Vaan's Nest.

[Correctional Forces]

Build a lot like the rest, this small two story home is perfect for a small family to live comfortably. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms added to the mix, the place is nothing short of impressive. Newly built and freshly painted, the new house feel was certainly something the owners would have to get used to. 

[Correctional Forces]

[Enter JO from Main street]

Walking up to the new home readily available for the griffon, the changeling awaited their presence eagerly. While in wait, light blue eyes took hold of the nice homes along this street with slight envy. While being the Queens soldier got him a lot of benefits, a home seperated from her was never likely. Knowing and accepting this, JO felt honored to be here when he saw his furnished brand new place ready in wait. "My Queen, I will be back shortly. The construction works did a fantastic job with the new homes." Speaking to himself, the transmitted message would reach her majesty, in time.

[Astral Midnight]

[Enter Astral from Main Street]

Approaching the house, Astral felt his emotions stir. Glancing around the parts of the house he could see, Astral felt happy for Vaan. "It's nice to see a ruler actually caring for their subjects." Astral more or less mumbled to himself.

He was reminded of the only time he could remember living in a house. It took all the money the group had, and they were kicked out nearly instantly when the oldest six left.

Perhaps Chrysalis was the ruler that Equestria needed. He felt even more appreciative of Chrysalis upon seeing this act of kindness.

[Vaan]

Talon by talon, the griffon inched through the doorway of his new home, not sure if what he was experiencing was real or a coma dream. He took it all in as if he'd never see the place again. The paint, the wood, the smell, the funiture, etc...he took it all in, not wanting to let it go. The only other thing that surpassed the beauty of home was the thought of his wife and child.

Without hesitation, Vaan dropped his bag with a thud and walked to the nearest wall. He floated his hand above it, afraid to ruin it with his dirty talons. Though, he finally relented and laid his claws on the wall. He felt the texture of the paint and a warmness that began to spread though him. Not temperature, yet more of a feeling. One he hasn't felt in years. One he welcomed fully.

"You know, this is going to take some getting use to," Vaan spoke, more to himself but loud enough to spread around the room, "Years of tents, abandoned buildings, trees, laying on top of buddies really takes a toll on a guy. Yet, I got used to those places. It made moving around easier; I never had to settle and could do my job easier. Though now...with this house...it may take some getting used to, but it's necessary to raise a little bird. She'll be happy to be here...and I'll be happy.  Nevertheless, tell the Queen I'm extremely grateful. In one day, she has changed my life more than Celestia or the griffon rulers. She has my allegiance from here on out and my talents are her's to command."

[Correctional Forces]

"Your message will be given. We only hope to see a bright future for us all." Warmed at the touch of Vaan's emotions spewing out of him in waves, JO found himself blessed. Enjoying watching them change lives for the better instead of worse, he could only wish his Queen were here to listen to this herself.

Stepping on the rim of the doorway and saluting the griffons new allegiance, the changeling would surely have to return to report the happy ending. Scanning over the stallion however, JO couldn't help but have an idea he was certain the Queen might like. "Sir Astral, perhaps you should make sure Vaan gets accommodated to his needs? Unfortunately, I must head back to the Queen. You creatures give us a second chance, we thank you."

[Astral Midnight]

Astral watched Vaan, feeling very happy. Everything just seemed right. He couldn't help but smile, none of his usual negativity in his mind.

Suddenly hearing his name, Astral shook himself out of his little trance. Taking a moment to process JO's words, Astral nodded. "Y-yes, yes. I'll stay and help out a bit." He replied, smiling at JO. It felt good to smile, and not be so negative all the time. Perhaps this is exactly what Astral needed? Only time could tell for sure. With a small spring in his stride, Astral made his way over towards Vaan, waiting to see if he needed anything.

[Vaan]

"No problem, JO, "Vaan spoke as he stepped away from the wall, "I'll cya around and hopefully have a pint with ya here soon."

After his goodbye, Vaan walked to his dropped bag, unzipped it, and reached in deep for something specific. He didn't find it first, yet he did find a secondary blue scarf which he wrapped around his scarred neck. Then he returned to searching. Once he found it, he pulled out a worn picture frame. He examined it for a moment before noticing Astral-looking a bit different- heading towards him. Feeling as if this moment should be shared, he wiped the dusty picture on his fur coat and then showed it to the stallion.

"This picture is from six years ago. When I looked a lot better, "Vaan chuckled, pointing to each bird in the frame, " There's my little girl who could barely fly, and my late wife. Anyway, I suppose I should empty my bag some more. Not like I have alot , but it'll make this place feel more like home, right?"

[Correctional Forces]

Offering a soft yet noticeable nod to the griffon for his kind words, JO soon moved to turn out the door. Mentally hoping Astral would learn from gaining a friend, the changeling found himself pleased. "Do not hesitate to contact us for anything. I will see you again." Walking out, he certainly accomplished something today. Unable to hide his excitement for the Queen to hear, JO galloped off.

[Exit JO]

[Astral Midnight]

Astral stopped not too far from Vaan, and looked at the picture. His smile widened slightly as happy thoughts came to him. Hearing Vaan speak again, Astral's ears perked up. "O-ooh. Uh, yeah. Wouldn't hurt. This is your new home, after all."

[Vaan]

"Alright, mate," Vaan said, as he grabbed and dumped the bag of all its contents. A few basic items poured out of the bag. Mostly all of it went into the kitchen, "This is the emptiest this bag has been. It's usually filled with...other people stuff."

[Astral Midnight]

Astral watched Vaan's actions carefully, smiling once he was done.

"I'm glad you're settling in so well. Anything you need help with around here?" He asked, trying to make some use of himself. His stomach growled slightly from the talk of food earlier, but he chose to ignore it for now. He still had some bread in his bag from that nice mare earlier, so he could eat if he needed. Smiling still, Astral awaited Vaan's answer.

[Vaan]

Vaan grabbed the items and turned towards the kitchen before speaking, " Well, after I put this stuff away, I'll do a quick inspection of the house, make sure no one's lurking. Just old habits of mine."

His ear twitched towards the sounds of hunger, and reminded him of his own. His bag was empty of food,and he didn't too much feel like hunting. Though, roasted squirrels sounded great. He figured if you walked around the city long enough you will find a place to eat. That or he would invade the castle kitchen.

[Astral Midnight]

Astral nodded and day down, waiting for Vaan to do his thing. Gently swaying to the melody of an old lullaby that his packmates used to sing, Astral retreated to his mind for a bit.

Memories of the good times flowed through his mind. Playing hide-and-seek through all of Cloudsdale, watching Sky and Aurora soar through the air at tremendous speeds, Iron trying his best to keep up with them. He felt a warm feeling inside as he remembered the journey to Canterlot, after having left Cloudsdale. All of the good times in Canterlot, even after the pack broke up.

As if to protect his good mood, his memories of the forest appeared fuzzy at best. He couldn't seem to recall words said, songs sang, places explored. Even the arrangement of the campsite was seemingly wiped from his memory. Maybe this was a good thing. For now, he returned to those early Cloudsdale memories.

[Vaan]

Vaan carried his stuff and stepped into the kitchen of his home. The first of many times he would do this. He was shocked by how it looked. Fresh, clean, and never been used. Even his old kitchen didn't look this good. With an eager smile, he opened the cabinets and inhaled the wood smell. With a calm sigh, he placed the spices and other items into their correct place. He wanted so bad to try and cook, yet with not supplies, he had nothing to make. That wouldn't last long.

Next, the griffon walked the house. Nothing seemed out of place;not other creature waited to ambush him. During this check, he was given an oppurtunity to see the rooms. They were beautiful. He knew which one his daughter would take and which one he'd share with himself. Part of him dropped once he thought of sleeping alone. Not like it mattered. He'd been doing it for years. This time, he'd be comfortable and safe.

Happy with his check, Vaan made his way back to the stallion who seemed to be in a more positive mood. It seemed like today was looking up for everyone. (Except the pony who died.)

"Well, you seem awfully cheery," Vaan joked, scooping the rest of his stuff into a "to be sorted pile".

[Astral Midnight]

Astral, deep in thought, blinked and shook himself back into the real world upon hearing the gryphon's voice. "Ooh. Uh, yeah. Just though of some good memories, that's all." He responded, lowering his head slightly in embarrassment.

[Vaan]

"Nothing wrong with that, "assured Vaan, " those memories are what keep us going."

Looking around his new home and deciding there was nothing else he could do at the moment, the Griffin decided it was time to lock up and find some food.

"How about before this day comes to a close, you 'n I grab a bite to eat? If we can't find a restaurant, we'll just raid the castle kitchen."

[Astral Midnight]

Astral nodded and stood up, still smiling. "Yeah, sure. Sounds good." He adjusted his cloak on his back and waited for Vaan to lead the way.

[Vaan]

Getting ready to leave, Vaan placed his now empty bag back on his back. It's been sometime since it was light and felt a bit weird to the griffon. Next, he tightened his quiver and placed his crossbow on his side,dangling from it's strap. With everything in place, he felt ready to leave.

Now, he didn’t know exactly where he was, or how to maneuver the city, but getting lost was half the fun. With a smirk, he opened his door to leave.

[Exit Vaan to Main street.]

[Astral Midnight]

Astral watched Vaan prepare to leave, and prepared himself as well. Once he knew he had all his things, he followed Vaan out.

[Exit Astral to Main Street]