This week, in "Occupied Equestria":
Wondering through through the Changeling lands at night on the road between Bales and Whinnyapolis, Onyx, Brie, and Spark have stumbled upon a set of farm ponies trying to hide their cattle in the forest, away from their changeling occupiers. While rescuing a cow, Onyx and Brie have taken heavy damage, and so they followed them to the cabin of a local woodspony. But they found the woodspony and a farmer replaced by changelings, and after a skirmish are alone and wounded in the cabin in the woods.
Over in Baltimare, Dark Star has decided to give up his life as Dark Star, the Earth Pony farm colt, to become Tyrel Jackson, or "Gold Chains," a zebra and aspiring rap artist. Through the magic of Valmorification, it is possible. Iron is freaking out after possibly having received a message from God herself. That, and his usual social awkwardness. Silver is cashing out on a long standing set of projects, and is readying himself for the next phase
>>109000Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee?
Boop
>>109000>>108977 →He opens the door and steps out then he helps blue out.
He walks up to the passenger side window and pays the cabby
>>109002EEEEEEEE!
I don't know how much time you have now or later, but Brie can either stay with the group in this little excursion, or poof ahead
>>108995 →If there is a washtub out here, it is not located inside of the cabin
>>108982 →Silver follows Glass Horizons to the bank, where there is an awkward session of Glass Horizon trying to withdraw cash, the teller trying to tell him that exchange for coin is not available, and ultimately what seems to be an exchange of a bribe
>>1090055 bits and paid. Blue Skies steps out like a lady. They go into the tavern
>>109000I always love new bread, fresh from the oven.
>>109008If Silver knew it would be that much of a hassle for the pony, he would have relented on the matter of coins, but since it's already this far into it, he waits patiently.
>>109008Group? Excursion? Explain your smolness
>>109011Onyx and Spark followed Ruby to the meadow and the cabin where ruby said they would meet Dawson. They found "dawson" and "red wine," but they turned out to be recently replaced changelings. They killed them, and took the unconscious Ruby into the cabin, as well as are trying to heal. Brie can either participate in this, or cut ahead
>>109010"They are reluctant to exchange coins on a 1 for 1 basis" he confides to Silver
>>109008Onyx is just content with a swig of vodka then, noting to ask Spark for help when he gets the chance
>>109012Silver gives him a confused look. "I do not understand why coins have become so valuable all of sudden...anyways, it is not big issue if you can not provide coins, not so much that I would want to inconvenience you."
>>109015>Am so tempted to explain the macroeconomics behind it"No, we can get some coins"
He goes back to haggling
>>109014Now what does Onyx need?
>>109016Silver's unsure if him trying to assist in the haggle would help or hinder Glass Horizon's efforts, considering his rather dull, dirt tongue.
>>109008He Walks to glimmering glass. and takes a seat on one of the stools.
>>108978 →Seeing as he is inside of a small apartment he would either run into a wall, run into the kitchen, or run into the front door
>>109018Glimmering glass stares at him
>>109017After more math, Glass Horizon eventually comes up with 1000 bits
>>109019You have to admire his perseverance. Silver nods and takes the Bits once they're offered. "Thank you."
>>109021Now, Silver has 1000 in coin in big bags, plus a number of paper notes issued from more than one bank, East Equestrian notes, and what seems to be bond papers
>>109016Opioids.
Maybe some bandages.
>>109022Any specific breakdown on how much of each he has?
>>109023Uh.... This isn't quite MAGA country as you understand it. No opiods in the cabin
>>109024Like a thousand of each, probably, maybe 3000 of that in Bonds
>>109025So, about 1,000 in coins, 3,000 in bonds, and 5,000 in notes?
>>109027Good to know.
Silver offers Glass another hoofshake. "It has been pleasure, Mr. Horizons."
>>109019"How's it going mr.glass? business doing good?"
He asks cheerfully
>>109029He narrows his eyes at him
"Sir, this is a Pony establishment"
>>109028He shakes his hoof
"And thank you"
>>109030"Perhaps we may work together again in future."
>>109031"Well, let's wait and see where the future takes us. I hope I don't have to clear bombs and lichs for any future apartment buildings though..."
>>109030He Shows his badge.
"Relax Glass, it's me Dark Star"
He Grins
>>109025Spark searches around the cabin for supplies to help the injured ponies.
>>109032Silver throws his head back for a small laugh. "Let us hope, indeed. Again, it has been pleasure." Silver leaves the bank for the cathedral once again. He hopes he's not bothering Father Maren with how often he comes to him for help.
>>109034>>109023There is indeed one set of bandages, as well as iodine
>>109035He does so. The cathedral is available again. There are no ponies lingering outside as there were earlier
>>109033"Dark Star?? The Hell are you doing looking like a Zebra?"
>>109036He rushes over to tend to the ponies.
>>109038Inside of the cabin is an unconscious Ruby, Onyx, and Brie
>>109036Silver immediate begins to search for Father Maren. "Father? Are you here?"
>>109040He's in the back, looks like he was leaning back falling asleep
"Huh?"
He get's up, confused
"Oh. It's you again. You survived the Lich" he says
>>109039Spark wishes he attended healing magic classes back at Canterlot. He attempts to patch up Onyx first.
>>109042Hmmm.... Roll Wisdom
>>109041Silver nods. "I would venture to guess that we successfully ended his undead life when we destroyed the phylactery. On that, I would like to make one more request for aid, or that you might point me towards those who can give it. There are lot of bodies in quarry and catacombs now that have not been given proper burials or rites. I was hoping you, or somepony you know, might be able to help me to rectify that, and perhaps give their souls some further peace in afterlife."
[1d20 = 20]>>109043Darn it.
>>109045>>109046Well.... I think Spark bandaged Onyx up pretty well
>>109044"Mass Interment? I guess we can do that. I'll ask Sundew about it"
>>109037"It's for work."
He Grimaces
"i suggest you stay away from any docks for awhile."
>>109048".... May I ask why?" He continues cleaning a glass
>>109047Silver gives him a grateful smile. "Thank you. I do not relish thought of leaving their remains exposed to elements."
>>109050"Nor do I. Any corpse cursed to animation for centuries deserves a proper and respectful interment at the end of it"
>>109025Hey, you said need. Now what's in the cabin is different entirely.
>>109051He nods. "...It may seem odd of me to ask, but will that include Curwhinny himself? Even his remains deserve respectful treatment."
>>109052"Feeling better now?"
>>109054"Yeah, thanks Spark"
He nods before looking around
"How is Ruby doing?"
>>109055"Alive, but not moving. Can you keep an eye on him while I patch up our bat?"
>>109055Empty Cabin, the fire is burning. Ruby is petrified on the floor
>>109053He gives a surprised look, as if he hadn't thought of it
"I guess it could"
>>109057"Again, I understand if it seems weird, but it would mean lot to me."
>>109049his voice takes on a serious tone.
"Bad business going on down there. i'm going to look into putting a stop to it. i don't want to say to much. but seriously don't go down to the docks unless absolutely necessary."
>>109059"Oh... Well, I didn't really have any business down there anyways"
>>109058He nods
"It is good that the dead have somepony who cares and looks after their remains"
>>109060"There are sadly few who do." He reaches into his bags and pulls out 500 Bits worth of notes. "I would also like to donate, before I leave. It is not much, I know, but I want to give something, that you all might be able to continue to help ponies."
>>109019Oh. I guess I could just open the door and run away.Damn, I missed the new thread for quite a while.Iron focuses his attention on trying to open Cauldron's apartment's front door feverishly.
(Come on, door. Let me through.)
>>109060"I Need the best maretini you can make and an apple whiskey please."
>>109061He takes the money, and does a small bow
“Thank you, kind stallion. We don’t get as much support now that we are cut off from Canterlot, and with so many ponies in need”
>>109063Well, it’s unlocked
>>109064He does so, making a pretty good marketing, and an apple whiskey
>>109065"With so much uncertainty after Equestria's surrender, and so many lost ponies looking for guidance, I know you need all aid you can get." He holds his hoof out for a hoofshake. "Just wanted to thank you for all you do, not just for me, but for all ponies."
>>109066And his wrinkly old face gives a smile
“Thank you...”
>>109065He hurriedly opens the door, quickly dashing away from the building, through the stairs and outside in a rush.
(Retreat and plan the next course of action!)
>>109067He continues to hold his hoof out, not wanting to be left hanging. "May Her light always guide your hoofsteps."
>>109068Uh, okay. There’s a narrow, level hallway, then a set of stairs, more hallway... it can be confusing
>>109069“And May her light guide yours...”
Then he adds
“Perchance... would you like to help the Church?”
>>109070Silver's ears perk up. "What would you need assistance with?"
>>109071“It can be anything from helping the poor, helping ponies with trauma or psychological issues, to the dealing with the occasional recurrences of ancient threats”
>>109070Yeah. I know. He's a bit too scared for his own good. Trust me, things will wrap up satisfactory at the end of the day/group quest, after he mulls over how to spill the beans.Mostly because I want it to be a night confession.Iron looks from side to side.
(Where to, Where to...?)
He gallops towards the hallway with the stairs visible in order to go down them.
>>109072He nods. "I could try to help however I can. All I would need is to be pointed in direction of those in need."
[1d20 = 19]>>109070Spark patches up the bat next.
>>109073It really should already be night
He descends at least one level
>>109074“Well, it looks like you’ve found yourself something already with the bodies at the farm. We’d want to get the priest on that, and maybe some other volunteers”
>>109075Pretty successful
>>109073Because it's the second-best time to bone?>>109075I'm half tempted to make Silver buy Spark a nurse's outfit next time he sees him.>>109076"I would be happy to volunteer. Do you have any idea when that might be?"
>>109077“It’s late today. Perhaps tomorrow. Assuming the corpses do not start to rot...”
>>109078Silver nods, understanding just how unpleasant that would be. "Well, let us hope they do not decompose too much. I shall head there tomorrow to volunteer."
>>109077S-silence, you!Yes.>>109076As in, they woke up super early and it is nightfall or...You mean I was supposed to confess now?If it's the latter, you can make him trip if you want to.Iron is getting a bit nauseous over having to think while in a panic, going down into
(How many stairs are there? They are beginning to look the same.)
>>109076Nice. Spark tends to Ruby, but not with rolls because bandages can't fix this one.
>>109077Umm....
>>109080It’s about the same time for Iron as everypony else. I was thinking about having a delegate challenge/event for Iron with the gang, but nah. Nevermind.
Iron finds the door eventually
>>109081His eyes are open, but he is not conscious
>>109079“Very well. Thank you.”
>>109082What do you mean by delegate challenge/event?Silver waves goodbye to Maren before leaving for the catacombs one final time. He left the supplies he bought in the basement of the ruined farmhouse, and he's going to gather them back up.
He also looks at the pocket watch he bought to check the time. He's not sure if the stores are still open or not.
>>109082Oh. Well now I actually feel bad. Fuck me.I was thinking the groupquest would be starting in a bit, and entering quests alone again would be a bad idea, all things considered. Now I'm not so sure.My weakness is Iron's weakness, sadly.He desperately scratches the door with his hooves, one of them able to maybe open the door.
(Come on! Open up!)
>>109083If they are open until late, then yes
He does so
>>109084He eventually finds a nob, and turns it
>>109082He pats the colt's head.
>>109085Iron swings the door open and closes it when he goes outside, then proceeds to run in a straight line, looking for any alleys or secluded places to think for the time being.
>>109086He is non-responsive
>>109087Past more buildings, ponies... eventually there is an alley. It kind of smells
>>109085Likely not any place he would buy from. He'll have to wait until tomorrow.
With that, Silver heads for home, several thousand Bits richer today than he was yesterday. He looks up into the night sky as he trots.
Luna's creation is brilliant in this chilly winter air.Here's a question related to the Craft skill: with as slow as in-game time is moving, will crafting items still require the same amount of time as normal, or are there any special rules in place to hasten the process so crafting won't require literal months of real-life waiting?
>>109088Iron, disregarding the smell, just goes straight into it.
>>109088Spark just keeps him company, not sure how to fix this.
>>109089Perhaps with the air of industrial equipment
>>109090And there he is. In an empty, smelly alley, next to a trash can
>>109091What can the spark do?
>>109092I wonder if you are able to Dreamwalk, still, in your changeling imprisonment. I hope you still can. Your ponies need your help gravely with coping with their loss of their country and their princesses.
>>109092Iron's nose scrunches from the smell, temporarily distracting him from the panic.
(This places reeks.)
And with that, Iron finally can think with a semblance of clarity.
(...that was quite disgraceful.)
He puts a hoof on his foreleg, looking down at the trash, feeling like he should be part of it.
(I cannot believe I just did that.)
His eyes dart around.
(Why did I ask that? I
knew from the nun that I should not talk or touch mares anywhere without knowing for sure if they want to or not, and from the dream, she was a closet harmonist, or at least she aspires to be one.)
Deep inside, he knows why.
(It would have made it so much easier to know if she was into me.)
But now that he basically forced himself to spill out that part first, the uncertainty slimed its way into the mind of the stallion. Now he has to admit all of that, in front of her.
(Pear
was right. Now how am I going to do it?)
He looks up to see the time.
>>109093Those ponies do need her help and her guiding light. But they were on their own for a thousand years. They may be on their own again for a thousand more
>>109094For all sad words of pen and tongue, the saddest are these: Pear was right again
It’s twilight... or something
>>109095It is a thought that does not excite Silver in the slightest. He smacks his lips together, suddenly feeling more parched than he was.
I need drink. I wonder if Glass has anything which might fix that.
>>109096Silver’s problem, like most problems, has a solution
>>109097Indeed it does. Onwards to the Tavern, to drop off his equipment and supplies in his room, and slake his thirst at the bar.
>>109095Iron's mood darkens a bit, seeing both the little time he has left as well as the grimness of confirming Pear's words.
"I have little time. Where could I ever find somepony who can help me with this?"
He inhales deeply, before coughing from the bad smell.
"I have no idea."
He decides to get up from his spot nonetheless.
"Perhaps I should try at bars? That is where ponies 'go and talk' about stuff are, as Cauldron said. Perhaps I could find some old stallion who experienced the same as me."
He pauses.
"I think. Better than here, with the trash."
Iron trash tier confirmed.He ponders which of the two bars he should go.
(Watering Hole sounds like a place to stumble on Cauldron while midtalk, which could turn negative. Perhaps that other bar we used to set up that foal rescue yesterday could do the trick.)
With that, he starts to walk at that particular bar, hoping he knows the directions.
>>109099Watering hole is definitely a good way to stumble into cauldron
>>109098Thus, he does so. He would see Blue Skies with a zebra stallion at the bar
>>109100That Dark Star? I can not recognize him, if it is. Silver finds a seat at the bar (preferably next to Blue and Zeeb Star).
>>109100Good thing he's not going there.
He walks at a slow pace towards the bar who had the barstallion named Glass if he remembers correctly.
(I hope I know where I am going.)
>>109102With an almost supernatural sense, Iron guides himself towards possible alcohol and trouble
>>109101It does seem to be Blue Skies there though. Unless she just went off to have drinks with a random zebra. Her mane is prettier and more well done than usual, as is her coat
>>109103Silver whistles at the sight. "Looks like they treated you
very well at spa." He leans back in his seat to look at the zebra. "And who is this mysterious gentlestallion?"
>>109103The alcohol he despised is mindlinking the location, of course.How else can drunks and loners ever get to drinking places?Iron slowly opens the establishment's door, entering cautiously like an ape ninja.
>>109104“My new coltfriend” she says, hugging his foreleg
>>109106"My, isn't he
strapping. I believe you have struck gold with this fine lad." He feigns jealousy at her "acquisition".
>>109107In Silver's verbal Irony, Blue Skies finds herself in a position where, while not expecting or hoping for sincere jealousy, finds herself disappointed to confirm its absence
"So why are you here?"
>>109105And thus, he does so
>>109108He scans the area from the door, hoping to find an old stallion drowning their anything.
>>109108Silver orders a whiskey from Glass for himself, and one for Blue. His confusion about why she's disappointed is slightly apparent. "I finished that job you gave me. Came here looking for drink, since most shops are now closed." He looks again at Dark Star. "I can barely recognize him."
>>109110>His confusion about why she's disappointed is slightly apparentThis sinks into her for a moment as she sits in silence
"So you did...." Another moment
"He thinks it will help him infiltrate"
>>109111Silver might not know exactly why she would be upset at a lack of jealousy, but that doesn't mean he won't try to comfort her. He throws a foreleg around her in a hug.
>>109112I guess she was dissapointed he's not the least bothered for dating other stallions and keeping her for himself or something.
>>109109And now, he can see, of all ponies, Silver. Also the bitchy blue pony that Star was dating
>>109113I mean, he's not jealous at Skies for her zebra Star coltfriend, and that's what Silver is confused about.
>>109112The hair is finer than before, carefully washed and set, and with a venir of softness. Her emotional state is not changed
[1d20+3 = 12]>>109116Sense Motive:
Why is she upset that I am not jealous of her? He strokes her soft hair while that question stews in his mind, and as he looks at Blue's silent form for answers.
>>109114Iron glances to the sides, clearly troubled.
(Oh no. Not
her. The last thing I want is her to blackmail me with this information.)
He looks at Silver.
(But Silver could help out. He is old, so perhaps he suffered something similar to my predicament.)
After mulling it over, he inhales deeply and sighing before taking the leap.
(I am
not going to cower. You can do this, Iron. Come on!)
He straightens his postures, keeps his head high and walks over to the two ponies present, sitting
>>109115It's a roundabout way of trying to confirm how strong you feel for her.Silver can hear heavy hoofsteps to the side, seeing Iron sit at the side available at a respectable distance.
He says nothing for now.
>>109117Jealousy is a crude proxy for love, and Skies wants to be the mare everypony chases.
Especially because of their history
\r
>>109119So, she thinks... "Ohhhhhhhh." Silver very audibly understands. He's...not entirely sure how to correct that assumption Blue has in her mind, with the present company. He just hopes she can understand that the lack of jealousy isn't directed at where she might think it is.
>>109119Silver glances over at Iron. "Oh, hello Iron. Good to see you are still alive. Give me minute, here."
>>109120Iron nods, not too preoccupied with the mare he currently is consoling.
(I thought that was Star's job.)
>>109119Dammit, I am not ready at all to deal with this.
>>109122Damnit! Don't make Iron lose hope on you for Cauldronic advice.
>>109122He can just ignore her
>>109123I dunno, man, it was just supposed to be a lighthearted joke like "haha Silver's acting like he wants to bone Dark Star", and then this shit happens in the worst possible situation for it to happen. Silver wasn't talking about being jealous over Blue Skies at all, he just wanted to have a good time with his two favorite ponies before offering some advice to one of his other favorite ponies. Fuck.
>>109125You can always ignore her. That'll do the trick, my guy. Iron would more likely commend you for it. The worst you could do is spill your spaghetti.
>>109126But that's the thing, Silver can't just ignore it now, it would mean leaving Blue Skies out to dry as she remains miserable.
>>109126Iron's a pro at it. He threw spaghetti at Cauldron and ran like a squid trying to escape a predator
>>109125I don't know. Maybe I misread Silver's dialogue
>>109128You're not wrong. He's a fighter, not a talker.
If confessions were done with wrestling, he would've nailed it day 1.
>>109128I mean, she took the worst and most incorrect assumption of what he meant: there is indeed jealousy about how Dark Star and her can just do things in the open. He was just making a joke about how he acted the night before.
Sorry about disappearing, what'd I miss?
>>109131Not much. I healed Brie and now I'm trying to solve how to wake the colt up.
>>109132Onyx slowly walks over towards the colt, looking at him with what seems to be compassion
"Damned bugs, I don't know why the princesses haven't just given the order to kill them all."
>>109130Eh, just ignore it. It's been a trait of her thus far that virtually any line said to her that can be taken as an insult, is taken as an insult. Let's move on
>>109129>implying wrestling and nailing were not viable options>>109131Um... what
>>109132 said
Spark made a 20 on a heal roll for Onyx and a 19 for Brie
>>109133His eyes are open, and he looks strangely petrified
>>109134This doesn't feel right just leaving her like that. Dammit.>>109121Silver turns to Iron. "...anyways...where have you been? Nopony has seen you all day."
>>109134What?
I am going to take that to heart, mister. Any consequences for it are now your responsibility!
>>109135Iron's ears perk up, looking at the possibly wise Silver.
"I have been... around."
(He does not need to know that yet.)
"What about you?"
>>109134Onyx tries waving the bottle of vodka around under Ruby's snoot, hoping that the smell will snap the colt out of it.
>>109136And yet, Iron will suffer them
>>109137It does not wake him
>>109136"I blew up many undead, fed giant bird, and now have some Bits to my name, to name just few things."
>>109139Forgot to add: Silver manages to say all these with a straight face.
>>109138He tries dripping some in the colt's mouth
"This has worked before..."
>>109140>>109139Iron nods approvingly.
"So you actually went back there and cleared it all out. Color me impressed. Did you hacked and slashed everything with your trusty sword?"
(Succees detected. Confidence rating increasing,)
>>109142"Little bit. I used rifle and SMG to avoid getting mauled to death in most cases, though there was one undead I used my sword on." He grabs the whiskey he ordered from Glass. "You want drink? It is on me."
>>109141Some response. Coughing, almost gagging
>>109143Remembering how Onyx got paralyzed by one of the monster's bite, he can excuse it.
He looks at the glass a little apprehensively, but ultimately nods.
(It would be disrespectful to decline.)
"And you fed a 'giant bird' as you say? What was that all about?"
>>109144Onyx panics a moment before akwardly petting the colt
"Hold in there, you'll be fine. Just wake up, the bugs are gone.."
>>109146Coughing, more coughing. He might be awaking finally
>>109145"I used some bait to draw undead out of catacombs. As it turns out, it attracted more than just that. This giant falcon (I think they are named "Rocs") came for bait, and got into fight with mummy and armored ghast."
>>109148Iron blinks a bit, somewhat confused.
"That was quite lucky of you. The foes you mentioned sound rather tough. The last one sounds like if it were me but undead."
He chuckles a little bit.
>>109147"Come on little guy, you can pull through"
Onyx shakes him a bit, forgetting to be gentle, and boops the snoot.
>>109149"It almost was." Silver smiles, takes a drink, and remembers to order Iron a light beer. "Speaking of, that suit of armor you own, does it come with gauntlets which improve your unarmed strikes?"
>>109150The face scrunches up, and the eyes narrow to attention in clear offense. His mouth opens in a silent "reeeee"
>>109152"Haha! Gotcha!"
He repeats the offense, booping the snoot once again.
>>109151Iron nods.
"It does not improve them at all, in all honestly. It just covers my hoof in metal and not much else. The spiked ones I got at least punctured, but I fail to see their use compared to my raw hooves."
He ponders for a second.
"Albweit I think there is a way to do something to them that the elders once told me that I do not remember."
>>109152Just in case.He glances wearily at the offered drink.
(I hope I do not have to much to drink to.)
>>109154Angry whinnying sounds
>>109155"I do not know what that would be. Hmm...do you think I could get some measurements of your hooves sometime, after I get some measuring tape? I have idea on something that might help you deal just little bit more damage with hooves."
>>109156"Spark! He's awake!"
Onyx gives another boop for good measure, his eyes shining with... Joy? Pleasure? Victory? No matter, he wouldn't tell you.
>>109157Iron can't help but look strangely at Silver for his request.
"I suppose? What is your idea?"
(Sounds like a good way to ask for the important questions.)
>>109158>>109159He stands up in a slow, labored manor, like an old grandfather or an aged dog. He blinks. And he looks around the room
"You're not my brother..."
Then he enters a quiet panic, and in slow motion, rushes for the door. He moves a long one leg at a time, slowly, not trembling, with all of the speed of an arthritic octogenarian grandmother
"Dawson!" His shout barely leaves his mouth, as there is almost no breath in him
"Where are you!"
>>109161Onyx quickly trots infront of the colt and pushes him back inside
"Woah, first of all you aren't going out there. Changeling drains are a nasty thing. Second we don't know where your brother is, but I'll help you find him. But for now,
rest"
>>109160"Have you ever heard of brass horseshoes?"
>>109162And he continues on, walking towards the door at his slow, geriatric pace
>>109163Iron blinks, confused.
"No."
(Is he trying to make my hooves metal?)
>>109164"Spark, help me out"
Onyx groans and picks up the colt by his scruff
>>109164Spark levitates the colt and puts him back in bed.
"Sorry, but this is the makeshift doctor's orders. You need to stay here and help the bat watch your cows while we find the others. You can't be in two places at once you know?"
>>109166Well... I guess I could lift him out of your mouth...
>>109168Yeah, it still works
>>109167>>109166The colt is enveloped in magic, before Onyx picks him up, and drags him away. He still tries to go for the door
"Brother. Dawson. Rose..."
>>109165"They are shoes made out of metal, mostly brass but sometimes steel, that you can slip on your hooves. Unlike gauntlets which just armor your hooves, these are purpose-built as weapons, and can help you hit just tiniest bit harder. Now, it has been
while since I have tried to make weapon, and this would be new for me, but I would like to try my hooves at it, and hopefully make some for you."
>>109171Spark looks into his eyes to get his attention.
"Listen. You must stay here and wait for them. They will be right back. I promise."
Spark gives him a hug.
>>109171"Ruby, we will find them. I promise. But you can't help, and especially not in your condition."
>>109173>>109174He feels cold, and he is shaking. His eyes are a little duller
"I must find them...." he says, still struggling internally
>>109172Oh, I see why you brought that up.Iron's eyes widen.
"Are you telling me you can make metal thingies?"
>>109175"You will find them again if you stay here and wait for them. You don't want to miss them when they come back."
>>109177"Spark, why is he still cold?"
>>109176Silver nods. "I apprenticed as weaponsmith under my father when I was colt. Now, I might be bit rusty, but I think I can still manage. I have been thinking of ways to help members of our group of friends while they are in combat, and this is one of things I came up for you."
>>109178>>109177He looks tired
"They are the only ponies I have... And they are lost"
>>109178"Because the warmth of love was drained away. And by two grown soldiers no less to a colt."
>>109180"You have us. Remember how we didn't run away in the woods? Remember how helped you save your cow? We are here for you too."
>>109181He nods, tears on his tired eyes
"uh huh"
>>109181"Yeah..."
>>109180Onyx suddenly goes soft and scoops the colt up in his arms and cradles him
"Listen, I've lost ponies I loved to the bugs too. I know how you feel, and I'll find them for you."
His voice suddenly lowers to a whisper
"For the ones I couldn't find..."
He then shakes his head as his voice returns to normal
"But you have to stay here for me"
>>109179Iron glances to the sides.
(Should I really accept this? It would be rude to disregrd his attempt to help and I do want his advice later... but I feel like his gift will be of no use to me.)
After a few seconds, he nods.
"I appreciate your help, Silver. Simply tell me when you want to measure my hooves and I will be there."
>>109181>>109183He blinks slowly
"Will you find them?"
>>109185"I promise you, those bugs won't stop me from finding them"
>>109185"Yes. We didn't run from that owl... bear... thing. And we aren't going to run from a few changelings. We will get them back super quick."
>>109184Silver nods at him and smiles, as he looks pleased that he can so something to help. "Thank you. I will let you know as soon as I am able." He takes another drink of his whiskey. "Oh, and Dark Star has mission for us, if you wish to help."
>>109172I appreciate the optimism in regards to campaign pacing but.... let’s be real here
>>109186>>109187He looks at them with big, sad, tired but strangely determined eyes
“Then go find them before they are gone forever”
>>109190That's why I asked if you had any special rules in place for crafting, to hasten the process.Hint Hint
>>109188Iron raises an eyebrow.
(Some time to discuss things stallion on stallion if I do this right.)
"What is it about?"
>>109190Spark attaches a sticky note to the bat's forehead to remind him to watch the colt.
>>109186Spark nods to the bartender.
"Let's go."
>>109193Onyx gently sets the colt down
"Rest and we'll be back before you know it."
He then grabs his halberd and moves to the door
"Ready"
>>109193inb4 he takes the colt elsewhere like he did with the changies.
>>109195Most likely, but as long as he doesn't get on another train with them without our knowledge of the events like he did with Silver, then we are ok.
>>109194>>109193Not much activity outside. A light wind, the full moon shines down from a clear sky. The ground is covered in snow. A dog hangs around the remains of the changelings. No sound besides the ever present insects. The barn is in front, and who knows what other structures there are
>>109192"There is some sort of organization down in Red Heart part of city by docks that is trafficking ponies, griffons, and others illegally from Baltimare to Manehattan. Many of these being trafficked are being put into slavery if they can not pay their handlers. Dark Star has been tasked to put end to it, and he is asking others in our group if they can help. So far, all we can find is me, and you. Others are missing."
>>109196>inb4 the madlad actually does it.>>109198Iron ponders for a bit.
"What exactly is the mission? Are we going to storm a building and nab their leader if possible?"
(Sounds like a place where money goes. I think I should avoid asking for payment this time.)
>>109197>>109194"Look around, there is most likely signs of a struggle, though not much of one because the changelings got the drop on them. Maybe there is some blood somewhere, besides what we left there of course..."
>>109199Wouldn't put it past him.
>>109199"Plan is to infiltrate and remove those in charge of operation, as far as I know. We should try to avoid confrontation until then, to avoid them scattering." Silver whispers to Iron. "Dark Star got his coat dyed to look like zebra so he could trot around Red Heart without being recognized."
>>109201Iron nods but raises an eyebrow yet again.
"I thought he hated zebras for what one of them did to him."
>>109202He shrugs. "There are apparently wealth of zebras in Red Heart, along with griffons, and Severyanan ponies like me."
>>109200"Alright, I'll keep an eye out"
Onyx spreads out and looks for clues
>>109204>>109200Tracks in the snow, going back around the Barn, both ways
>>109203Iron can't help but sweat a little.
(I hope I do not have to do anything to them. Elsewise, it would only deteriorate my standing with Cauldron and/or her family.)
But he seems intrigued himself.
"I admit I was not expecting that. I heard the amount of zebras here were low according to the people I talked to."
Yes, it was Cauldron who said it.
>>109205Spark follow the only clue so far.
>>109204"Perhaps we should check out behind the barn?"
Okay, I need to sleep now
>>109206"It might be they have mostly congregated in one area. Carved their own little neighborhood out in Red Heart, with most preferring to live with their own kind than to mingle with others."
>>109208Sleep well!
>>109210Iron ponders a bit, attempting to inch himself closer to what he wants to talk about in the future. He leans back a bit, trying to casualize this conversation.
"Have you ever interacted with a zebra, Silver?"
>>109211Silver gives him an odd look. "That I have. May I ask why?"
>>109212Iron nods, grinning.
"What is your general opinion of them?"
>>109213"I have not had any negative interactions with them that I have not had worse with ponies or griffons, but that is just me. They are alright people, with some similarities to us ponies, though there is still little bit of Zebrica in them no matter how removed one of them might be from continent. They like to stick to their traditions."
>>109214He nods some more, internally gratified.
"Perfect. I say this because I have helping advice for you, too."
He inhales a bit, knowing he's inching evercloser to the truth next to a possible liability.
"There is this one zebra named Black Cauldron that creates some wonderful potions."
He fishes one of his Cure Light Wounds potions and hoofs it to Silver.
"They are exceptionally good, possibly even better than normal ones."
>>109215Silver looks at it before giving it back to Iron, nodding. "I remember you telling me that she is where you bought your potions from. You still have to introduce me to her one of these days. I am always in market for better potions."
>>109216Iron grins at Silver, then gives the potion back to him again.
"Consider it a trial run to solidify the excellence of the product. No need to give it back to me."
Then he turns into a sort of meditative state, considering his options.
"I will gladly tell you where to find her later," he says as he gives a quick glance behind him at Skies before turning his look back at Silver.
"However, I have something on my mind that is bothering me."
>>109216Potion seller! I require your strongest potions!
>>109217He is almost like salespony, giving pitch.He gets in close so Iron can lower his voice, since he seems so worried about eavesdroppers. "What is matter?"
>>109219Iron comes closer, whispering.
"Say you and a mare you like very much happened to share a confession and an 'intimate' moment between eachother, but after the fact, you cannot be sure if she remembers it at all. What do you do?"
>>109218Kek. Nice reference.>>109220Silver grins knowingly at Iron "This would not happen to involve plenty of alcohol, lowered inhibitions, and confessions of love to each other, would it?"
>>109221Iron glances to the side.
"Kind of like that, yes."
>>109222He nods to him slowly with that grin still on his face. It doesn't carry the kind of malevolent feeling that one of Blue Skies' trademark grins does, rather it's just one where he (thinks) he knows what Iron is talking about. "If I am not making wild assumptions, I imagine this Black Cauldron is mare you are talking about. You say you like her very much. Does she know that you do? Does she feel same way towards you?"
>>109223Iron's eyes widen, looking to the sides in a panic.
(Keep calm, Iron. Let him have his conclusions.)
He exhales a bit, returning his gaze to him
"I have no idea of either, honestly. She is letting me stay at her house after treating me of a tiger fight aftermath and does generally accept physical contact with me, but I do not know. Perhaps she is like that with anypony."
>>109224"Well, then advice I would offer you is to let her know. It does not have to be through any grand or austere gesture, just be honest, and sincere, and do so in comfortable environment, perhaps in park or while at her domicile. Something like...'Black Cauldron, our time together has been among happiest in my life. Being together has given me great joy over these days, and simply being in your presence has lifted my heart to new soaring heights. I just wanted you to know that...I think I am in love with you. I
am love with you.'
"You get basic idea. I would mention things you like about her in middle of that, things she is good at that you adore, elaborate on how she makes you feel, maybe some compliments on her appearance so long as they are not only what you have to say. But most important thing is that it has to be sincere, that it comes from your heart." He places a hoof over Iron's heart to make the point. "That is first step: letting her know about how you feel."
>>109225Iron can't help but squint his eyes over what Silver is saying.
"No way it is that easy. There must be something else you are hiding from me, right? Make some sort of big positive impact on her life? Help her out in a crucial manner?"
He puts both hooves next to his head, pointing upwards.
"A word salad cannot possibly be the solution here."
>>109226"Word salad..." Silver works that term a couple times in his head before continuing. "It is rarely gestures themselves that carry meaning in relationship, but meaning behind them, why they were carried out in first place." He gives him a sincere smile. "If she loves you, it will not be because you performed some grand act of goodwill or some massive gesture to make monument to your love for her. She will love you because she cares for you, respects you, just as you care and respect her back.
You will be her monument. Now, I will not try to dissuade you from trying to perform some gesture like this, but know that it is not necessary if she truly loves you. If I were more like Blue Skies, I imagine I would say: 'any mare which can stand to be around you for extended period of time is special mare indeed'." He smiles and chuckles, hoping that the last bit comes across as an attempt at levity.
>>109227Iron can't believe what Silver's saying.
(Does he mean I could have completely avoided acting like a colt in front of Cauldron merely by saying things to her that sounds affectionate?)
He looks conflicted, looking down at Silver's chair.
(No. That possibly cannot be it. No way it works like that!)
But remembering the little time he has left to reveal the hidden thoughts he promised to tell Cauldron gnaws at him.
(...It will have to do.)
He exhales a bit, looking at the fluffy pony with reluctant eyes, completely ignoring the joke in the turmoil.
"I thank you for your... assistance, Silver."
(Hopefully, you are correct.)
>>109228Silver nods, though his lack of reaction (or potential negative reaction) to the joke sits uneasy with him. "Just be sincere. Barring one's heart for another is surprising lot to do. It can leave you feeling exposed, letting whoever you are barring it to see into who you are, how you feel for them. Show her same respect you would wish to see from her."
>>109229Iron nods weakly himself, not really motivated or driven with courage or determination.
(Here I thought it was going to be good advice, but I guess I could try it nonetheless. At least he knows what is currently stopping me.)
"If it works, it works."
He softly lands his head on the table, looking sideways blankly, sometimes craning his head to drink from the light beer he has nearby like a dog would.
Not your fault, Silver. He doesn't believe in himself.
>>109230Silver looks at the stallion in front of him. "...You worry about what will happen if it is not enough. Am I right?"
>>109231His eyes slowly move to look at Silver.
"...yes."
>>109232Silver understands this worry. "Tell me about her, this Black Cauldron."
>>109233Iron looks at him some more, unsure of how much he should say.
"She is a zebra mare, as I have said."
He still glances behind him to ensure Skies isn't listening.
"Lives by herself, helps her family business while having a side-job she does not like. An amazing cook."
He can't help but start to smile a little bit.
"Her food is delicious, but her kindness, generosity and charm are her best features. She allowed me to stay at her house, cooked warm food for me, patched me up and even had a little dance."
His eyes looks upwards, akin to a daydream.
"She is simply the best. Everything you would want in a mare. Somepony whom you can trust and rely on while having unique interests that compliments mine. Somepony whom I can share a day or night to simply helping her out with her hobby. No tricks and games of jealousy-baiting or absolute dependency."
He sighs in contentment, his blush starting to form slightly.
"A mare whom you can share anything and everything if I so desire without repercussions, from bed to bench. An optimal mare to start a perfect family."
>>109234Silver smiles at him. "And you worry it will not be enough. I will tell you now, if she can not accept you for that, for how you care about her, then you are too good for her. Simple as that."
>>109235Iron's daydream is snapped back to reality, looking at Silver with his blush everpresent and questioning gaze.
"Do you really think so? I have done nothing for her and she has done everything for me..."
The words only serve to put him down slightly.
>>109236"Then is sounds to me that she does care for you. All she needs is to hear that you feel same way." Silver puts a forehoof on Iron's shoulders, if her can. "I would probably leave out family part, though, just for little while so you can develop your relationship with Cauldron. Mares do not like being pressed for children very early in relationship, for obvious reasons."
>>109238>>109237Iron does not bat off the offending hoof on his shoulder, a bit cheered up from Silver's lecture.
(Sometimes, all you need is somepony to confirm your thoughts.)
He warmly smiles at him.
"Thank you, Silver."
Feeling invigorated, he lifts off his head from the counter.
"Do you know when Dark Star is going to start his mission?"
>>109239"Tomorrow, perhaps. I hope it will not be too early. I promised to help volunteer for cathedral. They are going to start bringing bodies out from catacombs and quarry, and give them proper burials and rites."
>>109240It seems Silver's unsureness doesn't sit well with Iron.
"Perhaps Dark Star will tell us now that half of the ponies he is looking for are here."
With that, I'll depart. Hope you had fun, fuzzy feelings!
>>109241"It would be nice to know, myself."
Sleep well, fren. I'll see you tomorrow!
Alright, now that Iron’s “The Stone Dog/Botanical excursion along Snake River” quest-line is done, I kind of feel like releasing a commentary. Maybe the same with the “Silver Lake Development Project, Referral from the City Zoning Office” now that it’s done as well
Hmm, Looks like Iron isn’t trying to sink the Iron-Cauldron ship like it’s the Lusitania
Also.... probably time for a level up
>>109243Will there be complimentary tea and scones?
>>109243Cool. I want to see how it came along/sudden turns you weren't expecting.
I don't blame you after that circus show Iron performed. Iron thinks he's not good enough to be with her
>>109243I think the commentary would be nice to have, even with as scathing as I imagine it would.
Silver's doing his best to avoid it sinking.Yay! Just let us know when.
>>109246Come on, Silver. You know I wasn't actually trying to sink it. There are way faster ways of doing it which wouldn't make him act like a colt who needs to hide his boner the moment the teacher forces him to walk to the front to present himself.
>>109247Just because you weren't doesn't mean it wasn't going to. Iron's still going to have to apologize to her for how he decided to GTFO without a word of goodbye.
>>109248Let's be honest here. If she can deal with him: Having two boop battles, a night jog for only his sake, cook many foods for him without expectations of pay and overall dealing with his childish tendencies, I am pretty sure she'll let it slide, more worried about how fake he was being than offended he skedaddle with the flimsiest excuse imaginable.
>>109249I dunno. I think it would still probably be a good idea to apologize.
>>109250It's a given, of course, but I want to emphasize that while the ship indeed is shaking due to Iron frantically spinning the wheel from side to side, trying both not to crash into two adjacent walls of rock and an imaginary obstacle which always aligns itself to the front, the probability of actually sinking is low.
I wonder when Darko Starro, the half-zebra half Pegasus, is doing.
Wait, are his wings visible through the dye?
>>109254But Starry boi is an erf pone.
>>109255Oh right. I mixed up with Skies for a second there.
I wonder if the zebras actually see Star as a zony instead of a zebra.
>>109256Maybe. He tried to have his mane cut into a mohawk, but it doesn't want to stay pointed up. Other than that, he blends in pretty well as a zeeb.Also, really hoping I can convince the GM to change the crafting rules. I really would like to make some stuff for the party without taking literal years of waiting in real life.
>>109257You can make checks by the day as well as creating things a lot quicker by adding a +10 DC to your craft roll, albeit with the risk of wasting half of your materials.
>>109258It would still take a ridiculous amount of time to make even a simple weapon with the exceptionally slow pacing of the game. I'm not asking for it to be made easier, or for the ability for Silver to instantaneously make +12 Super Flamey Death Swords, I'm just asking for it to be made more practical, balanced, and fun. I figured that was the whole point of this game: that it's fun.
>>109259I do remember Ash crafting some wooden shields in an instant, so perhaps you don't have to worry about it.
>>109260Like I said, I'll ask the GM if we can figure that out. I really do want to help out the party, and this is one of the ways I've come up with to do so; the only massive roadblock is that the pacing of this campaign doesn't work well with the crafting rules. Just as one example of how Silver could help the party, he could make replacement throwing knives for Brie, since he seems so apt at losing them. And Iron already knows about what Silver would like to do for him.
>>109262I understand, Silver.
Perhaps there is no need to worry about time constraints, like Ash's example showed.
Of course, we need his opinion which I think will be put on hold until we level up, mayble allowing us to respec our characters into fitter version than the current ones.
>>109265I imagine the level-up will come either in their sleep or as they wake up. But yeah, I would love to hear what he thinks.
>>109265So, while we wait for the GM, want to discuss how we're going to level-up/re-spec our characters? Maybe get some input from each other?
>>109270My answer is very simple: Change from Fighter 5 to Barbarian 4/Fighter 1, and in next level Barbarian 5, while also picking some feat I'm undecided upon. Perhaps Improved Sunder to flex, but I dunno if my punches will be that strong.
This way, I still have all the capabilities of my current character, but have a nice set of class features to circumvent some weakness of his, like being unable to be sneak attacked, only after level 5 tho.
Skies around the world do not want you to know this!And being able to use AC bonus even when flatfooted or attacked by invisible poners/creatures. The extra neat thing of increasing reflex save by 1 against traps is also nice, too.
Sadly, I'll have to rearmor myself to get the Fast Movement skill into medium armor at least, but that's for future me to decide.
What is your plan?
>>109274I'm not sure what all I actually
can do since I'm still new to the game, so it may be I'll have to change something if it turns out I'm trying to do something I can't.
Gonna stick to Fighter for the moment. I'll change his feats a little so he has Power Attack, Greatsword Focus, Greatsword Specialization, Heal Focus, Improved Initiative, Toughness, and Dodge. His Cutie Mark Skill will be Weaponsmithing, and his other skills will be Heal 3, Jump 2, Swim 2, and Climb 2.
In case none of that made sense: I want Silver to be more like the party tank and take hits so the other (mostly flimsier) members of the party don't have to. I'd also like him to be able to heal downed or injured party members, since the only other character in our group with any healing aptitude is Nurse Spark.
>>109065"Thanks Mr.Glass."
looks for blue.
>>109276>other skills will be heal 3Wait a minute, what was your wis stat again?
Perhaps, with some clever character development, you can most likely make your heal skill not a cross class one (instead of 1 skill point being worth 0,5 ranks, it is a 1 to 1 conversion)) by maybe starting your path as a Cleric. Not only you'll possibly have Celestia or Luna or whoever deity you choose as a constant waifu 4 lyfe, you can actually start to be a tanky medic worth your mettle.
>>109277She is right next to him, holding onto his fore
leg
>>109278He's got a full 16 Wisdom, so there's that.
>>109279Nice. For a second I thought she may have heard the stallion talk.
>>109280Then I'd say if you want to start you path as a full blown tank medic, start investing in cleric levels, since it's Wis based.
Your current set-up should be fine if you want to rack up those feat amounts, though.
>>109282Eh, might be I'll take Cleric next level-up.
>>109279Hello, GM.
>>109279Dark Star looks for an empty table
>>109284He can move to an empty table. There's one in the back which he may or may not have used for lewd purposes a few nights before
>>109283Here's the link for both the class and its spells respectively.
Don't worry, if you have some free time and basic reading comprehension, you'll be A-OK.
Quick rundown: Clerics are magic dudes who can do many spells while also having weapons training. They can be divided in domains, which represents vague concepts which you'll have to link with the deity you choose.
If Celestia, healing and sun should be fine.https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Clerichttps://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Cleric_Spell_ListHave the domains list too, if you want to snoop around.
https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Cleric_Domains>>109285Has the time come for Iron to walk up into the noose, hoping Cauldron doesn't pull the floor from underneath him?
>>109286Sorry, you
have to choose two domains. Keep that in mind.
Sorry GMo for doing an oopsie, pls forgive me.
>>109285He Smiles and walks to the one in back
"This is my favorite table here."
>>109288Oh dear... Also, Silver and Iron are there. Say something nice
>>109287Might as well continue the in-character conversation.Silver finishes his whiskey and asks Glass for another. "So, you say you fought tiger?"
>>109291>tfw left out of stallion gang
>>109292F. You'll be back in your proper place, soon enough.>>109291Silver looks over at the zebra calling to him from another table, and gives him a small salute.
>>109293why thank you, I have to add it's nice to see the flag again too Also, did someone say
level up?
>>109294>>109292F
Also, are Onyx and Spark ready to continue their own little mission?
>>109294I haven't seen the Yellow and Black for a few threads, now. It looks good on you.Also, yey. I think the GM is going to have us make our changes after our characters fall asleep. When we wake up, we'll no longer be Level 5 Virgins, but Level 6 Chads.
>>109293The Zebra Salutes Back, he can see Blue With him.
>>109292F
>>109295Ready when you are captain
>>109290Iron tilt his head, uncomfortable about it.
"More like he almost mauled me to death. That was the reason Cauldron let me stay at first.
>>109297>>109294As stated before, there seem to be some hoofprints in the snow on either side of the
>>109207>>109301"Sounds good, I'm right behind you"
>>109298That "zebra" is very lucky stallion. Go get her, tiger.>>109300"Seems like everypony in our little group has issues with that. Dark Star himself says he almost died, too." Silver pats Iron's shoulder. "It is good to see you are alive and well."
>>109301Can I ask a question: when we level up, do our Cutie Mark skills automatically improve to remain at max level?
>>109301Spark follows the clue.
I'm'a write up some commentary
Originally when I started it I figured that, okay, I didn't want to send Iron out away from the group because he's only one character, so I would do kind of a test run of what a run through the jungle would look like. I've never really written fiction before, or attempted to write it, so this would be a first for linear story telling for me. I don't even read much fiction. I think I've read some books in college, two Hemmingway Novels, both Ayn Rand novels, and every single one of Lovecraft's works, and that's about it as fiction goes for me in the past five years (I've read far more in philosophy and history though).
At first, there was no story, and it was just bandits attacking. I decided to experiment with the power of sub-machine guns in combat. Then, when Iron searched the bandits for anything of note, I figured, 'eh, what the hell. Let's put in an artifact in the Bandit's travel bag." So there was a stone dog that I didn't think much of. Iron asked what the dog was, and if he recognized it. So I figured that because the setting is the same as in Daring Do, the native artifacts would be Aztec themed. I looked up Aztec dog gods, and lo and behold, it's an evil god of lightning, divine retribution, and ferrying to the afterlife. One of 4 particularly evil gods. So it was easy to make a plot about how there would be 4 idols, one connected to each of the evil gods.
This quest, and really, the campaign as a whole, was inspired in substantial part by the Uncharted series of action adventure games. Uncharted is itself inspired by Indiana Jones, (which also inspired Daring Do), and has a definite formula to it. Protagonist goes looking for treasure, and so does a villain. The treasure seems to be not actually a mundane treasure, but a source of supernatural power. Eventually, it is revealed that the treasure is a source of power with entirely mundane explanations, and the villain was aware of its true nature the entire time. Protagonist must both defeat the villain, and destroy the mcguffin that lead them on the adventure. I figured this one would be similar. There would be a story about a treasure that would explain why the bandits were after it, but Pear would be an embedded secret villian, who would later unleash supernatural powers (more like Indiana Jones than Uncharted in this regard). I added in the encounters with the bandits at the camp and at the ruins to give the story a bit more flesh in the beginning and middle.
Pear Faucet is named after British explorer Percy Fawcett, who sought after the Lost City of Z and went missing in the process. She was a very fun character to work with, because I felt like I knew who she was, and what she wanted. I had to make sure that when she ended up releasing the demons at the end, it seemed like something her character could actually be motivated to do, so I took every opportunity I had to show how she was disgusted by much of the modern world around her.
One of the neat features of this quest was the Cocoliztli. Every single aspect of that that plague that I put in this game is real and historical. I did not exaggerate anything. Yes, there really was a plague that killed 80% of the population of Mexico (about a decade after Smallpox killed 20-30% of the population). It did kill by means of extensive bleeding from every bodily orifice - eyes, vagina, anus, mouth... It did take around or a bit more than three days, it really is mysterious as to what disease it is, it was thought to be typhoid-esque, it did affect highlands more than coastal areas, and it is believed to have been waterborne, spread from livestock to humans because the Spanish forced the natives into collective farms. The Cocoliztli - the Nahuatl word for "plague," was so mysterious that it was not not identified with a particular disease until 2018. 2018, when they finally did genetic analysis to match it with Salmonella Enterica, a bacteria that is relate to the bacteria that causes Typhoid, except it infects the digestive tract rather than the blood stream. Even now, it's possible that unidentified hemorrhagic viruses were involved. In the questline, there is debate back and forth as to what caused the disease, and it is implied that the disease was caused by a supernatural entity the natives treated as a god.
My proudest moment was definitely the story in the background for the fall of the Tenochtitlan state. It was of course modeled on the end of the Aztec Empire, and I feel like I was able to show a picture of a complex society in both the Independent Tenochtitlan State, and in Equestria. The show gives us very little information about what happened in that thousand years between the banishment of Nightmare Moon and the present, so I figured I could start to fill in the gaps, and show an Equestria that is not really a single nation so much as a conglomerate of other tribes that have their own agendas, show Celestia as being called in to mediate, and to show Equestria as a semi-imperial power bent on forcing all other pony nations to adopt their version of Friendship and Harmony. So it was neat to have other pony cultures involved.
It's worth mentioning that in the actual conquest of Mexico, the Spanish first lead a set of revolting natives against aztec rule, then took over Tenochtitlan, pretended that Montezuma was their vassal, then used that as the excuse to "put down rebels" against Spanish rule. In my ponified account, both sides are more sympathetic, as the native state is more popular with its subjects than the murderous Aztec, and the pledge of vassalage to Celestia is sincere.
The show does have some hints about something going on with the Aztec ponies. In "stranger than fanfiction," we see paintings of ponies fighting griffins, an alicorn that resembles Nightmare Moon, and passing references to a "Quetzalcoatl Empire"
>>109303>>109301>>109300Zigger Star and Blue walk over to the table they are sitting at.
>>109302>>109304There are a couple sheep wondering freely about, and another series of hoof prints in and around the Changeling bodies, but there is a "drag" of leveled snow around the barn that goes from the barn door to a wooden shed, further back. It looks like there is a small fire burning near it
I might need to delete the commentary and repost it later
>>109303The patting is noted by Iron.
"Seems we all have that in common, right Silver?"
>>109306Iron's eyes widen.
(Silver was not joking when he said he dressed himself up as a zebra.)
"Are you well?"
>>109305So far so good. Mostly positive stuff.
Seems you had fun from just this paragraph/part.
>>109307Onyx quickly bolts towards the fire, hoping he isn't going to find a pyre
>>109310A sheep moves out of the way of the bolting Onyx to keep from getting run over. It's a bit cold outside, though not really that cold. 20 degrees Fahrenheit, plus a minor breeze that makes it cooler. Insects chirp on.
It's a small fire of a few sticks underneath. There is a pile of snow nearby. a set of sticks is arranged such that a pot, which has some snow on the edges, can be perched over the fire. There is water in it, and the water is not boiling.
>>109306I wonder if they are going to do what they did last time they sat at that table. Silver takes a drink from his next glass of whiskey.
I suppose it is none of my business. I hope those two have fun, whatever they do.>>109309"Indeed." Silver taps the bandages that wrap all the way around his neck, flanked by exceedingly floofy floof above and below. Neither of these were there, last time Iron met him.
>>109308Why's that? I can't see an issue with it so far.
>>109309"Yea I'm Doing Fine.just got back from getting my coat dyed.How's it going with you?"
>>109311>>109310"Hopefully that means they left before it could get hot and not that it has cooled off from the time we found it."
Spark inspects the snow shoved out of the way due to dragging.
>>109312Iron can't help but let out a little chuckle.
"I was not expecting to be
that accurate."
>>109313Iron simply expresses discomfort through his face.
"A tiger clawed and bit me."
(And I freaked out on Cauldron enough to run away, but he does not need to know that.)
>>109311>>109314"Let us hope"
Onyx joins Spark's investigation
>>109314>>109316It leads right up to the shed...
>>109315Silver shares the chuckle with a smile of his own. "It is obvious you do not know us all that well."
>>109317>>109316"Well Onyx, do you suppose they left them in here alive and unguarded?"
Spark readies his pistol and prepares to open the door.
>>109315"Buck,That's terrible. I Got Shot a couple times this morning by a Changling Spy.
Is it a deep wound? Have you got it looked at yet?"
>>109319"Let's hope. Shall we take it slow or just burst in?"
Onyx grabs his halberd in his maw and nods to Spark
>>109319>>109321The aged it’s that big. It’s a grayish color with clear wooden slats, and a simple wooden double door that seems to have been moved, judging by movement in the snow. A sheep darts past and out of the way, but there are no other sounds around besides crickets
>>109321"Bust in, but don't fire until you see their bug eyes. We don't want to shoot the wrong ones. That is, if they are even here."
Spark tries the door and attempts to throw it open.
>>109318Iron shrugs.
"I cannot say I try too hard to know."
>>109320Iron nods approvingly
"Surprised you could withstand many metal bits on you."
He looks at its treated body, not knowing its current state.
"I feel fine. I can still run and punch. That is what matters."
He decides to press on the mission details, looking quite serious.
"I heard you were looking for ponies for yet another mission of your marefriend's faction. Do you have a time and date to execute the plan yet?"
>>109324"I suppose that is your prerogative. So, it was
just tiger that almost killed you?"
>>109325He glances at his direction, nodding.
"There were some 'muggers' that tried to take something from me. They were easy pickings, all things considered."
>>109326Silver's eyes widened. "Huh. In that case, I am especially glad that you are alive and well."
>>109327Iron tilts his head yet again, somewhat uneasy.
"Thank you?"
>>109323>>109321The door is unlocked.... What they see when they open the door is at once both astonishing and expected
In black gossamer, melded to the rear wooden wall of the shed is a large... cocoon like entity. Black on the edges, with thin transparent green tinted front that shapes itself around a pony - grey and brown maned. The pony stands straight up with hooves to his side, with eyes wide open. They are glossed over white, and the pony is suspended in a transparent liquid. It looks like looking at a pony in an open coffin, standing up, if that coffin were of biological matter. That is not the only black gossamer cocoon - a consistency on it about like a spaider web. Immediately next to it is a thinner one, which conforms the shape of a light pink mare with blonde mane. She is
upside down. Her eyes, likewise, are wide open, almost looking like those of a dead fish with something covering them. She, too, is suspended in some sort of liquid.
The ground of the shed is hard dirt with a covering of gravel, no snow. And lying on this snow, towards the front, is another pony. It's the red wine colored pony - the one they met earlier. He, and he alone has closed eyes, although his mouth is open, and his tongue is hanging out,. His head and shoulders are free, and there is an attempt to keep his hooves together in the casket-like stance of the other two. His lower body is already covered in the black and white gossamer, like a giant fly trapped in a much bigger spider web, in the process of being wrapped up to become a meal, his life fluids slowly drained
>>109329Onyx, although expecting it, freezes at the sight for a moment before quickly trying to use his halberd to cut them out.
>>109330Careful not to cut them or freeze them with the cold effect....
[1d20 = 2]>>109331Is that indication I should roll?
Rolling incase it is
>>109332He cuts into the leg of the grey pony while trying to cut him out
[1d20 = 15]>>109333Checked....
Onyx's eye goes wide before he lets out a string of every cuss word he knows before attempting another.
>>109324>>109327"Tomorrow morning. i plan to scope the place out tonight. speaking of which have either of you seen Brie,Spark or oynx?"
[1d20 = 20]>>109336Onyx moves to the next cocoon, cutting slower this time
>>109338Perfection. He's even able to cut out the third pony
>>109337Silver shakes his head. "Brie I know is missing. Spark and Onyx might be with him, as well."
>>109337Iron simply shakes his head, denying any witnessing of the kind.
>>109339"Spark, you patched me up well enough. Will they be okay?"
>>109340>>109341"Horse Apples! this is Going to be Significantly more difficult without them,
He Sighs
"Maybe they'll turn up before then."
He Takes a sip of his whiskey.
>>109342"I was lucky ok? I don't even know what that iodine stuff does. I have no clue, but we need to treat that leg of his and get them back inside."
>>109343Silver takes a drink from his own whiskey. "Just remember, get behind me if bullets start flying. With luck, it will not come to that, though."
>>109344"Alright"
Onyx hauls two of them onto his back, and heads back towards the cabin.
>>109343Iron shrugs.
"How hard can it be?"
>>109344>>109342>>109334A bit of light from behind Onyx, and the ponies fall on the floor of the shed. They still look out of it, covered in slime. At least the pony who is cut is actually bleeding, implying a heart beat
>>109345"We'll come out unscathed."
>>109347"A lot of Creature traffickers with Rifles,hard. Has Silver told you anything about where we are going?"
>>109346>>109348Spark takes the red wine colored pony inside.
>>109350>>109346Alright... I guess they try to pull the ponies up, place them on their backs, and trudge on to the cabin as the sheep move around the sit, and the fire burns lowly on
>>109351Do we make it to the house ok?
>>109346Alright. Roll a fortitude save
>>109349"In broad strokes."
Iron leans in closer.
"I will be fine. Nothing some good old resting cannot cure later."
[1d20+5 = 10]>>109354........
>>109356>>109352The two ponies carry the stiff ponies further, towards the barn and towards the house, as the sheep near them. Then, a veil of green light comes over one of the sheep, and onyx can feel something tugging at him.
Have you ever had that feeling in a dream, or as you lie down on your bed, that you are falling down to the ground, even as your body remains in place? Onyx feels that way, tugged to the side while his body remains in place, as if by a hand that has been dipped in icy water.
Onyx falls to the ground
Spark's turn
>>109357Spark readies his pistol. Shall we roll for turns?
>>109358Spark can attack next
And might want something more powerful than a pistol
[1d20+3 = 18]>>109359I have may questions about the world where a pistol is weaker than a dagger with Spark's strength deficiency... but ok. Spark has had it with these changelings and decides that if any more are lurking around, they need to associate this ponies with pain.
Spark uses his last fire spell.
>>109355"Or else I can patch you up. I have some experience with healing and first-aid."
[4d6 = 12]>>109360It's fucking lit on fire, casting the snow in an orange light, as flames shoot up from teh changeling - tattered grey uniform and all
>>109356>>109362If onyx makes a con save, he can go as well
>>109361His head rises, both forelegs pointing at Silver.
"See? Nothing to worry about."
[1d20 = 18]>>109363Con or fort?
Con is +1 fort is +5
>>109365Doesn't matter either way it seems.
>>109365Con. Looks like Onyx can recover with a move action
>>109367Onyx gets up and makes sure the two he was carrying are okay, as he picks up his weapon.
[1d20+4 = 5]>>109358The other sheep, with a glow of green from an invisible horn, pulls a rifle out from under the snow, levels it at Spark, and shoots
>>109369>>109360>>109368Snow in the rifle seems to cause it to fail to discharge. The first Changeling falls to the ground to put out the fire
Onyx’s turn
>>109371>no backfiringAwwww,....
[1d20+11 = 29]>>109371Onyx rushes the changeling with the jammed rifle, raising his halberd up to swing.
>>109372>>109373They backfired the moment they ever faced Onyx.
>>109373Oh. Oh.....
Hit
The first Changeling backs up a couple feet, throws his hooves into the air, and starts speaking
[1d6 = 1][1d10+6 = 9]Is this a reverse Welshman since the sheep are fucking us?
>>109374>>109375You guys make me blush
>>109376Damage
>>109376"Ponish applebucker, do you speak it?"
Spark threatens the first one with pistol ready.
>>109377D-don't flatter yourself, b-baka!
I'd totally beat your flank!
THE CHANGELING'S RESISTING. USE MILITARY BRUTALITY WITH YOUR HOOVES!
>>109377>>109378Second one is not out
The first one starts to Ramble
"Bitte, wir wollen Ihnen keinen Schaden zufügen. Wir sind Deserteure der neunzigsten Infanterie. Wir sind aus dem Bienenstock in Phantine. Wir wurden in Chrysalis 'Armee eingezogen, als sie unseren Bienenstock annektierte und in den Dienst zwang. Unsere Brigade wurde zerstreut, als die Crystal Empire-Theke außerhalb des Berges angriff. Wir sind seit Monaten im Wald unterwegs. Wir waren hungrig und kalt. Wir haben seit vielen Monaten nicht mehr gegessen...."
>>109380>die Crystal Empire-Onyx silently reeees
>>109380Damn it. They are the good guys. We just killed two of their own most likely. But Spark doesn't know that.
"I can't understand you. Throwing your gun down is a good first start. Now tell your friend to do that too."
Spark points to the other changeling.
>>109381"Hey Onyx! I think this one is surrendering. See if the other one isn't so inclined."
>>109383Fuck
"How? I can't speak a word of changeling"
>>109384Remember you can attacl non-lethally with a -4 penalty if they resist.
[1d20+4 = 9]>>109384The second one cycles the bolt, and shoots at Onyx
>>109386>>109384He can hear the bullet wiz past
[1d20+20 = 39]>>109385You just made me think of something even better I can do>>109386"Son of a bitch"
Onyx swings again, but aims for the rifle rather than the changeling holding it.
Sunder attempt. Improved sunder means no AoO. +12 attack bonus, +4 improved sunder, +4 for two handed weapon.
>>109384"Knock the gun out of his grip. I don't know!"
>>109387I grab the changeling in front of me and shake him.
"Get him..."
I point at the changeling shooting.
"to STOP."
>>109388>>109389.... I think it worked
The rifle shatters in half. The wounded Changeling places it’s hooves over its chest, and falls back
>>109388Nice work. I completely forgot you had that.
>>109391I did too>>109390Nice
"Spark! I got it!"
>>109390By wounded one, do you mean the first on near Spark or Onyx' one?
>>109390>>109392>>109389At this point, the monthy trio should make an entire regiment of changeling deserters to overthrow a city and claim it as their own.Hopefully there's a changeling worker in there.
What does burning cockroach smell like? Onyx and Spark know. The two changelings are both wounded and neither has any visible weapons.
Onyx’s ability to see in color has just blinked out
>>109393The second one, which had the rifle
>>109395Onyx rapidly blinks for a moment
"Oh buck this, my good eye is going to Tartarus as well?"
>>109395"Come on. And don't try anything funny."
He hauls the changeling behind him along with the pony on his back towards the cabin.
>>109397"Bring him along Onyx and hurry up or we will freeze out here. We need to tend to these ponies already."
>>109397No, Onyx can see, just not in color. He also has this strange feeling like what little joy he had has been sucked right out. Probably needs more vodka
Anyways, there are two changelings still there in front of him
>>109398>haulsNot so easy. They are not tied up or anything, and are still up and able
>>109398"Alright"
Onyx grumbles as he hauls the two ponies onto his back, and roughly guides the changeling back to the cabin.
Oh God. Do we have more tag along NPCs now?
>>109401There can never be enough tagalong NPCs.
>>109399The one that surrendered should come along well enough, especially to get out of the snow for a while.
But whether or not the changeling is hauled along, Spark takes the pony inside.
>>109400>>109398Getting the changelings to.., well, do anything, is going to take some artistry and persuasion
>>109405Spark opens the door inside and waves them in.
>>109405>Artistry and persuasionWhat a coincidence! That's what Onyx calls his hooves!
>>109409He can try that
>>109406The changelings are scared and uncertain , and full of adrenaline
>>109410Onyx ignores them for now and hauls the two ponies inside
"I wish that bat was here right about now."
>>109411"Yeah. Let me try something."
>>109410Spark goes to the cabin kitchen, or pantries if that is all they have, and finds what kind of food they have.
>>109411The two ponies are dragged up, and in. Onyx feels much weaker than before, with a slower heart beat
Calling it early tonight.
Hopefully the monthly trio can return.
>>109413Onyx searches for the vodka and downs a swig when it is found.
>>109412Only a single drawer of carrots and a few turnips. Actually, there are a few potatoes in a sort of pantry
>>109415Thankfully, a small amount remains
>>109416Not exactly bug bait, but maybe they will understand.
Spark goes back to the door and places a turnip at the door and pats beside it.
>>109416Onyx slowly makes his way back towards Spark
"Those... Damned... Bugs"
>>109418"They might be useful. If they can give us a map or some way to avoid patrols, then our mission might just have a chance at success."
>>109419"Yeah, useful if they could keep their mouths off of every damned pony they see."
>>109417>>109418Ruby gets up. The little colt behaves like an ancient dog with his slow movements
“You’re back!
Rose. Dawson! Are you okay?”
He moves forward
Outside, the two wounded, bleeding creatures look at Spark. They don’t seem interested in eating the turnip
>>109421"They're alive."
Onyx finds the sofa and lies down
"Damn bugs and their drain."
>>109422Onyx is tired, and the grey colt (he was bright red before) comes before Onyx
“Will they be okay? Are we safe?”
He looks at onyx suspiciously
>>109422"Make sure they stay warm. I'm going to get the prisoners."
>>109421Spark goes back outside and walks up to the bugs.
"You."
He points at them.
"Inside."
He points to the door.
>>109423"Safe? Hardly. As long as those bucking bugs are allowed to roam Equestria nopony is safe"
Any sparkle in Onyx's coat is gone, as his eyes slowly turn more grey. His voice is filled with anger.
"Okay? Yeah probably"
>>109424"Whatever"
He slowly gets up and rolls them towards the fireplace.
>>109424They blink with sideways eye lids
>>109425“Be careful with them! Those are my friends” Ruby says
>>109426"Yeah yeah"
He moves them a bit gentler before flopping himself back on the couch.
>>109426Spark sighs, but continues to try to comunicate.
"You."
He points to them.
"Go."
He points to his hooves and walks towards the door a few paces.
"Inside."
He points to the door.
>>109428They are cautious, but come closer, and ever closer to the door to come inside. One is bleeding it’s blue blood, the other has serious burn marks with an almost destroyed uniform
[1d20 = 2]>>109429Spark leans them in and guides them away from the ponies. He then bandages up the bleeding one.
Rolling Wisdom
>>109430Fuck. Damn changeling biology being different from ponies and all...
[1d20+3 = 9]>>109430“HISS!”
It bites Spark with its fangs
>>109430Another issue. All of the ponies are in the central room next to the fire place. Where even to put the changelings that won’t spook the ponies?
>>109432Rood of the damn bug
"Oh look,it bites the hoof that tries to heal it. Shocking"
[1d20 = 8]>>109432"OW! Sorry! I'm trying to patch you up damn it!"
Spark tries again.
>>109433Well, are there any other rooms, or is this a one room cabin?
>>109436It’s small. There is a separate bedroom, and an attacked kitchen
>>109437Assuming the bandage is now applied, Spark leads them into the bedroom.
>>109434"Hey Onyx! Put a sticky note on Brie's head saying we need a translator!"
>>109438"Fine!"
Onyx writes a colorful note about needing a translator, and not-so-gently attaches it to the bat's face.
>>109438So... the petrified ponies are just lying on the floor?
>>109440Hey! They get to be by the fire.
>>109439"Now, if you can help move this bed into the living room, that will be very kind of you."
>>109441"Fine"
Onyx snorts in an annoyed manner as he helps spark move the bed.
>>109441The changelings are directed to the more cold room while the ponies are left lying on the wooden floor. But what then?
>>109443They are getting a bed.
>>109442"I'm going to keep an eye on them. Don't anypony run off."
Spark locks the door once the bed is moved.
>>109444"Oh I don't think that's a problem. But I'll watch them"
>>109444Locking the door is not really possible, with no key. Spark has moved, what? One bed? He needs more beds and blankets
>>109446Now you are just being picky. Please don't make me have to declare actions for moving each bed and blanket or we will be here all night.
>>109447>>109445Well, Onyx has not one, not two, but three unconscious almost dead ponies lying on the floor below him, a very drained and scared colt who is still partly freaking out about the whole situation, two vampire soldiers placed in the next bedroom, and less than a quarter of a bottle of vodka left.
How does it feel, and what does Onyx do next?
>>109448The true NPC limiter!
Leadership peeps hate this amazing tip
>>109450That image is horrifyingHi GMo!
How's it going?
>>109451Okay
Now, I need to figure out what exactly is going on with all of the NPCs in the cabin, as well as actually bother to write up the third and most important part of the 34 Hoebuck dossier
>>109452Good!
It shouldn't be too hard, I think. Only time consuming. Be sure to jot it down somewhere, or have a little map of the place to make things easier later on
>>109452That would help very much.Also, *poke*
>>109454*does not like being poked back*
I’ll see what I can type up during periods of downtime
Drove out to a JP court for two bench trials on speeding tickets. First guy pleas out, get ready for the second one and worry about it... when the guy shows up, he explains he just wanted to ask the judge a question, and pleas out
>>109455Don't multitask too much.
It can get pretty heavy on your nerves.
The spoilers sounds like it could be part of a comedy movie
>>109460Hello.
I think that Blue Skies has been sitting next to Dark Star this entire time, but has not been hugged or cuddled even once
>>109461Dark Star gives her a Big Hug.
>>109462*poner is hugged*
She’s even softer than usual, although her lavender smell has been replaced with that of a tropical fruit
>>109463Smelling like bananas
>>109463"Your Coat feels like silk."
He Smiles at her
>>109464Silver keeps his voice low as to not announce what he's saying to the world. Or, in this case, the table. "So, Iron...any other details on this 'night of romance' you had with Cauldron?"
>>109466Iron looks at Silver questioningly.
"It was a bit... cramped. Not what you would call somehwere where you should do it."
>>109467"Not
exactly what I have in mind, but alright. Was it like date? You two go to see movie or something like beforehoof?"
>>109468His look changes to uncomfortable, really unsure of how much he should say.
"Well... you could say it was kind of like a date, sure. A... romantic walk on nature kind."
>>109469Silver nods. "That does indeed sound romantic. You know, you do not
have to tell me if you do not want to. I do not want to make you uncomfortable, I was just curious."
>>109471Iron raises an eyebrow, not really believing him.
"Uh huh."
Your trust level with Iron is too low to go along this line of conversation.
>>109465She smiles at him with her malign glee
“Thank you. Want to feel it some more?”
>>109469Blue Skies looks skeptically at Iron as he advances his claims of sexual activity
>>109472Silver takes another drink of whiskey, his last for the night. "Hmm. Well then...would you mind telling me bit about your tribe, where you came from?"
>>109473He Grins
"Of Course."
He Hugs her tighter
>>109474"yea i've never really read any books on the native tribes before. i would be interested in that too."
>>109475*poner is hugged more*
She presses her head into him, closes her eyes, and smiles in his embrace
>>109473Iron glances at her then back at Silver.
(If she doesn't believe it, then she won't ask about it. I see this as an absolute win.)
>>109474>>109475...crap. I knew this was going to happen. Time to put my improv hat on.Iron looks pensively.
"I admit I have not listened to the word of the elders, so mine may be inaccurate."
He lightly scratches the table, trying to remember.
"If I am not mistaken, my tribe was founded by Hoof, an Earth Pony unhappy with the unification of the Three Tribes and rounded up like-minded ponies off into creating a settlement. I am not sure why exactly he did it or if it was even true. Some spread the rumor he was merely taking advantage of the dissent to try and create his own tribe."
He shakes his head.
"Anyways, he led them to a safe spot to start anew and went from there. From then on it was the usual: Forage, train, explore and return with the spoils. Mares are not able to go out of the tribe, being pushed into more indispensable jobs like pottery and healing instead of being fighters, since their dexterity is better, or so said Hoof and his friends say. So far they are not wrong."
He snickers.
"I remember my mother always having some sugarcane to bite on after a training session. It was like she had in her mane or something."
Clearing his throat a bit to return to serious mode, he continues.
"While my fighting style relies on hooves, fellow tribesmen do use some war tools like spears and clubs. Some special ones even get what they call a 'quarter-staff', no idea what that means. It looks like a smooth, long stick to bonk ponies on their heads. Seems only elders' colts get to use them, unless they show exceptional 'skill and discipline' or some spiel like that."
He rolls his eyes over it, before proceeding.
"I think I have already told you Star, but I am in the third phase of the cycle: Exploring and mastering this concrete jungle to reach stallionhood. Previous colts back when it was a group of ponies only needed to explore into the Three Tribes, but recently they have set the far more 'advanced' tribe of... Equestria, I think, as the new place to mature."
He looks at the interested duo.
"Was that good enough?"
>>109477He Laughs at the sugar cane in the hair bit
"What is your Mother and Father Like?"
"Yea i Remember you telling me that, it seems like a Interesting tradition,do all young stallions from your tribe do this?"
>>109476He strokes her face and hair with his hoof
>>109479*coo*
Her ear wiggles, and her mane is extra soft
>>109477"That is rather interesting tradition, mastering this 'concrete jungle'. What is it for?"
>>109478Iron raises an eyebrow.
(Is he trying to know the feeling of parental love, maybe?)
But relents, thinking he'll be satisfied with hearing it.
"Mother was quite nice. She always coddled me, my brother and my sister with all sorts of little snacks. Good cook, too, but not at the level I have recently experienced. She mainly focused on teaching my sister the arts of healing, from putting some sticky thing on wounds to preparing them."
He can't help but crack a smile.
"It felt nice when they placed it on mine. I guess it was Earth Pony magic."
A little pause, looking a bit more confused.
"My father was... strange, as some of the tribesstallions said. He was cheery, yet considered as a feared stallion worthy to take down an entire group of 20 ponies, enduring every single blow they threw at him. His maturity travels were said to have been the longest any stallion has even been, and it shows from how he speaks to how fancy his spear looked."
He places his hoof under his head and looked at the ceiling in thought.
"He always encouraged me to take walks in the jungle, often ending in me poking, seeing and tasting most things, even though I did not know what most of the stuff was."
He snickered.
"I even ate some weird looking mushroom that made me see all sorts of colors. My father had to take me back home after that because I was acting aloof. I bet he knew what it was and did not stop me, the rascal."
He chuckles, but turns a bit serious.
"He was also quite scary when he got upset."
>>109481>>109478"The idea is simple: Learn to master the outside and bring back all your newly belongings back to the tribe. The more you bring, the greater you will be revered. Of course it would be shared amongst fellow tribesponies out of virtue, but you can take it all for yourself if you had big plans of any kind."
He nods.
"And yes,
all colts who enter the age of close-to-stallionhood have to do it, or else be treated like a colt until you do. Worst case scenario, the pony stubborn enough could be forcefully expelled into it."
>>109477She raises an eyebrow and looks as if she is about to say something, but ultimately says nothing
>>109483Iron, somewhat curious she didn't simply say it, decides to press her for it.
"Is something wrong, Skies?"
>>109482Silver looks him up and down. "You do not seem close to stallionhood to me. You seem like full-grown stallion who is almost as big as I am."
>>109484So Iron has been parading himself as a “native,” acting as if he’s from some tribe right out of the Amazon Rainforest, and now you want to claim that Iron actually is not and never has been a Native, nor does his culture have anything at all to do with any natives: it is instead a set of Equestrian ponies that separated from the Equestrians after the Equestrians immigrated south. More like Husserites and Mennonites than Comanche Indians. Like, the whole point of having natives in the setting was to show that actually, no, the land that is Equestria was not completely uninhabited before the the United Tribes came in, but was preceded by earlier waves of Earth Ponies in that area. Also, if it’s an Equestrian culture, then why the vast cultural differences between Iron and Equestria? The Amish are a European culture that split off from Germany and who reject a decent portion of modern civilization, but they behave more like other Europeans than do any of the American Indians...But it doesn’t really matter. Dark Star, Silver, and to a lesser extent even Ash have done some equally possibly devious world building, but I haven’t said anything because a character’s background belongs to the player.
>>109485Iron snickers.
"I appreciate your compliment, but I am merely 19 years old."
Cue shock and awe.
>>109486Aw, fuck. Well, that's what I get for trying to build on previously established concepts without fully understanding them. I thought they were a big native tribe composed.
>>109480He Smiles
"You're Beautiful."
>>109482"My Mom was the Same way. She often tried to stop my brother and i from fighting when i was a colt."
He Smiles a Bittersweet Smile.
"You Dad Sounds Like an interesting Stallion to say the least. A Mushroom that made you see colors? I've had experiences with them myself.
I Found a Patch of them on a remote part of the property i grew up on. The Trees Grew Faces and started talking to me. then i felt like i was falling and i saw a bunch of weird shapes and Vivid Colors."
>>109482"Very Interesting Indeed."
>>109486Honestly, I would rather hear your criticisms.>>109487Silver doesn't even bat an eye. "As I said, full-grown stallion."
He sits in thought for a couple seconds. "Your father sounds nice. I think he and my father would have gotten along well."
>>109489Iron looked at him strangely.
"Our father practically encouraged me and my brother to hooffight between ourselves to deal with our issues, except my sister of course."
He looks iffy, knowing how bad he felt after the 'trip'
>>109490The reverse jailbait.Iron blinks.
"Eh, I do not feel fully grown yet. Otherwise, I would not even be here."
>>109486>>109488Chalk it up to bad narrator in this case, if you point it out, he'll probably correct himself.
>>109489I think Dark Star is remembering watching Pocahontas
>>109488Were you going to type more and were cut off?
>>109492Not really, but feel free to do
>>109491Man, I feel dumb.
>>109491He gives him a grin. "Perhaps in mind you have little ways to go, yet..."
>>109491"Our Dad Encouraged that stuff as well."
He Smiles and chuckles
"But boy! Mom sure hated it."
"I Felt Very Sick afterwords,Luckily my brother was the only one at home,when i walked back up to the house.Because as soon,as i walked through the gate."
>>109492Kek
>>109489“D’aww, thanks....” her expression changes a little
“You should..... probably not war random mushrooms off the ground”
>>109496"You're welcome."
He Smiles
Then he chuckles at the mushroom comment
"Yea, I Learned that the hard way...I Did go Back to that patch a couple times though."
>>109497She just blinks, and sits upright in her seat
>>109487All at once, she both finds it hard to believe, yet acknowledges that that really would explain a lot
>>109488Nah it’s fine.... as I said I try to give players leeway to make their characters and I’ve seen equally objectionable things from Silver and Dark Star
>>109494Iron looks at his forelegs.
"I guess I do not
look like a colt, I suppose. I thought stallionhood was at the 20 year-mark at the least, so that was why I was confused at your comment."
>>109495Iron chuckled.
"Honestly, my mom grew to tolerate it after a while. I think she liked being there for us and healing us up."
But he does turn slightly iffier.
"Yeah... my mom got so worried."
>>109499Too late!A tiny spark crossed his mind as he now understands Skies' curiousness.
"Oh wait! I knew something was off. It was not the Three Tribes or unifications. I just happened to hear about it somewhere and mixed it up badly."
He coughs again, entering into story-time again.
"I think it was more of a sibling rivarly between Hoof and his brother, Buck. Both were candidates for being chieftain, but Buck won out, leaving Hoof bitter so he took off with some of his friends, his wife, his foals and some dissenters who did not like Buck's overreliance on arrows, feeling the tools were too powerful against nature to deal with."
He watches her mull in thought.
(I wonder if she will give sugarcanes now because I said that.)
He chuckles.
('Not a chance', she would say most likely.)
>>109500"It is something like that, I suppose."
>>109499"Whats Wrong?"
He Looks Concerned
>>109500"My Brother Freaked Out. He Threatened to Tell Mom a few times but i was able to talk him out of it. I Guess i was always Pretty Good at that."
>>109501Iron pokes one foreleg with his hoof.
"I understand, since you look somewhat like me with some more years on you, judging by the scars you have."
>>109502Iron extends one side of his lips, a bit against Star's actions.
"Eh, you should have told her. It is no good to keep secrets with family. They are the ones whom you should trust most."
>>109502She turns her head away, shakes it slightly, and says in a very soft voice
"Earth Ponies... eating stuff off the ground when they know it makes them sick, and always looking to get beat up"
>>109504"Many...even if my winter coat is hiding them right now."
>>109505>>109502Iron smiles excitedly, placing one hoof on the table and the other raised.
"Oh! That is me! I am that pony!"
>>109506He returns to original position, chuckling for his outburst.
"I told you. I am not a stallion yet. My coat only has..."
He peeks around his coat, moving away the hairs to try and find any.
"...I cannot see any of them."
>>109504He Sounds rather melancholic
"Yea.... I Wish i would have gotten to tell her. I Never Got the opportunity to confess to her before she was gone."
>>109505"Eh...Thats just our nature i guess."
He Grins
>>109507"We are Both that pony,pal."
He Chuckles
>>109509He chuckles some more at her expense, looking outside if the time is near where he has to do the
thing.>>109508At first he chuckles with him some more, but
Iron feels bad after bringing the 'mother is dead' stuff, looking grim.
"Right. Forgot about that."
>>109511"It's Ok. I've gotten used to it."
He Smiles
>>109509>>109512"Ah Don't be like that."
He Cuddles her
>>109513*Poner is cuddled*
Her wings are pushed up a little.
She enjoys the cuddling
>>109512>>109514>>109513He grins knowingly
"Just as planned."
He turns to Dark Star, unsure of his 'coped' status.
"If you say so."
The floof pony meanwhile sits there awkwardly, not really knowing what to talk about.
>>109499This is still bothering the hell out of me.
>>109517Skies pats the floof pony
Um... what’s bothering you?
>>109517Iron decides to do the most sensible thing in this situation:
He boops Silver's snoot! The devilish fiend!
>>109519>>109517Dark Star Boops Silver right after iron
>>109518*floof pony is pat*
[Silver liked that]
What're the objectionable things I've said, before?>>109519*floof pony is booped*
[Silver disliked that]
>>109521Iron smiles like a dummy.
"You look bored."
>>109522"Well, bored might be one way to put it." Silver leans back in his chair. "I suppose I simply have nothing really to do at moment, and it is making me little restless. I would drink some more, but if we are going to recon then it is good idea that I have clear head." He thinks back to the drinks he's already had. "Well, mostly clear head."
Okay, I should definitely write out the last part of the dossier... but damn it’s hard to find motivation
>>109521Do you really want to know?
>>109523Iron nods, returning to his original stance.
"Perhaps we can play some sort of game?"
He looks at the others, unsure of what kind of game adults like them play.
(I hope it is tag. I like tag.)
>>109524Psst. How much time Iron has left? I don't want him overextending his bounds and missing the deadline.And I know that feeling, man.
>>109526Silver tilts his head. "Game? Like poker, or something like that?"
>>109527Iron shrugs.
"Maybe? I do not know what games are popular here."
>>109528"I have not played any game in...well, it has been long while. You would probably know better than I would."
>>109529Iron hums in thought.
"I have no idea either. Most of the ones I used to play back home would put me in a big advantage as well as leave us injured most likely."
>>109530"...We should probably avoid them then." Silver thinks on the subject.
>>109531Iron looks at him expectantly.
>>109520He turns to see Dark Star.
"Do you have any ideas?"
>>109525Okay....The one that came to mind was the story of alicorns or supernatural something or other visiting Severyanan ponies. I kind of wanted to object because it would be an instance of contact with god-like beings, which I wanted to control because the way in which god-like entities interact with the world kind of runs according to a plan I had, and that didn't necessarily fit in with it. On the other hoof.... maybe it can work? Also, Silver told it like a legend, so it always has the possibility of being false or an adaptation of something else.This is a more minor thing, but Silver said Severyana was a United Tribe, and I was thinking that because Severyana is one of the only pony areas on Equus to have a distinctly different language and culture that it was probably a separate pony nation that predated the united tribes, was eventually annexed into Equestria after failed attempts by Crusaders to conquer it, but always felt like a distinct culture and region, which aided the calls for independence which resulted in Stalliongrad. Of course, maybe it is a United Tribe, who knowsAnother one was attitudes towards Homosexuality. I know that a hell of a lot of fanfics portray Equestria as always having perfect freelove, geneder nuetral pronouns,mandatory lesbianism and whatever the hell else, but Equestria has always seemed to me to be or recently have been a traditionalist, communitarian society that is not likely to accept homosexuality, or at least not without some reservations. More to the point, I'm kind of doing an adaptation of the World circa 1940, so attitudes towards homosexuality are complex, but strongly tending towards non-acceptance. Interestingly Stalliongrad would probably be among the most socially progressive in that regard. I was going to write a long post about a history of attitudes towards homosexuality, but ultimately didn't. Obviously Silver can be pro-homosexual if he wants to be. He's part Bolshevik after all, and probably a lot of the Communists and some of the Social Democrats in Baltimare would agree with him (and maybe also certain Spartans). It's just that homosexual acceptance is not going to be ubiquitous in this setting.There was the cuddle pile thing. That's not really objectionable, it just seemed kind of weird. Of course, Silver could have just been making shit up to fuck with Dark Star. Also, some cultures, like Greeks for example, are going to be a hell of a lot more comfortable with touching than AmericansAlso there was the armpit aphrodisiac thing that Silver told Dark Star about pegasi biology while they were in the attic of the Comte residence. This isn't really objectionable for worldbuilding reasons, but because it was something told to Dark Star meaning I would need to ERP it. Let me repeat that. I would have to ERP fucking sexy smelly armpits. Just.Again, I don't want to discourage players from adding more depth to character back stories. You can participate in world building as well
>>109526What are you talking about?
>>109534Honestly, that all is good to know. Thanks!
>>109533>>109531"How about a game of Cards?"
He Grins
>>109534>sexy smelly armpits
HNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG
>>109534I thought it was the wings that were supposed to be smelled, not the armpits.Remember the Cauldron situation? Iron still has to deal with that. Honestly, time shouldn't have passed by a lot, but Iron would like to know how long he has.
And you know, you wouldn't put an actual time limit on PCs, are you?>>109536Iron looks at Dark Star.
"Maybe. What do you have in mind?"
>>109536>>109535Um..,. Are you sure?
Another thing from much further back I initially didn’t like was in the story about how Silver met Storm Warning. It was a cute story, but it seemed off to me that Equestria would just let a major trade route right next to the capital and basically on top of the old capital be overrun with bandits and highwaymen. I eventually got over that an actually sort of integrated it into the Train quest-line. When the train is stopped near the Everfree forest (on the side of the forest opposite of Ponyville) it is attacked by a set of old mares, kind of like the group that Storm Warning was a part of. Their leader is even named “Red Morning,” from the adage “red sky at morning, sailor’s warning,” like she’s named after Storm Warning.>>109537How long until what?
>>109534As far as more in-depth thoughts go:#1: This isn't one of my better moments. I wasn't thinking straight and I somehow managed to mash up two completely different concepts in my head and they just did not mix well.#2: Silver never said that Severyana was one of the tribes that founded Equestria, as far as my knowledge goes. He did say that the ponies of Severyana first united underneath Tsar-turned-Emperor Peter the Great, which included both Severyana proper and where Nova Griffonia is located, now (though I've since changed the date to something After Lunar Banishment: 420 - 421 ALB). In my head, I figured that the preservation of Severyanan culture and language meant that the country would have been a recent acquisition compared with the rest of Equestria. The catalyst I've got for that happening is in 793, when the Griffonian Empire beat the Severyanan Empire in a Five Years' War and annexed the territories of what would be known as Nova Griffonia: Severyana would immediately afterwards agree to become a vassal of Equestria in exchange for protection, and in 822, Equestria formally integrated the region into Equestria itself after Tsar Nikolai Nickerlaevich was deposed.#3: What can I say? Silver was lonely, horny, drunk, and Dark Star is a very soft mare-like pone. Likely won't happen again, though I imagine it'll continue to be a bit of a running joke.#4: Don't you be dissin' the cuddle pile, now.#5: Feel free to ignore that particular piece of lore if you want to. Just a little throwaway something. Silver will never talk about it again.>>109538That's pretty nifty, actually. I like that.Also, yeah, of course it's good to know. It's good to know the flaws in my storytelling, as it's hard for me to see them, myself.
>>109538Faith in humanity: Lost with my sides.Well, Iron did promise her in his panic to tell the
deep dark secret he had to her, which is that particular dream part he was abashed about.
Pretty sure it's not actually necessary, but I like to think Iron's on an actual time limit just to rack up his tension.
>>109537"How About Black Jack? it's a pretty fun game."
>>109538
>>109541Silver nods. "Yes, it is indeed good game. If we find set of cards, who would serve as dealer?"
>>109541Iron tilts his head.
"I guess I can try it, but I have no idea how to play it."
>>109542"After you. i've never really been the best dealer."
>>109543"Can you do math?"
I kind of feel like I’m failing at my job here if you all are boredThere actually is someone I am waiting on before starting the Hoebuck quest>>109539Reee
>>109542Also reee
>>109545Who would you be waiting on, if I am allowed to ask?Also, why are you reeeing?
>>109545Well, Iron has the perfect ending for the day at any rate, as long as he doesn't spill more spaghetti than usual.>>109544Iron stares at Dark Star blankly.
"Yes, I can do math. It was boring, but useful."
>>109547"Its a simple game, the first one to 21 wins. my brother always used to beat me at it."
>>109548Iron nods.
"I suppose that works. Do you have the things necessary to play the game now?"
>>109547>>109546>>109546Because you contradicted me on point 2I am trying to get Ash back
>>109550Oh. You mean in how I said I thought that Silver never said that Severyana was one of the founding tribes?It would be nice to have her back, even if she makes us all look bad by comparison.
>>109550I am quite surprised you actually went and fetched him, but are you sure you are making the right move? Or perhaps I'll be forced to go away too if she doesn't show up since there's so many wrenches in your plans because of her absence. I'm not sure he'll bite unless you go to grovel levels in my opinion.Also maybe letting some non-SRD books through in your game setting.>pic relatedCome on, now. Don't be like that. You know Iron loves Cauldron more than the physical aspects.
>>109552What? Why do you say that?
>>109551And why do you say that?
>>109553Well... He didn't part because she was bored. More like he felt particularly offended by your actions. His words, not mine.
That means it's not going to be that simple to mend, unless you have a plan of sorts that could attract him back 100% for sure.
>>109553They just know how to use the game mechanics in ways that are far beyond the rest of us. They sound like they know what they're doing when they play (excluding the times Ash sets things on fire), and Ash just seems a lot more optimized for her role than the rest of the cast.
>>109548Silver briefly changes the subject. "You said you would attempt to carry out your mission tomorrow morning: do you have more specific time? I promised Father Maren and myself I would help volunteer to clear bodies from quarry and catacombs tomorrow."
>>109552>>109554>>109555I’ve noticed the “optimization”
>>109557You do you, GM, but I warn you: It's going to be a hard sell, so get your 3 paragraph apology ready.
Well, I'm cashing out for the night.
Have good day, peeps.
Soon, I shall acheive waifu obtained status.
>>109560Soon, Iron will be sucking on that straw!
A nice Chryssi pic. Would pat/10
>>109566
Wait, what happened?
I seem to have missed something here.
>>109566>>109567I'd have to agree here: what exactly has you so upset?
>>109583Don't boop me! >:(
I’m not entirely sure I’m feeling it today
\r
>>109585REEEEEEEEEEEEE!
>>109587We won't hold it against you if you need time to rest and recuperate. It isn't any fun for anyone, yourself included, if the GM is all frazzled.
Know of something else you'd like to do after you get off work to relax? Any good vidya?
>>109590Oh. I'm sorry to hear that.
>>109592>>109587Well damn. I have no idea what caused you this lack of motivation but we're here for you man.
I received my PonyFinder Bestiary today
>>109604Nice.
Never thought one existed.
What's it got?
>>109605Gotime the other day too from the BC vendor. It's got rules for both Pathfinder and 5e characters and monsters plus original creatures. Bat ponies, fairy ponies, constructs, etc.
>>109606Quite spoopy, indeed.
Definitely good to have some guidelines on monsters. It eases quite the heavy load with thinking up creatures the PCs can fight or not.
>>109606Yes, that’s where I got mine
>>109605Well I don’t know all of what it’s got in it, but I will be exploring it
>>109611Nice. Awaiting what inspiration you'll get from it.
Goddamn, it's quiet in here.
>>109652And someone is going to dieJust kidding
>>109653Oh, good! Thought I was going to have to break out the hankerchief for my sweating forehead.
>>109659Feelin' any better today?
>>109661>>109659That happy changie sure makes it look like it.
>>109663A little is better than nothing. Have a cute.
I think I should make the next part of the quest dossier tonight, or soon
>>109665D'aww, that really is a cute
>>109664Wat
>>109666 (checked)
Neato, Satan.
>>109666>un-checkedReeeeeeeeee
Whoops sorry.
Have more cat.
>>109674How dare u!
You maek cat sed
>>109674
>>109676Im sorry cat fren, heres some catnip
>>109677That pencil boop is awesome.
>>109678Now that's more like it, brother.
>>109679tfw no pencil or pencil-drawn pone to boop
>>109677Apogee is top cute
>>109681If there's an Apogee in the EaW universe, I hope she's doing alright.
Did something break out here?
>>109682 Most likely helping build the equivalent of a nuke with her dad either as an unwilling changeling scientist, an unwilling New Mareland scientist or living in her mom's dump.
>>109683Yea >pic related
>>109682I Hope there is an apogee in this universe
Um.... players can converse with each other in character since they should all be together now. I am going to type up part 3 now, which should hopefully be the last essential piece of the dossier
>>109682>>109685Shinpdage's apogee comic series depicts an Equestria that is substantially more technologically advanced than the one depicted in Equestria at War. They aren't so easy to reconcile together
>>109687Silver looks over at Dark Star. "So, I am thinking of dusting off my weaponsmithing abilities tomorrow, after we finish with mission. I have already got idea for something I could make Iron. Do you have anything you would like made for you? Shortsword, maybe, for when enemies get too close for comfort?"
>>109688I'll withhold my right until I actually reach a keyboard, but I can respond some small questions if they want to interact.
>>109689"Uh, Sure. i'm not exactly the best with swords though."
>>109691"It does not have to be sword, that is just first idea that came to mind. Give me some ideas, and I will see what I can do."
>>109692"Maybe A Dagger?"
He puts his hoof to his chin in thought
>>109693Silver nods. "I can do dagger. Anything special you would want done with it, to personalize it?"
>>109690"I suppose I should ask you same: anything you want done with your gift?"
*Skies takes a long drink of her maretini*
>>109694Iron ponders for a bit.
"I have no idea what to expect. Maybe make it look like wood?"
>>109694"Uh yeah,Could you engrave 2 crossed fasces on the Handle and above those could you write "The Blue Skies will always guide me home"?"
>>109696"Hmm...I am not certain how possible that will be, but I can try. I have never heard of such request before."
>>109697Silver nods. "I can do this."
>>109695Finally, Silver turns to Skies with a smile. "So...anything you would like made for
you, Ms. Skies, should results for these two look promising?"
Iron looks to the sides, a bit guilty
"You can always not do it. It is supposed to be a gift, not a request you are being paid for."
>>109699Silver waves it off. "It is no big deal for me to try. It is simply new to me."
>>109700Iron looks quite unconvinced.
"I guarantee I will not be upset if you simply bring me a basic one."
(Like it could compare to my hooves.)
>>109701"We will see what happens."
>>109697Skies smiles
>>109698"Well.... maybe"
>>109702Iron nods.
(I hope he did not take that in a bas way.)
>>109703Silver motions with a hoof. "Well, let us hear idea you would have."
>>109704The look on Silver's face suggests that it was a mere statement of fact.
>>109703"i thought you might like that one."
He Grins
>>109705"Maybe a short sword... something like my cutie mark"
>>109706She smiles, then presses her body up against him, basically rubbing him like a cat
>>109706>>109707The scene in front of Iron only serve as a grim reminder of what he may have given up because of prior actions.
(I hope I can get that feeling, too.)
>>109707He pets her with a look of joy and contentment on his face.
>>109709*coo*
She coos like a dove, and her ears flop down as she closes her eyes and accepts the pets
>>109707"Hmm...may I get proper look at your cutie mark, then?"
>>109711She smiles and slightly laughs with a "heh," and says explicitly
"Do you really think I'm going to just let you get a look at my ass"
She says that almost pointlessly, as she immediately pulls herself a little aways from Dark Star, leans down, and thrusts her right flank up into the air where her rump is almost in Dark Star's face, and her flank is visible to Silver. She moves her tail far off to the side so her cutie mark can be seen. It's what looks like a combat knife or sword without a hilt, with a brown leather handle, a straight double blade, and golden wings going off to either side
\r
>>109713Iron can't help but be slightly disturbed and disgusted by Skies' actions, blaring alarms in his head.
(Why did she need to do that? She is mental!)
"Try not to show your hindquarters to the rest of the bar, please."
>>109713Even with the surprise this action brings, Silver nods, appreciating the design of the sword upon her posterior. Pony magic has a knack for designing rather aesthetic weapons. "It looks like it would perfectly fit for daughter of Nimbusia like yourself. I can do that."
>>109714“Oh fuck off, you’re the only one who interprets it as sexual. He asked to see my cutie mark, and I am showing it to him. Now turn your head away you pervert”
>>109715“Indeed it does.”
She lowers her behind, and sits down in the booth with her back now against Dark Star
>>109713Dark Star has a large grin on his face
"Nice View."
>>109714"It's fine. nopony is making a scene but you."
>>109717She turns her head back to him, and gives him that malign grin. “I’m glad you like it. I was very proud of that cutie mark”
>>109717>>109716Iron looks knowingly at the both of them, shaking his head.
(Poor colt. Cuckoldry is his future with that mare.)
He decides not to cause anymore ruckus about it, since it's really none of his business to intervene.
>>109714>>109716>>109717Silver smiles as ideas of these new future designs go through his head. "I do hope this goes well. I want to give something back to you all who I would consider my friends."
>>109719>>109720She leans back towards Dark Star, and places a hoof and foreleg around him, giving malevolent look at Iron
Then she looks over to Silver, more warmly
“Thank you”
>>109720Iron shrugs.
"I will await your result."
>>109718"How did you get it?"
>>109719"Something wrong? you look like you have something to say."
>>109723“It was during a test at my school. We were divided into teams for capture the flag in a wooded area. The other side took up a strong defensive position in a little building, and no pony in my group could get past them. I went off on my own, and I slipped past them. When I planted the flag down in our fort, it appeared on me. No pony knew how I had done it. You know, I was one of the last ponies in my class to get my cutie mark...”
>>109721>>109722>>109723"And who knows? Perhaps in future, when we face greatest evils of this world together, and prepare to deliver final blow, it will be with my steel that evil shall be slain."
>>109721Iron simply looks at her for a bit, unimpressed, then back at nothing in particular.
(I bet he will simply rut her harder later to compensate.)
>>109723He looks at Star, feeling the possible anger over his callout.
"I will withhold any comments. You two have fun with eachother and all that."
(Not my problem to deal with. If it works for him, it works to them.)
Iron looks at Silver doubtfully.
"Sure?"
>>109726“Sounds like somepony is jealous
he hasn’t gotten a rump in face”
>>109728Iron squints at Skies, seeing through her taunt.
"I can wait for that. There are better things to do than looking under tails."
(I cannot fight now. I must deal with my actual problem, not create a new one along with it.)
>>109729“Then why were you staring at my ass?”
>>109728>>109729>>109730As much as Silver dislikes the idea of these ponies fighting right now, he does let out a *snnrk* from biting back a bit of laughter.
>>109730Iron does not get the typical blush from that kind of callout like he usually does.
"Because you lifted it up so everypony can see? What kind of question is that?"
>>109732“Well what the hell kind of reaction is this you’re having to me showing another pony my cutie mark? Are you afraid of cutie marks? Did a cutie mark kill your family? Or are you expressing a deeper fear of the female body?”
>>109724"that"s an amazing story. i bet you had the best one in class."
He smiles
>>109725"that sounds Like a great time."
>>109726"i Don't want any hard feelings between us, if we are going to work as a team i need to know how everypony feels."
>>109733Iron deadpans at Skies.
"Yes, because showing your cutie mark involves burying your coltfriend in mare bits so that others can gawk at."
>>109733>>109734>>109735Silver looks between the three of them. "I do not know about you, Iron, but I believe Dark Star got best deal of anypony else in tavern, there."
>>109734She pulls on him a little more, and bats her eyes towards him
“
You can bet I did”
>>109735“Mare bits? Colt,
where is you mind? I was showing my cutie mark to Silver. Colt, keep up your perviness and I’ll report you to your mother. And yes. It’s a lovely cutie mark. Glad you think it is ‘gawk’ worthy”
>>109736"I Would have to agree."
>>109737He Squeezes her tight with his foreleg
"what did the other team think when you captured it?"
>>109738*poner is squeezed*
At least she feels smooth on the outside
“What did they think? Hehe, they didn’t even know it was missing until they saw the flag flying from our fort and heard the cheering”
>>109737Iron can't help but be frustrated at Skies' impish innocence.
"Stop acting innocent. I know what you did."
>>109736>>109738He turns to Silver, his nostrils flaring a bit.
"I would rather not, Silver," he grits his teeth lightly. "It can come later. I would rather talk about the
mission."
(Hopefully never)
>>109739He Laughs
"that's what i would expect from you."
>>109740"What Would you like to know about it?"
>>109740She bends over and laughs
“Haha, I showed my cutie mark to Silver and a bit more than that to my special somepony. Did you think I am impersonating somepony, or sold state secrets? Hehe, to hear you tell it...”
>>109741Iron blinks at Star.
"What kind of mission is it? Sabotage, scouting, annihilation. Kill, knockout, capture. Those kind of thin-."
>>109742He exhales loudly at her excuses for exhibitionism.
>>109741"-gs."
>>109743She is still smiling over at Iron
“Me thinks somepony wants a rump shoves in
his face by a special somepony. That, or he wishes he had a cutie mark like mine”
>>109743"well, its going to be broken into 2 parts, scouting of the Area. and then tomorrow morning, we stop their operations by what ever means possible. it's not going to be easy as they are working out of an old fort."
>>109744Iron looks at Skies with disdain.
(To be playing with her body like that. It sickens me. I bet she simply wants me to be part of her rutbuddies she has.)
Iron snickers to himself.
(It is way better to thrust inside the mare than simply look at nethers like some wimp.)
>>109745Iron halts his thought process.
"Wait. You mean we are doing part of the job today?"
>>109746"I suppose it could be put off for a day or two. if you need time to get ready. but yes that was the plan."
>>109747Iron shakes his head.
"What estimation do you have in terms of time spent doing the scouting?"
>>109746>>109747Skies places her hooves on the table, and looks more condemningly at Iron
“No no, tell us all what you have running through your mind, colt. Let us all in on how that little, sex-driven pea sized brain of your works”
>>109747Silver nods. "That might help. We can get our affairs in order, prepare supplies for mission. And it means we can plan everything else around mission, rather than trying to fit mission in middle of everything."
>>109746>>109749Silver grumbles at how the light ribbing of before has gone into full-blown insults.
>>109747>>109746i don't think the train bois are going to be back soon.>>109748"Well i was hoping brie would show up pretty soon."
>>109749
>>109749>>109750Iron's nostrils flare some more, but one glance at Silver warns him not to say anything to risk the mission.
"No."
>>109751Honestly, I still have to deal with Cauldron, and I'm not sure if breaking his word now will cause damage I can't repair later.Iron nods, still with a grimace
"It depends on how critical the mission is to your faction."
>>109753“Colt. You got a problem with me? You can say it out in the open. Because clearly,
you have a problem with me. So stallion up, and
talk.”
>>109753His tone turns serious.
"It's important for the entire city. pony's lives are on the line, those Griffons and ziggers are violent criminals."
>>109754Iron shakes his head, mood shifting to calm and neutral for her outburst.
"I would rather not."
>>109755Iron shrugs.
"If it must be done now, I will go with it."
(Scouting should not take too long.)
>>109756“Well why in the hell not? This problem has been going on every other time we’ve been together, and if I’m going to have to suffer your presence a little longer, it’s not going away then. So what is it, colt? Is it that your mother never taught you to respect ladies? Or is it just your own personal choice to be an insufferable jackass?”
>>109756"We can pit off scouting untill the morning, if you need to. better to have everypony in top shape."
>>109757"Blue please, calm down."
>>109758“
No. This scumbag has been disrespecting me - and you, for that matter - every time we’ve met. I will
not be treated this way by some hired help, and I absolutely am not going to suffer more of it in the future”
>>109757Iron nods.
"If it really is as important as you say, we may not have a lot of time to squander."
>>109759>>109758Iron looks at Skies strangely
"Wait a moment, how am I disrespecting your coltfriend for your actions? I made very clear what was wrong with your actions. Public exhibitionism is not a good thing. Keep that stuff inside the bedroom or at least in private where nopony can see you and we will not get on eachothers' manes."
>>109760“It’s not exhibitionism, Faust damn it, it was showing Silver my cutie mark.
You are the one who wants to interpret it as ‘exhibitionism,’ which it patently was not. Trust me, if I wanted to be an exhbitionist,
I can be an exhibitionist that is not what I was doing,
you stupid, blind fuck. And unless you’re death too, I’ll repeat myself a seventh time - I was just showing my cutie mark to Silver and maybe a little bit of rump to Dark Star and
nothing more. You are literally the only pony here who thinks it was anything more, and you are the only pony here with some phobia of mates that causes you to dislike it. And for the record, the ‘being disrespectful to Dark Star’ refers to your arrogant demand for a large payment before anything occurred on the docks. Not for anything that happened this night.”
>>109761Iron shrugs.
"Dark Star did not seem offended. He even was glad to do so. You are planting your emotions on your coltfriend."
He coughs a little.
"That is the problem, Skies. You did show your rump in front of Star and any bystanders who may have witnessed your lewd act, giving them a show. It is
not equal to kisses and cuddles. You are intentionally arousing your coltfriend, presenting yourself to him to do any sort of actions to your rump, most of them lewd-oriented, I bet."
He stretches his forelegs out.
"If you feel like that is fine, I urge you to do it in front of a group of colts, or perhaps in front of any of your relatives. I bet they will not get the
absurd ideas that I am getting from this."
>>109762She sighs, and looks up into the air
“You insufferable... I was
not presenting, I was not trying to arouse Dark Star, neither was he aroused, I was doing it in front of colts - you and Silver, even though obviously I didn’t intend for you to see it, I just didn’t know you’d never seen a mare before - and Yes. I have shown my cutie mark to relatives. Because they ask.”
>>109762“There’s nothing lewd about cutie marks. We’re fucking ponies. We’re naked, we have symbols on our butts that other ponies take interest in because it helps determine the division of labor in society, and they look at them.
Presenting is something else entirely, and refers to the display of genitals before a sexual act. Go back to sex ed, because you clearly failed it.”
>>109763Iron deadpans at Skies.
"By aiming your rump directly at your coltfriend's face? Would you do show your cutie mark
to one relative while putting your rump on another's face? Would you do the same with foals?"
>>109764Iron raises a hoof.
"One thing is simply showing your cutie mark. Another is actually aiming your hindquarters to another pony while doing it, planting it right on his face. It is one thing to be naked, it is
another to explicitly move your tail aside for another pony to see your intimate parts. Do not try to hide your lewd nature with excuses of being naked. The tail is exactly under your privates to cover the parts that should not be shown to anypony and you moved them aside to let your coltfriend see what is under them. Stop trying to excuse your actions and stop doing them."
>>109765“No, the tail is moved out of the way of the cutie mark. Not out of the way of the genitalia. The cutie mark. Get it right. Second, I’m in a booth. A booth. There is a table in front of me, a wall behind me, Dark Star to my right, and open space to my left. To show my flank to Silver, across from me, I necessarily have to move either to the left, or to the right. If I move to the left, then any other pony in the bar could see my rump. If I move to the right, then it’s contained to Dark Star. So yes, there is literally no other good way to do it except to point my rear towards Dark Star. And Dark Star didn’t see shit because I moved my tail off my cutie mark, not my genitalia. You fucking pervert.
And further more, if I had shown my genitals - I didn’t, but bare with me here, this is a hypothetical - so what? Why should you care? Are you a homosexual? Why are you making out as if it is murder of a child?
Dark Star did not care, Silver did not care, and I moved my rear towards Dark Star specifically so no pony else in the bar could see anything should anything be exposed. You and you alone have some sort of perverse moral indignation towards this imaginary slight.
Now please, cease your insufferable bickering over some bullshit misinterpretation of perfectly innocent actions.”
\r
>>109767Iron squints his eyes at her.
"I might be wrong about the tail, and the booth you are in did not let you show your cutie mark without compromise, but we both know you did it with lewd intentions in mind. You could have shown the cutie mark later out of the booth, not presenting yourself 'innocently' to anypony and not get into this situation at all, but you did not. I know you had the thoughts before I spoiled your mood. I did try to let it go but instead you pushed me for it simply to justify your acts to me, which should not be necessary if you really believe what you say. After all, you could have simply let it go and let it rest since we are not more than a mare and a stallion working together. Why is my opinion on acts you do not share with me matter to you? You would not have done it in the mission at all. Now the table is silent because of our spat that led us nowhere, intimidated by our talk."
Iron leans back, looking grim and slightly sense of both disbelief and regret.
(Great. Add another one to the list.)
>>109768“First off, there is a difference between ‘suggestive’ acts and poses, which really is what I was doing, and ‘explicit’ acts and poses, which is what you have been accusing me of. Neither is perfectly innocent, and both are kind of lewd, but only one is... whatever the hell you think is such a big deal.”
>>109768>>109766>>109750She moves back
“I fight for my own honor, and against any slight against me, because my honor and my dignity are worth fighting for. Because no pony else will fight for it except for me. And most importantly of all, because if you make it
damned clear that any pony who fights you will have to get bloody and suffer themselves, and that you are willing to fight and bleed. They’ll think twice before provoking you the next time. So no, I was not going to let it go, nor will I the next time.”
\r
>>109768>>109769"...Well...at least that is partially out of way, now. Less to worry about for more tense situations in future."
>>109770Were you there the whole time?
>>109772it’s been like two hoursAnd thus Silver and Iron both learn the magic of the Choleric personality type
>>109773You underestimate my patience.
>>109769Iron is dumbfounded.
(What kind of honor needs to be protected from assumed 'lowlives'? She is definitely compensating here.)
He decides to drop it, not wanting to keep this train of dialogue further.
>>109770Iron grimaces, knowing he still needs to deal with Cauldron.
"I guess so."
>>109773Iron is indeed stubborn.
>>109774>>109775>>109776Skies just keeps her hooves on the table, with an edited soon partly of annoyance, but also with that vindictive smile of hers
>>109777 (checked)
Iron simply looks at her, not really bothered by it.
"Hi."
>>109778I don't blame you. Arguments of any kind are mentally draining.
>>109777>>109777(Checked)
i think im gonna head to bed i woke up pretty early this morning. Goodnight Frens
Actually no, it’s not enough
>>109775“I didn’t go thorough all I have gone through, just to be casually disrespected by some day laborer the deputy working under me has hired. I am your boss here. If you do not like that, then kindly fuck off to whatever dirt mound you crawled out of. But I will not be spoken to that way, nor will you speak to me in such a way with out consequence”
\r
>>109782I don't blame you.Iron nods, looking her straight in the eyes with a neutral expression
"I am your humble servant to serve the Black Hooves by any means necessary. I am at your mercy."
>>109783And now, it is Skies turn to be dumbfounded
She just gives a single nod, with an expression about as if she were walking along a plank to enter a boat, then the boat pulls out at the end of the plant and her feet fall to the water
>>109784Dark Star pets her.
>>109785*poner is pet*
She is not as willing to cuddle as before, nor does she move into him, nor close her eyes
>>109784He plants his head on the table, chin on its wooden texture, closing his eyes, awaiting any punishment she has in store.
"You are in command of my fate. Do what you must."
>>109786ok now im really going to sleep
>>109787“So... so long as you understand”
>>109790Iron raises his head up, and nods again.
"I understand."
>>109790>>109791"Are we good now?"
>>109794He nods at Dark Star.
>>109794“Yes,” she answers through gritted teeth and evidently taking some offense at the question
>>109791“Alright. Let’s proceed.”
>>109794>>109795>>109798Silver is at least glad that things are...somewhat...back to normal.
>>109798>>109794He nods at Skies, later looking at Dark Star for what the plan is.
>>109799He does send a pat on Silver's head as a sort of apology.
>>109798"Fantastic,Mr.Glass! Another Round!"
>>109795"Good. Did you have prior business? or did you want to head down to the docks?"
>>109799Dark Star makes eye contact with silver, he raises his eyebrows at the scene that was just made in the bar.
>>109802Silver's eyes close as he enjoys the nice pat.
>>109803Silver can only shrug after that whole debacle.
>>109803Iron ponders it for a bit.
"I have something later, but I think it can wait until later into the night. I am ready to start."
"Well... if you figure you need any kind of weapons, armor, equipment, or really anything, now is the time to get it"
>>109811Iron cocks his head.
"How much armor, weapons and equipment can we even carry?"
>>109811"Yea i actually needed to pick up some special shotgun shells."
>>109816She nods
"Do you have anything quieter?"
>>109813"I... guess that is our answer"
>>109817"No, i was thinking about getting a bow. it would be a better option for this time."
>>109817"I do not think I can take anything without blowing our cover, so it is back to hooves and coat only."
>>109819"Now that's not a bad idea" she says, placing a hoof to her chin"
>>109820"Well, maybe not thick armor. But thinner and lighter levels of armor might be hidden underneath a robe or trench coat"
>>109822Iron hums.
"I suppose I can ask for some of this thin armor, as well as this 'trench coat' you are advising."
>>109822"I've never used one before. im sure its not that difficult."
>>109823“Yes, it may be worth looking into”
>>109824Resists temptation to deny Dark Star proficiency in bows
>>109826He nods.
"Now, is there any places where I can find these things at this hour or are allowed to borrow some from your faction?"
>>109805>>109826>>109827"Anypony ever used a bow before?"
>>109828Iron shakes his head.
"My tribe does not use them. At most they use slings or simply buck rocks against anything that is too fast."
>>109828"Once. I could not get hang of it. Though there might be hoofbook for archers in some local bookstore."
>>109830"I'll probably check, i needed to go to a book store anyway."
I swear, it's coming SoonTM
>>109827"There may be, yes"
>>109828"I trained with one when I was a filly"
>>109834I think I'm free to play today.
>>109834Iron nods, but as he pats his body for the bit pouch, he remembers it being left at Cauldron's house.
(Should I go back now or do this part of the mission first?)
He hopes the Gods give out the answer to him.
>>109834"Wow, what other weapons can you use?"
He puts his foreleg around her.
>>109836Uh
>>109837"Well.... they trained us for use in the bow, mostly shorter bows, swords, short swords, various knives, javelins, and most of all in the spear. I later learned how to work lighter crossbows, breach action rifles, and even the submachine gun. And of course my favorite, the pistol"
>>109838With the gods' silence, he has to choose himself.
"A scouting mission does not need a lot of armor. I think I will be fine with my current inventory."
>>109839"The question is, can you get away with just a scouting mission?"
>>109840"that's why i've been hoping brie would show up."
>>109840Iron nods.
"I suppose I can, but it will be a long time of healing afterwards if it goes sour and we have to either retreat or fight."
>>109841Iron is a bit confused, since he has a rogue marefriend in front of him.
How much is Skies' sneak attack damage again?
>>109842"The danger is always that they will not be there when we return"
As a level 5 rogue? 2d6. As a level 5 rogue, level 1 assassin? 3d6
>>109843Iron nods again.
"I am afraid I do not have any sort of currency on me, and fetching it could take a long time."
As a fifth level rouge, Skies already has 3d6 Sneak Attack Damage, so the extra assassin level if it's there adds it up to 4d6. Just something worth mentioning.
https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Rogue
>>109844"How much would it cost?"
>>109845Iron shrugs.
"I have no idea. Never used these thin armors. Perhaps from 5 to 200 bits?"
>>109845>>109846"Whatever it costs, I will pay for it."
>>109847Iron is a bit uneasy over Silver's charitable hoof.
"Are you sure? I know it is a small price, but I could be wrong, costing a lot more than expected."
>>109847>>109848"i'll cover half."
>>109849This does not ease Iron's unease.
>>109848Silver waves it off. "I am absolutely sure. Do not worry about it."
>>109849"I will not stop you if that is what you want, but it will not be necessary. I still need to pay you back for helping me purchase this armor...actually..." Silver reaches in his bags, pulling out a small roll of notes which total 300 Bits. "Here, take this before I forget. It should be enough to pay you back in full, as well as something for you to treat Skies with later."
>>109851"Thanks. i had forgotten about that. i'll still be covering half though."
He slides the notes into his bag.
>>109852Silver nods. "I do not like leaving debts behind, be it in money or blood. It is small weight off my chest."
>>109851Iron scratches his hoof.
(What are these two planning?)
>>109838"What do you like about pistols?"
>>109853"that's quite honorable."
>>109857He smiles. "Thank you."
>>109859Oh shit, the bat!
While Brie has been resting in the cabin, Onyx and Spark have returned. Onyx looks a bit like pinkie pie in Yakkity Sax, drained of what little color he has. He carries not one, or two, but three separate ponies who look petrified and themselves drained. Spark follows behind with two
changelings wearing military uniforms that are tattered, and at least one of them is burned. Both are wounded. Spark leads them off to a bedroom and locks the door.
There is a sticky note on Brie’s head that says “translator needed”
>>109863"Oh dear, what have you gotten yourselves into this time?"
>>109864I'm here if you go into the bedroom. Not sure if the bartender is though.
>>109864This is what happens when you leave the Spark Rock to it’s own devices
Onyx is pretty seriously wounded but bandaged, and greedily hogging the only supply of alcohol in the cabin, there is a fourth pony - a small bright red colt whose coat has thoroughly dulled - who is still about, and thankfully was kept away from the prisoners. There are two stallions and a mare laying on the ground on their backs, looking stiff and forelegs crosses over their chests, two of them with their eyes wide open. They are laid next to the fire. Spark has brought at least one bed into this room, evidently intending for every pony to sleep in there together. Meanwhile, the bedroom has been entirely surrendered to the prisoners, who speak only Wechselbalg
>>109865Barely
>>109864"Tartarus in a hoofbag"
>>109867Brie stands there for a moment with his mouth agape. "Whatever do we do with them? What has happened?"
>>109868"Those bucking bugs that you insisted we help"
>>109869"I expressly did not agree to anything that might get us killed in the manner that is apparent. The venture I am enacting would have resulted in far more grievous injuries, and out of sight."
>>109857“Small enough to conceal or fly with. They pack quite a lunch, and also have a great intimidation factor”
>>109870It’s probably worth mentioning that the two little nymphs are not present
>>109870Spark is evidently in the other room with the prisoners
>>109872"AND WHERE ARE KERR AND WESLEY??"
>>109875Either they were left in the back of the wagon, have wondered off, or were taken by a bear
>>109875Inside voice, please.
>>109877>>109876"The lings, where are THEY?"
>>109879"Probably in the wagon"
>>109880Brie storms off toward the wagon muttering something
>>109875>>109877>>109879This is golden
>>109881Outside, the full moon glows down, there is a slight, cold breeze, the ground is covered in snow and it’s not too far below freezing. The night is mostly quite besides some insect noises. Speaking of insect noises....
The car is parked unglamorously a bit diagonally, carelessly left to itself. There is a loud cicada like sound coming from it until Brie comes much closer. When Brie opens the door, there is nothing visible at first. Then from a shadow further in the cart, first Wesley in his Pegasus form, then Kerr in his bat pony form, come towards Brie at the open door of the cart, each abreast of the other. Both are shivering, and look cold and miserable
>>109882"Was machst du Jungetiere hier? GET INSIDE SIE Schwuchteln!!"
>>109884They look more than s little startled, and are shivering. They hop into the ground, and their hooves sink a couple inches into what they have to assume is volcanic ash from a nearby active volcano. They are worried for a moment, but try hooping through it towards the cabin, with Wesley tripping and face planting into the snow, before getting up and walking back to the cabin
>>109885"Was hast du dir dabei gedacht???" Brie chides, ushering the lings into the cabin. "Und wo sind deine Mäntel? Sie hätten dich wärmer gehalten als du jetzt bist!"
>>109887His snout covered in snow, Wesley retorts
“Die Ponys haben uns dort eingesperrt”
Kerr rushes forward past Wesley, towards the heated building. He gives a retort if his own
“Das hilft nicht kaltblütig zu sein”
The little Pegasus and bat pony colt enter through the door of the cabin, and meet the dulled-grey Earth pony colt inside, who sees two new colts of around his age entering
“Hello. Who are you? Where did you come from?”
He looks past them and outside
“Is that your dog outside?”
The two little colts cannot respond, but Wesley smiles mutely and timidly, while Kerr has an expression midway between shock and annoyance
\r
>>109892The little colt looks past the colts outside, towards the car. A large black dog.... a lab, maybe - sniffs around the cart
>>109893"Wenn dies jemandes Hund ist, sagen Sie es jetzt"
>>109895Wesley:
”Dieser Hund ist schon eine Weile draußen und herum”
Kerr:
“Ich glaube, ich habe ihn in der Stadt gesehen. Ich weiß nicht, ob er uns gefolgt ist.”
The little colt is startled by this alien language
“What is going on? Why are you speaking like that?”
>>109896"Entspann dich, wir bringen ihn bald um"
"What are you talking about? Surely I don't need to remind you where you are?"
>>109898The little colt looks up, afraid and confused, and bites his lip. He either does not understand Brie, or understands him too well
“Uh. Uh. Okay....”
>>109899"Don't worry, you will overwhemingly not be harmed or maligned." Brie announces with an unconvincing smile
>>109902The colt gives Brie a scared look that implies that he is not wholly convinced of Brie’s claim. The other three ponies are still unconscious if they are alive, and Kerr and Wesley are already scurrying over to the fire, walking over the petrified bodies to place themselves closer.
Spark is missing from the room
>>109904Oh gawd
"Where's Sparks?"
>>109904>>109902"Hey! Be nicer to the kid"
>>109905"No clue"
>>109905Spark was seen removing himself from the room by placing himself in the room with the prisoner changelings. So Spark is either watching over them, is lying on the ground next to broken windows, or is being wrapped in silk
>>109907The colt looks over to Onyx, who he quickly runs towards, and sits himself beside the couch where onyx is laying
>>109907"What? I told them they wouldn't be harmed, what else should I say?"
>>109909Brie face-hoofs
"This really isn't the time to wander off on 'things',...."
>>109909Onyx looks at the colt and slowly blinks-
>>109910before looking at brie with a blank expression
>>109910What isn't trustworthy about Brie's smile?
Anyways, Spark is off in the bedroom. With the Changelings.
In the bedroom with the bugs>>109911The colt is staying next to Onyx in a way almost like a dog startled by New Years Eve fireworks. He looks up to Onyx
>>109912Brie is distracted. The bugs can have their way.
>Brie's SmileIndeed, there should be a RULE goddammit
>coltFine, he can be a scaredy pants
>>109912Onyx pats the colt's head before adrssing brie
>>109913"So, now what is you
master plan?"
>>109915"We open an orphanage."
>>109918"Oh yeah we're just gonna....
WE'RE GOING TO WHAT?"
>>109919>>109918Time to start those anime vibes.
[3d20 = 38]>>109913Well, brie leaves Spark to the bedroom while Kerr and Wesley sit by the fire, trying to regain heat.
>>109915Poner's head is pat
He doesn't feel too cold, but his ears go down a little, as he is relieved
>>109919"Did I stutter? Its perfect. On the one hand we draw resources to us, on the other hand we bolster the resources we have. What's the problem?"
>>109923"For one, I am NOT staying here that long"
>>109924"Neither am I, this is a venture for when we're back in Baltimare"
>>109925"I guess that's a relief. But seriously? an orphanage?"
>>109926"Yes, an orphanage." Brie gives slight emphasis as though it should be obvious.
>>109921>>109913>the bugs can have their wayWell, since Spark is a lost cause, he will try to fix this alone for now.
Spark searches the room for means to secure the bugs, in case they decide to escape or overtake the lone pony.
>>109930>his first action is a stealth action
>>109930I mean.... bedsheets? There might be rope in the other room
>>109933Dark Star drinks his whiskey
>>109933Darn it.
Spark thinks for a moment.
>>109926Spark opens the door for a moment, just enough to communicate.
"Hey Onyx! Do you see any rope there? Also, has the bat woken up yet?"
>>109938"What the hell did you ponies do?!?"
>>109938"Negative, but the bat is up"
>>109936Silver looks like he doesn't know anymore if he should order another drink for himself or hold out for the mission. The whiskey Dark Star is enjoying looks damn good right now to the unicorn.
>>109942"Want another? im buying."
>>109942>>109936Skies takes another sip of her hopefully new drink
Then she asks
“What will you do if they only congregate tonight?”
>>109940"Just because you are a bat doesn't mean you can exclude yourself from pony kind when it is convenient. We had a bit of an issue from ARMED CHANGELING SOLDIERS. Perhaps you heard the gunfire?"
>>109941"Good to hear. Get him in here. I got some questions for these two."
>>109948"Capture one of theier lackys and get the information out of him."
He Grins
>>109949Sighs observably "No, I did NOT hear the gunfire,...."
>>109949>>109940"Hey bats for brains, Spark-plug wants to see you. In there"
he points with a hoof
>>109952"Well, we got changelings in here that surrendered from our shootout. Can you help me talk to them? They could help us get through this place one way or another."
>>109947"...yes please."
>>109948"It is only as likely as them
not congregating tonight. But, if that is case, then we will observe, and wait. This is obviously ongoing operation by them. They will be back, if not tomorrow, then some day very soon."
>>109956"Lead the way,...." He sounds less than enthusiastic
>>109958Spark hooves the bat into the bedroom.
"I don't know why you are in a bad mood. We might just have our ticket through the changeling patrols here. If they can provide maps of patrol patterns or maybe areas we can better slip through, we might just make it out of this place alive."
>>109957>>109948>>109951"My hooves are perfectly capable of taking prisoners without medical aid, so we are good on that front."
>>109962"We already HAVE a ticket through all the changeling patrols HERE." Brie brandishes the authorization to move with weapons.
>>109966"You really think that thing is going to work the whole way? There is bound to be a limit a pony can freely move before they halt us for possible terroristic plots or just decide it is our turn to be fed upon. We need a plan B."
>>109948yeah its new dark star ordered a new round a few turns ago
>>109964"Fantastic!"
>>109957"get what ever you would like."
>>109970Silver orders himself a whiskey. "So, you
look like zebra. Can you
act like zebra?"
>>109969e_e
"We are the terroristic plot, except we're on the changeling's side."
>>109973"Wha da buck yo pickle head ass say to me zigga?"
>>109975"So they are going to just trust ponies to waltz up to their HQ to drop off some foals and be on our way just because we had you speak some changeling tongue? Unless you convinced them of something I am not aware of..."
>>109976It's like Dark Star found the perfect confusion button for the unicorn.
>>109975Onyx's voice comes from the other side of the door
"THE CHANGELING'S SIDE?"
>>109976Iron's face contorts into disgust yet again.
(I never heard Cauldron talking like that.)
"Are you sure they talk like that, Dark Star?"
>>109982"...Well, perhaps you know more about how zebras talk here in Baltimare than I do, but I do not think I have ever heard zebra talk like that."
>>109983"Regardless, ask them why they attacked and why they surrendered. I'm curious."
>>109988>>109987"Have Either of You Ever been forced to live with ziggers on the streets? i have."
>>109992Iron seems unconvinced, but relents yet again.
"If you say it works, it works."
>>109990Addressing the force/group indicated
"Warum hast du angegriffen?"
>>109951She nods, again with her hoof at her chin
"That could work, again let's just hope they are still there afterwards"
>>109957"Alright... let's hope no lasting harm is
done"
>>109966>>109962The following scene greets Brie when he enters the bedroom
It's a fairly small bedroom, wider than it is futher across, with at least one bunk bed against the wall, a couple windows that are partly iced over, and a missing bed. Simple wood floor, walls, and ceiling, giving the whole room a homogeneous look and nothing decorating the room besides the single remaining bunk bed, making it look pretty bare
The Changelings:
There are two of them, staring right at Brie and Spark
The left one has blue green eyes and a
very degraded uniform that is mostly burnt. His carapace looks completely messed up, with deep black burns, dried blood, and parts of his carapace are torn because of presumably a lack of water as it wrinkles together. His wings are shriveled likewise, there is no way that pony is going to fly tonight. He still wears his Schwarmhelm helmet, which also has burns reducing some of the paint of it. Though he retains both eyes, one of them is swollen, and he keeps his lid half closed, as that eye has been damaged. It looks like it is leaking fluid. The black body - blacker from the burns - does at least have a slight bulge around the belly, so at least he has eaten very recently.
The second Changeling is to the right. His left set of hooves are poised forward in a manner that may not bring much comfort to his captors, like he is preparing to spring forward. This is likewise a fully grown drone, in a tattered, worn, and more than a little torn field grey military uniform, stained brown by mud - hopefully mud - over time. In the center of his chitinous barrel, his uniform is completely torn, and there is a bandage overtop made hastily from the cotton bandage of a first aid kit. This bandage has a bit of a blue stain to it, and this portion of its body looks collapsed in, like his whole exoskeleton has partly collapsed in in the middle. he takes short, fairly labored breathes, and sounds like he is in pain from wheezing. His eyes are an alconsuming blue. A deep blue, it looks kind of like a shallow pond late at night, where a lattern has lit up underneath it, as a point in each eye is a little brighter than the rest, getting darker the further it goes from the center. His face is unscathed. He too, wears the steel helmet. It's a bit worn and some paint has come off, but it looks like a better condition than the other
>>109996"i just had an odd feeling, perhaps after we finish this round of drinks we should go check it out."
>>109996"Err... I wish I knew more about fixing bugs up."
>>110004"If you say so." Silver very quickly downs the rest of his whiskey in one go, making a face and straining against the sudden strong burn in his throat. "Eugh...I hate doing that..."
>>110004Iron looks at his drink.
"Right. I forgot I had this."
He sips it all up but coughs slightly over the taste.
(Ugh, I hate these.)
>>109995Blue Eyes is the first to respond, with a look of confusion. His voice is strange even for the standards of a Changeling, like he;s out of breath
"Sie sprechen Wechselbalg?"
Then, the burth blue-green eyed drone answers, and he answers in full, stopping at points as if to edit his remarks in real time
"Wir waren hungrig. Wir wurden vor einigen Monaten von unserer Gruppe getrennt und wollten nicht zurück. Wir fanden diese Hütte hier im Wald und sie hatte ein paar Ponys ..."
He looks as if he has more to say on this point, but he stops
"Siebenhundertvierundfünfzig und Achthundertneunundfünfzig hörten Geräusche. Sie gingen nachforschen, und es war dieses verdammte schwarze Pony. Er hat beide getötet. Wir haben uns als Schafe verkleidet, um zu entkommen, aber sie kamen schließlich zurück und fanden unsere seidene Beute ... sie fanden die Ponys. Wir griffen an und das Einhorn verbrannte mich, während mein Kamerad aufgespießt wurde"
>>110014>Sie sprechen WechselbalgBrie rolls his eyes "ja ich spreche"
>>110014"Das ist verrückt"
>>110017"What is he saying?"
>>110020"Der erste sagte "We were hungry. We were separated from our group a few months ago and did not want to go back. We found this cabin here in the woods and she had a few ponies." der zweite sagte "Seven hundred fifty-four and eight hundred fifty-one heard noises. They went investigate, and it was that damn black pony. He killed both. We disguised ourselves as sheep to escape, but they finally came back and found our silken prey ... they found the ponies. We attacked and the unicorn burned me while my comrade was being impaled" Brie says dryly.
>>110000Checked, kek, and why that response?
>>110017Blue eyes moves back, locking his legs into position. Like he’s startled, but somehow more comfortable
“Bust du ein Wechselbalg?”
Blue Green adds his own:
“Wir waren aus neunzigster Infanterie. Wir wurden getrennt, als die Crystal-Ponys angegriffen wurden.”
>>110024>Bust du ein Wechselbalg"Nein, ich bin nur eine dumme Fledermaus mit mehr Verstand als Verstand"
>Blue green"Ich weiß nichts über Kristallponys oder Infiltration. Ich bin hier auf einer Mission der Rache."
>>110023"Damn it. Tell them I am sorry for their loss."
>>110023Hey hey! He's not black, he's crystal-equestrian!
>>109982>>109976Blue Skies looks at Dark Stat strangely
>>109970She drinks it
>>109987“I mean.... I haven’t really lived in Baltimare very long”
>>110026“Oh... okay.”
It is Brie’s answer to Blue Eyes that really let’s him feel it is okay to continue
“Bitte, wir sind Deserteure. Wir sind aus dem Bienenstock von Phalantine, und wir wurden gezwungen, der Hegemonie zu dienen, als unser Bienenstock annektiert wurde. Wir haben keine Streitigkeiten mit Ponys oder Equestria, die über unsere Ernährungsbedürfnisse hinausgehen. Wir wollen keine Ponys verletzen, es sei denn, wir müssen uns selbst verteidigen oder hungern. Wir sind in der Hegemonie nicht willkommen und streifen schon lange durch die Wälder.”
>>110032Uh.....
>>110029"Careful, you might start liking them," Brie chides.
>>110033Iron shrugs.
"I hope he is right. I do not want needless metal wounds on me for riling up zebras against us."
>>110034"Kind of hard not to feel pity on them. Must have been all of my classes in Harmony. Still, they shot at us. I won't feel sorry for lighting him on fire for it."
>>110038Only three of them shot at Spark and Onyx. One of them love-drained Onyx but did not have a weapon
>>110034I’m not sure how I feel about this
>>110041I would still classify it as an attack as far as a pony would know.
And you should feel happy knowing that it hurts to combat your enemies. It's not an xp + gold sack.
"Oh quit yer crying, all of you! Oh boo hoo, I don't remember the first time I tieded mine own hoof-laces all by myselfs!" Brie says cutely and mockingly "When you're done, there's business to handle."
>>110047"Can you at least tell them I understand now?"
>>110051Brie says to the changelings: Alles, was Sie tun müssen, um sich von Ihrem Karapize zu lösen, tun Sie es jetzt.
"Yes."
>>110047*cries more*
Oh..... okay
>>110032The colt looks up to Onyx
“Where did you come from?”
He asks
>>110055Quit yer cryin GM
>>110054With a flash of green light, the drones before Brie appear to be replaced with two sheep of equal size
>>110057Okay...
>>110058>>110057"Umm.... why did they change?"
>>110055"The crystal empire... One of the most beautiful places in Equestria. The architecture is just crystals and carved stone as far as the eye can see..."
Onyx stares off into space, seeming to forget about the colt.
"I wish I could go back"
>>110058"What the fuggg,...."
>>110066Trip dubs of crying! Its a cryin shame!
Is onyx gonna have to start crying in memory of his home that he doesn't know if he'll return to?
>>110072Thanos meme when?
>>110073>>110072Click your hooves to bring it back.
>>110062He places his little hooves on the couch next to Onyx
“That sounds beautiful. I wish I had been there. I’ve never been very far from the farm. The furthest I’ve been is to see the fair over in Whinnyapolis. We had Crystal Empire soldiers visit us during the war though. They were nice. Dad gave them some potatoes”
>>110063>>110061“Haben Sie uns nicht gebeten, unsere Panzer zu verlieren?”
Should be “carapace”
>>110072Yes
>>110075But he's onyx... not ruby....
>clinks ruby together.>>110073>Did you do it?>Yes>What did it cost?>Hey GM! How many changelings did I kill?>>110078"Heh, I was a soldier myself one time... Maybe you can visit the empire sometime though. You're still young."
He pats the sofa, inviting him up.
>>110078>Haben Sie uns nicht gebeten, unsere Panzer zu verlierenUhm
"Did not you ask us to lose our tanks?"
Doesn't make sense
>>110081Oh, its supposed to be carapice
It still doesn't make sense e_e
>>110080Onyx has killed 2 changelings and contributed to killing Marecuse
>>110080The little formerly-ruby Earth pony joins onyx, both of their coats dulled
“I could.... but the Changelings don’t let us move around much. They don’t like us here in the woods either”
He wraps his tail around him, sits up, and looks at Onyx
“You were a soldier? For the Crystal Empire?”
>>110081Carapace. Apparently the German word for “carapace” is the sane as the word for “armor,” which in English is a synonymous for Tank
I feel like I’m living out a lecture I watched in a philosophy of language class when I visited the college I would later go to. It was a lecture about W. V. Quine’s theory if the Indeterminacy of Translation, and how one word can turn into something completely different in the course of translation.
>>110082Suffice it to say, the changelings misunderstood what Brie was trying to tell them
>>110088Spark boops a sheep.
>>110088Goddammit, I don't even know what Brie was trying to tell them!
>>110091It sounded to me that Brie was telling them to disguise themselves.
>>110088"Yep, I helped tug artillery and poked any pony that got too close and wanted to take out the artillery."
He pats the pony's head
"Well maybe I can get you out of here if you want to travel."
[1d20+3 = 8]>>110090“
HISS!”
It bites
>>110097"OW! You can't just turn into something fluffy and expect not to be booped! It's hard enough when you look like ponies!"
>>110091Brie told them
“All you have to do to get rid of your Karapize, do it now”
I think that means they need to disguise themselves
>>110100What is this meme you speak of?
>>110101They do not understand Spark. One of them blinks
>>110093He nods at Onyx, maybe just a tad bit disappointed
Until that last part
“Get out of here? What is that?”
>>110104"You know, get you away from the bugs and out to see equestria"
>>110104>disguise themselvesYes, that's totally what I meant
>memeI was referencing the "I used to be a hero" skyrim meme
>>110109I used to be a rouge like you. then i took an arrow to the knee.
>>110109A Changeling briefly poofs back, and shows a leg entirely riddled with holes that let you see all the way through to the other side
>>110106He sits there, anxious but moving his tail
“ I don’t know. I would like to go see things, and I want to get away from the changelings. But there is my farm and my older brother, and my family farm”
>>110112"Well... You could always come back.... or take them with you.... Or start a new farm..."
>>110118“Was willst du?” asks Blue Eyes... or at least that’s probably blue eyes
>>110115“I... I can? Are you sure?”
>>110111Check'd
>>110120"Sure, I don't see why you couldn't"
>>110123“So we could take my brother. What about my parents. Are you sure we could come back?”
The pony’s tail moves more, and there seems to be more energy in the dulled grey colt
>>110120Begging your pardon, OOC, but I don't even know what the conflict at hand IS. Last
I checked, we made negotiations with the changelings and our papers were approved. I literally don't know what the fuck is going on.
>>110127"I'm sure they could come, and it wouldn't be too hard to bring you back I'm sure."
>>110130Brie has made negotiations with the government of the Changeling Hegemony. These are are group of rogue changelings that deserted from the military and were roaming the forest, and who got in a battle and lost with Spark and Onyx after doing a lot of harm on a small civilian group, including cocooning three ponies. Spark has kept them prisoner in the bedroom. They neither know what negotiations Brie made with the Hegemony, nor would it really matter to them, as they are no longer affiliated
>>110131“Yay! Where could you take me?”
>>110120"Für den Anfang keine Schlampe sein!!"
>>110135“Aber.... Okay”
Blue green tilts his head down, then looks back up
>>110137"Willst du sterben Dann steh auf!"
>>110139"Möchtest du beten? Dann kämpfe!!"
>>110139>>110141"Umm... there sure is a lot of yelling going on... is everything ok?"
>>110139They get up
>>110141“Was?”
They looks scared and confused
>>110146"Calm down..."
>>110141"What are you telling them?"
>>110146Goddamn right they're scared and confused.
"I don't know where you come from. I don't know what or for whom you fight. I don't even claim to be he or that which you fight for."
>>110147Shhh, it will be fine. Or they'll kill us. ^_^
>>110146"Show me your mean face."
>>110134"Well there's Canterlot, the crystal empire... Lot's of places"
>>110150>>110150They change back into changelings, and pulls back a little with concerned and confused expressions from the alien language shouted at them. They say nothing
>>110152“But... the changelings have the Crystal Empire. The fascists have a Canterlot... how shall we go there? Will it be as pretty as it was?”
>>110157"It will be just as pretty, we'll just wait until the war is over."
>>110158“But... the war is over. We lost....”
Poner is sad now, and hangs his little head
>>110161"The war isn't over until every soldier quits. And I don't like the idea of bugs living in my home."
>>110150>>110157Spark pushes the bat out of the room and closes the door.
>>110165"Yeesh, I wasn't talking to the changelings,...."
>>110164Celestia bless Onyx Steel, a true Equestrian patriot.
I get the feeling Spec would like him, if they ever met.
>>110166"I'll let you come back in when you are ready to translate for me again."
Spark sighs.
"Let's just calm down for a little bit."
>>110164He wags his tail more
“Fighting back?”
>>110169D’aww
>>110150Oh I see
>>110169this! he needs a medal
>>110171"If its one at a time, there'll be no problem. I can translate simple welchselbalg, but convoluted phrases and dialogues escape me."
>>110174"Of course. I know I can't be the only one."
>>110169>>110178You guuuys
>>110179Spark is tempted to complain about how he found 'I understand you now' a convoluted phrase, but refrains.
"It's ok. Right now they are on edge and they need to calm down before we continue."
>>110181"Then stop putting them in your crazy bug sex-slave dungeon"
(Am I kidding?)
(of course I am, but imagine if I wasn't)
>>110180“But how can I know you’ll win?”
>>110183"This can hardly be considered a dungeon. They are in a room in a building with one pony watching them. I'm trying to get them to either leave peacefully or help us with our goal."
>>110185 Wanna hear something funny?Spork Shimmer
And discovered today that the lore of South East Equestria in EAW got fucked with more today.
Great
>>110190Big oof. Hopefully no plans were derailed.
>>110190Also big oof. I'll check what they've done in a sec, but for now, any summaries?
>>110193In the far south, the area has gone from kind of Mexican to super Mexican. Whereas before there would be Tenochitlan, Saltmane coast, Temple, the Forbidden Jungle, and the East Forbidden Jungle, now it is Tenoctictlan, weird nahuatl name I can’t spell or pronounce, weird nahuatl name I can’t spell or pronounce, weird nahuatl name I can’t spell or pronounce, and weird nahuatl name I can’t spell or pronounce. It’s like going from my hometown, where 30% of the population was Mexican, to where I live now, where 92% of the population is Mexican. Seriously, every single state south of dusk-away and East of Stableside (the entire southeast) now has a name that is Nahuatl or Mayan and is 100% impossible for an Indi-European language speaker to spell or pronounce. Maybe it’s a plus, but I noticed that the pun I use, “neighuatl,” is now used in the game as well.
In the Baltimare Socialist Republic, there is now a split between the anarchist “libertarian socialists,” and the Communists who have not gone full retard. Over in Las Pegasus, a crime syndicate can take over. That nation is not playable, but I know that they have the option to seek support from their own version of the Blackhooves. I’m hoping it will be an Objectivist-Ayn Randian faction there. Anyways it looks good for Spectral Streak.
And in the Confederation of Southern States.... we have reach the End of History. Just look at pic related
\r
>>110194Huh...well, whaddya know...
Also, you sure you mean Spectral Streak? He was the soldier. Silver Rain was the Las Pegasus gangster.
>>110194I sure hope they don't travel too far in that Confederacy road. Holy Hecc, that looks like it's going to end in a dumpster fire.
Seems Iron is mayan-like now, too.
Still, congratulations for Silver Rain's presence to be so impactful he actually created a gang in the actual game. Kudos.
>>110195Nigger, I don’t know what
my own characters are named, and I often have to stop the game for like 30 minutes to go back and try to find it and wait for my laptop to load up several threads so I can search them. Be grateful I can remember one of their names
>>110196>Confederacy roadTHERE ARE NO BRAKES ON THE STATES RIGHTS TRAIN. Seriously, what’s the issue? We already have like 4 Nazi factions, two Bolshevik factions, and fucking IngSoc from 1984, we can add our Southern Heritage.
I’ve thought of Iron as more like the Comanche Indian, but I guess that’s a whole other story
>>110197Hey, I'm not dissing, I know how hard it can be to maintain a list of names in your mind. I forget names of people I meet in real life all the damn time.
>>110197I have a feeling it will turn into some sort of le epic satire kind of nation, but it's only me and my paranoia.
I'm rather surprised you considered Iron as an indian, but looking at the history, it's kinda funny.
Through horses, the Comanches expelled the Apaches. I love that small tidbit.
>>110199I mean... what were you going for? A Brazilian Amazonian injun tribe?
All I can say about the confederacy is... Pony Jefferson Davis. My life is complete
>>110200Honestly, just went for native boi from the description at the start.
It actually feels right for him to become one. Perhaps a climatic battles between Hoof's tribe and Buck's tribe could have been won through their horse power!
>There’s a fucking Griffin among the generals in the Baltimare Republic
>>110202So, you said that there was a Communist faction in the Baltimare Republic that wasn't yet full retard. What other Communist factions are similar to them? Are they like the Longswordian Partisans, the Stalliongrader Progressives, or the Feathesian National Bolsheviks?
>>110204Oh God, I barely know. I haven’t seen much of it, but they look to me like that structural-hierarchical version of Communist that we seen in Stalliongrad or the Soviet Union
>>110205Seems like that hasn't entirely changed from before, then.
>>110206The secret is that they actually have food to distribute, unlike other commie nations.
>>110208Still not as good as the Longswordian Partisans, tho.
>>110209I guess their longswords are longer than most.cue laugh track
Now I'm left wondering if the story in the final part of the dossier actually adds anything, or it is just superfluous information
>>110209The Longsword Partisans shouldn't be Communists, in my opinion
>>110212I honestly have no idea. I only vaguely remember they always do a civil war between eachother at the beginning and nothing else.
As for the final dossier part, what was meant to be added in broad strokes?
>>110213Do you mean what was the Dossier intended to add? Mostly the history of the place, how it came to the interest of law enforcement, why so little has been done, why it is important now, why a proper law enforcement response has not already been levied, the periods of most activity, and some characters
>>110214Yes.
Hm, it seems necessary in order to perhaps emphatize for the workers/organizers, solidify the police's lack of response to blatantly illegal activities and present some sort of urgency to the matter.
Simply put, it would strengthen PC motivation to stop this, but also allow for some diplomacy if Silver wants to.
Because let's be honest, Dark Star and Iron are not the understanding type.I'd say you go for it.
>>110215>It has come down to Silver for diplomacyBetter get working on my conversational skills.
>>110212Agreed. Seems like the only reasons they were made Communist is because Harmonists aren't very well known for fighting, and there were already Non-aligned and Fascist factions in the civil war. Other than that, there's only very flimsy connections between them and the ideology, and they even draw attention to it in the "Internationalism" focus where they mention that the partisans aren't as bloodthirsty as other Communists, and how they wish to preserve their faith and culture.
>>110216Skies wouldn't really consider talking to these ponies unless she gets to kill them later in order to stop them forever and win.
Dark Star would mainly kill everything for seeing them as ponies who took his mother and life.
Iron would not really care for anything, except possibly the zebra illegals since he's courting one.
Silver's the only one who would even want to diplomacy.
>>110217Disclaimer: Iron knows Cauldron is a legal citizen due to her father being an Equestrian Admiral, it's more like he wouldn't kill or punch zebras willy nilly in fear of losing reputation with her.
>>110218I'm not sure how much she'd care about Iron defending himself by knocking some random zeebs the fuck out, but hey, he does him.
>>110219See, I fear Dark Star may present some more... genocidal ideas in the mission.
A possibility both you and me should take into account.
>>110220Not sure if he'd do so if it would sabotage his mission. Still, Silver's going to give him a couple tips on avoiding getting into fights in that kind of location once play resumes.
>>110221I sure hope that all of the illegals are needed, then.
Perhaps Skies would control the urge, maybe.
>>110222Oh, I imagine she'll just be
waiting to unleash all her rage on the first fool that tries to mug us.
>>110223Well, true, but I mean she'll control Dark Star's urges of non-pony blood spilling.
>>110224Oh, that. Probably, since she's Dark Star's handler and all that.
>>110220>>110224I'm still surprised no one wanted to kill the surrendering Changelings
https://youtu.be/I7dmcHoODZI?t=28
>>110226I suppose they weren't much of a threat to consider them killed, especially after Chonyx the Chadstal Pony merely stared at both of them, their legs giving out because of it.
I have a backup character who would be more interested in doing that. Also a mind magic one (Psion) she is.
Also, I would recommend bringing along at least one NPC, preferably one that can fill a role the remainder of the party cannot
>>110227>Me dealing with psionics as a game mechanichttps://youtu.be/LGL933C0O-o?t=157
>>110228Really not that different with magic, honestly. Simple RPG stuff of 'use spell' costing you a secondary spell meter instead of limited spell slots per day. Way easier to manage on both sides.
In fact, most of them have annoying mind-affecting flag that limits the power's versatility.
To top it all off, it's SRD, too. No homebrew here.
>>110226Just because you want to do it doesn't always mean you should.
>>110228You mean for our group?
>>110234For the quest, yes. The Baltimare group
>>110234>>110236We honestly don't know any spellcasters to ask.
This is why I'm presenting the magic character.
>>110239There's also a sneaky type and a healer among who we would need. Blue Skies can fill out the sneak roll, and, if she can be convinced to help, Cauldron and her potions can help for the healer role. Silver can pay her if she requires it.
>>110243>sneaky type: SkiesAs expected.
>Healer: CauldronA nice offering of perhaps 1000 bits could do it. It should cover the potion expenses.
>>110245Silver can do that.
>>110245I’m not certain I’d trust Silver with my Waifu, but okay
>>110252*frowns in your general direction*
>>110252That's why Iron'd be escorting him to the other tavern to avoid paranoid waifu stealing.
I honestly don't know any other healers, and Silver's church acquaintance wouldn't want to do Black Hooves work.Also rack in on that money for gang-free independence, bby!Or a potionmaster mademare, whichever works better/makes her happy.>>110253Perhaps I'll ask for 2500 bits. We do need have more party members who could get hurt.
>>110255Silver's probably gonna need another well paying job to be able to afford the home/guildhouse he'd want to purchase, but sure.
Also, seriously, Silver will NOT try to steal Iron's zeebfu. Far from it, he'd try to help him out. GM, if Silver does try to steal her, remember this post, and strike Silver down dead on the spot.
>>110259*Skies hugs the sad Zebra*
“It’s okay Darkie”
>>110262I trust you, but you're still getting the increased fee to contract her. There's still more ponies to heal than just Iron, and each potion costs quite a bit. 500 GP each if we go for cure medium wounds potions.Look in the bright side. You'll get more options from her the more money you give her!
>>110263Dark Star Hugs her back
Then finishes his Whiskey
"I Need to head to the weapon store."
>>110266Hopefully she sticks to Cure Light Wounds potions, or other types of potions of similar cost. 2,500 Bits is a lot for five (or less) healing potions.
>>110268"Alright"
I am totes going to release the third part of the dossier tonight. I know I've been saying that for a long time, but I actually mean it this time
>>110270Simply covering her expenses to ensure she gains something from this exchange.
I'll totally buy her magic item gifts later if the pay is good enough.
>>110273I understand, part of the reason I hope she sticks to cheaper potions. Well, that, and we'd simply have better options with cheaper potions.
Hey, maybe they'll come across some more gold bars. That'd be nice.
>>110273>>110276You guys do realize you could buy a house with 2.5k right?
>>110281Potions are hard work, Star. Take a glance at the price of potions.
>>110281Not in my game
Trying to deal with inflation is hard
>>110281No, but this is still my first and so far only game. I don't know how much most things cost. All I know is that Silver has 12,441 Bits and that it's the largest amount I've seen so far.
Are we up for continuing tonight?
>>11028775gp=750 irl dollars
>>110288Is Spark up for it?
>>110287Yes, Silver is swimming in money, as he received a huge pay out on a quest that lasted more than half a year
>>110290Actually maybe that's almost right, for a small house in the country
>>110289Try not to compare our currency with imaginary currency pls. It's going to halt the game's pace.
>>110287Don't mind him, use the SRD for the items actually in there to see how much they cost.
>>110293some other autist has calculated it already.
>>110295>>110293There are fourms dedicated to that kind of thing.
>>110285Silver suddenly looks over at Skies. "I suppose it might be silly asking you, but you have still been in Baltimare longer than I have. Do you have any idea what housing costs here?"
>>110292Compared to the ~750 he started with? Eeyup.
>>110299Iron does not like where this is going.
(Oh no.)
>>110299"Haha"
Skies starts laughing, and even slams a hoof on the table
"I don't pay for my drinks, I have never paid for a dinner (with money, anyways), and I don't pay for my housing"
>>110304Silver can only laugh and roll his eyes. "You do indeed have it made. Like I said, it was silly, so no big deal. I will find somepony else to ask that."
>>110301No idea why Iron would be worried about that, but okay.
>>110304I guess I'll see if the captive changelings are going to attack me since they are nervous.
>>110306Boring math that he doesn't care about~
OoOoOo~>>110304Iron can't help but snicker at her response.
>>110306Is the eye rolling a "please bitch" or what?>>110308They are still spooked by Brie yelling at them
>>110304Dark Star chuckles
>>110312More like an "Oh, you" or "Shoulda known" kind of eye roll. Nothing negative behind it.
>>110312Spark tries to signal to the changelings to calm down.
"Sorry about that. Let's just calm down. It's all ok."
Onyx pets the colt, wondering what to do next.
Fuck it, I'm'a post the first part. Maybe this will force me to complete it
As the trio sits together at the bar table, they have the chance to take a closer look at the last portion of the dossier, the portion that concerns the recent history of the structure in question, and how it came to the attention of the civil administration.
In 984 the East Baltimare Poorhouse came under criticism for poor working conditions, somewhat similarly to the laundry before it. Moreover, the site was failing to break even at a time when the city was already needing to contract bonds to cover the cost of expanding services. Thus enters Sweet Boek. Sweet Boek, now a fairly old unicorn, is the latest in the line of an old Baltimare Family dating back to the earliest settlement of the city by the Amstel Unicorns. As the family had controlled a number of farming interests, it controlled lands that were managed and later carefully sold, with Sweet Boek’s father in particular expanding the family wealth through careful investment. Though Sweet Boek was and is more academically inclined, he made an investment by exchanging the 33 Hoebuck site for a set of lots in the west city that the city intended to use to build a new school and fire station. The site reopened in 990 by being leased in part to multiple renters. It was around this time that the latest wave of immigration came into the city, and the site has since spent most of its history being leased out as cheap housing for those staying a length of time less than that normal for an apartment length, but more than would be appropriate for a hotel.
Trouble with the location began before the second coming of Nightmare Moon, with police who were called out to the site in 998 in reference to an aggravated assault reporting a fairly hostile response from those inhabiting the building. A structural change occurred to the building, where the subterranean floors, and also the uppermost floors were sectioned off to reduce the total size of the building, a change that began in the latest years of the operation of the poorhouse and was complete during its time as a set of leased units. The workshop portion had been leased to a separate interest as a shoe factory, while the middle portion was retained by the Hostel operating the dorms. In 1002 the shoe shop was transferred to a local Baltimare corporate interest, while the Hostel came under the control of an owner in Nova Griffonia in 1004. The neighborhood declined in quality over this period of time, and many police patrolling the area noted coming upon different groups of griffins and zebra on many occasions, which was no cause for alarm as it is in the nature of Hostels to become home to transients. These encounters were less on the road than where groups were seen on the side, or on those occasions officers or medical services came to the scene. Griffins inside looked on anxiously with the arrival of authorities, pressing them to leave even when their presence was essential, such as in the case of a call of medical help in 1005.
One of the most important interactions took place in 1006 when a public utilities worker investigating the portion of the property between the buildings and the water front, discovered what was found to be a mass grave. The mass grave, containing perhaps 130 skeletons of ponies, dated back at least 80 years to the time that 33 Hoebuck operated as an asylum for lost mares. The discovery of the site did cause the opening of an investigation into the handling of the asylum, but not of the present operations, given the prevalence in those days of a high infant morality rate for foals born to single mothers, the sleeping sickness, and various other diseases, as well as the high tendency of those who died while at the asylum, the poorhouse, or the earlier debtors prison, to be without families to claim the body. What did however, give cause for concern was the way in which the inhabitants of the buildings on the site reacted. Griffons would often give strange looks to the excavators, detectives, or urban archaeologists responding to the front part of the property, and said ponies were denied entrance into any part of the building, even for needs like water or bathroom usage, and griffons often tried to deny access to the waterfront altogether on certain days, general weekend days. Police were required to force entry on two separate occasions. Perhaps understandably, the number of residents encountered on the Hostel portion of the property seemed to decrease during the three week total period of investigation in which ponies were found in or around the site, and the area on the waterfront was abandoned altogether by anycreature using the hostel. The investigation confirmed what was known from the time of the city acquiring the poorhouse, which was that the structure included an underground portion dating back to the time of the old fort from the waterfront to the main structures, as stone was hit by excavating shovels.
At around this time, investigators on the property made contact with the actual lessee of the hostel, a suave white and grey feathered Griffon who introduced himself as Stormfeather Maakie, a businessgrif originally from Skyfall who had long operated a set of hotels in Nouvelle Aquellia. He expressed a concern that the negative press coverage and the excavation behind the hostel would scare away customers, and indeed there did seem to be a drop in activity during that period. However, the situation as a whole returned to normally after the investigation was concluded 22 days after the initial discovery.
>>110319The colt is pet. He still has this look of wonder in his eyes, thinking about whether this strong old crystal veteran really can make his dreams come true
>>110316They look at Spark confusedly, not understanding him
>>110313>>110315She resumes, smiling
"Well, let's take another look at what we are facing"
She opens the dossier, and reads what approximates
>>110321
>>110322Spark continues to try to calm them with soft, reasuring tones of voice.
>>110322"Seems as if that part of city is cursed to always have trouble in one form or another. Griffons seem to just be most recent cause of trouble." He scratches the underside of his muzzle. "That is griffon nature for you, however. It is sadly rare exception when griffons and ponies can live side-by-side without one group growing distrustful of other."
>>110322Iron raises an eyebrow.
"They sure sound like scaredy cats."
>>110326"You're damn right it is," Skies says, shaking her head
>>110328"heh heh, 'cause they're cats... But no. The cockroach runs from the light for a good reason, and it makes them that much harder to find and remove"
>>110324They are calmed somewhat
>>110333Iron nods.
"So this is why we are going undercover. No announcing we are from your faction to see what is going on, right?"
>>110321"this building has an impressive history. i feel i appreciate it more now."
>>110337"Correct."
>>110322"But that's enough about me and my crazy ideas, how about you kid?"
>>110333 (checked)
"I only hope my connection to Severyana is enough to let me blend in. It does seem griffons get along swimmingly with communists."
>>110343Iron raises an eyebrow.
"How do you know?"
>>110342Nope, Onyx isn't free yet
"Well I've just been attending grade school... and helping out on the farm. tell me more about these places we will visit!"
>>110337"We can..."
>>110339D'aww, thanks
There's more comming>>110343"Griffins don't really get along swimmingly with anything. The community may have changed significantly in that time"
>>110357Oh boy
"Well, there's Canterlot. With the palace of Celestia and Luna that can be toured.... Pleanty of fun things to do there."
>>110356>>110357"Okay,
compared to other groups, they get along better with communists than others."
I liked the dossier, too...
>>110360"And you will take me there? What if the fascists try to stop us?"
>>110357Iron shakes his head.
"It is not about we can or cannot, rather whether we should, and it does not sound like we should, unless we want to get barred from everywhere there without resorting to violence from what I understand on this paper thing."
>>110362"I wonder how would they react to natives?" he wonders aloud.
>>110364"As I said before, it is probably good idea we avoid any altercations with locals. I can patch up wounds, but I do not know any healing spells, nor do I have many healing potions."
>>110365"Trust me. I am not going to interact with the locals unless I have to."
(I bet these ponies steal. Good thing I do not have my bit pouch on me.)
>>110363"I think I know ponies that could get us through"
>>110372He pats the colt
"Then I'm sure we can find you a way. But until then, we'll help you here."
>>110372Hmm....
What to do without an interpreter....
Spark continues to comfort the changelings as he thinks of a plan.
>>110404Spread the love.Spread your cheeks.To give them a nice little kiss on their cheeks.
>>110404Maybe see if you can learn their names?
>>110409Huh, I guess it is worth a try.
>>110372Spark pats his hoof against his chest.
"Spark."
He then points at them.
"You?"
Looks like there will be a part 5
Sweet Boek himself was an absentee landlord, never once seen at the property. He was known, however, for visits to the “Sacred Heart of Celestia and Luna,” the old Orthodox church a block over and a block inland from 33 Hoebuck. The building has long ceased functioning as a church to Harmony, and has been operating as what is presumed to be an unofficial Griffin temple to Boreas. The other big temple to Boreas in Redheart claims the church has no affiliation to the Griffonian Church in Romao. There is certainly non-religious activity going on in that church – the church is used to host dance lessons and even competitions on Wednesdays, and sometimes Mondays by a local organization. The church is known to be visited by a number of creatures, mostly griffins, who congregate there on some days, and also seem to congregate there on certain nights every fourth week, casting glowing light out from the church windows, without the music associated with dancing. Relatives and members of the public concerned about Boek’s associations have asked him the nature of these visits, and he tells of his interest in the various immigrant cultures found in Red Heart, as well as the opportunity for networking provided by such congregations. Sweet Boek explains that as a landlord, he has an interest in finding tenants, especially commercial tenants, and non-pony creatures are often refused business by other business ponies in Baltimare and the Equestrian East Coast. “Why not combine my love of world cultures with business?” Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that the membership of the alleged temple overlaps significantly with what is believed to be the longer-term residents of the Hostel at 33 Hoebuck.
In the years that followed came a number of reports of suspicious activity. A coast guard cutter reported seeing a small boat heading in the direction of 33 Hoebuck, presumably from a freighter docked at the dockyards only a few blocks north, during a moonless night. Customs agents, and even a pair of neighbors have reported much the same done more brazenly even on moon filled nights, with little boats that generally seem to be carrying creatures heading towards the structures. Though its connection to 33 Hoebuck is doubtful, it is known that in this time, and to a great degree before then, a number of often brutal gang turf wars occurred in Redheart between what seem to be immigrant groups forming gangs, and the local crime syndicates of Baltimare. Some creatures have also been seen moved around at night in groups in the Hoebuck area, and these creatures are not known to be local residents. This is, however, a rare sight.
The most important incident came in May, 1009, when a griffin ran crying into the police station in South Redheart. Though she quickly became reticent and unwilling to speak with the police about her experiences after a few questions, the bruises on both of her legs, as well as around other parts of her body, told the story that she could not, showing she had been forcefully restrained and likely beaten. Police went to site to look around and visit the shoe factory. Then, as in the present situation, police suspected that creatures were being smuggled into the city, then kept as slaves in the alleged “hostel” as they were forced to make shoes in the workshop. The police quickly received a warrant to conduct an immigration raid – as immigration law offered the most leniency to that end for police activity – and stormed the entire Hoebuck site.
What they found inside would become the subject of public indignation, as the raid revealed a site both shocking and expected. Zebras, Gnolls of Hyenia, Griffins, and ponies were found in some instances caged, and in some instances chained to work tables, besides numerous other violations. The total number of creatures found on the scene was relatively low, maybe 30 in total, and lead the police to believe that part of the population within the structure became wise to the raid before hoof, and escaped. The raid of course revealed a scheme of false imprisonment, besides a laundry list of more mundane civil workplace violations like too small of a distance between worker’s chairs and machines, or overly long hours. A number of creatures were also found in the Hostel and were subject to interview by the Principality’s law enforcement – a crying pink mare refugee from Skynavia in particular became the picture on the front page of the newspaper – but the results of these interviews were locked away in the Canterlot Archives, and though presumably available to the Blackhooves, were not subpoenaed by the Baltimare Blackhooves.
What was known to the public were the forced labor conditions of the migrants, and there was a search to try to find Storm Feather Maakie, who was found, after investigation, to be the ultimate owner of not only the hostel, but the Shoe Factory as well. The investigators discovered Maakie operating several companies as a front for smuggling of goods and creatures, including elsewhere in the city. He seemed to have connections with other questionable merchants out of the City of Skyfall, where he had more recent residence than he claimed. The shoes produced at the workshop were distributed to a warehouse where they were sold under different names. The city’s efforts to bring Maakie to justice were ultimately futile as Maakie seemed to be out of the country, but the Shoe Factory was closed down, as was the Hostel. Sweet Boek apologized profusely for the situation, and repeated incessantly that he did not know what was actually going on at his site, only that the two organizations renting out the structures paid him on time. The Church of the Sacred Heart was also raided shortly thereafter under a secret warrant, and for reasons not entirely known, but presumably because of its connection to the long-term denizens of the alleged Hostel. No creature was found.
>>110438"That is one slimy griffon..."
>>110438Iron can't help but get the idea he captures air from his nostrils much better than ponies.
Cuz his beak is big and hooked.(Why am I even thinking this?)
He is utterly confused, as if somepony planted that thought on him.
>>110438"That Bird needs to be fried!"
Dark Star says with a scowl on his face.
>>110462REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!
>>110465Anyways...how are you.
>>110466I'd say I'm well.
I'm pumped to enter the land of group questing again.
I'd want a six figure pay to spend on both Iron and Cauldron into magic items, but I'll assume I'll only get five figure pay for balance reasons.
I'm worried about the future, and how I could merge into the group while still visiting Cauldron and not stumble into one PC only adventures that potentially could last forever, harming GM's enthusiasm.
The usual.
>>110467You shouldn't have to worry about doing stuff alone. I'm sure Silver and Star would still be happy helping out if Cauldron had something she wanted Iron to help her with.
But yeah, it's pretty exciting how we're going to get to do a mission together again.
>>110468Oh no, I don't mean the lingering questline of stopping Pear Faucet from calling upon the windigoes. You and Star gonna get invited for that.
Perhaps it's only me after the whole Junglequest that puts me on edge after GM admitted he wasn't really fond of it to avoid single-PC quests, but I may need confirmation one way or the other before doing any sort of mission alone.
Still, overall nice to be back into the fold and not straining the storyline over the two long-extending questlines the monthly and daily group have set out for themselves.
It's as if we're playing two different games.
>>110469We damn near almost are.
>>110469Plus, Silver gets to continue to be Iron's wingpony. Black Iron Cauldron will survive!
>>110471IrondronThe ultimate ship to sink all other ships! Admiral approved!
>>110472Blairon works, too.
>>110472>>110476Eh, I'd just go with Black Iron or Iron Cauldron.
>>110477Understandable. Black Iron sounds better, tho
>>110478Might as well have some IC dialog while we wait for the green light from the GM."Can you tell me little bit more about you and Cauldron? How did you two meet?"
>>110479Iron looks to the sides, perturbed for his boldness to speak about it in front of two other ponies.
"What?"
>>110481Silver rolls his eyes and asks his question in a quieter voice. "How did you and Cauldron meet?"
>>110481>>110479The resident love master listens intently
>>110484>>110482Sadly, the snooper is eager to swallow all of that juicy information Iron has, making him quite nervous.
(Silver, you old pony!)
"Um... it was nice?"
(I have no idea how much I can say. Think, think!)
"We met at a... bar! Yes! A bar."
>>110485"Eh...okay? Anything else?"
>>110486Iron lightly scratches the top of the table with his hoof.
"We... walked around the city, looking at the sights... and then I got hurt by some... misunderstanding, forcing us to go to a medicine pony, and that was it! Nothing else happened!"
>>110487Silver stares at him for a couple seconds. "...Why are you so nervous, Iron?"
>>110488Iron coughs a little, then puffs out his chest.
"Nervous? Me?"
He waves a hoof in Silver's direction, audibly 'pfft'ing.
"No. You are just imagining things."
>>110484He briefly glances at Skies' direction, wondering what's her current mood.
>>110489Silver's not sure he believes that. "Hmm..."
>>110490Iron is starting to get sweaty, his hindlegs weak and his forelegs are sweaty.
He presents a big, fake smile that is meant to portray some semblance of confidence on the situation.
>>110488Skies is kind of confused by the situation before her
With a whisper she says
“He seems like the type who would brag about any girls he has... best guess, he doesn’t have her”
>>110491Better be rollin' them Bluffs, boah."You act like there is some horrible, terrible secret about her."
[1d20-2 = -7]>>110493Iron's eyes widen.
(He is onto me!)
"What? No! No secrets at all! Who said
anything was a secret? Not me!"
For his sake, rolling bluff.
Poor colt doesn't know if he should come out with Cauldron's gang side job.
[1d20+3 = 22]>>110492Silver takes this possibility into account.
>>110494Opposed
>>110494Skies’ look says it all
>>110494>>110495Iron can't get this one around the perceptive old stallion.
>>110497>>110496(Gods, I am not good with keeping secrets.)
Iron decides that the best course of action is to throw a 180 conversation topic to try to confuse them and poking the subject on crime, particularly to the agent Silver is next to.
"Oh! I heard at the bar that the gang became tense after that boat job that happened a few days ago. I was not expecting that to travel so fast."
>>110498“Is this the same bar where you met this ‘Black Cauldron’?”
>>110498Silver sees straight through that tactic.
"Mhm. You know, you can just come out and say that she is not real, yes? Trust is essential for teams to work well together, and silly lies like that will not help."
>>110499Iron nods with a semblance of normalcy.
>>110500Iron considers Silver's conclusion, actually mulling it over.
(Perhaps I should do the ultimate trick and make them believe she is not real? But Silver would not buy the potions she produces. If only I could know Skies' reaction to admitting Cauldron is a gangster as a side job.)
He remains silent for the time being, wanting to see Skies' line of questioning first before commiting one action or another.
Sorry for double post.
>>110502Skies only sits there, silently, with a skeptical look on her face
>>110503Alright. Time to decision.Iron considers his options.
(If I come out with Cauldron's background on Skies, she will definitely want to arrest her due to her background without much hesitation, specially without any sway with her, and I would break my promise with Cauldron. However, Silver seems like he could be a regular customer for her potions from what he says, which would help her get out of the business. What to do, what to do. Take a risk or play it safe?)
With that in mind, he exhales.
"Can you three hold a secret?"
>>110504Silver nods, unsure of what it would be.
>>110500Skies leans over to Silver, and explains the situation as she understands it:
“Alright, now what do we know about Iron? He has a very high opinion of himself, lacks anything resembling humility, and has some kind of primitive ground pony belief about the status of mares that places them on the same level as their favored sticks. So he’s definitely not the kind of pony who would be bashful about a somepony. He’d rather parade her as an object that grants status. So I bet that either she dies not exist at all, she’s not even remotely close to being ‘his,’ or there’s something seriously wrong with her”
>>110505>>110507Iron cocks his head, surprised by the accusation.
"No."
(We did have a talk about them abusing 'excitable' stallions, but she does not need to know that. Last thing she needs is to be reminded of the possibility of having multiple females for each male back at my tribe.)
>>110508He shakes his head.
"Well. Cauldron is..."
He pauses for a bit, last consideration.
"...a grunt... if you know what I mean."
>>110509"...She is soldier?"
>>110510He shakes his head.
"More like a... guard, but not affiliated with the city."
>>110509>>110511“A guard for who?!”
>>110512"For..."
He sighs.
"...remember how you mentioned the docks job was in conjunction with the gang here?"
(Will she get the hint?)
>>110513"You mean she is member of gang you are member of?"
>>110514"I would not say I am part of it, but yes."
Iron glances at Skies.
"I was partnered with her for my first job."
>>110515Silver looks a little dumbfounded. "
That was what had you worried?"
>>110515Skies has a look something to the effect of
it fucking figures
>>110516Iron looks a bit surprised.
"...yes?"
>>110518"I suppose I should ask: what exactly does she do for gang?"
>>110517Iron can't help but get a bit nervous over her expression.
>>110519"I said she was a grunt."
>>110520"And that means...?
>>110521"Guard stuff and following orders. Basically she is at the bottom of the hierarchy."
Iron is getting a bit suspicious over Silver's questioning.
>>110522Oh
he’s suspicious
>>110522Silver nods. "Okay then. If we are willing to give you chance even if you are member of gang, then why would we not give her chance?"
>>110523I expected Skies to be asking this, honestly. I guess she seems to be happy for him.
Or she still believes he's lying.>>110524Iron blinks.
"I did a one time thing with them. She is a little more compromised into doing her 'job' from circumstances."
>>110523I'm back. Last I remember, I was trying to communicate to changelings.
>>110525Now he shakes his head. "Same difference. It is obvious you like her, and I doubt you would if she was member of gang out of malevolent reasons. I am only disappointed that you did not trust us enough to simply tell us truth."
>>110525>>110526The two changelings look at him puzzled, then look st each other. Finally, Blue Eyes responds
With a hole ridden leg places to his wounded torso, he says
“Sieben Uhr einunddreißig”
Then, Blue Green speaks up,
“Fünf Zweiundneunzig”
Then they speak together, slightly delayed and over each other, but nearly simultaneously
“Von Apis und Nackter Fang“
>>110527She shakes her head in a statement that she does not agree with Silver, but otherwise says nothing
>>110528>>110527Iron deadpans at Silver.
"I do not know about you and the other two, but my relationship between you three is not as strong as you think it is, specially with Skies."
He glances at the pegasus pony.
"Am I wrong?"
I am quite surprised. Mayhaps she'll accept Cauldron's services.Hopefully her loyalty to the gang is waning due to the stress of being caged and losing the progress she had.
>>110529Skies nods, looking strangely pleased at this statement, and this is the first time she has looked pleased in a while in the conversation
>>110529Silver gives him a dead serious look. "You have said it yourself: you have not made serious attempt to make it so. Dark Star and I have been trying our hardest to get to know you and make attempt to befriend you, even if you yourself appear to not show much of interest in reciprocating. And I imagine even Blue Skies would agree that you two
not getting into petty, foalish fights every time you are in same room would be better than not."
>>110528"Umm... that's a lot of words... and pretty hard to say too..."
Spark thinks for a moment.
"How about you are Seb and Fun Von Fang? Those are good names."
Spark smiles.
>>110532They look a little unsure. Then again, it’s a captive audience, so Spark can do what he wants
>>110530He, understandably, is a bit surprised, but Silver's retort seems to put him off a little.
>>110531Iron seems to be slightly disturbed.
"Forced friendships are not good for anypony, Silver. A pony needs time and experiences with eachother form such a thing. It is not going to magically be established by some speech about the importance of it or trust or anything."
He inhales.
"Sometimes, it is important to be cautious on who to be friends with, no matter how trustworthy they seem."
>>110535The look on Silver's face suggests some criticism he would make, if he were not intimately familar with how such endeavors are futile. Instead, he remains silent.
>>110534Spark knows it isn't the best idea, but he figures it is one of the only ways he can progress the conversion with laguage barrier.
"Spark."
He points to himself.
"Seb, Fun."
He points to them.
"Friends."
He holds a hoof out to them.
>>110535Skies giggles, then says darkly
“Forced Friendships not good for anyone? Hehehe. Ground Pony,
do you know where you are? You are in Equestria. Not your mother’s cooch, not some empty forest, and not the griffin lands.
Equestria. A land where Friendship is so central to society’s conception of its own welfare they appointed a new Czar just to personally intervene into pony’s lives to make sure they had friendship whether they like it or not. Friendship is non-negotiable.”
>>110536Onyx can go interact with them if he likes
>>110538Skies gives a stare
No. Make the losing attack. Did when you attack, you slowly grind down their will to resist>>110539They recoil for a moment. After they realize that Spark is not going to stab them, Blue-Green Fun gets his snout closer to it, and starts sniffing, before pulling away. Then Blue Eyes Seb comes closer, and starts to sniff the hoof
>>110541>Like tooHe would like to leave, but he guessed he can see what's going on.
He gets up and walks into the room.
"How goes it Spark?"
>>110538>>110540Iron can't help but chuckle at how melodramatic Skies is being due to his statements.
"I admit I do not, but from my first experiences it does not sound like what you have described it."
He chuckles some more.
"I did not even hear two ponies doing a big musical number outside."
>>110543“Did you think it would be your
last experience?”
She comes closer to him, and whispers carefully yet menacingly into his ear
”Not even in death, does the ride end”>>110539Onyx comes towards the room, and asks “how’s it going, Spark?”
>>110542
>>110541Why are they always so cute?
>>110542He sees changelings curious about Spark's hoof.
"Ok. How are the ponies?"
>>110541>>110543It doesn't seem like Silver wants to get into an argument about friendship, of all things.
>>110545"Alive, no thanks to them"
He gestures at the bugs.
"Any progress so far?"
>>110547"The bat didn't feel like translating, so I am trying to comuncate the best I can."
>>110547>>110545The insectoid creatures move back a couple steps. They seem to be afraid of Onyx, even with his dulled coat and alcohol smell
>>110544Iron openly laughs after she does this.
"I suppose it never will be. You are the one who lived here longer, so I will not question it."
He decides to go for a big ol' hug on Skies since she took the liberty of getting so close to him preaching about her friendship.
"Alright, alright. I will give you a nice big scoop of friendship for you, since it seems so vital to you, boss."
>>110546Skies shakes her head
“Friendship isn’t always easy. But it is always worth fighting for”
>>110550Oh fuck
Poner is surprise hugged, with more than a little surprise in her expression
She is soft, with varied bone, muscle and feather underneath, and an overly smooth coat and silky mane. She smells like coconut and passion fruit
>>110549Awwwww.
Spark remains there with his hoof out.
"It's ok."
>>110551While true, it doesn't appear to change much about his decision or demeanor.
>>110549Onyx grunts at the bugs
>>110548"Of course he didn't, drag us out here then don't work. Anything I can do?"
>>110551He holds pose for a bit, letting Skies get accostumed to being hugged by the mean stallion after her threat.
"You seem surprised, boss. You were not expecting suddenly getting hugged, were you?"
He chuckles some more.
"But I am staying here for a long time so I might as well get used to expressing affection like this with everypony, since it is the law of the land here and all."
>>110554"Just make sure they don't escape. I might have to feed them later and that will leave me down and you to keep them from the others."
>>110556Onyx looks shocked at Sparks idea
"No, they'll feed off of me. Not you."
>>110553Though still in an Iron grip, skies starts laughing
“Pffft! Fuck Friendship. I
still haven’t figured out why Equestrians value it over more practical things like flying”
>>110555Ever had one of those moment where you just think to yourself “fuck... I actually didn’t have any kind of contingency plan for this eventuality... I was really not expecting it to happen, now I’m kind of just stuck in it”? Because Blue Skies is having one of those moments right now.
Her body feels as if it were made to be like a pillow, or a child’s teddy bear. There is something strangely huggable about her
>>110554>>110552The changelings move away a little fearfully at the grunt, but then creep closer to the extended hoof, leveling and stretching their snouts out until they almost make contact with the foreleg, slightly sniffing it
>>110557The shimmer off of Onyx’s coat is in the belly of the Blue-Green eyed drone Spark has named “Fun”
>>110558The attempt only gets a sad, tired sigh out of the pony.
>>110557"In case you haven't noticed, you are the strong one here. If you go down, they can waltz over me. Besides, I have a soft spot for them, so they will hopefully get a better fill off of me and not kill me in the process. I hope at least."
>>110558Spark remains calm.
>>110560"Fine, but I don't like this plan."
>>110558Onyx glares at that particular bug
>>110559>>110558Iron chuckles some more at her unresponsive nature, huggling some more.
But then he hears Skies' nasty comment, eliciting a big tsk tsk from him.
"Now now, Skies. That is not friendly to do. You are hurting Silver's feelings."
He does a little squeeze on her, just to feel some more of the softness as well as makeshift friendship torture for her transgression.
"Say sorry to Silver, Skies."
He grins some more.
"Or was your speech about friendship being important in Equestria all false?"
>>110562Silver looks over at Iron, his voice sounding a little tired. "I will not force you to be friend. I only ask that you give us fair chance."
>>110559>>110562*Poner is squeezed*
“Gah! I was poking fun at the weird Equestrian system... something something ‘Friendship’ and ‘Kindness,’ blah blah”
>>110560>>110561The burned Blue-Green Eyed “fun” raises his head, nesting Onyx’s eyes with his own giant Aqua ones. He stares back at Onyx for a moment, before breaking away, moving behind the other drone - still inspecting Spark’s leg - and then meets his eyes again. His eyes glow in the dark, almost, looking back
>>110564Iron smiles devilishly.
"Oh~ So you do not mind hurting a fellow pony's feelings even though friendship is
so central to this society, boss? You know how serious his beliefs are, yet you stab his heart with witty remarks that belittles his beliefs?"
He tsks again.
"Boss, be more considerate to Silver. After all he is your fellow pony~"
He does another little squeeze.
"I am expecting an apology for Silver, boss."
>>110565Iron has never been that close to the female form before
Skies is strangely comfortable with it, even with a squeeze
“Oh please. He dismissed it even when he thought I was serious. He doesn’t care. I doubt he believes in it either”
>>110566*floof pone is hurt*
>>110564Spark remains still for the changeling.
>>110561"You may want to leave Onyx. Just make sure the family is safe and I'll be back soon."
>>110566His smug levels are too high for him to notice.>>110567>>110566Seeing Silver's reaction only furthers his smug grin on Skies.
"I told you, boss."
Another squeeze is sent, mainly to feel more softness.
"You are due to send an apology now."
>>110567Uh-uh... Awwwwwwwww
Don’t be sad little floof pone. Let me hug you. Don’t worry, that mean old feathered bitch won’t be hurting you any more
>>110568"Alright... Yell if they try anything..."
Onyx slowly leaves, not taking his good eye off of the changelings before checking on the injured ponies.
>>110569Skies is still soft, especially around the belly where there are no bones to block the squeezing, and her wings spill out from under the enveloping legs. Yet still she remains strong
"
No. Never."
https://youtu.be/cLYHgNEqp2o?t=27>>110568>>110571Um... You know these are the cocooning type of Changeling, right? They don't just bite on you, they wrap you in silk like a spider so they can suck out the rest of your life juices later
>>110571Ruby is close to the door
"What's going on?"
The two little mute pones still sit by the fire place, while nearby, the grey one - Dawson - is moving and breathing. He seems to be starting to wake up. Rose is not far behind
>>110573"I'm not sure yet, help me with the others will ya?"
Onyx walks over and gently shakes Dawson to see if he wakes up.
>>110572Well, I mean the one just bit on Onyx so......
[1d20+8 = 23]>>110572Iron smiles even more devilishly.
"I guess I will have to carry you to the mission like this, then. Tie you on my back, perhaps? We have options, boss."
He chuckles.
"Maybe while I am at it I could put a sign on your neck saying 'All ponies are equal.' I would say that is a powerful message for the passerby ponies could absorb into. After all, friendship does not distinguish between species."
Intimidate tiem
>>110575Nothing, he just shakes, laying there
Then his eyes open.
Then he jumps up, on his feet, legs out and teeth grit, staring angrilly at Onyx, his brown hair drained of any detail
"What the hay is going on here?! Who are you?!"
>>110576"You can trust your back with me!"
>>110577"Who the hay am I? I'm the pony that got you out of the bucking cocoon! Now calm down for a minute, are you hurt?"
>>110572Onyx will just rescue me if that is the case.
Spark remains friendly.
>>110578"Yes... I'm cut along my foreleg, and I had most of the life drained out of me"
>>110579Seb comes a little closer to Spark
>>110577Iron chuckles.
"And you say I am the stubborn one."
He does a little squeeze again.
"Oh well. I gave friendship a chance only for it to crash unceremoniously on the ground. It shows how true your previous statements were, boss, which is none whatsoever. Good job on painting yourself as a hypocrite, boss. Not very honorable of you."
>>110567He looks at Silver knowingly.
"Do you want to switch places? Her coat is soft."
>>110580"No shit? Well you can complain so you obviously aren't dying"
Onyx steps over and gently shakes Rose awake.
>>110581No response from the floof pone.
>>110581"Go fuck yourself with a long, spiny cactus"
She has that malign smile
"And read a dictionary, because verbal irony is not the meaning of the word 'hypocrite'"
>>110582"Huh?"
She wakes up, looking frail and tired. A beige-ish colored mare
>>110580Spark sits there and smiles.
>>110584"Good to see you're alive as well. Do you need anything?"
>>110586Dawson stands up and looks around
“Are they gone? What happened? And who are you?”
Rose tries to pull herself forward with her two hooves
“I need water...”
>>110584>>110583Iron shrugs, moving her along with his movements.
"I have still made my case. Your words are mere fluff and you cannot follow it up with actions. You have what I assumed is a 'friend' but you routinely make fun of the core of his character without worry or empathy for him."
He sets her on her seat as normal with care.
"Imagine if a friend of yours kept on going about how weak the pegasi are, with their 'soft skeletons that break due to mere wind'. Would
you call him or her a friend? Somepony you would hang out with? After all, they think you would not care if they kept bashing you about it and thought of it as mere 'jokes' to share with you."
Iron smiles.
"I bet you would kill them in their sleep if you ever had the chance.
Am I wrong?"
[1d20+2 = 14]>>110585The creature sits down in front of Spark, and looks at him. While the other one moves forward towards him. They speak to each other in their language, back and forth
>>110588Roll opposed grapple
[1d20+10 = 24]>>110589Well that's unexpected.
Here we go!
[1d20+3 = 9]>>110590Roll a new opposed grapple
[1d20+10 = 12]>>110591Um... okay?
[1d20+3 = 9]>>110592“Let. Me.
Go.”
A third opposed grapple
[1d20+10 = 20]>>110593Iron blinks, realizing he's struck a nerve.
"Do you feel how it hurts, boss? That is how Silver is feeling right now."
[1d20+6 = 9]>>110594Skies does not. Roll opposed grapple
[1d20+10 = 27]>>110595Iron sighs.
"I guess you do not care about others. Only yourself."
[1d20+6 = 21]>>110596Skies says nothing. And yet she’s got all night. Roll opposed grapple
>>110594>>110595Silver's mood takes a sudden, likely expected turn. He glares at the two ponies and snaps. "
ENOUGH!"
[1d20+10 = 23]>>110597Opposed.
>>110598Iron silently knows it is time for him to actually expose his beliefs to cement his words.
(I take my part of the blame for this.)
>>110598Skies is stilled for a moment inside of her muscular prison
>>110599>>110600The formerly melancholy air around Silver has evaporated. He no longer cares where they are or who many be listening. "
You absolute foals! Can you not go five minutes without fighting like you are both in kindergarden!?"
>>110602Iron simply looks at him a bit shocked but ultimately undisturbed.
(At least he is not moping.)
>>110602".... He started it"
>>110603"Let me go, or we are going to have a much bigger issue here"
>>110605Iron shrugs, planting Skies in the same spot he would've done before trying to escape his grasp.
>>110603>>110604"
I do not CARE who started it, I am going to be one who finishes it! You are both grown-ass ponies who should have learned better years ago, but apparently that is not case. Unless you want me to buy you both pacifiers and burp you over my shoulder, I expect you two to sit down, shut up, and deal with your problems with each other like grown ponies do: by talking."
>>110607>>110606Skies is left silent once again. Her eyes bare resentment, which has not dissipated since it formed earlier, before Silver spoke
>>110607Iron looks at Silver confused.
(Were we not doing that just then? Eh, whatever. He is trying to keep some semblance of peace between Skies and I in fear of things escalating, also because he is tired of seeing it happen, of course.)
He turns stoic, awaiting what will happen.
>>110608>>110609The old stallion is left rubbing the bridge of his muzzle while speaking in a hoarse voice. "Селестия, дай мне силы не задушить пони...alright, now that
that is over with, there is something you both need to say to each other." He continues to glare a father-like glare at the two ponies with the unspoken message that apologies to each other are in order...and the unspoken promise of what will happen if they choose not to.
>>110610"Alright..."
>>110609"Fuck you. Do not touch me. Do not try to
restrain me like that. And do not speak to me like that."
>>110611*SLAM*Silver lets out an honest-to-goddess
growl at Skies as his hoof connects with the table in front of her, his voice low and dangerous. "
Wrong. Answer."
[1d2 = 1]>>110612She sinks back in her seat
>>110610Iron nods approvingly
(Now that is some authority! Should have come out before with that attitude instead of being used as a doormat.)
>>110611But Skies' retort is less than stellar in his eyes.
He keeps silent.
>>110612>>110613Iron can't help but start mentally cheering Silver on, maintaining his stoic nature.
(Amazing performance! Now that is the sort of stallion to look up to!)
I wonder if the silence from the GM is a sign that he's sleeping, or if it's continued silence on Blue Skies' part.
>>110615I have no clue. Probably the latter.
>>110612>>110614Skies pulls back, more than a little indignant. Then she rise forth, and starts her own yell
"Alright, this guy" pointing at Silver "Says we should try to become friends or something, and this guy" pointing to Iron " says no, we should keep our distance from each other and just have a business relationship. So I make a joke about Equestrian Friendship political philosophy-whatever about mandatory friendship schooling, and it looks like both of you thought I was serious. And you know what happens? Mr. Friendship over here decides to just keep silent and not get involved. Like how the fuck are you supposed to be arguing that a relationship is supposed to be forced, yet here you are doing anything but. At the exact moment some one is talking about the importance of friendship lessons, you bail, deciding it's not worth talking about. Like what the fuck was your position then? Did you agree with Iron the whole time? And then I say that I was just joking, because the Equestrian culture is alien to me."
Then she turns to Iron and in a gesture that throws both of her hooves forward, she yells to Iron
"
I was fucking agreeing with you. You told Silver that no, you want nothing more than a business relationship, and I insinuated that yeah, that's just fine. Then what do you do? What the fuck do you do? You
fucking restrain me. That is
not how you treat a stranger. That's called "unlawful restraint," it's a crime, and it is inappropriate to do to... well, to anyone who is not either a lover or a smaller sibling, and even then only under certain circumstances. I swear to the Mother I was
this close to unleashing Dark Magic upon you the likes of which your pea brain can scarce fathom. I do not mind being touched, I will not be restrained. And during all of this, what do you do? You become indignant for me
agreeing with you. Somehow, some way, you twist it in your mind that because I made a joke about Equestrian harmony whatever-ism - which was fucking taking your position - that that's a bad thing. Like tie your fucking self down if you believe that, because I advanced nothing that you didn't already. And then I mentioned that obviously Silver didn't believe in trying to force relationships or whatever, because he thought I was serious about the Equestrian nonsense earlier and he just stayed fucking silent like it was the wrong move, or something. Like how the fuck do you feel morally superior when I fucking agree with the position you were arguing for in the first place, and when I call out Silver for apparently agreeing as well? Just... What the
Fuck is wrong with you, you sick fuck? I don't touch or threaten you when you agree with me in a conversation. If you
ever do that again, I will fucking
destroy you, and if you don't believe I can or will, then you simply lack the imagination to comprehend what is coming."
\r
>>110619Iron feels like a godamn retard.
"After all of that, we were fighting on a... misunderstanding?"
He can't handle this newfound revelation he basically endangered both Iron and
Cauldron's life on a big oopsie.
His breathing starts getting ragged.
"I cannot believe I tried to pick up a mare to live with when I
cannot even understand basic language."
He repeatedly faceslams the desk, hoping one of the strikes could end his pathetic existence, also increasing his heart rate.
"Just. End. Me," he says each time he forcefully forces himself on it.
Thus, Iron lies within two choices for being a colossal faggot and not understanding what other ponies say to him, dumbfounded he even has the capacity to fuck himself over this profoundly. Skedaddle from this place forever or end his pitiful yet stupid existence since he basically threw away any sort of honor he had. No reedemable qualities to be found anywhere and basically fucking Cauldron over while he does this stupid shit. What a fag he is, ladies and gentlecolts. Give him a nice clap and place him on a trash pedestal. No way he's actually getting zero consequences from this, so might as well end this pony's story already.Iron wishes to rewind away this stupid set of events up until before 'hugging' her at best or at least before she uttered to Silver the hurtful thing.
>>110622What did you think was going on?
>>110623I thought she was saying the opposite. She basically admitted that friendship was coming for him in this land whether he likes it or not. That is why he went for the surprise hug, since he thought it was the law of this place to befriend everything.
>>110624Then what was that that happened after that, when he continued to hold her down and tried to force her to say something?
>>110625He thought she was being a hypocrite for hurting Silver's feelings, of course following the logic of 'friendship as law' line. I would've let her down the post after she was still uncomfortable if she didn't say that line.
>>110619Silver has absolutely
had it with this mare. "
Are you actually daft, Skies!? He was setting you down in your seat, and you attacked him. Not other way around! You literally jumped on him and tried to wrestle him down as he was putting you out of his lap and onto your seat, and then you try to complain when Earth Pony much bigger than you manages to win. For all we know, he was restraining you so you would not try to kill him."No, Skies, I did not
agree with you. I was so tired of trying to argue with all three of you about
friendship of all things because that is all that happens when I try to bring it up. Every time, over and over again, it drives me insane! I have had it up to
here," He motions above his head with a hoof, "with you
belittling my beliefs, my country, and my leaders. I have tried to be as understanding as I can when learning and hearing about
your beliefs, country, and leaders because I know that even if they seem strange or wrong to me, that they are like that for reason, and that even if I do not necessarily agree with them I can respect differences between Equestrians and Nimbusians that produced them.
And do not give me horseshit about it being joke, you and I both know it is not far outside from what you would say."Now,
apologise to Iron for attacking and threatening him over what appears to be misunderstanding, or I swear I will drag you out of tavern all way to Grand Baltimare Hotel by your ear, and let every Black Hoof there know in very precise detail how one of their agents likes to get drunk, get into brawls with locals, then threaten to kill them. I imagine higher-ups would absolutely love that particular piece of publicity."
>>110622Silver also wishes that they could go back to before this mess started.
>>110627>>110622“Bone head, I was trying to
free myself...” she stops then, is silenced, and sits back, presumably contemplating
>>110628Silver maintains his vision on the pegasus mare. "Unless you are trying to insinuate that I am blind, that is
not what happened." Other than that, he leaves her contemplation be.
>>110629>>110622Skies sits silent, a cocktail of indignation frustration, perhaps even fear and whatever else upon her face, but she remains mostly collected for the moment. Silent. Then, she starts to get up, placing her hooves on the floor as she tries to maneuver around the edge of the table. She finally speaks:
“Alright.... I don’t know if the Civilian Governate is well organized enough to send one of their own to act as a liaison to organize voluntary helpers. I just know that
I am not going to do it, I am not cut out to do it, I never asked to do it, and I sure as hell am not going to do it for some damned bullshit for the Governate that they really ought to be doing themselves. Good night, it has
not been a pleasure.”
She gets up, out from under the table, and is finally freed on the floor. Free to move. She spreads her wings. Far and wide, they seem almost as big as the rest of her, and fill the space around her, as if she were trying to take up the space so nothing else could occupy it. She unceremoniously turns to the door, and walks away
>>110630Silver watches her walk for a second before letting out a sigh and following.
Every time I open my Celestia-damned mouth...Чертов идиотский конь... She doesn't even get a chance to fully leave before he calls out to her in a softer voice than before. "Blue Skies."
>>110631She says nothing, but walks towards the door, eventually raising a leg to push it out. Her wings are not fully extended, as there is not enough room to do that, but they are mostly extended around her, hanging down with the top feathers scraping the floor, and causing her slim, cat-like body to more than quadruple its space. They take up an area extending many feet from her, as if to give her the personal space she was previously denied. If another customer were walking it, he’d be irritated by the gesture
>>110632He continues to follow at a faster pace, a hint of pleading in his voice coming to the surface. "Blue Skies!"
>>110633She continues forward, now going through the door and into the street. It is night time. The full moon shines down from a sky that is a little less bespeckled than it was a year before, making her coat look almost like a blue-ish white night gown in the light, close to her body.
Her voice has a hint of finality to it
“No. I am done here. If you want a pony to go along with you, go to the headquarters of the Governate in downtown, and ask if they have anypony available. I doubt they have Antoine who will be willing to do ‘recon,’ but I do not know. What I do know is that I am going back, and I will demand that my supervisor not assign me to any more ‘making friends with the natives’ bullshit, and will put me back on intelligence work where I belong.”
>>110634Silver steps fully outside, letting the door to the tavern close behind him. "That is not why I followed you out here, Blue Skies."
>>110636She turns her body fully around to face him, spinning her open wings about like the dress skirt of a dancing ballerina, and lightly grazing Silver with her tips. She faces him with an angry, teary-eyed expression
“
What”
>>110637Silver's expression is far softer than it was just a minute ago, with hints of fear, sadness, and guilt across its surface. He doesn't flinch back from the wingtips, but her voice does seem to hammer it in further. "I...I am sorry, Blue. For everything. This whole thing is not worth losing you over."
>>110638She looks at him, still angry for a moment, but her mouth hangs open, and she starts to squint her eyes upwards. Tears are definitely coming from her eyes. She is speechless for this moment
>>110639He steps forward to close the distance between them. "I know I am very stupid pony, I know. And I know I do not deserve to have pony like you in my life, to brighting up my day and chase clouds away. And I know it may seem as though I say same things over and over again...but that it because I mean them."
Once the distance is closed, her attempts to pull her into a hug. "I love you, Blue Skies. You have been bright spot in this otherwise dark life, one that I would fight and die for, and you are not at all worth losing over this silliness we all seem to get ourselves wrapped up in."
>>110640Poner is sad, but her neck hangs out, and her wings pull in slightly. Silver May attempt a hug if he dare enter her space (he’d have to come in where her wings are not).
She hangs her head slightly, and looks down to the ground
>>110641Silver does indeed not just attempt the hug, but give his all into it, giving her a friendly, reassuring squeeze and letting her head rest upon his shoulder. His heart damn near breaks upon seeing her sadness continued, especially knowing that he is once again the cause of this.
I really am stupid pony...
>>110642Awwwww....
Poner is hugged. She says nothing, but she closes her wings down. She is soft, especially with the fine hairs of her coat. She smells lightly of coconut and passion fruit. Her mane is like silk as it brushes up against him
She speaks, softly, sadly
“I don’t know...”
>>110644"I know." Silver lightly strokes her mane, revelling not just in how it feels but also in just how nice it is to be in her presence, and not arguing or shouting at each other. "I know I can not ask for much, and that I do not deserve much for how I have acted. I just ask that we do not let what has happened tonight impact our relationship negatively. I love you, and I still want to be there to comfort you when you need it, just as I would want you to be there to comfort me. I want us to still be able to sit down together and share friendly drink, to share our exploits with each other without coming to arguments and blows. To be able to have those moments where we may just cuddle together in peace and enjoy being so close that we might as well be one. I do not want to lose my bright Blue Skies..."
>>110645She is again silent in response. But her little hooves clop against the concrete sidewalk, She brushes against him with her body, her wings pulling in, then fully folded, then leans against him. She feels cold, even colder than she did a moment before. She seems better now, and closes her eyes with little tears streaming down
>>110646Silver is fine with lending her his shoulder to cry on. In fact, the shoulder has already been lended to her. He keeps a hold of her for as long as she'll allow it, as he's enjoying being there with her. He smiles a little. "I really like what they did with your mane."
>>110647“Thank you.... I like to look pretty... and feel nice on the outside...”
>>110648"You say that almost like you do not feel nice on inside..." Silver pulls back only enough to give her a concerned look. "...is that right?"
>>110649*pony sniffles*
“... maybe...”
>>110650There are so many connections made in Silver's head with only that one word. This poor mare... "Oh Blue..." He places a hoof on her cheek to steady her head, and look into her jade-colored eyes. "How long has it been like that?"
>>110651“Since I was a filly....”
*more sniffles*
>>110652Silver just wants to hold her for eternity. "Tell me about it, please. I may not be smart, nor silver tongued, but I know how to listen."
>>110654“My father didn’t exactly like that her daughter couldn’t kick clouds... he became kind of distant. My brother was always distant. Hostile, even.”
>>110655He nods, a picture starting to form in his head of the situation she was faced with: a filly, shunned constantly by two of the most influential ponies in her life, all because of something out of her control. It's not a stretch to see how something like that might lead, perhaps, to a feeling of inadequecy, like she would feel as if she could not do good enough. Or, that she felt as if
she was never good enough.
I'll be back in a short bit. My mom's in the hospital post-surgery, gonna visit her.
>>110657“.... I didn’t really feel like I got the affection I needed...”
Iron decides to get off the table, aiming to go outside the tavern.
(I have become weak and getting sloppier by every second I am here. I cannot stay here any longer.)
>>110662And....... Silver and Blue Skies are almost blocking the entrance, right outside hugging each other
>>110663Iron merely glances at the both of them before simply attempting to slip past the two, looking grim.
(What good am I?) he ponders to himself, considering all of the events at the bar and with Cauldron.
>>110664He has to move a bit to the side, but it’s possible. Skies does not see him, as she has a face full of floof
\r
>>110665He does so, of course. He needs some time to think, preferrably alone, where he won't sputter even more things to harm others unintentionally.
(I am only good at punching things. A stallion should be good at
all things, from fighting to cunning. How else can I reach stallionhood without those skills?)
Alright, it kind of looks like everypony except possibly Dark Star in the city group is going through some kind of emotional breakdown and crisis of confidence right now
>>110668Basically, yes.
Don't forget the monthly trio. They too aren't having either of those.
Unless you count Onyx and his surprise at Brie's plan.
>>110668Not entirely inaccurate description of the situation.>>110660"It would explain why you like to look pretty on outside for compliments..." He smiles at her. "And also why you are ravenous for affection and attention from those you are affectionate with."
>>110670"Uh huh" she says, slightly crying
"It's kind of cold outside, and the ground is icky... I want to sit down, but not out here"
>>110666A pony should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for Changelings.
>>110671Most of these things, Iron agrees he needs to learn. Some seem a bit off, considering his lack of knowledge on tech. This only enforces how much he needs to learn, and after failing so hard recently, he can't seem to catch a break.
So much so that it reinforces his need to go away, to avoid stagnation.
>>110671Silver nods. "We can most certainly head back inside. We could also head back to my room if you want to have some more privacy while we work through this. Or else, we could head anywhere else you would want. I just would not want to leave Dark Star alone if he is serious about doing recon tonight."
>>110672But can he clear out a nest of Griffins?
>>110673She sighs
"I guess we should look for Dark Star"
If he shows up
>>110674Silver strokes her cheek with a hoof. He looks reluctant to do so as he looks into her jade-colored eyes.
I do not want to let her go just yet...
>>110674Iron stops in his tracks.
(Hm... Perhaps this assignment may help me find that out. I need some venting and those griffins sound like guilt-free punching bags.)
He decides to go back to the table for now, hoping he doesn't cause mental armageddon all over again.
(Maybe I can still get Cauldron some extra money if she is up for it, too.)
>>110676Somewhere in those eyes, is her pain, and the belief that if she can just strike back at those who gave her pain, she can be at peace
>>110677Silver and Skies are still doing their thing. Dark Star is back in there somewhere
Iron would rather not get into another fight by all of that borderline love confession vibes over there with the polyamorous pegasus and her tools making him slightly ill, so he proceeds to go sit back down with Dark Star and hope they don't start shagging in public.
>>110678Silver knows how futile that belief is firsthoof.
This path you trot, vengence: you will find no peace in it. I know."I could sit here for eternity, just you and I..." He sighs. "I do wish we did not have to part just yet."
>>110681Can Iron go commit sudoku now?
>>110682With this, a slight joe comes into her eyes. A malign hope. Her mouth opens ever so slightly
Many mares would ask “why me? What seems so good about me?” But not Skies. She sees no point in looking a gift horse in the mouth
>>110684Is she trying to go in for the kiss or something?Silver smiles from this (mostly) pleasant change in mood. With a forehoof, he wipes Skies' bangs out of the way of her face to get a good look at her.
>>110685A long snoot, with medium grey skin, azure white coat that has been shampooed into feeling like a teddy bear, a straight mane of medium length that has never really been styled, and two big, almost shiny turquoise eyes that can look jade under some lighting conditions. All with an unsettling smile
>>110683Yes
>>110686So little flair to your response, too.
Rather tempting.
I'll call your bluff.
Iron stands up from the seats, going for the exit yet again.
>>110686"Hmm...
could we head back to my room, just for minute? We have not had moment alone all day."
>>110688"Quickly" she says
>>110687He does so
>>110688>>110689He obviously spot the duo again, knowing they're going for shagging and are still there.
(She will get what she deserves later.)
"Try to keep quiet, you two. I expect you do not want Star to know~"
He inmediately walks out, leaving them behind and actually go outside.
(As for me, I have to test my fate after all of this.)
>>110690Oddly enough, the lack of shagging on Silver's mind makes him confused about this statement. "Uh...thanks?"
>>110689"Right this way." Silver leads the way to his tavern room. It's quite apparent that Silver needs some new type of storage solution, considering how she sees the addition of the supplies he bought but didn't use today. "I apologize for mess. I do not have much space to store it all." At least the bed is clear for the ponies to sit on.
>>110691She looks around, and shrugs
“I’ve seen messy rooms before. What was it you wanted?”
>>110690“To know that we aren’t fighting any more?”
>>110693"I just wanted quiet moment together, little bit like what we were just doing. Except, now we are in more comfortable conditions." Silver sits down on the bed and pats next to him as an invitation to sit.
>>110693>>110691He does not care to answer, as he of course walks out on both of them to outside.
He decides to walk aimlessly around town.
(I need to find a tall spot to jump off of in order to see what my fate is.)
>>110694Skies has a.... skeptical look, but sits down next to him
“Okay”
>>110695Full moon, a cool breeze, and it’s a bit colder than it has been other nights
>>110696Iron feels the chills.
(They know it is time for judgement.)
Naturally, he scouts out a big building to jumpp off of. He must know if he is actually meant to keep going after all this self-inflicted pain he received.
>>110696"...okay,
slightly more comfortable conditions. It is certainly not as nice as your room at Grand Baltimare Hotel, at at least we are out of cold and yuck."
He turns to face her and opens his forelegs to her in an offer of a hug, similar to how they were before they arrived here.
>>110697That’s the thing about Baltimare. It doesn’t have the high rises of Manehattan or Bales, though there are some midriff buildings in the commercial area
>>110698Skies throws herself into hug
“It is warmer here...”
But skies herself is cold
[1d20-2 = -1]>>110699If that's the case, then I will roll to search for the tallest one out there!
Search check just to make it a bit harder on myself.
>>110700Good first sign. Dice are against it, it seems.
>>110701>>110700There’s a roof on top of a hotdog stand
>>110699And Silver is happy to warm her up with the excess of floof he has. He lays back into the bed until they're effectively in a cuddling position, with Blue as the little spoon. "As nice as living only few feet from bar is, I think having actual place to live with nice bedroom, excellent bathroom, and proper kitchen would be better." He gives the soft pegasus he's holding a squeeze. "Are you
sure you have no idea what housing costs in city?"
>>110702Sadly not enough.
He must go further.
Perhaps it can be done by doing some very risky stuff and if he survives, he solidifies his role as needed, but the job he's being offered is going nowhere.
He smiles madly.
(Maybe I could vandalize that rich neighborhood where Comte was again and see how far I can take it. That could be fun. Should be easy to follow since I traveled to it from that tavern.)
>>110703Blue backs into him. It’s like when you place a cold fluffy pillow, with a bit of resistance between your legs
“Oh, I don’t know what it costs. I’m hoping to get transferred out eventually”
>>110704Uh
>>110705The idea that she would leave makes him hold her against him tighter, like he doesn't want to let her go. "Oh? Where would you want to get transferred to?"
>>110705He has infinite time to do anything, so travelling times should not be a concern.
>>110706“Oh, I don’t know... I guess they will send me wherever the trouble is”
>>110708"Well, suppose they asked your preference: where would you want to be sent?"
>>110709“Back to Nimbusia... to reinstate minority rule”
>>110710"Your heart yearns for home, it seems...do Blackhooves have interest in Nimbusia, then?"
>>110711She sighs
“If they do... it’s not for the same reasons”
>>110712Silver plants a small kiss on Blue's ear while giving her a squeeze. "Mind sharing good memory of home?"
>>110713The ear twitches down, then back up in a little flop
"What is there to say? Tall, grass covered mountains. Playing with my old classmates in flower covered meadows. The hard faces on the citizen soldiers as they come back from maneuvers..."
>>110714"It sounds as lovely as always." He rests the bottom of his chin on the top of Blue's head. The quiet sound of his breathing is clear to the little spoon pegasus, who can feel his chest rise and fall like clockwork. "But you do not have any other stories to share?"
>>110715"I know what I did... I remember it well. How much of it I can really repeat... I don't know"
>>110716While he remains silent, she can feel him nod after a second. While she continues to be cuddled he begins to contemplate certain subjects that have been on his mind, the first that comes being that of Comte and what he was allowed to do.
>>110717Because that's exactly the kind of thing Silver wants to think about right now
>>110704Iron makes the horrifying discovery that everypony must make early in their lives: that they must suffer through existence a little while longer
>>110718Yes, very pleasant, I know. It doesn't take long for Silver to pose a question he's been meaning to ask her: "Blue, if you were giant, as in tallest giant that ever existed, and your legs began to rot out from under you, how long would it take your head to realize?"
>>110720"I think I'd take flight" she answers
>>110721That actually gets a laugh out of him. "Fair enough..." He takes it as a sign to change mental tracks, with him now appreciating the mare he's cuddling with now. "If you are anything to go off of, I think I might have to try this 'spa' thing, myself. Wow, you are soft..."
>>110723"Damn right I'm soft" she says, with her eyes closed, and she lightly stretches out her legs
"It's not a bad way to spend the afternoon"
>>110724Silver moves a round a little to give her the space needed for the stretching. "Well, perhaps on quiet day, we could go through spa together, partake in all of their services? You could show me first-hoof what it is all like." After a couple seconds, he adds: "I would buy, of course."
>>110725"Maybe. I'm not sure if Dark Star would like me going with another stallion"
>>110726"You think so?" Silver actually seems disappointed with that idea. "Would it be that different from, say, you and I going to see movie?"
>>110727"I don't know if he'd like that either"
>>110728"Aww..." He gives her a pleading look. "Come on, please? It sounds like it would be lot of fun, and we have not done anything like that together, yet."
>>110730"Well... I guess I can't resist those puppy dog eyes. Okay"
>>110731He nuzzles into his cuddle buddy. "Thank you, Blue!"
>>110732*poner is nuzzled* - presumably from an angle
She looks happier than when he first saw her outside
>>110733Silver would certainly hope so. He continues to revel in being in her presence, and the nice, quiet, calm atmosphere around them.
Everything is right with the world, in this moment. "I already can not wait, I must admit...perhaps if everything goes smoothly tomorrow, we might get chance to, then."
>>110734"It would of been tonight"
If Dark Star and a couple other essential people would have shown up. Reeee
>>110735Silver nods. "Unfortunately not, it seems, unless something happens soon."
Reeee indeed, my friend.
>>110736"Well... You've asked me questions... What about you?"
>>110735>>110736"There is silver lining, however: it means we get to spend more time together like this." He nuzzles into her neck.
>>110737Fuck, we posted at the same time. Sorry."You mean, for stories of my home and like?"
>>110738*poner neck is nuzzled*
>>110739"Sure... if you want to share"
>>110740Silver nods, finding no reason not to. "It was nice place. It was cool, clean. Soil would always feel cool and moist beneath your hooves, regardless of trotting along dirt roads in city or trekking across forests or meadows. In summer you could watch wheat fields sway in breeze coming from Middle Sea, and ponies would trot between towns to trade or work, or take train or take boat ride down river. In winter you would not see too many ponies outside as it was too cold, and you could not grow crops because ground itself would often freeze solid, but there was enchanting stillness about world at those times. Ancient forests of tall conifers, and pleasant meadows of flowers would be spread throughout countryside, only broken by occasional hill or marsh.
"In Petershoof, there was such variation between new and old parts of city that trotting from Docks, to Market, to Old Town, it felt like travelling between different cities. New buildings would be made of brick and mortar, but old were made of stone, timber, and thatch. In Old Town, especially, each building felt like it was part of some storied past of my people, with each having its own history. My father's smithy was in Old Town, but it was close enough to Market that travelling there was no hassle at all. Sometimes, when my father let me go for day, I would wander to Market and see what all different types of goods and toys they would have for sale in market stalls, both made in Severyana and from abroad, or I would go and visit travelling performers that would always be set up in market square. Even when there were none, there were always plenty of cabaret shows, theaters, orchestras, plays, and other displays of our culture around city. Most colts I would hang out with would try to sneak into cabaret showings to see dancing mares, but I always liked comedians they would have in cabaret, or magic shows. Then you had beautiful Orthodox churches, with their great domes of stone and bronze, and by Docks you could visit Peter and Pony Fortress, where Peter the Great himself layed first bricks of his city."
>>110741“That’s.... that’s kind of neat, actually. I can see that being second foalhood”
>>110741Silver nods again. "I thought it served very well for my first. I have many good memories from those days. It is good to be able to share them."
>>110743Reeee that was supposed to say “being a good foalhood”
“Yeah... I guess maybe I can see the value in friendship”
>>110744I am sorry, but I am too tired to be able to continue on. I need mah sleeps. Goodnight!
>>110718Ah ha! Knew it was a bluff!
Of course, Iron's previous actions never really happened. They happened in his
mind.
>>110747Go to your zeebfu, mang! No more delays!
>>110753I dunno~ That could nake him miss the group quest due to how long the [i]bonding[i/] is.
>>110747>>110755Check out hot singles in your area!
>>110755At this rate? Think you'll have time. Plus, you're already outside of the tavern.
>>110756On the one hand, your input is quite positive.
However, the image gives me more 'Nam flashbacks.
Not gonna stop the big boe now!
>>110718Iron suddenly gets this crazy idea: If he failed so hard and consecutively now, then he can't go lower than he currently is. Ergo, immense confidence boost.
(I think I can go see Cauldron now.)
Hustling in a jog pace, he trots back to Cauldron's apartment, like a big boulder rolling down a steep hill persecuting a careless explorer who set off the trap.
>>110757I’m afraid we scared off Dark Star>>110758“Hehehehehehehe”
“Hehehehehehehe”
“Hehehehehehehe”
>>110759>he trots back to Cauldron's apartment, like a big boulder rolling down a steep hill persecuting a careless explorer who set off the trap.>he trots back to Cauldron's apartment, like a big boulder... set off the trap>he trots back to... a... trap
>>110760Clever boy.
Can he do it tho? Real question there.
Pls no sudden 'mare' gangbang again
>>110744I apologize if I seem abnormally absent. I've been helping my mom out while she recovers.Silver smiles at her. "There were also plenty of museums dedicated to our history and those who made it. There was class trip we would always take every year when I was in school to learn about history of Severyana. Art, music, writing, poetry, philosophy. But what we really focused on were great leaders from our past: from Grand Prince Terrible Ice, who made first attempt to unite Northern Ponies under one banne, and was known for his contributions to art and culture, to Empress Catherine the Great, who helped build Severyana into empire to rival even Equestria, even forming colonies of our own in Vedina. And so many others, from our earliest days, all way to very last leader of free Severyana."
>>110770Oh no! The Serial Booper is back!
>>110770EUGEH!
Don't scare me like that, you big meanie!
>>110764“Huh... they taught you philosophy and poetry? Great leaders? I was under the impression that was unique to the Nimbusian general education”
>>110770Yes, yes... Boop the native pony
>>110773Aww... Guess I'll have to wait, then.
>>110773Dark Star's eyes unglaze and he regains some awareness.
he looks around the bar
>>110775ReeeeeeEverypony has left, it looks like
>>110776Technically, Iron is still there since he's only daydreaming from my last posts.
>>110773Silver shakes his head. "We had our own fair share of them, and we took pride in history and culture those ponies helped to make. Or, at least, we used to. I will admit, it has been while, and I am not so good with philosophy, so much of what I have learned has been forgotten...but that history, that I will carry with me forever."
>>110779She nods, as if understanding
“They emphasized philosophy. I liked Aristotle especially. But the history.... I can understand that. Xenophron and Leoneighdus...”
>>110776>>110777"I need to Stop Drinkin so much and get more sleep."
Dark star says to no pony in particular
>>110780"It is like discovering part of yourself that has been passed down through generations."
>>110781Iron nods.
"They do leave anypony quite down after taking it."
>>110782“Yes.... Yes.... Yes it is. It makes you feel like it’s not just you. Like you are a part of something even bigger that connects to those around you. Like you have actually been alive for centuries. Accomplished great things. Like you will live on even if you die...”
>>110783"where did everypony go?"
>>110785"Somewhere private, I heard. Probably on Silver's room," he answers.
>>110784Silver smiles at her. "There really is little that is worth more than ensuring you leave impact on story of this world, and of your people. Knowing that even if you may die, those you knew, loved, and left behind: they would carry your story on. There is no better way to achieve immortality."
>>110786"Private? What,Why?"
>>110787“Yes... No better way... No greater glory...”
She is starry eyed for a moment, staring off into the distance. Then she says
“Well... we have a job to do... better get back”
>>110789Silver nods, understanding but still privately a little disappointed. He releases his pegasus-shaped pillow and sits up. "I genuinely enjoyed that discussion, Blue. We should do that again some other time, when we are not so busy."
>>110790“Maybe...”
She seems mesmerized by distantly thoughts, but she gets up, off the bed, and heads to the door
>>110788Iron shrugs.
"I have no idea aside from both of them getting angry at eachother from recent events and Silver trying to fix it. Door is quite thin, so you may hear what is happening."
>>110791I wonder what she is thinking about. A telekinetic field wraps around the door know as Silver holds the door open for her.
>>110788>>110793>>110792After a time, Blue Skies, then Silver, can get through the door that is to your right when you enter the bar, and on the far side away from the booth they have chosen
>>110792"Thanks"
He Stands up and walks towards silver's room
>>110794>>110795He would most definitely meet them as they enter. "Ah, good you are finally awake."
>>110796"yea, i didn't get enough sleep last night. What we're you two doing in there?"
>>110794>>110795Iron remains silent.
>>110797“Well, Silver and I got in a fight, and he wanted to make up. We were outside, but the ground was icky and I wanted to sit down, and it was cold outside, so we went to his room. We talked briefly about our foalhoods and the like. It was a way of working things out before we left tonight
>>110797"We had bit of...argument, to put it lightly. We just needed minute to cool down, talk things out. We even ended up having very pleasant conversation about our foalhoods, history, and leaving mark on world."
>>110801>>110800Dark Star accepts this explanation
"What did you get into a fight about?"
>>110802Skies keeps silent, and looks over to Silver skeptically, as if afraid the fight will start up again
>>110803Silver looks back at her, and waves it off: she's fine to go ahead, he won't get mad.
>>110804>>110802>>110803Skies looks back at Dark Star
"Iron held me captive. When I tried to break free, Silver thought I was attacking him... or something, and yelled at me for it"
>>110806Dark Star Frowns slightly
"Iron Did What?"
>>110802>>110806Silver nods. "Since they had been fighting all day, I simply grew tired of it, and snapped."
>>110806>>110807Oh boy, here we goIron awaits more word bashing.
>>110807"It was a hug at first, but he held me a bit longer than I wanted"
>>110808"i see."
>>110810"Are you alright?"
He looks worried about her
>>110811"I am fine. I can manage"
Far off in the changeling lands, Onyx for some reason feels like he just lost half of his brain cells.....
At the bar where the other members of the party are, a dark purple bat pony with a dark blue mane strolls in, gazing over the patrons as if she's looking for somepony.
>>110811>>110812"No harm done." Silver gives Blue a pat on the shoulder. "At least now we all have something to learn from this experience."
>>110813What a myste
>>110813>>110814>>110815With what I just typed? I think I'd have to agree.
>>110813Midnight Lily visited the Baltimare police department asking about joining for part time work
Maybe. Or something like that. They told her that they do not take part time employees and the certification process takes months, but they referred her to the Civilian Governate, as they accept part time work. She went to the Celestial Gulf Insurance building in Downtown, the new building of the Governate, where they were already closing for the day. They said that they were indeed looking for help and referred her to the Security Department. They mentioned a number of tasks that were needed and referred her to Investigations, who referred her to Immigration about a specific task they needed help for. They told her that the specific task in question had actually been outsourced to the Black Hooves. So she went down to the Grand Baltimare Hotel about 6 blocks away, which actually (conveniently) stays open later. There, she talked to a receptionist, who referred her to recruitment, who said that somepony had actually already taken that, and left Midnight Lily alone for a period of about five minutes as he rushed in and about and looked through files in his office. Eventually, he said that a pony known as "Blue Skies" was actually leaving on it that night.
Fuck. Not great Luck. But she's come this far, so why give up now. She asks him where her office is, and she goes there. But she's not there. So she asks some ponies where she can be found. A receptionist has met her but doesn't know her. A guard knows her but hold his tongue. Eventually, some minotaur guy with a submachine gun in the lobby says
"Yeah, she has this new deputy. I think she tries to organize helpers at the East Side Tavern"
So she heads there in the hope she is there, and thankfully Midnight Lily knows the area well enough to get there... after asking directions only once.
Eventually, she comes upon the tavern, a brick building of two floors with a brownish facade on the first floor, and that is on the corner of a small block. She goes through the front door and.... let's see. A grey pony at the table. A pair of unicorns in the back, looks like a couple. Then sitting in a booth near the door, a dark Grey Earth Pony, a light grey Earth Pony, a dark red Earth Pony with black mane, and a really light blue pegasus with darker blue mane. That's... that might be her? Seems closest to the description. Well, this job ain't going to take itself, so best try her luck
>>110814\r
>>110817Whatta precedent. Who knew more PCs could be implemented into the same story?
>>110814>>110816Oof>>110817>The only blue pegasusYeah, that's her.
She strolls over to the mare.
"Are you Blue Skies?"
>>110820The mare had her back turned to the Bat Pony. Then when she says that, the pegasus turns her face to her, and gives an expression of shear surprise. Then she turns her whole body towards her, and gives an uncertain look
"Yes... I am she. Who is asking?"
>>110820I guess you talked with GM about it?
>>110819It's a long story>>110821"Nice to meet you. I am Midnight Lily. The Civilian Governate sent me to help upon the quest. And then your office sent me here."
Skies notices the mare is wearing a amulet in the shape of Luna's cutie mark.
[1d20+7 = 25]>>110823The mare looks up and down the bat pony, examining her general appearence, demeanor, and everything. She herslef seems as if she feels weird, and certainly was not expecting this. Her coat looks like its been washed soft, and her mane washed to the softness of silk. Like she's trying a bit too hard to look pretty. Her mane cut is midway between feminine and butch, slightly tomboyish at medium length. Simple and straight. Her cutie mark is a sword... or knife? Anyways, its between a pair of golden Pegasus wings. She is wearing nothing, literally nothing, although a bag and a jacket that maybe belong to her are lying in the booth
"So you did... Is this for 33 Hoebuck?"
Also, sense motive
>>110823The unicorn next to her takes notice of the amulet. "It is good Goddess you follow."
>>110823Iron keeps silent, of course.
He doesn't want to screw the pooch again, unless it's mission talking time to offer Cauldron's potions at a price.
>>110824Her motives are true, she is not lying to the mare. Skies can notice that Midnight's cutie mark is a shield with a knife stuck in it.
"Yes, 33 Hoebuck"
>>110825"Thank you, I like to think so as well."
>>110823"Oh Great another Bat."
>>110827At this point, she becomes a little more comfortable
"Yes... 33 Hoebuck... Do you know the essential information. We were intending to do at least a probe tonight."
>>110828Skies whispers into Dark Star's ears
"I know, right? They look really freaky to me... We didn't have those in the Riverlands...
>>110828She slowly turns her head towards Dark Star with unblinking eye.
"And what, pray tell, is so wrong with bats?"
If she's angry it doesn't show it, instead seeming curious.
>>110828The unicorn gives Dark Star a light thump on the foreleg like a father would give their son when they speak out of turn in public.
>>110829"I was able to read a copy of the dossier. I just hope my assets can be well used."
Her bat ears twitch, though she shows no sign of hearing Skies.
>>110832"Well... That is good, I guess. And what are those assets?"
>>110831Skies narrows her eyes, and levels her ears at Silver after he does this
>>110826Silver trots over to Iron with a question on his mind. "Iron, do you think we might be able to recruit Cauldron along for this mission? We could use somepony with healing experience that goes beyond just patching wounds, and with her current situation she might have information or ties that would help us in our endeavor."
>>110828>>110834>>110831>>110832Iron perks his ears up.
"Are healing items necessary for this?"
>>110834"Protection. I'm not the best at helping on the offense, but I put up a pretty good defense if I say so myself."
>>110838Is she a fighter?
>>110837“Only if you get hit”
She twists her mouth a little, and looks at Iron almost inquisitively
“So for you, probably”
>>110838She throws a single leg up in a shrug
“Well... I guess if we need to hedge our bets...”
>>110841Oh, well fuck me. I guess you're the healer then.Darn it. I wanted to get money for Cauldron.
>>110842>>110841Gentlemen. Gentlemen! There will be plenty of damage for both options to be viable
>>110830"The Last Bat i met was, how can i put this nicely? a few wheat bales short of a harvest."
>>110831Dark Star looks at him with a confused look on his face.
>>110840>>110837>>110836"I do some healing myself actually, though I'd prefer if the ponies I was protecting never got hit at all."
>>110844"Oh, one of those bats. Yeah, there's a few with some loose gears flying around."
>>110843I hope so. Cauldron needs the money to help her escape/make her impervious to getting jailed.>>110845Iron hums.
"Well, if you need a backup, there is a good potion master I can fetch potions for. A bit pricey but they are guaranteed to work better than most others."
>>110844Dark Star rewording his statement seems to help. He just was worried about manners.
>>110845"That would be most helpful. I hope we might avoid such situations where it is necessary, but if it is, let us hope that I will be only pony you will need to heal tonight."
>>110847"We can pray that that will be the case."
She smiles, obviously finding herself in good company.
>>110853>>110847“Well if we are getting shot at or stabbed, then something has probably gone wrong”
>>110853The unicorn shares in her smile, and even offers her a hoofshake. "The name is Silver Sword. It is pleasure to meet you."
>>110854Iron is confused.
"So do I need the armor?"
>>110857“Maybe something lighter, if you gave the time. Or maybe not”
>>110859>>110855>>110844>>110853"So is there a need for potions at all, then?"
>>110860“You just asked about
armor”
>>110854"Good to know"
>>110855"It's a pleasure to meet you Silver, I don't know if you heard but I'm Midnight Lily"
>>110860"They might be useful if I cannot use my healing magic."
>>110862He extends his hoof
"My name is Dark Star. im not actually a zigger."
>>110862"I heard, but thank you. It is nice to have another member of team, especially one as well-mannered as yourself."
>>110860"We might need some, but there are others we could make use of she might have access to. Potions to hide our tracks, make us invisible, or even make us temporarily smaller."
>>110861Iron deadpans at Skies.
"If armor is involved, it means getting hurt. Potions are relevant when getting hurt, too."
>>110862He turns to the batmare, smiling.
"Excellent. What sort of potions are you into: Many small ones or less of them with more healing potential?"
>>110865He nods at Silver's suggestions.
"I think I have an idea of what they could cost, depending on the item offered. Any specific number of them?"
>>110863"You just... Look like... One?"
He giggles a bit before shaking his hoof as well
>>110865"Oh! Well, thank you. That's nice of you to say."
>>110866"Potions aren't my specialty.... What would you say?"
>>110866"We should have at least enough for everypony to have two, if she can fill that kind of order."
>>110866“Ask your questions, but don’t act as if you’ve been asking the sane question again and again when you switch betweenness sentences”
>>110869Iron is confused.
"Alright?"
>>110868Iron jots it down mentally.
"You mean two of everything, even healing potions, or do you prefer some more in that category?"
>>110867He hums.
"Silver, me and maybe you can take quite a beating, so I would recommend stronger potions for the three of us. Skies and Star can go for the lower end of potions since they should be less exposed to weaponsfire. Any number in particular you would wish to take? I suggest 3, just to ensure you never run out in the mission for a modest sum of 900 bits for the 3 pack. Sounds right to you? Less potent potions are 50 bits for each, but they heal less each."
>>110867"i had my coat dyed at a spa. its a really nice place."
He Smiles
"you should use the sauna there."
>>110870Her eyes almost burst from her head upon hearing the price
"I h-have 50 bits..."
>>110871"Maybe I'll check it out some time. Thank you"
>>110873Iron nods, smiling.
"Oh do not worry. This is a group mission so we are going to help eachother out when paying, of course. Silver and Star should have some to help you out."
But he nods.
"Of course, it is your choice how much do you want to spend for safety. It is merely scouting after all."
>>110870"Two potions we would use to hide, per pony. I do not know about healing potions, exactly, but it sounds like you have that figured out."
>>110873"Hmm. Well, we will see what it all costs when we arrive. I might be able to cover cost of your potions for you. It does us no good if one of us is less effective in mission due to lack of supplies."
>>110876>>110875"I'll consider it, but thank you for the offer."
>>110829He whispers back
I've seen them around before. but i've never really talked to many."
>>110876Iron hums.
"I would wager those would cost 300 bits each to make you invisible, but I am not sure if her repertoire includes it. The potions to make somepony small sound a bit easier to do, so I think it is 250 bits each."
He looks a bit giddy.
"So you want to go for 3 moderately strong potions then. Good to know."
>>110869>>110871He turns to the couple.
"Is this well for both of you? Same amount of less potent potions or do you want to get more out of the magic? Maybe more of the less powerful ones? Name it and I shall fetch it."
>>110878He looks a bit confused.
"Does that mean you will buy some? Keep in mind you can customize your order to take out things you deem unnecessary. No need to be shy. It is to help ensure the sucess of our mission."
>>110878Silver whispers to Midnight:
"He is coltfriend to potionmaker. He has been acting like salespony all night, to drum up business for her."
>>110881She whispers back
"Oh, I see">>110880"Maaaaybe, like I said, I don't have very many bits..."
>>110880"Sounds fine to me."
>>110880She shakes her head
“I’ll go in dry”
>>110882Iron shakes his head, smiling.
"It is important for all to be safe and equipped. A mission can fail for even the tiniest of mistakes. I suppose you do not want that to happen, do you? Keep in mind, the others are always eager to help a fellow companion out. No strings attached. No need to be repaid in any alloted amount of time at all."
>>110883He nods.
"Excellent."
>>110884He looks at Skies.
"Are you sure you do not want at least some health potions in case you get shot? They are merely 50 bits each, which should heal most of your health in your case as insurance. Simply one would be enough in your case, due to your dexterous nature."
>>110886"Can She Make potions that will let me breathe fire?"
>>110887Iron shakes his head.
"Not that I can think of, sadly. There is one that makes you temporarily have a tree coat for extra defense without weight penalty if you want it, but you should be fine with Silver's suggestion."
>>110887>>110890Silver suddenly lets out a laugh. "You could always just use bottle of strong alcohol and lighter."
>>110891Dark Star puts his hoof to his hin in thought
"that might work."
>>110891He chuckles.
"I suppose that can work, too."
Meanwhile, calculations are made.
(So 3 sets of 2 potions of Invisibility
600*3, 2 Pass without Trace [100*3 and 2 Shrink Person
600*3, as well as 2 sets of 3 Cure Moderate Wounds
900*2and 3 Cure Light Wounds for Star
150. Deduct my buying and Cauldron would get... 2450 bits from the others. Decent numbers.)
He nods to himself.
(We'll see if the others maybe go for a little more.)
>>110893thats quite a bit
maybe she'll touch the peen
>>110894After what I assume Iron confessed to her, this could help him a lot in actually getting his words out without fear of rejection.>>110882>>110884He looks at the other two ponies who haven't decided on buying anything.
"Alright. I have most of the orders ready. Are you absolutely sure you do not want anything at all? Every potion count to increase our chances of a successful mission."
>>110895Disclaimer: You indeed can reject this offer. Iron is only making sure you are sure about not having any potions.If, of course, the issue is related to accepting the potions.
>>110896where did everyone go?
>>110897I'm here, just watching it storm like the dickens out my window.
>>110897I have no idea. Maybe talking in Discord to either accept or reject this thing?Perhaps this batponer is simply a throwaway so maybe GM thinks I may be taking advantage to get even more money from giving the poner who'll never appear again some potions she'll never use.
>>110899maybe they fell asleep?
>>110900>>110898Maybe the Ancapian, but not GM.I guess I'll go to bed, too in any case.Soon, we'll reach Group Questing status!Silver! You can accompany Iron to fetch the potions if you want to, simply to see her but not much else. Elsewise she may get suspicious of the nature of the mission.
>>110901Eh...okay? Sleep well, then.
>>110902I am betting Skies will want Iron to have an escort in case they run off with the money, so you'll be a fallback. Don't be worried.
>>110906
I saw you
I was going to comment something about where I was thinking of adding ghosts to the story... but nevermind
>>110906>>110907Spooky missing ghost comments, Ooooo!
>>110907Aw fuck. I left it up for 3 hours and
only when I decided I would delete it to leave some posting space I get responded to,
God dangit.
Ghost exorcism mission when?
>>110909Who ya gonna call?!
Is it just me, or did they buff the hell out of the Jaki-Clan?
>>110916Maybe? I have no idea.
Does anypony want to play today?
>>110916I don’t know. I tried to play Yakyakistan once after the Brother’s Feud update. I found that fighting Jakistan required grinding with tiny infantry-only units as they had too many units to go around. I thought, “fuck that,” and never played it again
>>110918I am.
Iron is currently asking Skies again if she at least wants to buy a small Cure Light Wounds potion as insurance, while awaiting the Batponer 2.0's response to his insistence of at least buying something for herself.
>>110918I'm always up for it.
Used to be I'd never see them win the Brothers' Feud. Now Yakyakistan can't win for crap.
>>110919If by “buy,” you mean, “receive for free” then yes.
>>110920Any country that requires a war advancing little 6 width infantry only divisions with no hope of going around the enemy is hardly worth playing. It’s boring as hell placing the game on five speed and watching the green arrow stay the sane for half a minute, just to go back to red, all the while watching your infantry equipment deficit slowly grow.
The New Mareland MARESOC path is ruined for that reason, despite it being the funniest meme focus tree in the entire mod. There is no way to do it anymore without doing the civil war. And fuck that civil war. You can’t even get around it with console commands. Harmonic Changelings is kind of close to being on the same level, but at least their is room to maneuver. Most of the Equestrian Civil war states avoid this problem, but fighting Aztlan as the Disciples... it’s a pain in the ass
>>110928REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
>>110927Hello. I think Iron is shilling his not-girlfriend’s potion making, or something
>>110929Ah yes
>>110895"I believe I'll be fine for noe, but if things go wrong this time I may buy some next time."
>>110919"Does She Have any Cat's Grace Potions?"
>>110926Darn, got caught up in things.Iron nods.
"Maybe I can get one for you, then. A practice run."
>>110932He nods to the batpony.
>>110932Iron shrugs.
"Maybe. How many would you like?"
>>110933She nods, liking this
>>110934Iron smiles.
"Very well. I will add your trying run order into the list."
(An extra 50 for Cauldron still. Maybe she will like it.)
>>110933"If she has any i would like 2."
>>110936>>110931Iron nods.
"Alright. Everything is settled."
(Extra 600 from Dark Star.)
He looks at the two buyers.
"Alright, the total payment required on your end is 3050 bits."
>>110937“
Three thousand bits?” Skies says with surprise and a hint of incredulity
>>110938Iron nods.
"Yes. Magic in a bottle is not cheap. It seems to be the standard on the market, as far as I know."
He points at Silver's horn.
"Seeing how Silver does not have the capacity of do most of the potions on offer while having the tools to do so, I would say it is quite the time consuming and draining process for the average unicorn."
>>110937Silver lets out a whistle. "Well...I suppose I will not be able to afford house anytime soon..."
Where did everypony go? Anyways, I intend to get the final part of the dossier out tonight, and then once all preparations are done, the actual quest can begin
>>110937>>110943"There Goes my Car..."
>>110945>>110943Iron blinks, then waves a hoof.
"I bet there will be a big treasure when we take out this underground slave camp. Illegal business always have a lot of bits passing hoofs."
Iron then extends a hoof out.
"Do you accept? If so, I would like to have it in a pouch, please."
>>110944Present, just waiting
>>110947Skies looks kind of awkward
>>110949Iron is confused about Skies' current feelings.
(Did she agree to pay for anything or my lack of bit pouch threw her off?)
>>110947Silver sighs after a couple silent seconds, not entirely believing him, but placing a
big roll of notes in Iron's hoof totalling 3,050 Bits anyways. "No pouch, sorry."
>>110951Iron is a bit surprised.
"It is not 3050 each, you know."
>>110947"Forget the 2 cats grace potions."
>>110952"I know. I am paying for it all."
>>110950"Sure.... there will totally be plenty of money in an abandoned church, a sweatshop and an old jail..."
>>110953He nods.
"Total is now reduced to 2450 bits."
>>110954Iron, hearing Dark Star's claim, takes off 600 bits and passes it back to Silver, incredulous, taking the rest.
"If you say so, Silver."
>>110956Iron is a bit deflated, but nevertheless is confident about his claims.
"I have a feeling."
He extends his neck upwards.
"Well! I have the money, now I got to pass it to the potion maker."
He stands up.
"Should we meet up here again and start the mission from here or do I join up at the mission location?"
>>110957Silver pockets it. "I only hope these potions do not disappoint..."
>>110957"Lets meet up back here."
>>110957>>110959"Or we could go with you to meet this Cauldron."
>>110960Iron is a bit uneasy.
"The meet up point is going to be a bit crowded with everypony."
(Aside from letting Cauldron see Skies and possibly recognizing her, maybe.)
But he points a hoof.
"I can let one of you come with, if you want to."
Feel free to insist if it's what everyone wants to do, including Ancaper.
>>110961"It would be far faster, easier, and simpler to keep everypony together. And, since we are counting on these potions, it would be nice to meet zebra making them."
>>110962Did Iron say the potion maker is his would-be girlfriend?
>>110963He told Silver, at least.
>>110961That's Mr. AnCap to you."If you'd like I can come with you, but I understand if you'd prefer me to stay."
>>110962"But Silver here makes a fair point."
>>110961>>110959>>110962>>110965"I still don't see why you want a
Zebra as a marefriend"
>>110962"I gotta run down to the weapon shop to pick up my bow. does anypony need anything while i'm headed that way?"
>>110962Iron hums in thought.
"I cannot. It would look too suspicious to get 6 ponies crowding a random zebra. You can come with, since your word is basically gospel, then we go back to this bar with the goods. Too many ponies at once could spook her into hiding."
He extends a hoof.
"What do you say, Silver?"
>>110963I think he did some posts ago.>>110965Forgive me Sir Ancapon for my rude behaviour.He nods.
"You can stay here."
>>110966Knowing Skies isn't exactly a paragon of virtue, he simply looks at her knowingly.
"I do not blame you. None of them have wings as far as I know."
He chuckles.
"But she is worth it in my eyes."
>>110967He shakes his head.
>>110967"Hmm...well,
if you are headed that way, I could use dagger, or shortsword. Something concealable. I will pay you back after."
>>110968"If Star is going to split up anyways, then I suppose so." He shakes on it.
>>110967"I'm fine, thank you for offering."
>>110968"That is fine"
Midnight takes a seat at the table
this is a violation of my NAP
>>110969"I'll get it taken care of. and don't worry about paying me back."
>>110969He smiles.
"Excellent. You can carry your end of the money, then."
With that, the 2450 bits are passed back to Silver.
"Keep it safe."
He stands up, gesturing Silver to follow.
>>110970Iron smiles, and says without a hint of irony.
"Good. You can compare wings with Skies while we are gone. She likes flying and wings."
>>110967Skies rubs herself against Dark Star
"You could get me something..."
>>110968Skies looks at Iron, still not quite understanding, but sort of backing off. She is hanging onto Dark Star, who entirely looks like a zebra
>>110972Skies pulls out a single wing with her right foreleg, though her leg is not long enough to stretch it out all the way. As if to say "I win"
>>110972And thus, Silver does so, putting his life in the hooves of the crazy-haired native.
>>110973Iron chuckles at her display.
"See you two later. I will be sure to get your potion, Skies."
(Sometimes, I have this feeling she is me in female form in a way.)
>>110974>>110973He then gestures Silver out and into The Watering Hole (TM)!
>>110975That is quite the distance to travel. Silver looks at the building they enter. "Hmm...I think I have been here, before."
>>110976Well yeah.Iron stares at the building.
"Oh it is. A good thing she told me how to get here from the tavern or I would have been lost."
>>110973He enters the building without worry.
(I wonder if she will appear right behind me or I should ask the barkeep for an audience with her because of the horned fellow. We shall see.)
>>110973Dark Star smiles
"And what would you like?"
>>110977"So, where is your potionmaster zebra marefriend, exactly?"
>>110979He looks at Silver.
"She is quite the sneakster, so you will probably never see it coming. She might be about to poke your snout at this very second and you would not know it."
>>110980Silver rubs the tip of his snootendootle, half believing that what he says is going to come true.
>>110973Midnight's snoot scrunches and she flaps her bat wings out.
>>110981He chuckles.
"No need to be scared. She is quite gentle."
>>110978"Oh, maybe a light cross bow... and a long knife. Like a very long knife... or even a short short..."
She rubs against him like a cat
>>110976>>110977From the outside, the Watering Hole is a wooden two story building in the center of a block of buildings, with several windows on the upper level and at least one boarded up, and a wooden patio roof that extends out from between the second floor and the first covering the entrance and the area closest to the building, and is propped up by a few wooden timbers. The door is partly open, and from within the simple unpainted wooden structure, a loud noise of music exudes - is that that dreadful Jazz - and a bussel of creatures comes in, out, and hangs around in the bar, talking loudly. Mostly ponies, with some other creatures. Going inside it is even louder and livelier, with a live band playing somewhere over in the back. There is a large, burly Diamond Dog with a spiked collar on his neck, drinking a big mug of beer alongside some spotted grey and black earth pony with spiked hair
No Cauldron yet
>>110982Skies scrunches her nose, and raises her wings in full from tip to tip. Glorious Azure White Feathers that have some kind of oil or conditioner placed on them very recently
>>110975That would explain why the two can't stand each other...
>>110983>>110984Still, Silver looks around him for the mystery zeeb, as well as taking note of the various sights and sounds around him. "So, Jazz, huh? This kind of music they play here?"
>>110984"That i can do."
He hugs her
"i better get going now."
>>110984No, Skies does not scrunch her nose. She gives an innocuous look like in the pic
>>110985It's with the instruments of Jazz, to be sure. Almost like what you'd hear in a far away desert cantina
>>110986*poner is hugged*
>>110985>>110984He gleefully takes in the admittedly more advanced music in store for him, slightly walking on the beat.
"Is this what it is called? Some exotic name."
He ponders for a bit.
(I think I have seen those two before.)
He approaches the Diamond and Pony duo, turning stoic.
"Have you seen Black Cauldron around?"
>>110984"Oh bite me..."
Midnight crosses her hooves and stares angrily at the pegasus.
>>110987He heads to the weapon shop via taxi
>>110987>>110988"Yes, I suppose 'exotic' is term for it..." He watches from the sidelines as Iron apparently chats with some friends of his...or co-workers, if his stoic expression is anything to go off of.
>>110988The Pony and the Diamond Dog turn around, and look almost offended that Iron would come up to them
"Who are you, native?" asks the large, burly diamond dog in a voice that seems to belong to smaller creature
>>110989Skies looks back at the web-winged pony with her wings still spread proudly, tilts her head down slightly, then gives a grin that seems a bit malign
"Is biting the beginning of Courtship for you night ponies?"
>>110990Uh.... which weapon shop does Dark Star shop at?
\r
>>110992Without skipping a beat, he answers with a still face.
"Iron."
(Seems they do not know me. I may have inadvertendly entered into a fight, unless word spread around of my deeds as a criminal or they know a pony who saw me and all that.)
>>110992"I, what? NO"
She looks flustered, and confused.
>>110992the one he got his revolvers from
>>110995She laughs lightly, like a triumphant giggle, then switches subjects
"Tell me batty, what brought you along here?"
>>110996Uh.... yeah... I completely remember who he bought his revolvers from more than half a year ago
>>110997Now I'm getting spooped.
>>110997i remember it just as well as you then
>>110997"A job and a desire to help other ponies. What brought you here if I might be so bold?"
New thread everyone.
Check the /vx/ main page.