Emerging Sun Colony

[emerging-sun-colony]

Welcome to the Emerging Sun Colony Blog!

This blog is all about the Emerging Sun Colony, a slugcat colony. Comics, art, and asks involving the Emerging Sun Colony and their world will be posted here. You can ask any member of the colony anything! (if you ask something already asked, I'll link the other ask in your answer and try to give a little more info)

I have an ongoing comic about these characters you can start it here!

Here's a height chart of the colony here!

Here's individual pictures here and here!

Colony Pronouns and some lore here!

Tags:

Characters will be tagged under posts they appear in. (Example: #seeker)

#ask - All asks have this tag. If you wanna see them, I would search this instead of scrolling.

#lore - any post canon to the story's lore

#emergingsuncolony- Any post that relates to the colony. Most will have this tag.

[emerging-sun-colony]

Seeker… you good?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Ah evolution, you see when generations of a certain species lives in an environment that is not like its ancestors, certain genes are favored over others which allows it to adapt to the environment which could create a completely different species.

My point being some creatures that inhabit this new region you will not be familiar with and be better off not fighting them, until you gather enough information about them.

[emerging-sun-colony]

so what about those fighting skills challenger?

[emerging-sun-colony]

That lizard was following you for a good cycle by then

Also I think I saw another one at some point

[emerging-sun-colony]

Hi people! I'm doing Artfight this year on team Mystery! I'll be fairly inactive here due to it, but you can expect at least another ask answer until July starts. The Emerging Sun Colony is on my Arfight, with a bunch of new refs! Come fight me >:)

Art Fight

An art gifting game

[emerging-sun-colony]

Are you on good terms with the scavengers?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Seeker and Challenger: How was the fall?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Page 14!

Previous Next First

[emerging-sun-colony]

Ok I think you should focus on your story a little more…

OOC: Don't worry, the next page will be out soon.

The roleplay stuff doesnt take long.

[emerging-sun-colony]

(empath and zip zap you are minding your own business when you notice a cyan lizard wearing some kind of coat has been silently trailing you)

(a mark of comms with the symbol of a lizard starts glowing above them)

hello!

-labzard

@ask-group-pohutukawa im a man (or lizard) of my words

Zip-zap makes a noise upon noticing the lizard following them.

Empath: What is it?

Labzard: Hello!

Empath: Oh, hello. I don't mean to be rude, but... You aren't a slugcat. Right? You almost sound like a lizard...

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: since I am a lizard, like yours. I'm guessing you aren't able to see which means you won't be able to read my tag or see what I'm wearing

The name is Labzard and I come from an iterator very north west from here. I'm exploring for things I can use on research I'm doing

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh I see, well it is lovely to meet you. You can call me Empath. This is Zip-Zap. Want are you studying exactly? My colony may be able to give you some information.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well hello then zip-zap. im after things like the flora and fauna, what is special around here and cant be found else were. things like that. what is your colony like? i come from one of my own

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap churps a greeting.

Empath: Well, admittedly, we are still new to this region as well, and we're still discovering the life around here. My colony knows more than I do though. They are quite lovely, I'm sure they would like to meet you, and explain their findings. Some of them might seem a little aggressive at first, but they won't hurt you, they're just protective. I can show you to them if you'd like. Maybe you could tell me a little about your colony too.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard let's out a small chirp in response to zip-zap)

Labzard: "oh yeah that would be lovely if you could too

I come from a big colony of scavengers, slugcats and a few other types of lizards, all lead by an iterator!"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, that sounds lovely. Follow us, we'll show you to our camp. It's not much currently, two of our members are scouting out for a more permanent spot to set up.

The three head towards camp.

Beast: Welcome ba-

Beast stops upon seeing Labzard.

Beast: Wha?

He looks between Zip-Zap and Labzard, he doesn't seem hostile, just confused.

(Don't worry about response time, I took days to come back to this. I get really distracted by life stuff. I'm pretty active today, but can't guarantee that will continue.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: what is everyone's names?

oh hello!

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast's eyes widen.

Beast: Lizards can talk?

Empath: Don't be rude. This is our guest.

Beast: Umm right. I'm Beast... it's nice to meet you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: no no empath, its a valid question

Nice to meet you. For some information you can read the tag around my neck. as for why I can talk and understand you is a two way mark or something similar, my iterator just calls it a two way mark

Some side information I could say is my iterator adopted me after I got lost as a pup and raised me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast gets closer to read the tag around Labzard's neck.

Beast: Huh. Second question. What do you mean by "iterator"? I don't think I've heard that term before.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: I could explain to you later maybe but you would show me around your colony?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast looks towards Empath and then back to Labzard.

Beast: Well... sure. Come on in.

Beast leads the way and Labzard, Empath and Zip-Zap follow.

As they enter camp, a little green pup runs over and pounces on Labzard's tail.

Marsh: Roarrr

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard flinches a bit before looking to find its a pup)

Labzard: heh. little energetic one, may you get off please?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast grabs Marsh.

Beast: Marsh! You can't just- OW!

Marsh bites him and runs off. Immediately getting picked up by Lucky and put on their back.

Lucky: Sorry! Marsh gets a little over excited sometimes.

Marsh: I protect!

Empath: This is our guest, Marsh. A friend.

Marsh makes a face.

Lucky looks over to Labzard.

Lucky: Well, hi! I'm Lucky. This little trouble maker is Marsh.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "hello! if you want some more info on me then you can read my ID tag. im just exploring around for things I can use on research I'm doing"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky reads the tag.

Lucky: Oh, ok! Well, feel free to wander around camp. Herbalist already knows quite a bit about the flora around here. You can find them over there. And Soothslayer just knows a lot. They'll be around here somewhere.

Lucky looks around. Empath goes over to Labzard.

Empath: I'm going to go around letting know the colony about your presence. We don't need more confusion.

Empath walks away.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "ah, thank you empath. i might try and find soothslayer as no offense but they sound cooler, what do they look like or where would they normally be?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky: Oh, there they are!

Lucky points towards two slugcats talking to each other on the other side of camp. One is large and dark orange, while the other is gray and shorter.

Lucky: Soothslayer is just over there. They're the gray one.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, thank you

(labzard goes over there to meet them)

Labzard: hello! You are Soothslayer right? I was told you know a lot of things around here, I'm looking for unique things I could use in my research on the rot to see its affects on them

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer turns to Labzard. Architect heads off to let them speak.

Soothslayer: You must be who Empath was talking about. It is nice to meet you. I wasn't aware that a two-way mark of communication was possible.

Soothslayer: The rot... hm. I have very little experience of it myself. I've only heard of it. What have you already tested it on?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: most common plants, vegetation and some small critters which haven't really revealed much new things. What I'm trying to find is something that can reverse the effects of rot to try and fix and get rid of a massive rot patch north of my iterator without too much damage to the land and structures

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Hmm. I see. That is quite the issue. Have you played around with how it reacts to extreme temperature? Perhaps you could try to freeze or burn it.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "you cant freeze it to death without getting to below -80c, around -10c it goes into a mostly dormant state though. It is flammable and burns about as well as egg bug eggs but that also brings risks of a massive uncontrollable fire

Something I should say is that this isn't normal rot but instead a different type that we nicknamed the "Ariel" rot type"

(while saying this labzard looks around a bit nervously as if watching out for something)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Ariel rot? Hm. That's quite the issue.

They begin to mumble to themselves.

Soothslayer: Does your Iterator have any access to void fluid, or perhaps nearby echos or other strange karmic properties?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "it isnt ariel but we just call it that as amber found it first while flying one of their planes and they named it. i dont think there is any echos around my iterator's can but they do have access to void fluid"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: I see. Void fluid has many karmic properties. The Iteratior I once lived on studied it extensively and what it could do beyond releasing a soul from the cycle. My own abilities are a result of her experiments. Something to do with seeing bits of alternate cycles within the past or future. While I myself am at a loss for how it can be done, I wouldn't be surprised if rot could be affected by the cycle's natural cleansing nature.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "sounds interesting but im also not really willing to play around or try to research void fluid due to the risk of it breaching and ascending me, i might look into it though if i get desperate. any other ideas?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: That's understandable. I unfortunately don't have any definitive answers for you right now. Though, I could attempt to receive a vision tonight. If you are willing to stay overnight. They mostly are random, but in times of need, I can manifest one. I cannot guarantee anything though.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "i wouldn't mind staying over for a night. i am around here looking for new things after all so i most likely will stay around here. might as well introduce me to the others i guess then"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Alright then.

They think for a moment.

Soothslayer: I don't believe any of us know much about the rot, but Architect is rather crafty and could certainly provide some ideas on how to implement any potential solutions. Herbalist also knows a bit more about plants than I do, it's possible they know some kind of plant that could have potential use.

Soothslayer: Herbalist is just in that little den over there, and Architect is... ah, he's over there by the pups.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(they thank you and then stand there trying to decide for a bit. They want to go ask architect for ideas just the others might not like them around the pups. Herbalist might have some things of use but they aren't sure)

(eventually they slowly walk over to architect a Bit nervous)

Labzard: hello, architect right? I heard you were crafty and had good ideas for dealing with problems

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks over. He is holding a bunch of long plant fibers and a half made basket. Next to him is a dark purple pup and a lighter purple pup, both with a much messier half made basket. The other pups are a bit further away playing, supervised by a large fluffy slugcat and Lucky.

Architect: Hello, I suppose I am. Was Soothslayer unable to help you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: teaching them to weave bags, they seem to be doing well but needs some work. That's what practice is for! Soothslayer was able to a bit but still don't really know how to deal with the main problem other than trying to find something that would react the way I need it to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Yes, these two are quite crafty. They are getting better every day.

The dark purple pup looks up at Labzard.

Dusk: Yeah! I'm gonna be like grandpa!

Architect smiles and rubs Dusk's head.

Architect: As for your issue, I heard you mention the rot? I assume this isn't simply rotting food or life?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well isn't that good. no it isn't food rotting but its the all consuming type of rot. what im after is something that could revert the growth of rot without damaging anything else, i guess thats the best way to say it. so from rotted creatures to plants to buildings, im after a way to undo that but right now what im mostly looking at is a reactions with things that react in a way since i cant think of anything else

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: So it is more like an infection or illness? Well, have you found a way to quarantine any affected areas or creatures? Perhaps digging around an area to give the rot more surface area it has to infect before moving on? It might not be a solution, but it could buy you time.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: infection, more like a type of cancer that takes over the host. quarantining an area wouldn't work, too big. tried digging an area before but it just jumped it like a fire jumping a river then over time spread to the cleared out area. once was able to capture a live fully infected blue lizard which almost killed me but that did give some results until they ended up breaching after breaking through one of the walls which also almost killed me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks deep in thought.

Architect: That's... troubling...

Architect thinks for a moment.

Architect: Does it have any known weaknesses?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: so far just fire but that runs a bunch more risks and would like to keep that as a last resort on the other hand the cold does slow it down

There is also a type of gas that is extremely corrosive to it but it's also corrosive to metal and all organics and is very risky to work with

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: I understand your hesitation. Fire is indeed dangerous. You would need a way to harness it without the risk of it catching on yourselves or undesired areas... hm. Quite the issue. The gas also seems far too dangerous to work with. However, I have come across a kind of lizard that breathes a flurry of cold air as an attack. Perhaps it would help.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh you have? Tell me about it... Maybe I should have been writing everything down so I don't forget

(they pull out a note pad and a pencil and sits down in front of architect)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Well, it has been quite a while since I've come across it at this point. It was closer to my old colony, quite a bit north from here. As it walked around it had an aura of cold wind around it, strong enough to push away any weapons or smaller creatures from it. This aura would only dissipate after it used its attack. This attack was deadly to slugcats. It would instantly freeze the lizard's prey. I once fell victim to it. The death was instant, I barely felt anything at all. I never saw it use its attack on any other creature though...

Architect trails off and sighs.

Architect speaks softly, a hint of sadness in his voice: Wild would of have been able to tell you more. They always were knowledgeable about these kind of things.

Architect straightens out and speaks normally again: If cold slows down the rot, I'd imagine that this lizard's freezing capabilities could assist you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: does sound like it, Thank you. Where is wild? I think I might go talk to them next. Also do you know how much time till the end of cycle?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: My apologies. I shouldn't have mentioned Wild. You won't be able to talk with them...

Architect has a longing look on his face. But once again, he straightens up and looks back at Labzard with his normal expression.

Architect: It doesn't rain around here. We tend to follow the Sun cycle.

Architect looks up. The Sun is low in the sky, and the sunset is not far away.

Architect: It seems we are nearing the end of this cycle. It has been pleasant speaking with you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: ah bugger, I might have time to talk with someone else in time... Where is herbalist? Also I'm sorry about wild...

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Herbalist's den is over there. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to chat.

Architect points to a den. He looks back to Labzard with a tired expression.

Architect: Before you go, could I ask a favor?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, Yeah sure! I would be happy to. What is it?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: You are from far away, correct? If you ever see a large tan slugcat with four visible sharp teeth, looking similar to Beast... could you tell her where we are? That we're alright, and that I... would love to see them again, even if it's not permanent... I don't know for sure if Wild is alive, but I like to think she is.

Architect sighs.

Architect: Only if you happen to come across them of course. I'm not asking for you to look.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: alright! maybe i could ask my iterator to send an overseer out to find them if you want me to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: That would be appreciated. I wish you luck on your issue.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: you too. see you later maybe (labzard gives a wave then heads over to the den Archi pointed at. labzard knocks on the entrance then pokes their head in to the den) Labzard: heeeeello? its me, the lizard

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist turns around from sorting various dried herbs.

Herbalist: Hm? Oh hello!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: hello! i was wondering if you knew much about the plant life around here? im looking for something that might be able to be used as a cure for the rot and be able to essentially reverse the growth of rot

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Oh yes! I know quite a bit about all the plant life around and even a few that aren't.

She pauses.

Herbalist: Hmm, rot? Well, there are some plants that are very good at filtering harmful spores from the air. Such as star vine leaves. As for a cure, plenty of plants have natural anti-infectious properties! Fern tree leaves can be a great way to draw out infection in the body!

(The plants are technically made up but inspired by real plants with these attributes. Star Vines are based on English Ivy, and the Fern Tree is based on Naam Tree.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oooooooo alright. Always thought plants might have a way to help. Any idea where I could find a fern tree? Also do you know of anywhere nearby I could sleep at? I'm starting to get tired

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Well, fern trees grow in warmer and wet climates. I believe there's forest of them outside of the rain's domain quite a bit south from here. Close to the rain machine, but not quite within their domain.

Herbalist: As for a place to sleep, I'm sure Empath wouldn't mind you joining her and Zip-Zap at her den! I also have plenty of room here if you'd rather!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh thank you. I might go sleep with empath and zip-zap as that means cuddle pile :D

Labzard: where is their den?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist points over to a den. Zip-Zap's tail is visible from the entrance.

Herbalist: Right over there!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: thank you!

(labzard turns away with a smile on his face, more of a cheeky one as he zoops over and above the den using his claws to stick to the wall and then boops zip-zap's tail)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap: Merp!

Zip-Zap turns around to look at Labzard.

Zip-Zap chirps playfully and launches at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

labzard: ah! wait, let me take my lab coat and lanyard off

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap stops and gets low to the ground. Waiting for Labzard to be ready. His tail is whooshing back and forth. Once Labzard's coat and lanyard are off, Zip-Zap zoops right at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(he quickly takes his coat and lanyard off and chucks its to the side and turns back just to be tackled by zip-zap and starts trying to wrestle them while also trying not to scratch or accidentally bite them too badly)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap chirps happily as he wrestles back. It's hard to tell if he is trying to be gentle or just really bad at fighting. He claws and bites at nothing. He's mostly just pushing Labzard around with his body and ramming his head into him.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(one of the times zip-zap tries ramming labzard, he uses zip-zap's momentum to pick them and carry them over his head)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap makes a surprised murp as his momentum is used against him, and he is flipped over Labzard.

Zip-Zap merps in defeat, laying low.

Empath emerges from the den. Chuckling slightly.

Empath: I hope you both had fun. Good win Labzard.

Zip-Zap springs back up and nuzzles into Empath.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh we did have fun i believe, hah! sorry if i injured you Zip-Zap Labzard: the main reason im here is its getting late and Herbalist said that it might be best to ask you for a place to stay for the night. could I?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, of course you can stay the night with us! Though, I do have to warn you that Zip-Zap moves a little in his sleep. Nothing major, I personally have never had an issue, but my son often does. Though he's not here right now, it'll just be the two of us.

Zip-Zap merps at Labzard. He seems happy and uninjured.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh don't worry. I do too, also includes a little nibbling! Who is your son?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath chuckles a little.

Empath: Well alright! I'm glad it won't be a problem. As for my son, his title is Seeker, he and another member of the colony are scouting out the ruins to see if they can find a more suitable place for a permanent camp. This place is fine for now, but it isn't very protective against the elements. Seeker has a keen eye for things, shockly so, considering I am his mother, so I am sure he'll find a wonderful place.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh that's neat! Hopefully they will be fine, the cycle can be harsh sometimes. Also me nibbling in my sleep was a joke... I think, I think sometimes I might nibble stuff in my sleep. Anyways, thank you

(Labzard grabs his lab coat and lanyard and puts them both on)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Yes, I'll admit I'm a little worried about him, but he has Challenger with him, and I trust that she'll keep him safe, and that he'll keep her safe in turn. She can be rather reckless... Anyway! It is getting quite late, shall we head to bed?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: yeah sure...

(he moves past Empath into the den and finds a corner to stand in)

Labzard: How long do you reckon they might be gone for?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath heads over to the pile of bedding in the den, Zip-Zap following along. There isn't much room for Labzard to stand in. He'll have to move closer to Empath and Zip-Zap to comfortably lay down.

Empath: Hard to say. It really hasn't been too long since they've left, the ruins are quite large, I would imagine that it will take them at least another several cycles to get a good idea of the best place to move into... I hope they are doing alright.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: this world is brutal but i think they would be fine

(he moves in a little closer to the two before taking his lab coat, lanyard and gloves off and putting them all in a corner. he moves closer to the others now on all fours)

Labzard: you fine with me just... curling around you?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Do whatever is most comfortable for you. I am no stranger to sleeping along side lizards after all! And Zip-Zap doesn't seem to have any issue with you.

Empath lets out a content sigh.

Empath: Goodnight Labzard.

Empath cuddles closer to Zip-Zap, and Zip-Zap lays happily next to her, looking at Labzard welcoming him closer.

[emerging-sun-colony]

Aw he's dead

I guess bring him with you and get back to the group?

Spoilers for page 13

[emerging-sun-colony]

OH SHIT HE HEAD

Spoilers for Page 13

[emerging-sun-colony]

(empath and zip zap you are minding your own business when you notice a cyan lizard wearing some kind of coat has been silently trailing you)

(a mark of comms with the symbol of a lizard starts glowing above them)

hello!

-labzard

@ask-group-pohutukawa im a man (or lizard) of my words

Zip-zap makes a noise upon noticing the lizard following them.

Empath: What is it?

Labzard: Hello!

Empath: Oh, hello. I don't mean to be rude, but... You aren't a slugcat. Right? You almost sound like a lizard...

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: since I am a lizard, like yours. I'm guessing you aren't able to see which means you won't be able to read my tag or see what I'm wearing

The name is Labzard and I come from an iterator very north west from here. I'm exploring for things I can use on research I'm doing

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh I see, well it is lovely to meet you. You can call me Empath. This is Zip-Zap. Want are you studying exactly? My colony may be able to give you some information.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well hello then zip-zap. im after things like the flora and fauna, what is special around here and cant be found else were. things like that. what is your colony like? i come from one of my own

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap churps a greeting.

Empath: Well, admittedly, we are still new to this region as well, and we're still discovering the life around here. My colony knows more than I do though. They are quite lovely, I'm sure they would like to meet you, and explain their findings. Some of them might seem a little aggressive at first, but they won't hurt you, they're just protective. I can show you to them if you'd like. Maybe you could tell me a little about your colony too.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard let's out a small chirp in response to zip-zap)

Labzard: "oh yeah that would be lovely if you could too

I come from a big colony of scavengers, slugcats and a few other types of lizards, all lead by an iterator!"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, that sounds lovely. Follow us, we'll show you to our camp. It's not much currently, two of our members are scouting out for a more permanent spot to set up.

The three head towards camp.

Beast: Welcome ba-

Beast stops upon seeing Labzard.

Beast: Wha?

He looks between Zip-Zap and Labzard, he doesn't seem hostile, just confused.

(Don't worry about response time, I took days to come back to this. I get really distracted by life stuff. I'm pretty active today, but can't guarantee that will continue.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: what is everyone's names?

oh hello!

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast's eyes widen.

Beast: Lizards can talk?

Empath: Don't be rude. This is our guest.

Beast: Umm right. I'm Beast... it's nice to meet you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: no no empath, its a valid question

Nice to meet you. For some information you can read the tag around my neck. as for why I can talk and understand you is a two way mark or something similar, my iterator just calls it a two way mark

Some side information I could say is my iterator adopted me after I got lost as a pup and raised me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast gets closer to read the tag around Labzard's neck.

Beast: Huh. Second question. What do you mean by "iterator"? I don't think I've heard that term before.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: I could explain to you later maybe but you would show me around your colony?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast looks towards Empath and then back to Labzard.

Beast: Well... sure. Come on in.

Beast leads the way and Labzard, Empath and Zip-Zap follow.

As they enter camp, a little green pup runs over and pounces on Labzard's tail.

Marsh: Roarrr

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard flinches a bit before looking to find its a pup)

Labzard: heh. little energetic one, may you get off please?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast grabs Marsh.

Beast: Marsh! You can't just- OW!

Marsh bites him and runs off. Immediately getting picked up by Lucky and put on their back.

Lucky: Sorry! Marsh gets a little over excited sometimes.

Marsh: I protect!

Empath: This is our guest, Marsh. A friend.

Marsh makes a face.

Lucky looks over to Labzard.

Lucky: Well, hi! I'm Lucky. This little trouble maker is Marsh.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "hello! if you want some more info on me then you can read my ID tag. im just exploring around for things I can use on research I'm doing"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky reads the tag.

Lucky: Oh, ok! Well, feel free to wander around camp. Herbalist already knows quite a bit about the flora around here. You can find them over there. And Soothslayer just knows a lot. They'll be around here somewhere.

Lucky looks around. Empath goes over to Labzard.

Empath: I'm going to go around letting know the colony about your presence. We don't need more confusion.

Empath walks away.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "ah, thank you empath. i might try and find soothslayer as no offense but they sound cooler, what do they look like or where would they normally be?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky: Oh, there they are!

Lucky points towards two slugcats talking to each other on the other side of camp. One is large and dark orange, while the other is gray and shorter.

Lucky: Soothslayer is just over there. They're the gray one.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, thank you

(labzard goes over there to meet them)

Labzard: hello! You are Soothslayer right? I was told you know a lot of things around here, I'm looking for unique things I could use in my research on the rot to see its affects on them

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer turns to Labzard. Architect heads off to let them speak.

Soothslayer: You must be who Empath was talking about. It is nice to meet you. I wasn't aware that a two-way mark of communication was possible.

Soothslayer: The rot... hm. I have very little experience of it myself. I've only heard of it. What have you already tested it on?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: most common plants, vegetation and some small critters which haven't really revealed much new things. What I'm trying to find is something that can reverse the effects of rot to try and fix and get rid of a massive rot patch north of my iterator without too much damage to the land and structures

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Hmm. I see. That is quite the issue. Have you played around with how it reacts to extreme temperature? Perhaps you could try to freeze or burn it.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "you cant freeze it to death without getting to below -80c, around -10c it goes into a mostly dormant state though. It is flammable and burns about as well as egg bug eggs but that also brings risks of a massive uncontrollable fire

Something I should say is that this isn't normal rot but instead a different type that we nicknamed the "Ariel" rot type"

(while saying this labzard looks around a bit nervously as if watching out for something)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Ariel rot? Hm. That's quite the issue.

They begin to mumble to themselves.

Soothslayer: Does your Iterator have any access to void fluid, or perhaps nearby echos or other strange karmic properties?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "it isnt ariel but we just call it that as amber found it first while flying one of their planes and they named it. i dont think there is any echos around my iterator's can but they do have access to void fluid"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: I see. Void fluid has many karmic properties. The Iteratior I once lived on studied it extensively and what it could do beyond releasing a soul from the cycle. My own abilities are a result of her experiments. Something to do with seeing bits of alternate cycles within the past or future. While I myself am at a loss for how it can be done, I wouldn't be surprised if rot could be affected by the cycle's natural cleansing nature.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "sounds interesting but im also not really willing to play around or try to research void fluid due to the risk of it breaching and ascending me, i might look into it though if i get desperate. any other ideas?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: That's understandable. I unfortunately don't have any definitive answers for you right now. Though, I could attempt to receive a vision tonight. If you are willing to stay overnight. They mostly are random, but in times of need, I can manifest one. I cannot guarantee anything though.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "i wouldn't mind staying over for a night. i am around here looking for new things after all so i most likely will stay around here. might as well introduce me to the others i guess then"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Alright then.

They think for a moment.

Soothslayer: I don't believe any of us know much about the rot, but Architect is rather crafty and could certainly provide some ideas on how to implement any potential solutions. Herbalist also knows a bit more about plants than I do, it's possible they know some kind of plant that could have potential use.

Soothslayer: Herbalist is just in that little den over there, and Architect is... ah, he's over there by the pups.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(they thank you and then stand there trying to decide for a bit. They want to go ask architect for ideas just the others might not like them around the pups. Herbalist might have some things of use but they aren't sure)

(eventually they slowly walk over to architect a Bit nervous)

Labzard: hello, architect right? I heard you were crafty and had good ideas for dealing with problems

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks over. He is holding a bunch of long plant fibers and a half made basket. Next to him is a dark purple pup and a lighter purple pup, both with a much messier half made basket. The other pups are a bit further away playing, supervised by a large fluffy slugcat and Lucky.

Architect: Hello, I suppose I am. Was Soothslayer unable to help you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: teaching them to weave bags, they seem to be doing well but needs some work. That's what practice is for! Soothslayer was able to a bit but still don't really know how to deal with the main problem other than trying to find something that would react the way I need it to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Yes, these two are quite crafty. They are getting better every day.

The dark purple pup looks up at Labzard.

Dusk: Yeah! I'm gonna be like grandpa!

Architect smiles and rubs Dusk's head.

Architect: As for your issue, I heard you mention the rot? I assume this isn't simply rotting food or life?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well isn't that good. no it isn't food rotting but its the all consuming type of rot. what im after is something that could revert the growth of rot without damaging anything else, i guess thats the best way to say it. so from rotted creatures to plants to buildings, im after a way to undo that but right now what im mostly looking at is a reactions with things that react in a way since i cant think of anything else

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: So it is more like an infection or illness? Well, have you found a way to quarantine any affected areas or creatures? Perhaps digging around an area to give the rot more surface area it has to infect before moving on? It might not be a solution, but it could buy you time.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: infection, more like a type of cancer that takes over the host. quarantining an area wouldn't work, too big. tried digging an area before but it just jumped it like a fire jumping a river then over time spread to the cleared out area. once was able to capture a live fully infected blue lizard which almost killed me but that did give some results until they ended up breaching after breaking through one of the walls which also almost killed me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks deep in thought.

Architect: That's... troubling...

Architect thinks for a moment.

Architect: Does it have any known weaknesses?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: so far just fire but that runs a bunch more risks and would like to keep that as a last resort on the other hand the cold does slow it down

There is also a type of gas that is extremely corrosive to it but it's also corrosive to metal and all organics and is very risky to work with

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: I understand your hesitation. Fire is indeed dangerous. You would need a way to harness it without the risk of it catching on yourselves or undesired areas... hm. Quite the issue. The gas also seems far too dangerous to work with. However, I have come across a kind of lizard that breathes a flurry of cold air as an attack. Perhaps it would help.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh you have? Tell me about it... Maybe I should have been writing everything down so I don't forget

(they pull out a note pad and a pencil and sits down in front of architect)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Well, it has been quite a while since I've come across it at this point. It was closer to my old colony, quite a bit north from here. As it walked around it had an aura of cold wind around it, strong enough to push away any weapons or smaller creatures from it. This aura would only dissipate after it used its attack. This attack was deadly to slugcats. It would instantly freeze the lizard's prey. I once fell victim to it. The death was instant, I barely felt anything at all. I never saw it use its attack on any other creature though...

Architect trails off and sighs.

Architect speaks softly, a hint of sadness in his voice: Wild would of have been able to tell you more. They always were knowledgeable about these kind of things.

Architect straightens out and speaks normally again: If cold slows down the rot, I'd imagine that this lizard's freezing capabilities could assist you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: does sound like it, Thank you. Where is wild? I think I might go talk to them next. Also do you know how much time till the end of cycle?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: My apologies. I shouldn't have mentioned Wild. You won't be able to talk with them...

Architect has a longing look on his face. But once again, he straightens up and looks back at Labzard with his normal expression.

Architect: It doesn't rain around here. We tend to follow the Sun cycle.

Architect looks up. The Sun is low in the sky, and the sunset is not far away.

Architect: It seems we are nearing the end of this cycle. It has been pleasant speaking with you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: ah bugger, I might have time to talk with someone else in time... Where is herbalist? Also I'm sorry about wild...

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Herbalist's den is over there. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to chat.

Architect points to a den. He looks back to Labzard with a tired expression.

Architect: Before you go, could I ask a favor?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, Yeah sure! I would be happy to. What is it?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: You are from far away, correct? If you ever see a large tan slugcat with four visible sharp teeth, looking similar to Beast... could you tell her where we are? That we're alright, and that I... would love to see them again, even if it's not permanent... I don't know for sure if Wild is alive, but I like to think she is.

Architect sighs.

Architect: Only if you happen to come across them of course. I'm not asking for you to look.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: alright! maybe i could ask my iterator to send an overseer out to find them if you want me to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: That would be appreciated. I wish you luck on your issue.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: you too. see you later maybe (labzard gives a wave then heads over to the den Archi pointed at. labzard knocks on the entrance then pokes their head in to the den) Labzard: heeeeello? its me, the lizard

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist turns around from sorting various dried herbs.

Herbalist: Hm? Oh hello!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: hello! i was wondering if you knew much about the plant life around here? im looking for something that might be able to be used as a cure for the rot and be able to essentially reverse the growth of rot

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Oh yes! I know quite a bit about all the plant life around and even a few that aren't.

She pauses.

Herbalist: Hmm, rot? Well, there are some plants that are very good at filtering harmful spores from the air. Such as star vine leaves. As for a cure, plenty of plants have natural anti-infectious properties! Fern tree leaves can be a great way to draw out infection in the body!

(The plants are technically made up but inspired by real plants with these attributes. Star Vines are based on English Ivy, and the Fern Tree is based on Naam Tree.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oooooooo alright. Always thought plants might have a way to help. Any idea where I could find a fern tree? Also do you know of anywhere nearby I could sleep at? I'm starting to get tired

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Well, fern trees grow in warmer and wet climates. I believe there's forest of them outside of the rain's domain quite a bit south from here. Close to the rain machine, but not quite within their domain.

Herbalist: As for a place to sleep, I'm sure Empath wouldn't mind you joining her and Zip-Zap at her den! I also have plenty of room here if you'd rather!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh thank you. I might go sleep with empath and zip-zap as that means cuddle pile :D

Labzard: where is their den?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist points over to a den. Zip-Zap's tail is visible from the entrance.

Herbalist: Right over there!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: thank you!

(labzard turns away with a smile on his face, more of a cheeky one as he zoops over and above the den using his claws to stick to the wall and then boops zip-zap's tail)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap: Merp!

Zip-Zap turns around to look at Labzard.

Zip-Zap chirps playfully and launches at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

labzard: ah! wait, let me take my lab coat and lanyard off

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap stops and gets low to the ground. Waiting for Labzard to be ready. His tail is whooshing back and forth. Once Labzard's coat and lanyard are off, Zip-Zap zoops right at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(he quickly takes his coat and lanyard off and chucks its to the side and turns back just to be tackled by zip-zap and starts trying to wrestle them while also trying not to scratch or accidentally bite them too badly)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap chirps happily as he wrestles back. It's hard to tell if he is trying to be gentle or just really bad at fighting. He claws and bites at nothing. He's mostly just pushing Labzard around with his body and ramming his head into him.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(one of the times zip-zap tries ramming labzard, he uses zip-zap's momentum to pick them and carry them over his head)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap makes a surprised murp as his momentum is used against him, and he is flipped over Labzard.

Zip-Zap merps in defeat, laying low.

Empath emerges from the den. Chuckling slightly.

Empath: I hope you both had fun. Good win Labzard.

Zip-Zap springs back up and nuzzles into Empath.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh we did have fun i believe, hah! sorry if i injured you Zip-Zap Labzard: the main reason im here is its getting late and Herbalist said that it might be best to ask you for a place to stay for the night. could I?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, of course you can stay the night with us! Though, I do have to warn you that Zip-Zap moves a little in his sleep. Nothing major, I personally have never had an issue, but my son often does. Though he's not here right now, it'll just be the two of us.

Zip-Zap merps at Labzard. He seems happy and uninjured.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh don't worry. I do too, also includes a little nibbling! Who is your son?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath chuckles a little.

Empath: Well alright! I'm glad it won't be a problem. As for my son, his title is Seeker, he and another member of the colony are scouting out the ruins to see if they can find a more suitable place for a permanent camp. This place is fine for now, but it isn't very protective against the elements. Seeker has a keen eye for things, shockly so, considering I am his mother, so I am sure he'll find a wonderful place.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh that's neat! Hopefully they will be fine, the cycle can be harsh sometimes. Also me nibbling in my sleep was a joke... I think, I think sometimes I might nibble stuff in my sleep. Anyways, thank you

(Labzard grabs his lab coat and lanyard and puts them both on)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Yes, I'll admit I'm a little worried about him, but he has Challenger with him, and I trust that she'll keep him safe, and that he'll keep her safe in turn. She can be rather reckless... Anyway! It is getting quite late, shall we head to bed?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: yeah sure...

(he moves past Empath into the den and finds a corner to stand in)

Labzard: How long do you reckon they might be gone for?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath heads over to the pile of bedding in the den, Zip-Zap following along. There isn't much room for Labzard to stand in. He'll have to move closer to Empath and Zip-Zap to comfortably lay down.

Empath: Hard to say. It really hasn't been too long since they've left, the ruins are quite large, I would imagine that it will take them at least another several cycles to get a good idea of the best place to move into... I hope they are doing alright.

[emerging-sun-colony]

(empath and zip zap you are minding your own business when you notice a cyan lizard wearing some kind of coat has been silently trailing you)

(a mark of comms with the symbol of a lizard starts glowing above them)

hello!

-labzard

@ask-group-pohutukawa im a man (or lizard) of my words

Zip-zap makes a noise upon noticing the lizard following them.

Empath: What is it?

Labzard: Hello!

Empath: Oh, hello. I don't mean to be rude, but... You aren't a slugcat. Right? You almost sound like a lizard...

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: since I am a lizard, like yours. I'm guessing you aren't able to see which means you won't be able to read my tag or see what I'm wearing

The name is Labzard and I come from an iterator very north west from here. I'm exploring for things I can use on research I'm doing

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh I see, well it is lovely to meet you. You can call me Empath. This is Zip-Zap. Want are you studying exactly? My colony may be able to give you some information.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well hello then zip-zap. im after things like the flora and fauna, what is special around here and cant be found else were. things like that. what is your colony like? i come from one of my own

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap churps a greeting.

Empath: Well, admittedly, we are still new to this region as well, and we're still discovering the life around here. My colony knows more than I do though. They are quite lovely, I'm sure they would like to meet you, and explain their findings. Some of them might seem a little aggressive at first, but they won't hurt you, they're just protective. I can show you to them if you'd like. Maybe you could tell me a little about your colony too.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard let's out a small chirp in response to zip-zap)

Labzard: "oh yeah that would be lovely if you could too

I come from a big colony of scavengers, slugcats and a few other types of lizards, all lead by an iterator!"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, that sounds lovely. Follow us, we'll show you to our camp. It's not much currently, two of our members are scouting out for a more permanent spot to set up.

The three head towards camp.

Beast: Welcome ba-

Beast stops upon seeing Labzard.

Beast: Wha?

He looks between Zip-Zap and Labzard, he doesn't seem hostile, just confused.

(Don't worry about response time, I took days to come back to this. I get really distracted by life stuff. I'm pretty active today, but can't guarantee that will continue.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: what is everyone's names?

oh hello!

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast's eyes widen.

Beast: Lizards can talk?

Empath: Don't be rude. This is our guest.

Beast: Umm right. I'm Beast... it's nice to meet you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: no no empath, its a valid question

Nice to meet you. For some information you can read the tag around my neck. as for why I can talk and understand you is a two way mark or something similar, my iterator just calls it a two way mark

Some side information I could say is my iterator adopted me after I got lost as a pup and raised me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast gets closer to read the tag around Labzard's neck.

Beast: Huh. Second question. What do you mean by "iterator"? I don't think I've heard that term before.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: I could explain to you later maybe but you would show me around your colony?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast looks towards Empath and then back to Labzard.

Beast: Well... sure. Come on in.

Beast leads the way and Labzard, Empath and Zip-Zap follow.

As they enter camp, a little green pup runs over and pounces on Labzard's tail.

Marsh: Roarrr

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard flinches a bit before looking to find its a pup)

Labzard: heh. little energetic one, may you get off please?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast grabs Marsh.

Beast: Marsh! You can't just- OW!

Marsh bites him and runs off. Immediately getting picked up by Lucky and put on their back.

Lucky: Sorry! Marsh gets a little over excited sometimes.

Marsh: I protect!

Empath: This is our guest, Marsh. A friend.

Marsh makes a face.

Lucky looks over to Labzard.

Lucky: Well, hi! I'm Lucky. This little trouble maker is Marsh.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "hello! if you want some more info on me then you can read my ID tag. im just exploring around for things I can use on research I'm doing"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky reads the tag.

Lucky: Oh, ok! Well, feel free to wander around camp. Herbalist already knows quite a bit about the flora around here. You can find them over there. And Soothslayer just knows a lot. They'll be around here somewhere.

Lucky looks around. Empath goes over to Labzard.

Empath: I'm going to go around letting know the colony about your presence. We don't need more confusion.

Empath walks away.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "ah, thank you empath. i might try and find soothslayer as no offense but they sound cooler, what do they look like or where would they normally be?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky: Oh, there they are!

Lucky points towards two slugcats talking to each other on the other side of camp. One is large and dark orange, while the other is gray and shorter.

Lucky: Soothslayer is just over there. They're the gray one.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, thank you

(labzard goes over there to meet them)

Labzard: hello! You are Soothslayer right? I was told you know a lot of things around here, I'm looking for unique things I could use in my research on the rot to see its affects on them

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer turns to Labzard. Architect heads off to let them speak.

Soothslayer: You must be who Empath was talking about. It is nice to meet you. I wasn't aware that a two-way mark of communication was possible.

Soothslayer: The rot... hm. I have very little experience of it myself. I've only heard of it. What have you already tested it on?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: most common plants, vegetation and some small critters which haven't really revealed much new things. What I'm trying to find is something that can reverse the effects of rot to try and fix and get rid of a massive rot patch north of my iterator without too much damage to the land and structures

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Hmm. I see. That is quite the issue. Have you played around with how it reacts to extreme temperature? Perhaps you could try to freeze or burn it.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "you cant freeze it to death without getting to below -80c, around -10c it goes into a mostly dormant state though. It is flammable and burns about as well as egg bug eggs but that also brings risks of a massive uncontrollable fire

Something I should say is that this isn't normal rot but instead a different type that we nicknamed the "Ariel" rot type"

(while saying this labzard looks around a bit nervously as if watching out for something)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Ariel rot? Hm. That's quite the issue.

They begin to mumble to themselves.

Soothslayer: Does your Iterator have any access to void fluid, or perhaps nearby echos or other strange karmic properties?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "it isnt ariel but we just call it that as amber found it first while flying one of their planes and they named it. i dont think there is any echos around my iterator's can but they do have access to void fluid"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: I see. Void fluid has many karmic properties. The Iteratior I once lived on studied it extensively and what it could do beyond releasing a soul from the cycle. My own abilities are a result of her experiments. Something to do with seeing bits of alternate cycles within the past or future. While I myself am at a loss for how it can be done, I wouldn't be surprised if rot could be affected by the cycle's natural cleansing nature.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "sounds interesting but im also not really willing to play around or try to research void fluid due to the risk of it breaching and ascending me, i might look into it though if i get desperate. any other ideas?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: That's understandable. I unfortunately don't have any definitive answers for you right now. Though, I could attempt to receive a vision tonight. If you are willing to stay overnight. They mostly are random, but in times of need, I can manifest one. I cannot guarantee anything though.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "i wouldn't mind staying over for a night. i am around here looking for new things after all so i most likely will stay around here. might as well introduce me to the others i guess then"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Alright then.

They think for a moment.

Soothslayer: I don't believe any of us know much about the rot, but Architect is rather crafty and could certainly provide some ideas on how to implement any potential solutions. Herbalist also knows a bit more about plants than I do, it's possible they know some kind of plant that could have potential use.

Soothslayer: Herbalist is just in that little den over there, and Architect is... ah, he's over there by the pups.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(they thank you and then stand there trying to decide for a bit. They want to go ask architect for ideas just the others might not like them around the pups. Herbalist might have some things of use but they aren't sure)

(eventually they slowly walk over to architect a Bit nervous)

Labzard: hello, architect right? I heard you were crafty and had good ideas for dealing with problems

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks over. He is holding a bunch of long plant fibers and a half made basket. Next to him is a dark purple pup and a lighter purple pup, both with a much messier half made basket. The other pups are a bit further away playing, supervised by a large fluffy slugcat and Lucky.

Architect: Hello, I suppose I am. Was Soothslayer unable to help you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: teaching them to weave bags, they seem to be doing well but needs some work. That's what practice is for! Soothslayer was able to a bit but still don't really know how to deal with the main problem other than trying to find something that would react the way I need it to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Yes, these two are quite crafty. They are getting better every day.

The dark purple pup looks up at Labzard.

Dusk: Yeah! I'm gonna be like grandpa!

Architect smiles and rubs Dusk's head.

Architect: As for your issue, I heard you mention the rot? I assume this isn't simply rotting food or life?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well isn't that good. no it isn't food rotting but its the all consuming type of rot. what im after is something that could revert the growth of rot without damaging anything else, i guess thats the best way to say it. so from rotted creatures to plants to buildings, im after a way to undo that but right now what im mostly looking at is a reactions with things that react in a way since i cant think of anything else

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: So it is more like an infection or illness? Well, have you found a way to quarantine any affected areas or creatures? Perhaps digging around an area to give the rot more surface area it has to infect before moving on? It might not be a solution, but it could buy you time.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: infection, more like a type of cancer that takes over the host. quarantining an area wouldn't work, too big. tried digging an area before but it just jumped it like a fire jumping a river then over time spread to the cleared out area. once was able to capture a live fully infected blue lizard which almost killed me but that did give some results until they ended up breaching after breaking through one of the walls which also almost killed me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks deep in thought.

Architect: That's... troubling...

Architect thinks for a moment.

Architect: Does it have any known weaknesses?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: so far just fire but that runs a bunch more risks and would like to keep that as a last resort on the other hand the cold does slow it down

There is also a type of gas that is extremely corrosive to it but it's also corrosive to metal and all organics and is very risky to work with

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: I understand your hesitation. Fire is indeed dangerous. You would need a way to harness it without the risk of it catching on yourselves or undesired areas... hm. Quite the issue. The gas also seems far too dangerous to work with. However, I have come across a kind of lizard that breathes a flurry of cold air as an attack. Perhaps it would help.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh you have? Tell me about it... Maybe I should have been writing everything down so I don't forget

(they pull out a note pad and a pencil and sits down in front of architect)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Well, it has been quite a while since I've come across it at this point. It was closer to my old colony, quite a bit north from here. As it walked around it had an aura of cold wind around it, strong enough to push away any weapons or smaller creatures from it. This aura would only dissipate after it used its attack. This attack was deadly to slugcats. It would instantly freeze the lizard's prey. I once fell victim to it. The death was instant, I barely felt anything at all. I never saw it use its attack on any other creature though...

Architect trails off and sighs.

Architect speaks softly, a hint of sadness in his voice: Wild would of have been able to tell you more. They always were knowledgeable about these kind of things.

Architect straightens out and speaks normally again: If cold slows down the rot, I'd imagine that this lizard's freezing capabilities could assist you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: does sound like it, Thank you. Where is wild? I think I might go talk to them next. Also do you know how much time till the end of cycle?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: My apologies. I shouldn't have mentioned Wild. You won't be able to talk with them...

Architect has a longing look on his face. But once again, he straightens up and looks back at Labzard with his normal expression.

Architect: It doesn't rain around here. We tend to follow the Sun cycle.

Architect looks up. The Sun is low in the sky, and the sunset is not far away.

Architect: It seems we are nearing the end of this cycle. It has been pleasant speaking with you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: ah bugger, I might have time to talk with someone else in time... Where is herbalist? Also I'm sorry about wild...

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Herbalist's den is over there. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to chat.

Architect points to a den. He looks back to Labzard with a tired expression.

Architect: Before you go, could I ask a favor?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, Yeah sure! I would be happy to. What is it?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: You are from far away, correct? If you ever see a large tan slugcat with four visible sharp teeth, looking similar to Beast... could you tell her where we are? That we're alright, and that I... would love to see them again, even if it's not permanent... I don't know for sure if Wild is alive, but I like to think she is.

Architect sighs.

Architect: Only if you happen to come across them of course. I'm not asking for you to look.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: alright! maybe i could ask my iterator to send an overseer out to find them if you want me to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: That would be appreciated. I wish you luck on your issue.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: you too. see you later maybe (labzard gives a wave then heads over to the den Archi pointed at. labzard knocks on the entrance then pokes their head in to the den) Labzard: heeeeello? its me, the lizard

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist turns around from sorting various dried herbs.

Herbalist: Hm? Oh hello!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: hello! i was wondering if you knew much about the plant life around here? im looking for something that might be able to be used as a cure for the rot and be able to essentially reverse the growth of rot

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Oh yes! I know quite a bit about all the plant life around and even a few that aren't.

She pauses.

Herbalist: Hmm, rot? Well, there are some plants that are very good at filtering harmful spores from the air. Such as star vine leaves. As for a cure, plenty of plants have natural anti-infectious properties! Fern tree leaves can be a great way to draw out infection in the body!

(The plants are technically made up but inspired by real plants with these attributes. Star Vines are based on English Ivy, and the Fern Tree is based on Naam Tree.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oooooooo alright. Always thought plants might have a way to help. Any idea where I could find a fern tree? Also do you know of anywhere nearby I could sleep at? I'm starting to get tired

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Well, fern trees grow in warmer and wet climates. I believe there's forest of them outside of the rain's domain quite a bit south from here. Close to the rain machine, but not quite within their domain.

Herbalist: As for a place to sleep, I'm sure Empath wouldn't mind you joining her and Zip-Zap at her den! I also have plenty of room here if you'd rather!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh thank you. I might go sleep with empath and zip-zap as that means cuddle pile :D

Labzard: where is their den?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist points over to a den. Zip-Zap's tail is visible from the entrance.

Herbalist: Right over there!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: thank you!

(labzard turns away with a smile on his face, more of a cheeky one as he zoops over and above the den using his claws to stick to the wall and then boops zip-zap's tail)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap: Merp!

Zip-Zap turns around to look at Labzard.

Zip-Zap chirps playfully and launches at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

labzard: ah! wait, let me take my lab coat and lanyard off

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap stops and gets low to the ground. Waiting for Labzard to be ready. His tail is whooshing back and forth. Once Labzard's coat and lanyard are off, Zip-Zap zoops right at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(he quickly takes his coat and lanyard off and chucks its to the side and turns back just to be tackled by zip-zap and starts trying to wrestle them while also trying not to scratch or accidentally bite them too badly)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap chirps happily as he wrestles back. It's hard to tell if he is trying to be gentle or just really bad at fighting. He claws and bites at nothing. He's mostly just pushing Labzard around with his body and ramming his head into him.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(one of the times zip-zap tries ramming labzard, he uses zip-zap's momentum to pick them and carry them over his head)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap makes a surprised murp as his momentum is used against him, and he is flipped over Labzard.

Zip-Zap merps in defeat, laying low.

Empath emerges from the den. Chuckling slightly.

Empath: I hope you both had fun. Good win Labzard.

Zip-Zap springs back up and nuzzles into Empath.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh we did have fun i believe, hah! sorry if i injured you Zip-Zap Labzard: the main reason im here is its getting late and Herbalist said that it might be best to ask you for a place to stay for the night. could I?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, of course you can stay the night with us! Though, I do have to warn you that Zip-Zap moves a little in his sleep. Nothing major, I personally have never had an issue, but my son often does. Though he's not here right now, it'll just be the two of us.

Zip-Zap merps at Labzard. He seems happy and uninjured.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh don't worry. I do too, also includes a little nibbling! Who is your son?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath chuckles a little.

Empath: Well alright! I'm glad it won't be a problem. As for my son, his title is Seeker, he and another member of the colony are scouting out the ruins to see if they can find a more suitable place for a permanent camp. This place is fine for now, but it isn't very protective against the elements. Seeker has a keen eye for things, shockly so, considering I am his mother, so I am sure he'll find a wonderful place.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh that's neat! Hopefully they will be fine, the cycle can be harsh sometimes. Also me nibbling in my sleep was a joke... I think, I think sometimes I might nibble stuff in my sleep. Anyways, thank you

(Labzard grabs his lab coat and lanyard and puts them both on)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Yes, I'll admit I'm a little worried about him, but he has Challenger with him, and I trust that she'll keep him safe, and that he'll keep her safe in turn. She can be rather reckless... Anyway! It is getting quite late, shall we head to bed?

[emerging-sun-colony]

(empath and zip zap you are minding your own business when you notice a cyan lizard wearing some kind of coat has been silently trailing you)

(a mark of comms with the symbol of a lizard starts glowing above them)

hello!

-labzard

@ask-group-pohutukawa im a man (or lizard) of my words

Zip-zap makes a noise upon noticing the lizard following them.

Empath: What is it?

Labzard: Hello!

Empath: Oh, hello. I don't mean to be rude, but... You aren't a slugcat. Right? You almost sound like a lizard...

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: since I am a lizard, like yours. I'm guessing you aren't able to see which means you won't be able to read my tag or see what I'm wearing

The name is Labzard and I come from an iterator very north west from here. I'm exploring for things I can use on research I'm doing

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh I see, well it is lovely to meet you. You can call me Empath. This is Zip-Zap. Want are you studying exactly? My colony may be able to give you some information.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well hello then zip-zap. im after things like the flora and fauna, what is special around here and cant be found else were. things like that. what is your colony like? i come from one of my own

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap churps a greeting.

Empath: Well, admittedly, we are still new to this region as well, and we're still discovering the life around here. My colony knows more than I do though. They are quite lovely, I'm sure they would like to meet you, and explain their findings. Some of them might seem a little aggressive at first, but they won't hurt you, they're just protective. I can show you to them if you'd like. Maybe you could tell me a little about your colony too.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard let's out a small chirp in response to zip-zap)

Labzard: "oh yeah that would be lovely if you could too

I come from a big colony of scavengers, slugcats and a few other types of lizards, all lead by an iterator!"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, that sounds lovely. Follow us, we'll show you to our camp. It's not much currently, two of our members are scouting out for a more permanent spot to set up.

The three head towards camp.

Beast: Welcome ba-

Beast stops upon seeing Labzard.

Beast: Wha?

He looks between Zip-Zap and Labzard, he doesn't seem hostile, just confused.

(Don't worry about response time, I took days to come back to this. I get really distracted by life stuff. I'm pretty active today, but can't guarantee that will continue.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: what is everyone's names?

oh hello!

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast's eyes widen.

Beast: Lizards can talk?

Empath: Don't be rude. This is our guest.

Beast: Umm right. I'm Beast... it's nice to meet you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: no no empath, its a valid question

Nice to meet you. For some information you can read the tag around my neck. as for why I can talk and understand you is a two way mark or something similar, my iterator just calls it a two way mark

Some side information I could say is my iterator adopted me after I got lost as a pup and raised me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast gets closer to read the tag around Labzard's neck.

Beast: Huh. Second question. What do you mean by "iterator"? I don't think I've heard that term before.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: I could explain to you later maybe but you would show me around your colony?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast looks towards Empath and then back to Labzard.

Beast: Well... sure. Come on in.

Beast leads the way and Labzard, Empath and Zip-Zap follow.

As they enter camp, a little green pup runs over and pounces on Labzard's tail.

Marsh: Roarrr

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard flinches a bit before looking to find its a pup)

Labzard: heh. little energetic one, may you get off please?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast grabs Marsh.

Beast: Marsh! You can't just- OW!

Marsh bites him and runs off. Immediately getting picked up by Lucky and put on their back.

Lucky: Sorry! Marsh gets a little over excited sometimes.

Marsh: I protect!

Empath: This is our guest, Marsh. A friend.

Marsh makes a face.

Lucky looks over to Labzard.

Lucky: Well, hi! I'm Lucky. This little trouble maker is Marsh.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "hello! if you want some more info on me then you can read my ID tag. im just exploring around for things I can use on research I'm doing"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky reads the tag.

Lucky: Oh, ok! Well, feel free to wander around camp. Herbalist already knows quite a bit about the flora around here. You can find them over there. And Soothslayer just knows a lot. They'll be around here somewhere.

Lucky looks around. Empath goes over to Labzard.

Empath: I'm going to go around letting know the colony about your presence. We don't need more confusion.

Empath walks away.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "ah, thank you empath. i might try and find soothslayer as no offense but they sound cooler, what do they look like or where would they normally be?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky: Oh, there they are!

Lucky points towards two slugcats talking to each other on the other side of camp. One is large and dark orange, while the other is gray and shorter.

Lucky: Soothslayer is just over there. They're the gray one.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, thank you

(labzard goes over there to meet them)

Labzard: hello! You are Soothslayer right? I was told you know a lot of things around here, I'm looking for unique things I could use in my research on the rot to see its affects on them

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer turns to Labzard. Architect heads off to let them speak.

Soothslayer: You must be who Empath was talking about. It is nice to meet you. I wasn't aware that a two-way mark of communication was possible.

Soothslayer: The rot... hm. I have very little experience of it myself. I've only heard of it. What have you already tested it on?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: most common plants, vegetation and some small critters which haven't really revealed much new things. What I'm trying to find is something that can reverse the effects of rot to try and fix and get rid of a massive rot patch north of my iterator without too much damage to the land and structures

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Hmm. I see. That is quite the issue. Have you played around with how it reacts to extreme temperature? Perhaps you could try to freeze or burn it.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "you cant freeze it to death without getting to below -80c, around -10c it goes into a mostly dormant state though. It is flammable and burns about as well as egg bug eggs but that also brings risks of a massive uncontrollable fire

Something I should say is that this isn't normal rot but instead a different type that we nicknamed the "Ariel" rot type"

(while saying this labzard looks around a bit nervously as if watching out for something)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Ariel rot? Hm. That's quite the issue.

They begin to mumble to themselves.

Soothslayer: Does your Iterator have any access to void fluid, or perhaps nearby echos or other strange karmic properties?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "it isnt ariel but we just call it that as amber found it first while flying one of their planes and they named it. i dont think there is any echos around my iterator's can but they do have access to void fluid"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: I see. Void fluid has many karmic properties. The Iteratior I once lived on studied it extensively and what it could do beyond releasing a soul from the cycle. My own abilities are a result of her experiments. Something to do with seeing bits of alternate cycles within the past or future. While I myself am at a loss for how it can be done, I wouldn't be surprised if rot could be affected by the cycle's natural cleansing nature.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "sounds interesting but im also not really willing to play around or try to research void fluid due to the risk of it breaching and ascending me, i might look into it though if i get desperate. any other ideas?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: That's understandable. I unfortunately don't have any definitive answers for you right now. Though, I could attempt to receive a vision tonight. If you are willing to stay overnight. They mostly are random, but in times of need, I can manifest one. I cannot guarantee anything though.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "i wouldn't mind staying over for a night. i am around here looking for new things after all so i most likely will stay around here. might as well introduce me to the others i guess then"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Alright then.

They think for a moment.

Soothslayer: I don't believe any of us know much about the rot, but Architect is rather crafty and could certainly provide some ideas on how to implement any potential solutions. Herbalist also knows a bit more about plants than I do, it's possible they know some kind of plant that could have potential use.

Soothslayer: Herbalist is just in that little den over there, and Architect is... ah, he's over there by the pups.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(they thank you and then stand there trying to decide for a bit. They want to go ask architect for ideas just the others might not like them around the pups. Herbalist might have some things of use but they aren't sure)

(eventually they slowly walk over to architect a Bit nervous)

Labzard: hello, architect right? I heard you were crafty and had good ideas for dealing with problems

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks over. He is holding a bunch of long plant fibers and a half made basket. Next to him is a dark purple pup and a lighter purple pup, both with a much messier half made basket. The other pups are a bit further away playing, supervised by a large fluffy slugcat and Lucky.

Architect: Hello, I suppose I am. Was Soothslayer unable to help you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: teaching them to weave bags, they seem to be doing well but needs some work. That's what practice is for! Soothslayer was able to a bit but still don't really know how to deal with the main problem other than trying to find something that would react the way I need it to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Yes, these two are quite crafty. They are getting better every day.

The dark purple pup looks up at Labzard.

Dusk: Yeah! I'm gonna be like grandpa!

Architect smiles and rubs Dusk's head.

Architect: As for your issue, I heard you mention the rot? I assume this isn't simply rotting food or life?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well isn't that good. no it isn't food rotting but its the all consuming type of rot. what im after is something that could revert the growth of rot without damaging anything else, i guess thats the best way to say it. so from rotted creatures to plants to buildings, im after a way to undo that but right now what im mostly looking at is a reactions with things that react in a way since i cant think of anything else

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: So it is more like an infection or illness? Well, have you found a way to quarantine any affected areas or creatures? Perhaps digging around an area to give the rot more surface area it has to infect before moving on? It might not be a solution, but it could buy you time.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: infection, more like a type of cancer that takes over the host. quarantining an area wouldn't work, too big. tried digging an area before but it just jumped it like a fire jumping a river then over time spread to the cleared out area. once was able to capture a live fully infected blue lizard which almost killed me but that did give some results until they ended up breaching after breaking through one of the walls which also almost killed me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks deep in thought.

Architect: That's... troubling...

Architect thinks for a moment.

Architect: Does it have any known weaknesses?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: so far just fire but that runs a bunch more risks and would like to keep that as a last resort on the other hand the cold does slow it down

There is also a type of gas that is extremely corrosive to it but it's also corrosive to metal and all organics and is very risky to work with

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: I understand your hesitation. Fire is indeed dangerous. You would need a way to harness it without the risk of it catching on yourselves or undesired areas... hm. Quite the issue. The gas also seems far too dangerous to work with. However, I have come across a kind of lizard that breathes a flurry of cold air as an attack. Perhaps it would help.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh you have? Tell me about it... Maybe I should have been writing everything down so I don't forget

(they pull out a note pad and a pencil and sits down in front of architect)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Well, it has been quite a while since I've come across it at this point. It was closer to my old colony, quite a bit north from here. As it walked around it had an aura of cold wind around it, strong enough to push away any weapons or smaller creatures from it. This aura would only dissipate after it used its attack. This attack was deadly to slugcats. It would instantly freeze the lizard's prey. I once fell victim to it. The death was instant, I barely felt anything at all. I never saw it use its attack on any other creature though...

Architect trails off and sighs.

Architect speaks softly, a hint of sadness in his voice: Wild would of have been able to tell you more. They always were knowledgeable about these kind of things.

Architect straightens out and speaks normally again: If cold slows down the rot, I'd imagine that this lizard's freezing capabilities could assist you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: does sound like it, Thank you. Where is wild? I think I might go talk to them next. Also do you know how much time till the end of cycle?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: My apologies. I shouldn't have mentioned Wild. You won't be able to talk with them...

Architect has a longing look on his face. But once again, he straightens up and looks back at Labzard with his normal expression.

Architect: It doesn't rain around here. We tend to follow the Sun cycle.

Architect looks up. The Sun is low in the sky, and the sunset is not far away.

Architect: It seems we are nearing the end of this cycle. It has been pleasant speaking with you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: ah bugger, I might have time to talk with someone else in time... Where is herbalist? Also I'm sorry about wild...

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Herbalist's den is over there. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to chat.

Architect points to a den. He looks back to Labzard with a tired expression.

Architect: Before you go, could I ask a favor?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, Yeah sure! I would be happy to. What is it?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: You are from far away, correct? If you ever see a large tan slugcat with four visible sharp teeth, looking similar to Beast... could you tell her where we are? That we're alright, and that I... would love to see them again, even if it's not permanent... I don't know for sure if Wild is alive, but I like to think she is.

Architect sighs.

Architect: Only if you happen to come across them of course. I'm not asking for you to look.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: alright! maybe i could ask my iterator to send an overseer out to find them if you want me to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: That would be appreciated. I wish you luck on your issue.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: you too. see you later maybe (labzard gives a wave then heads over to the den Archi pointed at. labzard knocks on the entrance then pokes their head in to the den) Labzard: heeeeello? its me, the lizard

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist turns around from sorting various dried herbs.

Herbalist: Hm? Oh hello!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: hello! i was wondering if you knew much about the plant life around here? im looking for something that might be able to be used as a cure for the rot and be able to essentially reverse the growth of rot

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Oh yes! I know quite a bit about all the plant life around and even a few that aren't.

She pauses.

Herbalist: Hmm, rot? Well, there are some plants that are very good at filtering harmful spores from the air. Such as star vine leaves. As for a cure, plenty of plants have natural anti-infectious properties! Fern tree leaves can be a great way to draw out infection in the body!

(The plants are technically made up but inspired by real plants with these attributes. Star Vines are based on English Ivy, and the Fern Tree is based on Naam Tree.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oooooooo alright. Always thought plants might have a way to help. Any idea where I could find a fern tree? Also do you know of anywhere nearby I could sleep at? I'm starting to get tired

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Well, fern trees grow in warmer and wet climates. I believe there's forest of them outside of the rain's domain quite a bit south from here. Close to the rain machine, but not quite within their domain.

Herbalist: As for a place to sleep, I'm sure Empath wouldn't mind you joining her and Zip-Zap at her den! I also have plenty of room here if you'd rather!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh thank you. I might go sleep with empath and zip-zap as that means cuddle pile :D

Labzard: where is their den?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist points over to a den. Zip-Zap's tail is visible from the entrance.

Herbalist: Right over there!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: thank you!

(labzard turns away with a smile on his face, more of a cheeky one as he zoops over and above the den using his claws to stick to the wall and then boops zip-zap's tail)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap: Merp!

Zip-Zap turns around to look at Labzard.

Zip-Zap chirps playfully and launches at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

labzard: ah! wait, let me take my lab coat and lanyard off

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap stops and gets low to the ground. Waiting for Labzard to be ready. His tail is whooshing back and forth. Once Labzard's coat and lanyard are off, Zip-Zap zoops right at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(he quickly takes his coat and lanyard off and chucks its to the side and turns back just to be tackled by zip-zap and starts trying to wrestle them while also trying not to scratch or accidentally bite them too badly)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap chirps happily as he wrestles back. It's hard to tell if he is trying to be gentle or just really bad at fighting. He claws and bites at nothing. He's mostly just pushing Labzard around with his body and ramming his head into him.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(one of the times zip-zap tries ramming labzard, he uses zip-zap's momentum to pick them and carry them over his head)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap makes a surprised murp as his momentum is used against him, and he is flipped over Labzard.

Zip-Zap merps in defeat, laying low.

Empath emerges from the den. Chuckling slightly.

Empath: I hope you both had fun. Good win Labzard.

Zip-Zap springs back up and nuzzles into Empath.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh we did have fun i believe, hah! sorry if i injured you Zip-Zap Labzard: the main reason im here is its getting late and Herbalist said that it might be best to ask you for a place to stay for the night. could I?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, of course you can stay the night with us! Though, I do have to warn you that Zip-Zap moves a little in his sleep. Nothing major, I personally have never had an issue, but my son often does. Though he's not here right now, it'll just be the two of us.

Zip-Zap merps at Labzard. He seems happy and uninjured.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh don't worry. I do too, also includes a little nibbling! Who is your son?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath chuckles a little.

Empath: Well alright! I'm glad it won't be a problem. As for my son, his title is Seeker, he and another member of the colony are scouting out the ruins to see if they can find a more suitable place for a permanent camp. This place is fine for now, but it isn't very protective against the elements. Seeker has a keen eye for things, shockly so, considering I am his mother, so I am sure he'll find a wonderful place.

[emerging-sun-colony]

(empath and zip zap you are minding your own business when you notice a cyan lizard wearing some kind of coat has been silently trailing you)

(a mark of comms with the symbol of a lizard starts glowing above them)

hello!

-labzard

@ask-group-pohutukawa im a man (or lizard) of my words

Zip-zap makes a noise upon noticing the lizard following them.

Empath: What is it?

Labzard: Hello!

Empath: Oh, hello. I don't mean to be rude, but... You aren't a slugcat. Right? You almost sound like a lizard...

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: since I am a lizard, like yours. I'm guessing you aren't able to see which means you won't be able to read my tag or see what I'm wearing

The name is Labzard and I come from an iterator very north west from here. I'm exploring for things I can use on research I'm doing

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh I see, well it is lovely to meet you. You can call me Empath. This is Zip-Zap. Want are you studying exactly? My colony may be able to give you some information.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well hello then zip-zap. im after things like the flora and fauna, what is special around here and cant be found else were. things like that. what is your colony like? i come from one of my own

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap churps a greeting.

Empath: Well, admittedly, we are still new to this region as well, and we're still discovering the life around here. My colony knows more than I do though. They are quite lovely, I'm sure they would like to meet you, and explain their findings. Some of them might seem a little aggressive at first, but they won't hurt you, they're just protective. I can show you to them if you'd like. Maybe you could tell me a little about your colony too.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard let's out a small chirp in response to zip-zap)

Labzard: "oh yeah that would be lovely if you could too

I come from a big colony of scavengers, slugcats and a few other types of lizards, all lead by an iterator!"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, that sounds lovely. Follow us, we'll show you to our camp. It's not much currently, two of our members are scouting out for a more permanent spot to set up.

The three head towards camp.

Beast: Welcome ba-

Beast stops upon seeing Labzard.

Beast: Wha?

He looks between Zip-Zap and Labzard, he doesn't seem hostile, just confused.

(Don't worry about response time, I took days to come back to this. I get really distracted by life stuff. I'm pretty active today, but can't guarantee that will continue.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: what is everyone's names?

oh hello!

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast's eyes widen.

Beast: Lizards can talk?

Empath: Don't be rude. This is our guest.

Beast: Umm right. I'm Beast... it's nice to meet you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: no no empath, its a valid question

Nice to meet you. For some information you can read the tag around my neck. as for why I can talk and understand you is a two way mark or something similar, my iterator just calls it a two way mark

Some side information I could say is my iterator adopted me after I got lost as a pup and raised me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast gets closer to read the tag around Labzard's neck.

Beast: Huh. Second question. What do you mean by "iterator"? I don't think I've heard that term before.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: I could explain to you later maybe but you would show me around your colony?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast looks towards Empath and then back to Labzard.

Beast: Well... sure. Come on in.

Beast leads the way and Labzard, Empath and Zip-Zap follow.

As they enter camp, a little green pup runs over and pounces on Labzard's tail.

Marsh: Roarrr

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(labzard flinches a bit before looking to find its a pup)

Labzard: heh. little energetic one, may you get off please?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Beast grabs Marsh.

Beast: Marsh! You can't just- OW!

Marsh bites him and runs off. Immediately getting picked up by Lucky and put on their back.

Lucky: Sorry! Marsh gets a little over excited sometimes.

Marsh: I protect!

Empath: This is our guest, Marsh. A friend.

Marsh makes a face.

Lucky looks over to Labzard.

Lucky: Well, hi! I'm Lucky. This little trouble maker is Marsh.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "hello! if you want some more info on me then you can read my ID tag. im just exploring around for things I can use on research I'm doing"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky reads the tag.

Lucky: Oh, ok! Well, feel free to wander around camp. Herbalist already knows quite a bit about the flora around here. You can find them over there. And Soothslayer just knows a lot. They'll be around here somewhere.

Lucky looks around. Empath goes over to Labzard.

Empath: I'm going to go around letting know the colony about your presence. We don't need more confusion.

Empath walks away.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "ah, thank you empath. i might try and find soothslayer as no offense but they sound cooler, what do they look like or where would they normally be?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Lucky: Oh, there they are!

Lucky points towards two slugcats talking to each other on the other side of camp. One is large and dark orange, while the other is gray and shorter.

Lucky: Soothslayer is just over there. They're the gray one.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, thank you

(labzard goes over there to meet them)

Labzard: hello! You are Soothslayer right? I was told you know a lot of things around here, I'm looking for unique things I could use in my research on the rot to see its affects on them

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer turns to Labzard. Architect heads off to let them speak.

Soothslayer: You must be who Empath was talking about. It is nice to meet you. I wasn't aware that a two-way mark of communication was possible.

Soothslayer: The rot... hm. I have very little experience of it myself. I've only heard of it. What have you already tested it on?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: most common plants, vegetation and some small critters which haven't really revealed much new things. What I'm trying to find is something that can reverse the effects of rot to try and fix and get rid of a massive rot patch north of my iterator without too much damage to the land and structures

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Hmm. I see. That is quite the issue. Have you played around with how it reacts to extreme temperature? Perhaps you could try to freeze or burn it.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "you cant freeze it to death without getting to below -80c, around -10c it goes into a mostly dormant state though. It is flammable and burns about as well as egg bug eggs but that also brings risks of a massive uncontrollable fire

Something I should say is that this isn't normal rot but instead a different type that we nicknamed the "Ariel" rot type"

(while saying this labzard looks around a bit nervously as if watching out for something)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Ariel rot? Hm. That's quite the issue.

They begin to mumble to themselves.

Soothslayer: Does your Iterator have any access to void fluid, or perhaps nearby echos or other strange karmic properties?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "it isnt ariel but we just call it that as amber found it first while flying one of their planes and they named it. i dont think there is any echos around my iterator's can but they do have access to void fluid"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: I see. Void fluid has many karmic properties. The Iteratior I once lived on studied it extensively and what it could do beyond releasing a soul from the cycle. My own abilities are a result of her experiments. Something to do with seeing bits of alternate cycles within the past or future. While I myself am at a loss for how it can be done, I wouldn't be surprised if rot could be affected by the cycle's natural cleansing nature.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "sounds interesting but im also not really willing to play around or try to research void fluid due to the risk of it breaching and ascending me, i might look into it though if i get desperate. any other ideas?"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: That's understandable. I unfortunately don't have any definitive answers for you right now. Though, I could attempt to receive a vision tonight. If you are willing to stay overnight. They mostly are random, but in times of need, I can manifest one. I cannot guarantee anything though.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: "i wouldn't mind staying over for a night. i am around here looking for new things after all so i most likely will stay around here. might as well introduce me to the others i guess then"

[emerging-sun-colony]

Soothslayer: Alright then.

They think for a moment.

Soothslayer: I don't believe any of us know much about the rot, but Architect is rather crafty and could certainly provide some ideas on how to implement any potential solutions. Herbalist also knows a bit more about plants than I do, it's possible they know some kind of plant that could have potential use.

Soothslayer: Herbalist is just in that little den over there, and Architect is... ah, he's over there by the pups.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(they thank you and then stand there trying to decide for a bit. They want to go ask architect for ideas just the others might not like them around the pups. Herbalist might have some things of use but they aren't sure)

(eventually they slowly walk over to architect a Bit nervous)

Labzard: hello, architect right? I heard you were crafty and had good ideas for dealing with problems

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks over. He is holding a bunch of long plant fibers and a half made basket. Next to him is a dark purple pup and a lighter purple pup, both with a much messier half made basket. The other pups are a bit further away playing, supervised by a large fluffy slugcat and Lucky.

Architect: Hello, I suppose I am. Was Soothslayer unable to help you?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: teaching them to weave bags, they seem to be doing well but needs some work. That's what practice is for! Soothslayer was able to a bit but still don't really know how to deal with the main problem other than trying to find something that would react the way I need it to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Yes, these two are quite crafty. They are getting better every day.

The dark purple pup looks up at Labzard.

Dusk: Yeah! I'm gonna be like grandpa!

Architect smiles and rubs Dusk's head.

Architect: As for your issue, I heard you mention the rot? I assume this isn't simply rotting food or life?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: well isn't that good. no it isn't food rotting but its the all consuming type of rot. what im after is something that could revert the growth of rot without damaging anything else, i guess thats the best way to say it. so from rotted creatures to plants to buildings, im after a way to undo that but right now what im mostly looking at is a reactions with things that react in a way since i cant think of anything else

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: So it is more like an infection or illness? Well, have you found a way to quarantine any affected areas or creatures? Perhaps digging around an area to give the rot more surface area it has to infect before moving on? It might not be a solution, but it could buy you time.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: infection, more like a type of cancer that takes over the host. quarantining an area wouldn't work, too big. tried digging an area before but it just jumped it like a fire jumping a river then over time spread to the cleared out area. once was able to capture a live fully infected blue lizard which almost killed me but that did give some results until they ended up breaching after breaking through one of the walls which also almost killed me

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect looks deep in thought.

Architect: That's... troubling...

Architect thinks for a moment.

Architect: Does it have any known weaknesses?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: so far just fire but that runs a bunch more risks and would like to keep that as a last resort on the other hand the cold does slow it down

There is also a type of gas that is extremely corrosive to it but it's also corrosive to metal and all organics and is very risky to work with

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: I understand your hesitation. Fire is indeed dangerous. You would need a way to harness it without the risk of it catching on yourselves or undesired areas... hm. Quite the issue. The gas also seems far too dangerous to work with. However, I have come across a kind of lizard that breathes a flurry of cold air as an attack. Perhaps it would help.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh you have? Tell me about it... Maybe I should have been writing everything down so I don't forget

(they pull out a note pad and a pencil and sits down in front of architect)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Well, it has been quite a while since I've come across it at this point. It was closer to my old colony, quite a bit north from here. As it walked around it had an aura of cold wind around it, strong enough to push away any weapons or smaller creatures from it. This aura would only dissipate after it used its attack. This attack was deadly to slugcats. It would instantly freeze the lizard's prey. I once fell victim to it. The death was instant, I barely felt anything at all. I never saw it use its attack on any other creature though...

Architect trails off and sighs.

Architect speaks softly, a hint of sadness in his voice: Wild would of have been able to tell you more. They always were knowledgeable about these kind of things.

Architect straightens out and speaks normally again: If cold slows down the rot, I'd imagine that this lizard's freezing capabilities could assist you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: does sound like it, Thank you. Where is wild? I think I might go talk to them next. Also do you know how much time till the end of cycle?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: My apologies. I shouldn't have mentioned Wild. You won't be able to talk with them...

Architect has a longing look on his face. But once again, he straightens up and looks back at Labzard with his normal expression.

Architect: It doesn't rain around here. We tend to follow the Sun cycle.

Architect looks up. The Sun is low in the sky, and the sunset is not far away.

Architect: It seems we are nearing the end of this cycle. It has been pleasant speaking with you.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: ah bugger, I might have time to talk with someone else in time... Where is herbalist? Also I'm sorry about wild...

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: Herbalist's den is over there. I'm sure they'd be more than willing to chat.

Architect points to a den. He looks back to Labzard with a tired expression.

Architect: Before you go, could I ask a favor?

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh, Yeah sure! I would be happy to. What is it?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: You are from far away, correct? If you ever see a large tan slugcat with four visible sharp teeth, looking similar to Beast... could you tell her where we are? That we're alright, and that I... would love to see them again, even if it's not permanent... I don't know for sure if Wild is alive, but I like to think she is.

Architect sighs.

Architect: Only if you happen to come across them of course. I'm not asking for you to look.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: alright! maybe i could ask my iterator to send an overseer out to find them if you want me to

[emerging-sun-colony]

Architect: That would be appreciated. I wish you luck on your issue.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: you too. see you later maybe (labzard gives a wave then heads over to the den Archi pointed at. labzard knocks on the entrance then pokes their head in to the den) Labzard: heeeeello? its me, the lizard

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist turns around from sorting various dried herbs.

Herbalist: Hm? Oh hello!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: hello! i was wondering if you knew much about the plant life around here? im looking for something that might be able to be used as a cure for the rot and be able to essentially reverse the growth of rot

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Oh yes! I know quite a bit about all the plant life around and even a few that aren't.

She pauses.

Herbalist: Hmm, rot? Well, there are some plants that are very good at filtering harmful spores from the air. Such as star vine leaves. As for a cure, plenty of plants have natural anti-infectious properties! Fern tree leaves can be a great way to draw out infection in the body!

(The plants are technically made up but inspired by real plants with these attributes. Star Vines are based on English Ivy, and the Fern Tree is based on Naam Tree.)

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oooooooo alright. Always thought plants might have a way to help. Any idea where I could find a fern tree? Also do you know of anywhere nearby I could sleep at? I'm starting to get tired

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist: Well, fern trees grow in warmer and wet climates. I believe there's forest of them outside of the rain's domain quite a bit south from here. Close to the rain machine, but not quite within their domain.

Herbalist: As for a place to sleep, I'm sure Empath wouldn't mind you joining her and Zip-Zap at her den! I also have plenty of room here if you'd rather!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh thank you. I might go sleep with empath and zip-zap as that means cuddle pile :D

Labzard: where is their den?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Herbalist points over to a den. Zip-Zap's tail is visible from the entrance.

Herbalist: Right over there!

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: thank you!

(labzard turns away with a smile on his face, more of a cheeky one as he zoops over and above the den using his claws to stick to the wall and then boops zip-zap's tail)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap: Merp!

Zip-Zap turns around to look at Labzard.

Zip-Zap chirps playfully and launches at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

labzard: ah! wait, let me take my lab coat and lanyard off

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap stops and gets low to the ground. Waiting for Labzard to be ready. His tail is whooshing back and forth. Once Labzard's coat and lanyard are off, Zip-Zap zoops right at Labzard.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(he quickly takes his coat and lanyard off and chucks its to the side and turns back just to be tackled by zip-zap and starts trying to wrestle them while also trying not to scratch or accidentally bite them too badly)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap chirps happily as he wrestles back. It's hard to tell if he is trying to be gentle or just really bad at fighting. He claws and bites at nothing. He's mostly just pushing Labzard around with his body and ramming his head into him.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

(one of the times zip-zap tries ramming labzard, he uses zip-zap's momentum to pick them and carry them over his head)

[emerging-sun-colony]

Zip-Zap makes a surprised murp as his momentum is used against him, and he is flipped over Labzard.

Zip-Zap merps in defeat, laying low.

Empath emerges from the den. Chuckling slightly.

Empath: I hope you both had fun. Good win Labzard.

Zip-Zap springs back up and nuzzles into Empath.

[ask-group-pohutukawa]

Labzard: oh we did have fun i believe, hah! sorry if i injured you Zip-Zap Labzard: the main reason im here is its getting late and Herbalist said that it might be best to ask you for a place to stay for the night. could I?

[emerging-sun-colony]

Empath: Oh, of course you can stay the night with us! Though, I do have to warn you that Zip-Zap moves a little in his sleep. Nothing major, I personally have never had an issue, but my son often does. Though he's not here right now, it'll just be the two of us.

Zip-Zap merps at Labzard. He seems happy and uninjured.