's presence for the moment.
"...I know you're not in a rush to eat, but we could still go to the feast." Dawyn points out.

What do you do?

>>42599475
"I'd like that. I'd like that a lot."
Getting closer, we hug the mare.
"... Did, did you want some time to wash your face and get cleaned up? You look lovely, I just find I never feel right after I cry until I've had a chance to wipe down. I typically wear more makeup than you do though..."
'Dear Morena, I need to get better about not putting my hoof in my mouth.'
We think with a blush.

>>42599475
>>42599474(me)
I was just seconds late, but this can still be used.

Sleep Bump

9

>>42599837
>>42599865
"I'd like that. I'd like that a lot."
You shuffle closer and hug the mare.
"...Did, did you want some time to wash your face and get cleaned up? You look lovely, I just find I never feel right after I cry until I've had a chance to wipe down. I typically wear more makeup than you do though..."
'Dear Morena, I need to get better about not putting my hoof in my mouth.'
You think as you begin to blush at her slight smirk.
"I don't wear enough makeup for you," She teases, "I should wash my face, so give me a moment."
Moving a claw down, she begins to splash some water on her face from the lake, rubbing it in a few times until she thinks it is good. Once done, you hop off the log and kneel before her, making eye contact and raising a hoof for her to take.
"Shall we feast, milady?"
"Hmm, some food does sound pretty good right about now."
She takes your hoof with a still wet claw and uses it to hop off of the log. The two of you begin to move through the forest, making your way back to town.
"So, where is the feast?" Dawyn asks.

What do you do?

>>42602025
"I believe it'll be on the offering table near the [adventure god] shrine. Follow me."
We make it to the offering table and use our soul sight to find Armas.

>>42602025
We stumble a little at the question, having not asked it ourself.
"I don't, know. Where the people are gathered, I would imagine. Maybe it will be obvious once we're closer to town."
'I should be able to see a large gather of souls once we're near, and then we should be able to hear them before long.'

>>42602145
>>42602151
You stumble a bit at the question, having not asked yourself.
"I don't, know. I believe it'll be on the offering table near Kallisto's shrine, but it can also be where people are gathered. Maybe it will be obvious once we're closer to town.
'I should be able to see a large gathering of souls once we're near, and then we should be able to hear them before long.'
The two of you continue into town where it doesn't take long for you to see the large gathering that you were thinking of, though it is more towards the opposite side of town and away from the graveyard and Kallisto's shrine. Still, the two of you head that way and begin to hear chatter as you get closer and closer until you finally arrive.
It is being held in the courtyard in front of the Temple to Midas. Being a god of art both the courtyard and temple is decorated extravagantly. The temple is a large A-frame building made out of stone with the side facing the courtyard being made almost entirely out of stained glass depicting different patterns. The courtyard is decorated with meticulously taken care of hedges, flowers, bushes, and plants of different varieties and sculptures dot the courtyard grounds, going from sculptures of Ponies to sculptures of rather... abstract things like a large marble helix that sat in the very middle. Around the courtyard, tables have been set up where Ponies are eating and chatting and there are plenty of tables that are just dedicated to allow Ponies to get what food they want.
It is very packed right now.

What do you do?

>>42602386
"That's a lot of ponies..." We say, tightening our grip on Dawyn and scanning over the crowd.
"It'll be alright. My soul sight can find Armas from the crowd. Spirits are souls manifested into themselves. Once we find them, I'll feel more comfortable."
A little stumped on what to do, but I'm also busy with something right now.

>>42602386
Initially distracted with the various pieces of art, particularly the helix and the shrubbery around it, our mind wanders to the samara (because helicopters aren't a thing and idk what else to call it) seed, and the way it spins through the air. Though we blanch as we finally recognize the number of ponies in and amongst the tables, taking Dawyn's claw to reassure ourself.
"... How about we start at the far end and work our way in?"

>>42602514
Seconding!

>>42602514
>>42602576
Initially distracted with the various pieces of art, particularly the helix and the well cared for shrubbery around it, your mind wanders to your samara seed, and the way that it spins through the air as it falls to the ground. Though you blanch as you finally process the number of Ponies in and around the tables, taking Dawyn's claw to reassure yourself.
"That's a lot of Ponies..." You say as you scan the crowd, "How about we start at the far end and work our way in? My soul sight can find Armas from the crowd. Spirits are souls manifested into themselves. Once we find them, I'll feel more comfortable."
"Got it," She nods, "Just kinda follow me and we'll get through it."
She begins to move in front of you a bit as the two of you start making your way over to the far end, even then bumping into a few Ponies and giving them a quick apology as you go. As you near the far end though you are able to make out Armas' soul near the edge, and as you get closer you are able to see Armas along with Smoke and Tanssija. The three of them are just standing at the edge and looking over the crowd.

What do you do?

>>42602869
Striding closer to Dawyn, we brush up against her and nod towards where they are, just in case she hasn't spotted them yet.
"Over there. They're probably looking for a spot as well."

Brain is blanking, did we leave Hannu behind?

>>42602869
"They're not much further ahead. Keep heading forward."
Once we're close enough, we disable our soul sight and greet them with a friendly wave before giving Dawyn a Kiss on the cheek.
"Thanks for being brave for me." We whisper to Dawyn before addressing everyone else.
"Hello everyone. We're back. Quite the massive crowd, isn't it?"
"Where did Hannu go? Is he still praying?"

>>42603122
Morning everyone

>>42604491
Morning

>>42603045
>>42603122
You stride closer to Dawyn, brushing up against her and nodding towards where they are, getting her to spot them.
"They're not much further ahead. Keep heading forward."
She nods and starts to move towards them. Once you're both close enough, you disable your soul sight and give them a friendly smile before giving Dawyn a kiss on the cheek. You see them smile back at you and at this sign of affection and reconciliation.
"Thanks for being brave for me," You whisper to Dawyn before addressing everyone, "Hello everyone! We're back. Quite the massive crowd, isn't it?"
"Yeah, we kinda have to stay here right now because the crowd is too big," Tanssija nods, "We can barely push past them right now."
"Where did Hannu go? Is he still praying?"
"He decided to brave the crowd to try and find a table," Tanssija explains, "We lost track of him a minute ago."
"I do see the two of you reunited." Smoke smiles.

What do you do?

>>42605149
We nod, initially not wanting to say too much on that, though acknowledging Dawyn is too important to keep quiet.
"And I am quite fortunate for it."
Smiling at Dawyn for a moment, we look across the crowd for Hannu, still not ready to brave it ourself.
'A handsome lone buck braving the bustling ponies in their celebration... If this were a novel, that premise could end a number of ways. He has a large enough presence not to be trampled though.'

>>42605149
We give her a nuzzle.
"That we did, and I'm very happy to have such a wonderful and understanding mare."
"Armas, do you mind flying up and see if Hannu hasn't been trampled? If you can, see if you can update him that we've returned."

>>42605242
>>42605278
You nod and then give Dawyn a nuzzle that she accepts, not wanting to say too much on it, though it is still too important to keep quiet.
"That we did, and I am quite fortunate to have such a wonderful and understanding mare."
You then give her a smile as you lean away, scanning the crowd to try to spot Hannu though there is still so many that it is hard to spot him.
'A handsome lone buck braving the bustling Ponies in their celebration... If this was a novel, that premise could end a number of ways. He has a large enough presence not to be trampled though.'
"Armas, do you mind flying up to see if Hannu hasn't been trampled? If you can, see if you can update him that we've returned."
He nods and flies up a bit, taking a minute to scan the crowd before flying down a bit.
"It looks like he managed to find a table near the entrance. I'll go update him now."
Armas then flies off in the direction of the temple.

What do you do?

>>42605618
"Let's not keep his Majesty waiting."
Using our soul sight to not lose track of Armas, we make our way to the entrance of the temple.
Didn't read the other Anon's post before making mine. It seems we both thought about the possibility of being trampled.

>>42605675
"Let's not keep his majesty waiting."
You begin to make your way to the entrance of the temple with the others, using your soul sight to not lose track of Armas. It isn't an easy task as this requires you to start moving through the crowd somewhat, pushing through various Ponies in a collection that seemed endless.
Eventually though, you near the entrance to the temple and locate Hannu from watching Armas. As you come through Armas lands next to him, showing Hannu near a large empty table and looking a bit exasperated though otherwise fine. Spotting all of you, he gives you all a wave.

What do you do?

>>42606151
We wave back, happy to see our king and make our way to the table.
"Hello again Hannu. You picked a great spot."
We give him a kiss on the cheek before finding a seat and offering one to both buckfriend and marefriend. (Sitting between the two)
"I hope it wasn't too much trouble. I've never seen so many ponies in one place."

>>42606186
Seconding!
Can't think of anything to add for the moment, sadly.

Goodnight bump
[spoiler[Just finished Fire Emblem Echoes! I love the shake up by adding dungeons and villages like a traditional JRPG instead of going from one conflict to the next. It really made me absorb the lore and connect with the characters more thanks to the slower pacing of the game. I defeated the final boss first try with only 4 units dying. There's also a post game as well... I would be excited more if 3 of those units that died weren't all of my Pegasus knights! I might refight the last battle and try to keep my units alive. There are 2 spots where I can revive my units, but they only have 3 uses each and I might need them for the post game. Weighing my options right now, but the final boss isn't too difficult (despite the fact he can one-shot nearly every unit) and it'll give me an excuse to see everyone's ending. [/spoiler]

Morning Bump

>>42606186
>>42606216
You wave back at him, happy to see your king as you make your way to the table.
"Hello again, Hannu. You picked a great spot."
"Thank you," He smiles back, "Just took a while to find it."
You give him a kiss on the cheek before finding a seat and helping both your marefriend and buckfriend into seats as well, making sure that you're between both of them.
"I hope it wasn't too much trouble. I've never seen so many Ponies in one place."
"Been a while for me," He nods, "The main issue I had were Ponies trying to take the table from me, though now that it is full I don't think we'll have that issue."
"Doubt it," Smoke agrees, "And holidays like this attract crowds, so this is kinda normal."

What do you do?

>>42608174
"Well it is certainly a shock to my sensibilities, even having had the Paavola skew my understanding of scale. I feel like I've seen a lifetimes worth of strangers in only a day."

"How are they going to feed all these ponies? I understand it's a feast, but the logistics must be a nightmare."

>>42608174
"I'd imagine you're use to it, Smoke. Is your extended family as large as the one you've live with? What are your family gatherings like?"

>>42608298
>>42608489
"Well it is certainly a shock to my sensibilities, even having had the Paavola skew my understanding of scale. I feel like I've seen a lifetimes worth of strangers in only a day," You say, "How are they going to feed all these Ponies? I understand it's a feast, but the logistics must be a nightmare."
"They make quite a bit of food beforehoof and a lot of Ponies donate food for Radonitsa." Smoke replies.
"Speaking of Ponies, I imagine you're use to it, Smoke. Is your extended family as large as the one you live with? What are your family gatherings like?"
"Yeah, my family is pretty big," He nods, "We don't have gatherings often, but when we do they are quite chaotic."
"Are they like the Radonitsa gathering here?" Tanissja asks.
Smoke looks out at the crowd, rubbing his chin as he thinks.
"...Reduce the amount of Ponies by a little over half and I think it is more accurate."

What do you do?

>>42608730
We blink, turning to look at the crowd, counting heads as we try to imagine what his family tree must look like.
'Pony families in fields of agriculture are populous... Would encouraging Hippogriff efforts in agriculture see a boost in their population, or would it have more to do with the extensive land required to farm?'
"... How many siblings do you have again? Cousins as well."

As/After Smoke Tree answers, we lock eyes with Tanssija, our lip briefly twitching with a silent teasing grin.
'Sounds like a family that would adore some grandfawns.'

>>42608730
"That's... Still a lot, especially considering the space here compared to the farm."

Stopping early tonight. Tomorrow there isn't going to be a post cause tomorrow is moving day for me. The day after there will be one.

>>42609213
Night, Pluto!
Good luck with the move!

>>42606823
Nice! Wish I had the brain for that sort of storytelling. The closest I can immediately think of is Warframe.

>>42609213
Good luck on the move! Don't forget to hydrate and take breaks whenever needed.

.

>>42608730
"... That many ponies around the source of Etsys' strongest alcohol... I imagine things would get rowdy. Do you have any stories of one of those gatherings going awry?"
Any crazy stories of a mass hoard of drunken ponies?

Boop

Night Bump

Day bump

>>42608880
>>42608942
>>42610831
Move went good, still just getting used to the space and getting ready for my new job.

You blink at this, turning to look around at the crowd, counting head as you try to imagine what his family tree must look like though you quickly lose count.
'Pony families in fields of agriculture are populous... Would encouraging Hippogriff efforts in agriculture see a boost in their population, or would it have more to do with the extensive land required to farm?'
"That many Ponies around the source of Estys' strongest alcohol... How many siblings do you have again? Cousins as well?"
"Ten, including myself," He responds, "For just cousins... about thirty."
After he says this you lock eyes with Tanssija, her own eyes showing shock at the number, but your lip just twitches with a silent teasing grin.
"Sounds like a family that would adore some grandfawns."
"Yeah..." She breathes, "I hope they don't expect ten as well."
Smoke chuckles a little at this as you continue.
"I imagine things would get rowdy. Do you have any stories of one of those gatherings going awry?"
"They don't happen often, but when they do something does usually not go to plan," He replies, "Last gathering my uncles managed to find a way onto the roof and decided to try to jump into some haybales. Safe to say a few of them got injured, though it was still a spectacle and they still had fun despite it."

What do you do?

>>42613581
"If that is a regular enough occurrence, I would imagine your family is prepared for such things. I would also hope that they're usually better role models for the next generation, but I understand some outliers are inevitable. Sounds like you'll have plenty of experience for when it's your turn."
(Meant to imply parenthood but be deliberately vague)

Nice, always good when a move goes smoothly

>>42613680
"If that is a regular enough occurrence, I would imagine your family is prepared enough for such things," You say, "I would also hope that they're usually better role models for the next generation, but I understand some outliers are inevitable. Sounds like you'll have plenty of experience for when it's your turn."
"I suppose."
It takes several moments for both of them to process what you said. Once they do though they both blush and look around.
"N-Not for a while, at least." Smoke finishes.
"Y-Yeah." Tanssija agrees.

What do you do?

>>42613812
"Of course, of course. Nature will take its course, after you two decide you're ready. Or one of you decides it's time and makes a strong argument that sways the other. I'm sure they'll be quite adorable. I suppose that means I would get to be their fun aunt, wouldn't I."

>>42613812
"Of course. You two haven't been wedded yet. I do wonder which side of the family will hold the venue. Will it be a wedding fit for royalty in the Paavola? Or a down to earth wedding with converting the barn into a chapel? Either way, you both won't need to worry about empty seats."

>>42613843
>>42613935
"Of course, of course. You two haven't wedded yet and nature will take its course, after you two decide you're ready. Or one of you decides it is time and makes a strong argument that sways the other. I'm sure they'll be quite adorable," You continue in your usual deadpan, "I do also wonder which side of the family will hold the venue. Will it be a wedding fit for royalty in the Paavola? Or a down to earth wedding with converting the barn into a chapel? Either way, you both won't need to worry about empty seats."
The two don't say anything and continue to blush. And before they even can say anything, Hannu decides to step in a bit to save them from your teasing.
"Either way, they won't have to think about it for a while," He says, "I am assuming food sounds good to everyone? There is a crowd, though we would probably have to go through the crowd no matter what."

What do you do?