Title:           NPC List
Author:          PonyStrangler
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/VLRdDdZk
First Edit:      Tuesday 26th of November 2013 03:39:14 AM CDT
Last Edit:       Last edit on: Thursday 1st of September 2016 06:54:31 PM CDT

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                            RAZORBACK SUPPORT STAFF:
 
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Aiutante: 90HP, 1DR. Age: 26. Month of Birth: August.
 
*****
(Amiable, Cheerful, Efficient, Focused, Multitasker, Talkative, Veteran: Casting/Crafting/Enchanting)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a wiry-framed pastel pink unicorn mare, with a medium length flowing auburn mane and matching eyes. She has some tone to her body, especially her rear.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a cheery, upbeat, and lavish styled unicorn from Manehattan's more 'ritzy' district, Aiutante was the child of wealthy business moguls who wanted nothing but the best of their first daughter, sending her to Canterlot's College of Magic to further her means in life.
 
On her way to one of the more 'refined' magic classes, she accidentally stumbled into a 'practical applications' course which was working on general crafting and enchanting. She found the hooves-on magic to be more suited to her interest, despite looking completely apart from such line of work. Also one of Hodch's most successful and adept students to date, greatly enjoying his 'extra credit' and 'private teaching sessions'.
 
Although she comes off somewhat haughty and, to humans, preppy, she has the utmost respect for those in the similar field, especially those far more experienced than her. Loves to multi-task, and is deeply focused when crafting or enchanting in any sort. While she has a rather noticeable Valley-girl accent, Aiutante can be a bit of a flirt, and tends to unconsciously complain whenever she gets dirty.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a large purple cog interconnected with a smaller green cog, between them an apparently jammed wrench.
 
*****
STATUS: an assistant craftspony and enchanter for Razorback Fortress, under contract.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Movement+2, Basic Speech+2, Basic Melee+3, Basic Research+4, Expert Casting+9, Master Crafting+8, Master Enchanting+8, Master Smithing+9
 
******
SPECIAL ABILITY: Disciple of Hodch. After many years of esoteric instruction and... uh, 'simpler' lessons by her well known teacher, Aiutante is capable of calling on much of Hodch's knowledge at will. Adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to any of the following skills: Casting, Crafting, Enchanting, and Research Smithing, and doubles the Reputation gained by Lunar factions.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Chromed Blacksmith and Crafter Tool Set: a generous collection of enchanted and runed tools to aid Aiutante in her trade. Includes chisels, engraving blades, hammers, and other tools; the effects and processes of each controlled by mental willpower. Grants a [1d6+7] <Blacksmith/Craft Tools roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
-Chromed Runic Horn Ring: a chromed steel horn ring specifically made by, and for, Aiutante's personal use. Adds +2 to all Casting rolls.
 
-Chromed Runic Anvil: a custom-made chromed steel anvil inscribed with unicorn runes, allowing her to add elemental effects and strengthen items. Grants a [1d6+10] <Runic Anvil roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
-Chromed Runic Hammer: a small, enchanted and runed chromed steel hammer with both flat and round heads, used specifically during the forging process or to precisely manipulate engraving blades, chisels, and other tools. Grants a [1d6+7] <Runic Hammer roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
-Custom Blacksmith Apron: a black cover-all, adorned in pony skulls with pink bows. Aiutante normally wears this when working near a furnace, or with metals and other potentially dirty materials. Unnaturally resistant to heat and grime.
 
-Personal Notebook: A thick, roughed-up, hot pink binder; almost exploding with papers, notes, and research on crafting and enchanting. Not a Diary, but contains a lot of funny doodles, as well. Her penmanship is impeccable. Grants an additional Research roll.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Allys, 100HP, 1DR. Age: 20. Month of birth: May.
 
*****
(Amiable, Blunt, Calm, Hostess, Intuitive, Listener, Purposeful, Quick, Thoughtful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: an average sized, dim green pegasus mare with a large, straight mane and solid pale green eyes, entirely dissimilar to Mercy's unusual condition. Somewhat stockier than most pegasi, but pleasantly curved with a thicker, more cold resistant than normal coat.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown, but likely good. An intuitive and easy-going mare, though with a bland, always tired sounding voice, Allys is neither hyperactive nor lazy, having the typical earth pony attitude combined with the speed and agility of a pegasi, this, unfortunately, makes her a somewhat poor conversationalist when it comes something other than giving advice, cooking, or any subject she knows well. Despite her overall nice qualities, Allys has a raging temper when sorely pressed or irritated, and would often find herself challenging the strongest or fastest for a night spent with her, IF they survived her intimidating voice, developed from years of shouting at customers from all across Tallus, many of which could easily have taken her down, yet didn't, a fact that she (incorrectly) attributes to her muscular figure and (correctly) the ability to quell riots by refusing to serve alcohol.
 
At Thrill's request, Allys was hired from Lucky's list of potential employees as the need for day and night cooks became apparent. Making the transition to the Fortress was quite easy, mostly as she had few belongings and prefers to travel light regardless. Shortly after arriving, Pella was also hired, giving Allys the choice of taking day or night shift, to which she chose day as nearly all the Operators were night-dwellers. Despite their constant joking, the two are close friends from being employed at Lucky's Bar. As Allys has stated before, her friend's nickname is 'Mella Pella' due to a rather profound baking session after a stressful night.
 
Meeting Caliya during one of his off days, the two struck up conversation, curious as to each other's experiences with the strange humans of Razorback. Intrigued by the awkwardly off-colored earth pony, Allys continued to meet with him constantly the next several months, steadily coming to like his blunt, quick spoken demeanor, though was concerned at his lack of Marks and the burn scars he refused to show. The two became virtually inseparable when not on duty, spending most of their time together in the Fortress, and occasionally taking trips to the Moors or Las Pegasus to relax.
 
Sometime in late March of Razorback's second year during the Fortress's renovation, Caliya, as he told Tipper, was approached by Allys during a day where most of the mares were acting 'very, very predatory'. Facing the possibility of what punishment he could not guess, he was far less than happy at Allys's demand to give her a foal, but on a stroke of humor, decided to give her exactly what she wanted. So far, neither seem displeased at this new stage in their relationship, though Twisted and Tipper continue to comment, with varying shades of humor and inappropriateness, at Allys's increased hunger and propensity to walk stiffly.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a blue and red bottle with the corks lying between them.
 
*****
STATUS: nighttime server and cook for the Fortress, under permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Caliya: very, VERY close friend.. and is expected to have his foal (or foals) in late February of next year.
-Pella: a close friend to.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Melee+5, Expert Speech+4, Expert Movement+5, Expert Chef+6, Expert Intimidate+6
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Amerose, Starborn Lorekeeper: 120HP, 2DR (+1DR from Lorekeeper's Robes). Age: 25. Month of birth: March.
 
>> http://i.imgur.com/OGJzCvn.png
 
*****
(Amiable, Calm, Chatty, Dutiful, Efficient, Eidetic Memory, Focused, Humorous, Inquisitive, Intellectual, Knowledgeable, Logical, Natural Charmer, Precise, Savant, Studious, Veteran: Alchemy/Crystal-Forging/Crystal Runes)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a dusky silver coated, sapphire and emerald maned Crystal mare with pale blue eyes, noticeably a bit smaller than most mares her age. Due to a strict diet and exercise routine, Amerose is stronger and more finely toned than most Crystal ponies, yet still retains most of her race's curvy, sultry appearance. Almost never takes off her robes, however.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: early life unknown.
 
When an offer by both Princess Luna and Princess Cadence, both taking their advisers seriously for once, came for somepony to accept the role of acting as a liaison between the Imperial Wardens and the Starborn, few of the Lorekeepers considered it worthwhile to respond to either. Dissatisfied with the younger Imperial Wardens and their refusal to take history seriously, Amerose eagerly responded to the summons, then at the age of 17.
 
Granted the twin ranks of Rune Knight and Citadel Mage, even though the latter is technically a position meant only for unicorns, Amerose forced herself to ignore the meteoric increases in rank, but did accept several items and enchantments from both factions. Diving deeply into the archives of both factions, she spent the vast majority of her time seeking information on the many historical relics that were as of yet uncatalogued or unknown, typically buried under a pile of scripts and tomes in search of a single line that could tell her what she desired to know, or where else to search for further clues.
 
Although relatively young at the time, her heightened focus, noteworthy skills, unorthodox methodologies, and greatly enjoyable company (in more ways than two) endeared her to both factions, allowing her access to possessions that had passed down through many generations, taking advantage of the temporary study and subsequently lighthearted flings whenever possible. While her lack of caring about the conflicts between factions made many younger Imperial Wardens consider Amerose dangerously close to an enemy, there was little open complaint against her, especially with Lunar Council member Chuz`Ain and numerous retiring Imperial Keepers backing her position as mediator and liaison.
 
In contact with Hodch as he began full time courses at the Canterlot College of Magic, and Belltower under Lunar Council member Oranti's orders, after a year at her position Amerose came to enjoy their humorous, easy going natures enough to proposition forming a herd between the three. While heartened by the Lorekeeper's sentiments, the pair gently declined the offer, stating their valid, but serious, reasons for why they could not accept. Understanding the oftentimes volatile events that the Starborn were forced to deal with, she bowed out from her proposition gracefully, deciding that forming a herd with non-military members would likely easier be and less stressful. She still maintained a professional friendship with the two, but privately she was severely disappointed at the poor timing, and began spending more time with the new friends (and lovers) her increasingly large number of faction contacts allowed.
 
Traveling all over Equestria, Saddle Arabia, and Germaneigh to study recovered pieces from the Dynasty, Amerose ran across Twisted Wing in the black markets of major cities often, and took an interest in the General-in-exile selling relics she'd come across in her own travels. Taking an, admittedly, significant risk to develop a working relationship without revealing her status in the Starborn, and knowing that she could both learn more of Tallus history while making a friend of the awe-inspiring pegasus, Amerose wisely kept her dealings from others silent. Unfortunately, Amerose quickly found that she was one of the very rare few whom would suffer negatively from Twisted Wing's Enchains in close contact, forcing her to keep a distance or else sneeze constantly. Despite the minor setback of having to keep from breathing in through her nose when dealing with the oversized mare, Amerose enjoyed the General's company, extending her official visits whenever possible and safeguarding the knowledge of her affairs.
 
During a visit to the Canterlot College of Magic after classes had finished, Amerose was startled at a sudden off colored remark from Hodch, whom was peculiarly happy at the knowledge she had befriended the Burning Pegasus. Making a humored rebuttal by stating 'a room filled with flexible succulent fillies will never be as good as her, you know', she was amazed at his agreement, even though the two knew well of her particular tastes. Recognizing his status as the Starborn's ersatz Lorekeeper, she questioned the circumstances that had driven Princess Luna and the General apart, curious at his mood immediately souring. Afterwards, she quietly thanked him for the explanation, yet was curious to understand Hodch's admissions of personal and professional distrust towards the Nightmare. Concluding that this line of thought was unlikely to lead in any positive directions, Amerose returned to her normal routine, subtly keeping an eye on Luna in the hope of aiding reconciliation should the alicorn express a desire to.
 
Keeping herself fully active for the next several years, Amerose's naturally amused personality exploded exponentially upon learning of Twisted Wing's newfound relationship with a human male from the Razorback mercenaries, swiftly becoming notorious for collapsing in the Citadel and laughing until she passed out in tears. Learning more of humans while ensuring that information on Twisted's travels remained suppressed, she considered the Nightmare's eventual reconciliation a sign of improved judgement, still choosing to say nothing of her own encounters regardless of the positive shift in mentality.
 
A personal request from Twisted Wing, returned to full Generalship during Razorback Fortress's renovation, caught Amerose off guard while relaxing in the Council Chambers. Frowning at the thought of abandoning her own research, the Burning General's brief explanation of Razorback's unusual (and highly volatile) circumstances intrigued her, and along with fifteen retired, yet still combat capable, former Starborn that would take residence in the Enclave, she bemusedly accepted the offer.. and, in front of the entire Lunar Council, promptly forgave Twisted for not having one last fling before becoming a 'proper mare'. Undaunted by Twisted Wing's (wholly expected) stunning display of fury, Amerose pointedly wrote her own request for another Lorekeeper from the Empire to continue her work at the Citadel, nonchalantly assembling her possessions and leaving the Citadel, all the while smiling at the near-endless stream of obscenities.
 
Arriving at the decommissioned Enclave, and dumbfounded at the collected weaponry, armor, and miscellaneous items from all over Tallus, Amerose, with Naliyna and Denra's aid, has seen fit to shift it's layout entirely, ensuring numerous rooms are both serviceable and livable once more, including the command post on the 'roof' of the dome. Conning Hodch into allowing her to consolidate the more dangerous items into vastly easier to manage buildings, she then convinced him to improve his already heavy-hoofed security measures, cheerfully providing numerous defensive wards for additional protection.
 
When not identifying relics or otherwise occupied, Amerose tends to stroll through the sections marked solely for the Dynasty eras, closely examining the works and artistry of her ancestors in thorough detail, though politely refuses to take any for her own research.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: unknown.
 
*****
STATUS: former Lorekeeper at the Imperial Armory, then Head Lorekeeper in liaison to the Citadel. Now commands and manages the Starborn at the Enclave, seeking to catalogue and study the entirety of it's contents.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Hodch: has a friendly rivalry towards, and takes every chance to (jealously) dig at him for his well known expertise in fillyfooling.
-Twisted Wing: although the two are on friendly terms due to their close contact, Amerose prefers not to deal with the Burning Pegasus much as she sneezes constantly in close contact. Still harbors a burning (pun intended) passion for her, however.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Fearless+3, Expert Movement+4, Expert Perception+5, Master Speech+5, Master Melee+6, Master Alchemy+8, Master Crystal-Forging+8, Master Research+8, Master Crystal Runes+9
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Charming Presence. Amerose's youthful voice, intellect, and mannerisms, combined with training received from both the Wardens and Starborn, grants her the ability to Charm living beings, particularly mares, whenever she desires their attention, company, or affections. Twice per day/night, allows a [1d6+3] <Charm ability when dealing with males, or a [1d6+5] <Enhanced Charm to females.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Lorekeeper's Robes (0/3 Slots, Archaic Legendary Relic): provides +1DR, reduces elemental damage by 1/4, and adds +1 to all Alchemy, Crystal-Forging, Crystal Runes, and Research rolls. A bright white, full body covering woven silk robe, several fluffy rings of cotton trim featured around the entire hem. Dating back to the Middle Dynasty Era, Empress Silver was in need of experienced Crystal ponies to undertake experiments in alchemy and the inner workings of elementalism, knowledge that would lead to creating the numerous, and puzzling, elemental cores created during the Late Dynasty Era. Holding a hoof out to the conclaves on the edges of the Crystal Kingdom, long before it was known as the Crystal Empire, a large number of Crystal ponies accepted the Empress's offer and shortly formed the Lorekeepers, commissioning these robes solely for their members. After the fall of the Dynasty, the Lorekeepers returned to their homeland, bringing back vast wealths of information which would dramatically improve the Kingdom's standing, allowing it to rapid become the Empire under their tutelage.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Insight's Gift: a recently devised ward, similar to those created by psions, this is a small, nearly invisible Empire crystal molded into a tiny ponyshoe on a silk string, the phrase for 'Focus From Within' carved on both sides in archaic rune script. A result of numerous experiments and intensive research from her time spent in the archives of the Citadel and the Imperial Armory, Amerose developed this during her efforts to improve the outer and inner workings of the highly emotional Crystal pony mind, and upon realizing the potential benefits of her research, she created this rather simple ward to aid her, keeping her other designs for additional testing. FRAGILE! Grants an additional roll to and adds +1 to all Crystal Rune rolls.
 
-Lorekeeper's Alchemy Set: an original set of alchemical tools from the Crystal Kingdom era, all made of finely tuned Empire crystal. Includes an alembic, a heatstone powered calcinator, dry & wet presses, an oloscope, a condenser, a retort, mortar & pestle, a coldstone for managing precise temperatures, and several specialized, newer tools that only Amerose seems to understand the use and meanings of. Adds +6 to and grants an extra Alchemy roll.
 
-Lorekeeper's Tome: a weathered book bound in valo bark, the thick sheaf pages penned in black beryl, artistically in the Crystal Kingdom era style of rune script. A copy of the original comprehensive book on Crystal-Forging techniques and the various Crystal Rune abilities from the early Crystal Empire era, greatly updated to current standards and teachings, there is enough information on precision sonic/vocal control and emotional paradoxes contained within that most unicorns are driven mad attempting to understand it, so she refuses to loan it out. Grants an additional Crystal-Forging and Crystal Runes roll, but cannot be used for combat purposes.
 
-Mountain Egg: a 3" tall, dark brown and red swirling egg with small green highlights, carved to represent the tenacity of the Northern Wasteland Mountains. One of numerous crystalline eggs carved in the Crystal Kingdom, before it became the Empire long ago, this is one of the Four Lands set, meant to evoke a sense of solid, predictable resistance in any weather condition imaginable. When carried by a Crystal pony, the Mountain Egg adds +1DR and +2 to all Melee rolls, but the bearer suffers a -1 penalty to all Movement rolls.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 1/3 Slots.
-Ice-Forged Shield: a 1' tall, clear Imperial crystal shield with a carved relief in bright blue of a small crystal-forging work shop, the coloration created by using the juice of a young bluesteel mushroom. Designed by Lorekeepers after the fall of the Dynasty, these shields were intended to be slotted into the front of standardized armor in order to compliment the expanded abilities of Crystal ponies. Unfortunately, most fell out of service since few Wardens specialized in crystal-forging, and were relegated back to the Lorekeepers. Though she carries the enchantment, the shield itself seems to have ket hidden elsewhere, likely for personal reasons. Adds +1 to all Crystal-Forging and Research Rolls.
 
-Reverse Paired Bond: a hoofband composed of pale blue, black, and purple kanpri threads, woven together by a master batpony crafter of the Starborn and given to a minotaur shaman in order to enact rites of exploration and knowledge. Adds +1 to all Crystal Rune and Perception rolls.
 
 
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Aster, Nightfang: 240HP, 2DR (+3DR from Nightfang Heavy Armor). Age: 37. Month of birth: March.
 
*****
(Armored, Cautious, Fearless, Guardian, Level-Headed, Veterancy: Combat/Senses, Watchful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a bluish-grey coated earth pony with a dark yellow mane and matching eyes, has a small jagged scar under her left eye.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a down-to-earth... earth pony Nightfang who helps patrol the walls of Razorback Fortress.
 
Born and raised in Stalliongrad, Aster and her parents moved to Manehatten at the age of ten to escape the growing number of foalnappings and the Councilerge's corrupt system, becoming a local Enforcer for large popular shops and businesses before joining the Night Guard. On a routine detail for a high-profile noble in Canterlot, she was ambushed by a gryphon assassin and stunned, left helpless. Before the gryphon could continue its assault, Steel Blitz, only a Night Guard recruit at the time, witnessed the display and tackled the assassin. The recruit, however, was no match for the gryphon, suffering mortal wounds to his side. While the assassin attempted to finish Blitz off, Aster recovered, utilizing her Gravity Lance to knock back the gryphon and proceeding to pulverize it's head into oblivion with her hoofboots. Since then, Aster has taken an oath to watching over Steel Blitz as a mentor, as well as paying off her debt of gratitude.
 
Exceptionally level-headed, Aster is usually unphased by the local oddities of the Everfree.. especially those that reside within the Fortress. Like most other earth ponies that have separated from Stalliongrad, Aster sees all ponies and species as equals.. although she can find her Nightclaw partner a little dimwitted, she still watches over the younger Guard fiercely.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a green tower shield outlined with cyan blue, a fuchsia flower with a yellow center in the middle, usually covered by her armor.
 
*****
STATUS: a Lunar Guard at Razorback Fortress, part of the wall patrol.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS: in a herd with Steel Blitz, lead stallion, and Natilda, lead mare.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Lunge+10, Resist Damage+4, Basic Intimidation+2, Basic Speech+2, Basic Movement+3, Expert Earth Smash+3, Expert Perception+5, Master Melee+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-BOSS-class Fearless: cannot be Intimidated or Demoralized normally.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Nightfang Heavy Armor (Armor Traits: X/X Enchantment Slots, Custom-Fit): provides +3DR. A personalized and custom fit set of heavy Lunar Guard armor, worn by those whom have specialized in defensive tactics.
 
******
UNIQUE ITEM:
-S-Rank Travel Futon: in all respects, this is a bright white, 3' wide, 5' long, and 1' deep travel futon, weighing approximately 120 pounds. Bought from Rasera, one of the rare traveling Cavalier Clan merchants from Japoneighsia, it bears exceptional comfort qualities despite it's unusually spartan appearance, and seems to retain more warmth than even silk mattresses. After some examination, Naliyna has concluded that it could only have been designed and hoof-sewn by a grandmaster clothier, particularly due to the unusually heavy, rare strain of a cotton-like Planar material almost solely used in it's construction along with the impeccably perfect stitching. When a living being sleeps on this futon for a minimum of 6 hours, they will wake with greater vigor than normal, granting +1 to any three physical, secondary, or tertiary rolls for the rest of their day or night cycle.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Gravity Lance: a 6' lance attached to the left side of her armor, for use 'only when needed'. Instead of the traditional piercing spike, the tip is a thick, blunted tungsten cylinder with a flat striking surface that houses a powerful Force elemental burst rune, meant for stunning and knocking back heavy targets, damaging hardened targets, or causing extensive structural damage to buildings or fortifications. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when utilized, and grants a [1d6+20] <Gravity Shock non-elemental attack once per Operation, also dealing double damage to structures or very large enemies.
 
-Nightfang Lightning Hoofboots: a customized quartet of otherwise standard Lunar Guard armored hoofboots, enchanted with a specialized, highly effective lightning elemental that can stun targets. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when used, and grants a [1d6+1] <Lightning elemental attack to both Aster's Melee and Earth Smash abilities.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
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Bren: 200HP, 2DR. Age: 34. Month of birth: November.
 
>> http://i.imgur.com/spUh6wx.png
 
*****
(Blunt, Brazen, Bold, Determined, Efficient, Hard-Working, Humorous, Intuitive, Thoughtful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a muscular, slightly larger than average full body ochre unicorn with salmon eyes, a straight, mid-body length rust colored mane that's left half-tangled and half-curled at all times, and an amusingly double twisted tail thanks to Mist Dancer's styling. Somehow, she manages to keep both clean. Bren's soft, highly feminine features combined with her uncharacteristic Western accent are an odd contrast, though the years of constant shouting and hard drinking have given her both a rough, commanding voice and the appearance of a rabble rouser. As of late, Bren has taken on a number of mareish touches to her personal look, and at least tries to keep herself from being covered in sawdust, rock chips, or slag whenever possible, though she often forgets to do so when a job is on the line.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: Bren, real name Tenbren, happens to be a hard-edged and somewhat stern unicorn, but is an excellent manager and work boss, treating her workers fairly and completing projects on time without fail. Knows the ins and outs of the construction business extraordinarily well, having created several hundred pro tem patents, such as they can be called on Tallus, mostly in design and structural engineering. Originally based in Canterlot, her team, a collection of expert craftsponies, is one of the best in Equestria, as they've been known to set up fully furnished houses in less than a day, with much larger and more complex structures, such as Razorback Fortress, taking a mere month to design, lay the groundwork for, build, and place.
 
As an old friend's favor, Denra recommended her to Princess Luna as Razorback's building manager, and has become considerably more involved in the Fortress's decision making processes as time has passed. Most notably, Bren has refused all requests from Spiral to set up permanent housing for the Guards and mercenaries, and is in the process of designing a small hospital, with a clinic addition of course, closer to the pagoda due to the number of injuries that the Operators and their allies have sustained over the course of their year on Tallus.
 
An incident involving Lont casually mentioning to Indurian that arranged marriage was normal on Tallus, and that Bren was to be his designated wife, has led to something much, MUCH more. Taking an active interested in the knight, Bren's eventual awareness of his dual existence barely perturbs her usually distrustful nature of unnatural beings, part in thanks to a certain (not) deity, as she recognizes him for much more than a killing machine or a mindless servant of one. Combined with their deepening knowledge of each other, Bren's outlook on Indurian has given her some insight into the strange, often dumbfounding lessons she received at the Canterlot College of Magic, particularly those on shared existences and, far more concerning, those detailing the summoning of unnatural beings.
 
While Bren's mass orgies have always been a point of contention amongst Razorback's more modest ponies, particularly to the combined horror and rage from Mercy, they are now far more shocked that she has ceased throwing them.. Mercy excluded, of course, instead devoting her thoughts and time whenever not working to Indurian more than anything else.
 
*****
FETISHES: too many to name!
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: an iron hammer striking three bent nails, the first pointed downwards at 180 degrees, the second pointing at 225 degrees, the third pointed at 270 degrees.
 
*****
STATUS: work boss for Razorback Fortress.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIP: engaged to Indurian.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Recovery+7, Expert Fearless+4, Expert Melee+5, Master Speech+4, Master Teleport+6, Master Translocation+6, Master Casting+7, Master Enchanting+7, Master Crafting+10, Master Engineering+10
 
*****
SUPPORT ACTION: "WHERE'D YA NEED SOME COVER AT?!" When a Razorback team requires additional fortification or disposable cover, one of the current members on the Operation may call upon Bren with a [1d6] <Summon the Engineer! roll to arrive and aid them.. that is, so long as they detail precisely what they need. Bren will then detail her team to quickly assemble the components required for a project, whether it be temporary barriers, walls, or to fortify a location for combat, and will either translocate herself along with the unicorn twins into position to begin building or complete the project for immediate delivery, and will provide additional Engineering support until her time is up, or remain for the rest of the Operation depending on the team's status. NOTE: Bren will not remain any longer than required if there are hostile Spectral, Planar, or Undead forces in opposition to the team.
 
*****
UNIQUE PAIRED ITEM: Cavallade Hoofband #1 of 2. Forged by Krinza using three triangular silver, platinum, and gold rods twisted into a perfect circle, the inside flattened and inscribed with 'Indurian', symbolizing the union between herself and Indurian.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Bright Amber: 75HP, 1DR (+1DR from Condensed Amber Plating). Age: Unknown.
 
*****
(Dislike: Unnatural/Efirates, Easily Confused, Nature Lover, Simple Minded)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a male Pred-Elk with a thin brown coat, the Amber giving off a yellow sheen against it. Has the same exact mystic blue eyes as Sparking Fleur, also roughly the same height as Sparky. From his hooves to the top of his head, Bright is 4'1" tall, not counting antlers; with antlers he is exactly 5'4" tall.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: one of many Predator Elks given sentience by Old Horn in a backfired plan to exterminate a spreading Efirate infestation. Unlike his eldest sister given sentience, Sparking Fleur, Bright Amber and the rest of his family do not have her innate desire to discover and learn. The next few months after their rebirth, Bright and the rest of the herd learned new, comfortable routines under Father Old Horn's guidance.
 
Sent to find out where Sparking Fleur had gone to, Bright Amber finally came into contact with Razorback, and through interactions with Ivan the Stalker and Soviet Comrade, Bright began to feel the need to understand more, just like his older sister, even though these feelings go against everything he has built up in the past. Now, however, he is torn between reverting to the safety of his predictable life of pre-Razorback contact, or to indulge in that small humble spark of humanity that has granted him a real life.
 
Roping Aster, Ivan and Comrade to help with exterminating a Grass Stalk flock so as to save the surrounding forestry from dying out and killing only one of the surprisingly giant flora birds did the Operators and their pony ally decide to leave the rest to Bright, who did not hold their decision against them, Amber himself using another Stalk breaking free from the ground to deal with the rest. Using the Amberine Armor's Attune capabilities, the Pred-Elk stunned the flying giants, crashing through the canopy of the Everfree and returning their excessive stored energy to the forest. Sustaining a broken leg and antler, Bright found that one of the Grass Stalks had survived, and on closer inspection noticed a pair of unique stone collars circling around it's elongated neck. Inspecting the stone collars and their precious gems, Bright was caught off guard as the odd Grass Stalk flew into the air, bringing him to a facility that was hidden within a tight cordon thicket of secoya trees, and after a cursory investigation used the same Grass Stalk to return to Razorback Fortress for further aid.
 
Taking Ivan and Bubba to the facility, the three explored it as thoroughly as possible.. albeit with clumsily results. Traversing a courtyard overflowing with caustic waters, Bright, Ivan and Bubba entered a ruined dome chamber where an amalgamation of smooth stone and ceramic pieces held together by vines rested, the 'thing' awakening, yet oddly placid towards the three, which went on to display territorial hostility to another 'thing' lurking in wait outside under the courtyards flooded surface, much as two predators meeting in the wild would fight. During the ensuing row, what little the courtyard had for solid ground collapsed, stranding everyone in the vine & ceramic golem-likes lair, with all three suffering acid burns. Showing a surprising mark of intelligence, the first being allowed itself to be used as a ramp so the three could escape through a hole in the dome's ceiling, where they crossed the roof of the facility to return to the Grass Stalk, flying back to base, afterwards Bubba strongly 'suggesting' for Bright to rest in the clinic. The Pred-Elk followed suit.
 
The experience has left Bright enamored to discover more about the facility, though has decided to stay within the Fortress for the next few months and it's surrounding forest, occasionally going off to visit Father Old Horn. His reasons for staying were that he could catch up to Sparking Fleur, and observe, with increasing interest, the expansion of the Fortress and how everyelk was involved in some way, making his chest fill with rising warmth at witnessing construction taking place in real time.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Movement+2, Expert Stealth+4, Expert Perception+4, Expert Melee+6
 
*****
SPECIES ABILITY: Expert Lightning Strike. A natural ability of all pred-elks, allowing them to absorb and store electrical discharges in their antlers, and release at an enemy with 3x [1d6+2] rolls. Predelks may charge this ability by +2 each turn, capping at +10.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITIES:
-Attune: grants the capacity to study an enemy in line of sight through Druidry with a [1d6+3] roll, allowing Bright to attune his skills against specific creatures, gaining additional benefits when in combat, though this requires 100 points of Research in order to take effect. While using Attune, Bright Amber is unable to utilize the other two abilities granted by his armor. Currently attuned to: Efirates & Grass Stalks.
 
-Golden Break: a golden burst of light emitted from the Amberine Armor that washes over an opponent, sapping them of their vitality for a short period of time. Once per Operation, roll [1d6] and [1d6+3], the first result lasting that number of turns, the second result being the amount of HP drained each turn.
 
-Golden Resilience: a bright amber pulse produced from the Amberine Armor, protecting the wearer for a short period of time. Once per operation, roll [1d6] and [1d6+3], the first result lasting that number of turns, the second result being the amount of additional DR gained.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Condensed Amberine Armour: provides +1DR, grants the Attune, Golden Break, and Golden Resilience abilities. A set of full body plate armor made from condensed amber, held together by naturally elastic materials.. it obviously doesn't offer much protection. The amber itself is imbued with nature magic to allow Bright the abilities to weaken enemies, and to protect it's wearer from specific enemy species, once attuned to.
 
 
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Broken Hoof, Light Lancer Master-Captain of the Tower Guardians: 300HP, 3DR (+5DR from Silverine Lancer Armor). Age: 44. Month of birth: December.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: unknown, as she never takes off her armor, though she has mentioned that her mane is a patchwork of three colors, same for her eyes, while her coat is made up of eight different shades.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. A deserter of the Councilierge-backed forces attacking Razorback Fortress, Broken Hoof was the Tower Guard's contact to Spiral, sending him the means to hunt down Vapid Call in his encampment. Accepting his offer of intermediary between Canterlot's Guard members and the Tower Guard after the Tyrant and Sunglobes were destroyed, she has come to accept the Marquis' agreement, sharing information on Councilierge activities to Razorback and their allies, as well as commanding the night patrol... whenever they can get a word in edgewise. Visits the graves of the Watch and Tower Guard members buried by Dante before dusk each night without fail.
 
*****
STATUS: the highest ranking military member dedicated to protecting the Fortress and it's inhabitants. Also the de facto, if neutral and somewhat evasive, commander of the Guards stationed at Razorback Fortress.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Neutral-friendly to the Operators.
-Moderately friendly to the rest of the Fortress's inhabitants.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Mind's Eye+6, Mind's Vortex+6, Lunge+12, Basic Knock+3, Basic Perception+4, Expert Speech+3, Expert Movement+5, Expert Alchemy+6, Expert Crafting+8, Expert Smithing+8, Expert Resist Damage+10, Master Earth Shatter+6, Master Psion+9, Master Sunken State+9, Master Melee+11
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Silverine Master-Captain Lancer Armor (Armor Traits: 2/3 Enchantment Slots, Artifact, Custom-Fit, Psion-Forged): provides +5DR. A rounded, full body segmented plate armor made from a hardened alloy of silver and mythril, allowing it to remain lighter than most armors of it's class, though for obvious reasons it does not fare well against certain dangers. Fitted with fifteen layers of silk padding and custom segmented for nearly perfect stages of rapid movement, this armor is created for, and only issued to, Tower Guard Master-Captains that have proven their worth and dedication.
 
*****
UNIQUE RELIC:
-Honor Standard of the Watch: a 4' tall blackened and sealed ironwood pole bearing the Watch Guard's standard: a silver eye with a black pupil gazing downwards, three blue water drops suspended above the eye, emblazoned on a green shield composed of a thick, sealed, and psion-warded cotton. Taken from Stalliongrad's Industrial District by Twisted Wing during an Operation to recover human weaponry, it was formerly kept in Spiral's lab for safekeeping, but was turned over to Broken Hoof during the Fortress's expansion in the second year of spring. Although this standard is definitely not an original from the Dynasty era, Dancing Eyes has confirmed it was created by a famed Tower Guard Master-General some time after Stalliongrad was founded. When borne by a living being of the Empress's Faction, an oath of of "VICTORY OR DEATH FOR OUR HONOR" is made using a [1d6] roll, the result being the number of turns any Ally within sight of the Standard gains +1 to all rolls, excluding offensive elemental attacks.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Silverine Lance (Weapon Traits: 2/3 Enchantment Slots, Artifact, Custom-Fit, Psion-Forged): a custom made 9' long silverine lance, the traditional piercing tip replaced with a tiny emeraldine eye, the rest of it's impressive and beautiful washed length measuring only 3" in diameter. The grandmaster psion crafters of the Tower Guard hollow forge these lances, one at a time, in order to identify and correct any and all unwanted structural flaws. Once satisfied that the weapon is perfect, an inner core of a barely substantial material, composed during a secretive process, is used to fill the lance, rendering it oddly impervious to damage. The emeraldine eye is actually a powerful Impact Seal created by the master Tower Guard crafters, the process of creating one usually taking a month. Adds +3 to all Melee rolls and grants a [1d6+20] <Impact Seal non-elemental attack that deals double damage against hardened targets and structures.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Boris the Belligerent, Golem: 20HP, 2DR. Age: >2 years. Month of creation: XX.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a 1-foot tall, rounded and dirty white marble/light brown golem, two glowing light blue eyes set in his head and a core in the center of his chest.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a golem created by Zoo from a potato, two knives, and some 'clothing'. He was reshaped, given a basic mind and programming by Spiral to be loyal only to Zoo. Currently in testing phase, although Denra has been highly eager to improve Boris's state of existence.. if Zoo ever leaves his cavern again, that is.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Melee, Perception, Speech, Stealth, Basic Dance Master
 
 
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Caliya: 180HP, 3DR. Age: 39. Month of birth: May.
 
*****
(Ambusher, Calm, Efficient, Flesh Eater, Hunter, Quick, Scarred, Stealthy, Veteran: Stealth/Wilderness Survival)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a ragged, wiry, minorly insane earth pony with a shaggy, long charcoal grey coat, having been thoroughly burnt during a prairie fire a year before the Operators arrived. From the years he spent carrying Risk, Caliya's teeth underwent minor reconstruction, elongating and becoming much sharper, while his physiology mutated to the point of becoming a true omnivore, giving him a more predatorial appearance and allowing him to eat flesh without ill effects. Due to the separation from the Eldritch weapon Caliya has regained the ability to consume normal foods.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. A highly capable and stealthy ambusher, Caliya tracks his enemies through scent and sound, keeping his eyes closed unless attacking. Caliya's eyes are Weak to light, as he does not travel during the day, nor can he.
 
The first attempt to recover a trio of power crystals from the Crystal Empire Waypoint Station was met with complete disaster, as Clemency, leading three rookies, returned unscathed after drawing his attention, while the other three bore the brunt of Caliya's Night Blade assaults, mostly due to little teamwork.
 
The Operators returned a week later on the first day of winter to recover the crystals, necessary for warming and lighting their in-progress Fortress. Zoo managed to calm Caliya with the Games long enough to allow his awareness to return, though just enough to let the Operators trade two heat stones for the power crystals and his unique blade for one of Clemency's kukri's. Recovering most of his former vitality after both challenges, and since left alone he followed the train to the Fortress over the course of several weeks, regaining significant pieces of his sanity while hunting for food and taking shelter where he could.
 
Deciding to attempt a trade with a silver-coated rabbit in an attempt to gain access to, and apologize to those he's harmed, Zoo, after some deliberation, accepted the trade and indicated Boris as Caliya's guide to the Fortress and it's inhabitants. With his outlook on the future dim concerning his actions from before, Caliya accepted the role of a hunter in the Everfree, silently accepting that his best option was removing dangers before they had a chance to develop, much like his actions from before.
 
Becoming a close friend to Allys during their time off periods, the two found each other agreeably companionable due to their twinned lack of socialization, and since then began spending more time together, though Caliya's awkwardness about his physical appearance and scars meant he showed off as little as possible. As Caliya has already explained to Tipper, Allys's newfound interest became much more than friendship, and while he's quite happy to be with her, he does have several doubts as to his mutations possibly being passed on to their foal (or foals).
 
Taking his duties much more seriously during Razorback's second winter, Caliya was less than enthused to discover Spiral's absence meant vastly more time spent patrolling around the Everfree, and has come to both severely dislike the unnatural fauna, and enjoy the benefits of having luxurious furs to sleep on. Allys, however, steadfastly continues making predatory puns, much to his great annoyance and indignation.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: burnt away.
 
*****
STATUS: formerly lurked the clearing of the Fortress. Invited in by Zoo and relearning how to interact with others. Now patrols outside the Fortress constantly, clearing out any unwanted creatures.. doing so MUCH more carefully these days, however, as he didn't enjoy being under Tipper's constant watch for a month while recovering from a shattered rear leg.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Allys: very close friend and lover to.
-Operators: hesitant towards due to his less than friendly actions.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Resist Damage+4, Basic Speech+1, Basic Fearless+3, Expert Perception/Wilderness Survival+4, Expert Tracking+4, Expert Ambush+4, Expert Movement+5, Expert Stealth+4, Master Melee+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Instinctual Terror: recovering his mental prowess during his extended stay with Razorback, Caliya has thought upon his actions since losing his Marks, and has acknowledged that using his learned ability to scare living beings is more useful than simply trying to forget his changed nature. Twice per Operation, Caliya may attempt to Terrify a living being smaller than a minotaur with 2x [1d6+1] rolls, and upon achieving a 6 or higher, his target may become immobilized in fear, flee in panic, or even pass out from sheer fright. Against ponies or humans, however, Caliya must add +1 to all Terrify rolls due to his rather unique, close knowledge.
 
-Tempered Rage. Caliya's years spent surviving the Imperial plains around the Crystal Waypoint Station forced him to persevere against vastly stronger opponents, the travels during this period of insanity strengthening his physical abilities and mental willpower immensely. As a result of his close friendship with Allys, Caliya has learned to redirect and channel his once frustrating emotions properly, allowing him to tap into his resolve, temporarily bypassing his physical and mental limitations with a [1d6+1] roll, though Caliya must have taken a minimum of 40HP damage in order to activate. When activated, adds +1 to all Fearless and Melee rolls on a 6 or higher result.
 
*****
SUPPORT ACTION: "Be quiet and tell me where the prey is!" When a Razorback team requires an expert in Melee combat and Stealth, or to track a difficult to locate target, one of the current members on the Operation may call upon Caliya with a [1d6] <Summon the Hunter! roll to arrive and aid them. Caliya will arrive as quickly as possible, ambushing targets of opportunity along the way until his time is up, and will relieve the Ally/Companion if incapable of hunting for the rest of the Operation, or if heavily injured. NOTE: Caliya will not engage hostile Elemental, Otherworldly, or Undead forces, and will leave automatically if any of the three are encountered, though he will remain and potentially dismiss the current Ally/Companion if they are incapable of Tracking or heavy Melee.
 
*****
PERSONAL WEAPON:
-Clemency's Kukri. Once owned by Clemency, it was traded for the Night Blade formerly in Caliya's possession. The blade is well worn and keenly sharpened at all times, while the handle was modified by Caliya, then Krinza, to firmly bite and hold on to. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when used.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Dancing Eyes, Primal Psion: 400HP, 4DR (+2DR from Interlocking Rings). Age: 47. Month of birth: January.
 
*****
(ELITE: Combat/Psion, Fearless, Focused, Homosexual Sadomasochist, Intellectual, Passive-Aggressive, Powerful, Savant, Scarred, Severe Addiction: Painkillers, Veterancy: Alchemy/Chemistry, Willful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a large, physically imposing dark sapphire-coated earth pony mare with regal blue hooves and cool sapphire blue eyes. Covered in several thousand rings pierced through her coat, the metals and materials ranging from copper to iron, mythril, diamondine and more. Numerous designs can formed with the rings, most notably birds, though can be changed to suit her whims.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: one of a few primal psions, Dancing Eyes' abilities are naturally advanced, far beyond the scale of most talented and finely tuned earth ponies, making her physical and mental skills highly formidable, even against the leaders of most countries and nations on Tallus. While she has an extreme personal disdain to males of any species, her professional demeanor sometimes overrides that particular mental quirk, except during winter or under stress. Known only to a few, Dancing Eyes is a master craftspony, able to carve immaculate, flawless figurines from semi-precious and precious gems with intense ease, one of her collections now stored in Alpha Locker.
 
A former member of the Tower Guard, Stalliongrad's elite all earth pony unit of master psions, her history is well buried under the intrigue of the times. With extensive knowledge in the fields of alchemy and chemistry, she is able to produce numerous drugs to enhance her own physical and mental capabilities, though became addicted from adding painkillers to combat the side-effects, though she can create stable, lesser versions without said side-effects. It's rumored that most of the combat drugs on Tallus are directly attributed to her.
 
During the attempt to disrupt and spy on the operations of Razorback Fortress, Dancing Eyes created a Mind's Eye and Mind's Vortex to disrupt Pella, Belltower, Serra, and Allys, the four easiest targets for her to remove self-control and self-command from. After the eye was destroyed, Dante's use of the Cretalva enchantment on his blade was transmitted through the Vortex, allowing the mystical poison to spread across her body and through her mind, leaving her in agony and entirely useless for several days.
 
Upon being found in a nearly crippled state in her residence in Stalliongrad, which was promptly burned down afterwards, Dancing Eyes was easily captured and transferred to the Fortress, notably by Serra and Hollow, the first of which made a deal to the second to contain the potent psion in the Nest. Taking Discord's advice from earlier to heart, the pair then found that Dancing Eyes has an oddly tremendous fear of snakes.
 
Virtually locked in the Nest for some time, during a surprise 'visit' by Empress Silver, on unofficial business,  Dancing Eyes was given the opportunity to face her deepest fears, the Empress nonchalantly stating that any earth pony, or pony nonetheless, can be given a second chance. The former leader then left her descendant with an original copy of the Empress's book on respect and understanding, written before the Dynasty era with notes on her personal and professional failures during exile. After thoroughly reading and understanding the flaws of Silver's attempted reign, Dancing Eyes has taken a knowledgeable stance of self-disgust and regret, severely rethinking her actions over the past ten years.
 
Considering Anon's and Jeff's words about her willingness to suffer punishment, she is reluctant to pursue self-retribution and vindication any further, seeing such as a waste of time and energy. While she has acknowledged that her actions have driven Serra from the Fortress, Dancing Eyes is torn between her loyalty as an honorable prisoner of war and the ideology of her former rank as a Tower Guard Master-Captain. Thinking through the predicament, Dancing Eyes chose to take a neutral vow, giving her personal oath of (as much as possible) non-hostile compliance, furthermore stating that she would not try to leave should the opportunity present itself.
 
In Razorback's second winter, Dancing Eyes had continued to elude heatstones, not knowing quite what they were or how they worked, and paid for it greatly, the rings covering her coat freezing after only a couple minutes outdoors, making her far more miserable and irritated than normal. Interrupted by Dragon King Velkruz shattering the Fortress's shield to deliver three of Frost King Gelvran's scales, Dancing Eyes decided to take a break from reading, leaving the library in a sour mood and vowing to, at the very least, pound either Spiral or Twisted Wing into paste, ensuring one of them was constantly available to take care of such odd situations should they survive.
 
Pushing the Frost Dragon's scales into the pagoda, and ordering them to be sent off, she was set upon by Paredolia wanting to know the status of the Councilierge's activity. Lying down to check her temper and contemplate for several minutes, Dancing Eyes acknowledged that her circumstance wasn't terrible, all events considered, and threw her trademark acid humor at him, not realizing he had little knowledge of the Councilierge. Hollow's arrival and gift of a heatstone checked her irritation once more, but the annoyance while being in the cold was too much, and decided to teach him a lesson, facing faced Paredolia and muttering the phrase: "I'm going to rape you", with sincere, demoralizing intent. Knocking him down, she proceeded to grind herself on his mask, and during the process shouted for Hollow to, literally, beat her ass with a steel bench, to which he obliged. Finishing, and utterly startled by the arrival of numerous Crystal ponies, Dancing Eyes decided to leave as quickly as possible, seeking out Krinza in the workshop to turn her heatstone and another into as many rings as possible, though nopony is sure of who pierced them to her.
 
When Spiral left the Fortress to parts unknown, Dancing Eyes became greatly irritated at the derelict state of the library, taking it upon herself to act as librarian, much to Roust's disdain. Greatly surprised at being able to lift a block of wood one night while explaining her skill in carving to Malyne, she's discovered that the demi-sentient will only interdict her psionic abilities if they would effect another being or the Fortress itself. Seeing the fuzzy batfoal's curiousity and amazement as completely benign (and terribly adorable), Dancing Eyes continues to, quietly, teach her the arts of crafting and carving. She continues to sort, order, and organize books without concern, but as of yet hasn't realized Tipper is constantly watching with belated amusement, while Hodch dismisses the Primal Psion's actions entirely, stating that he has neither reason fear her, nor considers her a potential danger.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: unknown, cannot be seen.
 
*****
STATUS: formerly a Master-Captain Tower Guard, turned assassin at some point in the past. Now a P.O.W. at Razorback Fortress, spending her time as a librarian, or at the fountain to relax.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Mind's Eye+6, Mind's Vortex+6, Resist Damage+10, Lunge+17, Basic Demoralize+3, Basic Speech+4, Expert Movement+6, Master Research+6, Master Alchemy+6, Master Creativity+8, Master Illusionary+8, Master Crafting+10, Grandmaster Melee+16, Grandmaster Psion+20
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-BOSS-class Fearless: Dancing Eyes cannot be Intimidated or Demoralized normally.
 
-Master Shattering Earth: once every fourth turn, Dancing Eyes may use her psionic abilities to dramatically increase her body's concussive power, performing a supremely effective frontal stomp that deals damage to all ground based enemies in a 180' radius once every fourth turn using 4x [1d6+10] rolls, also causing painful, stunning tremors to the legs, typically rendering her opponents immobile.
 
-Master Shattering Stomp: heightening the effects of her already impressive strength, Dancing Eyes may empower herself with a short, controlled aura of finely honed psionic flux, targeting and severely damaging an opponent's weapon or armor with 4x [1d6+10] rolls, or in certain cases, outright destroying said equipment, all without harming her enemy.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Master Evolving Defenses. A long-learned ability that grants Dancing Eyes a layer of automatic defenses beyond her normal skills, allowing her to shift, change, and maintain the rings pierced across her body with psionic wards of protection, giving her the capacity to adapt to all sources of damage from a SINGLE selected target's melee or ranged weaponry, elemental attacks, and absorb other effects such as stuns and crippling strikes. Roll 4x [1d6+10], total results -2 for each roll are gained as temporary & fragile DR for that turn against the target Dancing Eyes has selected, while also gaining an additional +1 for each max critical rolled, up to a maximum of +20, essentially becoming near-invulnerable to harm against most selected opponents.
 
*****
ITEMS:
-60x immaculate carved pony figurines, currently stored in Alpha Locker.
 
-Crate of Flawed Gems: a wooden slat & nailed crate containing approximately 16 pounds of non-tradeable gems. Currently being used to teach Malyne how to carve.
 
*****
UNIQUE... ARMOR? ....SURE WHY NOT:
-Interlocking Rings: provides +2DR and negates blunt trauma. Roughly 5,000 interlocking metal rings: aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, iron, steel, cobalt, emeraldine, rubynine, sapphirine, titanium, tungsten, mythril, kanpri, diamondine, and crystalline Empire heatstone rings are pierced across her entire body, forming a flowing, somewhat lightweight coat of primary 'armor' that dissipates the majority of blunt force trauma.
 
*****
UNIQUE RELIC:
-Greeting Book, Original: the first, and only, book written by Silver, bound in valo bark and written in silver ink on white vellum sheaf paper, long before she became the Empress. Created with the intention of familiarizing and expanding the trust of all sentient species with and towards each other, countless translated copies circulated around Tallus during the Dynasty Eras, leading to remarkably long lasting agreements and cooperation of formerly bitter antagonistic species towards each other. Whether or not all other copies of this book were destroyed by the Nightmare in retaliation for her hostile takeovers of certain races as the Empress is unknown, yet Silver safeguarded this original, herself unsure of why she was protecting this one piece of her past so strongly. Giving the original to Dancing Eyes after allowing the primal psion to face her innermost fears, Silver made no mention of what she should look for, leaving her to attempt the arduous task of understanding the simple, yet naively complex, intricacies of cross-species relationships on her own. Adds +1 to all non-combat rolls when dealing with Tallus natives.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Denra: 120HP, 2DR. Age: unknown. Month of birth: September.
 
*****
(Aggressive, Blunt, Diplomat, Hyper-Efficient, Mercenary, Natural Speaker, Playcolt, Savant, Scarred, Smooth Talker, Veterancy: Casting/Combat/Diplomacy)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a dapper, well groomed and perpetually wavy coated unicorn with light yellow eyes and a bright citrine mane, possibly in his late 40's or early 50's. Carries a clean, thin scar above and below his left eye, caused by a gryphon mercenary. Also wears a bronze horn ring that does not disintegrate under extensive use of casting.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: from his early years, Denra was talkative, knowledgeable, and always curious, eager to learn more about the world, developing a repertoire of social skills that would serve him well later on. Entering the Young Service League, an Equestrian organization dedicated to training diplomats, at the age of 14, Denra became prominent for his easy going nature and remarkable consistency in developing mutually beneficial agreements, training that would serve him very well throughout his life. Around this period he became something of a playcolt due to his silver-tongue (in more ways than one, most likely), soliciting the attentions of numerous mares. Later on, Denra would state that he has at least 12 mares in his herd, most of a prestigious nature, though several are noted to be purely political.
 
While most of Denra's diplomatic life and assignments have been kept quiet, or sealed by royal edict, he was Princess Celestia's premier VIP for at least 25 years, considering his knowledge of and history with Twisted Wing. Maintaining much of his standing amongst Canterlot, Las Pegasus, the Empire, Saddle Arabia, the Gryphon Kingdoms, and the Minotaur Hegemony, he preferred to keep favors on hoof rather than use them as bargaining chips or collateral, realizing that he may need them later should the Tyrant emerge in his lifetime. At some point, he developed a great disdain towards both Stalliongrad and Las Pegasus; the latter, however, he eventually settled with after meeting Lucky, yet keeps the former in mind at all times.
 
Right before Razorback Company arrived, Denra happily accepted Princess Celestia's assignment to renew relations with Equestrian cities and towns, yet was disturbed by a sudden request to reach Old Canterlot while 'relaxing' in Las Pegasus. Reading the diplomatic record over, he was morbidly curious, and considerably distressed, as to why two smaller Ferron clan offshoots had taken to raiding villages near that section of the Old Everfree Forest. Shrugging off the request, he was soon surprised by Twisted Wing, alive and mostly well, waltzing into his room with her trademark, sarcastically pleased grin. Reminiscing for the next several days, Denra made the offer to the former General of traveling along with him, knowing that her Lunar faction heritage would likely calm tensions, to which she accepted, setting out from Las Pegasus back to Canterlot for supplies and fuel, the pair enjoying each other's renewed company.
 
Nearing the halfway station of Old Canterlot, an encounter with an annoying, loudly singing creature calling itself a Hyfalgryph, a blend of dragon, gryphon, hippo, and other known species, occurred. Confused, but most importantly irritated, at the Otherworldly being's request for a musical duel, Denra's normally well kept temper flared, and with Twisted Wing's bloodymindedness to back him up, they decided to, at the minimum, tear the Hyfalgryph's tongue out, and at best, kill it. Slowly. Their efforts, unfortunately for them and fortunately for the Hyfalgryph, were completely futile.
 
Beaten down the first day by the creature's powerful, snark-laden sonic attacks, the duo limped back to the train, sore and vengeful at their failure to get rid of the nuisance. After five morale crushing ambushes, and two of their own, the first involving using pieces of the train as projectiles, the last attempting to shove a tree down the Hyfalgrpyh's throat, the pair were forced to concede utter defeat at it's proclamation: their six chances were long gone, and it would not allow them to pass for any reason. Sending a message to Celestia about the situation, Denra ordered the train back to Canterlot for repairs, himself departing to Manehattan to recuperate.
 
Three days later, Denra, jolted awake by a package sent directly from Princess Celestia while at one of his more lavish herdmate's homes, puzzled at his sovereign's mentions of a group of bipedal, Otherworldly mercenaries. Wanting little more than to prevent the possibility of inter-clan conflict in the Everfree potentially spreading eslewhere, he studied her notes on the hu`um thoroughly, then delivered a diplomatic message of assent to the Sun Princess, afterwards calling on Twisted Wing to go along just in case this first meeting turned out poorly.
 
Translocating Twisted to the buffet car, then himself to the main, Denra's meeting and greeting the members of Razorback on the newly repaired VIP train during an immediate approach by the Hyfalgryph further exacerbated his glum mood. Reluctant to offer a hoof to help, in part due to his injuries, he was both dumbfounded and concerned at the Operators' weaponry, unsure why Celestia had hired such strange beings.
 
Despite Gas Man's encouraging on the situation and the Hyfalgryph being driven off, some part of him felt that Celestia had made the wrong decision, but chose to allow Razorback to accompany him to Old Canterlot, seeing the odd lot as mostly harmless enough that he wouldn't have to get involved. When Twisted Wing decided to meet the Operators herself, even though he'd stated for her to remain hidden away, Denra chose to keep quiet on their shared history, brushing off their questions with practiced ease from years of political gambling. Even though he was forced to trap her momentarily in order to keep the illusion, he's quite glad she hasn't shoved a hoof in his ass for his admitted mistake.
 
Unable to find the hostile Ferron clan upon the arrival at Old Canterlot, and upon studying the castle, Denra's dim, mostly underused arcane senses warned him of danger, stoically refusing to enter the decrepit former capital and sending Twisted a short message for her to stay far away. Thoroughly disheartened and angry at the events that occurred in Old Canterlot, Denra became bitter towards Celestia's orders, realizing that the Tyrant's actions, while subdued for many generations, continued to tear at his people. Knowing that the Solar alicorn would be politically crippled without his services, he would later pen a short diplomatic message to whom he saw as his corrupt former sovereign, stating his immediate resignation.
 
Traveling with Razorback to New Canterlot, it was quite apparent to all that Denra was prone to offering overwhelming amounts of advice and details of Tallus when questioned, enjoying and hoofing out fine Empire cigars along the way, though none had any inkling of his newfound agenda. At the time even small amounts of alcohol would cause him to become hostile and intimidating, as well as violently ill, one fact that didn't escape Filth. Later on, however, he would gain a taste for gryphon black ales and beers, especially during drinking contests.
 
Offering diplomatic 'assignments' (technically outside of his official authority) when it suited him, Denra instructed Razorback to visit the Hive, home of the Changelings and their leader, Queen Chrysalis, and present his diplomatic badge of office as proof of honorable conduct. Pleased at the meeting's highly positive outcome and potential ramifications, he then stated a group should visit the reclusive Marquis du Spiral, well known for his knowledge and disgust at the majority of the Solar faction's activities. Overhearing the encounter with the acid Naghtmare, the now-former diplomat considered his options coolly, knowing that he could easily convince the elemental unicorn into pulling nobles across Tallus to his cause. Realizing an alliance between at least two of the three sisters could easily disrupt and counter a resurgence of the Tyrant, before arriving at Canterlot Denra requested the Operators take on a very specific mission: meet Princess Cadence in the Empire, and ask for a cessation of hostilities between her and the Hive.
 
Returning to Canterlot, Denra opted to make an unofficial visit to Princess Luna, intent on gaining her favor by bargaining one of the less presentable mercenaries Operators to serve as a go-between for Razorback and Canterlot. Satisfied that the Nightmare had partially agreed to the proposition, he left the Lunar Sanctum, heading to Celestia's private meeting room. Discovering the Solar Tyrant's resurgence in full swing, he could do little except watch on, terrified. Dive-bombed out of the room by Serra, he recognized his only course of action was to leave, unwillingly giving the Night Princess space to contain her sister's aftermath.
 
Shocked, unable, and unwilling to reconcile or attempt to process what he had witnessed, the former diplomat stumbled through the streets of Canterlot for the rest of the night. As dawn broke, he realized that even the best laid plans never survive contact with the enemy, no matter whom it was. Immediately leaving Equestria for the Gryphon Kingdoms by using one of his favors and requesting service as a mercenary from the Overking, he became a free agent while waiting out any possible repercussions.
 
Adapting well to his new mercenary life in the employ of Warlords and the Overking, when not visiting his herdmates Denra began developing an aggressive, effective, and most importantly, efficient form of ranged combat based around long range, large scale elemental lance area-denial tactics, followed up by teleport-assisted melee charges and counters were his opposition, as he puts it, 'unreceptive to negotiation'. Completing well over two hundred contracts, he mostly relied on survival and medical information from his time in the League, as well as what had been learned from the many diplomats and leaders he had spoken with, amassing a fairly large war chest of his own. Realizing he'd spent long enough in the hard, cold lands, Denra decided to temporarily halt his mercenary work, and planned for a leisurely trip to Razorback Fortress, giving the Overking his deepest thanks and gratitude for his allowances.
 
Upon his arrival, the ponies and factions that had gathered to support Razorback were similar enough to his estimates on possible interspecies alliances that he determined his presence wasn't really necessary, nonetheless remaining for some time to help out around the base, occasionally sending Operators off to complete vital tasks, or simply to keep them busy at whim.
 
At some point, an odd letter stamped with Luna's Mark and delivered by translocation instructed him to send a small team to the Starborn's Memorial Village, a large town that had been built on the northern edge of the Old Canterlot Forest, to find and deal with a Revenant. Annoyed that the team was unable to find their target, he was quite pleased at their handling of the situation, and even more so upon learning of the Flame Naghtmare that was discovered, then returned to Princess Luna's ownership.
 
Having co-opted most of the ponies to aid him in transporting the entirety of Skykeep's armor, weapons, and miscellanea after Mercy returned to spread the news of it's existence, Denra has chosen to spend more time at the Fortress, leaving for two or three days each week to keep his wide flung relationships stable. Whenever he's not busy otherwise, Denra has been aiding Naliyna and Hodch in studying and cataloging the Enclave's contents, cracking open lockboxes, filing requests for information across Tallus, as well as taking Behemoth around Equestria, returning relics to their owners, though he has sworn that Behemoth has a mind of it's own.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: an iron sword and quill crossed over a sheaf of white parchment, the top and bottom rolled once.
 
*****
STATUS: former VIP diplomat to Princess Celestia. Resigned neutrally before the Resurgence, then became a mercenary for the Overking, using his diplomatic and offensive skills around the Gryphon Kingdoms. Takes refuge in the Enclave, identifying personal and faction possessions, returning them whenever able.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Married to numerous mares, but to whom (or how many) is unknown.
-Was friends with an Operator, but carries the stigma of his death with him.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Intimidation+4, Expert Alchemy+4, Expert Appraisal+4, Expert Research+4, Expert WIlderness Survival+4, Expert Melee+7, Master Speech+5, Master Teleport+6, Master Translocate+6, Master Elemental Lance+8, Master Split-Casting+9
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Enhanced Golem Mastery: allows Denra to create, or enhance, a golem's inherent programmable intellect to form higher thought processes, eventually capable of developing tactics, autonomy, and potentially true sentience, with 2x [1d6+21] rolls.
 
-Master Golem Shaping: allows Denra to shape and modify a golem's body, allowing for additional combat, supportive, or proprietary functions with 4x [1d6+12] rolls.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Master Frost King's Blades. Twice per Operation, Denra is able to cast an ancient spell, forming from one to four ice blades from water in the local area, selectively varying the length, shape, density, and fragility as he sees fit with 4x [1d6+20] rolls. The blades are able to track designated targets, albeit somewhat slowly, even without line of sight. After striking a target or missing their performance degrades rapidly, each suffering a -5 penalty per turn; the Frost Blades will last 3 turns or until being destroyed, and while controlling them Denra is incapable of taking any other actions.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Helping Hoof, 80HP, 2DR. Age: 23. Month of Birth: October.
 
*****
(Thoughtful, Teacher, Talkative, Savant, Logical, Eidetic Memory)
 
*****
Appearance: a unicorn of truly large proportions, being bigger than the average Earth Pony. A pale green coat and bright, inquisitive green eyes show out from under a barely kempt straw colored mullet-mane. He’s not fat, but being big for his size he appears a little awkward, and due to his generally sedentary nature is a bit doughy around the middle.
 
*****
STATUS: not long ago, Helping Hoof was a student at the Canterlot College of Magic. Always inquisitive and experimental, the unicorn constantly had his nose in a book, and as such has an exceedingly vast array of knowledge and principles to work with. At school he found that being over-prepared with knowledge simply made life easier, and as such, he always thinks he has an answer. While it might not be THE answer, it will, at least, be one.
 
In some circles, he’s thought of as a know-it-all and awkward, but his aptitude and generally enthusiastic attitude made him stand out. Spiral requested his presence at Razorback to continue his education, and give him practical experience working in the field. His generally helpful attitude and aptitude for completing tasks helped him stand out, and likely influenced Spiral's decision, out of all his students.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a spiraling horn pointed straight up, crossed with a wrench and an Alembic.
 
*****
STATUS: a research and engineering Intern at the fortress in charge of handling routine Operator complaints, under contract.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Melee+2, Basic Chemistry+4, Basic Enchanting+5, Expert Crafting+5, Expert Research+6, Expert Casting+7, Expert Alchemy+7
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-College Notebooks: a transcribed copy in shorthoof of Spiral’s works on Alchemy and transmutable processes, along with Helping Hoof’s own independent research. Only readable by Helping Hoof, or those who have spent considerable time learning to read his unique writing style. Grants either a [1d6+8] <Alchemical Compendium roll for Alchemy, or a [1d6+8] <Eidetic Fundamentals roll for Crafting.
 
-Crystal Empire Chemistry Kit: a series of eccentric, high grade tools and devices from the Crystal Empire, inscribed with transient runes that grants a [1d6+8] <Crystal Alchemy roll when used in an alchemy lab.
 
-Greensteel Horn-Ring: a custom fit horn-ring that grants +2 to all Alchemy rolls when worn.
 
-Tryptarch Tonics: a meticulously labeled case of vials that contain regenerating stores of common and uncommon chemical and alchemical reagents. Grants a [1d6+6] <Prepared Reagents roll, and adds +2 to all rolls when attempting to identify unknown substances and their uses.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Hodch, Starborn Nightblade: 120HP, 1DR. Age: 42. Month of birth: June.
 
*****
(Calm, Cool-Natured, Eidetic Memory, Elite: Casting, Inquisitive, Minor Psychosis: Constant Study, Natural Caster, Natural Speaker, Savant, Teacher, Veterancy: Combat)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a critically inquisitive dark purple unicorn with shallow purple eyes, pupils are a light black. Carries few scars on his coat, of which those he does have are on his chest. Most notably however, he has a remarkable number of permanent damage marks on the underpads of his hooves.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a long time Lunar faction member, one of the few with a sealed history, Hodch is a friendly, but formidable, teacher when dealing with cheaters or slackers at Canterlot's prestigious College of Magic, and is the only Nightblade AND member of the Starborn with the distinction of being able to enter the Lunar and Citadel Armories at will, without being stopped or questioned.
 
While he doesn't seem to have any particularly strong traits when compared to most unicorn Nightblades, he more than makes up for his shortcomings with an unusually high amount of casting and esoteric knowledge, as well as history, archaeology, enchanting, smithing & crafting techniques.. the list is pretty much endless. It also helps that Hodch has an instinctive understanding of event manipulation and socio-political ramifications, albeit he tends to spend very little time on either of those matters. Under normal circumstances, it's unusual to hear him drop his even tempered teacher's persona, though does have an amiable, relaxed nature when speaking to those he understands or knows well.
 
Has an adopted, hazy purple batpony daughter that 'works' as the Moor Basin village's hostel clerk, whenever she isn't sleeping 23 hours a day, and was moderately surprised to find that Jeff may (or may not) have inspired his daughter as she has been taking her duties more seriously as of late, often leaving to visit her for several hours each day, and to catch up on news in the Basin.
 
Formerly, Hodch could only be reached at night, either through the Canterlot College of Magic or the Nightblade's Den, a small floating cloud home ten miles south of Canterlot, though has decided to relocate to Razorback Fortress some time ago due to the number of historical relics that have been recovered, particularly a complete set of Duelist's Armor, fawning over it for several hours, and continues to warily study the strange items that have been pulled from the Everfree.
 
Taking note of Jeff's deepened relationship with Belltower, Hodch was admittedly reluctant to accept the pairing, though he has come to understand, and somewhat like, the mostly amiable humans of Razorback. Riding along with Jeff after Twisted Wing suggested clearing the Crag Moors, a rather nasty location in the northern section of the Deep Moors, Hodch decided that the Operators, while strange in manners and weaponry, were of little harm to the Lunar faction, accepting Belltower's statement that he was trustworthy, though due to their intrinsic value on Tallus considers it his duty to both keep an eye on, and quietly aid, the human contingent.
 
Reaching a unanimous decision, Hodch, Belltower, and Twisted Wing pooled most of their favors from the Nightmare herself (not without a great deal of grumbling from Hodch, however) clearing admittance to the Lunar Citadel for both Jeff and Clemency, intending to act as a buffer between whom he saw as the most problematic Lunar Council members and his own clinical dissertions of the pair. While (somewhat) irritated that the three Starborn didn't get their chance to trash the Council Hall, he was nonetheless pleased at Jeff's acceptance into the Starborn, albeit disgruntled that Canterlot's Starborn emissary, an earth pony, chose to bow out from the meeting.
 
Along with Naliyna and Denra, Hodch has been aiding them in studying and cataloging the Enclave's contents, using his access to the Lunar Armory, the Hall of Memory for information requests, and his own lore on Tallus history, as well as ordering and overseeing the refitting of several Enclave rooms to house some of his now-retired Starborn friends to keep guard. Despite his friendly rivalry with Belltower and Twisted Wing, they, along with Lorekeeper Amerose, have remarked (with varying shades of humor, and in some cases jealousy) on his propensity to filly fool, yet his code of conduct does not allow him to mistreat or intimidate others, leaving many of the Lunar faction curious as to how many rendezvous he's actually had over the years.
 
*****
STATUS: former head teacher at the Canterlot College of Magic. Now a Starborn Nightblade reservist, also aiding in cataloging the Enclave. That is, whenever he isn't being forced into taking care of the Fortress due to Tipper's resignation.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Movement+4, Basic Intimidate+4, Expert Speech+4, Expert Melee+5, Expert Alchemy+6, Expert Crafting+7, Expert Elemental Lance+8, Expert Research+7, Expert Enchanting+9, Expert Teleport+9, Master Deflect Magic+9, Grandmaster Casting+12
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Krinza, Grandmaster Armorer & Weaponsmith: 100HP, 2DR. Age: 27. Month of birth: February.
 
*****
(Aware, Dry Wit, Hyper-Efficient, ELITE: Blacksmithing/Crafting/Enchanting, Savant, Single-Tracked, Watchful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a slightly chunky and perpetually sleepy seeming unicorn, though atypically in good shape underneath his extra weight, standing at 3'11" to the top of his head, not including his horn. Has a deep black coat with a bright yellow mane, his eyes always half-lidded in focus, and while normally a swirling mixture of white, yellow, and black due to the constant enchantments he experiments with, his true eye color is bright lapis lazuli.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: formerly of Gryphon Vale during it's low periods, he left due to the gryphons reviving their own smithing & crafting trades, as well as their mild xenophobia of unicorns due to magic and it's sometimes wonton ill effects. while neither weak or very fit, Krinza takes little pride in physical appearance, uncaring for burns, oil, or debris covering him, as his resistance to heat seems to be entirely innate. An exceptional master armorer, enchanter, and craftspony, Krinza is typically uninterested in conversation not regarding his duties, though he does have a measurably friendly and laid back attitude.
 
Despite his dry mannerisms, strange upbringing, and mild social awkwardness, Krinza has taken an interest in Lann as the two are consumate professionals of their respective trades, also having been ostracized by their own cultures. While dealing with mostly batponies, Lann's own upbringing in the Moors taught her much about breaching traditions and customs, particularly those of unicorns. Though it remains to be seen what'll happen with the pair, Belltower and Roust have secretly been pushing the two together in social situations, looking on in amusement at their half-hearted attempts to keep their burgeoning relationship quiet.
 
Curious about his coloration, when the point was brought up by Jeff, Krinza stated that he was indeed one of Kroza's brothers, though he had a great deal of disdain for his masochist brother while he was alive, citing that his mentality made him 'far more a monster than a pony'.
 
When otherwise unoccupied, Krinza generally studies or sleeps on a pile of rugs under the back wall length table in the workshop, unwilling to be very far from his anvil, tools, and Lann. Continuing his studies despite Spiral's abscence, Krinza has entered the lofty realm of Grandmastery in the fields of enchanting and smithing, with all of the ponies throwing him an immense, luxurious dinner party as a reward, though remains nonplussed at his new title.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a gold hammer laid atop a yellow-outlined, black anvil.
 
*****
STATUS: grandmaster armorer, enchanter, smith, and crafter for Razorback, under permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Auto-Fire Resist+10, Expert Research+6, Expert Elemental Lance+7, Master Casting+9
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Disciple of Spiral. Although his time spent learning under the Canterlotlian Marquis was cut short, Krinza has integrated much of his mentor's esoteric knowledge with his own training in Anfang and Gryphon Vale, granting him the knowledge to work with nearly all materials, except for crystalline.
 
-Grandmaster Crafter+10: Krinza's studies and work on advanced metallic applications allow him to design, improvise, implement, and create advanced mechanical functions, ranging from weapon or armor customization to building highly complex clockwork systems. Still doesn't know much about human technology, though.
 
-Grandmaster Enchanter+10: having pored over Spiral's notes on the various arcane forces and capacities of elementalism for over a year, Krinza is easily capable of performing enhancements to offensive elemental or non-elemental attacks, and most defensive capabilities as well, but has very little capability with Empire crystal. Allows Krinza to maximize offensive and defensive esoteric abilities and enchantments, up to +4.
 
-Grandmaster Smith+10: originally an apprentice to the rune-smiths and forgers of Anfang, spending a year learning under Spiral's tutelage has allowed Krinza to develop several new forms of imbuing and forging, including the skills needed to shape Changeling chitin, greatly surpassing the former elemental Marquis by several margins.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Runic Anvil: a custom-made blackened steel anvil inscribed with gryphon glyphs and unicorn runes, allowing him to add elemental effects and strengthen items with ease. Grants a [1d6+15] <Runic Anvil roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
-Runic Engraving Blade: a heavy, enchanted, and meticulously runed triangular 8" long engraving blade with a flat rear surface, used for scribing and shaping materials with, the effects and process controlled by mental willpower. Grants a [1d6+11] <Runic Engraving Blade roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
-Runic Hammer: a small, heavily enchanted and ornately runed blackened steel hammer with both flat and round heads, used specifically during the forging process or to precisely manipulate the engraving blade. Grants a [1d6+11] <Runic Hammer roll when forging, reforging, or engraving items.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Lann, Master Clothier: 210HP, 3DR. Age: 24. Month of birth: January.
 
*****
(Amiable, Blunt, Cheerful, Direct, Friendly, Hard-Working, Honorable, Talkative, Thoughtful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a fairly chunky, somewhat larger than average, full body bright yellow earth pony mare with brassy yellow eyes and solid colored hooves, standing at 4'7" tall. Normally left long and straight, Lann's mane is composed of numerous curls, and her tail is considerably thicker than most, though cut off above her hooves so as not to drag on the ground. While she doesn't have any combat scars, her front hooves and nose are pockmarked with small dark yellow dots, the results of more misses with sharp, unicorn enchanted needles than she cares to remember.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. a master clothier and seamstress of the Moors, the only one, really, Lann professes a great deal of enjoyment for it's proximity to a host of rare commodities coming from the swamps, as the best cloths and silks in Equestria are only found in the Moors.
 
Her mood is never less, nor more, than cheerfully friendly, having spent most of her life living in the Basin Village and coming to adore the batponies as true equals in all manners. Lann is one of a growing number of earth ponies to shed their seemingly inherent dislike for other pony species, and as of late has been taking a great deal of interest in Krinza, seeing him as both professional and intriguing.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a spool of red thread atop a stylish square purple blanket, two green needles sticking out of the spool, one pointing upwards, the other downwards.
 
*****
STATUS: alternating between the Moors and spending time in the Fortress outfitting Razorback, and their allies of course, under permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Resist Damage+5, Basic Movement+4, Basic Alchemy+4, Expert Speech+3, Expert Appraisal+4, Master Melee+8, Master Crafting+9, Master Seamstress+9
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Expert Shattered Earth+4. A powerful AoE (Area of Effect) stomp that damages and stuns opponents in a 180' forward facing radius. May only use ONCE every third turn.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Crafting Kit: a small box of fifteen psychokinesis pendants that act in semi-sentient conjunction with each other and Lann to blend, shape, and weave together thread from silk or other natural fibers, as well as aid in her sewing with seamless interactions. Partially modified by Krinza. Adds +1 to all Crafting rolls, and grants an additional [1d6+9] <Crafting Kit roll.
 
-Sewing Kit: a medium sized box of roughly sixty needles, ten large interconnection hoops, nine multiple twist-thread spools, and ten psychokinesis pendants that act in semi-sentient conjunction with the rest of the kit and Lann to rapidly create clothing, or other materials, from woven thread made from silk or other fibers with rapid, seamless, and lossless interactions. Partially modified by Krinza. Adds +1 to all Seamstress rolls, grants an additional [1d6+10] <Sewing Kit roll.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Malyne: 40HP, 0DR. Age: 9. Month of birth: January.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a vaguely typical looking orange batfilly, though her coat, tail, and mane are incredibly fuzzy and refuse to be straightened out for long. With her deep orange-slitted eyes and light orange hooves, Malyne is (somehow) Belltower's daughter, and is almost never seen without her mildly amused, always curious smile.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: both Belltower's daughter and sometime protege, Malyne has much more serious and apparently stoic personality on the outside than her mother does. Internally however, she is continuously revising, revamping, learning and relearning new puns and jokes, making her sense of humor far more refined than the majority of batponies. Externally, this batfoal enjoys all aspects of learning, whether history, new and interesting skills, or the mentalities of other ponies. Despite her normally happy-go-lucky mentality and appearance, Malyne is somewhat skittish when it comes to magic and it's side-effects, having gone to see several Scars of the Moors with both her mother and the Basin Village's Matron.
 
Although her mother's relationship is highly strained with Twisted Wing, she considers the Enchained General her aunt, despite being confused as to why neither speaks of the circumstances between them, but enjoys being in Twisted's company nonetheless. Constantly curious, as all batponies are, meeting Dancing Eyes (in a good mood for once) and learning of her legendary skills in alchemy and crafting, Malyne decided to learn carving. While Malyne usually huffy about Roust's cool treatment of the primal psion, she would prefer not to press the issue until understanding why.
 
As Malyne has grown a bit and learned from those living in the Fortress, she has begun developing her relationships and skills with both Dancing Eyes and Mercy, understanding that in her situation the ability to defend herself may become required, if not vital, in the future.
 
Due to her young age, the creatures of the Everfree, and the known (and potential) enemies of Razorback, the ponies of the Fortress have, quietly amongst themselves, sworn to defend Malyne at all costs.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: blank.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Dancing Eyes: is very friendly towards, but doesn't understand why she's a prisoner.
-Jeff: completely disregards the fact that he's a different species, and enjoys his company whenever around.
-Roust: thinks of the Vanguard as her second aunt. Especially loves hearing stories of the old Empire and the Hive.
-Tipper: considers Tipper an older, much wiser sister.
-Twisted Wing: considers the General her first aunt. Likes leaving mangoes on her head when she's asleep, and napping on her warm, unnaturally soft (but nonetheless pleasing) flanks.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Counter, Basic Carving+1, Basic Crafting+1, Basic Speech+1, Basic Stealth+1, Basic Sleight of Claw+1, Basic Melee+2, Basic Movement+2, Basic Screech+3
 
*****
ITEMS:
-Doll Hoard: has a MASSIVE collection of stuffed dolls, mostly from Lann's hoofwork, that fills two corners of the Library's playroom, nearly all of them bought by Belltower, though she's begun receiving new ones from Razorback's mare contingent, and shows no hesitation when deploying one to, or onto, somepony.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Sapphire-Inset Hoofband. A size 8.5 hoofband made from six rolled sheaves of kanpri melded together in a spiral pattern, inset with an Anti-infused sapphire tracking gem cut into a pear shape by Krinza, allowing Jeff to track where she is at all times through the TacPad. Also quite fashionable. Currently in Jeff's possession.
 
-Sportsman ATV: a 1:40 miniature scaled copy of Jeff's personal ATV. Features a real steel frame, hard PVC body, honeycomb rubber tires, and the handlebars move, too! Kept with her at all times on base, or left in Dancing Eyes' possession when visiting the Moors. Greatly treasured.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 1/2 Enchantment Slots.
-Sticky: a powerful full body enchantment that allows it's owner to stick to nearly any surface, including cloud material, without fear of being removed. May also attach items to oneself for a near-permanent hold.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Mercy, Spirit Walker: 120HP, 2DR. Age: 21. Month of birth: December.
 
*****
(Anti-Otherworldly/Planar/Spectral/Undead, Careful, Emotional, Precise, Quiet, Reserved, Scarred, Spectrum Diver, Spiritual, Stealthy, Traditionalist, Veterancy: Combat/Movement/Stealth)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a slightly larger than normal, well toned bright white pegasus mare with solid white eyes, no pupils present. While normally a sign of blindness, Mercy is able to see normally, or so she states. Carries a long, jagged scar across the right side of her throat that makes speaking highly difficult. Also has a 1/2" wide, 5" long deep scar on her front left shoulder, caused by a Scout/Sentry Hybrid Construct. Speaks with a somewhat halting, raspy voice due to the damage of her vocal cords, part of which has been restored by Nova Flicker, although she can speak much clearer and for longer periods of time when sunken into the Underdark, or when taking Dampener under Tipper's advice to alleviate the aggravation.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: born and raised in Cloudsdale, a highly traditional and somewhat old fashioned cloud city of roughly 5,000 pegasi, Mercy moved to Las Pegasus for as of yet unknown reasons. Unable to find work and somewhat skittish of the fast-paced city, particularly it's hedonistic night life, she began working for Linara, unknowing of her status as Lucky's rival from Stalliongrad, as her personal Enforcer, tracking down 'lost' Bits, intimidating ponies into paying their debts or giving information, and so on.
 
*****
Finally becoming fed up from Linara's increasingly severe attitude towards ponies in general, Mercy, at the wrong time and place, made the unfortunate choice of attempting to assault the Associate in her mansion, only to be caught off guard from a savage attack to the right side of her neck when several members of Razorback, under Denra's employ, were going to do much the same. Trying to flee afterwards, she was brutally knocked out by Jeff and Clemency, then treated for injuries sustained by Jeff and Oingo afterwards before she could bleed out, later identifying Jeff as one of two calming voices from when she was fading in and out of consciousness. Her Bits were left with her after being assaulted, something she considered extremely unusual, though the loss of her mother's passed down wingblades contributed to her mental and physical decline, yet she later chose to leave her blades in his possession later on, returning now and then for one.
 
Somewhat recovering after spending most of her time drinking at Lucky's Bar, she eventually met Pella, befriending her during many nights of hard drinking, usually with the other patrons staring at her from afar. After recovering enough to place her on trial, the Judge of Las Pegasus made short work of her case, ordering the secondary covert feathers of both wings branded and covered in official silver and gold pegasi runes detailing each and every one of her crimes, ranging from: theft, grave robbery, slander, destruction of property, violent intimidation, lying under oath, destruction of evidence, and much more. Despite her willingness to commit criminal acts, Mercy refused to murder or rape under Linara's orders, which is the only reason she was not placed in permanent confinement or executed.
 
Having little choice but to take another job, and to prevent herself from returning to Cloudsdale in disgrace, Mercy put her name on Lucky's list of hires as an enforcer, despite Pella urging her not to. Upon arriving at her destination, she became disheartened that she had been contracted to humans, and began lurking the Fortress's outside perimeter, always under stealth, utterly unwilling to break her contract regardless of the circumstance. Alcohol and food disappeared from the mess hall at regular intervals, along with spiked ponyshoe tracks, three of the few clues as to her continued existence at the Fortress, yet those same spiked tracks, once found outside the walls no matter where one would walk, have not been seen for some time. While she puts on a brave face to most, Pella and Tipper continue to notice mild signs of PTSD, though Twisted has been carefully coaching her on how to deal with stress resulting from both social interaction and conflict. As thanks for her continued support, she still has flings with Pella (all of them one-sided, however) whenever she feels like it.
 
She returned, alone, from setting Skullcracker, the sole former Lunar Guardian turned Starborn General, free from his deathless state in Stalliongrad. Thanks to his tutelage, Mercy learnt his wisdom and the teachings of other spectrums, dimensions, and worlds, also showing her a means to safely access the Overdark, Underdark, and other realms without endangering herself or others. Pleased with her interested nature, Skullcracker even gave her the ability to easily communicate with Otherworldly and Spectral beings, regardless of species.
 
Often sharing time with Naliyna and Belltower, due to the pair wanting to make her more feel at ease around humans, Mercy became slightly more outgoing when it comes to social situations, though was not any more talkative for obvious reasons. Noting a number of seemingly innocuous emotional sensations and awkward, to her, thoughts, she brought them to the attention of Tipper, whom stated to Mercy that she was simply lonely, and advised her to attempt to befriend Jeff and Thrill, seeing as how she was close friends with both of their mares. Accepting her advice (with some misgivings), she chose to approach Jeff first, knowing that he had her mother's wingblades in his possession. Angered at his explanation of the mistake that nearly took her life, and his admittance that not all of Razorback were, in her jaded eyes, as honorable as he seemed to be, she instead chose to return now and again for one of her blades,  completely refusing to answer the others when asked why.
 
Months later, Mercy approached Jeff with the proposition of becoming his and Belltower's herd-second, a term that means secondary mate, usually for those that are injured, incapacitated, or afflicted with long term disease, despite her knowledge of batponies being monogamous. Seeing his acknowledgement to speak to Belltower on the matter, she was satisfied that she had, at the very least, acted on Tipper's words. Unable to contain her joy after hearing she had been accepted by the pair, Mercy immediately requested Pella's hardest drink, only to wake up painfully hungover, and sprawled across Twisted on her heatstone in a very compromising position. Disregarding her screaming notions of indecency, she allowed herself a half-day of celebration, only this time in moderation.
 
During Stalliongrad's siege, Mercy approached Thrill in the Enclave, Naliyna continuing to swim in the Enclave's secluded pool without a shred of concern. Feeling extremely awkward at the single contact, she steeled herself to remain as formal as possible, convinced that her manners with Jeff were both distasteful and wrongful. Cautiously approaching the subject with Thrill of becoming their herd-second, Naliyna's appearance after tiring of her swim, and her amused, uncritical handling of the situation continued to deepen Mercy's awkwardness, though she refused to allow herself to be frustrated. Unwilling to explain the embarrassing term of herd-second, a rather difficult task to accomplish for anypony, she left Naliyna to the task, trying to ignore the thoughts of leaving quietly the two to discuss the matter. Awed by Thrill and Naliyna accepting the proposition after some thought, Mercy thanked the pair as gracefully as she could.. and found herself in much the same position as before, only this time with less of a hangover.
 
While attempting to uncover relics of the Spirit Walker's legacy in Skykeep, an armory formerly attached to Skybrook, once a major pegasi city, Mercy, along with Dante, Jeff, Natalia, and Paredolia, found the set of hoofboots, along with a number of refined pinksteel fragments and debris, guarded by a pair of Constructs on the third level of the crumbling structure. Overconfident in her skills and abilities, she chose the western unit for herself, and ambushed it, managing to scrape past it's defenses several times until the eastern linked Construct was destroyed, which then shifted it's consciousness to the western Construct, empowering it greatly. Unable to hold off the western Construct due to her lack of combat knowledge and rapidly increasing fatigue, she grudgingly forced herself to back off. Showing annoyance and disbelief at Dante leaving Skykeep in a hurry, Mercy refused to become bitter, resolving herself to become more proficient in combat. Waiting for the others to leave, once alone with Jeff in the armory, she gave him a hug as her personal thanks, seeking to, at the very least, show that she appreciated his company. While the incident taught her much, she is looking into a possible connection between the Lunar Guardians and the pegasi Spirit Walkers descended from that time. Considering the event for some time afterwards, Mercy has conceded the point that not all beings can share the same knowledge or, to her, proper protocols of action, yet still sees Dante as unmanageable.
 
As Mercy has remained honest in her duties, found company in her new home, and managed to (partially) forgive herself, the wingblades have marked her as a true Spirit Walker, thus she can no longer rely on it's abilities to find unnatural beings for her, instead allowing her learn it's programmed search function as a form of constantly heightened combat meditation, and has also reduced it's inherent enhancements that formerly augmented her ambush capabilities.
 
An expert in stealth and a potential master of anti-Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead combat, yet with a deep, spiritual connection to the Underdark, and possibly several other spectrums of Equestria, Mercy is capable of teaching her specialized skill to others of a spiritual nature, though this is temporary and can be rather difficult to keep in practice. Can usually be found on Twisted's heatstone when she isn't there, often found idolizing the General, and Belltower, greatly, though she has little interest in the Night Guard or other services. While Mercy dislikes being tracked down or looked for, she'll typically follow an Operator or pony around, if for no other reason than to keep them quiet and let her do her job in peace, yet has come to like the ponies at the Fortress, thinking of them as her extended, but still close, family.
 
*****
STATUS: formerly stuck in Las Pegasus with nowhere to go. Now working for Razorback and adapting to her new life as one of the Fortress's main guardians. Under permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Pella & Twisted Wing: very friendly with, considers both of them her sisters.
-Thrill & Naliyna: partially friendly towards.
-All other Operators: slightly poor.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a pair of white, spiked ponyshoes, nearly invisible against her coat.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Meditation+3, Basic Speech+3, Basic Alchemy+5, Basic Perception+4, Basic Auto-Ambush+4, Basic Auto-Stealth+6, Expert Movement+5, Expert Melee+6
 
LOST ABILITIES: Basic Intimidation+4
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Auto-Resist: a standard ability of spiritists that allows Mercy to ignore some of the harm and trauma that inevitably results from combat with Otherworldly, Planar, and Spectral beings, using a [1d6+5] roll.
 
-Basic Fearless: under Twisted Wing and Tipper's tutelage, Mercy has been learning the proper methods to mask and temporarily hold her emotions in both conflict and in social situations, this flaw resulting from her fairly strict and highly traditional upbringing. Grants 2x [1d6] <Fearless rolls for use in social situations where her emotional and traditional nature would be compromised, or in combat against unruly or intimidating opponents.
 
-Spirit Walk. During her time spent delving into other planes and spectrums, Mercy has learned to create a small, personal pocket dimension, and often uses it as a quiet place to meditate, store interesting items in, or simply to get away from others for a while. At times, she may also allow other living beings to enter it, only with her permission of course. Once per Operation, roll [1d6], the result being the number of turns that Mercy and two others can enter the pocket dimension and remain safely sheltered from all harm. Once complete, the pocket dimension will release Mercy and her allies, placing them in the exact locations they were, with time passing normally. This ability also allows Mercy to safely cloak herself along with another living being into the Underdark, Overdark, or other spectrums TWICE per Operation, though she is often reluctant to do so.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Basic Spectral Shatter. Having trained with her mother and the minotaur shaman of Gozka before leaving Cloudsdale, Mercy is able to draw upon deeply imbued rites from within the Spirit Walker's Wingblades, granting her the ability to unleash expulsions of crippling energies against Otherworldy, Planar, Spectral, and Undead enemies in Melee with a [1d6+10] <Expulse or <Shatter attack, depending on the nature of her opponent, that may stun every 3rd turn on MAX critical. An additional effect of Mercy's emerging spiritual nature, combined with the constant mental conditioning from commanding her wingblades' volatile energies, grants her the ability to automatically search for, and potentially recognize, Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings with a [1d6+4] <Reveal Unnatural ability each turn.
 
*****
SUPPORT ACTION: "...? ...!!!" When a Razorback team requires an expert in Alchemy or Stealth, or if they need a specialized Anti-Otherworldly, Spectral, Planar, or Undead combatant, one of the current members on the Operation may call upon Mercy with a [1d6] <Summon the Free Spirit! roll to arrive and aid them. Mercy will Stealth in as quickly as possible, and then immediately focus on any foe that does not appear to be receiving significant damage or engage the most dangerous target if she deems it more threatening, returning to the Fortress after her time is up unless the current Ally/Companion is incapacitated. NOTE: Mercy may not engage hostile Elemental forces, will not stay long if heavy Melee is required, and will require periodic rest if replacing an Ally/Companion.
 
*****
ITEMS:
-Custom Fit Radio+Headset: finished and miniaturized, as well as made invisible, by Spiral.
 
-Spectral Transformation Potions, quantity: 4. Adds +2 to all Stealth rolls on the following turn after consuming. Rumored to taste like.. something. One use per each.
 
*****
WEAPONRY:
-Spiked Ponyshoes: a quartet of four colored white, unenchanted steel spiked ponyshoes, meant for use in intimidating enemies and for traction on ice, though less so for open combat. Adds +1 to all Melee attacks and +1 to all Intimidate attempts. Not used, however.
 
*****
UNIQUE ELIXIR:
-Cryptosis Regen: developed in secret during the renovation of Razorback Fortress, Mercy spent most of her admittedly large new fortune acquiring the exotic, expensive, and in some cases, dangerous reagents to create a personalized elixir in case of severe injury. Combines the effects of Cryptus, Restoration, and Regen, may be administered up to 3 times per day/night.
 
*****
PERSONAL ARMOR:
-White Pegasi Spiritist's Armor: provides +2DR against all physical and elemental damage when worn. A woven silk and compressed cotton armor formerly owned by Serra, heavily customized and modified by Lann, also now colored the same as her coat. The exterior has been hardened by an armor charm, yet it is still flexible enough to move around in easily, further improved by Lann's hoofwork. While it covers all but her hooves and head, Mercy doesn't like being hindered during flight or movement and, typical of most pegasi, would rather not wear the armor at all, but will use it if convinced otherwise or she sees the need for it's protection.
 
*****
RELIC WEAPONRY:
-Spirit Walker Hoofboots (Weapon Traits: 0/2 Enchantment Slots, Graven-Carved, Lunar-Forged, Archaic Legendary Artifacts): a quartet of fluorescent pinksteel hoofboots imbued with numerous arcane enchantments, the first of which is a powerful sticky enchantment, the second a strong slowfall-float, and the third a silence effect. The Spirit Walker wingblades and hoofboots were created by General Skullcracker before the Lunar-Solar War, though Mercy herself does not know enough to suspect why. Adds +1 to all Melee and Stealth rolls, and ONCE per Operation grants a [1d6] <Silence ability that, when attacking a living being, will disable all sound for that number of turns on the target.
 
-Spirit Walker Wingblades (Weapon Traits: 0/3 Enchantment Slots, Graven-Carved, Lunar-Forged, Archaic Legendary Artifacts): a set of large, indestructible pinksteel pegasi wingblades, a cool pink in color, meant for use in open combat as a shield when grounded or otherwise incapable of flight. There are numerous enchantments on these arcane weapons, given to Mercy by her mother. Not only do they allow her the ability to slip into stealth whenever she wishes against white backgrounds and imbue her with natural Ambush heightening capabilities, they also allow her safe access to the Underdark and Void spectrums of Equestria, as well as giving her the capacity to sense the normally hidden beings of those realms with relative ease. These wingblades do not offer additional harm to physical opponents, instead adding +2 to all Melee rolls ONLY when facing Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings; furthermore, the wingblades grant both Auto-Ambush and Auto-Stealth. 2 remaining from Jeff.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Nova Flicker, Ward Neophyte: 70HP, 1DR. Age: 20. Month of birth: April.
 
*****
(Asexual, Calming Presence, Compulsion: Recovery, Gentle, Guardian, Introspective, Merciful, Healer, Polite, Rational, Studious, Tender-Hearted, Veteran: Recovery, Ward, Warm-Hearted)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a young, luxuriously soft carnelian coated unicorn mare with a half garnet, half aquamarine mane. Her pupils are soft edged five-pointed stars, a slight glowing carnelian in color, though it's obvious that she isn't Enchained. Her body is exceptionally curved and her facial features more feminine than most mares in comparison, giving her an always aroused or sensual expression, though she professes no interest in lovers or her own looks. Unfortunately, she bears a number of small, virtually unhealing scars across her flanks, face, and front shoulders, the results of her compulsion to aid any injured or ill being, regardless of consequences, and has chosen to keep them as reminders of her duties.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: Nova Flicker is a Ward, a form of very rare and dedicated unicorn healer capable of recovering living beings from volatile enchantments such as Bane or Void based effects, as well as curing or eliminating afflictions that run beyond the knowledge of traditional healers, doctors, and alchemists. While her skills are not as effective as Meridian Veil's, Nova Flicker's tender nature and warm personality make her exceedingly well liked by all that have come into contact with her, though her merciful mentality hides a sharp intellect and voracious appetite for knowledge. Also mildly narcoleptic.
 
A well-known traveler and trader across Equestria, Nova is always in search of fresh herbs and has quite a few contacts amongst the many healer's circles. She is, however, highly unwilling to watch others be harmed, regardless of their species or temperment, and will directly intervene in open hostilities, using herself as a lure in order to hold an opponent at bay while teleporting bystanders from danger.
 
*****
STATUS: the Fortress's dedicated Ward, hired by Jeff under a 2 year contract.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: A dim white sphere, the outer edge covered in long wavy platinum triangles, the inside taken up by four small novae: blue, red, orange, and black, each connected in series by a green barbed chain.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Taunt+3, Basic Melee+3, Basic Speech+4, Expert Research+4, Expert Alchemy+5, Expert Recovery+5, Master Casting+6, Master Teleport+6
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY: Expert Calming Presence. Nova Flicker's guardian mentality and calming presence can be focused into a state of heightened combat meditation, increasing her concentration and allowing her to bring a hostile being's attention to bear solely on her, or a or non-combat trance, giving her another opportunity to defuse situations before they become violent. In combat: roll 2x [1d6], the higher result adds +X to all Recovery rolls, the lower result lasts that number of turns, while also adding +3 to all Taunt rolls. Out of combat: roll 2x [1d6], the higher result lasts that number of turns, the lower result adds +X to all Speech rolls, while also adding +3 to all Recovery rolls.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Auto-Field Regen. Nova Flicker's immense devotion to the warmth of life itself exudes from her very being, restoring the wounds of all friendly and neutral living beings nearby with a [1d6+4] roll. This skill is always active, even when asleep, unconscious, or in Critical status, and does not cause Arcane Poisoning.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEM:
-Healer's Saddlepack. A woven cotton pack that she keeps with her at all times, filled with a collection of sealed jars, the contents, a host of alchemical fluids, range from anti-parasitics to painkillers, styptics, anti-bacterials, wound cleaning agents, and sedatives, all herbal in nature and capable of being used on virtually any living being. A number of large wound dressings made from a sticky spider silk are contained between sheets of alocara bark, used to rapidly stabilize injured patients and stop Bleeding on contact, also infused with small amounts of styptic, anti-bacterial agents, a wound cleaning agent, and a heavy painkiller. Grants a [1d6+10] <Healer's Pack roll.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS:  3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Sparking Fleur, the Antleriest: 80HP, 0DR (+5DR from Wooden Tendril Armor). Age: unknown.
 
*****
(Calm, Cautious, Cheerful: Twisted Wing, Devoted, Fearless (unless Instinctive), Inquisitive, Oblivious, Sharp: Lin, Understanding: Old Horn, Uneducated)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a milky-brown coated female Pred-Elk, usually hidden under a layer of living wood, a pair of bright, mystic-blue eyes being the only exposed part of her face. Slightly taller then an average Earth pony with a slim frame due to her species' proportions.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: during an attempted extermination of Efirates in the Everfree Forest, Old Horn, desperate to end the struggle, fractured and split Dr. Novus's Ka, his decision giving Sparking Fleur, an otherwise unnotable Predator Elk, along with the herd she belonged to, true sentience. Adjusting to having to think on her own for the first few days, they were under strict supervision by Old Horn, teaching them the basics of their new existence such as speech and simple manners, shortly afterwards exercising great devotion during the extermination of Efirates. For these actions, Sparking Fleur and her kin see Old Horn as a father figure, becoming extremely dedicated to him and his cause.
 
After spending an Operation with a few humans from Razorback, Sparky took it upon herself to return a human weapon to their Fortress, given to her by Old Horn for unknown and seemingly out of character reasons. Upon entering the Fortress, she found herself more intrigued than disgusted by the artificial environment, and during her visit she met Twisted Wing. Talking to and quickly befriending the Burning General, Fleur has decided to stay for an extended period of time. Through Twisted, she has learned not to use her armor's wooden tendrils on others without their strict consent, much to the Pred-Elk's confusion of course. Eventually becoming fond of Executioner, the Enchained pegasi's wholly unnatural spiritual flames have, somehow, kept the whispering darkness in her dreams at bay.
 
Returning to the Fortress for a brief amount of time, Sparking Fleur sensed another being in line with nature, much like Father Old Horn, but more deeply rooted in natural cycles. Discovering Lin, with a quick (and scrunchy face inducing) exchange later, the Pred-Elk was led into the Everfree by the literal featherbrain, where she spent the next several months under the Legendary Druid's wing. During this time her obliviousness has given way to a much sharper attitude, developed from having to concentrate and interpret Lin's constant procrastination, typical airheadedness, and highly dubious (at least, from a predelk's standpoint) 'peace-through-superior-I-don't-know-what-I'm-doing-but-I-think-it's-working!' nature.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Druidic Sight+2, Basic Singing, Basic Dancing, Expert Druidry+4, Expert Stealth+4, Expert Perception+7, Master Melee+1
 
*****
SPECIES ABILITY: Expert Lightning Strike. A natural ability of all pred-elks, allowing them to absorb and store electrical discharges in their antlers, and release at an enemy with 3x [1d6+4] rolls. Predelks may charge this ability by +2 each turn, capping at +10.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Druidic Wooden Tendril Armor: provides +5DR and adds +4 to all Melee rolls when used. This wooden armor, guided and shaped by Old Horn, was allowed to grow naturally, and was further shaped by old traditional Druid craft. It has the ability to sprout highly flexible tendrils, used to manipulate objects, and may also be used for offensive purposes. The tendrils themselves are linked to her mind, allowing total command and control over them, and with enough concentration Sparky can extend her mind along the length of the tendrils to see ahead. After the time spent under Lin, Sparky has taken the liberty in reforming her armor to cover her entire body, giving the appearance that she is completely made from winding gnarled wood and tendrils.
 
 
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Steel Blitz, Nightclaw: 130HP, 1DR (+1DR with Nightclaw Light Armor). Age: 23. Month of birth: September.
 
*****
(Amiable, Ambusher, Bold, Chatty, Cheerful, Curious, Quick, Talkative, Veterancy: Senses/Speed)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a dark red coated pegasus with a steel gray mane and blue eyes, a lighter red coloration on his wing tips.. though he will vehemently argue otherwise if it's called pink. Has an expansive three-clawed scar on his right side across his ribs.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a Las Pegasus native, Steel Blitz comes from a long line of Lunar Guard and Starborn, his genealogy dating all the way back to the Lunar Guardians. Interestingly, his family has been noted for the exceptional 'size' of their stallions, while the mares are considerably more difficult to satisfy. Blitz has a natural affinity for the occasionally-used wing darts, despite them being considered an assassin's weapon in some circles, not that this fact deters him from using them.
 
An incident years ago in Canterlot has left him heavily scarred on his right side due to a gryphon assassin attacking a noble and his guard, Aster. Only a recruit at the time, he diverted the assassins's attention long enough for Aster to kill the gryphon. Although he appreciates her life debt, he's not going to stop the earth mare from watching over him.
 
Now a newly promoted Nightclaw, he has been assigned to Razorback, with Aster in tow of course. Upbeat and ready to meet new and interesting beings, the predictable and boring wall patrol has made him hyper-vigilant of anything that might go on beyond the Fortress walls, and is always eager to do something exciting.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: three steel daggers fanned out aiming forward with streaks behind them, usually covered by his armor.
 
*****
STATUS: a Night Guard at Razorback Fortress, part of the overwatch crew.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Aster: her partner on wall patrol, and second mare in their herd with Natilda.
-Soviet Comrade, AKA Natilda: lead mare.
-Vanil: good friends with, and is usually the first to receive his scouting reports.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Speech+2, Basic Stealth+4, Expert Ambush+3, Expert Perception+4, Expert Melee+5, Expert Movement+5
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Nightclaw Light Armor (Armor Traits: 1/1 Enchantment Slots, Custom-Fit, Lunar-Forged, Unique): provides +1DR. A personalized, custom fit overcoat made of woven silk and kanpri strands, offering more than enough movement and protection for weight-hating pegasi during patrols and combat.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Lunar Wing Blades (Weapon Traits:: 2/2 Enchantment Slots, Custom-Fit, Lunar-Forged): a set of standarized, dark purple wingblades issued to all Night Guard pegasi upon initiation. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when used.
 
-Wing Darts: six extremely sharp small barbed metal darts, three on each wing, that are attached to Blitz's outermost secondary feathers. Can hurl up to 2 at an enemy per turn using [1d6+8] <Wing Dart rolls, also granting Armor Pierce 2 (negates 2DR). Attempting to remove an embedded dart incorrectly will result in an unavoidable [1d6] <Barbed Misery roll that bypasses external DR and causes Bleeding. Once Blitz has expended all six, he must either retrieve them or affix the extra six he keeps on him, though he must skip his attack rolls to do so.
 
*****
Personal Enchantments: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Pella, 90HP, 1DR. Age: 19. Month of birth: January.
 
*****
(Amiable, Cheery, Defuser, Hostess, Kind, Natural Speaker, Smooth Talker, Quick)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a slender, average sized, constantly cheery pegasus with a soft blue coat, her pink wings and mane accentuating her friendly appearance, and is never seen wearing anything less than a friendly smile. Pella has become considerably more concerned with her personal fitness during her time with Razorback, taking time to work out with the mercenaries unless otherwise occupied, developing a decent amount of musculature while keeping her cute, curvy nature.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown, but presumably good.
 
Formerly a barmare at Lucky's Tavern, she was hired into Razorback's employ when Lucky's significant expansion of Las Pegasus occurred, and despite wanting to explore the world and it's peoples she acknowledges the necessity that nearly all other races have highly subpar service, foodwise.
 
An exceptional and visually appealing hostess, Pella knows how to handle drunks, food, and beverages with a cheery, slightly coy attitude, mostly belying her kind, but quick-witted nature. Fleet of mind and hoof, she's capable of memorizing 20 orders at a time, and is able to deliver them with unerring accuracy, though her memory of social situations or anything military related is far less than phenomenal. Has admitted that she wants to own a bar of her own, but considers the probability of such an undertaking out of league.
 
After a rocky but highly interesting start with Esera, Pella has Coming to enjoy Dante's time and affection, finding him strong of character, enjoying his willingness to speak honestly and bluntly, though after Esera left she has been somewhat solemn, apparently joy deprived from the initiate necromancer's lack of presence. A newfound herd relationship with Mist Dancer, and subsequently sharing Dante again, has left her wondering whether or not his character is, as the former Chief suspects, flawed enough to warrant direct intervention.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a blue stone mug topped with pink foam, slightly tilted forwards.
 
*****
STATUS: night time hostess & cook/server in Razorback's Mess Hall, under permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Dante: in a herd with, lead stallion.
-Mercy: slightly strained relations with, but greatly enjoys her company.. whenever she's not being flank flustered from the Spirit Walker's stealthy assaults.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Intimidate+4, Expert Melee+4, Expert Movement+4, Expert Speech+4, Expert Chef+6
 
*****
SHARED ABILITY: Basic Smooth Talker. Dante has spent enough time with Pella and picked up some of her easy-going nature, as well as understanding how she deals with stressful situations and pain-in-the-ass ponies. Whenever speaking to any of the pony species, Dante gains +1 to all Speech rolls, or +2 if attempting to calm a pony down.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Torven, Veteran Treasure Hunter: 200HP, 2DR. Age: 33. Month of birth: April.
 
*****
(Careful, Cautious, Cheerful, Curious, Efficient, Inquisitive, Lucky, Mischievous, Paranoid, Pessimist, Rational, Rogue, Stealthy, Veteran: Movement/Thievery)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: an average sized, well toned batpony stallion with a dark cobalt coat and mane, his hooves and wingclaws much lighter shaded, and bright, cherry red diamond-slitted eyes. Doesn't seem to have many scars overall, except for a number of thin, weblike lines on his wings.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. A natural born citizen of the Moors, Torven is considered one of the few true veteran treasure hunters in Equestria, having acquired a personal treasury rivaling that of the Basin's yearly income in the past 15 years alone. Though he spends most of his fortunate trading for information, locations, and equipment to keep him alive during his travels, his own home in the Basin, to the west of the market, is sparsely furnished and almost never used, instead preferring to keep it as a location for the traders to store most of their goods.
 
Less than a year after Razorback's arrival, Torven, on a long term mapping trip through the Equestria, found himself, for once, lost. Losing his saddlepack to an unknown creature, probably a young wyre drake, he spent the next two days searching it, but luckily kept his neck pouch. Succumbing to a minor viral infection from drinking contaminated water, he chose a tree branch well above the ground, unknowingly several miles from the Fortress, deciding to wait it out, melting snow for water to drink and happily napping the time away.
 
Early one night, Torven was awoken by a Changeling and a human wandering about about, making no attempt to contact them, mostly from amusement at the strange beings. Roust, asking a few questions in her own language, was forced to switch to Common Equestrian, although her basic fluency caused Torven to inform Hollow that he couldn't read Changeling runes, both puzzled by him making no effort to leave. Later on, Jeff took Belltower, still in the Nightblade doll at that time, to search for his unmistakable eyes, easily convincing him to accept treatment at the Fortress, though not without Torven promising to hoof over a couple of his maps as repayment.
 
Quickly learning to accept Tipper's 'advice', and making a friend of Simon at the time, he chose to stick around in the hopes of mapping the surrounding forest, curious about it's location and vicinity to several ruins he'd noted before, but had been unable to enter. Although reluctant to visit Tipper during this time, his on and off battle with the uncommon virus, one that several humans have noticed as similar to influenza and thought to be incapable of cross species contamination, hampered him from returning to the Moors, instead giving him plenty of time to continue his second favorite activity: sleep in random places. Upside down, of course. Eventually consolidating his notes and journal logs, Torven, on a visit from Hollow, gave him the location of a long abandoned Changeling outpost some distance from the Fortress, mentioning his difficulty in entering. Shortly afterwards, Torven gave Jeff a map with the location of a possible geode cache, and a second mark where he'd noticed a bright orange light, but had been too concerned over his personal safety to enter.
 
As of late, Torven has taken to.. simply hanging around Razorback, lounging in the warm rafters above the workshop, generally doing nothing of importance while spending as much time comfortably asleep as possible.
 
*****
STATUS: finished mapping the surrounding Everfree forest from Razorback Fortress, now looking for treasure nearby.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Alchemy+2, Basic Ambush+2, Basic Screech+3, Expert Cartography+3, Expert Geography+3, Expert Stealth+4, Expert Perception/Scouting+6, Master Melee+4, Master Movement+6, Master Sleight of Claw+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-FE.Venom: a strong, fast acting and spreading painkiller combined with a powerful euphoric element and a strong muscle relaxant, injected from his upper maxillary fangs into pinned or stunned targets with a [1d6+2] roll, result-2 is the number of turns the target suffers a -4 penalty to all actions taken. This ability can ONLY target living beings, and may only be used ONCE per Operation, although Torven greatly dislikes the fact that he's one of the few with this mutation.
 
-Natural Weaponry: Torven's stubby fangs and claws are quite tough, allowing him to pierce 1DR with each attack when in use.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Cartography Journal: a small, newer hardcover book containing notations, all in batpony script, detailing information related to his geographic journal. Grants an additional Cartography roll for determining position.
 
-Crystal Compass: made from Imperial crystal, this is a small water-filled compass with a protective lid, made specifically to keep perfect track of one's direction. For obvious reasons, it doesn't work at all at higher elevations. Grants a [1d6+3] <Compass roll for determining position.
 
-Geography Journal: a small, well worn journal filled with custom maps of the Everfree and the Moors, including cities, structures, ruins, and natural oddities of note, with numerous marks in batpony script. Grants a [1d6+3] <Geography roll for determining position.
 
-Neck Pouch: a brown, woven cotton pouch containing several vials and packets of alchemical supplies. What supplies Torven carries with him entirely depends on the area he's exploring, but he almost always carries one Dampener and one Regeneration.
 
-Underwing Satchels: two small satchels, each no larger than the average pocket, containing his journals and compass. Rather worn and heavily patched from his travels, much to Lann's chagrin.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPON:
-Reinforced Steel Hoofclaws (Weapon Traits: 1/1 Enchantment Slots remaining, Custom-Fit): a quartet of snugly fitting, blackened steel hoofboots with four short, sharp claws melded to the front, used to dig holes in trees, packed ground, or enemies if need be. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when used, Armor Pierce 1 (negates 1DR).
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 1/3 Slots remaining.
-Pure Void Drop: one of the two known material essences from the Scars of the Moors, this is a teardrop shaped, physical representation of the Void on Tallus, incapable of being subjected to touch for long, or it may disappear from reality. When consumed, a sliver of the Void's notorious 'quiet' influence is imparted, granting the consumer the ability to safely travel through the Underdark now and then, as if they were a being originating from there. This effect becomes permanent afterwards and retains it's negative qualities under use of Stealth, though is highly prized by batpony hunters nonetheless. Adds +1 to all Stealth rolls, may safely travel through the Underdark once per Operation, with one more use at Master rank Stealth, and becomes considered an Ally to the Void; however, all Ranged capabilities are removed while under Stealth, and the consumer loses all DR for the turn after dropping Stealth as the transition from incorporeal to material spectrums is a jarring event.
 
-Sticky: a powerful, full body enchantment that allows it's owner to stick to nearly any surface, including cloud material, without fear of being removed. May also attach items to oneself for a near-permanent hold.
 
 
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Tipper, Clinic Doctor: 140HP, 2DR. Age: 63. Month of birth: May.
 
*****
(Brash, Healer, Intellectual, Kind, Motherly, Natural Healer, Stern, Veterancy: Alchemy/Casting/Recovery)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: an aged, motherly, and kind but stern faded pink unicorn mare with metallic eyes. While Tipper carries no scars of any note, she has a great number of stress lines around her eyes and cheeks, signifying her advanced age. As Twisted has commented, Tipper's coat was once a bright, cheerful bubblegum pink, but has dimmed significantly over the years.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: formerly working for the Day, Royal, and Honor Guards as their main healer, Tipper could no longer handle the stresses of caring for much of the Guard's ills due to her advancing age. A consumate professional, Tipsy, as she was known by many of the Guard for her drinking habits in her early years at the Canterlot College of Magic, takes a severe no-nonsense approach to all of her patients, enforcing strict rules of fast, proper treatment, plenty of relaxation, short and friendly visits, and NO riling up or otherwise exciting a patient for any reason. Also seems to be the only pony, besides Cadence and Countess Folunasi, that knows how to properly and correctly treat arcane poisoning. A side-effect of her extensive knowledge on unicorn physiology is a latent regeneration ability, though it does nothing to quell the soreness she experiences quite often.
 
Unable to socialize much due to her aches, Tipsy often spends her waking hours reading medical guides and books, sorting through or rotating supplies constantly, and teaching Mercy, Roust, and Malyne about Equestria and the histories of other countries. Unfortunately, her physical condition slows her down greatly, preventing her from aiding her newfound family on the battlefield, MUCH to her distaste.
 
Typical of mares her age, Tipper enjoys hot tea immensely, especially to keep her hooves warm, and hosts a tea party in the mess hall every evening after dusk as a way to unwind and relax amongst the others on base. Refusing to acknowledge the slowly increasing number of physical aches aches, she sometimes travels to the Vale & Anfang, Gozka, Cloudsdale, the Zebra lands, Eyeraq, and Canterlot, in that order, to trade her knowledge for fresh tea pouches and new recipes.
 
When Spiral left the day before renovations began, he turned over command of the Fortress to Tipper, stating that she should do as she saw fit, but mainly to keep an eye on the Operators. Disgruntled at the sudden onslaught of extra duties thrown at her, she remains bitter towards the former Marquis' actions, seeing him as an unreasonable abject coward. Silently pleased at Dancing Eyes both testing the limit's of the Fortress's psionic interdiction capabilities and teaching Malyne her skills, Tipper has become highly concerned about what to do with (or, possibly, to) Roust, should the Vanguard learn of Dancing's capabilities and become hostile.
 
Immediately following Denra's 'party' in the Enclave, Tipper has been seen drinking from a faded white flask quite often, to some surprise. Mist Dancer has thus warned everypony to avoid her when she does so, stating that she will "NOT TALK ABOUT IT, NO MATTER WHAT!"
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a neatly folded white blanket topped by a shiny brown bandage, a syringe laid atop the latter.
 
*****
STATUS: main doctor at the Fortress's clinic, under permanent contract.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Auto-Regen+5, Medic's Intimidate+20, Basic Speech+4, Expert Alchemy+4, Expert Research+4, Expert Casting+7, Expert Recovery+8
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Grandmaster Diagnosis. By combining her experience, wisdom, immense knowledge of medical practices, theories, and facts along with her natural affinity for casting and recovery abilities, this allows her to diagnose nearly any form of injury, whether physical or not, with a [1d6+4] roll, giving her the ability to visibly explore a physical body for two minutes with an advanced form of non-damaging, non-invasive, psionic-like ultrasound augury. The higher the result, the more likely Tipper can immediately identify causes of injury and explore immediate or potential treatment options.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEM:
-Field Medic Saddlepack: a well-worn and faded gold saddlepack, issued only to Honor Guard medics after their completion of surgical training.. though the solar symbols have been torn off for some reason. Tipper has stocked her saddlepack with a number of alchemical concoctions, spider-silk bandages, and several secretive items that she refuses to divulge the purpose of. Grants a [1d6+12] <Doctor's Pack roll.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 2/3 Slots.
 
-Armor Charm: provides a natural +1DR.
 
 
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Vanil, Scout: 60HP, 0DR. Age: approximately 11. Month of birth: unknown.
 
*****
(Brash, Careless, Cheerful, Elite: Speed, Hyperactive, Inquisitive, Natural Enemy: Unicorns, Veteran: Scouting, Vigilant)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a squeaky voiced, quick-witted, athletic, and verifiably nuts multi-hued pegasus barely into stallion-hood. Multiple stripes of shaded black and grey across his body allow him to blend in easily during the night, or in shadows during the day, and give him an advantage when it comes to avoiding possible enemies. (Doesn't seem to work on unicorns, though.)
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown, but likely good. On Lucky's recommendation (and payments) of his new job as a Scout for Las Pegasus, Vanil had himself enchanted to move much faster than normal, as well as increasing his senses somewhat to compensate for the likelihood of danger. Vanil would prefer to avoid combat utterly, instead preferring to obtain information and return as quickly as possible. Successful on most of his missions, Lucky was contemptful of his attitude of newfound invincibility, and hired him out to Razorback, secretly hoping that he would, at the very least, be brought down several pegs on the chart.
 
Incredibly cheerful and bright, though with a smarmy, all-knowing attitude if he believes a tactical error will be committed, Vanil refuses to shirk his duties without reason, unless his favorite food is offered: baked shrimp-stuffed bread rolls topped with cheddar cheese.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a small red cloud with several lines of dim white string trailing after it.
 
*****
STATUS: primary Scout for Razorback Fortress and a member of Spiral's bachelor herd, under semi-permanent contract via Tipper.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Melee+2, Basic Speech+2, Expert Stealth+4, Master Movement+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Master Scout: due to intensive mnemonic retention training under the threat of severe flank beatings, Vanil may be called upon to scout a known location for it's layout, information on local forces, notable features, as well as find likely contacts. He may also be sent out to find resources and new locations twice per day, using 4x [1d6+5] rolls.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 0/3 Slots.
 
-Alpha Shade Drake's Core: adds +1 to all Perception and +2 to all Stealth rolls, but loses 1DR and suffers a -1 penalty to all Speech rolls.
 
-Flawed Tempest's Sigil: adds +2 to all Movement rolls, but suffers a -1 penalty to all Melee rolls.
 
-Shade Bearer's Core: adds +1 to all Perception and Stealth rolls.
 
 
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                            OTHER NPC'S:
 
 
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Blackbeak, Ri`Vahz's Enforcer: 230HP, 2DR (+4DR with Enforcer Armor). Age: unknown.
 
*****
(Controlling, Hard Working, Loyal, Neurotic, Patient, Professional)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a darkly toned gryphon with his feline half being panther, the bird half a crow, an interesting contrast compared to his dark blue edged, bright orange eyes. He has few noticeable scars, for an Enforcer, mostly due to his relative newness to this profession and his fighting style.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. While in training when Sevrit's reign was established, Blackbeak wanted to train under Sha'Ro as he wished to assassinate her at a later date, planning on gaining her trust by any means necessary to complete his plan. After Sevrit's death, he Was picked as Ri`Vahz's new Enforcer since his training was nearly finished, and had been untainted by Sha'Ro's influence. Also became the bouncer for Corvren's Inn, having been offered the job after being selected as Ri`Vahz's Enforcer, agreeing since both his duties: keeping the peace and loyalty to Ri`Vahz, were unneeded, thanks to the new Warlord being popular amongst the Vale.
 
Has mentioned a former year long relationship to the now current Huntsmaster of the Vale, Cu'Nir, when they were much younger. Although it ended peacefully and they went their separate ways, Blackbeak tends to unconsciously avoid being paired with her on tasks given to him. He will, however, reluctantly follow his orders through.
 
When he agreed to help Captain Swe of Razorback Company hunt down several gryphon deserters resulting from the conflicts between the Order and the Gryphon Kingdoms, he did not anticipate the revelations he read on a rune soap cube, taken off one of the deserters, after executing them with aid from Swe's ruthless and expert tactics. Reviewing Captain Swe's words, 'Deserters do not deserve mercy', what was written on the deserter's paper, and including his actions during Sevrit's upheaval, Blackbeak has has begun silently questioning himself and his place in the rebuilt Vale ever since. Unfortunately, there seems to be no clear answer in sight for his questions.
 
Is now second in command to the excavations of the unknown land discovered by Cu'Nir, Ghost and Swe, but due to recent hostile activities in these lands Blackbeak is on a constant hair trigger, to the point where if things were to go south he may not be able to handle it. After Simon and Swe's experimental breaches into the innards of the uncovered structure, Blackbeak led a sizable excursion deeper for some time. Although they encountered no traps, nor were any ambusher met, as soon as the excursion force left for camp they all collectively fell ill, varying from nausea to falling unconscious, bringing Blackbeak to a near breakdown from stress, and had to be convinced by Swe and Healer Sláint to take up a bed, leaving him winded and visibly shaken at his own leadership.
 
Spent the six months of Razorback Fortress's renovation concentrating the forces under his command to excavate the plains surrounding the main digsite, while prohibiting entrance to the now mostly uncovered pyramid, silently waiting for Cu'Nir to return and give him a concrete order.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Perception+2, Expert Speech+3, Expert Stealth+5, Master Melee+10
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY: Master First Strike (limit 3 uses, otherwise incurring -20HP damage to Blackbeak per use). This ability was taught to Blackbeak as part of his Enforcer training, a technique few know, and even fewer are willing to attempt. When used, Blackbeak's body locks into a pouncing stance where his entire muscular structure tenses up for a time, and like a coiled spring the stored energy is released instantly in a blast. If held for to long his body will begin to lose health as his musculature begins to deteriorate under the strain.  Roll 4x [1d6+2] to initiate, can only be utilized 3 turns in a row, suffers -20HP per turn after the 3rd turn. Can only be used every 4th turn, though this number increases if he goes over the 3 turn safety limit. SHOCKWAVE: an optional secondary ability used along with First Strike to stun enemies with 2x [1d6+2]. Unlike First Strike, Shockwave can only be used once per Operation as the production of the shockwave itself takes a heavy toll on Blackbeak's wings, and may only be triggered once the limit is reached on First Strike.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR: Vale Enforcer's Armor (Armor Traits: X/X Enchantment Slots, Rune Forged): provides +4DR, but suffers a -1 penalty to all Movement rolls due to it's weight.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Celestia, the Sun: 510HP, 3DR. Age: 25,000+.
 
*****
(Anti-Otherworldly, Challenger, Distrust: Explosives, Efficient, Gifted, Honorable, Mischievous, Natural Leader, Planes Delver, Polite, Scarred)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a bright platinum-white alicorn with light magenta eyes and a brilliant rainbow mane, able to meet nearly all humans at eye level. Carries a number of sharply defined zigzag scars across her back and wings, caused by an Ethereal Remnant in the Old Canterlot Ruins. Her chest and neck are pockmarked by numerous small burns, caused by Flowing Spark in the Lunar Memorial Village.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: formerly the sun goddess and one of three princesses of Equestria, Celestia removed herself from her station after allowing her other ego, the Solar Tyrant, to erupt during a meeting in Canterlot Palace. Once awoken, the Tyrant, confused, and enraged, split off from the body and mind of Celestia, having been created as a spark of thought long before the time of Empress Silver. Celestia went into hiding after realizing that her actions, and the Tyrant's, had caused immense amounts of harm to her country, far beyond her reckoning.
 
Spending several months in a secluded, isolated cottage, Celestia continually grieved for her lost adopted daughter, Sharonel, eating only enough to survive. After weeks wandering through the snow aimlessly, she eventually lost the will to continue living and spent a week holed up on the edge of the southern plains, hoping that her suffering would end. Answering a letter written by Filth, Celestia was stunned at his arrival, and afraid of retribution from her actions in Canterlot Palace. Calming her down, Filth requested that she leave with him to the Fortress, acknowledging her worsening condition. While hiding from Razorback's pony entourage, Celestia left to visit Luna in her Village for advice, then returned with Filth to the Fortress once more.
 
Although her initial reception was quite cold, she has chosen to remain and perform any action, regardless of harm to herself, that may salvage her mind and heart. Deciding to travel to the ruins of Old Canterlot in an attempt to find pieces of her past untouched by the Tyrant, Celestia and Filth encountered an Ethereal Remnant, one she had forgotten was called to Equestria. Directing Filth to the north entrance of the now exposed, underground third level mockup training city and arena, Celestia suffered under the Remnant's focused attacks, allowing Filth to set several charges to cover their escape. Losing her timidity to the event, Celestia is sure that there were actions she had taken outside of the Tyrant's control, though has decided to keep that knowledge quiet, for now. Unconcerned about her appearance, Celestia is worried that her past crimes haunt her still, and has been seeking evidence that the Tyrant was only part of her, not the whole.
 
Failing to give the unicorn and Crystal pony in the temporally lost mansion a proper goodbye, Celestia does not know where she stands, or what she is, giving up the last vestiges of her formerly formidable resistance to sharpen her terrible eyesight, taking the path leading away from the sun.
 
The shock of seeing six undead ponies during an Operation gone awry forced her to confront her most primal fear: death, allowing her to remember and release the essences of other planes she has wandered and visited. After choosing the Vortex plane for her new life's inspiration, Celestia became a Corruptor, focused on disrupting, slowing, and ensnaring enemies, preparing them for rapid and painless elimination, though during her visit to Doctor Harlon's lab, located in the ruins surrounding Old Canterlot, she came face to face with another relic of her past: the Rune Forger Suisan, Harlon's second love, now a Specter.
 
Unwilling to resort to violence with the chance of bringing Suisan to her senses, Celestia suffered under the raging gryphon's incorporeal attacks, all the while imploring her to remember her past with the unicorn and Crystal mare. Once suitably calmed, Celestia made the difficult choice of escorting Suisan to the Oceanlands, one of several realms beyond death, bearing the gryphon's wingblades with Suisan atop one of them in order to cheat the Ocean's requirement of being deceased to enter. Remaining in the Oceanlands for two days, in Tallus time that is, Celestia searched for Harlon and Rhoda amongst the millions of inhabitants, wanting nothing more than to reunite the pair with Suisan, now able to think clearly once passed beyond the living realms.
 
Leaving the reunited three with her fondest wishes, Celesia used the short remainder of her time in the Oceanlands learning from the earth ponies, pegasi, and unicorns killed during the Lunar-Solar War, until being forcibly removed and sent crashing into the Fortress's fountain. While she was unable to make contact with the Lunar forces she had fought and sent her forces against, Celestia is bitterly determined to breach the Oceanlands again at any cost, silently, immensely furious that her goal of making up for her and the Tyrant's mistakes was cut short.
 
Throughout the course of the Fortress's renovations, Celestia has kept little contact with Razorback, remaining in Canterlot for the most part, stripping the Royal Guard and royalty of their prestige, members, and supporters, visiting Manehattan and Detrot to do much the same whenever suitable. While consolidating Solar faction grievances resulting from the Tyrant's resurgence and her departure, she has turned her (admittedly changed, but no less awe/fear inspiring) venomous wrath against the royalty. Even though the few remaining Canterlot nobles will not, or cannot, support her endeavors, Celestia has become far more willing than before to place herself directly in the path of harm, and, secretly, wants the nobility to confront her in the open.
 
*****
HISTORICAL FINDINGS: 47.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a stylized bright orange sun with white and yellow flames surrounding it.
 
*****
STATUS: seeking a means to return to the Oceanlands at night, openly consolidating Solar faction business & grievances in Canterlot during the day.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Auto-Regen+6, Basic Cooking+2, Basic Resist Damage+4, Expert Speech+4, Expert Perception+4, Expert Shapeshift+4, Expert Alchemy+6, Expert Arcane Engineering+6, Expert Research+6, Master Teleport+10, Master Translocation+10, Master Enchanting+11, Master Melee+12, Master Casting+13
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Enhanced Lightstep: Celestia's time spent without the sun in her possession unlocked much of her resolve and will to live by any means necessary approach, granting her the use of 4x [1d6+5] rolls that function as either Movement OR Stealth, though the second may ONLY be used in or near sources of light. While she would rather deal with a hostile opponent honorably, Celestia has few compunctions of resorting to stepping back until she can speak or strike, unless the target is one she cannot face openly, but will only do so if there are no other alternatives.
 
-Power Surge: an early relic from her years experimenting with the principles and theories of Casting, Celestia may draw the vast majority of arcane energies in a wide radius into herself, temporarily holding them in preparation to greatly boost one of her abilities. Roll Casting as normal, total results -2 for each roll are added to each roll of ONE of the following skills: Casting, Enchanting, Teleport, and Translocation, capping at a maximum of +30. If used for Teleportation or Translocation, total results -2 for each roll indicate either the percentage, out of combat, or quantity, in combat, of items or targets marked for transport, as well as dramatically increasing the maximum traveling distance. This skill may ONLY be used once per Operation, may not be upgraded, and cannot be used in any offensive capacity.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITIES:
-Awe: despite patches of her history being a bit rough, or downright infuriating to some, Celestia's renewed presence, legacies, and power have drastically changed the way most factions see her. When encountering non-hostile faction members, Celestia must add +1 to all non-offensive rolls, but when encountering hostile non-Solar faction member members, Celestia must add +1 to all offensive rolls.
 
-Superior Plasma Vortex. Once per Operation, Celestia may summon a heavily modified plasmatic rift from the Sun itself for [1d6] turns, dealing [1d6+20] damage against summoned Planar or Extra-Planar, Otherworldly, Spectral, and Undead beings in a 30M radius, those same beings also suffering a -3 penalty to all rolls while the Solar Vortex is active. While the Solar Vortex should theoretically function against physical targets, it seems to have been deliberately calculated to ignore any living beings in it's vicinity should she wish to keep casualties down, although it will not cause the penalty if used against living beings. Celestia's concentration on keeping the rift open, and most importantly stable, prevents her from using any other abilities while the Vortex is in effect, and if Shocked, Stunned, knocked Unconscious, or attacked with enough power to disrupt her focus, the Solar Vortex will immediately dissipate to prevent any potential feedback and harm from occurring to herself or her allies.
 
*****
PERSONAL ITEMS:
-Custom Fit Radio+Headset: finished and miniaturized, as well as made invisible, by Spiral's Shadow form. Almost never used, however.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Delver Blades: two bright yellow 5' long blades, approximately 5" wide and 1/2" thick, curving upwards towards the tip, torn off a poison delver's spine. Highly resilient to being damaged, Celestia has improved on their functionality with her understanding of Arcane Engineering, and has gone so far as to sync them to her thoughts, able to use them as both weaponry and tools. May be used as paired Melee weapons, adds +2 to all rolls, grants an additional Block roll, and allows a physical [1d6] <Delver Poison attack. After suffering 3 or more criticals, the target suffers -1 to all rolls before the poison dissipates from their system the next turn. This poison cannot effect Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, or Undead beings.
 
-Harlon's Journal: the personal journal of one Doctor Harlon, a unicorn genius and a traveling scientist before he met Rhoda and Suisan, detailing his experiences on the road, in Old Canterlot, the Crystal Empire, and the Vale as well. Kept in a personal pocket dimension for safe storage. Grants an additional Research roll.
 
-Time Manipulator Diagram: a set of incredibly complex arcane engineering plans, made by Harlon in his Everfree mansion, for the purpose of traveling into the past. Created solely with anger and revenge in mind, these diagrams are technically useless in Celestia's possession, though she has decided to reach into her own past and attempt to utilize her former knowledge, contacts, and leadership capabilities to construct it, once she's able to that is. Kept in a personal pocket dimension for safe storage.
 
*****
PERSONAL ARCANE ARTIFACT:
-COPY AMULET: a small, dull bronze-like disc of unknown age, origin, and material, able to fit in an average sized hand. On it's two surfaces are engraved twin dragons, facing away from each other, though whatever composes the material nobody and nopony has found anything similar to it. Was discovered in a wooden box in Harlon's laboratory, though there is nothing among the lab's records on it due to it being a recent acquisition at the time of the lab being shut down, but was apparently purchased by a friend of his while on vacation in Las Pegasus. Beyond this, there is no other known information. It's use is fairly simple: directing thoughts of oneself through the amulet will produce a perfect physical copy, with all of one's abilities and skills for a limited amount of time. The copy produced will change depending on the thoughts directed through it, thus if Celestia uses the amulet, she can create a copy of how she is now, or how she was 1,000, or even 10,000 years ago, with all the physical traits and skills she would've had at that time. The copy has all the abilities and skills of the user, but is unintelligent and must be explicitly ordered to perform any action. Creates a physical copy of it's user with a [1d6], the result indicating the number of turns the copy lasts, but may only be used ONCE per Operation.
 
*****
PERSONAL RELIC WEAPONRY:
-Suisan's Dualsteel Wingblades (Weapon Traits: 0/3 Enchantment Slots remaining, Custom Fit, Rune-Forged, Unique Legendary Permanent Artifact): Siusan's personal set of wingblades, masterly forged by the Glyph Master herself in the traditional gryphon style of no-nonsense weaponry, possessing neither frills nor engravings. Originally custom fit for Suisan's wings alone, she was able to reforge them in the Oceanlands for Celestia's use, albeit not without a great deal of difficulty due to the lack of materials available. While a hard pair of weapons to master due to being forged from separate metals, both of which react oddly to each other, mastering their use has bestowed Celestia with great adaptability, making her an efficient and significant threat against hostile Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings, as well as most others. The left blade is composed of pure bluesteel from the Gryphon Kingdoms and the Crystal Kingdom, the right blade of pure greensteel from the Southern Plains, they show nothing of their age, thanks in part to having been undisturbed on the shelf they were left on, and also due to having the same form of glyphs that were used in the construction of the Time Manipulator Prototype, allowing them to remain untouched by the flow of time.. or at least suffer far less from it's passing. Adds +3 to all Melee attacks when used, grants a [1d6+2] <Frostshock elemental attack, and a [1d6+2] <Nature's Wrath non-elemental attack. While non-sentient, this pair of wingblades possesses a 'programmed' spell that constantly searches for hostile presences in the area, granting a [1d6+3] <Auto-Search ability.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: cannot maintain any permanent enchantments.
 
 
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Clúda, Former Shadow-Wing of the Overkings Realm: 490HP, 3DR. Age: 48.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/14ntvkceiuuqw7u/Cl%C3%BAda%20WiP.jpg
 
*****
(Fearless, Gallows Humor, Inquisitive, Piercing Eyes, Professional, Respectful, Tolerant)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a well built gryphon covered from head to paw with dark brown patch work rags, the material being a carefully guarded secret among the Shadow-Wings, now known to be the actual skin of phantoms. With skin from spectral forms being tight bound to living bodies it would naturally have dire affects on them if overused, to which this is where their training comes in. His only visible features are his intense orange eyes and a navy blue hooked beak.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a former Shadow-Wing of the Gryphon Overking, it's currently unknown as to how or why he is 'former'. Is an acquaintance of Blackbeak through unknown means, his interest in the expedition may have to do something with him coming along in such a short time. Has brought several of his former subordinates to help with security. It is hinted that the reason why he is helping with the expedition is for the untouched lands, and might allude to the reasons of him being a 'former' Shadow-Wing.
 
Has had his wings plucked of all their feathers by Cu'Nir as punishment for using Ghost as a means to sneak into Razorback Fortress to sate his curiosity. Now that he has lost half of his gear, his ability to fly, his black sand, credit with the Huntsmaster, and again Marked by an Ethereal Remnant, he now spends his time leading long winded excursions into the deep catacombs of the unknown lands, the spectral realm being only a tiny respite for him now. Spending the better part of 2 months mapping out the layout despite the structures best efforts at trying to disorient them, the Shadow-Wings have made a stable map for expeditions when Blackbeak "grows his primary nerves back".
 
*****
STATUS: lending a claw to the expedition Huntsmaster Cu'Nir is heading.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Movement+2, Basic Stealth+5, Expert Speech+4, Expert Melee+6, Master Intimidation+4
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
UNIQUE SKILLS:
-Shadow Dive: Clúda is able to translocate from shadow to shadow, whether from a living being or object, with a [1d6+10] roll that functions the same as Movement.
 
-Expert Phantom Eyes+5. a skill that all Shadow-Wings learn in service. Gives Clúda the power to see into the Underdark, Overdark and Spectral realms.
 
*****
ITEM: pouch belt. A common gryphon belt used to store a host of items.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEM: Phantom Rags: the stitched together 'clothing' that covers Clúda's body is made from seemingly worn down, dark and dirty rags that exude the scent and sensation of cold, stale water, in actuality the skin of a spectral phantom. They appear constantly water logged, though why Clúda hasn't contracted hypothermia is a mystery. Allows Clúda the Shadow Dive ability, adds +4 to all Melee & +10 to all Movement rolls, and grants immunity to various dark magics and Eldritch influences. Special Ability: Spectral Implosion. When in immediate danger, a trained user of the Phantom Rags can implode into a temporary form, similar to actual Phantoms. At the cost of 1/2 his health, Clúda can slip from nearly all forms of danger. This ability can only be used once per day, and will leave him in Severe Fatigue afterwards.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIP: is an acquaintance of Enforcer Blackbeak.. somehow.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Countess Folunasi, Demi-Proctorate: 220HP, 1DR. Age: 50. Month of birth: July.
 
*****
(Easily Embarrassed, Friendly, Honorable, Intuitive, Level-Headed, Minor Psychosis: Irritation, Natural Speaker, Noble, Peaceful, Polite, Respectful, Savant, Studious, Soft-Spoken, Veteran: Alchemy/Mysticism, Warm-Hearted)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: an attractive, middle aged bright neon green coated Saddle Arabian mare with soft purple eyes, a number of stress lines present, though she bears few scars from combat. Her mane and tail, both a vivid chartreuse, are constantly brushed and well groomed, her mane is cut to medium length, rolled halfway down her neck, and allowed to flop on whichever side it chooses, while her tail is left long and the end cut into a pronounced half-moon. Physically fit and in good shape for her age, Folunasi's fondness of sweets and pastries, particularly those from Prance and the Crystal Empire, leaves her with accentuated curves on her neck, stomach, and flanks. As a result, Katyal simply calls her a 'chunky hot mama mare'.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: born and raised on her family's estate in the Olvia Tributary on the northwestern Saddle Arabian coast, Countess Folunasi, real name Rain-Touching-Valleys, is an outlying senior Demi-Proctorate of Saddle Arabia's well known Circle of Assassins, a position similar to that of Master Thief in the Rogue's Circle. The young Countess-to-be was trained, as most Saddle Arabians are required, in the basics of mysticism, showing above average preference and talent for healing and divination rather than affliction or causing harm.  While she inherited the title as her family's birthright, she professes little enjoyment for it's duties or standards, and spends the majority of her time acquiring clothing from Equestria, jewelry from Gozka, food (and recipes) from Prance, and relaxing at her remodeled estate.
 
By far the most idealistic and non-violent member of the Assassin's Circle, Folunasi's well-meaning inclination of peaceful conduct has made her well known and appreciated throughout Saddle Arabia, Germaneigh, and Ewerup, always preferring to negotiate in a manner that benefits all parties involved. As a long time trade broker and third party negotiator, Folunasi is often the first pony called upon for her skills, especially in volatile political situations and in cities such as Buzzard's Rest, Saddle Arabia's second largest city, known for the notorious tempers of it's inhabitants. She is even more legendary for her deviously playful nature, being somehow always able to escape her Mareguards, constantly exploring Tallus cities without their supervision and potential meddling, even going so far as slipping away to meet potential suitors in private locations far from contact.
 
Around the same period that most humans arrived on Tallus in Equestria, the Countess was called in to negotiate with the elders of Imeron during it's dry season immediately after the appearance of a strange, well armed biped 'mare'. Quickly ascertaining that the mostly hairless smooth skinned female, calling herself Katyal, was less of a danger and more of a quirky, knowledgeable Otherworldly oddity, she realized Katyal's disruption could prove to be beneficial for Imeron and Saddle Arabia as a whole, due in part to the many Otherworldly or Planar dangers that still inhabited the country's outlying regions.
 
Initially taking Katyal on as a hired mercenary, both in order to teach her more about Tallus, to keep her eyes and ears on the depressed woman, Countess Folunasi was angered to learn how agents on Katyal's world were treated as expendable resources. Offering her friendship and home freely to the First Responder in the hopes that she could soothe her mind, she learned quickly that humans were much more amiable (and less snarky) once in pleasant conditions, choosing to make her employ permanent.
 
Despite Katyal's reluctance and many of the Circle's members calling the pair of good-natured but hedonistic renegades little more than lazy Discordites, Countess Folunasi became well respected for her renewed dedication and urgings to make the Circle of Assassins a legitimate organization once more, though Katyal's unwavering code of ethics, steadfast depression, and hatred towards those that would abuse their power and position for selfish means meant even though that relic of her former life was being put to good use, she was neither officially sanctioned, nor accepted.
 
Fortunately, most of the Circle's older members turned a blind eye towards Folunasi's activities, especially after noting her collected evidence that the younger Circle members in Buzzard's Rest had degenerated into little more than a self-serving gang of thugs, was causing political storms to erupt in both Equestria and Germaneigh whenever the mention of treaties or trade agreements with Saddle Arabia came about. After a number of incidents involving blackmailing, disgracing corrupt Circle of Assassins members in public, and outright stealing evidence of illegal activities, Countess Folunasi went before Imeron's elders, along with a number of like-minded Proctorates, presenting Katyal's history, actions, and incorruptibility before the gathering as proof of her charge's honor and harmlessness.
 
As debate between the Saddle Arabians and Eyes gathered ensued, shortly afterwards Katyal was granted permanent citizenship in Saddle Arabia, with all the rights and privileges due. Much to the others' surprise however, the Proctorates immediately admitted Katyal as a Soft Hoof, the first rank of the Assassin's Circle, under Folunasi's tutelage, with the stern demand that no human technology or knowledge that had the potential to destabilize the country, or Tallus, could ever be shared or revealed to any. Pleased, she obliged by accepting the Circle's proposal for Katyal, whom was stunned at the offer, nonetheless deciding not to challenge her marefriend's choice.
 
Believing that adding her own legitimacy to the Circle would allow for greater contact and beneficial trade on Tallus, Folunasi chose to seek ownership of her family's formerly vast estate in the Va`Sanuez Delta, a region that was once home to several hundred villages, also formerly a thriving training ground for mystics. Though the jungles and swamps had overtaken the estate after a Remnant from the the Lunar-Solar Conflict devastated the coastline, several attempts to obtain her family's silver leg guards through standard means faltered, her veteran combat entourage rebuffed by the dangerous reptiles and other creatures of the swamps several times.
 
Noticing her Mareguard's twin amusement and exasperation at the circumstance, she was surprised at Katyal's request for aid in hiring a human from Razorback Company, known in Saddle Arabia as the 'Lost Sun Mercenaries'. Understanding that a Razorback member might offer a broader range of capabilities and skills than Saddle Arabians or Eyes would have, Folunasi accepted the request, offering a contract through Captain Shanis of Tartarus Isle, a mercenary pegasus whom had the celebrated honor and distinction of killing the Solar Tyrant, also fondly known as the Mercenary Queen in Saddle Arabia, placing half a million Bits down for the retrieval of the heirloom leg guard. Along with the payment, a number of odds and ends the pair had taken from now-imprisoned, outcast, or reforming Assassins, were added to the contract should any other family relics be found.
 
Hearing that the contract had been taken while enjoying a pleasant night in Imeron, Folunasi and Katyal quickly passed through the city, though were unable to escape Thrill and Starglow's notices. Laying down in the hopes of taking a nap next to the Delta's translocation matrice while Katyal went to survey the ruined estate, Folunasi politely greeted Jeff on his arrival, finding his appearance to be of little threat, and was greatly curious as to how a male human would act and function. Noting an interesting lack of similarities between him and her Mareguard, she was greatly surprised at his charm and friendliness, turning bashful at his words and reminding (or chiding) herself to invite him to her home in the Olvia Tributary should business conclude proper for.. extracurricular 'business'.
 
Despite having to silently threaten Katyal into cooperating nicely with Jeff, the Countess, knowing that collateral damage to the old estate was more than likely a necessity, brushed aside her concerns as the pair returned to the translocation stone, alive and (apparently) unharmed, after an hour, yet still took amusement from tormenting the Responder's obvious lack of taking precautions. With the heirloom leg guards in her possession, a number of crested hoofbands and a personal treasury from one of her ancestors being retrieved as well, they were immediately translocated back to the Olvia estate, sending a missive to Shanis that the secondary contract award was to be delivered promptly.
 
Curious, yet unsurprised, at Belltower's impromptu arrival from the Fortress, Folunasi immediately recognized her as the Starborn's preeminent thief, recalling numerous Circle members encountering her in Detrot and Manehattan. While amused at the byplay resulting from Belltower's arrival, the Countess, moderately annoyed at Katyal's constant and aggravating attempts at flirting, resorted to pinning the Responder in order to shut her up, giving Belltower and Jeff time to speak, while also noticing the signs of Katyal sustaining the beginnings of an arcane overdose. After learning Folunasi's 'other' offer, Belltower decided to humor Jeff for charming the noblemare, and immediately turned her own silver-tongue on the Countess, asking if she would mind the pair having their Hearth's Warming Eve at her estate.
 
Unwilling to disappoint her contract taker or his mate, Folunasi immediately agreed, and as a side note began to understand Katyal's strange reasons for throwing herself at every pretty mare or handsome stallion whenever she was able to. Entering the Olvia estate with Jeff and Belltower in tow, Katyal succumbed to a full fledged arcane overdose, forcing the Countess to deliver the woman to her attendant entourage, leaving the two to lounge in her private sauna. Returning with an exotic dinner, Belltower queried Folunasi about bringing Malyne to the estate, both as a statement of good will that she was not under orders to spy on the Countess, and out of genuine respect; the proposal was, of course, accepted without a second thought. Arriving with Malyne, the four shared an exotic dinner, the batfoal's sincere, if strangely amused, appreciation for the food giving Folunasi a sense of ease with the three.
 
As dinner concluded, the Countess, on a whim, gave Malyne 'official rights of exploration' to her manor, stating that she could venture anywhere she wished and inspect whatever she wanted, sending the foal along with one of her non-combat entourage. Ensuring that Malyne had left and closing the alcove door, the Countess slipped a small blue bottle from her wine pouch, offering it to Belltower with specific instructions to only drink half.. ..while not one to be jealous, Belltower is still surprised, and a bit envious, at both Folunasi's 'goods' and experience.
 
*****
PSYCHOSES: Irritation, Minor. Although her peaceful nature normally keeps her mood in check, Katyal's constant flirtation and outright, to her, disgraceful manners tend to grate on the Countess's nerves quite often, and she seems to have little to no care in what methods she utilizes to keep her Mareguard quiet, up to (and often) including having to suffocate Katyal between her rear legs.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: two gold mounds with numerous silver droplets falling between each. Looks exactly what it sounds like.
 
*****
STATUS: currently overseeing the restoration of the entire Va`Sanuez Delta region.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Katyal Alvugarde: her lover and mentor. Also her sometime jailer when she gets out of control..
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Stealth+3, Expert Perception+4, Expert Movement+5, Expert Research+8, Master Melee+4, Master Appraisal+5, Master Speech+5, Master Mysticism+8, Master Alchemy+9
 
*****
SHARED ABILITY: Grandmaster Lone Waltz. Through their shared experiences on Tallus, Katyal and Folunasi have found that, although they are from entirely different worlds and upbringings, they share more in common together than with those of their own species. Whether alone or together, both may at any time sacrifice one of their skills to gain additional rolls equal to that skill's rank for the rest of the Operation. At this time, Katyal must add +2 to all Melee, Movement, and Ranged rolls, while Folunasi must add +2 to all Alchemy, Melee, and Mysticism rolls. Furthermore, Countess Folunasi's knowledge and teachings grant Katyal an active Master Alchemy+4 skill.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Master Warm Hooves. Countess Folunasi's protective mentality, personal combat-support philosophy, aptly named Sand-Denying-Storms, and her life long study of mysticism's more peaceful uses, have combined with Katyal Alvugarde's (mostly) useful companionship and knowledge, granting her greater effectiveness in supporting her Mareguard's (completely) unhinged combat style and (utterly) unhindered tactics. Adds +4 to all non-combat Alchemy, Mysticism, and Speech rolls, while also being granted a [1d6+4] <Mystic Divination: Bitter Secrets ability that functions against a single female opponent ONLY; once a cumulative total of 10 points has been achieved, the target will be stunned for 4 turns, becoming unable to take any actions while also being untargetable, except by Eldritch beings.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEM: Cruxis Hoofband. A rolled sheaf of cobalt formed into a well fitting hoofband, given to her by Katyal after being accepted into the Circle of Assassins, with the inside and outside ring flattened. The interior and exterior are both engraved with a ring of cryptic symbols, appearing to be a blend of both Saddle Arabian and English text, but only they know the meaning.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Erov, Taurom The Traders Right Claw: 130HP, 2DR. Age: unknown.
 
*****
(Business Minded, Femme Fatale, Formal, Patient)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a lithe, agile, smooth dark brown coated and crimson feathered gryphoness, usually in a state of constant purring. Her claws are a lighter shade of red, though often dyed like her beak. Her primaries are bleached a bone white, while her eyes are a solid soft baby blue. On each of her legs are pure gold bangles with tiny runes etched into them, giving her a boost in speed with the unnatural effect of fluid hyper-motion if being watched directly.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: came to the Vale and it's rebuilt city, after Sevrit the Bastard was overthrown, under her old friend's second in command, Taurom, a trader who grew up in the Inner Kingdoms with Erov. The two catbirds have worked alongside each other for the entirety of their lives so far, keeping an eye on each others back in the ruthless trade industry found. After hearing the Vale was liberated, Erov and Taurom shipped off to the newly freed region in order to capitalize on being the first and (through Taurom's cutthroat attitude towards business) only major Trading Post for the Vale and it's neighboring regions.
 
After being saved by Simon from a Minotaur mercenary during an attack on Anfang by the Order, and spending 'quality' time with him and Cu'Nir, Erov has quickly grown attached to the odd couple, wanting to spend more time with them and see where it takes her. For the past couple of months, Erov has rarely entered the Fortress, and when that event occurred she was strictly guided about by Cu'Nir. When back in the Vale, working with Taurom as usual, she has taken time to practice with her new wingblades that she had forged from the dead minotaur's axehead, and at quite a bargain too.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIP:
-Simon and Cu'Nir: after her time spent with the pair, she has quickly grown fond of the Huntsmaster, and desires to continue learning more of them.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Stealth+3, Expert Melee+1, Expert Speech+2, Master Movement+4
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Expert First Strike (limit 2 uses, otherwise incurring -20HP damage to Erov per use). This ability was taught to Erov at some point while she was still in the Inner Kingdoms for an unknown reason, a technique few know, and even fewer are willing to attempt. When used, Erov's body locks into a pouncing stance where her entire muscular structure tenses up for a time, and like a coiled spring the stored energy is released instantly in a blast. If held for too long, her body will begin to break down as her musculature deteriorates under the strain. Roll 3x [1d6+3] to initiate, can only be utilized 2 turns in a row, suffering -20HP per turn after the 2rd turn. May only be used every 4th turn, though this number increases if she goes over the 3-turn 'safe' limit.
 
*****
-Razor Talons: properly taken care of and perpetually sharpened, Erov's claws add +2 to all Melee rolls, and causes Bleeding status on living targets ONLY.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: ?????
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Golden Rune Etched Bangles: 16 bangles on the end of Erov's legs that, when all are worn, give her +2 to all Movement rolls, with the side effect of making her motions unnaturally fluid in direct line of sight.
 
-Pearly White Lingerie: one fitting corset, connecting leg warmers, several tail bands, (optional) wing restraints and a neck collar with small Kanpri ball bell. All made from velvet, silk and Bouclé, commissioned for herself and paid by Taurom. Used when certain 'opportunities' occur when it comes to practicing business, or when Erov feels a bit adventurous.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Searing Glaze Wingblades (Weapon Traits: 2/3 Enchantment Slots, Custom-Fit, Runic-Forged): formerly the axe head for a Minotaur mercenary, now reforged into thin blades to blend in with Erov's wings, some of it's original carved-enchantment surviving the forging process. Adds +2 to all Melee rolls when used and grants a [1d6+4] <Searing Glaze ice elemental attack.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Fuigah, Shadow Wing Seamstress: 190HP, 2DR. Age: 39.
 
*****
(Curious, Haunting Eyes, Helpful)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a female Gryphon covered beak to claws in Phantom Rags, the area around her beak loosely closed with strands of string, allowing her to speak while covering her entire head. Her tail, claws, talons and feather tips are topped off with needles and other sewing equipment. Like most gryphons she carries a belt around her midriff, full of supplies one in her position would carry.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: part of Clúda's following group of Shadow Wings, serving as their Seamstress. Is second-in-command under Clúda, and like the rest of the Shadow Wings has her motives tied to the unknown lands. Over the past two months she has grown steadily impatient with the way things are progressing, though is forced to hold her tongue so to not jeopardize her reasons for being on the other side of the world.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Medical+2, Basic Stealth+5, Expert Melee+6, Master Seamstress
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Expert Phantom Eyes+5. a skill that all Shadow-Wings learn in service. Gives Fuigah the power to see into the Underdark, Overdark and Spectral realms.
 
-Pin: when an enemy is spotted from within the Overdark, Underdark or the Spectral realms, Fuigah can attack their reflections by stabbing them with her needles, located on her talons and tail, immobilizing the target as if they were statues by using her normal Melee rolls. This does not cause damage, and can only Paralyze or Stun the indicated target.
 
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
-Shadow Dive: Fuigah is able to translocate from shadow to shadow, whether from a living being or object, with a [1d6+10] roll that functions as Movement.
 
ITEM: a common gryphon belt used to store a host of items.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Black Sand: a woven pouch of black sand, personally given to each Shadow Wing by the Overking as a reward for completing the task of entering and exiting a copy of the Overking's Palace without being detected.
 
-Phantom Rags: the stitched together 'clothing' that covers Fuigah's body is made from seemingly worn down, dark and dirty rags that exude the scent and sensation of cold, stale water, in actuality the skin of a spectral phantom. They appear constantly water logged, though why Fuigah hasn't contracted hypothermia is a mystery. Allows Fuigah the Shadow Dive ability, adds +4 to all Melee & +10 to all Movement rolls, and grants immunity to various dark magics and Eldritch influences. Special Ability: Spectral Implosion. When in immediate danger, a trained user of the Phantom Rags can implode into a temporary form, similar to actual Phantoms. At the cost of 1/2 her health, Fuigah can slip from nearly all forms of danger. This ability can only be used once per day, and will leave her in Severe Fatigue afterwards.
 
-Sewing Gear: located at the tips of her primary feathers, tail, and talons under the layer of rags is a variety of sewing needles and other various tools. As the Seamstress for her group it is her job to keep the rags intact on each Shadow Wing, or when needed, peel said rags off her Kin. Adds +5 to all Seamstress rolls - (NEEDS CLEANING) and when in the Under/Overdark or Spectral Realm she can Pin her enemies, impaling their reflections to immobilize them.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Cu'Nir & Simon: appears to be quietly friendly towards the couple, though this could just be her way of compensating for her superior's failures.
-Follows Clúda.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
***************************************************************************************************************************************
Katyal Alvugarde, Ark Initiate: 40HP, 2DR. Age: 33. Month of Birth: November.
 
*****
TOTAL XP:    92
UNSPENT XP:  2
 
*****
(Anti-Authority, Blunt, Bold, Careless, Direct, Distrust: Earth Ponies, Fear: Monstrous Beings, Fragile Mind, Hedonistic, Irresponsible, Lazy, Mischievous, OCD: Equipment Checking, Snarky, Stubborn, Temperamental, Veteran: Combat Rifles/Melee/Movement/Small Arms)
 
BIOGRAPHY: while she states little about her pre-FBI years, Katyal was once a Bureau agent, whom at one point decided to apply to the First Response Division, an advanced, well equipped unit specialized in rapid infiltrations for hostage rescues and other terrorism related activities. Formerly a male only Division, Katyal's acceptance along with a large number of female agents created a relatively hostile environment during, and after, the new mixed gender unit's training, or in her words: "..typical Old Guard Spies versus New Guard Spies bullshit with political skull-fucking as the side dish".
 
Passing basic and intermediate weaponry training with above average scores, she decided to take the position of emergency trauma medic, passing the course in the top 5. Though her superiors considered her well acclimated to the new environment due to her easy-going temperament and high scores, something Katyal thought amusing, she consistently chose to butt heads whenever the mistakes of others would prove distracting or fatal, preferring to keep her newfound friends in the Division out of politics as much as possible.
 
During her first four years in the Division, which had begun sending their units overseas to combat numerous jihad and warlord militias alongside military forces as backup and intelligence gatherers, Katyal's effective, but careless, speed-and-violence-only approach to recovering wounded agents and military personnel across the globe garnered her enough favor to apply for a position in the Critical Response Division. Immensely pleased at the promotion, Katyal shortly found herself under constant movement from hot spot to hot spot, and with the rare few times a decent sleep before being thrown into conflict was had, discovered that the inordinate stresses of her new position were rapidly wearing her down.
 
At this time she often slipped herself and others in the Critical response teams painkillers or amphetamines from her own supplies whenever possible, a mistake that would later see her blacklisted. Despite major normalization between the new and old Division agents, budgets for the various Divisions were rapidly increased as their effectiveness continued to rise, which also meant adding psychiatric counselors to combat teams during off duty hours. After a medical quota for the Critical Response Division turned up short, an inquiry by a hardline quartermaster was made to the commanding agent, whom immediately dismissed the potential for substance abuse. Although the commander was well aware of the positive effects Katyal's numerous 'additional dosage necessary' addendums to transcripts, he had little reason to throw his now respected agents to the political wolves, and considered the charges to have no substance. Undeterred, the quartermaster, along with aid from older intelligence agents, scrutinized the outflow of equipment and supplies until tracking down the sole unit responsible.
 
With her fellow agents suspended from duty, in court and under oath Katyal was unable to provide sufficient logical reasoning for the quantities of substances used, forcing herself to take one for the team and admitting that she was over-prescribing for combat trauma and stress related problems. Demoted from the Critical Response Division after barely over 5 months of service, her promotion and service dates were stricken from the FBI's records, and was sent back to First Response with numerous unsigned, undated, and unlisted black marks. Disgruntled, but still uncaring as always, Katyal immediately returned to service, and while happy to be back with her friends, she was unaware that she would begin seeing the same 24/7 surveillance at her former Division.
 
After three years of off and on fighting, small brushfire conflicts across the world exploded into full blown wars when small remote robotics, most with semi-autonomous AI's, went from ridiculously expensive and highly unreliable to cheap, rugged, and virtually impossible to hack. This made the need for cross-training personnel in the newly redesigned medical and combat equipment setups between the military and government agencies to became a requirement, forcing many of the Divisions to train with the new technologies available whenever off duty, adding tremendously to their workload. Plagued once again with sleepless nights, unshakeable fatigue, and constant stress, Katyal's performance slowly degraded to abysmal levels, whom began appropriating painkillers and amphetamines once more just to keep herself sane and able to function.
 
A year and a half of further service later, Katyal quit the First Response Division, turning to citizen life in order to escape from deeply entrenched guilt, several addictions, and disgust at the Bureau's treatment of agents. Due to the several notable honors on her records, she was immediately accepted at a regional hospital in her home city as a nurse, spending the next two months working without a problem. Finding herself feeling useless outside the FBI, but unable and unwilling to join again, she began slipping into depression, often going for a friendly local drink to improve her mood. With her outlook on life striking rock bottom upon hearing news of expanded military operations, Katyal began drinking heavily. Fired after coming into the hospital drunk, she moved five times over the following eleven months to different cities and different hospitals to avoid her track record from catching up with her.
 
Late one night, while drunkenly stumbling back home, she was fatally struck by a car from behind, from what she can recall. Landing face first into Imeron's sandy lakebed during the dry season, strangely outfitted with her former equipment loadout, the village's inhabitants quickly took Katyal into custody. Interrogating her otherworldly nature and existence, Katyal was convinced that she was having a hallucinogenic episode, and played along with the tall, brightly colored, saddle-wearing talking ponies.. until she became bored of their repeated questions. Deploying her trusted rifle against an enemy coconut, with hysterical effects from the Saddle Arabians, she was then secluded in a guarded cottage for several hours in fear of her unknown, possibly volatile capabilities.
 
Awoken from a decent nap, a bright, neon green Saddle Arabian mare without a saddle or ornamentation introduced herself as Countess Folunasi, and unlike the others, was merely curious as to Katyal's arrival. Confused and concerned by the quirky woman's story of her own death, Folunasi continued to answer her questions about Tallus, eventually deciding that Katyal meant no harm and was simply being self-protective. Noticing her depressive statements, Folunasi was unwilling to allow her be the subject of a mystic's interrogation, and decided to offer Katyal a job as a mercenary under her employ. The rest, of course, is history.
 
Having quite a bit of fun retrieving her lover's family heirlooms with Jeff's immense aid, her encounter with the Hookfanged Water Viper and the Swamp Prowler has boosted her confidence, though is still very hesitant about potentially entering any (and all) wilderness areas.
 
*****
STATUS: currently aiding Countess Folunasi in surveying the Va`Sanuez Delta during it's restoration.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Countess Folunasi: her lover, primary Mareguard, and soon to be... wife? ...maybe? Who knows which one even wears the pants...
 
*****
EVOLVING ABILITY: Hard Stomp. Granted by Empress Silver, ONCE per Operation, Katyal is granted the ancient earth pony technique that she dubs: "THE NEGOTIATOR", granting her the ability to either stomp a downed enemy or one below her in height, with 4x [1d6+2] rolls that ignore 1/2 of the target's DR. This ability deals double damage against fragile opponents and Undead, but only deals half damage to Spectrals. NOTE: during the turn that Hard Stop is activated, Katyal may only utilize Movement.
 
*****
SKILLS: Basic Intimidation, Basic Medical, Basic Scouting, Expert Engineering, Expert Speech, Master Combat Rifles/Shotguns, Master Melee, Master Movement, Master Small Arms
 
*****
UNIQUE SKILLS:
Enhanced Assassin's Synergy (Expert): adds +1 to all Combat Rifle/Shotgun, and +2 to all Melee & Small Arms rolls.
 
Enhanced Reconnaissance Specialist (Expert): adds +1 to all Stealth, and +2 to all Movement & Perception rolls.
 
Veteran First Responder (Expert): adds +2 to all Medical, Movement, and Scouting rolls. Twice per Operation, Katyal  may sacrifice two of V.F.R.'s skills for 2 turns, gaining a +4 boost to the remaining skill, though the sacrificed skills cannot be utilized for the rest of the Operation after this occurs.
 
*****
TRAIT: Grandmaster Lost Secrets of An`Meliu. At any time Katyal may roll [1d6+2], the result being the number of turns that she is granted a [1d6+4] roll of her choice that functions as any standard skill she is capable of performing. In addition, Katyal is granted +10 MaxHP permanently, and is conferred a passive Grandmaster Iron Will+4, though her complicated personality makes this extremely difficult to utilize as she must be suffering from a negative mental status effect for a minimum of 1 turn. Once per Operation, at any time Katyal may summon Grives An`Meliu with a [1d6] roll, whom will immediately arrive and remain for that number of turns, healing and removing status effects from her and any nearby allies with 2x [1d6+10] <Restoration rolls before disappearing. An`Meliu's physical presence also renders Katyal immune to all Confusion, Pacify, Silence, and Sleep status effects while it is present.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Hardened Responder's Leather Jacket & Cargoes (Armor Traits: 0/3 Enchantment Slots, Mystic-Forged, Unique Legendary Permanent Artifact): provides 1DR, adds +1 to all Intimidation & Speech rolls, and allows permanent water-walking. A lightweight, heavily modified, and well worn set of cold weather leather clothes used by Rangers on Katyal's world, numerous leather pouches later added for storing all of her miscellaneous alchemy and personal items. An ancient water-walking enchantment was the first addition to this set, granting the ability to walk, run, sit, (or even sleep, in her case) solidly on liquid surfaces without worry of falling through, and was afterwards reinforced with a basic armor charm, then imbued with a Lishanki Silver-Gift charm for additional versatility.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Arkadian Sledgehammer (Weapon Traits: 2/3 Slots, Arkadian-Aligned, Mystic-Forged, Ancient Legendary Artifact): Katyal's primary melee weapon, this is an 4' long, sealed and runed ironwood handle attached to a dark brown steel-like material that forms two square heads, very similar to common sledgehammers. While she refuses to state how exactly she acquired this archaic weapon from the Arkadian clan, the first of three offshoots from the Ferron, it's kept in excellent condition, and bears an impressive earth elemental enchantment, typical of anything owned by the Arkadians. Typically used for smashing coconuts open. Adds +4 to all Melee rolls, grants a [1d6+4] <Stoneshatter elemental attack, and provides an additional Block roll due to it's large size.
 
-Custom 6MM Haisel & Krantz 77PDW. A personal defense submachine gun similar in appearance to a standard H&K MP7, though this one uses a high velocity 6MM penetrator cartridge. Comes with 3 magazines. Adds +1 to all Small Arms rolls.
 
-Custom 8MM Magnum Haisel & Krantz KLR-73 Pistol. A semi-automatic pistol similar in appearance to an H&K USP-2, though this one uses a much lighter, higher velocity 8MM penetrator cartridge. Come with 3 magazines. Adds +1 to all Small Arms rolls.
 
-Custom 10MM Remiliav Advanced IRR. A combat rifle similar in appearance to a Remington ACR, though this one uses a non-suppressed 10MM penetrator cartridge. Comes with 3 magazines. Adds +1 to all Battle Rifle rolls.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Personal Soundstone: a traditional piece of equipment for nearly all Saddle Arabian natives, these bright yellow oval pieces of glass are created by heating, compressing, and compacting a layer of Howling Dune region sand, then enacting several rituals of mystic perception. When carried against one's skin, sound stones enhance the bearer's sensitivity to vibration, also slightly increasing visual acuity, obviously emulating the ability to 'see' through sandstorms. This particular one was created by Countess Folunasi, and while functionally the same as any other soundstone, it prevents feedback from loud noises, foul odors, and bright light. Adds +1 to all Perception rolls.
 
-Toy Castle: a bright pink miniature floating castle 10' in diameter, complete with an elongated mock noble armchair in the center for lounging, a small false moat around the outside for decoration, and two long, bright pink plastic oars for locomotion. Made from 5 millimeters of dyed rubber, these hardy and easily repairable novelty toys were normally bought for children of the upper class, though Kaytal requested it from a wish disc specifically for the purpose of lounging about in Imeron's lake. While it doesn't look stable enough for two at first glance, Katyal and Folunasi have used it to survey the Olvia Tributary on numerous excursions, also having enough space for several days of provisions.
 
*****
UNIQUE TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT:
-Atamayaguchi Drones: nine technologically advanced bright yellow drones, 2" in length, each with an integrated miniature video recorder for transmitting direct visual feed to a display & command tablet with an 8"x6" screen using a [1d6+3] roll. Created on her world by a PanAsian consortium that dealt with prototype AI and drone technology, these hornet painted drones feature a simple but effective hivemind logic program that allows an operator to safely infiltrate buildings or scout large areas without exposure to enemy fire. As both a safety precaution and a surprise offense, each drone contains a small charge of C-5, a newly created compact plastic-polymer explosive. Upon use of a vocal command, or from the tablet, the drones will swarm onto a target and detonate with a single [1d6+9] roll, additionally dealing the equivalent damage of C-4.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 0/3 Slots.
-Blind-Eye Chant: adds +2 to either all Perception or Stealth rolls, but may only use one or the other each turn.
 
-Corsair King's Siglet: adds +1 to all combat and Movement rolls when dealing with living beings, but suffers a -3 penalty to all rolls when facing non-physical opponents.
 
-Superior Armor Charm: adds a natural +2DR.
 
 
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Leaf Shatter: 140HP, 3DR. Age: 39. Month of birth: October.
 
*****
(Careful, Cheery, Curious, Elite: Thief, Inquisitive, Soft-Spoken, Veterancy: Senses)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a light yellow bodied, curly coated batpony with large stubby wingclaws and nubby fangs, typical of fruit-eaters, having a touch of a Romanian accent. The three broad, rounded claws on each wing are capable of being curled into an armored 'fist', allowing Leaf to counter melee weaponry and tear through armor, though not without a great amount of difficulty.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. Leaf Shatter is a true hermaphrodite, having both male and female genitalia, though is female in mentality, emotional capacity, and action. A master treasure hunter of the Moors, Leaf is known to hang around Las Pegasus for several nights at a time, learning tricks from the other members of the Rogue's Circle, expanding her repertoire of skills, and freely teaching all the tricks she knows.
 
*****
FETISH: GREATLY enjoys being bitten on the neck during sex. Otherwise, vanilla.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a pale, elongated flat-bladed leaf broken into numerous shards and segments.
 
*****
STATUS: an outlying member of the Rogues Circle, one of the few true treasure hunters and a wanderer of the Moors. Visits Las Pegasus every two weeks to trade what she finds to Lucky, Meridian, and the rest of the Rogues, as well as to catch up on news.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Lucky: formerly a close friend and confidante to. During Lucky's takeover of the Wards, she broke relations, causing a schism between the Rogues and taking nearly all batponies with her back to the Moors.
-Meridian Veil: friendly towards, but has not seen her since Razorback's second winter.
-Pikeman: unsure about, as she does not understand his history, actions, or motives.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Screech+4, Expert Speech+3, Expert Perception+4, Expert Stealth+6, Master Movement+6, Master Sleight of Claw+9, Master Counter+10, Master Melee+10
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Natural Weaponry: Leaf Shatter's short, nubby fangs are somewhat tough, and her large stubby claws are inherently stronger than most batponies, allowing her to pierce 1DR with each attack when in use.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 3/3 Slots.
 
 
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Old Horn, 600HP, 5DR. Age: unknown.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a 10'4" Minotaur covered in a shaggy, unkempt mossy coat from hooves to horns, giving him the immediate look of a plant covered tree. The only clothing he bears is a thick, tattered belt made from entwined nettle stalks carrying numerous bags and satchels, all heavy with healing powders and poultices collected for many years from across the world, making him quite sought after as he has brought back many from death's doorstep. Small creatures have been observed to have made nests inside the thick layer of dirty fur on Old Horn, the most common of which is a tiny Drake that occasionally climbs out to light Old Horn's pipe.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a wandering minotaur druid that travels wherever he chooses, leaving without a word if the place he has arrived at feels off to him. As a druid, he is one with nature and magic, but looks down at magic users such as unicorns since they tend to force magic to do their bidding, rather then work with as the natural order of life functions, leaving him with a bit of disdain to all magic users since the majority tend to have an air of superiority about themselves.
 
Old Horn has been a druid his entire life, unique amongst minotaurs, and has travelled across Tallus numerous times, even delving into separate worlds. This, of course, he highly dislikes; he would rather charge an army alone then go into another dimension willingly. Even with his hunched form, Old Horn towers over most sentients on Tallus, naturally making an intimidating sight to behold. Even with his passive dislike of magic users, he is still the embodiment of a "gentle giant". In his long life he has seen the worst this world could throw at him and then some, thus he has gained great patience for the "younger ones" and their bickering. He carries a walking staff, in reality an old, gnarled sapling of some sort, with floating runes circling about the top.
 
After Novus' physical death, he collected his Ka and placed it into a herd of nearby Pred-Elk. Originally intended for use against the Efirates, he instantly grew attached to them when he realized that instead of increased intelligence, it gave the herd of low-tier monsters actual sentience. After a few days of careful teaching they soon adopted the minotaur as a father figure. Out of them all, he favored the most intelligent and curious of the herd of the herd, Sparking Fleur. Waking up to what could be seen as a calling, Sparking Fleur then said her goodbyes to her friend Twisty and went back to Old Horn. The only season she could feel was 'Change'.
 
Becoming worried of Sparking Fleur's absence, so has sent Bright Amber to investigate, but was surprised to find that Bright too had become enthralled by Razorback when the Pred-Elk had returned, and is silently happy about this change of events. Adding to this, he has devised a plan of action since the original Efirate swarms have been destroyed, making him redouble his efforts on finding the Whitemane's lair.
 
At Bright Amber's behest, Old Horn quickly took ownership of the strange, abandoned complex in the Everfree, repurposing it for the Pred-Elks and studying what lies inside.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Healing Touch+10, Master Melee+15, Grandmaster Druidry+41
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: An Elder's Wise Words. Throughout his life, Old Horn has seen and conversed with many beings, both native to Tallus, also including the flora and fauna, sometimes Otherworldly in nature, gaining valuable knowledge in the art of disarming others with words alone, granting a single [1d6+10] roll that functions as Speech.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEMS:
-Druidry Baggage: sacks, bags and satchels filled with an assortment of healing items and other gathered objects he has hoarded throughout his wandering life.
 
-Pipe: an aged looking smoking pipe with a long thin stem and a (human) fist sized bowl, usually seen with pillows of smoke wafting out that, thankfully, mask his pungent, earthy scent.
 
-Walking Staff: a tall, gnarled living tree with cryptic runes lazily floating around its top, also featuring a hidden slot where he keeps his pipe and herbs hidden.
 
 
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Razeek, Courier: 90HP, 2DR. Age: 16.
 
*****
(Elite: Speed, Horn Dog, Hot Tempered, Sensual, Vindictive)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a small bodied, overly tan gryphon with jade green eyes and several noticeable golden highlights across his body, while the tips of his feathers are bright green and purple, obviously being laced with poison.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: Lok'cen's younger sibling, Razeek travels constantly, having been employed as a courier and messenger for Anfang and the Vale, sometimes delivering to Las Pegasus. Razeek has a short fuse, and as such he will spit and shout in another's face no matter whom or what they are, though he is reluctant to use his weapons unless provoked. The poisons lacing his green steel tipped wings are made from his own concoctions, mostly from the Vale and surrounding wildernesses. Each feather has a different effect, from physically paralyzing an enemy, to flooding the lungs with coagulated blood, and more. Razeek has made sure to be immune to the poisons and venoms he collects, but always carries antidotes, just in case.
 
Like (nearly) all gryphons, he has a certain disdain for unicorns and magic users, oddly enough this quirk extends to rune-forgers as well. His run in with Lucky's Enforcer, Pike, and her ward Meridian Veil, has left him with a bad taste in his mouth for the hu'um of Razorback, despite what his older brother says. He has, however, grown infatuated with a female Hu'um, Natalia, ever since she fed him and his family, and has wanted to "repay" her in his own way.. except for Lok'cen being very eager to cock-block for his own amusement, MUCH to Razeek's annoyance.
 
Long wanting to prove himself, once the opportunity arrived, in the form of going underground to explore the depths of lost catacombs in the unknown lands, he took the chance immediately. Apart from a single moment of being frozen in fear, the Fledgling stood fast till the end. Aiding Fuigah in carrying Ghost out of the catacombs, he then vowed to laze about in the Encampment for as long as he feels like it, believing he's earned it after going through what happened down below.
 
During the past few months, Razeek moved between the Vale and the Unknown Lands either running errands or scouting. Noticing, strangely, that he hasn't been contacted for any jobs from Las Pegasus lately, he's paid no mind to it. Recently he moved out of the roost (to Lok'cen's mixed feelings) to take up space in Natalia's Diner, where he helps her out whenever not flying around. Even then, however, he is still beta as fuck, and keeps their relationship platonic.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Lok'cen: for better or worse, younger brother to.
-Natalia: has moved in to help with her Diner whenever not doing errands, though their relationship is painfully mutual.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Bartering+4, Basic Melee+2, Basic Wilderness Survival+4, Expert Chemistry+2, Expert Field Medicine+4, Master Movement+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Basic Poison Touch/Venom Brush (PT-VB). Razeek's runic tipped primaries are dyed either a royal purple or a jade green to signify their poisoned nature, each feather having a different effect. Due to his intense speed and honed fine muscle focus, he can control which poison is utilized with near-perfect precision. Upon landing a successful Melee strike, a [1d6] <Envenomation roll takes place once every 3rd turn, the effects of which are as follows:
#1, tetrodotoxin: an aquatic based neurotoxin that restricts airflow by tightening the trachea and preventing proper dilation of the lungs, the affected target suffering -2 to all rolls the next turn.
#2, apitoxin: a potent venom that causes temporary burning sensations to the optical nerves, the affected target suffering -2 to all visual based Perception rolls the next turn.
#3, ototoxic poisoning: a result of improper alchemical testing resulting in an organic solvent that causes temporary hearing loss, the affected target suffering -2 to all hearing based Perception rolls the next turn.
#4, saxitoxin: a shellfish based neurotoxin that slows movement and cripples fine muscle control, the affected target suffering -2 to all Melee and Movement rolls the next turn.
#5, hemotoxic anticoagulant: a toxic venom that causes pain to the afflicted area and prevents the body from regenerating, the affected target suffering from Bleeding status for the next 3 turns or until staunched.
#6, neosaxitoxin: an anesthetic venom that causes the affected target to suffer -2 to all Movement and Perception rolls.
 
*****
ITEM: pouch belt. A staple for all gryphons, these pouches and sacks contain the antidotes to his poisons and toxins.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Runic-Steel Tipped Feathers. Razeek's specialized purple and green colored tipped feathers denote that they carry various poisons, venoms, and toxins, adding +4 to all Melee attacks.
 
 
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Ri`Vahz, Warlord of the Vale: 450HP, 4DR. Age: 32. Month of birth: unknown.
 
*****
(Brawler, Dislike: Unicorns, ELITE: Melee/Movement/Senses, Honorable, Hot Tempered, Mischievous, Purposeful, Veteran)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a white and green feathered, and coated, well built gryphon warrioress. Though an an Anfang native, Ri`Vahz has no specific avian or feline species traits, though her pale red eyes, despite being a colored daughter of two solid toned gryphons, make her a bit exotic to most catbirds.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: formerly a noted Commander in the Gryphon Kingdom Armies, after retiring from service Ri`Vahz returned to her home in the Vale, intent on recovering from the constant border conflicts. During this time, Lord Sevrit, disliked by most for his cruel, conniving mentality, challenged the current Warlord in a rite of combat for the title. Overpowering Warlord Sukal easily, Ri`Vahz, along with the rest of Anfang and the Vale's citizens, were forced to watch Sevrit take the Vale's throne. Knowing that she did not have the capacity to kill Sevrit, or his new Enforcer Sha'Ro, Ri`Vahz instead focused on rebuilding Anfang as a training ground, calling older warriors and scouts alike from retirement in order to teach fledgelings.
 
Fiercely protective of Anfang and the Vale, she is quiet and reflective when amongst her own kind, though can be unreasonably hot blooded in open combat, and has a blue streak of anger towards unicorns, particularly offensive casters such as Spiral whom she sees as insolent cowards. Her respect for gryphon fledgelents is paramount, often going out of her way to teach them hunter's tricks and knowledge that others may think they need to learn on their own. At this point she did not travel very often, preferring to remain near her home to defend against the Order's incursions into her homeland.
 
After Warlord Sevrit was put down by Razorback with Spiral's aid, to her immense chagrin the Marquis offered Sevrit's severed head as a truce offering, she could not deny that his efforts were instrumental, and chose to overlook his presence while he aiding in rebuilding her home. The Overking himself chose her to be the new Warlord of the Vale shortly afterwards, reluctantly accepting the position and taking her seat on the empty throne, only after the town was reconstructed. As the Vale's new ruler, she was forced to choose her new head Enforcer from what was left of the former militants, and after some evaluation picked Blackbeak, seeing how he was once under Sha'Ro's wing, but particularly since he seemed in no means negatively influenced by her.
 
Overwhelmed by the politics of being a leader, Ri`Vahz found respite in knowing that the relations between the Vale and Razorback were in good claws, even if said claws were the Huntsmaster's. Early in her reign, she still had the freedom to wander about outside the castle, treated as an equal, though, sadly, this did not last long.
 
The rediscovery of the Chamber Librarians was a surprise for Ri`Vahz, as she, along with all others, had believed the fires that devastated the Vale had wiped their order out. Upon visiting them, she found they were in fact alive and well.. (as mentally well one would expect from an isolated pair of Gryphons constantly cooped up in a confined space for years), though this only made her contempt for Sevrit The Bastard deepen, and she vowed to never share his interests or mentalities at all costs.
 
Over time she has steadily learnt the ways of politics and how to manage the dicey, frigid region despite her best efforts at not wanting to, silently reveling at the frustration she continually gave to her court Scribes and Wards. Her first real test as a political figure came when she was confronted with reports of Gryphon deserters hiding within her borders, and after some thought decided to send Captain Swe and Enforcer Blackbeak to eliminate them. Afterwards, she awarded Swe for his efforts towards the Vale with a permanent home for himself, to which he chose a tower close enough to the castle, one she was glad he chose.
 
Nearing her time of season that year and in perpetual stress, Ri`Vahz began to slowly lose touch to being on the same level as the average Gryphon, and at this time she was approached by a trader from the Inner Kingdoms by the name of Taurom, with her partner Erov. Using her silver tongue, Taurom quickly gained property in the growing town, proposing her business would shortly benefit all. When not confining herself to her room (and luring in any featherbrain dumb enough to join with a swish of her tail) she escaped the mundane experience of sitting on a throne all day by sparring with the castle guard to keep herself sharp (and to scout out whom amongst the Gryphons had the best stamina).
 
Being well acquainted with Ghost and Swe at this point, when she was approached by the Operators and the Huntsmaster to explore a Translocation destination found deep in the Librarian Chambers, she gave them the all clear notice, not knowing this would lead to a mass expedition later on. When Huntsmaster Cu'Nir requested to lead an expedition of the newly discovered lands, Ri`Vahz accepted, and shortly declared her decision to the Vale's citizens, entrusting the Huntsmaster as it's leader and tasking Enforcer Blackbeak as Cu'Nir's second-in-command.
 
Under her guidance with heavy clawed advisements, the Vale transformed into a small city, having a larger population since before Chamber Librarian records began, an achievement she knew Taurom Trades had a claw in reaching, despite her suspicions of the Inner Kingdom Gryphoness. A promise from Tuarom about "sharing the treaures" has mostly ensured the expedition was kept hush hush for the time being, from both the outside world beyond the Vale's borders and the Kingdom itself, Ri`Vahz not wanting to jeopardize what spoils could be wrought from this event. This has, of course, caused neighboring kingdoms to ask questions about why a third of the Vale's population suddenly vanished without a word, but with Ri`Vahz now well versed in political angling, she has been able to deflect any conspiracies pointed towards herself or her fellows.
 
Informed that Simon had returned to the Vale from the expeditions by his lonesome, Ri`Vahz took this as a chance to relieve some stress, only to be stonewalled when she found him researching the ancient ceremony called a 'wedding' in the Librarian Chamber. Thinking quickly, she handled the situation by sharing with him what she knew, then revealing what potential fallout would occur from such an event. Intimidated at the amount of attention this would garner, Ri`Vahz persevered, swearing to keep the eventual wedding a secret and only allowing the required minimum amount of knowledge about the ceremony to be spread. However, not wanting to suffer through her cycle, she cornered Ghost, attempting to force herself upon him... his response, however, was so poor that she internally decided to go as rough and long as possible on his pelvis. Thankfully, Simon had a lone flashbang handy, and with one agonizing detonation later, the green and white Gryphoness found herself on the floor of the empty Librarian Chamber, wholly unsatisfied and vowing to doom the first catbird she got her claws into for a painful night in her nest.
 
A month later, news reached her ears that a force of Mountain-Kin Gryphons had arrived in the Vale, seeking information on their executed deserters by interrogating the local population, though apparently all they knew was that an Enforcer, along with a resident human, were involved. Needless to say, their clawing in the matter did not go well with the Huntsmaster, whom happened to be visiting briefly from her times on the other side of the world, and as expected of her station put them in their place without laying a claw on them. After visiting the Mountain-Kin herself in the Militia Aviaries' holding cages, Ri`Vahz pried free the entire story; apparently, they didn't take kindly to their own faction being executed by non-Mountain Kin, also revealing why said kin had deserted. Placing herself in their position, Ri`Vahz became sympathetic to their concerns upon her revelation, and shortly afterwards allowed the Mountain Kin to leave, but granted a fair warning: 'do not rustle the wrong feathers on this matter'.
 
Feeling her world coming to an apocalyptic end, first with the Mountain-kin swooping in to cause trouble, a string of break-ins and thefts, then Anfang being attacked by the Order, all confounded by the fact that as days went on, the world halting wedding came that bit nearer. When the city square erupted into a riot one faithful night, originating from Corvren's Inn, the Warlord rallied her Enforcers and Castle Guards to fly down from the perched keep to regain order. In the midst of conflict, Ri`Vahz was struck by an epiphany, and with a joyous cackle rejoiced in the riotous battle for the remainder of the night. Since the riot she has begun discovering the fine art of shifting her work load to the Underlings in the castle so that she may pursue more suitable interests on the ground amongst her kin, an idea she wondered why she hadn't known or taken advantage of.
 
During the Fortress's renovations, Ri`Vahz continued receiving reports from the expedition's members as to what was being uncovered, and is understandably curious as to why Huntsmaster Cu'Nir has spent extended amounts of time with Razorback, although this has left the Warlord with a great deal of down time in Anfang and the Vale, reintroducing herself to her kin and the next generation of Fledglings that have emerged (also visiting Natalia's diner for once). Ri`Vahz has grown steadily worried as reports from neighboring lands tell of missing gryphon populations rising slowly, with rumors of it happening in Equine domains as well. These dark thoughts were confounded when one day she was ambushed in her own castle courtyard by a trio of teenage Fledglings. Before the Guards could intervene she greeted the gryphons with open wings, taking them into her feathery bosom with tears streaking down her beak. Sworn to stay silent, the gryphons of the castle are to keep the existence of Ri'Vahz's returned children secret, both for their Warlord's safety and the Vale's. With the presence of family close to her, Ri'Vahz has grown more comfortable with her role, and vows to never let a single disappearance happen in her Vale and Anfang.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Ambush+3, Expert Stealth+3, Expert Speech+3, Master Perception+1, Master Movement+8, Master Melee+8
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
STATUS: current Warlord of the Vale, spending as much time as possible away from the castle and reintegrating herself into gryphon society.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Ghost & Swe: respects them as Gryphon-kin, and sees them as highly reliable allies.
-Huntsmaster Cu'Nir: gives her utmost recommendations for the Huntsmaster, even though their past experiences with each other are rocky. Also hopes her attempted "liaison" with Ghost did not reach her ears.
-Taurom the Trader: is wary of the silver-tongued Gryphoness, though has decided to watch her from a distance seeing how she did keep her end of the agreement.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Anfang's Legacy (Eldritch Armor Traits: 1/4 Enchantment Slots, Ancient Eldritch Relic, Rune-Forged): provides +2DR, adds +1 to all Speech rolls, and grants a [1d6] <Anfang's Legacy ability: roll [1d6] when rallying Vale faction forces with an oath of "WE ARE THE BEGINNING ANEW!", the result being the number of turns any Allies within hearing distance of the Warlord gain +1 to all rolls, excluding offensive elemental attacks. An ancient, full body covering scaled armor dating back to the Late Dynasty Era, bearing a crest of five red claws slashing to the left, emblazoned on a half-green, half-silver teardrop shield. Constructed entirely of drake scales from numerous species, many of which are now extinct, and bound together by thin strips of a leathery, bright white material, similar to those joining Hatred's blades, connecting each scale together by a strange, glue-like substance, it covers all but the head, claws, and half the tail. Anfang's Legacy was brought to the Vale after the Dynasty fell by the first Gryphon Overking, one of Empress Silver's favored Generals, intending to use it to keep his species together as their standard of honor. The Overking continued to wear this armor night and day as the Gryphon settlement of Anfang reached it's limit, then commissioning the Vale city and it's castle to be built, and shortly following the two, numerous planned cities across the mountainous region and plains were set into motion, sending out convoys and flights to stake their claims. After the Black Palace was fully constructed and nearing the end of his life, the Overking chose to grant Anfang's Legacy to the Vale's Warlord, one of the two surviving nobles from the Dynasty, but had his personal weapons either destroyed or hidden to prevent others from using them wrongfully, leaving many wondering why his disdain for the Dynasty was so great. Despite all attempts, Sevrit was unable claim Anfang's Legacy as his own, making the Chamber Librarians think whatever consciousness inhabits this armor is either highly devious or highly scrupulous, and allowed Ri`Vahz to claim it along with her title without hindrance. Throughout it's history, Anfang's Legacy has been seen as one of the weakest Dynasty relics by the gryphons, with many claiming that "it should be more useful" or "could be better".. but those that have worn it simply smile, knowing, secretly, that proper timing and clever wording are far more useful than a call to war, when timed correctly, that is.
 
 
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Shanis, the Mercenary Queen: 110/130HP, 3DR (+2DR from Pegasi Captain's Half-Armor). Age: 24. Month of birth: November.
 
*****
(Calm, Efficient, Focused, LEGENDARY, Passive-Aggressive, Prematurely Aged, Quick, Resourceful, Tired, Vengeful, Veterancy: Combat)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a dark sunglow maned, dim yellow coated pegasus mare with moderately bright hooves, and hard, piercing yellow eyes. Numerous small scars dot her entire body, though her left rear leg carries a jagged scar, the remains of Kraut's ill fated attempt at taking her down. Shanis has begun showing signs of rapidly advanced preature aging, her mane and hooves dimming significantly in tone, and while still in good condition Shanis has been (rarely) seen to fly stiffly, professing a certain cold, crude enjoyment for walking around under her own power.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: athletic, coordinated, and vengeful, Shanis comes from a long line of mercenaries, and has continued this role as one herself, seeking to propagate her family's line with distinction. Her early years were spent learning the ins and outs of flight, pegasi combat, and intuitive command with her father's unit, the Tartarus Air Corp, and her later years undergoing specialized weapon and leadership training with her mother's unit, the Arcane Blades, before they were disbanded, which was reformed and revitalized when Zigri returned. Taking contracts across Southern Equestria, Shanis landed a number of jobs in Stalliongrad, eventually basing the Tartarus Air Corp there, despite the increasing xenophobia from the Watch Guard and citizens.
 
During an Operation in Stalliongrad, several Operators, seeking to retrieve lost weaponry and gaining information as to the events taking place in the Industrial district, took Shanis down somewhat brutally, Kraut nearly crippling her with a hind leg shot. Subsequently being healed by Roust and providing a small amount of information, Shanis, then going under the nickname Shandris, learned the Operators were the ones responsible for Hunter's torture. Refusing to say any more once realizing whom they were, she angrily demanded they knock her out rather than suffering the same fate. Fortunately (in her eyes), Hollow obliged.
 
While recovering from the event, she began trading information upon realizing that Hunter's employer, during his theft at the Fortress, was either directly Councilierge related or an affiliate, discovering that several Tartarus Air Corps troopers and numerous citizens of Stalliongrad had been used as test subjects for Bigmaw's new weapon. Deciding that the Operators, whom as non-native forces were distasteful to deal with, her vindictiveness was tempered upon gauging the strength of the Watch Guard and their power brokers, but could be used to purge the city of the Councilierge and their allies, should they meet her exceedingly strict expectations.
 
Taking possession of Sweet from the Watch Guard, Shanis refused to spare the Juggernaut any mercy, forcing her subordinate mercenaries to pull every piece of information, no matter how miniscule, from her skull, regardless of how she would be seen. Quickly realizing that Sweet had little concrete knowledge of the Councilierge or the Slaver's Guild's actions, Shanis ordered the interrogations to cease, posting several of the Arcane Blades at her cell with orders to ensure that she didn't escape, at any costs.
 
Passing by the cell one night, she noticed the Enchained pegasus boredly hoof-painting on a cushion with her own blood. Exhausted, severely frustrated, and depressed, Shanis broke down on the spot. (Literally) flying into a fit of rage, she spent several hours trashing the rundown warehouse, destroying whatever she could, ending up with one sprained leg, swollen hooves, and more hatred directed at herself than she ever thought possible. Humiliated at her seemingly endless string of bad choices and disgusted by her own actions, Shanis immediately ordered the Arcane Blades to search for paint and paper, then shattered the lock on Sweet's cell door, stepping in to, for once, attempt treating the Juggernaut like a pony.
 
Studying Sweet's incredibly wonton, lustful mood swings, Zigri concluded that mares rarely provoked her into a dominative mindset, advising Shanis to deal with her more often, whom belatedly agreed to begin mentoring her. At the outset, Shanis, then riddled with guilt, was continually frustrated at the Juggernaut's awkward, constant demands for pleasure, particularly by stallions, but soon became increasingly close to the Enchained pegasus for her simple, joyous nature, love of hoofpainting, and silly ideas. Before allowing the first opportunity to roam around the warehouse, Shanis joked that she could have all the mercenaries under her command as a single herd.. to which Sweet immediately and loudly agreed, charging off to 'greet' her new family. Stunned at realizing what she'd just caused, and with no means to stop the Juggernaut from taking a joke that she still deeply and seriously regrets, Shanis simply turned a blind eye to the events of that night, though Zigri unfailingly believes Shanis planned the 'Night of Everlasting Terror', as he calls it.
 
With their base in Stalliongrad's outlying Industrial District coming under heavy scrutiny by pro-Councilierge forces, Shanis suspected another purge, quickly ordering Zigri to take Sweet and most of the Air Corps. to deal as much damage to the Councilierge's infrastructure and ranks as possible, then evacuating the survivors to a previously scouted encampment south of Stalliongrad approximately 100 miles, then on the edge of the snow zone. Distraught at the soon-to-be lethal conditions once her forces returned, and with no allies to speak of, she was convinced by Zigri to attempt contact with Marquis du Spiral, knowing of his connection to Razorback, and their connections to both the Moors and the Crystal Empire. Upon hearing her brother's thoughts, Shanis, hesitant at having to deal with humans again, nonetheless conceded that Zigri had little choice but to accept their offer of aid, especially with the infamous Lunar Executioner backing Spiral's words after their visit.
 
Contemplating her next moves as food, medical supplies, and healers began arriving hourly, Shanis sent most of her scouts to look for a location with a warmer climate, particularly far enough away from Stalliongrad's borders that the survivors and mercenaries would not be under daily threat. Finding nothing after several weeks, Zigri received a note from an unknown benefactor, the Captain taking this chance to send Sweet along with several Operators to scout a peculiar island on the southern Eyeraqi coast, a portion of Saddle Arabia's jungles that few cared to live in. Finding it suitably habitable, and with a much more appealing climate than she had originally wanted, Shanis claimed ownership of the isle, naming it Tartarus Island after her brother's exploits, to use as their base of operations, and personally organizing the moving of all wounded, ill, and crippled once her new Las Pegasus and Moors allies arrived.
 
Less than a month later, Shanis ordered a message sent to Razorback, formally requesting that they eliminate Marrowgrin at his residence in Stalliongrad. With Roust's aid, (and a great deal of disgust), Thrill, Hollow, Jeff, and Kraut manage to do so, though not without a great deal of trauma on the Changeling's part. Afterwards, Hollow presented one of his horns to her as evidence, and with Shanis realizing just how personally invested they were with the state of her mercenaries, saw them as equals, rewarding them (properly) for their efforts with a box of null bricks granted to her by one of the Tower Guard. Afterwards, she silently pledged to pay Razorback honorably, fairly, and in a timely manner for their aid should she find more proper jobs for them to perform.
 
Months later, upon hearing from Hollow, whom sent Sweet to the Fortress to deal with the re-emerging Solar Tyrant, Shanis took off from Tartarus Island with Zigri, the entirety of the Arcane Blades, and the Tartarus Air Corps. Focusing on dispatching the Anti cores herself, with Sweet keeping the false alicorn at bay, Shanis concluded the encounter, defeating the Tyrant, along with a slight amount of aid from Celestia, by severing it's crystallizing head after the quick but costly battle, claiming it as her trophy and proof of victory. Following the death of the Solar Tyrant, Shanis returned to calm Sweet on her favorite beach, the Juggernaut enraged after seeing her second-best-friend Zigri killed by the false-alicorn, and subsequently revived by Filth. Offering her body, mind, and ka to the Juggernaut in exchange for Sweet's companionship (and hoping to prevent Sweet from losing her mind further), Shanis has, politely, stated numerous times that there is nothing truly wrong with the merry Enchained, only that she needs to relearn how to interact with others properly. It's... extremely unclear as to which one is actually benefiting the most from this exchange, however.
 
Settling Tartarus Island with both mercenary corps and the survivors from the Councillierge's purge, Shanis sought to expand her role on Tallus, due in part to both the Councilierge's hold on Stalliongrad and the visions she encountered when facing down the Tyrant. Designating the warm, easy to walk upon northern beaches of Tartarus Isle as a rest and recovery zone for those still afflicted with injury or disease, Shanis quickly requested the rest of the island to be surveyed by Imperial engineers, seeking a suitable location for a fortress should the Councilierge find their new home. Agreeing with the idea of having three inter-linked fortresses, one primarily for pegasi on the windy western side, one for earth ponies in the center of the island, and one using the craggy southern shore for sheltering those whom could not fight, the Captain acknowledged that she would need to hire her mercenaries out if she wanted to fund such an endeavor. Using the contacts provided by Twisted Wing and Spiral, Shanis provisioned formal contracts by using the Solar Tyrant's head as proof of her forces' prowess. Shortly, the Empire, Las Pegasus, the Moors, Manehattan, along with numerous smaller cities and towns, all clamored to have a Tartarus Air Corps or Arcane Blades team at their beck and call should the need arise, subsequently redirecting a number of smaller jobs to her forces instead of Razorback, a personal mistake that she has quietly lamented several times to both Sweet and Zigri.
 
A second base, from a similarly provided note, was taken with aid from the Operators, Zigri barely having to convince Shanis to hire Razorback in clearing out an ancient Lunar Guardian Armory and barracks in the southern Eyeraqi jungles close to the ocean. The outpost, home to a legendary, Otherworldly armorer known as the Arcane Atelier, capable of creating, repairing, restoring, or refurbishing nearly any weapon, armor, or building in seconds to minutes, depending on it's state, was seen as a blessing from the typically unknown and often annoying inhabitants Tallus. With the Atelier freely agreeing to aid the mercenaries, their nearly crippling maintenance costs subsided, allowing Shanis and Zigri to place orders for proper beds and household items for their newly populated island, letting them breathe, and think, clearly for the first time in years.
 
For a time, Shanis has seemingly become obsessed with treating Sweet for the residual manipulations from Marrowgrin's 'training' and the detrimental effects of her Enchains, ordering constant testing and experimentation to restore, or at least enhance, the Juggernaut's mental capacity, though whether this is out of guilt for her early treatment of Sweet or from true friendship is unknown. Both Twisted Wing and Naliyna, having dealt with Sweet several times apiece and contemplating the strange items that Shanis has requested each time, have speculated this to be the latter.
 
Due to the premature aging from being subjected to multiple Anti Cores, Shanis has greatly calmed over the past months, losing much of her formerly intense aggression and vindictiveness. Instead, she allows Sweet to speak for her at formal or otherwise important functions... mostly for her own amusement, as watching each and every single pony wind up completely dumbfounded, exasperated, or exhausted at the former Juggernaut's dogged single-mindedness and constantly cheerful smile more than anything else is, in short, far more satisfying than any action she could ever take.
 
During Razorback Fortress's renovation, Shanis disturbed at Lucky's incredibly aggressive actions towards the Wards in the Empire, realized that though the consequences of angering Las Pegasus's benefactor would be much less than doing so to Luna, understood she cannot remain outside the political field forever, and has sought proper training from numerous statesmares and diplomats across Tallus.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: the stylized Ace of Spades overlaid on a bright white playing card, the borders trimmed with black lace.
 
*****
NEGATIVE CONDITION:
-Accelerated Aging, Artificial/Unnatural: due to numerous exposures to Superior Anti, much more so than the rest of her pegasi followers, Shanis now appears to be roughly 60 years old, judging by the faded state of her coat, eyes, and mane, as well as her slowed physical condition and constantly tired seeming movements. This condition has caused a -20 MaxHP reduction, decreasing her Intimidation and Perception rolls by -1, and her Movement and Melee rolls by -2.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Research, Basic Engineering, Basic Alchemy+2, Basic Thievery+3, Expert Intimidate+4, Expert Perception/Scouting+4, Expert Speech+5, Expert Movement+7, Master Bladesmare+7
 
*****
SHARED ABILITY: Expert Penetrating Strikes. Shanis' long years in the field of mercenary work have given her great insight as to the weaknesses of most species, and when combined with her focus on targeting said weaknesses to shorten a fight, this gives her a significant edge over her competitors and enemies... even though Sweet has extreme difficulty remembering how to fight properly instead of simply trampling or headbutting said enemies. Whether Shanis and Sweet are together or separate, each may roll [1d6+1], the result being an additional amount of DR pierced or otherwise negated by all Melee attacks for that turn, useable twice per Operation.
 
*****
STATUS: currently the single most influential mercenary commander in Equestria. Living on Tartarus Island and consolidating a small city-state for those displaced by the Councilierge. On the surface, Shanis owns the Arcane Blades and Tartarus Mercenary Air Corps, though her brother, Commander Zigri, is their new manager and sometime leader.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Lucky: unsure of her motives due to Las Pegasus going silent for over three months, but formerly friendly.
-Razorback as a whole: has a tenuous, moderately frayed agreement with the human company.
-Sweet: closest friend, very special somepony, and now engaged to.
-Zigri: older sister to, though his distant mannerisms have strained their relationship greatly.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Pegasi Captain's Half-Armor (Armor Traits: 0/3 Enchantment Slots, Legendary Permanent Artifact): provides 2DR, reduces all Ice damage by 1/4, adds +1 to all Speech rolls, and grants a powerful slow-fall float enchantment. A black, full body covering armor made from thin, softened steel plates overlapped by hardened cotton and silk layers treated with lava leech gel, further infused with a Captain's Sigil. Protects from her hooves to her neck without hindering her mobility, and has undergone several reweavings, along with the addition of an ice drake's core, to make it much warmer and more resistant to cold and ice. Further improved by her unicorn cadre and fully renovated into a winter suit, the new additions now allow her to glide effortlessly in flight, also removing Movement penalties due to her accelerated aging. Also had the rear section covered and armored, mostly to prevent from Sweet performing any surprise 'attacks' while asleep.
 
-Snow Hood (Armored Clothing Traits: 0/1 Enchantment Slots): provides 1DR. A thickly layered and treated silk hood, custom ordered from Lann and dyed a matte black to match her armor. Covers her entire head and neck, and features a layered diamond visor, similar to human snow goggles, along with a pair of cute, floppy ear flaps for extra protection against the cold.
 
*****
UNIQUE WEAPONRY:
-Carved Serrated Wingblades (Weapon Traits: 1/3 Enchantment Slots, Graven-Carved, Legendary Permanent Unique Artifact): approximately 50 large, heavily warded and wickedly serrated wingblades, carved from a solid block of a specialty steel alloy from Gozka, used for open combat. While similar to most wingblades, these blades never seem to dull, and can slice through most armor with extreme ease, though Shanis is unable to use them defensively due to their thin nature and the multitude of serrations present. Adds +3 to all Melee attacks, Armor Pierce 1 (negates 1DR), inflicts Bleeding status on living targets ONLY, and grants a [1d6+1] <Forceblade non-elemental attack.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 0/3 Enchantment Slots.
-Dusk Strider's Vow: an ancient relic of the Dusk Striders, the first Lunar faction militia before the Dynasty had been founded. When in combat, whether open or not, against an enemy that opposes the values of subterfuge, Shanis gains +5HP/turn, also dealing double damage to faction traitors.
 
-Sticky: a powerful full body enchantment that allows it's owner to stick to nearly any surface, including cloud material, without fear of being removed. May also attach items to oneself for a near-permanent hold.
 
-Superior Armor Charm: provides a natural +2DR.
 
 
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Silver, the Empress: 5,000HP, 20DR. Age: 25,000+.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a giant silver earth pony, twice the height and length of Celestia when she was still a princess, though capable of shifting her body size or weight with little more than a thought. Best known for her deep, glowing green eyes, and double rows of bright white fangs, almost always bared with a lustful intent, Silver's only other known notable feature is her metallic skin. Before or during the Early Dynasty Era, a number of prominent alchemists from numerous races created a metallic liquid made from equal parts silver, diamond, and mythril, in the hopes of giving earth pony psions an effective material for armor and weaponry that would be difficult to replicate. The young Empress later chose to replace the entirety of her natural skin with the newly designed silverine, granting her extraordinary vitality and protection, at the cost of nearly all physical sensation.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: one of the five sisters, and the only one without wings or a horn, Silver is the first psion, and a primal one at that, capable of utilizing psionicism and it's various related abilities with inherently greater precision and versatility compared to the other four, yet entirely lacks the capacity to influence non-physical spectrums or beings. Although little is known about her true personal life, Silver wrote a book on the proper uses of truth, wisdom, and knowledge before becoming the Empress, while excoriating liars and willful malcontents in scathing anecdotes, praising the honest and humble above all, with a large portion of the book dedicated to simple, and proper, greetings for nearly every species she had come into contact with.
 
Before openly declaring herself Empress, Silver, along with great aid from many willing followers, constructed numerous city-states across Equestria and possibly other lands, dedicating them to all species, afterwards allowing and guiding inter-species relationships to flourish, giving Tallus unthought of heights of trading, industry, and philosophy. In the past, before her self-imposed exile, the Empress would appear only to earth ponies in desperation or suffering, giving them a chance to face their innermost fears on neutral ground, though as of late she has come to the aid of all sentients she notices.
 
While her power has greatly waned in comparison to the other four sisters, Silver is still capable of ruling, though politely refuses any and all possibilities doing so, having stated that she could not feel comfortable in such a position again.
 
*****
STATUS: formerly in exile. Now aiding any and every troubled pony across Tallus. Also takes some small delight in puns these days.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Grandmaster Speech+4, Master Creativity+40, Grandmaster Warp Shift+40, Grandmaster Melee+50, Grandmaster Psychokinesis+50
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES: ?????
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Primal Anti. Primal Anti prevents unicorns from casting, while also disallowing runes, glyphs, and all other esoteric effects from being used. Psions, Crystal ponies, and Eldritch beings ARE affected by Primal Anti's effects and damage, though the false memories created are wiped clean afterwards from their innate mental focus. Primal Anti creates a separate reality that is impossible to distinguish from true reality, and is virtually inescapable unless Empress Silver decides her target(s) have learned enough from their errors. A low result of 4 creates massively altered and horrifying false memories, the effects swiftly becoming crippling under higher results. Primal Anti causes tremendous electrolyte losses in the target's body, forcing them to suffer intense and continuing mental, physical, physiological, and psychological deterioration, though the mechanism is still as of yet unknown. Roll [1d6+3], the result causes that precise amount of damage bypassing DR in a 180 degree radius in front of Empress Silver. While active, ALL enchantments infused into a living being, on weapons or armor, and Artifacts within a 250M radius become unusable. Neither Empress Silver, nor any living being she considers an ally or neutral, will be affected by any form of Anti as a side effect of her intense focus.
 
 
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Sweet, the Juggernaut: 500HP, 3DR (+8DR from armor). Age: 49. Month of birth: March.
 
*****
(Armored, Carefree, Clueless, Determined, Elite: Combat/Demoralize, Forgetful, Heavy, LEGENDARY, Minor Psychosis: Easily Bored/Lustful, Polite, Purposeful, Silly, Simple Minded, Slow, Warm-Hearted)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: stocky and wiry with a heavy build, Sweet is the largest naturally sized pegasus in modern times, once rivaling that of most small earth ponies, but due to her imperfect Enchains she is slightly smaller than Twisted Wing, standing 4'11" to the top of her head. Her coat is a light, pleasing shade of brown, both eyes being a glowing orange with pink pupils, though the orange is unnoticeable at night due to the pink coloration giving her a limited night-vision, able to see roughly 50M. Despite wearing her armor often, her mane is noticeably large with multiple waves across it's length, giving her a cute (to most mares) appearance. Sweet's wings were modified with 50 diamondine studs, 25 on each wing melded in series to bone, which allows her to somehow 'connect' to her custom fit armor. For unknown reasons, at some point in time Marrowgrin removed her tail, then filed her teeth down, sharpening them to either prevent her from leaving or ensuring that she would starve without his or another's assistance. On a personal visit, Empress Silver created diamondine replacement caps, melding them to the remnants of her original teeth.. which often results in Sweet overeating, much to Shanis' disdain. After the completion of her first D.M.M.C. contract, the residents of Tartarus Isle, greatly concerned over Sweet's physical state of affairs, banded together. Shearing several strands of their tails to be cut off near the dock, then bundled together in a mostly sequential order, the resulting false-tail was then hastily glued into position during one night, to which the Isle, collectively, breathed a sigh of relief. Said relief wasn't to last, however. Upon awakening, Sweet's terribly incompetent memory continues to annoy the entirety of the Isle due to her constant 'discoveries' that her tail had either regrown, been stolen or lost and somepony had helpfully returned it, or she'd simply just forgotten that she'd had one all along. From far away, Shanis continues to giggle, secretly taking great satisfaction in seeing such delightful irony irk her kin.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: Sweet, real named Sweet Dreams, was born in Manehattan to Violet Summer, a talented pegasi artist with hundreds of hoof and feather-tip works featured across Equestria, and First Chance, a well known, respected, and professional gambler in Neighvada and Las Pegasus. Aptly named for the peaceful aura that ponies felt whenever coming into contact with her, this peculiar quirk was especially noted by her parents and siblings as they rarely, if ever, slept poorly, particularly since Manehattan's loud, obnoxious residents, along with the constant flow of trains and steam boats, were their most consistent complaints beforehoof.
 
Developing her strange, almost unicorn-like Cutie Mark while undergoing her first estrus cycle, Sweet, unlike nearly all mares, felt no ill effects from the process, becoming able to manage the negative effects through either calm meditation, or, even stranger, by simply not caring about the circumstance. Since her Mark's nature was incredibly unclear and could impact others in her vicinity, intensive study by a small Manehattan research institute was given to one of Detrot's universities for analysis, their team then accurately demonstrating that it represented her five dominant moods, of which the the white bed, symbolizing joy, was a constant aspect. In a formal letter addressed to Violet Summer and First Chance, Detrot's primary university considered her of having enough importance to warrant paying for an hour or more of her time once per day. After a month of thought, the family agreed, both in part to allow further research on similarly difficult to explain Cutie Marks, and potentially allowing Sweet to join Detrot's prestigious hoofball league.
 
Sweet's consistently bright, bubbly nature continued into late foalhood where she became heavily involved in hoofball, her larger body size and quick hoofed nature often making her used in place of an earth pony. Growing ever larger as she aged, Sweet managed to wrestle her team's strongest earth pony, the two nearly the same size, to a standstill at the age of 12, an event that she and her family were immensely proud of. A lack of significant injuries, stress, or trauma in Sweet's foalhood eventually culminated at the age of 15 in her being recorded as the largest naturally occurring pegasus in modern times, an impressive feat considering the massive availability of healthy foods and training regimens that all had access to, a fact that later on would garner much of her notoriety.
 
As public interest in Sweet's exceptional skills grew after scoring a major victory against Canterlot's professional hoofball team, the founder and owner of the Slaver's Guild, run by a Stalliongrad born earth pony named Stream Lark, along with his ally, a minotaur slaver by the name of Marrowgrin and a disgraced outcast of the Hegemony, took their interests as well. Quietly, the pair developed a plan to capture, indoctrinate, and finally Enchain the pegasus into becoming their personal, perfect assassin, and took advantage of a league visit in Stalliongrad to snare her. Upon their success, Stream Lark and Marrowgrin left Stalliongrad, the first's disappearance flagged by the Starborn and the Assassin's Circle, while the second was scrutinized by the Hegemony's Rangers, Marrowgrin's former unit.
 
Immediately after realizing Sweet's disappearance, the Watch Guard team detailed to the league's visit notified Violet and First Chance, then began circulating a missing pony bill across Equestria and the majority of Tallus, adding a 10,000 Bit payment from the Tower Guard coffers for information on her whereabouts. As time passed, and no information reached the Watch Guard or her parents, Sweet's loss was labeled as an 'Unknown Missing Pony Case' in Stalliongrad and Detrot, the news disheartening the many that knew her. The daily vigils are still remembered to this day by many of the older pony generations.
 
Approximately ten years after her disappearance, Sweet's first use as an assassin occurred in Saddle Arabia where a retired noble and former member of the Circle of Assassins living in Buzzard's Rest was found dead, the corpse thoroughly pulverized by what was suspected to be heavy hoofboots, and could only identified by part of a remaining tattoo, sparking what would come to be known as the Stalliongrad-Saddle Arabian Conflict. Though the use of her real first name was entirely mitigated by the matte black and streamlined diamondine armor Sweet would be forced to wear for the rest of her time as the Juggernaut, and the completely unhindered attitude, it later became the symbol of the Slaver's Guild to the initial few that knew of them. At this point, Sweet would become known as the foremost legendary being on Tallus, a name that nearly every being on Tallus heard of after this point (except for some batponies living in Moors caves, and a few turtles on the Eyeraqi Coast), and became far more discussed than even the sisters.
 
(As a sidenote, Nightblade Fankil's long standing investigation was unable to correlate Sweet's disappearance with her reappearance, as there were virtually no reliable sources of information directly from Stalliongrad, and especially not those affiliated with the Councilierge, rendering Sweet's appearances little more than strange, dissonant, and sad footnotes in his journals.)
 
Brought along by Jeff, Twisted Wing, Clemency, Jeff, Filth, Natalia, and Void entered Anfang on Belltower's request to seek out Tuarom, a well known gryphon shaman to the Starborn, and survey the locals as the Ferron clan once had relations with the outlying city, though Sweet and Marrowgrin, the pair having traveled there at least a day before for reasons that are still as of yet unknown, were watching from the north. Sweet seemed to have completely lost her mind at this point, throwing a tantrum and even managing to threaten Marrowgrin into submission, not before he retaliated with what appeared to be a highly despondent kick. Approaching the six, much too late for them to slip away (mostly due to Void lollygagging and possibly not taking the situation seriously), Sweet, somehow having already known of Kroza's demise, immediately challenged them... in her own peculiar manner, of course). Demanding they either get fucked or fuck her, Sweet suspended the five Operators and Twisted with Anti for some time, shrugging off their ranged weaponry without so much as a trace of concern, the Executioner becoming violently, but shortly, ill after contact. Tiring of her shit, Jeff, Clemency, and Filth took her words seriously (and literally), rushing in to jam their personal weaponry into any hole that they would be accepted, pleasuring the crazed pegasus into submission. Suitably calmed and seemingly no longer hostile, Sweet's memory immediately began faltering while the Operators tried to pry information from her, half of which was obviously wrong, the other half too fragmented to make much sense. Considering the situation for a time, Jeff chose to bring her to the Fortress for future use, though Twisted initially rejected the proposal, giving in to prevent from dealing with Sweet any longer. Filth, however, had other, more temporary plans, allowing her into the Fortress and bringing her into Charlie's Lockers for some 'fun'. The plan, however, didn't involve him being anal vored by an acid Enchained pegasus the size of an earth pony and subsequently being used as an artificial tail. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on a human's view), Lont arrived in time to pull the plug out, burying a mace in her ass, three iron dongs in her twat, and finally depositing two bullets from his Mosin-Nagant pistol with no intent to remove them, leaving her unconscious for several hours.
 
Building a stockade to contain her, after completing it Spiral remarked to Jeff on the negative effects of Anti at close range, even without her being conscious, teleporting the trapped Juggernaut to the pagoda. Enlisting the aid of Hollow, Kraut, Filth, and Vanil, Spiral sent Sweet to the lower Stalliongrad Market stone, then translocated the small team to an overlook south the Markets to survey her acquisition by the Watch Guard. Making notes of the late night earth pony mercenary and Watch Guard patrols, the appearance of a minotaur carrying a large axe and a bluesteel shield along with an armored pony was given a thorough examination, although Spiral was unable to conclude much about either. Leaving as Sweet was being transferred to the Industrial Sector under guard, the team returned to the Fortress with a wealth of information as to Stalliongrad's movements.
 
After advisement from the minotaur, later found to be Skullcracker, Sweet was turned over to Shanis for interrogation, although she doesn't quite know why the Juggernaut wasn't taken to Dancing Eyes instead. After several days of interrogation, Shanis ordered Sweet's full plate armor to be removed from her body, including the Anti-empowering mask. Barely successful with the task, Shanis's unicorn allies then improved the muzzle portion to allow her to speak normally, modifying a section of the eyes to be transparent which would allow Sweet to see normally, though she still prefers dark conditions due to her poor eyesight. The segmented plating covering her anus and vagina, as well as the internal sections of her armor, have been stripped of the small tearing hooks, Shanis ordering said implements to be turned into a small plaque, then sent it to Razorback as a gift and an offer of continued information sharing.
 
Arriving to survey the mercenary encampment south of Stalliongrad, Empress Silver, deeply disturbed by Sweet's seemingly unnatural nature, taught her how to properly utilize Anti and protect her own allies from it, preferring that the former Juggernaut be responsible with such a dangerous ability, then created replacement diamondine caps for her teeth, melding them in afterwards. Greatly displeased at the poor conditions and treatment by the descendants of those from her own hoof-wrought shining city, Silver silently declared that no psion would be allowed to target Sweet or her allies if their intentions and actions were peaceful, further enforcing her edict with a resolute promise of death, or worse, should it be broken.
 
Despite (usually) knowing what a joke is, Sweet claimed the entirety of Tartarus Mercenary Air Corps and the Arcane Blades as her herd... to Shanis' partial disdain. While undergoing the second part of Shanis' extensive but simple education, Sweet began to consider Shanis far more than a marefriend due to her continuing refusal to challenge that claim. The truth, at least from what she has told Zigri, was that she was joking when she said it, wanting to see and hear what Shanis would do and say. Meditating on her words very carefully, Zigri believes that Sweet's mind is merely fragmented, not simply torn apart or lost as was originally thought, and speculates that if Sweet focuses enough she can still function properly for short periods of time.
 
With the entire host of Tartaus Isle mercenaries backing her, Sweet aided in the defeat of the Solar Tyrant at Razorback Fortress by shattering it's body to prevent it from reforming, her mind at this point somehow fully active while in confrontation with another form of Anti. Returning, Sweet was on the verge of a final breakdown, close to truly losing her mind again after seeing Zigri dead, his subsequent revival by Filth's sunstone worsening the barely understood turmoil she was experiencing. Comforted by Shanis for several hours, Sweet finally gave in to her marefriend's silent urgings, and reciprocated the Captain's offer of her company in exchange for being nicer and more polite to her herd. (It's highly unclear as to which of them actually benefits MORE from this arrangement, however...)
 
Since most ponies tend not to change their minds very easily, her training as an interrogator by Marrowgrin in Stalliongrad still makes her feared by all, though the mental programming, torture techniques, and the taught wonton sadistic nature have been nearly forgotten, or, as Zigri suspects, suppressed by Sweet herself. Making this fact even more difficult to counter is that Sweet cannot remember how old she is from minute to minute, as her memory is notoriously and completely untrustworthy. Most simple details are lost on her, hence why Marrowgin seemed to barely keep her in line, further adding to the former Juggernaut's notoriety. While the Enchains have changed her physical features far beyond what they once were, the incredible shifts to her mentality and mind appear to be slowly recovering or being negated due to Shanis using her newfound power and extensive reach, allowing her to hire some of the most prominent unicorns to understand, research, and hopefully repair, or at the least lessen, some of the damage from her former life.
 
Where Sweet once preferred to torment and inflict pain on others, she is easily persuaded to back down from violence with significant promises of pleasure or food, but (to the surprise of nopony and no one) often forgets they were ever made. When bored, she usually give into her first thought of sex, but will not accept any painful activities since they only cause her disgust. Used to enjoy being dominated sexually, Sweet swings both ways to suit her whims... which change constantly and in (often) unexpected means. Unfortunately for some, her mentality is still based around how much lust she feels at any point in time, but rarely becomes reluctant to continue with a lesson or task at hoof, instead politely asking for attention and company. Due to her simple mindedness, this can be anything from having her ears rubbed, being brushed, or simply cuddling with a friend, as she makes few distinctions between the varying levels and forms of pleasure. It must be noted, however, that Sweet generally doesn't care what's going on, and will get herself lost for weeks on end roaming around if she can. It greatly helps that she heals unnaturally quick, and can eat most forms of plant life without ill effects.
 
Despite her whimsical, air-headed, and mostly clueless nature, Zigri has noticed Sweet silently leave Tartarus Island to several locations, notably Loriat Cave, now the home of the changed ponies formerly living in Tanviya, Imeron, Khahlani Island, Dragonspine Peak, and even Gryphon Vale, during the renovation of Razorback Fortress. Unwilling to draw attention to her exploration, he has given orders to the Arcane Blades and Tartarus Air Corps. to ignore her activities unless Shanis or her personal guards are awake, as he does not trust their motives.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: a white, ornate, and frilly round bed with a red cat facing up, a blue rabbit facing down, a green snake facing right, and a pink sheep facing left. Each animal directly represents Sweet's four mentalities, and when her mind shifts, so too do the color of her eyes, though she is unable to switch between her mentalities at will. The pink sheep signifies Sweet's (normally) curious, kind, and all around sweet nature, preferring to wander or explore new locations, and visit her friends when she feels like it. The rabbit signifies Sweet's intense sex drive and near-instant arousal, though she can be easily persuaded into accepting a hug or other non-sexual actions easily. The red cat signifies enhanced aggression and rage, allowing her to utilize Berserk at will, but locks out the use of Anti. The green snake signifies venomous hatred and spite, allowing her to utilize Anti at will, but locks out the use of Berserk.
 
*****
STATUS: currently living with Captain Shanis on Tartarus Island, but often wanders off to explore when she gets bored. Also trying to figure out the best way to add a gelatinously jiggling pony to her herd.. WITHOUT pissing Shanis off even more than she already has.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Enjoys having 'fun' with the Operators.. in both meanings of the word.
-Shanis: best friend, special somepony, and now engaged to her.. for whatever THAT'S going to cause.
-Zigri: painfully clueless to his dislike, though often tries to convince him to sleep with her and Shanis. (He's still not sure whether Sweet understands, or is trying to encourage, the concept of incest though.)
 
*****
ARMORED Abilities: Perception+3, Resist Damage+11, Heavy Stomp/Wing(s)+9, Basic Thievery+2, Expert Movement+4 (once every 3rd turn), Expert Demoralize+4, Master Melee+9
 
UNARMORED Abilities: Perception+3, Resist Damage+5, Heavy Stomp+18, Basic Thievery+2, Expert Movement+4, Master Demoralize+4, Master Melee+19
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Crushing Force: rendered stronger than nearly any other mortal pony, and heavier by numerous Enchains as well as implementation of diamondine directly into her body, Sweet's own weight is a weapon in itself, allowing her to cause significant kinetic trauma whenever striking an opponent. Grants a [1d6+9] <Crushing Force ability when unarmored, or a [1d6+18] <Enhanced Crushing Force ability when armored. Due to her weight, Sweet should neither be able to swim nor fly, yet is allowed to by two of her Enchains.
 
-Enhanced AutoRegen: numerous Enchains of regeneration grant Sweet exceptional vitality, unnaturally fast regeneration from physical harm, also giving her body a remarkable amount of.. 'stretchiness'. Immune to all physical poisons & toxins, automatically recovers 50HP every 3rd turn... and allows other things that are best not described here.
 
-Grandmaster Berserk: ONCE per Operation, Sweet may roll 4x [1d6]'s; for each critical Sweet gains +5 to all Melee rolls, capping at a maximum of +10.
 
*****
SHARED ABILITY: Expert Sweet's Dreams. A powerful side-effect from the Anti Core, the first item to be Enchained to Sweet, innately protects Shanis, her mind, and those of ALL Friendly and Allied living beings from any form of Anti, also preventing damage and negative effects simply by being nearby, also preventing mental intrusions focused on herself and Shanis, whether psionic, Otherworldly, Planar, or Spectral in nature. With Sweet's awareness of her former actions, deepened focus, loving relationship with Shanis, and teachings from the Empress, she has gained an increasingly stable, warm-hearted sub-mentality, allowing her to shift the Anti Core's natural side effects into being much more pleasant: friendly and allied living beings sleep much more easily, waking up fully rested without suffering from nightmares, aches, or the effects resulting from post-traumatic stress disorder. When waking, each Ally must roll a [1d6] <Sweetened Dreams, the result being the number of turns that they are capable of performing tasks with greater energy, adding +1 to all rolls, though this effect is doubled to Shanis.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Anti. Roll [1d6], the result causes that precise amount of damage bypassing DR in a 90 degree radius (with mask, non-transparent), or 180 degree radius (with mask transparent, or without mask). While active, all friendly/enemy enchantments and artifacts become unusable, while also preventing unicorns from casting. Psions, Crystal ponies, and Eldritch beings, however, are unaffected by Anti's effects, as their memories are wiped clean afterwards from their mental focus, though they still take damage. Anti creates a pseudo-reality that, when used on a target, is impossible to distinguish from reality and normally inescapable unless the user is entirely disrupted. A typical roll of 1 results in seemingly normal memories being twisted into painful re-imaginations or causing vivid hallucinations, with progressively devastating effects from higher results. Anti causes massive electrolyte losses in the target's body, forcing them to suffer continuing mental and physical deterioration. The exact cause and mechanism of Anti is as of yet unknown, and is equally puzzling as to why, and how, it can even function on some nonliving beings.
 
*****
UNIQUE ARMOR:
-Black Diamondine Juggernaut's Armor (Traits: 1/3 Enchantment Slots, Crystal-Forged, Custom-Fit, Notorious, Unique Legendary Permanent Artifact): provides +8DR, adds +2 to all Demoralize rolls, but reduces all Melee rolls by -9 due to it's immense weight. A full body, stained matte black segmented diamondine armor, a little over an inch thick, custom made for Sweet's exceptional body size and wings. This armor is resilient enough to shrug off most attacks, and is segmented, as well as streamlined, to allow rapid movement and ease of mobility. Extraordinarily heavy as it weighs close to 900 pounds, Sweet is entirely unable to fly due to it's weight, though due to her immense strength she suffers no loss of mobility.. what little she has, that is. Notoriously difficult to damage for long as the armor will quickly auto0repair itself, it comes with a full head mask, the ears dotted with numerous pinholes to allow her to hear normally, while the muzzle section is covered in small, shark-like teeth decorations, intended to evoke a fear response from most living beings. The lower jaw section was modified to be able to drop down, allowing Sweet to speak clearly without being muffled, also letting her eat or drink whatever she wants with it on. The wings are capable of being folded or moved to nearly full extension, the joints mimicking a swivel, allowing their use as independent weapons.. if Sweet even remembers that she can do so. The small, heavily armored eye slots are capable of turning transparent, allowing Sweet to utilize Anti in a 180 degree radius, AND, most importantly: see out of.
 
*****
ENCHAINS:
-Anti Core: allows use of the [1d6] <Anti ability, and can protect nearby Friendly and Allied beings from Anti's damage and side-effects.
 
 
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Tacit, Enforcer: 180HP, 4DR. Age: 32. Month of birth: June.
 
*****
(Blunt, Cunning, Direct, Droll Wit, Humorous, Steadfast)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a muscular, full body dim red earth pony with a serious, yet comically dull, attitude, nearly the exact opposite of Kend.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. After aiding Brenx in stealing the explosives crate near the Crystal Empire, then transporting it to an abandoned mail facility in Stalliongrad, the Operators arrived to search for their stolen goods. With Tacit and Kend beginning to realize that Brenx would likely get both of them killed, they were accosted by the Operators, whom demanded the return of their weaponry, and eventually convincing the three earth ponies to provide the muscle to push the crate to the translocation stone, afterwards leaving him and Tacit alive, and unharmed. Shortly afterwards, Tacit and Kend piled on Brenx with great relish, beating him nearly to death and leaving him in a cesspool in Stalliongrad's Industrial District. After a a cordial offer, Tacit now works for Lucky with the Rogues Circle, becoming an official member once the marketeer noticed his exceptionally quiet, and useful, skills. His manners belie a solid confidence in his abilities and knowledge, though he tends to keep both of them quiet, preferring to show an imposing brute figure and use his cunning when none are around.
 
 
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Threx, Master Thief: 270HP, 3DR. Age: 34. Month of birth: May.
 
*****
(Aggressive, Discrepancy: Laziness, Efficient, Hatred: Cowards, Hunter, Steadfast, Veterancy: Combat/Thievery)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a lithe, tough, and wiry yellow gryphon, his feline half resembling a cougar, the avian half oddly resembling a heron. Slightly smaller than most gryphons for his age, however.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: unknown. A long time buyer and veteran of the Circle, Threx is the only gryphon to have been accepted as a Rogue, due in part to his interest in pre-Lunar-Solar War artifacts and willingness to take on difficult jobs. An apt duelist with a very lazy side, discovered from living well in Las Pegasus for a little over ten years, Threx is much less tempermental than most gryphons, preferring to save his energy for when it's needed rather than wanted.
 
Constantly using his position as Lucky's de facto Lieutenant to send Rogues into situations where their skills would be tested, on the outside he's seemingly unconcerned about the day to day business of the Circle, but often keeps his eyes on those he thinks may be struggling, offering advice, tutelage, and his eyrie as a resting place for those in difficult standings.
 
Generally found in the Hall before and after auctions, he spends roughly a sixth of the night in either the Undercity or the private arena above Lucky's bar, keeping himself well trained and ready for possible trouble, especially from non-sanctioned thieves. When he feels particularly sour or in a very rare self-hating mood, he'll use himself as a decoy to shield others from Lace Wing's advances, claiming that the often drunken pegasi mare is 'nothing more than trouble on bird wings'.
 
*****
STATUS: the only gryphon Rogue, formerly one of the Circle's foremost combat teachers. Now one of the Rogue Elite teachers due to Lucky's separation.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Intimidate+4, Expert Speech+3, Expert Perception+5, Expert Appraisal+6, Expert Thievery+7, Expert Movement+7, Master Melee+10
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY:
-Raptor's Eye: a standard trait of intelligent predators, typically gryphons, this ability adds +1 to and grants an additional roll to one of: Ambush, Melee, Perception, or Stealth. The bonus is only added to whichever skill is in use that turn.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Enhanced Hatred. Threx is well known for his immense, tempermental hatred of any being attempting to flee from combat, mostly because of his utter laziness when in Las Pegasus, and willfully pushes his physical body into overdrive with uncontrolled spikes of adrenaline, becoming increasingly faster, stronger, and more hostile when an opponent tries to escape, though at a great cost to his own health.. and possibly his life span. After an enemy has attempted to avoid Threx or Rogue Circle members three times or more consecutively he may roll [1d6], and must then add +1 to each combat related skill or Intimidate up to a maximum of X, where X is the total result rolled, though this incurs a delayed physical & physiological feedback, suffering six times the result in damage to his HP the following turn.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 2/3 Slots.
 
-Vindicator's Seal: adds +1 to all Melee and Movement rolls, but suffers a -1 penalty to all Speech rolls.
 
 
 
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Valden, Honor Guard General: 200HP, 4DR. Age: 38. Month of birth: August.
 
*****
(Cautious, Conversationalist, Efficient, Honorable, Natural Leader, Soft-Spoken, Thoughtful, Veteran: Casting)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a slightly smaller than average unicorn stallion, with an oddly soft bright orange coat and light red eyes. Carries no visible scars, but some among the Lunar Guard are suspicious as to why.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: an efficient, soft spoken General of the Honor Guard, with moderate abilities and skills, Valden was considered notoriously weak when he was General of Lunar Guard, as he neglected the majority of his personal studies. Originally a Captain in the Day Guard, Valden chose to run for General of the Night & Lunar Guard in the years following Twisted Wing's disappearance to fill the vacuum, though he lamented that no other ponies attempted to take the position regardless of his inferior experience and skills.
 
Was openly disliked by the Lunar faction Veterans since he was considered a political appointee, regardless of the fact that his election to the title and station of General was considered temporary rather than permanent, and vote rigging is unheard of in Equestria. Valden only succeeded in bridging the gap between Captain Keldon's rigorous military discipline and Nightblade Hodch's ruthless information retrieval, others considering him far too soft to run the Night Guard's highly decentralized command structure.
 
Once, Valden had a tendency to place personnel with opposing traits and complementary skills in teams that would normally be sufficed by one of the Night or Lunar Guard, leading to unusually high amounts of dissent. Often refusing to become involved in a single Guard member's personal matters generally caused a great deal of tension between the younger Valden and the much older, critical Veterans, whom saw his performance and attitudes as lackluster and arrogantly book smart. While competent from his days in the Day Guard, Valden lacks combat experience and typically prefers an orderly, staggered, injury-avoiding approach to conflict, much to the chagrin of those same veterans.
 
Due to his (supposedly) woefully weak performance and the near-total abandonment of aid by the Starborn, he desperately searched for recruits across Equestria, eventually winding up in Las Pegasus. Finding few to join the Day Guard, Valden came across Claren in her bar speaking with Celestia, and approached her with the offer of replacing him as Lunar Guard General, noting that Stalliongrad's increased hostilities would likely boil over, making all out war impossible to prevent. After accepting, he reluctantly gave Claren the location to a surviving set of Ruiner's armor, then removed himself and accepted his rightful position as General of the Honor Guard.
 
His worries and fears allayed, Valden has found true success as the Day General, now having enough time to pursue his own interests. Though his time with the Night Guard has both taught much and strengthened his resolve, he doesn't know what to think of the near total differences between those that prefer daytime, versus those awake in nighttime.
 
During the renovation of Razorback Fortress, General Valden has shown a remarkable increase in personal performance due to his diligence, quickly approaching Nightblade Fankil's standards of worthiness. Broaching the topic to Princess Luna on a formal visit, Valden's open desire to become more knowledgeable and capable was coldly reprimanded, the Nightmare commenting that he should spend less time filing papers and more time alongside "his" Honor Guard. Realizing that he was not being insulted, merely dignified with an honest opinion, Valden has chosen to delegate the entirety of his duties in Canterlot to various underlings, taking his position as General of the Honor Guard on their constant rotations.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: unknown.
 
*****
STATUS: new General of the Honor Guard, formerly housed in the Canterlot Military District.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Resist Damage+4, Expert Speech+4, Expert Research+4, Expert Melee+7, Expert Reflect Magic+7, Expert Teleport+9, Master Movement+4, Grandmaster Casting+15
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Mastered Extended Barrier. Drawing on his deep knowledge of emplaced defenses, fortifications, and advanced shield casting principles, Valden is able to protect one or two allies with 3x [1d6+22] rolls up to a maximum of three turns, or until the shield(s) are destroyed, once per Operation.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 0/3 Slots.
 
-Solar General: the last relic of the Solar Guardians, this is a stained glass panorama of Princess Celestia surrounded by many notable ponies, including Captain Sharonel. Rededicated to the Honor Guard, formed roughly 50 years after the destruction of the Solar Guardians, the reverse was etched with Princess Luna, Skullbreaker, and Skullcracker, Commander Shrel, and several others in recognition of the Lunar-Solar Conflict ending. When Valden was awarded this plate, he chose to bind it's essence to himself, then place it on display at the Starborn Memorial Village, partially to prove that he holds no grudge against the Lunar Faction, and to show that while both leaders had their faults neither deserves the animosity that frequently occurs to them in the modern era. Grants +50 MaxHP, adds +1 to ALL rolls, and grants the Solaris Fury ability.
 
 
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Warden, Changeling General: 350 HP, 5DR. Age: 20,000+.
 
*****
(Armored, Changeling, Eidetic Memory, Knowledgeable, Natural Leader: Changelings, Nocturnal, Purposeful, Respectful, Veterancy: Combat/Psychokinesis)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: a larger than average Changeling, the armored body covered in ragged scars and burn marks. Although his head and horn seem to have been missed or thoroughly regenerated, the vast majority of his wounds are carried as trophies and battle scars.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a highly efficient and respectful Changeling Warden, second-in-command to Queen Chrysalis, and formerly the last known of his particular subtype. His command and direction of the Hive is nearly complete as he only reports to Queen Chrysalis. His utter loyalty is necessary to inspiring the Hive as he aids in it's rebuilding from two defensive battles against the Tyrant and several Royal Guard units, one a year before Razorback arrived, the previous one twenty-one years before.
 
The lone remaining Warden, he seems incapable of speech, instead able to pantomime smiling, frowning, and other small expressions, typically expressing himself through body language, subtle mimicked gestures, and writing in Common Equestrian. The Warden seems to understand history and new concepts quite well, picking up cues from both the Operators and Crystal ponies, answering those he can. It does not seem as if he is capable of the same creation of text and instantly readable Changeling runes that Roust performs normally, instead carrying about quills and paper when non-Changelings are in attendance.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: unknown.
 
*****
STATUS: General of the Hive, Queen Chrysalis' second in command. Now the Hive's representative at the Spire in the Crystal Empire.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Expert Writing+3, Basic Recovery+3, Basic Resist Damage+6, Expert Intimidation+4, Expert Fearless+5, Expert Stealth+5, Expert Leadership+5, Expert Shapeshift+5, Expert Movement+6, Master Melee+10, Master Psion+11
 
*****
RELATIONSHIP: friendly with the Operators.
 
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Zigri, Mystic Hunter: 110HP, 1DR. Age: 26. Month of birth: April.
 
*****
(Addiction: Stimulants, Blunt, Careless, Cold-Blooded, Direct, Distrust: Enchained, Efficient, ELITE: Mystic Combat, Fierce, Lucky, Passive-Aggressive, Resourceful, Ruthless, Severely Scarred, Warrior)
 
*****
APPEARANCE: an unassuming, lithe, and partially wiry shiny black pegasus stallion, once having never suffered a single scar or injury.. unfortunately for him, his coat is considered extremely 'pretty' for a stallion, having nearly the same sheen and luster that most mares would have after spending hours at a spa. Has a learned southern Zebraic tone, roughly equivalent to an inner city ghetto accent, but he does have a much more pronounced and intelligent vocabulary, when he cares to use it.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: born to the same mare as Shanis, though from a different stallion in their same mercenary herd. Along with other downtrodden pegasi from Stalliongrad, Zigri and his father left for new futures in Saddle Arabia once he could fly on his own. Finding little of opportunity in Buzzard's Rest, Imeron, and most other Saddle Arabian cities, the small herd of pegasi became wandering nomads, enjoying their newfound freedom and the constant movement greatly. While traveling through the Zebra lands, Zigri's curiousity was piqued at the various tribes they encountered, setting off to visit them all at the age of 11, along with one of the herd's older mares as a guardian, whom was overjoyed at giving the young and eager pegasi a chance to explore their new homeland with abandon.
 
Eventually settling down with one tribe in particular after a year of exploration and searching, Zigri's aunt returned to Saddle Arabia, leaving him in warm, welcoming hooves, but also promising to return if he needed her. In the nine years he spent with the mystics of the Gajunu, one of his rites of passage into mysticism was halted, the tribe's Seer proclaiming that Zigri would eventually come to rest his hoof on a crown of bloodied feathers, and that his eyes would become naught by the brightest of false truths. Unable to speak any more of her vision, the Seer abruptly ended the ritual and left, never to be seen or heard from again, the young stallion becoming confused and afraid of his supposed future.
 
Despite this fear, he strove to become one with his second family and Tallus, mastering the basics of mysticism to complement his speed and skills. Constantly in combat against the many non-Tallus natives spread across Saddle Arabia and the Zebra lands, Zigri learned much more of himself, Tallus, and the Planes than he knew existed, becoming one of their Warriors, and eventually a Mystic-Hunter. Although barely able to understand and utilize the basics of mysticism, Zigri is one of the few non-Saddle Arabians or Zebras capable of calling forth friendly spirits for advice, or sometimes divining small events in the future, making him well appreciated by those in close company.
 
Happily leaving the Gajunu after passing most of their trials, Zigri returned to Stalliongrad at the age of 20, without scar or injury, no small feat there, and was joyful to be reunited with Shanis, joining her newly formed mercenary company, the Tartarus Air Corps. Realizing his position and useful teachings, he quickly recreated his lineage's offshoot of the Arcane Blades, teaching and specializing small pegasi teams in anti-unicorn, anti-psion, and non-native combat, particularly focusing on Otherworldly and Planar.
 
Throughout their relationship, Shanis has always seen eye to eye with her publicly outspoken but quietly respectful brother, allowing him to inform her on Tallus politics and events that could be used in their favor, but during the Councilierge's resurgence, subsequent takeover of the Watch Guard, and purging of nearly all non-earth pony citizens from Stalliongard over a year ago, Zigri's legend of untouchability continued, spreading greatly after slaying five of the Watch Guard's most potent psions in close combat, leaving without so much as a nicked hair.
 
Downtrodden at his birth city's betrayal, he remained mutely furious at the Councilierge's actions while attempting to keep the refugee camp from falling apart with fresh food, heatstones, blankets, medical and alchemical supplies, and the other hundreds of items that somepony from a modern city would need. Although Zigri initially disregarded Spiral's offer of aid, knowing Shanis's disgust against humans, he was forced to persuade her during Razorback's second winter, realizing that they desperately needed allies if they were to save those still injured or ill. To himself, however, he wanted to prevent from having to dig yet one more grave through the frozen ground with his own hooves.
 
Meeting the arrival of several humans, Zigri's initial shock upon seeing Twisted Wing again was hidden beneath a mask of lazy disregard, the two choosing to keep their friendship silent out of mutual respect, albeit Twisted's unnecessary preparations in case events went sour were looked upon humorously. At the time however, Zigri had chosen to paint himself with small, false scars, partly to give an intimidating aspect to others, but mostly to allow him to blend in with other mercenary pegasi. Several of the worst injured were freely treated by Lont, garnering a great deal of respect, while a suitable arrangement was made afterwards: in return for Spiral repairing the damaged translocation stone, Twisted Wing would convince the batponies of the Moors to provide a constant stream of food, as well as certain goods they could obtain from Las Pegasus. In return, Zigri and Shanis would provide information on Councilierge activities, but only as long as supplies continued. Immediately after this, several renegade Watch Guard, realizing their situation had changed with the Burning Pegasus extending her wing, ended their oaths to the citizens of Stalliongrad by considering them fulfilled, and requested official membership in Tartarus, to which Zigri had no need to convince his sister of accepting.
 
Finally freed from his year long misery, Zigri shortly met and persuaded Lucky to back his idea of using the Arcane Blades and Tartarus Air Corps. as collateral, working through the black marketeer in order to move the majority of refugees either to Las Pegasus, or other allied cities and towns, though that plan fell short by several degrees. After being notified, by an anonymous letter, of a deserted and unclaimed island off the coast of Saddle Arabia, Zigri convinced Shanis to 'hire' Razorback to search it over thoroughly, using Sweet as their intermediary. Finding it more than suitable to live on, the brother and sister immediately relocated all injured and permanently crippled to the island, Shanis renaming it Tartarus Isle in honor of Zigri's efforts, and began searching for and hiring allies, particularly unicorns, to begin creating a retirement village.
 
Following another letter similarly written to the first, it took little more than a mention of the 'perfect armorer' to gain Shanis's approval, sending Sweet and several Operators to a southern Saddle Arabian jungle in search of an ancient, abandoned Lunar Guardian barracks and Armory. After Sweet's return, Zigri kept track of the mercenary companies, including those that had joined them from Las Pegasus and the Moors, ensuring each and every single mercenary visited the Arcane Atelier for proper weapon and armor enhancements, or would be forced to spend a night in Sweet's tent, under guard, unarmored, without a single weapon to defend themselves... but most importantly: ALONE.
 
Pleased that the former outcasts were now able to live freely on their own terms, Zigri became instrumental in bringing unicorns and Crystal ponies to Tartarus Isle to treat those still afflicted, often for free, as well as convincing two former Circle of Wards members to take permanent residence on the island by showing off the constantly warm beaches, delicious fruits, and the hundreds of lovely, fit pegasi mares available. On a surprise visit by the Nightmare, he even managed to coax her into lending several of the Starborn's dedicated healers for a month by pleading the cases of those that were crippled. Afterwards, Zigri and Shanis were promptly given several archaic healing relics, with proper instructions of use, and were both left a Moonstone Orb in case either should ever need her again.
 
When the Solar Tyrant resurged at Razorback Fortress, Zigri was the second pony in line to rush after Sweet, having had just barely enough time to summon his wingblades from his Eldritch friend. While nopony besides Sweet dares to talk about what occurred, Zigri's death and subsequent revival by a Sunstone has shaken his confidence, souring his outlook on life by a great amount.
 
As confusion at the perceived dishonor of death turned to anger, then depression, Zigri has has become concerned as to why the Tsiotrope has not responded to him since that time. Oddly, the Juggernaut has been the one to revive his sense of family, (partially) forcing him into staying around Shanis and his friends, even if she has no idea what she's doing or why.
 
*****
CUTIE MARK: does not seem to have one. Rarely, faint, dim imprints of multiple circles winding around and through each other can be seen.
 
*****
STATUS: Commander of the Arcane Blades on Tartarus Isle, grimly overseeing the island's expansion into a fortified city. Also makes frequent visit to the Fortress to check on his mercenary kin, or to submit jobs and requests.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Basic Cover+5, Expert Alchemy+6, Expert Scouting+6, Master Crafting+5, Master Speech+5, Master Carving+6, Master Sleight of Hoof+6, Master Melee+7, Master Movement+7
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-BOSS-class Fearless: Zigri cannot be Intimidated or Demoralized normally.
 
-Expert Mystic: twice per Operation, Zigri may call upon his Gajunu training, attempting to see the properties, or understand the skills, intents, and meanings of a non-Tallus native being with 3x [1d6+2] rolls. When not in combat, he may also try to divine the future through the Woven Threads, or attempt to call forth friendly and allied spirits for aid, though he must be content and at peace in order to do so.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Expert Formless Disdain. Zigri's early years spent in the Zebra lands combating the often overwhelming numbers of non-native forces have given him some insight into how to wound them more effectively. Becoming completely inured and intolerant to their existences due to the Gajunu's Mind-Bead Chain, as a result he cannot even be bothered to do more than dislike their existence. When in combat against Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, or Undead BEINGS, Zigri gains +1 to all offensive elemental, Melee, and Movement rolls, while any nearby allies must add +2 to all Fearless/Iron Will rolls against those same enemies.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Shanis: her older brother and confidant, though their relationship has become strained as of late.
-Sweet: still slightly distrusts the Juggernaut, regardless of the benefits of having her around.
-Twisted Wing: a close friend from her time spent traveling the Zebra lands in search of herself, Zigri managed to ignore his disregard for the Burning Pegasus after some time. Even though they do not speak to each other often, they consider each other close family.
 
*****
PERSONAL ARTIFACT:
-Gajunu Mind-Bead Chain. Formerly a 5' long string containing numerous bone, teeth, shell, hide, and core pieces taken from destroyed or killed hostile Eldritch, Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings during his time in the Zebra lands. Before leaving on his 20th year, as was custom for their tribe, the elders of the Gajunu tallied the number of destroyed beings attributed to Zigri, and upon finding that he had surpassed the required number spoken by their eldest Seer when he was sent to train with them, fashioned this collection of trophies and tokens as an adornment. Zigri chose to allow the chain to be permanently affixed to his body underneath his coat, wound three times around his neck in a gruesome, excruciating rite of passage completed by the entirety of his adopted tribe, making him the third being to receive such an honor. The nature of the 'Many Worlds, One Mind, Two Voices' vision Zigri received during the ritual has rendered him Fearless against any and all hostile, non-Tallus native beings; though he should hold virtually no animosity towards such, the resurgence of the Tyrant has returned his immense hatred towards the unnatural.
 
*****
ELDRITCH ARMOR:
-Arcane Mystic-Hunter Armor (Armor Traits: 0/4 Enchantment Slots, Unique Legendary Eldritch Artifact): provides 3DR, reduces harm caused by esoteric means, Eldritch, Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings by 1/4, adds +1 to all Melee, Movement, Sleight of Hoof, and Stealth rolls. A multi-hued black and grey partial body covering armor made from the skin, shell, and plating of three friendly Eldritch beings, donated to him during his years in the Zebra lands, with numerous charms and tattoo marks present across it's surface, all created by the Gajunu Tribe. Further reinforced by softened kanpri plates under the plating, the interior is composed of six layers of various spectral and Planar spider silk Moor weaves, providing additional protection against the non-native targets and enemies that the Arcane Blades routinely encounter and purge. Protects from above his hooves to below his neck without hindering mobility, though is only worn on missions.
 
*****
ELDRITCH WEAPONRY:
-Dravet Tsiotrope Spineblades (Weapon Traits: 0/4 Enchantment Slots, Archaic Cursed Legendary Eldritch Artifact): approximately fifty bright white blades created from the spines of the Dravet Tsiotrope, a legendary Eldritch being known for escaping Tartarus and then protecting the Zebra lands since ancient times. Given as a gift during Zigri's 15th year, they were hoof-carved into a preferred shape over the next year, using methods similar to the Gozkan minotaurs. Shortly after his 16th year, Zigri made the pilgrimage to the Tsiotrope's home along with his teacher, a young Seer of the tribe, speaking to the being for some time. Realizing his potential in the world, Zigri allowed the Dravet to bond the blades to his Ka, granting him the right to summon them from the Eldritch being's own body for use at any time. Afterwards, the Tsiotrope made the request that, should Zigri die, he must take his spines into the Oceanlands, rather than be returned to regrow and be reshaped by another Mystic-Hunter once more. Adds +4 to all Melee rolls, grants the Cover+1 skill, a [1d6+4] <Mystic Forceblade elemental attack that bypasses DR, and allows a [1d6+4] <Mystic Tsiotrope non-elemental ability that, ONCE per Operation, causes Otherworldly, Planar, Spectral, and Undead beings to suffer a -x penalty to all rolls for 3 turns, where X is the result-2. Also features both powerful slowfall-float and sticky enchantments. Cannot be diswinged, and may not be used by any other being.
 
*****
PERSONAL ENCHANTMENTS: 2/3 Enchantment Slots.
 
*****
-Sticky: a powerful full body enchantment that allows it's owner to stick to nearly any surface, including cloud material, without fear of being removed. May also attach items to oneself for a near-permanent hold.
 
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                                                      LEADERS
 
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Cadence, Princess of Rebirth: 1,600HP, 15DR. Age: 25,000+.
 
*****
Abilities: Arcane Perception+10, Imperial Intimidate+14, Speech+20, Basic Resist Damage+16, Expert Movement+12, Expert Regen+20 (Autoheal), Master Mysticism+8, Grandmaster Casting+18, Grandmaster Recovery+20, 5x Grandmaster Alchemy+20, 6x Grandmaster Melee+15, 6x Grandmaster Crystal Runes+30
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY: Imperial Immolation Enrage (Leader): -50HP per use, adds +10 to MAIN Leader ability, adds +5 to all other offensive abilities.
 
*****
LEADER ABILITY: DIAMOND REPRISAL. Summoning shards kept from the construction of the Crystal Empire City-State's Spire, Cadence may selectively target from one to eight enemies, unleashing a hail of diamond spikes, spears, and blades upon them from above. Allows 8X [1d6+24] rolls that ignore DR and cause Bleeding status on living enemies ONLY.
 
*****
UNIQUE ITEM:
-Imperial Outrider Badge: this is a small, solid gold medal badge of a Snarling Lance (a form of polearm with a chainsaw's long bar & serrated tooth chain in place of a blade) dividing its surface, one side covered in a stylized Outrider engine, the other bearing the flag of Lont's former regiment, earned after his graduation. Formerly pinned on Lont's Outrider beret, it has been with him the better part of over 22 years, though he has given it to Cadence as a mark of esteem and friendship. Now carried on the right side of her mane, and while once kept hidden during important functions, she now wears it openly, as if daring others to condemn her for bearing it.
 
*****
UNIQUE EQUIPMENT:
-Lont.
 
*****
Relationships:
-Lont: great friend.. with benefits.
-Highly friendly with the Operators
 
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Chrysalis, Queen of the Hive: 2,200HP, 23DR. Age: 25,000+.
 
*****
Abilities: Arcane Perception+15, Speech+15, Basic Movement+8, Basic Regen+10 (Autoheal), Expert Resist Damage+30, Master Creativity+18, Master Alchemy+20, Grandmaster Casting+20, Grandmaster Shapeshift+24, 6x Grandmaster Melee+30, 6x Grandmaster Psionicism+30
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY: Hive's Immolation Enrage (Leader): -50HP per use, adds +10 to MAIN Leader ability, adds +5 to all other offensive abilities.
 
*****
LEADER ABILITY: QUEEN'S DEVOTION. Drawing on the collective power of the Hive, Chrysalis is capable of unleashing a concentrated wave of psionic harm, piercing through all mortal defenses with ease. Allows an 8x [1d6+25] Psychokinesis attack to all enemies in line of sight, ignoring DR and stunning enemies. As a side effect, Queen's Devotion counts as Leadership to all allies within range, increasing ALL abilities by +2 until the Operation ends or Queen Chrysalis leaves, whichever occurs first.
 
*****
Relationships:
-Highly friendly with the Operators.
-Hollow: quite friendly towards.
 
 
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Luna (Princess), the Nightmare: 1,800HP, 20DR.  Age: 25,000+.
 
*****
Abilities: Speech+10, Arcane Perception+20, Lunar Intimidation+20, Basic Regen+20 (Autoheal), Basic Resist Damage+20, Master Creativity+10, Master Mysticism+11, Master Movement+11, Grandmaster Alchemy+22, Grandmaster Necromancy+22, Grandmaster Conjuration+26, 6x Grandmaster Casting+25, 6x Grandmaster Melee+30
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITY: Immolation Enrage (Leader): -50HP per use, adds +10 to MAIN Leader ability, adds +5 to all other offensive abilities.
 
*****
LEADER ABILITY: NIGHT REAPER. Drawing on the essence of the Night, Luna is capable of attacking from one to eight enemies with a series of powerful strikes by diving into the Underdark and striking with impunity from it's shelter, the assault itself lasting from one to two seconds. Allows 8x [1d6+30] Melee attacks that ignore DR and cause Bleeding status on living opponents ONLY.
 
*****
RELATIONSHIPS:
-Clemency and Jeff: very friendly towards, and sees them as part of her (greatly) extended family, regardless of species.
-All other Operators: mostly friendly towards.
 
*****
ELDRITCH ARMOR:
-Nightmare Incursion Armor (Armor Traits: 0/5 Enchantment Slots, Ancient Legendary Eldritch Artifact, Crystal-Forged, Custom-Fit, Graven-Carved, Heavy, Lunar-Forged): provides +10DR, adds +2 to all Speech and +4 to all Melee rolls, but suffers a -5 penalty to all Movement rolls.
 
*****
>UNIQUE ELDRITCH SUMMON:
-RED NAGHTMARE CORE, #2/4: Flowing Spark, 240HP, 4DR.
 
*****
APPEARANCE: this particular Naghtmare is a voiceless, long deceased Crystal pony mare, her coat a bright red, while her mane and tail are living flame. Her features are well rounded with a highly feminine cast, giving her an even more sultry appearance than most Crystal pony mares have. Though she cannot speak, her mannerisms and facial expression are typically cruel and hostile, causing innate FEAR to most ponies. Her Cutie Marks are a trio of cartoonish purple flames in a triangle, rounded at the bottom with five squiggles of flame trailing upwards. Naghtmares are half-living, half-dead ponies, given a transient and partially elemental existence via Princess Luna's early experiments with conjuration, mysticism, and necromancy.
 
*****
BIOGRAPHY: a relentless, fearless, sadistic, and highly opportunistic combat support Naghtmare, Flowing Spark is constantly calculating the simplest methods to incinerate any enemy in her line of sight, typically terrifying them into leaving to hunt down later, or simply forcing her opponents into amusing her until she becomes tired of their existence. Infused with numerous flame capabilities, mainly meant for incinerating foes and making armor & weaponry impossible to use, Flowing Spark is one of the few Naghtmares capable of taking on entire squads with little fear of reprisal, mostly due to the innate fear most beings have for fire, and specialized training in the proper means of intimidating otherwise hardened opponents. Has an inherent slowfall-float function due to said infusions, appearing as a swirling cloud of eternal flame connected to her hooves, though is much more powerful than most Naghtmares have. Luna has stated that Flowing Spark is one of a few Naghtmares that should not be woken lightly, as she makes very little distinction between friend and foe unless otherwise ordered by one with a sufficiently commanding voice and great willpower. Roll [1d6] to summon her, the result is the number of turns she may last in reality each Operation, though a roll of 9 or higher on Intimidation, Iron Will, or Speech is required EACH TURN to prevent Flowing Spark from turning on 'potential' allies.
 
*****
ABILITIES: Resist Damage+4, Expert Movement+4, Expert Crystal Runes+8, Expert Melee+8 + [1d6+4] <Scorch
 
*****
SPECIAL ABILITIES:
-Firecall: a skill unique to Flowing Spark, she is able to drain portions of the eternal flame from her unnatural core, shaping such expulsions to her thoughts and will, whether they be projectiles, literal walls of flame, or caricatures of living beings with 3x [1d6+10] rolls.
 
-Fireheart: by drawing the essence of eternal flame from her core, Flowing Spark is able to temporarily increase the power, width, speed, and extent of her elemental abilities. Roll [1d6] at the start of each turn, the result adds +X to all Fire elemental abilities and Melee attacks the next turn.
 
-Fireheart's Fear: by displaying the eternal flames imbued to her core though her eyes and body, Flowing Spark can Demoralize even the bravest of living beings with a [1d6+4] roll, and has the capacity to terrify some Otherworldly and even Undead beings. Functions as Demoralize and can be affected by Fireheart.
 
-Flamesight: an unusual capability unique to the flame Naghtmares, Flamesight grants them the ability to 'see' the physical strengths and weaknesses of living and certain Otherworldly beings, allowing them to pinpoint weak areas to cause even greater harm than simply using their eternal core's abilities. Roll [1d6+4], the result is then added to all Fire elemental abilities the following turn, may only be used twice per Operation.
 
-Firestorm: the standard opening offense for flame Naghtmares, Firestorm allows Flowing Spark to encompass an area, varying from 1-50M in diameter, with a brief surge of eternal flame from her core with 2x [1d6+10] rolls. This ability may only be used four times per Operation.
 
*****
UNIQUE ABILITY: Master Molten Reign. Once per Operation, Flowing Spark is able to combine her core's immense energies with a silent, endless song of crystalline flame, opening a rift to the Plane of Fire and allowing a veritable rain of bonfire sized, napalm-like fire elemental projectiles to rain from the sky with 4x [1d6+12] rolls over a 50M area for two turns. While the projectiles cannot track a target, they can splash an opponent on even a near-miss, burning them for 8 damage each turn for two turns until the elemental essence is expended. Once the rift fades from reality, Flowing Spark's current body will disintegrate and she will return to her core.