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Post by Admin on Jun 17, 2014 19:27:27 GMT -5
... they're made.
Times have changed. Things that were once so stable and predictable morphed and slipped out reach. That's what life was, after all. An ever-ending tide of wildness; happiness, sadness, anger, joy, love and hate constantly fluctuating and sending askew our model of reality. Some simply accept this as reality... but some do hold on more than others on their small ships, braving the waves and storms in the hope of finally finding peace. The fools, chasing after a mirage in an ever-ending battle.
Celestia was currently sitting on her porch, about to set the sun down. It had been a hundred years now and still, the feeling of bitterness kept stinging her at each and every night. When the sun had been lowered and when she had to raise the moon. It was alien, raising something which wasn't even hers... the magic she felt when she reached for it. It was bittersweet, to say the least, remembering brighter times for a very short instant before she'd see her sister's silhouette on the moon, recalling those horrid events which shook her to her very foundations, leaving deep wounds that would take two eternities to heal.
But things wouldn't always be like that. An she was determined to make everything right once more. She knew her sister... and she knew a way to make her the mare she once used to be when she'd be back from her one thousand years slumber. However, it wasn't something she'd be able to accomplish alone, and that she knew all too well.
This is why since a month now she had carried out a certain operation, she had to find special ponies... gifted ones. Geniuses so to speak. But gifted magic users didn't run every street corners. Sure, there was a few out there that could put on a show and impress some teachers... but what she needed right now was a step above.
Several steps above.
She needed the best there was; only a handful would suffice. The only thing she had to do was to find them... and being the princess of Equestria, doing so hadn't been so difficult. Sending her guards and investigators high and low, she'd seek throughout all of Equis in the hope of finding the best there was. They had to be young, no more than twelve years old... or close to, at least. Youngs were more capable of learning and would make the whole process a lot more feasible.
Tomorrow would be the first day she'd be teaching them... she had three students in all, very promising ones with surreal abilities, coming from various countries but all capable of speaking common equestrian. She had read their dossier, but this was far from being satisfactory. This wouldn't be just any type of class, after all. All of them would be closely monitored by her, giving them much more attention than any classed would normally give to any foals... so she'd have to know them on a more personal level and bond with them as much as possible.
That would be key. They'd have to trust her.
When the day arrived, Celestia had arranged her class room, a very large one with a personal desk for every foal with drawers, comfortable chairs and all their furniture already there and in stock. There were many libraries all around them, art installations, instruments, world maps, fossils, science and chemistry equipments... Everything was there. Nothing less for her future pupils, after all. However, she didn't want them to feel too alienated by all this; still keeping a typical class desk arrangement with her desk being at the very front, near to a chalk board.
She had to admit, it had been a while since she haven't taught anything to anypony... she felt somewhat rusted as well as slightly nervous, but still confident. Sitting at her large desk, she'd made the final preparations before she'd leave the class behind, satisfied. She'd now be on her way to greet her new students.
--------- A few days before... --------
Yesterday had been a rather boring day. The usual, really. The orphanage never really had been an interesting place to begin with. But that's where he lived, sort of, and that's where he ate... and learned. But the teachers there didn't really liked him... He had them all figured out already and they held no secrets to him. He had out-smarted them already and couldn't care less of their puny punishments... How many times had he already read their agendas in secret hidden in their desks? Many times for sure and each time it was the same, repetitive, mind-numbing garbage. He'd only stay for magic and science... and even there, what he learned there wasn't much useful to him. He already knew everything those out-of-the-windmil, generic teachers had to offer with his standard diploma.
Instead he'd enjoy a day out, pretty much skipping class and go to his own place. He was the only pony allowed to leave, come and go like this without fear of retribution. Why? Because they knew better than to try and handle him carelessly. The last one who touched him had been sent to the hospital with a broken face; having received a brick with enough force to shatter part of his cheek and jaw.
So there he was, in his small house, made out of stone bricks. He built it from the foundation and up to the last shingle. Being used to build things and quite good at it as well, his magic was also very powerful, having lots of raw force to it, he was able to cut stone and move large pieces around with little to no effort. He engineered his whole habitation, sturdy, sand storm proof, and just his size. He even had flowing water... magical current harnessed from solar panels on the roof... everything, really. The only reason why he ever went back to the orphanage was to eat... and perhaps socialize from time to time?
Cozy in his own habitation, armored hoof steps would let themselves hear. He was living outside the city and on his own; no mistake that guards were coming his way. He'd narrow his eyes as he'd levitate a steel mace behind the wall where the door was. If they were he to apprehend him, they'd regret that.
There would be three knocks at the door. Keeping some distances from the entrance, he'd look at the guards... those weren't Sadle Arabian guards... They weren't even from the same continent altogether. Those were guards from Celestia's palace in Canterlot, all clad in gold armor with a white coat. Easy to recognize.
He'd remain silent, unsure what to make of all this. One of them would speak up, breaking the awkward silence that was taking place.
Guard#1: Zahentis? Zahentis Massani?
The second guard would squint his eyes as he'd inspect the foal from head to hoof. Black coat, long, black and flat mane. Tall, slim and golden eyes, a fine and long muzzle... and of course, the pyramid crowned with an all-seeing eye as a cutie mark. It could only be him.
Zahentis: Reveal your motives immediately...
One of the guards would raise an eyebrow at what he had just heard. Partially because of the tone but also because of his choice of dialect. He'd also notice his horn glowing; surely he was holding onto something, perhaps a mean to defend himself. He'd have to diffuse the situation before things would turn sour. Celestia didn't sent them here to patronize the kid either, after all.
Guard#2: Just by looking at you, I can tell you got us all figured out already. So I shall cut to chase and keep this brief. Princess Celestia herself sent us here in the hope you'd accept to follow us back to Canterlot...
At this Zahentis would raise an eyebrow, but keep listening.
Guard#2: ...I think we both know you're a bit special... perhaps a bit more talented than others, right? Believe it or not, but Celestia knew about that and she wants you to become one of her very own protégé. She wants to teach you what she knows.
At this the unicorn's eyes would widen for a few seconds... but immediately changing for renewed doubt.
Zahentis: Why? What is her object and purpose into doing such a deliberated and selfless act?
At this the guard would chuckle.
Guard#2: I do believe she has great plans for you, Zahentis. She saw that you had potential... the kind of potential only very few figures ever had in the whole story of Equis. She wants to see you flourish and tap into your whole potential!
At this, Zahentis' horn would dim down as the mace would be lowered on the ground. He'd take some time to consider... but the more he thought about it, the more his defenses would lower, allowing himself to believe for a moment that there was, perhaps, good in all this. He was biting.
Zahentis: Very well... I accept.
------ Back in present days... ------
And so there he was now... In Canterlot. He was sitting in a small room, a room with several sofas, some table games, books and the like. On the left table were also snacks of the varied kind, going from fruits to small sandwiches, juices and some light deserts...
It was a waiting room, but a rather fancy one at that, he had to admit. Immediately the small, complex building blocks had caught his attention... a bit juvenile to his taste, he had to admit, but he was getting bored out of his mind. Right now he was halfway done building himself a miniature-sized fortress of a sort with several functional mechanisms included in it. There was also two other unicorns in the room... But he paid little to no mind to them. Given he was also extremely introvert, it didn't help on that aspect. Probably more gifted students just like him, he figured. In due time he'd get to know them better... but not now.
Right now he was building.
Soon Celestia would arrive, or so they were said, anyway. It still left them time to do stuff meanwhile...
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Jul 7, 2014 16:45:48 GMT -5
Those two others had indeed been called by Celestia too. They were there for the same reason as the new one, only they didn't know this yet. Well, it was actually easy to tell that he was also said to be gifted. Else he wouldn't be in that very specific room.
Those two unicorns were a male and a female. The male possessed a silver colored coat which actually looked rather bright too. He took care of it for sure. His mane was short and well combed towards the front and tossed on the left side. He had a pair of bright, yet shy green eyes. His tail seemed to be well taken care of. Its size was regular, nothing too long, yet nothing short either. He refrained from sitting on it to avoid having to fix it later.
As for the other unicorn, at first sight she seemed to be taking life rather lightly. When the new one came in the room, she couldn't help but to smile at him before going back to... well, waiting. Engaging into conversations right away wasn't her thing, yet she was very open to others coming to her. This young unicorn could be described as beautiful at first sight by most. A salmon colored coat covered the body and and long, flat black mane fell from the top of her head on both sides. The same style applied to her tail and she owned a pair of bright blue and gentle eyes.
They were quiet at the moment. Nothing much would happen... and Celestia wasn't still there. How did they come to be here, though?
-----------------------------------
A few days back, in a school of the kingdom of Centurius, the young colt was doing like any other school days... studying in class, listening well to the teachers and simply being a good student. He enjoyed learning new things, yet his favorite thing had to be learning about magic. Since he was a unicorn, in Centurius those gifted with magic had a class to learn about their power and how to use it. General classes were given to them to learn the basics of it and different other courses were enabled to those who wished to learn even more into more specific domains of magic. How to use magic for gardening, how to defend yourself, how to levitate, even. The young colt's favorite one was about how to use defensive spells. He simply thought that it was important to be able to defend yourself against different threats. He simply knew that the world was not all so safe around the place... so he liked to think about different ways of casting defensive spells to protect himself or the others.
Unfortunately on that day he didn't have any of those classes. They were for later in that week, yet good thing for him he already knew a lot and could use his own magic better than most unicorns. His defensive spells were also already pretty good. So much that he could create a reflector shield around himself. It never served him yet... but who knew?
As far as things were now, he was in his history class learning about the beginnings of Equis and all of the sort. He was paying attention to the teacher at the board at the front who was writing stuff up for the students to write down. Holding his quill up with his magic, it was writing on its own that he didn't even have to look at the paper. Information came in and was immediately transcribed down on the scroll in front of him. Yet even there he was also thinking... thinking to himself, thinking about other things he'd like to do, planning out what he would do after class. He could listen to the teacher at the front, write down the information the class was given and at the same time be in his own world, thinking about other things. Multitasking... he was good at that. Yet such a high level of concentration wouldn't keep him aware of his surrounding all too much. Yes, he could tell others were around him, but there were hoofsteps that were heard in the halls. Heavy ones at that too. It wasn't a group of students, it wasn't the other teachers... Several heads were now turned towards the door of the rather large classroom. The teacher did the same as he noticed it wasn't just any type of hoofsteps. Were guards from the castle here? If so, then things were looking bad...
The door was knocked at three times and the teacher rushed to open, not wanting to leave whoever was waiting behind. Yet to his great surprise they weren't guards from Centurius. There was two of them, both wearing a golden armor and helmet which well represented a certain country. If they were allowed in the school like that, then surely they had to go through the king first.
Teacher : Uh... Can I help you?
Guard #1 : We are here under the orders of Princess Celestia. We are looking for a young unicorn named Gravis. Is he in this classroom?
The teacher still wasn't completely at ease with all of this. Even if he could figure that they were here in peace, he wasn't certain if he should just... allow them in like that and take a student away. One of the two guards could notice that this teacher wouldn't answer right away and let out a sigh, removing his stern look.
Guard #2 : The Princess has ordered us to come for one of your students. She is offering the young Gravis to receive her teachings. It is not everyday that the princess makes such offerings!
In the back of the class, the one who was named Gravis had heard the whole thing and had gotten up from his seat. He heard the name of Celestia as well as the word 'teachings'. To be under Celestia's care and learn? This was... this seemed to be too much now. He had been praised many times already for his grades and magic, but for it to come this far... wow. This was a rare occasion and he wouldn't miss on that one.
Gravis : I'm here!
He'd say, stepping out of his desk and showing his face to the guards who instantly looked at him as he spoke. Being taught how to be polite in front of royalty, he did his best to stand up straight for them. The first guard stepped further inside to have a better look at him and smirked.
Guard #1 : Well, well! I think you have already heard what we came here for.
He'd say. At that Gravis went closer to them for one thing. To examine them. He'd look at their armor from where he was, their helmet... It was easy for him to confirm that they truly were from Canterlot. He'd look at one in the eyes.
Gravis : To receive the teachings of Princess Celestia... I accept. I will come with you to Canterlot.
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To earn the title of a princess, you had to accomplish a lot. In doing so you would be rewarded with a pair of wings or a horn to make you an alicorn, thus making you also a princess. Yet in a certain country, situated to the east of Equestria, there was a small country there called Héping. A royal family resided and controlled the country. In the eastern side the griffins were mostly the ones populating, but it so happened that a few ponies managed to get a small piece of land to be theirs. It would remain theirs for as long as they wouldn't try to expand.
A king, a queen and one princess were in charge of governing the place from their castle. All were unicorns, possessors of magic. They did not have an extra pair of wings, but they were still called king queen and princess nonetheless. They were respected among their subjects for their kindness and opened-mind. The small nation was at peace in this time.
The inside of the castle was rather large, with a lot of space around. In one of the rooms was found the young princess, Raiya. Sitting on the tatami floor in front of a table in her princess clothings, a light pink top with long and large sleeves for the forelegs while the bottom part was completely covered by a red dress. She was writing on a scroll at the moment, mostly studying. Indeed, instead of going to school like the others would do, she was taught by a private teacher. It was always an honor for this teacher to do his job for the royal family, sworning to do the best he can. As of right now, though, it wasn't school time, but the young princess still had her studying session to do.
It was not much of a problem to her, though. She was able to learn well and fast. She was understanding the matter much faster than the regular students.
Like many others, she was also a unicorn. There was yet something different about her, though. Her talent in magic was more developped than any others of her age and even others older. The king and the queen were quite proud of their daughter for this. In her younger age she had already begun to use magic. Her parents taught her how to use it early when they had discovered this about her. One time she had managed to light the candles all on her own with the use of fire magic, something unicorns couldn't all do. She seemed to be an adept with the element of air as well for her young age.
Because of this, something rather special happened to her on that day. Completely unaware of anything, Raiya was visited in her room by the king father. This one approached her, putting an halt to her studies and sat with her.
King : My daughter. Pardon me for interrupting you, but I have something rather special to announce to you.
The young princess, curious, looked at her father with questions in her eyes, wondering what this could be all about. Her sight itself was enough for the king to understand that she was ready to hear what he had to say.
King : Celestia, Princess of the sun who watches over Equestria, has heard about your prowess in magic. As of right now, two of her guards came all the way here to Héping to speak of it with you. Will you hear them out?
At this, Raiya smiled at the king and nodded.
Raiya : Please let them in!
She'd tell him. The king got back up and invited the two guards at the door to step inside. The Canterlot guards both bowed to the young princess.
Guard #1 : We are very honored to meet you, young princess.
One of them would say for both before getting back up. Raiya gave them a slight bow too out of respect for their work as well as the pony they served.
Guard #1 : As you have been told, our princess has heard about your talent in magic. With that said, she wishes for you to be her own student. You would receive her personal teachings. The princess believes you could do a lot.
Raiya looked at them both as she would hear them out on this topic. She had heard of Princess Celestia before. Yes, and she had heard only good things. She was the one raising and lowering the sun during the day and had done many things to Equestria. She was said to be a very kind princess too as well as very powerful. To learn directly from her was something not everypony could have. This was a great opportunity that Raiya had. After a moment of silence, the other guard would speak up.
Guard #2 : Will you follow us back to Canterlot to receive the teachings of Celestia?
She didn't need a lot of time to think about this that her decision was already made up. She looked up at her father with the same smile. This one only nodded at her, pretty much giving her the autorisation. She would look back at the two guards and get up on her four hooves.
Raiya : I accept with great pleasure.
She would politely say before bowing to them both. Those two would do the same again, only this time with some incertitude. They weren't used to the culture here...
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Back in the classroom as of the present moment, Raiya didn't have her princess clothes on. They weren't needed here and she was not in Canterlot as a princess, but as a student. As for Gravis, he came as who he was when he followed the guards back to the great city. Already the two of them had introduced themselves to each other. The new one, however, they didn't know who it was. Apparently, like them, he was also a gifted pony who Celestia personaly chose to give her teachings to. It was rather silent at the moment... Raiya decided that perhaps she should break the ice with the new one, just so they could start somewhere. Again she would look at him with the same smile she gave him before.
Raiya : You have been chosen by Princess Celestia too, haven't you?
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Post by Admin on Jul 7, 2014 20:30:20 GMT -5
That castle he was building was unsatisfactory. Mainly because it was too small, but also because it was made out of lego bricks. Yes, reality was beginning to knock at his door when he realized the box he was levitating bricks out of was almost empty... moreover he wasn't even half done through the darned thing. Even if it already stood over four feet tall, had functional doors, windows, a moat and the whole shebang... this had been a disastrous failure in his book. He'd narrow his eyes as he'd stop himself, analyzing where he had gone wrong. Firstly he didn't count the volume of bricks accurately enough... the foundations were off, hastily made, the whole thing wasn't even symmetrical, partially due for him probably not caring enough, honestly.
How sad.
He'd let out a sigh of annoyance mixed with absolute boredom when, eventually, one out of those two other unicorns came to him. He'd look up at her from head to hoof, raising an eyebrow. Royalty. He could tell, not only from her appearance, but also of how she articulated her each word... the tonality in her voice, it felt formal and too well-mannered. The way she stood as well, her posture mostly. But what did she wanted? Right now he didn't felt like... talking. Though, giving how pathetic his building session had been, he was running out of options to distract himself. That's probably the same reason as to why she decided to come talking to him. That's right, even royalty needed distractions. What kind of torture was this anyway? Trapped in the confinement of four walls until three unicorns are reduced to babbling doofus eaten by the need for distractions...?
To her question, the black unicorn would deadpan, putting his attention back to his mediocre, half-built fortress. His magic, precise like diamond, would disassemble the whole thing in one swift motion, every brick simultaneously. All of them floating in a perfectly ordered pattern, they'd then all reconnect themselves in a big, perfect cube and put down on the floor. He'd then let out a sigh as he'd get back up on all fours, now heading toward the small buffet, brushing close to her without much of a word or a look.
Zahentis: -I- chose to accept her offer, yes.
He'd say. There was a great difference there... at least, for him. He had to specify that part. He'd then begin to scope all the pleasantries laid on the table before him. He had eaten lunch prior to coming here... so now he was in the mood for some desert. Pastries maybe? Eww, but no cupcakes; too much sugar, not enough taste. He did like chocolate, though... dark chocolate even more... but there wasn't any of that. They were in Canterlot and they didn't had any chocolate? Really? But they DID have baklavas, however. He'd fancy one of those for certain.
Levitating one, he'd bring the sweet to his mouth, take a small bite as he'd savor the nutty, honey goodness, not bothering to look back at any of them. He'd rather take a look at the horizon... the small buffet table being set on an outside balcony.
And that's when the door behind them would finally open. Guards on the other side stepping away as the supreme ruler of Equestria would step inside. Zahentis would finish off his small treat and wipe his mouth clean as the tall alicorn would make her way to the middle of the room, her majestic mane flowing on the side, defying the laws of gravity, mesmerizing. Her coat white as snow, her horn long, pointy and perfectly straight... and she was tall, too.
Yet, none of this would impress him. Keeping that... unruffled expression, he'd simply look at her. He didn't make any face... but he didn't went out of his way to show unnecessary joy or anything either. The few maids that were in the place would bow down to her and maybe even the two others?
But -he- wouldn't.
Not out of defiance, but simply because... well, he saw no need to do so. He barely knew her personally and didn't felt comfortable doing so. He'd simply look at her, straight into the eyes... reading her facial expressions, reading her body language and every motions. He was analyzing her. Already... straight from the start, he could make something out of it all. It felt like a mask. It felt fake. A farce. She was putting efforts into making herself look good as much as possible. And it showed. Too much like was not enough.
But why? Why go so far to make -such- a "good" first impression to begin with? They say those were the most important... And right now all he could tell was this:
He was not convinced.
As for Celestia, she'd wait for everyone to bow, or not. Once that done she'd smile softly as she'd look at all three of them. Starting with Raiya, obviously looks of joy and respect present on her visage. Gravis seemed a little more reserved but otherwise pleased to be here as well. As for the last one... Her eyes would narrow briefly as she'd cross his gaze.
Though, the more she'd look at him, the more... uncomfortable she felt. She felt... bare? She couldn't quite put her hoof on it. But it didn't mattered. She'd put on a smile anyway as she'd chuckle, looking at all three of them.
Celestia: I welcome you, my little ponies...
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Jul 9, 2014 22:28:35 GMT -5
The answer that Raiya had received from the new pony sounded like he simply didn't want to talk and all she wanted to do was to break the ice since... well it was dead quiet in this place. The other unicorn, Gravis, wasn't much of a talker either. She had already tried herself. Pretty much the only thing he said was that, yes, he was chosen too. Raiya had to wait a little before she'd get the answer from both of them in the end... they seemed to be both in their own world. Oh well... might as well just cease talking and go back to be doing nothing other than waiting. She'd return to her place, sitting there comfortably on one of the cushions the room had for them. With strangers in here... and no princess in sight, she was already missing home. She'd briefly look at the new one who took up some pastries to eat. Unlike him she wasn't hungry at all, but the pony next to her seemed to have some sort of interest for that table full of food.
He had gotten up too and went over to it while Raiya would rest her chin on her hoof looking bored... yet would quickly remove it from there and take a normal posture again. She wasn't taught this kind of thing back home!
Meanwhile the young Gravis arrived at the table next to the new pony, yet not because he wanted to have a sweet talk with him, but mostly because seeing him go there made him curious enough to see what kind of stuff he could put in his stomach... Yet the more he'd look at the table, the less interest he would give it. There were a lot of pastries on this and in different plates. He didn't feel like having any of these given he didn't even have lunch or anything yet. He'd scan the table, though, remaining silent and just checking to see if there was anything interesting on it. He sure could use a little something at least. Starting from the right, he'd go slowly to the left and eventually would fall on something more appropriate to eat!
Fruits. Different and many kinds. As well as vegetables. He'd pick up one of those small metalic plates and would full it with apple slices, carrots, brocolies, grapes and one piece of watermelon as well. All of that done with his magic, of course. Without saying any word he'd walk back to where he was sitting at before and would deposit the plate on a small table not very far from him.
Before eating, though, he'd glance at the cube that was made with the bricks the new one took. He had seen him make use of his magic and found him to be pretty skilled with it. Well... they were all supposed to be gifted unicorns in this place, really, but he simply knew that a regular unicorn wouldn't be able to make that so easily. Most would go one brick at a time.
Oh well... There was nothing else for him to say on this topic so instead he'd go and grab one of those apple slices from his plate, ready to eat it. About to do so, though, it's then that the door would open revealing two guards who moved out of the way as they entered, letting one taller pony come through. She was easily recognisable. Both Raiya and Gravis looked over as Princess Celestia finally showed up. In a respectful way, the two of them would get up and bow each to their own manner, Raiya keeping her traditionnal way of saluting. It was needless to say that Raiya was relieved to see the Princess as a smile marked her face when she appeared. She could finally meet the legendary Princess of the sun. As for Gravis, he was indeed happy to see her as well, only he was keeping it more for himself and wouldn't express much out of it other than a gentle smile.
After what they were all greeted by her highness.
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Post by Admin on Jul 11, 2014 12:46:30 GMT -5
Zahentis had to admit... what brought him here to begin with was more the promise of being taught by someone who had well over a thousand years of magical knowledge up the belt. That much he could respect. She did manage to rule her kingdom with acceptable efficiency, that much he could also respect to some degree. But to go and bow down to her because of her more favorable destiny? No. He'd never bow down to royalty. Not just Celestia, but anypony else. Not out of pride, but simply out of principles. Perhaps one day he'd pay his token of gratitude? But now she still needed to make her proofs.
Celestia would wait for them to finish bowing as she'd chuckle.
Celestia: Welcome to all of you. I am very thankful and relieved that all of you could make it here; you have traveled great distances in order to come to me and that is very commendable. I congratulate all three of you!
She'd take a few steps closer as she'd lower her head, getting to their levels as well as keeping her voice tonality as demure as she possibly could. The last thing she wanted was for them to see her as some sort of authoritative figure. Of course, she remained their teacher as well as mentor, but she would still rather keep a friendly profile on the whole affair. Otherwise, reaching to them would become rather difficult.
Celestia: Now, I do believe all this may be a bit sudden as well as rather surreal... after all, it's only a few days ago that all of you were living your regular lives and routine without doubts of such a thing ever happening... but rest assured everything will make sense as we will go up this road together!
She'd straighten herself, still smiling.
Celestia: Before we begin learning, however, I would appreciate us knowing each other a little bit more. For this, we will be going to out own private classroom which me and some other friends of mine have build especially for all four of us... follow me!
Turning around, she'd re-open the door, making use of her magic. She'd the stop outside as she'd begin to walk down the corridor, making sure for all three of them to follow before going any further. Once everyone behind, she'd keep going. Taking a few turns here and there until she'd arrive in front of a door. A rather large one at that too. In it was a hole for her to put her horn into... there was countless cogs and mechanisms as well as jewels all over it.
Pumping in magic, the door would begin to whir to life, every little bits and trinkets moving and getting into specific positions in specific sequences until a final click would be heard, opening the thick golden door.
Inside would be what could easily be qualified as one of the largest, most sophisticated and well-equipped class room of all times. Firstly, it was literally two stories high, the upper floor, reachable by a snail staircase, was a huge library filled with books, scrolls and documents of all sorts... a good twenty rows of it, easy. There was also several reading desks up there too with small lights on each on of them and comfortable-looking chairs.
On ground level were four desks. One at the front for Celestia and three others for them. Large ones with drawers and everything. There was a large blackboard with various chalks of size and colors, multiple fossils of various monsters and creatures hanging here and there as well as picture frames of important figures of the past on the walls as well as one gigantic world map with every bits of details present on it. They had a full set of chemistry equipment, almost a whole laboratory for alchemy experiments and the like.
But the master piece was in the center a very large table with what seemed to be a magical, holographic display of their planet floating above it. The table was round, made out of white marble and had several chairs all around it.
Celestia would step inside and let them venture forth.
Celestia: Welcome, everypony, to your new class... Go on, take a look around!
Once they'd get inside, Zahentis would only find himself nodding in approval. Everything there was in this class he had already seen... but never all in one place. Though, the one thing that picked his curiosity above everything else was that large table in the middle... so that's where he'd be heading first.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Jul 20, 2014 15:49:09 GMT -5
After bowing down, both Raiya and Gravis would get back up, one after the other. They'd look up at the princess, the younger princess keeping her smile on while Gravis took more of a neutral stance. To be honest, although it didn't seem to appear much in his face, he was still happy to be in this place. Just because he didn't express it didn't mean he couldn't feel it inside. Not even her compliment would show that it affected him, unlike Raiya who's smile would widen as she felt proud of it. It was a privilege too for her, so going miles and miles away from home to receive the theachings of Celestia was something she thought was worth working for after all the good things she had heard about her.
Gravis had it differently than her... Yes, he had heard about Celestia, but mostly in an exterior way. He knew about what she had done, he knew she was a ruler, a kind one too. He knew about a few things she had done. He didn't know her personally, obviously, so it was hard for him to smile or show happiness although he felt excited inside. He still had a good impression of her.
They would begin to follow the princess, Raiya being at the front of the two others, trotting happily before taking a normal pace. It was easy to read her mood. She was happy and excited to see what Celestia was keeping for them. Her princess habits would take the side quickly until she would be reminded of it or remember it herself.
Going through the corridors, they'd eventually all arrive in front of a large door and stop there. The small line the three of them were making would quickly be messed up as Gravis and Raiya stepped out of it to take a look at that door in which Celestia would put her horn in a small hole. Shortly after the magic would happen and just like that, after a few seconds, it would open. Gravis watched the door do so, looked up at Celestia's horn in the hole and simply tried to see how the thing was working. It wasn't something they had in his own kingdom... or at least as far as he knew they didn't have anything like that. A pretty interesting concept, really. Probably that only Celestia had access to it.
Once the door was opened, the ponies would step inside the very large and spacious room. Filled with everything a classroom needs and even more. Gravis and Raiya each looked everywhere at everything there was, both struck by impressiveness. Raiya had alway studied in her room in her castle and had never really gone into an actual classroom... so this was a big thing for her. Gravis had the typical ones, so obviously this here looked much better than what he was used to. What truly caught his eyes, though, was the library upstairs. When Celestia told them to have a look around, that's where he would head to. He'd climb the stairs and would already start looking for magic spell books.
With so many things to see, Raiya grinned at the sight of everything. Everything inside she wanted to look at before they could start with the introductions... only what to start with? She'd actually head to the holographic planet on the table. Once there she'd take a good look at it, would go around the table until she would be satisfied with what she was seeing. She had never traveled much in her life... well she was still very young for that, but it's not that she would realise just how large the planet they were living on was ginormous. She'd stare at it for a little while longer before she'd leave the table and go to something else. She'd do this, looking at everything, one at a time, putting her interest in everything before passing to another one.
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Post by Admin on Jul 20, 2014 20:54:00 GMT -5
Celestia would smile as she'd let them roam about and explore their classroom, chuckling as she'd reach for the desk and sit on her chair, letting them be for the time being as she'd begin to organize all of her stuff that littered her work surface. She didn't had time to class everything yet, she might as well take the opportunity to do so right now while they'd be busy. Plus, it wouldn't even be today they'd be learning anything aside making more proper acquaintances. So they weren't in any particular rush...
While Gravis went upstairs, Raiya would take the same interest than Zahentis when presented with the table. However, compared to her, he wouldn't waste much time at observing it's looks and outer appearances. He was more curious as to what it was supposed to be as well as what made it tick. A simple decorative magical holographic display? It couldn't be. He'd wait for Raiya to step away, and when she did, the black unicorn would take the opportunity to investigate further.
Firstly, he'd look for magical currents. Tracing back from the base of the holographic display, a magical current would lead to under the table. There, would be what seemed to be a panel in the middle colum... Quickly, he'd stick his head out once more to make sure nopony was looking... Celestia seemed busy, the two others as well. He'd take the opportunity to get back under there once more and take a better look at this panel.
Immediately he'd notice several magical runes... already recognizing them as locking runes. Very common ones. Though, there was a whole lot of them, so he couldn't figure them out. Yet anyway. His horn would light up... his golden magical aura would engulf all the ruins, going for the markings and filling them up. It would only take a few seconds for his copies to come out and slip back into his horn, leaving no traces of anything. Those were only copies with no power whatsoever... but it would allow him to better analyze them later on.
Immediately he'd then get out of there and get back at "innocently" looking at this holographic display. Maybe he'd try and make this thing function before he'd even try and see how it's been made? Heck, he didn't even knew what it was to begin with. His horn would light up once more as his magic would reach for the globe. His magic pointing vaguely where his village was... immediately the globe would transform itself into a map and show a close up of the area from an above perspective.
It was the correct place, but it didn't look exactly like his village; buildings randomly placed here and there... and everypony only being gray and generic looking. The only difference being between gender in their general forms.
Celestia would already be behind Zahentis at this point. The black unicorn knew this but paid no heed to it. She'd look between him and the holographic display, smirking.
Celestia: It is something, isn't it? This is a-
Zahentis: Simulator... yes. The lack of attention in pointless graphical details revealed to me the nature of this apparatus... I heard about them... but never seen one before... much less one of this size and complexity.
He'd look up at her, immediately curious about something.
Zahentis: You're expecting from us to become potential political figures?
At this Celestia would raise an eyebrow... he was a quick thinker for certain. But she'd only chuckle at this.
Celestia: Perhaps... who knows what you will all become once you will leave this place. I expect my students to be great in every domain, including politics and everything revolving around it... and this simulator will be the perfect tool to learn about such subject as well as many other things!
At this Zahentis would simply turn back looking at the simulator... He had to admit, this would be quite an interesting device to try out.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Jul 21, 2014 14:27:28 GMT -5
Up the stairs, Gravis was up checking some of the books. He had gone through a few already... Not by reading them, but simply making an overlook to see what they were about. He had taken some on the history of Equestria and others on spells. At the moment his horn was flicking the pages of a book about defense spells. This one would give him more interest than the others and took more of his time to look at it. There were different spells inside that he already knew about... The regular bubble shield was already something he could master and his was even enhanced. It was stronger than the regular ones.
He'd keep turning the pages, checking at all the different spells that were in there. Eventually he'd get to one he had never seen before, but that he himself had thought about back home... All he needed was to know how to perform it and finally he had come to see it. A reflector shield spell... One which could bounce magic attacks back to the caster or deflect most projectiles. Thing was, this shield was performed only to protect the front. Gravis' idea of a protective spell was more of something that would bring perfect protection for the entire body. If he took the time, he could learn this spell easily and even could add his own little touch to it. What he liked to do was to mix up different defensive spells together to create something new and with more utilities than just doing one.
Finally he would close the book before he'd go back to the shelves. There was already a small pile of books next to him and he didn't seem to be done... He was curious to see what else he could find in this library.
Gravis got up and slowly scanned the shelf he was looking at from left to right, taking the time to read the names of each one of these books. As he'd go through them, he would suddenly stop in about the middle of the section as one title caught his eyes and attention. Runes and their secrets was the title of this one. A silver aura would take grasp of the book and levitated it off of it to come float in front of his eyes, opening at the first page.
At this point Gravis was starting to forget that he was in a classroom with two others as well as the Princess herself... In here there was so much that he could learn about! He had always learned by himself too, so taking advices from others wasn't really his thing. If he were brought back to reality, though, he knew that getting the advices from the princess would be an exception to his rule.
For now, though, since they were given the time to look around, he would stay there, sit down and read about those runes. All he had heard about those what that they existed and could be used to create enchantments for different functions.
Raiya was still on the first floor, looking around and exploring rather quickly. Eventually she would head to the snail stairs so she could visit the second floor. Her hoof-steps could be heard in the metalic stairs, which Gravis seemed to be able to ignore... probably too absorbed in his reading.
The young princess noticed the other unicorn who wasn't moving from his place, surrounded with books. Just with that as well as how he was earlier, she could tell how he was a quiet guy reserved for himself. Perhaps she'd get a chance to talk with him later... as well as with Zahentis. Yet for now she would leave them be out of respect. No need to bother and make aquaintances when this would be done later anyway.
So instead she'd walk around the library, going from one section to the other, making sure to read the name of the aisle she was in. Eventually she would reach the same one Gravis was in and stopped at the beginning of it, actually wondering if she could come in or not... The other unicorn raised his head to give her a brief look. Raiya and him stared at each other for a second. The young princess began to feel rather awkward... but this would be all over when Gravis would go back to reading, not seeming to ever bother with what just happened. She then left.
She left to go to the edge of the second floor, looking down to where Princess Celestia was.
Raiya : Pardon me, princess?
She'd bow slightly.
Raiya : I was simply curious to know if you had any books on the different species that this world has?
Given the size of the planet and the fact that she knew griffins were also a species inhabiting this world, she could only guess that there were others and this could give her something to do while they were waiting.
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Post by Admin on Jul 21, 2014 16:23:21 GMT -5
Celestia would look at the two other which had made their way upstairs, apparently busy shuffling through the library. Those books she had put up there were rare and very valuable tomes of several subjects. Many of which extremely rare, if not unique altogether. Some of them had been written by her magical advisor, Starswirl the Bearded himself. No wonder they had their muzzles buried in those pages, who could blame them? This was like a gold mine for them. However, now was not the time for that. She had other things planned and would call them back to order, calmly, of course.
Chuckling, she'd then speak.
Celestia: All the books and subjects you'll ever want to read about shall be there and waiting for you... however, right now we have other things planned!
She'd say, casually walking back to her desk as she'd sit down.
Celestia: You may take seat in your respective desks, your names are written on them...
She'd say. Zahentis had the one on the right, Raiya in the middle and Gravis the one on the left. She'd wait for them to put back the books where they belonged, or simply aside, and gain their respective places before she'd begin to talk again. Once all three students comfortably seated, she'd carry on.
Celestia: Now I believe this would be the time for us to make more proper presentations, aside names and first impressions... I was told many things about you, but it is the first time that I meet all of you for real, after all.
She'd pause for a second or two.
Celestia: I believe a good way to start would be tell us, perhaps, your ambitions? Your dreams? As well as your expectations? What made you all so brilliant and where does this will to learn come from? Surely all of you must have very interesting stories to tell...
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And so began their great journey. The first few days would be there only to, perhaps, put them on the page and accustom them the the routine of class. Three days out of five, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday Celestia would be there to teach them in class. While the other two remaining days her students would be left to their own devices, working on their very own projects and interests. She would unlock the door to her replacement assistant, Miss Paperweight. Her duty was simply to keep an eye on her students to make sure everything would remain in order. Basically she had very little to do. While Saturday and Sundays, it would be weekend with no access to the classroom whatsoever.
A few weeks later, routine would instal itself among them all. Zahentis remaining the very silent and reclusive type. Almost cold. He was still very respecting when talked to however with his rather enriched vocabulary of his. Most of his own studies surrounded pony philosophy and psychology... as well as the function of the brain related to the magic surrounding it in the world all around them. Very deep, intricate studies that he kept for himself. Otherwise, simply following Celestia's regular class and subjects.
Not to mention that he had also grew very fond of the simulator. Today was a Thursday, Zahentis would be sitting at the simulator, busy ruling his own country... but with some difficulties. This was practice Celestia had asked for them to do; to get a feel for what ruling a country was all about. And what seemed like a simple task at first revealed itself to be quite the challenge, even for him.
The black unicorn would grit his teeth as he'd narrow his eyes.
Zahentis: You dim-witted buffoons... can't you understand that you must work in unison! No understanding... no cohesion! The fools!
He'd say, not bothering to lower his voice.
His kingdom was under threat by his neighbor and they were all too busy whining about the economy and poor living conditions... they didn't even bother with the educational system either... heading toward it's own undoing... once more. He had literally lost count of how many times he had to restart his own game and quite frankly, he was starting to think that this simulator might be faulty...
Zahentis: This is preposterous!
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Jul 25, 2014 17:08:51 GMT -5
Raiya wished she could have a little more time to look around. She had only gotten an overall view of the whole place. Everything seemed interesting to her. Sadly, as they were called back, she would give a disappointed nod, yet kept a genuine smile. The young princess reached for the stairs to climb them down and arrived back on the first floor where she could go and head to her seat. It was the one situated in the middle, right between Zahentis and Gravis.
Although looking around looked fun, she knew better than to disobey.
Young Gravis had heard the princess. It was what really brought him back to reality. It took him off the book he was reading. When he heard the voice and words, he closed the book he was reading, the one on the runes and got himself up on his hooves. With his magic he grabbed this one particular book and put it on the shelf again, making sure of noting its location so he could get back to it later. As for the other books he would make sure of quickly putting them back as well, only not trying to remember where they belonged exactly. It was a good thing that all of those he picked up were from the same wall.
Gravis then made sure of doing the same as Raiya and headed downstairs. Arriving back on the floor he directed himself towards the three desks on which their names were written. His was on the left side. He would silently take his seat before looking at both Raiya and Zahentis who were sat at their respective desks. After what their new teacher would speak to them. This would catch his attention and he would well listen.
It might not be like much... but it had all started.
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The students had begun their new very special class. Already they were picking up a certain routine which would make things simpler. Gravis and Raiya both were doing their own things when time was allowing it. Gravis' interest in the runes seemed to have grown bigger as he read more of this book. It was interesting to know that runes could be used in so many ways. In his free time he liked to learn more about them, but didn't know if there any that he could use to practice with yet.
Raiya on the other hoof had taken an interest in the world itself. She was curious to know more about the creatures who inhabited the world. She liked to know how they were living. Studying some more about it she had come to learn just how far both Gravis and Zahentis came from and even her own country was not an exception. It was crazy to be able to realise this. As of today she had already learned more about the different lands and countries that united this world. It made her use the simulator more than she thought, but not in the same way as Zahentis unless she was asked to practice what Celestia asked them to. Anyway, the simulator was already taken at the moment.
For her part, the young princess decided to learn about the fossils and various creatures in the classroom, having herself appropriate books going with it. For example, there was a fossil of a small dragon. She could examine it well and in details with the right book. She knew about their existance already, but to think they had lived for so long even before today... and they were even living in groups in some parts. The dragon migration took place once in a generation only... It was extremely rare. Perhaps she would have her chance to witness one in this life.
While they were busy with their occupations, both Gravis and Raiya would be disturbed as one pony sounded rather... irritated with something. It was too hard to ignore something like this, so Raiya looked over the great globe to see what was going on.
Gravis had done the same. Before his attention was turned to this small event, he was simply practicing his own spells in his corner filled with different books. When he heard the other young unicorn complain, he decided to be curious enough to see what was happening. He came out of his corner to approach the other student in question and looked at the simulator... According to what Zahentis said and what he was doing, Gravis was able to tell that he was perhaps having trouble doing what Celestia had taught them. He too had his own problems with his simulation... Once, his subjects, who he had to take care of, kept complaining as well even though he had brought them enough security, but he still couldn't satisfy them! He thought the education system was normal and that the economy was flowing well, but they were still asking for me and never had enough. Ever since he worked on the simulation only when he had to and prefered reading his books instead. So in a way he could understand Zahentis' frustration, but he didn't have the whole story either.
Gravis: What's happening?
He asked.
As for Raiya, from where she was she had decided to listen to them, see how they would sort things out. Perhaps they would work together or maybe not... After all the two of them seemed to be pretty isolated most of the time.
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Post by Admin on Jul 25, 2014 21:09:36 GMT -5
If anything, Zahentis firmly believed that if there was anything wrong right now... it was the simulator itself. He couldn't believe for an instant that ruling a kingdom could be so hard, not even for an instant. Obviously there were some variables in there that were well and truly off. They had everything they could ask for, keeping his whole kingdom ticking like a swiss watch. Yet, they went out of their ways out of the blue, creating disruption, blaming the system.
Then came in the distrust for their ruler and government, making them very hard to control and cooperate. In the end, out of desperation, making use of martial law and military to keep the crowd under control and neutralize the riots. Which, in return, turned into an all-out civil war.
Once this happened, adjacent countries took opportunity of the chaos to come in and invade his country, promising better government. Desperate, his people accepted without much thinking. Not only had he now lost complete control as a ruler, but now it was governed under a tyrant ruler, pretty much twisting the iron in the wound at this point. As if losing wasn't enough, now he had to watch his entire game slowly die out.
Zahentis would turn around and look at Gravis. He seemed to share his frustration over this game, somewhat... At this he'd just cancel his game altogether and declare forfeit, resetting everything once again and tossing the control pad aside, turning on his chair to face Gravis, exasperated.
Zahentis: It has been my 20th attempt since we first came here to have a decent kingdom for more than 20 in-game years but to no avail, as you can plainly see...
He'd get off his chair as he'd walk off in one direction... briefly and very subtly eying Raiya as he'd go toward the libraries, expecting Gravis alone to follow him and Raiya to pay no mind to them. Once in his favorite row, he'd pull out several books on pony psychology as well as mind-related spells, few more on natural magic and such.
Far enough for no other pony to hear them... he'd keep his tone down, explaining a few things that currently went through his mind.
Zahentis: Now... perhaps this will come to you as blasphemous as well as highly presumptuous... but I have the feeling that this simulation device may very well be rigged.
He'd turn to look at him, his green eyes slightly narrowed.
Zahentis: I've tried almost every possible approach with this infernal contraption and came to the conclusion that whoever made it decided that victory wouldn't be an option.
He'd smirk.
Zahentis: I will have to investigate further on the matter, obviously... but this is my first impression. It's designed to perfect ourselves, not to let us win...
Pulling up the few last books he needed, he'd levitate them next to him as he'd head back to his desk.
Zahentis: But I am quite hellbent on solving this issue, one way or another. Every system has it's faults, flaws and weaknesses... It's only a manner of finding them, my friend. No magical device will ever outwit me... that is for certain.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
Posts: 84
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Post by Jolleh on Aug 3, 2014 15:06:26 GMT -5
This was a lot of attemps trying to figure out how to win this... Gravis observed the simulation of Zahentis. He perhaps didn't see how he was managing his things, but he could see that this was not ending in a happy way, until Zahentis brought an end to it himself by forfeiting. He thought of his own attempts which also all failed as well. He hadn't done as many as Zahentis here, but he gave up pretty quickly and mostly came back to it when he had to do so. Politics and governing weren't things he really had in mind anyway. He couldn't see himself as a ruler.
Gravis saw the other unicorn get off the simulator and head towards the library. Without really thinking he followed him there in this specific row while Raiya simply watched them going before getting back to her own activities.
On the second floor they stopped at the library to look at some books and talk a little. Gravis sat down and looked at the books Zahentis took out. He felt intrigued by them. It's not that he had never seen them, but never really thought about developpping more interest on these subjects altogether. Pony psychology was indeed an interesting topic to learn about, but it wasn't on his priority list for the moment.
Zahentis spoke out and told him something that did catch his attention about the simulator. Rigged, was it? Could that really be true? Gravis' eyes widened slightly as he heard this. He hadn't thought of that... To him they had to find the right way to actually succeed and in order to do so they would have to go through many attemps, having to correct their ways everytime, but to perfect themselves instead? Gravis followed back the unicorn to his desk with the books he needed, questionning himself about the whole thing.
Gravis: But I wonder, though... How are we supposed to do this if there is actually no way of winning? Besides perfection is virtually impossible to achieve... There is a flaw in everything we do no matter what.
He'd say. From the other end of the room, Raiya heard a bit of their conversation, although it was unclear of what they were speaking about, but it all seemed to be related to the simulator, which caught her attention to them once more. She too had her troubles with this device, after all... Only this time, instead of ignoring them, she decided to pay them a visit. Leaving her things behind, she walked and stopped next to Gravis, although keeping a short distance with them, not wanting to be intruding all too much.
Raiya: Are you two talking about the simulator? I couldn't help, but to hear what you two said a little... and it caught my attention.
Despite the fact that she could be intruding in their business, she smiled nonetheless. Heck in this place there wasn't many people to talk with other than those two and the princess when she was there as well at Miss Paperweight with who she had talked a few times... It felt kind of lonely when everyone was busy with their own things in their little corner.
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Post by Admin on Aug 8, 2014 23:33:15 GMT -5
If there was something he hated was to be outsmarted. By anypony. He usually never let that happen. Either when he felt too dumb to argue, would just keep himself out of conversation altogether or go around the topic. But here? He was about to get bested by some sort of... object! A magical contraption, a simulation of something which wasn't even real to begin with! No way he'd let that happen. He'd try a couple of time more to win this fair and square, but if that cursed contraption refused to give in, he'd have to resolve himself to more drastic measures and show this thing what for.
To Gravis' question, the black unicorn would grin mischievously as he'd look at him.
Zahentis: Simple, my friend... this dreaded contraption was designed to operate in a specific way... what we need to do is fool it... do something it was not designed to cope with. It will-
He'd suddenly stop himself as Raiya would come in close. Close enough to hear what the both of them would be talking about. Turning around, his emerald eyes would meet hers as he'd just... stare at her for a while. He couldn't tell anymore of what he had in plan for this simulator. Gravis seemed like the silent type that kept things for himself, minding his own business. Raiya? He didn't know her all that much, but given she was a princess too, raised in royalty... something told him that if he told her he planned on sabotaging the simulator that she'd most-likely go up to Celestia and yap about it.
No... he'd have to keep his mouth shut... and come up with a lie. Or at least, just reroute the topic toward something more mundane and hope she'd just go along with that. The last thing he needed was to get himself into trouble, after all.
Zahentis: Yes... this simulator is driving me utterly mad. Surely you've experienced what a frustrating experience it is to use this thing... Me and Gravis here were simply...
He'd eye him briefly, hoping he'd understand to play along.
Zahentis: Discussing... ermm... shall we say, strategies? To see where we had so miserably failed and perhaps find a solution to this whole issue... How about you tell us where your strategy has flawed? Perhaps this way we may be able to connect more pieces of the puzzle together and elaborate proper strategies this way...
He'd say... which, truth be told, was somewhat half true. Not a complete lie, so he couldn't feel bad about it; one of his own personal guidelines.
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Jolleh
Junior Member
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Post by Jolleh on Aug 13, 2014 15:36:57 GMT -5
Indeed, Gravis was not the type of pony who would go speak to anyone about things he's being told. He found that rather useless to always share everything and even considered it a waste of time. He knew that most ponies were different from each other, so the interests shared were not the same. Anyway, unless someone asked him, he wouldn't have to say anything.
Zahentis began his explanation to which the silvered unicorn listened... or well, began to listen to. He began to process thoughts at the same time, thinking back about what he had asked. Thing is, he realised how he actually one-sided the thing. Yes, perfection didn't exist and nobody would ever be able to reach it, but the same had to be applied for the other things, including this machine... Catching the words of the other unicorn, they both would suddenly be interrupted by the voice of a young female. Gravis looked up in the specific direction of the voice and came to lay his eyes on Raiya. Was she really this curious about the simulator? If he recalled well, Gravis mostly saw her just explore the thing more than to use it for what it was supposed to be used for. Unless they had to work on it as part of class learning, she wouldn't spend as much time as both colts.
Gravis looked at Zahentis after the short moment of silence. At this, even Raiya was waiting for an answer from one of them until he spoke. As he said... the simulator was one frustrating machine and even Raiya had her share of this with it. Yet something seemed a little off there... Zahentis paused briefly as he looked at Gravis, who did understand what he meant with this quick glance. Raiya raised one eyebrow, feeling a slight suspicion... as if Zahentis there was trying to look for something to say. It's only after that she would regain a more normal look where she could recall how she had failed to keep her own game on a few times. His question sounded rather legit now.
Gravis: For example, I was unable to please my subjects even though I was giving them what they needed. Perhaps I was putting my focus on their protection a bit too much too... It resulted in them going against me anyway.
Gravis simply played along, adding his own truth to the story. Telling about his own failure would only make Raiya feel more like them. She was one to actually hate speaking of her own failures especially in presence of two other geniuses, but it felt easier when others were in the same situation. The young princess looked down and away with a bit of shame before coming back to them both, ready to speak.
Raiya: Well... In my case, the subjects were very satisfied with everything. The part where I fail is in the communication with the other kingdoms. No matter what I try to do, they rarely ever cooperate with me and... I end up being attacked. Besides, my people do not really know how to defend themselves. I try to make it as peaceful as I can, but it's not so easy with those from outside.
Sharing her story with this game, Gravis gave her a nod just to let her understand that he was with her, there.
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Post by Admin on Aug 20, 2014 20:32:13 GMT -5
Honestly, Zahentis had very little interest in his college's reasons for failure... at least, not anymore. From those testimonies, now he could confirm without the shadow of a doubt that this machine was indeed designed to piss them off to no ends. As the both of them would talk between themselves, Zahentis would narrow his eyes as he'd grab hold of his books and other belongings, all of them levitating toward him, floating in a perfectly ordered fashion.
Zahentis: I shall take my leave.
Hearing this, Miss Paperweight would immediately shoot her head up, looking as the unicorn ready to leave the class room. They were not supposed to... It was her job to attend to them until the end of the day, after all. The door still open, the replacing teacher would flare up her horn and grab hold of the door, about to close it before Zahentis would ever have a chance to get out.
Miss Paperweight: Now where do you think you're go-
Though, before she could finish her sentence, the door's aura would go from red to golden, slamming open, over-powering her magic with very little effort.
Zahentis: Outside. Isn't it obvious? I require time for myself... Please do not persist.
Dumbfounded, Miss Paperweight would remain silent as the black unicorn would step out of class and leave them behind... unsure as to why he did this to begin with. She didn't recall any of them to get in any sort of conflict. She was at lost for word, really. No doubt she'd be talking about all this to Celestia as soon as possible.
--- Friday, two AM. ---
The courses over and everypony off to bed, Zahentis would take the opportunity to put his scheme at work... something his mind had cooked off only this evening. Firstly, he had to take care of the guards... all these books on pony's mind in relation with natural magic coming in very handy at simply making them ignore him completely... or just forget about him. He'd be standing right in front of them that they'd not even care, literally.
He'd make his way to the class room easily, all the guards under his spell, simply going about without fuss until he'd reach the door. There, he'd be greeted with that famous horn lock. He had seen a couple of them before... usually unicorns simply used their magic to push mechanics inside, like a regular key would. The lock would normally only register it's creator's magical output; something experienced magic users could easily replicate... But this was Celestia we were talking about here.
Narrowing his eyes, he'd levitate a block from the ground and step on it, floating himself up to the horn hole's level, examining it for an instant. He'd then put this horn inside, using his magic to probe around... making a 3D print of the inside before he'd pull out, looking at the results.
The mechanism was rather simple... but the magical signature was... unique. He'd grit his teeth... this wouldn't be something he'd be able to replicate. It was millennium old alicorn magic, after all. Growling under his breath, he'd put his horn back inside and look again for something... anything that could perhaps be of any use. And that when he'd find it... In order to recognize one's magic, the door needed an enchanted item embedded with the owner's magical signature.
Grinning, he'd make quick work of suppressing it for only a few moments... something that would take immense amount of focus... but for him? It was foal's play. Once that done, he'd turn the lock without effort as the door would give in. Chuckling, he'd put the stone he was floating on back down and would step inside. Closing it behind him silently, he'd head for the simulator immediately, going under the table and reach for that panel he saw several days earlier.
Runes he didn't know much about... but those were simply there to reinforce the plate that hid whatever was behind it. That much he knew. So with sheer power of will and magic, he'd manage to just, well, rip it off. The magical runes would give in as the panel would open, reveling it's secrets to him. And what laid behind was what he had suspected... a magical singularity. Basically a magical mind... an artificial entity. Normally used to let magic execute very mundane tasks... like, say, passing a broom around.
But this one was something else. An orb, floating between two metal disks, with impressive amount of magical data flowing within it. Gently, he'd tap it with it's magic... getting a feel for it. One thing was for certain... he'd be in for a looong night.
---- Monday, 8 AM, one hour before class. ----
Friday would go on without an real fuss, aside a very tired Zahentis and a few words from Celestia for yesterday's pass actions. A little talk which he managed to slip his way out of like a slippery snake; faking his disappointment and doing his very best to look sorry. She'd smile at him and tell him there was nothing to worry about and simply warn her substitute teacher next before leaving if that were to ever happen again.
On Monday, Zahentis would wake up an hour before usual. Each one had their own rooms to sleep in, study, occupy themselves and the like. Making quick work of his breakfast and brushing his black mane in an acceptable manner, he'd get up and head for Gravis' room, knocking a few times with his hooves, making sure of waking him up.
Zahentis: Up! Up, you dense brick, we must talk! This is urgent matter!
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